CALIFORNIA DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS IS OWNED BY MIKE AND MARLA KNAUS FROM QUINTER, KANSAS!&nbsp; 

THEIR PRODUCT COMES FROM CALIFORNIA AND IS THIS YEAR'S CROP!&nbsp; THEY HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 7 YEARS AND STRIVE TO BRING YOU QUALITY DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS!

California Dried Fruit and Nuts WILL BE SELLING AT THE WHISKEY CREEK BANQUET ROOM (3203 VINE, USE THE SOUTH BACK DOOR) ON NOVEMBER 10 &amp; 11.&nbsp; 

COME AND GET YOUR GOODIES FOR THE THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS!&nbsp; 

They HAVE SOME NEW PRODUCTS THIS YEAR!&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698773520907.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>CALIFORNIA DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS IS OWNED BY MIKE AND MARLA KNAUS FROM QUINTER, KANSAS!&nbsp; THEIR PRODUCT COMES FROM CALIFORNIA AND IS THIS YEAR'S CROP!&nbsp; THEY HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 7 YEARS AND STRIVE TO BRING YOU QUALITY DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS!California Dried Fruit and Nuts WILL BE SELLING AT THE WHISKEY CREEK BANQUET ROOM (3203 VINE, USE THE SOUTH BACK DOOR) ON NOVEMBER 10 &amp; 11.&nbsp; HOURS ARE 9:00 AM TO 6:00 PM!&nbsp; COME AND GET YOUR GOODIES FOR THE THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS!&nbsp; They HAVE SOME NEW PRODUCTS THIS YEAR!&nbsp; You won't want to miss it!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698773621931.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Mayor of Russell to proclaim city as a 'Purple Heart City'

By&nbsp; TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Students at Victoria High School scored below state averages on state assessment tests for 2022 and 2023, whereas the eighth-grade students fared somewhat better.

The State Department of Education issued a report card for the 2022 and 2023 school years, showcasing the academic performance of students both at Victoria Junior-Senior High and across the state.

The report card shows test scores for math, English language arts and science. The Kansas assessment results are reported across four levels.

Level one stipulates that a student possesses limited ability to understand and utilize the skills necessary for success after graduation. Level two represents a basic understanding, level three signifies an effective understanding, and level four indicates an excellent comprehension of the subject, according to the Kansas State Department of Education.

In the 2022-2023 school year for math, 52.63 percent of students between ninth and 12th grade fall under having limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 36.84 percent of students have a basic understanding, and 10.52 percent show an effective ability to understand.

Fewer students statewide fell in the lower two levels on their math tests.

The state-wide performance for math in the same grade levels consists of 45.61 percent of students showing limited ability, 33.33 percent having a basic understanding and 13.71 percent having an excellent understanding.

Less than 10 students at Victoria High School demonstrate an excellent understanding of math, whereas 7.33 percent of high school students across Kansas fall into that category for math excellence.

Students at the high school show better performance in English than they do in math for 2022-2023.

47.36 percent of students show limited ability to understand English, 36.84 percent have a basic understanding and 15.78 percent of students possess an effective ability to understand, according to the report. Less than 10 students proved to have an excellent understanding in the school year.&nbsp;

More Victoria high school students also fall in the lowest performing level on English test scores compared to the state numbers.

State performance of high school students for English in the school year includes 35.77 percent of students showing a limited ability to understand, 37.46 percent having a basic ability, 21.67 percent possessing an effective understanding and 5.07 percent being excellent in the subject.

Science has the most students with limited skills at Victoria Junior High.

In the 2022-2023 school year, 76.47 percent of students have a limited understanding of science based on test scores. 17.64 percent of students have a basic understanding and 5.88 percent have an excellent understanding. Less than 10 students at the high school have an effective ability to understand science.

To protect student privacy, when a subgroup has fewer than 10 students the data is not displayed.&nbsp;

Victoria High was separated by 30 percentage points compared to the state numbers when looking at students falling in the lowest tier for science in 2023.

For 2023, 43.54 percent of high school students in the state had a limited ability to understand science, 27.54 percent had a basic understanding, 17.86 percent had an effective understanding and 11.03 percent showed excellence in understanding, according to the state report card.

Reports on the eighth-grade level at Victoria Junior High were better in some subjects, according to the state report card.

In the 2022-2023 school year, 23.07 percent of eighth-grade students at Victoria Junior High showed limited ability to understand science. 46.15 percent had a basic understanding, 23.07 percent showed an effective ability to understand and 7.69 percent were excellent in the subject.

48.72 percent of all eighth graders in Kansas showed a limited ability to understand science, 28.57 percent had a basic understanding, 15.3 percent proved to be effective at understanding and 7.4 percent had an excellent understanding in the school year.

For eighth-grade students at Victoria Junior High, less than 10 students showed an excellent understanding of English in the same school year.

Some students may be excluded from the reporting because of small class size because of state efforts to protect student privacy.

15.38 percent of eighth-grade students at the high school had a limited understanding of English while 61.53 percent had a basic understanding and 23.07 percent had an effective understanding of the subject.

Eighth-grade students in the state of Kansas consisted of 2.85 percent of students having an excellent ability to understand English. 17.93 percent had an effective ability to understand, 42.27 percent had a basic understanding and 36.93 percent were limited in understanding.

In Victoria, less than 10 students showed an excellent understanding of math at the high school in 2022-2023.

46.15 percent of students had a limited ability to grasp the subject, 7.69 percent had a basic understanding and 46.15 percent showed an effective understanding of math.&nbsp;

Across the state in the same school year, 47.74 percent of eighth-grade students had a limited understanding of math, 29.43 percent had a basic understanding, 17.85 percent were effective at the subject and 4.96 percent were excellent&nbsp;

The latest report of postsecondary success for Victoria Junior High is from 2021. The success rate is 59.1 percent, the effective rate is 56.5 percent and the graduation rate is at 95.7 percent.&nbsp;

The graduation rate average across five years is 95 percent, the average success rate is 61 percent and the effectiveness average is 58 percent between 2017 and 2021.

The Kansas Department of Education considers post-secondary success based on a student meeting one of four criteria within two years of high school graduation. A student must achieve one of these four outcomes:

• Earned an approved certification during high school • Attained a postsecondary certificate • Obtained a postsecondary degree • Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduation

A closer look at the graduation rate will show a slight decrease from 2021 to 2022 at the high school but still above the graduation average for Kansas.

At the state level, the four-year graduation rate in 2021 was 89.3 percent and 89.8 percent in 2022.&nbsp;

The last years Kansas administered state-level history, government and social studies assessments were in 2017 to 2018.

For the start of the 2022-2023 school year, a new history, government, and social studies classroom-based assessment was mandatory for students in at least grades four and seven. However, the results from this assessment were not included in the report card.

All of the current members of the Victoria USD 432 Board of Education were contacted for comment about the state report card. Some did not respond. The rest referred the Hays Post back to the superintendent for comment.

The Hays Post contacted Victoria Superintendent Kimberly Woolf. She declined to comment for this story.

The Hays Post sent questionnaires to all the candidates who are running for seats on the Victoria USD 432 school board.&nbsp;

Candidates were asked what they think the school district should do to improve student test scores and academic performance.

"I don’t advocate for making testing easier, but instead for making teaching more effective. Effective teachers make the students better, and better students do better things," candidate Jake Hunter said.

Candidate Haley Gagnon said, "The board should take heed of the teachers's suggestions and concerns when it comes to these issues because they are the ones with the education and experience to lead our students to academic success."&nbsp;

Candidate Tammy Lee Schumacher said, "A major requirement is hiring more paras&nbsp;per capita of students in our school system, especially to support those children that have special scholastic needs."

