<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/2023/10/1697825862542.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

This past Wednesday, K-State’s Living Well Wednesday series kicked off with caution against e-cigarettes. This topic has become extremely prevalent since I began as the Family and Community Wellness agent in June, so I am excited to share the great insight of Donna Gerstner who gave this past week’s Live Well Wednesday presentation.

· 60.4% of students who use e-cigarettes – also known as vaping – on a regular basis have reported symptoms of depression, compared to 29.1% of those who have never used e-cigarettes.

· 42.5% of those who use e-cigarettes are more likely to self-harm; 42% plan on it; 37.5% will attempt self-harm.

· 8 out of 10 youth who use e-cigarettes reported additional substance abuse, including alcohol and marijuana.

“So you see that it’s really scary that youth are using vapes because it causes suicidal behavior,” said Gerstner, who coordinates grants aimed at chronic disease risk reduction and e-cigarette prevention.

In Kansas, more than 48% of high school students have tried e-cigarettes and 22% are currently users, according to the state’s Division of Public Health surveys.

Health officials say tobacco use among youth, including vaping, has negative consequences that ultimately cause more than 60,000 Kansans under age 18 to die prematurely from smoking.

“The tobacco industry is creating vaping products that appeal to young people,” Gerstner said. “This includes vaping pens that look like USB drives, ballpoint pens, watches and even vape wear, such as a hoodie where the vape comes out of the drawstrings.”

Vaping gained popularity in part because youth believed it was less harmful than smoking, was less expensive and many e-cigarettes came in various flavors.

But, Gerstner says, don’t be fooled by the lack of smoke produced from e-cigarettes. The cloud produced by e-cigarettes may appear to be water vapor, but in actuality it is a harmful aerosol of poisons that actually sticks to surfaces and creates a phenomenon known as third-hand smoke.

“Think of hairspray…what does it do? It doesn’t go away when you spray it on your hair,” Gerstner said.

“When somebody is vaping in an area, they leave chemicals on nearby surfaces, then dust reacts to other chemicals in the environment to form toxic chemicals. That’s third-hand smoke. These are potentially harmful chemicals that people and animals can be exposed to through the respiratory system. Small children are especially at-risk for third-hand smoke exposure because they always put everything in their mouth.”

In Garden City, Gerstner has been involved in efforts to pass a city and county ordinance that banned the sale of vaping products to teens. Currently, a group is working to change a school policy to eliminate a first-offense suspension for youth caught with vaping products, which only serves to give the opportunity for youth to stay home and vape there.

“Instead,” she said, “we need to give those youth the tools that they can use to help themselves.”

“We also have a statewide youth program called RESIST to fight against the tobacco industry’s manipulative marketing tactics,” Gerstner said. “Local chapters work to educate their peers and advocate for local policies that restrict access to tobacco products.”

Gerstner spoke at length on the topic during the K-State Research and Extension online series, Living Well Wednesday. Her presentation, titled ‘It’s Not So Kool to JUUL,’ is available to view online.

The Living Well Wednesday series continues Nov. 1 with a presentation titled "Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried do Parents Need to Be?" The series is free, but those interested are required to register online to receive a link where the session can be accessed.

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 krwinkel@ksu.edu.&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>This past Wednesday, K-State’s Living Well Wednesday series kicked off with caution against e-cigarettes. This topic has become extremely prevalent since I began as the Family and Community Wellness agent in June, so I am excited to share the great insight of Donna Gerstner who gave this past week’s Live Well Wednesday presentation. Consider:· 60.4% of students who use e-cigarettes – also known as vaping – on a regular basis have reported symptoms of depression, compared to 29.1% of those who have never used e-cigarettes.· 42.5% of those who use e-cigarettes are more likely to self-harm; 42% plan on it; 37.5% will attempt self-harm.· 8 out of 10 youth who use e-cigarettes reported additional substance abuse, including alcohol and marijuana.“So you see that it’s really scary that youth are using vapes because it causes suicidal behavior,” said Gerstner, who coordinates grants aimed at chronic disease risk reduction and e-cigarette prevention.In Kansas, more than 48% of high school students have tried e-cigarettes and 22% are currently users, according to the state’s Division of Public Health surveys.Health officials say tobacco use among youth, including vaping, has negative consequences that ultimately cause more than 60,000 Kansans under age 18 to die prematurely from smoking.“The tobacco industry is creating vaping products that appeal to young people,” Gerstner said. “This includes vaping pens that look like USB drives, ballpoint pens, watches and even vape wear, such as a hoodie where the vape comes out of the drawstrings.”Vaping gained popularity in part because youth believed it was less harmful than smoking, was less expensive and many e-cigarettes came in various flavors.But, Gerstner says, don’t be fooled by the lack of smoke produced from e-cigarettes. The cloud produced by e-cigarettes may appear to be water vapor, but in actuality it is a harmful aerosol of poisons that actually sticks to surfaces and creates a phenomenon known as third-hand smoke.“Think of hairspray…what does it do? It doesn’t go away when you spray it on your hair,” Gerstner said.“When somebody is vaping in an area, they leave chemicals on nearby surfaces, then dust reacts to other chemicals in the environment to form toxic chemicals. That’s third-hand smoke. These are potentially harmful chemicals that people and animals can be exposed to through the respiratory system. Small children are especially at-risk for third-hand smoke exposure because they always put everything in their mouth.”In Garden City, Gerstner has been involved in efforts to pass a city and county ordinance that banned the sale of vaping products to teens. Currently, a group is working to change a school policy to eliminate a first-offense suspension for youth caught with vaping products, which only serves to give the opportunity for youth to stay home and vape there.“Instead,” she said, “we need to give those youth the tools that they can use to help themselves.”“We also have a statewide youth program called RESIST to fight against the tobacco industry’s manipulative marketing tactics,” Gerstner said. “Local chapters work to educate their peers and advocate for local policies that restrict access to tobacco products.”Gerstner spoke at length on the topic during the K-State Research and Extension online series, Living Well Wednesday. Her presentation, titled ‘It’s Not So Kool to JUUL,’ is available to view online.The Living Well Wednesday series continues Nov. 1 with a presentation titled "Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried do Parents Need to Be?" The series is free, but those interested are required to register online to receive a link where the session can be accessed.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 krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: ‘It’s not Kool to JUUL’: Expert warns of vaping use among teens

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 speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about a $3.6 million grant award for The Grove Housing Development's Community Center.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e1911553-5d6e-4e1e-a3dc-c8bf32b3847a" target="_blank">Read about the grant award at "Hays' Grove housing development receives $3.6 M grant for community center</a>."

<div><iframe title="Grove Community Center receives $3.6 M grant" 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=sfaa3-14d80eb-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 speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about a $3.6 million grant award for The Grove Housing Development's Community Center.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e1911553-5d6e-4e1e-a3dc-c8bf32b3847a" target="_blank">Read about the grant award at "Hays' Grove housing development receives $3.6 M grant for community center</a>."

