🎥 City commission to review rezoning for former St. Joseph Parish Center

The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a tornado watch for portions of northwest Kansas, including Ellis County.

"There are increasing rain chances Thursday associated with an upper-level wave bringing in ample tropical moisture from the Southwest," the NWS reported. "Severe weather threat is relatively low, but flooding could be a concern for points east of the Highway 183 corridor where up to 2 inches of rain is possible through early Saturday morning."

The watch is in effect until midnight.&nbsp;

There is a 70 percent chance of precipitation in Ellis County throughout Thursday evening. Potential rainfall is expected to last into Friday morning.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations foe the latest on sever weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630623176776.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a tornado watch for portions of northwest Kansas, including Ellis County."There are increasing rain chances Thursday associated with an upper-level wave bringing in ample tropical moisture from the Southwest," the NWS reported. "Severe weather threat is relatively low, but flooding could be a concern for points east of the Highway 183 corridor where up to 2 inches of rain is possible through early Saturday morning."The watch is in effect until midnight.&nbsp;There is a 70 percent chance of precipitation in Ellis County throughout Thursday evening. Potential rainfall is expected to last into Friday morning.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations foe the latest on sever weather.

NWS: Tornado watch in effect for Ellis County

We are pleased to announce, through the generosity of a $1 million 
gift from Don and Chris Bickle as well as two half  million dollar gifts
 from both the Hadley Foundation and the Schmidt Foundation, that 
construction of a new hybrid operating suite at HaysMed is beginning 
soon. 

“These investments from Don and Chris Bickle, as well as the 
Hadley and Schmidt Foundations represent about a third of the total 
project cost,” said HaysMed Foundation Executive Director Jeff Brull. 
“We’re excited about the expanded services this project represents to 
the entire region, and there is abundant opportunity for more people and
 organizations to contribute their support at every level.” 

The geographic footprint of patients who seek cardiac services at 
HaysMed’s DeBakey Heart Institute is more than 33,000 square miles. The 
services provided at HaysMed are extensive, but the industry standard of
 care continues to evolve. HaysMed is implementing an ambitious plan to 
provide more minimally invasive procedure options for the people of our 
region that not only reduce risk and recovery time, but also increase 
the number of patients we are able to serve and the types of procedures 
that can be done locally. 

New hybrid operating suite at HaysMed will increase options for heart patients in western Kansas

Hybrid operating facilities are fast becoming the standard of care to address conditions that were previously only treatable by doing open-heart surgery. This allows the latest, most advanced procedures that require the skills of multiple doctors from different specialties. In this suite, high-risk operations can be performed without having to move patients from one area to another. Think of it as a combination of a cardiac catheterization lab paired with a traditional operating room equipped for open-heart procedures with all the tools, staffing, and space to accommodate both. 

At a recent meeting giving an overview of the future of the DeBakey Heart Institute at HaysMed, President and CEO Eddie Herrman said, “Heart programs are faced with the decision to adopt these new technologies and procedures or choose to risk letting their program become obsolete.”

The implementation of new hybrid operating rooms at HaysMed allows new services and procedures in our region to be completed in a much shorter timeframe, with fewer side effects, fewer recovery and inpatient days, and fewer risks to the patient. Shorter patient recovery time and decreased length of stay due to elimination of staging between multiple procedures means patients will return home more quickly. 

The HaysMed Foundation has made a commitment to support approximately half of the proposed cost of this $6.5 million project. Through the generosity of Don and Chris Bickle, as well as the Hadley and Schmidt Foundations, we’re well on our way. If you’d like to learn more or to find ways you or your organization might help build these facilities for our patients, please contact the HaysMed Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630509812649.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMed FoundationWe are pleased to announce, through the generosity of a $1 million 
gift from Don and Chris Bickle as well as two half million dollar gifts
 from both the Hadley Foundation and the Schmidt Foundation, that 
construction of a new hybrid operating suite at HaysMed is beginning 
soon. “These investments from Don and Chris Bickle, as well as the 
Hadley and Schmidt Foundations represent about a third of the total 
project cost,” said HaysMed Foundation Executive Director Jeff Brull. 
“We’re excited about the expanded services this project represents to 
the entire region, and there is abundant opportunity for more people and
 organizations to contribute their support at every level.” The geographic footprint of patients who seek cardiac services at 
HaysMed’s DeBakey Heart Institute is more than 33,000 square miles. The 
services provided at HaysMed are extensive, but the industry standard of
 care continues to evolve. HaysMed is implementing an ambitious plan to 
provide more minimally invasive procedure options for the people of our 
region that not only reduce risk and recovery time, but also increase 
the number of patients we are able to serve and the types of procedures 
that can be done locally. <h2>New hybrid operating suite at HaysMed will increase options for heart patients in western Kansas</h2>Hybrid operating facilities are fast becoming the standard of care to address conditions that were previously only treatable by doing open-heart surgery. This allows the latest, most advanced procedures that require the skills of multiple doctors from different specialties. In this suite, high-risk operations can be performed without having to move patients from one area to another. Think of it as a combination of a cardiac catheterization lab paired with a traditional operating room equipped for open-heart procedures with all the tools, staffing, and space to accommodate both. At a recent meeting giving an overview of the future of the DeBakey Heart Institute at HaysMed, President and CEO Eddie Herrman said, “Heart programs are faced with the decision to adopt these new technologies and procedures or choose to risk letting their program become obsolete.”The implementation of new hybrid operating rooms at HaysMed allows new services and procedures in our region to be completed in a much shorter timeframe, with fewer side effects, fewer recovery and inpatient days, and fewer risks to the patient. Shorter patient recovery time and decreased length of stay due to elimination of staging between multiple procedures means patients will return home more quickly. The HaysMed Foundation has made a commitment to support approximately half of the proposed cost of this $6.5 million project. Through the generosity of Don and Chris Bickle, as well as the Hadley and Schmidt Foundations, we’re well on our way. If you’d like to learn more or to find ways you or your organization might help build these facilities for our patients, please contact the HaysMed Foundation.— Submitted

After $2M in gifts, hybrid operating suite to be built at HaysMed

Applications are still open for employers in northwest Kansas interested in a Fort Hays State University spring or summer intern.

Thanks to a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, funding was made possible for 25 paid internships during the 2021-22 academic year, including the summer 2022 term.

Applications for spring and summer interns will be accepted through September 17th.

Eligible employers must be located within the Hansen Foundation’s 26-county service area: the block of counties stretching from the Cheyenne-Wallace County east, including the Republic-Saline County area and Ellsworth County.

Interested employers should go to the Career Services page on the FHSU website (<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtG5PucV5OyxhgJ0tnlB5qvSeVHTGbbIP-2B3deK9cQnLkt-2FHslK7jhKLG-2BZV4Ad4pXsZGYo2COHsq4fX3QO1d0XKo-3DXgAR_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem81MMGaTDGL6f7nI-2FUHsG01xoXrThap7-2B4uEAb2tfU0V8woNCpOGh7My6QkmIP1qOfBrCKQj3oipD5sVBgQ6PXfLMs6polvotkB7kkO4Bt6MZULNNFleXJwbSae7vJU9De7ncgs-2BuB8PrpE43yzjRYOvw6mFd91tAMhwOhKzBq-2FExGGIJROID2p7cbo1nEnkJo53cGv0zI6Scf9IrI8D7czx7L-2BHFz6Yew6vEH1rk-2Bz7iYYxdrEkBWL8T3kQKtXGWmTNwiqX9NffYXYVDjc4PFw-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/career/employers/hansen-internship-program</a>) to learn more about the program and complete the application. Employers will be asked to provide a detailed job description for the internship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630333575014.jpeg" alt="Employers must come from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation Service area." />
 <figcaption>Employers must come from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation Service area.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsApplications are still open for employers in northwest Kansas interested in a Fort Hays State University spring or summer intern.Thanks to a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, funding was made possible for 25 paid internships during the 2021-22 academic year, including the summer 2022 term.Applications for spring and summer interns will be accepted through September 17th.Eligible employers must be located within the Hansen Foundation’s 26-county service area: the block of counties stretching from the Cheyenne-Wallace County east, including the Republic-Saline County area and Ellsworth County.Interested employers should go to the Career Services page on the FHSU website (<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtG5PucV5OyxhgJ0tnlB5qvSeVHTGbbIP-2B3deK9cQnLkt-2FHslK7jhKLG-2BZV4Ad4pXsZGYo2COHsq4fX3QO1d0XKo-3DXgAR_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem81MMGaTDGL6f7nI-2FUHsG01xoXrThap7-2B4uEAb2tfU0V8woNCpOGh7My6QkmIP1qOfBrCKQj3oipD5sVBgQ6PXfLMs6polvotkB7kkO4Bt6MZULNNFleXJwbSae7vJU9De7ncgs-2BuB8PrpE43yzjRYOvw6mFd91tAMhwOhKzBq-2FExGGIJROID2p7cbo1nEnkJo53cGv0zI6Scf9IrI8D7czx7L-2BHFz6Yew6vEH1rk-2Bz7iYYxdrEkBWL8T3kQKtXGWmTNwiqX9NffYXYVDjc4PFw-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/career/employers/hansen-internship-program</a>) to learn more about the program and complete the application. Employers will be asked to provide a detailed job description for the internship.

