By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A year removed from leading the Thomas More Prep-Marian
football team to its best season in more than a decade, head coach Jay Harris is
stepping down.

The school announced Harris' resignation Tuesday.

In the four years that Harris led the Monarchs, they
finished with a record of 22-16.

The Monarchs earned back-to-back winning seasons in the 2020
and 2021 seasons — the first back-to-back winning seasons since 1989 and 1990.

The eight wins in 2021 was the most wins in a single season
since 2002. It also marked the first state quarterfinal appearance since the
2002 season.

Below is the press release from TMP-Marian.

[Hays, KS, Nov. 22, 2022] Jay Harris, the architect of TMP-Marian’s two most recent playoff football runs is
stepping down after four seasons at the helm. With a combined record of 22-16,
Harris led the Monarchs to the Regional championship in 2021.

“I have been privileged to work with great young men during
my time at TMP-Marian. I am grateful for all of the hard work that they have
put in during the off-season to become a better football team during the
season. I look forward to seeing what they can accomplish in years to come,”
said Harris.

Other highlights from Coach Harris’s tenure include having
26 All-League Honors earned by his players.

“Coach Harris always puts his players and students first,”
said TMP-Marian principal Chad Meitner. “He taught the game of football
incredibly well, but I can’t express my appreciation enough for his priority
and focus on teaching his players to be good men, husbands, and fathers.”

The search for a new head football coach has begun and
interested candidates can apply through tmp-m.org under the employment tab.

Located in Hays, Kan., Thomas More Prep-Marian is a Catholic
school serving grades 7-12. Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and
from countries around the world. The school was founded by the Capuchin
Franciscans as Hays Catholic College in 1908 and ultimately became Thomas More
Prep-Marian in 1981. The school continues to serve young people in the
traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669229093972.jpeg" alt="Harris / TMP-M photo" />
 <figcaption>Harris / TMP-M photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA year removed from leading the Thomas More Prep-Marian
football team to its best season in more than a decade, head coach Jay Harris is
stepping down.The school announced Harris' resignation Tuesday.In the four years that Harris led the Monarchs, they
finished with a record of 22-16.The Monarchs earned back-to-back winning seasons in the 2020
and 2021 seasons — the first back-to-back winning seasons since 1989 and 1990.The eight wins in 2021 was the most wins in a single season
since 2002. It also marked the first state quarterfinal appearance since the
2002 season.Below is the press release from TMP-Marian.[Hays, KS, Nov. 22, 2022] Jay Harris, the architect of TMP-Marian’s two most recent playoff football runs is
stepping down after four seasons at the helm. With a combined record of 22-16,
Harris led the Monarchs to the Regional championship in 2021.“I have been privileged to work with great young men during
my time at TMP-Marian. I am grateful for all of the hard work that they have
put in during the off-season to become a better football team during the
season. I look forward to seeing what they can accomplish in years to come,”
said Harris.Other highlights from Coach Harris’s tenure include having
26 All-League Honors earned by his players.“Coach Harris always puts his players and students first,”
said TMP-Marian principal Chad Meitner. “He taught the game of football
incredibly well, but I can’t express my appreciation enough for his priority
and focus on teaching his players to be good men, husbands, and fathers.”The search for a new head football coach has begun and
interested candidates can apply through tmp-m.org under the employment tab.Located in Hays, Kan., Thomas More Prep-Marian is a Catholic
school serving grades 7-12. Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and
from countries around the world. The school was founded by the Capuchin
Franciscans as Hays Catholic College in 1908 and ultimately became Thomas More
Prep-Marian in 1981. The school continues to serve young people in the
traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

🏈 Harris stepping down as TMP-M football coach

The Home for the Holidays event, sponsored by Plainville Chamber of Commerce, will start at noon Nov. 27.

Vendors will be at Township Hall starting at noon.

Visits with Santa will be from 3 to 5 p.m. at VFW with a gift of candy for the kiddos.

There will Sunflower Clydesdale Wagon Rides from 3 to 5 p.m.  through downtown Plainville.

Watch for Rudolph during the ride and sign up for a drawing at the end of 
the evening. Put down your name and where you spotted the red nose guy 
and be entered to win $100 in Chamber Bucks (Sponsored by Prairie 
Heritage and Mr. K's Foodtown).

A dine-in or carry-out soup dinner will be served
 by Plainville Saddle Club.&nbsp; Proceeds will go to the food pantry. Many local cooks will participate, 
including Prairie Heritage.

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

SubmittedThe Home for the Holidays event, sponsored by Plainville Chamber of Commerce, will start at noon Nov. 27.Vendors will be at Township Hall starting at noon. Visits with Santa will be from 3 to 5 p.m. at VFW with a gift of candy for the kiddos.There will Sunflower Clydesdale Wagon Rides from 3 to 5 p.m. through downtown Plainville.Watch for Rudolph during the ride and sign up for a drawing at the end of 
the evening. Put down your name and where you spotted the red nose guy 
and be entered to win $100 in Chamber Bucks (Sponsored by Prairie 
Heritage and Mr. K's Foodtown). A dine-in or carry-out soup dinner will be served
 by Plainville Saddle Club.&nbsp; Proceeds will go to the food pantry. Many local cooks will participate, 
including Prairie Heritage.A lighted parade will be at dark. Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Plainville Home for the Holidays set for Nov. 27 

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau Even as Thanksgiving draws near, it’s easy have a pessimistic perspective about the current state of the world. If you’re feeding a gathering of 10 people, a traditional turkey dinner will cost 20 percent more this year, according to an American Farm Bureau Federation survey. To be fair, wages are rising but at a much slower pace so while the survey’s results are real, 20 percent is a bit of an overstatement. Nonetheless, that pinch in your pocketbook is real, and it’s easy to let it spoil Thanksgiving. Our inclination to self-centeredness is partly to blame. We know exactly which rung on the ladder we occupy, and it’s all too easy to look up, see everyone a step or two higher and think we’re at the bottom. Our aspirations for tomorrow can easily lead to resentment today if we spend too much time looking up. We avoid looking down, not out of a feeling of superiority, but fear. Fear our footing isn’t solid enough to prevent slipping down a rung. Angst our only assets are material in nature. Worry our worth is based on ascending. These are universal causes of anxiety and alarm even if they’re only true in our minds. Just as our value isn’t set by a bank account, a meal’s quality isn’t dependent on its price. While accounting can make things look simple and tidy, it’s a poor approach to confine one’s life to a spreadsheet or the balance of a retirement account, especially this year. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on just how much we take gratitude for granted and how skewed our perspective can become. A day reserved for family and feast is surely a reason to be grateful, but it’s worth acknowledging there’s value in recognizing the obvious and near rather than waiting for some special, unexpected good luck to express appreciation. Is it not worth celebrating the mere fact we’re alive right now? When counting blessings isn’t that the logical place to begin? While not everyone has the opportunity to give thanks for the laughter of cousins playing while the adults cook or have those close conversations around the table after the meal is finished, the fact we’re here at all is notable. The funny thing about recognizing the incredibly simple aspects of life is it has a way of changing your outlook. A week or two from now, no one will recall if the turkey was dry, the mashed potatoes were a little lumpy, who brought what pie or even what everything cost. That’s the hope at least. It’s possible a curmudgeon or two will find their way to a few dinner tables, bringing with them dour assessments of the world and wanting to talk about unseemly topics like politics. Being thankful for life doesn’t mean we’re free from challenges. However, we get to choose how we approach those challenges. Thanksgiving is a good time to focus on all the things big and small we’re grateful for. It should also serve as a reminder to take stock of our gratitude throughout the year. If you start with the simple fact you’re grateful to be alive, you can probably continue counting your blessings until your family’s next feast.

"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/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau Even as Thanksgiving draws near, it’s easy have a pessimistic perspective about the current state of the world. If you’re feeding a gathering of 10 people, a traditional turkey dinner will cost 20 percent more this year, according to an American Farm Bureau Federation survey. To be fair, wages are rising but at a much slower pace so while the survey’s results are real, 20 percent is a bit of an overstatement. Nonetheless, that pinch in your pocketbook is real, and it’s easy to let it spoil Thanksgiving. Our inclination to self-centeredness is partly to blame. We know exactly which rung on the ladder we occupy, and it’s all too easy to look up, see everyone a step or two higher and think we’re at the bottom. Our aspirations for tomorrow can easily lead to resentment today if we spend too much time looking up. We avoid looking down, not out of a feeling of superiority, but fear. Fear our footing isn’t solid enough to prevent slipping down a rung. Angst our only assets are material in nature. Worry our worth is based on ascending. These are universal causes of anxiety and alarm even if they’re only true in our minds. Just as our value isn’t set by a bank account, a meal’s quality isn’t dependent on its price. While accounting can make things look simple and tidy, it’s a poor approach to confine one’s life to a spreadsheet or the balance of a retirement account, especially this year. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on just how much we take gratitude for granted and how skewed our perspective can become. A day reserved for family and feast is surely a reason to be grateful, but it’s worth acknowledging there’s value in recognizing the obvious and near rather than waiting for some special, unexpected good luck to express appreciation. Is it not worth celebrating the mere fact we’re alive right now? When counting blessings isn’t that the logical place to begin? While not everyone has the opportunity to give thanks for the laughter of cousins playing while the adults cook or have those close conversations around the table after the meal is finished, the fact we’re here at all is notable. The funny thing about recognizing the incredibly simple aspects of life is it has a way of changing your outlook. A week or two from now, no one will recall if the turkey was dry, the mashed potatoes were a little lumpy, who brought what pie or even what everything cost. That’s the hope at least. It’s possible a curmudgeon or two will find their way to a few dinner tables, bringing with them dour assessments of the world and wanting to talk about unseemly topics like politics. Being thankful for life doesn’t mean we’re free from challenges. However, we get to choose how we approach those challenges. Thanksgiving is a good time to focus on all the things big and small we’re grateful for. It should also serve as a reminder to take stock of our gratitude throughout the year. If you start with the simple fact you’re grateful to be alive, you can probably continue counting your blessings until your family’s next feast."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: Family and feast

<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/2022/11/1669142970133.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

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success&nbsp;in&nbsp;school. &nbsp;Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. &nbsp;This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bed. &nbsp;It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important. &nbsp;

Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. &nbsp;Exposing children to books from birth is a great way to aid their development. &nbsp;Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. &nbsp;As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills.

Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. &nbsp;However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware,&nbsp;actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. &nbsp;If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! &nbsp;Talk to them about what they are doing. &nbsp;If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. &nbsp;This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development&nbsp;by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.

While libraries are great and offer many programs to get&nbsp;children&nbsp;involved with&nbsp;books and&nbsp;reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building&nbsp;a library at home as well. &nbsp;Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child&nbsp;every month&nbsp;from birth to age five. &nbsp;They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are&nbsp;ageappropriate also. &nbsp;In Ellis&nbsp;and Barton&nbsp;<a></a>County you can go to the website imaginationlibrary.com to sign up. &nbsp;There are also lots of tips about reading to your child on their website. &nbsp;Be sure and check it out!

