The Schmidt Foundation is generously providing up to $100,000 in matching funds to the St. Thomas More Society, the annual fund for Hays Catholic Schools. Gifts made to the STMS between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023, will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000 per gift. This gift is to encourage stewardship and philanthropy in our community and only new gifts are subject to the matching funds. A new gift is one that was not received in the past fiscal year or an increase in the amount given over the past fiscal year.

The St. Thomas More Society is tasked to collect $850,000 of operating funds for the Catholic Schools in fiscal year 22-23. To make a contribution, visit <a href="http://hayscatholicschools.org/">hayscatholicschools.org</a> or call the Hays Catholic Schools Advancement Office at (785) 621-5421.

Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary are continually blessed with the generosity of many around the world, including our dedicated alumni following. The Alumni Association of TMP-Marian is excited to announce the following challenge to its alumni. The graduating class year that has the most participation in the STMS in FY 22-23, will earn the Bob &amp; Pat Schmidt Philanthropy Award. This award will be displayed in the Advancement/Alumni offices at TMP-Marian and the winning class year will be recognized in the December 2023 edition of The Monogram, a bi-annual publication of the Alumni Assocation.

“Bob and Pat were believers in giving back to those who helped them, and helped others to be successful. We hope this “Challenge Gift” will encourage others to do the same.” Gary Shorman, foundation president.

In 2012, Bob and Pat Schmidt were pacesetting contributors to the creation of the St. Thomas More Society which was created to ensure the continued growth and success of the Catholic Schools of the greater Hays area. Diversity and excellence in academics are a signature of our region and members of the STMS believe in furthering the success of Catholic education and are committed to financial security for the schools well into the future. This gift of matching funds has the possibility of infusing $200,000 of new funding into the schools operating budget - funds that ensure its students receive a superior education from the best educators in the industry.

Located in Hays, Kan., the Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary, is a Catholic school system serving grades PK-12.&nbsp; Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world.&nbsp; Under the direction of the Diocese of Salina, the Hays Catholic Schools are supported by the Catholic churches of Hays, Catharine, Antonino, Schoenchen and Munjor. At Holy Family Elementary, we are Christ to one another. For over a century, Thomas More Prep-Marian has served young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594990793482.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Schmidt Foundation is generously providing up to $100,000 in matching funds to the St. Thomas More Society, the annual fund for Hays Catholic Schools. Gifts made to the STMS between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023, will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000 per gift. This gift is to encourage stewardship and philanthropy in our community and only new gifts are subject to the matching funds. A new gift is one that was not received in the past fiscal year or an increase in the amount given over the past fiscal year.The St. Thomas More Society is tasked to collect $850,000 of operating funds for the Catholic Schools in fiscal year 22-23. To make a contribution, visit <a href="http://hayscatholicschools.org/">hayscatholicschools.org</a> or call the Hays Catholic Schools Advancement Office at (785) 621-5421.Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary are continually blessed with the generosity of many around the world, including our dedicated alumni following. The Alumni Association of TMP-Marian is excited to announce the following challenge to its alumni. The graduating class year that has the most participation in the STMS in FY 22-23, will earn the Bob &amp; Pat Schmidt Philanthropy Award. This award will be displayed in the Advancement/Alumni offices at TMP-Marian and the winning class year will be recognized in the December 2023 edition of The Monogram, a bi-annual publication of the Alumni Assocation.“Bob and Pat were believers in giving back to those who helped them, and helped others to be successful. We hope this “Challenge Gift” will encourage others to do the same.” Gary Shorman, foundation president.In 2012, Bob and Pat Schmidt were pacesetting contributors to the creation of the St. Thomas More Society which was created to ensure the continued growth and success of the Catholic Schools of the greater Hays area. Diversity and excellence in academics are a signature of our region and members of the STMS believe in furthering the success of Catholic education and are committed to financial security for the schools well into the future. This gift of matching funds has the possibility of infusing $200,000 of new funding into the schools operating budget - funds that ensure its students receive a superior education from the best educators in the industry.Located in Hays, Kan., the Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary, is a Catholic school system serving grades PK-12.&nbsp; Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world.&nbsp; Under the direction of the Diocese of Salina, the Hays Catholic Schools are supported by the Catholic churches of Hays, Catharine, Antonino, Schoenchen and Munjor. At Holy Family Elementary, we are Christ to one another. For over a century, Thomas More Prep-Marian has served young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

Schmidt Foundation grants $100K in matching funds to Hays Catholic Schools

A new volunteer began his duties last week at HaysMed. &nbsp;Hoss, a husky/German shepherd mix, started his new job as a therapy dog.

Hoss made his first appearance on the Acute Care Unit, visiting with approved patients, as well as associates. Hoss is 10 years old and belongs to Andrea Coover, APRN, who works in the Pulmonology Clinic. Coover and Hoss are a certified Pet Therapy Team through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Pet Therapy provides a positive social interaction between the pet and a patient, family, or staff member. Pet therapy sessions at the hospital are a great way to help patients feel happy. Handlers and their dogs make short visits to the rooms of patients to help relieve stress, depression, and anxiety. Pet therapy is known for lifting spirits and lowering blood pressure when patients interact with the dog.&nbsp; Patients and children who engage in pet therapy find it provides a comforting source for healing.

Hoss and Andrea will visit patients and staff on Wednesday afternoons! The program is currently being piloted on the Acute Care Unit, but plans are to expand our program to other units soon.&nbsp;

The pet therapy program at HaysMed is sponsored by the HaysMed Volunteers. If you are interested in the pet therapy program, contact Nikki Mihm at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Nikki.mihm@haysmed.com">Nikki.mihm@haysmed.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-623-5890. Each of our Pet Therapy Teams are certified through a national pet therapy organization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658413587961.jpeg" alt="Andrea Coover and Hoss" />
 <figcaption>Andrea Coover and Hoss</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedA new volunteer began his duties last week at HaysMed. &nbsp;Hoss, a husky/German shepherd mix, started his new job as a therapy dog.Hoss made his first appearance on the Acute Care Unit, visiting with approved patients, as well as associates. Hoss is 10 years old and belongs to Andrea Coover, APRN, who works in the Pulmonology Clinic. Coover and Hoss are a certified Pet Therapy Team through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.Pet Therapy provides a positive social interaction between the pet and a patient, family, or staff member. Pet therapy sessions at the hospital are a great way to help patients feel happy. Handlers and their dogs make short visits to the rooms of patients to help relieve stress, depression, and anxiety. Pet therapy is known for lifting spirits and lowering blood pressure when patients interact with the dog.&nbsp; Patients and children who engage in pet therapy find it provides a comforting source for healing.Hoss and Andrea will visit patients and staff on Wednesday afternoons! The program is currently being piloted on the Acute Care Unit, but plans are to expand our program to other units soon.&nbsp;The pet therapy program at HaysMed is sponsored by the HaysMed Volunteers. If you are interested in the pet therapy program, contact Nikki Mihm at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Nikki.mihm@haysmed.com">Nikki.mihm@haysmed.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-623-5890. Each of our Pet Therapy Teams are certified through a national pet therapy organization.

HaysMed welcomes Hoss the pet therapy dog

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Hays city manager Toby Dougherty.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays city manager Toby Dougherty" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=x55tf-127dc68-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Hays city manager Toby Dougherty.

🎤Forward Ever: Hays city manager Toby Dougherty

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a  seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.4% in June. This was an increase from 2.3 percent in May and a decrease from 3.5 percent in June 2021.

“Even with a slight uptick to 2.4 percent, the Kansas unemployment rate remained near historic lows in June,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “This indicates strength in the Kansas job market as people continue to find employment across the state.” 

The jobless rate in Ellis County rose from 1.7 percent in May to 2.1 percent in June. Just one county west of Wichita had a June unemployment rate above 3 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 4,600 from May. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.  Private sector jobs increased by 700 over the month, while government increased by 3,900.

“The Kansas economy saw robust hiring in June, adding 4,600 jobs over the month,” said Labor Economist Nathan Kessler. “While the job market remains strong, real hourly earnings continue to decline as a result of persistently high inflation, falling 4.1% compared to June 2021.”

Since June 2021 Kansas' seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 20,800. This change is due to an increase of 21,800 private sector jobs and a decrease of 1,000 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658502507719.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.4% in June. This was an increase from 2.3 percent in May and a decrease from 3.5 percent in June 2021.“Even with a slight uptick to 2.4 percent, the Kansas unemployment rate remained near historic lows in June,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “This indicates strength in the Kansas job market as people continue to find employment across the state.” The jobless rate in Ellis County rose from 1.7 percent in May to 2.1 percent in June. Just one county west of Wichita had a June unemployment rate above 3 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 4,600 from May. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 700 over the month, while government increased by 3,900.“The Kansas economy saw robust hiring in June, adding 4,600 jobs over the month,” said Labor Economist Nathan Kessler. “While the job market remains strong, real hourly earnings continue to decline as a result of persistently high inflation, falling 4.1% compared to June 2021.”Since June 2021 Kansas' seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 20,800. This change is due to an increase of 21,800 private sector jobs and a decrease of 1,000 government jobs.

Ellis County jobless rate rises to 2.1 percent in June

JETMORE&nbsp; — Much of western Kansas is currently experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions. What few rains that have fallen recently have been hit and miss thunderstorms where one small area gets a decent rain, but everything around it gets just sprinkles, or nothing at all. Add the unrelenting 100-degree temperatures and the blast furnace winds, it makes for a very hot and dry summer.

Given the current dry conditions you may think that the last thing I would be wanting to talk about is planting cover crops. I’m certainly not advocating that we just put seed in dry soil and hope that at some point it rains enough to germinate and come up. But if mother nature provides an opportunity, planting a cover crop in wheat stubble may be viable option that can provide many benefits down the road.

Much of the success of a wheat sorghum/corn fallow cropping system is reliant on having adequate ground cover during the fallow period to reduce evaporation rates and help suppress weeds. In many areas, this year’s wheat crop was very short and thin, thus not having the cover needed to make this system work as well as it should. At some point, if there is enough moisture to get a cover crop established and get it growing it can help provide the ground cover needed that is currently lacking in these wheat stubble fields.