🎙 Post Podcast: Grove Community Center receives $3.6 M grant 

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that $300,000 has been awarded to the 12 Rural by Choice Champions (Rural Champions) announced last year in collaboration with the Office of Rural Prosperity and the Patterson Family Foundation to address local challenges in their respective communities. The funding will allow these communities to move into the implementation phase of their projects.&nbsp;

“Throughout my time in office, my administration has worked relentlessly to advance economic development, build affordable housing, and expand child care availability to ensure prosperity reaches every corner of the state,” Kelly said. “This funding allows Rural Champions to drive success in rural communities that until now did not have the resources necessary to complete these projects.”&nbsp;

Over the past&nbsp;ten&nbsp;months,&nbsp;the Rural Champions have been bringing together volunteers and community&nbsp;organizations, uncovering additional resources,&nbsp;and&nbsp;building&nbsp;conversations around their unique&nbsp;challenges. The Champions have&nbsp;identified&nbsp;and developed&nbsp;steps&nbsp;to&nbsp;make progress in their communities.  &nbsp;

The&nbsp;twelve&nbsp;Rural Champion organizations are being awarded $25,000&nbsp;each&nbsp;to assist in those steps through project implementation grants. Rural Champions have developed creative programs to provide direct impact in their communities, such as housing incentive programs, mini-grant programs for&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;providers, beautification mini-grant programs, and to leverage additional grant applications.&nbsp;

“The Rural Champions are marshaling resources and removing barriers to progress by getting community buy-in right from the start,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The relatively modest funding support will have an enormous impact moving forward as the communities resolve critical local issues.”&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Rural Champion projects include:&nbsp;

• City of Kingman, Kingman County:&nbsp;Create&nbsp;a&nbsp;mini-grant fund to help provide matching funds for&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;providers to purchase supplies or equipment &nbsp;&nbsp;

• Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation:&nbsp;Continue supporting efforts of the&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;coalition&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Grow Clay County:&nbsp;Work with&nbsp;the&nbsp;school district to remodel classrooms&nbsp;for&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;and provide furnishings, toys,&nbsp;and supplies &nbsp;&nbsp;

• Oberlin Unified School District 294:&nbsp;Renovate and transition a home&nbsp;into a&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;center and market the&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;coalition  &nbsp;

Community Development/Entrepreneurship&nbsp;

• Graham County:&nbsp;Establish a travel and tourism organization and marketing materials and develop a county leadership program &nbsp;&nbsp;

• Wallace County:&nbsp;Support existing business improvement mini-grant fund and expand marketing efforts of programs&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Junction City Main Street:&nbsp;Market and promote the Main Street Market and purchase equipment to improve events  &nbsp;

• City of Harper and City of Anthony:&nbsp;Create&nbsp;housing incentive programs for property owners&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Linn County:&nbsp;Fund housing incentive programs &nbsp;

• Morton County: Mental Health Champion, Renovate access centers, mini-grants for continued maintenance, and support efforts in sharing resources at schools  &nbsp;

• Lincoln County Economic Development Foundation:&nbsp;Create mini-grants fund for community placemaking and beautification&nbsp;projects

• Community Foundation for Independence:&nbsp;Development of trails as well as walking tours and beautification

“This program is fueling local initiatives driven by Rural Champions who are passionate about being change-makers in their communities,”&nbsp;said Dr. Kevin Prine, president and CEO of the Patterson Family Foundation. “Our foundation is pleased to be a part of this collaborative effort. We’re excited that Rural Champions are developing roadmaps that can be used to help address these challenges in many other rural communities.”&nbsp;

“We are very excited about the work these 12 Rural Champions have put into their projects,”&nbsp;Office of Rural Prosperity Director Trisha Purdon said. “This network of Champions will continue to grow, and the knowledge gained will be shared with communities facing similar challenges across the state.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

As Rural Champions continue their work to combine their learned experiences to develop the guidebooks through this process, the Office of Rural Prosperity will continue to&nbsp;provide assistance&nbsp;on these projects through 2024 to implement and carry&nbsp;out these programs. 

You can learn more about the Rural Champions and find&nbsp;out&nbsp;how to follow their projects&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9vcnAvcnVyYWxjaGFtcGlvbnMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAxNy44NDIwOTk1MSJ9.YnvpoNRMS_QSKt38EGC4mQ863VhKbm3aV0xx3pn6iAg/s/1303179659/br/228484815344-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697572551918.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that $300,000 has been awarded to the 12 Rural by Choice Champions (Rural Champions) announced last year in collaboration with the Office of Rural Prosperity and the Patterson Family Foundation to address local challenges in their respective communities. The funding will allow these communities to move into the implementation phase of their projects.&nbsp;“Throughout my time in office, my administration has worked relentlessly to advance economic development, build affordable housing, and expand child care availability to ensure prosperity reaches every corner of the state,” Kelly said. “This funding allows Rural Champions to drive success in rural communities that until now did not have the resources necessary to complete these projects.”&nbsp;Over the past&nbsp;ten&nbsp;months,&nbsp;the Rural Champions have been bringing together volunteers and community&nbsp;organizations, uncovering additional resources,&nbsp;and&nbsp;building&nbsp;conversations around their unique&nbsp;challenges. The Champions have&nbsp;identified&nbsp;and developed&nbsp;steps&nbsp;to&nbsp;make progress in their communities.  &nbsp;The&nbsp;twelve&nbsp;Rural Champion organizations are being awarded $25,000&nbsp;each&nbsp;to assist in those steps through project implementation grants. Rural Champions have developed creative programs to provide direct impact in their communities, such as housing incentive programs, mini-grant programs for&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;providers, beautification mini-grant programs, and to leverage additional grant applications.&nbsp;“The Rural Champions are marshaling resources and removing barriers to progress by getting community buy-in right from the start,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The relatively modest funding support will have an enormous impact moving forward as the communities resolve critical local issues.”&nbsp;The&nbsp;Rural Champion projects include:&nbsp;Child&nbsp;Care&nbsp;• City of Kingman, Kingman County:&nbsp;Create&nbsp;a&nbsp;mini-grant fund to help provide matching funds for&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;providers to purchase supplies or equipment &nbsp;&nbsp;• Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation:&nbsp;Continue supporting efforts of the&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;coalition&nbsp;&nbsp;• Grow Clay County:&nbsp;Work with&nbsp;the&nbsp;school district to remodel classrooms&nbsp;for&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;and provide furnishings, toys,&nbsp;and supplies &nbsp;&nbsp;• Oberlin Unified School District 294:&nbsp;Renovate and transition a home&nbsp;into a&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;center and market the&nbsp;child&nbsp;care&nbsp;coalition  &nbsp;Community Development/Entrepreneurship&nbsp;• Graham County:&nbsp;Establish a travel and tourism organization and marketing materials and develop a county leadership program &nbsp;&nbsp;• Wallace County:&nbsp;Support existing business improvement mini-grant fund and expand marketing efforts of programs&nbsp;&nbsp;• Junction City Main Street:&nbsp;Market and promote the Main Street Market and purchase equipment to improve events  &nbsp;Housing&nbsp;• City of Harper and City of Anthony:&nbsp;Create&nbsp;housing incentive programs for property owners&nbsp;&nbsp;• Linn County:&nbsp;Fund housing incentive programs &nbsp;Mental Health &nbsp;• Morton County: Mental Health Champion, Renovate access centers, mini-grants for continued maintenance, and support efforts in sharing resources at schools  &nbsp;Placemaking/Workforce&nbsp;• Lincoln County Economic Development Foundation:&nbsp;Create mini-grants fund for community placemaking and beautification&nbsp;projectsTrails/Wellness&nbsp;• Community Foundation for Independence:&nbsp;Development of trails as well as walking tours and beautification“This program is fueling local initiatives driven by Rural Champions who are passionate about being change-makers in their communities,”&nbsp;said Dr. Kevin Prine, president and CEO of the Patterson Family Foundation. “Our foundation is pleased to be a part of this collaborative effort. We’re excited that Rural Champions are developing roadmaps that can be used to help address these challenges in many other rural communities.”&nbsp;“We are very excited about the work these 12 Rural Champions have put into their projects,”&nbsp;Office of Rural Prosperity Director Trisha Purdon said. “This network of Champions will continue to grow, and the knowledge gained will be shared with communities facing similar challenges across the state.”&nbsp;&nbsp;As Rural Champions continue their work to combine their learned experiences to develop the guidebooks through this process, the Office of Rural Prosperity will continue to&nbsp;provide assistance&nbsp;on these projects through 2024 to implement and carry&nbsp;out these programs. You can learn more about the Rural Champions and find&nbsp;out&nbsp;how to follow their projects&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9vcnAvcnVyYWxjaGFtcGlvbnMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAxNy44NDIwOTk1MSJ9.YnvpoNRMS_QSKt38EGC4mQ863VhKbm3aV0xx3pn6iAg/s/1303179659/br/228484815344-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

Regional groups receive Rural by Choice Champions funding

BELOIT and HAYS – North Central Kansas Technical College is proud to announce a significant achievement in its ongoing commitment to student success. 

Thanks to the generous support of numerous donors, in collaboration with the North Central Kansas Technical College Endowment Association and Foundation, a record-breaking 48 scholarships totaling $107,300 have been awarded to 79 students across both the Beloit and Hays campuses during the 2023 academic year.