Not all candidates returned responses to the Hays Post questionnaire. Links to responses for those who did are below.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/59c70adf-b54c-4c33-85be-44c10e7d6af2">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Gregory Sander</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c3308acd-0982-4e55-8fa4-678d8f2568af">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Matt Orr</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b2209a41-cbd4-4d63-a87c-c7617ad4a02f">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Terry Dinkel</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c3a5c688-2db2-40c2-a2d9-c3b584501c9d">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Janea Dinkel</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e2623634-577d-4c48-8273-1a211292b447">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Tammy Lichter</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/af7c4939-32d8-46b0-a9be-fd97da4cea92">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Haley Gagnon</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0d3c7f07-6255-4d75-801f-73a1f45b8c63">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Jake Hunter</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6a0cac8-db01-44d4-90bc-5c6c6800c847">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Tammy Lee Schumacher</a>

Other candidates who will appear on the ballot include&nbsp;Brenton Hoffman,&nbsp;Douglas Kuh and&nbsp;Morgan Pfeifer.&nbsp;

Election Day is Tuesday. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

To find your polling location,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">click here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699057737318.jpeg" alt="Victoria High School" />
 <figcaption>Victoria High School</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp; TONY GUERRERO Hays PostStudents at Victoria High School scored below state averages on state assessment tests for 2022 and 2023, whereas the eighth-grade students fared somewhat better.The State Department of Education issued a report card for the 2022 and 2023 school years, showcasing the academic performance of students both at Victoria Junior-Senior High and across the state.The report card shows test scores for math, English language arts and science. The Kansas assessment results are reported across four levels.Level one stipulates that a student possesses limited ability to understand and utilize the skills necessary for success after graduation. Level two represents a basic understanding, level three signifies an effective understanding, and level four indicates an excellent comprehension of the subject, according to the Kansas State Department of Education.In the 2022-2023 school year for math, 52.63 percent of students between ninth and 12th grade fall under having limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 36.84 percent of students have a basic understanding, and 10.52 percent show an effective ability to understand.Fewer students statewide fell in the lower two levels on their math tests.The state-wide performance for math in the same grade levels consists of 45.61 percent of students showing limited ability, 33.33 percent having a basic understanding and 13.71 percent having an excellent understanding.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698868727828.png" alt="High school Performance Level Report for math from USD 432 and state level." />
 <figcaption>High school Performance Level Report for math from USD 432 and state level.</figcaption>
 </figure>Less than 10 students at Victoria High School demonstrate an excellent understanding of math, whereas 7.33 percent of high school students across Kansas fall into that category for math excellence.Students at the high school show better performance in English than they do in math for 2022-2023.47.36 percent of students show limited ability to understand English, 36.84 percent have a basic understanding and 15.78 percent of students possess an effective ability to understand, according to the report. Less than 10 students proved to have an excellent understanding in the school year.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698868867535.png" alt="High school Performance Level Report of English from USD 432 and state level." />
 <figcaption>High school Performance Level Report of English from USD 432 and state level.</figcaption>
 </figure>More Victoria high school students also fall in the lowest performing level on English test scores compared to the state numbers.State performance of high school students for English in the school year includes 35.77 percent of students showing a limited ability to understand, 37.46 percent having a basic ability, 21.67 percent possessing an effective understanding and 5.07 percent being excellent in the subject.Science has the most students with limited skills at Victoria Junior High.In the 2022-2023 school year, 76.47 percent of students have a limited understanding of science based on test scores. 17.64 percent of students have a basic understanding and 5.88 percent have an excellent understanding. Less than 10 students at the high school have an effective ability to understand science.To protect student privacy, when a subgroup has fewer than 10 students the data is not displayed.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698869115287.png" alt="High school Performance Level Report of science from USD 432 and state level for 2022 and 2023." />
 <figcaption>High school Performance Level Report of science from USD 432 and state level for 2022 and 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>Victoria High was separated by 30 percentage points compared to the state numbers when looking at students falling in the lowest tier for science in 2023.For 2023, 43.54 percent of high school students in the state had a limited ability to understand science, 27.54 percent had a basic understanding, 17.86 percent had an effective understanding and 11.03 percent showed excellence in understanding, according to the state report card.Reports on the eighth-grade level at Victoria Junior High were better in some subjects, according to the state report card.In the 2022-2023 school year, 23.07 percent of eighth-grade students at Victoria Junior High showed limited ability to understand science. 46.15 percent had a basic understanding, 23.07 percent showed an effective ability to understand and 7.69 percent were excellent in the subject.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698949974287.png" alt="Eighth-grade Performance Level Report of science from USD 432 and state level." />
 <figcaption>Eighth-grade Performance Level Report of science from USD 432 and state level.</figcaption>
 </figure>48.72 percent of all eighth graders in Kansas showed a limited ability to understand science, 28.57 percent had a basic understanding, 15.3 percent proved to be effective at understanding and 7.4 percent had an excellent understanding in the school year.For eighth-grade students at Victoria Junior High, less than 10 students showed an excellent understanding of English in the same school year.Some students may be excluded from the reporting because of small class size because of state efforts to protect student privacy.15.38 percent of eighth-grade students at the high school had a limited understanding of English while 61.53 percent had a basic understanding and 23.07 percent had an effective understanding of the subject.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698950736647.png" alt="Eighth-grade Performance Level Report of&nbsp; English from USD 432 and state level." />
 <figcaption>Eighth-grade Performance Level Report of&nbsp; English from USD 432 and state level.</figcaption>
 </figure>Eighth-grade students in the state of Kansas consisted of 2.85 percent of students having an excellent ability to understand English. 17.93 percent had an effective ability to understand, 42.27 percent had a basic understanding and 36.93 percent were limited in understanding.In Victoria, less than 10 students showed an excellent understanding of math at the high school in 2022-2023.46.15 percent of students had a limited ability to grasp the subject, 7.69 percent had a basic understanding and 46.15 percent showed an effective understanding of math.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698951793885.png" alt="Eighth-grade Performance Level Report of math from USD 432 and state level for 2022 and 2023." />
 <figcaption>Eighth-grade Performance Level Report of math from USD 432 and state level for 2022 and 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>Across the state in the same school year, 47.74 percent of eighth-grade students had a limited understanding of math, 29.43 percent had a basic understanding, 17.85 percent were effective at the subject and 4.96 percent were excellent&nbsp;The latest report of postsecondary success for Victoria Junior High is from 2021. The success rate is 59.1 percent, the effective rate is 56.5 percent and the graduation rate is at 95.7 percent.&nbsp;The graduation rate average across five years is 95 percent, the average success rate is 61 percent and the effectiveness average is 58 percent between 2017 and 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698952766691.png" alt="Four-year adjusted cohort Postsecondary Progress for USD 432" />
 <figcaption>Four-year adjusted cohort Postsecondary Progress for USD 432</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Education considers post-secondary success based on a student meeting one of four criteria within two years of high school graduation. A student must achieve one of these four outcomes:• Earned an approved certification during high school • Attained a postsecondary certificate • Obtained a postsecondary degree • Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduationA closer look at the graduation rate will show a slight decrease from 2021 to 2022 at the high school but still above the graduation average for Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698954128014.png" alt="Four-year graduation rate for USD 432" />
 <figcaption>Four-year graduation rate for USD 432</figcaption>
 </figure>At the state level, the four-year graduation rate in 2021 was 89.3 percent and 89.8 percent in 2022.&nbsp;The last years Kansas administered state-level history, government and social studies assessments were in 2017 to 2018.For the start of the 2022-2023 school year, a new history, government, and social studies classroom-based assessment was mandatory for students in at least grades four and seven. However, the results from this assessment were not included in the report card.All of the current members of the Victoria USD 432 Board of Education were contacted for comment about the state report card. Some did not respond. The rest referred the Hays Post back to the superintendent for comment.The Hays Post contacted Victoria Superintendent Kimberly Woolf. She declined to comment for this story.The Hays Post sent questionnaires to all the candidates who are running for seats on the Victoria USD 432 school board.&nbsp;Candidates were asked what they think the school district should do to improve student test scores and academic performance."I don’t advocate for making testing easier, but instead for making teaching more effective. Effective teachers make the students better, and better students do better things," candidate Jake Hunter said.Candidate Haley Gagnon said, "The board should take heed of the teachers's suggestions and concerns when it comes to these issues because they are the ones with the education and experience to lead our students to academic success."&nbsp;Candidate Tammy Lee Schumacher said, "A major requirement is hiring more paras&nbsp;per capita of students in our school system, especially to support those children that have special scholastic needs."Not all candidates returned responses to the Hays Post questionnaire. Links to responses for those who did are below.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/59c70adf-b54c-4c33-85be-44c10e7d6af2">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Gregory Sander</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c3308acd-0982-4e55-8fa4-678d8f2568af">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Matt Orr</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b2209a41-cbd4-4d63-a87c-c7617ad4a02f">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Terry Dinkel</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c3a5c688-2db2-40c2-a2d9-c3b584501c9d">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Janea Dinkel</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e2623634-577d-4c48-8273-1a211292b447">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Tammy Lichter</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/af7c4939-32d8-46b0-a9be-fd97da4cea92">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Haley Gagnon</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0d3c7f07-6255-4d75-801f-73a1f45b8c63">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Jake Hunter</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6a0cac8-db01-44d4-90bc-5c6c6800c847">RELATED STORY: Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Tammy Lee Schumacher</a>Other candidates who will appear on the ballot include&nbsp;Brenton Hoffman,&nbsp;Douglas Kuh and&nbsp;Morgan Pfeifer.&nbsp;Election Day is Tuesday. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.To find your polling location,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">click here</a>.

Victoria High falls short of state test score averages, junior high fares better

Do you like water conservation and really want to convey the message to the public?&nbsp; Well, have I got the position for you!&nbsp; 4-H Water Ambassadors are a group of teens in Barton and Ellis counties that focus on the importance of water quality, water conservation, and water careers.

My name is Jonas Kern and I’m a sophomore at Ellinwood High School.&nbsp; 

I have been a 4-H20 ambassador for two years.&nbsp; My favorite part of being an ambassador with this program is the opportunity to learn and present.&nbsp; I am heavily involved in the wildlife project within 4-H.&nbsp; Teaching about the importance of water as a natural resource helped me reach my project goals.

