Has High girls and boys vs Hugoton Saturday, Dec. 6 – 5:00 p.m. &amp; 7:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KHAZ (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1784738"> CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

The Hays High Indians play in the championship games of the 42nd Annual Hays City Shootout. The girls face Life Prep while the boys take on Blue Valley Northwest. It is the first time since 2003 that both the girls and boys have made the finals in the same year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="HHS Listen Live" />
 <figcaption>HHS Listen Live</figcaption>
 </figure>Has High girls and boys vs Hugoton Saturday, Dec. 6 – 5:00 p.m. &amp; 7:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1784738"> CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a> The Hays High Indians play in the championship games of the 42nd Annual Hays City Shootout. The girls face Life Prep while the boys take on Blue Valley Northwest. It is the first time since 2003 that both the girls and boys have made the finals in the same year.

🏀🎥 Hays High girls and boys battle for Shootout titles

TMP-Marian girls vs Newton Saturday, Dec. 7 – 10:00 a.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1784786">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs girls take on Newton and the boys play Manhattan in the 7th-place games of the Hays City Shootout Saturday at Hays Middle School.

The Monarch girls are coming off a loss to Manhattan on Friday night while Newton lost to Olathe West.

Tipoff of the game is set for 10&nbsp;a.m. from Hays Middle School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

TMP-Marian boys vs Manhattan Saturday, Dec. 7 – 11:45 a.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1784794">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP boys will play Manhattan in the 7th-place game of the Hays City Shootout on Saturday morning at approximately 11:45 a.m.

TMP is coming off a loss to Newton, while Manhattan lost to Life Prep.

The game's tipoff is set for 11:45 a.m. from Hays Middle School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian girls vs Newton Saturday, Dec. 7 – 10:00 a.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1784786">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs girls take on Newton and the boys play Manhattan in the 7th-place games of the Hays City Shootout Saturday at Hays Middle School.The Monarch girls are coming off a loss to Manhattan on Friday night while Newton lost to Olathe West.Tipoff of the game is set for 10&nbsp;a.m. from Hays Middle School on the Monarchs Sports Network.TMP-Marian boys vs Manhattan Saturday, Dec. 7 – 11:45 a.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1784794">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP boys will play Manhattan in the 7th-place game of the Hays City Shootout on Saturday morning at approximately 11:45 a.m.TMP is coming off a loss to Newton, while Manhattan lost to Life Prep.The game's tipoff is set for 11:45 a.m. from Hays Middle School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP takes on Newton/Manhattan in Shootout 7th place games

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays City Commissioner Alaina Cunningham summed up the commission's consensus Thursday as they discussed engineering services for extending utilities for the development of city-owned property just northeast of Interstate 70 Exit 161.

"It's a long-term plan. We're not going to build this out tomorrow. ... It's looking for what we need in 10 and 20 years," she said.

"We are designing it to keep it as flexible as we can. ... At some point, we'll have to make some decisions," said Tom Howie, Hays project manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city purchased the 93 acres, known as the Braun property, in 2019 for&nbsp;continued growth and development opportunities. Hays aims for a 1% population increase each year.

A 2023 feasibility study by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, includes residential mixed housing, commercial business, offices, restaurants, hotels, walking trails, open space and public art.

City commissioners will consider awarding a $118,750 low bid from Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, at their Dec. 12 meeting.

Hays has already been <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc8ac5a9-8e28-48ec-a7ab-6c3eeab9f02d">awarded $4 million in state funding for retail development</a> as part of the proposed project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm very focused on retail development in this community, as are many," said Mayor Sandy Jacobs.

"I think we need to be looking at everything possible we can do to make ourselves attractive to people out there, and I know Grow Hays is working closely with a broker to find (it)."&nbsp;

City Manager Toby Dougherty said the project can be likened to when the city first extended utilities north from Vine Street under I-70 to the current thriving retail/business corridor.

"This is a long-term potential commercial corridor for us," Dougherty said, "not just the city's property but the other properties around it. The first significant step is getting utilities punched into there."

&nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil said many people wondered why the city bought the property.

"This shows that we're serious about development. ... We need retail. It's a priority," he said.

Musil also wants to see a new convention center built at that location "to bring events back to town. That helps everything."

Hays' general fund is primarily funded by the city's local sales tax.&nbsp;

In other business, Jeff Crispin, water resources director, discussed demolishing obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.&nbsp;

Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;

One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if highly contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.

A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000.

Crispin said the newly opened area would be planted with grass.

Jeff Boyle, parks director, discussed the east multi-use connector paths. These paths will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays, which will be voted on next week.

Once the new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.

Boyle and Roger Bixenman, superintendent of the Hays Recreation Commission, also presented a review of the 2024 financial reports and attendance for Hays Aquatic Park, Wilson Pool, and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. 

Recreation commission board members and city commissioners agreed to split this year's $50,895 operating loss for the pools. Hays will reimburse the rec center  $25,447.

The sports complex operated at a profit of&nbsp;$39,883.

Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder was absent from the work session.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733502144403.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty talk about a new retail and housing development north of I-70 at Exit 161. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty talk about a new retail and housing development north of I-70 at Exit 161. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays City Commissioner Alaina Cunningham summed up the commission's consensus Thursday as they discussed engineering services for extending utilities for the development of city-owned property just northeast of Interstate 70 Exit 161."It's a long-term plan. We're not going to build this out tomorrow. ... It's looking for what we need in 10 and 20 years," she said."We are designing it to keep it as flexible as we can. ... At some point, we'll have to make some decisions," said Tom Howie, Hays project manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city purchased the 93 acres, known as the Braun property, in 2019 for&nbsp;continued growth and development opportunities. Hays aims for a 1% population increase each year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733249649196.png" alt="The Braun property was purchased by the city of Hays in 2019 for future development. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>The Braun property was purchased by the city of Hays in 2019 for future development. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733500723566.png" alt="Braun property development concept design by RDG Planning and Design.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Braun property development concept design by RDG Planning and Design.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A 2023 feasibility study by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, includes residential mixed housing, commercial business, offices, restaurants, hotels, walking trails, open space and public art.City commissioners will consider awarding a $118,750 low bid from Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, at their Dec. 12 meeting.Hays has already been <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc8ac5a9-8e28-48ec-a7ab-6c3eeab9f02d">awarded $4 million in state funding for retail development</a> as part of the proposed project.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm very focused on retail development in this community, as are many," said Mayor Sandy Jacobs."I think we need to be looking at everything possible we can do to make ourselves attractive to people out there, and I know Grow Hays is working closely with a broker to find (it)."&nbsp;<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DFrRKrMsitQ" title="braun property discuss 1" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>City Manager Toby Dougherty said the project can be likened to when the city first extended utilities north from Vine Street under I-70 to the current thriving retail/business corridor."This is a long-term potential commercial corridor for us," Dougherty said, "not just the city's property but the other properties around it. The first significant step is getting utilities punched into there."&nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil said many people wondered why the city bought the property."This shows that we're serious about development. ... We need retail. It's a priority," he said.Musil also wants to see a new convention center built at that location "to bring events back to town. That helps everything."Hays' general fund is primarily funded by the city's local sales tax.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733503964195.png" alt="Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, 755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, 755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In other business, Jeff Crispin, water resources director, discussed demolishing obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.&nbsp;Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if highly contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000.Crispin said the newly opened area would be planted with grass.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733504190466.png" alt="Multi-use paths to be built connecting the northeast side of Hays. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Multi-use paths to be built connecting the northeast side of Hays. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeff Boyle, parks director, discussed the east multi-use connector paths. These paths will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays, which will be voted on next week.Once the new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.Boyle and Roger Bixenman, superintendent of the Hays Recreation Commission, also presented a review of the 2024 financial reports and attendance for Hays Aquatic Park, Wilson Pool, and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. Recreation commission board members and city commissioners agreed to split this year's $50,895 operating loss for the pools. Hays will reimburse the rec center $25,447.The sports complex operated at a profit of&nbsp;$39,883.Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder was absent from the work session.&nbsp;

🎥 Hays city commissioners discuss uses for land north of I-70

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Keren, the comfort dog, visited Fort Hays State University on Wednesday to comfort and relieve students' stress with her warm, fluffy hugs before finals week.

