Kaytee Wisley, a junior in Fort Hays State University’s Honors College, was recently selected as a Truman Scholarship finalist.

Wisley, majoring in political science, is originally from Wichita, where she went to high school at Wichita Southeast High School.

The Truman scholarship, recognized as the most prestigious nationally competitive scholarship in the United States for those seeking a career in public service, awards $30,000 to just 60 students every year.

“Only about 25 percent of the 900 applicants are selected as finalists, putting Kaytee in a very elite group,” said Dr. Lexey Bartlett, associate professor of English and Nationally Competitive Scholarships coach for FHSU.

“I was truly honored to represent FHSU in this highly competitive process, and I am really thankful for the support across campus that I received to become a finalist,” said Wisley.

“Dr. Bartlett mentored me throughout the entire process from writing my essays to organizing mock interviews, and I could not be more thankful for her help and the time she invested in me,” she said.

“The application process is rigorous and intensive. Truman finalists often go on to distinguished careers in public service due to the prestige of the scholarship’s name,” said Bartlett. “This is a huge honor for FHSU and demonstrates that Honors College students can be competitive at a national level with the best and brightest students across the country.”

“The opportunity encouraged me to think very critically about what my future career goals are and how pursuing graduate school would help me reach those goals. It also gave me the opportunity to meet an amazing group of fellow finalists who inspired me with the work they had done in their communities,” said Wisley.

“Though the interview process was extremely scary, I think it prepared me well for future interviews for graduate school, internships and job opportunities.”

Wisley plans to pursue a master’s degree in public policy. After obtaining her master’s, she would then like to work in a local government advocating for better distribution of community services like mental health care and other social support services.

By  DENA WEIGEL BELL
WaKeeney Travel Blog

WAKEENEY – There is much to love about the great state of Kansas—the art and architecture, local cuisine, fun events, and the awe-inspiring landscape that tells the story of the past, present, and future of our state. The Kansas Sampler Foundation has designed a program that encourages Kansans to get out and explore the hidden gems found in the Sunflower State. It’s called the Big Kansas Road Trip, and it’s bringing people from across Kansas right through Trego County to visit three of our northwest Kansas neighbors.

The Land and Sky Scenic Byway

The Big Kansas Road Trip (BKRT) is an annual event that puts a spotlight on a three neighboring counties. The 2019 event is focusing on the Land and Sky Byway, taking travelers through the communities and rural areas of Cheyenne, Sherman, and Wallace counties on May 2^nd to 5^th.

What You’ll See on the Big Kansas Road Trip

The four-day adventure explores the historical sites, shops, attractions, and scenic roads of Northwest Kansas at your own pace. The red carpet is awaiting you at the many lodging options and restaurants you’ll find along the way, and the BKRT Program Guide will make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Sherman County (Goodland, Kanorado, Edison) is famous for its celebration of our state flower with its giant Van Gogh painting, but did you know it’s also the home of America’s first patented helicopter? You’ll find it at the Goodland’s High Plains Museum.

You’ll also find the historic 1928 White Eagle gas station, John Deere Grasshopper sculpture, and the Kidder Battle Site where the 1867 massacre of the same name occurred within the county’s borders.

When you get hungry make a stop at Crazy R’s Bar & Grill for their delicious burgers and steaks or King’s Cafe,  which is a great place for home cooking and pastries.

Cheyenne County (St. Francis, Bird City, Wheeler) offers visitors a chance to experience the amazing beauty of the Western Kansas prairie. Travel to the Arikaree Breaks to see a pint-sized Kansas version of the Grand Canyon, or stand tall at “Three Corners,” where Colorado, Nebraska, and Kansas meet. At Cherry Creek Encampment and the Ancient Indian Traders Trail take a moment to reflect on our difficult history with the original people who claimed this prairie their own.

When your day of exploring comes to an end, stop by the Fresh Seven Coffee at Union Square for a refreshing treat or Big Ed’s Steakhouse for a thick, hand-cut steak dinner.

Wallace County (Sharon Springs, Weskan, Wallace) is home to Mt. Sunflower, the highest point in Kansas at 4,039-feet. The mechanically-minded people will enjoy visiting the Radiel Wrench Museum, where they’ll find a collection of 10,000 wrenches, and hobbyists of domestic crafts should visit the General Store for bulk food, fabric and sewing supplies, and gifts.