There also looks to be a significant lack of livestock forage across much of the state. If you are a livestock producer, and the opportunity presents itself, a cover crop that can be grazed or hayed may provide the needed forage to keep the livestock enterprise more intact.

With that said, cover crops will need soil moisture to germinate and grow like any other living growing plant, so it’s a tradeoff. But a mix that is properly designed with the right species, and planted and terminated timely, can mitigate that soil moisture use and other moisture losses during the fallow period.

I would stick with predominately low water use species in the mix. Millets work well in this situation. They are shallow rooted and grow and mature quickly and very drought tolerant once established. Seed cost is reasonable because the seed is small and just a few pounds is all that is needed in a mix. Because of the small seed size planting depth should be no more then about an inch deep so getting these species planted timely after a rain is essential. I would also add a small amount deep rooted species like sunflowers turnips or radishes. They can really help with breaking compaction layers that almost all cropped fields have. Some of these species can also be great habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators. If the planting is delayed until after early-August, oats could be added to the mix. The oats really help feed the soil

biology that is critical to building and maintaining soil aggregates, which in turn increases soil porosity, and can extend the grazing season well into late fall.

Most summer planted cover mixes will frost terminate once temperatures get cold enough in the fall. But if it turns dry it may be appropriate to terminate the cover early so it doesn’t continue to use moisture that may be needed for the next cash crop. This is really a judgement call based on current conditions at the time and long-term weather forecasts.

If you used an herbicide in the growing wheat carryover could be a concern. Many post wheat herbicides that provide long term residual weed control have long plant back restrictions. Always check your herbicide label and if in doubt consult with your supplier or crop advisor.

The Risk Management Agency (RMA) has recently adjusted the crop insurance provisions regarding cover crops and termination guidelines, easing many of the prior restrictions. I would suggest that you contact your crop insurance agent before planting the cover crop to make sure you are meeting all the insurance requirements.

Cover crops will not fit every producer’s cropping strategy and they need to be looked at as just “another tool in the toolbox”. For certain farmers, if properly used, they can provide a lot of soil health and economic benefits, for others not so much. It really boils down to each individual person and what works for them on their farm or ranch.

For more information about cover crops or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@usda.gov or any local NRCS office.

Dale Younger is a Soil Health Specialist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628525048992.jpeg" alt="Dale Younker&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dale Younker&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dale Younker NRCSJETMORE&nbsp; — Much of western Kansas is currently experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions. What few rains that have fallen recently have been hit and miss thunderstorms where one small area gets a decent rain, but everything around it gets just sprinkles, or nothing at all. Add the unrelenting 100-degree temperatures and the blast furnace winds, it makes for a very hot and dry summer.Given the current dry conditions you may think that the last thing I would be wanting to talk about is planting cover crops. I’m certainly not advocating that we just put seed in dry soil and hope that at some point it rains enough to germinate and come up. But if mother nature provides an opportunity, planting a cover crop in wheat stubble may be viable option that can provide many benefits down the road.Much of the success of a wheat sorghum/corn fallow cropping system is reliant on having adequate ground cover during the fallow period to reduce evaporation rates and help suppress weeds. In many areas, this year’s wheat crop was very short and thin, thus not having the cover needed to make this system work as well as it should. At some point, if there is enough moisture to get a cover crop established and get it growing it can help provide the ground cover needed that is currently lacking in these wheat stubble fields.There also looks to be a significant lack of livestock forage across much of the state. If you are a livestock producer, and the opportunity presents itself, a cover crop that can be grazed or hayed may provide the needed forage to keep the livestock enterprise more intact.With that said, cover crops will need soil moisture to germinate and grow like any other living growing plant, so it’s a tradeoff. But a mix that is properly designed with the right species, and planted and terminated timely, can mitigate that soil moisture use and other moisture losses during the fallow period.I would stick with predominately low water use species in the mix. Millets work well in this situation. They are shallow rooted and grow and mature quickly and very drought tolerant once established. Seed cost is reasonable because the seed is small and just a few pounds is all that is needed in a mix. Because of the small seed size planting depth should be no more then about an inch deep so getting these species planted timely after a rain is essential. I would also add a small amount deep rooted species like sunflowers turnips or radishes. They can really help with breaking compaction layers that almost all cropped fields have. Some of these species can also be great habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators. If the planting is delayed until after early-August, oats could be added to the mix. The oats really help feed the soilbiology that is critical to building and maintaining soil aggregates, which in turn increases soil porosity, and can extend the grazing season well into late fall.Most summer planted cover mixes will frost terminate once temperatures get cold enough in the fall. But if it turns dry it may be appropriate to terminate the cover early so it doesn’t continue to use moisture that may be needed for the next cash crop. This is really a judgement call based on current conditions at the time and long-term weather forecasts.If you used an herbicide in the growing wheat carryover could be a concern. Many post wheat herbicides that provide long term residual weed control have long plant back restrictions. Always check your herbicide label and if in doubt consult with your supplier or crop advisor.The Risk Management Agency (RMA) has recently adjusted the crop insurance provisions regarding cover crops and termination guidelines, easing many of the prior restrictions. I would suggest that you contact your crop insurance agent before planting the cover crop to make sure you are meeting all the insurance requirements.Cover crops will not fit every producer’s cropping strategy and they need to be looked at as just “another tool in the toolbox”. For certain farmers, if properly used, they can provide a lot of soil health and economic benefits, for others not so much. It really boils down to each individual person and what works for them on their farm or ranch.For more information about cover crops or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@usda.gov or any local NRCS office.Dale Younger is a Soil Health Specialist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore.&nbsp;

YOUNKER: Planting a summer cover crop in wheat stubble

A heat advisory will be in effect from 1 to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, the National Weather Service reported.

The high Friday is expected to be 102 Friday, followed by a Saturday that could see the mercury rise up to 108 degrees.

Saturday will also bring increased winds, up to 21 mph in the Hays area.

There remains a slight chance of showers to thunderstorms after midnight Saturday.

Precipitation is expected into next week, with a 20 to 50 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms from Sunday to Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658499821865.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A heat advisory will be in effect from 1 to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, the National Weather Service reported.The high Friday is expected to be 102 Friday, followed by a Saturday that could see the mercury rise up to 108 degrees.Saturday will also bring increased winds, up to 21 mph in the Hays area.There remains a slight chance of showers to thunderstorms after midnight Saturday.Precipitation is expected into next week, with a 20 to 50 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms from Sunday to Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">More intense heat is expected Saturday afternoon, with afternoon temperatures in the 103-109 range. South winds will be strong, gusting over 30 mph. Some record highs are likely. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/WcNNaM6Glr">pic.twitter.com/WcNNaM6Glr</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1550367249520685056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Heat advisories issued for both Friday, Saturday

In 1977, I was 2nd&nbsp;Lieutenant in the Army assigned to Medical Company C, which we called “Charlie Med” at Fort Richardson, Alaska. Sergeant&nbsp;Parenza&nbsp;(name changed), knocked on my door one afternoon and asked if she could talk to me about one of her Soldiers,&nbsp;who was pregnant out of wedlock and&nbsp;had three previous abortions. The young lady, visibly distressed, came in with SGT&nbsp;Parenza&nbsp;to explain her situation.&nbsp;She told me about having&nbsp;three&nbsp;previous abortions, saying she&nbsp;didn’t want to have another one but didn’t know what else she could do.

Without much hesitation, I asked why she didn’t want to have another abortion. &nbsp;She described the distress and&nbsp;deep&nbsp;depression she felt after each abortion&nbsp;and said&nbsp;she didn’t know of any other choice at&nbsp;those&nbsp;times or now. &nbsp;She was clearly showing her&nbsp;stage of&nbsp;pregnancy at that time so I figured she had been struggling with this decision for some time. &nbsp;Her income level&nbsp;was very low as a young Private in the Army&nbsp;and&nbsp;she was required&nbsp;to live in the barracks where only single Soldiers could live.&nbsp;&nbsp;She couldn’t afford to live in an apartment and didn’t have anyone to help her. &nbsp;She was clearly in a deep personal and professional crisis.

I wasn’t an advocate for or against abortion at that time but I&nbsp;was taught and believed that all human life is sacred. I&nbsp;also&nbsp;knew that there were organizations that were set up to help women with crisis pregnancies. &nbsp;I told her that SGT&nbsp;Parenza&nbsp;and I would look into some possibilities and would&nbsp;let her know what we found out.

A few days later, we met again&nbsp;and gave her the information about organizations who&nbsp;could help her&nbsp;keep the baby or give it up for adoption,&nbsp;if she so chose. &nbsp;The look on her face was disbelief and she immediately asked me,“Sir, you mean I don’t have to have&nbsp;an abortion again?”&nbsp;&nbsp;I told her, “No, Sophia, you do&nbsp;not have to have an abortion, if you&nbsp;don’t want to." I could sense deep relief, if not hope, as she left my office,&nbsp;elated and&nbsp;with&nbsp;a huge smile on her face.

A number of&nbsp;months passed and I had a knock on my office door at “Charlie Med”&nbsp;one morning. In walked&nbsp;the young Private (Sophia)&nbsp;holding&nbsp;a&nbsp;beautiful little baby girl. &nbsp;She said to me: “Sir, remember when we talked last and you said I didn’t have to have an abortion because there were people who would help me? Look at my baby! They helped me. I can’t believe I am holding her right now!” &nbsp;

It was&nbsp;an&nbsp;absolutely&nbsp;priceless moment&nbsp;and&nbsp;it was&nbsp;one of those “signature&nbsp;experiences”&nbsp;in my life&nbsp;that solidified&nbsp;me in my beliefs.&nbsp;I&nbsp;may have been&nbsp;nothing more than&nbsp;an instrument of hope&nbsp;in a crisis&nbsp;moment for this young Soldier,&nbsp;but the experience&nbsp;has&nbsp;affected me for life,&nbsp;as it did herholding that beautiful precious&nbsp;baby girl.

