I’m sure you all have seen Hay Post story on your decision to renew Eddie's position. If any of you haven't, I would encourage you to go to Hays Post to learn about what people are saying about your&nbsp;leadership&nbsp;at Hays Medical Center.

Unfortunately, the readers of this Post extend to the entire western part of our state. All of my referrals and all of the referrals to Hays Medical Center are in the zone.

The whole reason I started writing letters, taking time to address issues to the board, was to make sure all you board members were&nbsp;aware&nbsp;of what was happening. It was my sincere hope and prayer that this would not become a public event.

Despite repeated urgings to go public with my concerns, I never did so, as this reflects negatively on our hospital, the administration and most importantly you board members. Don't blame Dr. Curry for his post that went viral. He is not the one who&nbsp;voted. 

Just read the numbers of people who agree with and supported everything he was saying. Like it or not, you board members have been charged with overseeing the administration and making sure that the hospital is moving in the right direction.

Hays will be a much different place with a hospital that soon will have to lay off even more people due to the enormous loss of several of your most productive departments.

I can’t imagine any physician wanting to come to a place that has such unaddressed&nbsp;turmoil. The only physicians, nurses or staff members who would work in such a chaotic, oppressive and hostile environment are those who come only for the&nbsp;Money!

These are not the physicians I would choose to go to, nor is it the reflection of high-quality care that we have so long been accustomed to.&nbsp;Your&nbsp;decision to let the OB department crumble with no one held accountable will cost tens of millions of dollars in revenue and take decades to rebuild.

You have been warned that other departments are also fragmented and crumbling, and still voted to maintain the&nbsp;status quo. I expect moving forward with his poor leadership will result in even more departments crumbling.

Hays will be a much different place. The decision was&nbsp;yours. Rumors and perceptions would've been much different had you elected to fire Eddie Herrman, HaysMed CEO, instead of renewing his contract.

Clearly financial struggles would have continued to exist. New problems would arise, but you would have had the respect and support of those staff members who have given their heart and soul to Hays Medical Center.

I can assure you, they would've worked diligently to try to rebuild Hays Medical Center under new leadership.&nbsp;People in Hays, would be willing to make concessions if they saw leaderships doing the same.

A leader that would value people and not announce EVERYONE is REPLACEABLE.&nbsp; What in the world did you see in Eddie that would blind you to such a&nbsp;catastrophic&nbsp;decision? Was it your fear of having to work as a board choosing a new administrator? How in the world do you think the morale and the support of those lifers will be regained after turning your back on them in favor of Eddie?

No, I don't have all the facts, so I hope you have Great reasons and a Solid plan in effect to rebuild departments, staff members and others who will be affected in the short term….next 5 to 10 years.

In the last six weeks, I have personally witnessed the incredible struggles with health care. Losing any physician, experienced staff member or other members of our hospital WILL be very difficult to replace.

The decisions were yours. The consequences will also be yours and Will affect everyone in Hays. I hope I'm incredibly wrong in my assessment of this current debacle. This is the first time in 30 years that I have been practicing in Hays that I have been so disappointed in the leadership of Hays Medical Center.

Regretfully, Don Tillman, Hays dermatologist

Editor's note: Dr. Tillman is not employed by HaysMed.

I’m sure you all have seen Hay Post story on your decision to renew Eddie's position. If any of you haven't, I would encourage you to go to Hays Post to learn about what people are saying about your&nbsp;leadership&nbsp;at Hays Medical Center.Unfortunately, the readers of this Post extend to the entire western part of our state. All of my referrals and all of the referrals to Hays Medical Center are in the zone.The whole reason I started writing letters, taking time to address issues to the board, was to make sure all you board members were&nbsp;aware&nbsp;of what was happening. It was my sincere hope and prayer that this would not become a public event.Despite repeated urgings to go public with my concerns, I never did so, as this reflects negatively on our hospital, the administration and most importantly you board members. Don't blame Dr. Curry for his post that went viral. He is not the one who&nbsp;voted. Just read the numbers of people who agree with and supported everything he was saying. Like it or not, you board members have been charged with overseeing the administration and making sure that the hospital is moving in the right direction.Hays will be a much different place with a hospital that soon will have to lay off even more people due to the enormous loss of several of your most productive departments.I can’t imagine any physician wanting to come to a place that has such unaddressed&nbsp;turmoil. The only physicians, nurses or staff members who would work in such a chaotic, oppressive and hostile environment are those who come only for the&nbsp;Money!These are not the physicians I would choose to go to, nor is it the reflection of high-quality care that we have so long been accustomed to.&nbsp;Your&nbsp;decision to let the OB department crumble with no one held accountable will cost tens of millions of dollars in revenue and take decades to rebuild.You have been warned that other departments are also fragmented and crumbling, and still voted to maintain the&nbsp;status quo. I expect moving forward with his poor leadership will result in even more departments crumbling.Hays will be a much different place. The decision was&nbsp;yours. Rumors and perceptions would've been much different had you elected to fire Eddie Herrman, HaysMed CEO, instead of renewing his contract.Clearly financial struggles would have continued to exist. New problems would arise, but you would have had the respect and support of those staff members who have given their heart and soul to Hays Medical Center.I can assure you, they would've worked diligently to try to rebuild Hays Medical Center under new leadership.&nbsp;People in Hays, would be willing to make concessions if they saw leaderships doing the same.A leader that would value people and not announce EVERYONE is REPLACEABLE.&nbsp; What in the world did you see in Eddie that would blind you to such a&nbsp;catastrophic&nbsp;decision? Was it your fear of having to work as a board choosing a new administrator? How in the world do you think the morale and the support of those lifers will be regained after turning your back on them in favor of Eddie?No, I don't have all the facts, so I hope you have Great reasons and a Solid plan in effect to rebuild departments, staff members and others who will be affected in the short term….next 5 to 10 years.In the last six weeks, I have personally witnessed the incredible struggles with health care. Losing any physician, experienced staff member or other members of our hospital WILL be very difficult to replace.The decisions were yours. The consequences will also be yours and Will affect everyone in Hays. I hope I'm incredibly wrong in my assessment of this current debacle. This is the first time in 30 years that I have been practicing in Hays that I have been so disappointed in the leadership of Hays Medical Center.Regretfully, Don Tillman, Hays dermatologistEditor's note: Dr. Tillman is not employed by HaysMed.

Letter: Local doctor shares concern on HaysMed

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A Russell County commissioner candidate has a history of misdemeanors arrests, including charges of driving under the influence, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and battery on a law enforcement officer.

