On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about the Microfactory groundbreaking.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about the Microfactory groundbreaking.<div><iframe title="Lt. Gov. Toland praises Ellis Co. Microfactory" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wpz29-12eabaa-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Lt. Gov. Toland praises Ellis Co. Microfactory, economic development

HaysMed’s annual drive-through flu shot clinic will be 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.&nbsp; &nbsp;

For the safety of the public and those working the flu drive, masks are encouraged for all people ages 2 years and up.&nbsp; In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.

It will be the 23rd year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.

People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles. HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.&nbsp; If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu">haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a>&nbsp;and make copies to complete.

Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement.&nbsp; Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.

High-dose flu vaccine will not be available for 65 and over.&nbsp; The CDC has not expressed a preference for any flu vaccine indicated for people 65 years and older. It's most important for everyone to get the annual seasonal flu vaccine, whether it's a standard-dose or high-dose flu vaccine.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.

There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-through flu shot clinic.&nbsp; There will be no egg-free vaccines available at the drive-through flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.&nbsp;

The event is sponsored by the Hays Medical Center Foundation. While there is no cost for flu shots, participants are asked to bring a canned food item to benefit the Community Assistance Center.

The vaccine also is available at HaysMed clinics for patients who are unable to attend the drive-through flu shot event. Charges will apply at regular clinic visits, though the vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans.

HaysMedHaysMed’s annual drive-through flu shot clinic will be 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.&nbsp; &nbsp;For the safety of the public and those working the flu drive, masks are encouraged for all people ages 2 years and up.&nbsp; In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.It will be the 23rd year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles. HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.&nbsp; If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu">haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a>&nbsp;and make copies to complete.Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement.&nbsp; Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.High-dose flu vaccine will not be available for 65 and over.&nbsp; The CDC has not expressed a preference for any flu vaccine indicated for people 65 years and older. It's most important for everyone to get the annual seasonal flu vaccine, whether it's a standard-dose or high-dose flu vaccine.More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-through flu shot clinic.&nbsp; There will be no egg-free vaccines available at the drive-through flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.&nbsp;The event is sponsored by the Hays Medical Center Foundation. While there is no cost for flu shots, participants are asked to bring a canned food item to benefit the Community Assistance Center.The vaccine also is available at HaysMed clinics for patients who are unable to attend the drive-through flu shot event. Charges will apply at regular clinic visits, though the vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans.

Drive-through flu shots available today at HaysMed

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The 84 chairs originally set up for Wednesday night's 111th Kansas House District candidate forum between incumbent Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and challenger Ed Hammond, D-Hays, weren't enough to seat the audience at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays.

Staff had to bring out more chairs for the audience, which eventually numbered approximately 130 people.

President and CEO Sarah Wasinger of the Hays Chamber, one of the event sponsors, said Wasinger/Hammond race has generated the "most inquiries" to her office she's seen in her three years at the chamber.&nbsp;

Moderators for the forum were Tim Carpenter of the Kansas Reflector, Topeka, and Pilar Pedraza of KAKE-TV News, Wichita. Both have spent numerous years covering the state Legislature.

Questions during the hour-long event came from the statehouse reporters along with written questions submitted by the attendees.

Both candidates are well-known to Hays voters and considered long-time dedicated public servants.

Wasinger, along with her lawyer husband, Tom Wasinger, owns Ellis County Abstract and Title. She has served two two-year terms in the Kansas House and is a previous Hays city commissioner and Ellis County commissioner.&nbsp;

Hammond is the retired president of Fort Hays State University where he served 28 years.&nbsp;

The candidates basically agreed with each other on several issues, including support for legalizing medical marijuana in Kansas. Wasinger, though, said she has concerns on how it would be distributed.&nbsp;

They also support the Second Amendment and gun ownership. Hammond and Wasinger both said they would like to see tightened firearm regulations for someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness. They also support increased gun safety education for young Kansans.&nbsp;

Wasinger and Hammond are both Catholics and said they are opposed to abortion. 

Hammond, however, told a personal story of a close family friend, also a Catholic, in order to save her life made the decision to have a medically-recommended abortion in her eighth month of pregnancy.

"I do not want government to be involved in that process that I saw that family go through," Hammond said.&nbsp;

Wasinger said there is a need for abortion clinic inspections to resume.&nbsp;

"Right now, there is no Kansas law that says an abortion clinic has to be inspected for health standards," Wasinger said.

"I also believe with all my heart there should be no live dismemberment abortions," Wasinger added. "Right now, there are no laws that restrict abortion."&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a leading research and policy organization that advances sexual and reproductive health and rights worldwide,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/state-facts-about-abortion-kansas">Kansas currently prohibits abortions after 22 weeks</a>.&nbsp;

In June, the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that&nbsp;established&nbsp;the&nbsp;constitutional right to abortion.&nbsp;

In August, Kansans <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ba65721c-78dc-40f5-8977-3c43ac00088a">overwhelmingly rejected a ballot measure</a> that would have allowed the Republican-controlled Legislature to tighten abortion restrictions or ban the procedure outright.

A recount of the election votes was called for by a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a5da7b4-2ef4-4c3e-adf3-21fcca3607e1">Colby woman</a>; ultimately, the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b5341b6f-f13c-4a6c-b1a5-59950f6a627c">results stood</a>.&nbsp;

The two candidates did not agree on how to resolve conflicting water needs of farmers and ranchers against community usage. The issue was the first question asked by Pedraza.&nbsp;

The entire state is in a drought and water supplies are declining.

The <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/dwr/water-appropriation/water-law-basics">Kansas Water Appropriation Act</a> is administered by the Kansas Department of Agriculture's Division of Water Resources, which issues permits to appropriate water, regulates usage, and keeps records of all water rights in the state.

Wasinger praised the city of Hays and its longtime water conservation program, including a project to move water from the city-owned R9 Ranch in Edwards County to Ellis County as a longterm water supply.&nbsp;

"The state needs to encourage everyone to be as conservative with their water as the city of Hays has done," she said.&nbsp;"I think the state needs to encourage landowners, agricultural owners, to change how they're watering and when they're watering."

She mentioned the success of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/26054416-2887-4e75-bfab-77526fc38982">LEMAs (Local Enhanced Management Area) in northwest Kansas</a>.

"I think there's a really good chance for all of us together to figure out what's best. ... to discuss it and make sure we're all conserving properly. I think the state has a job in helping [us] do that," she said.

Hammond does not want to see the state further involved in water rights.

 "I believe the water is owned by a landowner, much like they own the oil under their land. And I believe very much in protecting that right those landowners have. I don't believe the state should be taking water away from them. They can sell it, just like they can sell their oil.&nbsp;

"I really see no need for a change in state water policy."

In his opening statement, Hammond said he is running on three issues he hears repeatedly from Hays voters — a need for Medicare expansion, more equitable K-12 state funding, and block grant funding for FHSU.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those three initiatives would have the "biggest potential impact" on the county's three major employers — HaysMed, USD 489, and FHSU — and help to improve the local economy.

"I hoping to go to Topeka and put together a bipartisan group of supporters for Medicaid expansion (KanCare). ... I believe we've lost about $100 million dollars over the last four years."&nbsp;

During her answer about how to improve the Ellis County economy, Wasinger talked about several programs already in effect.

"In the last few years, we made some incredible tax decisions about helping entrepreneurs do well in the state with help for funding resources," Wasinger said.

"I'm proud of all the things we've done to try to help rural housing."&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to helping local governments lower property taxes for their residents, Hammond proposed reactivating the state's local ad valorem tax reduction fund, and at a higher rate.&nbsp;

He talked about the unexpected additional revenues Kansas has currently that could be used to reduce property taxes.

"That money comes to cities and counties and it has to be offset by an equal amount of property tax buy-down. It was the way in which originally the state of Kansas was trying to keep the local property taxes from going too high."