Employer application deadline for Hansen interns is Sept. 17

Three-day weather outlook

&nbsp;MARQUETTE - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at Kanopolis Lake will not be issuing Hunting Equipment Permits this hunting season due to COVID-19 concerns. The Hunting Equipment Permit Program hunting policies and regulations still apply with the only change of not requiring the physical permit tag.&nbsp;

This free permit allows individuals to keep privately owned tree stands, blinds, and game cameras for more than a 24-hour period on USACE public access areas. In lieu of the permit tag for the 2021-22&nbsp;hunting season, USACE is requesting that hunters place their Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks&nbsp;license number on any equipment placed on Kanopolis federally managed public lands as they would on state managed public lands.

Friendly reminders to hunters on USACE managed land:

For more information see our contact data below:

Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Kanopolis-Lake/">https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Kanopolis-Lake/</a>

Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:brandon.l.beckman@usace.army.mil">kanopolis@usace.army.mil</a>

For additional questions, contact Kanopolis Project Office at 785-546-2294 or by email.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629926260509.jpeg" alt="(Photo by USACE)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by USACE)</figcaption>
 </figure>USACE&nbsp;MARQUETTE - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at Kanopolis Lake will not be issuing Hunting Equipment Permits this hunting season due to COVID-19 concerns. The Hunting Equipment Permit Program hunting policies and regulations still apply with the only change of not requiring the physical permit tag.&nbsp;This free permit allows individuals to keep privately owned tree stands, blinds, and game cameras for more than a 24-hour period on USACE public access areas. In lieu of the permit tag for the 2021-22&nbsp;hunting season, USACE is requesting that hunters place their Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks&nbsp;license number on any equipment placed on Kanopolis federally managed public lands as they would on state managed public lands.Friendly reminders to hunters on USACE managed land:<ul>
 <li>Operation and/or parking of a vehicle off authorized roadways is prohibited. Do not proceed past any gates open or closed with any vehicle. Wildlife areas are walk-in only.</li><li>All garbage, trash, or any other waste must be removed from project lands or deposited in appropriate receptacles.</li><li>Cutting of trees or parts of trees is prohibited. Any tree, shrub or other vegetation may not be damaged in any way, shape or form. *screw in steps, bow holders, trail markers or any other device that could damage a tree are strictly prohibited.</li><li>Private lands border public areas. Know your boundaries and do not trespass.</li><li>Commercial guiding is prohibited on public lands.</li><li>Baiting of any kind is prohibited on public lands.</li><li>Be ethical and respectful to your fellow hunters and public land users.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>For more information see our contact data below:Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Kanopolis-Lake/">https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Kanopolis-Lake/</a>Facebook: @kanopolislakeusaceEmail:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:brandon.l.beckman@usace.army.mil">kanopolis@usace.army.mil</a>For additional questions, contact Kanopolis Project Office at 785-546-2294 or by email.

No hunting equipment permits issued at Kanopolis Lake due to COVID

THOMAS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 3:30 Wednesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Toyota Prius driven by Frank T. Herrman, 75, Salina, was westbound on Interstate 70 five miles east of Kansas 25.

The Prius briefly exited the westbound lanes to the right, entered the westbound lanes again, traveled across both westbound lanes, crossed the median and collided with and eastbound 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 driven by Bethany G. Vargas, 27, Breckenridge, Colorado, in the eastbound lanes.

Herrman was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Baalmann's Mortuary. EMS transported&nbsp;Vargas to Citizen's Medical Center in Colby. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 3:30 Wednesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Toyota Prius driven by Frank T. Herrman, 75, Salina, was westbound on Interstate 70 five miles east of Kansas 25.The Prius briefly exited the westbound lanes to the right, entered the westbound lanes again, traveled across both westbound lanes, crossed the median and collided with and eastbound 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 driven by Bethany G. Vargas, 27, Breckenridge, Colorado, in the eastbound lanes.Herrman was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Baalmann's Mortuary. EMS transported&nbsp;Vargas to Citizen's Medical Center in Colby. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after 2-vehicle I-70 crash

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 32 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 248 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. As of Wednesday, the KDHE reported 46 percent of eligible residents of Ellis County were fully vaccinated.

As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,052 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630519071392.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 32 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 248 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. As of Wednesday, the KDHE reported 46 percent of eligible residents of Ellis County were fully vaccinated.As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 4,052 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 32 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The time of the day has always dictated if you will see the two female
lions or the male lion at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. 

Luke is the elder
statesman at eight years old and Amana and Sauda are four years old. The two
females were brought to the zoo in 2017 to be companions for Luke. 

Through
multiple years of introducing the lions in a safe approach, zoo staff allowed
all three lions to be “out in the yard” of the exhibit at the same time in
August. Brit Spaugh Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said the first time sharing the
exhibit went well but the second interaction forced the staff to dial back the
introductions. 
"We base the introduction on Luke every day," said Burdick. "On the warmer days, we might keep trying if he seems calm. The last one we did, he was circling the girls and that's not a behavior we want to see. At this point, we're getting to 'will it ever happen' because we have been trying for a long time." 
Luke shared the exhibit with Boss, another male lion, for years before Boss was
humanely euthanized in 2016. Trying to form a pride for Luke, the girls were
brought to Great Bend from Florida a year later.

Burdick said the zoo is not done
trying to see if the lions can coexist in the exhibit, but sometimes these
introductions just do not work out. 
"They are big, giant animals and if they don't want to do something...they're not going to do it," said Burdick. "The girls get to go out in the morning and we flip-flop them in the afternoon. Everybody gets yard time even if they can't share it at the same time." 
The Great Bend zoo is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day with free admission.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628860370945.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe time of the day has always dictated if you will see the two female
lions or the male lion at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. Luke is the elder
statesman at eight years old and Amana and Sauda are four years old. The two
females were brought to the zoo in 2017 to be companions for Luke. Through
multiple years of introducing the lions in a safe approach, zoo staff allowed
all three lions to be “out in the yard” of the exhibit at the same time in
August. Brit Spaugh Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said the first time sharing the
exhibit went well but the second interaction forced the staff to dial back the
introductions. 
"We base the introduction on Luke every day," said Burdick. "On the warmer days, we might keep trying if he seems calm. The last one we did, he was circling the girls and that's not a behavior we want to see. At this point, we're getting to 'will it ever happen' because we have been trying for a long time." 
Luke shared the exhibit with Boss, another male lion, for years before Boss was
humanely euthanized in 2016. Trying to form a pride for Luke, the girls were
brought to Great Bend from Florida a year later. Burdick said the zoo is not done
trying to see if the lions can coexist in the exhibit, but sometimes these
introductions just do not work out. 
"They are big, giant animals and if they don't want to do something...they're not going to do it," said Burdick. "The girls get to go out in the morning and we flip-flop them in the afternoon. Everybody gets yard time even if they can't share it at the same time." 
The Great Bend zoo is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day with free admission.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Not the closest of friends yet for Great Bend zoo’s lions

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's a month a wide-ranging sports events as school starts and the warm weather sticks around for awhile.

More than 180 people are expected to turn ut for the 37th annual PDGA Frontier Open Disc Golf tourney the weekend of Sept. 11, while the Fort Hays State University Tiger football team opens its season at home Thursay evening&nbsp; at 7 p.m.

RMP Speedway will host IMCA Championship Night Sept. 18 and Fall National Practice Sept. 30.

For those wanting to enjoy indoor activities, the Hays Symphony Opening Gala Concert is Sept. 25.&nbsp;

Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) exec. dir., has highlights of more events during September.&nbsp;

An updated calendar of events is available on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's a month a wide-ranging sports events as school starts and the warm weather sticks around for awhile.More than 180 people are expected to turn ut for the 37th annual PDGA Frontier Open Disc Golf tourney the weekend of Sept. 11, while the Fort Hays State University Tiger football team opens its season at home Thursay evening&nbsp; at 7 p.m.RMP Speedway will host IMCA Championship Night Sept. 18 and Fall National Practice Sept. 30.For those wanting to enjoy indoor activities, the Hays Symphony Opening Gala Concert is Sept. 25.&nbsp;Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) exec. dir., has highlights of more events during September.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_PjMJeCmhSA"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An updated calendar of events is available on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630514837364.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 CVB: September events and activities in Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Joshua Brooks Heimsoth learned to weld on the farm he grew up on near Cole Camp, Mo.

He uses those skills today in his art that the from sleek modern sculptures to industrial steam-punk pieces.

He uses found objects, such as an old vanity. He also fabricates pieces from the ground up using ceramic and steel. Many of his pieces include electric light or some kind of powered movement.

Heimsoth's Master's of Fine Arts thesis exhibition "Sacred Industry" is on display now through Sept. 10 at the Moss Thorns-Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus.

He said he doesn't create anything he wouldn't feel comfortable having in his own living room.

He questions such establishments as religion and government in his work.

He said he hopes people will come to his show and take a little time to disconnect from busy digital lives.

Museum patrons spend an average of 15 to 20 seconds per painting, he said.&nbsp;

"That's on me as an artist to create pieces that are going to have to draw you in and captivate you and make you go in for a closer look, so that you forget about your cellphone for five minutes or 15 minutes," he said. "I want things that are exciting and that are visually interesting and engaging. 

"At the end of the night, whether you deem it a positive engagement or a negative engagement, as long as I'm getting those gears in your brain turning and your thinking about it ...

