By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

Following criminal mediation, a Victoria resident was found
guilty Friday of charges including rape, stemming from an incident in a Hays
park in December 2019.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e010d1c57544d3fe90e82e3">Cody
Schultz was first arrested on December 20, following the report of a sexual assault
of a 14-year-old victim in Massey Park in Hays on Dec. 16.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0219c5e-6af1-4e74-a558-edac30586e8f">That arrest
would then lead Hays police to identify him as a suspect in an earlier sexual assault
case, dating to March 2014, involving a different 14-year-old.</a>

Now Schultz faces life in prison after being found guilty
during a bench trial that began immediately after the conclusion of criminal
mediation.

Bruce Gatterman, 24th Judicial District judge in Pawnee
County, served as mediator.

“Through that process, we reached a mediated agreement,”
said Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson. “The essentials of that
agreement were that we would proceed on both cases, that day, to a bench trial
on stipulated facts.”

During a bench trial, facts are presented directly to a
judge, who then issues a ruling.

Chief Judge of the 23rd Judicial District Glen Braun presided
over the trial, finding Schultz guilty on all charges, including rape, aggravated
indecent liberties with a child and electronic solicitation of a child.

Going through the mediation process and bench trial created a
quicker — and less painful — outcome, Anderson said.

“From my perspective, it was a chance to clear those cases
in an efficient manner without needing to put the victims through the stress and
time of two jury trials,” he said. “It also avoids the time and costs that
would have come with trying these two cases, which puts a substantial burden on
the court and on the citizens called for jury duty. “

But the deal also limited sentencing options, Anderson said.

“In essence, the defendant agreed to waive his right to a
jury trial and waive his ability to challenge the evidence,” he said. “In
consideration for this, I am now bound at sentencing to request that the
sentences for non-primary offenses run concurrent to the primary offense.”

But even with the concurrent sentencing, Schultz could serve the
rest of his life behind bars.

“The primary offense has a statutory punishment of (a) life
sentence without the possibility of parole for 25 years,” Anderson said. “So,
in other words, I’ve given up the ability to ask for years tacked on to the
back end of a life sentence.”

Sentencing is expected to be scheduled within the next 60
days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577132104050.png" alt="Cody Schultz" />
 <figcaption>Cody Schultz</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostFollowing criminal mediation, a Victoria resident was found
guilty Friday of charges including rape, stemming from an incident in a Hays
park in December 2019.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e010d1c57544d3fe90e82e3">Cody
Schultz was first arrested on December 20, following the report of a sexual assault
of a 14-year-old victim in Massey Park in Hays on Dec. 16.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0219c5e-6af1-4e74-a558-edac30586e8f">That arrest
would then lead Hays police to identify him as a suspect in an earlier sexual assault
case, dating to March 2014, involving a different 14-year-old.</a>Now Schultz faces life in prison after being found guilty
during a bench trial that began immediately after the conclusion of criminal
mediation.Bruce Gatterman, 24th Judicial District judge in Pawnee
County, served as mediator.“Through that process, we reached a mediated agreement,”
said Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson. “The essentials of that
agreement were that we would proceed on both cases, that day, to a bench trial
on stipulated facts.”During a bench trial, facts are presented directly to a
judge, who then issues a ruling.Chief Judge of the 23rd Judicial District Glen Braun presided
over the trial, finding Schultz guilty on all charges, including rape, aggravated
indecent liberties with a child and electronic solicitation of a child.Going through the mediation process and bench trial created a
quicker — and less painful — outcome, Anderson said.“From my perspective, it was a chance to clear those cases
in an efficient manner without needing to put the victims through the stress and
time of two jury trials,” he said. “It also avoids the time and costs that
would have come with trying these two cases, which puts a substantial burden on
the court and on the citizens called for jury duty. “But the deal also limited sentencing options, Anderson said.“In essence, the defendant agreed to waive his right to a
jury trial and waive his ability to challenge the evidence,” he said. “In
consideration for this, I am now bound at sentencing to request that the
sentences for non-primary offenses run concurrent to the primary offense.”But even with the concurrent sentencing, Schultz could serve the
rest of his life behind bars.“The primary offense has a statutory punishment of (a) life
sentence without the possibility of parole for 25 years,” Anderson said. “So,
in other words, I’ve given up the ability to ask for years tacked on to the
back end of a life sentence.”Sentencing is expected to be scheduled within the next 60
days.

Victoria man faces life in prison after child rape convictions

CASA of the High Plains has announced the hiring of a new director, Kristen Osborne.

Osborne took over the agency on Dec. 13. She replaces Tabitha Keith.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are assigned to court cases for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. CASAs serve as the voice for these vulnerable children in court.

CASA of the High Plains serves the 23rd Judicial District, which covers Ellis, Rooks, Trego and Gove counties. About 100 children are removed from their homes annually in the 23rd Judicial District.

Osborne is a Fort Hays State University graduate with a bachelor's&nbsp;of science in communication sciences and disorders, bachelor's of science in sociology, certificate in life stages and transitions, and certificate in grant proposal writing and program evaluation. 

Osborne worked at KVC for four years and the Department for Children and Families for one year with the majority of her work being with children and adults with disabilities. 

Her background is in child development, trauma-informed care, positive behavior interventions, elementary education and crisis intervention. 

She served on the CASA Board of Directors for a year before becoming the agency's executive director. She served as the board's secretary.

She is a Colorado native and has been in Kansas since 2010. "My year on the board grew my passion for the work that CASA does. I believe strongly in the power of advocacy&nbsp;and the necessity&nbsp;of advocacy for all children.," she said. ...

"I believe my passion, experience and knowledge will aid in the growth and ability for CASA to continue to serve children in need of care in our community. I am proud to be part of such an impactful resource in the 23rd Judicial District."

CASA is a nonprofit agency. It currently has positions open for new board members, non-court volunteers and those who wish to serve children as CASAs in court.

For more information, to donate, volunteer or become a CASA, call CASA at 785-628-8641 or email <a href="mailto:casahighplains@kansascasa.org">casahighplains@kansascasa.org</a>.

You can also follow CASA of the High Plains on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/district23casa">Facebook.</a>

CASA of the High PlainsCASA of the High Plains has announced the hiring of a new director, Kristen Osborne. Osborne took over the agency on Dec. 13. She replaces Tabitha Keith.Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are assigned to court cases for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. CASAs serve as the voice for these vulnerable children in court.CASA of the High Plains serves the 23rd Judicial District, which covers Ellis, Rooks, Trego and Gove counties. About 100 children are removed from their homes annually in the 23rd Judicial District.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644522425305.jpeg" alt="Kristen Osborne , CASA of the High Plains director " />
 <figcaption>Kristen Osborne , CASA of the High Plains director </figcaption>
 </figure>Osborne is a Fort Hays State University graduate with a bachelor's&nbsp;of science in communication sciences and disorders, bachelor's of science in sociology, certificate in life stages and transitions, and certificate in grant proposal writing and program evaluation. Osborne worked at KVC for four years and the Department for Children and Families for one year with the majority of her work being with children and adults with disabilities. Her background is in child development, trauma-informed care, positive behavior interventions, elementary education and crisis intervention. She served on the CASA Board of Directors for a year before becoming the agency's executive director. She served as the board's secretary. She is a Colorado native and has been in Kansas since 2010. "My year on the board grew my passion for the work that CASA does. I believe strongly in the power of advocacy&nbsp;and the necessity&nbsp;of advocacy for all children.," she said. ... "I believe my passion, experience and knowledge will aid in the growth and ability for CASA to continue to serve children in need of care in our community. I am proud to be part of such an impactful resource in the 23rd Judicial District."CASA is a nonprofit agency. It currently has positions open for new board members, non-court volunteers and those who wish to serve children as CASAs in court. For more information, to donate, volunteer or become a CASA, call CASA at 785-628-8641 or email <a href="mailto:casahighplains@kansascasa.org">casahighplains@kansascasa.org</a>.You can also follow CASA of the High Plains on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/district23casa">Facebook.</a>

CASA of High Plains hires new director

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Artist Kathy Robb has created an exhibit that highlights human connections with animals.

