By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A Fort Hays State University student has received a grant from the Heartland Community to paint a mural depicting native grasses, wildflowers and insects in downtown Hays.

The mural will be on the east side of the Andre Tax and Accounting building, 117 E. 10th St. Once it is complete, you should be able to view it from the downtown pavilion.

PJ Stauffer, 23, is a graduate student in art at FHSU, studying drawing.

Stauffer was a member of the Creative Arts Society at FHSU during his undergraduate studies. The group had the idea for a mural of native grasses, but the project never got off the ground because of the pandemic.

Stauffer is from a rural area of Glen Elder. He grew up on a farm and is familiar with native prairie scapes.

"I have always liked bugs and creatures and stuff, and flowers are easy for me to do because I find them beautiful," Stauffer said.

Stauffer painted three murals at his high school in Beloit. Two were landscapes, and one was an abstract painting with a musical theme.

The mural will be interactive. Visitors will be able to scan a QR code to see a list of insects, flowers and grasses depicted in it.

The mural will depict native grasses such as windmill grass, bluestem, Indian grass, switchgrass and side oats.

Some of the flowers will include bundle flower, coreopsis, Maximilian sunflower and cornflower.

Some insects will include silk moths, velvet ants, blacktail field cricket, mantis, bumblebees, rolly pollies,  parasitic wasps, tiger beetles and orb weavers.&nbsp;

"A lot of people say Kansas is just a lot of dead grass," Stauffer said. "It's not dead. There's a lot of colors out there, actually."

"It really bothers me that people say Kansas is ugly," he said.

He said he wanted to magnify the plants and insects so people would feel they were the same size as the landscape and insects.

"It's stuff that's very small, and we tend to overlook it, but when it's the same size as you, I think that's cool," Stauffer said.

He worked with the FHSU biology department to identify the wildlife, flora and fauna to be included in the mural.

"I came forward with a list of everything I wanted to put in it, and some are domestic. I learned the difference between things that grow here now very well because we brought them here versus stuff that has been here since before we got here," Stauffer said.

The Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics at FHSU and the building owner also contributed funds to the project.

Stauffer said he hopes to start on the mural as soon as possible and complete the painting by mid-August.

Stauffer will continue to work on his graduate degree at FHSU in the fall. In addition to continuing to create art, he hopes to teach when he finishes graduate school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720644215037.jpeg" alt="Conceptual drawing of a new native prairie mural set to be painted on the building at 117 E. 1oth in downtown Hays. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of a new native prairie mural set to be painted on the building at 117 E. 1oth in downtown Hays. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Fort Hays State University student has received a grant from the Heartland Community to paint a mural depicting native grasses, wildflowers and insects in downtown Hays.The mural will be on the east side of the Andre Tax and Accounting building, 117 E. 10th St. Once it is complete, you should be able to view it from the downtown pavilion.PJ Stauffer, 23, is a graduate student in art at FHSU, studying drawing.Stauffer was a member of the Creative Arts Society at FHSU during his undergraduate studies. The group had the idea for a mural of native grasses, but the project never got off the ground because of the pandemic.Stauffer is from a rural area of Glen Elder. He grew up on a farm and is familiar with native prairie scapes."I have always liked bugs and creatures and stuff, and flowers are easy for me to do because I find them beautiful," Stauffer said.Stauffer painted three murals at his high school in Beloit. Two were landscapes, and one was an abstract painting with a musical theme.The mural will be interactive. Visitors will be able to scan a QR code to see a list of insects, flowers and grasses depicted in it.The mural will depict native grasses such as windmill grass, bluestem, Indian grass, switchgrass and side oats.Some of the flowers will include bundle flower, coreopsis, Maximilian sunflower and cornflower.Some insects will include silk moths, velvet ants, blacktail field cricket, mantis, bumblebees, rolly pollies, parasitic wasps, tiger beetles and orb weavers.&nbsp;"A lot of people say Kansas is just a lot of dead grass," Stauffer said. "It's not dead. There's a lot of colors out there, actually.""It really bothers me that people say Kansas is ugly," he said.He said he wanted to magnify the plants and insects so people would feel they were the same size as the landscape and insects."It's stuff that's very small, and we tend to overlook it, but when it's the same size as you, I think that's cool," Stauffer said.He worked with the FHSU biology department to identify the wildlife, flora and fauna to be included in the mural."I came forward with a list of everything I wanted to put in it, and some are domestic. I learned the difference between things that grow here now very well because we brought them here versus stuff that has been here since before we got here," Stauffer said.The Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics at FHSU and the building owner also contributed funds to the project.Stauffer said he hopes to start on the mural as soon as possible and complete the painting by mid-August.Stauffer will continue to work on his graduate degree at FHSU in the fall. In addition to continuing to create art, he hopes to teach when he finishes graduate school.

FHSU to create interactive prairie mural in downtown Hays

Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling would like to remind the residents of Ellis County that the last day to register to vote for the August Primary election is Tuesday, July 16. If you have changed your name or address, a new voter registration with updated information will need to be filled out at the County Clerk’s office or online at voterregistration.pdf<a href="http://voterregistration.pdf"></a> (<a href="http://kssos.org">kssos.org</a>)

If you would like to have an advance mail ballot, contact my office at 785-628-9410 to have an application mailed to you, fill out an application online at AV1.pdf (<a href="http://AV1.pdf">ks.gov</a>) or stop by my office at 718 Main Street. Advance mail ballots will be mailed July 17. The last day to request an advance mail ballot is July 30. Advance mail ballots can be returned by mail, dropped off at my office at 718 Main, or use the ballot drop box, which is conveniently located in the alley at 718 Main.

Early voting dates and times will be Monday, July 22, through noon on Monday, Aug. 5. Hours will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dreiling is now offering Saturday early voting on Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Election Day will be at your regular polling location from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you are unsure of your polling location, please call the election office at 785-628-9410.

If you would like to receive upcoming election information news by text and/or email, please fill out an application at the Clerk’s office or at Ellis County, KS - Official Website | Official Website, print it off and return it to the Clerk’s office.

If you have any questions about the Aug. 5 election, please call Dreiling’s office at 785-628-9410.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646335925302.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County ClerkEllis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling would like to remind the residents of Ellis County that the last day to register to vote for the August Primary election is Tuesday, July 16. If you have changed your name or address, a new voter registration with updated information will need to be filled out at the County Clerk’s office or online at voterregistration.pdf<a href="http://voterregistration.pdf"></a> (<a href="http://kssos.org">kssos.org</a>)If you would like to have an advance mail ballot, contact my office at 785-628-9410 to have an application mailed to you, fill out an application online at AV1.pdf (<a href="http://AV1.pdf">ks.gov</a>) or stop by my office at 718 Main Street. Advance mail ballots will be mailed July 17. The last day to request an advance mail ballot is July 30. Advance mail ballots can be returned by mail, dropped off at my office at 718 Main, or use the ballot drop box, which is conveniently located in the alley at 718 Main.Early voting dates and times will be Monday, July 22, through noon on Monday, Aug. 5. Hours will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dreiling is now offering Saturday early voting on Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Election Day will be at your regular polling location from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you are unsure of your polling location, please call the election office at 785-628-9410.If you would like to receive upcoming election information news by text and/or email, please fill out an application at the Clerk’s office or at Ellis County, KS - Official Website | Official Website, print it off and return it to the Clerk’s office.If you have any questions about the Aug. 5 election, please call Dreiling’s office at 785-628-9410.

Deadline to register to vote for primary is Tuesday

I am writing to share my thoughts and concerns regarding the newly launched "Love, Kansas" initiative. While this campaign, led by Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, is a commendable effort to attract former Kansans and new families to our state, it fails to address significant challenges faced by current residents, particularly those striving to purchase homes and establish deeper roots within our communities.

The "Love, Kansas" campaign aims to highlight Kansas as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family by focusing on our state’s abundant job opportunities, high quality of life, excellent education system, and affordable communities. The initiative's emphasis on "boomerangs"—individuals with previous ties to the state—underscores a strategic effort to bring back those who once called Kansas home. While this approach is admirable, it inadvertently overlooks the pressing issues faced by many Kansans who are already here.

Many young adults in Kansas struggle to transition from renters to homeowners. Despite having higher education and stable employment, the high cost of housing creates a substantial barrier to homeownership. This demographic is critical to the future of our state, yet they face significant obstacles in establishing financial stability and building lasting ties to their communities.

To address these concerns, I propose that the "Love, Kansas" initiative be expanded to include resources and opportunities for current residents. Providing financial incentives and support for existing Kansans to purchase homes would encourage them to stay and continue contributing to our State's success. Programs similar to the Rural Opportunity Zone (ROZ) initiative, but inclusive of those already residing in these zones, could provide the much-needed stability and economic support for our current population. By offering such support, we can retain the talent and dedication of those who have already chosen Kansas as their home.

