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

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723492588195.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

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

The Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association, KIOGA, holds its annual convention and Expo August 18-20 at the Hyatt Regency and Century Two in downtown Wichita. The yearly get-together features a trade show, industry seminars and all manner of social gatherings, including golf, sporting clays, and bingo. 

Find out more online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kioga.org/" target="_blank">www.kioga.org</a>.

After a week of slow gains, crude prices spiked on Monday. 

The NYMEX settlement price for WTI (Sep'24) on Friday, Aug. 9 was $76.84 per barrel, up $3.32 on the week. Prices were four percent higher Monday afternoon at $79.71 per barrel, topping $79 for the first time since mid July.

U.S. crude production increased to 13,415,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the week through August 2. That's the highest weekly production average ever reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Four-week average production is up more than eight percent from last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent.

Crude production through May of this year averaged 13.18 million bpd nationwide. 

The latest numbers from the Energy Information Administration show Kansas pumping 75,480 bpd in May, placing the Sunflower State 12th in the state rankings.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up three oil rigs but down one seeking natural gas for a total of 588 rigs. The count in Texas was up two. New Mexico was down one rig. Colorado was up one and Wyoming was up two rigs from a week ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged east of Wichita at 12 rigs, and up one at 18 rigs in western Kansas. The statewide tally is down 29% from a year ago. Drilling was underway or about to start on a lease in Stafford County. Operators reached total depth on the second Ellis County well in as many weeks.

Operators completed 46 wells across Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 in eastern Kansas and 33 west of Wichita, including one in Butler County, one in Ellis County and two in Russell County. That's 791 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 1,063 a year ago at this time.

Kansas regulators okayed 13 permits for drilling at new locations statewide in the week through August 8, with six in western Kansas. That's 604 new drilling locations so far this year, compared to 762 by this time last year.

The U.S. imported more crude oil than we exported last week by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd). 

Petroleum product exports outpaced imports by 4.7 million bpd. U.S. crude imports averaged 6.2 million bpd, dropping 729,000 daily barrels from a week ago. Four week average imports are up 49,000 daily barrels to just under 6.8 million. Domestic exports are down 1.3 million barrels from a week ago at 3.6 million bpd. The four-week average is up 165,000 bpd from a year ago.

Commercial crude oil inventories dropped by 3.7 million barrels (bbl) from the previous week to just over 429 million bbl. This is the sixth consecutive weekly decline in crude stockpiles, which are down more than 31 million bbl since June. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

The weekly government dip-stick at the Strategic Petroleum Reserve shows 375.8 million bbl of crude. That's 28 million bbl in refills in the last year and 700,000 bbl in the last week.&nbsp;

 At recent prices, the government is, by selling high and buying low, reaping a net profit of more than $20 per barrel. That's more than $14 million for the week, and more than $200 million since April.

The Association of American Railroads reports an eight percent spike in U.S. oil-by-rail shipments in July, despite a two percent drop in total carload originations. AAR reports 12 of the 20 commodity categories they track saw carload gains compared with last year. That includes petroleum and petroleum products, which rose by more than 4,000 carloads for an increase of eight-and-a-half percent over a year ago. Weekly U.S. oil-by-rail traffic is up more than 17% from a year ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaThe Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association, KIOGA, holds its annual convention and Expo August 18-20 at the Hyatt Regency and Century Two in downtown Wichita. The yearly get-together features a trade show, industry seminars and all manner of social gatherings, including golf, sporting clays, and bingo. Find out more online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kioga.org/" target="_blank">www.kioga.org</a>.After a week of slow gains, crude prices spiked on Monday. The NYMEX settlement price for WTI (Sep'24) on Friday, Aug. 9 was $76.84 per barrel, up $3.32 on the week. Prices were four percent higher Monday afternoon at $79.71 per barrel, topping $79 for the first time since mid July.U.S. crude production increased to 13,415,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the week through August 2. That's the highest weekly production average ever reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Four-week average production is up more than eight percent from last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent.Crude production through May of this year averaged 13.18 million bpd nationwide. The latest numbers from the Energy Information Administration show Kansas pumping 75,480 bpd in May, placing the Sunflower State 12th in the state rankings.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up three oil rigs but down one seeking natural gas for a total of 588 rigs. The count in Texas was up two. New Mexico was down one rig. Colorado was up one and Wyoming was up two rigs from a week ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged east of Wichita at 12 rigs, and up one at 18 rigs in western Kansas. The statewide tally is down 29% from a year ago. Drilling was underway or about to start on a lease in Stafford County. Operators reached total depth on the second Ellis County well in as many weeks.Operators completed 46 wells across Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 in eastern Kansas and 33 west of Wichita, including one in Butler County, one in Ellis County and two in Russell County. That's 791 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 1,063 a year ago at this time.Kansas regulators okayed 13 permits for drilling at new locations statewide in the week through August 8, with six in western Kansas. That's 604 new drilling locations so far this year, compared to 762 by this time last year.The U.S. imported more crude oil than we exported last week by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd). Petroleum product exports outpaced imports by 4.7 million bpd. U.S. crude imports averaged 6.2 million bpd, dropping 729,000 daily barrels from a week ago. Four week average imports are up 49,000 daily barrels to just under 6.8 million. Domestic exports are down 1.3 million barrels from a week ago at 3.6 million bpd. The four-week average is up 165,000 bpd from a year ago.Commercial crude oil inventories dropped by 3.7 million barrels (bbl) from the previous week to just over 429 million bbl. This is the sixth consecutive weekly decline in crude stockpiles, which are down more than 31 million bbl since June. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year.The weekly government dip-stick at the Strategic Petroleum Reserve shows 375.8 million bbl of crude. That's 28 million bbl in refills in the last year and 700,000 bbl in the last week.&nbsp; At recent prices, the government is, by selling high and buying low, reaping a net profit of more than $20 per barrel. That's more than $14 million for the week, and more than $200 million since April.The Association of American Railroads reports an eight percent spike in U.S. oil-by-rail shipments in July, despite a two percent drop in total carload originations. AAR reports 12 of the 20 commodity categories they track saw carload gains compared with last year. That includes petroleum and petroleum products, which rose by more than 4,000 carloads for an increase of eight-and-a-half percent over a year ago. Weekly U.S. oil-by-rail traffic is up more than 17% from a year ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Stockpiles drop, production jumps, prices skyrocket

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 276&nbsp; incidents Aug. 4-10, 2024, according to the activity report.

