PLAINVILLE – Rooks County Health Center is now recognized as part of a movement to improve health care for older adults, contributing to an initial goal of 20 percent of all U.S. hospitals and health systems becoming age-friendly. 

As part of the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative that began in 2017, The John A. Hartford Foundation and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, in partnership with the American Hospital Association and the Catholic Health Association of the United States, are helping hospitals and other care settings implement a set of evidence-based interventions specifically designed to improve care for older adults.

In order to achieve recognition as a member of the initiative, RCH staff worked for nearly a year in acquiring the necessary training as well as compiling and submitting extensive data, including submitting a presentation to the American Hospital Association (AHA).

A multi-department group led by Stephanie Bjornstad, RN and RCH Quality Lead, developed a shared assessment that can be viewed by any RCH staff involved in the initiative. This assessment pulls the latest documentation on a particular patient on specific age related interventions from Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Social Services, Pharmacy, Nursing and Dietary departments.

RCH then presented to AHA a plan and measurable goals for the Age-Friendly Health System program and submitted three months of data on the number of patients reviewed through a newly formed Age-Friendly Health System Committee. This committee meets weekly to review these patients. The committee also reviews all swing bed patients admitted to RCH.

This was followed by the implementation of a set of evidence-based interventions designed to improve care for older patients known as the “4Ms” – What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility.

The “4Ms” are a series of practices focused on addressing four essential elements of care for older patients:

· What Matters: Knowing and aligning care with each older adult's specific health outcome goals and care preferences including, but not limited to, end-of-life care, and across settings of care.

· Medication: If medication is necessary, using Age-Friendly medication that do not interfere with What Matters to the older adult, Mobility, or Mentation across settings of care.

· Mentation: Prevent, identify, treat, and manage dementia, depression, and delirium across settings of care.

· Mobility: Ensuring that older adults move safely every day in order to maintain function so they can do What Matters.

The interventions can be tested and adapted by participating in what are called Age-Friendly Health Systems Action Communities. These are collaborative entities comprised of health care teams from all over the country who are committed to sharing data and learning together. All teams strive toward reliably implementing best practices across emergency departments, intensive care units, medical-surgical units, general wards, and primary and specialty care settings.

RCH now joins more than 100 health systems throughout the United States in working to make care for older adults even more tailored to patients’ goals and preferences and consistently of high-quality.

“RCH has always been on the forefront of patient care, and that’s why we chose to participate in this vital effort. We look forward to both sharing our best practices and learning what’s working for others,” said Bjornstad. “The Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative is an important part of Rooks County Health Center’s ongoing effort to provide every older adult with the best care possible.” 

For more information, visit www.ihi.org/agefriendly

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587050349548.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RCHPLAINVILLE – Rooks County Health Center is now recognized as part of a movement to improve health care for older adults, contributing to an initial goal of 20 percent of all U.S. hospitals and health systems becoming age-friendly. As part of the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative that began in 2017, The John A. Hartford Foundation and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, in partnership with the American Hospital Association and the Catholic Health Association of the United States, are helping hospitals and other care settings implement a set of evidence-based interventions specifically designed to improve care for older adults.In order to achieve recognition as a member of the initiative, RCH staff worked for nearly a year in acquiring the necessary training as well as compiling and submitting extensive data, including submitting a presentation to the American Hospital Association (AHA).A multi-department group led by Stephanie Bjornstad, RN and RCH Quality Lead, developed a shared assessment that can be viewed by any RCH staff involved in the initiative. This assessment pulls the latest documentation on a particular patient on specific age related interventions from Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Social Services, Pharmacy, Nursing and Dietary departments.RCH then presented to AHA a plan and measurable goals for the Age-Friendly Health System program and submitted three months of data on the number of patients reviewed through a newly formed Age-Friendly Health System Committee. This committee meets weekly to review these patients. The committee also reviews all swing bed patients admitted to RCH.This was followed by the implementation of a set of evidence-based interventions designed to improve care for older patients known as the “4Ms” – What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility.The “4Ms” are a series of practices focused on addressing four essential elements of care for older patients:· What Matters: Knowing and aligning care with each older adult's specific health outcome goals and care preferences including, but not limited to, end-of-life care, and across settings of care.· Medication: If medication is necessary, using Age-Friendly medication that do not interfere with What Matters to the older adult, Mobility, or Mentation across settings of care.· Mentation: Prevent, identify, treat, and manage dementia, depression, and delirium across settings of care.· Mobility: Ensuring that older adults move safely every day in order to maintain function so they can do What Matters.The interventions can be tested and adapted by participating in what are called Age-Friendly Health Systems Action Communities. These are collaborative entities comprised of health care teams from all over the country who are committed to sharing data and learning together. All teams strive toward reliably implementing best practices across emergency departments, intensive care units, medical-surgical units, general wards, and primary and specialty care settings.RCH now joins more than 100 health systems throughout the United States in working to make care for older adults even more tailored to patients’ goals and preferences and consistently of high-quality.“RCH has always been on the forefront of patient care, and that’s why we chose to participate in this vital effort. We look forward to both sharing our best practices and learning what’s working for others,” said Bjornstad. “The Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative is an important part of Rooks County Health Center’s ongoing effort to provide every older adult with the best care possible.” For more information, visit www.ihi.org/agefriendly

