BUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS as welcomed&nbsp;Betsy&nbsp;Schwien&nbsp;to its team&nbsp;as&nbsp;the&nbsp;new general manager. Schwien&nbsp;will&nbsp;oversee&nbsp;all&nbsp;operations&nbsp;of SHPBS.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Betsy brings great leadership and enthusiasm to Smoky Hills PBS,” said Joe Robben, chairman of the Smoky Hills PBS board of directors. &nbsp;“Myself, as well as the&nbsp;other&nbsp;board members, feel that Betsy will move&nbsp;us forward and provide&nbsp;for a successful future. &nbsp;We are&nbsp;thrilled&nbsp;to work with Betsy and her team and excited for the future of Smoky Hills PBS.”

Schwien is originally from the Kansas City area but has lived in Russell for the last 20-plus years with her&nbsp;husband, Justin, and son, Jase. She is a Fort Hays State University alumni, receiving both her bachelor's and&nbsp;master's&nbsp;degrees from FHSU.&nbsp;Schwien has a long history of working with the public and has a true passion for service to her community.&nbsp; She joins the Smoky Hills PBS team with a background in health care administration as well as public service.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

“I am both honored and blessed to be working for such an incredible organization,” Schwien said. “I’m&nbsp;grateful for the opportunity&nbsp;to lead this great team where each one of them bring so many new and exciting ideas. To be surrounded by such an amazing group of people, which I now call my SHPBS&nbsp;family, is a great honor. &nbsp;I am excited for&nbsp;our future, stay tuned for more to come from Smoky Hills PBS.!”

Schwien&nbsp;joins Smoky Hills PBS&nbsp;as they&nbsp;get ready to launch another March Pledge Drive. &nbsp;Donor support during these pledge drives allows SHPBS to provide quality and educational programming to its viewers in central and western Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644507571873.jpeg" alt="Betsy Schwien" />
 <figcaption>Betsy Schwien</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseBUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS as welcomed&nbsp;Betsy&nbsp;Schwien&nbsp;to its team&nbsp;as&nbsp;the&nbsp;new general manager. Schwien&nbsp;will&nbsp;oversee&nbsp;all&nbsp;operations&nbsp;of SHPBS.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Betsy brings great leadership and enthusiasm to Smoky Hills PBS,” said Joe Robben, chairman of the Smoky Hills PBS board of directors. &nbsp;“Myself, as well as the&nbsp;other&nbsp;board members, feel that Betsy will move&nbsp;us forward and provide&nbsp;for a successful future. &nbsp;We are&nbsp;thrilled&nbsp;to work with Betsy and her team and excited for the future of Smoky Hills PBS.”Schwien is originally from the Kansas City area but has lived in Russell for the last 20-plus years with her&nbsp;husband, Justin, and son, Jase. She is a Fort Hays State University alumni, receiving both her bachelor's and&nbsp;master's&nbsp;degrees from FHSU.&nbsp;Schwien has a long history of working with the public and has a true passion for service to her community.&nbsp; She joins the Smoky Hills PBS team with a background in health care administration as well as public service.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;“I am both honored and blessed to be working for such an incredible organization,” Schwien said. “I’m&nbsp;grateful for the opportunity&nbsp;to lead this great team where each one of them bring so many new and exciting ideas. To be surrounded by such an amazing group of people, which I now call my SHPBS&nbsp;family, is a great honor. &nbsp;I am excited for&nbsp;our future, stay tuned for more to come from Smoky Hills PBS.!”Schwien&nbsp;joins Smoky Hills PBS&nbsp;as they&nbsp;get ready to launch another March Pledge Drive. &nbsp;Donor support during these pledge drives allows SHPBS to provide quality and educational programming to its viewers in central and western Kansas.&nbsp;

Fort Hays State alum named general manager at Smoky Hills PBS

Multi-musician entertainer Gary Todd is known as The New Odyssey Guy.&nbsp;Sponsored by Western Plains Arts Association, Todd will be taking the stage of the&nbsp;Wallace County High School Auditorium, 521 North Main Street, Sharon Springs,&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday, Feb. 20 at 2 p.m. MST (3 p.m. CST).

Admission is by WPAA season ticket, or adults $10, students $5 at the door. In addition to business sponsors and other generous&nbsp;foundations, this program&nbsp;receives&nbsp;major&nbsp;grant funding from the Dane G. Hansen&nbsp;Foundation, Logan, Kan.

Prior to launching a solo career featuring&nbsp;Todd&nbsp;playing ten different instruments, he was one of three guys from the greater Chicago area&nbsp;who&nbsp;played a combined number of&nbsp;30 instruments from&nbsp;late 1977 through 2018 known as New Odyssey.

Breaking into the entertainment industry at age 2,&nbsp;he&nbsp;began performing as an acrobat in his family act “The Tumbling Todd’s.” By the age of 13 he had already headed out on his own with his first single act, entertaining the crowds with&nbsp;music,&nbsp;comedy and&nbsp;tumbling. A few years later at&nbsp;the age of 17, Gary joined&nbsp;a&nbsp;midwestpub and&nbsp;night club&nbsp;band “Odyssey."

He regularly plays: trumpet, bass trumpet, pocket trumpet,&nbsp;banjo,&nbsp;electric guitar,&nbsp;soprano sax,&nbsp;alto sax, baritone,&nbsp;flugelhorn, and&nbsp;the electronic&nbsp;drums.

“Originally I picked&nbsp;up the drums to join my brother’s band&nbsp;‘Wally and the Whalers’<a></a>,” Todd said. "My drums have evolved from a traditional acoustic set to the current electronic drums in use today. ... The drums have always been a mainstay of my identity as a musician.”