A small town’s approach to businesses can be a deciding factor for young people on whether to live there or not. New and small businesses are essential to the economy of rural communities. For young entrepreneurs, the right ingredients can make a big difference to start or grow a business—and for all who live there, the success of businesses is critical to keeping the community thriving. Perhaps the greatest of these ingredients is the openness to new ideas. Removing barriers and reducing friction for business owners is the goal.

Like all other challenges, the approach will need to be systemic and involve many aspects of a community—not just state and local governments, but housing, child care, local attitudes, and more. Rural Kansas should find ways to build on the ecosystem infrastructure that NetWork Kansas has established. A benefit of the NetWork Kansas model is that it pairs local control of funding decisions with statewide matching funds. Expanding outreach efforts would be a solid action that could make a difference.

Rural communities and counties could consider redirecting tax dollars from larger established businesses to supporting entrepreneurs. They could create locally directed and funded angel investment capital programs, pair existing business owners with new entrepreneurs for mentorship and coaching, view restoration of buildings as "site development" for entrepreneurs rather than site development for traditional recruitment, waive property taxes for any entrepreneur starting a new business in a currently vacant building, and connect existing K-12 efforts with the entrepreneurial ecosystem in a community/entrepreneurship internship model. Counties could provide additional incentives and capital to entrepreneurs planning to start a business in needed sectors such as child care, building trades, health care, tech, restaurants, and culture.

Starting in high school, create and nurture this mindset. Help new entrepreneurs know where to find support locally or in the network, and know about shared services and platforms for commerce. A continued emphasis on career and technical education, particularly building trades and tech jobs, could be emphasized as not only a career but a service to rural communities.

Local communities can take a number of approaches both big and small to support businesses. They could establish local revolving loans funds to assist with gap financing; offer professional consulting services (accounting, legal, business plan development, art, etc.) for entrepreneurs; celebrate, feature, and drive traffic to local businesses; host formal welcoming events/ribbon-cutting ceremonies; work with existing businesses on transition plans and needs; assist in accessing regional, state, and federal resources; share ideas and concepts working in other places; and serve as a connector within and outside of the community.

State agencies and nonprofit organizations could connect businesses in rural communities through their networks or to other resources for business planning or marketing. They might be particularly helpful for niche businesses and start-ups that fall outside a traditional model. One idea for either the public or private sector to consider is to create pools of specialists—like accountants or marketers—for a small rural business to access as a shared resource. State agencies are also skilled at creating “one-stop shops” for current issues affecting Kansas business owners once common stumbling blocks are identified. These portals can reduce the friction of obtaining operating licenses and cut down on surprises as a business gets ready to open. Industry organizations can also help with these education efforts.

Retention of our current residents is just as crucial as attracting new ones. By supporting those who are already here, we can ensure they feel valued and are given the opportunities they need to thrive. This approach not only strengthens our communities but also builds a compelling case for others to join a state that takes care of its own. Kansas has a unique opportunity to set an example by prioritizing the well-being of its current residents while simultaneously attracting new talent.

Thank you for considering this perspective. By addressing the needs of both current and prospective Kansans, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future for our state. I hope that the leaders of the "Love, Kansas" campaign will take these concerns into account and work towards a more balanced approach that supports all residents of our great state.

I am writing to share my thoughts and concerns regarding the newly launched "Love, Kansas" initiative. While this campaign, led by Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, is a commendable effort to attract former Kansans and new families to our state, it fails to address significant challenges faced by current residents, particularly those striving to purchase homes and establish deeper roots within our communities.The "Love, Kansas" campaign aims to highlight Kansas as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family by focusing on our state’s abundant job opportunities, high quality of life, excellent education system, and affordable communities. The initiative's emphasis on "boomerangs"—individuals with previous ties to the state—underscores a strategic effort to bring back those who once called Kansas home. While this approach is admirable, it inadvertently overlooks the pressing issues faced by many Kansans who are already here.Many young adults in Kansas struggle to transition from renters to homeowners. Despite having higher education and stable employment, the high cost of housing creates a substantial barrier to homeownership. This demographic is critical to the future of our state, yet they face significant obstacles in establishing financial stability and building lasting ties to their communities.To address these concerns, I propose that the "Love, Kansas" initiative be expanded to include resources and opportunities for current residents. Providing financial incentives and support for existing Kansans to purchase homes would encourage them to stay and continue contributing to our State's success. Programs similar to the Rural Opportunity Zone (ROZ) initiative, but inclusive of those already residing in these zones, could provide the much-needed stability and economic support for our current population. By offering such support, we can retain the talent and dedication of those who have already chosen Kansas as their home.A small town’s approach to businesses can be a deciding factor for young people on whether to live there or not. New and small businesses are essential to the economy of rural communities. For young entrepreneurs, the right ingredients can make a big difference to start or grow a business—and for all who live there, the success of businesses is critical to keeping the community thriving. Perhaps the greatest of these ingredients is the openness to new ideas. Removing barriers and reducing friction for business owners is the goal.Like all other challenges, the approach will need to be systemic and involve many aspects of a community—not just state and local governments, but housing, child care, local attitudes, and more. Rural Kansas should find ways to build on the ecosystem infrastructure that NetWork Kansas has established. A benefit of the NetWork Kansas model is that it pairs local control of funding decisions with statewide matching funds. Expanding outreach efforts would be a solid action that could make a difference.Rural communities and counties could consider redirecting tax dollars from larger established businesses to supporting entrepreneurs. They could create locally directed and funded angel investment capital programs, pair existing business owners with new entrepreneurs for mentorship and coaching, view restoration of buildings as "site development" for entrepreneurs rather than site development for traditional recruitment, waive property taxes for any entrepreneur starting a new business in a currently vacant building, and connect existing K-12 efforts with the entrepreneurial ecosystem in a community/entrepreneurship internship model. Counties could provide additional incentives and capital to entrepreneurs planning to start a business in needed sectors such as child care, building trades, health care, tech, restaurants, and culture.Starting in high school, create and nurture this mindset. Help new entrepreneurs know where to find support locally or in the network, and know about shared services and platforms for commerce. A continued emphasis on career and technical education, particularly building trades and tech jobs, could be emphasized as not only a career but a service to rural communities.Local communities can take a number of approaches both big and small to support businesses. They could establish local revolving loans funds to assist with gap financing; offer professional consulting services (accounting, legal, business plan development, art, etc.) for entrepreneurs; celebrate, feature, and drive traffic to local businesses; host formal welcoming events/ribbon-cutting ceremonies; work with existing businesses on transition plans and needs; assist in accessing regional, state, and federal resources; share ideas and concepts working in other places; and serve as a connector within and outside of the community.State agencies and nonprofit organizations could connect businesses in rural communities through their networks or to other resources for business planning or marketing. They might be particularly helpful for niche businesses and start-ups that fall outside a traditional model. One idea for either the public or private sector to consider is to create pools of specialists—like accountants or marketers—for a small rural business to access as a shared resource. State agencies are also skilled at creating “one-stop shops” for current issues affecting Kansas business owners once common stumbling blocks are identified. These portals can reduce the friction of obtaining operating licenses and cut down on surprises as a business gets ready to open. Industry organizations can also help with these education efforts.Retention of our current residents is just as crucial as attracting new ones. By supporting those who are already here, we can ensure they feel valued and are given the opportunities they need to thrive. This approach not only strengthens our communities but also builds a compelling case for others to join a state that takes care of its own. Kansas has a unique opportunity to set an example by prioritizing the well-being of its current residents while simultaneously attracting new talent.Thank you for considering this perspective. By addressing the needs of both current and prospective Kansans, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future for our state. I hope that the leaders of the "Love, Kansas" campaign will take these concerns into account and work towards a more balanced approach that supports all residents of our great state.Peacefully,&nbsp;John Brown

Letter to the Editor: Thoughts on 'Love, Kansas'

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Have you ever been curious about canning meat? Is it safe? How do I do it safely? Why would I want to can meat?

Canning is a great method to preserve and extend shelf life for many types of foods, including meat products. Using safe preparation and storage practices allows for anyone to store nutritious, high-quality protein.

Before joining K-State Research and Extension I had done a little canning but mostly just trying to preserve garden produce. After taking a professional development canning class specifically for Extension Agents, I learned even more about canning and also how to can meat. I found canning meat a great skill to have in the kitchen. Why? You may ask…..

