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By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays Senior Center has a new manager and is trying to relaunch its slate of programs.

Ray Makings was named the new part-time manager at the end of September. Prior to his hiring, Makings was a volunteer delivery driver for the center's meal service.

The senior center, 2450 E. Eighth, was closed except for meal service from March 2020 through October 2020. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and is geared toward residents 60 and older.

Makings said the hours could be expanded if the number of participates and activities increase.

The center follows COVID guidelines as released by the Ellis County Health Department.

"We want to open this place up," Guy Windholz, board president, said. "There is a high demand for socialization. People want to mingle with their friends. They want to play cards."

Before the pandemic, the center had 40 to 60 people who were attending events on a regular basis. Today, they have about 15.

The pandemic has isolated many seniors, Windholz said.

"Socialization is a mentally healthy thing to do, and people are desperate for that," Windholz said.

Jane Dopheid, board secretary, said she knows what it's like to feel alone.

"We want people to feel like they have a place to go and visit with people and get out of their homes," she said. 

"I know what it's like because my husband passed away last year in January, not from COVID, but when you're all alone ... I don't suffer from it that much, but I know people who do. They're just heartsick."

The center already has a variety of activities in which seniors can participate, including bingo, bridge, dominoes and pinochle. It has the ability to accommodate other card and board games. General activities like card games or bingo don't require reservations. Special events may require an RSVP.

The center has a pool table and tables set up for puzzles.

In the past the center has had regular celebrations, including parties for St. Patrick's Day, Veterans Day and Memorial Day.

Makings said he hopes to invite musical groups to play or sing at the center, offer a class on using technology or dance classes.

The center in the past has also invited children to read with the adults.

Makings and the senior center board is seeking ideas of what activities their peers would like to see at the senior center. You can contact Makings at 785-628-6644.

The center has had volunteers visit the center to provide blood pressure checks. Makings said he would like to see that expanded to a regular offering or perhaps a larger health fair for seniors.

The center is seeking volunteers who may want to host other activities or classes for the seniors.

The Hays Senior Center participates in a hot meals program through the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging. However, the meals are prepared in Russell. 

The senior center board would like to be able to prepare the meals at and distribute them from the Hays Senior Center. However, Ray said the program would need more volunteers to do so.

Meals cost $3.50 per senior, but seniors will not be refused meals for inability to pay. Seniors can have meals delivered or eat at the center. You will need to call a day in advance to reserve your meal. Guests younger than 60 can eat with seniors. Cost is $6.50.

The center is averaging about 16 people eating on site Mondays through Fridays. Another 80 meals are being delivered in the community.

Menus are read daily on the KAYS Morning Show 1400 AM or 94.3 FM. Monthly menus are also available at the senior center.

The senior center is a non-profit. It receives funds from the United Way of Ellis County, the City of Hays and Ellis County. Beyond that, the center has a limited ability to raise funds, Windholz said. 

Local businesses have donated small gifts to be used as bingo door prizes, and the center always welcomes other donations.

The center board members have considered renting the facility for events.

The Hays Senior Center board has been in discussions with Grow Hays, which is looking for an investor for a housing development for retirees near HaysMed.

One option would be to move the senior center from its current building on Old Highway 40 to the more central location on Canterbury.

The senior center has a yearly lease for the building it's in now.

Windholz said the current location is not ideal because it isn't centrally located and its located off a busy highway, which can be an issue for some older drivers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377036199.jpeg" alt="Seniors playing dominoes at the Hays Area Senior Center. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Seniors playing dominoes at the Hays Area Senior Center. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Senior Center has a new manager and is trying to relaunch its slate of programs.Ray Makings was named the new part-time manager at the end of September. Prior to his hiring, Makings was a volunteer delivery driver for the center's meal service. The senior center, 2450 E. Eighth, was closed except for meal service from March 2020 through October 2020. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and is geared toward residents 60 and older.Makings said the hours could be expanded if the number of participates and activities increase. The center follows COVID guidelines as released by the Ellis County Health Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633376863161.jpeg" alt="Hays Senior Center school pride day. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Hays Senior Center school pride day. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure>"We want to open this place up," Guy Windholz, board president, said. "There is a high demand for socialization. People want to mingle with their friends. They want to play cards."Before the pandemic, the center had 40 to 60 people who were attending events on a regular basis. Today, they have about 15.The pandemic has isolated many seniors, Windholz said. "Socialization is a mentally healthy thing to do, and people are desperate for that," Windholz said.Jane Dopheid, board secretary, said she knows what it's like to feel alone."We want people to feel like they have a place to go and visit with people and get out of their homes," she said. "I know what it's like because my husband passed away last year in January, not from COVID, but when you're all alone ... I don't suffer from it that much, but I know people who do. They're just heartsick."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633376966042.jpeg" alt="Bingo at the Hays Senior Center. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Bingo at the Hays Senior Center. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>The center already has a variety of activities in which seniors can participate, including bingo, bridge, dominoes and pinochle. It has the ability to accommodate other card and board games. General activities like card games or bingo don't require reservations. Special events may require an RSVP. The center has a pool table and tables set up for puzzles.In the past the center has had regular celebrations, including parties for St. Patrick's Day, Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Makings said he hopes to invite musical groups to play or sing at the center, offer a class on using technology or dance classes. The center in the past has also invited children to read with the adults.Makings and the senior center board is seeking ideas of what activities their peers would like to see at the senior center. You can contact Makings at 785-628-6644.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377101549.jpeg" alt="Judy Salm reading to a child at the Hays Senior Center. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Judy Salm reading to a child at the Hays Senior Center. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Volunteers needed </h2>The center has had volunteers visit the center to provide blood pressure checks. Makings said he would like to see that expanded to a regular offering or perhaps a larger health fair for seniors.The center is seeking volunteers who may want to host other activities or classes for the seniors. <h2>Meals</h2>The Hays Senior Center participates in a hot meals program through the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging. However, the meals are prepared in Russell. The senior center board would like to be able to prepare the meals at and distribute them from the Hays Senior Center. However, Ray said the program would need more volunteers to do so.Meals cost $3.50 per senior, but seniors will not be refused meals for inability to pay. Seniors can have meals delivered or eat at the center. You will need to call a day in advance to reserve your meal. Guests younger than 60 can eat with seniors. Cost is $6.50.The center is averaging about 16 people eating on site Mondays through Fridays. Another 80 meals are being delivered in the community. Menus are read daily on the KAYS Morning Show 1400 AM or 94.3 FM. Monthly menus are also available at the senior center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377182853.jpeg" alt="Bonnie Ginther puts together a puzzle at the Hays Senior Center. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Bonnie Ginther puts together a puzzle at the Hays Senior Center. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Limited funding</h2>The senior center is a non-profit. It receives funds from the United Way of Ellis County, the City of Hays and Ellis County. Beyond that, the center has a limited ability to raise funds, Windholz said. Local businesses have donated small gifts to be used as bingo door prizes, and the center always welcomes other donations.The center board members have considered renting the facility for events.<h2>The future</h2>The Hays Senior Center board has been in discussions with Grow Hays, which is looking for an investor for a housing development for retirees near HaysMed.One option would be to move the senior center from its current building on Old Highway 40 to the more central location on Canterbury.The senior center has a yearly lease for the building it's in now. Windholz said the current location is not ideal because it isn't centrally located and its located off a busy highway, which can be an issue for some older drivers.

Hays Senior Center hires new manager, seeks to ramp up activities

Editor's note: The following questions were submitted to candidates for the USD 489 school board by the Hays NEA. The questions and answers are being posted as submitted with the permission of the Hays NEA and the candidates.

Three positions are up for election. Also running are Ken Brooks, Casey Herrman,&nbsp;Curt Vajnar, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.Cathy Hopkins

Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education.&nbsp;What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate?&nbsp; I am seeking a position on the BOE to engage in my community and bring my passion of life time learning into this arena.&nbsp;

I don’t believe any one candidate/board member holds all the qualifications necessary for being on a school board. I do believe each of us have strengths and talents that when combined and used for the goal of supporting parents/ families, teachers/staff to provide a quality education to the children- we all win.&nbsp; There’s no way this happens without the hard work of collaborating -throwing all we have into the mix. Humbly asking of each other, vulnerably sharing, and purposefully listening. Transparency creates trust. Trust builds strength.

