By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Two weeks ago, my newspaper article was on performance of N-fixing products in crop production. N-Fixing organisms, usually species of bacteria, have the ability to ‘fix’ nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere where it is abundant as N2 gas, and convert it to plant available N. Legumes such as soybeans, and alfalfa are able to do this.

Lately, biological-based products have been marketed to enhance crop production. One class of products essentially consists of seed inoculants whose marketers claim they will either infect the seed, which enables them to perform N-Fixation functions similar to Rhizobia in legumes, or to inhabit the immediate soil outside the root (the rhizosphere) and use plant-root exudates as food-stuffs, enabling the N-fixing organisms to fix N from the air.

Trials to determine the yield benefit from one or more of these products added to different rates of N fertilizer were conducted by researchers from most of the land-grant universities in the North Central Region of the U.S. through the 2022 growing season to determine their possible value to farmers. If you missed that article go to Hays or Great Bend Post and type my name into search posts.

One of the results of publishing the compilation of research trials has been an opening of communication by the lead author with other startups of N-fixing organisms in the US and in Europe. The author has visited with representatives and scientists from these industries, and has discussed with them what might be done to improve their chances in the marketplace when they decide the product is ready to sell. The discussions always settled on four points. The N-fixing bacteria are living organisms:

The organisms need to be kept alive through transportation and storage intervals between manufacturer, shipper, warehouses, distributor, dealer, and finally on farm storage before use. There should be a method of analysis developed to determine whether the organism is alive and functioning in the soil/plant after application. The organism should be able to ‘win a war’ with other native microorganisms in order to survive and perform its function. The organism should be adapted to variable moisture, variable soil pH and variable soil salts in order to perform its function.

Although the firms that manufacture these products were convinced that when the product left the point of manufacture, that the organisms are alive, they all are concerned of the viability by the time they reached the point of field application.

Presently, according to industry people that the author of the research compilation has visited with, there are no quick assays or analyses available to determine whether the organisms in the container, in the soil or plant are alive and functioning in the manner they need to function to benefit the end- user. These tests need to be developed to support the product and provide confidence to the farmer that the product is performing.

To date, land-grant researchers associated with the Committee of Specialized Soil Amendments and Products, Growth Stimulants, and Soil Fertility Management Programs have found a low frequency of N fertilizer rate replacement from the application of commercial N-Fixing bacterial products to corn. It is possible that future related products might be beneficial if manufacturers consider ways to maintain viability of the organisms from point of production to point of field application, are able to assay organism activity in the field, and screen organisms for their ability to compete with other soil organisms and remain active in a wide range of possible soil environments.

Farmers should strive to be curious regarding new products, but also to be skeptical; testing products of interest in replicated trials on their farms.

If you would like to discuss or have questions on how to conduct replicated trials on your farms, feel free to give me a call 785-628-9430.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictTwo weeks ago, my newspaper article was on performance of N-fixing products in crop production. N-Fixing organisms, usually species of bacteria, have the ability to ‘fix’ nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere where it is abundant as N2 gas, and convert it to plant available N. Legumes such as soybeans, and alfalfa are able to do this.Lately, biological-based products have been marketed to enhance crop production. One class of products essentially consists of seed inoculants whose marketers claim they will either infect the seed, which enables them to perform N-Fixation functions similar to Rhizobia in legumes, or to inhabit the immediate soil outside the root (the rhizosphere) and use plant-root exudates as food-stuffs, enabling the N-fixing organisms to fix N from the air.Trials to determine the yield benefit from one or more of these products added to different rates of N fertilizer were conducted by researchers from most of the land-grant universities in the North Central Region of the U.S. through the 2022 growing season to determine their possible value to farmers. If you missed that article go to Hays or Great Bend Post and type my name into search posts.One of the results of publishing the compilation of research trials has been an opening of communication by the lead author with other startups of N-fixing organisms in the US and in Europe. The author has visited with representatives and scientists from these industries, and has discussed with them what might be done to improve their chances in the marketplace when they decide the product is ready to sell. The discussions always settled on four points. The N-fixing bacteria are living organisms:The organisms need to be kept alive through transportation and storage intervals between manufacturer, shipper, warehouses, distributor, dealer, and finally on farm storage before use. There should be a method of analysis developed to determine whether the organism is alive and functioning in the soil/plant after application. The organism should be able to ‘win a war’ with other native microorganisms in order to survive and perform its function. The organism should be adapted to variable moisture, variable soil pH and variable soil salts in order to perform its function.Although the firms that manufacture these products were convinced that when the product left the point of manufacture, that the organisms are alive, they all are concerned of the viability by the time they reached the point of field application.Presently, according to industry people that the author of the research compilation has visited with, there are no quick assays or analyses available to determine whether the organisms in the container, in the soil or plant are alive and functioning in the manner they need to function to benefit the end- user. These tests need to be developed to support the product and provide confidence to the farmer that the product is performing.To date, land-grant researchers associated with the Committee of Specialized Soil Amendments and Products, Growth Stimulants, and Soil Fertility Management Programs have found a low frequency of N fertilizer rate replacement from the application of commercial N-Fixing bacterial products to corn. It is possible that future related products might be beneficial if manufacturers consider ways to maintain viability of the organisms from point of production to point of field application, are able to assay organism activity in the field, and screen organisms for their ability to compete with other soil organisms and remain active in a wide range of possible soil environments.Farmers should strive to be curious regarding new products, but also to be skeptical; testing products of interest in replicated trials on their farms.If you would like to discuss or have questions on how to conduct replicated trials on your farms, feel free to give me a call 785-628-9430.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Performance of N-Fixing products in crop production conclusions

<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/2024/6/1717779593585.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

Combines started rolling in southern Kansas over the past few days after barely getting started last week. Harvest started earlier than normal because the wheat has matured early and farmers are trying to beat upcoming storms.

Overall, yields are better than expected in the area. Although the first quarter of the year was very dry, recent rainfall has helped with grain fill, and this year’s crop is looking to be much better than last year’s dismal crop. Initial reports of test weights are 62 to 63 pounds per bushel, and proteins are averaging 11 to 12 percent.

USDA/NASS estimated the crop at 267.9 million bushels in its May 1 forecast. Their June 1 estimate will be issued next week. Last year’s Kansas wheat harvest resulted in 201.25 million bushels, with abandonment at 29 percent, the highest since 1951.

Wheat crop conditions in Kansas as of June 2 were 34 percent poor to very poor, 32 percent fair and 34 percent good to excellent.&nbsp;Mature was 25%, well ahead of 1% both last year and average.

Harvest is expected to progress over the weekend, although scattered rains, thunderstorms, wind and hail are in the forecast.

