K-State’s Kiss encourages Kansans to monitor credit, financial information&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – Before you pitch that unidentifiable piece of mail without opening it – that bland envelope with no return address – think again. It could be the first warning that something’s amiss with your finances.&nbsp;

As COVID-19 swept through the country this year, ushering in the threat of illness, business closures and rising unemployment, it also led to a sharp increase in fraudulent unemployment claims linked to identity theft. &nbsp;

And Kansas isn’t immune. The state is seeing a historic increase in reports of fraudulent unemployment claims, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/docs/default-source/home-page-news/2020/fraud-news-release-draft.pdf">Kansas Department of Labor statement</a>. KDOL said as of Oct. 6, it had prevented 45,000 identity theft-related fraudulent claims from being paid out. &nbsp;

KDOL said the fraudulent claims are filed using the names and Personally Identifiable Information (PII) of people who have not lost their jobs. Kansans are often unaware a claim has been filed on their behalf until they receive a “Notice of Determination” letter in the mail from KDOL, or until their employer receives a notice to verify the employee’s status. &nbsp;

“A review of these fraudulent claims indicates that scammers are obtaining personal information through activities such as credit card data breaches, email phishing schemes or sophisticated cybersecurity attacks and using that information to illegally attempt to collect unemployment insurance,” said Kansas Acting Secretary of Labor Ryan Wright in the Oct. 6 statement. &nbsp;

There are steps Kansans can take to protect themselves, as well as ways to mitigate financial damage if fraud occurs, said K-State Research and Extension financial management specialist Elizabeth Kiss. She advises:&nbsp;

In this day of using cell phones and computers for conducting business online, people tend to check their postal mailboxes less frequently than they used to, Kiss said. That’s a mistake for a couple of reasons – it may delay notification about a problem with your credit; and in extreme cases, if the box is full, the postal service will stop delivering to it.&nbsp;

“If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of recovering from someone’s attempt to use your identity to make a fraudulent unemployment claim or any financial fraud, keep a record of what you’ve done to rectify the situation, when you’ve done it and who you’ve spoken with,” Kiss said. &nbsp;

She recommends following steps outlined by the Federal Trade Commission on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.identitytheft.gov/">www.IdentityTheft.gov</a>if you’ve been a victim of identity theft of any kind, starting with contacting companies where you know the fraud occurred. &nbsp;

In response to the increase in fraudulent claims in Kansas, KDOL created the<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ks.gov/">www.ReportFraud.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;website so individuals and businesses can report suspected cases of identity theft related to an unemployment claim. Once a claim is reported on the site, the system generates a police report number and tips for victims to use to help mitigate the damage from the theft. The agency’s fraud team can then prevent the fraudulent claims from being paid. &nbsp;

Just like monitoring your physical health, it’s important to stay vigilant in monitoring your financial health, Kiss said.&nbsp;

<h2>K-State’s Kiss encourages Kansans to monitor credit, financial information&nbsp;</h2>MANHATTAN – Before you pitch that unidentifiable piece of mail without opening it – that bland envelope with no return address – think again. It could be the first warning that something’s amiss with your finances.&nbsp;As COVID-19 swept through the country this year, ushering in the threat of illness, business closures and rising unemployment, it also led to a sharp increase in fraudulent unemployment claims linked to identity theft. &nbsp;And Kansas isn’t immune. The state is seeing a historic increase in reports of fraudulent unemployment claims, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/docs/default-source/home-page-news/2020/fraud-news-release-draft.pdf">Kansas Department of Labor statement</a>. KDOL said as of Oct. 6, it had prevented 45,000 identity theft-related fraudulent claims from being paid out. &nbsp;KDOL said the fraudulent claims are filed using the names and Personally Identifiable Information (PII) of people who have not lost their jobs. Kansans are often unaware a claim has been filed on their behalf until they receive a “Notice of Determination” letter in the mail from KDOL, or until their employer receives a notice to verify the employee’s status. &nbsp;“A review of these fraudulent claims indicates that scammers are obtaining personal information through activities such as credit card data breaches, email phishing schemes or sophisticated cybersecurity attacks and using that information to illegally attempt to collect unemployment insurance,” said Kansas Acting Secretary of Labor Ryan Wright in the Oct. 6 statement. &nbsp;There are steps Kansans can take to protect themselves, as well as ways to mitigate financial damage if fraud occurs, said K-State Research and Extension financial management specialist Elizabeth Kiss. She advises:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Keep track of your financial information. Whether you get paper copies or electronic copies of bank, credit card, and retirement account statements, monitor them closely and routinely. That way, you’ll know the familiar from the unfamiliar. &nbsp;</li><li>Don’t let statements or other financial documents build up in your mailbox or sit in a pile of unopened mail. &nbsp;</li><li>Open your mail. Don’t assume something is junk mail or a donation solicitation and throw it away just because it’s not from a recognizable or familiar source. It could contain something you should be aware of. &nbsp;</li><li>Practice what Kiss calls “good financial management hygiene.” Don’t leave statements lying around the house where a service worker or casual acquaintance might see them. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Destroy documents you don’t need. &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>In this day of using cell phones and computers for conducting business online, people tend to check their postal mailboxes less frequently than they used to, Kiss said. That’s a mistake for a couple of reasons – it may delay notification about a problem with your credit; and in extreme cases, if the box is full, the postal service will stop delivering to it.&nbsp;“If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of recovering from someone’s attempt to use your identity to make a fraudulent unemployment claim or any financial fraud, keep a record of what you’ve done to rectify the situation, when you’ve done it and who you’ve spoken with,” Kiss said. &nbsp;She recommends following steps outlined by the Federal Trade Commission on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.identitytheft.gov/">www.IdentityTheft.gov</a>if you’ve been a victim of identity theft of any kind, starting with contacting companies where you know the fraud occurred. &nbsp;In response to the increase in fraudulent claims in Kansas, KDOL created the<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ks.gov/">www.ReportFraud.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;website so individuals and businesses can report suspected cases of identity theft related to an unemployment claim. Once a claim is reported on the site, the system generates a police report number and tips for victims to use to help mitigate the damage from the theft. The agency’s fraud team can then prevent the fraudulent claims from being paid. &nbsp;Just like monitoring your physical health, it’s important to stay vigilant in monitoring your financial health, Kiss said.&nbsp;

K-state specialist: Avoiding fraudulent unemployment claims

Covid is surging across Kansas. Over 1,200 Kansans have died. Hospitals are strained. Some Americans are experiencing second infections, threatening the herd immunity dream.

Many of us are just surviving. Knowing Covid is serious. Often wearing masks when out, whether government says to or not. Wanting schools open. Maybe attending church. Trying to see friends. But knowing the risks.

Many of us live in hopelessly divided realities. For some, Covid is an emergency and masks are required. For others, Covid is exaggerated, and masks are avoided and perhaps offensive.

Many of us fight over masks as a political symbol, pretending that government can actually force one on you. It can’t. We fight anyway.

Governor Laura Kelly issued a mask mandate in July. The Republican legislature overruled her. Power then fell on county governments, and most rejected mask requirements.

Politics elsewhere hasn’t always played out similarly.

Conservative Republican governors in Wyoming, Utah, Alabama, Ohio, and West Virginia have mandated masks, sometimes with fines.

In Georgia, Texas, and Florida, conservatives have centralized power in state government to block local control and keep counties from passing or enforcing local mask ordinances.

But generally, many of us are fighting over the idea that government can somehow make people wear masks.

One side says mask mandates are good, and can reduce infections if everyone complies.

Mandate supporters often overestimate enforcement and willingness to comply. In communities with mask mandates, police, health departments, businesses, and sometimes even schools don’t enforce them. Enforcement is often mythical.

One side says mask mandates are bad. This side is divided, however, between those who believe that masks should just be optional and those who are actually anti-mask.

Mandate opponents exaggerate the power of government to force compliance. As if Governor Kelly will ticket you herself for going maskless and tape one on your face. As if real enforcement exists.

Both stories are oversimplified talking points.

First, a statewide mask mandate isn’t realistically happening in Kansas. The debate is politically moot.

Second, short of vaccines or better treatments, stopping Covid is on us as citizens. Sure, government can factor into that—school and bar closures, testing availability, encouraging masks.

But government isn’t going to put a mask on you. Realistically, government isn’t going to punish you for going maskless. Government isn’t going to stop you from partying, eating out, or attending church.

Government cannot control you, despite scary arguments from politicians or paid political operatives. No matter what government says in any “mandate,” wearing a mask is your choice. Choosing businesses based on their mask enforcement is your choice. Your health is your choice. It always was.

The mandate isn’t the point. Your choices are the point.

Of course, that freedom means that we will continue to live in our separate, alienated realities.

Kansans who religiously wear masks and avoid businesses that don’t require them are free to continue. Mask opponents can’t control them.

Kansans who avoid masks and businesses that require them are free to continue. Mask supporters can’t control them.

Kansans who are just trying to survive this mess while politics fights over symbolism—you get to keep it up. Hopefully avoiding Covid. Hopefully not seeing masks as political statements. Hopefully rising above distorted political fantasies. Hopefully finding social support to thrive and be healthy, even if you’re ultimately on your own to protect yourself.

