A fundamental piece of
American history and society is being left out of Kansas classrooms, Alex Red
Corn told a group of area educators Wednesday morning in the Memorial Union
Ballroom on the Fort Hays State University campus.

Around 100 people gathered
to hear his opening remarks during the Creating Educational Spaces of Belonging
conference.

The education system is
failing to provide “baseline knowledge” of the indigenous peoples within the U.S.,
Red Corn said.

Red Corn, a citizen of the
Osage Nation, is an assistant professor of Education Leadership at Kansas State
University, coordinator of Indigenous Programs and executive director of the
Kansas Association for Native American Education.

“Historically, our systems of
education are actually weaponized against the American Indians,” he said after
a brief introduction. 

“Schools were used as weapons
to assimilate and eradicate American Indian cultures,” he said. “We've all
inherited some of those status quos, and some of those status quos persist, or
some of those problems still persist,” he said.

He challenged the group to be
“agents of change” as they face educational inequalities that persist in the education
system about Native American life, especially in a context outside of historical
stereotypes.

He spoke about the atrocities
committed at boarding schools in Canada, tribal agreements with the U.S.
government and issues of sovereignty.

And the Native American
students in public schools are especially disserviced by not having their history
taught in the classroom at all.

Red Corn asked if assimilation ever stopped for the 90 percent of Native American children
who attend a public school.

“How many of you grew up with
some of the teacher's indigenous language? Have you ever taken a tribal history
class? Tribal governance class?... What do you most students learn about
American Indians? And what have you learned about America?”

He challenged the group to a
pop quiz to demonstrate the lack of basic working knowledge of Native American sovereignty
or status within the U.S.

&nbsp;Red Corn pointed out that everyone in the room knew
the U.S. is made up of 50 states, starting with 13 colonies.

“That's like in the basement
foundational stuff, right?” he said.

But when he asked how many
tribes were located in the U.S., no one knew.

“There are 574 federally
recognized tribes in the U.S.,” he said, pointing out that even the “most educated
people in the state of Kansas typically don’t know this.”

When he asked how many federally
recognized tribes are in Kansas, again, no one knew.

“So how could we, as
graduates of Kansas schools, expect these people to be able to engage with
these populations in these communities if they don’t even know they exist?” he
said.

“They're more than just a
casino that you drive by sometimes.”

&nbsp;America's past is “not something where we have to
apologize for our ancestors' sins,” Red Corn said.

Instead, Red Corn wanst Native American civics taught in an effort to give a more complete picture of the
history of the people and land within the U.S. borders.

“It's a learning tool,” Red
Corn said. “Who was here? It's just a mechanism to make that visible. Who's
here? What's the history? What's the actual history
here?”

He noted examples in the
current Kansas education system that show how little Native American civics is taught.

“A study on civics curriculum
found Kansas was one of 14 states that have no mention of tribal sovereignty in
the civics curriculum,” he said. “So how will we expect you to know tribal
sovereignty if it's not in the systems of learning that you grew up with?”

And most of what is taught is
centered around a small time frame, envisioned as a generic Native American from the plains in
a full eagle feather headdress.

“Take a moment to consider if
everything you learned about white people was in the context of the Civil War
soldier,” he said. “It seems a little absurd, doesn't it? Do you learn about white
people outside of that context? Have you learned about African Americans
outside of that context?" 

"Have you learned about Native Americans much outside of that context?”

Teaching that history should
continue, but the bigger message is one of inclusion.

“It's about connecting the
present with the past,” he said. “Where's the modern representation within
those peoples? Where are its lessons? Where is it in your life? Where is it
when you flip on the TV?”

“Where are they? That's the
key question.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695240376974.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays Post<h2>‘What's the actual history
here?’ </h2>A fundamental piece of
American history and society is being left out of Kansas classrooms, Alex Red
Corn told a group of area educators Wednesday morning in the Memorial Union
Ballroom on the Fort Hays State University campus.Around 100 people gathered
to hear his opening remarks during the Creating Educational Spaces of Belonging
conference.The education system is
failing to provide “baseline knowledge” of the indigenous peoples within the U.S.,
Red Corn said.Red Corn, a citizen of the
Osage Nation, is an assistant professor of Education Leadership at Kansas State
University, coordinator of Indigenous Programs and executive director of the
Kansas Association for Native American Education.“Historically, our systems of
education are actually weaponized against the American Indians,” he said after
a brief introduction. “Schools were used as weapons
to assimilate and eradicate American Indian cultures,” he said. “We've all
inherited some of those status quos, and some of those status quos persist, or
some of those problems still persist,” he said.He challenged the group to be
“agents of change” as they face educational inequalities that persist in the education
system about Native American life, especially in a context outside of historical
stereotypes.He spoke about the atrocities
committed at boarding schools in Canada, tribal agreements with the U.S.
government and issues of sovereignty.And the Native American
students in public schools are especially disserviced by not having their history
taught in the classroom at all.Red Corn asked if assimilation ever stopped for the 90 percent of Native American children
who attend a public school.“How many of you grew up with
some of the teacher's indigenous language? Have you ever taken a tribal history
class? Tribal governance class?... What do you most students learn about
American Indians? And what have you learned about America?”He challenged the group to a
pop quiz to demonstrate the lack of basic working knowledge of Native American sovereignty
or status within the U.S.&nbsp;Red Corn pointed out that everyone in the room knew
the U.S. is made up of 50 states, starting with 13 colonies.“That's like in the basement
foundational stuff, right?” he said.But when he asked how many
tribes were located in the U.S., no one knew.“There are 574 federally
recognized tribes in the U.S.,” he said, pointing out that even the “most educated
people in the state of Kansas typically don’t know this.”When he asked how many federally
recognized tribes are in Kansas, again, no one knew.There are four, Red Corn
said.“So how could we, as
graduates of Kansas schools, expect these people to be able to engage with
these populations in these communities if they don’t even know they exist?” he
said.<h2>“They're more than just a
casino that you drive by sometimes.”</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695240347644.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;America's past is “not something where we have to
apologize for our ancestors' sins,” Red Corn said.Instead, Red Corn wanst Native American civics taught in an effort to give a more complete picture of the
history of the people and land within the U.S. borders.“It's a learning tool,” Red
Corn said. “Who was here? It's just a mechanism to make that visible. Who's
here? What's the history? What's the actual history
here?”He noted examples in the
current Kansas education system that show how little Native American civics is taught.“A study on civics curriculum
found Kansas was one of 14 states that have no mention of tribal sovereignty in
the civics curriculum,” he said. “So how will we expect you to know tribal
sovereignty if it's not in the systems of learning that you grew up with?”And most of what is taught is
centered around a small time frame, envisioned as a generic Native American from the plains in
a full eagle feather headdress.“Take a moment to consider if
everything you learned about white people was in the context of the Civil War
soldier,” he said. “It seems a little absurd, doesn't it? Do you learn about white
people outside of that context? Have you learned about African Americans
outside of that context?" "Have you learned about Native Americans much outside of that context?”Teaching that history should
continue, but the bigger message is one of inclusion.“It's about connecting the
present with the past,” he said. “Where's the modern representation within
those peoples? Where are its lessons? Where is it in your life? Where is it
when you flip on the TV?”“Where are they? That's the
key question.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695266248758.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Native American education lacking in Kansas schools says recent FHSU speaker

By MAGGIE HARRIS BCC

ELLSWORTH — Earlier this month, U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, R-KS, toured the Ellsworth Correctional Facility to learn about Barton Community College’s correctional education programming and visit with students.

The tour was led by facility administration, but the discussion centered on Barton’s programming and the students the college serves. Mann was most impressed by Barton’s commitment to workforce education for the students at the facility. He said that the environment that had been created was inspiring.

