PHILLIPS COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Wednesday in Phillips County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Chevy 1500 driven by&nbsp;Shellito, Braydon S. Shellito, 18, Phillipsburg, was eastbound on U.S. 36 twelve miles east of U.S. 183.

The pickup left the roadway, entered the south ditch, went airborne and struck a culvert and came to rest upright east of the culvert in the ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Shellito to&nbsp;Wesley Medical Center.&nbsp; He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;One juvenile also was present in the vehicle. The juvenile record protected data. The KHP released no additional information.

PHILLIPS COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Wednesday in Phillips County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Chevy 1500 driven by&nbsp;Shellito, Braydon S. Shellito, 18, Phillipsburg, was eastbound on U.S. 36 twelve miles east of U.S. 183.The pickup left the roadway, entered the south ditch, went airborne and struck a culvert and came to rest upright east of the culvert in the ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Shellito to&nbsp;Wesley Medical Center.&nbsp; He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;One juvenile also was present in the vehicle. The juvenile record protected data. The KHP released no additional information.

NW Kansas teen hospitalized after pickup crash

By&nbsp; LAAH TUCKER Special to the Hays Post

NATOMA — Blazing trails with perseverance are the women of the Natoma American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109.

On the Kansas High Plains, a small but mighty group of women continue to hold up the American ideals in supporting the common good for active military, veterans, children, youth and community.

In celebrating Women’s History Month, the Natoma Auxiliary gathered to remember their descendants who carried the torch during wars, conflicts and peace times.

From the Women’s Land Army during WWI through WWII, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, women cried “We Can Do It” in keeping the home fires burning, farms producing, and industries moving while many others served in the Army Air Corp, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and later, in the Air Force.

During the Natoma women’s celebration, the history of Corporal Bonnie Gosser Wyatt, a local WWII Women’s Air Corp veteran, was presented.

Following WWII, Wyatt was assigned to a German orphanage near Frankfurt where 100 children were being cared for.

Across Europe children were malnourished, disabled and ill from diseases. The United States' generosity provided funds for thousands of orphans in hundreds of orphanages across Europe during the reconstruction.

Wyatt’s story is one of many American women, including the Natoma Auxiliary, who are dedicated in serving God and their country.

The Natoma Unit 109 continues in 22 annual projects including the archiving of veterans from the Revolutionary War to the present time at six rural cemeteries in Osborne and Russell Counties, and the Natoma City Cemetery.

On March 25, a local Vietnam Veteran and Lions Club Member, David George, will be remembered during the annual community-wide pancake supper in the Natoma Community Center.

The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary will join the Natoma Lions Club for the event.

For information, contact Shawna Dunlap, American Legion Auxiliary and Lions Club, 785-885-4478.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678741041532.jpeg" alt="Natoma American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 Celebrated Women’s History Month with (L-R) Sharon MacConnell, Marge Kertz, Linda Crawford, Sheri Beisner, Jenjer Murphy, Sonya Robison, and Laah Tucker." />
 <figcaption>Natoma American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 Celebrated Women’s History Month with (L-R) Sharon MacConnell, Marge Kertz, Linda Crawford, Sheri Beisner, Jenjer Murphy, Sonya Robison, and Laah Tucker.</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp; LAAH TUCKER Special to the Hays PostNATOMA — Blazing trails with perseverance are the women of the Natoma American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109.On the Kansas High Plains, a small but mighty group of women continue to hold up the American ideals in supporting the common good for active military, veterans, children, youth and community.In celebrating Women’s History Month, the Natoma Auxiliary gathered to remember their descendants who carried the torch during wars, conflicts and peace times.From the Women’s Land Army during WWI through WWII, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, women cried “We Can Do It” in keeping the home fires burning, farms producing, and industries moving while many others served in the Army Air Corp, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and later, in the Air Force.During the Natoma women’s celebration, the history of Corporal Bonnie Gosser Wyatt, a local WWII Women’s Air Corp veteran, was presented.Following WWII, Wyatt was assigned to a German orphanage near Frankfurt where 100 children were being cared for.Across Europe children were malnourished, disabled and ill from diseases. The United States' generosity provided funds for thousands of orphans in hundreds of orphanages across Europe during the reconstruction.Wyatt’s story is one of many American women, including the Natoma Auxiliary, who are dedicated in serving God and their country.The Natoma Unit 109 continues in 22 annual projects including the archiving of veterans from the Revolutionary War to the present time at six rural cemeteries in Osborne and Russell Counties, and the Natoma City Cemetery.On March 25, a local Vietnam Veteran and Lions Club Member, David George, will be remembered during the annual community-wide pancake supper in the Natoma Community Center.The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary will join the Natoma Lions Club for the event.For information, contact Shawna Dunlap, American Legion Auxiliary and Lions Club, 785-885-4478.

Natoma American Legion Auxiliary celebrates Women's History Month

<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/2023/3/1678908968989.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

TOPEKA — A new website created by the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, in collaboration with industry experts, provides a close-up look at all 140 public-use airports across the state and their impact on the communities they serve. Online dashboards provide the conditions of airport runways, economic impact data, future airport needs and more.

According to the dashboard, the Hutchinson Airport as of 2022 has an economic output of $22,534,223, supports 155 jobs and $6,047,638 in wages. This is an extrapolation from a 2016 study conducted by Burns &amp; McDonnell.

&nbsp;“Every airport serves a unique and important role for their community,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation. “It is this uniqueness that makes credible data on individual airports even more important to local, state and national decision-makers.”

&nbsp;The Division of Aviation worked with aviation industry leaders to publish key airport performance data online. Two new tools on this website offer precise aviation economic impact data for each community as well as current information on the status of airport pavement health used to program long-term airport investments.

The airport pavement health condition of the Hutchinson Airport is consistently below state averages for runways, taxiways, apron and taxilane. There are 13 total recommended projects for the airport on the website from 2023 to 2025.

&nbsp;The website address is:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTUuNzMzOTg4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FpcmthbnNhcy5rc2RvdC5nb3YvQWlyUGVyZkRhc2guaHRtbD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.fMzpxZt6RFPUB6KJto8_WdiN03H6tKRVMg65Si9c8HQ/s/2129667343/br/156206047134-l" target="_blank">https://airkansas.ksdot.gov/AirPerfDash.html</a>

&nbsp;“With this combination of data for every airport, KDOT expects significant improvement in projects that deliver the most positive impact for the community as well as increased capacity to complete projects more efficiently,” Brock said.

