Four minor earthquakes were reported near the Ellis-Russell county line between Friday night and Saturday morning.

The Kansas Geological Survey reported a 2.6-magnitude quake just east of the county line at 8:31 p.m., followed by another 2.3-magnitude quake at 9:20 p.m. Friday.

At 6:01 a.m. Saturday, a 2.8-magnitude temblor was detected just west of he county line in Ellis County. Another 2.6-magnitude quake was recorded just north of the original report at 7:24 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661611552778.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Four minor earthquakes were reported near the Ellis-Russell county line between Friday night and Saturday morning.The Kansas Geological Survey reported a 2.6-magnitude quake just east of the county line at 8:31 p.m., followed by another 2.3-magnitude quake at 9:20 p.m. Friday.At 6:01 a.m. Saturday, a 2.8-magnitude temblor was detected just west of he county line in Ellis County. Another 2.6-magnitude quake was recorded just north of the original report at 7:24 a.m.

Four earthquakes in Ellis, Russell counties Friday, Saturday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It was a busy week at the new location of the children's psychiatric hospital in Hays, 3000 New Way Blvd.

The building in south Hays, which also houses&nbsp;HaysMed Business Center, is under renovation and scheduled to open in January 2023. It's part of&nbsp;<a href="https://hospitals.kvc.org/2021/12/13/governor-laura-kelly-announces-partnership-to-bring-youth-psychiatric-hospital-to-hays/" target="_blank">a new partnership</a>&nbsp;with the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the hospital announced a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ae12a8c-733d-4e90-ae26-b6ce1d5c7e6d">name change from KVC Hospital to Camber Children’s Mental Health</a> to more accurately reflect its comprehensive program of care for youth ages 6-18.

On Wednesday, area legislators, representatives of HaysMed and High Plains Mental Health Center, and KDADS employees were among those touring the facility as construction workers scurried about.

Last Friday, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly was shown around in a private tour.&nbsp;

The former KVC Hospital in the Hadley Center, 205 E. 7th,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3de94af-2857-447a-955b-b0cacf3adeda">housed acute patients from 2010 to 2019</a>&nbsp; following the closure of the children’s hospital at Larned State Hospital.&nbsp;KVC cited CMS' (Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services) licensure as a reason they closed the acute beds in Hays.&nbsp;CMS required KVC to have acute patients and residential patients in separate spaces. The new facility will allow that.&nbsp; &nbsp;

All the current psychiatric residential treatment facility (PRTF) services at the Hadley Center will relocate to the bigger facility.&nbsp;

With 18 PTRF beds and 14 new acute beds, Bobby Eklof, Camber president, estimates an additional 600 children can be served each year.

"We want it to be safe for children," Eklof said, "but you also want it to be kid-friendly, and make sure that we're addressing their behavioral health needs."

Making the facility especially kid-friendly is a secure outdoor play area, something that has not been possible in Hadley Center.&nbsp;

Inpatient hospitalization has still been available at similar Camber facilities in Wichita and Kansas City, but they are many hours away from western Kansas and the beds are almost always filled.

Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, was part of the group tour Wednesday along with other state and local leaders.

"It's a huge advantage, a huge advantage," she said of the local hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wasinger said she's had concerned parents calling her needing help for their kids.

"When you talk to people who have children in need of these facilities, they couldn't get their kids into Wichita or Kansas City. Even if they could get them there, they had long waiting lists.

"Having them this close, for people in western Kansas, makes it that much easier to keep an eye on your child and making sure they're improving and getting the help that they need.

"So this is crucial to the healthcare within this community and I'm so grateful that it's getting done."

Wasinger praised Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, who was also on the tour, for his role as chairman of the Senate Ways and Means committee in getting the acute care beds back in Hays.

"The funding is there," Billinger said. "Three years ago we allocated four million dollars to get this facility back open in Hays."&nbsp;

The state has made major investments in the facility, according to Gov. Kelly, who has a longtime interest in children's mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Before she entered politics, Kelly was a recreation therapist at Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center in New York. She eventually headed the department, working there for about seven years.&nbsp;

"This fills a gap that has existed here where there really hasn't been any place for a kid experiencing a psychiatric episode of some sort. This way they can come here and get treatment and maybe not have to go to Larned, Osawatomie, Wichita, into a psychiatric facility."

"I have a warm spot in my heart for kids with mental health issues," she said during her tour last week.&nbsp;

The new hospital will be "incredibly important" not only to its young clients and their families, "but to this whole region economically," Kelly said.

"If you have good services close to home, you're going to keep more productive citizens here in the region and be able to fill those jobs you've got."&nbsp;

The building will have state-of-the-art technology including motion sensors and cameras in addition to 24/7 direct supervision.&nbsp;

Some additional staff will be hired, including a psychiatrist. Most of that staff will be specialized positions in nursing as well as  clinicians for the acute program.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661595287073.jpeg" alt="Employees of Camber Children's Mental Health, formerly KVC Hospital in Hays, answer questions during a tour Aug. 24 with local and state officials about the new facility scheduled to open in January 2023.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Employees of Camber Children's Mental Health, formerly KVC Hospital in Hays, answer questions during a tour Aug. 24 with local and state officials about the new facility scheduled to open in January 2023.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt was a busy week at the new location of the children's psychiatric hospital in Hays, 3000 New Way Blvd.The building in south Hays, which also houses&nbsp;HaysMed Business Center, is under renovation and scheduled to open in January 2023. It's part of&nbsp;<a href="https://hospitals.kvc.org/2021/12/13/governor-laura-kelly-announces-partnership-to-bring-youth-psychiatric-hospital-to-hays/" target="_blank">a new partnership</a>&nbsp;with the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).&nbsp;&nbsp;On Tuesday, the hospital announced a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ae12a8c-733d-4e90-ae26-b6ce1d5c7e6d">name change from KVC Hospital to Camber Children’s Mental Health</a> to more accurately reflect its comprehensive program of care for youth ages 6-18.On Wednesday, area legislators, representatives of HaysMed and High Plains Mental Health Center, and KDADS employees were among those touring the facility as construction workers scurried about.Last Friday, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly was shown around in a private tour.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661550053382.jpeg" alt="The building at 3000 New Way Boulevard is being designed and renovated to meet the unique safety, security, and therapeutic needs of youth receiving acute and inpatient psychiatric care.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The building at 3000 New Way Boulevard is being designed and renovated to meet the unique safety, security, and therapeutic needs of youth receiving acute and inpatient psychiatric care.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661549990824.jpeg" alt="Dave Anderson, High Plains Mental Health Center Director of Clinical Services, Hays, 111th Dist. Rep. Barb Wasinger, Hays, and KDADS Secretary Laura Howard, Topeka, were among those on the Aug. 24 tour of Camber&nbsp;Children’s Mental Health in Hays hosted by Bobby Eklof, Camber president (back to camera)." />
 <figcaption>Dave Anderson, High Plains Mental Health Center Director of Clinical Services, Hays, 111th Dist. Rep. Barb Wasinger, Hays, and KDADS Secretary Laura Howard, Topeka, were among those on the Aug. 24 tour of Camber&nbsp;Children’s Mental Health in Hays hosted by Bobby Eklof, Camber president (back to camera).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661583233679.jpeg" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly toured the renovations underway at the new Hays children's mental health hospital on Aug. 19. The program will relocate from the downtown Hadley Center to 3000 New Way Blvd. The new location will provide expanded inpatient hospital and residential services that are more accessible to families in western Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly toured the renovations underway at the new Hays children's mental health hospital on Aug. 19. The program will relocate from the downtown Hadley Center to 3000 New Way Blvd. The new location will provide expanded inpatient hospital and residential services that are more accessible to families in western Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>The former KVC Hospital in the Hadley Center, 205 E. 7th,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3de94af-2857-447a-955b-b0cacf3adeda">housed acute patients from 2010 to 2019</a>&nbsp; following the closure of the children’s hospital at Larned State Hospital.&nbsp;KVC cited CMS' (Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services) licensure as a reason they closed the acute beds in Hays.&nbsp;CMS required KVC to have acute patients and residential patients in separate spaces. The new facility will allow that.&nbsp; &nbsp;All the current psychiatric residential treatment facility (PRTF) services at the Hadley Center will relocate to the bigger facility.&nbsp;With 18 PTRF beds and 14 new acute beds, Bobby Eklof, Camber president, estimates an additional 600 children can be served each year."We want it to be safe for children," Eklof said, "but you also want it to be kid-friendly, and make sure that we're addressing their behavioral health needs."Making the facility especially kid-friendly is a secure outdoor play area, something that has not been possible in Hadley Center.&nbsp;Inpatient hospitalization has still been available at similar Camber facilities in Wichita and Kansas City, but they are many hours away from western Kansas and the beds are almost always filled.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/CbYRdKZK-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Camber Tours" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, was part of the group tour Wednesday along with other state and local leaders."It's a huge advantage, a huge advantage," she said of the local hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wasinger said she's had concerned parents calling her needing help for their kids."When you talk to people who have children in need of these facilities, they couldn't get their kids into Wichita or Kansas City. Even if they could get them there, they had long waiting lists."Having them this close, for people in western Kansas, makes it that much easier to keep an eye on your child and making sure they're improving and getting the help that they need."So this is crucial to the healthcare within this community and I'm so grateful that it's getting done."Wasinger praised Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, who was also on the tour, for his role as chairman of the Senate Ways and Means committee in getting the acute care beds back in Hays."The funding is there," Billinger said. "Three years ago we allocated four million dollars to get this facility back open in Hays."&nbsp;The state has made major investments in the facility, according to Gov. Kelly, who has a longtime interest in children's mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;Before she entered politics, Kelly was a recreation therapist at Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center in New York. She eventually headed the department, working there for about seven years.&nbsp;"This fills a gap that has existed here where there really hasn't been any place for a kid experiencing a psychiatric episode of some sort. This way they can come here and get treatment and maybe not have to go to Larned, Osawatomie, Wichita, into a psychiatric facility.""I have a warm spot in my heart for kids with mental health issues," she said during her tour last week.&nbsp;The new hospital will be "incredibly important" not only to its young clients and their families, "but to this whole region economically," Kelly said."If you have good services close to home, you're going to keep more productive citizens here in the region and be able to fill those jobs you've got."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661591031667.jpeg" alt="The new hospital will have a secure outdoor play area, something that is not available in the Hadley Center.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The new hospital will have a secure outdoor play area, something that is not available in the Hadley Center.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The building will have state-of-the-art technology including motion sensors and cameras in addition to 24/7 direct supervision.&nbsp;Some additional staff will be hired, including a psychiatrist. Most of that staff will be specialized positions in nursing as well as clinicians for the acute program.&nbsp;

