Did someone tell you to buy a gift card and give them the numbers? That’s a scam. Your money was gone the moment you gave someone those gift card numbers. But now, some gift card companies might be able to get your money back.

<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">Gift card scams</a>&nbsp;start with calls, texts, emails, or social media messages. The scammer pretends to be someone they’re not: a company, the government, a family member, or romantic interest. Their message is always urgent. And they want money. They’ll tell you to buy a gift card or maybe multiple gift cards. Once you do, they’ll demand you send a photo of the card or give them the numbers on the back of the card.

But now, some&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">gift card companies</a>&nbsp;are flagging fraudulent transactions and freezing stolen gift card money so that scammers can’t get it. And those gift card companies want to give that money back.

So, if a gift card scam happens to you, act fast:

•<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">Report it</a> to the gift card company. Tell them you were scammed. Give the gift card company the information from your receipt or a copy of the numbers on your gift card.

•Ask for your money back. Once you report a gift card scam to the gift card company, ask for your money back. If the money was frozen or not downloaded by the scammer, some gift card companies will give the money back.&nbsp;

•Tell the FTC at <a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Your report makes a difference and helps #stop scams.&nbsp;

The faster you contact any&nbsp;gift card company to report a gift card scam, the better the chance of getting your money back. But it doesn’t matter when you were scammed with a gift card.

For more information about avoiding and reporting gift card scams, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">ftc.gov/giftcards</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692642926333.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA MIRANDA FTCDid someone tell you to buy a gift card and give them the numbers? That’s a scam. Your money was gone the moment you gave someone those gift card numbers. But now, some gift card companies might be able to get your money back.<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">Gift card scams</a>&nbsp;start with calls, texts, emails, or social media messages. The scammer pretends to be someone they’re not: a company, the government, a family member, or romantic interest. Their message is always urgent. And they want money. They’ll tell you to buy a gift card or maybe multiple gift cards. Once you do, they’ll demand you send a photo of the card or give them the numbers on the back of the card.But now, some&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">gift card companies</a>&nbsp;are flagging fraudulent transactions and freezing stolen gift card money so that scammers can’t get it. And those gift card companies want to give that money back.So, if a gift card scam happens to you, act fast:•<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">Report it</a> to the gift card company. Tell them you were scammed. Give the gift card company the information from your receipt or a copy of the numbers on your gift card.•Ask for your money back. Once you report a gift card scam to the gift card company, ask for your money back. If the money was frozen or not downloaded by the scammer, some gift card companies will give the money back.&nbsp;•Tell the FTC at <a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Your report makes a difference and helps #stop scams.&nbsp;The faster you contact any&nbsp;gift card company to report a gift card scam, the better the chance of getting your money back. But it doesn’t matter when you were scammed with a gift card. For more information about avoiding and reporting gift card scams, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/giftcards">ftc.gov/giftcards</a>.

FTC: If you paid a scammer with a gift card, is your money gone? Maybe not

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

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 </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

The Hays Police Department responded to 87 incidents Aug. 6-12, 2023 according to the HPD activity log.

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 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 87 incidents Aug. 6-12, 2023 according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
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Hays PD activity log, Aug. 6-12

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

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 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>--------------------------------------------------------<figure>
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Hays Police Dept. arrests log, Aug. 6-13

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Crude inventories dropped to their lowest level in seven months. The government reported a 6 million barrel drawdown in U.S. crude stockpiles, reducing inventories to 439.7 million barrels as of Aug. 11. That's about 1 percent below the five-year seasonal average.

Stockpiles rebounded somewhat last week after a historic drawdown of 17 million barrels the week before. The current tally is the lowest since Jan. 11. EIA said crude imports last week rose nearly half a million barrels per day to 7.2 million barrels per day. The four-week average is about 4 percent higher than a year ago. U.S. crude production rose 107,000 barrels per day. The average for the week through Aug. 11 is just short of 12.7 million barrels per day, about half a million barrels per day higher than a year ago. The benchmark Nymex crude-oil contract settled Friday at $81.25 per barrel, posting its first weekly loss since the week of June 23. Prices were holding steady on Monday, with the September Nymex contract trading over $81. London Brent was just a few cents shy of $95 per barrel by midday. Kansas crude prices drop $2 in two weeks and now are equal to the price posted on Aug. 1. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $71.50 per barrel. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 642 active rigs, down five oil rigs and six gas rigs. Louisiana and West Virginia were each down three rigs. North Dakota, Ohio and Oklahoma each dropped by two rigs. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 17 active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up one from last week, and 26 rigs west of Wichita, which is unchanged. Kansas operators have spudded 176 wells so far this year, down 34 wells from last year. Total footage is down 27 percent. Operators completed 33 new wells in Kansas, of which 22 are in western Kansas including one each in Barton, Ellis and Russell counties, and two in Stafford County.&nbsp; Kansas regulators approved 19 new drilling permits this week, 10 of them in western Kansas, including two in Ellis County. An oil tanker suspected of carrying sanctioned crude oil from Iran offloaded its cargo near Texas over the weekend, three months after it was seized under the U.S. sanctions intended to limit Iran's nuclear program. Ship-tracking data analyzed by The Associated Press showed the crude was moved in an hours-long ship-to-ship transfer near Galveston. The ship is too large to enter the port, so it needs what are called "lightering agents" to transfer the oil to smaller ships. That process got underway Sunday. Iran has threatened retaliation against any company taking part in the transfer. It's still not clear exactly how much crude is involved. The government refuses to comment until they actually have the cargo. An appeals court in Washington has derailed a plan to extend existing rail lines along Colorado's Interstate-70 corridor into Utah's booming Uinta Basin. The court ordered the Surface Transportation Board to reconsider what it called the "paltry discussion" of the potential environmental impact of the line. The administration announced $3.5 billion in funding for two carbon removal projects, designed to suck carbon dioxide pollution out of the air. Occidental Petroleum is developing 100,000 acres on the famed King Ranch in South Texas in one project. Another project is underway near Lake Charles, La. The Energy Information Administration predicts output from the seven major U.S. shale basins will average 9.44 million barrels per day in August and a little less, 9.41 million per day in September. The monthly Drilling Productivity Report predicts an average of 981 barrels per day for new shale wells in September. That's up 11 barrels per day from EIA's August forecast.