Rooks Co. hospital joins nationwide initiative for elder care

Three-day weather outlook

One of the things I love most about my Extension career is that every day is just a little bit different. Like this past Tuesday, when my day started before 8 with a quick trip to the grocery store to get supplies for a program later in the day. My normal mode of transportation, (bicycle) had to be replaced by our van thanks to early morning showers. But our timing was perfect. As my husband and I were leaving the store, I spotted a cross country cyclist pulling in under the entryway.&nbsp; I smiled and said “Welcome to Kansas.”&nbsp;

For the next 20 minutes we enjoyed learning about our new friends’ cross-country trek that started in Lander, WY, 12 days earlier. Over the course of the next 10 weeks Mike’s plan is to travel east to Richmond, VA, then fly to the west coast and cycle home to Wyoming. We noticed his bike was loaded with camping gear, so we asked where had spent the night. With his late arrival and ensuing storms, he opted for a motel.&nbsp;

If you have traveled along highway 96 you may have noticed the cycling signs which designate we are on the trans-America bike trail. It is exciting for our community of Great Bend to be included on this route. With cycling season upon us, we are sure to see more cross-country cyclists, looking to re-stock their supplies, and get a good night’s rest. Mike was looking forward to buying some fresh veggies and needed some new tubes for his bike tires from our Golden Belt Bicycle shop. He commented how hard it was to find fresh produce early on his trip and how many stickers he encountered in western Kansas!

My husband, John, and I, are active participants on the Be Well Barton County task force. One of our projects has been to develop a campground for cross-country cyclists in the grassy area behind Central Baptist Church. The church installed a bicycle repair station several years ago. Small grants from our Central KS Partnership have been used to repair two picnic tables and provide electrical outlets for cyclists to charge their phones. A kiosk will be added soon that will provide contact information in case of an emergency and a map of services our community offers the cyclists.&nbsp;

We want everyone who visits our communities, to have a positive experience. Each one of us has an opportunity to become engaged in our community and promote the great place we have to live, work and raise a family.&nbsp;

Consider sharing ideas with members of the Be Well Barton County Task force or our Cottonwood Extension District Community Development committee. We would welcome your input. Feel free to give me a call for more information.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension.</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the things I love most about my Extension career is that every day is just a little bit different. Like this past Tuesday, when my day started before 8 with a quick trip to the grocery store to get supplies for a program later in the day. My normal mode of transportation, (bicycle) had to be replaced by our van thanks to early morning showers. But our timing was perfect. As my husband and I were leaving the store, I spotted a cross country cyclist pulling in under the entryway.&nbsp; I smiled and said “Welcome to Kansas.”&nbsp;For the next 20 minutes we enjoyed learning about our new friends’ cross-country trek that started in Lander, WY, 12 days earlier. Over the course of the next 10 weeks Mike’s plan is to travel east to Richmond, VA, then fly to the west coast and cycle home to Wyoming. We noticed his bike was loaded with camping gear, so we asked where had spent the night. With his late arrival and ensuing storms, he opted for a motel.&nbsp;If you have traveled along highway 96 you may have noticed the cycling signs which designate we are on the trans-America bike trail. It is exciting for our community of Great Bend to be included on this route. With cycling season upon us, we are sure to see more cross-country cyclists, looking to re-stock their supplies, and get a good night’s rest. Mike was looking forward to buying some fresh veggies and needed some new tubes for his bike tires from our Golden Belt Bicycle shop. He commented how hard it was to find fresh produce early on his trip and how many stickers he encountered in western Kansas!My husband, John, and I, are active participants on the Be Well Barton County task force. One of our projects has been to develop a campground for cross-country cyclists in the grassy area behind Central Baptist Church. The church installed a bicycle repair station several years ago. Small grants from our Central KS Partnership have been used to repair two picnic tables and provide electrical outlets for cyclists to charge their phones. A kiosk will be added soon that will provide contact information in case of an emergency and a map of services our community offers the cyclists.&nbsp;We want everyone who visits our communities, to have a positive experience. Each one of us has an opportunity to become engaged in our community and promote the great place we have to live, work and raise a family.&nbsp;Consider sharing ideas with members of the Be Well Barton County Task force or our Cottonwood Extension District Community Development committee. We would welcome your input. Feel free to give me a call for more information.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a> &nbsp;

KRUG: Are you engaged in your community?

EDWARDS COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before noon Friday in Edwards County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Dodge Durango driven by&nbsp; Lovena M. Woellhof, 33, Lakin, was eastbound on U.S. 50. fifteen miles west of Kinsley milemarker 154.5.