Seared into my mind,&nbsp;from that experience,&nbsp;was the desire&nbsp;to give hope for life-affirming alternatives to women caught&nbsp;in such crises, &nbsp;especially in today’s&nbsp;society where the&nbsp;right to choose&nbsp;almost&nbsp;anything&nbsp;—&nbsp;“for me”&nbsp;—&nbsp;is&nbsp;the&nbsp;dominant&nbsp;determinant over an issue&nbsp;so important as:choosing life for a&nbsp;defenseless child&nbsp;in the womb.&nbsp;This young Private&nbsp;stepped beyond her immediate needs and&nbsp;decided, over all other&nbsp;frightening&nbsp;issues, to give that baby the chance for a full life.&nbsp;After seeing her&nbsp;beautiful baby girl,&nbsp;I was reminded graphically,&nbsp;that the voiceless, defenseless person in a difficult pregnancy — the unborn child — must be considered&nbsp;and valued – in itself - if we are to remain a just society.

This is&nbsp;controversial&nbsp;in today’s society, but we must ask&nbsp;ourselves&nbsp;a central question: Is&nbsp;the emphasis almost&nbsp;exclusively on the woman’s right to terminate a pregnancy,&nbsp;therefore&nbsp;compelling&nbsp;some to make&nbsp;that selection&nbsp;because they don’t see alternatives?&nbsp;Could&nbsp;we not reduce the&nbsp;urgency&nbsp;to terminate&nbsp;a pregnancy&nbsp;and&nbsp;rather&nbsp;increase&nbsp;and promote life-giving, healthy opportunities for women's access to life-affirming alternatives?&nbsp;Too often, perhaps because the unborn child cannot speak, possibly&nbsp;to&nbsp;dull&nbsp;the&nbsp;potential&nbsp;guilt&nbsp;of terminating the child’s life,&nbsp;or&nbsp;perhaps because we cannot be assured of the future; we reduce choice to what it does for the&nbsp;distressed mother&nbsp;and&nbsp;we therefore fail&nbsp;to weigh-in&nbsp;the&nbsp;“life cost”&nbsp;to a defenseless, silent, invisible son or daughter.&nbsp;That is, in fact, what they are&nbsp;—&nbsp;a&nbsp;son or daughter.

The “Value Them Both” amendment to our Kansas Constitution on the ballot on Aug. 2.&nbsp;isn’t something earthshaking, but it does bring the issues of life, death, quality of care, support for women, and a potential voice for the most defenseless, to the vote of the people through the officials they elect. It then rests upon us to exercise our own vote to elect responsible and accountable legislators.

I will support the Value Them Both amendment. &nbsp;May we always champion&nbsp;to support&nbsp;life&nbsp;of both the mother and the child&nbsp;and assist them throughout their lives for their good and the good of all! &nbsp;

In 1977, I was 2nd&nbsp;Lieutenant in the Army assigned to Medical Company C, which we called “Charlie Med” at Fort Richardson, Alaska. Sergeant&nbsp;Parenza&nbsp;(name changed), knocked on my door one afternoon and asked if she could talk to me about one of her Soldiers,&nbsp;who was pregnant out of wedlock and&nbsp;had three previous abortions. The young lady, visibly distressed, came in with SGT&nbsp;Parenza&nbsp;to explain her situation.&nbsp;She told me about having&nbsp;three&nbsp;previous abortions, saying she&nbsp;didn’t want to have another one but didn’t know what else she could do.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="opinion" />
 <figcaption>opinion</figcaption>
 </figure>Without much hesitation, I asked why she didn’t want to have another abortion. &nbsp;She described the distress and&nbsp;deep&nbsp;depression she felt after each abortion&nbsp;and said&nbsp;she didn’t know of any other choice at&nbsp;those&nbsp;times or now. &nbsp;She was clearly showing her&nbsp;stage of&nbsp;pregnancy at that time so I figured she had been struggling with this decision for some time. &nbsp;Her income level&nbsp;was very low as a young Private in the Army&nbsp;and&nbsp;she was required&nbsp;to live in the barracks where only single Soldiers could live.&nbsp;&nbsp;She couldn’t afford to live in an apartment and didn’t have anyone to help her. &nbsp;She was clearly in a deep personal and professional crisis.I wasn’t an advocate for or against abortion at that time but I&nbsp;was taught and believed that all human life is sacred. I&nbsp;also&nbsp;knew that there were organizations that were set up to help women with crisis pregnancies. &nbsp;I told her that SGT&nbsp;Parenza&nbsp;and I would look into some possibilities and would&nbsp;let her know what we found out.A few days later, we met again&nbsp;and gave her the information about organizations who&nbsp;could help her&nbsp;keep the baby or give it up for adoption,&nbsp;if she so chose. &nbsp;The look on her face was disbelief and she immediately asked me,“Sir, you mean I don’t have to have&nbsp;an abortion again?”&nbsp;&nbsp;I told her, “No, Sophia, you do&nbsp;not have to have an abortion, if you&nbsp;don’t want to." I could sense deep relief, if not hope, as she left my office,&nbsp;elated and&nbsp;with&nbsp;a huge smile on her face.A number of&nbsp;months passed and I had a knock on my office door at “Charlie Med”&nbsp;one morning. In walked&nbsp;the young Private (Sophia)&nbsp;holding&nbsp;a&nbsp;beautiful little baby girl. &nbsp;She said to me: “Sir, remember when we talked last and you said I didn’t have to have an abortion because there were people who would help me? Look at my baby! They helped me. I can’t believe I am holding her right now!” &nbsp;It was&nbsp;an&nbsp;absolutely&nbsp;priceless moment&nbsp;and&nbsp;it was&nbsp;one of those “signature&nbsp;experiences”&nbsp;in my life&nbsp;that solidified&nbsp;me in my beliefs.&nbsp;I&nbsp;may have been&nbsp;nothing more than&nbsp;an instrument of hope&nbsp;in a crisis&nbsp;moment for this young Soldier,&nbsp;but the experience&nbsp;has&nbsp;affected me for life,&nbsp;as it did herholding that beautiful precious&nbsp;baby girl.Seared into my mind,&nbsp;from that experience,&nbsp;was the desire&nbsp;to give hope for life-affirming alternatives to women caught&nbsp;in such crises, &nbsp;especially in today’s&nbsp;society where the&nbsp;right to choose&nbsp;almost&nbsp;anything&nbsp;—&nbsp;“for me”&nbsp;—&nbsp;is&nbsp;the&nbsp;dominant&nbsp;determinant over an issue&nbsp;so important as:choosing life for a&nbsp;defenseless child&nbsp;in the womb.&nbsp;This young Private&nbsp;stepped beyond her immediate needs and&nbsp;decided, over all other&nbsp;frightening&nbsp;issues, to give that baby the chance for a full life.&nbsp;After seeing her&nbsp;beautiful baby girl,&nbsp;I was reminded graphically,&nbsp;that the voiceless, defenseless person in a difficult pregnancy — the unborn child — must be considered&nbsp;and valued – in itself - if we are to remain a just society.This is&nbsp;controversial&nbsp;in today’s society, but we must ask&nbsp;ourselves&nbsp;a central question: Is&nbsp;the emphasis almost&nbsp;exclusively on the woman’s right to terminate a pregnancy,&nbsp;therefore&nbsp;compelling&nbsp;some to make&nbsp;that selection&nbsp;because they don’t see alternatives?&nbsp;Could&nbsp;we not reduce the&nbsp;urgency&nbsp;to terminate&nbsp;a pregnancy&nbsp;and&nbsp;rather&nbsp;increase&nbsp;and promote life-giving, healthy opportunities for women's access to life-affirming alternatives?&nbsp;Too often, perhaps because the unborn child cannot speak, possibly&nbsp;to&nbsp;dull&nbsp;the&nbsp;potential&nbsp;guilt&nbsp;of terminating the child’s life,&nbsp;or&nbsp;perhaps because we cannot be assured of the future; we reduce choice to what it does for the&nbsp;distressed mother&nbsp;and&nbsp;we therefore fail&nbsp;to weigh-in&nbsp;the&nbsp;“life cost”&nbsp;to a defenseless, silent, invisible son or daughter.&nbsp;That is, in fact, what they are&nbsp;—&nbsp;a&nbsp;son or daughter.The “Value Them Both” amendment to our Kansas Constitution on the ballot on Aug. 2.&nbsp;isn’t something earthshaking, but it does bring the issues of life, death, quality of care, support for women, and a potential voice for the most defenseless, to the vote of the people through the officials they elect. It then rests upon us to exercise our own vote to elect responsible and accountable legislators.I will support the Value Them Both amendment. &nbsp;May we always champion&nbsp;to support&nbsp;life&nbsp;of both the mother and the child&nbsp;and assist them throughout their lives for their good and the good of all! &nbsp;Allen Schmidt, Hays

LETTER: Taught to choose life by a young Army private

The city of Hays street seal coat schedule has been updated. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, the seal coat contractor will return to finish sealing various city 
streets (see map above).

Seal coat is spray applied in two coats with a dry time of two to three&nbsp; hours per pass, so the streets being sealed will be temporarily closed 
during this time. &nbsp;On the date scheduled for treatment, all cars need to
 be moved from the street by 8 a.m. &nbsp;Streets being sealed will be 
closed from approximately 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Access can be achieved
 in cases of emergency. Parking on adjacent streets is recommended 
during the daytime. Parking in driveways is OK if you do not plan on 
moving the vehicle between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. &nbsp;The seal coat treatment
 should not be driven on until it has set up (dried). It will stain 
surfaces such as concrete, carpet or flooring if tracked from 
construction areas. Please have all lawn watering devices turned off 
the evening before the scheduled date. Please help keep the streets 
clean and dry for a smooth and lasting project. Traffic control will be 
set in areas of work being completed and picked up by the end of the 
work day. &nbsp;Notification of adjacent properties will be made door to door
 24 hours in advance of the work.&nbsp;

For more information, call (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658497225349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe city of Hays street seal coat schedule has been updated. &nbsp;On Tuesday, the seal coat contractor will return to finish sealing various city 
streets (see map above).Seal coat is spray applied in two coats with a dry time of two to three&nbsp; hours per pass, so the streets being sealed will be temporarily closed 
during this time. &nbsp;On the date scheduled for treatment, all cars need to
 be moved from the street by 8 a.m. &nbsp;Streets being sealed will be 
closed from approximately 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Access can be achieved
 in cases of emergency. Parking on adjacent streets is recommended 
during the daytime. Parking in driveways is OK if you do not plan on 
moving the vehicle between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. &nbsp;The seal coat treatment
 should not be driven on until it has set up (dried). It will stain 
surfaces such as concrete, carpet or flooring if tracked from 
construction areas. Please have all lawn watering devices turned off 
the evening before the scheduled date. Please help keep the streets 
clean and dry for a smooth and lasting project. Traffic control will be 
set in areas of work being completed and picked up by the end of the 
work day. &nbsp;Notification of adjacent properties will be made door to door
 24 hours in advance of the work.&nbsp;For more information, call (785) 628-7350.