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Crude inventories dropped to their lowest level in seven months. The government reported a 6 million barrel drawdown in U.S. crude stockpiles, reducing inventories to 439.7 million barrels as of Aug. 11. That's about 1 percent below the five-year seasonal average.Stockpiles rebounded somewhat last week after a historic drawdown of 17 million barrels the week before. The current tally is the lowest since Jan. 11. EIA said crude imports last week rose nearly half a million barrels per day to 7.2 million barrels per day. The four-week average is about 4 percent higher than a year ago. U.S. crude production rose 107,000 barrels per day. The average for the week through Aug. 11 is just short of 12.7 million barrels per day, about half a million barrels per day higher than a year ago. The benchmark Nymex crude-oil contract settled Friday at $81.25 per barrel, posting its first weekly loss since the week of June 23. Prices were holding steady on Monday, with the September Nymex contract trading over $81. London Brent was just a few cents shy of $95 per barrel by midday. Kansas crude prices drop $2 in two weeks and now are equal to the price posted on Aug. 1. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $71.50 per barrel. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 642 active rigs, down five oil rigs and six gas rigs. Louisiana and West Virginia were each down three rigs. North Dakota, Ohio and Oklahoma each dropped by two rigs. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 17 active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up one from last week, and 26 rigs west of Wichita, which is unchanged. Kansas operators have spudded 176 wells so far this year, down 34 wells from last year. Total footage is down 27 percent. Operators completed 33 new wells in Kansas, of which 22 are in western Kansas including one each in Barton, Ellis and Russell counties, and two in Stafford County.&nbsp; Kansas regulators approved 19 new drilling permits this week, 10 of them in western Kansas, including two in Ellis County. An oil tanker suspected of carrying sanctioned crude oil from Iran offloaded its cargo near Texas over the weekend, three months after it was seized under the U.S. sanctions intended to limit Iran's nuclear program. Ship-tracking data analyzed by The Associated Press showed the crude was moved in an hours-long ship-to-ship transfer near Galveston. The ship is too large to enter the port, so it needs what are called "lightering agents" to transfer the oil to smaller ships. That process got underway Sunday. Iran has threatened retaliation against any company taking part in the transfer. It's still not clear exactly how much crude is involved. The government refuses to comment until they actually have the cargo. An appeals court in Washington has derailed a plan to extend existing rail lines along Colorado's Interstate-70 corridor into Utah's booming Uinta Basin. The court ordered the Surface Transportation Board to reconsider what it called the "paltry discussion" of the potential environmental impact of the line. The administration announced $3.5 billion in funding for two carbon removal projects, designed to suck carbon dioxide pollution out of the air. Occidental Petroleum is developing 100,000 acres on the famed King Ranch in South Texas in one project. Another project is underway near Lake Charles, La. The Energy Information Administration predicts output from the seven major U.S. shale basins will average 9.44 million barrels per day in August and a little less, 9.41 million per day in September. The monthly Drilling Productivity Report predicts an average of 981 barrels per day for new shale wells in September. That's up 11 barrels per day from EIA's August forecast.

News from the oil Patch: Crude inventories plummet again

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will consider the name for the new elementary school at its regular meeting at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.

&nbsp;Hays Middle School will be remodeled into an elementary school as part of the bond issue improvements.

A new high school is being built, and middle school students will be moved to the current high school, which will be remodeled.

School officials are proposing to name the school Felten Elementary School.&nbsp;

Felten was previously used as the name of the building from 1981 to 2012 when the school was a middle school.

The school was renamed in honor Pete F. Felten, who played a key role in the development of Hays. Serving as mayor, he helped lay out and name the streets of Hays. He was the owner of Felten Truck Lines. Many people and organizations in the Hays community benefited from Pete Felten's generosity.

The new elementary school is set to open in fall 2026.

Superintendent Ron Wilson also will give a report about ongoing renovations at Roosevelt Elementary School.

The board also will consider a request for improvements at the baseball facility, a policy update on the use of school facilities by community groups and handbook reviews.

The handbook reviews will include base wages for classified staff.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will consider the name for the new elementary school at its regular meeting at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.&nbsp;Hays Middle School will be remodeled into an elementary school as part of the bond issue improvements.A new high school is being built, and middle school students will be moved to the current high school, which will be remodeled.School officials are proposing to name the school Felten Elementary School.&nbsp;Felten was previously used as the name of the building from 1981 to 2012 when the school was a middle school.The school was renamed in honor Pete F. Felten, who played a key role in the development of Hays. Serving as mayor, he helped lay out and name the streets of Hays. He was the owner of Felten Truck Lines. Many people and organizations in the Hays community benefited from Pete Felten's generosity.The new elementary school is set to open in fall 2026.Superintendent Ron Wilson also will give a report about ongoing renovations at Roosevelt Elementary School.The board also will consider a request for improvements at the baseball facility, a policy update on the use of school facilities by community groups and handbook reviews.The handbook reviews will include base wages for classified staff.

Hays USD 489 school board to consider name of new elementary school

Kansas&nbsp;Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Ransom public water supply system located in Ness County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on Aug. 21 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-731-2456, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjEuODE0Mjk4MDEifQ.rQtsWh6NcLZSx0-HP3wPNRtTJghUwdT5hyA2l6b-MEg/s/1305913623/br/224575565666-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685643447861.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Kansas&nbsp;Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Ransom public water supply system located in Ness County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on Aug. 21 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-731-2456, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjEuODE0Mjk4MDEifQ.rQtsWh6NcLZSx0-HP3wPNRtTJghUwdT5hyA2l6b-MEg/s/1305913623/br/224575565666-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil water advisory issued for the city of Ransom, Ness County

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfehays.org/" target="_blank">Holy Family Elementary</a> principal Mandy Meagher and assistant principal Gene Flax discuss the beginning of the school year with The Morning Blend's Jeff Leiker.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Holy Family Elementary year begins" 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=5wj33-14874d5-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfehays.org/" target="_blank">Holy Family Elementary</a> principal Mandy Meagher and assistant principal Gene Flax discuss the beginning of the school year with The Morning Blend's Jeff Leiker.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Holy Family Elementary year begins

An Ellis County district court jury found a man guilty this week of 10 sex crimes against two young girls.

The case stems back to incidents that happened in 2007.

The defendant is facing multiple life sentences under "Jessica's Law" for the crimes.

A jury trial was held in the Ellis County District Court in State of Kansas vs. Daniel Betancourt, Monday through Wednesday

 The defendant, Daniel Betancourt, was represented by Cheryl A. Stewart of Oakley and Christopher A. Rohr of Colby. The state was represented by Ellis County Attorney Robert A. Anderson Jr. The judge presiding over the case was Judge Glenn R. Braun.

The defendant was charged with 10 counts, all being “off-grid Jessica’s Law” child sexual abuse crimes. Charges one through six, involved a 7-year-old victim. Counts seven through 10 involved her 8-year-old sister.

Count one: rape, count two: rape, count three: aggravated criminal sodomy, count four: aggravated criminal sodomy, count five: aggravated criminal sodomy, count six: aggravated indecent liberties with a child, count seven: rape, count eight: aggravated criminal sodomy, count nine: aggravated criminal sodomy, count 10: aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Each of the 10 charges alleged that these crimes occurred between Feb. 1, 2007, and March 29, 2007, in Ellis County and the defendant was 18 or older at the time of these crimes and the victims were younger than 14 at the time the crimes were committed.

The original complaint in this matter was filed by the previous County Attorney Thomas J. Drees. A warrant was issued on April 10, 2007. The defendant was not arrested on that warrant until Aug. 22, 2021.

The jury deliberated for about one hour and fifteen minutes before finding the defendant guilty of all 10 charges.

Sentencing in this matter has not yet been scheduled.

While the judge does have some discretion at the time of sentencing, state law requires the defendant to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 25 years for each count.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692399746319.png" alt="Betancourt-photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Betancourt-photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County AttorneyAn Ellis County district court jury found a man guilty this week of 10 sex crimes against two young girls.The case stems back to incidents that happened in 2007.The defendant is facing multiple life sentences under "Jessica's Law" for the crimes.A jury trial was held in the Ellis County District Court in State of Kansas vs. Daniel Betancourt, Monday through Wednesday The defendant, Daniel Betancourt, was represented by Cheryl A. Stewart of Oakley and Christopher A. Rohr of Colby. The state was represented by Ellis County Attorney Robert A. Anderson Jr. The judge presiding over the case was Judge Glenn R. Braun.The defendant was charged with 10 counts, all being “off-grid Jessica’s Law” child sexual abuse crimes. Charges one through six, involved a 7-year-old victim. Counts seven through 10 involved her 8-year-old sister.Those charges are as follows:Count one: rape, count two: rape, count three: aggravated criminal sodomy, count four: aggravated criminal sodomy, count five: aggravated criminal sodomy, count six: aggravated indecent liberties with a child, count seven: rape, count eight: aggravated criminal sodomy, count nine: aggravated criminal sodomy, count 10: aggravated indecent liberties with a child.Each of the 10 charges alleged that these crimes occurred between Feb. 1, 2007, and March 29, 2007, in Ellis County and the defendant was 18 or older at the time of these crimes and the victims were younger than 14 at the time the crimes were committed.The original complaint in this matter was filed by the previous County Attorney Thomas J. Drees. A warrant was issued on April 10, 2007. The defendant was not arrested on that warrant until Aug. 22, 2021.The jury deliberated for about one hour and fifteen minutes before finding the defendant guilty of all 10 charges.Sentencing in this matter has not yet been scheduled.While the judge does have some discretion at the time of sentencing, state law requires the defendant to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 25 years for each count.