&nbsp;What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today? In Kansas? In USD 489? I have a lot to learn about all the workings of a BOE. And I’m passionate about doing so. I have raised six children, ran my own small business, worked for the Hays Chamber of Commerce, worked with and for attorneys, trained and supervised others - I recognize there can be many ways to get to the same end goal, but the goal must be agreed upon to even begin to reach it.&nbsp;

In the broad landscape of our country I see politics has encroached on education. This didn’t happen over night but it has certainly become more evident. I do not know what this looks like in our schools here but it honestly concerns me. I read somewhere recently that if students know the political viewpoints of their teacher, then the teacher has failed. While students should definitely be able to see character traits in their teachers, I don’t know that they should ever have the thought or question regarding the teacher’s politics.

Is education not for empowering children to discover who they are, what their talents are, what interests them and makes them passionate? To empower them to be able to become amazing adults who will one day take upon themselves the running of our schools, cities, counties, states etc?

How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? ... to teachers? ... to students? Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to day operations?

What philospophy /core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? The weakest thing we can do, I believe, is what we’ve always done just because we’ve always done it that way. Questions have to be asked - systems and processes looked at. However we do not change for the sake of change. This can be a fine line but a challenge that can be met if each board member is all in. Unity can be a strong catalyst for change where change is needed. Without it (unity) we all fail and therefore fail the kids, parents, teachers, staff and community of 489.&nbsp;

The BOE members should be a real team, transparently working together for the goal of understanding: the budget fully, therefore the use of the citizens tax dollars, involved in the curriculum in our schools, and the overall process for ensuring quality educators and staff.&nbsp;

What is your position on 1-to-1 Techonolgy for K-12. What changes, if any would you like to see? What do our kids say about what’s happening in their classrooms? Is 1-1 technology working for them? What are the parents seeing? Have we asked? If yes, have we listened to the answers?&nbsp;

My kids were at the beginning of the device handing out .... there are negatives and positives that come with constant screen time and online usage.&nbsp;

Do the devices help or hinder individual learning styles? Bring out creativity or hinder it?&nbsp;

I did speak to an 8th grader, my grandson, and asked him about the iPad usage. He told me so far this year they have been on them less hours in their school day and he is very glad of that. Last year was a lot he stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;So that tells me we may&nbsp;need to look at what they are being used for and there may need to be a balance found.&nbsp;When I asked my daughter, she spoke of the pediatricians comments on screen time, how it is actually like a drug (cocaine was specifically mentioned) and can be harmful and must be watched carefully.&nbsp;

As a tool in a world of technology I definitely see the point of using them. But everything good has it’s bad as well. That is simply the truth overall in our world.&nbsp;

What’s important to me also, is what you believe you are seeing in the classroom. What differences, especially for those who have taught long enough to watch the 1-1 come into play, do the devices make in actually advancing learning in our children?

Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. The change I would like to enact or see first is about the Board itself, and how it operates, becoming more of a team while not being clones of one another but truly pooling (experiences, passions, strengths) together to and for the betterment of all in USD 489.&nbsp;

We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers. How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal?

What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success? What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I look forward to seeing the information put together by the DLR Group regarding their assessment of our schools and the possible answers to said assessment.&nbsp;

I have been asking others about previous failed bond issues.... the main response I have received is lack of trust for those holding the purse strings. Therefore, I feel this is a very foundational issue to look at so we can move forward. I don’t believe anyone argues the fact our school buildings need work... obviously there is concern on that cost and the handling of those dollars. Questions are being asked, are they being heard and answered?&nbsp; How can the board/district recruit quality teachers? What could the board do to imporve teacher morale? I firmly believe the board members need to be in the schools. Often.

I do believe this will improve teacher morale, at least to some extent, if the BOE is seen, truly seen to care and be present in their world. Is it not what the BOE is all about... education?

I want to get in the schools, meet teachers so you are all real people; not nameless, faceless entities that are discussed through numbers in a meeting. And that is not to take on the role of principals or the superintendent but to build relationships and gain understanding.&nbsp;

A strong active board can help in teacher recruitment and retention, It shows the community cares about its public education system.&nbsp;

How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining? What role do you see yourself taking in this process? I believe collective bargaining on both sides is important and beneficial, again as long as all involved are willing to truly hear the other until understanding is gained and move forward from there. Hopefully anyone involved is there to assist and not bring stonewalling or division.

Editor's note: The following questions were submitted to candidates for the USD 489 school board by the Hays NEA. The questions and answers are being posted as submitted with the permission of the Hays NEA and the candidates.Three positions are up for election. Also running are Ken Brooks, Casey Herrman,&nbsp;Curt Vajnar, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.Cathy Hopkins<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633108318469.png" alt="Cathy Hopkins" />
 <figcaption>Cathy Hopkins</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Cathy Hopkins</h2>Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education.&nbsp;What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate?&nbsp; I am seeking a position on the BOE to engage in my community and bring my passion of life time learning into this arena.&nbsp;I don’t believe any one candidate/board member holds all the qualifications necessary for being on a school board. I do believe each of us have strengths and talents that when combined and used for the goal of supporting parents/ families, teachers/staff to provide a quality education to the children- we all win.&nbsp; There’s no way this happens without the hard work of collaborating -throwing all we have into the mix. Humbly asking of each other, vulnerably sharing, and purposefully listening. Transparency creates trust. Trust builds strength.&nbsp;What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today? In Kansas? In USD 489? I have a lot to learn about all the workings of a BOE. And I’m passionate about doing so. I have raised six children, ran my own small business, worked for the Hays Chamber of Commerce, worked with and for attorneys, trained and supervised others - I recognize there can be many ways to get to the same end goal, but the goal must be agreed upon to even begin to reach it.&nbsp;In the broad landscape of our country I see politics has encroached on education. This didn’t happen over night but it has certainly become more evident. I do not know what this looks like in our schools here but it honestly concerns me. I read somewhere recently that if students know the political viewpoints of their teacher, then the teacher has failed. While students should definitely be able to see character traits in their teachers, I don’t know that they should ever have the thought or question regarding the teacher’s politics. Is education not for empowering children to discover who they are, what their talents are, what interests them and makes them passionate? To empower them to be able to become amazing adults who will one day take upon themselves the running of our schools, cities, counties, states etc?How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? ... to teachers? ... to students? Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to day operations?What philospophy /core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? The weakest thing we can do, I believe, is what we’ve always done just because we’ve always done it that way. Questions have to be asked - systems and processes looked at. However we do not change for the sake of change. This can be a fine line but a challenge that can be met if each board member is all in. Unity can be a strong catalyst for change where change is needed. Without it (unity) we all fail and therefore fail the kids, parents, teachers, staff and community of 489.&nbsp;The BOE members should be a real team, transparently working together for the goal of understanding: the budget fully, therefore the use of the citizens tax dollars, involved in the curriculum in our schools, and the overall process for ensuring quality educators and staff.&nbsp;What is your position on 1-to-1 Techonolgy for K-12. What changes, if any would you like to see? What do our kids say about what’s happening in their classrooms? Is 1-1 technology working for them? What are the parents seeing? Have we asked? If yes, have we listened to the answers?&nbsp; My kids were at the beginning of the device handing out .... there are negatives and positives that come with constant screen time and online usage.&nbsp; Do the devices help or hinder individual learning styles? Bring out creativity or hinder it?&nbsp; I did speak to an 8th grader, my grandson, and asked him about the iPad usage. He told me so far this year they have been on them less hours in their school day and he is very glad of that. Last year was a lot he stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;So that tells me we may&nbsp;need to look at what they are being used for and there may need to be a balance found.&nbsp;When I asked my daughter, she spoke of the pediatricians comments on screen time, how it is actually like a drug (cocaine was specifically mentioned) and can be harmful and must be watched carefully.&nbsp; As a tool in a world of technology I definitely see the point of using them. But everything good has it’s bad as well. That is simply the truth overall in our world.&nbsp; What’s important to me also, is what you believe you are seeing in the classroom. What differences, especially for those who have taught long enough to watch the 1-1 come into play, do the devices make in actually advancing learning in our children?Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. The change I would like to enact or see first is about the Board itself, and how it operates, becoming more of a team while not being clones of one another but truly pooling (experiences, passions, strengths) together to and for the betterment of all in USD 489.&nbsp;We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers. How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success? What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I look forward to seeing the information put together by the DLR Group regarding their assessment of our schools and the possible answers to said assessment.&nbsp; I have been asking others about previous failed bond issues.... the main response I have received is lack of trust for those holding the purse strings. Therefore, I feel this is a very foundational issue to look at so we can move forward. I don’t believe anyone argues the fact our school buildings need work... obviously there is concern on that cost and the handling of those dollars. Questions are being asked, are they being heard and answered?&nbsp; How can the board/district recruit quality teachers? What could the board do to imporve teacher morale? I firmly believe the board members need to be in the schools. Often. I do believe this will improve teacher morale, at least to some extent, if the BOE is seen, truly seen to care and be present in their world. Is it not what the BOE is all about... education?I want to get in the schools, meet teachers so you are all real people; not nameless, faceless entities that are discussed through numbers in a meeting. And that is not to take on the role of principals or the superintendent but to build relationships and gain understanding.&nbsp;A strong active board can help in teacher recruitment and retention, It shows the community cares about its public education system.&nbsp;How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining? What role do you see yourself taking in this process? I believe collective bargaining on both sides is important and beneficial, again as long as all involved are willing to truly hear the other until understanding is gained and move forward from there. Hopefully anyone involved is there to assist and not bring stonewalling or division. Other comments