These scholarships, endowed by dedicated benefactors, have been established to provide vital financial assistance to students pursuing a variety of programs at NCK Tech. The enduring legacy of these donors is reflected in the annual scholarships they have created, ensuring that students receive support not only now but into the future.

In a celebratory event, NCK Tech hosted receptions for students and donors on both the Hays campus on September 27 and the Beloit campus&nbsp; on October 4. During these gatherings, a total of 48 scholarships were presented, many of which included multiple awards.

The 2023 scholarship awards mark a significant increase compared to the 2021 awards, when 22 scholarships benefited 49 students across both campuses. This growth in scholarships reflects NCK Tech's unwavering dedication to expanding access to education, providing more students from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Scholarships play a pivotal role in enabling students to concentrate on their studies without the added burden of financial stress, allowing them to fully dedicate their time and energy to their academic pursuits. This positive change is a testament to the understanding of the importance of diversity in the academic community.

The success of these scholarship programs would not be possible without the generosity and commitment of the benefactors who have made them a reality. Their belief in the potential of students and their dedication to education have set an inspiring example, encouraging the recipients to pay it forward and support future generations in their pursuit of knowledge.

These benefactors include individual donors, businesses, organizations and foundations. Scholarships are often started to memorialize friends and family members, honor those who worked in or were positively impacted by someone in a field taught at NCK Tech, or to help students who will benefit the workforce or the community.

Eric Burks, president of North Central Kansas Technical College, expressed his gratitude, saying, "Honoring the legacy of our donors, their contributions, and their leadership in educating our future workforce is a pleasure, and we can't thank them enough for their generosity. Many thanks to the support of all of our donors and particularly the Dane G. Hansen Foundation for matching 1:1 for endowed scholarships. Their matching program has helped grow our endowed funds over the last three years.”

Mendi Anschutz, director of advancement for the North Central Kansas Technical College Endowment Association and Foundation, added, "We are deeply grateful to these donors for establishing these important scholarship funds, which we are honored to administer."

For more information about North Central Kansas Technical College and its scholarship programs, please visit <a href="https://ncktc.edu/foundation/">ncktc.edu/foundation/ </a>or contact Mendi Anschutz at 785-738-9090.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617203772402.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechBELOIT and HAYS – North Central Kansas Technical College is proud to announce a significant achievement in its ongoing commitment to student success. Thanks to the generous support of numerous donors, in collaboration with the North Central Kansas Technical College Endowment Association and Foundation, a record-breaking 48 scholarships totaling $107,300 have been awarded to 79 students across both the Beloit and Hays campuses during the 2023 academic year.These scholarships, endowed by dedicated benefactors, have been established to provide vital financial assistance to students pursuing a variety of programs at NCK Tech. The enduring legacy of these donors is reflected in the annual scholarships they have created, ensuring that students receive support not only now but into the future.In a celebratory event, NCK Tech hosted receptions for students and donors on both the Hays campus on September 27 and the Beloit campus&nbsp; on October 4. During these gatherings, a total of 48 scholarships were presented, many of which included multiple awards.The 2023 scholarship awards mark a significant increase compared to the 2021 awards, when 22 scholarships benefited 49 students across both campuses. This growth in scholarships reflects NCK Tech's unwavering dedication to expanding access to education, providing more students from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to pursue higher education.Scholarships play a pivotal role in enabling students to concentrate on their studies without the added burden of financial stress, allowing them to fully dedicate their time and energy to their academic pursuits. This positive change is a testament to the understanding of the importance of diversity in the academic community.The success of these scholarship programs would not be possible without the generosity and commitment of the benefactors who have made them a reality. Their belief in the potential of students and their dedication to education have set an inspiring example, encouraging the recipients to pay it forward and support future generations in their pursuit of knowledge.These benefactors include individual donors, businesses, organizations and foundations. Scholarships are often started to memorialize friends and family members, honor those who worked in or were positively impacted by someone in a field taught at NCK Tech, or to help students who will benefit the workforce or the community.Eric Burks, president of North Central Kansas Technical College, expressed his gratitude, saying, "Honoring the legacy of our donors, their contributions, and their leadership in educating our future workforce is a pleasure, and we can't thank them enough for their generosity. Many thanks to the support of all of our donors and particularly the Dane G. Hansen Foundation for matching 1:1 for endowed scholarships. Their matching program has helped grow our endowed funds over the last three years.”Mendi Anschutz, director of advancement for the North Central Kansas Technical College Endowment Association and Foundation, added, "We are deeply grateful to these donors for establishing these important scholarship funds, which we are honored to administer."For more information about North Central Kansas Technical College and its scholarship programs, please visit <a href="https://ncktc.edu/foundation/">ncktc.edu/foundation/ </a>or contact Mendi Anschutz at 785-738-9090.

NCK Technical College celebrates record number of student scholarships 

PRATT&nbsp;– The time for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9Ucm91dC1GaXNoaW5nLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.aZLTzdeQa58BDMwOqhlBEec7JQMezM4th8yJFxihMew/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">trout fishing in Kansas</a>&nbsp;is drawing nearer, and this year the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is making angler-inspired updates to the nearly 30-year-old program to improve angler satisfaction and program efficiency while managing around increasing commodity costs.

Based largely off of on-site interviews conducted with licensed anglers at 25 waterbodies across the state in early 2023, the fisheries division staff will implement the following for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9Ucm91dC1GaXNoaW5nLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.sNFDN9DYhDTFZFInSWXiEd137ln8JgmMWIxhSy4RqnU/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">Kansas’ 2023-2024 trout season</a>:

• Trout fishing waters will be stocked, and the season will begin, on December 1 (as opposed to November 1, so as not to compromise fish health in warmer water often experienced in November)&nbsp;

• Each trout fishing water will be stocked during the most fished months of the trout season (as opposed to season-wide stockings at indiscriminate times)&nbsp;

• The season will conclude at the end of March (as opposed to April 15), as only three percent of respondents indicated they fish for trout most in April&nbsp;

• KDWP will stock less often but with higher densities of trout –&nbsp;an indicated preference of anglers surveyed

In total, KDWP plans to stock 30 waterbodies this fall with approximately 62,000 pounds of rainbow trout, providing anglers with ample wintertime fishing opportunities, while simultaneously not competing with other time-honored hunting and fishing traditions.

“The trout program is something we’ve been happy to support in Kansas since 1994,” said Jeff Conley, program specialist. “However, over the years, we’ve made very few changes. This new format gives us the ability to continue the program during its most popular months, at higher stocking densities, while managing increasing costs for the fish, so the feedback received will definitely make us all more efficient.”

While most fish stocked will be rainbow trout, Kansas anglers can occasionally catch a palomino or golden rainbow trout. Not to be confused with golden trout, golden rainbow trout have a genetic variation that many fish growers selectively breed to create a novelty fish for anglers to pursue.

“All fish stocked will be a catchable size, but a few lunkers will also be added to give anglers extra opportunity to catch a trophy,” added Conley. “We can’t wait to see who catches them.”

Anglers 16 and older who wish to fish for trout must possess a $14.50 Trout Permit and fishing license, unless exempt. Kansas youth 15 and younger must possess a Youth Trout Permit, which can be purchased for just $7 (NOTE: Youth age 15 and younger are not required to have a fishing license). All anglers with a trout permit may keep up to five trout per day, unless posted otherwise.

To purchase a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9GaXNoaW5nLVJlZ3VsYXRpb25zL1Ryb3V0LVBlcm1pdCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMTYuODQxNTc5NzEifQ.x9SAfY6m4GKiZr_tXFkbRnFgnASwHcOQJldEDnr1VDY/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">trout permit</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbGljZW5zZS5nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS9MaWNlbnNpbmcvQ3VzdG9tZXJMb29rdXAuYXNweCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMTYuODQxNTc5NzEifQ.XoC6y7BnYLxVK4WikQakQBJP-nB21DUwDROUvVZdQqM/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKansas.com</a>, download the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0tEV1AtTW9iaWxlLUFwcHMvR29PdXRkb29yc0tTLU1vYmlsZS1BcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.jrovB1ypCSAMOwuL64D6X81LSq2k-ywOa0EeIGVuE3c/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKS</a>&nbsp;mobile app, or visit a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy10by1CdXktTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAxNi44NDE1Nzk3MSJ9._KsSYBWfW0oo61pewnriV_RHLqHbvtLdlucJIubAEQI/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">license vendor nearest you</a>.

