By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The 1200 block of Felten Drive in Hays is adorned with the Stars and Stripes proudly waving in almost every yard.

The work is thanks to one man — Jerry Jacobs, a retired veteran whose hobby is making flag poles.

"I just love being patriotic, and I love watching the flags fly," he said.

Jacobs, 78, was in the National Guard for six years during the 1970s and on active duty for 18 months at Fort Hood in Texas. That is where he learned to operate a lathe, which he uses in his flag pole production.

Jacobs builds every flag pole, upon request, to exacting standards.

He's built 14 poles to date, six of which are on his block, Jerry said as he rocked in a white wooden rocker on his front porch, which is adorned with all sorts of patriotic decor.

"Everyone was anxious to get a flag and show their patriotism," Kathy Jacobs, Jerry's wife, said of their neighbors.

Fencing railing from chain-link fences is used so that the pole will not bend in the strong Kansas wind. Jacobs uses a special self-designed bearing system and weight so the flags will pivot around the poles in the wind and not wrap around the poles.

Each pole is fitted with a solar light to illuminate the flag at night. In addition, he uses metal decorative pieces for the finials on tops of the poles.

Jacobs recycles all sorts of brass and other items for this purpose, including candle holders and incense burners. Each pole is also stamped with a date.

Kathy said Jerry is passionate about his projects.

"It's funny, sometimes we'll be in bed and I'm just about ready to fall asleep, and he'll say, 'Should I use that 3/4-inch screw or 7/8?' I say, 'Shut up! Go to bed! Quit thinking!' But he's always building something."

He built a gun cabinet, but Kathy uses it as a hutch for her dishes.

With the exception of the framing, Jerry, who once ran his own air-conditioning business, built the house the couple lives in today on Felten Drive.

Jacobs patriotism is not just displayed on the exterior of his home. In his downstairs man cave, he has a 1776 flag and a 48-star flag alongside a portrait of President Eisenhower.&nbsp;

Kathy said Jerry goes all out decorating for the holidays. He has painted a large collection of bowling balls in holiday motifs. For the Fourth of July, he's painted balls in red, white in blue. He painted bowling balls to look like large Christmas ornaments. He has "bunny balls" for Easter and yet another set for Halloween. Has more than 60 Christmas balls alone.&nbsp;

The porch has hooks from which to suspend the decorated bowling balls.&nbsp; Storing and hanging the decorations is no small feat. Each ball weighs about 16 pounds.

Word got around that he was decorating the bowling balls, and they just started showing up outside of his shop, Kathy said.

When asked why he likes to decorate, he said, "I just like to be different. Celebrate the occasion, you might say."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629399890493.jpeg" alt="Jerry Jacobs of Hays builds flag poles, six of which are on his block on Felten Drive." />
 <figcaption>Jerry Jacobs of Hays builds flag poles, six of which are on his block on Felten Drive.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe 1200 block of Felten Drive in Hays is adorned with the Stars and Stripes proudly waving in almost every yard.The work is thanks to one man — Jerry Jacobs, a retired veteran whose hobby is making flag poles."I just love being patriotic, and I love watching the flags fly," he said.Jacobs, 78, was in the National Guard for six years during the 1970s and on active duty for 18 months at Fort Hood in Texas. That is where he learned to operate a lathe, which he uses in his flag pole production.Jacobs builds every flag pole, upon request, to exacting standards.He's built 14 poles to date, six of which are on his block, Jerry said as he rocked in a white wooden rocker on his front porch, which is adorned with all sorts of patriotic decor."Everyone was anxious to get a flag and show their patriotism," Kathy Jacobs, Jerry's wife, said of their neighbors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629389227562.jpeg" alt="Jerry Jacobs in his shop with the metal lathe he uses to make his flag poles." />
 <figcaption>Jerry Jacobs in his shop with the metal lathe he uses to make his flag poles.</figcaption>
 </figure>Fencing railing from chain-link fences is used so that the pole will not bend in the strong Kansas wind. Jacobs uses a special self-designed bearing system and weight so the flags will pivot around the poles in the wind and not wrap around the poles.Each pole is fitted with a solar light to illuminate the flag at night. In addition, he uses metal decorative pieces for the finials on tops of the poles.Jacobs recycles all sorts of brass and other items for this purpose, including candle holders and incense burners. Each pole is also stamped with a date.Kathy said Jerry is passionate about his projects."It's funny, sometimes we'll be in bed and I'm just about ready to fall asleep, and he'll say, 'Should I use that 3/4-inch screw or 7/8?' I say, 'Shut up! Go to bed! Quit thinking!' But he's always building something."He built a gun cabinet, but Kathy uses it as a hutch for her dishes.With the exception of the framing, Jerry, who once ran his own air-conditioning business, built the house the couple lives in today on Felten Drive.Jacobs patriotism is not just displayed on the exterior of his home. In his downstairs man cave, he has a 1776 flag and a 48-star flag alongside a portrait of President Eisenhower.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629389605675.jpeg" alt="Jerry Jacobs uses recycled metal items for the finials on his flag poles. This flag pole uses an incense burner and a piece of a bicycle bell. Each pole is also illuminated with a solar light." />
 <figcaption>Jerry Jacobs uses recycled metal items for the finials on his flag poles. This flag pole uses an incense burner and a piece of a bicycle bell. Each pole is also illuminated with a solar light.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kathy said Jerry goes all out decorating for the holidays. He has painted a large collection of bowling balls in holiday motifs. For the Fourth of July, he's painted balls in red, white in blue. He painted bowling balls to look like large Christmas ornaments. He has "bunny balls" for Easter and yet another set for Halloween. Has more than 60 Christmas balls alone.&nbsp;The porch has hooks from which to suspend the decorated bowling balls.&nbsp; Storing and hanging the decorations is no small feat. Each ball weighs about 16 pounds.Word got around that he was decorating the bowling balls, and they just started showing up outside of his shop, Kathy said.When asked why he likes to decorate, he said, "I just like to be different. Celebrate the occasion, you might say."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629156967894.jpeg" alt="Jerry Jacobs in his front yard on Felten Drive in Hays with one of the flag poles he manufactured.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jerry Jacobs in his front yard on Felten Drive in Hays with one of the flag poles he manufactured.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays vet builds flag poles to share love of country with neighbors

One of the largest and fastest-growing discount retailers has signed a deal that would see a location in Hays in 2022.

Ollie's Bargain Outlet Hays signed an agreement to lease space in the Big Creek Crossing shopping center, 2918 Vine, taking over the anchor store location on the north side of the facility that was home to Gordman's.

"They have a cult-like following, and they have really started an aggressive expansion," said Big Creek Crossing property manager James Younger. "They looked at the Hays market and they liked the Hays market."

Based on their interest, negotiations began and a deal has been signed.

"They are coming in the first quarter of 2022," Younger said. "There is going to be some renovation that is going to be taking place on the space."

"I'm pretty confident that it is going to fit in well," said Branson Hoffman, Big Creek Crossing marketing director. "You look at Stage. You look at Gordman's that used to be in there. You are looking at discounted retail. ...I think Ollie's is going to be the same thing."

