Three-day weather outlook

Midwest Energy is now hiring for a System Operator for our office in Hays, Kan.&nbsp;

System Operators monitor the status of the electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems.&nbsp; They work with field personnel to coordinate switching operations, and to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the electric system.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
An Associate Degree in Electrical Transmission Systems Technology, Business or a related field is required.&nbsp; Previous work experience at an electric utility company in line construction, power plant operation, utility equipment maintenance, power purchasing, or system operations is preferred. The successful candidate will have experience with spreadsheets and database applications.&nbsp; The position involves rotating shift work, with some overtime required. &nbsp;

Midwest Energy is Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, serving 92,000 customers in 40 counties in central and western Kansas.&nbsp; Midwest employees enjoy industry-competitive pay and benefits, to include 401K with generous employer match, excellent medical and dental plans, and an employer-funded pension plan.&nbsp;

Midwest is taking applications for System Operator through Jan. 7, 2022.&nbsp; For a full list of position requirements for this position, or to view other open positions, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; 
 
To apply online for the System Operator position, visit <a href="https://bit.ly/3EGPVQR">https://bit.ly/3EGPVQR</a>. &nbsp;

Midwest Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639084775009.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Energy is now hiring for a System Operator for our office in Hays, Kan.&nbsp;System Operators monitor the status of the electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems.&nbsp; They work with field personnel to coordinate switching operations, and to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the electric system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
An Associate Degree in Electrical Transmission Systems Technology, Business or a related field is required.&nbsp; Previous work experience at an electric utility company in line construction, power plant operation, utility equipment maintenance, power purchasing, or system operations is preferred. The successful candidate will have experience with spreadsheets and database applications.&nbsp; The position involves rotating shift work, with some overtime required. &nbsp;Midwest Energy is Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, serving 92,000 customers in 40 counties in central and western Kansas.&nbsp; Midwest employees enjoy industry-competitive pay and benefits, to include 401K with generous employer match, excellent medical and dental plans, and an employer-funded pension plan.&nbsp;Midwest is taking applications for System Operator through Jan. 7, 2022.&nbsp; For a full list of position requirements for this position, or to view other open positions, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; 
 
To apply online for the System Operator position, visit <a href="https://bit.ly/3EGPVQR">https://bit.ly/3EGPVQR</a>. &nbsp;Midwest Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: My brother’s deer camp 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will consider bids for the HVAC replacement at Hays High School at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. today at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The $6 million project will replace the original HVAC system for Hays High, which was installed in 1979. It will include a majority of the building. Repairs to HHS's gym HVAC system have already been completed.

The board will also hear a report on its application for the third round of federal COVID relief funds.

The district plans to use some of these federal funds for the HVAC repairs, which should improve ventilation in the building.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will consider bids for the HVAC replacement at Hays High School at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. today at the Rockwell Administration Center.The $6 million project will replace the original HVAC system for Hays High, which was installed in 1979. It will include a majority of the building. Repairs to HHS's gym HVAC system have already been completed.The board will also hear a report on its application for the third round of federal COVID relief funds.The district plans to use some of these federal funds for the HVAC repairs, which should improve ventilation in the building.

Hays school board to discuss HHS HVAC bids

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 31 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

KDHE also reported an additional coronavirus-related death of an Ellis County resident, bringing the total to 77.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e63276ea-ca10-4e6a-84c8-73db703c9286">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays docs say battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge</a>

As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported 23 COVID-19 inpatients.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3fbf9a1d-9473-48af-add6-ac3dfce7c3b6">RELATED: HaysMed releases November COVID stats</a>

The KDHE reported Friday 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 65 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 5,031 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 77 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639419228864.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 31 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.KDHE also reported an additional coronavirus-related death of an Ellis County resident, bringing the total to 77.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e63276ea-ca10-4e6a-84c8-73db703c9286">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays docs say battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge</a>As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported 23 COVID-19 inpatients.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3fbf9a1d-9473-48af-add6-ac3dfce7c3b6">RELATED: HaysMed releases November COVID stats</a>The KDHE reported Friday 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 65 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 5,031 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 77 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 31 new COVID cases, additional death in Ellis Co. since Friday

Courtesy of Precision Valley Golf and Bike Center. Valued at over $500, Christmas could come early this year!

<div> <script src="https://embed-854913.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="30c6e878-6a60-4e0e-9a94-da47e41b0577" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>Courtesy of Precision Valley Golf and Bike Center. Valued at over $500, Christmas could come early this year!

2021 Great Christmas Giveaway!

Miles David Drexler was anxious to be born.

Mother Michelle Drexler, 35, and her friend, Aminda Brunner, a fellow ER nurse at HaysMed, were on the way to the hospital in Plainville, when Miles decided to make an early appearance.

At mile marker 153.5 of Interstate 70, Aminda was forced to pull over her truck and deliver baby Miles right there on the spot.

Baby and mom are both healthy and doing fine. However, Michelle and Aminda are still in shock over the events of Miles' birthday on Dec. 4.

Miles was not due until Dec. 20. Michelle began having mild contractions about 6 p.m. on Dec. 4. She and her husband, Beau, had planned to take their older son Charlie, 3, to the Christmas Past event at Historic Fort Hays that night.

Michelle urged Beau and her sister-in-law to go ahead and take Charlie to the event and she would stay home in Ellis. 

Michelle had been in labor with Charlie for eight hours, so she thought there was no rush to get to the hospital. However, her contractions progressed much more rapidly than she anticipated. 

Her good friend, Aminda called about 7 p.m. to check in. Aminda agreed to watch Charlie that night in case Michelle had to go to the hospital to get checked.

Charlie was going to be dropped off at Aminda house in Hays', but Michelle lamented Charlie had left his favorite stuffed animal at home. Michelle said she was fine, but Aminda insisted on coming to Ellis to get the the toy and check on Michelle.

In the 20 minutes it took Aminda to make it to Ellis from Hays, Michelle's contractions had advanced to the point she could barely walk. Aminda hurried her to her truck and set out for the hospital in Plainville.&nbsp;

Near Yocemento, Michelle said "Oh my gosh, my water just broke in your car. You need to pull over the car now, we're having a baby."

"Oh shit! I caught him! I caught him!" Aminda said as Miles was born into her arms at 8:09 p.m.

Aminda handed Michelle her favorite hoodie and the two women wrapped the baby inside.

"He came fast, like really fast," Michelle said. "He flew out."

Aminda called Michelle's husband and he asked, "Is that a baby I hear in the background?"

"Since we were both ER nurses we knew them," Michelle said. "They had this look of relief like 'Thank goodness it's you guys.' then 'Oh my God, its you guys.'"

The first responders all joked about being named the godfather.

Michelle's sister-in-law, Twany Baxter, a labor and delivery nurse, arrived on the scene shortly with Michelle's husband, and she helped deliver Michelle's placenta.

Aminda said she didn't have time to panic.

As a nurse, she had trained in birth and delivery. She had watched deliveries as a nursing student, but she had never delivered a baby herself.

"I didn't have too much time to think about it, really," Aminda said.

