TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including one in northwest Kansas. 

The letting took place Sept. 20, 2023, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

In Logan County on&nbsp;Highway U.S. 83, the bridge over Smoky Hill River located 6.8 miles north of the Scott/Logan County line is set&nbsp; for repair. The project work will be done by L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, at a cost of&nbsp; $260,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691661541522.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including one in northwest Kansas. The letting took place Sept. 20, 2023, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.Among the projects is:In Logan County on&nbsp;Highway U.S. 83, the bridge over Smoky Hill River located 6.8 miles north of the Scott/Logan County line is set&nbsp; for repair. The project work will be done by L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, at a cost of&nbsp; $260,000.

Bridge repair in Logan County part of KDOT-approved September bids

The issue of foreign investment and land purchases in Kansas is once again in the news. 

Last week, Attorney General Kris Kobach called on the Kansas Legislature to restrict the ability of foreign individuals and corporations to purchase or lease large parcels of land in Kansas. Kobach warned that failure to address this issue posed a threat to national security and the food supply chain.

This issue is not new to Kansas, nor to other states. Last year, the Kansas Legislature considered, but did not act on, multiple bills that contained language limiting foreign control of Kansas land, joining more than 30 other states that considered similar legislation. This phenomenon raises significant questions about property rights, national security, and the real estate market.

A number of factors are driving the growing interest among state governments in regulating foreign investment and land ownership.

One of the primary reasons cited in support of these restrictions is national security. Some government officials have expressed concerns that allowing foreign citizens and corporations to buy large parcels of land gives them an undue influence over our politics and economy.

Geopolitical tensions between China and the United States have also certainly played a role in the recent implementation of land purchase and lease restrictions. 

For example, proponents of these policies argue that real estate holdings provide a strategic footprint in a country or state, which may pose a national security threat. This argument often involves concerns over potential spying. These heightened political disputes, including the Chinese balloon incident earlier this year, have led to limiting Chinese investment in the name of protecting national interest.

Another factor contributing to support for these restrictions is worry over how foreign investment will impact local property markets.

Foreign investors have the ability to invest heavily in real estate, driving up property prices. This could lead to a scarcity of affordable land for local residents. Kobach echoed these concerns arguing that farmers would have to compete in local markets where foreign investment has distorted land value.

While restricting land purchases by foreign interests may address concerns related to national security and rising property prices, it also raises important questions about property rights and fairness.

The American Civil Liberties Union has already promised to fight state restrictions on the ability of foreign nationals living and working in the states to purchase land. They have argued that these bills are a discriminatory overreach by state governments.

Further, other groups, including those tied to agricultural interests, have cautioned state lawmakers about growing government involvement in the free market.

Opponents of these restrictions also caution that they play into unfounded, xenophobic fears, which divide our already fractured political landscape. This may be particularly true when considered with the fact that Chinese land ownership in Kansas is actually very limited.

Moving forward, Kansas must carefully consider the implications of such restrictions, weighing the potential benefits against the risks they pose to economic growth and property rights.

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD, is an associate professor of political science at Kansas State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375743023.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder, PhD, is an associate professor of political science at Kansas State University. " />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder, PhD, is an associate professor of political science at Kansas State University. </figcaption>
 </figure>The issue of foreign investment and land purchases in Kansas is once again in the news. Last week, Attorney General Kris Kobach called on the Kansas Legislature to restrict the ability of foreign individuals and corporations to purchase or lease large parcels of land in Kansas. Kobach warned that failure to address this issue posed a threat to national security and the food supply chain.This issue is not new to Kansas, nor to other states. Last year, the Kansas Legislature considered, but did not act on, multiple bills that contained language limiting foreign control of Kansas land, joining more than 30 other states that considered similar legislation. This phenomenon raises significant questions about property rights, national security, and the real estate market.A number of factors are driving the growing interest among state governments in regulating foreign investment and land ownership.One of the primary reasons cited in support of these restrictions is national security. Some government officials have expressed concerns that allowing foreign citizens and corporations to buy large parcels of land gives them an undue influence over our politics and economy.Geopolitical tensions between China and the United States have also certainly played a role in the recent implementation of land purchase and lease restrictions. For example, proponents of these policies argue that real estate holdings provide a strategic footprint in a country or state, which may pose a national security threat. This argument often involves concerns over potential spying. These heightened political disputes, including the Chinese balloon incident earlier this year, have led to limiting Chinese investment in the name of protecting national interest.Another factor contributing to support for these restrictions is worry over how foreign investment will impact local property markets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Foreign investors have the ability to invest heavily in real estate, driving up property prices. This could lead to a scarcity of affordable land for local residents. Kobach echoed these concerns arguing that farmers would have to compete in local markets where foreign investment has distorted land value.While restricting land purchases by foreign interests may address concerns related to national security and rising property prices, it also raises important questions about property rights and fairness.The American Civil Liberties Union has already promised to fight state restrictions on the ability of foreign nationals living and working in the states to purchase land. They have argued that these bills are a discriminatory overreach by state governments.Further, other groups, including those tied to agricultural interests, have cautioned state lawmakers about growing government involvement in the free market.Opponents of these restrictions also caution that they play into unfounded, xenophobic fears, which divide our already fractured political landscape. This may be particularly true when considered with the fact that Chinese land ownership in Kansas is actually very limited.Moving forward, Kansas must carefully consider the implications of such restrictions, weighing the potential benefits against the risks they pose to economic growth and property rights.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD, is an associate professor of political science at Kansas State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Foreign investment and land control in Kansas

<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/2023/10/1696628985134.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

Area freshman leaders at K-State selected for Quest Freshman Honorary 

The family of Evelyn Engel has made a financial contribution to the Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas program operated through Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays.

 This donation will be used to increase awareness and access to the program in Logan County, where Evelyn was a resident for 70 years. 

As everyone is aware, travel costs have increased, and this will allow staff to offer face-to-face service to those residents in Logan County who are not able to travel long distances. 

Additional services will be offered as well, such as completion of prescription assistance applications to reduce out of pocket costs for more expensive prescription drugs. Prescription assistance can be offered in the way of Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs), which are created by pharmaceutical companies to provide free or discounted medicines to people who are unable to afford them. 

Evelyn benefitted from such a program and her family would like to pay it forward to other beneficiaries who could benefit from these programs. 

Phone and videoconference options will be offered to any individuals not able to meet face-to-face. 

Evelyn’s son, James Engel, stated, “Prescription costs became a major concern for my mother, and it was a relief to discover that programs existed to alleviate her financial burden. In honor of my mother, we are partnering with Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging to educate Logan County seniors about prescription assistance programs and assist with completion of related paperwork.” 