The Dodge traveled left of center into the westbound lanes and struck axle 2 on a westbound 2012 Peterbilt semi driven by Martin C. Fleming, 65, Pratt.&nbsp; The Dodge continued eastbound, rotated and come to rest on the shoulder of the westbound lanes facing westbound. 

A tire from the Dodge struck the drivers side door of a westbound 2009 Honda CRV driven by Sarah E. Jones, 21, Kansas City.

EMS transported Woellhof to the hospital in Kinsley. Fleming and Jones were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

EDWARDS COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before noon Friday in Edwards County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Dodge Durango driven by&nbsp; Lovena M. Woellhof, 33, Lakin, was eastbound on U.S. 50. fifteen miles west of Kinsley milemarker 154.5.The Dodge traveled left of center into the westbound lanes and struck axle 2 on a westbound 2012 Peterbilt semi driven by Martin C. Fleming, 65, Pratt.&nbsp; The Dodge continued eastbound, rotated and come to rest on the shoulder of the westbound lanes facing westbound. A tire from the Dodge struck the drivers side door of a westbound 2009 Honda CRV driven by Sarah E. Jones, 21, Kansas City.EMS transported Woellhof to the hospital in Kinsley. Fleming and Jones were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after 3-vehicle crash

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5850">Whitney Randall</a>,
 the MIAA Women's Winter Student-Athlete of the Year, will be honored in
 person at the MIAA Awards Celebration, presented by Husch Blackwell, on
 Monday at the Kansas City Music Hall inside Municipal 
Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Mo. The event begins at 6 p.m. and 
will be available to view for free on <a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">The MIAA Network</a>. 
The invitation only event will feature recognition of 2020 Hall of Fame 
class and the 2020-21 MIAA Winter Student-Athletes of the Year, 
presented by Summit Pointe Financial Group. The evening will also 
include announcements for this year's winners of the MIAA SAAC Mentor of
 the Year, the Dr. Bob Boerigter Officiating Award of Excellence and the
 2020-21 MIAA Commissioner's Cup, presented by McCownGordon 
Construction. 
The Women's and Men's Winter Student-Athletes of the Year will be the 
first honorees recognized during the event. Randall will be recognized 
alongside Kizan David of Lincoln University, the Men's Winter 
Student-Athlete of the Year. 
Below is the order of events for the awards celebration… 
-Winter Student-Athletes of the Year 
-Officiating Award of Excellence 
-SAAC Mentor of the Year 
-Commissioners Cup 
-MIAA Hall of Fame

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622842253592.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5850">Whitney Randall</a>,
 the MIAA Women's Winter Student-Athlete of the Year, will be honored in
 person at the MIAA Awards Celebration, presented by Husch Blackwell, on
 Monday at the Kansas City Music Hall inside Municipal 
Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Mo. The event begins at 6 p.m. and 
will be available to view for free on <a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">The MIAA Network</a>. 
The invitation only event will feature recognition of 2020 Hall of Fame 
class and the 2020-21 MIAA Winter Student-Athletes of the Year, 
presented by Summit Pointe Financial Group. The evening will also 
include announcements for this year's winners of the MIAA SAAC Mentor of
 the Year, the Dr. Bob Boerigter Officiating Award of Excellence and the
 2020-21 MIAA Commissioner's Cup, presented by McCownGordon 
Construction. 
The Women's and Men's Winter Student-Athletes of the Year will be the 
first honorees recognized during the event. Randall will be recognized 
alongside Kizan David of Lincoln University, the Men's Winter 
Student-Athlete of the Year. 
Below is the order of events for the awards celebration… 
-Winter Student-Athletes of the Year 
-Officiating Award of Excellence 
-SAAC Mentor of the Year 
-Commissioners Cup 
-MIAA Hall of Fame

FHSU's Randall to be honored at MIAA Awards Celebration

The ongoing lack of available workforce in northwest Kansas continues to impact area businesses, but while many point to a specific
cause for the lack of available workers, the reality is many factors are causing the labor shortage — and there are no quick fixes.

&nbsp;“It’s a problem for
local businesses to find employees,” said Grow Hays Executive Director Doug
Williams. “We have a bad situation with workforce.”

Unemployment numbers released by the Labor Market
Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau
of Labor Statistics showed Ellis County with an unemployment rate of
only 1.9 percent in April, with many northwest Kansas counties coming in under 2 percent
— and some as low as 1.4 percent.

“I’ve always said … there is an assumption in the industry that
says 3 percent of the people really don’t want to work anyway, so when you
are at 1.9 percent, the pickings are getting pretty slim,” Williams said. 

Many economists will point to a 5 percent unemployment
rate — called the natural unemployment rate — as expected in a
healthy economy.

&nbsp;“You are always going
to have some unemployment, but 1.9 percent is not a healthy rate for a
community,” Williams said.