We look forward to hearing your harvest stories and seeing harvest photos using&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_78UO-ulTKH1clYsPaC1lFxYxO6g6HJTPRuj0aSnn9GkQXJ-aLKCNtjBA4NsCKa89IaTYZwI5syrFWEPBY4ipBrzUfPcd_4I8KkYqZiZbCltRctZ5RwSoBOnq00hbpf-DzQ-cWdpHL72YamTpv1IBLKzYDyyUWwRkEjosJoDnUqBCqEKFdGFdv8=&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">#</a><a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_78UO-ulTKH1clYsPaC1lFxYxO6g6HJTPRuj0aSnn9GkQXJ-aLKCNtjBA4NsCKa89IaTYZwI5syrFWEPBY4ipBrzUfPcd_4I8KkYqZiZbCltRctZ5RwSoBOnq00hbpf-DzQ-cWdpHL72YamTpv1IBLKzYDyyUWwRkEjosJoDnUqBCqEKFdGFdv8=&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_3W7aMVl-Kowt4623q6XBw8L2MfVMqzZdb3bRRJ3DLMkbKJ_aeSHy1QJzUoHJdGiEjPKV18ZylVNxSkLFBGD8Ww2oe4vQD_xJC4SVSf1CXM0VZn1QVRubvU=&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_7VhF7j0EETxrboU2Az_884yi3zen6Sxyj59lUyqTgXOf6Zbi94WSNP19hgU2Cp0-2LWeC7bzs3eNhMpkb6vDFC1rrwFghzvc4Ub-6kFDQDk&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_8uV1I1akDi7GVBIxyjS2IzCowdI10ewxtbeeKO5LJ3lJHLbPLOldT8lXsgWL6bcPRq7Q001cuBSxduh4Cq0O2mrRn_c3OlJl1-dr3ByPQTQ&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599008537219.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas WheatCombines started rolling in southern Kansas over the past few days after barely getting started last week. Harvest started earlier than normal because the wheat has matured early and farmers are trying to beat upcoming storms.Overall, yields are better than expected in the area. Although the first quarter of the year was very dry, recent rainfall has helped with grain fill, and this year’s crop is looking to be much better than last year’s dismal crop. Initial reports of test weights are 62 to 63 pounds per bushel, and proteins are averaging 11 to 12 percent.USDA/NASS estimated the crop at 267.9 million bushels in its May 1 forecast. Their June 1 estimate will be issued next week. Last year’s Kansas wheat harvest resulted in 201.25 million bushels, with abandonment at 29 percent, the highest since 1951.Wheat crop conditions in Kansas as of June 2 were 34 percent poor to very poor, 32 percent fair and 34 percent good to excellent.&nbsp;Mature was 25%, well ahead of 1% both last year and average.Harvest is expected to progress over the weekend, although scattered rains, thunderstorms, wind and hail are in the forecast.We look forward to hearing your harvest stories and seeing harvest photos using&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_78UO-ulTKH1clYsPaC1lFxYxO6g6HJTPRuj0aSnn9GkQXJ-aLKCNtjBA4NsCKa89IaTYZwI5syrFWEPBY4ipBrzUfPcd_4I8KkYqZiZbCltRctZ5RwSoBOnq00hbpf-DzQ-cWdpHL72YamTpv1IBLKzYDyyUWwRkEjosJoDnUqBCqEKFdGFdv8=&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">#</a><a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_78UO-ulTKH1clYsPaC1lFxYxO6g6HJTPRuj0aSnn9GkQXJ-aLKCNtjBA4NsCKa89IaTYZwI5syrFWEPBY4ipBrzUfPcd_4I8KkYqZiZbCltRctZ5RwSoBOnq00hbpf-DzQ-cWdpHL72YamTpv1IBLKzYDyyUWwRkEjosJoDnUqBCqEKFdGFdv8=&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_3W7aMVl-Kowt4623q6XBw8L2MfVMqzZdb3bRRJ3DLMkbKJ_aeSHy1QJzUoHJdGiEjPKV18ZylVNxSkLFBGD8Ww2oe4vQD_xJC4SVSf1CXM0VZn1QVRubvU=&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_7VhF7j0EETxrboU2Az_884yi3zen6Sxyj59lUyqTgXOf6Zbi94WSNP19hgU2Cp0-2LWeC7bzs3eNhMpkb6vDFC1rrwFghzvc4Ub-6kFDQDk&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010-1Mlquib_uQwR_rE3D8MgF1KsOuigncGcNcI6NrzmikyunTmywo_8uV1I1akDi7GVBIxyjS2IzCowdI10ewxtbeeKO5LJ3lJHLbPLOldT8lXsgWL6bcPRq7Q001cuBSxduh4Cq0O2mrRn_c3OlJl1-dr3ByPQTQ&amp;c=xA9L8qF9HTDqoCsePK8Xg-VkGbx2QOc0TAa-RBpLgqqhrx5mzPwDrA==&amp;ch=LTAUHwdySzDVKSeD4rGAY8jffKczHOBx6JFsu5aa69XW-AonfQivwg==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Kansas wheat harvest begins in southern Kansas

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

This past week, Tamara and I had the opportunity to take seven Cottonwood 4-H Youth to Discovery Days at K-State. This three-day event lets 4-H youth from 13-18 explore career ideas, expand project knowledge, and experience navigating campus for a variety of classes. Additionally, they experience staying in the dorms and meals at the dining center. It is a great time to meet new friends, catch up with 4-H members from across the state, and have fun!

For the past few years, a special event has been scheduled to coincide with Discovery Days. Emerald Circle recognizes the top project record in each of the 4-H project categories. A special reception is held for award winners and their families along with Kansas 4-H Foundation donors. Following the reception, all of the Discovery Day participants are invited to celebrate the award winners and hear an address focused on leadership.

Project records are an important part of 4-H learning opportunities and progress from evaluation at a local level to regional competition. From the regional competition, one record book from each project area is promoted to state competition so the quality level of these project records is very high!

Jonas Kern is a member of the Ellinwood Energizers 4-H Club and is the state project award winner for the Wildlife project. Evaluators at every level were very impressed with his level of activity and leadership across this project. As a Kansas 4-H Project Award winner, Jonas is invited to attend the 2024 National 4-H Congress to be held in Atlanta GA in November.

Jonas is a 10-year 4-H member and involved in a wide variety of projects from meat goats to fiber arts to leadership to, of course, wildlife! His parents are Joseph and Amanda Kern and his siblings are Russell and Maggie. Please join me in congratulating Jonas on this excellent accomplishment!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179500533.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictThis past week, Tamara and I had the opportunity to take seven Cottonwood 4-H Youth to Discovery Days at K-State. This three-day event lets 4-H youth from 13-18 explore career ideas, expand project knowledge, and experience navigating campus for a variety of classes. Additionally, they experience staying in the dorms and meals at the dining center. It is a great time to meet new friends, catch up with 4-H members from across the state, and have fun!For the past few years, a special event has been scheduled to coincide with Discovery Days. Emerald Circle recognizes the top project record in each of the 4-H project categories. A special reception is held for award winners and their families along with Kansas 4-H Foundation donors. Following the reception, all of the Discovery Day participants are invited to celebrate the award winners and hear an address focused on leadership.Project records are an important part of 4-H learning opportunities and progress from evaluation at a local level to regional competition. From the regional competition, one record book from each project area is promoted to state competition so the quality level of these project records is very high!Jonas Kern is a member of the Ellinwood Energizers 4-H Club and is the state project award winner for the Wildlife project. Evaluators at every level were very impressed with his level of activity and leadership across this project. As a Kansas 4-H Project Award winner, Jonas is invited to attend the 2024 National 4-H Congress to be held in Atlanta GA in November.Jonas is a 10-year 4-H member and involved in a wide variety of projects from meat goats to fiber arts to leadership to, of course, wildlife! His parents are Joseph and Amanda Kern and his siblings are Russell and Maggie. Please join me in congratulating Jonas on this excellent accomplishment!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Emerald circle

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/haysgaragesales.surroundingtowns">Find more information on Facebook, here.</a>

Registration is closed for the citywide garage sale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717777464910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/haysgaragesales.surroundingtowns">Find more information on Facebook, here.</a>Registration is closed for the citywide garage sale.

