Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTUuODI2NjM3ODEifQ.ByPMtxXevQRaNCpjuDOOVNWxqz3xEzvx0CsnAEThGJ8/s/1305913623/br/226009880760-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

The state of Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:&nbsp;

A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist. &nbsp;

A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. &nbsp;Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;

A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;

During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels&nbsp;below&nbsp;the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions. &nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.&nbsp;

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE1LjgyNjYzNzgxIn0.1sStDBNG73FDx3dlicfv-gZjbt6RcPMm0VETJjovlNc/s/1305913623/br/226009880760-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE1LjgyNjYzNzgxIn0.-RF57GocxcZ3HYBon7Dp7VqSXCliuBQeaMcXoVfDToE/s/1305913623/br/226009880760-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTUuODI2NjM3ODEifQ.ByPMtxXevQRaNCpjuDOOVNWxqz3xEzvx0CsnAEThGJ8/s/1305913623/br/226009880760-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active Advisories&nbsp;Warning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Lake Afton, Sedgwick County&nbsp;</li><li>Lovewell Lake, Jewell County&nbsp;</li><li>South Lake (Overland Park), Johnson County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte County (Added September 15)</li><li>Fossil Lake, Russell County&nbsp;</li><li>Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County&nbsp;</li><li>Rock Garden Pond, Shawnee County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Lifted<ul>
 <li>Ellis City Lake, Ellis County (Lifted September 15)</li><li>Lake Parsons, Neosho County (Lifted September 15)</li><li>Augusta Santa Fe Lake, Butler County (Lifted September 15)</li>
 </ul>The state of Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:&nbsp;A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist. &nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. &nbsp;Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock. &nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans. &nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided. &nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded. &nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae. &nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible. &nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation. &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.&nbsp;</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels&nbsp;below&nbsp;the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions. &nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.&nbsp;For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE1LjgyNjYzNzgxIn0.1sStDBNG73FDx3dlicfv-gZjbt6RcPMm0VETJjovlNc/s/1305913623/br/226009880760-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE1LjgyNjYzNzgxIn0.-RF57GocxcZ3HYBon7Dp7VqSXCliuBQeaMcXoVfDToE/s/1305913623/br/226009880760-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

Fossil Lake in Russell on algae watch list; Ellis City Lake removed

TMP-Marian (2-0, 2-0 MCL) vs Plainville (0-2, 0-2 MCL) Friday, September 15 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595454">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs look for their second-straight 3-0
start Friday night when they host the Plainville Cardinals for Homecoming in a
Mid-Continent League showdown.

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

The Monarchs are coming off a pair of convincing wins,
including a dominant win over the Ellis Railroaders.

Plainville is still looking for their first win of the
season after coming up short last week against Russell.

TMP has won three straight games against Plainville and
leads the all-time series 8-7 with the first meeting dating all the way back to
1926.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian (2-0, 2-0 MCL) vs Plainville (0-2, 0-2 MCL) Friday, September 15 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595454">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs look for their second-straight 3-0
start Friday night when they host the Plainville Cardinals for Homecoming in a
Mid-Continent League showdown.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. Live
coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.The Monarchs are coming off a pair of convincing wins,
including a dominant win over the Ellis Railroaders.Plainville is still looking for their first win of the
season after coming up short last week against Russell.TMP has won three straight games against Plainville and
leads the all-time series 8-7 with the first meeting dating all the way back to
1926.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595454?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 TMP hosts MCL rival Plainville for Homecoming

#3 Hays High (2-0, 1-0 WAC) at No. 3 Manhattan (2-0, 1-0 CL) Friday, September 15 - 7 p.m. Manhattan, Kan. – Bishop Stadium Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595462">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians travel to Manhattan Friday night for a
battle of ranked teams.

The Manhattan Indians are ranked third this week in class 6A
while the Hays High Indians are third in class 5A.

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

Both teams are coming off wins in the first two weeks of the
season and are 2-0 to start the season.

Hays and Manhattan have played five prior times. The Indians
from Hays High have been on the short end of the scoreboard each time. The two
played from 1973 through 1976 before picking the series back up last season.

The closest game between the two was the first in 1973, which Manhattan won 7-0.
There are nine teams that Hays has played but never beat. For five of those, there
was more than one game played. Hays is 0-5 versus Manhattan, 0-3 versus
Hutchinson and 0-2 against Blue Valley (2006-2007), Wamego (2016-2017),
and…Smith Center…two games played in 1933 and 1934.&nbsp;

The sixth game in this series between Hays and Manhattan puts
it into a tie with games played against Ellsworth. &nbsp;The Indians last
played the Bearcats in 1936.

Ellsworth pretty much owned the series. Hays won
the first game in 1921…we could not locate a score for the 1922 game…the
Ellsworth team won the next four games 10-0 in 1923, 13-6, in 1924…7-6 in 1935 and
12-6 in 1936.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>#3 Hays High (2-0, 1-0 WAC) at No. 3 Manhattan (2-0, 1-0 CL) Friday, September 15 - 7 p.m. Manhattan, Kan. – Bishop Stadium Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595462">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians travel to Manhattan Friday night for a
battle of ranked teams.The Manhattan Indians are ranked third this week in class 6A
while the Hays High Indians are third in class 5A.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Bishop Stadium in Manhattan.
Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.Both teams are coming off wins in the first two weeks of the
season and are 2-0 to start the season.Hays and Manhattan have played five prior times. The Indians
from Hays High have been on the short end of the scoreboard each time. The two
played from 1973 through 1976 before picking the series back up last season.The closest game between the two was the first in 1973, which Manhattan won 7-0.
There are nine teams that Hays has played but never beat. For five of those, there
was more than one game played. Hays is 0-5 versus Manhattan, 0-3 versus
Hutchinson and 0-2 against Blue Valley (2006-2007), Wamego (2016-2017),
and…Smith Center…two games played in 1933 and 1934.&nbsp;The sixth game in this series between Hays and Manhattan puts
it into a tie with games played against Ellsworth. &nbsp;The Indians last
played the Bearcats in 1936.Ellsworth pretty much owned the series. Hays won
the first game in 1921…we could not locate a score for the 1922 game…the
Ellsworth team won the next four games 10-0 in 1923, 13-6, in 1924…7-6 in 1935 and
12-6 in 1936.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595462?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 Hays travels to Manhattan for battle of ranked teams

Ellis County was stable in August compared to July at 2.4 percent.