“I was excited to see the world-class technical education happening at both Barton Community College and Ellsworth Correctional Facility,” said Mann. “With labor shortages affecting nearly every American industry, I’m proud to see this kind of investment in the future of America’s economy happening right here in the Big First District.”&nbsp;

Barton’s Coordinator of Correctional Education Services Nicole Barr was present for the tour and said she engaged in very productive discussions with Mann about the educational environment and the students the college serves at correctional facility.

“Barton is doing its part to help create a safer Kansas,” Barr said. “Correctional education helps break the cycle of recidivism [committing repeat offenses] and helps offenders successfully and gainfully reintegrate into society.”

Barton has served the facililty for over twenty years and has become one of the nation's most successful correctional education programs. The program serves more than 200 students annually through adult basic education, traditional post-secondary courses, and technical training. Students can train in hands-on programs like welding technology, which allows them to gain a skill to help prepare them for a better future once released.

Mann sat down with students in a government class taught by Communications Instructor Peter Solie. He spent some time discussing what he does and the legislation he works on. He also had time to take some questions from the students on various topics.

Barr said that one thing Mann pointed out was all the Barton notebooks, folders, and backpacks the students were using, and Barr explained that those items are part of a deliberate effort to help the students really feel like college students as much as possible.

&nbsp;“We have a chance to help them mentally escape for a short time and experience college,” she said. “It gives them the space to explore their future and what they are really made of.”

Mann also toured the new agriculture and transportation complex construction site on the Barton County campus. 

Upon completion, the facility will be home to high-demand career programs, including agriculture business management, crop protection, beef cattle production, and commercial driver’s license. It will also house the highly anticipated Case New Holland (CNH) Top Tech Industrial Training program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694538149649.jpeg" alt="First Dist. Congressman Tracey Mann visits with Ellsworth Correctional Facility inmates who are taking courses through Barton Community College. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>First Dist. Congressman Tracey Mann visits with Ellsworth Correctional Facility inmates who are taking courses through Barton Community College. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MAGGIE HARRIS BCC ELLSWORTH — Earlier this month, U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, R-KS, toured the Ellsworth Correctional Facility to learn about Barton Community College’s correctional education programming and visit with students.The tour was led by facility administration, but the discussion centered on Barton’s programming and the students the college serves. Mann was most impressed by Barton’s commitment to workforce education for the students at the facility. He said that the environment that had been created was inspiring.“I was excited to see the world-class technical education happening at both Barton Community College and Ellsworth Correctional Facility,” said Mann. “With labor shortages affecting nearly every American industry, I’m proud to see this kind of investment in the future of America’s economy happening right here in the Big First District.”&nbsp;Barton’s Coordinator of Correctional Education Services Nicole Barr was present for the tour and said she engaged in very productive discussions with Mann about the educational environment and the students the college serves at correctional facility.“Barton is doing its part to help create a safer Kansas,” Barr said. “Correctional education helps break the cycle of recidivism [committing repeat offenses] and helps offenders successfully and gainfully reintegrate into society.”Barton has served the facililty for over twenty years and has become one of the nation's most successful correctional education programs. The program serves more than 200 students annually through adult basic education, traditional post-secondary courses, and technical training. Students can train in hands-on programs like welding technology, which allows them to gain a skill to help prepare them for a better future once released.Mann sat down with students in a government class taught by Communications Instructor Peter Solie. He spent some time discussing what he does and the legislation he works on. He also had time to take some questions from the students on various topics.Barr said that one thing Mann pointed out was all the Barton notebooks, folders, and backpacks the students were using, and Barr explained that those items are part of a deliberate effort to help the students really feel like college students as much as possible.&nbsp;“We have a chance to help them mentally escape for a short time and experience college,” she said. “It gives them the space to explore their future and what they are really made of.”Mann also toured the new agriculture and transportation complex construction site on the Barton County campus. Upon completion, the facility will be home to high-demand career programs, including agriculture business management, crop protection, beef cattle production, and commercial driver’s license. It will also house the highly anticipated Case New Holland (CNH) Top Tech Industrial Training program.

Rep. Mann praises Barton Community College opportunitites at Ellsworth Correctional Facility

Primary source research adds dimension to history. Hard copy sources limit researchers’ hypotheses and speculations. Sometimes, however, sources create more questions than they answer.

While working on this project in 1992, time restraints (I had approximately seven weeks to complete the project, including research, writing, and editing). Access to documents limited what I could include in my paper. 

Among favorite finds was Ellis Public Schools Second Annual Catalogue for 1913 – 1914. It offers insights into the community’s expectations for graduates and a couple of photos. Frankly, Ellis students who completed the work required for graduation left school prepared to enter the workforce. I’ve copied passages from the document to share with readers.

September 1-Enrollment and Classification September 2-Entrance Examination September 3-Regular Coursework Begins October 23 and 24-Half term Examination November 27 and 28-Thanksgiving Vacation December 18 and 19-First Term Examination December 19 to January 25-Christmas Vacation January 5-Second Term begins March 12 and 13-Half term examinations May 11-Baccalaureate Sermon May 18, 19, and 20-Final Examinations May 20-Commencement May 21-Alumni Day May 22-Last Day Programs

“The essential business of the school is not so much to teach and communicate a variety and multiplicity of things as it is to give prominence to the ever-living unity that is in all things.” Froebel

Fifteen Units are Required for Graduation&nbsp;(shared as written in the manual):

• Students who are preparing for admission to college should choose their elective studies so as to include at least two units in some foreign language and three units in one subject besides English to be taken from the following: Foreign language, mathematics, history, natural science.

• In branches which do not require preparation by the student outside of the recitation a unit of credit is given for a course of daily exercises extending through the year with double, or eighty-minute periods, and a half unit of credit is given for a course extending through the year with forty-minute periods.

• The Normal Training Course meets the requirements of the State Board of Education.

• If agriculture and domestic science are taken in the third year, this course will also satisfy the requirements of the State Board with reference to appropriations for these subjects.

• If two units in a foreign language are included in the electives, the course will be satisfactory for admission to most colleges.”

• Satisfactory rhetoricals are required of all students.” (Students were required to demonstrate mastery over a variety of writing skills and styles.)

Mahree Hamilton, Marie Chamberlain, Grace Houston, and Anna Shields fulfilled graduation goals as the senior class of 1913.

Later, in part 10 of this history, I’ll share high school course work schedules for college bound and non-college bound seniors. Students who satisfactorily completed that course work had skills to achieve any number of goals. 

