WAKEENEY - Kaydence Grebowiec, Plainville High School, and Marissa Reever, Otis-Bison High School, attended the 46th annual Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp from July 14-20, 2023. The leadership camp was held near Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and hosted 43 student leaders from Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Wyoming, sponsored by 25 participating cooperatives.&nbsp;

Western Cooperative Electric  selected Grebowiec and Reever through their annual youth contest, where high school juniors must write an essay, take an exam, and be interviewed by a panel of judges. The highest-scoring contestants received scholarships and had the first choice to attend Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp or the Washington D.C. Youth Tour.&nbsp;

During the camp, Grebowiec and Reever learned how an electric cooperative is organized and operated by developing a model-cooperative with their fellow students, empowering the campers to elect a board of directors, appoint a general manager, establish committees, and attend daily membership meetings.

Camp participants also attended educational seminars on leadership, online reputation management, conflict management, and co-op careers, in addition to presentations on high voltage electricity, raptors, and avian protection with HawkQuest, and a tour of the Craig Power Station and the Yampa Valley Electric community solar array.&nbsp;

Along with its professional development programs, camp included a visit to Mount Werner and downtown Steamboat Springs, white-water rafting on the Colorado River, and other fun activities such as a volleyball tournament, swimming, a talent show, and a dance.&nbsp;

At the conclusion of the leadership camp, Grebowiec reflected on her time in Colorado. "Being out of my comfort zone this week has been the most valuable experience to me. I talked to so many new people, and it was a lot of fun to put myself out there and make new friends."&nbsp;

Likewise, Reever was amazed by her experience at camp. "I had no idea how many people I would meet and become friends with. I also thought touring the power plant was very impactful. It really puts into perspective how co-ops work and the environment they work in."&nbsp;

"Western Cooperative Electric is proud to continue our sponsorship of our co-op's student leaders at the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp," said Nolan Numrich, Western's assistant general manager. "It is an honor to help provide students opportunities to grow in their leadership potential and develop the knowledge to further engage in our cooperative community."&nbsp;

Western Cooperative sponsors trips for four students each year. 

For more information on how to attend/send students to camp, contact Nolan Numrich at <a href="mailto:nolann@westerncoop.com" target="_blank">nolann@westerncoop.com</a> or follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WesternCoopElectric">Western's Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;

Western Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney, Kansas. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across western and central Kansas.

For more information about Western visit <a href="https://usc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/www.westerncoop.com" target="_blank">www.westerncoop.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692192222830.jpeg" alt="Marissa Reever (left) and Kaydence Grebowiec were representatives of Western Cooperative Electric at the 2023 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp held each summer near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Students learn about the co-op business model, reputation and conflict management and more. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Marissa Reever (left) and Kaydence Grebowiec were representatives of Western Cooperative Electric at the 2023 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp held each summer near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Students learn about the co-op business model, reputation and conflict management and more. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseWAKEENEY - Kaydence Grebowiec, Plainville High School, and Marissa Reever, Otis-Bison High School, attended the 46th annual Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp from July 14-20, 2023. The leadership camp was held near Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and hosted 43 student leaders from Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Wyoming, sponsored by 25 participating cooperatives.&nbsp;Western Cooperative Electric selected Grebowiec and Reever through their annual youth contest, where high school juniors must write an essay, take an exam, and be interviewed by a panel of judges. The highest-scoring contestants received scholarships and had the first choice to attend Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp or the Washington D.C. Youth Tour.&nbsp;During the camp, Grebowiec and Reever learned how an electric cooperative is organized and operated by developing a model-cooperative with their fellow students, empowering the campers to elect a board of directors, appoint a general manager, establish committees, and attend daily membership meetings.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692192266888.jpeg" alt="Kaydence Grebowiec got a chance to get up close with a bald eagle during the HawkQuest raptor and avian protection presentation. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kaydence Grebowiec got a chance to get up close with a bald eagle during the HawkQuest raptor and avian protection presentation. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Camp participants also attended educational seminars on leadership, online reputation management, conflict management, and co-op careers, in addition to presentations on high voltage electricity, raptors, and avian protection with HawkQuest, and a tour of the Craig Power Station and the Yampa Valley Electric community solar array.&nbsp;Along with its professional development programs, camp included a visit to Mount Werner and downtown Steamboat Springs, white-water rafting on the Colorado River, and other fun activities such as a volleyball tournament, swimming, a talent show, and a dance.&nbsp;At the conclusion of the leadership camp, Grebowiec reflected on her time in Colorado. "Being out of my comfort zone this week has been the most valuable experience to me. I talked to so many new people, and it was a lot of fun to put myself out there and make new friends."&nbsp;Likewise, Reever was amazed by her experience at camp. "I had no idea how many people I would meet and become friends with. I also thought touring the power plant was very impactful. It really puts into perspective how co-ops work and the environment they work in."&nbsp;"Western Cooperative Electric is proud to continue our sponsorship of our co-op's student leaders at the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp," said Nolan Numrich, Western's assistant general manager. "It is an honor to help provide students opportunities to grow in their leadership potential and develop the knowledge to further engage in our cooperative community."&nbsp;Western Cooperative sponsors trips for four students each year. For more information on how to attend/send students to camp, contact Nolan Numrich at <a href="mailto:nolann@westerncoop.com" target="_blank">nolann@westerncoop.com</a> or follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WesternCoopElectric">Western's Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;Western Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney, Kansas. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across western and central Kansas. For more information about Western visit <a href="https://usc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/www.westerncoop.com" target="_blank">www.westerncoop.com</a>.&nbsp;

Western Cooperative Electric students attend Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp   

Pre-emergence herbicides with residual activity are an important component of high-yielding cropping systems. They are used less frequently in wheat production compared to other cropping systems in Kansas, but residual herbicides applied prior to wheat emergence can be part of a good weed management system in wheat production.

Most residual herbicides labeled for pre-emergence application in wheat are Group 2 (ALS-inhibiting) herbicides, which are associated with herbicide-resistant populations of kochia, marestail (horseweed), bushy wallflower, flixweed, henbit, and brome species in Kansas. Products in Groups 14 (the PPO-inhibiting herbicides) and 15 (the long-chain fatty acid-inhibiting herbicides) are also labeled; however, they are generally more dependent on rainfall for activation than the Group 2 herbicides.

Herbicides without residual activity may be applied with or without residual herbicides in the weeks prior to planting wheat. Older products include the Group 2 herbicides Amber, Olympus, and Pre-Pare, as well as Group 4 (plant growth regulating) herbicides like 2,4-D, dicamba, or fluroxypyr. It is especially important to know planting interval restrictions for Group 4 herbicides, which range from 10 to 45 days.

When selecting pre-emergence herbicides for use in wheat production, keep in mind that many of these products are also labeled for use in emerged wheat. Unless using a planned split application, avoid repeated use of products from the same herbicide group to slow the development of herbicide-resistant weed populations in your fields.