🎥 Governor, legislators visit children's psychiatric hospital in Hays; opens in Jan. 

Nathan Legleiter,&nbsp;loan officer and&nbsp;vice&nbsp;president&nbsp;of&nbsp;Golden Belt Bank,&nbsp;has graduated from&nbsp;the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado’s state-of-the-art graduate school of banking program. Legleiter&nbsp;was among&nbsp;169&nbsp;graduates of&nbsp;the class of 2022 honored during a ceremony on July 28 in Boulder, Colo.

Students graduate from the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado upon successfully completing&nbsp;three annual two-week sessions&nbsp;of classroom training&nbsp;and six immersive intersession research projects between sessions throughout the year. Courses covering four career areas are delivered by community-banking experts and include Financial Management &amp; Strategy, Innovation &amp; Engagement, Leadership &amp; Culture and Lending.

The program’s&nbsp;capstone course&nbsp;is an&nbsp;in-depth&nbsp;bank management simulation, where&nbsp;students assume the roles&nbsp;of senior management&nbsp;of&nbsp;a commercial bank, involving themselves in the group dynamics and managerial skills of managing a bank in a competitive environment with changing economic conditions.

“The coursework and projects associated with GSBC strive to enhance the skills of community bankers around the country,” said GSBC President Michael Stevens. “The ultimate beneficiary will be the consumers and businesses in the communities where these financial professionals serve.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661445930095.png" alt="Legleiter" />
 <figcaption>Legleiter</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseNathan Legleiter,&nbsp;loan officer and&nbsp;vice&nbsp;president&nbsp;of&nbsp;Golden Belt Bank,&nbsp;has graduated from&nbsp;the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado’s state-of-the-art graduate school of banking program. Legleiter&nbsp;was among&nbsp;169&nbsp;graduates of&nbsp;the class of 2022 honored during a ceremony on July 28 in Boulder, Colo.Students graduate from the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado upon successfully completing&nbsp;three annual two-week sessions&nbsp;of classroom training&nbsp;and six immersive intersession research projects between sessions throughout the year. Courses covering four career areas are delivered by community-banking experts and include Financial Management &amp; Strategy, Innovation &amp; Engagement, Leadership &amp; Culture and Lending.The program’s&nbsp;capstone course&nbsp;is an&nbsp;in-depth&nbsp;bank management simulation, where&nbsp;students assume the roles&nbsp;of senior management&nbsp;of&nbsp;a commercial bank, involving themselves in the group dynamics and managerial skills of managing a bank in a competitive environment with changing economic conditions.“The coursework and projects associated with GSBC strive to enhance the skills of community bankers around the country,” said GSBC President Michael Stevens. “The ultimate beneficiary will be the consumers and businesses in the communities where these financial professionals serve.”

Golden Belt's Legleiter among newest graduates of banking institution

FORT LARNED — Labor Day Weekend traditionally signals the end of summer. Bring your summer fun to a historic close with a weekend of fun and learning at Fort Larned’s Labor Day Weekend Living History Event. &nbsp;

Volunteers and staff will once again bring Fort Larned to life during the Labor Day Weekend living history event.&nbsp;&nbsp;Get a glimpse into the life of a frontier soldier with rifle and artillery firing demonstrations, and their life in the army.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can also visit with officers’ wives, as well as watch the post blacksmith use a forge and anvil to transform iron into everyday objects.&nbsp;

Come out and end your summer with a celebration of our nation’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here is the schedule of events for all three days.&nbsp;

10:00 am – Forge and Anvil: Blacksmith Demonstration&nbsp;

11:00 am – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;

1:00 pm – Special Program – Buffalo Soldiers: An American Legend on the Western Frontier&nbsp;

2:00 pm – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;

3:00 pm – Beat the Drums – Drum Calls of the Civil War Era&nbsp;

4:30 pm – Flag Retreat: Traditional Army Flag Lowering Ceremony&nbsp;

1:00 pm – Special Speaker – Dr. Leo Oliva – early Kansas History and Zebulon Pike&nbsp;

3:00 pm – Life on Officers’ Row&nbsp;

1:00 pm – Special Program – Santa Fe Trail: Its History and Influence&nbsp;

2:00 pm – Earning Your Stripes: Non-Commissioned Officers at Fort Larned&nbsp;

Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. Information on visiting is on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, or by calling 620-285-6911, or email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_superintendent@nps.gov">fols_superintendent@nps.gov</a>. For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call (620) 285-6916.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661439822558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseFORT LARNED — Labor Day Weekend traditionally signals the end of summer. Bring your summer fun to a historic close with a weekend of fun and learning at Fort Larned’s Labor Day Weekend Living History Event. &nbsp;Volunteers and staff will once again bring Fort Larned to life during the Labor Day Weekend living history event.&nbsp;&nbsp;Get a glimpse into the life of a frontier soldier with rifle and artillery firing demonstrations, and their life in the army.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can also visit with officers’ wives, as well as watch the post blacksmith use a forge and anvil to transform iron into everyday objects.&nbsp;Come out and end your summer with a celebration of our nation’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here is the schedule of events for all three days.&nbsp;Saturday&nbsp;10:00 am – Forge and Anvil: Blacksmith Demonstration&nbsp;11:00 am – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;1:00 pm – Special Program – Buffalo Soldiers: An American Legend on the Western Frontier&nbsp;2:00 pm – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;3:00 pm – Beat the Drums – Drum Calls of the Civil War Era&nbsp;4:30 pm – Flag Retreat: Traditional Army Flag Lowering Ceremony&nbsp;Sunday&nbsp;10:00 am – Forge and Anvil: Blacksmith Demonstration&nbsp;11:00 am – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;1:00 pm – Special Speaker – Dr. Leo Oliva – early Kansas History and Zebulon Pike&nbsp;2:00 pm – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;3:00 pm – Life on Officers’ Row&nbsp;4:30 pm – Flag Retreat: Traditional Army Flag Lowering Ceremony&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;10:00 am – Forge and Anvil: Blacksmith Demonstration&nbsp;11:00 am – Frontier Army Weapons: Rifle and Artillery Firing Demonstration&nbsp;1:00 pm – Special Program – Santa Fe Trail: Its History and Influence&nbsp;2:00 pm – Earning Your Stripes: Non-Commissioned Officers at Fort Larned&nbsp;3:00 pm – Life on Officers’ Row&nbsp;4:30 pm – Flag Retreat: Traditional Army Flag Lowering Ceremony&nbsp;Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. Information on visiting is on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, or by calling 620-285-6911, or email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_superintendent@nps.gov">fols_superintendent@nps.gov</a>. For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call (620) 285-6916.&nbsp;

End your summer with a dose of living history at Fort Larned event

TOPEKA — The Kansas Corporation Commission has been awarded a $25 million initial federal grant to help plug abandoned wells in the state. The initial grant is part of $1.15 billion earmarked under the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to help states remediate abandoned oil and gas wells. A total of $4.7 billion has been allocated over the next eight years to plug abandoned wells in the U.S. The KCC is eligible to receive another $33.6 million in future formula grant funding.

