Editor's Note: Cole Reif spent nine years broadcasting Hoisington football games with Dr. Blake Herres. Some opinions are added to the story.

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

There are many hard-working, generous individuals throughout our
community. These men and women donate their time, give financially and try to
make the area around them better. With all those outstanding citizens in mind,
there are very few that better embodied the definition of a community servant
and supporter more than Dr. Blake Herres. 
“He tried to always make some kid shine, whether they came off the bench or if
they were a starter,” said Gene Manweiler, long-time friend of Herres. “He
would always try to say something good about what he or she brought to the
game. He was always good about uplifting kids on the radio.” 
A life-long Hoisington resident, Herres began broadcasting Hoisington High
School football and basketball games on the radio in 2001. For more than 20
years, he was the welcoming, familiar voice on the airwaves Friday nights.
Herres passed away March 23 at the age of 70 from esophageal cancer, but he left an impact on several
lives and a community that will last many more lifetimes. 
“There were a lot of things that stood out about Blake,” said Joel Mason,
Hoisington High School principal. “Number one was his genuine passion and
concern for the town of Hoisington. Any time he talked, you always got that
impression of that genuine interest for our community, our school and our kids.”

Rooted in the northern Barton County town, Herres graduated from Hoisington
High School in 1970. Receiving education from Kansas State University and the
University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry, he married Julie
Stone in 1975. They moved to Hoisington in 1979 as Blake started his dental
practice. 
“He was down to business inside the office,” said Janet Jonas, who worked with Herres
for nearly 30 years at his dental office. “He treated patients like they were
his best friends. He was very honest with them and conservative. He gave them
options. Every day we tackled every job we had.” 
That sense of support to the community went beyond serving on the USD 431 Board
of Education for 12 years. Herres spent many years as a volunteer coach, making
sure he gave his daughters the best chance to succeed in athletics. 
“We really didn’t start interacting with each other until our daughters began
playing sports together in middle school,” said Manweiler. “Blake and I got together
and decided we’d start coaching the girls in basketball their 7th
grade summer. We did a lot of road trips. After the girls graduated, Blake and I
continued our road trips together because we enjoyed it so much.”

That community support was felt largely as Herres operated his dental practice
in Hoisington for more than 40 years until retiring in 2022. 
“In a town our size, we have relatively few businesses compared to a bigger
community,” said Mason. “Those businesses are hit up by anybody and everybody.
He was definitely asked to be a big booster for many of our activities here at
the school district.” 
Friday nights during the fall, you would see Herres walk into the high school
football stadium, make his way up to the press box, pull out his binoculars and
get settled in for another evening of Cardinal football. Blake was on the 100.7
FM broadcast for more than 230 football games, and hundreds more with the
Hoisington basketball programs. 
“When I see him interacting with kids, of all ages, at sporting events, those
kids treated Blake with more respect than they did with most adults,” said
Manweiler. “Those kids respected his opinion. When he would give them advice,
it was almost an honor to get advice from Blake Herres. That was so cool, and I
saw that all my life.”

Listen below to audio clips over the years from Herres on the radio.

Herres would frequent as many Cardinal sporting events as possible from middle
school to high school softball, volleyball, baseball or football. 
“He always had a positive spin, even when things weren’t going well,” said
Mason. “It was always refreshing seeing him at all of the events.” 
“He cared about his patients a lot,” said Jonas. “He was a great dentist and a
great man. I appreciate everything he did for me.” 
After each broadcast, Blake would lean in with a smirk and give me (Cole Reif) a firm
handshake. I would tell him "nice job, you sounded good." He would
respond with “I’m just riding your coattails.” As a mere broadcaster, I rarely
disagree with a doctor, but Blake was wrong. Myself, and the community that knew Blake, were riding his coattails…and it was a hell of a ride.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680207239494.jpeg" alt="Dr. Blake Herres spent more than 20 years broadcasting Hoisington High School games on the radio." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Blake Herres spent more than 20 years broadcasting Hoisington High School games on the radio.</figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's Note: Cole Reif spent nine years broadcasting Hoisington football games with Dr. Blake Herres. Some opinions are added to the story.By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThere are many hard-working, generous individuals throughout our
community. These men and women donate their time, give financially and try to
make the area around them better. With all those outstanding citizens in mind,
there are very few that better embodied the definition of a community servant
and supporter more than Dr. Blake Herres. 
“He tried to always make some kid shine, whether they came off the bench or if
they were a starter,” said Gene Manweiler, long-time friend of Herres. “He
would always try to say something good about what he or she brought to the
game. He was always good about uplifting kids on the radio.” 
A life-long Hoisington resident, Herres began broadcasting Hoisington High
School football and basketball games on the radio in 2001. For more than 20
years, he was the welcoming, familiar voice on the airwaves Friday nights.
Herres passed away March 23 at the age of 70 from esophageal cancer, but he left an impact on several
lives and a community that will last many more lifetimes. 
“There were a lot of things that stood out about Blake,” said Joel Mason,
Hoisington High School principal. “Number one was his genuine passion and
concern for the town of Hoisington. Any time he talked, you always got that
impression of that genuine interest for our community, our school and our kids.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680207389903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rooted in the northern Barton County town, Herres graduated from Hoisington
High School in 1970. Receiving education from Kansas State University and the
University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry, he married Julie
Stone in 1975. They moved to Hoisington in 1979 as Blake started his dental
practice. 
“He was down to business inside the office,” said Janet Jonas, who worked with Herres
for nearly 30 years at his dental office. “He treated patients like they were
his best friends. He was very honest with them and conservative. He gave them
options. Every day we tackled every job we had.” 
That sense of support to the community went beyond serving on the USD 431 Board
of Education for 12 years. Herres spent many years as a volunteer coach, making
sure he gave his daughters the best chance to succeed in athletics. 
“We really didn’t start interacting with each other until our daughters began
playing sports together in middle school,” said Manweiler. “Blake and I got together
and decided we’d start coaching the girls in basketball their 7th
grade summer. We did a lot of road trips. After the girls graduated, Blake and I
continued our road trips together because we enjoyed it so much.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680207455068.jpeg" alt="photo: Dr. Dan Witt" />
 <figcaption>photo: Dr. Dan Witt</figcaption>
 </figure>That community support was felt largely as Herres operated his dental practice
in Hoisington for more than 40 years until retiring in 2022. 
“In a town our size, we have relatively few businesses compared to a bigger
community,” said Mason. “Those businesses are hit up by anybody and everybody.
He was definitely asked to be a big booster for many of our activities here at
the school district.” 
Friday nights during the fall, you would see Herres walk into the high school
football stadium, make his way up to the press box, pull out his binoculars and
get settled in for another evening of Cardinal football. Blake was on the 100.7
FM broadcast for more than 230 football games, and hundreds more with the
Hoisington basketball programs. 
“When I see him interacting with kids, of all ages, at sporting events, those
kids treated Blake with more respect than they did with most adults,” said
Manweiler. “Those kids respected his opinion. When he would give them advice,
it was almost an honor to get advice from Blake Herres. That was so cool, and I
saw that all my life.”Listen below to audio clips over the years from Herres on the radio.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/rkgqRL4j-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Audio from Dr. Blake Herres over the years" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Herres would frequent as many Cardinal sporting events as possible from middle
school to high school softball, volleyball, baseball or football. 
“He always had a positive spin, even when things weren’t going well,” said
Mason. “It was always refreshing seeing him at all of the events.” 
“He cared about his patients a lot,” said Jonas. “He was a great dentist and a
great man. I appreciate everything he did for me.” 
After each broadcast, Blake would lean in with a smirk and give me (Cole Reif) a firm
handshake. I would tell him "nice job, you sounded good." He would
respond with “I’m just riding your coattails.” As a mere broadcaster, I rarely
disagree with a doctor, but Blake was wrong. Myself, and the community that knew Blake, were riding his coattails…and it was a hell of a ride.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Community is everything: The supportive ‘voice’ of Hoisington

The Wonder Women League of Ellis County has awarded three $1,000 scholarships to two Hays High School and one Ellis High School student for the 2023-24 school year. Ellis County female students who were planning to attend Fort Hays State University, NCK Tech or Hays Academy of Hair Design full-time in 2023-24 could apply for the scholarships.

This year’s winners are Halle Lohmeyer, senior at Hays High School; Haley Cranwell, senior at Ellis High School; and Kaley Rajewski, senior at Hays High School.

During high school, Lohmeyer sought to inspire younger girls on her school’s wrestling team. She will be following in her mother’s footsteps and studying elementary education at Fort Hays State University. She said in her essay she hopes to inspire young people to be great. Lohmeyer has served on the HHS student council, is a National Honor Society member and volunteered for Jana’s Campaign among other service and school activities.

Cranwell is studying automotive technology while also finishing her senior year at Ellis High School. Upon graduation from EHS, she will have one year completed in the automotive program at NCK Tech. Upon completion of that program, she hopes to study economics and environmental science at Fort Hays State University. Cranwell said she hopes to use her knowledge to make vehicles more environmentally friendly.

Rajewski plans to attend Fort Hays State University in the fall and major in psychology. She hopes to eventually earn her Ph.D. in psychology. Rajewski has been involved in a variety of activities during high school, some of which include competitive dance, Hays Community Theatre, debate, forensics, student council and National Honor Society.

The Wonder Women League is a group of women in Ellis County under the umbrella of the United Way of Ellis County. Its mission is to inspire and empower women to affect change in their community.

The Wonder Women League scholarship is one of several ongoing signature programs. Others include Matthew’s Gift and Project Suitcase. For more information or to donate to the Wonder Women League, you can visit <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league</a>.