Michelle had asked Aminda if she wanted to be in the delivery room much earlier in her pregnancy. They joked about it, but Aminda wanted no part of the birth experience. She wanted to leave that up to Michelle and Beau.

"As ER nurses when we have someone in labor," Michelle said, "the first think we think is 'Oh my gosh, call labor and delivery and get them here as fast as possible.' That's just so far out of our element. And then we just had a baby, just the two of us."

"Yeah, just you, me and God and Miles," Aminda said.

Aminda's truck was a little worse for wear, as you might imagine.

The two women were already close friends, but Michelle and Aminda said they and Miles will be bonded forever by the highway birth.

"This takes our friendship to a whole new level," Michelle said.

She added, "This was quite the experience together, we have no modesty anymore."

Miles was 6 pounds, 4 ounces and 18 inches when he was born. His grandparents are Lori Graham, Michael Stremel and Betsy Lesuer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639171810445.jpeg" alt="Michelle Drexler, right, didn't make it to the hospital to deliver her baby, Miles. On Dec. 4, Aminda Brunner, left, delivered the baby in her truck on the side of Interstate 70 near Yocemento. " />
 <figcaption>Michelle Drexler, right, didn't make it to the hospital to deliver her baby, Miles. On Dec. 4, Aminda Brunner, left, delivered the baby in her truck on the side of Interstate 70 near Yocemento. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMiles David Drexler was anxious to be born.Mother Michelle Drexler, 35, and her friend, Aminda Brunner, a fellow ER nurse at HaysMed, were on the way to the hospital in Plainville, when Miles decided to make an early appearance.At mile marker 153.5 of Interstate 70, Aminda was forced to pull over her truck and deliver baby Miles right there on the spot.Baby and mom are both healthy and doing fine. However, Michelle and Aminda are still in shock over the events of Miles' birthday on Dec. 4.Miles was not due until Dec. 20. Michelle began having mild contractions about 6 p.m. on Dec. 4. She and her husband, Beau, had planned to take their older son Charlie, 3, to the Christmas Past event at Historic Fort Hays that night.Michelle urged Beau and her sister-in-law to go ahead and take Charlie to the event and she would stay home in Ellis. Michelle had been in labor with Charlie for eight hours, so she thought there was no rush to get to the hospital. However, her contractions progressed much more rapidly than she anticipated. Her good friend, Aminda called about 7 p.m. to check in. Aminda agreed to watch Charlie that night in case Michelle had to go to the hospital to get checked. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639172229478.jpeg" alt="Baby Miles Drexler is healthy after being delivered Dec. 4 in a truck on the side of Interstate 70. " />
 <figcaption>Baby Miles Drexler is healthy after being delivered Dec. 4 in a truck on the side of Interstate 70. </figcaption>
 </figure>Charlie was going to be dropped off at Aminda house in Hays', but Michelle lamented Charlie had left his favorite stuffed animal at home. Michelle said she was fine, but Aminda insisted on coming to Ellis to get the the toy and check on Michelle.In the 20 minutes it took Aminda to make it to Ellis from Hays, Michelle's contractions had advanced to the point she could barely walk. Aminda hurried her to her truck and set out for the hospital in Plainville.&nbsp;They didn't make it. Near Yocemento, Michelle said "Oh my gosh, my water just broke in your car. You need to pull over the car now, we're having a baby.""Now?!" Aminda said."Right now!" Michelle said.Aminda called 911 at 8:08 p.m. "Oh shit! I caught him! I caught him!" Aminda said as Miles was born into her arms at 8:09 p.m.Aminda handed Michelle her favorite hoodie and the two women wrapped the baby inside. "He came fast, like really fast," Michelle said. "He flew out."Aminda called Michelle's husband and he asked, "Is that a baby I hear in the background?" EMS arrived a couple minutes later. "Since we were both ER nurses we knew them," Michelle said. "They had this look of relief like 'Thank goodness it's you guys.' then 'Oh my God, its you guys.'"The first responders all joked about being named the godfather. Michelle's sister-in-law, Twany Baxter, a labor and delivery nurse, arrived on the scene shortly with Michelle's husband, and she helped deliver Michelle's placenta.Aminda said she didn't have time to panic. As a nurse, she had trained in birth and delivery. She had watched deliveries as a nursing student, but she had never delivered a baby herself."I didn't have too much time to think about it, really," Aminda said. Michelle had asked Aminda if she wanted to be in the delivery room much earlier in her pregnancy. They joked about it, but Aminda wanted no part of the birth experience. She wanted to leave that up to Michelle and Beau."As ER nurses when we have someone in labor," Michelle said, "the first think we think is 'Oh my gosh, call labor and delivery and get them here as fast as possible.' That's just so far out of our element. And then we just had a baby, just the two of us.""Yeah, just you, me and God and Miles," Aminda said. Aminda's truck was a little worse for wear, as you might imagine.The two women were already close friends, but Michelle and Aminda said they and Miles will be bonded forever by the highway birth. "This takes our friendship to a whole new level," Michelle said.She added, "This was quite the experience together, we have no modesty anymore." Miles was 6 pounds, 4 ounces and 18 inches when he was born. His grandparents are Lori Graham, Michael Stremel and Betsy Lesuer.

Miles away from hospital, nurse delivers friend's baby on side of I-70

Doctors 'running out of gas' in fight against misinformation

Editor's note:&nbsp;Hays Post contacted several Ellis County students to learn what they have heard about the COVID-19 vaccine amongst peers and on social media. The quotes below are the responses, without attribution.&nbsp;

Despite last month's decision to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html">authorize COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone age 5 and older</a>, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported last week the overall vaccination rate in Ellis County for those age 12 and older remains just over 50 percent — well below the statewide average of 65 percent.

<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(21)00424-7/fulltext">A September study from England published by Lancet</a> showed about half of teens age 12 and older were either hesitant or would opt out of the vaccine altogether.

Dr. Heather Harris, chief medical officer at HaysMed, and Dr. Michelle Pope, pediatrician at <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/pediatrics/">Hays Pediatric Center</a>, said teen hesitancy is a conversation they have on a regular basis with patients and parents.

"Often, whatever the parents have decided for themselves, obviously there will be a similar decision for the kids," Pope said. 

She said the most common concern is that the vaccine was "so rushed."

"It's not really true. Parts of the process have been in place for over a decade," Pope said, noting development of the MRNA science used for the COVID vaccine began when SARS and MERS threatened to become a significant health issue. "The technology is definitely not new. It just feels new ... because SARS and MERS never became a pandemic."

Harris said she believes part of the hesitancy stems from a more base instinct.

"At the end of the day, kids don't like shots," she said. "But that just has to be 'time to be a parent.' You know they're going to be fine. There's just more fear than there is harm."

Both Harris and Pope offered the reassurance that the vaccine has been proven overwhelmingly safe – despite misinformation many children are faced with on social media.

"Kids get multiple vaccines over their life, and for the majority, there's very little concern about it," Harris said. "The scientific community has provided us with safe and effective vaccines, and there's no concern that this is any different.

