The holiday season is around the corner, and this means that the kitchen will likely become a busy place as we prepare meals to gather around. As you prepare tasty dishes to share, be conscious of the possibility of sharing illness too. 

I found these tips from K-State food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, especially helpful for preventing cross-contamination:&nbsp;

“We use the kitchen sink for food preparation and more,” Blakeslee said. “The possibility exists for foodborne illness-causing bacteria to hang out in the sink too. These bacteria could cross-contaminate your food and make you sick.”&nbsp;

Blakeslee added that a recent USDA study tested surfaces where participants prepared a breakfast meal with raw sausage, shell eggs, and a fruit salad made with cut-up cantaloupe. Test results showed that 34% of the sinks were contaminated after preparing the meal.&nbsp;

Even more scary, 26% of the samples of cut-up cantaloupe from the fruit salad were contaminated after breakfast prep.&nbsp;

“The bacteria in the sink or on your hands can cross-contaminate from the sink to other items, including those you normally eat raw. This means you’ll be eating that bacteria too,” Blakeslee said.&nbsp;

After using your sink to wash or prepare food, clean and sanitize the sink:&nbsp;

1) Use warm, soapy water to wash the sink. Wipe it clean with paper towels.&nbsp;

2) Use a sanitizer and let air dry. Sanitizers can be homemade (1 tablespoon of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water) or use a commercial sanitizer or sanitizing wipe.&nbsp;

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or <a href="mailto:krwinkel@ksu.edu" target="_blank">krwinkel@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The holiday season is around the corner, and this means that the kitchen will likely become a busy place as we prepare meals to gather around. As you prepare tasty dishes to share, be conscious of the possibility of sharing illness too. I found these tips from K-State food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, especially helpful for preventing cross-contamination:&nbsp;“We use the kitchen sink for food preparation and more,” Blakeslee said. “The possibility exists for foodborne illness-causing bacteria to hang out in the sink too. These bacteria could cross-contaminate your food and make you sick.”&nbsp;Blakeslee added that a recent USDA study tested surfaces where participants prepared a breakfast meal with raw sausage, shell eggs, and a fruit salad made with cut-up cantaloupe. Test results showed that 34% of the sinks were contaminated after preparing the meal.&nbsp;Even more scary, 26% of the samples of cut-up cantaloupe from the fruit salad were contaminated after breakfast prep.&nbsp;“The bacteria in the sink or on your hands can cross-contaminate from the sink to other items, including those you normally eat raw. This means you’ll be eating that bacteria too,” Blakeslee said.&nbsp;After using your sink to wash or prepare food, clean and sanitize the sink:&nbsp;1) Use warm, soapy water to wash the sink. Wipe it clean with paper towels.&nbsp;2) Use a sanitizer and let air dry. Sanitizers can be homemade (1 tablespoon of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water) or use a commercial sanitizer or sanitizing wipe.&nbsp;Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or <a href="mailto:krwinkel@ksu.edu" target="_blank">krwinkel@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Food Safety Tip: Clean the kitchen sink 

<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/2023/11/1699646996223.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

THOMAS COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the victim of a fatal NW Kansas crash as 54-year-old Valery L.&nbsp;Strader of Denver.

Just after 6a.m. November 9, a 2006 Chrysler Town and Country driven by&nbsp;Strader was southbound on U.S. 83 six miles north of U.S. 24.

The van&nbsp;left roadway to the right and the driver corrected. The vehicle re-entered U.S. 83, crossed both lanes of travel, entered the northbound ditch and the driver corrected again.

The van entered U.S. 83 again, rolled and the driver was ejected.

Strader was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Baalmann Mortuary. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the victim of a fatal NW Kansas crash as 54-year-old Valery L.&nbsp;Strader of Denver.Just after 6a.m. November 9, a 2006 Chrysler Town and Country driven by&nbsp;Strader was southbound on U.S. 83 six miles north of U.S. 24.The van&nbsp;left roadway to the right and the driver corrected. The vehicle re-entered U.S. 83, crossed both lanes of travel, entered the northbound ditch and the driver corrected again.The van entered U.S. 83 again, rolled and the driver was ejected.Strader was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Baalmann Mortuary. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

KHP IDs woman who died in NW Kan. van rollover crash

Veterans Day is a time for us to pay respect to all who have served our country.&nbsp;

Eagle Radio, Hays Post and these sponsors have created a place where our community can honor those who have served and are still serving.&nbsp;

Submit a photo of your military loved one above.

<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="0029a241-3fbe-4c47-84b5-603dfa6de3bd" data-routing="hash" data-script="qhyu1m"></div>
<script defer src="https://embed-1013246.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-script="qhyu1m">/**/</script></div>Veterans Day is a time for us to pay respect to all who have served our country.&nbsp;Eagle Radio, Hays Post and these sponsors have created a place where our community can honor those who have served and are still serving.&nbsp;Submit a photo of your military loved one above.

📷 HONOR OUR VETERANS: 2023 Veterans photo gallery

I love watching hawks hunt and I love observing how they’ve learned to interact with farm equipment as it rolls across fields and stirs up rodents and small birds that scurry about and often end up as a snack for the hawk. 

Our raised deer blind overlooks a grass waterway that grows up in giant sunflowers and pigweed by summer’s end, becoming a nice secure travel way for deer, but making them hard to spot during hunting season. I try to mow that area every fall, and every year as I mow the last swath of thick weedy cover, fat field mice scatter everywhere and I think to myself “Man, could the hawks be feasting here.” 

A few years back I happened by a nearby field of soybeans being cut. What caught my eye was the enormous number of hawks all around the field; I counted to thirty-some, then lost count.

 I rolled into the field and talked with one of the combine drivers about the hawks. He said they had suddenly appeared as if from nowhere when they started cutting and had been there since. The soybean plants were extra tall and thick that year, and as they ripened and dropped their foliage, it left several inches of duff covering the ground between the rows, perfect cover for field mice and rats looking for warm concealment. As the combines lumbered through the field, they forced all those rodents from their cozy quarters and the hawks were feasting.

We’re already starting to see an extraordinary number of hawks of all varieties as they migrate south toward warmer climates. The extent of our Kansas winter will largely determine whether they stay here for a spell or move on south, and our milder-than-normal winters of late have been a huge draw to migrating hawks. 