Visit the&nbsp;Website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thenewodysseyguy.com/">www.thenewodysseyguy.com</a>&nbsp;for pictures, videos and more.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ev5H7Wd349I"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WPAAMulti-musician entertainer Gary Todd is known as The New Odyssey Guy.&nbsp;Sponsored by Western Plains Arts Association, Todd will be taking the stage of the&nbsp;Wallace County High School Auditorium, 521 North Main Street, Sharon Springs,&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday, Feb. 20 at 2 p.m. MST (3 p.m. CST).Admission is by WPAA season ticket, or adults $10, students $5 at the door. In addition to business sponsors and other generous&nbsp;foundations, this program&nbsp;receives&nbsp;major&nbsp;grant funding from the Dane G. Hansen&nbsp;Foundation, Logan, Kan.Prior to launching a solo career featuring&nbsp;Todd&nbsp;playing ten different instruments, he was one of three guys from the greater Chicago area&nbsp;who&nbsp;played a combined number of&nbsp;30 instruments from&nbsp;late 1977 through 2018 known as New Odyssey.Breaking into the entertainment industry at age 2,&nbsp;he&nbsp;began performing as an acrobat in his family act “The Tumbling Todd’s.” By the age of 13 he had already headed out on his own with his first single act, entertaining the crowds with&nbsp;music,&nbsp;comedy and&nbsp;tumbling. A few years later at&nbsp;the age of 17, Gary joined&nbsp;a&nbsp;midwestpub and&nbsp;night club&nbsp;band “Odyssey."He regularly plays: trumpet, bass trumpet, pocket trumpet,&nbsp;banjo,&nbsp;electric guitar,&nbsp;soprano sax,&nbsp;alto sax, baritone,&nbsp;flugelhorn, and&nbsp;the electronic&nbsp;drums.“Originally I picked&nbsp;up the drums to join my brother’s band&nbsp;‘Wally and the Whalers’<a></a>,” Todd said. "My drums have evolved from a traditional acoustic set to the current electronic drums in use today. ... The drums have always been a mainstay of my identity as a musician.”Visit the&nbsp;Website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thenewodysseyguy.com/">www.thenewodysseyguy.com</a>&nbsp;for pictures, videos and more.

🎥 'The New Odyssey Guy' set to take the stage in Sharon Springs

<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/2022/2/1644604768904.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 recently had a great opportunity to attend a cattle conference. As part of the conference, we listened to a variety of speakers with keynotes by boxer George Foreman and football player Joe Theismann!&nbsp;

In both of their speeches, there was a common theme that applies to many of us.&nbsp;

George touched on Principles – knowing who you are and the foundation that provides; Fight – keep working toward goals every day; and Convictions – knowing what you believe in and being willing to work toward that,&nbsp;even when it is hard.

In Joe’s address, he highlighted the following:

Goals – set personal, professional, spiritual, and financial&nbsp;goals&nbsp;because without a goal, how do you know where you are headed or when you are making progress.

Attitude – “When is the last time you congratulated yourself?”&nbsp;and focused on working to keep a positive attitude every day, no matter the circumstances.

Teamwork – make sure that everyone on the team feels valued regardless of the size of their role.

Motivation – Keeping an eye on goals and attitude will help but at the end of the day, each of us must choose to be motivated to be better, to learn something new, to improve on a skill.

Both men have seen incredible success and have dealt with some pretty tough circumstances. They continue to use the lessons they have learned to be better people and I certainly respect that!

Everyone deals with their own set of circumstances and difficulties - some of our own making and some out of our control – but each of us can set goals, adjust our attitude, acknowledge those around us, and stay focused on our path to learn, grow, and improve every day.

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&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>I recently had a great opportunity to attend a cattle conference. As part of the conference, we listened to a variety of speakers with keynotes by boxer George Foreman and football player Joe Theismann!&nbsp;In both of their speeches, there was a common theme that applies to many of us.&nbsp;George touched on Principles – knowing who you are and the foundation that provides; Fight – keep working toward goals every day; and Convictions – knowing what you believe in and being willing to work toward that,&nbsp;even when it is hard.In Joe’s address, he highlighted the following:Goals – set personal, professional, spiritual, and financial&nbsp;goals&nbsp;because without a goal, how do you know where you are headed or when you are making progress.Attitude – “When is the last time you congratulated yourself?”&nbsp;and focused on working to keep a positive attitude every day, no matter the circumstances.Teamwork – make sure that everyone on the team feels valued regardless of the size of their role.Motivation – Keeping an eye on goals and attitude will help but at the end of the day, each of us must choose to be motivated to be better, to learn something new, to improve on a skill.Both men have seen incredible success and have dealt with some pretty tough circumstances. They continue to use the lessons they have learned to be better people and I certainly respect that!Everyone deals with their own set of circumstances and difficulties - some of our own making and some out of our control – but each of us can set goals, adjust our attitude, acknowledge those around us, and stay focused on our path to learn, grow, and improve every day.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: Grace, kindness and goals

TOPEKA February 11, 2022

On Tuesday, February 8, the House debated and passed House Substitute for Senate Bill 347. This bill is called the “Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion” Program, also referred to as APEX. This bill was needed to be passed in order for a major company to move into the state of Kansas that could produce 4,000 jobs.

This bill, which has been somewhat controversial, would provide tax incentives to qualified firms who agree to invest at least $1 billion in the state of Kansas within a five-year period. Please keep in mind that bill is a new economic development program and not a deal for one company.

This APEX bill will generate projects that have the potential to provide billions of dollars in ancillary economic benefits for the state. The House version requires a measured and prudent reduction of corporate taxes for all of Kansas corporations when an APEX project comes to Kansas. The reduction is a 0.5% one time for each such project.

This bill also promotes qualified suppliers where they can receive incentives as well. It also creates a $10 million matching fund for qualified firms to provide relocation incentives and help with expenses for employees who will move to Kansas and make Kansas their primary residence.

I voted “yes,” and the Senate debated and concurred on the bill that passed the House late Wednesday afternoon. Now that this legislation is law an offer will now be reaching out to the company.

The House Appropriations Committee was busy this week with budgets and bill hearings. The budgets that we heard were Kansas Lottery, Kansas Racing and Gaming, the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts, Office of the State Bank Commissioner, State Historical Society, Kansas Bureau of Investigations and many more. We also conducted two bill hearings this week. House Bill 2591 is a technical clean up bill that is needed for a bill that passed last year regarding the combination of funds for abandoned oil and gas wells in Kansas. We then worked HB 2591 on Thursday and passed it out of committee for a debate on the House floor. The second is House Bill 2541, which credits the docket and other fees to the state general fund instead of the Judicial Branch docket fee fund.