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Ellis County Sheriff activity log, Aug. 4-10, 2024

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Ellis County Jail bookings, Aug. 5-12, 2024

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The HaysMed CEO and director of nursing responded to criticisms from current and former employees on Thursday, explaining the hospital has restructured to deal with financial challenges.

HaysMed had an annual loss of $5.6 million as of June 2023, according to a report on the American Hospital Directory. CEO Edward Herrman would not release any further information about the financial status of the hospital except to say the hospital is facing financial challenges.

The hospital said it does not distribute an annual report.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0396c2ea-565d-482c-92f7-12bbb547acf7">SEE RELATED STORY: Letter: Local doctor shares concern on HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b9e56ce-abb6-46b3-b2de-6eb1ce011e7a">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed issues statement on financial losses</a>

Herrman said in an interview on Thursday the hospital has used funds from investments and cash reserves to deal with some of the hospital's financial issues over the last 18 months.

Hospital employees told the Hays Post that staff had been cut from departments.&nbsp;

Herrman said the hospital did not have staff reductions. He said the resources were reorganized, but staff members were given the opportunity to apply for other vacancies within the hospital.

Employees expressed concerns about hours being cut.

The hospital said in an email Friday, "When we looked at departmental efficiencies, some areas did reduce hours. All impacted associates were offered the opportunity to offset those hours in other areas. 

"Staff received orientation and training if transitioning to a new or unfamiliar area, which is the customary practice for new employees to our organization. We have many staff that are cross trained for different departments in the hospital. This is especially common with nursing departments."

Hospital departments and clinics were also asked to see more patients in less time, cutting the time allotted for clinic visits from 30 minutes to 15 minutes. Staff members expressed concerns about how the changes were affecting patient care.

"We're always trying to make sure that we are being as efficient as possible and maximizing access for patients," Herrman said, "the ability to get patients in [to be seen] in a timely fashion in the clinics or in for anything like X-rays, MRI or CT."

Later in the interview, he added, "Quality care of the patients is the No. 1 thing that we do. Do we look for efficiencies so we can see as many patients as possible so we can increase access for people in western Kansas? You bet. We absolutely do. 

"But because every patient has a different need, are there times they can see a patient quicker, and when you see a new patient, they are scheduled to be in there longer? We vary based on the types of patients they are caring for."

Staff members interviewed by Hays Post said the extra time needed to account for patients who needed longer appointments was not figured into the schedule, which resulted in long wait times for some patients.

Herrman said the hospital looks at national standards to help establish guidelines for the average number of visits a department or clinic should be able to see. He said the hospital tries to stay at the median of those national averages.

HaysMed partners with clinics in other communities in western Kansas. Herrman said that although none of those partnerships have been dissolved, HaysMed staff has been busy enough in Hays that they have had to cut back on clinic time outside of the local hospital.

Some hospital staff members expressed concerns about the use of traveling nurses and locum tenens, which are temporary medical staff.

Terry Siek, director of nursing and vice president of patient care, said agency nurses are not used in place of native staff members but are used when the hospital has an opening that is not being filled.

He said about 10 percent of HaysMed's nursing workforce are agency nurses.

According to HaysMed, the current national average of registered nurse turnover in hospitals is 15%. HaysMed’s registered nurse turnover rate is 10.6%, which places HaysMed in the top 10% of all hospitals nationwide with low turnover.

Hays Post asked for HaysMed's patient-to-nurse ratios. Siek said the ratios are based on national standards and the patient's acuity.&nbsp;

"We strive to hit those national standards," he said. "At times, very infrequently, we may not hit that national standard."

Herrman said the hospital has been working to meet all quality metrics on Blue Cross Blue Shield scorecards to maximize its reimbursement.

He said the hospital has also sought to decrease the cost of goods used in the hospital by millions of dollars.

Some staff members have complained about pay on social media and in interviews with the Hays Post.

The hospital's<a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/480972107/202343179349308014/full">&nbsp;current and former leadership earned more than $2 million in 2022, according to its 990 forms filed with the IRS.</a>&nbsp;Herrman earned $726,311 in 2022, according to the 990 form.

The Hays Post asked if the hospital leadership had received any pay raises or bonuses since the pandemic, considering the hospital's recent financial struggles.

Herrman said he would not discuss individual compensation.

"The board actually determines the compensation for myself," Herrman said. "The board reviews those leadership roles. They are compared to national standards, national benchmarks and averages, and that is how those things are determined."

Herrman also addressed HaysMed use of noncompete clauses in its contracts, noting that he also has a noncompete clause in his own contract.

"It's a very standard practice within health care," he said.

Multiple providers have recently left the hospital and taken their practices out of state. Some of these include. Dr. Wallace Michael Curry, OBGYNs Drs. Lee Hodny and Joel Fort, and Dr. Anthony Acursso, oncologist.&nbsp;

Herrman added, "When someone first comes on, they are typically not embedded in the area, so you are spending the first couple of years just trying to build their practice for them if they are provider or an advance practice provider."

He said a hospital opens doors for those providers.&nbsp;

He said providers also may have intimate knowledge of the hospital's business strategies.&nbsp;

"That's part of the noncompete, which is to protect that strategic knowledge that an individual gains through their employment," he said.

Herrman said the landscape of health care has changed dramatically since the pandemic.&nbsp;

"You've got much lower reimbursement as we continue to see cuts from Medicare and Medicaid through sequestration and other legislation from the Affordable Care Act," Herrman said.

Herrman said the financial challenges for rural hospitals are more significant in Kansas because the Kansas Legislature has chosen not to expand Medicaid. 

