STILLWATER, Okla. - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team placed fourth and the men finished seventh at the 2023 Cowboy Jamboree hosted by Oklahoma State at the Greiner Family Cross Country Course Saturday morning (Sept. 23). The Tiger women were the top Division II team in the standings, while the men were third out of the 10 male DII programs in attendance.

The Tiger women accumulated 161 points, fewest amongst the 13 female DII teams in the competition. The men racked up 202 points across their top five finishers.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/7646">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;was the top Tiger finisher for the second week in a row, placing 19th out of 199 finishers and first amongst NCAA DII competition after crossing the line in the six-kilometer race in 22:34.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/7643">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;placed 53rd with a time of 23:53.8, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/7671">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;crossed the line in 24:11.2 to finish 65th. The Tiger top five was rounded out by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/7681">Madison Sutterfield</a>&nbsp;(24:19.3) in 70th and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/7680">Brenna Murphy</a>&nbsp;(24:29.9) in 76th.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/grant-bradley/7649">Grant Bradley</a>&nbsp;paced the men's squad, finishing in 26th place with a time of 25:48.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/7659">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;traversed the eight-kilometer track in 25:55.4, good for 32nd place.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/corbin-ricke/7661">Corbin Ricke</a>&nbsp;was 65th with a time of 26:44.2, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/trever-medina/7657">Trever Medina</a>&nbsp;finishing 73rd after crossing the line in 27:01.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/7658">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;was just five seconds behind Medina, rounding out the Tiger top five in 80th with a time of 27:06.6.

Oklahoma State swept both team titles, winning with 16 points on the women's side and 26 points in the men's race.

The Tigers are scheduled to conclude the regular season in two weeks when they travel to Emporia, Kan. for the Hornet Harrier Invitational on Friday, October 6.Full 

FHSU Women's Results Team - 4th - 161 points 19th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/7646">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;- 22:34.4 503rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/7643">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;- 23:53.8 65th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/7671">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;- 24:11.2 70th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/7681">Madison Sutterfield</a>&nbsp;- 24:19.3 76th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/7680">Brenna Murphy</a>&nbsp;- 24:29.9 85th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/faith-little/7644">Faith Little</a>&nbsp;- 24:43.5 92nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/7641">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;- 25:02.5 102nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/hattie-lukert/7645">Hattie Lukert</a>&nbsp;- 25:20.6 132nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/amelia-foster/7670">Amelia Foster</a>&nbsp;- 26:36.5

Full FHSU Men's Results Team - 7th - 202 points 26th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/grant-bradley/7649">Grant Bradley</a>&nbsp;- 25:48.4 32nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/7659">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;- 25:55.4 65th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/corbin-ricke/7661">Corbin Ricke</a>&nbsp;- 26:44.2 73rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/trever-medina/7657">Trever Medina</a>&nbsp;- 27:01.4 80th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/7658">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;- 27:06.6 87th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/javyn-contreras/7651">Javyn Contreras</a>&nbsp;- 27:15.1 95th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/carsyn-turpin/7667">Carsyn Turpin</a>&nbsp;- 27:23.0 120th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/andrew-waller/7662">Andrew Waller</a>&nbsp;- 28:01.4 123rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/kaiden-esfeld/7664">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;- 28:04.7 139th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-fisher/7654">Ethan Fisher</a>&nbsp;- 28:24.9 146th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/brady-stegman/7666">Brady Stegman</a>&nbsp;- 28:34.5 151st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/aaron-mangan/7656">Aaron Mangan</a>&nbsp;- 28:41.5 178th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/daniel-bechle/7647">Daniel Bechle</a>&nbsp;- 29:34.0&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695527188554.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Darian Hudgeons runs at the FHSU Tiger Open on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Jaxson Webb)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Darian Hudgeons runs at the FHSU Tiger Open on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Jaxson Webb)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsSTILLWATER, Okla. - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team placed fourth and the men finished seventh at the 2023 Cowboy Jamboree hosted by Oklahoma State at the Greiner Family Cross Country Course Saturday morning (Sept. 23). The Tiger women were the top Division II team in the standings, while the men were third out of the 10 male DII programs in attendance.The Tiger women accumulated 161 points, fewest amongst the 13 female DII teams in the competition. The men racked up 202 points across their top five finishers.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/7646">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;was the top Tiger finisher for the second week in a row, placing 19th out of 199 finishers and first amongst NCAA DII competition after crossing the line in the six-kilometer race in 22:34.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/7643">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;placed 53rd with a time of 23:53.8, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/7671">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;crossed the line in 24:11.2 to finish 65th. The Tiger top five was rounded out by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/7681">Madison Sutterfield</a>&nbsp;(24:19.3) in 70th and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/7680">Brenna Murphy</a>&nbsp;(24:29.9) in 76th.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/grant-bradley/7649">Grant Bradley</a>&nbsp;paced the men's squad, finishing in 26th place with a time of 25:48.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/7659">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;traversed the eight-kilometer track in 25:55.4, good for 32nd place.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/corbin-ricke/7661">Corbin Ricke</a>&nbsp;was 65th with a time of 26:44.2, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/trever-medina/7657">Trever Medina</a>&nbsp;finishing 73rd after crossing the line in 27:01.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/7658">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;was just five seconds behind Medina, rounding out the Tiger top five in 80th with a time of 27:06.6.Oklahoma State swept both team titles, winning with 16 points on the women's side and 26 points in the men's race.The Tigers are scheduled to conclude the regular season in two weeks when they travel to Emporia, Kan. for the Hornet Harrier Invitational on Friday, October 6.Full FHSU Women's Results Team - 4th - 161 points 19th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/7646">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;- 22:34.4 503rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/7643">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;- 23:53.8 65th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/7671">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;- 24:11.2 70th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/7681">Madison Sutterfield</a>&nbsp;- 24:19.3 76th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/7680">Brenna Murphy</a>&nbsp;- 24:29.9 85th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/faith-little/7644">Faith Little</a>&nbsp;- 24:43.5 92nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/7641">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;- 25:02.5 102nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/hattie-lukert/7645">Hattie Lukert</a>&nbsp;- 25:20.6 132nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/amelia-foster/7670">Amelia Foster</a>&nbsp;- 26:36.5Full FHSU Men's Results Team - 7th - 202 points 26th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/grant-bradley/7649">Grant Bradley</a>&nbsp;- 25:48.4 32nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/7659">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;- 25:55.4 65th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/corbin-ricke/7661">Corbin Ricke</a>&nbsp;- 26:44.2 73rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/trever-medina/7657">Trever Medina</a>&nbsp;- 27:01.4 80th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/7658">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;- 27:06.6 87th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/javyn-contreras/7651">Javyn Contreras</a>&nbsp;- 27:15.1 95th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/carsyn-turpin/7667">Carsyn Turpin</a>&nbsp;- 27:23.0 120th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/andrew-waller/7662">Andrew Waller</a>&nbsp;- 28:01.4 123rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/kaiden-esfeld/7664">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;- 28:04.7 139th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-fisher/7654">Ethan Fisher</a>&nbsp;- 28:24.9 146th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/brady-stegman/7666">Brady Stegman</a>&nbsp;- 28:34.5 151st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/aaron-mangan/7656">Aaron Mangan</a>&nbsp;- 28:41.5 178th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/daniel-bechle/7647">Daniel Bechle</a>&nbsp;- 29:34.0&nbsp;&nbsp;

👟 FHSU women fourth, men seventh at OSU Cowboy Jamboree

The Coyotes are back on the road Saturday for a Kansas Conference game against Bethel. Kickoff is 6 p.m. at Thresher Stadium in North Newton.

The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan">www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan</a>. Bethel will be handling video production.. Live Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary.">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary.</a> Radio coverage can be heard locally on KINA 910 AM/107.5 FM, and online at Eagle Communication's Post Sites (salinapost.com&nbsp;in Salina). The online stream is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>. Tyler Henry will have the call with pregame starting at 5:00 p.m.

Bethel's 30-24 victory last season in JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex ended KWU's 13-game winning streak. It was the Coyotes first loss to the Threshers since the 2008 season. KWU has an 18-4 edge since the 2001 season.

The Coyotes evened their record with a 35-28 victory over previously unbeaten Friends last Saturday at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex. The offense produced a season-high 353 yards that included a season-best 245 rushing yards.

Nick Allsman&nbsp;led the ground attack with 125 yards on 17 carries and&nbsp;Tyler Boston&nbsp;had 96 yards on 19 attempts. Both scored a touchdown as well. Quarterback&nbsp;Richard Lara&nbsp;was 9 of 13 passing for 108 yards, no interceptions and one touchdown - a 74-yard catch and run by&nbsp;Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey&nbsp;in the third quarter that broke a 7-7 tie. Lara also ran for KWU's final score in the fourth quarter and was not sacked during the game.

Luke Armstrong&nbsp;returned a punt 88 yards for touchdown early in the third quarter that gave the Coyotes a 21-7 lead. He also returned a kickoff 28 yards and was chosen the KCAC's Special Teams Player of the Week.. Friends entered the game averaging just under 56 points and 533 total yards - 494 rushing - but had 388 total yard and 320 rushing Saturday. Linebacker&nbsp;Shaylan Lewis&nbsp;had a team-best 13 tackles, linebacker&nbsp;Ricco Moore&nbsp;11 and safety&nbsp;Julian Urioste&nbsp;10 for the Coyotes.

