In an effort to continue bolstering leadership in Ellis County and beyond The Chamber in Hays, Kansas is currently working to secure grant funding that will allow participants to experience leadership training from the Kansas Leadership Center.

This grant offers an opportunity for area individuals, businesses and organizations to enhance their leadership skills and drive positive change.

Chamber President/CEO Sarah Wasinger said the significance of this initiative is in shaping the future of leadership in Kansas.

"Leadership is the cornerstone of progress, and the Leadership Transformation Grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to become catalysts for positive change,” Wasinger said. “With Kansas Leadership Center's renowned courses and this grant's support, we are equipping Kansas leaders to tackle the challenges of our rapidly evolving world."

These courses are designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to excel in leadership roles. It's important to note that participants must attend these courses in consecutive order to maximize their leadership development.

And KLC’s Path for Leadership is undergoing a transformation in 2024, featuring three distinct courses:

· When Everyone Leads · Your Leadership Edge · Lead for Change

The Leadership Transformation Grant covers the registration cost of these courses, which typically ranges between $400 and $800 per course. This financial assistance ensures that participants can access invaluable leadership training without the financial burden.

However, it's important to note that travel expenses, books, and materials necessary for the courses will be the responsibility of the participants or their sponsoring entities.

To accommodate diverse needs and preferences, KLC will offer a variety of options for course delivery, including virtual and in-person classes in Wichita.

These options make it convenient for individuals from different parts of the state to access the high-quality leadership training provided by KLC.

In order to streamline the application process and ensure sufficient spaces for all interested members, the Chamber encourages its member investors to submit their requests for course spaces.

To do this, interested parties are requested to email their space requirements to hayscc@hayschamber.com by the end of the business day on October 20.

For those seeking additional information about the Leadership Transformation Grant or the Kansas Leadership Center courses, please contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas at 785- 628-8201.

The Chamber staff is eager to provide guidance and assist with any inquiries regarding this exciting opportunity.

“The Leadership Transformation Grant represents a commitment to fostering leadership excellence in Kansas,” Wasinger said. “By providing access to the center's renowned leadership courses, the grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to drive positive change, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/4/1556659458724-business.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays ChamberIn an effort to continue bolstering leadership in Ellis County and beyond The Chamber in Hays, Kansas is currently working to secure grant funding that will allow participants to experience leadership training from the Kansas Leadership Center.This grant offers an opportunity for area individuals, businesses and organizations to enhance their leadership skills and drive positive change.Chamber President/CEO Sarah Wasinger said the significance of this initiative is in shaping the future of leadership in Kansas."Leadership is the cornerstone of progress, and the Leadership Transformation Grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to become catalysts for positive change,” Wasinger said. “With Kansas Leadership Center's renowned courses and this grant's support, we are equipping Kansas leaders to tackle the challenges of our rapidly evolving world."These courses are designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to excel in leadership roles. It's important to note that participants must attend these courses in consecutive order to maximize their leadership development.And KLC’s Path for Leadership is undergoing a transformation in 2024, featuring three distinct courses:· When Everyone Leads · Your Leadership Edge · Lead for Change The Leadership Transformation Grant covers the registration cost of these courses, which typically ranges between $400 and $800 per course. This financial assistance ensures that participants can access invaluable leadership training without the financial burden.However, it's important to note that travel expenses, books, and materials necessary for the courses will be the responsibility of the participants or their sponsoring entities.To accommodate diverse needs and preferences, KLC will offer a variety of options for course delivery, including virtual and in-person classes in Wichita.These options make it convenient for individuals from different parts of the state to access the high-quality leadership training provided by KLC.In order to streamline the application process and ensure sufficient spaces for all interested members, the Chamber encourages its member investors to submit their requests for course spaces.To do this, interested parties are requested to email their space requirements to hayscc@hayschamber.com by the end of the business day on October 20.For those seeking additional information about the Leadership Transformation Grant or the Kansas Leadership Center courses, please contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas at 785- 628-8201.The Chamber staff is eager to provide guidance and assist with any inquiries regarding this exciting opportunity.“The Leadership Transformation Grant represents a commitment to fostering leadership excellence in Kansas,” Wasinger said. “By providing access to the center's renowned leadership courses, the grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to drive positive change, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.”

Hays Chamber seeks leadership grant; members encouraged to reserve spots

<a href="https://firstcareclinic.com/">First Care Clinic</a> is pleased to announce that Alexis Ibarra, APRN, has joined its medical staff.

Alexis obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Fort Hays State University. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

“We are excited to welcome Lexi to our staff. We look forward to her contributions as we continue to grow and expand our patient services,” said Eric Flax, CEO.

“Lexi did her clinical preceptorship with First Care Clinic, and we were so impressed that we offered her a position in our clinic. She is very knowledgeable and is kind and compassionate with patients. We are very fortunate to have her,” stated Dr. Christine Fisher, medical director.

First Care Clinic welcomes all patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is also available to those who qualify. Patients can request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at 785-621-4990. Established patients can also self-schedule express care visits on our website. Book a time and skip the line!

First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. We provide general medical care, mental health services and general dentistry.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697056535910.jpeg" alt="Alexis Ibarra&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Alexis Ibarra&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>First Care Clinic<a href="https://firstcareclinic.com/">First Care Clinic</a> is pleased to announce that Alexis Ibarra, APRN, has joined its medical staff. Alexis obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Fort Hays State University. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.“We are excited to welcome Lexi to our staff. We look forward to her contributions as we continue to grow and expand our patient services,” said Eric Flax, CEO.“Lexi did her clinical preceptorship with First Care Clinic, and we were so impressed that we offered her a position in our clinic. She is very knowledgeable and is kind and compassionate with patients. We are very fortunate to have her,” stated Dr. Christine Fisher, medical director.First Care Clinic welcomes all patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is also available to those who qualify. Patients can request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at 785-621-4990. Established patients can also self-schedule express care visits on our website. Book a time and skip the line!ABOUT FIRST CARE CLINIC, INC.First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. We provide general medical care, mental health services and general dentistry.

First Care Clinic welcomes new nurse practitioner

FHSU is hiring multiple Skilled Trades Technician positions in the Energy Division and recently announced a pay grade increase to $19 per hour.

Training available for the right responsible and reliable individual.

These positions perform operation, maintenance and repair of industrial equipment as in boilers, generators, pumps and valves. Work involves all aspects of boiler operation and steam distribution to include general maintenance and repair of related Energy Division/Power Plant equipment. Follow written and oral procedures, reading and recording gauges and water testing.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency. One year of experience in a skilled craft area. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the university.

Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit resume and names and contact information for three professional references. Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.