Combining the district’s expected rigor with family expectations that sub-adult children contribute to family economies helps present day readers understand why graduating classes were small. Not every young person could devote the necessary time to meeting course requirements.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINPrimary source research adds dimension to history. Hard copy sources limit researchers’ hypotheses and speculations. Sometimes, however, sources create more questions than they answer. While working on this project in 1992, time restraints (I had approximately seven weeks to complete the project, including research, writing, and editing). Access to documents limited what I could include in my paper. Among favorite finds was Ellis Public Schools Second Annual Catalogue for 1913 – 1914. It offers insights into the community’s expectations for graduates and a couple of photos. Frankly, Ellis students who completed the work required for graduation left school prepared to enter the workforce. I’ve copied passages from the document to share with readers.Calendar, 1913 – 1914September 1-Enrollment and Classification September 2-Entrance Examination September 3-Regular Coursework Begins October 23 and 24-Half term Examination November 27 and 28-Thanksgiving Vacation December 18 and 19-First Term Examination December 19 to January 25-Christmas Vacation January 5-Second Term begins March 12 and 13-Half term examinations May 11-Baccalaureate Sermon May 18, 19, and 20-Final Examinations May 20-Commencement May 21-Alumni Day May 22-Last Day Programs Quote in program:“The essential business of the school is not so much to teach and communicate a variety and multiplicity of things as it is to give prominence to the ever-living unity that is in all things.” Froebel<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225334822.jpeg" alt="1913-1914 Ellis High School staff&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>1913-1914 Ellis High School staff&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Fifteen Units are Required for Graduation&nbsp;(shared as written in the manual):• Students who are preparing for admission to college should choose their elective studies so as to include at least two units in some foreign language and three units in one subject besides English to be taken from the following: Foreign language, mathematics, history, natural science. • In branches which do not require preparation by the student outside of the recitation a unit of credit is given for a course of daily exercises extending through the year with double, or eighty-minute periods, and a half unit of credit is given for a course extending through the year with forty-minute periods.• The Normal Training Course meets the requirements of the State Board of Education.• If agriculture and domestic science are taken in the third year, this course will also satisfy the requirements of the State Board with reference to appropriations for these subjects.• If two units in a foreign language are included in the electives, the course will be satisfactory for admission to most colleges.”• Satisfactory rhetoricals are required of all students.” (Students were required to demonstrate mastery over a variety of writing skills and styles.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225394463.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School senior class of 1913. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School senior class of 1913. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Mahree Hamilton, Marie Chamberlain, Grace Houston, and Anna Shields fulfilled graduation goals as the senior class of 1913.Later, in part 10 of this history, I’ll share high school course work schedules for college bound and non-college bound seniors. Students who satisfactorily completed that course work had skills to achieve any number of goals. Combining the district’s expected rigor with family expectations that sub-adult children contribute to family economies helps present day readers understand why graduating classes were small. Not every young person could devote the necessary time to meeting course requirements.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

MADORIN: History of Ellis Schools – Part 9

LAWRENCE — The 57th&nbsp;edition of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/ksah/ksa34.shtml">Kansas Statistical Abstract</a>, an annually released compendium of data about Kansas, is now available on the Institute for Policy &amp; Social Research website.

The abstract publishes data in 17 sections ranging from agriculture to vital statistics and health. These data help community leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers and others make informed decisions and understand how Kansas is changing.

“The KSA paints a statistical portrait of the state of Kansas — what we looked like in the past and what we look like now. Kansans use the KSA to learn more about their communities, whether it be about agricultural production or educational attainment,” said Donna Ginther, Roy A. Roberts and Regents Distinguished Professor of Economics and director of the Institute for Policy &amp; Social Research.

As the United States experiences a series of extreme weather events, including widespread heat waves and wildfires, the 57th&nbsp;edition of the abstract includes a newly&nbsp;<a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/ksah/climate/">expanded chapter on climate</a>. One map shows the number of weeks in 2021 with severe, extreme or exceptional drought in Kansas by county. In 2021, 95 of the 105 counties in Kansas experienced at least one week with such drought, and five counties experienced 8-10 weeks of such drought. Drought can have significant impacts on the health of residents as well as the economic productivity of a place.

The abstract also includes a map comparing the total precipitation in 2022 to the 30-year average annual precipitation for each of six Kansas regions. Throughout the state, annual precipitation for each region fell between 5-10 inches. In the western part of the state, this decline was especially steep. One region received just over half the rainfall in 2022 compared to the average rainfall in this region from 1981 to 2010.

The climate chapter in the newest edition of the abstract also features a map showing the number of days in 2021 with a maximum daily temperature of 100 degrees or higher by county in Kansas. Of the 105 counties in Kansas, 33 experienced more than 21 days of extreme heat, and all but 14 counties experienced at least one day of extreme heat. Extreme heat hit central Kansas especially hard in 2021.

“With an increasing number of climate events, we felt it was important to add data and maps quantifying extreme heat and drought to help Kansans understand local trends and potential impacts on our health and economy,” said Xan Wedel, senior research data engineer for IPSR and a key member of the KSA team.

Prepared by staff and students at IPSR,&nbsp;<a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/ksah/">the abstract is available on the IPSR website</a>&nbsp;at no cost to users. Resources include a PDF of the current edition and all previous 56 editions, and electronic files for each resource in spreadsheets or high-quality images.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694550037805.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — The 57th&nbsp;edition of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/ksah/ksa34.shtml">Kansas Statistical Abstract</a>, an annually released compendium of data about Kansas, is now available on the Institute for Policy &amp; Social Research website.The abstract publishes data in 17 sections ranging from agriculture to vital statistics and health. These data help community leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers and others make informed decisions and understand how Kansas is changing.“The KSA paints a statistical portrait of the state of Kansas — what we looked like in the past and what we look like now. Kansans use the KSA to learn more about their communities, whether it be about agricultural production or educational attainment,” said Donna Ginther, Roy A. Roberts and Regents Distinguished Professor of Economics and director of the Institute for Policy &amp; Social Research.As the United States experiences a series of extreme weather events, including widespread heat waves and wildfires, the 57th&nbsp;edition of the abstract includes a newly&nbsp;<a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/ksah/climate/">expanded chapter on climate</a>. One map shows the number of weeks in 2021 with severe, extreme or exceptional drought in Kansas by county. In 2021, 95 of the 105 counties in Kansas experienced at least one week with such drought, and five counties experienced 8-10 weeks of such drought. Drought can have significant impacts on the health of residents as well as the economic productivity of a place.The abstract also includes a map comparing the total precipitation in 2022 to the 30-year average annual precipitation for each of six Kansas regions. Throughout the state, annual precipitation for each region fell between 5-10 inches. In the western part of the state, this decline was especially steep. One region received just over half the rainfall in 2022 compared to the average rainfall in this region from 1981 to 2010.The climate chapter in the newest edition of the abstract also features a map showing the number of days in 2021 with a maximum daily temperature of 100 degrees or higher by county in Kansas. Of the 105 counties in Kansas, 33 experienced more than 21 days of extreme heat, and all but 14 counties experienced at least one day of extreme heat. Extreme heat hit central Kansas especially hard in 2021.“With an increasing number of climate events, we felt it was important to add data and maps quantifying extreme heat and drought to help Kansans understand local trends and potential impacts on our health and economy,” said Xan Wedel, senior research data engineer for IPSR and a key member of the KSA team.Prepared by staff and students at IPSR,&nbsp;<a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/ksah/">the abstract is available on the IPSR website</a>&nbsp;at no cost to users. Resources include a PDF of the current edition and all previous 56 editions, and electronic files for each resource in spreadsheets or high-quality images.

Portion of W. Kan. received half of rainfall in 2022 compared to 1981-2010 average, show latest stats

<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/2023/9/1695239543024.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

SHERIDAN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident that forced a school and hospital into lock down.

Just before 7a.m. Wednesday Sheridan County sheriff's deputies and Hoxie Police responded to a report of theft and criminal trespass in the 1800 Block of Sheridan Avenue in Hoxie, according to a media release.

Through their investigation, officer identified a suspect as 30-year-old Olajawun Scott. Just after 7a.m. officer made contact with him at the corner of 16th and Sheridan.

After locating stolen items among the suspect's personal belongings, officer attempted to place Scott into handcuffs. He resisted and fled from officers.

Despite a thorough search, officers were unable to locate him. As a precaution, the Sheridan County Health complex and USD 412 schools were placed on lock down.

Just after 10:30a.m. officers contacted the suspect by phone and he surrendered without further incident.&nbsp; Scott was booked into the Thomas County Jail while formal charges are requested with the Sheridan County Attorney for theft and interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695244818392.png" alt="Scott is being held in Thomas County" />
 <figcaption>Scott is being held in Thomas County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERIDAN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident that forced a school and hospital into lock down.Just before 7a.m. Wednesday Sheridan County sheriff's deputies and Hoxie Police responded to a report of theft and criminal trespass in the 1800 Block of Sheridan Avenue in Hoxie, according to a media release.Through their investigation, officer identified a suspect as 30-year-old Olajawun Scott. Just after 7a.m. officer made contact with him at the corner of 16th and Sheridan.After locating stolen items among the suspect's personal belongings, officer attempted to place Scott into handcuffs. He resisted and fled from officers.Despite a thorough search, officers were unable to locate him. As a precaution, the Sheridan County Health complex and USD 412 schools were placed on lock down.Just after 10:30a.m. officers contacted the suspect by phone and he surrendered without further incident.&nbsp; Scott was booked into the Thomas County Jail while formal charges are requested with the Sheridan County Attorney for theft and interference with law enforcement.

