WICHITA — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will welcome 125 new U.S. citizens Friday&nbsp;at Wichita State University.&nbsp;U.S. Bankruptcy District&nbsp;Judge Eric F. Melgren&nbsp;will preside, and&nbsp;a clerk of the court will administer the oath of allegiance.

&nbsp;The citizenship candidates originate from 35 countries: Afghanistan, Belarus, Bolivia, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Congo (Kinshasa), Cuba, El Salvador, Eritrea,
Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Kazakhstan, Kenya,
Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru,&nbsp;Philippines, Russia, Somalia, South Africa,
Sudan, Thailand, Ukraine, United Kingdom and Vietnam.

The citizenship candidates live in Alstead, Andover, Arkansas City, Bel Aire, Colby, Copeland,&nbsp;Dodge City, Douglass, Garden City, Hays, Holcomb, Independence, Larned, Liberal, McConnell Air Force Base, Montezuma, Park City, Parsons, Salina, Tipton, Ulysses, Valley Center, Wichita and Winfield.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629927322321.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USCISWICHITA — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will welcome 125 new U.S. citizens Friday&nbsp;at Wichita State University.&nbsp;U.S. Bankruptcy District&nbsp;Judge Eric F. Melgren&nbsp;will preside, and&nbsp;a clerk of the court will administer the oath of allegiance.&nbsp;The citizenship candidates originate from 35 countries: Afghanistan, Belarus, Bolivia, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Congo (Kinshasa), Cuba, El Salvador, Eritrea,
Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Kazakhstan, Kenya,
Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru,&nbsp;Philippines, Russia, Somalia, South Africa,
Sudan, Thailand, Ukraine, United Kingdom and Vietnam.The citizenship candidates live in Alstead, Andover, Arkansas City, Bel Aire, Colby, Copeland,&nbsp;Dodge City, Douglass, Garden City, Hays, Holcomb, Independence, Larned, Liberal, McConnell Air Force Base, Montezuma, Park City, Parsons, Salina, Tipton, Ulysses, Valley Center, Wichita and Winfield.

Hays, Colby residents among those becoming new U.S. citizens

Three-day weather outlook

We are seeing numerous reports of fall armyworms especially in the southeast and south-central Kansas. &nbsp;Though we have had fall armyworm outbreaks in the past, this is earlier than usual.

Armyworms are so-called because they invade fields or landscapes as large groups and can cause a lawn to turn brown seemingly overnight. Young worms are ½ to 3/4 inch long. Mature ones are 1 ½ inch long. 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 top of the black head. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to progress from egg to pupa. The adult is a moth. Armyworm damage can resemble drought damage but close inspection of the turf will reveal the larvae. Look for active feeding during early morning or evening hours or on cloudy days. Larvae feed on foliage and the resulting dehydration causes to turf to quickly brown. Normally, armyworm damage does not kill established turf but may if populations are high enough. Thick infestations of fall armyworms can damage turfgrass crowns which will kill turf. Acephate (Orthene, Acephate), spinosad (Conserve; Natural Guard Spinosad, Captain Jack's Deadbug Brew; Monterey Garden Insect Spray), and other insecticides are effective caterpillar killers. Treat in the late afternoon, when the caterpillars are likely to begin feeding. Do not mow for 3 days after treatment. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629725136273.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>We are seeing numerous reports of fall armyworms especially in the southeast and south-central Kansas. &nbsp;Though we have had fall armyworm outbreaks in the past, this is earlier than usual.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Armyworms are so-called because they invade fields or landscapes as large groups and can cause a lawn to turn brown seemingly overnight. Young worms are ½ to 3/4 inch long. Mature ones are 1 ½ inch long. 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 top of the black head. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to progress from egg to pupa. The adult is a moth. Armyworm damage can resemble drought damage but close inspection of the turf will reveal the larvae. Look for active feeding during early morning or evening hours or on cloudy days. Larvae feed on foliage and the resulting dehydration causes to turf to quickly brown. Normally, armyworm damage does not kill established turf but may if populations are high enough. Thick infestations of fall armyworms can damage turfgrass crowns which will kill turf. Acephate (Orthene, Acephate), spinosad (Conserve; Natural Guard Spinosad, Captain Jack's Deadbug Brew; Monterey Garden Insect Spray), and other insecticides are effective caterpillar killers. Treat in the late afternoon, when the caterpillars are likely to begin feeding. Do not mow for 3 days after treatment. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Fall armyworms on turf

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Ellis County ranks in the top half — No. 47 — of the state's 105 counties for vaccination rates.

According to the KDHE, as of Wednesday, the vaccination rate in Ellis County was 45 percent.

However, Ellis County ranks in the bottom half in terms of cases — No. 55.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f8d23be-8617-406a-b060-c1c358d43a00">RELATED:&nbsp;HaysMed chief medical officer discusses state of COVID spike</a>

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

Russell County is near the bottom of the rankings at No. 99, with just a 39 percent vaccination rate.

Several northwest Kansas counties, including Trego, Thomas, Sherman and Sheridan, were ranked among the lowest vaccination rates in the state.

KDHE will update the vaccination information regularly. Three metrics are reported and ranked across each county:

• Full series vaccination rate of eligible population (12+ year olds) • Seven-day daily average number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people • Seven-day daily average number of COVID-19 tests administered per 100,000 people.

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Ellis County ranks in the top half — No. 47 — of the state's 105 counties for vaccination rates.According to the KDHE, as of Wednesday, the vaccination rate in Ellis County was 45 percent.However, Ellis County ranks in the bottom half in terms of cases — No. 55.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f8d23be-8617-406a-b060-c1c358d43a00">RELATED:&nbsp;HaysMed chief medical officer discusses state of COVID spike</a><a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Russell County is near the bottom of the rankings at No. 99, with just a 39 percent vaccination rate.Several northwest Kansas counties, including Trego, Thomas, Sherman and Sheridan, were ranked among the lowest vaccination rates in the state.KDHE will update the vaccination information regularly. Three metrics are reported and ranked across each county:• Full series vaccination rate of eligible population (12+ year olds) • Seven-day daily average number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people • Seven-day daily average number of COVID-19 tests administered per 100,000 people.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001277678.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001326973.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001348281.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001362892.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001376406.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001389487.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Several NW Kan. counties among 'least vaccinated' in state

By&nbsp;SHAWNA BETHELL Kansas Reflector

I remember the first time I saw a wind turbine.

I had just come driving out of a canyon in Utah and into an open valley. There stood three massive, languidly rotating harbingers of the future. Those were the early days of wind energy, and I found the mechanical structures not only fascinating but also artistic in their clean, white, elegant forms. Today, on our own western plains, turbines have become a ubiquitous part of the landscape, and in spite of controversies such as bird mortality and sound pollution, I’m proud of Kansas for being a leader in clean energy.

However, with those plentiful turbines comes the problem of what to do with hundreds of thousands of blades when they come out of commission. Made of fiber-reinforced polymer, the blades are neither biodegradable nor recyclable. Currently, the bulk of them either end up in landfills in states with enough space to take them, or they are incinerated. Both options have adverse environmental impacts.&nbsp;

However, efforts are being made to discover innovative ways to repurpose those turbine blades, and some of that innovation is happening in Kansas.

Through a National Science Foundation grant, Enel Green Power North America, based in Lenexa and operating the Smoky Hills I and II Wind Farm located in Lincoln County, and Re-Wind, an international organization seeking alternative ways to use decommissioned blades, are partnering to&nbsp;study repurposing blades for use as utility poles.