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593101597372.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>Covid is surging across Kansas. Over 1,200 Kansans have died. Hospitals are strained. Some Americans are experiencing second infections, threatening the herd immunity dream.Many of us are just surviving. Knowing Covid is serious. Often wearing masks when out, whether government says to or not. Wanting schools open. Maybe attending church. Trying to see friends. But knowing the risks.Many of us live in hopelessly divided realities. For some, Covid is an emergency and masks are required. For others, Covid is exaggerated, and masks are avoided and perhaps offensive.Many of us fight over masks as a political symbol, pretending that government can actually force one on you. It can’t. We fight anyway.Governor Laura Kelly issued a mask mandate in July. The Republican legislature overruled her. Power then fell on county governments, and most rejected mask requirements.Politics elsewhere hasn’t always played out similarly.Conservative Republican governors in Wyoming, Utah, Alabama, Ohio, and West Virginia have mandated masks, sometimes with fines.In Georgia, Texas, and Florida, conservatives have centralized power in state government to block local control and keep counties from passing or enforcing local mask ordinances.But generally, many of us are fighting over the idea that government can somehow make people wear masks.One side says mask mandates are good, and can reduce infections if everyone complies.Mandate supporters often overestimate enforcement and willingness to comply. In communities with mask mandates, police, health departments, businesses, and sometimes even schools don’t enforce them. Enforcement is often mythical.One side says mask mandates are bad. This side is divided, however, between those who believe that masks should just be optional and those who are actually anti-mask.Mandate opponents exaggerate the power of government to force compliance. As if Governor Kelly will ticket you herself for going maskless and tape one on your face. As if real enforcement exists.Both stories are oversimplified talking points.First, a statewide mask mandate isn’t realistically happening in Kansas. The debate is politically moot.Second, short of vaccines or better treatments, stopping Covid is on us as citizens. Sure, government can factor into that—school and bar closures, testing availability, encouraging masks.But government isn’t going to put a mask on you. Realistically, government isn’t going to punish you for going maskless. Government isn’t going to stop you from partying, eating out, or attending church.Government cannot control you, despite scary arguments from politicians or paid political operatives. No matter what government says in any “mandate,” wearing a mask is your choice. Choosing businesses based on their mask enforcement is your choice. Your health is your choice. It always was.The mandate isn’t the point. Your choices are the point.Of course, that freedom means that we will continue to live in our separate, alienated realities.Kansans who religiously wear masks and avoid businesses that don’t require them are free to continue. Mask opponents can’t control them.Kansans who avoid masks and businesses that require them are free to continue. Mask supporters can’t control them.Kansans who are just trying to survive this mess while politics fights over symbolism—you get to keep it up. Hopefully avoiding Covid. Hopefully not seeing masks as political statements. Hopefully rising above distorted political fantasies. Hopefully finding social support to thrive and be healthy, even if you’re ultimately on your own to protect yourself.Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Symbolic political fights over masks miss the point

The city of Hays Water Resources Department has contracted with Pipe Detectives to conduct sewer line cleaning and inspections at the locations shown on the map below.

Cleaning will begin Thursday. Pipe Detectives should be completed with the entire project by Monday, Dec. 28. 

Door hanger notices will be placed on homes and businesses affected prior to cleaning. 

Work will begin at the north end of the project area and proceed south until completed.

During this process, residents may experience a rumbling sound, in addition to the possibility of water entering your sink, bathtub and/or toilet. If you will not be home or on vacation during the time of sewer line cleaning, please protect your home by keeping your toilet lids down. 

Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Pipe Detective's project manager at 218-770-8286 or the Water Resources Dept. at 785-628-7380.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe city of Hays Water Resources Department has contracted with Pipe Detectives to conduct sewer line cleaning and inspections at the locations shown on the map below.Cleaning will begin Thursday. Pipe Detectives should be completed with the entire project by Monday, Dec. 28. Door hanger notices will be placed on homes and businesses affected prior to cleaning. Work will begin at the north end of the project area and proceed south until completed.During this process, residents may experience a rumbling sound, in addition to the possibility of water entering your sink, bathtub and/or toilet. If you will not be home or on vacation during the time of sewer line cleaning, please protect your home by keeping your toilet lids down. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Pipe Detective's project manager at 218-770-8286 or the Water Resources Dept. at 785-628-7380.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605035890388.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Sewer line inspection, cleaning begins Thursday in Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 was awarded a Bronze Inspiring Change Aetna Well-Being Award for the efforts of its Wellness Committee during the last year.

The district created a Wellness Committee in 2018 when the district moved from Blue Cross Blue Shield to Aetna as its insurance carrier.

Aetna provided the committee $20,000 in 2018 and 2019 to promote wellness among its employees. The district was awarded an additional $15,000 this school year because of COVID-19.

Some of the Wellness Committee's sponsored activities have included biometric screenings, flu shot clinics, monthly wellness challenges, healthy cooking classes, a wellness speaker, CPR certification classes and free 10-minute massages in cooperation with the FHSU massage program in fall 2019.

The committee also used its funds to offer free drop-in passes to the Hays Recreation Center and Hays Aquatic Park passes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605114481987.png" alt="USD 489 HR coordinator Faith Lochmann, left, receives the&nbsp;Bronze Inspiring Change Aetna Well-Being Award for the efforts of the district's Wellness Committee&nbsp;during the last year." />
 <figcaption>USD 489 HR coordinator Faith Lochmann, left, receives the&nbsp;Bronze Inspiring Change Aetna Well-Being Award for the efforts of the district's Wellness Committee&nbsp;during the last year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 was awarded a Bronze Inspiring Change Aetna Well-Being Award for the efforts of its Wellness Committee during the last year.The district created a Wellness Committee in 2018 when the district moved from Blue Cross Blue Shield to Aetna as its insurance carrier.Aetna provided the committee $20,000 in 2018 and 2019 to promote wellness among its employees. The district was awarded an additional $15,000 this school year because of COVID-19.Some of the Wellness Committee's sponsored activities have included biometric screenings, flu shot clinics, monthly wellness challenges, healthy cooking classes, a wellness speaker, CPR certification classes and free 10-minute massages in cooperation with the FHSU massage program in fall 2019.The committee also used its funds to offer free drop-in passes to the Hays Recreation Center and Hays Aquatic Park passes.&nbsp;

Hays USD 489 receives wellness award

By LISA HERMAN <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nortontelegram">Norton Telegram</a>

NORTON — After learning of the tragic COVID-19 outbreak at the local Andbe Home facility, a Kansas veteran with ties to our community felt called to offer help and recently did so in a tremendously impactful way. 

Last Wednesday, November 4, Travis Hansen, owner of the Topeka-based Bio-One franchise, and two members of his team made the 10-hour round trip to Norton to disinfect and sanitize the Andbe Home facility completely free of charge. Named by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the best Crime and Trauma Scene Clean Up franchises in the nation, Bio-One specializes in disinfection, sanitation, and decontamination. 

For Travis, offering the services to our local nursing home at absolutely no cost — a nearly $20,000 value given the mileage and time it took to disinfect and sanitize — was a way of giving back to the Andbe Home and extending to them his appreciation for the compassionate care the facility had provided to his grandmother when she resided there several years ago. 

After the facility’s COVID-19 outbreak made national headlines several weeks ago, Megan Mapes, Andbe Home Administrator, began receiving an overwhelming number of calls from companies wanting to sell biohazard cleaning products and services to the facility. When

 Travis Hansen reached out to Megan to offer his services, she said it was his approach and caring tone that made a world of difference at a time when many other callers had taken a more “wheeler-dealer” and less sincere approach. “After he told me about his company and what he could provide for us in this difficult time, he said something that moved me in such a troubling time,” Megan said. Travis indicated he wished to offer his services to the Andbe Home facility free of charge. “Years ago, you took care of my grandma, Lenora, and she received wonderful care there and I want to repay you for that,” he explained. 

Last Wednesday, November 4, Hansen and two dedicated members of his team, Tim Armstrong and Barry Blassingame, departed from Topeka and made their way across the state to reach the Andbe Home facility and begin the process of biohazard remediation. Donning hazmat suits and other protective personal equipment, Travis, Tim, and Barry deep cleaned every square inch of all the facility’s common areas, utilizing fogger machines to put out a fine mist of disinfectant, penetrate hard to clean areas, and effectively eliminate surface-based and airborne pathogens.

For Travis, hearing the news about the Andbe Home’s COVID-19 outbreak was heartbreaking. His grandmother, Lenora Hansen, resided at the Andbe Home for many years until she passed away in 2018. “They [the Andbe Home staff] took very good care of Grandma, making the last few years of her life as comfortable as possible,” he explained to the Telegram’s writer.

Travis grew up in Hays and now lives north of Topeka. He is the nephew of Earl and Barb Hansen, of Norton. His father, Lee, grew up in Lenora but now resides in Hays. Travis has two children, Caden and Cierra. He spent 13 years serving our country in the United States Army Reserve and the Air National Guard. For over two decades, he has worked in the traffic safety industry, dedicated to making our roadways safer. It had been a lifelong goal of his to own his own business so he could continue to help other people.