"Instead of hooking your Bluetooth up to the radio and playing the Beatles on Spotify on your way home, if you're thinking about me, that's a win for what I want to do."

Heimsoth will graduate in December and hopes to keep sculpting, showing and selling his work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630351391916.jpeg" alt="Joshua Brooks Heimsoth is exhibiting his Master's of Fine Arts thesis show&nbsp;through Sept. 10. at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus." />
 <figcaption>Joshua Brooks Heimsoth is exhibiting his Master's of Fine Arts thesis show&nbsp;through Sept. 10. at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostJoshua Brooks Heimsoth learned to weld on the farm he grew up on near Cole Camp, Mo.He uses those skills today in his art that the from sleek modern sculptures to industrial steam-punk pieces.He uses found objects, such as an old vanity. He also fabricates pieces from the ground up using ceramic and steel. Many of his pieces include electric light or some kind of powered movement.Heimsoth's Master's of Fine Arts thesis exhibition "Sacred Industry" is on display now through Sept. 10 at the Moss Thorns-Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630353357385.jpeg" alt="Joshua Heimsoth with one of his art pieces, "St. Marky Z," at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art." />
 <figcaption>Joshua Heimsoth with one of his art pieces, "St. Marky Z," at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art.</figcaption>
 </figure>He said he doesn't create anything he wouldn't feel comfortable having in his own living room.He questions such establishments as religion and government in his work.He said he hopes people will come to his show and take a little time to disconnect from busy digital lives.Museum patrons spend an average of 15 to 20 seconds per painting, he said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630353539480.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"That's on me as an artist to create pieces that are going to have to draw you in and captivate you and make you go in for a closer look, so that you forget about your cellphone for five minutes or 15 minutes," he said. "I want things that are exciting and that are visually interesting and engaging. "At the end of the night, whether you deem it a positive engagement or a negative engagement, as long as I'm getting those gears in your brain turning and your thinking about it ..."Instead of hooking your Bluetooth up to the radio and playing the Beatles on Spotify on your way home, if you're thinking about me, that's a win for what I want to do."Heimsoth will graduate in December and hopes to keep sculpting, showing and selling his work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630353581363.jpeg" alt=""It's the Best time to be Alive" by Joshua Heimsoth" />
 <figcaption>"It's the Best time to be Alive" by Joshua Heimsoth</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630353613435.jpeg" alt=""Commissioner Silva's Personal Shrine"&nbsp;by Joshua Heimsoth" />
 <figcaption>"Commissioner Silva's Personal Shrine"&nbsp;by Joshua Heimsoth</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630353638794.jpeg" alt=""Do Antisemites go to Heaven" by Joshua Heimsoth" />
 <figcaption>"Do Antisemites go to Heaven" by Joshua Heimsoth</figcaption>
 </figure>

Artist seeks to get patron's 'brains turning' at Moss-Thorns exhibit

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has released data on the number of staff members who are vaccinated in nursing homes across the state.

Good Samaritan in Hays ranked the highest in Ellis County with a vaccination rate of 65.2 percent as of Tuesday. KDHE reported Ascension Via Christi Village had a staff vaccination rate of 55.6 percent.

Good Samaritan in Ellis had a 45.5 percent staff vaccination rate.

Some surrounding counties' nursing facilities had even lower staff vaccination rates. Red Bud Village in Plainville had a 38.1 percent staff vaccination rate. Russell Regional Hospital in Russell had a 34.3 percent staff vaccination rate, and Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton had a 28.1 percent staff vaccination rate.

The state's goal is a 90 percent staff vaccination rate across all long-term care facilities in the state, according to a press release issued Friday by the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services.

Only a handful of facilities in the state have reached that benchmark. The state vaccination rate for nursing home staff is&nbsp;58.1 percent per facility.

Kansas is behind the national nursing home staff vaccination rate, which is 61.1 percent.

However, long-term care residents have one of the highest vaccination rates in the state at&nbsp;86.7 percent, according to KDADS.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6f73809c-e16f-4986-b4d2-a269947a6783">President Biden is working on regulations that would require long-term care staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19.</a>

You can see an interactive map of the state by <a href="https://kshealthdata.kdhe.ks.gov/t/BEPHI_COVID-19/views/LTCFVaccineCoverage_16299836209060/Map?%3AshowAppBanner=false&amp;%3Adisplay_count=n&amp;%3AshowVizHome=n&amp;%3Aorigin=viz_share_link&amp;%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y&amp;%3Aembed=y">clicking here</a>. The dashboard will be updated weekly on Fridays.

Area nursing home staff vaccination rates

Ellis County Good Samaritan, Hays —&nbsp;65.2 percent Ascension Via Christi Village, Hays —&nbsp;55.6 percent Good Samaritan, Ellis — 45.5 percent

Rooks County Red Bud Village, Plainville — 38.1 percent Solomon Valley Manor, Stockton — 28.1 percent

Russell County Russell Regional Hospital, Russell — 34.3 percent Trego County Trego Lemke, WaKeeney — 51.7 percent Rush County Locust Grove Village, LaCrosse — 65.2 percent

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630435004230.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Kansas Department of Health and Environment has released data on the number of staff members who are vaccinated in nursing homes across the state.Good Samaritan in Hays ranked the highest in Ellis County with a vaccination rate of 65.2 percent as of Tuesday. KDHE reported Ascension Via Christi Village had a staff vaccination rate of 55.6 percent.Good Samaritan in Ellis had a 45.5 percent staff vaccination rate.Some surrounding counties' nursing facilities had even lower staff vaccination rates. Red Bud Village in Plainville had a 38.1 percent staff vaccination rate. Russell Regional Hospital in Russell had a 34.3 percent staff vaccination rate, and Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton had a 28.1 percent staff vaccination rate.The state's goal is a 90 percent staff vaccination rate across all long-term care facilities in the state, according to a press release issued Friday by the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services.Only a handful of facilities in the state have reached that benchmark. The state vaccination rate for nursing home staff is&nbsp;58.1 percent per facility.Kansas is behind the national nursing home staff vaccination rate, which is 61.1 percent.However, long-term care residents have one of the highest vaccination rates in the state at&nbsp;86.7 percent, according to KDADS.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6f73809c-e16f-4986-b4d2-a269947a6783">President Biden is working on regulations that would require long-term care staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19.</a>You can see an interactive map of the state by <a href="https://kshealthdata.kdhe.ks.gov/t/BEPHI_COVID-19/views/LTCFVaccineCoverage_16299836209060/Map?%3AshowAppBanner=false&amp;%3Adisplay_count=n&amp;%3AshowVizHome=n&amp;%3Aorigin=viz_share_link&amp;%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y&amp;%3Aembed=y">clicking here</a>. The dashboard will be updated weekly on Fridays.<h2>Area nursing home staff vaccination rates</h2>Ellis County Good Samaritan, Hays —&nbsp;65.2 percent Ascension Via Christi Village, Hays —&nbsp;55.6 percent Good Samaritan, Ellis — 45.5 percentRooks County Red Bud Village, Plainville — 38.1 percent Solomon Valley Manor, Stockton — 28.1 percent Russell County Russell Regional Hospital, Russell — 34.3 percent Trego County Trego Lemke, WaKeeney — 51.7 percent Rush County Locust Grove Village, LaCrosse — 65.2 percent

Local nursing homes behind state goal for staff COVID vaccinations

By HILLARY GAVAN <a href="https://www.beloitdailynews.com/news/local-news/memorial-concert-planned-for-frank-renato-premezzi/article_11a1ab43-ccb8-5b6c-91cd-e4df1ebfe058.html">Beloit (Wis.) Daily News</a>

BELOIT, Wis. — He was called a master 
teacher. He was charismatic, generous and filled with talent. He not 
only developed pianists, but developed people.

Beloit
 College Emeritus Professor of Music Frank Renato Premezzi passed away 
in May and a memorial concert will be held in his honor at 7 p.m. on 
Sept. 8. at First Congregational Church, 801 Bushnell St.

Premezzi’s
 teachers included Isidor Philipp, Orazio Frugoni, Beveridge Webster and
 Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli. Awarded scholarships at the Eastman and 
Juilliard schools, he received bachelor and master of science degrees at
 Juilliard, where he taught for two years in the pre-college division. 
Among other awards and honors, he won a Fulbright Scholarship and 
renewal to Italy.

He gave concerts and recitals around the
 world, and performed as a soloist with major symphony orchestras 
including the New York Philharmonic, the St. Louis Symphony, the Santa 
Cecilia Orchestra of Rome, the San Carlo Orchestra of Naples, The Teatro
 Comunale Orchestra of Bologna, the Palazzo Pitti Orchestra of Florence 
and many others.

He taught at 
Stephens College, Fort Hays Kansas State University, Southern Illinois 
University and at Beloit College from 1971 to 2014.

He
 was a visiting artist at Madison School of Music, and on occasion, 
adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Rock County, Rock 
Valley College, Rockford College and Mount Scenario College. He 
presented master classes at colleges and universities as well as at 
conservatories in Paris, London and the People’s Republic of China.

For
 Beloit College Retired Music Professor Emeritus and Adjunct at the 
Center for Entrepreneurship Ian Nie, Premezzi was a teacher, colleague 
and friend with international fame and pianistic prowess.