According to court records, Republican Jamie Gage, a candidate for Russell County commissioner in District 5, was involved in a September 2019 incident where she faced charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, interference with law enforcement by obstructing, resisting, or opposing misdemeanor warrant service or execution, according to court records.

She pleaded no contest to one count of interference with a law enforcement officer. A count of battery on a law enforcement officer was dropped. Gage pleaded guilty to a second count of interference with a law enforcement officer.

In February 2014, Gage was arrested for alleged possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia intended for use. The case resulted in a diversion.

In November 2005, Gage faced her second conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Gage pleaded guilty. She was ordered to serve 12 months of probation.

The Russell County Sheriff's Office was unavailable for a statement.

Gage said her promotional materials, which include yard signs and large banners, have allegedly been stolen or defaced in the past month.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6d760c7d-1b24-41bf-a1bc-14bc4ac9c970">SEE RELATED STORY: Russell County commissioner campaign signs stolen; candidate alleges death threats</a>

Republicans Mitch Driscoll, Kevin Mravinec, Alan Kuntzsch, Anthony Mahoney and Jamie Gage, along with Democrat Tom Mahoney, are running for Russell County commissioner in District 5 in the Kansas primary election today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722556443947.jpeg" alt="Candidate for Russell County Commissioner in District 5 Jamie Gage. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Candidate for Russell County Commissioner in District 5 Jamie Gage. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Russell County commissioner candidate has a history of misdemeanors arrests, including charges of driving under the influence, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and battery on a law enforcement officer.According to court records, Republican Jamie Gage, a candidate for Russell County commissioner in District 5, was involved in a September 2019 incident where she faced charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, interference with law enforcement by obstructing, resisting, or opposing misdemeanor warrant service or execution, according to court records.She pleaded no contest to one count of interference with a law enforcement officer. A count of battery on a law enforcement officer was dropped. Gage pleaded guilty to a second count of interference with a law enforcement officer.She paid $403 in fines.In February 2014, Gage was arrested for alleged possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia intended for use. The case resulted in a diversion.In November 2005, Gage faced her second conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Gage pleaded guilty. She was ordered to serve 12 months of probation.The Russell County Sheriff's Office was unavailable for a statement.Gage said her promotional materials, which include yard signs and large banners, have allegedly been stolen or defaced in the past month.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6d760c7d-1b24-41bf-a1bc-14bc4ac9c970">SEE RELATED STORY: Russell County commissioner campaign signs stolen; candidate alleges death threats</a>Republicans Mitch Driscoll, Kevin Mravinec, Alan Kuntzsch, Anthony Mahoney and Jamie Gage, along with Democrat Tom Mahoney, are running for Russell County commissioner in District 5 in the Kansas primary election today.

Russell County commissioner history of misdemeanors

Join Girl Scouts for S'mores Day Saturday in Hays 

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Crude prices are dropping from six-month lows. 

Friday's (8/2) settlement price for light sweet near-month NYMEX crude was $73.52 per barrel, marking a weekly loss of more than four dollars a barrel. Prices are down ten dollars from the first of July. By midday Monday the benchmark contract in New York was down another half dollar, dipping below $73 for the first time since February.

Kansas Common crude dropped nearly three dollars Friday (8/2), and will start the week at $63.75 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. That's down ten dollars from the first of July and more than seven dollars below the average price last month.

Commercial crude inventories last week dropped by 3.4 million barrels to 433 million according to a report from the Energy Information Administration. Industry reports showed an even larger draw on stockpiles. The weekly inventory report from the government also shows another 700-thousand barrels of crude added to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

Total U.S. crude-oil production averaged 13,295,000 barrels per day, down slightly from a week earlier. Output in Alaska dropped by 19-thousand barrels a day, while the lower-48 states remained unchanged for a third week in a row.

U.S. crude imports outpaced exports last week by more than two million barrels a day. But we exported more petroleum products than we imported, by more than four million barrels a day. Crude imports averaged seven million barrels per day last week, up 82,000 daily barrels from a week earlier. The four-week average is nearly six percent higher than a year ago. Crude exports jumped by nearly 800,000 barrels a day from a week ago, to 4.9 million. Four week average exports are up nearly eight percent or 309,000 daily barrels from a year ago.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was down three gas rigs for a total of 586 rigs. The count in Texas is down two, while Colorado, Louisiana and Pennsylvania were each down one.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service rose by two rigs in western Kansas for a statewide total of 29 active rigs. The tally is up seven percent from a month ago, but down 26% from last year at this time. In Ellis County last week, operators reached total depth on one lease and drilling continued on Friday on another.

Operators in the Sunflower State completed 18 wells last week, with nine east of Wichita and nine in the western half of the state. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 745 new well completions so far this year, compared to 994 by this time last year.

Kansas regulators approved 21 new drilling locations last week, with 12 in western Kansas, including one in Stafford County. So far this year there are 591 permits for drilling at new locations, compared to 744 a year ago at this time.

The Kansas Geological Society recognized and named five new fields in Kansas.&nbsp; The operator American Warrior, based in Garden City, hit newly-named pay dirt once in Graham County and twice in Thomas County.

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 139 new intent-to-drill notices in July, 655 so far this year, compared to 817 through July last year. 

The KCC web site shows Barton County with four new intents, 18 thus far this year.&nbsp; Ellis County notches two for the month and seven year-to-date. Russell County adds one for a 2024 total of seven. Stafford County adds one more for a total of nine intents through July.

The question of earthquake prevention returns to the Texas oil patch, with a cluster of felt earthquakes in just the last couple of weeks. Bloomberg reports the state's top oil and gas regulator is investigating wastewater disposal operations northeast of Midland, the unofficial Permian capital. 

This comes after at least five temblors rumbled through the region with a magnitude of four or greater since July 23. The U.S. Geological Survey confirms hundreds of quakes in the area centered around Hermleigh and Camp Springs, Texas, including one of a magnitude 5.1 on the Richter scale. 

