By JOE STUMPE KU News Service

Growing up in western Kansas, Tori Gleason knew that the area faces the same kind of health care challenges as most of rural America: a shortage of providers, technology lags, resources strained by population shifts.

So when she became a chiropractor, Gleason returned to share her skill set.

Gleason, who is transgender, often feels like she doesn’t belong in the rural western Kansas town of Goodland. But that doesn’t stop her from trying to make a positive difference here.

“I want to give back to my community and make things different because I have a passion for rural health,” she said.

Since being outed by a medical provider some 4 1/2 years ago, she has faced both harsh opposition and strong support from within the community.

“It was before I was ready to tell my story. It’s frustrating when somebody beats us to the punch, and especially when they don’t do it the way you would have done it.”

She also felt that she’d lost control of some part of her identity. Gleason noted that she was undergoing counseling but had not begun the physical process of transitioning at the time.

“I’ve had death threats, threats of violence against me,” she said. “But that is not to say all of western Kansas is like that.”

In addition to running her practice there since 2008, Gleason served on the board of Goodland Regional Medical Center, a critical access hospital, from 2011 to August of this year. Gleason believes residents of smaller communities deserve the same “health equity” as urban residents.

Now Gleason, a Master of Public Health student at KU School of Medicine-Wichita, wants to use that training to further help another marginalized population segment — the LGBTQ+ community — achieve health equity.

Along with her classes, she is taking part in several research projects into the health care experiences and needs of LGBTQ+. As a consultant, she’s worked with KU, the Masonic Cancer Alliance, American Hospital Association and other organizations on improving outcomes for that population.

Gleason said she might never have enrolled in the MPH program if not for the COVID-19 pandemic, which led KU Wichita to offer it online. Living 17 miles from the Colorado state line, with joint custody of two children, Gleason said it wouldn’t have been practical to travel back and forth to Wichita.

“The pandemic removed a barrier to me,” she said. “I’m in Mountain Time Zone, I’m so far away.”

Gleason, who’s on track to graduate in 2023, grew up in Dodge City and majored in biology at Kansas State University. She earned her doctor of chiropractic degree from Palmer Chiropractic College in Davenport, Iowa.

One of Gleason’s specialties is working with athletes. Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland is known for its wrestling team, and Gleason often collaborates with the program’s physician, trainer and physical therapist to “get an athlete back on the mat as soon as possible.”

“It’s a team concept. It’s a place where you check your ego at the door.”

The pandemic has also allowed Gleason to take part in research remotely that otherwise might not have been possible. She is involved in studies of several different LGBTQ+ age groups, as well as how the health care system as a whole serves that community. When it comes to research, Gleason believes there should be “nothing about us without us.”

Part of her passion for marginalized populations comes from her background growing up in Dodge City, when she found no resources or help for a young queer person. Her desire is that “kids not go through the same thing I did as a kid.”

Gleason acknowledges that living in Goodland presents challenges, as she may be the first openly transgender some residents have encountered.

But many are supportive, especially the athletes with whom she works.

“The vast majority of people under 25 are fine with it. I have high school students who will correct their parents on the proper pronouns to use.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638897500820.jpeg" alt="Goodland resident Tori Gleason is a Master of Public Health student at KU School of Medicine-Wichita. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Goodland resident Tori Gleason is a Master of Public Health student at KU School of Medicine-Wichita. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE STUMPE KU News ServiceGrowing up in western Kansas, Tori Gleason knew that the area faces the same kind of health care challenges as most of rural America: a shortage of providers, technology lags, resources strained by population shifts.So when she became a chiropractor, Gleason returned to share her skill set.Gleason, who is transgender, often feels like she doesn’t belong in the rural western Kansas town of Goodland. But that doesn’t stop her from trying to make a positive difference here.“I want to give back to my community and make things different because I have a passion for rural health,” she said.Since being outed by a medical provider some 4 1/2 years ago, she has faced both harsh opposition and strong support from within the community.“It was before I was ready to tell my story. It’s frustrating when somebody beats us to the punch, and especially when they don’t do it the way you would have done it.”She also felt that she’d lost control of some part of her identity. Gleason noted that she was undergoing counseling but had not begun the physical process of transitioning at the time.“I’ve had death threats, threats of violence against me,” she said. “But that is not to say all of western Kansas is like that.”In addition to running her practice there since 2008, Gleason served on the board of Goodland Regional Medical Center, a critical access hospital, from 2011 to August of this year. Gleason believes residents of smaller communities deserve the same “health equity” as urban residents.Now Gleason, a Master of Public Health student at KU School of Medicine-Wichita, wants to use that training to further help another marginalized population segment — the LGBTQ+ community — achieve health equity.Along with her classes, she is taking part in several research projects into the health care experiences and needs of LGBTQ+. As a consultant, she’s worked with KU, the Masonic Cancer Alliance, American Hospital Association and other organizations on improving outcomes for that population.Gleason said she might never have enrolled in the MPH program if not for the COVID-19 pandemic, which led KU Wichita to offer it online. Living 17 miles from the Colorado state line, with joint custody of two children, Gleason said it wouldn’t have been practical to travel back and forth to Wichita.“The pandemic removed a barrier to me,” she said. “I’m in Mountain Time Zone, I’m so far away.”Gleason, who’s on track to graduate in 2023, grew up in Dodge City and majored in biology at Kansas State University. She earned her doctor of chiropractic degree from Palmer Chiropractic College in Davenport, Iowa.One of Gleason’s specialties is working with athletes. Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland is known for its wrestling team, and Gleason often collaborates with the program’s physician, trainer and physical therapist to “get an athlete back on the mat as soon as possible.”“It’s a team concept. It’s a place where you check your ego at the door.”The pandemic has also allowed Gleason to take part in research remotely that otherwise might not have been possible. She is involved in studies of several different LGBTQ+ age groups, as well as how the health care system as a whole serves that community. When it comes to research, Gleason believes there should be “nothing about us without us.”Part of her passion for marginalized populations comes from her background growing up in Dodge City, when she found no resources or help for a young queer person. Her desire is that “kids not go through the same thing I did as a kid.”Gleason acknowledges that living in Goodland presents challenges, as she may be the first openly transgender some residents have encountered.But many are supportive, especially the athletes with whom she works.“The vast majority of people under 25 are fine with it. I have high school students who will correct their parents on the proper pronouns to use.”

Goodland student helping LGBTQ+ community achieve health equity 

Three-day weather outlook

Collecting a representative silage sample is a difficult task and should involve more than just taking a few handfuls of silage from the face of the pile or the bunker silo.&nbsp; Corn silage and sorghum silages are a mixture of stover and grain.&nbsp; In some cases, small grain silages may also contain grain.&nbsp; This presence of grain in the silage creates some special challenges when obtaining a representative sample.

