By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Everyone wants to have fun when they're out at the bar for drinks, but sometimes the fun and flirtation goes too far.

Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services staff&nbsp;completed a three-day training with the national Safe Bars Alliance Association in November.

Options' goal is to recruit businesses in the hospitality industry to take the Safe Bars course to help make their staff and patrons safer from sexual predators.

At least 50 percent of sexual assaults&nbsp;are associated with alcohol use, according to several published research studies.

Alcohol has especially been shown as a factor in sexual assaults among college students.

Those survey reported that 74 percent of the perpetrators and 55 percent of the victims of rape in a nationally representative sample of college students had been drinking alcohol.

The Safe Bars training helps bar staff to recognize signs of sexual harassment or predatory behavior, said Jennifer Hecker, Options executive director.

Some of those behaviors bar owners or staff might notice could be unwanted advances, someone who did not come with a person following him or her outside of the restaurant or bar, and persistence after someone says "no," or "no thank you" to advances.

Some predators will continue to buy a subject drinks as an attempt to use the target's intoxication as a weapon against him or her, Hecker said.

"Many bar staff experience sexual harassment even at the hands of patrons," Hecker said.

They will say, "I'll give you this tip, if you give me your phone number," Hecker said.

A bartender might be grabbed or slapped on the rear end or be the subject of other sexual advances, Hecker said, and the staff member may feel as if he or she can't say no.&nbsp;

Safe Bars helps identify the behaviors and how to intervene safely without putting the person intervening at risk.

"Alcohol does not cause sexual assault, but it is used as a weapon and to camouflage [the perpetrator's] own actions by using that defense that 'I was drunk. I didn't know any better,' " Hecker said. ...

"Not everyone who drinks sexually assaults someone."

Safe Bar training attempts to minimize the behavior and hold perpetrators accountable.

"This helps bar owners, restaurant owners keep their own staff safe, as well as intervene and look for and stop that predatory behavior with customers as well," she said.

Several establishments in Hays have expressed interest in the training, and Options will be reaching out to those bars to scheduled training with their staffs.

The free training is 2 1/2 hours. The participants receive materials as well as a sign for their establishment indicating they are a member of the Safe Bars Alliance.&nbsp;

"It lets them know that the bartender is their friend and there is someone in the bar who can help them," Hecker said.

Hecker said she believes bar owners want to keep everyone safe.

"Drinking is a part of our culture," she said. "There is nothing wrong with drinking in and of itself. It is not what causes it. I think people are often afraid to talk about that. If we don't talk about it, we can't do anything to fix it."

The training offered through Options is being piloted in Hays, but Hecker said she would like to expand the program throughout Options' service area if the pilot goes well.

Bar or restaurant owners or managers who would like to participate in the program can call Options at 785-625-4202 to sign up for the training. Hecker said Options can be flexible in setting a time and date for the training.

"The bar owners want their establishments to be fun and safe places for people to celebrate," Hecker said. ... "We want to celebrate and be with one another. We want to do that in a place where we will feel safe."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608236053340.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEveryone wants to have fun when they're out at the bar for drinks, but sometimes the fun and flirtation goes too far.Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services staff&nbsp;completed a three-day training with the national Safe Bars Alliance Association in November.Options' goal is to recruit businesses in the hospitality industry to take the Safe Bars course to help make their staff and patrons safer from sexual predators.At least 50 percent of sexual assaults&nbsp;are associated with alcohol use, according to several published research studies.Alcohol has especially been shown as a factor in sexual assaults among college students.Those survey reported that 74 percent of the perpetrators and 55 percent of the victims of rape in a nationally representative sample of college students had been drinking alcohol.The Safe Bars training helps bar staff to recognize signs of sexual harassment or predatory behavior, said Jennifer Hecker, Options executive director.Some of those behaviors bar owners or staff might notice could be unwanted advances, someone who did not come with a person following him or her outside of the restaurant or bar, and persistence after someone says "no," or "no thank you" to advances.Some predators will continue to buy a subject drinks as an attempt to use the target's intoxication as a weapon against him or her, Hecker said."Many bar staff experience sexual harassment even at the hands of patrons," Hecker said.They will say, "I'll give you this tip, if you give me your phone number," Hecker said.A bartender might be grabbed or slapped on the rear end or be the subject of other sexual advances, Hecker said, and the staff member may feel as if he or she can't say no.&nbsp;Safe Bars helps identify the behaviors and how to intervene safely without putting the person intervening at risk."Alcohol does not cause sexual assault, but it is used as a weapon and to camouflage [the perpetrator's] own actions by using that defense that 'I was drunk. I didn't know any better,' " Hecker said. ..."Not everyone who drinks sexually assaults someone."Safe Bar training attempts to minimize the behavior and hold perpetrators accountable."This helps bar owners, restaurant owners keep their own staff safe, as well as intervene and look for and stop that predatory behavior with customers as well," she said.Several establishments in Hays have expressed interest in the training, and Options will be reaching out to those bars to scheduled training with their staffs.The free training is 2 1/2 hours. The participants receive materials as well as a sign for their establishment indicating they are a member of the Safe Bars Alliance.&nbsp;"It lets them know that the bartender is their friend and there is someone in the bar who can help them," Hecker said.Hecker said she believes bar owners want to keep everyone safe."Drinking is a part of our culture," she said. "There is nothing wrong with drinking in and of itself. It is not what causes it. I think people are often afraid to talk about that. If we don't talk about it, we can't do anything to fix it."The training offered through Options is being piloted in Hays, but Hecker said she would like to expand the program throughout Options' service area if the pilot goes well.Bar or restaurant owners or managers who would like to participate in the program can call Options at 785-625-4202 to sign up for the training. Hecker said Options can be flexible in setting a time and date for the training."The bar owners want their establishments to be fun and safe places for people to celebrate," Hecker said. ... "We want to celebrate and be with one another. We want to do that in a place where we will feel safe."

Safe Bars Alliance seeks to make bars safer from sexual predators

Ellis Co. Battle of the Badges Blood Drive is Wednesday, Thursday

Three-day weather outlook

Editor's note: Podcast previously published Thursday.

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days rose slightly from nine on Wednesday to 10 on Monday.

The department also announced four additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 38.

Since there was no report on Christmas Day, the most recent case update was Wednesday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/68168042-00c8-4c1b-8817-4b26e7c7f51d">RELATED:&nbsp;Who gets vaccinated in Kansas and when</a>

There were 51 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 249 active cases, including six active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 2,896 recovered cases.

As of Monday, there were 27 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, up from 23 prior to Christmas, with 21 of those active patients, three on ventilators and six in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests stayed relatively flat at 19.9 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,183 cases of coronavirus identified in Ellis County, including 38 virus-related deaths.&nbsp;

Of the total 16,944 tests administered, 17.6 percent have returned positive for COVID-19.

NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.

<div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: Dec. 18, 2020" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/my5v3-f56303?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>Editor's note: Podcast previously published Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609178934052.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days rose slightly from nine on Wednesday to 10 on Monday.The department also announced four additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 38.Since there was no report on Christmas Day, the most recent case update was Wednesday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/68168042-00c8-4c1b-8817-4b26e7c7f51d">RELATED:&nbsp;Who gets vaccinated in Kansas and when</a>There were 51 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 249 active cases, including six active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 2,896 recovered cases.As of Monday, there were 27 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, up from 23 prior to Christmas, with 21 of those active patients, three on ventilators and six in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests stayed relatively flat at 19.9 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 3,183 cases of coronavirus identified in Ellis County, including 38 virus-related deaths.&nbsp;Of the total 16,944 tests administered, 17.6 percent have returned positive for COVID-19.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609182453965.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnw0R-SGsnA"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Per-day virus rate in Ellis Co. rises; four additional deaths reported

The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a winter weather advisory for much of western Kansas.

The advisory will be in effect from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday.

A mix of rain or snow is possible today and this evening, with less than a half-inch of accumulation expected.&nbsp;

Sleet is expected to begin before 7 a.m. Tuesday, possibly mixed with freezing rain between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Winds are expected to be blustery, with gusts in the mid-30s.

Farther northwest, the NWS is Goodland is predicting up to 2 to 3 inches of snowfall with some ice accumulation as the front moves across its coverage area Monday and Tuesday.

By Wednesday, skies are expected to clear, although the mercury is expected to dip into the mid-teens overnight Wednesday.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather, cancellations and delays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609170540347.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a winter weather advisory for much of western Kansas.The advisory will be in effect from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday.A mix of rain or snow is possible today and this evening, with less than a half-inch of accumulation expected.&nbsp;Sleet is expected to begin before 7 a.m. Tuesday, possibly mixed with freezing rain between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Winds are expected to be blustery, with gusts in the mid-30s.Farther northwest, the NWS is Goodland is predicting up to 2 to 3 inches of snowfall with some ice accumulation as the front moves across its coverage area Monday and Tuesday.By Wednesday, skies are expected to clear, although the mercury is expected to dip into the mid-teens overnight Wednesday.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather, cancellations and delays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609170661894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Northwest Kan. facing another bout with wintry weather

'Are we alone in the universe?' asks FHSU Science Café

Donna Maskus, Ellis County Clerk, is retiring after two terms as clerk and working in the clerk's office since 1979.

Maskus, who worked under three previous county clerks, will finish out her term. Bobbi Dreiling, Maskus' deputy clerk, was elected as clerk in November and will take office in January.

"It's been a marvelous ride as Ellis County Clerk and working in the office, because we have gotten to work with so many in the community and also the state county clerk's association," she said.

Maskus didn't think she would ever run for elected office despite her many years of service for the county. However, she said she received encouragement from the previous county clerks she worked under to run for the position.

"It's been grand," she said. "I enjoyed all bits of it."

The most visible and possibly the most challenging aspect of the county clerk's job is as an election official.

Maskus recalled one election night when she was working under Ellis County Clerk Emery Rome. One polling location did not bring their results back to the clerk's office until 5 a.m. At that time, votes were counted at the polling locations.

"So we had to come back the next morning and report by 8 a.m. and work a full day," Maskus said. "I thought that was quite something because we patiently awaited [the returns]. Everyone wants to know the results even though they are unofficial."

Despite that one long night, Maskus said she has enjoyed working with the many election workers over the years.

"Election board workers are marvelous," she said. "They're hard workers. You can count on them and they have always done an outstanding job running our elections when it comes Election Day. You can't be at every poll site."

In 2018, the office handled a recount for the 111th district Kansas House race between Barb Wasinger and Eber Phelps.&nbsp;

Wasinger won the election by 35 votes and went on this November to earn a second term in the Kansas Legislature.

"We try to be extra cautious in the office," Maskus said. "Things can still happen, but you deal with them and do the right thing and move forward."

Maskus said she feels very supported by the Ellis County community, the Kansas Secretary of State's office and her fellow county clerks, adding that Ellis County has been a great place to work.

Election laws and processes have changed during Maskus' tenure in the clerk's office. School board and city elections have moved from the spring to the fall. The county used new election machines for the first time in a presidential race this election cycle.

Maskus also faced running an election during a pandemic. The county clerk's office used federal CARES Act funds to place ballot return boxes at the Ellis County Administration Building, as well as in Ellis and Victoria.

Although Maskus was not infected, multiple workers in the office contracted COVID right after the November election, which is still a busy time for the office.

The clerk's office is responsible for providing information to the county canvas board, so the official election results can be certified and reported to the state.

More than half of the staff was out, and the office was closed for a period of time.

"I really said my prayers before the election, because I didn't want anyone from Election Day to come down with COVID at all," she said. "We do everything we can. It is a circumstance we are all dealing with."

Despite the challenges, Maskus said, "Working elections has been fun. You get to hand out the unofficial results on election night."

Maskus also said she has really enjoyed all the people she has met during her time in public service. People who advance vote in person at the clerk's office tell her about why the election and voting is personally important to them.

"People get excited to be a part of elections, and I think that's grand," Maskus said. "I think Kansas does a good job of conducting elections."

Maskus has worked with many county commissioners during her time at the county and said she has enjoyed working with those officials. Maskus lost count of the many minute meetings she typed for the commission.

The clerk's office provides other community services. Another of the more visible functions is serving as a passport agent.

"It still amazes me to this day the number of people who travel," she said. "It is a great opportunity for people. We see all ages."

Maskus said the clerk's office offers "kindly services." It doesn't collect taxes or fines like other county offices.

"We get to do the fun jobs in the county," she said.

Maskus has also been very active in 4-H. She was a 4-Her when she was a child. She continues to lead a 4-H group and served as adult volunteer officer. She's a regular at the fairgrounds during fair time.

In her retirement, Maskus, 66, hopes to spend more time with her parents who still live on the family farm, as well as her sisters and sons.