For more information on trout fishing in Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9Ucm91dC1GaXNoaW5nLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.tvUZ2E-60DUd5wUp8yMSNceVVGqZ6ZzTDbbfxp2Llhg/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546193736.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– The time for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9Ucm91dC1GaXNoaW5nLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.aZLTzdeQa58BDMwOqhlBEec7JQMezM4th8yJFxihMew/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">trout fishing in Kansas</a>&nbsp;is drawing nearer, and this year the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is making angler-inspired updates to the nearly 30-year-old program to improve angler satisfaction and program efficiency while managing around increasing commodity costs.Based largely off of on-site interviews conducted with licensed anglers at 25 waterbodies across the state in early 2023, the fisheries division staff will implement the following for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9Ucm91dC1GaXNoaW5nLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.sNFDN9DYhDTFZFInSWXiEd137ln8JgmMWIxhSy4RqnU/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">Kansas’ 2023-2024 trout season</a>:• Trout fishing waters will be stocked, and the season will begin, on December 1 (as opposed to November 1, so as not to compromise fish health in warmer water often experienced in November)&nbsp;• Each trout fishing water will be stocked during the most fished months of the trout season (as opposed to season-wide stockings at indiscriminate times)&nbsp;• The season will conclude at the end of March (as opposed to April 15), as only three percent of respondents indicated they fish for trout most in April&nbsp;• KDWP will stock less often but with higher densities of trout –&nbsp;an indicated preference of anglers surveyedIn total, KDWP plans to stock 30 waterbodies this fall with approximately 62,000 pounds of rainbow trout, providing anglers with ample wintertime fishing opportunities, while simultaneously not competing with other time-honored hunting and fishing traditions.“The trout program is something we’ve been happy to support in Kansas since 1994,” said Jeff Conley, program specialist. “However, over the years, we’ve made very few changes. This new format gives us the ability to continue the program during its most popular months, at higher stocking densities, while managing increasing costs for the fish, so the feedback received will definitely make us all more efficient.”While most fish stocked will be rainbow trout, Kansas anglers can occasionally catch a palomino or golden rainbow trout. Not to be confused with golden trout, golden rainbow trout have a genetic variation that many fish growers selectively breed to create a novelty fish for anglers to pursue.“All fish stocked will be a catchable size, but a few lunkers will also be added to give anglers extra opportunity to catch a trophy,” added Conley. “We can’t wait to see who catches them.”Anglers 16 and older who wish to fish for trout must possess a $14.50 Trout Permit and fishing license, unless exempt. Kansas youth 15 and younger must possess a Youth Trout Permit, which can be purchased for just $7 (NOTE: Youth age 15 and younger are not required to have a fishing license). All anglers with a trout permit may keep up to five trout per day, unless posted otherwise.To purchase a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9GaXNoaW5nLVJlZ3VsYXRpb25zL1Ryb3V0LVBlcm1pdCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMTYuODQxNTc5NzEifQ.x9SAfY6m4GKiZr_tXFkbRnFgnASwHcOQJldEDnr1VDY/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">trout permit</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbGljZW5zZS5nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS9MaWNlbnNpbmcvQ3VzdG9tZXJMb29rdXAuYXNweCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMTYuODQxNTc5NzEifQ.XoC6y7BnYLxVK4WikQakQBJP-nB21DUwDROUvVZdQqM/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKansas.com</a>, download the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0tEV1AtTW9iaWxlLUFwcHMvR29PdXRkb29yc0tTLU1vYmlsZS1BcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.jrovB1ypCSAMOwuL64D6X81LSq2k-ywOa0EeIGVuE3c/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKS</a>&nbsp;mobile app, or visit a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy10by1CdXktTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAxNi44NDE1Nzk3MSJ9._KsSYBWfW0oo61pewnriV_RHLqHbvtLdlucJIubAEQI/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">license vendor nearest you</a>.For more information on trout fishing in Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9Ucm91dC1GaXNoaW5nLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDE2Ljg0MTU3OTcxIn0.tvUZ2E-60DUd5wUp8yMSNceVVGqZ6ZzTDbbfxp2Llhg/s/1303161001/br/228156183466-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

KDWP to revamp trout season following suggestions from anglers

Underground drip irrigation has become very popular in Kansas, and along with that seems to have come the problem of gophers chewing holes in the drip tubes, evidently to get to the moisture inside. Those holes, unseen from the surface when the tubes are dry, show up as mudholes in the spring when the irrigation is turned on, requiring the tubes to be dug-up and the holes repaired. Research has been ongoing into placing nest boxes along fields in hopes of attracting barn owls to help catch the gophers and other rodents when they immerge and scurry about after dark.

It’s hard to convince people there are lots of bobcats in Kansas because they are rarely seen, and so it is with barn owls. Barn owls are very secretive and like nesting/roosting sites that are well hidden, so it’s tough to think there are many around. 

Actually, barn owls are the most widely distributed of all owls, and one of the most widely distributed birds overall; they are found on every continent but Antarctica. Barn owls are thought to be the origin of many ghost myths, as their vocalization resembles a scream and they appear “ghost-like” in a dark building. 

Adult barn owls in the USA are from 12 to 15 inches tall with a wingspan of over 40 inches. A falconer friend who has a barn owl named Zoe and is from the UK, tells me that barn owls in the UK are about half that size. 

Barn owls have large, broad wings with soft feathers that allow for silent flight. Their necks are flexible enough to let their heads turn more than 180 degrees in each direction. A very distinctive face with cupped facial discs funnels sounds out to their ears, giving them possibly the best hearing of all common owls. One talon on each foot actually has tiny serrations on one edge like a comb and is thought to help with grooming those facial discs.

Barn owls usually form monogamous pairs and as long as habitat and food availability remain, that pair will nest in the same site for years. 

They are “cavity nesters,” along with kestrels and screech owls, so they can be attracted to nest boxes, and they adapt very readily to human activity as long as their nesting/roosting site is concealed. Clutches of eggs average from 4 to 7, but can be more if prey is abundant. Studies show that the amount of prey available actually dictates the number of eggs laid and the number of chicks fledged, even to the point where two broods of chicks might be raised in a single year if prey is very plentiful. Barn owl eggs are “asynchronous,” meaning incubation begins as each egg is laid, so there will always be older and younger chicks in each brood.

Not to be over-simplistic, but the first key to attracting barn owls to a nest box is an abundance of prey. A friend just recently told me that when he had hogs, there were barn owls in every crack and crevice available in his silo and buildings, because where there are hogs, there are usually an abundance of rodents. Barn owls like open farm country and pastureland. The absolute best hunting habitat for them are areas of rough grass that only occasionally or never gets cut or grazed. These areas of rough grass contain a deep “litter layer” on the ground made up of dead grasses from previous years that encourage rodents to build nests and tunnels. 

Nesting boxes on poles and in the ends of buildings should face or at least be near open farm and pasture land for them to hunt. Since barn owls are so secretive most of the time, sometimes you will only know they are present by seeing “pellets” on the ground near the nest. All owls regurgitate pellets composed of bone, fur and all other undigested material. Fresh owl pellets near a nest box or cavity are sure signs of a renter within.

Barn owl populations are threatened when pesticides are used to kill rodents, when dead trees are cut down and old farm buildings are removed and when grasslands are turned into farm ground. 

In light of those challenges, manmade nesting boxes placed inside existing farm buildings or on poles along field edges are beneficial to attracting God’s “critter-gitters” to your property. 

So, if gophers and other rodents are giving you fits, why not look into erecting an owl nest box or two. Contact me and I’ll point you in the right direction or contact Mark Browning with the Barn Owl Box Company, <a href="https://www.barnowlbox.com/">www.barnowlbox.com</a>, a company the manufactures commercially made barn owl nest boxes.