This marks a step back for the Lone Star State, where the frequency of earthquakes dropped last year for the first time in five years after the Commission cracked down on wastewater disposal.&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 MediaCrude prices are dropping from six-month lows. Friday's (8/2) settlement price for light sweet near-month NYMEX crude was $73.52 per barrel, marking a weekly loss of more than four dollars a barrel. Prices are down ten dollars from the first of July. By midday Monday the benchmark contract in New York was down another half dollar, dipping below $73 for the first time since February.Kansas Common crude dropped nearly three dollars Friday (8/2), and will start the week at $63.75 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. That's down ten dollars from the first of July and more than seven dollars below the average price last month.Commercial crude inventories last week dropped by 3.4 million barrels to 433 million according to a report from the Energy Information Administration. Industry reports showed an even larger draw on stockpiles. The weekly inventory report from the government also shows another 700-thousand barrels of crude added to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.Total U.S. crude-oil production averaged 13,295,000 barrels per day, down slightly from a week earlier. Output in Alaska dropped by 19-thousand barrels a day, while the lower-48 states remained unchanged for a third week in a row.U.S. crude imports outpaced exports last week by more than two million barrels a day. But we exported more petroleum products than we imported, by more than four million barrels a day. Crude imports averaged seven million barrels per day last week, up 82,000 daily barrels from a week earlier. The four-week average is nearly six percent higher than a year ago. Crude exports jumped by nearly 800,000 barrels a day from a week ago, to 4.9 million. Four week average exports are up nearly eight percent or 309,000 daily barrels from a year ago.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was down three gas rigs for a total of 586 rigs. The count in Texas is down two, while Colorado, Louisiana and Pennsylvania were each down one.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service rose by two rigs in western Kansas for a statewide total of 29 active rigs. The tally is up seven percent from a month ago, but down 26% from last year at this time. In Ellis County last week, operators reached total depth on one lease and drilling continued on Friday on another.Operators in the Sunflower State completed 18 wells last week, with nine east of Wichita and nine in the western half of the state. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 745 new well completions so far this year, compared to 994 by this time last year.Kansas regulators approved 21 new drilling locations last week, with 12 in western Kansas, including one in Stafford County. So far this year there are 591 permits for drilling at new locations, compared to 744 a year ago at this time.The Kansas Geological Society recognized and named five new fields in Kansas.&nbsp; The operator American Warrior, based in Garden City, hit newly-named pay dirt once in Graham County and twice in Thomas County.The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 139 new intent-to-drill notices in July, 655 so far this year, compared to 817 through July last year. The KCC web site shows Barton County with four new intents, 18 thus far this year.&nbsp; Ellis County notches two for the month and seven year-to-date. Russell County adds one for a 2024 total of seven. Stafford County adds one more for a total of nine intents through July.The question of earthquake prevention returns to the Texas oil patch, with a cluster of felt earthquakes in just the last couple of weeks. Bloomberg reports the state's top oil and gas regulator is investigating wastewater disposal operations northeast of Midland, the unofficial Permian capital. This comes after at least five temblors rumbled through the region with a magnitude of four or greater since July 23. The U.S. Geological Survey confirms hundreds of quakes in the area centered around Hermleigh and Camp Springs, Texas, including one of a magnitude 5.1 on the Richter scale. This marks a step back for the Lone Star State, where the frequency of earthquakes dropped last year for the first time in five years after the Commission cracked down on wastewater disposal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: Crude prices tumble

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Polls are open today for the August primary election in Kansas.&nbsp;

In Ellis County, the regular polling locations are open until 7 p.m.

Election workers at the Hays Recreation Center polling location said they were expecting a slow day with low turnout.

All advance ballots by mail must be postmarked by election day and received by Friday, August 9

Be sure to check Hays Post for the local results, including a ballot question for residents of Victoria, Ellis, and rural Ellis County about whether to establish a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1d4cd415-10df-4079-8cb1-422ab78bf4cb">county library</a>.

All Kansas state senate and house seats are up for election.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709323737405.png" alt=" File photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption> File photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostPolls are open today for the August primary election in Kansas.&nbsp;In Ellis County, the regular polling locations are open until 7 p.m.Election workers at the Hays Recreation Center polling location said they were expecting a slow day with low turnout.All advance ballots by mail must be postmarked by election day and received by Friday, August 9Be sure to check Hays Post for the local results, including a ballot question for residents of Victoria, Ellis, and rural Ellis County about whether to establish a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1d4cd415-10df-4079-8cb1-422ab78bf4cb">county library</a>.All Kansas state senate and house seats are up for election.&nbsp;

It's primary election day in Kansas; polls open until 7 p.m.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will consider putting the final
touches on the 2025 budget Tuesday at its first meeting of August.

The commission will consider a final draft budget at the
Aug. 13 meeting.

According to Tuesday’s Aug. 6&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08062024-612">meeting agend</a>a,
the budget includes several additions following the July 18 budget
hearing with county department heads.

Among those additions are funding for public works to hire
two additional employees, 48th Street and Vineyard and 270th
Avenue improvements to the road and bridge replacement program and funding for
Rural Opportunity Zone Program and the scholarship program for area high school
students.

In the agenda information provided to the commission, County
Administrator Darin Myers said the mill levy would slightly decrease under the current budget proposal.

In other business, the commission will review updated county
road design and construction standards, approve weight restrictions for several
county bridges and give the go-ahead for an engineering firm to begin negotiations for right-of-way acquisition for the bridge on 370th Avenue over Big
Creek south of Walker.

The county was awarded funding to replace the bridge through
the 2024 Off System Bridge Program from the Kansas Department of
Transportation.

Tuesday’s county commission meeting is set for 8:30 a.m. at
the County Administrative Center at 718 Main St. in Hays.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will consider putting the final
touches on the 2025 budget Tuesday at its first meeting of August.The commission will consider a final draft budget at the
Aug. 13 meeting.According to Tuesday’s Aug. 6&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08062024-612">meeting agend</a>a,
the budget includes several additions following the July 18 budget
hearing with county department heads.Among those additions are funding for public works to hire
two additional employees, 48th Street and Vineyard and 270th
Avenue improvements to the road and bridge replacement program and funding for
Rural Opportunity Zone Program and the scholarship program for area high school
students.In the agenda information provided to the commission, County
Administrator Darin Myers said the mill levy would slightly decrease under the current budget proposal.In other business, the commission will review updated county
road design and construction standards, approve weight restrictions for several
county bridges and give the go-ahead for an engineering firm to begin negotiations for right-of-way acquisition for the bridge on 370th Avenue over Big
Creek south of Walker.The county was awarded funding to replace the bridge through
the 2024 Off System Bridge Program from the Kansas Department of
Transportation.Tuesday’s county commission meeting is set for 8:30 a.m. at
the County Administrative Center at 718 Main St. in Hays.

Ellis County Commission in final stages of 2025 budget work

Correction: A comma was left out of the quote below that made it appear that Bryan Brady was the CFO of HaysMed. Bryan Brady is the vice president of physician practice administration and ancillary services.&nbsp;Michelle M. Beckner is the CFO. <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/about-us/#/administrative-team">See a complete list of the administrative staff HERE</a>.

&nbsp;"I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said. By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Several current and former doctors have come forward with criticism of the HaysMed administration.