“These federal grants provide Kansas with a one-time opportunity to help address the issue of abandoned wells in Kansas while helping the economy by providing good paying jobs for several years,” said Ryan A. Hoffman, KCC Conservation Division Director.

The KCC plans to use the initial $25 million grant to pay for eight projects involving the plugging of more than 2300 abandoned wells over the next two to three years.&nbsp; Four projects are located in Eastern Kansas. The other four are located in Central and Western Kansas. A map showing the locations of the projects and number of wells in each can be viewed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjUuNjI3NzcyOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tjYy5rcy5nb3YvaW1hZ2VzL1ByZXNzX0xpbmtzL0tTX1BsdWdnaW5nX1ByZXZpZXcucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.A2xRLIAXNrCU9ZPNslYvhkaGu9uf6NfXkkEv3oLZJpQ/s/1510803200/br/143080971176-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

A well is considered “abandoned” when it has been permanently taken out of production, is not properly plugged to prevent possible air or groundwater pollution, and the rightful legal owner cannot be determined or located to take responsibility.

While the federal grants will help reduce the total number of abandoned wells in Kansas, they are insufficient to address the entire problem.&nbsp; The KCC will still rely on industry generated funds to plug the thousands of wells remaining after the federal program expires.

More than 11,000 abandoned wells have been plugged since the establishment of the state well plugging fund in 1995. Oil and gas drilling in Kansas began in the 1860’s. Record keeping by early operators was not as precise as it is today. It is not uncommon for older abandoned wells to be discovered by landowners who were unaware they existed.

&nbsp;“These federal grant funds will provide important assistance in plugging abandoned wells in Kansas. However, to adequately protect Kansas fresh water resources, it will also be necessary to continue funding the plugging of abandoned wells with state well plugging fund resources provided by oil and gas industry fee assessments,” said Dwight D. Keen, Chair of the KCC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661454183131.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KCCTOPEKA — The Kansas Corporation Commission has been awarded a $25 million initial federal grant to help plug abandoned wells in the state. The initial grant is part of $1.15 billion earmarked under the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to help states remediate abandoned oil and gas wells. A total of $4.7 billion has been allocated over the next eight years to plug abandoned wells in the U.S. The KCC is eligible to receive another $33.6 million in future formula grant funding.“These federal grants provide Kansas with a one-time opportunity to help address the issue of abandoned wells in Kansas while helping the economy by providing good paying jobs for several years,” said Ryan A. Hoffman, KCC Conservation Division Director.The KCC plans to use the initial $25 million grant to pay for eight projects involving the plugging of more than 2300 abandoned wells over the next two to three years.&nbsp; Four projects are located in Eastern Kansas. The other four are located in Central and Western Kansas. A map showing the locations of the projects and number of wells in each can be viewed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjUuNjI3NzcyOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tjYy5rcy5nb3YvaW1hZ2VzL1ByZXNzX0xpbmtzL0tTX1BsdWdnaW5nX1ByZXZpZXcucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.A2xRLIAXNrCU9ZPNslYvhkaGu9uf6NfXkkEv3oLZJpQ/s/1510803200/br/143080971176-l" target="_blank">here</a>.A well is considered “abandoned” when it has been permanently taken out of production, is not properly plugged to prevent possible air or groundwater pollution, and the rightful legal owner cannot be determined or located to take responsibility.While the federal grants will help reduce the total number of abandoned wells in Kansas, they are insufficient to address the entire problem.&nbsp; The KCC will still rely on industry generated funds to plug the thousands of wells remaining after the federal program expires.More than 11,000 abandoned wells have been plugged since the establishment of the state well plugging fund in 1995. Oil and gas drilling in Kansas began in the 1860’s. Record keeping by early operators was not as precise as it is today. It is not uncommon for older abandoned wells to be discovered by landowners who were unaware they existed.&nbsp;“These federal grant funds will provide important assistance in plugging abandoned wells in Kansas. However, to adequately protect Kansas fresh water resources, it will also be necessary to continue funding the plugging of abandoned wells with state well plugging fund resources provided by oil and gas industry fee assessments,” said Dwight D. Keen, Chair of the KCC.

$25M federal grant will fund abandoned NW Kan. well plugging

<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/2022/8/1661537137138.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

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

Let’s visit a birthplace – not of a president or a general, but the birthplace of a cattle breed. Today we’ll learn more about an innovative family that helped develop a new breed of cattle in rural Kansas.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2022/08/kansas-profile-hoagland-jn-ranch.html">Last week in this column</a>, we met Dirck and Natalie Hoagland of J&amp;N Ranch near Leavenworth. Dirck’s parents, Joe and Nancy Hoagland, bought the place near Leavenworth in 1985 and have expanded operations since. For years, they raised registered Hereford cattle.&nbsp;

Hereford cattle are recognized for having a white-colored face and a red-colored body.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the 1990s, the Hoaglands and their friend John Gage had the idea of trying to breed Herefords that had the traditional white face but were black in color.&nbsp;

To traditional cattle producers, the name black Hereford might sound like an oxymoron – a contradiction in terms, like jumbo shrimp or single option. Yet these breeders wanted the carcass quality and market premiums of black Angus, while retaining the hardiness, docility and versatility of the Hereford breed.&nbsp;

They did so using the same process as that used by other breeds; namely, by introducing Angus genetics and then selecting for black hair color in the descendent generations.&nbsp;

When Joe Hoagland’s friend, John Gage, passed away from cancer, Joe purchased cattle and records from his estate and established the Black Hereford Registry in the barn office at the J&amp;N Ranch in 1999. Joe and Norma registered the first black Hereford and purchased the first membership in the American Black Hereford Association.&nbsp;

Later, the Hoaglands publish the first Black Hereford magazine and hold the first ABHA national sale.&nbsp;

As the association grew, the breed headquarters moved from J&amp;N Ranch to a Kansas City office in 2011. In 2017, Joe and Norma were inducted into the American Black Hereford Association Hall of Fame. Today the association has 500 breeders in 45 states plus overseas. All of these trace their cattle lineage back to the J&amp;N Ranch in Kansas.&nbsp;

Joe and Norma’s son, Dirck, and his wife, Natalie, now operate J&amp;N Ranch, which continues to be a major producer of black Hereford cattle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bull and heifer development takes place at the ranch near Leavenworth. Their summer pasture is in Wabaunsee County at the Hoagland’s Gun Barrel Ranch, located near the rural community of Eskridge, population 439 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

The Hoaglands recently received a Kansas Wildlife Habitat Conservation award from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for their work to improve prairie chicken habitat on the Wabaunsee County ranch. In this case, improving habitat meant removing trees so as to reduce predator risk for the prairie chicken.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We believe that we should protect the original species on the prairie,” Dirck said.&nbsp;

J&amp;N Ranch has two production sales yearly, selling bulls and females. Their breeding stock is sold across the Midwest and beyond. They’ve sent bulls as far east as Pennsylvania and as far west as Hawaii.&nbsp;

“One of our favorite things is delivering bulls and seeing our customer’s operations first hand,” Dirck Hoagland said (although the bulls that went to Hawaii were shipped by plane, so it sounds like the Hoaglands missed out on that trip).&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s great to travel around and see how our genetics have benefitted our customers’ herds.”&nbsp;

Dirck and Natalie have two boys, Dayton and Reed, ages 10 and 8. The Hoaglands value their rural, agricultural lifestyle deeply and seek to pass it on. “Natalie and I were very lucky to be able to come back into our family operation,” Hoagland said.&nbsp;

“Our one driving goal is to give these two boys the opportunity to live this life on the ranch if they choose to do so,” he said. “We want to be able to provide this opportunity to the next generation.”&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.jnranch.com/">www.jnranch.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information on Black Herefords, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.blackhereford.org/">www.blackhereford.org</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time to leave this birthplace – the birthplace of a cattle breed. We commend Joe and Norma Hoagland, Dirck and Natalie Hoagland, and all those who are making a difference at J&amp;N Ranch.&nbsp;