KWU closes out play against the Kessinger Division a week from Saturday when McPherson comes to town. Following a bye week October 7 the Coyotes begin play against fellow Bissell Division opponents starting with Avila on October 14 in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Threshers defeated Avila 42-26 last Saturday in Kansas City. They led 35-6 at halftime but surrendered 20 points in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;They opened the season with victories over Sterling and Saint Mary but lost to Ottawa 28-24 September 9 in North Newton. Bethel doesn't run the flexbone but does employ a triple option offense that has been highly effective. The Threshers average 324 yards rushing, 420 total yards and are scoring 41 points per game. They had 405 total yards against Avila that included 264 on the ground. Bethel, like Friends, has a dynamic quarterback in DJ Ciers. He had 107 yards and two touchdowns running the ball and threw for 141 yards and two more scores against Avila. Ciers has 610 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns this season and averages 152.5 yards rushing and 95.5 yards passing per game.

 Bethel's defense has been stellar as well. Opponents are averaging 19.8 points and 72 yards rushing per game.

Linebacker Kade Miller has a team-best 31 tackles and linebacker Tate Seaboldt 29. Miller was the KCAC Defensive Player of the Week after making seven tackles and returning an interception 44 yards for a touchdown against Avila - his second pick six of the season.

"I was just super impressed by the overall effort by our guys. The energy on the sideline was incredible and the fans were awesome. The difference between 1-3 and 2-2 is massive - it was really a great night.&nbsp;Lara made great decisions with the ball and the zero sack thing is just huge. The final piece of this is making sure that we can stretch the defense vertically (with the passing game). Bethel is not the same offense (as Friends) but has a similar philosophy, they run the ball about 90 percent of the time. Their quarterback is extremely athletic and very, very fast. We need to find a way to make sure that he's on the ground at the end of the play and not making moves and cutting up the field. Their defense is very similar to Evangel who we didn't have a ton of success against."

The Coyotes return to Bissell Field in JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex on Saturday for a game against McPherson. Kickoff is 1 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695478804369.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Coyotes are back on the road Saturday for a Kansas Conference game against Bethel. Kickoff is 6 p.m. at Thresher Stadium in North Newton.<h2>LIVE COVERAGE</h2>The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan">www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan</a>. Bethel will be handling video production.. Live Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary.">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary.</a> Radio coverage can be heard locally on KINA 910 AM/107.5 FM, and online at Eagle Communication's Post Sites (salinapost.com&nbsp;in Salina). The online stream is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>. Tyler Henry will have the call with pregame starting at 5:00 p.m.<h2>RECORDS</h2>Kansas Wesleyan 2-2. Bethel 3-1<h2>THE SERIES</h2>Bethel's 30-24 victory last season in JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex ended KWU's 13-game winning streak. It was the Coyotes first loss to the Threshers since the 2008 season. KWU has an 18-4 edge since the 2001 season.<h2>KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE</h2>The Coyotes evened their record with a 35-28 victory over previously unbeaten Friends last Saturday at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex. The offense produced a season-high 353 yards that included a season-best 245 rushing yards.Nick Allsman&nbsp;led the ground attack with 125 yards on 17 carries and&nbsp;Tyler Boston&nbsp;had 96 yards on 19 attempts. Both scored a touchdown as well. Quarterback&nbsp;Richard Lara&nbsp;was 9 of 13 passing for 108 yards, no interceptions and one touchdown - a 74-yard catch and run by&nbsp;Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey&nbsp;in the third quarter that broke a 7-7 tie. Lara also ran for KWU's final score in the fourth quarter and was not sacked during the game.Luke Armstrong&nbsp;returned a punt 88 yards for touchdown early in the third quarter that gave the Coyotes a 21-7 lead. He also returned a kickoff 28 yards and was chosen the KCAC's Special Teams Player of the Week.. Friends entered the game averaging just under 56 points and 533 total yards - 494 rushing - but had 388 total yard and 320 rushing Saturday. Linebacker&nbsp;Shaylan Lewis&nbsp;had a team-best 13 tackles, linebacker&nbsp;Ricco Moore&nbsp;11 and safety&nbsp;Julian Urioste&nbsp;10 for the Coyotes.KWU closes out play against the Kessinger Division a week from Saturday when McPherson comes to town. Following a bye week October 7 the Coyotes begin play against fellow Bissell Division opponents starting with Avila on October 14 in Kansas City, Missouri.<h2>BETHEL AT A GLANCE</h2> The Threshers defeated Avila 42-26 last Saturday in Kansas City. They led 35-6 at halftime but surrendered 20 points in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;They opened the season with victories over Sterling and Saint Mary but lost to Ottawa 28-24 September 9 in North Newton. Bethel doesn't run the flexbone but does employ a triple option offense that has been highly effective. The Threshers average 324 yards rushing, 420 total yards and are scoring 41 points per game. They had 405 total yards against Avila that included 264 on the ground. Bethel, like Friends, has a dynamic quarterback in DJ Ciers. He had 107 yards and two touchdowns running the ball and threw for 141 yards and two more scores against Avila. Ciers has 610 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns this season and averages 152.5 yards rushing and 95.5 yards passing per game. Bethel's defense has been stellar as well. Opponents are averaging 19.8 points and 72 yards rushing per game.Linebacker Kade Miller has a team-best 31 tackles and linebacker Tate Seaboldt 29. Miller was the KCAC Defensive Player of the Week after making seven tackles and returning an interception 44 yards for a touchdown against Avila - his second pick six of the season.<h2>KWU COACH MATT MYERS-</h2>"I was just super impressed by the overall effort by our guys. The energy on the sideline was incredible and the fans were awesome. The difference between 1-3 and 2-2 is massive - it was really a great night.&nbsp;Lara made great decisions with the ball and the zero sack thing is just huge. The final piece of this is making sure that we can stretch the defense vertically (with the passing game). Bethel is not the same offense (as Friends) but has a similar philosophy, they run the ball about 90 percent of the time. Their quarterback is extremely athletic and very, very fast. We need to find a way to make sure that he's on the ground at the end of the play and not making moves and cutting up the field. Their defense is very similar to Evangel who we didn't have a ton of success against."<h2>Next Week</h2>The Coyotes return to Bissell Field in JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex on Saturday for a game against McPherson. Kickoff is 1 p.m.

K-Dub Football travels to North Newton on Saturday to face Bethel

Annual Essenfest is October 22; chefs can register now

Living Well Wednesday will begin its fall series in October. It will be the first Wednesday of the month at 12:10 p.m. 

Here is the amazing line up for October 2023-December 2023:

October 4: It's not so Kool to JUUL

Vaping is the new epidemic among youth. Twenty-five percent of Kansas high school students currently vape or have vaped. What do we know about vaping? What does it look like and who is behind this epidemic and why? So, how can we help educate the public and youth? We have learned many things about vaping in the past few years, it causes depression, is very addictive, and hard to quit. Kansas has several programs that are available to help combat this vaping problem among our youth. These topics will be discussed as well as the work going on in prevention.

Presenter: Donna Gerstner, LiveWell Finney County CDRR Grant Coordinator and the E- Cig Prevention Grant Coordinator

November 1: Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried Do Parents Need to Be?

This program will examine the current state of teen mental health and decipher for parents what is normal teen stress versus when professional help maybe needed. Parents want to say the right thing when their child talks about their stresses, but sometimes it is hard to find the words. This will give parents scripts and strategies to talk about these tricky topics. Christy Perez, a licensed clinical counselor, will be available to answer any of those hard questions parents may have.

Presenters: • Christine D. Perez, EdS, LCPC; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Director of Crisis Services @ Crawford County Mental Health Center •&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Tynon, M.S in Family Life Education and Consultation; Family Consumer Science Agent, Pottawatomie County

December 6: Rapid Development of Baby Brains and Why it Matters

Offered in Spanish on Thursday, December 7 at 11 a.m.

This session will describe the importance of early experiences for babies because of their rapid brain development. Discuss the effects of stress and trauma on brain development and actions that provide protective factors for healthy brain development in babies.

Presenters: • Dr. Bradford Wiles, Kansas State University Child Development Specialist • Monique Koerner, Community Wellness Extension Agent, Cottonwood District •&nbsp; Tristen Cope, Family and Youth Development Agent, Chisholm Trail District Presenter for Spanish: • Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life &amp; Resource Management Agent, Sedgwick County

We are hoping to reach parents of all ages and those that interact with youth. Spanish versions will also be available through a live webinar on December 7; other topics will be offered through prerecording with links posted on website: <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/</a>

Mark your calendars and join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522176561.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Living Well Wednesday will begin its fall series in October. It will be the first Wednesday of the month at 12:10 p.m. Here is the amazing line up for October 2023-December 2023:October 4: It's not so Kool to JUULVaping is the new epidemic among youth. Twenty-five percent of Kansas high school students currently vape or have vaped. What do we know about vaping? What does it look like and who is behind this epidemic and why? So, how can we help educate the public and youth? We have learned many things about vaping in the past few years, it causes depression, is very addictive, and hard to quit. Kansas has several programs that are available to help combat this vaping problem among our youth. These topics will be discussed as well as the work going on in prevention.Presenter: Donna Gerstner, LiveWell Finney County CDRR Grant Coordinator and the E- Cig Prevention Grant CoordinatorNovember 1: Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried Do Parents Need to Be?This program will examine the current state of teen mental health and decipher for parents what is normal teen stress versus when professional help maybe needed. Parents want to say the right thing when their child talks about their stresses, but sometimes it is hard to find the words. This will give parents scripts and strategies to talk about these tricky topics. Christy Perez, a licensed clinical counselor, will be available to answer any of those hard questions parents may have.Presenters: • Christine D. Perez, EdS, LCPC; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Director of Crisis Services @ Crawford County Mental Health Center •&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Tynon, M.S in Family Life Education and Consultation; Family Consumer Science Agent, Pottawatomie County December 6: Rapid Development of Baby Brains and Why it MattersOffered in Spanish on Thursday, December 7 at 11 a.m.This session will describe the importance of early experiences for babies because of their rapid brain development. Discuss the effects of stress and trauma on brain development and actions that provide protective factors for healthy brain development in babies.Presenters: • Dr. Bradford Wiles, Kansas State University Child Development Specialist • Monique Koerner, Community Wellness Extension Agent, Cottonwood District •&nbsp; Tristen Cope, Family and Youth Development Agent, Chisholm Trail District Presenter for Spanish: • Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life &amp; Resource Management Agent, Sedgwick County We are hoping to reach parents of all ages and those that interact with youth. Spanish versions will also be available through a live webinar on December 7; other topics will be offered through prerecording with links posted on website: <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/</a>Mark your calendars and join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Living Well Wednesday virtual learning series starts in Oct.

