15th annual Rod Run scheduled this week in Hoxie

<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/2022/6/1654886286128.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

ELLIS—On 06/11/2022, The Ellis Police Department was dispatched to the Ellis Municipal Pool in the 300 block of Taylor Street, for a reported Criminal Threat. 

Hays Communications received a call from a pool employee who reported that a male, later identified as Robert Allen Brack, 59, of Ellis was at the pool making racially charged statements toward other pool patrons. 

When Brack was asked to leave, he stated that he was going to retrieve a firearm and harm pool patrons. 

Officers located Brack, on foot, in the area of the 400 block of Taylor. Upon seeing Law Enforcement, Brack attempted to flee. 

Brack was stopped and detained, and further investigation of the threat was initiated. 

Upon speaking with patrons of the pool, probable cause was developed and Brack was arrested on suspicion of Criminal Threat, Disorderly Conduct, and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. 

I would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Hays Communications, and the public, who reported this threat, which allowed for a quick resolution to this incident.

Office of the Chief of PoliceELLIS—On 06/11/2022, The Ellis Police Department was dispatched to the Ellis Municipal Pool in the 300 block of Taylor Street, for a reported Criminal Threat. Hays Communications received a call from a pool employee who reported that a male, later identified as Robert Allen Brack, 59, of Ellis was at the pool making racially charged statements toward other pool patrons. When Brack was asked to leave, he stated that he was going to retrieve a firearm and harm pool patrons. Officers located Brack, on foot, in the area of the 400 block of Taylor. Upon seeing Law Enforcement, Brack attempted to flee. Brack was stopped and detained, and further investigation of the threat was initiated. Upon speaking with patrons of the pool, probable cause was developed and Brack was arrested on suspicion of Criminal Threat, Disorderly Conduct, and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. I would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Hays Communications, and the public, who reported this threat, which allowed for a quick resolution to this incident.

Racially charged incident leads to arrest in Ellis

NORTON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 12a.m. Saturday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Fusion driven by 22-year-old Dustin Norris of Logan was westbound on K9 ten miles west of Logan.

The vehicle traveled into the north ditch, struck a field drive, became airborne, rolled and came to rest on its top in the ditch.

Norris was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Oliff-Boeve. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 12a.m. Saturday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a vehicle was westbound on K9 ten miles west of Logan.

The KHP released no addition details early Saturday afternoon. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

NORTON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 12a.m. Saturday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Fusion driven by 22-year-old Dustin Norris of Logan was westbound on K9 ten miles west of Logan.The vehicle traveled into the north ditch, struck a field drive, became airborne, rolled and came to rest on its top in the ditch.Norris was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Oliff-Boeve. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.--------NORTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 12a.m. Saturday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a vehicle was westbound on K9 ten miles west of Logan.The vehicle traveled into the north ditch, struck a field drive, became airborne, rolled and came to rest on its top in the ditch.The KHP released no addition details early Saturday afternoon. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

22-year-old dies in NW Kansas rollover crash

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The final steps in a four-year project to update flood plain maps for Hays were taken Thursday night by city commissioners. The new digital maps will be available online Wednesday.&nbsp;

The project dates back to 2017 when Ellis County was selected for a Paper Inventory Reduction (PIR) project funded by FEMA. 

In early 2018, Ellis County was then selected for a FEMA Risk MAP (Mapping, Assessment, and Planning) project to update floodplain mapping within the county. 

The city of Hays was still relying on paper maps created in 1986.

The new maps utilize contemporary Light Detecting and
Ranging (LIDAR) technology which is considered ten times more accurate than the data used
for the current maps, Public Works Director Jesse Rohr told commissioners.

Using the modern technology, federal and state agencies conducted countywide surveys of the flood plain, including towns and rural areas.&nbsp;

"All in all, for the city of Hays properties, we'll have about 258 fewer properties that are in the flood plain than we have currently. There were about 332 (properties) removed and about 74 (properties) added."

Rohr said the new maps are a good change.

"It still leaves us with about 1,200 parcels in the flood plain. I think we ranked first or second in the state of Kansas as far as the actual number of parcels in the flood plain. We have a lot."

The flood plain parcels are a mix of residential and commercial properties, with the majority being in residential areas.&nbsp;

Some of the significant residential areas that were added are not densely populated, including 12th Street behind O'Loughlin Elementary School and near the TMP-Marian school ball fields.

Conversely, about half of the Countryside Estates mobile home park in south-central Hays was removed from the flood plain map.

Most of Hays' flood plain is in the downtown area.&nbsp;

A more accurate measurement of ground elevation was the key to many of the parcel changes.

"The technology they used and the modeling they use now versus 36 years ago when they studied the current maps is much more effective and should be much more accurate," Rohr said. "With the baseline elevations, some are higher, some are lower. That data is available to us now as well."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Several review meetings were held for key stakeholders and the public, along with state engineers and officials from FEMA and the Kansas Dept. of Agriculture, during the four-year revision process.&nbsp;

The updated maps permit Hays and Ellis County to remain part of the National Insurance Flood Program.

"Without participation in the National Insurance Flood Program, residents here would not be able to get federally backed mortgages if they're in the flood plain," Rohr explained, "so this is important."

The commission unanimously adopted the modified flood regulations and new flood insurance rate maps.

Commissioners also approved a contract with a new city attorney.

Don Hoffman with the firm Dreiling, Bieker &amp; Hoffman, was sworn into office by Brenda Kitchen, city clerk.

The city previously had solicited requests for qualifications for city attorney services. Hoffman's proposal was the only one received.

"It is a one-year contract with a one-year auto-renew that can be terminated by either party," City Manager Toby Dougherty explained. "It does have a two-year firm end date."