 He has now owned Bio-One, the most trusted and referred clean up company in Topeka and the surrounding areas, for three years. He also owns Bobcats Bar and Grill, which is located on the north side of Perry Lake in Jefferson County, Kansas.

Bio-One specializes in all types of extreme cleaning and provides a variety of services, including: Blood Spill Cleanup; Crime Scene Cleanup; Decomposition / Undiscovered Death Cleanup; Emergency Vehicle Decontamination; Feces / Urine Cleanup; Hoarding Cleanup; Medical Waste Disposal; Mold Remediation; Odor Removal; Rodent Dropping Cleanup; Sewage Backups; Suicide Cleanup; and Teargas Cleanup. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a surge of business and state contracts for Bio-One as the need for disinfection, sanitation, and decontamination services has grown exponentially.

The motto of Bio-One has always been, “Help First, Business Second!” “It was important to us that we did our part to help keep the remaining residents and staff safe,” Travis stated in regards to the decision made to travel to the Andbe Home and offer help. “I’m sure Grandma would have been proud of the Bio-One team!”

What the Bio-One team did for our community is absolutely incredible! Megan said it brought tears to her eyes that someone would donate their time, mileage, and services. “It was a very caring and thoughtful gesture. We appreciate the timeliness and good services that Bio-One provided for our home,” she added.

“I am so moved by all the caring things that have happened since our outbreak,” Megan further stated. After news of the COVID-19 outbreak made headlines, Megan said people in town began to call to see if they could come into the facility to help work; the facility, however, could not allow this given the circumstances. Over the past couple weeks, community members have donated items to the facility such as trash cans and organizational carts, and many people have brought snacks and drinks for the staff and residents.

 The facility even received a “comfort kit” from a business in Hawaii and it was full of different tropical shortbread cookies and macadamia nuts. 

“We received letters from families, past family members of residents, church groups, other nursing homes and hospitals, and so much support and so many prayers. It was wonderful to see in this dark time and the facility and myself are so appreciative of the love and support of the community and businesses.” 

The Andbe Home’s new management is continuing to work to restore compliance and continued licensure for the facility and Mapes will provide the Telegram with any new information she has to share with the community. Meanwhile, many prayers are still needed for the staff, the residents and their families, and the family members who are reeling from the loss of their loved one as a result of the heartbreaking COVID-19 outbreak at our local nursing home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605131069935.jpeg" alt="Bio-One owner, Travis Hansen, and two dedicated members of his team, Tim Armstrong and Barry Blassingame, made the 10-hour round trip to Norton to disinfect and sanitize the Andbe Home facility completely free of charge. The team, pictured here, used fogger machines to effectively deep clean every square inch of all the facility’s common areas and eliminate surface-based and airborne pathogens. Telegram Photo by Scott Sansom" />
 <figcaption>Bio-One owner, Travis Hansen, and two dedicated members of his team, Tim Armstrong and Barry Blassingame, made the 10-hour round trip to Norton to disinfect and sanitize the Andbe Home facility completely free of charge. The team, pictured here, used fogger machines to effectively deep clean every square inch of all the facility’s common areas and eliminate surface-based and airborne pathogens. Telegram Photo by Scott Sansom</figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA HERMAN <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nortontelegram">Norton Telegram</a>NORTON — After learning of the tragic COVID-19 outbreak at the local Andbe Home facility, a Kansas veteran with ties to our community felt called to offer help and recently did so in a tremendously impactful way. Last Wednesday, November 4, Travis Hansen, owner of the Topeka-based Bio-One franchise, and two members of his team made the 10-hour round trip to Norton to disinfect and sanitize the Andbe Home facility completely free of charge. Named by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the best Crime and Trauma Scene Clean Up franchises in the nation, Bio-One specializes in disinfection, sanitation, and decontamination. For Travis, offering the services to our local nursing home at absolutely no cost — a nearly $20,000 value given the mileage and time it took to disinfect and sanitize — was a way of giving back to the Andbe Home and extending to them his appreciation for the compassionate care the facility had provided to his grandmother when she resided there several years ago. After the facility’s COVID-19 outbreak made national headlines several weeks ago, Megan Mapes, Andbe Home Administrator, began receiving an overwhelming number of calls from companies wanting to sell biohazard cleaning products and services to the facility. When Travis Hansen reached out to Megan to offer his services, she said it was his approach and caring tone that made a world of difference at a time when many other callers had taken a more “wheeler-dealer” and less sincere approach. “After he told me about his company and what he could provide for us in this difficult time, he said something that moved me in such a troubling time,” Megan said. Travis indicated he wished to offer his services to the Andbe Home facility free of charge. “Years ago, you took care of my grandma, Lenora, and she received wonderful care there and I want to repay you for that,” he explained. Last Wednesday, November 4, Hansen and two dedicated members of his team, Tim Armstrong and Barry Blassingame, departed from Topeka and made their way across the state to reach the Andbe Home facility and begin the process of biohazard remediation. Donning hazmat suits and other protective personal equipment, Travis, Tim, and Barry deep cleaned every square inch of all the facility’s common areas, utilizing fogger machines to put out a fine mist of disinfectant, penetrate hard to clean areas, and effectively eliminate surface-based and airborne pathogens.For Travis, hearing the news about the Andbe Home’s COVID-19 outbreak was heartbreaking. His grandmother, Lenora Hansen, resided at the Andbe Home for many years until she passed away in 2018. “They [the Andbe Home staff] took very good care of Grandma, making the last few years of her life as comfortable as possible,” he explained to the Telegram’s writer.Travis grew up in Hays and now lives north of Topeka. He is the nephew of Earl and Barb Hansen, of Norton. His father, Lee, grew up in Lenora but now resides in Hays. Travis has two children, Caden and Cierra. He spent 13 years serving our country in the United States Army Reserve and the Air National Guard. For over two decades, he has worked in the traffic safety industry, dedicated to making our roadways safer. It had been a lifelong goal of his to own his own business so he could continue to help other people. He has now owned Bio-One, the most trusted and referred clean up company in Topeka and the surrounding areas, for three years. He also owns Bobcats Bar and Grill, which is located on the north side of Perry Lake in Jefferson County, Kansas.Bio-One specializes in all types of extreme cleaning and provides a variety of services, including: Blood Spill Cleanup; Crime Scene Cleanup; Decomposition / Undiscovered Death Cleanup; Emergency Vehicle Decontamination; Feces / Urine Cleanup; Hoarding Cleanup; Medical Waste Disposal; Mold Remediation; Odor Removal; Rodent Dropping Cleanup; Sewage Backups; Suicide Cleanup; and Teargas Cleanup. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a surge of business and state contracts for Bio-One as the need for disinfection, sanitation, and decontamination services has grown exponentially.The motto of Bio-One has always been, “Help First, Business Second!” “It was important to us that we did our part to help keep the remaining residents and staff safe,” Travis stated in regards to the decision made to travel to the Andbe Home and offer help. “I’m sure Grandma would have been proud of the Bio-One team!”What the Bio-One team did for our community is absolutely incredible! Megan said it brought tears to her eyes that someone would donate their time, mileage, and services. “It was a very caring and thoughtful gesture. We appreciate the timeliness and good services that Bio-One provided for our home,” she added.<h2>An Outpouring of Support</h2>“I am so moved by all the caring things that have happened since our outbreak,” Megan further stated. After news of the COVID-19 outbreak made headlines, Megan said people in town began to call to see if they could come into the facility to help work; the facility, however, could not allow this given the circumstances. Over the past couple weeks, community members have donated items to the facility such as trash cans and organizational carts, and many people have brought snacks and drinks for the staff and residents. The facility even received a “comfort kit” from a business in Hawaii and it was full of different tropical shortbread cookies and macadamia nuts. “We received letters from families, past family members of residents, church groups, other nursing homes and hospitals, and so much support and so many prayers. It was wonderful to see in this dark time and the facility and myself are so appreciative of the love and support of the community and businesses.” The Andbe Home’s new management is continuing to work to restore compliance and continued licensure for the facility and Mapes will provide the Telegram with any new information she has to share with the community. Meanwhile, many prayers are still needed for the staff, the residents and their families, and the family members who are reeling from the loss of their loved one as a result of the heartbreaking COVID-19 outbreak at our local nursing home.Republished with permission

Veteran-owned company pays it forward to help Andbe Home

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Bingo! That’s a fun game that many people love to play. Today, we’ll meet a creative community foundation that used bingo and other projects to support its community during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Tara Vance is executive director of the Norton County Community Foundation. A Stockton native and Fort Hays State grad, she became director of the Norton Chamber of Commerce. In 2012, she was asked to serve as part-time director of the community foundation as well.&nbsp;

The more she learned about the importance of local philanthropy, the more committed she became to the community foundation. “I’ve developed a passion for it,” she said.&nbsp;

Scott Sproul, director of the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc., was Norton County economic development director at the time. “He was a great mentor to me,” Tara said. “We saw that the private donor world would be essential (for our community) if tax dollars aren’t there someday.”&nbsp;

Today, Tara is the full-time director of the Norton County Community Foundation which has grown to $2 million in assets. The Dane G. Hansen Foundation in Logan has been strong partner of Norton and other community foundations in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;

One major asset is the Heaton Building in downtown Norton. This historic, remodeled building is owned by the community foundation and houses 16 different tenants.&nbsp;