USD 489 candidate profile: Cathy Hopkins

Three positions are up for election. Also running are Ken Brooks, Casey Herrman,&nbsp;Cathy Hopkins, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.

Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education. I want the best possible education for all students attending USD 489. &nbsp; This would include my children (Junior at HHS, 8th Grader at HMS, &amp; 3rd Grader at Wilson Elementary) as well.

What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate? I taught 31 years in USD 489, Kansas Teacher of the Year, National Board Certification.&nbsp; Kansas teaching endorsements in: Agriculture Education, Biology, Drivers Education, &amp; Administration.

What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today In Kansas? Teacher shortages and retention, Loss of knowledge due to COVID, Curriculum In USD 489? Teacher shortages and retention, knowledge loss from COVID, lack and quality of facilities, access to classrooms for educators prior to school.

How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? The best and appropriate use of funds and facilities, Superintendents doing his/her jobs. &nbsp;… to teachers &amp; students? Help provide the best educational environment for every teacher and every student every day.

Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to-day operations? Overseeing and approving policy, which does affect day-to-day operations.

What philosophy/core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? Is the decision best for the students of USD 489?

What is your position on 1-to-1 technology for K-12? Technology is essential to education today. What changes, if any, would you like to see? Technology staff availability to teachers and students, faster repairs or replacements, individual in-service or help for educators with technology &amp; programs.

Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. Board meeting professionalism, use of meeting bylaws and rules, some sort of parliamentary procedure needs to be followed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers.&nbsp; How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? Due process for teacher improvement handled in a fair and supportive manner would be great. I know and have known many phenomenal educators at USD 489. But sadly, I know and have known a few teachers that need/needed improvement.

What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success? They desperately need improved or updated. Extremely disheartening when you visit the other schools in the Western Athletic Conference.&nbsp; Would like our students to have the same opportunities; educationally, athletically, and with extra-curricular events as other schools.

What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I think passing a bond issue is critical. It has been 30+ years since a bond issue has been passed. We’ve had bond issues fail in June 2016 and Nov. 2017. A survey conducted by Excellencek12, that was done in March 2021 does show that 68% would support a bond. Lincoln Elementary is over 90 years old and are newest facility is Hays High School is 40 years old. &nbsp; If a bond issue is needed, then we keep proposing one often to hopefully convince the community of our need.

How can the board/district recruit and retain quality teachers? Invest in student teachers a semester trial run is a better measurer of quality than a 30-minute interview.&nbsp; Have teacher openings posted early – lets pick from the top of the class. I suggested a financial incentive for teachers to complete their retirement papers early when applying to fill Sophia Young’s vacated BOE position. I recently found out this financial incentive was part of this year’s negotiations.

What could the board do to improve teacher morale? Hire dynamic and enthusiastic administrators. Teachers also play a big role in their morale.

How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining? Best method of negotiating that I have experienced as a teacher.

What role do you see yourself taking in this process? First, I would like to see certified staff, classified staff, and administrative raises be stated in dollar amounts and not percentages.&nbsp; A 3% raise on $15,000 and a 3% raise on a $125,000 salary is not the same. &nbsp; I do care about all of our staff and feel they should all be treated fairly.

Other comments I hope as a board member that I would be known for doing what right and fair to improve the education of all of our students.

Editor's note: The following questions were submitted to candidates for the USD 489 school board by the Hays NEA. The questions and answers are being posted as submitted with the permission of the Hays NEA and the candidates.Three positions are up for election. Also running are Ken Brooks, Casey Herrman,&nbsp;Cathy Hopkins, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.<h2>Curt Vajnar</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632779605114.png" alt="Curt Vajnar" />
 <figcaption>Curt Vajnar</figcaption>
 </figure>Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education. I want the best possible education for all students attending USD 489. &nbsp; This would include my children (Junior at HHS, 8th Grader at HMS, &amp; 3rd Grader at Wilson Elementary) as well. What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate? I taught 31 years in USD 489, Kansas Teacher of the Year, National Board Certification.&nbsp; Kansas teaching endorsements in: Agriculture Education, Biology, Drivers Education, &amp; Administration.What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today In Kansas? Teacher shortages and retention, Loss of knowledge due to COVID, Curriculum In USD 489? Teacher shortages and retention, knowledge loss from COVID, lack and quality of facilities, access to classrooms for educators prior to school.How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? The best and appropriate use of funds and facilities, Superintendents doing his/her jobs. &nbsp;… to teachers &amp; students? Help provide the best educational environment for every teacher and every student every day.Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to-day operations? Overseeing and approving policy, which does affect day-to-day operations.What philosophy/core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? Is the decision best for the students of USD 489?What is your position on 1-to-1 technology for K-12? Technology is essential to education today. What changes, if any, would you like to see? Technology staff availability to teachers and students, faster repairs or replacements, individual in-service or help for educators with technology &amp; programs.Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. Board meeting professionalism, use of meeting bylaws and rules, some sort of parliamentary procedure needs to be followed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers.&nbsp; How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? Due process for teacher improvement handled in a fair and supportive manner would be great. I know and have known many phenomenal educators at USD 489. But sadly, I know and have known a few teachers that need/needed improvement.What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success? They desperately need improved or updated. Extremely disheartening when you visit the other schools in the Western Athletic Conference.&nbsp; Would like our students to have the same opportunities; educationally, athletically, and with extra-curricular events as other schools.What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I think passing a bond issue is critical. It has been 30+ years since a bond issue has been passed. We’ve had bond issues fail in June 2016 and Nov. 2017. A survey conducted by Excellencek12, that was done in March 2021 does show that 68% would support a bond. Lincoln Elementary is over 90 years old and are newest facility is Hays High School is 40 years old. &nbsp; If a bond issue is needed, then we keep proposing one often to hopefully convince the community of our need.How can the board/district recruit and retain quality teachers? Invest in student teachers a semester trial run is a better measurer of quality than a 30-minute interview.&nbsp; Have teacher openings posted early – lets pick from the top of the class. I suggested a financial incentive for teachers to complete their retirement papers early when applying to fill Sophia Young’s vacated BOE position. I recently found out this financial incentive was part of this year’s negotiations.What could the board do to improve teacher morale? Hire dynamic and enthusiastic administrators. Teachers also play a big role in their morale.How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining? Best method of negotiating that I have experienced as a teacher.What role do you see yourself taking in this process? First, I would like to see certified staff, classified staff, and administrative raises be stated in dollar amounts and not percentages.&nbsp; A 3% raise on $15,000 and a 3% raise on a $125,000 salary is not the same. &nbsp; I do care about all of our staff and feel they should all be treated fairly.Other comments I hope as a board member that I would be known for doing what right and fair to improve the education of all of our students.

USD 489 candidate profile: Curt Vajnar

Clarification: Wednesday Oct. 6: Clarification for the Hays Public Libraries service area.

TOPEKA — Humanities Kansas recently awarded a SHARP Recovery Grant in the amount of $12,400 to Hays Public Library. Hays Public Library Director Brandon Hines serves as project director. The Hays Public Library is part of the Central Kansas Library System, which has a service are that covers over 170,000 people. The library has expanded its community outreach to include delivery and pick-up services and a bookmobile. Rotating book collections are provided to schools and senior care facilities, and the library annually hosts hundreds of programs for all ages. &nbsp;

The SHARP Recovery Grants support Kansas cultural organizations that provide humanities programming and are facing financial hardship due to the coronavirus. Grants are for general operating support, staff retention, and needed digital and/or operational transitions for cultural work in the post-pandemic era. Humanities Kansas awarded 121 SHARP grants statewide.