The general target date for planting wheat for optimum grain yields in Kansas is within a week of the best pest management planting date, or BPMP (formerly known as the “Hessian fly-free”) date. If forage production is the primary goal, earlier planting (mid-September) can increase forage yield. However, if grain yield is the primary goal, then waiting until the BPMP date to start planting is the best approach 

Planting in mid-September is ideal for dual-purpose wheat systems where forage yields need to be maximized while reducing the effects of early planting on reduced grain yields. However, due to the current dry conditions, coupled with the outlook of continued drought in Kansas, planting wheat for dual-purpose or for forage only does not seem like a viable option this year.

While the BPMP planting date on wheat yield will hold true for most years, they will largely depend on environmental conditions and disease pressure during the growing season.

 In some years, earlier-planted wheat does best and in some years the later-planted wheat does best, and these year-specific performances usually relate to the weather experienced in the fall and spring. For instance, early-planted fields in growing seasons with a warm fall might produce excessive biomass that will use an excessive amount of water during the fall. If the following spring is dry, soil water deficit during grain filling then can reduce grain yield. Conversely, a warm fall would favor tillering of a later-planted wheat crop, helping to compensate for this delay. 

The opposite is also true: in years with an early onset of cold temperatures during the fall, an earlier planted crop might perform better than a later-planted crop due to its ability to produce enough fall tillers to maximize grain yield. 

Research was conducted by Merle Witt with late-sown wheat in Garden City from 1985 through 1991. Averaged across all these years, delaying wheat sowing from October 1 to November 1 delayed heading date by 6 days and decreased wheat yields by 23%. The grain-filling period was progressively shortened by about 1.7 days and occurred under hotter temperatures (about 1.5°F) for every month of delay in sowing date.

In dry years, seedling emergence and stand establishment can be uneven. These dry conditions can also lead to poor crown root development and fall tillering. If fields become too wet to plant by mid-October and stay that way through the remainder of the fall, then producers end up planting much later than the optimum planting date.

 Following an unusual year, producers will often start planting earlier than the recommended date if soil conditions are good because the negative consequences of adverse conditions are fresh on their minds. However, planting early also increases the risk of other production problems including multiple diseases, insect pests, weed infestations, and undesirable growth of the crop, to name a few. 

To read the full article of the many risks associated with early planting and to see accompanying tables with other information related to this article (recommended planting dates, etc.) go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.

In summary, early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, from increased chances of insect or mite-transmitted viral diseases to decreased emergence due to high temperatures and&nbsp;its consequences on wheat germination of particular varieties and reduced coleoptile length. 

Ideally, growers should consider planting around the optimum window; but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers should strongly consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The general target date for planting wheat for optimum grain yields in Kansas is within a week of the best pest management planting date, or BPMP (formerly known as the “Hessian fly-free”) date. If forage production is the primary goal, earlier planting (mid-September) can increase forage yield. However, if grain yield is the primary goal, then waiting until the BPMP date to start planting is the best approach Planting in mid-September is ideal for dual-purpose wheat systems where forage yields need to be maximized while reducing the effects of early planting on reduced grain yields. However, due to the current dry conditions, coupled with the outlook of continued drought in Kansas, planting wheat for dual-purpose or for forage only does not seem like a viable option this year.While the BPMP planting date on wheat yield will hold true for most years, they will largely depend on environmental conditions and disease pressure during the growing season. In some years, earlier-planted wheat does best and in some years the later-planted wheat does best, and these year-specific performances usually relate to the weather experienced in the fall and spring. For instance, early-planted fields in growing seasons with a warm fall might produce excessive biomass that will use an excessive amount of water during the fall. If the following spring is dry, soil water deficit during grain filling then can reduce grain yield. Conversely, a warm fall would favor tillering of a later-planted wheat crop, helping to compensate for this delay. The opposite is also true: in years with an early onset of cold temperatures during the fall, an earlier planted crop might perform better than a later-planted crop due to its ability to produce enough fall tillers to maximize grain yield. Research was conducted by Merle Witt with late-sown wheat in Garden City from 1985 through 1991. Averaged across all these years, delaying wheat sowing from October 1 to November 1 delayed heading date by 6 days and decreased wheat yields by 23%. The grain-filling period was progressively shortened by about 1.7 days and occurred under hotter temperatures (about 1.5°F) for every month of delay in sowing date.In dry years, seedling emergence and stand establishment can be uneven. These dry conditions can also lead to poor crown root development and fall tillering. If fields become too wet to plant by mid-October and stay that way through the remainder of the fall, then producers end up planting much later than the optimum planting date. Following an unusual year, producers will often start planting earlier than the recommended date if soil conditions are good because the negative consequences of adverse conditions are fresh on their minds. However, planting early also increases the risk of other production problems including multiple diseases, insect pests, weed infestations, and undesirable growth of the crop, to name a few. To read the full article of the many risks associated with early planting and to see accompanying tables with other information related to this article (recommended planting dates, etc.) go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.In summary, early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, from increased chances of insect or mite-transmitted viral diseases to decreased emergence due to high temperatures and&nbsp;its consequences on wheat germination of particular varieties and reduced coleoptile length. Ideally, growers should consider planting around the optimum window; but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers should strongly consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Be cautious of planting wheat too early   

TOPEKA, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team fell for the first time this season on Friday to the Washburn Ichabods by a score of 2-1. Fort Hays State's record moves to (4-1-2), while the Ichabods improve to (6-1-0). The Tigers were held scoreless in the first period and were limited to just five shots on the match.

The Ichabods set the tone of the match early with a goal in the 3' from Viviana Soto-Herrera. The Ichabods scored again in the 38' to take the 2-0 advantage before the halftime break. Despite surrendering two goals, the Tigers held the Ichabods to just five shots in the first period.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/allison-worley/7605">Allison Worley</a>&nbsp;scored the lone goal for the Tigers in the 63' off an assist from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/sullivan-kelly/7288">Sullivan Kelly</a>. The goal scored by Worley was her second of the season. Kelly now leads the team with three assists.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/montserrat-diaz/7282">Montserrat Diaz</a>&nbsp;recorded two shots throughout the match with both being on goal.

Both squads will meet again later in the season in Hays on Friday, October 27.The team will be back in action on Sunday (Sept. 24) with a road match against Emporia State. The match is set to start at 2 p.m. in Emporia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695437268201.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Kelly, Sullivan brings the ball up the field in an NCAA soccer match vs. Augustana on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Kelly, Sullivan brings the ball up the field in an NCAA soccer match vs. Augustana on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsTOPEKA, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team fell for the first time this season on Friday to the Washburn Ichabods by a score of 2-1. Fort Hays State's record moves to (4-1-2), while the Ichabods improve to (6-1-0). The Tigers were held scoreless in the first period and were limited to just five shots on the match.The Ichabods set the tone of the match early with a goal in the 3' from Viviana Soto-Herrera. The Ichabods scored again in the 38' to take the 2-0 advantage before the halftime break. Despite surrendering two goals, the Tigers held the Ichabods to just five shots in the first period.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/allison-worley/7605">Allison Worley</a>&nbsp;scored the lone goal for the Tigers in the 63' off an assist from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/sullivan-kelly/7288">Sullivan Kelly</a>. The goal scored by Worley was her second of the season. Kelly now leads the team with three assists.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/montserrat-diaz/7282">Montserrat Diaz</a>&nbsp;recorded two shots throughout the match with both being on goal.Both squads will meet again later in the season in Hays on Friday, October 27.The team will be back in action on Sunday (Sept. 24) with a road match against Emporia State. The match is set to start at 2 p.m. in Emporia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Ichabods hand Tiger women their first loss of the season

Dennis Donald Bakos, age 80, of Hays, Kansas passed away Monday, September 18, 2023 in Wichita.

Funeral services will be on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the Comeau Catholic Campus Chapel.

A full obituary will be provided by Keithley Funeral Homes when completed.

Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Dennis Donald Bakos, 80</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695430540523.jpeg" alt="Dennis Donald Bakos" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Donald Bakos</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Donald Bakos, age 80, of Hays, Kansas passed away Monday, September 18, 2023 in Wichita.Funeral services will be on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the Comeau Catholic Campus Chapel.A full obituary will be provided by Keithley Funeral Homes when completed.Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dennis Donald Bakos

TOPEKA — The Kansas Manufacturing Council on Tuesday announced the 16 products that made it into the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-ESctnS9ERH1EFixJE2fAwEXF5l78vo590lP3GSj79Fy2CEqPlOI_CoC-C6xmSuec_EVK0Y_TBAIROk4P1UwrqFMxkPfZaSK1ci5O8Ae2cl4CFc0BwjBZA5L0wM0bFec5AjoGUOaRRhF4oAlyG-9ntxdF8Dqyv01hNTJWR4gGwkjT&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas - People's Choice Tournament</a>.