School, hospital locked down during search for NW Kan. theft suspect 

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is awarding $10 million from the agency’s Small Town Water and Sewer Infrastructure Assistance (STWSIA) grant program to help 18 small communities, including several in northwest Kansas, improve water and wastewater services.

That program received the funds through the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas program funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

Grant applicants were comprised of water and wastewater utilities with a population of less than 1,000 and that have a public health or regulatory compliance issue that infrastructure improvements would help resolve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“These investments go a long way to provide the necessary resources to update wastewater infrastructure and meet the needs of our communities,” Kelly said. “These upgrades will make sure small towns are able to provide safe and clean water, improving the livelihood of their residents.”&nbsp;

“There is a great need for investment in water and wastewater infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Leo Henning, KDHE Deputy Secretary for Environment. “The Small Town Water and Sewer Infrastructure Assistance program allows for improvements and developments in communities that may otherwise be prohibited due to cost. KDHE will partner with the awarded communities to implement the projects outlined in their applications.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grant awards were made to 18 utilities:&nbsp;

• The City of Albert ($56,000, population 128)&nbsp;for the rehabilitation of the existing wastewater lagoon cells to remove contaminated soil and install a new clay liner.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Arlington ($1,035,000, population of 431)&nbsp;for new public water supply wells in a new area to replace existing water supply wells that exceed the maximum contaminant level for nitrate.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Copeland ($600,000, population 251)&nbsp;for a new public water supply well, disinfection treatment facility, and interconnection with an existing well to reduce nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Galva ($1,016,230, population 870)&nbsp;for new public water supply wells, transmission mains, a disinfection treatment facility, and a blending facility to resolve arsenic contamination.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Herndon ($50,000, population 121)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing wastewater lagoon facility to resolve a KDHE Consent Order to improve the lagoon system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Ingalls ($112,000, population 249)&nbsp;to replace a failing sewage lift station that bypasses the treatment facility when inoperable.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Hanston ($499,000, population 260)&nbsp;to construct a non-discharging lagoon treatment system to replace the existing 60-year-old wastewater treatment plant that cannot meet permit requirements in accordance with a KDHE Consent Order.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Holyrood ($187,000, population 409)&nbsp;to interconnect existing wells to a blending station facility to reduce radium contamination below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Miami County/Bucyrus ($1,500,000 population 192)&nbsp;to abandon the existing non-compliant wastewater treatment facility and interconnect with the City of Spring Hill to treat the wastewater.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Morland ($210,000, population 115)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing lagoon treatment facility to comply with allowable seepage rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Narka ($283,000, population 80)&nbsp;to replace an aerial truss collector pipe at the downstream end of the City’s sanitary sewer collection system that leaks raw sewage.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Olsburg ($490,000, population 221)&nbsp;to improve the existing lagoon treatment facility that is not meeting current permit requirements and convert it to a non-discharging facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

•&nbsp;The City of Palco ($500,000, population 210)&nbsp;to construct a new water treatment plant to reduce nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Riley County/University Park Sewer Benefit District ($1,500,000, population 300)&nbsp;to construct a non-discharging lagoon facility to replace the existing mechanical treatment facility that cannot meet permit requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Susank ($300,000, population 28)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing lagoon treatment system to comply with allowable seepage rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• The City of Sylvia ($1,000,000, population 210)&nbsp;to construct new wells to supply water with nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Reno County Rural Water District 101 ($600,000, population 200)&nbsp;to interconnect with Hutchinson and blend the existing water supply to reduce nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Rooks County Rural Water District No. 3 ($61,770, population 380)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing water treatment plant to improve the removal of nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688054562955.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is awarding $10 million from the agency’s Small Town Water and Sewer Infrastructure Assistance (STWSIA) grant program to help 18 small communities, including several in northwest Kansas, improve water and wastewater services. That program received the funds through the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas program funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act.Grant applicants were comprised of water and wastewater utilities with a population of less than 1,000 and that have a public health or regulatory compliance issue that infrastructure improvements would help resolve.&nbsp;&nbsp;“These investments go a long way to provide the necessary resources to update wastewater infrastructure and meet the needs of our communities,” Kelly said. “These upgrades will make sure small towns are able to provide safe and clean water, improving the livelihood of their residents.”&nbsp;“There is a great need for investment in water and wastewater infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Leo Henning, KDHE Deputy Secretary for Environment. “The Small Town Water and Sewer Infrastructure Assistance program allows for improvements and developments in communities that may otherwise be prohibited due to cost. KDHE will partner with the awarded communities to implement the projects outlined in their applications.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Grant awards were made to 18 utilities:&nbsp;• The City of Albert ($56,000, population 128)&nbsp;for the rehabilitation of the existing wastewater lagoon cells to remove contaminated soil and install a new clay liner.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Arlington ($1,035,000, population of 431)&nbsp;for new public water supply wells in a new area to replace existing water supply wells that exceed the maximum contaminant level for nitrate.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Copeland ($600,000, population 251)&nbsp;for a new public water supply well, disinfection treatment facility, and interconnection with an existing well to reduce nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Galva ($1,016,230, population 870)&nbsp;for new public water supply wells, transmission mains, a disinfection treatment facility, and a blending facility to resolve arsenic contamination.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Herndon ($50,000, population 121)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing wastewater lagoon facility to resolve a KDHE Consent Order to improve the lagoon system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Ingalls ($112,000, population 249)&nbsp;to replace a failing sewage lift station that bypasses the treatment facility when inoperable.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Hanston ($499,000, population 260)&nbsp;to construct a non-discharging lagoon treatment system to replace the existing 60-year-old wastewater treatment plant that cannot meet permit requirements in accordance with a KDHE Consent Order.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Holyrood ($187,000, population 409)&nbsp;to interconnect existing wells to a blending station facility to reduce radium contamination below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Miami County/Bucyrus ($1,500,000 population 192)&nbsp;to abandon the existing non-compliant wastewater treatment facility and interconnect with the City of Spring Hill to treat the wastewater.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Morland ($210,000, population 115)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing lagoon treatment facility to comply with allowable seepage rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Narka ($283,000, population 80)&nbsp;to replace an aerial truss collector pipe at the downstream end of the City’s sanitary sewer collection system that leaks raw sewage.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Olsburg ($490,000, population 221)&nbsp;to improve the existing lagoon treatment facility that is not meeting current permit requirements and convert it to a non-discharging facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;The City of Palco ($500,000, population 210)&nbsp;to construct a new water treatment plant to reduce nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Riley County/University Park Sewer Benefit District ($1,500,000, population 300)&nbsp;to construct a non-discharging lagoon facility to replace the existing mechanical treatment facility that cannot meet permit requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Susank ($300,000, population 28)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing lagoon treatment system to comply with allowable seepage rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The City of Sylvia ($1,000,000, population 210)&nbsp;to construct new wells to supply water with nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Reno County Rural Water District 101 ($600,000, population 200)&nbsp;to interconnect with Hutchinson and blend the existing water supply to reduce nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Rooks County Rural Water District No. 3 ($61,770, population 380)&nbsp;to rehabilitate the existing water treatment plant to improve the removal of nitrate contaminants below the maximum contaminant level.&nbsp;

Small regional communities receive funds for utility infrastructure improvements 

PRATT&nbsp;– Beginning this fall, Kansas will have&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9XaGF0LXRvLUh1bnQvVHVya2V5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.JlaZjlK4gFUMf1kSeMNjAlTr9wgj9pegEBhe-LER_o0/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">no fall turkey hunting season</a>&nbsp;due to declining populations at state and regional levels. The difficult decision was arrived at by members of the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission after hearing compelling recommendations from staff over the course of four public meetings.