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>Underground drip irrigation has become very popular in Kansas, and along with that seems to have come the problem of gophers chewing holes in the drip tubes, evidently to get to the moisture inside. Those holes, unseen from the surface when the tubes are dry, show up as mudholes in the spring when the irrigation is turned on, requiring the tubes to be dug-up and the holes repaired. Research has been ongoing into placing nest boxes along fields in hopes of attracting barn owls to help catch the gophers and other rodents when they immerge and scurry about after dark.It’s hard to convince people there are lots of bobcats in Kansas because they are rarely seen, and so it is with barn owls. Barn owls are very secretive and like nesting/roosting sites that are well hidden, so it’s tough to think there are many around. Actually, barn owls are the most widely distributed of all owls, and one of the most widely distributed birds overall; they are found on every continent but Antarctica. Barn owls are thought to be the origin of many ghost myths, as their vocalization resembles a scream and they appear “ghost-like” in a dark building. Adult barn owls in the USA are from 12 to 15 inches tall with a wingspan of over 40 inches. A falconer friend who has a barn owl named Zoe and is from the UK, tells me that barn owls in the UK are about half that size. Barn owls have large, broad wings with soft feathers that allow for silent flight. Their necks are flexible enough to let their heads turn more than 180 degrees in each direction. A very distinctive face with cupped facial discs funnels sounds out to their ears, giving them possibly the best hearing of all common owls. One talon on each foot actually has tiny serrations on one edge like a comb and is thought to help with grooming those facial discs.Barn owls usually form monogamous pairs and as long as habitat and food availability remain, that pair will nest in the same site for years. They are “cavity nesters,” along with kestrels and screech owls, so they can be attracted to nest boxes, and they adapt very readily to human activity as long as their nesting/roosting site is concealed. Clutches of eggs average from 4 to 7, but can be more if prey is abundant. Studies show that the amount of prey available actually dictates the number of eggs laid and the number of chicks fledged, even to the point where two broods of chicks might be raised in a single year if prey is very plentiful. Barn owl eggs are “asynchronous,” meaning incubation begins as each egg is laid, so there will always be older and younger chicks in each brood.Not to be over-simplistic, but the first key to attracting barn owls to a nest box is an abundance of prey. A friend just recently told me that when he had hogs, there were barn owls in every crack and crevice available in his silo and buildings, because where there are hogs, there are usually an abundance of rodents. Barn owls like open farm country and pastureland. The absolute best hunting habitat for them are areas of rough grass that only occasionally or never gets cut or grazed. These areas of rough grass contain a deep “litter layer” on the ground made up of dead grasses from previous years that encourage rodents to build nests and tunnels. Nesting boxes on poles and in the ends of buildings should face or at least be near open farm and pasture land for them to hunt. Since barn owls are so secretive most of the time, sometimes you will only know they are present by seeing “pellets” on the ground near the nest. All owls regurgitate pellets composed of bone, fur and all other undigested material. Fresh owl pellets near a nest box or cavity are sure signs of a renter within.Barn owl populations are threatened when pesticides are used to kill rodents, when dead trees are cut down and old farm buildings are removed and when grasslands are turned into farm ground. In light of those challenges, manmade nesting boxes placed inside existing farm buildings or on poles along field edges are beneficial to attracting God’s “critter-gitters” to your property. So, if gophers and other rodents are giving you fits, why not look into erecting an owl nest box or two. Contact me and I’ll point you in the right direction or contact Mark Browning with the Barn Owl Box Company, <a href="https://www.barnowlbox.com/">www.barnowlbox.com</a>, a company the manufactures commercially made barn owl nest boxes. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at&nbsp;stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoor Kansas: Barn owls; Just one of God’s critter-gitters

Mark MacConnell, automotive technology instructor with North Central Kansas Technical College on the Hays campus, is the recipient of the 2023 Kansas Council for Workforce Education Outstanding New Teacher Award.

The Outstanding New Teacher Award is designed to recognize a faculty member who has less than five years teaching experience and demonstrates outstanding teaching ability in the areas of career and technical education. The recipient exemplifies exceptional student engagement skills inside and outside of the classroom.

MacConnell was nominated for the award by Richard Cox, automotive technology department chair, Hays campus. Cox noted that MacConnell is an excellent instructor, bringing his knowledge and experience from industry into his classroom and lab. MacConnell was involved in NCK Tech prior to teaching. He is a graduate of the program and served for several years as a member of the advisory board.

Jennifer Brown, dean of instruction noted, "Mark is a natural educator. He is not afraid to try new techniques and ideas to help engage students." Cox stated in his nomination, "Mark is a great asset to our program and to our students."

The presentation of this award took place at the annual Fall Kansas Workforce Innovation Conference held on October 3, 2023 in Manhattan, KS. For more information on NCK TECH, visit our website at <a href="https://ncktc.edu/">www.ncktc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546631642.jpeg" alt="Mark MacConnell (left), automotive technology instructor with North Central Kansas Technical College in Hays, is pictured with&nbsp;Richard Cox, automotive technology department chair.&nbsp;MacConnell is the winner of the 2023 Kansas Council for Workforce Education Outstanding New Teacher Award. Photo courtesy NCK TECH." />
 <figcaption>Mark MacConnell (left), automotive technology instructor with North Central Kansas Technical College in Hays, is pictured with&nbsp;Richard Cox, automotive technology department chair.&nbsp;MacConnell is the winner of the 2023 Kansas Council for Workforce Education Outstanding New Teacher Award. Photo courtesy NCK TECH.</figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TECHMark MacConnell, automotive technology instructor with North Central Kansas Technical College on the Hays campus, is the recipient of the 2023 Kansas Council for Workforce Education Outstanding New Teacher Award.The Outstanding New Teacher Award is designed to recognize a faculty member who has less than five years teaching experience and demonstrates outstanding teaching ability in the areas of career and technical education. The recipient exemplifies exceptional student engagement skills inside and outside of the classroom.MacConnell was nominated for the award by Richard Cox, automotive technology department chair, Hays campus. Cox noted that MacConnell is an excellent instructor, bringing his knowledge and experience from industry into his classroom and lab. MacConnell was involved in NCK Tech prior to teaching. He is a graduate of the program and served for several years as a member of the advisory board.Jennifer Brown, dean of instruction noted, "Mark is a natural educator. He is not afraid to try new techniques and ideas to help engage students." Cox stated in his nomination, "Mark is a great asset to our program and to our students."The presentation of this award took place at the annual Fall Kansas Workforce Innovation Conference held on October 3, 2023 in Manhattan, KS. For more information on NCK TECH, visit our website at <a href="https://ncktc.edu/">www.ncktc.edu</a>.

Automotive Technology Instructor Named 2023 Outstanding New Teacher

Last month WalletHub released its list of “Best and Worst Cities for Women,” ranking 182 large cities across the country.

Two Kansas cities — Wichita and Overland Park — made the rankings along with Kansas City, MO.

Though their positions couldn’t be more drastically different.

Overland Park ranked 8th in the country for best cities for women while Wichita ranked 149th. KCMO was ranked 125th.

The methodology used to determine the rankings had several metrics. Measures of women’s economic and social well-being made up 60% and measures of women’s healthcare and safety made up the remaining 40% of the metrics used.

For the former, measures of women’s median earnings (adjusted for the cost of living), unemployment rate, and job security joined the share of women living in poverty, women-owned businesses, and the “economic clout” of women-owned firms to determine women’s economic and social well-being.

On women’s healthcare and safety, the following measures were used: abortion policies and access (weighted double), quality of women’s hospitals, the uninsured rate for women, women’s preventative healthcare, share of physically active women, share of women who are overweight, suicide rate for women, women’s life expectancy at birth, and prevalence of rape victimization among women.

This just goes to show that cities across Kansas vary drastically.

But in general, the state as a whole has much room for improvement.

In a 2020 Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace, and Security report on The Best and Worst States to be a Woman, Kansas ranked below the national average.

