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.

Three-day weather outlook

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.

INSIGHT KANSAS: A 'middling' approach to better environmental policies in Kansas

From kindergarten to high school, students in Hays have
returned to their classrooms.

To celebrate the beginning of the year, Holy Family Elementary and Thomas More Prep-Marian have
planned the Back 2 School Bash from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at Holy Family, 1800 Milner.

While the annual event typically brings hundreds of students
and families together on the TMP-M campus, in celebration of the 25th anniversary
of Holy Family, the elementary school will host the event, said Tracy Perrett,
Holy Family Elementary administrative assistant.

“It's a free event,” she said. And “anybody from the
community is welcome to join.”

The event allows parents and students to get reacquainted
for the year as they enjoy the festivities, Perrett said.

“It's going to be a fun-filled night again,” said Joe
Roth, TMP Advancement Office assistant.

“Astra Bank is
providing hot dogs and chips for us. Knights of Columbus is providing
watermelon, and the TMP-M students in the Key Club will be helping us with cotton
candy,"&nbsp;Perrett said. 

The TMP Booster Club also will offer popcorn, and snow cones
will be available.

“We will have a band, DOC, playing for us,” Perrett said. “We're
super excited about that. That's another new change.”

Activities for children will include bouncy houses, laser
tag and access to the playground and basketball court. 

“They can just run wild,” Perrett said.

“And then, along with everything else…I think the next
biggest thing that we've got is old TMP Marion football uniforms,” Roth said.

TMP-M head football coach “Grant
Stevenson, this year, was going through all the storage stuff and decided that ‘Hey,
we're going to sell these at The Back 2 School Bash.’ So if you played or knew
somebody who played in the last, I think, 30 years' worth of jerseys, and you'd
like memorabilia from that, please come on out and check those out and swipe
up your jersey.”

Funds from those jersey sales will be given to the football
team for future equipment purchases, he said.

“We also have raffles,” Perrett said. “A lot of the teachers
have decided to donate things…So when the students get there, they can register
for the raffles, and then we will pick a student for each prize.”

While the event is hosted by the schools, community sponsors
make it possible, Roth said.

“It's always great that we have the businesses and
individuals out there in the community that give their monetary donations, but
also just a big shout out and thank you to all of our volunteers that help out
with this,” he said.

“Whether it's the football and volleyball teams that are
going to be manning the bouncy houses and the laser tag, or the parents that
are going to bring different balls and games and help us set up and set up, and teardown is a big one, just a big, big thank you to anybody who's donated
anything, any items, monetary or just their time to help us out with this.”

Perrett said everyone is welcome to attend, even if they
have no affiliation with the schools.

“We encourage you to bring friends, family. Anyone is
welcome,” she said. “We want you to come and visit our school and see what
we're all about.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692214339391.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostFrom kindergarten to high school, students in Hays have
returned to their classrooms.To celebrate the beginning of the year, Holy Family Elementary and Thomas More Prep-Marian have
planned the Back 2 School Bash from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at Holy Family, 1800 Milner.While the annual event typically brings hundreds of students
and families together on the TMP-M campus, in celebration of the 25th anniversary
of Holy Family, the elementary school will host the event, said Tracy Perrett,
Holy Family Elementary administrative assistant.“It's a free event,” she said. And “anybody from the
community is welcome to join.”The event allows parents and students to get reacquainted
for the year as they enjoy the festivities, Perrett said.<div><iframe title="Hays Catholic schools celebrate new year with annual Back 2 School Bash" 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=6infh-1481633-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>“It's going to be a fun-filled night again,” said Joe
Roth, TMP Advancement Office assistant.The event will offer free food.“Astra Bank is
providing hot dogs and chips for us. Knights of Columbus is providing
watermelon, and the TMP-M students in the Key Club will be helping us with cotton
candy,"&nbsp;Perrett said. The TMP Booster Club also will offer popcorn, and snow cones
will be available.“We will have a band, DOC, playing for us,” Perrett said. “We're
super excited about that. That's another new change.”Activities for children will include bouncy houses, laser
tag and access to the playground and basketball court. “They can just run wild,” Perrett said.“And then, along with everything else…I think the next
biggest thing that we've got is old TMP Marion football uniforms,” Roth said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692214371245.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-M head football coach “Grant
Stevenson, this year, was going through all the storage stuff and decided that ‘Hey,
we're going to sell these at The Back 2 School Bash.’ So if you played or knew
somebody who played in the last, I think, 30 years' worth of jerseys, and you'd
like memorabilia from that, please come on out and check those out and swipe
up your jersey.”Funds from those jersey sales will be given to the football
team for future equipment purchases, he said.“We also have raffles,” Perrett said. “A lot of the teachers
have decided to donate things…So when the students get there, they can register
for the raffles, and then we will pick a student for each prize.”While the event is hosted by the schools, community sponsors
make it possible, Roth said.“It's always great that we have the businesses and
individuals out there in the community that give their monetary donations, but
also just a big shout out and thank you to all of our volunteers that help out
with this,” he said.“Whether it's the football and volleyball teams that are
going to be manning the bouncy houses and the laser tag, or the parents that
are going to bring different balls and games and help us set up and set up, and teardown is a big one, just a big, big thank you to anybody who's donated
anything, any items, monetary or just their time to help us out with this.”Perrett said everyone is welcome to attend, even if they
have no affiliation with the schools.“We encourage you to bring friends, family. Anyone is
welcome,” she said. “We want you to come and visit our school and see what
we're all about.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692214390313.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Hays Catholic schools celebrate new year with annual Back 2 School Bash 