Hays citywide garage sale set for today, Saturday

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A Wednesday afternoon fire in the northern part of Ellis County
destroyed a baler but quick thinking by the farmer kept the fire from
spreading.

According to Ellis County fire officials, the fire was
reported Wednesday afternoon at Hyacinth Ave. and North Countyline Rd.

The fire was contained to the baler and a bale inside. There
was no damage to the tractor.

According to the incident commander on scene, the quick action
by the farmer, to pull the baler away from the standing wheat, kept the fire
from spreading and there was very little loss of standing wheat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712676789930.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA Wednesday afternoon fire in the northern part of Ellis County
destroyed a baler but quick thinking by the farmer kept the fire from
spreading.According to Ellis County fire officials, the fire was
reported Wednesday afternoon at Hyacinth Ave. and North Countyline Rd.The fire was contained to the baler and a bale inside. There
was no damage to the tractor.According to the incident commander on scene, the quick action
by the farmer, to pull the baler away from the standing wheat, kept the fire
from spreading and there was very little loss of standing wheat.

Wednesday fire destroys baler in north Ellis County

FHSU grad comes back to Hays to tell tale of forensics art in her new book

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Julie Riedel was a 32-year-old college student when she was assigned to create age progression sketches of the BTK serial killer.

By the early '90s, law enforcement had been trying to apprehend BTK for almost 20 years.&nbsp;

In her new book, "The Sketcher," Riedel describes the process of creating the sketches and facets of her own life during BTK's reign of terror.

Riedel's grandparents were from Hays and she has two master's degrees fro Fort Hays State Univeristy. Today she's an art teacher at Wichtia Southeast High School.

She was back in Hays On Wednesday to present a lecture on her new book at the Hays Public Library.

Dennis Rader, the serial killer known as BTK, killed at least 10 people in Wichita and Park City between 1974 and 1991.&nbsp;

BTK stood for bind, torture, kill. Although Rader killed two men and two children, most of Rader's victims were women, which he bound and then suffocated with a plastic bag or manually strangled.

He stole personal items from the victim's homes, including underwear, and sent taunting letters to the news media, which described his crimes.

He resumed sending letters in 2004 and was finally arrested in 2005.

At the time of his arrest, Rader was married and had a daughter and son. He had worked as a dogcatcher and compliance officer in Park City. He had been president of his church council and a Cub Scout leader.

He is serving 10 consecutive&nbsp;life sentences&nbsp;at the&nbsp;El Dorado Correctional Facility.

Riedel read from the first chapter of her book Wednesday, which described how she became involved in the BTK case.

Riedel was finishing her art degree at Wichita State University and had been approved for an independent study in forensics art.

Despite encouragement from her professor at WSU, Riedel doubted her abilities.

"I was unexperienced dealing with people in authority like the people at the Wichita Police Department," she read from her book.&nbsp; ... "I was scared shitless, quaking in my well-worn boots at the prospect of walking into the Wichita Police Department. So few people had believed in me in my life, I doubted that professional criminologists would take me seriously."

She said she had no idea she was going to be asked to draw a serial killer. She thought she might be assigned a theft suspect, but the police were so desperate for any information to lead to the arrest of BTK that they were willing to take a chance.

After arriving at the Wichita Police Department, the officer in charge of the case brought her a two-wheel dolly with the case files on the BTK killer and ushered Riedel into a musty storage room to spread out the files.

Officer Landwehr explained that he wanted Riedel to use the sketches and flipbook images from witnesses to create an image of what BTK might have looked like at 26 and 46.&nbsp;

These were to include versions of the suspect bald, with facial hair and without and with glasses.

This type of age progression drawing had never been done before. This was a time before AI or widespread internet use that could be used for research.

"I was speechless. The crimes committed by the BTK were the stuff of nightmares in the Wichita metropolitan area," she read from her book.

"No one knew who he was. Suspicion reined in and around the city," Riedel said. "He could have been your next-door neighbor, your electrician, your telephone repair man, or the guy staring at you in the grocery store, and I thought about that all of the time when I went to the grocery store," she said.

Riedel, who had two small children, insisted that her name never be used in connection with the sketches.

"At that moment, I accepted the assignment," she read from her book. "I didn't understand how much the decision would change my life."

The drawings took Riedel about three to four months to complete.

She took her first clues from an image that was created from the account of a firefighter who had been standing behind Dennis Rader when he made a payphone call to KWCH Channel 12 in Wichita.

He was so frightened by the experience he had to be hypnotized to help him describe the suspect.

She started with the eyes, which was counter to what she had been taught as an artist. She thought about BTK. Would he be stressed? Would he be happy, delighting in his killing?

She considered how bone structure and facial muscles would change as a person aged. She took clues from her life drawing classes as well as the studies of Leonardo da Vinci.

Da Vinci raided graves to discet human bodies so he could better understand their muscles and skeletal structures. With no internet, this study all had to be done at the library using books.

She started to look at people differently. She saw the killer everywhere. 

"Is that him? Is that him? Wait, he has that feature," she said.

She started having nightmares about BTK slipping a plastic bag over her head to suffocate her—his face becoming more complete as she neared completion of the sketches.

When the sketches were complete and returned to the Wichita Police Department, they were distributed to all local media outlets, nationwide and ultimately worldwide.

As the police finally started to close in on Rader, Riedel was asked to bring the sketches back to the police department. The media was swarming the WPD, waiting for the big break.

As Riedel was leaving the police department, she saw Rader in the parking garage.

He was reveling in the media circus gathered at the WPD office. He had his hood up on his car. He didn't know her or know she had done the drawings, but his eyes locked with Riedel's.

She immediately went back into the police department and begged to see Officer Landwehr.

"Please, please, he's out there!" she said.

But&nbsp;Landwehr was in a press conference.

Rader was finally arrested not long after that day.

Riedel was not called to testify in the Rader's prosecution. However, her drawings were entered into evidence as exhibit 13.

"There's so many things that I got to learn from drawing the BTK," she said. "It's overwhelming sometimes to think about it. I was scared all of the time. It's a very scary thing, and I was scared for my children."

She said she decided to write the book now, with the help of a ghostwriter, as a means of healing.

"We came from a pretty rough family. We all made it. We all love each other. We're all close. We had a pretty rough upbringing, and that's part of what the book's about," she said. "I parallel the book with my life at that time."

She said the book was difficult to write.

"You find find a way to forgive when you write it down," she said.

She continues to teach and hopes to encourage her students to seize opportunities as she did in the BTK case.

"My passion is art and helping others succeed," she said. "I firmly believe in helping kids figure out what's in their heart and what they want to do in their lives.

"So many kids are lost, and they don't know what to do. I help them get scholarships too, as well as be an art teacher."

Riedel continues to be contacted by law enforcement to assist with cases.&nbsp;

She has also been contacted by producers interested in turning her book into a movie.