The centerpieces of her multi-media dioramas for her MFA exhibit "Human Nature" are porcelain paper clay. 

The exhibit is on display now through Feb. 23 at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus.

Robb explores anthropomorphism, which is the attribution of human characteristics or behaviors to non-human entities, such as animals.

Robb said she has explored her personality, as well as her childhood trauma through the exhibit. Robb said all her pieces represent her in some manner, but they come out in different ways.

A pedophile exposed himself to Robb and then chased her when she was only 6 years old.

"I felt more like a wild animal," she said. "I felt like I was trying to survive."

She developed post-traumatic stress disorder and a great distrust of other human beings. But she found solace in animals and pets.

"I observed many similarities in wild animals and my experience," she said in her artist statement. "They are continually on alert, searching for food and watching for predators. I became afraid of humans and fearful that I was being hunted.

"Using the animal hybrids allows me to tell my stories free from the entanglement that human-to-human interactions bring."

The culmination of Robb's exhibit was the production of a crocodile in a piece titled "How Long Were You There?" Robb said the crocodile is representative of the pedophile who attempted to attack her. The title refers to her curiosity of how long the predator watched her before he approached her.

The accompanying piece is titled "Catch Me, If You Can," which is a zebra that represents her as the crocodile's potential prey.

"A lot of times, you don't want to deal with the emotions and the inspiration behind them because they're tough," she said.

However, she said creating the crocodile was cathartic.

The sculptures of "Becoming a Butterfly," with its accompanying video, are symbolic of her journey to healing. She said a butterfly's metamorphosis is symbolic of her movement from someone who was fearful of human connections to a social butterfly.

"That process," she said of metamorphosis, "is reflective of rebirth, redemption and second chances."

Although Robb said she studied the anatomy of various animals to be able to portray them more realistically, she in some instances has added human touches to the creatures. 

Robb said the spikes on the back of the iguana for "It's All That" flop black and forth like a young girl flipping her hair.&nbsp; She added red human-like hair to further invoke thoughts about vanity.

In "Scorned," the choice of a human-snake hybrid is a metaphor for people who refuse to forgive others. 

"Look Dad" is a diorama that includes a ceramic fawn and full-size taxidermy male deer that is on loan from the Sternberg Museum. The fawn is looking up into a tree at an antler that has been shed.

Robb said the piece is about how the fawn is looking toward being an adult.

"This is about as young children we want to be like our parents," she said. "We want them to notice us." 

Robb is scheduled to graduate with her MFA in May. Her future plans include setting up her own studio and scaling down her ceramic sculptures to enter in national an international exhibitions and competitions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643928669044.jpeg" alt="Kathy Robb with her art diorama "Look dad." The piece is part of her MFA exhibit "Human Nature," which is on display now through Feb. 23 at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus. " />
 <figcaption>Kathy Robb with her art diorama "Look dad." The piece is part of her MFA exhibit "Human Nature," which is on display now through Feb. 23 at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostArtist Kathy Robb has created an exhibit that highlights human connections with animals.The centerpieces of her multi-media dioramas for her MFA exhibit "Human Nature" are porcelain paper clay. The exhibit is on display now through Feb. 23 at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus.Robb explores anthropomorphism, which is the attribution of human characteristics or behaviors to non-human entities, such as animals.Robb said she has explored her personality, as well as her childhood trauma through the exhibit. Robb said all her pieces represent her in some manner, but they come out in different ways.A pedophile exposed himself to Robb and then chased her when she was only 6 years old."I felt more like a wild animal," she said. "I felt like I was trying to survive." She developed post-traumatic stress disorder and a great distrust of other human beings. But she found solace in animals and pets."I observed many similarities in wild animals and my experience," she said in her artist statement. "They are continually on alert, searching for food and watching for predators. I became afraid of humans and fearful that I was being hunted."Using the animal hybrids allows me to tell my stories free from the entanglement that human-to-human interactions bring."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643929480162.jpeg" alt="Artist Kathy Robb said this crocodile represents a pedophile who exposed himself to her when she was 6. The trauma changed the course of her life. She said creating the sculpture helped her heal the emotions surrounding that event. " />
 <figcaption>Artist Kathy Robb said this crocodile represents a pedophile who exposed himself to her when she was 6. The trauma changed the course of her life. She said creating the sculpture helped her heal the emotions surrounding that event. </figcaption>
 </figure>The culmination of Robb's exhibit was the production of a crocodile in a piece titled "How Long Were You There?" Robb said the crocodile is representative of the pedophile who attempted to attack her. The title refers to her curiosity of how long the predator watched her before he approached her.The accompanying piece is titled "Catch Me, If You Can," which is a zebra that represents her as the crocodile's potential prey."A lot of times, you don't want to deal with the emotions and the inspiration behind them because they're tough," she said.However, she said creating the crocodile was cathartic. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643929088817.jpeg" alt="Artist Kathy Robb with her multi-media art piece "Becoming a Butterfly." " />
 <figcaption>Artist Kathy Robb with her multi-media art piece "Becoming a Butterfly." </figcaption>
 </figure>The sculptures of "Becoming a Butterfly," with its accompanying video, are symbolic of her journey to healing. She said a butterfly's metamorphosis is symbolic of her movement from someone who was fearful of human connections to a social butterfly."That process," she said of metamorphosis, "is reflective of rebirth, redemption and second chances."Although Robb said she studied the anatomy of various animals to be able to portray them more realistically, she in some instances has added human touches to the creatures. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643930027552.jpeg" alt=""It's All That" by artist Kathy Robb " />
 <figcaption>"It's All That" by artist Kathy Robb </figcaption>
 </figure>Robb said the spikes on the back of the iguana for "It's All That" flop black and forth like a young girl flipping her hair.&nbsp; She added red human-like hair to further invoke thoughts about vanity.In "Scorned," the choice of a human-snake hybrid is a metaphor for people who refuse to forgive others. "Look Dad" is a diorama that includes a ceramic fawn and full-size taxidermy male deer that is on loan from the Sternberg Museum. The fawn is looking up into a tree at an antler that has been shed.Robb said the piece is about how the fawn is looking toward being an adult."This is about as young children we want to be like our parents," she said. "We want them to notice us." Robb is scheduled to graduate with her MFA in May. Her future plans include setting up her own studio and scaling down her ceramic sculptures to enter in national an international exhibitions and competitions.

FHSU artist expresses 'Human Nature' through animals

A total of 1,666 students earned places on the Dean’s Honor Roll at Fort Hays State University for&nbsp;the fall 2021 semester.&nbsp;

The Dean’s Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Online students are eligible.

Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications – and, for those who have declared them, their program of study. This list does not include students who requested privacy.

Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.