Take a peek into Kansas’s prehistoric story at the Fort Wallace Museum—home to a 40-foot long replica of a plesiosaur fossil discovered in 1867 by the fort’s surgeon. The museum also contains Old West memorabilia and art work that will take you back to the days when legendary Western men, like General Custer, Wild Bill Hickock, and Buffalo Bill Cody, called the fort “The Fightin’est Fort in the West.” And, don’t miss touring the Kansas Pacific Railway’s Superintendent’s Residence. Built in 1879, it is considered to be the finest example of its kind in the West.

Much, Much More!

There are many more fascinating things you’ll find along the 2019 BKRT route, like Erin’s Food Truck that will be featuring a special menu for the tour. Special events, such as a concert series by Michael Martin Murphey that will occur on May 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th. Check out the Big Kansas Road Trip website for more information.

NOTE: Sherman and Wallace counties observe Mountain Time. Once you’ve entered these counties you are in a time warp, reversing time one hour!

The “Stump”

You can find out more about the BKRT from program organizers Marci Penner and WenDee Rowe at one of the Kansas Sampler Festival’s “Stump “ events. During the 15-minute question/answer games they will provide more insight into the many things to see and do in the three featured counties. The Stump events are scheduled in seven different communities located in the featured counties and the winner will receive a prize from a Stump sponsor!

Don’t Forget to Stop by Trego County on Your Trip West!

The Smoky Valley Scenic Byway has its own adventure waiting for you! Take a break during your adventure at the many great restaurants, shops, and attractions located in Trego County.

ROOKS COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are requesting the public’s assistance in locating 40-year-old Joseph “Joey” Plante, according to a social media report from the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office.

Plante is on probation for Felony Conviction of Distribution of Marijuana since June of 2018.

On March 22, a Felony Warrant was issued for Plante for Failure to Comply with his probation. Plante has absconded his probation for the last two months. Numerous attempts to contact Plante have been made by law enforcement and Plante has failed to turn himself in.

Plante lives at an address in Stockton, Kansas and has family in Plainville, Kansas and south of Plainville. He is also known to hang out in the Hays and Great Bend areas.

Plante is currently driving a 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, in which the vehicle is registered to Plante. Pictured below is a similar vehicle of Plante’s. Plante is currently working for an Oilfield Service out of Plainville named Skytop and also another Oilfield Service named Discover Drilling.

If anyone see’s Plante, please contact law enforcement immediately. You are welcomed to remain anonymous for any tips we receive. The Rooks County Sheriff’s Office has had success with sharing information with the public in catching wanted fugitives. We appreciate the public’s assistance and we desire to keep the public informed.

The 45th annual Auction for Christian Education will begin at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

HANSEN MUSEUM

LOGAN – The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is pleased to present its first-ever Brush Pen Calligraphy class on May 20 at 6:00 p.m. in the Hansen Museum Community Room.

Led by instructor Chandra Feldman of “Sarcasm & Calligraphy” out of Glen Elder, KS, participants will discover the basics of modern calligraphy while using a brush pen. Feldman will demonstrate and teach the convenience of the brush pen to practice consistent calligraphy techniques in this illustrative class. Students will take home two brush pens and workbooks to allow them to continue creating art on their own.

Class size is limited; please register by May 13. Registration is $45 per student with discounts available for Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members.

This learning opportunity is brought to you through the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program. For more information, please call 785-689-4846.

The Dane G. Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday 9-12 & 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 & 1-5; Sundays & Holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Museum is handicapped accessible and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information or if you have questions, please contact us at 785-689-4846.

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN
FHSU University Relations and Marketing

Her message was simple, but inspiring nonetheless.

“This year is about meaningful impact,” Kerri Soukup told a group of 25 Fort Hays State University graphic design students setting up their portfolios in the Robbins Center.

Soukup was one of three advertising executives from Leo Burnett Worldwide in Chicago on campus for the day to review the students’ portfolios.

The grand prize for all those days – and nights – of hard work for the students was twofold: the possibility of winning scholarship money and a chance at earning a summer internship at the one the largest ad agencies in the world.

Soukup, who grew up in Ellsworth and graduated from FHSU in 1997, spoke from experience about the meaningful impact the university’s graphic arts program had on her journey.

As a student taking general education classes at Hutchinson Community College, Soukup took a lettering class as an elective one semester.

That decision ultimately changed her life.