The best way to obtain a representative sample would be to first deface the amount of silage needed for a daily feeding.&nbsp; In an ideal setting, approximately 12inches of the entire face would be fed each day. The defaced silage should be mixed with a loader or a mixer wagon prior to sampling and feeding.

Once the silage is mixed, take a small scoop and scoop 15-20 samples from around the silage into a clean bucket.&nbsp; When scooping, try to scoop a similar amount with each scoop.&nbsp; Scooping will reduce the loss of finer particles from the samples.&nbsp; Simply grabbing a handful will generally reduce the amount of fine particles and increase the amount of the larger particles of stover.&nbsp; Next, blend the contents of the bucket by hand, rolling, or dumping on a small tarp and repeatedly lifting alternate corners of the tarp to mix the sample.&nbsp; Once the sample is mixed, if not already in a pile on a clean table, dump into a single pile and begin to quarter the sample into equal portions.&nbsp; You want to send about one pound of sample to the lab.&nbsp; So depending on the amount of material you have collected, continue to divide the sample into pie shaped portions until you have one pound of material for the sample being shipped to the lab.&nbsp; Make sure you include all the fine particles in the sample being shipped.&nbsp; An alternative method to dividing the sample into pie shaped portions would be to simply scoop 4-6 amounts into the sample bag until you have a one-pound sample, taking care to include all fines etc. in the sample.

Frequently we are asked how often one should submit samples to the lab.&nbsp; It really depends on the amount of silage you are feeding and the consistency of the silage mass that you created.&nbsp; For smaller feeding operations, once a month sampling is generally adequate as long as the silage is consistent.&nbsp; However, if the composition of the silage is variable, then more frequent sampling would be needed.&nbsp; In larger feeding operations, weekly or twice weekly sampling is recommended.&nbsp; On-farm moisture determination is recommended one to two times each week.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Collecting a representative silage sample is a difficult task and should involve more than just taking a few handfuls of silage from the face of the pile or the bunker silo.&nbsp; Corn silage and sorghum silages are a mixture of stover and grain.&nbsp; In some cases, small grain silages may also contain grain.&nbsp; This presence of grain in the silage creates some special challenges when obtaining a representative sample.The best way to obtain a representative sample would be to first deface the amount of silage needed for a daily feeding.&nbsp; In an ideal setting, approximately 12inches of the entire face would be fed each day. The defaced silage should be mixed with a loader or a mixer wagon prior to sampling and feeding.Once the silage is mixed, take a small scoop and scoop 15-20 samples from around the silage into a clean bucket.&nbsp; When scooping, try to scoop a similar amount with each scoop.&nbsp; Scooping will reduce the loss of finer particles from the samples.&nbsp; Simply grabbing a handful will generally reduce the amount of fine particles and increase the amount of the larger particles of stover.&nbsp; Next, blend the contents of the bucket by hand, rolling, or dumping on a small tarp and repeatedly lifting alternate corners of the tarp to mix the sample.&nbsp; Once the sample is mixed, if not already in a pile on a clean table, dump into a single pile and begin to quarter the sample into equal portions.&nbsp; You want to send about one pound of sample to the lab.&nbsp; So depending on the amount of material you have collected, continue to divide the sample into pie shaped portions until you have one pound of material for the sample being shipped to the lab.&nbsp; Make sure you include all the fine particles in the sample being shipped.&nbsp; An alternative method to dividing the sample into pie shaped portions would be to simply scoop 4-6 amounts into the sample bag until you have a one-pound sample, taking care to include all fines etc. in the sample.Frequently we are asked how often one should submit samples to the lab.&nbsp; It really depends on the amount of silage you are feeding and the consistency of the silage mass that you created.&nbsp; For smaller feeding operations, once a month sampling is generally adequate as long as the silage is consistent.&nbsp; However, if the composition of the silage is variable, then more frequent sampling would be needed.&nbsp; In larger feeding operations, weekly or twice weekly sampling is recommended.&nbsp; On-farm moisture determination is recommended one to two times each week.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Collecting a proper silage sample

The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys and girls basketball teams open Mid-Continent League play Friday against the Hill City Ringnecks.

The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow at approximately 7:30 p.m. from Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/334476">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys and girls basketball teams open Mid-Continent League play Friday against the Hill City Ringnecks.The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow at approximately 7:30 p.m. from Al Billinger Fieldhouse.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/334476">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/334476?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Hill City

RUSSELL COUNTY—A Northwest Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Friday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Cynthia C. Patterson, 31, Phillipsburg was eastbound on Interstate 70 five mile east of Russell.

The SUV traveled off the roadway to the right, struck the KDOT guardrail and came to rest on the shoulder.

EMS transported Patterson to the hospital in Russell. A 3-year-old in the vehicle was not injured. Patterson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY—A Northwest Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Friday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Cynthia C. Patterson, 31, Phillipsburg was eastbound on Interstate 70 five mile east of Russell.The SUV traveled off the roadway to the right, struck the KDOT guardrail and came to rest on the shoulder.EMS transported Patterson to the hospital in Russell. A 3-year-old in the vehicle was not injured. Patterson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas woman hospitalized after SUV crash on I-70

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 10 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

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

As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 22 COVID-19 inpatients.

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

The KDHE reported Wednesday 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 5,000 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639161400157.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 10 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 22 COVID-19 inpatients.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3fbf9a1d-9473-48af-add6-ac3dfce7c3b6">RELATED: HaysMed releases November COVID stats</a>The KDHE reported Wednesday 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 5,000 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 10 new cases, 5,000 in Ellis Co. since reporting began

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=ksx9e-115142e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

🎤Forward Ever: Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger

On Dec. 9 at approximately 4:20 p.m., the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from the laundry room at Midway Apartments 505 E. 20th in Hays.

Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from the laundry room. Crews entered the room and found cleaning cloths in a dryer that started burning. 

A water fire extinguisher was used to extinguish the small fire. 

Firefighters removed the cleaning cloths from the dryer and carried them outside to cool them off.

Firefighters then removed the dryer from the laundry room to the outside. 

No damage was done to the building and no occupants were injured.

The fire was caused by cooking oil-soaked cloths that were not properly washed before drying. 

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that when washing these type of cleaning cloths that you use the appropriate detergent to wash the cloths to remove the oils. 

We would also like to remind everyone to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays Police Department all responded.


Hays Fire DepartmentOn Dec. 9 at approximately 4:20 p.m., the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from the laundry room at Midway Apartments 505 E. 20th in Hays.Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from the laundry room. Crews entered the room and found cleaning cloths in a dryer that started burning. A water fire extinguisher was used to extinguish the small fire. Firefighters removed the cleaning cloths from the dryer and carried them outside to cool them off.Firefighters then removed the dryer from the laundry room to the outside. No damage was done to the building and no occupants were injured.The fire was caused by cooking oil-soaked cloths that were not properly washed before drying. The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that when washing these type of cleaning cloths that you use the appropriate detergent to wash the cloths to remove the oils. We would also like to remind everyone to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays Police Department all responded.