Agency director Michelle Morgan said, “We are excited about expanding and growing Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas in Logan County. The generosity of Evelyn’s family helps us to assist more older Kansans in the Logan County area. Many seniors must choose between purchasing food or medications. By providing both awareness and application assistance to lower prescription costs, this donation will help beneficiaries to afford both necessities. We are appreciative of the Engel family’s generous support.”

Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging (NWKAAA) is part of a national network of agencies created in 1973 by the Older Americans Act. It is a private, non-profit organization with the responsibility of administering Older Americans Act programs in the 18 counties of northwest Kansas. Designated as the single point of entry, the NWKAAA serves as the unbiased, trusted source for older Americans and their caregivers. Whether it is information on available options, in-home services, nutrition services or insurance counseling a senior only needs to make a call to the local Area Agency on Aging office to connect them with the resources needed to help them remain independent in their homes and communities. Additionally, as a grassroots organization, advocacy for senior services is a high priority of the Area Agency on Aging. For more information, contact the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-432-7422 or 785-628-8204.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696429003815.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;NWKAAAThe family of Evelyn Engel has made a financial contribution to the Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas program operated through Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays. This donation will be used to increase awareness and access to the program in Logan County, where Evelyn was a resident for 70 years. As everyone is aware, travel costs have increased, and this will allow staff to offer face-to-face service to those residents in Logan County who are not able to travel long distances. Additional services will be offered as well, such as completion of prescription assistance applications to reduce out of pocket costs for more expensive prescription drugs. Prescription assistance can be offered in the way of Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs), which are created by pharmaceutical companies to provide free or discounted medicines to people who are unable to afford them. Evelyn benefitted from such a program and her family would like to pay it forward to other beneficiaries who could benefit from these programs. Phone and videoconference options will be offered to any individuals not able to meet face-to-face. Evelyn’s son, James Engel, stated, “Prescription costs became a major concern for my mother, and it was a relief to discover that programs existed to alleviate her financial burden. In honor of my mother, we are partnering with Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging to educate Logan County seniors about prescription assistance programs and assist with completion of related paperwork.” Agency director Michelle Morgan said, “We are excited about expanding and growing Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas in Logan County. The generosity of Evelyn’s family helps us to assist more older Kansans in the Logan County area. Many seniors must choose between purchasing food or medications. By providing both awareness and application assistance to lower prescription costs, this donation will help beneficiaries to afford both necessities. We are appreciative of the Engel family’s generous support.” Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging (NWKAAA) is part of a national network of agencies created in 1973 by the Older Americans Act. It is a private, non-profit organization with the responsibility of administering Older Americans Act programs in the 18 counties of northwest Kansas. Designated as the single point of entry, the NWKAAA serves as the unbiased, trusted source for older Americans and their caregivers. Whether it is information on available options, in-home services, nutrition services or insurance counseling a senior only needs to make a call to the local Area Agency on Aging office to connect them with the resources needed to help them remain independent in their homes and communities. Additionally, as a grassroots organization, advocacy for senior services is a high priority of the Area Agency on Aging. For more information, contact the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-432-7422 or 785-628-8204.&nbsp;

Memorial contribution for Logan woman to help Logan county seniors

Friday night the Hays High Indians traveled to Dodge City for a key WAC showndown with the Red Demons at Memorial Stadium.

Due to Dodge City school's streaming restrictions&nbsp;Hays Post was not allowed to stream video of the game live. But you can watch the replay here!

You can also access the broadcast <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595466">HERE</a>.

Friday night the Hays High Indians traveled to Dodge City for a key WAC showndown with the Red Demons at Memorial Stadium.Due to Dodge City school's streaming restrictions&nbsp;Hays Post was not allowed to stream video of the game live. But you can watch the replay here!<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595466?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>You can also access the broadcast <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595466">HERE</a>.

🏈🎥 REPLAY: Indians take on Dodge City in WAC matchup

COLBY - Author and former FBI agent William Plunkett is the featured speaker at 7 p.m. on Tue., Oct. 10 as part of Colby Community College's Dr. Max Pickerill Lectures Series. Agent Plunkett's presentation will be in the H.F. Davis Library on campus.

During his career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Plunkett was involved in joint counterintelligence operations with the Central Intelligence Agency and investigated national security matters, including counterintelligence, terrorism, and cyber threats. He was an original member of the Cincinnati FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force formed after the September 11 attacks. Plunkett published articles in multiple magazines and has authored three books on the early FBI.

During his presentation, Plunkett shares tales about the Bureau's infancy, from its formation by President Theodore Roosevelt as The Bureau of Investigation in 1908 to intelligence gathering during World War I and the roundup of communists during The Palmer Raids. In 1921, the Osage Tribal murders were investigated, with the next decade bringing the Kansas City Massacre and resulting laws allowing agents the power to arrest and carry firearms. 

The birth of modern crime-fighting and the evolution of the early FBI is the focus when he talks about the turbulent Public Enemy era of the 1930s and the demise of John Dillinger, Machine Gun Kelly, Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, the Barker/Karpis gang, and others.&nbsp;

A native of upstate New York and a graduate of the State University of New York at Oswego, Plunkett resides in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is an avid golfer and participates in various charitable law enforcement events.

There is no charge to attend the presentation. The Dr. Max Pickerill Lecture Series is funded annually by anonymous donors. For more information, contact Dr. Linda Davis-Stephens at 785-460-5528.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644004912344.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY - Author and former FBI agent William Plunkett is the featured speaker at 7 p.m. on Tue., Oct. 10 as part of Colby Community College's Dr. Max Pickerill Lectures Series. Agent Plunkett's presentation will be in the H.F. Davis Library on campus.During his career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Plunkett was involved in joint counterintelligence operations with the Central Intelligence Agency and investigated national security matters, including counterintelligence, terrorism, and cyber threats. He was an original member of the Cincinnati FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force formed after the September 11 attacks. Plunkett published articles in multiple magazines and has authored three books on the early FBI.During his presentation, Plunkett shares tales about the Bureau's infancy, from its formation by President Theodore Roosevelt as The Bureau of Investigation in 1908 to intelligence gathering during World War I and the roundup of communists during The Palmer Raids. In 1921, the Osage Tribal murders were investigated, with the next decade bringing the Kansas City Massacre and resulting laws allowing agents the power to arrest and carry firearms. The birth of modern crime-fighting and the evolution of the early FBI is the focus when he talks about the turbulent Public Enemy era of the 1930s and the demise of John Dillinger, Machine Gun Kelly, Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, the Barker/Karpis gang, and others.&nbsp;A native of upstate New York and a graduate of the State University of New York at Oswego, Plunkett resides in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is an avid golfer and participates in various charitable law enforcement events.There is no charge to attend the presentation. The Dr. Max Pickerill Lecture Series is funded annually by anonymous donors. For more information, contact Dr. Linda Davis-Stephens at 785-460-5528.