You can learn more about Riedel, her book and her art at <a href="http://thesketcher.org">thesketcher.org</a> and <a href="http://riedelartstudio.com">riedelartstudio.com</a>

She has an exhibit on display now at Gallery 12 in Wichita.

Her original BTK sketches are for sale. Her book can be purchased at major book retailers across the country.

<h2>FHSU grad comes back to Hays to tell tale of forensics art in her new book</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717695711622.png" alt="Julie Riedel's original sketches of the BTK serial killer from her book "The Sketcher." Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Julie Riedel's original sketches of the BTK serial killer from her book "The Sketcher." Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692794360261.png" alt="Dennis Rader's mug shot at the time of his incarceration. Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Rader's mug shot at the time of his incarceration. Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="'The Sketcher' describes creating age progression drawings of BTK serial killer" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ys6q4-1635338-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostJulie Riedel was a 32-year-old college student when she was assigned to create age progression sketches of the BTK serial killer.By the early '90s, law enforcement had been trying to apprehend BTK for almost 20 years.&nbsp;In her new book, "The Sketcher," Riedel describes the process of creating the sketches and facets of her own life during BTK's reign of terror.Riedel's grandparents were from Hays and she has two master's degrees fro Fort Hays State Univeristy. Today she's an art teacher at Wichtia Southeast High School.She was back in Hays On Wednesday to present a lecture on her new book at the Hays Public Library.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717696214310.jpeg" alt="Artist Julie Riedel reading from her book "The Sketcher" at the Hays Public Library. Behind her is an image of one of BTK's victims being removed from a home in Wichita. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artist Julie Riedel reading from her book "The Sketcher" at the Hays Public Library. Behind her is an image of one of BTK's victims being removed from a home in Wichita. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Rader, the serial killer known as BTK, killed at least 10 people in Wichita and Park City between 1974 and 1991.&nbsp;BTK stood for bind, torture, kill. Although Rader killed two men and two children, most of Rader's victims were women, which he bound and then suffocated with a plastic bag or manually strangled.He stole personal items from the victim's homes, including underwear, and sent taunting letters to the news media, which described his crimes.He resumed sending letters in 2004 and was finally arrested in 2005.At the time of his arrest, Rader was married and had a daughter and son. He had worked as a dogcatcher and compliance officer in Park City. He had been president of his church council and a Cub Scout leader.He is serving 10 consecutive&nbsp;life sentences&nbsp;at the&nbsp;El Dorado Correctional Facility.Riedel read from the first chapter of her book Wednesday, which described how she became involved in the BTK case.Riedel was finishing her art degree at Wichita State University and had been approved for an independent study in forensics art.Despite encouragement from her professor at WSU, Riedel doubted her abilities."I was unexperienced dealing with people in authority like the people at the Wichita Police Department," she read from her book.&nbsp; ... "I was scared shitless, quaking in my well-worn boots at the prospect of walking into the Wichita Police Department. So few people had believed in me in my life, I doubted that professional criminologists would take me seriously."She said she had no idea she was going to be asked to draw a serial killer. She thought she might be assigned a theft suspect, but the police were so desperate for any information to lead to the arrest of BTK that they were willing to take a chance.After arriving at the Wichita Police Department, the officer in charge of the case brought her a two-wheel dolly with the case files on the BTK killer and ushered Riedel into a musty storage room to spread out the files.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717696529140.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Officer Landwehr explained that he wanted Riedel to use the sketches and flipbook images from witnesses to create an image of what BTK might have looked like at 26 and 46.&nbsp;These were to include versions of the suspect bald, with facial hair and without and with glasses.This type of age progression drawing had never been done before. This was a time before AI or widespread internet use that could be used for research."I was speechless. The crimes committed by the BTK were the stuff of nightmares in the Wichita metropolitan area," she read from her book."No one knew who he was. Suspicion reined in and around the city," Riedel said. "He could have been your next-door neighbor, your electrician, your telephone repair man, or the guy staring at you in the grocery store, and I thought about that all of the time when I went to the grocery store," she said.Riedel, who had two small children, insisted that her name never be used in connection with the sketches.She was referred to as The Sketcher."At that moment, I accepted the assignment," she read from her book. "I didn't understand how much the decision would change my life."The drawings took Riedel about three to four months to complete.She took her first clues from an image that was created from the account of a firefighter who had been standing behind Dennis Rader when he made a payphone call to KWCH Channel 12 in Wichita.He was so frightened by the experience he had to be hypnotized to help him describe the suspect.She started with the eyes, which was counter to what she had been taught as an artist. She thought about BTK. Would he be stressed? Would he be happy, delighting in his killing?She considered how bone structure and facial muscles would change as a person aged. She took clues from her life drawing classes as well as the studies of Leonardo da Vinci.Da Vinci raided graves to discet human bodies so he could better understand their muscles and skeletal structures. With no internet, this study all had to be done at the library using books.She started to look at people differently. She saw the killer everywhere. "Is that him? Is that him? Wait, he has that feature," she said.She started having nightmares about BTK slipping a plastic bag over her head to suffocate her—his face becoming more complete as she neared completion of the sketches.When the sketches were complete and returned to the Wichita Police Department, they were distributed to all local media outlets, nationwide and ultimately worldwide.As the police finally started to close in on Rader, Riedel was asked to bring the sketches back to the police department. The media was swarming the WPD, waiting for the big break.As Riedel was leaving the police department, she saw Rader in the parking garage.He was reveling in the media circus gathered at the WPD office. He had his hood up on his car. He didn't know her or know she had done the drawings, but his eyes locked with Riedel's.She immediately went back into the police department and begged to see Officer Landwehr."Please, please, he's out there!" she said.But&nbsp;Landwehr was in a press conference.Rader was finally arrested not long after that day.Riedel was not called to testify in the Rader's prosecution. However, her drawings were entered into evidence as exhibit 13.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699542917523.png" alt="Dennis Rader's most recent mug shot. He is serving 10 consecutive life sentences at the El Dorado Correction Facility. Photo courtesy of the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Rader's most recent mug shot. He is serving 10 consecutive life sentences at the El Dorado Correction Facility. Photo courtesy of the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>"There's so many things that I got to learn from drawing the BTK," she said. "It's overwhelming sometimes to think about it. I was scared all of the time. It's a very scary thing, and I was scared for my children."She said she decided to write the book now, with the help of a ghostwriter, as a means of healing."We came from a pretty rough family. We all made it. We all love each other. We're all close. We had a pretty rough upbringing, and that's part of what the book's about," she said. "I parallel the book with my life at that time."She said the book was difficult to write."You find find a way to forgive when you write it down," she said.She continues to teach and hopes to encourage her students to seize opportunities as she did in the BTK case."My passion is art and helping others succeed," she said. "I firmly believe in helping kids figure out what's in their heart and what they want to do in their lives."So many kids are lost, and they don't know what to do. I help them get scholarships too, as well as be an art teacher."Riedel continues to be contacted by law enforcement to assist with cases.&nbsp;She has also been contacted by producers interested in turning her book into a movie.You can learn more about Riedel, her book and her art at <a href="http://thesketcher.org">thesketcher.org</a> and <a href="http://riedelartstudio.com">riedelartstudio.com</a>She has an exhibit on display now at Gallery 12 in Wichita.Her original BTK sketches are for sale. Her book can be purchased at major book retailers across the country.