Wasinger said the Legislature has been "proactive," particularly for seniors, by freezing their property taxes at a level they can maintain.&nbsp;

She pointed out that the state "can't be spending every penny that we get. ... Every time you take money from one place, you realize we're going to have to take it from somewhere else.

"So do you want us to take it from mental health? Do you want us to take it from the schools?" she asked, looking directly at Hammond.

The issue that sparked the biggest disagreement between the candidates was education funding, which is the biggest portion of the state's budget.

Hammond was critical of how the K-12 funding bill developed, and then the money for special education was removed, calling it "a shell game."

Wasinger countered that the legislature did fully fund K-12 education and said the Kansas Department of Education has $2 billion in federal COVID dollars that are unencumbered and could be used for special education funding.

"Why are they holding onto that?" she wondered.

Hammond also wants to look more closely at the state block grants awarded to universities.

He cited statistics from last year that showed Wichita State University receiving a grant more than twice as large as Fort Hays State University, even though WSU's enrollment was bigger than FHSU's by fewer than 200 students.&nbsp;

Other topics discussed included working across the aisle with state legislators, energy resources, affordable housing, daycare shortages, and employee shortages.

During her closing statement, Wasinger touted her work in the statehouse to help Kansas pay down its debts and save interest.

"Titles aren't important to me," Wasinger said. "I want to work for the betterment of our community."

Hammond said he was not part of any special interest group. "I just want to be an advocate for you," he told the audience.

The forum was sponsored by The Hays Chamber and Fort Hays State University through The American Democracy Project, the Political Science Department, Docking Institute of Public Affairs, and Tiger Media Network.

It was live-streamed by TMN and made available to Hays Post. You can watch the hour-long forum <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e42670bc-9abe-4a00-a7f2-087cb2c1e0f7">here</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1510a55d-7e11-4d07-9cf7-1e9062fdd7cb">RELATED: Hays Post / Smoky Hills TV forum from Oct. 5</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665702959984.jpeg" alt="Democrat challenger Ed Hammond listens to incumbent Repulican Barb Wasinger as she answers a question during Wednesday's forum for the Kansas House of Representatives 111th District. (Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Democrat challenger Ed Hammond listens to incumbent Repulican Barb Wasinger as she answers a question during Wednesday's forum for the Kansas House of Representatives 111th District. (Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe 84 chairs originally set up for Wednesday night's 111th Kansas House District candidate forum between incumbent Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and challenger Ed Hammond, D-Hays, weren't enough to seat the audience at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays.Staff had to bring out more chairs for the audience, which eventually numbered approximately 130 people.President and CEO Sarah Wasinger of the Hays Chamber, one of the event sponsors, said Wasinger/Hammond race has generated the "most inquiries" to her office she's seen in her three years at the chamber.&nbsp;Moderators for the forum were Tim Carpenter of the Kansas Reflector, Topeka, and Pilar Pedraza of KAKE-TV News, Wichita. Both have spent numerous years covering the state Legislature.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665702304546.jpeg" alt="Forum moderators Tim Carpenter, Kansas Reflector, and Pilar Pedraza, KAKE-TV news.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Forum moderators Tim Carpenter, Kansas Reflector, and Pilar Pedraza, KAKE-TV news.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Questions during the hour-long event came from the statehouse reporters along with written questions submitted by the attendees.Both candidates are well-known to Hays voters and considered long-time dedicated public servants.Wasinger, along with her lawyer husband, Tom Wasinger, owns Ellis County Abstract and Title. She has served two two-year terms in the Kansas House and is a previous Hays city commissioner and Ellis County commissioner.&nbsp;Hammond is the retired president of Fort Hays State University where he served 28 years.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665703889745.jpeg" alt="Audience members await the start of&nbsp; the Wasinger-Hammond forum at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays. Many in the Wasinger camp wore bright blue T-shirts, while gold and black T-shirts were prevalent among the Hammond supporters." />
 <figcaption>Audience members await the start of&nbsp; the Wasinger-Hammond forum at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays. Many in the Wasinger camp wore bright blue T-shirts, while gold and black T-shirts were prevalent among the Hammond supporters.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Guns, weed, abortion</h2>The candidates basically agreed with each other on several issues, including support for legalizing medical marijuana in Kansas. Wasinger, though, said she has concerns on how it would be distributed.&nbsp;They also support the Second Amendment and gun ownership. Hammond and Wasinger both said they would like to see tightened firearm regulations for someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness. They also support increased gun safety education for young Kansans.&nbsp;Wasinger and Hammond are both Catholics and said they are opposed to abortion. Hammond, however, told a personal story of a close family friend, also a Catholic, in order to save her life made the decision to have a medically-recommended abortion in her eighth month of pregnancy."I do not want government to be involved in that process that I saw that family go through," Hammond said.&nbsp;Wasinger said there is a need for abortion clinic inspections to resume.&nbsp;"Right now, there is no Kansas law that says an abortion clinic has to be inspected for health standards," Wasinger said."I also believe with all my heart there should be no live dismemberment abortions," Wasinger added. "Right now, there are no laws that restrict abortion."&nbsp;&nbsp;However, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a leading research and policy organization that advances sexual and reproductive health and rights worldwide,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/state-facts-about-abortion-kansas">Kansas currently prohibits abortions after 22 weeks</a>.&nbsp;In June, the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that&nbsp;established&nbsp;the&nbsp;constitutional right to abortion.&nbsp;In August, Kansans <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ba65721c-78dc-40f5-8977-3c43ac00088a">overwhelmingly rejected a ballot measure</a> that would have allowed the Republican-controlled Legislature to tighten abortion restrictions or ban the procedure outright.A recount of the election votes was called for by a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a5da7b4-2ef4-4c3e-adf3-21fcca3607e1">Colby woman</a>; ultimately, the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b5341b6f-f13c-4a6c-b1a5-59950f6a627c">results stood</a>.&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/pWpmdY9x-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Barb V Ed Forum" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><h2>Water rights, dwindling water supplies</h2>The two candidates did not agree on how to resolve conflicting water needs of farmers and ranchers against community usage. The issue was the first question asked by Pedraza.&nbsp;The entire state is in a drought and water supplies are declining.The <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/dwr/water-appropriation/water-law-basics">Kansas Water Appropriation Act</a> is administered by the Kansas Department of Agriculture's Division of Water Resources, which issues permits to appropriate water, regulates usage, and keeps records of all water rights in the state. Wasinger praised the city of Hays and its longtime water conservation program, including a project to move water from the city-owned R9 Ranch in Edwards County to Ellis County as a longterm water supply.&nbsp;"The state needs to encourage everyone to be as conservative with their water as the city of Hays has done," she said.&nbsp;"I think the state needs to encourage landowners, agricultural owners, to change how they're watering and when they're watering."She mentioned the success of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/26054416-2887-4e75-bfab-77526fc38982">LEMAs (Local Enhanced Management Area) in northwest Kansas</a>."I think there's a really good chance for all of us together to figure out what's best. ... to discuss it and make sure we're all conserving properly. I think the state has a job in helping [us] do that," she said.Hammond does not want to see the state further involved in water rights."I disagree," he said firmly. "I believe the water is owned by a landowner, much like they own the oil under their land. And I believe very much in protecting that right those landowners have. I don't believe the state should be taking water away from them. They can sell it, just like they can sell their oil.&nbsp;"I really see no need for a change in state water policy."In his opening statement, Hammond said he is running on three issues he hears repeatedly from Hays voters — a need for Medicare expansion, more equitable K-12 state funding, and block grant funding for FHSU.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The local economy</h2>Those three initiatives would have the "biggest potential impact" on the county's three major employers — HaysMed, USD 489, and FHSU — and help to improve the local economy."I hoping to go to Topeka and put together a bipartisan group of supporters for Medicaid expansion (KanCare). ... I believe we've lost about $100 million dollars over the last four years."&nbsp;During her answer about how to improve the Ellis County economy, Wasinger talked about several programs already in effect."In the last few years, we made some incredible tax decisions about helping entrepreneurs do well in the state with help for funding resources," Wasinger said."I'm proud of all the things we've done to try to help rural housing."&nbsp;&nbsp;When it comes to helping local governments lower property taxes for their residents, Hammond proposed reactivating the state's local ad valorem tax reduction fund, and at a higher rate.&nbsp;He talked about the unexpected additional revenues Kansas has currently that could be used to reduce property taxes."That money comes to cities and counties and it has to be offset by an equal amount of property tax buy-down. It was the way in which originally the state of Kansas was trying to keep the local property taxes from going too high."Wasinger said the Legislature has been "proactive," particularly for seniors, by freezing their property taxes at a level they can maintain.&nbsp;She pointed out that the state "can't be spending every penny that we get. ... Every time you take money from one place, you realize we're going to have to take it from somewhere else."So do you want us to take it from mental health? Do you want us to take it from the schools?" she asked, looking directly at Hammond.<h2>Education funding</h2>The issue that sparked the biggest disagreement between the candidates was education funding, which is the biggest portion of the state's budget.Hammond was critical of how the K-12 funding bill developed, and then the money for special education was removed, calling it "a shell game."Wasinger countered that the legislature did fully fund K-12 education and said the Kansas Department of Education has $2 billion in federal COVID dollars that are unencumbered and could be used for special education funding."Why are they holding onto that?" she wondered.Hammond also wants to look more closely at the state block grants awarded to universities.He cited statistics from last year that showed Wichita State University receiving a grant more than twice as large as Fort Hays State University, even though WSU's enrollment was bigger than FHSU's by fewer than 200 students.&nbsp;<h2>Other topics</h2>Other topics discussed included working across the aisle with state legislators, energy resources, affordable housing, daycare shortages, and employee shortages.During her closing statement, Wasinger touted her work in the statehouse to help Kansas pay down its debts and save interest."Titles aren't important to me," Wasinger said. "I want to work for the betterment of our community." Hammond said he was not part of any special interest group. "I just want to be an advocate for you," he told the audience.The forum was sponsored by The Hays Chamber and Fort Hays State University through The American Democracy Project, the Political Science Department, Docking Institute of Public Affairs, and Tiger Media Network.It was live-streamed by TMN and made available to Hays Post. You can watch the hour-long forum <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e42670bc-9abe-4a00-a7f2-087cb2c1e0f7">here</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1510a55d-7e11-4d07-9cf7-1e9062fdd7cb">RELATED: Hays Post / Smoky Hills TV forum from Oct. 5</a>