News releaseThe Wonder Women League of Ellis County has awarded three $1,000 scholarships to two Hays High School and one Ellis High School student for the 2023-24 school year. Ellis County female students who were planning to attend Fort Hays State University, NCK Tech or Hays Academy of Hair Design full-time in 2023-24 could apply for the scholarships.This year’s winners are Halle Lohmeyer, senior at Hays High School; Haley Cranwell, senior at Ellis High School; and Kaley Rajewski, senior at Hays High School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680270934456.jpeg" alt="Halle Lohmeyer" />
 <figcaption>Halle Lohmeyer</figcaption>
 </figure>During high school, Lohmeyer sought to inspire younger girls on her school’s wrestling team. She will be following in her mother’s footsteps and studying elementary education at Fort Hays State University. She said in her essay she hopes to inspire young people to be great. Lohmeyer has served on the HHS student council, is a National Honor Society member and volunteered for Jana’s Campaign among other service and school activities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680270968555.jpeg" alt="Haley Cranwell" />
 <figcaption>Haley Cranwell</figcaption>
 </figure>Cranwell is studying automotive technology while also finishing her senior year at Ellis High School. Upon graduation from EHS, she will have one year completed in the automotive program at NCK Tech. Upon completion of that program, she hopes to study economics and environmental science at Fort Hays State University. Cranwell said she hopes to use her knowledge to make vehicles more environmentally friendly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680271004704.jpeg" alt="Kaley Rajewski" />
 <figcaption>Kaley Rajewski</figcaption>
 </figure>Rajewski plans to attend Fort Hays State University in the fall and major in psychology. She hopes to eventually earn her Ph.D. in psychology. Rajewski has been involved in a variety of activities during high school, some of which include competitive dance, Hays Community Theatre, debate, forensics, student council and National Honor Society.The Wonder Women League is a group of women in Ellis County under the umbrella of the United Way of Ellis County. Its mission is to inspire and empower women to affect change in their community.The Wonder Women League scholarship is one of several ongoing signature programs. Others include Matthew’s Gift and Project Suitcase. For more information or to donate to the Wonder Women League, you can visit <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league</a>.

Wonder Women League awards three $1,000 scholarships

TOPEKA — The winners of last weekend’s Kansas KidWind State Finals are now gearing up for their next challenge – the National KidWind Challenge scheduled for May 14-17 in Boulder, Colo.&nbsp; To qualify for the national competition, teams first had to capture one of the top two spots in their age division during regional competitions, then win one of the top three spots in their age group at the State Finals.

The winning teams representing Kansas are:

1st&nbsp;place - Hutch STEM Blue – Allen STEM Magnet School – USD 308&nbsp; Coaches: Tara Urban and Jes Brockleman&nbsp; Team Members: Dalton Urban, Liam Clark, Zoey Schletzbaum, and Gatlin Leopp

2nd&nbsp;place – W2&nbsp;(“W squared”) – Oakley School District, USD 274&nbsp; Coach: Morgan Berkgren&nbsp; Team Members: Maddox Hubert, Gage Eberle, Jayde Kahle, Kylee Hodges, Emma Mandeville, and Zoe Meyers

3rd&nbsp;place – Los Girasoles Ventosos (The Windy Sunflowers) – Beloit Jr/Sr High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coach: Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Tripp Stillwell, Brylee LePon, and Rilee Lundine

1st&nbsp;place – The Goblins – Beloit High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coaches: Grant Deneke and Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Jayce Offutt, Jackson Cheney, Luke Cheney, Charlie Burke, and Jayc Darnall

2nd&nbsp;place – Cru Winds – Buhler High School, USD 313&nbsp; Coaches: Curtis Morgan and James Gazaway&nbsp; Team Members: Andrew Morgan and Isaak Neighbor

3rd&nbsp;place – Burlington Wind Company – Burlington High School, USD 244&nbsp; Coaches: Bryan Bruening and Jan Martin&nbsp; Team Members: Logan Curten, Michael Ianacone, and Isaac Rinker

To prepare for competition in the KidWind Challenge, team members work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. At each level of competition (regional, state and national), turbines are put to the test in a 48" × 48" wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.5-5 m/s (meters per second). Scoring is based on turbine performance and efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process.

Last year, three Kansas teams earned honors at the National KidWind Challenge. Hutch STEM Blue from STEM Magnet School at Allen Elementary was named Elementary Division National Champions, Wind Chill from Dighton Middle School won the Innovator Award and Gerald La Turbina from Beloit Jr/Sr High School won the Judges Award.

KidWind is an Energy Education Event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The goal is to help students learn key concepts around science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. The KidWind program actively engages students. It teaches not only STEM skills, but also promotes teamwork, problem solving and public speaking.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zHbVXt8SXOo"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KCCTOPEKA — The winners of last weekend’s Kansas KidWind State Finals are now gearing up for their next challenge – the National KidWind Challenge scheduled for May 14-17 in Boulder, Colo.&nbsp; To qualify for the national competition, teams first had to capture one of the top two spots in their age division during regional competitions, then win one of the top three spots in their age group at the State Finals.The winning teams representing Kansas are:<h2>4th- 8th&nbsp;Grade Division</h2>1st&nbsp;place - Hutch STEM Blue – Allen STEM Magnet School – USD 308&nbsp; Coaches: Tara Urban and Jes Brockleman&nbsp; Team Members: Dalton Urban, Liam Clark, Zoey Schletzbaum, and Gatlin Leopp2nd&nbsp;place – W2&nbsp;(“W squared”) – Oakley School District, USD 274&nbsp; Coach: Morgan Berkgren&nbsp; Team Members: Maddox Hubert, Gage Eberle, Jayde Kahle, Kylee Hodges, Emma Mandeville, and Zoe Meyers3rd&nbsp;place – Los Girasoles Ventosos (The Windy Sunflowers) – Beloit Jr/Sr High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coach: Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Tripp Stillwell, Brylee LePon, and Rilee Lundine<h2>9th-12th Grade Division</h2>1st&nbsp;place – The Goblins – Beloit High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coaches: Grant Deneke and Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Jayce Offutt, Jackson Cheney, Luke Cheney, Charlie Burke, and Jayc Darnall2nd&nbsp;place – Cru Winds – Buhler High School, USD 313&nbsp; Coaches: Curtis Morgan and James Gazaway&nbsp; Team Members: Andrew Morgan and Isaak Neighbor3rd&nbsp;place – Burlington Wind Company – Burlington High School, USD 244&nbsp; Coaches: Bryan Bruening and Jan Martin&nbsp; Team Members: Logan Curten, Michael Ianacone, and Isaac RinkerTo prepare for competition in the KidWind Challenge, team members work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. At each level of competition (regional, state and national), turbines are put to the test in a 48" × 48" wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.5-5 m/s (meters per second). Scoring is based on turbine performance and efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process.Last year, three Kansas teams earned honors at the National KidWind Challenge. Hutch STEM Blue from STEM Magnet School at Allen Elementary was named Elementary Division National Champions, Wind Chill from Dighton Middle School won the Innovator Award and Gerald La Turbina from Beloit Jr/Sr High School won the Judges Award.KidWind is an Energy Education Event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The goal is to help students learn key concepts around science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. The KidWind program actively engages students. It teaches not only STEM skills, but also promotes teamwork, problem solving and public speaking.

🎥 NW Kansas team advances to KidWind nationals

GOODLAND — Northwest Kansas Technical College will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at 11:30 am MT on Tuesday at 1205 E. 13th, Goodland. When complete, the new 5,000-square-foot expansion of the facility will provide students with comprehensive training in agricultural and over-the-road dynamometers. The public is invited to attend.

Ben Schears, college president, said the expansion project will “help address critical regional workforce and economic development needs in northwest Kansas”.&nbsp;

Since 2010, the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at Northwest Tech has placed 97 percent of its graduates directly out of school. A large part of this tremendous success is due to the program’s partnerships with regional businesses that help shape the coursework for the modern industry. This project will provide improved education and training of students to meet job demands of local and regional employers.&nbsp;

Diesel Instructor Jason Cook, added, “This project will give students access to state-of-the-art equipment and the opportunity to work towards certification to work on commercial diesel trucks, setting up our students for career success.”

The source of the project’s funding is provided by the U.S. Economic Development Agency.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680037568330.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northwest TechGOODLAND — Northwest Kansas Technical College will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at 11:30 am MT on Tuesday at 1205 E. 13th, Goodland. When complete, the new 5,000-square-foot expansion of the facility will provide students with comprehensive training in agricultural and over-the-road dynamometers. The public is invited to attend.Ben Schears, college president, said the expansion project will “help address critical regional workforce and economic development needs in northwest Kansas”.&nbsp;Since 2010, the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at Northwest Tech has placed 97 percent of its graduates directly out of school. A large part of this tremendous success is due to the program’s partnerships with regional businesses that help shape the coursework for the modern industry. This project will provide improved education and training of students to meet job demands of local and regional employers.&nbsp;Diesel Instructor Jason Cook, added, “This project will give students access to state-of-the-art equipment and the opportunity to work towards certification to work on commercial diesel trucks, setting up our students for career success.”The source of the project’s funding is provided by the U.S. Economic Development Agency.&nbsp;

Groundbreaking for Northwest Tech's diesel tech expansion set

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680291615651.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

By Laah Tucker Special to the Hays Post

NATOMA — Natoma Lions Club continues to serve with a myriad of projects throughout the year with an emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief and other projects, nationally and locally.

Following the devastating flood and Four County wildfires in 2021, the club members provided financial assistance and gave hundreds of hours in labor throughout the months that followed into 2022.

The Natoma Lions Club was joined by the American Legion Post 109 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in their annual pancake supper to honor the family in remembrance of former Lions Club member and veteran David George.

Additional volunteers came alongside in the joint effort from as far as Nebraska and Arkansas. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others.

The Saturday event raised funding for future projects including the community calendar. Midwest Energy announced a grant donation to the three organizations for their various projects, including the Lions Club community calendar.