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667936438167.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success&nbsp;in&nbsp;school. &nbsp;Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. &nbsp;This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bed. &nbsp;It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important. &nbsp;Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. &nbsp;Exposing children to books from birth is a great way to aid their development. &nbsp;Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. &nbsp;As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills.Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. &nbsp;However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware,&nbsp;actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. &nbsp;If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! &nbsp;Talk to them about what they are doing. &nbsp;If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. &nbsp;This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development&nbsp;by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.While libraries are great and offer many programs to get&nbsp;children&nbsp;involved with&nbsp;books and&nbsp;reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building&nbsp;a library at home as well. &nbsp;Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child&nbsp;every month&nbsp;from birth to age five. &nbsp;They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are&nbsp;ageappropriate also. &nbsp;In Ellis&nbsp;and Barton&nbsp;<a></a>County you can go to the website imaginationlibrary.com to sign up. &nbsp;There are also lots of tips about reading to your child on their website. &nbsp;Be sure and check it out!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Reading a cornerstone of success for kids

THOMAS COUNTY — A northwest Kansas man was hospitalized after a Tuesday morning accident just north of Interstate 70.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Ford Ranger driven by Leo Palmgren, 87, Brewster, was southbound on K-184 just north of the I-70 junction. A 2005 Grand Caravan driven by 37-year-old Derek Laughlin, Norton, failed to stop at a stop sign and the two vehicles collided.

Palmgren was transported to Citizens Medical Center in Colby for treatment of a suspected minor injury. Laughlin was no injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, the KHP reported.

THOMAS COUNTY — A northwest Kansas man was hospitalized after a Tuesday morning accident just north of Interstate 70.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Ford Ranger driven by Leo Palmgren, 87, Brewster, was southbound on K-184 just north of the I-70 junction. A 2005 Grand Caravan driven by 37-year-old Derek Laughlin, Norton, failed to stop at a stop sign and the two vehicles collided.Palmgren was transported to Citizens Medical Center in Colby for treatment of a suspected minor injury. Laughlin was no injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, the KHP reported.

NW Kan. man hospitalized after Tuesday accident

With Thanksgiving upon us, we can’t help but reflect on those who have made Fort Hays State University what it is today. We are thankful for those who saw a need, had a vision, and worked tirelessly to enhance the education of our students. Leora B. Stroup built the nursing program at FHSU seventy years ago, and the program continues to grow in providing students with a world-class nursing education.&nbsp;

When Stroup was hired at Fort Hays State University by President Morton Cunningham and Dean E.R. McCartney to establish a training program for nurses, she approached the undertaking much like she did her life - with a commitment to offering her best.&nbsp;

Stroup was a major in the Army Nurse Corps with the Air Evacuation United during World War II and a graduate of Case Reserve University and Columbia University. She held pilot licensure and became the world’s first nursing instructor in air evacuation. As someone who had trained nurses in the Army, Stroup recognized the critical need to educate nursing professionals.&nbsp;

Stroup built the nursing program at FHSU from bare bones with one faculty member, herself, 16 students, three courses, and two on-campus classrooms. In contrast, when she retired in 1971, the program had more than ten faculty members and over 100 students.&nbsp;

During her final year at FHSU, the nursing program became a fully accredited baccalaureate program and celebrated its first 27 Bachelor of Science degree recipients at commencement. Up until that point, students had received nursing education degrees. When Stroup wrapped up her 19-year career at Fort Hays State in 1971, she was honored in receiving the Outstanding Faculty Woman honor.&nbsp;

In dedication to her contributions to Fort Hays State University, Stroup was once again honored in 1981 as she became the namesake of FHSU’s current home of nursing, Stroup Hall. From the nursing program’s humble beginnings on the top floor of Albertson Hall, Stroup’s devotion to Fort Hays State built the foundation for decades of nursing students.&nbsp;

While Stroup is no longer with us, her legacy continues through the lives she saved, those she touched through teaching, those who passed their skills along, and the lives of current nursing students at FHSU.

Almost 40 years after her passing, the nursing department at Fort Hays State University offers more programs and hands-on technology than Stroup may have ever dreamed of, including study at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels.&nbsp;

As technology continually advances and treatments adapt to changing times, so must the education for students entering the field. Today, Stroup Hall offers a simulation center with simulated hospital settings, including exam rooms, computerized manikins, computerized charting, and a surgical scrub area.&nbsp;

Taylor Ziegler, who completed her bachelor’s and doctorate degrees in nursing at Fort Hays State, says the well-rounded program prepared her for a fulfilling career as a nursing professional.&nbsp;

Ziegler, a 2013 and 2022 FHSU graduate, works with children impacted by mental illness. Inspired by the possibilities of the program, combined with the success of its graduates, Ziegler chose to pursue nursing to make a difference for those living with mental illness. Since graduating with her bachelors in 2013, Ziegler has worked in mental health nursing. She says her doctorate, which she received in May of 2022, will further her ability to serve the community.&nbsp;

Ziegler believes the nursing program at Fort Hays State, which has a 95% pass rate for its bachelor program and 100% for its doctorate program, offers the support needed for success in the field, which includes those considering work in rural areas.&nbsp;

She hopes students considering the nursing program at Fort Hays State University understand how impactful their presence could be in their communities.

In the spirit of giving thanks this holiday season, consider making a gift in support of nursing students at Fort Hays State University and in honor of Leora B. Stroup. Your contributions provide scholarship opportunities for future nursing professionals whose work directly affects our communities and carries forth the legacy of those who’ve come before us, like Stroup. To make a gift, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJMfKYvF9QOOjCMgHZKm-2BYsM213USdlUtGEYBD6vvMO7vvqk2_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemnUOWXxWmJUAQlp060vhrWvnJ3u9wuchqucmTPIc-2BB4wHekzTBVno7NM5MZEuE8iQwWrALCF11lF4O9ffSvvW1-2Bs-2FgV21kqIFHKvyL7-2F3qZdb4MiDUjUEfcsMm1bo936Yf-2BDyj1EROXF1vKIP1rQC6EcAwUos-2Fyqgs-2BfWrklQ2bFNbHzc2V4epr1kVYMQB-2FZnEI2-2BqQbpQwSgAfCvVhKE40nyyjV202FL4hrU5aP9Bjv1iZXbHK4RR93KoMqth3wrJrUlK9pjPG4pIn-2FfC6ZEAA-3D-3D">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>/donate&nbsp;or call 785-628-5620.

For more information about the nursing program at Fort Hays State, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJG9Kd9semsvRBIw7KROGqFTNiXM0zYl5EXYlNu5FXZyBGl9s_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemnUOWXxWmJUAQlp060vhrWvnJ3u9wuchqucmTPIc-2BB4wHekzTBVno7NM5MZEuE8iQwWrALCF11lF4O9ffSvvW11yucIcaH-2FN5OL2X-2BMSNQmqpQw3NAQ8ch78EtyJ68aOSoR02kiKk5XB-2F3v7rMVww8x-2FbNOMIpDZ2OXznmPAZiAf-2Fy1esqSBj-2BAm2v20pR1V84PCrRXo9GRp3gOcxCINpJ-2FgEwukT-2FzUHhU8h0jj68tdRzH1AItw9sBBglLWvIStojQjNI20UaixM3srE4h-2BS-2Fw-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/nursing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669050579140.png" alt="Leora B. Stroup" />
 <figcaption>Leora B. Stroup</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Foundation&nbsp;With Thanksgiving upon us, we can’t help but reflect on those who have made Fort Hays State University what it is today. We are thankful for those who saw a need, had a vision, and worked tirelessly to enhance the education of our students. Leora B. Stroup built the nursing program at FHSU seventy years ago, and the program continues to grow in providing students with a world-class nursing education.&nbsp;When Stroup was hired at Fort Hays State University by President Morton Cunningham and Dean E.R. McCartney to establish a training program for nurses, she approached the undertaking much like she did her life - with a commitment to offering her best.&nbsp;Stroup was a major in the Army Nurse Corps with the Air Evacuation United during World War II and a graduate of Case Reserve University and Columbia University. She held pilot licensure and became the world’s first nursing instructor in air evacuation. As someone who had trained nurses in the Army, Stroup recognized the critical need to educate nursing professionals.&nbsp;Stroup built the nursing program at FHSU from bare bones with one faculty member, herself, 16 students, three courses, and two on-campus classrooms. In contrast, when she retired in 1971, the program had more than ten faculty members and over 100 students.&nbsp;During her final year at FHSU, the nursing program became a fully accredited baccalaureate program and celebrated its first 27 Bachelor of Science degree recipients at commencement. Up until that point, students had received nursing education degrees. When Stroup wrapped up her 19-year career at Fort Hays State in 1971, she was honored in receiving the Outstanding Faculty Woman honor.&nbsp;In dedication to her contributions to Fort Hays State University, Stroup was once again honored in 1981 as she became the namesake of FHSU’s current home of nursing, Stroup Hall. From the nursing program’s humble beginnings on the top floor of Albertson Hall, Stroup’s devotion to Fort Hays State built the foundation for decades of nursing students.&nbsp;While Stroup is no longer with us, her legacy continues through the lives she saved, those she touched through teaching, those who passed their skills along, and the lives of current nursing students at FHSU.Almost 40 years after her passing, the nursing department at Fort Hays State University offers more programs and hands-on technology than Stroup may have ever dreamed of, including study at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels.&nbsp;As technology continually advances and treatments adapt to changing times, so must the education for students entering the field. Today, Stroup Hall offers a simulation center with simulated hospital settings, including exam rooms, computerized manikins, computerized charting, and a surgical scrub area.&nbsp;Taylor Ziegler, who completed her bachelor’s and doctorate degrees in nursing at Fort Hays State, says the well-rounded program prepared her for a fulfilling career as a nursing professional.&nbsp;Ziegler, a 2013 and 2022 FHSU graduate, works with children impacted by mental illness. Inspired by the possibilities of the program, combined with the success of its graduates, Ziegler chose to pursue nursing to make a difference for those living with mental illness. Since graduating with her bachelors in 2013, Ziegler has worked in mental health nursing. She says her doctorate, which she received in May of 2022, will further her ability to serve the community.&nbsp;Ziegler believes the nursing program at Fort Hays State, which has a 95% pass rate for its bachelor program and 100% for its doctorate program, offers the support needed for success in the field, which includes those considering work in rural areas.&nbsp;She hopes students considering the nursing program at Fort Hays State University understand how impactful their presence could be in their communities.In the spirit of giving thanks this holiday season, consider making a gift in support of nursing students at Fort Hays State University and in honor of Leora B. Stroup. Your contributions provide scholarship opportunities for future nursing professionals whose work directly affects our communities and carries forth the legacy of those who’ve come before us, like Stroup. To make a gift, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJMfKYvF9QOOjCMgHZKm-2BYsM213USdlUtGEYBD6vvMO7vvqk2_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemnUOWXxWmJUAQlp060vhrWvnJ3u9wuchqucmTPIc-2BB4wHekzTBVno7NM5MZEuE8iQwWrALCF11lF4O9ffSvvW1-2Bs-2FgV21kqIFHKvyL7-2F3qZdb4MiDUjUEfcsMm1bo936Yf-2BDyj1EROXF1vKIP1rQC6EcAwUos-2Fyqgs-2BfWrklQ2bFNbHzc2V4epr1kVYMQB-2FZnEI2-2BqQbpQwSgAfCvVhKE40nyyjV202FL4hrU5aP9Bjv1iZXbHK4RR93KoMqth3wrJrUlK9pjPG4pIn-2FfC6ZEAA-3D-3D">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>/donate&nbsp;or call 785-628-5620.For more information about the nursing program at Fort Hays State, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJG9Kd9semsvRBIw7KROGqFTNiXM0zYl5EXYlNu5FXZyBGl9s_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemnUOWXxWmJUAQlp060vhrWvnJ3u9wuchqucmTPIc-2BB4wHekzTBVno7NM5MZEuE8iQwWrALCF11lF4O9ffSvvW11yucIcaH-2FN5OL2X-2BMSNQmqpQw3NAQ8ch78EtyJ68aOSoR02kiKk5XB-2F3v7rMVww8x-2FbNOMIpDZ2OXznmPAZiAf-2Fy1esqSBj-2BAm2v20pR1V84PCrRXo9GRp3gOcxCINpJ-2FgEwukT-2FzUHhU8h0jj68tdRzH1AItw9sBBglLWvIStojQjNI20UaixM3srE4h-2BS-2Fw-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/nursing</a>.