Corrected, 11 a.m. Saturday to clarify Maskus' term of service. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608738786228.jpeg" alt="Donna Maskus, Ellis County Clerk, is retiring at the end of her term in January after 21 years working in the clerk's office." />
 <figcaption>Donna Maskus, Ellis County Clerk, is retiring at the end of her term in January after 21 years working in the clerk's office.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDonna Maskus, Ellis County Clerk, is retiring after two terms as clerk and working in the clerk's office since 1979.Maskus, who worked under three previous county clerks, will finish out her term. Bobbi Dreiling, Maskus' deputy clerk, was elected as clerk in November and will take office in January."It's been a marvelous ride as Ellis County Clerk and working in the office, because we have gotten to work with so many in the community and also the state county clerk's association," she said.Maskus didn't think she would ever run for elected office despite her many years of service for the county. However, she said she received encouragement from the previous county clerks she worked under to run for the position."It's been grand," she said. "I enjoyed all bits of it."The most visible and possibly the most challenging aspect of the county clerk's job is as an election official.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597426375501.jpeg" alt="Donna Maskus speaking to the election canvas board." />
 <figcaption>Donna Maskus speaking to the election canvas board.</figcaption>
 </figure>Maskus recalled one election night when she was working under Ellis County Clerk Emery Rome. One polling location did not bring their results back to the clerk's office until 5 a.m. At that time, votes were counted at the polling locations."So we had to come back the next morning and report by 8 a.m. and work a full day," Maskus said. "I thought that was quite something because we patiently awaited [the returns]. Everyone wants to know the results even though they are unofficial."Despite that one long night, Maskus said she has enjoyed working with the many election workers over the years."Election board workers are marvelous," she said. "They're hard workers. You can count on them and they have always done an outstanding job running our elections when it comes Election Day. You can't be at every poll site."In 2018, the office handled a recount for the 111th district Kansas House race between Barb Wasinger and Eber Phelps.&nbsp;Wasinger won the election by 35 votes and went on this November to earn a second term in the Kansas Legislature."We try to be extra cautious in the office," Maskus said. "Things can still happen, but you deal with them and do the right thing and move forward."Maskus said she feels very supported by the Ellis County community, the Kansas Secretary of State's office and her fellow county clerks, adding that Ellis County has been a great place to work.Election laws and processes have changed during Maskus' tenure in the clerk's office. School board and city elections have moved from the spring to the fall. The county used new election machines for the first time in a presidential race this election cycle.Maskus also faced running an election during a pandemic. The county clerk's office used federal CARES Act funds to place ballot return boxes at the Ellis County Administration Building, as well as in Ellis and Victoria.Although Maskus was not infected, multiple workers in the office contracted COVID right after the November election, which is still a busy time for the office.The clerk's office is responsible for providing information to the county canvas board, so the official election results can be certified and reported to the state.More than half of the staff was out, and the office was closed for a period of time."I really said my prayers before the election, because I didn't want anyone from Election Day to come down with COVID at all," she said. "We do everything we can. It is a circumstance we are all dealing with."Despite the challenges, Maskus said, "Working elections has been fun. You get to hand out the unofficial results on election night."Maskus also said she has really enjoyed all the people she has met during her time in public service. People who advance vote in person at the clerk's office tell her about why the election and voting is personally important to them."People get excited to be a part of elections, and I think that's grand," Maskus said. "I think Kansas does a good job of conducting elections."Maskus has worked with many county commissioners during her time at the county and said she has enjoyed working with those officials. Maskus lost count of the many minute meetings she typed for the commission.The clerk's office provides other community services. Another of the more visible functions is serving as a passport agent."It still amazes me to this day the number of people who travel," she said. "It is a great opportunity for people. We see all ages."Maskus said the clerk's office offers "kindly services." It doesn't collect taxes or fines like other county offices."We get to do the fun jobs in the county," she said.Maskus has also been very active in 4-H. She was a 4-Her when she was a child. She continues to lead a 4-H group and served as adult volunteer officer. She's a regular at the fairgrounds during fair time.In her retirement, Maskus, 66, hopes to spend more time with her parents who still live on the family farm, as well as her sisters and sons.Corrected, 11 a.m. Saturday to clarify Maskus' term of service. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

Maskus to retire from Ellis County Clerk's Office after decades of service

By JEFF BRULL HaysMed Foundation executive director

I’m beginning this installment of “The View From Here” with the 
understatement of the century: This year has certainly been challenging.
 We’ve all learned so much, not only about COVID, but about technology, 
adaptability, resilience, gratitude, and most importantly, kindness. 
Each day brings new challenges, but above all it presents us the 
opportunity to grow in compassion and kindness.

Reaction to the pandemic among the people with whom I interact is 
certainly varied, but in the end it all comes down to the kind of people
 we’ve always been. Western Kansans are uniquely independent, but we’ve 
always taken care of each other. Although there is much uncertainty, we 
do know that we will continue working to care for one another.

The HaysMed Foundation is one vehicle by which you can choose to do 
just that. You may want to ensure you, your family, and your neighbors 
are inoculated against the seasonal flu. You may want to ensure our 
front-line healthcare workers feel support and appreciation from their 
community. You may want to provide scholarship opportunities to an 
outstanding nurse who took care of you, your child, your spouse, or a 
parent. You may want to ensure that visitors to HaysMed can charge a 
cell phone, enjoy a reflective moment in the chapel, or receive 
comforting care and education to return to their homes the best way they
 are able.

All of these things and a hundred more are what we’ve been doing at 
the HaysMed Foundation for 25 years. To those who have helped, I offer 
my humble thanks. To those who haven’t quite gotten around to it yet, 
we’re ready to help you find the projects, programs, or people about 
which you feel most passionate. We wish each of you a joyous, loving, 
and above all, a healthy new year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608755301101.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JEFF BRULL HaysMed Foundation executive directorI’m beginning this installment of “The View From Here” with the 
understatement of the century: This year has certainly been challenging.
 We’ve all learned so much, not only about COVID, but about technology, 
adaptability, resilience, gratitude, and most importantly, kindness. 
Each day brings new challenges, but above all it presents us the 
opportunity to grow in compassion and kindness.Reaction to the pandemic among the people with whom I interact is 
certainly varied, but in the end it all comes down to the kind of people
 we’ve always been. Western Kansans are uniquely independent, but we’ve 
always taken care of each other. Although there is much uncertainty, we 
do know that we will continue working to care for one another.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608755342277.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The HaysMed Foundation is one vehicle by which you can choose to do 
just that. You may want to ensure you, your family, and your neighbors 
are inoculated against the seasonal flu. You may want to ensure our 
front-line healthcare workers feel support and appreciation from their 
community. You may want to provide scholarship opportunities to an 
outstanding nurse who took care of you, your child, your spouse, or a 
parent. You may want to ensure that visitors to HaysMed can charge a 
cell phone, enjoy a reflective moment in the chapel, or receive 
comforting care and education to return to their homes the best way they
 are able.All of these things and a hundred more are what we’ve been doing at 
the HaysMed Foundation for 25 years. To those who have helped, I offer 
my humble thanks. To those who haven’t quite gotten around to it yet, 
we’re ready to help you find the projects, programs, or people about 
which you feel most passionate. We wish each of you a joyous, loving, 
and above all, a healthy new year.