Most of Kansas’ rural towns and cities would fare much worse on these measures than even Wichita.

According to United WE, a nonprofit organization in Kansas City that advocates for women’s economic and civic leadership, there is much progress to make statewide on childcare,&nbsp;eldercare, paid family leave, entrepreneurship and occupational licensing, healthcare, and civic engagement.

In United WE’s 2023 report, only broadband access had been rated as having made “significant progress” at the state level. Broadband access impacts women’s ability to seek telehealth services, especially in rural areas.

The state and its localities should be doing more to empower women.

There are many benefits of having women play an increased role in economic and civic life.

Economic Benefits. Academic studies show that women’s presence on corporate boards leads to improved stock performance and increased earnings for employees. Research also finds that women’s presence in corporate leadership consistently yields higher performance and output as well as increased creativity and innovation.

Civic Benefits. There is also a long history of research on the benefits of having women serve in political and civic leadership. Research shows that women are more collaborative and willing to work across partisan lines to find common ground, which often leads to more effective governance. Additionally, women’s presence also leads to economic growth, improved social services, and government accountability and transparency.

States and localities that rank lower for women’s empowerment, economic opportunities, access to healthcare, etc are unlikely to be attractive destinations for women seeking better opportunities and quality of life, and thus miss out on these benefits.

Kansas would reap many advantages from prioritizing women's empowerment and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.

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&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Last month WalletHub released its list of “Best and Worst Cities for Women,” ranking 182 large cities across the country.Two Kansas cities — Wichita and Overland Park — made the rankings along with Kansas City, MO.Though their positions couldn’t be more drastically different.Overland Park ranked 8th in the country for best cities for women while Wichita ranked 149th. KCMO was ranked 125th.The methodology used to determine the rankings had several metrics. Measures of women’s economic and social well-being made up 60% and measures of women’s healthcare and safety made up the remaining 40% of the metrics used.For the former, measures of women’s median earnings (adjusted for the cost of living), unemployment rate, and job security joined the share of women living in poverty, women-owned businesses, and the “economic clout” of women-owned firms to determine women’s economic and social well-being.On women’s healthcare and safety, the following measures were used: abortion policies and access (weighted double), quality of women’s hospitals, the uninsured rate for women, women’s preventative healthcare, share of physically active women, share of women who are overweight, suicide rate for women, women’s life expectancy at birth, and prevalence of rape victimization among women.This just goes to show that cities across Kansas vary drastically.But in general, the state as a whole has much room for improvement.In a 2020 Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace, and Security report on The Best and Worst States to be a Woman, Kansas ranked below the national average.Most of Kansas’ rural towns and cities would fare much worse on these measures than even Wichita.According to United WE, a nonprofit organization in Kansas City that advocates for women’s economic and civic leadership, there is much progress to make statewide on childcare,&nbsp;eldercare, paid family leave, entrepreneurship and occupational licensing, healthcare, and civic engagement.In United WE’s 2023 report, only broadband access had been rated as having made “significant progress” at the state level. Broadband access impacts women’s ability to seek telehealth services, especially in rural areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The state and its localities should be doing more to empower women.Why?There are many benefits of having women play an increased role in economic and civic life.Economic Benefits. Academic studies show that women’s presence on corporate boards leads to improved stock performance and increased earnings for employees. Research also finds that women’s presence in corporate leadership consistently yields higher performance and output as well as increased creativity and innovation.Civic Benefits. There is also a long history of research on the benefits of having women serve in political and civic leadership. Research shows that women are more collaborative and willing to work across partisan lines to find common ground, which often leads to more effective governance. Additionally, women’s presence also leads to economic growth, improved social services, and government accountability and transparency.States and localities that rank lower for women’s empowerment, economic opportunities, access to healthcare, etc are unlikely to be attractive destinations for women seeking better opportunities and quality of life, and thus miss out on these benefits.Kansas would reap many advantages from prioritizing women's empowerment and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the department chair of political science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Empowering Kansas women: The path to economic, civic advancement

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697825831782.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>

Courtney-Spalding Chapter DAR awards presented to Bond with Books 

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;The Morning Blend's Jeff Leiker discusses the role of fiber in the diet with Fort Hays State University's Jessica Phelan.

<div><iframe title="🎙 Post Podcast: Explore the benefits of dietary fiber" 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=j7ct9-14d803c-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;The Morning Blend's Jeff Leiker discusses the role of fiber in the diet with Fort Hays State University's Jessica Phelan.

🎙 Post Podcast: Explore the benefits of dietary fiber

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in November. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

Robert Fryatt, Jr., Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Kansas City&nbsp;

&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp;

Allan Haverkamp, Information Resource Planner/Project Manager,&nbsp;Auburn&nbsp;

Kirk Elliott, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Emporia&nbsp; Scott King, Division Director of Engineering and Design, Topeka • Brad Prester, Equipment Operator Senior, Russell &nbsp;

Sherri Pankratz, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Lincolnville&nbsp;

•Jeremy Belleau, Technology Support Consultant II,&nbsp;Norton Robert Gallagher, Engineering Technician Senior, Holton Micheal Jennings, Equipment Operator Senior, Valley Falls &nbsp;&nbsp; Jonathan Mushock, Assistant CADD Manager, Topeka&nbsp;

•Timothy Kraus, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Wilson •Brian Ross, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Rush Center Scotty Slater, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Yates Center&nbsp; Kort St. Clair, Utility Coordinator, Gardner&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp; David McDaniel, Applications Developer III, Topeka&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597694281633.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in November. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:&nbsp;Robert Fryatt, Jr., Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Kansas City&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp;Allan Haverkamp, Information Resource Planner/Project Manager,&nbsp;Auburn&nbsp;Those celebrating 30 years:&nbsp;Kirk Elliott, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Emporia&nbsp; Scott King, Division Director of Engineering and Design, Topeka • Brad Prester, Equipment Operator Senior, Russell &nbsp; Those celebrating 25 years:&nbsp;Sherri Pankratz, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Lincolnville&nbsp;Those celebrating 20 years:&nbsp;•Jeremy Belleau, Technology Support Consultant II,&nbsp;Norton Robert Gallagher, Engineering Technician Senior, Holton Micheal Jennings, Equipment Operator Senior, Valley Falls &nbsp;&nbsp; Jonathan Mushock, Assistant CADD Manager, Topeka&nbsp; Those celebrating 15 years:&nbsp;•Timothy Kraus, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Wilson •Brian Ross, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Rush Center Scotty Slater, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Yates Center&nbsp; Kort St. Clair, Utility Coordinator, Gardner&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp; David McDaniel, Applications Developer III, Topeka&nbsp;

Area KDOT employees celebrate service anniversaries

LENORA –&nbsp;On Tuesday, October 10, Nex-Tech employees hosted residents of Gem at the Community Center. Nex-Tech recently completed building fiber in the community of Gem, and the event offered residents the opportunity to ask questions about Nex-Tech's Internet, TV, and phone services. &nbsp;

In 2022, Nex-Tech applied for a Capital Projects Fund grant from the Kansas Office of Broadband Development to bring this essential service to areas of Kansas that have been underserved and overcharged for Internet.