“In the first 10 years of his tenure, he had the tightest group of young pianists I’ve ever experienced,” Nie said.

Nie
 recalled Premezzi wowing crowds in China who would always remember him 
when he would return multiple times over the years. Nie not only enjoyed
 traveling, performing and enjoying the company of Premezzi but saw him 
as a mentor who influenced his music and how he shared it.

“He
 helped define the type of teacher I became with consideration of each 
student as a singular entity. Through him I realized each individual has
 his or own needs which must be addressed individually,” Nie said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630261436612.jpeg" alt="Frank Renato Premezzi / Courtesy Beloit Daily News" />
 <figcaption>Frank Renato Premezzi / Courtesy Beloit Daily News</figcaption>
 </figure>By HILLARY GAVAN <a href="https://www.beloitdailynews.com/news/local-news/memorial-concert-planned-for-frank-renato-premezzi/article_11a1ab43-ccb8-5b6c-91cd-e4df1ebfe058.html">Beloit (Wis.) Daily News</a>BELOIT, Wis. — He was called a master 
teacher. He was charismatic, generous and filled with talent. He not 
only developed pianists, but developed people.Beloit
 College Emeritus Professor of Music Frank Renato Premezzi passed away 
in May and a memorial concert will be held in his honor at 7 p.m. on 
Sept. 8. at First Congregational Church, 801 Bushnell St.Premezzi’s
 teachers included Isidor Philipp, Orazio Frugoni, Beveridge Webster and
 Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli. Awarded scholarships at the Eastman and 
Juilliard schools, he received bachelor and master of science degrees at
 Juilliard, where he taught for two years in the pre-college division. 
Among other awards and honors, he won a Fulbright Scholarship and 
renewal to Italy.He gave concerts and recitals around the
 world, and performed as a soloist with major symphony orchestras 
including the New York Philharmonic, the St. Louis Symphony, the Santa 
Cecilia Orchestra of Rome, the San Carlo Orchestra of Naples, The Teatro
 Comunale Orchestra of Bologna, the Palazzo Pitti Orchestra of Florence 
and many others.He taught at 
Stephens College, Fort Hays Kansas State University, Southern Illinois 
University and at Beloit College from 1971 to 2014.He
 was a visiting artist at Madison School of Music, and on occasion, 
adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Rock County, Rock 
Valley College, Rockford College and Mount Scenario College. He 
presented master classes at colleges and universities as well as at 
conservatories in Paris, London and the People’s Republic of China.For
 Beloit College Retired Music Professor Emeritus and Adjunct at the 
Center for Entrepreneurship Ian Nie, Premezzi was a teacher, colleague 
and friend with international fame and pianistic prowess.“In the first 10 years of his tenure, he had the tightest group of young pianists I’ve ever experienced,” Nie said.Nie
 recalled Premezzi wowing crowds in China who would always remember him 
when he would return multiple times over the years. Nie not only enjoyed
 traveling, performing and enjoying the company of Premezzi but saw him 
as a mentor who influenced his music and how he shared it.“He
 helped define the type of teacher I became with consideration of each 
student as a singular entity. Through him I realized each individual has
 his or own needs which must be addressed individually,” Nie said.Republished with permission

Memorial concert planned for former FHSU music professor

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau There were no surprises in the recently released 2020 census numbers that will be used to draw new lines for congressional and state senate and house districts. Kansas grew, but at a rate slower than the nation overall. Rural areas largely saw their populations dwindle while metros swelled, an ongoing trend since the industrial revolution. Overall, rural parts of the country lost 226,000 people in the past decade to urban and suburban places, which grew by more than 20 million. As a state, we’re slightly older and more diverse, overall. Beyond the obvious demographic shifts, the census numbers mean political power is shifting, too. This is worrisome not because the issues facing cities and towns are all that different from the challenges across the countryside. It’s because far too often a policy or program that works in one area is a total bust when expanded to another. Many of the challenges we face across the state are the same, from housing and childcare to taxes and labor shortages. The solutions to these are nearly as varied as the more than 2.9 million people who call Kansas home. But with fewer folks walking in the statehouse or the halls of Congress with rural backgrounds means there’s less understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist in communities where the nearest neighbor might be a quarter-mile or more away. The rules and regulations that make sense in cities where people interact with one another more frequently are often ineffective or even counterproductive in less populated areas. While the proportional political power flowing to cities carries real risks for those of us who enjoy rural lifestyles, we still have a lot of capacity to shape the outcomes of laws. I don’t expect our big city citizens to wield their growing power over their country cousins with malice. But there’s only so many issues we have the time to fully grasp. Self-interest being what it is, we usually don’t stray too far outside our immediate neighborhood when trying to solve a problem. That’s why it’s so important to tell the story of farming and ranching, the benefits of rural living and, most importantly, why people who do none of those should listen. They’re not going to agree with you on everything, but through conversations with friends, family and business partners, greater understanding of rural issues and their solutions is possible. It’s also a good opportunity to talk about the quality of life available in the country and small towns. Most aren’t looking to give up their lives in the city, but in a world where it’s increasingly common to work anywhere, the choice of where workers live is everywhere. That means one of the primary drivers of urbanization is perhaps at its weakest point since the steam engine was invented. Technology alone won’t undo centuries of change quickly, but it’s certainly a welcome tool in reviving rural living. Not only does this mean access to jobs that allow people to stay in rural areas, but benefits like clean air and water, less stress and traffic and more privacy are certainly going to be enticing to some city folks as well. By the time the next census comes around, there’s a real chance the story will be about the dawning of the next rural migration.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau There were no surprises in the recently released 2020 census numbers that will be used to draw new lines for congressional and state senate and house districts. Kansas grew, but at a rate slower than the nation overall. Rural areas largely saw their populations dwindle while metros swelled, an ongoing trend since the industrial revolution. Overall, rural parts of the country lost 226,000 people in the past decade to urban and suburban places, which grew by more than 20 million. As a state, we’re slightly older and more diverse, overall. Beyond the obvious demographic shifts, the census numbers mean political power is shifting, too. This is worrisome not because the issues facing cities and towns are all that different from the challenges across the countryside. It’s because far too often a policy or program that works in one area is a total bust when expanded to another. Many of the challenges we face across the state are the same, from housing and childcare to taxes and labor shortages. The solutions to these are nearly as varied as the more than 2.9 million people who call Kansas home. But with fewer folks walking in the statehouse or the halls of Congress with rural backgrounds means there’s less understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist in communities where the nearest neighbor might be a quarter-mile or more away. The rules and regulations that make sense in cities where people interact with one another more frequently are often ineffective or even counterproductive in less populated areas. While the proportional political power flowing to cities carries real risks for those of us who enjoy rural lifestyles, we still have a lot of capacity to shape the outcomes of laws. I don’t expect our big city citizens to wield their growing power over their country cousins with malice. But there’s only so many issues we have the time to fully grasp. Self-interest being what it is, we usually don’t stray too far outside our immediate neighborhood when trying to solve a problem. That’s why it’s so important to tell the story of farming and ranching, the benefits of rural living and, most importantly, why people who do none of those should listen. They’re not going to agree with you on everything, but through conversations with friends, family and business partners, greater understanding of rural issues and their solutions is possible. It’s also a good opportunity to talk about the quality of life available in the country and small towns. Most aren’t looking to give up their lives in the city, but in a world where it’s increasingly common to work anywhere, the choice of where workers live is everywhere. That means one of the primary drivers of urbanization is perhaps at its weakest point since the steam engine was invented. Technology alone won’t undo centuries of change quickly, but it’s certainly a welcome tool in reviving rural living. Not only does this mean access to jobs that allow people to stay in rural areas, but benefits like clean air and water, less stress and traffic and more privacy are certainly going to be enticing to some city folks as well. By the time the next census comes around, there’s a real chance the story will be about the dawning of the next rural migration."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: The next rural migration

What has worked and what to see in the future,&nbsp;beef&nbsp;cattle outlook, starting newly arrived calves on feed, and the comparison of multiple castration methods in&nbsp;stocker&nbsp;cattle are among topics planned for 2021 Kansas State University&nbsp;Beef&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Field&nbsp;Day&nbsp;on Thursday, Sept. 30. The conference will be hosted at the KSU&nbsp;Beef&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Unit.&nbsp;

“We believe this year’s program will be an exceptional one,” says Dale Blasi, K-State Animal Sciences and Industry professor and&nbsp;beef&nbsp;cattle extension specialist. “The collective wisdom and experience of many producers and university professors will shed a lot of good information as our industry moves into the future.”&nbsp;

The&nbsp;day&nbsp;will start with a welcome at 9:30 a.m. and will conclude around 5 p.m.&nbsp;

Topics for this year’s agenda include: &nbsp;&nbsp;

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/2019/11/1573141354634.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>What has worked and what to see in the future,&nbsp;beef&nbsp;cattle outlook, starting newly arrived calves on feed, and the comparison of multiple castration methods in&nbsp;stocker&nbsp;cattle are among topics planned for 2021 Kansas State University&nbsp;Beef&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Field&nbsp;Day&nbsp;on Thursday, Sept. 30. The conference will be hosted at the KSU&nbsp;Beef&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Unit.&nbsp;“We believe this year’s program will be an exceptional one,” says Dale Blasi, K-State Animal Sciences and Industry professor and&nbsp;beef&nbsp;cattle extension specialist. “The collective wisdom and experience of many producers and university professors will shed a lot of good information as our industry moves into the future.”&nbsp;The&nbsp;day&nbsp;will start with a welcome at 9:30 a.m. and will conclude around 5 p.m.&nbsp;Topics for this year’s agenda include: &nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>What Has Worked for Us and What We See into the Future&nbsp;</li><li>Beef Cattle Outlook&nbsp;</li><li>Can You Manage BRD and Coccidiosis Effectively with Receiving Rations for Backgrounding&nbsp;Stockers&nbsp;</li><li>A Novel Approach to Starting Newly Arrived Calves on Feed&nbsp;</li><li>Comparison of Multiple Castration Methods in&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Cattle&nbsp; Registration is $25 and due Sept. 10. Walk-in registration is available for $35. To register go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/events/stocker-conference.html" target="_blank">asi.ksu.edu/stockerfieldday</a>. For more information, contact Lois Schreiner at 785-532-1267 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lschrein@ksu.edu" target="_blank">lschrein@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>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: Beef Stocker Field Day is this month

SHERMAN COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 6 p.m. Tuesday in Sherman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Ford F250 driven by Hazen C. Deeds, 29, Goodland, was northbound on County Road 19 one mile west of Kansas 27 Highway.

