By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Students at Westside School in Hays have created Blessing Bag for students who are in foster care.

Angie Ward, Westside high school teacher, said the students developed this as a kindness project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Westside is an alternative school that helps students who may have emotional difficulties that make it difficult for them to attend full-time in a traditional classroom.

Westside staff members presented to the school board during a recent meeting.

"[We created this project] in honor of one of our classmates, who came to Westside because of a foster care placement. Even though he was in a tough spot, we watched him succeed. ​In his four months at our school, he completed seven classes," a Westside student said in a prerecorded presentation.

Another student said, "We want to help other students in a tough spot, know that someone​ believes in them!"

The students brainstormed on what kind of items would help students reduce stress. They also developed a budget for the project. The students determined they could purchase items for 16 bags with funds they received from Ana's Gift.

The students shopped for the items themselves and kept a running total to make sure they remained within budget.

All of&nbsp;the bags included hygiene items, pajamas, stationary&nbsp;​and "My Big Notebook," which is a book that helps students deal with their emotions.

The students decorated the bags using vinyl that was donated by the foster mom of one of their classmates and added special messages to the front of each notebook.​

"You are special, and no one else is like you. You have potential in life, so work hard and earn your education. I wish you good luck and best wishes," one of the students said in his note.

Lindy McDaniel, assistant director of special education, said the students in the program have grown a lot this year.&nbsp;

"And we've grown a lot listening to our students," she said.

McDaniel said the Westside staff is learning how to offer more empathy to the students who are in foster care and served in the Westside program.

One of the students who is in the program at Westside and also a foster child shared he had been in six different high schools during his freshman year.

"He said, 'Miss Lindy, I feel like I'm a UPS package that has been shipped all over the state. This is the first time I've found a home,'" McDaniel said.

The program was made possible through a grant from Ana's Gift, which is funded by Stan and Lori Hertel, a USD 489 school board member.

Ana, the Hertels' daughter, began her project by collecting stuffed animals for emergency responders. Then, unfortunately, her disease, Multiple Pterygium Syndrome, took her life. She died on February 10, 2010.

Her generosity through Ana’s Gift helped many children who were experiencing traumatic situations. She was very proud of the influence she had on children, according to a release from USD 489. Following her passing, her parents decided to take Ana’s mission in life and carry it on. Ana's Gift continues to fund projects at USD 489.

EyeSMILE of Hays and "Big Notebook" authors JC and Carla Carlisle also donated to the program, which allowed the students to create four more Blessing Bags.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684852773641.png" alt="Westside School students shop for items for blessing bags for foster kids. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Westside School students shop for items for blessing bags for foster kids. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostStudents at Westside School in Hays have created Blessing Bag for students who are in foster care.Angie Ward, Westside high school teacher, said the students developed this as a kindness project.&nbsp;&nbsp;Westside is an alternative school that helps students who may have emotional difficulties that make it difficult for them to attend full-time in a traditional classroom.Westside staff members presented to the school board during a recent meeting."[We created this project] in honor of one of our classmates, who came to Westside because of a foster care placement. Even though he was in a tough spot, we watched him succeed. ​In his four months at our school, he completed seven classes," a Westside student said in a prerecorded presentation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684852809789.png" alt="The Blessing Bags contain hygiene items, pajamas, a notebook and a book on dealing with your emotions. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Blessing Bags contain hygiene items, pajamas, a notebook and a book on dealing with your emotions. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Another student said, "We want to help other students in a tough spot, know that someone​ believes in them!"The students brainstormed on what kind of items would help students reduce stress. They also developed a budget for the project. The students determined they could purchase items for 16 bags with funds they received from Ana's Gift.The students shopped for the items themselves and kept a running total to make sure they remained within budget.All of&nbsp;the bags included hygiene items, pajamas, stationary&nbsp;​and "My Big Notebook," which is a book that helps students deal with their emotions.The students decorated the bags using vinyl that was donated by the foster mom of one of their classmates and added special messages to the front of each notebook.​"You are special, and no one else is like you. You have potential in life, so work hard and earn your education. I wish you good luck and best wishes," one of the students said in his note.Lindy McDaniel, assistant director of special education, said the students in the program have grown a lot this year.&nbsp;"And we've grown a lot listening to our students," she said.McDaniel said the Westside staff is learning how to offer more empathy to the students who are in foster care and served in the Westside program.One of the students who is in the program at Westside and also a foster child shared he had been in six different high schools during his freshman year."He said, 'Miss Lindy, I feel like I'm a UPS package that has been shipped all over the state. This is the first time I've found a home,'" McDaniel said.The program was made possible through a grant from Ana's Gift, which is funded by Stan and Lori Hertel, a USD 489 school board member.Ana, the Hertels' daughter, began her project by collecting stuffed animals for emergency responders. Then, unfortunately, her disease, Multiple Pterygium Syndrome, took her life. She died on February 10, 2010.Her generosity through Ana’s Gift helped many children who were experiencing traumatic situations. She was very proud of the influence she had on children, according to a release from USD 489. Following her passing, her parents decided to take Ana’s mission in life and carry it on. Ana's Gift continues to fund projects at USD 489.EyeSMILE of Hays and "Big Notebook" authors JC and Carla Carlisle also donated to the program, which allowed the students to create four more Blessing Bags.

Hays USD 489 Westside students create Blessing Bags for foster kids

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District </a>agent Stacy Campbell discusses the upcoming Ellis County Wheat Demonstration Plot Field Day.

More from the <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension District:</a>

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c09ba6de-efe7-4d5b-9f0c-0ef29e34fca9" target="_blank">Ellis County Wheat Plot Field Day</a> will be Thursday, June 1, beginning at 6 p.m.

A complimentary meal and refreshments will be provided courtesy of sponsors. RSVPs are appreciated by Friday, May 26, to help with meal count. 

Please register at <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77nUUU6CSmIqJN4" target="_blank">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77nUUU6CSmIqJN4</a> call 785-628-9430 or email Theresa&nbsp;tam3@ksu.edu

Neil Gottschalk is the farmer cooperator. 

The location is at the intersection of Golf Course Road and 180th Avenue, turn south onto 180th Avenue and go 1.5 miles.

In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the Agricultural Research Center, Hays Auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.

<div><iframe title="Ellis County Wheat Demonstration Plot Field Day set for June 1" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=88uej-1418798-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District </a>agent Stacy Campbell discusses the upcoming Ellis County Wheat Demonstration Plot Field Day.More from the <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension District:</a>The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c09ba6de-efe7-4d5b-9f0c-0ef29e34fca9" target="_blank">Ellis County Wheat Plot Field Day</a> will be Thursday, June 1, beginning at 6 p.m.A complimentary meal and refreshments will be provided courtesy of sponsors. RSVPs are appreciated by Friday, May 26, to help with meal count. Please register at <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77nUUU6CSmIqJN4" target="_blank">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77nUUU6CSmIqJN4</a> call 785-628-9430 or email Theresa&nbsp;tam3@ksu.eduNeil Gottschalk is the farmer cooperator. The location is at the intersection of Golf Course Road and 180th Avenue, turn south onto 180th Avenue and go 1.5 miles.In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the Agricultural Research Center, Hays Auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis County Wheat Demonstration Plot Field Day set for June 1

In an effort to protect one of Hays’ most vital and limited
resources, water, summer restrictions will again be put in place within the
city beginning June 1.

Before Sept. 30, outdoor water use will be prohibited from
noon to 7 p.m. in addition to the year-long restrictions against washing hard
surfaces and letting water flow off the property.

“Water conservation is critically
important to making sure that when we turn the faucet on, we've got water on
tap,” said <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/369/Police">Hays Police Department</a>
Lt. Brandon Wright. “We've had laws in place since, I think, the 1990s,
controlling and trying to promote water conservation.

As the enforcement agency of
the restrictions, he said the department has escalating penalties for
violations.

A first violation will result
in a warning. A second will incur a $50 fine, a third will incur a $200 penalty,
and further infractions will generate a $250 fine.