Colby Community College lecture series spotlights early FBI

Enter to win Cash Grab

OLATHE –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed announced Thursday seven Expansion and Modernization highway projects – a total investment of more than $350 million – have been committed to construction as part of the Kelly administration’s bipartisan 10-year, $10 billion Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, also known as IKE.

“When combined with the first two rounds of IKE Construction projects, these investments are part of a $2 billion commitment to make our roads safer, reduce congestion, create good jobs, and deliver more economic opportunities,”&nbsp;said Kelly. “Getting these projects to construction will make getting around Kansas safer and easier and will allow the historic economic growth we’ve seen to benefit the entire state.”

Since the passage of the IKE program in 2020, the Kelly administration has advanced to construction more than $2 billion for highway modernization and expansion projects.

In addition to revealing the latest round of IKE Construction Pipeline projects, Kelly and Reed also announced the final phase of two projects remaining from the T-WORKS program will go to construction in 2026. The two safety improvement projects on K-383 in Norton and Phillips Counties will officially complete the T-WORKS transportation program.

In Norton County, Highway K-383 will be constructed over the Prairie Dog Creek bridge east of Almena for two miles northeast to the Norton/Phillips County line. Cost is $19 million for the two-lane roadway.

In Phillips County,&nbsp;Highway K-383 the two lane roadway will be reconstructed to include the addition of shoulders and hill removal from the Norton/Phillips County line 10 miles northeast to Prairie Dog Creek. Cost is $31 million.

Both projects are scheduled for fiscal year 2026.

“Today’s announcement represents significant investments in the state’s transportation infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Reed. “Leveraging partnerships is a guiding principle of the IKE program.&nbsp;When we listen to citizens and work with communities, we are more assured these investments will provide long-lasting benefits for Kansans.”

Reed encouraged people to take part in a series of eight in-person local consult meetings held across the state and one virtual meeting starting next week. He said input from these bi-annual conversations is an important factor as KDOT determines which projects will be constructed. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaWtlLmtzZG90Lmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTI4LjgzMjk4ODkxIn0.y2fZcmW5pchI5h409Xv-XjITd_49UW1iE4sSGgDn6sA/s/1303161001/br/227008626025-l" target="_blank">ike.ksdot.gov</a>&nbsp;for meeting locations, dates, and times.

The announcement took place in Olathe, where improvements to the I-35/Santa Fe Drive interchange were among the selected projects. The project will address capacity issues on I-35 and reconfigure the interchange at 135th&nbsp;Street, making driving through the area much safer. The project is estimated to result in a 42% reduction in fatal and injury crashes and a 22% reduction in property damage crashes. The city of Olathe has committed funding to help pay for the project.

“Targeted investments in our local infrastructure create good-paying jobs, improve safety, and bring economic development to our communities,”&nbsp;said U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, KS 3rd Congressional District. “That’s why I voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which continues to help our state fund infrastructure projects that have long been overlooked. I thank our state and local officials for their work to improve roadways in Olathe and across Kansas."

The governor highlighted the balance of urban and rural projects included in the pipeline announcements. Construction projects were also announced in Dickinson, Douglas, Finney, Gray, Rice, and Thomas counties.

The Thomas County project will involve Highway K-25 County Road I, north to a four-lane transition south of Interstate 70. The eight-mile project is slated for construction in fiscal year 2026 at a cost of 23 million dollars.&nbsp;

Below is a list of the statewide Construction Pipeline projects as announced. To see more information on these projects and other details, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cua3Nkb3QuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkyOC44MzI5ODg5MSJ9.I9JZMJKLtsStOBwiKD0rekQ4aKrQG-9Zxz2lKPYHTWY/s/1303161001/br/227008626025-l" target="_blank">www.ksdot.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597694281633.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorOLATHE –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed announced Thursday seven Expansion and Modernization highway projects – a total investment of more than $350 million – have been committed to construction as part of the Kelly administration’s bipartisan 10-year, $10 billion Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, also known as IKE.“When combined with the first two rounds of IKE Construction projects, these investments are part of a $2 billion commitment to make our roads safer, reduce congestion, create good jobs, and deliver more economic opportunities,”&nbsp;said Kelly. “Getting these projects to construction will make getting around Kansas safer and easier and will allow the historic economic growth we’ve seen to benefit the entire state.”Since the passage of the IKE program in 2020, the Kelly administration has advanced to construction more than $2 billion for highway modernization and expansion projects.In addition to revealing the latest round of IKE Construction Pipeline projects, Kelly and Reed also announced the final phase of two projects remaining from the T-WORKS program will go to construction in 2026. The two safety improvement projects on K-383 in Norton and Phillips Counties will officially complete the T-WORKS transportation program.In Norton County, Highway K-383 will be constructed over the Prairie Dog Creek bridge east of Almena for two miles northeast to the Norton/Phillips County line. Cost is $19 million for the two-lane roadway.In Phillips County,&nbsp;Highway K-383 the two lane roadway will be reconstructed to include the addition of shoulders and hill removal from the Norton/Phillips County line 10 miles northeast to Prairie Dog Creek. Cost is $31 million.Both projects are scheduled for fiscal year 2026.“Today’s announcement represents significant investments in the state’s transportation infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Reed. “Leveraging partnerships is a guiding principle of the IKE program.&nbsp;When we listen to citizens and work with communities, we are more assured these investments will provide long-lasting benefits for Kansans.”Reed encouraged people to take part in a series of eight in-person local consult meetings held across the state and one virtual meeting starting next week. He said input from these bi-annual conversations is an important factor as KDOT determines which projects will be constructed. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaWtlLmtzZG90Lmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTI4LjgzMjk4ODkxIn0.y2fZcmW5pchI5h409Xv-XjITd_49UW1iE4sSGgDn6sA/s/1303161001/br/227008626025-l" target="_blank">ike.ksdot.gov</a>&nbsp;for meeting locations, dates, and times.The announcement took place in Olathe, where improvements to the I-35/Santa Fe Drive interchange were among the selected projects. The project will address capacity issues on I-35 and reconfigure the interchange at 135th&nbsp;Street, making driving through the area much safer. The project is estimated to result in a 42% reduction in fatal and injury crashes and a 22% reduction in property damage crashes. The city of Olathe has committed funding to help pay for the project.“Targeted investments in our local infrastructure create good-paying jobs, improve safety, and bring economic development to our communities,”&nbsp;said U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, KS 3rd Congressional District. “That’s why I voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which continues to help our state fund infrastructure projects that have long been overlooked. I thank our state and local officials for their work to improve roadways in Olathe and across Kansas."The governor highlighted the balance of urban and rural projects included in the pipeline announcements. Construction projects were also announced in Dickinson, Douglas, Finney, Gray, Rice, and Thomas counties.The Thomas County project will involve Highway K-25 County Road I, north to a four-lane transition south of Interstate 70. The eight-mile project is slated for construction in fiscal year 2026 at a cost of 23 million dollars.&nbsp;Below is a list of the statewide Construction Pipeline projects as announced. To see more information on these projects and other details, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cua3Nkb3QuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkyOC44MzI5ODg5MSJ9.I9JZMJKLtsStOBwiKD0rekQ4aKrQG-9Zxz2lKPYHTWY/s/1303161001/br/227008626025-l" target="_blank">www.ksdot.gov</a>.