🎙'The Sketcher' describes creating age progression drawings of BTK serial killer

Join the Cancer Council of Ellis County during the Hays Summer Art Walk at Defiance Brewery Downtown for the In Defiance of Cancer Fundraiser&nbsp;from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 21.&nbsp;

We will host local artists Kurt and Ashley Breshears for the Art Walk. 

Grand prizes are “Sweet Disposition” Cast Iron and Steel piece by Ashley and “Lecture Notes” Cast Iron and Wood piece by Kurt. Other prizes are VIP tickets to Wild West Festival, Royals tickets, FHSU Season Football tickets and Zoom Whitening certificate. 

See flyer above for list of all prizes and ticket information.

 Mail your tickets to the Cancer Council of Ellis County, 701 Riley St., Hays KS 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717615448094.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedJoin the Cancer Council of Ellis County during the Hays Summer Art Walk at Defiance Brewery Downtown for the In Defiance of Cancer Fundraiser&nbsp;from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 21.&nbsp;We will host local artists Kurt and Ashley Breshears for the Art Walk. Grand prizes are “Sweet Disposition” Cast Iron and Steel piece by Ashley and “Lecture Notes” Cast Iron and Wood piece by Kurt. Other prizes are VIP tickets to Wild West Festival, Royals tickets, FHSU Season Football tickets and Zoom Whitening certificate. See flyer above for list of all prizes and ticket information. Mail your tickets to the Cancer Council of Ellis County, 701 Riley St., Hays KS 67601.

 In Defiance of Cancer fundraiser planned

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

HAYS, Kan. - Since its early days as a “normal school,” or teacher’s college, FHSU has gone by several names: Western Branch of the Kansas Normal School, Fort Hays State Kansas State Normal School, Kansas State Teachers College of Hays, and Fort Hays State College. One central fact that has been at the core of all these changes is that Fort Hays State has been training teachers for more than 120 years. Our Department of Teacher Education signs nearly 1,000 teaching license applications annually.

Rising senior Josie Gage, a pathfinding future teacher, is from Maple City in Cowley County, Kansas. She knew at an early age that she learned best and thoroughly enjoyed hands-on learning, especially building things out of wood in shop class.

“I made all sorts of furniture in high school shop class,” Josie said. “I made a nightstand, a dresser, and bookshelves. For my senior project, I designed and built my own desk.”

Initially, Josie wanted to be an architecture major and began her college career with this in mind. She quickly realized the program would not be as hands-on or give her the opportunity to make the impact she wanted.

“The first year in the program mostly involved manual drafting and learning the basic principles of architecture,” Josie said.

Her desire to make an impact on others was a big factor in her decision to transfer. She thought she might be able to make that impact as a teacher. Josie shared her frustration with her boss in the Architecture Department’s construction shop, where she worked as a student employee. Like her high school shop teacher, her boss happened to be a graduate of FHSU’s Applied Technology program.

Josie decided that she wanted to be a shop teacher because she’d seen through her own experiences that it can be a daunting subject for most students. “My goal is to change that for my students, no matter how long they are in my classroom,” Josie said.

She had heard about the FHSU program from her high school shop teacher. When Josie visited FHSU with her dad and brother, she loved what she found.

I call Josie a pathfinder for several reasons. She is currently the only female enrolled in the technology and engineering program and in a degree track that will lead to becoming a teacher.

She is also a pathfinder in how she dove into a student leadership role in the Applied Technology Department.

Since transferring to FHSU in 2022, she has served as an officer in the university’s Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) chapter. Josie then successfully applied to join TEECA’s National Student Officer Team and served as the President-Elect for the 2023-2024 school year, where she helped organize TEECA events for the annual International

Technology and Engineering Educators (ITEEA) conference in Memphis, Tennessee. She will serve as president for the 2024-2025 academic year and will be leading the team to prepare for the 2025 ITEEA conference in St. Louis, Missouri.

Zach Pixler, an assistant professor in the Department of Applied Technology, said this of Josie: “She has become an integral part of our organization. Her work ethic, attention to detail, and organization skills, along with her ability to foster positive relationships with her peers, make her a very strong leader.”

This remarkable young woman is also a pathfinder in the way she has represented FHSU in typically male-dominated national competitions in her chosen discipline. At the most recent ITEEA conference in March, she was awarded the ITEEA Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship and earned National Champion honors in the Teaching Lesson competition. Her winning lesson involved amplifying the soundwaves from a cell phone playing Elvis Presley's music by placing the phone in a laser-cut all-wood box amplifier.

Josie looks forward to the opportunity to make a difference in her classroom, community, and professional field. This fall, she will complete a 40-hour internship observing a shop teacher in a secondary school. Next spring, Josie will complete her capstone student teaching experience. She wants to do that close to Hays so she can remain involved in TEECA and her Applied Technology community at FHSU.

Josie will graduate in May 2025. She is very well-prepared for her career and ready to serve where she is most needed. And thanks to FHSU’s commitment to affordability and several scholarships Josie earned, including the Kansas Board of Regents funded Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, she will graduate debt-free.

“I really want to get through college debt-free. And as it stands now, I'm gonna make it,” Josie said.

Originally, Josie didn’t see herself as a pathfinder. She picked this academic degree and career path because she just wanted to be happy. Since then, she’s realized the great need for role models like her in technology education, especially for women.

“I want to show my students that a career involving building cool stuff is a great choice, but one that involves teaching students to become builders themselves is an even better one.”

Simply put, Josie wants to serve as a champion for promoting teaching technology and engineering education as a rewarding career choice.