Among the 16 products is RANS Designs, Inc. of Hays with its S-21 OUTBOUND Ready to Fly Plane.

"Kansans cast thousands of votes for their favorite products during the this year's nomination round. The top 16 vote getters are a great representation of the diverse items made in Kansas communities across the state," said KMC Executive Director Brandie McPherson. "We are excited to get this year's tournament started."

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-ESctnS9ERH1E6OdowECtS8WyRBwl-T5ExK69n4mqu4d7lwYQ01lDbDuKDNQPMFu257qDNFQBWKr-2VKS5V704kRVnpnW5uN9EmI8fmxbUz5ckRo9-YQZPfTxvVez_GuBP7WAa8VhIV0wpNw3FhXjOHSqgyU8trF8Sa1VXhNSmby1-YynoiNscwQ=&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to read the list of the products that qualified for the tournament.

They&nbsp;will compete in head-to-head match-ups during the next six weeks. Those receiving the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the&nbsp;Coolest Thing Made in Kansas - People's Choice.

McPherson said with the tournament set, voting&nbsp;is now open for the first round of the tournament until September 22 at 5:00 p.m.

The winner will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-EQaXMz91MUdbU9Gx0YKCxLRyYUINH2lqpLKPGL3U9Idpy8D4azHhW_hpRQWjKoYV2O-R0afyWokhETjnUUtvJ15o2VzEfSLntVgwcVaOHmlJ&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-EQaXMz91MUdbU9Gx0YKCxLRyYUINH2lqpLKPGL3U9Idpy8D4azHhW_hpRQWjKoYV2O-R0afyWokhETjnUUtvJ15o2VzEfSLntVgwcVaOHmlJ&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a>on Tuesday, October 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita. The 16&nbsp;manufacturers&nbsp;featured in the contest will be invited to the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception&nbsp;the night before the summit and be asked to display their products during the summit.

Presented by FORVIS, the competition is a great way to learn about the many products manufactured in Kansas.

"It’s also a wonderful opportunity for Kansas manufacturers to show their best stuff and prove they have what it takes to be the&nbsp;Coolest Thing Made in Kansas," said McPherson.

Kansans can learn more about the tournament at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-EZhtLZACJSdwvpNg12VHEx4XeghP6pBYJZqsLAj2b9VqYcPiWQVN0YTMrAiWtrnkRTw2l7GWS9BH0qobEEvf5pg7ErUnUolz7A==&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">KansasCool.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694552221083.jpeg" alt="RANS&nbsp; Designs S-21 OUTBOUND Ready to Fly Plane. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>RANS&nbsp; Designs S-21 OUTBOUND Ready to Fly Plane. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KMCTOPEKA — The Kansas Manufacturing Council on Tuesday announced the 16 products that made it into the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-ESctnS9ERH1EFixJE2fAwEXF5l78vo590lP3GSj79Fy2CEqPlOI_CoC-C6xmSuec_EVK0Y_TBAIROk4P1UwrqFMxkPfZaSK1ci5O8Ae2cl4CFc0BwjBZA5L0wM0bFec5AjoGUOaRRhF4oAlyG-9ntxdF8Dqyv01hNTJWR4gGwkjT&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas - People's Choice Tournament</a>.Among the 16 products is RANS Designs, Inc. of Hays with its S-21 OUTBOUND Ready to Fly Plane."Kansans cast thousands of votes for their favorite products during the this year's nomination round. The top 16 vote getters are a great representation of the diverse items made in Kansas communities across the state," said KMC Executive Director Brandie McPherson. "We are excited to get this year's tournament started."<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-ESctnS9ERH1E6OdowECtS8WyRBwl-T5ExK69n4mqu4d7lwYQ01lDbDuKDNQPMFu257qDNFQBWKr-2VKS5V704kRVnpnW5uN9EmI8fmxbUz5ckRo9-YQZPfTxvVez_GuBP7WAa8VhIV0wpNw3FhXjOHSqgyU8trF8Sa1VXhNSmby1-YynoiNscwQ=&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to read the list of the products that qualified for the tournament. They&nbsp;will compete in head-to-head match-ups during the next six weeks. Those receiving the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the&nbsp;Coolest Thing Made in Kansas - People's Choice.McPherson said with the tournament set, voting&nbsp;is now open for the first round of the tournament until September 22 at 5:00 p.m.The winner will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-EQaXMz91MUdbU9Gx0YKCxLRyYUINH2lqpLKPGL3U9Idpy8D4azHhW_hpRQWjKoYV2O-R0afyWokhETjnUUtvJ15o2VzEfSLntVgwcVaOHmlJ&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-EQaXMz91MUdbU9Gx0YKCxLRyYUINH2lqpLKPGL3U9Idpy8D4azHhW_hpRQWjKoYV2O-R0afyWokhETjnUUtvJ15o2VzEfSLntVgwcVaOHmlJ&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a>on Tuesday, October 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita. The 16&nbsp;manufacturers&nbsp;featured in the contest will be invited to the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception&nbsp;the night before the summit and be asked to display their products during the summit.Presented by FORVIS, the competition is a great way to learn about the many products manufactured in Kansas."It’s also a wonderful opportunity for Kansas manufacturers to show their best stuff and prove they have what it takes to be the&nbsp;Coolest Thing Made in Kansas," said McPherson.Kansans can learn more about the tournament at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uTcvDm_g-KzO_SmWm7bhdCjoQht5xnrRLyhBd0HH-cAkH6kbTbb-EZhtLZACJSdwvpNg12VHEx4XeghP6pBYJZqsLAj2b9VqYcPiWQVN0YTMrAiWtrnkRTw2l7GWS9BH0qobEEvf5pg7ErUnUolz7A==&amp;c=0zq4aEYCMvyWKk1S65Rnz1UhezSXWM8yaZgnze32PhOGe4o2wS_2XQ==&amp;ch=D_2kD9GgDFMOMnllh0sBLvJbdnem47VccTJ2yABoOdX3DFGs_djDQQ==" target="_blank">KansasCool.com</a>.

RANS Designs of Hays makes top 16 list of Coolest Thing Made in Kansas; voting continues

Primary source research adds dimension to history. Hard copy sources limit researchers’ hypotheses and speculations. Sometimes, however, sources create more questions than they answer.

While working on this project in 1992, time restraints (I had approximately seven weeks to complete the project, including research, writing, and editing). Access to documents limited what I could include in my paper. 

Among favorite finds was Ellis Public Schools Second Annual Catalogue for 1913 – 1914. It offers insights into the community’s expectations for graduates and a couple of photos. Frankly, Ellis students who completed the work required for graduation left school prepared to enter the workforce. I’ve copied passages from the document to share with readers.

September 1-Enrollment and Classification September 2-Entrance Examination September 3-Regular Coursework Begins October 23 and 24-Half term Examination November 27 and 28-Thanksgiving Vacation December 18 and 19-First Term Examination December 19 to January 25-Christmas Vacation January 5-Second Term begins March 12 and 13-Half term examinations May 11-Baccalaureate Sermon May 18, 19, and 20-Final Examinations May 20-Commencement May 21-Alumni Day May 22-Last Day Programs

“The essential business of the school is not so much to teach and communicate a variety and multiplicity of things as it is to give prominence to the ever-living unity that is in all things.” Froebel

Fifteen Units are Required for Graduation&nbsp;(shared as written in the manual):

• Students who are preparing for admission to college should choose their elective studies so as to include at least two units in some foreign language and three units in one subject besides English to be taken from the following: Foreign language, mathematics, history, natural science.

• In branches which do not require preparation by the student outside of the recitation a unit of credit is given for a course of daily exercises extending through the year with double, or eighty-minute periods, and a half unit of credit is given for a course extending through the year with forty-minute periods.

• The Normal Training Course meets the requirements of the State Board of Education.

• If agriculture and domestic science are taken in the third year, this course will also satisfy the requirements of the State Board with reference to appropriations for these subjects.

• If two units in a foreign language are included in the electives, the course will be satisfactory for admission to most colleges.”

• Satisfactory rhetoricals are required of all students.” (Students were required to demonstrate mastery over a variety of writing skills and styles.)

Mahree Hamilton, Marie Chamberlain, Grace Houston, and Anna Shields fulfilled graduation goals as the senior class of 1913.

Later, in part 10 of this history, I’ll share high school course work schedules for college bound and non-college bound seniors. Students who satisfactorily completed that course work had skills to achieve any number of goals. 