RAWLINS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged cattle theft in northwest Kansas.

A member of the Kansas Livestock Associated reported 17-head of 200-350 pound calves were stolen in mid-July ten miles northeast of Atwood, according to a media release from the sheriff's office. The calves carry fresh brands of V arrow high on the right hip.

The Kansas Livestock Association is offering a $5000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.

RAWLINS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged cattle theft in northwest Kansas.A member of the Kansas Livestock Associated reported 17-head of 200-350 pound calves were stolen in mid-July ten miles northeast of Atwood, according to a media release from the sheriff's office. The calves carry fresh brands of V arrow high on the right hip.The Kansas Livestock Association is offering a $5000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.

Reward offered after cattle reported stolen in NW Kansas

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The tragic <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c8f5784c-851b-499a-966e-5c9d4ebcb5bb">death of an 8-year-old girl hit by a school bus</a> early Wednesday morning in Wichita weighs heavily on&nbsp;Tim Greenwood, Hays Police Department lieutenant.&nbsp;

She died after darting into traffic from between two vehicles, said law enforcement.

How to prevent such accidents is something he and the other police officers talk about every year in the days just before school starts in Hays.

All Hays Catholic and public school students are back in class as of today.

Greenwood reminds drivers to "be extra vigilant because kids are unpredictable."

"They will cut between cars and aren't always the best at using the crosswalk," he said.

Parents and the adults in kids' lives should remind&nbsp; youngsters to stay off their phones and use the crosswalk.

"Show them how to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street at the crosswalk," Greenwood said.

"But it's imperative that we as the drivers shoulder the burden (of watching out for the children.)"&nbsp;

Accidents such as the one in Wichita are tragic for everyone involved, Greenwood said.

"It's even worse when children are involved," he said, "so please pay better attention to make sure we're not having any vehicle versus child accidents."

Greenwood says the most important actions a driver can take are to "slow down, be alert, and stay off your phone."

The pedestrian fatality is under investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221177825.png" alt="A Wichita child was hit and killed Wednesday in Wichita when she darted into traffic from between two vehicles. Photo courtesy KWCH-TV." />
 <figcaption>A Wichita child was hit and killed Wednesday in Wichita when she darted into traffic from between two vehicles. Photo courtesy KWCH-TV.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe tragic <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c8f5784c-851b-499a-966e-5c9d4ebcb5bb">death of an 8-year-old girl hit by a school bus</a> early Wednesday morning in Wichita weighs heavily on&nbsp;Tim Greenwood, Hays Police Department lieutenant.&nbsp;She died after darting into traffic from between two vehicles, said law enforcement.How to prevent such accidents is something he and the other police officers talk about every year in the days just before school starts in Hays.All Hays Catholic and public school students are back in class as of today.Greenwood reminds drivers to "be extra vigilant because kids are unpredictable.""They will cut between cars and aren't always the best at using the crosswalk," he said.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/goZJQNj0-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Tim Kids Run Out" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Parents and the adults in kids' lives should remind&nbsp; youngsters to stay off their phones and use the crosswalk."Show them how to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street at the crosswalk," Greenwood said."But it's imperative that we as the drivers shoulder the burden (of watching out for the children.)"&nbsp;Accidents such as the one in Wichita are tragic for everyone involved, Greenwood said."It's even worse when children are involved," he said, "so please pay better attention to make sure we're not having any vehicle versus child accidents."Greenwood says the most important actions a driver can take are to "slow down, be alert, and stay off your phone."The pedestrian fatality is under investigation.&nbsp;

🎥 Hays Police: Watch for school kids darting into traffic   

By CRISTINA JANNEY&nbsp; Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission approved its 2024 budget for publication on Tuesday with a small mill decrease.

The $31 million budget will require an estimated mill levy of 37.045. That will include a decrease of .53 mills. However, that amount is subject to change when the final valuations are calculated later this year.