“It is
not very common for us to get to that point where we're writing those tickets
that have a $250 tag on them,” Wright said. “Most of the time, it's resolved
way before that. We don't have that happen very often. So, people are overall
pretty understanding, I think, once we explain how important it is.”

While
educational in nature, the enforcement will be from members of the police department,
with Community Service Officers especially looking for violations while on patrol.

“That's
one of their primary functions is to look for and address water wasting issues,”
Wright said.

While water restriction enforcement comes up daily for the
department, Wright said education is their main priority. Still, the ordinance will
be enforced as needed.

“Officers don't enjoy writing
citations for water wasting,” Wright said. “That's not something that they
enjoy doing. But the police department is the primary enforcement agency for
making sure that these ordinances are followed.

“Most
typical enforcement comes from a contact from one of our police officers or one
of our community service officers. It may be an educational stop, but if
there's a violation, (we) try to be consistently firm and fair with the enforcement
or the ordinance.”

For
those special use cases, Wright said, permits are issued through the city of
Hays.

“I know
of a lot of commercial entities that do that for maintenance on their
properties, but that's got to be permitted,” Wright said. “So, if you need to
do something like that, you've got to contact city hall, the clerk's office, I
believe, to look for a permit.”

Restrictions
are also applied to those using well water.

Water conservation specialist
Holly Dickman said that importance is a feature of the water sources that serve
Hays.

“We rely
on eluvial aquifers around the Smoky Hill River primarily and Big Creek,” Dickman
said. “Those are fairly shallow aquifers. And so, as you might acknowledge, is
that when we do not get significant rainfall, then those well levels can
decline over time.”

In 2023
the <a href="https://www.hays.k-state.edu/weather/index.html">K-State Research and Extension</a> office recorded 3.04 inches of rain for the
year, under the average 4.57 inch total. Last year they reported Hays received 7.17
under the average 23.46 inches.

“We are
currently in exceptional drought,” Dickman said. “The last time we were in
exceptional drought was back in 2012-2013. So just because we get a little bit
of rain doesn't mean that we're instantly out of drought. It will take
significant rainfall to bring us out of that.”

Long-time
conversation efforts helped negate the drought then, meaning the extreme
measures in the '90s were not needed.

“Back in
the '90s, they were telling people there was no outdoor watering allowed,”
Wright said. “Then, they had a program where they were encouraging people not
to flush their toilets, the water levels were so low. So, we don't want to ever
get back to that place.”

And
Dickman said despite limited water resources, Hays remains in great shape thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.

“We are
the only municipality with more than 15,000 people that is not located near a
sustainable source of water,” she said. “So that's why water conservation is such
a big deal here.”

Generally, Hays residents have
been receptive to the need, according to Hays Police Department Chief Don Scheibler.

“It has
become a way of life for the Hays community,” he said. “The city of Hays has
changed the culture on how we conserve water. ... That's been very huge for us. And
people understand the rules now, and they're receptive to that. They understand
the importance of it, and they support it. So, we do appreciate the community's
willingness to comply with these restrictions.”

The fear
of the taps running dry, dating back nearly 30 years, spurred those
conversations, Dickman said.

“That's
when water conservation took off. And speaking to that, we tried to talk to all
age groups,” she said. “Speaking to kids through adults, we're talking
about it all the time. The city of Hays has become a leader in water
conservation because of all those efforts throughout the years.”

It
is more than just using less water, she said, as the city actively promotes using
water as efficiently as possible through various programs.

“There's
a lot more stuff on the (c<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/160/Water-Conservation">ity of Hays</a>) website
about other conservation approaches that are just as important or more
important,” Wright said.

“If
you're saving it, you can use it for something else,” Dickman said.

Those
programs include rebates for water smart appliances, low-flow adapters, and turf
conversation rebates.

“Fescue
lawns, which aren't very well suited to the area, take a lot of water to keep
green,” Wright said. “A lot of conversion over to warm season grasses are going
on and from that to the low-flow toilets and faucets, and all of those things.
There's lots of stuff on the website about water conservation as a whole.”

With
the success of Hays programs, other cities are turning to Hays as an example of
using water efficiently.

“Other municipalities
are coming to us now for advice,” Dickman said. “That's always a good thing. It
just goes to show how, since the early '90s, we've been focused on this, and it
really has paid off.

“A lot
of the history and the questions about some of those topics, <a href="https://www.watersmarthays.com/">watersmarthays.com</a> kind of goes into
some of that, as far as our rebate programs linked to the financial side of
things with our water rates and those sorts of things. Watersmarthays.com is
a good starting point to answer some of those questions. And, of course, people
can always contact me if they have further questions or are interested in some
of the rebate programs.”

And even
with recent developments in the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/021a5674-353e-46c4-b816-42284ec8514b">R9 Ranch
water project</a> that will bring an additional water source into Hays, conservation
will remain a focus in the Hays community.