Natoma residents may choose to have their families’ birthdays and anniversaries listed; Natoma USD 399 listings of school activities for the entire year; Natoma community’s celebrations and meetings also are listed. The calendar is a vital asset in connecting the hearts and minds of Natoma residents.

For information, contact Shawna Dunlap at 785-885-4478. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680212243808.jpeg" alt="Lions Club members were joined by the American Legion Post 109 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in cooking and serving pancakes on March 25. Volunteers (L-R) were Sonya Robison, Shawna Dunlap, Sharon MacConnell, Corinne Masters, Terry Tucker, Laah Tucker, Linda Crawford, Cindy Elliott, Beverly Hachmeister; Paula Bitter with Katelyn, Maddox, Matt, and Natasha Mondero; William Workman, Mary Wise, Al Boedeker, Marge Kertz, David Kertz, and Gail Griffin.&nbsp; Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Lions Club members were joined by the American Legion Post 109 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in cooking and serving pancakes on March 25. Volunteers (L-R) were Sonya Robison, Shawna Dunlap, Sharon MacConnell, Corinne Masters, Terry Tucker, Laah Tucker, Linda Crawford, Cindy Elliott, Beverly Hachmeister; Paula Bitter with Katelyn, Maddox, Matt, and Natasha Mondero; William Workman, Mary Wise, Al Boedeker, Marge Kertz, David Kertz, and Gail Griffin.&nbsp; Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Laah Tucker Special to the Hays PostNATOMA — Natoma Lions Club continues to serve with a myriad of projects throughout the year with an emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief and other projects, nationally and locally.Following the devastating flood and Four County wildfires in 2021, the club members provided financial assistance and gave hundreds of hours in labor throughout the months that followed into 2022.The Natoma Lions Club was joined by the American Legion Post 109 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in their annual pancake supper to honor the family in remembrance of former Lions Club member and veteran David George.Additional volunteers came alongside in the joint effort from as far as Nebraska and Arkansas. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others.The Saturday event raised funding for future projects including the community calendar. Midwest Energy announced a grant donation to the three organizations for their various projects, including the Lions Club community calendar.Natoma residents may choose to have their families’ birthdays and anniversaries listed; Natoma USD 399 listings of school activities for the entire year; Natoma community’s celebrations and meetings also are listed. The calendar is a vital asset in connecting the hearts and minds of Natoma residents.For information, contact Shawna Dunlap at 785-885-4478.

Natoma Lions joint pancake supper with American Legion, Auxiliary 

Wheat farmers are, by nature, optimistic, but that optimism is starting to wane in southwest Kansas, where much of the wheat that was drilled last fall has yet to emerge.

Only 19% of the Kansas wheat crop is currently rated in good to excellent condition, with another 52% rated poor to very poor, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. According to the March 27 report, 77% of subsoil moisture supplies are rated short to very short.

“We’re eating through subsoil moisture,” said Tyler Ediger who farms near Meade, Kansas. “We need a slow inch to inch and a half of moisture.”

Average annual precipitation for the area is 23 inches, but over the past year, they’ve received roughly half that.

Still, Ediger says they’re better off than most in the area, having received a half inch a couple weeks ago. Their fields have a stand, so they’re not blowing yet, but winds have been strong and sustained for much of the area.

North of Lakin in Kearny County, Gary Millershaski’s fields aren’t faring as well. An area that typically gets 18.8” of annual precipitation, they’ve only received 8.6” over the past 365 days. While last year’s crop was also raised in drought conditions, it had the benefit of some subsoil moisture, which has all but been depleted by now. Even the residue left from last year’s crop has been reduced by wind and drought.

“We’re totally out of residue,” Millershaski said. “There’s nothing out there.”

He said insurance adjusters will be in the area over the next couple weeks. Many of the fields that haven’t even emerged will be adjusted out, giving farmers like Millershaski few options for ways to protect the blowing soil.

“I’m not going to chase another crop in dry soil,” he said. “Right now, it’s all about getting by and spending the least amount possible.”

In Sheridan County, Brett Oelke’s fields are surviving on half their average precipitation over the past two years as well.

“We’re pretty fortunate right now,” he said, because the moisture on this wheat crop has come with a timely three-quarters of an inch of rain in October when it was drilled and another inch and a half of moisture from snow since January.

Oelke’s moisture probe proved that even though his area has gotten some timely moisture, the crop is far from trouble. Reaching only two feet down, he said last year’s subsoil moisture was four feet.

“We’re 22 to 24 inches behind over the past few years,” he said.

In the sandy soils of Barber County, farmers are also dealing with less than half their average moisture.

“We need a rain really bad — and soon,” Chris Boyd said.

The wheat plants are small and don’t have many tillers. Fields in the Isabel area have received only one inch of rain total since the crop was planted.

In addition to fields that have been blown out completely from strong winds, they are also dealing with winter grain mites and army cut worms, which will limit yield potential. These pests can be controlled by applying an insecticide or pesticide, an added expense for a crop without a lot of potential.

“We were blessed with a nice harvest last year, but that crop used all of the subsoil moisture,” Boyd said. “With virtually no moisture on this current crop and nothing in the forecast, producers are faced with difficult decisions on how many more inputs — such as insecticide for grain mites — to invest on a potential crop failure.”

Rain is critical right now as temperatures begin to warm up and the wheat crop comes out of dormancy.

“We’ll take whatever moisture we can get,” said Millershaski.

With hit and miss showers mostly avoiding so﻿uthwest Kansas this past week and few scattered showers forecast in the next 10 days, farmers remain hopeful for additional timely rains.

“We’ll stay optimistic,” Ediger said.

Written by Marsha Boswell, Kansas Wheat

The wheat looks tough. Some looks decent, but a lot of it is spotty. Linin said they've received&nbsp;31” of snow, but it came a little at a time, so it didn’t do much to improve the subsoil moisture. It’s still really dry in the area. He said they're wondering if their wheat is going to make it or not, noting that they may go with another crop this spring.

The wheat planted into fallow ground has a decent stand, but wheat planted into failed corn where there is a lot of residue has a marginal stand. About half of the wheat in the area is still emerging because of the dry conditions last fall. Because of the heavier clay soils in the area, soil samples show that there are not a lot of nutrient requirements because of failed crops last fall, and only about half of usual nitrogen rates need to be applied. Over the past two weeks, Tanner reports he has been banding fertilizer on. Because of the cold temperatures in the area, the wheat is just starting to green up, so producers are still waiting to see what it will look like coming out of dormancy.

There are a few summer fallow acres that look decent and some wheat behind corn that looks ok. Wheat behind soybeans looks really rough. They are thinking about having an adjuster come out to look at some of their wheat.

The area is pretty dry, but Schemm said they were blessed with some snow that equated to 50 to 60 hundredths of moisture. They do see some potential in the crop, but it has been cold. The wheat took some hits of cold with no snow cover, so there may be some freeze damage.

Crop adjusters are coming out next week. Millershaski estimates that two thirds of his wheat will be abandoned, but he can’t plant a spring crop because there is no subsoil moisture. There’s very little residue left and the fields are blowing.

Suppes reported that one quarter of the wheat is not up yet and will be turned in to adjusters. He did topdress, but overall, this is a worse crop than last year.

Keesling reported they&nbsp;have an adjuster coming out to look at one third of their wheat. The conditions are not good. He said they've only received 1/2" of moisture since January 1 and 1/10" in March. Things are tough. With the extremely sandy soils, there’s going to be a lot of abandonment. Wheat is blowing out.

Wheat stands are a bit patchy, but it’s starting to green up nicely. A lot of fertilizer top dressing is going on in the area, and producers have pulled cattle off. They are dry compared to normal, but are fortunate to have received some moisture. They will need more rain as the wheat starts growing again this spring.

Wheat is greening up and looks good. They received some moisture three weeks ago. As you get to Pratt and west, the conditions really starts tapering off.

A lot of topdressing has been going on over the last two weeks. Wheat is responding and turning green. Many of the bare spots are filling in. Sawyer said, “If we get a little moisture, we will have a decent crop.” They’ve been fortunate because they’ve gotten some moisture since January.