Well, canning meat can be an easy way to get supper on the table. As a busy, working wife and mother I’m often struggling at the end of the day to come up with yet another meal my family will eat. I’m tired and hungry. I need something fast and easy! When you have canned meat on the shelf, all you have to do is open the can, warm it up and add some vegetables or grains to make a fast meal.

Canning meat can also be healthy. Sometimes, when you purchase canned meat there maybe be unwanted ingredients. When you preserve the meat yourself you know exactly what is in there and can control the amount of ingredients you want in your food, for example, the amount of salt.

When preserving meat you can use inexpensive cuts of meat and they turn out tender and tasty! Canning can be a way to save money on your animal-based protein. Yes, there is some expense if needing to purchase equipment but hopefully those will be one-time expense that you can use for many years.

Next, canning may be another way to store food. Are you running out of freezer space? This can be a great way to free up that space by canning your meat.

Do you hunt or fish? You can also can game meat and fish! Canning wild game and fish is another way to preserve your protein well past the hunting and fishing season.

Finally, making it a social affair and doing with other people such as family and friends can make the work turn into a fun day. This can also help to minimize costs if you are able to preserve food with others. I always say, “Canning is like exercise, it is much more fun doing with others!”

If you are curious and would like to learn more, Karen Blakeslee, K-State Research and Extension Rapid Response Coordinator and food scientist will be in Hays to hold a meat canning workshop on August 7, 2024 from 1-5pm at the First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th St. We will preserve beef and chicken at the workshop, using both raw and hot pack methods. All supplies will be provided. Karen will include

information on the science and history behind food preservation, safe pressure canning of all types of meat, and tips on freezing and dehydrating. Cost: $35

If you have any questions or would like to sign up please call 785-628-9430 or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu

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/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictHave you ever been curious about canning meat? Is it safe? How do I do it safely? Why would I want to can meat?Canning is a great method to preserve and extend shelf life for many types of foods, including meat products. Using safe preparation and storage practices allows for anyone to store nutritious, high-quality protein.Before joining K-State Research and Extension I had done a little canning but mostly just trying to preserve garden produce. After taking a professional development canning class specifically for Extension Agents, I learned even more about canning and also how to can meat. I found canning meat a great skill to have in the kitchen. Why? You may ask…..Well, canning meat can be an easy way to get supper on the table. As a busy, working wife and mother I’m often struggling at the end of the day to come up with yet another meal my family will eat. I’m tired and hungry. I need something fast and easy! When you have canned meat on the shelf, all you have to do is open the can, warm it up and add some vegetables or grains to make a fast meal.Canning meat can also be healthy. Sometimes, when you purchase canned meat there maybe be unwanted ingredients. When you preserve the meat yourself you know exactly what is in there and can control the amount of ingredients you want in your food, for example, the amount of salt.When preserving meat you can use inexpensive cuts of meat and they turn out tender and tasty! Canning can be a way to save money on your animal-based protein. Yes, there is some expense if needing to purchase equipment but hopefully those will be one-time expense that you can use for many years.Next, canning may be another way to store food. Are you running out of freezer space? This can be a great way to free up that space by canning your meat.Do you hunt or fish? You can also can game meat and fish! Canning wild game and fish is another way to preserve your protein well past the hunting and fishing season.Finally, making it a social affair and doing with other people such as family and friends can make the work turn into a fun day. This can also help to minimize costs if you are able to preserve food with others. I always say, “Canning is like exercise, it is much more fun doing with others!”If you are curious and would like to learn more, Karen Blakeslee, K-State Research and Extension Rapid Response Coordinator and food scientist will be in Hays to hold a meat canning workshop on August 7, 2024 from 1-5pm at the First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th St. We will preserve beef and chicken at the workshop, using both raw and hot pack methods. All supplies will be provided. Karen will includeinformation on the science and history behind food preservation, safe pressure canning of all types of meat, and tips on freezing and dehydrating. Cost: $35If you have any questions or would like to sign up please call 785-628-9430 or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.eduMonique 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: Canning meat

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720977182754.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

GOVE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Sunday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Expedition driven by Tod A&nbsp;Huddleston, 62, St. Charles, Missouri,&nbsp;was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately five miles east of Quinter.

The driver lost control of the SUV when the right rear tire came off the vehicle. The SUV spun towards the south shoulder, overturned and to a rest in the south ditch on its roof.

EMS transported&nbsp;Huddleston and a passenger Janet Lynn Huddleston, 64, St. Charles, Missouri, to Gove County Medical Center. They were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GOVE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Sunday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Expedition driven by Tod A&nbsp;Huddleston, 62, St. Charles, Missouri,&nbsp;was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately five miles east of Quinter.The driver lost control of the SUV when the right rear tire came off the vehicle. The SUV spun towards the south shoulder, overturned and to a rest in the south ditch on its roof.EMS transported&nbsp;Huddleston and a passenger Janet Lynn Huddleston, 64, St. Charles, Missouri, to Gove County Medical Center. They were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after rear tire came off SUV on Interstate 70

I’ve seen several articles lately both in print and on the TV evening news reminding Kansans that it’s snake season. It reminded me of a small story years ago on the back page of the Hutchinson News entitled “Rattlesnake Relocation Project comes to an End.” It seems that in the spring of 2007, Lenexa, Kansas residents began spotting an ever-increasing number of rattlesnakes in some neighborhoods. While checking on the construction site for a never-built Target store, the city construction inspector discovered numerous rattlesnakes lying around the site. 

It was determined that a large rattlesnake den existed somewhere under a big pile of construction rubble there. A biology professor at a major out-of-state university, saw it as the perfect opportunity to test a new conservation model; the attempted relocation of as many snakes as possible from a single population in hopes they would establish their same population somewhere else. Around-the-clock “snake watches” were established at the den, and over the next 2 or 3 weeks the professor and a host of her students and other volunteers caught 35 Timber Rattlesnakes, implanted them with radio transmitters, (I’d like to have watched that) to permit their being tracked and deposited them at another suitable den site some miles away at a “top-secret” location.

The professors reasoning for relocating the snakes and not “whacking” them was two-fold; first of all, it seemed at that time, extreme eastern Kansas was probably the western most boundary of the Timber Rattlesnake in the U.S. and since their numbers were sparse, the Kansas Dept of Wildlife and Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) had made them a SINC species, which stands for Species in Need of Conservation. Because of this, Timber rattlesnakes can legally be killed in Kansas ONLY if they directly threaten your safety, not just because they happen to have rattles on their tail. She called them “the puppy dogs of the rattlesnake world,” and said a timber rattler’s first line of defense is to blend-in rather than to coil or strike, as they opt to save that energy for hunting. Secondly, she said that those snakes were likely there for years, possibly even before the area was built-up, meaning that we humans had encroached on their territory.

Now I’m more snake friendly than most, and because of the free, natural rodent control they provide I’ve been known to relocate a bull snake or two rather than to kill them, so don’t get me wrong here, I see rattlesnakes place in Nature. You rescue Lassie or Timmy if they fall into the well, you rescue a kitten with its head stuck in a salmon can, heck one guy on YouTube even rescued a prairie dog from his swimming pool, but I have a tough time seeing any sane Kansan rescuing a rattlesnake. It all reminds me of the prairie dogs “recued” years ago from around the mall in Hutchinson. The group went to great lengths to have them “sucked” from their dens into a big, padded truck, and taken to Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, only to discover later that the Quivira badgers were eating them like fast food.

So, I feel kinda’ sorry for the poor snakes, as the worst they probably ever encountered around their old home were little old ladies with garden hoses or hoes, but their new “secret” home was probably somewhere in the country where the resident farmers and ranchers would remove their heads and care less what species they were. The “puppy dog” of the rattlesnake world really doesn’t work for me either, as I refuse to give that nickname to anything that won’t curl up in my lap to have its ears scratched. And as far as killing Timber Rattlers in Kansas only if they threaten your safety, I have to ask you when you last saw a rattlesnake and DID NOT fear for your safety.