Norton, Phillips County projects to complete KDOT program; Thomas County work upcoming

PRATT&nbsp;– Bird hunters – the wait is over! The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Park’s&nbsp;2023 Kansas Upland Game Bird Forecast&nbsp;is now available online and soon in printed form.

Produced annually by KDWP’s Wildlife Division, the&nbsp;2023 Kansas Upland Game Bird Forecast&nbsp;is compiled from data collected during the Department’s spring calling surveys for pheasants (crow counts), quail (whistle counts), and prairie chickens (lek counts), as well as late-summer roadside surveys for pheasants and quail.

Here’s a preview of what hunters will find in this year’s Forecast, available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9VcGxhbmQtQmlyZHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.yu2biwHgxsiSQKYr5h7na8K0W7LL9q5a3d9HACS-GYY/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Upland-Birds</a>&nbsp;and at most KDWP offices.

Kansas continues to support above-average quail populations with spring densities similar to last year, including significant increases in portions of the western regions of the state this spring.

Rains beginning in early summer and continuing through much of the nesting season greatly improved habitat conditions across the state. Given the high spring densities and improved summer conditions, staff expected to see increased production on the brood surveys this year.

Despite these conditions, brood detections were decreased. This may be attributed, in part, by the abundant habitat available during the survey.

Still, Kansas maintains one of the strongest quail populations in the country and, given the abundant access, harvest will again be among the highest in the country. The best opportunities will be in the central regions of the state into the Flint Hills, with quality hunting opportunities scattered throughout the remaining regions.

Intense drought conditions throughout 2022 reduced pheasant populations and the available nesting cover for 2023. Precipitation across most of the primary range this summer greatly improved habitat conditions for chicks. This should have improved the survival of broods that were hatched and could result in some localized improvements where nesting cover was maintained. However, lack of nesting cover and low populations across most of the state prevented any major improvements in densities this summer.

The High Plains region of the western third of the state saw some areas of improvement but remain low after sharp declines in 2022. The North Central Smoky Hills region remained good last year in spite of the drought but dropped to levels similar to the remaining pheasant regions.

The statewide pheasant index is similar to the previous drought cycle. Recovery from these declines will likely take longer as habitat has declined with the declines in CRP enrollment (again this year, acres enrolled in CRP were released to be used for emergency forage for cattle across most of the state). This will likely impact hunter success in 2023 as well as the amount of nesting cover for pheasants again next year. While hunting opportunities still exist where habitat was maintained, hunters will find challenging conditions and should be prepared to work for birds.

Kansas is home to both greater and lesser prairie chickens. Both species require a landscape of predominately native grass and benefit from a few interspersed grain fields. Greater prairie chickens are found primarily in the tallgrass and mixed-grass prairies that occur in the eastern third and northern half of the state. Greater prairie-chickens have recently expanded in numbers and range in the northwestern portion of the state while declining in the eastern regions.

Drought conditions are likely to have impacted production some, but prairie chickens are typically less volatile than other upland bird species and production is harder to estimate.

Hunting opportunities will be best in the Smoky Hills Regions this fall where populations have been stable and public access is more abundant.

The Southwest Prairie Chicken Unit, where lesser prairie chickens are found, will remain closed to hunting this year.

Note, all prairie chicken hunters are required to purchase a $2.50 Prairie Chicken Permit, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbGljZW5zZS5nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.yLoakEXnh6FW_Niv7O5YL3FVokHzb-hxdRa10cdEJm4/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">gooutdoorskansas.com</a>.

Regardless of preferred upland bird species, upland hunters can be as mobile as needed when utilizing Kansas’ combined 1.7 million acres of lands open to public hunting. KDWP’s Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) and iWIHA programs ­– which account for 1.07 million of those acres open to hunting – occur throughout much of the state’s main pheasant range. Through iWIHA, hunters can reserve hunting access on private lands with limited access. For more information on WIHA and iWIHA, or to view maps of lands open to public hunting, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.xlltsNUzetJsOhIFl54Qjt-eeqZiX6eOUL5FqvQIIkI/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com</a>.