The hawks I observed hunting the soybean stubble field that year were obviously migrants that were getting a good meal whether they stayed or not. 

The vast acreages of new wheat fields will be a huge draw too, as mice, voles and insects become vulnerable to the hawk’s keen eyes in the short new wheat. Another plus is the type of air currents and thermals that blow through the Plains states. North winds coming down from Canada are utilized by all types of hawks, saving them precious energy by being able to soar. 

So, in summary, the mild winters, the open fields and the beneficial wind currents all make Kansas a popular place to see hawks of many varieties this time of year.

One common hawk we see here every winter is the Northern Harrier. They are large hawks with wide white bands across their broad square tails and are often seen gliding effortlessly mere feet above CRP fields and pastures. We also get an influx of Red Tails from northern states as they come here for our milder winters. Swainson Hawks on their way to Argentina stop in Kansas by the thousands. Rough-Legged Hawks migrate from Canada to the western U.S., including Kansas. Ferruginous Hawks may be seen here as they travel from western Kansas to parts of the South Eastern US and to Florida. All these truly make for a kaleidoscope of raptors in our Kansas sky.

This article wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing the important role raptors play in our agricultural environment. Raptors get blamed for everything from low pheasant and quail populations to stealing chickens and everything in between. Yes, we all know that hawks and especially owls will steal a chicken or two given the chance, but in actuality, hawks prey on mice, rats, snakes and possums that eat quail and pheasant eggs and newly&nbsp;hatched young. (FYI, feral and stray cats are the worst predators alive for killing young game birds and song birds.) Owls are huge rat and mice hunters and also eat skunks that carry rabies. 

If not for these raptors in our midst, rodent populations would devastate farmer’s crops and our environment as a whole. And for the record, killing a raptor of any kind is illegal in Kansas!

You can’t go afield this time of year without spotting hawks silently hunting low over patches of CRP and milo stalks, waiting patiently atop power poles for prey to reveal themselves or putting on shows of acrobatic excellence as they soar above us on the fall breezes. I once overheard a raptor rehabilitator tell someone “We as humans have encroached on them, so the least we can do is let them live with us.” 

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" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>I love watching hawks hunt and I love observing how they’ve learned to interact with farm equipment as it rolls across fields and stirs up rodents and small birds that scurry about and often end up as a snack for the hawk. Our raised deer blind overlooks a grass waterway that grows up in giant sunflowers and pigweed by summer’s end, becoming a nice secure travel way for deer, but making them hard to spot during hunting season. I try to mow that area every fall, and every year as I mow the last swath of thick weedy cover, fat field mice scatter everywhere and I think to myself “Man, could the hawks be feasting here.” A few years back I happened by a nearby field of soybeans being cut. What caught my eye was the enormous number of hawks all around the field; I counted to thirty-some, then lost count. I rolled into the field and talked with one of the combine drivers about the hawks. He said they had suddenly appeared as if from nowhere when they started cutting and had been there since. The soybean plants were extra tall and thick that year, and as they ripened and dropped their foliage, it left several inches of duff covering the ground between the rows, perfect cover for field mice and rats looking for warm concealment. As the combines lumbered through the field, they forced all those rodents from their cozy quarters and the hawks were feasting.We’re already starting to see an extraordinary number of hawks of all varieties as they migrate south toward warmer climates. The extent of our Kansas winter will largely determine whether they stay here for a spell or move on south, and our milder-than-normal winters of late have been a huge draw to migrating hawks. The hawks I observed hunting the soybean stubble field that year were obviously migrants that were getting a good meal whether they stayed or not. The vast acreages of new wheat fields will be a huge draw too, as mice, voles and insects become vulnerable to the hawk’s keen eyes in the short new wheat. Another plus is the type of air currents and thermals that blow through the Plains states. North winds coming down from Canada are utilized by all types of hawks, saving them precious energy by being able to soar. So, in summary, the mild winters, the open fields and the beneficial wind currents all make Kansas a popular place to see hawks of many varieties this time of year.One common hawk we see here every winter is the Northern Harrier. They are large hawks with wide white bands across their broad square tails and are often seen gliding effortlessly mere feet above CRP fields and pastures. We also get an influx of Red Tails from northern states as they come here for our milder winters. Swainson Hawks on their way to Argentina stop in Kansas by the thousands. Rough-Legged Hawks migrate from Canada to the western U.S., including Kansas. Ferruginous Hawks may be seen here as they travel from western Kansas to parts of the South Eastern US and to Florida. All these truly make for a kaleidoscope of raptors in our Kansas sky.This article wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing the important role raptors play in our agricultural environment. Raptors get blamed for everything from low pheasant and quail populations to stealing chickens and everything in between. Yes, we all know that hawks and especially owls will steal a chicken or two given the chance, but in actuality, hawks prey on mice, rats, snakes and possums that eat quail and pheasant eggs and newly&nbsp;hatched young. (FYI, feral and stray cats are the worst predators alive for killing young game birds and song birds.) Owls are huge rat and mice hunters and also eat skunks that carry rabies. If not for these raptors in our midst, rodent populations would devastate farmer’s crops and our environment as a whole. And for the record, killing a raptor of any kind is illegal in Kansas!You can’t go afield this time of year without spotting hawks silently hunting low over patches of CRP and milo stalks, waiting patiently atop power poles for prey to reveal themselves or putting on shows of acrobatic excellence as they soar above us on the fall breezes. I once overheard a raptor rehabilitator tell someone “We as humans have encroached on them, so the least we can do is let them live with us.” Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at&nbsp;stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoor Kansas: Here Come the Hawks

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Bond issues can be difficult for school boards. Four school districts saw their bond proposals fail during last Tuesday's General Election. That was not the case for USD 395 La Crosse. Superintendent Bill Keeley said a lot of work ahead of time paid off with a 566-247 vote approving a $10.975 million bond that will allow the construction of a new elementary school, complete with a gymnasium.

"We felt really good," Keeley said. "There was a lot of support and positive forces working for the bond. We had an advocacy committee of community volunteers, of probably 30-35 people. They were working with our marketing team to get out information to everyone."