The View From Here from HaysMed Foundation's Jeff Brull

<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="Year of COVID-19 changes eating habits" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/pevpi-f5df0d?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><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: Year of COVID-19 changes eating habits

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

<a>Those celebrating 40 years:</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608313221900.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in January. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.<a>Those celebrating 40 years:</a><ul>
 <li>Michael Hollis, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Rolla</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 30 years:<ul>
 <li>Roger Anderson, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Wamego</li><li>Chris Herrick, Director of Planning and Development,&nbsp;Topeka</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 20 years:<ul>
 <li>Bobby Davis, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Blue Mound</li><li>Dennis Kennedy, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Mankato</li><li>Jennifer Kern, Public Service Administrator I,&nbsp;Mayetta</li><li>Mitchell Kline, Welder,&nbsp;Norton</li><li>Ian Stringham, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Osawatomie</li><li>Karla Thies, Assistant Bureau Chief,&nbsp;Tecumseh</li><li>Benjamin Tush, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Garnett</li><li>Cody Ward, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Logan</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 10 years:<ul>
 <li>Rita Baltazor, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Salina</li><li>Michelle Burnett, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Ellinwood</li><li>Mitchell Cady, Engineering Technician,&nbsp;Salina</li><li>James Cedeno, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Lyons</li><li>Jamie Davis, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Scott City</li><li>Matthew Dotson, Engineering Technician Midpoint,&nbsp;Salina</li><li>Raul Flores, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Moscow</li><li>Leonard Harding, Equipment Operator Midpoint,&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>Kevin Height, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Barnes</li><li>Arthur Helvie, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Haysville</li><li>Josiah Jones, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Atwood</li><li>Marcella Larrabee, State Auditor I,&nbsp;Lawrence</li><li>Brian Mallory, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Jewell</li><li>Robert Percival Jr., District Construction Engineer,&nbsp;Norton</li><li>Earl Sowers, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Corning</li><li>Peter Tobaben, Engineering Associate III,&nbsp;Lenexa</li><li>Tabitha Weigel, Accountant IV,&nbsp;Topeka</li>
 </ul>

KDOT employees from NW Kan. among those celebrating service anniversaries

Government surplus commodities will be distributed in Hays at&nbsp; Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store&nbsp; inside The Gamers Guild at 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, January 1 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until we run out.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: $1,383 Household of one $1,868 Household of two $2,353 Household of three $2,839 Household of four $3,324 Household of five $3,809 Household of six $4,295 Household of seven $4,780 Household of eight Add $486 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be lentils, tomato sauce, garbanzo beans, split peas, dried cherries, orange juice, chicken, blueberries, mozzarella cheese, ground beef, and pork. 

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;

Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580255349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Government surplus commodities will be distributed in Hays at&nbsp; Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store&nbsp; inside The Gamers Guild at 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, January 1 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until we run out.Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: $1,383 Household of one $1,868 Household of two $2,353 Household of three $2,839 Household of four $3,324 Household of five $3,809 Household of six $4,295 Household of seven $4,780 Household of eight Add $486 for each additional family member after eight Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be lentils, tomato sauce, garbanzo beans, split peas, dried cherries, orange juice, chicken, blueberries, mozzarella cheese, ground beef, and pork. Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>- Submitted

Surplus food commodities to be distributed Jan. 1

LAWRENCE — A crew from the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), based at the University of Kansas, will be in western Kansas measuring groundwater levels the first week of January.

Levels are measured annually as part of a joint project conducted by the KGS and the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources (DWR) to monitor the health of the state’s valuable groundwater resources.

Weather permitting, the KGS crew will be working in the following areas:

Most of the measured wells tap into the High Plains aquifer, a massive network of underground water-bearing rocks and the main source of water in the region. The rest draw from deeper aquifers or shallower alluvial aquifers along creeks and rivers.

Underlying portions of eight states, the High Plains aquifer in Kansas encompasses three individual ones — the Ogallala aquifer, the Equus Beds around Wichita and Hutchinson, and the Great Bend Prairie aquifer around Pratt and Great Bend. The largest by far, the Ogallala extends into all eight states.

“The Ogallala portion of the Kansas High Plains aquifer, essentially the western third of the state, has seen some level of drought conditions going back to last spring,” said Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager. “That is especially true for those counties bordering Colorado.”

The accumulation or lack of precipitation during the growing season influences the amount of pumping, which is the main driver in groundwater level rises and declines. In 2020, extreme drought conditions in late spring and early summer, mainly in southwest Kansas, abated somewhat only to reappear recently, especially across northwest Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“With such a dry growing season, pumping demands likely will have been higher, and I expect we'll see groundwater declines prevalent across the state,” Wilson said.&nbsp;

Groundwater levels in much of the state’s portion of the Ogallala aquifer, especially in southwest Kansas, have been on the decline since water use started to rise in the mid 20th&nbsp;century.

Because average annual precipitation rates gradually decrease across the state from east to west, the Equus Beds and Great Bend Prairie aquifer receive about 35 and 25 inches per year, respectively, compared to 15 inches along the Colorado border. Also shallower than the Ogallala aquifer, the two central Kansas aquifers are more influenced by recharge — water seeping down from the surface — which makes them less susceptible to permanent losses.&nbsp;

The KGS and DWR measure groundwater levels in December, January and February to avoid, as much as possible, short-term declines caused by widespread pumping during the growing season. Of the 1,428 wells being monitored in 48 counties, the KGS will measure 587, and crews from DWR’s field offices in Garden City, Stafford and Stockton will measure 841.

Many of the wells, accessed with landowners’ permission, have been monitored for years, although new ones are added as older wells become inaccessible or to fill in spatial gaps in the monitoring network. The majority are within the boundaries of the state’s five Groundwater Management Districts (GMDs), which are organized and governed by area landowners and water users to address local water-resource issues.

Historical annual measurements for each well are available at the KGS website (<a href="http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Magellan/WaterLevels/index.html">http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Magellan/WaterLevels/index.html</a>). Results of measurements made in January 2021 will be added in late February.

