TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced $1.5 million will be available for a fourth round of Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants to revitalize dilapidated and underutilized downtown buildings in small communities across the state. HEAL grants help close financial gaps for communities striving to make their downtown districts more economically vibrant.

Since the HEAL grant program was launched in 2021, more than $3.5 million has been awarded to fund 63 projects in 48 counties throughout Kansas.

Enhancements have been made for HEAL 4.0 that are designed to set up applicants for even greater success, including a longer application period and a maximum award of $100,000. &nbsp;Additionally, formal bids will be required this round from licensed contractors at the time of application submission. &nbsp;

“HEAL 4.0 will offer even more support and funding for communities working to bring vacant and underutilized buildings back to productive use,” Toland said. “We want as many communities as possible across the state to benefit from this successful program that breathes new life into downtown districts.”

HEAL grants help bring downtown buildings back into productive use as spaces for:

•New or expanding businesses •Housing •Arts and culture •Civic engagement •Childcare •Entrepreneurship

Submitted projects must show potential to be economic drivers in that community and also demonstrate that the space will be occupied by the end of the project. Proof of 1:1 matching funds from the building owner will be required at the time of application.

Communities that received a HEAL grant in the first round (awarded spring/summer 2022) are now eligible to apply again. Communities that received HEAL grants in either fall 2022 or spring 2023 are not eligible to apply this round.

The application window opens August 14 and closes November 10 with award notifications in mid-December.

A virtual webinar about the specifics of the program is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 18. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be provided after registration. 

Organizations and building owners interested in applying should register and attend the webinar. To register, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vdXMwMndlYi56b29tLnVzL3dlYmluYXIvcmVnaXN0ZXIvV05fMmpYRGpmWEhUS2F4R2Noc3prbENsZyMvcmVnaXN0cmF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgxMC44MDk1MjA1MSJ9.6mEK6NPGtcqCpEoUL4CxLdso48ZV3h4uAtwulqisvH0/s/1303179659/br/224061329241-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Additional information about HEAL, the webinar and the online application can be accessed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9jb21tdW5pdHktZGV2ZWxvcG1lbnQvaGVhbC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODEwLjgwOTUyMDUxIn0.E4c5eyGVM3TP6HDMwEcnWr2O936IkVaWCaEpAlh6ba8/s/1303179659/br/224061329241-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691699200016.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Gov. KellyTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced $1.5 million will be available for a fourth round of Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants to revitalize dilapidated and underutilized downtown buildings in small communities across the state. HEAL grants help close financial gaps for communities striving to make their downtown districts more economically vibrant.Since the HEAL grant program was launched in 2021, more than $3.5 million has been awarded to fund 63 projects in 48 counties throughout Kansas.Enhancements have been made for HEAL 4.0 that are designed to set up applicants for even greater success, including a longer application period and a maximum award of $100,000. &nbsp;Additionally, formal bids will be required this round from licensed contractors at the time of application submission. &nbsp;“HEAL 4.0 will offer even more support and funding for communities working to bring vacant and underutilized buildings back to productive use,” Toland said. “We want as many communities as possible across the state to benefit from this successful program that breathes new life into downtown districts.”HEAL grants help bring downtown buildings back into productive use as spaces for:•New or expanding businesses •Housing •Arts and culture •Civic engagement •Childcare •EntrepreneurshipSubmitted projects must show potential to be economic drivers in that community and also demonstrate that the space will be occupied by the end of the project. Proof of 1:1 matching funds from the building owner will be required at the time of application.Communities that received a HEAL grant in the first round (awarded spring/summer 2022) are now eligible to apply again. Communities that received HEAL grants in either fall 2022 or spring 2023 are not eligible to apply this round.The application window opens August 14 and closes November 10 with award notifications in mid-December.A virtual webinar about the specifics of the program is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 18. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be provided after registration. Organizations and building owners interested in applying should register and attend the webinar. To register, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vdXMwMndlYi56b29tLnVzL3dlYmluYXIvcmVnaXN0ZXIvV05fMmpYRGpmWEhUS2F4R2Noc3prbENsZyMvcmVnaXN0cmF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgxMC44MDk1MjA1MSJ9.6mEK6NPGtcqCpEoUL4CxLdso48ZV3h4uAtwulqisvH0/s/1303179659/br/224061329241-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;Additional information about HEAL, the webinar and the online application can be accessed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9jb21tdW5pdHktZGV2ZWxvcG1lbnQvaGVhbC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODEwLjgwOTUyMDUxIn0.E4c5eyGVM3TP6HDMwEcnWr2O936IkVaWCaEpAlh6ba8/s/1303179659/br/224061329241-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

More state HEAL grants available to revitalize dilapidated downtown buildings

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

While the masses are swooning over the "Barbie" movie, a master's of art student at Fort Hays State University has a different take on women in society and Barbie as an icon.

One of the most popular pieces in Kailin Nielsen's master's of fine arts exhibition, "Forbidden Female," on display now through Aug. 18 at the Moss Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus, is titled "Ideal Cannibalism."

It depicts a young woman biting the head off of a Barbie doll.

Nielsen said she has always been interested in women and women's culture as a subject for her artwork. The Barbie piece was painted in 2021, long before the movie hype.

"Barbie, when I was young, was this figure that we all aspired to be...having these beautiful body types and perfect proportions. That was stereotypical of what a woman should aspire to be," she said.

"As I have aged, my body doesn't look like that, and a lot of other females' bodies don't look like that. A lot of times, there's a lot of negativity around the female body. That creates a lot of body dysmorphia. I thought of Barbie as an example of how that shouldn't be the social standard."

She said the painting exhibits anger against society's female standards.

"I'm very interested in how the social media climate reacts to things and how our society reacts to things," she said," whether it's women's bodies, women's sexuality, what we are consuming as in food or what we are buying and marketing tactics."

Nielsen was in the middle of her master's work when Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022.

"I saw people reacting positively and negatively to women's bodies," she said. "I wouldn't say I was with one or the other, but it was very interesting to see how society reacts to women's bodies and to see how society reacts to women as a whole."

Nielsen repeatedly uses images of fruit and food in her artwork, perhaps most prominently in her piece, "Debauchery."

"I wanted to talk about women indulging in their sexuality, what they are buying, and everything else and not feel gluttonous about it," she said. "But at the same time, I wanted to talk about social media and how they are so obsessive."

She said she believes women's indulgence and sexuality are often perceived as taboo.

"People are very turned off by seeing female breasts or female anatomy at all," Nielsen said. "I view that compared to men wearing a swimsuit without a shirt. I wonder how society could be so corrupted to think that a woman's body is something that has to be covered."

In addition to paintings and mixed media, Nielsen's exhibit also includes a video of a performance art piece.

She smeared chocolate over a large mirror and incorporated into the chocolate symbols of feminity, including makeup, beauty products, extensions and jewelry.

She slowly dug the chocolate and items away to show her reflection.

