Hays High School senior, Kyzer Fox, was named Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Fox is among some 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. 

Although they will not continue in the 2024 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2024 competition by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

Kyzer Fox is the son of Trent and Mandy Fox. Kyzer has taken numerous honors and college courses throughout his high school career and has maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.9. 

Fox is also a 2023 Homecoming King candidate. Some of the school activities Fox has been involved in include Student Council, basketball, soccer and student leadership.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695674374066.png" alt="Kyzer Fox (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kyzer Fox (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>HHSHays High School senior, Kyzer Fox, was named Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.Fox is among some 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2024 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2024 competition by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.Kyzer Fox is the son of Trent and Mandy Fox. Kyzer has taken numerous honors and college courses throughout his high school career and has maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.9. Fox is also a 2023 Homecoming King candidate. Some of the school activities Fox has been involved in include Student Council, basketball, soccer and student leadership.

Hays High senior Kyzer Fox commended in National Merit Scholarship Program

A few years after relocating here from Pennsylvania, a friend of mine dove into home ownership. Being extremely knowledgeable and passionate about birding and gardening, she decided to convert part of her front yard into a native plant pollinator garden. She had no problem with the plantings, but the city codes are giving her fits.

There are numerous advantages to cultivating pollinator gardens instead of non-native grass and other decorative plantings. Plants like Black-Eyed Susans, Western Yarrow, Wild Bergamot (beebalm), Milkweed, and Kansas’ state flower–the sunflower– have deeper root networks, which help prevent soil erosion and reduce water runoff. They do not need to be mowed, saving energy and pollution. They are natural parts of Kansas’ ecosystem and do not spread invasively. Natives grow well without artificial fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Many grow beautiful flowers. They also adapt better to our climate, requiring less watering.

Pollinator gardens supply food to native birds and insects including hummingbirds, monarch butterflies, and native bees. In recent years, the population of monarchs has declined alarmingly, which many experts attribute to agricultural pesticides and herbicides. All told, one third of our food requires pollination by insects.

Unfortunately, native pollinator gardens violate many communities’ local ordinances.

 These old laws reflect the 1950s ideal of a suburban lawn. They incentivize the planting of nonnative grass which is mowed short and often treated with fertilizers. They also encourage or condone ornamental shrubs, trees, and other plants which are an invasive threat to our native Kansas plants. Such scourges include the Bradford Pear, the Eastern Red Cedar, the Tree of Heaven, and wintercreeper. I join legions of other homeowners spending countless weekends trying to remove these noxious pests. Farmers and ranchers do not like them, either.

As for my friend, she won her dispute with the city, but only after cutting part of her beloved pocket prairie and compiling a thick packet of information for her hearing.

She is now working with Emporia officials to update the local ordinances. Fortunately, she has a template. Active in Kansas and western Missouri, the Metro Area Regional Council (MARC) has prepared model legislation to encourage native plants and pollinator gardens while still allowing communities to clean up true noxious weeds, abandoned lots, and unkempt yards.

This past April, a Kansas family got caught between the city of Overland Park–which discourages such plantings, Johnson County–which encourages them, and their own neighbors. Many neighborhoods in Overland Park feature neatly-manicured lawns in tidy housing subdivisions along cul-de-sac streets. Neighbors must adjust their expectations of what looks beautiful. Lawns should be property maintained, but they need not resemble golf courses.

These codes also reflect the needs of agriculture. For example, milkweed is a beneficial, beautiful, easy to grow native plant that pollinators love, but it is poisonous to cattle and horses. This is fine for farmers and ranchers, but the average suburban homeowner is not going to have cattle and horses in their yard! Some local codes still classify milkweed as a “noxious weed” even when planted in town. Fortunately, some Kansas local governments have started targeting actual noxious weeds such as Bradford Pears, which are highly invasive. Wichita is one of many communities expanding native plantings on public land including parks.

New codes will allow beautiful, native, pollinator-friendly yards while still requiring that yards and lots be properly maintained. MARC’s model legislation is just what you need to start working on this in your own community– and your yard.

Michael A. Smith is a professor of political science and chair of social sciences at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A few years after relocating here from Pennsylvania, a friend of mine dove into home ownership. Being extremely knowledgeable and passionate about birding and gardening, she decided to convert part of her front yard into a native plant pollinator garden. She had no problem with the plantings, but the city codes are giving her fits.There are numerous advantages to cultivating pollinator gardens instead of non-native grass and other decorative plantings. Plants like Black-Eyed Susans, Western Yarrow, Wild Bergamot (beebalm), Milkweed, and Kansas’ state flower–the sunflower– have deeper root networks, which help prevent soil erosion and reduce water runoff. They do not need to be mowed, saving energy and pollution. They are natural parts of Kansas’ ecosystem and do not spread invasively. Natives grow well without artificial fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Many grow beautiful flowers. They also adapt better to our climate, requiring less watering.Pollinator gardens supply food to native birds and insects including hummingbirds, monarch butterflies, and native bees. In recent years, the population of monarchs has declined alarmingly, which many experts attribute to agricultural pesticides and herbicides. All told, one third of our food requires pollination by insects.Unfortunately, native pollinator gardens violate many communities’ local ordinances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> These old laws reflect the 1950s ideal of a suburban lawn. They incentivize the planting of nonnative grass which is mowed short and often treated with fertilizers. They also encourage or condone ornamental shrubs, trees, and other plants which are an invasive threat to our native Kansas plants. Such scourges include the Bradford Pear, the Eastern Red Cedar, the Tree of Heaven, and wintercreeper. I join legions of other homeowners spending countless weekends trying to remove these noxious pests. Farmers and ranchers do not like them, either.As for my friend, she won her dispute with the city, but only after cutting part of her beloved pocket prairie and compiling a thick packet of information for her hearing.She is now working with Emporia officials to update the local ordinances. Fortunately, she has a template. Active in Kansas and western Missouri, the Metro Area Regional Council (MARC) has prepared model legislation to encourage native plants and pollinator gardens while still allowing communities to clean up true noxious weeds, abandoned lots, and unkempt yards.Our sensibilities need to change, too. This past April, a Kansas family got caught between the city of Overland Park–which discourages such plantings, Johnson County–which encourages them, and their own neighbors. Many neighborhoods in Overland Park feature neatly-manicured lawns in tidy housing subdivisions along cul-de-sac streets. Neighbors must adjust their expectations of what looks beautiful. Lawns should be property maintained, but they need not resemble golf courses.These codes also reflect the needs of agriculture. For example, milkweed is a beneficial, beautiful, easy to grow native plant that pollinators love, but it is poisonous to cattle and horses. This is fine for farmers and ranchers, but the average suburban homeowner is not going to have cattle and horses in their yard! Some local codes still classify milkweed as a “noxious weed” even when planted in town. Fortunately, some Kansas local governments have started targeting actual noxious weeds such as Bradford Pears, which are highly invasive. Wichita is one of many communities expanding native plantings on public land including parks.New codes will allow beautiful, native, pollinator-friendly yards while still requiring that yards and lots be properly maintained. MARC’s model legislation is just what you need to start working on this in your own community– and your yard.Michael A. Smith is a professor of political science and chair of social sciences at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Zoning codes should allow native plants and pollinator gardens 

<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/2023/9/1696015835784.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

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Starting September 25, you can order four free test kits per household through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covid.gov/tests">COVIDtests.gov</a>.

The tests will detect the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-viral-mutations-impact-covid-19-tests">currently circulating COVID-19 variants</a>&nbsp;and are intended for use through the end of 2023. The kits will include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list">instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates</a>.&nbsp;Many kits have had their expiration dates extended beyond what may be printed on the packaging.

