The Fort Hays State community showed up for the university’s third annual Giving Day in a powerful way. Tiger fans worldwide enthusiastically supported more than 62 causes across campus during the 24-hour fundraising campaign.

Donations rolled in throughout the day, proving the Fort Hays State community's dedication to providing students with an affordable, high-quality education. Just over 1,200 Tiger fans supported projects across campus in need of financial assistance. Many donors contributed to more than one project leading to more than $200,000 in total gifts.

Those who supported the 24-hour fundraising effort on April 18th donated to scholarships, academic colleges, athletic programs, and several student organizations, among additional campus projects and priorities.

Donors also backed the Kansas Comprehensive Grant.&nbsp;Gifts designated to this program were doubled dollar for dollar by a new grant match opportunity through the state of Kansas. Contributions supported students at Fort Hays State who are Kansas residents, enrolled full-time, and demonstrate significant financial need.

“The Tiger family continues to amaze me with their generosity and commitment to Fort Hays State every Giving Day,” said Jason Williby, president and CEO of the FHSU Foundation.

“For the third year in a row, we strengthened our mission and gave back to deserving students,” Williby added. “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support and those who encouraged friends and family to participate in Giving Day. The powerful impact of our community will be felt for years to come.”

FHSU’s Giving Day was created in 2021 to raise awareness around the university’s needs, cultivate new donors, and offer an engaging way to raise money for deserving Tigers. &nbsp;

Anyone who was unable to participate in this year’s Giving Day can still make an impact at Fort Hays State University by making a gift at&nbsp;<a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift">foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift</a>. Learn more about the FHSU Foundation by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, calling 785-628-5620, or emailing<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682099391857.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU FoundationThe Fort Hays State community showed up for the university’s third annual Giving Day in a powerful way. Tiger fans worldwide enthusiastically supported more than 62 causes across campus during the 24-hour fundraising campaign.Donations rolled in throughout the day, proving the Fort Hays State community's dedication to providing students with an affordable, high-quality education. Just over 1,200 Tiger fans supported projects across campus in need of financial assistance. Many donors contributed to more than one project leading to more than $200,000 in total gifts.Those who supported the 24-hour fundraising effort on April 18th donated to scholarships, academic colleges, athletic programs, and several student organizations, among additional campus projects and priorities.Donors also backed the Kansas Comprehensive Grant.&nbsp;Gifts designated to this program were doubled dollar for dollar by a new grant match opportunity through the state of Kansas. Contributions supported students at Fort Hays State who are Kansas residents, enrolled full-time, and demonstrate significant financial need.“The Tiger family continues to amaze me with their generosity and commitment to Fort Hays State every Giving Day,” said Jason Williby, president and CEO of the FHSU Foundation.“For the third year in a row, we strengthened our mission and gave back to deserving students,” Williby added. “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support and those who encouraged friends and family to participate in Giving Day. The powerful impact of our community will be felt for years to come.”FHSU’s Giving Day was created in 2021 to raise awareness around the university’s needs, cultivate new donors, and offer an engaging way to raise money for deserving Tigers. &nbsp;Anyone who was unable to participate in this year’s Giving Day can still make an impact at Fort Hays State University by making a gift at&nbsp;<a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift">foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift</a>. Learn more about the FHSU Foundation by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, calling 785-628-5620, or emailing<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>.

FHSU: Giving Day demonstrates power of community

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The weather forecast is calling for rain Tuesday, the same evening as a Hays WaterSmart environmental tour. One of the tour hosts, K-State Watershed Specialist Stacie Minson, won't mind if the event has to be postponed.

"We need the rain, and we'll let participants know that day if anything changes," Minson said.

Anyone with a connection to the city of Hays or Ellis County is invited on the bus tour, which is also sponsored by the city of Hays water resources department.&nbsp;

"We just want people to be aware their water doesn't just miraculously come out of a faucet and miraculously leave in a toilet. There's a lot of steps in-between so that they have a safe clean drinking water supply."

Participants will gather on the north side of Fort Hays State University Gross Memorial Coliseum at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday and ride in an air-conditioned FHSU bus to four locations.

The first stop is the drinking water treatment plant.&nbsp;

"We'll learn where the water comes from, how it comes into the city, how they treat it, and then how it's distributed back out into homes, businesses and schools."

The next stop is a contamination treatment unit in south-central Hays. The PACK tower takes underground water that was contaminated over the years by long-closed dry cleaners and gas stations in that area.&nbsp;

The water is treated so that it's safe to be used.

The third tour is the city water reclamation and reuse facility where water used in homes, schools and businesses is re-treated before leaving as effluent water.

"It goes downstream in Big Creek and the city of Hays re-uses it to water the municipal golf course and ball fields."

The final stop is Pleasant View Farms LLC, owned by the Ernie Binder family.

"We'll see how livestock producers, farmers, and ranchers are protecting Big Creek from pollutants and still maintaining a livestock/cropping operation."

"The big picture is we're all connected with water," Minson added. "We all need it and need to do the right thing, from conservation to water quality."&nbsp;

Supper be provided on the tour. For reservations, call Minson at 785-769-3297.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682093549470.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe weather forecast is calling for rain Tuesday, the same evening as a Hays WaterSmart environmental tour. One of the tour hosts, K-State Watershed Specialist Stacie Minson, won't mind if the event has to be postponed."We need the rain, and we'll let participants know that day if anything changes," Minson said.Anyone with a connection to the city of Hays or Ellis County is invited on the bus tour, which is also sponsored by the city of Hays water resources department.&nbsp;"We just want people to be aware their water doesn't just miraculously come out of a faucet and miraculously leave in a toilet. There's a lot of steps in-between so that they have a safe clean drinking water supply."Participants will gather on the north side of Fort Hays State University Gross Memorial Coliseum at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday and ride in an air-conditioned FHSU bus to four locations.The first stop is the drinking water treatment plant.&nbsp;"We'll learn where the water comes from, how it comes into the city, how they treat it, and then how it's distributed back out into homes, businesses and schools."The next stop is a contamination treatment unit in south-central Hays. The PACK tower takes underground water that was contaminated over the years by long-closed dry cleaners and gas stations in that area.&nbsp;The water is treated so that it's safe to be used.The third tour is the city water reclamation and reuse facility where water used in homes, schools and businesses is re-treated before leaving as effluent water."It goes downstream in Big Creek and the city of Hays re-uses it to water the municipal golf course and ball fields."The final stop is Pleasant View Farms LLC, owned by the Ernie Binder family."We'll see how livestock producers, farmers, and ranchers are protecting Big Creek from pollutants and still maintaining a livestock/cropping operation.""The big picture is we're all connected with water," Minson added. "We all need it and need to do the right thing, from conservation to water quality."&nbsp;Supper be provided on the tour. For reservations, call Minson at 785-769-3297.