Keren is a 5-year-old purebred Golden Retriever who started training at 8 weeks old and knows more than 35 commands for her role. In her free time, she loves playing with her ball.

Keren is one of 130 Lutheran Church Charities K-9 comfort dogs who support those in need across 27 states. She has been based at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth since 2021.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/53e6731c-2742-498b-b930-b2a7dc9d386e">SEE RELATED: Keren, the comfort dog, to help FHSU students destress on Monday</a>

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 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostKeren, the comfort dog, visited Fort Hays State University on Wednesday to comfort and relieve students' stress with her warm, fluffy hugs before finals week.Keren is a 5-year-old purebred Golden Retriever who started training at 8 weeks old and knows more than 35 commands for her role. In her free time, she loves playing with her ball.Keren is one of 130 Lutheran Church Charities K-9 comfort dogs who support those in need across 27 states. She has been based at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth since 2021.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/53e6731c-2742-498b-b930-b2a7dc9d386e">SEE RELATED: Keren, the comfort dog, to help FHSU students destress on Monday</a><figure>
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📷  Photo gallery: Keren, the comfort dog, visits FHSU to help students de-stress

Victoria Holiday Home Tours set for Dec. 14-15

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Water supply to rural residences and agricultural operations without rural or public water systems is usually obtained from a private well or surface water supply. In Kansas, more than 73,000 individuals rely on private wells for a water supply. When public and rural water systems that use well water are added to the private well numbers, 34.6% of the Kansas population relies on groundwater for their water supply.

Municipal and rural water systems must maintain water quality standards specified by local, state, or federal requirements; however, owners of private wells are responsible for the water quality of their wells. Permanent contamination of groundwater can decrease property values, affect human and animal health, and involve legal liability.

Testing water from private wells has shown that some wells do not meet the safe drinking water standards used for public water systems. The primary reasons for this reduction in water quality from private wells include:

· contamination sources upslope or near the well;

· failure to construct the well in accordance with current standards;

· inadequate well maintenance and service; and

· lack of protection from activities that risk contamination.

Following the guidelines for recommended separation distance and direction from potential contamination sources when locating a well can help protect private well water quality. When private wells are appropriately sited and constructed, routine maintenance is required to ensure wells continue to be safe. Wells that do not receive regular maintenance are more likely to produce unsafe water.

Detailed information about properly constructing a well in a safe location and maintenance guidelines for existing wells can be found in two recently updated publications from K-State Research and Extension, says Stacie Minson, Extension Watershed Specialist. Private Wells – Safe Location MF3667 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/private-wells-safe-location_MF3667 Private Well Maintenance and Protection MF3666 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/private-well-maintenance-and-protection_MF3666

Ellis County residents with a private well could be eligible for private well testing by scanning the QR Code.

This project has received funding
and support from K-State 105, Kansas State University’s economic growth and
advancement initiative for all 105 counties in Kansas. Learn more at k-state.edu/105.

Information provided by Stacie
Minson, Extension Watershed Specialist, KCARE
<a href="mailto:sedgett@ksu.edu">sedgett@ksu.edu</a>

Stacy Campbell is a Crop
Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton
and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by
e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWater supply to rural residences and agricultural operations without rural or public water systems is usually obtained from a private well or surface water supply. In Kansas, more than 73,000 individuals rely on private wells for a water supply. When public and rural water systems that use well water are added to the private well numbers, 34.6% of the Kansas population relies on groundwater for their water supply.Municipal and rural water systems must maintain water quality standards specified by local, state, or federal requirements; however, owners of private wells are responsible for the water quality of their wells. Permanent contamination of groundwater can decrease property values, affect human and animal health, and involve legal liability.Testing water from private wells has shown that some wells do not meet the safe drinking water standards used for public water systems. The primary reasons for this reduction in water quality from private wells include:· contamination sources upslope or near the well;· failure to construct the well in accordance with current standards;· inadequate well maintenance and service; and· lack of protection from activities that risk contamination.Following the guidelines for recommended separation distance and direction from potential contamination sources when locating a well can help protect private well water quality. When private wells are appropriately sited and constructed, routine maintenance is required to ensure wells continue to be safe. Wells that do not receive regular maintenance are more likely to produce unsafe water.Detailed information about properly constructing a well in a safe location and maintenance guidelines for existing wells can be found in two recently updated publications from K-State Research and Extension, says Stacie Minson, Extension Watershed Specialist. Private Wells – Safe Location MF3667 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/private-wells-safe-location_MF3667 Private Well Maintenance and Protection MF3666 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/private-well-maintenance-and-protection_MF3666Ellis County residents with a private well could be eligible for private well testing by scanning the QR Code.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733507731146.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This project has received funding
and support from K-State 105, Kansas State University’s economic growth and
advancement initiative for all 105 counties in Kansas. Learn more at k-state.edu/105.Information provided by Stacie
Minson, Extension Watershed Specialist, KCARE
<a href="mailto:sedgett@ksu.edu">sedgett@ksu.edu</a>Stacy Campbell is a Crop
Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton
and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by
e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Private wells in Kansas: Safe location and maintenance guidelines

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733507501929.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

TMP-Marian girls vs Manhattan Friday, Dec. 6 – 3:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1772596">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs take on the Manhattan Indians in the consolation semifinals Friday afternoon at Hays Middle School.

Tipoff of the game is set for 3:00 p.m. from Hays Middle School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian girls vs Manhattan Friday, Dec. 6 – 3:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1772596">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs take on the Manhattan Indians in the consolation semifinals Friday afternoon at Hays Middle School.Tipoff of the game is set for 3:00 p.m. from Hays Middle School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP Monarchs Manhattan on day two of Hays City Shootout

The prize this week was courtesy of Popt! Gourmet Popcorn.

Listen to KAYS, 94.3 FM, between 7 a.m. and midnight Mondays through Thursdays for the codeword of the day. Enter the codeword on the Hays Post, and you'll have a chance to win!

The contest runs through&nbsp;through Dec. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733515616255.jpeg" alt="Programmers Dustin Armbruster, left, and Jeff Leiker, right, of Eagle Radio award Ray Thornton of Hays, center, $250 in&nbsp;Popt! Gourmet Popcorn gift cards as the Reindeer Radio week four winner. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Programmers Dustin Armbruster, left, and Jeff Leiker, right, of Eagle Radio award Ray Thornton of Hays, center, $250 in&nbsp;Popt! Gourmet Popcorn gift cards as the Reindeer Radio week four winner. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The prize this week was courtesy of Popt! Gourmet Popcorn.Listen to KAYS, 94.3 FM, between 7 a.m. and midnight Mondays through Thursdays for the codeword of the day. Enter the codeword on the Hays Post, and you'll have a chance to win!The contest runs through&nbsp;through Dec. 20.