“We’ve documented consistent declines in turkey populations over the last 15 years largely due to reduced production levels,” said Kent Fricke, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks small game biologist. “These trends are not unique to Kansas. States across the Midwest and Southeast have experienced similar patterns in turkey populations.”

Though far fewer turkey hunters participate in the fall season than in the spring in Kansas, wildlife biologists said it remained an important component of overall harvest.

“The estimated statewide fall harvest of turkey was less than 500 birds in 2022,” said Fricke. “While this is a small proportion of the statewide population, fall harvest is an additive source of mortality for turkeys, especially when hens are harvested.”

Over the past several years, commissioners have approved other preventative recommendations to reduce the impact of the fall season on turkey populations. In 2017, commissioners voted to reduce the statewide bag limit from four birds to one bird. In 2019, fall turkey season dates were reduced from Oct. 1 through Jan. 31 (123 days) to Oct. 1 through Nov. 10 (41 days).

But not all is lost. Staff continue working diligently to obtain as much data as possible in hopes of one day reversing declining population trends. One such example is a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL05ld3MvV2Vla2x5LU5ld3MvOC0zLTIzLUtEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5L0tEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.6o9JcoR4Qngcg2RBaCZVjA6LWlNYxSohH0bezKOBsA8/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">new research project set to begin in Kansas in January 2024</a>&nbsp;to examine wild turkey populations and ecology to inform state harvest and habitat management (more&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL05ld3MvV2Vla2x5LU5ld3MvOC0zLTIzLUtEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5L0tEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.NKHr08bPi4F16Td02-54_-kIzc23pD_MQBHUVDffpg4/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>).

To learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9XaGF0LXRvLUh1bnQvVHVya2V5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.OCMjgO_JkQpVC6wlp-LsJe8AidyXHiD3zcVHcdk_yGk/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">turkey hunting</a>&nbsp;in Kansas – including&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL05ld3MvV2Vla2x5LU5ld3MvNy03LTIzLUthbnNhcy1XaWxkbGlmZS1hbmQtUGFya3MtQ29tbWlzc2lvbi1BcHByb3Zlcy1Mb3R0ZXJ5LURyYXctZm9yLU5vbi1yZXNpZGVudC1UdXJrZXktUGVybWl0cy9LYW5zYXMtV2lsZGxpZmUtYW5kLVBhcmtzLUNvbW1pc3Npb24tQXBwcm92ZXMtTG90dGVyeS1EcmF3LWZvci1Ob24tcmVzaWRlbnQtVHVya2V5LVBlcm1pdHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE1LjgyNjQzMjMxIn0.L8tU9Hl8aO3hLlxSx1v6n7cxxfsYhH-AajqEr5k3dcs/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">Kansas’ all-new lottery draw for non-resident turkey permits</a>&nbsp;and other regulation changes aimed at population conservation – visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting then select “Turkey.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575650573142.jpeg" alt="Wild turkeys. Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Wild turkeys. Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– Beginning this fall, Kansas will have&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9XaGF0LXRvLUh1bnQvVHVya2V5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.JlaZjlK4gFUMf1kSeMNjAlTr9wgj9pegEBhe-LER_o0/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">no fall turkey hunting season</a>&nbsp;due to declining populations at state and regional levels. The difficult decision was arrived at by members of the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission after hearing compelling recommendations from staff over the course of four public meetings.“We’ve documented consistent declines in turkey populations over the last 15 years largely due to reduced production levels,” said Kent Fricke, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks small game biologist. “These trends are not unique to Kansas. States across the Midwest and Southeast have experienced similar patterns in turkey populations.”Though far fewer turkey hunters participate in the fall season than in the spring in Kansas, wildlife biologists said it remained an important component of overall harvest.“The estimated statewide fall harvest of turkey was less than 500 birds in 2022,” said Fricke. “While this is a small proportion of the statewide population, fall harvest is an additive source of mortality for turkeys, especially when hens are harvested.”Over the past several years, commissioners have approved other preventative recommendations to reduce the impact of the fall season on turkey populations. In 2017, commissioners voted to reduce the statewide bag limit from four birds to one bird. In 2019, fall turkey season dates were reduced from Oct. 1 through Jan. 31 (123 days) to Oct. 1 through Nov. 10 (41 days).But not all is lost. Staff continue working diligently to obtain as much data as possible in hopes of one day reversing declining population trends. One such example is a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL05ld3MvV2Vla2x5LU5ld3MvOC0zLTIzLUtEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5L0tEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.6o9JcoR4Qngcg2RBaCZVjA6LWlNYxSohH0bezKOBsA8/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">new research project set to begin in Kansas in January 2024</a>&nbsp;to examine wild turkey populations and ecology to inform state harvest and habitat management (more&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL05ld3MvV2Vla2x5LU5ld3MvOC0zLTIzLUtEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5L0tEV1AtTmF0aW9uYWwtV2lsZC1UdXJrZXktRmVkZXJhdGlvbi10by1GdW5kLVdpbGQtVHVya2V5LVJlc2VhcmNoLWF0LUthbnNhcy1TdGF0ZS1Vbml2ZXJzaXR5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.NKHr08bPi4F16Td02-54_-kIzc23pD_MQBHUVDffpg4/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>).To learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9XaGF0LXRvLUh1bnQvVHVya2V5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxNS44MjY0MzIzMSJ9.OCMjgO_JkQpVC6wlp-LsJe8AidyXHiD3zcVHcdk_yGk/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">turkey hunting</a>&nbsp;in Kansas – including&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL05ld3MvV2Vla2x5LU5ld3MvNy03LTIzLUthbnNhcy1XaWxkbGlmZS1hbmQtUGFya3MtQ29tbWlzc2lvbi1BcHByb3Zlcy1Mb3R0ZXJ5LURyYXctZm9yLU5vbi1yZXNpZGVudC1UdXJrZXktUGVybWl0cy9LYW5zYXMtV2lsZGxpZmUtYW5kLVBhcmtzLUNvbW1pc3Npb24tQXBwcm92ZXMtTG90dGVyeS1EcmF3LWZvci1Ob24tcmVzaWRlbnQtVHVya2V5LVBlcm1pdHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE1LjgyNjQzMjMxIn0.L8tU9Hl8aO3hLlxSx1v6n7cxxfsYhH-AajqEr5k3dcs/s/1303179659/br/225996850288-l" target="_blank">Kansas’ all-new lottery draw for non-resident turkey permits</a>&nbsp;and other regulation changes aimed at population conservation – visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting then select “Turkey.”

KDWP: No fall turkey hunting season in Kansas due to declining populations

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Each year, the Governor’s Council on Wellness&nbsp;(previously the Governor's Council on Fitness)&nbsp;recognizes one exceptional individual and one remarkable organization in Kansas who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting health, fitness and wellness in our communities.

Nominees for the 2024 Health Champion Award can come from diverse backgrounds – from health care professionals and educators to community leaders and volunteers. The award highlights outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly impacted health awareness, disease prevention and overall well-being within our state.

“We are excited to review this year’s nominations and see all the great work being done throughout our state,” said&nbsp;Jody Hoener, awards committee chair. “We encourage everyone to nominate the Health Champions in their communities.”

The nomination process is simple and can be completed online. The form requires a brief description of the nominee’s accomplishments and how they have positively influenced their community’s health. It also asks some basic questions about the nominee’s contact information so they can be notified if they receive the award.