You don’t have to pay for shipping, and you’ll never be asked for a credit card or bank account number. You only need to give a name and shipping address. If you’d like an email confirmation and delivery updates from the U.S. Postal Service, you can submit your email address.&nbsp;Anyone who asks for more information than that is a scammer.&nbsp;

• Only go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;to order your free test kits from the federal government. When you click to order, you’ll be redirected to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fspecial.usps.com%2Ftestkits&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2022%2F01%2Fits-official-get-free-covid-test-kits-covidtestsgov" target="_blank">special.usps.com/testkits</a>. If you’re following a link from a news story, double-check the URL that shows in your browser’s address bar.&nbsp;

• No one will call, text, or email you from the federal government to ask for your information to “help” you order free kits. Don’t give out your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number. Do not respond. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/" target="_blank">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695743544779.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCWASHINGTON, D.C. — Starting September 25, you can order four free test kits per household through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covid.gov/tests">COVIDtests.gov</a>.The tests will detect the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-viral-mutations-impact-covid-19-tests">currently circulating COVID-19 variants</a>&nbsp;and are intended for use through the end of 2023. The kits will include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list">instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates</a>.&nbsp;Many kits have had their expiration dates extended beyond what may be printed on the packaging.You don’t have to pay for shipping, and you’ll never be asked for a credit card or bank account number. You only need to give a name and shipping address. If you’d like an email confirmation and delivery updates from the U.S. Postal Service, you can submit your email address.&nbsp;Anyone who asks for more information than that is a scammer.&nbsp;So, remember:• Only go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;to order your free test kits from the federal government. When you click to order, you’ll be redirected to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fspecial.usps.com%2Ftestkits&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2022%2F01%2Fits-official-get-free-covid-test-kits-covidtestsgov" target="_blank">special.usps.com/testkits</a>. If you’re following a link from a news story, double-check the URL that shows in your browser’s address bar.&nbsp;• No one will call, text, or email you from the federal government to ask for your information to “help” you order free kits. Don’t give out your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number. Do not respond. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/" target="_blank">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: Free COVID test kits are back: Here’s how to get yours

The Kansas Department of Transportation requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program document.&nbsp;

The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System.

Area counties included are Decatur, Ness, Rush, Scott, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace.&nbsp;

The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp</a>.&nbsp;

The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes Oct. 4.&nbsp;To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at 785-296-3254.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688046043635.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program document.&nbsp;The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System.Area counties included are Decatur, Ness, Rush, Scott, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace.&nbsp;The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp</a>.&nbsp;The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes Oct. 4.&nbsp;To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at 785-296-3254.

Area counties part of KDOT transportation improvement amendment

RUSSELL – Russell Community Theater's fall production of "Vino Veritas" will be the organization’s 106th production. "Vino Veritas", by David MacGregor&nbsp; is presented with special permission by Playscripts. Performances are October 17-21, 2023, with curtain at 8 p.m., in the RCT Playhouse, 5th and Kansas, Russell.

Casting has been completed and rehearsals are underway to bring you a quality theater experience.

On Halloween night, two couples, Lauren and Phil (Becky Anschutz and Dalton Mauro, respectively), and their neighbors, Ridley and Claire (Dalton Davis and Cat Webling, respectively), meet at Lauren and Phil’s house for drinks and hors d'oeuvres before planning on heading out to a massive party. 

Dressed in their finest costumes (witch, cowboy, doctor, and Queen Elizabeth I), the hostess, Lauren, brings out a bottle of blue wine she picked up in Peru. Based on an old Incan recipe, the wine supposedly has truth-telling properties and is brewed from the skins of blue dart tree frogs. 

Three of the four drink the wine and the conversation begins to take odd turns. Some of the "truths" are harmless enough, but progressively get darker and more disturbing. It gradually becomes clear that the marriage of one of the couples is disintegrating due to a lack of truthfulness, and the other marriage is only held together by lies.

This insightful and thought-provoking play will leave you thinking long after it’s over.

Russell Community Theater is a non-profit theater company in Russell, Kansas. The sole purpose of RCT is to produce theater for the community and the surrounding area. Completely volunteer driven, RCT is supported financially solely through ticket admissions and gifts from those supportive of community theater. Since its inception in 1986, RCT has presented 105 full-scale theatrical productions.

For more information, call 785-483-4057. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russelltheater">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695218843764.jpeg" alt="Dalton Mauro, Becky Anschutz, Dalton Davis, Cat Webling. Photo by Charissa Roe" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Mauro, Becky Anschutz, Dalton Davis, Cat Webling. Photo by Charissa Roe</figcaption>
 </figure>RCTRUSSELL – Russell Community Theater's fall production of "Vino Veritas" will be the organization’s 106th production. "Vino Veritas", by David MacGregor&nbsp; is presented with special permission by Playscripts. Performances are October 17-21, 2023, with curtain at 8 p.m., in the RCT Playhouse, 5th and Kansas, Russell.Casting has been completed and rehearsals are underway to bring you a quality theater experience.On Halloween night, two couples, Lauren and Phil (Becky Anschutz and Dalton Mauro, respectively), and their neighbors, Ridley and Claire (Dalton Davis and Cat Webling, respectively), meet at Lauren and Phil’s house for drinks and hors d'oeuvres before planning on heading out to a massive party. Dressed in their finest costumes (witch, cowboy, doctor, and Queen Elizabeth I), the hostess, Lauren, brings out a bottle of blue wine she picked up in Peru. Based on an old Incan recipe, the wine supposedly has truth-telling properties and is brewed from the skins of blue dart tree frogs. Three of the four drink the wine and the conversation begins to take odd turns. Some of the "truths" are harmless enough, but progressively get darker and more disturbing. It gradually becomes clear that the marriage of one of the couples is disintegrating due to a lack of truthfulness, and the other marriage is only held together by lies.This insightful and thought-provoking play will leave you thinking long after it’s over.**Adult themes and language present**Russell Community Theater is a non-profit theater company in Russell, Kansas. The sole purpose of RCT is to produce theater for the community and the surrounding area. Completely volunteer driven, RCT is supported financially solely through ticket admissions and gifts from those supportive of community theater. Since its inception in 1986, RCT has presented 105 full-scale theatrical productions. For more information, call 785-483-4057. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russelltheater">Facebook</a>.

Russell Community Theater fall production cast announcement

Meteorological fall began on September 1. It was warm early in the month, with highs over 100 degrees in many locations during Labor Day weekend. It has since turned more seasonable, with pleasant daytime temperatures, cool mornings, and, so far, no threat of cold air. 

Nowhere in Kansas has there been any frost yet, but it was 39°F in Tribune and 40°F in Colby on the morning of the 12th, a harbinger of colder weather yet to come. The autumnal equinox, which marks the beginning of astronomical fall, was on Saturday, September 23, at 1:50 a.m. central time. 

We will eventually experience a first frost and, in time, a first freeze, which can end the growing season, depending on how far below freezing the temperature gets and how many hours sub-freezing conditions persist. 

Exactly when do the first frost and freeze typically occur in Kansas? In this report, we look at the average dates for those two significant cold weather events.

Data for 20 sites in Kansas were examined using the full period of record at each location. For this study, the first frost date is defined as the first occurrence of a temperature at or below 36°, and the first freeze is defined as the first occurrence of 32°F or colder. The dates that the first frost occurred each year were sorted from earliest to latest, and then the dates on which 10%, 20%, 30%, etc., of the first frost occurred on or before were identified (Table 1). This methodology was repeated for the first freeze data (Table 2). To see the data tables, go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu.</a>

Looking at the first frost date, the median date is in October, except for the far west and northwest areas of Kansas, where it occurs in late September. The median date is when there is a 50% chance of the first frost having already occurred. The earliest median date is in Oberlin (September 26), and the latest is in Wichita (October 18). Except for Wichita, there is a 10% probability of the first frost occurring before the first of October at all locations and a 90% probability that the first frost has occurred by the end of October.