Hays seal coat schedule updated for coming week

PITTSBURG — Saturday marks the 49th annual Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Start football game and the Hays High Indians will be well represented.&nbsp;

Standout offensive and defensive lineman Gavin Nutting was a late addition to this year’s game being played in Pittsburg.&nbsp;

Nutting and Hays High head coach Tony Crough are on the west
squad. 

This year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at Carnie
Smith Stadium in Pittsburg.

PITTSBURG — Saturday marks the 49th annual Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Start football game and the Hays High Indians will be well represented.&nbsp;Standout offensive and defensive lineman Gavin Nutting was a late addition to this year’s game being played in Pittsburg.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1309860652&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/7-21-22-gavin-nutting" title="7-21-22 - Gavin Nutting" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">7-21-22 - Gavin Nutting</a></div></div>Nutting and Hays High head coach Tony Crough are on the west
squad. This year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at Carnie
Smith Stadium in Pittsburg.

🏈Former Hays High standout Nutting set to play in Shrine Bowl

The Fort Hays State University Alumni Association is pleased to share the addition of 13 new members to its Alumni Association Board.

New members include Ashley Adorante, Overland Park; Clint Albers, Olathe; Dr. Christie Brungardt, Council Grove; Jenna Dempewolf, Gorham; Shane DeWald, Olathe; Josh Dreher, Hays; Baron Green, Hays; Alma Hidalgo-Blankinship, Wichita; Bryson Homman, St. Joseph, Mo.; Dr. Kaley Klaus, Hays; Brian Moore, Hays; Regan Reif, Great Bend; and Haydee Zamora, Hays.

Ashley Adorante, FHSU 2001 alumna of Overland Park, serves as outreach coordinator for The University of Kansas Cancer Center. In 2020, Adorante received FHSU’s Nita Landrum Award.

Clint Albers, 1999 and 2001 graduate, is the assistant superintendent of high school education for USD 233 in Olathe. At Fort Hays State, Albers competed on the football team as an offensive lineman.

Dr. Christie Brungardt, 2001 alum, is enjoying retirement with her husband, Curt, in Council Grove. Brungardt was a professor of leadership studies at Fort Hays State University, co-founder of Jana’s Campaign, and recipient of FHSU’s 2019 Distinguished Service Award.

Jenna Dempewolf, Gorham, earned dual degrees from FHSU in 2012 and works as a financial advisor with Werth Wealth Management LLC of Hays. During her time at FHSU, Dempewolf served as a senator with the Student Government Association.

Shane DeWald, 2001 graduate, of Olathe, serves as the executive director for the Blue Valley Recreation Commission. He is a former pole vaulter with the FHSU track and field team.

Josh Dreher, graduate of 2009, Hays, serves as senior vice president of commercial lending at the Bank of Hays. In 2021, he was the recipient of FHSU’s Nita Landrum Award.

Baron Green, 2019 alum, Hays, is a staff accountant for Adams Brown, LLC. He is a member of the Hays Young Professionals.

Alma Hidalgo-Blankinship, alum of 2013 and 2015, Wichita, is a scholarship program manager at the Rudd Foundation. Previously, Hidalgo-Blankinship served as an admissions counselor at Fort Hays State.

Bryson Homman, a 2021 graduate, is an interior designer for Goldberg Group Architects in St. Joseph, Mo. As an FHSU student, he was active in Sigma Chi fraternity, was an admissions student ambassador, and was crowned homecoming king in 2019.&nbsp;

Kaley Klaus, alum of 2012 and 2015, Hays, is an assistant professor of leadership studies and an international coordinator at FHSU. She is a Hays native.

Brian Moore, a 1999 graduate, Hays, is a residential project manager for Roofmasters. He is a former pitcher for the FHSU baseball team.

Regan Reif, 2013 alum, Great Bend, serves as a strategic marketing manager for The University of Kansas Health System. She is the 2021 recipient of FHSU’s Young Alumni Award.&nbsp;

Haydee Zamora, alum of 2018 and 2020, Hays, is the multi-cultural admissions counselor at FHSU and a former homecoming queen.

“I'm very excited about the future of our work with these volunteers,” said&nbsp;Carolyn Tatro, Fort Hays State Alumni Association alumni engagement strategist. “We have an enthusiastic group of individuals who are passionate about FHSU and advancing the mission of Tiger Nation. Each individual brings a wealth of new perspectives with their unique backgrounds and experiences, and I'm truly looking forward to working with them.”

These 13 new additions will join existing Alumni Association Board members Elizabeth Gerber ’99, ’01, ’03, Scott City; Dean Lavielle ’71, ’93, Newton; Brooke Oleen Tieperman ’01, ’01, Denver, Colo.; Jimmy Brough ’12, ’13, Topeka; Tara Risewick ’04, Norton; Ryan Ruda ’97, ’99, Holcomb; Tomi Schwandt ’07, Hays; and Derrick Tice ’96, St. Francis. Michael Slattery ’73, ’77, ’89, Hays, board chair, will be succeeded by board chair-elect, Chelsey Ladd ’08, ’08, Hays.&nbsp;

Established in 1916, the Fort Hays State University Alumni Association serves more than 70,000 FHSU graduates who live throughout the United States and 77 countries abroad.

Alumni Association Board nominations are accepted as positions become available. For more information on FHSU’s Alumni Association, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtI9QDjPq0lGGbvLZyItjhdqQJNWY3wysBzUpXZEns272AyD-_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemB4gHq4bXdJ-2B0WRjvMcnEvU7vgTogD4vCQok6BICxNggiRMqch3w3VJMPr4JWcKBMFOdcrK8iJ1Aq4zX3YKh4PhnSbWPzbkWDbbhcqhKsGIREXqEogg5-2FF2xrrlyQ2xbVClhmjLJ5Ocpp3SHe-2FT-2FcBbKuJD6MtNOtVQMbmzQZZOaR4hTExXzGORH9X36O8OfYOYPd4qOunoph-2FgECNR1trx-2B79ycbB-2FEVEJ5USmWGJ0IxpGtsMpUNmcRscnoVHMCU30mzypPLlJ49vzYfLJFVoQ-3D-3D">https://www.fhsualumni.com</a>, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>, or call 785-628-4430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658352644859.png" alt="Ashley Adorante, Clint Albers, Dr. Christie Brungardt, Jenna Dempewolf, Shane DeWald, Josh Dreher, Baron Green, Alma Hidalgo-Blankinship,Bryson Homman, Dr. Kaley Klaus, Brian Moore, Regan Reif, and Haydee Zamora." />
 <figcaption>Ashley Adorante, Clint Albers, Dr. Christie Brungardt, Jenna Dempewolf, Shane DeWald, Josh Dreher, Baron Green, Alma Hidalgo-Blankinship,Bryson Homman, Dr. Kaley Klaus, Brian Moore, Regan Reif, and Haydee Zamora.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Alumni AssociationThe Fort Hays State University Alumni Association is pleased to share the addition of 13 new members to its Alumni Association Board.New members include Ashley Adorante, Overland Park; Clint Albers, Olathe; Dr. Christie Brungardt, Council Grove; Jenna Dempewolf, Gorham; Shane DeWald, Olathe; Josh Dreher, Hays; Baron Green, Hays; Alma Hidalgo-Blankinship, Wichita; Bryson Homman, St. Joseph, Mo.; Dr. Kaley Klaus, Hays; Brian Moore, Hays; Regan Reif, Great Bend; and Haydee Zamora, Hays.Ashley Adorante, FHSU 2001 alumna of Overland Park, serves as outreach coordinator for The University of Kansas Cancer Center. In 2020, Adorante received FHSU’s Nita Landrum Award.Clint Albers, 1999 and 2001 graduate, is the assistant superintendent of high school education for USD 233 in Olathe. At Fort Hays State, Albers competed on the football team as an offensive lineman.Dr. Christie Brungardt, 2001 alum, is enjoying retirement with her husband, Curt, in Council Grove. Brungardt was a professor of leadership studies at Fort Hays State University, co-founder of Jana’s Campaign, and recipient of FHSU’s 2019 Distinguished Service Award.Jenna Dempewolf, Gorham, earned dual degrees from FHSU in 2012 and works as a financial advisor with Werth Wealth Management LLC of Hays. During her time at FHSU, Dempewolf served as a senator with the Student Government Association.Shane DeWald, 2001 graduate, of Olathe, serves as the executive director for the Blue Valley Recreation Commission. He is a former pole vaulter with the FHSU track and field team.Josh Dreher, graduate of 2009, Hays, serves as senior vice president of commercial lending at the Bank of Hays. In 2021, he was the recipient of FHSU’s Nita Landrum Award.Baron Green, 2019 alum, Hays, is a staff accountant for Adams Brown, LLC. He is a member of the Hays Young Professionals.Alma Hidalgo-Blankinship, alum of 2013 and 2015, Wichita, is a scholarship program manager at the Rudd Foundation. Previously, Hidalgo-Blankinship served as an admissions counselor at Fort Hays State.Bryson Homman, a 2021 graduate, is an interior designer for Goldberg Group Architects in St. Joseph, Mo. As an FHSU student, he was active in Sigma Chi fraternity, was an admissions student ambassador, and was crowned homecoming king in 2019.&nbsp;Kaley Klaus, alum of 2012 and 2015, Hays, is an assistant professor of leadership studies and an international coordinator at FHSU. She is a Hays native.Brian Moore, a 1999 graduate, Hays, is a residential project manager for Roofmasters. He is a former pitcher for the FHSU baseball team.Regan Reif, 2013 alum, Great Bend, serves as a strategic marketing manager for The University of Kansas Health System. She is the 2021 recipient of FHSU’s Young Alumni Award.&nbsp;Haydee Zamora, alum of 2018 and 2020, Hays, is the multi-cultural admissions counselor at FHSU and a former homecoming queen.“I'm very excited about the future of our work with these volunteers,” said&nbsp;Carolyn Tatro, Fort Hays State Alumni Association alumni engagement strategist. “We have an enthusiastic group of individuals who are passionate about FHSU and advancing the mission of Tiger Nation. Each individual brings a wealth of new perspectives with their unique backgrounds and experiences, and I'm truly looking forward to working with them.”These 13 new additions will join existing Alumni Association Board members Elizabeth Gerber ’99, ’01, ’03, Scott City; Dean Lavielle ’71, ’93, Newton; Brooke Oleen Tieperman ’01, ’01, Denver, Colo.; Jimmy Brough ’12, ’13, Topeka; Tara Risewick ’04, Norton; Ryan Ruda ’97, ’99, Holcomb; Tomi Schwandt ’07, Hays; and Derrick Tice ’96, St. Francis. Michael Slattery ’73, ’77, ’89, Hays, board chair, will be succeeded by board chair-elect, Chelsey Ladd ’08, ’08, Hays.&nbsp;Established in 1916, the Fort Hays State University Alumni Association serves more than 70,000 FHSU graduates who live throughout the United States and 77 countries abroad.Alumni Association Board nominations are accepted as positions become available. For more information on FHSU’s Alumni Association, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtI9QDjPq0lGGbvLZyItjhdqQJNWY3wysBzUpXZEns272AyD-_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemB4gHq4bXdJ-2B0WRjvMcnEvU7vgTogD4vCQok6BICxNggiRMqch3w3VJMPr4JWcKBMFOdcrK8iJ1Aq4zX3YKh4PhnSbWPzbkWDbbhcqhKsGIREXqEogg5-2FF2xrrlyQ2xbVClhmjLJ5Ocpp3SHe-2FT-2FcBbKuJD6MtNOtVQMbmzQZZOaR4hTExXzGORH9X36O8OfYOYPd4qOunoph-2FgECNR1trx-2B79ycbB-2FEVEJ5USmWGJ0IxpGtsMpUNmcRscnoVHMCU30mzypPLlJ49vzYfLJFVoQ-3D-3D">https://www.fhsualumni.com</a>, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>, or call 785-628-4430.