That means about $1.3 million in care that the hospital does not receive for because people would qualify for Medicaid, Herrman said.

Herrman said Kansas hospitals also receive lower reimbursement rates from private insurance than surrounding states, including Colorado and Nebraska.

Rural hospitals are reimbursed at a lower rate than metropolitan hospitals.

"That's why it continues to be difficult for rural facilities when you are trying to fight off inflation, still continue to give raises to your employees and providers—the people who are here taking care of patients, as well as ancillary departments that are supporting them when they are doing that," Herrman said.

"When you are faced with rising costs and reimbursements that are not keeping up with that, you're faced with a couple of choices," he said. "Drive your revenues and decrease costs. Usually, what we have done is a combination of the two. You're trying to be fiscally responsible."

HaysMed is the only level-three trauma center in this portion of the state.

"We know the decisions that we make provide the highest quality of care, but yet in a fiscally responsible way that allows us to be here for the future generations for people here in Ellis County and throughout western Kansas," Herrman said.

Siek said he was proud of the Hays Med staff members, who have offered quality care despite the hospital's challenges.

Herrman and Siek discussed opportunities for HaysMed staff to give feedback to the administration.

Herrman said the hospital offers quarterly input sessions with staff, clinics and outreach clinics in other communities.

He said he has monthly breakfasts with staff members, regular drop-in chat sessions, and quarterly provider meetings. The hospital also surveys its staff members.

"We view what the results are with our staff and develop plans to make HaysMed an environment where people want to work. We try to improve that as much as we can," Herrman said.

Siek said the administrative team, directors and supervisors round regularly with the staff. He said he meets with charge nurses. Units and clinic committees have meetings where feedback can be given

"We take all that feedback to determine what we need to work on and what we need to change or how we can respond to that particular issue because usually if it is an issue in one place, it's an issue in more places," Siek said.

"We are always getting feedback and working on changes that need to be made," he said.

Herrman said he thought morale among hospital staff was improving.

"We know as much change as we have had in the last 18 months, we know morale is not at the peak of what it was prior to COVID," Herrman said.&nbsp;

"I'm not trying to say everything is perfect and sunny and a perfect world here, by no means," Herrman said. "But we have always had a really great open relationship with our providers to be able to sit down and work through what those challenges are and how do we continue to get better.

"I think if you go and look back at what the CMS star rating has been for this facility in the past to where we are now, I think you can see we have continuously raised the bar and the level of the quality of care we provide here."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dfe2755-adc8-4fe4-865a-5d120f08aa65">HaysMed recently announced a five-star rating from CMS.</a>

"Has the financial aspect made it more difficult to navigate? You bet 100%," Herrman said.

He urged residents to discuss Medicaid expansion and private insurance reimbursement with their legislators.