To see a handy table that list the selected herbicides for pre-emergence or pre-plant applications in winter wheat. Which shows the herbicide group, application timing and comments/tips on application, go to our web site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under hot topics.

Field bindweed can be difficult to control

Field bindweed is a particularly troublesome weed to control. 

In a 12-year experiment conducted at the Agricultural Research Center - Hays, field bindweed reduced wheat yield by 2 to 50%. Management of this weed during wheat establishment is important because field bindweed continues to grow until temperatures drop below 20°F.

The herbicides most commonly recommended for field bindweed control include various formulations of 2,4-D, dicamba, and glyphosate. Dicamba tends to provide greater control for fall applications compared to 2,4-D or glyphosate, especially if plants are drought-stressed. 

Another commonly used product is Facet (quinclorac). It is most effective when applied just before the first killing frost. Other herbicides that are labeled for fall application to control or suppress field bindweed in wheat include Affinity, Aim, and Cimarron.

A single herbicide application will not achieve satisfactory control of field bindweed. It will take multiple years of herbicide applications to deplete the energy stored in the root system and control an established infestation.

For additional information, see the “<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/Item.aspx?catId=236&amp;pubId=19360">2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, and Noncropland</a>” guide available online, or check with your local K-State Research and Extension office for a paper copy.

The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. 

Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Pre-emergence herbicides with residual activity are an important component of high-yielding cropping systems. They are used less frequently in wheat production compared to other cropping systems in Kansas, but residual herbicides applied prior to wheat emergence can be part of a good weed management system in wheat production.Most residual herbicides labeled for pre-emergence application in wheat are Group 2 (ALS-inhibiting) herbicides, which are associated with herbicide-resistant populations of kochia, marestail (horseweed), bushy wallflower, flixweed, henbit, and brome species in Kansas. Products in Groups 14 (the PPO-inhibiting herbicides) and 15 (the long-chain fatty acid-inhibiting herbicides) are also labeled; however, they are generally more dependent on rainfall for activation than the Group 2 herbicides.Herbicides without residual activity may be applied with or without residual herbicides in the weeks prior to planting wheat. Older products include the Group 2 herbicides Amber, Olympus, and Pre-Pare, as well as Group 4 (plant growth regulating) herbicides like 2,4-D, dicamba, or fluroxypyr. It is especially important to know planting interval restrictions for Group 4 herbicides, which range from 10 to 45 days.When selecting pre-emergence herbicides for use in wheat production, keep in mind that many of these products are also labeled for use in emerged wheat. Unless using a planned split application, avoid repeated use of products from the same herbicide group to slow the development of herbicide-resistant weed populations in your fields.To see a handy table that list the selected herbicides for pre-emergence or pre-plant applications in winter wheat. Which shows the herbicide group, application timing and comments/tips on application, go to our web site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under hot topics.Field bindweed can be difficult to controlField bindweed is a particularly troublesome weed to control. In a 12-year experiment conducted at the Agricultural Research Center - Hays, field bindweed reduced wheat yield by 2 to 50%. Management of this weed during wheat establishment is important because field bindweed continues to grow until temperatures drop below 20°F.The herbicides most commonly recommended for field bindweed control include various formulations of 2,4-D, dicamba, and glyphosate. Dicamba tends to provide greater control for fall applications compared to 2,4-D or glyphosate, especially if plants are drought-stressed. Another commonly used product is Facet (quinclorac). It is most effective when applied just before the first killing frost. Other herbicides that are labeled for fall application to control or suppress field bindweed in wheat include Affinity, Aim, and Cimarron.A single herbicide application will not achieve satisfactory control of field bindweed. It will take multiple years of herbicide applications to deplete the energy stored in the root system and control an established infestation.For additional information, see the “<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/Item.aspx?catId=236&amp;pubId=19360">2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, and Noncropland</a>” guide available online, or check with your local K-State Research and Extension office for a paper copy.The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.Stacy Campbell is a crop production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Pre-emergence herbicides in wheat

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692385208852.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 SHELBY SPREIER K-State Research and Extension

MANHATTAN – As drought continues to impact farms in many parts of Kansas, a Kansas State University official says researchers are working continually to provide solutions to the state’s water challenges.

Susan Metzger, director of strategic multidisciplinary program development and the director of the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment (KCARE), calls the university’s work “extensive,” saying it is the product of K-State’s “prominent role in irrigation and water use research in Kansas.”

“Kansas has about three million acres of irrigated land supporting agriculture, our largest industry. We are facing a changing climate that could result in very different weather patterns for our state, and it’s critical for us to understand how to conserve our most important natural resource while still using it to benefit our farmers and all those that benefit from Kansas agriculture,” Metzger said.

She adds that the diversity of water resources is abundant in Kansas. The eastern side of the state typically receives more than 40 inches of precipitation in an average year, while the western part of the state is very dry. Without the abundant rainfall, those in western Kansas mainly rely on the Ogallala-High Plains Aquifer for their water supplies.

The Ogallala Aquifer underlies eight states, including Kansas. It is the largest underground reservoir in the United States and plays a crucial role in sustaining agriculture, economies and communities in the region.

“The problem is that the Ogallala, despite being mind-bogglingly vast, is a finite resource. We’re using it faster than it can replenish. That’s why K-State’s work in irrigation technology and other water-related research is so important,” Metzger said.

The research team at the Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City has been working on many different projects, such as implementing deficit irrigation management, improving water efficiency using various irrigation technologies, creating advanced irrigation scheduling systems, and studying alternative crops for a water-limited environment, like cotton.

“One of the reasons we are looking at cotton is because it is drought resistant, or at least doesn’t need a lot of water compared to other crops grown in southwest Kansas,” said Jonathan Aguilar, a water resources engineer at the Southwest Research-Extension Center.

He said current research indicates that a non-traditional crop like cotton can be grown in Kansas, and it can be profitable.

Mezger said this “out-of-the-box" approach to big issues can lead to successful research solutions.

“One of the most compelling things about the work our scientists are doing is that they are not limiting their work to the lab or even the experimental field,” she said. “K-State researchers are demonstrating the capacity of these technologies on working farms with Kansas farmers. They are also forming partnerships with sociologists to examine the perceptions behind water use in our region, so that we can understand not just the scientific state of the aquifer, but the cultural significance of the Ogallala as well.”

The work of K-State scientists and extension specialists has a positive impact on Kansas residents, according to Metzger. A recent K-State study determined that Kansas producers have a very different view of water use and the Ogallala Aquifer than they did 35 years ago. The study indicated that, today, many producers believe in the importance of conserving groundwater. 

“The communities and economy of western Kansas represent the heart of what stands to be gained – or lost – based on how resilient our agricultural industries, infrastructure and supply chains can be to climate and water related risks,” she said.

“Conserving and extending the future of our water resources will require multidisciplinary research and outreach and educating the next generation of water and natural resource professionals. As the state’s land-grant university, K-State is here to meet that need.”