Rooks County's unemployment rate dropped by .2 percent, and Trego County's rate also decreased slightly by .4 percent.

Overall unemployment in northwest Kansas remains low, ranging from 2 to 3 percent as reported by the Kansas Department of Labor report released Friday. The exception was Decatur County, which reported a 4.3 percent unemployment rate in August.

Preliminary estimates for the entire state reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Aug2023%20SA%20Rate%20Chart%20File.pdf">seasonally adjusted unemployment rate</a>&nbsp;of 2.7 percent in August. This is unchanged from 2.7 percent in July and a decrease from 2.8 percent in August 2022.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 4,100 from July. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Aug2023%20SA%20PrivateEmpl%20Chart%20File.pdf">Private sector jobs</a>&nbsp;decreased by 2,700 over the month, while government decreased by 1,400.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694790951463.png" alt="Courtesy image." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Labor&nbsp;Ellis County was stable in August compared to July at 2.4 percent.Rooks County's unemployment rate dropped by .2 percent, and Trego County's rate also decreased slightly by .4 percent.Overall unemployment in northwest Kansas remains low, ranging from 2 to 3 percent as reported by the Kansas Department of Labor report released Friday. The exception was Decatur County, which reported a 4.3 percent unemployment rate in August.Preliminary estimates for the entire state reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Aug2023%20SA%20Rate%20Chart%20File.pdf">seasonally adjusted unemployment rate</a>&nbsp;of 2.7 percent in August. This is unchanged from 2.7 percent in July and a decrease from 2.8 percent in August 2022.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 4,100 from July. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Aug2023%20SA%20PrivateEmpl%20Chart%20File.pdf">Private sector jobs</a>&nbsp;decreased by 2,700 over the month, while government decreased by 1,400.

Unemployment rate stable in Ellis County in August

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;101.9 The Bull's Dustin Armbruster speaks with Lauren Corzine about their upcoming show, RED, A Taylor Swift Tribute, coming to Hays Sept. 15.

<div><iframe title="RED: A Taylor Swift tribute show comes to Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kcret-14a82f3-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;101.9 The Bull's Dustin Armbruster speaks with Lauren Corzine about their upcoming show, RED, A Taylor Swift Tribute, coming to Hays Sept. 15.

🎙 Post Podcast: RED, A Taylor Swift Tribute comes to Hays Sept. 15

Thursday, area residents came together to allow children of all ages the opportunity to explore their favorite vehicles during USD 489 Early Childhood Connections' Go Truck Go.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795368293.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday, area residents came together to allow children of all ages the opportunity to explore their favorite vehicles during USD 489 Early Childhood Connections' Go Truck Go.Take a look at some of the fun below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795407644.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795416810.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795426696.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795437860.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795447658.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795457206.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795478558.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795488665.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795499202.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795509156.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795519505.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795538470.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795550188.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795560049.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795570639.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795581057.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795593317.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694795603761.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

 📷 Area children explore vehicles of all types during Go Truck Go

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The festival, which has been conducted in Topeka, is having a second day of activities from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday on the quad of the Fort Hays State University campus. This is the first year the festival has had events in western Kansas.

If the weather is inclement (rain, excess heat or wind) the event will move inside to the ballroom of the FHSU Union.

Many of the authors who will be attending the festival in Topeka on Saturday will travel to Hays the next day for the Kansas Book Fest West.

The event is designed to have activities and feature literature for all ages, including children. The event will have fun literacy-building games for children, food trucks, music, the Hays Public Library Bookmobile, books for sale and author readings.

Free books will be available through the Liberate Books Project. The Russell Speciality Books and Gifts will be on hand to sell books by the presenting authors as well as other books and related items.

FHSU's Creative Arts Society also will be participating with a focus on art in books.

 On Monday, FHSU is also hosting the Young Reader's Conference. Some authors will be participating in both events. The conference brings hundreds of third- through fifth-grade students to FHSU to promote reading and writing. Some authors also will be presenting at local schools as part of the conference.

"The goal is to have kids out here to have that opportunity to meet authors and know these books are created by real people with real experiences that are not too far from their own," said Carrie Tholstrup, an organizer of the event and FHSU faculty member.

Both events aim to boost an interest in reading among all ages, she said.

"Reading should be fun," she said. "It's not just a chore. It is an important skill. It's very important that we teach it in certain ways, but we also want it to be fun and is a way for students to connect their own experiences to the experiences of other people ... and to find passions."

Genres for Kansas Book Fest West include children's literature, non-fiction, fiction and poetry, and both Kansas authors and those from across the country.

Below is a complete list of all of the authors who will be attending the festival.

Mandy Kern is from the Cheyenne Bottoms area, and she will be reading from her book "Ava: A Year of Adventure in the Life of an American Avocet." Avocets, large water birds, can be spotted in the Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend.

Kate Benz is from South Dakota. She also will be presenting at 6 p.m. Monday in the Schmidt Community Commons of the Hays Public Library in addition to Book Fest. Benz's non-fiction stories are based in rural Kansas and discuss the plight of rural America.

Hannah Harrison of Oklahoma is a children's author. Sarah Broman Miller, one of the organizers of the festival and FHSU faculty member, said she was struck by Harrison's story about how she became a children's book author.

"When she was a child in elementary school, she fell in love with art," Broman Miller said.&nbsp; She found out very early that she had a special gift in drawing and writing stories. An elementary teacher told her, 'You know you can do this for a living.'"

Harrison&nbsp;decided at a very young age that was what she was going to do.

"That's why I wanted her to come to this, so she could encourage other students who just haven't found their niche yet," Broman Miller said. "This might be an avenue they could go down."

Violeta Cornett, author of "My Aunt Flor," is a children's author from Colby. She also will be reading at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Monday at the Hays Public Library.

Nancy McCabe of Pennsylvania will be sharing her young adult book "Vaulting Through Time."