"(The COVID vaccine's safety) has been politicized, but we all know it's just not true. Over a billion people have been vaccinated with very little to no harm."

<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22378331">RELATED: Click here for information on testing and vaccinations from the Ellis County Health Department.</a>

A recurring bit of misinformation both Harris and Pope have heard is in regard to fertility in teen girls, although Pope noted there are studies actually showing heightened risk for unvaccinated men diagnosed with natural COVID to develop sterility. With the vaccine, however, Pope added that has not been shown to be a risk.

"They're spreading rumors amongst each other, and they don't have the right information to understand the misinformation," Harris said.

Pope said the data shows children and adults have the same occurrence of mild reaction to the vaccine as adults — about 50 percent. She noted the vast majority of those reactions — site tenderness, fatigue and aches — happen within 12 to 24 hours of the shot, are short-lived and treatable with over-the-counter pain reliever.

She noted that children who contract natural COVID, however, have an increased risk of long-term  effects, including "pins and needles" nerve inflammation, joint aches, extreme fatigue and headaches.

Pope acknowledged there have been cases of myocarditis — inflamation of the heart muscle — in teens following the vaccine, but noted natural COVID causes the same condition and can create permanent, long-term damage to the heart.

Vaccine-related myocarditis is "very, very rare," she said.

Clinical trials have shown no occurrence of myocarditis in children age 5 to 11, according to <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/covid-19-vaccine-kids-how-we-know-it-s-safe">reports from the American Medical Association published in mid-November. </a>

Harris again noted that the delta variant of COVID is affecting the younger population more seriously than the original strain, with the average COVID inpatient age now about 60 years old. Hospital stays have become longer and the outcomes have become more treacherous for otherwise healthy people.

"A great majority of those being hospitalized are unvaccinated. They're quite sick, have long hospitalizations, a long recovery and we're starting to see more deaths occur .. in relatively young people," she said. "The 50- to 60-year-old group has been pretty stubborn about getting the vaccine, and they're the ones being hospitalized."

While the majority of inpatients at HaysMed had been from outside the county in recent weeks, as of Tuesday, about half of the 20-plus COVID inpatients were Ellis County residents. There have been some breakthrough cases of COVID in vaccinated patients, but Harris said most of those individuals were already immunocompromised or elderly.

Hospitalization of COVID patients —&nbsp;the vast majority unvaccinated — continues to take its toll on the staff at HaysMed, which, like most health care institutions across the state and nation, is fighting staffing issues. HaysMed also has been intermittently closed to out-of-county transfers over recent months with the influx of COVID inpatients.

"We're in need of nurses, all levels of hospital functions," Harris said. "We're short-staffed in multiple departments. ... If we were only left with those vaccinated, we would just have a handful of COVID patients."

Pope said that while staffing levels at the pediatric center are not a concern, the number of COVID patients occupying beds is an issue when a child must be admitted for any condition. With a more vigorous flu season expected and the annual uptick of RSV expected over the next three months, this means the potential for more pediatric transfers out of HaysMed. She said it's common in a normal year for pediatric patients to be admitted for influenza or RSV. 

"We rely upon the same nurses, who are in short supply," she said. "The COVID patients are taking up resources for RSV patients," noting children have been transferred to Kansas Mercy Hospital or Wichita due to space and staff concerns.

Pope said she encounters three main mindsets after asking her patients' parents if they have been vaccinated.

"It's an interesting conversation," she said. "The response is 'yes' or a quiet 'no' or a very robust 'no.' 

"When I ask 'Then what are your concerns?' ... 25 to 50 percent of them don't want to talk about it. There's no conversation to be had.  I restate the science, tell them I have no concerns and tell them I've put my money where my mouth is ..."

Of the "hard no" parents, she added, "I don't think I've had much success. The 'soft nos,' I've convinced some of the parents to get the vaccine, which is probably the first step to getting the kids vaccinated."

Harris said the vaccine discussion is a frustration for herself and the hospital staff.

"It's frustrating and sad to know so many people don't have to get so sick," she said. "I see it on a regular occurence with unvaccinated patients I've counseled. ... They don't get vaccinated, and they pass away or have weeks and months of getting better.

"We keep trying to encourage people every day the best we can, but we kind of start running out of gas."

Pope said the staff of the pediatric center is "really exhausted" after nearly two years of battling COVID. She noted that many times the pediatric staff is the parents' first real conversation with a health professional, as parents with children often spend more time in a doctor's office with their kids than with their primary care physician.

 Pope added that the pediatric staff has been providing vaccinations before the clinic opens, meaning staffers  have been working early since May or June. 

The risk, Harris said, isn't the vaccine or necessarily that teens will become extremely ill —&nbsp;although she said there has been a steady increase in youth hospitalizations since the delta variant arrived in Kansas.

A larger concern is that teens and college students are "highly effective at spreading illness."

"There are multiple examples where we've seen teenagers, inadvertently, who have been sick with COVID and then have spread it to elderly grandparents —&nbsp;and the grandparents have passed away," she said. "You have to protect the people around you."

Teens are also developing socially and educationally, and COVID can be a major life disruption.

"(The vaccine) is protecting them from missing school, missing activities," she said. "And if you can keep your kiddo from not feeling terrible for 10 to 14 days, that doesn't seem like such a terrible idea."

Both Harris and Pope said there is a time when parents have to parent when to comes to the vaccine.

"More kids have died from COVID than influenza in any year," Pope said. "It's mild for most kids, but still significant. ... You just never know if that's going to be your kid or not.

"Teenagers should be part of the conversation because we're teaching them to be adults, right?" she added. "You're either going to get COVID or get the vaccine. We can't make COVID go away. But we can control it."

She noted "natural immunity" for those who have previously contracted COVID is not nearly as effective as the vaccine. When the body attacks a natural virus, it creates a wide variety of proteins to ward off a wide variety of potential causes. With the vaccine, those proteins are aimed directly at COVID.

"If you get the vaccine after you had had COVID, you boost that spike protein that has the most benefit," Pope said, adding "coronavirus has always been here. We just didn't have one that made people this sick."

Harris reiterated that the vaccines are safe and effective. 

"At some point, it's just time to be the parent and help them make good decisions and have an environment of wellness," she said.

With the Ellis County case rate curve ominously similar to the fall and winter of 2020, Harris said the trend could continue. 

"December matches the wave from last year," she said. "This is the time of the year when the peak of COVID occurs — 10 to 14 days after the holidays. People are back indoors, gathering in groups, mixing and matching their social circles, traveling."

Interim Ellis County Health Department Director Kim Reel offered the following statement.

