The Copper Street Brass is the premier brass chamber ensemble in Minnesota and one of only a handful of self-sustaining brass groups in the country. They were founded in 2008 as a professionally trained classical chamber music ensemble with two trumpets, horn, trombone and tuba. They perform&nbsp;exclusively their own music, which is an original blend of musical styles from Mozart to&nbsp;Madonna, and&nbsp;perform dozens of concerts and outreach programs each season.&nbsp;In Colby, they will present “That 70s Show," which includes music from 1770s, 1870s and 1970s.&nbsp;

The Mission of the Copper Street Brass is to represent the “Evolution of the Brass Quintet” through inventive concerts, engaging educational programs, and original musical arrangements. Also used in instrumentation are keyboards, guitar, percussion, and electronic instruments. Copper Street Brass performs their concert at 3 p.m. CDT Sunday, Oct. 2, in the Cultural Arts Center, Colby, KS. Partial support for this program is given by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Admission is season ticket or at the door; Adults, $20; Students, $10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663681211371.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Copper Street Brass is the premier brass chamber ensemble in Minnesota and one of only a handful of self-sustaining brass groups in the country. They were founded in 2008 as a professionally trained classical chamber music ensemble with two trumpets, horn, trombone and tuba. They perform&nbsp;exclusively their own music, which is an original blend of musical styles from Mozart to&nbsp;Madonna, and&nbsp;perform dozens of concerts and outreach programs each season.&nbsp;In Colby, they will present “That 70s Show," which includes music from 1770s, 1870s and 1970s.&nbsp;The Mission of the Copper Street Brass is to represent the “Evolution of the Brass Quintet” through inventive concerts, engaging educational programs, and original musical arrangements. Also used in instrumentation are keyboards, guitar, percussion, and electronic instruments. Copper Street Brass performs their concert at 3 p.m. CDT Sunday, Oct. 2, in the Cultural Arts Center, Colby, KS. Partial support for this program is given by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Admission is season ticket or at the door; Adults, $20; Students, $10.

Copper Street Brass will present 'That 70s Show' in Colby

Get ready for flu season by scheduling a flu vaccine, starting Oct. 3 at the Ellis County Health Department, 2507 Canterbury.

~Regular Flu (ages 6 month+) ~Flublok (ages 18+ &amp; egg-free) ~High Dose (ages 65+)

Follow the link here to schedule:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5a9rmu5j?fbclid=IwAR1QdZv8qhEJWiGT3lLuGlsH4fWn3CIaohMDfPm4lgeKX1X9FUFSidxjZ78" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5a9rmu5j</a>

To schedule an on-site business flu clinic or for more information, call&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5a9rmu5j?fbclid=IwAR1QdZv8qhEJWiGT3lLuGlsH4fWn3CIaohMDfPm4lgeKX1X9FUFSidxjZ78" target="_blank"></a>785-628-9440.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659648134471.jpg" alt="(Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Get ready for flu season by scheduling a flu vaccine, starting Oct. 3 at the Ellis County Health Department, 2507 Canterbury.These flu options will be available:~Regular Flu (ages 6 month+) ~Flublok (ages 18+ &amp; egg-free) ~High Dose (ages 65+)Follow the link here to schedule:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5a9rmu5j?fbclid=IwAR1QdZv8qhEJWiGT3lLuGlsH4fWn3CIaohMDfPm4lgeKX1X9FUFSidxjZ78" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5a9rmu5j</a>To schedule an on-site business flu clinic or for more information, call&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5a9rmu5j?fbclid=IwAR1QdZv8qhEJWiGT3lLuGlsH4fWn3CIaohMDfPm4lgeKX1X9FUFSidxjZ78" target="_blank"></a>785-628-9440.

Flu shots available in October at Ellis County Health Department

Landri Dotts, a 2022 graduate of Hays High School, is on the roster of the cheer team at Kansas State University.

In high schools, she particpated in cross country, basketball, track, cheer, leadership, National Honors Society and Spirit Club, among others.

Dotts, daughter of Wayne and Mandi Dotts, is a life sciences and nursing major at K-State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663877881782.png" alt="K-State photo" />
 <figcaption>K-State photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Landri Dotts, a 2022 graduate of Hays High School, is on the roster of the cheer team at Kansas State University.In high schools, she particpated in cross country, basketball, track, cheer, leadership, National Honors Society and Spirit Club, among others.Dotts, daughter of Wayne and Mandi Dotts, is a life sciences and nursing major at K-State.

Hays High grad on K-State cheer roster

Thank you to our generous sponsors for the 5K for a Cause Color Run this Saturday. All proceeds will be donated to the Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas. 

The Color Run is a Senior Capstone Project presented by Sophia Allen and Julianna Baalmann. 

Sponsors include Hays Nutrition, Paul-Wertenberger Construction, Herman Physical Therapy, Cornerstone Orthodontist, Thirsty's Brew Pub and Grill, FIT 159, Jeff Pinkney CPA, and First Care Clinic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663857140043.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thank you to our generous sponsors for the 5K for a Cause Color Run this Saturday. All proceeds will be donated to the Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas. The Color Run is a Senior Capstone Project presented by Sophia Allen and Julianna Baalmann. Sponsors include Hays Nutrition, Paul-Wertenberger Construction, Herman Physical Therapy, Cornerstone Orthodontist, Thirsty's Brew Pub and Grill, FIT 159, Jeff Pinkney CPA, and First Care Clinic.

5K For a Cause Color Run part of TMP-M's homecoming celebration

Russell's Cornhole Tournament coming up 09.30.22. 

Register at 5:30 pm - Bags fly at 6:30 pm - prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd!

<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.russellmainstreet.com%2Fbricksbroncsbbq%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3Xsp2mSETX4YBm6Tgds-y_VAmhJ7fW0iUZp9J8MMCQzL6QiAos0UjN01k%23register&amp;h=AT1tA0H7ntcpZl-AbZxz5Y79j-chmUgQ5sBWMQkFnxjQpRslf6J7yeXsP7UX4eB_taT2B33tskL637ByjbNSReaoQK0kmClflYCvLGrN6D-T2Y7PxU23kOY_gY-vhujG6Lxm&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3dTP3AqyrZRKJs3bHO3vKutXHox5qCzrMJFYKr-YIqAAHMVw5NawQ-R_HmichBakhFzPPi2mjEmD4N0D7_0lFOTw3nalcveBGQ4LmoMDoeG_wCB-d1jrDQP8FukSyyg2g2GvNsNSTR1n_jO3Fsv06XIPk5XIPIKDvDaXY3hdmccS-7pHFx3WqW4fqQifLOQlU9061LSjoOVMgqntXIVLZ7sT8pFUneiY6mn0Y" target="_blank">https://www.russellmainstreet.com/bricksbroncsbbq#register</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663856327161.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell's Cornhole Tournament coming up 09.30.22. Register at 5:30 pm - Bags fly at 6:30 pm - prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd!Bring your own bags - - - or don't!See you there! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.russellmainstreet.com%2Fbricksbroncsbbq%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3Xsp2mSETX4YBm6Tgds-y_VAmhJ7fW0iUZp9J8MMCQzL6QiAos0UjN01k%23register&amp;h=AT1tA0H7ntcpZl-AbZxz5Y79j-chmUgQ5sBWMQkFnxjQpRslf6J7yeXsP7UX4eB_taT2B33tskL637ByjbNSReaoQK0kmClflYCvLGrN6D-T2Y7PxU23kOY_gY-vhujG6Lxm&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3dTP3AqyrZRKJs3bHO3vKutXHox5qCzrMJFYKr-YIqAAHMVw5NawQ-R_HmichBakhFzPPi2mjEmD4N0D7_0lFOTw3nalcveBGQ4LmoMDoeG_wCB-d1jrDQP8FukSyyg2g2GvNsNSTR1n_jO3Fsv06XIPk5XIPIKDvDaXY3hdmccS-7pHFx3WqW4fqQifLOQlU9061LSjoOVMgqntXIVLZ7sT8pFUneiY6mn0Y" target="_blank">https://www.russellmainstreet.com/bricksbroncsbbq#register</a>

Russell Cornhole Tourney is part of Bricks, Broncs, & BBQ

Pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans, potato salad, chips, and dessert. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663855331597.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Come out and help a family in need.Pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans, potato salad, chips, and dessert. To go orders available,

Benefit meal Friday for Norton man

Introducing a uniquely named larger-than-life main character, one with heroic qualities in an unusual setting, will immediately capture the audience's attention at the Kansas Storytelling Tall Tale Contest. The annual tall tale contest will be October 8, in Downs, Kansas, at 7 p.m., at the Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1019 Blunt St.