To be a water ambassador, teens must apply to join and then attend two training sessions where they learn about different leadership and presentation skills.&nbsp; After training in Hays, the ambassador team gets to tour the municipal water treatment plant, and the wastewater treatment plant.&nbsp; There are a lot of steps to ensure we have clean and safe drinking water!&nbsp; 

The other training is held at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, and we get to tour the Cheyenne Bottoms wetland and learn how water acts and affects the environment.&nbsp; 

During the training, we learn to lead activities to teach others about water.&nbsp; I personally like to lead the “Incredible Journey.”&nbsp; It is an activity where you become a water molecule and travel through the water cycle.&nbsp; You might end up in an animal, a cloud, or an ocean.&nbsp; Students create a bracelet with beads to remind them of their trip through the hydrosphere.&nbsp; I led the activity at the state 4-H Discovery Days and at the Barton County Fair.

And that is what water ambassadors is all about.&nbsp; After we learn how to do cool activities, we go out and lead presentations at a variety of places, like the Hays Public Library, Sternberg Museum, or the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.&nbsp; We are always looking for opportunities to present for other organizations.

If you are interested in being an ambassador or want the ambassadors to present at your event, contact the Cottonwood District Extension Office.&nbsp; Michelle Beran in Barton County at 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:BT@listserv.ksu.edu">BT@listserv.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and Tamara Robertson in Ellis County at 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:el@listserv.ksu.edu">el@listserv.ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp; Applications for the 2023-2024 team will be due December 1.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698420858900.jpeg" alt="4-H20 Ambassador Jonas Kern, Ellinwood, at the Fort Hays State University Kansas Wetlands Education Center in Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>4-H20 Ambassador Jonas Kern, Ellinwood, at the Fort Hays State University Kansas Wetlands Education Center in Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Do you like water conservation and really want to convey the message to the public?&nbsp; Well, have I got the position for you!&nbsp; 4-H Water Ambassadors are a group of teens in Barton and Ellis counties that focus on the importance of water quality, water conservation, and water careers.My name is Jonas Kern and I’m a sophomore at Ellinwood High School.&nbsp; I have been a 4-H20 ambassador for two years.&nbsp; My favorite part of being an ambassador with this program is the opportunity to learn and present.&nbsp; I am heavily involved in the wildlife project within 4-H.&nbsp; Teaching about the importance of water as a natural resource helped me reach my project goals.To be a water ambassador, teens must apply to join and then attend two training sessions where they learn about different leadership and presentation skills.&nbsp; After training in Hays, the ambassador team gets to tour the municipal water treatment plant, and the wastewater treatment plant.&nbsp; There are a lot of steps to ensure we have clean and safe drinking water!&nbsp; The other training is held at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, and we get to tour the Cheyenne Bottoms wetland and learn how water acts and affects the environment.&nbsp; During the training, we learn to lead activities to teach others about water.&nbsp; I personally like to lead the “Incredible Journey.”&nbsp; It is an activity where you become a water molecule and travel through the water cycle.&nbsp; You might end up in an animal, a cloud, or an ocean.&nbsp; Students create a bracelet with beads to remind them of their trip through the hydrosphere.&nbsp; I led the activity at the state 4-H Discovery Days and at the Barton County Fair.And that is what water ambassadors is all about.&nbsp; After we learn how to do cool activities, we go out and lead presentations at a variety of places, like the Hays Public Library, Sternberg Museum, or the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.&nbsp; We are always looking for opportunities to present for other organizations.If you are interested in being an ambassador or want the ambassadors to present at your event, contact the Cottonwood District Extension Office.&nbsp; Michelle Beran in Barton County at 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:BT@listserv.ksu.edu">BT@listserv.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and Tamara Robertson in Ellis County at 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:el@listserv.ksu.edu">el@listserv.ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp; Applications for the 2023-2024 team will be due December 1.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H Water Ambassadors program looking for new members

The weeks between harvest and when snow flies can be a good time to evaluate and perform maintenance on terraces. 

In Kansas, over 9 million acres of land is protected by more than 290,000 miles of terraces, making Kansas number two in the U.S. for this soil and water conservation practice. 

To accomplish the goal of erosion control and water savings, terraces must have adequate capacity, ridge height, and channel width.&nbsp;

Without adequate capacity to carry water, terraces will be overtopped by runoff in a heavy storm. Overtopping causes erosion of the terrace ridge, terrace back slope, and lower terraces and may result in severe gullies. 

Terraces are typically designed to handle runoff from a 1-in-10-year storm. The rainfall amounts for such a storm are approximately five inches for eastern Kansas, four inches for central, and three inches for western Kansas during a 24-hour period.&nbsp;

Terraces need regular maintenance to function for a long life. 

Erosion by water, wind, and tillage wears the ridge down and deposits sediment in the channel, decreasing the effective ridge height, and channel capacity. The amount of capacity loss depends on the type and number of tillage operations, topography, soil properties, crop residue, and precipitation. Terrace maintenance restores capacity by removing sediment from the channel and rebuilding ridge height.&nbsp;

Typically, more frequent maintenance is required for steep slopes and/or highly erodible soils. Annual maintenance is necessary for intense tillage operations and heavy rainfall runoff. Less frequent maintenance is often adequate with high residue levels or where lower rainfall occurs and runoff intensity is low.&nbsp;

Check for needed repairs; terraces degrade naturally by erosion and sediment, and can be damaged by machinery, animals, settling, and erosion. Check terraces and terrace outlets regularly (at least annually) for needed repairs. 

The best time to check is after rains, when erosion, sedimentation, and unevenness in elevation are easiest to spot. Specific items to note are overtopping, low or narrow terrace ridges, water ponding in the channel, terrace outlets, erosion, and sediment clogging near waterway or pipe outlets.&nbsp;

Terraces should be considered only a part of an overall erosion control plan. Use of conservation farming methods, especially residue maintenance, compliments erosion control structures and has been shown to be both economically and environmentally sound.&nbsp;

Information provided by DeAnn Presley, K-State Soil Management Specialist. Additional sources for technical information include local USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and county conservation district offices.&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The weeks between harvest and when snow flies can be a good time to evaluate and perform maintenance on terraces. In Kansas, over 9 million acres of land is protected by more than 290,000 miles of terraces, making Kansas number two in the U.S. for this soil and water conservation practice. To accomplish the goal of erosion control and water savings, terraces must have adequate capacity, ridge height, and channel width.&nbsp;Without adequate capacity to carry water, terraces will be overtopped by runoff in a heavy storm. Overtopping causes erosion of the terrace ridge, terrace back slope, and lower terraces and may result in severe gullies. Terraces are typically designed to handle runoff from a 1-in-10-year storm. The rainfall amounts for such a storm are approximately five inches for eastern Kansas, four inches for central, and three inches for western Kansas during a 24-hour period.&nbsp;Terraces need regular maintenance to function for a long life. Erosion by water, wind, and tillage wears the ridge down and deposits sediment in the channel, decreasing the effective ridge height, and channel capacity. The amount of capacity loss depends on the type and number of tillage operations, topography, soil properties, crop residue, and precipitation. Terrace maintenance restores capacity by removing sediment from the channel and rebuilding ridge height.&nbsp;Typically, more frequent maintenance is required for steep slopes and/or highly erodible soils. Annual maintenance is necessary for intense tillage operations and heavy rainfall runoff. Less frequent maintenance is often adequate with high residue levels or where lower rainfall occurs and runoff intensity is low.&nbsp;Check for needed repairs; terraces degrade naturally by erosion and sediment, and can be damaged by machinery, animals, settling, and erosion. Check terraces and terrace outlets regularly (at least annually) for needed repairs. The best time to check is after rains, when erosion, sedimentation, and unevenness in elevation are easiest to spot. Specific items to note are overtopping, low or narrow terrace ridges, water ponding in the channel, terrace outlets, erosion, and sediment clogging near waterway or pipe outlets.&nbsp;Terraces should be considered only a part of an overall erosion control plan. Use of conservation farming methods, especially residue maintenance, compliments erosion control structures and has been shown to be both economically and environmentally sound.&nbsp;Information provided by DeAnn Presley, K-State Soil Management Specialist. Additional sources for technical information include local USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and county conservation district offices.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.