Former HaysMed Dr. Wallace Michael Curry started a string of social media comments from concerned employees and patients after he shared his criticism of the HaysMed administration and the board for retaining CEO Edward Herrman.

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

Other doctors and staff have joined the discord, saying the hospital is being mismanaged and that it does not have the staff needed to provide quality care.

Four doctors have recently left the hospital, including Dr. Wallace Michael Curry, longtime OBGYNs Drs. Lee Hodny and Joel Fort, and oncologist Dr. Anthony Acursso.

HaysMed has imposed noncompete contracts with its doctors, so if the doctors want to leave, for all intents and purposes, they have to leave the state. All four of the physicians above have left the state.

A physician who did not want his name published said he was considering leaving the hospital due to the lack of leadership from the administration and inadequate staffing.

He said HaysMed is a great hospital, but the current administration is putting making money over patient care and its staff. He said the entire executive staff needed to be fired.

The physician said the administration has slashed his staff in half despite increased cases.&nbsp;

Veteran nurses are leaving because of the poor treatment and pay, he said.

The hospital is staffing wards with caregivers who barely speak English or are right out of school, he said.

As doctors and other medical staff leave the hospital, the doctor said it may not close but will lose its ability to provide key services.

HaysMed is filling gaps with traveling nurses and locum&nbsp;tenens, which are temporary physicians.&nbsp;

He said those temporary staff don't have the same relationship with their patients.

"The HaysMed people who are still here care so much," he said. "This is the public outcry."

&nbsp;A second Hays physician, who did not want his name published, also expressed concern about the hospital's direction.

He said he is also considering leaving the hospital.

"My biggest concern is that we are concentrating on the financial aspects when the care of the patient is not even second. It's third, fourth or fifth, even further down the line," he said.

"I am concerned that they are expecting much more revenue with less and less resources every day," he said.

Treatment that once took a week to schedule is now taking two or three weeks because the hospital has not been able to retain the staff to provide that treatment.

"We are talking about doubling and tripling time they have to wait for very sick and anxious people," he said.

His nursing staff also has been slashed even though his department is seeing more patients. He said nurses with specialized training have been replaced with nurses who do not have that special certification.

"The problem that we are having is when you have a nurse who is not certified and doesn't know our system, they don't know when bad is bad," he said.

"What ends up happening is you hire a nurse from the outside that has half the ability and costs twice the rate," he said.

He said it causes low morale among the permanent certified nurses because they already have issues with their pay, and the hospital is hiring someone for more with half the skills.

After a consultant observed and made recommendations to the hospital, the physicians were reprimanded for referring patients outside HaysMed for procedures despite the delays in treatment in the HaysMed system.

The doctors were also told they had to cut their clinic appointments from 30 minutes to 15 minutes.

"As a physician, I'm not going to let the buzzer roll over and say I'm not going to talk about this," he said. "We are going to spend the time that we need, which is going to put us 30 or 45 minutes or an hour behind. [Patients] are reasonably frustrated because they had to wait an hour."

"This is a conversation I have had with multiple other physicians. I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said.

The doctor said he has been bringing similar concerns to the administration for years and has been disregarded.

He said he wants to see leadership that is responsive to the medical staff's concerns and will be strong leaders.

"I think if you take care of patients, the financial aspect will take care of its self."

He added, "I can't continue to do what I love and what I think I do best without significant resources, and those resources come in the way of people. It comes in the way of nurses, CNAs, everything—from the people who help shovel the snow on a bad day to our highest administrative sites. We are in really dire, dire circumstances right now."

Dr. Curry sent the following comments to the Hays Post from an outside hospital administrator, who he said summed up his concerns.

I just wonder about your CEO and his credentials because some of the policies and attitudes he apparently has strike me as the opposite of what an educated administrator would likely have.

Any administrator should have some knowledge in human relations and should share the attitude that employees are NOT replaceable at any level.

It should be obvious to anyone in rural medicine that physicians are not easy to replace! More than that, any quality employees at any level or position are hard to find, and when we do find them, it is important that we keep them.

Any good CEO and administration would implement a program to make sure that all employees feel valued. This, in turn, should help all employees make their patients feel valued.

This is the approach of an educated and intelligent CEO. Any administrator that tells employees that they can be replaced, should be the one replaced!

Hays Dr. Don Tillman is not employed by HaysMed but said he has been sending letters to the board expressing his concern about the hospital's leadership and direction. His letter can be read on the Hays Post <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0396c2ea-565d-482c-92f7-12bbb547acf7">HERE</a>.