<figure>
 <img src="http://today.ku.edu/sites/news.ku.edu/files/images/general/2020_news/december/kgs%20well%20measurement%20533.jpg" alt="A Kansas Geological Survey crew member checks groundwater levels." />
 <figcaption>A Kansas Geological Survey crew member checks groundwater levels.</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — A crew from the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), based at the University of Kansas, will be in western Kansas measuring groundwater levels the first week of January.Levels are measured annually as part of a joint project conducted by the KGS and the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources (DWR) to monitor the health of the state’s valuable groundwater resources.Weather permitting, the KGS crew will be working in the following areas:<ul>
 <li>Jan. 4:&nbsp;Near Colby and Atwood</li><li>Jan. 5:&nbsp;Goodland and St. Francis</li><li>Jan. 6:&nbsp;Tribune, Syracuse and Ulysses</li><li>Jan. 7:&nbsp;Elkhart and Liberal</li><li>Jan. 8:&nbsp;Meade and Dodge City.</li>
 </ul>Most of the measured wells tap into the High Plains aquifer, a massive network of underground water-bearing rocks and the main source of water in the region. The rest draw from deeper aquifers or shallower alluvial aquifers along creeks and rivers.Underlying portions of eight states, the High Plains aquifer in Kansas encompasses three individual ones — the Ogallala aquifer, the Equus Beds around Wichita and Hutchinson, and the Great Bend Prairie aquifer around Pratt and Great Bend. The largest by far, the Ogallala extends into all eight states.“The Ogallala portion of the Kansas High Plains aquifer, essentially the western third of the state, has seen some level of drought conditions going back to last spring,” said Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager. “That is especially true for those counties bordering Colorado.”The accumulation or lack of precipitation during the growing season influences the amount of pumping, which is the main driver in groundwater level rises and declines. In 2020, extreme drought conditions in late spring and early summer, mainly in southwest Kansas, abated somewhat only to reappear recently, especially across northwest Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;“With such a dry growing season, pumping demands likely will have been higher, and I expect we'll see groundwater declines prevalent across the state,” Wilson said.&nbsp;Groundwater levels in much of the state’s portion of the Ogallala aquifer, especially in southwest Kansas, have been on the decline since water use started to rise in the mid 20th&nbsp;century.Because average annual precipitation rates gradually decrease across the state from east to west, the Equus Beds and Great Bend Prairie aquifer receive about 35 and 25 inches per year, respectively, compared to 15 inches along the Colorado border. Also shallower than the Ogallala aquifer, the two central Kansas aquifers are more influenced by recharge — water seeping down from the surface — which makes them less susceptible to permanent losses.&nbsp;The KGS and DWR measure groundwater levels in December, January and February to avoid, as much as possible, short-term declines caused by widespread pumping during the growing season. Of the 1,428 wells being monitored in 48 counties, the KGS will measure 587, and crews from DWR’s field offices in Garden City, Stafford and Stockton will measure 841.Many of the wells, accessed with landowners’ permission, have been monitored for years, although new ones are added as older wells become inaccessible or to fill in spatial gaps in the monitoring network. The majority are within the boundaries of the state’s five Groundwater Management Districts (GMDs), which are organized and governed by area landowners and water users to address local water-resource issues.Historical annual measurements for each well are available at the KGS website (<a href="http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Magellan/WaterLevels/index.html">http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Magellan/WaterLevels/index.html</a>). Results of measurements made in January 2021 will be added in late February.

NW Kansas groundwater levels to be measured by KGS in January

CRETE, Neb. — Doane University, Crete, Neb., has 269 students who have been named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2020 semester, including a WaKeeney resident. 

Students must achieve a minimum 3.7 grade point average on a 4.0 scale and hold 12 graded hours to qualify for this academic distinction.

The following are area students who appeared on Doane University's Fall 2020 Dean's List:

Parker Opat, freshman, Trego Community High School, WaKeeney

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608591776239.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseCRETE, Neb. — Doane University, Crete, Neb., has 269 students who have been named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2020 semester, including a WaKeeney resident. Students must achieve a minimum 3.7 grade point average on a 4.0 scale and hold 12 graded hours to qualify for this academic distinction.The following are area students who appeared on Doane University's Fall 2020 Dean's List:Parker Opat, freshman, Trego Community High School, WaKeeney &nbsp;

WaKeeney student named to Doane University Dean's List

After the holidays, many municipalities allow old Christmas trees to be placed curbside. Trees are then collected and ground up for mulch or burned. If you miss the designated date, or your trash collector doesn't accept trees, there are several options to prolong the useful life of the tree.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dfeb94c5-a09d-4da7-b37f-d757e2685593">RELATED: Free Christmas tree disposal site open</a>

An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish, and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder. The birds benefit from having escape cover nearby when hawks or cats threaten, and the dense boughs reduce the wind chill on a cold night.&nbsp;

Sinking your Christmas tree in a pond is an easy way to improve fish habitat and fishing. The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life. Larger fish are drawn by the shade and the presence of prey.&nbsp;

How do you sink a tree? Tie the base to a cinder block with a short, stout rope, and toss it in. Just be sure to get permission from the pond owner first! Using the little tree around the landscape requires clipping off all of the branches. Use the boughs to add extra insulation around semi-hardy perennials or to trees and shrubs that were recently planted. The leftover trunk may be used as a garden stake next spring.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Or cut and let it dry for a few weeks, and you will have some easy lighting firewood. Just beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions. This can delight the youngsters, but for safety's sake, keep an eye on the fire when burning Christmas tree logs!&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>After the holidays, many municipalities allow old Christmas trees to be placed curbside. Trees are then collected and ground up for mulch or burned. If you miss the designated date, or your trash collector doesn't accept trees, there are several options to prolong the useful life of the tree.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dfeb94c5-a09d-4da7-b37f-d757e2685593">RELATED: Free Christmas tree disposal site open</a>An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish, and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder. The birds benefit from having escape cover nearby when hawks or cats threaten, and the dense boughs reduce the wind chill on a cold night.&nbsp;Sinking your Christmas tree in a pond is an easy way to improve fish habitat and fishing. The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life. Larger fish are drawn by the shade and the presence of prey.&nbsp;How do you sink a tree? Tie the base to a cinder block with a short, stout rope, and toss it in. Just be sure to get permission from the pond owner first! Using the little tree around the landscape requires clipping off all of the branches. Use the boughs to add extra insulation around semi-hardy perennials or to trees and shrubs that were recently planted. The leftover trunk may be used as a garden stake next spring.&nbsp;&nbsp; Or cut and let it dry for a few weeks, and you will have some easy lighting firewood. Just beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions. This can delight the youngsters, but for safety's sake, keep an eye on the fire when burning Christmas tree logs!&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: What to do with the Christmas tree after Christmas     

<div><iframe title="Major waterline projects on the way in Hays" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/cjj39-f5dee7?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><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: Major waterline projects on the way in Hays

Beginning Dec. 26 and continuing through Jan. 3, the Hays 
Police Department will join many other police agencies across the state,
 including the Kansas Highway Patrol, in the Taking Down DUI&nbsp;traffic enforcement campaign, sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation. &nbsp;

The
 winter holidays are upon us, but this winter holiday is different. We 
are in the middle of a COVID pandemic. While we are all aware of the 
effects COVID has had on us, it has had a dramatic and devastating 
effect on our roads as well.