Pheasant, quail and greater prairie chicken seasons run through Jan. 31, 2024, in Kansas, so there’s plenty of time to plan. In the meantime, grab a license at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbGljZW5zZS5nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.8ezR42z-hmlzifRTdmqluZ6foMZVP6XIFfKBNaSBFbg/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">gooutdoorskansas.com</a>, through KDWP’s mobile app, GoOutdoors Kansas, or a license vendor nearest you (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy10by1CdXktTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAwMy44MzU0NzMxMSJ9.1EZdWiEhRMyZgEt-ZfONxB2f9IyNkHkBWZd4xfPHbqs/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/License-Permits/Locations-to-Buy-License-Permits</a>).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696428544389.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– Bird hunters – the wait is over! The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Park’s&nbsp;2023 Kansas Upland Game Bird Forecast&nbsp;is now available online and soon in printed form.Produced annually by KDWP’s Wildlife Division, the&nbsp;2023 Kansas Upland Game Bird Forecast&nbsp;is compiled from data collected during the Department’s spring calling surveys for pheasants (crow counts), quail (whistle counts), and prairie chickens (lek counts), as well as late-summer roadside surveys for pheasants and quail.Here’s a preview of what hunters will find in this year’s Forecast, available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9VcGxhbmQtQmlyZHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.yu2biwHgxsiSQKYr5h7na8K0W7LL9q5a3d9HACS-GYY/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Upland-Birds</a>&nbsp;and at most KDWP offices.QuailKansas continues to support above-average quail populations with spring densities similar to last year, including significant increases in portions of the western regions of the state this spring.Rains beginning in early summer and continuing through much of the nesting season greatly improved habitat conditions across the state. Given the high spring densities and improved summer conditions, staff expected to see increased production on the brood surveys this year.Despite these conditions, brood detections were decreased. This may be attributed, in part, by the abundant habitat available during the survey.Still, Kansas maintains one of the strongest quail populations in the country and, given the abundant access, harvest will again be among the highest in the country. The best opportunities will be in the central regions of the state into the Flint Hills, with quality hunting opportunities scattered throughout the remaining regions.PheasantsIntense drought conditions throughout 2022 reduced pheasant populations and the available nesting cover for 2023. Precipitation across most of the primary range this summer greatly improved habitat conditions for chicks. This should have improved the survival of broods that were hatched and could result in some localized improvements where nesting cover was maintained. However, lack of nesting cover and low populations across most of the state prevented any major improvements in densities this summer.The High Plains region of the western third of the state saw some areas of improvement but remain low after sharp declines in 2022. The North Central Smoky Hills region remained good last year in spite of the drought but dropped to levels similar to the remaining pheasant regions.The statewide pheasant index is similar to the previous drought cycle. Recovery from these declines will likely take longer as habitat has declined with the declines in CRP enrollment (again this year, acres enrolled in CRP were released to be used for emergency forage for cattle across most of the state). This will likely impact hunter success in 2023 as well as the amount of nesting cover for pheasants again next year. While hunting opportunities still exist where habitat was maintained, hunters will find challenging conditions and should be prepared to work for birds.Prairie ChickensKansas is home to both greater and lesser prairie chickens. Both species require a landscape of predominately native grass and benefit from a few interspersed grain fields. Greater prairie chickens are found primarily in the tallgrass and mixed-grass prairies that occur in the eastern third and northern half of the state. Greater prairie-chickens have recently expanded in numbers and range in the northwestern portion of the state while declining in the eastern regions.Drought conditions are likely to have impacted production some, but prairie chickens are typically less volatile than other upland bird species and production is harder to estimate.Hunting opportunities will be best in the Smoky Hills Regions this fall where populations have been stable and public access is more abundant.The Southwest Prairie Chicken Unit, where lesser prairie chickens are found, will remain closed to hunting this year.Note, all prairie chicken hunters are required to purchase a $2.50 Prairie Chicken Permit, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbGljZW5zZS5nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.yLoakEXnh6FW_Niv7O5YL3FVokHzb-hxdRa10cdEJm4/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">gooutdoorskansas.com</a>.Regardless of preferred upland bird species, upland hunters can be as mobile as needed when utilizing Kansas’ combined 1.7 million acres of lands open to public hunting. KDWP’s Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) and iWIHA programs ­– which account for 1.07 million of those acres open to hunting – occur throughout much of the state’s main pheasant range. Through iWIHA, hunters can reserve hunting access on private lands with limited access. For more information on WIHA and iWIHA, or to view maps of lands open to public hunting, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.xlltsNUzetJsOhIFl54Qjt-eeqZiX6eOUL5FqvQIIkI/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com</a>.Pheasant, quail and greater prairie chicken seasons run through Jan. 31, 2024, in Kansas, so there’s plenty of time to plan. In the meantime, grab a license at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbGljZW5zZS5nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3MzExIn0.8ezR42z-hmlzifRTdmqluZ6foMZVP6XIFfKBNaSBFbg/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">gooutdoorskansas.com</a>, through KDWP’s mobile app, GoOutdoors Kansas, or a license vendor nearest you (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy10by1CdXktTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAwMy44MzU0NzMxMSJ9.1EZdWiEhRMyZgEt-ZfONxB2f9IyNkHkBWZd4xfPHbqs/s/1303161001/br/227327735798-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/License-Permits/Locations-to-Buy-License-Permits</a>).

2023 Kansas Upland Bird Hunting Forecast now available from KDWP

It is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. 

Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. The abundance of weeds therefore can likely contribute to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. 

In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.

Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.

Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure. Avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.

Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Simply type into your internet browser Alfalfa Insect Management Guide KSU or Wheat Insect Management Guide KSU.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<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>It is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. The abundance of weeds therefore can likely contribute to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure. Avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Simply type into your internet browser Alfalfa Insect Management Guide KSU or Wheat Insect Management Guide KSU.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Grasshoppers abundant in many areas of Kansas

LENORA — Join Nex-Gen as we celebrate 10 years in serving northwest and north central Kansas youth, schools, and communities.

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. funds, promotes, and supports educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on the youths in northwest and central Kansas. We educate students about local career opportunities, as well as offer programs in career development, entrepreneurship, and internship. 

Through these efforts, we have fostered a positive sense of community and encouraged many of our youths to remain in the region or return home to prosper. 

This year marks the organization’s 10th anniversary of operation. That is a decade of impacting almost thousands of youths, teens, and college students across our service areas with life changing skills and knowledge. This milestone has enabled us to reflect on our past and look forward to the future with optimism. 

Join us on the evening of Saturday, October 21 for the Night with Nex-Generation Gala. 

The event is the perfect opportunity to explore Young AmeriTowne, learn more about Nex-Gen Internships and our other wonderful programs, eat a terrific meal, connect with youth stakeholders, and make a lasting impact through our silent auction. (Lots of great items are already pouring in!) 

RSVPs are needed by September 29 for our meal count, but will be accepted through the day of the event.&nbsp;

If you can't attend, but would like to donate or contribute an item to the silent auction (and for all other inquiries), please contact Nex-Generation Executive Director Jacque Beckman at jbeckman@nexgeneration.org or call 785-567-3222. 

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. was established in 2013 as a charitable, non-profit organization designed to fund, promote, and support educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on youth. Our vision is to be the premier youth engagement organization, working with all youth and partners to advance and sustain rural economies, taking students from the classroom to a career. 

We serve the following counties in northwest/north central Kansas: Barton, Cheyenne, Cloud, Decatur, Ellis, Ellsworth, Gove, Graham, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Mitchell, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Phillips, Rawlins, Republic, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695918587784.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLENORA — Join Nex-Gen as we celebrate 10 years in serving northwest and north central Kansas youth, schools, and communities.Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. funds, promotes, and supports educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on the youths in northwest and central Kansas. We educate students about local career opportunities, as well as offer programs in career development, entrepreneurship, and internship. Through these efforts, we have fostered a positive sense of community and encouraged many of our youths to remain in the region or return home to prosper. This year marks the organization’s 10th anniversary of operation. That is a decade of impacting almost thousands of youths, teens, and college students across our service areas with life changing skills and knowledge. This milestone has enabled us to reflect on our past and look forward to the future with optimism. Join us on the evening of Saturday, October 21 for the Night with Nex-Generation Gala. The event is the perfect opportunity to explore Young AmeriTowne, learn more about Nex-Gen Internships and our other wonderful programs, eat a terrific meal, connect with youth stakeholders, and make a lasting impact through our silent auction. (Lots of great items are already pouring in!) RSVPs are needed by September 29 for our meal count, but will be accepted through the day of the event.&nbsp;If you can't attend, but would like to donate or contribute an item to the silent auction (and for all other inquiries), please contact Nex-Generation Executive Director Jacque Beckman at jbeckman@nexgeneration.org or call 785-567-3222. Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. was established in 2013 as a charitable, non-profit organization designed to fund, promote, and support educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on youth. Our vision is to be the premier youth engagement organization, working with all youth and partners to advance and sustain rural economies, taking students from the classroom to a career. We serve the following counties in northwest/north central Kansas: Barton, Cheyenne, Cloud, Decatur, Ellis, Ellsworth, Gove, Graham, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Mitchell, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Phillips, Rawlins, Republic, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace.&nbsp;

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth marks 10th year with Gala Night

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696628949670.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>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with small game coordinator at Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kent Fricke, about the decision to cancel fall turkey hunting season in Kansas.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W4KBYcSHtVo?si=VbaOHkwfjpLKQDE1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with small game coordinator at Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kent Fricke, about the decision to cancel fall turkey hunting season in Kansas.