The complete list of fall 2021 Dean's Honor Roll students of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtHUQH3ao2jPA-2FmJhxnmcFn473OvFEKwatsBSriEM7rYwYYg27tFDsnnRemFt3kX7lKgzk9Ntf8-2Bk11X2659ClDoS1nqd236u8A8eib-2B1zE50Fz2KuzKZhbQaOMWqhRNvBw-3D-3D8r2s_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2Bo6ZtwPmXRIyYqi-2F49khfzdcBg76FjlrTjg9RPh-2B8i4Dj514WoKf3b65AvHwatrZdOK6-2FWXoegqP-2FQkm-2FHbgWGa-2BzOuJ-2BH3U-2B0xlYUz7EdCRztJEqy1JFMK-2BNdl8VdCR5wwbGu8EVHCrkybBtHz04ESyLVMUq5n6Ta2AXX3lzW7Jq8j6QP5kR-2B0Df-2FErZTUxst-2FPboNlVKL6TE9nlHponuqcUQ5D56GoqzVABJMZdadpCnN67i5d04NUh5jO9VYliMK15OKFpBQYpKJpMIVyLxA-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2022/02/fort-hays-state-university-releases-fall-2021-deans-honor-roll</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644425118706.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsA total of 1,666 students earned places on the Dean’s Honor Roll at Fort Hays State University for&nbsp;the fall 2021 semester.&nbsp;The Dean’s Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Online students are eligible.Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications – and, for those who have declared them, their program of study. This list does not include students who requested privacy.Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.The complete list of fall 2021 Dean's Honor Roll students of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtHUQH3ao2jPA-2FmJhxnmcFn473OvFEKwatsBSriEM7rYwYYg27tFDsnnRemFt3kX7lKgzk9Ntf8-2Bk11X2659ClDoS1nqd236u8A8eib-2B1zE50Fz2KuzKZhbQaOMWqhRNvBw-3D-3D8r2s_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2Bo6ZtwPmXRIyYqi-2F49khfzdcBg76FjlrTjg9RPh-2B8i4Dj514WoKf3b65AvHwatrZdOK6-2FWXoegqP-2FQkm-2FHbgWGa-2BzOuJ-2BH3U-2B0xlYUz7EdCRztJEqy1JFMK-2BNdl8VdCR5wwbGu8EVHCrkybBtHz04ESyLVMUq5n6Ta2AXX3lzW7Jq8j6QP5kR-2B0Df-2FErZTUxst-2FPboNlVKL6TE9nlHponuqcUQ5D56GoqzVABJMZdadpCnN67i5d04NUh5jO9VYliMK15OKFpBQYpKJpMIVyLxA-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2022/02/fort-hays-state-university-releases-fall-2021-deans-honor-roll</a>

Fort Hays State releases fall 2021 Dean’s Honor Roll

THOMAS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the case of a 4-year-old Kentucky girl who has been missing for over a year have two suspects in custody, according to the Shelby County Sheriff.

Last week, extended family members contacted law enforcement in Shelby County with concerns that <a href="https://kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=AttorneyGeneral&amp;prId=1173">Serenity is in danger</a>, according to the sheriff's office.

On Sunday, the Kansas Highway Patrol arrested 26-year-old Dakota Hill and 21-year-old Catherine McKinney, the girl's mother, according to the Shelby Co. Sheriffs office.

The couple are being held in Thomas County on requested charges of Custodial Interference.&nbsp; Authorities are working to transport them from Kansas to Kentucky.

The Kentucky Attorney General's&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ky.gov/about/Office-Divisions/OVA/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">Special Victims Unit</a>&nbsp;is partnering with the Shelby and Bullitt County Sheriff's Departments, Kentucky State Police, and the U.S. Secret Service to investigate the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644455781698.png" alt="Hill-photo Thomas Co." />
 <figcaption>Hill-photo Thomas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>THOMAS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the case of a 4-year-old Kentucky girl who has been missing for over a year have two suspects in custody, according to the Shelby County Sheriff.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We continue to ask for the public’s help to locate Serenity McKinney. If you have any information, please contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at 1-502-633-2323. <a href="https://t.co/AbSdzNeCEe">pic.twitter.com/AbSdzNeCEe</a>&mdash; Attorney General Daniel Cameron (@kyoag) <a href="https://twitter.com/kyoag/status/1491414849024593920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Last week, extended family members contacted law enforcement in Shelby County with concerns that <a href="https://kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=AttorneyGeneral&amp;prId=1173">Serenity is in danger</a>, according to the sheriff's office.On Sunday, the Kansas Highway Patrol arrested 26-year-old Dakota Hill and 21-year-old Catherine McKinney, the girl's mother, according to the Shelby Co. Sheriffs office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644455891096.png" alt="McKinney-photo Thomas Co." />
 <figcaption>McKinney-photo Thomas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The couple are being held in Thomas County on requested charges of Custodial Interference.&nbsp; Authorities are working to transport them from Kansas to Kentucky.The Kentucky Attorney General's&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ky.gov/about/Office-Divisions/OVA/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">Special Victims Unit</a>&nbsp;is partnering with the Shelby and Bullitt County Sheriff's Departments, Kentucky State Police, and the U.S. Secret Service to investigate the case.

Mother, boyfriend of missing girl arrested in NW Kansas

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ad988370-e0b6-4b90-b114-204f4db4d2ae">READ MORE:&nbsp;Teacher of the Month shows love with chicken and noodles</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644338096248.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644338354407.jpeg" alt="Mark and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction Elite Realty present Kaleigh Wentworth, second -and third-grade teacher at O'Loughlin Elementary School, with the January Teacher of the Month award." />
 <figcaption>Mark and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction Elite Realty present Kaleigh Wentworth, second -and third-grade teacher at O'Loughlin Elementary School, with the January Teacher of the Month award.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ad988370-e0b6-4b90-b114-204f4db4d2ae">READ MORE:&nbsp;Teacher of the Month shows love with chicken and noodles</a>

Nations Auction Elite Realty Teacher of the Month: Kaleigh Wentworth

Fort Hays State University exists to improve lives. Every day, I witness our relentless focus on excellence and the unwavering resilience of my Fort Hays State colleagues. We work hard at supporting our students, faculty, and staff. We are responsible to one another and for one another. Together, we build a better world.

On Monday, Feb.&nbsp;7, we welcomed two new Tigers to Fort Hays State, ones who will join us in our journey to build a better world. It is my pleasure to introduce to the community the newest members of our senior leadership team: Wesley&nbsp;Wintch, vice president for Administration and Finance, and Ginger Williams, dean of Library Services.

Wesley is relocating from Valley City, North Dakota, where he and his family have lived for almost seven years. Wesley has been serving as the vice president for Business Affairs at Valley City State University. He and his wife, Natalie have three children: Daniel (a college student), Anne (a&nbsp;ninth-grader), and David (a fifth-grader).&nbsp;

Wesley likes to play basketball (although he claims he is not very good anymore – sounds like a challenge to me), piano, and guitar. He also likes dad jokes. I, too, love dad jokes and am a loyal follower of @Dadsaysjokes on Instagram.

Wesley said that he and his youngest son are excited about FHSU’s Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

“For certain, we are going to have to visit soon after we arrive,” Wesley said.&nbsp;

I know David will enjoy his visit to the museum, and I am betting he will want to enroll in some of Sternberg’s great summer camps. &nbsp;

“We are excited to move to Hays and become part of the community,” Wesley said. “It is my hope that I can join the FHSU team, learn a lot from my colleagues&nbsp;and also&nbsp;make a positive difference to the campus and larger Hays community. I was very impressed by the warmth I felt from the employees and students at FHSU and their passion for the campus.”

Wesley shared his start day with our new dean of Library Services. Ginger is relocating from Wichita, where she has served as the associate dean for Academic Engagement and Public Services for the University Libraries at Wichita State University. She was born and raised in Norman, Oklahoma.

After Ginger’s young sons finish their school year in Wichita, she be joined in Hays by her husband, Brent, and two energetic boys (second-grader Nigel and kindergartner Damian). Like Wesley, Brent likes dad jokes, basketball, and music.&nbsp;

Ginger and her husband are both musicians. Ginger plays viola and has played with professional symphonies in Georgia, Oklahoma, Florida, and Colorado. Brent has&nbsp;played all over the world with symphonies and his quartet,&nbsp;enhake,&nbsp;and has a DMA in violin. They have also played with rock bands at SXSW and the Troubadour (California). Brent is planning to start a studio to teach violin and viola lessons in Hays.

The Williams family will fit in well with their love for music and our love for the song “In Heaven There is No Beer,” as they are also homebrewers. They started brewing about 12 years ago.

Much like Wesley, Ginger said she felt welcomed at Fort Hays State from the start.

“I also was really impressed during my interview by how much the Fort Hays State folks loved the university,” she said. “I'm excited to get to know the library's needs and help shape its transformation during the upcoming renovation.”