“Humanities Kansas is honored to be able to support Kansas cultural organizations as we recover from the impact of Covid,” said Julie Mulvihill, Humanities Kansas Executive Director. “This past year has demonstrated that Kansans lean into the humanities during challenging times. Kansas cultural organizations that do work in the humanities provide important social connections and contribute to the economic well-being and strength of our communities.”

Funds have been made available through the National Endowment for the Humanities to assist cultural institutions affected by the coronavirus as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) approved by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Joseph R. Biden.&nbsp;

About Humanities Kansas Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit spearheading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, HK's pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with statewide partners and supporters, HK inspires all Kansans to draw on diverse histories, literatures, and cultures to enrich their lives and to serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578606002336.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clarification: Wednesday Oct. 6: Clarification for the Hays Public Libraries service area. HPLTOPEKA — Humanities Kansas recently awarded a SHARP Recovery Grant in the amount of $12,400 to Hays Public Library. Hays Public Library Director Brandon Hines serves as project director. The Hays Public Library is part of the Central Kansas Library System, which has a service are that covers over 170,000 people. The library has expanded its community outreach to include delivery and pick-up services and a bookmobile. Rotating book collections are provided to schools and senior care facilities, and the library annually hosts hundreds of programs for all ages. &nbsp;The SHARP Recovery Grants support Kansas cultural organizations that provide humanities programming and are facing financial hardship due to the coronavirus. Grants are for general operating support, staff retention, and needed digital and/or operational transitions for cultural work in the post-pandemic era. Humanities Kansas awarded 121 SHARP grants statewide.“Humanities Kansas is honored to be able to support Kansas cultural organizations as we recover from the impact of Covid,” said Julie Mulvihill, Humanities Kansas Executive Director. “This past year has demonstrated that Kansans lean into the humanities during challenging times. Kansas cultural organizations that do work in the humanities provide important social connections and contribute to the economic well-being and strength of our communities.”Funds have been made available through the National Endowment for the Humanities to assist cultural institutions affected by the coronavirus as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) approved by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Joseph R. Biden.&nbsp;About Humanities Kansas Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit spearheading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, HK's pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with statewide partners and supporters, HK inspires all Kansans to draw on diverse histories, literatures, and cultures to enrich their lives and to serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.&nbsp;

Hays library receives Humanities Kansas recovery grant

Three-day weather outlook

SCOTT COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 11a.m. Monday in Scott County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Blazer driven by Karl A. Gordon, 49, Castle Rock, CO., was northbound on U.S. 83 at the Kansas 95 Junction.

The Blazer traveled into the southbound lanes attempting to pass an oversized load in a no passing zone.

The Blazer collided head-on with a southbound Chevy Silverado driven by Charles C. Lozar, 62, Satanta, Kansas.

Gordon was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Price and Sons Funeral Home in Scott City. EMS transported Lozar to Wesley Medical Center. Lozar was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

SCOTT COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 11a.m. Monday in Scott County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Blazer driven by Karl A. Gordon, 49, Castle Rock, CO., was northbound on U.S. 83 at the Kansas 95 Junction.The Blazer traveled into the southbound lanes attempting to pass an oversized load in a no passing zone.The Blazer collided head-on with a southbound Chevy Silverado driven by Charles C. Lozar, 62, Satanta, Kansas.Gordon was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Price and Sons Funeral Home in Scott City. EMS transported Lozar to Wesley Medical Center. Lozar was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

1 dead, 1 hospitalized after head-on crash in no passing zone

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 18 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 593 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

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

As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported 16 COVID-19 inpatients.

The KDHE reported Monday 50 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 61 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,397 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633370252745.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 18 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 593 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported 16 COVID-19 inpatients.The KDHE reported Monday 50 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 61 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,397 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 18 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Friday

Shorman emphasizes SBA loan access, need for ESOP education and the impact of DOL's lack of guidance

WASHINGTON — During a Congressional hearing held today by the U.S. House Small Business Committee,&nbsp;TEA Immediate Past Chair and Chairman of Eagle Communications, Gary Shorman, discussed the importance of Employee Ownership, the need for quick access to Small Business Administration loans, and the chilling effect of the Department of Labor’s lack of guidance on ESOP formation.

During Shorman’s testimony, he asked Congress to:

“As Chairwoman Velazquez noted, a recent Employee Ownership Foundation study found employee-owned businesses not only survived but in many cases were able to adapt and thrive despite the pandemic.” Said Jim Bonham, President and CEO of The ESOP Association. “A business model that is so resilient and truly benefits the American worker should continue to be accessible, especially given the looming wave of retirements known as the ‘Silver Tsunami’. Including ESOPs in the preferred lending program will ensure more businesses have access to the capital they need when transitioning to employee ownership.”

“Despite all of these strengths, and their deep roots within our local economies and business communities, there remain far too many unnecessary obstacles to new ESOP formation or expansion of existing ESOPs,” said Shorman during his testimony.&nbsp;

Committee Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez (D-NY)—who introduced the Main Street Employee Ownership Act three years ago—concluded the hearing by stating, “If we generally want to help the American people build back better, we must promote policies to empower American workers. Employee-owned businesses merge ownership and employees’ interests helping to create a symbiotic relationship where everyone thrives.&nbsp;As ESOPs and cooperatives become more prominent, the American workforce will benefit.”

Full <a href="https://smallbusiness.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=4008">video of the hearing&nbsp;</a>and written testimony can be found <a href="https://smallbusiness.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=4008">online</a>.

About the ESOP Association 
The ESOP Association is the largest organization in the world supporting employee-owned companies, the more than 10 million U.S. employees who participate in an ESOP, and the professionals who provide services to them. Headquartered at the International Employee Ownership Center in&nbsp;Washington, DC&nbsp;and operating as a 501(c)6 organization with the affiliated Employee Ownership Foundation, The ESOP Association conducts and funds academic research, provides more than 160 annual conferences and events attended by nearly 15,000 individuals, and advocates on behalf of employee owners and their businesses to federal and state lawmakers.

About Eagle Communications 
Eagle Communications is a 100% employee-owned company doing business in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri where we own and operate 31 radio stations that focus on local news, sports, and weather.&nbsp; In addition, Eagle has Creative, Digital, and online learning divisions where we assist our customers in their creative production and online learning initiatives and needs.&nbsp; Eagle employs more than 170 employees who share in the ownership of the company through their Employee Stock Ownership plan, or ESOP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633101245839.png" alt="Gary Shorman" />
 <figcaption>Gary Shorman</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Shorman emphasizes SBA loan access, need for ESOP education and the impact of DOL's lack of guidance</h2>ESOP AssociationWASHINGTON — During a Congressional hearing held today by the U.S. House Small Business Committee,&nbsp;TEA Immediate Past Chair and Chairman of Eagle Communications, Gary Shorman, discussed the importance of Employee Ownership, the need for quick access to Small Business Administration loans, and the chilling effect of the Department of Labor’s lack of guidance on ESOP formation.During Shorman’s testimony, he asked Congress to:<ul>
 <li>Urge The Small Business Administration (SBA) to streamline lending for ESOPs, as intended by the Main Street Employee Ownership Act by asking for ESOP loans to be included in the Preferred Lending Program.</li><li>Ask that the SBA be directed to resource a specific, centralized office —such as the Office of Small Business Development Centers—with active public education and information efforts about ESOPs. And that the SBA undertake specific ESOP-related educational training for regional SBA staff.</li><li>Require the Department of Labor to define what constitutes “adequate consideration”.</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633108902162.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“As Chairwoman Velazquez noted, a recent Employee Ownership Foundation study found employee-owned businesses not only survived but in many cases were able to adapt and thrive despite the pandemic.” Said Jim Bonham, President and CEO of The ESOP Association. “A business model that is so resilient and truly benefits the American worker should continue to be accessible, especially given the looming wave of retirements known as the ‘Silver Tsunami’. Including ESOPs in the preferred lending program will ensure more businesses have access to the capital they need when transitioning to employee ownership.”“Despite all of these strengths, and their deep roots within our local economies and business communities, there remain far too many unnecessary obstacles to new ESOP formation or expansion of existing ESOPs,” said Shorman during his testimony.&nbsp;Committee Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez (D-NY)—who introduced the Main Street Employee Ownership Act three years ago—concluded the hearing by stating, “If we generally want to help the American people build back better, we must promote policies to empower American workers. Employee-owned businesses merge ownership and employees’ interests helping to create a symbiotic relationship where everyone thrives.&nbsp;As ESOPs and cooperatives become more prominent, the American workforce will benefit.”Full <a href="https://smallbusiness.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=4008">video of the hearing&nbsp;</a>and written testimony can be found <a href="https://smallbusiness.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=4008">online</a>.About the ESOP Association 
The ESOP Association is the largest organization in the world supporting employee-owned companies, the more than 10 million U.S. employees who participate in an ESOP, and the professionals who provide services to them. Headquartered at the International Employee Ownership Center in&nbsp;Washington, DC&nbsp;and operating as a 501(c)6 organization with the affiliated Employee Ownership Foundation, The ESOP Association conducts and funds academic research, provides more than 160 annual conferences and events attended by nearly 15,000 individuals, and advocates on behalf of employee owners and their businesses to federal and state lawmakers.About Eagle Communications 
Eagle Communications is a 100% employee-owned company doing business in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri where we own and operate 31 radio stations that focus on local news, sports, and weather.&nbsp; In addition, Eagle has Creative, Digital, and online learning divisions where we assist our customers in their creative production and online learning initiatives and needs.&nbsp; Eagle employs more than 170 employees who share in the ownership of the company through their Employee Stock Ownership plan, or ESOP.