🎥 Wasinger vs. Hammond race for 111th District draws growing interest

<div>  <script src="https://embed-1007176.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="7e46069d-b527-45eb-83f1-ed4591d39ec9" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

Enter to win Eagle Radio's Cash Grab

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division has announced a culvert repair project will take place in the 1200 block
of Feedlot Road, between Hyacinth and 220th Avenue. 

This area will be closed to
traffic beginning at 9 a.m. Monday and will remain
closed until the project is completed. 

The expected completion date is Oct. 20, pending weather. Motorists traveling in the
affected closure area should use alternate routes of travel until the project
is complete. 

For more information, call (785)-628-9455.&nbsp;

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division has announced a culvert repair project will take place in the 1200 block
of Feedlot Road, between Hyacinth and 220th Avenue. This area will be closed to
traffic beginning at 9 a.m. Monday and will remain
closed until the project is completed. The expected completion date is Oct. 20, pending weather. Motorists traveling in the
affected closure area should use alternate routes of travel until the project
is complete. For more information, call (785)-628-9455.&nbsp;—&nbsp;Ellis County

Ellis County set to begin culvert repair on Feedlot Road

A look at the annual Wild Game Feed at Cedar Bluff

Twenty-nine years ago,&nbsp;two of my husband’s hunting buddies hatched an&nbsp;idea to make room in their wild game freezers as hunting seasons&nbsp;peaked&nbsp;and enjoy family and friends&nbsp;at the same time. They called&nbsp;their brainstorm&nbsp;the Wild Game Feed and invited guests to bring wild game or side dishes to one of the cabins at Cedar Bluff on an early October Saturday. Thus began a tradition all of us look forward to every year.

Over three decades,&nbsp;some things stay the same and some change.&nbsp;We’ve said farewell to loved ones, so current game feeds offer opportunities to remember those who’ve passed and how much they loved these gatherings. To balance the losses, our kids have grown up, married, and now bring their&nbsp;spouses and&nbsp;youngsters&nbsp;who&nbsp;play&nbsp;the same made-up games their parents did as children. This year littles, some&nbsp;still in momma’s arms&nbsp;and others&nbsp;big enough to join dads and grandpas in deer stands,&nbsp;kept us on our toes watching them&nbsp;chase one another through tall grass.

The core group may have&nbsp;wrinkled and&nbsp;grayed, but their conversations still focus on the thing that brought them together in the first place—Kansas outdoors. Hunting, fishing, camping, boating, birding, metal detecting, gardening, and ranching&nbsp;topics&nbsp;weave in and out of conversations.&nbsp;Sit back,&nbsp;listen,&nbsp;and learn about reloading, choosing better camo&nbsp;and boots, preferred arrows and bows, the best bait to use at a particular fishing spot, where to see sandhill cranes or eagles, gardening techniques, who got a new metal detector and what they’re finding, and who’s the best jokester in the group.&nbsp;As stories follow one after another,&nbsp;worn out&nbsp;kids and grandkids pop onto soft&nbsp;laps&nbsp;while other&nbsp;zip&nbsp;by&nbsp;to&nbsp;remind us how glad we are that they&nbsp;happily play&nbsp;outdoors and make&nbsp;new friends.

Since it’s a wild game feed,&nbsp;methods&nbsp;to cook deer, elk, antelope, rabbit, turtle, snake, turkey, pheasant, duck, goose, dove, quail,&nbsp;and other&nbsp;critters&nbsp;turn into animated&nbsp;discussions. Over time, the cooks’&nbsp;skills &nbsp;evolved&nbsp;from basic grilling to gourmet dishes&nbsp;involving pasta, sun dried tomatoes, and fresh sage. I’ve never been fond of duck, but one of the original members has perfected his preparation and cooking&nbsp;so&nbsp;that his duck kebabs disappear as fast as he makes them. He’s also tweaked a twice baked deer steak that&nbsp;vanishes the minute he&nbsp;sets&nbsp;the serving dish on the&nbsp;crowded&nbsp;table. If you come late, you miss out. He’s secretive about his recipes but makes it clear preparing the game prior to cooking is&nbsp;key&nbsp;to his success. Several favorite cooks have mastered marinades that make&nbsp;spectacular&nbsp;dishes. A few years ago, a&nbsp;culinary magazine&nbsp;writer joined the festivities and put together an article&nbsp;featuring&nbsp;the Game Feed.&nbsp;

You can’t have dinner without dessert and this crowd makes sure those are memorable. We expect the best ever cowboy cookies, homemade pies from fresh-picked cherries, huckleberry cheese cake, huckleberry crunch, brownies, chocolate cakes,&nbsp;fruit&nbsp;cobblers, and more. The dessert table is a diabetic’s nightmare.