Forward Ever: KDWP's Kent Fricke discusses canceling turkey hunting season

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. 

These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact.  Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. 

Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMDYuODM3MTkxNjEifQ.OdvbGubUKC6oxAlSqoUyyYKraGHgCFP78mBo7luLzUg/s/1305913542/br/227573422886-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

• Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte County&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Fossil Lake, Russell County&nbsp;&nbsp; • Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County • Lake Afton, Sedgwick County&nbsp; •&nbsp;Lovewell Lake, Jewell County • South Lake (Overland Park), Johnson County &nbsp;&nbsp;

• Amesbury Lake, Johnson County (Added October 6) •&nbsp;Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County • Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County &nbsp;&nbsp; • Winfield City Lake, Cowley County (Added October 6)&nbsp;

• Warnock Lake, Atchison County (Lifted October 6)&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHE TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact.  Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMDYuODM3MTkxNjEifQ.OdvbGubUKC6oxAlSqoUyyYKraGHgCFP78mBo7luLzUg/s/1305913542/br/227573422886-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.WARNING:• Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte County&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Fossil Lake, Russell County&nbsp;&nbsp; • Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County • Lake Afton, Sedgwick County&nbsp; •&nbsp;Lovewell Lake, Jewell County • South Lake (Overland Park), Johnson County &nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH:• Amesbury Lake, Johnson County (Added October 6) •&nbsp;Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County • Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County &nbsp;&nbsp; • Winfield City Lake, Cowley County (Added October 6)&nbsp; LIFTED:&nbsp;• Warnock Lake, Atchison County (Lifted October 6)&nbsp; &nbsp;

Blue-green algae warning continues for Fossil Lake in Russell

Phillipsburg (2-3,
2-2 MCL) at TMP-Marian (3-2, 3-1 MCL) Friday, Oct. 6 -
7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis
Field Radio: KHAZ
(99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Monarchs
Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595457">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian
Monarchs return home Friday night for a key MCL and 2A district showdown
against the Phillipsburg Panthers.

The Monarchs are
looking to bounce back from their second straight loss and are 3-2, 3-1 in the
MCL 0-1 in 2A district eight play.

Phillipsburg also
enters the contest losers of two straight and are 2-3 overall, 2-2 MCL and 0-2
in 2A district 8.

Kickoff is set
for 7 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. Live coverage includes The Monarchs
Sports Network and radio.

Friday’s meeting
is the 30th all-time meeting between TMP and Phillipsburg with the
Monarchs leading the series 15-14 but Phillipsburg has won 12 straight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Phillipsburg (2-3,
2-2 MCL) at TMP-Marian (3-2, 3-1 MCL) Friday, Oct. 6 -
7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis
Field Radio: KHAZ
(99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Monarchs
Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595457">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The TMP-Marian
Monarchs return home Friday night for a key MCL and 2A district showdown
against the Phillipsburg Panthers.The Monarchs are
looking to bounce back from their second straight loss and are 3-2, 3-1 in the
MCL 0-1 in 2A district eight play.Phillipsburg also
enters the contest losers of two straight and are 2-3 overall, 2-2 MCL and 0-2
in 2A district 8.Kickoff is set
for 7 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. Live coverage includes The Monarchs
Sports Network and radio.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595457?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>Friday’s meeting
is the 30th all-time meeting between TMP and Phillipsburg with the
Monarchs leading the series 15-14 but Phillipsburg has won 12 straight.

🏈🎥 TMP returns home for district showdown with Phillipsburg

Dodge City (2-3, 0-2 WAC) at Hays High (3-2, 1-1 WAC)
 Friday, Oct. 6 - 7 p.m.
Dodge City, Kan. – Memorial Stadium
 Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

</a>

The Hays High Indians are on the road Friday night for a
Western Athletic Conference showdown with the Dodge City Red Demons.

The Indians rebounded last week from two straight losses with
a win over Ulyssess while the Red Demons have two straight and three of their
last four games.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City. Friday’s
live coverage will be available only on 96.9 KFIX.

Due to Dodge City school’s streaming restrictions the Hays
High Sports Network will not be able to stream Friday night’s game live but a replay
of the game will be available Saturday.

This is the 79th
meeting between Hays and Dodge City. The Red Demons hold a 51-26-1 advantage in
the series…even after Hays has won the last three games. This is the second
most played series for Hays High behind the now 86 games with Great Bend and
ahead of the 63 played against Garden City. 

The two played a
pair of games in 1932 and 1933…Dodge City won both. According to our Hays High
records the two didn’t play again until 1944…Dodge City has that the two played
in 1940 and 1941. The two however agree that the series resumed in 1944 through
1973…taking a three year break from 1974 through 1976…then playing every year
since 1977. 

Dodge City long
dominated this series winning 29 of 32 from 1965 through 1989. In the remaining
46 games Hays High actually has a one game edge at 23-22-1. The most continues
success the Indians have against Dodge City was from 1999 through 2004 when
Hays won six in a row…it is just one of two stretches that Hays has won four or
more straight games against Dodge City…the other from 2011 through 2014. Hays
can make that a third occurrence tonight as the Indians have won three in a row
against the Red Demons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dodge City (2-3, 0-2 WAC) at Hays High (3-2, 1-1 WAC)
 Friday, Oct. 6 - 7 p.m.
Dodge City, Kan. – Memorial Stadium
 Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

</a>The Hays High Indians are on the road Friday night for a
Western Athletic Conference showdown with the Dodge City Red Demons.The Indians rebounded last week from two straight losses with
a win over Ulyssess while the Red Demons have two straight and three of their
last four games.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City. Friday’s
live coverage will be available only on 96.9 KFIX.Due to Dodge City school’s streaming restrictions the Hays
High Sports Network will not be able to stream Friday night’s game live but a replay
of the game will be available Saturday.This is the 79th
meeting between Hays and Dodge City. The Red Demons hold a 51-26-1 advantage in
the series…even after Hays has won the last three games. This is the second
most played series for Hays High behind the now 86 games with Great Bend and
ahead of the 63 played against Garden City. The two played a
pair of games in 1932 and 1933…Dodge City won both. According to our Hays High
records the two didn’t play again until 1944…Dodge City has that the two played
in 1940 and 1941. The two however agree that the series resumed in 1944 through
1973…taking a three year break from 1974 through 1976…then playing every year
since 1977. Dodge City long
dominated this series winning 29 of 32 from 1965 through 1989. In the remaining
46 games Hays High actually has a one game edge at 23-22-1. The most continues
success the Indians have against Dodge City was from 1999 through 2004 when
Hays won six in a row…it is just one of two stretches that Hays has won four or
more straight games against Dodge City…the other from 2011 through 2014. Hays
can make that a third occurrence tonight as the Indians have won three in a row
against the Red Demons.