Ponds in the area are dry, but the soil moisture is adequate. Wheat has greened up and looks good.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680272577248.jpeg" alt="Wind-swept wheat in Barber County, Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Wind-swept wheat in Barber County, Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>Wheat farmers are, by nature, optimistic, but that optimism is starting to wane in southwest Kansas, where much of the wheat that was drilled last fall has yet to emerge.Only 19% of the Kansas wheat crop is currently rated in good to excellent condition, with another 52% rated poor to very poor, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. According to the March 27 report, 77% of subsoil moisture supplies are rated short to very short.“We’re eating through subsoil moisture,” said Tyler Ediger who farms near Meade, Kansas. “We need a slow inch to inch and a half of moisture.”Average annual precipitation for the area is 23 inches, but over the past year, they’ve received roughly half that.Still, Ediger says they’re better off than most in the area, having received a half inch a couple weeks ago. Their fields have a stand, so they’re not blowing yet, but winds have been strong and sustained for much of the area.North of Lakin in Kearny County, Gary Millershaski’s fields aren’t faring as well. An area that typically gets 18.8” of annual precipitation, they’ve only received 8.6” over the past 365 days. While last year’s crop was also raised in drought conditions, it had the benefit of some subsoil moisture, which has all but been depleted by now. Even the residue left from last year’s crop has been reduced by wind and drought.“We’re totally out of residue,” Millershaski said. “There’s nothing out there.”He said insurance adjusters will be in the area over the next couple weeks. Many of the fields that haven’t even emerged will be adjusted out, giving farmers like Millershaski few options for ways to protect the blowing soil.“I’m not going to chase another crop in dry soil,” he said. “Right now, it’s all about getting by and spending the least amount possible.”In Sheridan County, Brett Oelke’s fields are surviving on half their average precipitation over the past two years as well.“We’re pretty fortunate right now,” he said, because the moisture on this wheat crop has come with a timely three-quarters of an inch of rain in October when it was drilled and another inch and a half of moisture from snow since January.Oelke’s moisture probe proved that even though his area has gotten some timely moisture, the crop is far from trouble. Reaching only two feet down, he said last year’s subsoil moisture was four feet.“We’re 22 to 24 inches behind over the past few years,” he said.In the sandy soils of Barber County, farmers are also dealing with less than half their average moisture.“We need a rain really bad — and soon,” Chris Boyd said.The wheat plants are small and don’t have many tillers. Fields in the Isabel area have received only one inch of rain total since the crop was planted.In addition to fields that have been blown out completely from strong winds, they are also dealing with winter grain mites and army cut worms, which will limit yield potential. These pests can be controlled by applying an insecticide or pesticide, an added expense for a crop without a lot of potential.“We were blessed with a nice harvest last year, but that crop used all of the subsoil moisture,” Boyd said. “With virtually no moisture on this current crop and nothing in the forecast, producers are faced with difficult decisions on how many more inputs — such as insecticide for grain mites — to invest on a potential crop failure.”Rain is critical right now as temperatures begin to warm up and the wheat crop comes out of dormancy.“We’ll take whatever moisture we can get,” said Millershaski.With hit and miss showers mostly avoiding so﻿uthwest Kansas this past week and few scattered showers forecast in the next 10 days, farmers remain hopeful for additional timely rains.“We’ll stay optimistic,” Ediger said.Written by Marsha Boswell, Kansas Wheat<h2>More Kansas Crop Conditions</h2><h2>Brian Linin, Goodland:</h2>The wheat looks tough. Some looks decent, but a lot of it is spotty. Linin said they've received&nbsp;31” of snow, but it came a little at a time, so it didn’t do much to improve the subsoil moisture. It’s still really dry in the area. He said they're wondering if their wheat is going to make it or not, noting that they may go with another crop this spring.<h2>Chris Tanner, Norton:</h2>The wheat planted into fallow ground has a decent stand, but wheat planted into failed corn where there is a lot of residue has a marginal stand. About half of the wheat in the area is still emerging because of the dry conditions last fall. Because of the heavier clay soils in the area, soil samples show that there are not a lot of nutrient requirements because of failed crops last fall, and only about half of usual nitrogen rates need to be applied. Over the past two weeks, Tanner reports he has been banding fertilizer on. Because of the cold temperatures in the area, the wheat is just starting to green up, so producers are still waiting to see what it will look like coming out of dormancy.<h2>Mike McClellan, Plainville:</h2>There are a few summer fallow acres that look decent and some wheat behind corn that looks ok. Wheat behind soybeans looks really rough. They are thinking about having an adjuster come out to look at some of their wheat.<h2>David Schemm, Sharon Springs:</h2>The area is pretty dry, but Schemm said they were blessed with some snow that equated to 50 to 60 hundredths of moisture. They do see some potential in the crop, but it has been cold. The wheat took some hits of cold with no snow cover, so there may be some freeze damage.<h2>Gary Millershaski, Lakin:</h2>Crop adjusters are coming out next week. Millershaski estimates that two thirds of his wheat will be abandoned, but he can’t plant a spring crop because there is no subsoil moisture. There’s very little residue left and the fields are blowing.<h2>Ron Suppes, Dighton:</h2>Suppes reported that one quarter of the wheat is not up yet and will be turned in to adjusters. He did topdress, but overall, this is a worse crop than last year.<h2>Doug Keesling, Lyons:</h2>Keesling reported they&nbsp;have an adjuster coming out to look at one third of their wheat. The conditions are not good. He said they've only received 1/2" of moisture since January 1 and 1/10" in March. Things are tough. With the extremely sandy soils, there’s going to be a lot of abandonment. Wheat is blowing out.<h2>Tim Turek, South Haven:</h2>Wheat stands are a bit patchy, but it’s starting to green up nicely. A lot of fertilizer top dressing is going on in the area, and producers have pulled cattle off. They are dry compared to normal, but are fortunate to have received some moisture. They will need more rain as the wheat starts growing again this spring.<h2>Martin Kerschen, Garden Plain:</h2>Wheat is greening up and looks good. They received some moisture three weeks ago. As you get to Pratt and west, the conditions really starts tapering off.<h2>Derek Sawyer, McPherson:</h2>A lot of topdressing has been going on over the last two weeks. Wheat is responding and turning green. Many of the bare spots are filling in. Sawyer said, “If we get a little moisture, we will have a decent crop.” They’ve been fortunate because they’ve gotten some moisture since January.<h2>Nathan Larson, Riley:</h2>Ponds in the area are dry, but the soil moisture is adequate. Wheat has greened up and looks good.

Wheat Scoop: Waning optimism on potential of Kansas wheat crop

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p4fEi-BuxTE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho.

🎤 Forward Ever: USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho

A red flag warning is in effect for Ellis County and most of parched western Kansas through 9 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.

The north wind will pick up through the day, sustained and 25 to 30 mph with gusts near 50 mph possible. Blowing dust could reduce visibility, as well, the NWS warned.

The winds will calm during the day Saturday, but will shift back to south wind by Saturday evening, with gusts around 45 mph possible.&nbsp;

The high Saturday will be in the mid-60s, the NWS said, increasing to the mow- to mid-70s Sunday.

The high on Thursday reached 78 degrees — warm, but not close to the all-time record of 95 degrees in 1946.

There is no precipitation predicted for the Hays area in the long-term forecast, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680276914457.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A red flag warning is in effect for Ellis County and most of parched western Kansas through 9 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.The north wind will pick up through the day, sustained and 25 to 30 mph with gusts near 50 mph possible. Blowing dust could reduce visibility, as well, the NWS warned.The winds will calm during the day Saturday, but will shift back to south wind by Saturday evening, with gusts around 45 mph possible.&nbsp;The high Saturday will be in the mid-60s, the NWS said, increasing to the mow- to mid-70s Sunday.The high on Thursday reached 78 degrees — warm, but not close to the all-time record of 95 degrees in 1946.There is no precipitation predicted for the Hays area in the long-term forecast, the NWS said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mostly sunny and windy today with afternoon highs in the 60s. <a href="https://t.co/HZeYEurFYm">pic.twitter.com/HZeYEurFYm</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1641688311898210305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NW Kansas red flag warning remains in effect through Friday

On this episode of the Post Podcast Amy B. chats with Letters from Home performers, prior to their Friday night performance in downtown Hays.

<div><iframe title="Letters from Home comes to Hays Friday" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=tu3pa-13cfaa5-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=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Amy B. chats with Letters from Home performers, prior to their Friday night performance in downtown Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Letters from Home comes to Hays Friday

Lovegrass
Music Festival brings ‘experience’ to Defiance Brewing Co. Saturday for free event featuring new beer

At 3
p.m. Saturday, The Lovegrass Music Festival Association and Defiance Brewing,
2050 Old Highway 40, are teaming up to bring a “Lovegrass Experience” to Hays.

The day will
feature food, games, a benefit raffle and area bands to raise awareness and
funds for the annual fall bluegrass music festival at the Wilson Lake State
Park.

“We are
a 501(c)3, and so we're a nonprofit, and we like to keep our festival free,” said
organizer Aimee Riegel.

She said that over the last few years maintaining the festival has been challenging, but it
has continued and grown with events like Saturday’s benefit helping spread awareness
and funds.

“Besides
our festival — which is our main culminating event each year — we have in the
last two years broadened our scope to provide music not just at the lake but
also in other areas, such as Hays. We've done some activities over Wilson at
the Midland Hotel. We are also partnering with Great Bend Alive at the end of
April for an event down there as well.”

While The Lovegrass Music festival
may center on music, Saturday’s event will also feature a popular area
activity.

“Branson
Kyle from the Hays Cornhole League is going to be organizing a cornhole tournament,”
Riegel said. “They're very passionate about this project, and you can sign up
ahead of time.”

The tournament
will kick off the day’s festivities at the brewery’s taproom, with signup beginning
at 3 p.m.

“There
are two different leagues, pro and then social league,” Riegel said. “That's
the first event, and then we've got music kicking off at four o'clock with
three bands.”

Bartlett
will open the musical offerings at 4 p.m., followed by 80 Proof Alice and
Haymakers. Each band will perform for about an hour.

“Both of
those bands are going to be playing for absolutely no charge as a donation to
the festival,” Riegel said. “So, if you come on out, bring some money to tip
the bands. That way, they can make it worth their time.”

She said
she is especially excited to bring Haymakers to Hays.

“They're
doing a fundraiser down in Garden City for the Tumbleweed Festival, (which is) run by
Valerie Smith,” Riegel said. “They're doing that on Friday. And then, funny
enough, they're coming here to do our fundraiser the next day.

“They play
more blues, bluegrass, folk-type music and Americana. They're really
wonderful.” 

Haymakers
are set to take the stage at 7 p.m.

Following
their set, Riegel said they would host a jam session open to everyone.

“If you
have an instrument and you want to come play, we're going to keep the taproom
open as long as there are folks out there that want to play and partake,” she
said. “Come out, bring your guitar, bring your banjo, bring your spoons,
whatever it might be, and join us for some jamming.”

Defiance Brewing Brand Master
Brett Straight said hosting an event like the Lovegrass Experience is a part of
their mission.

“Any
time we get an opportunity to support local music, and live music, we're all
about it,” he said.

And with the upcoming event, they
hope to support the organization.

“What we
were focused on was just being able to provide an experience where people can
come out,” Straight said. “There's no obligation that you have to spend any money.
You can just come out and enjoy the festival, but what we hope is going to
happen is that people are going to purchase the custom-made pint glasses that
we had made.”

Custom
stickers were also designed for the event and will be available. 

“There's
been some wonderful people that donated some great prizes,” Straight said. 