Ellis County jury finds man guilty of 10 counts of sex with minors

The Hays Aquatic Park officially wrapped up its year with the annual Dog Swim, giving area residents' four-legged friends a break from the heat.

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 </figure>The Hays Aquatic Park officially wrapped up its year with the annual Dog Swim, giving area residents' four-legged friends a break from the heat.Take a look at the festivities below.<figure>
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📷 Hays Aquatic Park goes to the dogs to wrap up summer

Highlighting Fort Hays State University’s fall convocation Wednesday was the presentation of faculty awards. Awards included the Faculty Member of the Year, John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor, and the President’s Distinguished Scholar Award.

The Faculty Member of the Year award was presented to Dr. Carol Ellis, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders. Commerce Bank provided a $1,000 stipend for Dr. Ellis in recognition of this honor. Dr. Ellis provides academic and clinical education to FHSU students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

“Dr. Ellis’s passion for guiding international students with the Accent Modification program has helped expand numerous students’ knowledge of the English language, culture, and dialects,” said FHSU Provost Jill Arensdorf. “She is a stellar example of the importance and value of our teaching faculty.”

The faculty member of the year is selected from the past year’s recipients of faculty awards for teaching, research and scholarly activity, and service.

The 2022-2023 award for scholarly activity went to Dr. Whitney Whitaker, associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Lori Kniffin, assistant professor of leadership studies. 

Outstanding service awards went to Dr. Jerrie Brooks, associate professor of advanced education programs, and Dr. Karmen Porter, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders.

 Dr. Carol Ellis, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders, and Dr. Richard Lisichenko, professor of geosciences, were recognized for outstanding teaching.

John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor

Dr. Ziwei Qi, associate professor of criminal justice, was named the&nbsp;John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor. The award is named after our esteemed former colleague, Dr. John Heinrichs, who was active in all research areas.

This award recognizes faculty members’ commitment, time, and energy in promoting undergraduate research. All current faculty and unclassified staff members at levels comparable to academic faculty are eligible. The awardee’s home department is provided $500 of budget funding to benefit the recipient.

Dr. Qi’s student-led projects include individual-to-community-based collaboration on victimology, crime prevention, and legal analysis. She assists her students with these research projects from presentation to publication and successful outcomes in the juris doctorate and graduate programs. One student wrote: “Dr. Qi’s mentorship has helped me achieve academically and professionally.”

President’s Distinguished Scholar Award

Dr. Laura Wilson, associate professor of geosciences, was announced as the 2023 President’s Distinguished Scholar. Dr. Wilson’s interdisciplinary research integrates aspects of the earth and life sciences, specifically the study of animals and the environments from the western interior seaway. She has been awarded four federal grants to support her scholarly activities focused on museum practices, including collection improvements at Sternberg Museum. Her scholarship in teaching and learning continues to impact college students in both informal and formal science education settings.

Dr. Wilson will receive a $1,500 check at the President’s Distinguished Scholar program later in the academic year.

The President’s Distinguished Scholar Award was first conferred in 1989. The evaluation of each candidate for this honor is based on an analysis of their performance in research and creative activities, service, and instruction categories. Acceptable levels of performance must be demonstrated in service and instruction, with the primary focus of this award on research and creative activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692361592710.png" alt="Carol Ellis,&nbsp;Ziwei Qi, and&nbsp;Laura Wilson are winners of the FHSU fall convocation faculty awards. Photos courtesy FHSU." />
 <figcaption>Carol Ellis,&nbsp;Ziwei Qi, and&nbsp;Laura Wilson are winners of the FHSU fall convocation faculty awards. Photos courtesy FHSU.</figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsHighlighting Fort Hays State University’s fall convocation Wednesday was the presentation of faculty awards. Awards included the Faculty Member of the Year, John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor, and the President’s Distinguished Scholar Award.The Faculty Member of the Year award was presented to Dr. Carol Ellis, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders. Commerce Bank provided a $1,000 stipend for Dr. Ellis in recognition of this honor. Dr. Ellis provides academic and clinical education to FHSU students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.“Dr. Ellis’s passion for guiding international students with the Accent Modification program has helped expand numerous students’ knowledge of the English language, culture, and dialects,” said FHSU Provost Jill Arensdorf. “She is a stellar example of the importance and value of our teaching faculty.”The faculty member of the year is selected from the past year’s recipients of faculty awards for teaching, research and scholarly activity, and service.The 2022-2023 award for scholarly activity went to Dr. Whitney Whitaker, associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Lori Kniffin, assistant professor of leadership studies. Outstanding service awards went to Dr. Jerrie Brooks, associate professor of advanced education programs, and Dr. Karmen Porter, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders. Dr. Carol Ellis, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders, and Dr. Richard Lisichenko, professor of geosciences, were recognized for outstanding teaching.John Heinrichs Outstanding Research MentorDr. Ziwei Qi, associate professor of criminal justice, was named the&nbsp;John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor. The award is named after our esteemed former colleague, Dr. John Heinrichs, who was active in all research areas.This award recognizes faculty members’ commitment, time, and energy in promoting undergraduate research. All current faculty and unclassified staff members at levels comparable to academic faculty are eligible. The awardee’s home department is provided $500 of budget funding to benefit the recipient.Dr. Qi’s student-led projects include individual-to-community-based collaboration on victimology, crime prevention, and legal analysis. She assists her students with these research projects from presentation to publication and successful outcomes in the juris doctorate and graduate programs. One student wrote: “Dr. Qi’s mentorship has helped me achieve academically and professionally.”President’s Distinguished Scholar AwardDr. Laura Wilson, associate professor of geosciences, was announced as the 2023 President’s Distinguished Scholar. Dr. Wilson’s interdisciplinary research integrates aspects of the earth and life sciences, specifically the study of animals and the environments from the western interior seaway. She has been awarded four federal grants to support her scholarly activities focused on museum practices, including collection improvements at Sternberg Museum. Her scholarship in teaching and learning continues to impact college students in both informal and formal science education settings.Dr. Wilson will receive a $1,500 check at the President’s Distinguished Scholar program later in the academic year.The President’s Distinguished Scholar Award was first conferred in 1989. The evaluation of each candidate for this honor is based on an analysis of their performance in research and creative activities, service, and instruction categories. Acceptable levels of performance must be demonstrated in service and instruction, with the primary focus of this award on research and creative activities.

Faculty awards presented at FHSU fall convocation

Fentanyl community conversation slated in Hays for Sept. 21

BARTON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Saturday in Barton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Indian Scout driven by Betsy Lenae&nbsp;Teegardin, 49, Olathe, was westbound on SW 50 Road at SW 10 Avenue.

The motorcycle sideswiped a westbound&nbsp; 1985 Harley Davidson Superglide driven by Cameron Scott&nbsp;Stevenson, 20, Ellinwood, that started to have mechanical problems and drove off onto SW 10 Avenue. 

Both motorcycles came to a rest within the intersection.

A private vehicle transported Stevenson to the hospital in Ellinwood. and Teegardin to Xpress Wellness. Both riders were wearing helmets and eye protection, according to the KHP.