I am very excited to welcome our newest senior leaders, Wesley and Ginger, and their families, to Fort Hays State University as well as to our wonderful Ellis&nbsp;County neighborhood. I know they will love our close-knit community, where people smile, and their welcome is genuine and inclusive.

<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>Fort Hays State University exists to improve lives. Every day, I witness our relentless focus on excellence and the unwavering resilience of my Fort Hays State colleagues. We work hard at supporting our students, faculty, and staff. We are responsible to one another and for one another. Together, we build a better world.On Monday, Feb.&nbsp;7, we welcomed two new Tigers to Fort Hays State, ones who will join us in our journey to build a better world. It is my pleasure to introduce to the community the newest members of our senior leadership team: Wesley&nbsp;Wintch, vice president for Administration and Finance, and Ginger Williams, dean of Library Services.Wesley is relocating from Valley City, North Dakota, where he and his family have lived for almost seven years. Wesley has been serving as the vice president for Business Affairs at Valley City State University. He and his wife, Natalie have three children: Daniel (a college student), Anne (a&nbsp;ninth-grader), and David (a fifth-grader).&nbsp;Wesley likes to play basketball (although he claims he is not very good anymore – sounds like a challenge to me), piano, and guitar. He also likes dad jokes. I, too, love dad jokes and am a loyal follower of @Dadsaysjokes on Instagram.Wesley said that he and his youngest son are excited about FHSU’s Sternberg Museum of Natural History.“For certain, we are going to have to visit soon after we arrive,” Wesley said.&nbsp;I know David will enjoy his visit to the museum, and I am betting he will want to enroll in some of Sternberg’s great summer camps. &nbsp;“We are excited to move to Hays and become part of the community,” Wesley said. “It is my hope that I can join the FHSU team, learn a lot from my colleagues&nbsp;and also&nbsp;make a positive difference to the campus and larger Hays community. I was very impressed by the warmth I felt from the employees and students at FHSU and their passion for the campus.”Wesley shared his start day with our new dean of Library Services. Ginger is relocating from Wichita, where she has served as the associate dean for Academic Engagement and Public Services for the University Libraries at Wichita State University. She was born and raised in Norman, Oklahoma.After Ginger’s young sons finish their school year in Wichita, she be joined in Hays by her husband, Brent, and two energetic boys (second-grader Nigel and kindergartner Damian). Like Wesley, Brent likes dad jokes, basketball, and music.&nbsp;Ginger and her husband are both musicians. Ginger plays viola and has played with professional symphonies in Georgia, Oklahoma, Florida, and Colorado. Brent has&nbsp;played all over the world with symphonies and his quartet,&nbsp;enhake,&nbsp;and has a DMA in violin. They have also played with rock bands at SXSW and the Troubadour (California). Brent is planning to start a studio to teach violin and viola lessons in Hays.The Williams family will fit in well with their love for music and our love for the song “In Heaven There is No Beer,” as they are also homebrewers. They started brewing about 12 years ago.Much like Wesley, Ginger said she felt welcomed at Fort Hays State from the start.“I also was really impressed during my interview by how much the Fort Hays State folks loved the university,” she said. “I'm excited to get to know the library's needs and help shape its transformation during the upcoming renovation.”I am very excited to welcome our newest senior leaders, Wesley and Ginger, and their families, to Fort Hays State University as well as to our wonderful Ellis&nbsp;County neighborhood. I know they will love our close-knit community, where people smile, and their welcome is genuine and inclusive.

MASON: Welcoming two new senior leaders to Fort Hays State

<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/2022/2/1644434098267.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

I have shared before that resilience is the ability to cope with and recover from life’s difficulties. It is not something that naturally occurs but it is a skill that can be learned. As a parent, it is something that we should work on with our children at a very nearly age.

Children learn from watching adults, and watching parents cope with everyday stress in a calm and flexible manner will help them learn to respond in a positive way. Remember that children are also closely watching the negative way adults handle life’s challenges.

The following information on building resilience in children is from Michigan State University Extension.&nbsp; “The most important thing to build resiliency in a child’s life is a strong, secure attachment with a caring adult. It can be a parent, grandparent or other caregiver, as long as that relationship is reliable, loving and trustworthy. A child will thrive in many areas of development when they feel loved, understood and accepted, and building strong resiliency skills is no different. It is through these secure relationships that they can learn to regulate their feelings and thoughts”&nbsp;

MSU offers the following suggestions for building caring relationships.

We know that all children will face challenges and it is important that we help them develop skills so they can handle those obstacles in life.

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I have shared before that resilience is the ability to cope with and recover from life’s difficulties. It is not something that naturally occurs but it is a skill that can be learned. As a parent, it is something that we should work on with our children at a very nearly age.Children learn from watching adults, and watching parents cope with everyday stress in a calm and flexible manner will help them learn to respond in a positive way. Remember that children are also closely watching the negative way adults handle life’s challenges.The following information on building resilience in children is from Michigan State University Extension.&nbsp; “The most important thing to build resiliency in a child’s life is a strong, secure attachment with a caring adult. It can be a parent, grandparent or other caregiver, as long as that relationship is reliable, loving and trustworthy. A child will thrive in many areas of development when they feel loved, understood and accepted, and building strong resiliency skills is no different. It is through these secure relationships that they can learn to regulate their feelings and thoughts”&nbsp;MSU offers the following suggestions for building caring relationships.<ul>
 <li>Play. This is a great way to connect with kids of all ages</li><li>Comfort. This helps children feel they are not alone with their big feelings.&nbsp;</li><li>Listen. This simple technique shows children that what they’re saying about their feelings is important.</li><li>Show Empathy. This is seeing an issue or problem from another’s point of view. You, as the listener, do not have to agree. Just let the child know you understand how they feel. This makes it easier for them to try to understand others.&nbsp;</li><li>Identify feelings. “You look frustrated/angry/mad/happy/sad.” This will help them socially identify how they are feeling and be able to use their words versus body parts to settle disputes, but also helps them realize other people have feelings too.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="http://www.msue.anr.msu.edu/news/screen_time_recommendations_for_young_children">Reduce TV time</a>. Children under 2 years old should not be allowed any screen time. Children 2-4 years should watch less than 1 hour per day. Instead, read or go to the park.</li><li>Read or tell stories. Books are a great way to read about characters that show compassion, kindness and understanding for others.</li><li>Don’t rush to their rescue. Let them attempt to solve problems on their own when the outcome isn’t big and life-altering. When they are younger, let them have opportunities to problem-solve and make good choices, such as negotiating a turn on the swing or falling off their bike. As they get older, the decisions they make will involve driving and relationships that could result in more harsh consequences than when they were younger.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>We know that all children will face challenges and it is important that we help them develop skills so they can handle those obstacles in life.	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Resiliency in children

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

Four Colorado residents were arrested in Hays on Thursday after
they were reported for shoplifting at a local store.

At around 5:30 p.m., employees in the loss prevention department at
Walmart, 4301 Vine, reported they had identified several individuals who had been shoplifting
in the store, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.

Arriving officers located two suspects in a vehicle,
while two others had left the area.

One of the suspects was then located walking in the area and
fled on foot from officers, but complied and was detained without further incident
after the officer threatened the use of a Taser.

The suspect was identified as Devante R. Gonzales, 27, who was
arrested on suspicion of fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer.

The other suspects were identified as Connie N. Medina, 27,
Alexis H. Free, 26, and Rene T. Valdivia, 53. All four were arrested on
suspicion of drug possession with the intent to distribute.

“When the officers arrived on scene, they were believed to
have been involved in shoplifting,” Scheibler said. “The vehicle they were in
was pulling a trailer believed to have been full of stolen property.”

While the property could not be easily determined to have
been stolen, suspicion of other shoplifting activity led to a search of the
vehicle, he said.