Marijuana, opioid, and alcohol use 
have increased substantially in general during the pandemic, but also 
with motor vehicle drivers. These impairing substances are now 
identified in nearly 25% of serious and fatal crashes. Remember, these 
crashes do not just affect the impaired driver — these crashes involve 
others that share the vehicle and road with us — passengers, other 
motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Impaired driving crashes are 
completely preventable.

According to KDOT, in comparison with 
other holidays, the New Year’s Holiday period outranks most of the other
 holidays in number of crashes in which at least one of the drivers is 
impaired by alcohol and/or other drugs. Your choice to drive or to take 
other safe transportation rests solely with you.&nbsp;

A DUI will 
change your life forever. A DUI arrest and conviction results in jail 
time, the suspension or permanent revocation of driver’s license, 
thousands of dollars for fines, bail, court costs, attorney fees and 
increased insurance costs.

“Keep in mind that if you are going to 
be using ANY impairing substance – don’t even consider driving. Line up a
 ride with a sober acquaintance or other safe transportation BEFORE you 
go out. On the drive to zero, you are in the driver’s seat.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574697410116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPDBeginning Dec. 26 and continuing through Jan. 3, the Hays 
Police Department will join many other police agencies across the state,
 including the Kansas Highway Patrol, in the Taking Down DUI&nbsp;traffic enforcement campaign, sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation. &nbsp;The
 winter holidays are upon us, but this winter holiday is different. We 
are in the middle of a COVID pandemic. While we are all aware of the 
effects COVID has had on us, it has had a dramatic and devastating 
effect on our roads as well.Marijuana, opioid, and alcohol use 
have increased substantially in general during the pandemic, but also 
with motor vehicle drivers. These impairing substances are now 
identified in nearly 25% of serious and fatal crashes. Remember, these 
crashes do not just affect the impaired driver — these crashes involve 
others that share the vehicle and road with us — passengers, other 
motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Impaired driving crashes are 
completely preventable.According to KDOT, in comparison with 
other holidays, the New Year’s Holiday period outranks most of the other
 holidays in number of crashes in which at least one of the drivers is 
impaired by alcohol and/or other drugs. Your choice to drive or to take 
other safe transportation rests solely with you.&nbsp;A DUI will 
change your life forever. A DUI arrest and conviction results in jail 
time, the suspension or permanent revocation of driver’s license, 
thousands of dollars for fines, bail, court costs, attorney fees and 
increased insurance costs.“Keep in mind that if you are going to 
be using ANY impairing substance – don’t even consider driving. Line up a
 ride with a sober acquaintance or other safe transportation BEFORE you 
go out. On the drive to zero, you are in the driver’s seat.”

Hays PD joins 'Taking Down DUI' campaign

Hays residents are encouraged to bring their real Christmas trees to the free disposal site located north of the Public Works building, 1002 Vine.

 This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area. Directional signs are posted.

Please remove all plastic, ornaments and lights before leaving the tree. 

The disposal site is open through Monday, Jan. 9. 

Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the U.S. 183 Bypass and is available for pickup free of charge. 

If there are questions, call the Solid Waste Division at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577473633457.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysHays residents are encouraged to bring their real Christmas trees to the free disposal site located north of the Public Works building, 1002 Vine. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area. Directional signs are posted.Please remove all plastic, ornaments and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site is open through Monday, Jan. 9. Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the U.S. 183 Bypass and is available for pickup free of charge. If there are questions, call the Solid Waste Division at 785-628-7350.

Free Christmas tree disposal site open; trees to be mulched

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with sportscaster and author Bob Davis.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1726c09f-9b53-4650-bbc7-6d7b7b6ad57d">To read more about Davis' recent book click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Sportscaster and author Bob Davis" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/tjjiv-f4aef9?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with sportscaster and author Bob Davis.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1726c09f-9b53-4650-bbc7-6d7b7b6ad57d">To read more about Davis' recent book click here.</a>

🎤Forward Ever: Sportscaster and author Bob Davis

In “The Caregiver Helpbook”, the author shares these flight attendant’s instructions, “If the oxygen masks drop down, put on your oxygen mask first before helping others”. If you don’t help yourself first, you may not be able to help others. This scenario is also true with caregiving.&nbsp;

Did you know that during this last year, caregivers provided about 18.4 billion hours of unpaid care to someone they love? Roughly 80% of the care that is provided at home is delivered by family members. A big concern is that often the caregivers forget to take care of themselves.&nbsp;

Last month, I was able to attend a virtual class offered by Extension agents from the Southwest area. The Powerful Tools for Caregivers class is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. The class included information on helping to reduce stress and learn to relax, communicating effectively, helping make tough decisions, and learning to set goals and problem solve.&nbsp;

If you are a caregiver, consider joining an upcoming class to be offered for six consecutive Thursdays, Jan. 14, through Feb. 18, from 1:30 to 3 pm. The class will cost $5 and includes a Caregiver Helpbook that is covered by grant funds. Class size is limited, so don’t delay signing up. The link to register for the class is: <a href="https://bit.ly/tools4care">https://bit.ly/tools4care</a> If you know a caregiver who could benefit from this class, please share the information with them.&nbsp;

Are there other things that we can do to support caregivers? There certainly are:&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>In “The Caregiver Helpbook”, the author shares these flight attendant’s instructions, “If the oxygen masks drop down, put on your oxygen mask first before helping others”. If you don’t help yourself first, you may not be able to help others. This scenario is also true with caregiving.&nbsp;Did you know that during this last year, caregivers provided about 18.4 billion hours of unpaid care to someone they love? Roughly 80% of the care that is provided at home is delivered by family members. A big concern is that often the caregivers forget to take care of themselves.&nbsp;Last month, I was able to attend a virtual class offered by Extension agents from the Southwest area. The Powerful Tools for Caregivers class is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. The class included information on helping to reduce stress and learn to relax, communicating effectively, helping make tough decisions, and learning to set goals and problem solve.&nbsp;If you are a caregiver, consider joining an upcoming class to be offered for six consecutive Thursdays, Jan. 14, through Feb. 18, from 1:30 to 3 pm. The class will cost $5 and includes a Caregiver Helpbook that is covered by grant funds. Class size is limited, so don’t delay signing up. The link to register for the class is: <a href="https://bit.ly/tools4care">https://bit.ly/tools4care</a> If you know a caregiver who could benefit from this class, please share the information with them.&nbsp;Are there other things that we can do to support caregivers? There certainly are:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Offer to help them with daily tasks. Running an errand or picking up a few groceries can be a big relief to the caregiver.&nbsp;</li><li>Give them a break. Stay with the care receiver while the care giver goes to the doctor for a routine checkup.</li><li>Bring a simple meal for them. The simpler and easier it is to re-heat or eat the better.</li><li>Send a card of encouragement to the caregiver and offer some positive words of encouragement to them.&nbsp;</li><li>Help them find local resources for support with their situation.</li><li>Call them on the phone frequently.</li><li>Encourage them to take time for themselves. Thinking of their own health is not selfish. Taking care of themselves benefits everyone.</li>
 </ul>	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Taking care of caregivers