HaysMed also does not qualify for the 340B drug discount program, because it does not see enough Medicaid patients. Those discounts would be another way to assist the hospital financially, Herrman said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592337955905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe HaysMed CEO and director of nursing responded to criticisms from current and former employees on Thursday, explaining the hospital has restructured to deal with financial challenges.HaysMed had an annual loss of $5.6 million as of June 2023, according to a report on the American Hospital Directory. CEO Edward Herrman would not release any further information about the financial status of the hospital except to say the hospital is facing financial challenges.The hospital said it does not distribute an annual report.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0396c2ea-565d-482c-92f7-12bbb547acf7">SEE RELATED STORY: Letter: Local doctor shares concern on HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b9e56ce-abb6-46b3-b2de-6eb1ce011e7a">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed issues statement on financial losses</a>Herrman said in an interview on Thursday the hospital has used funds from investments and cash reserves to deal with some of the hospital's financial issues over the last 18 months.Hospital employees told the Hays Post that staff had been cut from departments.&nbsp;Herrman said the hospital did not have staff reductions. He said the resources were reorganized, but staff members were given the opportunity to apply for other vacancies within the hospital.Employees expressed concerns about hours being cut.The hospital said in an email Friday, "When we looked at departmental efficiencies, some areas did reduce hours. All impacted associates were offered the opportunity to offset those hours in other areas. "Staff received orientation and training if transitioning to a new or unfamiliar area, which is the customary practice for new employees to our organization. We have many staff that are cross trained for different departments in the hospital. This is especially common with nursing departments."Hospital departments and clinics were also asked to see more patients in less time, cutting the time allotted for clinic visits from 30 minutes to 15 minutes. Staff members expressed concerns about how the changes were affecting patient care."We're always trying to make sure that we are being as efficient as possible and maximizing access for patients," Herrman said, "the ability to get patients in [to be seen] in a timely fashion in the clinics or in for anything like X-rays, MRI or CT."Later in the interview, he added, "Quality care of the patients is the No. 1 thing that we do. Do we look for efficiencies so we can see as many patients as possible so we can increase access for people in western Kansas? You bet. We absolutely do. "But because every patient has a different need, are there times they can see a patient quicker, and when you see a new patient, they are scheduled to be in there longer? We vary based on the types of patients they are caring for."Staff members interviewed by Hays Post said the extra time needed to account for patients who needed longer appointments was not figured into the schedule, which resulted in long wait times for some patients.Herrman said the hospital looks at national standards to help establish guidelines for the average number of visits a department or clinic should be able to see. He said the hospital tries to stay at the median of those national averages.HaysMed partners with clinics in other communities in western Kansas. Herrman said that although none of those partnerships have been dissolved, HaysMed staff has been busy enough in Hays that they have had to cut back on clinic time outside of the local hospital.Some hospital staff members expressed concerns about the use of traveling nurses and locum tenens, which are temporary medical staff.Terry Siek, director of nursing and vice president of patient care, said agency nurses are not used in place of native staff members but are used when the hospital has an opening that is not being filled.He said about 10 percent of HaysMed's nursing workforce are agency nurses.According to HaysMed, the current national average of registered nurse turnover in hospitals is 15%. HaysMed’s registered nurse turnover rate is 10.6%, which places HaysMed in the top 10% of all hospitals nationwide with low turnover.Hays Post asked for HaysMed's patient-to-nurse ratios. Siek said the ratios are based on national standards and the patient's acuity.&nbsp;"We strive to hit those national standards," he said. "At times, very infrequently, we may not hit that national standard."Herrman said the hospital has been working to meet all quality metrics on Blue Cross Blue Shield scorecards to maximize its reimbursement.He said the hospital has also sought to decrease the cost of goods used in the hospital by millions of dollars.Some staff members have complained about pay on social media and in interviews with the Hays Post.The hospital's<a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/480972107/202343179349308014/full">&nbsp;current and former leadership earned more than $2 million in 2022, according to its 990 forms filed with the IRS.</a>&nbsp;Herrman earned $726,311 in 2022, according to the 990 form.The Hays Post asked if the hospital leadership had received any pay raises or bonuses since the pandemic, considering the hospital's recent financial struggles.Herrman said he would not discuss individual compensation."The board actually determines the compensation for myself," Herrman said. "The board reviews those leadership roles. They are compared to national standards, national benchmarks and averages, and that is how those things are determined."Herrman also addressed HaysMed use of noncompete clauses in its contracts, noting that he also has a noncompete clause in his own contract."It's a very standard practice within health care," he said.Multiple providers have recently left the hospital and taken their practices out of state. Some of these include. Dr. Wallace Michael Curry, OBGYNs Drs. Lee Hodny and Joel Fort, and Dr. Anthony Acursso, oncologist.&nbsp;Herrman added, "When someone first comes on, they are typically not embedded in the area, so you are spending the first couple of years just trying to build their practice for them if they are provider or an advance practice provider."He said a hospital opens doors for those providers.&nbsp;He said providers also may have intimate knowledge of the hospital's business strategies.&nbsp;"That's part of the noncompete, which is to protect that strategic knowledge that an individual gains through their employment," he said.Herrman said the landscape of health care has changed dramatically since the pandemic.&nbsp;"You've got much lower reimbursement as we continue to see cuts from Medicare and Medicaid through sequestration and other legislation from the Affordable Care Act," Herrman said.Herrman said the financial challenges for rural hospitals are more significant in Kansas because the Kansas Legislature has chosen not to expand Medicaid. That means about $1.3 million in care that the hospital does not receive for because people would qualify for Medicaid, Herrman said.Herrman said Kansas hospitals also receive lower reimbursement rates from private insurance than surrounding states, including Colorado and Nebraska.Rural hospitals are reimbursed at a lower rate than metropolitan hospitals."That's why it continues to be difficult for rural facilities when you are trying to fight off inflation, still continue to give raises to your employees and providers—the people who are here taking care of patients, as well as ancillary departments that are supporting them when they are doing that," Herrman said."When you are faced with rising costs and reimbursements that are not keeping up with that, you're faced with a couple of choices," he said. "Drive your revenues and decrease costs. Usually, what we have done is a combination of the two. You're trying to be fiscally responsible."HaysMed is the only level-three trauma center in this portion of the state."We know the decisions that we make provide the highest quality of care, but yet in a fiscally responsible way that allows us to be here for the future generations for people here in Ellis County and throughout western Kansas," Herrman said.Siek said he was proud of the Hays Med staff members, who have offered quality care despite the hospital's challenges.Herrman and Siek discussed opportunities for HaysMed staff to give feedback to the administration.Herrman said the hospital offers quarterly input sessions with staff, clinics and outreach clinics in other communities.He said he has monthly breakfasts with staff members, regular drop-in chat sessions, and quarterly provider meetings. The hospital also surveys its staff members."We view what the results are with our staff and develop plans to make HaysMed an environment where people want to work. We try to improve that as much as we can," Herrman said.Siek said the administrative team, directors and supervisors round regularly with the staff. He said he meets with charge nurses. Units and clinic committees have meetings where feedback can be given"We take all that feedback to determine what we need to work on and what we need to change or how we can respond to that particular issue because usually if it is an issue in one place, it's an issue in more places," Siek said."We are always getting feedback and working on changes that need to be made," he said.Herrman said he thought morale among hospital staff was improving."We know as much change as we have had in the last 18 months, we know morale is not at the peak of what it was prior to COVID," Herrman said.&nbsp;"I'm not trying to say everything is perfect and sunny and a perfect world here, by no means," Herrman said. "But we have always had a really great open relationship with our providers to be able to sit down and work through what those challenges are and how do we continue to get better."I think if you go and look back at what the CMS star rating has been for this facility in the past to where we are now, I think you can see we have continuously raised the bar and the level of the quality of care we provide here."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dfe2755-adc8-4fe4-865a-5d120f08aa65">HaysMed recently announced a five-star rating from CMS.</a>"Has the financial aspect made it more difficult to navigate? You bet 100%," Herrman said.He urged residents to discuss Medicaid expansion and private insurance reimbursement with their legislators.HaysMed also does not qualify for the 340B drug discount program, because it does not see enough Medicaid patients. Those discounts would be another way to assist the hospital financially, Herrman said.

HaysMed administrators respond to challenges facing hospital

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Gene Stramel discusses Medicare updates with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a>&nbsp;reporter Becky Kiser.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: IPI Financial Services shares Medicare updates" 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=7u7jb-1696028-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&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Gene Stramel discusses Medicare updates with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a>&nbsp;reporter Becky Kiser.

🎙 Post Podcast: IPI Financial Services shares Medicare updates

A joint meeting will be held tonight by the Ellis County and Hays City Commissions.

The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at the Smoky Hill Country Club, 3303 Hall, Hays.