BARTON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Saturday in Barton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Indian Scout driven by Betsy Lenae&nbsp;Teegardin, 49, Olathe, was westbound on SW 50 Road at SW 10 Avenue.The motorcycle sideswiped a westbound&nbsp; 1985 Harley Davidson Superglide driven by Cameron Scott&nbsp;Stevenson, 20, Ellinwood, that started to have mechanical problems and drove off onto SW 10 Avenue. Both motorcycles came to a rest within the intersection.A private vehicle transported Stevenson to the hospital in Ellinwood. and Teegardin to Xpress Wellness. Both riders were wearing helmets and eye protection, according to the KHP.

2 injured in Barton County motorcycle accident

COLBY — Colby Community College faculty member Dr. Jeffrey Sekavec has been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. 

In all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals are selected based on current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are considered during selection.

Dr. Sekavec has been affiliated with his alma mater, Colby Community College (CCC), since 2017. He also serves as the institution’s emergency response team chair and coordinator since 2018 and as the STEM division chair for all science courses since 2022. Employed by CCC on and off since 2006, Dr. Sekavec was an assistant instructor teaching chemistry with the late Dr. Max Pickerill, formerly of the Manhattan Project, and rose to chemistry instructor and adjunct instructor from 2012 to 2014 before returning to the campus three years later. 

He specializes in biology, microbiology, and antibiotic resistance.

Apart from his commitments in the classroom, Dr. Sekavec is also known for his work with select governmental entities, carrying a badge and overseeing bioterrorism and biological events and training as a bioterror and management consultant since 2014.

As a researcher, Dr. Sekavec has contributed articles to various professional publications on antimicrobial agents and antibiotic/antimicrobial resistance. He has also conducted studies on first responders, disaster management, and leadership model applications in law enforcement. Additionally, Dr. Sekavec had the opportunity to participate as an invited speaker at the 2016-2017 Dr. Max Pickerill Lecture Series hosted by CCC.

During an earlier stage of his career, Dr. Sekavec worked for Fort Hays State University as a graduate teaching and graduate research assistant from 2010 to 2013 and as a laboratory manager of its Western Kansas Center for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics between 2012 and 2013 while pursuing his graduate degree in microbiology. Previously, he gained experience as a communications and training officer at the Oakley Police Department from 2009 to 2014, which leveraged his ability to work in consulting.

On behalf of his local community, Dr. Sekavec has been active in giving to various veteran organizations and was the vice chair of the Local Area Emergency Planning Commission for several years. He also worked with a western Kansas county to open a first responder gym, where he was influential in getting the building ready and obtaining various donated pieces of workout equipment.

Dr. Sekavec was raised in Asia as a child of a military family. He subsequently served in the U.S. Air Force from 1999 to 2002. Dr. Sekavec graduated from Colby Community College in 2004 with an associate of science in chemistry, Bethany College in 2006 with a bachelor of arts in biology, and Fort Hays State University in 2013 with a master of science in microbiology. He also received a doctor of management in homeland security from Colorado Technical University in 2016. Additionally, Dr. Sekavec received a multitude of designations in his field through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration, and CompTIA.

To further ensure his place at the forefront of his profession, Dr. Sekavec is a member of the American Society for Microbiology. He is also a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Air Force Association, and the American Legion as a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

In light of his accomplishments, Dr. Sekavec was honored to receive the coveted Tangeman Award for Teaching Excellence in 2022 from Colby Community College, awarded to the outstanding instructor of the year. He was previously recognized as a Collegiate All-American Scholar award winner by the U.S. Achievement Academy, and inducted into the Beta Beta Beta National Honor Society of the Biological Sciences and Beta Tau Sigma, a chemical sciences honor society. 

Most honorably, Dr. Sekavec was asked by a former student to pin his lieutenant bar on his uniform at his commissioning ceremony in May 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692375401175.jpeg" alt="Jeffrey Sekavec (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Sekavec (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College faculty member Dr. Jeffrey Sekavec has been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. In all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals are selected based on current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are considered during selection. Dr. Sekavec has been affiliated with his alma mater, Colby Community College (CCC), since 2017. He also serves as the institution’s emergency response team chair and coordinator since 2018 and as the STEM division chair for all science courses since 2022. Employed by CCC on and off since 2006, Dr. Sekavec was an assistant instructor teaching chemistry with the late Dr. Max Pickerill, formerly of the Manhattan Project, and rose to chemistry instructor and adjunct instructor from 2012 to 2014 before returning to the campus three years later. He specializes in biology, microbiology, and antibiotic resistance. Apart from his commitments in the classroom, Dr. Sekavec is also known for his work with select governmental entities, carrying a badge and overseeing bioterrorism and biological events and training as a bioterror and management consultant since 2014. As a researcher, Dr. Sekavec has contributed articles to various professional publications on antimicrobial agents and antibiotic/antimicrobial resistance. He has also conducted studies on first responders, disaster management, and leadership model applications in law enforcement. Additionally, Dr. Sekavec had the opportunity to participate as an invited speaker at the 2016-2017 Dr. Max Pickerill Lecture Series hosted by CCC. During an earlier stage of his career, Dr. Sekavec worked for Fort Hays State University as a graduate teaching and graduate research assistant from 2010 to 2013 and as a laboratory manager of its Western Kansas Center for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics between 2012 and 2013 while pursuing his graduate degree in microbiology. Previously, he gained experience as a communications and training officer at the Oakley Police Department from 2009 to 2014, which leveraged his ability to work in consulting. On behalf of his local community, Dr. Sekavec has been active in giving to various veteran organizations and was the vice chair of the Local Area Emergency Planning Commission for several years. He also worked with a western Kansas county to open a first responder gym, where he was influential in getting the building ready and obtaining various donated pieces of workout equipment. Dr. Sekavec was raised in Asia as a child of a military family. He subsequently served in the U.S. Air Force from 1999 to 2002. Dr. Sekavec graduated from Colby Community College in 2004 with an associate of science in chemistry, Bethany College in 2006 with a bachelor of arts in biology, and Fort Hays State University in 2013 with a master of science in microbiology. He also received a doctor of management in homeland security from Colorado Technical University in 2016. Additionally, Dr. Sekavec received a multitude of designations in his field through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration, and CompTIA. To further ensure his place at the forefront of his profession, Dr. Sekavec is a member of the American Society for Microbiology. He is also a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Air Force Association, and the American Legion as a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. In light of his accomplishments, Dr. Sekavec was honored to receive the coveted Tangeman Award for Teaching Excellence in 2022 from Colby Community College, awarded to the outstanding instructor of the year. He was previously recognized as a Collegiate All-American Scholar award winner by the U.S. Achievement Academy, and inducted into the Beta Beta Beta National Honor Society of the Biological Sciences and Beta Tau Sigma, a chemical sciences honor society. Most honorably, Dr. Sekavec was asked by a former student to pin his lieutenant bar on his uniform at his commissioning ceremony in May 2023.

Colby Community College's Sekavec inducted into Marquis Who's Who

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692385277473.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>

Grow Hays, in association with the Network Kansas E-Community Partnership, announces the ‘Think Like an Entrepreneur’ - Ice House Entrepreneurship Program offered in Ellis County starting September 20. Sessions will be&nbsp;held over eight weeks, Wednesdays September 20 through November 8.

 The goal of the course is to teach participants to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.

Taught by Kris Munsch, a certified Ice House facilitator, this interactive 8-week program provides practical entrepreneurial lessons through first-hand experiences of successful, real-life entrepreneurs. Based on the book,&nbsp;Who Owns the Ice House, this curriculum consists of case studies along with individual assignments, assessments, and discussion topics. This popular course is offered only a handful of times per year across the state and Grow Hays is excited to have local Kris Munsch teaching the course.

"To think like an entrepreneur, you need to begin at the beginning.&nbsp;The beginning is "what is a mindset?"&nbsp; I believe we need that understanding, a foundational building block of self.&nbsp; From there, we can seek, explore, and build our path,, Kris Munsch, Ice House facilitator.