The effort included sending out flyers, going door-to-door, posting information at gas stations and grocery stores, and sending out mailers. The district did not so much advocate for a yes or no vote on the matter so much as it informed voters. An original estimate put the project at $22 million but financial experts suggested a project about half that size.

"They just went for our absolute needs - the new elementary school with a gym - none of the wants," said Keeley. "They cut everything out. I think the patrons realized that. Then we combined it with the sales tax to lower the mill levy even more. I think the patrons realized that."

The bond will add a new elementary school to be constructed on the north side of the existing middle and high school. Over 20 years, the district would increase the mill levy 19.75 mills. Voters in the city of La Crosse also approved a one-percent sales tax increase that will drop the district's mill levy increase to 15.74 mills. On a $100,000 home, that amounts to $15.08 a month in additional taxes versus $18.93 without the additional sales tax.

Nearly 73 percent of La Crosse voters said yes to the tax increase. Nearly 70 percent of district voters cast a ballot in favor of the bond. Experts have told Keeley that type of margin is rare on bond issues. He credits the voters for being informed.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5c39b8a9-e54d-4d19-b9ba-3e408396551e">READ MORE: USD 395, La Crosse voters to decide bond, tax issues on Nov. 7</a>

"A lot of them toured our elementary school building, which is 97 years old," he said. "They saw the cracked ceilings. They saw the walls caving in. They saw the windows leaking. They saw the general state of the building, which is falling apart slowly. I think getting out the information to everyone in the district and holding informational meetings in all the townships, I think the combination of all of that together, I think everyone was very informed and voted how they felt in their heart."

USD 395 has selected Hutchinson-based Wiens and Company for construction work, Hutchinson-based Landmark Architects for design work, and Wichita's Stifel to handle finances. Groundbreaking is expected to take place shortly after the 2023-24 school year ends in May. The new facility is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025-26 school year.

With Tuesday's election, many districts around the state will regroup and reexamine their bond issues. La Crosse is ready to move forward.

"I've had quite a few area superintendents reach out to, one, congratulate us, and two, they want to know how in the heck we did it," Keeley said. "They want to meet with us and figure out how we got a plan together like we did."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699561110494.png" alt="A rendering of the new elementary school in La Crosse from Landmark Architects. A $10.975 bond issue was approved by voters in Tuesday's General Election." />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the new elementary school in La Crosse from Landmark Architects. A $10.975 bond issue was approved by voters in Tuesday's General Election.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBond issues can be difficult for school boards. Four school districts saw their bond proposals fail during last Tuesday's General Election. That was not the case for USD 395 La Crosse. Superintendent Bill Keeley said a lot of work ahead of time paid off with a 566-247 vote approving a $10.975 million bond that will allow the construction of a new elementary school, complete with a gymnasium."We felt really good," Keeley said. "There was a lot of support and positive forces working for the bond. We had an advocacy committee of community volunteers, of probably 30-35 people. They were working with our marketing team to get out information to everyone."The effort included sending out flyers, going door-to-door, posting information at gas stations and grocery stores, and sending out mailers. The district did not so much advocate for a yes or no vote on the matter so much as it informed voters. An original estimate put the project at $22 million but financial experts suggested a project about half that size.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696427697584.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"They just went for our absolute needs - the new elementary school with a gym - none of the wants," said Keeley. "They cut everything out. I think the patrons realized that. Then we combined it with the sales tax to lower the mill levy even more. I think the patrons realized that."The bond will add a new elementary school to be constructed on the north side of the existing middle and high school. Over 20 years, the district would increase the mill levy 19.75 mills. Voters in the city of La Crosse also approved a one-percent sales tax increase that will drop the district's mill levy increase to 15.74 mills. On a $100,000 home, that amounts to $15.08 a month in additional taxes versus $18.93 without the additional sales tax.Nearly 73 percent of La Crosse voters said yes to the tax increase. Nearly 70 percent of district voters cast a ballot in favor of the bond. Experts have told Keeley that type of margin is rare on bond issues. He credits the voters for being informed.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5c39b8a9-e54d-4d19-b9ba-3e408396551e">READ MORE: USD 395, La Crosse voters to decide bond, tax issues on Nov. 7</a>"A lot of them toured our elementary school building, which is 97 years old," he said. "They saw the cracked ceilings. They saw the walls caving in. They saw the windows leaking. They saw the general state of the building, which is falling apart slowly. I think getting out the information to everyone in the district and holding informational meetings in all the townships, I think the combination of all of that together, I think everyone was very informed and voted how they felt in their heart."USD 395 has selected Hutchinson-based Wiens and Company for construction work, Hutchinson-based Landmark Architects for design work, and Wichita's Stifel to handle finances. Groundbreaking is expected to take place shortly after the 2023-24 school year ends in May. The new facility is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025-26 school year.With Tuesday's election, many districts around the state will regroup and reexamine their bond issues. La Crosse is ready to move forward."I've had quite a few area superintendents reach out to, one, congratulate us, and two, they want to know how in the heck we did it," Keeley said. "They want to meet with us and figure out how we got a plan together like we did."

USD 395 La Crosse voters approve $10.975 million bond issue

Russell Arben Fox's insightful <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5044e38b-4d59-4805-9474-786c9a04bbf1">editorial on the dynamics of local governance in Kansas</a> rightly underscores the pivotal role played by city managers in shaping our communities.

While his article delves into the complexities of the relationship between elected officials and appointed professionals, it is equally important to acknowledge the empowering nature of constitutional home-rule authority granted to Kansas citizens, the cornerstone of self-determination. 

Home­ rule authority allows cities to choose the form of government that aligns with the community's specific needs and goals. This flexibility is instrumental in ensuring that local governments can effectively address the challenges they face while operating within the framework of our great state.

In Kansas, the council-manager system has predominantly been embraced, which, as Fox aptly points out, fosters pragmatic governance and guards against the polarization often observed in state and national politics. 

City managers, as nonpartisan professionals, bring expertise and experience to the decision-making process, ensuring that choices are made based on sound judgment and technical knowledge rather than political agendas.

It is important to recognize that appointing city managers by elected officials creates a synergy between professional expertise and the community's values and priorities. Elected officials representing their constituents are well-suited to select city managers who share their vision for the community and possess the necessary skills to execute it effectively. 