&nbsp;The KDOT Aviation website includes information on how communities and airport operators can apply for grants, most notably through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program. For 22 years, KAIP grants have enabled communities to partner with KDOT on 820-plus airport improvement projects totaling nearly $200 million in value. In turn, these Kansas public-use airports support nearly 34,000 jobs and roughly $11 billion of on-airport economic impact within the state.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643373407439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — A new website created by the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, in collaboration with industry experts, provides a close-up look at all 140 public-use airports across the state and their impact on the communities they serve. Online dashboards provide the conditions of airport runways, economic impact data, future airport needs and more.According to the dashboard, the Hutchinson Airport as of 2022 has an economic output of $22,534,223, supports 155 jobs and $6,047,638 in wages. This is an extrapolation from a 2016 study conducted by Burns &amp; McDonnell.&nbsp;“Every airport serves a unique and important role for their community,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation. “It is this uniqueness that makes credible data on individual airports even more important to local, state and national decision-makers.”&nbsp;The Division of Aviation worked with aviation industry leaders to publish key airport performance data online. Two new tools on this website offer precise aviation economic impact data for each community as well as current information on the status of airport pavement health used to program long-term airport investments.The airport pavement health condition of the Hutchinson Airport is consistently below state averages for runways, taxiways, apron and taxilane. There are 13 total recommended projects for the airport on the website from 2023 to 2025.&nbsp;The website address is:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTUuNzMzOTg4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FpcmthbnNhcy5rc2RvdC5nb3YvQWlyUGVyZkRhc2guaHRtbD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.fMzpxZt6RFPUB6KJto8_WdiN03H6tKRVMg65Si9c8HQ/s/2129667343/br/156206047134-l" target="_blank">https://airkansas.ksdot.gov/AirPerfDash.html</a>&nbsp;“With this combination of data for every airport, KDOT expects significant improvement in projects that deliver the most positive impact for the community as well as increased capacity to complete projects more efficiently,” Brock said.&nbsp;The KDOT Aviation website includes information on how communities and airport operators can apply for grants, most notably through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program. For 22 years, KAIP grants have enabled communities to partner with KDOT on 820-plus airport improvement projects totaling nearly $200 million in value. In turn, these Kansas public-use airports support nearly 34,000 jobs and roughly $11 billion of on-airport economic impact within the state.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Website gives airport impact stats, construction needs

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and Creek Side Resort manager Kac' Patterson discuss the growing list of services offered at the RV Park.

<div><iframe title="Creek Side Resort in Hays continues expansion of services, events" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sgeya-13ba2a1-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and Creek Side Resort manager Kac' Patterson discuss the growing list of services offered at the RV Park.

🎙 Post Podcast: Creek Side Resort in Hays continues expansion of services, events

On Tuesday at approximately 9:13 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a grass fire approaching homes located at 500 W. 34th St. in Hays.

The Hays Fire Department responded and found a grass fire had burned around two duplexes and was burning to the west in open lots. 

Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire. 

Tenants and neighbors were assisting with garden hoses around the homes to help extinguish the fire. 

Due to the protective barriers surrounding the homes and the short grass, the fire did not have a chance to damage any homes.

 No injuries from the occupants or first responders were reported. 

The cause of the fire is ruled undetermined but it may have been started by an improperly discarded cigarette.

The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS and Hays Police Department.

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that during these dry times, we must be extra cautious when discarding cigarettes, using outdoor fire features or any other activity that could lead to a fire. 

Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in knowing more of how to protect your home from outdoor fires.

Hays Fire DepartmentOn Tuesday at approximately 9:13 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a grass fire approaching homes located at 500 W. 34th St. in Hays.The Hays Fire Department responded and found a grass fire had burned around two duplexes and was burning to the west in open lots. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire. Tenants and neighbors were assisting with garden hoses around the homes to help extinguish the fire. Due to the protective barriers surrounding the homes and the short grass, the fire did not have a chance to damage any homes.The homes were occupied at the time. No injuries from the occupants or first responders were reported. The cause of the fire is ruled undetermined but it may have been started by an improperly discarded cigarette.The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS and Hays Police Department.The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that during these dry times, we must be extra cautious when discarding cigarettes, using outdoor fire features or any other activity that could lead to a fire. Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in knowing more of how to protect your home from outdoor fires.

Grass fire in Hays quickly extinguished Tuesday 

After a warm, windy Wednesday with a daytime high in the mid-70s, the National Weather Service in Dodge City says to expect a quick change back to wintry conditions.

There is a 20 percent chance of rain in the early morning hours Thursday, increasing to a 50 percent chance of snow Thursday as the temperature nosedives. Cold front will shift winds from the south to the north and the mercury is expected to drop down to 20 by Thursday night.

Wind gusts of up to 55 mph are possible Thursday, the NWS warned, with sustained winds of 32 to 38 mph.

By Thursday night,&nbsp; the skies will clear, with weekend highs around 40 degrees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678900777417.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a warm, windy Wednesday with a daytime high in the mid-70s, the National Weather Service in Dodge City says to expect a quick change back to wintry conditions.There is a 20 percent chance of rain in the early morning hours Thursday, increasing to a 50 percent chance of snow Thursday as the temperature nosedives. Cold front will shift winds from the south to the north and the mercury is expected to drop down to 20 by Thursday night.Wind gusts of up to 55 mph are possible Thursday, the NWS warned, with sustained winds of 32 to 38 mph.By Thursday night,&nbsp; the skies will clear, with weekend highs around 40 degrees.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A very strong cold front will push rapidly south across western Kansas early Thursday morning. Immediately behind the front, we are growing increasingly concerned about a brief window of high wind and blowing dust with gusts perhaps to 60 mph briefly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/TyRrI7VMOi">pic.twitter.com/TyRrI7VMOi</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1635942492515487745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warm, windy Wednesday — then winter makes return

To Gov. Laura Kelly and the Kansas Legislature:


We are proud educators and proud parents, and proud to live in northwestern Kansas.
We know first hand what a thriving public school contributes to our community’s overall
well-being. We also know very well that the ripple effects of a public school gutted to fund
private school ventures would be devastating.


We stand in fervent opposition to SB 83 and its House Substitute. We urge the legislature
to vote against these bills. Should our voices be ignored in the legislature, and if our
Representatives and Senators fail to stand against these bills despite our strongest
condemnation, we strongly support Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto.

We are writing to protect our public schools for the following reasons:


The Senate Republicans' tactic of tying special education funding and teacher salary
increases to such an anti-democratic, pro-segregationist piece of legislation is not only
tiresome, but dangerous. Tying teacher salary increases to this legislation demonstrates
the Kansas Republican Party believes teachers can be bought at the expense of their
students and their professional civic mission. Even more, it is unfathomable that
legislators would dangle SPED support as a bargaining chip that would only, in the long
term, harm SPED services and families.


We condemn the transfer of our taxpayer dollars from the general education fund to
those who choose not to attend public schools; if families wish to send their children
elsewhere, that is their right, but not our responsibility.


Marlene Whitney: USD 270
Plainville School Board member,
board clerk, public school parent

Allison Renk-Jones: nurse, public
school and SPED parent

Matt Whitney: Spanish teacher,
public school parent

Mark Schaukowitch: Rooks County
Democrats Chair, former educator

To Gov. Laura Kelly and the Kansas Legislature:
We are proud educators and proud parents, and proud to live in northwestern Kansas.
We know first hand what a thriving public school contributes to our community’s overall
well-being. We also know very well that the ripple effects of a public school gutted to fund
private school ventures would be devastating.
We stand in fervent opposition to SB 83 and its House Substitute. We urge the legislature
to vote against these bills. Should our voices be ignored in the legislature, and if our
Representatives and Senators fail to stand against these bills despite our strongest
condemnation, we strongly support Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We are writing to protect our public schools for the following reasons:
<ol>
 <li>First and foremost, SB 83 has a disturbing legacy rooted in segregationism, and a
direct and racist response to the Brown v. Board of Education decision.
Segregationists planned to implement a model of “public” schooling that would
enable white parents to choose the school their children would attend, regardless
of income status, by using taxpayer dollars in the form of savings accounts and/or
vouchers. Over the last 70 years, various versions of this model have been
implemented in different states. Each version of this model has produced the same
result: schools segregated by race, gender, and physical ability. We reject school
segregation and embrace diversity in our schools.