Shorman testifies to Congress on employee-ownership

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Thomas More Prep-Marian counselor David Zachman shares details about the school's revamped website.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="TMP-M‘s new website a resource for students, parents and more" 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=ursvd-10f7102-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Thomas More Prep-Marian counselor David Zachman shares details about the school's revamped website.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: TMP-M‘s new website a resource for students, parents and more

Even a touch of rain could not dampen the spirits of participants during the annual Oktoberfest in Hays this weekend in conjunction with the Fort Hays State University Homecoming festivities.

Take a look at some of the highlights below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633287176851.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Even a touch of rain could not dampen the spirits of participants during the annual Oktoberfest in Hays this weekend in conjunction with the Fort Hays State University Homecoming festivities.Take a look at some of the highlights below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633123921756.jpeg" alt="From left: Octoberfest Grand Marshal Nick Werth and board members John Moeder and Phillip Kuhn celebrate the tapping of the keg at Hays 2021 Oktoberfest. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>From left: Octoberfest Grand Marshal Nick Werth and board members John Moeder and Phillip Kuhn celebrate the tapping of the keg at Hays 2021 Oktoberfest. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633124221737.jpeg" alt="Left: Nick Werth and (far right) Philip Kuhn honor Charlie and Roxie Dorzweiler at the opening ceremonies of the Hays 2021 Oktoberfest on Friday." />
 <figcaption>Left: Nick Werth and (far right) Philip Kuhn honor Charlie and Roxie Dorzweiler at the opening ceremonies of the Hays 2021 Oktoberfest on Friday.</figcaption>
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📷 Hays-area residents celebrate annual traditions

On Tuesday, the popular Science Cafe series began this year's programming with a tour of the Fort Hays State University farm, giving area residents a look at the fully functional farm located just west of the main campus.

Paul Adams, dean of the college of education, opened the event.

"We welcome back you for another year of Science Cafes, and I want to tell you that this idea came from Dr. Clyde Cranwell," he said. "He said, 'Yo, Paul, I want people to see what we do out at the farm.' And he said, 'If you bring people out, we'll even serve dinner.' "

Starting the tour from the Reigel Barn, participants were driven around the entire property — seeing machinery, historic buildings, currently planted fields and livestock production while being led by Ryan States of the crops division.

He told the group the farm was initially started with practical needs in mind.

"The university farm was founded in 1908," States said. "It was from the military reservation that was distributed out to the universities. The farm was started to feed the students on campus and produce income for the university."

He said the farm covers approximately 3,825 acres with over 1,400 acres of cropland.

"We've got a little bit of yards, and the remainder is grass for primarily the beef division," States said.

At its inception, he said seven divisions were operating at the farm, including currently active divisions including beef, crop, sheep, swine and shop divisions, but the dairy and equine programs had been discontinued over the years.

Agriculture manager Ivan Anderson, shared details from the beef, sheep and swine divisions as the tour continued.

"The college farm currently is running 250 head of mama cows — predominantly Red Angus is what we're raising right now. We do have just a trace of Hereford cows out here," he said. "The Red Angus is kind of the breed for this part of the state, and we stuck with this breed and are big into it just because it's primarily what you'll see when you drive down around this part of the state."

Nearby bulls, Anderson said, would be marketed all over the state and beyond to farmers and ranchers.

"Some of the benefits of doing that for the students? It's just another way of teaching these kids how to market livestock outside of the conventional ways that we typically think of going to the sale barn," he said. "It's&nbsp;teaching them how to identify the quality and livestock, how to get them out there, how to me talk with other producers and help how to sell the product they have."

Anderson said the sales also help generate revenue for the farm and offset the cost of the farm employees.

"Right now, the animal science part employs nine college students," Anderson said. "So those kids are out here every day of the week. They're feeding this livestock. If they're sick, they're learning how to doctor and administer drugs to them — working with them every day. It's all about hands-on with the students out here."

Huser said currently the farm has 40 steers that were brought in from county fairs.&nbsp;

"We utilize them for introductory classes, where we can do a lot of hands-on work with students where they can learn movement," he said. "One project we did, we walk calves. One did a certain distance, it took it 14 steps, we had it measured off. The other calf comes up 20 feet short of walking the same distance or 20 steps. (It's) talking about energy movement requirements to move good structure versus bad structure. (In) terms of feeling cattle, (it means) learning condition, learning what finish is. There are a lot of benefits to having these gentle cattle here that are safe for students to be around and have been worked with. And they'll be going to market very soon, but they're brought in for purpose of enhancing introductory classes that startup in the fall."

But while the tour focused on the operations, participants also saw historic buildings, some dating to the '30s.

"In this area, we have quite a few WPA projects, but that's the oldest,"&nbsp;said Kevin Huser, said livestock judging coach, about a building surrounded by cattle. "It has more of a native stone than the other buildings do."

Moving away from the livestock operations, the group saw sheep and pig operations, before touring the farm's fields used for crop production and grazing.&nbsp;

"You'll typically go out here about the first of May," Anderson said "We don't run a real long grazing season out here, typically just a couple of months because bringing those ewes back in early to boost nutrition levels for breeding and so forth.

But he said the FHSU farm also works to protect the land as much as possible, carefully monitoring the fields for overgrazing.

"Something I think is extremely important is being good stewards over land," Anderson said. "And one thing that we're really careful to watch is overgrazing out here. And you kind of notice through our pastures here, these pastures are empty. ... Once milo is harvested, they'll start going out on milo stocks, but that's something that's really, really always in the back of our mind, you know. How much grass are we leaving? What are we leaving for the next year, especially in this part of the country?