"CDC recommends getting the COVID vaccine," she said. "We encourage everyone to reach out to their primary care physician to discuss further."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639254519987.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Doctors 'running out of gas' in fight against misinformation</h2>Editor's note:&nbsp;Hays Post contacted several Ellis County students to learn what they have heard about the COVID-19 vaccine amongst peers and on social media. The quotes below are the responses, without attribution.&nbsp;Hays PostDespite last month's decision to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html">authorize COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone age 5 and older</a>, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported last week the overall vaccination rate in Ellis County for those age 12 and older remains just over 50 percent — well below the statewide average of 65 percent.<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(21)00424-7/fulltext">A September study from England published by Lancet</a> showed about half of teens age 12 and older were either hesitant or would opt out of the vaccine altogether.Dr. Heather Harris, chief medical officer at HaysMed, and Dr. Michelle Pope, pediatrician at <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/pediatrics/">Hays Pediatric Center</a>, said teen hesitancy is a conversation they have on a regular basis with patients and parents."Often, whatever the parents have decided for themselves, obviously there will be a similar decision for the kids," Pope said. She said the most common concern is that the vaccine was "so rushed.""It's not really true. Parts of the process have been in place for over a decade," Pope said, noting development of the MRNA science used for the COVID vaccine began when SARS and MERS threatened to become a significant health issue. "The technology is definitely not new. It just feels new ... because SARS and MERS never became a pandemic."Harris said she believes part of the hesitancy stems from a more base instinct."At the end of the day, kids don't like shots," she said. "But that just has to be 'time to be a parent.' You know they're going to be fine. There's just more fear than there is harm."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639254081806.png" alt="Dr. Heather Harris" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Heather Harris</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Fighting misinformation</h2>Both Harris and Pope offered the reassurance that the vaccine has been proven overwhelmingly safe – despite misinformation many children are faced with on social media."Kids get multiple vaccines over their life, and for the majority, there's very little concern about it," Harris said. "The scientific community has provided us with safe and effective vaccines, and there's no concern that this is any different."(The COVID vaccine's safety) has been politicized, but we all know it's just not true. Over a billion people have been vaccinated with very little to no harm."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639332626178.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22378331">RELATED: Click here for information on testing and vaccinations from the Ellis County Health Department.</a>A recurring bit of misinformation both Harris and Pope have heard is in regard to fertility in teen girls, although Pope noted there are studies actually showing heightened risk for unvaccinated men diagnosed with natural COVID to develop sterility. With the vaccine, however, Pope added that has not been shown to be a risk."They're spreading rumors amongst each other, and they don't have the right information to understand the misinformation," Harris said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639332537755.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Pope said the data shows children and adults have the same occurrence of mild reaction to the vaccine as adults — about 50 percent. She noted the vast majority of those reactions — site tenderness, fatigue and aches — happen within 12 to 24 hours of the shot, are short-lived and treatable with over-the-counter pain reliever.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639266087636.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>She noted that children who contract natural COVID, however, have an increased risk of long-term effects, including "pins and needles" nerve inflammation, joint aches, extreme fatigue and headaches.Pope acknowledged there have been cases of myocarditis — inflamation of the heart muscle — in teens following the vaccine, but noted natural COVID causes the same condition and can create permanent, long-term damage to the heart.Vaccine-related myocarditis is "very, very rare," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639251587003.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clinical trials have shown no occurrence of myocarditis in children age 5 to 11, according to <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/covid-19-vaccine-kids-how-we-know-it-s-safe">reports from the American Medical Association published in mid-November. </a><h2>Beds and bodies</h2>Harris again noted that the delta variant of COVID is affecting the younger population more seriously than the original strain, with the average COVID inpatient age now about 60 years old. Hospital stays have become longer and the outcomes have become more treacherous for otherwise healthy people."A great majority of those being hospitalized are unvaccinated. They're quite sick, have long hospitalizations, a long recovery and we're starting to see more deaths occur .. in relatively young people," she said. "The 50- to 60-year-old group has been pretty stubborn about getting the vaccine, and they're the ones being hospitalized."While the majority of inpatients at HaysMed had been from outside the county in recent weeks, as of Tuesday, about half of the 20-plus COVID inpatients were Ellis County residents. There have been some breakthrough cases of COVID in vaccinated patients, but Harris said most of those individuals were already immunocompromised or elderly.Hospitalization of COVID patients —&nbsp;the vast majority unvaccinated — continues to take its toll on the staff at HaysMed, which, like most health care institutions across the state and nation, is fighting staffing issues. HaysMed also has been intermittently closed to out-of-county transfers over recent months with the influx of COVID inpatients."We're in need of nurses, all levels of hospital functions," Harris said. "We're short-staffed in multiple departments. ... If we were only left with those vaccinated, we would just have a handful of COVID patients."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639254169095.png" alt="Dr. Michelle Pope" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Michelle Pope</figcaption>
 </figure>Pope said that while staffing levels at the pediatric center are not a concern, the number of COVID patients occupying beds is an issue when a child must be admitted for any condition. With a more vigorous flu season expected and the annual uptick of RSV expected over the next three months, this means the potential for more pediatric transfers out of HaysMed. She said it's common in a normal year for pediatric patients to be admitted for influenza or RSV. "We rely upon the same nurses, who are in short supply," she said. "The COVID patients are taking up resources for RSV patients," noting children have been transferred to Kansas Mercy Hospital or Wichita due to space and staff concerns.<h2>'An interesting conversation'</h2>Pope said she encounters three main mindsets after asking her patients' parents if they have been vaccinated."It's an interesting conversation," she said. "The response is 'yes' or a quiet 'no' or a very robust 'no.' "When I ask 'Then what are your concerns?' ... 25 to 50 percent of them don't want to talk about it. There's no conversation to be had. I restate the science, tell them I have no concerns and tell them I've put my money where my mouth is ..."Of the "hard no" parents, she added, "I don't think I've had much success. The 'soft nos,' I've convinced some of the parents to get the vaccine, which is probably the first step to getting the kids vaccinated."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639334167087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harris said the vaccine discussion is a frustration for herself and the hospital staff."It's frustrating and sad to know so many people don't have to get so sick," she said. "I see it on a regular occurence with unvaccinated patients I've counseled. ... They don't get vaccinated, and they pass away or have weeks and months of getting better."We keep trying to encourage people every day the best we can, but we kind of start running out of gas."Pope said the staff of the pediatric center is "really exhausted" after nearly two years of battling COVID. She noted that many times the pediatric staff is the parents' first real conversation with a health professional, as parents with children often spend more time in a doctor's office with their kids than with their primary care physician. Pope added that the pediatric staff has been providing vaccinations before the clinic opens, meaning staffers have been working early since May or June. <h2>The risk</h2>The risk, Harris said, isn't the vaccine or necessarily that teens will become extremely ill —&nbsp;although she said there has been a steady increase in youth hospitalizations since the delta variant arrived in Kansas.A larger concern is that teens and college students are "highly effective at spreading illness.""There are multiple examples where we've seen teenagers, inadvertently, who have been sick with COVID and then have spread it to elderly grandparents —&nbsp;and the grandparents have passed away," she said. "You have to protect the people around you."Teens are also developing socially and educationally, and COVID can be a major life disruption."(The vaccine) is protecting them from missing school, missing activities," she said. "And if you can keep your kiddo from not feeling terrible for 10 to 14 days, that doesn't seem like such a terrible idea."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639333645643.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The decision</h2>Both Harris and Pope said there is a time when parents have to parent when to comes to the vaccine."More kids have died from COVID than influenza in any year," Pope said. "It's mild for most kids, but still significant. ... You just never know if that's going to be your kid or not."Teenagers should be part of the conversation because we're teaching them to be adults, right?" she added. "You're either going to get COVID or get the vaccine. We can't make COVID go away. But we can control it."She noted "natural immunity" for those who have previously contracted COVID is not nearly as effective as the vaccine. When the body attacks a natural virus, it creates a wide variety of proteins to ward off a wide variety of potential causes. With the vaccine, those proteins are aimed directly at COVID."If you get the vaccine after you had had COVID, you boost that spike protein that has the most benefit," Pope said, adding "coronavirus has always been here. We just didn't have one that made people this sick."Harris reiterated that the vaccines are safe and effective. "At some point, it's just time to be the parent and help them make good decisions and have an environment of wellness," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639265178870.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With the Ellis County case rate curve ominously similar to the fall and winter of 2020, Harris said the trend could continue. "December matches the wave from last year," she said. "This is the time of the year when the peak of COVID occurs — 10 to 14 days after the holidays. People are back indoors, gathering in groups, mixing and matching their social circles, traveling."Interim Ellis County Health Department Director Kim Reel offered the following statement."CDC recommends getting the COVID vaccine," she said. "We encourage everyone to reach out to their primary care physician to discuss further."