The budget includes&nbsp;$400,000 for the implementation of a wage study and paid time off program.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b693734-bd67-4648-bf34-ccb636b6d401">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Commission approves wage study in 2024 budget.</a>

The public hearing on the budget and the revenue-neutral rate hearing will be Sept. 12.

Although Hays only received about a half inch of rain during the weekend, Victoria received enough rain to require Cathedral Boulevard to be temporarily closed due to flooding.

A slab low water crossing at 150th Street is shut down because heavy rains caused a washout, Brendan Mackay, Ellis County Public Works director, told the county commission on Tuesday.

Once staff finishes the installation on the 260th box bridge within the next week and a half, they will move to repair the low water crossing at 150th,&nbsp;Mackay said.

The Victoria Community Coalition, which is working <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8f3bef55-5622-4d59-a380-ac8c6f9fc5f9">to remodel St. John's nursing home in Victoria</a>, told the commission it is working on paperwork to request a tax abatement on the property.

Marylin Braun of the coalition said the taxes on the building were $1,700 this year without improvements. The improvements will increase the value of that building, she said.

No formal request was made, and no vote was taken Tuesday.

Braun said the group hopes to begin construction on the project in December or January.

The Ellis County Environmental Services Department opened a new construction and demolition pit Wednesday.

This new cell is projected to last eight years, and future expansion cells are already planned for the property.&nbsp;

The new cell is at the Ellis County Landfill, 1515 W. 55th St., Hays.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9f0021fb-3360-44ed-9c6e-85af222c2a53">Read more on how to access the cell in this related story: New construction and demolition pit opens at Ellis County Landfill.</a>

The commission also approved the use of federal COVID relief funds to purchase a replacement intercom system for the landfill scale house and the replacement of the security gates to include a keypad/remote-activation system.&nbsp;

The combined cost of both bids is $26,775.

The commission also approved the vacation of St. Jacobs Street between 330th Avenue and Saeretza Street in Pfeifer and the replacement of skylights at the Ellis County Administration that were damaged in a hail storm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692209360107.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY&nbsp; Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission approved its 2024 budget for publication on Tuesday with a small mill decrease.The $31 million budget will require an estimated mill levy of 37.045. That will include a decrease of .53 mills. However, that amount is subject to change when the final valuations are calculated later this year.The budget includes&nbsp;$400,000 for the implementation of a wage study and paid time off program.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b693734-bd67-4648-bf34-ccb636b6d401">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Commission approves wage study in 2024 budget.</a>The public hearing on the budget and the revenue-neutral rate hearing will be Sept. 12.<h2>Flooding</h2>Although Hays only received about a half inch of rain during the weekend, Victoria received enough rain to require Cathedral Boulevard to be temporarily closed due to flooding.A slab low water crossing at 150th Street is shut down because heavy rains caused a washout, Brendan Mackay, Ellis County Public Works director, told the county commission on Tuesday.Once staff finishes the installation on the 260th box bridge within the next week and a half, they will move to repair the low water crossing at 150th,&nbsp;Mackay said.<h2>St. John's Place seeking tax abatement</h2>The Victoria Community Coalition, which is working <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8f3bef55-5622-4d59-a380-ac8c6f9fc5f9">to remodel St. John's nursing home in Victoria</a>, told the commission it is working on paperwork to request a tax abatement on the property.Marylin Braun of the coalition said the taxes on the building were $1,700 this year without improvements. The improvements will increase the value of that building, she said.No formal request was made, and no vote was taken Tuesday.Braun said the group hopes to begin construction on the project in December or January.<h2>Solid waste updates</h2>The Ellis County Environmental Services Department opened a new construction and demolition pit Wednesday.This new cell is projected to last eight years, and future expansion cells are already planned for the property.&nbsp;The new cell is at the Ellis County Landfill, 1515 W. 55th St., Hays.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9f0021fb-3360-44ed-9c6e-85af222c2a53">Read more on how to access the cell in this related story: New construction and demolition pit opens at Ellis County Landfill.</a>The commission also approved the use of federal COVID relief funds to purchase a replacement intercom system for the landfill scale house and the replacement of the security gates to include a keypad/remote-activation system.&nbsp;The combined cost of both bids is $26,775.The commission also approved the vacation of St. Jacobs Street between 330th Avenue and Saeretza Street in Pfeifer and the replacement of skylights at the Ellis County Administration that were damaged in a hail storm.

Ellis County approves $31M budget for publication with small mill levy decrease

More than 37 million adults in the United States have diabetes, and those who suffer from the disease know that it can be difficult to manage. If you’re one who battles diabetes, you have probably run into multiple roadblocks along the way. Maybe you consistently monitor your glucose, eat correctly, and exercise, yet still struggle with blood sugar control. 