More than anything, this is a gathering of new and old friends who love the outdoors. They’ve found a way to celebrate their common passion that doesn’t require loved ones to dress in camo and sneak silently into a deer tree or goose blind before morning light. It’s become such a tradition that we leave saying,&nbsp;“See you next year.”&nbsp;Many thanks to Steve and Rick who started this.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A look at the annual Wild Game Feed at Cedar Bluff</h2>By KAREN MADORINTwenty-nine years ago,&nbsp;two of my husband’s hunting buddies hatched an&nbsp;idea to make room in their wild game freezers as hunting seasons&nbsp;peaked&nbsp;and enjoy family and friends&nbsp;at the same time. They called&nbsp;their brainstorm&nbsp;the Wild Game Feed and invited guests to bring wild game or side dishes to one of the cabins at Cedar Bluff on an early October Saturday. Thus began a tradition all of us look forward to every year.Over three decades,&nbsp;some things stay the same and some change.&nbsp;We’ve said farewell to loved ones, so current game feeds offer opportunities to remember those who’ve passed and how much they loved these gatherings. To balance the losses, our kids have grown up, married, and now bring their&nbsp;spouses and&nbsp;youngsters&nbsp;who&nbsp;play&nbsp;the same made-up games their parents did as children. This year littles, some&nbsp;still in momma’s arms&nbsp;and others&nbsp;big enough to join dads and grandpas in deer stands,&nbsp;kept us on our toes watching them&nbsp;chase one another through tall grass.The core group may have&nbsp;wrinkled and&nbsp;grayed, but their conversations still focus on the thing that brought them together in the first place—Kansas outdoors. Hunting, fishing, camping, boating, birding, metal detecting, gardening, and ranching&nbsp;topics&nbsp;weave in and out of conversations.&nbsp;Sit back,&nbsp;listen,&nbsp;and learn about reloading, choosing better camo&nbsp;and boots, preferred arrows and bows, the best bait to use at a particular fishing spot, where to see sandhill cranes or eagles, gardening techniques, who got a new metal detector and what they’re finding, and who’s the best jokester in the group.&nbsp;As stories follow one after another,&nbsp;worn out&nbsp;kids and grandkids pop onto soft&nbsp;laps&nbsp;while other&nbsp;zip&nbsp;by&nbsp;to&nbsp;remind us how glad we are that they&nbsp;happily play&nbsp;outdoors and make&nbsp;new friends.Since it’s a wild game feed,&nbsp;methods&nbsp;to cook deer, elk, antelope, rabbit, turtle, snake, turkey, pheasant, duck, goose, dove, quail,&nbsp;and other&nbsp;critters&nbsp;turn into animated&nbsp;discussions. Over time, the cooks’&nbsp;skills &nbsp;evolved&nbsp;from basic grilling to gourmet dishes&nbsp;involving pasta, sun dried tomatoes, and fresh sage. I’ve never been fond of duck, but one of the original members has perfected his preparation and cooking&nbsp;so&nbsp;that his duck kebabs disappear as fast as he makes them. He’s also tweaked a twice baked deer steak that&nbsp;vanishes the minute he&nbsp;sets&nbsp;the serving dish on the&nbsp;crowded&nbsp;table. If you come late, you miss out. He’s secretive about his recipes but makes it clear preparing the game prior to cooking is&nbsp;key&nbsp;to his success. Several favorite cooks have mastered marinades that make&nbsp;spectacular&nbsp;dishes. A few years ago, a&nbsp;culinary magazine&nbsp;writer joined the festivities and put together an article&nbsp;featuring&nbsp;the Game Feed.&nbsp;You can’t have dinner without dessert and this crowd makes sure those are memorable. We expect the best ever cowboy cookies, homemade pies from fresh-picked cherries, huckleberry cheese cake, huckleberry crunch, brownies, chocolate cakes,&nbsp;fruit&nbsp;cobblers, and more. The dessert table is a diabetic’s nightmare.More than anything, this is a gathering of new and old friends who love the outdoors. They’ve found a way to celebrate their common passion that doesn’t require loved ones to dress in camo and sneak silently into a deer tree or goose blind before morning light. It’s become such a tradition that we leave saying,&nbsp;“See you next year.”&nbsp;Many thanks to Steve and Rick who started this.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: A good idea gets better with time

When asked about K12 education in the last gubernatorial debate between Democrat Governor Laura Kelly and Republican Attorney General Derek Schmidt, the responses zeroed in on “parents’ rights.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schmidt announced, if elected, he would support a parents’ rights bill. Kelly opposed, having vetoed comparable legislation.

Both Schmidt and Kelly were following the lead of their national parties. Republicans made parental rights a talking point in the fall elections and introduced a Parents’ Bill of Rights in Congress. Democrats quickly voiced opposition.&nbsp;

Democrats criticize the bill as censorship and violation of civil rights. Republicans support it as information transparency and an opportunity to protect children from unsavory ideologies.&nbsp;

&nbsp;What does this mean for Kansas? Before it’s time to vote for governor, here’s a look at the national bill and the bill Kelly vetoed.

According to Peter Greene, a writer for Forbes who spent 39 years as a teacher, the national parents bill of rights lists five rights of parents—the right to know what’s being taught, the right to be heard, the right to see school budgets and spending, the right to protect their child’s privacy and the right to be updated on any violent activity at school.&nbsp;

The national bill is hard to argue with—but wait—it’s not so simple. Provisions of the bill have evolved.

According to the Kansas Legislative Research Department, the vetoed bill required the “board of education of each school district to develop and adopt policies to guarantee parents’ rights (to include) a parent’s ability to:&nbsp;

1)&nbsp; Be informed of and inspect any materials, activities, curriculum, syllabi, surveys, questionnaires, books, magazines, handouts, professional development and training materials, and other materials provided to the parent’s child.&nbsp;

2) Inspect and review all educational and health records of the parent’s child maintained by the school district.&nbsp;

3) Object to any learning material or activity based upon harm to the child or impairment of the parent’s firmly held beliefs, values, or principles and withdraw the parent’s child from said activity; and&nbsp;

4) Challenge the material or educational benefit of any book, magazine, or other material available to students in the school library, the successful result of which is to lead to the removal of the item from the school.”&nbsp;

Educators have pointed out that, although not in any one piece of legislation,&nbsp;parents already have the right to be heard, the right to know what’s being taught, the right to protect their child’s privacy, and the right to request opt-out of classes or services.&nbsp;

There is an enormous difference between parental rights for their child and parental control of a school. Currently, no one parent or interest group has the right to veto what is taught or remove books from all children in a school.&nbsp;

Further, the Kansas bill did not include school safety—point five of the national legislation. In a state where 25 percent of the population live in rural areas, preplanned law enforcement response to each school is vital, due to the distance tactical units often must travel to confront an armed intruder.&nbsp;

School shootings across the country and student behavior issues in several Kansas schools demand a scrutinized yearly review of school safety plans—a parental right that shouldn’t be controversial.

Although there will be no more formal debates in the governor’s race, voters can still contact the candidates’ campaigns about parents’ rights.

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>When asked about K12 education in the last gubernatorial debate between Democrat Governor Laura Kelly and Republican Attorney General Derek Schmidt, the responses zeroed in on “parents’ rights.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Schmidt announced, if elected, he would support a parents’ rights bill. Kelly opposed, having vetoed comparable legislation.Both Schmidt and Kelly were following the lead of their national parties. Republicans made parental rights a talking point in the fall elections and introduced a Parents’ Bill of Rights in Congress. Democrats quickly voiced opposition.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Democrats criticize the bill as censorship and violation of civil rights. Republicans support it as information transparency and an opportunity to protect children from unsavory ideologies.&nbsp;&nbsp;What does this mean for Kansas? Before it’s time to vote for governor, here’s a look at the national bill and the bill Kelly vetoed.According to Peter Greene, a writer for Forbes who spent 39 years as a teacher, the national parents bill of rights lists five rights of parents—the right to know what’s being taught, the right to be heard, the right to see school budgets and spending, the right to protect their child’s privacy and the right to be updated on any violent activity at school.&nbsp;The national bill is hard to argue with—but wait—it’s not so simple. Provisions of the bill have evolved.According to the Kansas Legislative Research Department, the vetoed bill required the “board of education of each school district to develop and adopt policies to guarantee parents’ rights (to include) a parent’s ability to:&nbsp;1)&nbsp; Be informed of and inspect any materials, activities, curriculum, syllabi, surveys, questionnaires, books, magazines, handouts, professional development and training materials, and other materials provided to the parent’s child.&nbsp;2) Inspect and review all educational and health records of the parent’s child maintained by the school district.&nbsp;3) Object to any learning material or activity based upon harm to the child or impairment of the parent’s firmly held beliefs, values, or principles and withdraw the parent’s child from said activity; and&nbsp;4) Challenge the material or educational benefit of any book, magazine, or other material available to students in the school library, the successful result of which is to lead to the removal of the item from the school.”&nbsp;Educators have pointed out that, although not in any one piece of legislation,&nbsp;parents already have the right to be heard, the right to know what’s being taught, the right to protect their child’s privacy, and the right to request opt-out of classes or services.&nbsp;There is an enormous difference between parental rights for their child and parental control of a school. Currently, no one parent or interest group has the right to veto what is taught or remove books from all children in a school.&nbsp;Further, the Kansas bill did not include school safety—point five of the national legislation. In a state where 25 percent of the population live in rural areas, preplanned law enforcement response to each school is vital, due to the distance tactical units often must travel to confront an armed intruder.&nbsp;School shootings across the country and student behavior issues in several Kansas schools demand a scrutinized yearly review of school safety plans—a parental right that shouldn’t be controversial.Although there will be no more formal debates in the governor’s race, voters can still contact the candidates’ campaigns about parents’ rights.Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Parents’ Bill of Rights — right for Kansas or wrong?