There is a 60% or greater chance that the first freeze will occur by the end of October at all locations (Table 2), but the probabilities are higher for earlier dates in the west and north. As with the first frost date, Oberlin has the earliest median date (October 3), and Wichita has the latest date (October 28). September freezes happen occasionally, and occasionally, it’s November before the first freeze, but October is typically the month when the growing season ends. October is also when the normal lows each day decrease the fastest (Table 3); the daily normals drop by 11 to 14 degrees. By month’s end, Goodland, Oberlin, and Tribune all have&nbsp;normal lows below freezing. Only eastern and southern locations have normal lows in the 40s by October 31; all other locations have normal lows in the 30s.

Last year, the first freeze was in mid-October across the entire state, thanks to a cold air mass that invaded the state and brought widespread lows in the 20s, with a few upper teens. The first freeze in 2022 was on the 16th in Goodland, the 17th in Garden City and Hutchinson, and the 18th in Wichita and Parsons. For the northwest, this freeze was later than normal, but in the southeast, it was earlier than normal. 

What about this year? It’s too soon to know, but the outlooks for the next two weeks favor above-normal temperatures, so it doesn’t appear that an early freeze will occur in September. As for October, we’ll have to wait and see. Until then, enjoy the pleasant fall weather!

Information and article provided by Matthew Sittel, Assistant State Climatologist, msittel@ksu.edu.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Meteorological fall began on September 1. It was warm early in the month, with highs over 100 degrees in many locations during Labor Day weekend. It has since turned more seasonable, with pleasant daytime temperatures, cool mornings, and, so far, no threat of cold air. Nowhere in Kansas has there been any frost yet, but it was 39°F in Tribune and 40°F in Colby on the morning of the 12th, a harbinger of colder weather yet to come. The autumnal equinox, which marks the beginning of astronomical fall, was on Saturday, September 23, at 1:50 a.m. central time. We will eventually experience a first frost and, in time, a first freeze, which can end the growing season, depending on how far below freezing the temperature gets and how many hours sub-freezing conditions persist. Exactly when do the first frost and freeze typically occur in Kansas? In this report, we look at the average dates for those two significant cold weather events.Data for 20 sites in Kansas were examined using the full period of record at each location. For this study, the first frost date is defined as the first occurrence of a temperature at or below 36°, and the first freeze is defined as the first occurrence of 32°F or colder. The dates that the first frost occurred each year were sorted from earliest to latest, and then the dates on which 10%, 20%, 30%, etc., of the first frost occurred on or before were identified (Table 1). This methodology was repeated for the first freeze data (Table 2). To see the data tables, go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu.</a>Looking at the first frost date, the median date is in October, except for the far west and northwest areas of Kansas, where it occurs in late September. The median date is when there is a 50% chance of the first frost having already occurred. The earliest median date is in Oberlin (September 26), and the latest is in Wichita (October 18). Except for Wichita, there is a 10% probability of the first frost occurring before the first of October at all locations and a 90% probability that the first frost has occurred by the end of October.There is a 60% or greater chance that the first freeze will occur by the end of October at all locations (Table 2), but the probabilities are higher for earlier dates in the west and north. As with the first frost date, Oberlin has the earliest median date (October 3), and Wichita has the latest date (October 28). September freezes happen occasionally, and occasionally, it’s November before the first freeze, but October is typically the month when the growing season ends. October is also when the normal lows each day decrease the fastest (Table 3); the daily normals drop by 11 to 14 degrees. By month’s end, Goodland, Oberlin, and Tribune all have&nbsp;normal lows below freezing. Only eastern and southern locations have normal lows in the 40s by October 31; all other locations have normal lows in the 30s.Last year, the first freeze was in mid-October across the entire state, thanks to a cold air mass that invaded the state and brought widespread lows in the 20s, with a few upper teens. The first freeze in 2022 was on the 16th in Goodland, the 17th in Garden City and Hutchinson, and the 18th in Wichita and Parsons. For the northwest, this freeze was later than normal, but in the southeast, it was earlier than normal. What about this year? It’s too soon to know, but the outlooks for the next two weeks favor above-normal temperatures, so it doesn’t appear that an early freeze will occur in September. As for October, we’ll have to wait and see. Until then, enjoy the pleasant fall weather!Information and article provided by Matthew Sittel, Assistant State Climatologist, msittel@ksu.edu.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Looking ahead to the first frost, freeze dates for Kansas

Oktoberfest 2023 kicked off Friday at Municipal Park in Hays with opening ceremonies and the annual tapping of the keg. Events, including games, music, food and beverages will continue today until 6 p.m.

Below is the complete Oktoberfest schedule for today.

Fort Hays State Unversity is also celebrating a full slate of Homecoming activities today. The Homecoming parade will be at 11 a.m. down Main Street. Kickoff for the FHSU football game is at 7 p.m. at Lewis Field Stadium.

A variety of FHSU organizations will have informational booths as well as fundraisers on Oktoberfest grounds.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuhomecoming.com/events/#full-schedule">https://fhsuhomecoming.com/events/#full-schedule</a> for a complete list of FHSU Homecoming activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696008732592.jpeg" alt="Oktoberfest goers dance to the music of the Joe Dolezal Band Friday in Hays. Oktoberfest continues today in Municipal Park. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Oktoberfest goers dance to the music of the Joe Dolezal Band Friday in Hays. Oktoberfest continues today in Municipal Park. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Oktoberfest 2023 kicked off Friday at Municipal Park in Hays with opening ceremonies and the annual tapping of the keg. Events, including games, music, food and beverages will continue today until 6 p.m.Below is the complete Oktoberfest schedule for today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696010252463.png" alt="Saturday Oktoberfest schedule" />
 <figcaption>Saturday Oktoberfest schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State Unversity is also celebrating a full slate of Homecoming activities today. The Homecoming parade will be at 11 a.m. down Main Street. Kickoff for the FHSU football game is at 7 p.m. at Lewis Field Stadium.A variety of FHSU organizations will have informational booths as well as fundraisers on Oktoberfest grounds.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuhomecoming.com/events/#full-schedule">https://fhsuhomecoming.com/events/#full-schedule</a> for a complete list of FHSU Homecoming activities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009052908.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009093875.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009128891.jpeg" alt="The Oktoberfest opening blessing. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Oktoberfest opening blessing. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009183206.jpeg" alt="Catherine the Great portrayed by Cheryl Maxwell Glassman welcomes guests to Hays' 2023 Oktoberfest.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Catherine the Great portrayed by Cheryl Maxwell Glassman welcomes guests to Hays' 2023 Oktoberfest.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009310237.jpeg" alt="Evan Dealy, far left, is awarded a $500 scholarship to FHSU by the Volga German Association.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Evan Dealy, far left, is awarded a $500 scholarship to FHSU by the Volga German Association.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009528755.jpeg" alt="The family of Janel Moore gathered as she was posthumously honored by the Oktoberfest Committee for Moore's longtime service to the event.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The family of Janel Moore gathered as she was posthumously honored by the Oktoberfest Committee for Moore's longtime service to the event.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009872779.jpeg" alt="Phil Kuhn, Volga German Society president, and others share in the annual tapping of the keg at the event Friday.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Phil Kuhn, Volga German Society president, and others share in the annual tapping of the keg at the event Friday.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696010011877.jpeg" alt="Phil Kuhn,&nbsp;Volga German Society president, rings the bell to officially open the event for 2023.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Phil Kuhn,&nbsp;Volga German Society president, rings the bell to officially open the event for 2023.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696033950160.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034055711.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034190843.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034227688.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034270036.jpeg" alt="Sarah Shubert, left, celebrates after winning the stein-holding contest. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Shubert, left, celebrates after winning the stein-holding contest. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034319919.jpeg" alt="Sarah Shubert, center, won the stein-holding contest with a time of 6 minutes and 15 seconds. She is pictured with runner-up Christy Simons, left, and second runner-up Mariah Anstaett, right. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Shubert, center, won the stein-holding contest with a time of 6 minutes and 15 seconds. She is pictured with runner-up Christy Simons, left, and second runner-up Mariah Anstaett, right. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034372822.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034488667.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034537431.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696034604833.jpeg" alt="Clint Newell won the stein-holding contest. He set a record by holding the stein for 19 minutes and 12 seconds.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Clint Newell won the stein-holding contest. He set a record by holding the stein for 19 minutes and 12 seconds.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 Oktoberfest 2023 in photos, Saturday schedule

The Sunflower Electric Power Corp. board of directors appointed Corey Linville as senior vice president and chief operations officer of generation and power supply and Al Tamimi as senior vice president and chief operations officer of transmission, effective immediately. 