“The R9 Ranch
provides a lot more possibilities that will help us, but our way of conserving
is not going to diminish, and we're not going to change anything there,”
Dickman said. “We're always going to take that seriously. But it will provide
the additional water source will provide a lot of opportunities that we can't
pursue now.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684247338476.jpg" alt="&nbsp; Image by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/distelapparath-2726923/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4778601">Markus Distelrath</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4778601">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Image by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/distelapparath-2726923/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4778601">Markus Distelrath</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4778601">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIn an effort to protect one of Hays’ most vital and limited
resources, water, summer restrictions will again be put in place within the
city beginning June 1.Before Sept. 30, outdoor water use will be prohibited from
noon to 7 p.m. in addition to the year-long restrictions against washing hard
surfaces and letting water flow off the property.“Water conservation is critically
important to making sure that when we turn the faucet on, we've got water on
tap,” said <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/369/Police">Hays Police Department</a>
Lt. Brandon Wright. “We've had laws in place since, I think, the 1990s,
controlling and trying to promote water conservation.<div><iframe title="Hays summer water restrictions to begin June 1" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qgbpe-1416d69-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315"></iframe></div>As the enforcement agency of
the restrictions, he said the department has escalating penalties for
violations.A first violation will result
in a warning. A second will incur a $50 fine, a third will incur a $200 penalty,
and further infractions will generate a $250 fine.“It is
not very common for us to get to that point where we're writing those tickets
that have a $250 tag on them,” Wright said. “Most of the time, it's resolved
way before that. We don't have that happen very often. So, people are overall
pretty understanding, I think, once we explain how important it is.”While
educational in nature, the enforcement will be from members of the police department,
with Community Service Officers especially looking for violations while on patrol.“That's
one of their primary functions is to look for and address water wasting issues,”
Wright said.While water restriction enforcement comes up daily for the
department, Wright said education is their main priority. Still, the ordinance will
be enforced as needed.“Officers don't enjoy writing
citations for water wasting,” Wright said. “That's not something that they
enjoy doing. But the police department is the primary enforcement agency for
making sure that these ordinances are followed.“Most
typical enforcement comes from a contact from one of our police officers or one
of our community service officers. It may be an educational stop, but if
there's a violation, (we) try to be consistently firm and fair with the enforcement
or the ordinance.”Violations
are tracked for 24 months.For
those special use cases, Wright said, permits are issued through the city of
Hays.“I know
of a lot of commercial entities that do that for maintenance on their
properties, but that's got to be permitted,” Wright said. “So, if you need to
do something like that, you've got to contact city hall, the clerk's office, I
believe, to look for a permit.”Restrictions
are also applied to those using well water.Water conservation specialist
Holly Dickman said that importance is a feature of the water sources that serve
Hays.“We rely
on eluvial aquifers around the Smoky Hill River primarily and Big Creek,” Dickman
said. “Those are fairly shallow aquifers. And so, as you might acknowledge, is
that when we do not get significant rainfall, then those well levels can
decline over time.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684858807455.png" alt="The&nbsp;<a href="https://drought.unl.edu/">National Drought Mitigation Center</a>, a collaboration between&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?KS">University of Nebraska-Lincoln</a>, <a href="https://www.usda.gov/">the United States Department of Agriculture</a> and the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a>, shows Ellis County and much of Northwest Kansas in exceptional drought conditions.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The&nbsp;<a href="https://drought.unl.edu/">National Drought Mitigation Center</a>, a collaboration between&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?KS">University of Nebraska-Lincoln</a>, <a href="https://www.usda.gov/">the United States Department of Agriculture</a> and the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a>, shows Ellis County and much of Northwest Kansas in exceptional drought conditions.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2023
the <a href="https://www.hays.k-state.edu/weather/index.html">K-State Research and Extension</a> office recorded 3.04 inches of rain for the
year, under the average 4.57 inch total. Last year they reported Hays received 7.17
under the average 23.46 inches.“We are
currently in exceptional drought,” Dickman said. “The last time we were in
exceptional drought was back in 2012-2013. So just because we get a little bit
of rain doesn't mean that we're instantly out of drought. It will take
significant rainfall to bring us out of that.”Long-time
conversation efforts helped negate the drought then, meaning the extreme
measures in the '90s were not needed.“Back in
the '90s, they were telling people there was no outdoor watering allowed,”
Wright said. “Then, they had a program where they were encouraging people not
to flush their toilets, the water levels were so low. So, we don't want to ever
get back to that place.”And
Dickman said despite limited water resources, Hays remains in great shape thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.“We are
the only municipality with more than 15,000 people that is not located near a
sustainable source of water,” she said. “So that's why water conservation is such
a big deal here.”Generally, Hays residents have
been receptive to the need, according to Hays Police Department Chief Don Scheibler.“It has
become a way of life for the Hays community,” he said. “The city of Hays has
changed the culture on how we conserve water. ... That's been very huge for us. And
people understand the rules now, and they're receptive to that. They understand
the importance of it, and they support it. So, we do appreciate the community's
willingness to comply with these restrictions.”The fear
of the taps running dry, dating back nearly 30 years, spurred those
conversations, Dickman said.“That's
when water conservation took off. And speaking to that, we tried to talk to all
age groups,” she said. “Speaking to kids through adults, we're talking
about it all the time. The city of Hays has become a leader in water
conservation because of all those efforts throughout the years.”It
is more than just using less water, she said, as the city actively promotes using
water as efficiently as possible through various programs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684859817553.jpeg" alt="Water conservation efforts by the city of Hays' Water Resources Department are detailed at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.watersmarthays.com/">watersmarthays.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Water conservation efforts by the city of Hays' Water Resources Department are detailed at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.watersmarthays.com/">watersmarthays.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>“There's
a lot more stuff on the (c<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/160/Water-Conservation">ity of Hays</a>) website
about other conservation approaches that are just as important or more
important,” Wright said.“If
you're saving it, you can use it for something else,” Dickman said.Those
programs include rebates for water smart appliances, low-flow adapters, and turf
conversation rebates.“Fescue
lawns, which aren't very well suited to the area, take a lot of water to keep
green,” Wright said. “A lot of conversion over to warm season grasses are going
on and from that to the low-flow toilets and faucets, and all of those things.
There's lots of stuff on the website about water conservation as a whole.”With
the success of Hays programs, other cities are turning to Hays as an example of
using water efficiently.“Other municipalities
are coming to us now for advice,” Dickman said. “That's always a good thing. It
just goes to show how, since the early '90s, we've been focused on this, and it
really has paid off.“A lot
of the history and the questions about some of those topics, <a href="https://www.watersmarthays.com/">watersmarthays.com</a> kind of goes into
some of that, as far as our rebate programs linked to the financial side of
things with our water rates and those sorts of things. Watersmarthays.com is
a good starting point to answer some of those questions. And, of course, people
can always contact me if they have further questions or are interested in some
of the rebate programs.”And even
with recent developments in the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/021a5674-353e-46c4-b816-42284ec8514b">R9 Ranch
water project</a> that will bring an additional water source into Hays, conservation
will remain a focus in the Hays community.“The R9 Ranch
provides a lot more possibilities that will help us, but our way of conserving
is not going to diminish, and we're not going to change anything there,”
Dickman said. “We're always going to take that seriously. But it will provide
the additional water source will provide a lot of opportunities that we can't
pursue now.”

🎙 Water conservation restrictions for summer begin in Hays June 1; drought persists

🎥 Green and Growing: Irrigation

German wedding dinner part of June 3 Fidelis Fest in Victoria

KSU Agricultural Research Center 1232 240th Ave, Hays, KS 67601 8&nbsp;a.m.-1 p.m. - Thursday, May 25, 2023

The&nbsp;event is free. Join us even if you didn't register.

8:40 a.m.: Meeting kickoff and quick overview –&nbsp;Aaron Harries, VP of Research and Operations, Kansas Wheat

9:00-9:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Guorong Zhang: Wheat research for western Kansas

9:30 a.m.: Transport to long term fertility x rotation plots

9:40-10:10 a.m.:&nbsp;Augustine Obour: What we have learned after 48 years of tillage and N fertility management research

10:10 a.m.: Transport to wheat agronomy plots

10:20-10:50 a.m.:&nbsp;Romulo Lollato: Wheat agronomy intensification for combined food security and environmental stewardship

10:50-11:20 a.m.:&nbsp;Kelsey Onofre: Wheat disease update and management

11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Lucas Haag: Economics of wheat production

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684771413683.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Wheat Commission KSU Agricultural Research Center 1232 240th Ave, Hays, KS 67601 8&nbsp;a.m.-1 p.m. - Thursday, May 25, 2023The&nbsp;event is free. Join us even if you didn't register.<h2>May 25 Schedule</h2>8:00 a.m.: Coffee and registration8:40 a.m.: Meeting kickoff and quick overview –&nbsp;Aaron Harries, VP of Research and Operations, Kansas Wheat8:50 a.m.: Transport to breeding plots9:00-9:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Guorong Zhang: Wheat research for western Kansas<ul>
 <li>Wheat Varieties and Promising Line for Western Kansas</li><li>Wheat Streak Mosaic Disease Research</li><li>Improvement of Wheat Quality</li>
 </ul>9:30 a.m.: Transport to long term fertility x rotation plots9:40-10:10 a.m.:&nbsp;Augustine Obour: What we have learned after 48 years of tillage and N fertility management research<ul>
 <li>N Fertilizer and Tillage Practice Effects on Wheat Yields and Protein Concentration</li><li>Tillage Practice and N Fertilizer Impacts on Soil pH Stratification, Nutrient Availability and Uptake</li><li>Challenges of Long-Term No-Tillage Systems Despite Improvements in Soil Properties</li>
 </ul>10:10 a.m.: Transport to wheat agronomy plots10:20-10:50 a.m.:&nbsp;Romulo Lollato: Wheat agronomy intensification for combined food security and environmental stewardship<ul>
 <li>Overview of Variety x Management Trials at the Hays Research Station&nbsp;</li><li>The role of wheat agronomy for simultaniously improving yield and quality</li><li>Producing more wheat with lower environment footprint</li>
 </ul>10:50-11:20 a.m.:&nbsp;Kelsey Onofre: Wheat disease update and management11:20 a.m.: Transport to facility11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Lucas Haag: Economics of wheat production12:00 p.m.: Lunch

Wheat Rx Field Day in Hays is Thursday at KSU Ag Research Center

<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/2023/5/1684849184142.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

Tony Ballard, a Kansas inmate, has turned a 25-year sentence into a passion to teach other inmates critical-thinking skills through the Gift of Chess.

Tony Ballard, who is an inmate with Wichita work release, has been traveling to other correctional facilities within the state, including recently Stockton and Norton correctional facilities, to facilitate chess tournaments.

Several years ago, when he was in segregation in the prison system, Ballard picked up the game of chess.

"The more I got better at the game, the more I felt the skills that I was using could be applied to my life," he said. 

"Those skills are critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, decision-making skills and pattern-recognition skills. [These are] all skills in society that employers call soft skills, but skills that most of those who are incarcerated didn't have."

Ballard called himself a guinea pig in his own experiment as he tried to apply the skills he was learning through chess in his life.

"Lo and behold, I had success there as well as I started to take my time and respond and then react and be more responsive rather than impulsive, be decisive, strategic and goal set," he said.