More information on work being done at K-State regarding water conservation and related issues is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692393394208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SHELBY SPREIER K-State Research and ExtensionMANHATTAN – As drought continues to impact farms in many parts of Kansas, a Kansas State University official says researchers are working continually to provide solutions to the state’s water challenges.Susan Metzger, director of strategic multidisciplinary program development and the director of the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment (KCARE), calls the university’s work “extensive,” saying it is the product of K-State’s “prominent role in irrigation and water use research in Kansas.”“Kansas has about three million acres of irrigated land supporting agriculture, our largest industry. We are facing a changing climate that could result in very different weather patterns for our state, and it’s critical for us to understand how to conserve our most important natural resource while still using it to benefit our farmers and all those that benefit from Kansas agriculture,” Metzger said.She adds that the diversity of water resources is abundant in Kansas. The eastern side of the state typically receives more than 40 inches of precipitation in an average year, while the western part of the state is very dry. Without the abundant rainfall, those in western Kansas mainly rely on the Ogallala-High Plains Aquifer for their water supplies.The Ogallala Aquifer underlies eight states, including Kansas. It is the largest underground reservoir in the United States and plays a crucial role in sustaining agriculture, economies and communities in the region.“The problem is that the Ogallala, despite being mind-bogglingly vast, is a finite resource. We’re using it faster than it can replenish. That’s why K-State’s work in irrigation technology and other water-related research is so important,” Metzger said.The research team at the Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City has been working on many different projects, such as implementing deficit irrigation management, improving water efficiency using various irrigation technologies, creating advanced irrigation scheduling systems, and studying alternative crops for a water-limited environment, like cotton.“One of the reasons we are looking at cotton is because it is drought resistant, or at least doesn’t need a lot of water compared to other crops grown in southwest Kansas,” said Jonathan Aguilar, a water resources engineer at the Southwest Research-Extension Center.He said current research indicates that a non-traditional crop like cotton can be grown in Kansas, and it can be profitable.Mezger said this “out-of-the-box" approach to big issues can lead to successful research solutions.“One of the most compelling things about the work our scientists are doing is that they are not limiting their work to the lab or even the experimental field,” she said. “K-State researchers are demonstrating the capacity of these technologies on working farms with Kansas farmers. They are also forming partnerships with sociologists to examine the perceptions behind water use in our region, so that we can understand not just the scientific state of the aquifer, but the cultural significance of the Ogallala as well.”The work of K-State scientists and extension specialists has a positive impact on Kansas residents, according to Metzger. A recent K-State study determined that Kansas producers have a very different view of water use and the Ogallala Aquifer than they did 35 years ago. The study indicated that, today, many producers believe in the importance of conserving groundwater. This is a big step, said Metzger.“The communities and economy of western Kansas represent the heart of what stands to be gained – or lost – based on how resilient our agricultural industries, infrastructure and supply chains can be to climate and water related risks,” she said.“Conserving and extending the future of our water resources will require multidisciplinary research and outreach and educating the next generation of water and natural resource professionals. As the state’s land-grant university, K-State is here to meet that need.”More information on work being done at K-State regarding water conservation and related issues is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment.</a>

Changing climate, weather patterns heighten need for university research says KSU official

To schedule a session, call the Eagle Radio office at (785) 301-2211.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691419836326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To schedule a session, call the Eagle Radio office at (785) 301-2211.

Eagle Radio plans free marketing workshop

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays High School Athletics Hall of Fame inductee Bob Davis.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays High Athletic Hall of Fall inductee Bob Davis" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=59w2u-14848e7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays High School Athletics Hall of Fame inductee Bob Davis.

🎤 Forward Ever: Radio voice Bob Davis, Hays High Athletics Hall of Fall inductee

After two years of drought, signs of the drought easing in Ellis County were finally reported Thursday.

The Kansas Drought Monitor map showed all of Ellis County out of exceptional drought, the highest level that the monitor reports.

Eastern Ellis County still remains in extreme drought, but western areas of the county have been downgraded to severe drought.

Areas of far western Kansas are no longer shown in the drought zone, according to the monitor report, which was released Thursday.

Hays is above normal for rain for the month of August. It has already received 3.53 inches of rain this month compared to an average of 2.97 inches.

However, Hays is still about an inch behind its average year-to-date rainfall.&nbsp;

Hays received about a half inch of rain during the weekend, but other areas of the county received so much rain flash flooding occurred. Cathedral Boulevard in Victoria had to temporarily be closed because of street flooding last weekend.

The forecast for Hays is very hot and dry for the next week. Highs are forecast to be above 100 degrees through Thursday with a high of 107 forecast for Saturday.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Ellis County for Saturday.

The service warns residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692376989528.png" alt="Kansas Drought Monitor map as released Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Monitor map as released Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure> Hays PostAfter two years of drought, signs of the drought easing in Ellis County were finally reported Thursday.The Kansas Drought Monitor map showed all of Ellis County out of exceptional drought, the highest level that the monitor reports.Eastern Ellis County still remains in extreme drought, but western areas of the county have been downgraded to severe drought.Areas of far western Kansas are no longer shown in the drought zone, according to the monitor report, which was released Thursday.Hays is above normal for rain for the month of August. It has already received 3.53 inches of rain this month compared to an average of 2.97 inches.However, Hays is still about an inch behind its average year-to-date rainfall.&nbsp;Hays received about a half inch of rain during the weekend, but other areas of the county received so much rain flash flooding occurred. Cathedral Boulevard in Victoria had to temporarily be closed because of street flooding last weekend.The forecast for Hays is very hot and dry for the next week. Highs are forecast to be above 100 degrees through Thursday with a high of 107 forecast for Saturday.The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Ellis County for Saturday.The service warns residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911.

Drought shows signs of easing in NW Kansas; heat advisory issued for Saturday

Ellis County saw a small uptick in unemployment in July from 2.2 percent in June to 2.4 percent.

Rooks County's rate went up by half a percent, and Trego County's rate also increased slightly by .3 percent. Overall unemployment in northwest Kansas remains low, ranging from 2 to 3 percent as reported by the Kansas Department of Labor report released Friday.

 Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment state rate of 2.7 percent in July. This is a decrease from 2.8 percent in June and unchanged from 2.7 percent in July 2022.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,000 from June. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 1,500 over the month, while government increased by 500.

“Average nominal hourly earnings in the private sector increased 3.2 percent over the year in July, faster than the rate of inflation in the Midwest,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “The result was a small over-the-year increase in real hourly earnings as the Kansas labor market remains strong and inflation continues to moderate.”

Since July 2022 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 23,100. This change is due to an increase of 18,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 4,400 government jobs.