A tall tale is a story with fantastical elements as if it were factual. Some tall tales are exaggerations of actual events, such as the clever and cunning fish that got away, told by last year's winner, Rich White, McPherson. Other tall tales are fictional tales set in a familiar setting and experiences such as bird hunting in a state park in the fall or the shenanigans of friends growing up.&nbsp;

Kenneth Lee, Master Storyteller shares, "It's good to include a character with extraordinary abilities, extraordinary. You also want to include a humorous way to solve a problem, mixing in some exaggeration and credible details."&nbsp;

"Sprinkle in clever twists and puns throughout the story," said Allen Debey, Kansas Storytelling Festival Tall Tales winner, and professional storyteller.&nbsp;

"The story's last lines should make the audience chuckle or groan." Michael Gutierrez, a committee member, adds. It's also important to practice so that the story is within the time limit of 7 minutes. The popular October preliminary contest will narrow down the contestants who will move on to vie for the traveling trophy, the storytelling shovel, at the Kansas Storytelling Festival Tall Tale Contest in April.

Mark October 8 on your calendar if you will be telling a larger-than-life story AND if you intend to come and listen to some great tall tales. Encourage friends who always have you in stitches or on the edge of your chair with their storytelling. There's no better time than now to tell their tales.&nbsp;

Audience participation is essential because attendees have a deciding vote along with a panel of judges. The event is free with snacks during intermission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information and to register to tell a story in the competition, call 785-454-1177 or email <a href="mailto:kansasstorytelling@gmail.com" target="_blank">kansasstorytelling@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663680280530.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedIntroducing a uniquely named larger-than-life main character, one with heroic qualities in an unusual setting, will immediately capture the audience's attention at the Kansas Storytelling Tall Tale Contest. The annual tall tale contest will be October 8, in Downs, Kansas, at 7 p.m., at the Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1019 Blunt St.A tall tale is a story with fantastical elements as if it were factual. Some tall tales are exaggerations of actual events, such as the clever and cunning fish that got away, told by last year's winner, Rich White, McPherson. Other tall tales are fictional tales set in a familiar setting and experiences such as bird hunting in a state park in the fall or the shenanigans of friends growing up.&nbsp;Kenneth Lee, Master Storyteller shares, "It's good to include a character with extraordinary abilities, extraordinary. You also want to include a humorous way to solve a problem, mixing in some exaggeration and credible details."&nbsp;"Sprinkle in clever twists and puns throughout the story," said Allen Debey, Kansas Storytelling Festival Tall Tales winner, and professional storyteller.&nbsp;"The story's last lines should make the audience chuckle or groan." Michael Gutierrez, a committee member, adds. It's also important to practice so that the story is within the time limit of 7 minutes. The popular October preliminary contest will narrow down the contestants who will move on to vie for the traveling trophy, the storytelling shovel, at the Kansas Storytelling Festival Tall Tale Contest in April. Mark October 8 on your calendar if you will be telling a larger-than-life story AND if you intend to come and listen to some great tall tales. Encourage friends who always have you in stitches or on the edge of your chair with their storytelling. There's no better time than now to tell their tales.&nbsp;Audience participation is essential because attendees have a deciding vote along with a panel of judges. The event is free with snacks during intermission.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information and to register to tell a story in the competition, call 785-454-1177 or email <a href="mailto:kansasstorytelling@gmail.com" target="_blank">kansasstorytelling@gmail.com</a>.

Kansas Tall Tales preliminaries set for next month in Downs

Go Truck Go Family event set for Thursday

Democratic AG candidate schedules Hays visit

Holy Family Elementary's Cajetan Ca$h raffle fundraiser is going on now through Sept. 30.&nbsp; The name Cajetan is derived from St. Cajetan, who is the patron saint of good fortune.&nbsp; 

The raffle drawing will be for four cash prizes ($1,000; $2,500; $5,000, $10,000). You must be 18 years or older to purchase tickets. Tickets are only $10 and may be purchased by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://cajetancash.rallybound.org/">cajetancash.rallybound.org</a>&nbsp;or contacting any HFE student.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663685899491.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Holy Family Elementary's Cajetan Ca$h raffle fundraiser is going on now through Sept. 30.&nbsp; The name Cajetan is derived from St. Cajetan, who is the patron saint of good fortune.&nbsp; The raffle drawing will be for four cash prizes ($1,000; $2,500; $5,000, $10,000). You must be 18 years or older to purchase tickets. Tickets are only $10 and may be purchased by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://cajetancash.rallybound.org/">cajetancash.rallybound.org</a>&nbsp;or contacting any HFE student.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tickets on sale for annual Cejetan Ca$h fundraiser

LOGAN — On Saturday, Oct. 1, the&nbsp;Hansen&nbsp;Museum&nbsp;is celebrating 50 years of bringing art and culture to the people of Northwest Kansas&nbsp;with an afternoon celebration. &nbsp;The&nbsp;party&nbsp;starts with&nbsp;a nostalgic presentation by Hansen Museum Board Member Debra Berg&nbsp;at 2 p.m. in the&nbsp;Hansen Museum’s&nbsp;Community&nbsp;Room.&nbsp;After Berg’s&nbsp;trip down Museum&nbsp;memory lane,&nbsp;a drawing&nbsp;to giveaway a&nbsp;majestic&nbsp;eagle chainsaw carving from artist Blair Smith will be held.&nbsp;Note,&nbsp;only&nbsp;those in attendance of the presentation are&nbsp;entered in the drawing.&nbsp; Next, the party will move to the Museum’s south lawn where&nbsp;one of America’s&nbsp;most&nbsp;loved performers,&nbsp;Michael Martin Murphey and trio,&nbsp;will&nbsp;perform. &nbsp;Following Murphey’s&nbsp;free&nbsp;concert, cake and homemade ice cream will be served while supplies last. &nbsp;

Michael Martin Murphey hits include&nbsp;Wildfire,&nbsp;Carolina In The Pines,&nbsp;What's Forever For,&nbsp;A Long Line of Love,&nbsp;Cosmic&nbsp;Cowboy,&nbsp;Geronimo’s Cadillac,&nbsp;Cherokee Fiddle,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Boy From The Country. &nbsp;One of America’s most respected songwriters, his songs have been recorded by multiple artists including&nbsp;John Denver, Kenny Rogers, Cher, Lyle Lovett, Flatt &amp; Scruggs, Hoyt Axton, Roger Miller, Bobbie Gentry,&nbsp;Michael Nesmith,and The Monkees.&nbsp;Inducted into the Texas Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 2009&nbsp;and&nbsp;an inductee into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame&nbsp;in&nbsp;2009, as well as a member of the Nebraska&nbsp;Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame—this&nbsp;will be&nbsp;an epic party, one&nbsp;for the books.

Bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the concert&nbsp;on the Hansen Museum lawn.&nbsp;Parking will be available on both sides and in the middle of Main Street, in the lot across from the Logan City Building on&nbsp;North&nbsp;Mill&nbsp;Street,&nbsp;on&nbsp;both sides&nbsp;of&nbsp;Douglas Street and&nbsp;in&nbsp;lots north and south of the First Christian&nbsp;Church&nbsp;along Douglas&nbsp;Street.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CL_B84EK7-0"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLOGAN — On Saturday, Oct. 1, the&nbsp;Hansen&nbsp;Museum&nbsp;is celebrating 50 years of bringing art and culture to the people of Northwest Kansas&nbsp;with an afternoon celebration. &nbsp;The&nbsp;party&nbsp;starts with&nbsp;a nostalgic presentation by Hansen Museum Board Member Debra Berg&nbsp;at 2 p.m. in the&nbsp;Hansen Museum’s&nbsp;Community&nbsp;Room.&nbsp;After Berg’s&nbsp;trip down Museum&nbsp;memory lane,&nbsp;a drawing&nbsp;to giveaway a&nbsp;majestic&nbsp;eagle chainsaw carving from artist Blair Smith will be held.&nbsp;Note,&nbsp;only&nbsp;those in attendance of the presentation are&nbsp;entered in the drawing.&nbsp; Next, the party will move to the Museum’s south lawn where&nbsp;one of America’s&nbsp;most&nbsp;loved performers,&nbsp;Michael Martin Murphey and trio,&nbsp;will&nbsp;perform. &nbsp;Following Murphey’s&nbsp;free&nbsp;concert, cake and homemade ice cream will be served while supplies last. &nbsp;Michael Martin Murphey hits include&nbsp;Wildfire,&nbsp;Carolina In The Pines,&nbsp;What's Forever For,&nbsp;A Long Line of Love,&nbsp;Cosmic&nbsp;Cowboy,&nbsp;Geronimo’s Cadillac,&nbsp;Cherokee Fiddle,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Boy From The Country. &nbsp;One of America’s most respected songwriters, his songs have been recorded by multiple artists including&nbsp;John Denver, Kenny Rogers, Cher, Lyle Lovett, Flatt &amp; Scruggs, Hoyt Axton, Roger Miller, Bobbie Gentry,&nbsp;Michael Nesmith,and The Monkees.&nbsp;Inducted into the Texas Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 2009&nbsp;and&nbsp;an inductee into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame&nbsp;in&nbsp;2009, as well as a member of the Nebraska&nbsp;Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame—this&nbsp;will be&nbsp;an epic party, one&nbsp;for the books.Bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the concert&nbsp;on the Hansen Museum lawn.&nbsp;Parking will be available on both sides and in the middle of Main Street, in the lot across from the Logan City Building on&nbsp;North&nbsp;Mill&nbsp;Street,&nbsp;on&nbsp;both sides&nbsp;of&nbsp;Douglas Street and&nbsp;in&nbsp;lots north and south of the First Christian&nbsp;Church&nbsp;along Douglas&nbsp;Street.&nbsp;

Hansen Museum's 50th anniversary features Michael Martin Murphey

Re-experience a bustling era of music inspired by post-WWII American optimism. The Hays Symphony will be presenting its first Masterworks Concert, American Tapestry, on Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at FHSU.

The featured composers—Barber, Diamond, Gould and Riegger—represent 20th century American musicians who were influenced by European masters yet managed to capture the bold, adventurous spirit of America.

In&nbsp;Knoxville: Summer of 1915,&nbsp;a small boy listens to the energetic sounds of life around his home in Knoxville, Tennessee. Samuel Barber mimics this musical onomatopoeia by filling his score with atmospheric, stylistic tricks. Listeners will find themselves wandering between childlike feelings of loneliness and wonder alike.&nbsp;

Dr. Ivalah Allen, FHSU Associate Professor and accomplished soprano, has performed as soloist on operatic, symphonic, and oratorio stages throughout the Midwest. She will grace the stage again to deliver Barber’s lyrics.

The Masterworks I Concert is set to include three other prominent works.&nbsp;

David Diamond’s vibrant yet flowing&nbsp;Round for String Orchestra&nbsp;(1944) became a hit with many household-named conductors of the time wanting to program it, including Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland.

Wallingford Constantine Riegger’s work,&nbsp;Dance Rhythms&nbsp;(1954), is full of playful pizzicato in the strings, stabbing notes from the timpani, striking syncopation and lyrical melodies throughout the winds.&nbsp;

Lastly, Morton Gould’s brisk&nbsp;American Symphonette No. 2&nbsp;(1938) excites with vigor and bounce through its lively blend of classical and jazz elements.&nbsp;

Like with all Hays Symphony concerts, attendance is free and open to the public. Following the concert, attendees are invited to the hall’s lobby to meet the musicians at the post-concert reception. This reception is made possible by generous support from the Downtown Hays Development Corporation.&nbsp;

Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hayssymphony.org/">https://www.hayssymphony.org</a>where they can also make donations to sustain free classical music in the Hays community.

SubmittedRe-experience a bustling era of music inspired by post-WWII American optimism. The Hays Symphony will be presenting its first Masterworks Concert, American Tapestry, on Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at FHSU.The featured composers—Barber, Diamond, Gould and Riegger—represent 20th century American musicians who were influenced by European masters yet managed to capture the bold, adventurous spirit of America.In&nbsp;Knoxville: Summer of 1915,&nbsp;a small boy listens to the energetic sounds of life around his home in Knoxville, Tennessee. Samuel Barber mimics this musical onomatopoeia by filling his score with atmospheric, stylistic tricks. Listeners will find themselves wandering between childlike feelings of loneliness and wonder alike.&nbsp;Dr. Ivalah Allen, FHSU Associate Professor and accomplished soprano, has performed as soloist on operatic, symphonic, and oratorio stages throughout the Midwest. She will grace the stage again to deliver Barber’s lyrics.The Masterworks I Concert is set to include three other prominent works.&nbsp;David Diamond’s vibrant yet flowing&nbsp;Round for String Orchestra&nbsp;(1944) became a hit with many household-named conductors of the time wanting to program it, including Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland.Wallingford Constantine Riegger’s work,&nbsp;Dance Rhythms&nbsp;(1954), is full of playful pizzicato in the strings, stabbing notes from the timpani, striking syncopation and lyrical melodies throughout the winds.&nbsp;Lastly, Morton Gould’s brisk&nbsp;American Symphonette No. 2&nbsp;(1938) excites with vigor and bounce through its lively blend of classical and jazz elements.&nbsp;Like with all Hays Symphony concerts, attendance is free and open to the public. Following the concert, attendees are invited to the hall’s lobby to meet the musicians at the post-concert reception. This reception is made possible by generous support from the Downtown Hays Development Corporation.&nbsp;Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hayssymphony.org/">https://www.hayssymphony.org</a>where they can also make donations to sustain free classical music in the Hays community.

Hays Symphony set to present 'American Tapestry' concert 

Beginning at 6 a.m. Monday, Vine Street southbound lanes just south of the 27th Street intersection will be reduced to one lane. 

Repairs should be completed by the end of the day Thursday. Traffic control devices will be in place to direct the traveling public. 

For more information, call (785) 628-7350.

Beginning at 6 a.m. Monday, Vine Street southbound lanes just south of the 27th Street intersection will be reduced to one lane. Repairs should be completed by the end of the day Thursday. Traffic control devices will be in place to direct the traveling public. For more information, call (785) 628-7350.— City of Hays

Portion of Vine reduced to one lane Monday for repairs

Suicide and the stigma attached to it will be the focus of a free public lecture at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

Speaking will be Maria Perez, a clinical pharmacist with Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. in St. Louis. Her talk, titled “Mental Health Awareness: A Focus on Suicide and Stigma,” is part of the John C. Thorns Jr. Memorial Lecture Series. The event is being funded through grants from Midwest Energy and the United Way.