He and other inmates had already played in an intercontinental chess tournament online when he approached Capt. Kevin Oneth of the Kansas Department of Corrections and then Jeff Zmuda, Kanas Secretary Of the Department of Corrections.

Ballard gave Zmuda an elevator pitch, and he was open and accepting to the idea of starting a chess outreach program within the Kansas correctional system.

Oneth, in addition to being the administrative captain at the Wichita Work Release, became the statewide coordinator for the Gift of Chess.

The program began with a tournament at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility in December, which was quickly followed by more events across the state.

"The response by the residents at each of the facilities has been phenomenal. They love it. They never expected something like that to happen," Oneth said.

Although he said the inmates come to the tournaments unsure of what to expect, they leave with smiles and high fives, Oneth said.

"The attitudes are just so positive and appreciative," he said.

As Ballard had said about himself, Oneth said he has seen growth in critical-thinking skills among those inmates who have participated in the program.

"They are able to think about doing things rather than just reacting," he said.

This matches with corrections' Resident Conduct Action Plans, which help inmates think through the consequences of their behaviors in lieu of receiving stiffer disciplinary actions.

"A lot of men who are in prison have come here because of impulsive behavior, driven and fueled by drugs and alcohol," Ballard said. "Chess moves us away from that impulsive thinking to more rational decision-making.&nbsp;

"The goal is to make academic atmospheres within our facilities where thinking, decision-making, smarts, intelligence is celebrated over the brute and the brawn."

Ballard wasn't always the guy who was making good decisions, by his own admission.

Ballard, 45, is in prison on a conviction for attempted first-degree murder. He's been in prison since he was 25.

Ballard, who is originally from Hutchinson, was selling and doing drugs. Someone tried to rob him, and he retaliated by firing a gun at the other party. He missed but was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

"People would always say, 'Man, what were you thinking?'" he said. "Every mistake, every crime, every bad choice I made in life, they were 'What were you thinking?'

"The problem was I wasn't thinking. When I started playing chess, it made me want to start using those thinking skills."

He said chess gave him the confidence and self-esteem to make good choices. He had to earn his way to work release, which he said is a path to his eventual freedom.

"Over the years, I have developed virtues and discipline that I don't think I could have got anywhere else," he said. "I didn't have a structured or disciplined environment around me. All of the KDOC staff have poured into me because they see the potential."

Ballard was first incarcerated when he was 18 on a robbery charge. He said there weren't as many rehabilitative programs in prisons in Kansas as there are today.

He said many men who have been in prison struggle with anxiety and depression after release.&nbsp;However, he said chess can help with those symptoms.

Ballard said the Gift of Chess and work release are preparing him to be a productive citizen when he's released from prison.

"I will come back to prison, but I won't come back in shackles or as an inmate," he said.

Ballard said he hopes to work with inmates as a substance abuse counselor or a mentor. Ballard's projected release date is April 12, 2025.

Now the program has toured all of the Kansas correctional facilities, Oneth, who recently presented to an international conference on the Gift of Chess, said the next step is to host an online state tournament in June or July.

Ballard said he would like to see chess programs in prisons across the country.

"I am thankful for the opportunity to give back and help men transform into rehabilitating and conducting themselves as helpful citizens upon their releases," he said.&nbsp;

You can see more on the <a href="https://thegiftofchess.org/stories/the-gift-of-chess-hosts-the-1st-annual-kansas-department-of-corrections-chess-championship">Gift of Chess in Kansas prisons online</a>. You also can <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/10k-sets-for-education-prison-global-outreach?utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=copy_link_all&amp;utm_source=customer">donate online</a>. If you want more information on the program or seek to volunteer with the program, you can email prisonoutreach@thegiftof chess.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684785582246.png" alt="Tony Ballard, right, who started a Kansas prison Gift of Chess outreach program, gives advice to a fellow inmate at the Topeka Correctional Facility. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tony Ballard, right, who started a Kansas prison Gift of Chess outreach program, gives advice to a fellow inmate at the Topeka Correctional Facility. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTony Ballard, a Kansas inmate, has turned a 25-year sentence into a passion to teach other inmates critical-thinking skills through the Gift of Chess.Tony Ballard, who is an inmate with Wichita work release, has been traveling to other correctional facilities within the state, including recently Stockton and Norton correctional facilities, to facilitate chess tournaments.Several years ago, when he was in segregation in the prison system, Ballard picked up the game of chess."The more I got better at the game, the more I felt the skills that I was using could be applied to my life," he said. "Those skills are critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, decision-making skills and pattern-recognition skills. [These are] all skills in society that employers call soft skills, but skills that most of those who are incarcerated didn't have."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684785777978.jpeg" alt="Tony Ballard, right, gives a fellow inmate a chess strategy lesson during a recent visit to the Topeka Correctional Facility. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tony Ballard, right, gives a fellow inmate a chess strategy lesson during a recent visit to the Topeka Correctional Facility. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ballard called himself a guinea pig in his own experiment as he tried to apply the skills he was learning through chess in his life."Lo and behold, I had success there as well as I started to take my time and respond and then react and be more responsive rather than impulsive, be decisive, strategic and goal set," he said.He and other inmates had already played in an intercontinental chess tournament online when he approached Capt. Kevin Oneth of the Kansas Department of Corrections and then Jeff Zmuda, Kanas Secretary Of the Department of Corrections.Ballard gave Zmuda an elevator pitch, and he was open and accepting to the idea of starting a chess outreach program within the Kansas correctional system.Oneth, in addition to being the administrative captain at the Wichita Work Release, became the statewide coordinator for the Gift of Chess.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684785874279.jpeg" alt="A Topeka Correctional Facility inmate looks over a chess board at a recent Gift of Chess program. The program seeks to help inmates build critical-thinking skills. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A Topeka Correctional Facility inmate looks over a chess board at a recent Gift of Chess program. The program seeks to help inmates build critical-thinking skills. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The program began with a tournament at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility in December, which was quickly followed by more events across the state."The response by the residents at each of the facilities has been phenomenal. They love it. They never expected something like that to happen," Oneth said.Although he said the inmates come to the tournaments unsure of what to expect, they leave with smiles and high fives, Oneth said."The attitudes are just so positive and appreciative," he said.As Ballard had said about himself, Oneth said he has seen growth in critical-thinking skills among those inmates who have participated in the program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684786044279.jpeg" alt="The Kansas Gift of Chess prison outreach program has had tournaments in all the state facilities. An online statewide correctional tournament is set for this summer. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Gift of Chess prison outreach program has had tournaments in all the state facilities. An online statewide correctional tournament is set for this summer. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"They are able to think about doing things rather than just reacting," he said.This matches with corrections' Resident Conduct Action Plans, which help inmates think through the consequences of their behaviors in lieu of receiving stiffer disciplinary actions."A lot of men who are in prison have come here because of impulsive behavior, driven and fueled by drugs and alcohol," Ballard said. "Chess moves us away from that impulsive thinking to more rational decision-making.&nbsp;"The goal is to make academic atmospheres within our facilities where thinking, decision-making, smarts, intelligence is celebrated over the brute and the brawn."Ballard wasn't always the guy who was making good decisions, by his own admission.Ballard, 45, is in prison on a conviction for attempted first-degree murder. He's been in prison since he was 25.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684786158161.jpeg" alt="Tony Ballard, Kansas prison Gift of Chess outreach program coordinator, said chess can help inmates prepare for life after prison by giving inmates an outlet to deal with anxiety and depression. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tony Ballard, Kansas prison Gift of Chess outreach program coordinator, said chess can help inmates prepare for life after prison by giving inmates an outlet to deal with anxiety and depression. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ballard, who is originally from Hutchinson, was selling and doing drugs. Someone tried to rob him, and he retaliated by firing a gun at the other party. He missed but was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison."People would always say, 'Man, what were you thinking?'" he said. "Every mistake, every crime, every bad choice I made in life, they were 'What were you thinking?'"The problem was I wasn't thinking. When I started playing chess, it made me want to start using those thinking skills."He said chess gave him the confidence and self-esteem to make good choices. He had to earn his way to work release, which he said is a path to his eventual freedom."Over the years, I have developed virtues and discipline that I don't think I could have got anywhere else," he said. "I didn't have a structured or disciplined environment around me. All of the KDOC staff have poured into me because they see the potential."Ballard was first incarcerated when he was 18 on a robbery charge. He said there weren't as many rehabilitative programs in prisons in Kansas as there are today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684786382760.jpeg" alt="Tony Ballard, center, of the Gift of Chess works with two female inmates at the Topeka Correctional Facility at a recent chess tournament there. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tony Ballard, center, of the Gift of Chess works with two female inmates at the Topeka Correctional Facility at a recent chess tournament there. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>He said many men who have been in prison struggle with anxiety and depression after release.&nbsp;However, he said chess can help with those symptoms.Ballard said the Gift of Chess and work release are preparing him to be a productive citizen when he's released from prison."I will come back to prison, but I won't come back in shackles or as an inmate," he said.Ballard said he hopes to work with inmates as a substance abuse counselor or a mentor. Ballard's projected release date is April 12, 2025.Now the program has toured all of the Kansas correctional facilities, Oneth, who recently presented to an international conference on the Gift of Chess, said the next step is to host an online state tournament in June or July.Ballard said he would like to see chess programs in prisons across the country."I am thankful for the opportunity to give back and help men transform into rehabilitating and conducting themselves as helpful citizens upon their releases," he said.&nbsp;You can see more on the <a href="https://thegiftofchess.org/stories/the-gift-of-chess-hosts-the-1st-annual-kansas-department-of-corrections-chess-championship">Gift of Chess in Kansas prisons online</a>. You also can <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/10k-sets-for-education-prison-global-outreach?utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=copy_link_all&amp;utm_source=customer">donate online</a>. If you want more information on the program or seek to volunteer with the program, you can email prisonoutreach@thegiftof chess.org.