The August 2023 Labor Report will be released Sept. 15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692375937415.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of LaborEllis County saw a small uptick in unemployment in July from 2.2 percent in June to 2.4 percent.Rooks County's rate went up by half a percent, and Trego County's rate also increased slightly by .3 percent. Overall unemployment in northwest Kansas remains low, ranging from 2 to 3 percent as reported by the Kansas Department of Labor report released Friday. Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment state rate of 2.7 percent in July. This is a decrease from 2.8 percent in June and unchanged from 2.7 percent in July 2022.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,000 from June. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 1,500 over the month, while government increased by 500.“Average nominal hourly earnings in the private sector increased 3.2 percent over the year in July, faster than the rate of inflation in the Midwest,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “The result was a small over-the-year increase in real hourly earnings as the Kansas labor market remains strong and inflation continues to moderate.”Since July 2022 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 23,100. This change is due to an increase of 18,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 4,400 government jobs.The August 2023 Labor Report will be released Sept. 15.

Ellis County unemployment rate increases slightly; NW Kansas rate still low

The body and mind are connected in ways we don’t even realize. Neural transmitters and hormones are just a couple of examples of how the brain and body communicate with each other. 

What we do with our physical bodies such as exercise impacts our mental state. On the other hand, our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes can affect our biological functioning! It is amazing how the mind and body work together, and the connection between physical and mental health is intertwined closer than we realize.

We all know that a sedentary lifestyle is bad for physical health, but mental health also suffers when we don’t get as much movement as needed. In fact, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are more prevalent in those who have sedentary lifestyles. 

Movement and muscle-strengthening activities release endorphins that boost energy levels and mood for immediate results. In the long term, exercise habits build strong bones and muscles, but it also builds neural pathways that allow for a strong mind. This improved connection boosts our functionality, positivity, and sense of happiness.

One of the most overlooked forms of exercise, dancing, enhances the brain-body connection and improves emotional awareness. When we dance, rigid emotional patterns are broken, allowing us to find new thought processes. This helps creative juices to get flowing, and it breaks negative thought cycles in our minds. So, this is your cue to take a dance break! You might just be surprised by how refreshing it is.

Whatever your choice of movement is, be encouraged knowing that it has the opportunity to improve your physical well-being, and boost your mental state in return!

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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The body and mind are connected in ways we don’t even realize. Neural transmitters and hormones are just a couple of examples of how the brain and body communicate with each other. What we do with our physical bodies such as exercise impacts our mental state. On the other hand, our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes can affect our biological functioning! It is amazing how the mind and body work together, and the connection between physical and mental health is intertwined closer than we realize.We all know that a sedentary lifestyle is bad for physical health, but mental health also suffers when we don’t get as much movement as needed. In fact, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are more prevalent in those who have sedentary lifestyles. Movement and muscle-strengthening activities release endorphins that boost energy levels and mood for immediate results. In the long term, exercise habits build strong bones and muscles, but it also builds neural pathways that allow for a strong mind. This improved connection boosts our functionality, positivity, and sense of happiness.One of the most overlooked forms of exercise, dancing, enhances the brain-body connection and improves emotional awareness. When we dance, rigid emotional patterns are broken, allowing us to find new thought processes. This helps creative juices to get flowing, and it breaks negative thought cycles in our minds. So, this is your cue to take a dance break! You might just be surprised by how refreshing it is.Whatever your choice of movement is, be encouraged knowing that it has the opportunity to improve your physical well-being, and boost your mental state in return!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.&nbsp;

WINKEL: The mind and movement connection

GOVE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Friday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Kenworth semi driven by Matthew H.&nbsp;Kuhlman, 40, Norcatur, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of County Road 80.

The driver took his seatbelt off to readjust it and jerked the steering wheel. The vehicle traveled into the median and overturned.

EMS transported Kuhlman to the Gove County Medical Center for treatment of a minor injury.

GOVE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Friday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Kenworth semi driven by Matthew H.&nbsp;Kuhlman, 40, Norcatur, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of County Road 80.The driver took his seatbelt off to readjust it and jerked the steering wheel. The vehicle traveled into the median and overturned.EMS transported Kuhlman to the Gove County Medical Center for treatment of a minor injury.

Kan. man adjusting his seatbelt injured in I-70 crash

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two Hays child care providers have received state grants to increase slots for children. A third facility has received a private grant.

The Hays Area Children's Center received $31,000 from Child Care Aware through its Capacity Building grant to hire additional staff for its summer program.

Most of those funds will go to the center to reimburse expenses incurred to hire additional staff this summer, Sarah Wasinger, Child Care Task Force of Ellis County facilitator.

Brandi Oakley, Hays Area Children's Center director, said it doubled the size of the school-age program from 16 to 32 children. That program takes kindergarten through fourth-grade students.

The extra staffing also provided the needed supervision for the children to go on multiple field trips during the summer, Oakley said.

The rest of the funding will pay for a paraprofessional in the preschool room, which will allow that program to take three extra children to reach its full license limit of 15 students, Oakley said.

That position will be funded through the fall semester.

Oakley said the center's next goal is to increase slots in its infant and toddler program.

Learning Cross Child Care received $14,000 in state funds for supplies, furnishings and playground equipment to open a new child care center at the First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall, Hays.

Learning Cross has an existing facility on Canterbury, but this would be an expansion of that program, with the new center being a satellite location.

Grow Hays' Grove project also recently received $26,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation to pay for furnishings and equipment.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09ac3361-ef7e-4078-a540-b0cfafaf1bc5">The Grove will be a housing project at the corner of 27th and Canterbury in Hays.</a>&nbsp;

A child care center and a senior center are parts of the project. The child care center could serve up to 77 children from infant to preschool. The slots would be open to the public. The project does not have a completion date.

Since the child care task force was founded in 2021, the unmet need for child care spots has decreased from more than 700 to fewer than 500 spots needed in Ellis County as of Tuesday.

This does not take into consideration the child care projects that are in the works but have not opened, Wasinger said.

Those pending projects include the new Learning Cross center, HaysMed's child care center, which is nearing completion, Holy Family's early childhood program, and The Grove's child care center.

Once those new programs open, the unmet need should drop to about 275 spots, Wasinger said.

Wasinger said task force members are visiting with in-home providers who said they are starting to have more open spots for children from 18 months to 5 years old.

She said she sees in-home providers being key to providing care for the rest of the families in need of child care services.

"We now feel the focus needs to be turned to infant care—birth to 18 months," Wasigner said.

The state requires more caretakers in programs that care for infants, which drives up the cost of wages and benefits.

"We are not aware of anywhere in the state of Kansas or the United States that has been able to provide spots for infant care and make it sustainable," Wasinger said.

When the task force did its initial child care survey, 32 percent of the respondents were seeking care for infants through 18-month-olds.

The state has launched a pilot program in a couple of counties that are providing subsidies to providers who add infant care. Wasigner said she would like to see that program expanded.

"I would be surprised if we didn't have some providers in Hays and Ellis County who won't be interested in doing that if it would be a little bit more affordable on their end," she said.