Kansas farmers have always
endured - it is often one of the first things written in the story of who we
are. We built the farms, the towns, the economic power that brought the
railroads and we became stewards of this land. Kansas farmers have spent
generations knowing that we were keeping a promise to all those that came
before us and would come after us. We built Kansas and the cities sprung from
our success. 

Now though, that promise to the farm has become much harder to
keep even as our cities boom - and we can’t forget that it's the farmers that
put food on the table and over $8 billion in economic power to the state. 

We
have seen crises before in the farming community, the economic collapse that
nearly destroyed family farming, droughts, fires, and poor harvests - but we
are still here.

So now, why are we looking at our kids and the next generation
of farmers and asking ourselves if it is fair or worth it to ask them to keep
this promise? 

Market swings that drive up costs of fertilizers, fuel, equipment
and supplies, they all drive up the price of doing business - but these factors
pale in comparison to the costs facing young farmers. Crippling debt for
college when they pursue agriculture or related sciences and studies, housing
costs that are exponentially higher than what their parents faced, and a
business environment that requires infrastructure like high speed internet,
access to global markets, and understanding of global economic conditions.

 It's
hard to be a farmer but it doesn’t have to be this hard. 

It's time for the
politicians that are supposed to be representing our communities to do their
jobs. 

The solutions are simple, and some leaders in Kansas are focused on clean
simple solutions - but others are still spending way too much time telling us
who to be mad at instead of working for us, and that’s not how your government
should treat you. 

The Kansas House Democrats and Treasurer Lynn Rogers have
introduced a plan that helps fight back against the things drawing the next
generation of Kansas farmers away from the fields, by providing the family farm
with a tool to pay off the student loan debt that pushes these young farmers
away. 

One of the three provisions of the package is for a student loan
repayment program, or tuition reimbursement program. 

The family farm can now
offer to pay off the balance of student loans carried by your returning
graduate and receive a tax credit up to $5,250 from the state to balance the
burden. 

This package is a path towards financial
freedom for the folks in your family who want to learn about agricultural and related
fields in school and come back to put that learning to use on the farm or
another agribusiness position, but don’t have the capital to handle the debt
trap that student loans can create. They have to work for it, as it’s the
family business offering the relief and receiving the credit from the state,
but it’s a path where their hard work can pay off big. 

Passing the farm to the
next generation is how we keep Kansas farmers feeding the country for
generations to come, but in order to do that we have to give our families
pathways that aren’t a handout, but are just a little easier for our kids to
work their way down towards financial freedom and education. 

So let’s work
together to carry the farm to the next generation. Let’s support this tax
package and create pathways that encourage our next generation of farmers to
find their homes in Kansas

Democrat Lynn Rogers is the Kansas State Treasurer.&nbsp;He grew up on a large&nbsp;hog&nbsp;farm in rural Nebraska. Rogers&nbsp;is running for re-election in November.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665763423321.jpeg" alt="Lynn Rogers, Kansas State Treasurer" />
 <figcaption>Lynn Rogers, Kansas State Treasurer</figcaption>
 </figure>We can’t let this be how it ends. Kansas farmers have always
endured - it is often one of the first things written in the story of who we
are. We built the farms, the towns, the economic power that brought the
railroads and we became stewards of this land. Kansas farmers have spent
generations knowing that we were keeping a promise to all those that came
before us and would come after us. We built Kansas and the cities sprung from
our success. Now though, that promise to the farm has become much harder to
keep even as our cities boom - and we can’t forget that it's the farmers that
put food on the table and over $8 billion in economic power to the state. We
have seen crises before in the farming community, the economic collapse that
nearly destroyed family farming, droughts, fires, and poor harvests - but we
are still here.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>So now, why are we looking at our kids and the next generation
of farmers and asking ourselves if it is fair or worth it to ask them to keep
this promise? Market swings that drive up costs of fertilizers, fuel, equipment
and supplies, they all drive up the price of doing business - but these factors
pale in comparison to the costs facing young farmers. Crippling debt for
college when they pursue agriculture or related sciences and studies, housing
costs that are exponentially higher than what their parents faced, and a
business environment that requires infrastructure like high speed internet,
access to global markets, and understanding of global economic conditions. It's
hard to be a farmer but it doesn’t have to be this hard. It's time for the
politicians that are supposed to be representing our communities to do their
jobs. The solutions are simple, and some leaders in Kansas are focused on clean
simple solutions - but others are still spending way too much time telling us
who to be mad at instead of working for us, and that’s not how your government
should treat you. The Kansas House Democrats and Treasurer Lynn Rogers have
introduced a plan that helps fight back against the things drawing the next
generation of Kansas farmers away from the fields, by providing the family farm
with a tool to pay off the student loan debt that pushes these young farmers
away. One of the three provisions of the package is for a student loan
repayment program, or tuition reimbursement program. The family farm can now
offer to pay off the balance of student loans carried by your returning
graduate and receive a tax credit up to $5,250 from the state to balance the
burden. First, it just has to pass. This package is a path towards financial
freedom for the folks in your family who want to learn about agricultural and related
fields in school and come back to put that learning to use on the farm or
another agribusiness position, but don’t have the capital to handle the debt
trap that student loans can create. They have to work for it, as it’s the
family business offering the relief and receiving the credit from the state,
but it’s a path where their hard work can pay off big. Passing the farm to the
next generation is how we keep Kansas farmers feeding the country for
generations to come, but in order to do that we have to give our families
pathways that aren’t a handout, but are just a little easier for our kids to
work their way down towards financial freedom and education. So let’s work
together to carry the farm to the next generation. Let’s support this tax
package and create pathways that encourage our next generation of farmers to
find their homes in KansasDemocrat Lynn Rogers is the Kansas State Treasurer.&nbsp;He grew up on a large&nbsp;hog&nbsp;farm in rural Nebraska. Rogers&nbsp;is running for re-election in November.&nbsp;

ROGERS: Carrying the farm to the next generation

<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/2022/10/1665768424147.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

We all age. We can’t avoid the&nbsp;in<a></a>evitable. Aging&nbsp;is individualized and&nbsp;affects everyone differently. People are living longer today than ever before but how can we age well and maintain as much quality of life as we can? &nbsp;Did you know there has been research done to help us understand what makes aging better? &nbsp;

Keys to Embracing Aging&nbsp;is&nbsp;an evidenced-based&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;Research and Extension&nbsp;program&nbsp;to help people better understand aging and help people understand important lifestyle choices to help us age. &nbsp;

Keys to Embracing Aging introduces 12 healthy behavior practices that encourage optimal aging throughout the life span. The 12 keys of optimal aging include: 1. Positive Attitude 2. Eating Smart and Healthy 3. Physical Activity 4. Brain Activity 5. Social Activity 6. Tuning-in to the times 7. Safety 8. Know Your Health Numbers 9. Stress Management 10. Financial Affairs 11. Sleep 12. Taking Time for You.