This ranch built more than a cattle breed – it built innovation, commitment and family.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661350321003.png" alt="Joe and Natalie Hoagland" />
 <figcaption>Joe and Natalie Hoagland</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Let’s visit a birthplace – not of a president or a general, but the birthplace of a cattle breed. Today we’ll learn more about an innovative family that helped develop a new breed of cattle in rural Kansas.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2022/08/kansas-profile-hoagland-jn-ranch.html">Last week in this column</a>, we met Dirck and Natalie Hoagland of J&amp;N Ranch near Leavenworth. Dirck’s parents, Joe and Nancy Hoagland, bought the place near Leavenworth in 1985 and have expanded operations since. For years, they raised registered Hereford cattle.&nbsp;Hereford cattle are recognized for having a white-colored face and a red-colored body.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the 1990s, the Hoaglands and their friend John Gage had the idea of trying to breed Herefords that had the traditional white face but were black in color.&nbsp;To traditional cattle producers, the name black Hereford might sound like an oxymoron – a contradiction in terms, like jumbo shrimp or single option. Yet these breeders wanted the carcass quality and market premiums of black Angus, while retaining the hardiness, docility and versatility of the Hereford breed.&nbsp;They did so using the same process as that used by other breeds; namely, by introducing Angus genetics and then selecting for black hair color in the descendent generations.&nbsp;When Joe Hoagland’s friend, John Gage, passed away from cancer, Joe purchased cattle and records from his estate and established the Black Hereford Registry in the barn office at the J&amp;N Ranch in 1999. Joe and Norma registered the first black Hereford and purchased the first membership in the American Black Hereford Association.&nbsp;Later, the Hoaglands publish the first Black Hereford magazine and hold the first ABHA national sale.&nbsp;As the association grew, the breed headquarters moved from J&amp;N Ranch to a Kansas City office in 2011. In 2017, Joe and Norma were inducted into the American Black Hereford Association Hall of Fame. Today the association has 500 breeders in 45 states plus overseas. All of these trace their cattle lineage back to the J&amp;N Ranch in Kansas.&nbsp;Joe and Norma’s son, Dirck, and his wife, Natalie, now operate J&amp;N Ranch, which continues to be a major producer of black Hereford cattle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bull and heifer development takes place at the ranch near Leavenworth. Their summer pasture is in Wabaunsee County at the Hoagland’s Gun Barrel Ranch, located near the rural community of Eskridge, population 439 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;The Hoaglands recently received a Kansas Wildlife Habitat Conservation award from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for their work to improve prairie chicken habitat on the Wabaunsee County ranch. In this case, improving habitat meant removing trees so as to reduce predator risk for the prairie chicken.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We believe that we should protect the original species on the prairie,” Dirck said.&nbsp;J&amp;N Ranch has two production sales yearly, selling bulls and females. Their breeding stock is sold across the Midwest and beyond. They’ve sent bulls as far east as Pennsylvania and as far west as Hawaii.&nbsp;“One of our favorite things is delivering bulls and seeing our customer’s operations first hand,” Dirck Hoagland said (although the bulls that went to Hawaii were shipped by plane, so it sounds like the Hoaglands missed out on that trip).&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s great to travel around and see how our genetics have benefitted our customers’ herds.”&nbsp;Dirck and Natalie have two boys, Dayton and Reed, ages 10 and 8. The Hoaglands value their rural, agricultural lifestyle deeply and seek to pass it on. “Natalie and I were very lucky to be able to come back into our family operation,” Hoagland said.&nbsp;“Our one driving goal is to give these two boys the opportunity to live this life on the ranch if they choose to do so,” he said. “We want to be able to provide this opportunity to the next generation.”&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.jnranch.com/">www.jnranch.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information on Black Herefords, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.blackhereford.org/">www.blackhereford.org</a>.&nbsp;It’s time to leave this birthplace – the birthplace of a cattle breed. We commend Joe and Norma Hoagland, Dirck and Natalie Hoagland, and all those who are making a difference at J&amp;N Ranch.&nbsp;This ranch built more than a cattle breed – it built innovation, commitment and family.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Dirck Hoagland, Black Herefords 

Northwest Kansas is a special place filled with fascinating people —&nbsp;each with their own story to tell. Beginning Sunday, the Nwester will cast light on those stories, sharing the tales of northwest Kansas.

From youth activities to sports, business to community events, the topics will run the gamut — as told by longtime writer and storyteller Diane Gasper-O'Brien.

Have an idea for a future story? Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>&nbsp;to share your idea.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660754177628.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northwest Kansas is a special place filled with fascinating people —&nbsp;each with their own story to tell. Beginning Sunday, the Nwester will cast light on those stories, sharing the tales of northwest Kansas. From youth activities to sports, business to community events, the topics will run the gamut — as told by longtime writer and storyteller Diane Gasper-O'Brien.Have an idea for a future story? Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>&nbsp;to share your idea.

Hays Post's NWester feature begins Sunday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with railroad enthusiast Steve Smethers.

<div><iframe width="315" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dm4Pwz9Fjsw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with railroad enthusiast Steve Smethers.

🎤Forward Ever: Railroad enthusiast Steve Smethers

The National Weather Service in Dodge City has increased the likelihood that the Hays area will receive some much-needed rainfall Saturday.

There is now up to a 60 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms beginning Saturday, with a slight chance of additional rain each day through Thursday.

Hays is nearly 5 inches of moisture behind the 153-year average for the year, and almost 2 inches behind the average August.

The high temperature Saturday will be in the mid-80s, the NWS predicted, with a high in the mid-90s expected Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661524742997.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City has increased the likelihood that the Hays area will receive some much-needed rainfall Saturday.There is now up to a 60 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms beginning Saturday, with a slight chance of additional rain each day through Thursday.Hays is nearly 5 inches of moisture behind the 153-year average for the year, and almost 2 inches behind the average August.The high temperature Saturday will be in the mid-80s, the NWS predicted, with a high in the mid-90s expected Sunday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rain and generally non severe thunderstorms are anticipated Saturday afternoon. Lightning is the primary anticipated risk at this time. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/otJFW5LAza">pic.twitter.com/otJFW5LAza</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1563084855482601473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS forecast increases the chance of weekend rainfall in Hays area

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In 1951, the Boy Scouts Troop 147 in La Crosse was instrumental in the construction of a smaller replica of the Statue of Liberty in New York. As part of the Boy Scouts of America’s 40th anniversary in 1950, a campaign started to position the statue replicas across the United States. Approximately 200 Statue of Liberty replicas were installed in the country as part of the “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty” campaign, with 26 of them located in Kansas. Mike Pivonka was a member of the Boy Scouts troop in La Crosse in the 1950s that helped raise the money for the statue located in City Park, along Main Street. "The scout troop here collected newspapers, cardboard, any kind of paper products that we could ship to Hutchinson and get a little money for," said Pivonka. "We used an empty garage to tie these things all up until we had a truckload. The American Legion and VFW kicked in some money. Finally, it accumulated enough money to get the statue bought." Statues were sold for $300 - $350 in the 1950s. The roughly 8' tall statue rests on a large stone base. The base was in bad shape and starting to fall apart. La Crosse City Manager Duane Moeder asked Pivonka this year about repairing the base. "We were able to find a brick layer that would work on it, but then we couldn't find any brick that matched the original," said Pivonka. "Duane found some material very similar to the buildings in the park. They were made out of post rock limestone." A brick layer then duplicated what was originally constructed, a seven-point star base, a replica of the statue in New York. Before placing the statue back, Pivonka took the creation to his shop at Flame Engineering in La Crosse where he soldered cracks and holes.

"There were over 30 places in the statue that needed repair," said Pivonka. "I'm an old farm boy and learned how to solder many years ago from my dad. It was pretty slow going. You had to be careful not to destroy any of the features originally there."

Pivonka said there was close to $16,000 raised for the renovation of the statue. Community members and scouts from the original Troop 147 contributed to the project.

"I started searching out old scouts that were in that troop," said Pivonka. "It took some time to reach all of them. They were all very gracious and helped us out considerably."

The Golden Belt Community Foundation also awarded the City of La Crosse a $2,000 grant for the repairs. Pivonka and city officials are still raising funds to pay for the restoration.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

You can direct any donations to the La Crosse City Office at&nbsp;1119 Main Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661441640651.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn 1951, the Boy Scouts Troop 147 in La Crosse was instrumental in the construction of a smaller replica of the Statue of Liberty in New York. As part of the Boy Scouts of America’s 40th anniversary in 1950, a campaign started to position the statue replicas across the United States. Approximately 200 Statue of Liberty replicas were installed in the country as part of the “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty” campaign, with 26 of them located in Kansas. Mike Pivonka was a member of the Boy Scouts troop in La Crosse in the 1950s that helped raise the money for the statue located in City Park, along Main Street. "The scout troop here collected newspapers, cardboard, any kind of paper products that we could ship to Hutchinson and get a little money for," said Pivonka. "We used an empty garage to tie these things all up until we had a truckload. The American Legion and VFW kicked in some money. Finally, it accumulated enough money to get the statue bought." Statues were sold for $300 - $350 in the 1950s. The roughly 8' tall statue rests on a large stone base. The base was in bad shape and starting to fall apart. La Crosse City Manager Duane Moeder asked Pivonka this year about repairing the base. "We were able to find a brick layer that would work on it, but then we couldn't find any brick that matched the original," said Pivonka. "Duane found some material very similar to the buildings in the park. They were made out of post rock limestone." A brick layer then duplicated what was originally constructed, a seven-point star base, a replica of the statue in New York. Before placing the statue back, Pivonka took the creation to his shop at Flame Engineering in La Crosse where he soldered cracks and holes."There were over 30 places in the statue that needed repair," said Pivonka. "I'm an old farm boy and learned how to solder many years ago from my dad. It was pretty slow going. You had to be careful not to destroy any of the features originally there."The restoration was finished in August.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661441993065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Pivonka said there was close to $16,000 raised for the renovation of the statue. Community members and scouts from the original Troop 147 contributed to the project."I started searching out old scouts that were in that troop," said Pivonka. "It took some time to reach all of them. They were all very gracious and helped us out considerably."The Golden Belt Community Foundation also awarded the City of La Crosse a $2,000 grant for the repairs. Pivonka and city officials are still raising funds to pay for the restoration.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;You can direct any donations to the La Crosse City Office at&nbsp;1119 Main Street.