I’ve never been able to find the final outcome of the experiment / project in terms of whether it was deemed successful or not. The article did go on to say that a few litters of young Timber Rattlers were born during the project, and that the students went so far as to name several of the adult snakes; the largest being a male about 4 ½ feet long that weighed 2 pounds. He was named Abuelo, Spanish for grandfather. And by the way, the Timber Rattlesnake is still on the SINC list (Species in Need of Conservation) in Kansas. So, if confronted by a rattlesnake or any snake, give them a chance to retreat IF AT ALL POSSIBLE and live another day, before you remove their heads…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

I’ve seen several articles lately both in print and on the TV evening news reminding Kansans that it’s snake season. It reminded me of a small story years ago on the back page of the Hutchinson News entitled “Rattlesnake Relocation Project comes to an End.” It seems that in the spring of 2007, Lenexa, Kansas residents began spotting an ever-increasing number of rattlesnakes in some neighborhoods. While checking on the construction site for a never-built Target store, the city construction inspector discovered numerous rattlesnakes lying around the site. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>It was determined that a large rattlesnake den existed somewhere under a big pile of construction rubble there. A biology professor at a major out-of-state university, saw it as the perfect opportunity to test a new conservation model; the attempted relocation of as many snakes as possible from a single population in hopes they would establish their same population somewhere else. Around-the-clock “snake watches” were established at the den, and over the next 2 or 3 weeks the professor and a host of her students and other volunteers caught 35 Timber Rattlesnakes, implanted them with radio transmitters, (I’d like to have watched that) to permit their being tracked and deposited them at another suitable den site some miles away at a “top-secret” location.The professors reasoning for relocating the snakes and not “whacking” them was two-fold; first of all, it seemed at that time, extreme eastern Kansas was probably the western most boundary of the Timber Rattlesnake in the U.S. and since their numbers were sparse, the Kansas Dept of Wildlife and Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) had made them a SINC species, which stands for Species in Need of Conservation. Because of this, Timber rattlesnakes can legally be killed in Kansas ONLY if they directly threaten your safety, not just because they happen to have rattles on their tail. She called them “the puppy dogs of the rattlesnake world,” and said a timber rattler’s first line of defense is to blend-in rather than to coil or strike, as they opt to save that energy for hunting. Secondly, she said that those snakes were likely there for years, possibly even before the area was built-up, meaning that we humans had encroached on their territory.Now I’m more snake friendly than most, and because of the free, natural rodent control they provide I’ve been known to relocate a bull snake or two rather than to kill them, so don’t get me wrong here, I see rattlesnakes place in Nature. You rescue Lassie or Timmy if they fall into the well, you rescue a kitten with its head stuck in a salmon can, heck one guy on YouTube even rescued a prairie dog from his swimming pool, but I have a tough time seeing any sane Kansan rescuing a rattlesnake. It all reminds me of the prairie dogs “recued” years ago from around the mall in Hutchinson. The group went to great lengths to have them “sucked” from their dens into a big, padded truck, and taken to Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, only to discover later that the Quivira badgers were eating them like fast food.So, I feel kinda’ sorry for the poor snakes, as the worst they probably ever encountered around their old home were little old ladies with garden hoses or hoes, but their new “secret” home was probably somewhere in the country where the resident farmers and ranchers would remove their heads and care less what species they were. The “puppy dog” of the rattlesnake world really doesn’t work for me either, as I refuse to give that nickname to anything that won’t curl up in my lap to have its ears scratched. And as far as killing Timber Rattlers in Kansas only if they threaten your safety, I have to ask you when you last saw a rattlesnake and DID NOT fear for your safety.I’ve never been able to find the final outcome of the experiment / project in terms of whether it was deemed successful or not. The article did go on to say that a few litters of young Timber Rattlers were born during the project, and that the students went so far as to name several of the adult snakes; the largest being a male about 4 ½ feet long that weighed 2 pounds. He was named Abuelo, Spanish for grandfather. And by the way, the Timber Rattlesnake is still on the SINC list (Species in Need of Conservation) in Kansas. So, if confronted by a rattlesnake or any snake, give them a chance to retreat IF AT ALL POSSIBLE and live another day, before you remove their heads…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Gilliland: Rattlesnake Relocation Project

By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post&nbsp;

Now that Raymond and Mary Alice Brent have crossed off their bucket list the goal of visiting all 50 states, what’s next for the Hays couple?&nbsp;

After some thought, Mary Alice suggested they visit more national parks. Raymond suggested visiting all seven continents.&nbsp;

“There are fewer continents than there are countries,” Raymond said, adding North America and Europe have already been checked off their list.&nbsp;

The adventurous couple warmed to the notion of visiting all 50 states one day in 2014 while sitting in Wendy’s Restaurant. There was a map of the United States on the wall, and Raymond and Mary Alice started checking off states they had already visited.

They soon realized they only needed 15 more states to visit.&nbsp;

Nevada was the final state to complete the list. The couple visited there earlier this summer.

These days, Raymond, 74, and Mary Alice, 71, rest up before taking on another big adventure.

Before Mary Alice had knee replacement surgery on both of her knees, travel was a chore at times. Now, they wouldn’t dream of stopping.&nbsp;

“We’re not going to quit traveling,” Raymond said. “The question is where to go. We’ve got a few ideas.”

“I think we’re like kids in a candy store,” he added. “We see something and say, ‘Wow’ – just the diversity of the different states.”&nbsp;

Mary Alice said although they have traveled far and wide, their home state has much to offer. There are sites in the Sunflower State they still want to see, and one they have already visited was a sight to behold.&nbsp;

Visiting Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park in Logan County was special.&nbsp;

Mary Alice grew up on a farm outside Morganville, a small town near Clay Center in north central Kansas. Farm work took priority over travel. Now, she can’t get enough of it, maybe playing catch-up.&nbsp;

“I like to go,” she said simply.&nbsp;

The couple took their two children on trips as kids, and they also now like to travel as adults. Mary Alice and Raymond just laughed at the suggestion that their children learned to love travel from their parents.&nbsp;

While growing up in Alton in Osborne County, Raymond’s family did some traveling as a child. The travel bug bit him early, and he has just kept on trucking—or rather, bussing. For long, multi-state adventures, the Brents usually travel on a tour bus.

Raymond learned a lesson on one such trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania's Civil War battle site.

Raymond, a lover of history and museums, was immersed in the museum there, and the tour director had to remind him that it was time to get back on the bus. Lesson learned: Don’t get left behind.&nbsp;

“Sometimes it’s hard to get Raymond out of museums,” Mary Alice said.&nbsp;

“They almost left me at Gettysburg,” said Raymond, who earned a history degree at Fort Hays State University while working in retail in Hays.&nbsp;

National parks are some of the couple’s favorite stops along the way. They would like to visit them again.&nbsp;

“I would like to go back to Hawaii,” Raymond said. “I’d like to go back and spend more time in California.”

Mary Alice wants to return to Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. The mountain there, formerly known as Mount McKinley, has the highest peak in North America, but it’s an elusive sight, she added.&nbsp;

Due to prevalent cloud cover, the entire mountain is visible just five days out of 100, and part of the mountain is visible only 20 days out of a 100. When the Brents were there, the mountain was shrouded in clouds.&nbsp;

“We probably need to go back to Alaska and see the whole thing,” she said.&nbsp;

Plus, you never know who you might meet. Raymond said they have met a wide variety of people, some with whom they are still friends to this day.&nbsp;

“Along the way, you realize we’re a small world,” Raymond said, adding you won’t know what you might see until you experience what travel—and life—has to offer.&nbsp;