WaterSmart environmental tour to highlight Hays' connection with water

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682100308234.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

<div> <script src="https://embed-980036.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="b30830b0-236d-401f-90f8-9c3822ecb092" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

State Farm agent Landon Erway presents: Mommy & Me Photo Contest

CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH OF HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. CAMBER IS HIRING NURSES, THERAPISTS AND DIRECT CARE STAFF. 

CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF. 

MOST OF ALL, CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION –FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER. 

APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT <a href="https://www.cambermentalhealth.org/careers/">CAMBERMENTALHEALTH.ORG/CAREER</a> AND JOIN THE CAMBER TEAM. CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER CAMBER BENEFITS:

* Inspiring mission –make your career meaningful! * Competitive pay for the industry * KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees * Free dental insurance * Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays * 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match * A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count * A strong focus on promoting internally * Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion * Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual get-togethers * Ongoing training and learning opportunities

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681925190638.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH OF HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. CAMBER IS HIRING NURSES, THERAPISTS AND DIRECT CARE STAFF. CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF. MOST OF ALL, CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION –FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER. APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT <a href="https://www.cambermentalhealth.org/careers/">CAMBERMENTALHEALTH.ORG/CAREER</a> AND JOIN THE CAMBER TEAM. CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER CAMBER BENEFITS:* Inspiring mission –make your career meaningful! * Competitive pay for the industry * KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees * Free dental insurance * Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays * 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match * A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count * A strong focus on promoting internally * Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion * Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual get-togethers * Ongoing training and learning opportunitiesAND MUCH MORE!

Victoria's St. John's Place receives grants totaling $1.35 million

On this episode of the Post Podcast Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun shares information about recent scam activity in the area along with prevention tips.

<div><iframe title="Ellis County Sheriff shares information about recent scam activity in the area" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2kc54-13d67b6-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun shares information about recent scam activity in the area along with prevention tips.

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis County Sheriff shares information about recent scam activity in the area

On this episode of the <a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> executive director, Doug Williams shares information about local governments as economic drivers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Area governments work to increase economic development" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7h22g-13eb539-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> executive director, Doug Williams shares information about local governments as economic drivers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Area governments work to increase economic development

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The bad news, at least for some, is that snakes are coming out of hibernation. The good news: only four types of venomous snakes are native to Kansas. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said that number is further reduced when it comes to Barton County and Cheyenne Bottoms.

"In this part of the state, really the only venomous snakes that we have are the Massasauga rattlesnakes," he said. "We could technically have prairie rattlesnakes as well, but they're a little bit more common east of here. I think there've only been a couple records of prairie rattlesnakes in Barton County in history."

The other two venomous species - the timber rattler and the copperhead - can be found further east in Kansas. Contrary to popular belief, Wolf said there are no cottonmouths in central Kansas. Only seven water moccasins have ever been found in the state, all in the extreme southeast corner. 

Western Massasuaga's are the smallest of the rattlesnakes found in Kansas. They range in length from 18 to 30 inches, are characterized by a small pit on each side of the head, and have nine large scales on top of the head. They do have rattles but can be difficult to detect.

"Because they are relatively small, oftentimes if the wind is blowing or if there are other noises, that rattle can be awfully difficult to hear," Wolf said. "Sometimes, they don't rattle, so it's not like it's automatic that you're going to hear it."

There have been 124 documented massasauga occurrences in Barton County, 62 in Ellsworth County, and 56 in Russell County. Those numbers are, by far, the highest in Kansas. 

"We see them every year," said Wolf. "With the spring coming and the warmer temperatures, they're coming out of hibernation and becoming more active this time of year. On these warm, sunny days, it's possible to see them out and about. Care just needs to be taken if you ever come across one."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682009014597.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe bad news, at least for some, is that snakes are coming out of hibernation. The good news: only four types of venomous snakes are native to Kansas. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said that number is further reduced when it comes to Barton County and Cheyenne Bottoms."In this part of the state, really the only venomous snakes that we have are the Massasauga rattlesnakes," he said. "We could technically have prairie rattlesnakes as well, but they're a little bit more common east of here. I think there've only been a couple records of prairie rattlesnakes in Barton County in history."The other two venomous species - the timber rattler and the copperhead - can be found further east in Kansas. Contrary to popular belief, Wolf said there are no cottonmouths in central Kansas. Only seven water moccasins have ever been found in the state, all in the extreme southeast corner. Western Massasuaga's are the smallest of the rattlesnakes found in Kansas. They range in length from 18 to 30 inches, are characterized by a small pit on each side of the head, and have nine large scales on top of the head. They do have rattles but can be difficult to detect."Because they are relatively small, oftentimes if the wind is blowing or if there are other noises, that rattle can be awfully difficult to hear," Wolf said. "Sometimes, they don't rattle, so it's not like it's automatic that you're going to hear it."There have been 124 documented massasauga occurrences in Barton County, 62 in Ellsworth County, and 56 in Russell County. Those numbers are, by far, the highest in Kansas. "We see them every year," said Wolf. "With the spring coming and the warmer temperatures, they're coming out of hibernation and becoming more active this time of year. On these warm, sunny days, it's possible to see them out and about. Care just needs to be taken if you ever come across one."

Rattlesnakes coming out of hibernation around Cheyenne Bottoms

​As&nbsp;calendar pages flipped closer to a new century,&nbsp;Ellis and&nbsp;surrounding&nbsp;communities&nbsp;grew&nbsp;and prospered.&nbsp;Schools reflected that prosperity in the number of students and the days of attendance.&nbsp;

​In 1889, Professor Whelan introduced a three-term school year. The first&nbsp;2 terms consisted of&nbsp;3 months&nbsp;while&nbsp;the last&nbsp;totaled&nbsp;2 months. To improve school quality, he&nbsp;stated&nbsp;“No students could enroll after the first week of each term.”&nbsp;He intended&nbsp;to&nbsp;strengthen&nbsp;instructional integrity for all Ellis students.&nbsp;A total of&nbsp;222 youngsters enrolled that first term. The board approved the 8-month school and funded it with a 12-mill levy (Ellis Review&nbsp;Headlight&nbsp;7-30-1889).