							</li><li>SB 83 is rooted in bad economic policy. The concept of “parental choice” was
created not by teachers, but by trickle-down economists who saw public education
as a source of economic competition rather than community partnerships. Even
more, the metrics to decide what constitutes a “good” school are nebulous at best,
and racist and harmful at worst - to say nothing that parents and children are not
mere data points, and so much of the educational experience cannot be quantified
so easily.

							</li><li>Policies that segregate by race and economic status also uniquely harm people
living in rural areas. In this case, SB 83’s impact on rural life will be profoundly
harmful. If parents get a choice of school at all, their choice will be outside their
local school district - and with it, their voice through the democratic process as
espoused by local school districts and school boards. By encouraging parents to
enroll their children in schools outside their district, SB 83 would be taking
necessary tax dollars away from local schools and ending a major source of
employment and revenue in rural areas. With local schools often being one of the
top three employers in rural areas, the loss of a rural school will be economically
catastrophic for small towns across the state.

							</li><li>Even more, if and when public schools in rural areas close as a result of SB 83,
resources for students with disabilities, particularly in rural areas, will be
substantially diminished. If a private school is in the area, the private school may not have the services and equipment necessary to serve a student with disabilities, and that student will be refused an equitable education. SB 83 will exclude rural students with disabilities from a quality education, and denies these young people their rights to a future of full citizenship.

							</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>5. It is simply morally wrong to redirect public, taxpayer dollars away from the
students and schools that serve the public good and towards wealthy Kansas
families who least need the cash. Under the current language, any student would
qualify for such an account, including students who are already attending private
school and whose parents can already afford the tuition. This would amount to a
taxpayer payout to the wealthiest Kansas families, with middle-class and poor
families footing the bill. We do not need to bail out wealthy families while rural
schools languish.
</li>
 </ul>The Senate Republicans' tactic of tying special education funding and teacher salary
increases to such an anti-democratic, pro-segregationist piece of legislation is not only
tiresome, but dangerous. Tying teacher salary increases to this legislation demonstrates
the Kansas Republican Party believes teachers can be bought at the expense of their
students and their professional civic mission. Even more, it is unfathomable that
legislators would dangle SPED support as a bargaining chip that would only, in the long
term, harm SPED services and families.
We condemn the transfer of our taxpayer dollars from the general education fund to
those who choose not to attend public schools; if families wish to send their children
elsewhere, that is their right, but not our responsibility.
Sincerely,
Marlene Whitney: USD 270
Plainville School Board member,
board clerk, public school parent
Allison Renk-Jones: nurse, public
school and SPED parent
Matt Whitney: Spanish teacher,
public school parent
Mark Schaukowitch: Rooks County
Democrats Chair, former educator

LETTER: Opposition to SB 83 in rural NW Kansas

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 12 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 4 and 10.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County was in the moderate-incidence category (see map below). Just 10 counties across the state were in the high-incidence category.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 8,454 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678905651350.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 12 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 4 and 10.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County was in the moderate-incidence category (see map below). Just 10 counties across the state were in the high-incidence category.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,454 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678905622633.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 12 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

Kansas State Research and Extension Golden Prairie District is conducting a survey of 2022 farmland leasing arrangements for each of the counties within our district: Trego, Gove, and Logan.

These surveys are utilized to gain a better understanding of current conditions in our area related to rental arrangements.  Summary reports of the data will be available to all those who participate and will be shared as a general reference when requested by the public. The results will only be used in Golden Prairie District programming, with all individual responses kept strictly confidential.

If you would like to offer your leasing arrangement information to be used in our data, you may find them on our website to complete or stop in at one of our offices to obtain a printed version. 

After completing the survey, please return it to your local Golden Prairie District Office by Friday, March 31st, 2023. After the March 31st deadline, a summary of the collected surveys will be available on our page as well.

Your input is critical to ensure this survey is representative of our counties, and we want to thank you in advance for your participation.

 To view/complete our survey, visit the link below and select the appropriate county's survey. If you are unable to print on your own, please stop by your local Golden Prairie District office; we'd be happy to provide a copy.

Link to surveys: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goldenprairie.k-state.edu%2Flivestock%2Findex-livestock.html%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3MczAVUNRFV3voaQPUNeBP74QEdqhR0AtP-0mIfjTUPLZzEaLAeJOFyYo&amp;h=AT1avZ-CRVrP0ywneFJe2pqwamDtjzY_PIjAMvDLbTBHJa2bElnBtQqdYdb-M2BmjwrVLIjf5vhdvIj5dLZ4CPLwwWz-oVPpOLsp22f8PxBfoiKAClXQMSIc6JMIK7TagkOS&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT0-88yl7jBK5wrAj3a-NuN4LtmORoCIDxbLHZpCIDOphNfd6rzoqMvPdbi26y72f6ACoBX1rLs_r5rRdEvI9Fbn7zWOnvlm7ip30imURIRsixqZ-le0pDyeb_Ev4U8JNKeUCpLLJ5_Qi8ADZ67H1hIVHt1TKx2UW-BLfa9UplBPZWAyDm858yDOP4HXfIQ3wXU6orpMlVKlGNjB0cJyV4K1MuEs" target="_blank">https://www.goldenprairie.k-state.edu/.../index-livestock...</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637121416809.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSREKansas State Research and Extension Golden Prairie District is conducting a survey of 2022 farmland leasing arrangements for each of the counties within our district: Trego, Gove, and Logan.These surveys are utilized to gain a better understanding of current conditions in our area related to rental arrangements. Summary reports of the data will be available to all those who participate and will be shared as a general reference when requested by the public. The results will only be used in Golden Prairie District programming, with all individual responses kept strictly confidential.If you would like to offer your leasing arrangement information to be used in our data, you may find them on our website to complete or stop in at one of our offices to obtain a printed version. After completing the survey, please return it to your local Golden Prairie District Office by Friday, March 31st, 2023. After the March 31st deadline, a summary of the collected surveys will be available on our page as well.Your input is critical to ensure this survey is representative of our counties, and we want to thank you in advance for your participation. To view/complete our survey, visit the link below and select the appropriate county's survey. If you are unable to print on your own, please stop by your local Golden Prairie District office; we'd be happy to provide a copy.Link to surveys: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goldenprairie.k-state.edu%2Flivestock%2Findex-livestock.html%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3MczAVUNRFV3voaQPUNeBP74QEdqhR0AtP-0mIfjTUPLZzEaLAeJOFyYo&amp;h=AT1avZ-CRVrP0ywneFJe2pqwamDtjzY_PIjAMvDLbTBHJa2bElnBtQqdYdb-M2BmjwrVLIjf5vhdvIj5dLZ4CPLwwWz-oVPpOLsp22f8PxBfoiKAClXQMSIc6JMIK7TagkOS&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT0-88yl7jBK5wrAj3a-NuN4LtmORoCIDxbLHZpCIDOphNfd6rzoqMvPdbi26y72f6ACoBX1rLs_r5rRdEvI9Fbn7zWOnvlm7ip30imURIRsixqZ-le0pDyeb_Ev4U8JNKeUCpLLJ5_Qi8ADZ67H1hIVHt1TKx2UW-BLfa9UplBPZWAyDm858yDOP4HXfIQ3wXU6orpMlVKlGNjB0cJyV4K1MuEs" target="_blank">https://www.goldenprairie.k-state.edu/.../index-livestock...</a>

Golden Prairie Extension Dist. conducting farmland leasing survey

The Hays Police Department responded to 87 calls from Feb. 19-23, 2023 according to the HPD Activity Log.