"It's going to be exciting," Younger said. "Obviously, we have that construction period ... but it will be good. It will be opening with an additional down in Garden City Plaza in Garden City."

The openings in Hays and Garden City are only a small part of the company's plans, Hoffman said.

"These guys, I think they are careful. They are not going to just throw up left and right, but they are aggressive," he said. "They are popping up all over."

Ollie's stores typically feature simple layouts in a warehouse-style setting.

"That generates to consumer savings," Younger said.&nbsp;

The stores operate by buying discounted bulk items from other retailers, then selling those items to consumers at a discounted rate.

"The concept works," Hoffman said. "Look at Marshall's, Ross and all these other stores. The concept works."

He said the variety of merchandise also changes frequently.

"I think this will be an addition to the community and to this mall, specifically because when people want to go walk around and meander and just see what is available, this is it," Branson said. "This is where you go."

"It's a great store to look around and get things that you didn't even know you needed," Hoffman said.

With Ollie's, Younger said the shopping center is again nearly full, but like other retailers that have moved into the shopping center in recent years, Ollie's will be an exterior-only entrance.

And most stores that have left the center were due to corporate bankruptcies rather than local decisions.

"We're getting pretty low on available space," Younger said.

<a href="https://www.ollies.us/home.html">For more about Olli's visit their website, ollies.us</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629496877324.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostOne of the largest and fastest-growing discount retailers has signed a deal that would see a location in Hays in 2022.Ollie's Bargain Outlet Hays signed an agreement to lease space in the Big Creek Crossing shopping center, 2918 Vine, taking over the anchor store location on the north side of the facility that was home to Gordman's."They have a cult-like following, and they have really started an aggressive expansion," said Big Creek Crossing property manager James Younger. "They looked at the Hays market and they liked the Hays market."Based on their interest, negotiations began and a deal has been signed."They are coming in the first quarter of 2022," Younger said. "There is going to be some renovation that is going to be taking place on the space.""I'm pretty confident that it is going to fit in well," said Branson Hoffman, Big Creek Crossing marketing director. "You look at Stage. You look at Gordman's that used to be in there. You are looking at discounted retail. ...I think Ollie's is going to be the same thing.""It's going to be exciting," Younger said. "Obviously, we have that construction period ... but it will be good. It will be opening with an additional down in Garden City Plaza in Garden City."The openings in Hays and Garden City are only a small part of the company's plans, Hoffman said."These guys, I think they are careful. They are not going to just throw up left and right, but they are aggressive," he said. "They are popping up all over."Ollie's stores typically feature simple layouts in a warehouse-style setting."That generates to consumer savings," Younger said.&nbsp;The stores operate by buying discounted bulk items from other retailers, then selling those items to consumers at a discounted rate."The concept works," Hoffman said. "Look at Marshall's, Ross and all these other stores. The concept works."He said the variety of merchandise also changes frequently."I think this will be an addition to the community and to this mall, specifically because when people want to go walk around and meander and just see what is available, this is it," Branson said. "This is where you go.""It's a great store to look around and get things that you didn't even know you needed," Hoffman said.With Ollie's, Younger said the shopping center is again nearly full, but like other retailers that have moved into the shopping center in recent years, Ollie's will be an exterior-only entrance.And most stores that have left the center were due to corporate bankruptcies rather than local decisions."We're getting pretty low on available space," Younger said.<a href="https://www.ollies.us/home.html">For more about Olli's visit their website, ollies.us</a>.

Major discount retailer to set up shop in Hays in 2022

Dr. Hendratta Ali, associate professor of geosciences, was announced this week as the 2021 President's Distinguished Scholar at Fort Hays State University.

"She has 15 peer-reviewed publications, over 50 refereed abstracts, and presented both nationally and internationally. Recently, she has secured two National Science Foundation grants that total near $400,000," said Dr. Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for academic affairs and emcee of the ceremonies at the 2021 FHSU fall convocation.

"Hendratta also mentors both undergraduate and graduate students in the field of geology, which has led to these students receiving numerous awards," said Arensdorf. "Thank you, Hendratta, for your contributions to the university, to your discipline, and the world."

The President's Distinguished Scholar Award was first conferred in 1989. Nominees for this honor are evaluated by analysis of their performance in the categories of research and creative activities, service, and instruction. Acceptable levels of performance must be demonstrated in service and instruction, with the primary focus of this award on research and creative activities.

An evaluation committee, composed of five of the most recent award winners, reviews applications, and a recommendation is forwarded to President Tisa Mason. The provost chairs the committee and is responsible for administering the award process.

Several other awards were also presented at the convocation.

Dr. April Park, associate professor of psychology, was named Faculty Member of the Year. Commerce Bank provides a $1,000 stipend for the award. The award was presented to her by Arensdorf, and Shane Smith, president of Commerce Bank.

The Faculty Member of the Year is selected from the past year's recipients of faculty awards for teaching, for research and scholarly activity, and for service.

"April was selected as the recipient for this award because she defines excellence in scholarly activity," said Arensdorf. "April's impact on her students continues to enhance their learning experience and reflects her goal to be the best professor, researcher, mentor, and colleague possible."

Park, and Dr. Jonathan Sumrall, associate professor of geosciences, were the winners of last year's awards for research and scholarly activity.

The 2020-2021 awards for service were awarded to Dr. Sarah Broman Miller, assistant professor of teacher education, and Jacque Jacobs, program specialist in communication sciences and disorders.&nbsp;

Last year's outstanding teaching awards went to Selena Bonomelli, instructor of health and human performance, and Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice.&nbsp;

Ms. Brooke Mann, instructor of psychology, was named the John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor.

This award recognizes faculty members for their commitment, time, and energy in promoting undergraduate research. All current faculty and unclassified staff members at levels comparable to academic faculty are eligible. The winner's home department is awarded $500 of budget funding to benefit the recipient. The Office of the Provost, the Undergraduate Research Environment Committee, and the Office of Scholarships and Sponsored Projects sponsors the award.

Arensdorf introduced Mann during the convocation event, "Brooke has shown outstanding mentorship by supporting her students throughout the research process. She is committed to the growth and learning of these individuals by making it a priority to oversee and assist in preparing their materials for presentations and conferences. She is open to student ideas and broadening her own research interests to enhance the experience for all of our students."

The "Closing the Loop" Departmental Assessment Award went to the Department of Leadership Studies. The department receives $2,000, provided by Voya Financial, in additional operating budget for the year. This award recognizes a department that implements improvements in its degree programs.

"The department exemplifies the characteristics of using the collected data to adjust and improve student learning in each of their programs on campus, online, and in China." Arensdorf said. "Their report provided details on the improvements and adjustments made based on their prior year's assessment data. This shows clear evidence the department understands the value of assessment and continues to strive for academic excellence in their program."

The Department of Computer Science won the Advancing Assessment Award, receiving an additional $1,000 in operating budget funds, sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the Office for Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Improvement. This award recognizes departments that make advances in their program assessment procedures.

The department used comparative analysis of their assessment results at three different levels for two different delivery modes.&nbsp; This indicates the program assessment has improved to an even higher level and indicates that the department and program are well prepared to make adjustments for improved student learning and academic success.