HFD: Apartment building fire started by cooking oil soaked laundry

Fort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,300 graduates during its third annual fall commencement Friday and Saturday, Dec. 17-18.

Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in two ceremonies on Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies Saturday.

The ceremonies will begin on Friday for undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship at 8:30 a.m. Central time, followed by the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics.

The 11 a.m. ceremony will feature the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and the College of Education for undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates.

Saturday’s virtual ceremonies will begin at 8 a.m. for the Ed.S. and master’s students. The undergraduate virtual ceremony will follow at 10 a.m.

All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be broadcast on Central time and will be located on the Tiger Media Network and the FHSU Facebook. An individual is not required to sign up for a Facebook account to view the ceremonies.

Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Programs and Videos” tab.

Graduates of FHSU Online graduates will be treated to come-and-go receptions Friday and Saturday.

Light refreshments will be served at the in-person reception from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday in the Fort Hays Ballroom, on the second floor of the Memorial Union. It will include a faculty meet-and-greet from 1 to 2 p.m.

A virtual reception for those who cannot attend in person will run from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday via Zoom. That reception will feature a guest speaker, followed by a meet-and-greet with faculty and staff.

Those wishing to participate in either reception should RSVP <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedyiolptjVq3dZQg9RxIP9T_CgqopHCsb1x93xt36eHm-Kuw/viewform?usp=sf_link">here</a> by Friday, Dec. 10. Graduates can request faculty and staff they would like to meet within the RSVP form.&nbsp;

Masks are not required for the in-person ceremonies, but they will be available at each door, along with sanitizer.

Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:45 a.m. Graduates will check in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduates will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only,” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled guest door entrance (located at both gates).

Students are asked to wear their regalia into GMC. Graduates may make arrangements to pick up their regalia prior to Dec. 17 at the Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union by emailing <a href="mailto:victore_co@fhsu.edu">victore_co@fhsu.edu</a> to arrange a pickup time. Regalia will also be available before Friday’s ceremony at the Robbins Center (directly north of the GMC parking lot) from 7 to 11 a.m.

Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of Gross Coliseum. Guests will be seated in the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating for persons with mobility impairment and patrons in wheelchairs are available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the disability seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area, and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and southwest corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.

An interpreter for those who are hearing impaired will be located near the left side of the stage and shown within the commencement livestream video feed.

Traffic in the GMC area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to the coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In the event of inclement weather, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.

Here are a few suggestions from the University Police to help ease the congestion:

Graduates, families and friends are encouraged to sign and write a message on the <a href="https://fhsutigers.kudoboard.com/boards/hu5cJ7PZ/congrats-fhsutigers-f21">Kudoboard</a>.&nbsp; Share photos and messages on Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook by using the hashtag #tigergrad.

The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy-pTViuiXfMeJilvmltyrg">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy-pTViuiXfMeJilvmltyrg</a> and the Fort Hays State Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate">https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate</a>.

The commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/commencement/">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638910477297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,300 graduates during its third annual fall commencement Friday and Saturday, Dec. 17-18.Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in two ceremonies on Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies Saturday.The ceremonies will begin on Friday for undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship at 8:30 a.m. Central time, followed by the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics.The 11 a.m. ceremony will feature the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and the College of Education for undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates.Saturday’s virtual ceremonies will begin at 8 a.m. for the Ed.S. and master’s students. The undergraduate virtual ceremony will follow at 10 a.m.All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be broadcast on Central time and will be located on the Tiger Media Network and the FHSU Facebook. An individual is not required to sign up for a Facebook account to view the ceremonies.Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Programs and Videos” tab.Graduates of FHSU Online graduates will be treated to come-and-go receptions Friday and Saturday.Light refreshments will be served at the in-person reception from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday in the Fort Hays Ballroom, on the second floor of the Memorial Union. It will include a faculty meet-and-greet from 1 to 2 p.m.A virtual reception for those who cannot attend in person will run from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday via Zoom. That reception will feature a guest speaker, followed by a meet-and-greet with faculty and staff.Those wishing to participate in either reception should RSVP <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedyiolptjVq3dZQg9RxIP9T_CgqopHCsb1x93xt36eHm-Kuw/viewform?usp=sf_link">here</a> by Friday, Dec. 10. Graduates can request faculty and staff they would like to meet within the RSVP form.&nbsp;Masks are not required for the in-person ceremonies, but they will be available at each door, along with sanitizer.Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:45 a.m. Graduates will check in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduates will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only,” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled guest door entrance (located at both gates).Students are asked to wear their regalia into GMC. Graduates may make arrangements to pick up their regalia prior to Dec. 17 at the Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union by emailing <a href="mailto:victore_co@fhsu.edu">victore_co@fhsu.edu</a> to arrange a pickup time. Regalia will also be available before Friday’s ceremony at the Robbins Center (directly north of the GMC parking lot) from 7 to 11 a.m.Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of Gross Coliseum. Guests will be seated in the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating for persons with mobility impairment and patrons in wheelchairs are available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the disability seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area, and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and southwest corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.An interpreter for those who are hearing impaired will be located near the left side of the stage and shown within the commencement livestream video feed.Traffic in the GMC area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to the coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In the event of inclement weather, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.Here are a few suggestions from the University Police to help ease the congestion:<ul>
 <li>Guests arriving for the second ceremony are encouraged to arrive no more than 15 to 30 minutes before 10 a.m. Arriving too early will result in guests being forced to park further away or face departing traffic from the first ceremony. Delaying arrival will also allow time for departing guests from the first ceremony to clear the area in preparation for the second ceremony.</li><li>Graduates driving themselves are encouraged to arrive early and park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to GMC. This will better ensure they avoid traffic congestion, get a parking spot, and arrive on time for their ceremony. Shuttles will be available both days before and after both ceremonies with the drop-off station at Gate 3.</li><li>Faculty and staff attending are also encouraged to park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to the ceremonies.</li><li>All guests are encouraged to carpool when possible. Fewer cars will ease traffic congestion and increase the amount of parking at GMC.</li><li>VIP parking is available on the west side of GMC, with handicapped parking on the east side.</li>
 </ul>Graduates, families and friends are encouraged to sign and write a message on the <a href="https://fhsutigers.kudoboard.com/boards/hu5cJ7PZ/congrats-fhsutigers-f21">Kudoboard</a>.&nbsp; Share photos and messages on Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook by using the hashtag #tigergrad.The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy-pTViuiXfMeJilvmltyrg">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy-pTViuiXfMeJilvmltyrg</a> and the Fort Hays State Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate">https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate</a>.The commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/commencement/">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

1,300 will graduate FHSU during third annual fall commencement

Local Boy Scouts decorated the trees outside the Hays Public Library Saturday with ornaments handmade by local youth. 