Introducing Perez will be special guest Dave Schramm, who presented the 2019 Thorns lecture. Schramm is a Hays native and an alum and former faculty member at TMP-Marian High School.&nbsp;He has openly shared his own story of surviving a near-fatal suicide attempt and moving forward in recovery. Schramm currently lives in San Francisco and teaches at the University of California-Davis.

Perez’ talk will look at “the importance of raising mental health awareness and the interplay between suicide, mental health conditions, and stigma,” as well as highlighting the resources available to prevent suicide, a news release stated.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one of the co-hosts of the event, 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year. That figure is 1 in 6 for U.S. youths aged 6 to 17. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 34. At least 8.4 million people in the U.S. provide care for an adult with a mental or emotional issue, and those caregivers spend an average of 32 hours per week providing unpaid care.

According to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability, the suicide rate for the state of Kansas rose by more than 60 percent, from 12.02 per 100,000 population in 2000 to 19.5 per 100,000 population in 2020. That gave Kansas the nation’s 13thhighest suicide rate.

The lecture series began in 2016 and is named in memory of John C. Thorns Jr., a former chair of the Fort Hays State University Art Department.

“He was a strong spokesperson for mental health and suicide prevention,” said Ann Leiker, one of the event’s organizers. Leiker recently retired as executive director of the Center for Life Experience, which is also one of the organizations co-hosting this event.&nbsp;

Thorns was on CFLE’s founding board and helped start Healing After Loss of Suicide, one of the center’s grief support groups, Leiker said.

Hosts for the event&nbsp;are the City of Hays, Ellis County, and the United Way through CFLE; PsychU, a free community and online resource library for mental health; Otsuka; Camber Children's Mental Health (previously KVC Hospital); High Plains Mental Health; the Health &amp; Wellness Services at FHSU; and NAMI Hays and NAMI on campus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663173986939.jpeg" alt="Maria Perez " />
 <figcaption>Maria Perez </figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseSuicide and the stigma attached to it will be the focus of a free public lecture at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center.Speaking will be Maria Perez, a clinical pharmacist with Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. in St. Louis. Her talk, titled “Mental Health Awareness: A Focus on Suicide and Stigma,” is part of the John C. Thorns Jr. Memorial Lecture Series. The event is being funded through grants from Midwest Energy and the United Way.Introducing Perez will be special guest Dave Schramm, who presented the 2019 Thorns lecture. Schramm is a Hays native and an alum and former faculty member at TMP-Marian High School.&nbsp;He has openly shared his own story of surviving a near-fatal suicide attempt and moving forward in recovery. Schramm currently lives in San Francisco and teaches at the University of California-Davis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663174059949.png" alt="Dave Schramm " />
 <figcaption>Dave Schramm </figcaption>
 </figure>Perez’ talk will look at “the importance of raising mental health awareness and the interplay between suicide, mental health conditions, and stigma,” as well as highlighting the resources available to prevent suicide, a news release stated.According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one of the co-hosts of the event, 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year. That figure is 1 in 6 for U.S. youths aged 6 to 17. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 34. At least 8.4 million people in the U.S. provide care for an adult with a mental or emotional issue, and those caregivers spend an average of 32 hours per week providing unpaid care.According to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability, the suicide rate for the state of Kansas rose by more than 60 percent, from 12.02 per 100,000 population in 2000 to 19.5 per 100,000 population in 2020. That gave Kansas the nation’s 13thhighest suicide rate.The lecture series began in 2016 and is named in memory of John C. Thorns Jr., a former chair of the Fort Hays State University Art Department.“He was a strong spokesperson for mental health and suicide prevention,” said Ann Leiker, one of the event’s organizers. Leiker recently retired as executive director of the Center for Life Experience, which is also one of the organizations co-hosting this event.&nbsp;Thorns was on CFLE’s founding board and helped start Healing After Loss of Suicide, one of the center’s grief support groups, Leiker said.Hosts for the event&nbsp;are the City of Hays, Ellis County, and the United Way through CFLE; PsychU, a free community and online resource library for mental health; Otsuka; Camber Children's Mental Health (previously KVC Hospital); High Plains Mental Health; the Health &amp; Wellness Services at FHSU; and NAMI Hays and NAMI on campus.

Free lecture in Hays to focus on stigma of suicide

TMP sets military appreciation event

All vehicles are welcome for the Ride to End Alzheimer's Poke Run on Saturday, Oct. 15.

The run will begin at Good Times Motorcycles Sales and Service at 1007 Vine, Hays.

All the stops will be in Hays.&nbsp; The stops will not be in any particular order.&nbsp; Organizers ask that everyone visits each stop to get a punch on their poker run cards.

Stops will be:&nbsp; The Fort Tavern and Patio Bar – 109 W. Seventh Toby Jugs – 104 E. Seventh Sip N Spin – 209 W. 10th Fuzzy’s Taco Shop – 4310 Vine

Final stop with the last punch will be back at Good Times Motorcycles Sales and Service, 1007 Vine.

The event will have a 50/50 raffle, as well as a few other raffle prizes donated by downtown businesses.

The FHSU Motorcycle Club and the Free Tomorrow Motorcycle Club have graciously offered to help with this first-ever poker run.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663363587872.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAll vehicles are welcome for the Ride to End Alzheimer's Poke Run on Saturday, Oct. 15. The run will begin at Good Times Motorcycles Sales and Service at 1007 Vine, Hays. All the stops will be in Hays.&nbsp; The stops will not be in any particular order.&nbsp; Organizers ask that everyone visits each stop to get a punch on their poker run cards.Stops will be:&nbsp; The Fort Tavern and Patio Bar – 109 W. Seventh Toby Jugs – 104 E. Seventh Sip N Spin – 209 W. 10th Fuzzy’s Taco Shop – 4310 VineFinal stop with the last punch will be back at Good Times Motorcycles Sales and Service, 1007 Vine.The event will have a 50/50 raffle, as well as a few other raffle prizes donated by downtown businesses.The FHSU Motorcycle Club and the Free Tomorrow Motorcycle Club have graciously offered to help with this first-ever poker run.For more information, call 785-259-4257.

Ride to End Alzheimer's Poke Run set for Oct. 15

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with The Rockefeller Foundation’s public charity, RF Catalytic Capital, and Project Access to Covid Tests (Project ACT), is now offering free at-home COVID-19 tests to households in all Kansas communities. 

All Kansas households can now visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTYuNjM4MDI4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5BY2Nlc3NDb3ZpZFRlc3RzLm9yZz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.qQHmo3uM6Nw4imW572QSCa3tAwcs6Zk0ho3UYcmhXR4/s/1305913542/br/144148219433-l" target="_blank">AccessCovidTests.org</a>&nbsp;and enter their zip code to place an order for 5 at-home COVID-19 test kits. Amazon will deliver the test kits directly to your house.

Frequent testing is especially important for those with more exposure outside the home, such as kids in school or people who spend time in a group setting. By visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTYuNjM4MDI4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5BY2Nlc3NDb3ZpZFRlc3RzLm9yZz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.BJO1C2-F-avAlhrmQHAAjsKpyjOs4mW3DFxhXoNtQKA/s/1305913542/br/144148219433-l" target="_blank">AccessCovidTests.org</a>, Kansans will be able enter their zip code to order free, rapid, at-home COVID-19 test kits.

Kansans who need more support in ordering may call 866-534-3463 (866-KDHEINF).