Reindeer Radio week 4 winner announced

This letter is to the board of Hays Medical Center regarding their recent response to the staffing issues at the hospital.

While I and others appreciate you speaking out to the public, I believe you are missing the point. The people who post on social media are not interested in your data or accolades; they are, however, interested in whether or not they will have a doctor tomorrow morning when they wake up.

I would take the time to fact-check you if I weren’t spending all of my time looking for a new surgeon, oncologist, pulmonologist and OB-GYN.

If you cared so much about our local health care system, perhaps you would spend more time perfecting your art of negotiation rather than the art of saving face.

A mediator could be a solution to the problem instead of spending more valuable dollars (of which you claim to be short) on a lawsuit just to prove a point.

As you put it, you “do not have the luxury of making decisions based on the wants or needs of a particular individual." I am an INDIVIDUAL, and I have wants and needs as well. I guess the luxury to make a decision based on my needs does not count.

Numerous staff have been let go at the hospital – not just physicians. I remember calling to schedule a PET scan in January/February earlier this year, and the gal who helped me said that she was so overwhelmed by all the work she had because of the layoffs.

When my mother was in the hospital around that same time, we were told that nursing staff had been laid off and the nurses were overwhelmed with the number of patients they had to take care of. 

Patients were being discharged as quickly as possible because they simply did not have the staff. 

Nurses also had the added responsibility for cleaning patient rooms because the cleaning staff were also being laid off. (That is interesting that a hospital of all places would lay off cleaning staff.)

If you actually truly care about our local health care and the patients in the area, you would make the effort to keep your staff.

It is no wonder that you are getting back on your feet financially. You have just recovered salaries totaling millions of dollars from those who no longer work there.

Is that your idea of “creating greater efficiencies and reducing costs”? These would not be challenges if you worked harder to keep the great staff you had! Efficiency would be higher, and you would most likely make more money, not less. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that if you have enough staff to give quality care then you can give MORE of that care and not LESS and in turn will make more money.

Hospital billing has now been outsourced overseas. Be sure to save your proof of payment as I have been told that patients are being billed for services they have already paid for. Scheduling tests in a Manhattan hospital are now being outsourced overseas. Is that coming here?

I see a lot of words on paper but have yet to receive a personal letter from the hospital addressing me as a patient who has now lost all of my doctors.

Instead, I have to read it on Hays Post. How caring is that? I also see more notices of doctors leaving than coming on board. Where is the hospital in the recruitment process? Why are we not hearing more about that? I am not going to feel sorry for the board and all of its hard work when their salaries are evident of a self-service.

Physicians who are truly passionate about their work are those who walk the walk and do not need to talk the talk. The physicians, MY physicians who are no longer here, were exactly that! Maybe the board should take some lessons.

This letter is to the board of Hays Medical Center regarding their recent response to the staffing issues at the hospital.While I and others appreciate you speaking out to the public, I believe you are missing the point. The people who post on social media are not interested in your data or accolades; they are, however, interested in whether or not they will have a doctor tomorrow morning when they wake up.I would take the time to fact-check you if I weren’t spending all of my time looking for a new surgeon, oncologist, pulmonologist and OB-GYN.If you cared so much about our local health care system, perhaps you would spend more time perfecting your art of negotiation rather than the art of saving face.A mediator could be a solution to the problem instead of spending more valuable dollars (of which you claim to be short) on a lawsuit just to prove a point.As you put it, you “do not have the luxury of making decisions based on the wants or needs of a particular individual." I am an INDIVIDUAL, and I have wants and needs as well. I guess the luxury to make a decision based on my needs does not count.Numerous staff have been let go at the hospital – not just physicians. I remember calling to schedule a PET scan in January/February earlier this year, and the gal who helped me said that she was so overwhelmed by all the work she had because of the layoffs.When my mother was in the hospital around that same time, we were told that nursing staff had been laid off and the nurses were overwhelmed with the number of patients they had to take care of. Patients were being discharged as quickly as possible because they simply did not have the staff. Nurses also had the added responsibility for cleaning patient rooms because the cleaning staff were also being laid off. (That is interesting that a hospital of all places would lay off cleaning staff.)If you actually truly care about our local health care and the patients in the area, you would make the effort to keep your staff.It is no wonder that you are getting back on your feet financially. You have just recovered salaries totaling millions of dollars from those who no longer work there.Is that your idea of “creating greater efficiencies and reducing costs”? These would not be challenges if you worked harder to keep the great staff you had! Efficiency would be higher, and you would most likely make more money, not less. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that if you have enough staff to give quality care then you can give MORE of that care and not LESS and in turn will make more money.Hospital billing has now been outsourced overseas. Be sure to save your proof of payment as I have been told that patients are being billed for services they have already paid for. Scheduling tests in a Manhattan hospital are now being outsourced overseas. Is that coming here?I see a lot of words on paper but have yet to receive a personal letter from the hospital addressing me as a patient who has now lost all of my doctors.Instead, I have to read it on Hays Post. How caring is that? I also see more notices of doctors leaving than coming on board. Where is the hospital in the recruitment process? Why are we not hearing more about that? I am not going to feel sorry for the board and all of its hard work when their salaries are evident of a self-service.Physicians who are truly passionate about their work are those who walk the walk and do not need to talk the talk. The physicians, MY physicians who are no longer here, were exactly that! Maybe the board should take some lessons.— Jodie J Wear-Leiker

LETTER: Reader cares about her doctors, not hospital accolades

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about downtown Hays holiday activities.

<div><iframe title="Downtown Hays ready for holiday season" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9ha8w-1760dcd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about downtown Hays holiday activities.

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Hays ready for holiday season

I am writing on behalf of my husband and myself in regard to the recent loss of doctors and medical personnel at Hays Medical Center, specifically, in our case, Dr. Robert Rodriquez.

My husband was diagnosed three years ago with stage 4 metastatic melanoma and is under the care of Dr. Rodriquez, but I consider him to be our doctor.

If you’ve had a family member diagnosed with cancer, you’ll realize it affects the entire family. Dr. Rodriquez understands this and treats my husband and myself like members of his family.

My husband's cancer is not curable. He will require scans, lab work, biopsies and treatments for life. The confident, truthful and speedy diagnosis, as well as efficient treatments, from Dr. Rodriquez has made this difficult phase of our life more bearable.

Dr. Rodriquez is my husband's primary doctor, but he has also seen radiologists, surgeons, dermatologists, and pain management doctors, most of whom have been in Hays, as well as doctors from outside of the Hays area.

In every situation, the appointments were scheduled efficiently and quickly. I must stress that the care my husband has received at HMC has been exemplary, from the first receptionist he sees to every nurse, technician, PA, or doctor we encounter.

My thought is, when you have a staff and facility of this caliber that fights so hard to keep their patients alive, why wouldn't the Board of Directors and CEO not fight to keep their staff in Hays? I find this deeply disturbing.

My husband and I live in western rural Kansas and drive 100 miles to Hays. We do this willingly, but the thought of having to go farther, look for a new support team and doctor, and basically start over is more than daunting.