The project is in cooperation with the Gemini Jr. 4-Hers.

Gemini Jr.4-Hers invite all youth in the county to participate with ornaments on the trees during the holiday season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638895206061.jpeg" alt="Submitted photo " />
 <figcaption>Submitted photo </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638895149866.jpeg" alt="Submitted photo" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638895233017.jpeg" alt="Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638895259420.jpeg" alt="Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Local Boy Scouts decorated the trees outside the Hays Public Library Saturday with ornaments handmade by local youth. The project is in cooperation with the Gemini Jr. 4-Hers.Gemini Jr.4-Hers invite all youth in the county to participate with ornaments on the trees during the holiday season.

Boy Scouts decorate trees at Hays library

BUNKER HILL — The annual PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest is now underway. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/pbs-kids-writers-contest/" target="_blank">PBS KIDS Writers Contest</a>&nbsp;is designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning.&nbsp; The contest&nbsp;empowers children in grades K-3 to celebrate creativity and build literacy skills by writing and illustrating their very own stories.&nbsp;

“Smoky Hills PBS is committed to helping children build valuable literacy skills through fun, hands-on opportunities to express their creativity and explore their imagination,” said Haley Gagnon,&nbsp;Special Events Coordinator of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “The PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest is a great way for children to use their imaginations by writing their own story and illustrating their own story.&nbsp; It’s amazing to see the ideas these young children come up with.”

Starting now, children in central and western Kansas can submit their entries to the Smoky Hills PBS KIDS Writers Contest by mailing their original story, along with an entry form, to Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; SHPBS will select local winners and award prizes and trophies in the spring of 2022.&nbsp; Additionally, local winners will be highlighted on&nbsp;<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;and their stories will be featured in a special presentation of contest winners.&nbsp; This special presentation of winners will be shown on air and online.&nbsp;&nbsp;The deadline to submit stories is March 4.

For more information on entry rules and contest resources, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.

Thank you to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.equitybank.com/">Equity Bank</a>&nbsp;for making this year's 2022 PBS KIDS Writers Contest possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUNKER HILL — The annual PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest is now underway. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/pbs-kids-writers-contest/" target="_blank">PBS KIDS Writers Contest</a>&nbsp;is designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning.&nbsp; The contest&nbsp;empowers children in grades K-3 to celebrate creativity and build literacy skills by writing and illustrating their very own stories.&nbsp;“Smoky Hills PBS is committed to helping children build valuable literacy skills through fun, hands-on opportunities to express their creativity and explore their imagination,” said Haley Gagnon,&nbsp;Special Events Coordinator of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “The PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest is a great way for children to use their imaginations by writing their own story and illustrating their own story.&nbsp; It’s amazing to see the ideas these young children come up with.”How the Contest WorksStarting now, children in central and western Kansas can submit their entries to the Smoky Hills PBS KIDS Writers Contest by mailing their original story, along with an entry form, to Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; SHPBS will select local winners and award prizes and trophies in the spring of 2022.&nbsp; Additionally, local winners will be highlighted on&nbsp;<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;and their stories will be featured in a special presentation of contest winners.&nbsp; This special presentation of winners will be shown on air and online.&nbsp;&nbsp;The deadline to submit stories is March 4.For more information on entry rules and contest resources, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.Thank you to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.equitybank.com/">Equity Bank</a>&nbsp;for making this year's 2022 PBS KIDS Writers Contest possible.— Submitted

Smoky Hills PBS announces annual PBS KIDS Writers Contest

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;

HAYS HIGH FOOTBALL 2021: A record-setting Indian season

By U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran R-Kan. In the summer of 1945, a worried Bina Dole in Russell, Kansas, called my grandma, who with my grandpa lived in rural Russell County, searching for news about her son. My dad, an Army sergeant, was also serving in Italy, and Bina shared over their party line she hoped my dad could learn more about Bob, who was gravely wounded.

Ray, my dad, on leave began the search to find Bob, but discovered he had been evacuated for medical treatment. Those two mothers, anxious for the safety of their children half a world away, offered comfort to each other and worked together to try and find news of 2nd Lieutenant Dole. They demonstrated the care and concern often found in small towns across Kansas, and it was the care and character of the people in Russell that shaped Bob Dole into the American hero and exemplary statesman we all knew.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

I am honored to serve in the “Dole seat” in the U.S. Senate and sit on the Senate floor in the “Dole desk” where I see his name carved into the desk drawer.

In small towns like Russell, there are differences of opinions, there are Republicans and Democrats and there are people who go to this church or that church. But when you’re in a small town, you have no choice but to get along, solve problems and work together.&nbsp;

As a young man, those values led Bob to swear an oath to protect and defend our country during World War II. On a battlefield in Italy, his life almost came to an end.&nbsp;

The injuries were horrific, tremendous and permanent. But his indomitable spirit helped him survive and endure the long road to recovery. And it was the people of Russell who collected donations in a cigar box on the same counter he worked behind as a soda jerk in high school to help make sure Bob’s medical expenses would be paid for. His wounds left him with a nearly paralyzed right arm, but Bob used his injuries to deepen his caring, not for himself, but for others.&nbsp;

He held an unmatched patriotism borne out of wartime sacrifice that marked every day of his life. Yet rather than ask for help, he offered it.

Sen. Dole can credit his view of life to his upbringing in a small Kansas town. He reflected, “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 is wrong.”

Even after Sen. Dole became a household name across the country, he always returned back to his hometown to gain wisdom and begin each new chapter of his life.

"I think Bob can come here and get tranquility and strength," his sister, Gloria Nelson, said of Russell.

Following his injury during WWII, he returned to Russell to find strength and healing for his badly maimed body. After receiving the Vice Presidential nomination and amid the highs and lows of three Presidential campaigns, Russell always provided him a solid and steady place to land. Following the death of his brother, Kenny, in 1993, he returned to Russell to say goodbye. In 1996, members of his hometown gathered with Sen. Dole to celebrate his birthday. Following his loss to President Clinton that year, the town welcomed him again. He was a national and world leader, but he would always be a boy from Russell, a son of the Kansas plains.&nbsp;

Russell Townsley, the former publisher of the Russell Daily News, wrote regarding Sen. Dole’s plan to make his announcement to run for president in 1987 from a stage in Russell, “Skeptics ask what can Bob Dole – or Russell – hope to gain from this public show and professionally staged rally. And this is where the skeptics find themselves travelling blind. There’s no need to look for ulterior motives, for there are none. Dole and his town gain from each other. While one draws on unseen reserves that have nurtured him from childhood, the other grows strong from the aura reflected from the image of leadership and stature borne by the other.”