CAMPBELL: Check terraces now for needed repairs and maintenance 

By FHSU University Communications

Fort Hays State University is proud to announce that its political science program has been recognized as one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtF6Uio2ibCZ95oemh9UBrrXfWrRi9MlnWQANWXHrTIQICluybKIcm3-2BDAXR4lZ6VOr7E-2FSi8muRYaMb7HtnmsIMGtD1gWq-2FhC1GydUGwz9-2BrsK4s_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbe6w8INHHKUAv2LJLUuyy0AJMcnS8VY-2FqkBsuar-2B4oiLXwMDN1uUIaZEC2GaSjryhYsWWI-2Fw-2FaSZBC8dv9PafK-2F598vdbbAEFtX43oVNjqmVo-2BCJMcYewPCRNuubBEcu0dJH5ai8d1Pw6qBdbSdElMSncQe6SM9iHaWNhtGKzu1zb1VGZxeIh0UuYmbKSsEjWlbm8CW-2B5VwZGYr0HwmAQ8KjPsKwiP0GhrhluuN-2Ft0DCd-2FqAANcd-2BvSBTLkdR4SKK6wd3Diq4pbD-2B6c84Fu0EAQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Top 10 Best Online Political Science Degrees</a>&nbsp;in the nation for 2023 by Forbes Advisor. This prestigious accolade underscores the university’s commitment to providing high-quality education and cutting-edge online learning opportunities for students pursuing political science careers.

Forbes Advisor, a renowned platform known for its expertise in financial and educational guidance, meticulously evaluated a multitude of political science programs offered by various universities across the United States. The selection process involved rigorous analysis, including factors such as course offerings, student support services, affordability, and overall program reputation.

FHSU’s online political science program offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum, providing students with in-depth knowledge of domestic and international politics, law, public policy, political theory, and various fields within the discipline. Students can access the program from anywhere in the world while maintaining work, family, and personal commitments.

With a focus on enhancing critical thinking, analytical skills, and research capabilities, the political science program at FHSU prepares students to succeed in diverse career paths, including government, public service, law, nonprofit organizations, international relations, and more.

The recognition by Forbes Advisor further solidifies Fort Hays State University’s standing as a leading institution of higher education. FHSU’s commitment to providing exceptional online education aligns with the changing landscape of higher learning and caters to the needs of modern learners, offering them a pathway to professional success and personal growth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698679603175.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University Communications Fort Hays State University is proud to announce that its political science program has been recognized as one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtF6Uio2ibCZ95oemh9UBrrXfWrRi9MlnWQANWXHrTIQICluybKIcm3-2BDAXR4lZ6VOr7E-2FSi8muRYaMb7HtnmsIMGtD1gWq-2FhC1GydUGwz9-2BrsK4s_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbe6w8INHHKUAv2LJLUuyy0AJMcnS8VY-2FqkBsuar-2B4oiLXwMDN1uUIaZEC2GaSjryhYsWWI-2Fw-2FaSZBC8dv9PafK-2F598vdbbAEFtX43oVNjqmVo-2BCJMcYewPCRNuubBEcu0dJH5ai8d1Pw6qBdbSdElMSncQe6SM9iHaWNhtGKzu1zb1VGZxeIh0UuYmbKSsEjWlbm8CW-2B5VwZGYr0HwmAQ8KjPsKwiP0GhrhluuN-2Ft0DCd-2FqAANcd-2BvSBTLkdR4SKK6wd3Diq4pbD-2B6c84Fu0EAQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Top 10 Best Online Political Science Degrees</a>&nbsp;in the nation for 2023 by Forbes Advisor. This prestigious accolade underscores the university’s commitment to providing high-quality education and cutting-edge online learning opportunities for students pursuing political science careers.Forbes Advisor, a renowned platform known for its expertise in financial and educational guidance, meticulously evaluated a multitude of political science programs offered by various universities across the United States. The selection process involved rigorous analysis, including factors such as course offerings, student support services, affordability, and overall program reputation.FHSU’s online political science program offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum, providing students with in-depth knowledge of domestic and international politics, law, public policy, political theory, and various fields within the discipline. Students can access the program from anywhere in the world while maintaining work, family, and personal commitments.With a focus on enhancing critical thinking, analytical skills, and research capabilities, the political science program at FHSU prepares students to succeed in diverse career paths, including government, public service, law, nonprofit organizations, international relations, and more.The recognition by Forbes Advisor further solidifies Fort Hays State University’s standing as a leading institution of higher education. FHSU’s commitment to providing exceptional online education aligns with the changing landscape of higher learning and caters to the needs of modern learners, offering them a pathway to professional success and personal growth.

FHSU's online political science degree ranked top 10 by Forbes Advisor

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699035244954.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

On Saturday, October 14, Hays Boy Scout Troop 133 scouts traveled to the Fort Larned National Historic Site to assist with and participate in their annual candlelight tours event. 

The scouts helped set up a tent encampment similar to those used by the US Army in the 1860s and 1870s.&nbsp; Additionally, scouts set out the lanterns to light the way for tour patrons that evening.&nbsp;

Scouts from Troops 133 and Troop 156 portrayed troopers of the 7th Cavalry during their winter encampment at Fort Larned the winter of 1868-69.&nbsp; The scouts sang songs from the time with great enthusiasm and energy to the delight of tour guests.

As part of their efforts and service time, the scouts received the National Park Service Scout Ranger Award from the chief ranger of Fort Larned.&nbsp;

At the conclusion of the event, Troop 133 camped for the evening just down the road from Fort Larned at Camp Pawnee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698680451281.jpeg" alt="Hays Boy Scout Troop 133 at Fort Larned. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Boy Scout Troop 133 at Fort Larned. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted On Saturday, October 14, Hays Boy Scout Troop 133 scouts traveled to the Fort Larned National Historic Site to assist with and participate in their annual candlelight tours event. The scouts helped set up a tent encampment similar to those used by the US Army in the 1860s and 1870s.&nbsp; Additionally, scouts set out the lanterns to light the way for tour patrons that evening.&nbsp;Scouts from Troops 133 and Troop 156 portrayed troopers of the 7th Cavalry during their winter encampment at Fort Larned the winter of 1868-69.&nbsp; The scouts sang songs from the time with great enthusiasm and energy to the delight of tour guests.As part of their efforts and service time, the scouts received the National Park Service Scout Ranger Award from the chief ranger of Fort Larned.&nbsp;At the conclusion of the event, Troop 133 camped for the evening just down the road from Fort Larned at Camp Pawnee.

Hays Boy Scout Troop 133 assists with Fort Larned annual event

The Hays Post sent questionnaires to all the candidates who are running for seats on the Victoria USD 432 school board.

The candidates who will appear on the ballot include Janea Dinkel, Terry Dinkel, Haley Gagnon, Brenton Hoffman, Jacob Hunter, Douglas Kuh, Tammy Lichter, Matthew Orr, Morgan Pfeifer, Gregory Sander, Tammy Lee Schumacher.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

To find your polling location, <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">click here</a>.

Age: 61 Profession: International Best Seller Author, Speaker, Trainer, Life Coach, Farmer, Mother, Grandmother Incumbent: No

Do you have children or grandchildren who attend(ed) Victoria schools?

&nbsp;I have five children who are Alumni of USD 432 Disctrict. I have nine grandchildren currently attending. Two more will be attending next year. And in the near future a few more, including great-grandchildren.

Why are you running for school board?&nbsp;

As a former school board member multiple parents came to me throughout the 2023 part of the school year and asked me to run. When I heard of the issues at hand I chose to step up to the plate. I am seeing the need that our younger generations require support and guidance from those of us who have walked this walk before.

As an international best-selling author, Life Coach and Mentor, Farmer’s wife, mother of five Alumni, a businesswoman and grandmother of 13, nine of which attend USD 432 schools, I come with the capacity of emotional and mental maturity to actively listen to the hard conversations. I bring a new perspective that will not always be of a “YES” person.

I am running with the Intention of Transforming and holding a higher bar for Truth, Integrity, and Transparency.

I will work towards keeping accountability strong, especially in those who are hired to run the 432 school district, staying on top of fiscal responsibility and lowering the cap on spending without board approval.I will work towards having the appropriate amount of para’s per capita of students in our school system especially to support those children that have special scholastic needs, some call this IEP.

If you had one thing you could change about the USD&nbsp;432&nbsp;school district, what would it be?

I feel the most important thing we can do for the USD 432 District is work hard at retaining our&nbsp;Good Veteran Teachers, not only will this highly benefit the students, also the newer teachers as well.&nbsp;The last thing I want any of us to experience again is to have multiple great teachers continue to leave our district, as they have the last two years. &nbsp;

What is your opinion of the Hays USD&nbsp;432&nbsp;administration?&nbsp;No Comment&nbsp;

Do you think you could work with the current administration moving forward?&nbsp;&nbsp;Certainly, that is my intention. However, I am not a "Yes" person. I will ask questions. I expect time to do due diligence. I do not make hasty decisions and implementing a requirement of three bids per item that requires an outlay of funds will help with making educated decisions.

What is your opinion of the current school board?

I encourage others to attend the school board meetings on the second Monday of every month at 7 p.m. to form their own personal opinion.

Do you think you could compromise with the incumbents who will remain on the board?

My intention is to work with those who remain on the board cohesively along with those who will take the four open seats, however, I am not a “YES” person. If we come to a point where we agree to disagree, I will vote as that in front of the public. In my opinion, voting “all in favor” when I do not agree is misleading the public and misrepresenting the reasons I ran for the position of being on the school board. We do not live in a Pollyanna world, there are real issues at hand and to pretend otherwise will go against the reason I am running.&nbsp;I committed back in April, to run with the Intention of Transforming and holding a higher bar for Truth, Integrity, and Transparency.