​As Ellis&nbsp;evolved from&nbsp;frontier outpost&nbsp;to thriving town,&nbsp;board and administrative decisions&nbsp;increasingly&nbsp;reflected state educational policy. The State Superintendent of Schools mandated all schools in his jurisdiction fly the United States&nbsp;flag. To meet this requirement, pupils and&nbsp;residents&nbsp;organized&nbsp;socials to raise $30.10 to purchase a 12 x18 foot flag and pole (ERH12-31-1889). To celebrate&nbsp;reaching&nbsp;their goal, they commemorated the flag and flew it for the first time at Kansas Day Ceremonies on January 29, 1890 (ERH 1-14-1890).

​April saw even more improvements. The board&nbsp;planted&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;trees on school grounds (ERH 4-25-1890). To finish the year, students, teachers, and townspeople&nbsp;planned&nbsp;a school exhibition that earned $44.60 to buy books for the school library. Sources estimated this amount would buy 75-80 volumes for the&nbsp;library shelves (ERH 5-2-90). One can imagine the community’s satisfaction with its educational system as it&nbsp;worked through&nbsp;the final decade of the century.

​By 1891, the Ellis school system had earned a fine reputation. The President of the Agricultural College sent a note published in the Ellis Review Headlight, February 6, 1891, stating that “Pupils who complete our course of study as far as the eighth grade will be admitted to the college on certificate of that fact without further examination.” That same year, the system boasted 5 teachers: Miss Peters, Miss Kingsley, Miss Courts, Miss Frost, and Miss Holman.

​The following year, 1892, offered a grand opportunity to celebrate education in Ellis. Although the school had operated for 19 years, no one had graduated. That changed when two girls and boy received diplomas from Ellis High School (Langley, 1990).&nbsp;

​The August 6, 1970, Centennial Edition of the Ellis Review shared former student Emma Kastner’s memories of early school practices. She recalled&nbsp;the janitor rang the bell at 8:30 each morning. The final bell rang at 9:00 a.m. Students lined up and marched up the stairs to a tune&nbsp;a teacher played on a triangle. Faculty marked students tardy if they failed to make the line before the door closed. First through fourth grades remained on the 1st&nbsp;floor of the building. Fifth and sixth graders studied in the basement, and high school&nbsp;classes met&nbsp;upstairs where courses included algebra, geometry, history, and rhetoric (now known as English). In addition to academic subjects, teachers instructed character, culture, and citizenship “as rigidly as the three R’s.”

​&nbsp;Under the watchful eyes of their&nbsp;community, students succeeded&nbsp;in their&nbsp;educational efforts.&nbsp;Imagine their&nbsp;joy saluting that first flag, filling those library shelves, and celebrating that first graduation. The&nbsp;stone&nbsp;school&nbsp;continued to build&nbsp;Ellis one youngster at a time.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682015927926.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN​As&nbsp;calendar pages flipped closer to a new century,&nbsp;Ellis and&nbsp;surrounding&nbsp;communities&nbsp;grew&nbsp;and prospered.&nbsp;Schools reflected that prosperity in the number of students and the days of attendance.&nbsp;​In 1889, Professor Whelan introduced a three-term school year. The first&nbsp;2 terms consisted of&nbsp;3 months&nbsp;while&nbsp;the last&nbsp;totaled&nbsp;2 months. To improve school quality, he&nbsp;stated&nbsp;“No students could enroll after the first week of each term.”&nbsp;He intended&nbsp;to&nbsp;strengthen&nbsp;instructional integrity for all Ellis students.&nbsp;A total of&nbsp;222 youngsters enrolled that first term. The board approved the 8-month school and funded it with a 12-mill levy (Ellis Review&nbsp;Headlight&nbsp;7-30-1889).​As Ellis&nbsp;evolved from&nbsp;frontier outpost&nbsp;to thriving town,&nbsp;board and administrative decisions&nbsp;increasingly&nbsp;reflected state educational policy. The State Superintendent of Schools mandated all schools in his jurisdiction fly the United States&nbsp;flag. To meet this requirement, pupils and&nbsp;residents&nbsp;organized&nbsp;socials to raise $30.10 to purchase a 12 x18 foot flag and pole (ERH12-31-1889). To celebrate&nbsp;reaching&nbsp;their goal, they commemorated the flag and flew it for the first time at Kansas Day Ceremonies on January 29, 1890 (ERH 1-14-1890).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>​April saw even more improvements. The board&nbsp;planted&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;trees on school grounds (ERH 4-25-1890). To finish the year, students, teachers, and townspeople&nbsp;planned&nbsp;a school exhibition that earned $44.60 to buy books for the school library. Sources estimated this amount would buy 75-80 volumes for the&nbsp;library shelves (ERH 5-2-90). One can imagine the community’s satisfaction with its educational system as it&nbsp;worked through&nbsp;the final decade of the century.​By 1891, the Ellis school system had earned a fine reputation. The President of the Agricultural College sent a note published in the Ellis Review Headlight, February 6, 1891, stating that “Pupils who complete our course of study as far as the eighth grade will be admitted to the college on certificate of that fact without further examination.” That same year, the system boasted 5 teachers: Miss Peters, Miss Kingsley, Miss Courts, Miss Frost, and Miss Holman.​The following year, 1892, offered a grand opportunity to celebrate education in Ellis. Although the school had operated for 19 years, no one had graduated. That changed when two girls and boy received diplomas from Ellis High School (Langley, 1990).&nbsp;​The August 6, 1970, Centennial Edition of the Ellis Review shared former student Emma Kastner’s memories of early school practices. She recalled&nbsp;the janitor rang the bell at 8:30 each morning. The final bell rang at 9:00 a.m. Students lined up and marched up the stairs to a tune&nbsp;a teacher played on a triangle. Faculty marked students tardy if they failed to make the line before the door closed. First through fourth grades remained on the 1st&nbsp;floor of the building. Fifth and sixth graders studied in the basement, and high school&nbsp;classes met&nbsp;upstairs where courses included algebra, geometry, history, and rhetoric (now known as English). In addition to academic subjects, teachers instructed character, culture, and citizenship “as rigidly as the three R’s.”​&nbsp;Under the watchful eyes of their&nbsp;community, students succeeded&nbsp;in their&nbsp;educational efforts.&nbsp;Imagine their&nbsp;joy saluting that first flag, filling those library shelves, and celebrating that first graduation. The&nbsp;stone&nbsp;school&nbsp;continued to build&nbsp;Ellis one youngster at a time.&nbsp;