Lindsay Metcalf of Concordia will be reading from her book "No World Too Big: Young People Fighting Global Climate Change." Her book is geared to children 5 through 9. She also will be speaking to O'Loughllin Elementary School students on Monday.

Janice Northerns will be presenting from her collection of poetry, "Some Electric Hum." She also will be meeting with FHSU English students on Monday.

Husband and wife Tim and Cathleen Bascom will be reading from their books. Both authors draw inspiration from the natural environment of with an eye toward prairie preservation.

Cathleen is an Episcopal bishop. Her novel is "Of Green Stuff Woven," which pits a group who wishes to preserve their rural Episcopal cathedral and the surrounding prairie in the face of a potential hotel development.

Tim Bascom is the author of a collection of stories on fathers and sons titled "Climbing Lessons: Stories of Fathers, Sons, and the Bond Between."

Jen Bailey's novel "Unexpecting" is the story of teens and their families dealing with an unexpected pregnancy.

Kathleen Wilford's "Cabby Potts, Duchess of Dirt," is a historical novel geared toward students in the middle grades. Wilford is from New Jersey.

This is the first year for the Kansas Book Fest West, but Broman Miller said she hopes the festival will become a regular event that grows.

&nbsp;Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to spread out on the grass in the quad.

Broman Miller said she would provide blankets under trees in the quad so children can look at or read books while their parents listen to readings or do other things at the festival.

Readings will be offered by the participating authors throughout the afternoon, with live music in between.

"What we really want is that one-on-one opportunity to meet authors," Tholstrup said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694632641753.jpg" alt="Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Kansas Book Fest is moving west.The festival, which has been conducted in Topeka, is having a second day of activities from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday on the quad of the Fort Hays State University campus. This is the first year the festival has had events in western Kansas.If the weather is inclement (rain, excess heat or wind) the event will move inside to the ballroom of the FHSU Union.Many of the authors who will be attending the festival in Topeka on Saturday will travel to Hays the next day for the Kansas Book Fest West.The event is designed to have activities and feature literature for all ages, including children. The event will have fun literacy-building games for children, food trucks, music, the Hays Public Library Bookmobile, books for sale and author readings.Free books will be available through the Liberate Books Project. The Russell Speciality Books and Gifts will be on hand to sell books by the presenting authors as well as other books and related items.Authors will be available to sign books.FHSU's Creative Arts Society also will be participating with a focus on art in books. On Monday, FHSU is also hosting the Young Reader's Conference. Some authors will be participating in both events. The conference brings hundreds of third- through fifth-grade students to FHSU to promote reading and writing. Some authors also will be presenting at local schools as part of the conference."The goal is to have kids out here to have that opportunity to meet authors and know these books are created by real people with real experiences that are not too far from their own," said Carrie Tholstrup, an organizer of the event and FHSU faculty member.Both events aim to boost an interest in reading among all ages, she said."Reading should be fun," she said. "It's not just a chore. It is an important skill. It's very important that we teach it in certain ways, but we also want it to be fun and is a way for students to connect their own experiences to the experiences of other people ... and to find passions."Genres for Kansas Book Fest West include children's literature, non-fiction, fiction and poetry, and both Kansas authors and those from across the country.Below is a complete list of all of the authors who will be attending the festival.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694621141200.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mandy Kern is from the Cheyenne Bottoms area, and she will be reading from her book "Ava: A Year of Adventure in the Life of an American Avocet." Avocets, large water birds, can be spotted in the Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend.Kate Benz is from South Dakota. She also will be presenting at 6 p.m. Monday in the Schmidt Community Commons of the Hays Public Library in addition to Book Fest. Benz's non-fiction stories are based in rural Kansas and discuss the plight of rural America.Hannah Harrison of Oklahoma is a children's author. Sarah Broman Miller, one of the organizers of the festival and FHSU faculty member, said she was struck by Harrison's story about how she became a children's book author."When she was a child in elementary school, she fell in love with art," Broman Miller said.&nbsp; She found out very early that she had a special gift in drawing and writing stories. An elementary teacher told her, 'You know you can do this for a living.'"Harrison&nbsp;decided at a very young age that was what she was going to do."That's why I wanted her to come to this, so she could encourage other students who just haven't found their niche yet," Broman Miller said. "This might be an avenue they could go down."Violeta Cornett, author of "My Aunt Flor," is a children's author from Colby. She also will be reading at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Monday at the Hays Public Library.Nancy McCabe of Pennsylvania will be sharing her young adult book "Vaulting Through Time."Lindsay Metcalf of Concordia will be reading from her book "No World Too Big: Young People Fighting Global Climate Change." Her book is geared to children 5 through 9. She also will be speaking to O'Loughllin Elementary School students on Monday.Janice Northerns will be presenting from her collection of poetry, "Some Electric Hum." She also will be meeting with FHSU English students on Monday.Husband and wife Tim and Cathleen Bascom will be reading from their books. Both authors draw inspiration from the natural environment of with an eye toward prairie preservation.Cathleen is an Episcopal bishop. Her novel is "Of Green Stuff Woven," which pits a group who wishes to preserve their rural Episcopal cathedral and the surrounding prairie in the face of a potential hotel development.Tim Bascom is the author of a collection of stories on fathers and sons titled "Climbing Lessons: Stories of Fathers, Sons, and the Bond Between."Jen Bailey's novel "Unexpecting" is the story of teens and their families dealing with an unexpected pregnancy.Kathleen Wilford's "Cabby Potts, Duchess of Dirt," is a historical novel geared toward students in the middle grades. Wilford is from New Jersey.This is the first year for the Kansas Book Fest West, but Broman Miller said she hopes the festival will become a regular event that grows.&nbsp;Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to spread out on the grass in the quad.Broman Miller said she would provide blankets under trees in the quad so children can look at or read books while their parents listen to readings or do other things at the festival.Readings will be offered by the participating authors throughout the afternoon, with live music in between."What we really want is that one-on-one opportunity to meet authors," Tholstrup said.