Aside from the APEX bill, there were other bills that we debated and passed on the House floor this week. Here are the details of those bills:

The House debated House Concurrent Resolution 5023 which states that the state of Kansas denounces instances of price gouging and market manipulation involving natural gas. It also states that it supports state efforts by the Office of the Attorney General and federal efforts by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to investigate increases in natural gas prices during the extreme cold weather event of February 2021.

We also debated House Bill 2473 which amends current law governing the composition of the Board of Trustees of the Douglas County Law Library.

The last bill that we debated this week is House Bill 2490 which makes changes to the Kansas Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings program. The state of Kansas must make changes to our current ABLE program to comply with federal rules that were put into place in November 2020. Due to these rule changes, we needed to alter our current program or we could find the Kansas program noncompliant and no longer a federally qualified program.

I voted in favor of the resolution and both bills.

After the Senate passed the override from the veto by Governor Kelly regarding the Congressional maps, the House then took the override to a vote. Since the new map has no population deviation, meaning that all four districts have the exact same population numbers, I voted to override the veto.

Anytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at www.kslegislature.org.

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes:

* Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities:Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens,Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center,Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa,Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center(part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver(part), Cedron, Elkhorn(part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner,Center,Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th District" />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th District</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA February 11, 2022APEX BillOn Tuesday, February 8, the House debated and passed House Substitute for Senate Bill 347. This bill is called the “Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion” Program, also referred to as APEX. This bill was needed to be passed in order for a major company to move into the state of Kansas that could produce 4,000 jobs.This bill, which has been somewhat controversial, would provide tax incentives to qualified firms who agree to invest at least $1 billion in the state of Kansas within a five-year period. Please keep in mind that bill is a new economic development program and not a deal for one company.This APEX bill will generate projects that have the potential to provide billions of dollars in ancillary economic benefits for the state. The House version requires a measured and prudent reduction of corporate taxes for all of Kansas corporations when an APEX project comes to Kansas. The reduction is a 0.5% one time for each such project.This bill also promotes qualified suppliers where they can receive incentives as well. It also creates a $10 million matching fund for qualified firms to provide relocation incentives and help with expenses for employees who will move to Kansas and make Kansas their primary residence.I voted “yes,” and the Senate debated and concurred on the bill that passed the House late Wednesday afternoon. Now that this legislation is law an offer will now be reaching out to the company.Appropriations CommitteeThe House Appropriations Committee was busy this week with budgets and bill hearings. The budgets that we heard were Kansas Lottery, Kansas Racing and Gaming, the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts, Office of the State Bank Commissioner, State Historical Society, Kansas Bureau of Investigations and many more. We also conducted two bill hearings this week. House Bill 2591 is a technical clean up bill that is needed for a bill that passed last year regarding the combination of funds for abandoned oil and gas wells in Kansas. We then worked HB 2591 on Thursday and passed it out of committee for a debate on the House floor. The second is House Bill 2541, which credits the docket and other fees to the state general fund instead of the Judicial Branch docket fee fund.Bill Activity in the HouseAside from the APEX bill, there were other bills that we debated and passed on the House floor this week. Here are the details of those bills:The House debated House Concurrent Resolution 5023 which states that the state of Kansas denounces instances of price gouging and market manipulation involving natural gas. It also states that it supports state efforts by the Office of the Attorney General and federal efforts by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to investigate increases in natural gas prices during the extreme cold weather event of February 2021.We also debated House Bill 2473 which amends current law governing the composition of the Board of Trustees of the Douglas County Law Library.The last bill that we debated this week is House Bill 2490 which makes changes to the Kansas Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings program. The state of Kansas must make changes to our current ABLE program to comply with federal rules that were put into place in November 2020. Due to these rule changes, we needed to alter our current program or we could find the Kansas program noncompliant and no longer a federally qualified program.I voted in favor of the resolution and both bills.After the Senate passed the override from the veto by Governor Kelly regarding the Congressional maps, the House then took the override to a vote. Since the new map has no population deviation, meaning that all four districts have the exact same population numbers, I voted to override the veto.Contact InformationAnytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at www.kslegislature.org.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes: * Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities:Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens,Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center,Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa,Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center(part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver(part), Cedron, Elkhorn(part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner,Center,Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Feb. 11

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;announced&nbsp;40&nbsp;rural Kansas&nbsp;communities will receive&nbsp;Community Development Block Grants totaling more than&nbsp;$17.6 million to help support&nbsp;critical community&nbsp;development projects.&nbsp;

“These grants will help our communities improve public safety, revitalize vital infrastructure and maximize economic opportunity for our Kansas families,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“It’s further proof that investments like this are critical to positively impact lives of Kansans living in rural parts of the state.”

The awards&nbsp;are administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and granted&nbsp;from&nbsp;the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Small Cities&nbsp;CDBG program.&nbsp;Eligible CDBG public&nbsp;improvement&nbsp;projects help fund water&nbsp;and&nbsp;wastewater&nbsp;projects, housing rehabilitation and other community facilities&nbsp;and services.&nbsp;

“Community Development Block Grants strike at the core of what we all want to achieve for Kansas: strong communities, healthy families and a high quality of life,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary&nbsp;David Toland said.&nbsp;“The investments announced today will create better living conditions for Kansans, which in turn drives new economic opportunities and promotes new growth across our state.”