This opportunity is currently limited to one order per household. If you need additional testing, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTYuNjM4MDI4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rbm93YmVmb3JleW91Z29rcy5jb20_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.shwdobRxBTxMAYf68jmHi46L_S5nux17FIHN4H_CaOA/s/1305913542/br/144148219433-l" target="_blank">KnowBeforeYouGoKS.com</a>&nbsp;to find a free testing site in your community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638385226439.jpeg" alt="Free COVID-19 tests&nbsp; are now available for all Kansas communities." />
 <figcaption>Free COVID-19 tests&nbsp; are now available for all Kansas communities.</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with The Rockefeller Foundation’s public charity, RF Catalytic Capital, and Project Access to Covid Tests (Project ACT), is now offering free at-home COVID-19 tests to households in all Kansas communities. All Kansas households can now visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTYuNjM4MDI4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5BY2Nlc3NDb3ZpZFRlc3RzLm9yZz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.qQHmo3uM6Nw4imW572QSCa3tAwcs6Zk0ho3UYcmhXR4/s/1305913542/br/144148219433-l" target="_blank">AccessCovidTests.org</a>&nbsp;and enter their zip code to place an order for 5 at-home COVID-19 test kits. Amazon will deliver the test kits directly to your house.Frequent testing is especially important for those with more exposure outside the home, such as kids in school or people who spend time in a group setting. By visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTYuNjM4MDI4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5BY2Nlc3NDb3ZpZFRlc3RzLm9yZz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.BJO1C2-F-avAlhrmQHAAjsKpyjOs4mW3DFxhXoNtQKA/s/1305913542/br/144148219433-l" target="_blank">AccessCovidTests.org</a>, Kansans will be able enter their zip code to order free, rapid, at-home COVID-19 test kits.Kansans who need more support in ordering may call 866-534-3463 (866-KDHEINF).This opportunity is currently limited to one order per household. If you need additional testing, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTYuNjM4MDI4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rbm93YmVmb3JleW91Z29rcy5jb20_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.shwdobRxBTxMAYf68jmHi46L_S5nux17FIHN4H_CaOA/s/1305913542/br/144148219433-l" target="_blank">KnowBeforeYouGoKS.com</a>&nbsp;to find a free testing site in your community.

Free COVID-19 tests now available for all Kansas communities

Homecoming at Fort Hays State University will commence its yearly activities the weekend of Oct. 6 to 8.

What better way to celebrate the season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and crisp leaves than with FHSU’s favorite fall activities? The fall semester has commenced, the Tigers have kicked off their football season, and FHSU Homecoming is right around the corner with a packed schedule of events. With some events requiring advanced registration, Tiger fans should start mapping out their weekend plans now. Registration for select Homecoming 2022 events closes on Thurs. Sept. 29.

The Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co., previously known as the Memorial Union Bookstore, will be offering discounts of 20% on all regular-priced items all day Friday and Saturday. Be sure to stop by the Memorial Union or check out their merchandise online at https://victoreapparelandgiftco.myresero.com/ and use the code “Homecoming2022” at checkout to receive your discount.

For a full schedule of events, registration information, and event updates, visit www.fhsuhomecoming.com or call 785-628-4430 for more information!

• Chamber Chat: FHSU Homecoming and Oktoberfest— FHSU Robbins Center, 9 a.m.

• Homecoming Golf Tournament*— Smoky Hill Country Club, Registration 8:30 a.m., Shotgun Start, 9:30 a.m. (Registration full)

• Lunch with Head Football Coach, Chris Brown*— Smoky Hill Country Club, 12 p.m.

• Royalty Meet and Greet— FHSU Quad, 1 to 3 p.m.

• Tiger Bonfire— FHSU Robbins Center, Food vendors, 7:00 p.m. Bonfire and Pep Rally, 7:30 p.m.

• Alumni Award Recipients Meet and Greet— FHSU Forsyth Library, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Half Century Club Social, Luncheon, and Induction*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, Social, 11:00 a.m. Luncheon followed by Induction, 12:00 p.m.

• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 1:30 p.m.

• Class of 1962 and 1972 Campus and Hays Bus Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 2:00 p.m.

• Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet*— FHSU Memorial Union, Social 6 p.m., Dinner Banquet, 7:00 p.m.

• Breakfast with the President*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, 8:30 a.m.

• Class of 1962 and 1972 Reunion Breakfast*— FHSU Memorial Union, Second Floor, 8:30 a.m.

• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 9:30 a.m.

• Class of 1962 and 1972 Parade Entries— FHSU Memorial Union, load west side, 10 a.m.

• Parade— The Bricks in Downtown Hays, 11 a.m.

• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Tiger Tailgate*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, East Lawn, 5 p.m.

• Football Game*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, FHSU vs. Washburn, Pre-Game 6:30 p.m., Kickoff 7 p.m.

* Denotes events that require advanced registration at www.FHSUHomecoming.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663342037553.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsHomecoming at Fort Hays State University will commence its yearly activities the weekend of Oct. 6 to 8.What better way to celebrate the season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and crisp leaves than with FHSU’s favorite fall activities? The fall semester has commenced, the Tigers have kicked off their football season, and FHSU Homecoming is right around the corner with a packed schedule of events. With some events requiring advanced registration, Tiger fans should start mapping out their weekend plans now. Registration for select Homecoming 2022 events closes on Thurs. Sept. 29.The Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co., previously known as the Memorial Union Bookstore, will be offering discounts of 20% on all regular-priced items all day Friday and Saturday. Be sure to stop by the Memorial Union or check out their merchandise online at https://victoreapparelandgiftco.myresero.com/ and use the code “Homecoming2022” at checkout to receive your discount.For a full schedule of events, registration information, and event updates, visit www.fhsuhomecoming.com or call 785-628-4430 for more information!Friday, Sept. 30• Chamber Chat: FHSU Homecoming and Oktoberfest— FHSU Robbins Center, 9 a.m.Thursday, Oct. 6• Homecoming Golf Tournament*— Smoky Hill Country Club, Registration 8:30 a.m., Shotgun Start, 9:30 a.m. (Registration full)• Lunch with Head Football Coach, Chris Brown*— Smoky Hill Country Club, 12 p.m.• Royalty Meet and Greet— FHSU Quad, 1 to 3 p.m.• Tiger Bonfire— FHSU Robbins Center, Food vendors, 7:00 p.m. Bonfire and Pep Rally, 7:30 p.m.Friday, Oct. 7• Alumni Award Recipients Meet and Greet— FHSU Forsyth Library, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.• Half Century Club Social, Luncheon, and Induction*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, Social, 11:00 a.m. Luncheon followed by Induction, 12:00 p.m.• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 1:30 p.m.• Class of 1962 and 1972 Campus and Hays Bus Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 2:00 p.m.• Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet*— FHSU Memorial Union, Social 6 p.m., Dinner Banquet, 7:00 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 8• Breakfast with the President*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, 8:30 a.m.• Class of 1962 and 1972 Reunion Breakfast*— FHSU Memorial Union, Second Floor, 8:30 a.m.• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 9:30 a.m.• Class of 1962 and 1972 Parade Entries— FHSU Memorial Union, load west side, 10 a.m.• Parade— The Bricks in Downtown Hays, 11 a.m.• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.• Tiger Tailgate*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, East Lawn, 5 p.m.• Football Game*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, FHSU vs. Washburn, Pre-Game 6:30 p.m., Kickoff 7 p.m.* Denotes events that require advanced registration at www.FHSUHomecoming.com

FHSU announces 2022 homecoming events, schedule

TOPEKA - One thing that unites us as a nation is land. Americans strongly support saving the open spaces they love. Since 2003, Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) has been doing just that for the people of Kansas. Now, RTK has renewed its land trust accreditation, proving once again that, as part of a network of more than 450 accredited land trusts across the nation, it is committed to professional excellence and to maintaining the public's trust in its conservation work.

"Renewing our accreditation shows RTK's ongoing commitment to permanent land conservation in Kansas,” said Lynn Gentine, RTK executive director. “We are a stronger organization than ever for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process. This strength means a portion of the native grasslands in Kansas will be protected forever, making Kansas an even greater place for us and future generations."

RTK provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded the renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that RTK can protect land forever. Accredited land trusts now steward almost 20 million acres.