Aging brings on many changes as a person develops throughout the lifespan. The way in which you take care of yourself through the years both physically and mentally will impact the way in which you age. Many of our lifestyle behaviors and choices are integrated, thus there is a strong association between healthy lifestyles, prevention and longevity.&nbsp;

Keys to Embracing Aging is information that can be shared with a wide variety of audiences of any age.&nbsp;&nbsp;This program can be adapted and made fun for people of all ages and professions. For adolescents and young adults, this is a powerful lesson that can&nbsp;reinforce healthy behaviors and lifestyles over time to live longer and healthier lives. Middle aged adults may resonate with the information because they are today’s primary caregivers to aging parents. Middle aged adults are also facing increasing changes and challenges associated with their own aging process. Older adults will benefit because it is never too late to adapt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Groups of different generations may provide for some powerful discussion.

Please let me know if you would be interested in having a presentation on any or all of the twelve topics listed above. &nbsp;They can be delivered all together or we can do one or two topics at a time.&nbsp;If individuals are interested we have fact sheets or I am available to visit.&nbsp;If you are interested in more information, please contact me. &nbsp;

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/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>We all age. We can’t avoid the&nbsp;in<a></a>evitable. Aging&nbsp;is individualized and&nbsp;affects everyone differently. People are living longer today than ever before but how can we age well and maintain as much quality of life as we can? &nbsp;Did you know there has been research done to help us understand what makes aging better? &nbsp;Keys to Embracing Aging&nbsp;is&nbsp;an evidenced-based&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;Research and Extension&nbsp;program&nbsp;to help people better understand aging and help people understand important lifestyle choices to help us age. &nbsp;Keys to Embracing Aging introduces 12 healthy behavior practices that encourage optimal aging throughout the life span. The 12 keys of optimal aging include: 1. Positive Attitude 2. Eating Smart and Healthy 3. Physical Activity 4. Brain Activity 5. Social Activity 6. Tuning-in to the times 7. Safety 8. Know Your Health Numbers 9. Stress Management 10. Financial Affairs 11. Sleep 12. Taking Time for You.Aging brings on many changes as a person develops throughout the lifespan. The way in which you take care of yourself through the years both physically and mentally will impact the way in which you age. Many of our lifestyle behaviors and choices are integrated, thus there is a strong association between healthy lifestyles, prevention and longevity.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Cottonwood extension district offers tips for healthy aging" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=e57j2-12e9112-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Keys to Embracing Aging is information that can be shared with a wide variety of audiences of any age.&nbsp;&nbsp;This program can be adapted and made fun for people of all ages and professions. For adolescents and young adults, this is a powerful lesson that can&nbsp;reinforce healthy behaviors and lifestyles over time to live longer and healthier lives. Middle aged adults may resonate with the information because they are today’s primary caregivers to aging parents. Middle aged adults are also facing increasing changes and challenges associated with their own aging process. Older adults will benefit because it is never too late to adapt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Groups of different generations may provide for some powerful discussion.Please let me know if you would be interested in having a presentation on any or all of the twelve topics listed above. &nbsp;They can be delivered all together or we can do one or two topics at a time.&nbsp;If individuals are interested we have fact sheets or I am available to visit.&nbsp;If you are interested in more information, please contact me. &nbsp;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: Keys to embracing aging

On this episode of the Post Podcast Fort Hays State University Alumni Association engagement specialist Carolyn Tatro recaps Homecoming and discusses ways FHSU alums stay connected all year long.

On this episode of the Post Podcast Fort Hays State University Alumni Association engagement specialist Carolyn Tatro recaps Homecoming and discusses ways FHSU alums stay connected all year long.<div><iframe title="FHSU Alumni Association works to keep alums connected year round" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ipqt2-12eabc4-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU Alumni Association works to keep alums connected year round

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/499e1837-6d3f-4de9-b670-e37057633022">After taking the reins of the Center for Life Experiences this
summer,</a> Executive Director Darian Schlegel has worked to expand the
organization’s programming beyond the three support groups that have helped
guide areas residents through grief and loss for decades.

That expanded programming has included hands-on activities and
the addition of support groups that deal with other traumatic experiences, like
divorce and the onset of life-changing physical ailments.

"We're really excited,” Schlegel said. “Actually, we got a lot of stuff going on, and
hopefully, we can get the community involved.”

In the months since taking over the organization, she said
the group has readjusted its mission to include more people than ever.

“We've kind of done a little rebranding at CFLE in the past
couple of months, where we're trying to do different branches of grief,”
Schlegel said. “We can experience grief outside of losing somebody to death.
And that can be through losing part of your family through divorce, or when
kids get separated from their families and enter the foster care system,
they're losing that part of their family as well. So that's a type of grief. So
we're trying to hit those different types of grief as well.”

One of the ways the organization has added to its programming
is through limited-time support series that tackle challenges facing those of
all ages and backgrounds.

“Every six to eight weeks, we do a different support group
focused on something that the community tells us that we need,” Schlegel said. 

Fostering Connections was the first and is currently
underway. The series is for children that have experienced the foster care
system.

“That is a place where kids with similar experiences can
just get to know each other and maybe even build some friendships,” Schlegel
said. “And because kids within the foster care system, it would be nice for
them to have somebody else who has kind of a similar experience, just so they
have that connection there.”

The next series will begin in November and is for those
affected by neurocognitive decline. 

“So that's like Alzheimer's disease, or even just dementia,
that type of thing,” Schlegel said. “If you have grandparents going through it,
and you want to come, maybe a parent, or if you're experiencing it yourself,
you can also come, so it's kind of open to that.”

While historically the organization has helped attendees
with grief related to loss, she said the effects of neurocognitive decline can
be equally traumatic.

“You're grieving for losing that ability that you used to
have with being able to fully mentally function,” Schlegel said. “And you're
also grieving that part of your maybe grandparent or parent who can't
necessarily remember those moments that you do with them.”

Along with the support series, the organization has launched
the CFLE Book Circle, where participants work through difficult emotional
situations while reading through a relevant book, and It’s Good to Talk, a
social support session for parents.

“It's Good to Talk starts on the 26th, and we meet from 5 p.m.
to 6:15-6:30 p.m.,” Schlegel said. “It's for parents with children on the
spectrum, or experience seeing any kind of neurodivergent, where parents can
just come and talk about how to use maybe disciplinary strategies that aren't
necessarily working for other kids and how to best learn how to help them
regulate their emotions and stuff like that.”

And a hands-on session, Bonding Through Creativity, is set
for Nov. 9.

“We're trying to give kids an opportunity to use a creative
outlet to process their emotions,” Schlegel said. “So CFLE has partnered with
the Niche Art Studio downtown (at 707) Main Street, and that will offer a place where
kids can do a create a painting, and they can take it home with them.

“But throughout that process, we'll have to stop and let
paint dry and so on, so we'll be talking about maybe struggles at school, how
to describe some emotions, and how do we come to our parents to talk about it
when we're upset, or mad or sad, and different types of things like that,
because creative outlets are good for children, and we want to offer as much of
that as possible to them,” she continued.

Changes at the organization were not limited to in-person
sessions. Its digital home, cflehope.org, also received a significant renovation.

“They can look at our events, look at the descriptions. They
can also register for events on there,” Schlegel said. “And that will give them
all the information they need from us.”

In celebration of the recent efforts, she said a ribbon
cutting is planned at 4 p.m. Oct. 20 at its location at 103 E. 27th St., Ste. C.