Linville and Tamimi succeed Kyle Nelson, who will retire at the end of 2024 after 35 years at Sunflower.

Nelson joined Sunflower in 1989 and was promoted to senior vice president and chief operating officer in 2008. He served on the executive team, managed both the generation and transmission operations departments, and worked with Sunflower’s generation expansion task force since May 2001. He will assist with the transition of his duties to Linville and Tamimi during his remaining tenure at Sunflower.

“I cannot express enough gratitude to the Sunflower Board of Directors, both former and current members, for allowing me to spend more than three decades at Sunflower,” Nelson said. “It’s been a rewarding career filled with great people and amazing opportunities and challenges. I’ve taken immense pride in helping Sunflower meet our mission to provide wholesale energy services at the lowest possible cost to our member-owners. It will be hard to leave, but I’m confident Sunflower is in good hands with the recent appointments of Corey and Al.”

Linville joined Sunflower in 1993 and was promoted to vice president of power supply and delivery in 2013. A member of Sunflower’s executive team, his responsibilities have included system operations, resource planning, power contracts, market operations, and member services. As senior vice president and chief operations officer of generation and power supply, he will also lead generation operations and generation engineering.

Tamimi joined Sunflower in 2001 and was promoted to vice president of transmission planning and policy in 2015. Also a member of Sunflower’s executive team, his responsibilities have included planning and designing transmission and distribution facilities, along with engagement in transmission and market policy issues. As senior&nbsp;vice president and chief operations officer of transmission, Tamimi will also lead transmission operations and transmission engineering.

Linville and Tamimi concurred that Nelson’s impact on Sunflower, especially on the operations department, will long remain and are honored to succeed him.

“The decision by the Sunflower board illustrates their dedication and commitment to our member-owners and to the Sunflower staff,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s interim president and CEO. “There is no question that Kyle’s retirement will leave big shoes to fill, so the board chose to make organizational structure changes early to ensure a smooth transition. I have no doubt the appointments of Al and Corey will do just that.”

About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation

 Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices.

Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., Scott City, Kan. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses, is also a member of Sunflower.

For more information, visit <a href="https://sunflower.net/">sunflower.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1577977088095.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower ElectricThe Sunflower Electric Power Corp. board of directors appointed Corey Linville as senior vice president and chief operations officer of generation and power supply and Al Tamimi as senior vice president and chief operations officer of transmission, effective immediately. Linville and Tamimi succeed Kyle Nelson, who will retire at the end of 2024 after 35 years at Sunflower.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695670885186.jpeg" alt="Kyle Nelson, courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Nelson, courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Nelson joined Sunflower in 1989 and was promoted to senior vice president and chief operating officer in 2008. He served on the executive team, managed both the generation and transmission operations departments, and worked with Sunflower’s generation expansion task force since May 2001. He will assist with the transition of his duties to Linville and Tamimi during his remaining tenure at Sunflower.“I cannot express enough gratitude to the Sunflower Board of Directors, both former and current members, for allowing me to spend more than three decades at Sunflower,” Nelson said. “It’s been a rewarding career filled with great people and amazing opportunities and challenges. I’ve taken immense pride in helping Sunflower meet our mission to provide wholesale energy services at the lowest possible cost to our member-owners. It will be hard to leave, but I’m confident Sunflower is in good hands with the recent appointments of Corey and Al.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695670791279.jpeg" alt="Corey Linville, courtesy Sunflower Electric&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Corey Linville, courtesy Sunflower Electric&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Linville joined Sunflower in 1993 and was promoted to vice president of power supply and delivery in 2013. A member of Sunflower’s executive team, his responsibilities have included system operations, resource planning, power contracts, market operations, and member services. As senior vice president and chief operations officer of generation and power supply, he will also lead generation operations and generation engineering.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695670977182.jpeg" alt="Al Tamimi, courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Al Tamimi, courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Tamimi joined Sunflower in 2001 and was promoted to vice president of transmission planning and policy in 2015. Also a member of Sunflower’s executive team, his responsibilities have included planning and designing transmission and distribution facilities, along with engagement in transmission and market policy issues. As senior&nbsp;vice president and chief operations officer of transmission, Tamimi will also lead transmission operations and transmission engineering.Linville and Tamimi concurred that Nelson’s impact on Sunflower, especially on the operations department, will long remain and are honored to succeed him.“The decision by the Sunflower board illustrates their dedication and commitment to our member-owners and to the Sunflower staff,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s interim president and CEO. “There is no question that Kyle’s retirement will leave big shoes to fill, so the board chose to make organizational structure changes early to ensure a smooth transition. I have no doubt the appointments of Al and Corey will do just that.”About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices.Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., Scott City, Kan. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses, is also a member of Sunflower. For more information, visit <a href="https://sunflower.net/">sunflower.net</a>.

Sunflower appoints new chief operations officers; Nelson announces retirement

The Hays Public Library has hired a new Public Services Coordinator,&nbsp;who will work with youth and families by connecting them with books and resources as well as facilitating library programs.

Hays native Jenni Rajewski says she is&nbsp;looking forward to working with all the elementary school kids and their parents, as well as working to support the schools in all their activities and educational endeavors.

Rajewski began working at the library on September 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695655996437.jpeg" alt="Jenni Rajewski&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jenni Rajewski&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HPLThe Hays Public Library has hired a new Public Services Coordinator,&nbsp;who will work with youth and families by connecting them with books and resources as well as facilitating library programs.Hays native Jenni Rajewski says she is&nbsp;looking forward to working with all the elementary school kids and their parents, as well as working to support the schools in all their activities and educational endeavors.Rajewski began working at the library on September 11.

Hays Public Library hires youth public services coordinator

BUNKER HILL - Smoky Hills PBS announced that it is now live streaming on Hulu + Live TV, one of the nation’s largest streaming services for live television with more than 4.5 million subscribers. 

Hulu + Live TV’s subscribers will now have access to inspiring and educational content from Smoky Hills PBS like Traveling Kansas and Doctors On Call along with PBS favorites including&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3735452-1&amp;h=107279279&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbs.org%2Fshow%2Fnewshour%2F&amp;a=PBS+NEWSHOUR" target="_blank">PBS NewsHour</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3735452-1&amp;h=1384292231&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbs.org%2Fshow%2Ffrontline%2F&amp;a=FRONTLINE" target="_blank">FRONTLINE,</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3735452-1&amp;h=2529308816&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbs.org%2Fshow%2Fantiques-roadshow%2F&amp;a=ANTIQUES+ROADSHOW" target="_blank">Antiques Roadshow,</a>&nbsp;and Smoky Hills PBS KIDS channel.

Participating PBS stations like Smoky Hills PBS will make Hulu + Live TV available in more than 300 markets over the next year. This agreement represents PBS’s continued commitment to make its quality and award-winning content accessible to all Americans on as many digital platforms as possible.

“We are thrilled that one of the largest live TV streaming services is now home to&nbsp;quality local programming from PBS Member Stations,” said&nbsp;PBS Chief Digital and Marketing Officer, Ira Rubenstein. “As more and more households look to digital streaming offerings, this announcement is part of our commitment to meet audiences where they are with the PBS programming they know and love. PBS will continue to make trusted content available to all households across as many platforms as possible. We thank Hulu + Live TV for working with us to provide our viewers with more ways to watch programs through their local PBS station.”