In other business, commissioners approved a resolution to abate nuisance items on property at 313 E. 23rd Street within 10 days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654931922065.png" alt="The various colors represent different flood zones and floodways in Hays.&nbsp; There are several interactive layers which can be turned on/off for ease of viewing. The updated Hays flood plain map will be live to the public on June 15, 2022 on the Ellis County website. (FEMA)" />
 <figcaption>The various colors represent different flood zones and floodways in Hays.&nbsp; There are several interactive layers which can be turned on/off for ease of viewing. The updated Hays flood plain map will be live to the public on June 15, 2022 on the Ellis County website. (FEMA)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe final steps in a four-year project to update flood plain maps for Hays were taken Thursday night by city commissioners. The new digital maps will be available online Wednesday.&nbsp;The project dates back to 2017 when Ellis County was selected for a Paper Inventory Reduction (PIR) project funded by FEMA. In early 2018, Ellis County was then selected for a FEMA Risk MAP (Mapping, Assessment, and Planning) project to update floodplain mapping within the county. The city of Hays was still relying on paper maps created in 1986.The new maps utilize contemporary Light Detecting and
Ranging (LIDAR) technology which is considered ten times more accurate than the data used
for the current maps, Public Works Director Jesse Rohr told commissioners.Using the modern technology, federal and state agencies conducted countywide surveys of the flood plain, including towns and rural areas.&nbsp;"All in all, for the city of Hays properties, we'll have about 258 fewer properties that are in the flood plain than we have currently. There were about 332 (properties) removed and about 74 (properties) added."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654934130672.png" alt="(FEMA)" />
 <figcaption>(FEMA)</figcaption>
 </figure>Rohr said the new maps are a good change."It still leaves us with about 1,200 parcels in the flood plain. I think we ranked first or second in the state of Kansas as far as the actual number of parcels in the flood plain. We have a lot."The flood plain parcels are a mix of residential and commercial properties, with the majority being in residential areas.&nbsp;Some of the significant residential areas that were added are not densely populated, including 12th Street behind O'Loughlin Elementary School and near the TMP-Marian school ball fields.Conversely, about half of the Countryside Estates mobile home park in south-central Hays was removed from the flood plain map.Most of Hays' flood plain is in the downtown area.&nbsp;<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sat Jun 11 2022 03:24:09 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Hays Flood Plain Map Update"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H1M18S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/5CG4Z6KZ-1920.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/5CG4Z6KZ-9xXMpd9w.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/5CG4Z6KZ-3PoaQByF.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Hays Flood Plain Map Update" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>A more accurate measurement of ground elevation was the key to many of the parcel changes."The technology they used and the modeling they use now versus 36 years ago when they studied the current maps is much more effective and should be much more accurate," Rohr said. "With the baseline elevations, some are higher, some are lower. That data is available to us now as well."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Several review meetings were held for key stakeholders and the public, along with state engineers and officials from FEMA and the Kansas Dept. of Agriculture, during the four-year revision process.&nbsp;The updated maps permit Hays and Ellis County to remain part of the National Insurance Flood Program."Without participation in the National Insurance Flood Program, residents here would not be able to get federally backed mortgages if they're in the flood plain," Rohr explained, "so this is important."The commission unanimously adopted the modified flood regulations and new flood insurance rate maps.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654936439934.jpeg" alt="Don Hoffman was sworn in Thursday as the new Hays city attorney.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Don Hoffman was sworn in Thursday as the new Hays city attorney.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also approved a contract with a new city attorney.Don Hoffman with the firm Dreiling, Bieker &amp; Hoffman, was sworn into office by Brenda Kitchen, city clerk.The city previously had solicited requests for qualifications for city attorney services. Hoffman's proposal was the only one received."It is a one-year contract with a one-year auto-renew that can be terminated by either party," City Manager Toby Dougherty explained. "It does have a two-year firm end date."In other business, commissioners approved a resolution to abate nuisance items on property at 313 E. 23rd Street within 10 days.

🎥 1986 flood maps for Hays updated, digitized and now interactive

This placeholder name derives from my own cohort’s moniker—Generation X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gen X took our name from a novel by Douglas Coupland.&nbsp;&nbsp;We see ourselves as so ironic, jaded and snarky, the only way to name us is to choose a non-name, like Malcom X did.&nbsp;&nbsp;Future generations should not be bound by this.&nbsp;&nbsp;Generation Y was quickly renamed Millennials, and now it is time for Gen Z to get a permanent name.

San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge proposes to rename Gen Z as iGen, or Internet Generation, more specifically referencing Apple’s iPhone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her research indicates a sharp, generational break occurring right around the time people became teenagers in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;iGen never experienced teenage or adult life without wireless, Internet-capable mobile devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their phones and social media accounts are integral to their self-identities and their lives.

Twenge cites surveys of teenagers conducted since the mid-1970s, allowing her to compare different cohorts at the same point in life.&nbsp;&nbsp;She finds that iGen is more focused on security and more anxious than the later Boomers, Gen X, or Millennials.&nbsp;&nbsp;She also points out that are in no hurry to act like adults, for example by learning to drive.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge finds that they wait longer to become sexually active but are more likely to exchange explicit images through texting and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;This has both positive implications (fewer teen pregnancies and less transmission of STIs) and negative ones (the images can be abused by bullies).&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, they log several hours of screen time per day, usually checking social media or playing video games.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Like many other social scientists, Twenge documents that “none” is fastest-growing religious affiliation among iGen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most passionately advocate full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some churches and other faith traditions are open and affirming, but many are not.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Many iGeners also reject intolerance based on race, ethnicity, ability, or gender.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inclusiveness is a passion and an expectation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge notes that most of their social media contacts are people they have never met in person, including people in other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many are furious at older generations for doing too little about climate change.

In the classroom, I find iGen to be kind and sincere.&nbsp;&nbsp;They get impatient if they cannot see the immediate, practical value of something.&nbsp;&nbsp;This can be frustrating, particularly if parents get involved— once unimaginable at the college level, but a common scenario today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some grew up reading entire book series (like Harry Potter), others have never finished a single book, and few are in between.

I like iGen—their kindness, their inclusion, and their insistence on getting something meaningful out of every experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Theirs will not be a generation of clock watchers, paper pushers or box checkers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, I have never seen such high levels of anxiety among college students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting well before the pandemic, they fear the future, worry too much about getting things just right, and crave security.&nbsp;Twenge pins the blame to overreliance on smartphones and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;I also wish our society had a healthier relationship with faith and spirituality--more awareness of options beyond evangelical and “none.”&nbsp;

Will iGen be able to become adults and still find the meaning, happiness, and the security they crave?&nbsp;&nbsp;Their future—and ours—depends on it.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>What shall we call “Generation Z”?This placeholder name derives from my own cohort’s moniker—Generation X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gen X took our name from a novel by Douglas Coupland.&nbsp;&nbsp;We see ourselves as so ironic, jaded and snarky, the only way to name us is to choose a non-name, like Malcom X did.&nbsp;&nbsp;Future generations should not be bound by this.&nbsp;&nbsp;Generation Y was quickly renamed Millennials, and now it is time for Gen Z to get a permanent name.San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge proposes to rename Gen Z as iGen, or Internet Generation, more specifically referencing Apple’s iPhone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her research indicates a sharp, generational break occurring right around the time people became teenagers in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;iGen never experienced teenage or adult life without wireless, Internet-capable mobile devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their phones and social media accounts are integral to their self-identities and their lives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Twenge cites surveys of teenagers conducted since the mid-1970s, allowing her to compare different cohorts at the same point in life.&nbsp;&nbsp;She finds that iGen is more focused on security and more anxious than the later Boomers, Gen X, or Millennials.&nbsp;&nbsp;She also points out that are in no hurry to act like adults, for example by learning to drive.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge finds that they wait longer to become sexually active but are more likely to exchange explicit images through texting and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;This has both positive implications (fewer teen pregnancies and less transmission of STIs) and negative ones (the images can be abused by bullies).&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, they log several hours of screen time per day, usually checking social media or playing video games.&nbsp;&nbsp;Like many other social scientists, Twenge documents that “none” is fastest-growing religious affiliation among iGen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most passionately advocate full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some churches and other faith traditions are open and affirming, but many are not.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Many iGeners also reject intolerance based on race, ethnicity, ability, or gender.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inclusiveness is a passion and an expectation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge notes that most of their social media contacts are people they have never met in person, including people in other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many are furious at older generations for doing too little about climate change.In the classroom, I find iGen to be kind and sincere.&nbsp;&nbsp;They get impatient if they cannot see the immediate, practical value of something.&nbsp;&nbsp;This can be frustrating, particularly if parents get involved— once unimaginable at the college level, but a common scenario today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some grew up reading entire book series (like Harry Potter), others have never finished a single book, and few are in between.I like iGen—their kindness, their inclusion, and their insistence on getting something meaningful out of every experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Theirs will not be a generation of clock watchers, paper pushers or box checkers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, I have never seen such high levels of anxiety among college students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting well before the pandemic, they fear the future, worry too much about getting things just right, and crave security.&nbsp;Twenge pins the blame to overreliance on smartphones and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;I also wish our society had a healthier relationship with faith and spirituality--more awareness of options beyond evangelical and “none.”&nbsp;Will iGen be able to become adults and still find the meaning, happiness, and the security they crave?&nbsp;&nbsp;Their future—and ours—depends on it.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Time for Gen Z to get a permanent name

LAWRENCE — Forty-nine University of Kansas School of Law students 
contributed 2,721 hours of free legal services over the past year.

