TOPEKA -- Gov. Kathleen Sebelius recently announced her appointment of Gerald Lauber to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission. The seven-member, bipartisan commission works closely with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, reviewing and approving regulations to conserve and enhance Kansas' wildlife and provide Kansans with opportunities to enjoy of our state's natural resources.

"Gerald has an excellent reputation as a conservationist," Sebelius said. "Being a hunter and fisherman, he has a true appreciation of our resources and will make a good addition to the Commission."

Lauber said he developed a passion for hunting and fishing as a kid growing up on the family farm. "I feel I was lucky growing up in Kansas because it offered so many outdoor opportunities, and it offers even more now. I think my background will help me make a positive contribution to the Commission."
These days, Lauber says crappie fishing is his favorite outdoor pastime, and while he hunted squirrels all the time as a kid, now he primarily hunts deer and turkey. A squirrel was the first game he ever took with his shotgun.

The commercialization of big game hunting concerns Lauber, as well as the availability of public hunting land.

Currently, Lauber is the president and CEO of the Kaw Valley State Bank and Trust Company in Topeka. He began working at the bank as an assistant vice president in 1974, after graduating from Washburn University. Lauber is a member of Quail Unlimited and National Wild Turkey Federation.
-30-