During the search, marijuana and methamphetamine were
located, according to reports.

Scheibler also said while the four were arrested and remain
detained in the Ellis County jail, “they are all considered innocent until
proven guilty in a court of law.”

By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostFour Colorado residents were arrested in Hays on Thursday after
they were reported for shoplifting at a local store.At around 5:30 p.m., employees in the loss prevention department at
Walmart, 4301 Vine, reported they had identified several individuals who had been shoplifting
in the store, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.Arriving officers located two suspects in a vehicle,
while two others had left the area.One of the suspects was then located walking in the area and
fled on foot from officers, but complied and was detained without further incident
after the officer threatened the use of a Taser.The suspect was identified as Devante R. Gonzales, 27, who was
arrested on suspicion of fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer.The other suspects were identified as Connie N. Medina, 27,
Alexis H. Free, 26, and Rene T. Valdivia, 53. All four were arrested on
suspicion of drug possession with the intent to distribute.“When the officers arrived on scene, they were believed to
have been involved in shoplifting,” Scheibler said. “The vehicle they were in
was pulling a trailer believed to have been full of stolen property.”While the property could not be easily determined to have
been stolen, suspicion of other shoplifting activity led to a search of the
vehicle, he said.During the search, marijuana and methamphetamine were
located, according to reports.Scheibler also said while the four were arrested and remain
detained in the Ellis County jail, “they are all considered innocent until
proven guilty in a court of law.”

Four arrested in Hays for alleged drug offenses after shoplifting report

The 2022 Indian Call candidates pictured from left to right are:

Ashton Hernandez, Grace McCord, Connor Jacobs, Lauryn Miller, Jace Linenberger, Jocelyn Rigler, Nate Brooks, Jersey Johnson, Noah Weimer and Caroline Robben&nbsp;

The Indian Call crowning will be held on Feb. 18 during half time of the boys basketball game. The dance will then follow on Feb. 19.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644415838730.png" alt="2022 Indian Call candidates" />
 <figcaption>2022 Indian Call candidates</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2022 Indian Call candidates pictured from left to right are:Ashton Hernandez, Grace McCord, Connor Jacobs, Lauryn Miller, Jace Linenberger, Jocelyn Rigler, Nate Brooks, Jersey Johnson, Noah Weimer and Caroline Robben&nbsp;The Indian Call crowning will be held on Feb. 18 during half time of the boys basketball game. The dance will then follow on Feb. 19.&nbsp;

Hays High announces 2022 Indian Call candidates

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Housing. Childcare. Condition of Hays schools. Low unemployment rate.

These are among major concerns the local business community has recently identified as issues holding back healthy growth in Ellis County.

Local residents had the opportunity Monday night to chime in with their thoughts during an <a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/">Imagine Ellis County</a>&nbsp;(IEC)&nbsp;town hall meeting at the Hays Hilton Garden Inn.

"There are no bad ideas tonight," Betty Johnson, facilitator and Dane G. Hansen Foundation director of strategic doing, said to the crowd of more than 80 people.

The audience included a mix of local business owners, students, retirees, city and county employees, educators, and representatives of the religious community and non-profit sector.&nbsp;

"We have lots of nice <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ImagineEllisCounty/videos/595807445033557">videos</a> about how great it is to live in Ellis County, but nobody knows about it," said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.&nbsp;

IEG has received grants from the Hansen Foundation, the Schmidt Foundation and the Heartland Community Foundation to produce the videos in partnership with Eagle Communications/Eagle Creative of Hays.

A marketing campaign for Ellis County will include creating a website, utilizing geofencing, and using various social media platforms along with traditional advertising billboards.

Towns along the eastern slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains will be targeted, according to Williams. It's an urban area from which some families have begun moving, looking for smaller and safer communities in which to raise their families.

Safe, clean, and quiet communities, along with good law enforcement, was often an answer to questions posed to the participants by Johnson.

Broken into small groups, they discussed the things Ellis County is doing right and why they live in Ellis County.

The positive comments included community pride, strong work ethic, support of small businesses, great parks, variety of educational institutions, big city amenities with a small town feel, and good medical care.

Then it was time to talk about the not so great things in Ellis County and what's stopping Ellis County from being more successful.

Answers and suggestions reached into the far-flung corners of the county, including better connections of the small Ellis County towns to the county seat of Hays, more diverse retail and restaurant options, retention and recruitment of young people, as well as retirees from the region. 

"They shop and pay their bills," quipped a representative of one group.

Transportation between the towns and into Hays was seen as a needed improvement. Getting people out of Ellis County when they need to travel is also a little more complicated now. 

"We recently lost our Greyhound bus service," noted another group speaker.&nbsp;

Other areas listed as needs were activities and events for middle school students, a better senior center, and a large community center.

Roadblocks included affordable land, fear of change, lack of racial diversity, a shrinking oil and gas economy as the nation turns toward green energy options, mentoring of new leaders, transfer of wealth, and future funding for all of the ideas and suggestions.&nbsp;

Finally, the groups gazed into the future and talked about what they see in Ellis County 20 years from now; the year is 2042.

"More roundabouts," promised one group, drawing laughter and applause from the others. Another group envisioned the traffic roundabouts in Hays would become "hoverways."

Also in the near future Fort Hays State University will have the largest student enrollment among Kansas colleges, thanks to increased online learning and its virtual college. Mental health services will be provided in schools. The R-9 Ranch in Edwards County owned by Hays and Russell will be providing abundant water to the immediate area.&nbsp;

"We've got some great momentum going here and we want to continue this. ... This is invaluable input," Williams said at the end of the meeting.

After compilation, Monday's feedback will be publicly available on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ImagineEllisCounty">Imagine Ellis County Facebook page</a> and future website.&nbsp;

The FHSU Docking Institute of Public Affairs has been engaged to conduct a community survey this summer to give additional guidance of what people are looking for and what Ellis County needs to be doing to attract them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Offering remote work and learning opportunities through an expanded internet infrastructure is one key, according to Williams.

He talked about a recent interview he watched with Karin Kimbrough, chief economist for Linkedin, the world's largest job search website.&nbsp;

"She gave some statistics that pre-pandemic 1 in 67 jobs on LinkedIn was for remote workers. Today it's 1 in 7. And people who apply for LinkedIn jobs are two and half times more likely to apply for a remote position rather than one where they have to work on site.&nbsp;

"That's an opportunity for our community because we've got tremendous bandwidth, and we're got a great place to live," Williams said.

Similar town hall meetings will be held in Victoria and Ellis.&nbsp;