President Tisa Mason presented the President's Award, Fort Hays State University's highest honor, to the Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies department. Given by the president to recognize substantial contributions to the university through professional and personal achievements, this award is not given often and had not been awarded since 2014.&nbsp;

Mason described the contributions of the FHSU colleagues in TILT, “In just three short weeks, TILT helped overhaul the entire China program to deliver online learning when the pandemic shut down the 2020 spring semester. During the pandemic, the team worked tirelessly to create and update the website to provide resources for students and faculty. They oversaw a significant transition to Blackboard, the university's online student learning system, during the midst of this. They also recognized a need for online student connection and oversaw a Tiger2Tiger student support program. They also continued to meet with faculty to develop new courses for programs, incorporated new ideas from the pandemic into the fall professional development day, and are constantly scanning and implementing cutting-edge technologies to improve teaching and learning at Fort Hays State University.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629567373615.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsDr. Hendratta Ali, associate professor of geosciences, was announced this week as the 2021 President's Distinguished Scholar at Fort Hays State University."She has 15 peer-reviewed publications, over 50 refereed abstracts, and presented both nationally and internationally. Recently, she has secured two National Science Foundation grants that total near $400,000," said Dr. Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for academic affairs and emcee of the ceremonies at the 2021 FHSU fall convocation."Hendratta also mentors both undergraduate and graduate students in the field of geology, which has led to these students receiving numerous awards," said Arensdorf. "Thank you, Hendratta, for your contributions to the university, to your discipline, and the world."The President's Distinguished Scholar Award was first conferred in 1989. Nominees for this honor are evaluated by analysis of their performance in the categories of research and creative activities, service, and instruction. Acceptable levels of performance must be demonstrated in service and instruction, with the primary focus of this award on research and creative activities.An evaluation committee, composed of five of the most recent award winners, reviews applications, and a recommendation is forwarded to President Tisa Mason. The provost chairs the committee and is responsible for administering the award process.Several other awards were also presented at the convocation.Dr. April Park, associate professor of psychology, was named Faculty Member of the Year. Commerce Bank provides a $1,000 stipend for the award. The award was presented to her by Arensdorf, and Shane Smith, president of Commerce Bank.The Faculty Member of the Year is selected from the past year's recipients of faculty awards for teaching, for research and scholarly activity, and for service."April was selected as the recipient for this award because she defines excellence in scholarly activity," said Arensdorf. "April's impact on her students continues to enhance their learning experience and reflects her goal to be the best professor, researcher, mentor, and colleague possible."Park, and Dr. Jonathan Sumrall, associate professor of geosciences, were the winners of last year's awards for research and scholarly activity.The 2020-2021 awards for service were awarded to Dr. Sarah Broman Miller, assistant professor of teacher education, and Jacque Jacobs, program specialist in communication sciences and disorders.&nbsp;Last year's outstanding teaching awards went to Selena Bonomelli, instructor of health and human performance, and Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice.&nbsp;Ms. Brooke Mann, instructor of psychology, was named the John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor.This award recognizes faculty members for their commitment, time, and energy in promoting undergraduate research. All current faculty and unclassified staff members at levels comparable to academic faculty are eligible. The winner's home department is awarded $500 of budget funding to benefit the recipient. The Office of the Provost, the Undergraduate Research Environment Committee, and the Office of Scholarships and Sponsored Projects sponsors the award.Arensdorf introduced Mann during the convocation event, "Brooke has shown outstanding mentorship by supporting her students throughout the research process. She is committed to the growth and learning of these individuals by making it a priority to oversee and assist in preparing their materials for presentations and conferences. She is open to student ideas and broadening her own research interests to enhance the experience for all of our students."The "Closing the Loop" Departmental Assessment Award went to the Department of Leadership Studies. The department receives $2,000, provided by Voya Financial, in additional operating budget for the year. This award recognizes a department that implements improvements in its degree programs."The department exemplifies the characteristics of using the collected data to adjust and improve student learning in each of their programs on campus, online, and in China." Arensdorf said. "Their report provided details on the improvements and adjustments made based on their prior year's assessment data. This shows clear evidence the department understands the value of assessment and continues to strive for academic excellence in their program."The Department of Computer Science won the Advancing Assessment Award, receiving an additional $1,000 in operating budget funds, sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the Office for Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Improvement. This award recognizes departments that make advances in their program assessment procedures.The department used comparative analysis of their assessment results at three different levels for two different delivery modes.&nbsp; This indicates the program assessment has improved to an even higher level and indicates that the department and program are well prepared to make adjustments for improved student learning and academic success.President Tisa Mason presented the President's Award, Fort Hays State University's highest honor, to the Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies department. Given by the president to recognize substantial contributions to the university through professional and personal achievements, this award is not given often and had not been awarded since 2014.&nbsp;Mason described the contributions of the FHSU colleagues in TILT, “In just three short weeks, TILT helped overhaul the entire China program to deliver online learning when the pandemic shut down the 2020 spring semester. During the pandemic, the team worked tirelessly to create and update the website to provide resources for students and faculty. They oversaw a significant transition to Blackboard, the university's online student learning system, during the midst of this. They also recognized a need for online student connection and oversaw a Tiger2Tiger student support program. They also continued to meet with faculty to develop new courses for programs, incorporated new ideas from the pandemic into the fall professional development day, and are constantly scanning and implementing cutting-edge technologies to improve teaching and learning at Fort Hays State University.”

Ali named President's Distinguished Scholar at Fort Hays State

First Call for Help of Ellis County will have an open house and ribbon cutting on Tuesday to celebrate the official completion of its First Step Housing Project, 607 E. 13th.

The open house will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the ribbon cutting ceremony at 4 p.m., said Linda Mills, First Call’s executive director. Parking is available on Montgomery Street.

The $250,000 project will provide transitional housing for up to eight individuals in need of housing for up to six months at a time. First Call is currently accepting applications for the first residents.

Those individuals must be residents of Ellis County, must pass drug and alcohol screening, must have no felony convictions for violent crimes, and must be “committed to striving for stability in future housing,” Mills said. All will be expected to hold jobs and to complete an online “financial literacy” course provided by the FDIC.

The First-Step Housing Project features four bedrooms, each with a private handicapped-accessible bathroom, and a common kitchen and laundry area.

The project, which took six years from planning to completion, is the first ever of its kind in Ellis County, Mills said. Applications are available by calling (785) 623-2800.

Donors contributing $5,000 and more include the Schmidt Foundation, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Ellis County Ministerial Alliance, Union Pacific Foundation, Ellis County Cares Fund, United Methodist Foundation, Heartland Community Foundation, Ellis County Bar Association, and two anonymous donors.&nbsp;

Mills emphasized that it was the “countless individual donors who contributed between $5 and $5,000" that helped First Call achieve its $250,000 goal.