Hays docs: Battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge

The 12th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW in Hays,22nd and Vine. 

The Christmas meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, and a dinner roll. The Christmas meal is donated and prepared by the men of the VFW, who give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare the meal. The dinner is free to the community, with donations accepted. Donations are in turn given to organizations in Hays that reach the community.&nbsp; With&nbsp;the busyness that often comes during the holiday seasons, Christmas can quickly become about something other than it's true purpose. The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community of Hays together to enjoy a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season — celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, and it allows people to experience the love of Christ through a Christmas meal, served by the&nbsp;community to the community.&nbsp;

Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are unable to make it to the dinner. The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and God has proven year after year for this to be true with the Community Christmas Dinner, thanks to Christ’s leading and the community members volunteering their time each year.

For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and after in decorating and cleaning the VFW Hall. Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, cutting desserts, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning after the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time. 

For community members who cannot make it to the dinner and would like meal&nbsp;delivery, or who would like to deliver take-out to homebound individuals, contact using the information below. If wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation, also use the following contact information: <a href="tel:785-625-5528" target="_blank">785-625-5528</a>&nbsp;(thru 12/16/21)&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-259-9735" target="_blank">785-259-9735</a>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com" target="_blank">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639148833544.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe 12th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW in Hays,22nd and Vine. The Christmas meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, and a dinner roll. The Christmas meal is donated and prepared by the men of the VFW, who give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare the meal. The dinner is free to the community, with donations accepted. Donations are in turn given to organizations in Hays that reach the community.&nbsp; With&nbsp;the busyness that often comes during the holiday seasons, Christmas can quickly become about something other than it's true purpose. The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community of Hays together to enjoy a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season — celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, and it allows people to experience the love of Christ through a Christmas meal, served by the&nbsp;community to the community.&nbsp;Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are unable to make it to the dinner. The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and God has proven year after year for this to be true with the Community Christmas Dinner, thanks to Christ’s leading and the community members volunteering their time each year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639148864934.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and after in decorating and cleaning the VFW Hall. Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, cutting desserts, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning after the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time. For community members who cannot make it to the dinner and would like meal&nbsp;delivery, or who would like to deliver take-out to homebound individuals, contact using the information below. If wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation, also use the following contact information: <a href="tel:785-625-5528" target="_blank">785-625-5528</a>&nbsp;(thru 12/16/21)&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-259-9735" target="_blank">785-259-9735</a>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com" target="_blank">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

12th Community Christmas Dinner scheduled in Hays

RUSSELL —As a testament to the wide swath of lives he touched
throughout his life, area residents and national leaders filled the St. Mary
Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell Saturday morning to remember Sen.
Bob Dole.

Attending the service was a true cross-section of Americans,
including a mix of area and national politicians, alongside locals who knew Dole — the politician and&nbsp; the man.

As the steady stream of people moved into the church, many
paused by the casket placed directly in front of the entryway. Some said
goodbye to a friend for the last time. Some took in the spectacle and history
of it all. But all paid last respects to the man who never forgot where he
came from.

Dole's admiration for his hometown and western Kansas was on
full display as Dole was eulogized.

"As we gather here, today, we come together to salute
our state's most favorite of favorite sons in the greatest of the greatest
generation," said Gov. Laura Kelly, "and we pause to reflect with
immense gratitude on all that Bob Dole's life meant to Kansas and to Kansans,
to our nation and to the world."

Sen. Jerry Moran, along with recounting his admiration for
Dole, shared how growing up in Russell shaped his life and career.

"Though a national leader, he would always be the son
of the Kansas plains," he said. "This is what Bob Dole said, 'The
first thing you learn on the prairie is the relative size of a man compared to
the lay of the land and under the immense sky where I was born and raised a man
is very small. And if he thinks otherwise, he's wrong.'"

Former Sen. Pat Roberts said life on the prairie was
always an influence on Dole.

"You can get an education on the farm or in a factory,
in a science lab, in a church pew, most of all, if you're from Russell — and I
would add Kansas, America – you can get an education just by looking at life
around you," Roberts said.

And Sen. Roger Marshall said Dole shared with him, early
in his political career while facing a difficult vote, that the answer could
always be found by going home. 

"Senator Dole looked at me and said, 'Roger, just go
back to Kansas, the people of Kansas will tell you the answer to all your tough
votes,' " Marshall said.

Dole frequently cited his hometown sensibilities as a path
toward effective leadership and valued compromise, a trait often missing in
today's political landscape. 

While speaking of Dole's legacy and service, Moran noted that
desire to work together for the better good championed by Dole is often missing
today.

"There's something about small towns where we still get
along and get along well enough to solve our problems," he said. "Less
so but unfortunately, in the nation's capital. We respect our neighbors, we see
them in the grocery store, we see the football game on Friday night, and if we fought
among ourselves all the time like sometimes national politics exists today, our
towns will be a thing of the past."

Moran said Dole set the highest example of servant
leadership by keeping local connections and understanding the people the way
Dole did.

"I
hope those days are not past, in which the connection between elected
officials and the people they represent are about what we have done to make
their lives better," Moran said.

Kelly said she hopes Dole's example can be a guide to
leaders now and in the future.