The program fee runs $150 for adults and $75 for students and covers catered meals. We are offering an early bird price of $100 if signed up and paid by September 8th.&nbsp;Registration is limited, and in-county attendees will have priority to fill the course. Out of county attendees are welcome to register but may be put on a waiting list. The deadline to register is Thursday, September 15.

To register for the&nbsp;Think Like an Entrepreneur&nbsp;program online, visit:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://briefspace.app.proximity.space/join?mcids=64de641b71b25051644396" target="_blank">https://briefspace.app.proximity.space/join?mcids=64de641b71b25051644396</a>

For an early bird discount rate, use discount code ICEHOUSE2023, and STUDENT2023 for the student discount code.

For more information contact Ernee Sly at 785.628.3102 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a>.

Think Like an Entrepreneur Program

BriefSpace- 219 West 10th in Hays – 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Week #1&nbsp;– Wednesday, September 20 – Power of Choice

Week #2&nbsp;– Wednesday, September 27 – Recognizing Opportunity

Week #3&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 4 – Ideas into Action

Week #4&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 11 – Pursuit of Knowledge

Week #5&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 18 – Creating Wealth

Week #6&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 25 – Building Your Brand

Week #7&nbsp;– Wednesday, November 1– Creating Community

Week #8&nbsp;– Wednesday, November 8 – The Power of Persistence

For more information about NetWork Kansas or the E-Community Partnership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.networkkansas.com/" target="_blank">www.networkkansas.com</a>. &nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Ice House/Think Like an Entrepreneur launches in Sept. at Grow Hays" 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=ain5a-14849a7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Grow HaysGrow Hays, in association with the Network Kansas E-Community Partnership, announces the ‘Think Like an Entrepreneur’ - Ice House Entrepreneurship Program offered in Ellis County starting September 20. Sessions will be&nbsp;held over eight weeks, Wednesdays September 20 through November 8. The goal of the course is to teach participants to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.Taught by Kris Munsch, a certified Ice House facilitator, this interactive 8-week program provides practical entrepreneurial lessons through first-hand experiences of successful, real-life entrepreneurs. Based on the book,&nbsp;Who Owns the Ice House, this curriculum consists of case studies along with individual assignments, assessments, and discussion topics. This popular course is offered only a handful of times per year across the state and Grow Hays is excited to have local Kris Munsch teaching the course.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692366620024.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"To think like an entrepreneur, you need to begin at the beginning.&nbsp;The beginning is "what is a mindset?"&nbsp; I believe we need that understanding, a foundational building block of self.&nbsp; From there, we can seek, explore, and build our path,, Kris Munsch, Ice House facilitator.The program fee runs $150 for adults and $75 for students and covers catered meals. We are offering an early bird price of $100 if signed up and paid by September 8th.&nbsp;Registration is limited, and in-county attendees will have priority to fill the course. Out of county attendees are welcome to register but may be put on a waiting list. The deadline to register is Thursday, September 15.To register for the&nbsp;Think Like an Entrepreneur&nbsp;program online, visit:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://briefspace.app.proximity.space/join?mcids=64de641b71b25051644396" target="_blank">https://briefspace.app.proximity.space/join?mcids=64de641b71b25051644396</a>For an early bird discount rate, use discount code ICEHOUSE2023, and STUDENT2023 for the student discount code.For more information contact Ernee Sly at 785.628.3102 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a>.Think Like an Entrepreneur ProgramBriefSpace- 219 West 10th in Hays – 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.Week #1&nbsp;– Wednesday, September 20 – Power of ChoiceWeek #2&nbsp;– Wednesday, September 27 – Recognizing OpportunityWeek #3&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 4 – Ideas into ActionWeek #4&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 11 – Pursuit of KnowledgeWeek #5&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 18 – Creating WealthWeek #6&nbsp;– Wednesday, October 25 – Building Your BrandWeek #7&nbsp;– Wednesday, November 1– Creating CommunityWeek #8&nbsp;– Wednesday, November 8 – The Power of PersistenceFor more information about NetWork Kansas or the E-Community Partnership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.networkkansas.com/" target="_blank">www.networkkansas.com</a>. &nbsp;

🎙 Ice House/Think Like an Entrepreneur launches in Sept. at Grow Hays

As most of you are aware, over the past few years, most small towns around this part of Kansas have become summer homes to magnificent raptors called Mississippi Kites. They arrive in late April to nest and raise young, then in late October they head to South America for the winter. 

They are marvelous aerialists, and are mesmerizing to watch as they effortlessly glide and navigate the Kansas winds. They feed mostly on insects, and find a real bonanza here when cicadas first appear. Their call is a high-pitched whistle that is very disguisable and common now during mid to late summer.

On Saturday morning two weeks ago, there seemed to be more “kite whistling” going on than usual, and as I walked around the front of our house in preparation for mowing the lawn, I saw why - a very immature Mississippi Kite chick was standing in the lawn along the house. Evidently having tumbled from a hidden nest we were not aware of, the youngster stood there whistling desperately for its parents. I managed to pick it up without getting pecked or clawed and deposited the youngster in the flower bed out-of-the way. A later check found a half-eaten cicada at its feet, telling us its parents were aware of its plight. Later in the day, as the sun became scorching, we moved it again to a corner in front of the house where the sun never directly shines. A small stack of large clay flower pots was laid on their side and turned around and pushed towards the corner, pretty much hiding the little guy from marauding neighborhood cats and a red fox that hunts our end of town, and giving it a place to crawl into at night and out of the weather, which it made good use of. 

Having no idea of its gender, we named it “Kyle the Kite.” 

We spoke to the wildlife rehab people at the Hutchinson Zoo, who told us we were handling the situation correctly by not intervening and by allowing the parents to care for it. They also assured us the chick would indeed be able to fledge from there and fly from the ground, but also warned us that kites are notoriously slow learners and it could take two weeks or more for the chick to figure things out.

A big picture window in the front of our home faces west, overlooking two big oak trees in the front lawn. Kyle’s temporary “digs” were just around the corner out-of-sight, but we could see its parents constantly coming and going all day, every day, continuously bring snacks. We put a trail camera on one tree and got some&nbsp;nice pictures of an adult bringing food, and of Kyle strutting and exercising its wings. Joyce checked on Kyle most evenings at dusk, always finding it snoozing in its flower pot shelter.

Fast forward to last Thursday morning. Joyce left early to swim at the YMCA, and when I checked on Kyle a little later, it was nowhere to be found. When Joyce got home, she told me Kyle was standing at the edge of the flower garden when she left, looking all proud and grownup, with lots of new feathers and all, and she just had the feeling today was the day Kyle would take to the air and we would never see it again. Later that day, we observed a mature kite coming and going from one tree in the front yard, and sure enough, there sat Kyle peering down from the branches above, now being cared for where he belonged.

