Fort Hays State University exists to improve lives. Our alumni, engaged citizens leaders, use their education and improve the lives of others. This pay-it-forward mission makes our world better. Whether a teacher, banker, nurse, artist, or physicist, our alumni are dedicated professionals who transform their fields and their communities.

In a couple of weeks, the FHSU Alumni Association will honor seven remarkable change agents. I love listening and learning about their journeys and the remarkable impact they have made on our world.

As I walk across campus, stopping to talk with several students, I find myself also thinking about these seven award winners’ beginning steps and how Tiger Nation nurtures talents and self-discovery. I think about Maya Angelou’s statement that making a living is not the same thing as making a life. I think about the amazing students who have passed through our “halls” and those who are in the middle of figuring it all out right now. One of those is junior Hannah Dechant.&nbsp;

Hannah grew up in Goodland in northwest Kansas. For 13 years, her life was shaped and nurtured by her involvement in 4-H. She has shown sheep and dogs, done art and crafts, photography, and foods and nutrition.&nbsp;

“Growing up in my small town, agriculture is a way of life for us, so being in 4-H and doing so many things was not uncommon,” she said. “However, it was about a lot more than just all of the ribbons and awards I would receive. For me, it was about helping others achieve their goals and dreams.”

You may be guessing this accomplished 4-H’er came to campus to study agriculture. I did. Heck, Hannah even works on our university farm. As often is the case, there is more to Hannah’s story.&nbsp;

When Hannah was 5 years old, she was diagnosed with Amblyopia; she is legally blind in her left eye. That meant that throughout her K-12 years, she would navigate education via disability accommodations. As Hannah would say, there is an extra layer of challenges for those children who grow up with a disability. Her experiences as a person with a disability shaped and fueled her passion to become a special education teacher. At FHSU, Hannah is an elementary education major with a minor in special education.

“I have always had a heart for young kids, and 4-H only expanded on that more,” Hannah said. “Because I have been through the journey of living with a disability, and all the paperwork that comes with it for school, I will be able to help students with exceptionalities better.”&nbsp;

What I love about Hannah’s story is how she combines her love for agriculture with her calling to assist others with special needs.

“In 4-H, I have been able to help and teach students who have special needs reach their goals. I have been able to help those children feel like any other child,” she said. “For the past three years, I have been able to help a young girl who is unable to walk – or talk – show a lamb by training a lamb to walk by a wagon with her riding in it. I have also been able to help two children with a disability learn how to cook and bake.”

Hannah looks forward to the day she has her own classroom. She can’t wait to integrate different kinds of activities that will focus on all that agriculture has to offer.

“I feel that every student should understand agriculture and where our food comes from,” she said. I also want the children to know that livestock are not scary when you handle them the correct way.”&nbsp;

Hannah’s vision for her life is truly inspiring. Through that vision, I know her life will be rich, and those lives that she touches will be even more enriched.&nbsp;

In the words of Nelson Mandela, there is no doubt in my mind that a Fort Hays State education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. Thank you, Hannah, for your passion and the unique way you will make our world better one child at a time!&nbsp;

<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. Our alumni, engaged citizens leaders, use their education and improve the lives of others. This pay-it-forward mission makes our world better. Whether a teacher, banker, nurse, artist, or physicist, our alumni are dedicated professionals who transform their fields and their communities.In a couple of weeks, the FHSU Alumni Association will honor seven remarkable change agents. I love listening and learning about their journeys and the remarkable impact they have made on our world.As I walk across campus, stopping to talk with several students, I find myself also thinking about these seven award winners’ beginning steps and how Tiger Nation nurtures talents and self-discovery. I think about Maya Angelou’s statement that making a living is not the same thing as making a life. I think about the amazing students who have passed through our “halls” and those who are in the middle of figuring it all out right now. One of those is junior Hannah Dechant.&nbsp;Hannah grew up in Goodland in northwest Kansas. For 13 years, her life was shaped and nurtured by her involvement in 4-H. She has shown sheep and dogs, done art and crafts, photography, and foods and nutrition.&nbsp;“Growing up in my small town, agriculture is a way of life for us, so being in 4-H and doing so many things was not uncommon,” she said. “However, it was about a lot more than just all of the ribbons and awards I would receive. For me, it was about helping others achieve their goals and dreams.”You may be guessing this accomplished 4-H’er came to campus to study agriculture. I did. Heck, Hannah even works on our university farm. As often is the case, there is more to Hannah’s story.&nbsp;When Hannah was 5 years old, she was diagnosed with Amblyopia; she is legally blind in her left eye. That meant that throughout her K-12 years, she would navigate education via disability accommodations. As Hannah would say, there is an extra layer of challenges for those children who grow up with a disability. Her experiences as a person with a disability shaped and fueled her passion to become a special education teacher. At FHSU, Hannah is an elementary education major with a minor in special education.“I have always had a heart for young kids, and 4-H only expanded on that more,” Hannah said. “Because I have been through the journey of living with a disability, and all the paperwork that comes with it for school, I will be able to help students with exceptionalities better.”&nbsp;What I love about Hannah’s story is how she combines her love for agriculture with her calling to assist others with special needs.“In 4-H, I have been able to help and teach students who have special needs reach their goals. I have been able to help those children feel like any other child,” she said. “For the past three years, I have been able to help a young girl who is unable to walk – or talk – show a lamb by training a lamb to walk by a wagon with her riding in it. I have also been able to help two children with a disability learn how to cook and bake.”Hannah looks forward to the day she has her own classroom. She can’t wait to integrate different kinds of activities that will focus on all that agriculture has to offer.“I feel that every student should understand agriculture and where our food comes from,” she said. I also want the children to know that livestock are not scary when you handle them the correct way.”&nbsp;Hannah’s vision for her life is truly inspiring. Through that vision, I know her life will be rich, and those lives that she touches will be even more enriched.&nbsp;In the words of Nelson Mandela, there is no doubt in my mind that a Fort Hays State education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. Thank you, Hannah, for your passion and the unique way you will make our world better one child at a time!&nbsp;

MASON: An opportunity to change lives, community, the world

Three-day weather outlook

I love the Kansas State Fair and I love talking to people about trapping, so I spend some time each year at the Kansas Fur Harvesters Assn. booth, near the butter sculture, at the Kansas State Fair. That booth is an excellent way to educate people about the importance of trapping here in the U.S.&nbsp;

Displayed at the booth are tanned pelts representing every furbearer found in Kansas. Everyone enjoys trying to identify each pelt as they run their fingers through the soft luxurious fur. The skunk pelt is always a good conversation starter, and visitors are usually astonished at how soft and beautiful skunk fur really is; even more surprising to them is the fact that skunk essence is used in MINUTE amounts in perfume as an agent to hold and carry the aroma, making it last longer (ever noticed how long skunk smell hangs around?) We also have a unique hat made from 3 skunk pelts that provides me more fun than should be allowed. I talk fair visitors from seniors in wheelchairs to young kids into getting their pictures taken with it on their heads.&nbsp;

As people stop by the booth, one of the things we point out is that furbearers in Kansas are very prolific breeders and trapping is a perfect and necessary harvest tool to keep their populations manageable. Beavers have from one to six young each year, and they do considerable damage by damming streams and ponds that flood farmland, back roads and golf courses. They cut off newly planted saplings with just a couple bites and kill large standing trees by completely chewing off the bark as high as they can reach. Muskrats have three to five litters per year, each containing up to five kits, and even though they don’t chew trees, they can absolutely riddle dikes, stream banks and pond dams with holes for dens. Raccoons birth three or four young each year and their taste for eggs leads them to destroy large numbers of songbird, pheasant and quail nests every spring. Coyotes have six to ten pups each year and even if only three survive, that’s a three hundred percent population increase, and any hunter, farmer and rancher from the Midwest knows the predation damage to young deer fawns and livestock by coyotes.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Numerous men who stop at the booth trapped when they were kids and they often ask about fur prices today. Their eyes widen when we tell them that nearly all the wild-caught fur from the U.S. now goes overseas to China, Korea, Greece, Italy and Russia, so the economy of those countries and even the severity of winter in Russia directly affect the prices we are paid for our wild-caught fur here in Kansas.