"Although we buy into all of these things that we think or society tells us are going to make us prettier and more attractive to the male gaze or the female gaze," she said, "I wanted to show that no matter what, under all that sickening facade, it's just us still."

Nielsen graduated in May. She will be the lead drawing and painting professor at Doane University in Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691433483940.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University student Kailin Nielsen's "Ideal Cannablism" is part of her MFA exhibit on display now at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University student Kailin Nielsen's "Ideal Cannablism" is part of her MFA exhibit on display now at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWhile the masses are swooning over the "Barbie" movie, a master's of art student at Fort Hays State University has a different take on women in society and Barbie as an icon.One of the most popular pieces in Kailin Nielsen's master's of fine arts exhibition, "Forbidden Female," on display now through Aug. 18 at the Moss Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus, is titled "Ideal Cannibalism."It depicts a young woman biting the head off of a Barbie doll.Nielsen said she has always been interested in women and women's culture as a subject for her artwork. The Barbie piece was painted in 2021, long before the movie hype."Barbie, when I was young, was this figure that we all aspired to be...having these beautiful body types and perfect proportions. That was stereotypical of what a woman should aspire to be," she said."As I have aged, my body doesn't look like that, and a lot of other females' bodies don't look like that. A lot of times, there's a lot of negativity around the female body. That creates a lot of body dysmorphia. I thought of Barbie as an example of how that shouldn't be the social standard."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691433801940.jpeg" alt="Kailin Nielsen with her painting "Cream" during the opening reception for her MFA exhibition, "Forbidden Female." Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kailin Nielsen with her painting "Cream" during the opening reception for her MFA exhibition, "Forbidden Female." Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>She said the painting exhibits anger against society's female standards."I'm very interested in how the social media climate reacts to things and how our society reacts to things," she said," whether it's women's bodies, women's sexuality, what we are consuming as in food or what we are buying and marketing tactics."Nielsen was in the middle of her master's work when Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022."I saw people reacting positively and negatively to women's bodies," she said. "I wouldn't say I was with one or the other, but it was very interesting to see how society reacts to women's bodies and to see how society reacts to women as a whole."Nielsen repeatedly uses images of fruit and food in her artwork, perhaps most prominently in her piece, "Debauchery."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691434087247.jpeg" alt="Nielsen explores female indulgence with images of food in several of her pieces including this painting titled "Debauchery." Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Nielsen explores female indulgence with images of food in several of her pieces including this painting titled "Debauchery." Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"I wanted to talk about women indulging in their sexuality, what they are buying, and everything else and not feel gluttonous about it," she said. "But at the same time, I wanted to talk about social media and how they are so obsessive."She said she believes women's indulgence and sexuality are often perceived as taboo."People are very turned off by seeing female breasts or female anatomy at all," Nielsen said. "I view that compared to men wearing a swimsuit without a shirt. I wonder how society could be so corrupted to think that a woman's body is something that has to be covered."In addition to paintings and mixed media, Nielsen's exhibit also includes a video of a performance art piece.She smeared chocolate over a large mirror and incorporated into the chocolate symbols of feminity, including makeup, beauty products, extensions and jewelry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691434262933.jpeg" alt="Nielsen also explores the taboo of the female body in her exhibit "Forbidden Female," which will be on display at the Moss-Thorns through Aug. 18. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Nielsen also explores the taboo of the female body in her exhibit "Forbidden Female," which will be on display at the Moss-Thorns through Aug. 18. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>She slowly dug the chocolate and items away to show her reflection."Although we buy into all of these things that we think or society tells us are going to make us prettier and more attractive to the male gaze or the female gaze," she said, "I wanted to show that no matter what, under all that sickening facade, it's just us still."Nielsen graduated in May. She will be the lead drawing and painting professor at Doane University in Nebraska.

FHSU art student presents alternative view on Barbie, women in American culture

WASHINGTON - Veterans and survivors who apply (or submit their&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnZhLmdvdi9yZXNvdXJjZXMveW91ci1pbnRlbnQtdG8tZmlsZS1hLXZhLWNsYWltLz91dG1fc291cmNlPW1pZGRsZSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1WZXRSZXNvdXJjZXMmdXRtX2lkPTEwQVVHMjAyMyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTAuODA5NDk2OTEifQ.MPi1pvBoNtFZsNm3O_BRSIOAPV4NWhkCGipBDmZt2qk/s/2999847134/br/224055067070-l" target="_blank">intent to file</a>) for PACT Act benefits by&nbsp;11:59 p.m. ET on August 14, 2023&nbsp;will be eligible to have their benefits backdated to August 10, 2022 – the day that President Biden signed the PACT Act into law. T

This is an extension from the original deadline of August 9, 2023.

We encourage all veterans and their survivors to apply – or submit their<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnZhLmdvdi9yZXNvdXJjZXMveW91ci1pbnRlbnQtdG8tZmlsZS1hLXZhLWNsYWltLz91dG1fc291cmNlPW1pZGRsZSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1WZXRSZXNvdXJjZXMmdXRtX2lkPTEwQVVHMjAyMyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTAuODA5NDk2OTEifQ.0VUirXgqoe6tC9nYdexcLWpnTzfkxRvOIl8BMyLVmzo/s/2999847134/br/224055067070-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;intent to file</a>&nbsp;– for PACT Act benefits now by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnZhLmdvdi9yZXNvdXJjZXMvdGhlLXBhY3QtYWN0LWFuZC15b3VyLXZhLWJlbmVmaXRzLz91dG1fc291cmNlPW1pZGRsZSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1WZXRSZXNvdXJjZXMmdXRtX2lkPTEwQVVHMjAyMyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTAuODA5NDk2OTEifQ.UEt6NoF9GQRGTUUn-3a3BpoQZih62ZzvGx3Xu1O0U7U/s/2999847134/br/224055067070-l" target="_blank">VA.gov/PACT</a>.

Veterans and survivors have submitted 843,448 PACT Act-specific disability claims since August 10, 2022. 