Another key foundation project is called Secure Sebelius Lake. This lake provides water recreation opportunities but was at risk from drawdown. The community foundation raised funds to match the state’s spending to compensate irrigators for maintaining a certain water level in the lake. “This arrangement has been good for the community, good for the irrigators, and good for the state,” Tara said.&nbsp;

The Norton County Community Foundation annually offers various scholarships and grants for local projects.&nbsp;

Then the pandemic hit. Shutdown orders occurred. Tara looked for a positive community activity and found a business in another county that was doing a bingo game. She decided to adapt the idea for Norton County. “One of our donors sent in $10,000 and said, ‘Do something good with it,’” Tara said.&nbsp;

With help from a graphic designer at Nex-Tech, the rural broadband company, they developed an online game called NorCoBingo to support Norton County businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Nex-Tech is an amazing community partner,” Tara said. They designed a bingo card with various activities that could be done in the county.&nbsp;

These included a range of things from “Plant Flowers or Vegetables” and “Buy a Gift Card from a Business closed to the Public” to “Take a Selfie in Front of Your Favorite Building” and “Make Cards for Nursing Home Residents.”&nbsp;

Other options included “Drive Around Town and Wave at 3 People,” “Perform a Random Act of Kindness,” “Use an Online Service at Norton Public Library,” and “Send a Card or Note to an Essential Worker.”&nbsp;

Outdoor activities in the county were another option, such as “Go Fishing at Prairie Dog State Park” and “Go Explore Lenora Lake,” which is near the rural community of Lenora, population 250 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

People were encouraged to fill out the bingo cards and turn them in, complete with pictures of them doing the activities. A daily drawing was held among those who submitted completed bingo cards. Three winners each day got gift certificates of $100 in chamber bucks. This project got people involved in doing good deeds as well as enjoying elements of the community.&nbsp;

In the end, more than 135 bingo submissions were received and more than $9,000 was spent at 26 businesses in Norton. When Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas made a statewide request for examples of positive responses to the pandemic, the Norton County Community Foundation was awarded another $10,000.&nbsp;

For more information on the foundation, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/">www.nortonccf.org</a>.&nbsp;

When a former Commerce Deputy Secretary was told of the varied activities in which the Norton County Community Foundation was involved, she was surprised. “But you’re making a difference,” she said.&nbsp;

So where, across the state of Kansas, could I find a community foundation which is doing exceptionally creative things for its community? I look at Norton County and I say, “Bingo!”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605103419261.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Bingo! That’s a fun game that many people love to play. Today, we’ll meet a creative community foundation that used bingo and other projects to support its community during the pandemic.&nbsp;Tara Vance is executive director of the Norton County Community Foundation. A Stockton native and Fort Hays State grad, she became director of the Norton Chamber of Commerce. In 2012, she was asked to serve as part-time director of the community foundation as well.&nbsp;The more she learned about the importance of local philanthropy, the more committed she became to the community foundation. “I’ve developed a passion for it,” she said.&nbsp;Scott Sproul, director of the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc., was Norton County economic development director at the time. “He was a great mentor to me,” Tara said. “We saw that the private donor world would be essential (for our community) if tax dollars aren’t there someday.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605107143728.png" alt="Tara Vance / Norton County Community Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Tara Vance / Norton County Community Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>Today, Tara is the full-time director of the Norton County Community Foundation which has grown to $2 million in assets. The Dane G. Hansen Foundation in Logan has been strong partner of Norton and other community foundations in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;One major asset is the Heaton Building in downtown Norton. This historic, remodeled building is owned by the community foundation and houses 16 different tenants.&nbsp;Another key foundation project is called Secure Sebelius Lake. This lake provides water recreation opportunities but was at risk from drawdown. The community foundation raised funds to match the state’s spending to compensate irrigators for maintaining a certain water level in the lake. “This arrangement has been good for the community, good for the irrigators, and good for the state,” Tara said.&nbsp;The Norton County Community Foundation annually offers various scholarships and grants for local projects.&nbsp;Then the pandemic hit. Shutdown orders occurred. Tara looked for a positive community activity and found a business in another county that was doing a bingo game. She decided to adapt the idea for Norton County. “One of our donors sent in $10,000 and said, ‘Do something good with it,’” Tara said.&nbsp;With help from a graphic designer at Nex-Tech, the rural broadband company, they developed an online game called NorCoBingo to support Norton County businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Nex-Tech is an amazing community partner,” Tara said. They designed a bingo card with various activities that could be done in the county.&nbsp;These included a range of things from “Plant Flowers or Vegetables” and “Buy a Gift Card from a Business closed to the Public” to “Take a Selfie in Front of Your Favorite Building” and “Make Cards for Nursing Home Residents.”&nbsp;Other options included “Drive Around Town and Wave at 3 People,” “Perform a Random Act of Kindness,” “Use an Online Service at Norton Public Library,” and “Send a Card or Note to an Essential Worker.”&nbsp;Outdoor activities in the county were another option, such as “Go Fishing at Prairie Dog State Park” and “Go Explore Lenora Lake,” which is near the rural community of Lenora, population 250 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;People were encouraged to fill out the bingo cards and turn them in, complete with pictures of them doing the activities. A daily drawing was held among those who submitted completed bingo cards. Three winners each day got gift certificates of $100 in chamber bucks. This project got people involved in doing good deeds as well as enjoying elements of the community.&nbsp;In the end, more than 135 bingo submissions were received and more than $9,000 was spent at 26 businesses in Norton. When Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas made a statewide request for examples of positive responses to the pandemic, the Norton County Community Foundation was awarded another $10,000.&nbsp;For more information on the foundation, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/">www.nortonccf.org</a>.&nbsp;When a former Commerce Deputy Secretary was told of the varied activities in which the Norton County Community Foundation was involved, she was surprised. “But you’re making a difference,” she said.&nbsp;So where, across the state of Kansas, could I find a community foundation which is doing exceptionally creative things for its community? I look at Norton County and I say, “Bingo!”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Tara Vance, Norton County Community Foundation

Three-day weather outlook

This is the second year in a row where portions of Kansas suffered a quick drop in temperature after a warm fall. &nbsp;Unfortunately, some trees were not hardened off before this happened. Some trees will very likely be affected by this sharp drop in temperature. &nbsp;The first sign that a tree has been affected is marcescence in which trees that normally drop their leaves in the fall, don’t. &nbsp;Leaves don’t drop because they didn’t have enough time to develop an abscission layer at the base of each leaf that allowed it to fall. Though marcescence itself does not harm the tree, it is a clue that further damage may have occurred. &nbsp;Notice I said “may.” &nbsp;Trees that exhibit marcescence may be perfectly fine. Also, portions of the state that did not suffer this extreme drop in temperature should be good. &nbsp; It is possible that trees that show evidence of marcescence, may also have suffered damage to the living tissue under the bark. The sharp drop in temperature may damage at least a portion of the phloem and the cambium. Remember the phloem carries food made in the leaves to all parts of the plants including the roots. The cambium produces new phloem. &nbsp;If the phloem and cambium are killed, the cambium cannot produce new, living phloem, and, therefore, the roots don’t receive the food needed to survive and eventually starve to death. Trees so affected will not die immediately. &nbsp;First, a healthy root system has stored energy reserves that it can use to keep the tree alive. When those reserves are depleted, the tree will die very quickly. &nbsp;Usually, this occurs during the summer following the year the damage occurred. However, there is more to the story. &nbsp;Doesn’t a tree also need water? Since the living portion of the trunk was killed, wouldn’t this stop water flow? It would not. &nbsp;Xylem is the structure in the tree that carries water from the soil throughout the plant. &nbsp;