City of Lucas, $600,000: New water tower and water supply improvements&nbsp;&nbsp;

City of Oberlin, $466,598: Sanitary sewer treatment facility improvements&nbsp;

City of Russell, $360,300: Street improvements&nbsp;

City of Saint Francis, $600,000: Street improvements&nbsp;

City of Timken, $170,000: Water system improvements

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;announced&nbsp;40&nbsp;rural Kansas&nbsp;communities will receive&nbsp;Community Development Block Grants totaling more than&nbsp;$17.6 million to help support&nbsp;critical community&nbsp;development projects.&nbsp;“These grants will help our communities improve public safety, revitalize vital infrastructure and maximize economic opportunity for our Kansas families,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“It’s further proof that investments like this are critical to positively impact lives of Kansans living in rural parts of the state.”The awards&nbsp;are administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and granted&nbsp;from&nbsp;the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Small Cities&nbsp;CDBG program.&nbsp;Eligible CDBG public&nbsp;improvement&nbsp;projects help fund water&nbsp;and&nbsp;wastewater&nbsp;projects, housing rehabilitation and other community facilities&nbsp;and services.&nbsp;“Community Development Block Grants strike at the core of what we all want to achieve for Kansas: strong communities, healthy families and a high quality of life,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary&nbsp;David Toland said.&nbsp;“The investments announced today will create better living conditions for Kansans, which in turn drives new economic opportunities and promotes new growth across our state.”Area projects include:City of Lucas, $600,000: New water tower and water supply improvements&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Oberlin, $466,598: Sanitary sewer treatment facility improvements&nbsp;City of Russell, $360,300: Street improvements&nbsp;City of Saint Francis, $600,000: Street improvements&nbsp;City of Timken, $170,000: Water system improvements

Area projects included in recent round of infrastructure grants

On Friday, the COVID-19 data dashboard will not be updated due to system maintenance, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has announced. 

The next scheduled update is expected Monday.

On Friday, the COVID-19 data dashboard will not be updated due to system maintenance, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has announced. The next scheduled update is expected Monday.

KDHE: No COVID case report Friday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas president and CEO Matt All.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: BCBS of Kansas president and CEO Matt All" 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=i6yhw-11a35c2-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas president and CEO Matt All.

🎤Forward Ever: BCBS of Kansas president and CEO Matt All

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

The Hays Arts Council’s Spring Art Walk might still be a
couple of months away, but work has already begun on the annual downtown Hays
event.

The Art Walk will follow a similar format to last year — a
day-long Saturday event — and will once again feature Kansas’ oldest juried fine
art competitive exhibition, the Smokey Hill Art Competition and Exhibition.

“I know that sounds like a long way down the road, but in case
there any artists out there that are thinking ... it's not too early to start thinking about where you might like to, set up
a little bit of art and have a little fun with us that day,"&nbsp;said Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder. 

RELATED<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4ac457f3-8ea4-4d8c-a0f3-d1051c5a0579">:
Annual creative writing contest showcases area youth’s literary talents</a>&nbsp;

She added she can help business interested in participating connect artists.

“I won't need information until well into April,” Meder
said, “but it's not too early to start thinking about it.”

Similar to last year, the Art Walk will feature a Friday night
concert before the Saturday exhibitions.

“It's going to be amazing the night before, on the 29th,
on the Friday, like we did last year, where we kicked off the Art Walk with a
Friday night event, which was the jazz concert.”

The Fort Hays State University jazz bands will again
perform, and this year she said will be even more special than a typical
performance.

“This will be the last year that those jazz bands will be
under the direction of Brad Dawson,” Meder said. “He's still going to be there
at the university and other capacities and stuff, but he's handing over the
reins of the jazz band.”

Inside the Hays Arts Council’s gallery, the Smokey Hill Art Competition
and Exhibition will anchor the Art Walk.

“The call for entries for the Smoky Hill exhibition just
went out, and that is the old state's oldest juried Fine Art competitive exhibition
open to any artist currently living in Kansas,” Meder said.

The exhibition is open to any artists currently living in
Kansas and is open to any original art in any medium.

“This is the 53rd annual,” Meder said, and we “have an
amazing juror, who's an artist John Hofmeister, an artist and author. ... For
years, he was leading the pack for the preservation of the Garden of
Eden. … His undergrad degree was in painting, he's an author and he's a KU
professor emeritus. So great judge, we've got lined up.”

<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/smoky-hill">Artists looking
to sign up can find an online entry form on the Hays Arts Council website,
haysartscouncil.org.</a>

Visitors to the website will also find information about
upcoming youth programming as well, including the Famous Figures contest
information and winning entries from last year, and the Creative Writing contest.

RELATED<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a8d093bb-8c94-4338-bf61-803b94e15c05">: Area fifth-graders once again called to showcase history</a>&nbsp;

“Those videos are all still there on our website, so you can
get an idea of what the kids are kind of coming up with,” Meder said. "People
can still go on our website and watch the 'Quiet America' film. So, there's so much
on our website. … <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hays-Arts-Council-137869202896983/">But also I
really encourage people to follow us on Facebook, because we'll do a lot of
shout-outs and reminders and and quickie updates on things.</a>"

While looking ahead, Meder said there is still time to view
the Five State Photography exhibition in the Hays Arts Center.

“The fabulous Five State Photography Exhibition does continue
through February the 11th,” Meder said. “We opened it as people
probably remember as the anchor of Winter Art Walk already back there in early
December. But we do let this one run long, partly due to the fact that it's an
amazing show with 150 pieces, it's worth seeing.”

“There's 115 fabulous photographs in that show, all 8-by-10, from
photographers all across Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado.
And people really have enjoyed the show. I've been very pleased with the
response.”