• Joint road projects on 48th Street and at Vineyard Road and 270th Ave. reconstruction&nbsp; • Update on the Hays Police Department/Emergency Dispatch facility • Future growth projects for collaboration • Participation in programs benefitting both the county and the city • Economic development funding

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579287163220.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County/City of HaysA joint meeting will be held tonight by the Ellis County and Hays City Commissions.The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at the Smoky Hill Country Club, 3303 Hall, Hays.Agenda items include discussion of:• Joint road projects on 48th Street and at Vineyard Road and 270th Ave. reconstruction&nbsp; • Update on the Hays Police Department/Emergency Dispatch facility • Future growth projects for collaboration • Participation in programs benefitting both the county and the city • Economic development funding

Joint Ellis County/Hays City Commission meeting tonight

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Implementing the vision behind the recent affiliation initiative between Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College in Hays and Beloit, and Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland is underway.

The nursing and allied health professionals teams at FHSU and what is now known as Fort Hays Tech North Central are leading the way in forming an affiliation partnership that will better serve rural Kansas's educational and workforce development needs.

One affiliation implementation team is addressing the nursing shortage and other challenges in health care, including opportunities for students to get credentialed in health care areas.

"We've worked very closely with Fort Hays Tech North Central, which has a very vibrant nursing program on its Hays campus and an emerging program at its Beloit campus," said Jeff Briggs, dean of the FHSU College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.

The schools' partnership is designed to make a student's transfer to FHSU seamless and enhance the pipeline of persons that will serve rural and remote communities, particularly in western and central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We're really concerned about the demographic decline and how that will devastate some of these communities," said Tisa Mason, FHSU president. "To be a strong state, we can't just focus on the urban areas."

Students interested in nursing can get an associate's degree at the technical college and then follow several seamless transfer pathways to a bachelor of science in nursing degree at FHSU.&nbsp;

"We've been able to create a host of courses that transfer directly, and we've opened up a number of courses students can take while they're pursuing their two-year degree. At the same time, they can take up to five courses in the baccalaureate program," Briggs said.

"It fast tracks these students to the BSN through this partnership. It prepares nurses much faster than what has been our historical pattern."&nbsp;

This academic year, the affiliation implementation will be creating a pathway for seamless admission to Fort Hays State from Fort Hays Tech North Central.

FHSU will also launch a hybrid program this year.&nbsp;

Students will be able to take lecture courses online and have clinical-intensive experiences throughout the semester, then sit for the registered nurse licensure.&nbsp;

Briggs credits the FHSU nursing faculty for developing the creative program concept.&nbsp;

"We know that students tend to stay within the parameters of where they're educated. If we can keep them in western Kansas for educational opportunities, it's often that they'll go back to populate and serve the rural region."&nbsp;

Allied health professionals are also needed in rural areas of Kansas.

Fort Hays Tech Northwest in Goodland offers respiratory care and medical assistant programs, and it is developing a medical specialist program.

"We're partnering with them as part of this affiliation so those students can then receive a baccalaureate degree through Fort Hays State University, advance their credentials. Perhaps pathway into a master's degree, move into administration."&nbsp;

Industry partners are critical for all FHSU allied health programs, and several professionals serve on the implementation team, including Terry Siek, chief nursing officer at HaysMed, Nicki Cleveland, chief nursing officer at Mitchell County Hospital in Beloit, and Jaron Caffrey of the Kansas Hospital Association.

"Independently, we work so closely with all our regional hospitals, our critical care access hospitals, and clinics for placing our students for clinical experiences. Then there are opportunities for them to recruit those students into employment upon completion of the program."

Briggs said the hands-on clinical experience is critically important for the original nursing certification.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FHSU and its partner schools have patient simulation labs on their campuses, where students can learn and practice techniques before entering the more organic real-life environment.

"They've had to think through the scenarios that they're presented. They're more work-ready when they do graduate," Briggs said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FHSU students do a rural clinical rotation, which is a vastly different environment from an urban hospital such as Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The university has submitted an application for a competitive $4 million federal grant to support the rural clinical rotation program.&nbsp;

Thanks in part to $15 million in funding from the Kansas Legislature, Fort Hays State University is expanding its nursing program and adding to Stroup Hall, the nursing building.&nbsp;

Design plans are underway with a goal of opening the doors in 2027.

Community promotional events to celebrate the affiliation between FHSU and Fort Hays Tech North Central will be at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 12 in the Hays downtown pavilion and Sept. 14 in downtown Beloit.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721315314724.png" alt="&nbsp;Nursing and allied health are the education program teams most recently working on the affiliation implementation between FHSU, NCK Technical College and NWK Technical College.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Nursing and allied health are the education program teams most recently working on the affiliation implementation between FHSU, NCK Technical College and NWK Technical College.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostImplementing the vision behind the recent affiliation initiative between Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College in Hays and Beloit, and Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland is underway.The nursing and allied health professionals teams at FHSU and what is now known as Fort Hays Tech North Central are leading the way in forming an affiliation partnership that will better serve rural Kansas's educational and workforce development needs.One affiliation implementation team is addressing the nursing shortage and other challenges in health care, including opportunities for students to get credentialed in health care areas."We've worked very closely with Fort Hays Tech North Central, which has a very vibrant nursing program on its Hays campus and an emerging program at its Beloit campus," said Jeff Briggs, dean of the FHSU College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.The schools' partnership is designed to make a student's transfer to FHSU seamless and enhance the pipeline of persons that will serve rural and remote communities, particularly in western and central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We're really concerned about the demographic decline and how that will devastate some of these communities," said Tisa Mason, FHSU president. "To be a strong state, we can't just focus on the urban areas."Students interested in nursing can get an associate's degree at the technical college and then follow several seamless transfer pathways to a bachelor of science in nursing degree at FHSU.&nbsp;"We've been able to create a host of courses that transfer directly, and we've opened up a number of courses students can take while they're pursuing their two-year degree. At the same time, they can take up to five courses in the baccalaureate program," Briggs said."It fast tracks these students to the BSN through this partnership. It prepares nurses much faster than what has been our historical pattern."&nbsp;This academic year, the affiliation implementation will be creating a pathway for seamless admission to Fort Hays State from Fort Hays Tech North Central.FHSU will also launch a hybrid program this year.&nbsp;Students will be able to take lecture courses online and have clinical-intensive experiences throughout the semester, then sit for the registered nurse licensure.&nbsp;Briggs credits the FHSU nursing faculty for developing the creative program concept.&nbsp;"We know that students tend to stay within the parameters of where they're educated. If we can keep them in western Kansas for educational opportunities, it's often that they'll go back to populate and serve the rural region."&nbsp;Allied health professionals are also needed in rural areas of Kansas.Fort Hays Tech Northwest in Goodland offers respiratory care and medical assistant programs, and it is developing a medical specialist program."We're partnering with them as part of this affiliation so those students can then receive a baccalaureate degree through Fort Hays State University, advance their credentials. Perhaps pathway into a master's degree, move into administration."&nbsp;Industry partners are critical for all FHSU allied health programs, and several professionals serve on the implementation team, including Terry Siek, chief nursing officer at HaysMed, Nicki Cleveland, chief nursing officer at Mitchell County Hospital in Beloit, and Jaron Caffrey of the Kansas Hospital Association."Independently, we work so closely with all our regional hospitals, our critical care access hospitals, and clinics for placing our students for clinical experiences. Then there are opportunities for them to recruit those students into employment upon completion of the program."Briggs said the hands-on clinical experience is critically important for the original nursing certification.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU and its partner schools have patient simulation labs on their campuses, where students can learn and practice techniques before entering the more organic real-life environment."They've had to think through the scenarios that they're presented. They're more work-ready when they do graduate," Briggs said.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU students do a rural clinical rotation, which is a vastly different environment from an urban hospital such as Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;The university has submitted an application for a competitive $4 million federal grant to support the rural clinical rotation program.&nbsp;Thanks in part to $15 million in funding from the Kansas Legislature, Fort Hays State University is expanding its nursing program and adding to Stroup Hall, the nursing building.&nbsp;Design plans are underway with a goal of opening the doors in 2027.Community promotional events to celebrate the affiliation between FHSU and Fort Hays Tech North Central will be at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 12 in the Hays downtown pavilion and Sept. 14 in downtown Beloit.&nbsp;