“There’s more to look at in this world than what’s right in our face,” he added. “We’ve become so ingrained in seeing the trees. We’ve forgotten the forest that’s out there. It’s a big forest.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720800819974.jpeg" alt="The Grand Canyon of the Pacific in Hawaii is compared to Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Grand Canyon of the Pacific in Hawaii is compared to Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post&nbsp;Now that Raymond and Mary Alice Brent have crossed off their bucket list the goal of visiting all 50 states, what’s next for the Hays couple?&nbsp;After some thought, Mary Alice suggested they visit more national parks. Raymond suggested visiting all seven continents.&nbsp;“There are fewer continents than there are countries,” Raymond said, adding North America and Europe have already been checked off their list.&nbsp;The adventurous couple warmed to the notion of visiting all 50 states one day in 2014 while sitting in Wendy’s Restaurant. There was a map of the United States on the wall, and Raymond and Mary Alice started checking off states they had already visited.They soon realized they only needed 15 more states to visit.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720800861340.jpeg" alt="Hays residents Raymond and Mary Alice Brent have visited all 50 states, pictured here at a Hawaiian-themed celebration in Phillipsburg. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays residents Raymond and Mary Alice Brent have visited all 50 states, pictured here at a Hawaiian-themed celebration in Phillipsburg. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Nevada was the final state to complete the list. The couple visited there earlier this summer.These days, Raymond, 74, and Mary Alice, 71, rest up before taking on another big adventure.Before Mary Alice had knee replacement surgery on both of her knees, travel was a chore at times. Now, they wouldn’t dream of stopping.&nbsp;“We’re not going to quit traveling,” Raymond said. “The question is where to go. We’ve got a few ideas.”“I think we’re like kids in a candy store,” he added. “We see something and say, ‘Wow’ – just the diversity of the different states.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720800886074.jpeg" alt="One of the favorite stops for Raymond and Mary Alice was at Joshua Tree Forest in Arizona. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>One of the favorite stops for Raymond and Mary Alice was at Joshua Tree Forest in Arizona. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Alice said although they have traveled far and wide, their home state has much to offer. There are sites in the Sunflower State they still want to see, and one they have already visited was a sight to behold.&nbsp;Visiting Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park in Logan County was special.&nbsp;Mary Alice grew up on a farm outside Morganville, a small town near Clay Center in north central Kansas. Farm work took priority over travel. Now, she can’t get enough of it, maybe playing catch-up.&nbsp;“I like to go,” she said simply.&nbsp;The couple took their two children on trips as kids, and they also now like to travel as adults. Mary Alice and Raymond just laughed at the suggestion that their children learned to love travel from their parents.&nbsp;While growing up in Alton in Osborne County, Raymond’s family did some traveling as a child. The travel bug bit him early, and he has just kept on trucking—or rather, bussing. For long, multi-state adventures, the Brents usually travel on a tour bus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720800918289.jpeg" alt="Raymond and Mary Alice enjoyed the scenic beauty of Glacier National Park in Alaska. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Raymond and Mary Alice enjoyed the scenic beauty of Glacier National Park in Alaska. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Raymond learned a lesson on one such trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania's Civil War battle site.Raymond, a lover of history and museums, was immersed in the museum there, and the tour director had to remind him that it was time to get back on the bus. Lesson learned: Don’t get left behind.&nbsp;“Sometimes it’s hard to get Raymond out of museums,” Mary Alice said.&nbsp;“They almost left me at Gettysburg,” said Raymond, who earned a history degree at Fort Hays State University while working in retail in Hays.&nbsp;National parks are some of the couple’s favorite stops along the way. They would like to visit them again.&nbsp;“I would like to go back to Hawaii,” Raymond said. “I’d like to go back and spend more time in California.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720800947872.jpeg" alt="While in North Dakota, Raymond and Mary Alice visited Theodore Roosevelt’s cabin. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>While in North Dakota, Raymond and Mary Alice visited Theodore Roosevelt’s cabin. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Alice wants to return to Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. The mountain there, formerly known as Mount McKinley, has the highest peak in North America, but it’s an elusive sight, she added.&nbsp;Due to prevalent cloud cover, the entire mountain is visible just five days out of 100, and part of the mountain is visible only 20 days out of a 100. When the Brents were there, the mountain was shrouded in clouds.&nbsp;“We probably need to go back to Alaska and see the whole thing,” she said.&nbsp;Plus, you never know who you might meet. Raymond said they have met a wide variety of people, some with whom they are still friends to this day.&nbsp;“Along the way, you realize we’re a small world,” Raymond said, adding you won’t know what you might see until you experience what travel—and life—has to offer.&nbsp;“There’s more to look at in this world than what’s right in our face,” he added. “We’ve become so ingrained in seeing the trees. We’ve forgotten the forest that’s out there. It’s a big forest.”&nbsp;

NWester: Hays couple on the road again ... and again ... and again

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Hays area residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®&nbsp;on September 21 at Fort Hays State University Quad (East side of Memorial Union). The Walk site opens at 9:00 a.m., the Promise Garden Flower Ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m. and walking begins immediately following the ceremony.&nbsp;

“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that change the course of the disease,” said Leigh Purdy, Walk Committee Chair. “We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer’s Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally ending this disease.”

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Kansas, there are more than 54,500&nbsp;people living with the disease and 89,000&nbsp;caregivers.

To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s seven Walks in Central and Western Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://alz.org/cwkswalk">alz.org/cwkswalk</a>.&nbsp;If you need help registering, please contact Mark Bretches at 316.512.9711 ext. 1045 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mabretches@alz.org">mabretches@alz.org</a>.&nbsp;

SubmittedThe Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Hays area residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®&nbsp;on September 21 at Fort Hays State University Quad (East side of Memorial Union). The Walk site opens at 9:00 a.m., the Promise Garden Flower Ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m. and walking begins immediately following the ceremony.&nbsp;“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that change the course of the disease,” said Leigh Purdy, Walk Committee Chair. “We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer’s Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally ending this disease.”On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Kansas, there are more than 54,500&nbsp;people living with the disease and 89,000&nbsp;caregivers.To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s seven Walks in Central and Western Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://alz.org/cwkswalk">alz.org/cwkswalk</a>.&nbsp;If you need help registering, please contact Mark Bretches at 316.512.9711 ext. 1045 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mabretches@alz.org">mabretches@alz.org</a>.&nbsp;

Walk to End Alzheimer’s is World’s Largest Event Dedicated  to Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Research

The July meeting of Chapter GS of P.E.O. celebrated the recent award of a P.E.O. Star Scholarship to Lilian McGrath with an ice cream social. P.E.O. sisters gathered to wish her well as she prepares for life at the University of Kansas.

Lilian is the daughter of Scott and Lisa McGrath and a graduate of the class of 2024 at Hays High School where she served on the Student Council, played varsity volleyball and ran track. She shadowed medical professionals at Hays Medical Center the summer of 2023 and recently earned her CNA certification. She plans to major in biochemistry with the goal of attending medical school. Lilian is one of 900 young women nationwide to receive this honor.

Lilian’s scholarship application was sponsored by Chapter GS of P.E.O. The Star Scholarship provides financial support for exceptional women in their final year of high school to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada. It is one of six scholarships and grants that support educational opportunities for women.

P.E.O. is an international sisterhood based upon the principles of friendship and loyalty. Since its founding in 1869, P.E.O. philanthropies have provided approximately $432 million in financial assistance to more than 125,000 women.

SubmittedThe July meeting of Chapter GS of P.E.O. celebrated the recent award of a P.E.O. Star Scholarship to Lilian McGrath with an ice cream social. P.E.O. sisters gathered to wish her well as she prepares for life at the University of Kansas.Lilian is the daughter of Scott and Lisa McGrath and a graduate of the class of 2024 at Hays High School where she served on the Student Council, played varsity volleyball and ran track. She shadowed medical professionals at Hays Medical Center the summer of 2023 and recently earned her CNA certification. She plans to major in biochemistry with the goal of attending medical school. Lilian is one of 900 young women nationwide to receive this honor.Lilian’s scholarship application was sponsored by Chapter GS of P.E.O. The Star Scholarship provides financial support for exceptional women in their final year of high school to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada. It is one of six scholarships and grants that support educational opportunities for women.P.E.O. is an international sisterhood based upon the principles of friendship and loyalty. Since its founding in 1869, P.E.O. philanthropies have provided approximately $432 million in financial assistance to more than 125,000 women.

Lilian McGrath scholarship celebrated

By Mark R. Joslyn Insight Kansas

Do people vote against their self-interest? For example, there are LGBTQ Americans that vote Republican, despite the party’s track record of unfavorable policies toward the LGBTQ community.

Similarly, affluent Americans back President Biden, even though his tax policies target high-income households.

And despite Donald Trump’s persistent attacks on migrants, and support for harsh immigration policies, many Latinos support him.

Writing after the reelection of George W. Bush in 2004, Kansas native Thomas Frank claimed in his bestseller, What’s the Matter with Kansas, that the white working class were deceived into voting against their economic interests. Republicans convinced them that a liberal, coastal, urban elite threatened traditional American values and it was the responsibility of heartland farmers, factory workers, and waitresses to protect those values.

But according to Frank, traditional values were a ploy. Republicans after all represented big business and the wealthy. What the working class received for their support was lower wages, tax cuts for the rich, business deregulations, and sustained attacks on labor unions.

“Strip today's Kansans of their job security, and they head out to become registered Republicans. Push them off their land, and next thing you know they're protesting in front of abortion clinics. Squander their life savings on manicures for the CEO, and there's a good chance they'll join the John Birch Society.” What’s the Matter with Kansas? (2004, 67-68).

As it turned out, Frank was wrong. Systematic research showed the working class was not tricked. Economic issues, compared to traditional values, were the main drivers of their vote.

Moreover, the working class are not the only group to switch party allegiances – affluent voters have as well. In 1996, the highest income voters went for Republican Bob Dole by 16 points. But that margin completely disappeared by 2020. Joe Biden split the wealthy vote evenly with Trump.

This change impacted Kansas. In 1996, Johnson County went for Dole by 22 points. By 2020, Biden won by 8 points, flipping Kansas’s wealthiest county for the first time in decades.

Does this mean Democrats hoodwinked affluent Johnson County voters into acting against their material interests?

Wealthy Americans that support Democrats may do so because they believe in the values championed by the party – protecting the environment, universal health care, and a larger role for government in fighting racial and economic inequalities.