To date, RTK has assisted 16 families in conserving nearly 18,000 acres in Kansas. The trust holds 23 conservation easements with these families. RTK does not own any land and advocates to keep land in private ownership for future generations of farmers and ranchers.

"It is exciting to recognize RTK's continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction," said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the commission. "Donors and partners can trust the more than 450 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance and lasting stewardship."

<a>RTK is one of 1,363 total land trusts across the U.S., according to the Land Trust Alliance's most recent National Land Trust Census. This number encompasses both accredited and non-accredited land trusts. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org.</a>

RTK is a private, non-profit organization founded by members of the Kansas Livestock Association in 2003. The organization was created to provide assistance to ranchers and landowners who desire to conserve their land with conservation easements. Guided by their mission to preserve Kansas’ ranching heritage and open spaces for future generations through the conservation of working landscapes, RTK values a commitment to conservation, respect for private landownership, integrity, organizational excellence and collaboration with those who share their values. RTK remains an affiliate of the Kansas Livestock Association. To learn more, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org/" target="_blank">www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org</a>.

About the Land Trust Accreditation Commission

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. The commission, established in 2006 as an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, is governed by a volunteer board of diverse land conservation and nonprofit management experts. For more, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/" target="_blank">www.landtrustaccreditation.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1575043657497.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RTKTOPEKA - One thing that unites us as a nation is land. Americans strongly support saving the open spaces they love. Since 2003, Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) has been doing just that for the people of Kansas. Now, RTK has renewed its land trust accreditation, proving once again that, as part of a network of more than 450 accredited land trusts across the nation, it is committed to professional excellence and to maintaining the public's trust in its conservation work."Renewing our accreditation shows RTK's ongoing commitment to permanent land conservation in Kansas,” said Lynn Gentine, RTK executive director. “We are a stronger organization than ever for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process. This strength means a portion of the native grasslands in Kansas will be protected forever, making Kansas an even greater place for us and future generations."RTK provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded the renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that RTK can protect land forever. Accredited land trusts now steward almost 20 million acres.To date, RTK has assisted 16 families in conserving nearly 18,000 acres in Kansas. The trust holds 23 conservation easements with these families. RTK does not own any land and advocates to keep land in private ownership for future generations of farmers and ranchers."It is exciting to recognize RTK's continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction," said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the commission. "Donors and partners can trust the more than 450 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance and lasting stewardship."<a>RTK is one of 1,363 total land trusts across the U.S., according to the Land Trust Alliance's most recent National Land Trust Census. This number encompasses both accredited and non-accredited land trusts. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org.</a>About Ranchland Trust of KansasRTK is a private, non-profit organization founded by members of the Kansas Livestock Association in 2003. The organization was created to provide assistance to ranchers and landowners who desire to conserve their land with conservation easements. Guided by their mission to preserve Kansas’ ranching heritage and open spaces for future generations through the conservation of working landscapes, RTK values a commitment to conservation, respect for private landownership, integrity, organizational excellence and collaboration with those who share their values. RTK remains an affiliate of the Kansas Livestock Association. To learn more, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org/" target="_blank">www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org</a>.About the Land Trust Accreditation CommissionThe Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. The commission, established in 2006 as an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, is governed by a volunteer board of diverse land conservation and nonprofit management experts. For more, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/" target="_blank">www.landtrustaccreditation.org</a>.

Ranchland Trust of Kansas earns national recognition

Fort Hays State University’s Science Café for September is set for Monday, Sept. 19.

The monthly presentation, entitled&nbsp;“DART – a targeted mission – how do we move an asteroid?,”&nbsp;is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI), will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.

Dr. Paul Adams, Dean, College of Education, &nbsp;Professor of Physics and Anschutz, Professor of Education, &nbsp;NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador will talk about the DART satellite. This satellite is scheduled to slam into the asteroid Dimorphos, which orbits a larger asteroid named Didymos at the speed of 15,000 mph. Picture a vending machine hitting the pyramid of Giza. The goal is to slightly change the orbital time of Dimorphos as the first test of planetary defense from asteroid collisions. While neither asteroid is any threat to Earth, it is a proof-of-concept mission.&nbsp;

Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJN6YW3ahiFh3u1xso6sQsiDE6GJ06bOQIjYgX8RETmmTZLcU_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDRm7aUqxHkAz1YOT7WSj9TsaKlpvjOXtRyF92s-2FCyZ9WRXfdkJL8yYmqrdbxs6cR-2B08JOh2ksDuRmADZlr2zmccsBzXXxVnbhUb6iepZ21iNmV0yOwtod602CR8G3WygJZ9J3-2F1y38-2FC4x-2FWrl655tJtqOWNC4dPPE-2BkhPBz-2FA1w">www.twitter.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJM9yMLtcQHFVzIgvo7vtXsa2lh-2FFmlw1B0utYEX-2F-2BAl65ttfmJSIa8vOh5ZwyxplYg-3D-3Dzbrb_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDY74-2B5CmdBmScfmmB3jo3jiEfEM8DE4Wo0eBW6yOt8SPeNxzlAZzrPm-2Fmtpy-2BO9Pluea9mhmXHFxqZ7-2Fni7ULVYqD8u5i5UB9jqZNJCmhpV5AZtzJlmrHELyl4ZK63cE-2BkmJSUNUxpYH3-2B0qDss7CCaUzYZkTKD95EgXAbuKgQam">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663098765656.jpeg" alt="Dr. Paul Adams" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Paul Adams</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s Science Café for September is set for Monday, Sept. 19.The monthly presentation, entitled&nbsp;“DART – a targeted mission – how do we move an asteroid?,”&nbsp;is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI), will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.Dr. Paul Adams, Dean, College of Education, &nbsp;Professor of Physics and Anschutz, Professor of Education, &nbsp;NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador will talk about the DART satellite. This satellite is scheduled to slam into the asteroid Dimorphos, which orbits a larger asteroid named Didymos at the speed of 15,000 mph. Picture a vending machine hitting the pyramid of Giza. The goal is to slightly change the orbital time of Dimorphos as the first test of planetary defense from asteroid collisions. While neither asteroid is any threat to Earth, it is a proof-of-concept mission.&nbsp;Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIbWkKLWq-2BAH9EOMnpKiWtF21cgruX7hnOpjSWWak0MVsNgd_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDUhbSUEC8xo2jBRPrx2ADXer-2B5Ap-2BCTWXL-2FCizhTQA9aBWrzyzlG54aezsdp-2FaAFCaMeOulZ6SHH1PG8zHUkO5P8CKTeE8hXDEu08iK10w7JPxKVbS9-2BPcDg8E-2BvHDGCnzD41KCLAjK5PUSaFXZgRg8jopJ6DQ49BxjeGCJzsPLR">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJN6YW3ahiFh3u1xso6sQsiDE6GJ06bOQIjYgX8RETmmTZLcU_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDRm7aUqxHkAz1YOT7WSj9TsaKlpvjOXtRyF92s-2FCyZ9WRXfdkJL8yYmqrdbxs6cR-2B08JOh2ksDuRmADZlr2zmccsBzXXxVnbhUb6iepZ21iNmV0yOwtod602CR8G3WygJZ9J3-2F1y38-2FC4x-2FWrl655tJtqOWNC4dPPE-2BkhPBz-2FA1w">www.twitter.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJM9yMLtcQHFVzIgvo7vtXsa2lh-2FFmlw1B0utYEX-2F-2BAl65ttfmJSIa8vOh5ZwyxplYg-3D-3Dzbrb_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDY74-2B5CmdBmScfmmB3jo3jiEfEM8DE4Wo0eBW6yOt8SPeNxzlAZzrPm-2Fmtpy-2BO9Pluea9mhmXHFxqZ7-2Fni7ULVYqD8u5i5UB9jqZNJCmhpV5AZtzJlmrHELyl4ZK63cE-2BkmJSUNUxpYH3-2B0qDss7CCaUzYZkTKD95EgXAbuKgQam">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

FHSU’s first fall Science Café set for Sept. 19

By CAITLIN LEIKER Tiger Media Network

FHSU’s Music Department will host a free faculty showcase Friday. After several years without a showcase, the occasion will put a spotlight on the music faculty’s expertise in action.