Wasinger said local providers and parents have continued to express frustration with what they see as onerous child care regulations in Kansas.

"We have talked this whole time about how Kansas is one of the heaviest regulated child care states in the United States," she said. "We want to make sure the quality of care is still there, but are there regulations in place today that don't necessarily make sense anymore?"

Kansas' child care regulations are under review. <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/2063/Regulation-Review">Follow this link to make comments</a>. You do not have to be a provider to offer feedback.

For parents looking for child care, Child Care Aware of Kansas, which can be found at <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/">https://ks.childcareaware.org/</a>, can assist in finding open child care spots in your area.

To stay up-to-date on child care issues in Ellis County, you can follow the task force on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChildCareTaskForceOfEllisCounty">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or check out the <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county#:~:text=*All%20community%20members%20are%20welcome,Street%2C%20in%20Hays%2C%20Kansas.">task force's website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221805131.jpg" alt="Cover photo courtesy of Pixbay." />
 <figcaption>Cover photo courtesy of Pixbay.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo Hays child care providers have received state grants to increase slots for children. A third facility has received a private grant.The Hays Area Children's Center received $31,000 from Child Care Aware through its Capacity Building grant to hire additional staff for its summer program.Most of those funds will go to the center to reimburse expenses incurred to hire additional staff this summer, Sarah Wasinger, Child Care Task Force of Ellis County facilitator.Brandi Oakley, Hays Area Children's Center director, said it doubled the size of the school-age program from 16 to 32 children. That program takes kindergarten through fourth-grade students.The extra staffing also provided the needed supervision for the children to go on multiple field trips during the summer, Oakley said.The rest of the funding will pay for a paraprofessional in the preschool room, which will allow that program to take three extra children to reach its full license limit of 15 students, Oakley said.That position will be funded through the fall semester.Oakley said the center's next goal is to increase slots in its infant and toddler program.Learning Cross Child Care received $14,000 in state funds for supplies, furnishings and playground equipment to open a new child care center at the First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall, Hays.Learning Cross has an existing facility on Canterbury, but this would be an expansion of that program, with the new center being a satellite location.Grow Hays' Grove project also recently received $26,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation to pay for furnishings and equipment.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09ac3361-ef7e-4078-a540-b0cfafaf1bc5">The Grove will be a housing project at the corner of 27th and Canterbury in Hays.</a>&nbsp;A child care center and a senior center are parts of the project. The child care center could serve up to 77 children from infant to preschool. The slots would be open to the public. The project does not have a completion date.Since the child care task force was founded in 2021, the unmet need for child care spots has decreased from more than 700 to fewer than 500 spots needed in Ellis County as of Tuesday.This does not take into consideration the child care projects that are in the works but have not opened, Wasinger said.Those pending projects include the new Learning Cross center, HaysMed's child care center, which is nearing completion, Holy Family's early childhood program, and The Grove's child care center.Once those new programs open, the unmet need should drop to about 275 spots, Wasinger said.Wasinger said task force members are visiting with in-home providers who said they are starting to have more open spots for children from 18 months to 5 years old.She said she sees in-home providers being key to providing care for the rest of the families in need of child care services."We now feel the focus needs to be turned to infant care—birth to 18 months," Wasigner said.The state requires more caretakers in programs that care for infants, which drives up the cost of wages and benefits."We are not aware of anywhere in the state of Kansas or the United States that has been able to provide spots for infant care and make it sustainable," Wasinger said.When the task force did its initial child care survey, 32 percent of the respondents were seeking care for infants through 18-month-olds.The state has launched a pilot program in a couple of counties that are providing subsidies to providers who add infant care. Wasigner said she would like to see that program expanded."I would be surprised if we didn't have some providers in Hays and Ellis County who won't be interested in doing that if it would be a little bit more affordable on their end," she said.Wasinger said local providers and parents have continued to express frustration with what they see as onerous child care regulations in Kansas."We have talked this whole time about how Kansas is one of the heaviest regulated child care states in the United States," she said. "We want to make sure the quality of care is still there, but are there regulations in place today that don't necessarily make sense anymore?"Kansas' child care regulations are under review. <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/2063/Regulation-Review">Follow this link to make comments</a>. You do not have to be a provider to offer feedback.For parents looking for child care, Child Care Aware of Kansas, which can be found at <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/">https://ks.childcareaware.org/</a>, can assist in finding open child care spots in your area.To stay up-to-date on child care issues in Ellis County, you can follow the task force on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChildCareTaskForceOfEllisCounty">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or check out the <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county#:~:text=*All%20community%20members%20are%20welcome,Street%2C%20in%20Hays%2C%20Kansas.">task force's website</a>.

3 Hays child care centers receive grants to expand capacity

The exceptional care and dedication of nurses at HaysMed have once again been recognized as the acute care unit has been honored with the Daisy Team Award. This award is a tribute to outstanding contributions to patient care, compassionate approach, and the profound impact the nursing unit has on patients.

The Daisy Award, an internationally renowned program, shines a spotlight on nurses who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional clinical expertise and empathetic care. The staff of the acute care unit embodies these qualities, serving as a source of comfort for patients and their families during their times of need.

Acute care nurses were nominated for this recognition by a grateful family member of a patient under their care. 

The nominating family member expressed deep gratitude for the exceptional care and shared, "One of the nurse’s dedication to my loved one's well-being was evident from the moment we met her. She not only provided expert medical care, but she also took the time to listen to our concerns and offer emotional support."

The nominating family member continued, "During a challenging time, another nurse demonstrated remarkable empathy and kindness. Her reassuring presence and the genuine interest she showed in our family's well-being made all the difference. She treated us with the utmost respect and dignity, creating an atmosphere of trust and comfort that helped us navigate the complexities of the medical journey."

"We are incredibly proud to be affiliated with the Daisy Award program," remarked Terry Siek, chief nursing officer and vice president for patient care. "This recognition serves as a reminder of the immeasurable impact compassionate and skilled nurses those in the acute care unit have on the lives of our patients. Their dedication and commitment to providing exceptional care truly exemplify the values we hold at HaysMed."

HaysMed, a Daisy Award Hospital Partner, is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and empathy among its nursing staff. The Daisy Award celebrates the extraordinary contributions nurses make to patient care and ensures that their efforts do not go unnoticed. Each year, HaysMed has the privilege of honoring a team who embodies the spirit of the Daisy Award.

To nominate a nurse or team at HaysMed for the Daisy Award, individuals are encouraged to visit the official website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/daisy-nomination-form/" target="_blank">https://www.haysmed.com/daisy-nomination-form/</a>.