FHSU giving thanks for the vision of Leora B. Stroup

ELLIS — On&nbsp;Tuesday, Ellis&nbsp;High School inducted&nbsp;eight&nbsp;juniors and&nbsp;nine&nbsp;seniors&nbsp;into the local chapter of the National Honor Society.&nbsp;Requirements to get into NHS&nbsp;are&nbsp;a&nbsp;3.5 GPA,&nbsp;leadership in&nbsp;seven organizations within the school or community,&nbsp;accumulation of&nbsp;40 hours of community service, and&nbsp;a positive&nbsp;character evaluation by teachers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society (from left):

Back Row: Makenna Kohl&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Jeff &amp; Emily Kohl;&nbsp;Dakota Metzler&nbsp;(Sr.), son of Jim &amp; Becky Metzler;&nbsp;William Crawford&nbsp;(Sr.), son of Bret &amp; Kimberly Andries&nbsp;and the late George Crawford III;&nbsp;Jarret Mader&nbsp;(Sr.), son of Michael &amp; Mindi Mader;&nbsp;Harlie Bittel&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Blake Bittel and Kristi Bittel;&nbsp;Mason Younger&nbsp;(Jr.), son of Aaron &amp; Jennifer Younger;&nbsp;Austin Carroll (Jr.), son of Matt &amp; Nicole Carroll;&nbsp;Emily James&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Wesley James and Alice Berens;&nbsp;Kaydawn Haag&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Ron &amp; Latisha Haag

Front Row: Hannah Schiel&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Jared &amp; Beth Schiel;&nbsp;Myah McCoy&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Casey &amp; Melanie McCoy;&nbsp;Emily Eck&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Mark &amp; Sarah Eck;&nbsp;Taylor Seibel&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Craig &amp; Becky Seibel;&nbsp;Ava Reed&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Darin &amp; April Reed;&nbsp;Kylee Pfeifer(Jr.), daughter of Brandon &amp; Chandra Pfeifer;&nbsp;Macy Eberle&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Cory &amp; Michele Eberle;&nbsp;Kayla Julian&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Ronald &amp; Amanda Julian

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669153412725.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 388ELLIS — On&nbsp;Tuesday, Ellis&nbsp;High School inducted&nbsp;eight&nbsp;juniors and&nbsp;nine&nbsp;seniors&nbsp;into the local chapter of the National Honor Society.&nbsp;Requirements to get into NHS&nbsp;are&nbsp;a&nbsp;3.5 GPA,&nbsp;leadership in&nbsp;seven organizations within the school or community,&nbsp;accumulation of&nbsp;40 hours of community service, and&nbsp;a positive&nbsp;character evaluation by teachers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society (from left):Back Row: Makenna Kohl&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Jeff &amp; Emily Kohl;&nbsp;Dakota Metzler&nbsp;(Sr.), son of Jim &amp; Becky Metzler;&nbsp;William Crawford&nbsp;(Sr.), son of Bret &amp; Kimberly Andries&nbsp;and the late George Crawford III;&nbsp;Jarret Mader&nbsp;(Sr.), son of Michael &amp; Mindi Mader;&nbsp;Harlie Bittel&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Blake Bittel and Kristi Bittel;&nbsp;Mason Younger&nbsp;(Jr.), son of Aaron &amp; Jennifer Younger;&nbsp;Austin Carroll (Jr.), son of Matt &amp; Nicole Carroll;&nbsp;Emily James&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Wesley James and Alice Berens;&nbsp;Kaydawn Haag&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Ron &amp; Latisha HaagFront Row: Hannah Schiel&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Jared &amp; Beth Schiel;&nbsp;Myah McCoy&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Casey &amp; Melanie McCoy;&nbsp;Emily Eck&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Mark &amp; Sarah Eck;&nbsp;Taylor Seibel&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Craig &amp; Becky Seibel;&nbsp;Ava Reed&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Darin &amp; April Reed;&nbsp;Kylee Pfeifer(Jr.), daughter of Brandon &amp; Chandra Pfeifer;&nbsp;Macy Eberle&nbsp;(Jr.), daughter of Cory &amp; Michele Eberle;&nbsp;Kayla Julian&nbsp;(Sr.), daughter of Ronald &amp; Amanda Julian

Ellis High inducts 17 into National Honor Society

When the pilgrims first came to America from England, they had a very difficult first year, and without the help of the Native Americans, would not have survived. After finally having a successful harvest the following year, they had a harvest feast to celebrate with their new neighbors. We continue this tradition today on the 4th&nbsp;Thursday of November with family and friends. Our feast today has much in common with the first Thanksgiving celebration with some major and minor differences. In the end though, the Thanksgiving feast is a chance to gather with family and friends and remember how much you have to be thankful for!&nbsp;

Turkeys are one of the few domesticated animals today that originated in North America, so they most likely were on the menu, but other fowl were probably prepared as well for the feast. Wild ducks, geese, and swans would have also been consumed that day. The turkey would have been wild rather than the domesticated one that you purchase at the local store. Its taste would be similar to the heritage turkeys that can still be ordered from specialty shops or the wild ones still roaming the fields today. Shellfish and varieties of fish would have also been offered since that was a convenient source of protein for a colony that was close to the sea. Historical records also show that the Wampanoag tribe brought an offering of 5 deer for the celebration, so the meal had a wide variety of what today we would consider the main course to choose from!&nbsp;

Vegetables were also very much present at the first Thanksgiving in 1621. After all, this was a celebration of the first successful harvest in the new world, but some may have looked different than how we eat them today. Of course there would be no green bean casserole on the table for another 300- plus years, and even though they grew and harvested maize (or corn), they would have made cornmeal out of it and created a mush or porridge to eat. Onions, beans carrots, and, lettuce would have graced the table similar to today. &nbsp;

The first version of pumpkin pie was probably consumed as well in 1621. Once again, it was there, but just different. The fledgling colony lacked the butter and flour to be able to make a pie crust, as well as the oven to bake the pie in. What they did instead was make custard by hollowing out the pumpkins and adding milk, honey and spices, and then placing the gourds in the hot ashes of the fire to roast creating the precursor to what we know as pumpkin pie today.&nbsp;

So whatever you are planning for your Thanksgiving meal, whether it is the “traditional” feast of today, or your favorite variation of it, I hope you have a blessed holiday spent with those you care about most. Happy Thanksgiving!&nbsp;

&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>When the pilgrims first came to America from England, they had a very difficult first year, and without the help of the Native Americans, would not have survived. After finally having a successful harvest the following year, they had a harvest feast to celebrate with their new neighbors. We continue this tradition today on the 4th&nbsp;Thursday of November with family and friends. Our feast today has much in common with the first Thanksgiving celebration with some major and minor differences. In the end though, the Thanksgiving feast is a chance to gather with family and friends and remember how much you have to be thankful for!&nbsp;Turkeys are one of the few domesticated animals today that originated in North America, so they most likely were on the menu, but other fowl were probably prepared as well for the feast. Wild ducks, geese, and swans would have also been consumed that day. The turkey would have been wild rather than the domesticated one that you purchase at the local store. Its taste would be similar to the heritage turkeys that can still be ordered from specialty shops or the wild ones still roaming the fields today. Shellfish and varieties of fish would have also been offered since that was a convenient source of protein for a colony that was close to the sea. Historical records also show that the Wampanoag tribe brought an offering of 5 deer for the celebration, so the meal had a wide variety of what today we would consider the main course to choose from!&nbsp;Vegetables were also very much present at the first Thanksgiving in 1621. After all, this was a celebration of the first successful harvest in the new world, but some may have looked different than how we eat them today. Of course there would be no green bean casserole on the table for another 300- plus years, and even though they grew and harvested maize (or corn), they would have made cornmeal out of it and created a mush or porridge to eat. Onions, beans carrots, and, lettuce would have graced the table similar to today. &nbsp;The first version of pumpkin pie was probably consumed as well in 1621. Once again, it was there, but just different. The fledgling colony lacked the butter and flour to be able to make a pie crust, as well as the oven to bake the pie in. What they did instead was make custard by hollowing out the pumpkins and adding milk, honey and spices, and then placing the gourds in the hot ashes of the fire to roast creating the precursor to what we know as pumpkin pie today.&nbsp;So whatever you are planning for your Thanksgiving meal, whether it is the “traditional” feast of today, or your favorite variation of it, I hope you have a blessed holiday spent with those you care about most. Happy Thanksgiving!&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Taking a further look at that Thanksgiving dinner

Commissioners opt to delay ruling on child care marketing money

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays Chamber of Commerce will receive a one-time cash influx of up to $45,000 for operating expenses next year from the city of Hays.

The vote was 3-1-1 with Commissioner Sandy Jacobs voting no and Commissioner Reese Barrick abstaining.&nbsp;

However, another agenda point, a request for $15,000 in city money to help match $30,000 from the local Schmidt Foundation for a new child care provider awareness campaign, was tabled until the Dec. 8 commission meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both presentations were made by Sara Wasinger, Hays Chamber president/CEO.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earnest discussion of the two requests lasted more than 90 minutes.

At one point, Wasinger became tearful as she responded to questioning from Commissioner Michael Berges, and she left the podium to compose herself.

Dana Stanton, Hays resident and&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/396c8a57-0f9c-42d6-8596-23281b2b835d">child care program director for the Norton-based Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center</a>, then went to the podium from her seat in the audience to continue answering questions about the marketing plan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e535ce3a-5687-48ce-8f07-2f6c9a2ab43b">Wasinger initially appealed for the one-time operations money</a> when the city was working on its 2023 budget allocations earlier this year.