The reason the tree can still distribute water to the top portion of the tree is due to how a tree grows and, specifically, how xylem works. &nbsp;Even in perfectly healthy trees, most of the xylem is dead. Portions of this dead xylem form hollow tubes that carry most of the water and nutrients throughout the plant. Though there are living xylem cells, the contents of those cells make them inefficient in moving water. Therefore, the functional portion of the xylem wasn’t hurt by the freeze because it was already dead. Since this xylem system still works and provides water for the tree, the tree can live for quite a period until the roots starve. Remember, as stated before, trees with marcescence may be fine. &nbsp;Even if there was also damage to tree tissues, it all depends on how much of the living tissue under the bark was killed. If only a small portion is killed, then the tree may recover. If the entire circumference is killed, the tree is done for and there isn’t anything you can do to save it. Any portion of the trunk where the bark comes off and the underlying layer is brown is dead.​So, is there anything we can do now to help the trees? &nbsp;Since we don’t know the extent of the damage, if any, we need to ensure there is no further stress. &nbsp;Primarily, that means to water the tree as needed. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until freezing temperatures are here to stay. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>This is the second year in a row where portions of Kansas suffered a quick drop in temperature after a warm fall. &nbsp;Unfortunately, some trees were not hardened off before this happened. Some trees will very likely be affected by this sharp drop in temperature. &nbsp;The first sign that a tree has been affected is marcescence in which trees that normally drop their leaves in the fall, don’t. &nbsp;Leaves don’t drop because they didn’t have enough time to develop an abscission layer at the base of each leaf that allowed it to fall. Though marcescence itself does not harm the tree, it is a clue that further damage may have occurred. &nbsp;Notice I said “may.” &nbsp;Trees that exhibit marcescence may be perfectly fine. Also, portions of the state that did not suffer this extreme drop in temperature should be good. &nbsp; It is possible that trees that show evidence of marcescence, may also have suffered damage to the living tissue under the bark. The sharp drop in temperature may damage at least a portion of the phloem and the cambium. Remember the phloem carries food made in the leaves to all parts of the plants including the roots. The cambium produces new phloem. &nbsp;If the phloem and cambium are killed, the cambium cannot produce new, living phloem, and, therefore, the roots don’t receive the food needed to survive and eventually starve to death. Trees so affected will not die immediately. &nbsp;First, a healthy root system has stored energy reserves that it can use to keep the tree alive. When those reserves are depleted, the tree will die very quickly. &nbsp;Usually, this occurs during the summer following the year the damage occurred. However, there is more to the story. &nbsp;Doesn’t a tree also need water? Since the living portion of the trunk was killed, wouldn’t this stop water flow? It would not. &nbsp;Xylem is the structure in the tree that carries water from the soil throughout the plant. &nbsp;The reason the tree can still distribute water to the top portion of the tree is due to how a tree grows and, specifically, how xylem works. &nbsp;Even in perfectly healthy trees, most of the xylem is dead. Portions of this dead xylem form hollow tubes that carry most of the water and nutrients throughout the plant. Though there are living xylem cells, the contents of those cells make them inefficient in moving water. Therefore, the functional portion of the xylem wasn’t hurt by the freeze because it was already dead. Since this xylem system still works and provides water for the tree, the tree can live for quite a period until the roots starve. Remember, as stated before, trees with marcescence may be fine. &nbsp;Even if there was also damage to tree tissues, it all depends on how much of the living tissue under the bark was killed. If only a small portion is killed, then the tree may recover. If the entire circumference is killed, the tree is done for and there isn’t anything you can do to save it. Any portion of the trunk where the bark comes off and the underlying layer is brown is dead.​So, is there anything we can do now to help the trees? &nbsp;Since we don’t know the extent of the damage, if any, we need to ensure there is no further stress. &nbsp;Primarily, that means to water the tree as needed. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until freezing temperatures are here to stay. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.

FICK: Sharp temperature drop a cause for concern for trees

Corrected, 10 p.m. Wednesday to clarify headline. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days jumped from 19 on Monday to 25 on Wednesday.

On Oct. 2, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days. The per-day average in Ellis County has not dropped to that level since the metric began to be reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/095697ac-eb4b-4005-867a-bb049ec8c10f">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays commissioners vote to extend mask ordinance</a>

There were 102 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday. There are currently 288 active cases, including eight active hospitalizations, and 1,430 recovered cases.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests spiked to 40.3 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 1,736 cases of coronavirus reported in Ellis County, including 18 deaths.

Of the total 11,323 tests administered, 14.4 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/2020/11/1605118840732.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Corrected, 10 p.m. Wednesday to clarify headline. Hays Post apologizes for the error.The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days jumped from 19 on Monday to 25 on Wednesday.On Oct. 2, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days. The per-day average in Ellis County has not dropped to that level since the metric began to be reported.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/095697ac-eb4b-4005-867a-bb049ec8c10f">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays commissioners vote to extend mask ordinance</a>There were 102 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday. There are currently 288 active cases, including eight active hospitalizations, and 1,430 recovered cases.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests spiked to 40.3 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 1,736 cases of coronavirus reported in Ellis County, including 18 deaths.Of the total 11,323 tests administered, 14.4 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/2020/11/1605121227208.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/AClvlGge52U"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

Over 100 new virus cases in Ellis Co. since Monday; per-day average jumps

By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County Review

PHILLIPSBURG — We recently provided a report on the heroic actions of Phillips County Deputy Sheriff John Miner.          

     Miner was providing roadside assistance to seven stranded motorists traveling in two pickups in northwestern Phillips County on Nov. 4 when a semi collided into the vehicles.

     Diesel spewing from ruptured fuel tanks ignited, resulting in a massive fire.  Two toddlers, ages 2 and 4, were trapped in their carseats in one of the trucks.  With bystanders hollering at him that he was on fire, Deputy Miner disregarded his own personal situation and at great peril of exploding gas tanks, ran into the carnage, cut one child out of her seat and carried her to safety, then returned, cut the other child loose, and carried him to safety.     

     Within seconds, that same vehicle was totally engulfed in a massive wall of flames and began being racked by explosions.

     Deputy Miner and the children were transported to Phillips County Hospital, where the children checked out fine, and, with no physical injuries, were released to their parents.     

     However, Miner had suffered serious third-degree burns on his legs.  After being transported to Via Christi Burn Center in Wichita, Miner underwent surgery for his injuries last Thursday.     

     Miner was released and returned home to Phillipsburg on Monday, where he is now recovering.     

     Phillips County Sheriff Charlie Radabaugh has cited Deputy Miner for extreme heroism, and has passed that citation on to the Kansas Sheriff’s Association for further recognition.     

     Said Sheriff Radabaugh, “Had John not been there those children would have been incinerated.  It’s that simple, they wouldn’t have got out of the vehicle.  The pickup was engulfed in flames less than a minute after he got them out.  We’re amazed that this situation turned out the way it did.  There are two children who are alive and well today because of Deputy Miner.”     

     As for Miner, upon his return to Phillipsburg he released a statement which we pass on to our readers below.

I'd like to take a minute to thank everyone for the thoughts and prayers over the last week.      

     I'm back at home and have a follow up appointment with the surgeon. They had to do skin grafts to fix my leg. Its obvious at this point its gonna take a while longer to heal than I was expecting. At first, I thought a week or maybe two but reality is setting in and it may take a bit longer. I can't wait to get cleared by the doctor so I can get back to work and pull my own weight again.       

     I'm thankful for the outcome of this event and the children didn't get hurt. Thanks Mikell Cummings for staying by my side through the hospital stay to help me stay positive and keep a smile on my face. I tried to get her to stay behind and go to Wichita alone but she wouldn't allow that and I'm grateful for the support.       

     I'll catch you all on the flip side. Keep your chin up and enjoy what there is to be thankful for while you can!

John Miner Phillipsburg, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594071502884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County ReviewPHILLIPSBURG — We recently provided a report on the heroic actions of Phillips County Deputy Sheriff John Miner. Miner was providing roadside assistance to seven stranded motorists traveling in two pickups in northwestern Phillips County on Nov. 4 when a semi collided into the vehicles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605120764575.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure> Diesel spewing from ruptured fuel tanks ignited, resulting in a massive fire. Two toddlers, ages 2 and 4, were trapped in their carseats in one of the trucks. With bystanders hollering at him that he was on fire, Deputy Miner disregarded his own personal situation and at great peril of exploding gas tanks, ran into the carnage, cut one child out of her seat and carried her to safety, then returned, cut the other child loose, and carried him to safety. Within seconds, that same vehicle was totally engulfed in a massive wall of flames and began being racked by explosions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605120796661.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure> Deputy Miner and the children were transported to Phillips County Hospital, where the children checked out fine, and, with no physical injuries, were released to their parents. However, Miner had suffered serious third-degree burns on his legs. After being transported to Via Christi Burn Center in Wichita, Miner underwent surgery for his injuries last Thursday. Miner was released and returned home to Phillipsburg on Monday, where he is now recovering. Phillips County Sheriff Charlie Radabaugh has cited Deputy Miner for extreme heroism, and has passed that citation on to the Kansas Sheriff’s Association for further recognition. Said Sheriff Radabaugh, “Had John not been there those children would have been incinerated. It’s that simple, they wouldn’t have got out of the vehicle. The pickup was engulfed in flames less than a minute after he got them out. We’re amazed that this situation turned out the way it did. There are two children who are alive and well today because of Deputy Miner.” As for Miner, upon his return to Phillipsburg he released a statement which we pass on to our readers below.-------------<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605120820522.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>I'd like to take a minute to thank everyone for the thoughts and prayers over the last week. I'm back at home and have a follow up appointment with the surgeon. They had to do skin grafts to fix my leg. Its obvious at this point its gonna take a while longer to heal than I was expecting. At first, I thought a week or maybe two but reality is setting in and it may take a bit longer. I can't wait to get cleared by the doctor so I can get back to work and pull my own weight again. I'm thankful for the outcome of this event and the children didn't get hurt. Thanks Mikell Cummings for staying by my side through the hospital stay to help me stay positive and keep a smile on my face. I tried to get her to stay behind and go to Wichita alone but she wouldn't allow that and I'm grateful for the support. I'll catch you all on the flip side. Keep your chin up and enjoy what there is to be thankful for while you can! John Miner Phillipsburg, KSRepublished with permission

UPDATE: Heroic deputy injured in line of duty recovering after surgery

By U.S. Sen. PAT ROBERTS <a href="https://eisenhowermemorial.gov/commission/commissioners">Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commission</a>

As the son of Wes Roberts,
 a World War II Marine veteran who fought at Iwo Jima, and a Marine 
veteran myself, I say with certainty and pride that there is no greater 
duty than one’s duty to country and to stand with those who have put 
country before self.