The recital will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;

In the past, the department hosted a faculty showcase annually but was discontinued due to waning availability. The COVID-19 pandemic lengthened the hiatus. Music Department Chair Benjamin Cline said he plans to continue the yearly showcase “as long as there’s interest.”

“It’s good to change things up,” Cline said, wanting to avoid concerts “where it’s the same thing over and over again, so you kind of stop paying attention.”

The faculty showcase will span a variety of genres, stretching from the Classical and Romantic periods to works composed within the last few years.

One of the newer works to be performed by Cline was composed by professor Timothy Rolls, incorporating cello and electronics. Cline had already played Rolls’s piece in Belgium, but once COVID shutdowns hit, playing it for a Hays audience was out of the question until this summer’s High Plains Music Camp.

“I’m playing it again, but it’s [Roll’s] piece,” Cline said. “The composer is on our program as if he were the performer.”

Now, with COVID restrictions reduced and classes back in session, Cline said it’s not just “a year of return,” but a year of “feeling more normalized”...something that can be celebrated with the return of an event like the faculty recital.

Vocal professor Ivalah Allen, one of the scheduled performers, expressed excitement while referring to the showcase as an “opportunity for collaboration” before schedules get tighter later in the semester.

“We want to show the students that, not only do the faculty teach, but we also ‘do’,” Allen said. “It shows artistry and musicianship, but it’s mostly an introduction to the music faculty– not only for our students and the campus, but for the community as well.”

By CAITLIN LEIKER Tiger Media NetworkFHSU’s Music Department will host a free faculty showcase Friday. After several years without a showcase, the occasion will put a spotlight on the music faculty’s expertise in action.The recital will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;In the past, the department hosted a faculty showcase annually but was discontinued due to waning availability. The COVID-19 pandemic lengthened the hiatus. Music Department Chair Benjamin Cline said he plans to continue the yearly showcase “as long as there’s interest.”“It’s good to change things up,” Cline said, wanting to avoid concerts “where it’s the same thing over and over again, so you kind of stop paying attention.”The faculty showcase will span a variety of genres, stretching from the Classical and Romantic periods to works composed within the last few years.One of the newer works to be performed by Cline was composed by professor Timothy Rolls, incorporating cello and electronics. Cline had already played Rolls’s piece in Belgium, but once COVID shutdowns hit, playing it for a Hays audience was out of the question until this summer’s High Plains Music Camp.“I’m playing it again, but it’s [Roll’s] piece,” Cline said. “The composer is on our program as if he were the performer.”Now, with COVID restrictions reduced and classes back in session, Cline said it’s not just “a year of return,” but a year of “feeling more normalized”...something that can be celebrated with the return of an event like the faculty recital.Vocal professor Ivalah Allen, one of the scheduled performers, expressed excitement while referring to the showcase as an “opportunity for collaboration” before schedules get tighter later in the semester.“We want to show the students that, not only do the faculty teach, but we also ‘do’,” Allen said. “It shows artistry and musicianship, but it’s mostly an introduction to the music faculty– not only for our students and the campus, but for the community as well.”

FHSU Music Department's faculty showcase will be Friday

MANCHESTER, N.H. —&nbsp;Christopher Rayburn of Hays has been named to<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h0/uJqV1_WyYa-q7Q2y9tVVFET49YQPeZ5WULI_g_xjovk" target="_blank">&nbsp;Southern New Hampshire University</a>'s Summer 2022 President's List. The summer terms run from May to August.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above are named to the President's List.&nbsp;

<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h1/8NM0Qw34rIESA8sY8geu_T_arDIlZgmrDZj3U_Q8l2A" target="_blank">Southern New Hampshire University</a>&nbsp;is a private, nonprofit institution with an 89-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652890565058.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseMANCHESTER, N.H. —&nbsp;Christopher Rayburn of Hays has been named to<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h0/uJqV1_WyYa-q7Q2y9tVVFET49YQPeZ5WULI_g_xjovk" target="_blank">&nbsp;Southern New Hampshire University</a>'s Summer 2022 President's List. The summer terms run from May to August.Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above are named to the President's List.&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h1/8NM0Qw34rIESA8sY8geu_T_arDIlZgmrDZj3U_Q8l2A" target="_blank">Southern New Hampshire University</a>&nbsp;is a private, nonprofit institution with an 89-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults.&nbsp;

Hays student named to Southern New Hampshire University President's list

HOXIE — A&nbsp;training&nbsp;workshop for information on Kansas Open Meeting Act and Kansas Open Record Act will be from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22,&nbsp;at the Bowen Scout House, 1117 Sheridan Ave., Hoxie.&nbsp;Cost for the "brown bag" event&nbsp;is $25, so&nbsp;be sure to bring your own lunch. Tea, water and snacks will be available during the event.&nbsp;This workshop is sponsored by&nbsp;The Sheridan Sentinel and&nbsp;Kansas Coalition for Open Government.

The speaker will be Max Kautsch, Kansas Press Association attorney. He will&nbsp;teach about KOMA/KORA and answer any questions attendees may have.

KOMA&nbsp;applies to state and local public agencies (those related to the government). It does not apply to private entities. The KOMA also applies to any subordinate group formed by such public agencies (e.g.&nbsp;committees, sub-committees,&nbsp;etc.). This means that KOMA applies to state boards, commissions, committees, city councils, county boards of commissioners, township boards, rural water district boards, public library boards, etc. and most groups formed by such entities&nbsp;in order to&nbsp;assist them with public business. The KOMA&nbsp;does not apply&nbsp;to private persons or meetings of private groups such as homeowner’s associations, church groups, private clubs, private businesses, political party caucuses, etc.&nbsp;(Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/koma-faq">https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/koma-faq</a>)

KORA&nbsp;applies only to public records, which are records made, maintained, created or possessed by a public agency (i.e., a branch of the state or local government).&nbsp;Deadline to register is&nbsp;Monday, Sept. 19.&nbsp;(Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/kora-faq">https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/kora-faq</a>)&nbsp;

The&nbsp;sign-up&nbsp;link for the KOMA/KORA Workshop is:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3TdJsV5">https://bit.ly/3TdJsV5</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;contact&nbsp;The Sheridan Sentinel&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:editor@sheridansentinel.com">editor@sheridansentinel.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-675-3321.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663086493444.jpeg" alt="Kautsch" />
 <figcaption>Kautsch</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseHOXIE — A&nbsp;training&nbsp;workshop for information on Kansas Open Meeting Act and Kansas Open Record Act will be from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22,&nbsp;at the Bowen Scout House, 1117 Sheridan Ave., Hoxie.&nbsp;Cost for the "brown bag" event&nbsp;is $25, so&nbsp;be sure to bring your own lunch. Tea, water and snacks will be available during the event.&nbsp;This workshop is sponsored by&nbsp;The Sheridan Sentinel and&nbsp;Kansas Coalition for Open Government.The speaker will be Max Kautsch, Kansas Press Association attorney. He will&nbsp;teach about KOMA/KORA and answer any questions attendees may have.KOMA&nbsp;applies to state and local public agencies (those related to the government). It does not apply to private entities. The KOMA also applies to any subordinate group formed by such public agencies (e.g.&nbsp;committees, sub-committees,&nbsp;etc.). This means that KOMA applies to state boards, commissions, committees, city councils, county boards of commissioners, township boards, rural water district boards, public library boards, etc. and most groups formed by such entities&nbsp;in order to&nbsp;assist them with public business. The KOMA&nbsp;does not apply&nbsp;to private persons or meetings of private groups such as homeowner’s associations, church groups, private clubs, private businesses, political party caucuses, etc.&nbsp;(Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/koma-faq">https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/koma-faq</a>)KORA&nbsp;applies only to public records, which are records made, maintained, created or possessed by a public agency (i.e., a branch of the state or local government).&nbsp;Deadline to register is&nbsp;Monday, Sept. 19.&nbsp;(Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/kora-faq">https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/kora-faq</a>)&nbsp;Schedule:10am-12pm - KOMA training12-12:30pm - Lunch break12:30-2:30pm - KORA trainingThe&nbsp;sign-up&nbsp;link for the KOMA/KORA Workshop is:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3TdJsV5">https://bit.ly/3TdJsV5</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;contact&nbsp;The Sheridan Sentinel&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:editor@sheridansentinel.com">editor@sheridansentinel.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-675-3321.