FHSU announces new members to Alumni Association Board

Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Mon Jul 18 2022 09:42:11 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Brady Rose"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/9GEgSEct-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/9GEgSEct-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/9GEgSEct-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Brady Rose" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Brady Rose

GREAT BEND - Barton Community College (BCC) has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the spring semester of 2022.

Graduates include the following regional residents:&nbsp;

Albert Breanna Coston, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bazine Lucas Hertel, A.A.S. and OSHA Safety and Health Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Burdett Ashlee, Miller, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Claflin Connor&nbsp;Creech, Welding Technology Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellinwood John Billinger, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Michael Bitter, Welding Technology Certificate Courtney Cook, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Cotterill, Practical Nursing Certificate Erica Gross, Practical Nursing Certificate Cameron Stevenson, Natural Gas Technician Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellsworth Tyler Armstrong, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Brandon Bourne, Welding Technology Certificate Dustin Brown, Welding Technology Certificate Kenneth Cox, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Alex Cullumber, Welding Technology Certificate Hellen Culpepper, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keenan Davenport, Welding Technology Certificate Charles Deffebaugh, Welding Technology Certificate Joseph Edminster, Welding Technology Certificate Larry Ellis, Welding Technology Certificate Ian Evans, Welding Technology Certificate Dale Flaxbeard, Welding Technology Certificate Zachary Garrett, Welding Technology Certificate Bryan Harbert, Welding Technology Certificate Maliek Hodges, Welding Technology Certificate Shon Jackson, Welding Technology Certificate Michael Jaimez, Welding Technology Certificate Andre Johnson, Welding Technology Certificate Jantz Johnson-Viera, Welding Technology Certificate Roger Kelly, Welding Technology Certificate Mikhail Lahey, Welding Technology Certificate Timothy Leger, Welding Technology Certificate Kyler Milbrandt, Welding Technology Certificate Antonio Ponce, Welding Technology Certificate Jenna Sinnott, Practical Nursing Certificate Joseph Sponaugle, Welding Technology Certificate Emmerae Svaty, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Manuel Ayala, Plumbing Certificate Pamela Bujanda, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kammi Burroughs, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sage Cauley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Devin Christiansen, Welding Technology Certificate Addison Crites, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stacy Davis, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shelbie Deason, Practical Nursing Certificate Brook Degenhardt, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carly Dreiling, Practical Nursing Certificate Azha Elliott, Practical Nursing Certificate Jessica Espino, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Medical Assistant Tianna Farris, Practical Nursing Certificate Mara Fletchall, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Israel Franco, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Karla Garcia, Welding Technology Certificate Joseph Givens, Practical Nursing Certificate Aleasha Gouge, A.A.S. Dylan Graham, Crop Protection Certificate Jaci Guthrie, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ivan Gutierrez, Plumbing Certificate Chad Hallmark, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Natural Gas Technician Certificate Wittney Hammeke, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Breana Hearn, Practical Nursing Certificate Alex Hernandez, Welding Technology Certificate Markie Hestand, Practical Nursing Certificate Braeden Hopkins, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keely Ireland, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Darian Knox, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Teegan Krol, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julia Lake, Practical Nursing Certificate Sara Macias, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Colter Maldonado, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Marvin, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Richard Mason, Scales Technician Certificate Ashley Mathias, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sara Mayta, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aiden Miller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Fabian Montes, Plumbing Certificate Liliana Montes, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Amanda Neeley, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Damarys Nieto, Practical Nursing Certificate Ryan Ochoa, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nautika Richards, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Giselle Sanchez, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jesus Sanchez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylee Sandy, Practical Nursing Certificate Kirsten Schilowsky, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Reagan Schridde, Practical Nursing Certificate Sayra Solis, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Mandee Solko, Practical Nursing Certificate Taylor Urban, Practical Nursing Certificate Braulio Vargas, Practical Nursing Certificate Brooke Vratil, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Melissa Willard, Medical Coding Certificate Cedric Williams, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays Corey Hale, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Maigen Jay, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Haleigh Spray, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cheyenne Rhoades, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hill City Katlynn Mauck, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Drake Stephen, Practical Nursing Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoisington Jadynn Andereck, Welding Technology Certificate Jacquelyn Armstrong, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sarah Bray, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Quincy Cross, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sheyanne Drylie, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Chandra Ehler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Janai Jacobs, Practical Nursing Certificate Jennah Jeffrey, Practical Nursing Certificate Cassie Morales, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lorelee Patterson, Practical Nursing Certificate Dayne Yott, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kensington Brennan Kirchhoff, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kirwin Brittany Atchison, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

