Welcome to another edition of Marsh Musings. Today, I will not be writing about critters or anything interesting going on at Cheyenne Bottoms. I write this week’s column in honor of a very special person who has had an incredibly large impact on my life. Today’s column is dedicated to none other than my photography partner in crime, Dr. Dan Witt.

My wife and I moved to Kansas 15 months ago, and moving across several states to the middle of Kansas was never in our grand scheme of things. However, the beauty of the area, the career possibilities, and most importantly, the people, sold us on the area. One of the first people I met was Dr. Witt. I was instantly impressed with the way he carried himself and how he took pictures in the Bottoms every morning simply for the betterment of the KWEC, Friends of Cheyenne Bottoms, Wetlands and Wildlife Scenic Byway, and many other non-for-profit organizations. Dr. Witt has been an important part of my life here in Kansas ever since.

Beginning November 1st, Dr. Witt will be retiring from Central Kansas Urology after serving there for 21 years. He has dedicated himself to medicine for over 38 years and has given his "dead-level best" to each and every patient that came through his office doors. His "give your all and do your best" mindset has truly played out in all aspects of his life. In the words of Dr. Witt, "We should all try to make each other a little bit better." I am living proof of his saying because my life in Kansas has definitely been a lot better having him in it.

One could not ask for a better friend or role model than Dr. Witt. He is the kind of guy that would do anything for a friend, is immensely generous, has a heart of gold, and because of these traits, has positively impacted thousands of lives through his career and personal life. He has taught me a great deal about myself, my life, my career, and of course, photography. He has been the best friend anyone could ask for and my best memories of Kansas all involve him.

I truly admire and look up to Dr. Witt and hope he thoroughly enjoys life to the fullest as he travels the world, continues hunting and fishing, and puts more time into his photography of wildlife and nature’s true beauty. I look forward to our many post retirement adventures in the Bottoms and the future Marsh Musings columns to follow. You truly "make us all a little bit better."

Happy retirement Dr. Witt!!!

Until next time!