Correction: A comma was left out of the quote below that made it appear that Bryan Brady was the CFO of HaysMed. Bryan Brady is the vice president of physician practice administration and ancillary services.&nbsp;Michelle M. Beckner is the CFO. <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/about-us/#/administrative-team">See a complete list of the administrative staff HERE</a>. &nbsp;"I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said. By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSeveral current and former doctors have come forward with criticism of the HaysMed administration.Former HaysMed Dr. Wallace Michael Curry started a string of social media comments from concerned employees and patients after he shared his criticism of the HaysMed administration and the board for retaining CEO Edward Herrman.<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/9b9e56ce-abb6-46b3-b2de-6eb1ce011e7a">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed issues statement on financial losses.</a>Other doctors and staff have joined the discord, saying the hospital is being mismanaged and that it does not have the staff needed to provide quality care.Four doctors have recently left the hospital, including Dr. Wallace Michael Curry, longtime OBGYNs Drs. Lee Hodny and Joel Fort, and oncologist Dr. Anthony Acursso.HaysMed has imposed noncompete contracts with its doctors, so if the doctors want to leave, for all intents and purposes, they have to leave the state. All four of the physicians above have left the state.A physician who did not want his name published said he was considering leaving the hospital due to the lack of leadership from the administration and inadequate staffing.He said HaysMed is a great hospital, but the current administration is putting making money over patient care and its staff. He said the entire executive staff needed to be fired.The physician said the administration has slashed his staff in half despite increased cases.&nbsp;Veteran nurses are leaving because of the poor treatment and pay, he said.The hospital is staffing wards with caregivers who barely speak English or are right out of school, he said.As doctors and other medical staff leave the hospital, the doctor said it may not close but will lose its ability to provide key services.HaysMed is filling gaps with traveling nurses and locum&nbsp;tenens, which are temporary physicians.&nbsp;He said those temporary staff don't have the same relationship with their patients."The HaysMed people who are still here care so much," he said. "This is the public outcry."&nbsp;A second Hays physician, who did not want his name published, also expressed concern about the hospital's direction.He said he is also considering leaving the hospital."My biggest concern is that we are concentrating on the financial aspects when the care of the patient is not even second. It's third, fourth or fifth, even further down the line," he said."I am concerned that they are expecting much more revenue with less and less resources every day," he said.Treatment that once took a week to schedule is now taking two or three weeks because the hospital has not been able to retain the staff to provide that treatment."We are talking about doubling and tripling time they have to wait for very sick and anxious people," he said.His nursing staff also has been slashed even though his department is seeing more patients. He said nurses with specialized training have been replaced with nurses who do not have that special certification."The problem that we are having is when you have a nurse who is not certified and doesn't know our system, they don't know when bad is bad," he said."What ends up happening is you hire a nurse from the outside that has half the ability and costs twice the rate," he said.He said it causes low morale among the permanent certified nurses because they already have issues with their pay, and the hospital is hiring someone for more with half the skills.After a consultant observed and made recommendations to the hospital, the physicians were reprimanded for referring patients outside HaysMed for procedures despite the delays in treatment in the HaysMed system.The doctors were also told they had to cut their clinic appointments from 30 minutes to 15 minutes."As a physician, I'm not going to let the buzzer roll over and say I'm not going to talk about this," he said. "We are going to spend the time that we need, which is going to put us 30 or 45 minutes or an hour behind. [Patients] are reasonably frustrated because they had to wait an hour.""This is a conversation I have had with multiple other physicians. I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said.The doctor said he has been bringing similar concerns to the administration for years and has been disregarded.He said he wants to see leadership that is responsive to the medical staff's concerns and will be strong leaders."I think if you take care of patients, the financial aspect will take care of its self."He added, "I can't continue to do what I love and what I think I do best without significant resources, and those resources come in the way of people. It comes in the way of nurses, CNAs, everything—from the people who help shovel the snow on a bad day to our highest administrative sites. We are in really dire, dire circumstances right now."Dr. Curry sent the following comments to the Hays Post from an outside hospital administrator, who he said summed up his concerns.I just wonder about your CEO and his credentials because some of the policies and attitudes he apparently has strike me as the opposite of what an educated administrator would likely have.Any administrator should have some knowledge in human relations and should share the attitude that employees are NOT replaceable at any level.It should be obvious to anyone in rural medicine that physicians are not easy to replace! More than that, any quality employees at any level or position are hard to find, and when we do find them, it is important that we keep them.Any good CEO and administration would implement a program to make sure that all employees feel valued. This, in turn, should help all employees make their patients feel valued.This is the approach of an educated and intelligent CEO. Any administrator that tells employees that they can be replaced, should be the one replaced!Hays Dr. Don Tillman is not employed by HaysMed but said he has been sending letters to the board expressing his concern about the hospital's leadership and direction. His letter can be read on the Hays Post <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0396c2ea-565d-482c-92f7-12bbb547acf7">HERE</a>.

Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed

BUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS is thrilled to announce a special treat for families attending this year’s Herzogfest celebration in Victoria! Clifford The Big Red Dog will be making a special appearance on Saturday, August 10th, from 9 AM to 11 AM.

This exciting event promises a memorable morning for children and families. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Clifford, take photos with him, and go home with a FREE book and fun craft.

"We are excited to bring Clifford The Big Red Dog to Herzogfest in Victoria," said Haley Gagnon, event coordinator at Smoky Hills PBS. "It's a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, create lasting memories, and enjoy the magic that Clifford brings."

Smoky Hills PBS is dedicated to providing enriching and educational experiences for our community. We invite everyone to join us for this special day and make the most of the fun-filled activities planned for all ages.

For more information, please visit SmokyHillsPBS.org.

· Location: Honey Braun Park - Herzogfest, Victoria, KS

Family Fun Day is an educational and entertaining event that Smoky Hills PBS puts on approximately 4 times a year across Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS brings a special PBS character to visit and FREE books and educational gifts are distributed to those children in attendance.

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS is available over the air, on many cable systems, DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and Dish Network, HULU + LIVE TV, and YouTube TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices and is also available to stream by clicking here: video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream. More information on Smoky Hills PBS and its programs and projects are available at SmokyHillsPBS.org or by calling 1-800-337-4788.

SubmittedBUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS is thrilled to announce a special treat for families attending this year’s Herzogfest celebration in Victoria! Clifford The Big Red Dog will be making a special appearance on Saturday, August 10th, from 9 AM to 11 AM.This exciting event promises a memorable morning for children and families. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Clifford, take photos with him, and go home with a FREE book and fun craft."We are excited to bring Clifford The Big Red Dog to Herzogfest in Victoria," said Haley Gagnon, event coordinator at Smoky Hills PBS. "It's a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, create lasting memories, and enjoy the magic that Clifford brings."Smoky Hills PBS is dedicated to providing enriching and educational experiences for our community. We invite everyone to join us for this special day and make the most of the fun-filled activities planned for all ages.For more information, please visit SmokyHillsPBS.org.Event Details:· Date: Saturday, August 10, 2024· Time: 9 AM to 11 AM· Location: Honey Braun Park - Herzogfest, Victoria, KS· Cost: FreeFamily Fun Day is an educational and entertaining event that Smoky Hills PBS puts on approximately 4 times a year across Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS brings a special PBS character to visit and FREE books and educational gifts are distributed to those children in attendance.###Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS is available over the air, on many cable systems, DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and Dish Network, HULU + LIVE TV, and YouTube TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices and is also available to stream by clicking here: video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream. More information on Smoky Hills PBS and its programs and projects are available at SmokyHillsPBS.org or by calling 1-800-337-4788.

Clifford The Big Red Dog Coming to Herzogfest in Victoria

<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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 </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

Hays community service officer takes on badger

TOPEKA — The 2024 Kansas Association of Broadcasters Station Excellence Award winners were announced Monday.