With a rate so low, many businesses in western Kansas have
been significantly impacted.

“We have some businesses that have closed because of labor
issues. We have some businesses that have changed their hours of operation,” he
said. “It’s absolutely a problem locally."

But despite the ongoing debate about the federal enhanced unemployment
benefit, which increased unemployment benefits by $300 a week in response to
the continuing pandemic, as being the primary cause for workforce struggles, Williams said
there is no simple solution that will immediately get more people into the local workforce.

“Like a lot of things, everybody gravitates to what they believe
is the simple problem and solution,” Williams said, pointing to the demand by
some to end the enhanced unemployment benefit. “I don’t think that will have a
major impact on our workforce, even if it is eliminated.”

But for those who are receiving
that benefit, Nigel Soria, senior research economist from the Kansas Department
of Commerce, said additional workplace benefits and increased pay might entice some to enter the workforce.

“I think that is pretty key
for what you are hearing in the news about people being less likely to go to
work because of the additional benefits they might be making on unemployment,”
Soria said. “Essentially, you are having to cover the opportunity cost for the
value of their next best option. For many people right now, that next best
option may be what they are making on unemployment.”

The necessity of covering that
cost can financially impact businesses, but he said business leaders are working to balance worker needs and profitability.

“Ultimately, the goal is to
put people first and help make sure people have what they need to be the best
version of themselves, and I think there is going to be friction,” Soria said. “I
think the right managers are going to do what they can do to see that that
happens.”

But Williams said he
believes the
enhanced unemployment benefit is not a major unemployment factor locally.

“I would argue while there may be some cases of that in Ellis
County, but that is not widespread in our community,” Williams said, noting
workforce concerns were a local issue long before the pandemic.

“I think there are other factors,” he said. 

Hundreds of fewer on-campus students at Fort Hays State
University during the pandemic removed a substantial amount of the available
workforce during the pandemic.

Childcare has also become problematic for many,
Williams said.

He said one daycare center in Hays is booked until
2024, while others having long waiting lists.

“You take a parent that can’t find daycare for a child,”
Williams said. “They have no choice but to stay home with that child. That’s a
person that could be in the workforce, but because of a lack of daycare can’t
be.”

He also noted many people have changed their personal lives due to the pandemic and may still be hesitant to return to the local
workforce. Some have found work-from-home opportunities that find that type
of employment works better for their living situation.

Two-parent households may have found having one
parent stay home with young children outweighs the benefit of working.

Another issue, he said, that has a real impact is the lack of
available housing in Ellis County.

“You can’t recruit people into a community if you don’t have
housing,” Williams said. 

Aging schools may also be driving people away from moving to
Hays.

“We have allowed our facilities to become pretty much out of
date and in disrepair in some cases,” Williams said.

All those factors together and others have created the current workforce shortage.

“I think a lot of little factors make a big difference,”
Williams said. “When you look at the 1.9 percent, it amounts to about 350 people
in our workforce. So you have 350 potential people that by definition, are unemployed
and receiving benefits. That’s not very many.”

He said that presents challenges for existing businesses as
well as economic growth potential.

“When we are trying to recruit organizations to come to our
community, the first thing they look at is workforce,” Williams said. “They
have got to have a workforce, so without one, we have really no chance of
recruiting somebody.”

But even identifying the underlying causes of the labor shortfall, and working to address them, will not fix the problem overnight.

“We have to fix these
things and, unfortunately, they are not quick fixes."