Items still needed for the housing units are listed on the organization’s website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">www.firstcallelliscounty.com</a>, by clicking on the “Needs List” button. Donated items must be new.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629467374848.jpeg" alt="Volunter Gail Thal / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Volunter Gail Thal / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseFirst Call for Help of Ellis County will have an open house and ribbon cutting on Tuesday to celebrate the official completion of its First Step Housing Project, 607 E. 13th.The open house will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the ribbon cutting ceremony at 4 p.m., said Linda Mills, First Call’s executive director. Parking is available on Montgomery Street.The $250,000 project will provide transitional housing for up to eight individuals in need of housing for up to six months at a time. First Call is currently accepting applications for the first residents.Those individuals must be residents of Ellis County, must pass drug and alcohol screening, must have no felony convictions for violent crimes, and must be “committed to striving for stability in future housing,” Mills said. All will be expected to hold jobs and to complete an online “financial literacy” course provided by the FDIC.The First-Step Housing Project features four bedrooms, each with a private handicapped-accessible bathroom, and a common kitchen and laundry area.The project, which took six years from planning to completion, is the first ever of its kind in Ellis County, Mills said. Applications are available by calling (785) 623-2800.Donors contributing $5,000 and more include the Schmidt Foundation, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Ellis County Ministerial Alliance, Union Pacific Foundation, Ellis County Cares Fund, United Methodist Foundation, Heartland Community Foundation, Ellis County Bar Association, and two anonymous donors.&nbsp;Mills emphasized that it was the “countless individual donors who contributed between $5 and $5,000" that helped First Call achieve its $250,000 goal.Items still needed for the housing units are listed on the organization’s website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">www.firstcallelliscounty.com</a>, by clicking on the “Needs List” button. Donated items must be new.

Ribbon cutting planned for First Step Housing Project

With the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in and around Ellis County, Dr. Heather Harris, chief medical officer at HaysMed, said increasing the local vaccination rate remains the best way to curb another virus outbreak.

"The vaccine is very safe. Over 1 billion people in the world have received it, and there is no data that shows there is any major concern for safety," she said. "People are dying from COVID. They're not dying from the COVID vaccine."

With numbers increasing at a pace not seen since February, Harris said the influx of patients has put a strain on HaysMed's patient capacity. As of Friday, there were 17 COVID inpatients in the hospital — seven in the intensive care unit.

The average age of COVID inpatients since the delta variant began affecting Ellis County has dropped to age 53.

"It's younger people being affected, for the most part healthy," she said. "These are not sick people ... and they're becoming very ill."

Of the 17 patients at HaysMed on Friday, only two were vaccinated — and those patients have an underlying health condition that makes the vaccine less effective.

"We want people to be healthy. So to see younger and younger people becoming hospitalized, becoming very sick is disheartening — especially now that there's a vaccine," Harris said.

According to the Kansas Hospital Association's Aug. 18 update, 42 percent of Ellis County residents have been partially or fully vaccinated, just less than the statewide average of 43.8 percent. Several northwest Kansas counties have vaccination rates below the state average, with Sheridan County's 30 percent rate being among the lowest in the state.

Harris expected those numbers to improve.

"We're seeing a lot of people get vaccinated right now. There has been an uptick," she said.

There have been a handful of "breakthrough" COVID cases in vaccinated individuals locally but Harris said the vaccine still positively affects those patients.

"No healthy adults with healthy immune systems have been hospitalized who've had the vaccine," she said.

HaysMed assumes all COVID cases are likely caused by the more contagious delta variant, noting it takes three weeks to have test samples returned to reach that determination.

"We're no different than the rest of the country —&nbsp;95 percent of the new cases are delta," Harris said. 

The symptoms of delta have been different, she noted. 

"Very high fevers — we didn't see high fevers last time. It's very variable (for each individual), but it looks like a terrible cold, nasal congestion, headaches, cough ... shortness of breath, low on oxygen. We're starting to see ... diarrhea, which we've only seen in the last few weeks."

With allergy season also here, Harris offered advice familiar throughout the pandemic.

"If you don't feel good, stop. Don't go to work. Don't go to school. Stay home, and go get tested," she said, noting current testing offers a one-day turnaround on results. "That way, we can triage the right people and limit the spread.

"People are doing a better job this time. We're starting to see people respond quicker," she added. "Instead of not feeling good for a week and then coming in, people are coming in after a couple of days."

The influx of COVID patients has put a strain on HaysMed's ICU capacity. As of Friday morning, the hospital was not accepting out-of-county transfers.

"This has caused the hospital to be very busy with very sick people," she said. "If you have a bad car wreck ... you're not coming."

Updated 4:30 p.m. Friday to clarify quote.

Harris noted hospital stays for recent COVID inpatients have been lengthy.

"This is not a quick illness. They're being hospitalized for weeks," she said.

Vaccinations come into play with hospital capacity, as well. Noting the 15 unvaccinated COVID inpatients at HaysMed, Harris said, "if everyone would have been vaccinated, we should only have two (of those) people in the hospital right now."

With individuals as young as 12 eligible to be vaccinated, Harris said she "100 percent" believes those younger individuals should receive the shot.

"The risk of them getting sick with COVID outweighs anything the vaccine could cause. One hundred percent on the 12 and up," she said, noting a COVID diagnosis would mean missing school, school activities and other social opportunities. "It takes several weeks to recover from COVID, to quarantine. We want them to stay healthy."

She appreciated Hays USD 489 had put a plan in place that would closely monitor students, staff and teachers, as well as providing for contingencies like a mask requirement should cases spike among the school population.

"They're on it. They're really watching. They did a great job last year, so kudos to them," Harris said. "Our school nurses are working their buns off."

Students — even the youngest —&nbsp;"did amazing" with masks last school year, she said, noting that should it reach that point, she expected the same behavior from students in the future.

With a flurry of misinformation on social media, Harris quickly pointed out two myths she wanted the public to understand clearly.

"This vaccine is safe — really safe," she said, noting the speed of release of the vaccine was aided by years of prior research. "The technology they used to create the vaccine has been out for many years. Because the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/mrna.html">mRNA technology</a> was there, they were able to match it to the spike protein of this particular virus."

She also pointed out the misconception the vaccine would have an impact on fertility in women.

"It has zero effect on fertility," Harris said. "This new variant is really affecting pregnant women and newborns more than the first. The risk of someone pregnant getting sick is very high."

Another recent development has been a surge in the number of cases of the respiratory disease RSV.

Harris said doctors remain unsure if there is any connection between COVID and the RSV upswing. 

"We're perplexed because there was not a lot of RSV in the winter when we normally see it," she said. "(COVID) has changed the landscape of illness, but RSV is definitely affecting the younger kids .. and some adults."

With the return of students to Fort Hays State University and the beginning of school and school events,  Harris expected Ellis County cases to spike again — almost exactly a year from when the initial spike started.