Experiencing these frequent problems can interfere with daily living, impact mental health, and even lead to hospitalization or death. Learning how to manage diabetes is a continual process and unexpected barriers will arise on the journey. 

So, what do you do when doing all the right things doesn’t work?

Examine your daily routine. Keeping a journal of your habits may reveal the source of many blood sugar issues. A journal allows you to see patterns among the variables of your daily life such as blood sugar levels, types of foods, meal timing, mood, medications, and exercise.

Understanding the patterns of your glucose levels is a key reason to keep a diabetes journal. Being consistent is necessary, difficult, yet rewarding. For example, if you realize that nighttime episodes of hypoglycemia regularly occur when you are more active throughout the day, you might need to increase your intake to refuel and reduce the risk of your blood sugar plummeting at night.

A healthy diet is an essential part of diabetes management, but it can be difficult to remember what foods you eat. By consistently tracking your meals and snacks, you can identify foods that may spike your glucose levels. Over time, you may be surprised to see that certain foods have a greater (or less) impact on your blood sugar than you thought!

Mental health can be greatly affected by diabetes, and your mood may seem to be on a constant rollercoaster due to rapid blood sugar changes. Since mood can be an indication of glucose spikes and drops, it’s a good idea to take note of how you feel. This awareness can help you build a stronger connection between your mind, body, and diabetes management strategy.

When diagnosed with diabetes, medications are often prescribed. This addition can make a big impact on your daily routine. By keeping a record of medication, doses, and timing, you may be able to control glucose levels better. This also allows you to be aware of side effects or changes in symptoms so you can work with your doctor to make any necessary changes.

Regular exercise can play a major role in fluctuating glucose levels, and it has the ability to help you keep your diabetes in check. Keeping a log of your exercise routine can help you find the types of physical activity that help you feel your best and stay motivated to meet your fitness goals!

The recurring theme of a diabetes journal is awareness. Writing down your lifestyle habits gives you the opportunity to reflect on your daily routine with diabetes. It gives insight into your symptoms, and it allows you to identify habits that improve well-being and others that have a negative impact on health. 

Keeping a diabetes journal may be a big commitment, but it can help you solve many problems related to managing the disease.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.

<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>More than 37 million adults in the United States have diabetes, and those who suffer from the disease know that it can be difficult to manage. If you’re one who battles diabetes, you have probably run into multiple roadblocks along the way. Maybe you consistently monitor your glucose, eat correctly, and exercise, yet still struggle with blood sugar control. Experiencing these frequent problems can interfere with daily living, impact mental health, and even lead to hospitalization or death. Learning how to manage diabetes is a continual process and unexpected barriers will arise on the journey. So, what do you do when doing all the right things doesn’t work?Examine your daily routine. Keeping a journal of your habits may reveal the source of many blood sugar issues. A journal allows you to see patterns among the variables of your daily life such as blood sugar levels, types of foods, meal timing, mood, medications, and exercise.Blood SugarUnderstanding the patterns of your glucose levels is a key reason to keep a diabetes journal. Being consistent is necessary, difficult, yet rewarding. For example, if you realize that nighttime episodes of hypoglycemia regularly occur when you are more active throughout the day, you might need to increase your intake to refuel and reduce the risk of your blood sugar plummeting at night.Types of FoodsA healthy diet is an essential part of diabetes management, but it can be difficult to remember what foods you eat. By consistently tracking your meals and snacks, you can identify foods that may spike your glucose levels. Over time, you may be surprised to see that certain foods have a greater (or less) impact on your blood sugar than you thought!MoodMental health can be greatly affected by diabetes, and your mood may seem to be on a constant rollercoaster due to rapid blood sugar changes. Since mood can be an indication of glucose spikes and drops, it’s a good idea to take note of how you feel. This awareness can help you build a stronger connection between your mind, body, and diabetes management strategy.MedicationsWhen diagnosed with diabetes, medications are often prescribed. This addition can make a big impact on your daily routine. By keeping a record of medication, doses, and timing, you may be able to control glucose levels better. This also allows you to be aware of side effects or changes in symptoms so you can work with your doctor to make any necessary changes.ExerciseRegular exercise can play a major role in fluctuating glucose levels, and it has the ability to help you keep your diabetes in check. Keeping a log of your exercise routine can help you find the types of physical activity that help you feel your best and stay motivated to meet your fitness goals!The recurring theme of a diabetes journal is awareness. Writing down your lifestyle habits gives you the opportunity to reflect on your daily routine with diabetes. It gives insight into your symptoms, and it allows you to identify habits that improve well-being and others that have a negative impact on health. Keeping a diabetes journal may be a big commitment, but it can help you solve many problems related to managing the disease.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.

WINKEL: How to problem solve diabetes management

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692205059768.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.