While city managers play a vital role in day-to-day decision-making, they are held accountable to the elected officials who appoint them. City managers serve at the pleasure of the governing body, and their performance is continually evaluated based on their ability to implement the council's decisions and achieve the community's goals.

The balance between elected officials and professionals in local government is crucial. Elected officials provide the vision and direction, while professional managers ensure those goals are translated into effective action. This collaborative approach allows for the best of both worlds: the democratic representation of citizens' interests and the expertise needed to navigate complex administrative tasks.

In summary, Fox's column serves as a valuable reminder of the critical role played by city managers and their staff in shaping our local communities. Home-rule authority empowers cities to choose a form of government - a council-manager system, a strong mayor system, or a hybrid model - that is effective and responsive to community values. 

By striking a balance&nbsp;between elected officials and professional managers and fostering transparency and citizen engagement, Kansas cities can continue to thrive under strong leadership and professional expertise.

Jon Quinday, ICMA-CM Russell City Manager

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Russell Arben Fox's insightful <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5044e38b-4d59-4805-9474-786c9a04bbf1">editorial on the dynamics of local governance in Kansas</a> rightly underscores the pivotal role played by city managers in shaping our communities. While his article delves into the complexities of the relationship between elected officials and appointed professionals, it is equally important to acknowledge the empowering nature of constitutional home-rule authority granted to Kansas citizens, the cornerstone of self-determination. Home­ rule authority allows cities to choose the form of government that aligns with the community's specific needs and goals. This flexibility is instrumental in ensuring that local governments can effectively address the challenges they face while operating within the framework of our great state.In Kansas, the council-manager system has predominantly been embraced, which, as Fox aptly points out, fosters pragmatic governance and guards against the polarization often observed in state and national politics. City managers, as nonpartisan professionals, bring expertise and experience to the decision-making process, ensuring that choices are made based on sound judgment and technical knowledge rather than political agendas.It is important to recognize that appointing city managers by elected officials creates a synergy between professional expertise and the community's values and priorities. Elected officials representing their constituents are well-suited to select city managers who share their vision for the community and possess the necessary skills to execute it effectively. While city managers play a vital role in day-to-day decision-making, they are held accountable to the elected officials who appoint them. City managers serve at the pleasure of the governing body, and their performance is continually evaluated based on their ability to implement the council's decisions and achieve the community's goals.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The balance between elected officials and professionals in local government is crucial. Elected officials provide the vision and direction, while professional managers ensure those goals are translated into effective action. This collaborative approach allows for the best of both worlds: the democratic representation of citizens' interests and the expertise needed to navigate complex administrative tasks.In summary, Fox's column serves as a valuable reminder of the critical role played by city managers and their staff in shaping our local communities. Home-rule authority empowers cities to choose a form of government - a council-manager system, a strong mayor system, or a hybrid model - that is effective and responsive to community values. By striking a balance&nbsp;between elected officials and professional managers and fostering transparency and citizen engagement, Kansas cities can continue to thrive under strong leadership and professional expertise.Jon Quinday, ICMA-CM Russell City Manager

LETTER: The role of city managers and home-rule authority in local governance

According to data published by the Pew Charitable Trusts, an affiliate of the Pew Research Center, Kansas ranks dead last in the country on the share of state revenue that comes from federal funds.

Across the country, the percentage of state revenue from federal funds ranges from about a quarter to more than half of state revenue and according to Pew, a higher or lower percentage does not necessarily indicate a problem for state budgets.

The highest and lowest ranked states vary greatly — and perhaps challenge some partisan stereotypes about federal spending. Alaska, Louisiana, Montana and Rhode Island make up the top four, while New Jersey, California, Utah, and Kansas fall at the bottom of the list.

To some, this may not seem like a bad thing; Kansas’ politics has strong libertarian undertones after all.

However, the federal share of state revenue does reflect how much funding states receive from the federal government to help pay for public services — healthcare, education and training, transportation, infrastructure, etc.

In Kansas in particular, our ranking shows that federal dollars are left on the table rather than being used on public goods that benefit citizens.

The latest Kansas Speaks public opinion survey — conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University from September 20 to October 10 of this year — shows that nearly 70% of respondents support Medicaid expansion.

Ninety-percent of the cost of expanding KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program, would come from federal dollars under the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Forty states and Washington, D.C. have enacted expansion, including all of our neighboring states — three of which expanded Medicaid via initiative petition.

Studies estimate that 150,000 Kansans would gain coverage under KanCare expansion. Sixty-six percent of Kansas Speaks respondents indicated that these Kansans deserve healthcare from the state.

Furthermore, expanding KanCare would also keep rural hospitals open — which is critically important to our rural communities.

In an investigation by Wichita’s KWCH Factfinder 12 team earlier this year, over half of the state’s rural hospitals are at risk of closing. Of 104 rural hospitals, 60 are at risk of closing, including 29 facing immediate risk.

Just over 64% of Kansas Speaks respondents agree that keeping rural hospitals open is an important benefit of expanding KanCare.

In the face of Kansas' unique position as the lowest-ranked state in terms of federal funds contributing to our state revenue, it becomes evident that there is untapped potential for improving the well-being of citizens.

The data from Pew and Kansas Speaks paint a clear picture: Kansas has an opportunity to leverage federal funding to enhance public services, especially in the crucial areas of healthcare and rural hospital sustainability.

Accepting federal funds does not compromise our values but rather presents an avenue to improve the lives of our fellow Kansans. It's not just about numbers; it's about providing a lifeline to those who need it and ensuring the stability of our rural hospitals.

Kansas stands at a crossroads, with the opportunity to harness federal resources for the betterment of our citizens and communities.

Expanding KanCare is not just an investment in healthcare; it is an investment in the future of our state, where every individual's well-being and the vitality of our rural communities matter.