The funds would be used&nbsp;"to help pay our staff a more equitable pay to be able to retain them. With four full-time staff on hand, it does give me the ability to spend more time off-campus to be able to work on issues such as child care and things of that nature," Wasinger told the commission in July.&nbsp;

Commissioners later decided the request would not be part of the general fund's outside agencies monies, and instead, if approved at some point, should come from the commission's reserve fund.&nbsp;

With three boys of his own and a wife who also works, Berges said he has been "acutely aware" of the shortage of child care workers.&nbsp;

Wasinger said several civic support groups and businesses are also considering making donations to the awareness campaign.&nbsp;

"This is an unfunded project that our community is working on," Wasinger noted. She estimated more than $20,000 worth of chamber staff time has been used this year working on child care needs.&nbsp;

"[Hays Chamber is] doing our very best job to be as responsible as possible — seeking grant funds — whether that be from a national perspective, state perspective or regional perspective. And it is our desire to get the business community more involved.&nbsp;

"... Going back to our businesses to ask for them to further support financially a cause such as this when we are implementing a 10 percent dues increase for next year does make things a little bit challenging."

The Ellis County Commission has already approved a similar $15,000 appeal. 

Berges was troubled by the two requests. 

"You're asking for monies from the city for the chamber and it's not within a vacuum. Because within the chamber's [$45,000] request to us, one of the top things was facilitating a child care task force.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"...&nbsp;To me [the chamber] can kind of use that money where they need to, [including] grant matches. As we've discussed, it's kind of more for operations and hiring somebody and those kind of things to help your budget. But to me, it can also be used to match grants," he said.&nbsp;

Berges had another concern he addressed to Wasinger.

"You're taking this [child care] task on but you run the chamber. ... In a way, these [requested] funds are being used for advertisement to hire somebody. But essentially, it's you that's running everything.&nbsp;

"That seems again, to really mix roles on what these two different things are supposed to do. But right now it seems it's all on your shoulders," Berges said as he gestured toward Wasinger standing at the podium.

"We have a very wonderful task force that's putting in a lot of time from a management standpoint," Wasinger began in response.&nbsp;

She paused for a moment, apologized for getting emotional, and left the podium.

At that point, Stanton came forward to continue the conversation until Wasinger returned.

"Child care is an emotional issue," interjected Sandy Jacobs, city commissioner.&nbsp;

The Hays Chamber has been at the forefront of finding&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/69b3e008-965c-4a97-93c5-1d18461550ce">child care solutions </a>since forming a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3bf41c0b-99d4-4aaa-adf3-1445ac87477e">task force</a> last September.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After more discussion, the commission directed Wasinger to
continue soliciting more matching grants from local businesses and the
community. They postponed a vote on the city’s matching grant until the
December 8 meeting.

Kim Rupp, finance director, said funds for the&nbsp;$45,000 request will be encumbered, but will not be paid until the&nbsp;request is made. If the request is less than the $45,000, the requested amount is&nbsp;what will be paid.

In other business, commissioners approved fee increases at both the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course and the Hays Aquatic Park. The current rates for both are among the lowest in Kansas according to Jeff Boyle, parks director.

The commission approved flat fee rates&nbsp;of $3.50 for Wilson Pool and $4.50 for the Hays Aquatic Park for the 2023 swim&nbsp;season.

The increases will help narrow the gap between revenue and operating expenses. Boyle and the commissioners all pointed out the golf course and the municipal swimming pool are quality of life amenities and not expected to make a profit for the city.

The increased trail fees will allow the&nbsp;city to begin a project to replace the front 9, hole 10, and hole 18 cart paths.

The commission also approved the low&nbsp; bid from J Corp, Hays, of $629,573 for waterline improvements in 2023. The bid was well below the engineer's estimate.&nbsp;

The 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) listed these water main projects to be funded by Water Capital with the following estimates of cost:

• 23rd from Hall to Elm - $193,000 • 24th from Hall to Canal - $192,000 • Cottonwood from 27th to 29th - $310,000 Total CIP budget estimate - $776,000 Engineer’s estimate - $903,644

In add-on comments, Commissioner Barrick said he attended the Kansas Museum Association meeting and commended the&nbsp;Ellis County Historical Society (ECHS) for being awarded a grant to scan past Hays Daily&nbsp;News articles for future use.&nbsp;ECHS also received an award for graphic design for&nbsp;one of their traveling exhibits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669074165536.jpeg" alt="Sara Wasinger, Hays Chamber president/CEO, speaks to the Hays city commission on Nov. 10. She asked for $15,000 in matching city funding for a child care provider awareness campaign as well as a one-time $45,000 operations grant for the chamber. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Sara Wasinger, Hays Chamber president/CEO, speaks to the Hays city commission on Nov. 10. She asked for $15,000 in matching city funding for a child care provider awareness campaign as well as a one-time $45,000 operations grant for the chamber. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Commissioners opt to delay ruling on child care marketing money</h2>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Chamber of Commerce will receive a one-time cash influx of up to $45,000 for operating expenses next year from the city of Hays.The vote was 3-1-1 with Commissioner Sandy Jacobs voting no and Commissioner Reese Barrick abstaining.&nbsp;However, another agenda point, a request for $15,000 in city money to help match $30,000 from the local Schmidt Foundation for a new child care provider awareness campaign, was tabled until the Dec. 8 commission meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both presentations were made by Sara Wasinger, Hays Chamber president/CEO.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669046767838.jpeg" alt="Wasinger takes a break to compose herself during questioning by city commissioners about a child care provider awareness campaign funding request. Dana Stanton, NWKEIC child care program director, then stepped up to the podium from the audience to answer questions.&nbsp; (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Wasinger takes a break to compose herself during questioning by city commissioners about a child care provider awareness campaign funding request. Dana Stanton, NWKEIC child care program director, then stepped up to the podium from the audience to answer questions.&nbsp; (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>Earnest discussion of the two requests lasted more than 90 minutes.At one point, Wasinger became tearful as she responded to questioning from Commissioner Michael Berges, and she left the podium to compose herself.Dana Stanton, Hays resident and&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/396c8a57-0f9c-42d6-8596-23281b2b835d">child care program director for the Norton-based Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center</a>, then went to the podium from her seat in the audience to continue answering questions about the marketing plan.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e535ce3a-5687-48ce-8f07-2f6c9a2ab43b">Wasinger initially appealed for the one-time operations money</a> when the city was working on its 2023 budget allocations earlier this year.The funds would be used&nbsp;"to help pay our staff a more equitable pay to be able to retain them. With four full-time staff on hand, it does give me the ability to spend more time off-campus to be able to work on issues such as child care and things of that nature," Wasinger told the commission in July.&nbsp;Commissioners later decided the request would not be part of the general fund's outside agencies monies, and instead, if approved at some point, should come from the commission's reserve fund.&nbsp;With three boys of his own and a wife who also works, Berges said he has been "acutely aware" of the shortage of child care workers.&nbsp;Wasinger said several civic support groups and businesses are also considering making donations to the awareness campaign.&nbsp;"This is an unfunded project that our community is working on," Wasinger noted. She estimated more than $20,000 worth of chamber staff time has been used this year working on child care needs.&nbsp;"[Hays Chamber is] doing our very best job to be as responsible as possible — seeking grant funds — whether that be from a national perspective, state perspective or regional perspective. And it is our desire to get the business community more involved.&nbsp;"... Going back to our businesses to ask for them to further support financially a cause such as this when we are implementing a 10 percent dues increase for next year does make things a little bit challenging."The Ellis County Commission has already approved a similar $15,000 appeal. Berges was troubled by the two requests. "You're asking for monies from the city for the chamber and it's not within a vacuum. Because within the chamber's [$45,000] request to us, one of the top things was facilitating a child care task force.&nbsp;&nbsp;"...&nbsp;To me [the chamber] can kind of use that money where they need to, [including] grant matches. As we've discussed, it's kind of more for operations and hiring somebody and those kind of things to help your budget. But to me, it can also be used to match grants," he said.&nbsp;Berges had another concern he addressed to Wasinger."You're taking this [child care] task on but you run the chamber. ... In a way, these [requested] funds are being used for advertisement to hire somebody. But essentially, it's you that's running everything.&nbsp;"That seems again, to really mix roles on what these two different things are supposed to do. But right now it seems it's all on your shoulders," Berges said as he gestured toward Wasinger standing at the podium."We have a very wonderful task force that's putting in a lot of time from a management standpoint," Wasinger began in response.&nbsp;She paused for a moment, apologized for getting emotional, and left the podium.At that point, Stanton came forward to continue the conversation until Wasinger returned.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/6B6ASnJd-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Wasinger Berges Childcare Funds Request" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>"Child care is an emotional issue," interjected Sandy Jacobs, city commissioner.&nbsp;The Hays Chamber has been at the forefront of finding&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/69b3e008-965c-4a97-93c5-1d18461550ce">child care solutions </a>since forming a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3bf41c0b-99d4-4aaa-adf3-1445ac87477e">task force</a> last September.&nbsp;&nbsp;After more discussion, the commission directed Wasinger to
continue soliciting more matching grants from local businesses and the
community. They postponed a vote on the city’s matching grant until the
December 8 meeting.Kim Rupp, finance director, said funds for the&nbsp;$45,000 request will be encumbered, but will not be paid until the&nbsp;request is made. If the request is less than the $45,000, the requested amount is&nbsp;what will be paid.In other business, commissioners approved fee increases at both the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course and the Hays Aquatic Park. The current rates for both are among the lowest in Kansas according to Jeff Boyle, parks director.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669084593595.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669085513188.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The commission approved flat fee rates&nbsp;of $3.50 for Wilson Pool and $4.50 for the Hays Aquatic Park for the 2023 swim&nbsp;season.The increases will help narrow the gap between revenue and operating expenses. Boyle and the commissioners all pointed out the golf course and the municipal swimming pool are quality of life amenities and not expected to make a profit for the city.The increased trail fees will allow the&nbsp;city to begin a project to replace the front 9, hole 10, and hole 18 cart paths.The commission also approved the low&nbsp; bid from J Corp, Hays, of $629,573 for waterline improvements in 2023. The bid was well below the engineer's estimate.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669083726922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) listed these water main projects to be funded by Water Capital with the following estimates of cost:• 23rd from Hall to Elm - $193,000 • 24th from Hall to Canal - $192,000 • Cottonwood from 27th to 29th - $310,000 Total CIP budget estimate - $776,000 Engineer’s estimate - $903,644 In add-on comments, Commissioner Barrick said he attended the Kansas Museum Association meeting and commended the&nbsp;Ellis County Historical Society (ECHS) for being awarded a grant to scan past Hays Daily&nbsp;News articles for future use.&nbsp;ECHS also received an award for graphic design for&nbsp;one of their traveling exhibits.