There were 903 entries this year judged by Mississippi broadcasters.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Sports Play-by-Play — 1st Place Gerard Wellbrock,&nbsp;FHSU basketball, KJLS-FM

Public Affairs Program — 2nd&nbsp; Place Cristina Janney, Options, KAYS-AM/FM Excellence In Multimedia/Digital Storytelling&nbsp; — Honorable Mention Cristina Janney, Becky Kiser,&nbsp;Hospice Care in NW Kansas, KAYS-AM/FM

Excellence In Multimedia/Digital Promotional or Commercial Announcements — 2nd Place Theresa Trapp, Cash Grab, KHAZ-FM

Morning Show - 2nd Place Jeff Leiker, The Morning Blend, KAYS AM/FM

<a href="https://mcusercontent.com/db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f/files/153d8c1a-b1cb-5712-b061-aa6ce744233f/2024_Station_Awards_Winners.pdf?mc_cid=80ad493739&amp;mc_eid=1848d3c4e0">View Complete List of Winners Here</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://kab.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f&amp;id=610d25d5ea&amp;e=1848d3c4e0"></a>KAB will recognize this year's winners with a Celestial Celebration at our Station Awards Dinner during the KAB Annual Convention in Wichita, October 21.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>KABTOPEKA — The 2024 Kansas Association of Broadcasters Station Excellence Award winners were announced Monday.There were 903 entries this year judged by Mississippi broadcasters.&nbsp;Hays Eagle Media winners are:MEDIUM MARKET RADIO&nbsp;Sports Play-by-Play — 1st Place Gerard Wellbrock,&nbsp;FHSU basketball, KJLS-FMPublic Affairs Program — 2nd&nbsp; Place Cristina Janney, Options, KAYS-AM/FM Excellence In Multimedia/Digital Storytelling&nbsp; — Honorable Mention Cristina Janney, Becky Kiser,&nbsp;Hospice Care in NW Kansas, KAYS-AM/FMExcellence In Multimedia/Digital Promotional or Commercial Announcements — 2nd Place Theresa Trapp, Cash Grab, KHAZ-FMMorning Show - 2nd Place Jeff Leiker, The Morning Blend, KAYS AM/FM <a href="https://mcusercontent.com/db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f/files/153d8c1a-b1cb-5712-b061-aa6ce744233f/2024_Station_Awards_Winners.pdf?mc_cid=80ad493739&amp;mc_eid=1848d3c4e0">View Complete List of Winners Here</a><a target="_blank" href="https://kab.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f&amp;id=610d25d5ea&amp;e=1848d3c4e0"></a>KAB will recognize this year's winners with a Celestial Celebration at our Station Awards Dinner during the KAB Annual Convention in Wichita, October 21.&nbsp;

Hays Eagle Media wins Kansas Association of Broadcasters awards for 2024

ELLIS — For the month of July 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 203 calls for service, conducted 38 traffic stops, and issued three traffic citations. Two out of the three citations were for speeding, with the highest alleged speed being 22mph over the posted speed limit.

The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in three adult arrests.

The following adults were arrested in July by the Ellis Police Department:

On 07/12/2024, Nathan Baker was arrested on suspicion of Domestic Battery. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

On 07/15/2024, Daniel Blackwood was arrested on suspicion of Violation of a Protection Order. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

On 07/29/2024, Robert Sanetta was arrested on an order to Arrest and Detain from NW KS Community Corrections. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

The City of Ellis is accepting applications for a career-minded individual who wants to serve the community by protecting citizens as a full-time entry level Police Officer or a lateral transfer Police Officer in a full-service 24-hour department. You can find a job description and application online at <a href="https://ellis.ks.us/contact-us/">www.ellis.ks.us</a> under the “Contact Us” tab.

Lastly, on August 12th, 2024 at 0800; the Ellis Police Department will be conducting active shooter training at the Old High School, 407 W. 10th. Officers will be training to take appropriate action in the event of an active shooter situation. There is no need for alarm or worry. This training is being conducted with great caution and we want to reiterate there is no danger to our community members. Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

As always, we are seeking photos to be used for these monthly reports. Please email them to me at asmith@cityofellisks.gov or message them to us via our Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment">https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment</a>

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 </figure>EPDELLIS — For the month of July 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 203 calls for service, conducted 38 traffic stops, and issued three traffic citations. Two out of the three citations were for speeding, with the highest alleged speed being 22mph over the posted speed limit.The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in three adult arrests.The following adults were arrested in July by the Ellis Police Department:On 07/12/2024, Nathan Baker was arrested on suspicion of Domestic Battery. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.On 07/15/2024, Daniel Blackwood was arrested on suspicion of Violation of a Protection Order. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.On 07/29/2024, Robert Sanetta was arrested on an order to Arrest and Detain from NW KS Community Corrections. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.The City of Ellis is accepting applications for a career-minded individual who wants to serve the community by protecting citizens as a full-time entry level Police Officer or a lateral transfer Police Officer in a full-service 24-hour department. You can find a job description and application online at <a href="https://ellis.ks.us/contact-us/">www.ellis.ks.us</a> under the “Contact Us” tab.Lastly, on August 12th, 2024 at 0800; the Ellis Police Department will be conducting active shooter training at the Old High School, 407 W. 10th. Officers will be training to take appropriate action in the event of an active shooter situation. There is no need for alarm or worry. This training is being conducted with great caution and we want to reiterate there is no danger to our community members. Please contact us with any questions or concerns.As always, we are seeking photos to be used for these monthly reports. Please email them to me at asmith@cityofellisks.gov or message them to us via our Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment">https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment</a>Thank you all for your support!-Chief Smith

Ellis Police Department activity report, July 2024

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 313 incidents July 28-Aug. 3, 2024, according to the activity report.

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Ellis County Sheriff Department activity log, July 28-Aug. 3, 2024

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Ellis County Jail bookings, July 29-Aug. 5, 2024

“Sorting out History,” a traveling exhibit designed to encourage discussions about racial stereotypes past and present, will open at the Hays Public Library on August 1. 

The display was made possible through a Humanities Kansas grant and is co-sponsored by the FHSU Department of History and Philosophy, Hays Public Library, and the FHSU College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

The display, which runs until Sept. 29, was created by the Kaufman Museum at Bethel College and includes vintage and contemporary objects readily found in thrift stores that include depictions of race and ethnicity.&nbsp;

FHSU history department graduate students are assisting with the exhibit installation.

Through interactives and guided discussions, visitors can consider whether these items should remain in circulation or be “sorted out” from the retail environment.

The “Sorting out History” exhibit can be traced back to 2014 when Humanities Kansas awarded a grant to the Kauffman Museum in North Newton for the development of its exhibition “Sorting out Race,” which used easily accessible thrift store items to explore themes of enduring stereotypes and racial imagery. The exhibit was well-received and has been shown at multiple national locations.

“The exhibit concept was a result of a conversation between the museum staff and a local thrift store owner who was seeing things come into her store that made her wonder if the materials were appropriate to sell in a retail shop or if they should be ‘sorted out’ and removed,” said Julie Mulvihill, executive director of Humanities Kansas.

Thanks to a “United We Stand” grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support opportunities in Kansas, exploring the complexities of American history, Humanities Kansas has created opportunities to consider the legacy of the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka Supreme Court Decision, now celebrating its 70th&nbsp;anniversary, through public programs, a national exhibition and the four-stop tour of “Sorting Out Race.”