Kansas can rise above its ranking by embracing practical solutions that reflect our deeply held values of compassion, community, and care for one another.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="Alexandra Middlewood (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>According to data published by the Pew Charitable Trusts, an affiliate of the Pew Research Center, Kansas ranks dead last in the country on the share of state revenue that comes from federal funds.Across the country, the percentage of state revenue from federal funds ranges from about a quarter to more than half of state revenue and according to Pew, a higher or lower percentage does not necessarily indicate a problem for state budgets.The highest and lowest ranked states vary greatly — and perhaps challenge some partisan stereotypes about federal spending. Alaska, Louisiana, Montana and Rhode Island make up the top four, while New Jersey, California, Utah, and Kansas fall at the bottom of the list.To some, this may not seem like a bad thing; Kansas’ politics has strong libertarian undertones after all.However, the federal share of state revenue does reflect how much funding states receive from the federal government to help pay for public services — healthcare, education and training, transportation, infrastructure, etc.In Kansas in particular, our ranking shows that federal dollars are left on the table rather than being used on public goods that benefit citizens.The latest Kansas Speaks public opinion survey — conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University from September 20 to October 10 of this year — shows that nearly 70% of respondents support Medicaid expansion.Ninety-percent of the cost of expanding KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program, would come from federal dollars under the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Forty states and Washington, D.C. have enacted expansion, including all of our neighboring states — three of which expanded Medicaid via initiative petition.Studies estimate that 150,000 Kansans would gain coverage under KanCare expansion. Sixty-six percent of Kansas Speaks respondents indicated that these Kansans deserve healthcare from the state.Furthermore, expanding KanCare would also keep rural hospitals open — which is critically important to our rural communities.In an investigation by Wichita’s KWCH Factfinder 12 team earlier this year, over half of the state’s rural hospitals are at risk of closing. Of 104 rural hospitals, 60 are at risk of closing, including 29 facing immediate risk.Just over 64% of Kansas Speaks respondents agree that keeping rural hospitals open is an important benefit of expanding KanCare.In the face of Kansas' unique position as the lowest-ranked state in terms of federal funds contributing to our state revenue, it becomes evident that there is untapped potential for improving the well-being of citizens.The data from Pew and Kansas Speaks paint a clear picture: Kansas has an opportunity to leverage federal funding to enhance public services, especially in the crucial areas of healthcare and rural hospital sustainability.Accepting federal funds does not compromise our values but rather presents an avenue to improve the lives of our fellow Kansans. It's not just about numbers; it's about providing a lifeline to those who need it and ensuring the stability of our rural hospitals.Kansas stands at a crossroads, with the opportunity to harness federal resources for the betterment of our citizens and communities.Expanding KanCare is not just an investment in healthcare; it is an investment in the future of our state, where every individual's well-being and the vitality of our rural communities matter.Kansas can rise above its ranking by embracing practical solutions that reflect our deeply held values of compassion, community, and care for one another.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

Insight Kansas: Kansas’ dilemma: Embracing federal dollars for a brighter, healthier future

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699646961723.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>

More than 150 attend 93rd-annual Ellis County 4-H Achievement Banquet 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Discover the magic behind Festival of Trees, an auction paving the way for more improvements at the ARC Park in Hays.

Festival of Trees is ARC Park's biggest fundraiser of the year with all proceeds going to the park's next phase in adding more features and equipment to the park.

Executive Director of the Arc of Central Plains Kathy McAdoo, highlights the objective of having a safe and boundless park in the Hays community.

"Inclusivity is very important, and the ARC Park itself promotes inclusivity and side-by-side play, not just for children but for adults,” she said. “It lets grandparents that may have a mobility challenge and may use a walker go to the park with their grandchildren and watch or play with them.”

The third phase in bringing more accessible recreation to the park includes corn hole lanes with shaded dugouts, a quonset play structure and two tennis courts.&nbsp;

The ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest Drive, is comprised of multi-generational equipment, sensory elements, swings and a splash pad offering various water components.

McAdoo emphasizes the importance of having a highly accessible playground in the neighborhood.

“Anyone of us can become disabled at any time. You’re one trip, fall or car accident away from becoming wheelchair-bound,” McAdoo said.

There are an estimated 1,400 children and adults with disabilities in the area, according to the Hays ARC Park <a href="https://www.haysarcpark.org/?fbclid=IwAR24g_y37j5N-8sD7aYhwKMyfkg-Kd-Hutg2kloc4TrgzaKWAeHojEgV6sY">website</a>.

Executive Director of the Heartland Community Foundation Sarah Meitner, said the Arc Thrift Store receives an overflow of contributions related to the holiday season, which led to the idea behind the Festival of Trees.

“We had all of these wonderful donated items come into the thrift store. There were so many Christmas items that were in really good shape, sometimes in the original boxes that were never used,” Meitner said. “We felt like we could repurpose beautifully decorated trees and other items to have an auction.”

The auction shifted to an online format due to the COVID pandemic and has remained that way ever since, allowing people from any location to place bids.

Items featured, crafted by local volunteers, include Christmas trees, wreaths, tabletop decorations and porch displays.

Meitner hopes the bidding will contribute to furthering the mission of improving the ARC Park to be more inclusive to the community.

“Everybody deserves to play regardless of age and ability. Everybody has a very innate feeling to be able to have a space where you can come and play like anybody else,” she said.&nbsp;

Meitner emphasizes that the photos do not fully capture the charm of festive items and urges people to view them in person.

The construction for the current park was about $2.1 million and the next phase is expected to be less than $1 million. The opening date for phase three is expected to be in 2024.

The new additions to the park will be situated on the left side of the splash pad.

The Festival of Trees can be viewed at the Arc of Central Plans, 600 Main St. Bidding is open now online and ends at 5 p.m. Monday.

You can place your bids on the auction <a href="https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=festivaloftrees&amp;fbclid=IwAR0pFruNwLlMl-J_cTpQXiwofHBOZdHysq2ocMn-m3zhCas-uxsq4aeM_18#">website</a>.

Visit the Arc Thrift Store during its operating hours to see the trees and other items on display.