Original Boy Scouts troop from 1950s helps restore La Crosse statue

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Leo Vasquez Jr. and a group of three others have opened a hip new hair studio called the Fade Factory off of East Eighth Street.

Vasquez, 30, a barber since 2017, decided to go out on his own after working for Park Avenue Salon. Vasquez is the only barber in the shop. The other three are cosmetologists — Kelsi Nuss, Josh Heredia and Manny Peralta.

Vasquez, who is originally from the Dodge City area, is a graduate of Old Town Barber College in Wichita. He specializes in intricate haircuts and bald fades with a razor. He creates team logos, numbers, zig-zag patterns or stars. The shop offers undercuts for women, as well.

Vasquez said he would eventually like to have someone on staff who could do braids.

"We go beyond the razor and implement color, as well," he said. "That also separates us from the rest of salons and shops here."

He said he enjoys both the creative and social aspects of being a barber.

Most Fade Factory cuts cost $35. Kids' cuts are $25. Designs and color are extra. The shop also offers services for beards and waxing.

Most haircuts are by appointment, but the shop also offers walk-ins. The shops usual hours are 9 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. However, Vasquez said the staff is willing to be flexible.

Vasquez and the three cosmetologists each have their own app on which customers can book appointments. To make an initial appointment, you can call the Fade Factory at 785-498-3233. The shop is working to consolidate those apps into a single site.

Vasquez said his goal was always to open his own shop.

"I felt I needed to give back to my clients something bigger than what I had currently," he said. "The space was not what I envisioned where I could grow."

&nbsp;The Fade Factory, 129 E. Eighth, is a warehouse space with a large overhead door that has been decked out in windows. The space is meant to accommodate photography and videography. It is the back half of the building, and the entrance is on the east side of the building off the alley.

Vasquez has purchased a portion of the building with hopes of expansion.

"It has a real industrial look and is what our typical vibe would be with music," he said. "Most importantly it's a big, creative space."

Being downtown is important to Vasquez. He said he hopes the location will continue to allow him and his co-workers to be integrated into the community. 

On its opening day Aug. 7, the shop sponsored an event with free hair cuts and school supplies for kids. The shop gave away 100 haircuts.

He also said he would be interested in being involved in the Hays Arts Center art walks, although the shop is not on the walk tonight.

For more information, you can follow the Fade Factory on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Fade-Factory-Hays-Ks-106853622142575">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661287030449.jpeg" alt="Leo Vasquez Jr. is the owner of the new Fade Factory hair studio at 129 E. Eighth in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Leo Vasquez Jr. is the owner of the new Fade Factory hair studio at 129 E. Eighth in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLeo Vasquez Jr. and a group of three others have opened a hip new hair studio called the Fade Factory off of East Eighth Street.Vasquez, 30, a barber since 2017, decided to go out on his own after working for Park Avenue Salon. Vasquez is the only barber in the shop. The other three are cosmetologists — Kelsi Nuss, Josh Heredia and Manny Peralta. Vasquez, who is originally from the Dodge City area, is a graduate of Old Town Barber College in Wichita. He specializes in intricate haircuts and bald fades with a razor. He creates team logos, numbers, zig-zag patterns or stars. The shop offers undercuts for women, as well.Vasquez said he would eventually like to have someone on staff who could do braids."We go beyond the razor and implement color, as well," he said. "That also separates us from the rest of salons and shops here."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661287252848.jpeg" alt="Vasquez specializes in intricate haircuts and bald fades with a razor. He creates team logos, numbers, zig-zag patterns or stars. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Vasquez specializes in intricate haircuts and bald fades with a razor. He creates team logos, numbers, zig-zag patterns or stars. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>He said he enjoys both the creative and social aspects of being a barber. Most Fade Factory cuts cost $35. Kids' cuts are $25. Designs and color are extra. The shop also offers services for beards and waxing.Most haircuts are by appointment, but the shop also offers walk-ins. The shops usual hours are 9 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. However, Vasquez said the staff is willing to be flexible.Vasquez and the three cosmetologists each have their own app on which customers can book appointments. To make an initial appointment, you can call the Fade Factory at 785-498-3233. The shop is working to consolidate those apps into a single site. Vasquez said his goal was always to open his own shop."I felt I needed to give back to my clients something bigger than what I had currently," he said. "The space was not what I envisioned where I could grow."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661287373234.jpeg" alt="The Fade Factory is in a warehouse space that is meant to accommodate photography and videography. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Fade Factory is in a warehouse space that is meant to accommodate photography and videography. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The Fade Factory, 129 E. Eighth, is a warehouse space with a large overhead door that has been decked out in windows. The space is meant to accommodate photography and videography. It is the back half of the building, and the entrance is on the east side of the building off the alley. Vasquez has purchased a portion of the building with hopes of expansion."It has a real industrial look and is what our typical vibe would be with music," he said. "Most importantly it's a big, creative space."Being downtown is important to Vasquez. He said he hopes the location will continue to allow him and his co-workers to be integrated into the community. On its opening day Aug. 7, the shop sponsored an event with free hair cuts and school supplies for kids. The shop gave away 100 haircuts. He also said he would be interested in being involved in the Hays Arts Center art walks, although the shop is not on the walk tonight.For more information, you can follow the Fade Factory on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Fade-Factory-Hays-Ks-106853622142575">Facebook</a>.

Hays' Fade Factory specializes in creative razor haircuts

The Fort Hays State University Foundation recently appointed four new members to its Board of Trustees: Shelley Hunt, Denis Miller, Kathy Mitchell, and Jeff Peier.&nbsp;

Shelley Hunt, senior director of risk optimization for Koch Industries Inc. in Wichita, joins the board with many years of experience and philanthropic service. Hunt, a 1985 Fort Hays State alumna, and 1995 Wichita State University graduate has served Koch Industries or its subsidiaries for more than 35 years. Among her numerous areas of expertise in accounting, management, and leadership, her main emphasis is risk assessment.&nbsp;

Hunt is involved in a variety of community and professional organizations, including Risk and Insurance Management Society, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland, and Delta Zeta sorority, and is a former FHSU Alumni Board president. In 2002, Hunt was named one of Wichita Business Journal’s “40 under 40” and was a recipient of the Girl Scout Kansas Heartland Volunteer Service Award. She is a WaKeeney native and daughter of FHSU alumni Myron and Edna Deines.

Denis Miller, a 1973 FHSU accounting alumnus, resides in Phillipsburg and offers years of accounting expertise. He worked in a variety of roles in the Wichita area before starting his own practice from his family home in 1984.&nbsp;

In 1990, the practice expanded and merged with Vick and Mapes CPAs in Norton. The firm, now known as Mapes &amp; Miller CPAs, has six offices throughout Phillipsburg, Norton, Stockton, Quinter, WaKeeney, and Hill City, with five partners and 35 employees. Of its five partners, four are FHSU graduates. Miller has been involved with several FHSU Foundation boards and committees over the years and is excited to serve the board of trustees while supporting his alma mater.&nbsp;

Kathy Mitchell, 1981 Fort Hays State alumna, brings years of accounting experience with her to the board. Mitchell worked as a CPA/partner for Brungardt Hower Ward Elliott &amp; Pfeifer, L.C. from 1981-2017 and currently serves as chief operating officer for Smoky Hill Capital, Inc. in Russell.&nbsp;

In addition to being a certified public accountant, Mitchell has served as a board member for the Kansas Board of Accountancy and as a past president for both the Kansas Society of CPAs and the Western Kansas Council on Estate Planning and Giving. She was recognized in 2010 with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)/Kansas Society of Certified Public Accountants (KSCPA) Women to Watch award.&nbsp;

Jeff Peier, a 1980 FHSU finance and economics alumnus, is an attorney/managing partner for Klenda Austerman LLC in Wichita. Peier graduated magna cum laude from Fort Hays State, was an FHSU Torch Award recipient, and a Student Government Association president and vice president.&nbsp;

From FHSU, Peier furthered his education at the KU School of Law, where he received his Juris Doctorate degree. He has remained involved with FHSU by serving as a member and as president of the Alumni Association Board, has been hands-on with FHSU planning programs and booster activities, and is a Wooster Society member. In 2014, Peier received FHSU’s Alumni Achievement Award.&nbsp;

“I’m thankful for the dedication our alumni continue to show FHSU and their readiness to serve our university and the community. The experience brought by these new board members really demonstrates the talent our graduates have and the impact they have on their communities and those they serve,” said Jason Williby, FHSU Foundation president, and CEO.