It adds a level of stress I can't begin to explain. There are also so many other people who travel to Hays from surrounding smaller communities, who also need the level of care that Dr. Rodriquez and the other doctors there can give.

I hope that the Hays Medical Center's Board of Directors and CEO can do what is right for the Hays community, its staff members, and the countless patients who depend&nbsp;on them.

— Cynthia Scheuerman of Scott City

I am writing on behalf of my husband and myself in regard to the recent loss of doctors and medical personnel at Hays Medical Center, specifically, in our case, Dr. Robert Rodriquez.My husband was diagnosed three years ago with stage 4 metastatic melanoma and is under the care of Dr. Rodriquez, but I consider him to be our doctor.If you’ve had a family member diagnosed with cancer, you’ll realize it affects the entire family. Dr. Rodriquez understands this and treats my husband and myself like members of his family.My husband's cancer is not curable. He will require scans, lab work, biopsies and treatments for life. The confident, truthful and speedy diagnosis, as well as efficient treatments, from Dr. Rodriquez has made this difficult phase of our life more bearable.Dr. Rodriquez is my husband's primary doctor, but he has also seen radiologists, surgeons, dermatologists, and pain management doctors, most of whom have been in Hays, as well as doctors from outside of the Hays area.In every situation, the appointments were scheduled efficiently and quickly. I must stress that the care my husband has received at HMC has been exemplary, from the first receptionist he sees to every nurse, technician, PA, or doctor we encounter.My thought is, when you have a staff and facility of this caliber that fights so hard to keep their patients alive, why wouldn't the Board of Directors and CEO not fight to keep their staff in Hays? I find this deeply disturbing.My husband and I live in western rural Kansas and drive 100 miles to Hays. We do this willingly, but the thought of having to go farther, look for a new support team and doctor, and basically start over is more than daunting.It adds a level of stress I can't begin to explain. There are also so many other people who travel to Hays from surrounding smaller communities, who also need the level of care that Dr. Rodriquez and the other doctors there can give.I hope that the Hays Medical Center's Board of Directors and CEO can do what is right for the Hays community, its staff members, and the countless patients who depend&nbsp;on them.— Cynthia Scheuerman of Scott City

LETTER: Cancer patient's wife upset at loss of HaysMed doctor

The opening of the 41st-annual 5-State Photography Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th, will anchor the 2024 Hays Art Council Winter Art Walk&nbsp;from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

"The show is very popular," said Brenda Meder, executive director of the arts council. "It has 150 amazing photographs chosen by the juror from 588 outstanding pieces submitted by photographers in Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado.

"It's going to be an amazing show," she said.

<a href="https://danwhite.com/">Dan White</a>, Kansas City, was a first-time juror for the competition.

The internationally published photographer has won numerous awards, including a Pulitzer Prize, for his work on the Kansas City Star newspaper team covering the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks. White continues his 30-year commercial fine art photographer career and was recently inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame.

Most of the 18 stops on the art walk are in downtown Hays businesses. Student collections are also exhibited at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"There are features from a senior BFA exhibition as well as an MFA exhibition at the university. Community artists are also featured in showcases," Meder said.

Meder says the day can be topped off with Christmas Past at Old Fort Hays that evening.

"It is another way to show the incredible creative and cultural spirit across the community, truly from morning until night," Meder said.

Meder said the host locations share diverse art, including art made by children.

The Cottonwood Extension District Office will highlight children's artwork from local home, group and child care centers.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Make-and-take LEGO printmaking for all ages with FHSU art education students and instructor Brian Hutchinson will be hosted at eyeSMILE Vision and Dental, 1300 Main.

The literary arts and the FHSU English Department will be represented at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main, with host Eileen Veatch, the FHSU poet laureate.&nbsp;

Attending the art walk and viewing the exhibitions is free. Below is a complete list of host locations and featured artists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733331435177.jpeg" alt="Hays Arts Council" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe opening of the 41st-annual 5-State Photography Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th, will anchor the 2024 Hays Art Council Winter Art Walk&nbsp;from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday."The show is very popular," said Brenda Meder, executive director of the arts council. "It has 150 amazing photographs chosen by the juror from 588 outstanding pieces submitted by photographers in Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado."It's going to be an amazing show," she said.<a href="https://danwhite.com/">Dan White</a>, Kansas City, was a first-time juror for the competition.The internationally published photographer has won numerous awards, including a Pulitzer Prize, for his work on the Kansas City Star newspaper team covering the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks. White continues his 30-year commercial fine art photographer career and was recently inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733336124469.jpeg" alt="Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, begins installation of the 150 photos selected for the 41st annual 5-State Photography Exhibition, anchor of Saturday's winter art walk. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, begins installation of the 150 photos selected for the 41st annual 5-State Photography Exhibition, anchor of Saturday's winter art walk. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733336376640.jpeg" alt="Winning photos for the 5-State Photography Exhibition await mounting at the Hays Arts Center. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Winning photos for the 5-State Photography Exhibition await mounting at the Hays Arts Center. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Most of the 18 stops on the art walk are in downtown Hays businesses. Student collections are also exhibited at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;&nbsp;"There are features from a senior BFA exhibition as well as an MFA exhibition at the university. Community artists are also featured in showcases," Meder said.Meder says the day can be topped off with Christmas Past at Old Fort Hays that evening."It is another way to show the incredible creative and cultural spirit across the community, truly from morning until night," Meder said.Meder said the host locations share diverse art, including art made by children.The Cottonwood Extension District Office will highlight children's artwork from local home, group and child care centers.&nbsp; &nbsp;Make-and-take LEGO printmaking for all ages with FHSU art education students and instructor Brian Hutchinson will be hosted at eyeSMILE Vision and Dental, 1300 Main.The literary arts and the FHSU English Department will be represented at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main, with host Eileen Veatch, the FHSU poet laureate.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733331155455.jpeg" alt="FHSU" />
 <figcaption>FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733331649261.jpeg" alt="'Bloom' vases by FHSU ceramics artists will be featured at Regeena's Flowers &amp; Events, 1013 Main. Photo courtesy Linda Ganstrom/FHSU" />
 <figcaption>'Bloom' vases by FHSU ceramics artists will be featured at Regeena's Flowers &amp; Events, 1013 Main. Photo courtesy Linda Ganstrom/FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>Attending the art walk and viewing the exhibitions is free. Below is a complete list of host locations and featured artists.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733339080542.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733339103705.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Annual Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk Saturday

John Lennon once said, “Life is what happens while you are making other plans.” This phrase describes Calena Moore’s personal and academic journey over the past 15 years. 

In 2009, Calena was a student at Wichita State University pursuing her bachelor’s degree. Then life happened; she married, took on a new last name, and created a life with her husband and their first son. She also decided to leave WSU.

Calena’s next move was to follow in the footsteps of her father, a public school teacher with 30 years of experience in the field. Several years after she left WSU, Calena enrolled in a joint Emporia State University/Butler Community College teacher education program. She earned her associate’s degree from Butler in 2019, and then in 2021, she decided to enroll in the teacher education program offered by Fort Hays State University Online.

“I just found the combination of affordability and flexibility at FHSU the best fit,” Calena said. “I needed a program that would allow me to strike a balance between my responsibilities as a parent, a full-time employee, and a college student.”