You can also follow the ARC Park on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HAYSARCPARK">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699410370325.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of the Arc" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the Arc</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDiscover the magic behind Festival of Trees, an auction paving the way for more improvements at the ARC Park in Hays.Festival of Trees is ARC Park's biggest fundraiser of the year with all proceeds going to the park's next phase in adding more features and equipment to the park.Executive Director of the Arc of Central Plains Kathy McAdoo, highlights the objective of having a safe and boundless park in the Hays community."Inclusivity is very important, and the ARC Park itself promotes inclusivity and side-by-side play, not just for children but for adults,” she said. “It lets grandparents that may have a mobility challenge and may use a walker go to the park with their grandchildren and watch or play with them.”The third phase in bringing more accessible recreation to the park includes corn hole lanes with shaded dugouts, a quonset play structure and two tennis courts.&nbsp;The ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest Drive, is comprised of multi-generational equipment, sensory elements, swings and a splash pad offering various water components.McAdoo emphasizes the importance of having a highly accessible playground in the neighborhood.“Anyone of us can become disabled at any time. You’re one trip, fall or car accident away from becoming wheelchair-bound,” McAdoo said.There are an estimated 1,400 children and adults with disabilities in the area, according to the Hays ARC Park <a href="https://www.haysarcpark.org/?fbclid=IwAR24g_y37j5N-8sD7aYhwKMyfkg-Kd-Hutg2kloc4TrgzaKWAeHojEgV6sY">website</a>.Executive Director of the Heartland Community Foundation Sarah Meitner, said the Arc Thrift Store receives an overflow of contributions related to the holiday season, which led to the idea behind the Festival of Trees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699410536576.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of the Arc" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the Arc</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699410587628.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of the Arc" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the Arc</figcaption>
 </figure>“We had all of these wonderful donated items come into the thrift store. There were so many Christmas items that were in really good shape, sometimes in the original boxes that were never used,” Meitner said. “We felt like we could repurpose beautifully decorated trees and other items to have an auction.”The auction shifted to an online format due to the COVID pandemic and has remained that way ever since, allowing people from any location to place bids.Items featured, crafted by local volunteers, include Christmas trees, wreaths, tabletop decorations and porch displays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699410865019.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hays Arc" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hays Arc</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699410890563.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hays Arc" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hays Arc</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699411672540.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hays Arc" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hays Arc</figcaption>
 </figure>Meitner hopes the bidding will contribute to furthering the mission of improving the ARC Park to be more inclusive to the community.“Everybody deserves to play regardless of age and ability. Everybody has a very innate feeling to be able to have a space where you can come and play like anybody else,” she said.&nbsp;Meitner emphasizes that the photos do not fully capture the charm of festive items and urges people to view them in person.The construction for the current park was about $2.1 million and the next phase is expected to be less than $1 million. The opening date for phase three is expected to be in 2024.The new additions to the park will be situated on the left side of the splash pad.The Festival of Trees can be viewed at the Arc of Central Plans, 600 Main St. Bidding is open now online and ends at 5 p.m. Monday.You can place your bids on the auction <a href="https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=festivaloftrees&amp;fbclid=IwAR0pFruNwLlMl-J_cTpQXiwofHBOZdHysq2ocMn-m3zhCas-uxsq4aeM_18#">website</a>.Visit the Arc Thrift Store during its operating hours to see the trees and other items on display.You can also follow the ARC Park on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HAYSARCPARK">Facebook</a>.

Hays ARC Park Festival of Trees fundraiser online now through Monday

By CAROL KANDO-PINEDA FTC

As we approach Veterans Day, we thank our veterans for their service and sacrifice. But not everyone has a vet’s best interests in mind. Whether you left the service decades ago or you’re planning your transition to civilian life, scammers will try to get you to send money or share personal information. Scammers also want to get their hands on the valuable benefits you earned through military service. 

What are some ways to know you’re dealing with a scammer?

First know how scammers operate. Imposter scams come in many varieties but they work the same way: scammers call, text, email, or reach out over social media and pretend to be someone you trust to convince you to send them money.&nbsp;

Scammers&nbsp;may pretend to be from a&nbsp;<a href="http://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-government-impersonator-scam">government agency</a>&nbsp;and say you need to pay a fine. Or they may pose as an online&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-romance-scams">love interest</a>&nbsp;who needs you to send money for an expensive medical procedure. The scammer may&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams">offer you a job</a>, too, but say you need to pay a fee before you get hired. Scammers may claim to have some affinity with the military to gain your trust so you won’t dig too deep into what they’re saying.

Second, know how scammers ask you to pay. No matter what the story is, only scammers will insist that the only way you can pay is by cash, gift card, cryptocurrency, payment app, or a wire transfer service.&nbsp;These methods make it almost impossible to get your money back, which is why scammers insist you pay that way.&nbsp;Stop. Don’t pay.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll highlight some of the ways scammers try to get at your veterans benefits — and ways you can spot and avoid those scams. 

One way to recognize Veterans Day is to share the advice about avoiding scams and encourage the veterans you know to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.militaryconsumer.gov/">sign up for the latest updates</a>&nbsp;to stay a step ahead of scammers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699286606601.png" alt="FTC" />
 <figcaption>FTC</figcaption>
 </figure>By CAROL KANDO-PINEDA FTCAs we approach Veterans Day, we thank our veterans for their service and sacrifice. But not everyone has a vet’s best interests in mind. Whether you left the service decades ago or you’re planning your transition to civilian life, scammers will try to get you to send money or share personal information. Scammers also want to get their hands on the valuable benefits you earned through military service. What are some ways to know you’re dealing with a scammer?First know how scammers operate. Imposter scams come in many varieties but they work the same way: scammers call, text, email, or reach out over social media and pretend to be someone you trust to convince you to send them money.&nbsp;Scammers&nbsp;may pretend to be from a&nbsp;<a href="http://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-government-impersonator-scam">government agency</a>&nbsp;and say you need to pay a fine. Or they may pose as an online&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-romance-scams">love interest</a>&nbsp;who needs you to send money for an expensive medical procedure. The scammer may&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams">offer you a job</a>, too, but say you need to pay a fee before you get hired. Scammers may claim to have some affinity with the military to gain your trust so you won’t dig too deep into what they’re saying.Second, know how scammers ask you to pay. No matter what the story is, only scammers will insist that the only way you can pay is by cash, gift card, cryptocurrency, payment app, or a wire transfer service.&nbsp;These methods make it almost impossible to get your money back, which is why scammers insist you pay that way.&nbsp;Stop. Don’t pay.Over the next few weeks, we’ll highlight some of the ways scammers try to get at your veterans benefits — and ways you can spot and avoid those scams. One way to recognize Veterans Day is to share the advice about avoiding scams and encourage the veterans you know to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.militaryconsumer.gov/">sign up for the latest updates</a>&nbsp;to stay a step ahead of scammers.