During his Vice Presidential run, Sen. Dole said, “I want to re-emphasize: If I’ve done anything it’s because of people I’ve known up and down Main Street. And I can recall the time when I needed help, the people of Russell helped.” That same cigar box that was used to collect donations to pay for Bob’s medical expenses after WWII was again given to Sen. Dole when he announced his campaign for president in 1996. Each time, more and more Kansans supported their hero.&nbsp;

To the people of Russell and to the people across Kansas, thank you for the manner in which you have shaped, treated and respected a man worthy of our admiration. Sadly, we say goodbye to one of our own.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638983174129.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran R-Kan. In the summer of 1945, a worried Bina Dole in Russell, Kansas, called my grandma, who with my grandpa lived in rural Russell County, searching for news about her son. My dad, an Army sergeant, was also serving in Italy, and Bina shared over their party line she hoped my dad could learn more about Bob, who was gravely wounded.Ray, my dad, on leave began the search to find Bob, but discovered he had been evacuated for medical treatment. Those two mothers, anxious for the safety of their children half a world away, offered comfort to each other and worked together to try and find news of 2nd Lieutenant Dole. They demonstrated the care and concern often found in small towns across Kansas, and it was the care and character of the people in Russell that shaped Bob Dole into the American hero and exemplary statesman we all knew.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>I am honored to serve in the “Dole seat” in the U.S. Senate and sit on the Senate floor in the “Dole desk” where I see his name carved into the desk drawer.In small towns like Russell, there are differences of opinions, there are Republicans and Democrats and there are people who go to this church or that church. But when you’re in a small town, you have no choice but to get along, solve problems and work together.&nbsp;As a young man, those values led Bob to swear an oath to protect and defend our country during World War II. On a battlefield in Italy, his life almost came to an end.&nbsp;The injuries were horrific, tremendous and permanent. But his indomitable spirit helped him survive and endure the long road to recovery. And it was the people of Russell who collected donations in a cigar box on the same counter he worked behind as a soda jerk in high school to help make sure Bob’s medical expenses would be paid for. His wounds left him with a nearly paralyzed right arm, but Bob used his injuries to deepen his caring, not for himself, but for others.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618357296698.jpeg" alt="Moran" />
 <figcaption>Moran</figcaption>
 </figure>He held an unmatched patriotism borne out of wartime sacrifice that marked every day of his life. Yet rather than ask for help, he offered it.Sen. Dole can credit his view of life to his upbringing in a small Kansas town. He reflected, “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 is wrong.”Even after Sen. Dole became a household name across the country, he always returned back to his hometown to gain wisdom and begin each new chapter of his life."I think Bob can come here and get tranquility and strength," his sister, Gloria Nelson, said of Russell.Following his injury during WWII, he returned to Russell to find strength and healing for his badly maimed body. After receiving the Vice Presidential nomination and amid the highs and lows of three Presidential campaigns, Russell always provided him a solid and steady place to land. Following the death of his brother, Kenny, in 1993, he returned to Russell to say goodbye. In 1996, members of his hometown gathered with Sen. Dole to celebrate his birthday. Following his loss to President Clinton that year, the town welcomed him again. He was a national and world leader, but he would always be a boy from Russell, a son of the Kansas plains.&nbsp;Russell Townsley, the former publisher of the Russell Daily News, wrote regarding Sen. Dole’s plan to make his announcement to run for president in 1987 from a stage in Russell, “Skeptics ask what can Bob Dole – or Russell – hope to gain from this public show and professionally staged rally. And this is where the skeptics find themselves travelling blind. There’s no need to look for ulterior motives, for there are none. Dole and his town gain from each other. While one draws on unseen reserves that have nurtured him from childhood, the other grows strong from the aura reflected from the image of leadership and stature borne by the other.”During his Vice Presidential run, Sen. Dole said, “I want to re-emphasize: If I’ve done anything it’s because of people I’ve known up and down Main Street. And I can recall the time when I needed help, the people of Russell helped.” That same cigar box that was used to collect donations to pay for Bob’s medical expenses after WWII was again given to Sen. Dole when he announced his campaign for president in 1996. Each time, more and more Kansans supported their hero.&nbsp;To the people of Russell and to the people across Kansas, thank you for the manner in which you have shaped, treated and respected a man worthy of our admiration. Sadly, we say goodbye to one of our own.

MORAN: The people of Russell, Kansas, helped shape Bob Dole

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

There are no silver bullets to solve the state's housing issues, according to presenters at a meeting&nbsp;Tuesday in Hays on the state's latest housing survey.

The complex problem is going to take effort from state, local and private partners.

Amy Haase and Charlie Cowell of RDG Planning &amp; Design were on hand to highlight survey findings as well as strategies that could be used to deal with issues that emerged in the statewide survey.

Although Ellis County has a lower median age than many of the surrounding northwest Kansas counties, likely because of the college, the survey and accompanying listening tours noted a need for more accessible housing so people can age in place.

Almost all counties in northwest Kansas have had in an increase in the number of residents who are 55 years old or older since 2010.

The survey found many Kansas communities, both urban and rural, are dealing with aging housing stock. Most of the housing stock in Kansas was built before 1960.

However, Ellis County's stock tended to be newer than many of the surrounding northwest Kansas counties.

The survey found the age of the housing stock correlated with the condition of the houses, with older homes generally being in worse condition than newer homes, Cowell said.

Depressed values in many communities, but not Ellis County

Housing values in Ellis County were categorized as strong compared to other counties in the region and across the state. In rural counties especially, housing tended to be undervalued, Cowell said. New housing can't to be built for what it can be sold for in the market, he said.

"That can lead to issues with financing or with a developer even doing a project," he said.

The survey considered the cost burden of housing. A person or family is considered cost burdened for housing if they spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing.

Because a lag in the release of census data, information on income and inflation had to be used from 2019.

Based on the old data, the number of renters who are cost burdened by housing costs has increased since 2010. The percentage of cost burdened renters is also higher than home owners.

"I think something we heard in every single listening session is there's no housing," Cowell said. "There's nothing on the market. We need homes in every single price point."

Families who are growing and their incomes are growing can't upgrade into larger, more expensive homes because there aren't any available. Families who wish to move into starter homes can't move out of rentals, because the growing families are stuck in their starter homes.

A look at Ellis Co. and north-central Kansas

Hays was grouped in the north-central region of the state. Issues the survey found in this region included:

• Retirees and remote workers expressed interest in moving to the area. • The housing was of mixed quality due to age. • There was a desire for greater knowledge sharing on housing. • There was a need for a greater variety of housing. • There was a need for rehabilitation or demolition of older houses or housing units.

"A need for greater housing variety probably pertains to all of our regions, but we put it on here because it was expressed quite a lot," Cowell said. "This pertains in this region in particular to employers trying to hire employees.

"They have someone on board. They come to look for a house. They can't find anything that fits what they need. They end up declining the job."

The No. 1 response to the question "What do you think would decrease the cost of housing in your county?" was housing rehab.