The deadline to submit the nomination form is October 31, 2023. The winners will be notified via email, and awards will be announced via a press release in late November. &nbsp;

The awards ceremony will take place on&nbsp;Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Community Health Promotion Summit that will be held in Wichita at the WSU Woolsey Center.

To access the nomination form, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnN1cnZleW1vbmtleS5jb20vci9DVDc3UllWP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MzAuODE4ODA5ODEifQ._sr2eeslbmcPi4YHTh1wilbdK4H-nmmt361kl0qJedY/s/1305913542/br/225035695632-l" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CT77RYV</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695223345866.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;Each year, the Governor’s Council on Wellness&nbsp;(previously the Governor's Council on Fitness)&nbsp;recognizes one exceptional individual and one remarkable organization in Kansas who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting health, fitness and wellness in our communities.Nominees for the 2024 Health Champion Award can come from diverse backgrounds – from health care professionals and educators to community leaders and volunteers. The award highlights outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly impacted health awareness, disease prevention and overall well-being within our state.“We are excited to review this year’s nominations and see all the great work being done throughout our state,” said&nbsp;Jody Hoener, awards committee chair. “We encourage everyone to nominate the Health Champions in their communities.”The nomination process is simple and can be completed online. The form requires a brief description of the nominee’s accomplishments and how they have positively influenced their community’s health. It also asks some basic questions about the nominee’s contact information so they can be notified if they receive the award.The deadline to submit the nomination form is October 31, 2023. The winners will be notified via email, and awards will be announced via a press release in late November. &nbsp;The awards ceremony will take place on&nbsp;Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Community Health Promotion Summit that will be held in Wichita at the WSU Woolsey Center.To access the nomination form, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnN1cnZleW1vbmtleS5jb20vci9DVDc3UllWP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MzAuODE4ODA5ODEifQ._sr2eeslbmcPi4YHTh1wilbdK4H-nmmt361kl0qJedY/s/1305913542/br/225035695632-l" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CT77RYV</a>.

Governor’s Council on Wellness opens nominations for 2024 Health Champion Award

Some residents in Rush County got a good look at a landspout early Tuesday evening as some severe storms popped up in the region.

The brief landspout was located northwest of Liebenthal just after 6 p.m.,&nbsp;according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.&nbsp;

A second land spout was reported near Nekoma also about 6 p.m.

Tuesday's very isolated storms included heavy rainfall. Nearly 1.5 inches fell near Otis.

Quarter-size hail and heavy rain was reported in Pawnee County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695220120796.jpeg" alt="Landspout near Liebenthal&nbsp; early Tuesday evening. Photos courtesy Kate Wary." />
 <figcaption>Landspout near Liebenthal&nbsp; early Tuesday evening. Photos courtesy Kate Wary.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostSome residents in Rush County got a good look at a landspout early Tuesday evening as some severe storms popped up in the region.The brief landspout was located northwest of Liebenthal just after 6 p.m.,&nbsp;according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.&nbsp;A second land spout was reported near Nekoma also about 6 p.m.Tuesday's very isolated storms included heavy rainfall. Nearly 1.5 inches fell near Otis.Quarter-size hail and heavy rain was reported in Pawnee County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695221584773.jpeg" alt="A land spout near northwest of Liebenthal begins forming early in the evening of&nbsp; Sept. 19. Photos courtesy Kate Wary" />
 <figcaption>A land spout near northwest of Liebenthal begins forming early in the evening of&nbsp; Sept. 19. Photos courtesy Kate Wary</figcaption>
 </figure>

Land spout seen near Liebenthal in isolated storms Tuesday

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;announced the launch of a new partnership that will create savings and streamline services for child care providers across Kansas. 

The Kansas Department for Children and Families, Child Care Aware of Kansas, and five community-based organizations, including&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Innovation Center based in Norton,&nbsp;are partnering on the Shared Service Network to streamline administrative costs for providers and free up time for programs to focus on providing high-quality child care.

“For many Kansas kids, quality child care is essential for them to have a solid start to their developmental growth,”&nbsp;said Kelly. “This network will provide child care professionals the resources they need so they can focus on young Kansans in their care.”

By participating in the Shared Services Network, child care providers benefit from services that cost less and are often more efficient than what the programs could do on their own.

 A wide range of services are available to reshape child care, including:

• Group purchasing plans;&nbsp; • Advanced business software to manage enrollment and billing; • Shared administrative staff; &nbsp; • Support for hiring staff and finding substitutes; and&nbsp; • Personalized professional development.

“By working together, child care providers can save money and invest more in key parts of early childhood education, like better pay for their staff, high-quality curriculum, and other supplies needed to operate a child care business,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Laura Howard, Secretary Kansas Department for Children and Families.

The five community-based organizations that have been selected to implement the Shared Services Network will have the responsibility for delivering services to participating child care programs that result in cost savings.

“Shared Services represent an innovative approach to making the business side of child care work,”&nbsp;said Kelly Davydov, executive director of Child Care Aware of Kansas. “We have a unique opportunity to realize cost savings for participating child care programs so that they can earn more or reinvest in other aspects of their business, like high-quality curriculum for the young children in their care.”

Shared Services Networks will be provided by the following organizations:

•&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Innovation Center: Serving 29 counties in the Northwest and North Central areas of Kansas.&nbsp;

• Child Care Aware of Kansas: Serving 39 counties in the Southwest and South Central areas of Kansas.&nbsp;

• Community Children’s Center: Serving 16 counties in the Northeast area of Kansas.&nbsp;

• Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas: Serving 17 counties in the Southeast area of Kansas.&nbsp;

• The Family Conservancy: Serving five counties in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3MuY2hpbGRjYXJlYXdhcmUub3JnL3NzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTkuODI4MDg5MzEifQ.un5djAeCN50osr-AsOmDnbNDtZyzRU_mu5Se1RtG4No/s/1303161001/br/226197151085-l" target="_blank">Shared Services Network - Child Care Aware</a>.

To learn more about Child Care Aware of Kansas and how you can join us in ensuring access to high-quality child care for all families, visit us at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cua3MuY2hpbGRjYXJlYXdhcmUub3JnIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxOS44MjgwODkzMSJ9.JxPXQ1B6oq2w0HyYDoZOLazRD8xUDAhhDMpzFvsCT6I/s/1303161001/br/226197151085-l" target="_blank">www.ks.childcareaware.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695152142235.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;announced the launch of a new partnership that will create savings and streamline services for child care providers across Kansas. The Kansas Department for Children and Families, Child Care Aware of Kansas, and five community-based organizations, including&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Innovation Center based in Norton,&nbsp;are partnering on the Shared Service Network to streamline administrative costs for providers and free up time for programs to focus on providing high-quality child care.“For many Kansas kids, quality child care is essential for them to have a solid start to their developmental growth,”&nbsp;said Kelly. “This network will provide child care professionals the resources they need so they can focus on young Kansans in their care.”By participating in the Shared Services Network, child care providers benefit from services that cost less and are often more efficient than what the programs could do on their own. A wide range of services are available to reshape child care, including:• Group purchasing plans;&nbsp; • Advanced business software to manage enrollment and billing; • Shared administrative staff; &nbsp; • Support for hiring staff and finding substitutes; and&nbsp; • Personalized professional development. “By working together, child care providers can save money and invest more in key parts of early childhood education, like better pay for their staff, high-quality curriculum, and other supplies needed to operate a child care business,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Laura Howard, Secretary Kansas Department for Children and Families.The five community-based organizations that have been selected to implement the Shared Services Network will have the responsibility for delivering services to participating child care programs that result in cost savings.“Shared Services represent an innovative approach to making the business side of child care work,”&nbsp;said Kelly Davydov, executive director of Child Care Aware of Kansas. “We have a unique opportunity to realize cost savings for participating child care programs so that they can earn more or reinvest in other aspects of their business, like high-quality curriculum for the young children in their care.”Shared Services Networks will be provided by the following organizations:•&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Innovation Center: Serving 29 counties in the Northwest and North Central areas of Kansas.&nbsp; • Child Care Aware of Kansas: Serving 39 counties in the Southwest and South Central areas of Kansas.&nbsp;• Community Children’s Center: Serving 16 counties in the Northeast area of Kansas.&nbsp;• Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas: Serving 17 counties in the Southeast area of Kansas.&nbsp;• The Family Conservancy: Serving five counties in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3MuY2hpbGRjYXJlYXdhcmUub3JnL3NzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTkuODI4MDg5MzEifQ.un5djAeCN50osr-AsOmDnbNDtZyzRU_mu5Se1RtG4No/s/1303161001/br/226197151085-l" target="_blank">Shared Services Network - Child Care Aware</a>.To learn more about Child Care Aware of Kansas and how you can join us in ensuring access to high-quality child care for all families, visit us at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cua3MuY2hpbGRjYXJlYXdhcmUub3JnIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkxOS44MjgwODkzMSJ9.JxPXQ1B6oq2w0HyYDoZOLazRD8xUDAhhDMpzFvsCT6I/s/1303161001/br/226197151085-l" target="_blank">www.ks.childcareaware.org</a>.