<div><iframe title="Labor concerns continue to plague Kansas businesses" 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=u7ayq-1047f60-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe ongoing lack of available workforce in northwest Kansas continues to impact area businesses, but while many point to a specific
cause for the lack of available workers, the reality is many factors are causing the labor shortage — and there are no quick fixes.&nbsp;“It’s a problem for
local businesses to find employees,” said Grow Hays Executive Director Doug
Williams. “We have a bad situation with workforce.”Unemployment numbers released by the Labor Market
Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau
of Labor Statistics showed Ellis County with an unemployment rate of
only 1.9 percent in April, with many northwest Kansas counties coming in under 2 percent
— and some as low as 1.4 percent.“I’ve always said … there is an assumption in the industry that
says 3 percent of the people really don’t want to work anyway, so when you
are at 1.9 percent, the pickings are getting pretty slim,” Williams said. Many economists will point to a 5 percent unemployment
rate — called the natural unemployment rate — as expected in a
healthy economy.&nbsp;“You are always going
to have some unemployment, but 1.9 percent is not a healthy rate for a
community,” Williams said.With a rate so low, many businesses in western Kansas have
been significantly impacted.“We have some businesses that have closed because of labor
issues. We have some businesses that have changed their hours of operation,” he
said. “It’s absolutely a problem locally."But despite the ongoing debate about the federal enhanced unemployment
benefit, which increased unemployment benefits by $300 a week in response to
the continuing pandemic, as being the primary cause for workforce struggles, Williams said
there is no simple solution that will immediately get more people into the local workforce.“Like a lot of things, everybody gravitates to what they believe
is the simple problem and solution,” Williams said, pointing to the demand by
some to end the enhanced unemployment benefit. “I don’t think that will have a
major impact on our workforce, even if it is eliminated.”<div><iframe title="Diverse factors impacting area unemployment" 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=5sstj-104cc9d-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>But for those who are receiving
that benefit, Nigel Soria, senior research economist from the Kansas Department
of Commerce, said additional workplace benefits and increased pay might entice some to enter the workforce.“I think that is pretty key
for what you are hearing in the news about people being less likely to go to
work because of the additional benefits they might be making on unemployment,”
Soria said. “Essentially, you are having to cover the opportunity cost for the
value of their next best option. For many people right now, that next best
option may be what they are making on unemployment.”The necessity of covering that
cost can financially impact businesses, but he said business leaders are working to balance worker needs and profitability.“Ultimately, the goal is to
put people first and help make sure people have what they need to be the best
version of themselves, and I think there is going to be friction,” Soria said. “I
think the right managers are going to do what they can do to see that that
happens.”But Williams said he
believes the
enhanced unemployment benefit is not a major unemployment factor locally.“I would argue while there may be some cases of that in Ellis
County, but that is not widespread in our community,” Williams said, noting
workforce concerns were a local issue long before the pandemic.“I think there are other factors,” he said. Hundreds of fewer on-campus students at Fort Hays State
University during the pandemic removed a substantial amount of the available
workforce during the pandemic.Childcare has also become problematic for many,
Williams said.He said one daycare center in Hays is booked until
2024, while others having long waiting lists.“You take a parent that can’t find daycare for a child,”
Williams said. “They have no choice but to stay home with that child. That’s a
person that could be in the workforce, but because of a lack of daycare can’t
be.”He also noted many people have changed their personal lives due to the pandemic and may still be hesitant to return to the local
workforce. Some have found work-from-home opportunities that find that type
of employment works better for their living situation.Two-parent households may have found having one
parent stay home with young children outweighs the benefit of working.Another issue, he said, that has a real impact is the lack of
available housing in Ellis County.“You can’t recruit people into a community if you don’t have
housing,” Williams said. Aging schools may also be driving people away from moving to
Hays.“We have allowed our facilities to become pretty much out of
date and in disrepair in some cases,” Williams said.All those factors together and others have created the current workforce shortage.“I think a lot of little factors make a big difference,”
Williams said. “When you look at the 1.9 percent, it amounts to about 350 people
in our workforce. So you have 350 potential people that by definition, are unemployed
and receiving benefits. That’s not very many.”He said that presents challenges for existing businesses as
well as economic growth potential.“When we are trying to recruit organizations to come to our
community, the first thing they look at is workforce,” Williams said. “They
have got to have a workforce, so without one, we have really no chance of
recruiting somebody.”But even identifying the underlying causes of the labor shortfall, and working to address them, will not fix the problem overnight.“We have to fix these
things and, unfortunately, they are not quick fixes."

Diverse factors behind Hays-area workforce shortage; no quick fixes

High Plains Mental Health Center has announced a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, will allow staff members to advance their educations and help grow the regional mental health workforce in the midst of unprecedented need for services. The Foundation has awarded scholarships to three current High Plains staff members, who will pursue Master’s of Social Work degrees at Fort Hays State University with the intention to become full-time therapists in Northwest Kansas after completing the program.

“We are incredibly grateful for the Hansen Foundation’s generous support and assistance in increasing access to mental health services in Northwest Kansas,” said Walt Hill, executive director of High Plains. “We believe this project will make a significant difference in the lives of our staff and in helping us address workforce shortages that have hindered our ability to expand services.”

A shortage of mental health professionals has been a significant barrier in rural Kansas, where the availability of qualified work force is declining, even as the need for community mental health services is increasing. According to information from FHSU, approximately 12 percent of the Kansas population lives in western Kansas. However, less than 5 percent of mental health professionals live and work in the western half of the state. The number of clients served by High Plains has increased significantly since 2017, with nearly 6,700 clients served in 2020 – the highest number in the agency’s 57-year history. Experts in the mental health field are concerned the need for services will continue to grow in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic due to increased stress, isolation and grief experienced by many.

Recruiting a sufficient number of mental health professionals to meet increasing levels of need has been difficult, partly due to fewer college students pursuing careers in mental health and increased workforce competition in urban areas — which often can offer higher salaries, Hill said. Turnover rates are often high, but High Plains has seen success with previous “grow your own” workforce initiatives, he said.

“We have found that employees who have ties to the region are more likely to have lengthy careers at High Plains. We are so thankful for the Hansen Foundation providing an opportunity to invest in three of our dedicated and skilled staff members, so they can continue investing their time and talent in our Northwest Kansas communities,” Hill said.