Kansas inmate's path to freedom leads through Gift of Chess

By CAILIN RILEY KSU News services

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University freshman Grace Stanton is the recipient of the 2023 Morse Family and Community Public Policy Scholarship from&nbsp;<a href="https://lib.k-state.edu/about/our-organization/morse-scholarship/" target="_blank">K-State Libraries</a>. She plans to use the award this summer to intern with the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center to help coordinate the organization's first child care provider conference. A political science&nbsp;student&nbsp;from&nbsp;Hays, Stanton is passionate about improving Kansans'&nbsp;access to affordable child&nbsp;care needs. One of Stanton's goals is to help make sure the first Innovation Center conference is a success. "To maintain their child&nbsp;care license, providers are required to attain 16 approved training hours each year,"&nbsp;Stanton said.&nbsp;"But the problem is that it falls to each provider to locate and pay for their own training hours; that can be difficult for providers who are in rural areas or have limited resources. This two-day conference will provide those approved hours of training completely free." Stanton&nbsp;said&nbsp;the conference will give child&nbsp;care providers a space to network and connect with each other. She hopes her experience with the Innovation Center will help her get an in-depth understanding of the common issues facing at-risk Kansan communities. "In addition to gaining practical experience by coordinating a regional conference, I am very interested in empowering child&nbsp;care providers to become stronger advocates for their profession,"&nbsp;said Stanton.&nbsp;"I will be designing an online survey for conference participants to get their opinions on the regulatory and legislative issues surrounding child&nbsp;care in Kansas." The&nbsp;<a href="https://lib.k-state.edu/about/our-organization/morse-scholarship/" target="_blank">Morse scholarship</a>, awarded annually, provides funds to support a project or internship that gives a student the experience of working in community, state or federal governments or providing service in the nonprofit sector. The award honors Richard L.D. and Marjorie J. Morse's lifetime commitment and activism to improve the quality of family and community life.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684766440810.jpeg" alt="Grace Stanton is the winner of the 2023 Morse Family and Community Public Policy Scholarship from K-State Libraries. A freshman studying political sciences from Hays, Stanton is passionate about improving Kansans' access to affordable childcare needs. Photo by KSU" />
 <figcaption>Grace Stanton is the winner of the 2023 Morse Family and Community Public Policy Scholarship from K-State Libraries. A freshman studying political sciences from Hays, Stanton is passionate about improving Kansans' access to affordable childcare needs. Photo by KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By CAILIN RILEY KSU News servicesMANHATTAN — Kansas State University freshman Grace Stanton is the recipient of the 2023 Morse Family and Community Public Policy Scholarship from&nbsp;<a href="https://lib.k-state.edu/about/our-organization/morse-scholarship/" target="_blank">K-State Libraries</a>. She plans to use the award this summer to intern with the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center to help coordinate the organization's first child care provider conference. A political science&nbsp;student&nbsp;from&nbsp;Hays, Stanton is passionate about improving Kansans'&nbsp;access to affordable child&nbsp;care needs. One of Stanton's goals is to help make sure the first Innovation Center conference is a success. "To maintain their child&nbsp;care license, providers are required to attain 16 approved training hours each year,"&nbsp;Stanton said.&nbsp;"But the problem is that it falls to each provider to locate and pay for their own training hours; that can be difficult for providers who are in rural areas or have limited resources. This two-day conference will provide those approved hours of training completely free." Stanton&nbsp;said&nbsp;the conference will give child&nbsp;care providers a space to network and connect with each other. She hopes her experience with the Innovation Center will help her get an in-depth understanding of the common issues facing at-risk Kansan communities. "In addition to gaining practical experience by coordinating a regional conference, I am very interested in empowering child&nbsp;care providers to become stronger advocates for their profession,"&nbsp;said Stanton.&nbsp;"I will be designing an online survey for conference participants to get their opinions on the regulatory and legislative issues surrounding child&nbsp;care in Kansas." The&nbsp;<a href="https://lib.k-state.edu/about/our-organization/morse-scholarship/" target="_blank">Morse scholarship</a>, awarded annually, provides funds to support a project or internship that gives a student the experience of working in community, state or federal governments or providing service in the nonprofit sector. The award honors Richard L.D. and Marjorie J. Morse's lifetime commitment and activism to improve the quality of family and community life.

Hays K-State scholarship winner to address training access for child care providers 

In response to the pressing issue of gender-based violence (GBV) and its impact on workplaces and rural communities, Fort Hays State University is proud to announce the launch of the Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate program. 

This innovative program aims to equip professionals in business management and human resources with the skills and knowledge to support and advocate for GBV survivors, with a focus on financial empowerment and career development. The initiative leads are Dr. Rachel Dolechek (Applied Business) and Dr. Ziwei Qi (Criminal Justice).

The prevalence of GBV in the United States remains alarming, with 20 people experiencing domestic violence per minute and more than 10 million victims (about half the population of New York) annually. This widespread issue affects individuals and families and has significant consequences for employers, with an estimated 50,000 instances of domestic violence occurring in workplaces each year. This results in a loss of 8 million days (about 21,903 years) of paid work per year or $1.8 billion (about $6 per person in the United States) loss in productivity.

Rural survivors face unique challenges, including geographical isolation, limited resources, and cultural tolerance of violence in intimate relationships. The Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate program seeks to address these issues by providing professionals with the tools to empower survivors and promote economic independence.

Funded by the Innovation and Entrepreneurship grant, the program offers scholarships for completing the certificate, comprising ten credit hours of coursework. Students will acquire a foundational knowledge of victim advocacy and develop strong written communication skills through courses from criminal justice, business communication and sociology.

This program aims to foster a more inclusive workplace environment and empower professionals to advocate for GBV survivors.