Find more details and application instructions at: https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578077978142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State UniversityFHSU is hiring multiple Skilled Trades Technician positions in the Energy Division and recently announced a pay grade increase to $19 per hour.Training available for the right responsible and reliable individual.These positions perform operation, maintenance and repair of industrial equipment as in boilers, generators, pumps and valves. Work involves all aspects of boiler operation and steam distribution to include general maintenance and repair of related Energy Division/Power Plant equipment. Follow written and oral procedures, reading and recording gauges and water testing.Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency. One year of experience in a skilled craft area. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the university.Many perks and excellent benefits!Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit resume and names and contact information for three professional references. Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.Find more details and application instructions at: https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS

Man hospitalized after car strikes construction sign on I-70

<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/2023/10/1697262238597.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 this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney discusses the ongoing development in the Heart of America Tallgrass Addition with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams.

<div><iframe title="Development continues in Hays Tallgrass Addition" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=x2w5m-14d1004-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney discusses the ongoing development in the Heart of America Tallgrass Addition with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams.

🎙 Post Podcast: Development continues in Hays Tallgrass Addition

Somewhere on my lengthy list of unanswered questions is the query that asks “Just how far will we go to protect ourselves from ourselves?” 

Don’t get me wrong, there are some very necessary warnings out there, like huge letters on a tank of gasoline that read “FLAMMABLE,” or flags that tell us “Road Work Ahead.” But for every good and reasonable warning are a dozen other absolutely wacky warnings that leave us shaking our head.

The thing to remember about wacky warnings is that they got there because someone, somewhere, actually did what the warnings tell you not to do. So, someone somewhere tried eating that deodorant stick before the warning “Do Not Ingest” was put there, and so on and so forth. I’m convinced the need for most wacky warnings come about as dares, and are preceded by those four infamous little words, “here, hold my beer.”

The outdoor industry is not immune to wacky warnings and offers plenty of products that bear them. 

The owner’s manual for a new gun I bought says “Appropriate use for this firearm means using your firearm for legal purposes.” So evidently criminals using guns to commit crimes haven’t read the owner’s manual first? “Always keep fingers and other body parts away from the muzzle” is another firearm warning. I already know there’s a hole in the end of the barrel where that thing comes out, oh now what’s it called?…Oh yeah, the bullet, so I shouldn’t have to feel around there with my finger to find it, and I can’t imagine what other body parts the warning means. The manual for my crossbow tells me “Always THINK before you shoot.” Now why’d they have to go and open that can-a-worms?

And speaking of worms, I found “Not for human consumption” on all fish bait, whether artificially made from who-knows-what, or catfish stink bait made from blood, liver and other organic stuff.

 Now I may have had this fishin’ thing wrong all along. I’ve always thought the goal was to use the bait to catch fish to take home and eat, not to sit in the boat and eat the bait. Part of the fun of fishing for me has always been takin’ along a nice picnic lunch or at least snacks. I really can’t picture myself taking a loaf of bread and making sandwiches by spreading slices of bread with stinky catfish bait. On one brand of catfish stink bait, I found the warning “Beware, dogs love this stuff.” Not sure I’d have put that on the jar if my goal was to sell that bait to fishermen to actually catch fish. 

And I’m not sure why I should “Beware” that my dog might love it. 

Should I “Beware” because all my expensive bait might disappear, and show up later that night as chunks all over the couch that now smell worse than the bait, or because the dog could grow fins and swim away down the river? One particular artificial bait made by the Berkley Company looks like crayfish packed in a pouch of liquid of some sort. It’s called “Gulp Alive” and the warning reads “Looks alive, Feels alive, Tastes alive; not for human consumption.” Now, to a good-ole’-boy out for a relaxing day on the water, that’s like dealing him all four aces and asking him not to play them!

On canisters of black powder used for muzzle loading guns I found this odd warning “Caution, do not eat, drink or smoke around this product.” Now, a warning against smoking anywhere near gun powder is one of those things that should never have to be said, but why not eat or drink around black powder? I have to remind myself again that these warnings usually come about because of some actual event.

Maybe someone, somewhere was once enjoying a sandwich while loading their muzzleloader, unknowingly ingested some black powder from the air along with the sandwich, and the next morning while completing their morning constitutional, blew the outhouse into the next county.

Perhaps the product I was most surprised to find warnings on were the little hand, foot and toe warmers that you stick inside your gloves or boots. 

The warning read “Caution, for external use only. Do not allow contents to contact eyes or mouth.” OK, not quite sure what to say about the “external use only” part of the warning, but I must say how disappointed I am that I can’t eat hand warmers! Yes, there have been a few times while sitting in a deer blind when I’ve neglected to pack a snack and wished I had just a little something to nibble on, but I can honestly say I’ve never considered chomping on my hand or foot warmers. As for the rest of the warning, I can’t remember the last time my mouth or eyes got cold and I considered putting a hand or foot warmer on them.

My warning to you readers is that reading this column will either make you pee your pants with laughter or put you to sleep, hopefully not both at the same time. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Somewhere on my lengthy list of unanswered questions is the query that asks “Just how far will we go to protect ourselves from ourselves?” Don’t get me wrong, there are some very necessary warnings out there, like huge letters on a tank of gasoline that read “FLAMMABLE,” or flags that tell us “Road Work Ahead.” But for every good and reasonable warning are a dozen other absolutely wacky warnings that leave us shaking our head.The thing to remember about wacky warnings is that they got there because someone, somewhere, actually did what the warnings tell you not to do. So, someone somewhere tried eating that deodorant stick before the warning “Do Not Ingest” was put there, and so on and so forth. I’m convinced the need for most wacky warnings come about as dares, and are preceded by those four infamous little words, “here, hold my beer.”The outdoor industry is not immune to wacky warnings and offers plenty of products that bear them. The owner’s manual for a new gun I bought says “Appropriate use for this firearm means using your firearm for legal purposes.” So evidently criminals using guns to commit crimes haven’t read the owner’s manual first? “Always keep fingers and other body parts away from the muzzle” is another firearm warning. I already know there’s a hole in the end of the barrel where that thing comes out, oh now what’s it called?…Oh yeah, the bullet, so I shouldn’t have to feel around there with my finger to find it, and I can’t imagine what other body parts the warning means. The manual for my crossbow tells me “Always THINK before you shoot.” Now why’d they have to go and open that can-a-worms?And speaking of worms, I found “Not for human consumption” on all fish bait, whether artificially made from who-knows-what, or catfish stink bait made from blood, liver and other organic stuff. Now I may have had this fishin’ thing wrong all along. I’ve always thought the goal was to use the bait to catch fish to take home and eat, not to sit in the boat and eat the bait. Part of the fun of fishing for me has always been takin’ along a nice picnic lunch or at least snacks. I really can’t picture myself taking a loaf of bread and making sandwiches by spreading slices of bread with stinky catfish bait. On one brand of catfish stink bait, I found the warning “Beware, dogs love this stuff.” Not sure I’d have put that on the jar if my goal was to sell that bait to fishermen to actually catch fish. And I’m not sure why I should “Beware” that my dog might love it. Should I “Beware” because all my expensive bait might disappear, and show up later that night as chunks all over the couch that now smell worse than the bait, or because the dog could grow fins and swim away down the river? One particular artificial bait made by the Berkley Company looks like crayfish packed in a pouch of liquid of some sort. It’s called “Gulp Alive” and the warning reads “Looks alive, Feels alive, Tastes alive; not for human consumption.” Now, to a good-ole’-boy out for a relaxing day on the water, that’s like dealing him all four aces and asking him not to play them!On canisters of black powder used for muzzle loading guns I found this odd warning “Caution, do not eat, drink or smoke around this product.” Now, a warning against smoking anywhere near gun powder is one of those things that should never have to be said, but why not eat or drink around black powder? I have to remind myself again that these warnings usually come about because of some actual event.Maybe someone, somewhere was once enjoying a sandwich while loading their muzzleloader, unknowingly ingested some black powder from the air along with the sandwich, and the next morning while completing their morning constitutional, blew the outhouse into the next county.Perhaps the product I was most surprised to find warnings on were the little hand, foot and toe warmers that you stick inside your gloves or boots. The warning read “Caution, for external use only. Do not allow contents to contact eyes or mouth.” OK, not quite sure what to say about the “external use only” part of the warning, but I must say how disappointed I am that I can’t eat hand warmers! Yes, there have been a few times while sitting in a deer blind when I’ve neglected to pack a snack and wished I had just a little something to nibble on, but I can honestly say I’ve never considered chomping on my hand or foot warmers. As for the rest of the warning, I can’t remember the last time my mouth or eyes got cold and I considered putting a hand or foot warmer on them.Warnings. You gotta’ love em.’ My warning to you readers is that reading this column will either make you pee your pants with laughter or put you to sleep, hopefully not both at the same time. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at&nbsp;stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoor Kansas: Wacky warnings