"In his last letter to the American people published
this week, Dole wrote, 'Americans never achieved greatness when Republicans and
Democrats simply managed to work together or tolerate each other,' " she
said. " 'We have overcome our biggest challenges only we focused on our
shared values, and experiences, these common ties form much stronger bonds than
political parties.' "

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639259088786.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostRUSSELL —As a testament to the wide swath of lives he touched
throughout his life, area residents and national leaders filled the St. Mary
Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell Saturday morning to remember Sen.
Bob Dole.Attending the service was a true cross-section of Americans,
including a mix of area and national politicians, alongside locals who knew Dole — the politician and&nbsp; the man.As the steady stream of people moved into the church, many
paused by the casket placed directly in front of the entryway. Some said
goodbye to a friend for the last time. Some took in the spectacle and history
of it all. But all paid last respects to the man who never forgot where he
came from.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639259101278.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dole's admiration for his hometown and western Kansas was on
full display as Dole was eulogized."As we gather here, today, we come together to salute
our state's most favorite of favorite sons in the greatest of the greatest
generation," said Gov. Laura Kelly, "and we pause to reflect with
immense gratitude on all that Bob Dole's life meant to Kansas and to Kansans,
to our nation and to the world."Sen. Jerry Moran, along with recounting his admiration for
Dole, shared how growing up in Russell shaped his life and career.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639258943841.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Though a national leader, he would always be the son
of the Kansas plains," he said. "This is what Bob Dole said, 'The
first thing you learn on the prairie is the relative size of a man compared to
the lay of the land and under the immense sky where I was born and raised a man
is very small. And if he thinks otherwise, he's wrong.'"Former Sen. Pat Roberts said life on the prairie was
always an influence on Dole."You can get an education on the farm or in a factory,
in a science lab, in a church pew, most of all, if you're from Russell — and I
would add Kansas, America – you can get an education just by looking at life
around you," Roberts said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639258999469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>And Sen. Roger Marshall said Dole shared with him, early
in his political career while facing a difficult vote, that the answer could
always be found by going home. "Senator Dole looked at me and said, 'Roger, just go
back to Kansas, the people of Kansas will tell you the answer to all your tough
votes,' " Marshall said.Dole frequently cited his hometown sensibilities as a path
toward effective leadership and valued compromise, a trait often missing in
today's political landscape. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639259156725.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While speaking of Dole's legacy and service, Moran noted that
desire to work together for the better good championed by Dole is often missing
today."There's something about small towns where we still get
along and get along well enough to solve our problems," he said. "Less
so but unfortunately, in the nation's capital. We respect our neighbors, we see
them in the grocery store, we see the football game on Friday night, and if we fought
among ourselves all the time like sometimes national politics exists today, our
towns will be a thing of the past."Moran said Dole set the highest example of servant
leadership by keeping local connections and understanding the people the way
Dole did.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639259052752.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"I
hope those days are not past, in which the connection between elected
officials and the people they represent are about what we have done to make
their lives better," Moran said.Kelly said she hopes Dole's example can be a guide to
leaders now and in the future."In his last letter to the American people published
this week, Dole wrote, 'Americans never achieved greatness when Republicans and
Democrats simply managed to work together or tolerate each other,' " she
said. " 'We have overcome our biggest challenges only we focused on our
shared values, and experiences, these common ties form much stronger bonds than
political parties.' "<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639258853523.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Russell, Kansas, celebrates Dole: 'Most favorite of favorite sons'

LOGAN — The Hansen Museum in Logan has announced&nbsp;Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence, a spectacular overview of a new form of bead art, the ndwango (“cloth”), developed by a community of women living and working together in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The plain black fabric that serves as a foundation for the Ubuhle women’s exquisite beadwork is reminiscent of the Xhosa headscarves and skirts that many of them wore growing up. By stretching this textile like a canvas, the artists use colored Czech glass beads to transform the flat cloth into a contemporary art form of remarkable visual depth. Using skills handed down through generations and working in their own unique style “directly from the soul” (in the words of artist Ntombephi Ntobela), the women create abstract as well as figurative subjects for their ndwangos. Ubuhle Women is on view at the Hansen Museum through Jan. 23.

Ubuhle means “beauty” in the Xhosa and Zulu languages and well describes the shimmering quality of light on glass that for the Xhosa people has a special spiritual significance. From a distance, each panel of the ndwango seems to present a continuous surface; but as the viewer moves closer and each tiny individual bead catches the light, the meticulous skill and labor that went into each work—the sheer scale of ambition—becomes stunningly apparent. A single panel can take more than 10 months to complete.

Migration has defined the history of modern South Africa. The late-19th-century discovery of gold and diamonds—and, to a lesser extent, the cultivation of sugar cane—transfigured South African society with its demands for a large, flexible workforce of able men. As workers left their homesteads in rural areas to earn cash salaries, traditional social systems based on direct production from the land began to change. Low pay and harsh working conditions forced many cane cutters to live apart from their wives and families for up to nine months of the year, which led to a breakdown of family life and traditional values.&nbsp; Ubuhle was conceived in response to this social and cultural transformation. Established in 1999 by two women—Ntombephi “Induna” Ntobela and Bev Gibson—on a former sugar plantation in KwaZulu-Natal, Ubuhle began as a way of creating employment for rural women by combining traditional skills and making them profitable. By incorporating a skill that many local women already had—beadwork, a customary form of artistic expression for generations of South African women—and teaching it to those who did not, they began to provide women with a private source of income and a route to financial independence.&nbsp;

Since 2006, the Ubuhle community has lost five artists to HIV/AIDS and other illnesses, nearly halving the number of active artists. Many of the ndwangos thus function as memorials to Ubuhle sisters who have lost their lives. Remembering the dead is a key motivation for the creation of many of these artworks, and it imbues them with a spiritual significance. 
 
Due to the slow, meticulous process of creating a ndwango, the act of beading itself becomes a form of therapy: a way of setting down the issues that are closest to the artists’ hearts; a way of grieving; and a place to encode feelings and memories. In a sense—through their presence in the artist’s thoughts during the act of creation—the deceased enter the very fabric of the work, and so the ndwango becomes a site of memory.&nbsp;

Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence was developed by the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum, Washington, DC, in cooperation with Curators Bev Gibson, Ubuhle Beads, and James Green, and is organized for tour by International Arts &amp; Artists, Washington, DC.

Click <a href="https://www.artsandartists.org/exhibitions/ubuhle-women/#tour-schedule">HERE</a> for updated tour dates.

The Ubuhle community exists today due mainly to the determination of two women, Bev Gibson and Ntombephi Ntobela, who co-founded Ubuhle in 1999. Ntombephi is a master beader from the Eastern Cape whose tremendous skill, both as artist and teacher, has been the foundation block of this community. Ntombephi is known as “Induna,” which means “leader,” a term of great respect in South Africa. The title also suggests the responsibility she feels for the community as guardian of its future. Bev herself does not bead, but she has created the space for Ubuhle artists to explore, experiment, and transform the traditional art form. Bev has also been an indomitable source of energy and persistence in the emergence of Ubuhle’s growing vision. She and Ntombephi each bring their own unique skills to the establishment of the community, and it is largely thanks to them that these works exist at all.