While she’s made her way through the online teacher education program, Calena has kept her full-time job as a teacher in a Wichita child development center, consistently maintained a courseload of 12 credit hours per semester, and welcomed a second son into her family.

The truly remarkable piece of Calena’s FHSU Online experience has been the off-the-grid field research projects she has found time to wrap around her busy schedule. 

Last May, Calena accepted an invitation from FHSU Teacher Education Professor Dr. Mathew Clay to join him and several students on an expedition to El Dorado State Park in Kansas to participate in Clay’s 360-degree imaging project. 

While tent-camping at El Dorado State Park, the Clay expedition encountered severe weather that forced them to abandon their tents and campsite to seek shelter in their cars.

The purpose of the project is to create a library of 360-degree videos that can be used as virtual field trips for students of all abilities who otherwise would likely not have an opportunity to experience a journey deep into nature due to distance, cost, or other logistical issues.

Undeterred by the conditions she experienced on the first expedition, Calena returned to Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park with Clay and several students in July of 2024 to continue working on the imaging project. While hiking the mountains in Colorado, they kept an eye on wildfires nearby that created smokey conditions and a fire ban.

“The students knew I was in my 30s and not the typical adventurous college student, but they never treated me differently,” Calena said. She went on to say that she felt the need to do this kind of fieldwork because she wanted to dig deeper and get the most out of every possible experience, get out of her comfort zone, and try new things.

There is also a practical side to Calena’s commitment to getting out in the field. 

She knows she can use the imagery she helped capture in her next role as a 5th-grade teacher with Unified School District 259 in Wichita. Her first day on the new job will be December 16, right after FHSU’s Fall Commencement celebration on December 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733320917131.jpeg" alt="Calena Moore. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Calena Moore. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsJohn Lennon once said, “Life is what happens while you are making other plans.” This phrase describes Calena Moore’s personal and academic journey over the past 15 years. In 2009, Calena was a student at Wichita State University pursuing her bachelor’s degree. Then life happened; she married, took on a new last name, and created a life with her husband and their first son. She also decided to leave WSU.Calena’s next move was to follow in the footsteps of her father, a public school teacher with 30 years of experience in the field. Several years after she left WSU, Calena enrolled in a joint Emporia State University/Butler Community College teacher education program. She earned her associate’s degree from Butler in 2019, and then in 2021, she decided to enroll in the teacher education program offered by Fort Hays State University Online.“I just found the combination of affordability and flexibility at FHSU the best fit,” Calena said. “I needed a program that would allow me to strike a balance between my responsibilities as a parent, a full-time employee, and a college student.”While she’s made her way through the online teacher education program, Calena has kept her full-time job as a teacher in a Wichita child development center, consistently maintained a courseload of 12 credit hours per semester, and welcomed a second son into her family.The truly remarkable piece of Calena’s FHSU Online experience has been the off-the-grid field research projects she has found time to wrap around her busy schedule. Last May, Calena accepted an invitation from FHSU Teacher Education Professor Dr. Mathew Clay to join him and several students on an expedition to El Dorado State Park in Kansas to participate in Clay’s 360-degree imaging project. While tent-camping at El Dorado State Park, the Clay expedition encountered severe weather that forced them to abandon their tents and campsite to seek shelter in their cars.The purpose of the project is to create a library of 360-degree videos that can be used as virtual field trips for students of all abilities who otherwise would likely not have an opportunity to experience a journey deep into nature due to distance, cost, or other logistical issues.Undeterred by the conditions she experienced on the first expedition, Calena returned to Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park with Clay and several students in July of 2024 to continue working on the imaging project. While hiking the mountains in Colorado, they kept an eye on wildfires nearby that created smokey conditions and a fire ban.“The students knew I was in my 30s and not the typical adventurous college student, but they never treated me differently,” Calena said. She went on to say that she felt the need to do this kind of fieldwork because she wanted to dig deeper and get the most out of every possible experience, get out of her comfort zone, and try new things.There is also a practical side to Calena’s commitment to getting out in the field. She knows she can use the imagery she helped capture in her next role as a 5th-grade teacher with Unified School District 259 in Wichita. Her first day on the new job will be December 16, right after FHSU’s Fall Commencement celebration on December 13.

December FHSU Online graduate seized every opportunity to explore, learn

As a semi-retired physician in WaKeeney, Kansas, I feel compelled to address a critical situation that is currently impacting our community's health and well-being.

I have practiced medicine for over 40 years in the area and have become concerned by the current trends in health care access for the patients of this community.

Hays Medical Center serves as our regional medical facility in western Kansas, and its success is vital for us. Simply put, our health depends on it.

Recently, our community faced a significant setback with the resignation of the surgeon who has provided care for us for the past eight years. This departure is part of a troubling trend as Hays Medical Center has lost multiple physicians across various specialties in the past six months.

The implications of these losses are profound given the growing physician shortage in our region.

One particular concern involves Dr. Grove, the surgeon who has been instrumental in serving our hospital and community.

Dr. Grove traveled to our hospital twice monthly to perform essential procedures and consult on the health care of patients in WaKeeney and surrounding counties. If Dr. Grove did not come directly to our hospital, many of our patients, because of poor health or travel issues, would not have had access to these surgical services.

Life-saving cancer screening tests, cancerous skin lesion removals and many other consultations would have been delayed or, worse yet, not done at all.

Dr. Grove also allowed the local physicians and providers to consult him by phone anytime, day or night. Patients in WaKeeney and the surrounding area were well cared for (from a surgical standpoint) because of Dr. Groves’ commitment to our community.

Due to restrictive covenants enforced by Hays Medical Center, Dr. Grove is now unable to continue his practice in WaKeeney and much of western Kansas.

This, unfortunately, comes at a time when we desperately need access to surgical care. Dr. Grove does not want to leave western Kansas.

Hays Medical Center is enforcing its contract with Dr. Grove to prohibit him from the practice of surgery in WaKeeney and western Kansas. This might be understandable if we had multiple surgeons requesting privileges at our hospital.

That, however, is just the opposite of what we find in western Kansas. There is a significant surgeon shortage. Pushing these restrictive policies will potentially harm our community and may exacerbate the existing healthcare crisis.

I urge Hays Medical Center to reconsider enforcing its restrictive covenants and allow Dr. Grove (and other physicians who have been employed by HMC) to practice in WaKeeney and throughout western Kansas.

Permitting Dr. Grove to practice in western Kansas will help secure surgical services in our area and ultimately strengthen Hays Medical Center. We want and we need Hays Medical Center to be successful and strong.

Granting this flexibility is not merely a matter of convenience. It is a matter of providing essential health care services to our patients and safeguarding the health of our community.

Everything Hays Medical Center has done regarding the enforcement of the many restricted covenants are undoubtedly legal.

However, is doing so in the best interests of the many patients they serve? Finding high-quality physicians to practice medicine IN western Kansas is difficult at best. Can we please find a way to help the Doctors who want to stay? Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue.