The Hays Arts Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday
through Friday and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Lots of stuff going on this spring, in the schools, in the
community and in the gallery Art Walks, so it's going to be a pretty exciting next
few months,” Meder said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619658010171.jpeg" alt="Entry from the 2021 Spring Art Walk" />
 <figcaption>Entry from the 2021 Spring Art Walk</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Planning underway for Hays Arts Council’s Spring Art Walk" 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=98725-119eac5-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>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostThe Hays Arts Council’s Spring Art Walk might still be a
couple of months away, but work has already begun on the annual downtown Hays
event.The Art Walk will follow a similar format to last year — a
day-long Saturday event — and will once again feature Kansas’ oldest juried fine
art competitive exhibition, the Smokey Hill Art Competition and Exhibition.The event will be Saturday, April 30.“I know that sounds like a long way down the road, but in case
there any artists out there that are thinking ... it's not too early to start thinking about where you might like to, set up
a little bit of art and have a little fun with us that day,"&nbsp;said Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder. RELATED<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4ac457f3-8ea4-4d8c-a0f3-d1051c5a0579">:
Annual creative writing contest showcases area youth’s literary talents</a>&nbsp;She added she can help business interested in participating connect artists.“I won't need information until well into April,” Meder
said, “but it's not too early to start thinking about it.”Similar to last year, the Art Walk will feature a Friday night
concert before the Saturday exhibitions.“It's going to be amazing the night before, on the 29th,
on the Friday, like we did last year, where we kicked off the Art Walk with a
Friday night event, which was the jazz concert.”The Fort Hays State University jazz bands will again
perform, and this year she said will be even more special than a typical
performance.“This will be the last year that those jazz bands will be
under the direction of Brad Dawson,” Meder said. “He's still going to be there
at the university and other capacities and stuff, but he's handing over the
reins of the jazz band.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619658112701.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Inside the Hays Arts Council’s gallery, the Smokey Hill Art Competition
and Exhibition will anchor the Art Walk.“The call for entries for the Smoky Hill exhibition just
went out, and that is the old state's oldest juried Fine Art competitive exhibition
open to any artist currently living in Kansas,” Meder said.The exhibition is open to any artists currently living in
Kansas and is open to any original art in any medium.“This is the 53rd annual,” Meder said, and we “have an
amazing juror, who's an artist John Hofmeister, an artist and author. ... For
years, he was leading the pack for the preservation of the Garden of
Eden. … His undergrad degree was in painting, he's an author and he's a KU
professor emeritus. So great judge, we've got lined up.”<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/smoky-hill">Artists looking
to sign up can find an online entry form on the Hays Arts Council website,
haysartscouncil.org.</a>Visitors to the website will also find information about
upcoming youth programming as well, including the Famous Figures contest
information and winning entries from last year, and the Creative Writing contest.RELATED<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a8d093bb-8c94-4338-bf61-803b94e15c05">: Area fifth-graders once again called to showcase history</a>&nbsp;“Those videos are all still there on our website, so you can
get an idea of what the kids are kind of coming up with,” Meder said. "People
can still go on our website and watch the 'Quiet America' film. So, there's so much
on our website. … <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hays-Arts-Council-137869202896983/">But also I
really encourage people to follow us on Facebook, because we'll do a lot of
shout-outs and reminders and and quickie updates on things.</a>"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486781857.jpeg" alt="Entries from the 2021 Five State Photography Competition, will remain on display until Feb. 11 at the Hays Arts Center." />
 <figcaption>Entries from the 2021 Five State Photography Competition, will remain on display until Feb. 11 at the Hays Arts Center.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Last day</h2>While looking ahead, Meder said there is still time to view
the Five State Photography exhibition in the Hays Arts Center.“The fabulous Five State Photography Exhibition does continue
through February the 11th,” Meder said. “We opened it as people
probably remember as the anchor of Winter Art Walk already back there in early
December. But we do let this one run long, partly due to the fact that it's an
amazing show with 150 pieces, it's worth seeing.”“There's 115 fabulous photographs in that show, all 8-by-10, from
photographers all across Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado.
And people really have enjoyed the show. I've been very pleased with the
response.”The Hays Arts Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday
through Friday and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.“Lots of stuff going on this spring, in the schools, in the
community and in the gallery Art Walks, so it's going to be a pretty exciting next
few months,” Meder said.

🎙Planning underway for Hays Arts Council’s Spring Art Walk

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A unanimous vote by Hays city commissioners Thursday night drew applause from the audience after agreement to a one-half cent retail sales tax ballot for assisting USD 489 in repaying a school bond issue, should it also be approved by voters during the May 10 special election.

School board members voted unanimously Monday to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2a94d25d-ba77-49d6-9665-2651a7667965">send the $1.43 million bond issue to district patrons</a>.

The ballot question is all ultimately about the need for space, Ron Wilson, told the&nbsp; commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Overall, we're up roughly 300 students the past 15 years in already small schools back in 2006," Wilson said. "It's created issues for us."

Student enrollment is currently over capacity in each of the district's six schools, except for Lincoln Elementary.&nbsp;

City commissioners each said they personally support passage of the school bond issue and the associated 0.5 percent sales tax.

They discussed the connection between good schools and the future growth of Hays.&nbsp;

Vice-Mayor Michael Berges talked about the impact on his three sons who are all enrolled in USD 489. The oldest boy is 10 years old.

"When this bond would be paid off in 30 years - it could be earlier - he'll be 40 years old.&nbsp;

"I believe when Ron Wilson says that initial generation of students that gets to go through new schools gets drawn in and believes in their community that they're being supported and want to maintain a stake in our community," Berges said.&nbsp;

In other business, commissioners approved a low bid of $73, 577 from West Coast Netting, Kingman, Arizona, for a replacement of the foul ball safety net at Larks Park.&nbsp;

They also approved low bids for 2022 street maintenance projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This year’s program includes seal coat, polypatch, reconstruction of two concrete alleys, reconstruction of 22nd St. from Allen to Vine, bridge deck patching, and sidewalk construction.&nbsp;

The total of the low bid contracts bis&nbsp; $705,000 to be funded out of the special highway fund.&nbsp;