<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei/science-cafe.">For more about upcoming Science Cafe's visit www.fhsu.edu/smei/science-cafe.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633227692288.jpeg" alt="Agriculture manager Ivan Anderson and Kevin Huser, livestock judging coach share information about the Fort Hays State University farm during the opening Science Cafe of the year." />
 <figcaption>Agriculture manager Ivan Anderson and Kevin Huser, livestock judging coach share information about the Fort Hays State University farm during the opening Science Cafe of the year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostOn Tuesday, the popular Science Cafe series began this year's programming with a tour of the Fort Hays State University farm, giving area residents a look at the fully functional farm located just west of the main campus.Paul Adams, dean of the college of education, opened the event.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633228021180.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We welcome back you for another year of Science Cafes, and I want to tell you that this idea came from Dr. Clyde Cranwell," he said. "He said, 'Yo, Paul, I want people to see what we do out at the farm.' And he said, 'If you bring people out, we'll even serve dinner.' "Starting the tour from the Reigel Barn, participants were driven around the entire property — seeing machinery, historic buildings, currently planted fields and livestock production while being led by Ryan States of the crops division.He told the group the farm was initially started with practical needs in mind."The university farm was founded in 1908," States said. "It was from the military reservation that was distributed out to the universities. The farm was started to feed the students on campus and produce income for the university."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633227968360.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>He said the farm covers approximately 3,825 acres with over 1,400 acres of cropland."We've got a little bit of yards, and the remainder is grass for primarily the beef division," States said.At its inception, he said seven divisions were operating at the farm, including currently active divisions including beef, crop, sheep, swine and shop divisions, but the dairy and equine programs had been discontinued over the years. Agriculture manager Ivan Anderson, shared details from the beef, sheep and swine divisions as the tour continued.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633228068202.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"The college farm currently is running 250 head of mama cows — predominantly Red Angus is what we're raising right now. We do have just a trace of Hereford cows out here," he said. "The Red Angus is kind of the breed for this part of the state, and we stuck with this breed and are big into it just because it's primarily what you'll see when you drive down around this part of the state."Nearby bulls, Anderson said, would be marketed all over the state and beyond to farmers and ranchers."Some of the benefits of doing that for the students? It's just another way of teaching these kids how to market livestock outside of the conventional ways that we typically think of going to the sale barn," he said. "It's&nbsp;teaching them how to identify the quality and livestock, how to get them out there, how to me talk with other producers and help how to sell the product they have."Anderson said the sales also help generate revenue for the farm and offset the cost of the farm employees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633228110816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Right now, the animal science part employs nine college students," Anderson said. "So those kids are out here every day of the week. They're feeding this livestock. If they're sick, they're learning how to doctor and administer drugs to them — working with them every day. It's all about hands-on with the students out here."Huser said currently the farm has 40 steers that were brought in from county fairs.&nbsp;"We utilize them for introductory classes, where we can do a lot of hands-on work with students where they can learn movement," he said. "One project we did, we walk calves. One did a certain distance, it took it 14 steps, we had it measured off. The other calf comes up 20 feet short of walking the same distance or 20 steps. (It's) talking about energy movement requirements to move good structure versus bad structure. (In) terms of feeling cattle, (it means) learning condition, learning what finish is. There are a lot of benefits to having these gentle cattle here that are safe for students to be around and have been worked with. And they'll be going to market very soon, but they're brought in for purpose of enhancing introductory classes that startup in the fall."But while the tour focused on the operations, participants also saw historic buildings, some dating to the '30s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633228149639.jpeg" alt="Ivan Anderson" />
 <figcaption>Ivan Anderson</figcaption>
 </figure>"In this area, we have quite a few WPA projects, but that's the oldest,"&nbsp;said Kevin Huser, said livestock judging coach, about a building surrounded by cattle. "It has more of a native stone than the other buildings do."Moving away from the livestock operations, the group saw sheep and pig operations, before touring the farm's fields used for crop production and grazing.&nbsp;"You'll typically go out here about the first of May," Anderson said "We don't run a real long grazing season out here, typically just a couple of months because bringing those ewes back in early to boost nutrition levels for breeding and so forth.But he said the FHSU farm also works to protect the land as much as possible, carefully monitoring the fields for overgrazing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633228244588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Something I think is extremely important is being good stewards over land," Anderson said. "And one thing that we're really careful to watch is overgrazing out here. And you kind of notice through our pastures here, these pastures are empty. ... Once milo is harvested, they'll start going out on milo stocks, but that's something that's really, really always in the back of our mind, you know. How much grass are we leaving? What are we leaving for the next year, especially in this part of the country?<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei/science-cafe.">For more about upcoming Science Cafe's visit www.fhsu.edu/smei/science-cafe.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633227641977.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

FHSU Science Cafe series kicks off with university farm tour

Three positions are up for election. Also running are&nbsp;Casey Herrman,&nbsp;Cathy Hopkins,&nbsp;Curt Vajnar, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.

Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education. As a single parent for most of the last decade, I have seen the hardships facing teachers, students and families. I have also seen the benefits that have been provided to my daughters due to the great teachers and staff that have touched their lives over the years. I want to be a part of helping USD 489 grow into a school system that keeps great teachers and provides an excellent education for the students of our district.

What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate? I believe that I would do a great job representing all members of our district, from the students to the teachers to the administration to the taxpayers that vote for school bonds. I also believe that I have a desire to bring as much unity among all of these groups to be able to improve our school district. I am flexible and willing to learn by listening to all viewpoints.

What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today? In Kansas – Competing for good teachers. Teacher salaries in Kansas are always on the low end compared to other states. We need to be able to compete with the states around us or we will keep seeing our teachers leave for better pay. In USD 489 – The high cost of enrolling our students. Families pay more to enroll children in USD 489 than any other school district in the state. How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? … to teachers?&nbsp; … to students? As a member of the BoE, I see my role as being one of being accountable to our patrons by steering our district towards good financial decisions; to our teachers by helping make sure that they are supplied with all that they need to be good educators without barriers; and for our students by helping to provide them an affordable education that fosters opportunities to better their lives.

Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to-day operations? I see it as overseeing policy. Good people have been hired to make day-to-day decisions.

What philosophy/core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? My decisions will be based on asking if this choice will benefit the growth of our school, if it will help our teachers, and if it will be good for our students.

What is your position on 1-to-1 technology for K-12?&nbsp; What changes, if any, would you like to see? I think it is essential. We learned just how valuable it is in 2020 when all students were sent home to finish the school year. We saw that school districts that did not have technology available for all students were ill-prepared and were not able to finish the school year. Changes need to be made as newer tech presents itself.

Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. The passing of a bond.

We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers.&nbsp; How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? Honestly, in my career I have not had to experience the need for due process. So I lack in knowledge but am willing to learn. I will start with the idea that not all decisions can be made just by listening to one viewpoint and that the teacher’s viewpoint needs to be heard.

What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success?&nbsp;What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I think better facilities are vital to the growth of our school district and that passing of a bond is essential.&nbsp;

How can the board/district recruit and retain quality teachers? By working closely with FHSU and by offering a competitive wage. What could the board do to improve teacher morale? Start by asking the right questions to our teachers to try and understand what issues and concerns they are facing.

How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining?&nbsp; What role do you see yourself taking in this process? I would refer to my response on due process, I have a lot to learn. I would say that my role in collective bargaining is looking at what benefits the district, acknowledging that what benefits the district most is the continuity of good education by maintaining good teachers.

Other comments I have worked as a volunteer for children’s organizations and ministries my whole adult life. I want what is best for them.&nbsp;In my years of parenting, I have actively built relationships with my daughters’ teachers because I realize how important teachers are in their lives.&nbsp;I am ready to further these experiences by working for our students and teachers on the Board of Education for USD 489.

Editor's note: The following questions were submitted to candidates for the USD 489 school board by the Hays NEA. The questions and answers are being posted as submitted with the permission of the Hays NEA and the candidates.Three positions are up for election. Also running are&nbsp;Casey Herrman,&nbsp;Cathy Hopkins,&nbsp;Curt Vajnar, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632937033254.jpeg" alt="Ken Brooks" />
 <figcaption>Ken Brooks</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Ken Brooks</h2>Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education. As a single parent for most of the last decade, I have seen the hardships facing teachers, students and families. I have also seen the benefits that have been provided to my daughters due to the great teachers and staff that have touched their lives over the years. I want to be a part of helping USD 489 grow into a school system that keeps great teachers and provides an excellent education for the students of our district.What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate? I believe that I would do a great job representing all members of our district, from the students to the teachers to the administration to the taxpayers that vote for school bonds. I also believe that I have a desire to bring as much unity among all of these groups to be able to improve our school district. I am flexible and willing to learn by listening to all viewpoints.What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today? In Kansas – Competing for good teachers. Teacher salaries in Kansas are always on the low end compared to other states. We need to be able to compete with the states around us or we will keep seeing our teachers leave for better pay. In USD 489 – The high cost of enrolling our students. Families pay more to enroll children in USD 489 than any other school district in the state. How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? … to teachers?&nbsp; … to students? As a member of the BoE, I see my role as being one of being accountable to our patrons by steering our district towards good financial decisions; to our teachers by helping make sure that they are supplied with all that they need to be good educators without barriers; and for our students by helping to provide them an affordable education that fosters opportunities to better their lives.Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to-day operations? I see it as overseeing policy. Good people have been hired to make day-to-day decisions. What philosophy/core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? My decisions will be based on asking if this choice will benefit the growth of our school, if it will help our teachers, and if it will be good for our students.What is your position on 1-to-1 technology for K-12?&nbsp; What changes, if any, would you like to see? I think it is essential. We learned just how valuable it is in 2020 when all students were sent home to finish the school year. We saw that school districts that did not have technology available for all students were ill-prepared and were not able to finish the school year. Changes need to be made as newer tech presents itself.Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. The passing of a bond.We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers.&nbsp; How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? Honestly, in my career I have not had to experience the need for due process. So I lack in knowledge but am willing to learn. I will start with the idea that not all decisions can be made just by listening to one viewpoint and that the teacher’s viewpoint needs to be heard.What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success?&nbsp;What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I think better facilities are vital to the growth of our school district and that passing of a bond is essential.&nbsp;How can the board/district recruit and retain quality teachers? By working closely with FHSU and by offering a competitive wage. What could the board do to improve teacher morale? Start by asking the right questions to our teachers to try and understand what issues and concerns they are facing.How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining?&nbsp; What role do you see yourself taking in this process? I would refer to my response on due process, I have a lot to learn. I would say that my role in collective bargaining is looking at what benefits the district, acknowledging that what benefits the district most is the continuity of good education by maintaining good teachers.Other comments I have worked as a volunteer for children’s organizations and ministries my whole adult life. I want what is best for them.&nbsp;In my years of parenting, I have actively built relationships with my daughters’ teachers because I realize how important teachers are in their lives.&nbsp;I am ready to further these experiences by working for our students and teachers on the Board of Education for USD 489.