La Crosse Kaden Depperschmidt, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cheyenne Sheffer, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Larned Terry Adams, Welding Technology Certificate Katherine Alnor, Practical Nursing Certificate Roy Arnold, Welding Technology Certificate Skyler Brook, Welding Technology Certificate Madalyne Casey, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lydia Duft, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Seth Duque, Welding Technology Certificate Amber Hewson, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dallas Jones, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Thomas LeGrand, Welding Technology Certificate Jessica Linarez, Practical Nursing Certificate Richard Manion, Welding Technology Certificate Dallas Mcclellan, Welding Technology Certificate Jared Mcfadden, Practical Nursing Certificate Juan Murillo, Welding Technology Certificate Matthew Neumann, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Savannah Racette, A.A.S. Jessica Runnels, Practical Nursing Certificate Zedrick&nbsp;Spencer, Welding Technology Certificate Corrie Upson, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ruthie Webster, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Grace Winget, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Lincoln Michael Holeman, A.A.S. Austin Raney, A.G.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ness City Jose Lopez, Plumbing Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Norton Brandon Quintana, A.A.S. and Networking Specialist Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Otis Cora Anderson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kendall Steinert, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Phillipsburg Evelyn Ebner, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Annette Kennedy, Dietary Manager Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russell Mallory Hudson, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Scott City Lyndi Rumford, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Smith Center Cheyenne Stice, Dietary Manager Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644361361884.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - Barton Community College (BCC) has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the spring semester of 2022.Graduates include the following regional residents:&nbsp;Albert Breanna Coston, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Bazine Lucas Hertel, A.A.S. and OSHA Safety and Health Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Burdett Ashlee, Miller, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;Claflin Connor&nbsp;Creech, Welding Technology Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Ellinwood John Billinger, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Michael Bitter, Welding Technology Certificate Courtney Cook, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Cotterill, Practical Nursing Certificate Erica Gross, Practical Nursing Certificate Cameron Stevenson, Natural Gas Technician Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Ellsworth Tyler Armstrong, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Brandon Bourne, Welding Technology Certificate Dustin Brown, Welding Technology Certificate Kenneth Cox, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Alex Cullumber, Welding Technology Certificate Hellen Culpepper, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keenan Davenport, Welding Technology Certificate Charles Deffebaugh, Welding Technology Certificate Joseph Edminster, Welding Technology Certificate Larry Ellis, Welding Technology Certificate Ian Evans, Welding Technology Certificate Dale Flaxbeard, Welding Technology Certificate Zachary Garrett, Welding Technology Certificate Bryan Harbert, Welding Technology Certificate Maliek Hodges, Welding Technology Certificate Shon Jackson, Welding Technology Certificate Michael Jaimez, Welding Technology Certificate Andre Johnson, Welding Technology Certificate Jantz Johnson-Viera, Welding Technology Certificate Roger Kelly, Welding Technology Certificate Mikhail Lahey, Welding Technology Certificate Timothy Leger, Welding Technology Certificate Kyler Milbrandt, Welding Technology Certificate Antonio Ponce, Welding Technology Certificate Jenna Sinnott, Practical Nursing Certificate Joseph Sponaugle, Welding Technology Certificate Emmerae Svaty, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend Manuel Ayala, Plumbing Certificate Pamela Bujanda, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kammi Burroughs, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sage Cauley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Devin Christiansen, Welding Technology Certificate Addison Crites, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stacy Davis, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shelbie Deason, Practical Nursing Certificate Brook Degenhardt, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carly Dreiling, Practical Nursing Certificate Azha Elliott, Practical Nursing Certificate Jessica Espino, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Medical Assistant Tianna Farris, Practical Nursing Certificate Mara Fletchall, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Israel Franco, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Karla Garcia, Welding Technology Certificate Joseph Givens, Practical Nursing Certificate Aleasha Gouge, A.A.S. Dylan Graham, Crop Protection Certificate Jaci Guthrie, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ivan Gutierrez, Plumbing Certificate Chad Hallmark, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Natural Gas Technician Certificate Wittney Hammeke, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Breana Hearn, Practical Nursing Certificate Alex Hernandez, Welding Technology Certificate Markie Hestand, Practical Nursing Certificate Braeden Hopkins, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keely Ireland, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Darian Knox, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Teegan Krol, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julia Lake, Practical Nursing Certificate Sara Macias, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Colter Maldonado, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Marvin, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Richard Mason, Scales Technician Certificate Ashley Mathias, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sara Mayta, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aiden Miller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Fabian Montes, Plumbing Certificate Liliana Montes, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Amanda Neeley, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Damarys Nieto, Practical Nursing Certificate Ryan Ochoa, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nautika Richards, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Giselle Sanchez, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jesus Sanchez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylee Sandy, Practical Nursing Certificate Kirsten Schilowsky, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Reagan Schridde, Practical Nursing Certificate Sayra Solis, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Mandee Solko, Practical Nursing Certificate Taylor Urban, Practical Nursing Certificate Braulio Vargas, Practical Nursing Certificate Brooke Vratil, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Melissa Willard, Medical Coding Certificate Cedric Williams, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Hays Corey Hale, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Maigen Jay, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Haleigh Spray, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cheyenne Rhoades, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;Hill City Katlynn Mauck, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Drake Stephen, Practical Nursing Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoisington Jadynn Andereck, Welding Technology Certificate Jacquelyn Armstrong, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sarah Bray, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Quincy Cross, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sheyanne Drylie, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Chandra Ehler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Janai Jacobs, Practical Nursing Certificate Jennah Jeffrey, Practical Nursing Certificate Cassie Morales, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lorelee Patterson, Practical Nursing Certificate Dayne Yott, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kensington Brennan Kirchhoff, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kirwin Brittany Atchison, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;La Crosse Kaden Depperschmidt, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cheyenne Sheffer, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;Larned Terry Adams, Welding Technology Certificate Katherine Alnor, Practical Nursing Certificate Roy Arnold, Welding Technology Certificate Skyler Brook, Welding Technology Certificate Madalyne Casey, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lydia Duft, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Seth Duque, Welding Technology Certificate Amber Hewson, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dallas Jones, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Thomas LeGrand, Welding Technology Certificate Jessica Linarez, Practical Nursing Certificate Richard Manion, Welding Technology Certificate Dallas Mcclellan, Welding Technology Certificate Jared Mcfadden, Practical Nursing Certificate Juan Murillo, Welding Technology Certificate Matthew Neumann, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Savannah Racette, A.A.S. Jessica Runnels, Practical Nursing Certificate Zedrick&nbsp;Spencer, Welding Technology Certificate Corrie Upson, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ruthie Webster, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Grace Winget, A.A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Lincoln Michael Holeman, A.A.S. Austin Raney, A.G.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Ness City Jose Lopez, Plumbing Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Norton Brandon Quintana, A.A.S. and Networking Specialist Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Otis Cora Anderson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kendall Steinert, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;Phillipsburg Evelyn Ebner, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Annette Kennedy, Dietary Manager Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell Mallory Hudson, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Scott City Lyndi Rumford, A.S.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Smith Center Cheyenne Stice, Dietary Manager Certificate&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays, area students among Barton CC spring 2022 grads

<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/2022/7/1658430011573.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

I guess you could say “The Heat is on!” &nbsp;But after all it is July and&nbsp;County Fairs&nbsp;are in&nbsp;full swing, so what else could we expect? &nbsp;During&nbsp;this hot stretch it is a good idea to check on elderly family&nbsp;members&nbsp;or neighbors who may have&nbsp;other&nbsp;health issues&nbsp;besides dealing with the heat.&nbsp;

As we&nbsp;look ahead to a forecast of&nbsp;triple digit&nbsp;temperatures&nbsp;it seems like the perfect time to remind everyone about the importance of staying hydrated.&nbsp;A good rule of thumb for the amount of water you&nbsp;need is to divide your body weight by two. The resulting number is the number of ounces of water you should be drinking under normal circumstances&nbsp;and more is needed as summer temperatures and humidity rise.&nbsp;So for an example, a 150-pound individual should&nbsp;have at least 75 ounces, but more during this heat wave.&nbsp;Sometimes we forget that 55-75 percent of our body’s weight is water; the brain is 70 percent water; blood is 82 percent water, and the lungs are nearly 90 percent water. Water is also responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells; cushions organs, tissue, bones and joints; removes&nbsp;waste; and regulates body temperature.

Exposure to the sun or getting sunburned&nbsp;will speed fluid loss, and so will drinking beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, which both act as diuretics. Fluid replacement is essential, but it is best to not wait until you are thirsty. Excessive water loss or dehydration can impair body function and lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can be life threatening.&nbsp;It is a&nbsp;good idea to become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion. They include: dizziness, weakness, feeling thirsty, uncoordinated or nauseated. Most people sweat a lot during heat exhaustion. The signs of a heat stroke are different. They include: a body temperature of 104 or above, confusion, staggering, possible fainting, either a rapid pulse or&nbsp;a slow weak pulse, and not sweating, despite the heat. It is important to get medical help right away if you suspect&nbsp;a heat stroke.

Cool water is recommended for&nbsp;the majority of fluid replacement because it is easily absorbed. Many foods&nbsp;also&nbsp;have a high&nbsp;water content and should be included in a healthy summer diet. Melons and most other fruits, along with tomatoes, vegetables, soups, smoothies, puddings and gelatin salads should not be overlooked. Sports beverages may be helpful for athletes who are exercising more than one hour and are in need of electrolytes and quick energy, but consider diluting&nbsp;them with water in order to reduce&nbsp;sugar consumption.&nbsp;

The bottom&nbsp;line on staying hydrated is to drink fluids before you become thirsty. As we age our ability&nbsp;to sense thirst declines, leaving older people unable to rely on their thirst to prompt them to drink enough fluids. Infants and small children also need to be monitored closely to assure that dehydration does not occur. Little ones lose more fluids because they have a greater proportion of skin surface in relation to their size. Offer water frequently, each time a child passes through the kitchen and before, during&nbsp;and after play.

Let’s hope that the heat breaks soon before the&nbsp;2022&nbsp;summer goes into the record books!

Donna Krug is the&nbsp;District Director and&nbsp;Family&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Consumer Science Agent with&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;–&nbsp;Cottonwood District. She may be reached at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. " />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. </figcaption>
 </figure>I guess you could say “The Heat is on!” &nbsp;But after all it is July and&nbsp;County Fairs&nbsp;are in&nbsp;full swing, so what else could we expect? &nbsp;During&nbsp;this hot stretch it is a good idea to check on elderly family&nbsp;members&nbsp;or neighbors who may have&nbsp;other&nbsp;health issues&nbsp;besides dealing with the heat.&nbsp;As we&nbsp;look ahead to a forecast of&nbsp;triple digit&nbsp;temperatures&nbsp;it seems like the perfect time to remind everyone about the importance of staying hydrated.&nbsp;A good rule of thumb for the amount of water you&nbsp;need is to divide your body weight by two. The resulting number is the number of ounces of water you should be drinking under normal circumstances&nbsp;and more is needed as summer temperatures and humidity rise.&nbsp;So for an example, a 150-pound individual should&nbsp;have at least 75 ounces, but more during this heat wave.&nbsp;Sometimes we forget that 55-75 percent of our body’s weight is water; the brain is 70 percent water; blood is 82 percent water, and the lungs are nearly 90 percent water. Water is also responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells; cushions organs, tissue, bones and joints; removes&nbsp;waste; and regulates body temperature.Exposure to the sun or getting sunburned&nbsp;will speed fluid loss, and so will drinking beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, which both act as diuretics. Fluid replacement is essential, but it is best to not wait until you are thirsty. Excessive water loss or dehydration can impair body function and lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can be life threatening.&nbsp;It is a&nbsp;good idea to become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion. They include: dizziness, weakness, feeling thirsty, uncoordinated or nauseated. Most people sweat a lot during heat exhaustion. The signs of a heat stroke are different. They include: a body temperature of 104 or above, confusion, staggering, possible fainting, either a rapid pulse or&nbsp;a slow weak pulse, and not sweating, despite the heat. It is important to get medical help right away if you suspect&nbsp;a heat stroke.Cool water is recommended for&nbsp;the majority of fluid replacement because it is easily absorbed. Many foods&nbsp;also&nbsp;have a high&nbsp;water content and should be included in a healthy summer diet. Melons and most other fruits, along with tomatoes, vegetables, soups, smoothies, puddings and gelatin salads should not be overlooked. Sports beverages may be helpful for athletes who are exercising more than one hour and are in need of electrolytes and quick energy, but consider diluting&nbsp;them with water in order to reduce&nbsp;sugar consumption.&nbsp;The bottom&nbsp;line on staying hydrated is to drink fluids before you become thirsty. As we age our ability&nbsp;to sense thirst declines, leaving older people unable to rely on their thirst to prompt them to drink enough fluids. Infants and small children also need to be monitored closely to assure that dehydration does not occur. Little ones lose more fluids because they have a greater proportion of skin surface in relation to their size. Offer water frequently, each time a child passes through the kitchen and before, during&nbsp;and after play.Let’s hope that the heat breaks soon before the&nbsp;2022&nbsp;summer goes into the record books!Donna Krug is the&nbsp;District Director and&nbsp;Family&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Consumer Science Agent with&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;–&nbsp;Cottonwood District. She may be reached at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Fluids important to manage heat, humidity safely

TREGO COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30 p.m. Thursday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford Explorer driven by&nbsp; Jeremy C. Brown, 36, Houston, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Collyer exit.&nbsp;

The SUV traveled into the north ditch. The driver overcorrected, crossed into the westbound lanes and traveled into the median. The SUV then rotated to the north and rolled.&nbsp;

EMS transported Brown to the Gove County Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30 p.m. Thursday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford Explorer driven by&nbsp; Jeremy C. Brown, 36, Houston, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Collyer exit.&nbsp;The SUV traveled into the north ditch. The driver overcorrected, crossed into the westbound lanes and traveled into the median. The SUV then rotated to the north and rolled.&nbsp;EMS transported Brown to the Gove County Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after SUV rolls into I-70 median

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a western Kansas man on child sex allegations.

