By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY <a href="https://salinapost.com">Salina Post</a>

Coming
 off a busy summer concert schedule, the local band was named 
Entertainer of the Year (Group) in the Southern Rock/Country Rock 
category of the Josie Music Awards. The awards were presented during a 
two-day event Friday and Saturday in the Country Tonite Theatre in 
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

"This is totally cool and a great honor," said
 Sunset Sinners' drummer Blake Blackim. "Anytime you can be recognized, 
its a big deal. Is this the CMAs? No. But it is just right under the 
CMAs. This recognition shows that we're on the right track."

According to the organization's <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "the Josie Music Awards was created solely to celebrate those in the 
independent music industry that work so hard every day and deserve to 
have a night of their own."

During an interview in May when the 
award show nominations were revealed, Blackim told Salina Post that the 
nomination came about after he was interviewed a few weeks prior on The 
Josie Show by Josie Passantino, who also is the namesake of the awards 
show. The internet radio show can be heard on Thursday nights.

Blackim said Passantino encouraged the Sunset Sinners to submit its Always Time for One More Beer
 for award consideration. As it turned out, the song led to the Sunset 
Sinners being nominated for Group of the Year in the Southern 
Rock/Country Rock category.

Because of the rigid review process 
for the Josie Music Awards, just being nominated for an award is an 
honor. According to the Josie Music Awards <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "Nominee suggestions go through a lengthy review process by a team of 
industry leaders and the official nomination list is created from their 
final decisions. Winners are also selected by this industry leader team 
(this review team has no connection to independent artists)."

Recognition
 for the Sunset Sinners doesn't stop with the Josie Music Awards. A few 
of weeks ago, the band's debut album, a compilation of their singles, 
was released, and it is already garnering attention. Fireworks, a music 
magazine in the United Kingdom, has scheduled a glowing review of the 
Sunset Sinners' album in its October issue. Additionally, another U.K. 
music magazine, Powerplay, has scheduled a feature about the Sunset 
Sinners for its November issue.

Blackim said the album is available on all the major music streaming services.

Additionally, two Sunset Sinners' singles - Old Glory and Friday Night - have been seen on the Nashville Music Row Charts, Blackim said.

What's
 next for the Sunset Sinners? The band's patriotic-themed show, Red, 
White, &amp; Brews is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Stiefel 
Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Kansas City based blues rock powerhouse
 MAHAN, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Howard Mahan, is scheduled to
 open the show, according to information from the Stiefel Theatre.

Tickets
 are $23 for general admission and can be purchased from noon-5 p.m. 
Monday through Friday at the Stiefel Theatre walk-up window box office 
next to the main entrance. Additionally, you can call the Stiefel at 
785-827-1998 to buy direct or buy online at stiefeltheatre.org.

Sunset
 Sinners will bring their Red White &amp; Brews Tour to the Stiefel 
Theatre as the ultimate party concert to honor military, veterans, and 
first responders.

"We're all about honoring active military, 
veterans, and first responders," Blackim told Salina Post when the 
concert was announced. "It's because of them that we're able to go out 
and play and perform! We even wrote a song called Old Glory that's 
recently been on the Nashville radio charts. It's dedicated to everyone 
that had the courage to sign up and serve."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608652164504.jpeg" alt="The Sunset Sinners, from left, Brad Johnson, Tony Bowell, Blake Blackim, and Chris Brungardt of Hays. All photos courtesy Blake Blackim" />
 <figcaption>The Sunset Sinners, from left, Brad Johnson, Tony Bowell, Blake Blackim, and Chris Brungardt of Hays. All photos courtesy Blake Blackim</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY <a href="https://salinapost.com">Salina Post</a>The Sunset Sinners are winners!Coming
 off a busy summer concert schedule, the local band was named 
Entertainer of the Year (Group) in the Southern Rock/Country Rock 
category of the Josie Music Awards. The awards were presented during a 
two-day event Friday and Saturday in the Country Tonite Theatre in 
Pigeon Forge, Tenn."This is totally cool and a great honor," said
 Sunset Sinners' drummer Blake Blackim. "Anytime you can be recognized, 
its a big deal. Is this the CMAs? No. But it is just right under the 
CMAs. This recognition shows that we're on the right track."According to the organization's <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "the Josie Music Awards was created solely to celebrate those in the 
independent music industry that work so hard every day and deserve to 
have a night of their own."During an interview in May when the 
award show nominations were revealed, Blackim told Salina Post that the 
nomination came about after he was interviewed a few weeks prior on The 
Josie Show by Josie Passantino, who also is the namesake of the awards 
show. The internet radio show can be heard on Thursday nights.Blackim said Passantino encouraged the Sunset Sinners to submit its Always Time for One More Beer
 for award consideration. As it turned out, the song led to the Sunset 
Sinners being nominated for Group of the Year in the Southern 
Rock/Country Rock category.Because of the rigid review process 
for the Josie Music Awards, just being nominated for an award is an 
honor. According to the Josie Music Awards <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>,
 "Nominee suggestions go through a lengthy review process by a team of 
industry leaders and the official nomination list is created from their 
final decisions. Winners are also selected by this industry leader team 
(this review team has no connection to independent artists)."Recognition
 for the Sunset Sinners doesn't stop with the Josie Music Awards. A few 
of weeks ago, the band's debut album, a compilation of their singles, 
was released, and it is already garnering attention. Fireworks, a music 
magazine in the United Kingdom, has scheduled a glowing review of the 
Sunset Sinners' album in its October issue. Additionally, another U.K. 
music magazine, Powerplay, has scheduled a feature about the Sunset 
Sinners for its November issue.Blackim said the album is available on all the major music streaming services.Additionally, two Sunset Sinners' singles - Old Glory and Friday Night - have been seen on the Nashville Music Row Charts, Blackim said.What's
 next for the Sunset Sinners? The band's patriotic-themed show, Red, 
White, &amp; Brews is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Stiefel 
Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Kansas City based blues rock powerhouse
 MAHAN, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Howard Mahan, is scheduled to
 open the show, according to information from the Stiefel Theatre.Tickets
 are $23 for general admission and can be purchased from noon-5 p.m. 
Monday through Friday at the Stiefel Theatre walk-up window box office 
next to the main entrance. Additionally, you can call the Stiefel at 
785-827-1998 to buy direct or buy online at stiefeltheatre.org.Sunset
 Sinners will bring their Red White &amp; Brews Tour to the Stiefel 
Theatre as the ultimate party concert to honor military, veterans, and 
first responders."We're all about honoring active military, 
veterans, and first responders," Blackim told Salina Post when the 
concert was announced. "It's because of them that we're able to go out 
and play and perform! We even wrote a song called Old Glory that's 
recently been on the Nashville radio charts. It's dedicated to everyone 
that had the courage to sign up and serve."

Sunset Sinners receive Entertainer of the Year group award

🏈 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

The newest business in downtown Hays has now opened, bringing day spa services to downtown Hays from a historic location.

Owners Caroline Beilman and&nbsp;Vanessa Schumacher, see The Brickhouse Day Spa, 706 Main, as a welcome addition to downtown, bringing a variety of beauty and health services to downtown.

"I have worked on both the medical side and the day spa side," Beilman said. "I really wanted an environment where I could still pamper people, but give them the results I got working on the medical side."

The location currently offers facials, massage and skin care treatments provided by Beilman and a small staff that includes two licensed cosmologists and a massage therapist, along with nails, pedicures and lashes.

"I think that is a big part of it," Beilman said. "Having a really great staff. And we have a small staff, which is nice, too, because it makes the environment very relaxing.

"It's nice and relaxing in here, it's never really busy or crazy," she added. "And I think that is what people want in a spa environment."

They also provide hydrotherapy in the location, which she said compliments their other services.

"It really relaxes you," Beilman said. "It's not like being in a hot tub — it's more of a thermal message."

"It's about bringing a quality spa to the Hays area," Schumacher said.&nbsp;

"A lot of places you go and get a facial or massage or whatever it might be, you have to add on the cupping, or the hot stones, or whatever it may be, you have to add all these things on," Beilman said. "Versus here ... anything they need that is going to benefit them so they walk out of here feeling better will be included in the treatment."