Kansas Book Fest West to bring in authors for afternoon of literacy games, readings

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that 27 cities across Kansas, including several in northwest Kansas, will receive a total of $22 million for projects to improve intersections and state highways extending through cities as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s City Connecting Link Improvement Program.

“My administration is committed to preserving and improving Kansas highways by investing transportation dollars in the projects where they can do the most good,”&nbsp;said Kelly. “Thanks to our increasingly solid financial footing at the state and federal levels, Kansas is finding ways to solve problems and bring resources directly to communities across the state.”&nbsp;

KDOT was able to increase program funding for this selection cycle due to additional federal funds coming to Kansas as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation. The program will provide $5.1 million in state fiscal year 2025 and $16.9 million in state fiscal year 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both federal and state funds are designated for the program. Local matching funds are required based on city population.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In total for this cycle, KDOT received 60 applications requesting $53 million.&nbsp;

“Pooling resources is an excellent way for cities to maximize the benefits of additional funding for local transportation investments,”&nbsp;said Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “Investing in highways that also serve as city streets is a huge benefit to communities to improve safety and create a better environment for business activity.”&nbsp;

Projects can be submitted in three categories: Surface Preservation, which involves maintenance work such as resurfacing; Pavement Restoration, which includes full-depth pavement replacement and possibly drainage issues; and Geometric Improvement, which addresses turn lanes, intersection improvements, or modifications to lane configurations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the state fiscal year 2025, the city, category, and amount awarded program funds include:&nbsp;

For the fiscal year 2026, the city, category, and amount awarded program funds include:&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684955618513.jpeg" alt="Photo by&nbsp; Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by&nbsp; Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that 27 cities across Kansas, including several in northwest Kansas, will receive a total of $22 million for projects to improve intersections and state highways extending through cities as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s City Connecting Link Improvement Program.“My administration is committed to preserving and improving Kansas highways by investing transportation dollars in the projects where they can do the most good,”&nbsp;said Kelly. “Thanks to our increasingly solid financial footing at the state and federal levels, Kansas is finding ways to solve problems and bring resources directly to communities across the state.”&nbsp;KDOT was able to increase program funding for this selection cycle due to additional federal funds coming to Kansas as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation. The program will provide $5.1 million in state fiscal year 2025 and $16.9 million in state fiscal year 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both federal and state funds are designated for the program. Local matching funds are required based on city population.&nbsp;&nbsp;In total for this cycle, KDOT received 60 applications requesting $53 million.&nbsp;“Pooling resources is an excellent way for cities to maximize the benefits of additional funding for local transportation investments,”&nbsp;said Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “Investing in highways that also serve as city streets is a huge benefit to communities to improve safety and create a better environment for business activity.”&nbsp;Projects can be submitted in three categories: Surface Preservation, which involves maintenance work such as resurfacing; Pavement Restoration, which includes full-depth pavement replacement and possibly drainage issues; and Geometric Improvement, which addresses turn lanes, intersection improvements, or modifications to lane configurations.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the state fiscal year 2025, the city, category, and amount awarded program funds include:&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694622210965.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For the fiscal year 2026, the city, category, and amount awarded program funds include:&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694622135506.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NW Kansas cities among those to receive KDOT grants for highway improvements

The Applied Technology Career Day, now in its eighth year at Fort Hays State University, brought a record number of 67 companies to campus to meet, discuss career opportunities, and interview applied technology students. A special addition to this year’s career fair was the participation of students from FHSU’s affiliation initiative partners NCK Tech and Northwest Tech.

FHSU’s strategic affiliation initiative with NCK Tech and Northwest Tech, announced last January, was launched to forge strong connections between the three institutions, their students, and the communities and businesses of western Kansas. 

Participation in the career fair enabled faculty and staff to develop new synergies and explore opportunities for collaboration.

“I think students from the affiliation schools are enjoying the day,” said Kim Stewart, FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology chair. “What I’m hoping is that they not only find some internships or full-time employment, but maybe we can entice them to see the other opportunities at Fort Hays as well.”

Mike Zimmerman, engineering technology instructor for Northwest Tech, saw many of those same advantages to bringing students, nine from engineering and six from construction technology, to the career fair. He said the fair served a dual purpose: finding pathways to jobs and internships and learning more about the opportunities FHSU can provide for bachelor's degrees leading to mid-level management and higher.

“Fort Hays has different capabilities than we have, and we have different capabilities than Fort Hays,” Zimmerman said. “This gives us a chance to partner up. If there’s something we can help them with, we are glad to do it.”

For Lucas Ward, Fort Collins, Colo., and Elijah Mills, Haigler, Neb., both civil engineering majors from NW Tech, the opportunity to meet potential employers was a motivating factor in coming to the career fair.

“I’m looking at this from an ag background,” Mills said. “There are a lot of companies here that tie into my career path. It’s nice to explore the different possibilities with mechanical companies, integration with implements, and areas like that.”

Eric Denault, associate professor of applied technology, said the successful placement of FHSU graduates could be attributed to activities such as the career fair. FHSU’s applied technology department boasts a 98 percent job placement rate.

“These companies are looking for students as young as freshmen with little to no experience,” he said. “We have a lot of repeat interns. Some students will do internships their junior year, sign a letter of intent, return to complete their senior year, then graduate and work for that company.”

Stewart said he looks forward to the career fair, which he has seen grow over its eight-year history, as a highly rewarding event each year.