<figure>
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 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 87 calls from Feb. 19-23, 2023 according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
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Hays PD Activity Report, Feb. 19-23, 2023

LOGAN — The Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan, Kansas has named 229 high school seniors from 48 Northwest Kansas schools as winners in its 48th annual scholarship competition. 

In selecting award winners, the Scholarship Committee considered proficiency in verbal and writing skills.  Other important factors are academic records, test scores, and community service in which the student may have participated.

Seven students have won Hansen Leader of Tomorrow scholarships.  These awards are for $10,000 and may be renewable for three additional years.  Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles, which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a letter describing progress towards educational goals.  This year’s winners are:

            Belle Chavey, Concordia H.S.                                    Jaden Huehl, Tipton Catholic H.S.

Mackenzie Hagerman, Hays H.S.                              Harper Johnston, Salina Central H.S.

Hannah Eikenberry, Hays H.S.                                  William Fulkerson, Salina South H.S.

Thirty-Five Hansen Scholar winners were selected.  The stipend of $6,500 was granted for one year and may be renewable for three additional years.  Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles, which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a letter describing progress towards educational goals.  This year’s winners are:

            Gabriel Walter, Clifton-Clyde H.S. 

Eileen Veatch, Hays H.S.

Jensen Brull, TMP-Marian H.S.

Delaney Staab, TMP-Marian H.S.

                                         Chase Bourbon, Ellsworth H.S.

                                              Nya Rippert, Ellsworth H.S.

                                           Davin Coil, Rock Hills H.S.

                                     Rebecca Finney, Beloit H.S.

                                        Abigail Porter, Beloit H.S.

                                       Ariana Armstrong, Beloit H.S.

                                        Sergio Lopez, St. John’s Catholic H.S.

Kaylee Johnson, Sylvan-Lucas Unified H.S. 

            Lilianna Brown, Salina Central H.S.

                                           Adrie Powell, Salina South H.S.

                                      Evan Dickson, Salina South H.S.

                                     JoLee Hurren, Salina South H.S.

Andrew Bretz, Hoxie H.S.

Holly Hagberg, Smith Center H.S.

The Foundation offered seventy scholarships for Hansen Student winners.  These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record.  This year’s winners are:

Molly Gilliland, St. Francis H.S.

                           Lauren Ellenz, Tipton H.S.

Dahn Hanlon, Norton Comm. H.S.

Jaelyn Rumback, Norton Comm. H.S.

Jeff Otter, Norton Comm. H.S.

Bryant Addleman, Decatur Comm. H.S.                    Mike Gradig, Lakeside H.S.

                                      Ross Hutson, Lakeside H.S.

Aydan Dill, Osborne H.S.

                               Dylan Ford, Bennington H.S.

                                         Isaac White, Minneapolis H.S.

                                     Conner Peck, Minneapolis H.S.

                                      Koyer Hauck, Minneapolis H.S.

                                            Sage Srna, Tescott H.S.

                                           Kiersten Morgan, Pike Valley H.S.

Luke Voss, Plainville H.S.

Josiah Slothower, Plainville H.S.

                                          Jace Douglas, Sacred Heart H.S.

                                         Macy Lehman, Sacred Heart H.S.

                                            Connor Myers-Elder, Salina Central H.S.

                                 Sam Cusick, Salina Central H.S.

                                            Charlene Arrieta-Renteria, Salina Central H.S.

                         Chloe Highsmith, Salina Central H.S.

Rebekah Schroeder, TMP-Marian H.S.

                    Titus Shafer, Salina Central H.S.

                         Sophia Harris, Salina Central H.S.

                                   Lauren Harris, Salina South H.S.