“We're going to be talking a little bit about our new
programs and kind of where we hope to see CFLE grow,” Schlegel said. “And
then the ribbon cutting will proceed after that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665769317522.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/499e1837-6d3f-4de9-b670-e37057633022">After taking the reins of the Center for Life Experiences this
summer,</a> Executive Director Darian Schlegel has worked to expand the
organization’s programming beyond the three support groups that have helped
guide areas residents through grief and loss for decades. That expanded programming has included hands-on activities and
the addition of support groups that deal with other traumatic experiences, like
divorce and the onset of life-changing physical ailments."We're really excited,” Schlegel said. “Actually, we got a lot of stuff going on, and
hopefully, we can get the community involved.”<div><iframe title="Center for Life Experiences adds support groups to lineup" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ym8aa-12eac07-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>In the months since taking over the organization, she said
the group has readjusted its mission to include more people than ever.“We've kind of done a little rebranding at CFLE in the past
couple of months, where we're trying to do different branches of grief,”
Schlegel said. “We can experience grief outside of losing somebody to death.
And that can be through losing part of your family through divorce, or when
kids get separated from their families and enter the foster care system,
they're losing that part of their family as well. So that's a type of grief. So
we're trying to hit those different types of grief as well.”One of the ways the organization has added to its programming
is through limited-time support series that tackle challenges facing those of
all ages and backgrounds.“Every six to eight weeks, we do a different support group
focused on something that the community tells us that we need,” Schlegel said. Fostering Connections was the first and is currently
underway. The series is for children that have experienced the foster care
system.“That is a place where kids with similar experiences can
just get to know each other and maybe even build some friendships,” Schlegel
said. “And because kids within the foster care system, it would be nice for
them to have somebody else who has kind of a similar experience, just so they
have that connection there.”The next series will begin in November and is for those
affected by neurocognitive decline. “So that's like Alzheimer's disease, or even just dementia,
that type of thing,” Schlegel said. “If you have grandparents going through it,
and you want to come, maybe a parent, or if you're experiencing it yourself,
you can also come, so it's kind of open to that.”While historically the organization has helped attendees
with grief related to loss, she said the effects of neurocognitive decline can
be equally traumatic.“You're grieving for losing that ability that you used to
have with being able to fully mentally function,” Schlegel said. “And you're
also grieving that part of your maybe grandparent or parent who can't
necessarily remember those moments that you do with them.”Along with the support series, the organization has launched
the CFLE Book Circle, where participants work through difficult emotional
situations while reading through a relevant book, and It’s Good to Talk, a
social support session for parents.“It's Good to Talk starts on the 26th, and we meet from 5 p.m.
to 6:15-6:30 p.m.,” Schlegel said. “It's for parents with children on the
spectrum, or experience seeing any kind of neurodivergent, where parents can
just come and talk about how to use maybe disciplinary strategies that aren't
necessarily working for other kids and how to best learn how to help them
regulate their emotions and stuff like that.”And a hands-on session, Bonding Through Creativity, is set
for Nov. 9.“We're trying to give kids an opportunity to use a creative
outlet to process their emotions,” Schlegel said. “So CFLE has partnered with
the Niche Art Studio downtown (at 707) Main Street, and that will offer a place where
kids can do a create a painting, and they can take it home with them.“But throughout that process, we'll have to stop and let
paint dry and so on, so we'll be talking about maybe struggles at school, how
to describe some emotions, and how do we come to our parents to talk about it
when we're upset, or mad or sad, and different types of things like that,
because creative outlets are good for children, and we want to offer as much of
that as possible to them,” she continued.Changes at the organization were not limited to in-person
sessions. Its digital home, cflehope.org, also received a significant renovation.“They can look at our events, look at the descriptions. They
can also register for events on there,” Schlegel said. “And that will give them
all the information they need from us.”In celebration of the recent efforts, she said a ribbon
cutting is planned at 4 p.m. Oct. 20 at its location at 103 E. 27th St., Ste. C.“We're going to be talking a little bit about our new
programs and kind of where we hope to see CFLE grow,” Schlegel said. “And
then the ribbon cutting will proceed after that.”

🎙 Center for Life Experiences adds support groups to lineup

United States Department of Agriculture Kansas Director for Rural Development Christy Davis this week announced that USDA is investing $5,517,200 in loans and grants toward eight community projects across the state.

One northwest Kansas project was included in the list:&nbsp;

• A $50,000 grant will assist in purchasing a fire truck on behalf of the Almena Rural Fire Department. A new brush fire truck will provide fire protection throughout Norton County and, when needed, to surrounding counties and southern Nebraska.

USDAUnited States Department of Agriculture Kansas Director for Rural Development Christy Davis this week announced that USDA is investing $5,517,200 in loans and grants toward eight community projects across the state.One northwest Kansas project was included in the list:&nbsp;• A $50,000 grant will assist in purchasing a fire truck on behalf of the Almena Rural Fire Department. A new brush fire truck will provide fire protection throughout Norton County and, when needed, to surrounding counties and southern Nebraska.

USDA will help Norton Co. fire department purchase new truck

The Hays Symphony will be presenting its annual Children’s Halloween Concert, “Disney Magic,” on Sunday, Oct. 30, at 2:30 p.m. in FHSU’s Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at FHSU.&nbsp;

Featured for the Halloween Concert this year are selections from Disney favorites such as&nbsp;Aladdin, Pirates of the Caribbean, Frozen, The Incredibles, Toy Story, Up, Cars, Ratatouille, and more. From newer hits to classic Disney tunes, the medley style mashup will sure to bring delight to concert-goers of all ages.&nbsp;

Parents are encouraged to bring their children in costume to participate in a series of hands-on music activities starting at 1:30 p.m. All pre-concert activities will begin in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center lobby.&nbsp;

Children dressed in the Halloween spirit are invited to join in the Costume Parade where they will march behind brass players leading the parade. Hays Public Library staff will lead a Musical Story Hour. FHSU’s National Association for Music Education students will assist children in Disney themed arts and crafts.&nbsp;

Youth concert-goers can try their hand at violin, viola, cello, and bass in the String Instrument Petting Zoo led by USD 489 teachers. They can also explore the other side of the orchestra and Meet the Woodwinds and Brass Families, or take to the percussion section with a hands-on Drumming Circle activity. New this year, children will be able to join Johnny Matlock (Studio 809) in Ukulele Fun.&nbsp;

As part of the Halloween festivities, concert-goers will have a chance to take photos with their favorite Disney characters through the NAfME students. The Hays Symphony will also be offering free trick-or-treat bags to the first 250 children. The post-concert trick-or-treat bags are sponsored by a generous donation from Werth Wealth Management.&nbsp;

“Disney Magic” marks the sixth year that the Hays Symphony has put on the Children’s Halloween Concert, an event which invites young people to explore hands-on the world of orchestral music through an afternoon of family friendly activities.&nbsp;

“This event also provides a rare opportunity for children from Ellis county and surrounding counties to experience a live symphony orchestra performing some of their own favorite music,” said Cathy Drabkin, cellist and chair of the symphony’s publicity committee.

“It’s one of our favorite concerts of the year," Drabkin added. “We get to dress up in costumes and share our love of music and the fun of Halloween with children and their families.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665764426477.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Hays Symphony will be presenting its annual Children’s Halloween Concert, “Disney Magic,” on Sunday, Oct. 30, at 2:30 p.m. in FHSU’s Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at FHSU.&nbsp;Featured for the Halloween Concert this year are selections from Disney favorites such as&nbsp;Aladdin, Pirates of the Caribbean, Frozen, The Incredibles, Toy Story, Up, Cars, Ratatouille, and more. From newer hits to classic Disney tunes, the medley style mashup will sure to bring delight to concert-goers of all ages.&nbsp;Parents are encouraged to bring their children in costume to participate in a series of hands-on music activities starting at 1:30 p.m. All pre-concert activities will begin in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center lobby.&nbsp;Children dressed in the Halloween spirit are invited to join in the Costume Parade where they will march behind brass players leading the parade. Hays Public Library staff will lead a Musical Story Hour. FHSU’s National Association for Music Education students will assist children in Disney themed arts and crafts.&nbsp;Youth concert-goers can try their hand at violin, viola, cello, and bass in the String Instrument Petting Zoo led by USD 489 teachers. They can also explore the other side of the orchestra and Meet the Woodwinds and Brass Families, or take to the percussion section with a hands-on Drumming Circle activity. New this year, children will be able to join Johnny Matlock (Studio 809) in Ukulele Fun.&nbsp;As part of the Halloween festivities, concert-goers will have a chance to take photos with their favorite Disney characters through the NAfME students. The Hays Symphony will also be offering free trick-or-treat bags to the first 250 children. The post-concert trick-or-treat bags are sponsored by a generous donation from Werth Wealth Management.&nbsp;“Disney Magic” marks the sixth year that the Hays Symphony has put on the Children’s Halloween Concert, an event which invites young people to explore hands-on the world of orchestral music through an afternoon of family friendly activities.&nbsp;“This event also provides a rare opportunity for children from Ellis county and surrounding counties to experience a live symphony orchestra performing some of their own favorite music,” said Cathy Drabkin, cellist and chair of the symphony’s publicity committee.“It’s one of our favorite concerts of the year," Drabkin added. “We get to dress up in costumes and share our love of music and the fun of Halloween with children and their families.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665764612909.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