The driver failed to yield at the sign at County Road 69.

A westbound 2012 Chevy Silverado driven by Randy D. Jensen, 59, Goodland, struck the Ford on the driver's side.

EMS transported Jensen to the hospital in Goodland. Deeds was not injured. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

SHERMAN COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 6 p.m. Tuesday in Sherman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Ford F250 driven by Hazen C. Deeds, 29, Goodland, was northbound on County Road 19 one mile west of Kansas 27 Highway.The driver failed to yield at the sign at County Road 69.A westbound 2012 Chevy Silverado driven by Randy D. Jensen, 59, Goodland, struck the Ford on the driver's side.EMS transported Jensen to the hospital in Goodland. Deeds was not injured. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after pickups collide

(Washington, D.C., August 31, 2021)&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined a group of over 30 senators in sending a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hassan.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Afghanistan%20and%20GWOT%20Veterans%20Letter%20to%20Sec%20McDonough%20FINAL%208.31.21.pdf" target="_blank">bipartisan letter</a>&nbsp;to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) urging its leaders to quickly provide outreach to veterans of the Global War on Terrorism on available mental health services and resources. Their call for action comes as reports find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/afghanistan-calls-to-veterans-suicide-hotlines-are-up-since-fall-of-kabul" target="_blank">calls to veterans’ suicide hotlines have increased</a>&nbsp;since the fall of Kabul earlier this month. The Senators’ letter highlights the brave men and women who served in Afghanistan.

“We write in light of the recent events in Afghanistan to encourage the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to quickly develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services,”&nbsp;wrote the Senators. “More than two million veterans served during the Global War on Terrorism, including more than 800,000 in Afghanistan, and these service members deserve and earned the support that they need. We appreciate the VA’s commitment to providing mental health services to all veterans and ask, in light of the current situation, that the Department accelerate its efforts to provide resources – to veterans of these recent conflicts.”

In their letter, the Senators note that veterans between the ages of 18 to 34 have the highest suicide rate among former service members and that many veterans do not use the Veterans Health Administration services which provides many mental health resources geared at preventing suicide among service members.&nbsp;

“For this reason, we ask that the VA develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services. This plan must proactively contact veterans in the coming months through means including, but not be limited to: digital correspondence, social media, phone calls, and text messages,”&nbsp;the Senators continued. “Furthermore, VA's outreach should consist of detailed information on clinical mental health services and community-based support systems, such as Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA Vet Centers. For example, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is just one of many VSOs that helps connect veterans to services critical to mental health and overall well-being.”

In addition to Senator Marshall, co-signers of the letter include Senators Hassan (D-NH), Ernst (R-IA), Cassidy (R-LA), Warnock (D-GA), Baldwin (D-WI), Bennet (D-CO), Braun (R-IN), Cantwell (D-WA), Capito (R-WV), Casey (D-PA), Collins (R-ME), Cortez Masto (D-NV),&nbsp; Crapo (R-ID), Daines (R-MT), Durbin (D-IL), Grassley (R-IA), Hickenlooper (D-CO), Hoeven (R-ND), Kaine (D-VA), Kelly (D-AZ), Klobuchar (D-MN), Leahy (D-VT), Peters (D-MI), Portman (R-OH), Reed (D-RI), Risch (R-ID), Rosen (D-NV), Schatz (D-HI),&nbsp;Shaheen (D-NH),&nbsp;Smith (D-MN), Thune (R-SD), Van Hollen (D-MD), Warner (D-VA), and Wyden (D-OR).

<a href="https://www.hassan.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Afghanistan%20and%20GWOT%20Veterans%20Letter%20to%20Sec%20McDonough%20FINAL%208.31.21.pdf" target="_blank">Full Text of Letter:</a>

We write in light of the recent events in Afghanistan to encourage the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to quickly develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services. More than two million veterans served during the Global War on Terrorism, including more than 800,000 in Afghanistan, and these service members deserve and earned the support that they need. We appreciate the VA’s commitment to providing mental health services to all veterans and ask, in light of the current situation, that the Department accelerate its efforts to provide resources – to veterans of these recent conflicts.

The VA recently sent out correspondence with digital links to veterans encouraging them to seek help if they are experiencing distress related to their service in Afghanistan or if they need any mental health services. This is a first step, but the VA should go beyond this initial outreach. As you know, veterans aged 18 to 34 have the highest suicide rate among former service members.[1] Beyond that, the VA’s National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report repeatedly indicates that veterans, including those who served in Afghanistan, do not use Veterans Health Administration services aimed at decreasing suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.

For this reason, we ask that the VA develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services. This plan must proactively contact veterans in the coming months through means including, but not be limited to: digital correspondence, social media, phone calls, and text messages. Furthermore, VA's outreach should consist of detailed information on clinical mental health services and community-based support systems, such as Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA Vet Centers. For example, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is just one of many VSOs that helps connect veterans to services critical to mental health and overall well-being. Emphasis should also be placed on pairing veterans with localized support and resources.

As a country, we must keep the physical and mental wellbeing of our veterans at the forefront of our minds and efforts. Especially given the constant media coverage and disturbing images coming out of Afghanistan, we ask for your commitment to developing a comprehensive outreach plan for our Global War on Terrorism, and specifically our Afghanistan veterans. We must fulfill our obligation to those who served and never forget their sacrifices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619021116109.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>(Washington, D.C., August 31, 2021)&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined a group of over 30 senators in sending a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hassan.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Afghanistan%20and%20GWOT%20Veterans%20Letter%20to%20Sec%20McDonough%20FINAL%208.31.21.pdf" target="_blank">bipartisan letter</a>&nbsp;to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) urging its leaders to quickly provide outreach to veterans of the Global War on Terrorism on available mental health services and resources. Their call for action comes as reports find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/afghanistan-calls-to-veterans-suicide-hotlines-are-up-since-fall-of-kabul" target="_blank">calls to veterans’ suicide hotlines have increased</a>&nbsp;since the fall of Kabul earlier this month. The Senators’ letter highlights the brave men and women who served in Afghanistan.“We write in light of the recent events in Afghanistan to encourage the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to quickly develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services,”&nbsp;wrote the Senators. “More than two million veterans served during the Global War on Terrorism, including more than 800,000 in Afghanistan, and these service members deserve and earned the support that they need. We appreciate the VA’s commitment to providing mental health services to all veterans and ask, in light of the current situation, that the Department accelerate its efforts to provide resources – to veterans of these recent conflicts.”In their letter, the Senators note that veterans between the ages of 18 to 34 have the highest suicide rate among former service members and that many veterans do not use the Veterans Health Administration services which provides many mental health resources geared at preventing suicide among service members.&nbsp;“For this reason, we ask that the VA develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services. This plan must proactively contact veterans in the coming months through means including, but not be limited to: digital correspondence, social media, phone calls, and text messages,”&nbsp;the Senators continued. “Furthermore, VA's outreach should consist of detailed information on clinical mental health services and community-based support systems, such as Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA Vet Centers. For example, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is just one of many VSOs that helps connect veterans to services critical to mental health and overall well-being.”In addition to Senator Marshall, co-signers of the letter include Senators Hassan (D-NH), Ernst (R-IA), Cassidy (R-LA), Warnock (D-GA), Baldwin (D-WI), Bennet (D-CO), Braun (R-IN), Cantwell (D-WA), Capito (R-WV), Casey (D-PA), Collins (R-ME), Cortez Masto (D-NV),&nbsp; Crapo (R-ID), Daines (R-MT), Durbin (D-IL), Grassley (R-IA), Hickenlooper (D-CO), Hoeven (R-ND), Kaine (D-VA), Kelly (D-AZ), Klobuchar (D-MN), Leahy (D-VT), Peters (D-MI), Portman (R-OH), Reed (D-RI), Risch (R-ID), Rosen (D-NV), Schatz (D-HI),&nbsp;Shaheen (D-NH),&nbsp;Smith (D-MN), Thune (R-SD), Van Hollen (D-MD), Warner (D-VA), and Wyden (D-OR).<a href="https://www.hassan.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Afghanistan%20and%20GWOT%20Veterans%20Letter%20to%20Sec%20McDonough%20FINAL%208.31.21.pdf" target="_blank">Full Text of Letter:</a>Dear Secretary McDonough:We write in light of the recent events in Afghanistan to encourage the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to quickly develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services. More than two million veterans served during the Global War on Terrorism, including more than 800,000 in Afghanistan, and these service members deserve and earned the support that they need. We appreciate the VA’s commitment to providing mental health services to all veterans and ask, in light of the current situation, that the Department accelerate its efforts to provide resources – to veterans of these recent conflicts.The VA recently sent out correspondence with digital links to veterans encouraging them to seek help if they are experiencing distress related to their service in Afghanistan or if they need any mental health services. This is a first step, but the VA should go beyond this initial outreach. As you know, veterans aged 18 to 34 have the highest suicide rate among former service members.[1] Beyond that, the VA’s National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report repeatedly indicates that veterans, including those who served in Afghanistan, do not use Veterans Health Administration services aimed at decreasing suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.For this reason, we ask that the VA develop a comprehensive outreach plan to connect Afghanistan and Global War on Terrorism veterans to VA benefits and services. This plan must proactively contact veterans in the coming months through means including, but not be limited to: digital correspondence, social media, phone calls, and text messages. Furthermore, VA's outreach should consist of detailed information on clinical mental health services and community-based support systems, such as Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA Vet Centers. For example, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is just one of many VSOs that helps connect veterans to services critical to mental health and overall well-being. Emphasis should also be placed on pairing veterans with localized support and resources.As a country, we must keep the physical and mental wellbeing of our veterans at the forefront of our minds and efforts. Especially given the constant media coverage and disturbing images coming out of Afghanistan, we ask for your commitment to developing a comprehensive outreach plan for our Global War on Terrorism, and specifically our Afghanistan veterans. We must fulfill our obligation to those who served and never forget their sacrifices.