Combining the district’s expected rigor with family expectations that sub-adult children contribute to family economies helps present day readers understand why graduating classes were small. Not every young person could devote the necessary time to meeting course requirements.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINPrimary source research adds dimension to history. Hard copy sources limit researchers’ hypotheses and speculations. Sometimes, however, sources create more questions than they answer. While working on this project in 1992, time restraints (I had approximately seven weeks to complete the project, including research, writing, and editing). Access to documents limited what I could include in my paper. Among favorite finds was Ellis Public Schools Second Annual Catalogue for 1913 – 1914. It offers insights into the community’s expectations for graduates and a couple of photos. Frankly, Ellis students who completed the work required for graduation left school prepared to enter the workforce. I’ve copied passages from the document to share with readers.Calendar, 1913 – 1914September 1-Enrollment and Classification September 2-Entrance Examination September 3-Regular Coursework Begins October 23 and 24-Half term Examination November 27 and 28-Thanksgiving Vacation December 18 and 19-First Term Examination December 19 to January 25-Christmas Vacation January 5-Second Term begins March 12 and 13-Half term examinations May 11-Baccalaureate Sermon May 18, 19, and 20-Final Examinations May 20-Commencement May 21-Alumni Day May 22-Last Day Programs Quote in program:“The essential business of the school is not so much to teach and communicate a variety and multiplicity of things as it is to give prominence to the ever-living unity that is in all things.” Froebel<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225334822.jpeg" alt="1913-1914 Ellis High School staff&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>1913-1914 Ellis High School staff&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Fifteen Units are Required for Graduation&nbsp;(shared as written in the manual):• Students who are preparing for admission to college should choose their elective studies so as to include at least two units in some foreign language and three units in one subject besides English to be taken from the following: Foreign language, mathematics, history, natural science. • In branches which do not require preparation by the student outside of the recitation a unit of credit is given for a course of daily exercises extending through the year with double, or eighty-minute periods, and a half unit of credit is given for a course extending through the year with forty-minute periods.• The Normal Training Course meets the requirements of the State Board of Education.• If agriculture and domestic science are taken in the third year, this course will also satisfy the requirements of the State Board with reference to appropriations for these subjects.• If two units in a foreign language are included in the electives, the course will be satisfactory for admission to most colleges.”• Satisfactory rhetoricals are required of all students.” (Students were required to demonstrate mastery over a variety of writing skills and styles.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225394463.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School senior class of 1913. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School senior class of 1913. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Mahree Hamilton, Marie Chamberlain, Grace Houston, and Anna Shields fulfilled graduation goals as the senior class of 1913.Later, in part 10 of this history, I’ll share high school course work schedules for college bound and non-college bound seniors. Students who satisfactorily completed that course work had skills to achieve any number of goals. Combining the district’s expected rigor with family expectations that sub-adult children contribute to family economies helps present day readers understand why graduating classes were small. Not every young person could devote the necessary time to meeting course requirements.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

MADORIN: History of Ellis Schools – Part 9

October 21, 1922&nbsp;&nbsp;-&nbsp;&nbsp;September 18, 2023

Margaret Gisler Thibault was born in Brawley, California on October 21, 1922. She had a twin brother, Joe, and brothers Frank and Walt and an older sister Annie. Her parents emigrated from Switzerland at the turn of the century. 

Margaret graduated from Chino High School in 1941. She married Levi Thibault in 1942.

Margaret was a true pioneer woman and when Levi decided to move back to Kansas, she gave up her family and friends to move to a small farm without indoor plumbing. Margaret moved with two little girls, pregnant with her third child and became a farmer’s wife. She learned to plant a large garden, dress chickens, cook for a family of seven, make clothes, repair anything and be active in her church and the lives of her five children !

Margaret is survived by her children, Betty Beatty, Barbara Robinson, Dave and his wife Susan, Tim and his wife Cindy. Her son, Larry, predeceased her in October of 2022. She has ten grandchildren, 16 great children and one great great granddaughter. She was loved and cherished by her family!

To send flowers to the family of Margaret, please&nbsp;<a href="http://clarkgashaw-mortuary.tributestore.com/?oId=29126578&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.837611060.1682956848:GS1.1.1695247469.63.1.1695247501.28.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Margaret Thibault</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695247583413.png" alt="Margaret Thibault" />
 <figcaption>Margaret Thibault</figcaption>
 </figure>October 21, 1922&nbsp;&nbsp;-&nbsp;&nbsp;September 18, 2023Margaret Gisler Thibault was born in Brawley, California on October 21, 1922. She had a twin brother, Joe, and brothers Frank and Walt and an older sister Annie. Her parents emigrated from Switzerland at the turn of the century. Margaret graduated from Chino High School in 1941. She married Levi Thibault in 1942.Margaret was a true pioneer woman and when Levi decided to move back to Kansas, she gave up her family and friends to move to a small farm without indoor plumbing. Margaret moved with two little girls, pregnant with her third child and became a farmer’s wife. She learned to plant a large garden, dress chickens, cook for a family of seven, make clothes, repair anything and be active in her church and the lives of her five children !Margaret is survived by her children, Betty Beatty, Barbara Robinson, Dave and his wife Susan, Tim and his wife Cindy. Her son, Larry, predeceased her in October of 2022. She has ten grandchildren, 16 great children and one great great granddaughter. She was loved and cherished by her family!To send flowers to the family of Margaret, please&nbsp;<a href="http://clarkgashaw-mortuary.tributestore.com/?oId=29126578&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.837611060.1682956848:GS1.1.1695247469.63.1.1695247501.28.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Margaret Thibault

LEOTI — JoAnn Neubauer (Krenzel) passed away peacefully on Friday, September 15, 2023, in Wichita, Kansas.&nbsp; She was 80 years old.

JoAnn was born to Leo H. Krenzel and Frances Appl in Great Bend, Kansas on July 20th, 1943.&nbsp; 

After graduating from Leoti High School in 1961, she married Richard H. Neubauer in September 1964.&nbsp; Together, they briefly set out to California before coming back to southwest Kansas where they started a family in 1967, having three children – Darcie, Theresa, and Jaret Holt.&nbsp; 

JoAnn was a proud employee of the U.S. Postal Service until she retired.&nbsp; While she appreciated most all sports, she was a particular fan of Chiefs football and KU basketball and was always quick to make sure her family was kept up to date on the latest sports news.&nbsp; She adored Elvis and loved shopping…especially at Target.&nbsp; Her ability to make the finest chocolate pie and brownies in all of southwest Kansas could not be overstated.

She is preceded in death by her parents and survived by her children and their spouses – Darcie and Dan Howk of Parker, CO, Theresa &amp; Dave Whatley of Goddard, KS, and Jaret and Shawnee Neubauer of Longmont, CO, as well as her sister Leola “Aunt Ole” Owens of Leoti, KS and two nephews – Perry (and Bonnie) Owens of Minneapolis, KS and Cole (and Glenda) Owens of Garden City, KS.&nbsp; JoAnn was blessed to be a grandmother to four grandchildren – Megan, Darrell (and Kimmy), Josh, and Jurnee and great-grandmother to four more – Meela, Nash, Ameera, and Cory. &nbsp;

Memorial service will be held on October 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Leoti.&nbsp; Interment will follow at the Leoti Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the JoAnn Neubauer Fund, c/o Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, P.O. Box 161, Leoti, KS 67861.

<h2>JoAnn Neubauer</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695226551120.jpeg" alt="JoAnn Neubauer" />
 <figcaption>JoAnn Neubauer</figcaption>
 </figure>July 20, 1943 - September 15, 2023LEOTI — JoAnn Neubauer (Krenzel) passed away peacefully on Friday, September 15, 2023, in Wichita, Kansas.&nbsp; She was 80 years old.JoAnn was born to Leo H. Krenzel and Frances Appl in Great Bend, Kansas on July 20th, 1943.&nbsp; After graduating from Leoti High School in 1961, she married Richard H. Neubauer in September 1964.&nbsp; Together, they briefly set out to California before coming back to southwest Kansas where they started a family in 1967, having three children – Darcie, Theresa, and Jaret Holt.&nbsp; JoAnn was a proud employee of the U.S. Postal Service until she retired.&nbsp; While she appreciated most all sports, she was a particular fan of Chiefs football and KU basketball and was always quick to make sure her family was kept up to date on the latest sports news.&nbsp; She adored Elvis and loved shopping…especially at Target.&nbsp; Her ability to make the finest chocolate pie and brownies in all of southwest Kansas could not be overstated.She is preceded in death by her parents and survived by her children and their spouses – Darcie and Dan Howk of Parker, CO, Theresa &amp; Dave Whatley of Goddard, KS, and Jaret and Shawnee Neubauer of Longmont, CO, as well as her sister Leola “Aunt Ole” Owens of Leoti, KS and two nephews – Perry (and Bonnie) Owens of Minneapolis, KS and Cole (and Glenda) Owens of Garden City, KS.&nbsp; JoAnn was blessed to be a grandmother to four grandchildren – Megan, Darrell (and Kimmy), Josh, and Jurnee and great-grandmother to four more – Meela, Nash, Ameera, and Cory. &nbsp;Memorial service will be held on October 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Leoti.&nbsp; Interment will follow at the Leoti Cemetery.Memorials may be given to the JoAnn Neubauer Fund, c/o Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, P.O. Box 161, Leoti, KS 67861.

JoAnn Neubauer

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Each year, the Governor’s Council on Wellness&nbsp;(previously the Governor's Council on Fitness)&nbsp;recognizes one exceptional individual and one remarkable organization in Kansas who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting health, fitness and wellness in our communities.

Nominees for the 2024 Health Champion Award can come from diverse backgrounds – from health care professionals and educators to community leaders and volunteers. The award highlights outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly impacted health awareness, disease prevention and overall well-being within our state.

“We are excited to review this year’s nominations and see all the great work being done throughout our state,” said&nbsp;Jody Hoener, awards committee chair. “We encourage everyone to nominate the Health Champions in their communities.”

The nomination process is simple and can be completed online. The form requires a brief description of the nominee’s accomplishments and how they have positively influenced their community’s health. It also asks some basic questions about the nominee’s contact information so they can be notified if they receive the award.