During that class, the instructor took her students to an American Institute of Graphic Arts portfolio review in Wichita.

“I saw all these tables of Fort Hays State students’ work, and they really stood out,” Soukup said. “I knew right then that’s what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go to school.”

FHSU students have been impressing Leo Burnett executives for a quarter of a century.

This marks the 25th anniversary of Leo Burnett Portfolio Review and scholarship awards. During the first few years of the awards, students sent their portfolios to Chicago for review. Soukup, who was recruited from FHSU to work at Leo Burnett shortly after graduation, has been coming to the Fort Hays State campus with other Leo Burnett representatives for nearly 20 years.

“One of the most fulfilling and rewarding things is to give back to these students,” she said, “to give back to a program that gave so much to me. It’s awesome to come here and scout interns and to give out scholarships.”

In an effort “to really make a difference in the students’ lives,” Soukup was instrumental in helping start the “Pencil Project” last year where students were given the challenge to “Create It. Write It. Be it.”

“We wanted to see a collection of their work, their story,” she said.

Twelve students applied and sent their work to Chicago for that project. Soukup and co-workers Tuan Huynh and Tracie Roberson evaluate the projects for about a week, then make their final decision during the reviews Monday.

“We had an idea of about five or so from their submissions before we came,” Soukup said. “But we wanted to see the ‘Be it.’ and how their presence embodied their work.”

Rayvon Lewis, a junior from Blue Springs, Mo., went away the big winner – earning a $10,000 award for his Pencil Project. But Soukup told all the students she wanted them “all to find your unique story and find your super power.”

“No matter what you’re working on, always ask ‘What’s more?’ ” Soukup said.

Soukup told the story of how, following graduation from FHSU, she had taken a job as a waitress at a restaurant while awaiting acceptance to graduate school.

“I thought I didn’t want to do advertising, and I didn’t want to live in Chicago,” she said. “I wanted to be at a small design firm and change the world.”

“Have any of you ever passed up an opportunity because you were afraid of the outcome?” Soukup asked. “I almost did that. I want everyone to be able to see that your path can be whatever you make it.”

After landing the job as an associate art director back in 1998, it didn’t take Soukup long to advance quickly in the company, and she now bears the titles of executive creative director and executive vice president.

There are about 6,000 applicants for internships each year at Leo Burnett for only 40 spots. Of those 6,000, about 1,000 applicants are in the creative department, and only 15 are chosen. Because of the relationship between Leo Burnett Worldwide and FHSU, they reserve two of those 15 spots for FHSU students.

“This is such a wonderful opportunity for our students,” said Karrie Simpson Voth, chair of the Department of Art and Design and professor of graphic design. “It’s also great for recruitment.”

Simpson Voth was one of the first recipients of a Leo Burnett scholarship back in 1994. The following year, she received an interview and offer to work for the company, but she had already committed to going to graduate school. When the opportunity came around again for another offer, she had just accepted a position at FHSU, teaching graphic design.

“The time and energy Kerri, Tuan, and Tracie put into these students during their one-on-one reviews is invaluable,” Simpson Voth said. “The students never get more thoughtful feedback anywhere else they present their work, and that is because of the relationship we have built over the years and the students who go on to work for them. They want to pass on that impact to the upcoming students.”

The morning presentation by the Leo Burnett trio was followed by six-plus hours of personal reviews with all the students, making for a long day.

But Simpson Voth said that it’s important for the students to hear validation of their work, concepts and skills as well as constructive criticism on how to improve upon what they have.

“They hear it from Chaiwat (Thumsujarit) and me all the time, but the input from Kerri, Tuan and Tracie adds the voice of industry, which is powerful,” she said.

It was an even more challenging day for Hill City sophomore Annalise Albrecht. She tripped over her dog’s chain on the stairs and sprained her ankle on her way to the evening scholarship presentation and had to call a friend to help her get to the Robbins Center in time.

It was worth the extra effort for Albrecht, one of the nine students awarded a $250 Leo B. scholarship. Four larger scholarships were awarded to two seniors and two juniors for first- and second-place overall portfolios.

Albrecht, a graphic design and photography major, said she first got into art because of her mom and is glad she chose Fort Hays State to continue her education after high school.

“My mom is an artist and always inspired me and encouraged me,” Albrecht said, “and this is a great program.”

CITY OF HAYS

Please be advised that beginning Saturday, April 27, 2019, traffic control on 43rd Street west of Vine Street will change to allow further reconstruction of 43rd Street.