Similarly, LGBTQ and Latino Americans who cast their votes for Republicans may do so because they identify with the values the party upholds - limited government, strong national defense, free markets, and lower taxes.

All of this serves as a reminder that self-interest manifests in countless ways and its interpretation is entirely subjective.

Voters prioritize certain interests over others. It’s ultimately a personal matter.

The strength of democracy lies in the freedom of voters to choose candidates that align with their self-interests. But when doubts are raised about what in fact those interests are, and the political choices that arise from them, democracy suffers.

By Mark R. Joslyn Insight KansasDo people vote against their self-interest? For example, there are LGBTQ Americans that vote Republican, despite the party’s track record of unfavorable policies toward the LGBTQ community.Similarly, affluent Americans back President Biden, even though his tax policies target high-income households.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="Mark Joslyn" />
 <figcaption>Mark Joslyn</figcaption>
 </figure>And despite Donald Trump’s persistent attacks on migrants, and support for harsh immigration policies, many Latinos support him.Writing after the reelection of George W. Bush in 2004, Kansas native Thomas Frank claimed in his bestseller, What’s the Matter with Kansas, that the white working class were deceived into voting against their economic interests. Republicans convinced them that a liberal, coastal, urban elite threatened traditional American values and it was the responsibility of heartland farmers, factory workers, and waitresses to protect those values.And so, they voted Republican.But according to Frank, traditional values were a ploy. Republicans after all represented big business and the wealthy. What the working class received for their support was lower wages, tax cuts for the rich, business deregulations, and sustained attacks on labor unions.Frank did not hold back:“Strip today's Kansans of their job security, and they head out to become registered Republicans. Push them off their land, and next thing you know they're protesting in front of abortion clinics. Squander their life savings on manicures for the CEO, and there's a good chance they'll join the John Birch Society.” What’s the Matter with Kansas? (2004, 67-68).As it turned out, Frank was wrong. Systematic research showed the working class was not tricked. Economic issues, compared to traditional values, were the main drivers of their vote.Moreover, the working class are not the only group to switch party allegiances – affluent voters have as well. In 1996, the highest income voters went for Republican Bob Dole by 16 points. But that margin completely disappeared by 2020. Joe Biden split the wealthy vote evenly with Trump.This change impacted Kansas. In 1996, Johnson County went for Dole by 22 points. By 2020, Biden won by 8 points, flipping Kansas’s wealthiest county for the first time in decades.Does this mean Democrats hoodwinked affluent Johnson County voters into acting against their material interests?Of course not.Wealthy Americans that support Democrats may do so because they believe in the values championed by the party – protecting the environment, universal health care, and a larger role for government in fighting racial and economic inequalities.Similarly, LGBTQ and Latino Americans who cast their votes for Republicans may do so because they identify with the values the party upholds - limited government, strong national defense, free markets, and lower taxes.All of this serves as a reminder that self-interest manifests in countless ways and its interpretation is entirely subjective.Voters prioritize certain interests over others. It’s ultimately a personal matter.The strength of democracy lies in the freedom of voters to choose candidates that align with their self-interests. But when doubts are raised about what in fact those interests are, and the political choices that arise from them, democracy suffers.

INSIGHT: Respecting voter choices: A key rule for democracy

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720914073582.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

WaKeeney Church of God has partnered with ShowOps presents to invite you to a local worship concert series taking place right here in Wakeeney.

Location: WaKeeney Church of God- 1300 Easter Ave, Wakeeney, KS

Dates: 3rd Show July 14 featuring Eli Gable, Iveth Luna, &amp; Micah Christopher

To further support the local community, Single ticket sales for the third show July 14 will go to a local charity

Contacts: ShowOps Presents: Chad Schultz chad@showops.com

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.showopspresents.com">www.showopspresents.com</a>

SubmittedWaKeeney Church of God has partnered with ShowOps presents to invite you to a local worship concert series taking place right here in Wakeeney.Location: WaKeeney Church of God- 1300 Easter Ave, Wakeeney, KSDates: 3rd Show July 14 featuring Eli Gable, Iveth Luna, &amp; Micah ChristopherTickets: $10 for each show in series.To further support the local community, Single ticket sales for the third show July 14 will go to a local charityContacts: ShowOps Presents: Chad Schultz chad@showops.comFor more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.showopspresents.com">www.showopspresents.com</a>

WaKeeney Church of God to present concert series

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood Extension District shares tractor safety information

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/kelciemoseley-morris/">KELCIE MOSELEY-MORRIS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Refelctor</a>

Clinic closures in the wake of the Dobbs decision and questions about the legality of emergency contraceptives, including disinformation that some are abortion drugs, may have contributed to a sharp drop in the rate of prescriptions for contraceptives in states with the most restrictive abortion bans, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820370?utm_source=For_The_Media&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=ftm_links&amp;utm_term=062624" target="_blank">University of California Los Angeles study</a>.

The decline was significant in most states with restrictive bans following Dobbs in June 2022 that returned regulation of abortion procedures to the states, the study found. The group of researchers, led by pharmacy professor Dima Qato, used data from national prescription audit databases to estimate the monthly volume of prescriptions dispensed at pharmacies nationwide and state-by-state. It represents estimates from more than 93% of retail pharmacies.

“Given that abortion would be restricted in many states even more after Dobbs, I wondered whether now more people would get covered through contraception to prevent pregnancy and the need for an abortion,” Qato said.

Over the past six months, especially in states with near-total abortion bans, lawmakers have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/right-birth-control-bill-stalls-louisiana-legislature-over-anti-abortion-concerns" target="_blank">discussed proposals</a>&nbsp;that would protect access to contraception, but those efforts have largely failed because of concern over whether that would include emergency contraception. Some anti-abortion organizations call Plan B, which is an emergency contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, an abortion drug because it can prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg.

The researchers think those conversations have led to confusion among residents who aren’t sure if emergency contraceptives are still legal in their state. That confusion could also extend to pharmacists. While Plan B is available over the counter at many retail stores and pharmacies, including Amazon, it can also be obtained by prescription, which is the only data point the study captured. According to the research, the rate of obtaining it through prescription between 2021 and 2023 dropped more than 70% in four states with near-total bans — Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana and Tennessee. It declined by about 60% in Missouri.

The increases peaked in July 2022 and then dropped to levels lower than the pre-Dobbs period, Qato said.

“For patients that are seeking emergency contraception but can’t get it prescribed or filled, that’s where it matters,” Qato said. “They want to take it, they know it’s an option, and now they’re faced with hesitant prescribers and pharmacies.”

Half of women surveyed in ban states are unsure if Plan B is legal

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/poll-finding/kff-health-tracking-poll-early-2023/" target="_blank">Kaiser Family Foundation poll</a>&nbsp;released in early 2023 found that more than 30% of adults surveyed were unsure if Plan B was legal in all 50 states and over the counter — and half of women living in states with abortion bans were under the impression that emergency contraceptives were illegal or were unsure if they were legal.

Conversely, in two states with near-total bans, Idaho and South Dakota, the rate of prescriptions for emergency contraceptives increased by 148% and 182%, respectively. Those numbers were attributed to increases in ulipristal, which is also known as Ella, rather than levonorgestrel, known as Plan B. Ella can be effective at preventing pregnancy up to five days after unprotected sex, while Plan B is most effective within three days and is also less effective in people who weigh more than 165 pounds, while Ella does not have that limitation.

Between the 12 states with the most restrictive bans, the combined decline of emergency contraceptive prescriptions was 60%, and the decline for oral contraceptives was 24%.

Qato said she expected to see lower rates of emergency contraceptive use in the most restrictive states, particularly with the conversations likening them to abortion drugs, but she wasn’t expecting to also see a drop in monthly oral contraceptive prescriptions. Among states with the most restrictive bans, the largest decrease of 28% was in Texas, while most other states had decreases of about 20%, including Kentucky, Louisiana, Alabama and Tennessee.

Qato also theorized that the closure of abortion clinics in those states with bans contributed to the decreases, since most clinics that provided abortions prior to Dobbs also offered prescriptions for oral and emergency contraceptives, IUDs and other family planning services such as screenings for sexually transmitted diseases. The study found no change in the use of IUDs and other forms of contraception such as the patch or vaginal ring.

Over-the-counter options only help certain people

In her research, Qato noted that two years after Iowa imposed Medicaid coverage restrictions on family planning clinics that provided abortions, the use of contraceptives declined by two-thirds.