The deadline to submit the nomination form is October 31, 2023. The winners will be notified via email, and awards will be announced via a press release in late November. &nbsp;

The awards ceremony will take place on&nbsp;Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Community Health Promotion Summit that will be held in Wichita at the WSU Woolsey Center.

To access the nomination form, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnN1cnZleW1vbmtleS5jb20vci9DVDc3UllWP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MzAuODE4ODA5ODEifQ._sr2eeslbmcPi4YHTh1wilbdK4H-nmmt361kl0qJedY/s/1305913542/br/225035695632-l" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CT77RYV</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695223345866.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;Each year, the Governor’s Council on Wellness&nbsp;(previously the Governor's Council on Fitness)&nbsp;recognizes one exceptional individual and one remarkable organization in Kansas who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting health, fitness and wellness in our communities.Nominees for the 2024 Health Champion Award can come from diverse backgrounds – from health care professionals and educators to community leaders and volunteers. The award highlights outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly impacted health awareness, disease prevention and overall well-being within our state.“We are excited to review this year’s nominations and see all the great work being done throughout our state,” said&nbsp;Jody Hoener, awards committee chair. “We encourage everyone to nominate the Health Champions in their communities.”The nomination process is simple and can be completed online. The form requires a brief description of the nominee’s accomplishments and how they have positively influenced their community’s health. It also asks some basic questions about the nominee’s contact information so they can be notified if they receive the award.The deadline to submit the nomination form is October 31, 2023. The winners will be notified via email, and awards will be announced via a press release in late November. &nbsp;The awards ceremony will take place on&nbsp;Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Community Health Promotion Summit that will be held in Wichita at the WSU Woolsey Center.To access the nomination form, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnN1cnZleW1vbmtleS5jb20vci9DVDc3UllWP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MzAuODE4ODA5ODEifQ._sr2eeslbmcPi4YHTh1wilbdK4H-nmmt361kl0qJedY/s/1305913542/br/225035695632-l" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CT77RYV</a>.

Governor’s Council on Wellness opens nominations for 2024 Health Champion Award

Jo Ann Lawrence, 88, passed away on September 19, 2023, at The Villa at Blue Ridge, Columbia, Mo. She was born on October 5, 1934, in Kinsley, Kan., to John William “Jack” and Agnes (Bartlett) Montgomery.

On October 5, 1954, she married Howard Lawrence in Kinsley, Kan. He passed on June 19, 2007.

A former resident of Albert for over 60 years before moving to Columbia in 2015, Jo Ann spent her working years as an RN. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Albert, Kan., then the King Memorial United Methodist Church in Great Bend, Kan. Jo Ann had a servant heart and was dedicated to helping others both personally and professionally. She was an EMT with the Albert Fire Department, and always willing to help organize and work any church event, from soup suppers to soup kitchens. Jo Ann also enjoyed reading, gardening, canning, and sewing.

Survivors include two sons, Brent (Leanna) Lawrence of Columbia, Mo., and Bruce (Judy Demel) Lawrence of Great Bend, Kan.; a daughter, Shirley (Jon) Deege of Larned, Kan.; eight grandchildren, Justin Lawrence, Amanda Lawrence, Stefanie Perret, Coryell Deege, Camelle Deege, Carley Martin, Ari Lawrence, and Nate Lawrence; three great-grandchildren, Kenny Steinborn, Zoie Steinborn and Jaradee Perret; an additional great-grandchild on the way; a sister, Norma (Leonard) Kelly of Auburn, Kan.; and a sister-in-law, Barbara Montgomery.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a daughter, Sue Ann Lawrence; a brother, George Montgomery; and an infant sister.

Visitation will be held from noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 22, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Mark Hornbaker presiding. Interment will follow at Albert Community Cemetery. 

Memorials have been designated to the Albert Fire Department or Sr. Aquinata Penka Nursing Scholarship Fund with Golden Belt Community Foundation, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Jo Ann Lawrence, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/jo-ann-lawrence/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>

<h2>Jo Ann Lawrence, former Albert resident</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695221092014.jpeg" alt="Jo Ann Lawrence" />
 <figcaption>Jo Ann Lawrence</figcaption>
 </figure>October 5, 1934 - September 19, 2023Jo Ann Lawrence, 88, passed away on September 19, 2023, at The Villa at Blue Ridge, Columbia, Mo. She was born on October 5, 1934, in Kinsley, Kan., to John William “Jack” and Agnes (Bartlett) Montgomery.On October 5, 1954, she married Howard Lawrence in Kinsley, Kan. He passed on June 19, 2007.A former resident of Albert for over 60 years before moving to Columbia in 2015, Jo Ann spent her working years as an RN. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Albert, Kan., then the King Memorial United Methodist Church in Great Bend, Kan. Jo Ann had a servant heart and was dedicated to helping others both personally and professionally. She was an EMT with the Albert Fire Department, and always willing to help organize and work any church event, from soup suppers to soup kitchens. Jo Ann also enjoyed reading, gardening, canning, and sewing.Survivors include two sons, Brent (Leanna) Lawrence of Columbia, Mo., and Bruce (Judy Demel) Lawrence of Great Bend, Kan.; a daughter, Shirley (Jon) Deege of Larned, Kan.; eight grandchildren, Justin Lawrence, Amanda Lawrence, Stefanie Perret, Coryell Deege, Camelle Deege, Carley Martin, Ari Lawrence, and Nate Lawrence; three great-grandchildren, Kenny Steinborn, Zoie Steinborn and Jaradee Perret; an additional great-grandchild on the way; a sister, Norma (Leonard) Kelly of Auburn, Kan.; and a sister-in-law, Barbara Montgomery.She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a daughter, Sue Ann Lawrence; a brother, George Montgomery; and an infant sister.Visitation will be held from noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 22, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Mark Hornbaker presiding. Interment will follow at Albert Community Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to the Albert Fire Department or Sr. Aquinata Penka Nursing Scholarship Fund with Golden Belt Community Foundation, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Jo Ann Lawrence, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/jo-ann-lawrence/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>

Jo Ann Lawrence

Michael Glenn Folkerts, 55, passed away September 18, 2023, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kan. He was born October 25, 1967, in Larned, to Glenn and Derinda (Murphy) Folkerts.&nbsp;

A longtime Great Bend resident, growing up on a farm near Timken, Mike worked in the manufacturing industry for many years, specifically in quality control for GBI. &nbsp;

However, he recently discovered and embraced his career passion as a paraprofessional for USD 407 in Russell. 

Mike was known to have a spirited love for all things related to nature, spending any spare time he had at Lake Wilson, Cheyenne Bottoms, Quivira Refuge, and Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, Neb. &nbsp;He was an avid photographer, being able to capture the perfect sunset and any rare bird or wildlife that would happen by. 

Mike also had a keen interest in most sports, but had a life long enthusiasm for the Dallas Cowboys. &nbsp;Above all, Mike cherished time spent with his family and friends.

Survivors include his parents, Glenn and Derinda Folkerts of Great Bend; two daughters, Kyleene Folkerts of Great Bend and Alexis Folkerts of Hays; a sister, Lori Kohls of Great Bend; and nephew Jayce Kohls of Great Bend.

Friends may sign the register book from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, September 24, 2023, with family to receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 25, 2023, at Heartland Community Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Troy Miller presiding. Inurnment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery North. 

Memorials have been designated to the Fort Hays Foundation to benefit the Wetlands at Cheyenne Bottoms, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Michael Glenn Folkerts, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/michael-folkerts/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Michael Glenn Folkerts, Great Bend</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215956460.jpeg" alt="Michael Glenn Folkerts" />
 <figcaption>Michael Glenn Folkerts</figcaption>
 </figure>October 25, 1967 - September 18, 2023Michael Glenn Folkerts, 55, passed away September 18, 2023, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kan. He was born October 25, 1967, in Larned, to Glenn and Derinda (Murphy) Folkerts.&nbsp;A longtime Great Bend resident, growing up on a farm near Timken, Mike worked in the manufacturing industry for many years, specifically in quality control for GBI. &nbsp;However, he recently discovered and embraced his career passion as a paraprofessional for USD 407 in Russell. Mike was known to have a spirited love for all things related to nature, spending any spare time he had at Lake Wilson, Cheyenne Bottoms, Quivira Refuge, and Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, Neb. &nbsp;He was an avid photographer, being able to capture the perfect sunset and any rare bird or wildlife that would happen by. Mike also had a keen interest in most sports, but had a life long enthusiasm for the Dallas Cowboys. &nbsp;Above all, Mike cherished time spent with his family and friends.Survivors include his parents, Glenn and Derinda Folkerts of Great Bend; two daughters, Kyleene Folkerts of Great Bend and Alexis Folkerts of Hays; a sister, Lori Kohls of Great Bend; and nephew Jayce Kohls of Great Bend.Friends may sign the register book from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, September 24, 2023, with family to receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 25, 2023, at Heartland Community Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Troy Miller presiding. Inurnment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery North. Memorials have been designated to the Fort Hays Foundation to benefit the Wetlands at Cheyenne Bottoms, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Michael Glenn Folkerts, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/michael-folkerts/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Michael Glenn Folkerts

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

&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:&nbsp; • Jesse Solorio, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Ashland&nbsp;

&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp; • Roberta Bradbury, Accountant II, Perry&nbsp;

Those celebrating 30 years:&nbsp; &nbsp;•&nbsp;Kenneth Stewart, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;Hill City&nbsp;

Those celebrating 25 years:&nbsp; • Lawrence Sage, Applications Developer III, Topeka • Bradley Stephens, Equipment Operator Senior, Holton &nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Zimmer, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Hays&nbsp;