"We'd like to think we're the best kept secret out there. And if we get more people to understand what we have to offer here, we can get more people to come and live here."&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Editor's note: Hays Post is owned by Eagle Communiations.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644356857039.jpeg" alt="Monday's Imagine Ellis County town hall meeting discussed ways to increase healthy growth of the county.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Monday's Imagine Ellis County town hall meeting discussed ways to increase healthy growth of the county.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHousing. Childcare. Condition of Hays schools. Low unemployment rate.These are among major concerns the local business community has recently identified as issues holding back healthy growth in Ellis County.Local residents had the opportunity Monday night to chime in with their thoughts during an <a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/">Imagine Ellis County</a>&nbsp;(IEC)&nbsp;town hall meeting at the Hays Hilton Garden Inn."There are no bad ideas tonight," Betty Johnson, facilitator and Dane G. Hansen Foundation director of strategic doing, said to the crowd of more than 80 people.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644380941582.jpeg" alt="Betty Johnson (standing), Hansen Foundation, facilitates strategic doing at Monday's Imagine Ellis County town hall meeting in Hays.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Betty Johnson (standing), Hansen Foundation, facilitates strategic doing at Monday's Imagine Ellis County town hall meeting in Hays.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The audience included a mix of local business owners, students, retirees, city and county employees, educators, and representatives of the religious community and non-profit sector.&nbsp;"We have lots of nice <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ImagineEllisCounty/videos/595807445033557">videos</a> about how great it is to live in Ellis County, but nobody knows about it," said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.&nbsp;IEG has received grants from the Hansen Foundation, the Schmidt Foundation and the Heartland Community Foundation to produce the videos in partnership with Eagle Communications/Eagle Creative of Hays.A marketing campaign for Ellis County will include creating a website, utilizing geofencing, and using various social media platforms along with traditional advertising billboards.Towns along the eastern slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains will be targeted, according to Williams. It's an urban area from which some families have begun moving, looking for smaller and safer communities in which to raise their families.Safe, clean, and quiet communities, along with good law enforcement, was often an answer to questions posed to the participants by Johnson.Broken into small groups, they discussed the things Ellis County is doing right and why they live in Ellis County.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XuY_RcuzFag"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The positive comments included community pride, strong work ethic, support of small businesses, great parks, variety of educational institutions, big city amenities with a small town feel, and good medical care.Then it was time to talk about the not so great things in Ellis County and what's stopping Ellis County from being more successful.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644356823534.jpeg" alt="Holding up a group's idea sheet to be read outloud and shared with other groups during Imagine Ellis County's town hall meeting. More than 80 residents attended." />
 <figcaption>Holding up a group's idea sheet to be read outloud and shared with other groups during Imagine Ellis County's town hall meeting. More than 80 residents attended.</figcaption>
 </figure>Answers and suggestions reached into the far-flung corners of the county, including better connections of the small Ellis County towns to the county seat of Hays, more diverse retail and restaurant options, retention and recruitment of young people, as well as retirees from the region. "They shop and pay their bills," quipped a representative of one group.Transportation between the towns and into Hays was seen as a needed improvement. Getting people out of Ellis County when they need to travel is also a little more complicated now. "We recently lost our Greyhound bus service," noted another group speaker.&nbsp;Other areas listed as needs were activities and events for middle school students, a better senior center, and a large community center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644381112383.jpeg" alt="Former Ellis County Commissioner, Dustin Roths, owner of Diamond R Jewelry in downtown Hays, presents his group's ideas for improving Ellis County." />
 <figcaption>Former Ellis County Commissioner, Dustin Roths, owner of Diamond R Jewelry in downtown Hays, presents his group's ideas for improving Ellis County.</figcaption>
 </figure>Roadblocks included affordable land, fear of change, lack of racial diversity, a shrinking oil and gas economy as the nation turns toward green energy options, mentoring of new leaders, transfer of wealth, and future funding for all of the ideas and suggestions.&nbsp;Finally, the groups gazed into the future and talked about what they see in Ellis County 20 years from now; the year is 2042."More roundabouts," promised one group, drawing laughter and applause from the others. Another group envisioned the traffic roundabouts in Hays would become "hoverways."Also in the near future Fort Hays State University will have the largest student enrollment among Kansas colleges, thanks to increased online learning and its virtual college. Mental health services will be provided in schools. The R-9 Ranch in Edwards County owned by Hays and Russell will be providing abundant water to the immediate area.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644381583050.jpeg" alt="Michael Berges, Hays vice-mayor (checkered shirt) discusses cooperation between the city and Ellis County as Neal Younger (blue shirt), county commissioner, takes notes during Image Ellis County." />
 <figcaption>Michael Berges, Hays vice-mayor (checkered shirt) discusses cooperation between the city and Ellis County as Neal Younger (blue shirt), county commissioner, takes notes during Image Ellis County.</figcaption>
 </figure>So what's next?"We've got some great momentum going here and we want to continue this. ... This is invaluable input," Williams said at the end of the meeting.After compilation, Monday's feedback will be publicly available on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ImagineEllisCounty">Imagine Ellis County Facebook page</a> and future website.&nbsp;The FHSU Docking Institute of Public Affairs has been engaged to conduct a community survey this summer to give additional guidance of what people are looking for and what Ellis County needs to be doing to attract them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Offering remote work and learning opportunities through an expanded internet infrastructure is one key, according to Williams.He talked about a recent interview he watched with Karin Kimbrough, chief economist for Linkedin, the world's largest job search website.&nbsp;"She gave some statistics that pre-pandemic 1 in 67 jobs on LinkedIn was for remote workers. Today it's 1 in 7. And people who apply for LinkedIn jobs are two and half times more likely to apply for a remote position rather than one where they have to work on site.&nbsp;"That's an opportunity for our community because we've got tremendous bandwidth, and we're got a great place to live," Williams said.Similar town hall meetings will be held in Victoria and Ellis.&nbsp;"We'd like to think we're the best kept secret out there. And if we get more people to understand what we have to offer here, we can get more people to come and live here."&nbsp;&nbsp;(Editor's note: Hays Post is owned by Eagle Communiations.)

🎥 Town hall participants 'Imagine Ellis County' in 2042

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported an outbreak of COVID-19 at the Norton Correctional Facility continues to be the largest active coronavirus cluster in the state, although numbers are falling.

KDHE on Wednesday reported 375 active COVID clusters in the state, accounting for 9,116 cases, 100 hospitalizations and 86 deaths.&nbsp;

There were 68 COVID cases reported at the Norton prison in the last 14 days, the first time in three weeks the cluster of cases has been in the double digits.

Other area clusters identified by KDHE were:

• Ellsworth Correctional Facility, 27 cases • Larned State Hospital, 30 cases • Ascension Living Via Christi Village, Hays, 10 cases

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644430111159.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported an outbreak of COVID-19 at the Norton Correctional Facility continues to be the largest active coronavirus cluster in the state, although numbers are falling.KDHE on Wednesday reported 375 active COVID clusters in the state, accounting for 9,116 cases, 100 hospitalizations and 86 deaths.&nbsp;There were 68 COVID cases reported at the Norton prison in the last 14 days, the first time in three weeks the cluster of cases has been in the double digits.Other area clusters identified by KDHE were:• Ellsworth Correctional Facility, 27 cases • Larned State Hospital, 30 cases • Ascension Living Via Christi Village, Hays, 10 cases

Norton prison COVID cluster still state's largest; 3 other area clusters

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 39 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

As of Wednesday morning, there were 25 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including seven active cases and 18 recovering cases.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3619e873-913c-44d6-b0ba-b71a3e8dfced">RELATED: Norton prison COVID cluster still the state's largest</a>

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>

The Kansas Hospital Organization reported Wednesday that 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (5 and older) are fully vaccinated. The county-by-county vaccination rate report will no longer be published by KDHE.

Since reporting began, there have been 6,989 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644429886933.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 39 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.As of Wednesday morning, there were 25 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including seven active cases and 18 recovering cases.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3619e873-913c-44d6-b0ba-b71a3e8dfced">RELATED: Norton prison COVID cluster still the state's largest</a><a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>The Kansas Hospital Organization reported Wednesday that 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (5 and older) are fully vaccinated. The county-by-county vaccination rate report will no longer be published by KDHE.Since reporting began, there have been 6,989 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644429926074.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644429619227.png" alt="Kansas Hospital Association" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Hospital Association</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 39 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

Following a three-year varsity career, Hays High senior Roy Moroni will continue his football journey at the same stadium he played home games at. The Indians' starting running back will play for Fort Hays State University. A signing ceremony was held Wednesday, one week following the official decision on national signing day for college football.

Moroni ran for 1,106 yards during his senior season while averaging 7.6 yards per carry. He also scored 17 rushing touchdowns and crossed the goal line on two more touchdowns on receptions.

He ended his career with 1,944 yards and a per carry average of 6.4 yards to go along with 24 total touchdowns.

Moroni was part of an offense that set a school record in total yards and rushing yards along with total points scored.