She said that customized treatment allows the clients to receive services that work for them.

"What works for Sally may not work for Sarah, because everyone's skin is different," Beilman said. "So that is why my major passion is skincare and skincare treatments. That is the driving force behind it."

She said with her own location she is not locked into a particular product, but rather can do a skin analysis and use their services to create positive outcomes.

"It's fun to go pamper yourself, but it's also nice to get results," Beilman said.&nbsp;

While the business was a longtime dream for the owners, it took the pandemic to make the spa reality.

"We kind of started joking about having this dream of opening something like this together," Schumacher said, while her and Beilman were stuck in a 14-day quarantine.

During that time, she asked Beilman about a downtown Hays building that she might be interested in if it were to happen.

"So she went back to work, and I started making phone calls," Schumacher said.

Ultimately, she would connect with the owner and he agreed to sell the building, one of the few empty locations available in downtown.

"It's kind of funny to think about now, Schumacher said. "I can only imagine getting that phone call from me."

With a deed in hand and the realization that their dream could become a reality, they began working to revitalize the historic building, built in 1926.

"It was originally the first cash-and-carry grocery store when Hill built it," Schumacher said.

She said their research indicated it remained a grocery for around 20 years, before becoming home to several cafes, and ultimately a screen printing shop, which had closed in recent years.

"It took a lot of digging to find the historical information on it," Schumacher said.

During the remodel, the owners — along with their significant others — worked to create a modern space that would suit the needs of the business.

"They are truly the masterminds behind this," Schumacher said, "as well as our designer, Emily Knowles of Emily Knowles Design. She came up with the concept and made the space work for us."

During the early stages of the remodel, the interior brick stood out, so they pushed Knowles to incorporate it into the design.

It would also change the business identity.

"We had Emily redesign everything so we could keep the brick exposed, Schumacher said. "And we renamed ourselves because this wasn't the original name."

"We got everything we wanted and it all fits perfectly,"&nbsp;Beilman said.

Being a part of the downtown community is also a part of the business identity, and Schumacher said the response so far has been amazing.

"Being on the Bricks, we are a part of this really cool community of business owners and everybody has been so kind and so nice," she said. "It was an outpouring of kindness and positivity."

The Brickhouse Day Spa is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more about the spa, visit their website <a href="http://www.brickhousedayspa.com">brickhousedayspa.com</a>

They also maintain a presence on social media including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brickhousedayspa">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632193506766.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe newest business in downtown Hays has now opened, bringing day spa services to downtown Hays from a historic location.Owners Caroline Beilman and&nbsp;Vanessa Schumacher, see The Brickhouse Day Spa, 706 Main, as a welcome addition to downtown, bringing a variety of beauty and health services to downtown."I have worked on both the medical side and the day spa side," Beilman said. "I really wanted an environment where I could still pamper people, but give them the results I got working on the medical side."The location currently offers facials, massage and skin care treatments provided by Beilman and a small staff that includes two licensed cosmologists and a massage therapist, along with nails, pedicures and lashes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174961340.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"I think that is a big part of it," Beilman said. "Having a really great staff. And we have a small staff, which is nice, too, because it makes the environment very relaxing."It's nice and relaxing in here, it's never really busy or crazy," she added. "And I think that is what people want in a spa environment."They also provide hydrotherapy in the location, which she said compliments their other services."It really relaxes you," Beilman said. "It's not like being in a hot tub — it's more of a thermal message."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174983458.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>They also have steam showers on site."It's about bringing a quality spa to the Hays area," Schumacher said.&nbsp;"A lot of places you go and get a facial or massage or whatever it might be, you have to add on the cupping, or the hot stones, or whatever it may be, you have to add all these things on," Beilman said. "Versus here ... anything they need that is going to benefit them so they walk out of here feeling better will be included in the treatment."She said that customized treatment allows the clients to receive services that work for them."What works for Sally may not work for Sarah, because everyone's skin is different," Beilman said. "So that is why my major passion is skincare and skincare treatments. That is the driving force behind it."She said with her own location she is not locked into a particular product, but rather can do a skin analysis and use their services to create positive outcomes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632175001720.jpeg" alt="\" />
 <figcaption>\</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's fun to go pamper yourself, but it's also nice to get results," Beilman said.&nbsp;While the business was a longtime dream for the owners, it took the pandemic to make the spa reality."We kind of started joking about having this dream of opening something like this together," Schumacher said, while her and Beilman were stuck in a 14-day quarantine.During that time, she asked Beilman about a downtown Hays building that she might be interested in if it were to happen.She identified the Hill's building."So she went back to work, and I started making phone calls," Schumacher said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632175021974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ultimately, she would connect with the owner and he agreed to sell the building, one of the few empty locations available in downtown."It's kind of funny to think about now, Schumacher said. "I can only imagine getting that phone call from me."With a deed in hand and the realization that their dream could become a reality, they began working to revitalize the historic building, built in 1926."It was originally the first cash-and-carry grocery store when Hill built it," Schumacher said.She said their research indicated it remained a grocery for around 20 years, before becoming home to several cafes, and ultimately a screen printing shop, which had closed in recent years."It took a lot of digging to find the historical information on it," Schumacher said.During the remodel, the owners — along with their significant others — worked to create a modern space that would suit the needs of the business."They are truly the masterminds behind this," Schumacher said, "as well as our designer, Emily Knowles of Emily Knowles Design. She came up with the concept and made the space work for us."During the early stages of the remodel, the interior brick stood out, so they pushed Knowles to incorporate it into the design.It would also change the business identity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174903076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We had Emily redesign everything so we could keep the brick exposed, Schumacher said. "And we renamed ourselves because this wasn't the original name.""We got everything we wanted and it all fits perfectly,"&nbsp;Beilman said.Being a part of the downtown community is also a part of the business identity, and Schumacher said the response so far has been amazing."Being on the Bricks, we are a part of this really cool community of business owners and everybody has been so kind and so nice," she said. "It was an outpouring of kindness and positivity."The Brickhouse Day Spa is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.For more about the spa, visit their website <a href="http://www.brickhousedayspa.com">brickhousedayspa.com</a>They also maintain a presence on social media including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brickhousedayspa">Facebook</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632193480676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

New Hays Day Spa brings aesthetician services and more to downtown

U.S. crude prices reached six-week highs last week, topping $72 a barrel for only the third time in two months. Prices have now retreated somewhat. By lunchtime Monday, the near-month contract for West Texas Intermediate Crude on the Nymex was down 88 cents to $71.09 per barrel. Crude prices in the Sunflower State are also higher. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $62.25 per barrel, up two dollars from a week ago, up nearly five dollars from the first of the month, and up nearly $25 a barrel over prices at the first of the year. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 512 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase of ten oil rigs. The count in Texas was up four, Oklahoma was up three and New Mexico was up two rigs from last week.&nbsp; The Rig Count in Kansas was up three in the eastern half of the state at 12 active rigs. The count was unchanged in Western Kansas at 25. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway on two leases in Ellis County. Kansas regulators approved 39 new drilling permits last week. There were 24 in eastern Kansas and 15 west of Wichita, including three in Ellis County and one each in Russell and Stafford counties. That's 732 new drilling locations across Kansas so far this year. Operators completed four new wells in Ellis County and two in Barton County, out of 22 new well-completions in Western Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported nine new drilling locations in eastern Kansas. The Energy Information Administration said U.S. crude inventories dropped by nearly six-and-a-half-million barrels last week. At just over 417 million barrels, stockpiles are about seven percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude imports for the week through September 10th were down 48,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is more than 13% higher than the same period last year. The U.S. is currently importing an average of more than 5.8 million barrels of crude oil per day. Domestic crude-oil production increased by more than 100,000 barrels per day last week, to just over 10.1 million. That's also a slight improvement over the same week a year ago according to weekly government reports. The U.S. Energy Information Administration last week reported 5,713 drilled but uncompleted, or (DUC) wells across the United States last month. That's the lowest monthly tally since November 2017. EIA says the decline reflects more well completions and less new-well drilling activity. DUCs declined by 248 wells across the U.S. Most of the declines are in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico, but the counts dropped in each of the major shale regions tracked by the government. The biggest North American railroad merger in two decades takes a new turn. Kansas City Southern (KCS) now says it will reunite with Canadian Pacific Railway, and will spurn a larger merger offer from a larger rival, Canadian National. KCS said the deal with Canadian Pacific is worth roughly $27 billion. The move comes less than two weeks after U.S. regulators rejected a voting trust for the larger deal. The merger will create the only end-to-end, crude-by-rail network from Canada to Mexico. Construction is now scheduled to begin next year on the first new refinery to be built in the&nbsp;U.S. in nearly 50 years. The controversial Davis Refinery in Belfield, North Dakota faced several delays from regulators because it's planned just three miles from the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The CEO of the Meridian Energy Group says his company has entered into a binding construction contract with an engineering firm in Houston. July crude production in North Dakota was down 56,000-barrel-per-day, or nearly 5 percent, at just over 1 million barrels per day. The Department of Mineral Resources says the state's gas-capture statistic is also down for the month, as operators had to burn or vent 10% of the natural gas produced at their oil wells. That's up 2 percent from June.&nbsp;