Students
 prepared tax returns for low-income residents, represented individuals 
in the KU Court of Parking Appeals, drafted petitions for families 
seeking guardianship of their adult children with disabilities and 
worked with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, prosecutors’ 
offices and public defenders’ offices.

“Lawyers have a responsibility to perform pro bono service and promote access to justice,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://law.ku.edu/people/meredith-schnug">Meredith Schnug</a>,
 clinical associate professor and chair of KU Law’s Pro Bono Committee. 
“We are so proud of KU Law students for being committed to pro bono 
service and making a difference in their communities.”

Samuel Crowley, Class of 2024, Hays, was among the students achieving the milestone.

Pro bono work is defined as uncompensated, law-related work that 
benefits the public, such as through a nonprofit organization or 
government agency.

Nine KU Law students participated in a new pro bono guardianship 
project last fall. Carly Booth, L’06, set the new project in motion, 
modeling it after a previously existing, similar program that KU Law 
students volunteered for in Wichita. Students worked with local agencies
 to provide services in adult guardianship cases for families.

“As a mom of three boys, I understand intimately the level of concern
 you can have for a vulnerable loved one,” said Caitlin McPartland, a 
first-year student who volunteered for the project. “And I now better 
understand how the complexity of the legal system inhibits so many 
people from accessing it. Participating in this project gave me an 
intimate glimpse of the emotional rewards I will find from being a 
lawyer in the Kansas City area, and because of my experience, I am 
looking forward to the future more than ever.”

In addition, 28 students were honored with Pro Bono Distinction for 
completing 50 hours or more of pro bono service throughout their law 
school career. Collectively, members of the Class of 2022 completed 
4,923 hours of pro bono service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654699827520.jpeg" alt="KU Law students Ryan Love, Cathryn Lind and Joan Lee, all participants of the Guardianship Clinic. KU News Service photo" />
 <figcaption>KU Law students Ryan Love, Cathryn Lind and Joan Lee, all participants of the Guardianship Clinic. KU News Service photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — Forty-nine University of Kansas School of Law students 
contributed 2,721 hours of free legal services over the past year.Students
 prepared tax returns for low-income residents, represented individuals 
in the KU Court of Parking Appeals, drafted petitions for families 
seeking guardianship of their adult children with disabilities and 
worked with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, prosecutors’ 
offices and public defenders’ offices.“Lawyers have a responsibility to perform pro bono service and promote access to justice,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://law.ku.edu/people/meredith-schnug">Meredith Schnug</a>,
 clinical associate professor and chair of KU Law’s Pro Bono Committee. 
“We are so proud of KU Law students for being committed to pro bono 
service and making a difference in their communities.”Samuel Crowley, Class of 2024, Hays, was among the students achieving the milestone.Pro bono work is defined as uncompensated, law-related work that 
benefits the public, such as through a nonprofit organization or 
government agency.Nine KU Law students participated in a new pro bono guardianship 
project last fall. Carly Booth, L’06, set the new project in motion, 
modeling it after a previously existing, similar program that KU Law 
students volunteered for in Wichita. Students worked with local agencies
 to provide services in adult guardianship cases for families.“As a mom of three boys, I understand intimately the level of concern
 you can have for a vulnerable loved one,” said Caitlin McPartland, a 
first-year student who volunteered for the project. “And I now better 
understand how the complexity of the legal system inhibits so many 
people from accessing it. Participating in this project gave me an 
intimate glimpse of the emotional rewards I will find from being a 
lawyer in the Kansas City area, and because of my experience, I am 
looking forward to the future more than ever.”In addition, 28 students were honored with Pro Bono Distinction for 
completing 50 hours or more of pro bono service throughout their law 
school career. Collectively, members of the Class of 2022 completed 
4,923 hours of pro bono service.

Hays law student at KU among those reaching pro bono milestone

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654886258920.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;

Can one man’s journey change history?&nbsp;

“Yes,” said writer and historian Deb Goodrich. She points to William Becknell’s 1821 trade mission to Mexico as a pivotal point in the history of the west. Now she is leading the effort to commemorate the bicentennial of the Santa Fe Trail.&nbsp;

Goodrich is a journalist, historian and television host. A Virginia native, she was a student at Washburn University who became enamored of western history. She is now historian in residence at Fort Wallace in Kansas. Among many other things, she chairs the Santa Fe Trail 200 committee, which is commemorating the bicentennial of this historic trail.&nbsp;

“In 1821, change was racing across the west like a prairie fire,” Goodrich said. “Missouri was a brand new state and Mexico was a newly liberated nation.”&nbsp;

Missouri was also in a financial depression. A Missouri salt-maker named William Becknell was one of those in financial trouble. He was on the verge of going to jail because he could not pay his debts.&nbsp;

In September 1821, Becknell and five companions headed west to hunt and trade horses and mules. They traveled hundreds of miles by horseback through challenging territory. Nearly two-and-a-half months later, they arrived in Santa Fe.&nbsp;

Their timing was good. Since Mexico had just gained its independence from Spain, its citizens were eager to trade with the neighboring country to the north, unlike the Spanish conquistadors. According to legend, Becknell’s trade mission was so successful that when he returned to Missouri, he slashed open a rawhide bag of silver coins and spilled onto the cobblestone street. Observers literally saw the riches resulting from this trading relationship, and others joined in.&nbsp;

“Becknell’s legendary trip inaugurated a new era in American and Mexican history,” Goodrich said. “While William Becknell’s successful trip into Mexico was history-making, it was only opening the door.” Eventually this region would become the state of New Mexico.&nbsp;

There were also consequences for the indigenous tribes and the military in this region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Native tribes were displaced. Military posts were established, including Fort Riley, Fort Larned and more.&nbsp;

This was the beginning of what would become the great prairie highway now known as the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. In 1825, George Sibley surveyed what would become known as the “highway between nations.”&nbsp;

By 1855, the value of traded goods on the trail was estimated at $5 million. This route of commerce functioned for nearly 60 years until the coming of the railroad. Modern highways continue as a route of travel and commerce.&nbsp;

The Santa Fe Trail Association is a non-profit organization that was established in 1986 to protect, preserve and promote the historic trail. Congress designated the Santa Fe Trail as a national historic trail in 1987. Joanne VanCoevern of Salina is the executive director of the SFTA. The SFTA is commemorating the bicentennial of the trail from 2021 to 2025.&nbsp;

“Continuing our official commemoration through 2025 gives us the opportunity to build on the relationships we have established, to expand our audience and share stories on a deeper level,” Goodrich said. Local chapters of the SFTA in Missouri, Kansas, Colorado and New Mexico promote the trail in their regions. Notably, more of the trail is found in Kansas than any other state.&nbsp;