“It’s good when we can get students connected to so many businesses,” he said. “These companies are looking for hard-working young men and women. It’s a fun day when we get everybody in the same place, let them talk together, and make connections. This is what it’s all about.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694633865763.jpeg" alt="The Applied Technology Career Day brought employers to the FHSU campus to present career opportunities to students from FHSU, NCK Tech and Northwest Tech. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>The Applied Technology Career Day brought employers to the FHSU campus to present career opportunities to students from FHSU, NCK Tech and Northwest Tech. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsThe Applied Technology Career Day, now in its eighth year at Fort Hays State University, brought a record number of 67 companies to campus to meet, discuss career opportunities, and interview applied technology students. A special addition to this year’s career fair was the participation of students from FHSU’s affiliation initiative partners NCK Tech and Northwest Tech.FHSU’s strategic affiliation initiative with NCK Tech and Northwest Tech, announced last January, was launched to forge strong connections between the three institutions, their students, and the communities and businesses of western Kansas. Participation in the career fair enabled faculty and staff to develop new synergies and explore opportunities for collaboration.“I think students from the affiliation schools are enjoying the day,” said Kim Stewart, FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology chair. “What I’m hoping is that they not only find some internships or full-time employment, but maybe we can entice them to see the other opportunities at Fort Hays as well.”Mike Zimmerman, engineering technology instructor for Northwest Tech, saw many of those same advantages to bringing students, nine from engineering and six from construction technology, to the career fair. He said the fair served a dual purpose: finding pathways to jobs and internships and learning more about the opportunities FHSU can provide for bachelor's degrees leading to mid-level management and higher.“Fort Hays has different capabilities than we have, and we have different capabilities than Fort Hays,” Zimmerman said. “This gives us a chance to partner up. If there’s something we can help them with, we are glad to do it.”For Lucas Ward, Fort Collins, Colo., and Elijah Mills, Haigler, Neb., both civil engineering majors from NW Tech, the opportunity to meet potential employers was a motivating factor in coming to the career fair.“I’m looking at this from an ag background,” Mills said. “There are a lot of companies here that tie into my career path. It’s nice to explore the different possibilities with mechanical companies, integration with implements, and areas like that.”Eric Denault, associate professor of applied technology, said the successful placement of FHSU graduates could be attributed to activities such as the career fair. FHSU’s applied technology department boasts a 98 percent job placement rate.“These companies are looking for students as young as freshmen with little to no experience,” he said. “We have a lot of repeat interns. Some students will do internships their junior year, sign a letter of intent, return to complete their senior year, then graduate and work for that company.”Stewart said he looks forward to the career fair, which he has seen grow over its eight-year history, as a highly rewarding event each year.“It’s good when we can get students connected to so many businesses,” he said. “These companies are looking for hard-working young men and women. It’s a fun day when we get everybody in the same place, let them talk together, and make connections. This is what it’s all about.”

FHSU’s Applied Technology Career Fair expands its impact

We welcomed 473 student-athletes, including 17 women wrestlers (our newest sport), to campus this year. These numbers are important for two reasons. First, student-athletes comprise roughly 12% of our total on-campus student population. The second is that college athletics are important drivers of student success and our mission to develop engaged global citizen leaders.

College and athletics are also excellent vehicles to promote generational wealth, critical to our vision to be accessible to those who seek higher education, unlocking potential aligned with the democratic, economic, and social needs of our communities, our region, and our world.

Many believe college athletics is a revenue stream. For most division two universities, it is not. It is an expense, or more accurately, an investment in our mission. It is an intentional strategy to drive student success and produce outstanding graduates who will become leaders in business and industry and engaged in community and professional associations.

Each year at our Athletic Hall of Fame celebration, I share my firm belief that our athletic program is core to who we are as an institution. We look to student-athletes to help us tell our story by how they practice and play, their character on and off the field, and their success in the classroom, the community, and the board room.

When you think about it, as a society, when we need inspiration, by and large, we turn to athletes because their stories depict grit and determination, perseverance, and triumph over adversity, qualities and characteristics also attributed to Fort Hays State University.

In a FutureU podcast (May 30, 2023), co-hosts Jeff Selingo and Michael Horn discuss how athletes make great employees: known for their deep work ethic, executive function skills, desire to do well and win, and a sense of fairness and competition.

In a LinkedIn post, Chris Valletta cites a study published by Atlantic indicating that athletes earn 5% to 15% more than their non-athlete peers. He also quotes a Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies study that athletes are more self-confident and possess better leadership skills than students who opt for other extra-curricular activities.

Vallenta identifies reasons why one should hire an athlete. First, they are passionate about their work. Being an athlete is indicative of the drive for which employers are searching. He also specifies that for the same reason, employers also prefer musicians, writers, and anyone who spends a lot of time mastering a skill. Also on Chris’ list are characteristics such as being detail-oriented, goal-oriented, emotionally strong, developing exceptional time management skills, leadership skills, and being a good team player.

These are among the reasons Fort Hays State continues to make a continued investment in college athletics. I am grateful for our many philanthropic donors who also invest in our athletic programs, driving our mission while enhancing the athlete experience through scholarships, equipment, and facilities that make the athletes’ efforts worthwhile.

Our coaches and staff are critical to the athletic student success strategy and understand their central role in developing the character and skill set required to create engaged citizen leaders. I am grateful for the hearts and focus of our athletics staff.

Our emphasis on student success is part of our strategic plan and critical to our promise of driving access and affordability. We have many strategies to drive student success from scholarships, targeted first-generation college student programs, comprehensive student and academic support services, and several best practices, including care teams, an award-winning orientation program (40 Days at the Fort), learning communities, professional advising, and numerous student engagement practices in and out of the classroom.

Ultimately, how we measure our progress on student success is through measures of persistence (do students stay in college) and graduation rates. Similar to studies indicating that athletes often outperform non-athletes on the job, the success rates of our college athletes (remaining in college and graduating) are consistently higher than the overall college student population. In our most recent NCAA report, the graduation of our student-athletes was 7% higher than our overall student body.

This college athlete success reflects that this past academic year, ten Tiger athletes earned Academic All-American honors (Heart of a Tiger July 20, 2023 column). Ten Academic All-Americans was the most in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and by far the most in FHSU’s history. The Academic All-America program recognizes student-athletes who excel in the classroom and athletic competition. To qualify for consideration, a student-athlete must be a starter or important reserve with at least a 3.30 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale). Fort Hays State has produced 68 Academic All-America selections since our first selection in 1975.

Investing in college athletics has several benefits, including increased visibility and brand recognition that drive student enrollment and community and alumni engagement. Most importantly, our athletics program effectively increases student graduation rates, develops outstanding employees and entrepreneurs, enhances generational wealth, and is core to our mission to create engaged citizen leaders.

Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, FHSU president. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, FHSU president. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>We welcomed 473 student-athletes, including 17 women wrestlers (our newest sport), to campus this year. These numbers are important for two reasons. First, student-athletes comprise roughly 12% of our total on-campus student population. The second is that college athletics are important drivers of student success and our mission to develop engaged global citizen leaders.College and athletics are also excellent vehicles to promote generational wealth, critical to our vision to be accessible to those who seek higher education, unlocking potential aligned with the democratic, economic, and social needs of our communities, our region, and our world.Many believe college athletics is a revenue stream. For most division two universities, it is not. It is an expense, or more accurately, an investment in our mission. It is an intentional strategy to drive student success and produce outstanding graduates who will become leaders in business and industry and engaged in community and professional associations.Each year at our Athletic Hall of Fame celebration, I share my firm belief that our athletic program is core to who we are as an institution. We look to student-athletes to help us tell our story by how they practice and play, their character on and off the field, and their success in the classroom, the community, and the board room.When you think about it, as a society, when we need inspiration, by and large, we turn to athletes because their stories depict grit and determination, perseverance, and triumph over adversity, qualities and characteristics also attributed to Fort Hays State University.In a FutureU podcast (May 30, 2023), co-hosts Jeff Selingo and Michael Horn discuss how athletes make great employees: known for their deep work ethic, executive function skills, desire to do well and win, and a sense of fairness and competition.In a LinkedIn post, Chris Valletta cites a study published by Atlantic indicating that athletes earn 5% to 15% more than their non-athlete peers. He also quotes a Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies study that athletes are more self-confident and possess better leadership skills than students who opt for other extra-curricular activities.Vallenta identifies reasons why one should hire an athlete. First, they are passionate about their work. Being an athlete is indicative of the drive for which employers are searching. He also specifies that for the same reason, employers also prefer musicians, writers, and anyone who spends a lot of time mastering a skill. Also on Chris’ list are characteristics such as being detail-oriented, goal-oriented, emotionally strong, developing exceptional time management skills, leadership skills, and being a good team player.These are among the reasons Fort Hays State continues to make a continued investment in college athletics. I am grateful for our many philanthropic donors who also invest in our athletic programs, driving our mission while enhancing the athlete experience through scholarships, equipment, and facilities that make the athletes’ efforts worthwhile.Our coaches and staff are critical to the athletic student success strategy and understand their central role in developing the character and skill set required to create engaged citizen leaders. I am grateful for the hearts and focus of our athletics staff.Our emphasis on student success is part of our strategic plan and critical to our promise of driving access and affordability. We have many strategies to drive student success from scholarships, targeted first-generation college student programs, comprehensive student and academic support services, and several best practices, including care teams, an award-winning orientation program (40 Days at the Fort), learning communities, professional advising, and numerous student engagement practices in and out of the classroom.Ultimately, how we measure our progress on student success is through measures of persistence (do students stay in college) and graduation rates. Similar to studies indicating that athletes often outperform non-athletes on the job, the success rates of our college athletes (remaining in college and graduating) are consistently higher than the overall college student population. In our most recent NCAA report, the graduation of our student-athletes was 7% higher than our overall student body.This college athlete success reflects that this past academic year, ten Tiger athletes earned Academic All-American honors (Heart of a Tiger July 20, 2023 column). Ten Academic All-Americans was the most in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and by far the most in FHSU’s history. The Academic All-America program recognizes student-athletes who excel in the classroom and athletic competition. To qualify for consideration, a student-athlete must be a starter or important reserve with at least a 3.30 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale). Fort Hays State has produced 68 Academic All-America selections since our first selection in 1975.Investing in college athletics has several benefits, including increased visibility and brand recognition that drive student enrollment and community and alumni engagement. Most importantly, our athletics program effectively increases student graduation rates, develops outstanding employees and entrepreneurs, enhances generational wealth, and is core to our mission to create engaged citizen leaders.Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

Heart of A Tiger: Student-athlete experience fuels success in college, life

<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/2023/9/1694719751718.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

FHSU is hiring multiple Skilled Trades Technician positions in the Energy Division

Training available for the right responsible and reliable individual(s)

These positions perform operation, maintenance and repair of industrial equipment as in boilers, generators, pumps and valves. Work involves all aspects of boiler operation and steam distribution to include general maintenance and repair of related Energy Division/Power Plant equipment. Follow written and oral procedures, reading and recording gauges and water testing.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency. One year of experience in a skilled craft area. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the university.

Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit resume and names and contact information for three professional references. Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.

Find more details and application instructions at: https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578077978142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State UniversityFHSU is hiring multiple Skilled Trades Technician positions in the Energy DivisionTraining available for the right responsible and reliable individual(s)These positions perform operation, maintenance and repair of industrial equipment as in boilers, generators, pumps and valves. Work involves all aspects of boiler operation and steam distribution to include general maintenance and repair of related Energy Division/Power Plant equipment. Follow written and oral procedures, reading and recording gauges and water testing.Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency. One year of experience in a skilled craft area. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the university.Many perks and excellent benefits!Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit resume and names and contact information for three professional references. Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.Find more details and application instructions at: https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS

🎙 UPDATE: Stop Trafficking Project speaker in Hays Sunday; kids vulnerable online, even in ultra-rural Kansas 

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">Hays Chamber </a>president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discusses nominations for the annual chamber award banquet with Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber looks ahead to annual awards banquet" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2unkf-14a709e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">Hays Chamber </a>president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discusses nominations for the annual chamber award banquet with Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber looks ahead to annual awards banquet

Thunder on the Plains Car Show participant barbecue will happen on Friday rain or shine. The event is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. at Municipal Park on south Main Street.

In the case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Hays Armory next door, which is at 200 Main St.

If there is inclement weather, keep your classic vehicle in the garage, but come on down.