A<a href="https://click.everyaction.com/k/88143516/483292034/-344187778?nvep=ew0KICAiVGVuYW50VXJpIjogIm5ncHZhbjovL3Zhbi9TTldTUi9TTldTUi8xLzEwNTEzMSIsDQogICJEaXN0cmlidXRpb25VbmlxdWVJZCI6ICJjMGNmODE2Ny0yYjM5LWVmMTEtODZkMi02MDQ1YmRkOWUwOTYiLA0KICAiRW1haWxBZGRyZXNzIjogImttb3NlbGV5QGlkYWhvY2FwaXRhbHN1bi5jb20iDQp9&amp;hmac=ywMCUDPlSR2nSJqm_Lo8KzweXsH2dT0CwjGw83EUKxM=&amp;emci=efcfb094-b138-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;emdi=c0cf8167-2b39-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;ceid=453730" target="_blank">&nbsp;report from the Guttmacher Institute</a>&nbsp;released this week showed 42 clinics that provided abortions nationwide closed their doors between 2020 and 2024. The number of abortions have also increased during that time, and more than 80% still take place at brick-and-mortar clinics rather than via telehealth or by mail.

While Plan B and Opill — an oral contraceptive — are available over the counter, Qato said those options are still untenable for some people who need contraceptives the most, including low-income women and women of color.

“Opill is convenient for those who don’t want to go to the doctor and have that discretionary income to purchase it, but low-income women relied on clinics that are now closed. They relied on prescriptions that they now don’t have,” Qato said. “Those options are accessible, but not affordable to women who could really benefit from it.”

While Qato said there should be a focus on restoring and protecting access to abortion, there should also be efforts to protect contraception in the most restrictive states. She is alarmed to see initial increases after Dobbs and then such steep declines.

“It suggests that we may observe increases in live births from unintended pregnancies in women who were forced to have a child that wasn’t planned because the state didn’t protect or introduced fear of criminalization or liability for patients, doctors, or pharmacists,” she said. “A woman may not feel safe choosing emergency contraception in those states anymore.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720810445877.png" alt="Some anti-abortion organizations call Plan B, which is an emergency contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, an abortion drug because it can prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg. (Illustration by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)" />
 <figcaption>Some anti-abortion organizations call Plan B, which is an emergency contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, an abortion drug because it can prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg. (Illustration by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/kelciemoseley-morris/">KELCIE MOSELEY-MORRIS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Refelctor</a>Clinic closures in the wake of the Dobbs decision and questions about the legality of emergency contraceptives, including disinformation that some are abortion drugs, may have contributed to a sharp drop in the rate of prescriptions for contraceptives in states with the most restrictive abortion bans, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820370?utm_source=For_The_Media&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=ftm_links&amp;utm_term=062624" target="_blank">University of California Los Angeles study</a>.The decline was significant in most states with restrictive bans following Dobbs in June 2022 that returned regulation of abortion procedures to the states, the study found. The group of researchers, led by pharmacy professor Dima Qato, used data from national prescription audit databases to estimate the monthly volume of prescriptions dispensed at pharmacies nationwide and state-by-state. It represents estimates from more than 93% of retail pharmacies.“Given that abortion would be restricted in many states even more after Dobbs, I wondered whether now more people would get covered through contraception to prevent pregnancy and the need for an abortion,” Qato said.Over the past six months, especially in states with near-total abortion bans, lawmakers have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/right-birth-control-bill-stalls-louisiana-legislature-over-anti-abortion-concerns" target="_blank">discussed proposals</a>&nbsp;that would protect access to contraception, but those efforts have largely failed because of concern over whether that would include emergency contraception. Some anti-abortion organizations call Plan B, which is an emergency contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, an abortion drug because it can prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg.The researchers think those conversations have led to confusion among residents who aren’t sure if emergency contraceptives are still legal in their state. That confusion could also extend to pharmacists. While Plan B is available over the counter at many retail stores and pharmacies, including Amazon, it can also be obtained by prescription, which is the only data point the study captured. According to the research, the rate of obtaining it through prescription between 2021 and 2023 dropped more than 70% in four states with near-total bans — Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana and Tennessee. It declined by about 60% in Missouri.The increases peaked in July 2022 and then dropped to levels lower than the pre-Dobbs period, Qato said.“For patients that are seeking emergency contraception but can’t get it prescribed or filled, that’s where it matters,” Qato said. “They want to take it, they know it’s an option, and now they’re faced with hesitant prescribers and pharmacies.”<h2>Half of women surveyed in ban states are unsure if Plan B is legal</h2>A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/poll-finding/kff-health-tracking-poll-early-2023/" target="_blank">Kaiser Family Foundation poll</a>&nbsp;released in early 2023 found that more than 30% of adults surveyed were unsure if Plan B was legal in all 50 states and over the counter — and half of women living in states with abortion bans were under the impression that emergency contraceptives were illegal or were unsure if they were legal.Conversely, in two states with near-total bans, Idaho and South Dakota, the rate of prescriptions for emergency contraceptives increased by 148% and 182%, respectively. Those numbers were attributed to increases in ulipristal, which is also known as Ella, rather than levonorgestrel, known as Plan B. Ella can be effective at preventing pregnancy up to five days after unprotected sex, while Plan B is most effective within three days and is also less effective in people who weigh more than 165 pounds, while Ella does not have that limitation.Between the 12 states with the most restrictive bans, the combined decline of emergency contraceptive prescriptions was 60%, and the decline for oral contraceptives was 24%.Qato said she expected to see lower rates of emergency contraceptive use in the most restrictive states, particularly with the conversations likening them to abortion drugs, but she wasn’t expecting to also see a drop in monthly oral contraceptive prescriptions. Among states with the most restrictive bans, the largest decrease of 28% was in Texas, while most other states had decreases of about 20%, including Kentucky, Louisiana, Alabama and Tennessee.Qato also theorized that the closure of abortion clinics in those states with bans contributed to the decreases, since most clinics that provided abortions prior to Dobbs also offered prescriptions for oral and emergency contraceptives, IUDs and other family planning services such as screenings for sexually transmitted diseases. The study found no change in the use of IUDs and other forms of contraception such as the patch or vaginal ring.<h2>Over-the-counter options only help certain people</h2>In her research, Qato noted that two years after Iowa imposed Medicaid coverage restrictions on family planning clinics that provided abortions, the use of contraceptives declined by two-thirds.A<a href="https://click.everyaction.com/k/88143516/483292034/-344187778?nvep=ew0KICAiVGVuYW50VXJpIjogIm5ncHZhbjovL3Zhbi9TTldTUi9TTldTUi8xLzEwNTEzMSIsDQogICJEaXN0cmlidXRpb25VbmlxdWVJZCI6ICJjMGNmODE2Ny0yYjM5LWVmMTEtODZkMi02MDQ1YmRkOWUwOTYiLA0KICAiRW1haWxBZGRyZXNzIjogImttb3NlbGV5QGlkYWhvY2FwaXRhbHN1bi5jb20iDQp9&amp;hmac=ywMCUDPlSR2nSJqm_Lo8KzweXsH2dT0CwjGw83EUKxM=&amp;emci=efcfb094-b138-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;emdi=c0cf8167-2b39-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;ceid=453730" target="_blank">&nbsp;report from the Guttmacher Institute</a>&nbsp;released this week showed 42 clinics that provided abortions nationwide closed their doors between 2020 and 2024. The number of abortions have also increased during that time, and more than 80% still take place at brick-and-mortar clinics rather than via telehealth or by mail.While Plan B and Opill — an oral contraceptive — are available over the counter, Qato said those options are still untenable for some people who need contraceptives the most, including low-income women and women of color.“Opill is convenient for those who don’t want to go to the doctor and have that discretionary income to purchase it, but low-income women relied on clinics that are now closed. They relied on prescriptions that they now don’t have,” Qato said. “Those options are accessible, but not affordable to women who could really benefit from it.”While Qato said there should be a focus on restoring and protecting access to abortion, there should also be efforts to protect contraception in the most restrictive states. She is alarmed to see initial increases after Dobbs and then such steep declines.“It suggests that we may observe increases in live births from unintended pregnancies in women who were forced to have a child that wasn’t planned because the state didn’t protect or introduced fear of criminalization or liability for patients, doctors, or pharmacists,” she said. “A woman may not feel safe choosing emergency contraception in those states anymore.”

Confusion, clinic closures may have caused big declines in contraception use, study shows

The Ellis County Fair races at RPM Speedway will start at 8 tonight instead of 7 p.m. because of the heat.

The Ellis County Fair races at RPM Speedway will start at 8 tonight instead of 7 p.m. because of the heat.

Ellis County Fair races to start late due to heat

🎥 Green & Growing Tomato Disease

We are excited to invite you to a special BBQ celebration honoring the Schmidt Foundation's grant award to ECHS for our Phase 3 Brick by Brick renovation. Ellis County Historical Society also extends our thanks to all the generous donations and support received over the past two and half years of this project.

