August 2022

Dear Readers, The first day of Autumn is four weeks away according to my calendar. But August’s dog days of heat-induced lethargy have already given way to the Fall bustle and rustle. Streets and highways remain quiet mid-day. Relieved parents either skip lunch or pick at leftovers while they eye the clock, measuring the hours remaining until their kids get out school against the tasks they wish to complete, or quiet time they hope to enjoy. Yes, the sun’s been out and it’s been hot. And though daylight hour still feel summer- long, we’re out of that 24/7 relentless HOT. Nights cool down and dawns are chilly. A sunrise fog rests atop the greens and golds of the Flint Hills while in DRY Western Kansas, milo heads shimmer, gilded auburn by the morning sun. And in towns East to West, dew rests in the blooming Trumpet Vine blooms, bursting in more autumn orange and red hues than Walmart’s and Dollar General’s seasonal displays.

A grant to rehouse and preserve Sternberg Museum’s Miocene fossil mammal collection will soon ensure that fragile ancient remains receive much-needed attention. Dr.

The Fort Hays State University Robbins Banking Institute and The Kansas Bankers Association recently announced the hiring of FHSU alum Tommy Powell as its director. With more than a decade of sales and support experience in the banking industry, Powell completed his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a major in finance in 2020; in addition, Powell has completed classes in the Robbins Banking Institute program.