As recently as a generation ago, hunting, trapping and fishing were never questioned and were just a part of life. Today, because of seasons and harvest limits there is more game and fish available for harvest than ever before in the history of our country, so it makes no sense to me that hunting, trapping and fishing would be challenged now. I wish every anti-hunter could envision a world without regulated hunting, trapping and fishing, where deer and predators died only from starvation, rampant disease and indiscriminate shooting; it wouldn’t be pretty! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>I love the Kansas State Fair and I love talking to people about trapping, so I spend some time each year at the Kansas Fur Harvesters Assn. booth, near the butter sculture, at the Kansas State Fair. That booth is an excellent way to educate people about the importance of trapping here in the U.S.&nbsp;Displayed at the booth are tanned pelts representing every furbearer found in Kansas. Everyone enjoys trying to identify each pelt as they run their fingers through the soft luxurious fur. The skunk pelt is always a good conversation starter, and visitors are usually astonished at how soft and beautiful skunk fur really is; even more surprising to them is the fact that skunk essence is used in MINUTE amounts in perfume as an agent to hold and carry the aroma, making it last longer (ever noticed how long skunk smell hangs around?) We also have a unique hat made from 3 skunk pelts that provides me more fun than should be allowed. I talk fair visitors from seniors in wheelchairs to young kids into getting their pictures taken with it on their heads.&nbsp;As people stop by the booth, one of the things we point out is that furbearers in Kansas are very prolific breeders and trapping is a perfect and necessary harvest tool to keep their populations manageable. Beavers have from one to six young each year, and they do considerable damage by damming streams and ponds that flood farmland, back roads and golf courses. They cut off newly planted saplings with just a couple bites and kill large standing trees by completely chewing off the bark as high as they can reach. Muskrats have three to five litters per year, each containing up to five kits, and even though they don’t chew trees, they can absolutely riddle dikes, stream banks and pond dams with holes for dens. Raccoons birth three or four young each year and their taste for eggs leads them to destroy large numbers of songbird, pheasant and quail nests every spring. Coyotes have six to ten pups each year and even if only three survive, that’s a three hundred percent population increase, and any hunter, farmer and rancher from the Midwest knows the predation damage to young deer fawns and livestock by coyotes.&nbsp; &nbsp;Numerous men who stop at the booth trapped when they were kids and they often ask about fur prices today. Their eyes widen when we tell them that nearly all the wild-caught fur from the U.S. now goes overseas to China, Korea, Greece, Italy and Russia, so the economy of those countries and even the severity of winter in Russia directly affect the prices we are paid for our wild-caught fur here in Kansas.As recently as a generation ago, hunting, trapping and fishing were never questioned and were just a part of life. Today, because of seasons and harvest limits there is more game and fish available for harvest than ever before in the history of our country, so it makes no sense to me that hunting, trapping and fishing would be challenged now. I wish every anti-hunter could envision a world without regulated hunting, trapping and fishing, where deer and predators died only from starvation, rampant disease and indiscriminate shooting; it wouldn’t be pretty! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.&nbsp;

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Trapping apologetics

ELLIS — Ellis USD 388 will have a community input session on Sept. 26 to discuss a potential school bond. 

The meeting will be at 3:30 p.m. at the Ellis Knights of Columbus Hall, 1009 Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632340190732.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 388ELLIS — Ellis USD 388 will have a community input session on Sept. 26 to discuss a potential school bond. The meeting will be at 3:30 p.m. at the Ellis Knights of Columbus Hall, 1009 Washington.

Ellis school district will have open meeting to discuss bond issue

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 28 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 484 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

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

As of Wednesday morning, there were 10 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 11 Monday.

The KDHE reported Monday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,288 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632330147347.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 28 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 484 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, there were 10 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 11 Monday.The KDHE reported Monday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,288 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 28 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District agent, Stacy Campbell shares information about this year's abundance of fall army worms.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Fall army worms pose threat to freshly planted wheat" 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=5kveb-10e7bd4-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District agent, Stacy Campbell shares information about this year's abundance of fall army worms.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Fall army worms pose threat to freshly planted wheat

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus is hosting a graduate student exhibitoin through Oct. 1.

The exhibit features graduate students from disciplines from across the art department.

Tyler Dallis, a photography and ceramics major, has three pieces in the exhibit. The first is a set of photographs depicting him at his three jobs outside of school. He works at the Moss-Thorns gallery, Dillons and teaches at a community college. The sepia photos are in hand-made frames and he said relate to how he feels about each job.

His second piece is a photograph titled "Release." It is a self-portrait of himself covered in cellophane with white handprints all over his body. He said it relates feelings of anxiety.

His third piece, a much more light-hearted series of photographs, depicts his friends, each with a flower superimposed over them.

When you are given flowers, your brain releases the feel-good chemicals&nbsp;dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin. Dallis said he wanted to express the joy his friends bring to him.

Tanner Hoffman's focus is sculpture and printmaking. His piece "Pareidolia" is constructed from cast iron and steel. Hoffman of Johnstown, Pa., explained the piece as an exploration of form and texture.&nbsp; The bed of metal floats on an almost weightless bed of rings, he said.

 His lithograph titled "My Dad's Crystal Meth Craft Shed" is part of greater series titled "Idle Hands." The series explores his relationship with his father, who was a drug addict.&nbsp;

"He had a duality about him," Hoffman said. "He had a violent streak. He had a problem with drugs. He had all these problems with relationships and me, but he had this weird side to him where he could be very gentle and caring. He could be very creative."

Kammy Kennelley-Downs has one piece in the exhibit, "Journey Begins." The fiber piece is all about seeds. In the beginning of a seed's life, it is blown around.&nbsp;

Kennelley-Downs said she identifies with the movement of the seed. She's moved 30 times in her life from California to Missouri. She is part of FHSU's low-residency program and lives in Kansas City, Mo.&nbsp;

"It's a little bit about my path — being blow all around — but it's also about growth," she said.&nbsp;

The main fabric is a piece of muslin that&nbsp;Kennelley-Downs found in her grandmother's attic. It was likely originally destined to be a quilt back. The image on the piece is created with ink, graphite, coffee and hand-stitched silk.&nbsp;

Kathy Robb showed another of her ceramics pieces that will be a part of her thesis exhibit that is scheduled for Jan. 24-Feb. 25 in the Moss-Thorns gallery. This piece titled "Eaves Dropper" depicts a chameleon on a branch.&nbsp;

Robb takes her inspiration from nature and animals and often assigns human characteristics to the creatures she sculpts.&nbsp;

She said the chameleon, which can rotate its eyes 180 degrees is like the neighborhood snoop.&nbsp;

Thomas Giebler of Andover is focusing on motion design. His animated promotional video is showing in the south section of the gallery and depicts a robot trying to reboot a complex computer system. In the end, the problem is solved by simply unplugging and replugging in the computer.

He is also exhibiting a digital illustration titled "How Long, How Long." The image is autobiographical of Giebler as he was trying to manage the isolation of the pandemic. It depicts him under a small rock overhang warming himself by a fire with an endless string of hash marks behind him on the rock.

"The painting represents my feelings of feeling a little bit trapped," he said, "like the unease of everything going on and 'When will this end?'"