🎥 Hays commission approves chamber funding, defers on child care initiative

Michael Thompson of Almena has been selected as the recipient of the 2022 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers, ranchers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife resources in their care.&nbsp;

In&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthGENtMaX706EE89GDme1es5I0XQDds4Da7seBcvUbeeoo9-2BEc5ByaRQUHKZQGt2cP-2Fwx1MW8qh7QwsXaNn-2BbKkSoR1sO9iAMdNwxox-2BmTZdSR3iCfzI8T8Jgb1UtVakZyQ-3D-3DC28t_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AKdHkBiVluqYT1MOhCHdVMQWqitwBJfu5lh2obsKIn6g-2BCCRqHILXrrrmY-2F-2BxfzLLjyb2KYgi52y1rXGAIyyzXftL65EjfNqOP1gziHtMjN4RnNw60ok0bdjSGn3HKNdFPasdIlZRpbmCM-2Few1VHKqXDMbQ6py6z-2BCM-2B1vtVCgJ1">Kansas</a>&nbsp;the award is presented annually by&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tu10dIH13bXsbEER7PyikDm-2Bai-2BMzPN27xTIsB5pnGITwbrU_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AA32Si6XQ-2B6FFH0iabaF-2Fp1TfmY-2Bi2q7dYRlA0lUngs9Niz6Hz7g-2BBli61-2BZPdaN71dKFYKfTVwSLzchGvGaK2JwKuKOlRIdqKBw64KG5ZNBwkHaACTp-2Bre-2FEPbXDtY8pb1MB643phl48lSZdM266krEFq9b2hVm2T8ymXfDqkkP">Sand County Foundation</a>&nbsp;and national sponsor&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthJZjV-2B-2BoBMwgWKaYjFP7WN4-3DQjYB_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AJCF3pxzXnAhuJZkz2zKAJVS1Ms-2FJgpOCmjrLUqyu-2BlySC4rpEAjN6fWxuyMLMD5vBm-2Bp0zBY4qwwQUaj2EeWh7R2HazRLy0QGpKpXNhLlhohLTtI-2BxfmSJUaxX2IamIXMUqPTUx3jtzpbI0Ior08NFo7VdzkzX6MNe06zCKR4y4">American Farmland Trust</a>, with state partners:&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0TlAh-2Fwkr9O-2FK9u-2BV2PzMW8ksV8YQtSwUDFFYOR-2BNK9bbkHdN_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AHwa8puAsPrDZrytpZxbia7BdlZ-2Fq8YsMZIOoq7h0Nx3c20-2BSoD4qEK0SyCBhFfCSpBwUVdrhx8Cn2f-2BDQJafr3LAIME9353VK9okQA0cqmI3OzbsncOEnORhATqKqRbNDAB-2B7rAqw8o0w0RJSi98EASxYG39s2UJat55kJt6G-2Bb">Kansas Association of Conservation Districts</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0ThlfF9uAiI46EhM-2BCWEvU2Zvco6lW3OMrNPzqzlv0fvNgSWN_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AJfBdBr6qQ2D1MfR0pTa0Q6tnc5IGyTpDfvJydz9-2Bg7Z1r0hV9k-2BmnUH9gnRTDYbOFjObSaCiKq5OEuAF9qYReXI-2BJr4mzr0-2FqRpsVTttwdIdh22R2Y-2F6ZWxEFpteDGdHPw71iYAzsWYYxrzMUt3-2FY20sgTs2BVZd5B61RTvbjao">Ranchland Trust of Kansas</a>.

Thompson grows crops and raises beef cattle at Thompson Farm and Ranch in Norton County with his father Richard, and brother Brian. He’s a vocal advocate for soil stewardship among other farmers and ranchers. He was announced as the recipient of the award at the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts’ 78th&nbsp;Annual Convention in Wichita, and receives $10,000 and a crystal award for being selected.

“Michael’s passion for conservation and improving soil health serves as an inspiration to farmers and ranchers across Kansas,” said Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture. “His commitment to sharing his experience and knowledge with others makes him very deserving of the honor of being a Leopold Conservation Award winner.”

“Michael’s passion and drive as a leader in the soil health movement is contagious. He is always learning and sharing his knowledge and experiences with others,” said Dan Meyerhoff, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Executive Director. “Michael exemplifies the extraordinary commitment celebrated by the Leopold Conservation Award.”

“Congratulations to Michael Thompson regarding his selection as the 2022 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient,” said Chelsea Good, Ranchland Trust of Kansas Chair of the Board. “RTK is pleased to recognize great advocates for and practitioners of conservation, such as Michael Thompson.”

“These award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today. Their dedication to conservation shows how individuals can improve the health of the land while producing food and fiber,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO.

“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of Michael Thompson,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”

Earlier this year, Kansas landowners were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders. Among the many outstanding Kansas landowners nominated for the award were finalists: Ray and Susan Flickner of Wichita, Kevin Karr of Emporia, and Glenn and Barbara Walker of Brookville.

The first Kansas Leopold Conservation Award was presented to Sproul Ranch of Sedan in 2015. Last year’s recipient was Dwane Roth of Holcomb. View all recipients at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0TpqxAKhEG23maTXtkxFawXlWzQWlDabdWKnUPA1qRWNc7DBzB5JBLxx6CMk5-2BVeTnw-3D-3D02U0_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AM2Chlz6s-2BlA8-2F14KkLph2OWH3HFiH76E6xwOHlVaRCvXz4kMLBl4e9k7a7gGeyUjuHqBsLorKwV0-2FrlWdes9JOlaQAyKUN-2F1yPfPfhMNM7x9EHedS6IfA8g4ud2yDrzvQJt1EA7J0v-2BArruCR3HtIOS38Td1fnh8Rw0UNCA44ys">www.SandCountyFoundation.org/Kansas</a>

The Leopold Conservation Award in Kansas is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, Ranchland Trust of Kansas, Sand County Foundation, Farm Credit Associations of Kansas, ITC Great Plains, Evergy, Kansas Department of Agriculture (Division of Conservation), Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Forest Service, McDonald’s, The Nature Conservancy, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and a Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient.

In his influential 1949 book,&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthGENtMaX706EE89GDme1es5GrDM1b-2FZiEdSGqyPVwiMnnKCK8hMQ2l-2FS0PaeoC6WdA-3D-3DRq0Z_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AOtTJtujVguBmvb1D2IBVwNBemh088LhWb7yz83OIBQ-2Bn15PUSmN3zGQH0bClm6H-2F3xdzJksTtX-2FzcmEH-2FtRCixv-2BU-2FfZEnVTX-2Bf0nU3Piqi6qifvIddKbX4uuEL3YP4LCabbRXNzf97gXV9hzgzYPlPFa3RvZUPrdPaAj0c8A6-2F">A Sand County Almanac</a>, Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.”

Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 24 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tpr6xNhpzmLJpqwqrRiSYSlnTnPI7aaF-2FPGfuoj2SYxXYY8BnU-2FL0EynhQUdYclEwQ-3D-3DXDrQ_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7ADzOjqCuDPM0M-2BzYiOVYIBw9gpmFdLjrpruSyKttfq4xwTs3gTWkfaNf-2B-2Bz0XRsMLJiIIGMgorRNOM7XXvZx6mV45C6DW8WxWFv0FRNFSK9W03k7rjJITEpFzN-2BPZDPEVp9JTVpKKYyPvbaWdy-2B0-2Be-2BtvUdt9DCL28LM0aAhwpcX">www.leopoldconservationaward.org</a>.&nbsp;

Like the five generations before him, Michael Thompson grew up knowing the challenges of farming and ranching in northwest Kansas. There were crop failures brought on by harsh weather. Michael also remembers the scars left by tillage on semi-arid soil.

As young adults, Michael and his brother Brian were told there wasn’t a future for them at Thompson Farm &amp; Ranch. However, the avid learner and experimenter knew there had to be a different (and more profitable) way to grow crops and raise cattle.

Michael began researching land stewardship and soil improvement. He knew his family’s land could no longer afford to lose more topsoil from wind and rain. After seeking out peer groups across Kansas, he soon saw the benefits of growing a diverse rotation of cover crops, using no-till practices and rotational grazing.

Keeping farm fields covered with growing vegetation year-round would infiltrate water instead of letting it wash away. Michael admits he was no fan of cattle in his youth, but he’s come to see their role in a holistic, regenerative system. Their manure delivers nutrients to native rangeland and his corn, soybean, and wheat fields.

He started small with a few acres of cover crops and some electric fencing. Grazing cover crops provided another source of feed for beef cattle, and provided an unexpected benefit of giving existing pastures and rangeland more time to rest and grow between grazings. The extra rest produced a more robust and diverse stand of native grass species.

Growing cover crops coupled with a no-till system improved earthworm activity and soil life. An increase in nutrient cycling allowed for less fertilizer use. Improved water infiltration meant crops and forage grew even in years of drought.

Ultimately, rebuilding worn-out soils proved essential in allowing Michael and Brian to return home to farm with their father, Richard.

Michael shares his knowledge and lessons learned with other farmers and ranchers. He’s a founding member and chairman of the Kansas Soil Health Alliance, president of No-till on the Plains, and a supervisor on the Norton County Conservation District Board.

Michael, who worked as a kindergarten teacher for a dozen years before returning to the farm, now shares his conservation experience with thousands of people each year at local, statewide, regional and international conferences and field days.

He also serves as a mentor in the Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy (WRAPS) program that connects Kansas farmers and ranchers to improve water quality. He encourages his mentees to examine what goes on underground. In extreme droughts or after heavy rains, Michael often digs below ground to examine root structure and worm channels. He teaches others that what happens deep within soil determines what grows above ground, and good soil management is key to enduring the weather extremes.

Despite being part of the National Association of Conservation Districts’ Soil Health Champions Network, Michael doesn’t claim to be an expert. He humbly claims the path to lasting success is often through failure. His peers say this makes him an authentic, accessible, and passionate voice for conservation.