By JOHN P. TRETBARU.S. crude prices reached six-week highs last week, topping $72 a barrel for only the third time in two months. Prices have now retreated somewhat. By lunchtime Monday, the near-month contract for West Texas Intermediate Crude on the Nymex was down 88 cents to $71.09 per barrel. Crude prices in the Sunflower State are also higher. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $62.25 per barrel, up two dollars from a week ago, up nearly five dollars from the first of the month, and up nearly $25 a barrel over prices at the first of the year. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 512 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase of ten oil rigs. The count in Texas was up four, Oklahoma was up three and New Mexico was up two rigs from last week.&nbsp; The Rig Count in Kansas was up three in the eastern half of the state at 12 active rigs. The count was unchanged in Western Kansas at 25. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway on two leases in Ellis County. Kansas regulators approved 39 new drilling permits last week. There were 24 in eastern Kansas and 15 west of Wichita, including three in Ellis County and one each in Russell and Stafford counties. That's 732 new drilling locations across Kansas so far this year. Operators completed four new wells in Ellis County and two in Barton County, out of 22 new well-completions in Western Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported nine new drilling locations in eastern Kansas. The Energy Information Administration said U.S. crude inventories dropped by nearly six-and-a-half-million barrels last week. At just over 417 million barrels, stockpiles are about seven percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude imports for the week through September 10th were down 48,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is more than 13% higher than the same period last year. The U.S. is currently importing an average of more than 5.8 million barrels of crude oil per day. Domestic crude-oil production increased by more than 100,000 barrels per day last week, to just over 10.1 million. That's also a slight improvement over the same week a year ago according to weekly government reports. The U.S. Energy Information Administration last week reported 5,713 drilled but uncompleted, or (DUC) wells across the United States last month. That's the lowest monthly tally since November 2017. EIA says the decline reflects more well completions and less new-well drilling activity. DUCs declined by 248 wells across the U.S. Most of the declines are in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico, but the counts dropped in each of the major shale regions tracked by the government. The biggest North American railroad merger in two decades takes a new turn. Kansas City Southern (KCS) now says it will reunite with Canadian Pacific Railway, and will spurn a larger merger offer from a larger rival, Canadian National. KCS said the deal with Canadian Pacific is worth roughly $27 billion. The move comes less than two weeks after U.S. regulators rejected a voting trust for the larger deal. The merger will create the only end-to-end, crude-by-rail network from Canada to Mexico. Construction is now scheduled to begin next year on the first new refinery to be built in the&nbsp;U.S. in nearly 50 years. The controversial Davis Refinery in Belfield, North Dakota faced several delays from regulators because it's planned just three miles from the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The CEO of the Meridian Energy Group says his company has entered into a binding construction contract with an engineering firm in Houston. July crude production in North Dakota was down 56,000-barrel-per-day, or nearly 5 percent, at just over 1 million barrels per day. The Department of Mineral Resources says the state's gas-capture statistic is also down for the month, as operators had to burn or vent 10% of the natural gas produced at their oil wells. That's up 2 percent from June.&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: High prices, huge railroad merger, new refinery

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation is partnering with the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education to host the Fly Kansas Air Tour from Thursday to Saturday.

The annual flying celebration promotes aviation and economic growth. Over 45 pilots have already registered to fly the Air Tour this year, visiting nine communities across Kansas during the three-day tour.

“Every Air Tour brings heightened enthusiasm as we celebrate the heartbeat of innovation that is so obvious across the aviation industry of Kansas,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation.

The tour focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Highlights for this year include opportunities for students to learn from pilots and see their aircraft up close, a tour through an aviation manufacturer, community events, samples of local food and an opportunity to view new hangars and airport development.

“The Air Tour is our chance to introduce a future generation of leaders to aviation and celebrate the amazing contributions Kansas has made and continues to make on the aviation industry,” said Lindsey Dreiling, President of Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education.

This year’s events take place at the local airports in Wellington, Fort Scott, Allen County and Lawrence on Thursday, Sept. 23; Clay Center, Phillipsburg and Salina on Sept. 24; and Concordia, concluding with a private event at Wichita on Sept. 25.

For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-fly-kansas-air-tour-tickets-160630027737?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Fly Kansas Air Tour webpage.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632149147495.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation is partnering with the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education to host the Fly Kansas Air Tour from Thursday to Saturday.The annual flying celebration promotes aviation and economic growth. Over 45 pilots have already registered to fly the Air Tour this year, visiting nine communities across Kansas during the three-day tour.“Every Air Tour brings heightened enthusiasm as we celebrate the heartbeat of innovation that is so obvious across the aviation industry of Kansas,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation.The tour focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Highlights for this year include opportunities for students to learn from pilots and see their aircraft up close, a tour through an aviation manufacturer, community events, samples of local food and an opportunity to view new hangars and airport development.“The Air Tour is our chance to introduce a future generation of leaders to aviation and celebrate the amazing contributions Kansas has made and continues to make on the aviation industry,” said Lindsey Dreiling, President of Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education.This year’s events take place at the local airports in Wellington, Fort Scott, Allen County and Lawrence on Thursday, Sept. 23; Clay Center, Phillipsburg and Salina on Sept. 24; and Concordia, concluding with a private event at Wichita on Sept. 25.For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-fly-kansas-air-tour-tickets-160630027737?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Fly Kansas Air Tour webpage.</a>

Fly Kansas Air Tour schedule includes NW Kan. stop

GOODLAND — The Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Executive Committee has a new president for the 2021-22 academic year. Ben Schears, President of Northwest Tech, began his term during the conference’s annual summer meeting in Garden City in July. 

"I've had the joy of working around the Jayhawk Conference for the entire duration of my career in some form or fashion and have no hesitation in saying we are in the top JUCO conference in the country," said Schears. "The success of the conference is largely due to the efforts of our past and present conference commissioners and colleges working together to create an environment where students can be successful in the classroom and competition."

As it’s more commonly known, the Jayhawk Conference itself has a long-standing and successful legacy of competition dating back to its founding in 1923. As the conference approaches its centennial anniversary, one of the areas where there has been incredible continuity and stability is in the role of the Conference Commissioner. To date, there have been only eight individuals who have served in this role, and since 2018 that has been Commissioner Carl Heinrich. 

“It has been an honor for me to serve the 21 schools of the KJCCC,” said Heinrich. “The success of the conference over the years has been due to the presidential leadership of all our schools. The opportunity for our student athletes to get a quality education and an opportunity to continue in sports has been what the KJCCC is about.”&nbsp;

Some might say the 2020-21 year was one for the record books - both for having successfully completed competition during a global pandemic, but also for the visibility of the conference on the national stage. 