Giebler said he hopes teach animation when he finishes his MFA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632162936652.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University art graduate student Tyler Dallis discusses his photographs "Where I've Been" with fellow art graduate student&nbsp;Thomas Giebler Friday during the opening reception of a graduate student exhibition at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art." />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University art graduate student Tyler Dallis discusses his photographs "Where I've Been" with fellow art graduate student&nbsp;Thomas Giebler Friday during the opening reception of a graduate student exhibition at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus is hosting a graduate student exhibitoin through Oct. 1.The exhibit features graduate students from disciplines from across the art department.Tyler Dallis, a photography and ceramics major, has three pieces in the exhibit. The first is a set of photographs depicting him at his three jobs outside of school. He works at the Moss-Thorns gallery, Dillons and teaches at a community college. The sepia photos are in hand-made frames and he said relate to how he feels about each job.His second piece is a photograph titled "Release." It is a self-portrait of himself covered in cellophane with white handprints all over his body. He said it relates feelings of anxiety.His third piece, a much more light-hearted series of photographs, depicts his friends, each with a flower superimposed over them.When you are given flowers, your brain releases the feel-good chemicals&nbsp;dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin. Dallis said he wanted to express the joy his friends bring to him.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632163285548.jpeg" alt="Tanner Hoffman's "Pareidolia"" />
 <figcaption>Tanner Hoffman's "Pareidolia"</figcaption>
 </figure>Tanner Hoffman's focus is sculpture and printmaking. His piece "Pareidolia" is constructed from cast iron and steel. Hoffman of Johnstown, Pa., explained the piece as an exploration of form and texture.&nbsp; The bed of metal floats on an almost weightless bed of rings, he said. His lithograph titled "My Dad's Crystal Meth Craft Shed" is part of greater series titled "Idle Hands." The series explores his relationship with his father, who was a drug addict.&nbsp;"He had a duality about him," Hoffman said. "He had a violent streak. He had a problem with drugs. He had all these problems with relationships and me, but he had this weird side to him where he could be very gentle and caring. He could be very creative."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632163472781.jpeg" alt="Tanner Hoffman's lithograph&nbsp;"My Dad's Crystal Meth Craft Shed"" />
 <figcaption>Tanner Hoffman's lithograph&nbsp;"My Dad's Crystal Meth Craft Shed"</figcaption>
 </figure>Kammy Kennelley-Downs has one piece in the exhibit, "Journey Begins." The fiber piece is all about seeds. In the beginning of a seed's life, it is blown around.&nbsp;Kennelley-Downs said she identifies with the movement of the seed. She's moved 30 times in her life from California to Missouri. She is part of FHSU's low-residency program and lives in Kansas City, Mo.&nbsp;"It's a little bit about my path — being blow all around — but it's also about growth," she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632163671522.jpeg" alt="Kammy Kennelley-Downs'&nbsp;"Journey Begins"" />
 <figcaption>Kammy Kennelley-Downs'&nbsp;"Journey Begins"</figcaption>
 </figure>The main fabric is a piece of muslin that&nbsp;Kennelley-Downs found in her grandmother's attic. It was likely originally destined to be a quilt back. The image on the piece is created with ink, graphite, coffee and hand-stitched silk.&nbsp;Kathy Robb showed another of her ceramics pieces that will be a part of her thesis exhibit that is scheduled for Jan. 24-Feb. 25 in the Moss-Thorns gallery. This piece titled "Eaves Dropper" depicts a chameleon on a branch.&nbsp;Robb takes her inspiration from nature and animals and often assigns human characteristics to the creatures she sculpts.&nbsp;She said the chameleon, which can rotate its eyes 180 degrees is like the neighborhood snoop.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632163849579.jpeg" alt="Kathy Robb's&nbsp;"Eaves Dropper"" />
 <figcaption>Kathy Robb's&nbsp;"Eaves Dropper"</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas Giebler of Andover is focusing on motion design. His animated promotional video is showing in the south section of the gallery and depicts a robot trying to reboot a complex computer system. In the end, the problem is solved by simply unplugging and replugging in the computer.He is also exhibiting a digital illustration titled "How Long, How Long." The image is autobiographical of Giebler as he was trying to manage the isolation of the pandemic. It depicts him under a small rock overhang warming himself by a fire with an endless string of hash marks behind him on the rock.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632164130457.jpeg" alt="FHSU art graduate student&nbsp;Thomas Giebler's digital animation." />
 <figcaption>FHSU art graduate student&nbsp;Thomas Giebler's digital animation.</figcaption>
 </figure>"The painting represents my feelings of feeling a little bit trapped," he said, "like the unease of everything going on and 'When will this end?'"Giebler said he hopes teach animation when he finishes his MFA.

Moss-Thorns features graduate students' work through Oct. 1

Tickets are on sale now for the Hays USD 489 Foundation for Education Excellence dinner and auction.

The event will be Saturday, Oct. 23, at the Unrein Building. Cost is $65 per person or $500 for a table of eight. <a href="https://fundraiser.support/project489">Tickets can be purchased online.</a>&nbsp;You may also call the USD 489 district office at (785) 623-2400 for assistance purchasing tickets.

The foundation is also still accepting sponsors for the event. That can also be done online.

Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner and entertainment starting at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp; Entertainment will be provided by the Hays High School Chamber Singers. Dinner will be provided by Smokin' Co.

The event will include a raffle, and silent and live auctions.

Raffles tickets are also on sale now. There will be a $1,000 cash raffle, $500 cash raffle and a $500 Chamber cheques raffle. Raffle tickets are $10 apiece or three for $20.  Tickets can only be purchased the night of the auction. 

This is the third year for the foundation auction. The event had to be canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. However, the foundation received federal CARES Act funds to cover the lost revenue.

The foundation's goal is to raise $50,000 this year.

Curtis Brown, foundation president, said the foundation has been in existence since 1988. However, the auction was launched in 2018 with the mission to pay for safety and security upgrades at the district schools.

"For kids to learn, they need to feel safe," Brown said.

Those upgrades had been part of a failed bond attempt in 2017.

Secure entrances have been completed at Hays High School, Hays Middle School and Roosevelt and Lincoln elementary schools. The foundation has contributed $134,000 to those projects.

Secure entrance projects are underway at Wilson and O'Loughlin elementary schools.

In addition to the security upgrades, the foundation makes grants to USD 489 teachers and administrators for smaller projects.

Projects the foundation has funded in the last year include lunches for Learning Center students, renovations at Westside, partial funding for Roosevelt playground improvements, special education assessment tools, reading books for Wilson first-graders and partial funding for O'Loughlin physical education equipment.

There will be a special auction number during the event to benefit this grant program.

The Maroon and Gold sponsors for the event are Werth Wealth Management and Michael Schaffer with Ameriprise Financial.

You can also follow the foundation on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD489FoundationforEducationalExcellence">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631904732577.jpeg" alt="A previous USD 489 Foundation for Education Excellence dinner and auction. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A previous USD 489 Foundation for Education Excellence dinner and auction. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTickets are on sale now for the Hays USD 489 Foundation for Education Excellence dinner and auction.The event will be Saturday, Oct. 23, at the Unrein Building. Cost is $65 per person or $500 for a table of eight. <a href="https://fundraiser.support/project489">Tickets can be purchased online.</a>&nbsp;You may also call the USD 489 district office at (785) 623-2400 for assistance purchasing tickets.The foundation is also still accepting sponsors for the event. That can also be done online.Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner and entertainment starting at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp; Entertainment will be provided by the Hays High School Chamber Singers. Dinner will be provided by Smokin' Co.The event will include a raffle, and silent and live auctions.Raffles tickets are also on sale now. There will be a $1,000 cash raffle, $500 cash raffle and a $500 Chamber cheques raffle. Raffle tickets are $10 apiece or three for $20. Tickets can only be purchased the night of the auction. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631905032573.jpeg" alt="This year's foundation dinner will also include a live auction, silent auction and raffle. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>This year's foundation dinner will also include a live auction, silent auction and raffle. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>This is the third year for the foundation auction. The event had to be canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. However, the foundation received federal CARES Act funds to cover the lost revenue.The foundation's goal is to raise $50,000 this year.Curtis Brown, foundation president, said the foundation has been in existence since 1988. However, the auction was launched in 2018 with the mission to pay for safety and security upgrades at the district schools."For kids to learn, they need to feel safe," Brown said.Those upgrades had been part of a failed bond attempt in 2017.Secure entrances have been completed at Hays High School, Hays Middle School and Roosevelt and Lincoln elementary schools. The foundation has contributed $134,000 to those projects.Secure entrance projects are underway at Wilson and O'Loughlin elementary schools.In addition to the security upgrades, the foundation makes grants to USD 489 teachers and administrators for smaller projects.Projects the foundation has funded in the last year include lunches for Learning Center students, renovations at Westside, partial funding for Roosevelt playground improvements, special education assessment tools, reading books for Wilson first-graders and partial funding for O'Loughlin physical education equipment.There will be a special auction number during the event to benefit this grant program.The Maroon and Gold sponsors for the event are Werth Wealth Management and Michael Schaffer with Ameriprise Financial.You can also follow the foundation on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD489FoundationforEducationalExcellence">Facebook</a>.