MADORIN: History of Ellis schools, Part 5

In 2019, the Governors of Kansas and Missouri both committed to a truce, pausing the pointless, destructive tax border war.&nbsp; Prior to that, KC-area companies would regularly leverage millions
 of dollars from their respective states in order to move just a few miles across the state line.&nbsp; Waddell and Reed received $62 million to move from Kansas to Missouri, while AMC Theaters got over $21 million to move from Missouri to Kansas.&nbsp; Neither move
 took the respective companies out of the KC area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The result of this nonsense was millions of dollars lost to state services, most notably public schools, all for companies to relocate–not create–jobs.&nbsp; State money was in the mix, too—it was
 not just a Kansas City issue. The choice is then whether to cut essential services like schools and infrastructure, or make up the revenue by raising taxes on individuals and small businesses that do not have powerful, well-connected lobbyists.&nbsp; No jobs are
 created in this process, except of course for lawyers and lobbyists.

This is absurd.&nbsp; Fortunately, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Missouri Governor Mike Parson agree.&nbsp; In 2019, they agreed to a tax break truce, and it is holding.&nbsp; The Missouri General Assembly
 also passed legislation codifying it, but only if the Kansas Legislature would pass similar legislation within two years, which they did not.&nbsp; Kelly and Parson have each been re-elected since, but to make this commitment more binding once their terms are up,
 the two legislatures need to renew their own deal.&nbsp; This time, the Kansas Legislature needs to reciprocate.

To be clear, both states are still gung ho about tax breaks such as the massive “APEX” deal that lured a Panasonic electric-vehicle battery factory to Desoto. However, since 2019 there have
 been no massive tax packages dangled before existing KC employers to move a few blocks or a few miles.&nbsp; Yet unfinished business remains.&nbsp; Not only do the legislatures need to make the deal permanent, there is yet another issue that they need to address: a
 lack of tax reciprocity.

Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers live in Kansas and work in Missouri, and vice-versa.&nbsp; Each one is required to file and pay taxes in both states.&nbsp; Each state offers residents a credit for
 taxes paid to other states, but the process is cumbersome and error-prone.&nbsp; By contrast, Ohio has had a tax reciprocity agreement with all states which it borders for decades.&nbsp; Most notably, this includes the Cincinnati area, a substantial portion of which
 lies in Kentucky.&nbsp; Under those agreements, one pays taxes to the state where one lives, not where one works.&nbsp; A single state tax return is filed, and that is the end of it.&nbsp; If there are any complications, the other state need only check the taxpayer’s state
 of legal residency.&nbsp; Kansas could also do this with Colorado, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Opportunities are being lost and time wasted because of the baffling complexity of filing two tax returns and negotiating each state’s complicated process of taking a credit for the taxes paid
 to other states.&nbsp; It also incentivizes many people with otherwise-simple tax status to rely on paid tax preparers, wasting money.&nbsp; But for the border issue, these taxpayers could easily complete the forms on their own.

This should not be an ideological or partisan issue.&nbsp; The Kansas Legislature needs to renew the tax truce legislation and pass tax reciprocity–the sooner, the better.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2019, the Governors of Kansas and Missouri both committed to a truce, pausing the pointless, destructive tax border war.&nbsp; Prior to that, KC-area companies would regularly leverage millions
 of dollars from their respective states in order to move just a few miles across the state line.&nbsp; Waddell and Reed received $62 million to move from Kansas to Missouri, while AMC Theaters got over $21 million to move from Missouri to Kansas.&nbsp; Neither move
 took the respective companies out of the KC area.&nbsp;&nbsp;The result of this nonsense was millions of dollars lost to state services, most notably public schools, all for companies to relocate–not create–jobs.&nbsp; State money was in the mix, too—it was
 not just a Kansas City issue. The choice is then whether to cut essential services like schools and infrastructure, or make up the revenue by raising taxes on individuals and small businesses that do not have powerful, well-connected lobbyists.&nbsp; No jobs are
 created in this process, except of course for lawyers and lobbyists.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is absurd.&nbsp; Fortunately, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Missouri Governor Mike Parson agree.&nbsp; In 2019, they agreed to a tax break truce, and it is holding.&nbsp; The Missouri General Assembly
 also passed legislation codifying it, but only if the Kansas Legislature would pass similar legislation within two years, which they did not.&nbsp; Kelly and Parson have each been re-elected since, but to make this commitment more binding once their terms are up,
 the two legislatures need to renew their own deal.&nbsp; This time, the Kansas Legislature needs to reciprocate.To be clear, both states are still gung ho about tax breaks such as the massive “APEX” deal that lured a Panasonic electric-vehicle battery factory to Desoto. However, since 2019 there have
 been no massive tax packages dangled before existing KC employers to move a few blocks or a few miles.&nbsp; Yet unfinished business remains.&nbsp; Not only do the legislatures need to make the deal permanent, there is yet another issue that they need to address: a
 lack of tax reciprocity.Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers live in Kansas and work in Missouri, and vice-versa.&nbsp; Each one is required to file and pay taxes in both states.&nbsp; Each state offers residents a credit for
 taxes paid to other states, but the process is cumbersome and error-prone.&nbsp; By contrast, Ohio has had a tax reciprocity agreement with all states which it borders for decades.&nbsp; Most notably, this includes the Cincinnati area, a substantial portion of which
 lies in Kentucky.&nbsp; Under those agreements, one pays taxes to the state where one lives, not where one works.&nbsp; A single state tax return is filed, and that is the end of it.&nbsp; If there are any complications, the other state need only check the taxpayer’s state
 of legal residency.&nbsp; Kansas could also do this with Colorado, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.&nbsp;&nbsp;Opportunities are being lost and time wasted because of the baffling complexity of filing two tax returns and negotiating each state’s complicated process of taking a credit for the taxes paid
 to other states.&nbsp; It also incentivizes many people with otherwise-simple tax status to rely on paid tax preparers, wasting money.&nbsp; But for the border issue, these taxpayers could easily complete the forms on their own.This should not be an ideological or partisan issue.&nbsp; The Kansas Legislature needs to renew the tax truce legislation and pass tax reciprocity–the sooner, the better.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Tax truce is holding, but it’s time to finish the job