“As one of the largest live TV streaming services in the U.S., we are committed to providing a best-in-class user experience and a premium national and local channel line-up for our millions of subscribers” said&nbsp;Reagan Feeney, SVP, Live TV Content Programming and Partnerships for Hulu.&nbsp;“PBS and PBS KIDS are among the most frequently requested channels by our subscribers and we’re thrilled to add them to our core line-up that now includes more than 90 live channels.”

PBS, PBS KIDS, and local station content is also available on PBS.org and&nbsp;<a href="http://pbskids.org/" target="_blank">pbskids.org</a>, as well as the PBS Video App and PBS KIDS Video app available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and smart TVs from Samsung and Vizio. Local PBS station members are also able to view an extended library of quality public television programming via Passport.&nbsp; Contact Smoky Hills PBS for more details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589894008864.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBSBUNKER HILL - Smoky Hills PBS announced that it is now live streaming on Hulu + Live TV, one of the nation’s largest streaming services for live television with more than 4.5 million subscribers. Hulu + Live TV’s subscribers will now have access to inspiring and educational content from Smoky Hills PBS like Traveling Kansas and Doctors On Call along with PBS favorites including&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3735452-1&amp;h=107279279&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbs.org%2Fshow%2Fnewshour%2F&amp;a=PBS+NEWSHOUR" target="_blank">PBS NewsHour</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3735452-1&amp;h=1384292231&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbs.org%2Fshow%2Ffrontline%2F&amp;a=FRONTLINE" target="_blank">FRONTLINE,</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3735452-1&amp;h=2529308816&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbs.org%2Fshow%2Fantiques-roadshow%2F&amp;a=ANTIQUES+ROADSHOW" target="_blank">Antiques Roadshow,</a>&nbsp;and Smoky Hills PBS KIDS channel.Participating PBS stations like Smoky Hills PBS will make Hulu + Live TV available in more than 300 markets over the next year. This agreement represents PBS’s continued commitment to make its quality and award-winning content accessible to all Americans on as many digital platforms as possible.“We are thrilled that one of the largest live TV streaming services is now home to&nbsp;quality local programming from PBS Member Stations,” said&nbsp;PBS Chief Digital and Marketing Officer, Ira Rubenstein. “As more and more households look to digital streaming offerings, this announcement is part of our commitment to meet audiences where they are with the PBS programming they know and love. PBS will continue to make trusted content available to all households across as many platforms as possible. We thank Hulu + Live TV for working with us to provide our viewers with more ways to watch programs through their local PBS station.”“As one of the largest live TV streaming services in the U.S., we are committed to providing a best-in-class user experience and a premium national and local channel line-up for our millions of subscribers” said&nbsp;Reagan Feeney, SVP, Live TV Content Programming and Partnerships for Hulu.&nbsp;“PBS and PBS KIDS are among the most frequently requested channels by our subscribers and we’re thrilled to add them to our core line-up that now includes more than 90 live channels.”PBS, PBS KIDS, and local station content is also available on PBS.org and&nbsp;<a href="http://pbskids.org/" target="_blank">pbskids.org</a>, as well as the PBS Video App and PBS KIDS Video app available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and smart TVs from Samsung and Vizio. Local PBS station members are also able to view an extended library of quality public television programming via Passport.&nbsp; Contact Smoky Hills PBS for more details.

Smoky Hills PBS now available to Hulu + Live TV subscribers   

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696015768886.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>

TMP-Marian (3-1, 3-0 MCL) at Russell (2-2,
2-1 MCL) Friday, September 29 - 7 p.m. Russell, Kan. – Shaffer Field Radio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595456">Monarchs Sports Network CLICK
HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marians Monarchs travel to
Russell Friday night for big MCL and 2A district match up between the two longtime
rivals. 

Both teams are looking for a rebound
performance after the Monarchs lost to Scott City last week to drop to 3-1 on
the season while Russell lost their second straight at Beloit.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Shaffer
Field in Russell. Live coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.

Friday night’s meeting is the 77th
all-time with TMP leading the series 49-26-1 but Russell has won the last two.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian (3-1, 3-0 MCL) at Russell (2-2,
2-1 MCL) Friday, September 29 - 7 p.m. Russell, Kan. – Shaffer Field Radio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595456">Monarchs Sports Network CLICK
HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The TMP-Marians Monarchs travel to
Russell Friday night for big MCL and 2A district match up between the two longtime
rivals. Both teams are looking for a rebound
performance after the Monarchs lost to Scott City last week to drop to 3-1 on
the season while Russell lost their second straight at Beloit.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Shaffer
Field in Russell. Live coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595456?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>Friday night’s meeting is the 77th
all-time with TMP leading the series 49-26-1 but Russell has won the last two.

🏈🎥 TMP opens district play at Russell

Ulysses (0-4, 0-3 GWAC) at Hays High (2-2, 1-1 WAC) Friday, September 29 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595465">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians are at home for a second straight week
as they host the Ulysses Tigers in a homecoming match up.

After a 2-0 start the Indians are looking to bounce back from
their second straight loss while the Tigers are still looking for their first
win of the season. 

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. Live
coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.

This is the 13th meeting between Hays and Ulysses. The
Indians lead the series 9 games to 3. Hays won last year’s contest in Ulysses
49-14 and have won the last four in the series. 

Ulysses won the first game played between the two in 1989 by
the score of 26-12. The Tigers and Indians met up each year from 1989 through
1995. Ulysses won the 95 game 13-6…Hays won the five games in between. The two
met up again in 2004 and 2005 in a pair of low scoring affairs…Ulysses winning
14-10 in 2004 and Hayd 3-0 in 2005. They played a pair of one score games in
2008 and 2009…Hays won both 28-21 and 13-9.

The 13th game in this series breaks a tie of 12 games with
Wilson and now is tied with the 13 games played with Hoisington. Hays and the
Cardinals last played in 1980…but the series dates back to 1929 when the
Indians won 6-0. The Cardinals won in 1930…but the two didn’t play again until
1958 and 1959 with Hoisington winning both allowing Hays to score just seven
points in each game. The series took a break until 1964 when Hoisington won
again…but that was their last in the series. Hays won the next nine against
Hoisington…in games played in 1965 through 1969…and games in 1976-77 and 1980.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ulysses (0-4, 0-3 GWAC) at Hays High (2-2, 1-1 WAC) Friday, September 29 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595465">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians are at home for a second straight week
as they host the Ulysses Tigers in a homecoming match up.After a 2-0 start the Indians are looking to bounce back from
their second straight loss while the Tigers are still looking for their first
win of the season. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. Live
coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.This is the 13th meeting between Hays and Ulysses. The
Indians lead the series 9 games to 3. Hays won last year’s contest in Ulysses
49-14 and have won the last four in the series. Ulysses won the first game played between the two in 1989 by
the score of 26-12. The Tigers and Indians met up each year from 1989 through
1995. Ulysses won the 95 game 13-6…Hays won the five games in between. The two
met up again in 2004 and 2005 in a pair of low scoring affairs…Ulysses winning
14-10 in 2004 and Hayd 3-0 in 2005. They played a pair of one score games in
2008 and 2009…Hays won both 28-21 and 13-9.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595465?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>The 13th game in this series breaks a tie of 12 games with
Wilson and now is tied with the 13 games played with Hoisington. Hays and the
Cardinals last played in 1980…but the series dates back to 1929 when the
Indians won 6-0. The Cardinals won in 1930…but the two didn’t play again until
1958 and 1959 with Hoisington winning both allowing Hays to score just seven
points in each game. The series took a break until 1964 when Hoisington won
again…but that was their last in the series. Hays won the next nine against
Hoisington…in games played in 1965 through 1969…and games in 1976-77 and 1980.

🏈🎥 Indians hosts Ulysses in homecoming matchup

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with the inaugural Limestone Preservation Award winners Jack and Kathie Crispin.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nP_jN_9URlU?si=ZqqKxZsG0lsSpv39" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with the inaugural Limestone Preservation Award winners Jack and Kathie Crispin.