Don't miss out, apply by Monday to be eligible for maximum backpay.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669388430004.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Veterans AdministrationWASHINGTON - Veterans and survivors who apply (or submit their&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnZhLmdvdi9yZXNvdXJjZXMveW91ci1pbnRlbnQtdG8tZmlsZS1hLXZhLWNsYWltLz91dG1fc291cmNlPW1pZGRsZSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1WZXRSZXNvdXJjZXMmdXRtX2lkPTEwQVVHMjAyMyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTAuODA5NDk2OTEifQ.MPi1pvBoNtFZsNm3O_BRSIOAPV4NWhkCGipBDmZt2qk/s/2999847134/br/224055067070-l" target="_blank">intent to file</a>) for PACT Act benefits by&nbsp;11:59 p.m. ET on August 14, 2023&nbsp;will be eligible to have their benefits backdated to August 10, 2022 – the day that President Biden signed the PACT Act into law. TThis is an extension from the original deadline of August 9, 2023. We encourage all veterans and their survivors to apply – or submit their<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnZhLmdvdi9yZXNvdXJjZXMveW91ci1pbnRlbnQtdG8tZmlsZS1hLXZhLWNsYWltLz91dG1fc291cmNlPW1pZGRsZSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1WZXRSZXNvdXJjZXMmdXRtX2lkPTEwQVVHMjAyMyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTAuODA5NDk2OTEifQ.0VUirXgqoe6tC9nYdexcLWpnTzfkxRvOIl8BMyLVmzo/s/2999847134/br/224055067070-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;intent to file</a>&nbsp;– for PACT Act benefits now by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnZhLmdvdi9yZXNvdXJjZXMvdGhlLXBhY3QtYWN0LWFuZC15b3VyLXZhLWJlbmVmaXRzLz91dG1fc291cmNlPW1pZGRsZSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1WZXRSZXNvdXJjZXMmdXRtX2lkPTEwQVVHMjAyMyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTAuODA5NDk2OTEifQ.UEt6NoF9GQRGTUUn-3a3BpoQZih62ZzvGx3Xu1O0U7U/s/2999847134/br/224055067070-l" target="_blank">VA.gov/PACT</a>.Veterans and survivors have submitted 843,448 PACT Act-specific disability claims since August 10, 2022. Don't miss out, apply by Monday to be eligible for maximum backpay.

VA extends deadline through Monday for Veterans and survivors to apply for PACT Act benefits backdated to August 10, 2022

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced seven appointments and nine reappointments to the following state boards and commissions.

Information Technology Executive Council Purpose: To provide direction and coordination for the application of the state’s information technology resources.

Board of Examiners in Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments Purpose: To regulate the licensing of examiners and market of hearing aids.

Kansas State Historic Sites Board of Review Purpose: To review and recommend nominations to the National Register of Historic Places and the Register of Historic Kansas Places, and award preservation planning and rehabilitation grants.

Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns Purpose: To provide policy recommendations to the State of Kansas on changes to laws, regulations and programs that affect people with disabilities.

Kansas Sports Hall of Fame Board of Trustees Purpose:&nbsp;To provide oversight to the Hall of Fame: ideas for awareness, education, needed legislation and fundraising.

Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Developmental Services Purpose: To solicit information and opinions from concerned agencies, groups, and individuals on proposed policies and recommendations for the delivery of health, education, and social services for young children from birth through age five with or at risk for disabling conditions and for their families.

Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission Purpose: To conserve and enhance Kansas’ wildlife; provide public with opportunities for use and appreciation of Kansas’ natural resources.

Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities Purpose: To advocate for systems change to increase productivity, independence, integration, and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in Kansas communities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691768666508.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Gov. KellyTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced seven appointments and nine reappointments to the following state boards and commissions.Information Technology Executive Council Purpose: To provide direction and coordination for the application of the state’s information technology resources.<ul>
 <li>John Berghuis, Salina</li>
 </ul> Board of Examiners in Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments Purpose: To regulate the licensing of examiners and market of hearing aids.<ul>
 <li>Jeanette Graue, Parsons</li>
 </ul> Kansas State Historic Sites Board of Review Purpose: To review and recommend nominations to the National Register of Historic Places and the Register of Historic Kansas Places, and award preservation planning and rehabilitation grants.<ul>
 <li>Laura Murphy, Topeka</li>
 </ul> Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns Purpose: To provide policy recommendations to the State of Kansas on changes to laws, regulations and programs that affect people with disabilities.<ul>
 <li>Stephen Miller, Parsons (reappointment)</li><li>Rob Egan, Wichita (reappointment)</li><li>Brian Ellefson, Overland Park (reappointment)</li><li>Claire Reagan, Olathe (reappointment)</li><li>Shanti Ramcharan, Topeka (reappointment)</li><li>Ranita Wilks, Lawrence (reappointment)</li>
 </ul> Kansas Sports Hall of Fame Board of Trustees Purpose:&nbsp;To provide oversight to the Hall of Fame: ideas for awareness, education, needed legislation and fundraising.<ul>
 <li>Taylor Braet, Manhattan</li>
 </ul> Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Developmental Services Purpose: To solicit information and opinions from concerned agencies, groups, and individuals on proposed policies and recommendations for the delivery of health, education, and social services for young children from birth through age five with or at risk for disabling conditions and for their families.<ul>
 <li>Marites Altuna, Kansas City</li><li>Courtney Hochman, Manhattan</li>
 </ul> Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission Purpose: To conserve and enhance Kansas’ wildlife; provide public with opportunities for use and appreciation of Kansas’ natural resources.<ul>
 <li>Warren Gfeller, Russell (reappointment)</li><li>Emerick Cross, Kansas City (reappointment)</li><li>Lauren Queal-Sill, Hutchinson (reappointment)</li>
 </ul> Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities Purpose: To advocate for systems change to increase productivity, independence, integration, and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in Kansas communities.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Stacy Crow, Goodland</li>
 </ul>

Goodland resident appointed to Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities

<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/2023/8/1691767963353.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

To schedule a session, call the Eagle Radio office at (785) 301-2211.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691419836326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To schedule a session, call the Eagle Radio office at (785) 301-2211.

Eagle Radio plans free marketing workshop

SMITH COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Friday in Smith County.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Ford F150 driven by Randall Gass, 86, Esbon, pulled into a parking stall at the Nex-Tech building, 705 F Street in Smith Center. 

The driver pressed on the accelerator instead of the brake pedal. The pickup hit the the front of the building.

EMS transported Gass and a passenger Ernest&nbsp;Childers, 63, Esbon, to the Smith County Hospital. Childers had no apparent injuries. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

SMITH COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Friday in Smith County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Ford F150 driven by Randall Gass, 86, Esbon, pulled into a parking stall at the Nex-Tech building, 705 F Street in Smith Center. The driver pressed on the accelerator instead of the brake pedal. The pickup hit the the front of the building.EMS transported Gass and a passenger Ernest&nbsp;Childers, 63, Esbon, to the Smith County Hospital. Childers had no apparent injuries. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after pickup crash into building

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with WNBA player Lauren Cox.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-sHzITEq9iQ" 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 WNBA player Lauren Cox.

🎤 Forward Ever: WNBA player Lauren Cox

VICTORIA—Area residents are set to gather Friday for the
40th annual Herzogfest.

The two-day event will feature traditional festivities, along
with musical performances, a 5K run/walk, a parade, market and car show.

Food vendors are set to open at 11 a.m., with a keg tapping
at noon, featuring The Zog, a brew made for the event by Defiance Brewing Co.

“It’s a German pilsner beer that he crafted especially for
the Herzogfest, and then we worked with them and came up with the name of the
Zog,” said Jennifer Pfeifer, Herzogfest vice president. “Our nickname is kind
of like Zog, and so, that fit for the beer.”