ELLIS — On Tuesday at 7:07 p.m., officers from the Ellis Police Department were dispatched to Casey’s General Store, 213 Washington, in Ellis for a report of a robbery.

 The victim reported that two males in an SUV with Florida plates had taken money out of his hand and fled the area.&nbsp;

Officers arrived on scene shortly after the call was dispatched and searched the immediate area of the incident for the suspect vehicle.

 Officers gathered a description of the suspects and the vehicle they were in and had it broadcast to other law enforcement agencies in our area.

 The suspects were located at the 165 eastbound mile marker on Interstate 70 at about 7:19 p.m. by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

 Using a photograph of the suspects, the victim was able to confirm the suspects who were stopped were the ones involved in the incident.&nbsp;

The suspects were then identified as Ungurel Andrei Mutu, 32, of Romania and Dragos Iosif Grozavu, 31, also of Romania. 

A juvenile also was in the vehicle. Grozavu and Mutu were then placed under arrest without incident and transported to the Ellis County Jail, where they are being held on requested charges of robbery.

"I’d like to thank my officers for their quick response, as well as the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, and Hays Communications Center for their assistance with this case," Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, said.

"I’d also like to remind our citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity when it occurs," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221449405.png" alt="Mutu-photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Mutu-photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis Police DepartmentELLIS — On Tuesday at 7:07 p.m., officers from the Ellis Police Department were dispatched to Casey’s General Store, 213 Washington, in Ellis for a report of a robbery. The victim reported that two males in an SUV with Florida plates had taken money out of his hand and fled the area.&nbsp;Officers arrived on scene shortly after the call was dispatched and searched the immediate area of the incident for the suspect vehicle. Officers gathered a description of the suspects and the vehicle they were in and had it broadcast to other law enforcement agencies in our area. The suspects were located at the 165 eastbound mile marker on Interstate 70 at about 7:19 p.m. by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Using a photograph of the suspects, the victim was able to confirm the suspects who were stopped were the ones involved in the incident.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221509033.png" alt="Grozavu-photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Grozavu-photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The suspects were then identified as Ungurel Andrei Mutu, 32, of Romania and Dragos Iosif Grozavu, 31, also of Romania. A juvenile also was in the vehicle. Grozavu and Mutu were then placed under arrest without incident and transported to the Ellis County Jail, where they are being held on requested charges of robbery."I’d like to thank my officers for their quick response, as well as the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, and Hays Communications Center for their assistance with this case," Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, said."I’d also like to remind our citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity when it occurs," he said.

2 arrested following robbery in Ellis

THOMAS COUNTY – Over the past four weeks the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office worked alongside the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the Colby Police Department, and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) on an investigation involving the distribution and manufacturing of controlled substances, according to a media release from the KBI.

On Aug. 14 and Aug. 15, multiple search warrants were executed in Thomas County with assistance from the KBI High Risk Warrant Team, the KBI Clandestine Laboratory Team, and the Colby Police Department. Located during a search of a residence was methamphetamine, an active marijuana grow, and paraphernalia and other illegal items used in drug manufacturing.

Jensina Sporing, 39, of Colby, Kansas, was arrested on multiple requested felony charges including distribution of a controlled substance, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, unlawful drug proceeds from a transaction, use of a communication facility in the commission of a felony drug violation, and two counts of use or possess with the intent to use drug paraphernalia.

Lawrence Hapke, 47, also of Colby, was arrested on requested charges of possession of a controlled substance, use or possess with the intent to use drug paraphernalia, and interference with law enforcement.

The suspects were booked into the Thomas County Jail. Another arrest connected to this operation is expected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692217201020.png" alt="Hapke photo Thomas Co." />
 <figcaption>Hapke photo Thomas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>THOMAS COUNTY – Over the past four weeks the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office worked alongside the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the Colby Police Department, and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) on an investigation involving the distribution and manufacturing of controlled substances, according to a media release from the KBI.On Aug. 14 and Aug. 15, multiple search warrants were executed in Thomas County with assistance from the KBI High Risk Warrant Team, the KBI Clandestine Laboratory Team, and the Colby Police Department. Located during a search of a residence was methamphetamine, an active marijuana grow, and paraphernalia and other illegal items used in drug manufacturing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692217229186.png" alt="Sporing-photo Thomas Co." />
 <figcaption>Sporing-photo Thomas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jensina Sporing, 39, of Colby, Kansas, was arrested on multiple requested felony charges including distribution of a controlled substance, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, unlawful drug proceeds from a transaction, use of a communication facility in the commission of a felony drug violation, and two counts of use or possess with the intent to use drug paraphernalia.Lawrence Hapke, 47, also of Colby, was arrested on requested charges of possession of a controlled substance, use or possess with the intent to use drug paraphernalia, and interference with law enforcement.The suspects were booked into the Thomas County Jail. Another arrest connected to this operation is expected.