Kan. open meetings/records training session scheduled in Hoxie

GREAT BEND — Thanks to scholarships from the Barton Foundation, five Barton Community College business students are getting a huge financial boost of $10,000 towards paying for college so they can pursue career goals after school with as little debt as possible. The scholarship program also includes a mentorship program and is funded by a generous gift from the Schmidt Foundation of Hays.

The students awarded scholarships include Jenna Dean and Andrea Orona Favela of Great Bend, Mary Dimmitt of Ellinwood, Matthew Donecker of Claflin and Ashton Waggoner of La Crosse.

Dean said this scholarship not only helps her achieve her goals but helps her entire family.

“This is amazing because my mom is a single mom, and I really want her to save up and be able to send my sister to school,” she said. “Knowing that I have this and a few other scholarships really means the world to me, so I know that she can provide for my sister.”

Donecker said the scholarship has helped him transition his educational path after an injury made him rethink the tech career he was pursuing.

“For me personally, it's definitely a blessing,” he said. “Last year, I went to tech school and kind of figured out that it wasn't really the route that I wanted to go with having another knee surgery and the impact on the body of that career … switching to go the business route at Barton and just getting that opportunity means a lot to me and I’m thankful for it.”

To qualify, applicants must be a full-time student majoring in business or marketing and attend Barton for two years. Preference is given to students in Barton County, but applications are accepted from Barton’s entire service area, which includes Ellsworth, Pawnee, Rice, Rush, Russell and Stafford Counties. Other students are given consideration after that.

Barton Foundation Director Lindsey Bogner said the students are fortunate not only for the financial benefit but for the mentorship program that is built into the scholarship. “This program is so beneficial for these young entrepreneurs because it includes time with local businesses based on the student's interest and a local nonprofit as well to give the students real-world experience in different business models,” she said. “We are just so grateful to the Schmidt&nbsp;Foundation for this generous gift that will help educate future business leaders.”

The Schmidt Foundation has also committed to funding these five scholarships next year to another round of five students.

The Schmidt Foundation was created by Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays to contribute to the success and well-being of the communities served by Eagle Communications, which Bob owned and turned into an employee-owned company. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663002407888.jpeg" alt="Ashton Waggoner, La Crosse&nbsp; (Photo courtesy BCC)" />
 <figcaption>Ashton Waggoner, La Crosse&nbsp; (Photo courtesy BCC)</figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND — Thanks to scholarships from the Barton Foundation, five Barton Community College business students are getting a huge financial boost of $10,000 towards paying for college so they can pursue career goals after school with as little debt as possible. The scholarship program also includes a mentorship program and is funded by a generous gift from the Schmidt Foundation of Hays.The students awarded scholarships include Jenna Dean and Andrea Orona Favela of Great Bend, Mary Dimmitt of Ellinwood, Matthew Donecker of Claflin and Ashton Waggoner of La Crosse.Dean said this scholarship not only helps her achieve her goals but helps her entire family.“This is amazing because my mom is a single mom, and I really want her to save up and be able to send my sister to school,” she said. “Knowing that I have this and a few other scholarships really means the world to me, so I know that she can provide for my sister.”Donecker said the scholarship has helped him transition his educational path after an injury made him rethink the tech career he was pursuing.“For me personally, it's definitely a blessing,” he said. “Last year, I went to tech school and kind of figured out that it wasn't really the route that I wanted to go with having another knee surgery and the impact on the body of that career … switching to go the business route at Barton and just getting that opportunity means a lot to me and I’m thankful for it.”To qualify, applicants must be a full-time student majoring in business or marketing and attend Barton for two years. Preference is given to students in Barton County, but applications are accepted from Barton’s entire service area, which includes Ellsworth, Pawnee, Rice, Rush, Russell and Stafford Counties. Other students are given consideration after that.Barton Foundation Director Lindsey Bogner said the students are fortunate not only for the financial benefit but for the mentorship program that is built into the scholarship. “This program is so beneficial for these young entrepreneurs because it includes time with local businesses based on the student's interest and a local nonprofit as well to give the students real-world experience in different business models,” she said. “We are just so grateful to the Schmidt&nbsp;Foundation for this generous gift that will help educate future business leaders.”The Schmidt Foundation has also committed to funding these five scholarships next year to another round of five students.The Schmidt Foundation was created by Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays to contribute to the success and well-being of the communities served by Eagle Communications, which Bob owned and turned into an employee-owned company.

La Crosse student awarded $10K BCC scholarship thanks to Schmidt Foundation 

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services while navigating back to school costs, help is available to stay connected.

During Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) encourages Kansans in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP). Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access healthcare, attend classes, keep up with homework, find jobs and call for help in an emergency.

Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in both programs. Due to higher income maximums, ACP also has the potential to help many families with internet costs that may not qualify for other types of assistance. For example, the maximum income for a family of four on the ACP program is $55,500 per year. The maximum annual income for a family of four on the Lifeline program is $37,463.

Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. The Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP) provides a service discount of up to $30 per month for broadband service and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet purchased through a participating provider. Both programs offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.

Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline or at or below 200% for ACP) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:

Regardless of&nbsp;Lifeline&nbsp;eligibility, Kansans may still qualify for&nbsp;ACP&nbsp;if they meet any of the following criteria:

More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTIuNjM1NjQ4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.zAmb7_mzfI6NL9GTJa62Swsuqb5C9sRJGrzKBlsKcpY/s/1510803200/br/143846354501-l" target="_blank">KCC website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606345559018.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>KCCTOPEKA&nbsp;– The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services while navigating back to school costs, help is available to stay connected.During Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) encourages Kansans in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP). Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access healthcare, attend classes, keep up with homework, find jobs and call for help in an emergency.Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in both programs. Due to higher income maximums, ACP also has the potential to help many families with internet costs that may not qualify for other types of assistance. For example, the maximum income for a family of four on the ACP program is $55,500 per year. The maximum annual income for a family of four on the Lifeline program is $37,463.Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. The Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP) provides a service discount of up to $30 per month for broadband service and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet purchased through a participating provider. Both programs offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline or at or below 200% for ACP) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:<ul>
 <li>Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)</li><li>Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)</li><li>Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA)</li><li>Veterans Pension &amp; Survivors Pension Benefit</li><li>Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance</li><li>Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families</li><li>Head Start Tribal Programs (income based)</li><li>The Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands.</li>
 </ul>Regardless of&nbsp;Lifeline&nbsp;eligibility, Kansans may still qualify for&nbsp;ACP&nbsp;if they meet any of the following criteria:<ul>
 <li>Are approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including the&nbsp;USDA Community Eligibility Provision.</li><li>Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.</li><li>Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.</li><li>Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.</li>
 </ul>More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTIuNjM1NjQ4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.zAmb7_mzfI6NL9GTJa62Swsuqb5C9sRJGrzKBlsKcpY/s/1510803200/br/143846354501-l" target="_blank">KCC website</a>.

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