Join us as we unveil more of the remarkable painting by Dennis Schiel, made possible by the Jeter families.

Activities will include pulling hundreds of bricks to reveal more of the artwork, followed by a complimentary picnic featuring pork sandwiches, hot dogs, pasta salad, watermelon, and chips for the first 100 guests.

Please bring your family and help us celebrate this milestone with our community, who have been instrumental in preserving the historic red brick church.

The Brick by Brick campaign aimed to raise funds to save the historic brick building that houses ECHS main office and museum. Phase 3 goals of just under $200,000 goes to the renovation of the main floor gallery, a crucial and final step towards reopening the entire building to the public. The Ellis County Historical Society has been diligently working to catalog and preserve its extensive collection while simultaneously updating its facilities to meet the evolving needs of its visitors.

We are excited to invite you to a special BBQ celebration honoring the Schmidt Foundation's grant award to ECHS for our Phase 3 Brick by Brick renovation. Ellis County Historical Society also extends our thanks to all the generous donations and support received over the past two and half years of this project.Join us as we unveil more of the remarkable painting by Dennis Schiel, made possible by the Jeter families.Date: Tuesday, July 16Time: 5:30 pmLocation: ECHS at 7th &amp; MainActivities will include pulling hundreds of bricks to reveal more of the artwork, followed by a complimentary picnic featuring pork sandwiches, hot dogs, pasta salad, watermelon, and chips for the first 100 guests.Please bring your family and help us celebrate this milestone with our community, who have been instrumental in preserving the historic red brick church.The Brick by Brick campaign aimed to raise funds to save the historic brick building that houses ECHS main office and museum. Phase 3 goals of just under $200,000 goes to the renovation of the main floor gallery, a crucial and final step towards reopening the entire building to the public. The Ellis County Historical Society has been diligently working to catalog and preserve its extensive collection while simultaneously updating its facilities to meet the evolving needs of its visitors.

BBQ Reception for ECHS Brick-by-Brick Phase 3 planned

Few things made Fort Hays State University alumnus Mike Morgison happier than getting his hands dirty. From a messy, rough-and-tumble boy to a skilled man who could reassemble almost anything he pulled apart, Mike exemplified the value of hard work. Before he passed away in 2022, Mike put a gift in place to help FHSU students with similar interests. His sister, Patty Brandenburg, and her husband, Eldon, returned to Hays in April for an emotional and intimate reception on campus. During the event, the couple announced Mike’s legacy, a gift of $502,000 in support of construction management scholarships within FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology. &nbsp;

Mike was taught how to work hard from a young age. His family owned the Dodge City Sand Company, better known as the Sand Pit, a repurposed 90-acre lake filled with sediment. He and Patty, born 13 months apart, and their younger brother Bill would spend afternoons in the pit, getting dirty and having fun. As much playing as they did in the pit, they worked even harder. Mike learned how to operate bulldozers and deliver sand as a teen, logging long hours to help the family business thrive. He worked for his dad and uncle at the Sand Pit after high school while chipping away at his associate of arts degree from Dodge City Community College. Coming to Fort Hays State was the next step in furthering his education.

Despite Mike’s original plan to attend Fort Hays State for the social aspect, he was also serious about his education. This get-to-work attitude helped him earn his business degree from FHSU in 1983 and land a job as a foreman at J-A-G Construction in southwest Kansas following graduation.

“Mike was the type of person who would do anything in the world for you and help you in any way he could. But you better take care of business. He believed that if you didn't have time to do it right, when would you have time to do it again?” said Patty.

Shortly before Mike’s passing in 2022, he visited FHSU’s campus to see the newly constructed Center for Applied Technology building and meet students pursuing similar careers. Kim Stewart, Department of Applied Technology Chair, brought a glimmer to Mike’s eyes when he shared more about some of the hands-on internships students were participating in. &nbsp;

When he met with applied technology students two years ago, Mike had already become a member of the Fort Hays State University Wooster Society. Named for FHSU’s fourth president, the Wooster Society honors individuals who have chosen to leave a legacy through planned giving. Mike understood the importance of paying it forward and supporting students as they prepared for careers in construction management.

During the April reception on campus, Patty and Eldon had an opportunity to meet one of those students, Bryson Rupp.

Bryson recently graduated from Fort Hays State with a Bachelor of Science in technology studies with an emphasis in construction management. Though he never met Mike, his life impacted Bryson, who was hired thanks to a connection he made while at a career fair that Mike and Kim collaborated on creating.

&nbsp;“Mike Morgison’s legacy will be that of opportunities. We, the students of applied technology, are immensely grateful to him for this legacy of opening doors. Many future construction management students will benefit from this generous gift,” said Bryson.

Patty closed her remarks by sharing Mike’s hope for the students his scholarship will impact.

“Mike’s dream was to provide a scholarship to people like him, who weren’t afraid to work hard, get down in the dirt, play in the concrete, never give up, and see the future,” said Patty.

Make a difference in students’ lives. Becoming a Wooster Society member like Mike is only one option for leaving a legacy at Fort Hays State. If you’re thinking about leaving your mark on an area of campus, the FHSU Foundation team would happily schedule a no-obligation meeting to discuss options that meet your needs. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, call 785-628-5620, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;to learn more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720549256988.png" alt="Mike Morgison" />
 <figcaption>Mike Morgison</figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU FoundationFew things made Fort Hays State University alumnus Mike Morgison happier than getting his hands dirty. From a messy, rough-and-tumble boy to a skilled man who could reassemble almost anything he pulled apart, Mike exemplified the value of hard work. Before he passed away in 2022, Mike put a gift in place to help FHSU students with similar interests. His sister, Patty Brandenburg, and her husband, Eldon, returned to Hays in April for an emotional and intimate reception on campus. During the event, the couple announced Mike’s legacy, a gift of $502,000 in support of construction management scholarships within FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology. &nbsp;Mike was taught how to work hard from a young age. His family owned the Dodge City Sand Company, better known as the Sand Pit, a repurposed 90-acre lake filled with sediment. He and Patty, born 13 months apart, and their younger brother Bill would spend afternoons in the pit, getting dirty and having fun. As much playing as they did in the pit, they worked even harder. Mike learned how to operate bulldozers and deliver sand as a teen, logging long hours to help the family business thrive. He worked for his dad and uncle at the Sand Pit after high school while chipping away at his associate of arts degree from Dodge City Community College. Coming to Fort Hays State was the next step in furthering his education.Despite Mike’s original plan to attend Fort Hays State for the social aspect, he was also serious about his education. This get-to-work attitude helped him earn his business degree from FHSU in 1983 and land a job as a foreman at J-A-G Construction in southwest Kansas following graduation.“Mike was the type of person who would do anything in the world for you and help you in any way he could. But you better take care of business. He believed that if you didn't have time to do it right, when would you have time to do it again?” said Patty.Shortly before Mike’s passing in 2022, he visited FHSU’s campus to see the newly constructed Center for Applied Technology building and meet students pursuing similar careers. Kim Stewart, Department of Applied Technology Chair, brought a glimmer to Mike’s eyes when he shared more about some of the hands-on internships students were participating in. &nbsp;When he met with applied technology students two years ago, Mike had already become a member of the Fort Hays State University Wooster Society. Named for FHSU’s fourth president, the Wooster Society honors individuals who have chosen to leave a legacy through planned giving. Mike understood the importance of paying it forward and supporting students as they prepared for careers in construction management.During the April reception on campus, Patty and Eldon had an opportunity to meet one of those students, Bryson Rupp.Bryson recently graduated from Fort Hays State with a Bachelor of Science in technology studies with an emphasis in construction management. Though he never met Mike, his life impacted Bryson, who was hired thanks to a connection he made while at a career fair that Mike and Kim collaborated on creating.&nbsp;“Mike Morgison’s legacy will be that of opportunities. We, the students of applied technology, are immensely grateful to him for this legacy of opening doors. Many future construction management students will benefit from this generous gift,” said Bryson.Patty closed her remarks by sharing Mike’s hope for the students his scholarship will impact.“Mike’s dream was to provide a scholarship to people like him, who weren’t afraid to work hard, get down in the dirt, play in the concrete, never give up, and see the future,” said Patty.Make a difference in students’ lives. Becoming a Wooster Society member like Mike is only one option for leaving a legacy at Fort Hays State. If you’re thinking about leaving your mark on an area of campus, the FHSU Foundation team would happily schedule a no-obligation meeting to discuss options that meet your needs. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, call 785-628-5620, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;to learn more.