                                  Baylee Brin, Salina South H.S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575649739391.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dane G. Hansen FoundationLOGAN — The Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan, Kansas has named 229 high school seniors from 48 Northwest Kansas schools as winners in its 48th annual scholarship competition. In selecting award winners, the Scholarship Committee considered proficiency in verbal and writing skills. Other important factors are academic records, test scores, and community service in which the student may have participated.Seven students have won Hansen Leader of Tomorrow scholarships. These awards are for $10,000 and may be renewable for three additional years. Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles, which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a letter describing progress towards educational goals. This year’s winners are: Belle Chavey, Concordia H.S. Jaden Huehl, Tipton Catholic H.S.Mackenzie Hagerman, Hays H.S. Harper Johnston, Salina Central H.S.Hannah Eikenberry, Hays H.S. William Fulkerson, Salina South H.S.Shelly Chen, Beloit H.S.Thirty-Five Hansen Scholar winners were selected. The stipend of $6,500 was granted for one year and may be renewable for three additional years. Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles, which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a letter describing progress towards educational goals. This year’s winners are: Gabriel Walter, Clifton-Clyde H.S. Rilee Schwarz, Hays H.S.Quinton Shepard, Ellis H.S. Eileen Veatch, Hays H.S.Grayson Walburn, Hays H.S. Jensen Brull, TMP-Marian H.S.Landen Clark, Hays H.S. Delaney Staab, TMP-Marian H.S.Bradyn Dreher, Hays H.S. Chase Bourbon, Ellsworth H.S.Evan Dealy, Hays H.S. Nya Rippert, Ellsworth H.S.Anthony Arial, Hays H.S. Davin Coil, Rock Hills H.S.Chase Summers, Hays H.S. Rebecca Finney, Beloit H.S.Danica Scheve, Hays H.S. Abigail Porter, Beloit H.S.Devlyn Jochum, Hays H.S. Ariana Armstrong, Beloit H.S.Megan Taggart, Hays H.S. Sergio Lopez, St. John’s Catholic H.S.Kaylee Johnson, Sylvan-Lucas Unified H.S. Lilianna Brown, Salina Central H.S.Levi Knoll, Osborne H.S. Adrie Powell, Salina South H.S.Sydney Kraus, Russell H.S. Evan Dickson, Salina South H.S.Lauren Franks, Russell H.S. JoLee Hurren, Salina South H.S.Isabella Berndt, Sacred Heart H.S. Andrew Bretz, Hoxie H.S.Stephanie Silverman, Sacred Heart H.S. Holly Hagberg, Smith Center H.S.Jackson Angell, Salina Central H.S.The Foundation offered seventy scholarships for Hansen Student winners. These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record. This year’s winners are: Molly Gilliland, St. Francis H.S. Joshua Towner, Tipton H.S.Colby Garrison, Clifton-Clyde H.S. Lauren Ellenz, Tipton H.S.Cody Letourneau, Concordia H.S. Dahn Hanlon, Norton Comm. H.S.Katria Kindscher, Concordia H.S. Jaelyn Rumback, Norton Comm. H.S.Emma Holloway, Decatur Comm. H.S. Jeff Otter, Norton Comm. H.S.Bryant Addleman, Decatur Comm. H.S. Mike Gradig, Lakeside H.S.William Crawford, Ellis H.S. Ross Hutson, Lakeside H.S.Noah Bruggeman, Hays H.S. Aydan Dill, Osborne H.S.Cole Schlautman, Hays H.S. Graham Bales, Osborne H.S.Devin Schmidtberger, Hays H.S. Dylan Ford, Bennington H.S.Liam Gatschet, Hays H.S. Isaac White, Minneapolis H.S.Claire Humphrey, Hays H.S. Conner Peck, Minneapolis H.S.Avery Harmoney, Hays H.S. Koyer Hauck, Minneapolis H.S.Cade Becker, Hays H.S. Sage Srna, Tescott H.S.Greg Hughes, Hays H.S. Kiersten Morgan, Pike Valley H.S.Quinton McGuire, Hays H.S. Luke Voss, Plainville H.S.Rylee Burd, Hays H.S. Josiah Slothower, Plainville H.S.Ashton Bickle, Hays H.S. Jace Douglas, Sacred Heart H.S.Harlee Dannar, Hays H.S. Macy Lehman, Sacred Heart H.S.Jordin Myers, Hays H.S. Connor Myers-Elder, Salina Central H.S.Peyton Zimmerman, Hays H.S. Sam Cusick, Salina Central H.S.Ansen Miner, Hays H.S. Charlene Arrieta-Renteria, Salina Central H.S.MyKayla Romme, TMP-Marian H.S. Chloe Highsmith, Salina Central H.S.Rebekah Schroeder, TMP-Marian H.S. Titus Shafer, Salina Central H.S.Mary Greenwood, TMP-Marian H.S. Sophia Harris, Salina Central H.S.Tate Dinkel, TMP-Marian H.S. Lauren Harris, Salina South H.S.Byron Johnson, Ellsworth H.S. Baylee Brin, Salina South H.S.Klayton Bradford, Ellsworth H.S. Jackie Fischer, Salina South H.S.Anna Briggs, Quinter H.S. Rylie Gebhardt, Salina South H.S.Gracie Billips, Hill City H.S. Matthew Redden, SE of Saline H.S.Katelyn Wilson, Oakley H.S. Madison Garrison, SE of Saline H.S.Nicholas Greenwood, St. John’s Catholic H.S. Nakari Morrical-Palmer, SE of Saline H.S.Madison Snyder, Hoxie H.S. Kayla Jaeger, Colby H.S.Harrison Bhend, Goodland H.S. Ashlynn Cramer, Trego Comm. H.S.Darius Morrison, Colby H.S. Chloe Woods, Trego Comm. H.S.For students interested in a Career and Technical Education scholarship, the Foundation offered the following scholarships. These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record. Winners of Career and Technical Education scholarships are:Vivieth Espana, Cheylin H.S. Kaleb Dohm, Wheatland H.S.Javier Yanez, St. Francis H.S. Nathan Vollbracht, Wheatland H.S.Kynnedi Steinbrock, Clifton-Clyde H.S. Juleo-Miguel Galeana, Wheatland H.S.Seth LeClair, Clifton-Clyde H.S. Maggy Smith, Hill City H.S.Halle Benne, Clifton-Clyde H.S. Grace Bieker, Hill City H.S.Rebekah Brown, Concordia H.S. Kaylee Richmeier, Hill City H.S.Teague Morford, Decatur Comm. H.S. Rayleigh Shellito, Hill City H.S.Haley Cranwell, Ellis H.S. Trenton Long, Hill City H.S.Myah McCoy, Ellis H.S. Shelby Wilson, Hill City H.S.Jarret Mader, Ellis H.S. Paige Zadina, Rock Hills H.S.Peyton Unruh, Hays H.S. Aubree Whelchel, Rock Hills H.S.Trinity Gnad, Hays H.S. Troy Duskie, Rock Hills H.S.William Cadoret, Hays H.S. Haley Garst, Rock Hills H.S.Wyatt Grabbe, Hays H.S. Ethan Kenworthy, Rock Hills H.S.Katy Antrim, Hays H.S. Zach Gurka, Rock Hills H.S.Logan Chance, Hays H.S. Savannah Beougher, Oakley H.S.Carson Spray, Hays H.S. Craig Kuhlman, Oakley H.S.Teegan Turnbull, Hays H.S. Jake Moses, Oakley H.S.Kaden Harding, Hays H.S. Sarah Polley, Oakley H.S.Ethan Dreiling, Hays H.S. Selena Johnson, Beloit H.S.Ingrid Coronado, Hays H.S. Haley Channell, Beloit H.S.Shelby Craig, Hays H.S. Wesley Adolph, Beloit H.S.Kastyn Antrim, Hays H.S. Brogan Rothchild, Beloit H.S.Karli Neher, Sonrise Academy / Hays H.S. Dante Perrote, Beloit H.S.Brooklyn Berens, TMP-Marian H.S. Ethan Anderson, Beloit H.S.Taylor Anderson, Victoria H.S. Felicity Clark, St. John’s Catholic H.S.Jarron Schmidt, Victoria H.S. Maggie Eilert, St. John’s Catholic H.S.Jaxon Dinkel, Victoria H.S. Kai Cox, Northern Valley H.S.Lane Schmidtberger, Victoria H.S. Garrett Urban, Norton Comm. H.S.Zachary Maske, Victoria H.S. Ella Carter, Norton Comm. H.S.Preston Havlas, Quinter H.S. Jonathan Nielsen, Norton Comm. H.S.Cashlyn Kvasnicka, Quinter H.S. Clayton Sumner, Norton Comm. H.S.Trevor Kaiser, Quinter H.S. Raylyn Paget, Natoma H.S.Zayne Beckner, Quinter H.S. Ricky Mayberry, Natoma H.S.Jordon Lewis, Osborne H.S. Andrew Haffner, Hoxie H.S.Payton Wherry, Osborne H.S. Dayton Bell, Hoxie H.S.Nicholas Hartsock, Osborne H.S. Jayden Fenner, Hoxie H.S.Bailey Mader, Bennington H.S. Bentley Baehler, Goodland H.S.Trustin Ragland, Minneapolis H.S. Allyson Sheldon, Goodland H.S. Reece Wilson, Minneapolis H.S. Jarek Crow, Goodland H.S.Mallorie Church, Tescott H.S. Tarek Koelsch, Smith Center H.S.Scott Jorgensen, Tescott H.S. Hayden Lehmann, Smith Center H.S.Madison Brackney, Logan H.S. Garrett Wanner, Smith Center H.S.Kylee Uhland, Logan H.S. Alexis Holling, Thunder Ridge H.S.Chelsi Brown, Logan H.S. Dalton Bice, Thunder Ridge H.S.Laramee Chestnut, Logan H.S. Max Loyd, Thunder Ridge H.S.Karson Gottschalk, Logan H.S. Trinity Coomes, Thunder Ridge H.S.Madison Solida, Phillipsburg H.S. Adalia Rego, Smith Center H.S.Jessica Gooder, Phillipsburg H.S. Maleia Powell, Brewster H.S.Walter Jacobs, Phillipsburg H.S. Emma Wright, Colby H.S.Ethan Miller, Phillipsburg H.S. Kimberlyn Escobar, Colby H.S.Seth Vacek, Pike Valley H.S. McHaley Carter, Golden Plains H.S.Gentry Thomas, Republic Co. H.S. Sidney Taylor, Golden Plains H.S.Tristan Allen, Republic Co. H.S. Morgan Durham, Golden Plains H.S.Trinity Hartsock, Republic Co. H.S. Oren Hobbs, Trego Comm. H.S.Kennadi Hobby, Ell-Saline H.S. Tiera Eby Whitaker, Wallace Co. H.S.Addison Copeland, Salina South H.S. Elliana Edwards, Wallace Co. H.S.Averi O’Connor, Salina South H.S. Seferino Juarez, Wallace Co. H.S.Isaac Harper, Salina South H.S.