International Arts &amp; Artists in Washington, DC, is a nonprofit arts service organization dedicated to increasing cross-cultural understanding and exposure to the arts internationally, through exhibitions, programs and services to artists, arts institutions and the public. Visit <a href="http://www.artsandartists.org">www.artsandartists.org</a>

The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday 9-12 &amp; 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 &amp; 1-5; Sundays &amp; Holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Museum is handicapped accessible, and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information or if you have questions, please contact us at 785-689-4846 or visit our website at hansenmuseum.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638896302079.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLOGAN — The Hansen Museum in Logan has announced&nbsp;Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence, a spectacular overview of a new form of bead art, the ndwango (“cloth”), developed by a community of women living and working together in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The plain black fabric that serves as a foundation for the Ubuhle women’s exquisite beadwork is reminiscent of the Xhosa headscarves and skirts that many of them wore growing up. By stretching this textile like a canvas, the artists use colored Czech glass beads to transform the flat cloth into a contemporary art form of remarkable visual depth. Using skills handed down through generations and working in their own unique style “directly from the soul” (in the words of artist Ntombephi Ntobela), the women create abstract as well as figurative subjects for their ndwangos. Ubuhle Women is on view at the Hansen Museum through Jan. 23.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638896318686.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ubuhle means “beauty” in the Xhosa and Zulu languages and well describes the shimmering quality of light on glass that for the Xhosa people has a special spiritual significance. From a distance, each panel of the ndwango seems to present a continuous surface; but as the viewer moves closer and each tiny individual bead catches the light, the meticulous skill and labor that went into each work—the sheer scale of ambition—becomes stunningly apparent. A single panel can take more than 10 months to complete.Migration has defined the history of modern South Africa. The late-19th-century discovery of gold and diamonds—and, to a lesser extent, the cultivation of sugar cane—transfigured South African society with its demands for a large, flexible workforce of able men. As workers left their homesteads in rural areas to earn cash salaries, traditional social systems based on direct production from the land began to change. Low pay and harsh working conditions forced many cane cutters to live apart from their wives and families for up to nine months of the year, which led to a breakdown of family life and traditional values.&nbsp; Ubuhle was conceived in response to this social and cultural transformation. Established in 1999 by two women—Ntombephi “Induna” Ntobela and Bev Gibson—on a former sugar plantation in KwaZulu-Natal, Ubuhle began as a way of creating employment for rural women by combining traditional skills and making them profitable. By incorporating a skill that many local women already had—beadwork, a customary form of artistic expression for generations of South African women—and teaching it to those who did not, they began to provide women with a private source of income and a route to financial independence.&nbsp;Since 2006, the Ubuhle community has lost five artists to HIV/AIDS and other illnesses, nearly halving the number of active artists. Many of the ndwangos thus function as memorials to Ubuhle sisters who have lost their lives. Remembering the dead is a key motivation for the creation of many of these artworks, and it imbues them with a spiritual significance. 
 
Due to the slow, meticulous process of creating a ndwango, the act of beading itself becomes a form of therapy: a way of setting down the issues that are closest to the artists’ hearts; a way of grieving; and a place to encode feelings and memories. In a sense—through their presence in the artist’s thoughts during the act of creation—the deceased enter the very fabric of the work, and so the ndwango becomes a site of memory.&nbsp;Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence was developed by the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum, Washington, DC, in cooperation with Curators Bev Gibson, Ubuhle Beads, and James Green, and is organized for tour by International Arts &amp; Artists, Washington, DC.Click <a href="https://www.artsandartists.org/exhibitions/ubuhle-women/#tour-schedule">HERE</a> for updated tour dates.The Ubuhle community exists today due mainly to the determination of two women, Bev Gibson and Ntombephi Ntobela, who co-founded Ubuhle in 1999. Ntombephi is a master beader from the Eastern Cape whose tremendous skill, both as artist and teacher, has been the foundation block of this community. Ntombephi is known as “Induna,” which means “leader,” a term of great respect in South Africa. The title also suggests the responsibility she feels for the community as guardian of its future. Bev herself does not bead, but she has created the space for Ubuhle artists to explore, experiment, and transform the traditional art form. Bev has also been an indomitable source of energy and persistence in the emergence of Ubuhle’s growing vision. She and Ntombephi each bring their own unique skills to the establishment of the community, and it is largely thanks to them that these works exist at all.International Arts &amp; Artists in Washington, DC, is a nonprofit arts service organization dedicated to increasing cross-cultural understanding and exposure to the arts internationally, through exhibitions, programs and services to artists, arts institutions and the public. Visit <a href="http://www.artsandartists.org">www.artsandartists.org</a>The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday 9-12 &amp; 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 &amp; 1-5; Sundays &amp; Holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Museum is handicapped accessible, and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information or if you have questions, please contact us at 785-689-4846 or visit our website at hansenmuseum.org.

Hansen Museum hosts display of African bead art

The Technology Services Department at Fort Hays State University has open positions on our team.&nbsp; We are looking for an Information Security Officer, a Windows System Administrator, a Desktop Support Specialist, and an Applications Developer.&nbsp; 

FHSU offers 22 days of annual vacation, professional development opportunities, tuition assistance, and a great work environment! 

If you think you have the skills we need and are looking for a great opportunity to join an awesome team, check out the full job descriptions and apply on our website: <a href="https://fhsu.edu/technology">https://fhsu.edu/technology</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639159107233.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Technology Services Department at Fort Hays State University has open positions on our team.&nbsp; We are looking for an Information Security Officer, a Windows System Administrator, a Desktop Support Specialist, and an Applications Developer.&nbsp; FHSU offers 22 days of annual vacation, professional development opportunities, tuition assistance, and a great work environment! If you think you have the skills we need and are looking for a great opportunity to join an awesome team, check out the full job descriptions and apply on our website: <a href="https://fhsu.edu/technology">https://fhsu.edu/technology</a>

Snowy Owl spotted at Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend

Fort Hays State University prides itself on meeting the workforce needs of northwest Kansas and continually searches for ways to accomplish this goal.&nbsp;

Accordingly, the university created the Dane G. Hansen Tiger Comeback Scholarship, made possible with a generous grant awarded by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.

This initiative was designed to welcome back former FHSU students who were close to completing their degree but for various reasons stopped before finalizing degree requirements. Available to both online and on-campus students, this scholarship provides financial assistance for those who are close to completing their degree program.&nbsp;

Are you a former Fort Hays State student who ended your college education just short of getting a degree? Maybe it was because of family responsibilities? Or job demands? Or maybe because bills needed to get paid and there was nothing left to pay tuition?

Whatever the case, there is a critical need for professionals with a college degree in northwest Kansas. You could be the answer to this dilemma and “cross the finish line” to that once-elusive degree.

One such student, Christy Rothchild from Salina, was working toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing online. Rothchild learned she was pregnant with twins and had too many credit hours left to complete her degree the semester her babies were due. So she decided to put school on hold – a difficult, but wise, decision since her twins came early. She then had to assume the role of a busy mother for Aurora and Twila.

A few years later, the Tiger Comeback Scholarship caught Rothchild’s eye in the FHSU scholarship listing, and she decided she would give it a try.

Looking back on her experience, Rothchild noted, “Returning to Fort Hays State to finish was the best decision I ever made. I wish I had done it sooner.”

Crediting the leadership of Dr. Jenny Manry, professor and chair of the Department of Nursing, Rothchild successfully completed the required courses online, appreciating Manry’s tireless work to support students and make grants available for them.