“The landmark case, Brown v. Board of Education, was brought to the Supreme Court by a group of thoughtful black parents right down the road in Topeka, Kansas,” said Kim Perez, FHSU associate professor of history. “And the court’s decision changed the nation's educational landscape.”

Perez said that Kansans should be proud of this legacy but also consider the obstacles that people of color still face today.

“The ‘Sorting Out Race’ exhibit and the associated speaker series will help Hays residents to discuss these obstacles by examining everyday items you might find in the local thrift store,” she said. “We hope that the people who visit the exhibit will consider the impact that stereotype has on our neighbors.”

The exhibition, Mulvihill pointed out, showcases many items created in the mid-20th&nbsp;century after the 1954 case.

“The Brown v. Board case changed schools but didn’t immediately change attitudes,” Mulvihill said. “Visitors who go to the ‘Sorting Out Race’ exhibition at the Hays Public Library can tour the exhibit and choose for themselves what they would ‘sort out’ and what they wouldn’t.”

“Providing these types of opportunities for Kansans is an important way to honor the legacy of the Brown v. Board case.”

To build on the themes of the exhibit, a series of lectures will address racial stereotypes:

• August 27 at 5:30 p.m. (Fox Theatre), reception. At 6:30 p.m., Dr. Alex Red Corn will present "Which Box Should I Check? American Indians, Stereotypes, Imagery, and Educational Systems." Following his discussion, attendees are invited to the Hays Public Library to view the exhibit. The reception is free and open to the public.

•Sept. 12 at 6 p.m., (Hays Public Library): "The Power of Imagery and the Civil Rights Experience" by Ann Dean.

• September 18 at 6 p.m., (Hays Public Library): Unpacking Stereotypes: A Journey Through Mexican American Representation in Thrift Finds and Media” by Dr. Marco Macias.&nbsp;

• Sept. 24 at 6 p.m., (Hays Public Library):&nbsp;Brown v. Board of Education Distance Learning Program.

For more information about the display, visit:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0Qsur1AVycJzW1l7RWh55o64UZQi7fTT62po6QxOZu2omcZ9FqURyeCI7eaIYBfuZyDR4ZsZ4EvO05SxVUvvaU9DTg7H5mWtkIUZyymhb1E4LwDu_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOcLxAAorNtDSCFyN4vPV5spYH1tsl-2BIwE9AhCQCrqKwrQNuioY50wKe-2Flk5bKPrk8-2F27rmdSuuxEtsAjinMY-2FXtlcVHyiLLlGy3OlF30UXWYykbreSl7BTb967eIpMiH52s2uw2PDUxqQrcl2SHpfxAoCLprWzj7QQZZsn8LNVX6ikual7ae-2FTJSAO5uS2ai0fVpkTVfa2qMfeiNpCvmDPuOGvH9syeCjlZTOItamCcqEOSlfhEaGW95rxRJ-2FA2Xx">https://kauffmanmuseum.org/exhibitions/travelingexhibits/sortingoutrace/</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722373684111.jpeg" alt="Trevor Yocum, an FHSU history graduate student from St. Mary’s, assists with setting up the “Sorting Out History” exhibit at the Hays Public Library. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Trevor Yocum, an FHSU history graduate student from St. Mary’s, assists with setting up the “Sorting Out History” exhibit at the Hays Public Library. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University Communications“Sorting out History,” a traveling exhibit designed to encourage discussions about racial stereotypes past and present, will open at the Hays Public Library on August 1. The display was made possible through a Humanities Kansas grant and is co-sponsored by the FHSU Department of History and Philosophy, Hays Public Library, and the FHSU College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.The display, which runs until Sept. 29, was created by the Kaufman Museum at Bethel College and includes vintage and contemporary objects readily found in thrift stores that include depictions of race and ethnicity.&nbsp;FHSU history department graduate students are assisting with the exhibit installation.Through interactives and guided discussions, visitors can consider whether these items should remain in circulation or be “sorted out” from the retail environment.The “Sorting out History” exhibit can be traced back to 2014 when Humanities Kansas awarded a grant to the Kauffman Museum in North Newton for the development of its exhibition “Sorting out Race,” which used easily accessible thrift store items to explore themes of enduring stereotypes and racial imagery. The exhibit was well-received and has been shown at multiple national locations.“The exhibit concept was a result of a conversation between the museum staff and a local thrift store owner who was seeing things come into her store that made her wonder if the materials were appropriate to sell in a retail shop or if they should be ‘sorted out’ and removed,” said Julie Mulvihill, executive director of Humanities Kansas.Thanks to a “United We Stand” grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support opportunities in Kansas, exploring the complexities of American history, Humanities Kansas has created opportunities to consider the legacy of the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka Supreme Court Decision, now celebrating its 70th&nbsp;anniversary, through public programs, a national exhibition and the four-stop tour of “Sorting Out Race.”“The landmark case, Brown v. Board of Education, was brought to the Supreme Court by a group of thoughtful black parents right down the road in Topeka, Kansas,” said Kim Perez, FHSU associate professor of history. “And the court’s decision changed the nation's educational landscape.”Perez said that Kansans should be proud of this legacy but also consider the obstacles that people of color still face today.“The ‘Sorting Out Race’ exhibit and the associated speaker series will help Hays residents to discuss these obstacles by examining everyday items you might find in the local thrift store,” she said. “We hope that the people who visit the exhibit will consider the impact that stereotype has on our neighbors.”The exhibition, Mulvihill pointed out, showcases many items created in the mid-20th&nbsp;century after the 1954 case.“The Brown v. Board case changed schools but didn’t immediately change attitudes,” Mulvihill said. “Visitors who go to the ‘Sorting Out Race’ exhibition at the Hays Public Library can tour the exhibit and choose for themselves what they would ‘sort out’ and what they wouldn’t.”“Providing these types of opportunities for Kansans is an important way to honor the legacy of the Brown v. Board case.”To build on the themes of the exhibit, a series of lectures will address racial stereotypes:• August 27 at 5:30 p.m. (Fox Theatre), reception. At 6:30 p.m., Dr. Alex Red Corn will present "Which Box Should I Check? American Indians, Stereotypes, Imagery, and Educational Systems." Following his discussion, attendees are invited to the Hays Public Library to view the exhibit. The reception is free and open to the public.•Sept. 12 at 6 p.m., (Hays Public Library): "The Power of Imagery and the Civil Rights Experience" by Ann Dean.• September 18 at 6 p.m., (Hays Public Library): Unpacking Stereotypes: A Journey Through Mexican American Representation in Thrift Finds and Media” by Dr. Marco Macias.&nbsp;• Sept. 24 at 6 p.m., (Hays Public Library):&nbsp;Brown v. Board of Education Distance Learning Program.For more information about the display, visit:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0Qsur1AVycJzW1l7RWh55o64UZQi7fTT62po6QxOZu2omcZ9FqURyeCI7eaIYBfuZyDR4ZsZ4EvO05SxVUvvaU9DTg7H5mWtkIUZyymhb1E4LwDu_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOcLxAAorNtDSCFyN4vPV5spYH1tsl-2BIwE9AhCQCrqKwrQNuioY50wKe-2Flk5bKPrk8-2F27rmdSuuxEtsAjinMY-2FXtlcVHyiLLlGy3OlF30UXWYykbreSl7BTb967eIpMiH52s2uw2PDUxqQrcl2SHpfxAoCLprWzj7QQZZsn8LNVX6ikual7ae-2FTJSAO5uS2ai0fVpkTVfa2qMfeiNpCvmDPuOGvH9syeCjlZTOItamCcqEOSlfhEaGW95rxRJ-2FA2Xx">https://kauffmanmuseum.org/exhibitions/travelingexhibits/sortingoutrace/</a>&nbsp;