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's one of the most inexpensive and easy-to-do hobbies you can have.

Hays resident Diana Pantle has been enjoying it close to 20 years and now wants to share her hobby with other people.&nbsp;

A new chapter of Audubon of Kansas, Sunflower Audubon, is being organized by Pantel and a small core group of birdwatchers in Hays.&nbsp;

The coverage area, however, extends much further than the city limits.

Pantle is working with Jackie Augustine, Audubon of Kansas executive director in Manhattan, who saw a need for the chapter to cover a regional area, including Ellis, Trego, Rooks, Russell, Smith, Osborne, Phillips, Graham, Norton, and Russell counties.

For now, Barton and Ness counties will also be included until a former chapter for that location is reinstated.

"I foresee that if we can get some interest, we can go up to Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge, maybe Wilson Lake and Cedar Bluff Reservoir," Pantle said. "I'm very open to taking bird walks outside of the Hays area. Since we cover such a large number of counties, I'm open to going anywhere with like-minded people."

Her own interest in bird watching stems from being a gardener and putting up bird feeders in her yard.

Pantle moved to Hays almost six years ago from Colorado where she lived close to&nbsp;Barr Lake State Park just outside the city of Brighton. There she was able to enjoy a multitude of birds and wildlife and go on many bird walks.

The Hays area has a multitude of birds as well, she found, and more than those ever-present house sparrows. There just weren't a lot of bird walks.&nbsp;

"The prairie chickens make their home around here because they need those shortgrass prairies," Pantle said. "They don't like a lot of trees because that allows predators access to them, so they like the prairie, and many birds do, including probably our most famous resident, the meadowlark.

"It's a very good area for a different type of birding."

Birders themselves are also of a large variety, Pantle said.

"It's age-friendly for everybody, including kids. You can see a bird anywhere. ... The only equipment you need is a good pair of shoes," she said.

The hobby gets people outdoors, which is where Pantle said she prefers to be, but you don't even have to leave your home to watch birds.

"It's not difficult. It's an easy activity that anyone can do it," she said. "Someone who's housebound can birdwatch from their window.  It's not limited to somebody who's going out for a walk."

You also don't have to have binoculars unless you want a good closeup view of a bird.

"Toilet paper rolls held up to your eyes will block your peripheral vision and allow your brain to really see something right in front of you. It trains your eye how to use the binoculars," she said.

"Maybe you won't get a closeup of a downy woodpecker, but you'll know it's there. You'll hear it sing.

"If you want to invest in a pair of binoculars, fine, but it's not required to go birding. And, there's usually someone with you that'll allow you to use theirs," Pantle said.

Pantle has been birding long enough she's gone from using printed books with pictures to identify a bird to downloadable computer apps now available for her Kindle.

Sunflower Audubon will host an informal organizational meeting for interested birders at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct 24. at <a href="https://www.professorssandwichshop.com/">Professor's Classic Sandwich Shop</a>, 521 E. 11th, Hays. Co-owner Amy Jensen is one of the group's original members.&nbsp;

A bird walk is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History Dr. Howard Reynolds Nature Trail.&nbsp;

The group also hopes to be part of the National Audubon Society's Christmas Bird Count in December.&nbsp;

More information is available by contacting Pantle by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dfpjoker16@gmail.com">dfpjoker16@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;

Sunflower Audubon also has a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/310352108338837">Facebook page,&nbsp;</a>which will soon be made public.&nbsp;

"I think people have the impression you need to know what kind of bird it is to enjoy seeing it. You don't," Pantle said. "Go out and listen to the symphony of nature. ... It doesn't have to be about knowing how many birds you saw today."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697237206105.jpeg" alt="Sunflower Audubon at a recent bird walk on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sunflower Audubon at a recent bird walk on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's one of the most inexpensive and easy-to-do hobbies you can have.Birdwatching.Hays resident Diana Pantle has been enjoying it close to 20 years and now wants to share her hobby with other people.&nbsp;A new chapter of Audubon of Kansas, Sunflower Audubon, is being organized by Pantel and a small core group of birdwatchers in Hays.&nbsp;The coverage area, however, extends much further than the city limits.Pantle is working with Jackie Augustine, Audubon of Kansas executive director in Manhattan, who saw a need for the chapter to cover a regional area, including Ellis, Trego, Rooks, Russell, Smith, Osborne, Phillips, Graham, Norton, and Russell counties.For now, Barton and Ness counties will also be included until a former chapter for that location is reinstated."I foresee that if we can get some interest, we can go up to Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge, maybe Wilson Lake and Cedar Bluff Reservoir," Pantle said. "I'm very open to taking bird walks outside of the Hays area. Since we cover such a large number of counties, I'm open to going anywhere with like-minded people."Her own interest in bird watching stems from being a gardener and putting up bird feeders in her yard.Pantle moved to Hays almost six years ago from Colorado where she lived close to&nbsp;Barr Lake State Park just outside the city of Brighton. There she was able to enjoy a multitude of birds and wildlife and go on many bird walks.The Hays area has a multitude of birds as well, she found, and more than those ever-present house sparrows. There just weren't a lot of bird walks.&nbsp;"The prairie chickens make their home around here because they need those shortgrass prairies," Pantle said. "They don't like a lot of trees because that allows predators access to them, so they like the prairie, and many birds do, including probably our most famous resident, the meadowlark."It's a very good area for a different type of birding."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/riyN_AMTwx0"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Birders themselves are also of a large variety, Pantle said."It's age-friendly for everybody, including kids. You can see a bird anywhere. ... The only equipment you need is a good pair of shoes," she said.The hobby gets people outdoors, which is where Pantle said she prefers to be, but you don't even have to leave your home to watch birds."It's not difficult. It's an easy activity that anyone can do it," she said. "Someone who's housebound can birdwatch from their window. It's not limited to somebody who's going out for a walk."You also don't have to have binoculars unless you want a good closeup view of a bird."Toilet paper rolls held up to your eyes will block your peripheral vision and allow your brain to really see something right in front of you. It trains your eye how to use the binoculars," she said."Maybe you won't get a closeup of a downy woodpecker, but you'll know it's there. You'll hear it sing."If you want to invest in a pair of binoculars, fine, but it's not required to go birding. And, there's usually someone with you that'll allow you to use theirs," Pantle said.Pantle has been birding long enough she's gone from using printed books with pictures to identify a bird to downloadable computer apps now available for her Kindle.Sunflower Audubon will host an informal organizational meeting for interested birders at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct 24. at <a href="https://www.professorssandwichshop.com/">Professor's Classic Sandwich Shop</a>, 521 E. 11th, Hays. Co-owner Amy Jensen is one of the group's original members.&nbsp;A bird walk is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History Dr. Howard Reynolds Nature Trail.&nbsp;The group also hopes to be part of the National Audubon Society's Christmas Bird Count in December.&nbsp;More information is available by contacting Pantle by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dfpjoker16@gmail.com">dfpjoker16@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;Sunflower Audubon also has a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/310352108338837">Facebook page,&nbsp;</a>which will soon be made public.&nbsp;"I think people have the impression you need to know what kind of bird it is to enjoy seeing it. You don't," Pantle said. "Go out and listen to the symphony of nature. ... It doesn't have to be about knowing how many birds you saw today."