“Even if I never find someone like me in this field, I still want to be that example for others,” Josie said. “I know that as a teacher, I will have the power to change the lives of my students, and with my experiences at FHSU, I will be ready for that challenge.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentHAYS, Kan. - Since its early days as a “normal school,” or teacher’s college, FHSU has gone by several names: Western Branch of the Kansas Normal School, Fort Hays State Kansas State Normal School, Kansas State Teachers College of Hays, and Fort Hays State College. One central fact that has been at the core of all these changes is that Fort Hays State has been training teachers for more than 120 years. Our Department of Teacher Education signs nearly 1,000 teaching license applications annually.Rising senior Josie Gage, a pathfinding future teacher, is from Maple City in Cowley County, Kansas. She knew at an early age that she learned best and thoroughly enjoyed hands-on learning, especially building things out of wood in shop class.“I made all sorts of furniture in high school shop class,” Josie said. “I made a nightstand, a dresser, and bookshelves. For my senior project, I designed and built my own desk.”Initially, Josie wanted to be an architecture major and began her college career with this in mind. She quickly realized the program would not be as hands-on or give her the opportunity to make the impact she wanted.“The first year in the program mostly involved manual drafting and learning the basic principles of architecture,” Josie said.Her desire to make an impact on others was a big factor in her decision to transfer. She thought she might be able to make that impact as a teacher. Josie shared her frustration with her boss in the Architecture Department’s construction shop, where she worked as a student employee. Like her high school shop teacher, her boss happened to be a graduate of FHSU’s Applied Technology program.Josie decided that she wanted to be a shop teacher because she’d seen through her own experiences that it can be a daunting subject for most students. “My goal is to change that for my students, no matter how long they are in my classroom,” Josie said.She had heard about the FHSU program from her high school shop teacher. When Josie visited FHSU with her dad and brother, she loved what she found.I call Josie a pathfinder for several reasons. She is currently the only female enrolled in the technology and engineering program and in a degree track that will lead to becoming a teacher.She is also a pathfinder in how she dove into a student leadership role in the Applied Technology Department.Since transferring to FHSU in 2022, she has served as an officer in the university’s Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) chapter. Josie then successfully applied to join TEECA’s National Student Officer Team and served as the President-Elect for the 2023-2024 school year, where she helped organize TEECA events for the annual InternationalTechnology and Engineering Educators (ITEEA) conference in Memphis, Tennessee. She will serve as president for the 2024-2025 academic year and will be leading the team to prepare for the 2025 ITEEA conference in St. Louis, Missouri.Zach Pixler, an assistant professor in the Department of Applied Technology, said this of Josie: “She has become an integral part of our organization. Her work ethic, attention to detail, and organization skills, along with her ability to foster positive relationships with her peers, make her a very strong leader.”This remarkable young woman is also a pathfinder in the way she has represented FHSU in typically male-dominated national competitions in her chosen discipline. At the most recent ITEEA conference in March, she was awarded the ITEEA Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship and earned National Champion honors in the Teaching Lesson competition. Her winning lesson involved amplifying the soundwaves from a cell phone playing Elvis Presley's music by placing the phone in a laser-cut all-wood box amplifier.Josie looks forward to the opportunity to make a difference in her classroom, community, and professional field. This fall, she will complete a 40-hour internship observing a shop teacher in a secondary school. Next spring, Josie will complete her capstone student teaching experience. She wants to do that close to Hays so she can remain involved in TEECA and her Applied Technology community at FHSU.Josie will graduate in May 2025. She is very well-prepared for her career and ready to serve where she is most needed. And thanks to FHSU’s commitment to affordability and several scholarships Josie earned, including the Kansas Board of Regents funded Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, she will graduate debt-free.“I really want to get through college debt-free. And as it stands now, I'm gonna make it,” Josie said.Originally, Josie didn’t see herself as a pathfinder. She picked this academic degree and career path because she just wanted to be happy. Since then, she’s realized the great need for role models like her in technology education, especially for women.“I want to show my students that a career involving building cool stuff is a great choice, but one that involves teaching students to become builders themselves is an even better one.”Simply put, Josie wants to serve as a champion for promoting teaching technology and engineering education as a rewarding career choice.“Even if I never find someone like me in this field, I still want to be that example for others,” Josie said. “I know that as a teacher, I will have the power to change the lives of my students, and with my experiences at FHSU, I will be ready for that challenge.”

Heart of a Tiger: Meet Josie Gage, a pathfinding future teacher

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717698926759.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>

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about development projects in Hays.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses Hays development projects" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2jgf4-1635325-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about development projects in Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses Hays development projects

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's the nonprofit Downtown Hays Development Corporation's biggest fundraising event of the year, and in 2024, it will undergo some changes.

The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks is set for Saturday, June 15.

For the first time, the 21-and-older event will be in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main. The pavilion will serve as the main sampling tent.

The VIP Lounge is also new this year. From 3:30 to 5 p.m., VIP ticket holders can enjoy brews and bites.

The general admission tasting session for all attendees is from 5 to 8 p.m.

VIP tickets are almost sold out, said Julie Ryder, executive director of DHDC.&nbsp;

"All ticketing is online this year, but we will sell admission at the gate. It's $50 for general admission and $100 for VIP.

"In addition to the food and swag bag full of goodies, the VIP experience includes an exclusive tasting from Boot Hill Distillery of Dodge City in an air-conditioned tent, and you'll have transportation home, courtesy of Diamond Luxury Limos," Ryder said.

Music and games will entertain the general admission crowd, and food vendors will be on site.

"The forecast is showing a warm, sunny day, and it'll be a great day to come down and enjoy this fun event," she said. "Moving under the pavilion will offer shade for the first time and be cooler than when we were on the streets."

More than 100 craft beers from most Kansas craft breweries and brewpubs, as well as beers from many other regional and national craft breweries, will be featured.

For the first time, a stout beer will be available for sampling, along with ale, amber, fruit, Gose, IPA,&nbsp;Kölsch, lager, pilsner, porter, shandy, spiced, sour, and wheat beers, as well as&nbsp;canned cocktails, flavored malt beverages, and seltzers.&nbsp;

Defiance Brewing and Liquid Bread Brewing Company of Hays are among the presenting breweries.

"This is our biggest fundraiser, and we certainly appreciate the community support from our <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/sponsors">sponsors</a> and those who purchase tickets to attend. It helps us keep doing what we do for downtown Hays," Ryder said.

Volunteers are still being accepted and will be furnished with a T-shirt and free lunch.&nbsp;

Tickets and volunteer information are available on the DHDC website at <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/">downtownhays.com</a> under the events tab.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717584201051.png" alt="The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks, the biggest fundraiser for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, is June 15. Photo courtesy of DHDC" />
 <figcaption>The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks, the biggest fundraiser for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, is June 15. Photo courtesy of DHDC</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's the nonprofit Downtown Hays Development Corporation's biggest fundraising event of the year, and in 2024, it will undergo some changes.The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks is set for Saturday, June 15.For the first time, the 21-and-older event will be in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main. The pavilion will serve as the main sampling tent.The VIP Lounge is also new this year. From 3:30 to 5 p.m., VIP ticket holders can enjoy brews and bites.The general admission tasting session for all attendees is from 5 to 8 p.m.VIP tickets are almost sold out, said Julie Ryder, executive director of DHDC.&nbsp;"All ticketing is online this year, but we will sell admission at the gate. It's $50 for general admission and $100 for VIP."In addition to the food and swag bag full of goodies, the VIP experience includes an exclusive tasting from Boot Hill Distillery of Dodge City in an air-conditioned tent, and you'll have transportation home, courtesy of Diamond Luxury Limos," Ryder said.Music and games will entertain the general admission crowd, and food vendors will be on site."The forecast is showing a warm, sunny day, and it'll be a great day to come down and enjoy this fun event," she said. "Moving under the pavilion will offer shade for the first time and be cooler than when we were on the streets."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717609822954.png" alt="Brews on the Bricks in downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Brews on the Bricks in downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>More than 100 craft beers from most Kansas craft breweries and brewpubs, as well as beers from many other regional and national craft breweries, will be featured.For the first time, a stout beer will be available for sampling, along with ale, amber, fruit, Gose, IPA,&nbsp;Kölsch, lager, pilsner, porter, shandy, spiced, sour, and wheat beers, as well as&nbsp;canned cocktails, flavored malt beverages, and seltzers.&nbsp;Defiance Brewing and Liquid Bread Brewing Company of Hays are among the presenting breweries."This is our biggest fundraiser, and we certainly appreciate the community support from our <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/sponsors">sponsors</a> and those who purchase tickets to attend. It helps us keep doing what we do for downtown Hays," Ryder said.Volunteers are still being accepted and will be furnished with a T-shirt and free lunch.&nbsp;Tickets and volunteer information are available on the DHDC website at <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/">downtownhays.com</a> under the events tab.&nbsp;

Brews on Bricks brings 100+ beers to Downtown Hays Development Corp. fundraiser

The Heartland Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Give Fest 2024, a 24-hour giving event that unites Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties in a shared mission to support local nonprofit organizations.