Nursing, allied health programs grow with FHSU, Fort Hays Tech North Central affiliation

By TERRI MILLER Consumer Education Specialist, FTC

You get a text message from a number you don’t know, asking when you’re free to catch up over a cup of coffee. Don’t perk up just yet. That invitation for a coffee date might sound like it’s from a friend you’ve lost touch with, but it’s probably just a scammer looking to start a conversation with you. Not sure how to respond? The short answer is: Don’t. Keep reading to find out why.

Scammers will say just about anything to get your attention. In this case, they might text you and ask if you want to meet up for a cup of joe. If you respond — maybe by telling them they’ve got the wrong number — you’re letting them know that your phone number works, which could lead to more calls and texts from the scammer. Or worse, they might say something else to keep the conversation going. They might apologize, then pitch you a scam — maybe by asking if you’re interested in learning about a secret way to make big money using&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>. That’s always a scam! The best way to handle this situation is to slow down and:

Learn more about out how to get fewer&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages">spam texts</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-get-less-spam-your-email">emails</a>. And if you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722879576911.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TERRI MILLER Consumer Education Specialist, FTCYou get a text message from a number you don’t know, asking when you’re free to catch up over a cup of coffee. Don’t perk up just yet. That invitation for a coffee date might sound like it’s from a friend you’ve lost touch with, but it’s probably just a scammer looking to start a conversation with you. Not sure how to respond? The short answer is: Don’t. Keep reading to find out why.Scammers will say just about anything to get your attention. In this case, they might text you and ask if you want to meet up for a cup of joe. If you respond — maybe by telling them they’ve got the wrong number — you’re letting them know that your phone number works, which could lead to more calls and texts from the scammer. Or worse, they might say something else to keep the conversation going. They might apologize, then pitch you a scam — maybe by asking if you’re interested in learning about a secret way to make big money using&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>. That’s always a scam! The best way to handle this situation is to slow down and:<ul>
 <li>Don’t respond to unexpected text messages like this from unknown phone numbers.&nbsp;Some messages from unknown numbers might be legit, but this isn’t your doctor’s office confirming an upcoming appointment. Copy the message and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ctia.org%2Fconsumer-resources%2Fprotecting-yourself-from-spam-text-messages&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2024%2F08%2Fwhen-are-you-free-coffee-long-lost-friend-or-scammer-trying-get-you-respond%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery">forward it</a>&nbsp;to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider spot and block similar messages in the future.</li><li>Don’t click on links in unexpected text messages.&nbsp;They might steal your information or install&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;on your device. Scammers want you to react quickly to unexpected text messages, but it’s best to stop and check it out. Or just delete it.</li>
 </ul>Learn more about out how to get fewer&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages">spam texts</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-get-less-spam-your-email">emails</a>. And if you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

“When are you free for coffee?” Long lost friend or a scammer trying to get you to respond?

By MONIQUE KOERNER and ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

You are probably asking yourself, “What is QPR?” QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer. Three steps anyone can learn to help prevent suicide. QPR is a suicide-prevention training designed to educate people from all walks of life on how to recognize the warning signs of suicide. QPR training helps people get comfortable asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" and then helping others get appropriate help.

The world is experiencing a global mental health crisis and Kansas is not exempt. There has been a statistically significant 51.4% increase in the suicide death rate from 2011 to 2022 and in 2022 there were 8,453 Kansans who visited an Emergency Department for suicidal ideation (KDHE Suicide-Related Data). The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. The signs of crisis are all around us. We believe that quality education empowers all people, regardless of their background to make a positive difference in the life of someone they know.

K-State Research and Extension is committed to helping the mental health crisis in Kansas by creating the Stress and Resiliency Transdisciplinary team. Our Stress and Resiliency team provides educational information about stress, stress management and resiliency, or one’s ability to adapt positively to difficult experiences. Areas of focus include all types of stress and general mental health information, because stress impacts all of us – regardless of demographic.