A $37,500 Hansen scholarship fund will provide the staff members with $7,500 of tuition assistance per year for up to two years — the duration of FHSU’s new MSW program. The staff members will be obligated to continue working at High Plains for a few years in exchange for the scholarship funding. The three staff members involved in the program are Meriah Escarcega, Carmen Morales and Mandy Stock, all of whom have years of experience working in various capacities at High Plains.&nbsp;

Meriah is a Recovery Specialist based in Hays and has a bachelor’s in psychology from FHSU. She said she has always known she wanted a career in mental health or substance use counseling, but she wasn’t sure if pursuing a master’s degree would be within her reach financially. She will begin her MSW studies in August and hopes to become an outpatient therapist.

“I want to practice as a therapist and work more directly with clients in a way that I can help them,” she said. “There is such a stigma regarding mental health and I want to be a part of helping people understand that it is OK if they need therapy, even if it is just to vent every so often.”

Mandy is a Recovery Specialist based in Osborne who also will begin her MSW studies at FHSU this fall. She is a mother of three, and finished her bachelor’s degree in 2015. Shortly after, she began her job at High Plains.

“When I came to High Plains to work in mental health as a Recovery Specialist three years ago, I felt things ‘click’ with my personal strengths, my work and my interests all lining up for the first time,” Mandy said. “I love what we get to do, helping people to live their best lives. I am passionate about working with families and children, in particular.”

Carmen has worked at High Plains for six years and also currently serves as a Recovery Specialist based in Hays. She is bilingual and said she hopes to help increase access to mental health services for the Spanish-speaking population in Northwest Kansas.&nbsp;

“I chose social work as my career because I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and help vulnerable populations,” she said. “I also wanted to further my education to be able to close the gap in services for the Spanish-speaking population in Western Kansas who struggle to reach out for services due to language barriers and cultural stigma.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578344475899.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPMHHigh Plains Mental Health Center has announced a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, will allow staff members to advance their educations and help grow the regional mental health workforce in the midst of unprecedented need for services. The Foundation has awarded scholarships to three current High Plains staff members, who will pursue Master’s of Social Work degrees at Fort Hays State University with the intention to become full-time therapists in Northwest Kansas after completing the program.“We are incredibly grateful for the Hansen Foundation’s generous support and assistance in increasing access to mental health services in Northwest Kansas,” said Walt Hill, executive director of High Plains. “We believe this project will make a significant difference in the lives of our staff and in helping us address workforce shortages that have hindered our ability to expand services.”A shortage of mental health professionals has been a significant barrier in rural Kansas, where the availability of qualified work force is declining, even as the need for community mental health services is increasing. According to information from FHSU, approximately 12 percent of the Kansas population lives in western Kansas. However, less than 5 percent of mental health professionals live and work in the western half of the state. The number of clients served by High Plains has increased significantly since 2017, with nearly 6,700 clients served in 2020 – the highest number in the agency’s 57-year history. Experts in the mental health field are concerned the need for services will continue to grow in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic due to increased stress, isolation and grief experienced by many.Recruiting a sufficient number of mental health professionals to meet increasing levels of need has been difficult, partly due to fewer college students pursuing careers in mental health and increased workforce competition in urban areas — which often can offer higher salaries, Hill said. Turnover rates are often high, but High Plains has seen success with previous “grow your own” workforce initiatives, he said.“We have found that employees who have ties to the region are more likely to have lengthy careers at High Plains. We are so thankful for the Hansen Foundation providing an opportunity to invest in three of our dedicated and skilled staff members, so they can continue investing their time and talent in our Northwest Kansas communities,” Hill said.A $37,500 Hansen scholarship fund will provide the staff members with $7,500 of tuition assistance per year for up to two years — the duration of FHSU’s new MSW program. The staff members will be obligated to continue working at High Plains for a few years in exchange for the scholarship funding. The three staff members involved in the program are Meriah Escarcega, Carmen Morales and Mandy Stock, all of whom have years of experience working in various capacities at High Plains.&nbsp;Meriah is a Recovery Specialist based in Hays and has a bachelor’s in psychology from FHSU. She said she has always known she wanted a career in mental health or substance use counseling, but she wasn’t sure if pursuing a master’s degree would be within her reach financially. She will begin her MSW studies in August and hopes to become an outpatient therapist.“I want to practice as a therapist and work more directly with clients in a way that I can help them,” she said. “There is such a stigma regarding mental health and I want to be a part of helping people understand that it is OK if they need therapy, even if it is just to vent every so often.”Mandy is a Recovery Specialist based in Osborne who also will begin her MSW studies at FHSU this fall. She is a mother of three, and finished her bachelor’s degree in 2015. Shortly after, she began her job at High Plains.“When I came to High Plains to work in mental health as a Recovery Specialist three years ago, I felt things ‘click’ with my personal strengths, my work and my interests all lining up for the first time,” Mandy said. “I love what we get to do, helping people to live their best lives. I am passionate about working with families and children, in particular.”Carmen has worked at High Plains for six years and also currently serves as a Recovery Specialist based in Hays. She is bilingual and said she hopes to help increase access to mental health services for the Spanish-speaking population in Northwest Kansas.&nbsp;“I chose social work as my career because I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and help vulnerable populations,” she said. “I also wanted to further my education to be able to close the gap in services for the Spanish-speaking population in Western Kansas who struggle to reach out for services due to language barriers and cultural stigma.”