Northwest Kansas students earn Hansen Scholarships

BUNKER HILL — "The Kansas Legislature," a local live production of Smoky Hills PBS, Bunker Hill, will feature Rep. Christina Haswood, D-Lawrence, District 10, and Rep. Susan Concannon, R-Beloit, District 107, at 7 p.m. Friday.

"The Kansas Legislature" is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The program&nbsp;is hosted by Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post and Eagle Radio.&nbsp;

To find a list of legislators who might be on the show each week, go to&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;for the 2023 season schedule.&nbsp;

Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;

The 2023 Kansas Legislature is made possible by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains" target="_blank">ITC Great Plains</a>&nbsp;and through a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679321952538.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL — "The Kansas Legislature," a local live production of Smoky Hills PBS, Bunker Hill, will feature Rep. Christina Haswood, D-Lawrence, District 10, and Rep. Susan Concannon, R-Beloit, District 107, at 7 p.m. Friday."The Kansas Legislature" is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;The program&nbsp;is hosted by Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post and Eagle Radio.&nbsp;To find a list of legislators who might be on the show each week, go to&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;for the 2023 season schedule.&nbsp; Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;The 2023 Kansas Legislature is made possible by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains" target="_blank">ITC Great Plains</a>&nbsp;and through a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

Reps. Concannon, Haswood on 'The Kansas Legislature' Friday

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Recently I attended the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Fusion Conference, which is a joint event between the Women’s, Programing &amp; Education, and Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers committees, in Jacksonville, Fla. One of my Collegiate Farm Bureau students won the state discussion meet and competed in the national event. In addition to coaching, I was a workshop presenter on the topic of work-life balance, with a former YFR leader from Florida that I am friends with. As I was packing to leave for the event, Marc and I were discussing my planned agenda for the event and I mentioned the workshop with my friend Morgan. Marc got a slightly confused look on his face and asked, “Do I know this Morgan?” That’s what is funny about the relationships we build at these events. Someone I have only known a few years, visit with at an occasional national event, and am friends with on Facebook feels like so much more than just a professional acquaintance. Morgan and I have a connection through our jobs, mutual respect as leaders and a shared understanding of our industry and lifestyle. Our friendship is easy because our lives are very similar. I also caught up with my college advisor from California, who I rarely get to see in person and is probably the most impactful mentor of my life. I visited with a fellow presenter who I have judged with in the past and respect tremendously. The conference organizer is a friend with whom I have a long professional and personal relationship. I am motivated and encouraged by time shared with my “far-away friends.” I come home with an enthusiastic and renewed sense of purpose. Great people are one of the reasons I love attending these conferences. In addition to seeing old friends, I love getting to know new people with interesting backgrounds, listen to the perspectives of speakers and learn what is happening in other places. The information gained through new connections increases my knowledge, challenges my current views and often helps me find new solutions for problems I wrestle with at home. Early in my career, I remember discussing as a board member whether or not to support a staff member’s request to attend a national conference. The board was divided in support of professional development verses funding constraints. The decision eventually came down to the board chair, who chose to approve the request. He told the group, “One of the most valuable things I have done in my career is attend conferences and meetings. I have always come away better and think there is tremendous value in participating.” Coming back better is one of the reasons we step outside our normal zones. I recently read that one of the most accurate predictors of career attainment is continuous learning and skill development. People who never stop growing are better off that people who were rose to top positions early career and maintained that position. There is tremendous value and opportunity that comes when you attend events like conferences, seminars and conventions. Sometimes you have to step away from your normal circle of interaction to find new and interesting things to bring back.&nbsp; If you have the chance to attend a conference or event, especially in a different part of the country, I hope you will embrace the opportunity, find people who make you better and gather lots of ideas that you can bring home to make your world just a little bit better. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Recently I attended the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Fusion Conference, which is a joint event between the Women’s, Programing &amp; Education, and Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers committees, in Jacksonville, Fla. One of my Collegiate Farm Bureau students won the state discussion meet and competed in the national event. In addition to coaching, I was a workshop presenter on the topic of work-life balance, with a former YFR leader from Florida that I am friends with. As I was packing to leave for the event, Marc and I were discussing my planned agenda for the event and I mentioned the workshop with my friend Morgan. Marc got a slightly confused look on his face and asked, “Do I know this Morgan?” That’s what is funny about the relationships we build at these events. Someone I have only known a few years, visit with at an occasional national event, and am friends with on Facebook feels like so much more than just a professional acquaintance. Morgan and I have a connection through our jobs, mutual respect as leaders and a shared understanding of our industry and lifestyle. Our friendship is easy because our lives are very similar. I also caught up with my college advisor from California, who I rarely get to see in person and is probably the most impactful mentor of my life. I visited with a fellow presenter who I have judged with in the past and respect tremendously. The conference organizer is a friend with whom I have a long professional and personal relationship. I am motivated and encouraged by time shared with my “far-away friends.” I come home with an enthusiastic and renewed sense of purpose. Great people are one of the reasons I love attending these conferences. In addition to seeing old friends, I love getting to know new people with interesting backgrounds, listen to the perspectives of speakers and learn what is happening in other places. The information gained through new connections increases my knowledge, challenges my current views and often helps me find new solutions for problems I wrestle with at home. Early in my career, I remember discussing as a board member whether or not to support a staff member’s request to attend a national conference. The board was divided in support of professional development verses funding constraints. The decision eventually came down to the board chair, who chose to approve the request. He told the group, “One of the most valuable things I have done in my career is attend conferences and meetings. I have always come away better and think there is tremendous value in participating.” Coming back better is one of the reasons we step outside our normal zones. I recently read that one of the most accurate predictors of career attainment is continuous learning and skill development. People who never stop growing are better off that people who were rose to top positions early career and maintained that position. There is tremendous value and opportunity that comes when you attend events like conferences, seminars and conventions. Sometimes you have to step away from your normal circle of interaction to find new and interesting things to bring back.&nbsp; If you have the chance to attend a conference or event, especially in a different part of the country, I hope you will embrace the opportunity, find people who make you better and gather lots of ideas that you can bring home to make your world just a little bit better. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Connecting across the country

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678807235673.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>

Tom Krause, a motivational speaker will be giving a presentation titled "You Make A Difference" at the 100th Anniversary Celebration of the Daughters of Isabella Circle #254 in Hays.&nbsp; The celebration will begin at 5:30 pm on Saturday, April 22, at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall, 2350 E. Eighth.&nbsp;&nbsp;This event is open to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Krause is best known for his contributions to the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book series and is author of several other books, one of which is currently under movie production. Krause spent 20 years in the public school system and knows how to reach audiences of all ages with unforgettable presentations.