The FHSU Innovation grant also provides financial support and resources to the community. Financial assistance of $700 per person supports tuition, fees, and skills development. Application forms for scholarships can be found at<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtP1pmhsUGfMjiffGvG9GLHF0PXczy3kMzBmYnQUctjV5utX8_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BBgYelMZmB-2BAZ7HfmH5hyfmzCv54GfAyPDbZoCg0Y3CNAw9i9vOdeCv6V6Erra8R8tCsd89p7nMRl9Kx9k5rlK8vewKbkeuGK-2FrV9aKmx86Hzuv-2FV8iWPf10OYiRdU3sQgN-2BoHWt5EwsovDldo8CTPxJSO95OxX-2FzKY-2FPZtyWUP8B7N0fNKIlSqxDdaLk2RYosZZpMsG9WLEyzlGLFy-2Bs3zBgnjQU7ZmVINu0c8xkk5uaj5Up6K54U8YxAlBqicHi" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://forms.gle/oTi1mkcK5NsPmeRX7</a>.<a href="https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADIwMTk5ZWZhLWQwZTEtNGEyMC05ODQxLTBmZTA5NmUzNmU5NwAQAPKnANBctltHm0RLVtHT63Y%3D#x__msocom_1">[BD1]</a>&nbsp;

For more information about the Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate program, contact Dr. Rachel Dolechek at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rldolechek@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">rldolechek@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;and Dr.Ziwei Qi at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:z_qi5@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">z_qi5@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623776142044.png" alt="fhsu cevgv logo.png" />
 <figcaption>fhsu cevgv logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University Relations In response to the pressing issue of gender-based violence (GBV) and its impact on workplaces and rural communities, Fort Hays State University is proud to announce the launch of the Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate program. This innovative program aims to equip professionals in business management and human resources with the skills and knowledge to support and advocate for GBV survivors, with a focus on financial empowerment and career development. The initiative leads are Dr. Rachel Dolechek (Applied Business) and Dr. Ziwei Qi (Criminal Justice).The prevalence of GBV in the United States remains alarming, with 20 people experiencing domestic violence per minute and more than 10 million victims (about half the population of New York) annually. This widespread issue affects individuals and families and has significant consequences for employers, with an estimated 50,000 instances of domestic violence occurring in workplaces each year. This results in a loss of 8 million days (about 21,903 years) of paid work per year or $1.8 billion (about $6 per person in the United States) loss in productivity.Rural survivors face unique challenges, including geographical isolation, limited resources, and cultural tolerance of violence in intimate relationships. The Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate program seeks to address these issues by providing professionals with the tools to empower survivors and promote economic independence.Funded by the Innovation and Entrepreneurship grant, the program offers scholarships for completing the certificate, comprising ten credit hours of coursework. Students will acquire a foundational knowledge of victim advocacy and develop strong written communication skills through courses from criminal justice, business communication and sociology.This program aims to foster a more inclusive workplace environment and empower professionals to advocate for GBV survivors.The FHSU Innovation grant also provides financial support and resources to the community. Financial assistance of $700 per person supports tuition, fees, and skills development. Application forms for scholarships can be found at<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtP1pmhsUGfMjiffGvG9GLHF0PXczy3kMzBmYnQUctjV5utX8_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BBgYelMZmB-2BAZ7HfmH5hyfmzCv54GfAyPDbZoCg0Y3CNAw9i9vOdeCv6V6Erra8R8tCsd89p7nMRl9Kx9k5rlK8vewKbkeuGK-2FrV9aKmx86Hzuv-2FV8iWPf10OYiRdU3sQgN-2BoHWt5EwsovDldo8CTPxJSO95OxX-2FzKY-2FPZtyWUP8B7N0fNKIlSqxDdaLk2RYosZZpMsG9WLEyzlGLFy-2Bs3zBgnjQU7ZmVINu0c8xkk5uaj5Up6K54U8YxAlBqicHi" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://forms.gle/oTi1mkcK5NsPmeRX7</a>.<a href="https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADIwMTk5ZWZhLWQwZTEtNGEyMC05ODQxLTBmZTA5NmUzNmU5NwAQAPKnANBctltHm0RLVtHT63Y%3D#x__msocom_1">[BD1]</a>&nbsp;For more information about the Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate program, contact Dr. Rachel Dolechek at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rldolechek@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">rldolechek@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;and Dr.Ziwei Qi at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:z_qi5@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">z_qi5@fhsu.edu</a>.

Fort Hays State launches Economic Justice, Advocacy Certificate program

Kansas ranks No. 1 in the U.S. for the production of winter wheat. 

In 2021, Kansas farmers harvested seven million acres of winter wheat, producing 364 million bushels and the state produced about 22% of the nation’s wheat.

Farmers and anyone else interested are invited to attend the annual Ellis County Wheat Demonstration Plot Field Day on Thursday, June 1 beginning at 6:00 p.m. 

A complimentary meal and refreshments will be provided courtesy of sponsors. 

RSVP appreciated by Friday, May 26, to help with the meal count. Please register at https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77nUUU6CSmIqJN4 call 785-628-9430 or email Theresa tam3@ksu.edu

Neil Gottschalk is the farmer cooperator. Location is at the intersection of Golf Course Road and 180th Avenue; turn south onto 180th Avenue and go 1.5 miles.

In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the K-State Agricultural Research Center – Hays auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850316151.png" alt="Wheat plot tour. File photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Wheat plot tour. File photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KSRE Cottonwood Dist.Kansas ranks No. 1 in the U.S. for the production of winter wheat. In 2021, Kansas farmers harvested seven million acres of winter wheat, producing 364 million bushels and the state produced about 22% of the nation’s wheat.Farmers and anyone else interested are invited to attend the annual Ellis County Wheat Demonstration Plot Field Day on Thursday, June 1 beginning at 6:00 p.m. A complimentary meal and refreshments will be provided courtesy of sponsors. RSVP appreciated by Friday, May 26, to help with the meal count. Please register at https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77nUUU6CSmIqJN4 call 785-628-9430 or email Theresa tam3@ksu.eduNeil Gottschalk is the farmer cooperator. Location is at the intersection of Golf Course Road and 180th Avenue; turn south onto 180th Avenue and go 1.5 miles.In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the K-State Agricultural Research Center – Hays auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.

Friday deadline for Ellis Co. Wheat Demo Plot Field Day signup

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684776401633.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>

CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH OF HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. CAMBER IS HIRING NURSES, THERAPISTS AND DIRECT CARE STAFF.

CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF.

MOST OF ALL, CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION –FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER.

APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cambermentalhealth.org/careers/">CAMBERMENTALHEALTH.ORG/CAREER</a>&nbsp;AND JOIN THE CAMBER TEAM. CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER CAMBER BENEFITS:

* Inspiring mission –make your career meaningful! * Competitive pay for the industry * KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees * Free dental insurance * Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays * 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match * A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count * A strong focus on promoting internally * Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion * Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual get-togethers * Ongoing training and learning opportunities

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681925190638.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH OF HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. CAMBER IS HIRING NURSES, THERAPISTS AND DIRECT CARE STAFF.CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF.MOST OF ALL, CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION –FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER.APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cambermentalhealth.org/careers/">CAMBERMENTALHEALTH.ORG/CAREER</a>&nbsp;AND JOIN THE CAMBER TEAM. CAMBER CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER CAMBER BENEFITS:* Inspiring mission –make your career meaningful! * Competitive pay for the industry * KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees * Free dental insurance * Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays * 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match * A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count * A strong focus on promoting internally * Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion * Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual get-togethers * Ongoing training and learning opportunitiesAND MUCH MORE!

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber and Library team up for Leadership Book Club

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Delayed operator submissions cause a big zigzag in the federal government's reporting on wells drilled but uncompleted (DUC).

Last month, during a week when officials typically receive 100 completion reports, they received more than one thousand.