Kansas Tourism has developed promotional information about attractions and museums related to the trail in communities such as Olathe, Fairway, Gardner, Leavenworth, Council Grove, Great Bend, Lyons, Dodge City, Ulysses, Elkhart; and rural communities such as Pawnee Rock, population 193 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail.org/">www.santafetrail.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail200.org/">www.santafetrail200.org</a>.&nbsp;

Can one man’s journey change history? In the case of William Becknell two centuries ago, it did.&nbsp;

We commend the chapters of the Santa Fe Trail Association, Deb Goodrich, Joanne VanCoevern, and all others involved with the association for making a difference by promoting and preserving this history.&nbsp;

As stated on the SFTA website: “The Santa Fe Trail was a route of commerce but quickly became a route of cultural exchange that is still with us, and still benefits us, today.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654696606408.png" alt="Screen Shot 2022-06-08 at 8.56.23 AM.png" />
 <figcaption>Screen Shot 2022-06-08 at 8.56.23 AM.png</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp; Can one man’s journey change history?&nbsp;“Yes,” said writer and historian Deb Goodrich. She points to William Becknell’s 1821 trade mission to Mexico as a pivotal point in the history of the west. Now she is leading the effort to commemorate the bicentennial of the Santa Fe Trail.&nbsp;Goodrich is a journalist, historian and television host. A Virginia native, she was a student at Washburn University who became enamored of western history. She is now historian in residence at Fort Wallace in Kansas. Among many other things, she chairs the Santa Fe Trail 200 committee, which is commemorating the bicentennial of this historic trail.&nbsp;“In 1821, change was racing across the west like a prairie fire,” Goodrich said. “Missouri was a brand new state and Mexico was a newly liberated nation.”&nbsp;Missouri was also in a financial depression. A Missouri salt-maker named William Becknell was one of those in financial trouble. He was on the verge of going to jail because he could not pay his debts.&nbsp;In September 1821, Becknell and five companions headed west to hunt and trade horses and mules. They traveled hundreds of miles by horseback through challenging territory. Nearly two-and-a-half months later, they arrived in Santa Fe.&nbsp;Their timing was good. Since Mexico had just gained its independence from Spain, its citizens were eager to trade with the neighboring country to the north, unlike the Spanish conquistadors. According to legend, Becknell’s trade mission was so successful that when he returned to Missouri, he slashed open a rawhide bag of silver coins and spilled onto the cobblestone street. Observers literally saw the riches resulting from this trading relationship, and others joined in.&nbsp;“Becknell’s legendary trip inaugurated a new era in American and Mexican history,” Goodrich said. “While William Becknell’s successful trip into Mexico was history-making, it was only opening the door.” Eventually this region would become the state of New Mexico.&nbsp;There were also consequences for the indigenous tribes and the military in this region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Native tribes were displaced. Military posts were established, including Fort Riley, Fort Larned and more.&nbsp;This was the beginning of what would become the great prairie highway now known as the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. In 1825, George Sibley surveyed what would become known as the “highway between nations.”&nbsp;By 1855, the value of traded goods on the trail was estimated at $5 million. This route of commerce functioned for nearly 60 years until the coming of the railroad. Modern highways continue as a route of travel and commerce.&nbsp;The Santa Fe Trail Association is a non-profit organization that was established in 1986 to protect, preserve and promote the historic trail. Congress designated the Santa Fe Trail as a national historic trail in 1987. Joanne VanCoevern of Salina is the executive director of the SFTA. The SFTA is commemorating the bicentennial of the trail from 2021 to 2025.&nbsp;“Continuing our official commemoration through 2025 gives us the opportunity to build on the relationships we have established, to expand our audience and share stories on a deeper level,” Goodrich said. Local chapters of the SFTA in Missouri, Kansas, Colorado and New Mexico promote the trail in their regions. Notably, more of the trail is found in Kansas than any other state.&nbsp;Kansas Tourism has developed promotional information about attractions and museums related to the trail in communities such as Olathe, Fairway, Gardner, Leavenworth, Council Grove, Great Bend, Lyons, Dodge City, Ulysses, Elkhart; and rural communities such as Pawnee Rock, population 193 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail.org/">www.santafetrail.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail200.org/">www.santafetrail200.org</a>.&nbsp;Can one man’s journey change history? In the case of William Becknell two centuries ago, it did.&nbsp;We commend the chapters of the Santa Fe Trail Association, Deb Goodrich, Joanne VanCoevern, and all others involved with the association for making a difference by promoting and preserving this history.&nbsp;As stated on the SFTA website: “The Santa Fe Trail was a route of commerce but quickly became a route of cultural exchange that is still with us, and still benefits us, today.”&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Deb Goodrich, Santa Fe Trail Association 

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Fort Hays State University Police Chief Ed Howell.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: FHSU Police Chief Ed Howell" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=2hnkh-1249963-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Fort Hays State University Police Chief Ed Howell.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU Police Chief Ed Howell

After a pleasant Friday with a high temperature of 85 projected, the National Weather Service is calling for the mercury to shoot up well into next week.

A high of 94 is predicted Saturday, increasing to 99 on Sunday. Monday's predicted high is 102, with Tuesday expected to top out at 97.

A front bringing a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms will cool things off a bit Tuesday night, with Wednesday's projected high dropping to 85.

Overnight, Hays received just less than a quarter-inch of rain.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654869245247.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a pleasant Friday with a high temperature of 85 projected, the National Weather Service is calling for the mercury to shoot up well into next week.A high of 94 is predicted Saturday, increasing to 99 on Sunday. Monday's predicted high is 102, with Tuesday expected to top out at 97.A front bringing a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms will cool things off a bit Tuesday night, with Wednesday's projected high dropping to 85.Overnight, Hays received just less than a quarter-inch of rain.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Warmer this afternoon under partly cloudy skies and relatively light winds. <a href="https://t.co/xm69yNmZUV">pic.twitter.com/xm69yNmZUV</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1535243225761456130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Summer heat arriving with a vengeance this weekend in NW Kan.

The city of Hays has been considering the need for another fire station for at least the past 18 years. Chief Ryan Hagans knows that because it's how long he's been with the fire department.&nbsp;

It's actually been discussed since the 1990s, with different locations considered, according to city staff research.

Now that the city has an additional revenue stream through its share of the Ellis County sales tax, plans have finally come together and were shown to the public during an open house Wednesday night.

The other factor kicking the proposed project into high gear is growth, residential and commercial, in northwest Hays.

"It's just time," Hagans said during the come and go event at Thirsty's The Venue.

"You look at other towns our size, Dodge City, they have two stations. Garden City is looking at building their third station.

"We can get our equipment spread out and hopefully have a better response time to different areas of town. We can get a fire truck on scene in a real emergency, quicker, so we can go to work and help save property and lives."

The current response time to a fire emergency in Hays, from dispatch to arrival on scene, averages 4.5 minutes.