Sen. Marshall calls on VA to address impact of Afghanistan withdrawal 

TOPEKA&nbsp;– To encourage vaccinations and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Governor Laura Kelly and&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;Health today launched a new vaccine incentive program. All newly vaccinated Kansans 12+ are eligible to receive $50 per dose, $100 total.

“Getting every eligible Kansan vaccinated is critical to our efforts to slow the spread of the virus, protect our businesses, and keep kids in school,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“This incentive program is a another tool to support our ongoing vaccine efforts. I want to thank&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;officials for their partnership and their commitment to the communities they serve.”

“Since day one of this pandemic,&nbsp;Dillons’ most urgent priority has been the health and safety of our associates, customers, and communities,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Steve Dreher,&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;Stores Division President. “Together with Governor Kelly, we are pleased to extend this incentive as a means to inspire more individuals to get vaccinated and help our Kansas communities move forward.”

Vaccines will be administered in the pharmacies of the select&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;locations listed below. Gift cards will be available on a first-come first-serve basis; Kansans who receive their vaccines at the select&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;locations listed below will receive a form and a pre-stamped envelope after each dose. Once KDHE receives the completed form, a $50 Visa gift card will be mailed to the mailing address provided in the form, while gift card supplies last.

COVID-19 vaccines are provided at no cost; if recipients have insurance they should present their insurance card, but if recipients do not have insurance the vaccine will still be provided at no cost. All Kansans 12+ are eligible for the $100 incentive. No appointment required.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– To encourage vaccinations and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Governor Laura Kelly and&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;Health today launched a new vaccine incentive program. All newly vaccinated Kansans 12+ are eligible to receive $50 per dose, $100 total.“Getting every eligible Kansan vaccinated is critical to our efforts to slow the spread of the virus, protect our businesses, and keep kids in school,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“This incentive program is a another tool to support our ongoing vaccine efforts. I want to thank&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;officials for their partnership and their commitment to the communities they serve.”“Since day one of this pandemic,&nbsp;Dillons’ most urgent priority has been the health and safety of our associates, customers, and communities,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Steve Dreher,&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;Stores Division President. “Together with Governor Kelly, we are pleased to extend this incentive as a means to inspire more individuals to get vaccinated and help our Kansas communities move forward.”Vaccines will be administered in the pharmacies of the select&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;locations listed below. Gift cards will be available on a first-come first-serve basis; Kansans who receive their vaccines at the select&nbsp;Dillons&nbsp;locations listed below will receive a form and a pre-stamped envelope after each dose. Once KDHE receives the completed form, a $50 Visa gift card will be mailed to the mailing address provided in the form, while gift card supplies last.COVID-19 vaccines are provided at no cost; if recipients have insurance they should present their insurance card, but if recipients do not have insurance the vaccine will still be provided at no cost. All Kansans 12+ are eligible for the $100 incentive. No appointment required.Dillons&nbsp;locationsEllis County:<ul>
 <li>1902 Vine Street, Hays, KS 67601</li><li>517 West 27th&nbsp;Street, Hays, KS 67601</li>
 </ul>Saline County:<ul>
 <li>2350 Plane Avenue, Salina, KS 67401</li><li>1235 East Cloud Street, Salina, KS 67401</li><li>1201 West Crawford, Salina, KS 67401</li>
 </ul>Thomas County:<ul>
 <li>1605 South Range Avenue, Colby, KS 67701</li>
 </ul>Barton County:<ul>
 <li>4107 10th&nbsp;Street, Great Bend, KS 67530</li>
 </ul>

Kansans vaccinated at select Dillons eligible for $100

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with optometrist, Nicholas Mondero from Family Eye Care share details about the upcoming Business Showcase Challenge.

<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="Hays Chamber‘s next business showcase begins Friday" 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=yixbx-10cb0b8-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with optometrist, Nicholas Mondero from Family Eye Care share details about the upcoming Business Showcase Challenge.<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: Hays Chamber‘s next business showcase begins Friday

🏈 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

There’s a lot of talk right now about a four-day work week, both globally and here in the United States. In Iceland, over 80% of the workforce now has the four-day work week as an option, and the concept is catching on. Spain, New Zealand and Japan are giving it a shot, and a California congressman recently introduced legislation to make the 4-day work week happen here at home.

Could America be next? Not so fast, folks.&nbsp;

What Exactly is the 4-Day Work Week?&nbsp;

A four-day work week means people are working 32- to 36-hour weeks (maybe even less)—not full 40-hour weeks. That makes this concept different from shift work, where people work fewer days but still fit 40 hours into the work week. With a four-day work week, you’re guaranteed a three-day weekend&nbsp;every week.&nbsp;And did I mention that the pay doesn’t decrease? That’s right, you still get the same salary or hourly pay as if you’re working a full five days.

You might be saying, “You had me at three-day weekend!”&nbsp;Or maybe you’re wondering how productive people can be if they’re only working four days. Apparently, a four-day work week can make&nbsp;some&nbsp;people more productive. At least, that’s what studies showed in Iceland, where a number of workers say they feel less stressed and burned out. The study lasted from 2015 to 2019, and cut back on workers’ hours without cutting down on their income.

Those employees said having shorter hours actually improved the quality of their work,&nbsp;and&nbsp;they had the energy to do other things away from their jobs. They reported better overall attitudes, because they were coming to work fully present instead of running on empty.

The more rest you can get, the more likely you’ll be able to avoid feeling&nbsp;overworked. The benefits from this are huge for your mental health&nbsp;and&nbsp;the quality of your work. The less workplace burnout you feel, the more likely you are to stay invested in your job and produce quality results.

If you know you only have four days to get stuff done, you might be more careful about how you schedule your days, too. You might try harder to stay focused and have fewer interruptions. If you’ve been taking it easy and phoning it in on Fridays, a four-day work week might be the kick in the pants you need.

Sure, having a longer weekend might be great. But the truth is a four-day work week gives you less time to get your work done. That’s the harsh reality. If you’re only working four days a week, the pressure is on to jam-pack all you can into those four days. If you’re pressed to cram as much work and as many meetings as possible into only four days’ time, your&nbsp;stress levels&nbsp;could be higher than when you were working a five-day week.

Let’s take a moment to think about customers, too. This is a&nbsp;big&nbsp;issue. After all, five-day work weeks are the norm for most people, so it makes sense that the people you serve would expect it from you and your business. Suddenly having to deal with an extra day where you and your company aren’t available could lead to lots of unsatisfied customers.

Will a four-day work week happen in America?&nbsp;Don’t hold your breath. Traditional work situations may have morphed some since the pandemic, but it would take a lot&nbsp;to convince most businesses to go for this change.