Michael exemplifies the leadership qualities needed in agriculture to better steward its greatest resource, the soil.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669142678681.jpeg" alt="Michael Thompson / Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Thompson / Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Sand County FoundationMichael Thompson of Almena has been selected as the recipient of the 2022 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award.Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers, ranchers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife resources in their care.&nbsp;In&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthGENtMaX706EE89GDme1es5I0XQDds4Da7seBcvUbeeoo9-2BEc5ByaRQUHKZQGt2cP-2Fwx1MW8qh7QwsXaNn-2BbKkSoR1sO9iAMdNwxox-2BmTZdSR3iCfzI8T8Jgb1UtVakZyQ-3D-3DC28t_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AKdHkBiVluqYT1MOhCHdVMQWqitwBJfu5lh2obsKIn6g-2BCCRqHILXrrrmY-2F-2BxfzLLjyb2KYgi52y1rXGAIyyzXftL65EjfNqOP1gziHtMjN4RnNw60ok0bdjSGn3HKNdFPasdIlZRpbmCM-2Few1VHKqXDMbQ6py6z-2BCM-2B1vtVCgJ1">Kansas</a>&nbsp;the award is presented annually by&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tu10dIH13bXsbEER7PyikDm-2Bai-2BMzPN27xTIsB5pnGITwbrU_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AA32Si6XQ-2B6FFH0iabaF-2Fp1TfmY-2Bi2q7dYRlA0lUngs9Niz6Hz7g-2BBli61-2BZPdaN71dKFYKfTVwSLzchGvGaK2JwKuKOlRIdqKBw64KG5ZNBwkHaACTp-2Bre-2FEPbXDtY8pb1MB643phl48lSZdM266krEFq9b2hVm2T8ymXfDqkkP">Sand County Foundation</a>&nbsp;and national sponsor&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthJZjV-2B-2BoBMwgWKaYjFP7WN4-3DQjYB_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AJCF3pxzXnAhuJZkz2zKAJVS1Ms-2FJgpOCmjrLUqyu-2BlySC4rpEAjN6fWxuyMLMD5vBm-2Bp0zBY4qwwQUaj2EeWh7R2HazRLy0QGpKpXNhLlhohLTtI-2BxfmSJUaxX2IamIXMUqPTUx3jtzpbI0Ior08NFo7VdzkzX6MNe06zCKR4y4">American Farmland Trust</a>, with state partners:&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0TlAh-2Fwkr9O-2FK9u-2BV2PzMW8ksV8YQtSwUDFFYOR-2BNK9bbkHdN_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AHwa8puAsPrDZrytpZxbia7BdlZ-2Fq8YsMZIOoq7h0Nx3c20-2BSoD4qEK0SyCBhFfCSpBwUVdrhx8Cn2f-2BDQJafr3LAIME9353VK9okQA0cqmI3OzbsncOEnORhATqKqRbNDAB-2B7rAqw8o0w0RJSi98EASxYG39s2UJat55kJt6G-2Bb">Kansas Association of Conservation Districts</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0ThlfF9uAiI46EhM-2BCWEvU2Zvco6lW3OMrNPzqzlv0fvNgSWN_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AJfBdBr6qQ2D1MfR0pTa0Q6tnc5IGyTpDfvJydz9-2Bg7Z1r0hV9k-2BmnUH9gnRTDYbOFjObSaCiKq5OEuAF9qYReXI-2BJr4mzr0-2FqRpsVTttwdIdh22R2Y-2F6ZWxEFpteDGdHPw71iYAzsWYYxrzMUt3-2FY20sgTs2BVZd5B61RTvbjao">Ranchland Trust of Kansas</a>.Thompson grows crops and raises beef cattle at Thompson Farm and Ranch in Norton County with his father Richard, and brother Brian. He’s a vocal advocate for soil stewardship among other farmers and ranchers. He was announced as the recipient of the award at the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts’ 78th&nbsp;Annual Convention in Wichita, and receives $10,000 and a crystal award for being selected.“Michael’s passion for conservation and improving soil health serves as an inspiration to farmers and ranchers across Kansas,” said Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture. “His commitment to sharing his experience and knowledge with others makes him very deserving of the honor of being a Leopold Conservation Award winner.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659375906072.png" alt="Michael Thompson Family of Almena. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Thompson Family of Almena. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“Michael’s passion and drive as a leader in the soil health movement is contagious. He is always learning and sharing his knowledge and experiences with others,” said Dan Meyerhoff, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Executive Director. “Michael exemplifies the extraordinary commitment celebrated by the Leopold Conservation Award.”“Congratulations to Michael Thompson regarding his selection as the 2022 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient,” said Chelsea Good, Ranchland Trust of Kansas Chair of the Board. “RTK is pleased to recognize great advocates for and practitioners of conservation, such as Michael Thompson.”“These award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today. Their dedication to conservation shows how individuals can improve the health of the land while producing food and fiber,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO.“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of Michael Thompson,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”Earlier this year, Kansas landowners were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders. Among the many outstanding Kansas landowners nominated for the award were finalists: Ray and Susan Flickner of Wichita, Kevin Karr of Emporia, and Glenn and Barbara Walker of Brookville.The first Kansas Leopold Conservation Award was presented to Sproul Ranch of Sedan in 2015. Last year’s recipient was Dwane Roth of Holcomb. View all recipients at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0TpqxAKhEG23maTXtkxFawXlWzQWlDabdWKnUPA1qRWNc7DBzB5JBLxx6CMk5-2BVeTnw-3D-3D02U0_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AM2Chlz6s-2BlA8-2F14KkLph2OWH3HFiH76E6xwOHlVaRCvXz4kMLBl4e9k7a7gGeyUjuHqBsLorKwV0-2FrlWdes9JOlaQAyKUN-2F1yPfPfhMNM7x9EHedS6IfA8g4ud2yDrzvQJt1EA7J0v-2BArruCR3HtIOS38Td1fnh8Rw0UNCA44ys">www.SandCountyFoundation.org/Kansas</a>The Leopold Conservation Award in Kansas is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, Ranchland Trust of Kansas, Sand County Foundation, Farm Credit Associations of Kansas, ITC Great Plains, Evergy, Kansas Department of Agriculture (Division of Conservation), Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Forest Service, McDonald’s, The Nature Conservancy, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and a Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient.In his influential 1949 book,&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthGENtMaX706EE89GDme1es5GrDM1b-2FZiEdSGqyPVwiMnnKCK8hMQ2l-2FS0PaeoC6WdA-3D-3DRq0Z_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7AOtTJtujVguBmvb1D2IBVwNBemh088LhWb7yz83OIBQ-2Bn15PUSmN3zGQH0bClm6H-2F3xdzJksTtX-2FzcmEH-2FtRCixv-2BU-2FfZEnVTX-2Bf0nU3Piqi6qifvIddKbX4uuEL3YP4LCabbRXNzf97gXV9hzgzYPlPFa3RvZUPrdPaAj0c8A6-2F">A Sand County Almanac</a>, Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.”Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 24 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tpr6xNhpzmLJpqwqrRiSYSlnTnPI7aaF-2FPGfuoj2SYxXYY8BnU-2FL0EynhQUdYclEwQ-3D-3DXDrQ_nenbBkpW0gHgi3p4rgiqYHmwnctgrlfv9QR4fRaoVn-2FoNEDKlChzRgXTjF3bzgpUvQbVuZu-2Bc4d-2FM1tYyskEPMbNezZd3WBTnFx66VGpJKuhFGeUl4Xfdz21H4m1gqIe47naefSXU7p8a7gSULCfFYy-2B9SV6MRl3kFVyNIqMD5N3UkWwujpkX66jDjG6wOKLrq7CbDmEpcfAUvkvPW-2B7ADzOjqCuDPM0M-2BzYiOVYIBw9gpmFdLjrpruSyKttfq4xwTs3gTWkfaNf-2B-2Bz0XRsMLJiIIGMgorRNOM7XXvZx6mV45C6DW8WxWFv0FRNFSK9W03k7rjJITEpFzN-2BPZDPEVp9JTVpKKYyPvbaWdy-2B0-2Be-2BtvUdt9DCL28LM0aAhwpcX">www.leopoldconservationaward.org</a>.&nbsp;<h2>ABOUT MICHAEL THOMPSON</h2>Like the five generations before him, Michael Thompson grew up knowing the challenges of farming and ranching in northwest Kansas. There were crop failures brought on by harsh weather. Michael also remembers the scars left by tillage on semi-arid soil.As young adults, Michael and his brother Brian were told there wasn’t a future for them at Thompson Farm &amp; Ranch. However, the avid learner and experimenter knew there had to be a different (and more profitable) way to grow crops and raise cattle.Michael began researching land stewardship and soil improvement. He knew his family’s land could no longer afford to lose more topsoil from wind and rain. After seeking out peer groups across Kansas, he soon saw the benefits of growing a diverse rotation of cover crops, using no-till practices and rotational grazing.Keeping farm fields covered with growing vegetation year-round would infiltrate water instead of letting it wash away. Michael admits he was no fan of cattle in his youth, but he’s come to see their role in a holistic, regenerative system. Their manure delivers nutrients to native rangeland and his corn, soybean, and wheat fields.He started small with a few acres of cover crops and some electric fencing. Grazing cover crops provided another source of feed for beef cattle, and provided an unexpected benefit of giving existing pastures and rangeland more time to rest and grow between grazings. The extra rest produced a more robust and diverse stand of native grass species.Growing cover crops coupled with a no-till system improved earthworm activity and soil life. An increase in nutrient cycling allowed for less fertilizer use. Improved water infiltration meant crops and forage grew even in years of drought.Ultimately, rebuilding worn-out soils proved essential in allowing Michael and Brian to return home to farm with their father, Richard.Michael shares his knowledge and lessons learned with other farmers and ranchers. He’s a founding member and chairman of the Kansas Soil Health Alliance, president of No-till on the Plains, and a supervisor on the Norton County Conservation District Board.Michael, who worked as a kindergarten teacher for a dozen years before returning to the farm, now shares his conservation experience with thousands of people each year at local, statewide, regional and international conferences and field days.He also serves as a mentor in the Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy (WRAPS) program that connects Kansas farmers and ranchers to improve water quality. He encourages his mentees to examine what goes on underground. In extreme droughts or after heavy rains, Michael often digs below ground to examine root structure and worm channels. He teaches others that what happens deep within soil determines what grows above ground, and good soil management is key to enduring the weather extremes.Despite being part of the National Association of Conservation Districts’ Soil Health Champions Network, Michael doesn’t claim to be an expert. He humbly claims the path to lasting success is often through failure. His peers say this makes him an authentic, accessible, and passionate voice for conservation.Michael exemplifies the leadership qualities needed in agriculture to better steward its greatest resource, the soil.

NW Kan. farmer receives Kansas Leopold Conservation Award

Over 300 high school students visited Barton Community College Monday, Nov. 21, to participate in the 18th annual Jack Kilby STEM Day, which featured over two dozen presentations and hands-on workshops covering a variety of topics from crime scene investigation to animal behavior science.&nbsp; &nbsp;

For more information on JKSD visit –&nbsp;<a href="https://jksd.bartonccc.edu/" target="_blank">jksd.bartonccc.edu</a>.

For more photos, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAgdVy" target="_blank">https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAgdVy</a>

<figure>
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 </figure>Over 300 high school students visited Barton Community College Monday, Nov. 21, to participate in the 18th annual Jack Kilby STEM Day, which featured over two dozen presentations and hands-on workshops covering a variety of topics from crime scene investigation to animal behavior science.&nbsp; &nbsp;For more information on JKSD visit –&nbsp;<a href="https://jksd.bartonccc.edu/" target="_blank">jksd.bartonccc.edu</a>.For more photos, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAgdVy" target="_blank">https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAgdVy</a><figure>
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300+ high school students visit Barton for Jack Kilby Day

Ellis County 4-H Council invites Kansas teens&nbsp;to participate in&nbsp;its upcoming&nbsp;“Chat, Don’t Snap”&nbsp;workshop on&nbsp;Sunday, Dec. 4&nbsp;from 1 to 5 p.m. at the FHSU Memorial Union. The event will&nbsp;give teens the opportunity to grow their leadership and communication skills&nbsp;through civil discourse.

Dr. Lori Kniffin, Fort Hays State University Assistant Professor of Leadership&nbsp;Studies&nbsp;and expert in civic leadership &amp; dialogue,&nbsp;will&nbsp;introduce&nbsp;the&nbsp;importance of civil discourse through a keynote&nbsp;address. Breakout sessions for both parents and their teens will allow each group to practice these vital communication skills. The event will conclude with a free concert for all in attendance by the Peterson Farm Brothers.&nbsp;Free commemorative t-shirts will be given to the first 100 teens who register, and refreshments will be served.