On this Veterans Day, it 
is of the utmost importance to recognize and thank veterans everywhere 
for their service and defense of our nation, from threats both overseas 
and here at home.

Before the pandemic, we were set to dedicate the <a href="https://eisenhowermemorial.gov/">Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial</a>
 on May 8, the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, an anniversary
 with worldwide significance. Due to the ongoing pandemic, we <a href="https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=BBD58F05-F2DE-4F83-B82B-C259FFABB360">dedicated the memorial in September</a>.
 And now, after decades of work, the memorial dedicated to President, 
Supreme Allied Commander, and Kansas’ favorite son, Dwight. D. 
Eisenhower, is attracting generations of visitors on the National Mall.

The memorial encourages 
all visitors to learn more about the critical role Ike played in not 
only shaping our nation and defining the United States of America on the
 world stage, but also leading our country through eight years of peace 
and prosperity. Ike recognized the promise of America and the reciprocal
 responsibility of its people to serve the nation that serves them. As 
he said in his first inaugural address, “It is the firm duty of each of 
our free citizens … to place the cause of his country before the 
comfort, the convenience of himself.”

It was Eisenhower’s 
decision to launch the D-Day invasion that helped turn the tide of the 
war in Europe and save Western democracy. And while the memorial pays 
tribute to his valiant leadership, it also pays tribute to the Greatest 
Generation. Without their bravery and sacrifice during World War II, the
 world would no doubt be a very different place.

From the earliest days of 
struggle for our republic, to today’s unrest around the world, the 
principles set forth by our founding fathers have continuously been 
defended by our brave men and women in uniform.

This day is the day when a
 grateful nation recognizes those who have given so much out of love for
 their country, their family and their fellow citizens. Across Kansas 
and the nation, the memory of our service members who made the ultimate 
sacrifice for our freedoms lives on.

Throughout my <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/07/u-s-sen-pat-roberts-offers-personal-perspectives-on-half-century-of-politics/">40 years of service</a>
 in both the House and Senate, I have said many times that the No. 1 
priority of our federal government is to provide for the safety and 
security of Americans. It has been my absolute privilege to support and 
encourage those who protect us. It has also been an honor to serve as a 
Marine and to serve in Washington.

Our nation is forever 
indebted to the acts of bravery and sacrifice of the servicemen and 
women who repeatedly answer the call of duty and step forward to defend 
the freedoms we all hold dear. Each and every one of you have the thanks
 of a grateful nation.

The senior U.S. Senator from Kansas, Pat Roberts has represented Eisenhower’s home state for 40 years in the Congress. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1980 from Dodge City, and served eight terms before being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1996. Senator Roberts currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, which makes him the first member of Congress in history to have chaired both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. Roberts is also a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Ethics Committee. He previously served as Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Prior to public service, he served in the United States Marine Corps for four years. Today, he is the most senior Marine in the Congress.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605105265814.png" alt="General Dwight D. Eisenhower tells American paratroopers in England "full victory — nothing else" on the evening of June 5, 1944, as they prepare for the Battle of Normandy. (Library of Congress) " />
 <figcaption>General Dwight D. Eisenhower tells American paratroopers in England "full victory — nothing else" on the evening of June 5, 1944, as they prepare for the Battle of Normandy. (Library of Congress) </figcaption>
 </figure>By U.S. Sen. PAT ROBERTS <a href="https://eisenhowermemorial.gov/commission/commissioners">Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commission</a> As the son of Wes Roberts,
 a World War II Marine veteran who fought at Iwo Jima, and a Marine 
veteran myself, I say with certainty and pride that there is no greater 
duty than one’s duty to country and to stand with those who have put 
country before self.On this Veterans Day, it 
is of the utmost importance to recognize and thank veterans everywhere 
for their service and defense of our nation, from threats both overseas 
and here at home.Before the pandemic, we were set to dedicate the <a href="https://eisenhowermemorial.gov/">Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial</a>
 on May 8, the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, an anniversary
 with worldwide significance. Due to the ongoing pandemic, we <a href="https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=BBD58F05-F2DE-4F83-B82B-C259FFABB360">dedicated the memorial in September</a>.
 And now, after decades of work, the memorial dedicated to President, 
Supreme Allied Commander, and Kansas’ favorite son, Dwight. D. 
Eisenhower, is attracting generations of visitors on the National Mall.The memorial encourages 
all visitors to learn more about the critical role Ike played in not 
only shaping our nation and defining the United States of America on the
 world stage, but also leading our country through eight years of peace 
and prosperity. Ike recognized the promise of America and the reciprocal
 responsibility of its people to serve the nation that serves them. As 
he said in his first inaugural address, “It is the firm duty of each of 
our free citizens … to place the cause of his country before the 
comfort, the convenience of himself.”It was Eisenhower’s 
decision to launch the D-Day invasion that helped turn the tide of the 
war in Europe and save Western democracy. And while the memorial pays 
tribute to his valiant leadership, it also pays tribute to the Greatest 
Generation. Without their bravery and sacrifice during World War II, the
 world would no doubt be a very different place.From the earliest days of 
struggle for our republic, to today’s unrest around the world, the 
principles set forth by our founding fathers have continuously been 
defended by our brave men and women in uniform.This day is the day when a
 grateful nation recognizes those who have given so much out of love for
 their country, their family and their fellow citizens. Across Kansas 
and the nation, the memory of our service members who made the ultimate 
sacrifice for our freedoms lives on.Throughout my <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/07/u-s-sen-pat-roberts-offers-personal-perspectives-on-half-century-of-politics/">40 years of service</a>
 in both the House and Senate, I have said many times that the No. 1 
priority of our federal government is to provide for the safety and 
security of Americans. It has been my absolute privilege to support and 
encourage those who protect us. It has also been an honor to serve as a 
Marine and to serve in Washington.Our nation is forever 
indebted to the acts of bravery and sacrifice of the servicemen and 
women who repeatedly answer the call of duty and step forward to defend 
the freedoms we all hold dear. Each and every one of you have the thanks
 of a grateful nation.Semper Fi.The senior U.S. Senator from Kansas, Pat Roberts has represented Eisenhower’s home state for 40 years in the Congress. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1980 from Dodge City, and served eight terms before being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1996. Senator Roberts currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, which makes him the first member of Congress in history to have chaired both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. Roberts is also a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Ethics Committee. He previously served as Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Prior to public service, he served in the United States Marine Corps for four years. Today, he is the most senior Marine in the Congress.

ROBERTS: Thank you to America’s finest — our veterans

The Hilton Garden Inn &amp; Convention Center, 221 W 43rd, opened with a bang last Friday bringing a much-needed facility to the region.

Along with a convention on opening day, almost all of the hotel's 100 rooms were filled.

“We had state cross country that next day, so we had six
different teams stay with us in addition to the Kansas Sheep Symposium in the
convention center as well," said Leigh Purdy, director of sales and marketing. “It was a good opening night.”

In fact, it would have been hard to have been any busier.

“On our opening day, we sold all but six of our rooms,” she said. “We did an opening night with an event at the same time."

The center fulfills a longtime need in the region.

“There is just not quite the space for events (in Hays),”
Purdy said. “So we haven’t been able to get that stuff out here in western
Kansas, so I’m fielding all kinds of requests for the space and I’m really
excited to start bringing business here.”

“Now that word is out, it is really starting to heat up my
phone line,” she said.&nbsp;“We are filling up fast.”

She said among those interested are locals hunting for an
event space for birthdays, weddings and other family events, along with conventions
that travel around the state year to year.

She said opening a property rarely starts off with so much activity.

“Our owners have built upwards of 18 different properties
and the most they have ever had before this opening was 30 rooms for the night,” Purdy said. “It was very busy.”

Despite the unexpected opening, the first day went generally
well, she said.

The opening went well, in part due to the center finding the staff needed.

With low unemployment rates in Ellis County,&nbsp;Purdy said staffing can be a challenge, but they are generally staffed, outside a few
employees to help create a “well-padded” roster.

And the facility has all the features of a modern event center.

“We have all of the amenities,” Purdy said.

The facility has a business center, an indoor heated saltwater pool, a 24-hour fitness center and onsite laundry.

“The biggest thing that sets us apart of course is the
convention center,” she said. “That’s 7,800 square feet of space.”

She estimates for a large event like a wedding, they could accommodate
up to 400 people, with the dance floor and up to 500 people without.

That space can be split into four sections.

A board room that can accommodate eight to 10 people is located
nearby and the facility also features a bar, and on-site catering.

A full-service restaurant is also open on-site for
breakfast, lunch and dinner, with room service available.

“This is not a typical hotel breakfast,” she said. “It’s a
paid breakfast, but everything is made to order.”