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ken-coleman" target="_blank">Ken Coleman&nbsp;</a>is the nationally syndicated radio host of The Ken Coleman Show and No. 1 national best-selling author. He has been featured in Forbes, appeared on Fox News, Fox Business Network, and the Rachel Ray Show. Since 2014, he has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he offers expert advice to help thousands of people every day discover what they were meant to do and how to land their dream job. Ken’s newest book,&nbsp;FromPaycheck to Purpose, publishes on Nov. 9, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598543766283.jpeg" alt="Ken Coleman" />
 <figcaption>Ken Coleman</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN COLEMANThere’s a lot of talk right now about a four-day work week, both globally and here in the United States. In Iceland, over 80% of the workforce now has the four-day work week as an option, and the concept is catching on. Spain, New Zealand and Japan are giving it a shot, and a California congressman recently introduced legislation to make the 4-day work week happen here at home.Could America be next? Not so fast, folks.&nbsp;What Exactly is the 4-Day Work Week?&nbsp;A four-day work week means people are working 32- to 36-hour weeks (maybe even less)—not full 40-hour weeks. That makes this concept different from shift work, where people work fewer days but still fit 40 hours into the work week. With a four-day work week, you’re guaranteed a three-day weekend&nbsp;every week.&nbsp;And did I mention that the pay doesn’t decrease? That’s right, you still get the same salary or hourly pay as if you’re working a full five days.You might be saying, “You had me at three-day weekend!”&nbsp;Or maybe you’re wondering how productive people can be if they’re only working four days. Apparently, a four-day work week can make&nbsp;some&nbsp;people more productive. At least, that’s what studies showed in Iceland, where a number of workers say they feel less stressed and burned out. The study lasted from 2015 to 2019, and cut back on workers’ hours without cutting down on their income.Those employees said having shorter hours actually improved the quality of their work,&nbsp;and&nbsp;they had the energy to do other things away from their jobs. They reported better overall attitudes, because they were coming to work fully present instead of running on empty.Some of the prosThe more rest you can get, the more likely you’ll be able to avoid feeling&nbsp;overworked. The benefits from this are huge for your mental health&nbsp;and&nbsp;the quality of your work. The less workplace burnout you feel, the more likely you are to stay invested in your job and produce quality results.If you know you only have four days to get stuff done, you might be more careful about how you schedule your days, too. You might try harder to stay focused and have fewer interruptions. If you’ve been taking it easy and phoning it in on Fridays, a four-day work week might be the kick in the pants you need.Some of the cons&nbsp;Sure, having a longer weekend might be great. But the truth is a four-day work week gives you less time to get your work done. That’s the harsh reality. If you’re only working four days a week, the pressure is on to jam-pack all you can into those four days. If you’re pressed to cram as much work and as many meetings as possible into only four days’ time, your&nbsp;stress levels&nbsp;could be higher than when you were working a five-day week.Let’s take a moment to think about customers, too. This is a&nbsp;big&nbsp;issue. After all, five-day work weeks are the norm for most people, so it makes sense that the people you serve would expect it from you and your business. Suddenly having to deal with an extra day where you and your company aren’t available could lead to lots of unsatisfied customers.Will a four-day work week happen in America?&nbsp;Don’t hold your breath. Traditional work situations may have morphed some since the pandemic, but it would take a lot&nbsp;to convince most businesses to go for this change.<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ken-coleman" target="_blank">Ken Coleman&nbsp;</a>is the nationally syndicated radio host of The Ken Coleman Show and No. 1 national best-selling author. He has been featured in Forbes, appeared on Fox News, Fox Business Network, and the Rachel Ray Show. Since 2014, he has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he offers expert advice to help thousands of people every day discover what they were meant to do and how to land their dream job. Ken’s newest book,&nbsp;FromPaycheck to Purpose, publishes on Nov. 9, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

COLEMAN: A 4-day work week? Don’t hold your breath

Hays program to accept applications from Ellis County, Kan., residents

The <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/giving">First Step Housing Project </a>opened officially on Tuesday.

The Hays Chamber of Commerce sponsored a ribbon-cutting at the new transitional housing unit at 607 E. 13th.

Linda Mills, First Call for Help director, said the program could start accepting clients as soon as last Friday.

The remodeled space includes four bedrooms with bunk beds, as well as a shared commons area with a kitchen and laundry facilities.&nbsp; The project can accommodate eight to 12 people.

The program is meant for people who already live in Ellis County, Kan., but are facing homelessness. The program provides a place to stay for parents and children, couples or single women for up to six months.

During that time, participants will save toward rental deposits or pay off utility bills so they can get into their own housing.

Participants must complete an application process, which includes an interview and drug/alcohol screening.

The program will offer a personal finance course for participants.

The program received two donated computers and has more computers on loan from the Kansasworks program.

Mills said the need for housing assistance in the community is great.

"We have a lot of people who are coming into the office asking if we can put them in a house," Mills said. "A friend has kicked them out. ...

"For those people, it's going to mean a lot because it is going to give them a chance to get everything set up, look for their rental. We'll work on budgets with them. We will work on Renting 101. ... There will be supportive services."

The housing unit will not be staffed 24/7, but staff will be on call if they are needed. The housing unit has a keyless code lock, which can be rest when a participant moves out. The housing unit is also equipped with security cameras.

Homelessness often looks different in Hays than in major metro areas, Mills said. Instead of seeing homeless people on the streets, you may see people living in vehicles or doubling up with other families.

"It can be problematic," Mills said. "There are issues of abuse that might come up, sleeping areas in the middle of the room with no privacy. We have a lot of that in the school district. They keep a list of students who are at risk and may already be staying with other people."

The remodel program cost $250,000. The program received federal CARES funds when the nonprofit had to cancel fundraisers in 2020 because of the pandemic.

The rest of the funds came from grants and private donations.&nbsp;Donors contributing $5,000 and more include the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Ellis County Ministerial Alliance, Union Pacific Foundation, United Methodist Foundation, Heartland Community Foundation, Ellis County Bar Association and two anonymous donors. 

The Wonder Women League donated $2,500 toward the matching funds needed for the Schmidt Foundation gift.

The housing project has been in the First Call for Help strategic plan since 2015. First Call for Help bought its current building in 2017. Work began on the remodel for the First Step project in 2020.

The program is still taking monetary donations and has a wish list for items still needed for the housing project on its<a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/operations-manual">&nbsp;website</a>.

Applications for the housing project are available by calling 785-623-2800. You must be a current resident of Ellis County, Kan., to apply.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629915774769.jpeg" alt="From left: Jayne Inlow, Hays Chamber; Marie Froelich, Chamber ambassador and Wonder Women League member; Sarah-Renee Moritz, Hays Chamber ambassador and Wonder Women League member; Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help office assistant/program coordinator; Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber president/CEO; Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist; Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director; Terri Braun, First Call for Help board member; Dennis Wilson,&nbsp;First Call for Help board member; and Callie&nbsp;Kolacny, Chamber ambassador; cut a ribbon Tuesday on the First Step Housing Project at&nbsp;607 E. 13th St. The program will help Ellis County residents who are facing homelessness." />
 <figcaption>From left: Jayne Inlow, Hays Chamber; Marie Froelich, Chamber ambassador and Wonder Women League member; Sarah-Renee Moritz, Hays Chamber ambassador and Wonder Women League member; Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help office assistant/program coordinator; Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber president/CEO; Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist; Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director; Terri Braun, First Call for Help board member; Dennis Wilson,&nbsp;First Call for Help board member; and Callie&nbsp;Kolacny, Chamber ambassador; cut a ribbon Tuesday on the First Step Housing Project at&nbsp;607 E. 13th St. The program will help Ellis County residents who are facing homelessness.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Hays program to accept applications from Ellis County, Kan., residents</h2>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/giving">First Step Housing Project </a>opened officially on Tuesday.The Hays Chamber of Commerce sponsored a ribbon-cutting at the new transitional housing unit at 607 E. 13th.Linda Mills, First Call for Help director, said the program could start accepting clients as soon as last Friday.The remodeled space includes four bedrooms with bunk beds, as well as a shared commons area with a kitchen and laundry facilities.&nbsp; The project can accommodate eight to 12 people.The program is meant for people who already live in Ellis County, Kan., but are facing homelessness. The program provides a place to stay for parents and children, couples or single women for up to six months.During that time, participants will save toward rental deposits or pay off utility bills so they can get into their own housing.Participants must complete an application process, which includes an interview and drug/alcohol screening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629915899259.jpeg" alt="Dennis Wilson, First Call for Help board member, discusses the new First Step Housing Project, with Shuan Musil, city commissioner, and Marie Froelich, Wonder Women League. The three are standing in one of the project's bedrooms. The project can accommodate eight to 12 people." />
 <figcaption>Dennis Wilson, First Call for Help board member, discusses the new First Step Housing Project, with Shuan Musil, city commissioner, and Marie Froelich, Wonder Women League. The three are standing in one of the project's bedrooms. The project can accommodate eight to 12 people.</figcaption>
 </figure>The program will offer a personal finance course for participants.The program received two donated computers and has more computers on loan from the Kansasworks program.Mills said the need for housing assistance in the community is great."We have a lot of people who are coming into the office asking if we can put them in a house," Mills said. "A friend has kicked them out. ..."For those people, it's going to mean a lot because it is going to give them a chance to get everything set up, look for their rental. We'll work on budgets with them. We will work on Renting 101. ... There will be supportive services."The housing unit will not be staffed 24/7, but staff will be on call if they are needed. The housing unit has a keyless code lock, which can be rest when a participant moves out. The housing unit is also equipped with security cameras.Homelessness often looks different in Hays than in major metro areas, Mills said. Instead of seeing homeless people on the streets, you may see people living in vehicles or doubling up with other families."It can be problematic," Mills said. "There are issues of abuse that might come up, sleeping areas in the middle of the room with no privacy. We have a lot of that in the school district. They keep a list of students who are at risk and may already be staying with other people."The remodel program cost $250,000. The program received federal CARES funds when the nonprofit had to cancel fundraisers in 2020 because of the pandemic.The rest of the funds came from grants and private donations.&nbsp;Donors contributing $5,000 and more include the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Ellis County Ministerial Alliance, Union Pacific Foundation, United Methodist Foundation, Heartland Community Foundation, Ellis County Bar Association and two anonymous donors. The Wonder Women League donated $2,500 toward the matching funds needed for the Schmidt Foundation gift.The housing project has been in the First Call for Help strategic plan since 2015. First Call for Help bought its current building in 2017. Work began on the remodel for the First Step project in 2020.The program is still taking monetary donations and has a wish list for items still needed for the housing project on its<a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/operations-manual">&nbsp;website</a>.Applications for the housing project are available by calling 785-623-2800. You must be a current resident of Ellis County, Kan., to apply.