“Surviving COVID last year and the conference winning six national championships is a tribute to the administration, coaches, and players,” said Heinrich. “We are very proud of them.”&nbsp;

Looking ahead to the conference's goals for the coming year, Schears highlighted a few areas of focus, not the least of which was continuing to deal with the implications of the pandemic. 

"Last year was a significant challenge, but our coaches, athletes and referees did what needed to be done," said Schears. "As we head into this year, although we are still dealing with COVID-19, we have several new tools in the arsenal, including lessons learned, new opportunities for vaccinations, and the commitment from our colleges to reach the finish line successfully."&nbsp;

With conference competition already underway in several program, Schears and Heinrich are both looking forward to a strong year for the conference. 

“I am excited to work with Ben this year as he serves as president of the KJCCC Executive Committee,” said Heinrich. “He brings in a wealth of experience that will continue to allow our conference athletes and programs to grow and remain consistent.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632142436515.png" alt="Ben Schears" />
 <figcaption>Ben Schears</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseGOODLAND — The Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Executive Committee has a new president for the 2021-22 academic year. Ben Schears, President of Northwest Tech, began his term during the conference’s annual summer meeting in Garden City in July. "I've had the joy of working around the Jayhawk Conference for the entire duration of my career in some form or fashion and have no hesitation in saying we are in the top JUCO conference in the country," said Schears. "The success of the conference is largely due to the efforts of our past and present conference commissioners and colleges working together to create an environment where students can be successful in the classroom and competition."As it’s more commonly known, the Jayhawk Conference itself has a long-standing and successful legacy of competition dating back to its founding in 1923. As the conference approaches its centennial anniversary, one of the areas where there has been incredible continuity and stability is in the role of the Conference Commissioner. To date, there have been only eight individuals who have served in this role, and since 2018 that has been Commissioner Carl Heinrich. “It has been an honor for me to serve the 21 schools of the KJCCC,” said Heinrich. “The success of the conference over the years has been due to the presidential leadership of all our schools. The opportunity for our student athletes to get a quality education and an opportunity to continue in sports has been what the KJCCC is about.”&nbsp;Some might say the 2020-21 year was one for the record books - both for having successfully completed competition during a global pandemic, but also for the visibility of the conference on the national stage. “Surviving COVID last year and the conference winning six national championships is a tribute to the administration, coaches, and players,” said Heinrich. “We are very proud of them.”&nbsp;Looking ahead to the conference's goals for the coming year, Schears highlighted a few areas of focus, not the least of which was continuing to deal with the implications of the pandemic. "Last year was a significant challenge, but our coaches, athletes and referees did what needed to be done," said Schears. "As we head into this year, although we are still dealing with COVID-19, we have several new tools in the arsenal, including lessons learned, new opportunities for vaccinations, and the commitment from our colleges to reach the finish line successfully."&nbsp;With conference competition already underway in several program, Schears and Heinrich are both looking forward to a strong year for the conference. “I am excited to work with Ben this year as he serves as president of the KJCCC Executive Committee,” said Heinrich. “He brings in a wealth of experience that will continue to allow our conference athletes and programs to grow and remain consistent.”

Northwest Tech president to lead Jayhawk Conference

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 </figure>Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries?utm_source=direct&amp;utm_medium=direct&amp;utm_campaign=hayspost_obituary_category">HERE</a> for the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.

Recent obituaries

Three-day weather outlook

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Armyworms are so-called because they can march across fields or landscapes in large groups. That seems to be happening this year as there are reports of armyworms feeding on tilled volunteer wheat fields, to the point they have taken out a lot of the volunteer wheat, even turning it white in some fields.

That brings up the question from farmers: Is this something I should be worried about, and possibly spray an insecticide for? The short answer is no.&nbsp;

I visited with J.P. Michaud, entomologist at the Ag Research Center in Hays. Most fall armyworms should be nearing the end of their last generation this year, meaning once they reach maturity, they will pupate and then emerge as a moth. Then, due to shorter day length (winter coming), they will pack-up and head south for the winter.&nbsp;

However, this could take a few more weeks, possibly more. Primarily, this is due to the sporadic hatching of the last generation of armyworms. The first generation is pretty synchronized, but after that, the following generations develop asynchronously, meaning some larvae are still small while others have finished feeding.&nbsp;

Insecticide seed treatments do not work well against armyworms and other lepidopteran larvae.

The bottom line is early-planted wheat is at the greatest risk. Early-planted fields should be 
inspected frequently during the first few weeks following emergence. Unless you are planting early for some grazing, it is preferable in our area to plant towards the end of September and into early October. Historically, yield does not decline unless planting occurs after the second week of October.

Early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, including an increased chance of insect- or mite-transmitted viral diseases, or decreased emergence due to high temperatures. Ideally, growers should consider planting within the optimum window, but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers might also consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.&nbsp;

Young fall armyworms are ½ to 3/4 inch long, and are 1 ½ inches long at maturity. Body color may vary from green to almost black, but light stripes will be visible along the length of the body. Look for a whitish inverted "Y" on the face. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to develop from egg to pupa. The adult is a moth.

Another question that may arise is, do I still need to spray or till under the volunteer wheat that had heavy armyworm feeding? I would err on the side of caution and still do so, as I doubt that every single volunteer wheat plant is completely dead. Also, please keep in mind that all volunteer wheat should be killed within a mile of any new planting, ideally two weeks beforehand.&nbsp;

If you have any questions give us a call or email--Stacy Campbell 785-628-9430, <a href="mailto:scampbel@ksu.edu">scampbel@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; J.P. Michaud 785-625-3425, <a href="mailto:jpmi@ksu.edu">jpmi@ksu.edu</a> &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631724155056.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictArmyworms are so-called because they can march across fields or landscapes in large groups. That seems to be happening this year as there are reports of armyworms feeding on tilled volunteer wheat fields, to the point they have taken out a lot of the volunteer wheat, even turning it white in some fields.That brings up the question from farmers: Is this something I should be worried about, and possibly spray an insecticide for? The short answer is no.&nbsp;I visited with J.P. Michaud, entomologist at the Ag Research Center in Hays. Most fall armyworms should be nearing the end of their last generation this year, meaning once they reach maturity, they will pupate and then emerge as a moth. Then, due to shorter day length (winter coming), they will pack-up and head south for the winter.&nbsp;However, this could take a few more weeks, possibly more. Primarily, this is due to the sporadic hatching of the last generation of armyworms. The first generation is pretty synchronized, but after that, the following generations develop asynchronously, meaning some larvae are still small while others have finished feeding.&nbsp;Insecticide seed treatments do not work well against armyworms and other lepidopteran larvae.The bottom line is early-planted wheat is at the greatest risk. Early-planted fields should be 
inspected frequently during the first few weeks following emergence. Unless you are planting early for some grazing, it is preferable in our area to plant towards the end of September and into early October. Historically, yield does not decline unless planting occurs after the second week of October.Early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, including an increased chance of insect- or mite-transmitted viral diseases, or decreased emergence due to high temperatures. Ideally, growers should consider planting within the optimum window, but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers might also consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.&nbsp;Young fall armyworms are ½ to 3/4 inch long, and are 1 ½ inches long at maturity. Body color may vary from green to almost black, but light stripes will be visible along the length of the body. Look for a whitish inverted "Y" on the face. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to develop from egg to pupa. The adult is a moth.Another question that may arise is, do I still need to spray or till under the volunteer wheat that had heavy armyworm feeding? I would err on the side of caution and still do so, as I doubt that every single volunteer wheat plant is completely dead. Also, please keep in mind that all volunteer wheat should be killed within a mile of any new planting, ideally two weeks beforehand.&nbsp;If you have any questions give us a call or email--Stacy Campbell 785-628-9430, <a href="mailto:scampbel@ksu.edu">scampbel@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; J.P. Michaud 785-625-3425, <a href="mailto:jpmi@ksu.edu">jpmi@ksu.edu</a> &nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Fall armyworms are abundant in farmer’s fields 


WICHITA — 
The Kapaun Family and the Diocese of Wichita are planning the transport of Father Emil Kapaun’s remains to Wichita in just a few days.