The event will be hosted by Ellis County 4-H Council and spearheaded by Hays High sophomores Elizabeth Noble, Marisa Wasinger, and John Weisenborn.&nbsp;Attendees will choose to attend sessions&nbsp;with discussions&nbsp;on The Future of Our Environment, Pros and Cons of&nbsp;Social Media,&nbsp;and Guns in America.&nbsp;This event is open to all teens. You don’t have to be a 4-Her to attend.

Sponsors for the event include&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Midwest Energy Community Fund, Lang Diesel,&nbsp;eyeSMILE&nbsp;Vision &amp; Dental, Hays Optimist Club, Redeem Designs, Hays Kiwanis Club, Ellis County 4-H Council, FHSU Department of Leadership Studies, and private donors.

To learn more or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://rb.gy/2ct9ui?fbclid=IwAR3rXvmdqXtb-Os_KcLDIDJe4KPF8NcnJJosZOxtX52QOGmjhoSCowbD6UY">https://rb.gy/2ct9ui</a>&nbsp;or contact the Cottonwood District&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;office at 785-628-9430.&nbsp;The registration deadline is Monday.

If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact Stacy at 785-628-9430.

News releaseEllis County 4-H Council invites Kansas teens&nbsp;to participate in&nbsp;its upcoming&nbsp;“Chat, Don’t Snap”&nbsp;workshop on&nbsp;Sunday, Dec. 4&nbsp;from 1 to 5 p.m. at the FHSU Memorial Union. The event will&nbsp;give teens the opportunity to grow their leadership and communication skills&nbsp;through civil discourse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669133924778.jpeg" alt="Dr. Lori Kniffin" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lori Kniffin</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Lori Kniffin, Fort Hays State University Assistant Professor of Leadership&nbsp;Studies&nbsp;and expert in civic leadership &amp; dialogue,&nbsp;will&nbsp;introduce&nbsp;the&nbsp;importance of civil discourse through a keynote&nbsp;address. Breakout sessions for both parents and their teens will allow each group to practice these vital communication skills. The event will conclude with a free concert for all in attendance by the Peterson Farm Brothers.&nbsp;Free commemorative t-shirts will be given to the first 100 teens who register, and refreshments will be served.The event will be hosted by Ellis County 4-H Council and spearheaded by Hays High sophomores Elizabeth Noble, Marisa Wasinger, and John Weisenborn.&nbsp;Attendees will choose to attend sessions&nbsp;with discussions&nbsp;on The Future of Our Environment, Pros and Cons of&nbsp;Social Media,&nbsp;and Guns in America.&nbsp;This event is open to all teens. You don’t have to be a 4-Her to attend.Sponsors for the event include&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Midwest Energy Community Fund, Lang Diesel,&nbsp;eyeSMILE&nbsp;Vision &amp; Dental, Hays Optimist Club, Redeem Designs, Hays Kiwanis Club, Ellis County 4-H Council, FHSU Department of Leadership Studies, and private donors.To learn more or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://rb.gy/2ct9ui?fbclid=IwAR3rXvmdqXtb-Os_KcLDIDJe4KPF8NcnJJosZOxtX52QOGmjhoSCowbD6UY">https://rb.gy/2ct9ui</a>&nbsp;or contact the Cottonwood District&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;office at 785-628-9430.&nbsp;The registration deadline is Monday.If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact Stacy at 785-628-9430.

Ellis County 4-H event will feature Peterson brothers, FHSU prof

By BRETT MARSHALL <a href="https://www.wacathletics.com/hays-dominates-wac-football-honors/">wacathletics.com</a>

It does, however, seem&nbsp;appropriate for
the 2022 Hays High Indians football team.

Head Coach Tony Crough guided his latest
edition to a school record 10 wins, sweeping the four opponents in the Western
Athletic Conference to win the title outright, and then saw his top offensive
player – Malik Bah – and defensive player – Bryce Salmans – capture WAC
Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards.

In a year that set a new standard at Hays, it
was runner-up Great Bend Head Coach Erin Beck who earned the vote of his peers
to win WAC Coaching honors. Beck’s Panthers went 7-3 after entering the season
with a&nbsp;19-game losing streak, covering a period of three seasons.

The 10 wins engineered&nbsp;by Crough,
propelled&nbsp;the Indians all the way to the Class 5A semifinals where their
season ended with a loss to Maize High, with the only other setback to No.
1-ranked Class 6A and state finalist Manhattan during the regular season.

The Indians defeated WAC opponents Great Bend
(33-7), Garden City (30-26), Dodge City (31-7) and Liberal (56-12). A year
earlier, the Indians shared the WAC crown with both Dodge City and Garden City
when the three teams traded wins over the others – Garden over Hays, Hays over
Dodge and Dodge over Garden.

This time, there was no sharing with the other
WAC teams.

In a season after some of Hays High’s best
players graduated to the collegiate level of Division I, Crough
stitched&nbsp;together a team that ran the ball impressively, passed
effectively, and used a strong defense to keep opponents out of the end zone
much of the year.

“No. 1, you have to have good players and
we’ve got a number of those,” Crough said. “If you don’t have enough talent,
you’re not going to make a run in the playoffs.”

Crough just completed his fifth season at the
program’s helm and each year the Indians have seen a steady improvement. His
teams have gone 3-6, 4-6, 5-3, 8-3 and this year’s 10-2. The 10 wins is a
program record, eclipsing the 1984 and 1993 teams that reached the state semis.

“I think that Hays has always had some good athletes,
but I honestly don’t think they had the mindset of winning as a big priority,”
Crough said of the program he inherited in 2018. “We had to go out and beat the
drums some to get kids to come out. We had to instill a belief that they could
win, and now I think we have a belief of expecting to win.”

Crough credited his school’s administration
for allowing him to bring in coaches who could also teach at the high school,
effectively making communication with the student-athletes much better.

“It all comes from the top down, and we’ve
just embraced a winning atmosphere and the kids, the community have all bought
in,” Crough said.&nbsp;

While his 2021 team reached the 5A
quarterfinals before losing to Hays, Crough said this year’s team had a
different approach to the just-completed season.

“We had 21 seniors and a lot of depth in the
class,” Crough said. “We lost some great players from the 2021 team, but a lot
of our really good players were juniors last year. It was just a matter of how
we would fill in those positions and we had a bunch of hungry juniors to do
that.”

While quarterback Kyreese Groen was the
starter of the Hays offense, it was Bah, a speedy junior, who ran roughshod
over the opposition in the eight-game regulation&nbsp;season&nbsp;with 1,327
yards (165.9 avg.) while scoring 20 rushing touchdowns.&nbsp;He finished the
12-game schedule with 1,633 yards on 155 carries (10.54 avg.) with 22
touchdowns. He fumbled just once.&nbsp;

Bah also showed his versatility by catching 10
passes for 206 yards and a pair of touchdowns. In many games, the speedy junior
played just about half the time, according to Crough. And he missed two games
due to injuries.

“He’s an elite, elite running back,” Crough
said of Bah. “He’s got speed, quickness and good vision. He does a great job of
showing patience by following his blockers. He’s just got all of those natural
skills that you don’t teach.”

Groen countered Bah’s speed with heads up
decision-making plays that accounted for&nbsp;1,004&nbsp;rushing yards
and&nbsp;13&nbsp;TDs while completing&nbsp;46-of-101&nbsp;passes for&nbsp;805&nbsp;yards
and 14&nbsp;touchdowns with just 3 interceptions.

“He just did a great job of running our
offense,” Crough said of his QB. “We have a lot of different ways to move the
ball, but it all starts with his decision-making.”

On the receiving end was rangy wide receiver
Keamonie Archie, who hauled in&nbsp;20 passes for 379 yards
and&nbsp;8&nbsp;touchdowns.&nbsp;

Defensively, Salmans wasn’t the highest
tackler on the HHS defense as many teams simply ran away from him. But he led
the WAC with 5 sacks and 13&nbsp;tackles for a loss.&nbsp;He also forced a
fumble and recovered three opponent miscues. He finished with 57 tackles, 27 of
those solo.

Unquestionably, the combination of offense and
defense put the Indians in a position to succeed at a high level as they
produced one of the best seasons in school history.

“The strength of our offense comes from our
defense, which did a great job all season,” Crough said. “Our defense put us in
good position so many different times for our offense.”

The Indians’ defense gave up just an average
of 15.9 points per game and just 238 total yards each outing (107 passing/128
rushing). They also had a turnover margin of plus-17.

Crough credits&nbsp;the players and their
belief in the system&nbsp;for the general uptick in the program, which had
several 5A postseason playoff games a decade ago, but couldn’t get out of the
first round.&nbsp;The Indians had struggled through three losing seasons before
his arrival.

Crough played quarterback in high school at
Garden City for Dave Meadows in the late 1990s and credits his former coach for
much of his current philosophy.

“I learned so much from Coach,” Crough said in
referencing Meadows (Coach of the 1999 6A state championship team). “I learned
how to build a program and how much he poured himself into the kids. I learned
about being part of a team and how to find kids. You have to see the value in
the kids and become a model of consistency. He taught me about believing it
could happen and building character to be a great person on and off the field.
You learn how to do the little things over and over and over.”

Offensive&nbsp;Player of the Year 
Malik Bah, Hays, Jr., 5-8, 175-lb, RB&nbsp;

The speedy Bah, who still has a senior season
to look forward to in 2023, was brilliant for the Indians this season.

Clocked at 11.0 in the 100-meter dash, Bah
used his speed and quickness to finish the 2022 campaign with 1,633 yards on
just 155 carries (10.54 avg.) and reached the end zone 22 times carrying the
ball. He added 10 catches for 206 yards and another&nbsp;2 TDs. Add in 122
yards on kickoff returns and 88 on punt returns and he compiled 2,049
all-purpose yards.

“He’s an elite, elite running back,” his
coach, Tony Crough, said. “I’m not saying he’s a Darren Sproles or a Deuce
Vaughn, but he has a similar style to them.”

For Bah, the breakout season was something he
and his teammates had looked to early before the season even began.

“We listened to the coaches and I just
followed my offensive linemen,” he said. “They’re some real good dudes up front
and I learned how to be more patient and not just run side to side. I learned
how to follow my blockers and then make the move to an opening.”

Bah said an opening-game victory over Junction
City gave the Indians a lot of confidence and then they played 6A state
finalist and No. 1-ranked Manhattan tough early in the season.

“We just kept getting better each week after
those games,” Bah said. “With the line blocking, I feel like any play I can be
taking off for six (TD).”

Bah said the team’s chemistry was a big factor
in the success of the 2022 season.

“We’ve bonded year to year, but we were more
about WE and not ME this year and that was a big factor,” Bah said. “I can’t
wait to get back and start working for my senior year. It goes way too fast.”