The northwest region had most of the same housing issues as the north-central region. In the northwest region, grants or low-interest loans to housing developers was the top solution listed by survey respondents to decrease housing costs.

Amy Haase of RDG then addressed statewide housing goals. These included: • Extend housing security • Address building trades labor shortage • Extend existing human capital resources

She said the state needs to make sure it has housing for every stage of life — from the 20-year-old who is just entering the housing market for the first time, to the family who wants to move up, to the empty nester who would like to downsize to something low maintenance.

The state has seen an increase in the number of low-income housing units that used tax credits for construction that are asking to leave the program early. Fewer new units are also being built. Haase said the state needs to concentrate on keeping as many of those units available for low-income families. 

In order to get new housing stock on the market, the state needs to train and retain more skilled workers in the building trades. This could include older, experienced workers sponsoring inexperienced workers through their training or increasing funding to community college or technical college trade programs.

"One of the things we heard in every single community, it didn't matter if it was Kansas City or Russell, Kansas," Haase said, "we were hearing we don't have enough people to actually build homes. We don't have people to swing hammers and install toilets."

Many workers who also staff low-income housing programs are nearing retirement age. A knowledge base will also be lost there if new workers are not found and trained at those agencies, Haase said.

As the state moves froward from this report, Haase outlined a number of statewide and local strategies that could address housing needs.

• The state could increase funding to its moderate-income housing program, as each year far more money is requested than allocated. • It could expand business incentive programs to housing developers. • Rent-to-own programs can help households build equity. • Voters can fund bond programs to pay for infrastructure or communities can support developments through RHIDs. • State tax credits may be needed to fill gaps for low-income housing developments. • Landlords need to be encouraged to accept Section 8 vouchers. • Tax credits could be offered to cover gaps between building a new home or apartment complex and the selling price or market rent. • Funding could be increased to energy efficiency programs to make living in older homes more affordable. • Vacancy rates could be addressed through housing rehabilitation or demolition of blight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638999936318.jpeg" alt="Charlie Cowell, partner RDG Planning &amp; Design, discusses a statewide housing survey in Hays on Tuesday. " />
 <figcaption>Charlie Cowell, partner RDG Planning &amp; Design, discusses a statewide housing survey in Hays on Tuesday. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThere are no silver bullets to solve the state's housing issues, according to presenters at a meeting&nbsp;Tuesday in Hays on the state's latest housing survey.The complex problem is going to take effort from state, local and private partners. Amy Haase and Charlie Cowell of RDG Planning &amp; Design were on hand to highlight survey findings as well as strategies that could be used to deal with issues that emerged in the statewide survey.<h2>Aging populations and housing stock</h2>Although Ellis County has a lower median age than many of the surrounding northwest Kansas counties, likely because of the college, the survey and accompanying listening tours noted a need for more accessible housing so people can age in place.Almost all counties in northwest Kansas have had in an increase in the number of residents who are 55 years old or older since 2010. The survey found many Kansas communities, both urban and rural, are dealing with aging housing stock. Most of the housing stock in Kansas was built before 1960.However, Ellis County's stock tended to be newer than many of the surrounding northwest Kansas counties.The survey found the age of the housing stock correlated with the condition of the houses, with older homes generally being in worse condition than newer homes, Cowell said.<h2>Depressed values in many communities, but not Ellis County </h2>Housing values in Ellis County were categorized as strong compared to other counties in the region and across the state. In rural counties especially, housing tended to be undervalued, Cowell said. New housing can't to be built for what it can be sold for in the market, he said."That can lead to issues with financing or with a developer even doing a project," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639000144441.jpeg" alt="Kansas Treasurer Lynn Rogers discusses the need to bring housing issues to the Legislature during a housing meeting in Hays on Tuesday. Rogers worked on the state housing issue while he was lieutenant governor. " />
 <figcaption>Kansas Treasurer Lynn Rogers discusses the need to bring housing issues to the Legislature during a housing meeting in Hays on Tuesday. Rogers worked on the state housing issue while he was lieutenant governor. </figcaption>
 </figure>The survey considered the cost burden of housing. A person or family is considered cost burdened for housing if they spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing.Because a lag in the release of census data, information on income and inflation had to be used from 2019. Based on the old data, the number of renters who are cost burdened by housing costs has increased since 2010. The percentage of cost burdened renters is also higher than home owners."I think something we heard in every single listening session is there's no housing," Cowell said. "There's nothing on the market. We need homes in every single price point."Families who are growing and their incomes are growing can't upgrade into larger, more expensive homes because there aren't any available. Families who wish to move into starter homes can't move out of rentals, because the growing families are stuck in their starter homes.<h2>A look at Ellis Co. and north-central Kansas</h2>Hays was grouped in the north-central region of the state. Issues the survey found in this region included:• Retirees and remote workers expressed interest in moving to the area. • The housing was of mixed quality due to age. • There was a desire for greater knowledge sharing on housing. • There was a need for a greater variety of housing. • There was a need for rehabilitation or demolition of older houses or housing units."A need for greater housing variety probably pertains to all of our regions, but we put it on here because it was expressed quite a lot," Cowell said. "This pertains in this region in particular to employers trying to hire employees."They have someone on board. They come to look for a house. They can't find anything that fits what they need. They end up declining the job."The No. 1 response to the question "What do you think would decrease the cost of housing in your county?" was housing rehab.The northwest region had most of the same housing issues as the north-central region. In the northwest region, grants or low-interest loans to housing developers was the top solution listed by survey respondents to decrease housing costs.<h2>Housing goals and strategies</h2>Amy Haase of RDG then addressed statewide housing goals. These included: • Extend housing security • Address building trades labor shortage • Extend existing human capital resourcesShe said the state needs to make sure it has housing for every stage of life — from the 20-year-old who is just entering the housing market for the first time, to the family who wants to move up, to the empty nester who would like to downsize to something low maintenance.The state has seen an increase in the number of low-income housing units that used tax credits for construction that are asking to leave the program early. Fewer new units are also being built. Haase said the state needs to concentrate on keeping as many of those units available for low-income families. In order to get new housing stock on the market, the state needs to train and retain more skilled workers in the building trades. This could include older, experienced workers sponsoring inexperienced workers through their training or increasing funding to community college or technical college trade programs."One of the things we heard in every single community, it didn't matter if it was Kansas City or Russell, Kansas," Haase said, "we were hearing we don't have enough people to actually build homes. We don't have people to swing hammers and install toilets." Many workers who also staff low-income housing programs are nearing retirement age. A knowledge base will also be lost there if new workers are not found and trained at those agencies, Haase said. As the state moves froward from this report, Haase outlined a number of statewide and local strategies that could address housing needs. • The state could increase funding to its moderate-income housing program, as each year far more money is requested than allocated. • It could expand business incentive programs to housing developers. • Rent-to-own programs can help households build equity. • Voters can fund bond programs to pay for infrastructure or communities can support developments through RHIDs. • State tax credits may be needed to fill gaps for low-income housing developments. • Landlords need to be encouraged to accept Section 8 vouchers. • Tax credits could be offered to cover gaps between building a new home or apartment complex and the selling price or market rent. • Funding could be increased to energy efficiency programs to make living in older homes more affordable. • Vacancy rates could be addressed through housing rehabilitation or demolition of blight.