"Rates will go up the next several weeks," she said. "There's a fix for that. It's called a vaccine."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586876732526.png" alt="Dr. Heather Harris" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Heather Harris</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post"Get a vaccine and don't get sick."With the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in and around Ellis County, Dr. Heather Harris, chief medical officer at HaysMed, said increasing the local vaccination rate remains the best way to curb another virus outbreak."The vaccine is very safe. Over 1 billion people in the world have received it, and there is no data that shows there is any major concern for safety," she said. "People are dying from COVID. They're not dying from the COVID vaccine."With numbers increasing at a pace not seen since February, Harris said the influx of patients has put a strain on HaysMed's patient capacity. As of Friday, there were 17 COVID inpatients in the hospital — seven in the intensive care unit.The average age of COVID inpatients since the delta variant began affecting Ellis County has dropped to age 53."It's younger people being affected, for the most part healthy," she said. "These are not sick people ... and they're becoming very ill."<h2>Vaccinated vs. unvaccinated</h2>Of the 17 patients at HaysMed on Friday, only two were vaccinated — and those patients have an underlying health condition that makes the vaccine less effective."We want people to be healthy. So to see younger and younger people becoming hospitalized, becoming very sick is disheartening — especially now that there's a vaccine," Harris said.According to the Kansas Hospital Association's Aug. 18 update, 42 percent of Ellis County residents have been partially or fully vaccinated, just less than the statewide average of 43.8 percent. Several northwest Kansas counties have vaccination rates below the state average, with Sheridan County's 30 percent rate being among the lowest in the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629486759918.png" alt="Kansas Hospital Association" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Hospital Association</figcaption>
 </figure>Harris expected those numbers to improve."We're seeing a lot of people get vaccinated right now. There has been an uptick," she said.There have been a handful of "breakthrough" COVID cases in vaccinated individuals locally but Harris said the vaccine still positively affects those patients."No healthy adults with healthy immune systems have been hospitalized who've had the vaccine," she said.<h2>Delta=COVID</h2>HaysMed assumes all COVID cases are likely caused by the more contagious delta variant, noting it takes three weeks to have test samples returned to reach that determination."We're no different than the rest of the country —&nbsp;95 percent of the new cases are delta," Harris said. The symptoms of delta have been different, she noted. "Very high fevers — we didn't see high fevers last time. It's very variable (for each individual), but it looks like a terrible cold, nasal congestion, headaches, cough ... shortness of breath, low on oxygen. We're starting to see ... diarrhea, which we've only seen in the last few weeks."With allergy season also here, Harris offered advice familiar throughout the pandemic."If you don't feel good, stop. Don't go to work. Don't go to school. Stay home, and go get tested," she said, noting current testing offers a one-day turnaround on results. "That way, we can triage the right people and limit the spread."People are doing a better job this time. We're starting to see people respond quicker," she added. "Instead of not feeling good for a week and then coming in, people are coming in after a couple of days."<h2>Transfers</h2>The influx of COVID patients has put a strain on HaysMed's ICU capacity. As of Friday morning, the hospital was not accepting out-of-county transfers."This has caused the hospital to be very busy with very sick people," she said. "If you have a bad car wreck ... you're not coming."Updated 4:30 p.m. Friday to clarify quote.Harris noted hospital stays for recent COVID inpatients have been lengthy."This is not a quick illness. They're being hospitalized for weeks," she said.Vaccinations come into play with hospital capacity, as well. Noting the 15 unvaccinated COVID inpatients at HaysMed, Harris said, "if everyone would have been vaccinated, we should only have two (of those) people in the hospital right now."<h2>Vaccines for youth</h2>With individuals as young as 12 eligible to be vaccinated, Harris said she "100 percent" believes those younger individuals should receive the shot."The risk of them getting sick with COVID outweighs anything the vaccine could cause. One hundred percent on the 12 and up," she said, noting a COVID diagnosis would mean missing school, school activities and other social opportunities. "It takes several weeks to recover from COVID, to quarantine. We want them to stay healthy."She appreciated Hays USD 489 had put a plan in place that would closely monitor students, staff and teachers, as well as providing for contingencies like a mask requirement should cases spike among the school population."They're on it. They're really watching. They did a great job last year, so kudos to them," Harris said. "Our school nurses are working their buns off."Students — even the youngest —&nbsp;"did amazing" with masks last school year, she said, noting that should it reach that point, she expected the same behavior from students in the future.<h2>Misconceptions</h2>With a flurry of misinformation on social media, Harris quickly pointed out two myths she wanted the public to understand clearly."This vaccine is safe — really safe," she said, noting the speed of release of the vaccine was aided by years of prior research. "The technology they used to create the vaccine has been out for many years. Because the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/mrna.html">mRNA technology</a> was there, they were able to match it to the spike protein of this particular virus."She also pointed out the misconception the vaccine would have an impact on fertility in women."It has zero effect on fertility," Harris said. "This new variant is really affecting pregnant women and newborns more than the first. The risk of someone pregnant getting sick is very high."<h2>RSV</h2>Another recent development has been a surge in the number of cases of the respiratory disease RSV.Harris said doctors remain unsure if there is any connection between COVID and the RSV upswing. "We're perplexed because there was not a lot of RSV in the winter when we normally see it," she said. "(COVID) has changed the landscape of illness, but RSV is definitely affecting the younger kids .. and some adults."<h2>Around the corner</h2>With the return of students to Fort Hays State University and the beginning of school and school events, Harris expected Ellis County cases to spike again — almost exactly a year from when the initial spike started."Rates will go up the next several weeks," she said. "There's a fix for that. It's called a vaccine."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AM3gSgvN2Fw"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HaysMed chief medical officer discusses state of COVID spike

Three-day weather outlook

You have heard a lot about “self-care” during the past year. It is easy to get overloaded with news accounts that we really have no control over. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. It is a good time to explore how meditation and simple exercises can help clear your mind and energize your body.&nbsp;

We have a “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” class that is set to begin September 28th at the Great Bend Activity Center, located at 2715 18th Street. The three week-long class will be held on Tuesday’s and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through October 14th. The class that I enjoy leading with my husband, John, opens with a short meditation, followed by exercises. Do-In (pronounced doe-een) exercises are exercises for health. These exercises are suitable for older adults and anyone who is dealing with a chronic condition. The exercises stimulate the energy flow along the acupuncture meridians. The focus is on imagery, breathing and relaxation when performing the Do-In exercises.&nbsp;

During our first session I will introduce participants to a fact sheet I wrote a couple of years ago. The “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet offers the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:

If the Mindful Meditation and Do-In classes sound like something you would like to participate in, please give me a call to register. There is a $10 fee that may be paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend before the first session September 28th. Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up. I hope to see you soon!

Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>You have heard a lot about “self-care” during the past year. It is easy to get overloaded with news accounts that we really have no control over. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. It is a good time to explore how meditation and simple exercises can help clear your mind and energize your body.&nbsp;We have a “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” class that is set to begin September 28th at the Great Bend Activity Center, located at 2715 18th Street. The three week-long class will be held on Tuesday’s and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through October 14th. The class that I enjoy leading with my husband, John, opens with a short meditation, followed by exercises. Do-In (pronounced doe-een) exercises are exercises for health. These exercises are suitable for older adults and anyone who is dealing with a chronic condition. The exercises stimulate the energy flow along the acupuncture meridians. The focus is on imagery, breathing and relaxation when performing the Do-In exercises.&nbsp;During our first session I will introduce participants to a fact sheet I wrote a couple of years ago. The “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet offers the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:<ul>
 <li>Increased ability to relax</li><li>Improved concentration</li><li>Increased energy and enthusiasm for life</li><li>Increased creativity</li><li>Increased self-awareness</li><li>Improved self-esteem</li><li>Improved work/school performance</li>
 </ul>If the Mindful Meditation and Do-In classes sound like something you would like to participate in, please give me a call to register. There is a $10 fee that may be paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend before the first session September 28th. Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up. I hope to see you soon!Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Self-care is more important than ever 

NORTON COUNTY —On person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Norton County

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Victory motorcycle driven by Lavern L. White, 56, Oneill, NE., was southbound on U.S. 283 two miles south of U.S. 36.