He holds the fourth best mark for rushing yards in a season, third for season points scored, and fourth in career rushing yards.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostFollowing a three-year varsity career, Hays High senior Roy Moroni will continue his football journey at the same stadium he played home games at. The Indians' starting running back will play for Fort Hays State University. A signing ceremony was held Wednesday, one week following the official decision on national signing day for college football.Roy Moroni<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1212811909&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/roy-moroni" title="Roy Moroni" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Roy Moroni</a></div></div>Moroni ran for 1,106 yards during his senior season while averaging 7.6 yards per carry. He also scored 17 rushing touchdowns and crossed the goal line on two more touchdowns on receptions.He ended his career with 1,944 yards and a per carry average of 6.4 yards to go along with 24 total touchdowns.Coach Tony Crough<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1212812191&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tony-crough-about-roy-moroni" title="Tony Crough About Roy Moroni" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tony Crough About Roy Moroni</a></div></div>Moroni was part of an offense that set a school record in total yards and rushing yards along with total points scored.He holds the fourth best mark for rushing yards in a season, third for season points scored, and fourth in career rushing yards.

🏈🎧 HHS' Moroni headed to Fort Hays State

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president
and CEO Sarah Wasinger talk about internships with the chamber's Fort Hays
State University, Dane G. Hansen Foundation intern Avary Huff.

Internships
can be valuable for both businesses and students. Hayes chamber president and
CEO Sarah Wasinger along with their Fort Hays State University, Dane G. Hansen,
intern Avary Huff stopped by to talk to us a little bit about internships and
Avery's experience that the Hays Chamber on this episode of the post podcast.

Oh, you
had a pretty unique place that you came from before you join our chamber. Do
you want to talk a little bit about your experience last semester before we
jump into some other things?

Sure,
Sara. So last semester, I was actually studying abroad in Spain. Wow. I was
there from the end of August to the middle of January. And I really got to
learn about tourism in Spain since that is my major. I was really putting it
into that real word world perspective, and also working on my Spanish. So had a
blast over there.

I
mentioned it's hard to not have a good time hanging out in Europe.

Yeah,
absolutely. A lot of good fish. I wouldn't call the fried sardines. Good fish.
But we talked a little bit about that. Like, what was the weirdest thing she
ate the definitely the best food over there.

I think
you may have been going to the wrong restaurants, just fried sardines. But
that's very cool. That's very cool. Um, so yeah, you're over here at the
chamber. Now, what does an intern do at the chamber.

So I've
only been there for a couple of weeks now. But I've been helping with all the
events that have been going on, and just really getting out into the community,
whatever's on the calendar for the day, I'm there to help and figure out how I
can be best assistance in the office as well.

So for
in another thing that we did, because it's kind of the beginning of the year.
So obviously, our board financial reports are approved a month delayed. So
Avery even got to experience creating the month by month budget report with me
this last week to Yes, we did was very exciting.

Um, it
wasn't the most exciting event I've worked on. But it was definitely a learning
experience.

But we
tried to give Avery the opportunity to really witness the gamut of what goes on
at the chamber. So obviously, yes, events are a very big part of what we do to
feature businesses, but really giving her some ability. The big part of her job
will actually start here very soon, because we're going to start preparing for
our golf tournament, which is our biggest fundraiser of the year. And that
might be a good segue to the question that we were just talking about in the
car. What was one of the things that surprised you the most about your last
couple of weeks at the chamber?

Um,
there are two things. So the first thing that surprised me is that most of the
Chamber's budget does come from dues. So based on dues from members joining,
that's how we're able to host events throughout the year, and then also the
fast paced environment that happens at the chamber. I don't think I didn't
realize that I wouldn't just be working in an office all day. You're really
getting out into the community. There's always something going on 24/7

Absolutely
it sir about that all the time. You guys are always always out in the community
almost every day. There's an event that you guys are at, or asmuch running
around us. 

I do you
think I'd be you know, like a slice for life goals right there. So I just need
to go see one of my members to workout.

And
we've got some new, we've got some new workout options coming up from what I
understand as well do we do I'm sure that I'm well, I'm not sure. But I'm
imagine that those new ones are going to be Chamber members as well. We have a
meeting with them. Okay. Well, now I've jinxed it.

We'll
talk about that when it happens. There you go, there you go. But one of the
things that is very important to you that I think a lot of people don't, maybe
they have some trepidation for being in a business that has a intern, it
doesn't really take a lot of energy, the biggest thing is to make sure you're
incorporating them into the day to day, give them a variety of ways that they
can be involved. And I think so many times people are like, well, maybe I just
don't have time to bring that person along. But Avery, I think has some
information to share just based on her experience so far, but this is not your
first internship.

So why
do you recommend internships to students and businesses.

Um, for
students, I would definitely recommend internships because it's a lot different
from the knowledge you're learning in the classroom, you actually get to go out
and apply it and see how it might not be exactly the same as what you have
learned from your professors. So you really just get that real world
application of those topics. And you get to learn all those skills to make you
more marketable as a student looking for jobs once you graduate. So that's
really exciting for this internship opportunity. And then as for the business
side of things, I would recommend internships for businesses, because not only
are you investing in members of your community, and growing their skill sets,
but you're also getting another extra helping hand so they'll help increase
your employee productivity throughout the day. And then you really just get to
have a fresh new perspective on things because interns are usually students, so
they're exposed to different things. They're not in the workforce. So they have
different outlooks on things and can definitely bring new ideas to your
business.

Yeah,
and you know what, over the years, I've had some different roles where I've
worked with interns, and one of the things that just to speak to that a little
bit, one of the things I love is when they bring in like the latest in, because
you're in the classroom, you're hearing the latest in academic research in your
field, whatever the field might be, and you're now able to bring that directly
to a business owner. I mean, that's a resource that they probably don't have
time for otherwise.

Exactly.
Exactly. It's a fresh perspective. And it's a real asset, because they are
learning that information. It's fresh on top of their mind, and they're able to
apply it at your business.

<div><iframe title="Internship programs benefit area business; education" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=e6vbi-11a0018-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president
and CEO Sarah Wasinger talk about internships with the chamber's Fort Hays
State University, Dane G. Hansen Foundation intern Avary Huff.<h2>Transcript</h2>James Bell&nbsp;
Internships
can be valuable for both businesses and students. Hayes chamber president and
CEO Sarah Wasinger along with their Fort Hays State University, Dane G. Hansen,
intern Avary Huff stopped by to talk to us a little bit about internships and
Avery's experience that the Hays Chamber on this episode of the post podcast.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
Oh, you
had a pretty unique place that you came from before you join our chamber. Do
you want to talk a little bit about your experience last semester before we
jump into some other things?Avary Huff&nbsp;
Sure,
Sara. So last semester, I was actually studying abroad in Spain. Wow. I was
there from the end of August to the middle of January. And I really got to
learn about tourism in Spain since that is my major. I was really putting it
into that real word world perspective, and also working on my Spanish. So had a
blast over there.James Bell&nbsp;
I
mentioned it's hard to not have a good time hanging out in Europe.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
Yeah,
absolutely. A lot of good fish. I wouldn't call the fried sardines. Good fish.
But we talked a little bit about that. Like, what was the weirdest thing she
ate the definitely the best food over there.James Bell&nbsp;
I think
you may have been going to the wrong restaurants, just fried sardines. But
that's very cool. That's very cool. Um, so yeah, you're over here at the
chamber. Now, what does an intern do at the chamber.Avary Huff&nbsp;
So I've
only been there for a couple of weeks now. But I've been helping with all the
events that have been going on, and just really getting out into the community,
whatever's on the calendar for the day, I'm there to help and figure out how I
can be best assistance in the office as well.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
So for
in another thing that we did, because it's kind of the beginning of the year.
So obviously, our board financial reports are approved a month delayed. So
Avery even got to experience creating the month by month budget report with me
this last week to Yes, we did was very exciting.Avary Huff&nbsp;
Um, it
wasn't the most exciting event I've worked on. But it was definitely a learning
experience.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
But we
tried to give Avery the opportunity to really witness the gamut of what goes on
at the chamber. So obviously, yes, events are a very big part of what we do to
feature businesses, but really giving her some ability. The big part of her job
will actually start here very soon, because we're going to start preparing for
our golf tournament, which is our biggest fundraiser of the year. And that
might be a good segue to the question that we were just talking about in the
car. What was one of the things that surprised you the most about your last
couple of weeks at the chamber?Avary Huff&nbsp;
Um,
there are two things. So the first thing that surprised me is that most of the
Chamber's budget does come from dues. So based on dues from members joining,
that's how we're able to host events throughout the year, and then also the
fast paced environment that happens at the chamber. I don't think I didn't
realize that I wouldn't just be working in an office all day. You're really
getting out into the community. There's always something going on 24/7James Bell&nbsp;
Absolutely
it sir about that all the time. You guys are always always out in the community
almost every day. There's an event that you guys are at, or asmuch running
around us. Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
I do you
think I'd be you know, like a slice for life goals right there. So I just need
to go see one of my members to workout.James Bell&nbsp;
And
we've got some new, we've got some new workout options coming up from what I
understand as well do we do I'm sure that I'm well, I'm not sure. But I'm
imagine that those new ones are going to be Chamber members as well. We have a
meeting with them. Okay. Well, now I've jinxed it.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
We'll
talk about that when it happens. There you go, there you go. But one of the
things that is very important to you that I think a lot of people don't, maybe
they have some trepidation for being in a business that has a intern, it
doesn't really take a lot of energy, the biggest thing is to make sure you're
incorporating them into the day to day, give them a variety of ways that they
can be involved. And I think so many times people are like, well, maybe I just
don't have time to bring that person along. But Avery, I think has some
information to share just based on her experience so far, but this is not your
first internship.James Bell&nbsp;
Is that
right? Avary Huff&nbsp;
No, it's
my third. Okay. Wow.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
So why
do you recommend internships to students and businesses.Avary Huff&nbsp;
Um, for
students, I would definitely recommend internships because it's a lot different
from the knowledge you're learning in the classroom, you actually get to go out
and apply it and see how it might not be exactly the same as what you have
learned from your professors. So you really just get that real world
application of those topics. And you get to learn all those skills to make you
more marketable as a student looking for jobs once you graduate. So that's
really exciting for this internship opportunity. And then as for the business
side of things, I would recommend internships for businesses, because not only
are you investing in members of your community, and growing their skill sets,
but you're also getting another extra helping hand so they'll help increase
your employee productivity throughout the day. And then you really just get to
have a fresh new perspective on things because interns are usually students, so
they're exposed to different things. They're not in the workforce. So they have
different outlooks on things and can definitely bring new ideas to your
business.James Bell&nbsp;
Yeah,
and you know what, over the years, I've had some different roles where I've
worked with interns, and one of the things that just to speak to that a little
bit, one of the things I love is when they bring in like the latest in, because
you're in the classroom, you're hearing the latest in academic research in your
field, whatever the field might be, and you're now able to bring that directly
to a business owner. I mean, that's a resource that they probably don't have
time for otherwise.Avary Huff&nbsp;
Exactly.
Exactly. It's a fresh perspective. And it's a real asset, because they are
learning that information. It's fresh on top of their mind, and they're able to
apply it at your business.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
And
specifically speaking about the Dane G. Hanson program, I think that a lot of
people forget how affordable it is for the business. It's a $500 investment for
about 240 hours. Yeah, 240 hours. So I mean, if you do the math, I mean, I
think James is trying to do the math.James Bell&nbsp;
I came
up with a four nine or something, I couldn't do the math, talk either. But no,
that that is that's an incredible amount of help and support, you can get $400
That's a pretty good price. And you know, it's a win win. I you know, I mean, I
love the Win Win Win situations. And this sounds like exactly.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
And I do
have to speak to the fact that when we interview, so each business gets the
opportunity to interview, you know, anywhere between four to five students. And
each of the students that we interviewed as a chamber staff, we were just blown
away from so I mean, you're talking about, you know, the cream of the crop when
you're looking at the Dean Johansen interns. So you're getting someone who's
already essentially pre vetted by Fort Hays, they know the caliber of the
students that are putting into that program. And so it is, you know, kind of
like hiring that hidden gem, because you're getting that opportunity to have
that fresh perspective that Avery was talking about. But also just, you know,
some extra hands on the ground. Yeah. And what better way to give back to a
student who might want to find a job in Hays because they love it so much, you
know, so it, it can help us build our workforce.James Bell&nbsp;
Exactly.
You know, that I was gonna say that was one of the topics that was discussed
last night was keep retaining people here. And what a great way to do it. You
know, I imagine like if we got somebody here at Eagle radio, and they they
enjoy the position, and then a position is open, like, if that's an obvious
choice, and then we know we're not losing them to Denver or Kansas City or
salon or wherever.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
Absolutely.James Bell&nbsp;
Very
cool. Well, you know, I just I'm curious, is it just college kids that come
through Fort Hays for this program, they don't look for any the high school. So
it's it's a imagine you have to be at least a second year college kid to be
able to apply? Apply them.Avary Huff&nbsp;
Right.
So the internships are open to all the Fort Hays students. I'm not sure if you're
able to do it your first year, maybe the second semester of your first year.
But other than that they're open for all the students to apply for.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
And we
do also have a haste High School intern Reese liker that we have at the Chamber
currently right now too. So I know there are high school opportunities for
students. And I think those are usually reserved for seniors as well, since
they have a more flexible schedule. But um, yeah, definitely. If you're a
business and you have questions, we would be happy to answer those for you. And
I know I'm Career Services at Fort Hays State University, obviously would
welcome phone calls to learn more about the program.James Bell&nbsp;
Very
cool. Very cool. Well, before we run out of time, sir, we probably should talk
about the events going on this week, because you've got a number of things
going on. Again, as usual,Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
We do.
So, our HYP Advisory Council retreat will be this week, Thursday at 5:15pm at
the Welcome Center. And Friday, we are very excited. Speaking of Fort Hays
State University, our chamber chat will be the tiger gear on Friday, that will
be at 9am. At Professor sandwich shop and more, we do have it under good
authority that they're going to be drawing for some sweet Tiger gear that day.
So you might want to wear your Tiger Gear to that one, as well as just maybe be
ready to get a new cool new shirt or something.James Bell&nbsp;
I love
Tiger gear.&nbsp; I need you not to&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
We bleed
black and gold. Exactly. It's I mean, it might be scary in the medical
professions. You know,James Bell&nbsp;
There's
such a vital part of the community and what a cool program to help that, you
know, connection.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
Absolutely.
And we would be remiss to not remind a few people that chamber checks are
always on sale at the chamber. And Valentine's Day is just around the corner.
So if you don't know the right gift to get your sweetheart, they can be spent
at nearly 500 locations in Ellis counties. So it's not a bad idea. Yeah,James Bell&nbsp;
There's
some beautiful spots downtown. Well, there'd be the spots all over Ross County.
But yeah,Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
restaurantsJames Bell&nbsp;
When I'm
let them pick the gift that they want. That's right, I found that that is usually
just the easiest thing to do.Sarah Wasinger&nbsp;
Stay out
of the doghouse by a chamber check. or multiple again, another win win win.
That's my man. And then the only other thing we really wanted to share was
congratulations to our USD 489 School Board for their approval of the bond
issue to be put on the ballot in May, our chamber is actually going to be
hosting two different opportunities this month specifically, to give folks the
opportunity to learn more about what will be included in the bond issue. So
superintendent Ron Wilson will actually speak to our HIV connection lunch group
on February 15, at noon at thirsties. HIV members if you have not signed up for
that lunch yet, please do so today if possible, and then February membership
lunch will be February 25 at Rose Garden banquet hall and catering and that was
sponsored by Golden Belt Bank and he'll be speaking at noon as well. So
definitely make sure that you come ready to learn and he'll be able to ask
questions or answer questions.