Those celebrating 20 years:&nbsp; Dominic Escobar, Printing Service Coordinator, Topeka Bonnie Liscek, IT Project Manager, Lawrence&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Yohn, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Greensburg

Those celebrating 15 years: Kyle Halverson, Chief Geologist, Topeka&nbsp; Michael Letterman, Engineering Technician Senior, Chanute&nbsp;

Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp; Steven Cross, Professional Civil Engineer II, Blue Mound Shenee Kendall, Equipment Operator Senior, Murdock William Legge, Assistant Road Team Leader, Lawrence&nbsp; Emily Rowe, Administrative Specialist, Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in October. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:&nbsp; • Jesse Solorio, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Ashland&nbsp; &nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp; • Roberta Bradbury, Accountant II, Perry&nbsp;Those celebrating 30 years:&nbsp; &nbsp;•&nbsp;Kenneth Stewart, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;Hill City&nbsp; Those celebrating 25 years:&nbsp; • Lawrence Sage, Applications Developer III, Topeka • Bradley Stephens, Equipment Operator Senior, Holton &nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Zimmer, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Hays&nbsp; Those celebrating 20 years:&nbsp; Dominic Escobar, Printing Service Coordinator, Topeka Bonnie Liscek, IT Project Manager, Lawrence&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Yohn, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Greensburg Those celebrating 15 years: Kyle Halverson, Chief Geologist, Topeka&nbsp; Michael Letterman, Engineering Technician Senior, Chanute&nbsp; Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp; Steven Cross, Professional Civil Engineer II, Blue Mound Shenee Kendall, Equipment Operator Senior, Murdock William Legge, Assistant Road Team Leader, Lawrence&nbsp; Emily Rowe, Administrative Specialist, Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hays engineer celebrates 30 years with KDOT

 COUNTY—A Kansas teen accused of following a pickup on his motorcycle and firing a shot that killed a Kansas woman on her way home from a high school football game made his first court appearance Monday morning.

<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/norma-williams?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer">Click here to read the</a> online fundraiser for the Williams family.

On Monday, Daryon Boone, 19, was charged with murder in the first degree and criminal discharge of a firearm, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just before 10 p.m. Sept. 1, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 11200 block of East Central Avenue, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Officers arrived on the scene and located 69-year-old Norma Williams of Wichita unconscious and not breathing with a gunshot wound to her upper body.

Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived. Mrs. Williams was transported to a local area hospital where she was pronounced deceased.

During the investigation, officers learned that Mrs. Williams was the front passenger of a 2021 Honda Ridgeline traveling northbound on Greenwich, approaching the eastbound lanes of Kellogg Drive.

When they reached the intersection a group of motorcycles riding eastbound ran the red light and one of the motorcycles driven by Daryon Boone of Wichita struck their vehicle. Following the incident, Boone followed the vehicle, ultimately producing a handgun and shooting into the vehicle, which fatally injured Mrs. Williams.

Police arrested Boone&nbsp; on a requested charge of first-degree murder, criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and aggravated assault.

Boone is scheduled to return to court October 2. His bond was initially set at $500,000. He met the requirement of the bond and has not been in jail since the day following his Sept. 2, arrest, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693841905672.png" alt="Norma Williams was shot and killed on the way home from a Friday night ballgame in Wichita -photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Norma Williams was shot and killed on the way home from a Friday night ballgame in Wichita -photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure> COUNTY—A Kansas teen accused of following a pickup on his motorcycle and firing a shot that killed a Kansas woman on her way home from a high school football game made his first court appearance Monday morning.<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/norma-williams?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer">Click here to read the</a> online fundraiser for the Williams family.On Monday, Daryon Boone, 19, was charged with murder in the first degree and criminal discharge of a firearm, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693791365153.png" alt="Boone-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Boone-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 10 p.m. Sept. 1, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 11200 block of East Central Avenue, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Officers arrived on the scene and located 69-year-old Norma Williams of Wichita unconscious and not breathing with a gunshot wound to her upper body.Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived. Mrs. Williams was transported to a local area hospital where she was pronounced deceased.During the investigation, officers learned that Mrs. Williams was the front passenger of a 2021 Honda Ridgeline traveling northbound on Greenwich, approaching the eastbound lanes of Kellogg Drive.When they reached the intersection a group of motorcycles riding eastbound ran the red light and one of the motorcycles driven by Daryon Boone of Wichita struck their vehicle. Following the incident, Boone followed the vehicle, ultimately producing a handgun and shooting into the vehicle, which fatally injured Mrs. Williams.Police arrested Boone&nbsp; on a requested charge of first-degree murder, criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and aggravated assault.Boone is scheduled to return to court October 2. His bond was initially set at $500,000. He met the requirement of the bond and has not been in jail since the day following his Sept. 2, arrest, according to online jail records.

Teen charged with killing Kan. grandmother remains out of jail

December 25, 1938 ~ September 17, 2023 (age 84)

Shirley Ann (Pfeifer) Schmidt, 84, Catharine, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at her home surrounded by her children. She was born December 25, 1938, on the family farm in Hyacinth to Aloysius A. and Katherine (Horning) Pfeifer. 

She attended Locust Grove for eight years, then St. Mary of the Plains in Dodge City as a boarding student, graduating in 1956.

She married Emery R. Schmidt on October 10, 1959, in Hays. They celebrated 61 years of marriage until his passing on January 15, 2021.

After high school, at the age of 17, she went to St. Anthony’s Hospital to get a job and was trained at the hospital as a certified nurse aide. Her jobs throughout her life consisted as an aid on the floor at the hospital, home health aide, compassionate caregiver in homes, later as a senior companion, mentor for future nurses and as a guest presenter for prospective nurses. After many years of service, she retired in her 70s.

Shirley was an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs. She also enjoyed all the game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, and doing crossword puzzles. Her daily routine throughout life included saying several rosaries every morning, cooking for her family (which she loved), and her farmwife work of assisting Emery on the farm by running for parts on any given day during harvest and providing meals out on the field for all the guys. 

She and Emery spent many occasions getting together with the neighbors having after-harvest parties, card parties (pinochle), planning and putting on community festivities and supported school functions. 

She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, caregiver, and friend. She was a lover of animals and leaves behind a dog, Jake, and a kitty. Shirley was a “giver,” always stood up for others and did not stand for bullying. She knew no stranger. 

In later years, she and her husband enjoyed going to the Golden Q on Sundays. She and her children and their families continued this tradition after his death. She enjoyed her burger and beer up until her death.

She was a member of St. Catherine Catholic Church, the St. Catherine Christian Mothers Altar Society and taught catechism.

She is survived by her son, Greg Schmidt and wife, Pam, Catharine; two daughters, Jackie Jones and husband Tim, Hays and Lisa Stouffer and husband, Allen, Leavenworth; daughter-in-law Ann Schmidt, Catharine; one brother, Verlin Pfeifer, Hill City; three sisters, Mary Vogt and husband Rick, Chicago, IL, Sheila Thompson and husband Tim, Kansas City, and Rebecca Tolemy and husband, David, Chicago, IL; two brothers-in-law Adolph Schmidt and wife, DeAnn and Gerald Schmidt and wife Elaine, all of Hays; three sisters-in-law Rosie Schmidt, Hays, Cora Dortland, Gorham, and Sandy Pfeifer, Covington, PA; 12 grandchildren, Eric (Kelli) Schmidt, Ryan (Jennifer) Schmidt, John (Aubrey) Jones, Rachel (Scott) VonFeldt, Niki (Tony) Smith, Casey (Nathan) Wendel, Erin (Ryan) Sims, Kyle Schmidt, Carly Schmidt (Fiancé Tyler Boling), Shelby Stouffer, Lucas (Megan) Stouffer, and Michael Schmidt; 21 great-grandchildren, Catherine, Evelyn, Sophia, Elon, Mason, and Colby Schmidt, Jace Herbers, Cooper and Georgia Jones, Emma and Julie Smith, Camri, Kaden, and Konnor&nbsp;VonFeldt, Clayton, Tyler and Bennett Wendel, Olivia and Rhett Sims, Emerie and Renlie Stouffer, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her youngest son, Michael A. Schmidt, her parents, two sisters, Lillian and infant sister Theresa, one brother, Patrick Pfeifer, seven brothers-in-law Herbert Schmidt, Wilfred Rome, Ray Dinkel, Everett Dortland, Alfred Schmidt, Elmer Schmidt, and Maynard Evans, and seven sisters-in-law, Esther Schmidt, Francis Schmidt, Cyrilla Evans, Irene Dinkel, Fidelia Rome, Midge Pfeifer, and Ginger Pfeifer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at St. Catherine Catholic Church, Catharine. Burial will follow in St. Catherine Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 on Wednesday and from 8:30 a.m. until 9:30 on Thursday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A St. Catherine Christian Mothers Altar Society rosary will be at 6:00 p.m. followed by a vigil service at 6:30, all on Wednesday at the funeral home. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested and made payable to St. Catherine Church or St. Catherine Cemetery Fund. 

Condolences and memories of Shirley can be sent to the family at www.haysmemorial.com.