Just after 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; Wednesday, police arrested 21-year-old Jessie Ivey of Scott City in the 1700 block of Wreath Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Police arrested him&nbsp;on a Sumner County warrant for rape and indecent liberties with a child. Ivey remains confined in the Riley County jail on a total bond of $100,000, according to online jail records.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a western Kansas man on child sex allegations.Just after 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; Wednesday, police arrested 21-year-old Jessie Ivey of Scott City in the 1700 block of Wreath Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Police arrested him&nbsp;on a Sumner County warrant for rape and indecent liberties with a child. Ivey remains confined in the Riley County jail on a total bond of $100,000, according to online jail records.

Scott City man jailed for alleged child sex crimes

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's aid to generate new leads in an unsolved fatal 2016 hit-and-run accident.

Between 8:30 and 10 p.m. Sunday, May 15, 2016, 22-year-old <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2016/05/23/dylan-ray-weiser/">Dylan Weiser</a> was struck by an unknown vehicle. The driver failed to render aid or notify first responders, the sheriff's office said in a news release Thursday. The incident occurred in the 700 block of 240th Avenue, 5 miles south of Hays— 240th becomes Main Street at city limits.

Weiser — a Thornton, Colo., resident formerly of La Crosse — was wearing a black T-shirt, khaki shorts and black tennis shoes at the time of the incident.

Tips can be submitted to the sheriff's office in person at the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center, 105 W. 12th, by phone at (785) 625-1040, or online at www.ellisco.net/sheriff (choose the "Crime Alert" option).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614390375120.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe Ellis County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's aid to generate new leads in an unsolved fatal 2016 hit-and-run accident.Between 8:30 and 10 p.m. Sunday, May 15, 2016, 22-year-old <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2016/05/23/dylan-ray-weiser/">Dylan Weiser</a> was struck by an unknown vehicle. The driver failed to render aid or notify first responders, the sheriff's office said in a news release Thursday. The incident occurred in the 700 block of 240th Avenue, 5 miles south of Hays— 240th becomes Main Street at city limits.Weiser — a Thornton, Colo., resident formerly of La Crosse — was wearing a black T-shirt, khaki shorts and black tennis shoes at the time of the incident.Tips can be submitted to the sheriff's office in person at the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center, 105 W. 12th, by phone at (785) 625-1040, or online at www.ellisco.net/sheriff (choose the "Crime Alert" option).

Ellis Co. sheriff seeks new leads in 2016 unsolved fatal hit and run

After a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms late Thursday night, oppressive heat and clear skies will return and linger through the weekend.

A high of 103 is expected Friday, jumping to a possible 108 on Saturday. The high Sunday is projected at 98, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

There is a 40 percent chance of&nbsp; showers or thunderstorms Sunday night, with a slight chance of rain also possible through at least Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658416044157.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms late Thursday night, oppressive heat and clear skies will return and linger through the weekend.A high of 103 is expected Friday, jumping to a possible 108 on Saturday. The high Sunday is projected at 98, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.There is a 40 percent chance of&nbsp; showers or thunderstorms Sunday night, with a slight chance of rain also possible through at least Wednesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The heat will rebuild on Thursday and Friday, with another peak in the heat expected Saturday afternoon. Triple digit temperatures will be common, with some record highs possible. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/JUE19fCPoi">pic.twitter.com/JUE19fCPoi</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1549990625352658944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Saturday's temperature expected to be near record levels

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

RUSSELL — A Russell couple has renovated a former downtown law office built in 1905 into an Airbnb.

Jon and Kim Birky bought the building at 620 N. Main in 2020. They renovated half of the 4,000-square-foot upper level into their private residence. The other half is now The Lawft, a four-bedroom, four-bath Airbnb. 

The couple gutted the upper floor of the building, removing 29 tons of material from the building during the renovation.

The couple, who also owns the Klema Apple Market, said they were empty nesters and wanted to downsize. The other half of the building is bringing in revenue.

Other amenities in the rental include a small kitchen, washer and dryer gas fireplace, and small deck. Each bedroom has its own TV.

The couple tried to keep some of the historical aspects of the building. They removed the plaster on the walls to expose the original limestone bricks. The transom doors were refurbished.

A window from the original law firm hangs as a decoration in the living area, which also features a conference table and chairs from the law office.

One wall of the spacious living room is graced with floor-to-ceiling, custom-made, built-in bookshelves that are full of old law books.

The rental has only been listed with Airbnb since June. A medical student assigned to the hospital stayed in the rental that month, and the couple has more bookings this month.

Russell has two other lofts Airbnbs downtown, the Historical Waudby Apartment and the Boho Bungalow.

Jon Birky said the downtown location is right across the street from the historic Dream Theatre. Several bars/restaurants and a coffee shop are within easy walking distance.

"It's a great opportunity to improve downtown Russell and update it," he said of the loft. "We are one of two buildings that are totally up to code right now with a sprinkler system and everything newly remodeled upstairs."

He said he thought other building owners will emulate the loft model.

Kim Birky said Russell is a convenient meeting place, easily accessible from Interstate 70, between Kansas City and Denver for some families. Another group booked the Airbnb instead of camping and took their boats out to Wilson Lake during the day.

"Also, if a large family comes back to Russell for a funeral or a wedding, this is a good option," Jon Birky said.

The Birkys are looking for tenants for the two storefronts on the lower level of the building, which could be used for office or retail space. The space still needs some remodeling, but Jon Birky said the couple is waiting to see what needs a new tenant might have.

The space rents for $150 per night Mondays through Thursdays and for $200 per night on weekends.&nbsp; Additional costs include a one-time cleaning fee, Airbnb service fee and tax.

The Lawft can be rented through Airbnb at <a href="https://abnb.me/QHN7BgW65qb" target="_blank">https://abnb.me/QHN7BgW65qb</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349072614.jpeg" alt="The Lawft Airbnb rental in Russell used to be a law office. The owners kept one of the original windows and law books from the building as part of the decor. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The Lawft Airbnb rental in Russell used to be a law office. The owners kept one of the original windows and law books from the building as part of the decor. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostRUSSELL — A Russell couple has renovated a former downtown law office built in 1905 into an Airbnb.Jon and Kim Birky bought the building at 620 N. Main in 2020. They renovated half of the 4,000-square-foot upper level into their private residence. The other half is now The Lawft, a four-bedroom, four-bath Airbnb. The couple gutted the upper floor of the building, removing 29 tons of material from the building during the renovation.The couple, who also owns the Klema Apple Market, said they were empty nesters and wanted to downsize. The other half of the building is bringing in revenue.Other amenities in the rental include a small kitchen, washer and dryer gas fireplace, and small deck. Each bedroom has its own TV.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349183249.jpeg" alt="The Lawft, 620 N. Main, Russell, is a four-bedroom, four-bath Airbnb, owned by Jon and Kim Birky. The rental opened in June. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The Lawft, 620 N. Main, Russell, is a four-bedroom, four-bath Airbnb, owned by Jon and Kim Birky. The rental opened in June. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The couple tried to keep some of the historical aspects of the building. They removed the plaster on the walls to expose the original limestone bricks. The transom doors were refurbished.A window from the original law firm hangs as a decoration in the living area, which also features a conference table and chairs from the law office.One wall of the spacious living room is graced with floor-to-ceiling, custom-made, built-in bookshelves that are full of old law books.The rental has only been listed with Airbnb since June. A medical student assigned to the hospital stayed in the rental that month, and the couple has more bookings this month. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349324829.jpeg" alt="The Birkys removed 29 tons of material from the 1905 building during the renovation, including the old plaster that revealed the original limestone brick. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The Birkys removed 29 tons of material from the 1905 building during the renovation, including the old plaster that revealed the original limestone brick. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Russell has two other lofts Airbnbs downtown, the Historical Waudby Apartment and the Boho Bungalow. Jon Birky said the downtown location is right across the street from the historic Dream Theatre. Several bars/restaurants and a coffee shop are within easy walking distance."It's a great opportunity to improve downtown Russell and update it," he said of the loft. "We are one of two buildings that are totally up to code right now with a sprinkler system and everything newly remodeled upstairs."He said he thought other building owners will emulate the loft model.Kim Birky said Russell is a convenient meeting place, easily accessible from Interstate 70, between Kansas City and Denver for some families. Another group booked the Airbnb instead of camping and took their boats out to Wilson Lake during the day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349477347.jpeg" alt="Owners Jon and Kim Birky live in the other half of the downtown Russell loft. They hope to renovate the lower level for retail or office space. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Owners Jon and Kim Birky live in the other half of the downtown Russell loft. They hope to renovate the lower level for retail or office space. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>"Also, if a large family comes back to Russell for a funeral or a wedding, this is a good option," Jon Birky said. The Birkys are looking for tenants for the two storefronts on the lower level of the building, which could be used for office or retail space. The space still needs some remodeling, but Jon Birky said the couple is waiting to see what needs a new tenant might have.The space rents for $150 per night Mondays through Thursdays and for $200 per night on weekends.&nbsp; Additional costs include a one-time cleaning fee, Airbnb service fee and tax. The Lawft can be rented through Airbnb at <a href="https://abnb.me/QHN7BgW65qb" target="_blank">https://abnb.me/QHN7BgW65qb</a>.

Renovated law firm opens as Lawft on Airbnb in downtown Russell

The Hays Public Library has filled two full-time positions. Jake Mishoulam is taking over the outreach coordinator position, and Jessica Shields is the new public services coordinator. Both started work at the library the week of July 11.&nbsp;

Mishoulam is originally from the central coast of California near Santa Barbara. He is a paleontologist who studied at South Dakota School of Mines and Fort Hays State University. He has been working for the Sternberg Museum, providing educational outreach.&nbsp;

On what excites him about working at the library, Mishoulam said, “I love sharing information with people, and watching them learn and their horizons&nbsp;grow. The library is a wonderful place full of opportunities to interact with people of all ages.”