Following a send-off Mass at the Cathedral in Honolulu, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, September 25, 2021. 

A procession will depart from the airport and Father Kapaun will arrive home at St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen on September 26 for a private homecoming and observance.&nbsp;

From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman Arena on September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 p.m. On Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Following the Mass of Christian Burial at Hartman Arena, Father Kapaun's remains will process from Veterans Memorial Park (339 Veterans Memorial Pkwy) by way of horse-drawn caisson from&nbsp;1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.

WICHITA — 
The Kapaun Family and the Diocese of Wichita are planning the transport of Father Emil Kapaun’s remains to Wichita in just a few days.Following a send-off Mass at the Cathedral in Honolulu, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, September 25, 2021. A procession will depart from the airport and Father Kapaun will arrive home at St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen on September 26 for a private homecoming and observance.&nbsp;From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman Arena on September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 p.m. On Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Following the Mass of Christian Burial at Hartman Arena, Father Kapaun's remains will process from Veterans Memorial Park (339 Veterans Memorial Pkwy) by way of horse-drawn caisson from&nbsp;1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.

Remains of Fr. Emil Kapaun to return to Kansas later this month

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 14 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

The KDHE also reported an additional coronavirus-related death, bringing the total to 75.

There have been 456 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

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

As of Monday morning, there were 11 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 13 Friday.

The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,260 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632158211089.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 14 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.The KDHE also reported an additional coronavirus-related death, bringing the total to 75.There have been 456 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, there were 11 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 13 Friday.The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,260 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 14 new virus cases, additional death in Ellis Co. since Friday

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Holy Family Elementary fourth-grade teacher Maddy Quimby shares information about the Christ's Cupboard program.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Christ‘s Cupboard ministry helps area children with food insecurity" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=iac4x-10e4ecf-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Holy Family Elementary fourth-grade teacher Maddy Quimby shares information about the Christ's Cupboard program.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Christ‘s Cupboard ministry helps area children with food insecurity

A softball tournament Sunday raised $200 that will go to a relief vehicle for local firefighters.&nbsp;The Hays Police Department won the tournament this year. In second place was the Hays Fire Department with Ellis County EMS taking third.

Submitted<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632154022216.jpeg" alt="Members of all three teams that played in the fundraiser — the Hays Police and Fire departments and Ellis County EMS. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Members of all three teams that played in the fundraiser — the Hays Police and Fire departments and Ellis County EMS. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A softball tournament Sunday raised $200 that will go to a relief vehicle for local firefighters.&nbsp;The Hays Police Department won the tournament this year. In second place was the Hays Fire Department with Ellis County EMS taking third.

Softball tournament raises funds for firefighter relief vehicle

Corrected Sept. 20 for the correct phone number to book rides.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

WAKEENEY — After a wait of more than nine months, WaKeeney has received a new van to provide public transportation outside of the city limits.

The city already has a public transportation program within the city, but this van will be used to take local residents to appointments in Hays, Hill City or Quinter.&nbsp;

Rural Trego County residents can also request rides to WaKeeney. The program has set a 60-mile limit but may make some exceptions for further distances based on driver and van availability,&nbsp;Nancy Bollig, parish nurse for the Prairie Faith Shared Ministry.&nbsp; She helped organize the grant applications for the van.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b7c64cb-b66c-496c-9892-6513a0a08d34">The city received a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation for 100 percent of the purchase cost of the van, as well as $3,748 from the Heartland Community Foundation to use toward the start-up costs.</a>

To book a ride, residents need to call 785-743-8014 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m Mondays through Fridays.

This also will be the run times for the van.&nbsp;

Passengers will need to call for rides at least 24 hours in advance or by Friday for a Monday ride. The program is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so scheduling in advance is preferred.

The cost will be $10 round trip from WaKeeney to Hays, $7 round trip from WaKeeney to Ellis, Hill City or Quinter. Other rides will be 30 cents per mile.

The goal of the program is to provide transportation to all local residents regardless of the ability to pay. Bollig said she is still trying to work out the details of that part of the program.

The van the city purchased with the KDOT funds is handicap accessible with a lift. It can carry up to 10 people, depending on the seat configuration. Seats can be removed to accommodate wheelchairs.

Drivers and riders will be required to mask per federal regulations as a precaution against COVID.

Although the program sprang from a need for local residents to attend medical, mental health and dental appointments, Bollig said she hopes the van could be used to meet residents' social needs as well.

She said if a driver is available, she envisions groups going to Hays or Hill City for movies or plays.

She said the van may also be able to run early hours if a passenger needs to get to Hays for early morning medical procedures.

The idea for the program sprang from a&nbsp;Strategic Doing session, sponsored by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. A small community group was formed.

The group researched what other counties were doing and found both Gove and Rooks counties have similar successful programs.

Bollig thanked the Heartland Community Foundation for its support, which paid for a cell phone for the program, a child safety seat, advertising, and Department of Transportation physicals and driver training.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631808023014.jpeg" alt="WaKeeney recently bought a van with grant funds to begin out-of-town public transportation. From left: Terry Rush, Ed Schmeidler, Michelle Rauch (three of the van drivers). Jacque Hobbs is the other fully trained driver, not pictured." />
 <figcaption>WaKeeney recently bought a van with grant funds to begin out-of-town public transportation. From left: Terry Rush, Ed Schmeidler, Michelle Rauch (three of the van drivers). Jacque Hobbs is the other fully trained driver, not pictured.</figcaption>
 </figure>Corrected Sept. 20 for the correct phone number to book rides.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWAKEENEY — After a wait of more than nine months, WaKeeney has received a new van to provide public transportation outside of the city limits.The city already has a public transportation program within the city, but this van will be used to take local residents to appointments in Hays, Hill City or Quinter.&nbsp;Service begins Wednesday.Rural Trego County residents can also request rides to WaKeeney. The program has set a 60-mile limit but may make some exceptions for further distances based on driver and van availability,&nbsp;Nancy Bollig, parish nurse for the Prairie Faith Shared Ministry.&nbsp; She helped organize the grant applications for the van.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b7c64cb-b66c-496c-9892-6513a0a08d34">The city received a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation for 100 percent of the purchase cost of the van, as well as $3,748 from the Heartland Community Foundation to use toward the start-up costs.</a>To book a ride, residents need to call 785-743-8014 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m Mondays through Fridays.This also will be the run times for the van.&nbsp;Passengers will need to call for rides at least 24 hours in advance or by Friday for a Monday ride. The program is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so scheduling in advance is preferred.The cost will be $10 round trip from WaKeeney to Hays, $7 round trip from WaKeeney to Ellis, Hill City or Quinter. Other rides will be 30 cents per mile.The goal of the program is to provide transportation to all local residents regardless of the ability to pay. Bollig said she is still trying to work out the details of that part of the program.The van the city purchased with the KDOT funds is handicap accessible with a lift. It can carry up to 10 people, depending on the seat configuration. Seats can be removed to accommodate wheelchairs.Drivers and riders will be required to mask per federal regulations as a precaution against COVID.Although the program sprang from a need for local residents to attend medical, mental health and dental appointments, Bollig said she hopes the van could be used to meet residents' social needs as well.She said if a driver is available, she envisions groups going to Hays or Hill City for movies or plays.She said the van may also be able to run early hours if a passenger needs to get to Hays for early morning medical procedures.The idea for the program sprang from a&nbsp;Strategic Doing session, sponsored by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. A small community group was formed.The group researched what other counties were doing and found both Gove and Rooks counties have similar successful programs.Bollig thanked the Heartland Community Foundation for its support, which paid for a cell phone for the program, a child safety seat, advertising, and Department of Transportation physicals and driver training.

UPDATED: WaKeeney to start out-of-town transportation service

HaysMed’s annual drive-through flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 26. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.&nbsp; The time this year has changed to 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the safety of the public and those working the flu drive, masks will be required for all people ages 2 years and up.&nbsp; In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.

It will be the 22nd year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.

People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles.&nbsp; HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu">https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a>&nbsp;and make copies to complete.

Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement.&nbsp; Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.

There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-through flu shot clinic.&nbsp; There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-through flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625771878390.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed’s annual drive-through flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 26. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.&nbsp; The time this year has changed to 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For the safety of the public and those working the flu drive, masks will be required for all people ages 2 years and up.&nbsp; In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.It will be the 22nd year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles.&nbsp; HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu">https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a>&nbsp;and make copies to complete.Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement.&nbsp; Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-through flu shot clinic.&nbsp; There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-through flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.&nbsp;

Drive-through flu shots available this month at HaysMed

JAG-K Students have a 97 percent graduation rate statewide

TOPEKA — The Hays High School Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas program has earned the prestigious “5 of 5 Award” for 2021.&nbsp;

The evidence-based program helps students prepare for post-secondary education and employment opportunities. JAG-K programs across the state, serving approximately 4,000 students, reported a graduation rate of 97 percent for the Class of 2020.&nbsp;

The 5 of 5 Award is bestowed upon those JAG programs that meet or exceed performance measures in five categories: graduation rate, successful outcomes, employment, post-secondary enrollment and job placement. JAG has a 12-month follow-up period with all seniors as part of its evidence-based, data-driven national model.&nbsp;

The JAG national organization announced that for the seventh consecutive year, JAG-K earned the Jobs for America’s Graduates State 5 of 5 Award.&nbsp;

“To receive the 5 of 5 Award for the seventh year in a row is special. But it’s an even more impressive accomplishment by our Career Specialists and staff to achieve it during the pandemic,” said JAG-K President/CEO Chuck Knapp. “The JAG model proved in the face of adversity to effectively prepare students for successful futures.

“We are proud of each of our schools who qualified for this&nbsp;JAG-K is a multi-year, in-school program for students in grades seven through 12 that offers tools to successfully transition students into post-secondary school, the military, or directly into the workforce with marketable skills. Participants in the program face multiple barriers to success that their JAG-K Career Specialist helps them overcome through a nationally-accredited, evidence-based model.&nbsp;

The 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is a state affiliate of the national JAG program network which operates in 40 different states and territories. It is primarily funded through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant to the State of Kansas administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families. In addition to school districts and DCF, JAG-K partners with the Kansas Department of Education. Other JAG-K funding sources include AT&amp;T, Capitol Federal, John Deere, Synchrony Financial and Taco Bell.

To learn more about JAG-K, visit <a href="http://www.jagkansas.org">www.jagkansas.org</a>, ‘Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas’ on Facebook, and on Twitter at @JAG_Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631811476186.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>JAG-K Students have a 97 percent graduation rate statewide</h2>News releaseTOPEKA — The Hays High School Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas program has earned the prestigious “5 of 5 Award” for 2021.&nbsp;The evidence-based program helps students prepare for post-secondary education and employment opportunities. JAG-K programs across the state, serving approximately 4,000 students, reported a graduation rate of 97 percent for the Class of 2020.&nbsp;The 5 of 5 Award is bestowed upon those JAG programs that meet or exceed performance measures in five categories: graduation rate, successful outcomes, employment, post-secondary enrollment and job placement. JAG has a 12-month follow-up period with all seniors as part of its evidence-based, data-driven national model.&nbsp;The JAG national organization announced that for the seventh consecutive year, JAG-K earned the Jobs for America’s Graduates State 5 of 5 Award.&nbsp;“To receive the 5 of 5 Award for the seventh year in a row is special. But it’s an even more impressive accomplishment by our Career Specialists and staff to achieve it during the pandemic,” said JAG-K President/CEO Chuck Knapp. “The JAG model proved in the face of adversity to effectively prepare students for successful futures.“We are proud of each of our schools who qualified for this&nbsp;JAG-K is a multi-year, in-school program for students in grades seven through 12 that offers tools to successfully transition students into post-secondary school, the military, or directly into the workforce with marketable skills. Participants in the program face multiple barriers to success that their JAG-K Career Specialist helps them overcome through a nationally-accredited, evidence-based model.&nbsp;The 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is a state affiliate of the national JAG program network which operates in 40 different states and territories. It is primarily funded through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant to the State of Kansas administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families. In addition to school districts and DCF, JAG-K partners with the Kansas Department of Education. Other JAG-K funding sources include AT&amp;T, Capitol Federal, John Deere, Synchrony Financial and Taco Bell.To learn more about JAG-K, visit <a href="http://www.jagkansas.org">www.jagkansas.org</a>, ‘Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas’ on Facebook, and on Twitter at @JAG_Kansas.

Hays High JAG-K program earns top national honor

By DAVID CONDOS <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-09-17/rural-suicide-rates-are-rising-in-kansas-and-solutions-wont-come-easy">Kansas News Service</a>

Kyle Carlin understands first-hand how hard a mental health crisis can hit in rural Kansas. 

He dealt with depression starting as a teenager. It eventually led him to attempt suicide.

But
 he didn’t think about seeking counseling until he was preparing to 
leave the Army Reserve in Hays roughly 12 years ago. Even then, asking 
for help wasn’t easy.

“Stigma is such a big issue around mental health,” Carlin said, “especially in western Kansas.”

His story illustrates a growing trend stressing rural communities across Kansas and the nation.

While suicide rates have increased by nearly <a href="https://www.khi.org/policy/article/21-41" target="_blank">45%</a> statewide over the past two decades, rates have risen most sharply in the most sparsely populated parts of Kansas.

A new Kansas Health Institute <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/15207/urban-rural_differences_in_suicide_rates_and_leading_means_in_kansas.pdf" target="_blank">analysis</a>
 of state data shows that suicide rates climbed in rural and frontier 
counties by roughly 55% and 60% respectively from 2000 to 2019, 
significantly outpacing the increases in mid-sized cities and urban 
areas.

For frontier counties — the least populated parts of the 
state — the KHI analysis also revealed a troubling rise in the rate of 
suicides that used firearms, which was notably higher than the rate in 
rural areas with more residents. (The institute and the Kansas News 
Service both receive significant funding from the Kansas Health 
Foundation.)

And a variety of factors — from scarce resources to cultural stigmas 
to economic hardships — continue to put rural Kansans at risk.

That’s why Carlin volunteers with the local chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to put on a <a href="https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&amp;eventID=7984" target="_blank">suicide prevention walk</a> happening this month in Hays: He hopes it can make it easier for others to reach out for help like he did years ago.

“The
 difference for me was recognizing that you can’t just muscle through 
it,” Carlin said. “There are times when you need support outside of 
yourself.”

Bradley Dirks, a behavioral health specialist with 
K-State Research and Extension, said that the geographic isolation that 
generally accompanies rural life is often compounded by a culture that 
rewards toughness, grit and self-sufficiency.

“We don’t want to 
look weak, particularly as a male, particularly in a rural agriculture 
setting,” Dirks said. “So to go to someone and say, ‘Look, I'm at the 
end of my rope, I need help,’ is really difficult.”

That mindset, 
plus the limited number of counseling options nearby and the challenge 
of finding anonymity in a small town, fuels the stigma that often keeps 
people from getting the help they need.

“If someone goes to a 
local therapist, and everybody sees the pickup out in front,” he said, 
“There's that stigma: ‘Oh, what's wrong with so and so?’”

Meanwhile,
 Dirks said the COVID-19 pandemic has multiplied the layers of stress 
piling onto rural Kansans as people have lost jobs, scrambled to find 
child care when schools closed and felt heightened tensions within the 
community as everyday discussions became politicized.

“It’d be 
abnormal,” he said, “if you were to come to me and say, ‘Hey, no, 
everything's cool, everything's good’ in today’s climate.”

The growing risk of suicide in rural Kansas mirrors national trends over the past two decades, with suicides occuring at <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/ss/ss6618a1.htm" target="_blank">much higher rates</a> in rural parts of the U.S. compared to urban areas. (National <a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-suicide-prevention-coronavirus-pandemic-d8d9168403baa6660e5125c040b2ae81" target="_blank">suicide rates actually dropped 6%</a> last year during the pandemic.)