“And then followed by that at 1 p.m., we'll have some Beer
Olympics throughout the afternoon,” said Brenton Hoffman, Herzogfest president.
“Horseshoes will start at 6. And free live music by Austin Dixon will come on at
7 p.m. The 50/50 raffle winner is between that and our headliner, The Lowdown
Drifters, at 9 p.m.

Saturday’s events begin with the 5K run/walk at 7:30 a.m.

“After that, at 9 a.m. we'll be bringing back our parade,” Pfeifer
said. 

No registration for the parade is required.

“Just show up to be part of it,” Pfeifer said. 

The Heritage Market will also start at 9 a.m. on the
festival grounds, and at 10 a.m., the Herzog Hot Rod Car, Truck and Tractor Show
will begin.

Other events Saturday include a cornhole tournament at 10 a.m.,
along with free activities for children at Kinderfest.

Valve Cover races are set for noon, and bingo at the VFW is
set for 4 p.m.

“We'll start our Polka mass, followed by our Polka dance at
5 p.m.,” Pfeifer said.

Moving into the evening, at 6 p.m., a presentation of the
color guard and national anthem will be performed, with a Stein Hoist to follow
at 6:30 p.m.

“Around seven, our first musical talent of the night will
take the stage, and that will be the Wes Cossman Band,” Pfeifer said. “We will
have another 50/50 raffle between then and at 9 p.m. The Huser Brother Band
will take the stage.

During the last 40 years, Hoffman said changes to the event
have been made, but with the notable anniversary, the Herzogfest committee is
looking to the event’s roots.

“We're trying to get back to that original tradition with
all the German food vendors and just making it as free as possible as an event,”
he said.

And while the committee directs the efforts, Pfiefer said the
community pulls together for the event.

“Lots of different community groups will be vendors for
food or help us with other things like setup and clean up,” she said. “We really
appreciate the community members stepping up to help us put on a great event
because we're just a committee of 10, folks. We really need the support.”

More help is always appreciated, Hoffman said.

Marking the 40th anniversary, special merchandise will be
available.

“We'll have shirts, we have special 40th anniversary Stein's,
buttons, a lot of a lot of various things,” Pfeifer said, “koozies, hats, a lot
of fun things you can pick up to really celebrate the 40th anniversary of the
Herzogfest.”

While the events are sure to be fun for participants young
and old, Pfiefer said the event is about bringing the community together.

“A big goal of Herzogfest is just to keep the German
heritage alive and celebrate that and keep the event free and introduce or
bring lots of people into town with various different activities for people to
participate in and enjoy,” Pfeifer said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660536302239.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostVICTORIA—Area residents are set to gather Friday for the
40th annual Herzogfest.The two-day event will feature traditional festivities, along
with musical performances, a 5K run/walk, a parade, market and car show.Food vendors are set to open at 11 a.m., with a keg tapping
at noon, featuring The Zog, a brew made for the event by Defiance Brewing Co.“It’s a German pilsner beer that he crafted especially for
the Herzogfest, and then we worked with them and came up with the name of the
Zog,” said Jennifer Pfeifer, Herzogfest vice president. “Our nickname is kind
of like Zog, and so, that fit for the beer.”<div><iframe title="40th annual Herzogfest kicks off Friday" 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=eenur-1479906-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>“And then followed by that at 1 p.m., we'll have some Beer
Olympics throughout the afternoon,” said Brenton Hoffman, Herzogfest president.
“Horseshoes will start at 6. And free live music by Austin Dixon will come on at
7 p.m. The 50/50 raffle winner is between that and our headliner, The Lowdown
Drifters, at 9 p.m.Saturday’s events begin with the 5K run/walk at 7:30 a.m.“After that, at 9 a.m. we'll be bringing back our parade,” Pfeifer
said. No registration for the parade is required.“Just show up to be part of it,” Pfeifer said. The Heritage Market will also start at 9 a.m. on the
festival grounds, and at 10 a.m., the Herzog Hot Rod Car, Truck and Tractor Show
will begin.Other events Saturday include a cornhole tournament at 10 a.m.,
along with free activities for children at Kinderfest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691684260916.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Valve Cover races are set for noon, and bingo at the VFW is
set for 4 p.m.“We'll start our Polka mass, followed by our Polka dance at
5 p.m.,” Pfeifer said.Moving into the evening, at 6 p.m., a presentation of the
color guard and national anthem will be performed, with a Stein Hoist to follow
at 6:30 p.m.“Around seven, our first musical talent of the night will
take the stage, and that will be the Wes Cossman Band,” Pfeifer said. “We will
have another 50/50 raffle between then and at 9 p.m. The Huser Brother Band
will take the stage.During the last 40 years, Hoffman said changes to the event
have been made, but with the notable anniversary, the Herzogfest committee is
looking to the event’s roots.“We're trying to get back to that original tradition with
all the German food vendors and just making it as free as possible as an event,”
he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660537026924.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>And while the committee directs the efforts, Pfiefer said the
community pulls together for the event.“Lots of different community groups will be vendors for
food or help us with other things like setup and clean up,” she said. “We really
appreciate the community members stepping up to help us put on a great event
because we're just a committee of 10, folks. We really need the support.”More help is always appreciated, Hoffman said.Marking the 40th anniversary, special merchandise will be
available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660537006583.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“We'll have shirts, we have special 40th anniversary Stein's,
buttons, a lot of a lot of various things,” Pfeifer said, “koozies, hats, a lot
of fun things you can pick up to really celebrate the 40th anniversary of the
Herzogfest.”While the events are sure to be fun for participants young
and old, Pfiefer said the event is about bringing the community together.“A big goal of Herzogfest is just to keep the German
heritage alive and celebrate that and keep the event free and introduce or
bring lots of people into town with various different activities for people to
participate in and enjoy,” Pfeifer said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660535933653.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 'Es ist wunderbar:' 40th annual Herzogfest kicks off Friday in Victoria

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas has been selected to participate in the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices Policy Academy to Advance Youth Apprenticeship. Through the Policy Academy, Kansas will develop a strategy to expand apprenticeship opportunities to youth ages 16 and older to help them build the skills needed for the modern workforce.&nbsp;

“My administration has focused on apprenticeships as a way to build the Kansas workforce in a way that is both pro-business and pro-worker,”&nbsp; Kelly said. “Now, we are furthering our efforts by developing a plan to ensure more of our high school students graduate with the skills they need to get good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree.”&nbsp;

With Kansas’ unemployment rate at 2.8% and a surge in economic development activity that continues creating new jobs, the state is pursuing multiple avenues to build up the pipeline of prospective workers. Apprenticeship is one proven method of developing home-grown talent.&nbsp;

“Expanding the apprenticeship pipeline to include younger Kansans is a logical next step to support our historic growth,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship is developing top-tier talent that makes it easier for businesses to invest in our rural communities.”&nbsp;