Save the date for Oct. 10. This exciting day is designed to increase philanthropy, energize community spirit and spotlight the life-changing work of our local nonprofits.

Give Fest was created to galvanize the community to “give back” in a big way. This event not only raises crucial funds for nonprofits but also brings a fun, playful Oktoberfest twist to the giving season, reflecting the cultural heritage of our region.

Mid-October is an ideal time to solicit donations, ensuring that nonprofits have the resources they need to continue their impactful work. We believe that community members, donors and all those involved will enjoy the day-of Oktoberfest giving celebration.

This Oct. 10, from midnight to 11:59 p.m., all donations made to participating organizations will be matched 1:1 or proportionate to the total money raised from a match pool of $150,000 — or $50,000 allocated for each county.

These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation. Subsequently, the community foundation will match these gifts with grants that the nonprofits can use for immediate needs, thus providing both a stable financial future and immediate support.

The match pool was established and strengthened with grant dollars from the Patterson Family Foundation.

The benefits of this community giving day extend beyond the immediate financial boost. For the community, Give Fest fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, highlighting the collective impact of local generosity.

It creates an opportunity for residents to learn more about the vital work being done by nonprofits in their area and to feel more connected and invested in their community’s well-being.

For nonprofits, participating in Give Fest offers several significant advantages, including increased visibility, financial growth through access to matching funds, and deeper community engagement. 

Contributions go to endowed funds, ensuring long-term stability and growth for the organizations. If Give Fest 2024 goes well, HCF hopes to make it an annual event.

Nonprofit organizations, schools and religious institutions serving Ellis, Rooks or Trego counties are invited to participate in Give Fest at no cost. Registration opens July 1.

To be eligible, nonprofits must have an organization, designated or field-of-interest fund at the community foundation and complete the registration process by Aug. 31.

Participating organizations will receive a marketing toolkit from HCF starting July 15 to help them promote their involvement and maximize their outreach.

Two Zoom training sessions are planned for participating agencies on Aug. 5 and Sept. 5. If you work with a nonprofit and have questions, please reach out to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>. We can be available to visit with your agency or board to tell you more about the community foundation and Give Fest.

Donors can participate in several ways: donate online at <a href="http://www.HeartlandGiveFest.org">www.HeartlandGiveFest.org</a> between Oct. 4 and 10. Our special event website will go live on July 15 and will eventually house profile information for each participating nonprofit.

Supporters will also be able to attend and donate in person at special events on Oct. 10, with additional details coming soon; by mailing donations to Heartland Community Foundation (received by Oct. 10), or by dropping off donations at the HCF office at 1200 Main St., Hays, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 10.

Because Oct. 10 is still several months away, HCF is encouraging supporters to urge their favorite charities to register as Give Fest participants. If you want to volunteer to help at the day-of events, please send an email to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.

New fundholders in Rooks and Trego counties are eligible to receive a $2,000 matching incentive, available for the first five new funds in each county. This initiative encourages the establishment of new funds and supports long-term community development.

The Heartland Community Foundation invites everyone to participate in Give Fest 2024. Whether you're a donor looking to make an impact or a nonprofit seeking support, this event is a powerful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of giving. For more information and to get involved, email <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.

Since 2007, the Heartland Community Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties through philanthropy.

As an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, HCF connects donors with the philanthropic causes they love, supporting initiatives in various areas, including education, health care, youth and community development.

By fostering a spirit of generosity and engaging local donors, nonprofits, and community members, HCF aims to create a vibrant, supportive community for all. The Heartland Community Foundation is committed to promoting generosity, building endowment funds, and empowering communities to thrive.

For more information, visit <a href="http://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org">heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.

Heartland Community FoundationThe Heartland Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Give Fest 2024, a 24-hour giving event that unites Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties in a shared mission to support local nonprofit organizations.Save the date for Oct. 10. This exciting day is designed to increase philanthropy, energize community spirit and spotlight the life-changing work of our local nonprofits.Give Fest was created to galvanize the community to “give back” in a big way. This event not only raises crucial funds for nonprofits but also brings a fun, playful Oktoberfest twist to the giving season, reflecting the cultural heritage of our region.Mid-October is an ideal time to solicit donations, ensuring that nonprofits have the resources they need to continue their impactful work. We believe that community members, donors and all those involved will enjoy the day-of Oktoberfest giving celebration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717615565087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This Oct. 10, from midnight to 11:59 p.m., all donations made to participating organizations will be matched 1:1 or proportionate to the total money raised from a match pool of $150,000 — or $50,000 allocated for each county.These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation. Subsequently, the community foundation will match these gifts with grants that the nonprofits can use for immediate needs, thus providing both a stable financial future and immediate support.The match pool was established and strengthened with grant dollars from the Patterson Family Foundation.The benefits of this community giving day extend beyond the immediate financial boost. For the community, Give Fest fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, highlighting the collective impact of local generosity.It creates an opportunity for residents to learn more about the vital work being done by nonprofits in their area and to feel more connected and invested in their community’s well-being.For nonprofits, participating in Give Fest offers several significant advantages, including increased visibility, financial growth through access to matching funds, and deeper community engagement. Contributions go to endowed funds, ensuring long-term stability and growth for the organizations. If Give Fest 2024 goes well, HCF hopes to make it an annual event.Nonprofit organizations, schools and religious institutions serving Ellis, Rooks or Trego counties are invited to participate in Give Fest at no cost. Registration opens July 1.To be eligible, nonprofits must have an organization, designated or field-of-interest fund at the community foundation and complete the registration process by Aug. 31.Participating organizations will receive a marketing toolkit from HCF starting July 15 to help them promote their involvement and maximize their outreach.Two Zoom training sessions are planned for participating agencies on Aug. 5 and Sept. 5. If you work with a nonprofit and have questions, please reach out to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>. We can be available to visit with your agency or board to tell you more about the community foundation and Give Fest.Donors can participate in several ways: donate online at <a href="http://www.HeartlandGiveFest.org">www.HeartlandGiveFest.org</a> between Oct. 4 and 10. Our special event website will go live on July 15 and will eventually house profile information for each participating nonprofit.Supporters will also be able to attend and donate in person at special events on Oct. 10, with additional details coming soon; by mailing donations to Heartland Community Foundation (received by Oct. 10), or by dropping off donations at the HCF office at 1200 Main St., Hays, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 10.Because Oct. 10 is still several months away, HCF is encouraging supporters to urge their favorite charities to register as Give Fest participants. If you want to volunteer to help at the day-of events, please send an email to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.New fundholders in Rooks and Trego counties are eligible to receive a $2,000 matching incentive, available for the first five new funds in each county. This initiative encourages the establishment of new funds and supports long-term community development.The Heartland Community Foundation invites everyone to participate in Give Fest 2024. Whether you're a donor looking to make an impact or a nonprofit seeking support, this event is a powerful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of giving. For more information and to get involved, email <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.<h2>About Heartland Community Foundation</h2>Since 2007, the Heartland Community Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties through philanthropy.As an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, HCF connects donors with the philanthropic causes they love, supporting initiatives in various areas, including education, health care, youth and community development.By fostering a spirit of generosity and engaging local donors, nonprofits, and community members, HCF aims to create a vibrant, supportive community for all. The Heartland Community Foundation is committed to promoting generosity, building endowment funds, and empowering communities to thrive.For more information, visit <a href="http://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org">heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.