What do you think the board’s role should be in the day-to-day operations of the district?&nbsp;

The school board should not have to be involved in day-to-day operations since they hired someone who should be capable of doing so, hopefully able to be trusted to run things accordingly.&nbsp;It is that person’s job to manage the daily functions of the district.&nbsp;However, parents that have come to me to ask me to run for school board, I have learned that somewhere along the way trust has been broken and shattered with some parents and students. If it calls to have&nbsp;more involvement until trust is rebuilt and true transparency comes forth consistently, being readily available for students, parents, staff, and supporting teachers; however I can, I will to the best of my ability. School board members must remember they were elected by the parents of these students to do the absolute best for them and if for a bit that entails being more involved in some areas, we should step forward.&nbsp; It is not about control or dictatorship, it is about building and maintaining a solid relationship between board members, administration, parents, students, staff, and teachers that is built&nbsp;upon Transparency, Integrity, and Truth, which lends itself to others to build Trust. I have faith that by working together with this type of foundation we can transform where things are currently to be a strong unity, putting our children, the students at the top of the priority list.

What are your opinions of the school district’s discipline policies&nbsp;and how they have been applied?

What do you think the school district should do to improve student test scores and academic performance?

Full Circle goes back to Teacher retention, especially for Veteran teachers. Bring back pen and paper more frequently, along with textbooks that they&nbsp;actually&nbsp;use, and reduce the amount of time on iPads/technology. Too much screen time is not good for the health of these young people. A major requirement is hiring more Para's&nbsp;per capita of students in our school system especially to support those children that have special scholastic needs. Inform parents immediately, less than 24 hours, no excuses allowed, when a student is on the low or failing list, and when not adhering to this, do not punish the student when parents are not notified immediately.&nbsp;Together, We are affecting the totality of those children and teachers in the day-to-day&nbsp;functioning and I do not take that lightly.

The Hays Post sent questionnaires to all the candidates who are running for seats on the Victoria USD 432 school board.The candidates who will appear on the ballot include Janea Dinkel, Terry Dinkel, Haley Gagnon, Brenton Hoffman, Jacob Hunter, Douglas Kuh, Tammy Lichter, Matthew Orr, Morgan Pfeifer, Gregory Sander, Tammy Lee Schumacher.Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.To find your polling location, <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">click here</a>.<h2>Tammy Lee Schumacher</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698944062924.jpeg" alt="Tammy Lee Schumacher" />
 <figcaption>Tammy Lee Schumacher</figcaption>
 </figure>Age: 61 Profession: International Best Seller Author, Speaker, Trainer, Life Coach, Farmer, Mother, Grandmother Incumbent: NoDo you have children or grandchildren who attend(ed) Victoria schools?&nbsp;I have five children who are Alumni of USD 432 Disctrict. I have nine grandchildren currently attending. Two more will be attending next year. And in the near future a few more, including great-grandchildren.Why are you running for school board?&nbsp;As a former school board member multiple parents came to me throughout the 2023 part of the school year and asked me to run. When I heard of the issues at hand I chose to step up to the plate. I am seeing the need that our younger generations require support and guidance from those of us who have walked this walk before.As an international best-selling author, Life Coach and Mentor, Farmer’s wife, mother of five Alumni, a businesswoman and grandmother of 13, nine of which attend USD 432 schools, I come with the capacity of emotional and mental maturity to actively listen to the hard conversations. I bring a new perspective that will not always be of a “YES” person.I am running with the Intention of Transforming and holding a higher bar for Truth, Integrity, and Transparency.I will work towards keeping accountability strong, especially in those who are hired to run the 432 school district, staying on top of fiscal responsibility and lowering the cap on spending without board approval.I will work towards having the appropriate amount of para’s per capita of students in our school system especially to support those children that have special scholastic needs, some call this IEP.If you had one thing you could change about the USD&nbsp;432&nbsp;school district, what would it be?I feel the most important thing we can do for the USD 432 District is work hard at retaining our&nbsp;Good Veteran Teachers, not only will this highly benefit the students, also the newer teachers as well.&nbsp;The last thing I want any of us to experience again is to have multiple great teachers continue to leave our district, as they have the last two years. &nbsp;What is your opinion of the Hays USD&nbsp;432&nbsp;administration?&nbsp;No Comment&nbsp;Do you think you could work with the current administration moving forward?&nbsp;&nbsp;Certainly, that is my intention. However, I am not a "Yes" person. I will ask questions. I expect time to do due diligence. I do not make hasty decisions and implementing a requirement of three bids per item that requires an outlay of funds will help with making educated decisions.What is your opinion of the current school board?I encourage others to attend the school board meetings on the second Monday of every month at 7 p.m. to form their own personal opinion.Do you think you could compromise with the incumbents who will remain on the board?My intention is to work with those who remain on the board cohesively along with those who will take the four open seats, however, I am not a “YES” person. If we come to a point where we agree to disagree, I will vote as that in front of the public. In my opinion, voting “all in favor” when I do not agree is misleading the public and misrepresenting the reasons I ran for the position of being on the school board. We do not live in a Pollyanna world, there are real issues at hand and to pretend otherwise will go against the reason I am running.&nbsp;I committed back in April, to run with the Intention of Transforming and holding a higher bar for Truth, Integrity, and Transparency.What do you think the board’s role should be in the day-to-day operations of the district?&nbsp;The school board should not have to be involved in day-to-day operations since they hired someone who should be capable of doing so, hopefully able to be trusted to run things accordingly.&nbsp;It is that person’s job to manage the daily functions of the district.&nbsp;However, parents that have come to me to ask me to run for school board, I have learned that somewhere along the way trust has been broken and shattered with some parents and students. If it calls to have&nbsp;more involvement until trust is rebuilt and true transparency comes forth consistently, being readily available for students, parents, staff, and supporting teachers; however I can, I will to the best of my ability. School board members must remember they were elected by the parents of these students to do the absolute best for them and if for a bit that entails being more involved in some areas, we should step forward.&nbsp; It is not about control or dictatorship, it is about building and maintaining a solid relationship between board members, administration, parents, students, staff, and teachers that is built&nbsp;upon Transparency, Integrity, and Truth, which lends itself to others to build Trust. I have faith that by working together with this type of foundation we can transform where things are currently to be a strong unity, putting our children, the students at the top of the priority list.What are your opinions of the school district’s discipline policies&nbsp;and how they have been applied?Inconsistent, favoritism is evidentWhat do you think the school district should do to improve student test scores and academic performance?Full Circle goes back to Teacher retention, especially for Veteran teachers. Bring back pen and paper more frequently, along with textbooks that they&nbsp;actually&nbsp;use, and reduce the amount of time on iPads/technology. Too much screen time is not good for the health of these young people. A major requirement is hiring more Para's&nbsp;per capita of students in our school system especially to support those children that have special scholastic needs. Inform parents immediately, less than 24 hours, no excuses allowed, when a student is on the low or failing list, and when not adhering to this, do not punish the student when parents are not notified immediately.&nbsp;Together, We are affecting the totality of those children and teachers in the day-to-day&nbsp;functioning and I do not take that lightly.

Victoria USD 432 BOE candidate: Tammy Lee Schumacher

By JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat

HUTCHINSON — From beautiful hand-crafted wheat weaving to stunning captured moments of the growing season to hefty jars and bags filled with wheat kernels, Kansas Wheaties brought their best entries to the Kansas State Fair. With ribbons awarded and entries taken home, Kansas Wheat recognizes the winners of annually sponsored contests at the statewide event, including the Market Wheat Show, Open-Class Division — “It’s All About Bread,” Kansas Wheat Photography contest and Wheat Weaving.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“A little friendly competition can be fun, and the Kansas State Fair is the perfect statewide showcase,” said Cindy Falk, Kansas Wheat nutrition educator. “Kansas Wheat sponsors a wide variety of contests, so there’s something for everyone in the family to participate in and enjoy.”

Meeting the needs of customers is important to any business, and wheat farming is no exception. The Kansas Market Wheat Show exists to educate Kansas wheat producers of all ages on the factors that they can control, to some extent, to grow high-quality wheat.