Gordon Lang, MD WaKeeney Medical Group WaKeeney

As a semi-retired physician in WaKeeney, Kansas, I feel compelled to address a critical situation that is currently impacting our community's health and well-being.I have practiced medicine for over 40 years in the area and have become concerned by the current trends in health care access for the patients of this community.Hays Medical Center serves as our regional medical facility in western Kansas, and its success is vital for us. Simply put, our health depends on it.Recently, our community faced a significant setback with the resignation of the surgeon who has provided care for us for the past eight years. This departure is part of a troubling trend as Hays Medical Center has lost multiple physicians across various specialties in the past six months.The implications of these losses are profound given the growing physician shortage in our region.One particular concern involves Dr. Grove, the surgeon who has been instrumental in serving our hospital and community.Dr. Grove traveled to our hospital twice monthly to perform essential procedures and consult on the health care of patients in WaKeeney and surrounding counties. If Dr. Grove did not come directly to our hospital, many of our patients, because of poor health or travel issues, would not have had access to these surgical services.Life-saving cancer screening tests, cancerous skin lesion removals and many other consultations would have been delayed or, worse yet, not done at all.Dr. Grove also allowed the local physicians and providers to consult him by phone anytime, day or night. Patients in WaKeeney and the surrounding area were well cared for (from a surgical standpoint) because of Dr. Groves’ commitment to our community.Due to restrictive covenants enforced by Hays Medical Center, Dr. Grove is now unable to continue his practice in WaKeeney and much of western Kansas.This, unfortunately, comes at a time when we desperately need access to surgical care. Dr. Grove does not want to leave western Kansas.Hays Medical Center is enforcing its contract with Dr. Grove to prohibit him from the practice of surgery in WaKeeney and western Kansas. This might be understandable if we had multiple surgeons requesting privileges at our hospital.That, however, is just the opposite of what we find in western Kansas. There is a significant surgeon shortage. Pushing these restrictive policies will potentially harm our community and may exacerbate the existing healthcare crisis.I urge Hays Medical Center to reconsider enforcing its restrictive covenants and allow Dr. Grove (and other physicians who have been employed by HMC) to practice in WaKeeney and throughout western Kansas.Permitting Dr. Grove to practice in western Kansas will help secure surgical services in our area and ultimately strengthen Hays Medical Center. We want and we need Hays Medical Center to be successful and strong.Granting this flexibility is not merely a matter of convenience. It is a matter of providing essential health care services to our patients and safeguarding the health of our community.Everything Hays Medical Center has done regarding the enforcement of the many restricted covenants are undoubtedly legal.However, is doing so in the best interests of the many patients they serve? Finding high-quality physicians to practice medicine IN western Kansas is difficult at best. Can we please find a way to help the Doctors who want to stay? Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue.Gordon Lang, MD WaKeeney Medical Group WaKeeney

LETTER: WaKeeney doctor urges HaysMed to lift noncompete

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) has again established itself at the forefront of entrepreneurial education, showcasing the remarkable potential of its students. In the second annual entrepreneurial competition against the University of Connecticut, FHSU celebrated its second victory. This event highlighted the exceptional talent and commitment of FHSU’s students. It also underscored the invaluable support of alumnus Peter Werth, who envisioned this competition to foster entrepreneurial spirit among students.

Peter Werth, a distinguished alumnus and entrepreneur advocate, generously founded this competition as a platform for aspiring student entrepreneurs—his guiding principle— “Do good. Make a difference. Change the world”—reflects his unwavering commitment to empowering young innovators. Werth believes in investing in “the jockey, not the horse,” emphasizing students' potential as the driving force behind future enterprises. His vision aligns seamlessly with the achievements of the FHSU students who participated this year, showcasing their capacity for innovation and success.

Coached by Dr. Keith Bremer, the Director of the Graduate School, this year’s team was a powerhouse of talent and diverse backgrounds. Students Diana Angarita, Noah Erichsen, Dustin Rajewski, Chelsie Rose, and Bryce Steffan brought unique experiences and insights that contributed to the team’s collaborative spirit and success. Their project, “Food to Fertilizer” (F2F), centered around a solar composter—a blend of sustainability and innovation.

Dr. Bremer curated his team thoughtfully, selecting Noah and Chelsie as the foundational members based on their intelligence and motivation. Noah invited Dustin, while Chelsie welcomed Diana to join the team. Their cohesion deepened when Bryce, a participant from last year’s competition, sought to return. Their diverse academic backgrounds in finance, biology, chemistry education, environmental geosciences, history, and organizational leadership, as well as their shared entrepreneurial ambition, allowed them to create a well-rounded team.

Success, however, came with its challenges. True to the nature of entrepreneurship, the team encountered obstacles, including the need to redefine their target market based on feedback. Instead of being deterred, they embraced these challenges, meeting regularly and leveraging each member’s expertise to ensure their project’s viability.

Chelsie reflected on the experience, stating that the competition allowed her to apply practical skills acquired from previous entrepreneurial experiences, deepening her understanding of her studies in accounting and finance. While at FHSU, she has participated in multiple entrepreneurship challenges, including the EPIC Challenge, Faulkner Challenge, and the Werth Entrepreneurship Challenge.

Bryce Steffan, a Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) student, appreciated how his parents’ experience in banking and business prepared him for this challenge. His participation in the competition fostered a deeper sense of connection to his teammates and the university and demonstrated the power of applied learning.

For Diana Angarita, an international student from Venezuela, this opportunity was more than just about winning; it was about building invaluable networks and gaining practical experience that transcended borders. Diana emphasized that the teamwork and collective effort in bringing the solar composter project to fruition taught her the power of collaboration—the cornerstone of all successful enterprises.

Dustin Rajewski and Noah Erichsen shared similar reflections on the enriching dynamics of teamwork. Each learned that by embracing their unique strengths—Dustin’s expertise in chemistry and Noah’s focus on environmental geoscience—they could significantly enhance their project, leading to innovations they had not initially envisioned.

As the competition drew near, the FHSU team displayed tenacity that would eventually lead to their victory. Their presentation showcased enthusiasm, meticulous preparation, and cohesive teamwork, which captured the judges' attention. David Clingan, director of recruitment and retention for Grow Hays and a judge for the competition, commended the FHSU team for their passion and preparedness.

Chelsie, inspired by her grandmother, who was an accountant, is pursuing a double major in accounting and finance, aspiring to a career in financial planning, and looks forward to applying her skills to help clients navigate their financial futures. Noah plans to become a park ranger and natural resource specialist. Reflecting on his time at FHSU, he feels immense gratitude for the academic and social opportunities that have primed him for this upcoming chapter in his life.

Diana shared that her connections with her teammates have provided a sense of belonging and camaraderie that have enriched her academic experience at FHSU. She hopes her journey will inspire other students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their passions and dreams. Dustin, a chemistry education major, aspires to significantly impact his future students like his inspiring teachers and professors.

As FHSU continues to cultivate an environment rich in academic and entrepreneurial endeavors, the successes of Diana, Chelsie, Noah, Dustin, and Bryce stand as a testament to the university’s commitment to empowering its students. In a world that increasingly values innovation and sustainable solutions, the passion demonstrated by these young entrepreneurs highlights the critical nexus between education and practical application.

In the coming years, as FHSU students strive to forge their paths in a competitive landscape, the spirit of the Werth Entrepreneurship Challenge will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Under our faculty’s visionary guidance, FHSU remains a fertile ground for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to make their mark.