🎥 Fledgling Sunflower Audubon chapter works to take flight with new members

LAWRENCE — Beginning Oct. 2, people with disabilities are invited to participate in a national study based at the University of Kansas that aims to document their experiences with a variety of issues, including access to health care, housing, long COVID, transportation, employment and connection to their community.

The National Survey on Health and Disability (NSHD) has gathered detailed, nationwide information on U.S. adults with disabilities and their experiences with health insurance and health care services since 2018. It is funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research and directed by Jean Hall, who leads the KU Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies (IHDPS) at the KU Life Span Institute.

“This project gives voice to the concerns of people with disabilities,” Hall said. “This year, we hope the information people provide will tell us whether access to health care has gotten worse for any subgroups of people with disabilities, whether those are people who are LGBTQ+, or people of color, or people of a certain age, or people who live in a certain geographic area. The survey will help us identify if that's happening.”

The NSHD continues to gather information this year about people’s experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, including long COVID and its effects on their quality of life, health care access and employment.

Individuals can specify&nbsp;<a href="https://ihdps.ku.edu/health-disability-survey">how they would like to participate in the survey</a>, whether online or by phone, and whether they would like to receive a link via email or text.

“KU researchers share de-identified NSHD data and findings with other researchers and policymakers to inform and guide programs and services,” said Noelle Kurth, co-investigator for the project. “The survey reinforces the philosophy of ‘nothing about us without us’ when it comes to making decisions that will affect the lives of people with disabilities.”

For example, researchers have used&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/2022/10/04/federal-surveys-missing-many-43-percent-individuals-disabilities-ku-study-finds">survey results</a>&nbsp;to determine that questions used in federal surveys to identify people with disabilities miss up to 20% of this population, especially those with mental illnesses. As a result, people with disabilities are likely undercounted and their needs underestimated.

“That, in turn, can affect the funds invested in serving the population,” Kurth said.

Using data from the NSHD, researchers have previously documented that people with a variety of disabilities report being denied care outright by physicians and other medical providers. The NSHD has shown that people with disabilities who are also LGBTQ+ experience worse health and poorer access to health care than straight, cisgender people with disabilities.

The survey also has documented that people who acquire disabilities later in life tend to have poorer health and greater health care expenditures than people who become disabled earlier in life.

“To understand the needs of underrepresented communities, we need data,” Hall said. “We want to hear directly from individuals with disabilities and quantify what exactly is happening and what needs to change to improve their quality of life."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696433135468.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — Beginning Oct. 2, people with disabilities are invited to participate in a national study based at the University of Kansas that aims to document their experiences with a variety of issues, including access to health care, housing, long COVID, transportation, employment and connection to their community.The National Survey on Health and Disability (NSHD) has gathered detailed, nationwide information on U.S. adults with disabilities and their experiences with health insurance and health care services since 2018. It is funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research and directed by Jean Hall, who leads the KU Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies (IHDPS) at the KU Life Span Institute.“This project gives voice to the concerns of people with disabilities,” Hall said. “This year, we hope the information people provide will tell us whether access to health care has gotten worse for any subgroups of people with disabilities, whether those are people who are LGBTQ+, or people of color, or people of a certain age, or people who live in a certain geographic area. The survey will help us identify if that's happening.”The NSHD continues to gather information this year about people’s experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, including long COVID and its effects on their quality of life, health care access and employment.Individuals can specify&nbsp;<a href="https://ihdps.ku.edu/health-disability-survey">how they would like to participate in the survey</a>, whether online or by phone, and whether they would like to receive a link via email or text.“KU researchers share de-identified NSHD data and findings with other researchers and policymakers to inform and guide programs and services,” said Noelle Kurth, co-investigator for the project. “The survey reinforces the philosophy of ‘nothing about us without us’ when it comes to making decisions that will affect the lives of people with disabilities.”For example, researchers have used&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/2022/10/04/federal-surveys-missing-many-43-percent-individuals-disabilities-ku-study-finds">survey results</a>&nbsp;to determine that questions used in federal surveys to identify people with disabilities miss up to 20% of this population, especially those with mental illnesses. As a result, people with disabilities are likely undercounted and their needs underestimated.“That, in turn, can affect the funds invested in serving the population,” Kurth said.Using data from the NSHD, researchers have previously documented that people with a variety of disabilities report being denied care outright by physicians and other medical providers. The NSHD has shown that people with disabilities who are also LGBTQ+ experience worse health and poorer access to health care than straight, cisgender people with disabilities.The survey also has documented that people who acquire disabilities later in life tend to have poorer health and greater health care expenditures than people who become disabled earlier in life.“To understand the needs of underrepresented communities, we need data,” Hall said. “We want to hear directly from individuals with disabilities and quantify what exactly is happening and what needs to change to improve their quality of life."&nbsp;

KU-led national study asks people with disabilities to document their experiences

Last week, a bipartisan commission of former state lawmakers finished working on and recommended a solution to a long-standing problem: Kansas’s terrible legislative pay scale.

Currently our state legislature, which is officially supposed to meet for only about 90 days—but which actually often involves much more work than that, frequently spread throughout the whole year—pays its members a base salary of only $27,000. While the coverage of per diem expenses does allow for some variability, still, when all the costs of traveling and housing are added up, Kansas lawmakers are some of the worst paid in the whole country.