The car show will be on Saturday.&nbsp;Registration Saturday morning begins at 8 a.m. and continues through 11 a.m. The awards ceremony will be at 2 p.m.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3a79ee8c-5670-4c15-a2d4-a2ed0e7fdd6f">SEE RELATED STORY: Thunder on the Plains returns to Municipal Park in Sept.</a>

SubmittedThunder on the Plains Car Show participant barbecue will happen on Friday rain or shine. The event is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. at Municipal Park on south Main Street.In the case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Hays Armory next door, which is at 200 Main St.If there is inclement weather, keep your classic vehicle in the garage, but come on down.The car show will be on Saturday.&nbsp;Registration Saturday morning begins at 8 a.m. and continues through 11 a.m. The awards ceremony will be at 2 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3a79ee8c-5670-4c15-a2d4-a2ed0e7fdd6f">SEE RELATED STORY: Thunder on the Plains returns to Municipal Park in Sept.</a>

Thunder on the Plains barbecue a go rain or shine

Sternberg Museum of Natural History has announced the addition of a new zoology collections manager effective Aug. 30.

Dr. Jackson Roberts moved to Hays with his family from Baton Rouge, where he recently finished his PHD at Louisiana State University.

“We are excited for Jackson to join us because he fits into the culture and personalities we have at the museum,” said Sternberg Director Reese Barrick. “It’s not every day that you find somebody who’s excited that our museum has rattlesnakes. We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Hays.”

Barrick said Roberts will assume the position left vacant after the untimely death of Curtis Schmidt, who held the position from 2011-2022.

Roberts will oversee the care and management of Sternberg’s extensive and growing zoological collections, which include: Herpetology (16,000+ specimens), Mammalogy (45,000+ specimens plus 2 holotypes), Ichthyology (750,000 specimens), Ornithology (4,500 specimens), Mussels (5,000+) and Entomology (100,000+ insects). Collections consist of fluid-preserved specimens, skins, dry skeletons, histological, and frozen tissues. The collections focus on the Great Plains of the U.S.

“My family and I are beyond excited to join the Sternberg family,” Roberts said. “As Sternberg’s new zoology collections manager, I am incredibly lucky to continue the legacy for which the Sternberg’s live and research collections are known, as well as expand the volume and access to the collections to connect the community with the amazing biodiversity of the Great Plains.”

Roberts was born and raised in Nashville. His parents raised him alongside his sister and brother in a supportive home that always fostered his love for the outdoors. His time spent outdoors was usually focused on fishing or hunting with his family.

“Regardless of whether he was on the water or in the woods, I have always been interested in the animals around me and how to tell them apart,” Roberts said.

His undergraduate research with Dr. Michael Collins at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., involved surveying Southeastern birds for avian malaria. His master’s at Auburn University in Auburn, Ala., with Dr. Ash Bullard focused on trematode parasites of freshwater turtles.

“After many different locations and a couple of degrees, I realized I was lucky (or cursed) to spend my career as a herpetologist,” he said.

During his PhD, Roberts focused on the systematics and taxonomy of New Guinean snakes, specifically two different groups: the New Guinea Worm-eating Snakes (Elapidae: Toxicocalamus) and the New Guinea Keelbacks (Natricidae: Tropidonophis).

At LSU, he contributed to the LSUMNS through outreach, research, and continued growth of the collection. He has contributed to domestic collecting, as well as a life-changing eight-week expedition in Papua New Guinea to the Ghost Mountain of Mt. Obree.

“But my greatest adventure I began as a PhD student was the family my wife Meg and I started in Baton Rouge: two wonderful and snake-loving boys, Emmett Darwin and Milo Wallace,” Roberts said

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694633629616.jpeg" alt="Jackson Roberts" />
 <figcaption>Jackson Roberts</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseSternberg Museum of Natural History has announced the addition of a new zoology collections manager effective Aug. 30.Dr. Jackson Roberts moved to Hays with his family from Baton Rouge, where he recently finished his PHD at Louisiana State University.“We are excited for Jackson to join us because he fits into the culture and personalities we have at the museum,” said Sternberg Director Reese Barrick. “It’s not every day that you find somebody who’s excited that our museum has rattlesnakes. We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Hays.”Barrick said Roberts will assume the position left vacant after the untimely death of Curtis Schmidt, who held the position from 2011-2022.Roberts will oversee the care and management of Sternberg’s extensive and growing zoological collections, which include: Herpetology (16,000+ specimens), Mammalogy (45,000+ specimens plus 2 holotypes), Ichthyology (750,000 specimens), Ornithology (4,500 specimens), Mussels (5,000+) and Entomology (100,000+ insects). Collections consist of fluid-preserved specimens, skins, dry skeletons, histological, and frozen tissues. The collections focus on the Great Plains of the U.S.“My family and I are beyond excited to join the Sternberg family,” Roberts said. “As Sternberg’s new zoology collections manager, I am incredibly lucky to continue the legacy for which the Sternberg’s live and research collections are known, as well as expand the volume and access to the collections to connect the community with the amazing biodiversity of the Great Plains.”Roberts was born and raised in Nashville. His parents raised him alongside his sister and brother in a supportive home that always fostered his love for the outdoors. His time spent outdoors was usually focused on fishing or hunting with his family.“Regardless of whether he was on the water or in the woods, I have always been interested in the animals around me and how to tell them apart,” Roberts said.His undergraduate research with Dr. Michael Collins at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., involved surveying Southeastern birds for avian malaria. His master’s at Auburn University in Auburn, Ala., with Dr. Ash Bullard focused on trematode parasites of freshwater turtles.“After many different locations and a couple of degrees, I realized I was lucky (or cursed) to spend my career as a herpetologist,” he said.During his PhD, Roberts focused on the systematics and taxonomy of New Guinean snakes, specifically two different groups: the New Guinea Worm-eating Snakes (Elapidae: Toxicocalamus) and the New Guinea Keelbacks (Natricidae: Tropidonophis).At LSU, he contributed to the LSUMNS through outreach, research, and continued growth of the collection. He has contributed to domestic collecting, as well as a life-changing eight-week expedition in Papua New Guinea to the Ghost Mountain of Mt. Obree.“But my greatest adventure I began as a PhD student was the family my wife Meg and I started in Baton Rouge: two wonderful and snake-loving boys, Emmett Darwin and Milo Wallace,” Roberts said

Roberts joins Sternberg Museum as zoology collections manager

The Point of Light is the highest recognition given by Thomas More Prep-Marian to honor significant individuals who have given time, talent, or resources through dedicated service to the school. Recipients of the Point of Light award show commitment to our tradition of excellence are involved in activities that bring honors to the inductee and to TMP-Marian and a heart for service.