“The fiberglass, which is much like the hull of a boat, is very light and has amazing properties for strength,” says Russell Gentry,&nbsp;associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech and project leader for the studies.&nbsp;“But by nature it is difficult to separate the fibers from the resin, making it very hard to recycle.”

However, according to Gentry, the blade material can be cut and modestly reshaped, allowing for the retention of its structural viability.

A study at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.re-wind.info/">Re-Wind.info</a>&nbsp;further explains the life of a turbine blade is about 20 to 25 years before it is pulled from use. In that time, however, the durability of the fiberglass may only decrease by 10 to 20% from its original state, meaning there are second-life applications for which the material can be safely redesigned.

“Kansas is a hub of wind and renewable energy,” Gentry said. “I think that throughout the Midwest there will be a need, a demand, to connect that energy to the national grid.”

He sees the BladePole as a means to meet that need. He also explains that it is most cost effective to use the blades in the same region where they had their first life because the blades are up to 200 feet long, and long-distance transport would be extremely expensive.

“We know there is currently no silver bullet to solving these challenges,” said&nbsp;Beth Murphy, innovation analyst at Enel and project manager of the partnership with Re-Wind,&nbsp;“which is why we’re actively exploring several types of solutions for responsible handling of wind turbine blades.”

Murphy goes on to say that the state’s strong wind resource and available land enabled Enel Green Power to make significant investments in Kansas. The new&nbsp;technologies will allow the company to further invest in our sustainable economy.

With that in mind, Enel and Re-Wind are always looking for new ideas for the blades, and Gentry says that he recently met with a landowner in Lincoln county who had come up with some great ideas as to how repurposed turbine blades could be used in agriculture.

“There is a strong urge from the wind energy community to listen to their stakeholders,” Gentry said.

Within this collaboration, landowners and the state as a whole can benefit from a circular economy — one where a material’s second life has already been conceived and adapted by the time its first life ends.&nbsp;

Gentry is uncertain as to how long it will be before the BladePole might be put into circulation, because aside from structural viability, there are the complexities of risk assessments involved for carrying electrical lines. These must be completed before utility companies would be willing to sign on to using the technology, and rightly so.

However, information gathered from these studies will also be used for other Re-Wind projects, making Kansas a continued leader in the renewable energy industry and a committed participant in the move toward a sustainable, clean economy.

Through its opinion section, the Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.

Shawna Bethell is a freelance essayist/journalist covering the people and places of Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. Before returning home, she wrote for several publications in the southwestern United States.

The above opinion piece is republished with permission from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629981643531.jpeg" alt="Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Yulizza Henao-Barragon set up scanning equipment on decommissioned wind turbine blades in Lincoln county. (Re-Wind)" />
 <figcaption>Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Yulizza Henao-Barragon set up scanning equipment on decommissioned wind turbine blades in Lincoln county. (Re-Wind)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;SHAWNA BETHELL Kansas ReflectorI remember the first time I saw a wind turbine.I had just come driving out of a canyon in Utah and into an open valley. There stood three massive, languidly rotating harbingers of the future. Those were the early days of wind energy, and I found the mechanical structures not only fascinating but also artistic in their clean, white, elegant forms. Today, on our own western plains, turbines have become a ubiquitous part of the landscape, and in spite of controversies such as bird mortality and sound pollution, I’m proud of Kansas for being a leader in clean energy.However, with those plentiful turbines comes the problem of what to do with hundreds of thousands of blades when they come out of commission. Made of fiber-reinforced polymer, the blades are neither biodegradable nor recyclable. Currently, the bulk of them either end up in landfills in states with enough space to take them, or they are incinerated. Both options have adverse environmental impacts.&nbsp;However, efforts are being made to discover innovative ways to repurpose those turbine blades, and some of that innovation is happening in Kansas.Through a National Science Foundation grant, Enel Green Power North America, based in Lenexa and operating the Smoky Hills I and II Wind Farm located in Lincoln County, and Re-Wind, an international organization seeking alternative ways to use decommissioned blades, are partnering to&nbsp;study repurposing blades for use as utility poles.“The fiberglass, which is much like the hull of a boat, is very light and has amazing properties for strength,” says Russell Gentry,&nbsp;associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech and project leader for the studies.&nbsp;“But by nature it is difficult to separate the fibers from the resin, making it very hard to recycle.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629981859209.jpeg" alt="Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Chloe Kiernicki stand at the Smoky Hills Wind Farm in Lincoln County. (Re-Wind)" />
 <figcaption>Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Chloe Kiernicki stand at the Smoky Hills Wind Farm in Lincoln County. (Re-Wind)</figcaption>
 </figure>However, according to Gentry, the blade material can be cut and modestly reshaped, allowing for the retention of its structural viability.A study at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.re-wind.info/">Re-Wind.info</a>&nbsp;further explains the life of a turbine blade is about 20 to 25 years before it is pulled from use. In that time, however, the durability of the fiberglass may only decrease by 10 to 20% from its original state, meaning there are second-life applications for which the material can be safely redesigned.“Kansas is a hub of wind and renewable energy,” Gentry said. “I think that throughout the Midwest there will be a need, a demand, to connect that energy to the national grid.”He sees the BladePole as a means to meet that need. He also explains that it is most cost effective to use the blades in the same region where they had their first life because the blades are up to 200 feet long, and long-distance transport would be extremely expensive.“We know there is currently no silver bullet to solving these challenges,” said&nbsp;Beth Murphy, innovation analyst at Enel and project manager of the partnership with Re-Wind,&nbsp;“which is why we’re actively exploring several types of solutions for responsible handling of wind turbine blades.”Murphy goes on to say that the state’s strong wind resource and available land enabled Enel Green Power to make significant investments in Kansas. The new&nbsp;technologies will allow the company to further invest in our sustainable economy.With that in mind, Enel and Re-Wind are always looking for new ideas for the blades, and Gentry says that he recently met with a landowner in Lincoln county who had come up with some great ideas as to how repurposed turbine blades could be used in agriculture.“There is a strong urge from the wind energy community to listen to their stakeholders,” Gentry said.Within this collaboration, landowners and the state as a whole can benefit from a circular economy — one where a material’s second life has already been conceived and adapted by the time its first life ends.&nbsp;Gentry is uncertain as to how long it will be before the BladePole might be put into circulation, because aside from structural viability, there are the complexities of risk assessments involved for carrying electrical lines. These must be completed before utility companies would be willing to sign on to using the technology, and rightly so.However, information gathered from these studies will also be used for other Re-Wind projects, making Kansas a continued leader in the renewable energy industry and a committed participant in the move toward a sustainable, clean economy.Through its opinion section, the Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.Shawna Bethell is a freelance essayist/journalist covering the people and places of Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. Before returning home, she wrote for several publications in the southwestern United States.The above opinion piece is republished with permission from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>.

OPINION: Work to repurpose wind turbine blades spotlights KS as green econ. leader

The Hays Arts Council's Fall Art Walk is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, kicking off a flurry of activity this weekend in downtown Hays.

But while the annual event is sure to provide ample opportunities to explore and enjoy downtown, the anchor exhibition will showcase the works of Gordon Sherman in a retrospective of the well-known, award-winning artist who taught at Fort Hays State University for 23 years.

Last December, Sherman retired from FHSU and worked with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder on the exhibition until his death earlier this summer.

"We are really very proud and honored to be presenting this," Meder said. "It's a little bit bittersweet."