The community of Gem, population 96, is located in rural Thomas County in northwestern Kansas. Currently, most residents rely on costly cell phone data plans, or unreliable wireless service to connect to the Internet. &nbsp;

In addition to Gem, the awarded grant funds will enable Nex-Tech to build fiber in rural areas of Decatur County and Saline County, Kansas. Nex-Tech will provide 1 Gig Internet, streaming TV, and voice services. &nbsp;

"We appreciate the large number of residents who attended our event,” said Dustin Schlaefli, director of customer engagement at Nex-Tech. “We also appreciate members of the KOBD who attended and showed their support for our commitment to provide exceptional service at an affordable price, regardless of the size of the community." &nbsp;

Nex-Tech customer sales representatives worked to answer questions and have signed up over 30 homes to receive a reliable and affordable fiber Internet connection by the end of 2023. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697640243638.png" alt="gem 1.png" />
 <figcaption>gem 1.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Nex-TechLENORA –&nbsp;On Tuesday, October 10, Nex-Tech employees hosted residents of Gem at the Community Center. Nex-Tech recently completed building fiber in the community of Gem, and the event offered residents the opportunity to ask questions about Nex-Tech's Internet, TV, and phone services. &nbsp;In 2022, Nex-Tech applied for a Capital Projects Fund grant from the Kansas Office of Broadband Development to bring this essential service to areas of Kansas that have been underserved and overcharged for Internet.The community of Gem, population 96, is located in rural Thomas County in northwestern Kansas. Currently, most residents rely on costly cell phone data plans, or unreliable wireless service to connect to the Internet. &nbsp;In addition to Gem, the awarded grant funds will enable Nex-Tech to build fiber in rural areas of Decatur County and Saline County, Kansas. Nex-Tech will provide 1 Gig Internet, streaming TV, and voice services. &nbsp;"We appreciate the large number of residents who attended our event,” said Dustin Schlaefli, director of customer engagement at Nex-Tech. “We also appreciate members of the KOBD who attended and showed their support for our commitment to provide exceptional service at an affordable price, regardless of the size of the community." &nbsp;Nex-Tech customer sales representatives worked to answer questions and have signed up over 30 homes to receive a reliable and affordable fiber Internet connection by the end of 2023.

Tiny community of Gem now has fiber in town, thanks to Nex-Tech

ARREST&nbsp; UPDATE OCT. 21, 2023: Jauwon Allen was located and arrested by the Hays Police Department Special Situation Response Team, according to a post on the HPD Facebook page.

FRIDAY - Local law enforcement officials are looking for a fugitive male from community corrections in Hays. 

"Need assistance in locating a Violent Offender with a probation violation arrest warrant that fled from officers. 

 The suspect is a 33-year-old, black male, named Jauwon Antonio Allen.  He is 5'07" and around 200 lbs.  He has a goatee and may be wearing a white tank top, grey sweatpants, and have a long sleeve sweatshirt that is blue and red.  If you see Jauwon Allen, do not approach him and call 911."

The male was reported last seen in southeast Hays.

More on the fugitive's description and the search area will be released shortly.

Hays PostARREST&nbsp; UPDATE OCT. 21, 2023: Jauwon Allen was located and arrested by the Hays Police Department Special Situation Response Team, according to a post on the HPD Facebook page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697824977947.jpeg" alt="Jauwon Antonio Allen" />
 <figcaption>Jauwon Antonio Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>FRIDAY - Local law enforcement officials are looking for a fugitive male from community corrections in Hays. In a Facebook post Hays Police said:"Need assistance in locating a Violent Offender with a probation violation arrest warrant that fled from officers. The suspect is a 33-year-old, black male, named Jauwon Antonio Allen. He is 5'07" and around 200 lbs. He has a goatee and may be wearing a white tank top, grey sweatpants, and have a long sleeve sweatshirt that is blue and red. If you see Jauwon Allen, do not approach him and call 911."The male was reported last seen in southeast Hays.More on the fugitive's description and the search area will be released shortly.

UPDATE: Fugitive arrested by Hays Special Situation Response Team

COLBY — Colby Community College announced the Colby Commitment Scholarship, a tuition, fees, and books benefit for students on free and reduced lunches attending high schools in the institution's 14-county service area. Additionally, all students attending Thomas County high schools are eligible for the award.

The College Board of Trustees unanimously approved the scholarship proposal at their Oct. 16 meeting.

"We are so grateful to the Board for supporting this initiative," said President Dr. Seth Carter. "Colby Community College is deeply invested in the success of northwest Kansas, and the Colby Commitment Scholarship further illustrates this by providing access to a high-quality education."

All juniors and seniors at Brewster, Colby, and Golden Plains high schools qualify, as do those attending private and home schools within Thomas County.

Students at high schools in Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace counties may be eligible according to family-adjusted gross income in relation to the Kansas State Department of Education income guidelines for free and reduced meals.

In the midst of increasing higher education costs, Colby Community College has been innovative in making college available for the region.

"The scholarship eliminates barriers to educational attainment and helps move northwest Kansas in a positive direction," Carter added.

The Colby Commitment Scholarship, which is renewed annually, is available for the spring 2024 semester.

For more information, families can contact Brette Hankin at 785-460-5509 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:registrar@colbycc.edu">registrar@colbycc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College announced the Colby Commitment Scholarship, a tuition, fees, and books benefit for students on free and reduced lunches attending high schools in the institution's 14-county service area. Additionally, all students attending Thomas County high schools are eligible for the award.The College Board of Trustees unanimously approved the scholarship proposal at their Oct. 16 meeting."We are so grateful to the Board for supporting this initiative," said President Dr. Seth Carter. "Colby Community College is deeply invested in the success of northwest Kansas, and the Colby Commitment Scholarship further illustrates this by providing access to a high-quality education."All juniors and seniors at Brewster, Colby, and Golden Plains high schools qualify, as do those attending private and home schools within Thomas County.Students at high schools in Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace counties may be eligible according to family-adjusted gross income in relation to the Kansas State Department of Education income guidelines for free and reduced meals.In the midst of increasing higher education costs, Colby Community College has been innovative in making college available for the region."The scholarship eliminates barriers to educational attainment and helps move northwest Kansas in a positive direction," Carter added.The Colby Commitment Scholarship, which is renewed annually, is available for the spring 2024 semester. For more information, families can contact Brette Hankin at 785-460-5509 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:registrar@colbycc.edu">registrar@colbycc.edu</a>.

Colby Community College provides local students with courses at no cost

On October 4, the&nbsp; hosted a truly remarkable event that brought together the community in celebration of agriculture. 

Kids Ag Day, an annual tradition, took place at the scenic Pa's Pumpkin Patch (owned by Jeff and Marla Copper) south of Hays and was attended by over 300 enthusiastic fourth-grade students from Ellis County. 

The event wouldn't have been possible without the invaluable support of the TMP, Victoria, and Hays High FFA Chapters, who lent their helping hands to make this day even more special. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our incredible presenters, sponsors, and volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to make Kids Ag Day a resounding success. Their unwavering commitment to educating young minds about the importance of agriculture is truly commendable.

The atmosphere was brimming with excitement as children immersed themselves in various interactive activities designed to ignite their curiosity about farming practices and food production. From engaging workshops on sustainable farming techniques to hands-on experiences with farm animals, every moment was a chance for these young learners to deepen their understanding of the vital role agriculture plays in our lives. 

As we reflect on this unforgettable day, we are reminded of how crucial it is for future generations to appreciate and value our agricultural heritage. Events like Kids Ag Day not only foster a sense of connection between children and nature but also inspire them to become informed advocates for sustainable farming practices. 

Once again, we express our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in making this event possible - from the organizers behind the scenes to those who generously contributed their time and resources. Your dedication has left such a mark on these young minds and has undoubtedly sown seeds of passion for agriculture that will bear fruit for years to come. 

Together, let us continue nurturing a love for agriculture among our youth and pave the way for a brighter future rooted in sustainable practices.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Stephanie Eckroat County Service Coordinator Ellis County Farm Bureau