USD 489 candidate profile: Ken Brooks

Three positions are up for election. Also running are Ken Brooks,&nbsp;Cathy Hopkins,&nbsp;Curt Vajnar, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.

Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education.&nbsp; What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate? I am a father of 3 children and care about the community, I am also unhappy about the poor representation and lack of action. I am not scared to ask the hard questions or do what needs to be done to make sure our community is properly represented.

What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today?&nbsp;In Kansas? In USD 489? The inclusion of politics of the school system. I believe we are not teaching our kids to be strong independent young adults with an owner mentality, instead we are creating immature dependent consumers. A lack of action in the leadership that trickles down to every administrator. I see this in USD 489 and in Kansas.

How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? … to teachers?&nbsp; … to students?&nbsp; Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to-day operations? I believe the boe makes policy and the superintendent does the day to day, if the super is not following policies, we'll need a new super. I will listen to everyone in the community, we are all in this together.

What philosophy/core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? Kids first, Politics Never.

What is your position on 1-to-1 technology for K-12?&nbsp; What changes, if any, would you like to see? Before there can be any changes on 1 to 1 tech, there needs to be improvements in tech support, having these devices does no good if the building doesn't have internet, but it does teach resourcefulness to continue on learning with devices. I do believe in 1-to-1 tech, but I don't agree with having the same products over and over, students should learn multiple operating platforms to be better equipped in the world with more tools at their disposal. Switching platforms also spreads out department money to more than one vendor.

Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. Having a clear announcement that USD 489 is not a medical provider, and that we need parents to be more involved in their kids' learning.

We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers.&nbsp; How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? Teachers that go the extra mile should be rewarded for doing so, and not with just a pat on the back.

What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success?&nbsp; What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I can get behind a simple clear bond that benefits the whole district, not just the high school, and not just a dumpster fire with blank checks.

How can the board/district recruit and retain quality teachers? &nbsp; What could the board do to improve teacher morale? Pay them, fund for supplies, and the parents should not have supply the teachers.

How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining?&nbsp; What role do you see yourself taking in this process? Collective bargaining is great for establishing base pay and benefits that everyone should have, it is not great however for rewarding people that work harder than others, when everyone gets the same rate, motivation treads to the lowest level.

Editor's note: The following questions were submitted to candidates for the USD 489 school board by the Hays NEA. The questions and answers are being posted as submitted with the permission of the Hays NEA and the candidates.Three positions are up for election. Also running are Ken Brooks,&nbsp;Cathy Hopkins,&nbsp;Curt Vajnar, Thomas Wasinger and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632937295977.jpeg" alt="Casey Herrman" />
 <figcaption>Casey Herrman</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Casey Herrman</h2>Please discuss your reasons for seeking a position on the Board of Education.&nbsp; What qualifications do you have that make you the best candidate? I am a father of 3 children and care about the community, I am also unhappy about the poor representation and lack of action. I am not scared to ask the hard questions or do what needs to be done to make sure our community is properly represented.What do you see as the greatest problem facing public education today?&nbsp;In Kansas? In USD 489? The inclusion of politics of the school system. I believe we are not teaching our kids to be strong independent young adults with an owner mentality, instead we are creating immature dependent consumers. A lack of action in the leadership that trickles down to every administrator. I see this in USD 489 and in Kansas.How do you see your role as a member of the Board of Education in regard to accountability to patrons of the district? … to teachers?&nbsp; … to students?&nbsp; Do you see your role as overseeing policy or making decisions regarding day-to-day operations? I believe the boe makes policy and the superintendent does the day to day, if the super is not following policies, we'll need a new super. I will listen to everyone in the community, we are all in this together.What philosophy/core belief will be the driving force behind your decision making if elected to the board? Kids first, Politics Never.What is your position on 1-to-1 technology for K-12?&nbsp; What changes, if any, would you like to see? Before there can be any changes on 1 to 1 tech, there needs to be improvements in tech support, having these devices does no good if the building doesn't have internet, but it does teach resourcefulness to continue on learning with devices. I do believe in 1-to-1 tech, but I don't agree with having the same products over and over, students should learn multiple operating platforms to be better equipped in the world with more tools at their disposal. Switching platforms also spreads out department money to more than one vendor.Describe the first change you would like to see enacted by the Board of Education. Having a clear announcement that USD 489 is not a medical provider, and that we need parents to be more involved in their kids' learning.We believe every student deserves qualified, committed teachers.&nbsp; How do you feel due process for teachers affects this goal? Teachers that go the extra mile should be rewarded for doing so, and not with just a pat on the back.What is your vision regarding facilities in the district to provide our students with the best opportunities for success?&nbsp; What are your thoughts on previous and future bond issues/elections? I can get behind a simple clear bond that benefits the whole district, not just the high school, and not just a dumpster fire with blank checks.How can the board/district recruit and retain quality teachers? &nbsp; What could the board do to improve teacher morale? Pay them, fund for supplies, and the parents should not have supply the teachers.How would you characterize your attitude toward collective bargaining?&nbsp; What role do you see yourself taking in this process? Collective bargaining is great for establishing base pay and benefits that everyone should have, it is not great however for rewarding people that work harder than others, when everyone gets the same rate, motivation treads to the lowest level.

USD 489 candidate profile: Casey Herrman

Thomas
 More Prep-Marian last week announced the hiring of Rick Binder as a 
high school religion teacher. Rick has worked the past 17 years as the 
youth minister at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, leading
 CYO and youth groups in a variety of activities, prayers, mission 
trips, service projects, and fellowship. Rick grew up on a family farm 
in Hays. Along with his wife, Gayla (Lohrmeyer), they have also run a 
dairy and grain farm over the years. Rick and Gayla have 4 children and 9
 grandchildren (with one more on the way).

Binder currently oversees the Family Life/Respect Life Offices for the 
Diocese of Salina. While teaching at TMP-Marian, he will maintain that 
role, stepping down from his youth ministry duties at IHM.

"I am looking forward with great anticipation to this opportunity to 
be in the classroom every day and to be part of a great Catholic 
Community at TMP-Marian," Binder said. "It has been my experience that in 
preparing to teach others about our faith, I myself have grown in 
knowledge and understanding of God in my life. Now I feel truly blessed 
that I will have the opportunity to do that on a daily basis.”

Binder will work with Bill Meagher, TMP-Marian Campus Minister, to 
transition teaching duties during October, while still being available 
to help IHM ensure a successful transition of their youth ministry 
program.