FTC: Veterans and scams

KDOT announces approved October bids in northwest Kansas

Mustard plants such as field pennycress, bushy wallflower, flixweed, tansy mustard, and blue mustard in wheat fields often are not noticed until the mustards start to bloom in the spring. As a result, farmers often do not think about control until that time. Although it is possible to get some control with spring herbicide applications, mustards are much more difficult to control once they have flowered and often have already reduced wheat yields by then.

To minimize yield losses, mustards should be controlled by late winter or very early spring before the stems begin to elongate or bolt. If mustards are present in the fall, they can be controlled by various active ingredients. You can look for products containing Group 2 ALS-inhibiting herbicides.

Most ALS-inhibiting herbicides control winter annual mustards very well. However, there are populations of bushy wall flower (treacle mustard) and flixweed in Kansas that are ALS-resistant and cannot be controlled by these products. Alternative herbicides will be needed to control these populations. Also, be aware that some of the Group 2 herbicides have long rotation intervals to other crops.

Group 27 herbicides can control ALS-resistant mustards. Other options to control ALS-resistant mustards are Group 4 herbicides.

Group 27 and Group 4 herbicides have little to no residual activity, thus will only control weeds that have emerged and are actively growing. Applying them with fertilizer in January or February when weeds are dormant will not provide good mustard control. In addition, special care should be taken to ensure wheat is fully tillered when 2,4-D is applied to avoid reducing tillering.

In the late winter or early spring, blue mustard is perhaps the most difficult of the winter annual broadleaf weeds to control because it bolts very early. To be effective on blue mustard, herbicides typically need to be applied in late February or early March. Blue mustard is more difficult to control than tansy mustard with 2,4-D because blue mustard has often already bolted by the time 2,4-D can be safely applied to wheat. Thus, 2,4-D is often applied too late to be effective on blue mustard.

Flixweed and tansy mustard should be treated when they are no larger than two to three inches across and two to three inches tall. As these plants become larger, control decreases dramatically. Ester formulations of 2,4-D and MCPA are more effective on tansy mustard and flixweed than amine formulations. Field pennycress is easier to control than tansy mustard or flixweed. Herbicide applications made before the pennycress bolts are usually effective.

Crop rotation with corn, grain sorghum, soybeans, or sunflowers is a good way of managing mustards as long as they are controlled in the spring before producing seeds. Crop rotation will usually result in a gradual reduction of mustard populations in the future as the seedbank in the soil decreases.

Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

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>Mustard plants such as field pennycress, bushy wallflower, flixweed, tansy mustard, and blue mustard in wheat fields often are not noticed until the mustards start to bloom in the spring. As a result, farmers often do not think about control until that time. Although it is possible to get some control with spring herbicide applications, mustards are much more difficult to control once they have flowered and often have already reduced wheat yields by then.To minimize yield losses, mustards should be controlled by late winter or very early spring before the stems begin to elongate or bolt. If mustards are present in the fall, they can be controlled by various active ingredients. You can look for products containing Group 2 ALS-inhibiting herbicides.Most ALS-inhibiting herbicides control winter annual mustards very well. However, there are populations of bushy wall flower (treacle mustard) and flixweed in Kansas that are ALS-resistant and cannot be controlled by these products. Alternative herbicides will be needed to control these populations. Also, be aware that some of the Group 2 herbicides have long rotation intervals to other crops.Group 27 herbicides can control ALS-resistant mustards. Other options to control ALS-resistant mustards are Group 4 herbicides.Group 27 and Group 4 herbicides have little to no residual activity, thus will only control weeds that have emerged and are actively growing. Applying them with fertilizer in January or February when weeds are dormant will not provide good mustard control. In addition, special care should be taken to ensure wheat is fully tillered when 2,4-D is applied to avoid reducing tillering.In the late winter or early spring, blue mustard is perhaps the most difficult of the winter annual broadleaf weeds to control because it bolts very early. To be effective on blue mustard, herbicides typically need to be applied in late February or early March. Blue mustard is more difficult to control than tansy mustard with 2,4-D because blue mustard has often already bolted by the time 2,4-D can be safely applied to wheat. Thus, 2,4-D is often applied too late to be effective on blue mustard.Flixweed and tansy mustard should be treated when they are no larger than two to three inches across and two to three inches tall. As these plants become larger, control decreases dramatically. Ester formulations of 2,4-D and MCPA are more effective on tansy mustard and flixweed than amine formulations. Field pennycress is easier to control than tansy mustard or flixweed. Herbicide applications made before the pennycress bolts are usually effective.Crop rotation with corn, grain sorghum, soybeans, or sunflowers is a good way of managing mustards as long as they are controlled in the spring before producing seeds. Crop rotation will usually result in a gradual reduction of mustard populations in the future as the seedbank in the soil decreases.Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.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: Control of mustards in wheat, timely treatment is important

The kickoff for "Christmas Magic" has begun.

This is a local program where we make up gift bags for veterans, the elderly and house-bound folks who will have no one else to remember them at Christmas.

This program receives no funds through United Way, etc. It is completely local and made to happen by Hays area residents watching out for one another.

Our elves deliver to people in apartments, individual homes, assisted living and nursing homes.

This year, our sixth, we will be delivering 120 bags.

To get our numbers we contact the various agencies who assist our veterans and shut-ins, LINK staff and our local nursing homes and they give us their numbers. So far, with God's help, we have been able to meet the numbers given to us each year.

Our gift bags are filled with full sized item such as Pantene 2-in-1 Shampoo &amp; Conditioner, Vaseline Hand &amp; Body Lotion, a deck of playing cards, a stress ball, a large-print word search book, cookies, candy canes, a bottle of body wash, a back scratcher, etc.

You can sponsor a bag for a donation of $25 per bag. (The actual value of each bag is just under $45.)

If you choose to sponsor a bag you can attach a Christmas card to the bag with a greeting from yourself or your family.

Our group makes absolutely no money on this program, nor do we charge any administrative costs to be taken from monies donated. In fact, we kick off the program each year with a $500 donation. We also cover the cost of the treat bags we give to our Scout volunteers and the cost of all correspondence.

This year the gift bags will be given out on the 23rd of December and with projected shipping delays, time is of the essence.