FHSU Foundation Board of Trustees recently gathered in Hays to attend their annual business meeting on campus and the annual Tiger Auction fundraiser for Fort Hays State Athletics. With a full schedule of events on Friday, members started the day touring the newly renovated Rarick Hall and listened to a presentation by College of Education Dean Dr. Paul Adams.&nbsp;

The trustees then headed to Forsyth Library for a presentation about the upcoming renovations slated to begin in the next few years. After sharing lunch with FHSU Senior Leadership, trustees wrapped up the day by touring the Robbins Banking Institute, hearing from students about how they have been impacted by the generosity and philanthropy of FHSU donors.

On Saturday, trustees attended their annual business meeting and later shared a fun evening attending FHSU’s 13thAnnual Tiger Auction and Dinner.&nbsp;

“These meetings offer our trustees an inside view of what’s happening at Fort Hays State and an opportunity to see the changes that have only amplified the beauty of our historic campus,” Williby said.

The Foundation serves as the fundraising arm of Fort Hays State University. It raises and manages funds entrusted to it for the benefit of various needs in support of the university and works closely with FHSU to support its initiatives.&nbsp;

To learn more about the Fort Hays State Foundation, or to see its complete list of trustees, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDSAKvxVcchtfV1543l0Kpkfnac3VKB4hKHEHUlx1XbksXPfwx1oEL0HDwzvBqTQ0g-3D-3DAe4U_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemrIf-2BGx7budDSzKTgS60TpnPfutQjkRSlPfAHfM3iCPpbzhOVohhJUq29mmFJeu7briV2jPi-2FbDfCNIxMnb0ch20bZFWozspxy-2BgZzbEa9-2BJUv-2B6f6p4RLaW-2FAsbU0KDll2PIjuSF5xLqLWOq5zw6cOCi79hLloB0q4M6LlZxGJqEnjrd3xfiwCrdohoh7HOuySwyjFeMWMTg5fSrtk7ZUJIbMSjSma1seP1cf2egRDBYfqc25ZB3rTkfEntoHCyGtEQbFvujwkpLDQxOVD5iiw-3D-3D">https://foundation.fhsu.edu/board-of-trustees</a>&nbsp;or contact the Foundation office at 785-628-5620 or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661460052699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU FoundationThe Fort Hays State University Foundation recently appointed four new members to its Board of Trustees: Shelley Hunt, Denis Miller, Kathy Mitchell, and Jeff Peier.&nbsp;<h2>Shelley Hunt</h2>Shelley Hunt, senior director of risk optimization for Koch Industries Inc. in Wichita, joins the board with many years of experience and philanthropic service. Hunt, a 1985 Fort Hays State alumna, and 1995 Wichita State University graduate has served Koch Industries or its subsidiaries for more than 35 years. Among her numerous areas of expertise in accounting, management, and leadership, her main emphasis is risk assessment.&nbsp;Hunt is involved in a variety of community and professional organizations, including Risk and Insurance Management Society, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland, and Delta Zeta sorority, and is a former FHSU Alumni Board president. In 2002, Hunt was named one of Wichita Business Journal’s “40 under 40” and was a recipient of the Girl Scout Kansas Heartland Volunteer Service Award. She is a WaKeeney native and daughter of FHSU alumni Myron and Edna Deines.Denis MillerDenis Miller, a 1973 FHSU accounting alumnus, resides in Phillipsburg and offers years of accounting expertise. He worked in a variety of roles in the Wichita area before starting his own practice from his family home in 1984.&nbsp;In 1990, the practice expanded and merged with Vick and Mapes CPAs in Norton. The firm, now known as Mapes &amp; Miller CPAs, has six offices throughout Phillipsburg, Norton, Stockton, Quinter, WaKeeney, and Hill City, with five partners and 35 employees. Of its five partners, four are FHSU graduates. Miller has been involved with several FHSU Foundation boards and committees over the years and is excited to serve the board of trustees while supporting his alma mater.&nbsp;<h2>Kathy Mitchell</h2>Kathy Mitchell, 1981 Fort Hays State alumna, brings years of accounting experience with her to the board. Mitchell worked as a CPA/partner for Brungardt Hower Ward Elliott &amp; Pfeifer, L.C. from 1981-2017 and currently serves as chief operating officer for Smoky Hill Capital, Inc. in Russell.&nbsp;In addition to being a certified public accountant, Mitchell has served as a board member for the Kansas Board of Accountancy and as a past president for both the Kansas Society of CPAs and the Western Kansas Council on Estate Planning and Giving. She was recognized in 2010 with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)/Kansas Society of Certified Public Accountants (KSCPA) Women to Watch award.&nbsp;<h2>Jeff Peier</h2>Jeff Peier, a 1980 FHSU finance and economics alumnus, is an attorney/managing partner for Klenda Austerman LLC in Wichita. Peier graduated magna cum laude from Fort Hays State, was an FHSU Torch Award recipient, and a Student Government Association president and vice president.&nbsp;From FHSU, Peier furthered his education at the KU School of Law, where he received his Juris Doctorate degree. He has remained involved with FHSU by serving as a member and as president of the Alumni Association Board, has been hands-on with FHSU planning programs and booster activities, and is a Wooster Society member. In 2014, Peier received FHSU’s Alumni Achievement Award.&nbsp;<h2>Trustee Annual Board Meeting</h2>“I’m thankful for the dedication our alumni continue to show FHSU and their readiness to serve our university and the community. The experience brought by these new board members really demonstrates the talent our graduates have and the impact they have on their communities and those they serve,” said Jason Williby, FHSU Foundation president, and CEO.FHSU Foundation Board of Trustees recently gathered in Hays to attend their annual business meeting on campus and the annual Tiger Auction fundraiser for Fort Hays State Athletics. With a full schedule of events on Friday, members started the day touring the newly renovated Rarick Hall and listened to a presentation by College of Education Dean Dr. Paul Adams.&nbsp;The trustees then headed to Forsyth Library for a presentation about the upcoming renovations slated to begin in the next few years. After sharing lunch with FHSU Senior Leadership, trustees wrapped up the day by touring the Robbins Banking Institute, hearing from students about how they have been impacted by the generosity and philanthropy of FHSU donors.On Saturday, trustees attended their annual business meeting and later shared a fun evening attending FHSU’s 13thAnnual Tiger Auction and Dinner.&nbsp;“These meetings offer our trustees an inside view of what’s happening at Fort Hays State and an opportunity to see the changes that have only amplified the beauty of our historic campus,” Williby said.The Foundation serves as the fundraising arm of Fort Hays State University. It raises and manages funds entrusted to it for the benefit of various needs in support of the university and works closely with FHSU to support its initiatives.&nbsp;To learn more about the Fort Hays State Foundation, or to see its complete list of trustees, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDSAKvxVcchtfV1543l0Kpkfnac3VKB4hKHEHUlx1XbksXPfwx1oEL0HDwzvBqTQ0g-3D-3DAe4U_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemrIf-2BGx7budDSzKTgS60TpnPfutQjkRSlPfAHfM3iCPpbzhOVohhJUq29mmFJeu7briV2jPi-2FbDfCNIxMnb0ch20bZFWozspxy-2BgZzbEa9-2BJUv-2B6f6p4RLaW-2FAsbU0KDll2PIjuSF5xLqLWOq5zw6cOCi79hLloB0q4M6LlZxGJqEnjrd3xfiwCrdohoh7HOuySwyjFeMWMTg5fSrtk7ZUJIbMSjSma1seP1cf2egRDBYfqc25ZB3rTkfEntoHCyGtEQbFvujwkpLDQxOVD5iiw-3D-3D">https://foundation.fhsu.edu/board-of-trustees</a>&nbsp;or contact the Foundation office at 785-628-5620 or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>.

Four new members appointed to FHSU Foundation board

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is holding public meetings to help communities and public water supply systems learn about the Environmental Protection Agency’s new Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. Under the LCRR, public water supply systems are required to prepare and maintain an inventory of service line materials. This inventory is to be submitted to KDHE by Oct. 16, 2024.

Public water supply system decision-makers, operators and the public are invited to attend to learn more about the inventory requirements and actions that can be taken to reduce lead exposure risks in drinking water. Piping containing lead can become a potential health risk in drinking water. Some homes (typically built before 1988) may have lead service lines that connect to the public water supply system. Young children, infants and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead in drinking water and water used for formula because the physical and behavioral effects of lead occur at lower exposure levels in children.

KDHE staff will review the following topics:

Wednesday, Sept. 7 Hilton Garden Inn – Ballroom D 221 West 43rd Street &nbsp; 1 – 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays, KS 67601&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Meetings for other regions of the state will be announced once they are scheduled.