The Werth Challenge and other FHSU applied learning opportunities showcase that FHSU is not just a place of academic learning but a launchpad for the next wave of innovators and thoughtful leaders capable of shaping the future. As the university celebrates the accomplishments of its students, it also embraces its broader goal of nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship where dreams are not only inspired but turned into reality.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentFort Hays State University (FHSU) has again established itself at the forefront of entrepreneurial education, showcasing the remarkable potential of its students. In the second annual entrepreneurial competition against the University of Connecticut, FHSU celebrated its second victory. This event highlighted the exceptional talent and commitment of FHSU’s students. It also underscored the invaluable support of alumnus Peter Werth, who envisioned this competition to foster entrepreneurial spirit among students.Peter Werth, a distinguished alumnus and entrepreneur advocate, generously founded this competition as a platform for aspiring student entrepreneurs—his guiding principle— “Do good. Make a difference. Change the world”—reflects his unwavering commitment to empowering young innovators. Werth believes in investing in “the jockey, not the horse,” emphasizing students' potential as the driving force behind future enterprises. His vision aligns seamlessly with the achievements of the FHSU students who participated this year, showcasing their capacity for innovation and success.Coached by Dr. Keith Bremer, the Director of the Graduate School, this year’s team was a powerhouse of talent and diverse backgrounds. Students Diana Angarita, Noah Erichsen, Dustin Rajewski, Chelsie Rose, and Bryce Steffan brought unique experiences and insights that contributed to the team’s collaborative spirit and success. Their project, “Food to Fertilizer” (F2F), centered around a solar composter—a blend of sustainability and innovation.Dr. Bremer curated his team thoughtfully, selecting Noah and Chelsie as the foundational members based on their intelligence and motivation. Noah invited Dustin, while Chelsie welcomed Diana to join the team. Their cohesion deepened when Bryce, a participant from last year’s competition, sought to return. Their diverse academic backgrounds in finance, biology, chemistry education, environmental geosciences, history, and organizational leadership, as well as their shared entrepreneurial ambition, allowed them to create a well-rounded team.Success, however, came with its challenges. True to the nature of entrepreneurship, the team encountered obstacles, including the need to redefine their target market based on feedback. Instead of being deterred, they embraced these challenges, meeting regularly and leveraging each member’s expertise to ensure their project’s viability.Chelsie reflected on the experience, stating that the competition allowed her to apply practical skills acquired from previous entrepreneurial experiences, deepening her understanding of her studies in accounting and finance. While at FHSU, she has participated in multiple entrepreneurship challenges, including the EPIC Challenge, Faulkner Challenge, and the Werth Entrepreneurship Challenge.Bryce Steffan, a Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) student, appreciated how his parents’ experience in banking and business prepared him for this challenge. His participation in the competition fostered a deeper sense of connection to his teammates and the university and demonstrated the power of applied learning.For Diana Angarita, an international student from Venezuela, this opportunity was more than just about winning; it was about building invaluable networks and gaining practical experience that transcended borders. Diana emphasized that the teamwork and collective effort in bringing the solar composter project to fruition taught her the power of collaboration—the cornerstone of all successful enterprises.Dustin Rajewski and Noah Erichsen shared similar reflections on the enriching dynamics of teamwork. Each learned that by embracing their unique strengths—Dustin’s expertise in chemistry and Noah’s focus on environmental geoscience—they could significantly enhance their project, leading to innovations they had not initially envisioned.As the competition drew near, the FHSU team displayed tenacity that would eventually lead to their victory. Their presentation showcased enthusiasm, meticulous preparation, and cohesive teamwork, which captured the judges' attention. David Clingan, director of recruitment and retention for Grow Hays and a judge for the competition, commended the FHSU team for their passion and preparedness.Chelsie, inspired by her grandmother, who was an accountant, is pursuing a double major in accounting and finance, aspiring to a career in financial planning, and looks forward to applying her skills to help clients navigate their financial futures. Noah plans to become a park ranger and natural resource specialist. Reflecting on his time at FHSU, he feels immense gratitude for the academic and social opportunities that have primed him for this upcoming chapter in his life.Diana shared that her connections with her teammates have provided a sense of belonging and camaraderie that have enriched her academic experience at FHSU. She hopes her journey will inspire other students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their passions and dreams. Dustin, a chemistry education major, aspires to significantly impact his future students like his inspiring teachers and professors.As FHSU continues to cultivate an environment rich in academic and entrepreneurial endeavors, the successes of Diana, Chelsie, Noah, Dustin, and Bryce stand as a testament to the university’s commitment to empowering its students. In a world that increasingly values innovation and sustainable solutions, the passion demonstrated by these young entrepreneurs highlights the critical nexus between education and practical application.In the coming years, as FHSU students strive to forge their paths in a competitive landscape, the spirit of the Werth Entrepreneurship Challenge will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Under our faculty’s visionary guidance, FHSU remains a fertile ground for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to make their mark.The Werth Challenge and other FHSU applied learning opportunities showcase that FHSU is not just a place of academic learning but a launchpad for the next wave of innovators and thoughtful leaders capable of shaping the future. As the university celebrates the accomplishments of its students, it also embraces its broader goal of nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship where dreams are not only inspired but turned into reality.

Heart of a Tiger: Spotlighting our entrepreneurial students, and the Peter Werth Challenge

The HaysMed Board of Directors issued the following statement on social media today.

We as the Board of Directors of Hays Medical Center are aware of the recent social media posts and want to assure the community of our continued strength as a key employer in the community and our ongoing commitment to providing the best quality of care in rural America.

We have been determined to not engage in a battle over social media.  Unfortunately, we have come to realize it is time to address some of the comments that are being circulated.

While it is always our goal to retain the providers who work at HaysMed, some level of turnover is normal and to be expected.  Recruiting and retaining qualified physicians is always a challenge in Kansas, but this issue is particularly amplified in rural parts of the state.

In 2024, HaysMed had a total of 10 physicians leave the community, but during the same timeframe, contracted with 20 new physicians who joined the medical staff.

According to data provided by the Kansas Hospital Association, the most recent average annual turnover rate for physicians in Kansas is 11% (See <a href="http://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/DataPublic/d139877.aspx?type=view&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1mrKlwxqjl52w89cfL_a4X36N7tgkKmP0nQl5IG-EHAglrMcIw5rl_NtI_aem_XnBEn7TXuWZm1G5qZwCQRw" target="_blank">http://www.kha-net.org/DataPro.../DataPublic/d139877.aspx...</a>). HaysMed’s turnover rate in 2024 is 10.99%, so the amount of physician turnover HaysMed has experienced is very much in keeping with what other hospitals in the state have experienced.

More importantly, recent physician departures have not impacted HaysMed’s ability to serve the community’s needs.

In fact, over the course of this past year, we have seen a significant increase in patient visits, surgeries, and ancillary services. HaysMed continues to be the region’s leading provider in general surgery, orthopedic surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, hematology/oncology, and ear/nose/throat.

HaysMed also continues to provide the region’s only urology, nephrology, invasive cardiology, non-invasive cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, electrophysiology, spine surgery, and pulmonology services.

Recently, concern has been expressed in social media posts regarding the financial losses HaysMed has experienced.  HaysMed is not alone in its struggles in dealing with the rising cost of labor, supplies, and inflation, while receiving less in reimbursement from insurance companies and governmental programs.