It’s
 an issue that’s especially pressing in many of the neighboring Great 
Plains states that share some cultural and economic similarities with 
western Kansas. Colorado, Oklahoma, Wyoming and South Dakota all rank 
among the nation’s <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm" target="_blank">highest per capita</a> suicide rates. Kansas currently ranks <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm" target="_blank">16th nationally</a>.

Suicide is now the <a href="https://www.khi.org/policy/article/21-41" target="_blank">ninth-leading</a> cause of death in the state and the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/14753Kq1TWARB-mkRihKGdQkawuF17nAU/view" target="_blank">second leading</a> cause of death for Kansans aged 15 to 34.

Wyatt
 Beckman, an analyst who worked on the Kansas Health Institute report, 
said the mental health challenges rural Kansans face demand different 
approaches than what works in Kansas City or Wichita.

“Rural 
communities aren’t simply smaller versions of cities,” Beckman said. 
“Suicide prevention efforts that we design and implement and evaluate in
 an urban context … can’t always be copied into rural communities.”

What’s
 more, Beckman said that even across western Kansas, significant 
differences exist from one county to the next — such as whether 
residents live in a town of 15,000 or 150 people and whether the nearest
 mental health clinic is 10 or 100 miles away.

For the KHI report, sparsely populated counties were categorized 
either as rural, with between six and 20 people per square mile, or 
frontier, with fewer than six people per square mile. Combined, they 
account for <a href="http://kic.kdheks.gov/OHA/ksmap.html#peer" target="_blank">more than half</a> of Kansas counties and comprise nearly all of the western half of the state.

Beckman
 grew up in Ness County, one of the many frontier counties in western 
Kansas with fewer than 3,000 residents. He said that makes the 
challenges people face in Ness County very different from those in 
neighboring Ellis County — Hays is the county seat — which has more than 20,000 residents.

If
 national and state initiatives don’t customize their approaches to 
understand those nuances between rural communities, people will continue
 to fall through the cracks.

For example, the per capita number of
 people dying by suicide with a gun in rural counties is similar to the 
statewide average. But the suicide-by-firearm rate in frontier counties 
is more than <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/15207/urban-rural_differences_in_suicide_rates_and_leading_means_in_kansas.pdf" target="_blank">1.5 times higher</a> than rural counties.

That could call for new suicide prevention strategies specifically designed for gun owners in those frontier communities.

Beckman pointed to a <a href="https://vtspc.org/gun-shop-project/?doing_wp_cron=1631753545.4202458858489990234375" target="_blank">Vermont initiative</a> that partners with gun shops and firing ranges to promote suicide awareness with materials written by gun owners and a <a href="https://coloradofirearmsafetycoalition.org/gun-storage-map/" target="_blank">Colorado coalition</a> that provides a statewide network of temporary, voluntary gun storage locations for gun owners in crisis.

“It
 could be easy to lump all of (the rural counties) together and say 
they’re all the same,” he said. “But the data show that they're facing 
different rates of suicide by firearm, and underneath that, there are 
likely different challenges and different needs for suicide prevention.”

For rural Kansans who want to reach out for help, there are resources available.

For example, the state department of agriculture partnered with farming organizations to set up an <a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/" target="_blank">initiative</a>
 called Kansas Ag Stress that offers support designed for farmers, 
ranchers and their families. A 2017 University of Iowa study found that 
the average suicide rate among American farmers and ranchers was <a href="https://investigatemidwest.org/2020/03/05/seeds-of-despair-isolated-and-with-limited-access-to-mental-health-care-hundreds-are-dying-by-suicide/" target="_blank">3.5 times</a> that of the general public.

Businesses, churches or other community organizations in Kansas can contact their local <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University extension office</a>
 to have an agent offer training on mental health first aid and suicide 
prevention to their group. The training can be customized for the 
audience and range from 15 minutes to a few hours.

Kansas also has a network of <a href="https://www.acmhck.org/resources/cmhc-map/" target="_blank">community mental health centers</a> that offer care at locations spread throughout the state, including Garden City, Liberal, Greensburg and Hays.

But for people living in frontier counties, it might still be a challenge to reach them. The Hays-based center, <a href="http://www.hpmhc.com" target="_blank">High Plains Mental Health Center</a>, serves 17 counties spanning more than 15,000 square miles.

Dirks,
 the K-State extension agent, grew up in a farm family in Iowa and has 
worked in rural mental health settings for much of his 40-year career. 
He said that it’s key for mental health providers in rural areas to 
understand the ways that people in those communities tend to downplay 
mental and emotional struggles and learn how to spot the subtle signs of
 distress before they lead to crisis.

“In cultures where you can’t
 admit that you are struggling,” he said, “when someone does mention 
something, it is probably the tip of the iceberg.”

But nearly all rural counties in Kansas have a <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2019-12-27/kansas-sees-shortage-of-psychiatrists-and-other-mental-health-providers" target="_blank">shortage</a> of mental health providers, and it can be challenging for centers in less populated areas to attract and retain specialists.

Still, Dirks said he’s starting to see rural attitudes toward mental health slowly change.