Our projected total cost this year is $5,900. Thanks to donations we had left from last year and a very generous donation we received this year, we only need to raise $4,600 more.

We are registered with the state of Kansas as a non-profit, but we do not have a tax-exempt number. (The cost of getting one would be nearly as much as our annual budget.)

Please open your hearts to making Christmas merry for a forgotten one.

Christmas Magic c/o Commerce Bank 2200 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601

Or you can just drop by Commerce and make a donation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699462272095.jpeg" alt="Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Ascension Living Via Christi Village in Hays through the 2022 Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Ascension Living Via Christi Village in Hays through the 2022 Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe kickoff for "Christmas Magic" has begun.This is a local program where we make up gift bags for veterans, the elderly and house-bound folks who will have no one else to remember them at Christmas.This program receives no funds through United Way, etc. It is completely local and made to happen by Hays area residents watching out for one another.Our elves deliver to people in apartments, individual homes, assisted living and nursing homes.This year, our sixth, we will be delivering 120 bags.To get our numbers we contact the various agencies who assist our veterans and shut-ins, LINK staff and our local nursing homes and they give us their numbers. So far, with God's help, we have been able to meet the numbers given to us each year.Our gift bags are filled with full sized item such as Pantene 2-in-1 Shampoo &amp; Conditioner, Vaseline Hand &amp; Body Lotion, a deck of playing cards, a stress ball, a large-print word search book, cookies, candy canes, a bottle of body wash, a back scratcher, etc.You can sponsor a bag for a donation of $25 per bag. (The actual value of each bag is just under $45.)If you choose to sponsor a bag you can attach a Christmas card to the bag with a greeting from yourself or your family.Our group makes absolutely no money on this program, nor do we charge any administrative costs to be taken from monies donated. In fact, we kick off the program each year with a $500 donation. We also cover the cost of the treat bags we give to our Scout volunteers and the cost of all correspondence.This year the gift bags will be given out on the 23rd of December and with projected shipping delays, time is of the essence.Our projected total cost this year is $5,900. Thanks to donations we had left from last year and a very generous donation we received this year, we only need to raise $4,600 more.We are registered with the state of Kansas as a non-profit, but we do not have a tax-exempt number. (The cost of getting one would be nearly as much as our annual budget.)Please open your hearts to making Christmas merry for a forgotten one.You can send your donations to:Christmas Magic c/o Commerce Bank 2200 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601 Or you can just drop by Commerce and make a donation.

Donations sought for 'Christmas Magic' gifts for local veterans, elderly 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699646925698.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>

LAWRENCE — KU’s Wheat State Tour is back. Twenty-five University of Kansas faculty and staff will take a weekend journey across Kansas to explore the state’s history, economy, culture and geography.

“We’re so glad to be able to deepen our knowledge of Kansas and bring back one of the events that has been so positive for KU in the past,” said Giselle Anatol, interim director of the Hall Center for the Humanities.

This year’s tour takes place Nov. 10-11, with stops at Wilson, home to the state’s largest Czech population; the grassroots arts scene of Lucas; and historic Nicodemus, the last all-Black settlement west of the Mississippi River.

Nicodemus was a migration point for formerly enslaved people in the late 1800s.

The group’s visit there will be guided by historian Angela Bates, one of the descendants of the early settlers of Nicodemus. “Bates is retiring soon, so we are very fortunate to have her lead us,” said Anatol. “She’s a Kansas treasure.”

The first Wheat State Tours began two decades ago and were designed to take faculty and staff, many new to Kansas, throughout the state to gain a better understanding of where many of their students come from and to learn more about the state they serve. Over the years, participants have included faculty and staff from the Lawrence campus, KU Medical Center in Kansas City, and KU School of Medicine-Wichita.

During the tour, KU faculty and staff will engage in discussions with the people of Kansas to develop ideas about how the university can be of further assistance to the Wheat State. Along the way, participants get a chance to share their expertise with colleagues from other disciplines as well as with community members.

“I am so excited to be able to revitalize the program this year,” Anatol said. “I’m grateful to the donors who believe in the relevance of programs like this; there’s great potential for building bridges.”

Recommendations for future tour stops are welcome. Contact KU’s Hall Center for the Humanities at hchcom@ku.edu with suggestions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699371971135.png" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — KU’s Wheat State Tour is back. Twenty-five University of Kansas faculty and staff will take a weekend journey across Kansas to explore the state’s history, economy, culture and geography.“We’re so glad to be able to deepen our knowledge of Kansas and bring back one of the events that has been so positive for KU in the past,” said Giselle Anatol, interim director of the Hall Center for the Humanities.This year’s tour takes place Nov. 10-11, with stops at Wilson, home to the state’s largest Czech population; the grassroots arts scene of Lucas; and historic Nicodemus, the last all-Black settlement west of the Mississippi River.Nicodemus was a migration point for formerly enslaved people in the late 1800s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699371577511.jpeg" alt="Angela Bates, Nicodemus, at the KU Hall Center for the Humanities in Sep. 2023. University of Kansas photo" />
 <figcaption>Angela Bates, Nicodemus, at the KU Hall Center for the Humanities in Sep. 2023. University of Kansas photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The group’s visit there will be guided by historian Angela Bates, one of the descendants of the early settlers of Nicodemus. “Bates is retiring soon, so we are very fortunate to have her lead us,” said Anatol. “She’s a Kansas treasure.”The first Wheat State Tours began two decades ago and were designed to take faculty and staff, many new to Kansas, throughout the state to gain a better understanding of where many of their students come from and to learn more about the state they serve. Over the years, participants have included faculty and staff from the Lawrence campus, KU Medical Center in Kansas City, and KU School of Medicine-Wichita.During the tour, KU faculty and staff will engage in discussions with the people of Kansas to develop ideas about how the university can be of further assistance to the Wheat State. Along the way, participants get a chance to share their expertise with colleagues from other disciplines as well as with community members.“I am so excited to be able to revitalize the program this year,” Anatol said. “I’m grateful to the donors who believe in the relevance of programs like this; there’s great potential for building bridges.”Recommendations for future tour stops are welcome. Contact KU’s Hall Center for the Humanities at hchcom@ku.edu with suggestions.

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