Tickets for the banquet and presentation are $35 each and can be purchased from Peggy Feltis 785-628-1336, Janet Koerner 785-623-3407, Geri Zerr 785-432-1028, Donnetta Pfeifer 785-628-1094 or Barbara Zimmerman 785-628-8074.

Tickets will be available through April 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678468002582.jpeg" alt="Tom Krause" />
 <figcaption>Tom Krause</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseTom Krause, a motivational speaker will be giving a presentation titled "You Make A Difference" at the 100th Anniversary Celebration of the Daughters of Isabella Circle #254 in Hays.&nbsp; The celebration will begin at 5:30 pm on Saturday, April 22, at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall, 2350 E. Eighth.&nbsp;&nbsp;This event is open to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp; Krause is best known for his contributions to the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book series and is author of several other books, one of which is currently under movie production. Krause spent 20 years in the public school system and knows how to reach audiences of all ages with unforgettable presentations.Tickets for the banquet and presentation are $35 each and can be purchased from Peggy Feltis 785-628-1336, Janet Koerner 785-623-3407, Geri Zerr 785-432-1028, Donnetta Pfeifer 785-628-1094 or Barbara Zimmerman 785-628-8074.Tickets will be available through April 14.

Author, motivational speaker will make Hays appearance

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on March 15, 2023, in the area of Fort Hays State University campus to Walnut St. between 6th St. and 14th St. and Indian Trail to Cumberland Ave. between 22nd St. and 27th St. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615927348562.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Fire Dept.The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on March 15, 2023, in the area of Fort Hays State University campus to Walnut St. between 6th St. and 14th St. and Indian Trail to Cumberland Ave. between 22nd St. and 27th St. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.

Hydrant inspections by Hays Fire Dept. in two areas today

Poets from around the area are invited to submit an original work for the 23rd&nbsp;annual Hays Public Library Poetry Contest. The contest will be held on April 14 at 6 p.m.

Participants, who must be age 16 or older, may enter one original poem. The contest will be held in-person in the Schmidt Community Commons area at the library, and contestants should bring four copies of their poem. They also are encouraged to bring additional poetry to present during the open mic portion of the evening while the judges are deliberating.&nbsp;The first-place winner will receive $75 in Chamber Cheques, and second place will receive $50 in Chamber Cheques.&nbsp;

HPL values the art of the written word and celebrates bringing together the many voices of the Hays community. After the contest, all submitted works of poetry will be published in a literary journal titled&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;to showcase the incredible creativity and hard work of those who entered.

For the second year, the Hays Public Library also will host a regional competition of the Kansas Cowboy Poetry Contest. That event will be on May 19 at 6 p.m. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://2021cowboypoetry.wixsite.com/my-site">https://2021cowboypoetry.wixsite.com/my-site</a>.

HPLPoets from around the area are invited to submit an original work for the 23rd&nbsp;annual Hays Public Library Poetry Contest. The contest will be held on April 14 at 6 p.m.Participants, who must be age 16 or older, may enter one original poem. The contest will be held in-person in the Schmidt Community Commons area at the library, and contestants should bring four copies of their poem. They also are encouraged to bring additional poetry to present during the open mic portion of the evening while the judges are deliberating.&nbsp;The first-place winner will receive $75 in Chamber Cheques, and second place will receive $50 in Chamber Cheques.&nbsp;HPL values the art of the written word and celebrates bringing together the many voices of the Hays community. After the contest, all submitted works of poetry will be published in a literary journal titled&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;to showcase the incredible creativity and hard work of those who entered.For the second year, the Hays Public Library also will host a regional competition of the Kansas Cowboy Poetry Contest. That event will be on May 19 at 6 p.m. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://2021cowboypoetry.wixsite.com/my-site">https://2021cowboypoetry.wixsite.com/my-site</a>.

Hays library seeks submissions for 23rd annual poetry contest

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Fonzie, a giant, gentle, white, fuzzy furball, asks to play, to go outside, and most importantly he can ask for treats.

<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">Fonzie is a 3-year-old golden doodle therapy dog for Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.</a>

He is owned and trained by Jennifer Hecker, Options executive director.

A co-worker gave Fonzie a Fleunt Pet set for Christmas, and over the last several months he has used the set to communicate with Hecker and others at Options.

Fonzie was part of litter of golden doodle puppies who were abandoned in Ellis County. He and his litter mates were taken in by the Humane Society of the High Plains.

Hecker was looking to replace her therapy dog, Sunny, who was getting older and ready for retirement, but she knew she had to find just the right dog for the job.

"Therapy dogs are incredible listeners," she said.&nbsp;

"In my experience working with.a therapy dog, people can say things to an animal they can't say to people," she said. "Animals are safe. They don't judge. They're not going to argue with you. They're not going to tell you that something is your fault or that you did something wrong.&nbsp;

"Animals are like our best furry secret keepers. We can download all of our thoughts and feelings into our pets. When people experience trauma, Fonzie is another tool," Hecker said.

Being able to talk about what happened is the first step for many in healing, she said.

Options also uses Fonzie to model communication skills for high school students who are learning about healthy relationships.

"I have learned a ton about the kind of healthy relationship you have to have to be able o communicate at the level we are starting to be able to communicate with one another," she said of Fonzie. "There's a high level of trust.

"I have to really pay attention," she said. "I really have to watch his body language."&nbsp;

Hecker has been keeping a journal of Fonzie's training. She said she has been surprised about what Fonize has been able to learn and how quickly he has been able to learn.

Fonzie has a soundboard at home and that board is duplicated at the Options office. Hecker can record a word for a button. When Fonzie pushes one of the buttons, the button says the word.

"He can tell us what he wants, but it turns out that he is a very wanty dog," Hecker said.

Fonzie's first word was outside. Hecker has since added treat, want, toy, play and skricthces, which are scratches or petting. 

"My husband and I found ourselves having this very bizarre, existential conversation about what an animal might want to tell a human," she said, "so we could decide what words we were going to record."

Right before the publication of this story, Hecker added the words all done, love you and flingy ball. Flingy ball is a ball that can be thrown with a plastic handheld launcher.

"Any time he needed to go outside, we would model it by pushing the button and saying the word 'outside,' and then going outside, but you stay outside a lot," she said." 'It's hey, it's time to go outside. Would you like to go outside? Let's go outside. Yay, we're outside.' So you sound a little silly."

When Hecker added the words want and toy, he started making up his own words.&nbsp;

Fonzie had hit the treat button several times and been given several treats. Hecker decided he had enough treats and told him no more treats.

"He started pacing around the buttons," Hecker said. "He kind of chuffed at me and stomped his back feet because we still weren't giving him treats. He hit the outside button."