The motorcycle rear-ended a 2013 Yamaha motorcycle driven by Billy T. Lowry, 25, WaKeeney, who had slowed to turn into a private drive. The Victory motorcycle rolled and the driver was ejected.

EMS transported White to the Norton County Hospital. Lowry was not transported for treatment. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY —On person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Norton CountyThe Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Victory motorcycle driven by Lavern L. White, 56, Oneill, NE., was southbound on U.S. 283 two miles south of U.S. 36.The motorcycle rear-ended a 2013 Yamaha motorcycle driven by Billy T. Lowry, 25, WaKeeney, who had slowed to turn into a private drive. The Victory motorcycle rolled and the driver was ejected.EMS transported White to the Norton County Hospital. Lowry was not transported for treatment. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

1 hospitalized after motorcycle rear-ends motorcycle

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams talks about the impact of declining populations on the area economy.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Census data highlights growing economic concern" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=xd2k3-10bcb6f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams talks about the impact of declining populations on the area economy.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Census data highlights growing economic concern

The Hays USD 489 school board will conduct its annual budget hearing at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The budget includes a slight mill levy decrease from&nbsp;41.241 mills last year to&nbsp;41.236 mills for the 2021-22 school year.

The school district's valuation increased from&nbsp;$322,681,782 in 2020-21 to&nbsp;$335,274,898 for the 2021-22 school year.

The board will discuss what it wishes to do with the seat that is being vacated by Nuchelle Chance. Chance resigned after she moved out of state.

The board can appoint someone to fill the position or it can leave that seat vacant until it is filled through election in January 2022.

The board will consider&nbsp;a proposal from Integrated Consulting Engineer for the design and installation of new HVAC systems at Wilson Elementary and Hays High School.

The board will also consider the HHS student handbook and policy revisions recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will conduct its annual budget hearing at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.The budget includes a slight mill levy decrease from&nbsp;41.241 mills last year to&nbsp;41.236 mills for the 2021-22 school year.The school district's valuation increased from&nbsp;$322,681,782 in 2020-21 to&nbsp;$335,274,898 for the 2021-22 school year.The board will discuss what it wishes to do with the seat that is being vacated by Nuchelle Chance. Chance resigned after she moved out of state.The board can appoint someone to fill the position or it can leave that seat vacant until it is filled through election in January 2022.The board will consider&nbsp;a proposal from Integrated Consulting Engineer for the design and installation of new HVAC systems at Wilson Elementary and Hays High School.The board will also consider the HHS student handbook and policy revisions recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.

Hays USD 489 school board to consider budget Monday

The recent release of additional 2020 Census numbers is a treasure trove of fascinating data about Kansas. While redistricting and the urbanization of Kansas have dominated the political chatter about these data, they also tell an interesting story about our state’s growing Hispanic population.&nbsp;

Let’s clarify some concepts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Census measures “Hispanic” as an ethnicity that crosses racial lines. However, studies on racial identity show that most Americans, including most self-identified Hispanics, perceive Hispanic as a race itself.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Further, Gallup and Pew surveys find that about 60 percent of self-identified Hispanics in America prefer the term “Hispanic” when asked to label themselves, about a third prefer “Latino,” and less than 5 percent prefer “Latinx.”&nbsp;

That said, let’s talk numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both the country and Kansas grew more racially diverse since 2010 as the White percentage of the population declined. The Hispanic percentage of the American population grew from 16 percent in 2010 to 19 percent in 2020. In Kansas, Hispanics grew from 10.5 percent of the state to 13 percent.&nbsp;

Put differently, Kansas’s Hispanic population grew roughly 25 percent since 2010. In contrast, Kansas’s population overall grew just 3 percent last decade. And Hispanics grew as a share of the population in all but 9 Kansas counties, even as 80 of 105 counties lost population. So, Hispanics are disproportionately driving Kansas’s modest population growth.&nbsp;

Kansas Hispanics remain concentrated in Southwest Kansas, where Finney, Ford, Seward, and Grant counties are majority Hispanic. Elsewhere, Hispanics are more concentrated in urban communities, especially Wichita, Topeka, Emporia, Salina, Hutchison, Newton, Kansas City, and Olathe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What are the politics here, especially for Kansas Hispanics to achieve greater political power as they grow?&nbsp;

First, the voting weight of Kansas Hispanics doesn’t reflect their numbers. Take Ford County, for example. In the 2020 Census, 58 percent of residents were Hispanic. However, the Census’s American Community Survey puts the county’s citizen voting age population at 63 percent non-Hispanic White.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Add to that comparatively lower voter registration and turnout rates among Hispanics. The result is that—for now—majority Hispanic Kansas communities have majority White electorates and often no elected Hispanic representation.&nbsp;