During his tenure at the university and beyond, his work was frequently recognized, she said.

"His work was exhibited nationally and internationally," Meder said. "If Gordon entered a show, it didn't matter if people knew who he was, or if it was in another country, he not only got in, he often got an award.

"There is just something unique about his work."

She said his pieces often challenge the audience to explore his pieces and his process, hence the show's name, "Mysterious Iconography."

"Gordon would use a lot of iconic images, or just icons," Meder said. "He wasn't always forthcoming about on it was, but at least you could have the conversation."

While Meder said Sherman worked with her on the exhibition until his death afterward his children stepped up and helped facilitate the show.

"We were expecting him to be part of this and being there," she said. "Fortunately, with the support of his two children who live — one in Texas, one in Oregon — and colleagues and friends, we are still able to carry this out."

While the exhibition will anchor the Fall Art Walk, it will also be available for viewing in the gallery until Oct. 8.

"If the art walk doesn't fit into your schedule, please come by and see that exhibition," Meder said.

While the core Art Walk will be in the regular hours and include many downtown businesses, Meder said there are several exhibitions outside of the core times for this event that allow participants to experience the full gamut of offerings that reach across Hays without sacrificing the downtown experience.

"When things are off of the beaten path a little bit, I encourage them to start with earlier hours, so people can go to those places before they settle into downtown," Meder said.

With exhibitions in downtown as well as around Hays, and with other community events scheduled for the weekend, she said it will be a good weekend for area residents to enjoy art as well as downtown Hays.

"We're really excited about it," Meder said. "We have a lot of amazing things lined up and just want to invite everyone out."

<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/fall-art-walk.">For more about the Fall Art Walk, including a printable schedule, visit haysartscouncil.org/fall-art-walk.</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hays-Arts-Council-137869202896983/">They also maintain a presence on social media, including Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629840168769.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Hays Arts Council's Fall Art Walk is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, kicking off a flurry of activity this weekend in downtown Hays.But while the annual event is sure to provide ample opportunities to explore and enjoy downtown, the anchor exhibition will showcase the works of Gordon Sherman in a retrospective of the well-known, award-winning artist who taught at Fort Hays State University for 23 years.Last December, Sherman retired from FHSU and worked with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder on the exhibition until his death earlier this summer."We are really very proud and honored to be presenting this," Meder said. "It's a little bit bittersweet."During his tenure at the university and beyond, his work was frequently recognized, she said."His work was exhibited nationally and internationally," Meder said. "If Gordon entered a show, it didn't matter if people knew who he was, or if it was in another country, he not only got in, he often got an award."There is just something unique about his work."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629840146165.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>She said his pieces often challenge the audience to explore his pieces and his process, hence the show's name, "Mysterious Iconography.""Gordon would use a lot of iconic images, or just icons," Meder said. "He wasn't always forthcoming about on it was, but at least you could have the conversation."While Meder said Sherman worked with her on the exhibition until his death afterward his children stepped up and helped facilitate the show."We were expecting him to be part of this and being there," she said. "Fortunately, with the support of his two children who live — one in Texas, one in Oregon — and colleagues and friends, we are still able to carry this out."While the exhibition will anchor the Fall Art Walk, it will also be available for viewing in the gallery until Oct. 8.<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council prepares for Fall Art Walk" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=94cje-10c39d9-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>"If the art walk doesn't fit into your schedule, please come by and see that exhibition," Meder said.While the core Art Walk will be in the regular hours and include many downtown businesses, Meder said there are several exhibitions outside of the core times for this event that allow participants to experience the full gamut of offerings that reach across Hays without sacrificing the downtown experience.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629842626719.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"When things are off of the beaten path a little bit, I encourage them to start with earlier hours, so people can go to those places before they settle into downtown," Meder said.With exhibitions in downtown as well as around Hays, and with other community events scheduled for the weekend, she said it will be a good weekend for area residents to enjoy art as well as downtown Hays."We're really excited about it," Meder said. "We have a lot of amazing things lined up and just want to invite everyone out."<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/fall-art-walk.">For more about the Fall Art Walk, including a printable schedule, visit haysartscouncil.org/fall-art-walk.</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hays-Arts-Council-137869202896983/">They also maintain a presence on social media, including Facebook.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629840188478.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙Fall Art Walk to kick off busy weekend in downtown Hays

On the sunny morning of August 20, the Tiger community came together to celebrate Fort Hays State University’s new, stunning Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design and to commemorate its namesakes, Bob and Pat Schmidt.&nbsp;

Bob and Pat&nbsp;enjoyed nearly 69 years of married life together before Pat passed away in 2015 and Bob in 2017. The couple&nbsp;was known for their love of FHSU and their philanthropic support. With a generous $2.5 million gift, the Schmidt Foundation has carried on Bob and Pat's legacy and love for education, the arts, and Fort Hays State by naming a building with which the couple would have been enamored.&nbsp;

The Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design&nbsp;provides lab spaces for graphic design, interior design, drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, art education, art history, and photography. The facility also offers departmental office space, a multi-purpose lab, a traditional classroom, woodshop, graduate studios, commons area, and a ceramics kiln yard.

At the dedication ceremony, Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation, remarked,&nbsp;"If Bob and Pat were here, they would be grinning ear to ear to see this facility and the talented students who walk these halls – just grinning to see how this incredible space has grown from a vision to the beauty that you see around us today."

Thomas Giebler, a graduate student in FHSU's Department of Art and Design, reminisced about the struggles of being an art student on the first floor of Rarick Hall prior to the Schmidt Foundation Center opening its doors in the fall of 2019. Giebler expressed his immense gratitude to the Schmidt Foundation for the new state-of-the-art building and the various amenities that he and his fellow students are able to utilize.&nbsp;

"We've&nbsp;always had incredible design programs and curriculums," he said, "and now we finally have a building that reflects that caliber."

Kurt David, a Schmidt Foundation Trustee, followed Thomas at the podium.

"I can tell you that Pat would be so pleased to know that her and Bob's legacy is now allowing future generations like yourselves to learn the arts, to experience them and to express yourselves through art at Fort Hays State University," David said. "It would bring terrific joy and pride to her."

FHSU President, Tisa Mason, thanked the Schmidt Foundation for its continued generosity and support. Thanks to Bob and Pat Schmidt, the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design will continue to be a home for art students for many, many years to come.

The joyful ceremony ended with Shorman presenting President Mason with a check that will fund five full-ride scholarships for the next round of Schmidt Foundation Scholars at Fort Hays State University. To learn more about the Schmidt Foundation Scholarship, who is eligible, and how to apply, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtODniJTZppyV1MwLlbR4ElXY3TkmnlrWEwGUVLdMYQs5jab6KalGzNpypXYDgTUF8bPU-2FyvJyKAu-2Fk928mEpfTE-3DS3Sb_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemxyp1fESZv1oqadG79l-2B8Uzl72u8jFMlBPCACWUkeXccmD8Aown4XKnnUKAs8iibQYKShs4zay5gf-2FkjdX-2F5u8K-2Fy-2ByObxEypc15jAGCR4dfEyXvO697etKmmx7Nx-2FHlLNQ5eIJPqHjNtJxxpXrB-2BkZ0G9C4KOB47vKGVNP-2Bv4GqCwTQ7O958UuJxRWqZyfuSFZ3KqI0NzlyT378WzHDpFldd-2BQeluWoOyYiPVRgluseIM5zQhuU-2FtEccm1U9R1nri7mMosW5MMUFwoPGYz-2BXLA-3D-3D">https://fhsu.edu/admissions/scholarships/schmidtfoundation</a>.

Learn how you can support the students and programs within FHSU's new Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design by contacting the FHSU Foundation at 785-628-5620 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>. To learn more about the FHSU Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDSAKvxVcchtfV1543l0KpmzJDxcEWX-2BLHEpBU8vuQfgZhuk_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemxyp1fESZv1oqadG79l-2B8Uzl72u8jFMlBPCACWUkeXccmD8Aown4XKnnUKAs8iibQYKShs4zay5gf-2FkjdX-2F5u8KQcWzsZwMMpToMk-2BUMyj5mZGGtsKmJpDw2ymQBM6WIrv-2FuqsLpxSTlQS7MKlVqQZpVTtWMqrXyYTvVX1DYGJ-2BRzE0Wm94D4efmyiFm6Jm4R7KtLkBVz1gcQAzmO3ragvDkngQzp6YPf3Md3-2BJ5Xf5qx0Ldw8WBg5ZfIyd7g4lLauQvryZNWon-2Bd38vVSb9Uxg-3D-3D">https://foundation.fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629923462402.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsOn the sunny morning of August 20, the Tiger community came together to celebrate Fort Hays State University’s new, stunning Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design and to commemorate its namesakes, Bob and Pat Schmidt.&nbsp;Bob and Pat&nbsp;enjoyed nearly 69 years of married life together before Pat passed away in 2015 and Bob in 2017. The couple&nbsp;was known for their love of FHSU and their philanthropic support. With a generous $2.5 million gift, the Schmidt Foundation has carried on Bob and Pat's legacy and love for education, the arts, and Fort Hays State by naming a building with which the couple would have been enamored.&nbsp;The Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design&nbsp;provides lab spaces for graphic design, interior design, drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, art education, art history, and photography. The facility also offers departmental office space, a multi-purpose lab, a traditional classroom, woodshop, graduate studios, commons area, and a ceramics kiln yard.At the dedication ceremony, Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation, remarked,&nbsp;"If Bob and Pat were here, they would be grinning ear to ear to see this facility and the talented students who walk these halls – just grinning to see how this incredible space has grown from a vision to the beauty that you see around us today."Thomas Giebler, a graduate student in FHSU's Department of Art and Design, reminisced about the struggles of being an art student on the first floor of Rarick Hall prior to the Schmidt Foundation Center opening its doors in the fall of 2019. Giebler expressed his immense gratitude to the Schmidt Foundation for the new state-of-the-art building and the various amenities that he and his fellow students are able to utilize.&nbsp;"We've&nbsp;always had incredible design programs and curriculums," he said, "and now we finally have a building that reflects that caliber."Kurt David, a Schmidt Foundation Trustee, followed Thomas at the podium."I can tell you that Pat would be so pleased to know that her and Bob's legacy is now allowing future generations like yourselves to learn the arts, to experience them and to express yourselves through art at Fort Hays State University," David said. "It would bring terrific joy and pride to her."FHSU President, Tisa Mason, thanked the Schmidt Foundation for its continued generosity and support. Thanks to Bob and Pat Schmidt, the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design will continue to be a home for art students for many, many years to come.The joyful ceremony ended with Shorman presenting President Mason with a check that will fund five full-ride scholarships for the next round of Schmidt Foundation Scholars at Fort Hays State University. To learn more about the Schmidt Foundation Scholarship, who is eligible, and how to apply, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtODniJTZppyV1MwLlbR4ElXY3TkmnlrWEwGUVLdMYQs5jab6KalGzNpypXYDgTUF8bPU-2FyvJyKAu-2Fk928mEpfTE-3DS3Sb_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemxyp1fESZv1oqadG79l-2B8Uzl72u8jFMlBPCACWUkeXccmD8Aown4XKnnUKAs8iibQYKShs4zay5gf-2FkjdX-2F5u8K-2Fy-2ByObxEypc15jAGCR4dfEyXvO697etKmmx7Nx-2FHlLNQ5eIJPqHjNtJxxpXrB-2BkZ0G9C4KOB47vKGVNP-2Bv4GqCwTQ7O958UuJxRWqZyfuSFZ3KqI0NzlyT378WzHDpFldd-2BQeluWoOyYiPVRgluseIM5zQhuU-2FtEccm1U9R1nri7mMosW5MMUFwoPGYz-2BXLA-3D-3D">https://fhsu.edu/admissions/scholarships/schmidtfoundation</a>.Learn how you can support the students and programs within FHSU's new Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design by contacting the FHSU Foundation at 785-628-5620 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>. To learn more about the FHSU Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDSAKvxVcchtfV1543l0KpmzJDxcEWX-2BLHEpBU8vuQfgZhuk_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemxyp1fESZv1oqadG79l-2B8Uzl72u8jFMlBPCACWUkeXccmD8Aown4XKnnUKAs8iibQYKShs4zay5gf-2FkjdX-2F5u8KQcWzsZwMMpToMk-2BUMyj5mZGGtsKmJpDw2ymQBM6WIrv-2FuqsLpxSTlQS7MKlVqQZpVTtWMqrXyYTvVX1DYGJ-2BRzE0Wm94D4efmyiFm6Jm4R7KtLkBVz1gcQAzmO3ragvDkngQzp6YPf3Md3-2BJ5Xf5qx0Ldw8WBg5ZfIyd7g4lLauQvryZNWon-2Bd38vVSb9Uxg-3D-3D">https://foundation.fhsu.edu</a>.

FHSU dedicates Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design

After skipping 2020, Rockalooa will return to Municipal Park in Hays from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, capping off a busy weekend for downtown.

This year's free and family-friendly event will be the seventh Rockalooa, but somewhat abbreviated than previous years, said organizer Matt Isley.

"It's a smaller event this year," he said. "In 2018 and 2019, we had two stages running all day with lots of vendors through Municipal Park. This year, (we're) kind of just easing back into it."

"It's right after Brews on the Bricks, so check out Brews on the Bricks, and right after that, walk on down to the park."

While this year's event might be shorter than previous iterations, it will still feature a mix of local and regional bands performing an eclectic mix of musical styles.

"We want to have a free, accessible event, and hopefully, a lot of people can make it out," he said.

Kicking off the night will be Hays local Jordan Rome, performing alternative county, he said.

Headlight Rivals, a rock group from Manhattan, will perform next.

Another local band, Company 11, will then take the stage to perform alternative rock.

Isley's band Dangerously Biased is also slated to perform, followed by Lincoln, Neb.-based The Fey.

"That's going to be our sort of change-it-up band," Isley said. "It's kind of a fusion, R&amp;B, blues, rock kind of band."

Wrapping up the evening, another local band — Miles On End — is set to perform.

"I like to stagger them, local, regional, local regional," Isley said.

<a href="https://rockhays.com/">For more information about the event, visit Rockhays.com</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1911478119008816">or the Rockalooa Facebook page.</a>

"Rockhays.com is the main place. You will find everything," Isley said. "We have the lineup, all the information.&nbsp; ... Also on there you are there are links to information about the bands."

<div><iframe title="Rockalooa returns for 2021" 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=upx5k-10c3a02-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><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629918821586.jpeg" alt="Rockalooa 2019" />
 <figcaption>Rockalooa 2019</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAfter skipping 2020, Rockalooa will return to Municipal Park in Hays from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, capping off a busy weekend for downtown.This year's free and family-friendly event will be the seventh Rockalooa, but somewhat abbreviated than previous years, said organizer Matt Isley."It's a smaller event this year," he said. "In 2018 and 2019, we had two stages running all day with lots of vendors through Municipal Park. This year, (we're) kind of just easing back into it.""It's right after Brews on the Bricks, so check out Brews on the Bricks, and right after that, walk on down to the park."While this year's event might be shorter than previous iterations, it will still feature a mix of local and regional bands performing an eclectic mix of musical styles."We want to have a free, accessible event, and hopefully, a lot of people can make it out," he said.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Frockalooa%2Fposts%2F4162129937217131&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="411" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Kicking off the night will be Hays local Jordan Rome, performing alternative county, he said.Headlight Rivals, a rock group from Manhattan, will perform next.Another local band, Company 11, will then take the stage to perform alternative rock.Isley's band Dangerously Biased is also slated to perform, followed by Lincoln, Neb.-based The Fey."That's going to be our sort of change-it-up band," Isley said. "It's kind of a fusion, R&amp;B, blues, rock kind of band."Wrapping up the evening, another local band — Miles On End — is set to perform."I like to stagger them, local, regional, local regional," Isley said.<a href="https://rockhays.com/">For more information about the event, visit Rockhays.com</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1911478119008816">or the Rockalooa Facebook page.</a>"Rockhays.com is the main place. You will find everything," Isley said. "We have the lineup, all the information.&nbsp; ... Also on there you are there are links to information about the bands."

🎙Rockalooa returns to Hays with 'lite' event Saturday

TOPEKA - Residents and businesses of Kansas counties with property damage resulting from flooding May 15-16, 2021, have until Friday, Aug. 27, to apply for disaster assistance through the Small Business Administration (SBA). The deadline to apply for economic injury is March 28, 2022.

Gov. Laura Kelly requested SBA loan assistance June 25 for residents and businesses in Ellis, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Rooks, Russell and Smith counties.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3e1b3b1c-d9bf-45b9-b8a3-9a126510b232">RELATED: Natoma still recovering after May flood, will not qualify for FEMA relief</a>

Applications may be submitted through the SBA Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center, Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Eastern Time.&nbsp;<a href="mailto:FOCWAssistance@sba.gov" target="_blank">FOCWAssistance@sba.gov</a>; (800) 659-2955.&nbsp;Applicants may also apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call (800) 877-8339.

Customer service representatives will be available to business owners and individuals to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application.

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.&nbsp;The deadline for EIDL applications is April 22, 2022.

Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Interest rates can be as low as 2.88 percent for businesses, 2 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 1.625 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629755216086.png" alt="Natoma flooding on May 16. (Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Transportation)" />
 <figcaption>Natoma flooding on May 16. (Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Transportation)</figcaption>
 </figure>SBA KansasTOPEKA - Residents and businesses of Kansas counties with property damage resulting from flooding May 15-16, 2021, have until Friday, Aug. 27, to apply for disaster assistance through the Small Business Administration (SBA). The deadline to apply for economic injury is March 28, 2022.Gov. Laura Kelly requested SBA loan assistance June 25 for residents and businesses in Ellis, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Rooks, Russell and Smith counties.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3e1b3b1c-d9bf-45b9-b8a3-9a126510b232">RELATED: Natoma still recovering after May flood, will not qualify for FEMA relief</a>Applications may be submitted through the SBA Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center, Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Eastern Time.&nbsp;<a href="mailto:FOCWAssistance@sba.gov" target="_blank">FOCWAssistance@sba.gov</a>; (800) 659-2955.&nbsp;Applicants may also apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call (800) 877-8339.Customer service representatives will be available to business owners and individuals to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application.Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.&nbsp;The deadline for EIDL applications is April 22, 2022.Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.Interest rates can be as low as 2.88 percent for businesses, 2 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 1.625 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Deadline for SBA loan assist for May flooding is Friday; Ellis County included

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

By the time this Heart of the Tiger column is published, we will have welcomed our faculty, staff, and students back to campus. It is my pleasure to introduce to the community the newest members of our senior leadership team: Dr. Angela Pool-Funai, dean of the Graduate School, and Dr. Dan Blankenship, interim dean of the College of College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS).

Angela, a native of Houston, Texas, relocated to Hays from the high desert of southern Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park, by the way, is one of her favorite locales on the planet. I am adding that to my travel wish list.&nbsp;

Angela is a nearly empty-nester mom of five boys. She shared with me that she has gone from feeding an army to needing to relearn how to grocery shop for much smaller portions.&nbsp;

Angela and I share a love for boxing. Her other hobbies, I learned, are much more ambitious than mine. She is restoring a 1988 Ford Thunderbird that she affectionately refers to as her midlife crisis project. “I like working with my hands,” she said. “There are few things more gratifying to me than repairing something myself.”&nbsp;

Angela loves the outdoors. She can be seen biking around Ellis and enjoys taking her canoe out to explore the lakes and reservoirs in the area. She says that spending time on the water helps her decompress both mentally and physically.

A fun story Angela shared with me is that her first book was on ethics in fiscal administration (managing public resources in an ethical manner). The best compliment she received came from a student who told her that he expected to hate the book. Instead, he not only enjoyed reading it, he asked her to autograph his copy.

Angela comes from a non-traditional academic background, in that she had many years of experience as a staff member before joining the faculty. The role of Graduate School Dean connects both paths of her career by allowing her to work across disciplines and with all areas of the university. I loved and appreciated this about her background as well as her positive, creative, high energy.

Look for Angela at a Tiger football game as she is “pumped” for our first home game – as am I! She is also especially excited about a new virtual Lunch &amp; Learn series that the Graduate School is launching to stay engaged with all of our graduate students, both on campus and online. I love this.

“The people I have met at FHSU made me feel at home before I even stepped foot on campus. I'm thrilled to be part of Tiger Nation!” Angela shared. We are excited about her talents and very optimistic how her efforts will benefit our students and our university.

When long-standing and beloved dean, Paul Faber, retired after 38 years of dedicated service to FHSU, Dr. Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, wisely decided to appoint an interim dean of the college for one year. Dr. Blankenship was a perfect match to fill that role. He&nbsp; serves a special niche in higher education, providing strategic leadership for universities wanting to keep an institution moving forward while taking a more thoughtful approach in transitioning leadership.

Dan came to Fort Hays State after serving for three years at Fort Valley State University in Georgia as dean of the College of Agriculture, then as vice provost for Academic Affairs and Director of Graduate Studies. He is very talented in keeping a university moving forward while creating processes for a successful transition for the leader selected to follow him. I feel very fortunate to have him on our team this year.&nbsp;

Fun facts about Dan include that he is a licensed pilot (for about 20 years), has flown various aircraft, and currently owns a Mooney aircraft.&nbsp;

Dan’s academic credentials include achieving faculty rank of professor of biology as well as earning tenure three times at three different institutions.&nbsp; He has been involved in liberal arts education most of his academic career and has delivered a keynote address to the faculty of Beijing Normal University in China and published in proceedings in Hong Kong, for example, on the application of a liberal arts education.&nbsp;

What I really love about Dan is that he is very committed to student access and success. He has an academic background as a faculty member and 20-plus years in administration, demonstrating that commitment through retention and graduation initiatives.

I asked Dan about his hopes for this academic year. “I’d like to see that the CAHSS becomes known for its initiative, creativity, and innovation – leading to better access by students to our programs and to be able to highlight the strengths of our programs,” he said. “I also would like us to find ways to better influence thought processes and thinking skills to help our constituents and students more critically analyze the world around us.”

I am so excited to welcome our newest senior leaders, Angela and Dan, to Fort Hays State as well as to our wonderful Ellis County neighborhood. Celebrating and sharing some of the newest members of Tiger Nation brings me great joy!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University exists to improve lives. Every day, I witness and experience our relentless focus on excellence and the unwavering resilience of my Fort Hays State colleagues. We work hard at supporting our students, faculty, and staff. We are responsible to one another and for one another. Together we build a better world.By the time this Heart of the Tiger column is published, we will have welcomed our faculty, staff, and students back to campus. It is my pleasure to introduce to the community the newest members of our senior leadership team: Dr. Angela Pool-Funai, dean of the Graduate School, and Dr. Dan Blankenship, interim dean of the College of College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS).Angela, a native of Houston, Texas, relocated to Hays from the high desert of southern Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park, by the way, is one of her favorite locales on the planet. I am adding that to my travel wish list.&nbsp;Angela is a nearly empty-nester mom of five boys. She shared with me that she has gone from feeding an army to needing to relearn how to grocery shop for much smaller portions.&nbsp;Angela and I share a love for boxing. Her other hobbies, I learned, are much more ambitious than mine. She is restoring a 1988 Ford Thunderbird that she affectionately refers to as her midlife crisis project. “I like working with my hands,” she said. “There are few things more gratifying to me than repairing something myself.”&nbsp;Angela loves the outdoors. She can be seen biking around Ellis and enjoys taking her canoe out to explore the lakes and reservoirs in the area. She says that spending time on the water helps her decompress both mentally and physically.A fun story Angela shared with me is that her first book was on ethics in fiscal administration (managing public resources in an ethical manner). The best compliment she received came from a student who told her that he expected to hate the book. Instead, he not only enjoyed reading it, he asked her to autograph his copy.Angela comes from a non-traditional academic background, in that she had many years of experience as a staff member before joining the faculty. The role of Graduate School Dean connects both paths of her career by allowing her to work across disciplines and with all areas of the university. I loved and appreciated this about her background as well as her positive, creative, high energy.Look for Angela at a Tiger football game as she is “pumped” for our first home game – as am I! She is also especially excited about a new virtual Lunch &amp; Learn series that the Graduate School is launching to stay engaged with all of our graduate students, both on campus and online. I love this.“The people I have met at FHSU made me feel at home before I even stepped foot on campus. I'm thrilled to be part of Tiger Nation!” Angela shared. We are excited about her talents and very optimistic how her efforts will benefit our students and our university.When long-standing and beloved dean, Paul Faber, retired after 38 years of dedicated service to FHSU, Dr. Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, wisely decided to appoint an interim dean of the college for one year. Dr. Blankenship was a perfect match to fill that role. He&nbsp; serves a special niche in higher education, providing strategic leadership for universities wanting to keep an institution moving forward while taking a more thoughtful approach in transitioning leadership.Dan came to Fort Hays State after serving for three years at Fort Valley State University in Georgia as dean of the College of Agriculture, then as vice provost for Academic Affairs and Director of Graduate Studies. He is very talented in keeping a university moving forward while creating processes for a successful transition for the leader selected to follow him. I feel very fortunate to have him on our team this year.&nbsp;Fun facts about Dan include that he is a licensed pilot (for about 20 years), has flown various aircraft, and currently owns a Mooney aircraft.&nbsp;Dan’s academic credentials include achieving faculty rank of professor of biology as well as earning tenure three times at three different institutions.&nbsp; He has been involved in liberal arts education most of his academic career and has delivered a keynote address to the faculty of Beijing Normal University in China and published in proceedings in Hong Kong, for example, on the application of a liberal arts education.&nbsp;What I really love about Dan is that he is very committed to student access and success. He has an academic background as a faculty member and 20-plus years in administration, demonstrating that commitment through retention and graduation initiatives.I asked Dan about his hopes for this academic year. “I’d like to see that the CAHSS becomes known for its initiative, creativity, and innovation – leading to better access by students to our programs and to be able to highlight the strengths of our programs,” he said. “I also would like us to find ways to better influence thought processes and thinking skills to help our constituents and students more critically analyze the world around us.”I am so excited to welcome our newest senior leaders, Angela and Dan, to Fort Hays State as well as to our wonderful Ellis County neighborhood. Celebrating and sharing some of the newest members of Tiger Nation brings me great joy!– end –

MASON: Newcomers adding energy to FHSU

Just as college students may feel anxious when they leave their homes and return to campus, fall is also a time when spring-born calves are separated from their mothers and stress ensues. &nbsp;&nbsp;

To minimize the stress felt, the experts at Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute offered management strategies to implement. Discussed on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2021/07/30/low-stress-weaning-managing-immunity-post-weaning-weight-loss-pain-management/" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast the experts defined the term low-stress weaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Low stress weaning refers to all the things we do to make it an easier transition from the cow-calf operation to the next step in the production system,” said Brian Lubbers, K-State veterinarian.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Veterinarian Bob Larson added that many producers follow the fence line weaning practice where the calves can still see their mothers through the fence but are unable to nurse. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We want to promote familiarity and eliminate the novelty of the weaning process, and we do that by offering them feed in a pen while they are still with their mothers or have them drink from a water source like the type they will encounter after weaning,” said Brad White, veterinarian and BCI director. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Regarding feed, BCI nutritionist Phillip Lancaster said the type of feed that works best in the diets of calves transitioning from their mother’s milk is one they are familiar with. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“While they are still with the cow, we want to introduce palatable feeds and begin that transition to a mixed ration and free choice hay,”.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Good, palatable feed choices for calves are distiller’s grains and cottonseed hulls that stimulate intake.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is also important to make sure the calves are consuming feed with an adequate protein content along with energy, vitamins and minerals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Adding grain mix to the diet can come at a cost, but it also reduces weight loss that most calves experience at weaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The experts agree that keeping the cattle healthy through this time is key and one way to do that is by helping the animals build their immunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There are two ways calves acquire immunity: Either from the mother directly to the calf through the colostrum, or the calves get it through a natural infection or vaccination,” Lubbers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The timing of vaccinations often will depend on the management and marketing for the operation, Larson said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He added: “For cattle that are not going to be co-mingled with cattle from other herds at weaning, it is fine to give those vaccinations at the time of weaning when you are already working with the calves.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

The bottom line, White said, is to work with a veterinarian to develop a pre-weaning plan that fits best with the goals for the herd. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District</figcaption>
 </figure>Just as college students may feel anxious when they leave their homes and return to campus, fall is also a time when spring-born calves are separated from their mothers and stress ensues. &nbsp;&nbsp;To minimize the stress felt, the experts at Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute offered management strategies to implement. Discussed on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2021/07/30/low-stress-weaning-managing-immunity-post-weaning-weight-loss-pain-management/" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast the experts defined the term low-stress weaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Low stress weaning refers to all the things we do to make it an easier transition from the cow-calf operation to the next step in the production system,” said Brian Lubbers, K-State veterinarian.&nbsp;&nbsp;Veterinarian Bob Larson added that many producers follow the fence line weaning practice where the calves can still see their mothers through the fence but are unable to nurse. &nbsp;&nbsp;“We want to promote familiarity and eliminate the novelty of the weaning process, and we do that by offering them feed in a pen while they are still with their mothers or have them drink from a water source like the type they will encounter after weaning,” said Brad White, veterinarian and BCI director. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Introducing Feed&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>Regarding feed, BCI nutritionist Phillip Lancaster said the type of feed that works best in the diets of calves transitioning from their mother’s milk is one they are familiar with. &nbsp;&nbsp;“While they are still with the cow, we want to introduce palatable feeds and begin that transition to a mixed ration and free choice hay,”.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Good, palatable feed choices for calves are distiller’s grains and cottonseed hulls that stimulate intake.”&nbsp;&nbsp;It is also important to make sure the calves are consuming feed with an adequate protein content along with energy, vitamins and minerals. &nbsp;&nbsp;Adding grain mix to the diet can come at a cost, but it also reduces weight loss that most calves experience at weaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Building Immunity&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>The experts agree that keeping the cattle healthy through this time is key and one way to do that is by helping the animals build their immunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There are two ways calves acquire immunity: Either from the mother directly to the calf through the colostrum, or the calves get it through a natural infection or vaccination,” Lubbers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;The timing of vaccinations often will depend on the management and marketing for the operation, Larson said.&nbsp;&nbsp;He added: “For cattle that are not going to be co-mingled with cattle from other herds at weaning, it is fine to give those vaccinations at the time of weaning when you are already working with the calves.” &nbsp;&nbsp;The bottom line, White said, is to work with a veterinarian to develop a pre-weaning plan that fits best with the goals for the herd. &nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Minimizing stress on spring-born calves

PHILLIPS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Phillips County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Lexus RX driven by Rachel L. Peters. 69, Hastings, was northbound on Kansas 383 six miles south of U.S. 183.

The car drifted left of center and off the road. It struck a field entrance in the left ditch, became airborne and rolled.&nbsp;

EMS transported Peters to the hospital in Kearny. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

PHILLIPS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Phillips County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Lexus RX driven by Rachel L. Peters. 69, Hastings, was northbound on Kansas 383 six miles south of U.S. 183.The car drifted left of center and off the road. It struck a field entrance in the left ditch, became airborne and rolled.&nbsp;EMS transported Peters to the hospital in Kearny. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Woman hospitalized after car rolls in NW Kansas

HaysMed welcomes two new physicians to the medical staff.&nbsp; Dr. Madhuri Ramakrishman, nephrologist, and Dr. John Kimbugwe, hospitalist, joined the hospital.

Dr. Ramakrishman completed medical school at&nbsp;Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India.&nbsp; She did her residency in Internal Medicine at the&nbsp;University of Missouri – Kansas City.&nbsp; She completed fellowships in Nephrology at Washington University, St. Louis, and Transplant Nephrology at the University of Kansas, Kansas City.&nbsp; Dr. Ramakrishman is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.&nbsp; She will be seeing patients in the Nephrology Clinic at HaysMed.

Dr. Kimbugwe completed his medical schooling at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.&nbsp; He did a residency in Internal Medicine at Texas Tech University Health Science Center, Amarillo, Texas.&nbsp; Dr. Kimbugwe will be part of the hospitalist team that specializes in treating in-patients in the hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629755372019.jpeg" alt="Dr. Madhuri Ramakrishman" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Madhuri Ramakrishman</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed welcomes two new physicians to the medical staff.&nbsp; Dr. Madhuri Ramakrishman, nephrologist, and Dr. John Kimbugwe, hospitalist, joined the hospital.Dr. Ramakrishman completed medical school at&nbsp;Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India.&nbsp; She did her residency in Internal Medicine at the&nbsp;University of Missouri – Kansas City.&nbsp; She completed fellowships in Nephrology at Washington University, St. Louis, and Transplant Nephrology at the University of Kansas, Kansas City.&nbsp; Dr. Ramakrishman is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.&nbsp; She will be seeing patients in the Nephrology Clinic at HaysMed.Dr. Kimbugwe completed his medical schooling at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.&nbsp; He did a residency in Internal Medicine at Texas Tech University Health Science Center, Amarillo, Texas.&nbsp; Dr. Kimbugwe will be part of the hospitalist team that specializes in treating in-patients in the hospital.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629755405786.jpeg" alt="Dr. John Kimbugwe" />
 <figcaption>Dr. John Kimbugwe</figcaption>
 </figure>

Nephrologist, hospitalist join medical staff at HaysMed

LANE COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Wednesday in Lane County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Jeep Compass driven by Karen Deutscher, 77, WaKeeney, was westbound on Kansas Highway 4 seven miles west of Utica.

The Jeep left the roadway to the left,&nbsp; began traveling westbound in the south ditch, collided with a KDOT sign, struck an embankment for a field road and rolled.

Deutscher was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Boomhower Funeral Home. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

LANE COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Wednesday in Lane County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Jeep Compass driven by Karen Deutscher, 77, WaKeeney, was westbound on Kansas Highway 4 seven miles west of Utica.The Jeep left the roadway to the left,&nbsp; began traveling westbound in the south ditch, collided with a KDOT sign, struck an embankment for a field road and rolled.Deutscher was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Boomhower Funeral Home. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

WaKeeney woman dead after violent rollover crash

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 30 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday. 

There have been 172 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County in the month of August after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 15 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,976 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629910758396.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f8d23be-8617-406a-b060-c1c358d43a00">RELATED:&nbsp;HaysMed chief medical officer discusses state of COVID spike</a>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 30 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday. There have been 172 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County in the month of August 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.As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 15 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,976 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 30 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

As community partners, Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) / ACCESS Transportation, along with the Partnership for a Safer Community are collaborating in the transition away from the Safe Ride service operated by DSNWK/ACCESS Transportation since 2005.&nbsp; Safe Ride has been a free service available and benefiting the entire community, providing more than 240,000 rides since the service began 16 years ago.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/495b37a4-77ae-41c2-92be-42d6e55ea152">RELATED: Safe Ride shutdown will continue through January</a>

With the desire to keep our community safe, appreciation is extended to everyone for their understanding during this difficult time. The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented limitations, including the operation of Safe Ride.&nbsp; Safe Ride has not been operational during the last seventeen months due to the Federal Transit Administration's requirements that all passengers on public transportation must wear a face mask.&nbsp; 

“Under the circumstances, the Safe Ride bus concept simply does not work under the pandemic. The necessary temporary closure must transition to an alternative that can work in these challenging times,"&nbsp; said Jerry Michaud, President of DSNWK. The Partnership for a Safer Community and all involved in the Safe Ride service realize a transition is needed so a choice can be offered that helps keep the roads safe.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

“Our gratitude is extended to DSNWK/ACCESS transportation for their service to the community over the last sixteen years," said Ed Howell, Chief of Police at FHSU.&nbsp; The Partnership for a Safer Community is exploring an alternative approach to Safe Ride.&nbsp;

DSNWKAs community partners, Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) / ACCESS Transportation, along with the Partnership for a Safer Community are collaborating in the transition away from the Safe Ride service operated by DSNWK/ACCESS Transportation since 2005.&nbsp; Safe Ride has been a free service available and benefiting the entire community, providing more than 240,000 rides since the service began 16 years ago.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/495b37a4-77ae-41c2-92be-42d6e55ea152">RELATED: Safe Ride shutdown will continue through January</a>With the desire to keep our community safe, appreciation is extended to everyone for their understanding during this difficult time. The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented limitations, including the operation of Safe Ride.&nbsp; Safe Ride has not been operational during the last seventeen months due to the Federal Transit Administration's requirements that all passengers on public transportation must wear a face mask.&nbsp; “Under the circumstances, the Safe Ride bus concept simply does not work under the pandemic. The necessary temporary closure must transition to an alternative that can work in these challenging times,"&nbsp; said Jerry Michaud, President of DSNWK. The Partnership for a Safer Community and all involved in the Safe Ride service realize a transition is needed so a choice can be offered that helps keep the roads safe.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;“Our gratitude is extended to DSNWK/ACCESS transportation for their service to the community over the last sixteen years," said Ed Howell, Chief of Police at FHSU.&nbsp; The Partnership for a Safer Community is exploring an alternative approach to Safe Ride.&nbsp;— Submitted

DSNWK: Safe Ride in state of transition

On Monday, Fort Hays State University welcomed students for the first day of classes and a little bit of fun, with the annual Back to School picnic.

Hundreds crowded the FHSU quad to visit with over 40 area businesses and student organizations during the afternoon event.

"The Back to School Picnic is iconic," said Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason.

That event welcomed NCK Tech and Hays Hair Academy students to campus, along with the community, to introduce students to Hays.

In previous years, Downtown Hays Development Corp. has hosted the March 2 Main, but this year those activities were included in the picnic.

"Re-evaluating it in 2021, we got all of the major key players together and said, 'Why have two fantastic events that are going to compete against each other? Why not join forces and have one big blowout?' " said Allie Glidewell, DHDC director of events and operations.

The university also hosted vaccination events during the first week to make it easy for anyone to be vaccinated to receive one, including an event during the Back to School Picnic.

While the university began the semester with no face masks or vaccination mandates, Mason said FHSU would monitor the situation closely and encourage safe behaviors.

"We will continue, just like we did with our phaseout plan, to encourage face coverings," Mason said.

But she said some specific courses, situations or gatherings on campus might implement masking requirements as needed.

"Unlike many of the other universities, it is not an all-class mandate. It is by decision of the faculty member or a specific organization," Mason said.

Even without the requirement in place, she said some have taken to wearing masks.

"We want to make sure the people who are wearing masks are feeling comfortable, not bullied, and that we are respecting them and thanking them for doing that," Mason said.

The university will also encourage COVID-19 vaccinations for those students and staff.

"We have a robust vaccination incentive program," Mason said. "That includes direct payment of $400 to eligible Fort Hays State University students and employees."

Other Kansas schools have offered drawings and scholarship dollars, but she said the direct financial payment made more sense for FHSU.

"First of all, it is a direct payment of cash," Mason said. "It applies to every student and our faculty and staff. ... We think cash is a good incentive. We think our students will spend a lot of that money locally, which will pump into the community as well, and it's the right thing to do. It's to encourage people to take that step if there are people willing and able to, to protect our community."

And those previously vaccinated are also eligible.

"All you have to do is show your card, voluntarily, and you will get your $400," Mason said.

She said with this program, they are respecting individual rights while incentivizing community members to move forward with the vaccination.

Through the FHSU gateway program, students at NCK Tech and the Hays Academy of Hair Design are also eligible for the incentive.

Eligible students and staff can provide their vaccination cards until Oct. 8 to be eligible.

While FHSU students will being classes without COVID-19 precautions mandated, as case counts continue to rise, Mason said they will continue to monitor and make changes as needed.

"The one thing that we don't want to do, is to go back to remote learning," she said.&nbsp;"We know that that is a challenge for students so we are doing everything possible to prevent that. We have the flexibility and we will do what we need to do, but we want to keep students face-to-face."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629762740933.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="FHSU classes begin Monday; Kick off event planned" allowtransparency="true" height="150" 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=36428-10bcb82-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=f6f6f6"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostOn Monday, Fort Hays State University welcomed students for the first day of classes and a little bit of fun, with the annual Back to School picnic.Hundreds crowded the FHSU quad to visit with over 40 area businesses and student organizations during the afternoon event."The Back to School Picnic is iconic," said Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763338995.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>That event welcomed NCK Tech and Hays Hair Academy students to campus, along with the community, to introduce students to Hays.In previous years, Downtown Hays Development Corp. has hosted the March 2 Main, but this year those activities were included in the picnic."Re-evaluating it in 2021, we got all of the major key players together and said, 'Why have two fantastic events that are going to compete against each other? Why not join forces and have one big blowout?' " said Allie Glidewell, DHDC director of events and operations."So that's what we did."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629762692048.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The university also hosted vaccination events during the first week to make it easy for anyone to be vaccinated to receive one, including an event during the Back to School Picnic.While the university began the semester with no face masks or vaccination mandates, Mason said FHSU would monitor the situation closely and encourage safe behaviors."We will continue, just like we did with our phaseout plan, to encourage face coverings," Mason said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763098456.jpeg" alt="Hays City Commissioner Mason Ruder, Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Commissioner Shaun Musil welcome Fort Hays State University, NCK Tech and Hays Academy of Hair design students to Hays." />
 <figcaption>Hays City Commissioner Mason Ruder, Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Commissioner Shaun Musil welcome Fort Hays State University, NCK Tech and Hays Academy of Hair design students to Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>But she said some specific courses, situations or gatherings on campus might implement masking requirements as needed."Unlike many of the other universities, it is not an all-class mandate. It is by decision of the faculty member or a specific organization," Mason said.Even without the requirement in place, she said some have taken to wearing masks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763371120.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We want to make sure the people who are wearing masks are feeling comfortable, not bullied, and that we are respecting them and thanking them for doing that," Mason said.The university will also encourage COVID-19 vaccinations for those students and staff."We have a robust vaccination incentive program," Mason said. "That includes direct payment of $400 to eligible Fort Hays State University students and employees."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763246589.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Other Kansas schools have offered drawings and scholarship dollars, but she said the direct financial payment made more sense for FHSU."First of all, it is a direct payment of cash," Mason said. "It applies to every student and our faculty and staff. ... We think cash is a good incentive. We think our students will spend a lot of that money locally, which will pump into the community as well, and it's the right thing to do. It's to encourage people to take that step if there are people willing and able to, to protect our community."And those previously vaccinated are also eligible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763405693.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"All you have to do is show your card, voluntarily, and you will get your $400," Mason said.She said with this program, they are respecting individual rights while incentivizing community members to move forward with the vaccination.Through the FHSU gateway program, students at NCK Tech and the Hays Academy of Hair Design are also eligible for the incentive.Local online students are also eligible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763283556.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eligible students and staff can provide their vaccination cards until Oct. 8 to be eligible.While FHSU students will being classes without COVID-19 precautions mandated, as case counts continue to rise, Mason said they will continue to monitor and make changes as needed."The one thing that we don't want to do, is to go back to remote learning," she said.&nbsp;"We know that that is a challenge for students so we are doing everything possible to prevent that. We have the flexibility and we will do what we need to do, but we want to keep students face-to-face."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629763069495.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙FHSU welcomes back students; $400 incentive offered for vaccinations

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board voted Monday night to take applications for a board vacancy.

Nuchelle Chance resigned her seat because she moved out of the district.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted Monday night to take applications for a board vacancy.Nuchelle Chance resigned her seat because she moved out of the district.Chance's term was set to expire in January. The November election will determine who takes the seat.&nbsp;Unless the person who is appointed is someone who is running for school board and is also elected to the board, the person who is appointed would only serve until the newly elected board members take their seats in January.Board member Lori Hertel made a motion to leave the seat vacant until the newly elected board members take their seats in January. Her motion died for lack of a second.The school district will publish a notice of the vacancy in the local newspaper. Fifteen days after publication, the board can appoint someone to the vacancy.