“We
 think it’s weakness,” Dirks said. “I turn that upside down and say I 
think it's a sign of strength … for someone to say, ‘Look, I need 
help.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631896087181.png" alt="File photo / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>File photo / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID CONDOS <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-09-17/rural-suicide-rates-are-rising-in-kansas-and-solutions-wont-come-easy">Kansas News Service</a>Kyle Carlin understands first-hand how hard a mental health crisis can hit in rural Kansas. He dealt with depression starting as a teenager. It eventually led him to attempt suicide.But
 he didn’t think about seeking counseling until he was preparing to 
leave the Army Reserve in Hays roughly 12 years ago. Even then, asking 
for help wasn’t easy.“Stigma is such a big issue around mental health,” Carlin said, “especially in western Kansas.”His story illustrates a growing trend stressing rural communities across Kansas and the nation.While suicide rates have increased by nearly <a href="https://www.khi.org/policy/article/21-41" target="_blank">45%</a> statewide over the past two decades, rates have risen most sharply in the most sparsely populated parts of Kansas.A new Kansas Health Institute <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/15207/urban-rural_differences_in_suicide_rates_and_leading_means_in_kansas.pdf" target="_blank">analysis</a>
 of state data shows that suicide rates climbed in rural and frontier 
counties by roughly 55% and 60% respectively from 2000 to 2019, 
significantly outpacing the increases in mid-sized cities and urban 
areas.For frontier counties — the least populated parts of the 
state — the KHI analysis also revealed a troubling rise in the rate of 
suicides that used firearms, which was notably higher than the rate in 
rural areas with more residents. (The institute and the Kansas News 
Service both receive significant funding from the Kansas Health 
Foundation.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631896147821.png" alt="This graph from the Kansas Health Institute report shows how suicide rates in rural and frontier counties have risen compared with the rest of the state. Courtesy of the Kansas Health Institute" />
 <figcaption>This graph from the Kansas Health Institute report shows how suicide rates in rural and frontier counties have risen compared with the rest of the state. Courtesy of the Kansas Health Institute</figcaption>
 </figure>And a variety of factors — from scarce resources to cultural stigmas 
to economic hardships — continue to put rural Kansans at risk.That’s why Carlin volunteers with the local chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to put on a <a href="https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&amp;eventID=7984" target="_blank">suicide prevention walk</a> happening this month in Hays: He hopes it can make it easier for others to reach out for help like he did years ago.“The
 difference for me was recognizing that you can’t just muscle through 
it,” Carlin said. “There are times when you need support outside of 
yourself.”Bradley Dirks, a behavioral health specialist with 
K-State Research and Extension, said that the geographic isolation that 
generally accompanies rural life is often compounded by a culture that 
rewards toughness, grit and self-sufficiency.“We don’t want to 
look weak, particularly as a male, particularly in a rural agriculture 
setting,” Dirks said. “So to go to someone and say, ‘Look, I'm at the 
end of my rope, I need help,’ is really difficult.”That mindset, 
plus the limited number of counseling options nearby and the challenge 
of finding anonymity in a small town, fuels the stigma that often keeps 
people from getting the help they need.“If someone goes to a 
local therapist, and everybody sees the pickup out in front,” he said, 
“There's that stigma: ‘Oh, what's wrong with so and so?’”Meanwhile,
 Dirks said the COVID-19 pandemic has multiplied the layers of stress 
piling onto rural Kansans as people have lost jobs, scrambled to find 
child care when schools closed and felt heightened tensions within the 
community as everyday discussions became politicized.“It’d be 
abnormal,” he said, “if you were to come to me and say, ‘Hey, no, 
everything's cool, everything's good’ in today’s climate.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631896193443.png" alt="People gather for a suicide prevention and awareness walk in Hays in 2018. Courtesy of Kyle Carlin" />
 <figcaption>People gather for a suicide prevention and awareness walk in Hays in 2018. Courtesy of Kyle Carlin</figcaption>
 </figure>Rural differencesThe growing risk of suicide in rural Kansas mirrors national trends over the past two decades, with suicides occuring at <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/ss/ss6618a1.htm" target="_blank">much higher rates</a> in rural parts of the U.S. compared to urban areas. (National <a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-suicide-prevention-coronavirus-pandemic-d8d9168403baa6660e5125c040b2ae81" target="_blank">suicide rates actually dropped 6%</a> last year during the pandemic.)It’s
 an issue that’s especially pressing in many of the neighboring Great 
Plains states that share some cultural and economic similarities with 
western Kansas. Colorado, Oklahoma, Wyoming and South Dakota all rank 
among the nation’s <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm" target="_blank">highest per capita</a> suicide rates. Kansas currently ranks <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm" target="_blank">16th nationally</a>.Suicide is now the <a href="https://www.khi.org/policy/article/21-41" target="_blank">ninth-leading</a> cause of death in the state and the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/14753Kq1TWARB-mkRihKGdQkawuF17nAU/view" target="_blank">second leading</a> cause of death for Kansans aged 15 to 34.Wyatt
 Beckman, an analyst who worked on the Kansas Health Institute report, 
said the mental health challenges rural Kansans face demand different 
approaches than what works in Kansas City or Wichita.“Rural 
communities aren’t simply smaller versions of cities,” Beckman said. 
“Suicide prevention efforts that we design and implement and evaluate in
 an urban context … can’t always be copied into rural communities.”What’s
 more, Beckman said that even across western Kansas, significant 
differences exist from one county to the next — such as whether 
residents live in a town of 15,000 or 150 people and whether the nearest
 mental health clinic is 10 or 100 miles away.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631896227706.png" alt="This map of Kansas from the state department of health shows how counties were grouped by population density for the KHI analysis. Rural counties are shown in blue, and frontier counties are shown in white." />
 <figcaption>This map of Kansas from the state department of health shows how counties were grouped by population density for the KHI analysis. Rural counties are shown in blue, and frontier counties are shown in white.</figcaption>
 </figure>For the KHI report, sparsely populated counties were categorized 
either as rural, with between six and 20 people per square mile, or 
frontier, with fewer than six people per square mile. Combined, they 
account for <a href="http://kic.kdheks.gov/OHA/ksmap.html#peer" target="_blank">more than half</a> of Kansas counties and comprise nearly all of the western half of the state.Beckman
 grew up in Ness County, one of the many frontier counties in western 
Kansas with fewer than 3,000 residents. He said that makes the 
challenges people face in Ness County very different from those in 
neighboring Ellis County — Hays is the county seat — which has more than 20,000 residents.If
 national and state initiatives don’t customize their approaches to 
understand those nuances between rural communities, people will continue
 to fall through the cracks.For example, the per capita number of
 people dying by suicide with a gun in rural counties is similar to the 
statewide average. But the suicide-by-firearm rate in frontier counties 
is more than <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/15207/urban-rural_differences_in_suicide_rates_and_leading_means_in_kansas.pdf" target="_blank">1.5 times higher</a> than rural counties.That could call for new suicide prevention strategies specifically designed for gun owners in those frontier communities. Beckman pointed to a <a href="https://vtspc.org/gun-shop-project/?doing_wp_cron=1631753545.4202458858489990234375" target="_blank">Vermont initiative</a> that partners with gun shops and firing ranges to promote suicide awareness with materials written by gun owners and a <a href="https://coloradofirearmsafetycoalition.org/gun-storage-map/" target="_blank">Colorado coalition</a> that provides a statewide network of temporary, voluntary gun storage locations for gun owners in crisis.“It
 could be easy to lump all of (the rural counties) together and say 
they’re all the same,” he said. “But the data show that they're facing 
different rates of suicide by firearm, and underneath that, there are 
likely different challenges and different needs for suicide prevention.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631896264172.png" alt="This graph from the KHI report shows the growing gap between suicide-by-firearm rates in frontier counties and the rest of the state." />
 <figcaption>This graph from the KHI report shows the growing gap between suicide-by-firearm rates in frontier counties and the rest of the state.</figcaption>
 </figure>‘A sign of strength’For rural Kansans who want to reach out for help, there are resources available.For example, the state department of agriculture partnered with farming organizations to set up an <a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/" target="_blank">initiative</a>
 called Kansas Ag Stress that offers support designed for farmers, 
ranchers and their families. A 2017 University of Iowa study found that 
the average suicide rate among American farmers and ranchers was <a href="https://investigatemidwest.org/2020/03/05/seeds-of-despair-isolated-and-with-limited-access-to-mental-health-care-hundreds-are-dying-by-suicide/" target="_blank">3.5 times</a> that of the general public.Businesses, churches or other community organizations in Kansas can contact their local <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University extension office</a>
 to have an agent offer training on mental health first aid and suicide 
prevention to their group. The training can be customized for the 
audience and range from 15 minutes to a few hours.Kansas also has a network of <a href="https://www.acmhck.org/resources/cmhc-map/" target="_blank">community mental health centers</a> that offer care at locations spread throughout the state, including Garden City, Liberal, Greensburg and Hays. But for people living in frontier counties, it might still be a challenge to reach them. The Hays-based center, <a href="http://www.hpmhc.com" target="_blank">High Plains Mental Health Center</a>, serves 17 counties spanning more than 15,000 square miles.Dirks,
 the K-State extension agent, grew up in a farm family in Iowa and has 
worked in rural mental health settings for much of his 40-year career. 
He said that it’s key for mental health providers in rural areas to 
understand the ways that people in those communities tend to downplay 
mental and emotional struggles and learn how to spot the subtle signs of
 distress before they lead to crisis.“In cultures where you can’t
 admit that you are struggling,” he said, “when someone does mention 
something, it is probably the tip of the iceberg.”But nearly all rural counties in Kansas have a <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2019-12-27/kansas-sees-shortage-of-psychiatrists-and-other-mental-health-providers" target="_blank">shortage</a> of mental health providers, and it can be challenging for centers in less populated areas to attract and retain specialists.Still, Dirks said he’s starting to see rural attitudes toward mental health slowly change.“We
 think it’s weakness,” Dirks said. “I turn that upside down and say I 
think it's a sign of strength … for someone to say, ‘Look, I need 
help.’”If you are considering suicide, please contact the national <a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" target="_blank">suicide prevention helpline</a> anytime by calling 800-273-8255 or texting “HOME” to 741741.If
 you would like to talk with someone in Kansas about what you or a loved
 one are going through, here are some regional resources that can help:<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Ag Stress</a> helpline 800-447-1985High Plains Mental Health Center in <a href="http://www.hpmhc.com/" target="_blank">Hays</a> 785-628-2871Compass Behavioral Health in <a href="http://www.compassbh.org/" target="_blank">Garden City</a> 620-276-7689Southwest Guidance Center in <a href="http://www.swgccmhc.org/" target="_blank">Liberal</a> 620-624-8171Iroquois Center for Human Development in <a href="http://www.irqcenter.com/" target="_blank">Greensburg</a> 620-723-2272David Condos covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/davidcondos" target="_blank">@davidcondos</a>.

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