Youth apprenticeship is defined as a structured, work-based learning program that supports high-quality outcomes for young people and employers include:&nbsp;

“With more than 160,000 high school students across the state, Kansas youth apprenticeship has significant potential,”&nbsp;said Shonda Anderson, director of apprenticeship and internship for the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship. “The Policy Academy will support Governor Kelly’s focus on improving employment opportunities for young adults, especially in rural parts of the state.”&nbsp;

The Policy Academy to Advance Youth Apprenticeship officially kicks off in Washington, D.C., in August when teams from six states convene for a day of learning and action-planning with state peers, federal leaders, and national subject matter experts.&nbsp;

“From my perspective, this collaboration between unions, industries and educators across multiple sectors to engage young people in Registered Apprenticeship opportunities is exciting,”&nbsp;John Nave, executive vice-president of Kansas AFL-CIO, said. “I believe this strengthens the economic prosperity in Kansas now and for generations to come.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas team includes officials from the governor’s office, Kansas Office of Apprenticeship, Kansas Apprenticeship Council, Kansas Department of Education, Wichita Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, IBEW 304, Kansas AFL-CIO,&nbsp; Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc., and other stakeholders representing education and industry.

To see a list of members of the Kansas Youth Apprenticeship Collaborative, or to find out more about Youth Apprenticeship in Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NhcHByZW50aWNlc2hpcC5vcmcveW91dGgtYXBwcmVudGljZXNoaXAvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDczMS44MDQ0NTQzMSJ9.4_Bl2XTfcvecSwwJa_9XuZWe2uIHWoXt9FpPAJTK6IY/s/1303161001/br/223476015842-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690830427182.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas has been selected to participate in the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices Policy Academy to Advance Youth Apprenticeship. Through the Policy Academy, Kansas will develop a strategy to expand apprenticeship opportunities to youth ages 16 and older to help them build the skills needed for the modern workforce.&nbsp;“My administration has focused on apprenticeships as a way to build the Kansas workforce in a way that is both pro-business and pro-worker,”&nbsp; Kelly said. “Now, we are furthering our efforts by developing a plan to ensure more of our high school students graduate with the skills they need to get good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree.”&nbsp;With Kansas’ unemployment rate at 2.8% and a surge in economic development activity that continues creating new jobs, the state is pursuing multiple avenues to build up the pipeline of prospective workers. Apprenticeship is one proven method of developing home-grown talent.&nbsp;“Expanding the apprenticeship pipeline to include younger Kansans is a logical next step to support our historic growth,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship is developing top-tier talent that makes it easier for businesses to invest in our rural communities.”&nbsp;Youth apprenticeship is defined as a structured, work-based learning program that supports high-quality outcomes for young people and employers include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Paid, on-the-job learning under the supervision of skilled employee mentors&nbsp;</li><li>Related classroom-based instruction&nbsp;</li><li>Ongoing assessment against established skills and competency standards&nbsp;</li><li>Industry-recognized credentialing and postsecondary credits&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>“With more than 160,000 high school students across the state, Kansas youth apprenticeship has significant potential,”&nbsp;said Shonda Anderson, director of apprenticeship and internship for the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship. “The Policy Academy will support Governor Kelly’s focus on improving employment opportunities for young adults, especially in rural parts of the state.”&nbsp;The Policy Academy to Advance Youth Apprenticeship officially kicks off in Washington, D.C., in August when teams from six states convene for a day of learning and action-planning with state peers, federal leaders, and national subject matter experts.&nbsp;“From my perspective, this collaboration between unions, industries and educators across multiple sectors to engage young people in Registered Apprenticeship opportunities is exciting,”&nbsp;John Nave, executive vice-president of Kansas AFL-CIO, said. “I believe this strengthens the economic prosperity in Kansas now and for generations to come.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas team includes officials from the governor’s office, Kansas Office of Apprenticeship, Kansas Apprenticeship Council, Kansas Department of Education, Wichita Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, IBEW 304, Kansas AFL-CIO,&nbsp; Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc., and other stakeholders representing education and industry. To see a list of members of the Kansas Youth Apprenticeship Collaborative, or to find out more about Youth Apprenticeship in Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NhcHByZW50aWNlc2hpcC5vcmcveW91dGgtYXBwcmVudGljZXNoaXAvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDczMS44MDQ0NTQzMSJ9.4_Bl2XTfcvecSwwJa_9XuZWe2uIHWoXt9FpPAJTK6IY/s/1303161001/br/223476015842-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

NWKS Economic Innovation Center part of state's strategy to expand apprenticeships for youths

TOPEKA- John D. Gatz, Colby, was recognized with the Professionalism Award, given to individuals who have practiced law for 10 or more years who, by his or her conduct, honesty, integrity, and courtesy, best exemplifies, represents, and encourages other lawyers to follow the highest standards of the legal profession as identified by the Kansas Bar Association Hallmarks of the Profession.

Gatz,&nbsp;practices law in Colby and is a graduate of Colby High School and Colby Community College. He earned a bachelor's degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University with high distinction and a law degree from the Washburn University School of Law.&nbsp;

He started his private practice experience in Topeka but returned to western Kansas where he has been in private practice since 1982.&nbsp;

Gatz became active with the Kansas Bar Association's Ethics and Grievance Panel and chaired it from 2001 until 2013. He has been a member of the Board of Discipline of Attorneys since 2009 and is currently its chairperson.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691423374351.png" alt="John D. Gatz (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>John D. Gatz (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Bar Association TOPEKA- John D. Gatz, Colby, was recognized with the Professionalism Award, given to individuals who have practiced law for 10 or more years who, by his or her conduct, honesty, integrity, and courtesy, best exemplifies, represents, and encourages other lawyers to follow the highest standards of the legal profession as identified by the Kansas Bar Association Hallmarks of the Profession.Gatz,&nbsp;practices law in Colby and is a graduate of Colby High School and Colby Community College. He earned a bachelor's degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University with high distinction and a law degree from the Washburn University School of Law.&nbsp;He started his private practice experience in Topeka but returned to western Kansas where he has been in private practice since 1982.&nbsp;Gatz became active with the Kansas Bar Association's Ethics and Grievance Panel and chaired it from 2001 until 2013. He has been a member of the Board of Discipline of Attorneys since 2009 and is currently its chairperson.&nbsp;

Colby attorney receives professionalism award from Kansas Bar Association

Scammers are lurking on LinkedIn and other job sites, posing as “recruiters” for well-known companies. But instead of looking to hire you, they’re really looking to take your money and personal information.

It starts with a direct message on a job search site like Indeed or LinkedIn. The “recruiter” says you have exactly the skill set they’re looking for. Next, they’ll email an official-looking invitation for a virtual interview along with a Job Briefing guide that gives you details about your job duties and job benefits. (Did that email come from a personal email, not a company account? That’s a red flag.) After the virtual interview,&nbsp;you get an official-looking offer letter, complete with the company’s name and logo.