Hansen grant will help grow regional mental health workforce

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

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,758 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622826850614.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: June 4, 2021" 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=c7hp8-1055ef8-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported three new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 3,758 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙 3 new cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday; Kennedy talks vaccine incentives

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hay city commissioners are considering two mill levy increases specifically for economic development and social services funding in the 2022 budget.

"Let's look at a one-half mill levy increase for economic development," Mayor Sandy Jacobs suggested during Thursday evening's work session. "It would offer some sustainable income. I think it's really difficult to operate a group like Grow Hays when you don't know where your next dollar is coming from."

Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder went further in his support and said an economic development mill levy should be higher, at three-quarters of a mill.

"Especially with what we've seen with <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a64b029b-2327-4173-9b00-c021faa2a583">unemployment rates</a>, we need [to] bring more people in, bring more housing, bring more jobs," Ruder said.&nbsp;

"Even at three-quarters [of a mill], it's not matching what our comparable communities do, but it's something. ... Economic development needs funded or we're going to start dying."

Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, told commissioners that Garden City has economic development mill levies from the city, county, and community college.&nbsp;

"If we did this, we would be on par," Williams said. "Right now we're spending about half of what Garden City does on economic development. Their annual budget is around $475,000."

Competing with peer cities is not easy, said Shaun Musil, commissioner.&nbsp;"We hear from the community all the time to look at what other cities are doing. ... We don't have the factories and stuff but we can't let up."

Musil is "100 percent" supportive of a mill ley for consistent economic development funding.&nbsp;

"Since I've been on here, we went from cutting them, to giving them more, to cutting, to giving more."&nbsp;

Commissioner Michael Berges supports an additional mill levy of 0.75 mills for the CARE Council which funds a number of local social service programs. His request was in a letter ready by Jacobs as Berges was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

"I believe stabilizing the annual funding for the agencies' requests to CARE Council will eliminate some of the unknowns of available funding that can come in fluctuations in general operating funds, which in turn stabilizes the budgets of our most dedicated and important non-profit organizations caring for the most vulnerable in our community," Berges wrote in his letter.

The tax mill levy for the city of Hays has remained at 25 mills for 12 consecutive years.

Commissioner Ron Mellick said this is the wrong time to increase the mill levy.

"We're trying to increase housing and people that buy that house are going to pay another 1.5 mills on that," Mellick said. "Landlords will pass their increases onto their renters.

The 2021 budget has $100,000 for Grow Hays, the economic development organization for Hays and Ellis County, and $168,000 for CARE Council which allots the funds to social services programs such as ACCESS van, CASA of the High Plains, and First Call For Help.&nbsp;

Williams said Grow Hays is requesting economic development funding in 2022 from all governing bodies in Ellis County.&nbsp;

“I think it sends a message
to our community that the city is committed to economic development and hopefully
doing something like this will make it a little bit easier to get the corporate
world -&nbsp; the stake holders -&nbsp; involved," said Jacobs. "I think if they see that kind of a commitment from us, it may
make a difference in your ability to fundraise outside of us."

City Manager Toby Dougherty estimated a total 1.5 mill levy increase would add $43 a year in Ellis County property taxes on a $250,000 house in Hays.&nbsp;

The proposed increases would be especially hard on low-income and fix-income residents, Mellick said.