🏈🎧 Indians travel to Dodge City in WAC showdown

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The Nov. 7 general election ballot may be a relatively light one across most of Kansas in a non-presidential election year. But an important issue will be decided for USD 395 and La Crosse residents. Bill Keeley, superintendent of La Crosse schools, said district residents will vote on a $10.975 million bond question, and residents within La Crosse city limits will also vote on a proposed one percent city sales tax to help fund the bond.

"The school board has whittled it down to a new elementary school with a gym," he said. "The gym is mandated for a PE classroom by the state, but it would also double as a secondary auxiliary gym for practices."

Four years ago, a facility committee was formed to discuss the needs of the district. Original numbers indicated $15-16 million dollars would address those needs. Then COVID-19 hit and that figure surged to more than $20 million. After a study of the district, financial consultants advised the board a bond needed to be more affordable, around $10-11 million, to feasibly pass a vote. 

"They cut more than half of the facilities off the original scope of the project and got it down to just our two priority needs, which is a new elementary school," Keeley said. "Our old elementary school is coming up on 100 years old."

The new elementary school would be constructed on the north side of the existing middle and high school. The bond would also include a connection corridor from the technical buildings to the school, as well as renovations to increase safety at the school, including the addition of storm shelters.

"We'll have one campus for all students," said Keeley. "Right now, we bus our elementary students over to the high school cafeteria for lunch because we don't have a cafeteria at the elementary school. That's obviously not very efficient. We lose out on class time and it's costly because we have to pay for that service."

A second gym would alleviate crowded practice schedules that are not conducive to learning. The new elementary school would include a new playground and preschool classroom. Mostly, the new facility would give the district more space.

"We still have an elementary building that's 100 years old that's falling down, that's not ADA compliant," Keeley said. "We have reading groups meeting in the hallways, meeting in the stairwells, and people walking by during the reading intervention time because we're out of space."

The bond would be paid over 20 years. If approved, the school district would increase taxes 19.75 mills to pay for the project. If the one percent sales tax is also approved, that increase would drop to 15.74 mills. On a $100,000 home, that amounts to $18.93 in additional taxes each month without the one percent sales tax, and $15.08 a month with the additional sales tax.

The bond and sales tax question will be decided in the Nov. 7 general election. Early voting will begin Oct. 18 at the Rush County Courthouse.

<a href="https://www.usd395facilities.com/">CLICK HERE</a> to read more information about the bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696427697584.png" alt="USD 395 La Crosse is seeking a $10.975 million bond for the construction of a new elementary school and other projects. District voters will decide the issue in the Nov. 7 general election." />
 <figcaption>USD 395 La Crosse is seeking a $10.975 million bond for the construction of a new elementary school and other projects. District voters will decide the issue in the Nov. 7 general election.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Nov. 7 general election ballot may be a relatively light one across most of Kansas in a non-presidential election year. But an important issue will be decided for USD 395 and La Crosse residents. Bill Keeley, superintendent of La Crosse schools, said district residents will vote on a $10.975 million bond question, and residents within La Crosse city limits will also vote on a proposed one percent city sales tax to help fund the bond."The school board has whittled it down to a new elementary school with a gym," he said. "The gym is mandated for a PE classroom by the state, but it would also double as a secondary auxiliary gym for practices."Four years ago, a facility committee was formed to discuss the needs of the district. Original numbers indicated $15-16 million dollars would address those needs. Then COVID-19 hit and that figure surged to more than $20 million. After a study of the district, financial consultants advised the board a bond needed to be more affordable, around $10-11 million, to feasibly pass a vote. "They cut more than half of the facilities off the original scope of the project and got it down to just our two priority needs, which is a new elementary school," Keeley said. "Our old elementary school is coming up on 100 years old."The new elementary school would be constructed on the north side of the existing middle and high school. The bond would also include a connection corridor from the technical buildings to the school, as well as renovations to increase safety at the school, including the addition of storm shelters.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696427653931.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We'll have one campus for all students," said Keeley. "Right now, we bus our elementary students over to the high school cafeteria for lunch because we don't have a cafeteria at the elementary school. That's obviously not very efficient. We lose out on class time and it's costly because we have to pay for that service."A second gym would alleviate crowded practice schedules that are not conducive to learning. The new elementary school would include a new playground and preschool classroom. Mostly, the new facility would give the district more space."We still have an elementary building that's 100 years old that's falling down, that's not ADA compliant," Keeley said. "We have reading groups meeting in the hallways, meeting in the stairwells, and people walking by during the reading intervention time because we're out of space."The bond would be paid over 20 years. If approved, the school district would increase taxes 19.75 mills to pay for the project. If the one percent sales tax is also approved, that increase would drop to 15.74 mills. On a $100,000 home, that amounts to $18.93 in additional taxes each month without the one percent sales tax, and $15.08 a month with the additional sales tax.The bond and sales tax question will be decided in the Nov. 7 general election. Early voting will begin Oct. 18 at the Rush County Courthouse.<a href="https://www.usd395facilities.com/">CLICK HERE</a> to read more information about the bond.

USD 395, La Crosse voters to decide bond, tax issues in Nov. 7 election

Luray Craftique slated for Oct. 21, rain or shine

On Wednesday, October 18 Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting&nbsp;a free Coyote Trapping and Predator Calling&nbsp;program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:30 p.m. 

The meeting will be held at Hays Agricultural Research Center auditorium, 1232 240th&nbsp;Avenue. &nbsp;

During his program, Ricketts  will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls.&nbsp;

For further information call 785-628-9430. 

If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695669307417.jpeg" alt="Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn Wednesday, October 18 Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting&nbsp;a free Coyote Trapping and Predator Calling&nbsp;program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Hays Agricultural Research Center auditorium, 1232 240th&nbsp;Avenue. &nbsp;During his program, Ricketts will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls.&nbsp;For further information call 785-628-9430. If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend.

Free coyote trapping, predator calling program Oct. 18 in Hays

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Bunker Hill public water supply system located in Russell County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the city of Bunker Hill indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-483-6250 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Consumer-Information-Regarding-a-Disrupt">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621008205705.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Bunker Hill public water supply system located in Russell County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Laboratory testing samples collected from the city of Bunker Hill indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-483-6250 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Consumer-Information-Regarding-a-Disrupt">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

Bunker Hill boil water advisory is rescinded by KDHE

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

"Bad guys only have to be lucky once. You have to be good all the time."

That's the reality of cybersecurity for any business in today's interconnected world.