 Entries into the Market Wheat Show include five pounds of wheat grown by the exhibitor in the current year. Entries are then judged on protein, test weight, dockage, shrunken and broken kernels and milling and baking scores. Kansas Wheat also sponsors Division 121 - Wheat, which ups the sample size to 20 pounds of wheat in any container, all of which must be the same variety.&nbsp;

In the Market Wheat Show, the division champion went to Jay Derley from Lewis with his entry of HRW wheat, with Greg Turek from Caldwell receiving reserve champion. Derley also won the Market Wheat Sweepstakes for Western Kansas and Turek won the sweepstakes award for Eastern Kansas. In Division 121, Cameron Peirce from Hutchinson won the division champion award.&nbsp;

Division Champion - Cameron Peirce, Hutchinson

All Agri-Pro/Syngenta HRW Varieties

For those with a keen eye, the Kansas Wheat Photography Contest is a perfect fit. The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers, who are challenged to capture the story of Kansas wheat across all aspects of the industry from seeding to storage to wheat fields, harvest, grain trade, milling, baking and anything else that captures the photographer’s imagination. This year’s contest winner was Loribeth Reynolds from Hutchison.&nbsp;

Kansas Wheat Photography Contest Results

Wheat weavers combine nimble fingers with pure artistry to make intricate creations from amber waves of grain. Divisions include everything from holiday designs to jewelry as these artists utilize traditional patterns and draw upon their creative talents to come up with new and contemporary designs. This year’s division champion was Angela Harlan from Viola, and the reserve champion was Donna Morgenstern from Salina.

And no state fair is complete without food. In the “It’s All About Bread” category, bakers exhibit their best recipes from sourdough bread, holiday bread and whole wheat quick bread. This year’s winners combined tasty ingredients with perfect technique to make winning entries of Rosemary Parmesan Sourdough Bread (Sourdough Division), Whole Wheat Honey Applesauce Pecan Quick Bread (Whole Wheat Quick Bread Division) and a Holiday Kolache Bouquet (Holiday Bread Division).

While the contests and categories for the 2024 Kansas State Fair won’t be open for entry until next summer, there’s no need to wait to try out a new recipe, break out the camera to capture wheat planting in action or try your hand at a new craft. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001I0OHWVULPg4cv9EiTM-Zd8xc0AIfkAolfbO5ERY1n6vbPFWw0w7oZeD2BYQp6W1q-m5-6PKaQ_tuizWK_NraDAL6UlJFsa2VF7TbPwGi_xIkTEiCEjkxYpU2VMLw1ghsELQHgrKEHfI=&amp;c=aNs_bz660fXcplA64DxOlHSe6sDfenA0j8JEMqd7YC4J4Hu9hEXGIg==&amp;ch=IcL96hmUSkdD6mew_1QDRH6gUR0c-t6-CRNICa-R6jtmHRS8lDuF6Q==" target="_blank">eatwheat.org</a>&nbsp;for ideas and inspiration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091796126.png" alt="Loribeth Reynolds was the winner of the 2023 Kansas Wheat photography contest. Photo by Loribeth Reynolds" />
 <figcaption>Loribeth Reynolds was the winner of the 2023 Kansas Wheat photography contest. Photo by Loribeth Reynolds</figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatHUTCHINSON — From beautiful hand-crafted wheat weaving to stunning captured moments of the growing season to hefty jars and bags filled with wheat kernels, Kansas Wheaties brought their best entries to the Kansas State Fair. With ribbons awarded and entries taken home, Kansas Wheat recognizes the winners of annually sponsored contests at the statewide event, including the Market Wheat Show, Open-Class Division — “It’s All About Bread,” Kansas Wheat Photography contest and Wheat Weaving.&nbsp;&nbsp;“A little friendly competition can be fun, and the Kansas State Fair is the perfect statewide showcase,” said Cindy Falk, Kansas Wheat nutrition educator. “Kansas Wheat sponsors a wide variety of contests, so there’s something for everyone in the family to participate in and enjoy.”Meeting the needs of customers is important to any business, and wheat farming is no exception. The Kansas Market Wheat Show exists to educate Kansas wheat producers of all ages on the factors that they can control, to some extent, to grow high-quality wheat. Entries into the Market Wheat Show include five pounds of wheat grown by the exhibitor in the current year. Entries are then judged on protein, test weight, dockage, shrunken and broken kernels and milling and baking scores. Kansas Wheat also sponsors Division 121 - Wheat, which ups the sample size to 20 pounds of wheat in any container, all of which must be the same variety.&nbsp;In the Market Wheat Show, the division champion went to Jay Derley from Lewis with his entry of HRW wheat, with Greg Turek from Caldwell receiving reserve champion. Derley also won the Market Wheat Sweepstakes for Western Kansas and Turek won the sweepstakes award for Eastern Kansas. In Division 121, Cameron Peirce from Hutchinson won the division champion award.&nbsp;Market Wheat Show ResultsChampion - Jay Derley, LewisReserve Champion - Greg Turek, CaldwellMarket Wheat Sweepstakes<ol>
 <li>Eastern Kansas - Greg Turek, Caldwell</li><li>Western Kansas - Jay Derley, Lewis</li>
 </ol>Class 1 - All Hard White Wheat<ol>
 <li>Brad Whitman, Leoti</li>
 </ol>Class 2 - All HRW Blends<ol>
 <li>LaVern Potuzak, Agenda</li><li>Royden Derstein, Ford</li><li>Mat Mai, Russell</li><li>Larry Stude, Larned</li><li>Gerald Mai</li>
 </ol>Class 3 - All Other Private HRS<ol>
 <li>Brandon Riffey, Sawyer</li><li>Jaxten Fimple, Ness City</li><li>Emily George, Albert</li><li>Clark Greene, Larned</li><li>Ruben Blatz, Montezuma</li>
 </ol>Class 4 - All WestBred/Monsanto<ol>
 <li>Lyle Katz, Kinsley</li><li>Mark Baus, La Crosse</li><li>Gary Graff, Marienthal</li><li>Rick Sherer, Mullinville</li><li>Piper Brown, Russell</li>
 </ol>Class 5 - KSU HRW Varieties<ol>
 <li>Dan Wimmer, Bushton</li><li>Jaiden Pfannenstiel, Hays</li><li>Greg Turek, Caldwell</li><li>Colten Katz, Lewis</li><li>Waymaster Farms, Bunker Hill</li>
 </ol>Class 6 - All Other Public HRW<ol>
 <li>Jay Derley, Lewis</li><li>Jason Hildenbrand, Stafford</li><li>Fred Newby, Pratt</li><li>Jason Howell, Preston</li><li>Allen and Beth Vogel, Wright</li>
 </ol>Division 121 - Wheat ResultsDivision Champion - Cameron Peirce, HutchinsonAll Agri-Pro/Syngenta HRW Varieties<ol>
 <li>Joshua Patterson, Whitewater</li><li>Nolen Hyde, Minneapolis</li>
 </ol>All Hard White Wheat Variety<ol>
 <li>Sterling Nichepor, Ness City</li><li>Cameron Peirce, Hutchinson&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>All Other Varieties or Hybrids<ol>
 <li>Joshua Patterson, Whitewater</li><li>Doug Patterson, Valley Center</li>
 </ol>All WestBred HRW Varieties<ol>
 <li>Reed Nichepor, Ness City</li>
 </ol>KSU HRW Varieties<ol>
 <li>Cameron Peirce, Hutchinson</li>
 </ol>Other Public HRW Varieties<ol>
 <li>Steven Yust, Sylvia</li>
 </ol>For those with a keen eye, the Kansas Wheat Photography Contest is a perfect fit. The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers, who are challenged to capture the story of Kansas wheat across all aspects of the industry from seeding to storage to wheat fields, harvest, grain trade, milling, baking and anything else that captures the photographer’s imagination. This year’s contest winner was Loribeth Reynolds from Hutchison.&nbsp;Kansas Wheat Photography Contest Results<ol>
 <li>Loribeth Reynolds, Hutchinson</li><li>Kimberly Coffey, Wichita</li><li>Ellie Just, Marion</li>
 </ol>Wheat weavers combine nimble fingers with pure artistry to make intricate creations from amber waves of grain. Divisions include everything from holiday designs to jewelry as these artists utilize traditional patterns and draw upon their creative talents to come up with new and contemporary designs. This year’s division champion was Angela Harlan from Viola, and the reserve champion was Donna Morgenstern from Salina.Wheat Weaving Contest ResultsPlaited<ol>
 <li>Marian Vavra, Norwich</li><li>Donna Morgenstern, Salina</li><li>Mary Thrower, Minneapolis</li>
 </ol>Marquetry<ol>
 <li>Marian Vavra, Norwich</li><li>Donna Morgenstern, Salina</li>
 </ol>Dimensional<ol>
 <li>Angela Harlan, Viola</li><li>Rita Peterman, McPherson</li><li>Donna Morgenstern, Salina</li>
 </ol>Jewelry/Pin/Corsage<ol>
 <li>Marian Vavra, Norwich</li><li>Donna Morgenstern, Salina</li>
 </ol>Swiss Work<ol>
 <li>Donna Morgenstern, Salina</li>
 </ol>Straw Pulp<ol>
 <li>Donna Morgenstern, Salina</li>
 </ol>Holiday Design<ol>
 <li>Mary Thrower, Minneapolis</li><li>Marian Vavra, Norwich</li><li>Rita Peterman, McPherson</li>
 </ol>And no state fair is complete without food. In the “It’s All About Bread” category, bakers exhibit their best recipes from sourdough bread, holiday bread and whole wheat quick bread. This year’s winners combined tasty ingredients with perfect technique to make winning entries of Rosemary Parmesan Sourdough Bread (Sourdough Division), Whole Wheat Honey Applesauce Pecan Quick Bread (Whole Wheat Quick Bread Division) and a Holiday Kolache Bouquet (Holiday Bread Division).It’s All About Bread ResultsSourdough<ol>
 <li>Jayne Notin, Rosemary Parmesan Sourdough</li><li>Wilma Olds, Sourdough Bread</li>
 </ol>Holiday Bread<ol>
 <li>Wilma Olds, Holiday Kolache Bouquet</li><li>Betty Hawthorne, Snow Flake Pull Apart Monkey Bread</li>
 </ol>Whole Wheat Quick Bread<ol>
 <li>Betty Hawthorne, Whole Wheat Honey Applesauce Pecan Quick Bread</li><li>Wilma Olds, Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread</li>
 </ol>While the contests and categories for the 2024 Kansas State Fair won’t be open for entry until next summer, there’s no need to wait to try out a new recipe, break out the camera to capture wheat planting in action or try your hand at a new craft. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001I0OHWVULPg4cv9EiTM-Zd8xc0AIfkAolfbO5ERY1n6vbPFWw0w7oZeD2BYQp6W1q-m5-6PKaQ_tuizWK_NraDAL6UlJFsa2VF7TbPwGi_xIkTEiCEjkxYpU2VMLw1ghsELQHgrKEHfI=&amp;c=aNs_bz660fXcplA64DxOlHSe6sDfenA0j8JEMqd7YC4J4Hu9hEXGIg==&amp;ch=IcL96hmUSkdD6mew_1QDRH6gUR0c-t6-CRNICa-R6jtmHRS8lDuF6Q==" target="_blank">eatwheat.org</a>&nbsp;for ideas and inspiration.