Hecker explained since Fonzie was a puppy, Fonize had been given a treat whenever he came in from going outside and going potty.

"We thought he wants to go outside, but then he gave himself away and ran straight to the treat jar," she said.

In another instance, Fonize was hitting the treat and toy buttons. Heckler thought he was just mad because she wasn't giving him any more treats.&nbsp;

"I noticed that he would hit them and just look at me," she said. "I could see there was some purpose and he was trying to tell me something. I was standing there asking him if he wanted a treat or a toy. ... I was scratching my head trying to figure out what he is trying to tell me."

She went to Fonzie's toy basket and her eyes fell on a red strawberry toy that you can fill with treats.&nbsp;

"I looked at my husband and said 'Surely not," she said."We've never named it, we just filled it up and handed it to him. I reached down and picked it up and he got wiggly and he was almost bouncing up and down. I said 'Is this want you want? Is this the treat toy?'

"I decided to test this. I walked over to the treat jar and he is on my tail, wiggling and slobbering, so ready for this treat toy."

<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/nvh3rHVy-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Options Therapy Dog" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><div><iframe title="Options therapy dog ’Fonzie’ learns to talk" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=zensc-13b4727-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFonzie, a giant, gentle, white, fuzzy furball, asks to play, to go outside, and most importantly he can ask for treats.<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">Fonzie is a 3-year-old golden doodle therapy dog for Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.</a>He is owned and trained by Jennifer Hecker, Options executive director.A co-worker gave Fonzie a Fleunt Pet set for Christmas, and over the last several months he has used the set to communicate with Hecker and others at Options.Fonzie was part of litter of golden doodle puppies who were abandoned in Ellis County. He and his litter mates were taken in by the Humane Society of the High Plains.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678665668381.jpeg" alt="Fonzie, the Options therapy dog, is learning to talk with the help of a pet soundboard, which can be seen at the top of this photo. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fonzie, the Options therapy dog, is learning to talk with the help of a pet soundboard, which can be seen at the top of this photo. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hecker was looking to replace her therapy dog, Sunny, who was getting older and ready for retirement, but she knew she had to find just the right dog for the job."Therapy dogs are incredible listeners," she said.&nbsp;"In my experience working with.a therapy dog, people can say things to an animal they can't say to people," she said. "Animals are safe. They don't judge. They're not going to argue with you. They're not going to tell you that something is your fault or that you did something wrong.&nbsp;"Animals are like our best furry secret keepers. We can download all of our thoughts and feelings into our pets. When people experience trauma, Fonzie is another tool," Hecker said.Being able to talk about what happened is the first step for many in healing, she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678666305337.jpeg" alt="Fonzie pushes a button on his soundboard. The button says a word, such as outside, treat or play. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fonzie pushes a button on his soundboard. The button says a word, such as outside, treat or play. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Options also uses Fonzie to model communication skills for high school students who are learning about healthy relationships."I have learned a ton about the kind of healthy relationship you have to have to be able o communicate at the level we are starting to be able to communicate with one another," she said of Fonzie. "There's a high level of trust."I have to really pay attention," she said. "I really have to watch his body language."&nbsp;Hecker has been keeping a journal of Fonzie's training. She said she has been surprised about what Fonize has been able to learn and how quickly he has been able to learn.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678666390138.jpeg" alt="Jennifer Hecker, Fonzie's owner and handler, presses a word button on his soundboard to ask him if he wants to play. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Hecker, Fonzie's owner and handler, presses a word button on his soundboard to ask him if he wants to play. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Fonzie has a soundboard at home and that board is duplicated at the Options office. Hecker can record a word for a button. When Fonzie pushes one of the buttons, the button says the word."He can tell us what he wants, but it turns out that he is a very wanty dog," Hecker said.Fonzie's first word was outside. Hecker has since added treat, want, toy, play and skricthces, which are scratches or petting. "My husband and I found ourselves having this very bizarre, existential conversation about what an animal might want to tell a human," she said, "so we could decide what words we were going to record."Right before the publication of this story, Hecker added the words all done, love you and flingy ball. Flingy ball is a ball that can be thrown with a plastic handheld launcher.Hecker said she modeled Fonzie's words."Any time he needed to go outside, we would model it by pushing the button and saying the word 'outside,' and then going outside, but you stay outside a lot," she said." 'It's hey, it's time to go outside. Would you like to go outside? Let's go outside. Yay, we're outside.' So you sound a little silly."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678666438654.jpeg" alt="Fonzie plays with his owner and handler Jennifer Hecker at the Options office. Fonzie can use his soundboard to ask to play, go outside or for his ball. Photo by Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>Fonzie plays with his owner and handler Jennifer Hecker at the Options office. Fonzie can use his soundboard to ask to play, go outside or for his ball. Photo by Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure>When Hecker added the words want and toy, he started making up his own words.&nbsp;Fonzie had hit the treat button several times and been given several treats. Hecker decided he had enough treats and told him no more treats."He started pacing around the buttons," Hecker said. "He kind of chuffed at me and stomped his back feet because we still weren't giving him treats. He hit the outside button."Hecker explained since Fonzie was a puppy, Fonize had been given a treat whenever he came in from going outside and going potty."We thought he wants to go outside, but then he gave himself away and ran straight to the treat jar," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678666520338.jpeg" alt="Fonzie with his owner and handler Jennifer Hecker. As a therapy dog, Fonize serves as a sounding board for Options clients and also is there to comfort clients who have experienced trauma. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fonzie with his owner and handler Jennifer Hecker. As a therapy dog, Fonize serves as a sounding board for Options clients and also is there to comfort clients who have experienced trauma. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>In another instance, Fonize was hitting the treat and toy buttons. Heckler thought he was just mad because she wasn't giving him any more treats.&nbsp;"I noticed that he would hit them and just look at me," she said. "I could see there was some purpose and he was trying to tell me something. I was standing there asking him if he wanted a treat or a toy. ... I was scratching my head trying to figure out what he is trying to tell me."She went to Fonzie's toy basket and her eyes fell on a red strawberry toy that you can fill with treats.&nbsp;"I looked at my husband and said 'Surely not," she said."We've never named it, we just filled it up and handed it to him. I reached down and picked it up and he got wiggly and he was almost bouncing up and down. I said 'Is this want you want? Is this the treat toy?'"I decided to test this. I walked over to the treat jar and he is on my tail, wiggling and slobbering, so ready for this treat toy."A little later on, Fonize went to the soundboard and hit want.&nbsp;He kept looking into the corner and hitting want.Hecker looked and found that his treat toy had rolled underneath a piece of furniture. He wanted help getting it out, but they didn't have a button for help yet, she said.Hecker said she hopes to upgrade Fonzie's word board and continue to add more words. The Options staff are keeping a list of other words Fonzie seems to understand including yes, no, park, hugs, come, stay, work and home.Options is a non-profit organization serving domestic and sexual violence survivors across northwest Kansas. Donors can help Options, Fonzie and their mission by going to <a href="https://help4abuse.org/">Options' website</a>, donating by sending a check to or dropping it off in person at the Options office at 2716 Plaza Ave., Hays, KS 67601.

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