The former legislators who met to find a solution to this issue were fully aware of the problem. Some had stories of juggling multiple temp jobs to make ends meet when not in session, while others noted how the current system unintentionally biases the legislature, often limiting those who aspire to run for office to those who can afford the pay cut or already have job security, meaning that retired or independently wealthy candidates predominate. And don’t forget the temptation which poorly paid politicians face when well-financed special interests come calling!

The recommendation of the commission to increase the base salary of legislators to $43,000, with a built-in provision for annual salary adjustments, should be applauded and implemented immediately. More than that, it should lead us to reflect upon our expectations for those elected to office, and whether they’re worth paying for.

Across the United States, the notion of a “citizen legislature” has always had a strong hold. Rooted in small-r republican, localist, and agrarian convictions, it is the idea that those who represent voters should be discouraged from developing any serious involvement with their civic role, and should treat government work as a temporary act of public service instead.

Whatever the value of that vision, its perpetuation despite massive changes in economics, technology, and urbanization over the past century and half is a hindrance to thinking clearly about the political choices which confront voters, where political experience, policy knowledge, and government training needs to be balanced with maintaining local, democratic connections.

Many states recognize this, at least when it comes to matters of compensation. Only 14 states (Kansas included) hold to a genuinely “part-time” model in how they define legislative duties; even states with legislatures that meet only once every two years tend to have hybrid systems, recognizing that legislators put in significant hours and deserve to be paid accordingly.

That those we elect need to stay close to and be responsive to those who elect them is a central feature of democratic accountability. But there are ways of thinking about accountability which still acknowledge the specialized skills that good public servants develop, and the steep learning curve they go through to get there.

 Imagining politics as a permanent entry-level job, idealizing the inexperienced as somehow more “authentic,” is the sort of delusion which may bring voters to wrongly see practical legislative work as an annoying distraction, unworthy of support (even while continuing to unreflectively re-elect incumbents whose name or party or face they trust).

In the end, the truth is that politicians do real, complicated work, and while in office ought to be regarded as engaged in a full-time profession. More realism in how we view our representatives

(and how we pay them) would, perhaps, enable us to better assess their performance—and would likely provide us with more diverse alternatives to choose from when elections roll around.

Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586443443315.jpeg" alt="Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita." />
 <figcaption>Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last week, a bipartisan commission of former state lawmakers finished working on and recommended a solution to a long-standing problem: Kansas’s terrible legislative pay scale.Currently our state legislature, which is officially supposed to meet for only about 90 days—but which actually often involves much more work than that, frequently spread throughout the whole year—pays its members a base salary of only $27,000. While the coverage of per diem expenses does allow for some variability, still, when all the costs of traveling and housing are added up, Kansas lawmakers are some of the worst paid in the whole country.The former legislators who met to find a solution to this issue were fully aware of the problem. Some had stories of juggling multiple temp jobs to make ends meet when not in session, while others noted how the current system unintentionally biases the legislature, often limiting those who aspire to run for office to those who can afford the pay cut or already have job security, meaning that retired or independently wealthy candidates predominate. And don’t forget the temptation which poorly paid politicians face when well-financed special interests come calling!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The recommendation of the commission to increase the base salary of legislators to $43,000, with a built-in provision for annual salary adjustments, should be applauded and implemented immediately. More than that, it should lead us to reflect upon our expectations for those elected to office, and whether they’re worth paying for.Across the United States, the notion of a “citizen legislature” has always had a strong hold. Rooted in small-r republican, localist, and agrarian convictions, it is the idea that those who represent voters should be discouraged from developing any serious involvement with their civic role, and should treat government work as a temporary act of public service instead.Whatever the value of that vision, its perpetuation despite massive changes in economics, technology, and urbanization over the past century and half is a hindrance to thinking clearly about the political choices which confront voters, where political experience, policy knowledge, and government training needs to be balanced with maintaining local, democratic connections.Many states recognize this, at least when it comes to matters of compensation. Only 14 states (Kansas included) hold to a genuinely “part-time” model in how they define legislative duties; even states with legislatures that meet only once every two years tend to have hybrid systems, recognizing that legislators put in significant hours and deserve to be paid accordingly.That those we elect need to stay close to and be responsive to those who elect them is a central feature of democratic accountability. But there are ways of thinking about accountability which still acknowledge the specialized skills that good public servants develop, and the steep learning curve they go through to get there. Imagining politics as a permanent entry-level job, idealizing the inexperienced as somehow more “authentic,” is the sort of delusion which may bring voters to wrongly see practical legislative work as an annoying distraction, unworthy of support (even while continuing to unreflectively re-elect incumbents whose name or party or face they trust).In the end, the truth is that politicians do real, complicated work, and while in office ought to be regarded as engaged in a full-time profession. More realism in how we view our representatives(and how we pay them) would, perhaps, enable us to better assess their performance—and would likely provide us with more diverse alternatives to choose from when elections roll around.Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Politics is a profession worth paying for

PRATT&nbsp;– The wait for Kansas’ top hunting-related publications is over. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has confirmed that the state’s&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary&nbsp;and&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Atlas&nbsp;are available now.&nbsp;Both publications are free, available online at<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/"> ksoutdoors.com</a>, and in print at nearly all license vendor locations. Hunters may also request mailed copies by calling 620- 672-5911.

The hunting regulations summary includes common rules, methods of take, season dates, bag and possession limits, as well as a list of game wardens by county, and more.

The hunting atlas includes maps of all publicly accessible hunting land in Kansas, to include Walk-in Hunting Access areas, state and federal public wildlife areas, and more. And soon, Garmin GPS and Google Earth files will be available for download, making finding a place to hunt even easier.

To access electronic versions of the&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary&nbsp;and&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Atlas, visit ksoutdoors.com or download the Go Outdoors KS mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0tEV1AtTW9iaWxlLUFwcHMvR29PdXRkb29yc0tTLU1vYmlsZS1BcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODMwLjgxODg4NTkxIn0.xqBAgMR_OghkFK9PB3OMrLMgzp4rTHGYR71078dDnRw/s/1303161001/br/225051872263-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Whether you decide to keep them on your phone, laptop, or hardcopies in the truck or boat, no hunter in Kansas should be without them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696431023530.png" alt="Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– The wait for Kansas’ top hunting-related publications is over. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has confirmed that the state’s&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary&nbsp;and&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Atlas&nbsp;are available now.&nbsp;Both publications are free, available online at<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/"> ksoutdoors.com</a>, and in print at nearly all license vendor locations. Hunters may also request mailed copies by calling 620- 672-5911.The hunting regulations summary includes common rules, methods of take, season dates, bag and possession limits, as well as a list of game wardens by county, and more.The hunting atlas includes maps of all publicly accessible hunting land in Kansas, to include Walk-in Hunting Access areas, state and federal public wildlife areas, and more. And soon, Garmin GPS and Google Earth files will be available for download, making finding a place to hunt even easier.To access electronic versions of the&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary&nbsp;and&nbsp;2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Atlas, visit ksoutdoors.com or download the Go Outdoors KS mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0tEV1AtTW9iaWxlLUFwcHMvR29PdXRkb29yc0tTLU1vYmlsZS1BcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODMwLjgxODg4NTkxIn0.xqBAgMR_OghkFK9PB3OMrLMgzp4rTHGYR71078dDnRw/s/1303161001/br/225051872263-l" target="_blank">here</a>.Whether you decide to keep them on your phone, laptop, or hardcopies in the truck or boat, no hunter in Kansas should be without them.