We recently lost a good church friend to cancer; Kyle was his name also. Kyle spent his entire life in a wheelchair, in a body with numerous problems, but when our Savior Jesus took him home, just like Kyle the Kite, he flew away in a new body that finally worked. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>As most of you are aware, over the past few years, most small towns around this part of Kansas have become summer homes to magnificent raptors called Mississippi Kites. They arrive in late April to nest and raise young, then in late October they head to South America for the winter. They are marvelous aerialists, and are mesmerizing to watch as they effortlessly glide and navigate the Kansas winds. They feed mostly on insects, and find a real bonanza here when cicadas first appear. Their call is a high-pitched whistle that is very disguisable and common now during mid to late summer.On Saturday morning two weeks ago, there seemed to be more “kite whistling” going on than usual, and as I walked around the front of our house in preparation for mowing the lawn, I saw why - a very immature Mississippi Kite chick was standing in the lawn along the house. Evidently having tumbled from a hidden nest we were not aware of, the youngster stood there whistling desperately for its parents. I managed to pick it up without getting pecked or clawed and deposited the youngster in the flower bed out-of-the way. A later check found a half-eaten cicada at its feet, telling us its parents were aware of its plight. Later in the day, as the sun became scorching, we moved it again to a corner in front of the house where the sun never directly shines. A small stack of large clay flower pots was laid on their side and turned around and pushed towards the corner, pretty much hiding the little guy from marauding neighborhood cats and a red fox that hunts our end of town, and giving it a place to crawl into at night and out of the weather, which it made good use of. Having no idea of its gender, we named it “Kyle the Kite.” We spoke to the wildlife rehab people at the Hutchinson Zoo, who told us we were handling the situation correctly by not intervening and by allowing the parents to care for it. They also assured us the chick would indeed be able to fledge from there and fly from the ground, but also warned us that kites are notoriously slow learners and it could take two weeks or more for the chick to figure things out.A big picture window in the front of our home faces west, overlooking two big oak trees in the front lawn. Kyle’s temporary “digs” were just around the corner out-of-sight, but we could see its parents constantly coming and going all day, every day, continuously bring snacks. We put a trail camera on one tree and got some&nbsp;nice pictures of an adult bringing food, and of Kyle strutting and exercising its wings. Joyce checked on Kyle most evenings at dusk, always finding it snoozing in its flower pot shelter.Fast forward to last Thursday morning. Joyce left early to swim at the YMCA, and when I checked on Kyle a little later, it was nowhere to be found. When Joyce got home, she told me Kyle was standing at the edge of the flower garden when she left, looking all proud and grownup, with lots of new feathers and all, and she just had the feeling today was the day Kyle would take to the air and we would never see it again. Later that day, we observed a mature kite coming and going from one tree in the front yard, and sure enough, there sat Kyle peering down from the branches above, now being cared for where he belonged.We recently lost a good church friend to cancer; Kyle was his name also. Kyle spent his entire life in a wheelchair, in a body with numerous problems, but when our Savior Jesus took him home, just like Kyle the Kite, he flew away in a new body that finally worked. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Kyle the Kite

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-bailey/">SAM BAILEY</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Rifts between family farmers and large agribusiness companies have expanded as debate over animal confinement legislation and a fairness in farming act hits new heights.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://competitivemarkets.com/">Organization for Competitive Markets</a>, a members-based group of small town farmers from across the country, recently met to discuss its opposition to the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act, known as EATS, and Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas. Marshall and Iowa U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson are leading the push for EATS alongside other legislators in farm states.

“It is very rare for us to take aim directly at a senator, but we feel Marshall’s EATS act is the most egregious of attacks against independent family farmers we’ve ever seen by a U.S. Senator,” said Marty Irby, OCM secretary and Competitive Markets Action president.

Michael Smith, a political science professor at Emporia State University, said farming used to be one of the most nonpartisan issues, with more Democrats previously residing in farm states. He said infighting makes it harder to be politically active and “the culture war has infected another type of policy.”

“We’re seeing ideological and partisan breakdown on a type of legislation that typically hasn’t been,” Smith said. “And it may be even some traditional farm advocates that are more conservative don’t like the EATS act, because they don’t want to make something like this partisan, as farming legislation typically is not partisan.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2019?s=1&amp;r=3">EATS</a>&nbsp;followed California’s approval of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/fd/mb-fdp-03-2022-a.asp">Proposition 12</a>, which prohibits in-state production and marketing of pork from pigs raised in unregulated confinement. The proposition also barred the selling of products in California from states that do not follow the guidelines.

In a recent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NL1o46vKeMA">interview with RFD-TV</a>, a program focused on rural issues, Marshall said lawmakers are “drawing a line in the sand” to stop Proposition 12 and future regulations.

“These are radical animal-rights activists that are leading this charge against us,” he said. “We do not want California telling Kansas or Iowa farmers on how to raise pigs, next it’s going to be cattle, then they’re going to tell us we can’t grow GMO corn.”

Smith said California has passed legislation regulating incoming products before. The state has so many people, it can leverage industries’ need to sell in the state to pass laws that are stricter than federal guidelines, he said.&nbsp;

Companies cannot stop selling to California, and it is not cost effective to make separate products that comply with the state’s regulations, so they will produce all their products to comply.&nbsp;

“This EATS act is a backlash by Sen. Marshall and his allies, mostly conservative Republicans from farm states, that would cancel any state regulations pre-processing on agricultural production that conflict with federal law, that it would basically default to the federal standards,” Smith said.&nbsp;

Irby said OCM and its leaders have repeatedly asked Marshall to back legislation they support and he has yet to do so.&nbsp;

“It’s unfortunate he decided to introduce the EATS attack against states’ rights without even asking our members in the state for their opinion or input before the bill was introduced, and that was a huge mistake on his part and his staff,” Irby said.

Marshall did not respond to a Kansas Reflector request for comment.

The division in agricultural opinion on the act may arise from small, family-owned farms wanting to be competitive against big businesses, Smith said.&nbsp;

“The smaller family farmers and ranchers actually see an opportunity here, because the confined feeding operations are mostly done by big agribusiness corporations,” he said. “It’s not the small family farmer and rancher that’s doing these confined feeding operations, and so the California regulation would actually probably benefit them, because it would make them more competitive.”

OCM also raised concerns about Chinese ownership of agribusiness, saying EATS will pave the way for Chinese corporations to expand across the country.&nbsp;

Smithfield Foods, with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smithfieldfoods.com/Our-Brands">brands</a>&nbsp;including Nathan’s Famous, Farmer John and Farmland, is owned by WH Group Limited. According to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://investors.smithfieldfoods.com/">Smithfield Foods website</a>, WH Group Limited is based in Hong Kong and is the largest pork company in the world.&nbsp;

While OCM strongly opposes EATS, it supports the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/557?s=1&amp;r=88#:~:text=Introduced%20in%20Senate%20(02%2F28%2F2023)&amp;text=This%20bill%20establishes%20restrictions%20and,to%20specific%20producers%20or%20brands.">Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act</a>.&nbsp;

The measure, first introduced in 2016, would establish restrictions and requirements for checkoff programs overseen by the Department of Agriculture. These programs provide research for agricultural commodities without reference to specific brands.

Farmers have to pay fees to the USDA, and they want to prevent companies from benefiting from those fees if they are also lobbying in Congress, Smith explained.&nbsp;

He said the small farms don’t have as much money to hire lobbyists as big corporations, and with more money comes more influence and benefits.

While OCM supports this act, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association leadership disagrees. In a May 11&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncba.org/ncba-news/news-releases/news/details/33783/fight-the-animal-rights-groups-infiltrating-our-industry">news release</a>, president Todd Wilkinson called the bill “the Obliterating Family Farms Act.”

“The bill is nothing but an attack on cattle producers who have worked hard to build a program that promotes our wholesome American beef while also strengthening our family farms and ranches,” he said.

Irby accused the NCBA of being “nothing more than a front group for foreign interests and multinational corporations like the Chinese-owned Smithfield.”

“They’ve hijacked the voice of independent family farmers and continue to misrepresent their constituency,” Irby said.&nbsp;

Wilkinson criticized Irby in the same news release, saying conservative organizations were being “infiltrated” by animal rights activists. He referenced how before Irby worked for the company, he worked for Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy, both animal rights advocacy groups.

“Irby is no friend of animal agriculture, and he has turned FreedomWorks into a lobbying machine for the OFF Act and for ending our way of life,” he said.

In a news release announcing Irby’s reelection as secretary of OCM, he said he was honored to continue in the role.&nbsp;

“If the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association thinks their recent slanderous personal attacks are working for them, they’re dumber than I thought,” Irby said. “They’ve only motivated me to work twice as hard to defeat the EATS Act and see the enactment of the OFF Act.”