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), some operators submitted several years' worth of unreported completions in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. The move forced big changes in EIA's ongoing reporting on DUCs. Both the number of drilled wells and the number of completed wells changed fairly dramatically. A government release suggests the government is taking a more nuanced look at well completions. Kansas crude prices are slightly higher than a week ago but more than nine dollars lower than a month ago.&nbsp;

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $61.75 per barrel, after dropping 25 cents on Friday.&nbsp; Crude futures prices were holding steady amid market uncertainty, with most analysts waiting for Monday's debt-ceiling talks. The June contract in New York was over $71 on the last day of trading Monday. London Brent was fetching seventy-five fifty-seven by midday. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes on Friday showed a drop of eleven oil rigs nationwide. The breakout for horizontal drilling was down ten rigs. The tally in Texas as down nine. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is up six percent from a week ago, down nearly three percent from a month ago, and 35% lower than a year ago. West of Wichita there are 23 active drilling rigs. Operators on Monday were preparing to spud a new well on a lease in Barton County. Operators in Kansas completed 32 wells last week, 694 so far this year, compared to 582 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports ten completions east of Wichita and 22 in western Kansas, including one in Barton County, one in Ellis County and two in Stafford County. Operators have spudded 471 wells so far this year, down 632 spuds from a year ago, with an estimated 1.3 million feet of well bore drilled, down from nearly 1.7 million last year at this time. Kansas regulators approved 20 new drilling locations across the state last week, with nine west of Wichita including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. That's 488 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 569 a year ago at this time. The number-three crude producing state reports a slight drop in production. North Dakota operators produced 34.8 million barrels of crude in March, or 1.12 million barrels per day, down slightly from the average in February. The Department of Mineral Resources reports the state's closely-watched gas-capture rate improved to 95%, meaning five percent of the natural gas produced at oil wells is vented or burned on site. Inventories and imports are up; production is down. U.S. crude inventories increased by about five million barrels as of May 12th, to 467 million barrels. A weekly government tally notes current stockpiles are slightly below the five-year average for this time of year. The EIA reported domestic crude imports increased by about 1.3 million barrels per day to 6.9 million barrels per day. The four-week average is slightly higher than a year ago. EIA reported a drop in production last week of about 130-thousand barrels per day. The average for the week through May 12th was over 12.2 million barrels per day. That's a quarter-million barrels per day more than the same week a year ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Delayed operator submissions cause a big zigzag in the federal government's reporting on wells drilled but uncompleted (DUC). Last month, during a week when officials typically receive 100 completion reports, they received more than one thousand. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), some operators submitted several years' worth of unreported completions in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. The move forced big changes in EIA's ongoing reporting on DUCs. Both the number of drilled wells and the number of completed wells changed fairly dramatically. A government release suggests the government is taking a more nuanced look at well completions. Kansas crude prices are slightly higher than a week ago but more than nine dollars lower than a month ago.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $61.75 per barrel, after dropping 25 cents on Friday.&nbsp; Crude futures prices were holding steady amid market uncertainty, with most analysts waiting for Monday's debt-ceiling talks. The June contract in New York was over $71 on the last day of trading Monday. London Brent was fetching seventy-five fifty-seven by midday. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes on Friday showed a drop of eleven oil rigs nationwide. The breakout for horizontal drilling was down ten rigs. The tally in Texas as down nine. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is up six percent from a week ago, down nearly three percent from a month ago, and 35% lower than a year ago. West of Wichita there are 23 active drilling rigs. Operators on Monday were preparing to spud a new well on a lease in Barton County. Operators in Kansas completed 32 wells last week, 694 so far this year, compared to 582 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports ten completions east of Wichita and 22 in western Kansas, including one in Barton County, one in Ellis County and two in Stafford County. Operators have spudded 471 wells so far this year, down 632 spuds from a year ago, with an estimated 1.3 million feet of well bore drilled, down from nearly 1.7 million last year at this time. Kansas regulators approved 20 new drilling locations across the state last week, with nine west of Wichita including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. That's 488 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 569 a year ago at this time. The number-three crude producing state reports a slight drop in production. North Dakota operators produced 34.8 million barrels of crude in March, or 1.12 million barrels per day, down slightly from the average in February. The Department of Mineral Resources reports the state's closely-watched gas-capture rate improved to 95%, meaning five percent of the natural gas produced at oil wells is vented or burned on site. Inventories and imports are up; production is down. U.S. crude inventories increased by about five million barrels as of May 12th, to 467 million barrels. A weekly government tally notes current stockpiles are slightly below the five-year average for this time of year. The EIA reported domestic crude imports increased by about 1.3 million barrels per day to 6.9 million barrels per day. The four-week average is slightly higher than a year ago. EIA reported a drop in production last week of about 130-thousand barrels per day. The average for the week through May 12th was over 12.2 million barrels per day. That's a quarter-million barrels per day more than the same week a year ago.

News From the Oil Patch: EIA reports skewed by delayed operator submissions

Suffering from a migraine, dehydrated or needing a quick cure for a hangover, a new Hays business says it can help.

Nikki Cherryholmes, family nurse practitioner, has launched&nbsp;SecondWind IV, which offers IVs for a variety of ailments.

Cherryholmes opened a storefront at 2205 Vine in Hays on March 30.

The elderly population tends to get dehydrated easily, and they can receive an IV with electrolytes.

The business has mixtures that will help alleviate hangovers.

"We also have packages for athletes or people who worry more about aging or sun damage. We also have a migraine mixture. We have a little bit of everything. They focus on different populations," she said.&nbsp;

The mixture that is given to migraine sufferers includes a steroid to decrease swelling and medication to decrease nausea.

Ingredients in the athletic bags help build muscle, and magnesium helps relax muscles. The fluid in the IV bags also will help the muscles relax and heal, Cherryholmes said.

Some of the supplements used in the IVs can be obtained over the counter. However, you only absorb 30 percent of the supplement if you take it orally, Cherryholmes said. Through an IV you absorb 100 percent of what you are given.

IV hydration businesses have become popular in larger cities, but the closest businesses to Hays would be in Wichita, Kansas City or Colorado.

"It was a unique concept that we thought Hays needed and could utilize," Cherryholmes said.&nbsp;

The IV bags come from a distributor, but Cherryholmes mixes her own treatments.

Cherryholmes still works as a nurse practitioner for a local clinic, In addition to her training as a nurse practitioner, she said she researched IV therapy and has taken classes specifically on this topic.

IVs always come with a risk of infection,&nbsp;Cherryholmes said, but it is very minimal.&nbsp;

Appointments are recommended.&nbsp;SecondWind IV will take appointments from 1 to 5 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Cherryholmes said she may take some appointments during the week if needed.&nbsp;

You can book an appointment on the business' website at <a href="http://vagaro.com/secondwindiv">vagaro.com/secondwindiv</a> or call 785-365-0800. You also can follow the business on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/secondwindivhays">Facebook</a>.

The IVs take 30 to 45 minutes. The IVs cost $75 to $150.  

Cherryholmes also offers injections with some of the same ingredients. They take five to 15 minutes. Her injections include B-12, which can boost energy and improve mood; vitamin D-3, which can help bones, reduce inflammation, boost energy and improve mood; Toradol, which helps reduce inflammation and pain; and Zofran, which helps reduce nausea.

A bag of fluids in an emergency room costs $780, Cherryholmes said. That does not include the co-pay when you walk through the ER doors and any other testing.&nbsp;

For someone who just needs fluids, appointments take 45 minutes compared to potentially hours of waiting in an ER.

Cherryholmes reviews medical histories and allergies before she administers an IV. Not everyone is able to receive these IVs, she said. People who are in chronic respiratory or kidney failure can't handle a large amount of fluids quickly.

Cherryholmes makes the final decision if an IV treatment is appropriate for a client.