To keep response times short, the federal ISO (Insurance Services Office) recommends a local fire station be no more than 1.5 road miles from any area of the city.&nbsp;

The fire station in downtown Hays, opened in 1974 at 1507 Main, is further than 1.5 miles from the new development in the northwest part of the city.&nbsp;The city's other fire station, built in 2010, is at the Hays Regional Airport  and is staffed only during commercial aviation operations. It's a Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

"We're doing really well with our response time," Hagans said, "but with the outer reaches of the community, the response times are going to get longer, especially up in that area of town."&nbsp;

According to Hagans, the city of Hays Fire Department is an ISO PPC 2 (Property Protection Classification), putting it in the top 2% in Kansas and the top 4.8% in the United States.&nbsp;

Another fire station in northwest Hays would enhance the city's ISO fire rating and could result in lower insurance rates for property owners, although the city has no control over that. Owners would have to check with their insurance agents.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6c04705e-4113-42eb-90a8-ac8489c074cd">proposed station</a> would be built&nbsp;at 1732 W. 41st, just east of the Highway 183 bypass, on land already owned by the city.&nbsp;

"We can just jump on the bypass and go. We'd be using major arterial streets," Hagans pointed out. "Downtown there's stop sign after stop sign, stop, start, speed up, slow down.

"One of our water production wells sits on that property. So the city bought it a few years ago (in 2016) to protect the water well and with the intention of building a fire station there in the future. And it looks like the future is about to commence," Hagans said with a smile.

The project will be funded by the 1/4 cent county sales tax approved by voters in 2020 for improving emergency services, with the city of Hays receiving approximately $700,000 to $900,000 in annual revenue for a period of 10 years. A portion of the city's share of that tax is already being used for quality of life projects.

Total project cost is estimated to be $5.5 million. There are no plans to hire more personnel or purchase additional firefighting equipment.&nbsp;

During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the firefighters were split between the two facilities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 among the first responders.&nbsp;

It became apparent both locations could be staffed full-time with existing staff.

The fire department has two aerial trucks and three engines.&nbsp;

"We may keep the ladder trucks downtown where there are taller buildings," Hagans thought, but he knows "there'll be a learning curve and the department will have to be flexible."

People attending the open house had questions and a few concerns, especially about more sirens and lights in the West 41st neighborhood. The city mailed about 100 notification letters to residents in that area.&nbsp;

Hagans said there is a misconception that fire trucks are blaring their sirens all the time.&nbsp;

"We're averaging 0.3 calls per day, less than one call a day, between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. that requires lights and sirens.

"We'll hit the siren at the intersection if there is a vehicle there, meeting people on the road, but just to utilize it when there's no traffic, no."&nbsp;

The fire department makes every effort to use lights and sirens only for life-threatening emergencies, he added.

The new fire house design was done by Richard Kraybill, of Kraybill Associates in Wichita.&nbsp;

The firm has designed about 12 firehouses in the Wichita area.

Kraybill said there's been a lot of input on the Hays project from local firefighters.

"The experts are the firefighters. This is a home away from home, not just a dormitory, and on holidays, their families may come to visit," Kraybill said.

The design proposal featured at the open house resembles a residential home with private bunkrooms (bedrooms) and bathrooms, a pitched roof, multiple windows, and large garage doors. The façade would be manmade limestone.

"It will have a near-residential character, rather than that of a civic building," stressed Kraybill. "Comfortable and easy to maintain."

There are 21 city firefighters, working in three shifts of seven on-duty personnel. The work schedule is 24 hours on, followed by 48 hours off.

The downtown location, which also houses the city's IT system, is prone to flooding. The IT equipment would be moved to the new proposed location.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654813104263.jpeg" alt="Ryan Hagans, Hays fire chief, talks during an open house Wednesday night about the plan for a second fire station. It would be built at 1732 W. 41st for faster emergency response times to the expanding growth in the northwest part of the city. (Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Ryan Hagans, Hays fire chief, talks during an open house Wednesday night about the plan for a second fire station. It would be built at 1732 W. 41st for faster emergency response times to the expanding growth in the northwest part of the city. (Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays has been considering the need for another fire station for at least the past 18 years. Chief Ryan Hagans knows that because it's how long he's been with the fire department.&nbsp;It's actually been discussed since the 1990s, with different locations considered, according to city staff research.Now that the city has an additional revenue stream through its share of the Ellis County sales tax, plans have finally come together and were shown to the public during an open house Wednesday night.The other factor kicking the proposed project into high gear is growth, residential and commercial, in northwest Hays."It's just time," Hagans said during the come and go event at Thirsty's The Venue."You look at other towns our size, Dodge City, they have two stations. Garden City is looking at building their third station."We can get our equipment spread out and hopefully have a better response time to different areas of town. We can get a fire truck on scene in a real emergency, quicker, so we can go to work and help save property and lives."The current response time to a fire emergency in Hays, from dispatch to arrival on scene, averages 4.5 minutes.To keep response times short, the federal ISO (Insurance Services Office) recommends a local fire station be no more than 1.5 road miles from any area of the city.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654813295210.jpeg" alt="The average response time in Hays by the fire department is currently 4.5 minutes. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The average response time in Hays by the fire department is currently 4.5 minutes. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>The fire station in downtown Hays, opened in 1974 at 1507 Main, is further than 1.5 miles from the new development in the northwest part of the city.&nbsp;The city's other fire station, built in 2010, is at the Hays Regional Airport and is staffed only during commercial aviation operations. It's a Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)."We're doing really well with our response time," Hagans said, "but with the outer reaches of the community, the response times are going to get longer, especially up in that area of town."&nbsp;<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Thu Jun 09 2022 20:25:07 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="2nd Fire Station Open House"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H1M5S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/niBfEAuH-1920.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/niBfEAuH-9xXMpd9w.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/niBfEAuH-3PoaQByF.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="2nd Fire Station Open House" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>According to Hagans, the city of Hays Fire Department is an ISO PPC 2 (Property Protection Classification), putting it in the top 2% in Kansas and the top 4.8% in the United States.&nbsp;Another fire station in northwest Hays would enhance the city's ISO fire rating and could result in lower insurance rates for property owners, although the city has no control over that. Owners would have to check with their insurance agents.The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6c04705e-4113-42eb-90a8-ac8489c074cd">proposed station</a> would be built&nbsp;at 1732 W. 41st, just east of the Highway 183 bypass, on land already owned by the city.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654820491015.jpeg" alt="The second fire station would be built at 41st Street and Post Road on city-owned land. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The second fire station would be built at 41st Street and Post Road on city-owned land. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>"We can just jump on the bypass and go. We'd be using major arterial streets," Hagans pointed out. "Downtown there's stop sign after stop sign, stop, start, speed up, slow down."One of our water production wells sits on that property. So the city bought it a few years ago (in 2016) to protect the water well and with the intention of building a fire station there in the future. And it looks like the future is about to commence," Hagans said with a smile.The project will be funded by the 1/4 cent county sales tax approved by voters in 2020 for improving emergency services, with the city of Hays receiving approximately $700,000 to $900,000 in annual revenue for a period of 10 years. A portion of the city's share of that tax is already being used for quality of life projects.Total project cost is estimated to be $5.5 million. There are no plans to hire more personnel or purchase additional firefighting equipment.&nbsp;During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the firefighters were split between the two facilities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 among the first responders.&nbsp;It became apparent both locations could be staffed full-time with existing staff.The fire department has two aerial trucks and three engines.&nbsp;"We may keep the ladder trucks downtown where there are taller buildings," Hagans thought, but he knows "there'll be a learning curve and the department will have to be flexible."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654820175887.jpeg" alt="(City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>(City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654824464068.jpeg" alt="Firefighters were on hand to answer questions during Wednesday's open house at Thirsty's The Venue. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters were on hand to answer questions during Wednesday's open house at Thirsty's The Venue. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>People attending the open house had questions and a few concerns, especially about more sirens and lights in the West 41st neighborhood. The city mailed about 100 notification letters to residents in that area.&nbsp;Hagans said there is a misconception that fire trucks are blaring their sirens all the time.&nbsp;"We're averaging 0.3 calls per day, less than one call a day, between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. that requires lights and sirens."We'll hit the siren at the intersection if there is a vehicle there, meeting people on the road, but just to utilize it when there's no traffic, no."&nbsp;The fire department makes every effort to use lights and sirens only for life-threatening emergencies, he added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654821746201.jpeg" alt="The new fire station would be designed to fit in with the character of the surrounding residential neighborhood. (Courtesy Kraybill Associates)" />
 <figcaption>The new fire station would be designed to fit in with the character of the surrounding residential neighborhood. (Courtesy Kraybill Associates)</figcaption>
 </figure>The new fire house design was done by Richard Kraybill, of Kraybill Associates in Wichita.&nbsp;The firm has designed about 12 firehouses in the Wichita area.Kraybill said there's been a lot of input on the Hays project from local firefighters."The experts are the firefighters. This is a home away from home, not just a dormitory, and on holidays, their families may come to visit," Kraybill said.The design proposal featured at the open house resembles a residential home with private bunkrooms (bedrooms) and bathrooms, a pitched roof, multiple windows, and large garage doors. The façade would be manmade limestone."It will have a near-residential character, rather than that of a civic building," stressed Kraybill. "Comfortable and easy to maintain."There are 21 city firefighters, working in three shifts of seven on-duty personnel. The work schedule is 24 hours on, followed by 48 hours off.The downtown location, which also houses the city's IT system, is prone to flooding. The IT equipment would be moved to the new proposed location.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥HAGANS: 'It's just time.' Fire chief supports 2nd station funded by current county sales tax