Photo caption corrected 7:40 a.m. Friday to correct school bond total cost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644547483983.jpeg" alt="Audience members applaud the vote of Hays city commissioners who unanimously agreed to allow a one-half cent sales tax special ballot for assisting USD 489 in repaying a $143 million school bond issue, should it also be approved by voters." />
 <figcaption>Audience members applaud the vote of Hays city commissioners who unanimously agreed to allow a one-half cent sales tax special ballot for assisting USD 489 in repaying a $143 million school bond issue, should it also be approved by voters.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA unanimous vote by Hays city commissioners Thursday night drew applause from the audience after agreement to a one-half cent retail sales tax ballot for assisting USD 489 in repaying a school bond issue, should it also be approved by voters during the May 10 special election.School board members voted unanimously Monday to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2a94d25d-ba77-49d6-9665-2651a7667965">send the $1.43 million bond issue to district patrons</a>.The ballot question is all ultimately about the need for space, Ron Wilson, told the&nbsp; commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Overall, we're up roughly 300 students the past 15 years in already small schools back in 2006," Wilson said. "It's created issues for us."Student enrollment is currently over capacity in each of the district's six schools, except for Lincoln Elementary.&nbsp;City commissioners each said they personally support passage of the school bond issue and the associated 0.5 percent sales tax.They discussed the connection between good schools and the future growth of Hays.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n-7eABSeRYA"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Vice-Mayor Michael Berges talked about the impact on his three sons who are all enrolled in USD 489. The oldest boy is 10 years old."When this bond would be paid off in 30 years - it could be earlier - he'll be 40 years old.&nbsp;"I believe when Ron Wilson says that initial generation of students that gets to go through new schools gets drawn in and believes in their community that they're being supported and want to maintain a stake in our community," Berges said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644566781765.jpeg" alt="(Kansas Dept. of Revenue)" />
 <figcaption>(Kansas Dept. of Revenue)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644567071359.jpeg" alt="(Kansas Dept. of Revenue)" />
 <figcaption>(Kansas Dept. of Revenue)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644566001398.jpeg" alt="The 0.5 percent sales tax would be implemented Oct. 1 if voters approve both the $1.43 million bond issue for USD 489 and the associated city retail sales tax in a May 10 special election.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The 0.5 percent sales tax would be implemented Oct. 1 if voters approve both the $1.43 million bond issue for USD 489 and the associated city retail sales tax in a May 10 special election.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In other business, commissioners approved a low bid of $73, 577 from West Coast Netting, Kingman, Arizona, for a replacement of the foul ball safety net at Larks Park.&nbsp;They also approved low bids for 2022 street maintenance projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year’s program includes seal coat, polypatch, reconstruction of two concrete alleys, reconstruction of 22nd St. from Allen to Vine, bridge deck patching, and sidewalk construction.&nbsp;The total of the low bid contracts bis&nbsp; $705,000 to be funded out of the special highway fund.&nbsp;Photo caption corrected 7:40 a.m. Friday to correct school bond total cost.

🎥 Applause follows Hays City Commission vote to allow sales tax ballot for USD 489

Fourteen Fort Hays State University faculty, staff, and students were honored Friday afternoon during the 2022 spring convocation at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;

Three faculty members were selected for the faculty awards from the fall 2021 semester, one each in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. Each person receives a $500 cash award, funded through the support of Commerce Bank. The university deans provide $250 to the departments of the award winners.

Linda McHenry, instructor of English,&nbsp;received the Outstanding Teaching Award.

Dr. Gordon Carlson, associate professor of Communication Studies, was the recipient of the Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity Award.&nbsp;

The Outstanding Service Award for the fall semester went to&nbsp;Dr. Donnette Noble, associate professor of Leadership Studies.

The Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award recognizes an adjunct faculty member from each of the university’s five academic colleges. Each winner receives a $500 cash award. They are:

The President’s Distinguished Service Awards recognize two staff members, one from University Support Staff (USS) and one from Unclassified Professional Staff (UPS). The awards are presented for longevity, breadth of quality contributions, and the significance of their dedication and commitment to the university. Each receives a $500 cash award.

Linda Kepka, senior administrative assistant for the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting, was the USS winner.

Derek Johnson, network operations manager in the Office of Technology Services, was the UPS winner.

The Les and Elizabeth Griffin Outstanding Service Awards were presented to two staff members and two student workers in the university’s daily operations departments. Each staff winner receives a $500 cash award, and each student winner receives a $250 cash award.

Donna Augustine, horticulture supervisor in the Facilities and Planning Office,&nbsp;received the Griffin Family Outstanding Service Award for Facility Operations-Staff.&nbsp;Amber Neighbors from Wichita&nbsp;received the Facility Operations-Student award. She is&nbsp;a warehouse/delivery assistant in Central Purchasing.

Maria Rohr – salad bar/cashier for Chartwells –&nbsp;was the recipient of the Outstanding Food Service-Staff award.&nbsp;Danny Garcia from Garden City,&nbsp;shift lead at Starbucks in the Memorial Union, was the Food Service-Student award winner.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644270912562.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFourteen Fort Hays State University faculty, staff, and students were honored Friday afternoon during the 2022 spring convocation at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;Three faculty members were selected for the faculty awards from the fall 2021 semester, one each in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. Each person receives a $500 cash award, funded through the support of Commerce Bank. The university deans provide $250 to the departments of the award winners.Linda McHenry, instructor of English,&nbsp;received the Outstanding Teaching Award.Dr. Gordon Carlson, associate professor of Communication Studies, was the recipient of the Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity Award.&nbsp;The Outstanding Service Award for the fall semester went to&nbsp;Dr. Donnette Noble, associate professor of Leadership Studies.The Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award recognizes an adjunct faculty member from each of the university’s five academic colleges. Each winner receives a $500 cash award. They are:<ul>
 <li>Dr. John Mack, Department of History&nbsp;– College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.</li><li>Brian Hurley, Department of Informatics&nbsp;– Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship.</li><li>Arlea Carmack, Department of Advanced Education Programs –&nbsp;College of Education.</li><li>Breanna Taylor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders –&nbsp;College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.</li><li>Laura Haffner, Department of Agriculture&nbsp;– Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.</li>
 </ul>The President’s Distinguished Service Awards recognize two staff members, one from University Support Staff (USS) and one from Unclassified Professional Staff (UPS). The awards are presented for longevity, breadth of quality contributions, and the significance of their dedication and commitment to the university. Each receives a $500 cash award.Linda Kepka, senior administrative assistant for the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting, was the USS winner.Derek Johnson, network operations manager in the Office of Technology Services, was the UPS winner.The Les and Elizabeth Griffin Outstanding Service Awards were presented to two staff members and two student workers in the university’s daily operations departments. Each staff winner receives a $500 cash award, and each student winner receives a $250 cash award.Donna Augustine, horticulture supervisor in the Facilities and Planning Office,&nbsp;received the Griffin Family Outstanding Service Award for Facility Operations-Staff.&nbsp;Amber Neighbors from Wichita&nbsp;received the Facility Operations-Student award. She is&nbsp;a warehouse/delivery assistant in Central Purchasing.Maria Rohr – salad bar/cashier for Chartwells –&nbsp;was the recipient of the Outstanding Food Service-Staff award.&nbsp;Danny Garcia from Garden City,&nbsp;shift lead at Starbucks in the Memorial Union, was the Food Service-Student award winner.&nbsp;

Award winners recognized at Fort Hays State convocation

Huck Boyd Institute to name annual winners Feb. 14&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Two longtime Kansas journalists will be honored as Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year for Community Journalism on Feb. 14.&nbsp;

The winner in community newspapers is the late Dick Boyd and family from Norton, and the winner in community radio is Kelly Lenz of Topeka. They will be recognized at an online meeting of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development and the Huck Boyd National Center for Community Media at K-State.&nbsp;

The awards will be presented virtually on Zoom following the annual Huck Boyd Lecture in Community Media, which takes place on the K-State campus in Manhattan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“McDill ‘Huck’ Boyd was a great believer in preserving small towns and small-town media,”&nbsp;said Gloria Freeland, director emerita of the Huck Boyd National Center for Community Media.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We seek to highlight the importance of community journalism in Kansas and across the nation.”&nbsp;

Dick and Mary Beth Boyd were owners and publishers of the Norton County Telegram for 32 years and he continued to cover sports for the weekly Norton Telegram after that. He won numerous state and national journalism awards and served as president of the Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas in 2006.&nbsp;

A nephew of newspaper icon Huck Boyd, Dick Boyd passed away on June 25, 2020 at age 83.&nbsp;

“As publisher of the Norton Daily Telegram, Dick Boyd was a community booster who had a lot of pride for his paper and his town,”&nbsp;Freeland said. “He also covered nearby communities in the county with the same level of enthusiasm and positive energy.”&nbsp;

Kelly Lenz retired in 2019 after nearly 50 years as a radio broadcaster, including 41 years as farm director at WIBW radio in Topeka. He also served for 20 years as host of the Mid-Day in Kansas television show on WIBW-TV.&nbsp;

A winner of numerous awards, he was inducted into the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2016.&nbsp;

“Kansans depend on the important information Kelly Lenz has provided to the state’s agribusiness industry.&nbsp;Kelly’s&nbsp;constant coverage of farm news has been a hallmark of WIBW radio’s service to the people of Kansas,” said&nbsp;Steve Smethers, director of K-State’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644501941639.png" alt="Mary Beth and Dick Boyd" />
 <figcaption>Mary Beth and Dick Boyd</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Huck Boyd Institute to name annual winners Feb. 14&nbsp;</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN — Two longtime Kansas journalists will be honored as Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year for Community Journalism on Feb. 14.&nbsp;The winner in community newspapers is the late Dick Boyd and family from Norton, and the winner in community radio is Kelly Lenz of Topeka. They will be recognized at an online meeting of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development and the Huck Boyd National Center for Community Media at K-State.&nbsp;The awards will be presented virtually on Zoom following the annual Huck Boyd Lecture in Community Media, which takes place on the K-State campus in Manhattan.&nbsp;&nbsp;“McDill ‘Huck’ Boyd was a great believer in preserving small towns and small-town media,”&nbsp;said Gloria Freeland, director emerita of the Huck Boyd National Center for Community Media.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We seek to highlight the importance of community journalism in Kansas and across the nation.”&nbsp;<h2>Dick and Mary Beth Boyd&nbsp;</h2>Dick and Mary Beth Boyd were owners and publishers of the Norton County Telegram for 32 years and he continued to cover sports for the weekly Norton Telegram after that. He won numerous state and national journalism awards and served as president of the Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas in 2006.&nbsp;A nephew of newspaper icon Huck Boyd, Dick Boyd passed away on June 25, 2020 at age 83.&nbsp;“As publisher of the Norton Daily Telegram, Dick Boyd was a community booster who had a lot of pride for his paper and his town,”&nbsp;Freeland said. “He also covered nearby communities in the county with the same level of enthusiasm and positive energy.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644501981114.png" alt="Lenz" />
 <figcaption>Lenz</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kelly Lenz&nbsp;</h2>Kelly Lenz retired in 2019 after nearly 50 years as a radio broadcaster, including 41 years as farm director at WIBW radio in Topeka. He also served for 20 years as host of the Mid-Day in Kansas television show on WIBW-TV.&nbsp;A winner of numerous awards, he was inducted into the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2016.&nbsp;“Kansans depend on the important information Kelly Lenz has provided to the state’s agribusiness industry.&nbsp;Kelly’s&nbsp;constant coverage of farm news has been a hallmark of WIBW radio’s service to the people of Kansas,” said&nbsp;Steve Smethers, director of K-State’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications.&nbsp;

Longtime Norton publishers honored by Huck Boyd Institute

By PAM ZUBECK <a href="https://www.csindy.com/news/local/pikes-peak---americas-mountain-gets-new-manager/article_daf9a786-883b-11ec-8a1e-7fef5d03455e.html">Colorado Springs Indy</a>

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The city of Colorado Springs has hired a new manager of Pikes Peak - America's Mountain, after Jack Glavan retired last summer.

The
 new manager is Skyler Rorabaugh, who&nbsp;served as director of campus 
recreation at UCCS. There, he oversaw campus recreational facilities and
 operations, including financial management, community outreach, 
strategic planning, project and team management, sustainability, 
programming, and safety and risk management responsibilities.&nbsp;

As Pikes Peak manager, he'll manage, supervise, and coordinate 
activities and operations for the Pikes Peak Highway, North and South 
Slope recreation areas, Crystal Reservoir Gift Shop, Historic Glen Cove 
Inn, and the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, which opened in June 
2021.&nbsp;

Last year, Pikes Peak drew 550,381 visitors, the third 
highest annual visitation in the mountain’s history. The city operates 
the highway, recreation areas and facilities as part of a special use 
permit from the USDA Forest Service.

“Skyler brings more than two 
decades of leadership experience to Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, and
 we are thrilled to have someone with his capabilities and vision take 
on the responsibilities of the mountain,” Karen Palus, Colorado Springs’
 Parks Recreation &amp; Cultural Services director, said in a release. 
“Pikes Peak is a destination unlike any other, and Skyler brings with 
him an incredible passion for the outdoors, enthusiasm for working with 
the community, an unwavering commitment to safety, and a knack for 
creating memorable and lasting experiences. It’s an exciting time for 
Pikes Peak.”

Rorabaugh said, “This mountain is an important landmark in Colorado 
Springs, and it’s an honor to be selected to serve in this position. I 
will strive to continue to create unforgettable experiences for all who 
visit the mountain – whether it’s driving to the summit, fishing in one 
of the incredible reservoirs or racing to the top by car, foot or bike 
in the International Hill Climb, Cycling Hill Climb, or Ascent and 
Marathon. There are so many experiences to be had on Pikes Peak, and I’m
 excited to be a part of it.”

Rorabaugh's résumé includes serving 
as executive director of the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District 
in Estes Park; executive director of the Turner Recreation Commission in
 Kansas City, Kansas; aquatics director and recreation manager for the 
city of Bonner Springs; and executive director of the Ellis Recreation Commission. He has a bachelor's and master’s degree 
from Fort Hays State University and has lived in Colorado Springs since 2015
 with his wife, two children and their dog, Pearl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644341080136.png" alt="Skyler Rorabaugh / City of Colorado Springs " />
 <figcaption>Skyler Rorabaugh / City of Colorado Springs </figcaption>
 </figure>By PAM ZUBECK <a href="https://www.csindy.com/news/local/pikes-peak---americas-mountain-gets-new-manager/article_daf9a786-883b-11ec-8a1e-7fef5d03455e.html">Colorado Springs Indy</a>COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The city of Colorado Springs has hired a new manager of Pikes Peak - America's Mountain, after Jack Glavan retired last summer.The
 new manager is Skyler Rorabaugh, who&nbsp;served as director of campus 
recreation at UCCS. There, he oversaw campus recreational facilities and
 operations, including financial management, community outreach, 
strategic planning, project and team management, sustainability, 
programming, and safety and risk management responsibilities.&nbsp;As Pikes Peak manager, he'll manage, supervise, and coordinate 
activities and operations for the Pikes Peak Highway, North and South 
Slope recreation areas, Crystal Reservoir Gift Shop, Historic Glen Cove 
Inn, and the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, which opened in June 
2021.&nbsp;Last year, Pikes Peak drew 550,381 visitors, the third 
highest annual visitation in the mountain’s history. The city operates 
the highway, recreation areas and facilities as part of a special use 
permit from the USDA Forest Service.“Skyler brings more than two 
decades of leadership experience to Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, and
 we are thrilled to have someone with his capabilities and vision take 
on the responsibilities of the mountain,” Karen Palus, Colorado Springs’
 Parks Recreation &amp; Cultural Services director, said in a release. 
“Pikes Peak is a destination unlike any other, and Skyler brings with 
him an incredible passion for the outdoors, enthusiasm for working with 
the community, an unwavering commitment to safety, and a knack for 
creating memorable and lasting experiences. It’s an exciting time for 
Pikes Peak.”Rorabaugh said, “This mountain is an important landmark in Colorado 
Springs, and it’s an honor to be selected to serve in this position. I 
will strive to continue to create unforgettable experiences for all who 
visit the mountain – whether it’s driving to the summit, fishing in one 
of the incredible reservoirs or racing to the top by car, foot or bike 
in the International Hill Climb, Cycling Hill Climb, or Ascent and 
Marathon. There are so many experiences to be had on Pikes Peak, and I’m
 excited to be a part of it.”Rorabaugh's résumé includes serving 
as executive director of the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District 
in Estes Park; executive director of the Turner Recreation Commission in
 Kansas City, Kansas; aquatics director and recreation manager for the 
city of Bonner Springs; and executive director of the Ellis Recreation Commission. He has a bachelor's and master’s degree 
from Fort Hays State University and has lived in Colorado Springs since 2015
 with his wife, two children and their dog, Pearl.

FHSU grad named manager of Pikes Peak-America's Mountain

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644519535318.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>

The Center for Life Experience, Inc., Hays, Kansas,&nbsp;a 501(c)3&nbsp;organization supporting those in grief&nbsp;in&nbsp;northwest Kansas,&nbsp;is seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and facilitating trauma and grief support groups. In addition,&nbsp;the Executive Director will perform fund-raising functions and administrative duties as required. The ideal candidate will have specialization in trauma, grief and loss and the ability to work&nbsp;effectively&nbsp;with an Executive Board, key stakeholders and office administrator.

Strong communication skills, both verbal and written are paramount.&nbsp;Applicants&nbsp;with a background in &nbsp;budgeting, grants, social media and&nbsp;non-profit administration&nbsp;will be considered as strong candidates. Applicants should have bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, applied human services or psychology. Licensure in social work&nbsp;or clinical orientation&nbsp;is preferred.&nbsp;

The position offers flexible hours, with some evenings and weekends, along with competitive benefits and salary.&nbsp;

More information about the Center for Life Experience, Inc., is available at cflehope.org

Please&nbsp;email resume and cover letter to:&nbsp;Emily Weigel at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:emily@cflehope.org">emily@cflehope.org</a>

Review of qualified candidates begins Jan. 15, 2022.&nbsp;Position open until filled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644532764752.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Center for Life Experience, Inc., Hays, Kansas,&nbsp;a 501(c)3&nbsp;organization supporting those in grief&nbsp;in&nbsp;northwest Kansas,&nbsp;is seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and facilitating trauma and grief support groups. In addition,&nbsp;the Executive Director will perform fund-raising functions and administrative duties as required. The ideal candidate will have specialization in trauma, grief and loss and the ability to work&nbsp;effectively&nbsp;with an Executive Board, key stakeholders and office administrator.Strong communication skills, both verbal and written are paramount.&nbsp;Applicants&nbsp;with a background in &nbsp;budgeting, grants, social media and&nbsp;non-profit administration&nbsp;will be considered as strong candidates. Applicants should have bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, applied human services or psychology. Licensure in social work&nbsp;or clinical orientation&nbsp;is preferred.&nbsp;The position offers flexible hours, with some evenings and weekends, along with competitive benefits and salary.&nbsp;More information about the Center for Life Experience, Inc., is available at cflehope.orgPlease&nbsp;email resume and cover letter to:&nbsp;Emily Weigel at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:emily@cflehope.org">emily@cflehope.org</a>Review of qualified candidates begins Jan. 15, 2022.&nbsp;Position open until filled.

Fort Hays State benefactor Yvonne Robbins dies at 82

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.

<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.

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