 If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the Daisy Award team at 785-623-2365.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692266332874.jpeg" alt="HaysMed's Acute Care Unit was honored with the Daisy Team Award. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>HaysMed's Acute Care Unit was honored with the Daisy Team Award. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedThe exceptional care and dedication of nurses at HaysMed have once again been recognized as the acute care unit has been honored with the Daisy Team Award. This award is a tribute to outstanding contributions to patient care, compassionate approach, and the profound impact the nursing unit has on patients.The Daisy Award, an internationally renowned program, shines a spotlight on nurses who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional clinical expertise and empathetic care. The staff of the acute care unit embodies these qualities, serving as a source of comfort for patients and their families during their times of need.Acute care nurses were nominated for this recognition by a grateful family member of a patient under their care. The nominating family member expressed deep gratitude for the exceptional care and shared, "One of the nurse’s dedication to my loved one's well-being was evident from the moment we met her. She not only provided expert medical care, but she also took the time to listen to our concerns and offer emotional support."The nominating family member continued, "During a challenging time, another nurse demonstrated remarkable empathy and kindness. Her reassuring presence and the genuine interest she showed in our family's well-being made all the difference. She treated us with the utmost respect and dignity, creating an atmosphere of trust and comfort that helped us navigate the complexities of the medical journey.""We are incredibly proud to be affiliated with the Daisy Award program," remarked Terry Siek, chief nursing officer and vice president for patient care. "This recognition serves as a reminder of the immeasurable impact compassionate and skilled nurses those in the acute care unit have on the lives of our patients. Their dedication and commitment to providing exceptional care truly exemplify the values we hold at HaysMed."HaysMed, a Daisy Award Hospital Partner, is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and empathy among its nursing staff. The Daisy Award celebrates the extraordinary contributions nurses make to patient care and ensures that their efforts do not go unnoticed. Each year, HaysMed has the privilege of honoring a team who embodies the spirit of the Daisy Award.To nominate a nurse or team at HaysMed for the Daisy Award, individuals are encouraged to visit the official website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/daisy-nomination-form/" target="_blank">https://www.haysmed.com/daisy-nomination-form/</a>. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the Daisy Award team at 785-623-2365.

HaysMed's Acute Care Unit receives award for exceptional patient care

Investing in high probability outcomes over full market cycles helps Werth Wealth Management, 1200 Main, Hays, confidently navigate through ever-changing environments, making long-term investing the key to our clients’ success. Our organization also recognizes the importance of our long-term responsibility to you and your family.

Werth Wealth Management started as a small investment group serving the Hays area, and we will always stay true to our roots. As our clients have grown, we have continually adapted to service their needs. 

With that in mind, it is our pleasure to announce four new partners to the firm: Cheri Dorzweiler, Preston Werth, Andrew Taylor, and Gus Konz.

Each of these associates brings a unique skill set and talent to the future success of our clients and the firm. We hold our responsibility to our clients in the highest regard and look forward to serving your investment and wealth management, financial planning, and legacy planning needs for generations to come.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Werth Wealth Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692177820990.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedInvesting in high probability outcomes over full market cycles helps Werth Wealth Management, 1200 Main, Hays, confidently navigate through ever-changing environments, making long-term investing the key to our clients’ success. Our organization also recognizes the importance of our long-term responsibility to you and your family.Werth Wealth Management started as a small investment group serving the Hays area, and we will always stay true to our roots. As our clients have grown, we have continually adapted to service their needs. With that in mind, it is our pleasure to announce four new partners to the firm: Cheri Dorzweiler, Preston Werth, Andrew Taylor, and Gus Konz. Each of these associates brings a unique skill set and talent to the future success of our clients and the firm. We hold our responsibility to our clients in the highest regard and look forward to serving your investment and wealth management, financial planning, and legacy planning needs for generations to come.Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Werth Wealth Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Werth Wealth Management adds additional partners

Leading the student government this year is a remarkable student with deep family roots at Fort Hays State University – Ella Burrows. Ella hails from Satanta, a quaint town in southwest Kansas with a population of 1,000.

Ella is a fourth-generation Tiger, with her great Aunt Mabel Lacey being an esteemed faculty member at FHSU in the 1920s. Her grandfather, Bob Meier, also taught at FHSU for more than four decades, and her parents and grandparents graduated from FHSU. Ella’s family has a long-standing connection with FHSU, with her grandparents and parents meeting at the university. It’s a special place for Ella and her family.

The students on our campus hail from diverse backgrounds, each with unique stories, hopes, and dreams. From the very first day, our faculty and staff invest in each student, taking the time to make individual connections, instill confidence, and nurture them toward success. For Ella, that person is a political science faculty member, Wendy Rohleder-Sook.

“Professor Rohleder-Sook and I share similar backgrounds. She has been an exemplary role model for me at FHSU,” Ella said. “Thanks to FHSU’s small class sizes, I have enjoyed getting to know Professor Rohleder-Sook and several other faculty members with whom I share a close bond.”

When asked why she chose Fort Hays State, Ella speaks of her family tradition and the university’s affordability. She felt at home when she stepped on campus and knew this was where she wanted to be. She was also impressed by the incredible scholarships provided by the university, allowing her to graduate debt-free before taking on law school loans.

Ella dreams of a future where she can do educational policy work as a university general counsel or lobbyist. She is beginning her junior year as a political science major. She has also included certificates in legal studies and community development as elements in her academic experience. Ella’s studies in community development have been helpful as she leads the Student Government Association, empowering FHSU students to use their voices and be active and engaged members of their community.

Ella’s SGA presidential goals for 23-24 center on empowering students under a theme of sustainability and campus projects like recycling and The Green Event. The latter is an event that is organized in an environmentally friendly manner, taking into consideration the impact on the environment and minimizing waste. She also plans to make programming on campus more accessible and student-centered by reaching out to diverse groups, addressing student concerns, and engaging the entire community.

“I ran for SGA president to empower FHSU students to use their voices and be active and engaged community members,” Ella said. “I am incredibly passionate about FHSU and higher education. I saw this role as an opportunity to give back to the university that means so much to me and my family!”

Reflecting on the past year, Ella expresses that a moment of pride was ensuring there would be no increase to student fees for the current academic year.

“As a strong advocate for affordability, it was a moment of immense pride to navigate the fee process and present the proposal to the Fiscal Affairs Committee of the Kansas Board of Regents.”

In addition, she had the privilege to join the Fort Hays State University Government Relations team in Washington, D.C., where our delegation had the opportunity to meet with legislators and share the remarkable impact of our beloved university.

Ella is very engaged on campus. She is a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority, the Honors College, VIP Ambassadors, Young Democrats, and Pi Sigma Alpha. Pi Sigma Alpha is a national political science honor society that recognizes outstanding academic achievement in political science.

This past spring, Ella was selected as a Newman Fellow. This program recognizes and supports community-committed students who are changemakers and public problem-solvers at Campus Compact member institutions. The fellowship provides training and resources that nurture students’ talents and passions to help them develop strategies to achieve social change.