Northwest Kansas Innovation Center part of child care providers Shared Services Network 

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Julie Rider has been executive director of the Downtown Hays Development Corporation for a little more than a year and loves it.

She was first the interim director for six months, coming off the board of directors when Sara Bloom left the position to take a job with the Kansas Department of Commerce. She's been in the position permanently since February.&nbsp;

"I love downtown Hays. That was the reason I was on the board to begin with," Rider said. "It just felt like a great fit, and I love being down there with the businesses."

Rider is a Hays native. Her family was one of the first to settle in Hays in the 1800s, she said, "and I've always been fascinated by the history of Hays."

In her position, Rider stays busy organizing the many programs and fundraisers hosted by the non-profit organization.

With fall almost here, a couple of popular events are returning to downtown Hays.

"Wines and Steins" is on Friday. Ticket-holders, limited to 300 people, will stroll to 12 locations throughout downtown. Specialty foods and beverages will be provided at each stop.&nbsp;

There are three new stops on the tour this year. Two of the businesses are new to downtown Hays, Sunflowers and Silos and Kat's Hallmark.

Several local wineries contributed their wines to the fundraiser.&nbsp;

A post-stroll celebration with music will be in the Downtown Pavilion at Union Pacific Park, featuring desserts and a live auction.&nbsp;

VIP and general admission tickets are available <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/event-details/wines-steins-2023-1">online</a> and at the DHDC office.

The annual Farm to Fork five-course dinner is Oct. 19 at the Strand Event Center.&nbsp;

"This is a great night that highlights our downtown Hays market," Rider said.

"We'll have an executive chef team preparing a wonderful meal, with local fall produce and meats from our downtown market vendors."

Rider wouldn't reveal the five-course menu. The chefs like to keep it a closely guarded secret until a few days before the event.&nbsp;

The downtown market operates Saturday mornings into the fall season, this year until Oct. 21.&nbsp;

Proceeds from Farm to Fork will benefit the Downtown Hays Market.&nbsp;

Tickets are available at the DHDC office, 1200 Main, or by calling 785-621-4171.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694722038543.png" alt="Farm to Fork benefits the Downtown Hays Market. Photo courtesy DHDC" />
 <figcaption>Farm to Fork benefits the Downtown Hays Market. Photo courtesy DHDC</figcaption>
 </figure><div>
<iframe title="Downtown Hays Dev. prepares for fall events" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wqawa-149a062-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostJulie Rider has been executive director of the Downtown Hays Development Corporation for a little more than a year and loves it.She was first the interim director for six months, coming off the board of directors when Sara Bloom left the position to take a job with the Kansas Department of Commerce. She's been in the position permanently since February.&nbsp;"I love downtown Hays. That was the reason I was on the board to begin with," Rider said. "It just felt like a great fit, and I love being down there with the businesses."Rider is a Hays native. Her family was one of the first to settle in Hays in the 1800s, she said, "and I've always been fascinated by the history of Hays."In her position, Rider stays busy organizing the many programs and fundraisers hosted by the non-profit organization.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694720388157.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With fall almost here, a couple of popular events are returning to downtown Hays."Wines and Steins" is on Friday. Ticket-holders, limited to 300 people, will stroll to 12 locations throughout downtown. Specialty foods and beverages will be provided at each stop.&nbsp;There are three new stops on the tour this year. Two of the businesses are new to downtown Hays, Sunflowers and Silos and Kat's Hallmark.Several local wineries contributed their wines to the fundraiser.&nbsp;A post-stroll celebration with music will be in the Downtown Pavilion at Union Pacific Park, featuring desserts and a live auction.&nbsp;VIP and general admission tickets are available <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/event-details/wines-steins-2023-1">online</a> and at the DHDC office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694721348788.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The annual Farm to Fork five-course dinner is Oct. 19 at the Strand Event Center.&nbsp;"This is a great night that highlights our downtown Hays market," Rider said."We'll have an executive chef team preparing a wonderful meal, with local fall produce and meats from our downtown market vendors."Rider wouldn't reveal the five-course menu. The chefs like to keep it a closely guarded secret until a few days before the event.&nbsp;The downtown market operates Saturday mornings into the fall season, this year until Oct. 21.&nbsp;Proceeds from Farm to Fork will benefit the Downtown Hays Market.&nbsp;

Tickets are available at the DHDC office, 1200 Main, or by calling 785-621-4171.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎙 Downtown Hays group ready for fall events; new director has deep local roots

By LAAH TUCKER Natoma Lions Club

NATOMA — Natoma Lions Club continues a legacy in serving the community with 83 years of volunteer work. 

On Labor Day, members with volunteers served a mid-day cookout in the Natoma park's pavilion built by the Club decades ago.

 K&amp;W hamburgers and Pfortmiller Farm pork burgers were served with proceeds continuing the volunteer efforts in a myriad of programs for the community, state, Nation, and throughout the world. 

For more than 100 years, the International Lions Club has made a difference with the major focus on eyesight, diabetes awareness, and disaster relief. 

Membership is open for people who have a passion to serve others. For more information contact Shawna Dunlap, President.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694190790711.jpeg" alt="Natoma Lions Club Labor Day Sept. 4, 2023. Pictured are David Kertz, Sonya Robison, Marge Kertz, Luella Masters, Corrine Masters, Tessa Dunlap, Tabitha Dunlap,&nbsp;Shawna Dunlap, Callie Dunlap, Gail Griffin, Brad Murphy (Waldo Club), Terry Tucker, and Laah Tucker. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Natoma Lions Club Labor Day Sept. 4, 2023. Pictured are David Kertz, Sonya Robison, Marge Kertz, Luella Masters, Corrine Masters, Tessa Dunlap, Tabitha Dunlap,&nbsp;Shawna Dunlap, Callie Dunlap, Gail Griffin, Brad Murphy (Waldo Club), Terry Tucker, and Laah Tucker. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By LAAH TUCKER Natoma Lions ClubNATOMA — Natoma Lions Club continues a legacy in serving the community with 83 years of volunteer work. On Labor Day, members with volunteers served a mid-day cookout in the Natoma park's pavilion built by the Club decades ago. K&amp;W hamburgers and Pfortmiller Farm pork burgers were served with proceeds continuing the volunteer efforts in a myriad of programs for the community, state, Nation, and throughout the world. For more than 100 years, the International Lions Club has made a difference with the major focus on eyesight, diabetes awareness, and disaster relief. Membership is open for people who have a passion to serve others. For more information contact Shawna Dunlap, President.&nbsp;