Increasing awareness and people’s willingness to talk about mental health will encourage more Kansans to get the help they need. Another goal is to equip Kansans with tools and techniques that help them recognize and manage stress within their lives, families and communities. Our team also strives to educate Kansans about resiliency - how to enhance it and how to incorporate it into their daily lives.

One of the initiatives of the Stress and Resiliency Team is to train agents in QPR among other educational trainings. Recently, Monique Koerner joined Alicia Boor in becoming a QPR

gatekeeper for the Cottonwood Extension District. We are available to present QPR to a wide variety of audiences. Some examples would include workplaces, schools, colleges and universities, faith communities, emergency departments and services, and other civic organizations that are interested in learning more about the mental health crisis and suicide prevention.

For more information about mental health, stress, stress management or to schedule a QPR training, please contact Cottonwood Extension District at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. Or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu or Alica at aboor@ksu.edu

Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent. You can reach her at 620-793-1910 or aboor@ksu.edu. Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605624283047.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER and ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictYou are probably asking yourself, “What is QPR?” QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer. Three steps anyone can learn to help prevent suicide. QPR is a suicide-prevention training designed to educate people from all walks of life on how to recognize the warning signs of suicide. QPR training helps people get comfortable asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" and then helping others get appropriate help.The world is experiencing a global mental health crisis and Kansas is not exempt. There has been a statistically significant 51.4% increase in the suicide death rate from 2011 to 2022 and in 2022 there were 8,453 Kansans who visited an Emergency Department for suicidal ideation (KDHE Suicide-Related Data). The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. The signs of crisis are all around us. We believe that quality education empowers all people, regardless of their background to make a positive difference in the life of someone they know.K-State Research and Extension is committed to helping the mental health crisis in Kansas by creating the Stress and Resiliency Transdisciplinary team. Our Stress and Resiliency team provides educational information about stress, stress management and resiliency, or one’s ability to adapt positively to difficult experiences. Areas of focus include all types of stress and general mental health information, because stress impacts all of us – regardless of demographic.Increasing awareness and people’s willingness to talk about mental health will encourage more Kansans to get the help they need. Another goal is to equip Kansans with tools and techniques that help them recognize and manage stress within their lives, families and communities. Our team also strives to educate Kansans about resiliency - how to enhance it and how to incorporate it into their daily lives.One of the initiatives of the Stress and Resiliency Team is to train agents in QPR among other educational trainings. Recently, Monique Koerner joined Alicia Boor in becoming a QPRgatekeeper for the Cottonwood Extension District. We are available to present QPR to a wide variety of audiences. Some examples would include workplaces, schools, colleges and universities, faith communities, emergency departments and services, and other civic organizations that are interested in learning more about the mental health crisis and suicide prevention.For more information about mental health, stress, stress management or to schedule a QPR training, please contact Cottonwood Extension District at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. Or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu or Alica at aboor@ksu.eduAlicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent. You can reach her at 620-793-1910 or aboor@ksu.edu. Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

COTTONWOOD DISTRICT: Suicide prevention

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

I don’t know about you but this summer has flown by!

When our kids were small, transitioning back from long days of farm life to the much more structured pace of school was often a challenge. While they certainly had early mornings and a multitude of responsibilities for the farm, it was much different getting up and ready for the school bus every day.

I usually tried to start a few weeks ahead of time with slowly adjusting bedtime schedules. As an off-the-farm working mom, it was often stressful and I regularly worried that I had everything prepared!

Things that helped us were a white-board calendar the size of the freezer door. Each family member had their own color of dry erase marker and it made schedules a little more manageable. We also kept a grocery list on the refrigerator door and each family member was expected to add items they needed for every day or wanted for lunches.

Speaking of lunches, we had one pretty picky eater and our plan was that the kids had to check the next day’s lunch menu and had to eat at least three items on the menu including the main dish or they had to pack their lunch! Yes, I checked their lunch to make sure it wasn’t just cookies and chips! They usually did a pretty good job of packing a mostly balanced meal that they would actually eat.

I was never very good about laying out clothes the night before – I can’t manage that for myself as an adult! While I do appreciate that this habit can definitely make mornings smoother, I am still a work in progress. Keeping up on laundry was always a challenge, especially with farm dirt and working full-time, so we tried to have a schedule of washing a load a day. It sure helped when the kids were old enough to help which meant 7 or 8 was helping to fold and definitely putting their own things away. By 10 or 12, they helped with hanging things up or putting them in the dryer.

Both kids are good cooks and those skills started at an early age. Knowing the basics of food preparation allowed them to get ingredients together or begin thawing meat for a meal by the time they were in middle school.

All of those things didn’t guarantee smooth evenings especially with homework. Their normal station was in the kitchen so we could talk about

assignments and their day while I made dinner and they worked on homework. It was a good way to practice conversation and have a small window into their fun, frustrations, and feelings. These days, I miss those moments but our daughter often calls on her way home from work in Kansas City and we chat while I start dinner!

Nothing of these ideas are rocket science but I hope you will look for ways to connect with your kids in car or in the kitchen.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179500533.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictI don’t know about you but this summer has flown by!When our kids were small, transitioning back from long days of farm life to the much more structured pace of school was often a challenge. While they certainly had early mornings and a multitude of responsibilities for the farm, it was much different getting up and ready for the school bus every day.I usually tried to start a few weeks ahead of time with slowly adjusting bedtime schedules. As an off-the-farm working mom, it was often stressful and I regularly worried that I had everything prepared!Things that helped us were a white-board calendar the size of the freezer door. Each family member had their own color of dry erase marker and it made schedules a little more manageable. We also kept a grocery list on the refrigerator door and each family member was expected to add items they needed for every day or wanted for lunches.Speaking of lunches, we had one pretty picky eater and our plan was that the kids had to check the next day’s lunch menu and had to eat at least three items on the menu including the main dish or they had to pack their lunch! Yes, I checked their lunch to make sure it wasn’t just cookies and chips! They usually did a pretty good job of packing a mostly balanced meal that they would actually eat.I was never very good about laying out clothes the night before – I can’t manage that for myself as an adult! While I do appreciate that this habit can definitely make mornings smoother, I am still a work in progress. Keeping up on laundry was always a challenge, especially with farm dirt and working full-time, so we tried to have a schedule of washing a load a day. It sure helped when the kids were old enough to help which meant 7 or 8 was helping to fold and definitely putting their own things away. By 10 or 12, they helped with hanging things up or putting them in the dryer.Both kids are good cooks and those skills started at an early age. Knowing the basics of food preparation allowed them to get ingredients together or begin thawing meat for a meal by the time they were in middle school.All of those things didn’t guarantee smooth evenings especially with homework. Their normal station was in the kitchen so we could talk aboutassignments and their day while I made dinner and they worked on homework. It was a good way to practice conversation and have a small window into their fun, frustrations, and feelings. These days, I miss those moments but our daughter often calls on her way home from work in Kansas City and we chat while I start dinner!Nothing of these ideas are rocket science but I hope you will look for ways to connect with your kids in car or in the kitchen.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Back to school