Second, most voter mobilization happens through partisan campaign activities, but neither party has strong incentives to target Hispanic Kansas voters. Hispanics skew significantly Democratic and often more liberal than Whites on issues, giving Republicans little reason to engage them. Democrats likely win more votes by focusing their more limited resources on blueing high turnout White suburbanites.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barriers to voting aside, to effectively mobilize Hispanic voters in Kansas, that push likely has to come from community organizations, perhaps from within the Hispanic community itself, that operate outside of traditional campaigns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Third, gerrymandering in some communities, especially for local office, limits Hispanic political representation. For example, some Kansas counties drawn county commission lines that divide more concentrated Hispanic neighborhoods across multiple districts, sometimes using questionably legal non-contiguous districts. This prevents Hispanic voters from being concentrated enough in any one district to elect a Hispanic candidate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As Kansas’s Hispanic population grows, the political power that their growth merits won’t just magically appear. Starting at the local level, it will necessitate promoting engagement within that community, changing the electoral calculus of political establishments, and eliminating institutional barriers to Hispanic representation. It won’t happen overnight, but if demographics are destiny it will happen.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The recent release of additional 2020 Census numbers is a treasure trove of fascinating data about Kansas. While redistricting and the urbanization of Kansas have dominated the political chatter about these data, they also tell an interesting story about our state’s growing Hispanic population.&nbsp;Let’s clarify some concepts.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Census measures “Hispanic” as an ethnicity that crosses racial lines. However, studies on racial identity show that most Americans, including most self-identified Hispanics, perceive Hispanic as a race itself.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Further, Gallup and Pew surveys find that about 60 percent of self-identified Hispanics in America prefer the term “Hispanic” when asked to label themselves, about a third prefer “Latino,” and less than 5 percent prefer “Latinx.”&nbsp;That said, let’s talk numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both the country and Kansas grew more racially diverse since 2010 as the White percentage of the population declined. The Hispanic percentage of the American population grew from 16 percent in 2010 to 19 percent in 2020. In Kansas, Hispanics grew from 10.5 percent of the state to 13 percent.&nbsp;Put differently, Kansas’s Hispanic population grew roughly 25 percent since 2010. In contrast, Kansas’s population overall grew just 3 percent last decade. And Hispanics grew as a share of the population in all but 9 Kansas counties, even as 80 of 105 counties lost population. So, Hispanics are disproportionately driving Kansas’s modest population growth.&nbsp;Kansas Hispanics remain concentrated in Southwest Kansas, where Finney, Ford, Seward, and Grant counties are majority Hispanic. Elsewhere, Hispanics are more concentrated in urban communities, especially Wichita, Topeka, Emporia, Salina, Hutchison, Newton, Kansas City, and Olathe.&nbsp;&nbsp;What are the politics here, especially for Kansas Hispanics to achieve greater political power as they grow?&nbsp;First, the voting weight of Kansas Hispanics doesn’t reflect their numbers. Take Ford County, for example. In the 2020 Census, 58 percent of residents were Hispanic. However, the Census’s American Community Survey puts the county’s citizen voting age population at 63 percent non-Hispanic White.&nbsp;&nbsp;Add to that comparatively lower voter registration and turnout rates among Hispanics. The result is that—for now—majority Hispanic Kansas communities have majority White electorates and often no elected Hispanic representation.&nbsp;Second, most voter mobilization happens through partisan campaign activities, but neither party has strong incentives to target Hispanic Kansas voters. Hispanics skew significantly Democratic and often more liberal than Whites on issues, giving Republicans little reason to engage them. Democrats likely win more votes by focusing their more limited resources on blueing high turnout White suburbanites.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barriers to voting aside, to effectively mobilize Hispanic voters in Kansas, that push likely has to come from community organizations, perhaps from within the Hispanic community itself, that operate outside of traditional campaigns.&nbsp;&nbsp;Third, gerrymandering in some communities, especially for local office, limits Hispanic political representation. For example, some Kansas counties drawn county commission lines that divide more concentrated Hispanic neighborhoods across multiple districts, sometimes using questionably legal non-contiguous districts. This prevents Hispanic voters from being concentrated enough in any one district to elect a Hispanic candidate.&nbsp;&nbsp;As Kansas’s Hispanic population grows, the political power that their growth merits won’t just magically appear. Starting at the local level, it will necessitate promoting engagement within that community, changing the electoral calculus of political establishments, and eliminating institutional barriers to Hispanic representation. It won’t happen overnight, but if demographics are destiny it will happen.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Hispanic population growing, but short on political power 

WICHITA —&nbsp; The proposed Kansas Health Science Center – Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KHSC-KansasCOM), currently under construction in downtown Wichita, recently named Megan Bayer,
 MSN, RN, IBCLC, CHSE, as director of simulation and associate 
professor, and Saajan Bhakta, Ph.D., as director of clinical health 
outcomes research and associate professor. 

Megan Bayer is a registered nurse, an 
international board-certified lactation consultant and a certified 
healthcare simulation educator who has participated in high fidelity 
simulations with students from nursing, pharmacy, and medical schools as
 well as in the hospital setting. She has 14 years of experience as a 
nurse in a clinical setting, 10 years as a small business owner and a 
wide range of teaching experience. She most recently served as director 
of simulation education at WSU Tech while also working as a contract 
nurse in the COVID unit at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis.

Bayer received her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wichita State University and her master's degree in nursing from Fort Hays State University. She is an active community advocate and Wichita resident for more than 20 years. 

Dr. Bhakta previously served as adjunct professor of psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where he taught and supervised students working on global psychological research in countries like Peru and Ethiopia.
 He is also the director of wellness and transitions at People, Pets 
&amp; Vets where he works as a consultant who oversees mental health and
 well-being programming for more than 75 hospitals across the U.S. 

Committed to global service, Dr. Bhakta founded a nonprofit 
organization, PovSolve, that is committed to making positive change by 
raising money and creating awareness for human suffering around the 
world.

Dr. Bhakta earned both his bachelor's degree in psychology and his master's degree in criminal justice from Wichita State University. In 2020, he completed his Ph.D. in international psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, an affiliate of TCS Education System.

"It is a great honor to create a dream team of faculty at KHSC that now includes Megan Bayer and Dr. Bhakta," said KHSC President and Chief Executive Officer Tiffany Masson,
 Psy.D. "Her work at the bedside, in the classroom, and in the 
community, shows Megan is dedicated to improving the health of families 
across Kansas. And with a passion for 
understanding brain science across diverse cultures, Dr. Bhakta is 
focused on the application of psychology to complex global problems. 
Both are incredible assets to have on our team with the mission of 
training the osteopathic physician of the future."

With the goal of opening for the 2022 academic year, the proposed 
KHSC-KansasCOM is currently working through the accreditation process. 
The school is currently under construction, remodeling 116,000 square 
feet of the historic building at 217 N. Douglas, to include 
state-of-the-art technology and learning spaces, an osteopathic skills 
training center, standardized patient teaching rooms, large lecture 
halls, small group study rooms, a virtual anatomy lab, and much more. 

About Kansas Health Science Center: Kansas 
Health Science Center is a nonprofit organization committed to training 
well-prepared physicians and health care leaders who will positively 
contribute to the overall well-being of our communities. With the goal 
of opening the proposed Kansas Health Science Center - Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2022, KHSC strives to positively impact the health landscape in Wichita and the state of Kansas through directly addressing the disparity in access to healthcare. Learn more at <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3261236-1&amp;h=3220939261&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fkansashsc.org%2F&amp;a=kansashsc.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kansashsc.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629297048524.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRNewswireWICHITA —&nbsp; The proposed Kansas Health Science Center – Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KHSC-KansasCOM), currently under construction in downtown Wichita, recently named Megan Bayer,
 MSN, RN, IBCLC, CHSE, as director of simulation and associate 
professor, and Saajan Bhakta, Ph.D., as director of clinical health 
outcomes research and associate professor. Megan Bayer is a registered nurse, an 
international board-certified lactation consultant and a certified 
healthcare simulation educator who has participated in high fidelity 
simulations with students from nursing, pharmacy, and medical schools as
 well as in the hospital setting. She has 14 years of experience as a 
nurse in a clinical setting, 10 years as a small business owner and a 
wide range of teaching experience. She most recently served as director 
of simulation education at WSU Tech while also working as a contract 
nurse in the COVID unit at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis.Bayer received her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wichita State University and her master's degree in nursing from Fort Hays State University. She is an active community advocate and Wichita resident for more than 20 years. Dr. Bhakta previously served as adjunct professor of psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where he taught and supervised students working on global psychological research in countries like Peru and Ethiopia.
 He is also the director of wellness and transitions at People, Pets 
&amp; Vets where he works as a consultant who oversees mental health and
 well-being programming for more than 75 hospitals across the U.S. Committed to global service, Dr. Bhakta founded a nonprofit 
organization, PovSolve, that is committed to making positive change by 
raising money and creating awareness for human suffering around the 
world.Dr. Bhakta earned both his bachelor's degree in psychology and his master's degree in criminal justice from Wichita State University. In 2020, he completed his Ph.D. in international psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, an affiliate of TCS Education System."It is a great honor to create a dream team of faculty at KHSC that now includes Megan Bayer and Dr. Bhakta," said KHSC President and Chief Executive Officer Tiffany Masson,
 Psy.D. "Her work at the bedside, in the classroom, and in the 
community, shows Megan is dedicated to improving the health of families 
across Kansas. And with a passion for 
understanding brain science across diverse cultures, Dr. Bhakta is 
focused on the application of psychology to complex global problems. 
Both are incredible assets to have on our team with the mission of 
training the osteopathic physician of the future."With the goal of opening for the 2022 academic year, the proposed 
KHSC-KansasCOM is currently working through the accreditation process. 
The school is currently under construction, remodeling 116,000 square 
feet of the historic building at 217 N. Douglas, to include 
state-of-the-art technology and learning spaces, an osteopathic skills 
training center, standardized patient teaching rooms, large lecture 
halls, small group study rooms, a virtual anatomy lab, and much more. About Kansas Health Science Center: Kansas 
Health Science Center is a nonprofit organization committed to training 
well-prepared physicians and health care leaders who will positively 
contribute to the overall well-being of our communities. With the goal 
of opening the proposed Kansas Health Science Center - Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2022, KHSC strives to positively impact the health landscape in Wichita and the state of Kansas through directly addressing the disparity in access to healthcare. Learn more at <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3261236-1&amp;h=3220939261&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fkansashsc.org%2F&amp;a=kansashsc.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kansashsc.org</a>.