KBI finds meth, marijuana grow operation at NW Kan. home

Experts worry hoarding is on the rise in Kansas amid a lack of support for those who struggle with it, straining families and communities.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/rose-conlon">Rose Conlo</a>n <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KCUR</a>

WICHITA, Kansas&nbsp;— Before Beck Bright-Samarzia gets down to work, she suits up: back brace, gloves, N-95 mask.

Inching through one of her clients’ living rooms, between stacks of boxes and bins, she explains she used to wear an industrial-grade mask here — before they got the dust under control.

“It might look like not a lot has happened,” she said, “but so much has happened.”

Through her Wichita business, Paper Shift ICT, Bright-Samarzia helps people deal with their stuff — mostly when there’s way too much of it.

People call her after a loved one dies and it’s too overwhelming to sort through their belongings alone. Others need help gaining control of their own possessions, often due to mental illness or physical limitations.

Jamie Park, who lives here, deals with chronic pain. The house, just south of downtown Wichita, has been in her family for generations — and for generations, she said, her family has struggled with hoarding.

“It’s kind of crazy growing up in this environment,” she said. “I couldn’t see the floor growing up.”

Park and her family are among thousands of Kansans who deal with hoarding. It’s a problem that’s frequently depicted in the media, but mental health experts say it’s often misunderstood. And they worry hoarding is on the rise in Kansas due to the state’s demographic makeup and a scarcity of support for those who struggle with it.

Park, now in her 20s and a caregiver for her aging parents, is trying to break her family’s history of hoarding. Bright-Samarzia recently helped her clear out the laundry room so she could reach the washing machine. She’d been going to laundromats for years.

“Oftentimes, hoarding is generational,” said Bright-Samarzia, a former therapist. “People pass it down to their kids and their kids and their kids. But somewhere down the line, someone says, ‘Enough.’”

Down in the basement — where Park will soon move with her kids — the duo start sifting through a half century’s worth of memories, relics and junk: Old pay stubs. Abandoned baby toys. Tangles of unidentified wires.

Park steers clear of the more sentimental stuff.

“People think, ‘I have a lot of photos; I’m going to start with that,’” Bright-Samarzia said. “But you’re going to get stuck on memory lane. The feelings are going to come up regardless, but go through photo albums and mementos last.”

More than a decade ago, Bright-Samarzia got a call from a man who would become her first client. He asked whether she could help him sort through about 20 bankers boxes full of unopened mail. It had been building up for years.

After six months of chipping away after work and on weekends, they got it under control.

“Then I put him on quarterly maintenance,” she said.

Earlier this year, Bright-Samarzia decided to quit her job at a mental health professional education company to focus on her decluttering business full time.

The work can be intense, both physically and emotionally. She said a lot of people are reluctant to ask for help because they’re in denial about how bad the situation has become — or ashamed they can’t handle it on their own.

Even if they acknowledge they need to pare down their belongings, the process can stir up complicated feelings.

“For some people, getting rid of things is like throwing away a part of themselves,” she said. “It’s the support of the emotional side that is an enormous component to this.”

At its core, hoarding is a difficulty parting with things. It often also involves compulsive collecting.

It’s not always extreme, but it can be. When it begins to significantly interfere with a person’s ability to live their life or use their home, mental health professionals might diagnose them with a hoarding disorder.

People of all ages and backgrounds struggle with hoarding, but Wichita therapist Nancy Trout said issues with clutter often begin to appear in childhood and worsen with age as mobility issues make it harder for people to do the physical work of clearing it out. Grief and trauma can trigger or exacerbate the issue.

“The stuff becomes kind of a protective nest,” said Trout, who runs a monthly support group for people who struggle with hoarding.

She said hoarding often exists alongside other mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, and the issues can feed on themselves.

“Anxiety and depression may have been part of why the problem started,” she said, “but the fact that the&nbsp;hoard is still there makes people more anxious and depressed.”

She thinks most portrayals of hoarding in popular media — including the reality TV show&nbsp;Hoarders, where teams go in and gut the homes of people with extreme hoarding problems — don’t focus enough on the complex mental health issues at work. The hoarding often returns, she said, if those aren’t addressed.

“If someone is still acquiring, it doesn’t matter how much stuff they get rid of,” she said. “They will refill the space.”

But it can be hard for hoarders to get the mental health support they need — especially in Kansas, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-10-17/kansas-ranks-last-mental-illness-treatment" target="_blank">ranks among the worst states in the country</a>&nbsp;on access to mental health care.

Experts worry the lack of access, coupled with a fast-aging population, could fuel a rise in hoarding in the coming decades.