In June, OCM launched a campaign against EATS and recently visited Washington, D.C., to advocate against the act in the upcoming&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/farm-bill">Farm Bill</a>, legislation passed by Congress every five years to support agricultural policy.

“Producers across the nation are rallying against the EATS Act, and we will continue to stand strong on the front lines in the war the leaders of EATS have launched against American family farmers,” said Mike Weaver, an OCM board director, in a news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692392072774.jpeg" alt="Introduced legislation causes polarizing debates between agriculture groups. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Introduced legislation causes polarizing debates between agriculture groups. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-bailey/">SAM BAILEY</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Rifts between family farmers and large agribusiness companies have expanded as debate over animal confinement legislation and a fairness in farming act hits new heights.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://competitivemarkets.com/">Organization for Competitive Markets</a>, a members-based group of small town farmers from across the country, recently met to discuss its opposition to the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act, known as EATS, and Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas. Marshall and Iowa U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson are leading the push for EATS alongside other legislators in farm states.“It is very rare for us to take aim directly at a senator, but we feel Marshall’s EATS act is the most egregious of attacks against independent family farmers we’ve ever seen by a U.S. Senator,” said Marty Irby, OCM secretary and Competitive Markets Action president.Michael Smith, a political science professor at Emporia State University, said farming used to be one of the most nonpartisan issues, with more Democrats previously residing in farm states. He said infighting makes it harder to be politically active and “the culture war has infected another type of policy.”“We’re seeing ideological and partisan breakdown on a type of legislation that typically hasn’t been,” Smith said. “And it may be even some traditional farm advocates that are more conservative don’t like the EATS act, because they don’t want to make something like this partisan, as farming legislation typically is not partisan.”<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2019?s=1&amp;r=3">EATS</a>&nbsp;followed California’s approval of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/fd/mb-fdp-03-2022-a.asp">Proposition 12</a>, which prohibits in-state production and marketing of pork from pigs raised in unregulated confinement. The proposition also barred the selling of products in California from states that do not follow the guidelines.In a recent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NL1o46vKeMA">interview with RFD-TV</a>, a program focused on rural issues, Marshall said lawmakers are “drawing a line in the sand” to stop Proposition 12 and future regulations.“These are radical animal-rights activists that are leading this charge against us,” he said. “We do not want California telling Kansas or Iowa farmers on how to raise pigs, next it’s going to be cattle, then they’re going to tell us we can’t grow GMO corn.”Smith said California has passed legislation regulating incoming products before. The state has so many people, it can leverage industries’ need to sell in the state to pass laws that are stricter than federal guidelines, he said.&nbsp;Companies cannot stop selling to California, and it is not cost effective to make separate products that comply with the state’s regulations, so they will produce all their products to comply.&nbsp;“This EATS act is a backlash by Sen. Marshall and his allies, mostly conservative Republicans from farm states, that would cancel any state regulations pre-processing on agricultural production that conflict with federal law, that it would basically default to the federal standards,” Smith said.&nbsp;Irby said OCM and its leaders have repeatedly asked Marshall to back legislation they support and he has yet to do so.&nbsp;“It’s unfortunate he decided to introduce the EATS attack against states’ rights without even asking our members in the state for their opinion or input before the bill was introduced, and that was a huge mistake on his part and his staff,” Irby said.Marshall did not respond to a Kansas Reflector request for comment.The division in agricultural opinion on the act may arise from small, family-owned farms wanting to be competitive against big businesses, Smith said.&nbsp;“The smaller family farmers and ranchers actually see an opportunity here, because the confined feeding operations are mostly done by big agribusiness corporations,” he said. “It’s not the small family farmer and rancher that’s doing these confined feeding operations, and so the California regulation would actually probably benefit them, because it would make them more competitive.”OCM also raised concerns about Chinese ownership of agribusiness, saying EATS will pave the way for Chinese corporations to expand across the country.&nbsp;Smithfield Foods, with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smithfieldfoods.com/Our-Brands">brands</a>&nbsp;including Nathan’s Famous, Farmer John and Farmland, is owned by WH Group Limited. According to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://investors.smithfieldfoods.com/">Smithfield Foods website</a>, WH Group Limited is based in Hong Kong and is the largest pork company in the world.&nbsp;<h2>‘Fairness in Farming’</h2>While OCM strongly opposes EATS, it supports the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/557?s=1&amp;r=88#:~:text=Introduced%20in%20Senate%20(02%2F28%2F2023)&amp;text=This%20bill%20establishes%20restrictions%20and,to%20specific%20producers%20or%20brands.">Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act</a>.&nbsp;The measure, first introduced in 2016, would establish restrictions and requirements for checkoff programs overseen by the Department of Agriculture. These programs provide research for agricultural commodities without reference to specific brands.Farmers have to pay fees to the USDA, and they want to prevent companies from benefiting from those fees if they are also lobbying in Congress, Smith explained.&nbsp;He said the small farms don’t have as much money to hire lobbyists as big corporations, and with more money comes more influence and benefits.While OCM supports this act, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association leadership disagrees. In a May 11&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncba.org/ncba-news/news-releases/news/details/33783/fight-the-animal-rights-groups-infiltrating-our-industry">news release</a>, president Todd Wilkinson called the bill “the Obliterating Family Farms Act.”“The bill is nothing but an attack on cattle producers who have worked hard to build a program that promotes our wholesome American beef while also strengthening our family farms and ranches,” he said.Irby accused the NCBA of being “nothing more than a front group for foreign interests and multinational corporations like the Chinese-owned Smithfield.”“They’ve hijacked the voice of independent family farmers and continue to misrepresent their constituency,” Irby said.&nbsp;Wilkinson criticized Irby in the same news release, saying conservative organizations were being “infiltrated” by animal rights activists. He referenced how before Irby worked for the company, he worked for Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy, both animal rights advocacy groups.“Irby is no friend of animal agriculture, and he has turned FreedomWorks into a lobbying machine for the OFF Act and for ending our way of life,” he said.In a news release announcing Irby’s reelection as secretary of OCM, he said he was honored to continue in the role.&nbsp;“If the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association thinks their recent slanderous personal attacks are working for them, they’re dumber than I thought,” Irby said. “They’ve only motivated me to work twice as hard to defeat the EATS Act and see the enactment of the OFF Act.”In June, OCM launched a campaign against EATS and recently visited Washington, D.C., to advocate against the act in the upcoming&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/farm-bill">Farm Bill</a>, legislation passed by Congress every five years to support agricultural policy.“Producers across the nation are rallying against the EATS Act, and we will continue to stand strong on the front lines in the war the leaders of EATS have launched against American family farmers,” said Mike Weaver, an OCM board director, in a news release.

‘Ideological, partisan breakdown’: Proposed legislation reveals conflict among agriculturalists

NORTON - Three bridges along U.S. 40 in Wallace County are set to be replaced over the next two years.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has started construction on the Union Pacific railroad and Smoky Hill River bridges, which are located approximately seven and three miles east of Sharon Springs, respectively.

Preliminary work began on the Union Pacific bridge in early August. The new structure will be built adjacent to the existing bridge. Traffic will continue to be carried on the current bridge until the new structure is built. Motorists will later be directed on to shoofly detours around each end of the new structure while construction on the tie-ins to U.S. 40 is completed.

Construction on the Smoky Hill River bridge is expected to begin around Sept. 5. Crews will first be building a shoofly detour to carry traffic around the work zone. Upon completion, traffic will be routed on to the detour while demolition and reconstruction take place.

KDOT expects the Union Pacific bridge to be completed in fall 2025 and the Smoky Hill River bridge in fall 2024, conditions permitting.