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly this week announced $4,697,713 has been awarded to Kansas sexual and domestic violence programs through the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act administered by the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act.

Among the grant recipients is Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, based in Hays. The organization will receive just more than $147,000 in funding.

The funding&nbsp;will&nbsp;assist&nbsp;sexual assault support centers&nbsp;with&nbsp;transitioning&nbsp;to virtual/remote&nbsp;support services and&nbsp;increase their&nbsp;capacity to&nbsp;offer services&nbsp;to sexual assault survivors.&nbsp;The funds will also&nbsp;go toward measures to&nbsp;increase&nbsp;access to COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and mobile health units to&nbsp;promote public health.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This funding will help sexual and domestic abuse survivors access the support and resources they need – no matter where they are in the state,” Kelly said. “We will continue using every tool we have to keep Kansans safe and healthy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594750931446.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorTOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly this week announced $4,697,713 has been awarded to Kansas sexual and domestic violence programs through the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act administered by the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act.Among the grant recipients is Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, based in Hays. The organization will receive just more than $147,000 in funding.The funding&nbsp;will&nbsp;assist&nbsp;sexual assault support centers&nbsp;with&nbsp;transitioning&nbsp;to virtual/remote&nbsp;support services and&nbsp;increase their&nbsp;capacity to&nbsp;offer services&nbsp;to sexual assault survivors.&nbsp;The funds will also&nbsp;go toward measures to&nbsp;increase&nbsp;access to COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and mobile health units to&nbsp;promote public health.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This funding will help sexual and domestic abuse survivors access the support and resources they need – no matter where they are in the state,” Kelly said. “We will continue using every tool we have to keep Kansans safe and healthy.”

Hays-based Options among ARPA grant recipients

As a first-generation college student, I know on a deeply personal level the importance of the Fort Hays State University drive to offer the best value in higher education – anywhere! We believe in the transformative power of a college education and how it impacts generations of families and communities.

I have a vivid memory of listening to a colleague talk about the American dream. She described with eloquence the grit and determination in which our nation – and our university – were founded.

In doing so, she used a common phrase: all one needs to do is to “pull oneself up by one’s bootstraps.” I agree. Resilience is&nbsp;definitely to&nbsp;what I attribute my success. Certainly, socioeconomic advancement is something that everyone should be able to experience, right? After all, we live in the United State of America – the land of opportunity. We hear story after story how hard work pays off.

Then, my colleague reminded us that not everyone is born with bootstraps. That’s when I realized that although my college journey did indeed include hard work and sacrifice, I was also blessed with a loving family, caring faculty, and so many more advantages. I realized I was indeed a first-generation student, coming from a modest income home, who had been born with bootstraps.

Through these columns and other presentations, I have shared stories of students who have overcome remarkable odds to get to college and graduate. Students from shattered families and even some without a family. Students who were illegally brought to this country as babies and grew up not knowing they were not citizens – knowledge that painted a very bleak future. Adult students who struggled with addictions, poverty, loss, and even prison sentences. Students without bootstraps.&nbsp;

Each extraordinary story I have shared has ended with a Fort Hays State graduate. I am so proud to be part of a university that has always been focused on making student success equitable and inclusive by expanding opportunities for students who would otherwise have few, if any, options for realizing the American Dream.

Our ability to expand access and success requires many partners. The university itself has embraced a historic commitment to underserved student populations with an exemplary learning and teaching-centered culture. Our philanthropists and community partners have demonstrated consistent generosity through scholarship programs. State and federal government funding have also helped with student access and affordability. One such program is the Pell Grant – need-based grants to low-income undergraduates designed to make college attendance an affordable reality.

Congress is currently considering doubling the maximum Pell Grant award to $13,000. Think about the value that would have at Fort Hays State University!

We believe that cost should not be a barrier to the success of our students. Our unmatched value would get even better, help more students, create more bootstraps, should Double Pell come to fruition. Look what Pell has done for Rylie and Slater.

Slater&nbsp;Heglin, from Ulysses, is a senior at Fort Hays State University and a highly respected student leader. He is majoring in business education with a concentration in talent development. Slater is also receiving certificates in leadership studies, human resource management, business management, banking, and marketing. He is involved in the FHSU Society for Human Resource Management, FHSU Foundation &amp; Alumni Association Tigers Forever, Circle K, Collegiate 4-H, and Encounter.&nbsp;

Slater shared that “coming from a single-parent home, I knew from a young age that I would be paying for college on my own.”

He is grateful for the Pell Grant and scholarships that have helped him achieve his goal of graduating debt-free. He has worked diligently to achieve a high GPA, along with his community involvement both on campus and in the community. He works three jobs and applies for many scholarships each year, but Slater acknowledged that Pell Grant has contributed greatly toward his goal of graduating from college debt-free.

“My experience as a college student at Fort Hays State University has been a catalyst in pursuing my life-long passion for servant-leadership,” he said. “Since I have received tremendous support through scholarship and Pell opportunities, I have been able to devote my time and resources to serving in over four organizations and committees on campus.&nbsp; Without the financial support I have received through Pell, I may not have had the opportunity to serve in the capacity that I have thus far.&nbsp; Obtaining my undergraduate and potential graduate degree from FHSU would show that, no matter what background an individual comes from, with hard work, grit and determination, dreams do come true. Fort Hays State University is truly investing in the leaders of today and tomorrow.”