The intersection of 43rd and Roth Avenue (east entrance to Walmart) will be closed.

The west entrance will be open to northbound (entering traffic) only.

This traffic control change will now allow traffic direct access to Wolf Furniture and Old Chicago from 43rd Street.

Traffic leaving the Walmart parking lot must still go north via 45th Street.

This construction is expected to be complete by the end of May, pending weather conditions. Signs will be in place to direct the traveling public. Motorists should use caution in these areas.

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please call the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 or the contractor, Vogts-Parga Construction, at 316-217-1961.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

There are areas in Hays where rainwater tends to collect in the streets during a downpour and cause flooding.

An unusually wet year in 2018 – the third wettest year on record for Hays – saw several street flooding events.

When that happens, Public Works Dept. employees go out and place bright orange traffic cones in places where water crosses the road.

By the time all the cones are set out, the water is usually already starting to recede, according to Jacob Wood, assistant city manager.

“Our drainage system actually works pretty well,” says Wood.

“So instead of sending our guys out to put cones in every location, we’ve put signs up in places where water typically crosses the road.”

Twelve yellow diamond caution signs read “WHEN FLOODED TURN AROUND DON’T DROWN.”  Another 30 yellow rectangular signs read “IMPASSABLE DURING HIGH WATER.”

Public Works will no longer put out the traffic cones during minor street flooding but “we do want to notify the public there could be water in the area,” he said.

In cases of major street flooding, the cones will still be moved into place as a warning to drivers.

“For the most part we’re trying to get away from sending everybody out to put cones up in areas where the flooding is not really terrible and most of the time vehicles can cross. It’s not advisable to drive through that,” Wood stressed, “but it’s not necessarily a life-threatening situation.”

He used as an example the intersection of 13th and Allen Streets.

“There’s not really a whole lot we can do there to get that water going faster just because of the elevations after we rebuilt 13th.

“So any time we have a heavy rain, water piles up there.  Now we’re not going to put cones there because we have traffic signs that say caution, when it’s raining heavy, water collects here.”

Typically, the flood-prone area doesn’t get water deep enough to cause problems, but Wood says if someone is driving a low-riding car, they may stall out.

“A lot of times when we put the cones up, people drive around them anyway,” he acknowledged with a grin.

There are 42 signs now installed in areas of Hays where traffic cones have historically been placed during a hard rain. The diamond shaped signs were provided to the city through the Federal Emergency Management Association and the Division of Water Resources.

A summer thunderstorm last July 6 resulted in a Flash Flood Warning for central Ellis County with more than four inches of rain falling in Hays in a short time. Notable flooding occurred in areas that rarely flood, including 17th Street.

“We put signs up there, but that water was deep enough that if it happens again, we’re going to go ahead and barricade those streets and other places like that if gets to the point of a really significant rainfall.”

That part of Hays had not flooded in many years.

“It just depends on the kind of rain that you get and how saturated the earth is at the time,” Wood added.

Mother Nature is not the only factor in a flooding event.

“When people build things or tear things down, it dramatically changes the way the water flows.

“We actually saw that around city hall (1507 Main). We tore a couple of houses down behind it and put in a parking lot and the water flowed totally different around city hall at the last flood event than it had in previous years.”

Some city streets act as part of the storm water system, which is designed to move water off the streets.

“In places where we don’t have underwater conveyance or ditches or that sort of thing, the water does flow in the street. Fortunately, it typically moves out pretty quickly.”

By eliminating the process of setting out and picking up the cones, city employees will now be able to take care of other flooding issues more quickly.

“When it’s raining heavily or flooding, our public works crews have more things to do than just set cones out. They’re trying to take care of

the whole city, and making sure everything is all right in Lincoln Draw. If it would get significant enough that we need to sandbag areas, they’re out doing that. They also monitor areas where it does get deep enough that it’s a life safety concern.”

Wood noted the Hays Police Department also monitors flood zones during heavy rains.

“If basements are filling up on 17th Street, that’s life-safety related. It’s really about saving lives and managing our resources the most effective way.”

Wood says the city typically hasn’t issued citations or tickets for driving around the traffic cones and onto a flooded street.

“It’s really more of a ‘go here at your own risk’ type of thing. If you do go through the water or around the cones and your car gets stalled out, that’s kind of on you.”