But after they offer you the job, they’ll push for your money and personal information. You’ll get an invoice (it’s fake) for equipment like a computer&nbsp;they’ll&nbsp;order for you, but tell&nbsp;you&nbsp;to pay for — using cash, Zelle, or PayPal. They promise to reimburse you. But they won’t because it’s a scam.

Or, instead, they’ll ask for your personal information, like your driver’s license, Social Security, or bank account number, to fill out “employment paperwork.” And they want it&nbsp;before&nbsp;they’ll answer your questions about the job. But if you share it, they might steal your identity.

To spot these scams, know that&nbsp;honest employers will never ask you to pay&nbsp;upfront fees for a job or for equipment. And they&nbsp;won’t ask you to pay them using cash, Zelle or PayPal. Anyone who does is a scammer.

To avoid these scams,&nbsp;never give out personal information&nbsp;before doing some research. Contact the company directly using a phone number you know to be legitimate — not one you got from the “recruiter.” Or go to the company’s website. If you can’t confirm the job is real, it could be a scam.

The FTC has resources to help you&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money/jobs">spot job scams</a>. If you spot a scam, report it at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663853943686.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By LARISSA BUNGO FTCScammers are lurking on LinkedIn and other job sites, posing as “recruiters” for well-known companies. But instead of looking to hire you, they’re really looking to take your money and personal information.It starts with a direct message on a job search site like Indeed or LinkedIn. The “recruiter” says you have exactly the skill set they’re looking for. Next, they’ll email an official-looking invitation for a virtual interview along with a Job Briefing guide that gives you details about your job duties and job benefits. (Did that email come from a personal email, not a company account? That’s a red flag.) After the virtual interview,&nbsp;you get an official-looking offer letter, complete with the company’s name and logo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691505565755.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>But after they offer you the job, they’ll push for your money and personal information. You’ll get an invoice (it’s fake) for equipment like a computer&nbsp;they’ll&nbsp;order for you, but tell&nbsp;you&nbsp;to pay for — using cash, Zelle, or PayPal. They promise to reimburse you. But they won’t because it’s a scam.Or, instead, they’ll ask for your personal information, like your driver’s license, Social Security, or bank account number, to fill out “employment paperwork.” And they want it&nbsp;before&nbsp;they’ll answer your questions about the job. But if you share it, they might steal your identity.To spot these scams, know that&nbsp;honest employers will never ask you to pay&nbsp;upfront fees for a job or for equipment. And they&nbsp;won’t ask you to pay them using cash, Zelle or PayPal. Anyone who does is a scammer.To avoid these scams,&nbsp;never give out personal information&nbsp;before doing some research. Contact the company directly using a phone number you know to be legitimate — not one you got from the “recruiter.” Or go to the company’s website. If you can’t confirm the job is real, it could be a scam.The FTC has resources to help you&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money/jobs">spot job scams</a>. If you spot a scam, report it at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: Scammers impersonate well-known companies, recruit for fake jobs on LinkedIn, others

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691676926355.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>

ELI Wireline is hiring for a Wireline Repair and Maintenance Technician for their Hays or Hutchinson facility. 

The position is a hands-on, rewarding role where you will be performing wireline repair and maintenance in the oil and gas industry.

In a workshop environment, this individual has responsibility for providing "hands-on" technical support to the production and repair of equipment and tools. They will also receive field tools, disassemble them, and repair and refurbish the tool to go back to the field using blueprints, manuals and following protocols.

Three or more years of related experience in repair and maintenance is required.

Benefits include 100 percent Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by the employer, 401K, and a competitive salary.

If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601 or&nbsp;email an application to scott.case@eliwireline.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642173081488.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELI Wireline is hiring for a Wireline Repair and Maintenance Technician for their Hays or Hutchinson facility. The position is a hands-on, rewarding role where you will be performing wireline repair and maintenance in the oil and gas industry.In a workshop environment, this individual has responsibility for providing "hands-on" technical support to the production and repair of equipment and tools. They will also receive field tools, disassemble them, and repair and refurbish the tool to go back to the field using blueprints, manuals and following protocols.Three or more years of related experience in repair and maintenance is required.Benefits include 100 percent Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by the employer, 401K, and a competitive salary.If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601 or&nbsp;email an application to scott.case@eliwireline.com.

SPONSORED: ELI Wireline seeking repair and maintenance technician

Fort Hays State University will honor six outstanding alumni and friends during its upcoming Homecoming celebration September 28-30. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuhomecoming.com/">FHSUhomecoming.com</a>&nbsp;to learn more about how these award winners will be celebrated during FHSU's Homecoming.

"Selecting Homecoming candidates from Fort Hays State University's vast pool of deserving candidates challenges us each year," said FHSU Alumni Director Carolyn Tatro.

"This year's award recipients demonstrate an admirable commitment to their local communities and our university. We hope the public will join us in celebrating these amazing Tigers during Homecoming 2023," she adds.

Visit <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtO-2F0MXqVFmcr8VE1BLH-2BIoVHPbNJJSWO5VoUYI9qjzlFN4N1YFdLTWEyZfw-2BsFpnbxN2VeRpab1kCwkiPZj3T61eoKhcTbVHXb3DYWRYB3QPAtTMCEvTtgbVjSYxY0EMLg-3D-3Di_IJ_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbaObyzKjCC4VlLGFVM4d6fw5jZ1ViYrbCfvLpmPz0GC4gFti-2FmZWuC5x47nYLPjrnN-2FNy1ZV7ixuT70-2Bg2kuahjIEZNxuFMBOmX9YIEn6jhmi3mdWtwDo3PHa982z6ARzeN9NMe40-2Bn46NlWzBkbBgbxC9-2BgvzwQ0GBGSWcpYujWVFU3IJxewSmD2iJ9-2Bx8MmReUVCixPE0UtiK3ESielETZTmU0jds1p2v0D-2FwgDKTZIBJHlu32K949rGtblPHepROl-2FUQgbLWlFV4TXzQQ3ug-3D-3D" target="_blank">FHSUhomecoming.com/awards</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the award criteria by which these distinguished individuals were chosen.

Dr. Sandra “Sandy” Billinger&nbsp;’02, Roeland Park, Kansas

Sandra "Sandy" Billinger's journey to becoming a world-renowned, award-winning researcher began in 1993. During an average day working as a dental assistant, Billinger, pregnant with her first son, experienced a life-changing accident that propelled her to shift gears.&nbsp;

Now unable to fulfill her previous role's duties, Billinger came to Fort Hays State University to pursue a new career. As a single mother of two and a non-traditional student beginning her undergraduate studies at age 29, Billinger entered her studies with a full plate. However, she quickly excelled in her research after finding her home as a pre-physical therapy student in the Department of Health and Human Performance.