Mishoulam will coordinate the library’s outreach services, including the bookmobile and partnerships with schools, elder care facilities and other community organizations.&nbsp;

Shields grew up in Dighton and has been living in Hays since 2012. She graduated from Fort Hays State University and received her&nbsp; master’s in library science from Emporia State.&nbsp;

Shields will be in charge of the volunteer program and working with the Friends of the Library. She also will assist in developing programs and events.

Shields says she’s excited about many aspects of working at the Hays Public Library. 

“I think I would have to say that getting to connect with the community is at the top of my list,” she said. “I have always been interested in libraries because of the impact that they have on people and the vast knowledge that is available through them. I am proud to be a part&nbsp;of it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349763545.jpeg" alt="Jessica Shields" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Shields</figcaption>
 </figure>HPLThe Hays Public Library has filled two full-time positions. Jake Mishoulam is taking over the outreach coordinator position, and Jessica Shields is the new public services coordinator. Both started work at the library the week of July 11.&nbsp;Mishoulam is originally from the central coast of California near Santa Barbara. He is a paleontologist who studied at South Dakota School of Mines and Fort Hays State University. He has been working for the Sternberg Museum, providing educational outreach.&nbsp;On what excites him about working at the library, Mishoulam said, “I love sharing information with people, and watching them learn and their horizons&nbsp;grow. The library is a wonderful place full of opportunities to interact with people of all ages.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349816924.png" alt="Jake Mishoulam" />
 <figcaption>Jake Mishoulam</figcaption>
 </figure>Mishoulam will coordinate the library’s outreach services, including the bookmobile and partnerships with schools, elder care facilities and other community organizations.&nbsp;Shields grew up in Dighton and has been living in Hays since 2012. She graduated from Fort Hays State University and received her&nbsp; master’s in library science from Emporia State.&nbsp;Shields will be in charge of the volunteer program and working with the Friends of the Library. She also will assist in developing programs and events.Shields says she’s excited about many aspects of working at the Hays Public Library. “I think I would have to say that getting to connect with the community is at the top of my list,” she said. “I have always been interested in libraries because of the impact that they have on people and the vast knowledge that is available through them. I am proud to be a part&nbsp;of it.”

Hays Public Library hires pair of new coordinators

PAWNEE COUNTY — Two Kansas men appeared in the Pawnee County District Court, Tuesday for a Preliminary Hearing on one count of Felony Theft of property worth between $1,500 and $25,000, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Ruben Lopez-Lupercio, 42, and Axel Elian Gomez-Saldana, 24, both of Larned, are accused of stealing eleven heifers. 

Evidence presented at the preliminary hearing indicated an investigation was opened after a State Cattle Brand Inspector recognized feedlot finished heifers attempting to be sold at the La Crosse sale barn on December 10, 2021.

The matter was then referred to the Attorney General’s Livestock/Brand investigation unit who determined some of the heifers were branded with a brand registered to a Pawnee County Feedlot. 

With the assistance of the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, it was later determined that Lopez-Lupercio and Gomez-Saldana were employed as cowboys at the feedlot near Pawnee Rock, Kansas. They were arrested without incident at the feedlot on January 6, 2022, after the feedlot ownership decided to press charges, according to McNett.&nbsp;

Following the hearing, the magistrate judge determined the State had presented sufficient evidence to support the charge and bound the pair over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for September 15, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658334775089.png" alt="Lopez-Lupercio-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lopez-Lupercio-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY — Two Kansas men appeared in the Pawnee County District Court, Tuesday for a Preliminary Hearing on one count of Felony Theft of property worth between $1,500 and $25,000, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.Ruben Lopez-Lupercio, 42, and Axel Elian Gomez-Saldana, 24, both of Larned, are accused of stealing eleven heifers. Evidence presented at the preliminary hearing indicated an investigation was opened after a State Cattle Brand Inspector recognized feedlot finished heifers attempting to be sold at the La Crosse sale barn on December 10, 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658334721691.png" alt="Gomez-Saldana-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Gomez-Saldana-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The matter was then referred to the Attorney General’s Livestock/Brand investigation unit who determined some of the heifers were branded with a brand registered to a Pawnee County Feedlot. With the assistance of the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, it was later determined that Lopez-Lupercio and Gomez-Saldana were employed as cowboys at the feedlot near Pawnee Rock, Kansas. They were arrested without incident at the feedlot on January 6, 2022, after the feedlot ownership decided to press charges, according to McNett.&nbsp;Following the hearing, the magistrate judge determined the State had presented sufficient evidence to support the charge and bound the pair over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for September 15, 2022.

Two cowboys accused of stealing heifers from Kansas feedlot

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Thu Jun 23 2022 15:45:48 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Brady Hunt Evans"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/Oyn11JDt-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/Oyn11JDt-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/Oyn11JDt-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Brady Hunt Evans" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Brady Hunt Evans

If you live in the Hays community or have recently visited, you are probably well aware of several recent construction projects on our beautiful campus, including the Center for Applied Technology, the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design, and the Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success.&nbsp;The opening of a new building on our campus gives us an opportunity to re-envision how a physical space can directly enhance teaching, learning, and student success.&nbsp;These new spaces were intentionally designed to meet our students’ evolving educational, social, physical space, and technology needs.

The summer meeting of our Alumni Board included a tour of our newer facilities. While touring Rarick Hall, our group bumped into Dr. Paul Adams, Dean of the College of Education. Impromptu, he was asked to discuss the reimagination of teacher education via the renovation.&nbsp;

The narrative that follows is based on Paul’s description of the reimagined teacher education spaces&nbsp;in&nbsp;Rarick Hall.&nbsp;

One of the things we wanted to do for a long time was to have a room that models the environment and furniture types and arrangements our future teachers would see in the classrooms where they will launch their careers. We wanted to create a state-of-the-practice teaching laboratory.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302025343.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>If you live in the Hays community or have recently visited, you are probably well aware of several recent construction projects on our beautiful campus, including the Center for Applied Technology, the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design, and the Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success.&nbsp;The opening of a new building on our campus gives us an opportunity to re-envision how a physical space can directly enhance teaching, learning, and student success.&nbsp;These new spaces were intentionally designed to meet our students’ evolving educational, social, physical space, and technology needs.The summer meeting of our Alumni Board included a tour of our newer facilities. While touring Rarick Hall, our group bumped into Dr. Paul Adams, Dean of the College of Education. Impromptu, he was asked to discuss the reimagination of teacher education via the renovation.&nbsp;The narrative that follows is based on Paul’s description of the reimagined teacher education spaces&nbsp;in&nbsp;Rarick Hall.&nbsp;One of the things we wanted to do for a long time was to have a room that models the environment and furniture types and arrangements our future teachers would see in the classrooms where they will launch their careers. We wanted to create a state-of-the-practice teaching laboratory.&nbsp;We gathered faculty members who&nbsp;had&nbsp;recent experience in school classrooms&nbsp;and asked them toenvision a space to meet the experiential learning needs of our students and keep them “ahead of the game.” We brought our students into the discussion by asking them what they thought would make this teaching laboratory an excellent resource for collaborative learning. The thoughtfulness behind this whole process, as described by Dean Adams, was very impressive.What we heard from our&nbsp;teacher education&nbsp;students is the importance they place on learning environments that promote&nbsp;close collaboration with their peers. The Teaching Laboratory space was designed with this in mind. Everything in the lab was built to provide a high level of flexibility and to enhance teaching and learning. The area includes, for example, a u-shaped table with&nbsp;movable&nbsp;chairs around it. There are rocking stools that can easily be moved around the room. There&nbsp;are modular tables with whiteboard&nbsp;surfaces that can be placed together like puzzle pieces&nbsp;allowing multiple configurations&nbsp;to support students working in small and&nbsp;large groups.Other&nbsp;tables in the room&nbsp;have&nbsp;whiteboard&nbsp;surfaces that&nbsp;students&nbsp;can&nbsp;gather around as they work.Another innovative space in Rarick Hall is the Tiger Stripes Lounge. It replaced the Instructional Resource Center (IRC). Previously, the IRC covered most of the central portion of the 2nd floor of Rarick Hall and was a repository for textbooks, teaching materials, and anything one might need to borrow for a classroom. With a wealth of online resources preferred and readily available, this space reflects how students now use learning resources and technology. We’ve also installed a 75-inch screen projection Smart TV that students can log into that includes a touch screen to facilitate collaborative work. Users can also meet via Zoom.Of course, we haven’t forgotten some of the basics. We still have paper cutters, colored paperrolls for bulletin board construction, a laminator, and die cutters. We will install even more&nbsp;technology soon. Students asked us to keep a collection of books in the lounge, specifically&nbsp;trade&nbsp;books for future elementary school teachers to use in their coursework. We built a beautiful bookcase and will soon add a collection of Caldecott and Newbery Award-winning books.Adjacent to the Tiger Stripes Lounge is a great place for aspiring teachers to get together: a conference room that can also double as a quiet study space. “This is one of the things we didn’t have before, a space like this one that our students designed. We feel this is very important,” said Adams.Our tour of Rarick Hall then took us to the first floor and another reimagined space. Before the building was renovated, students didn’t really have a place to get together right before or between classes to prepare for a team presentation or read and do homework. So, one of the ideas was to turn the large and soon-to-be-vacated “Foundry” space into something useful. Today, the Foundry is a well-lit and open gathering space for all students, not just College of Education students. The area includes small meeting rooms with smart TVs, rolling whiteboards, free-standing tables, restaurant-style booths, and vending machines.&nbsp;Outside the Foundry space, we’ve installed picnic tables, outlets for various devices, and of course, Wi-Fi reception. And we’ve installed landscaping that creates a beautiful open-air setting for community gatherings, quiet study&nbsp;or just relaxing between classes.The intentionality built into the Rarick Hall renovation is also apparent in the smallest details. Additional benches and furniture create nooks for students are new features on some floors. We’ve also installed more glass boards for students to brainstorm, solve problems, or doodle. Faculty can also use this space for small group work during class.&nbsp;So, when you come to Rarick Hall, take a moment and wander a bit. I think, like me, you will marvel at the remarkable transformation of this facility.&nbsp;

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