USD 489 dinner, auction to help fund school secure entrances

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today recognized 325 schools as&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dzIuZWQuZ292L3Byb2dyYW1zL25jbGJicnMvaW5kZXguaHRtbD91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.pd46RO8JJvrIPRYxfjQW7O5HyyHiQkTapBjdDf2LsXQ/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l">National Blue Ribbon Schools</a>&nbsp;for 2021, including five schools in Kansas. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Secretary Cardona made the announcement during his&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5lZC5nb3YvbmV3cy9wcmVzcy1yZWxlYXNlcy91cy1kZXBhcnRtZW50LWVkdWNhdGlvbi1hbm5vdW5jZXMtcmV0dXJuLXNjaG9vbC1yb2FkLXRyaXAtc3BvdGxpZ2h0LXNhZmUtcmV0dXJuLXBlcnNvbi1sZWFybmluZz91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.3pBTes0NKXe6hopw199DqqbiRf0UIktlWkQ-PRocBGg/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l">Return to School Road Trip</a>, while visiting an awardee school, Walter R. Sundling Jr. High School, in Palatine, Illinois.

The Kansas schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were:

“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said Secretary Cardona. “I commend all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, you found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have so much to offer and can serve as a model for other schools and communities so that we can truly build back better.”

The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 39th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.

The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon Schools nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632237384552.png" alt="Courtesy U.S. Department of Education" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy U.S. Department of Education</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseU.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today recognized 325 schools as&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dzIuZWQuZ292L3Byb2dyYW1zL25jbGJicnMvaW5kZXguaHRtbD91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.pd46RO8JJvrIPRYxfjQW7O5HyyHiQkTapBjdDf2LsXQ/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l">National Blue Ribbon Schools</a>&nbsp;for 2021, including five schools in Kansas. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Secretary Cardona made the announcement during his&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5lZC5nb3YvbmV3cy9wcmVzcy1yZWxlYXNlcy91cy1kZXBhcnRtZW50LWVkdWNhdGlvbi1hbm5vdW5jZXMtcmV0dXJuLXNjaG9vbC1yb2FkLXRyaXAtc3BvdGxpZ2h0LXNhZmUtcmV0dXJuLXBlcnNvbi1sZWFybmluZz91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.3pBTes0NKXe6hopw199DqqbiRf0UIktlWkQ-PRocBGg/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l">Return to School Road Trip</a>, while visiting an awardee school, Walter R. Sundling Jr. High School, in Palatine, Illinois.The Kansas schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were:<ul>
 <li>El Dorado – Grandview Elementary School, El Dorado Public Schools Unified School District #490.</li><li>Ellsworth – Ellsworth Elementary School, Ellsworth Unified School District 327.</li><li>Hays – Roosevelt Elementary School, Hays Unified School District 489.</li><li>Olathe – Mahaffie Elementary School, Olathe Unified School District 233.</li><li>Sabetha – Sabetha Elementary School, Prairie Hills Unified School District 113.</li>
 </ul>“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said Secretary Cardona. “I commend all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, you found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have so much to offer and can serve as a model for other schools and communities so that we can truly build back better.”The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 39th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:<ul>
 <li>Exemplary High-Performing Schools&nbsp;are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.</li><li>Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools&nbsp;are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.</li>
 </ul>Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon Schools nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.

Hays elementary school among 2021 National Blue Ribbon Schools

The eighth annual Student Awareness Day will be hosted by the Fort Hays State University Foundation from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 23, in FHSU’s Robbins Center. Awareness Day was created to further educate current Tigers about the importance of private support and fundraising.

Students who attend will be eligible for one of seven scholarships for use in the spring 2022 semester. Students will be entered to win one of five $100 scholarships and one $1,000 scholarship just for attending. Students wearing FHSU gear will receive an extra entry.&nbsp;

Students will also be entered to win an additional $500 award if they post a photo to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with the hashtag “#AwarenessDay.”

“Thank you to Astra Bank for serving as our scholarship sponsor for this event and for helping us educate our FHSU students and making them aware of the many people behind the private support that Fort Hays State University receives,” said Ricardo Zamora, FHSU Foundation’s Director of Annual Giving.

FHSU students in attendance will also enjoy a free lunch. In years past, approximately 375 Fort Hays State students have stopped by to receive a free lunch and for the opportunity to win a scholarship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632240938602.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe eighth annual Student Awareness Day will be hosted by the Fort Hays State University Foundation from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 23, in FHSU’s Robbins Center. Awareness Day was created to further educate current Tigers about the importance of private support and fundraising.Students who attend will be eligible for one of seven scholarships for use in the spring 2022 semester. Students will be entered to win one of five $100 scholarships and one $1,000 scholarship just for attending. Students wearing FHSU gear will receive an extra entry.&nbsp;Students will also be entered to win an additional $500 award if they post a photo to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with the hashtag “#AwarenessDay.”“Thank you to Astra Bank for serving as our scholarship sponsor for this event and for helping us educate our FHSU students and making them aware of the many people behind the private support that Fort Hays State University receives,” said Ricardo Zamora, FHSU Foundation’s Director of Annual Giving.FHSU students in attendance will also enjoy a free lunch. In years past, approximately 375 Fort Hays State students have stopped by to receive a free lunch and for the opportunity to win a scholarship.

Student Awareness Day set for Thursday at Fort Hays State

September is Baby Safety Month so this is a perfect time to review these 10 safety tips from Safe Kids and the CDC.&nbsp;

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>September is Baby Safety Month so this is a perfect time to review these 10 safety tips from Safe Kids and the CDC.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Check to make sure your car seat is installed correctly. The Safe Kids Worldwide provides virtual inspections and there are specific videos on how to correctly install a car seat. Local law enforcement officers may check car seats if you have questions about the installation.&nbsp;</li><li>Before putting your baby down for the night, remember that a firm mattress and fitted sheet are all you need for your baby’s crib. Remove blankets and toys from the crib and use a sleep sack on colder nights.&nbsp;</li><li>Place your baby’s crib and other furniture away from windows to avoid falls or strangulation. Your baby is safer without any strings or cords within reach.&nbsp;</li><li>Remember to set your water heater to 120° F to avoid scalds. make sure that the water never gets to a point that could injury the baby.&nbsp;</li><li>Install working smoke alarm AND a carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home, and in all sleeping areas. This is an important tip for not just baby safety, but family safety as well.&nbsp; test the alarms regularly to make sure they work.&nbsp;</li><li>Use approved safety gates at the tops and bottoms of stairs and attach them to the wall, if possible. Remember to read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels to make sure you have the right gate for your needs.&nbsp;</li><li>Store poisonous items out of reach or use safety locks on cabinets within reach. These items also include&nbsp;liquid packets for the laundry and dishwasher. It only takes a few minutes, and it gives you one less thing to worry about. Put the poison help number, 1-800-222-1222, on or near every home telephone and save it on your cell phone.&nbsp;</li><li>Install stops on dresser drawers to prevent them from being pulled all the way out. Multiple open drawers can cause the weight to shift, making it easier for a dresser to fall.&nbsp;</li><li>Keep the toilet lids closed and use toilet seat locks to prevent drowning. It’s also a good idea to keep doors to bathrooms and laundry rooms closed.&nbsp;</li><li>And, last but not least, see the world from a child's point of view. Get on the floor, on your hands and knees so that you are at your child's eye level. Look for and remove small items. We know that babies will put anything and everything in their mouths. Remove everything that a child might choke on. The main thing is to always stay with the child and never leave a baby unattended.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>	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: Baby safety month 

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with Brian Ruder from the Brian Ruder Insurance Agency share information about the ongoing Business Showcase Challenge.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber‘s latest Business Showcase ends Friday" 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=9rixv-10e638e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with Brian Ruder from the Brian Ruder Insurance Agency share information about the ongoing Business Showcase Challenge.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber's latest Business Showcase ends Friday

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY <a href="https://salinapost.com">Salina Post</a>

Coming
 off a busy summer concert schedule, the local band was named 
Entertainer of the Year (Group) in the Southern Rock/Country Rock 
category of the Josie Music Awards. The awards were presented during a 
two-day event Friday and Saturday in the Country Tonite Theatre in 
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

"This is totally cool and a great honor," said
 Sunset Sinners' drummer Blake Blackim. "Anytime you can be recognized, 
its a big deal. Is this the CMAs? No. But it is just right under the 
CMAs. This recognition shows that we're on the right track."

According to the organization's <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "the Josie Music Awards was created solely to celebrate those in the 
independent music industry that work so hard every day and deserve to 
have a night of their own."

During an interview in May when the 
award show nominations were revealed, Blackim told Salina Post that the 
nomination came about after he was interviewed a few weeks prior on The 
Josie Show by Josie Passantino, who also is the namesake of the awards 
show. The internet radio show can be heard on Thursday nights.

Blackim said Passantino encouraged the Sunset Sinners to submit its Always Time for One More Beer
 for award consideration. As it turned out, the song led to the Sunset 
Sinners being nominated for Group of the Year in the Southern 
Rock/Country Rock category.

Because of the rigid review process 
for the Josie Music Awards, just being nominated for an award is an 
honor. According to the Josie Music Awards <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "Nominee suggestions go through a lengthy review process by a team of 
industry leaders and the official nomination list is created from their 
final decisions. Winners are also selected by this industry leader team 
(this review team has no connection to independent artists)."

Recognition
 for the Sunset Sinners doesn't stop with the Josie Music Awards. A few 
of weeks ago, the band's debut album, a compilation of their singles, 
was released, and it is already garnering attention. Fireworks, a music 
magazine in the United Kingdom, has scheduled a glowing review of the 
Sunset Sinners' album in its October issue. Additionally, another U.K. 
music magazine, Powerplay, has scheduled a feature about the Sunset 
Sinners for its November issue.

Blackim said the album is available on all the major music streaming services.

Additionally, two Sunset Sinners' singles - Old Glory and Friday Night - have been seen on the Nashville Music Row Charts, Blackim said.

What's
 next for the Sunset Sinners? The band's patriotic-themed show, Red, 
White, &amp; Brews is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Stiefel 
Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Kansas City based blues rock powerhouse
 MAHAN, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Howard Mahan, is scheduled to
 open the show, according to information from the Stiefel Theatre.

Tickets
 are $23 for general admission and can be purchased from noon-5 p.m. 
Monday through Friday at the Stiefel Theatre walk-up window box office 
next to the main entrance. Additionally, you can call the Stiefel at 
785-827-1998 to buy direct or buy online at stiefeltheatre.org.

Sunset
 Sinners will bring their Red White &amp; Brews Tour to the Stiefel 
Theatre as the ultimate party concert to honor military, veterans, and 
first responders.

"We're all about honoring active military, 
veterans, and first responders," Blackim told Salina Post when the 
concert was announced. "It's because of them that we're able to go out 
and play and perform! We even wrote a song called Old Glory that's 
recently been on the Nashville radio charts. It's dedicated to everyone 
that had the courage to sign up and serve."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608652164504.jpeg" alt="The Sunset Sinners, from left, Brad Johnson, Tony Bowell, Blake Blackim, and Chris Brungardt of Hays. All photos courtesy Blake Blackim" />
 <figcaption>The Sunset Sinners, from left, Brad Johnson, Tony Bowell, Blake Blackim, and Chris Brungardt of Hays. All photos courtesy Blake Blackim</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY <a href="https://salinapost.com">Salina Post</a>The Sunset Sinners are winners!Coming
 off a busy summer concert schedule, the local band was named 
Entertainer of the Year (Group) in the Southern Rock/Country Rock 
category of the Josie Music Awards. The awards were presented during a 
two-day event Friday and Saturday in the Country Tonite Theatre in 
Pigeon Forge, Tenn."This is totally cool and a great honor," said
 Sunset Sinners' drummer Blake Blackim. "Anytime you can be recognized, 
its a big deal. Is this the CMAs? No. But it is just right under the 
CMAs. This recognition shows that we're on the right track."According to the organization's <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "the Josie Music Awards was created solely to celebrate those in the 
independent music industry that work so hard every day and deserve to 
have a night of their own."During an interview in May when the 
award show nominations were revealed, Blackim told Salina Post that the 
nomination came about after he was interviewed a few weeks prior on The 
Josie Show by Josie Passantino, who also is the namesake of the awards 
show. The internet radio show can be heard on Thursday nights.Blackim said Passantino encouraged the Sunset Sinners to submit its Always Time for One More Beer
 for award consideration. As it turned out, the song led to the Sunset 
Sinners being nominated for Group of the Year in the Southern 
Rock/Country Rock category.Because of the rigid review process 
for the Josie Music Awards, just being nominated for an award is an 
honor. According to the Josie Music Awards <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "Nominee suggestions go through a lengthy review process by a team of 
industry leaders and the official nomination list is created from their 
final decisions. Winners are also selected by this industry leader team 
(this review team has no connection to independent artists)."Recognition
 for the Sunset Sinners doesn't stop with the Josie Music Awards. A few 
of weeks ago, the band's debut album, a compilation of their singles, 
was released, and it is already garnering attention. Fireworks, a music 
magazine in the United Kingdom, has scheduled a glowing review of the 
Sunset Sinners' album in its October issue. Additionally, another U.K. 
music magazine, Powerplay, has scheduled a feature about the Sunset 
Sinners for its November issue.Blackim said the album is available on all the major music streaming services.Additionally, two Sunset Sinners' singles - Old Glory and Friday Night - have been seen on the Nashville Music Row Charts, Blackim said.What's
 next for the Sunset Sinners? The band's patriotic-themed show, Red, 
White, &amp; Brews is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Stiefel 
Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Kansas City based blues rock powerhouse
 MAHAN, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Howard Mahan, is scheduled to
 open the show, according to information from the Stiefel Theatre.Tickets
 are $23 for general admission and can be purchased from noon-5 p.m. 
Monday through Friday at the Stiefel Theatre walk-up window box office 
next to the main entrance. Additionally, you can call the Stiefel at 
785-827-1998 to buy direct or buy online at stiefeltheatre.org.Sunset
 Sinners will bring their Red White &amp; Brews Tour to the Stiefel 
Theatre as the ultimate party concert to honor military, veterans, and 
first responders."We're all about honoring active military, 
veterans, and first responders," Blackim told Salina Post when the 
concert was announced. "It's because of them that we're able to go out 
and play and perform! We even wrote a song called Old Glory that's 
recently been on the Nashville radio charts. It's dedicated to everyone 
that had the courage to sign up and serve."

Sunset Sinners receive Entertainer of the Year group award

🏈 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

The newest business in downtown Hays has now opened, bringing day spa services to downtown Hays from a historic location.

Owners Caroline Beilman and&nbsp;Vanessa Schumacher, see The Brickhouse Day Spa, 706 Main, as a welcome addition to downtown, bringing a variety of beauty and health services to downtown.

"I have worked on both the medical side and the day spa side," Beilman said. "I really wanted an environment where I could still pamper people, but give them the results I got working on the medical side."

The location currently offers facials, massage and skin care treatments provided by Beilman and a small staff that includes two licensed cosmologists and a massage therapist, along with nails, pedicures and lashes.

"I think that is a big part of it," Beilman said. "Having a really great staff. And we have a small staff, which is nice, too, because it makes the environment very relaxing.

"It's nice and relaxing in here, it's never really busy or crazy," she added. "And I think that is what people want in a spa environment."

They also provide hydrotherapy in the location, which she said compliments their other services.

"It really relaxes you," Beilman said. "It's not like being in a hot tub — it's more of a thermal message."

"It's about bringing a quality spa to the Hays area," Schumacher said.&nbsp;

"A lot of places you go and get a facial or massage or whatever it might be, you have to add on the cupping, or the hot stones, or whatever it may be, you have to add all these things on," Beilman said. "Versus here ... anything they need that is going to benefit them so they walk out of here feeling better will be included in the treatment."

She said that customized treatment allows the clients to receive services that work for them.

"What works for Sally may not work for Sarah, because everyone's skin is different," Beilman said. "So that is why my major passion is skincare and skincare treatments. That is the driving force behind it."

She said with her own location she is not locked into a particular product, but rather can do a skin analysis and use their services to create positive outcomes.

"It's fun to go pamper yourself, but it's also nice to get results," Beilman said.&nbsp;

While the business was a longtime dream for the owners, it took the pandemic to make the spa reality.

"We kind of started joking about having this dream of opening something like this together," Schumacher said, while her and Beilman were stuck in a 14-day quarantine.

During that time, she asked Beilman about a downtown Hays building that she might be interested in if it were to happen.

"So she went back to work, and I started making phone calls," Schumacher said.

Ultimately, she would connect with the owner and he agreed to sell the building, one of the few empty locations available in downtown.

"It's kind of funny to think about now, Schumacher said. "I can only imagine getting that phone call from me."

With a deed in hand and the realization that their dream could become a reality, they began working to revitalize the historic building, built in 1926.

"It was originally the first cash-and-carry grocery store when Hill built it," Schumacher said.

She said their research indicated it remained a grocery for around 20 years, before becoming home to several cafes, and ultimately a screen printing shop, which had closed in recent years.

"It took a lot of digging to find the historical information on it," Schumacher said.

During the remodel, the owners — along with their significant others — worked to create a modern space that would suit the needs of the business.

"They are truly the masterminds behind this," Schumacher said, "as well as our designer, Emily Knowles of Emily Knowles Design. She came up with the concept and made the space work for us."

During the early stages of the remodel, the interior brick stood out, so they pushed Knowles to incorporate it into the design.

It would also change the business identity.

"We had Emily redesign everything so we could keep the brick exposed, Schumacher said. "And we renamed ourselves because this wasn't the original name."

"We got everything we wanted and it all fits perfectly,"&nbsp;Beilman said.

Being a part of the downtown community is also a part of the business identity, and Schumacher said the response so far has been amazing.

"Being on the Bricks, we are a part of this really cool community of business owners and everybody has been so kind and so nice," she said. "It was an outpouring of kindness and positivity."

The Brickhouse Day Spa is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more about the spa, visit their website <a href="http://www.brickhousedayspa.com">brickhousedayspa.com</a>

They also maintain a presence on social media including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brickhousedayspa">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632193506766.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe newest business in downtown Hays has now opened, bringing day spa services to downtown Hays from a historic location.Owners Caroline Beilman and&nbsp;Vanessa Schumacher, see The Brickhouse Day Spa, 706 Main, as a welcome addition to downtown, bringing a variety of beauty and health services to downtown."I have worked on both the medical side and the day spa side," Beilman said. "I really wanted an environment where I could still pamper people, but give them the results I got working on the medical side."The location currently offers facials, massage and skin care treatments provided by Beilman and a small staff that includes two licensed cosmologists and a massage therapist, along with nails, pedicures and lashes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174961340.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"I think that is a big part of it," Beilman said. "Having a really great staff. And we have a small staff, which is nice, too, because it makes the environment very relaxing."It's nice and relaxing in here, it's never really busy or crazy," she added. "And I think that is what people want in a spa environment."They also provide hydrotherapy in the location, which she said compliments their other services."It really relaxes you," Beilman said. "It's not like being in a hot tub — it's more of a thermal message."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174983458.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>They also have steam showers on site."It's about bringing a quality spa to the Hays area," Schumacher said.&nbsp;"A lot of places you go and get a facial or massage or whatever it might be, you have to add on the cupping, or the hot stones, or whatever it may be, you have to add all these things on," Beilman said. "Versus here ... anything they need that is going to benefit them so they walk out of here feeling better will be included in the treatment."She said that customized treatment allows the clients to receive services that work for them."What works for Sally may not work for Sarah, because everyone's skin is different," Beilman said. "So that is why my major passion is skincare and skincare treatments. That is the driving force behind it."She said with her own location she is not locked into a particular product, but rather can do a skin analysis and use their services to create positive outcomes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632175001720.jpeg" alt="\" />
 <figcaption>\</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's fun to go pamper yourself, but it's also nice to get results," Beilman said.&nbsp;While the business was a longtime dream for the owners, it took the pandemic to make the spa reality."We kind of started joking about having this dream of opening something like this together," Schumacher said, while her and Beilman were stuck in a 14-day quarantine.During that time, she asked Beilman about a downtown Hays building that she might be interested in if it were to happen.She identified the Hill's building."So she went back to work, and I started making phone calls," Schumacher said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632175021974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ultimately, she would connect with the owner and he agreed to sell the building, one of the few empty locations available in downtown."It's kind of funny to think about now, Schumacher said. "I can only imagine getting that phone call from me."With a deed in hand and the realization that their dream could become a reality, they began working to revitalize the historic building, built in 1926."It was originally the first cash-and-carry grocery store when Hill built it," Schumacher said.She said their research indicated it remained a grocery for around 20 years, before becoming home to several cafes, and ultimately a screen printing shop, which had closed in recent years."It took a lot of digging to find the historical information on it," Schumacher said.During the remodel, the owners — along with their significant others — worked to create a modern space that would suit the needs of the business."They are truly the masterminds behind this," Schumacher said, "as well as our designer, Emily Knowles of Emily Knowles Design. She came up with the concept and made the space work for us."During the early stages of the remodel, the interior brick stood out, so they pushed Knowles to incorporate it into the design.It would also change the business identity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174903076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We had Emily redesign everything so we could keep the brick exposed, Schumacher said. "And we renamed ourselves because this wasn't the original name.""We got everything we wanted and it all fits perfectly,"&nbsp;Beilman said.Being a part of the downtown community is also a part of the business identity, and Schumacher said the response so far has been amazing."Being on the Bricks, we are a part of this really cool community of business owners and everybody has been so kind and so nice," she said. "It was an outpouring of kindness and positivity."The Brickhouse Day Spa is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.For more about the spa, visit their website <a href="http://www.brickhousedayspa.com">brickhousedayspa.com</a>They also maintain a presence on social media including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brickhousedayspa">Facebook</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632193480676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

New Hays Day Spa brings aesthetician services and more to downtown

U.S. crude prices reached six-week highs last week, topping $72 a barrel for only the third time in two months. Prices have now retreated somewhat. By lunchtime Monday, the near-month contract for West Texas Intermediate Crude on the Nymex was down 88 cents to $71.09 per barrel. Crude prices in the Sunflower State are also higher. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $62.25 per barrel, up two dollars from a week ago, up nearly five dollars from the first of the month, and up nearly $25 a barrel over prices at the first of the year. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 512 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase of ten oil rigs. The count in Texas was up four, Oklahoma was up three and New Mexico was up two rigs from last week.&nbsp; The Rig Count in Kansas was up three in the eastern half of the state at 12 active rigs. The count was unchanged in Western Kansas at 25. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway on two leases in Ellis County. Kansas regulators approved 39 new drilling permits last week. There were 24 in eastern Kansas and 15 west of Wichita, including three in Ellis County and one each in Russell and Stafford counties. That's 732 new drilling locations across Kansas so far this year. Operators completed four new wells in Ellis County and two in Barton County, out of 22 new well-completions in Western Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported nine new drilling locations in eastern Kansas. The Energy Information Administration said U.S. crude inventories dropped by nearly six-and-a-half-million barrels last week. At just over 417 million barrels, stockpiles are about seven percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude imports for the week through September 10th were down 48,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is more than 13% higher than the same period last year. The U.S. is currently importing an average of more than 5.8 million barrels of crude oil per day. Domestic crude-oil production increased by more than 100,000 barrels per day last week, to just over 10.1 million. That's also a slight improvement over the same week a year ago according to weekly government reports. The U.S. Energy Information Administration last week reported 5,713 drilled but uncompleted, or (DUC) wells across the United States last month. That's the lowest monthly tally since November 2017. EIA says the decline reflects more well completions and less new-well drilling activity. DUCs declined by 248 wells across the U.S. Most of the declines are in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico, but the counts dropped in each of the major shale regions tracked by the government. The biggest North American railroad merger in two decades takes a new turn. Kansas City Southern (KCS) now says it will reunite with Canadian Pacific Railway, and will spurn a larger merger offer from a larger rival, Canadian National. KCS said the deal with Canadian Pacific is worth roughly $27 billion. The move comes less than two weeks after U.S. regulators rejected a voting trust for the larger deal. The merger will create the only end-to-end, crude-by-rail network from Canada to Mexico. Construction is now scheduled to begin next year on the first new refinery to be built in the&nbsp;U.S. in nearly 50 years. The controversial Davis Refinery in Belfield, North Dakota faced several delays from regulators because it's planned just three miles from the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The CEO of the Meridian Energy Group says his company has entered into a binding construction contract with an engineering firm in Houston. July crude production in North Dakota was down 56,000-barrel-per-day, or nearly 5 percent, at just over 1 million barrels per day. The Department of Mineral Resources says the state's gas-capture statistic is also down for the month, as operators had to burn or vent 10% of the natural gas produced at their oil wells. That's up 2 percent from June.&nbsp;

By JOHN P. TRETBARU.S. crude prices reached six-week highs last week, topping $72 a barrel for only the third time in two months. Prices have now retreated somewhat. By lunchtime Monday, the near-month contract for West Texas Intermediate Crude on the Nymex was down 88 cents to $71.09 per barrel. Crude prices in the Sunflower State are also higher. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $62.25 per barrel, up two dollars from a week ago, up nearly five dollars from the first of the month, and up nearly $25 a barrel over prices at the first of the year. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 512 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase of ten oil rigs. The count in Texas was up four, Oklahoma was up three and New Mexico was up two rigs from last week.&nbsp; The Rig Count in Kansas was up three in the eastern half of the state at 12 active rigs. The count was unchanged in Western Kansas at 25. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway on two leases in Ellis County. Kansas regulators approved 39 new drilling permits last week. There were 24 in eastern Kansas and 15 west of Wichita, including three in Ellis County and one each in Russell and Stafford counties. That's 732 new drilling locations across Kansas so far this year. Operators completed four new wells in Ellis County and two in Barton County, out of 22 new well-completions in Western Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported nine new drilling locations in eastern Kansas. The Energy Information Administration said U.S. crude inventories dropped by nearly six-and-a-half-million barrels last week. At just over 417 million barrels, stockpiles are about seven percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude imports for the week through September 10th were down 48,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is more than 13% higher than the same period last year. The U.S. is currently importing an average of more than 5.8 million barrels of crude oil per day. Domestic crude-oil production increased by more than 100,000 barrels per day last week, to just over 10.1 million. That's also a slight improvement over the same week a year ago according to weekly government reports. The U.S. Energy Information Administration last week reported 5,713 drilled but uncompleted, or (DUC) wells across the United States last month. That's the lowest monthly tally since November 2017. EIA says the decline reflects more well completions and less new-well drilling activity. DUCs declined by 248 wells across the U.S. Most of the declines are in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico, but the counts dropped in each of the major shale regions tracked by the government. The biggest North American railroad merger in two decades takes a new turn. Kansas City Southern (KCS) now says it will reunite with Canadian Pacific Railway, and will spurn a larger merger offer from a larger rival, Canadian National. KCS said the deal with Canadian Pacific is worth roughly $27 billion. The move comes less than two weeks after U.S. regulators rejected a voting trust for the larger deal. The merger will create the only end-to-end, crude-by-rail network from Canada to Mexico. Construction is now scheduled to begin next year on the first new refinery to be built in the&nbsp;U.S. in nearly 50 years. The controversial Davis Refinery in Belfield, North Dakota faced several delays from regulators because it's planned just three miles from the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The CEO of the Meridian Energy Group says his company has entered into a binding construction contract with an engineering firm in Houston. July crude production in North Dakota was down 56,000-barrel-per-day, or nearly 5 percent, at just over 1 million barrels per day. The Department of Mineral Resources says the state's gas-capture statistic is also down for the month, as operators had to burn or vent 10% of the natural gas produced at their oil wells. That's up 2 percent from June.&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: High prices, huge railroad merger, new refinery

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation is partnering with the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education to host the Fly Kansas Air Tour from Thursday to Saturday.

The annual flying celebration promotes aviation and economic growth. Over 45 pilots have already registered to fly the Air Tour this year, visiting nine communities across Kansas during the three-day tour.

“Every Air Tour brings heightened enthusiasm as we celebrate the heartbeat of innovation that is so obvious across the aviation industry of Kansas,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation.

The tour focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Highlights for this year include opportunities for students to learn from pilots and see their aircraft up close, a tour through an aviation manufacturer, community events, samples of local food and an opportunity to view new hangars and airport development.

“The Air Tour is our chance to introduce a future generation of leaders to aviation and celebrate the amazing contributions Kansas has made and continues to make on the aviation industry,” said Lindsey Dreiling, President of Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education.

This year’s events take place at the local airports in Wellington, Fort Scott, Allen County and Lawrence on Thursday, Sept. 23; Clay Center, Phillipsburg and Salina on Sept. 24; and Concordia, concluding with a private event at Wichita on Sept. 25.

For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-fly-kansas-air-tour-tickets-160630027737?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Fly Kansas Air Tour webpage.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632149147495.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation is partnering with the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education to host the Fly Kansas Air Tour from Thursday to Saturday.The annual flying celebration promotes aviation and economic growth. Over 45 pilots have already registered to fly the Air Tour this year, visiting nine communities across Kansas during the three-day tour.“Every Air Tour brings heightened enthusiasm as we celebrate the heartbeat of innovation that is so obvious across the aviation industry of Kansas,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation.The tour focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Highlights for this year include opportunities for students to learn from pilots and see their aircraft up close, a tour through an aviation manufacturer, community events, samples of local food and an opportunity to view new hangars and airport development.“The Air Tour is our chance to introduce a future generation of leaders to aviation and celebrate the amazing contributions Kansas has made and continues to make on the aviation industry,” said Lindsey Dreiling, President of Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education.This year’s events take place at the local airports in Wellington, Fort Scott, Allen County and Lawrence on Thursday, Sept. 23; Clay Center, Phillipsburg and Salina on Sept. 24; and Concordia, concluding with a private event at Wichita on Sept. 25.For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-fly-kansas-air-tour-tickets-160630027737?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Fly Kansas Air Tour webpage.</a>

Fly Kansas Air Tour schedule includes NW Kan. stop

GOODLAND — The Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Executive Committee has a new president for the 2021-22 academic year. Ben Schears, President of Northwest Tech, began his term during the conference’s annual summer meeting in Garden City in July. 

"I've had the joy of working around the Jayhawk Conference for the entire duration of my career in some form or fashion and have no hesitation in saying we are in the top JUCO conference in the country," said Schears. "The success of the conference is largely due to the efforts of our past and present conference commissioners and colleges working together to create an environment where students can be successful in the classroom and competition."

As it’s more commonly known, the Jayhawk Conference itself has a long-standing and successful legacy of competition dating back to its founding in 1923. As the conference approaches its centennial anniversary, one of the areas where there has been incredible continuity and stability is in the role of the Conference Commissioner. To date, there have been only eight individuals who have served in this role, and since 2018 that has been Commissioner Carl Heinrich. 

“It has been an honor for me to serve the 21 schools of the KJCCC,” said Heinrich. “The success of the conference over the years has been due to the presidential leadership of all our schools. The opportunity for our student athletes to get a quality education and an opportunity to continue in sports has been what the KJCCC is about.”&nbsp;

Some might say the 2020-21 year was one for the record books - both for having successfully completed competition during a global pandemic, but also for the visibility of the conference on the national stage. 

“Surviving COVID last year and the conference winning six national championships is a tribute to the administration, coaches, and players,” said Heinrich. “We are very proud of them.”&nbsp;

Looking ahead to the conference's goals for the coming year, Schears highlighted a few areas of focus, not the least of which was continuing to deal with the implications of the pandemic. 

"Last year was a significant challenge, but our coaches, athletes and referees did what needed to be done," said Schears. "As we head into this year, although we are still dealing with COVID-19, we have several new tools in the arsenal, including lessons learned, new opportunities for vaccinations, and the commitment from our colleges to reach the finish line successfully."&nbsp;

With conference competition already underway in several program, Schears and Heinrich are both looking forward to a strong year for the conference. 

“I am excited to work with Ben this year as he serves as president of the KJCCC Executive Committee,” said Heinrich. “He brings in a wealth of experience that will continue to allow our conference athletes and programs to grow and remain consistent.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632142436515.png" alt="Ben Schears" />
 <figcaption>Ben Schears</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseGOODLAND — The Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Executive Committee has a new president for the 2021-22 academic year. Ben Schears, President of Northwest Tech, began his term during the conference’s annual summer meeting in Garden City in July. "I've had the joy of working around the Jayhawk Conference for the entire duration of my career in some form or fashion and have no hesitation in saying we are in the top JUCO conference in the country," said Schears. "The success of the conference is largely due to the efforts of our past and present conference commissioners and colleges working together to create an environment where students can be successful in the classroom and competition."As it’s more commonly known, the Jayhawk Conference itself has a long-standing and successful legacy of competition dating back to its founding in 1923. As the conference approaches its centennial anniversary, one of the areas where there has been incredible continuity and stability is in the role of the Conference Commissioner. To date, there have been only eight individuals who have served in this role, and since 2018 that has been Commissioner Carl Heinrich. “It has been an honor for me to serve the 21 schools of the KJCCC,” said Heinrich. “The success of the conference over the years has been due to the presidential leadership of all our schools. The opportunity for our student athletes to get a quality education and an opportunity to continue in sports has been what the KJCCC is about.”&nbsp;Some might say the 2020-21 year was one for the record books - both for having successfully completed competition during a global pandemic, but also for the visibility of the conference on the national stage. “Surviving COVID last year and the conference winning six national championships is a tribute to the administration, coaches, and players,” said Heinrich. “We are very proud of them.”&nbsp;Looking ahead to the conference's goals for the coming year, Schears highlighted a few areas of focus, not the least of which was continuing to deal with the implications of the pandemic. "Last year was a significant challenge, but our coaches, athletes and referees did what needed to be done," said Schears. "As we head into this year, although we are still dealing with COVID-19, we have several new tools in the arsenal, including lessons learned, new opportunities for vaccinations, and the commitment from our colleges to reach the finish line successfully."&nbsp;With conference competition already underway in several program, Schears and Heinrich are both looking forward to a strong year for the conference. “I am excited to work with Ben this year as he serves as president of the KJCCC Executive Committee,” said Heinrich. “He brings in a wealth of experience that will continue to allow our conference athletes and programs to grow and remain consistent.”

Northwest Tech president to lead Jayhawk Conference

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Armyworms are so-called because they can march across fields or landscapes in large groups. That seems to be happening this year as there are reports of armyworms feeding on tilled volunteer wheat fields, to the point they have taken out a lot of the volunteer wheat, even turning it white in some fields.

That brings up the question from farmers: Is this something I should be worried about, and possibly spray an insecticide for? The short answer is no.&nbsp;

I visited with J.P. Michaud, entomologist at the Ag Research Center in Hays. Most fall armyworms should be nearing the end of their last generation this year, meaning once they reach maturity, they will pupate and then emerge as a moth. Then, due to shorter day length (winter coming), they will pack-up and head south for the winter.&nbsp;

However, this could take a few more weeks, possibly more. Primarily, this is due to the sporadic hatching of the last generation of armyworms. The first generation is pretty synchronized, but after that, the following generations develop asynchronously, meaning some larvae are still small while others have finished feeding.&nbsp;

Insecticide seed treatments do not work well against armyworms and other lepidopteran larvae.

The bottom line is early-planted wheat is at the greatest risk. Early-planted fields should be 
inspected frequently during the first few weeks following emergence. Unless you are planting early for some grazing, it is preferable in our area to plant towards the end of September and into early October. Historically, yield does not decline unless planting occurs after the second week of October.

Early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, including an increased chance of insect- or mite-transmitted viral diseases, or decreased emergence due to high temperatures. Ideally, growers should consider planting within the optimum window, but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers might also consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.&nbsp;

Young fall armyworms are ½ to 3/4 inch long, and are 1 ½ inches long at maturity. Body color may vary from green to almost black, but light stripes will be visible along the length of the body. Look for a whitish inverted "Y" on the face. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to develop from egg to pupa. The adult is a moth.

Another question that may arise is, do I still need to spray or till under the volunteer wheat that had heavy armyworm feeding? I would err on the side of caution and still do so, as I doubt that every single volunteer wheat plant is completely dead. Also, please keep in mind that all volunteer wheat should be killed within a mile of any new planting, ideally two weeks beforehand.&nbsp;

If you have any questions give us a call or email--Stacy Campbell 785-628-9430, <a href="mailto:scampbel@ksu.edu">scampbel@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; J.P. Michaud 785-625-3425, <a href="mailto:jpmi@ksu.edu">jpmi@ksu.edu</a> &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631724155056.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictArmyworms are so-called because they can march across fields or landscapes in large groups. That seems to be happening this year as there are reports of armyworms feeding on tilled volunteer wheat fields, to the point they have taken out a lot of the volunteer wheat, even turning it white in some fields.That brings up the question from farmers: Is this something I should be worried about, and possibly spray an insecticide for? The short answer is no.&nbsp;I visited with J.P. Michaud, entomologist at the Ag Research Center in Hays. Most fall armyworms should be nearing the end of their last generation this year, meaning once they reach maturity, they will pupate and then emerge as a moth. Then, due to shorter day length (winter coming), they will pack-up and head south for the winter.&nbsp;However, this could take a few more weeks, possibly more. Primarily, this is due to the sporadic hatching of the last generation of armyworms. The first generation is pretty synchronized, but after that, the following generations develop asynchronously, meaning some larvae are still small while others have finished feeding.&nbsp;Insecticide seed treatments do not work well against armyworms and other lepidopteran larvae.The bottom line is early-planted wheat is at the greatest risk. Early-planted fields should be 
inspected frequently during the first few weeks following emergence. Unless you are planting early for some grazing, it is preferable in our area to plant towards the end of September and into early October. Historically, yield does not decline unless planting occurs after the second week of October.Early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, including an increased chance of insect- or mite-transmitted viral diseases, or decreased emergence due to high temperatures. Ideally, growers should consider planting within the optimum window, but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers might also consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.&nbsp;Young fall armyworms are ½ to 3/4 inch long, and are 1 ½ inches long at maturity. Body color may vary from green to almost black, but light stripes will be visible along the length of the body. Look for a whitish inverted "Y" on the face. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to develop from egg to pupa. The adult is a moth.Another question that may arise is, do I still need to spray or till under the volunteer wheat that had heavy armyworm feeding? I would err on the side of caution and still do so, as I doubt that every single volunteer wheat plant is completely dead. Also, please keep in mind that all volunteer wheat should be killed within a mile of any new planting, ideally two weeks beforehand.&nbsp;If you have any questions give us a call or email--Stacy Campbell 785-628-9430, <a href="mailto:scampbel@ksu.edu">scampbel@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; J.P. Michaud 785-625-3425, <a href="mailto:jpmi@ksu.edu">jpmi@ksu.edu</a> &nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Fall armyworms are abundant in farmer’s fields 


WICHITA — 
The Kapaun Family and the Diocese of Wichita are planning the transport of Father Emil Kapaun’s remains to Wichita in just a few days.

Following a send-off Mass at the Cathedral in Honolulu, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, September 25, 2021. 

A procession will depart from the airport and Father Kapaun will arrive home at St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen on September 26 for a private homecoming and observance.&nbsp;

WICHITA — 
The Kapaun Family and the Diocese of Wichita are planning the transport of Father Emil Kapaun’s remains to Wichita in just a few days.Following a send-off Mass at the Cathedral in Honolulu, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, September 25, 2021. A procession will depart from the airport and Father Kapaun will arrive home at St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen on September 26 for a private homecoming and observance.&nbsp;From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman Arena on September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 p.m. On Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Following the Mass of Christian Burial at Hartman Arena, Father Kapaun's remains will process from Veterans Memorial Park (339 Veterans Memorial Pkwy) by way of horse-drawn caisson from&nbsp;1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.