Area 'Wheaties' showcase craftsmanship, photography, commitment to quality at Kansas State Fair

TMP-Marian (5-4, 4-2 MCL) at Norton (9-0, 6-0 MCL) Friday, Nov. 3 - 7 p.m. Norton, Kan. – Travis Field Radio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs and the Norton Bluejays square off
in a 2A West Regional playoff game Friday night in Norton, in a rematch of a week
seven game won by the Bluejays.

The Monarchs are coming off a 22-0 win over Larned last week
to advance to the second round of the 2A playoffs at 5-4.

Norton is one of four teams that are still unbeaten in 2A at
9-0 after a 64-34 win over Cimarron in their playoff opener last Friday night.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Travis Field in Norton. Live
coverage is radio only on The Monarchs Sports Network due to NFHS and KSHSAA
streaming restrictions.

Friday marks the 27th all-time meeting between
Norton and the TMP football program. Norton has won eight straight and leads
the all-time series 23-3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian (5-4, 4-2 MCL) at Norton (9-0, 6-0 MCL) Friday, Nov. 3 - 7 p.m. Norton, Kan. – Travis Field Radio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs and the Norton Bluejays square off
in a 2A West Regional playoff game Friday night in Norton, in a rematch of a week
seven game won by the Bluejays.The Monarchs are coming off a 22-0 win over Larned last week
to advance to the second round of the 2A playoffs at 5-4.Norton is one of four teams that are still unbeaten in 2A at
9-0 after a 64-34 win over Cimarron in their playoff opener last Friday night.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Travis Field in Norton. Live
coverage is radio only on The Monarchs Sports Network due to NFHS and KSHSAA
streaming restrictions.Friday marks the 27th all-time meeting between
Norton and the TMP football program. Norton has won eight straight and leads
the all-time series 23-3.

🏈🎧 LISTEN - Monarchs travel to Norton for 2A Regional showdown

Hays High (7-2, 3-1 WAC) at Goddard-Eisenhower (8-1, 5-1 AVCTL-II) Friday, Nov. 3 - 7 p.m. Goddard, Kan. -&nbsp; Goddard District Stadium Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/728149">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians travel to Goddard Friday for a 5A regional showdown with the Goddard-Eisenhower Tigers.

The Indians enter the week at 7-2 after a 31-14 win over
Valley Center in their week 9 5A West bracket game.

Goddard-Eisenhower is 8-1 and coming off a 35-6 win over Andover
in their week 9 5A West bracket game.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Goddard District Stadium in Goddard.
Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.

This is the 4th all-time meeting between Hays and
Eisenhower. The Indians are 3-0 against Tigers. None of the first three games
were originally scheduled to happen. The first was a week nine bracket game
31-6 victory. The Indians and Tigers then played a unique game back in 2020.
With Covid restrictions changing many school schedules Hays had to find a
replacement game in week one. Hays and Eisenhower agreed to play a Thursday
night matchup here in Goddard on what was one of the very first high school football
games played in 2020. Hays beat Eisenhower 19-13 in another week 9 game in
2021.&nbsp; 

The 4th game between Hays and Eisenhower ties it with the
series played with Kapaun, Maize, Maize South, Marysville, Oberlin and
Stockton. As mentioned, the Indians are 3-0 against Eisenhower. The list of
teams that Hays has played more than one time and never lost to…includes
Concordia (2-0), Lyons (2-0), Otis (though that series is 3-0-1), Wichita South
who the Indians are 10-0 against, and Quinter who the Indians are 7-0 against
and last played in a series running from 1930 through 1939.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High (7-2, 3-1 WAC) at Goddard-Eisenhower (8-1, 5-1 AVCTL-II) Friday, Nov. 3 - 7 p.m. Goddard, Kan. -&nbsp; Goddard District Stadium Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/728149">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians travel to Goddard Friday for a 5A regional showdown with the Goddard-Eisenhower Tigers.The Indians enter the week at 7-2 after a 31-14 win over
Valley Center in their week 9 5A West bracket game.Goddard-Eisenhower is 8-1 and coming off a 35-6 win over Andover
in their week 9 5A West bracket game.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Goddard District Stadium in Goddard.
Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.This is the 4th all-time meeting between Hays and
Eisenhower. The Indians are 3-0 against Tigers. None of the first three games
were originally scheduled to happen. The first was a week nine bracket game
31-6 victory. The Indians and Tigers then played a unique game back in 2020.
With Covid restrictions changing many school schedules Hays had to find a
replacement game in week one. Hays and Eisenhower agreed to play a Thursday
night matchup here in Goddard on what was one of the very first high school football
games played in 2020. Hays beat Eisenhower 19-13 in another week 9 game in
2021.&nbsp; The 4th game between Hays and Eisenhower ties it with the
series played with Kapaun, Maize, Maize South, Marysville, Oberlin and
Stockton. As mentioned, the Indians are 3-0 against Eisenhower. The list of
teams that Hays has played more than one time and never lost to…includes
Concordia (2-0), Lyons (2-0), Otis (though that series is 3-0-1), Wichita South
who the Indians are 10-0 against, and Quinter who the Indians are 7-0 against
and last played in a series running from 1930 through 1939.

🏈🎥 Indians battle Goddard-Eisenhower in 5A regional matchup

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CQ70Q3uShRs?si=o-wQkZ6QLdeIZdU9" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann.

🎤 Forward Ever: Rep. Tracey Mann

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Kansas State University will spend Nov. 7-9 visiting several county regions: Barton County, Ellis County, Norton County, Phillips County and Smith County.

The multi-day event across five counties is part of the second year of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/" target="_blank">regional community visits</a>&nbsp;across the state.&nbsp;Through the community visit initiative, K-State is engaging with people and communities across all 105 counties of Kansas.

The upcoming community visit to the five counties will include several days of activities to engage with, listen to and learn from Kansans in the&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;Norton,&nbsp;Phillipsburg&nbsp;and&nbsp;Smith Center&nbsp;regions.

K-State leaders and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/" target="_blank">Connected 'Cats students</a>&nbsp;will lead several events, including community conversations, recruitment activities and events to highlight university partnerships and K-State Research and Extension relationships.

The Connected 'Cats students for the Barton County and Ellis County portion of the visit include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/jocelyn-rigler.html" target="_blank">Jocelyn Rigler</a>, sophomore in biology,&nbsp;Hays, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/rachel-sabesta.html" target="_blank">Rachel Sebesta</a>, junior in agricultural education and global food systems leadership,&nbsp;Wilson.

The Connected 'Cats students for the Phillips County, Norton County and Smith County portion of the visit include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/kagan-keeten.html" target="_blank">Kagan Keeten</a>, senior in agribusiness,&nbsp;Glade, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/meg-keeten.html" target="_blank">Meg Keeten</a>, senior in communications sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Phillipsburg.

The keystone events include two community open forums: •&nbsp;5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7, at the Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th St.,&nbsp;Great Bend People can RSVP for this community open forum at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/barton-county" target="_blank">k-state.edu/barton-county.</a> •&nbsp;5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, at the Bullseye Event Center, 118 S. Kansas Ave.,&nbsp;Norton People can RSVP for the community open forums at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/norton-county" target="_blank">k-state.edu/norton-county.</a>

<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/norton-county" target="_blank"></a>Both community open forums are free and open to all Kansans: community members, leaders, families, current and future students, and parents. The events also will include free K-State Call Hall ice cream.