Most estimates peg the prevalence of hoarding at around 2.5% of the general population, says Randy Frost, a professor emeritus of psychology at Smith College and longtime expert on the disorder. But among older adults, the prevalence is likely much higher.

“The behavior itself appears to start early in life,” Frost said. “But, most of the time, when we see someone with a clinically significant hoarding problem, they tend to be older.”

The number of Kansans 65 and older grew 30% between 2010 and 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cedbr.org/component/content/article/1884-economic-outlook-kansas-city-2023-may-revision-2?catid=120&amp;Itemid=238" target="_blank">New projections by Wichita State University</a>&nbsp;predict that age cohort will grow the fastest over the next 50 years — more than twice as fast as younger cohorts.

Research has also identified a link between hoarding and loneliness — which experts say can exacerbate older adults’ already elevated rates of social isolation. Frost says the disorder can drive a wedge between a hoarder and their family.

“As the person with hoarding gets older, their adult children have a great deal of difficulty trying to convince them to improve the state of their home,” he said.

At some point, family members might get so frustrated that they refuse to visit the hoarder’s home — or arguments might get so bitter that the hoarder stops allowing them to visit.

“Once that happens, the clutter tends to get worse,” Frost said.

Untreated hoarding among older adults can put more pressure on social services and create problems in the broader community. Out-of-control clutter makes it difficult — and dangerous — for first responders to reach people in distress. It can also create fire hazards.

“It’s the really severe hoarding situations that cause the most health and safety problems,” said Trout, the Wichita therapist. “They can also cause problems for the neighbors.”

She and other experts want to see Kansas invest more in addressing the unique problems older adults face in managing their homes, whether or not they have a clinically diagnosable disorder. And, they say, officials need to do more to ensure people of all ages can access mental health care to help treat problems before they become serious.

Rose Conlon reports on health for KMUW and the Kansas News Service.