“We really
had an outpouring of sponsorships,” Riegel said. “I think it's really
interesting, considering our festival is in Wilson at Wilson Lake in Russell
County, we usually target those areas for sponsorships for our main festival.
But for the smaller events, I believe, getting the word out and collaborating
with Defiance, and having that known name and recognition has been really
helpful for us to be able to procure certain sponsorships.”

“People
have been really wonderful. And helping this event, I was really blown away,
actually. So, we want to thank all of those that have made this possible, and
especially Defiance. They are going to be helping out too, they've just been
wonderful to work with.”

Part of
the support included the brewing of a beer to match the event.

“We
wanted to try something that is oriented around Bluegrass,” Straight said. “So,
we came up with a Blueberry Pie Gose. It's called Tap That Grass, and we will
be showcasing that on Saturday.”

For more information about the
Lovegrass Music Festival, visit <a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">lovegrassmusicfestival.com.</a>

<div><iframe title="Defiance Brewing, Lovegrass Music Festival team up for weekend event" 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=v4cwd-13caeae-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><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680007122524.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Lovegrass
Music Festival brings ‘experience’ to Defiance Brewing Co. Saturday for free event featuring new beer</h2>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAt 3
p.m. Saturday, The Lovegrass Music Festival Association and Defiance Brewing,
2050 Old Highway 40, are teaming up to bring a “Lovegrass Experience” to Hays.The day will
feature food, games, a benefit raffle and area bands to raise awareness and
funds for the annual fall bluegrass music festival at the Wilson Lake State
Park.“We are
a 501(c)3, and so we're a nonprofit, and we like to keep our festival free,” said
organizer Aimee Riegel.She said that over the last few years maintaining the festival has been challenging, but it
has continued and grown with events like Saturday’s benefit helping spread awareness
and funds.“Besides
our festival — which is our main culminating event each year — we have in the
last two years broadened our scope to provide music not just at the lake but
also in other areas, such as Hays. We've done some activities over Wilson at
the Midland Hotel. We are also partnering with Great Bend Alive at the end of
April for an event down there as well.”While The Lovegrass Music festival
may center on music, Saturday’s event will also feature a popular area
activity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680007017649.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Branson
Kyle from the Hays Cornhole League is going to be organizing a cornhole tournament,”
Riegel said. “They're very passionate about this project, and you can sign up
ahead of time.”The tournament
will kick off the day’s festivities at the brewery’s taproom, with signup beginning
at 3 p.m.“There
are two different leagues, pro and then social league,” Riegel said. “That's
the first event, and then we've got music kicking off at four o'clock with
three bands.”Bartlett
will open the musical offerings at 4 p.m., followed by 80 Proof Alice and
Haymakers. Each band will perform for about an hour.“Both of
those bands are going to be playing for absolutely no charge as a donation to
the festival,” Riegel said. “So, if you come on out, bring some money to tip
the bands. That way, they can make it worth their time.”She said
she is especially excited to bring Haymakers to Hays.“They're
doing a fundraiser down in Garden City for the Tumbleweed Festival, (which is) run by
Valerie Smith,” Riegel said. “They're doing that on Friday. And then, funny
enough, they're coming here to do our fundraiser the next day.“They play
more blues, bluegrass, folk-type music and Americana. They're really
wonderful.” Haymakers
are set to take the stage at 7 p.m.Following
their set, Riegel said they would host a jam session open to everyone.“If you
have an instrument and you want to come play, we're going to keep the taproom
open as long as there are folks out there that want to play and partake,” she
said. “Come out, bring your guitar, bring your banjo, bring your spoons,
whatever it might be, and join us for some jamming.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200134811.jpeg" alt="Dustin Arbuckle and Matt Woods perform at the Midland Railroad Hotel in Wilson during a Lovegrass Experience event. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Arbuckle and Matt Woods perform at the Midland Railroad Hotel in Wilson during a Lovegrass Experience event. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Defiance Brewing Brand Master
Brett Straight said hosting an event like the Lovegrass Experience is a part of
their mission.“Any
time we get an opportunity to support local music, and live music, we're all
about it,” he said.And with the upcoming event, they
hope to support the organization.“What we
were focused on was just being able to provide an experience where people can
come out,” Straight said. “There's no obligation that you have to spend any money.
You can just come out and enjoy the festival, but what we hope is going to
happen is that people are going to purchase the custom-made pint glasses that
we had made.”Custom
stickers were also designed for the event and will be available. A fundraiser
raffle is also planned.“There's
been some wonderful people that donated some great prizes,” Straight said. “We really
had an outpouring of sponsorships,” Riegel said. “I think it's really
interesting, considering our festival is in Wilson at Wilson Lake in Russell
County, we usually target those areas for sponsorships for our main festival.
But for the smaller events, I believe, getting the word out and collaborating
with Defiance, and having that known name and recognition has been really
helpful for us to be able to procure certain sponsorships.”“People
have been really wonderful. And helping this event, I was really blown away,
actually. So, we want to thank all of those that have made this possible, and
especially Defiance. They are going to be helping out too, they've just been
wonderful to work with.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200435901.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Part of
the support included the brewing of a beer to match the event.“We
wanted to try something that is oriented around Bluegrass,” Straight said. “So,
we came up with a Blueberry Pie Gose. It's called Tap That Grass, and we will
be showcasing that on Saturday.”For more information about the
Lovegrass Music Festival, visit <a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">lovegrassmusicfestival.com.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200265495.jpeg" alt="Lovegrass Music Festival 2022. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Lovegrass Music Festival 2022. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Beer and Bluegrass on tap this weekend in Hays

Fort Hays State University's Kansas Academy of Mathematics &amp; Science is offering a STEM Summit beginning&nbsp; June 4, and ending June 6. The summit is open to all incoming 8th, 9th, and 10th-grade students.

Students will work in teams, meet new friends, and perform exciting hands-on experiments that make science, technology, engineering, and math come alive.

Campers will choose from a broad range of activities, including:

• Get ready to be dazzled, challenged, and experience a few booms. Check out some of the best science demonstrations used in teaching. Can you survive the bed-of-nails?

•&nbsp;Work as a local game warden attempting to solve the case of the poached whooping crane. Learn how insects can fight crime in the name of conservation and practice molecular biology techniques to nail down the culprit. Collect data in the field and examine the findings in the lab to solve the mystery.

•&nbsp;Perform experiments to approximate Pi and use hands-on and algebraic methods to prove the Pythagorean Theorem.

•&nbsp;Put your STEM knowledge to the test as you work with a team to crack codes, find clues, and solve puzzles in a race against the clock to “Break-out!” Are you ready for a challenge?

•&nbsp;Explore how the chemistry of cooking and art are encountered in everyday life. Work with foods containing carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Explore the chemistry of ink, perfumes, and paper-making.

•&nbsp;Learn the science behind the purchasing decisions you make every day and the impact they have on your friends, community, and around the world. Use fun, engaging exercises to illustrate behavior and free markets; you will not look at your next purchase the same way.

•&nbsp;See how research is leading to the science classroom of the future with 360 videos. Work with a team to capture nature in action with a 360 camera and see how this technology can explore the world.

•&nbsp;Use computer-aided design technologies like Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Revit to produce a one-of-a-kind 3-dimensional object. Learn how 3D scanners and virtual reality will impact the engineering design world.

The registration fee is $25, non-refundable for Kansas residents and $100 for non-Kansas residents. The registration deadline is April 15, and space is limited.&nbsp;Camp fees include a two-night stay in an FHSU residence hall room, meals, campus supplies, and a camp T-shirt. Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.&nbsp;

For more information about the summer summit, contact Ann Noble at 785.628.5449 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:amnoble@fhsu.edu">amnoble@fhsu.edu</a>. The registration brochure can be downloaded <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtGj9bHqmTQIEctQ5-2FMQfCc-2FTlrghmiNmAeaIQX-2FZgprohqnYtkOG2Lz7rVQX1wZIUg-3D-3D0hgg_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemG4yb8ceAfOv5EJVSbPXKjlaoAj3-2BCHw2tQoqKwR9Q1wRkNWSPeWpfyYBn92X6rfzzceOYwR2aWdbK6-2BaI1nPZl0pU1FJfJPX1sLCGRUTgaXiMO2A-2FBP-2FXptAo-2BM60SFAQiWv7qyRET4kCxxoztOR5fTJouPMi-2F6wJaqcwszlRCuugEOu50zGpgT4yRs3KbulQVKlt4vD5IfnjLxHIN-2FEPhAhgDJsjnOcwmZWP6-2BjMJ1a8N2KlKi54uMT0goYohBOscw-2BnQbpjcb14AnqvlSYpg-3D-3D">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679924684690.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University's Kansas Academy of Mathematics &amp; Science is offering a STEM Summit beginning&nbsp; June 4, and ending June 6. The summit is open to all incoming 8th, 9th, and 10th-grade students.Students will work in teams, meet new friends, and perform exciting hands-on experiments that make science, technology, engineering, and math come alive.Campers will choose from a broad range of activities, including:• Get ready to be dazzled, challenged, and experience a few booms. Check out some of the best science demonstrations used in teaching. Can you survive the bed-of-nails?•&nbsp;Work as a local game warden attempting to solve the case of the poached whooping crane. Learn how insects can fight crime in the name of conservation and practice molecular biology techniques to nail down the culprit. Collect data in the field and examine the findings in the lab to solve the mystery.•&nbsp;Perform experiments to approximate Pi and use hands-on and algebraic methods to prove the Pythagorean Theorem.•&nbsp;Put your STEM knowledge to the test as you work with a team to crack codes, find clues, and solve puzzles in a race against the clock to “Break-out!” Are you ready for a challenge?•&nbsp;Explore how the chemistry of cooking and art are encountered in everyday life. Work with foods containing carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Explore the chemistry of ink, perfumes, and paper-making.•&nbsp;Learn the science behind the purchasing decisions you make every day and the impact they have on your friends, community, and around the world. Use fun, engaging exercises to illustrate behavior and free markets; you will not look at your next purchase the same way.•&nbsp;See how research is leading to the science classroom of the future with 360 videos. Work with a team to capture nature in action with a 360 camera and see how this technology can explore the world.•&nbsp;Use computer-aided design technologies like Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Revit to produce a one-of-a-kind 3-dimensional object. Learn how 3D scanners and virtual reality will impact the engineering design world.The registration fee is $25, non-refundable for Kansas residents and $100 for non-Kansas residents. The registration deadline is April 15, and space is limited.&nbsp;Camp fees include a two-night stay in an FHSU residence hall room, meals, campus supplies, and a camp T-shirt. Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.&nbsp;For more information about the summer summit, contact Ann Noble at 785.628.5449 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:amnoble@fhsu.edu">amnoble@fhsu.edu</a>. The registration brochure can be downloaded <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtGj9bHqmTQIEctQ5-2FMQfCc-2FTlrghmiNmAeaIQX-2FZgprohqnYtkOG2Lz7rVQX1wZIUg-3D-3D0hgg_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemG4yb8ceAfOv5EJVSbPXKjlaoAj3-2BCHw2tQoqKwR9Q1wRkNWSPeWpfyYBn92X6rfzzceOYwR2aWdbK6-2BaI1nPZl0pU1FJfJPX1sLCGRUTgaXiMO2A-2FBP-2FXptAo-2BM60SFAQiWv7qyRET4kCxxoztOR5fTJouPMi-2F6wJaqcwszlRCuugEOu50zGpgT4yRs3KbulQVKlt4vD5IfnjLxHIN-2FEPhAhgDJsjnOcwmZWP6-2BjMJ1a8N2KlKi54uMT0goYohBOscw-2BnQbpjcb14AnqvlSYpg-3D-3D">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Registration open for KAMS summer STEM Summit at FHSU

The&nbsp;Chamber in Hays, Kansas&nbsp;will host the final date for&nbsp;the 2023 Legislative Coffee Series.&nbsp;

Saturday will be the last date to connect with local legislators representing Ellis County. Doors will open at 8 a.m. at&nbsp;the Hays Public Library. Coffee and scones provided by Breathe Coffee House will be served from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., with the official program commencing at 8:30 a.m. Legislators will provide opening remarks and share their committee&nbsp;assignments, provide a question and answer forum, and conclude with closing remarks.

Kansas Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, and&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, have confirmed&nbsp;attendance, with Kansas Rep Ken Rahjes’&nbsp;presence pending. Rahjes is a Republican from Agra.

Questions&nbsp;may be submitted in advance&nbsp;via email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>. &nbsp;Attendees will also be afforded the opportunity to submit questions the morning of the event. &nbsp;All community members are invited to attend, and no formal registration is required.

Premier sponsors for the event are Midwest Energy and the Hays Daily News.

News releaseThe&nbsp;Chamber in Hays, Kansas&nbsp;will host the final date for&nbsp;the 2023 Legislative Coffee Series.&nbsp;Saturday will be the last date to connect with local legislators representing Ellis County. Doors will open at 8 a.m. at&nbsp;the Hays Public Library. Coffee and scones provided by Breathe Coffee House will be served from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., with the official program commencing at 8:30 a.m. Legislators will provide opening remarks and share their committee&nbsp;assignments, provide a question and answer forum, and conclude with closing remarks.Kansas Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, and&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, have confirmed&nbsp;attendance, with Kansas Rep Ken Rahjes’&nbsp;presence pending. Rahjes is a Republican from Agra.Questions&nbsp;may be submitted in advance&nbsp;via email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>. &nbsp;Attendees will also be afforded the opportunity to submit questions the morning of the event. &nbsp;All community members are invited to attend, and no formal registration is required.Premier sponsors for the event are Midwest Energy and the Hays Daily News.

Final 2023 Legislative Coffee scheduled for Saturday

I have always greatly appreciated the creative arts and am especially proud of the work our art and design department students produce. I am also a huge fan of all Fort Hays State sports.&nbsp;I’d like to share with you a story about an FHSU student who excels in two very different pursuits-volleyball and graphic design. While volleyball and graphic design have very little in common, both are pursuits where intense competition and open collaboration can be the keys to success. &nbsp;

Riley&nbsp;is a senior graphic design major from Basehor. At a relatively early age,&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;learned the importance of keeping life’s ups and downs in perspective. She’s learned the importance of finding&nbsp;a&nbsp;balance between all the demands on her time and attention.&nbsp;

Riley&nbsp;has always&nbsp;loved&nbsp;competing. She ran track and played basketball, softball, volleyball, and swam. While softball was her first love, she eventually gravitated to volleyball, joining a club team in 4th grade.

“I love the adrenaline rushes that are so much a part of volleyball. There are a lot of ups and downs, but I love that it is totally a team game,”&nbsp;Riley said.

As the years progressed, Riley began to settle on volleyball as her sports passion.&nbsp;Although she loved art, math was her academic area of greatest interest, that is, until her senior year of high school when she did a job shadow at a marketing agency called Global Prairie. Until stepping into their offices, Riley believed that a career in art would equate to a vow of poverty. Once she saw the possibilities of what a graphic designer could do in an agency, she knew that was what she wanted to study in college.

While&nbsp;Riley knew she wanted to study graphic design&nbsp;at&nbsp;Fort Hays State, she&nbsp;wasn’t willing to give up on the dream of playing college volleyball. She reached out to FHSU volleyball coach Jessica Wood-Atkins but was told there wasn’t a spot on the roster for her. Then, late in the recruitment cycle, one of&nbsp;coach Wood-Atkins’&nbsp;seniors decided to forgo her&nbsp;final&nbsp;season of eligibility and left the team.&nbsp;Fortune unexpectantly smiled on Riley&nbsp;as&nbsp;she&nbsp;got&nbsp;her shot as a walk-on with the Tigers.

A steady passer, an aggressive server, and a smart and disciplined hitter, Riley quickly found her way to the starting lineup&nbsp;in her sophomore season. Last season, Riley led the squad in both kills and service aces. She has been recognized several times for her performance on and off the court, earning the All&nbsp;Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) honorable mention honors in 2021 and 2022&nbsp;and&nbsp;the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award and selection to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District team in 2022.&nbsp;

Riley pours her heart and soul into Tiger Volleyball both during the fall NCAA season and in the spring, where the competition schedule is limited, but the training, weight-lifting, and conditioning regimes can be exhaustive.&nbsp;

“This is all I’ve ever done. I probably take things way too serious and too personally. I’m learning not to make it my identity when I do well or not,” Riley&nbsp;said.

When she’s not eating, sleeping, or fulfilling her volleyball responsibilities, Riley can usually be found in a studio&nbsp;with her classmates&nbsp;at the Schmidt&nbsp;Foundation&nbsp;Center for Art Design. When&nbsp;deciding&nbsp;to pursue graphic design,&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;was concerned that&nbsp;she wouldn’t&nbsp;fit in. Thankfully, she was wrong. Together,&nbsp;in the studio for countless hours, Riley and her fellow graphic design students quickly formed a strong bond.&nbsp;

“Sometimes, usually at around 2 am, when we’re all kind of exhausted and delusional, are the times when we make the best memories,” Riley&nbsp;said. &nbsp;

Each spring, junior and senior students in the graphic design program have&nbsp;the opportunity to participate in the Pencil Project&nbsp;portfolio&nbsp;competition. The competition is sponsored by Leo Burnett Worldwide, a Chicago-based advertising agency. The brainchild of former FHSU graphic design majors who found success&nbsp;working for&nbsp;the agency, the Pencil Project was created more than 25 years ago as a way for&nbsp;Leo Burnett&nbsp;to partner with FHSU to&nbsp;help shape future agency professionals.&nbsp;More than just a simple portfolio project, the Pencil Project is really about helping FHSU graphic design students develop the personal brand they will present to potential employers&nbsp;and the world. Riley calls it a test of everything she’s learned in the program.&nbsp;

As a junior&nbsp;last spring,&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;won the competition.&nbsp;She points to this&nbsp;experience&nbsp;as one that trulyhammered home the importance&nbsp;of&nbsp;each student designer’s role in&nbsp;maintaining the well-earned reputation of the graphic design program at FHSU.&nbsp;

“All of us knew that we were next in line to carry the torch for the legacy of our program,” Riley said,&nbsp;“maintaining that legacy was a shared responsibility,” and&nbsp;one that brought&nbsp;her and her colleagues&nbsp;closer.&nbsp;Even though&nbsp;the Pencil Project&nbsp;was an individual and not a team&nbsp;competition,&nbsp;Riley believes the best part was&nbsp;their shared commitment to collaboration. They really saw the greatest outcome&nbsp;was to see everyone succeed.&nbsp;

This summer, Riley plans to intern with several firms in the Kansas City area. She wants to learn as much as&nbsp;possible&nbsp;from these experiences so she can carefully choose the setting to launch her career. Riley will graduate in December of 2023, right after her final season with the Tiger Volleyball team&nbsp;comes to a close.&nbsp;In December of this year, she will graduate from FHSU with the ability to compete&nbsp;fiercely&nbsp;at the highest levels,&nbsp;but balanced by&nbsp;a personal commitment to being a compassionate and selfless&nbsp;friend and&nbsp;colleague.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>I have always greatly appreciated the creative arts and am especially proud of the work our art and design department students produce. I am also a huge fan of all Fort Hays State sports.&nbsp;I’d like to share with you a story about an FHSU student who excels in two very different pursuits-volleyball and graphic design. While volleyball and graphic design have very little in common, both are pursuits where intense competition and open collaboration can be the keys to success. &nbsp;Riley&nbsp;is a senior graphic design major from Basehor. At a relatively early age,&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;learned the importance of keeping life’s ups and downs in perspective. She’s learned the importance of finding&nbsp;a&nbsp;balance between all the demands on her time and attention.&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;has always&nbsp;loved&nbsp;competing. She ran track and played basketball, softball, volleyball, and swam. While softball was her first love, she eventually gravitated to volleyball, joining a club team in 4th grade.“I love the adrenaline rushes that are so much a part of volleyball. There are a lot of ups and downs, but I love that it is totally a team game,”&nbsp;Riley said.As the years progressed, Riley began to settle on volleyball as her sports passion.&nbsp;Although she loved art, math was her academic area of greatest interest, that is, until her senior year of high school when she did a job shadow at a marketing agency called Global Prairie. Until stepping into their offices, Riley believed that a career in art would equate to a vow of poverty. Once she saw the possibilities of what a graphic designer could do in an agency, she knew that was what she wanted to study in college.While&nbsp;Riley knew she wanted to study graphic design&nbsp;at&nbsp;Fort Hays State, she&nbsp;wasn’t willing to give up on the dream of playing college volleyball. She reached out to FHSU volleyball coach Jessica Wood-Atkins but was told there wasn’t a spot on the roster for her. Then, late in the recruitment cycle, one of&nbsp;coach Wood-Atkins’&nbsp;seniors decided to forgo her&nbsp;final&nbsp;season of eligibility and left the team.&nbsp;Fortune unexpectantly smiled on Riley&nbsp;as&nbsp;she&nbsp;got&nbsp;her shot as a walk-on with the Tigers.A steady passer, an aggressive server, and a smart and disciplined hitter, Riley quickly found her way to the starting lineup&nbsp;in her sophomore season. Last season, Riley led the squad in both kills and service aces. She has been recognized several times for her performance on and off the court, earning the All&nbsp;Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) honorable mention honors in 2021 and 2022&nbsp;and&nbsp;the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award and selection to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District team in 2022.&nbsp;Riley pours her heart and soul into Tiger Volleyball both during the fall NCAA season and in the spring, where the competition schedule is limited, but the training, weight-lifting, and conditioning regimes can be exhaustive.&nbsp;“This is all I’ve ever done. I probably take things way too serious and too personally. I’m learning not to make it my identity when I do well or not,” Riley&nbsp;said.When she’s not eating, sleeping, or fulfilling her volleyball responsibilities, Riley can usually be found in a studio&nbsp;with her classmates&nbsp;at the Schmidt&nbsp;Foundation&nbsp;Center for Art Design. When&nbsp;deciding&nbsp;to pursue graphic design,&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;was concerned that&nbsp;she wouldn’t&nbsp;fit in. Thankfully, she was wrong. Together,&nbsp;in the studio for countless hours, Riley and her fellow graphic design students quickly formed a strong bond.&nbsp;“Sometimes, usually at around 2 am, when we’re all kind of exhausted and delusional, are the times when we make the best memories,” Riley&nbsp;said. &nbsp;Each spring, junior and senior students in the graphic design program have&nbsp;the opportunity to participate in the Pencil Project&nbsp;portfolio&nbsp;competition. The competition is sponsored by Leo Burnett Worldwide, a Chicago-based advertising agency. The brainchild of former FHSU graphic design majors who found success&nbsp;working for&nbsp;the agency, the Pencil Project was created more than 25 years ago as a way for&nbsp;Leo Burnett&nbsp;to partner with FHSU to&nbsp;help shape future agency professionals.&nbsp;More than just a simple portfolio project, the Pencil Project is really about helping FHSU graphic design students develop the personal brand they will present to potential employers&nbsp;and the world. Riley calls it a test of everything she’s learned in the program.&nbsp;As a junior&nbsp;last spring,&nbsp;Riley&nbsp;won the competition.&nbsp;She points to this&nbsp;experience&nbsp;as one that trulyhammered home the importance&nbsp;of&nbsp;each student designer’s role in&nbsp;maintaining the well-earned reputation of the graphic design program at FHSU.&nbsp;“All of us knew that we were next in line to carry the torch for the legacy of our program,” Riley said,&nbsp;“maintaining that legacy was a shared responsibility,” and&nbsp;one that brought&nbsp;her and her colleagues&nbsp;closer.&nbsp;Even though&nbsp;the Pencil Project&nbsp;was an individual and not a team&nbsp;competition,&nbsp;Riley believes the best part was&nbsp;their shared commitment to collaboration. They really saw the greatest outcome&nbsp;was to see everyone succeed.&nbsp;This summer, Riley plans to intern with several firms in the Kansas City area. She wants to learn as much as&nbsp;possible&nbsp;from these experiences so she can carefully choose the setting to launch her career. Riley will graduate in December of 2023, right after her final season with the Tiger Volleyball team&nbsp;comes to a close.&nbsp;In December of this year, she will graduate from FHSU with the ability to compete&nbsp;fiercely&nbsp;at the highest levels,&nbsp;but balanced by&nbsp;a personal commitment to being a compassionate and selfless&nbsp;friend and&nbsp;colleague.

Heart of a Tiger: The value of competition and collaboration 

A key focus of Goal 5 of Fort Hays State University’s strategic plan,&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtAd-2Fi38P8Jo9YDtH0syjmAku4JFj4qmeUnQpau0fhxZR5-2FlBxHm3IAIU829WS5LVuyigbcOIOIldhGqGMxGFv-2BQ-3DbG5r_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BDbYPoWWtOiv5U5E7qRHCvCRObPt0aS-2B9ZaCoT6KrEltb4v6KmywXoPs4qEhwy93CkR18bkIZ34-2BRXNBrwudelhmQkhhImP9ysLDdgnzo0h9mzgDxs0ZOT5cK0I-2FJ1I4pAdnJPQbLJKf0uDZQbwA6vwFc-2FppwX4sfKzL8CYORx7oaxZyIPWFaFa-2FLhrD5miYNWdPuCUQnldw7nODoJ47y-2Fn5Wli9vKbMg8eH0sdNLepFRQOkz-2F5gpEuiic-2FjeeExS">Unlocking Untapped Potential</a>, focuses on cultivating impactful internal, local, national, and global partnerships. The driving force behind building these extensive partnerships is the mission-driven commitment of FHSU to develop engaged global citizen leaders. Through the experiences the university and its partners create, students will develop essential leadership skills and a life-long commitment to “think globally and act locally.”

Under the leadership of Interim Assistant Provost of Internationalization and Strategic Initiatives, Dr. Jeni McRay, the university is moving forward on three key fronts. The major student experience initiatives that Jeni and her Global Affairs/Civic Learning &amp; Engagement teams are developing focus on leadership development, global learning, and civic engagement.

Leadership Development and Civic Engagement

Service learning, or educational experiences built around service to others, has long been a mainstay of the curriculum in the Department of Leadership Studies. Students majoring in this field must complete Leadership 310, a&nbsp;course designed to help move students from the study of leadership to actual participation in a leadership project. Students are asked to serve as citizen leaders in a local community project of their choice in conjunction with an existing organization.

In 2021,&nbsp;Leadership Studies professor Dr. Donette Noble was asked to serve as the Director of Civic Learning and Engagement. She was charged with moving civic engagement from a student-led initiative to one supported by the entire university. Under this new model, she and her colleagues are identifying internal and external assets, identifying curricular and co-curricular initiatives, and building a collaborative community partnership network.

Noble, her Civic Learning and Engagement co-chair, Forsyth Library Outreach Specialist Brittney Squire, and their colleagues aim to expand experiential civic learning (“learning by doing”) opportunities for FHSU students.

Developing opportunities for FHSU students from all walks of life and countries of origin is the core of what McRay and the Global Affairs team focus on daily. McRay employs nearly a dozen international students from several countries as global ambassadors. These ambassadors serve as the first points of contact for prospective international students interested in attending an American university.&nbsp;Global Ambassadors come from all over the world and often include students from China, Paraguay, Senegal, Nigeria, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.&nbsp;

Luciana Mendoza is an international business and economics major from Paraguay who is committed to living the FHSU mission of engaged global citizenship and sustainability. Last year, she and Nuria Garcia, a former graduate student from Spain, competed in an event called the&nbsp;CEO Global Pitch Competition. Sponsored by the&nbsp;Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization (CEO), the CEO Global Pitch Competition invites student entrepreneurs from around the world to present their business plans to corporate CEOs and compete for a $20,000 first prize.&nbsp;

Mendoza and Garcia created a sustainability-oriented business plan for a company they named “UPpreciate.” Their plan was built around refurbishing and repurposing used household items for discounted resale to college students. UPpreciate was one of 500 entries in the competition. Mendoza and Garcia won a trip to Chicago to pitch their business plan as one of 20 competition finalists. While they did not bring home first-place honors, they gained invaluable experience.

“Experiences like the CEO Global Pitch Competition and the annual FHSU Epic Challenge entrepreneurial competition moves you to develop a new mindset,” said Mendoza. “I think it makes you more selfless and more caring about the world and future generations.”

FHSU plans to continue to focus on expanding academic and student life programs that develop leadership skills, foster a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, and deliver transformative global learning experiences. In the months ahead, faculty, staff, and students involved in this effort to live the mission of the university will focus on expanding essential partnerships here in Kansas and the world beyond and&nbsp;identifying innovative ways to include United Nations Sustainability Goals in the student experience.

Plans are also underway to offer a new “Global Citizen Leader” credential. The credential will be built around leadership coursework, a community-based service-learning project, and a global experience (e.g. Study Abroad or Global Internship). Upon completion, students will deliver a formal presentation, earn a special notation on their official transcript, and be recognized during their graduation ceremony.&nbsp;

McRay and Noble also plan to pursue two new Carnegie Foundation institutional classifications (“Leadership for Public Purpose” and “Community Engagement”) as a demonstration of FHSU’s comprehensive commitment to producing engaged global citizen leaders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680123247582.jpeg" alt="FHSU international students visit Topeka." />
 <figcaption>FHSU international students visit Topeka.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsA key focus of Goal 5 of Fort Hays State University’s strategic plan,&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtAd-2Fi38P8Jo9YDtH0syjmAku4JFj4qmeUnQpau0fhxZR5-2FlBxHm3IAIU829WS5LVuyigbcOIOIldhGqGMxGFv-2BQ-3DbG5r_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BDbYPoWWtOiv5U5E7qRHCvCRObPt0aS-2B9ZaCoT6KrEltb4v6KmywXoPs4qEhwy93CkR18bkIZ34-2BRXNBrwudelhmQkhhImP9ysLDdgnzo0h9mzgDxs0ZOT5cK0I-2FJ1I4pAdnJPQbLJKf0uDZQbwA6vwFc-2FppwX4sfKzL8CYORx7oaxZyIPWFaFa-2FLhrD5miYNWdPuCUQnldw7nODoJ47y-2Fn5Wli9vKbMg8eH0sdNLepFRQOkz-2F5gpEuiic-2FjeeExS">Unlocking Untapped Potential</a>, focuses on cultivating impactful internal, local, national, and global partnerships. The driving force behind building these extensive partnerships is the mission-driven commitment of FHSU to develop engaged global citizen leaders. Through the experiences the university and its partners create, students will develop essential leadership skills and a life-long commitment to “think globally and act locally.”Under the leadership of Interim Assistant Provost of Internationalization and Strategic Initiatives, Dr. Jeni McRay, the university is moving forward on three key fronts. The major student experience initiatives that Jeni and her Global Affairs/Civic Learning &amp; Engagement teams are developing focus on leadership development, global learning, and civic engagement.Leadership Development and Civic EngagementService learning, or educational experiences built around service to others, has long been a mainstay of the curriculum in the Department of Leadership Studies. Students majoring in this field must complete Leadership 310, a&nbsp;course designed to help move students from the study of leadership to actual participation in a leadership project. Students are asked to serve as citizen leaders in a local community project of their choice in conjunction with an existing organization.In 2021,&nbsp;Leadership Studies professor Dr. Donette Noble was asked to serve as the Director of Civic Learning and Engagement. She was charged with moving civic engagement from a student-led initiative to one supported by the entire university. Under this new model, she and her colleagues are identifying internal and external assets, identifying curricular and co-curricular initiatives, and building a collaborative community partnership network.Noble, her Civic Learning and Engagement co-chair, Forsyth Library Outreach Specialist Brittney Squire, and their colleagues aim to expand experiential civic learning (“learning by doing”) opportunities for FHSU students.Global LearningDeveloping opportunities for FHSU students from all walks of life and countries of origin is the core of what McRay and the Global Affairs team focus on daily. McRay employs nearly a dozen international students from several countries as global ambassadors. These ambassadors serve as the first points of contact for prospective international students interested in attending an American university.&nbsp;Global Ambassadors come from all over the world and often include students from China, Paraguay, Senegal, Nigeria, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.&nbsp;Luciana Mendoza is an international business and economics major from Paraguay who is committed to living the FHSU mission of engaged global citizenship and sustainability. Last year, she and Nuria Garcia, a former graduate student from Spain, competed in an event called the&nbsp;CEO Global Pitch Competition. Sponsored by the&nbsp;Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization (CEO), the CEO Global Pitch Competition invites student entrepreneurs from around the world to present their business plans to corporate CEOs and compete for a $20,000 first prize.&nbsp;Mendoza and Garcia created a sustainability-oriented business plan for a company they named “UPpreciate.” Their plan was built around refurbishing and repurposing used household items for discounted resale to college students. UPpreciate was one of 500 entries in the competition. Mendoza and Garcia won a trip to Chicago to pitch their business plan as one of 20 competition finalists. While they did not bring home first-place honors, they gained invaluable experience.“Experiences like the CEO Global Pitch Competition and the annual FHSU Epic Challenge entrepreneurial competition moves you to develop a new mindset,” said Mendoza. “I think it makes you more selfless and more caring about the world and future generations.”Next StepsFHSU plans to continue to focus on expanding academic and student life programs that develop leadership skills, foster a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, and deliver transformative global learning experiences. In the months ahead, faculty, staff, and students involved in this effort to live the mission of the university will focus on expanding essential partnerships here in Kansas and the world beyond and&nbsp;identifying innovative ways to include United Nations Sustainability Goals in the student experience.Plans are also underway to offer a new “Global Citizen Leader” credential. The credential will be built around leadership coursework, a community-based service-learning project, and a global experience (e.g. Study Abroad or Global Internship). Upon completion, students will deliver a formal presentation, earn a special notation on their official transcript, and be recognized during their graduation ceremony.&nbsp;McRay and Noble also plan to pursue two new Carnegie Foundation institutional classifications (“Leadership for Public Purpose” and “Community Engagement”) as a demonstration of FHSU’s comprehensive commitment to producing engaged global citizen leaders.

FHSU’s engaged global citizen leader initiative takes shape

Three FHSU student teams will advance to the finals of the annual $10K &nbsp;Faulkner Entrepreneurial Challenge for a Better Future. Following oral presentations by eight teams on March 25, the three finalists will present their business plans from 10 a.m.-noon Saturday at FHSU’s Hansen Hall.&nbsp;

The Faulkner Challenge is a business plan competition designed to develop entrepreneurial imagination and innovation in university students, regardless of major or interests. It is open to any new venture in the conceptual stage, the seed stage, or the startup stage. Teams are evaluated on their ability to identify market opportunities, value propositions, and sustainable competitive advantage.

The following are the eight presentations, with a brief synopsis of each.

Top three finalists (in alphabetical order)

Other presentations from the March 25 semi-final event:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680273240545.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThree FHSU student teams will advance to the finals of the annual $10K &nbsp;Faulkner Entrepreneurial Challenge for a Better Future. Following oral presentations by eight teams on March 25, the three finalists will present their business plans from 10 a.m.-noon Saturday at FHSU’s Hansen Hall.&nbsp;The Faulkner Challenge is a business plan competition designed to develop entrepreneurial imagination and innovation in university students, regardless of major or interests. It is open to any new venture in the conceptual stage, the seed stage, or the startup stage. Teams are evaluated on their ability to identify market opportunities, value propositions, and sustainable competitive advantage.The following are the eight presentations, with a brief synopsis of each.Top three finalists (in alphabetical order)<ul>
 <li>Innovia Construction, LLC 3D printed homes – building sustainable, high-quality homes for an affordable price. Team members: Max Weimer, Caitlin Leiker, Tanner Miller, and Alicia Feyerherm.</li><li>Salma Beauty – a sustainable makeup startup that draws inspiration from the beauty of Morocco. Team members: Fiorella Mendez, Diana Angarita, Bass Fall, and Mohamed Didi.</li><li>TransFortified – a website for transgender and nonbinary individuals to access direct peer support, legal information, health, and personal tips. Team member: PJ Stauffer.</li>
 </ul>Other presentations from the March 25 semi-final event:<ul>
 <li>Apollo Sports – a family-friendly sports-themed restaurant that sells sports team merchandise. Team: Reed Knitter</li><li>BIA – focusing on solving water quality issues around the world. Team: Tyler Preisser and Lincoln Myers.</li><li>Mid America Reproduction Solutions – offering services for selective breeding techniques for cattle producers. Team: Caleb McAfee</li><li>Tango – creating eco-friendly tote bags to eliminate plastic bag use. Team: Chelsie Rose, Luciana Mendoza, and Shelbie Ford</li><li>Tiger Claw Predator Management – focuses on managing coyotes and other predators in the Hays area. Team: Ethan McPherson.</li>
 </ul>

Fort Hays State students advance to Faulkner Challenge finals

Hays Police Department news release

On March 28 at approximately 10:22 p.m., the Hays Police Department received a report of a domestic disturbance in the 100 block of E. 19th, where a victim had been stabbed multiple times.

First responders from the Hays Police Department, Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and Ellis County Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene.

The victim was located inside the home, and he was bleeding profusely from his injuries.

It was determined that he had suffered over 15 stab wounds, including injuries to his neck, arms and chest area.

Ellis County EMS personnel began providing life-saving medical care and the victim was quickly transported to the Hays Medical Center Emergency Room.

The victim was admitted to the hospital. Upon arrival, officers learned that the suspect had fled the scene on foot.

The suspect was quickly identified as Collin Micheal McMillin, 22, Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680189341105.png" alt="McMillin has previous convictions for aggravated endangering a child and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. Ellis County photo" />
 <figcaption>McMillin has previous convictions for aggravated endangering a child and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. Ellis County photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police Department news releaseOn March 28 at approximately 10:22 p.m., the Hays Police Department received a report of a domestic disturbance in the 100 block of E. 19th, where a victim had been stabbed multiple times.First responders from the Hays Police Department, Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and Ellis County Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene.The victim was located inside the home, and he was bleeding profusely from his injuries.It was determined that he had suffered over 15 stab wounds, including injuries to his neck, arms and chest area.Ellis County EMS personnel began providing life-saving medical care and the victim was quickly transported to the Hays Medical Center Emergency Room.The victim was admitted to the hospital. Upon arrival, officers learned that the suspect had fled the scene on foot.The suspect was quickly identified as Collin Micheal McMillin, 22, Hays.Law enforcement officers from the Hays Police Department and the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office began searching the area for McMillin.At approximately 12:15 a.m., Sgt. Phillip Gage of the Hays Police Department located McMillin near the intersection of Fifth and Riley. Sgt. Gage was able to safely take McMillin into custody, who was still in possession of a knife at the time of his arrest. McMillin was transported to the Ellis County jail, where he is being held on the charges of attempted first-degree murder and domestic battery.His bond has been set at $1 million.McMillin is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.This case remains under investigation by the Hays Police Department Investigation Division.Anyone with information reference this case should contact Detective Chris Hancock at (785) 625-1030 or&nbsp;chancock@haysusa.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;UPDATED 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;to correct headline

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