Defensive Player of the Year 
Bryce Salmans, Hays, Sr., 6-1, 225-lb., DE

Salmans perhaps had more impact for the
Indians’ defense than any other player, according to Crough. His stats might
tell otherwise, but the 6-1, 225-pounder influenced how teams’ offense played
against the Indians.

“A lot of people simply ran away from his side
of the field,” Crough said. “I think we found out when we moved him defensive
end that he became one of the better ones in the state. He’s really athletic.
He’s just one of those kids with some rare skills (he was a member of the track
team’s 4×100-meter relay unit).”

Salmans’ numbers showed 57 tackles, 27 of
those solo. He led the WAC in sacks with 5 and tackles for loss with 13. He
forced one fumble and recovered three.

“I think my role this year at defensive end
was just to fit in and keep the offense from getting to the outside edge,”
Salmans said. “Our team really bonded this year and our defense definitely
improved over the year as we got more reps.”

In his first year at defensive end, Salmans
said he had to learn some of the more nuanced parts of the position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669130442352.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Great Bend’s Beck nabs Coaching honor</h2>By BRETT MARSHALL <a href="https://www.wacathletics.com/hays-dominates-wac-football-honors/">wacathletics.com</a>To the victor goes the spoils.Or so the saying goes.It does, however, seem&nbsp;appropriate for
the 2022 Hays High Indians football team.Head Coach Tony Crough guided his latest
edition to a school record 10 wins, sweeping the four opponents in the Western
Athletic Conference to win the title outright, and then saw his top offensive
player – Malik Bah – and defensive player – Bryce Salmans – capture WAC
Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards.In a year that set a new standard at Hays, it
was runner-up Great Bend Head Coach Erin Beck who earned the vote of his peers
to win WAC Coaching honors. Beck’s Panthers went 7-3 after entering the season
with a&nbsp;19-game losing streak, covering a period of three seasons.The 10 wins engineered&nbsp;by Crough,
propelled&nbsp;the Indians all the way to the Class 5A semifinals where their
season ended with a loss to Maize High, with the only other setback to No.
1-ranked Class 6A and state finalist Manhattan during the regular season.The Indians defeated WAC opponents Great Bend
(33-7), Garden City (30-26), Dodge City (31-7) and Liberal (56-12). A year
earlier, the Indians shared the WAC crown with both Dodge City and Garden City
when the three teams traded wins over the others – Garden over Hays, Hays over
Dodge and Dodge over Garden.This time, there was no sharing with the other
WAC teams.In a season after some of Hays High’s best
players graduated to the collegiate level of Division I, Crough
stitched&nbsp;together a team that ran the ball impressively, passed
effectively, and used a strong defense to keep opponents out of the end zone
much of the year.“No. 1, you have to have good players and
we’ve got a number of those,” Crough said. “If you don’t have enough talent,
you’re not going to make a run in the playoffs.”Crough just completed his fifth season at the
program’s helm and each year the Indians have seen a steady improvement. His
teams have gone 3-6, 4-6, 5-3, 8-3 and this year’s 10-2. The 10 wins is a
program record, eclipsing the 1984 and 1993 teams that reached the state semis.“I think that Hays has always had some good athletes,
but I honestly don’t think they had the mindset of winning as a big priority,”
Crough said of the program he inherited in 2018. “We had to go out and beat the
drums some to get kids to come out. We had to instill a belief that they could
win, and now I think we have a belief of expecting to win.”Crough credited his school’s administration
for allowing him to bring in coaches who could also teach at the high school,
effectively making communication with the student-athletes much better.“It all comes from the top down, and we’ve
just embraced a winning atmosphere and the kids, the community have all bought
in,” Crough said.&nbsp;While his 2021 team reached the 5A
quarterfinals before losing to Hays, Crough said this year’s team had a
different approach to the just-completed season.“We had 21 seniors and a lot of depth in the
class,” Crough said. “We lost some great players from the 2021 team, but a lot
of our really good players were juniors last year. It was just a matter of how
we would fill in those positions and we had a bunch of hungry juniors to do
that.”While quarterback Kyreese Groen was the
starter of the Hays offense, it was Bah, a speedy junior, who ran roughshod
over the opposition in the eight-game regulation&nbsp;season&nbsp;with 1,327
yards (165.9 avg.) while scoring 20 rushing touchdowns.&nbsp;He finished the
12-game schedule with 1,633 yards on 155 carries (10.54 avg.) with 22
touchdowns. He fumbled just once.&nbsp;Bah also showed his versatility by catching 10
passes for 206 yards and a pair of touchdowns. In many games, the speedy junior
played just about half the time, according to Crough. And he missed two games
due to injuries.“He’s an elite, elite running back,” Crough
said of Bah. “He’s got speed, quickness and good vision. He does a great job of
showing patience by following his blockers. He’s just got all of those natural
skills that you don’t teach.”Groen countered Bah’s speed with heads up
decision-making plays that accounted for&nbsp;1,004&nbsp;rushing yards
and&nbsp;13&nbsp;TDs while completing&nbsp;46-of-101&nbsp;passes for&nbsp;805&nbsp;yards
and 14&nbsp;touchdowns with just 3 interceptions.“He just did a great job of running our
offense,” Crough said of his QB. “We have a lot of different ways to move the
ball, but it all starts with his decision-making.”On the receiving end was rangy wide receiver
Keamonie Archie, who hauled in&nbsp;20 passes for 379 yards
and&nbsp;8&nbsp;touchdowns.&nbsp;Defensively, Salmans wasn’t the highest
tackler on the HHS defense as many teams simply ran away from him. But he led
the WAC with 5 sacks and 13&nbsp;tackles for a loss.&nbsp;He also forced a
fumble and recovered three opponent miscues. He finished with 57 tackles, 27 of
those solo.Unquestionably, the combination of offense and
defense put the Indians in a position to succeed at a high level as they
produced one of the best seasons in school history.“The strength of our offense comes from our
defense, which did a great job all season,” Crough said. “Our defense put us in
good position so many different times for our offense.”The Indians’ defense gave up just an average
of 15.9 points per game and just 238 total yards each outing (107 passing/128
rushing). They also had a turnover margin of plus-17.Crough credits&nbsp;the players and their
belief in the system&nbsp;for the general uptick in the program, which had
several 5A postseason playoff games a decade ago, but couldn’t get out of the
first round.&nbsp;The Indians had struggled through three losing seasons before
his arrival.Crough played quarterback in high school at
Garden City for Dave Meadows in the late 1990s and credits his former coach for
much of his current philosophy.“I learned so much from Coach,” Crough said in
referencing Meadows (Coach of the 1999 6A state championship team). “I learned
how to build a program and how much he poured himself into the kids. I learned
about being part of a team and how to find kids. You have to see the value in
the kids and become a model of consistency. He taught me about believing it
could happen and building character to be a great person on and off the field.
You learn how to do the little things over and over and over.”Offensive&nbsp;Player of the Year 
Malik Bah, Hays, Jr., 5-8, 175-lb, RB&nbsp;The speedy Bah, who still has a senior season
to look forward to in 2023, was brilliant for the Indians this season.Clocked at 11.0 in the 100-meter dash, Bah
used his speed and quickness to finish the 2022 campaign with 1,633 yards on
just 155 carries (10.54 avg.) and reached the end zone 22 times carrying the
ball. He added 10 catches for 206 yards and another&nbsp;2 TDs. Add in 122
yards on kickoff returns and 88 on punt returns and he compiled 2,049
all-purpose yards.“He’s an elite, elite running back,” his
coach, Tony Crough, said. “I’m not saying he’s a Darren Sproles or a Deuce
Vaughn, but he has a similar style to them.”For Bah, the breakout season was something he
and his teammates had looked to early before the season even began.“We listened to the coaches and I just
followed my offensive linemen,” he said. “They’re some real good dudes up front
and I learned how to be more patient and not just run side to side. I learned
how to follow my blockers and then make the move to an opening.”Bah said an opening-game victory over Junction
City gave the Indians a lot of confidence and then they played 6A state
finalist and No. 1-ranked Manhattan tough early in the season.“We just kept getting better each week after
those games,” Bah said. “With the line blocking, I feel like any play I can be
taking off for six (TD).”Bah said the team’s chemistry was a big factor
in the success of the 2022 season.“We’ve bonded year to year, but we were more
about WE and not ME this year and that was a big factor,” Bah said. “I can’t
wait to get back and start working for my senior year. It goes way too fast.”Defensive Player of the Year 
Bryce Salmans, Hays, Sr., 6-1, 225-lb., DESalmans perhaps had more impact for the
Indians’ defense than any other player, according to Crough. His stats might
tell otherwise, but the 6-1, 225-pounder influenced how teams’ offense played
against the Indians.“A lot of people simply ran away from his side
of the field,” Crough said. “I think we found out when we moved him defensive
end that he became one of the better ones in the state. He’s really athletic.
He’s just one of those kids with some rare skills (he was a member of the track
team’s 4×100-meter relay unit).”Salmans’ numbers showed 57 tackles, 27 of
those solo. He led the WAC in sacks with 5 and tackles for loss with 13. He
forced one fumble and recovered three.“I think my role this year at defensive end
was just to fit in and keep the offense from getting to the outside edge,”
Salmans said. “Our team really bonded this year and our defense definitely
improved over the year as we got more reps.”In his first year at defensive end, Salmans
said he had to learn some of the more nuanced parts of the position.“I think early I just tried to bulldoze people
and I had to learn about leverage and moving side to side,” Salmans said. “I
think I was able to cover the run/pass about the same. I think a key is just
going as hard as you can on every play.”Salmans said he hopes to play football at the
next level, but recruiting has yet to get serious.“Not sure where, but I want to play
somewhere,” he said. “I want to study either physical therapy or law but I’m
unsure about that, too.”All-WAC selectionsBah, of course, leads the way on the all-WAC
first-team offense and is joined on the squad by teammates Derrik Riggs (Sr.,
OL), Quinton McGuire (Sr., OL) and Groen (Sr., Athlete). Conference runner-up
Great Bend and third-place Garden City each had three first-teamers on offense.The Panthers’ selections include junior OL
Matthew Johnson, senior quarterback Cayden Scheuerman) and senior wide receiver
Braylon Council. The Buffaloes’ choices include OL Garrett Messenger, running
back Zack Keosengphet and special&nbsp;team’s&nbsp;player Jerry Arteaga. All
are seniors.Liberal’s two selections include quarterback
J. Brooks Kappelmann and wide receiver Zayden Martinez, both juniors, and Dodge
City senior OL Roman Loya.Defensively, the stingy Hays defense also set
standard for selections as five Indians received first-team votes. In addition
to Salmans, senior lineman Carson Spray, senior linebackers Evan Lind and Wyatt
Waddell and defensive back Connor Dreiling made the top squad.Great Bend had a pair of selections in junior
lineman Dee’Onn Jones and senior linebacker Mathew Moeder; Garden City’s three
first-teamers include sophomore lineman David Holguin, and defensive backs Ryan
Heiman and Caleb Wiese. Heiman and Wiese are seniors.Liberal’s Trystian Juarez, a senior
linebacker, rounded out the first-team defense.<figure>
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