Dr. Greg Kandt, her advisor at FHSU, recommended that Billinger switch her focus from cardiovascular research interests to stroke research. At the time, many people believed that exercise after a stroke worsened patients' conditions; however, after learning more, Billinger made it her life purpose to dispel that misconception.

Her hard work earned the praise of faculty members, who named Billinger the 2002 Outstanding Student of the Year for the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. She was also nominated for the Torch Award, given to outstanding seniors in recognition of leadership and academic excellence.

Billinger made her next big move after graduating from FHSU when she relocated her family to Kansas City to pursue a Ph.D. at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC). Billinger earned a master's in physical therapy and a doctorate in rehabilitation science. She then began working as a faculty member in the Department of Physical Therapy. Billinger is currently a professor and vice chair of stroke translational research in the Department of Neurology at KUMC.

As a researcher, Billinger has acquired multi-million-dollar National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants, published more than 100 scientific papers in more than 15 academic publications, and has conducted one of the leading NIH-funded studies in stroke rehabilitation. In addition to her scholarly work, she instructs graduate and postdoctoral laboratory courses to help her students produce high-level medical research.

Currently, Billinger is leading several NIH-funded studies investigating the connections between cardiovascular and brain health relating to stroke recovery and Alzheimer's disease. She maintains several professional affiliations, including the American Stroke Association, American Physical Therapy Association, and the Kansas Physical Therapy Association.

Her strides in neurovascular research, instruction, and determination to help others through her work exemplify how an education from Fort Hays State can provide a lifetime of success and community enrichment.

Billinger lives in Kansas City with her family.

Dr. Judd Choate&nbsp;'93, Denver, Colorado

Hays native, Dr. Judd Choate, was destined to attend Fort Hays State University. Growing up as the son of the late Dr. Jerry Choate, a longtime director of the Sternberg Museum and a biology professor at FHSU, he attended the university from 1988-1992, majoring in political science and minoring in geography, studying with Dr. Larry Gould and Dr. Paul Phillips. Choate's path as a political science major at FHSU led to his eventual position as election director for the state of Colorado.

While at FHSU, Choate regularly contributed to The University Leader and was involved in the American Democracy Project and the Model UN. Some of his pieces for the Leader covered student life, but Choate never shied away from more controversial, national topics. Upon graduating summa cum laude from FHSU, Dr. Choate completed his master's and Ph.D. at Purdue University.

In 1997, Choate became an assistant professor of political science at Baker University and then at the University of Nebraska. In 2001, Choate was hired by the Nebraska Supreme Court to direct the Nebraska minority and justice task force, leading to the nation's first statewide report on discrimination in a state court system. That same year, Choate published a book on congressional behavior entitled "Torn and Frayed: Congressional Norms and Party Switching in an Era of Reform."

Choate then completed his Juris Doctorate at the University of Colorado in 2006, focusing on election law. Upon graduation, he clerked for the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals and the Colorado Supreme Court. After a stint at a private law firm, Choate was hired as Colorado's election director in 2009.&nbsp;

Since 2009, Colorado has become a model for election administration. Prior to his work, the state's percentage-registered-of-eligible-population was 25th in the country, and the state's overall turnout was 20th. In the 2020 presidential election, over 92% of Colorado's eligible population was registered to vote, and Colorado's turnout of 76% was the country's second highest.

Choate has served as the National Association of State Election Directors president and was president of the Electronic Registration Information Center board when it was formed in 2012. He has also earned numerous accolades in his 15 years serving as Colorado election director, most notably the U.S. Attorney's Award for leading U.S. efforts on election security in the 2020 presidential election.

Choate's career exemplifies how political science majors at Fort Hays State University can craft a life of public service and make tangible contributions to their communities by leveraging their education. Judd Choate began at FHSU as his father's son, only to become one of the country's most important election officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr. Judd Choate resides in Denver with his wife Lyn, their daughter Jacqueline and Leo, the dog. Judd's mom, Fi Choate, lives two blocks away, and his father, Dr. Jerry Choate, passed away in 2009.

Dr. Kendall Krug&nbsp;'83, Hays, Kansas

From a young age, Dr. Kendall Krug strove to serve others. A general science major who graduated cum laude from Fort Hays State University in 1983, Krug set the foundation for his nearly 40-year career as an optometrist.

Hoping to help others as a physician, Krug pursued an optometry degree at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. Through his studies, he developed an interest in assisting blind and low-vision patients, which led him to receive additional low-vision rehabilitation training at the New York Lighthouse for the Blind.

Krug returned to Hays after passing his national and state boards, earning his Kansas optometry license, and began spearheading several projects impacting area residents. Krug's expertise was critical in establishing and staffing the first hospital-based low-vision rehabilitation program in Kansas utilizing occupational therapy for visually impaired patients at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Topeka.

Following his passion for helping blind and visually impaired adult patients, Krug began helping students facing similar struggles. He worked on a team that developed KanLOVKids, a low-vision program for the Kansas School of the Blind, to help students receive vision evaluations in their home school districts. The World Health Organization recognized the program as the top vision project in North America for World Sight Day in 2014. &nbsp;

For 30 years, Krug demonstrated his dedication to vision care by providing the same level of commitment to his primary care patients at his Hays practice.

Working in his practice and with low-vision patients earned Krug numerous accolades over his decades-long career from the Kansas Optometric Association, the Kansas Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and the American Optometric Association, among others. However, accolades only scratch the surface of Krug's success and community involvement.

Krug often shares the critical pieces of his success as a lecturer for the Fort Hays State Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) students, Envision University, and the KU Area Health Education Center. Throughout the years, Krug devoted additional time to mentoring FHSU's pre-optometry students, with 20 now working as practicing optometrists or furthering their education in optometry school.

Undeniably, Krug touched lives through his advocacy, patient care, and philanthropy. He provided years of experience and betterment to the Hays area by leveraging his education at FHSU in his professional career.

He and his wife, Dr. Katrina Hess, reside in Hays. They have two children, Russell and Laura, who are both FHSU graduates.

<a></a>Chris Dinkel&nbsp;'10, Louisville, Kentucky

Chris Dinkel proves how much one can accomplish in a short amount of time with a degree from Fort Hays State University. In under a decade, Dinkel has earned his place at an esteemed New York law firm and has established himself as a high-achieving legal professional.

Beginning as an undergraduate studying theological and historical studies at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dinkel proved his dedication to his studies by graduating magna cum laude in 2008. Dinkel, a Hays native and lifelong learner at heart, heard about Fort Hays State and decided it was the perfect place to build upon the knowledge he gained as an undergraduate student.

In pursuit of a master's in history, Dinkel excelled at FHSU, earning the Outstanding Thesis accolade for his piece, "Moon Rocks and Mediations: Cooperation and Competition in Space Race Diplomacy." He held his head high as he graduated in 2010 with honors and an immaculate 4.0 GPA. The relationships he built at Fort Hays State University deepened as an adjunct instructor, a role he held for more than six years.