State housing survey: State needs to add housing stock at all levels

A cold front moving into western Kansas on Friday will result in cold and blustery conditions across the area, the National Weather Service in Dodge City said.&nbsp;

With a Thursday high of 60 projected on Thursday, the high temperature Friday is only expected to get to 43 degrees.

Winds will pick up through the day Friday, with a northwest wind of 19 to 24 mph forecasts, as well as gusts up to 45 mph. The wind will calm somewhat heading into Saturday, dropping to 10 to 14 mph.

The Friday night low is forecast at 22 degrees.

Skies will remain clear through the weekend, the NWS said, with projected highs Sunday and Monday in the mid-50s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639062787644.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A cold front moving into western Kansas on Friday will result in cold and blustery conditions across the area, the National Weather Service in Dodge City said.&nbsp;With a Thursday high of 60 projected on Thursday, the high temperature Friday is only expected to get to 43 degrees.Winds will pick up through the day Friday, with a northwest wind of 19 to 24 mph forecasts, as well as gusts up to 45 mph. The wind will calm somewhat heading into Saturday, dropping to 10 to 14 mph.The Friday night low is forecast at 22 degrees.Skies will remain clear through the weekend, the NWS said, with projected highs Sunday and Monday in the mid-50s.

NWS: Colder and windy to start the weekend in NW Kan.

Kansas State High School Activities Association

As a 1965 graduate, Bill Kimble is easily the most decorated athlete 
to graduate from Hoisington High School. Bill Kimble earned 12 gold 
medals from the KSHSAA State Track Meets in 1963, 1964 and 1965.  In 
each of those three years, he won the gold in the 100-yard and 220-yard 
dashes, the 180-yard hurdles, and the 880-yard relay. He also helped his
 track team win two state titles. Kimble holds the record for the 
100-yard dash with a time of 9.6 seconds (or converted to meters is 10.5
 seconds).  Bill continues to hold the state records for the 100-yard 
and 220-yard dashes.  Bill was also an accomplished football athlete and
 intended to compete for Texas when he experienced some bad luck with 
his trip and therefore returned to Kansas to participate in track and 
football at a junior college before being drafted to Vietnam.

***The
 USD 431 Hoisington Board of Education approved a motion in October to 
rename the track at HHS to “Bill Kimble Track." The Hoisington 
Invitational in April will be renamed the “Bill Kimble Invitational” 
going forward.

Charles "Chuck" Fessenden spent 43 years 
teaching, coaching and inspiring students at Northern Valley High School
 in Almena, Kansas. He served as the head football coach his entire 
career, charting 292 wins and 142 losses, the most all-time 8-player 
football coaching wins in Kansas. During his tenure, his team made the 
state championships seven times and brought home the championship crown 
in three of those games. At one time, his football program had 41 
consecutive wins. Chuck was one of the initial founders of the "Kansas 
8-Man Football Association" and the "8-Man All Star Game."&nbsp; Coach 
Fessenden was also responsible for coaching one state basketball 
championship and winning three state track championships. He was honored
 with multiple awards and recognitions over the course of four decades 
for his coaching of football, basketball, and track. The football field 
at Northern Valley has been named Fessenden Field in his honor.

Cheryl
 Gleason is synonymous with the Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) 
organization as it is built upon service and leadership. Cheryl served 
the students, coaches, sponsors, administrators, and schools of Kansas 
through her leadership as an Assistant Executive Director at the Kansas 
State High School Activities Association from 1989 until her retirement 
in 2021. Although she was the administrator for activities such as 
gymnastics, volleyball, bowling, tennis, swimming and diving and golf, 
what she will always be most remembered for are her years as the KAY 
State Director. Cheryl is the only KAY alum to have served 50 years at 
the KAY Leadership Camp. In 2012, she helped launch KAYAN, the Kansas 
Association for Youth Alumni Network, as an organization that would 
continue the beliefs and mission of the KAY organization. During her 
career, Cheryl served on numerous national committees and was recognized
 for her service with many Hall of Fame inductions.

Pam 
McComas spent 40 years in the Topeka 501 School District, instilling a 
passion for speech, debate and forensics in her students.&nbsp; She coached 
over 170 students to Nationals for 33 consecutive years, coaching five 
national champions and 15 National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) 
All-Americans.&nbsp; In 1999 she was awarded the National Coach of the Year 
by Pi Kappa Delta/Bruno E. Jacob Award and in 2016 McComas received the 
National Federation State High School Association's (NFHS) Citation 
Award for Speech, Debate and Theatre Directors.&nbsp; Her involvement with 
the KSHSAA includes serving on the Board of Directors and Executive 
Board.&nbsp; Beyond the state of Kansas, she has served the NFHS on various 
committees and has co-authored National debate topic papers, in which 
her topic,&nbsp;Water&nbsp;Resources, was selected for the 2021-2022 school year. 
Through the NSDA, McComas has received multiple Chapter Awards and other
 numerous honors.

Barry Mellen spent 34 years as a teacher
 and coach, 29 of those years at Kismet-Southwestern Heights. During his
 girls basketball coaching career, he acquired a record of 785 wins and 
178 losses, a winning percentage of .815. In 1992, his girls' basketball
 team had an undefeated season which led to a state championship. His 
teams won state championship titles twice and were runner ups seven 
times. Barry was a successful volleyball coach as well, making it to the
 state tournament seven years and a girls/boys track coach with three 
state championships. With his years of success came many recognitions 
such as "Coach of the Year" by numerous news outlets and associations 
and even a "Coach of the Decade." At the National Federation State High 
School Association (NFHS) level, Coach Mellen was awarded the "National 
Girls Coach of the Year" for District 5 in 2009. --

The 
honorees were chosen from nominations reviewed by a selection committee.
 To be eligible for the Hall of Fame, an individual must have made an 
unusually outstanding contribution in interscholastic activities, either
 as a student with exceptional talent, or as an adult working with youth
 (such as an activity coach, director or sponsor, an administrator, an 
official or a contributor). Hall of Fame inductees may no longer be 
active in the field for which they are nominated (exception: contributor
 with over 30 years of outstanding service).