'Disney Magic' at Hays Symphony's free Halloween concert

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp; announced appointments to the following state commission, council, and board. &nbsp;

988 Coordinating Council Purpose: To advise KDADS on the implementation of the 988 hot line.

Commission on Peace Officer’s Standards and Training Purpose:&nbsp;The Commission may suspend, revoke, or deny the certification of a police or law enforcement officer who fails to meet the requirements of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Act or has met such requirements by falsifying documents or failing to disclose information required for certification. Provides accredited instruction, which is required for permanent appointment of full-time police and law officers.

Kansas Water Authority Purpose:&nbsp;Review plans for the development, management and use of the water resources of the state by any state or local agency.

Kansas Animal Health Board Purpose: Acts as an advisory board to the Livestock Commission.

Kansas Dental Board Purpose: To adopt rules, issue licenses, and conduct hearings to revoke or suspend dental licenses.

KS State Library Board Purpose: Advocate for statewide library services and resources, encouraging cooperation among libraries and promoting and encouraging innovative library services

Solid Waste Grants Advisory Committee Purpose: Review competitive grant applications and establish project priority lists for reach fiscal year based upon the availability of funds.

Board of Nursing Purpose: This board is charged with protecting the public’s health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Kansas through the licensure and regulation process of the nursing professions.

State Employee Healthcare Commission Purpose: Set the insurance rates and structure for state employees.

Pet Animal Advisory Board Purpose: To make recommendations on changes to the KS Pet Animal Act.

Council on Developmental Disabilities Purpose: Monitor, review and evaluate, at least annually, the implementation of the state plan for developmental disabilities.

Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Developmental Services Purpose: Solicit information and opinions from concerned agencies, groups and individuals on proposed policies and recommendations for the delivery of health, education, and social services for young children from birth through age five with or at risk for disabling conditions and for their families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594401153901.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp; announced appointments to the following state commission, council, and board. &nbsp;988 Coordinating Council Purpose: To advise KDADS on the implementation of the 988 hot line.<ul>
 <li>Andy Brown, Topeka</li><li>Sheriff Gene Ward, Liberal</li><li>Zack Odell, Colby</li><li>James “Paul” Davis, Gardner</li><li>Colin Thomassett, Topeka</li><li>Molly Perkins, Olathe</li>
 </ul>Commission on Peace Officer’s Standards and Training Purpose:&nbsp;The Commission may suspend, revoke, or deny the certification of a police or law enforcement officer who fails to meet the requirements of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Act or has met such requirements by falsifying documents or failing to disclose information required for certification. Provides accredited instruction, which is required for permanent appointment of full-time police and law officers.<ul>
 <li>Sheriff Roger Soldan, Salina (reappointment)</li><li>Sheriff Cole Presley, Hill City (reappointment)</li><li>Sheriff Jeff Herrig, Ozawkie (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>Kansas Water Authority Purpose:&nbsp;Review plans for the development, management and use of the water resources of the state by any state or local agency.<ul>
 <li>Pete Loecke, Rose Hill</li><li>David Stroberg, Hutchinson (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>Kansas Animal Health Board Purpose: Acts as an advisory board to the Livestock Commission.<ul>
 <li>Melissa Hildebrand-Reed, Abilene (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>Kansas Dental Board Purpose: To adopt rules, issue licenses, and conduct hearings to revoke or suspend dental licenses.<ul>
 <li>Jonas Lichty, Wichita</li>
 </ul>KS State Library Board Purpose: Advocate for statewide library services and resources, encouraging cooperation among libraries and promoting and encouraging innovative library services<ul>
 <li>Richard Brookman, Bucklin</li>
 </ul>Solid Waste Grants Advisory Committee Purpose: Review competitive grant applications and establish project priority lists for reach fiscal year based upon the availability of funds.<ul>
 <li>James Teutsch, Salina (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>Board of Nursing Purpose: This board is charged with protecting the public’s health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Kansas through the licensure and regulation process of the nursing professions.<ul>
 <li>Michaela Hysten, Kansas City</li>
 </ul>State Employee Healthcare Commission Purpose: Set the insurance rates and structure for state employees.<ul>
 <li>Cristi Cain, Topeka</li>
 </ul>Pet Animal Advisory Board Purpose: To make recommendations on changes to the KS Pet Animal Act.<ul>
 <li>Kathy Engler, Leavenworth</li>
 </ul>Council on Developmental Disabilities Purpose: Monitor, review and evaluate, at least annually, the implementation of the state plan for developmental disabilities.<ul>
 <li>Colin Olenick, Olathe</li>
 </ul>Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Developmental Services Purpose: Solicit information and opinions from concerned agencies, groups and individuals on proposed policies and recommendations for the delivery of health, education, and social services for young children from birth through age five with or at risk for disabling conditions and for their families.<ul>
 <li>Tayler Cantrell, Topeka</li>
 </ul>

NW Kansans appointed by governor to state council, commission

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665768394575.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>

As it was pointed out in the Fiction vs Fact letter published in Hays Post, Sept. 30, my Democratic opponent continues to believe that if he states his opinion enough times that people will somehow believe it is fact. &nbsp;But the voters of Ellis County are smarter than that.

As it was pointed out in the Fiction vs Fact letter published in Hays Post, Sept. 30, my Democratic opponent continues to believe that if he states his opinion enough times that people will somehow believe it is fact. &nbsp;But the voters of Ellis County are smarter than that.He says that I will not support Obamacare Expansion and he also claims that Fort Hays show receive $20 million to $30 million in additional funding per year. &nbsp;The following are my actual and stated positions on each issue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FACT:​​ I am not against the idea of Obamacare expansion itself. But so far legislation to expand Obamacare proposed in the state House has&nbsp;not&nbsp;included&nbsp;the three things that need to be addressed in a financially responsible way:&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;Work Requirement Issue – Obamacare expansion almost forces applicants to not work and penalizes those who make too much money; 2. &nbsp;Making sure expansion legislation doesn’t push the disabled population further down the list of applicants; and 3. include&nbsp;an automatic trigger if the federal government reimbursement rate falls below 90%.FACT: &nbsp;​​It is absolute fact that Fort Hays gets full funding for the programs that it provides its students. It is also true that my opponent’s claim is not&nbsp;based in reality. His&nbsp;opinion is based on a comparison with Wichita State University that compares&nbsp;apples to oranges. This session Fort Hays got an additional&nbsp;$5 million to renovate Gross Memorial&nbsp;Coliseum as well as&nbsp;$500,000 for their cybersecurity&nbsp;program. &nbsp;Also in 2022, higher education received $160 million to cover revenue not received from tuition increases. &nbsp;Neither the Regents nor the governor pushed for Fort Hays,&nbsp;but&nbsp;I did. &nbsp;The choice is clear on Nov. 8. &nbsp;Vote for someone who works for you,&nbsp;and advocates for our community. &nbsp;Vote for&nbsp;me,&nbsp;Barb Wasinger.State Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays