The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County identified since Wednesday.

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

As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, one active and two recovering.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,750 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621617808960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: May 21, 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=id3v8-10423be-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, one active and two recovering.Since reporting began, there have been 3,750 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙 Two new virus cases in Ellis Co.; Kennedy discusses vaccine

TOPEKA —&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Natoma water supply system, located in Osborne County. The advisory was issued because the wells were under water due to flooding.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the city of Natoma indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage.</a>

KDHETOPEKA —&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Natoma water supply system, located in Osborne County. The advisory was issued because the wells were under water due to flooding.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from the city of Natoma indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage.</a>

Boil order rescinded for city of Natoma

At approximately 6:30 a.m. Friday, the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from a residential home located at 107 W. 20th in Hays.

Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from the kitchen windows and smoke detectors were sounding. 

Fire crews immediately made entry into the vacant home and extinguished the fire using a water fire extinguisher. 

No injuries were reported. The fire was quickly extinguished and damage was minimal.

The home was vacant at the time and being remodeled. 

The cause of the fire was due to spontaneous combustion of wood floor refinishing materials. The materials were stored together created heat causing the fire.

The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays Police Department all responded.

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that when using materials and products that are flammable to please follow the manufacturer recommendations for use and disposal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621611662943.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Fire DepartmentAt approximately 6:30 a.m. Friday, the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from a residential home located at 107 W. 20th in Hays.Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from the kitchen windows and smoke detectors were sounding. Fire crews immediately made entry into the vacant home and extinguished the fire using a water fire extinguisher. No injuries were reported. The fire was quickly extinguished and damage was minimal.The home was vacant at the time and being remodeled. The cause of the fire was due to spontaneous combustion of wood floor refinishing materials. The materials were stored together created heat causing the fire.The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays Police Department all responded.The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that when using materials and products that are flammable to please follow the manufacturer recommendations for use and disposal.

Hays home damaged in early morning fire Friday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system which operates the Hays water&nbsp;plant and 25 ancillary sites (production wells, booster stations, and two water towers) was installed 28 years ago.&nbsp;

The outdated system is unreliable and requires a substantial&nbsp;upgrade in computer hardware and software, as well as connectivity, according to Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.

The water processing/distribution system in Hays is quality tested every two hours by employees.&nbsp;

Of the approximately 25 water asset sites, there are 12 with which the current SCADA system cannot communicate. Those sites are in the Big Creek and Smoky Hill River well fields.&nbsp;

The Smoky water well field is 12 miles south of Hays and the water treatment plant, located at 1000 Vine.

"If you're the operator and it's 11 p.m. and you're working by yourself and you need to shut off a well and you can't, that's a pretty big deal. 

"That creates some issues with operating things remotely," Crispin said. "Sometimes we have to call somebody out."

The SCADA system is used to monitor and gather real-time data, and control equipment at the water treatment plant and 25 its ancillary sites.&nbsp;

"Once water is used in the towers, there are set points that basically kick on pumps, sending more water into our system, filling the water towers back up," Crispin explained.

"Water towers are basically how we maintain pressure in our system, and they're also used for extra water for firefighting."

If everything is working properly in the aging computer system, water department employees can "click" on an individual asset, such as an individual water well which can be turned on and off to bring water into the city. Operators can see how any asset it operating and running.

"They can look at pressures, gallons-per-minute, water levels, many things to be able to operate those things."

But not everything can be controlled because the system is old, Crispin told city commissioners Thursday night.

Two filter controls at the water plant still use a computers from 1993 with a 3.5 inch floppy disk drive and a CD disk drive.

"It reminds me of high school," Crispin said, who noted he graduated in 1993, the same year the current SCADA system was installed.&nbsp;

Some of the older Hays water wells use remote telemetry units (RTUs) using radio frequencies, which will be replaced by programmable logic controllers (PLCs), allowing monitoring and control of the SCADA system.&nbsp;

At 18 of 25 water asset sites, a fiber optic system from Hays vendor Nex-Tech terminates at those site, but has never been used. Crispin said Nex-Tech is willing to make the connections at no cost to the city.

"This is a complicated project and a lot of things need to be done," Crispin said.&nbsp;

"Fiber will ensure that we have reliable communication and connection to our assets in all weather conditions. No longer will be have to rely on antennas, radio frequencies and interference of any&nbsp; kind.&nbsp;

"This is the way we really should be communicating with our water system to make sure that we are completely reliable at all times."

The SCADA improvements request for proposal created by Crispin and other staff members specified the same hardware and software that was installed in 2019 in the upgraded wastewater treatment plant.&nbsp;

"This would provide us the ability to actually switch parts back and forth if we needed to."

The updated system would allow operators to make adjustments at the ' lick of a computer mouse and make our system much beter

&nbsp;The city's current SCADA vendor, R.E. Pedrotti, based in Mission, is the low bidder for the updated SCADA project at&nbsp;$801,225, including an alternate three-year warranty extension. It is below the $850,000 budget and would be funded from the water capital budget. 

Although the water and wastewater systems are computer-operated,&nbsp; they are both separate from the city's IT (information technology) department.&nbsp;IT Department Director Chad Ruder has lent his expertise to this project, Crispin said.

The system is not connected to the city's internet system.

Commissioner Michael Berges asked about cyber security.

"Utilities are very attractive targets right now — and you know this -" Berges said, "and are being hacked into."

In early February, a computer hacker tried to poison the water supply of Oldsmar, Florida's water treatment system by changing a setting that would have drastically increased the amount of sodium hydroxide — known commonly as lye — in that city's water supply. It can be deadly if ingested in large amounts.

A city employee saw the change and quickly reversed it.

Crispin said that Florida system did not have proper security systems in place.

"This is another conversation I've had with Chad [Ruder] many times. We have three or four firewalls within our system to protect our city [water] system," Crispin told Berges.&nbsp;

Even though the current system is outdated, Crispin said the city is "very well protected with our firewalls. There is no connection between the city system.

"When we want to get on the internet, we have to make some adjustments, and what we're doing as part of this project is beefing up those firewalls.

"I feel very, very sure that right now we are as secure as we can be.&nbsp;Pedrotti would be able to 'dial in' through a firewall if we need to do any upgrades or security updates, and actually access that site."&nbsp;

According to Crispin, the managed option within the low bid includes a firewall for all 25 site assets.

"You're talking 25 firewalls. It's going to be very secure."

City commissioners will consider approving the low bid at their May 27 meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621563040148.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system which operates the Hays water&nbsp;plant and 25 ancillary sites (production wells, booster stations, and two water towers) was installed 28 years ago.&nbsp;The outdated system is unreliable and requires a substantial&nbsp;upgrade in computer hardware and software, as well as connectivity, according to Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.The water processing/distribution system in Hays is quality tested every two hours by employees.&nbsp;Of the approximately 25 water asset sites, there are 12 with which the current SCADA system cannot communicate. Those sites are in the Big Creek and Smoky Hill River well fields.&nbsp;The Smoky water well field is 12 miles south of Hays and the water treatment plant, located at 1000 Vine."If you're the operator and it's 11 p.m. and you're working by yourself and you need to shut off a well and you can't, that's a pretty big deal. "That creates some issues with operating things remotely," Crispin said. "Sometimes we have to call somebody out."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zbuqDzUj13E"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The SCADA system is used to monitor and gather real-time data, and control equipment at the water treatment plant and 25 its ancillary sites.&nbsp;"Once water is used in the towers, there are set points that basically kick on pumps, sending more water into our system, filling the water towers back up," Crispin explained. "Water towers are basically how we maintain pressure in our system, and they're also used for extra water for firefighting."If everything is working properly in the aging computer system, water department employees can "click" on an individual asset, such as an individual water well which can be turned on and off to bring water into the city. Operators can see how any asset it operating and running."They can look at pressures, gallons-per-minute, water levels, many things to be able to operate those things."But not everything can be controlled because the system is old, Crispin told city commissioners Thursday night.Two filter controls at the water plant still use a computers from 1993 with a 3.5 inch floppy disk drive and a CD disk drive."It reminds me of high school," Crispin said, who noted he graduated in 1993, the same year the current SCADA system was installed.&nbsp;Some of the older Hays water wells use remote telemetry units (RTUs) using radio frequencies, which will be replaced by programmable logic controllers (PLCs), allowing monitoring and control of the SCADA system.&nbsp;At 18 of 25 water asset sites, a fiber optic system from Hays vendor Nex-Tech terminates at those site, but has never been used. Crispin said Nex-Tech is willing to make the connections at no cost to the city.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621567877327.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"This is a complicated project and a lot of things need to be done," Crispin said.&nbsp;"Fiber will ensure that we have reliable communication and connection to our assets in all weather conditions. No longer will be have to rely on antennas, radio frequencies and interference of any&nbsp; kind.&nbsp;"This is the way we really should be communicating with our water system to make sure that we are completely reliable at all times."The SCADA improvements request for proposal created by Crispin and other staff members specified the same hardware and software that was installed in 2019 in the upgraded wastewater treatment plant.&nbsp;"This would provide us the ability to actually switch parts back and forth if we needed to."The updated system would allow operators to make adjustments at the ' lick of a computer mouse and make our system much beter&nbsp;The city's current SCADA vendor, R.E. Pedrotti, based in Mission, is the low bidder for the updated SCADA project at&nbsp;$801,225, including an alternate three-year warranty extension. It is below the $850,000 budget and would be funded from the water capital budget. Although the water and wastewater systems are computer-operated,&nbsp; they are both separate from the city's IT (information technology) department.&nbsp;IT Department Director Chad Ruder has lent his expertise to this project, Crispin said.The system is not connected to the city's internet system.Commissioner Michael Berges asked about cyber security."Utilities are very attractive targets right now — and you know this -" Berges said, "and are being hacked into."In early February, a computer hacker tried to poison the water supply of Oldsmar, Florida's water treatment system by changing a setting that would have drastically increased the amount of sodium hydroxide — known commonly as lye — in that city's water supply. It can be deadly if ingested in large amounts.A city employee saw the change and quickly reversed it.Crispin said that Florida system did not have proper security systems in place."This is another conversation I've had with Chad [Ruder] many times. We have three or four firewalls within our system to protect our city [water] system," Crispin told Berges.&nbsp;Even though the current system is outdated, Crispin said the city is "very well protected with our firewalls. There is no connection between the city system."When we want to get on the internet, we have to make some adjustments, and what we're doing as part of this project is beefing up those firewalls. "I feel very, very sure that right now we are as secure as we can be.&nbsp;Pedrotti would be able to 'dial in' through a firewall if we need to do any upgrades or security updates, and actually access that site."&nbsp;According to Crispin, the managed option within the low bid includes a firewall for all 25 site assets."You're talking 25 firewalls. It's going to be very secure."City commissioners will consider approving the low bid at their May 27 meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 🎥 Aged SCADA operating system for Hays' water plant needs update for security, operations  

Free events planned this month in Ellis, Russell counties&nbsp;

Kansas landowners are invited to attend a pair of Tailgate Talks planned for May 25 and 26 and focused on protecting water quality, creating alternative watering sources for livestock, and other topics.&nbsp;

The Tailgate Talks will take place in Ellis and Russell Counties and are free to the public. All events feature experts from K-State Research and Extension and local landowners.&nbsp;

“These events give producers in our community an essential toolkit for implementing best management practices in their operations,” said Stacie Minson, a K-State Research and Extension watershed specialist. “There are many proven ways that people can protect and improve their water sources and optimize their cattle operations, so we’re excited to offer these demonstrations to the community.”&nbsp;

The first Tailgate Talk will begin at 8 a.m. on May 25, hosted by the Binder family at Pleasant View Farms in Hays. K-State Research and Extension speakers will discuss using existing feed sources in cattle operations, and there will be a live demonstration of a tire tank installation as an alternative water source for livestock.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There are two sessions on May 26. Participants are invited to the Corley Farm in Gorham at 1:30 p.m. to learn about how to incorporate cover crops into a livestock grazing plan and the use of portable fencing in livestock operations. There also will be a live demonstration of a tire tank installation as an alternative livestock water source.&nbsp;

The second session will begin at 5 p.m. at the Blundon Farm in Russell. There, experts will explain the benefits of providing alternative water sources, show how to use geotextile fabric and rock in feeding operations, and discuss different aspects of livestock wells.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dinner will be provided to participants at the Blundon Farm at the conclusion of the program. Speakers will be available throughout to answer questions from the public.&nbsp;

More information about speakers, topics and locations can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/special_events.html">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment website</a>. Those interested in attending either, or both, events should RSVP to 785-769-3297.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Free events planned this month in Ellis, Russell counties&nbsp;</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionKansas landowners are invited to attend a pair of Tailgate Talks planned for May 25 and 26 and focused on protecting water quality, creating alternative watering sources for livestock, and other topics.&nbsp;The Tailgate Talks will take place in Ellis and Russell Counties and are free to the public. All events feature experts from K-State Research and Extension and local landowners.&nbsp;“These events give producers in our community an essential toolkit for implementing best management practices in their operations,” said Stacie Minson, a K-State Research and Extension watershed specialist. “There are many proven ways that people can protect and improve their water sources and optimize their cattle operations, so we’re excited to offer these demonstrations to the community.”&nbsp;The first Tailgate Talk will begin at 8 a.m. on May 25, hosted by the Binder family at Pleasant View Farms in Hays. K-State Research and Extension speakers will discuss using existing feed sources in cattle operations, and there will be a live demonstration of a tire tank installation as an alternative water source for livestock.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are two sessions on May 26. Participants are invited to the Corley Farm in Gorham at 1:30 p.m. to learn about how to incorporate cover crops into a livestock grazing plan and the use of portable fencing in livestock operations. There also will be a live demonstration of a tire tank installation as an alternative livestock water source.&nbsp;The second session will begin at 5 p.m. at the Blundon Farm in Russell. There, experts will explain the benefits of providing alternative water sources, show how to use geotextile fabric and rock in feeding operations, and discuss different aspects of livestock wells.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dinner will be provided to participants at the Blundon Farm at the conclusion of the program. Speakers will be available throughout to answer questions from the public.&nbsp;More information about speakers, topics and locations can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/special_events.html">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment website</a>. Those interested in attending either, or both, events should RSVP to 785-769-3297.&nbsp;&nbsp;

‘Tailgate Talks’ to feature expert speakers, local landowners 

A lot of graduates from Fort Hays State University participated in the online commencement ceremony this year because of the pandemic. But Osama Tamimi decided long ago he would attend his graduation from FHSU, even if it meant making the long trek from the Middle East to the middle of the United States.

Tamimi – who earned a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in cybersecurity through FHSU Online – made the 6,744-mile trip from his homeland East Jerusalem, Palestine, to personally participate in last weekend’s graduation activities.

Allowing online graduates to take part in the in-person commencement ceremonies was one of several requirements for Tamimi when he began researching online degree opportunities two years ago.

A self-described researcher, Tamimi ­– an&nbsp;IP network and security supervisor&nbsp;for a&nbsp;telecommunications company in Palestine –&nbsp;was looking for an online program in cybersecurity at an institution with excellent accreditation. He was impressed to find that FHSU is accredited through the National Center of Academic Excellence (NCAE) in information assurance and cyber defense education.&nbsp;The U.S. Government has designated FHSU as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.&nbsp;Affordable tuition at FHSU was also a plus.

“There aren’t too many programs that are entirely online,” Tamimi said, “and they aren’t many with that accreditation. I was very pleased to see that tuition is the same for anyone - worldwide. There were options in Australia and the United Kingdom, but there were better options in the United States. With Fort Hays State, I found exactly what I was looking for.”

After all the cancelations and event rescheduling because of the pandemic, Tamimi – who had a current U.S. Visa – knew there was still a possibility he wouldn’t be able to attend his graduation ceremony in person. When he learned that FHSU was indeed holding in-person ceremonies this spring, he began planning for his 12-day trip to America.

Tamimi earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Jordan University of Science and Technology in Irbid, Jordan, in 2011. Various fellowships and work obligations have taken him to 28 different countries.

This was his fifth trip to the United States – and first to Kansas – and he made the most of it.&nbsp;

He checked regulations for every airport he would be using, paying close attention to any possible changes because of COVID-19 protocols. After several days of travel, he arrived in Hays on Tuesday, three days before his commencement ceremony.

A lover of nature, Tamimi visited Cedar Bluff Lake in Trego County. He wanted to take a tour of Hays, too, so Cindy Elliott – FHSU assistant vice president for Global Partnerships – obliged.

On his return trip home, Tamimi planned a visit to Wilson Lake, Mushroom State Park near Brookville, and the state capitol in Topeka, then take a drive through the Flinthills on his way to the Kansas City International Airport.&nbsp;

“I just really wanted to experience the joys of Kansas, but&nbsp;it turned out that attending the ceremony in person has more benefits and advantages than I initially thought,” he said. “I was introduced to many faculty and staff members and got to know them in person, which resulted in an excellent engagement. It made the Hays trip very fruitful with unforgettable memories, not to mention the good times that I spent on campus. Having such an experience will encourage me to get back to school in the future for a higher degree.”

Tamimi was able to continue his program without delay when the pandemic forced Fort Hays State to switch to remote operations for the remainder of the spring semester last year.

“The beauty of our program is that it’s designed for online first. All the content and hands-on lab activities are the same if you are on campus or in taking courses online,” said Jason Zeller, assistant professor of informatics, lead faculty of the cybersecurity program, and Tamimi’s advisor. “So absolutely nothing changed with the program when COVID hit. We were fortunate in that regard.”

Tamimi was pleased that he was able to incorporate into his workplace findings from his master’s capstone project – automatic detection and mitigation of Volumetric DDoS attacks (one of the most common attacks in cybersecurity). For his project, he developed software that will automatically detect and mitigate that type of attack.

Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand all over the country. In an effort to meet the varying degree of skills required for an array of available positions, the Department of Informatics added an undergraduate cybersecurity major in addition to the long-standing master’s program.&nbsp;

While Zeller expects the undergraduate program to be a feeder for the master’s program, he notes that the Fort Hays State cybersecurity programs can be made to fit anyone, regardless of prior education background, considering a student’s objectives and needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tamimi thinks FHSU’s master’s program stacks up against any in the world.&nbsp;

“I have had a lot of fellowships in several different countries,” Tamimi said, “and Fort Hays State’s cybersecurity program is an exceptional one.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621438777477.png" alt="Graduate Osama Tamimi, right, from East Jerusalem, Palestine, pictured with his Fort Hays State University adviser, Jason Zeller, at last weekend’s FHSU commencement." />
 <figcaption>Graduate Osama Tamimi, right, from East Jerusalem, Palestine, pictured with his Fort Hays State University adviser, Jason Zeller, at last weekend’s FHSU commencement.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsA lot of graduates from Fort Hays State University participated in the online commencement ceremony this year because of the pandemic. But Osama Tamimi decided long ago he would attend his graduation from FHSU, even if it meant making the long trek from the Middle East to the middle of the United States.Tamimi – who earned a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in cybersecurity through FHSU Online – made the 6,744-mile trip from his homeland East Jerusalem, Palestine, to personally participate in last weekend’s graduation activities.Allowing online graduates to take part in the in-person commencement ceremonies was one of several requirements for Tamimi when he began researching online degree opportunities two years ago.A self-described researcher, Tamimi ­– an&nbsp;IP network and security supervisor&nbsp;for a&nbsp;telecommunications company in Palestine –&nbsp;was looking for an online program in cybersecurity at an institution with excellent accreditation. He was impressed to find that FHSU is accredited through the National Center of Academic Excellence (NCAE) in information assurance and cyber defense education.&nbsp;The U.S. Government has designated FHSU as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.&nbsp;Affordable tuition at FHSU was also a plus.“There aren’t too many programs that are entirely online,” Tamimi said, “and they aren’t many with that accreditation. I was very pleased to see that tuition is the same for anyone - worldwide. There were options in Australia and the United Kingdom, but there were better options in the United States. With Fort Hays State, I found exactly what I was looking for.”After all the cancelations and event rescheduling because of the pandemic, Tamimi – who had a current U.S. Visa – knew there was still a possibility he wouldn’t be able to attend his graduation ceremony in person. When he learned that FHSU was indeed holding in-person ceremonies this spring, he began planning for his 12-day trip to America.Tamimi earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Jordan University of Science and Technology in Irbid, Jordan, in 2011. Various fellowships and work obligations have taken him to 28 different countries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621438827844.jpeg" alt="Osama Tamimi from East Jerusalem, Palestine, celebrates with fellow graduates Haley Williams, Xiao (Lucia) Sun, and Jadyn Snyder at last weekend’s Fort Hays State University commencement." />
 <figcaption>Osama Tamimi from East Jerusalem, Palestine, celebrates with fellow graduates Haley Williams, Xiao (Lucia) Sun, and Jadyn Snyder at last weekend’s Fort Hays State University commencement.</figcaption>
 </figure>This was his fifth trip to the United States – and first to Kansas – and he made the most of it.&nbsp;He checked regulations for every airport he would be using, paying close attention to any possible changes because of COVID-19 protocols. After several days of travel, he arrived in Hays on Tuesday, three days before his commencement ceremony.A lover of nature, Tamimi visited Cedar Bluff Lake in Trego County. He wanted to take a tour of Hays, too, so Cindy Elliott – FHSU assistant vice president for Global Partnerships – obliged.On his return trip home, Tamimi planned a visit to Wilson Lake, Mushroom State Park near Brookville, and the state capitol in Topeka, then take a drive through the Flinthills on his way to the Kansas City International Airport.&nbsp;“I just really wanted to experience the joys of Kansas, but&nbsp;it turned out that attending the ceremony in person has more benefits and advantages than I initially thought,” he said. “I was introduced to many faculty and staff members and got to know them in person, which resulted in an excellent engagement. It made the Hays trip very fruitful with unforgettable memories, not to mention the good times that I spent on campus. Having such an experience will encourage me to get back to school in the future for a higher degree.”Tamimi was able to continue his program without delay when the pandemic forced Fort Hays State to switch to remote operations for the remainder of the spring semester last year.“The beauty of our program is that it’s designed for online first. All the content and hands-on lab activities are the same if you are on campus or in taking courses online,” said Jason Zeller, assistant professor of informatics, lead faculty of the cybersecurity program, and Tamimi’s advisor. “So absolutely nothing changed with the program when COVID hit. We were fortunate in that regard.”Tamimi was pleased that he was able to incorporate into his workplace findings from his master’s capstone project – automatic detection and mitigation of Volumetric DDoS attacks (one of the most common attacks in cybersecurity). For his project, he developed software that will automatically detect and mitigate that type of attack.Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand all over the country. In an effort to meet the varying degree of skills required for an array of available positions, the Department of Informatics added an undergraduate cybersecurity major in addition to the long-standing master’s program.&nbsp;While Zeller expects the undergraduate program to be a feeder for the master’s program, he notes that the Fort Hays State cybersecurity programs can be made to fit anyone, regardless of prior education background, considering a student’s objectives and needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tamimi thinks FHSU’s master’s program stacks up against any in the world.&nbsp;“I have had a lot of fellowships in several different countries,” Tamimi said, “and Fort Hays State’s cybersecurity program is an exceptional one.”

Online graduate crosses Atlantic to attend FHSU commencement

Several representatives of Hays have been invited to present at the International Town &amp; Gown Association’s 2021 virtual conference, which will be hosted May 24 to 26 by Marquette University. The three-day conference will consist of 60 sessions on three tracks, which are focused on the theme “Innovating for Tomorrow, Together.”

Downtown Hays Development Corporation Executive Director Sara Bloom will co-present with Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau. Not for the first time, the duo will be presenting on the annual event known as March to Main.

"There's a twist to this event when we look back on 2020 which is why Melissa and I felt it important to present again," Bloom said. "Not getting to welcome our new students in person was a huge hurdle to jump and we did it, I think, in a very creative and interactive manner despite our virtual circumstances."

The presentation titled, "March to Main Goes Virtual - We're Still Partnering to Welcome and Invest in Our Students," will focus on how DHDC, the CVB, and their school partners pulled off a welcome party with no parade, no free food, and no concert, but still provided fun and entertainment, gave away thousands in prizes, created commerce, and built stronger partnerships. The presentation is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. Monday.

Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs will also be presenting at the conference as a panelist in a presentation titled, "Life After COVID: City Officials Panel: How college communities are moving forward after COVID."

While most cities and villages around the globe have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, college towns have been especially impacted due to the decrease in student populations. The panel will focus on elected and city officials discussing how their communities handled the adversity and challenges of COVID-19, how the federal relief funds have aided in recovery, and innovative ways in which college towns are moving forward.&nbsp;

Other panelists include: City Manager Lee Feldman, Gainesville, FL; City Manager Tom Fountaine, State College, PA; Mayor Cam Guthrie, City of Guelph, ON, Canada; Mayor Karl Mooney, College Station, TX. Mayor Steve Patterson, Athens, OH, will be moderating the discussion. The panel is scheduled to begin at noon (EST) on Monday, May 24.

As a current ITGA Board Member, Bloom will also serve as moderator for several sessions and participate in a panel on ways to utilize the ITGA organization through its affinity groups and committees that are providing new resources and opportunities for member engagement. Bloom is also on ITGA's 2021 Slate of Officers nominated as the incoming board secretary. The ballot will be open during the ITGA Conference beginning May 24 and will close on May 26.

ITGA members and non-members from across the United States, England, and Canada will participate in the conference. For a complete listing of sessions, abstracts, and speakers, visit <a href="https://www.itga.org/Conference/2021">https://www.itga.org/Conference/2021</a>.

About ITGA: The International Town &amp; Gown Association (ITGA), based at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina, is the premier resource for addressing challenges, emerging issues and opportunities between and among institutions of higher education and the communities in which they reside. Founded in 2008, ITGA has a membership that includes colleges and universities, municipalities, businesses and strategic partners. Learn more at <a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fitga.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cdkkennedy1%40ua.edu%7C719118117c18459048c208d90fd22473%7C2a00728ef0d040b4a4e8ce433f3fbca7%7C0%7C0%7C637558217508993856%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=4lgOVWf4B0EjDhMtv561Ou8SfavTZRHUUtFnZfFcrcU%3D&amp;reserved=0">itga.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621431516251.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCSeveral representatives of Hays have been invited to present at the International Town &amp; Gown Association’s 2021 virtual conference, which will be hosted May 24 to 26 by Marquette University. The three-day conference will consist of 60 sessions on three tracks, which are focused on the theme “Innovating for Tomorrow, Together.”Downtown Hays Development Corporation Executive Director Sara Bloom will co-present with Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau. Not for the first time, the duo will be presenting on the annual event known as March to Main.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621431690765.jpeg" alt="Bloom" />
 <figcaption>Bloom</figcaption>
 </figure>"There's a twist to this event when we look back on 2020 which is why Melissa and I felt it important to present again," Bloom said. "Not getting to welcome our new students in person was a huge hurdle to jump and we did it, I think, in a very creative and interactive manner despite our virtual circumstances."The presentation titled, "March to Main Goes Virtual - We're Still Partnering to Welcome and Invest in Our Students," will focus on how DHDC, the CVB, and their school partners pulled off a welcome party with no parade, no free food, and no concert, but still provided fun and entertainment, gave away thousands in prizes, created commerce, and built stronger partnerships. The presentation is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621431711683.jpeg" alt="Dixon" />
 <figcaption>Dixon</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs will also be presenting at the conference as a panelist in a presentation titled, "Life After COVID: City Officials Panel: How college communities are moving forward after COVID."While most cities and villages around the globe have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, college towns have been especially impacted due to the decrease in student populations. The panel will focus on elected and city officials discussing how their communities handled the adversity and challenges of COVID-19, how the federal relief funds have aided in recovery, and innovative ways in which college towns are moving forward.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621431735152.jpeg" alt="Jacobs" />
 <figcaption>Jacobs</figcaption>
 </figure>Other panelists include: City Manager Lee Feldman, Gainesville, FL; City Manager Tom Fountaine, State College, PA; Mayor Cam Guthrie, City of Guelph, ON, Canada; Mayor Karl Mooney, College Station, TX. Mayor Steve Patterson, Athens, OH, will be moderating the discussion. The panel is scheduled to begin at noon (EST) on Monday, May 24.As a current ITGA Board Member, Bloom will also serve as moderator for several sessions and participate in a panel on ways to utilize the ITGA organization through its affinity groups and committees that are providing new resources and opportunities for member engagement. Bloom is also on ITGA's 2021 Slate of Officers nominated as the incoming board secretary. The ballot will be open during the ITGA Conference beginning May 24 and will close on May 26.ITGA members and non-members from across the United States, England, and Canada will participate in the conference. For a complete listing of sessions, abstracts, and speakers, visit <a href="https://www.itga.org/Conference/2021">https://www.itga.org/Conference/2021</a>.About ITGA: The International Town &amp; Gown Association (ITGA), based at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina, is the premier resource for addressing challenges, emerging issues and opportunities between and among institutions of higher education and the communities in which they reside. Founded in 2008, ITGA has a membership that includes colleges and universities, municipalities, businesses and strategic partners. Learn more at <a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fitga.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cdkkennedy1%40ua.edu%7C719118117c18459048c208d90fd22473%7C2a00728ef0d040b4a4e8ce433f3fbca7%7C0%7C0%7C637558217508993856%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=4lgOVWf4B0EjDhMtv561Ou8SfavTZRHUUtFnZfFcrcU%3D&amp;reserved=0">itga.org</a>.

 Hays officials will present for International Town & Gown Association

The Hays Police Department responded to 10 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Thursday, May 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Overdose—1000
block E 8th St, Hays; 3:20 AM; 3:34 AM 
Animal At Large—2000 block Main St Terr, Hays; 7:50 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 8:53 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:23 AM 
Theft (general)—200 block W 7th St, Hays; &nbsp;5/12 3 PM; 4 PM 
Arson—1300 block Lawrence Dr, Hays; 1:11 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:57 PM 
Drug Offenses—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 3:22 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1200 block Elm St, Hays; 3:32 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 4:40 PM 
Drug Offenses—1100 block Downing Ave, Hays; 9:19 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 9 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Friday, May 14, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV Accident/DUI--13th
and Hall, Hays; 1:53 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property--400 block W 8th St, Hays; 7 AM; 7:25 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 8:37 AM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block E 32nd St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 10:56 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:48 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2000 block Hall St, Hays; 3:27 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block W 6th St, Hays; 12 PM; 3:50 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 3:58 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury--27th and Plaza, Hays; 4:23 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 6:12 PM 
Criminal Threat—300 block W 16th St, Hays; 7:24 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--27th and Vine St, Hays; 7:28 PM 
Reckless Driver--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 7:48 PM 
Animal At Large—2100 block Vine St, Hays; 8:57 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 30 traffic stops Saturday, May 15, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block E 41 St, Hays; 4:27 PM 
Driving Under the Influence-- 400 block W 11th St, Hays; 2:15 AM 
Suspicious Vehicle--2700 block Hall St, Hays; 4:51 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:58 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--27th and Donald, Hay; 2:32 PM 
Civil Dispute--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 4:39 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 19th St, Hay; 4:55 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 7:38 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block Felten Dr, Hays; 9:34 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 9 traffic stops Sunday, May 16, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Disorderly
Conduct—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:01 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Main St, Hays; 1:58 AM 
Disturbance – General—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 3:37 AM 
Animal At Large—2200 block Drum Ave, Hay; 11:30 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1100 block Centennial Blvd, Hays; 1:21 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1700 block Vine St, Hays; 1:28 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—3300 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 2:43 PM 
Suicide—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 2:47 PM 
Animal At Large--1300 block Main Hwy, Hays; 4:09 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:55 PM 
Battery – Domestic—1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 5:04 PM 
Parking Complaint—2300 block Donald Dr, Hays; 7:18 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 10 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Thursday, May 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Overdose—1000
block E 8th St, Hays; 3:20 AM; 3:34 AM 
Animal At Large—2000 block Main St Terr, Hays; 7:50 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 8:53 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:23 AM 
Theft (general)—200 block W 7th St, Hays; &nbsp;5/12 3 PM; 4 PM 
Arson—1300 block Lawrence Dr, Hays; 1:11 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:57 PM 
Drug Offenses—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 3:22 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1200 block Elm St, Hays; 3:32 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 4:40 PM 
Drug Offenses—1100 block Downing Ave, Hays; 9:19 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 9 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Friday, May 14, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV Accident/DUI--13th
and Hall, Hays; 1:53 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property--400 block W 8th St, Hays; 7 AM; 7:25 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 8:37 AM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block E 32nd St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 10:56 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:48 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2000 block Hall St, Hays; 3:27 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block W 6th St, Hays; 12 PM; 3:50 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 3:58 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury--27th and Plaza, Hays; 4:23 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 6:12 PM 
Criminal Threat—300 block W 16th St, Hays; 7:24 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--27th and Vine St, Hays; 7:28 PM 
Reckless Driver--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 7:48 PM 
Animal At Large—2100 block Vine St, Hays; 8:57 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 30 traffic stops Saturday, May 15, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block E 41 St, Hays; 4:27 PM 
Driving Under the Influence-- 400 block W 11th St, Hays; 2:15 AM 
Suspicious Vehicle--2700 block Hall St, Hays; 4:51 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:58 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--27th and Donald, Hay; 2:32 PM 
Civil Dispute--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 4:39 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 19th St, Hay; 4:55 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 7:38 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block Felten Dr, Hays; 9:34 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 9 traffic stops Sunday, May 16, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Disorderly
Conduct—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:01 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Main St, Hays; 1:58 AM 
Disturbance – General—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 3:37 AM 
Animal At Large—2200 block Drum Ave, Hay; 11:30 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1100 block Centennial Blvd, Hays; 1:21 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1700 block Vine St, Hays; 1:28 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—3300 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 2:43 PM 
Suicide—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 2:47 PM 
Animal At Large--1300 block Main Hwy, Hays; 4:09 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:55 PM 
Battery – Domestic—1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 5:04 PM 
Parking Complaint—2300 block Donald Dr, Hays; 7:18 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, May 13-16

Three-day weather outlook

We are approaching the time of year when many people take a vacation. In the rush to get everything done before leaving, don't forget your houseplants will probably need watering while you are gone. The best alternative is to have someone water them for you. However, if this is not possible, there are alternatives. 1. Well-watered plants can be placed inside a plastic bag. Prop up the bag by using wooden dowels or something similar to keep the plastic off the leaves. Make sure the enclosed plants will not receive full sun as heat buildup may cook them. Bright, indirect light is best. Plants should keep for about a week with this method. 2. This method requires an old dish drying rack, a bathtub in a bathroom with some natural light, and some shoelaces. Place the drying rack upside down in the tub and add several inches of water. Push one end of a shoelace through a drainage hole on the bottom of a pot and into the potting soil of your houseplant. The other end of the shoelace dangles into the water. You have made a wick system that will replace the water in the pot as the plant uses it. Plants can last a couple of weeks if you have enough natural light.​

3. Numerous commercial products that can be used to automatically water houseplants in your absence. The advantage of these products is that the houseplant does not normally need to be moved. All require a reservoir from which water is either siphoned or pumped to individual houseplants. Houseplants should last as long as the water holds out. 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/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>We are approaching the time of year when many people take a vacation. In the rush to get everything done before leaving, don't forget your houseplants will probably need watering while you are gone. The best alternative is to have someone water them for you. However, if this is not possible, there are alternatives. 1. Well-watered plants can be placed inside a plastic bag. Prop up the bag by using wooden dowels or something similar to keep the plastic off the leaves. Make sure the enclosed plants will not receive full sun as heat buildup may cook them. Bright, indirect light is best. Plants should keep for about a week with this method. 2. This method requires an old dish drying rack, a bathtub in a bathroom with some natural light, and some shoelaces. Place the drying rack upside down in the tub and add several inches of water. Push one end of a shoelace through a drainage hole on the bottom of a pot and into the potting soil of your houseplant. The other end of the shoelace dangles into the water. You have made a wick system that will replace the water in the pot as the plant uses it. Plants can last a couple of weeks if you have enough natural light.​3. Numerous commercial products that can be used to automatically water houseplants in your absence. The advantage of these products is that the houseplant does not normally need to be moved. All require a reservoir from which water is either siphoned or pumped to individual houseplants. Houseplants should last as long as the water holds out. 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: Watering houseplants while on vacation 

Event is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. from Hays Middle School. Tribe Broadcasting video

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OAB0AUr_f8g"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Event is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. from Hays Middle School. Tribe Broadcasting video

🎥 Hays Middle School eighth-grade promotion

ELLSWORTH – A Wilson man has been sentenced to more than 29 years in prison for his conviction on three counts of rape, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Thursday.

Dalton Eberhart, 20, of Wilson, was sentenced today in Ellsworth County District Court by District Judge Steven Johnson to serve 350 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections. Eberhart had pleaded guilty to the charges in February. In addition, Johnson sentenced Eberhart to lifetime post-release supervision and registration as a sex offender, according to a news release from Schmidt's office.

The crimes took place between June 2019 and May 2020. The case was investigated by the Wilson Police Department, Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590011023759.png" alt="Dalton Eberhart. Photo courtesy Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Eberhart. Photo courtesy Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH – A Wilson man has been sentenced to more than 29 years in prison for his conviction on three counts of rape, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Thursday.Dalton Eberhart, 20, of Wilson, was sentenced today in Ellsworth County District Court by District Judge Steven Johnson to serve 350 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections. Eberhart had pleaded guilty to the charges in February. In addition, Johnson sentenced Eberhart to lifetime post-release supervision and registration as a sex offender, according to a news release from Schmidt's office.The crimes took place between June 2019 and May 2020. The case was investigated by the Wilson Police Department, Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Wilson man sentenced to 29+ years in prison for rape convictions

HAYS - The Hays High baseball scored a run in the bottom of the seventh to defeat Andover then got a combined shutout from Dylan Dreiling and Dalton Dale to defeat Valley Center 4-0 to win their own 5A regional and advance to next week's 5A State Tournament in Wichita.

Game 1:&nbsp;Valley Center 4, Kapaun Mr. Carmel 1 Valley Center starter Payton Graham allowed just one run over 6.2 innings as the Hornets beat Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4-1 in the opening game of the day. Jesse Johnson drove two runs in with two outs in the third inning then added another in the top of the seventh for a 4-1 lead.

Valley Center improved to 10-11 with the win. Kapaun's season ends at 13-8.

Game 2: Hays 5, Andover 4 Hays won their semi-final game in dramatic fashion. Hays and Andover were tied at the end of the first and second innings. The Indians jumped ahead with two runs in the bottom of the fourth on run scoring singles by Remington Cox and Carson Spray.

Andover tied the game with single runs in the fifth and sixth. Hays ended the sixth with an unusual double play. Valley Center flew out to right field to score a run. However the runner at first left early after tagging up and was called out when the Indians appealed to first base. The run counted and tied the game at four.

The Indians loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh with no outs. Garrett Wellbrock scored the game winning run when a grounder to second base was thrown wide of home plate. Dylan Dreiling took the win in relief.

Game 3: Hays 4, Valley Center 0 Hays and Valley Center stayed scoreless threw three innings before Hays scratched a run across in the bottom of the fourth. Remington Cox led the inning off with a double. Noah Weimer scored on a balk call two batters later for a 1-0 lead.

The Indians batted around in the fifth scoring three runs on two hits and four walks. Garrett Wellbrock drove two runs in on a single. Dalyn Schwarz drove in another on a bases loaded walk for a 4-0 advantage.

Dylan Dreiling started game two and picked up the win but was lifted after six innings due to reaching the maximum pitch limit. Dalton Dale faced four batters in the seventh, striking out two, closing down the win.

Hays improves 17-3 on the year and moves on to the state baseball tournament for a 13th time in program history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621514948018.jpeg" alt="HHS baseball wins the 5A regional championship Wednesday at Hays High School. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>HHS baseball wins the 5A regional championship Wednesday at Hays High School. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS - The Hays High baseball scored a run in the bottom of the seventh to defeat Andover then got a combined shutout from Dylan Dreiling and Dalton Dale to defeat Valley Center 4-0 to win their own 5A regional and advance to next week's 5A State Tournament in Wichita.Game 1:&nbsp;Valley Center 4, Kapaun Mr. Carmel 1 Valley Center starter Payton Graham allowed just one run over 6.2 innings as the Hornets beat Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4-1 in the opening game of the day. Jesse Johnson drove two runs in with two outs in the third inning then added another in the top of the seventh for a 4-1 lead.Valley Center improved to 10-11 with the win. Kapaun's season ends at 13-8.Game 2: Hays 5, Andover 4 Hays won their semi-final game in dramatic fashion. Hays and Andover were tied at the end of the first and second innings. The Indians jumped ahead with two runs in the bottom of the fourth on run scoring singles by Remington Cox and Carson Spray.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1051771297&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-19-21-hh-bsb-v-andover-hilights" title="5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Andover Hilights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Andover Hilights</a></div></div>Andover tied the game with single runs in the fifth and sixth. Hays ended the sixth with an unusual double play. Valley Center flew out to right field to score a run. However the runner at first left early after tagging up and was called out when the Indians appealed to first base. The run counted and tied the game at four.The Indians loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh with no outs. Garrett Wellbrock scored the game winning run when a grounder to second base was thrown wide of home plate. Dylan Dreiling took the win in relief.Game 3: Hays 4, Valley Center 0 Hays and Valley Center stayed scoreless threw three innings before Hays scratched a run across in the bottom of the fourth. Remington Cox led the inning off with a double. Noah Weimer scored on a balk call two batters later for a 1-0 lead.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1051821466&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-19-21-hh-bsb-v-valley-center" title="5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Valley Center" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Valley Center</a></div></div>The Indians batted around in the fifth scoring three runs on two hits and four walks. Garrett Wellbrock drove two runs in on a single. Dalyn Schwarz drove in another on a bases loaded walk for a 4-0 advantage.Dylan Dreiling started game two and picked up the win but was lifted after six innings due to reaching the maximum pitch limit. Dalton Dale faced four batters in the seventh, striking out two, closing down the win.Coach Dustin Dreher<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1051821472&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-19-21-coach-int-hh-bsb" title="5 - 19 - 21 Coach Int. HH BSB" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5 - 19 - 21 Coach Int. HH BSB</a></div></div>Hays improves 17-3 on the year and moves on to the state baseball tournament for a 13th time in program history.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What y’all know bout this? <a href="https://t.co/XxgzB8yEXr">pic.twitter.com/XxgzB8yEXr</a>&mdash; Barstool Hays High (@BarstoolHysHigh) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarstoolHysHigh/status/1395204786614685698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

⚾ STATE BOUND! Indians win own regional 

On this episode of Forward Ever; Leading in Challenging Times, Gary Shorman&nbsp;speaks with&nbsp;Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams" 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=2ghen-1040000-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever; Leading in Challenging Times, Gary Shorman&nbsp;speaks with&nbsp;Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams.

🎤Forward Ever: Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams

<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — Dillons stores will change their mask policy to follow CDC guidelines starting Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fully-vaccinated
 customers and most fully-vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a
 mask in Dillons stores, distribution centers, plants, and offices, 
unless otherwise required by state or local jurisdiction. If there is a 
state or local mandate, Dillons will adhere to that requirement and its 
timeline. For Kansas, that includes a mask mandate in the city of 
Lawrence. Non-vaccinated associates will be required to wear a mask.

Associates
 in Dillons pharmacies and clinic locations will be required to continue
 wearing a mask due to the CDC’s guidance for healthcare settings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611251337246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — Dillons stores will change their mask policy to follow CDC guidelines starting Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fully-vaccinated
 customers and most fully-vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a
 mask in Dillons stores, distribution centers, plants, and offices, 
unless otherwise required by state or local jurisdiction. If there is a 
state or local mandate, Dillons will adhere to that requirement and its 
timeline. For Kansas, that includes a mask mandate in the city of 
Lawrence. Non-vaccinated associates will be required to wear a mask.Associates
 in Dillons pharmacies and clinic locations will be required to continue
 wearing a mask due to the CDC’s guidance for healthcare settings.

Dillons updates mask policy beginning Thursday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

How often do you get to pet a t-rex or take your photo with a Triceratops?

You can do both and much more at the <a href="https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>'s latest exhibit "Age of the Dinosaurs" by Kokoro Exhibits. This is the third Kokoro exhibit the museum has hosted. Other exhibits that were staged at the museum included an exhibit on the ice age and the giant insect exhibit from a few years ago.&nbsp;

The exhibit, which features animatronic dinosaurs from the&nbsp;Mesozoic era, displays the dinosaurs with backdrops depicting what likely was their natural habitats.

Rachel Unruh, museum marketing and public relations coordinator, said the exhibit dates back to the 1980s, but still offers plenty to delight visitors.

Unruh said this traveling exhibit differs from the dinosaurs featured under the museum's iconic dome in that the exhibit includes more animatronics and more interactive displays.

"Everyone likes the t-rex because of the growling and the shaking of its head ," she said.

Visitors can also experience several interactive stations, including taking your pictures with a T-Rex or&nbsp;Triceratops, operating the animatronic skeleton of a dinosaur, putting together dinosaur puzzles, exploring more information on a tablet, digging for fossils or listening to different dinosaur calls.

Unruh said the children who have visited the exhibit so far this week have loved hearing the t-rex roar and seeing the Apatosaurus swing it's long neck out over their heads.

"All the little kids laugh at the Stegosaurus&nbsp; because he just likes to open his mouth like he's yawning," Unruh said. "He kind of looks like a turtle, so I think that's why a lot of kids think he's the cutest."

The exhibit not only features adult dinosaurs, but their young. Unruh said recent research indicates dinosaurs may have had more family ties than modern reptiles.

"It is very calming to watch the mom check on its baby," Unruh said of the vignette with the Apatosaurs and its young. "Oh, hey it's you. It almost reminds me of an elephant with its baby. Elephants are tall and gentle like that too."&nbsp;

"You can see how the research has changed and developed," Unruh said. "Some information may be outdated and some may be the same. It is up to you to spot the differences or see the consistencies. It shows science is important, and we are always continuing to learn."

You can hear simulated calls of the dinosaurs throughout the main level of the museum. Unruh said research into dinosaur sound is another field that is evolving.&nbsp;

Although not part of the exhibit, Unruh said researches employed the aid of musicians to simulate the sound of the Saurolophus. The dinosaur has a large crest on its head and looks a lot like the dinosaur Ducky in the"Land Before Time."

The researches used tubes to blow air through a replica of a skull of a&nbsp;Saurolophus. You can find videos online of what that sounded like. The crest on the top of the dinosaurs head was once thought to be a snorkel, but researches now think the crown aided in the dinosaurs in creating sound and communicating, Unruh said.

The exhibit opened over the weekend and will be at the Sternberg through Sept. 7. A video on how the exhibit was set up at the Sternberg is set to be released later on the museum's YouTube channel.

You can also still see the Sternberg's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08b955c0-2592-4104-99f0-92d14a05e2d5">"A Look Inside"</a>&nbsp;exhibit, but hurry the exhibit will be headed out as soon as it is booked with another museum.&nbsp;

The Sternberg Museum is following CDC and Fort Hays State University policies in regards to masks. Those visitors who have been vaccinated will not required to wear masks.&nbsp;

Unruh said the museum is becoming increasingly busy as school lets out and COVID restrictions ease. Social distancing is still easy to maintain at the museum, she said.

Unruh said more people are wanting to get their families out of the house, and the museum can be a fun excursion that requires little planning or an alternative to outdoor activities on days with inclement weather.

A couple from West Virginia stayed overnight in Hays Tuesday as part of a cross country trip so they could take their three grandchildren, who are from Ireland, to the museum Wednesday. They couple, who have fossil and mineral businesses in West Virginia and Colorado Springs, said they thought it would be a fun stop for the children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621446964709.jpeg" alt="James Carr, 8, of Ireland and his grandmother of West Virginia watches a t-rex move and roar in the Sternberg Museum of Natural History's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."" />
 <figcaption>James Carr, 8, of Ireland and his grandmother of West Virginia watches a t-rex move and roar in the Sternberg Museum of Natural History's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHow often do you get to pet a t-rex or take your photo with a Triceratops?You can do both and much more at the <a href="https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>'s latest exhibit "Age of the Dinosaurs" by Kokoro Exhibits. This is the third Kokoro exhibit the museum has hosted. Other exhibits that were staged at the museum included an exhibit on the ice age and the giant insect exhibit from a few years ago.&nbsp;The exhibit, which features animatronic dinosaurs from the&nbsp;Mesozoic era, displays the dinosaurs with backdrops depicting what likely was their natural habitats.Rachel Unruh, museum marketing and public relations coordinator, said the exhibit dates back to the 1980s, but still offers plenty to delight visitors.Unruh said this traveling exhibit differs from the dinosaurs featured under the museum's iconic dome in that the exhibit includes more animatronics and more interactive displays."Everyone likes the t-rex because of the growling and the shaking of its head ," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621447303210.jpeg" alt="A t-rex head visitors can touch and be photographed with is part of the Sternberg's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."" />
 <figcaption>A t-rex head visitors can touch and be photographed with is part of the Sternberg's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."</figcaption>
 </figure>Visitors can also experience several interactive stations, including taking your pictures with a T-Rex or&nbsp;Triceratops, operating the animatronic skeleton of a dinosaur, putting together dinosaur puzzles, exploring more information on a tablet, digging for fossils or listening to different dinosaur calls.Unruh said the children who have visited the exhibit so far this week have loved hearing the t-rex roar and seeing the Apatosaurus swing it's long neck out over their heads."All the little kids laugh at the Stegosaurus&nbsp; because he just likes to open his mouth like he's yawning," Unruh said. "He kind of looks like a turtle, so I think that's why a lot of kids think he's the cutest."The exhibit not only features adult dinosaurs, but their young. Unruh said recent research indicates dinosaurs may have had more family ties than modern reptiles."It is very calming to watch the mom check on its baby," Unruh said of the vignette with the Apatosaurs and its young. "Oh, hey it's you. It almost reminds me of an elephant with its baby. Elephants are tall and gentle like that too."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621447913590.jpeg" alt="Several of the vignettes in&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" depict dinosaurs with their young. This vignette depicts two Protoceratops with a nest of hatching eggs." />
 <figcaption>Several of the vignettes in&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" depict dinosaurs with their young. This vignette depicts two Protoceratops with a nest of hatching eggs.</figcaption>
 </figure>"You can see how the research has changed and developed," Unruh said. "Some information may be outdated and some may be the same. It is up to you to spot the differences or see the consistencies. It shows science is important, and we are always continuing to learn."You can hear simulated calls of the dinosaurs throughout the main level of the museum. Unruh said research into dinosaur sound is another field that is evolving.&nbsp;Although not part of the exhibit, Unruh said researches employed the aid of musicians to simulate the sound of the Saurolophus. The dinosaur has a large crest on its head and looks a lot like the dinosaur Ducky in the"Land Before Time."The researches used tubes to blow air through a replica of a skull of a&nbsp;Saurolophus. You can find videos online of what that sounded like. The crest on the top of the dinosaurs head was once thought to be a snorkel, but researches now think the crown aided in the dinosaurs in creating sound and communicating, Unruh said.The exhibit opened over the weekend and will be at the Sternberg through Sept. 7. A video on how the exhibit was set up at the Sternberg is set to be released later on the museum's YouTube channel.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621448124900.jpeg" alt="An Apatosaurs in the&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" exhibit on display now at the Sternberg Museum." />
 <figcaption>An Apatosaurs in the&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" exhibit on display now at the Sternberg Museum.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can also still see the Sternberg's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08b955c0-2592-4104-99f0-92d14a05e2d5">"A Look Inside"</a>&nbsp;exhibit, but hurry the exhibit will be headed out as soon as it is booked with another museum.&nbsp;The Sternberg Museum is following CDC and Fort Hays State University policies in regards to masks. Those visitors who have been vaccinated will not required to wear masks.&nbsp;Unruh said the museum is becoming increasingly busy as school lets out and COVID restrictions ease. Social distancing is still easy to maintain at the museum, she said.Unruh said more people are wanting to get their families out of the house, and the museum can be a fun excursion that requires little planning or an alternative to outdoor activities on days with inclement weather.A couple from West Virginia stayed overnight in Hays Tuesday as part of a cross country trip so they could take their three grandchildren, who are from Ireland, to the museum Wednesday. They couple, who have fossil and mineral businesses in West Virginia and Colorado Springs, said they thought it would be a fun stop for the children.

Sternberg opens new exhibit featuring dinosaurs in motion

In response to a request made by the City of Hays, 
the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has 
issued a control order restricting the watering of lawns and other 
vegetation from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September 30.&nbsp;

This measure 
is part of a greater interest to reduce water waste and to improve 
conservation practices in the Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area located in Hays.&nbsp;

The IGUCA in 
Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the City to help 
implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.&nbsp;

Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: the washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways; the known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems; and the escape of water 
from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the
 street guttering from landscape irrigation; in addition to outdoor 
water use between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September
 30.&nbsp;

By restricting daytime outdoor water
 use, including the watering of landscapes and gardens, unnecessary 
water loss due to wind and evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving 
the resource for more efficient use.&nbsp;

All 
residents are encouraged to practice the conservation of natural 
resources, including water, and look for ways to improve conservation 
measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors and out.&nbsp;

City of HaysIn response to a request made by the City of Hays, 
the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has 
issued a control order restricting the watering of lawns and other 
vegetation from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September 30.&nbsp;This measure 
is part of a greater interest to reduce water waste and to improve 
conservation practices in the Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area located in Hays.&nbsp;The IGUCA in 
Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the City to help 
implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.&nbsp;Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: the washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways; the known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems; and the escape of water 
from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the
 street guttering from landscape irrigation; in addition to outdoor 
water use between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September
 30.&nbsp;By restricting daytime outdoor water
 use, including the watering of landscapes and gardens, unnecessary 
water loss due to wind and evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving 
the resource for more efficient use.&nbsp;All 
residents are encouraged to practice the conservation of natural 
resources, including water, and look for ways to improve conservation 
measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors and out.&nbsp;

Water conservation measures implemented in Hays

TOPEKA — Leadership Kansas, one of the country's oldest and most distinguished statewide leadership programs, on Monday announced the class of 2021 for its new program aimed at the state's young professionals -Kansas Emerging Leaders.

"Leadership Kansas created KEL to give outstanding young leaders a format to learn more about our great state and the opportunities within Kansas for professional growth," said LK Executive Director Jeff Chapman. "KEL also will provide personal leadership investment as well as connections for future interest in LK and expanded community involvement." Chapman said KEL was developed based on feedback from the more than 1,400 Leadership Kansas alumni who believed the state needed a leadership program for Kansans between 22 and 32 years old. Eligibility requirements include:

"We want these young leaders to learn about Kansas and why they should remain here for the future.," said KEL Board of Advisors Chairwoman, Jen Sanderson, LK Class of 2009.

Nominations for KEL's 2022 class may be submitted at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001M0qadJoC1D1k6-f8KRgGXCcFJkZzngJwNPhpMeF4CRXq8E4U5KV6iVbx681oO7mWxJzzH5rSnuAi3sUtNWiLygKIVr9fJ2iUZB4wX7fuLhFa4UaME9ixTvo6nNVwaPX55r1lFDpk7ns2B7IYilZbvPiNCikOjxBgzsLGrurw5KE=&amp;c=zD6QhI8eanPJx8FlY-Pb1Dhn0vPxePEpKTKb001h7trcQuNgS7nmHA==&amp;ch=rbP6bsnLc-WJyo_H35XGaPnrY2U7qslUNuQF-JmZebmXxQUotF1law==&amp;jrc=1" target="_blank">www.LeadershipKansas.org/nominate-KEL</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621268606936.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leadership KansasTOPEKA — Leadership Kansas, one of the country's oldest and most distinguished statewide leadership programs, on Monday announced the class of 2021 for its new program aimed at the state's young professionals -Kansas Emerging Leaders.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621345140698.jpeg" alt="Teryn Carmichael,&nbsp;executive director,&nbsp;Bird City Century II Development Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Teryn Carmichael,&nbsp;executive director,&nbsp;Bird City Century II Development Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>"Leadership Kansas created KEL to give outstanding young leaders a format to learn more about our great state and the opportunities within Kansas for professional growth," said LK Executive Director Jeff Chapman. "KEL also will provide personal leadership investment as well as connections for future interest in LK and expanded community involvement." Chapman said KEL was developed based on feedback from the more than 1,400 Leadership Kansas alumni who believed the state needed a leadership program for Kansans between 22 and 32 years old. Eligibility requirements include: <ul>
 <li>Must work or live in Kansas.</li><li>Must be an outstanding leader, who have been involved in campus or community programs.</li><li>Must express an interest to stay in Kansas and become more involved.</li>
 </ul> "We want these young leaders to learn about Kansas and why they should remain here for the future.," said KEL Board of Advisors Chairwoman, Jen Sanderson, LK Class of 2009.Nominations for KEL's 2022 class may be submitted at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001M0qadJoC1D1k6-f8KRgGXCcFJkZzngJwNPhpMeF4CRXq8E4U5KV6iVbx681oO7mWxJzzH5rSnuAi3sUtNWiLygKIVr9fJ2iUZB4wX7fuLhFa4UaME9ixTvo6nNVwaPX55r1lFDpk7ns2B7IYilZbvPiNCikOjxBgzsLGrurw5KE=&amp;c=zD6QhI8eanPJx8FlY-Pb1Dhn0vPxePEpKTKb001h7trcQuNgS7nmHA==&amp;ch=rbP6bsnLc-WJyo_H35XGaPnrY2U7qslUNuQF-JmZebmXxQUotF1law==&amp;jrc=1" target="_blank">www.LeadershipKansas.org/nominate-KEL</a>.

Bird City woman named to 2021 Kansas Emerging Leaders Class

We conclude not just another academic year – but a year when Fort Hays State University not only survived the pandemic, but thrived. That is resilience in action.

I am deeply grateful to the entire campus and local community who came together to ensure our students, colleagues, and neighbors were well cared for as we blazed our path together. The challenges of the past year did not deter our community from our relentless student-centered and learning-focused priorities.&nbsp;

I think I might have been standing a little taller as our graduates celebrated their sweet victories last week. I know my smile was bigger. What a year!

In addition to commencement ceremonies, we also had the opportunity to say thank you to our retirees. This year, we honored both our 2020 and 2021 retirees –57 colleagues who provided a total of 1,443 years of service to FHSU. We also congratulated our faculty who earned tenure and promotions.&nbsp;

While there were several other accomplishments celebrated in the past few weeks, I would like to take the opportunity to highlight a small sample of accolades earned by our faculty and staff this spring.&nbsp;

Laura Wilson, associate professor of geosciences, was featured on the Paleo Nerds podcast. I have become a big fan of podcasts and was so proud of Laura to have been chosen for this interview. Intrigued? Download the podcast and listen to episode 30: Diving into Hell’s Aquarium with Laura Wilson.

Kim Chappell, assistant professor of advanced education programs, received a grant to enhance our partnership with Seward County Community College to develop a team-teaching model to improve student learning in career and technical education.

Our counseling program earned accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs. This rigorous self-study and peer evaluation process entails an assessment of the program’s resources, objectives, strengths, and limitations with the ultimate purpose of improving the educational effectiveness of the program. Accreditation signifies that the content and quality of the program was evaluated and meets standards set by the profession. Students can be assured that appropriate knowledge and skill areas are taught and that the program is stable – professionally and financially.&nbsp;

Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, received two Kansas NASA Spacegrant awards to conduct teacher workshops on engineering for middle school teachers and high altitude balloon launch system to support teacher and student research. Yes, I cannot resist it: Dr. Adams is far out!

Matthew Clay, assistant professor in teacher education, and Scott Gregory, director of Field Experiences, were awarded the Teacher Education Competitive Grant from the Kansas Board of Regents. This grant was established to increase the number of licensed teachers in hard-to-fill disciplines and/or underserved geographic areas of the state. This has always been a priority of Fort Hays State. Did you know that in 1911 our faculty voted to offer correspondence courses free so that one-room school teachers across western Kansas could afford to gain the education required to teach? That in a nutshell describes our passion for access and affordability and why we are the best value in higher education – anywhere.

Eric Deneault, associate professor of applied technology, was listed among the 2021 leaders to watch by the journal, Technology and Engineering Teacher. This annual list recognizes those who have contributed to the technology and engineering education field for many years and are known for their teaching, written work, presentations, research, and recognition received from professional groups.&nbsp;

Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union, was awarded the Founders Award by the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA). The Founders Award is the association’s highest honor, given to those individuals who, during the years, have given their time and talents to contribute significantly to NACA. Edie has exemplified the standards of professional integrity and conduct, achieved stature in her profession, holds the esteem of colleagues and peers, and has worked to further the field of campus activities programming. This is not only a proud moment for all of us to share with Edie but another signal that Tiger Nation excels in the classroom as well as in the delivery of student services and student life.

<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>We conclude not just another academic year – but a year when Fort Hays State University not only survived the pandemic, but thrived. That is resilience in action.I am deeply grateful to the entire campus and local community who came together to ensure our students, colleagues, and neighbors were well cared for as we blazed our path together. The challenges of the past year did not deter our community from our relentless student-centered and learning-focused priorities.&nbsp;I think I might have been standing a little taller as our graduates celebrated their sweet victories last week. I know my smile was bigger. What a year!In addition to commencement ceremonies, we also had the opportunity to say thank you to our retirees. This year, we honored both our 2020 and 2021 retirees –57 colleagues who provided a total of 1,443 years of service to FHSU. We also congratulated our faculty who earned tenure and promotions.&nbsp;While there were several other accomplishments celebrated in the past few weeks, I would like to take the opportunity to highlight a small sample of accolades earned by our faculty and staff this spring.&nbsp;Laura Wilson, associate professor of geosciences, was featured on the Paleo Nerds podcast. I have become a big fan of podcasts and was so proud of Laura to have been chosen for this interview. Intrigued? Download the podcast and listen to episode 30: Diving into Hell’s Aquarium with Laura Wilson.Kim Chappell, assistant professor of advanced education programs, received a grant to enhance our partnership with Seward County Community College to develop a team-teaching model to improve student learning in career and technical education.Our counseling program earned accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs. This rigorous self-study and peer evaluation process entails an assessment of the program’s resources, objectives, strengths, and limitations with the ultimate purpose of improving the educational effectiveness of the program. Accreditation signifies that the content and quality of the program was evaluated and meets standards set by the profession. Students can be assured that appropriate knowledge and skill areas are taught and that the program is stable – professionally and financially.&nbsp;Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, received two Kansas NASA Spacegrant awards to conduct teacher workshops on engineering for middle school teachers and high altitude balloon launch system to support teacher and student research. Yes, I cannot resist it: Dr. Adams is far out!Matthew Clay, assistant professor in teacher education, and Scott Gregory, director of Field Experiences, were awarded the Teacher Education Competitive Grant from the Kansas Board of Regents. This grant was established to increase the number of licensed teachers in hard-to-fill disciplines and/or underserved geographic areas of the state. This has always been a priority of Fort Hays State. Did you know that in 1911 our faculty voted to offer correspondence courses free so that one-room school teachers across western Kansas could afford to gain the education required to teach? That in a nutshell describes our passion for access and affordability and why we are the best value in higher education – anywhere.Eric Deneault, associate professor of applied technology, was listed among the 2021 leaders to watch by the journal, Technology and Engineering Teacher. This annual list recognizes those who have contributed to the technology and engineering education field for many years and are known for their teaching, written work, presentations, research, and recognition received from professional groups.&nbsp;Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union, was awarded the Founders Award by the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA). The Founders Award is the association’s highest honor, given to those individuals who, during the years, have given their time and talents to contribute significantly to NACA. Edie has exemplified the standards of professional integrity and conduct, achieved stature in her profession, holds the esteem of colleagues and peers, and has worked to further the field of campus activities programming. This is not only a proud moment for all of us to share with Edie but another signal that Tiger Nation excels in the classroom as well as in the delivery of student services and student life.Leslie Paige, research and scholarship coordinator, won the Presidential Award from the National Association of School Psychologists. This award recognizes excellence in the provision of school psychological services by a field-based practitioner and serves to recognize an outstanding practicing school psychologist. Leslie has earned this award four times! &nbsp;Three faculty in the Department of Geosciences – Todd Moore, associate professor; Rich Lisichenko, professor; and Tom Schafer, associate professor – were awarded research funding from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) to collect samples of drinking water from domestic water wells in the alluvial plains of Prairie Dog, Sappa, and Beaver Creeks in northwest Kansas. Once KDHE tests these samples for commonly occurring contaminants, the Department of Geosciences will map and spatially analyze the results. What a great service to our region.Teresa Clounch, assistant vice president for student affairs, was elected to serve on the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) board of directors. The NASPA board establishes the association’s strategic goals and ensures that they are being achieved. NASPA is the leading association for the advancement, health, and sustainability of the student affairs profession. The association provides high-quality professional development, advocacy, and research for 15,000 members in all 50 states, 25 countries, and eight U.S. territories. As part of her service to the national board, Teresa will also serve as the IV-West regional director. The IV-West encompasses the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming, as well as the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.Christy Craig, associate professor of sociology, was featured in the Washington Post for her research on women’s book clubs: <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/03/27/womens-book-clubs-history-oprah-reese/">https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/03/27/womens-book-clubs-history-oprah-reese/</a>. Great read!Also featured in the Washington Post was the very interesting research on Tornado Alley by Grady Dixon, dean of the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics. His work was also featured in Forbes: <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2021/03/30/why-using-dixie-alley-to-describe-tornadoes-in-the-south-is-a-problem/?sh=500a67905259">https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2021/03/30/why-using-dixie-alley-to-describe-tornadoes-in-the-south-is-a-problem/?sh=500a67905259</a>. Another article I enjoyed. I’ll bet you will, too.Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” This is exactly how I feel about Tiger Nation – a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens making our university, communities, and the world better every day.

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