&nbsp;TOPEKA — Members of the Kansas Livestock Association elected Jerry Kuckelman, a cattle feeder from Manhattan, as president during the group’s annual business meeting December 17. The membership chose Oskaloosa rancher Phil Perry as KLA president-elect. Kuckelman and Perry will lead the 5,700-member organization during the next year.

Kuckelman is the president and chief executive officer of Innovative Livestock Services, which consists of eight feedyards in central Kansas and south-central Nebraska and an extensive farming operation. He began his career as a cattle buyer for IBP, then transitioned into feedyard management where he spent 27 years, with most of that time as manager of Fairleigh Feed Yard in Scott City. Kuckelman joined ILS in early 2011 as chief operating officer.

He grew up on a diversified farm near Baileyville that involved cattle feeding, dairy and hog operations. Today, he and his wife, Linda, reside in Manhattan. The couple has three grown daughters, including Jill Miller and her husband, Justin; Amber Reynolds and her husband, Jake; and Kelsey Hess and her husband, Tyler. The Millers welcomed the family’s first grandson, Parker, in February.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He was introduced to KLA in 1985 when he was elected as Scott County KLA director. Since that time, Kuckelman has held various positions within the organization. He serves on the KLA Executive Committee and KLA Board of Directors. Kuckelman is a member of the KLA Risk Management Services Safety Committee and was chairman of the KLA Cattle Feeders Council in 2017. He also represents KLA on the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Board of Directors. In addition to his service to KLA and NCBA, he currently is a member of the Livestock and Meat Industry Council.

Perry has been involved in the cattle industry for more than 40 years. He and his wife, Rhonda, own a cow-calf operation and custom preconditioning business. The bulk of the Angus-based cowherd calves in the spring. Depending on marketing opportunities, the Perrys either sell calves after weaning or retain ownership through the finishing stage, which is carried out in custom feedyards in western Kansas.

Perry grew up in Oskaloosa and he and Rhonda currently reside on land that has been in his family for six generations. They have two grown children, Nickie and Nathan, and 11 grandchildren. Nickie, her husband, Gary Johnson, and their five children live in Overland Park. Nathan, his wife, Lynn, and their six children live near Oskaloosa.

Involvement in KLA has been important to Perry throughout his 37 years of membership. He currently serves on the KLA Board of Directors and the Jefferson County KLA Committee. Perry was chairman of the KLA Stockgrowers Council in 2014 and served as Jefferson County KLA Chairman from 2012 to 2014. He also has served on the NCBA Board of Directors and is a graduate of the NCBA Young Cattlemen’s Conference. Additionally, Perry is a member of the Kansas Beef Council Executive Committee and represents Kansas on the Cattlemen’s Beef Board.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KLA is a 5,700-member trade organization representing the state’s livestock business on legislative, regulatory and industry issues at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608314219109.jpeg" alt="KLA President-Elect Phil Perry, Oskaloosa, and KLA President Jerry Kuckelman of Manhattan. Kuckelman, formerly of Scott City, operates&nbsp;eight feedyards in central Kansas and south central Nebraska." />
 <figcaption>KLA President-Elect Phil Perry, Oskaloosa, and KLA President Jerry Kuckelman of Manhattan. Kuckelman, formerly of Scott City, operates&nbsp;eight feedyards in central Kansas and south central Nebraska.</figcaption>
 </figure>KLA&nbsp;TOPEKA — Members of the Kansas Livestock Association elected Jerry Kuckelman, a cattle feeder from Manhattan, as president during the group’s annual business meeting December 17. The membership chose Oskaloosa rancher Phil Perry as KLA president-elect. Kuckelman and Perry will lead the 5,700-member organization during the next year.Kuckelman is the president and chief executive officer of Innovative Livestock Services, which consists of eight feedyards in central Kansas and south-central Nebraska and an extensive farming operation. He began his career as a cattle buyer for IBP, then transitioned into feedyard management where he spent 27 years, with most of that time as manager of Fairleigh Feed Yard in Scott City. Kuckelman joined ILS in early 2011 as chief operating officer.He grew up on a diversified farm near Baileyville that involved cattle feeding, dairy and hog operations. Today, he and his wife, Linda, reside in Manhattan. The couple has three grown daughters, including Jill Miller and her husband, Justin; Amber Reynolds and her husband, Jake; and Kelsey Hess and her husband, Tyler. The Millers welcomed the family’s first grandson, Parker, in February.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was introduced to KLA in 1985 when he was elected as Scott County KLA director. Since that time, Kuckelman has held various positions within the organization. He serves on the KLA Executive Committee and KLA Board of Directors. Kuckelman is a member of the KLA Risk Management Services Safety Committee and was chairman of the KLA Cattle Feeders Council in 2017. He also represents KLA on the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Board of Directors. In addition to his service to KLA and NCBA, he currently is a member of the Livestock and Meat Industry Council.Perry has been involved in the cattle industry for more than 40 years. He and his wife, Rhonda, own a cow-calf operation and custom preconditioning business. The bulk of the Angus-based cowherd calves in the spring. Depending on marketing opportunities, the Perrys either sell calves after weaning or retain ownership through the finishing stage, which is carried out in custom feedyards in western Kansas.Perry grew up in Oskaloosa and he and Rhonda currently reside on land that has been in his family for six generations. They have two grown children, Nickie and Nathan, and 11 grandchildren. Nickie, her husband, Gary Johnson, and their five children live in Overland Park. Nathan, his wife, Lynn, and their six children live near Oskaloosa.Involvement in KLA has been important to Perry throughout his 37 years of membership. He currently serves on the KLA Board of Directors and the Jefferson County KLA Committee. Perry was chairman of the KLA Stockgrowers Council in 2014 and served as Jefferson County KLA Chairman from 2012 to 2014. He also has served on the NCBA Board of Directors and is a graduate of the NCBA Young Cattlemen’s Conference. Additionally, Perry is a member of the Kansas Beef Council Executive Committee and represents Kansas on the Cattlemen’s Beef Board.&nbsp;&nbsp;KLA is a 5,700-member trade organization representing the state’s livestock business on legislative, regulatory and industry issues at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.