🎤 Forward Ever: Post Rock Limestone Preservation Award winners Jack, Kathie Crispin

RUSSELL — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has placed Fossil Lake in Russell under a harmful algal bloom warning. Exposure through contact or ingestion can cause illness in animals and humans. 

Boating on Fossil Lake is prohibited until further notice.

According to KDHE, a harmful algae bloom means:

• Water is unsafe for humans or animals. • Avoid all contact with water. • Do not let pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. • If fish are caught, clean well with potable water and eat the fillet portion only.

For more information on the risk of Harmful Algae Blooms, visit: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696004239863.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has placed Fossil Lake in Russell under a harmful algal bloom warning. Exposure through contact or ingestion can cause illness in animals and humans. Boating on Fossil Lake is prohibited until further notice.According to KDHE, a harmful algae bloom means:• Water is unsafe for humans or animals. • Avoid all contact with water. • Do not let pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. • If fish are caught, clean well with potable water and eat the fillet portion only.For more information on the risk of Harmful Algae Blooms, visit: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Fossil Lake in Russell placed under harmful algal bloom warning

The Hays Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in an apartment complex at 527 E. 8th Thursday at approximately 8:28 p.m. 

On arrival, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the apartment. 

Fire crews deployed an attack line to extinguish the fire and it was quickly brought under control. Crews stayed on scene for several hours to clear out smoke and carbon monoxide gases in neighboring apartments. Fire damage was limited to the original apartment. 

Several occupants were treated on scene with one being transported to the hospital with non-life threating injuries. 

The cause of the fire is determined to be incendiary.&nbsp;

"It was intentionally set," Shane Preston, deputy fire chief said Friday morning. "The incident is currently under investigation by the Hays Fire and Hays Police departments."

The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department, Red Cross, and Midwest Energy for their assistance. 

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly. 

Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program at 785-628-7330.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682536756641.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Fire Dept.The Hays Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in an apartment complex at 527 E. 8th Thursday at approximately 8:28 p.m. On arrival, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the apartment. Fire crews deployed an attack line to extinguish the fire and it was quickly brought under control. Crews stayed on scene for several hours to clear out smoke and carbon monoxide gases in neighboring apartments. Fire damage was limited to the original apartment. Several occupants were treated on scene with one being transported to the hospital with non-life threating injuries. The cause of the fire is determined to be incendiary.&nbsp;"It was intentionally set," Shane Preston, deputy fire chief said Friday morning. "The incident is currently under investigation by the Hays Fire and Hays Police departments."The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department, Red Cross, and Midwest Energy for their assistance. The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly. Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program at 785-628-7330.&nbsp;

Thursday apartment fire 'intentionally set,' says Hays Fire Department  

At Fort Hays State University, our resolve to outlast and achieve is as firm and steady as our century-old limestone buildings. A great example of this resolve is our history department. Our history program is innovative, student-centered, and growing.

History students delve into the depths of time, grappling with the complexities of the human experience while surrounded by faculty who are always willing to go the extra mile to see students learn, grow, and succeed. With an unwavering dedication to research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches, our history faculty cultivate a vibrant academic experience.

I know this because I am a collector of student stories. I am often amazed at how frequently I hear from students about how their history classes have positively impacted their lives. At the center of all of these stories are the faculty – their support, encouragement, innovation, and especially how faculty challenge students to work hard and dig deeper.

One of those professors is Hollie Marquess. Hollie, a first-generation college student, grew up in Plainville, Kansas. As a kid, she loved to talk about history with her dad. He taught her to question everything, which turned out to be a very beneficial skill for a future historian.

After high school, she enrolled at FHSU, but not initially as a history major. She was hooked by a lecture on the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in her “U.S. History Since 1877” class. Hollie changed her major to history and completed both a bachelor's and master’s degree. After she completed her master’s degree, she started teaching online and returned to teach on campus in 2016.

“Rarick and the history program feel like home to me. In one capacity or another, I have been in Rarick for over 20 years,” Hollie shared.

Hollie is also the host of the Victor E. History podcast. The podcast series features about eight episodes per semester. On the podcast, she talks with students about their original research. Students need to have written an excellent research paper to be considered for the podcast, and this experience helps them to think about research in a way that is publicly accessible outside of academia. This is an essential skill for them to learn.

The topics are all fascinating, and the students do a great job. There are also episodes featuring notable alums. For example, this season, season four, Chris Dinkel, the 2023 recipient of the Young Alumni Award, is featured. Chris discusses his experience in our history program, studying for the LSAT, Columbia law, and his case that recently went to the Supreme Court. Season four will also include episodes on women in aviation, childless women in the 19th century, famine and disease in Ireland, and more!

Anyone can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music or go to <a href="https://victorehistory.com/">https://victorehistory.com/</a> to subscribe and to get notifications when new episodes are available. Season four features attacks planned on women in aviation, childless women in the 19th century, famine and disease in Ireland, and more!

The Victor E. History podcast began as a conversation between Professor Marquess and FHSU students in the History Club/Phi Alpha Theta. They talked about how she uses podcasts in the classroom, and this sparked her idea to create her own. After some searching, Hollie learned that history departments don’t tend to host podcasts; if they do, the content typically focuses on&nbsp;professors talking about their historical interests. The student-centered Hollie had a different vision.

“I wanted Victor E. History to highlight student research and our alumni doing incredible work,” Hollie said. “One of the things that my department does best is that we are very involved with our students both online and on-campus. The popular perception of historians is that we are dusty curmudgeons who are only interested in our research. That couldn’t be further from the truth in our department.”

Hollie shared that she and her faculty colleagues love getting to know the students and helping them reach their goals. She is proud of the fact that everyone in the department mentors the students throughout their time at FHSU and that mentorship doesn’t stop at graduation. They stay in contact with recent alumni and continue to mentor them as they begin new careers.

FHSU history faculty are also engaged in the larger community. They believe it is essential to expand public knowledge about historical topics.

“One of my proudest moments at FHSU, aside from pride in my students’ work, was bringing Holocaust survivor Gene Klein to campus in 2017. Now, we have Holocaust Remembrance and Education programming every April on campus and in the Hays community,” Hollie said.

Last spring, Hollie joined her colleague Dr. Amber Nickell on a faculty-led study abroad trip to Poland. While in Poland, the students learned about Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust. Hollie believes that it was an incredible experience for all of them.

“Watching our students explore places they’ve only ever read about and sharing profound learning experiences with them is worth all the work that goes into a study abroad class,” Hollie said.

This dynamic duo is making plans now to lead study-abroad classes in France, Germany, and Denmark over the next few years.

Hollie and Amber are currently working with senior history major Sarah Keiss on an exciting project.

“Sarah is someone whom I met when she came to do a college visit, and I have seen so much growth in her confidence since she’s been in our program,” Hollie said. “Last year, during our Holocaust Remembrance and Education Events, Stephen Naron of Yale University’s Fortunoff Archives visited Forsyth and was blown away by the exhibit that Sarah had created at her student job. That night, she and Stephen were chatting with Dr. Amber Nickell about how amazing Sarah is and how our trip to Poland with students, including Sarah, helped shape their future careers.”

The three colleagues decided to embark on a project that utilizes the Fortunoff Archives since Forsyth is an access site for them. They decided to focus on using 46 oral history testimonies of Holocaust survivors who settled in the Kansas City area. They are now mapping the movements of these survivors from birth to death and exploring geographic questions that they hope will reveal new knowledge on the Midwest as a place Holocaust survivors settled post-war. They plan to present this work in the spring and will publish the project and a co-written article. They hope the project will be helpful for area teachers in their classrooms.

Professor Hollie Marquess has so many beautiful stories to share about her students. And as I can attest, her students have many stories about Hollie's impact on them. She is an exceptional educator who authentically embraces our culture of care, cultivates intentional relationships, encourages student empowerment, builds self-confidence, fosters critical thinking, creates a nurturing learning environment, and provides an abundance of opportunities to maximize student growth and learning, and by&nbsp;doing so, develops generations primed for success.

Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason (Photo courtesy of&nbsp; FHSU)" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason (Photo courtesy of&nbsp; FHSU)</figcaption>
 </figure>At Fort Hays State University, our resolve to outlast and achieve is as firm and steady as our century-old limestone buildings. A great example of this resolve is our history department. Our history program is innovative, student-centered, and growing.History students delve into the depths of time, grappling with the complexities of the human experience while surrounded by faculty who are always willing to go the extra mile to see students learn, grow, and succeed. With an unwavering dedication to research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches, our history faculty cultivate a vibrant academic experience.I know this because I am a collector of student stories. I am often amazed at how frequently I hear from students about how their history classes have positively impacted their lives. At the center of all of these stories are the faculty – their support, encouragement, innovation, and especially how faculty challenge students to work hard and dig deeper.One of those professors is Hollie Marquess. Hollie, a first-generation college student, grew up in Plainville, Kansas. As a kid, she loved to talk about history with her dad. He taught her to question everything, which turned out to be a very beneficial skill for a future historian.After high school, she enrolled at FHSU, but not initially as a history major. She was hooked by a lecture on the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in her “U.S. History Since 1877” class. Hollie changed her major to history and completed both a bachelor's and master’s degree. After she completed her master’s degree, she started teaching online and returned to teach on campus in 2016.“Rarick and the history program feel like home to me. In one capacity or another, I have been in Rarick for over 20 years,” Hollie shared.Hollie is also the host of the Victor E. History podcast. The podcast series features about eight episodes per semester. On the podcast, she talks with students about their original research. Students need to have written an excellent research paper to be considered for the podcast, and this experience helps them to think about research in a way that is publicly accessible outside of academia. This is an essential skill for them to learn.The topics are all fascinating, and the students do a great job. There are also episodes featuring notable alums. For example, this season, season four, Chris Dinkel, the 2023 recipient of the Young Alumni Award, is featured. Chris discusses his experience in our history program, studying for the LSAT, Columbia law, and his case that recently went to the Supreme Court. Season four will also include episodes on women in aviation, childless women in the 19th century, famine and disease in Ireland, and more!Anyone can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music or go to <a href="https://victorehistory.com/">https://victorehistory.com/</a> to subscribe and to get notifications when new episodes are available. Season four features attacks planned on women in aviation, childless women in the 19th century, famine and disease in Ireland, and more!The Victor E. History podcast began as a conversation between Professor Marquess and FHSU students in the History Club/Phi Alpha Theta. They talked about how she uses podcasts in the classroom, and this sparked her idea to create her own. After some searching, Hollie learned that history departments don’t tend to host podcasts; if they do, the content typically focuses on&nbsp;professors talking about their historical interests. The student-centered Hollie had a different vision.“I wanted Victor E. History to highlight student research and our alumni doing incredible work,” Hollie said. “One of the things that my department does best is that we are very involved with our students both online and on-campus. The popular perception of historians is that we are dusty curmudgeons who are only interested in our research. That couldn’t be further from the truth in our department.”Hollie shared that she and her faculty colleagues love getting to know the students and helping them reach their goals. She is proud of the fact that everyone in the department mentors the students throughout their time at FHSU and that mentorship doesn’t stop at graduation. They stay in contact with recent alumni and continue to mentor them as they begin new careers.FHSU history faculty are also engaged in the larger community. They believe it is essential to expand public knowledge about historical topics.“One of my proudest moments at FHSU, aside from pride in my students’ work, was bringing Holocaust survivor Gene Klein to campus in 2017. Now, we have Holocaust Remembrance and Education programming every April on campus and in the Hays community,” Hollie said.Last spring, Hollie joined her colleague Dr. Amber Nickell on a faculty-led study abroad trip to Poland. While in Poland, the students learned about Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust. Hollie believes that it was an incredible experience for all of them.“Watching our students explore places they’ve only ever read about and sharing profound learning experiences with them is worth all the work that goes into a study abroad class,” Hollie said.This dynamic duo is making plans now to lead study-abroad classes in France, Germany, and Denmark over the next few years.Hollie and Amber are currently working with senior history major Sarah Keiss on an exciting project.“Sarah is someone whom I met when she came to do a college visit, and I have seen so much growth in her confidence since she’s been in our program,” Hollie said. “Last year, during our Holocaust Remembrance and Education Events, Stephen Naron of Yale University’s Fortunoff Archives visited Forsyth and was blown away by the exhibit that Sarah had created at her student job. That night, she and Stephen were chatting with Dr. Amber Nickell about how amazing Sarah is and how our trip to Poland with students, including Sarah, helped shape their future careers.”The three colleagues decided to embark on a project that utilizes the Fortunoff Archives since Forsyth is an access site for them. They decided to focus on using 46 oral history testimonies of Holocaust survivors who settled in the Kansas City area. They are now mapping the movements of these survivors from birth to death and exploring geographic questions that they hope will reveal new knowledge on the Midwest as a place Holocaust survivors settled post-war. They plan to present this work in the spring and will publish the project and a co-written article. They hope the project will be helpful for area teachers in their classrooms.Professor Hollie Marquess has so many beautiful stories to share about her students. And as I can attest, her students have many stories about Hollie's impact on them. She is an exceptional educator who authentically embraces our culture of care, cultivates intentional relationships, encourages student empowerment, builds self-confidence, fosters critical thinking, creates a nurturing learning environment, and provides an abundance of opportunities to maximize student growth and learning, and by&nbsp;doing so, develops generations primed for success.Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

Heart of a Tiger: Bringing history to life

The Hays Police Department responded to 86 incidents Sept. 17-23, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 86 incidents Sept. 17-23, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
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Hays Police Dept. activity report, Sept. 17-23

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 Department arrest logs, Sept. 19-23, 2023

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

There was never any doubt that Terry and Jackie Arndt’s three sons would play soccer while growing up in Wichita.

Or that they would carry on the family tradition and all wear No. 7 jerseys in club soccer, the same number worn by their dad.

Or that they would all aspire to play college ball — like their dad.

But they probably never thought that two of them would end up at the same college, playing different sports.

Middle brother Blake is a 6-foot, 4-inch forward for the Fort Hays State University men’s soccer team and in his fourth season playing for the Tigers. Youngest brother Carson is in his first year as a kicking specialist for the Tiger football team.

Jackie Arndt said their boys were playing soccer almost before they could walk, then began playing competitively at age 4 for the Wichita Cyclones under the watchful eye of their coach and father.

The family lived, ate and breathed soccer while traveling many a mile across the state and to numerous states as well while the boys were growing up.

Even then, it wasn’t a big surprise when Carson decided to pursue football in college after spending the fall semester playing two sports for three years in high school.

Oldest brother Spencer and Blake were right on cue when they took off for college to follow their dreams after successful soccer careers at Wichita Northwest High School.

Carson looked to be on a similar path when he got to play one year of high school soccer with Blake in the fall of 2017.

After Blake took off for college, Carson knew it was up to him to carry on the family name at Northwest High during the next three years.

But it just so happened that the Grizzlies football team needed a kicker his sophomore season.

So Carson decided to give football a try, while also playing his first love — soccer.

That same year, Blake transferred from the University of Central Arkansas to Fort Hays State, where he made an immediate impact with the Tigers.

He was named conference offensive player of the year and newcomer of the year in the GAC/lMIAA following his first season and has racked up numerous team, league and regional honors every year.

And Mom and Dad continued putting lots of miles on their vehicles.

Meanwhile, Wichita Northwest enjoyed a lot of success in football, and Carson lost only three games during his three-year high school career. So he knew he had a couple of options after graduation.

An obvious choice was to follow in his brothers’ and father’s footsteps and pursue the chance to play soccer in college.

But then the COVID-19 pandemic leveled a lot of plans for athletes at all levels.

College players were granted an extra year of eligibility because of COVID, changing the recruitment picture for high school athletes for a couple of years.