Cherryholmes will travel outside of Hays. You need to call for an appointment and pricing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684515421430.jpeg" alt="Nikki Cherryholmes, a nurse practitioner, has opened&nbsp;SecondWind IV,&nbsp;2205 Vine in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Nikki Cherryholmes, a nurse practitioner, has opened&nbsp;SecondWind IV,&nbsp;2205 Vine in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSuffering from a migraine, dehydrated or needing a quick cure for a hangover, a new Hays business says it can help.Nikki Cherryholmes, family nurse practitioner, has launched&nbsp;SecondWind IV, which offers IVs for a variety of ailments.Cherryholmes opened a storefront at 2205 Vine in Hays on March 30.The elderly population tends to get dehydrated easily, and they can receive an IV with electrolytes.The business has mixtures that will help alleviate hangovers."We also have packages for athletes or people who worry more about aging or sun damage. We also have a migraine mixture. We have a little bit of everything. They focus on different populations," she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684524879127.jpeg" alt="SecondWind IV is at&nbsp;2205 Vine in Hays and is owned by&nbsp;Nikki Cherryholmes, family nurse practitioner. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>SecondWind IV is at&nbsp;2205 Vine in Hays and is owned by&nbsp;Nikki Cherryholmes, family nurse practitioner. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The mixture that is given to migraine sufferers includes a steroid to decrease swelling and medication to decrease nausea.Ingredients in the athletic bags help build muscle, and magnesium helps relax muscles. The fluid in the IV bags also will help the muscles relax and heal, Cherryholmes said.Some of the supplements used in the IVs can be obtained over the counter. However, you only absorb 30 percent of the supplement if you take it orally, Cherryholmes said. Through an IV you absorb 100 percent of what you are given.IV hydration businesses have become popular in larger cities, but the closest businesses to Hays would be in Wichita, Kansas City or Colorado."It was a unique concept that we thought Hays needed and could utilize," Cherryholmes said.&nbsp;The IV bags come from a distributor, but Cherryholmes mixes her own treatments.Cherryholmes still works as a nurse practitioner for a local clinic, In addition to her training as a nurse practitioner, she said she researched IV therapy and has taken classes specifically on this topic.IVs always come with a risk of infection,&nbsp;Cherryholmes said, but it is very minimal.&nbsp;Appointments are recommended.&nbsp;SecondWind IV will take appointments from 1 to 5 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Cherryholmes said she may take some appointments during the week if needed.&nbsp;You can book an appointment on the business' website at <a href="http://vagaro.com/secondwindiv">vagaro.com/secondwindiv</a> or call 785-365-0800. You also can follow the business on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/secondwindivhays">Facebook</a>.The IVs take 30 to 45 minutes. The IVs cost $75 to $150. Cherryholmes also offers injections with some of the same ingredients. They take five to 15 minutes. Her injections include B-12, which can boost energy and improve mood; vitamin D-3, which can help bones, reduce inflammation, boost energy and improve mood; Toradol, which helps reduce inflammation and pain; and Zofran, which helps reduce nausea.Injections cost $30.A bag of fluids in an emergency room costs $780, Cherryholmes said. That does not include the co-pay when you walk through the ER doors and any other testing.&nbsp;For someone who just needs fluids, appointments take 45 minutes compared to potentially hours of waiting in an ER.Cherryholmes reviews medical histories and allergies before she administers an IV. Not everyone is able to receive these IVs, she said. People who are in chronic respiratory or kidney failure can't handle a large amount of fluids quickly.Cherryholmes makes the final decision if an IV treatment is appropriate for a client.Cherryholmes will travel outside of Hays. You need to call for an appointment and pricing.

Hays IV business offers help with hangovers, migraines

Joan Crull, music teacher for Hays USD 489, has been spreading her love of music to youth for more than 45 years.

Crull's last day as a public school teacher was Thursday.

Although Crull, 67, has worked in the Hays school district for 17 years, she's worked in five states — Kansas, Colorado, California, South Dakota and Iowa.

Crull teaches orchestra and general music at O'Loughlin Elementary School.

"I have taught in multiple states and many schools. This district has so much going for it," she said. "The teachers are amazing. I can say that having known hundreds of teachers from five different states that this is a wonderful district, especially now that we are [building a] new high school and everything."

Crull, whose primary instrument is the violin, said she fell in love with music when she was in elementary school.

"I had a second-grade music teacher who made it so fun," she said. "I loved it. I just loved it.

"My mom and dad were musical. I went away from it for a little while, but I knew from the time I was little that I wanted to teach music," she said. "I've been involved in music since I was tiny."

She said music can speak to students in a way nothing else can.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684510975367.png" alt="Joan Crull of Hays USD 489 is retiring after 45 years as a music educator. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Joan Crull of Hays USD 489 is retiring after 45 years as a music educator. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostJoan Crull, music teacher for Hays USD 489, has been spreading her love of music to youth for more than 45 years.Crull's last day as a public school teacher was Thursday.Although Crull, 67, has worked in the Hays school district for 17 years, she's worked in five states — Kansas, Colorado, California, South Dakota and Iowa.Crull teaches orchestra and general music at O'Loughlin Elementary School."I have taught in multiple states and many schools. This district has so much going for it," she said. "The teachers are amazing. I can say that having known hundreds of teachers from five different states that this is a wonderful district, especially now that we are [building a] new high school and everything."Crull, whose primary instrument is the violin, said she fell in love with music when she was in elementary school."I had a second-grade music teacher who made it so fun," she said. "I loved it. I just loved it."My mom and dad were musical. I went away from it for a little while, but I knew from the time I was little that I wanted to teach music," she said. "I've been involved in music since I was tiny."She said music can speak to students in a way nothing else can.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684511042950.jpeg" alt="Joan Crull teaches orchestra and general music education at O'Loughlin Elementary School. She is retiring this year after 45 years as a teacher, 17 years of that has been at Hays schools. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Joan Crull teaches orchestra and general music education at O'Loughlin Elementary School. She is retiring this year after 45 years as a teacher, 17 years of that has been at Hays schools. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"Sometimes they're having a hard day, or sometimes a child has struggles in another area of school, but in music, they find release. Music makes them feel better about themselves. They can express themselves better. They find they have a talent there."Younger children become more creative, she said.&nbsp;She said she can look out over a large group of students from all types of backgrounds, but when they are making music, they are part of a team, she said.Crull has worked with children from kindergarten through high school. Which age group she likes to work with the best depends on the day."Sometimes I think kindergarteners are really cute," she said, "and some days I think, wow, I really enjoy the high school, the top group, because they can really do so much.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684513378914.jpeg" alt="Joan Crull, Hays teacher, conducting orchestra students at her lat concert. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Joan Crull, Hays teacher, conducting orchestra students at her lat concert. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"Some days, I think the middle schoolers are fun. They have such a fun sense of humor."Crull tries to pull music from a wide variety of genres.&nbsp;"There is something beautiful in every time period," she said.&nbsp;She said you might think students would prefer upbeat music."A lot of times, even with younger students," she said, "You'll find that their favorite pieces are the slower pieces that are very emotional and moving. If you give them a choice of what they want to play, they will pick one of those."She said she has fond memories of her students earning places in Kansas All-State, but it is often the little things that have stuck in her memory.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684513428864.jpeg" alt="Crull leading orchestra students during a recent concert at Hays Middle School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Crull leading orchestra students during a recent concert at Hays Middle School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's the light bulb going on," she said, "a kid smiling. A student was having a rough day and was able to get into the music. It speaks to them. It's little things every day. You never know what it's going to be."Crull said her most significant challenge as a music teacher has been meeting the needs of students at varying skill levels. She might have a middle school student who is just learning to play and another in the same class who has been playing since she was five and can play advanced music.Crull is used to working with large groups—65 to 70 at the middle school or high school or up to 100 for an elementary school program.During her tenure as a teacher, she said music education has grown and now entails more hands-on work with the students, moving and creating."It is no longer sit with a book and sing," she said.Many students also have a lot of obstacles to overcome to be at school, Crull said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684513512996.jpeg" alt="Joan Crull was honored at her last concert for her many years dedicated to music education. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Joan Crull was honored at her last concert for her many years dedicated to music education. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Crull was a teacher through the era of No Child Left Behind and an emphasis on testing. She talked about the importance of music education."Not everybody is a good test taker. That just measures certain kinds of intelligence," she said. "Music speaks to the whole soul. It speaks to the whole child. They can always succeed. Nobody loses. We always win.&nbsp;"It helps develop the other part of them, the creative, the artistic, the emotional side of the child that studying for a test doesn't."It creates more synapses in the brain, which helps with the development of language and math skills, she said."Einstein played the violin," she said. ... "I always tell my students you are playing the same thing that Einstein played, and look what he did."In retirement, Crull will teach private violin and viola lessons at home. Crull has children and relatives who live across the country and in China. She said she needs free weekends to visit her family.She also hopes to still do some piano accompanying at local schools.She also will continue to sing in the Smoky Hill Chorale and play in the Hays Symphony."Music is just so important to me to express myself, and it makes me happy. It is just so a very, very important part of who I am. If I didn't do music every day, I would be very sad."

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