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697809294653.jpeg" alt="The Ellis County Farm Bureau Kids Ag Day 2023 was located at&nbsp;Pa's Pumpkin Patch, Hays. Photos courtesy Steph Eckroat" />
 <figcaption>The Ellis County Farm Bureau Kids Ag Day 2023 was located at&nbsp;Pa's Pumpkin Patch, Hays. Photos courtesy Steph Eckroat</figcaption>
 </figure>On October 4, the&nbsp; hosted a truly remarkable event that brought together the community in celebration of agriculture. Kids Ag Day, an annual tradition, took place at the scenic Pa's Pumpkin Patch (owned by Jeff and Marla Copper) south of Hays and was attended by over 300 enthusiastic fourth-grade students from Ellis County. The event wouldn't have been possible without the invaluable support of the TMP, Victoria, and Hays High FFA Chapters, who lent their helping hands to make this day even more special. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our incredible presenters, sponsors, and volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to make Kids Ag Day a resounding success. Their unwavering commitment to educating young minds about the importance of agriculture is truly commendable.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697809225836.jpeg" alt="Kids Ag Day 2023 ( Photo courtesy Stephanie Eckroat)" />
 <figcaption>Kids Ag Day 2023 ( Photo courtesy Stephanie Eckroat)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697809413088.jpeg" alt="Kids Ag Day participants check out the alpacas at Pa's Pumpkin Patch on Oct. 4. Photo by Steph Eckroat" />
 <figcaption>Kids Ag Day participants check out the alpacas at Pa's Pumpkin Patch on Oct. 4. Photo by Steph Eckroat</figcaption>
 </figure>The atmosphere was brimming with excitement as children immersed themselves in various interactive activities designed to ignite their curiosity about farming practices and food production. From engaging workshops on sustainable farming techniques to hands-on experiences with farm animals, every moment was a chance for these young learners to deepen their understanding of the vital role agriculture plays in our lives. As we reflect on this unforgettable day, we are reminded of how crucial it is for future generations to appreciate and value our agricultural heritage. Events like Kids Ag Day not only foster a sense of connection between children and nature but also inspire them to become informed advocates for sustainable farming practices. Once again, we express our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in making this event possible - from the organizers behind the scenes to those who generously contributed their time and resources. Your dedication has left such a mark on these young minds and has undoubtedly sown seeds of passion for agriculture that will bear fruit for years to come. Together, let us continue nurturing a love for agriculture among our youth and pave the way for a brighter future rooted in sustainable practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stephanie Eckroat County Service Coordinator Ellis County Farm Bureau

LETTER: Kids Ag Day brings community together to celebrate agriculture

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Maayan Paz now sleeps with his phone close to his head and "hopes nothing happens."

The 21-year-old freshman at Fort Hays State University is an Israeli native who just moved to Hays from his hometown of Jerusalem a couple of months ago to begin his first semester.&nbsp;

His world changed abruptly on Oct.7 when&nbsp;the Hamas militant group attacked Israel.&nbsp; 

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ec9b83eb-343a-469e-86e1-63fd6668cdbd">Associated Press reported</a>&nbsp;that backed by a barrage of rockets, dozens of Hamas militants broke out of the blockaded Gaza Strip and into nearby Israeli towns, killing more than 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 others in an unprecedented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">surprise early morning attack</a>&nbsp;during a major Jewish holiday.

A stunned Israel said it is now at war with Hamas and launched airstrikes in Gaza, killing at least 3,785 people so far, according to Palestinian estimates.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The U.S. Department of Defense assets in the Red Sea, Iraq and Syria <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08480dc7-e144-4657-90c3-c94ca07c7ab1">responded to missile and drone attacks this week</a>.&nbsp;

Paz is a political science major and participated in a real-world discussion of the Israel-Hamas war with Jay Steinmetz, FHSU assistant professor of political science, during a public forum on Oct. 16 at Forsyth Library.

"It's our 9-11," Paz said, who speaks English fluently.

Steinmetz, who has visited Israel, started the talk with a condensed history of the area's longtime political unrest.

Steinmetz said he and Paz had many conversations about the situation.

"I wanted to emphasize something that you told me many times, which is Hamas claims to speak for the Palestinian people. But the majority of Palestinians in Gaza do not support Hamas. There is a big split between Hamas and the Palestinian people they claim to represent," Steinmetz said.

Paz came to FHSU as a member of the cross-country team to run the 400-meter hurdles.

Thanks to his cell phone and the internet, he's been able to talk daily with his family who are "fairly safe" living in Jerusalem, about 60 miles north of Gaza.&nbsp;

Hays is eight hours behind the time in Jerusalem. His phone is always with him and under his pillow at night in case something happens during daytime hours to his family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697811785012.jpeg" alt="Maayan Paz, a Fort Hays State University student from Israel, points to a map of the Oct. 7 Hamas surprise attacks on the Gaza Strip during a discussion at FHSU Forsyth Library on Oct. 16. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Maayan Paz, a Fort Hays State University student from Israel, points to a map of the Oct. 7 Hamas surprise attacks on the Gaza Strip during a discussion at FHSU Forsyth Library on Oct. 16. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMaayan Paz now sleeps with his phone close to his head and "hopes nothing happens."The 21-year-old freshman at Fort Hays State University is an Israeli native who just moved to Hays from his hometown of Jerusalem a couple of months ago to begin his first semester.&nbsp;His world changed abruptly on Oct.7 when&nbsp;the Hamas militant group attacked Israel.&nbsp; The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ec9b83eb-343a-469e-86e1-63fd6668cdbd">Associated Press reported</a>&nbsp;that backed by a barrage of rockets, dozens of Hamas militants broke out of the blockaded Gaza Strip and into nearby Israeli towns, killing more than 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 others in an unprecedented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">surprise early morning attack</a>&nbsp;during a major Jewish holiday. A stunned Israel said it is now at war with Hamas and launched airstrikes in Gaza, killing at least 3,785 people so far, according to Palestinian estimates.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Defense assets in the Red Sea, Iraq and Syria <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08480dc7-e144-4657-90c3-c94ca07c7ab1">responded to missile and drone attacks this week</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697815876441.jpeg" alt="Maayan Paz, Israeli native, and Jay Steinmetz, FHSU political science assistant professor, answer questions from the audience during a forum about the current Israel-Hamas war. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Maayan Paz, Israeli native, and Jay Steinmetz, FHSU political science assistant professor, answer questions from the audience during a forum about the current Israel-Hamas war. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Paz is a political science major and participated in a real-world discussion of the Israel-Hamas war with Jay Steinmetz, FHSU assistant professor of political science, during a public forum on Oct. 16 at Forsyth Library."It's our 9-11," Paz said, who speaks English fluently.Steinmetz, who has visited Israel, started the talk with a condensed history of the area's longtime political unrest.Steinmetz said he and Paz had many conversations about the situation."I wanted to emphasize something that you told me many times, which is Hamas claims to speak for the Palestinian people. But the majority of Palestinians in Gaza do not support Hamas. There is a big split between Hamas and the Palestinian people they claim to represent," Steinmetz said.Paz came to FHSU as a member of the cross-country team to run the 400-meter hurdles.Thanks to his cell phone and the internet, he's been able to talk daily with his family who are "fairly safe" living in Jerusalem, about 60 miles north of Gaza.&nbsp;Hays is eight hours behind the time in Jerusalem. His phone is always with him and under his pillow at night in case something happens during daytime hours to his family.He's worried about them. "It's a very difficult time to concentrate," Paz said.His parents are teachers, who are now working remotely, staying out of school buildings which might become bombing targets. The youngest of his five siblings are attending classes over the internet.An older sister, who was working with special needs students, has had to stop her job for now."This has been a very difficult time for me. [Sports] practice, talking with my teammates and with my friends has made me feel better," Paz said.Paz told the crowd, comprised of students, faculty and Hays residents, that he, and almost everyone he knows in Israel, knows someone who was killed by Hamas.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697820333072.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Maayan Paz" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Maayan Paz</figcaption>
 </figure>His best friend Elad Sasson, a former basketball teammate and a first lieutenant in the Israeli military, was killed in the first few days of fighting at the front."I heard it on the news. I don't know how or where he was killed," Paz said.Military service is mandatory for young Israelis, both men and women. Paz completed his time and is now pursuing a college degree. Many of his friends are still in the army.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rNLrnm0rhm4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"All Hamas terror attacks, all terror attacks actually, are caused by simple, very clear racism and hate," Paz said.&nbsp;"I would say that racism is not only a problem in the extremists in our world. Racism is very much present in our lives. Maybe it's directed to us. Maybe we direct it towards others.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said the attacks show what racism can cause.&nbsp;"I would just ask you guys to share this story, share how positive thinking and good deeds can benefit the world, and to what world hatred can lead us," Paz concluded.Steinmetz said current events may be a turning event in the Middle East."My fear here is that we're going to see more of this in the future," Steinmetz said, "that this is the beginning of a new strategic turn in the conflict with regards to Hamas."The event was sponsored by Pi Sigma Alpha,&nbsp;the national honor society of political science.&nbsp;