“This new property offers guests convenient and inviting accommodations, whether traveling for business or leisure,” said Elinda Mages, general manager, in a recent press release. “Our team members strive to make each guest’s stay better and brighter through heartfelt interactions and thoughtful service.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d816559b-9b8e-4db0-bd9a-5bbab2bd8a9c">For more information about the facility, read the opening announcement by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605043286328.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Hilton Garden Inn &amp; Convention Center, 221 W 43rd, opened with a bang last Friday bringing a much-needed facility to the region.Along with a convention on opening day, almost all of the hotel's 100 rooms were filled.“We had state cross country that next day, so we had six
different teams stay with us in addition to the Kansas Sheep Symposium in the
convention center as well," said Leigh Purdy, director of sales and marketing. “It was a good opening night.”In fact, it would have been hard to have been any busier.“On our opening day, we sold all but six of our rooms,” she said. “We did an opening night with an event at the same time."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605043947832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The center fulfills a longtime need in the region.“There is just not quite the space for events (in Hays),”
Purdy said. “So we haven’t been able to get that stuff out here in western
Kansas, so I’m fielding all kinds of requests for the space and I’m really
excited to start bringing business here.”Already, interest is growing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605043988931.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Now that word is out, it is really starting to heat up my
phone line,” she said.&nbsp;“We are filling up fast.”She said among those interested are locals hunting for an
event space for birthdays, weddings and other family events, along with conventions
that travel around the state year to year.“We can do it all here,” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044017937.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>She said opening a property rarely starts off with so much activity.“Our owners have built upwards of 18 different properties
and the most they have ever had before this opening was 30 rooms for the night,” Purdy said. “It was very busy.”Despite the unexpected opening, the first day went generally
well, she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044103292.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The opening went well, in part due to the center finding the staff needed.With low unemployment rates in Ellis County,&nbsp;Purdy said staffing can be a challenge, but they are generally staffed, outside a few
employees to help create a “well-padded” roster.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044193048.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>And the facility has all the features of a modern event center.“We have all of the amenities,” Purdy said.The facility has a business center, an indoor heated saltwater pool, a 24-hour fitness center and onsite laundry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044314035.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044359685.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“The biggest thing that sets us apart of course is the
convention center,” she said. “That’s 7,800 square feet of space.”She estimates for a large event like a wedding, they could accommodate
up to 400 people, with the dance floor and up to 500 people without.That space can be split into four sections.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044407035.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A board room that can accommodate eight to 10 people is located
nearby and the facility also features a bar, and on-site catering.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605043243584.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A full-service restaurant is also open on-site for
breakfast, lunch and dinner, with room service available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044459238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“This is not a typical hotel breakfast,” she said. “It’s a
paid breakfast, but everything is made to order.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044438346.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“This new property offers guests convenient and inviting accommodations, whether traveling for business or leisure,” said Elinda Mages, general manager, in a recent press release. “Our team members strive to make each guest’s stay better and brighter through heartfelt interactions and thoughtful service.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044616699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044633914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d816559b-9b8e-4db0-bd9a-5bbab2bd8a9c">For more information about the facility, read the opening announcement by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044658138.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044673691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044687778.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044699328.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044718922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605044731676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605043304948.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 From day one, Hays convention center asset to city

Bobby Matter, respiratory therapist at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System, was recently named Respiratory Therapist of the Year. &nbsp; 

Respiratory Services awards an annual Breath of Fresh Air award to recognize a respiratory therapist for their hard work and dedication.

The award winner is nominated and chosen by their peers and highlights an associate in the respiratory therapy department who positively contributed the most teamwork and patient care during the year. &nbsp;

Matter has been a respiratory therapist at HaysMed since 2017.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604932253198.jpeg" alt="Bobby Matter" />
 <figcaption>Bobby Matter</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedBobby Matter, respiratory therapist at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System, was recently named Respiratory Therapist of the Year. &nbsp; Respiratory Services awards an annual Breath of Fresh Air award to recognize a respiratory therapist for their hard work and dedication.The award winner is nominated and chosen by their peers and highlights an associate in the respiratory therapy department who positively contributed the most teamwork and patient care during the year. &nbsp;Matter has been a respiratory therapist at HaysMed since 2017.

HaysMed associate earns Respiratory Therapist of the Year Award

OK, now that we’ve all grown accustomed to bad news in this glorious year 2020, this year’s upland game bird hunting forecast for Kansas appears to be a bright spot on the horizon. 

Opening day of pheasant and quail season is November 14, followed by the greater prairie chicken opener on November 21. Both seasons run through January 31, 2021. Data from the annual spring count surveys done by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) shows bird numbers for pheasants, quail and greater prairie chickens appear to be faring well, and opportunities for harvesting birds look promising. 

The complete “2020 Kansas Upland Bird Forecast” is available online at <a href="http://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Upland-Birds">www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Upland-Birds</a>. Here are some highlights from the forecast:

Jeff Prendergast, small game specialist for KDWPT says data suggests Kansas may have one of the nations best opportunities to harvest quail this season. Prendergast says “Our quail did amazing things again this year, especially in the north-central part of the state. I’ve had landowners tell me in the 40 or 50 years they’ve been farming they have never seen populations like this.” Quail numbers look promising in south-central KS too, and southwestern &amp; northeastern portions of the state saw significant population increases also. “Hunters who want to focus on quail and take pheasants as they come should be pretty happy this year, Prendergast said.”

Prendergast says in short, pheasant populations this year in Kansas were greatly affected by the summer rains, making good hunting spots more fragmented than usual. Hunters may find great numbers in one spot, then move only a couple miles and hardly find birds. Northwestern and north-central KS should have the best populations this year with numbers similar to last season, while pheasant numbers in the south-central portion of the state may be slightly down from last season.

Greater prairie chicken numbers have declined in eastern regions of the state, but populations appear to have expanded in northwestern KS, so this fall, the best prairie chicken hunting will be in the Northern High Plains and the Smokey Hill Regions where numbers have increased or remained stable and where public access is more abundant. As a reminder, prairie chicken hunters must purchase a special $2.50 Prairie Chicken Permit.

Kansas has 1.7 million acres of public access land scattered throughout the state, much of it enrolled in KDWPT’s popular Walk-In Hunting Access program, commonly known as WIHA. New this year is access to WIHA on your mobile devise using the app iWIHA, where WIHA areas can actually be reserved in advance. For more info on iWIHA and to find WIHA maps, check out the department’s website at <a href="http://www.ksoutdoors.com">www.ksoutdoors.com</a>.

Calling the year 2020 tumultuous is being kind, so I can think of no better way of leaving 2020 behind for a few hours than to get everyone out of the house and into the field to experience some of Kansas’ extensive fall hunting opportunities. 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>OK, now that we’ve all grown accustomed to bad news in this glorious year 2020, this year’s upland game bird hunting forecast for Kansas appears to be a bright spot on the horizon. Opening day of pheasant and quail season is November 14, followed by the greater prairie chicken opener on November 21. Both seasons run through January 31, 2021. Data from the annual spring count surveys done by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) shows bird numbers for pheasants, quail and greater prairie chickens appear to be faring well, and opportunities for harvesting birds look promising. The complete “2020 Kansas Upland Bird Forecast” is available online at <a href="http://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Upland-Birds">www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Upland-Birds</a>. Here are some highlights from the forecast:<h2>Quail</h2>Jeff Prendergast, small game specialist for KDWPT says data suggests Kansas may have one of the nations best opportunities to harvest quail this season. Prendergast says “Our quail did amazing things again this year, especially in the north-central part of the state. I’ve had landowners tell me in the 40 or 50 years they’ve been farming they have never seen populations like this.” Quail numbers look promising in south-central KS too, and southwestern &amp; northeastern portions of the state saw significant population increases also. “Hunters who want to focus on quail and take pheasants as they come should be pretty happy this year, Prendergast said.”<h2>Pheasants</h2>Prendergast says in short, pheasant populations this year in Kansas were greatly affected by the summer rains, making good hunting spots more fragmented than usual. Hunters may find great numbers in one spot, then move only a couple miles and hardly find birds. Northwestern and north-central KS should have the best populations this year with numbers similar to last season, while pheasant numbers in the south-central portion of the state may be slightly down from last season.<h2>Prairie Chickens</h2>Greater prairie chicken numbers have declined in eastern regions of the state, but populations appear to have expanded in northwestern KS, so this fall, the best prairie chicken hunting will be in the Northern High Plains and the Smokey Hill Regions where numbers have increased or remained stable and where public access is more abundant. As a reminder, prairie chicken hunters must purchase a special $2.50 Prairie Chicken Permit.Kansas has 1.7 million acres of public access land scattered throughout the state, much of it enrolled in KDWPT’s popular Walk-In Hunting Access program, commonly known as WIHA. New this year is access to WIHA on your mobile devise using the app iWIHA, where WIHA areas can actually be reserved in advance. For more info on iWIHA and to find WIHA maps, check out the department’s website at <a href="http://www.ksoutdoors.com">www.ksoutdoors.com</a>. Calling the year 2020 tumultuous is being kind, so I can think of no better way of leaving 2020 behind for a few hours than to get everyone out of the house and into the field to experience some of Kansas’ extensive fall hunting opportunities. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Game bird season a bright spot to 2020?

Veterans Day is today, November 11th.&nbsp; We celebrate the sacrifices that our veterans faced on behalf of our country.&nbsp; Please allow me to share the story of a veteran in my life.

December 7th is a solemn reminder of the day Pearl Harbor was bombed.&nbsp; While most of us were not yet born in 1941, stories have passed down from our parents and grandparents about the events of that day, as well as the subsequent changes in the world. But December 8th has great meaning to me, as well.