Upon earning her bachelor’s degree in 2017, Rothchild entered directly into the online BSN to DNP (Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice) program at Fort Hays State.

She is on track to graduate with her BSN to DNP in May 2022, and that will ultimately allow her to provide primary care across the life span.

After earning her undergraduate degree, Rothchild worked in a variety of leadership roles in acute care, then moved into her current work for Craig Homecare, doing pediatric home health care while she finishes graduate school.

She credits the Tiger Comeback Scholarship for helping her continue her education while raising a family, which now includes three daughters. Baby Lyra joined the Rothchild family this past May.

“I have that scholarship to thank for being able to finish at all and set my career path on becoming a nurse practitioner,” Rothchild said. “It helped us so much.”

Rothchild said she would encourage other students who might be considering returning to FHSU after some time away to check out the Dane G. Hansen Tiger Comeback Scholarship.

“This is the perfect time to step back and evaluate your options for both your education and career,” Rothchild said. “The last couple of years have taught us what is really important. The extra time with family is worth ‘leveling up’ your career to accommodate what really matters.”

If interested, or if you know someone in this situation who should be informed, check the requirements for eligibility at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtBYm3-2BkSPigApJicGhfEtNJIGuJ19DsTRf3qxhyMEVwkVn0KSA55PKk5ci6uTsfDf6yB1Tt-2FlHFlNxc47YABZUs-3DFj0E_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemdqF0OPtPWH4NlPBkSaerI26znYhUyjUoWCNxu94bIzyDlblAQqjmzQPHt684RArKMrxgISMVeKaHk9JbwwgLK3WSyz1n1IqlMKdAVRl-2FHLMZc6iuc7d-2FmyJZlD8npTNgNr-2FhyAs-2F71nvkjOPVSiau88hLsa6E0rvBwUDiU8I0zHk9lo4Hq6bHTr0-2FHM-2BB4pZ2HAm6Pdn9Kco6vInXIo2KRYlmLdKGAOv4E5ADvBOk9TlmsKv4W1MNLL7zgwqaed0uYaySPvQparGhRZwSaCNOw-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/online/scholarships/dane-g-hansen-tiger-comeback</a>. If you meet the criteria, apply today.

For more information on the Tiger Comeback Scholarship, contact Dr. Greg Atkins with FHSU Online either by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gjatkins@fhsu.edu">gjatkins@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or phone at 785-628-4291.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638996741106.jpeg" alt="Christy Rothchild pictured with her husband, Brent, and their twin daughters." />
 <figcaption>Christy Rothchild pictured with her husband, Brent, and their twin daughters.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University prides itself on meeting the workforce needs of northwest Kansas and continually searches for ways to accomplish this goal.&nbsp;Accordingly, the university created the Dane G. Hansen Tiger Comeback Scholarship, made possible with a generous grant awarded by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.This initiative was designed to welcome back former FHSU students who were close to completing their degree but for various reasons stopped before finalizing degree requirements. Available to both online and on-campus students, this scholarship provides financial assistance for those who are close to completing their degree program.&nbsp;Are you a former Fort Hays State student who ended your college education just short of getting a degree? Maybe it was because of family responsibilities? Or job demands? Or maybe because bills needed to get paid and there was nothing left to pay tuition?Whatever the case, there is a critical need for professionals with a college degree in northwest Kansas. You could be the answer to this dilemma and “cross the finish line” to that once-elusive degree.One such student, Christy Rothchild from Salina, was working toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing online. Rothchild learned she was pregnant with twins and had too many credit hours left to complete her degree the semester her babies were due. So she decided to put school on hold – a difficult, but wise, decision since her twins came early. She then had to assume the role of a busy mother for Aurora and Twila.A few years later, the Tiger Comeback Scholarship caught Rothchild’s eye in the FHSU scholarship listing, and she decided she would give it a try.Looking back on her experience, Rothchild noted, “Returning to Fort Hays State to finish was the best decision I ever made. I wish I had done it sooner.”Crediting the leadership of Dr. Jenny Manry, professor and chair of the Department of Nursing, Rothchild successfully completed the required courses online, appreciating Manry’s tireless work to support students and make grants available for them.Upon earning her bachelor’s degree in 2017, Rothchild entered directly into the online BSN to DNP (Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice) program at Fort Hays State.She is on track to graduate with her BSN to DNP in May 2022, and that will ultimately allow her to provide primary care across the life span.After earning her undergraduate degree, Rothchild worked in a variety of leadership roles in acute care, then moved into her current work for Craig Homecare, doing pediatric home health care while she finishes graduate school.She credits the Tiger Comeback Scholarship for helping her continue her education while raising a family, which now includes three daughters. Baby Lyra joined the Rothchild family this past May.“I have that scholarship to thank for being able to finish at all and set my career path on becoming a nurse practitioner,” Rothchild said. “It helped us so much.”Rothchild said she would encourage other students who might be considering returning to FHSU after some time away to check out the Dane G. Hansen Tiger Comeback Scholarship.“This is the perfect time to step back and evaluate your options for both your education and career,” Rothchild said. “The last couple of years have taught us what is really important. The extra time with family is worth ‘leveling up’ your career to accommodate what really matters.”If interested, or if you know someone in this situation who should be informed, check the requirements for eligibility at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtBYm3-2BkSPigApJicGhfEtNJIGuJ19DsTRf3qxhyMEVwkVn0KSA55PKk5ci6uTsfDf6yB1Tt-2FlHFlNxc47YABZUs-3DFj0E_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemdqF0OPtPWH4NlPBkSaerI26znYhUyjUoWCNxu94bIzyDlblAQqjmzQPHt684RArKMrxgISMVeKaHk9JbwwgLK3WSyz1n1IqlMKdAVRl-2FHLMZc6iuc7d-2FmyJZlD8npTNgNr-2FhyAs-2F71nvkjOPVSiau88hLsa6E0rvBwUDiU8I0zHk9lo4Hq6bHTr0-2FHM-2BB4pZ2HAm6Pdn9Kco6vInXIo2KRYlmLdKGAOv4E5ADvBOk9TlmsKv4W1MNLL7zgwqaed0uYaySPvQparGhRZwSaCNOw-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/online/scholarships/dane-g-hansen-tiger-comeback</a>. If you meet the criteria, apply today.For more information on the Tiger Comeback Scholarship, contact Dr. Greg Atkins with FHSU Online either by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gjatkins@fhsu.edu">gjatkins@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or phone at 785-628-4291.

Hansen Tiger Comeback Scholarship: A lifeline to success

Two northwest Kansas towns recently were applauded for their downtowns by online ranker, OnlyInYourState.com.

Hays and Atwood made the list, ranking fourth and seventh.

Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kansas/best-small-downtowns-ks/">HERE</a> to read the entire article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638911449771.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Two northwest Kansas towns recently were applauded for their downtowns by online ranker, OnlyInYourState.com.Hays and Atwood made the list, ranking fourth and seventh.Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kansas/best-small-downtowns-ks/">HERE</a> to read the entire article.

Local