"The TMP-Marian and Hays communities know Rick Binder very well," 
said Principal Chad Meitner. "We couldn't be getting a better Catholic 
gentleman and catechist to walk alongside our students in their journey 
of faith."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633022300397.png" alt="Rick Binder" />
 <figcaption>Rick Binder</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MThomas
 More Prep-Marian last week announced the hiring of Rick Binder as a 
high school religion teacher. Rick has worked the past 17 years as the 
youth minister at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, leading
 CYO and youth groups in a variety of activities, prayers, mission 
trips, service projects, and fellowship. Rick grew up on a family farm 
in Hays. Along with his wife, Gayla (Lohrmeyer), they have also run a 
dairy and grain farm over the years. Rick and Gayla have 4 children and 9
 grandchildren (with one more on the way).Binder currently oversees the Family Life/Respect Life Offices for the 
Diocese of Salina. While teaching at TMP-Marian, he will maintain that 
role, stepping down from his youth ministry duties at IHM."I am looking forward with great anticipation to this opportunity to 
be in the classroom every day and to be part of a great Catholic 
Community at TMP-Marian," Binder said. "It has been my experience that in 
preparing to teach others about our faith, I myself have grown in 
knowledge and understanding of God in my life. Now I feel truly blessed 
that I will have the opportunity to do that on a daily basis.”Binder will work with Bill Meagher, TMP-Marian Campus Minister, to 
transition teaching duties during October, while still being available 
to help IHM ensure a successful transition of their youth ministry 
program."The TMP-Marian and Hays communities know Rick Binder very well," 
said Principal Chad Meitner. "We couldn't be getting a better Catholic 
gentleman and catechist to walk alongside our students in their journey 
of faith."

Binder hired as TMP-M's newest religion teacher 

Over the years I’ve written this column, my wife has tried numerous times to get me to fan-out into genres other than the outdoors, but I’ve pretty much a stickler for staying with what I know and do best. However, I love to write about my observations at the state fair, although it has, well, uh, absolutely nothing to do with the outdoors other than much of it sits outside.

I'm the oldest of five kids and we were all in 4-H until they kicked us out. We had a flock of registered sheep, and for numerous years I showed those sheep at several county fairs and at the Ohio State Fair. At the State Fair I stayed in a room above the sheep barn which was close enough to the midway that there was absolutely no sleeping until midnight when the midway rides shut down and the crowds went home. A popular draw was the dunk tank featuring Bobo the Clown. Now Bobo had a way of taunting kids without being belligerent or racist that would cause a kid to stand there and pitch softballs at a pie-sized target on that dunk tank until they had spent their life savings, their college fund plus their parents 401(k). I will take to my grave the haunting sound of Bobo’s voice as it echoed through the dark, humid nights proclaiming “Bobo, high and dry!”

Jeff Foxworthy has said that if you want to see a family more dysfunctional than your own, go to a state fair. State fairs have taught me many important truths to guide me through life, such as, knee socks of any description on a man look horrendous with shorts, wearing both suspenders and a belt (especially with shorts) looks even dorkier than wearing both with jeans, purple spiked hair is not really that cool on a fat 50-something man. And speaking of colored hair, I saw hair in every color of the rainbow, as if a giant blimp full of Skittles had exploded somewhere over Kansas. &nbsp;

And why is “the midway” called “the midway?” Is it because it’s “midway” between you and your wallet? Or could it possibly be midway between you and insanity? Anyway, it’s on the midway of the Kansas State Fair that I learned another of life’s great truths; that in this day and age there is no food group immune from being deep fried and/or put on a stick. I found deep fried PB&amp;J, (haven’t a clue how that works,) deep fried Twinkies (sounds to me like a waste of a perfectly good Twinkie,) deep fried peaches (those almost sound good,) and new this year, deep fried deviled eggs. As scrumptious as those all sound, my favorite has to be Moink Balls on a stick, which I finally tried for the first time this year, comprised of beef meatballs (the “mo”) wrapped in a slice of bacon (the “oink”) and not one but five served on a stick; now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!&nbsp;

Another piece of advice from Jeff Foxworthy is “If you’re going somewhere alone, don’t wear a T shirt that says “I’m Here with Stupid.” I love reading T shirts people are wearing and boy-howdy, there’s no better place to do that than at a state fair. Here, in no particular order are my favorite T shirt captions seen at the Kansas State Fair:

Even though COVID left its mark on this year’s state fair, causing some empty spots in buildings and some regulars like KS Dept of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism guys and gals to remain absent, there’s still no better entertainment for this country boy than the state fair; fond memories, life lessons learned, fine dining and new fashion statements. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Over the years I’ve written this column, my wife has tried numerous times to get me to fan-out into genres other than the outdoors, but I’ve pretty much a stickler for staying with what I know and do best. However, I love to write about my observations at the state fair, although it has, well, uh, absolutely nothing to do with the outdoors other than much of it sits outside.I'm the oldest of five kids and we were all in 4-H until they kicked us out. We had a flock of registered sheep, and for numerous years I showed those sheep at several county fairs and at the Ohio State Fair. At the State Fair I stayed in a room above the sheep barn which was close enough to the midway that there was absolutely no sleeping until midnight when the midway rides shut down and the crowds went home. A popular draw was the dunk tank featuring Bobo the Clown. Now Bobo had a way of taunting kids without being belligerent or racist that would cause a kid to stand there and pitch softballs at a pie-sized target on that dunk tank until they had spent their life savings, their college fund plus their parents 401(k). I will take to my grave the haunting sound of Bobo’s voice as it echoed through the dark, humid nights proclaiming “Bobo, high and dry!”Jeff Foxworthy has said that if you want to see a family more dysfunctional than your own, go to a state fair. State fairs have taught me many important truths to guide me through life, such as, knee socks of any description on a man look horrendous with shorts, wearing both suspenders and a belt (especially with shorts) looks even dorkier than wearing both with jeans, purple spiked hair is not really that cool on a fat 50-something man. And speaking of colored hair, I saw hair in every color of the rainbow, as if a giant blimp full of Skittles had exploded somewhere over Kansas. &nbsp;And why is “the midway” called “the midway?” Is it because it’s “midway” between you and your wallet? Or could it possibly be midway between you and insanity? Anyway, it’s on the midway of the Kansas State Fair that I learned another of life’s great truths; that in this day and age there is no food group immune from being deep fried and/or put on a stick. I found deep fried PB&amp;J, (haven’t a clue how that works,) deep fried Twinkies (sounds to me like a waste of a perfectly good Twinkie,) deep fried peaches (those almost sound good,) and new this year, deep fried deviled eggs. As scrumptious as those all sound, my favorite has to be Moink Balls on a stick, which I finally tried for the first time this year, comprised of beef meatballs (the “mo”) wrapped in a slice of bacon (the “oink”) and not one but five served on a stick; now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!&nbsp;Another piece of advice from Jeff Foxworthy is “If you’re going somewhere alone, don’t wear a T shirt that says “I’m Here with Stupid.” I love reading T shirts people are wearing and boy-howdy, there’s no better place to do that than at a state fair. Here, in no particular order are my favorite T shirt captions seen at the Kansas State Fair:<ul>
 <li>My IQ Test Came Back Negative</li><li>The Only Thing that Should Come Between a Hunter and His Meat is Bread</li><li>9 out of 10 Bears Surveyed Prefer Campers over S’mores</li><li>I’m Not a Complete Idiot; Some Parts are Missing</li><li>I Believe Every Form of Wildlife has its Place; Right next to the Mashed Potatoes and Gravy</li><li>You’ve Read My T Shirt, that’s Enough Social Interaction for Today</li><li>I Love My Country, it’s My Government that Scares Me</li><li>I Have Multiple Personalities and None of Them Like You</li><li>(This appeared with a picture of a Harley Chopper motorcycle ridden by a skeleton and is possibly my favorite.) Sons of Arthritis, Ibuprofen Chapter</li>
 </ul>Even though COVID left its mark on this year’s state fair, causing some empty spots in buildings and some regulars like KS Dept of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism guys and gals to remain absent, there’s still no better entertainment for this country boy than the state fair; fond memories, life lessons learned, fine dining and new fashion statements. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: All right, 'fair' enough!

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Sunday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 GMC Sierra driven by Martin E. Velazquez Cruz, 20, Kansas City, MO., was southbound on U.S. 183 at Butterfield Trail.

The driver attempted to pass another vehicle and collided head-on with a northbound 2007 Mercury Milan driven by James D. Kohl, 56, Schoenchen.&nbsp;

Kohl was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Brocks Funeral Home. EMS transported Cruz to KU Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Sunday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 GMC Sierra driven by Martin E. Velazquez Cruz, 20, Kansas City, MO., was southbound on U.S. 183 at Butterfield Trail.The driver attempted to pass another vehicle and collided head-on with a northbound 2007 Mercury Milan driven by James D. Kohl, 56, Schoenchen.&nbsp;Kohl was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Brocks Funeral Home. EMS transported Cruz to KU Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.