First Step Housing Project open, accepting applications

A government agency you may not have heard of got busy over the weekend monitoring offshore oil and gas operations in the Gulf of Mexico as hurricane Ida blew through. The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement activated its Hurricane Response Team, which works with operators and other government agencies until the storm is no longer a threat. BSEE says by Sunday afternoon personnel were evacuated from 288 production platforms and 11 drilling rigs in the Gulf. Another ten of the so-called dynamically-positioned rigs were moved out of the storm's path. The agency reports operators have shut in more than 95% of crude production and 93% of natural gas production in the Gulf. On the heels of the worst weekly losses since May, crude-oil prices last week posted the best weekly gains in over a year. Both the New York and London benchmarks gained 11%, their biggest weekly gains since June of last year. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson is fetching $59 per barrel, after increasing a dollar and a quarter on Friday. Current prices are $5.50 higher than a week ago, but are $4.75 lower than at the first of the month. Baker Hughes reported 508 active rigs across the U.S., an increase of five oil rigs. Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma was each up one, while the county in Wyoming was up two for the week. The Rig Count in Kansas was up two in west of Wichita at 26 active rigs. The count east of Wichita was unchanged at eight rigs. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway on one lease and about to commence on another in Barton County. Drilling was also underway on a lease in Ellis County. Operators completed two wells in Barton County and one in Ellis County last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 20 newly-completed wells statewide, and 528 so far this year. Kansas regulators approved 33 new drilling permits, 22 east of Wichita and 11 in Western Kansas, &nbsp;including one new drilling location in Ellis County. There are 660 drilling permits in The Sunflower State so far this year. The Energy Information Administration on Wednesday reported a decline in U.S. crude-oil inventories of three million barrels from the previous week. At 432.6 million barrels, current stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said U.S. crude production decreased slightly last week to just over 11.4 million barrels per day. That's down about 5,000 barrels per day from the week before, but nearly half a million barrels higher than the same week last year. The government reported a decline in U.S. crude imports last week, down to 6.2 million barrels per day. Over the last four weeks, imports have averaged nearly nine percent higher than the same period a year ago. The government reports the lowest number of drilled-but-uncompleted (DUC) wells since November of 2017. The decline in DUCs reflects an increase in completions, while new well drilling activity remains low. The Energy Information Administration says that's contributing to increases in Permian Basin production. The report cautions dwindling DUC inventories could limit production growth in coming months. Oil-by-rail shipments were down slightly last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,308 tanker cars hauling petroleum during the week through August 21st. That's down six tankers from the week before and about two percent lower than a year earlier. The spike in crude-oil shipments by rail in Canada continues, increasing 420 tankers over the week before and 43% higher than a year ago. For the second time in two months, an offshore platform operated by Mexico's state-run PEMEX oil company exploded into flames. At least one oil worker died; five others were reported missing. Reuters reports the fire cut the company's supplies of natural gas used for re-injection, and as a result cut its total crude-oil production by 444,000 barrels per day. Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, was hit hard last year as oil prices plummeted. They are turning that around now as crude prices have risen by more than 30% since the start of the year. The value of Saudi Arabia's oil exports more than doubled in June. Official data cited by Reuters show Saudi oil-export income increased 123% to $16.4 billion from a year earlier. Saudi energy giant Aramco has seen its profits jump by nearly four times, boosted by rising prices. The world's biggest oil producer said net income rose by 288% to over $25 BILLION for the second quarter. The seven-year head of Libya's embattled National Oil Corp reportedly left the country on a business trip without approval. That apparent violation of policy has reportedly cost him his job, at least for now.

By JOHN P. TRETBARA government agency you may not have heard of got busy over the weekend monitoring offshore oil and gas operations in the Gulf of Mexico as hurricane Ida blew through. The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement activated its Hurricane Response Team, which works with operators and other government agencies until the storm is no longer a threat. BSEE says by Sunday afternoon personnel were evacuated from 288 production platforms and 11 drilling rigs in the Gulf. Another ten of the so-called dynamically-positioned rigs were moved out of the storm's path. The agency reports operators have shut in more than 95% of crude production and 93% of natural gas production in the Gulf. On the heels of the worst weekly losses since May, crude-oil prices last week posted the best weekly gains in over a year. Both the New York and London benchmarks gained 11%, their biggest weekly gains since June of last year. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson is fetching $59 per barrel, after increasing a dollar and a quarter on Friday. Current prices are $5.50 higher than a week ago, but are $4.75 lower than at the first of the month. Baker Hughes reported 508 active rigs across the U.S., an increase of five oil rigs. Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma was each up one, while the county in Wyoming was up two for the week. The Rig Count in Kansas was up two in west of Wichita at 26 active rigs. The count east of Wichita was unchanged at eight rigs. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway on one lease and about to commence on another in Barton County. Drilling was also underway on a lease in Ellis County. Operators completed two wells in Barton County and one in Ellis County last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 20 newly-completed wells statewide, and 528 so far this year. Kansas regulators approved 33 new drilling permits, 22 east of Wichita and 11 in Western Kansas, &nbsp;including one new drilling location in Ellis County. There are 660 drilling permits in The Sunflower State so far this year. The Energy Information Administration on Wednesday reported a decline in U.S. crude-oil inventories of three million barrels from the previous week. At 432.6 million barrels, current stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said U.S. crude production decreased slightly last week to just over 11.4 million barrels per day. That's down about 5,000 barrels per day from the week before, but nearly half a million barrels higher than the same week last year. The government reported a decline in U.S. crude imports last week, down to 6.2 million barrels per day. Over the last four weeks, imports have averaged nearly nine percent higher than the same period a year ago. The government reports the lowest number of drilled-but-uncompleted (DUC) wells since November of 2017. The decline in DUCs reflects an increase in completions, while new well drilling activity remains low. The Energy Information Administration says that's contributing to increases in Permian Basin production. The report cautions dwindling DUC inventories could limit production growth in coming months. Oil-by-rail shipments were down slightly last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,308 tanker cars hauling petroleum during the week through August 21st. That's down six tankers from the week before and about two percent lower than a year earlier. The spike in crude-oil shipments by rail in Canada continues, increasing 420 tankers over the week before and 43% higher than a year ago. For the second time in two months, an offshore platform operated by Mexico's state-run PEMEX oil company exploded into flames. At least one oil worker died; five others were reported missing. Reuters reports the fire cut the company's supplies of natural gas used for re-injection, and as a result cut its total crude-oil production by 444,000 barrels per day. Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, was hit hard last year as oil prices plummeted. They are turning that around now as crude prices have risen by more than 30% since the start of the year. The value of Saudi Arabia's oil exports more than doubled in June. Official data cited by Reuters show Saudi oil-export income increased 123% to $16.4 billion from a year earlier. Saudi energy giant Aramco has seen its profits jump by nearly four times, boosted by rising prices. The world's biggest oil producer said net income rose by 288% to over $25 BILLION for the second quarter. The seven-year head of Libya's embattled National Oil Corp reportedly left the country on a business trip without approval. That apparent violation of policy has reportedly cost him his job, at least for now.

News From the Oil Patch: Most Gulf production paused ahead of Ida

At the Kansas Emergency Medical Services Association “Honoring Our Own” annual banquet on
Aug. 14, former Ellis County Health Services Director Kerry McCue received the Lifetime
Achievement Award.


McCue was nominated for this award to recognize his outstanding contributions to EMS in Kansas
and the community and patients he served. To be nominated, an individual’s contributions to pre-hospital care must have been consistent and long lasting, representing in effect, a lifetime of
outstanding service to the profession and to the public. To be eligible, one must be a Kansas certified
EMS professional.


"Ellis County wishes to congratulate Mr. McCue on this achievement and thank him once again for his
many years of dedicated service to the Ellis County residents," the county said in a news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630330136615.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis CountyAt the Kansas Emergency Medical Services Association “Honoring Our Own” annual banquet on
Aug. 14, former Ellis County Health Services Director Kerry McCue received the Lifetime
Achievement Award.
McCue was nominated for this award to recognize his outstanding contributions to EMS in Kansas
and the community and patients he served. To be nominated, an individual’s contributions to pre-hospital care must have been consistent and long lasting, representing in effect, a lifetime of
outstanding service to the profession and to the public. To be eligible, one must be a Kansas certified
EMS professional.
"Ellis County wishes to congratulate Mr. McCue on this achievement and thank him once again for his
many years of dedicated service to the Ellis County residents," the county said in a news release.