Inductees are nominated by the TMP-Marian community and voted on by a variety of individuals representing the school administration, staff, alumni, religious, and community for a diversified selection committee.

TMP-Marian is honored to announce the following 2023 Point of Light inductees:

We honor Amy J. Staab as a Point of Light for her commitment to Thomas More Prep-Marian and the Ellis County community. Amy is a 1984 graduate of TMP-MHS, and earned her bachelor’s of science degrees in mathematics and political science with a minor in sociology from Regis College in 1988 and earned her juris doctor degree from Oklahoma City University Law School in 1993. 

Her parents are Gertie and the late Don C. Staab. Her grandfather Aloysius R. Staab was a 1925 graduate of St. Joseph Military Academy. 

Amy has been employed in the legal profession since 1986, beginning as a summer job at her father’s law firm, then for a stint at a Denver law firm, then returning full time for her father from 1993 to 2019.

 She has served on the Catholic Charities Advisory Board and currently serves as a board member of the Ellis Credit Union, Hays Community Theatre, Inc and First Care Clinic.

 She has been “in the pit” for TMP-MHS fall musicals since 2012, keyboardist for TMP-MHS Pop Singers 2010. She is a member of the Daughters of Isabella, a parishioner, guitarist and accompanist at St. Mary’s in Ellis. She has been active in Catholic music ministry since her freshman year in high school and continues to be actively involved as an accompanist for various Ellis County Catholic churches. Many times Amy will be found in church at the piano playing multiple Masses on a given weekend. 

We extend a huge thank you to Amy and her years of dedicated and continued commitment to the Ellis County community, Catholic schools and parishes.

We honor Rod and Donna Ruder for their amazing support of TMP-M as well as the church and community. 

Rodney (Rod) Ruder was born on the 26 of March, 1951 to Tony and Armella Denning Ruder. He attended local grade schools, SJMA, graduating in 1969 and FHSU in 1974. Rod served on the TMP-M Alumni Board, SBC and as a host for the ACE Auction. Rod had a great love for baseball. He played for SJMA and FHSU. He was an ardent supporter for all levels of baseball in the Hays community. Rod passed away at age 60 o November 20, 2021.&nbsp;

His wife Donna was born on November 26, 1952 to Emmet and Lorene Morris in Russell, Kansas. She graduated from high school in 1970 and has degrees in business and education from FHSU. She married Rod Ruder on June 16, 1973 and they had three children, Cori, Erin and Burke all TMP-M graduates. 

Donna served as a volunteer in the alumni office, as a member of the baseball-softball field complex committee and the SBC. She was an ACE volunteer and active donor. 

She and her husband were active of IHM Catholic Church. They received the TMP-M Alumni Service Award in 2000 and the Jack Schramm Spirit Award in 2021. Their great love and care of others brings them this Point of Light honor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694634056089.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MThe Point of Light is the highest recognition given by Thomas More Prep-Marian to honor significant individuals who have given time, talent, or resources through dedicated service to the school. Recipients of the Point of Light award show commitment to our tradition of excellence are involved in activities that bring honors to the inductee and to TMP-Marian and a heart for service.Inductees are nominated by the TMP-Marian community and voted on by a variety of individuals representing the school administration, staff, alumni, religious, and community for a diversified selection committee.TMP-Marian is honored to announce the following 2023 Point of Light inductees:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694634307863.png" alt="Amy J. Staab (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Amy J. Staab (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>We honor Amy J. Staab as a Point of Light for her commitment to Thomas More Prep-Marian and the Ellis County community. Amy is a 1984 graduate of TMP-MHS, and earned her bachelor’s of science degrees in mathematics and political science with a minor in sociology from Regis College in 1988 and earned her juris doctor degree from Oklahoma City University Law School in 1993. Her parents are Gertie and the late Don C. Staab. Her grandfather Aloysius R. Staab was a 1925 graduate of St. Joseph Military Academy. Amy has been employed in the legal profession since 1986, beginning as a summer job at her father’s law firm, then for a stint at a Denver law firm, then returning full time for her father from 1993 to 2019. She has served on the Catholic Charities Advisory Board and currently serves as a board member of the Ellis Credit Union, Hays Community Theatre, Inc and First Care Clinic. She has been “in the pit” for TMP-MHS fall musicals since 2012, keyboardist for TMP-MHS Pop Singers 2010. She is a member of the Daughters of Isabella, a parishioner, guitarist and accompanist at St. Mary’s in Ellis. She has been active in Catholic music ministry since her freshman year in high school and continues to be actively involved as an accompanist for various Ellis County Catholic churches. Many times Amy will be found in church at the piano playing multiple Masses on a given weekend. We extend a huge thank you to Amy and her years of dedicated and continued commitment to the Ellis County community, Catholic schools and parishes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694634403150.png" alt="Rod and Donna Ruder (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Rod and Donna Ruder (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>We honor Rod and Donna Ruder for their amazing support of TMP-M as well as the church and community. Rodney (Rod) Ruder was born on the 26 of March, 1951 to Tony and Armella Denning Ruder. He attended local grade schools, SJMA, graduating in 1969 and FHSU in 1974. Rod served on the TMP-M Alumni Board, SBC and as a host for the ACE Auction. Rod had a great love for baseball. He played for SJMA and FHSU. He was an ardent supporter for all levels of baseball in the Hays community. Rod passed away at age 60 o November 20, 2021.&nbsp;His wife Donna was born on November 26, 1952 to Emmet and Lorene Morris in Russell, Kansas. She graduated from high school in 1970 and has degrees in business and education from FHSU. She married Rod Ruder on June 16, 1973 and they had three children, Cori, Erin and Burke all TMP-M graduates. Donna served as a volunteer in the alumni office, as a member of the baseball-softball field complex committee and the SBC. She was an ACE volunteer and active donor. She and her husband were active of IHM Catholic Church. They received the TMP-M Alumni Service Award in 2000 and the Jack Schramm Spirit Award in 2021. Their great love and care of others brings them this Point of Light honor.