“Higher education would not have been possible for me without the opportunity of being awarded the Pell grant. With the financial burden of college reduced, I have been able to prioritize my studies and focus my time on doing well in classes,” she said. “I am excited to pursue a degree in agriculture education, and the financial responsibilities have been one less thing to worry about because of the Pell.”

Rylie is a sophomore majoring in agriculture education, and like Slater, she will be receiving a certificate in leadership studies.

I do love how our students take such a strong interest in leadership. Rylie works on campus in the Financial Aid office. Even though she benefits from both Pell and other aid, Rylie also works two jobs off campus. By the way, a recent study by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs indicates that 93% of our students work, and 10% work both on-campus and off-campus jobs.

Doubling the Pell Grant would&nbsp;increase the pool&nbsp;of students – students like Rylie and Slater – eligible for the aid, providing more opportunities to attend college. It also would, on average, cut student debt by more than half, according to&nbsp;research&nbsp;by the Gender Equity Policy Institute.

Tiger Nation is a diverse and welcoming community, dedicated to sharing ideas and serving the greater good. On campus, online, and all over the world, we invest in close and lifelong relationships that nurture the humanity in all of us and educate the next generation of globally engaged citizen leaders.

As we continue our important work, on behalf of a young Tisa, Rylie, Slater, and so many other Tigers, I thank our philanthropists and legislators for their investment in higher education, I also join my colleagues in urging our Kansas congressional delegation to push for courageous and meaningful improvements to the Pell Grant program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>As a first-generation college student, I know on a deeply personal level the importance of the Fort Hays State University drive to offer the best value in higher education – anywhere! We believe in the transformative power of a college education and how it impacts generations of families and communities.I have a vivid memory of listening to a colleague talk about the American dream. She described with eloquence the grit and determination in which our nation – and our university – were founded.In doing so, she used a common phrase: all one needs to do is to “pull oneself up by one’s bootstraps.” I agree. Resilience is&nbsp;definitely to&nbsp;what I attribute my success. Certainly, socioeconomic advancement is something that everyone should be able to experience, right? After all, we live in the United State of America – the land of opportunity. We hear story after story how hard work pays off.Then, my colleague reminded us that not everyone is born with bootstraps. That’s when I realized that although my college journey did indeed include hard work and sacrifice, I was also blessed with a loving family, caring faculty, and so many more advantages. I realized I was indeed a first-generation student, coming from a modest income home, who had been born with bootstraps.Through these columns and other presentations, I have shared stories of students who have overcome remarkable odds to get to college and graduate. Students from shattered families and even some without a family. Students who were illegally brought to this country as babies and grew up not knowing they were not citizens – knowledge that painted a very bleak future. Adult students who struggled with addictions, poverty, loss, and even prison sentences. Students without bootstraps.&nbsp;Each extraordinary story I have shared has ended with a Fort Hays State graduate. I am so proud to be part of a university that has always been focused on making student success equitable and inclusive by expanding opportunities for students who would otherwise have few, if any, options for realizing the American Dream.Our ability to expand access and success requires many partners. The university itself has embraced a historic commitment to underserved student populations with an exemplary learning and teaching-centered culture. Our philanthropists and community partners have demonstrated consistent generosity through scholarship programs. State and federal government funding have also helped with student access and affordability. One such program is the Pell Grant – need-based grants to low-income undergraduates designed to make college attendance an affordable reality.Congress is currently considering doubling the maximum Pell Grant award to $13,000. Think about the value that would have at Fort Hays State University!We believe that cost should not be a barrier to the success of our students. Our unmatched value would get even better, help more students, create more bootstraps, should Double Pell come to fruition. Look what Pell has done for Rylie and Slater.Slater&nbsp;Heglin, from Ulysses, is a senior at Fort Hays State University and a highly respected student leader. He is majoring in business education with a concentration in talent development. Slater is also receiving certificates in leadership studies, human resource management, business management, banking, and marketing. He is involved in the FHSU Society for Human Resource Management, FHSU Foundation &amp; Alumni Association Tigers Forever, Circle K, Collegiate 4-H, and Encounter.&nbsp;Slater shared that “coming from a single-parent home, I knew from a young age that I would be paying for college on my own.”He is grateful for the Pell Grant and scholarships that have helped him achieve his goal of graduating debt-free. He has worked diligently to achieve a high GPA, along with his community involvement both on campus and in the community. He works three jobs and applies for many scholarships each year, but Slater acknowledged that Pell Grant has contributed greatly toward his goal of graduating from college debt-free.“My experience as a college student at Fort Hays State University has been a catalyst in pursuing my life-long passion for servant-leadership,” he said. “Since I have received tremendous support through scholarship and Pell opportunities, I have been able to devote my time and resources to serving in over four organizations and committees on campus.&nbsp; Without the financial support I have received through Pell, I may not have had the opportunity to serve in the capacity that I have thus far.&nbsp; Obtaining my undergraduate and potential graduate degree from FHSU would show that, no matter what background an individual comes from, with hard work, grit and determination, dreams do come true. Fort Hays State University is truly investing in the leaders of today and tomorrow.”Rylie Zeller from Little River agrees.“Higher education would not have been possible for me without the opportunity of being awarded the Pell grant. With the financial burden of college reduced, I have been able to prioritize my studies and focus my time on doing well in classes,” she said. “I am excited to pursue a degree in agriculture education, and the financial responsibilities have been one less thing to worry about because of the Pell.”Rylie is a sophomore majoring in agriculture education, and like Slater, she will be receiving a certificate in leadership studies.I do love how our students take such a strong interest in leadership. Rylie works on campus in the Financial Aid office. Even though she benefits from both Pell and other aid, Rylie also works two jobs off campus. By the way, a recent study by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs indicates that 93% of our students work, and 10% work both on-campus and off-campus jobs.Doubling the Pell Grant would&nbsp;increase the pool&nbsp;of students – students like Rylie and Slater – eligible for the aid, providing more opportunities to attend college. It also would, on average, cut student debt by more than half, according to&nbsp;research&nbsp;by the Gender Equity Policy Institute.Tiger Nation is a diverse and welcoming community, dedicated to sharing ideas and serving the greater good. On campus, online, and all over the world, we invest in close and lifelong relationships that nurture the humanity in all of us and educate the next generation of globally engaged citizen leaders.As we continue our important work, on behalf of a young Tisa, Rylie, Slater, and so many other Tigers, I thank our philanthropists and legislators for their investment in higher education, I also join my colleagues in urging our Kansas congressional delegation to push for courageous and meaningful improvements to the Pell Grant program.

MASON: Pell Grants vital to student success

EDWARDS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Thursday in Edwards County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Honda CRV driven by Nicholas Warren Tepper, 25, Stow, Massachusetts, was northbound on 70th Avenue at U.S. 50. The driver&nbsp; failed to yield to a westbound train.