Being good means being educated about cybersecurity in your business, knowing how to protect your vital information, planning for the worst, and having a recovery plan, said George Schultzel, special agent with the FBI's cyber crime task force in the Kansas City field office.

Schultzel was a keynote speaker at Wednesday's cybersecurity conference presented by the Fort Hays State University Small Business Development Center and the FHSU Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator.

Schultzel and a panel of local experts stressed the importance of education about cybersecurity across an entire company.

Cyber attack objectives fall into three categories — financial gain, intelligence collection and organization impact. In the FBI's experience, the bad actors are working via hacking, crime, insiders, espionage,&nbsp;terrorists or warfare.&nbsp;

Nation-state actors target all facets of U.S. life and property for a variety of different reasons, including in Kansas.

"We have a current case where a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/180d7f9a-a1fe-48d1-b71d-4958cb3f312e">Kansas medical center got hit by ransomware </a>a couple years back.

"We started following our leads. We watched our bad guys launder money back to an account back in Hong Kong. ... As we went through our investigation, turns out it was the North Koreans.&nbsp; And the North Koreans were utilizing that money that they stole from us to fund their nuclear program of weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;

"So, why pay for it [themselves] when they could ransom U.S. citizens for that technology, for that money," he said.

The FBI was able to seize some of the ransom money back for the victims and continues with the investigation today.

Schultzel encouraged the conference participants, employees and owners of local businesses as well as some in southwest Kansas, to be aware of cybersecurity threats and be willing to act before they're carried out.&nbsp;

And that's fairly easy for small businesses to do, said Olga Detrixhe, sales supervisor at Next-Tech, Hays, who was part of the power panel discussion.

"Small businesses are nimble and flexible," she said. "Another huge advantage that small businesses have over a large organization is their ability to pivot and change quickly. Small businesses can make vast improvements quickly in comparison to their larger counterparts."

Schultzel  stressed that business executives should support and fund cybersecurity protection measures.&nbsp;

There are more than 100 active FBI investigations on ransomware variants. Cyber threats are now a priority in the FBI, he said.

"These nation-state actors aren't after you, they're after what you have access to," Schultzel said.

Recommended tips from the group included the use of long passwords of at least 15 characters, multi-factor authentication, software and antivirus updates, secure wi-fi connections and encryption of important data.

You should also keep work thumb drives safe and not easily accessible and destroy external hard drives that are no longer serviceable.&nbsp;

The security measures used at work should also be used with your personal information, said Mark Griffin, FHSU assistant vice president for technology services.&nbsp;

"We here are all prepared for a tornado to hit us," said Dallas Haselhorst, TreeTop Security, Hays. "But a cyber attack is much more likely to happen to our businesses and most of them are completely unprepared."

Haselhorst has a series of free cyber security events upcoming in the community. They are as follows:

Oct. 11 at noon at STEM Harvest in Hays "Cybersecurity Awareness"

Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. at Hays Public Library&nbsp;"Cybersecurity Awareness"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696520718313.jpeg" alt="Michael Aumack, U.S. Small Business Administration; Mark Griffin, Fort Hays State University assistant vice president; Olga Detrixhe, Nex-Tech; Dallas Haselhorst, TreeTop Security; and Jason Zeller FHSU Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator co-director on a panel discussion for the Oct. 3&nbsp; business cybersecurity conference at FHSU. Photos by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Michael Aumack, U.S. Small Business Administration; Mark Griffin, Fort Hays State University assistant vice president; Olga Detrixhe, Nex-Tech; Dallas Haselhorst, TreeTop Security; and Jason Zeller FHSU Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator co-director on a panel discussion for the Oct. 3&nbsp; business cybersecurity conference at FHSU. Photos by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"Bad guys only have to be lucky once. You have to be good all the time."That's the reality of cybersecurity for any business in today's interconnected world.Being good means being educated about cybersecurity in your business, knowing how to protect your vital information, planning for the worst, and having a recovery plan, said George Schultzel, special agent with the FBI's cyber crime task force in the Kansas City field office.Schultzel was a keynote speaker at Wednesday's cybersecurity conference presented by the Fort Hays State University Small Business Development Center and the FHSU Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator.Schultzel and a panel of local experts stressed the importance of education about cybersecurity across an entire company.Cyber attack objectives fall into three categories — financial gain, intelligence collection and organization impact. In the FBI's experience, the bad actors are working via hacking, crime, insiders, espionage,&nbsp;terrorists or warfare.&nbsp;Nation-state actors target all facets of U.S. life and property for a variety of different reasons, including in Kansas."We have a current case where a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/180d7f9a-a1fe-48d1-b71d-4958cb3f312e">Kansas medical center got hit by ransomware </a>a couple years back. "We started following our leads. We watched our bad guys launder money back to an account back in Hong Kong. ... As we went through our investigation, turns out it was the North Koreans.&nbsp; And the North Koreans were utilizing that money that they stole from us to fund their nuclear program of weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;"So, why pay for it [themselves] when they could ransom U.S. citizens for that technology, for that money," he said.The FBI was able to seize some of the ransom money back for the victims and continues with the investigation today.Schultzel encouraged the conference participants, employees and owners of local businesses as well as some in southwest Kansas, to be aware of cybersecurity threats and be willing to act before they're carried out.&nbsp;And that's fairly easy for small businesses to do, said Olga Detrixhe, sales supervisor at Next-Tech, Hays, who was part of the power panel discussion."Small businesses are nimble and flexible," she said. "Another huge advantage that small businesses have over a large organization is their ability to pivot and change quickly. Small businesses can make vast improvements quickly in comparison to their larger counterparts."Schultzel stressed that business executives should support and fund cybersecurity protection measures.&nbsp;There are more than 100 active FBI investigations on ransomware variants. Cyber threats are now a priority in the FBI, he said."These nation-state actors aren't after you, they're after what you have access to," Schultzel said.Recommended tips from the group included the use of long passwords of at least 15 characters, multi-factor authentication, software and antivirus updates, secure wi-fi connections and encryption of important data.You should also keep work thumb drives safe and not easily accessible and destroy external hard drives that are no longer serviceable.&nbsp;The security measures used at work should also be used with your personal information, said Mark Griffin, FHSU assistant vice president for technology services.&nbsp;"We here are all prepared for a tornado to hit us," said Dallas Haselhorst, TreeTop Security, Hays. "But a cyber attack is much more likely to happen to our businesses and most of them are completely unprepared."Haselhorst has a series of free cyber security events upcoming in the community. They are as follows:Oct. 11 at noon at STEM Harvest in Hays "Cybersecurity Awareness"Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. at Hays Public Library&nbsp;"Cybersecurity Awareness"Oct. 20 at noon at STEM Harvest in Hays "Scams, Lies and Bad Guys"Oct. 24 at noon STEM Harvest in Hays "Cybersecurity Awareness"

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