<h2>Shirley Schmidt, Catherine</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695129222121.jpeg" alt="Shirley Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Shirley Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>December 25, 1938 ~ September 17, 2023 (age 84)Shirley Ann (Pfeifer) SchmidtShirley Ann (Pfeifer) Schmidt, 84, Catharine, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at her home surrounded by her children. She was born December 25, 1938, on the family farm in Hyacinth to Aloysius A. and Katherine (Horning) Pfeifer. She attended Locust Grove for eight years, then St. Mary of the Plains in Dodge City as a boarding student, graduating in 1956.She married Emery R. Schmidt on October 10, 1959, in Hays. They celebrated 61 years of marriage until his passing on January 15, 2021.After high school, at the age of 17, she went to St. Anthony’s Hospital to get a job and was trained at the hospital as a certified nurse aide. Her jobs throughout her life consisted as an aid on the floor at the hospital, home health aide, compassionate caregiver in homes, later as a senior companion, mentor for future nurses and as a guest presenter for prospective nurses. After many years of service, she retired in her 70s.Shirley was an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs. She also enjoyed all the game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, and doing crossword puzzles. Her daily routine throughout life included saying several rosaries every morning, cooking for her family (which she loved), and her farmwife work of assisting Emery on the farm by running for parts on any given day during harvest and providing meals out on the field for all the guys. She and Emery spent many occasions getting together with the neighbors having after-harvest parties, card parties (pinochle), planning and putting on community festivities and supported school functions. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, caregiver, and friend. She was a lover of animals and leaves behind a dog, Jake, and a kitty. Shirley was a “giver,” always stood up for others and did not stand for bullying. She knew no stranger. In later years, she and her husband enjoyed going to the Golden Q on Sundays. She and her children and their families continued this tradition after his death. She enjoyed her burger and beer up until her death.She was a member of St. Catherine Catholic Church, the St. Catherine Christian Mothers Altar Society and taught catechism.She is survived by her son, Greg Schmidt and wife, Pam, Catharine; two daughters, Jackie Jones and husband Tim, Hays and Lisa Stouffer and husband, Allen, Leavenworth; daughter-in-law Ann Schmidt, Catharine; one brother, Verlin Pfeifer, Hill City; three sisters, Mary Vogt and husband Rick, Chicago, IL, Sheila Thompson and husband Tim, Kansas City, and Rebecca Tolemy and husband, David, Chicago, IL; two brothers-in-law Adolph Schmidt and wife, DeAnn and Gerald Schmidt and wife Elaine, all of Hays; three sisters-in-law Rosie Schmidt, Hays, Cora Dortland, Gorham, and Sandy Pfeifer, Covington, PA; 12 grandchildren, Eric (Kelli) Schmidt, Ryan (Jennifer) Schmidt, John (Aubrey) Jones, Rachel (Scott) VonFeldt, Niki (Tony) Smith, Casey (Nathan) Wendel, Erin (Ryan) Sims, Kyle Schmidt, Carly Schmidt (Fiancé Tyler Boling), Shelby Stouffer, Lucas (Megan) Stouffer, and Michael Schmidt; 21 great-grandchildren, Catherine, Evelyn, Sophia, Elon, Mason, and Colby Schmidt, Jace Herbers, Cooper and Georgia Jones, Emma and Julie Smith, Camri, Kaden, and Konnor&nbsp;VonFeldt, Clayton, Tyler and Bennett Wendel, Olivia and Rhett Sims, Emerie and Renlie Stouffer, along with numerous nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her husband, her youngest son, Michael A. Schmidt, her parents, two sisters, Lillian and infant sister Theresa, one brother, Patrick Pfeifer, seven brothers-in-law Herbert Schmidt, Wilfred Rome, Ray Dinkel, Everett Dortland, Alfred Schmidt, Elmer Schmidt, and Maynard Evans, and seven sisters-in-law, Esther Schmidt, Francis Schmidt, Cyrilla Evans, Irene Dinkel, Fidelia Rome, Midge Pfeifer, and Ginger Pfeifer.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at St. Catherine Catholic Church, Catharine. Burial will follow in St. Catherine Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 on Wednesday and from 8:30 a.m. until 9:30 on Thursday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A St. Catherine Christian Mothers Altar Society rosary will be at 6:00 p.m. followed by a vigil service at 6:30, all on Wednesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested and made payable to St. Catherine Church or St. Catherine Cemetery Fund. Condolences and memories of Shirley can be sent to the family at www.haysmemorial.com.

Shirley Schmidt

Jana’s Campaign, a nationally recognized organization dedicated to preventing gender and relationship violence, is excited to share their annual fundraising event, Empty Place at the Table gala, is scheduled for Saturday, October 7 at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays. Join Jana’s Campaign for their annual community gathering that unites supporters and friends as they commemorate 15 years of dedicated work in honor of Jana Lynne Mackey.

&nbsp;Throughout the night Jana’s Campaign will reflect on their achievements in constructing a safer and more compassionate world. In honor of Mackey and the countless survivors of gender-based violence, Jana’s Campaign’s mission is to deliver engaging, evidence-based educational programs that prevent domestic and dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.

This year's gala promises a unique blend of in-person experiences and the excitement of live online streaming for those who cannot attend in-person.&nbsp;

Ticket holders will receive comprehensive event details about attending or participating virtually, including bidding on items online. The evening will feature a vibrant cocktail hour, a delicious dinner, live entertainment, a raffle, and both silent and live auctions. Businesses from the local community and across the state have generously donated items and experiences to support this event.

Jana’s Campaign is proud to celebrate its impact on nearly 90,000 students from 652 middle and high schools across ten states.

Kaiti Blackburn, executive director of Jana’s Campaign, shared, “Empty Place at the Table grows year after year, thanks to the incredible support from the Hays community and beyond. With this backing, we are able to empower tens of thousands of preteens, teens, and young adults, as well as citizens, working diligently to prevent violent and unhealthy relationship behaviors before they take root.”

&nbsp;Join Jana’s Campaign for a memorable evening, as they illuminate a pathway of change and continue to make a profound impact, not only in the Hays community, but also in communities across the nation. To purchase tickets and learn more about this event, please visit <a href="https://www.janascampaign.org/">www.janascampaign.org</a>.

Jana’s Campaign is a Hays-based national education and violence prevention organization with the single mission of reducing gender and relationship violence. In honor of the late Jana Mackey, a 25-year old law student at the University of Kansas who lost her life to violence perpetrated by an ex-boyfriend in 2008, and other victims and survivors of gender and relationship violence, Jana’s Campaign delivers educational programs that prevent domestic and dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578075822734.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedJana’s Campaign, a nationally recognized organization dedicated to preventing gender and relationship violence, is excited to share their annual fundraising event, Empty Place at the Table gala, is scheduled for Saturday, October 7 at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays. Join Jana’s Campaign for their annual community gathering that unites supporters and friends as they commemorate 15 years of dedicated work in honor of Jana Lynne Mackey.&nbsp;Throughout the night Jana’s Campaign will reflect on their achievements in constructing a safer and more compassionate world. In honor of Mackey and the countless survivors of gender-based violence, Jana’s Campaign’s mission is to deliver engaging, evidence-based educational programs that prevent domestic and dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694794607663.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This year's gala promises a unique blend of in-person experiences and the excitement of live online streaming for those who cannot attend in-person.&nbsp;Ticket holders will receive comprehensive event details about attending or participating virtually, including bidding on items online. The evening will feature a vibrant cocktail hour, a delicious dinner, live entertainment, a raffle, and both silent and live auctions. Businesses from the local community and across the state have generously donated items and experiences to support this event.Jana’s Campaign is proud to celebrate its impact on nearly 90,000 students from 652 middle and high schools across ten states.Kaiti Blackburn, executive director of Jana’s Campaign, shared, “Empty Place at the Table grows year after year, thanks to the incredible support from the Hays community and beyond. With this backing, we are able to empower tens of thousands of preteens, teens, and young adults, as well as citizens, working diligently to prevent violent and unhealthy relationship behaviors before they take root.”&nbsp;Join Jana’s Campaign for a memorable evening, as they illuminate a pathway of change and continue to make a profound impact, not only in the Hays community, but also in communities across the nation. To purchase tickets and learn more about this event, please visit <a href="https://www.janascampaign.org/">www.janascampaign.org</a>.Jana’s Campaign is a Hays-based national education and violence prevention organization with the single mission of reducing gender and relationship violence. In honor of the late Jana Mackey, a 25-year old law student at the University of Kansas who lost her life to violence perpetrated by an ex-boyfriend in 2008, and other victims and survivors of gender and relationship violence, Jana’s Campaign delivers educational programs that prevent domestic and dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.&nbsp;

15 years of impact: Jana’s Campaign presents annual Empty Place at the Table gala 

Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas offers one-on-one, non-biased counseling and assistance to individuals and families either getting ready to sign up for Medicare, or those who already have Medicare.

Medicare Open Enrollment is from October 15-December 7. During this time period you can:

· Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. · Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. · Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage. · Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. · Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another Medicare drug plan. · Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely.

Volunteer counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, and other health insurance issues that concern Kansans. The Senior Health Insurance counselors are not affiliated with the insurance industry. 

If you are new to Medicare or have questions about Medicare or Medicare-related issues, the Senior Health Insurance counselors at the Cottonwood Extension office are taking one-on-one appointments for October. Call 620-793-1910 to learn more.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas offers one-on-one, non-biased counseling and assistance to individuals and families either getting ready to sign up for Medicare, or those who already have Medicare.Medicare Open EnrollmentMedicare Open Enrollment is from October 15-December 7. During this time period you can:· Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. · Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. · Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage. · Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. · Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another Medicare drug plan. · Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely. Volunteer counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, and other health insurance issues that concern Kansans. The Senior Health Insurance counselors are not affiliated with the insurance industry. If you are new to Medicare or have questions about Medicare or Medicare-related issues, the Senior Health Insurance counselors at the Cottonwood Extension office are taking one-on-one appointments for October. Call 620-793-1910 to learn more.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.