The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, KMUW, Kansas Public Radio and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692214867921.png" alt="Beck Bright-Samarzia helps people manage their clutter through her Wichita business Paper Shift ICT. One of her clients is Jamie Park, whose family struggles with hoarding.&nbsp;Rose Conlon/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Beck Bright-Samarzia helps people manage their clutter through her Wichita business Paper Shift ICT. One of her clients is Jamie Park, whose family struggles with hoarding.&nbsp;Rose Conlon/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Experts worry hoarding is on the rise in Kansas amid a lack of support for those who struggle with it, straining families and communities.</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/rose-conlon">Rose Conlo</a>n <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KCUR</a> WICHITA, Kansas&nbsp;— Before Beck Bright-Samarzia gets down to work, she suits up: back brace, gloves, N-95 mask.Inching through one of her clients’ living rooms, between stacks of boxes and bins, she explains she used to wear an industrial-grade mask here — before they got the dust under control.“It might look like not a lot has happened,” she said, “but so much has happened.”Through her Wichita business, Paper Shift ICT, Bright-Samarzia helps people deal with their stuff — mostly when there’s way too much of it.People call her after a loved one dies and it’s too overwhelming to sort through their belongings alone. Others need help gaining control of their own possessions, often due to mental illness or physical limitations.Jamie Park, who lives here, deals with chronic pain. The house, just south of downtown Wichita, has been in her family for generations — and for generations, she said, her family has struggled with hoarding.“It’s kind of crazy growing up in this environment,” she said. “I couldn’t see the floor growing up.”Park and her family are among thousands of Kansans who deal with hoarding. It’s a problem that’s frequently depicted in the media, but mental health experts say it’s often misunderstood. And they worry hoarding is on the rise in Kansas due to the state’s demographic makeup and a scarcity of support for those who struggle with it.<h2>A generational problem</h2>Park, now in her 20s and a caregiver for her aging parents, is trying to break her family’s history of hoarding. Bright-Samarzia recently helped her clear out the laundry room so she could reach the washing machine. She’d been going to laundromats for years.“Oftentimes, hoarding is generational,” said Bright-Samarzia, a former therapist. “People pass it down to their kids and their kids and their kids. But somewhere down the line, someone says, ‘Enough.’”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692214955468.png" alt="Jamie Park hired Bright-Samarzia to help clear out decades of clutter from her family’s house.&nbsp;Rose Conlon/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Park hired Bright-Samarzia to help clear out decades of clutter from her family’s house.&nbsp;Rose Conlon/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Down in the basement — where Park will soon move with her kids — the duo start sifting through a half century’s worth of memories, relics and junk: Old pay stubs. Abandoned baby toys. Tangles of unidentified wires.Park steers clear of the more sentimental stuff.“People think, ‘I have a lot of photos; I’m going to start with that,’” Bright-Samarzia said. “But you’re going to get stuck on memory lane. The feelings are going to come up regardless, but go through photo albums and mementos last.”<h2>A budding business</h2>More than a decade ago, Bright-Samarzia got a call from a man who would become her first client. He asked whether she could help him sort through about 20 bankers boxes full of unopened mail. It had been building up for years.After six months of chipping away after work and on weekends, they got it under control.“Then I put him on quarterly maintenance,” she said.Earlier this year, Bright-Samarzia decided to quit her job at a mental health professional education company to focus on her decluttering business full time.The work can be intense, both physically and emotionally. She said a lot of people are reluctant to ask for help because they’re in denial about how bad the situation has become — or ashamed they can’t handle it on their own.Even if they acknowledge they need to pare down their belongings, the process can stir up complicated feelings.“For some people, getting rid of things is like throwing away a part of themselves,” she said. “It’s the support of the emotional side that is an enormous component to this.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692215128021.png" alt="Bright-Samarzia helps Park sift through decades of belongings in her family’s basement, where Park will soon move with her kids.&nbsp;Rose Conlon/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Bright-Samarzia helps Park sift through decades of belongings in her family’s basement, where Park will soon move with her kids.&nbsp;Rose Conlon/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>What is hoarding?</h2>At its core, hoarding is a difficulty parting with things. It often also involves compulsive collecting.It’s not always extreme, but it can be. When it begins to significantly interfere with a person’s ability to live their life or use their home, mental health professionals might diagnose them with a hoarding disorder.People of all ages and backgrounds struggle with hoarding, but Wichita therapist Nancy Trout said issues with clutter often begin to appear in childhood and worsen with age as mobility issues make it harder for people to do the physical work of clearing it out. Grief and trauma can trigger or exacerbate the issue.“The stuff becomes kind of a protective nest,” said Trout, who runs a monthly support group for people who struggle with hoarding.She said hoarding often exists alongside other mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, and the issues can feed on themselves.“Anxiety and depression may have been part of why the problem started,” she said, “but the fact that the&nbsp;hoard is still there makes people more anxious and depressed.”She thinks most portrayals of hoarding in popular media — including the reality TV show&nbsp;Hoarders, where teams go in and gut the homes of people with extreme hoarding problems — don’t focus enough on the complex mental health issues at work. The hoarding often returns, she said, if those aren’t addressed.“If someone is still acquiring, it doesn’t matter how much stuff they get rid of,” she said. “They will refill the space.”<h2>Aging population, lacking support</h2>But it can be hard for hoarders to get the mental health support they need — especially in Kansas, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-10-17/kansas-ranks-last-mental-illness-treatment" target="_blank">ranks among the worst states in the country</a>&nbsp;on access to mental health care.Experts worry the lack of access, coupled with a fast-aging population, could fuel a rise in hoarding in the coming decades.Most estimates peg the prevalence of hoarding at around 2.5% of the general population, says Randy Frost, a professor emeritus of psychology at Smith College and longtime expert on the disorder. But among older adults, the prevalence is likely much higher.“The behavior itself appears to start early in life,” Frost said. “But, most of the time, when we see someone with a clinically significant hoarding problem, they tend to be older.”The number of Kansans 65 and older grew 30% between 2010 and 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cedbr.org/component/content/article/1884-economic-outlook-kansas-city-2023-may-revision-2?catid=120&amp;Itemid=238" target="_blank">New projections by Wichita State University</a>&nbsp;predict that age cohort will grow the fastest over the next 50 years — more than twice as fast as younger cohorts.Research has also identified a link between hoarding and loneliness — which experts say can exacerbate older adults’ already elevated rates of social isolation. Frost says the disorder can drive a wedge between a hoarder and their family.“As the person with hoarding gets older, their adult children have a great deal of difficulty trying to convince them to improve the state of their home,” he said.At some point, family members might get so frustrated that they refuse to visit the hoarder’s home — or arguments might get so bitter that the hoarder stops allowing them to visit.“Once that happens, the clutter tends to get worse,” Frost said.Untreated hoarding among older adults can put more pressure on social services and create problems in the broader community. Out-of-control clutter makes it difficult — and dangerous — for first responders to reach people in distress. It can also create fire hazards.“It’s the really severe hoarding situations that cause the most health and safety problems,” said Trout, the Wichita therapist. “They can also cause problems for the neighbors.”She and other experts want to see Kansas invest more in addressing the unique problems older adults face in managing their homes, whether or not they have a clinically diagnosable disorder. And, they say, officials need to do more to ensure people of all ages can access mental health care to help treat problems before they become serious.Rose Conlon reports on health for KMUW and the Kansas News Service.The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, KMUW, Kansas Public Radio and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

Aging population, scarce mental health care put more Kansans at risk of hoarding

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