Get your 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Regulations Summary, Hunting Atlas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697262201187.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>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays City Commission approves plat for The Grove housing project

As we approach the November 2023 general municipal election, I am encouraging Kansans to take advantage of the opportunity to serve as a poll worker at your county election office. 

Poll working is an excellent way to pursue civic engagement and learn more about our electoral process. 

Kansans who are 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, registered to vote and willing to complete training provided by the local election official can serve as poll workers. 

Additionally, Kansans as young as 16 years of age can serve as poll workers through our “Student Serves” initiative. 

The Secretary of State’s Office has partnered with various education organizations to encourage high school student participation. There are several benefits: students may receive minor compensation for their time, earn community service hours or extra credit for school, and participation makes students stand out on college and scholarship applications. 

I hope parents and teachers will urge their students to volunteer. 

Poll workers play a vital role and will have the opportunity to work with other members of the community and learn about the inner workings of Kansas elections. I urge all eligible Kansans to consider becoming a poll worker. 

For additional information about becoming a poll worker, please visit <a href="http://VoteKansas.gov">VoteKansas.gov</a>. If my office can be of any service to you, please do not hesitate to contact the office at 785-296-4564.

Respectfully, Scott Schwab Kansas Secretary of State&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662130465263.jpeg" alt="Scott Schwab in Hays. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Scott Schwab in Hays. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>As we approach the November 2023 general municipal election, I am encouraging Kansans to take advantage of the opportunity to serve as a poll worker at your county election office. Poll working is an excellent way to pursue civic engagement and learn more about our electoral process. Kansans who are 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, registered to vote and willing to complete training provided by the local election official can serve as poll workers. Additionally, Kansans as young as 16 years of age can serve as poll workers through our “Student Serves” initiative. The Secretary of State’s Office has partnered with various education organizations to encourage high school student participation. There are several benefits: students may receive minor compensation for their time, earn community service hours or extra credit for school, and participation makes students stand out on college and scholarship applications. I hope parents and teachers will urge their students to volunteer. Poll workers play a vital role and will have the opportunity to work with other members of the community and learn about the inner workings of Kansas elections. I urge all eligible Kansans to consider becoming a poll worker. For additional information about becoming a poll worker, please visit <a href="http://VoteKansas.gov">VoteKansas.gov</a>. If my office can be of any service to you, please do not hesitate to contact the office at 785-296-4564. Respectfully, Scott Schwab Kansas Secretary of State&nbsp;

LETTER: Opportunity for students to serve as poll workers for election

TOPEKA — Vehicle-deer crashes can happen any day of the year on Kansas roadways. Across the state, 37% of all single-vehicle crashes in 2022 involved a collision with a deer. The Kansas Department of Transportation reports six people were killed and 575 people were injured in collisions with deer in 2022.

These crashes greatly increase from now until the end of the year because of deer breeding season, with November typically the peak time.

This is why KDOT, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, AAA Kansas and the Kansas Turnpike Authority are joining to raise awareness and help decrease vehicle-deer crashes.

“If a deer enters the roadway in front of your car, it is best to hit the animal and not swerve to avoid it,” said KHP Captain Candice Breshears. “We find more serious crashes occur when you swerve to miss the deer, potentially losing control of your vehicle, leaving the road or veering into oncoming traffic.”

Roadway safety officials suggest drivers:

• Be alert and reduce speeds near wooded areas or green spaces and near water sources such as streams and ponds.

• Deer crossing signs show areas where high numbers of vehicle-deer collisions have occurred in the past; but they can happen on any roadway, including city streets.

• &nbsp;Do not swerve to avoid hitting a deer. Motorists could then veer into oncoming traffic, run off the road, hit objects or overturn.

 •&nbsp; Use bright headlights when there is no oncoming traffic and scan for the reflective eyes of deer.

• &nbsp;If a collision occurs, move the vehicle to the roadway’s shoulder. Then, if possible, call law enforcement – KHP dispatch at *47, the Kansas Turnpike at *KTA or local law enforcement at 911.

•&nbsp; Put the vehicle’s hazard lights on, whether it is light or dark outside.

•&nbsp; Remain in the vehicle with your seat belt fastened to be better protected.

•&nbsp; Contact your insurance company to report any vehicle damage.

Shawn Steward, public and government affairs manager for AAA Kansas, said deer can be unpredictable, so even the best drivers are at risk.

“In addition to the inconvenience of your vehicle damage, the cost of repairs may put a serious dent in your wallet,” Steward said. “AAA insurance statistics indicate that the average claim in Kansas for an animal strike in 2022 was almost $7,000 – up more than 60% in just five years.”

Anyone involved in a collision with a deer or other animal resulting in personal injury or property damage totaling $1,000 or more is required to immediately report the incident to the nearest law enforcement agency.

Nadia Marji, chief of public affairs and engagement officer for KDWP, said a common question to the agency is if a hunting license is needed to personally take a deer carcass from a crash scene.

“KDWP has a process in place for this through salvage tags,” Marji said. “A salvage tag is required to remove all or part of a deer carcass from an accident site and can be issued by a KDWP game warden, KHP trooper or sheriff’s deputy.”&nbsp;

Increase roadway safety this fall and throughout the year by staying alert, obeying posted laws and eliminating distractions while driving. Always wear a seat belt and use appropriate child safety seats, every trip, every time.