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723404793871.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>

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Feral Chickens…Seriously?

BY TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

American Field Service is looking to bring diverse cultures to Hays by placing international exchange students with local families.

The program helps international students become tomorrow's leaders while host families gain a deeper understanding of cultures.

"Our mission is to empower active global citizens to create a more just and peaceful world,"&nbsp;AFS-USA Development Manager of Scholarships and External Communications Candace O'Malley said.

The nonprofit is a leader in international high school exchanges, with almost 3,000 volunteers supporting families, students and schools across the country.

O'Malley said AFS has the potential to host international students at Hays High School and is seeking families for the 2024-2025 school year.

Students are chosen to participate in AFS programs through an application process, allowing host families to select the best fit for their home from a range of options.

"We work with 80 countries around the world, bringing in over 1,000 students across the United States to stay in volunteer host families every year," O'Malley said.

Host families must introduce the student to daily family activities and events, offer the same care, support, and comfort as any other family member, provide a bed, and provide three quality meals a day.

Students will have their own spending money for social and school activities and clothing for their stay, which ranges from five to 10 months. Host parents are eligible for a tax deduction each month they host a student.

"Bring the world to your home and have an intercultural exchange in your home to develop lifelong relationships," O'Malley said.

Host parents are also responsible for providing school-related transportation. Medical insurance, school enrollment and travel expenses are covered by the student’s family or through scholarships.

Local volunteer teams offer assistance through monthly check-ins and additional support, including an assigned "liaison."

While AFS recommends students to families based on different criteria, host families choose which student to welcome into their home.

"Some families choose based on a country of interest or culture of interest," O'Malley said. "There's flexibility for host families to choose the student or students that you'd like to host."

 AFS takes responsibility for relocating the participant to another family if the match between the family and student does not work out.

Host families must complete an <a href="https://usa.afsglobal.org/HostFamily/signup?_ga=2.257900559.564273184.1722875092-1372071699.1722534773">application </a>about their family, undergo a criminal background check and participate in an interview with an AFS representative.

All types of families can apply, including those with children, childless couples, single adults or parents and LGBTQ+ families or individuals.

With the support of AFS scholarships, U.S. students can also study abroad in roughly 50 international destinations, such as Italy, Egypt, Brazil, Argentina and South Africa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722882750882.jpg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>BY TONY GUERRERO Hays PostAmerican Field Service is looking to bring diverse cultures to Hays by placing international exchange students with local families.The program helps international students become tomorrow's leaders while host families gain a deeper understanding of cultures."Our mission is to empower active global citizens to create a more just and peaceful world,"&nbsp;AFS-USA Development Manager of Scholarships and External Communications Candace O'Malley said.The nonprofit is a leader in international high school exchanges, with almost 3,000 volunteers supporting families, students and schools across the country.O'Malley said AFS has the potential to host international students at Hays High School and is seeking families for the 2024-2025 school year.Students are chosen to participate in AFS programs through an application process, allowing host families to select the best fit for their home from a range of options."We work with 80 countries around the world, bringing in over 1,000 students across the United States to stay in volunteer host families every year," O'Malley said.Host families must introduce the student to daily family activities and events, offer the same care, support, and comfort as any other family member, provide a bed, and provide three quality meals a day.Students will have their own spending money for social and school activities and clothing for their stay, which ranges from five to 10 months. Host parents are eligible for a tax deduction each month they host a student."Bring the world to your home and have an intercultural exchange in your home to develop lifelong relationships," O'Malley said.Host parents are also responsible for providing school-related transportation. Medical insurance, school enrollment and travel expenses are covered by the student’s family or through scholarships.Local volunteer teams offer assistance through monthly check-ins and additional support, including an assigned "liaison."While AFS recommends students to families based on different criteria, host families choose which student to welcome into their home."Some families choose based on a country of interest or culture of interest," O'Malley said. "There's flexibility for host families to choose the student or students that you'd like to host." AFS takes responsibility for relocating the participant to another family if the match between the family and student does not work out.Host families must complete an <a href="https://usa.afsglobal.org/HostFamily/signup?_ga=2.257900559.564273184.1722875092-1372071699.1722534773">application </a>about their family, undergo a criminal background check and participate in an interview with an AFS representative.All types of families can apply, including those with children, childless couples, single adults or parents and LGBTQ+ families or individuals.With the support of AFS scholarships, U.S. students can also study abroad in roughly 50 international destinations, such as Italy, Egypt, Brazil, Argentina and South Africa.AFS sends about 400 U.S. students abroad each year.The organization started as a volunteer group for ambulance drivers during World War I and World War II, who emerged from the wars with a bold mission."AFS members wanted to figure out how to avoid another world war and thought, 'let's bring young people together from different countries to have a cultural exchange,'" O'Malley said.Since then, AFS has evolved into one of the largest and longest-standing high school student exchange organizations and is always looking for host families.You can find more information on&nbsp;American Field Service-USA on its <a href="https://www.afsusa.org/">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AFSUSA/">Facebook</a>.