For more information about KDHE’s Lead Service Line Inventory requirements please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MDMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Nva2Fuc2FzLW15LnNoYXJlcG9pbnQuY29tL3BlcnNvbmFsL3BoaWxpcF9oYXJyaXNfa2RoZV9rc19nb3YvRG9jdW1lbnRzL0Rlc2t0b3AvS0RIRS5LUy5nb3YvTENSUj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.hKnwsngeV1cw3R6KUYzd0B2ek-iZJv8f3F3Rdjvipao/s/1305913623/br/143002336350-l" target="_blank">KDHE.KS.gov/LCRR</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621008205705.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is holding public meetings to help communities and public water supply systems learn about the Environmental Protection Agency’s new Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. Under the LCRR, public water supply systems are required to prepare and maintain an inventory of service line materials. This inventory is to be submitted to KDHE by Oct. 16, 2024.Public water supply system decision-makers, operators and the public are invited to attend to learn more about the inventory requirements and actions that can be taken to reduce lead exposure risks in drinking water. Piping containing lead can become a potential health risk in drinking water. Some homes (typically built before 1988) may have lead service lines that connect to the public water supply system. Young children, infants and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead in drinking water and water used for formula because the physical and behavioral effects of lead occur at lower exposure levels in children.KDHE staff will review the following topics:<ul>
 <li>Development of Lead Service Line InventoriesPublic Water Supply System ResponsibilitiesWater System Customer Cooperation</li><li>Public Water Supply System Responsibilities</li><li>Water System Customer Cooperation</li><li>Lead Exposure Health Risks from Drinking Water</li><li>Funding information for lead service line replacement</li>
 </ul>These first meetings will be held:Wednesday, Sept. 7 Hilton Garden Inn – Ballroom D 221 West 43rd Street &nbsp; 1 – 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays, KS 67601&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Meetings for other regions of the state will be announced once they are scheduled.For more information about KDHE’s Lead Service Line Inventory requirements please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MDMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Nva2Fuc2FzLW15LnNoYXJlcG9pbnQuY29tL3BlcnNvbmFsL3BoaWxpcF9oYXJyaXNfa2RoZV9rc19nb3YvRG9jdW1lbnRzL0Rlc2t0b3AvS0RIRS5LUy5nb3YvTENSUj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.hKnwsngeV1cw3R6KUYzd0B2ek-iZJv8f3F3Rdjvipao/s/1305913623/br/143002336350-l" target="_blank">KDHE.KS.gov/LCRR</a>.

Lead, copper in public water supplies the focus of Hays public meeting

NATOMA — The Natoma Labor Day Celebration car, truck, tractor and motorcycle show will be on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5, from 9 a.m. to noon with awards at 1 p.m. and parade at 2 p.m.&nbsp;The event will take place on Elm street, south of the one-way street in Natoma. 

All proceeds will go to benefit community improvement activities in Natoma.

For more information, contact Lone Wolf Car Club member at Don Burlison (785) 737-8288

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661178080054.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedNATOMA — The Natoma Labor Day Celebration car, truck, tractor and motorcycle show will be on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5, from 9 a.m. to noon with awards at 1 p.m. and parade at 2 p.m.&nbsp;The event will take place on Elm street, south of the one-way street in Natoma. All proceeds will go to benefit community improvement activities in Natoma.For more information, contact Lone Wolf Car Club member at Don Burlison (785) 737-8288

Natoma Labor Day celebration, car show will be Sept. 5

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661446494109.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>

Expert shares tips for overseeding cool-season lawns&nbsp;

By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Cool-season grasses, like the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue lawns common to many parts of Kansas, have had about enough of summer.&nbsp;

The state’s high temperatures and sporadic rainfall often cause cool-season varieties to become thin by summer’s end. September typically signals a good time to replenish those stands, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham.&nbsp;

“Start by mowing the grass short (1 to 1 ½ inches) and removing the clippings,” he said. “This will make it easier to achieve good seed-soil contact and increase the amount of light that will reach the young seedlings.”&nbsp;

Then, he says, check the lawn’s layer of thatch – an organic layer of dead and living shoots, stems and roots that develops between the zone of green vegetation and the soil surface.&nbsp;

“Normally, we’d want ¼ inch of thatch or less when overseeding,” Upham said. “If the thatch layer is ¾ inch or more, it is usually easier to use a sod cutter to remove it and start over with a new lawn. A power rake can be used to reduce a thatch layter that is less than ¾ inch, but more than ¼ inch.”&nbsp;

Once thatch is under control, Upham said homeowners can use a hand rake to roughen up soil in small areas. For larger areas, he suggests either a verticut machine or core aerator.&nbsp;

“A verticut machine has solid vertical blades that can be set to cut furrows in the soil,” he said. “A slit seeder is a verticut machine with a seed hopper added so the soil prep and seeding operation are combined.”&nbsp;

By contrast, a core aerator literally punches holes in the soil, depositing the cores on the surface of the ground.&nbsp;

“Each hole produces an excellent environment for seed germination and growth,” Upham said. “Make 3-4 passes with the core aerator to ensure enough holes for the seed.”&nbsp;

A core aerator also reduces the amount of water needed to germinate the seed. Aeration increases the water infiltration rate, decreases compaction and increases the amount of oxygen in the soil.&nbsp;

“Of the three methods (for large areas), I prefer the slit seeder for obtaining good seed to soil contact,” Upham said. “However, if watering is difficult, core aeration may be a better option.”&nbsp;

Upham noted that fertilizer should be applied to the lawn at rates suggested on the bag, regardless of which overseeding method is used.&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;available to view online&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q-PTrB68cho"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Expert shares tips for overseeding cool-season lawns&nbsp;</h2>By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN — Cool-season grasses, like the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue lawns common to many parts of Kansas, have had about enough of summer.&nbsp;The state’s high temperatures and sporadic rainfall often cause cool-season varieties to become thin by summer’s end. September typically signals a good time to replenish those stands, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham.&nbsp;“Start by mowing the grass short (1 to 1 ½ inches) and removing the clippings,” he said. “This will make it easier to achieve good seed-soil contact and increase the amount of light that will reach the young seedlings.”&nbsp;Then, he says, check the lawn’s layer of thatch – an organic layer of dead and living shoots, stems and roots that develops between the zone of green vegetation and the soil surface.&nbsp;“Normally, we’d want ¼ inch of thatch or less when overseeding,” Upham said. “If the thatch layer is ¾ inch or more, it is usually easier to use a sod cutter to remove it and start over with a new lawn. A power rake can be used to reduce a thatch layter that is less than ¾ inch, but more than ¼ inch.”&nbsp;<h2>Preparing the soil&nbsp;</h2>Once thatch is under control, Upham said homeowners can use a hand rake to roughen up soil in small areas. For larger areas, he suggests either a verticut machine or core aerator.&nbsp;“A verticut machine has solid vertical blades that can be set to cut furrows in the soil,” he said. “A slit seeder is a verticut machine with a seed hopper added so the soil prep and seeding operation are combined.”&nbsp;By contrast, a core aerator literally punches holes in the soil, depositing the cores on the surface of the ground.&nbsp;“Each hole produces an excellent environment for seed germination and growth,” Upham said. “Make 3-4 passes with the core aerator to ensure enough holes for the seed.”&nbsp;A core aerator also reduces the amount of water needed to germinate the seed. Aeration increases the water infiltration rate, decreases compaction and increases the amount of oxygen in the soil.&nbsp;“Of the three methods (for large areas), I prefer the slit seeder for obtaining good seed to soil contact,” Upham said. “However, if watering is difficult, core aeration may be a better option.”&nbsp;Upham noted that fertilizer should be applied to the lawn at rates suggested on the bag, regardless of which overseeding method is used.&nbsp;Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;available to view online&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cover image courtesy Pixabay

🎥 Lawn stressed? September is time for relief 

Kansas Association of Broadcasters

The newly-formed KAB Rising Star Award seeks to recognize young 
broadcasters (under the age of 40) who have made a significant impact on
 their stations and communities. Winners are selected based on their 
contributions to the industry, spirit of innovation, and community 
involvement. The KAB will present the Rising Star Awards at the Station 
Awards Dinner on Oct. 24 in Manhattan.

Matt Althouse, Eagle Communications, Great Bend

Matt started his radio career at KJCK-FM in Junction City in 2003 as 
on air talent and later, music director.&nbsp; He spent one year with Rocking
 M Radio in Great Bend in 2008 at KZRS working the mid-day shift.

In 2009 Matt joined Hull Broadcasting in Great Bend where he had the 
opportunity to be exposed to every facet of the business. From traffic 
logs and programming, to engineering, and later Operations Manager and 
Digital Sales Manager for Eagle Communications.

He was also Program Director for KBGL-FM from 2012 until 2021 when he
 accepted the position of General Manager for Eagle Communications in 
Great Bend.&nbsp;In his first year of station management, Matt and his sales 
team have hit all but one of their monthly quotas. He’s successfully 
navigated the replacement of an operations manager and news director and
 orchestrated the successful and profitable giveaway of a brand-new car 
for Great Bend radio’s summer promotion.