The third bridge is located approximately 10 miles east of the Colorado border, or six miles west of Sharon Springs. Construction will begin in 2024.

Bridges Inc. of Newton is the primary contractor for the projects with a combined contract cost of approximately $28 million. 

For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691661541522.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTNORTON - Three bridges along U.S. 40 in Wallace County are set to be replaced over the next two years.The Kansas Department of Transportation has started construction on the Union Pacific railroad and Smoky Hill River bridges, which are located approximately seven and three miles east of Sharon Springs, respectively.Preliminary work began on the Union Pacific bridge in early August. The new structure will be built adjacent to the existing bridge. Traffic will continue to be carried on the current bridge until the new structure is built. Motorists will later be directed on to shoofly detours around each end of the new structure while construction on the tie-ins to U.S. 40 is completed.Construction on the Smoky Hill River bridge is expected to begin around Sept. 5. Crews will first be building a shoofly detour to carry traffic around the work zone. Upon completion, traffic will be routed on to the detour while demolition and reconstruction take place.KDOT expects the Union Pacific bridge to be completed in fall 2025 and the Smoky Hill River bridge in fall 2024, conditions permitting.The third bridge is located approximately 10 miles east of the Colorado border, or six miles west of Sharon Springs. Construction will begin in 2024.Bridges Inc. of Newton is the primary contractor for the projects with a combined contract cost of approximately $28 million. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

Construction begins on U.S. 40 bridges in Wallace County

Hungry for Bierocks?&nbsp; Place your order with the Cancer Council of Ellis County for its bierock fundraiser until Sept. 5.

These delicious bierocks are made by The Press.

To place your order call the Cancer Council at 785-625-6653 or mail your order to 701 Riley St, Hays KS 67601.

Orders must be paid for at the time of the order.

Pick up will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 14 in The Press parking lot, 230 East Eighth St., Hays. &nbsp;

The cost is $25 for ½ dozen or $45 for a dozen or $30 for ½ dozen or $50 for a dozen for bierocks with cheese.

The Cancer Council of Ellis County is a local organization that has been helping Ellis County residents dealing with cancer for 37 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591377623834.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hungry for Bierocks?&nbsp; Place your order with the Cancer Council of Ellis County for its bierock fundraiser until Sept. 5.These delicious bierocks are made by The Press.To place your order call the Cancer Council at 785-625-6653 or mail your order to 701 Riley St, Hays KS 67601.Orders must be paid for at the time of the order.Pick up will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 14 in The Press parking lot, 230 East Eighth St., Hays. &nbsp;The cost is $25 for ½ dozen or $45 for a dozen or $30 for ½ dozen or $50 for a dozen for bierocks with cheese.The Cancer Council of Ellis County is a local organization that has been helping Ellis County residents dealing with cancer for 37 years.

Cancer Council of Ellis County sets bierock fundraiser

The Fort Hays State University Foundation recently added two new members, Julie Deterding, and Brandon Prough, to its board of trustees.

“I’m excited about the addition of these two members and the backgrounds they will offer this group of dedicated and generous individuals. Deterding and Prough will bring a level of leadership and commitment that will undoubtedly impact the Foundation and the future of Fort Hays State,” said FHSU Foundation President and CEO Jason Williby.

Julie Deterding is new to retirement following her career as a Wichita-based financial analyst and accounting professional. Deterding attended Barton County Community College before moving on to Fort Hays State University. She graduated from FHSU with an undergraduate degree in marketing in 1982 and a master of business administration degree in 1983. Upon graduating, she landed a job with Grant Thornton, LLP in Wichita as an auditor, where she remained for several years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Her later role at Wesley Medical Center was an excellent fit for Deterding. Over an impressive 35 years with the center, she served in various capacities, including internal auditor, financial analyst, and, most recently, clinical system analyst. In addition to her professional roles, Deterding is active in P.E.O., an international women’s philanthropic educational organization, and in serving her community through events like the United Way Read to Succeed. As a recent retiree, Deterding looks forward to spending more time with loved ones.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Patrons of the Bank of Hays may be familiar with its senior vice president and chief lending officer, Brandon Prough. In 1986, Prough relocated to Hays from southwest Kansas to complete his high school education at Hays High. After falling in love with the area, Prough earned his agricultural business degree at Fort Hays State University in 1993. His education helped kickstart a career as an area specialist with the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development in Hays, where he dedicated nearly 20 years of service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692359413466.png" alt="Photos courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Foundation&nbsp;&nbsp;The Fort Hays State University Foundation recently added two new members, Julie Deterding, and Brandon Prough, to its board of trustees.“I’m excited about the addition of these two members and the backgrounds they will offer this group of dedicated and generous individuals. Deterding and Prough will bring a level of leadership and commitment that will undoubtedly impact the Foundation and the future of Fort Hays State,” said FHSU Foundation President and CEO Jason Williby.Julie Deterding&nbsp;Julie Deterding is new to retirement following her career as a Wichita-based financial analyst and accounting professional. Deterding attended Barton County Community College before moving on to Fort Hays State University. She graduated from FHSU with an undergraduate degree in marketing in 1982 and a master of business administration degree in 1983. Upon graduating, she landed a job with Grant Thornton, LLP in Wichita as an auditor, where she remained for several years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her later role at Wesley Medical Center was an excellent fit for Deterding. Over an impressive 35 years with the center, she served in various capacities, including internal auditor, financial analyst, and, most recently, clinical system analyst. In addition to her professional roles, Deterding is active in P.E.O., an international women’s philanthropic educational organization, and in serving her community through events like the United Way Read to Succeed. As a recent retiree, Deterding looks forward to spending more time with loved ones.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brandon Prough&nbsp;Patrons of the Bank of Hays may be familiar with its senior vice president and chief lending officer, Brandon Prough. In 1986, Prough relocated to Hays from southwest Kansas to complete his high school education at Hays High. After falling in love with the area, Prough earned his agricultural business degree at Fort Hays State University in 1993. His education helped kickstart a career as an area specialist with the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development in Hays, where he dedicated nearly 20 years of service.&nbsp;Prough has been with the Bank of Hays in his current position since 2011. Aside from professional achievements, Prough recently graduated from the Graduate School of Banking in Colorado and devotes additional time to the Hays community as a board member at Westview Church.&nbsp;&nbsp;The current Foundation board is comprised of 46 FHSU alumni and friends, with each trustee serving a four-year term. Trustees actively participate in various activities contributing to the educational and financial success of the university and the FHSU Foundation.Foundation board of trustees come from diverse education and industry backgrounds representing all five academic colleges at Fort Hays State University, and they reside in several states, including Kansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Missouri, and Texas.Deterding and Prough will join other FHSU Foundation board of trustees members later this week for the organization's on-campus annual business meeting. Trustees will get an inside view of what’s happening at Fort Hays State and will hear updates from the Department of Agriculture, the Rodeo Club, and the men's and women’s wrestling teams. Additionally, trustees will tour the university farm, the Institute for New Media Studies, and the newly constructed home of FHSU’s Shotgun Team, the Wilmer and Lorena Kellogg Training Center, located out at the Hays City Sportsmen’s Club. A number of trustees will conclude their weekend with the university’s 14th annual Tiger Auction and dinner Saturday evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Foundation serves as the fundraising arm of Fort Hays State University. It raises and manages funds entrusted to it to benefit various needs in support of the university and works closely with FHSU to support its initiatives.&nbsp;To learn more about the Fort Hays State Foundation or to view a complete list of current trustees, visit <a href="https://foundation.fhsu.edu/two-fhsu-alums-join-board-of-trustees/">foundation.fhsu.edu/board-of-trustees</a> or contact the Foundation office at 785-628-5620 or by email at foundation@fhsu.edu.&nbsp;