My grandmother, Thelma, had three brothers.&nbsp; One, Billy Tom Wafer, was a new pilot excited about taking to the skies.&nbsp; Just prior to December 7th, he arrived in the Philippine Islands as part of the 24th Pursuit Squadron.&nbsp; On December 8th, the Philippine Islands were attacked by the Japanese (10 hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor), and many of the airplanes were destroyed.&nbsp; As a consequence, Billy Tom was never able to fly as a pilot during World War II. &nbsp;

While I had learned some of the story of my great uncle, Billy Tom, it was not until about a couple of years ago that I learned much more. &nbsp;

I discovered a book that covers the 24th Pursuit Squadron and the events in the Philippines from December 1941 through April 1942. I learned that after Manila was bomb on December 8th, 1941, Billy Tom, and the other American soldiers took to the jungles of the Philippines, converting from pilots to foot soldiers.&nbsp; They fought for the next five months against the Japanese invasion of the Philippines.&nbsp; I learned of the many hardships the soldiers endured—starvation; infections; extraordinary heat; sleeping in craters created by bombs that exploded so close to them. I learned of their eventual capture and their experiences on the Bataan Death March—and many did not survive.

The book ends there.&nbsp; From that point forward, the story is recounted by my grandmother. I was also able to find some historical background by following military records.&nbsp;

After the Bataan Death March, Billy Tom spent time in various prison camps.&nbsp; His family thought he was dead (they thought that for over three years).&nbsp; On three different ships, Billy Tom was shipped from the Philippines to Japan.&nbsp; On the first ship, there were approximately 1,600 prisoners. When that ship was sunk (by the U.S.), the U.S. prisoners were recaptured and put on another ship (I found a U.S.A. military photograph showing the men swimming from the sinking ship to the shore). It too was sunk (again by the U.S.). The soldiers were again recaptured. By the time Billy Tom arrived in Japan in January 1945, out of the 1,600 prisoners, less than 400 had survived.&nbsp; Billy Tom eventually ended up in a prison camp in Korea. &nbsp;

It was only after being placed in Korea, and near the very end of the war, did my grandmother learn that her brother was still alive.&nbsp; His pre-war fiancé, Betty, had already given him up as dead, and had married.&nbsp; Upon learning that he was still alive, Betty, who had only been married a short time, promptly divorced her husband and waited for Billy Tom’s arrival back home.

I share this story with you because I hear many stories like it in my office.&nbsp; While practicing elder law for over 16 years, I began working with World War II veterans, like my granduncle.&nbsp; Eventually, the numbers of those World War II veterans became less and less.&nbsp; And then, we transitioned to the Korean War veterans.&nbsp; Again, more and more of those heroes are no longer with us.&nbsp; And now, it’s Vietnam veterans.&nbsp; But, I don’t want to forget all of those veterans that served even during non-wartime.&nbsp;

I want to comment about all those veterans and about Billy Tom.&nbsp; Many of the veterans are reluctant to share their stores, but when they do, or when I learned about what all my great-uncle had been through, I’m amazed that they were able to come back and be productive and involved in society.&nbsp; Though experiencing great hardship, and great sacrifices for our country, they came back and became integral to the fabric of our society. Despite hardships, they jumped right in and contributed.&nbsp; In many ways, they are the backbone of our country.

Those veterans returning from those foreign wars did not let it change who they were and how productive they would be.&nbsp; They joined back into society.

Let me finish my story about Billy Tom. &nbsp;

In September, 1945, Billy Tom was liberated from the prisoner of war camp. Because of his emaciated state, he was shipped to Cuba, along with many other freed prisoners of war. He spent time there on the beach recuperating and as he said, “fattening himself up”.&nbsp;

He was finally united with my grandmother, his mother, and his brothers. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578498921842.png" alt="Randy Clinkscales" />
 <figcaption>Randy Clinkscales</figcaption>
 </figure>Veterans Day is today, November 11th.&nbsp; We celebrate the sacrifices that our veterans faced on behalf of our country.&nbsp; Please allow me to share the story of a veteran in my life.December 7th is a solemn reminder of the day Pearl Harbor was bombed.&nbsp; While most of us were not yet born in 1941, stories have passed down from our parents and grandparents about the events of that day, as well as the subsequent changes in the world. But December 8th has great meaning to me, as well.My grandmother, Thelma, had three brothers.&nbsp; One, Billy Tom Wafer, was a new pilot excited about taking to the skies.&nbsp; Just prior to December 7th, he arrived in the Philippine Islands as part of the 24th Pursuit Squadron.&nbsp; On December 8th, the Philippine Islands were attacked by the Japanese (10 hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor), and many of the airplanes were destroyed.&nbsp; As a consequence, Billy Tom was never able to fly as a pilot during World War II. &nbsp;While I had learned some of the story of my great uncle, Billy Tom, it was not until about a couple of years ago that I learned much more. &nbsp;I discovered a book that covers the 24th Pursuit Squadron and the events in the Philippines from December 1941 through April 1942. I learned that after Manila was bomb on December 8th, 1941, Billy Tom, and the other American soldiers took to the jungles of the Philippines, converting from pilots to foot soldiers.&nbsp; They fought for the next five months against the Japanese invasion of the Philippines.&nbsp; I learned of the many hardships the soldiers endured—starvation; infections; extraordinary heat; sleeping in craters created by bombs that exploded so close to them. I learned of their eventual capture and their experiences on the Bataan Death March—and many did not survive.The book ends there.&nbsp; From that point forward, the story is recounted by my grandmother. I was also able to find some historical background by following military records.&nbsp;After the Bataan Death March, Billy Tom spent time in various prison camps.&nbsp; His family thought he was dead (they thought that for over three years).&nbsp; On three different ships, Billy Tom was shipped from the Philippines to Japan.&nbsp; On the first ship, there were approximately 1,600 prisoners. When that ship was sunk (by the U.S.), the U.S. prisoners were recaptured and put on another ship (I found a U.S.A. military photograph showing the men swimming from the sinking ship to the shore). It too was sunk (again by the U.S.). The soldiers were again recaptured. By the time Billy Tom arrived in Japan in January 1945, out of the 1,600 prisoners, less than 400 had survived.&nbsp; Billy Tom eventually ended up in a prison camp in Korea. &nbsp;It was only after being placed in Korea, and near the very end of the war, did my grandmother learn that her brother was still alive.&nbsp; His pre-war fiancé, Betty, had already given him up as dead, and had married.&nbsp; Upon learning that he was still alive, Betty, who had only been married a short time, promptly divorced her husband and waited for Billy Tom’s arrival back home.I share this story with you because I hear many stories like it in my office.&nbsp; While practicing elder law for over 16 years, I began working with World War II veterans, like my granduncle.&nbsp; Eventually, the numbers of those World War II veterans became less and less.&nbsp; And then, we transitioned to the Korean War veterans.&nbsp; Again, more and more of those heroes are no longer with us.&nbsp; And now, it’s Vietnam veterans.&nbsp; But, I don’t want to forget all of those veterans that served even during non-wartime.&nbsp;I want to comment about all those veterans and about Billy Tom.&nbsp; Many of the veterans are reluctant to share their stores, but when they do, or when I learned about what all my great-uncle had been through, I’m amazed that they were able to come back and be productive and involved in society.&nbsp; Though experiencing great hardship, and great sacrifices for our country, they came back and became integral to the fabric of our society. Despite hardships, they jumped right in and contributed.&nbsp; In many ways, they are the backbone of our country.Those veterans returning from those foreign wars did not let it change who they were and how productive they would be.&nbsp; They joined back into society.Let me finish my story about Billy Tom. &nbsp;In September, 1945, Billy Tom was liberated from the prisoner of war camp. Because of his emaciated state, he was shipped to Cuba, along with many other freed prisoners of war. He spent time there on the beach recuperating and as he said, “fattening himself up”.&nbsp;He was finally united with my grandmother, his mother, and his brothers. &nbsp;About six months after returning home, the relationship with Betty was rekindled and Billy Tom and Betty were married.&nbsp; Billy Tom remained in the military and they moved to Langley, Virginia.&nbsp;Billy Tom died about a year and a half after being freed, doing what he always wanted to do – flying an airplane. Unfortunately, while testing a new “jet”, it exploded in midair during an airshow.&nbsp; My grandmother gave me Billy Tom’s metals, including his Purple Heart.When Veterans Day or December 8th comes around each year, I will always think of Billy Tom, and the tribulations he began to endure on that day in December, 1941, and for the next almost four years. Yet, he never gave up, either as a prisoner of war, or after gaining his freedom. He married his childhood sweetheart and he flew again. He did not let his past stop him from enjoying life and becoming what he wanted to become.Veterans, thank you for your service. Thank you for coming home.&nbsp; So many didn’t. &nbsp;Randy Clinkscales of Clinkscales Elder Law Practice, PA, Hays, 
Kansas, is an elder care attorney, practicing in western Kansas. To 
contact him, please send an email to randy@clinkscaleslaw.com. 
Disclaimer: The information in the column is for general information 
purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is different 
and outcomes depend on the fact of each case and the then applicable 
law. For specific questions, you should contact a qualified attorney.

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