Exploring racial imagery: 'Sorting Out History' exhibit comes to Hays

Hays, Kansas proudly announces its official designation as a Purple Heart City. 

This prestigious recognition honors the bravery and sacrifice of the sons and daughters of our community who were awarded the Purpose Heart Medal. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

A public ceremony to mark the occasion is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Hays Veterans Memorial Park located near 15th Street and Haney Drive, just off Canterbury Drive. 

City officials, Purple Heart Medal recipients, and veterans from the community will be present. The public is invited to attend.

The Purple Heart City designation was a combined effort of the Hays Veterans Service Organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Marine League, Vietnam Veterans Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and The Society of 40 Men and 8 Horses.

This Purple Heart City designation demonstrates our community’s commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the profound sacrifices made by our military heroes. 

Signs announcing the designation will be posted alongside six different roads entering Hays. 

By becoming a Purple Heart City, Hays joins a distinguished group of communities nationwide dedicated to honoring Purple Heart Medal recipients.

WHEREAS, the City of Hays, founded in 1867, was named after Fort Hays (originally named Fort Fletcher), which was in turn named for Alexander Hays, a Union General killed during the Civil War; and

WHEREAS, the City of Hays has a long military history and proud tradition of supporting the military and its veteran population; and

WHEREAS, the Purple Heart Medal was the first award made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded in combat or have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms being killed in action against a declared enemy of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, Hays has a large veteran population with many of its veterans being Purple Heart recipients; and

WHEREAS, we appreciate the sacrifices our Purple Heart recipients have made in defending our freedom and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the support they have earned;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SHAUN MUSIL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS, on behalf of the Hays City Commission, do hereby recognize Hays, Kansas, as a Purple Heart City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698788281705.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays, Kansas proudly announces its official designation as a Purple Heart City. This prestigious recognition honors the bravery and sacrifice of the sons and daughters of our community who were awarded the Purpose Heart Medal. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.A public ceremony to mark the occasion is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Hays Veterans Memorial Park located near 15th Street and Haney Drive, just off Canterbury Drive. City officials, Purple Heart Medal recipients, and veterans from the community will be present. The public is invited to attend.The Purple Heart City designation was a combined effort of the Hays Veterans Service Organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Marine League, Vietnam Veterans Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and The Society of 40 Men and 8 Horses.This Purple Heart City designation demonstrates our community’s commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the profound sacrifices made by our military heroes. Signs announcing the designation will be posted alongside six different roads entering Hays. By becoming a Purple Heart City, Hays joins a distinguished group of communities nationwide dedicated to honoring Purple Heart Medal recipients.PROCLAMATION:To the People of Hays, Greetings.WHEREAS, the City of Hays, founded in 1867, was named after Fort Hays (originally named Fort Fletcher), which was in turn named for Alexander Hays, a Union General killed during the Civil War; andWHEREAS, the City of Hays has a long military history and proud tradition of supporting the military and its veteran population; andWHEREAS, the Purple Heart Medal was the first award made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded in combat or have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms being killed in action against a declared enemy of the United States of America; andWHEREAS, Hays has a large veteran population with many of its veterans being Purple Heart recipients; andWHEREAS, we appreciate the sacrifices our Purple Heart recipients have made in defending our freedom and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the support they have earned;NOW, THEREFORE, I, SHAUN MUSIL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS, on behalf of the Hays City Commission, do hereby recognize Hays, Kansas, as a Purple Heart City.

Public invited to Hays' 'Purple Heart City' designation ceremony Wednesday

Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital announces new service

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIf you’re the average American, you spend most of the day at work, and finding time to achieve any personal goals can seem daunting. In your “free time,” you may have kids to take care of, dinner to put on the table, or countless chores to get done. At the end of the day, you might not have much energy left to work on yourself.One of your personal goals may be related to improving health and getting active, and as you already know, this is difficult to achieve amid a busy life. So, what if you took a different approach?What if you could fit physical activity into your workday without sacrificing hours of your free time?Here are a few nontraditional tips to sneak in physical activity throughout the workday:· One simple approach is to adjust your commute. Instead of driving, try bicycling. Those who regularly bicycle to work have a substantially lower risk of heart disease and obesity.· Take advantage of webinars and virtual meetings. Since your office door is likely closed in such meetings, you won’t look goofy marching in place, stretching, or using a pair of dumbbells.· Invest in a walking pad that the whole office can utilize. A walking pad is a small treadmill that is suitable for a standing desk. Slowly walk while you work instead of sitting. This can make a tremendous difference in your activity level!· Get moving over your lunch break. One of my favorite ways to move more throughout the day is to walk for 20- 30 minutes at noon. This little brain break gets blood flowing and energizes me throughout the afternoon. To save time over my lunch, I prep leftovers or a simple meal the evening before. If walking isn’t for you, a short resistance workout with bands, dumbbells, or body weight is another option!· Walking meetings are an alternative way to brainstorm topics. In fact, studies show that walking engages parts of the brain that allow you to be innovative! So, next time you meet with a coworker, try walking and talking out the details.A workplace that encourages healthy behaviors will help you achieve your wellness goals. Plus, it also has the potential to boost the prosperity of the business you work for. Studies show that health-oriented workplaces see increased productivity rates, lower healthcare costs, and reduced staff turnover.Simple habits like sharing healthy foods or regular walking meetings can tremendously impact physical fitness and overall health. I encourage you to build a culture of wellness in the workplace by making a few small changes to your day. You might just be surprised by the results you see.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.