Other events throughout the multiday visit will occur in Hays, Phillipsburg and Smith Center and will focus on topics such as community development, water management and child care.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/schedule/barton-ellis-norton-phillips-smith-counties/" target="_blank">View a schedule with full details for the Nov. 7-9 community visit</a>.

"Through these community visits, we are engaging with people and communities across the state, which is a key piece of our K-State 105 initiative to build economic prosperity in Kansas," said Jessica Gnad, K-State 105 director. "We want to bring K-State 105 alive through valuable conversations that help build on our partnerships in these five counties."

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/" target="_blank">K-State community visit initiative</a>&nbsp;focuses on the people of Kansas and their communities. K-State is visiting multiple communities throughout the state to listen to and learn from the Kansans who live there.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/" target="_blank">Learn more about the community visit initiative</a>.

The community visits are an important part of the K-State 105 initiative, which is Kansas State University's answer to the call for a comprehensive economic growth and advancement solution for Kansas. The initiative leverages the statewide K-State Research and Extension network to deliver the full breadth of the university's collective knowledge and solution-driven innovation to every Kansan, right where they live and work. 

Additionally, K-State 105 forges the connections and partnerships that create access to additional expertise within other state institutions and agencies, nonprofits and corporations — all part of an effort to build additional capacities and strengths in each of the 105 counties in the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697579622142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State News ServiceMANHATTAN —&nbsp;Kansas State University will spend Nov. 7-9 visiting several county regions: Barton County, Ellis County, Norton County, Phillips County and Smith County.The multi-day event across five counties is part of the second year of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/" target="_blank">regional community visits</a>&nbsp;across the state.&nbsp;Through the community visit initiative, K-State is engaging with people and communities across all 105 counties of Kansas.The upcoming community visit to the five counties will include several days of activities to engage with, listen to and learn from Kansans in the&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;Norton,&nbsp;Phillipsburg&nbsp;and&nbsp;Smith Center&nbsp;regions.K-State leaders and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/" target="_blank">Connected 'Cats students</a>&nbsp;will lead several events, including community conversations, recruitment activities and events to highlight university partnerships and K-State Research and Extension relationships.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697579881432.png" alt="Jocelyn Rigler,&nbsp;

sophomore in biology,&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Barton County and Ellis County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>Jocelyn Rigler,&nbsp;

sophomore in biology,&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Barton County and Ellis County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697580062426.png" alt="Rachel Sebesta, junior in agricultural education and global food systems leadership,&nbsp;Wilson,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Barton County and Ellis County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>Rachel Sebesta, junior in agricultural education and global food systems leadership,&nbsp;Wilson,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Barton County and Ellis County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>The Connected 'Cats students for the Barton County and Ellis County portion of the visit include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/jocelyn-rigler.html" target="_blank">Jocelyn Rigler</a>, sophomore in biology,&nbsp;Hays, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/rachel-sabesta.html" target="_blank">Rachel Sebesta</a>, junior in agricultural education and global food systems leadership,&nbsp;Wilson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697634642597.png" alt="&nbsp; Kagan Keeten,&nbsp;senior in agribusiness,&nbsp;Glade,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Phillips County, Norton County and Smith County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Kagan Keeten,&nbsp;senior in agribusiness,&nbsp;Glade,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Phillips County, Norton County and Smith County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697634749716.png" alt="Meg Keeten,&nbsp;senior in communications sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Phillipsburg,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Phillips County, Norton County and Smith County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>Meg Keeten,&nbsp;senior in communications sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Phillipsburg,&nbsp;is a K-State Connected 'Cat student leader for the&nbsp;Phillips County, Norton County and Smith County portion of the community visit series. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>The Connected 'Cats students for the Phillips County, Norton County and Smith County portion of the visit include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/kagan-keeten.html" target="_blank">Kagan Keeten</a>, senior in agribusiness,&nbsp;Glade, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/meg-keeten.html" target="_blank">Meg Keeten</a>, senior in communications sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Phillipsburg.The keystone events include two community open forums: •&nbsp;5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7, at the Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th St.,&nbsp;Great Bend People can RSVP for this community open forum at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/barton-county" target="_blank">k-state.edu/barton-county.</a> •&nbsp;5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, at the Bullseye Event Center, 118 S. Kansas Ave.,&nbsp;Norton People can RSVP for the community open forums at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/norton-county" target="_blank">k-state.edu/norton-county.</a><a href="http://www.k-state.edu/norton-county" target="_blank"></a>Both community open forums are free and open to all Kansans: community members, leaders, families, current and future students, and parents. The events also will include free K-State Call Hall ice cream.Other events throughout the multiday visit will occur in Hays, Phillipsburg and Smith Center and will focus on topics such as community development, water management and child care.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/schedule/barton-ellis-norton-phillips-smith-counties/" target="_blank">View a schedule with full details for the Nov. 7-9 community visit</a>."Through these community visits, we are engaging with people and communities across the state, which is a key piece of our K-State 105 initiative to build economic prosperity in Kansas," said Jessica Gnad, K-State 105 director. "We want to bring K-State 105 alive through valuable conversations that help build on our partnerships in these five counties."The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/" target="_blank">K-State community visit initiative</a>&nbsp;focuses on the people of Kansas and their communities. K-State is visiting multiple communities throughout the state to listen to and learn from the Kansans who live there.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/" target="_blank">Learn more about the community visit initiative</a>.The community visits are an important part of the K-State 105 initiative, which is Kansas State University's answer to the call for a comprehensive economic growth and advancement solution for Kansas. The initiative leverages the statewide K-State Research and Extension network to deliver the full breadth of the university's collective knowledge and solution-driven innovation to every Kansan, right where they live and work. Additionally, K-State 105 forges the connections and partnerships that create access to additional expertise within other state institutions and agencies, nonprofits and corporations — all part of an effort to build additional capacities and strengths in each of the 105 counties in the state.

K-State travels to five area counties for regional community visits Nov. 7-9   

Benjamin Franklin is credited with saying, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.” Local cities, school districts and the county have recently completed their 2024 budgets, and soon, property owners will receive their annual property tax statements.

Of course, none of us like to pay taxes, and there are few issues that generate more indigestion, but at the risk of creating heartburn, I thought I would provide some data that I believe is relevant.

I often hear the comment that “taxes are too high in Hays.” When I hear this, my initial thought is compared to what? Compared to other Kansas communities our size? Compared to what they were a few years ago? It isn’t reasonable to say something is too high without some basis for comparison.

Benjamin Franklin is credited with saying, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.” Local cities, school districts and the county have recently completed their 2024 budgets, and soon, property owners will receive their annual property tax statements.Of course, none of us like to pay taxes, and there are few issues that generate more indigestion, but at the risk of creating heartburn, I thought I would provide some data that I believe is relevant.I often hear the comment that “taxes are too high in Hays.” When I hear this, my initial thought is compared to what? Compared to other Kansas communities our size? Compared to what they were a few years ago? It isn’t reasonable to say something is too high without some basis for comparison.The chart below reflects comparable communities across Kansas, the median listing price of homes for sale (per Realtor.com), their mill levies, and corresponding property taxes experienced in those communities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699022903433.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We compare very well with these communities in terms of property tax costs.Taxpayers in the city of Hays have long enjoyed one of the lowest mill levies in the state. There are several reasons for this.●	In 2004, the residents of the city of Hays voted to fund the city general fund via sales tax versus property taxes. This has resulted in a reduction in the city levy to about 25 mills since that time. ●	Ellis County is consistently the top oil-producing county in the state of Kansas. In 2022, oil properties comprised 8.52 percent of the county's taxable valuation. The property taxes paid on these oil properties result in lower overall property taxes for other property owners. ●	For 40 years, the residents of USD 489 chose not to invest in school facilities. By doing so, the levy for USD 489 remained low. However, the bill came due, and in May of 2022, a $143.5 million bond was passed, resulting in an 11 mill levy increase.Another consideration is where our property tax dollars go. Below is a chart reflecting the break out of the levies by the various entities and the percentage of the property tax bill they represent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699023022713.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Undoubtedly, increased costs of all types create a hardship for low and fixed-income residents, and this is an ongoing challenge. However, in my experience, Hays city commissioners, Ellis County commissioners, USD 489 board members, and their staffs do a very good job making financially prudent decisions and managing costs. They are mindful of spending and invest public funds wisely.Property taxes fund much in our community, including schools, streets,&nbsp;county roads and bridges, fire departments, city and county law enforcement,&nbsp;parks and recreation, libraries, and many other quality-of-life amenities. We&nbsp;have a wonderful community and much to be thankful for, but Benjamin&nbsp;Franklin was right. “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.”— Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays