Despite the fervent support the Republican leadership has given to the Value Them Both amendment, its fate on August 2 may not tell us much about the current Kansas GOP. But the Republican contest for Kansas attorney general, by contrast, may actually tell us a great deal.

Three candidates are campaigning for the Republican nomination: former Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who needs no introduction to Kansas voters; Kellie Warren, a state senator and attorney with a background in civil law; and Tony Mattivi, a former federal prosecutor with a long track record of criminal conviction on both the state and federal level. Mattivi, who polls put in third place in this race, makes his lack of a history of political engagement part of his campaign against Koback and Warren—and that is what makes this Republican fight so interesting.

It is not that Mattivi has no political opinions. His strong conservative beliefs—including firmly opposing abortion rights and strongly supporting gun rights—are prominently displayed in his campaign literature. And yet it is the fact that he also insists an attorney general should not spend their time on politics, always filing lawsuits against the Biden administration—as Kobach has promised, with Warren concurring—which presents Kansas Republicans with a difficult choice.

Two things are clear about Kobach. First, he has devoted Republican supporters who see in him, with his attacks on the threats supposedly posed by illegal immigrants and President Biden, a Kansas version of their beloved leader, Donald Trump. Second, those supporters do not constitute a majority of the Kansas Republican electorate, much less Kansas voters overall. He is not, in short, a consensus candidate—and lacking that consensus support, many other Republicans fear him as a divisive spoiler. At a recent Mattivi event in Wichita, one prominent Republican elected official stated with great confidence that, should Kobach win the nomination, Democrat Chris Mann’s election to the attorney general office would be assured.

I disagree with this official that a Kobach nomination would necessarily mean a loss for the Republicans in November, but the many prominent Republicans and conservative organizations behind Warren’s candidacy provides evidence of how widespread that fear is. Warren’s strategy is to reach out to the very same zealous conservatives who support Kobach, as well as the major donors who once did, with one simple argument: I’m actually electable, and Kobach isn’t.

Ordinary campaign politics suggest that when two conservative candidates fight over the same faction, a path opens up for moderate candidates to win. This, however, is not something Mattivi is doing—not officially, anyway. He knows the Kansas Republican primary electorate well, and knows that a moderate tone would open him up to fervent attack. And yet, perhaps taking a non-political tone instead when it come to national or cultural controversies, preferring to talk about fighting criminals rather than Value Them Both, is what passes for moderation in 2022. (That the abortion amendment will likely bring to the polls more of Kansas’s small Republican moderate population than is typical for an August election may be part of that quiet calculation too.)&nbsp;

The attorney general contest shows us Kansas Republicans playing a guessing game with the future of their party. Will Kobach’s ideological convictions return him to power? Are his extreme opinions a winner, so long as someone else expresses them? Or are a plurality of Kansas Republican voters supportive of a conservatism that, while passionate, focuses on the job rather than fighting a culture war? Mattivi’s bet on the latter is a long one, but an admirable one too.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583339056495.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite the fervent support the Republican leadership has given to the Value Them Both amendment, its fate on August 2 may not tell us much about the current Kansas GOP. But the Republican contest for Kansas attorney general, by contrast, may actually tell us a great deal.Three candidates are campaigning for the Republican nomination: former Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who needs no introduction to Kansas voters; Kellie Warren, a state senator and attorney with a background in civil law; and Tony Mattivi, a former federal prosecutor with a long track record of criminal conviction on both the state and federal level. Mattivi, who polls put in third place in this race, makes his lack of a history of political engagement part of his campaign against Koback and Warren—and that is what makes this Republican fight so interesting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It is not that Mattivi has no political opinions. His strong conservative beliefs—including firmly opposing abortion rights and strongly supporting gun rights—are prominently displayed in his campaign literature. And yet it is the fact that he also insists an attorney general should not spend their time on politics, always filing lawsuits against the Biden administration—as Kobach has promised, with Warren concurring—which presents Kansas Republicans with a difficult choice.Two things are clear about Kobach. First, he has devoted Republican supporters who see in him, with his attacks on the threats supposedly posed by illegal immigrants and President Biden, a Kansas version of their beloved leader, Donald Trump. Second, those supporters do not constitute a majority of the Kansas Republican electorate, much less Kansas voters overall. He is not, in short, a consensus candidate—and lacking that consensus support, many other Republicans fear him as a divisive spoiler. At a recent Mattivi event in Wichita, one prominent Republican elected official stated with great confidence that, should Kobach win the nomination, Democrat Chris Mann’s election to the attorney general office would be assured.I disagree with this official that a Kobach nomination would necessarily mean a loss for the Republicans in November, but the many prominent Republicans and conservative organizations behind Warren’s candidacy provides evidence of how widespread that fear is. Warren’s strategy is to reach out to the very same zealous conservatives who support Kobach, as well as the major donors who once did, with one simple argument: I’m actually electable, and Kobach isn’t.Ordinary campaign politics suggest that when two conservative candidates fight over the same faction, a path opens up for moderate candidates to win. This, however, is not something Mattivi is doing—not officially, anyway. He knows the Kansas Republican primary electorate well, and knows that a moderate tone would open him up to fervent attack. And yet, perhaps taking a non-political tone instead when it come to national or cultural controversies, preferring to talk about fighting criminals rather than Value Them Both, is what passes for moderation in 2022. (That the abortion amendment will likely bring to the polls more of Kansas’s small Republican moderate population than is typical for an August election may be part of that quiet calculation too.)&nbsp;The attorney general contest shows us Kansas Republicans playing a guessing game with the future of their party. Will Kobach’s ideological convictions return him to power? Are his extreme opinions a winner, so long as someone else expresses them? Or are a plurality of Kansas Republican voters supportive of a conservatism that, while passionate, focuses on the job rather than fighting a culture war? Mattivi’s bet on the latter is a long one, but an admirable one too.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Politics of a (partly) non-political AG candidate

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658515673783.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

Beginning Monday, Fort Street will be closed just north 
of Seventh Street for pavement repairs. Seventh Street will remain open. See the traffic flow map above.

For more information, call (785) 628-7350

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658501735827.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Beginning Monday, Fort Street will be closed just north 
of Seventh Street for pavement repairs. Seventh Street will remain open. See the traffic flow map above.For more information, call (785) 628-7350

Portion of Fort closed for repairs beginning this week

High Plains Mental Health Center, in cooperation with the federal department of Health and Human Services, will host a farm stress listening tour on July 28. The event will be from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn convention center, 221 W. 43rd. 

The event is a stop on the National Tour to Strengthen Mental Health and is open to the public. Officials with the federal government will be present to hear from a panel of local residents who work in the agribusiness industry. Topics of discussion will include farm/agriculture stress and challenges facing rural health care services and accessibility.&nbsp;

The event will center around a panel discussion consisting of regional health care workers, local farmers and agriculture producers, and professionals who work in the agribusiness industry. There also will be a presentation by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services to provide current state-level statistics and resources. There will be a time for questions and media availability following the panel discussion.

“We are pleased to bring this event to northwest Kansas and are glad the federal government is paying attention to the issues of farm stress and rural mental health as they consider federal funding and policy to meet increased needs and challenges,” said Walt Hill, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center. “We want to thank our 10 local panelists for being willing to share their time and their voices to raise awareness of these issues.”

Panelists will include representatives from High Plains Mental Health Center, First Care Clinic, Kansas Farm Bureau, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Fort Hays State University, K-State Research and Extension/Cottonwood District and The Animal Hospital, in addition to several local farmers, producers and agronomists.&nbsp;

The Department of HHS began the National Tour to Strengthen Mental Health in March to address mental health challenges that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including substance use, youth mental health and suicide. The stop in Hays will focus on challenges unique to rural areas and agriculture producers. Farming and ranching are known to be stressful occupations due in part to so many factors producers cannot control, such as climate, market prices and high start-up costs.&nbsp;

Attendees will include: Joseph Palm, Regional Director, HHS Intergovernmental and External Affairs; Kimberly Nelson, Regional Administrator of Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration; Nancy Rios, Regional Administrator of Health Resources and Services Administration; Nickolas Clasen, HHS Intergovernmental &amp; External Affairs; and Christy Davis, Kansas State Director of USDA Rural Development.

High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive behavioral health program to the residents of&nbsp; northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578344475899.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseHigh Plains Mental Health Center, in cooperation with the federal department of Health and Human Services, will host a farm stress listening tour on July 28. The event will be from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn convention center, 221 W. 43rd. The event is a stop on the National Tour to Strengthen Mental Health and is open to the public. Officials with the federal government will be present to hear from a panel of local residents who work in the agribusiness industry. Topics of discussion will include farm/agriculture stress and challenges facing rural health care services and accessibility.&nbsp;The event will center around a panel discussion consisting of regional health care workers, local farmers and agriculture producers, and professionals who work in the agribusiness industry. There also will be a presentation by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services to provide current state-level statistics and resources. There will be a time for questions and media availability following the panel discussion.“We are pleased to bring this event to northwest Kansas and are glad the federal government is paying attention to the issues of farm stress and rural mental health as they consider federal funding and policy to meet increased needs and challenges,” said Walt Hill, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center. “We want to thank our 10 local panelists for being willing to share their time and their voices to raise awareness of these issues.”Panelists will include representatives from High Plains Mental Health Center, First Care Clinic, Kansas Farm Bureau, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Fort Hays State University, K-State Research and Extension/Cottonwood District and The Animal Hospital, in addition to several local farmers, producers and agronomists.&nbsp;The Department of HHS began the National Tour to Strengthen Mental Health in March to address mental health challenges that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including substance use, youth mental health and suicide. The stop in Hays will focus on challenges unique to rural areas and agriculture producers. Farming and ranching are known to be stressful occupations due in part to so many factors producers cannot control, such as climate, market prices and high start-up costs.&nbsp;Attendees will include: Joseph Palm, Regional Director, HHS Intergovernmental and External Affairs; Kimberly Nelson, Regional Administrator of Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration; Nancy Rios, Regional Administrator of Health Resources and Services Administration; Nickolas Clasen, HHS Intergovernmental &amp; External Affairs; and Christy Davis, Kansas State Director of USDA Rural Development.High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive behavioral health program to the residents of&nbsp; northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

High Plains to host National Tour to Strengthen Mental Health event

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A short work session for Hays city commissioners Thursday evening included an agreement to continue work on an ordinance establishing another Rural Housing District (RHID) in Hays at Fourth and Fort Streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"This is the finish line of the application," Hays Finance Director Kim Rupp told the commission.

He noted that the local developer has undergone a name change during the process.

"It is [now] Michael D. Graham Rentals. That is the name change from what we have been presenting as Turnkey Properties, but it's strictly administrative in purpose, and has no bearing on the public hearing for next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's still the same property, same project. Just a change in name."&nbsp;

The project involves proposed construction of four structures with a total of 36 apartments on the property directly west of the former Washington Grade School in downtown Hays.

The developer seeks reimbursement of certain RHID-eligible project costs&nbsp;from RHID revenues&nbsp;on a pay-as-you-go basis for 25 years.

Total project cost is estimated to be $3.46 million with $414,550 of eligible for RHID reimbursement.

"They're estimating over that 25-year period the incremental property tax revenues on the site will generate approximately $622,500," Rupp explained. "So it's proposed to exceed what would be needed, so it's possible it (the RHID) wouldn't need the full 25 years."

Under Hays' RHID policy, the developer advances all costs of the project and is reimbursed for eligible costs&nbsp;from the RHID revenues.&nbsp;The city will not issue general&nbsp;obligation or special obligation bonds for the project.

Commissioners also briefly discussed the draft 2023 budget. 

City Manager Toby Dougherty said there were no changes from the commission's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ec69308c-3c0c-4622-bb60-4597cde67f60">first look at the budget</a> earlier this month.

They will talk specifically about the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f81ebb2d-01aa-451a-a37b-77e903c58d3a">funding requests from outside agencies</a> at the August 4 meeting.&nbsp;The total amount requested by the groups - $556,116 - is nearly $72,000 more than what was allocated last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658560138683.png" alt="Hays developer Michael Graham plans to construct four structures containing 36 apartments at 4th and Fort Street directly west of the former Washington Elementary School. A public hearing for the RHID request is set for&nbsp; July 28." />
 <figcaption>Hays developer Michael Graham plans to construct four structures containing 36 apartments at 4th and Fort Street directly west of the former Washington Elementary School. A public hearing for the RHID request is set for&nbsp; July 28.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA short work session for Hays city commissioners Thursday evening included an agreement to continue work on an ordinance establishing another Rural Housing District (RHID) in Hays at Fourth and Fort Streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;"This is the finish line of the application," Hays Finance Director Kim Rupp told the commission.He noted that the local developer has undergone a name change during the process."It is [now] Michael D. Graham Rentals. That is the name change from what we have been presenting as Turnkey Properties, but it's strictly administrative in purpose, and has no bearing on the public hearing for next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's still the same property, same project. Just a change in name."&nbsp;The project involves proposed construction of four structures with a total of 36 apartments on the property directly west of the former Washington Grade School in downtown Hays.The developer seeks reimbursement of certain RHID-eligible project costs&nbsp;from RHID revenues&nbsp;on a pay-as-you-go basis for 25 years.Total project cost is estimated to be $3.46 million with $414,550 of eligible for RHID reimbursement.<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sat Jul 23 2022 02:51:35 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Rhid 4th And Fort"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M55S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/8v6xKmGr-1920.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/8v6xKmGr-AMBVbJQD.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/8v6xKmGr-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Rhid 4th And Fort" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>"They're estimating over that 25-year period the incremental property tax revenues on the site will generate approximately $622,500," Rupp explained. "So it's proposed to exceed what would be needed, so it's possible it (the RHID) wouldn't need the full 25 years." Under Hays' RHID policy, the developer advances all costs of the project and is reimbursed for eligible costs&nbsp;from the RHID revenues.&nbsp;The city will not issue general&nbsp;obligation or special obligation bonds for the project.Commissioners also briefly discussed the draft 2023 budget. City Manager Toby Dougherty said there were no changes from the commission's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ec69308c-3c0c-4622-bb60-4597cde67f60">first look at the budget</a> earlier this month. They will talk specifically about the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f81ebb2d-01aa-451a-a37b-77e903c58d3a">funding requests from outside agencies</a> at the August 4 meeting.&nbsp;The total amount requested by the groups - $556,116 - is nearly $72,000 more than what was allocated last year.

🎥 'At the finish line' for another RHID housing plan in Hays 

Ellis County is in a drought warning and the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor map for Kansas shows the entire county (3 down, 5 right from upper left) in a moderate to severe drought.&nbsp;

As of today, Hays is 4 inches behind in average annual rainfall.&nbsp;

Official statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town show the 153-year cumulative average moisture through July is 14.60 inches.&nbsp; So far in 2022, Hays has received 10.68 inches of moisture.

The month of July averages 3.33 inches of rain in Hays. With eight days left in the month, just 1.33 inches of rain has fallen.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bac6b762-baa2-46ca-a91a-d58ee033fdad">Heat advisories</a> have been issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City for Friday and Saturday for southwest Kansas, including Hays. The forecast is calling for chances of precipitation of 20 to 50 percent Sunday to Thursday.

Gov. Laura Kelly approved <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/admin-pages/news-content/2022/06/27/governor-declares-drought-emergency-warnings-and-watches-for-kansas-counties">updated drought declarations</a> for Kansas counties on June 27. All 105 counties are either in watch, warning or emergency status. Ellis County is in a drought warning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658499817707.png" alt="All of Ellis County (3 down, 5 right from upper left corner) is experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>All of Ellis County (3 down, 5 right from upper left corner) is experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostEllis County is in a drought warning and the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor map for Kansas shows the entire county (3 down, 5 right from upper left) in a moderate to severe drought.&nbsp;As of today, Hays is 4 inches behind in average annual rainfall.&nbsp;Official statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town show the 153-year cumulative average moisture through July is 14.60 inches.&nbsp; So far in 2022, Hays has received 10.68 inches of moisture.The month of July averages 3.33 inches of rain in Hays. With eight days left in the month, just 1.33 inches of rain has fallen.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bac6b762-baa2-46ca-a91a-d58ee033fdad">Heat advisories</a> have been issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City for Friday and Saturday for southwest Kansas, including Hays. The forecast is calling for chances of precipitation of 20 to 50 percent Sunday to Thursday.Gov. Laura Kelly approved <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/admin-pages/news-content/2022/06/27/governor-declares-drought-emergency-warnings-and-watches-for-kansas-counties">updated drought declarations</a> for Kansas counties on June 27. All 105 counties are either in watch, warning or emergency status. Ellis County is in a drought warning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658500308582.png" alt="Ellis County is in a drought warning." />
 <figcaption>Ellis County is in a drought warning.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays, Ellis Co. remain in drought; 4 inches behind average moisture

On a beautiful spring afternoon in Downtown Hays, Joseph Boeckner met with his kindergarten teacher, Marilyn Davidson, to surprise her with news that he had started a scholarship in her name.&nbsp;

Although he was a student in Davidson’s class nearly 30 years ago, Boeckner, who now owns several Hays businesses, said it was Davidson’s teaching style and patience that led to his success later in life.&nbsp;

Davidson, a lifelong Hays educator, is a beloved presence in her classroom and to those who know her in the community. From an early age, Davidson mirrored her parents, both teachers, in giving lessons to her stuffed animals on the stairs of her childhood home. She later combined her passion for education, music, and working with young children to shape her career.

Davidson first attended Southwestern University to study music and later pursued her master’s degree in elementary education at Fort Hays State University over the summers while raising her family until her graduation in 1971. Boeckner met Davidson in 1992 and describes her as “a very engaged and thoughtful teacher. She genuinely cared about her students, and it showed.”

Davidson’s creativity and musical ability influenced her learning environment. She often spent her summers crafting kimonos, igloos, trees, and castles to inspire her students to learn about other cultures and engage with learning key concepts. She then tied learning with music to develop rhythm and other sensory and reading skills.&nbsp;

After a few years of teaching kindergarten, she moved on to first grade. Since her retirement from education, Davidson continues to volunteer her time and teaches reading and music at Wilson Elementary. Davidson’s care and attention to her young students exemplify the commitment to teaching Boeckner hopes this scholarship instills in future educators.&nbsp;

“Educating is being able to see the progression from not knowing anything to knowing how to read. And reading is a big piece of people’s lives,” Davidson said.

Boeckner fondly remembers his time spent with Davidson and their relationship. “She was a great role model in addition to being a great teacher. We’ve stayed in touch over the years, and I occasionally went back to her classroom to help with projects. She believed in me at a young age. There was never any question about who my favorite teacher was,” he said.

&nbsp;After high school, life became busy for Boeckner, who joined the military and later began starting his businesses, which caused a disconnect with Davidson. When Davidson’s husband of 57 years, Harvey, passed away in December 2021, Boeckner began to reflect on the impact she had on him and wanted to pay it forward. It was then he began planning the establishment of the Marilyn G. Davidson scholarship.

The endowed scholarship seeks to support students pursuing a degree in teacher education. It is available to on-campus and online students, full or part-time, majoring in teacher education.&nbsp;

While preference is given to students who have expressed an interest in working in Ellis County schools, other students may still receive the award if that preference is not met. Students are welcome to apply each year for the renewal of this award.

Davidson hopes the award encourages students to pursue teaching and that it will help students in need afford their education.&nbsp;

“Teachers will always be needed. However, passionate and impactful teachers like Mrs. Davidson are not a dime a dozen. We need teachers who truly care about the students and appreciate all that Hays has to offer. Hopefully, this scholarship helps remove a barrier to entry for a few teachers who can step into those big shoes,” Boeckner said.

Boeckner is a serial entrepreneur with several Hays businesses, including Joe Bob Outfitters, HaysTees, New Age Services, and, most recently, Blackhawk Motorsports. He and his wife, Jodi, also invest in several other businesses around town. On top of their many business ventures, Joseph and Jodi have two children, Michael and Hadley.

To learn more about how you can make a difference in your community by establishing a scholarship, please contact the Fort Hays State University Foundation by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-5620. You can also visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDSAKvxVcchtfV1543l0Kpl6aRGqIctSqa6Magmpvb7gYDNQ_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemY-2FKfiKfq6XWonyufLFitH-2BM9ysV5IY6AD12Rg4slmnrgURE-2FnY0Sc0GhC15B-2Fi6ogOhqgM9xwSUsotumkl7AimebqEAYdKqEn3a7GGQrgECeq4OAq7po9rhx2qPJS8lGpb6VqwIbAWBkZj1VwnGGFNJYejXE2AERX6dwhXKHVWyxwVjkk0JdY-2BkJ5e7IBZxA4YfnsMDpnxMN0ZRmDgkOFclloRLF2z0ojbubl7MvB6HWgAOi2aKLzWGbea-2F6th05BuPfGbFa-2FrijRGmEF-2Fppew-3D-3D">https://foundation.fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658259068853.png" alt="Davidson and Boeckner" />
 <figcaption>Davidson and Boeckner</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU FoundationOn a beautiful spring afternoon in Downtown Hays, Joseph Boeckner met with his kindergarten teacher, Marilyn Davidson, to surprise her with news that he had started a scholarship in her name.&nbsp;Although he was a student in Davidson’s class nearly 30 years ago, Boeckner, who now owns several Hays businesses, said it was Davidson’s teaching style and patience that led to his success later in life.&nbsp;Davidson, a lifelong Hays educator, is a beloved presence in her classroom and to those who know her in the community. From an early age, Davidson mirrored her parents, both teachers, in giving lessons to her stuffed animals on the stairs of her childhood home. She later combined her passion for education, music, and working with young children to shape her career.Davidson first attended Southwestern University to study music and later pursued her master’s degree in elementary education at Fort Hays State University over the summers while raising her family until her graduation in 1971. Boeckner met Davidson in 1992 and describes her as “a very engaged and thoughtful teacher. She genuinely cared about her students, and it showed.”Davidson’s creativity and musical ability influenced her learning environment. She often spent her summers crafting kimonos, igloos, trees, and castles to inspire her students to learn about other cultures and engage with learning key concepts. She then tied learning with music to develop rhythm and other sensory and reading skills.&nbsp;After a few years of teaching kindergarten, she moved on to first grade. Since her retirement from education, Davidson continues to volunteer her time and teaches reading and music at Wilson Elementary. Davidson’s care and attention to her young students exemplify the commitment to teaching Boeckner hopes this scholarship instills in future educators.&nbsp;“Educating is being able to see the progression from not knowing anything to knowing how to read. And reading is a big piece of people’s lives,” Davidson said.Boeckner fondly remembers his time spent with Davidson and their relationship. “She was a great role model in addition to being a great teacher. We’ve stayed in touch over the years, and I occasionally went back to her classroom to help with projects. She believed in me at a young age. There was never any question about who my favorite teacher was,” he said.&nbsp;After high school, life became busy for Boeckner, who joined the military and later began starting his businesses, which caused a disconnect with Davidson. When Davidson’s husband of 57 years, Harvey, passed away in December 2021, Boeckner began to reflect on the impact she had on him and wanted to pay it forward. It was then he began planning the establishment of the Marilyn G. Davidson scholarship.The endowed scholarship seeks to support students pursuing a degree in teacher education. It is available to on-campus and online students, full or part-time, majoring in teacher education.&nbsp;While preference is given to students who have expressed an interest in working in Ellis County schools, other students may still receive the award if that preference is not met. Students are welcome to apply each year for the renewal of this award.Davidson hopes the award encourages students to pursue teaching and that it will help students in need afford their education.&nbsp;“Teachers will always be needed. However, passionate and impactful teachers like Mrs. Davidson are not a dime a dozen. We need teachers who truly care about the students and appreciate all that Hays has to offer. Hopefully, this scholarship helps remove a barrier to entry for a few teachers who can step into those big shoes,” Boeckner said.Boeckner is a serial entrepreneur with several Hays businesses, including Joe Bob Outfitters, HaysTees, New Age Services, and, most recently, Blackhawk Motorsports. He and his wife, Jodi, also invest in several other businesses around town. On top of their many business ventures, Joseph and Jodi have two children, Michael and Hadley.To learn more about how you can make a difference in your community by establishing a scholarship, please contact the Fort Hays State University Foundation by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-5620. You can also visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDSAKvxVcchtfV1543l0Kpl6aRGqIctSqa6Magmpvb7gYDNQ_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemY-2FKfiKfq6XWonyufLFitH-2BM9ysV5IY6AD12Rg4slmnrgURE-2FnY0Sc0GhC15B-2Fi6ogOhqgM9xwSUsotumkl7AimebqEAYdKqEn3a7GGQrgECeq4OAq7po9rhx2qPJS8lGpb6VqwIbAWBkZj1VwnGGFNJYejXE2AERX6dwhXKHVWyxwVjkk0JdY-2BkJ5e7IBZxA4YfnsMDpnxMN0ZRmDgkOFclloRLF2z0ojbubl7MvB6HWgAOi2aKLzWGbea-2F6th05BuPfGbFa-2FrijRGmEF-2Fppew-3D-3D">https://foundation.fhsu.edu</a>.

Hays entrepreneur honors inspiring educator with FHSU scholarship

TOPEKA — Kansas Tourism has released an inspiring promotional video exploring the state’s rich natural history and examining the fossils and rocks that tell the story of an ancient ocean-covered Kansas.

"Secret Kansas: Uncovering Our History" is the sixth episode in the&nbsp;“To The Stories” series&nbsp;which explores the places and people that make Kansas an exciting and unique place to plan an adventure.

This video episode explores the Kansas prairie that once was covered by an ocean that stretched from the Arctic to the Caribbean. Receded waters left layers of sediment that preserved prehistoric creatures, including the state marine fossil, the Tylosaurus, and the state flying fossil, the Pteranodon.

Watch the video episode&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cmF2ZWxrcy5jb20vdGhpbmdzLXRvLWRvL3N0b3JpZXMtc2VyaWVzL3NlY3JldC1rYW5zYXMvIn0.LHJkjv-oIqN5n4WfqaVW8K0ggjmuTWTQ2H77LVxfNwg/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">here</a>.

“Kansas has a rich and vibrant natural history, and we are fortunate that we can enjoy and share these majestic rock formations that are located right here in our state,”&nbsp;said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “In addition, our state is filled with brilliant and dedicated people who preserve these sites and have discovered incredible fossils – some of which can only be found in Kansas.”

The natural history video was filmed at several Kansas locations, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc3RyYXZlbC5vcmcvY2FzdGxlcm9jay5odG0ifQ.8WHAgysb3HbaSU3pbzIbclB73M-CgLNjZpK_cyAy8uk/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Castle Rock Badlands</a>&nbsp;in Quinter, the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtleXN0b25lZ2FsbGVyeS5jb20vIn0.3VmxFvgXtf4Vq-9sTt2npx1zrGsV9WELn__2Yr3tPgI/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Keystone Gallery</a>&nbsp;in Oakley,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzb3V0ZG9vcnMuY29tL1N0YXRlLVBhcmtzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy9IaXN0b3JpYy1MYWtlLVNjb3R0In0.s5pc9aS0rdFReySAJNHeCm2PwlclzJWnICru0jbP-z8/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Lake Scott State Park</a>&nbsp;in Scott County,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5uYXR1cmUub3JnL2VuLXVzL2dldC1pbnZvbHZlZC9ob3ctdG8taGVscC9wbGFjZXMtd2UtcHJvdGVjdC9saXR0bGUtamVydXNhbGVtLWJhZGxhbmRzLXN0YXRlLXBhcmsvIn0.KzdhZ-3LNW4Q1eZUHRBoqqBgtzpOHaPQrBPLXAwTRHs/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park</a>&nbsp;in Oakley,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc3RyYXZlbC5vcmcvbW9udW1lbnRyb2Nrcy5odG0ifQ.c_lrBm29sQqWEl_Qab2aG_fWl3m7u3LnKLENHbw5HKo/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Monument Rocks</a>&nbsp;in Gove County,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzb3V0ZG9vcnMuY29tL1N0YXRlLVBhcmtzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy9NdXNocm9vbS1Sb2NrIn0.BLAxCgfh1TWUj7WAsOdZBQtr9rGPlnH6tB06957MNqs/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Mushroom Rock State Park</a>&nbsp;in Brookville and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3N0ZXJuYmVyZy5maHN1LmVkdS8ifQ.bq0G9SO0wNdlniO7o9YIGfqGinwlDi28taSV3Kdke0A/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>&nbsp;in Hays.

“We are grateful to everyone who helped tell the story of Kansas’ natural history by sharing their knowledge,”&nbsp;said Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe. “Their passion comes through in the video and we believe it will spark a new generation of enthusiastic preservationists and visitors.”

Viewers are encouraged to respond by sharing the video and tagging their friends to plan a Kansas natural history adventure. All adventures should prioritize respecting the delicate formations — understanding that some of the attractions are located on private property with specific public access guidelines. Visitors should follow all posted park rules to preserve these magnificent sites for future generations.&nbsp;

Other episodes in the&nbsp;“To The Stories” Series&nbsp;can be found by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cmF2ZWxrcy5jb20vdGhpbmdzLXRvLWRvL3N0b3JpZXMtc2VyaWVzLyJ9.daFfptIFBHu6w6C0XzPrcqXzgUrc6Ywm8O0wZAjlHFI/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">TravelKS.com/things-to-do/stories-series/</a>.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eel8qRQN6Zo"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA — Kansas Tourism has released an inspiring promotional video exploring the state’s rich natural history and examining the fossils and rocks that tell the story of an ancient ocean-covered Kansas."Secret Kansas: Uncovering Our History" is the sixth episode in the&nbsp;“To The Stories” series&nbsp;which explores the places and people that make Kansas an exciting and unique place to plan an adventure.This video episode explores the Kansas prairie that once was covered by an ocean that stretched from the Arctic to the Caribbean. Receded waters left layers of sediment that preserved prehistoric creatures, including the state marine fossil, the Tylosaurus, and the state flying fossil, the Pteranodon.Watch the video episode&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cmF2ZWxrcy5jb20vdGhpbmdzLXRvLWRvL3N0b3JpZXMtc2VyaWVzL3NlY3JldC1rYW5zYXMvIn0.LHJkjv-oIqN5n4WfqaVW8K0ggjmuTWTQ2H77LVxfNwg/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">here</a>.“Kansas has a rich and vibrant natural history, and we are fortunate that we can enjoy and share these majestic rock formations that are located right here in our state,”&nbsp;said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “In addition, our state is filled with brilliant and dedicated people who preserve these sites and have discovered incredible fossils – some of which can only be found in Kansas.”The natural history video was filmed at several Kansas locations, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc3RyYXZlbC5vcmcvY2FzdGxlcm9jay5odG0ifQ.8WHAgysb3HbaSU3pbzIbclB73M-CgLNjZpK_cyAy8uk/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Castle Rock Badlands</a>&nbsp;in Quinter, the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtleXN0b25lZ2FsbGVyeS5jb20vIn0.3VmxFvgXtf4Vq-9sTt2npx1zrGsV9WELn__2Yr3tPgI/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Keystone Gallery</a>&nbsp;in Oakley,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzb3V0ZG9vcnMuY29tL1N0YXRlLVBhcmtzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy9IaXN0b3JpYy1MYWtlLVNjb3R0In0.s5pc9aS0rdFReySAJNHeCm2PwlclzJWnICru0jbP-z8/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Lake Scott State Park</a>&nbsp;in Scott County,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5uYXR1cmUub3JnL2VuLXVzL2dldC1pbnZvbHZlZC9ob3ctdG8taGVscC9wbGFjZXMtd2UtcHJvdGVjdC9saXR0bGUtamVydXNhbGVtLWJhZGxhbmRzLXN0YXRlLXBhcmsvIn0.KzdhZ-3LNW4Q1eZUHRBoqqBgtzpOHaPQrBPLXAwTRHs/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park</a>&nbsp;in Oakley,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc3RyYXZlbC5vcmcvbW9udW1lbnRyb2Nrcy5odG0ifQ.c_lrBm29sQqWEl_Qab2aG_fWl3m7u3LnKLENHbw5HKo/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Monument Rocks</a>&nbsp;in Gove County,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzb3V0ZG9vcnMuY29tL1N0YXRlLVBhcmtzL0xvY2F0aW9ucy9NdXNocm9vbS1Sb2NrIn0.BLAxCgfh1TWUj7WAsOdZBQtr9rGPlnH6tB06957MNqs/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Mushroom Rock State Park</a>&nbsp;in Brookville and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3N0ZXJuYmVyZy5maHN1LmVkdS8ifQ.bq0G9SO0wNdlniO7o9YIGfqGinwlDi28taSV3Kdke0A/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>&nbsp;in Hays.“We are grateful to everyone who helped tell the story of Kansas’ natural history by sharing their knowledge,”&nbsp;said Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe. “Their passion comes through in the video and we believe it will spark a new generation of enthusiastic preservationists and visitors.”Viewers are encouraged to respond by sharing the video and tagging their friends to plan a Kansas natural history adventure. All adventures should prioritize respecting the delicate formations — understanding that some of the attractions are located on private property with specific public access guidelines. Visitors should follow all posted park rules to preserve these magnificent sites for future generations.&nbsp;Other episodes in the&nbsp;“To The Stories” Series&nbsp;can be found by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjM3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cmF2ZWxrcy5jb20vdGhpbmdzLXRvLWRvL3N0b3JpZXMtc2VyaWVzLyJ9.daFfptIFBHu6w6C0XzPrcqXzgUrc6Ywm8O0wZAjlHFI/s/1372079104/br/141201217409-l">TravelKS.com/things-to-do/stories-series/</a>.

🎥 NW Kan. sites featured in latest Kansas Tourism episode

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658515339764.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>

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

From open plains to outer space, Ron Evans experienced a remarkable journey. He was a Kansan who played a record-setting role in the United States’ final mission to the moon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The year was 1972. NASA had planned for a series of moon missions but budget limitations cancelled additional lunar flights. Instead, NASA changed the focus of future flights to the space shuttle and lower earth orbital flights.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NASA moved forward with what would be the final deep space manned mission to date. It was named Apollo 17. The person selected to serve as command module pilot on Apollo 17 was a Kansan, Ron Evans.&nbsp;

Evans was born in the rural northwest Kansas community of St. Francis, population 1,329 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Evans had two younger brothers, Larry and Jay. When Larry came down with liver cancer, the family relocated to Topeka to be closer to treatment. Unfortunately, Larry passed away in 1951.&nbsp;

Brother Jay played football for K-State. By his senior year, he was team captain and was second in the Big 8 in yards receiving. Jay went on to play in the NFL for the Denver Broncos.&nbsp;

Jay left pro football to join the Marines during the Vietnam war era and became one of the most highly decorated Marines of the Vietnam War.&nbsp;He received the combat medal, Navy Cross, Silver Star, three Purple Hearts, three Air Medals, Combat Gold Wings and three personal citations from the Vietnamese government, one of which was the Cross of Gallantry with four gold stars -- the equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor from the U.S.&nbsp;

Ron chose to study electrical engineering at the University of Kansas. In order to finance his studies, he joined the Navy ROTC program. Part of that program involved a tour of a naval air station in Texas, which inspired him to become a naval aviator. He became a fighter pilot and flew more than 100 missions during the Vietnam War. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga.&nbsp;

In 1966, Ron Evans joined the astronaut corps. He became a member of the backup crew for Apollo 14 and, in 1972, was selected as the command module pilot of Apollo 17. This would prove to be the last manned flight to the moon.&nbsp;

As command module pilot, he remained on the command module while his two fellow crew members made a landing on the surface of the moon. They spent three days on the lunar surface and deployed numerous scientific instruments before rejoining Evans on the command module for the trip back home to earth.&nbsp;

During the flight back to earth, Evans conducted a spacewalk to retrieve materials from the service module. Upon leaving the space capsule and seeing the vastness of space, he uttered words which truly sound like a Kansas kid: “Hot diggety dog,” he said.&nbsp;

His spacewalk is one of only three to occur in deep space and holds the record as the spacewalk performed at the greatest distance from any planetary body. He also holds the record for the most time spent by any human in lunar orbit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the command module splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, the astronauts were retrieved by the crew of a Navy ship. It was none other than the USS Ticonderoga, the very ship where Evans had served six years before.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Evans worked on the development of the space shuttle before retiring from the Navy and NASA. He worked in industry before suffering a stroke and passing away suddenly in his sleep in 1990.&nbsp;

Evans was one of 24 astronauts to have flown to the moon and one of 12 to have flown to the moon without landing on it. He remains the last person in history to have orbited the moon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the open plains to outer space, Kansan Ron Evans experienced a remarkable journey in life. We salute Ron Evans and all those who make a difference by exploring the universe or searching for new discoveries at home.&nbsp;

All I can say about his record-setting career is, “Hot diggety dog.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658323566649.png" alt="Evans" />
 <figcaption>Evans</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;From open plains to outer space, Ron Evans experienced a remarkable journey. He was a Kansan who played a record-setting role in the United States’ final mission to the moon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The year was 1972. NASA had planned for a series of moon missions but budget limitations cancelled additional lunar flights. Instead, NASA changed the focus of future flights to the space shuttle and lower earth orbital flights.&nbsp;Meanwhile, NASA moved forward with what would be the final deep space manned mission to date. It was named Apollo 17. The person selected to serve as command module pilot on Apollo 17 was a Kansan, Ron Evans.&nbsp;Evans was born in the rural northwest Kansas community of St. Francis, population 1,329 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Evans had two younger brothers, Larry and Jay. When Larry came down with liver cancer, the family relocated to Topeka to be closer to treatment. Unfortunately, Larry passed away in 1951.&nbsp;Brother Jay played football for K-State. By his senior year, he was team captain and was second in the Big 8 in yards receiving. Jay went on to play in the NFL for the Denver Broncos.&nbsp;Jay left pro football to join the Marines during the Vietnam war era and became one of the most highly decorated Marines of the Vietnam War.&nbsp;He received the combat medal, Navy Cross, Silver Star, three Purple Hearts, three Air Medals, Combat Gold Wings and three personal citations from the Vietnamese government, one of which was the Cross of Gallantry with four gold stars -- the equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor from the U.S.&nbsp;Ron chose to study electrical engineering at the University of Kansas. In order to finance his studies, he joined the Navy ROTC program. Part of that program involved a tour of a naval air station in Texas, which inspired him to become a naval aviator. He became a fighter pilot and flew more than 100 missions during the Vietnam War. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga.&nbsp;In 1966, Ron Evans joined the astronaut corps. He became a member of the backup crew for Apollo 14 and, in 1972, was selected as the command module pilot of Apollo 17. This would prove to be the last manned flight to the moon.&nbsp;As command module pilot, he remained on the command module while his two fellow crew members made a landing on the surface of the moon. They spent three days on the lunar surface and deployed numerous scientific instruments before rejoining Evans on the command module for the trip back home to earth.&nbsp;During the flight back to earth, Evans conducted a spacewalk to retrieve materials from the service module. Upon leaving the space capsule and seeing the vastness of space, he uttered words which truly sound like a Kansas kid: “Hot diggety dog,” he said.&nbsp;His spacewalk is one of only three to occur in deep space and holds the record as the spacewalk performed at the greatest distance from any planetary body. He also holds the record for the most time spent by any human in lunar orbit.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the command module splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, the astronauts were retrieved by the crew of a Navy ship. It was none other than the USS Ticonderoga, the very ship where Evans had served six years before.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Evans worked on the development of the space shuttle before retiring from the Navy and NASA. He worked in industry before suffering a stroke and passing away suddenly in his sleep in 1990.&nbsp;Evans was one of 24 astronauts to have flown to the moon and one of 12 to have flown to the moon without landing on it. He remains the last person in history to have orbited the moon.&nbsp;&nbsp;From the open plains to outer space, Kansan Ron Evans experienced a remarkable journey in life. We salute Ron Evans and all those who make a difference by exploring the universe or searching for new discoveries at home.&nbsp;All I can say about his record-setting career is, “Hot diggety dog.”&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Ron Evans, NW Kansas astronaut 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Former Ellis County District Court Administrator Amanda Truan has been charged with nine counts of felony identity fraud.

Truan is no longer an employee of the judicial district.

Truan — between Jan. 1, 2019, and Nov. 20, 2021 — allegedly altered, amended, counterfeited, manufactured or replicated documents containing information with personal identifying information with the intent to deceive, according to court records.

The documents were Kansas Judicial Branch office staff performance evaluation forms.

Only the initials of those whose performance evaluations were affected were used in the court documents, but according to the potential witness list, they include an Ellis County district court clerk, trial court clerks, court reporter, chief court services officer, a Rooks County court clerk, an Ellis County deputy court clerk, a Gove County district court clerk and a Trego County district court clerk.

Others listed as potential witnesses in the case are 23rd Judicial District Judge Glenn Bruan and former Judge Blake Bittle, Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson and members of the Office of Judicial Administration staff.

Each count is punishable by up to 23 months in prison and/or up to a $100,000 fine.

The case is being prosecuted by the Kansas Attorney General's Office.

Truan has bonded out of jail and is scheduled to appear in court for a status conference at 11:30 a.m. Monday in Ellis County District Court.

Hays Post contacted the office of the 23rd Judicial District Administrative Judge Glenn Bruan, the Kansas Office of Judicial Administration and the Kansas Attorney General's office. All three offices said they could not comment on the case.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFormer Ellis County District Court Administrator Amanda Truan has been charged with nine counts of felony identity fraud.Truan is no longer an employee of the judicial district.Truan — between Jan. 1, 2019, and Nov. 20, 2021 — allegedly altered, amended, counterfeited, manufactured or replicated documents containing information with personal identifying information with the intent to deceive, according to court records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658521929733.png" alt="Amanda Truan / Hays Post file" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Truan / Hays Post file</figcaption>
 </figure>The documents were Kansas Judicial Branch office staff performance evaluation forms.Only the initials of those whose performance evaluations were affected were used in the court documents, but according to the potential witness list, they include an Ellis County district court clerk, trial court clerks, court reporter, chief court services officer, a Rooks County court clerk, an Ellis County deputy court clerk, a Gove County district court clerk and a Trego County district court clerk.Others listed as potential witnesses in the case are 23rd Judicial District Judge Glenn Bruan and former Judge Blake Bittle, Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson and members of the Office of Judicial Administration staff. Each count is punishable by up to 23 months in prison and/or up to a $100,000 fine.The case is being prosecuted by the Kansas Attorney General's Office.Truan has bonded out of jail and is scheduled to appear in court for a status conference at 11:30 a.m. Monday in Ellis County District Court. Hays Post contacted the office of the 23rd Judicial District Administrative Judge Glenn Bruan, the Kansas Office of Judicial Administration and the Kansas Attorney General's office. All three offices said they could not comment on the case.

Former Ellis County District Court administrator charged with identity fraud

The Hays USD 489 school district is on schedule to complete a couple of major capital projects this summer. The district is also moving forward with its $143.5 million bond issue.

The first phase of the $6 million Hays High School HVAC project is nearing completion. Superintendent Ron Wilson said water should be back in the system and air conditioning functioning in the building by the end of the week.

The second phase of the project will be completed next summer.

Work is also on track for the replacement of windows at O'Loughlin Elementary School. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3d59710-950c-4066-9108-03f6cf0ae197">The $652,730 project is supposed to be completed by the beginning of the school year. It also included replacing windows at Wilson Elementary School and Rockwell Administration Center</a>.

The board on Monday approved a bid for $165,258 from Commercial Builders for concrete paving at the district's transportation facility. That work will begin before the end of the year but be finished after the start of school.

Arrangements have been made to park the buses outside of the fence while the concrete work is being done.

Wilson reported to the board that 10 teachers and administrators recently toured high schools that had work completed by the district's architectural firm, DLR. 

The trip was meant to help in the planning process for the new high school. The group visited high schools in Tonganoxie, Ottawa, Salina and Lee's Summit, Mo.

“We've seen pictures and gotten excited, but when you're walking in those spaces and knowing we are going to have something as good or better. ... It's going to be unbelievable," Wilson said.

A Kansas Department of Transportation grant will be used to do a traffic study of 13th Street and Canterbury near the new high school. Some residents raised concerns during the bond election about congestion in the area when the new school is built.

The board also approved the letting of bonds for the bond projects at its meeting Monday.

Wilson said the district has been advised by its bond counsel that conditions may be favorable soon to let the bonds. The school district has already started the process of obtaining a bond rating, which Wilson said he thought would be favorable.

Wilson said the City of Hays also will soon take up a measure that will annex the 41 acres of land for the new high school, which is currently in the county. The land for the high school also will need to be rezoned.

The district approved the purchase of 800 student iPads and cases for Hays Middle School.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1c77db56-05ec-49db-8671-2c6ea4d68cb4">The district applied for $320,000 in emergency connectivity funds to help pay for the devices.</a> The total cost of the devices is $354,360.

The district has yet to hear back about the grant, but could still be reimbursed if the grant is awarded.

The board conducted its annual reorganization meeting Monday. Craig Pallister was elected president, and Ken Brooks was elected vice-president.

Pallister, who has served as vice-president of the board for the past year, takes over the role from Tammy Wellbrock.

The board approved the hiring of five new positions for Westside school.&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/46f3294a-cb06-4a1a-af38-d03923166916">The district announced earlier this month that High Plains Mental Health Center would no longer administer the program at Westside.</a>

The new positions will fill vacancies left by High Plains staff. 

The school assists children with mental health needs that can't be addressed in their home schools. The cost to the special education cooperative, which Hays is a part, will be $198,350. Additional state aid will cover $78,520. Net cost to the cooperative will be $119,830 per year.

"Our goal is from a family perspective, from a student perspective and base school, where students come from, we hope there will be minimal disruption," Special Education Cooperative Director Kyle Carlin said.

The cooperative also includes Ellis, Victoria and La Crosse. The Russell school district's membership in the cooperative is being phased in.

Board member Curt Vajnar questioned why the girl's soccer team was contracted to play seven games at Fort Hays State University's Lewis Field, and the boy's soccer team was only scheduled for two games.

FHSU charges the district $1,000 per game for the rental of the field. 

Wilson said it is the coach's discretion. He also noted the boys play in the fall, and girls play in the spring, and field conditions are different according to the seasons.

In other business, the board: • Heard a report on the district's strategic plan. The board is scheduled to finally approve the plan after its board retreat on Aug. 5. • Approved the contract for the board attorney Bill Jeter. • Heard a report on the USD 489 property boundary with Thomas More Prep-Marian. A small piece of the TMP softball field is part of the O'Loughlin Elementary School property. Jeter said the school should have no liability for injuries that might happen on that piece of land.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school district is on schedule to complete a couple of major capital projects this summer. The district is also moving forward with its $143.5 million bond issue. The first phase of the $6 million Hays High School HVAC project is nearing completion. Superintendent Ron Wilson said water should be back in the system and air conditioning functioning in the building by the end of the week.The second phase of the project will be completed next summer. Work is also on track for the replacement of windows at O'Loughlin Elementary School. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3d59710-950c-4066-9108-03f6cf0ae197">The $652,730 project is supposed to be completed by the beginning of the school year. It also included replacing windows at Wilson Elementary School and Rockwell Administration Center</a>. The board on Monday approved a bid for $165,258 from Commercial Builders for concrete paving at the district's transportation facility. That work will begin before the end of the year but be finished after the start of school.Arrangements have been made to park the buses outside of the fence while the concrete work is being done.<h2>Bond progress</h2>Wilson reported to the board that 10 teachers and administrators recently toured high schools that had work completed by the district's architectural firm, DLR. The trip was meant to help in the planning process for the new high school. The group visited high schools in Tonganoxie, Ottawa, Salina and Lee's Summit, Mo.“We've seen pictures and gotten excited, but when you're walking in those spaces and knowing we are going to have something as good or better. ... It's going to be unbelievable," Wilson said. A Kansas Department of Transportation grant will be used to do a traffic study of 13th Street and Canterbury near the new high school. Some residents raised concerns during the bond election about congestion in the area when the new school is built. The board also approved the letting of bonds for the bond projects at its meeting Monday.Wilson said the district has been advised by its bond counsel that conditions may be favorable soon to let the bonds. The school district has already started the process of obtaining a bond rating, which Wilson said he thought would be favorable. Wilson said the City of Hays also will soon take up a measure that will annex the 41 acres of land for the new high school, which is currently in the county. The land for the high school also will need to be rezoned.<h2>iPads</h2>The district approved the purchase of 800 student iPads and cases for Hays Middle School. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1c77db56-05ec-49db-8671-2c6ea4d68cb4">The district applied for $320,000 in emergency connectivity funds to help pay for the devices.</a> The total cost of the devices is $354,360. The district has yet to hear back about the grant, but could still be reimbursed if the grant is awarded.<h2>Board elections</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658432975432.jpeg" alt="New Hays USD 489 school board vice president Ken Brooks, left, and president Craig Pallister. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>New Hays USD 489 school board vice president Ken Brooks, left, and president Craig Pallister. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The board conducted its annual reorganization meeting Monday. Craig Pallister was elected president, and Ken Brooks was elected vice-president.Pallister, who has served as vice-president of the board for the past year, takes over the role from Tammy Wellbrock.<h2>Westside school update</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642524538587.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The board approved the hiring of five new positions for Westside school.&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/46f3294a-cb06-4a1a-af38-d03923166916">The district announced earlier this month that High Plains Mental Health Center would no longer administer the program at Westside.</a>The new positions will fill vacancies left by High Plains staff. The school assists children with mental health needs that can't be addressed in their home schools. The cost to the special education cooperative, which Hays is a part, will be $198,350. Additional state aid will cover $78,520. Net cost to the cooperative will be $119,830 per year."Our goal is from a family perspective, from a student perspective and base school, where students come from, we hope there will be minimal disruption," Special Education Cooperative Director Kyle Carlin said. The cooperative also includes Ellis, Victoria and La Crosse. The Russell school district's membership in the cooperative is being phased in. <h2>Lewis Field contract</h2>Board member Curt Vajnar questioned why the girl's soccer team was contracted to play seven games at Fort Hays State University's Lewis Field, and the boy's soccer team was only scheduled for two games.FHSU charges the district $1,000 per game for the rental of the field. Wilson said it is the coach's discretion. He also noted the boys play in the fall, and girls play in the spring, and field conditions are different according to the seasons.Vajnar voted against the contract. In other business, the board: • Heard a report on the district's strategic plan. The board is scheduled to finally approve the plan after its board retreat on Aug. 5. • Approved the contract for the board attorney Bill Jeter. • Heard a report on the USD 489 property boundary with Thomas More Prep-Marian. A small piece of the TMP softball field is part of the O'Loughlin Elementary School property. Jeter said the school should have no liability for injuries that might happen on that piece of land.

USD 489 makes progress on Hays High HVAC; bond moving forward

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HaysMed welcomes Hoss the pet therapy dog

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

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

🎤Forward Ever: Hays city manager Toby Dougherty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ellis County jobless rate rises to 2.1 percent in June

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOUNKER: Planting a summer cover crop in wheat stubble

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

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

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

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

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

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

NWS: Heat advisories issued for both Friday, Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local