BUNKER HILL —&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Taylor Ziegler, DNP, FNP.&nbsp; Taylor is with Camber Children’s Mental Health in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will airat 7 p.m. Tuesday and will focus on children's mental health.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;

The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">YouTube channel.</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kammco.com/" target="_blank">KAMMCO</a>&nbsp;(Kansas Medical Mutual Insurance Company),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/" target="_blank">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/" target="_blank">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682085302468.png" alt="On-air-DOC_web.png" />
 <figcaption>On-air-DOC_web.png</figcaption>
 </figure>SHPTVBUNKER HILL —&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Taylor Ziegler, DNP, FNP.&nbsp; Taylor is with Camber Children’s Mental Health in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will airat 7 p.m. Tuesday and will focus on children's mental health.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">YouTube channel.</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kammco.com/" target="_blank">KAMMCO</a>&nbsp;(Kansas Medical Mutual Insurance Company),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/" target="_blank">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/" target="_blank">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

Next 'Doctors on Call' will focus on children’s mental health

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682100271978.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>

By&nbsp; STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Alfalfa weevil activity began early this year for our Oklahoma 
neighbors and it appears that degree day accumulation for Kansas alfalfa
 weevils is well ahead of normal for most locations in the state. Only 
northwest Kansas is at or slightly behind normal. There were reports of 
treatable infestations in south-central Kansas during the last week of 
March and getting towards the middle of April, fields are being treated,
 or close to being treated, in the central, southeast, and northeast 
regions of the state.

Alfalfa weevil degree days are a great way 
to estimate what might be going on in the field and serve as a useful 
tool to know when to time scouting. Alfalfa weevil eggs begin hatching 
after 300 degree days have accumulated (Table 2). Since we cannot 
determine if the eggs present were laid the previous fall or the current
 spring, in Kansas, scouting should start after 180 degree days have 
accumulated starting from January 1.

Be aware of insecticide resistance While
 warmer spring temperatures have allowed for faster alfalfa weevil 
development, at the same time in some areas dramatic temperature 
fluctuations have slowed down alfalfa growth making the plants unable to
 keep up with feeding damage. In shorter fields, between 3 and 7 inches 
tall, treatment may be warranted when feeding is evident on the top inch
 of growth and 1 to 2 larvae are present. If a field is treated, it is 
important to verify that the expected amount of control was achieved. In
 2020, populations of alfalfa weevil resistant to lambda-cyhalothrin 
were verified in northwest and southwest Kansas as well as Oklahoma. 
While this resistance has not appeared to become a widespread problem 
for Kansas producers, Oklahoma continues to have resistance statewide 
and it appears resistance to zeta-cypermethrin is developing there. 
There are numerous products available for alfalfa weevil control in 
Kansas. When making management decisions it is important to rotate modes
 of action as this is an effective way to prevent the development of 
resistance.

For the most up-to-date alfalfa weevil degree day 
accumulations, visit the Kansas Mesonet Alfalfa Weevil Degree Day 
Calculator (https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/degreedays/). For a 
complete guide to alfalfa weevil management recommendations please refer
 to the 2023 Alfalfa Insect Pest Management Guide.

Stacy Campbell 
is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which 
includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. 
You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp; STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictAlfalfa weevil activity began early this year for our Oklahoma 
neighbors and it appears that degree day accumulation for Kansas alfalfa
 weevils is well ahead of normal for most locations in the state. Only 
northwest Kansas is at or slightly behind normal. There were reports of 
treatable infestations in south-central Kansas during the last week of 
March and getting towards the middle of April, fields are being treated,
 or close to being treated, in the central, southeast, and northeast 
regions of the state.Alfalfa weevil degree days are a great way 
to estimate what might be going on in the field and serve as a useful 
tool to know when to time scouting. Alfalfa weevil eggs begin hatching 
after 300 degree days have accumulated (Table 2). Since we cannot 
determine if the eggs present were laid the previous fall or the current
 spring, in Kansas, scouting should start after 180 degree days have 
accumulated starting from January 1.Be aware of insecticide resistance While
 warmer spring temperatures have allowed for faster alfalfa weevil 
development, at the same time in some areas dramatic temperature 
fluctuations have slowed down alfalfa growth making the plants unable to
 keep up with feeding damage. In shorter fields, between 3 and 7 inches 
tall, treatment may be warranted when feeding is evident on the top inch
 of growth and 1 to 2 larvae are present. If a field is treated, it is 
important to verify that the expected amount of control was achieved. In
 2020, populations of alfalfa weevil resistant to lambda-cyhalothrin 
were verified in northwest and southwest Kansas as well as Oklahoma. 
While this resistance has not appeared to become a widespread problem 
for Kansas producers, Oklahoma continues to have resistance statewide 
and it appears resistance to zeta-cypermethrin is developing there. 
There are numerous products available for alfalfa weevil control in 
Kansas. When making management decisions it is important to rotate modes
 of action as this is an effective way to prevent the development of 
resistance.For the most up-to-date alfalfa weevil degree day 
accumulations, visit the Kansas Mesonet Alfalfa Weevil Degree Day 
Calculator (https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/degreedays/). For a 
complete guide to alfalfa weevil management recommendations please refer
 to the 2023 Alfalfa Insect Pest Management Guide.Stacy Campbell 
is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which 
includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. 
You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Monitor alfalfa weevils using degree days, scouting

🎙 Post Podcast: A guide to Vitamin D

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

GOVE COUNTY, Kan. — The prairie was still asleep when I drug my blurry-eyed self and camera gear out of a van onto a pasture in Gove County.

Our instructions indicated we should follow the stacks of cow pies to the lek, mating grounds for prairie chickens, usually used year after year.

We quickly set up our pop-up blinds and settled into the darkness, waiting and listening as the cold, dry Kansas wind slapped our faces.&nbsp;

"You will hear them before you see them," our guide whispered as he zipped us in.

Then through the darkness, you could hear warbles and then bloop, bloop, bloop of the lesser prairie chickens and finally the booooma of a greater prairie chicken.