The train struck the Honda and rolled it into the ditch on the north side of the railroad tracks.&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Tepper to Wesley Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP

EDWARDS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Thursday in Edwards County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Honda CRV driven by Nicholas Warren Tepper, 25, Stow, Massachusetts, was northbound on 70th Avenue at U.S. 50. The driver&nbsp; failed to yield to a westbound train.The train struck the Honda and rolled it into the ditch on the north side of the railroad tracks.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Tepper to Wesley Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP

Driver hospitalized after train strikes SUV

2nd annual Birthworker Bash scheduled this month in Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654804576475.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>

I have seen a graphic several times recently that states:

When a flashlight grows dim or quits working, Do you just throw it away? Of course not. You change the batteries.

When a person messes up or finds themselves in a dark place, Do you cast them aside? Of course not. You help them change their batteries.

Some need AA…..attention and affection; Some need AAA….attention, affection and acceptance; Some need C….Compassion; Some need D….Direction.&nbsp;

And if they still don’t seem to shine; simply sit with them quietly and share your light.

I really appreciate this message on many levels. I have experienced those times when my own light feels pretty&nbsp;dim&nbsp;and I am grateful for those&nbsp;who shared a change of perspective with me or simply sat with me in the dusk.

At other times, I recognize that dark place in others and hope that I have shared a bit of sunlight of my own with them.

One of the key components of 4-H is a sense of belonging. From club leaders to fellow 4-H members, we work to share a sense of community, kindness, and respect to one another. It doesn’t mean that we always get along or agree but that we can empathize with another person.

I also know that it is important for each of us to recharge our batteries&nbsp;in order toshare our light with others. That may mean curling up with a good book, an afternoon of laughter&nbsp;with&nbsp;friends, or time in nature. Whatever helps you to recharge, I hope that you will make time for that and help those around you to recognize the need&nbsp;and time for a recharge.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I have seen a graphic several times recently that states:When a flashlight grows dim or quits working, Do you just throw it away? Of course not. You change the batteries.When a person messes up or finds themselves in a dark place, Do you cast them aside? Of course not. You help them change their batteries.Some need AA…..attention and affection; Some need AAA….attention, affection and acceptance; Some need C….Compassion; Some need D….Direction.&nbsp;And if they still don’t seem to shine; simply sit with them quietly and share your light.I really appreciate this message on many levels. I have experienced those times when my own light feels pretty&nbsp;dim&nbsp;and I am grateful for those&nbsp;who shared a change of perspective with me or simply sat with me in the dusk.At other times, I recognize that dark place in others and hope that I have shared a bit of sunlight of my own with them.One of the key components of 4-H is a sense of belonging. From club leaders to fellow 4-H members, we work to share a sense of community, kindness, and respect to one another. It doesn’t mean that we always get along or agree but that we can empathize with another person.I also know that it is important for each of us to recharge our batteries&nbsp;in order toshare our light with others. That may mean curling up with a good book, an afternoon of laughter&nbsp;with&nbsp;friends, or time in nature. Whatever helps you to recharge, I hope that you will make time for that and help those around you to recognize the need&nbsp;and time for a recharge.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Whatever helps you recharge ...

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Drought has significantly affected wheat in southwest Kansas, but the rains may have saved some of the wheat in northwest Kansas.

"Our neighbors in southwest Kansas have been in extreme drought, I think quite a few acres of wheat down there have just been abandoned, destroyed." said Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood District K-State Extension agent for agriculture.

"Fortunately here in our area, we have had a few rains. We're probably in a little better shape than in southwest Kansas. Some of our wheat looks like it is going to do pretty good, all things considered."

The Cottonwood District covers both Hays and Great Bend.

Ellis County is listed on the Kansas Drought Monitor as being in a moderate drought as of May 31. Great Bend has areas listed in both moderate and severe drought. Other sections of northwest Kansas are listed in extreme drought.

Rains are rarely consistent even within counties, so Campbell said soil and crop conditions can vary.

Campbell said farmers won't know wheat yields for sure until harvest. The first harvest in Ellis County usually starts about June 18 t 20. By June 24 harvest in this region should be in full swing, depending on weather, he said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f5b7f548-6f23-4b41-aa53-b6efa926e4bc">Campbell said in his weekly column the dry weather has resulted in shorter wheat. </a>Machines may need to be adjusted to most efficiently separate straw from heads, he said.

Nathan Leiker, 36, a farmer with crops in Rush and Ellis counties, said the fluctuating prices and drought should make for an interesting year.

He has concerns the drought may affect his wheat but was a little more optimistic for his fall crops. He said the fall crops look very promising in light of the rain over the last couple of weeks. He is growing corn, milo and wheat.

May rain will help fall crops, but Campbell said more will be needed to help the fall crops, especially dryland corn. He said the soil moisture profile is still not good.

With the drought conditions, Campbell anticipated some farmers will forgo corn for more drought-tolerant crops, such as milo.

Drought and the war in Ukraine have forced wheat prices up. As of May 27, Kansas hard red wheat for July was about $11 per bushel. That is compared to prices as low as $4 per bushel in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654271601887.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay " />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDrought has significantly affected wheat in southwest Kansas, but the rains may have saved some of the wheat in northwest Kansas."Our neighbors in southwest Kansas have been in extreme drought, I think quite a few acres of wheat down there have just been abandoned, destroyed." said Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood District K-State Extension agent for agriculture."Fortunately here in our area, we have had a few rains. We're probably in a little better shape than in southwest Kansas. Some of our wheat looks like it is going to do pretty good, all things considered."The Cottonwood District covers both Hays and Great Bend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654272487890.png" alt="Kansas Drought Monitor map as of May 31 " />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Monitor map as of May 31 </figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County is listed on the Kansas Drought Monitor as being in a moderate drought as of May 31. Great Bend has areas listed in both moderate and severe drought. Other sections of northwest Kansas are listed in extreme drought.Rains are rarely consistent even within counties, so Campbell said soil and crop conditions can vary.Campbell said farmers won't know wheat yields for sure until harvest. The first harvest in Ellis County usually starts about June 18 t 20. By June 24 harvest in this region should be in full swing, depending on weather, he said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f5b7f548-6f23-4b41-aa53-b6efa926e4bc">Campbell said in his weekly column the dry weather has resulted in shorter wheat. </a>Machines may need to be adjusted to most efficiently separate straw from heads, he said.Nathan Leiker, 36, a farmer with crops in Rush and Ellis counties, said the fluctuating prices and drought should make for an interesting year.He has concerns the drought may affect his wheat but was a little more optimistic for his fall crops. He said the fall crops look very promising in light of the rain over the last couple of weeks. He is growing corn, milo and wheat.May rain will help fall crops, but Campbell said more will be needed to help the fall crops, especially dryland corn. He said the soil moisture profile is still not good.With the drought conditions, Campbell anticipated some farmers will forgo corn for more drought-tolerant crops, such as milo.Drought and the war in Ukraine have forced wheat prices up. As of May 27, Kansas hard red wheat for July was about $11 per bushel. That is compared to prices as low as $4 per bushel in 2020.However, Campbell said much of the profit farmers may make due to the increase in the sale price will be eaten up by inflation.Input prices for fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides and diesel, have all gone up two to two and half times compared to a year ago, he said."They do need a better price to still make some money," Campbell said.Leiker said he thought he may make a profit on wheat this year, but the increases in production costs may wipe out any profit on next year's wheat.He said the market is changing so fast that some farmers are trying to take advantage of high prices now to lock in sales. If farmers wait until the wheat is out of the fields, they may see prices drop, he said.