FHSU alum named director of simulation at Kansas Health Science Center

We had the opportunity to travel a couple of weeks ago and I was in my favorite seat by the window just in front of the airplane wing.

As I looked out, I noticed the rivets. Have you ever thought about that tiny, seemingly insignificant piece of metal? Rivets are fun accessories on jeans or handbags but also hold things – like airplanes – together!

When I think of the number of men and women painstakingly installing each rivet in just the correct place so that each piece lines up and creates a safe vehicle for us to travel in, I am amazed. Additionally, it requires a substantial amount of force to properly set a rivet. If a rivet fails or is installed incorrectly, it can cause dire circumstances for everyone involved.

I find many analogies for youth development and those rivets! Raising the next generation of community and business leaders takes men and women who invest time and energy into providing positive learning experiences.

I often tell 4-H kids that life lessons stink…..that’s why they are life lessons; it often takes tough situations for each of us to learn patience and perseverance which is the force needed to set the rivets. We also need to check regularly for wear and tear. On equipment this necessary maintenance keeps things moving smoothly and safely; on people, this maintenance is crucial for healthy minds and bodies.

This is much the same for our communities. Yes, we need structure and purpose but it takes each of us holding our small bit together to get us all where we are going!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>We had the opportunity to travel a couple of weeks ago and I was in my favorite seat by the window just in front of the airplane wing.As I looked out, I noticed the rivets. Have you ever thought about that tiny, seemingly insignificant piece of metal? Rivets are fun accessories on jeans or handbags but also hold things – like airplanes – together!When I think of the number of men and women painstakingly installing each rivet in just the correct place so that each piece lines up and creates a safe vehicle for us to travel in, I am amazed. Additionally, it requires a substantial amount of force to properly set a rivet. If a rivet fails or is installed incorrectly, it can cause dire circumstances for everyone involved.I find many analogies for youth development and those rivets! Raising the next generation of community and business leaders takes men and women who invest time and energy into providing positive learning experiences.I often tell 4-H kids that life lessons stink…..that’s why they are life lessons; it often takes tough situations for each of us to learn patience and perseverance which is the force needed to set the rivets. We also need to check regularly for wear and tear. On equipment this necessary maintenance keeps things moving smoothly and safely; on people, this maintenance is crucial for healthy minds and bodies.This is much the same for our communities. Yes, we need structure and purpose but it takes each of us holding our small bit together to get us all where we are going!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Holding everything together

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

New public parking signs have been installed in downtown Hays, a recent collaborative effort of the city's public works department and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), along with the Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC).

The signs were purchased by the CVB and DHDC and installed by public works employees in the service division, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.

"The signs will direct local traffic and visitors to more than a hundred parking spaces," Bielser said during a progress report presented during a recent city commission meeting.

"They look wonderful," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor. "They jump right out at you."

The parks department has planted grass in the new ARC Park in Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, along the stormwater retention pond as well as installing erosion control blankets and a temporary irrigation system.

The IT (Information Technology) Department has updated its response map at the request of the fire department for an updated fire protection survey.

"Eighty-four percent of the city is within 2.5 road miles of the fire department for response," Bielser said. "The [Ellis] county fire station is included in this for our ISO rating."

Bielser has more highlights of work and projects of city department's in his most recent progress report seen below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629600658686.jpeg" alt="New public parking signs in downtown Hays indicate locations of more than 100 free public parking spaces. (Photo by City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>New public parking signs in downtown Hays indicate locations of more than 100 free public parking spaces. (Photo by City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostNew public parking signs have been installed in downtown Hays, a recent collaborative effort of the city's public works department and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), along with the Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC).The signs were purchased by the CVB and DHDC and installed by public works employees in the service division, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager."The signs will direct local traffic and visitors to more than a hundred parking spaces," Bielser said during a progress report presented during a recent city commission meeting."They look wonderful," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor. "They jump right out at you."The parks department has planted grass in the new ARC Park in Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, along the stormwater retention pond as well as installing erosion control blankets and a temporary irrigation system.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629600148155.jpeg" alt="Eighty-four percent of the city of Hays is within 2.5 miles of the fire department in downtown Hays.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Eighty-four percent of the city of Hays is within 2.5 miles of the fire department in downtown Hays.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The IT (Information Technology) Department has updated its response map at the request of the fire department for an updated fire protection survey."Eighty-four percent of the city is within 2.5 road miles of the fire department for response," Bielser said. "The [Ellis] county fire station is included in this for our ISO rating."Bielser has more highlights of work and projects of city department's in his most recent progress report seen below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KRBCv2gbh7Q"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
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🎥 City Progress Report: New signs indicate free public parking in downtown Hays

Hays Police Department&nbsp;

On Aug. 20 at 10:25 p.m. the Hays PD received a report of a shooting in the 4500 block of Larned Circle. 

Officers from the HPD and deputies from the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and found a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. 

The victim was transported to Hays Medical Center where he later died from his injuries. 

The Coroner’s Office, detectives from the HPD, and agents from the KBI were called to investigate the incident. 

Hays Police Department&nbsp;On Aug. 20 at 10:25 p.m. the Hays PD received a report of a shooting in the 4500 block of Larned Circle. Officers from the HPD and deputies from the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and found a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to Hays Medical Center where he later died from his injuries. The Coroner’s Office, detectives from the HPD, and agents from the KBI were called to investigate the incident. The ensuing investigation determined that the victim was at home with two other roommates. One of the victim’s roommates was in the front room preparing to make repairs to a firearm. While the victim’s roommate was handling the firearm, the firearm discharged, striking the victim in the head. The roommates immediately called 911 and waited on scene for law enforcement to respond. The initial findings of the investigation are that this was an accidental shooting and that there is no danger to the community.

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