NOTE:&nbsp;Click this link,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi9Bc3NldHMvd3d3a3Nkb3RvcmcvSGVhZHF1YXJ0ZXJzL1BERl9GaWxlcy9wcmVzc3JlbGVhc2UyMDIzL1NUV0RfRGVlcl9BY2NzX2J5X0NvdW50eV8yMDIyLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDExLjgzODg4MzYxIn0.P73UuorJL-g_D35x0hIgI97Bye6IiU5sAq_B8qNC4ug/s/2129667357/br/227729716039-l" target="_blank">STWD_Deer_Accs_by_County_2022.pdf (ksdot.gov)</a>, to view the vehicle-deer statistics by county for 2022, with the statewide stats at the bottom of the file.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697125834531.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — Vehicle-deer crashes can happen any day of the year on Kansas roadways. Across the state, 37% of all single-vehicle crashes in 2022 involved a collision with a deer. The Kansas Department of Transportation reports six people were killed and 575 people were injured in collisions with deer in 2022.These crashes greatly increase from now until the end of the year because of deer breeding season, with November typically the peak time.This is why KDOT, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, AAA Kansas and the Kansas Turnpike Authority are joining to raise awareness and help decrease vehicle-deer crashes.“If a deer enters the roadway in front of your car, it is best to hit the animal and not swerve to avoid it,” said KHP Captain Candice Breshears. “We find more serious crashes occur when you swerve to miss the deer, potentially losing control of your vehicle, leaving the road or veering into oncoming traffic.”Roadway safety officials suggest drivers:• Be alert and reduce speeds near wooded areas or green spaces and near water sources such as streams and ponds. • Deer crossing signs show areas where high numbers of vehicle-deer collisions have occurred in the past; but they can happen on any roadway, including city streets. • &nbsp;Do not swerve to avoid hitting a deer. Motorists could then veer into oncoming traffic, run off the road, hit objects or overturn. •&nbsp; Use bright headlights when there is no oncoming traffic and scan for the reflective eyes of deer.• &nbsp;If a collision occurs, move the vehicle to the roadway’s shoulder. Then, if possible, call law enforcement – KHP dispatch at *47, the Kansas Turnpike at *KTA or local law enforcement at 911.•&nbsp; Put the vehicle’s hazard lights on, whether it is light or dark outside.•&nbsp; Remain in the vehicle with your seat belt fastened to be better protected.•&nbsp; Contact your insurance company to report any vehicle damage.Shawn Steward, public and government affairs manager for AAA Kansas, said deer can be unpredictable, so even the best drivers are at risk.“In addition to the inconvenience of your vehicle damage, the cost of repairs may put a serious dent in your wallet,” Steward said. “AAA insurance statistics indicate that the average claim in Kansas for an animal strike in 2022 was almost $7,000 – up more than 60% in just five years.”Anyone involved in a collision with a deer or other animal resulting in personal injury or property damage totaling $1,000 or more is required to immediately report the incident to the nearest law enforcement agency.Nadia Marji, chief of public affairs and engagement officer for KDWP, said a common question to the agency is if a hunting license is needed to personally take a deer carcass from a crash scene.“KDWP has a process in place for this through salvage tags,” Marji said. “A salvage tag is required to remove all or part of a deer carcass from an accident site and can be issued by a KDWP game warden, KHP trooper or sheriff’s deputy.”&nbsp;Increase roadway safety this fall and throughout the year by staying alert, obeying posted laws and eliminating distractions while driving. Always wear a seat belt and use appropriate child safety seats, every trip, every time.NOTE:&nbsp;Click this link,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi9Bc3NldHMvd3d3a3Nkb3RvcmcvSGVhZHF1YXJ0ZXJzL1BERl9GaWxlcy9wcmVzc3JlbGVhc2UyMDIzL1NUV0RfRGVlcl9BY2NzX2J5X0NvdW50eV8yMDIyLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDExLjgzODg4MzYxIn0.P73UuorJL-g_D35x0hIgI97Bye6IiU5sAq_B8qNC4ug/s/2129667357/br/227729716039-l" target="_blank">STWD_Deer_Accs_by_County_2022.pdf (ksdot.gov)</a>, to view the vehicle-deer statistics by county for 2022, with the statewide stats at the bottom of the file.

Motorists encouraged to be on the lookout for deer

PLAINVILLE — Congratulations to Jessie Tien, the occupational therapist at Rooks County Health Center, on being selected as a NextGen Under 30 awardee in the healthcare category.

NextGen Under 30 “recognizes and encourages the next generation of innovative, creative, and inspiring individuals who push the boundaries in demonstrating talent, drive and service to their communities.” Award winners are selected based upon their participation in and contribution to their communities. A panel of respected business and civic leaders serve as judges.

Recently, Tien had the opportunity to join other exceptional winners on a “Day at the Capitol” in Topeka, where she met with Lieutenant Governor David Toland and retired Kansas State Senator Tom Hawk, who were among those highlighting her achievements. She will formally be presented the award on October 20 at a special dinner ceremony in Wichita.

Asked to comment on the award, Tien said, “I am honored to be recognized as one of the exceptional young leaders of Kansas and strive to increase access to specialty therapy services offered in western Kansas. I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to continue employment at RCH while completing a virtual hand therapy fellowship to help me achieve these goals.”

Tien was born in Hays but is now a Plainville resident along with her husband Brady and their one-year-old daughter Charlotte.

The NextGen Under 30 mission is to identify and honor very talented young adults and to encourage them to follow their lifetime family and career goals in Kansas. For more information about NextGen Under 30, go to <a href="https://nextgenunder30ks.com/">https://nextgenunder30ks.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697033430959.jpeg" alt="Jessie Tien (Courtesy photo0" />
 <figcaption>Jessie Tien (Courtesy photo0</figcaption>
 </figure>RCHCPLAINVILLE — Congratulations to Jessie Tien, the occupational therapist at Rooks County Health Center, on being selected as a NextGen Under 30 awardee in the healthcare category.NextGen Under 30 “recognizes and encourages the next generation of innovative, creative, and inspiring individuals who push the boundaries in demonstrating talent, drive and service to their communities.” Award winners are selected based upon their participation in and contribution to their communities. A panel of respected business and civic leaders serve as judges.Recently, Tien had the opportunity to join other exceptional winners on a “Day at the Capitol” in Topeka, where she met with Lieutenant Governor David Toland and retired Kansas State Senator Tom Hawk, who were among those highlighting her achievements. She will formally be presented the award on October 20 at a special dinner ceremony in Wichita.Asked to comment on the award, Tien said, “I am honored to be recognized as one of the exceptional young leaders of Kansas and strive to increase access to specialty therapy services offered in western Kansas. I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to continue employment at RCH while completing a virtual hand therapy fellowship to help me achieve these goals.”Tien was born in Hays but is now a Plainville resident along with her husband Brady and their one-year-old daughter Charlotte.The NextGen Under 30 mission is to identify and honor very talented young adults and to encourage them to follow their lifetime family and career goals in Kansas. For more information about NextGen Under 30, go to <a href="https://nextgenunder30ks.com/">https://nextgenunder30ks.com</a>.

Rooks County Health Center occupational therapist receives statewide award

In less than a decade, there has been a shift in land ownership trends in Kansas.

“There is a growing demographic of landowners in Kansas that are becoming more geographically and generationally removed from agriculture,” said Robin Reid, an agricultural economist at Kansas State University.

Reid cites data from 2015 indicating that 85% of Kansas land was owned by people living in the state. Research is ongoing, she says, but in 2022, data suggests a notable shift in land being owned by people who live outside the state’s borders.

“Some of that is due to inheritance and some of that is due to people purchasing land – especially hunting ground,” Reid said. “But we also know the No. 1 question in our county extension offices across the state is from landowners wanting to know the going rates for land leases and information on Kansas lease law.” Reid said K-State is hosting the first-ever Kansas Landowner Conference on Nov. 10 to address challenges related to land ownership in Kansas. She notes that in addition to helping landowners build networks and learn about land management, the program includes information on:

· Agricultural land market conditions · Land lease management · Property tax regulations

Registration and more information on the conference is available at <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/Landowner">www.agmanager.info/Landowner</a> through Nov. 1.