Heartland Community Foundation announces Give Fest 2024: Day of generosity, community spirit

First Call for Help is seeking food donations for its pantry.

You have from today until June 14 to help out your favorite business listed above.

 The business that donates the most items will be named the Top Pantry Contributor for 2024. They will also be the new owner of the traveling trophy.

Suggested items to donate&nbsp;(but not limited to):

• Pancake/waffle mix and syrup • Granola/fruit breakfast bars • Oatmeal • Cereal • Individual Coffee/tea /juice packets • Dry milk • Pop-tarts • Ramen • Mac and cheese / hamburger and tuna helper • Spaghetti-o’s / Chef Boyardee products • Dried pasta and canned/jarred sauces • Canned fruit • Peanut butter / jelly • Canned meats (chicken/tuna/roast beef/Vienna sausage etc.) • Canned vegetables • Canned beans • Rice • Crackers (saltines/cracker rounds) • Instant potatoes/ gravy • Applesauce (individual or containers) • Pudding snack packs

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717614495237.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First Call for Help is seeking food donations for its pantry.You have from today until June 14 to help out your favorite business listed above. The business that donates the most items will be named the Top Pantry Contributor for 2024. They will also be the new owner of the traveling trophy.<h2>Suggested items to donate&nbsp;(but not limited to):</h2>• Pancake/waffle mix and syrup • Granola/fruit breakfast bars • Oatmeal • Cereal • Individual Coffee/tea /juice packets • Dry milk • Pop-tarts • Ramen • Mac and cheese / hamburger and tuna helper • Spaghetti-o’s / Chef Boyardee products • Dried pasta and canned/jarred sauces • Canned fruit • Peanut butter / jelly • Canned meats (chicken/tuna/roast beef/Vienna sausage etc.) • Canned vegetables • Canned beans • Rice • Crackers (saltines/cracker rounds) • Instant potatoes/ gravy • Applesauce (individual or containers) • Pudding snack packs

Battle of Businesses seeks to gather food for First Call for Help

One branch of Mom’s family settled in Ford, Kansas, soon after it became a town in 1885. That group migrated to Kansas from Greene County, Indiana, and one family established a boarding house and livery stable. My great-grandmother was one of the first babies born in Ford in 1887.

Growing up, I discovered Ford because I visited the cemetery each year with my grandparents to put out Memorial Day flowers for my grandfather’s maternal and paternal families. Traveling to Ford, our grandparents enchanted us with tales about our ancestors and their struggles to survive in Southwest Kansas.

After we placed flowers on numerous plots, Grandpa drove around town recollecting locations of the schools, church, and homes where he and his many relatives once lived. To finish our journey, he’d cruise north toward the Ark River to check out the condition of the old Hatfield Livery Stable and Boarding House site where his mom grew up. During my lifetime, only the boarding house remained, but grandpa pointed out where the outbuildings and livery once stood. He’d embellish stories about ornery uncles and his grandma who kept them in line.

At that time, I thought I’d forever remember those stories and later on my mother’s so who needed to write stuff down? Now that I’ve joined the oldest generation, I wished I’d recorded those tales in indelible ink. Details once engraved in my brain have dwindled to knowing the location of the boarding house and finding family graves so I can decorate them.

Over the last ten years, something occurring all over rural Kansas has also happened in Ford. Original buildings dwindle away one broken window, fallen brick, and leaky roof at a time. Until recently, a sequence of families continued occupying that aging boarding house. Despite its decline, I loved spying evidence that kids still played in the yard.

Just south of the old house, Grandma pointed out the red brick Hatfield Mercantile building. In one rendition, this building played a role in our Canadian immigrant family connecting with Hatfields who came from Indiana. Somehow—details fade--a shopping trip led to a marriage and later on births of my grandfather and his brother.

Many Memorial Day visits ago, I can’t even recollect which era, I arrived to decorate and make the pilgrimage to the big white house, where I discovered that old store had tumbled into a pile of brick and dust. Only a foundation positioned just north of an insurance office that also functions as the city office remains.

For the past few years, no one has occupied the old Hatfield house, deteriorated to the point I wondered if this was the year I’d find only a foundation when I showed up Memorial Weekend. Though trees grow very near the base, hope prevailed. I spied a blue scaffold on the north side of the house and two replaced upper story windows.

While that old home once so full of busy lives needs considerable work, I hope new windows indicate its salvageability. I like to imagine a family resuscitating this building full of fascinating stories. What tales those walls could tell! If they start talking, I hope listeners write those stories down.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717291484349.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINOne branch of Mom’s family settled in Ford, Kansas, soon after it became a town in 1885. That group migrated to Kansas from Greene County, Indiana, and one family established a boarding house and livery stable. My great-grandmother was one of the first babies born in Ford in 1887.Growing up, I discovered Ford because I visited the cemetery each year with my grandparents to put out Memorial Day flowers for my grandfather’s maternal and paternal families. Traveling to Ford, our grandparents enchanted us with tales about our ancestors and their struggles to survive in Southwest Kansas.After we placed flowers on numerous plots, Grandpa drove around town recollecting locations of the schools, church, and homes where he and his many relatives once lived. To finish our journey, he’d cruise north toward the Ark River to check out the condition of the old Hatfield Livery Stable and Boarding House site where his mom grew up. During my lifetime, only the boarding house remained, but grandpa pointed out where the outbuildings and livery once stood. He’d embellish stories about ornery uncles and his grandma who kept them in line.At that time, I thought I’d forever remember those stories and later on my mother’s so who needed to write stuff down? Now that I’ve joined the oldest generation, I wished I’d recorded those tales in indelible ink. Details once engraved in my brain have dwindled to knowing the location of the boarding house and finding family graves so I can decorate them.Over the last ten years, something occurring all over rural Kansas has also happened in Ford. Original buildings dwindle away one broken window, fallen brick, and leaky roof at a time. Until recently, a sequence of families continued occupying that aging boarding house. Despite its decline, I loved spying evidence that kids still played in the yard.Just south of the old house, Grandma pointed out the red brick Hatfield Mercantile building. In one rendition, this building played a role in our Canadian immigrant family connecting with Hatfields who came from Indiana. Somehow—details fade--a shopping trip led to a marriage and later on births of my grandfather and his brother.Many Memorial Day visits ago, I can’t even recollect which era, I arrived to decorate and make the pilgrimage to the big white house, where I discovered that old store had tumbled into a pile of brick and dust. Only a foundation positioned just north of an insurance office that also functions as the city office remains.For the past few years, no one has occupied the old Hatfield house, deteriorated to the point I wondered if this was the year I’d find only a foundation when I showed up Memorial Weekend. Though trees grow very near the base, hope prevailed. I spied a blue scaffold on the north side of the house and two replaced upper story windows.While that old home once so full of busy lives needs considerable work, I hope new windows indicate its salvageability. I like to imagine a family resuscitating this building full of fascinating stories. What tales those walls could tell! If they start talking, I hope listeners write those stories down.

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