I participated in the <a href="https://www.audubonofkansas.org/grousetours">Kansas Audubon Society</a>'s Lek Trek weekend April 13 to 16, which was based in Hays.

Although greater prairie chickens can be found from Texas to southern Canada, northwestern Kansas is the only place in the world where greater and lesser prairie chickens occur in the same place.&nbsp;

Lesser prairie chickens have a much smaller range that includes parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado and New Mexico — the majority of that range is in western Kansas.

Last weekend, more than 140 birders from across the nation came to Kansas, with Hays as their base, to see prairie chickens during their mating season.&nbsp;

In addition to the males inflating sacks on either side of their throats to make their signature booms, prairie chickens are also known for their distinct (and in my view, comical) mating dances.

The males shoot up feathers located on the back of their necks called&nbsp;pinnae. Those feathers stick up above their heads like horns. They stick their tail feathers up in the air, wiggle their butts and quickly stomp their feet. It looks like a combo between a 2-year-old throwing a temper tantrum and grandma trying to do the chicken dance.&nbsp;

Although you're supposed to be dead silent in those blinds, it's hard not to giggle just a little at the whole sight.

As more birds join the lek, fights erupt. Two males will face off in the middle of the lek, staring at each other. Sometimes they just walk away. Other times one will fly up and pounce on the other bird.&nbsp;

The females, who are much less showy, which is common in the bird world, mingle with the males appearing uninterested and unamused.

Even after all the girls have left the lek for the morning, a few males tend to hang out, too tired to spar anymore.&nbsp;

Observing prairie chickens from a blind gets you the best views of the birds and the best glimpses of their natural behaviors.

At times, birds were no more than 10 feet from our blinds and could be easily seen without scopes or binoculars.&nbsp;

The downside is that you have to be in those blinds before the first light and must stay in the blinds without a bathroom break until after 9 a.m. in our case when the birds for no apparent reason all flushed at once. We met to load vans to head toward our leks at 3:30 a.m.

Even last Friday when the high was 80, it was cold on that hilltop in Gove County, even with three layers of clothes and gloves. A birder from San Fransisco who went out on one of the blind tours Saturday morning when the high was only in the 50s said it was the coldest he had ever been.

They haven't been here when the wind chills were 50 below.

Prairie chickens were once ubiquitous on the prairie. Early settlers hunted them for food. However, their numbers have been in decline for decades.

Prairie chickens need large open areas of grassland to sustain their populations and perform their signature mating dances. They don't like anything that is taller than they are. This includes trees, power poles, windmills and oil derricks.&nbsp;

Some researchers have proffered the prairie chickens avoid these natural and manmade structures because they have historically been used by birds of prey for perches.

You likely have heard lesser prairie chickens mentioned in the news recently. The federal government has listed the lesser prairie chicken as threatened, which is not sitting too well with some energy companies and local landowners.

Prairie chickens thrive on cattle pastures. Grazing keeps cover at the needed heights for the prairie chickens through their life cycles. They need some short grass, some medium cover and some thicker cover.&nbsp;

One of these said landowners stopped our van on the way out of the pasture Friday morning and started chit-chatting about the chickens.

He said he too had prairie chickens on his property, but he said he was concerned about the limits the listing would place on property rights.

The landowner said he isn't bothered by the prairie chickens or the researchers and visitors who come to see them.&nbsp;

However, he said he wants to be able to manage his cattle and land without interference from the feds in D.C. 

The farmer's concerns did not fall on deaf ears. We've had a farm in our family for several generations. It's hard work, and farmers are often left with small profits and big debts.

So why go through all this trouble to save this one goofy little bird?&nbsp;

Jackie Augustine, organizer of the Prairie Chicken Festival and an expert on the birds, said simply they're cute.

More importantly, they are a sign of healthy prairie habitat.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/727ddb20-ced5-4d23-9090-aeb6cfda8a9e">She also argued voluntary measures have been in place for years, but the prairie chicken populations have yet to stabilize.</a>

Commerce doesn't have to be given up entirely for conservation.

Augustine said cattle ranchers can still run cattle on their land, and the listing doesn't completely restrict oil and energy production in this region. It encourages it to be done in areas that won't destroy leks.

Birders are a passionate group. They have what they call life lists, which include every bird they have seen in their lifetimes. Some birders travel internationally to add to those life lists.

The Prairie Chicken Festival attendees, most of whom were from out of state, paid hundreds of dollars in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/audubonofkansas">Audubon</a> fees alone, not to mention food, gas, lodging and entertainment to watch these birds.

Coming to a compromise between maintaining property owner rights and implementing conservation tactics that will preserve the lesser prairie chicken is where we need to be, but that's not where politics are going.

Unfortunately, parties in the prairie chicken debate have taken to their corners for a fight. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1f995f9e-3403-4556-b353-c968c3e5e924">Last week, the Kansas Attorney General sued President Biden in an attempt to have the lesser prairie chicken delisted from the threatened species list.</a>

This weekend was my third time observing prairie chickens in the wild. They never cease to amaze me. They always make me smile. Their boom ... boom ... boom ... makes me feel more in rhythm.&nbsp;

They don't understand land deeds or lawsuits. They are just doing what prairie chickens do.

Those who know me, know I am not a morning person. I don't know anyone who is a 3 a.m. morning person. However, as I emerged from our little prairie cocoons Friday morning on lek, I had a huge smile on my face. The hike, no bathroom, the early wakeup, and the cold were worth it.