“There is so much that we want to emphasize about having a good relationship between a landowner and their tenant,” Reid said. “Open communication and getting a lease in writing will help to streamline the process of managing a land lease and avoiding conflict.”

Ashlee Westerhold, director of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, will also be presenting during the conference. She said that 2 in 3 – 66% - Kansas farms are owned and operated by someone age 55 or older.

“So, if you think about that,” she said, “in the next 15 years as landowners head towards 70 years old, they will be retiring or thinking about transferring land. We’re going to see a huge wave of ownership transfer from one generation to the next.”

In her current role, Westerhold said she works with many families who are inheriting farmland while living in Kansas City, Wichita or other large cities.

“They do not necessarily have plans to come back to the farm, but they want to keep ownership,” she said. “And it’s important to have conversations about transition and succession even though these children might not live on the farm someday. We’re helping them become better landowners once they inherit the farm.”

More information on land-related issues also is available from the K-State Department of Agricultural Economics website, AgManager.info then click onto the Farm Management tab.

Article written by Pat Melgares, K-State News Service.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<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 photso" />
 <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 photso</figcaption>
 </figure>In less than a decade, there has been a shift in land ownership trends in Kansas.“There is a growing demographic of landowners in Kansas that are becoming more geographically and generationally removed from agriculture,” said Robin Reid, an agricultural economist at Kansas State University.Reid cites data from 2015 indicating that 85% of Kansas land was owned by people living in the state. Research is ongoing, she says, but in 2022, data suggests a notable shift in land being owned by people who live outside the state’s borders.“Some of that is due to inheritance and some of that is due to people purchasing land – especially hunting ground,” Reid said. “But we also know the No. 1 question in our county extension offices across the state is from landowners wanting to know the going rates for land leases and information on Kansas lease law.” Reid said K-State is hosting the first-ever Kansas Landowner Conference on Nov. 10 to address challenges related to land ownership in Kansas. She notes that in addition to helping landowners build networks and learn about land management, the program includes information on:· Agricultural land market conditions · Land lease management · Property tax regulations Registration and more information on the conference is available at <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/Landowner">www.agmanager.info/Landowner</a> through Nov. 1.“There is so much that we want to emphasize about having a good relationship between a landowner and their tenant,” Reid said. “Open communication and getting a lease in writing will help to streamline the process of managing a land lease and avoiding conflict.”Ashlee Westerhold, director of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, will also be presenting during the conference. She said that 2 in 3 – 66% - Kansas farms are owned and operated by someone age 55 or older.“So, if you think about that,” she said, “in the next 15 years as landowners head towards 70 years old, they will be retiring or thinking about transferring land. We’re going to see a huge wave of ownership transfer from one generation to the next.”In her current role, Westerhold said she works with many families who are inheriting farmland while living in Kansas City, Wichita or other large cities.“They do not necessarily have plans to come back to the farm, but they want to keep ownership,” she said. “And it’s important to have conversations about transition and succession even though these children might not live on the farm someday. We’re helping them become better landowners once they inherit the farm.”More information on land-related issues also is available from the K-State Department of Agricultural Economics website, AgManager.info then click onto the Farm Management tab.Article written by Pat Melgares, K-State News Service.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Number of absentee owners rising in the state, say K-State agricultural economists

Lifetime Dental Care's Dr. Jeffrey Lowe and team are being recognized with a prestigious award, this year's&nbsp;2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics.

&nbsp;This award is given to the organization that bestows amazing community impact. The award is also based on culture, customer relationships and the character of the company's leadership.

Lifetime Dental Care would like to thank all of their patient's and dental family. This award would not be possible without each of you.&nbsp;

Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts.

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 </figure>SubmittedLifetime Dental Care's Dr. Jeffrey Lowe and team are being recognized with a prestigious award, this year's&nbsp;2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics.&nbsp;This award is given to the organization that bestows amazing community impact. The award is also based on culture, customer relationships and the character of the company's leadership.Lifetime Dental Care would like to thank all of their patient's and dental family. This award would not be possible without each of you.&nbsp;Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts.

Lifetime Dental honored with BBB Ethics award

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

WAKEENEY — The Smoky Hill Trail Annual Conference is just around the corner on October 20, 21, and 22.&nbsp; The conference will be held at the Trego County Historical Society Museum, 128 N. 13th Street, WaKeeney. 

On Friday, October 20, there will be a bus tour of Trego County beginning at 1:00 pm. A “meet and greet” will follow at the Commercial Building at the Trego County Fairgrounds, 13th and Russell Avenue, WaKeeney, at 4:00 pm.

Saturday, October 21, will feature speakers throughout the day, beginning at 8:30 am. The speakers and their topics include: "A Window into Time," by Garrett Seuser; "The Cartographic Roots of Colorado," by Wes Brown; "The French on the Smoky Hill in the 18th Century,” by Wade Davis; "Railroaded: The Industry that Shaped Kansas," by Leo Oliva; and "Silas Stillman Soule: From Coal Creek to Sand Creek," by Byron Strom.

The evening features a banquet at 6:00 p.m. with special speaker, Chris Herriage, discussing “Today’s Archaeology, Tomorrow’s Trails.”

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 </figure>SubmittedWAKEENEY — The Smoky Hill Trail Annual Conference is just around the corner on October 20, 21, and 22.&nbsp; The conference will be held at the Trego County Historical Society Museum, 128 N. 13th Street, WaKeeney. On Friday, October 20, there will be a bus tour of Trego County beginning at 1:00 pm. A “meet and greet” will follow at the Commercial Building at the Trego County Fairgrounds, 13th and Russell Avenue, WaKeeney, at 4:00 pm.Saturday, October 21, will feature speakers throughout the day, beginning at 8:30 am. The speakers and their topics include: "A Window into Time," by Garrett Seuser; "The Cartographic Roots of Colorado," by Wes Brown; "The French on the Smoky Hill in the 18th Century,” by Wade Davis; "Railroaded: The Industry that Shaped Kansas," by Leo Oliva; and "Silas Stillman Soule: From Coal Creek to Sand Creek," by Byron Strom.The evening features a banquet at 6:00 p.m. with special speaker, Chris Herriage, discussing “Today’s Archaeology, Tomorrow’s Trails.”Sunday, October 22, begins with coffee at 8:30 a.m. and features two more speakers beginning at 9:00 a.m. Don Rowlinson will discuss “The History of Trego County Agriculture: Before and After the Sod Busters” and Wade Davis will discuss "Smoky Hill Thompson: A Life Wild and Perilous." The conference will close by 12:00 noon on Sunday.For more information about the conference, check out the Smoky Hill Trail Association website at <a href="https://www.smokyhilltrail.com/">www.smokyhilltrail.com</a><a href="https://www.smokyhilltrail.com/"></a>. You can register for the conference online at the Smoky Hill Trail Association website. Registrations are due by October 9. This is also a great time to become a member of the association. Register for the conference and join the association all at one time. Please direct any questions to smokyhilltrailassn@gmail.com, tregohistorical@ruraltel.net, or 785-743-2964.Don't miss your chance to learn more about our amazing local Western history!

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