The HaysMed Board of Directors issued the following statement on social media today.We as the Board of Directors of Hays Medical Center are aware of the recent social media posts and want to assure the community of our continued strength as a key employer in the community and our ongoing commitment to providing the best quality of care in rural America.We have been determined to not engage in a battle over social media. Unfortunately, we have come to realize it is time to address some of the comments that are being circulated.While it is always our goal to retain the providers who work at HaysMed, some level of turnover is normal and to be expected. Recruiting and retaining qualified physicians is always a challenge in Kansas, but this issue is particularly amplified in rural parts of the state.In 2024, HaysMed had a total of 10 physicians leave the community, but during the same timeframe, contracted with 20 new physicians who joined the medical staff.According to data provided by the Kansas Hospital Association, the most recent average annual turnover rate for physicians in Kansas is 11% (See <a href="http://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/DataPublic/d139877.aspx?type=view&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1mrKlwxqjl52w89cfL_a4X36N7tgkKmP0nQl5IG-EHAglrMcIw5rl_NtI_aem_XnBEn7TXuWZm1G5qZwCQRw" target="_blank">http://www.kha-net.org/DataPro.../DataPublic/d139877.aspx...</a>). HaysMed’s turnover rate in 2024 is 10.99%, so the amount of physician turnover HaysMed has experienced is very much in keeping with what other hospitals in the state have experienced.More importantly, recent physician departures have not impacted HaysMed’s ability to serve the community’s needs.In fact, over the course of this past year, we have seen a significant increase in patient visits, surgeries, and ancillary services. HaysMed continues to be the region’s leading provider in general surgery, orthopedic surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, hematology/oncology, and ear/nose/throat.HaysMed also continues to provide the region’s only urology, nephrology, invasive cardiology, non-invasive cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, electrophysiology, spine surgery, and pulmonology services.Recently, concern has been expressed in social media posts regarding the financial losses HaysMed has experienced. HaysMed is not alone in its struggles in dealing with the rising cost of labor, supplies, and inflation, while receiving less in reimbursement from insurance companies and governmental programs.Many not-for-profit hospitals like HaysMed face these same challenges. According to the latest analysis from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, more than 700 rural U.S. hospitals are at risk of closure due to financial problems.Eighty-four (84) of those hospitals are located in the state of Kansas (and represent 86% of Kansas rural hospitals).Despite these economic challenges, HaysMed’s Associates (including physicians and other HaysMed personnel) and members of management have worked diligently for the past 2 years to make changes aimed at creating greater efficiencies and reducing costs.These efforts have had a significant positive impact on HaysMed’s financial performance. While we prefer to not use our savings to fund financial operating losses, HaysMed has invested its funds wisely over the years and has the funds available to cover such losses.We have also developed a plan to return to a positive net operating margin. The community should rest assured that the outlook for HaysMed is bright, and we are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure HaysMed continues to play a key role in this community as an employer and health care provider for many years to come.In carrying out this mission, we as the Board of Directors have to make tough decisions. These decisions may seem unfair when viewed in isolation as to a particular individual or HaysMed Associate, but we do not have the luxury of making decisions based on the wants or needs of a particular individual.We must make our decisions based on what is best for HaysMed and our patients. This includes our approach to physician contracting. Our goal is to recruit the most skilled physicians to work at HaysMed.We want the best possible care for our patients, and as a result, HaysMed invests considerable resources into the hiring and retention of its physicians.Like most hospitals, HaysMed requires noncompete agreements. We are not unique in that regard. Moreover, this is not a new practice.This has been our practice since the early 1990s, which has served HaysMed and our patients well by enabling HaysMed to provide assurances to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide needed care.Despite the negative social media posts, there is much to celebrate at HayMed. This year, under the leadership of CEO Eddie Herrman, HaysMed and its Associates accomplished several key milestones. HaysMed achieved the prestigious five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) as part of CMS’ Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating.The data is available on the Medicare site at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdata.cms.gov%2Fprovider-data%2Ftopics%2Fhospitals%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3P7XQEfZ-J0XspRmrHZoh5NRYCopNz-c4isydegISnIhHKIQxVWKrR4nE_aem_4o3qHAiCbKZGeYnj9c_bqA&amp;h=AT0HBl0dM_oy6RIVkUUTPV4gLEpbODBuTFAd8RkBrOuzaYNQi2aDD1uvUtDLAeUkGv52qpZ2w7lrQr02747sj1U83CMwkErwVtujb4f-G_DOzqp4T2vnfwSVfoGzAZ6Rrd657XU8Fw&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3RoKeP-2Ld0q4i2L_Svu9Hxmny8Mmr4OA9h3FnVQN4iIpjQdvwaifvt25omjQRUfFVxBLc9PtCdXWBNtlIt0y0AEQui1619OulYr5-ku6z0-4PAjdQG1VJrlqP35X52REUlUC2J7Z4Zy-lpfB7ATrfbhTxKhy7qxMTQGptBv-kLHg1rf13w9kgZ-jXl3m06AzWe5wmfehUF7qApM8LOrdIyr4" target="_blank">https://data.cms.gov/provider-data/topics/hospitals</a>. CMS selected 46 of the hospital quality measures CMS publicly reports on at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FMedicare.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0ULGAbz3jRbQJFAggMRoHkZZAp_TfCz25HQdVjb8n4BYAajl8m0jYwgWU_aem_N9WkHY4xjd_l6LGYPbmIbw&amp;h=AT39NBarbC6REsSIkSDg4MS-_FAhlVRFoBLxzWxx3mSyfuFVmYWE5zpDDv4hkqmfKQiR9Y_L2SEzqoY0n_bawu2xmIXLaipdhBJ40CMrSgtdagl_Ta_91djN_HzJplHJwPfkeb30MA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3RoKeP-2Ld0q4i2L_Svu9Hxmny8Mmr4OA9h3FnVQN4iIpjQdvwaifvt25omjQRUfFVxBLc9PtCdXWBNtlIt0y0AEQui1619OulYr5-ku6z0-4PAjdQG1VJrlqP35X52REUlUC2J7Z4Zy-lpfB7ATrfbhTxKhy7qxMTQGptBv-kLHg1rf13w9kgZ-jXl3m06AzWe5wmfehUF7qApM8LOrdIyr4" target="_blank">Medicare.gov</a> and divided them into 5 groups—mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience and timely and effective care.HaysMed was 1 of 7 hospitals in the state of Kansas to receive the top five-star rating, and was the only hospital west of Pratt to receive the rating.HaysMed also received national recognition as a Top 100 Rural &amp; Community Hospital from the Chartis Center for Rural Health.HaysMed continued its mission of innovation when it became the first facility in Kansas to perform the groundbreaking Detour surgical procedure for peripheral artery disease.Additionally, the hospital is completing a hybrid operating room which will be used to provide less invasive heart procedure options for qualifying patients in the region.The board is working closely with HaysMed administration to ensure HaysMed remains in service to the Hays community and broader region for generations to come.Our commitment is unwavering in these difficult times to continue providing complex care for the region.As community members, business owners and patients ourselves, we are deeply committed to the well-being of our community, region, our Associates and our patients.Every decision we make at HaysMed reflects this dedication.— Hays Medical Center Board Jana Horsfall, Chair, Melissa Romme, Vice Chair, D. G. Bickle, Secretary, Dan Schippers, Treasurer, Edward Herrman, President &amp; CEO, Wayne Kieffer, Dr. Tom McDonald , Alan Moore, Chris Wente, Dr. Kayla Gray- Chief of Staff , and Dr. Ernesto Lopez – Past Chief of Staff

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