The Butler Community College football program in nearby El Dorado showed strong interest in Carson, so he decided to change fields.

Carson had visited FHSU to watch Blake play soccer, and after earning all-conference recognition both years at Butler, he checked out the Tiger football team.

Carson is majoring in construction management, and FHSU features a state-of-the-art facility and one of the best programs in the country in that area.

“I knew Hays was a good town and the football community, too,” he said. “And with Blake being here, I was comfortable with the campus.”

So Carson became a Tiger, won the kicking job in preseason camp and is a perfect 13-for-13 on extra-point attempts this year.

Like Blake, Carson made a splash in the Tigers’ conference immediately. He earned special teams athlete-of-the-week recognition in the MIAA after helping FHSU upset nationally ranked Northwest Missouri State 17-6 during the third game of the season.

Junior Parker Janky recently returned from an injury and is back to taking care of kickoff duties. But Carson will continue to kick extra points and field goals. Blake earned a bachelor’s degree in business management in December 2022 and decided to use his COVID year in soccer this season.

With two sons competing at the same college, Terry and Jackie anticipated the possibility of watching both play in Hays on the same weekend.

So far this season, that hasn’t happened.

The Arndts will participate in FHSU Homecoming activities for the first time and watch Carson kick at Lewis Field Stadium. The Tigers (2-2) take on Lincoln University (0-4) at 7 p.m. Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936633484.jpeg" alt="Brothers Blake and Carson Arndt are starters on two different athletic teams at Fort Hays State University — Blake for the Tiger soccer team and Carson, football. Photos by Ryan Prickett and Gillian Lynch" />
 <figcaption>Brothers Blake and Carson Arndt are starters on two different athletic teams at Fort Hays State University — Blake for the Tiger soccer team and Carson, football. Photos by Ryan Prickett and Gillian Lynch</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695935568590.jpeg" alt="1694803070614.jpg" />
 <figcaption>1694803070614.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostThere was never any doubt that Terry and Jackie Arndt’s three sons would play soccer while growing up in Wichita.Or that they would carry on the family tradition and all wear No. 7 jerseys in club soccer, the same number worn by their dad.Or that they would all aspire to play college ball — like their dad.But they probably never thought that two of them would end up at the same college, playing different sports.Middle brother Blake is a 6-foot, 4-inch forward for the Fort Hays State University men’s soccer team and in his fourth season playing for the Tigers. Youngest brother Carson is in his first year as a kicking specialist for the Tiger football team.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936707569.jpeg" alt="Blake and Carson Arndt played one year of high school soccer together before Blake went off to college. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Blake and Carson Arndt played one year of high school soccer together before Blake went off to college. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Arndt said their boys were playing soccer almost before they could walk, then began playing competitively at age 4 for the Wichita Cyclones under the watchful eye of their coach and father.The family lived, ate and breathed soccer while traveling many a mile across the state and to numerous states as well while the boys were growing up.Even then, it wasn’t a big surprise when Carson decided to pursue football in college after spending the fall semester playing two sports for three years in high school.Oldest brother Spencer and Blake were right on cue when they took off for college to follow their dreams after successful soccer careers at Wichita Northwest High School.Carson looked to be on a similar path when he got to play one year of high school soccer with Blake in the fall of 2017.After Blake took off for college, Carson knew it was up to him to carry on the family name at Northwest High during the next three years.But it just so happened that the Grizzlies football team needed a kicker his sophomore season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936746817.jpeg" alt="Jackie and Terry Arndt, with sons Carson and Blake, have made it a priority to attend as many of their sons’ games as possible from the time they were youngsters. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jackie and Terry Arndt, with sons Carson and Blake, have made it a priority to attend as many of their sons’ games as possible from the time they were youngsters. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>So Carson decided to give football a try, while also playing his first love — soccer.That same year, Blake transferred from the University of Central Arkansas to Fort Hays State, where he made an immediate impact with the Tigers.He was named conference offensive player of the year and newcomer of the year in the GAC/lMIAA following his first season and has racked up numerous team, league and regional honors every year.And Mom and Dad continued putting lots of miles on their vehicles.Meanwhile, Wichita Northwest enjoyed a lot of success in football, and Carson lost only three games during his three-year high school career. So he knew he had a couple of options after graduation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936794100.jpeg" alt="Carson Arndt lost only three games during his kicking career for the Wichita Northwest High School football team. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Carson Arndt lost only three games during his kicking career for the Wichita Northwest High School football team. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>An obvious choice was to follow in his brothers’ and father’s footsteps and pursue the chance to play soccer in college.But then the COVID-19 pandemic leveled a lot of plans for athletes at all levels.College players were granted an extra year of eligibility because of COVID, changing the recruitment picture for high school athletes for a couple of years.The Butler Community College football program in nearby El Dorado showed strong interest in Carson, so he decided to change fields.It’s been a good fit for him.Carson had visited FHSU to watch Blake play soccer, and after earning all-conference recognition both years at Butler, he checked out the Tiger football team.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936847700.jpeg" alt="Arndt brothers Blake, Carson and Spencer all wore No. 7 jerseys during club soccer, the same number worn by their father in college. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Arndt brothers Blake, Carson and Spencer all wore No. 7 jerseys during club soccer, the same number worn by their father in college. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Carson is majoring in construction management, and FHSU features a state-of-the-art facility and one of the best programs in the country in that area.“I knew Hays was a good town and the football community, too,” he said. “And with Blake being here, I was comfortable with the campus.”So Carson became a Tiger, won the kicking job in preseason camp and is a perfect 13-for-13 on extra-point attempts this year.Like Blake, Carson made a splash in the Tigers’ conference immediately. He earned special teams athlete-of-the-week recognition in the MIAA after helping FHSU upset nationally ranked Northwest Missouri State 17-6 during the third game of the season.Junior Parker Janky recently returned from an injury and is back to taking care of kickoff duties. But Carson will continue to kick extra points and field goals. Blake earned a bachelor’s degree in business management in December 2022 and decided to use his COVID year in soccer this season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936890416.jpeg" alt="Blake Arndt earned all-state honors two years during his high school soccer career before taking his talents to the next level. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Blake Arndt earned all-state honors two years during his high school soccer career before taking his talents to the next level. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>With two sons competing at the same college, Terry and Jackie anticipated the possibility of watching both play in Hays on the same weekend.So far this season, that hasn’t happened.The Arndts will participate in FHSU Homecoming activities for the first time and watch Carson kick at Lewis Field Stadium. The Tigers (2-2) take on Lincoln University (0-4) at 7 p.m. Saturday.The Tiger soccer team (2-5) is on the road for a two-game stand in Arkansas.With this being Blake’s final year of collegiate soccer, the Arndts usually try to attend most of his soccer games if there is an overlap with football. But they decided to stream Blake’s games this weekend and come to Hays for Carson’s first homecoming at FHSU.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936943052.jpeg" alt="Just like his older brothers, Carson Arndt excelled in soccer growing up before he decided to concentrate on football in college. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Just like his older brothers, Carson Arndt excelled in soccer growing up before he decided to concentrate on football in college. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Spencer lives in Wichita but has prior commitments this weekend, so he will stream both teams to watch his brothers’ games.While Homecoming weekends are always exciting, the Arndts are especially looking forward to Oct. 14.The Tiger football team will entertain the University of Nebraska-Kearney at 1 p.m. on that Saturday, and FHSU soccer is scheduled to take on Rogers State (Okla.) University at 6 that evening.“This is pretty neat, both of us being here competing at the same college,” Blake said. “It’s not something a lot of brothers get to do, and we get to experience it for at least one year.”And you can bet that Terry and Jackie Arndt will be booking a hotel room for Oct. 14 in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695936982319.jpeg" alt="The Arndt brothers — Blake, Spencer and Carson — have made a lifetime of following their siblings’ sporting events and still form a close bond today as young adults. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Arndt brothers — Blake, Spencer and Carson — have made a lifetime of following their siblings’ sporting events and still form a close bond today as young adults. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>