However, as the birds flushed and disappeared into the gray morning Friday, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness as I wondered what was next for my feathered friends.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681935383708.jpeg" alt="Prairie chickens thrive on land that is being grazed by cattle because the cattle help maintain vegetation at varying densities, which is ideal for the life cycle of the birds. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Prairie chickens thrive on land that is being grazed by cattle because the cattle help maintain vegetation at varying densities, which is ideal for the life cycle of the birds. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostGOVE COUNTY, Kan. — The prairie was still asleep when I drug my blurry-eyed self and camera gear out of a van onto a pasture in Gove County.Our instructions indicated we should follow the stacks of cow pies to the lek, mating grounds for prairie chickens, usually used year after year.We quickly set up our pop-up blinds and settled into the darkness, waiting and listening as the cold, dry Kansas wind slapped our faces.&nbsp;"You will hear them before you see them," our guide whispered as he zipped us in.Then through the darkness, you could hear warbles and then bloop, bloop, bloop of the lesser prairie chickens and finally the booooma of a greater prairie chicken.I participated in the <a href="https://www.audubonofkansas.org/grousetours">Kansas Audubon Society</a>'s Lek Trek weekend April 13 to 16, which was based in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681935690526.jpeg" alt="The greater prairie chicken on the left, inflates its air sacs, as the lesser prairie chicken does the same on the right. Greater prairie chickens tend to be bigger and have an orange air sac. The lesser prairie chickens are smaller and have a red air sac. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The greater prairie chicken on the left, inflates its air sacs, as the lesser prairie chicken does the same on the right. Greater prairie chickens tend to be bigger and have an orange air sac. The lesser prairie chickens are smaller and have a red air sac. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Although greater prairie chickens can be found from Texas to southern Canada, northwestern Kansas is the only place in the world where greater and lesser prairie chickens occur in the same place.&nbsp;Lesser prairie chickens have a much smaller range that includes parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado and New Mexico — the majority of that range is in western Kansas.Last weekend, more than 140 birders from across the nation came to Kansas, with Hays as their base, to see prairie chickens during their mating season.&nbsp;In addition to the males inflating sacks on either side of their throats to make their signature booms, prairie chickens are also known for their distinct (and in my view, comical) mating dances.The males shoot up feathers located on the back of their necks called&nbsp;pinnae. Those feathers stick up above their heads like horns. They stick their tail feathers up in the air, wiggle their butts and quickly stomp their feet. It looks like a combo between a 2-year-old throwing a temper tantrum and grandma trying to do the chicken dance.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681935984841.jpeg" alt="Male lesser prairie chickens square off on a lek in Gove County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Male lesser prairie chickens square off on a lek in Gove County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Although you're supposed to be dead silent in those blinds, it's hard not to giggle just a little at the whole sight.As more birds join the lek, fights erupt. Two males will face off in the middle of the lek, staring at each other. Sometimes they just walk away. Other times one will fly up and pounce on the other bird.&nbsp;The females, who are much less showy, which is common in the bird world, mingle with the males appearing uninterested and unamused.Even after all the girls have left the lek for the morning, a few males tend to hang out, too tired to spar anymore.&nbsp;Observing prairie chickens from a blind gets you the best views of the birds and the best glimpses of their natural behaviors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936081724.jpeg" alt="A male lesser prairie chicken, right, tries to woo a female lesser prairie chicken, left. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A male lesser prairie chicken, right, tries to woo a female lesser prairie chicken, left. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>At times, birds were no more than 10 feet from our blinds and could be easily seen without scopes or binoculars.&nbsp;The downside is that you have to be in those blinds before the first light and must stay in the blinds without a bathroom break until after 9 a.m. in our case when the birds for no apparent reason all flushed at once. We met to load vans to head toward our leks at 3:30 a.m.Even last Friday when the high was 80, it was cold on that hilltop in Gove County, even with three layers of clothes and gloves. A birder from San Fransisco who went out on one of the blind tours Saturday morning when the high was only in the 50s said it was the coldest he had ever been.They haven't been here when the wind chills were 50 below.Prairie chickens were once ubiquitous on the prairie. Early settlers hunted them for food. However, their numbers have been in decline for decades.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936235390.jpeg" alt="A prairie chicken tries to pounce on a rival male as they fight for mates on a lek in Gove County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A prairie chicken tries to pounce on a rival male as they fight for mates on a lek in Gove County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Prairie chickens need large open areas of grassland to sustain their populations and perform their signature mating dances. They don't like anything that is taller than they are. This includes trees, power poles, windmills and oil derricks.&nbsp;Some researchers have proffered the prairie chickens avoid these natural and manmade structures because they have historically been used by birds of prey for perches.You likely have heard lesser prairie chickens mentioned in the news recently. The federal government has listed the lesser prairie chicken as threatened, which is not sitting too well with some energy companies and local landowners.Prairie chickens thrive on cattle pastures. Grazing keeps cover at the needed heights for the prairie chickens through their life cycles. They need some short grass, some medium cover and some thicker cover.&nbsp;One of these said landowners stopped our van on the way out of the pasture Friday morning and started chit-chatting about the chickens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936388982.jpeg" alt="An overview of the prairie chicken lek as dawn slowly breaks over the prairie. A male lesser prairie chicken, center, can be seen here with several females. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>An overview of the prairie chicken lek as dawn slowly breaks over the prairie. A male lesser prairie chicken, center, can be seen here with several females. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>He said he too had prairie chickens on his property, but he said he was concerned about the limits the listing would place on property rights.The landowner said he isn't bothered by the prairie chickens or the researchers and visitors who come to see them.&nbsp;However, he said he wants to be able to manage his cattle and land without interference from the feds in D.C. The farmer's concerns did not fall on deaf ears. We've had a farm in our family for several generations. It's hard work, and farmers are often left with small profits and big debts.So why go through all this trouble to save this one goofy little bird?&nbsp;Jackie Augustine, organizer of the Prairie Chicken Festival and an expert on the birds, said simply they're cute.More importantly, they are a sign of healthy prairie habitat.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936745789.jpeg" alt="Lesser prairie chickens have been listed as threatened by the federal government, but the state of Kansas is fighting that designation. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lesser prairie chickens have been listed as threatened by the federal government, but the state of Kansas is fighting that designation. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/727ddb20-ced5-4d23-9090-aeb6cfda8a9e">She also argued voluntary measures have been in place for years, but the prairie chicken populations have yet to stabilize.</a>Commerce doesn't have to be given up entirely for conservation.Augustine said cattle ranchers can still run cattle on their land, and the listing doesn't completely restrict oil and energy production in this region. It encourages it to be done in areas that won't destroy leks.Birders are a passionate group. They have what they call life lists, which include every bird they have seen in their lifetimes. Some birders travel internationally to add to those life lists.The Prairie Chicken Festival attendees, most of whom were from out of state, paid hundreds of dollars in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/audubonofkansas">Audubon</a> fees alone, not to mention food, gas, lodging and entertainment to watch these birds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936920208.jpeg" alt="Most of the prairie chicken leks in Kansas are on private land. This one was marked by cow pie piles. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Most of the prairie chicken leks in Kansas are on private land. This one was marked by cow pie piles. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Coming to a compromise between maintaining property owner rights and implementing conservation tactics that will preserve the lesser prairie chicken is where we need to be, but that's not where politics are going.Unfortunately, parties in the prairie chicken debate have taken to their corners for a fight. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1f995f9e-3403-4556-b353-c968c3e5e924">Last week, the Kansas Attorney General sued President Biden in an attempt to have the lesser prairie chicken delisted from the threatened species list.</a>This weekend was my third time observing prairie chickens in the wild. They never cease to amaze me. They always make me smile. Their boom ... boom ... boom ... makes me feel more in rhythm.&nbsp;They don't understand land deeds or lawsuits. They are just doing what prairie chickens do.Those who know me, know I am not a morning person. I don't know anyone who is a 3 a.m. morning person. However, as I emerged from our little prairie cocoons Friday morning on lek, I had a huge smile on my face. The hike, no bathroom, the early wakeup, and the cold were worth it.However, as the birds flushed and disappeared into the gray morning Friday, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness as I wondered what was next for my feathered friends.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936568023.jpeg" alt="Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney standing outside of her blind in the late morning after her prairie chicken viewing tour. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney standing outside of her blind in the late morning after her prairie chicken viewing tour. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸 Reporter experiences Kansas prairie chickens first hand