Although he enjoyed educating students at FHSU, Dinkel was not done learning himself. He returned to school to earn a Juris Doctorate at Columbia Law School in New York City. Dinkel's eight-year break as a student made him eager to immerse himself in all this new school offered. He wasted no time getting involved in fellowships, student organizations, and assistantships. The tenacity Dinkel demonstrated at Columbia landed him a job post-grad at the New York office of the prestigious international law firm Jones Day and two federal judicial clerkships.

Calling his time at Jones Day a success would be an understatement. Among his many accomplishments, Dinkel played an integral role in&nbsp;Glacier Northwest v. Teamsters, which his team argued and won before the United States Supreme Court in January 2023. Dinkel's research and writing contributed to every phase of the process and earned him a place on the briefs and the opportunity to attend the oral argument in Washington, D.C.

In August, Dinkel will leave his position at the firm to clerk for two highly distinguished federal judges. Dinkel will serve as a judicial clerk for Judge Benjamin Beaton in the Western District of Kentucky for a year and then with Judge Raymond Kethledge in the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in Michigan the following year.

After only two years as an official legal professional, Dinkel proves that no matter what stage of your career, an education at Fort Hays State helps its graduates shape their futures.

He and his wife, Ervis, live in Kentucky with their two children, William (Liam) and Arabella (Ari).

<a></a>Kelly Nuckolls&nbsp;'13, Fayetteville, Arkansas

The connections that develop between students and faculty at Fort Hays State University are as meaningful as the education gained. Meeting former political science chair and professor Dr. Shala Mills inspired Kelly Nuckolls to pursue a career in food insecurity advocacy.

Sitting in Dr. Mills' first-ever offering of Food &amp; Politics, Nuckolls began considering the political, ecological, and economic facets of food insecurity she had never considered. As a political science major, Nuckolls understood that by starting locally in her community, she could make a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.

With Dr. Mills' mentorship, Nuckolls helped establish the Tiger Food Pantry on campus, a resource that continues to supplement FHSU students' nutritional needs more than a decade later. Her efforts didn't stop at creating this valuable on-campus resource, however. Through her work in the Center for Civic Leadership at FHSU, Nuckolls became immersed in tying Fort Hays State to several statewide and national hunger initiatives, including the Kansas Hunger Dialogue and Universities Fighting World Hunger.

An active student at FHSU, Nuckolls was inducted into the Mortar Board national collegiate honor society and Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science honor society. She became a voice for fellow students through her role in the Student Government Association as an Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences senator.

After graduating from FHSU in 2013, Nuckolls received her Juris Doctorate from Drake University Law School, where she continued her service commitments and became a staff member and executive editor for the Drake Journal of Agricultural Law.

Wanting to learn more about agricultural law and policy's impacts on food insecurity, Nuckolls attended the University of Arkansas, where she was admitted into their prestigious Master of Law (LL.M.) in Agricultural and food law program.

Her accomplishments have led her back to the University of Arkansas School of Law, where she serves as its assistant director and visiting law professor for the LL.M. in the agricultural and food law program. Prior to that, Nuckolls worked at the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, a nonprofit advocacy organization in Washington, D.C.

Less than a decade after graduating from FHSU, Nuckolls has built tremendous food and agricultural law expertise and has impacted federal policy. She uses the knowledge gained at FHSU and beyond to empower others to advocate for positive change in our food system policies nationwide.

She resides in Arkansas with her husband, Luke, and is expecting her first child later this year.

<a></a>Dr. Eugene "Gene" Fleharty, Friend of FHSU, Hays, Kansas

The word "friend" falls short of describing the impact of Dr. Eugene "Gene" Fleharty's contributions to Fort Hays State and its community over his 37 years of service. His sustained involvement demonstrates that one does not have to graduate from Fort Hays State University to provide unwavering support to its community and students.

Growing up in Hastings, Nebraska, some of Fleharty's earliest memories as a nature enthusiast came from observing native birds and wildlife on his family's farm north of town. His father, a chemistry professor at Hastings College and family homestead farmer, firmly believed in marrying one's passion with their education and urged Fleharty to build upon that interest at college.

This advice earned Fleharty more than his undergraduate degree in biology and mathematics. While attending Hastings College, he met and fell in love with his wife, Jo Ann, with whom he recently celebrated 67 years of marriage. The couple moved to Albuquerque after Fleharty graduated from Hastings College, where he earned his master's degree in biology at the University of New Mexico in 1958 and his doctorate in 1962.

A meaningful mentorship with his graduate advisor shaped Fleharty's philosophy in instruction. When he was hired as a biology instructor at Fort Hays State University, he intended to instill the same personal lessons and knowledge his advisor shared with him to his students.

Alongside Dr. Gary Hulett, Fleharty helped create "Can Man Survive?" a course exploring the interactions of humans and the environment. Students enrolled in droves, sometimes more than 150 per section, to learn more about humans' impact on the environment. To this day, many express how the course changed their life.

His work as a department chair for 11 years and as a professor earned him several on-campus awards, including the Pilot Award in 1991 and the President's Distinguished Scholar Award in 1990. However, more meaningful to Fleharty than any award was the opportunity to help his students as a professor and mentor and the ability to sponsor 52 graduate students earning their master's degrees.

Fleharty retired in 1999 but remained committed to helping Fort Hays State University and its students. To connect with past students, he volunteered for the FHSU Foundation to request scholarship donations by phone. Years later, donations still roll in from those touched by Fleharty's genuine conversations as a volunteer.

Following retirement, Fleharty extended his philanthropy beyond volunteer work by establishing several funds assisting FHSU students. Fleharty and his brothers generously provided funding to build new bleachers for the FHSU softball complex. A few years later, he and Jo Ann decided to make another transformational gift for the softball program and donated additional funding for new artificial turf. The field was dedicated as the "Fleharty Family Field" earlier this year in honor of these contributions to the sport's future at FHSU. Fleharty's name also accompanies a biology scholarship and a fellowship benefiting graduate students in an assistantship.

Fleharty lives in Hays with his wife, Jo Ann. They have two children, Debra and Chris, four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

He wished to share a personal message, which is included below.

As I look back on my life at 88 years old, certain people have profoundly impacted me, to whom I want to express my gratitude.

First and foremost, I want to thank my students. It was an absolute privilege to stand by their side during both the successes and failures of their endeavors. Watching them grow and learn was an incredible experience I will always cherish. I am unbelievably proud to have played a small part in that success.

To my colleagues, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Without naming everyone who has touched my life, I'd like to thank Dr. Gary Hulett and Dr. Virgil Howe. Their friendship, partnership, and advice were priceless to me.

To my wife, Jo Ann: You run across people in your life who want to help you through, and she's done more than that. I'm so lucky to have had her by my side through our 67 years of marriage.

Lastly, I want to extend my thanks to those whom I have not mentioned by name. Thank you for being part of my journey.

EDITORS NOTE: The story was updated to reflect biographical errors.

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