To become a Newman Civic Fellow, a student must be nominated by their college or university president or chancellor. The nomination process typically occurs in the fall, and selected fellows are announced in the spring. The fellowship is open to students from Campus Compact member institutions committed to civic engagement, social justice, and solving community problems. 

Key areas of Ella’s focus as SGA President and a Newman Fellow include developing voter registration drives, student voting initiatives, and civic engagement surveys.

Ella will travel to Boston for a Campus Compact conference in October. She plans to bring back civic engagement opportunities and ideas for Tiger Nation.

I have enjoyed getting to know Ella this past year. She brings a lot of Tiger pride, compassion, and energy to this vital leadership role. I look forward to an outstanding year as Ella and I work alongside our faculty, staff, and students to create memories, prepare students for their futures, and improve their lives.

Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, FHSU president. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, FHSU president. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Leading the student government this year is a remarkable student with deep family roots at Fort Hays State University – Ella Burrows. Ella hails from Satanta, a quaint town in southwest Kansas with a population of 1,000.Ella is a fourth-generation Tiger, with her great Aunt Mabel Lacey being an esteemed faculty member at FHSU in the 1920s. Her grandfather, Bob Meier, also taught at FHSU for more than four decades, and her parents and grandparents graduated from FHSU. Ella’s family has a long-standing connection with FHSU, with her grandparents and parents meeting at the university. It’s a special place for Ella and her family.The students on our campus hail from diverse backgrounds, each with unique stories, hopes, and dreams. From the very first day, our faculty and staff invest in each student, taking the time to make individual connections, instill confidence, and nurture them toward success. For Ella, that person is a political science faculty member, Wendy Rohleder-Sook.“Professor Rohleder-Sook and I share similar backgrounds. She has been an exemplary role model for me at FHSU,” Ella said. “Thanks to FHSU’s small class sizes, I have enjoyed getting to know Professor Rohleder-Sook and several other faculty members with whom I share a close bond.”When asked why she chose Fort Hays State, Ella speaks of her family tradition and the university’s affordability. She felt at home when she stepped on campus and knew this was where she wanted to be. She was also impressed by the incredible scholarships provided by the university, allowing her to graduate debt-free before taking on law school loans.Ella dreams of a future where she can do educational policy work as a university general counsel or lobbyist. She is beginning her junior year as a political science major. She has also included certificates in legal studies and community development as elements in her academic experience. Ella’s studies in community development have been helpful as she leads the Student Government Association, empowering FHSU students to use their voices and be active and engaged members of their community.Ella’s SGA presidential goals for 23-24 center on empowering students under a theme of sustainability and campus projects like recycling and The Green Event. The latter is an event that is organized in an environmentally friendly manner, taking into consideration the impact on the environment and minimizing waste. She also plans to make programming on campus more accessible and student-centered by reaching out to diverse groups, addressing student concerns, and engaging the entire community.“I ran for SGA president to empower FHSU students to use their voices and be active and engaged community members,” Ella said. “I am incredibly passionate about FHSU and higher education. I saw this role as an opportunity to give back to the university that means so much to me and my family!”Reflecting on the past year, Ella expresses that a moment of pride was ensuring there would be no increase to student fees for the current academic year.“As a strong advocate for affordability, it was a moment of immense pride to navigate the fee process and present the proposal to the Fiscal Affairs Committee of the Kansas Board of Regents.”In addition, she had the privilege to join the Fort Hays State University Government Relations team in Washington, D.C., where our delegation had the opportunity to meet with legislators and share the remarkable impact of our beloved university.Ella is very engaged on campus. She is a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority, the Honors College, VIP Ambassadors, Young Democrats, and Pi Sigma Alpha. Pi Sigma Alpha is a national political science honor society that recognizes outstanding academic achievement in political science.This past spring, Ella was selected as a Newman Fellow. This program recognizes and supports community-committed students who are changemakers and public problem-solvers at Campus Compact member institutions. The fellowship provides training and resources that nurture students’ talents and passions to help them develop strategies to achieve social change.To become a Newman Civic Fellow, a student must be nominated by their college or university president or chancellor. The nomination process typically occurs in the fall, and selected fellows are announced in the spring. The fellowship is open to students from Campus Compact member institutions committed to civic engagement, social justice, and solving community problems. Key areas of Ella’s focus as SGA President and a Newman Fellow include developing voter registration drives, student voting initiatives, and civic engagement surveys.Ella will travel to Boston for a Campus Compact conference in October. She plans to bring back civic engagement opportunities and ideas for Tiger Nation.I have enjoyed getting to know Ella this past year. She brings a lot of Tiger pride, compassion, and energy to this vital leadership role. I look forward to an outstanding year as Ella and I work alongside our faculty, staff, and students to create memories, prepare students for their futures, and improve their lives.Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

Heart of a Tiger: Family ties to FHSU run deep in rural Kansas

For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692290356481.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.

SHERMAN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a standoff at a northwest Kansas home.

Just before 6p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a report of shots fired at a home in the 800 Block of Harrison in Goodland, according to a media release.

Officers heard active gunfire inside the home. The suspect refused law enforcement commands to exit the residence.

Police evacuated nearby homes and secured the area. Just after 7:30p.m., police resolved the situation and made one arrest. There were no injuries. Police did not release the name of the suspect or possible charges.

SHERMAN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a standoff at a northwest Kansas home.Just before 6p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a report of shots fired at a home in the 800 Block of Harrison in Goodland, according to a media release.Officers heard active gunfire inside the home. The suspect refused law enforcement commands to exit the residence.Police evacuated nearby homes and secured the area. Just after 7:30p.m., police resolved the situation and made one arrest. There were no injuries. Police did not release the name of the suspect or possible charges.

Suspect arrested after standoff at NW Kansas home

 Hays! Save HUGE and Get 20 Ribeyes for $35! We accept EBT and major credit/debit cards. SPECIALS on ALL family packages of Steak, Chicken, and Seafood  while supplies last! Going on now until sold out!

 Located in the parking lot of Big Creek Crossing Mall.2918 Vine. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., unless we are sold out early that day. Our meat is individually packaged, vacuum-sealed, and freezer ready! 

Skip the grocery stores and save with us. Come by our tent, and we will happily show you what we have.

 Choice Beef Family Packs, Boneless Chicken Breast Variety Packs and Seafood &amp; Shrimp Family Packs are available.

 Show the above ad for $50 off any family pack variety of your choice. (Can not be combined with any other offers)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692124642695.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Hays! Save HUGE and Get 20 Ribeyes for $35! We accept EBT and major credit/debit cards. SPECIALS on ALL family packages of Steak, Chicken, and Seafood while supplies last! Going on now until sold out! Located in the parking lot of Big Creek Crossing Mall.2918 Vine. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., unless we are sold out early that day. Our meat is individually packaged, vacuum-sealed, and freezer ready! Skip the grocery stores and save with us. Come by our tent, and we will happily show you what we have. Choice Beef Family Packs, Boneless Chicken Breast Variety Packs and Seafood &amp; Shrimp Family Packs are available. Show the above ad for $50 off any family pack variety of your choice. (Can not be combined with any other offers)

🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 kicks off academic year

Various tensions—urban vs. rural, national vs. local—haunt almost every discussion about environmental policy in the United States. Recent efforts by some Kansas educational institutions reflect a path beyond those tensions, efforts that are long overdue.