Each year schools and
 communities throughout Kansas submit many nominations of individuals 
who have made tremendous contributions in the field of interscholastic 
activities. Hall of Fame information is available on the KSHSAA website 
at www.kshsaa.org. Nomination forms are available by contacting the 
KSHSAA. Any nominations to be considered for induction in 2023 must be 
submitted prior to November 1, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639061563441.jpeg" alt="Bill Kimble" />
 <figcaption>Bill Kimble</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State High School Activities AssociationAs a 1965 graduate, Bill Kimble is easily the most decorated athlete 
to graduate from Hoisington High School. Bill Kimble earned 12 gold 
medals from the KSHSAA State Track Meets in 1963, 1964 and 1965. In 
each of those three years, he won the gold in the 100-yard and 220-yard 
dashes, the 180-yard hurdles, and the 880-yard relay. He also helped his
 track team win two state titles. Kimble holds the record for the 
100-yard dash with a time of 9.6 seconds (or converted to meters is 10.5
 seconds). Bill continues to hold the state records for the 100-yard 
and 220-yard dashes. Bill was also an accomplished football athlete and
 intended to compete for Texas when he experienced some bad luck with 
his trip and therefore returned to Kansas to participate in track and 
football at a junior college before being drafted to Vietnam.***The
 USD 431 Hoisington Board of Education approved a motion in October to 
rename the track at HHS to “Bill Kimble Track." The Hoisington 
Invitational in April will be renamed the “Bill Kimble Invitational” 
going forward.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639061723739.png" alt="Charles 'Chuck' Fessenden" />
 <figcaption>Charles 'Chuck' Fessenden</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles "Chuck" Fessenden spent 43 years 
teaching, coaching and inspiring students at Northern Valley High School
 in Almena, Kansas. He served as the head football coach his entire 
career, charting 292 wins and 142 losses, the most all-time 8-player 
football coaching wins in Kansas. During his tenure, his team made the 
state championships seven times and brought home the championship crown 
in three of those games. At one time, his football program had 41 
consecutive wins. Chuck was one of the initial founders of the "Kansas 
8-Man Football Association" and the "8-Man All Star Game."&nbsp; Coach 
Fessenden was also responsible for coaching one state basketball 
championship and winning three state track championships. He was honored
 with multiple awards and recognitions over the course of four decades 
for his coaching of football, basketball, and track. The football field 
at Northern Valley has been named Fessenden Field in his honor. Cheryl
 Gleason is synonymous with the Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) 
organization as it is built upon service and leadership. Cheryl served 
the students, coaches, sponsors, administrators, and schools of Kansas 
through her leadership as an Assistant Executive Director at the Kansas 
State High School Activities Association from 1989 until her retirement 
in 2021. Although she was the administrator for activities such as 
gymnastics, volleyball, bowling, tennis, swimming and diving and golf, 
what she will always be most remembered for are her years as the KAY 
State Director. Cheryl is the only KAY alum to have served 50 years at 
the KAY Leadership Camp. In 2012, she helped launch KAYAN, the Kansas 
Association for Youth Alumni Network, as an organization that would 
continue the beliefs and mission of the KAY organization. During her 
career, Cheryl served on numerous national committees and was recognized
 for her service with many Hall of Fame inductions. Pam 
McComas spent 40 years in the Topeka 501 School District, instilling a 
passion for speech, debate and forensics in her students.&nbsp; She coached 
over 170 students to Nationals for 33 consecutive years, coaching five 
national champions and 15 National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) 
All-Americans.&nbsp; In 1999 she was awarded the National Coach of the Year 
by Pi Kappa Delta/Bruno E. Jacob Award and in 2016 McComas received the 
National Federation State High School Association's (NFHS) Citation 
Award for Speech, Debate and Theatre Directors.&nbsp; Her involvement with 
the KSHSAA includes serving on the Board of Directors and Executive 
Board.&nbsp; Beyond the state of Kansas, she has served the NFHS on various 
committees and has co-authored National debate topic papers, in which 
her topic,&nbsp;Water&nbsp;Resources, was selected for the 2021-2022 school year. 
Through the NSDA, McComas has received multiple Chapter Awards and other
 numerous honors. Barry Mellen spent 34 years as a teacher
 and coach, 29 of those years at Kismet-Southwestern Heights. During his
 girls basketball coaching career, he acquired a record of 785 wins and 
178 losses, a winning percentage of .815. In 1992, his girls' basketball
 team had an undefeated season which led to a state championship. His 
teams won state championship titles twice and were runner ups seven 
times. Barry was a successful volleyball coach as well, making it to the
 state tournament seven years and a girls/boys track coach with three 
state championships. With his years of success came many recognitions 
such as "Coach of the Year" by numerous news outlets and associations 
and even a "Coach of the Decade." At the National Federation State High 
School Association (NFHS) level, Coach Mellen was awarded the "National 
Girls Coach of the Year" for District 5 in 2009. --The 
honorees were chosen from nominations reviewed by a selection committee.
 To be eligible for the Hall of Fame, an individual must have made an 
unusually outstanding contribution in interscholastic activities, either
 as a student with exceptional talent, or as an adult working with youth
 (such as an activity coach, director or sponsor, an administrator, an 
official or a contributor). Hall of Fame inductees may no longer be 
active in the field for which they are nominated (exception: contributor
 with over 30 years of outstanding service).Each year schools and
 communities throughout Kansas submit many nominations of individuals 
who have made tremendous contributions in the field of interscholastic 
activities. Hall of Fame information is available on the KSHSAA website 
at www.kshsaa.org. Nomination forms are available by contacting the 
KSHSAA. Any nominations to be considered for induction in 2023 must be 
submitted prior to November 1, 2022.

Almena coach, Hoisington track star named to KSHSAA Hall of Fame

VICTORIA — Last year, because of COVID-19, the annual “Christmas Cathedral Concert” was canceled. But this year it is back. The traditional favorite will take place at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria.

Director Terry Crull said the free concert would feature the Fort Hays Singers, Fort Hays State University Concert Choir, and Smoky Hill Chorale, all directed by Crull and accompanied by pianist Pam McGowne.

Also featured will be the Hays High School Chamber Singers, under the direction of Alex Underwood; the Sterling High School Choir, under the direction of Clark Comley; and the FHSU Brass Ensemble, conducted by Peter Lillpopp.

News releaseVICTORIA — Last year, because of COVID-19, the annual “Christmas Cathedral Concert” was canceled. But this year it is back. The traditional favorite will take place at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria.Director Terry Crull said the free concert would feature the Fort Hays Singers, Fort Hays State University Concert Choir, and Smoky Hill Chorale, all directed by Crull and accompanied by pianist Pam McGowne.Also featured will be the Hays High School Chamber Singers, under the direction of Alex Underwood; the Sterling High School Choir, under the direction of Clark Comley; and the FHSU Brass Ensemble, conducted by Peter Lillpopp.Soloists will include Tom Meagher on organ, Kay Werth on oboe, Bradley Dawson on trumpet, Renetta Dawson on French horn, and vocalist Ivalah Allen.Crull said the audience would be invited to join the performers on three favorite Christmas carols. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early.