Natoma Lions Club lives the legacy

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

&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:&nbsp; • Jesse Solorio, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Ashland&nbsp;

&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp; • Roberta Bradbury, Accountant II, Perry&nbsp;

Those celebrating 30 years:&nbsp; &nbsp;•&nbsp;Kenneth Stewart, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;Hill City&nbsp;

Those celebrating 25 years:&nbsp; • Lawrence Sage, Applications Developer III, Topeka • Bradley Stephens, Equipment Operator Senior, Holton &nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Zimmer, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Hays&nbsp;

Those celebrating 20 years:&nbsp; Dominic Escobar, Printing Service Coordinator, Topeka Bonnie Liscek, IT Project Manager, Lawrence&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Yohn, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Greensburg

Those celebrating 15 years: Kyle Halverson, Chief Geologist, Topeka&nbsp; Michael Letterman, Engineering Technician Senior, Chanute&nbsp;

Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp; Steven Cross, Professional Civil Engineer II, Blue Mound Shenee Kendall, Equipment Operator Senior, Murdock William Legge, Assistant Road Team Leader, Lawrence&nbsp; Emily Rowe, Administrative Specialist, Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in October. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:&nbsp; • Jesse Solorio, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Ashland&nbsp; &nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp; • Roberta Bradbury, Accountant II, Perry&nbsp;Those celebrating 30 years:&nbsp; &nbsp;•&nbsp;Kenneth Stewart, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;Hill City&nbsp; Those celebrating 25 years:&nbsp; • Lawrence Sage, Applications Developer III, Topeka • Bradley Stephens, Equipment Operator Senior, Holton &nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Zimmer, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Hays&nbsp; Those celebrating 20 years:&nbsp; Dominic Escobar, Printing Service Coordinator, Topeka Bonnie Liscek, IT Project Manager, Lawrence&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Yohn, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Greensburg Those celebrating 15 years: Kyle Halverson, Chief Geologist, Topeka&nbsp; Michael Letterman, Engineering Technician Senior, Chanute&nbsp; Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp; Steven Cross, Professional Civil Engineer II, Blue Mound Shenee Kendall, Equipment Operator Senior, Murdock William Legge, Assistant Road Team Leader, Lawrence&nbsp; Emily Rowe, Administrative Specialist, Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hays engineer celebrates 30 years with KDOT

MANHATTAN AND HAYS — The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/105/" target="_blank">K-State 105 initiative</a>&nbsp;is supporting small business development in northwest Kansas through a collaborative approach that leverages the expertise and small business connections of higher education and statewide and regional partners.

Two universities — Kansas State University and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/" target="_blank">Fort Hays State University</a>&nbsp;— as well as two K-State 105 partners —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/" target="_blank">NetWork Kansas</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://nwkeici.org/" target="_blank">Innovation Center</a>&nbsp;— are working together to expand the service offerings of the FHSU-led Small Business Development Center in northwest Kansas.

"Our K-State 105 initiative focuses on community engagement that&nbsp;drives&nbsp;economic impact and prosperity for Kansas and our 105 counties,"&nbsp;said Marshall Stewart, K-State senior vice president and chief of staff.&nbsp;"This type of innovative partnership that brings together higher education and economic development organizations across the state is exactly the type of work in which a next-generation land-grant university should engage.

"Through the partnership, K-State 105 is providing NetWork Kansas with funding that will go to resource partners and support entrepreneurship programming and technical assistance for small businesses in all 105 counties. 

"In this instance in northwest Kansas, NetWork Kansas will work with the Innovation Center to enhance the Kansas Small Business Development Center. The FHSU-led Kansas Small Business Development Center, or SBDC, operates as a network of eight regional economic development and business consulting centers that currently serve all 105 counties in the state.

"The businesses and communities of northwest Kansas will benefit greatly from this investment in professional expertise and better access to essential resources the SBDC and the Innovation Center will begin delivering in just a few short months," said Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University. "This initiative will ensure our best business and economic development experts are working every day to advance economic prosperity throughout the High Plains.

"The SBDC and Innovation Center partnership will serve a larger number of clients in northwest Kansas than each organization can serve individually. The partners ultimately expect to serve 432 clients, help start 16 new businesses and conduct 60 capital transactions in fiscal year 2024.

"This new partnership will allow us to collectively deliver more assistance than we have been able to do individually," said Greg Jordan, state director of the SBDC. "Small businesses in western Kansas will reap the benefit of us all working more closely together to help them start, grow and thrive."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695128066168.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsMANHATTAN AND HAYS — The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/105/" target="_blank">K-State 105 initiative</a>&nbsp;is supporting small business development in northwest Kansas through a collaborative approach that leverages the expertise and small business connections of higher education and statewide and regional partners. Two universities — Kansas State University and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/" target="_blank">Fort Hays State University</a>&nbsp;— as well as two K-State 105 partners —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/" target="_blank">NetWork Kansas</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://nwkeici.org/" target="_blank">Innovation Center</a>&nbsp;— are working together to expand the service offerings of the FHSU-led Small Business Development Center in northwest Kansas."Our K-State 105 initiative focuses on community engagement that&nbsp;drives&nbsp;economic impact and prosperity for Kansas and our 105 counties,"&nbsp;said Marshall Stewart, K-State senior vice president and chief of staff.&nbsp;"This type of innovative partnership that brings together higher education and economic development organizations across the state is exactly the type of work in which a next-generation land-grant university should engage."Through the partnership, K-State 105 is providing NetWork Kansas with funding that will go to resource partners and support entrepreneurship programming and technical assistance for small businesses in all 105 counties. "In this instance in northwest Kansas, NetWork Kansas will work with the Innovation Center to enhance the Kansas Small Business Development Center. The FHSU-led Kansas Small Business Development Center, or SBDC, operates as a network of eight regional economic development and business consulting centers that currently serve all 105 counties in the state."The businesses and communities of northwest Kansas will benefit greatly from this investment in professional expertise and better access to essential resources the SBDC and the Innovation Center will begin delivering in just a few short months," said Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University. "This initiative will ensure our best business and economic development experts are working every day to advance economic prosperity throughout the High Plains."The SBDC and Innovation Center partnership will serve a larger number of clients in northwest Kansas than each organization can serve individually. The partners ultimately expect to serve 432 clients, help start 16 new businesses and conduct 60 capital transactions in fiscal year 2024."This new partnership will allow us to collectively deliver more assistance than we have been able to do individually," said Greg Jordan, state director of the SBDC. "Small businesses in western Kansas will reap the benefit of us all working more closely together to help them start, grow and thrive.""Our shared efforts in the days ahead will contribute significantly to economic prosperity in northwest Kansas," said Scott Sproul, president and CEO of the Innovation Center."We congratulate Fort Hays State University, the Kansas Small Business Development Center and the Innovation Center on this impactful advancement and look forward to partnering further on K-State 105," said Erik Pedersen, president and chief operating officer of NetWork Kansas. "This initiative will work to integrate the resources on campus, as well as statewide, with Kansas small businesses in a way that will strengthen communities, create jobs and increase capital investment. In addition, intentional engagement will happen in critical-issue areas such as workforce, housing and child care."The K-State 105 funding that will support this initiative comes from the annual state investment that K-State 105 received for fiscal year 2024. K-State 105 is Kansas State University's answer to the call for a comprehensive economic growth and advancement solution for Kansas. The initiative leverages the statewide K-State Research and Extension network to deliver the full breadth of the university's collective knowledge and solution-driven innovation to every Kansan, right where they live and work. Additionally, K-State 105 forges the connections and partnerships that create access to additional expertise within other state institutions and agencies, nonprofits and corporations — all part of an effort to build additional capacities and strengths in each of the 105 counties in the state.

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