To start, environmental concerns—extreme weather, soil depletion, oil extraction costs, and more—affect the lives of country people far more immediately than they do those of city-dwellers. Farmers and ranchers worried about the shrinking Ogallala Aquifer, rural Kansans hoping solar power can free them from urban-centered electric grids: these and others confront the need for better environmental policies every day.

Yet resistance to environmental policies is strongest in the mostly conservative, emptier parts of the country, with hardly a week going by without&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article278134417.html" target="_blank">another story of rural folk responding with frustration</a>&nbsp;to even small-scale efforts to create more sustainable food or work or energy alternatives.

This is partly because the political push for sustainability in America often begins in urban centers far away from the de-populating heartland. “Environmentalism” thus becomes associated with national government programs promoted by Democratic voters in big, diverse cities far from the country, when in practice the most effective environmental policies have always been those that can be adapted to regional natural conditions by long-time, on-the-ground residents.

Nationally, the harms caused by invasive species, climate change, oil dependency, and more are so large that many believe better environmental approaches must be forced down the throats of rural residents. And many conservative leaders have scare-mongered this prospect for decades, treating efforts to make the American way of life more sustainable as evil conspiracies, winning votes from rural America even as they suffer the most from these problems.

What is needed is for civic institutions and political bodies in the “middle” to connect the more homogenous residents of America’s least crowded places with environmentally-attuned resources and expertise, enabling them move towards policy adaptations on a scale that reflects both local priorities and the global seriousness of the problem.

For example, local groundwater districts in Kansas have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-04-04/with-the-ogallala-aquifer-drying-up-kansas-ponders-limits-to-irrigation" target="_blank">recently been legally empowered</a>&nbsp;to incentivize farmers to develop on their own more aggressive water conservation plans.

This is what “middling” organizations can do—directly engage with local communities, and thereby build bridges between broader perspectives on environment imperatives on the one hand, and local factions which have specific, practical interests in it on the other.

In Salina, Kansas Wesleyan has launched a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwu.edu/crh/" target="_blank">Community Resilience Hub</a>, joining with the Kansas Rural Center to focus on regenerative agricultural practices and work with local farmers along I-135 to build a more climate-resilient food corridor.

In Wichita, both Friends and Newman Universities have launched programs—in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.friends.edu/undergraduate/science-technology-engineering-mathematics/conservation-science/" target="_blank">Conservation Science</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://newmanu.edu/academics/undergraduate/agribusiness" target="_blank">Agribusiness</a>, respectively—which include the aim of linking environmental ethics and sustainability with the business of tending to and working on the natural world, teaching students more about the local ecosystems they are part of.

And Wichita State University has established a&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandej.org/" target="_blank">Heartland Environmental Justice Center</a>, dedicated to helping poorer communities (particularly Black and Native ones) throughout the region make use of sustainable development practices, and seek compensation for how past national efforts to address environmental problems often passed them by. Since many of these communities have long seen “environmentalism” as reflecting of the interests of White tourists rather than the needs of local residents, this is necessary, restorative work.

Overcoming resistance to better environmental policies throughout Kansas will not be an easy effort. But building upon these local and regional connecting initiatives will likely go farther in resolving tensions than most.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586443443315.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Various tensions—urban vs. rural, national vs. local—haunt almost every discussion about environmental policy in the United States. Recent efforts by some Kansas educational institutions reflect a path beyond those tensions, efforts that are long overdue.To start, environmental concerns—extreme weather, soil depletion, oil extraction costs, and more—affect the lives of country people far more immediately than they do those of city-dwellers. Farmers and ranchers worried about the shrinking Ogallala Aquifer, rural Kansans hoping solar power can free them from urban-centered electric grids: these and others confront the need for better environmental policies every day.Yet resistance to environmental policies is strongest in the mostly conservative, emptier parts of the country, with hardly a week going by without&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article278134417.html" target="_blank">another story of rural folk responding with frustration</a>&nbsp;to even small-scale efforts to create more sustainable food or work or energy alternatives.This is partly because the political push for sustainability in America often begins in urban centers far away from the de-populating heartland. “Environmentalism” thus becomes associated with national government programs promoted by Democratic voters in big, diverse cities far from the country, when in practice the most effective environmental policies have always been those that can be adapted to regional natural conditions by long-time, on-the-ground residents.Nationally, the harms caused by invasive species, climate change, oil dependency, and more are so large that many believe better environmental approaches must be forced down the throats of rural residents. And many conservative leaders have scare-mongered this prospect for decades, treating efforts to make the American way of life more sustainable as evil conspiracies, winning votes from rural America even as they suffer the most from these problems.What is needed is for civic institutions and political bodies in the “middle” to connect the more homogenous residents of America’s least crowded places with environmentally-attuned resources and expertise, enabling them move towards policy adaptations on a scale that reflects both local priorities and the global seriousness of the problem.For example, local groundwater districts in Kansas have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-04-04/with-the-ogallala-aquifer-drying-up-kansas-ponders-limits-to-irrigation" target="_blank">recently been legally empowered</a>&nbsp;to incentivize farmers to develop on their own more aggressive water conservation plans. This is what “middling” organizations can do—directly engage with local communities, and thereby build bridges between broader perspectives on environment imperatives on the one hand, and local factions which have specific, practical interests in it on the other.In Salina, Kansas Wesleyan has launched a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwu.edu/crh/" target="_blank">Community Resilience Hub</a>, joining with the Kansas Rural Center to focus on regenerative agricultural practices and work with local farmers along I-135 to build a more climate-resilient food corridor. In Wichita, both Friends and Newman Universities have launched programs—in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.friends.edu/undergraduate/science-technology-engineering-mathematics/conservation-science/" target="_blank">Conservation Science</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://newmanu.edu/academics/undergraduate/agribusiness" target="_blank">Agribusiness</a>, respectively—which include the aim of linking environmental ethics and sustainability with the business of tending to and working on the natural world, teaching students more about the local ecosystems they are part of.And Wichita State University has established a&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandej.org/" target="_blank">Heartland Environmental Justice Center</a>, dedicated to helping poorer communities (particularly Black and Native ones) throughout the region make use of sustainable development practices, and seek compensation for how past national efforts to address environmental problems often passed them by. Since many of these communities have long seen “environmentalism” as reflecting of the interests of White tourists rather than the needs of local residents, this is necessary, restorative work.Overcoming resistance to better environmental policies throughout Kansas will not be an easy effort. But building upon these local and regional connecting initiatives will likely go farther in resolving tensions than most.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

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