Matt sees himself as a problem solver. He enjoys helping clients and 
staff members solve their problems, and says, “There is no shortage of 
problems out there.” He looks back with pride on some successful cases, 
such as the plumber who showed up at the office as a one-man operation 
with a single truck who now runs a large fleet with storefronts in 
multiple communities–proof of the power of radio and a strategic 
advertising campaign.

Matt is also passionate about enriching the next generation of media 
professionals. He works hard to enable young people with opportunities 
to grow and succeed in the broadcast industry.

Away from the office, Matt has successfully navigated some challenges
 as well.&nbsp; As a single dad with two young children (Lucas and Emma) 
work/life balance is a top priority and a challenge that he has 
conquered.

Lily Wu has been a television journalist for nearly 12 years and 
began telling stories in her hometown of Wichita as a teenager with the 
Wichita East High School newspaper and KTQW TV, where she won a KAB 1st 
place award in Public Affairs in 2003.

In June 2020, she joined the Eyewitness News team as a co-anchor for 
the 4 p.m. newscast and multimedia journalist for KWCH. Lily also 
produces a weekly business and employment story for the “Building You” 
franchise and informs viewers of daily “Job of the Day” opportunities on
 KWCH at 4 p.m.

Lily earned a master’s degree in journalism from the University of 
Hong Kong, while serving as a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar. She also 
earned the distinction of Summa Cum Laude, graduating with two 
bachelor’s degrees in international business and integrated marketing 
communication from Wichita State University.&nbsp;She is dedicated to serving
 her community as an active volunteer for&nbsp;various organizations. She is a
 board member of the Steve Clark YMCA and the WSU Barton School of 
Business Advisory Council, director of the Miss Wichita Asian Festival 
Scholarship Pageant, and past president of the Wichita Asian 
Association. She has previously served on the boards of the WSU Alumni 
Association, Orpheum Theatre of Wichita, Botanica Chinese Garden of 
Friendship, Susan G Komen Wichita chapter, WSU SIFE, Visioneering 
Wichita, and Diversity Kansas.

Lily was involved in pageantry and placed 4th Runner-Up at the Miss 
Global 2017 pageant held in Cambodia. She won the titles of Miss Kansas 
United States 2012 and Miss Kansas Teen International 2003, and 
represented the USA at Miss World University and Miss Chinese World. She
 was named the “2020 Exceptional Young Leader” by the Wichita Regional 
Chamber of Commerce and a “2015 Leader in Diversity” by the Wichita 
Business Journal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661465331232.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Association of BroadcastersThe newly-formed KAB Rising Star Award seeks to recognize young 
broadcasters (under the age of 40) who have made a significant impact on
 their stations and communities. Winners are selected based on their 
contributions to the industry, spirit of innovation, and community 
involvement. The KAB will present the Rising Star Awards at the Station 
Awards Dinner on Oct. 24 in Manhattan.<h2>Rising Star Radio Award</h2>Matt Althouse, Eagle Communications, Great BendMatt started his radio career at KJCK-FM in Junction City in 2003 as 
on air talent and later, music director.&nbsp; He spent one year with Rocking
 M Radio in Great Bend in 2008 at KZRS working the mid-day shift.In 2009 Matt joined Hull Broadcasting in Great Bend where he had the 
opportunity to be exposed to every facet of the business. From traffic 
logs and programming, to engineering, and later Operations Manager and 
Digital Sales Manager for Eagle Communications.He was also Program Director for KBGL-FM from 2012 until 2021 when he
 accepted the position of General Manager for Eagle Communications in 
Great Bend.&nbsp;In his first year of station management, Matt and his sales 
team have hit all but one of their monthly quotas. He’s successfully 
navigated the replacement of an operations manager and news director and
 orchestrated the successful and profitable giveaway of a brand-new car 
for Great Bend radio’s summer promotion.Matt sees himself as a problem solver. He enjoys helping clients and 
staff members solve their problems, and says, “There is no shortage of 
problems out there.” He looks back with pride on some successful cases, 
such as the plumber who showed up at the office as a one-man operation 
with a single truck who now runs a large fleet with storefronts in 
multiple communities–proof of the power of radio and a strategic 
advertising campaign.Matt is also passionate about enriching the next generation of media 
professionals. He works hard to enable young people with opportunities 
to grow and succeed in the broadcast industry.Away from the office, Matt has successfully navigated some challenges
 as well.&nbsp; As a single dad with two young children (Lucas and Emma) 
work/life balance is a top priority and a challenge that he has 
conquered.<h2>Rising Star TV Award</h2>Lily Wu, KWCH, WichitaLily Wu has been a television journalist for nearly 12 years and 
began telling stories in her hometown of Wichita as a teenager with the 
Wichita East High School newspaper and KTQW TV, where she won a KAB 1st 
place award in Public Affairs in 2003.In June 2020, she joined the Eyewitness News team as a co-anchor for 
the 4 p.m. newscast and multimedia journalist for KWCH. Lily also 
produces a weekly business and employment story for the “Building You” 
franchise and informs viewers of daily “Job of the Day” opportunities on
 KWCH at 4 p.m.Lily earned a master’s degree in journalism from the University of 
Hong Kong, while serving as a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar. She also 
earned the distinction of Summa Cum Laude, graduating with two 
bachelor’s degrees in international business and integrated marketing 
communication from Wichita State University.&nbsp;She is dedicated to serving
 her community as an active volunteer for&nbsp;various organizations. She is a
 board member of the Steve Clark YMCA and the WSU Barton School of 
Business Advisory Council, director of the Miss Wichita Asian Festival 
Scholarship Pageant, and past president of the Wichita Asian 
Association. She has previously served on the boards of the WSU Alumni 
Association, Orpheum Theatre of Wichita, Botanica Chinese Garden of 
Friendship, Susan G Komen Wichita chapter, WSU SIFE, Visioneering 
Wichita, and Diversity Kansas.Lily was involved in pageantry and placed 4th Runner-Up at the Miss 
Global 2017 pageant held in Cambodia. She won the titles of Miss Kansas 
United States 2012 and Miss Kansas Teen International 2003, and 
represented the USA at Miss World University and Miss Chinese World. She
 was named the “2020 Exceptional Young Leader” by the Wichita Regional 
Chamber of Commerce and a “2015 Leader in Diversity” by the Wichita 
Business Journal.

Eagle's Althouse named Kan. broadcasting 'Rising Star'

Longtime Thomas More Prep-Marian supporter and leader Jean Ross died Wednesday at the age of 86

Ross took the role of president of 
TMP-Marian in 2000 — without accepting a salary. She 
led the school for 10 years, guiding it through numerous challenges and 
successes. Jean achieved many honors during her career, including being 
named the Outstanding Western Kansas Educator by Educational Sororities 
Phi Sigma Phi and Phi Delta Kappa, Chamber of Commerce Businesswoman of 
the Year, and was inducted into the Kansas Association of Independent 
and Religions Schools Hall of Fame in 2006.

Ross earned her BS in Elementary Education from Marian College in 
Fond Du Lac, WI, and an ED Specialist in Ed. Administration from Fort 
Hays State, KS. Before coming to TMP-Marian, Jean was a teacher at 
Catholic elementary and high schools in Wisconsin, Indiana and Kansas. 
In 1980, she returned to Hays as a public school&nbsp;principal and later 
joined the administrative team as assistant superintendent of USD 489.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661456258119.jpeg" alt="Ross" />
 <figcaption>Ross</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MLongtime Thomas More Prep-Marian supporter and leader Jean Ross died Wednesday at the age of 86Ross took the role of president of 
TMP-Marian in 2000 — without accepting a salary. She 
led the school for 10 years, guiding it through numerous challenges and 
successes. Jean achieved many honors during her career, including being 
named the Outstanding Western Kansas Educator by Educational Sororities 
Phi Sigma Phi and Phi Delta Kappa, Chamber of Commerce Businesswoman of 
the Year, and was inducted into the Kansas Association of Independent 
and Religions Schools Hall of Fame in 2006.Ross earned her BS in Elementary Education from Marian College in 
Fond Du Lac, WI, and an ED Specialist in Ed. Administration from Fort 
Hays State, KS. Before coming to TMP-Marian, Jean was a teacher at 
Catholic elementary and high schools in Wisconsin, Indiana and Kansas. 
In 1980, she returned to Hays as a public school&nbsp;principal and later 
joined the administrative team as assistant superintendent of USD 489.Out of her many roles, Ross felt most proud of her time at 
TMP-Marian. "The greatest honor and privilege of my life was to be 
president for ten years at TMP-Marian at a critical time to its 
survival," she said in&nbsp;2009. "My whole professional life seemed to be a preparation for this challenge. I thank God for this privilege."However, for all those at TMP-Marian in the past, present, and 
future, the privilege was and is ours. The great blessing of Jean's 
service life made the world a better place. Our heartfelt&nbsp;sympathies and
 prayers go out to the family and for Jean's soul. May she rest in peace
 and enjoy the eternal joy of being with our Lord. TMP-Marian

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