Week Three is in the books in the 2023 Cash Grab contest&nbsp; — and KZ Country and Mix 103 are chasing down The Bull.

The $1,000 grand prize winner will be announced soon. You can't win if you don't tune in 😉

💵 Listen to your favorite Eagle Radio of Hays station for the code words at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday for your chance to win! 💰

Each station is playing to give money to a local organization. The station with the most winners gives the most money.&nbsp; 101.9 The Bull - Hays Striders 99.5 KZ Country - DSNWK Mix 103.3 - Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center 96.9 KFIX - Big Brothers Big Sisters 94.3 FM/1400 AM KAYS - Jana's Campaign Cash Grab is brought to you by Viaero Wireless, Shone Fumigation and Pest Control in Smith Center,&nbsp; Brogdan GMC, Leitner Buildings and EnerSys.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682112156841.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Week Three is in the books in the 2023 Cash Grab contest&nbsp; — and KZ Country and Mix 103 are chasing down The Bull.The $1,000 grand prize winner will be announced soon. You can't win if you don't tune in 😉💵 Listen to your favorite Eagle Radio of Hays station for the code words at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday for your chance to win! 💰Each station is playing to give money to a local organization. The station with the most winners gives the most money.&nbsp; 101.9 The Bull - Hays Striders 99.5 KZ Country - DSNWK Mix 103.3 - Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center 96.9 KFIX - Big Brothers Big Sisters 94.3 FM/1400 AM KAYS - Jana's Campaign Cash Grab is brought to you by Viaero Wireless, Shone Fumigation and Pest Control in Smith Center,&nbsp; Brogdan GMC, Leitner Buildings and EnerSys.

Week Three results from Eagle Radio's Cash Grab 2023

The Kansas Geological Survey reported a small earthquake in southern Rooks County late Friday morning.&nbsp;

The 2.1-magnitude quake was recorded at 11:26 a.m. Friday. Just before midnight,&nbsp; a second earthquake — 2.8-magnitude — was detected in Smith County.

Hays PostThe Kansas Geological Survey reported a small earthquake in southern Rooks County late Friday morning.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682175576765.png" alt="KGS" />
 <figcaption>KGS</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2.1-magnitude quake was recorded at 11:26 a.m. Friday. Just before midnight,&nbsp; a second earthquake — 2.8-magnitude — was detected in Smith County.

Second earthquake recorded in NW Kansas on Friday

Green Beret, bourbon label founder set for Hays appearance

The 64th annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair is set for Friday, April 28, at Fort Hays State University’s Gross Memorial Coliseum.

<a></a>FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology has invited Kansas middle and high school students to participate in the fair. Students enrolled in a Technology Education class will bring their projects to be displayed and judged at FHSU.&nbsp;

<a></a>On Thursday, April 27, participants will travel to the FHSU campus, where their projects will be checked in by FHSU Technology and Engineering Education Association (TEECA) students.&nbsp; On Friday, middle and high school students, faculty, and the general public are welcome to view all furniture, CAD drawings, metal works, and various other projects completed by the students.&nbsp;

<a></a>Doors open to the public on Friday, April 28, at 8 a.m., and projects can be viewed until 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;Each entry is judged, and winners will be awarded a ribbon or medal. Live competitions are available for students as well.&nbsp;

<a></a>An awards presentation will be held at the end of the day (typically around 3:30 p.m.). The public is welcome to attend and share in the success of these middle and high school industrial technology programs.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682003783300.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThe 64th annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair is set for Friday, April 28, at Fort Hays State University’s Gross Memorial Coliseum.<a></a>FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology has invited Kansas middle and high school students to participate in the fair. Students enrolled in a Technology Education class will bring their projects to be displayed and judged at FHSU.&nbsp;<a></a>On Thursday, April 27, participants will travel to the FHSU campus, where their projects will be checked in by FHSU Technology and Engineering Education Association (TEECA) students.&nbsp; On Friday, middle and high school students, faculty, and the general public are welcome to view all furniture, CAD drawings, metal works, and various other projects completed by the students.&nbsp;<a></a>Doors open to the public on Friday, April 28, at 8 a.m., and projects can be viewed until 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;Each entry is judged, and winners will be awarded a ribbon or medal. Live competitions are available for students as well.&nbsp;<a></a>An awards presentation will be held at the end of the day (typically around 3:30 p.m.). The public is welcome to attend and share in the success of these middle and high school industrial technology programs.&nbsp;

Annual tech fair coming to Fort Hays State

8th Street Liquor in Hays will hold its annual Customer Appreciation Sale this Saturday, April 22nd, from 9am -11pm. Everything in the store will be on sale during this one day event.

8th Street Liquor loves their customers and they're honoring you this Saturday! 8th Street Liquor, on East 8th next to the Golden Q in Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592837680808.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8th Street Liquor in Hays will hold its annual Customer Appreciation Sale this Saturday, April 22nd, from 9am -11pm. Everything in the store will be on sale during this one day event.* Free Tshirts while supplies last* Dozens of giveaways* Lowest prices of the year -by far* Taking preorders now for large orders8th Street Liquor loves their customers and they're honoring you this Saturday! 8th Street Liquor, on East 8th next to the Golden Q in Hays.

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