Former western Kan. cattleman elected livestock association president

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

High school football is a family affair in rural Kansas. On Friday nights, moms and dads, grandparents, brothers and sisters, friends, neighbors and community members gather at the high school stadium for the weekly football game. It becomes a unifying community event. Today we’ll learn more about a Kansas family with a remarkable, multi-generational record of success in high school football.&nbsp;

Last week we learned about Roger Barta, the legendary high school football coach who led the Smith Center Redmen to the nation’s longest high school winning streak. Not only did Roger have a great career, he also coached his son Brooks, who was a tough player and an outstanding athlete at Smith Center, a rural community of 1,665 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Brooks went on to play college ball at K-State. These were the bad old days of K-State football, when the team was mired in a 27-game winless streak that would lead to the team being identified by Sports Illustrated as Futility U. But shortly after Brooks Barta arrived on campus, so did another gentleman by the name of Bill Snyder. Things began to change.&nbsp;

“The time and effort (that was required) probably doubled under coach Snyder,” Brooks said. Barta met the challenge of this demanding new work ethic and he saw the results.&nbsp;

Brooks was a four-year starter and a three-time co-captain under coach Snyder. He received First Team All-Big 8 honors and helped the Wildcats to a 7-4 record in 1991, their winningest season since 1954. He was the team leader in tackles all four years.&nbsp;

Brooks’ hometown, Smith Center, is in northern Kansas just about 15 miles south of the Nebraska line. Growing up that close to Nebraska, Brooks was well aware that Nebraska had long been the dominant football program. When NU played in Manhattan, the stadium would be more red than purple as Nebraska fans made the trip to watch another win over K-State.&nbsp;

But under coach Snyder, the balance of power began to shift. “In one game, we were ahead of Nebraska by a couple of touchdowns in the fourth quarter, and we were earning respect,” Brooks said. He and his teammates laid the foundation of what has been called “the greatest turnaround in college football history” – and it’s not one to be taken lightly.&nbsp;

Brooks Barta finished his career ranking second in school history in career tackles (436) and career assisted tackles (281). He was also an achiever in the classroom. An Academic All-American and four-time First Team All-Big 8 selection, he compiled a 3.25 GPA in math education and twice received the K-State Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award.&nbsp;

Brooks taught and coached at Abilene for three years and earned a National Football Foundation scholarship for getting his master’s degree in administration. In 1996, he accepted the head coaching position at Holton High School.&nbsp;

At Holton, he has achieved a remarkable level of success. His teams have won three state championships and made it to the state championship game seven times. What have been the keys to his success?&nbsp;

“I played for great coaches who had a great relationship with their players,” Brooks said. “Toughness, intelligence and team: Those are the three foundations we use,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s a team game. We ask a lot of our kids and we want them to have a good experience. We make all our kids feel valued. It’s important for the parents to see their little boys grow into young men.&nbsp;

“Holton is a great place to raise our family,” Brooks said. His wife Tonya is president of Farmers State Bank in Holton. They have a son Mason and a daughter Tabor who are both students at K-State.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

High school football is a family affair, with family and community members coming together to support the team. We commend Roger and Brooks Barta and their families for making a difference with excellence in coaching, and in teaching young men the lessons of life.&nbsp;

And there’s more. The Bartas have another generation of football success within their family. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608734773017.png" alt="Brooks Barta" />
 <figcaption>Brooks Barta</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentHigh school football is a family affair in rural Kansas. On Friday nights, moms and dads, grandparents, brothers and sisters, friends, neighbors and community members gather at the high school stadium for the weekly football game. It becomes a unifying community event. Today we’ll learn more about a Kansas family with a remarkable, multi-generational record of success in high school football.&nbsp;Last week we learned about Roger Barta, the legendary high school football coach who led the Smith Center Redmen to the nation’s longest high school winning streak. Not only did Roger have a great career, he also coached his son Brooks, who was a tough player and an outstanding athlete at Smith Center, a rural community of 1,665 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Brooks went on to play college ball at K-State. These were the bad old days of K-State football, when the team was mired in a 27-game winless streak that would lead to the team being identified by Sports Illustrated as Futility U. But shortly after Brooks Barta arrived on campus, so did another gentleman by the name of Bill Snyder. Things began to change.&nbsp;“The time and effort (that was required) probably doubled under coach Snyder,” Brooks said. Barta met the challenge of this demanding new work ethic and he saw the results.&nbsp;Brooks was a four-year starter and a three-time co-captain under coach Snyder. He received First Team All-Big 8 honors and helped the Wildcats to a 7-4 record in 1991, their winningest season since 1954. He was the team leader in tackles all four years.&nbsp;Brooks’ hometown, Smith Center, is in northern Kansas just about 15 miles south of the Nebraska line. Growing up that close to Nebraska, Brooks was well aware that Nebraska had long been the dominant football program. When NU played in Manhattan, the stadium would be more red than purple as Nebraska fans made the trip to watch another win over K-State.&nbsp;But under coach Snyder, the balance of power began to shift. “In one game, we were ahead of Nebraska by a couple of touchdowns in the fourth quarter, and we were earning respect,” Brooks said. He and his teammates laid the foundation of what has been called “the greatest turnaround in college football history” – and it’s not one to be taken lightly.&nbsp;Brooks Barta finished his career ranking second in school history in career tackles (436) and career assisted tackles (281). He was also an achiever in the classroom. An Academic All-American and four-time First Team All-Big 8 selection, he compiled a 3.25 GPA in math education and twice received the K-State Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award.&nbsp;Brooks taught and coached at Abilene for three years and earned a National Football Foundation scholarship for getting his master’s degree in administration. In 1996, he accepted the head coaching position at Holton High School.&nbsp;At Holton, he has achieved a remarkable level of success. His teams have won three state championships and made it to the state championship game seven times. What have been the keys to his success?&nbsp;“I played for great coaches who had a great relationship with their players,” Brooks said. “Toughness, intelligence and team: Those are the three foundations we use,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s a team game. We ask a lot of our kids and we want them to have a good experience. We make all our kids feel valued. It’s important for the parents to see their little boys grow into young men.&nbsp;“Holton is a great place to raise our family,” Brooks said. His wife Tonya is president of Farmers State Bank in Holton. They have a son Mason and a daughter Tabor who are both students at K-State.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;High school football is a family affair, with family and community members coming together to support the team. We commend Roger and Brooks Barta and their families for making a difference with excellence in coaching, and in teaching young men the lessons of life.&nbsp;And there’s more. The Bartas have another generation of football success within their family. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

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