Commissioners will further review the proposed 2022 budget at their July 1 work session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622779039972.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners are considering two mill levy increases in 2022 for economic development and the CARE Council. The city's levy of 25 mills has not increased the past 12 years." />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners are considering two mill levy increases in 2022 for economic development and the CARE Council. The city's levy of 25 mills has not increased the past 12 years.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHay city commissioners are considering two mill levy increases specifically for economic development and social services funding in the 2022 budget."Let's look at a one-half mill levy increase for economic development," Mayor Sandy Jacobs suggested during Thursday evening's work session. "It would offer some sustainable income. I think it's really difficult to operate a group like Grow Hays when you don't know where your next dollar is coming from."Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder went further in his support and said an economic development mill levy should be higher, at three-quarters of a mill."Especially with what we've seen with <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a64b029b-2327-4173-9b00-c021faa2a583">unemployment rates</a>, we need [to] bring more people in, bring more housing, bring more jobs," Ruder said.&nbsp;"Even at three-quarters [of a mill], it's not matching what our comparable communities do, but it's something. ... Economic development needs funded or we're going to start dying."Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, told commissioners that Garden City has economic development mill levies from the city, county, and community college.&nbsp;"If we did this, we would be on par," Williams said. "Right now we're spending about half of what Garden City does on economic development. Their annual budget is around $475,000."Competing with peer cities is not easy, said Shaun Musil, commissioner.&nbsp;"We hear from the community all the time to look at what other cities are doing. ... We don't have the factories and stuff but we can't let up."Musil is "100 percent" supportive of a mill ley for consistent economic development funding.&nbsp;"Since I've been on here, we went from cutting them, to giving them more, to cutting, to giving more."&nbsp;Commissioner Michael Berges supports an additional mill levy of 0.75 mills for the CARE Council which funds a number of local social service programs. His request was in a letter ready by Jacobs as Berges was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;"I believe stabilizing the annual funding for the agencies' requests to CARE Council will eliminate some of the unknowns of available funding that can come in fluctuations in general operating funds, which in turn stabilizes the budgets of our most dedicated and important non-profit organizations caring for the most vulnerable in our community," Berges wrote in his letter.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tV7qP17zzls"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The tax mill levy for the city of Hays has remained at 25 mills for 12 consecutive years.Commissioner Ron Mellick said this is the wrong time to increase the mill levy."We're trying to increase housing and people that buy that house are going to pay another 1.5 mills on that," Mellick said. "Landlords will pass their increases onto their renters.The 2021 budget has $100,000 for Grow Hays, the economic development organization for Hays and Ellis County, and $168,000 for CARE Council which allots the funds to social services programs such as ACCESS van, CASA of the High Plains, and First Call For Help.&nbsp;Williams said Grow Hays is requesting economic development funding in 2022 from all governing bodies in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623082289954.jpeg" alt="Doug Williams, Grow Hays exec. dir. and Neal Younger, Ellis County Commissioner, listen to Hays city commissioners discuss a proposed&nbsp; mill levy for economic development in 20222." />
 <figcaption>Doug Williams, Grow Hays exec. dir. and Neal Younger, Ellis County Commissioner, listen to Hays city commissioners discuss a proposed&nbsp; mill levy for economic development in 20222.</figcaption>
 </figure>“I think it sends a message
to our community that the city is committed to economic development and hopefully
doing something like this will make it a little bit easier to get the corporate
world -&nbsp; the stake holders -&nbsp; involved," said Jacobs. "I think if they see that kind of a commitment from us, it may
make a difference in your ability to fundraise outside of us."City Manager Toby Dougherty estimated a total 1.5 mill levy increase would add $43 a year in Ellis County property taxes on a $250,000 house in Hays.&nbsp;The proposed increases would be especially hard on low-income and fix-income residents, Mellick said.Commissioners will further review the proposed 2022 budget at their July 1 work session.

🎥  City commissioners consider mill levy increases for economic development, social services funding

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court appointed two people to the Supreme Court Task Force on Permanency Planning and reappointed three others. &nbsp; Kristen Powell, Wichita, was appointed to a four-year term to begin July 1 and end June 30, 2025. She succeeds Daniel Martin, Topeka, whose term expires June 30.

Caitlyn Eakin, Great Bend, was appointed to complete the unexpired term of Vanessa Dudley-Miller, Topeka. She will serve through June 30, 2023.

They will serve four-year terms ending June 30, 2025.

The Supreme Court established the working task force&nbsp;in 1984. It advises the court on ways to provide and improve the care of children who are under jurisdiction of the court. Its responsibilities include:

Overall, the task force recommends improvements and suggests programs that help children placed in foster care find safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible. &nbsp; The 18-member task force includes district court judges; district magistrate judges; lawyers; court-appointed guardians; prosecutors; and representatives from Indian tribal courts, state agencies, Court Appointed Special Advocates, citizen review boards, and mental health, behavioral health, and substance abuse treatment providers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593180302304.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News release TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court appointed two people to the Supreme Court Task Force on Permanency Planning and reappointed three others. &nbsp; Kristen Powell, Wichita, was appointed to a four-year term to begin July 1 and end June 30, 2025. She succeeds Daniel Martin, Topeka, whose term expires June 30.Caitlyn Eakin, Great Bend, was appointed to complete the unexpired term of Vanessa Dudley-Miller, Topeka. She will serve through June 30, 2023.The court reappointed:<ul>
 <li>District Magistrate Judge Debra Anderson, who serves in Norton County of the 17th Judicial District; </li><li>Kansas Court of Appeals Judge Kathryn Gardner; and </li><li>Morgan Hall, Topeka.</li>
 </ul>They will serve four-year terms ending June 30, 2025.The Supreme Court established the working task force&nbsp;in 1984. It advises the court on ways to provide and improve the care of children who are under jurisdiction of the court. Its responsibilities include:<ul>
 <li>developing and implementing a strategic plan for child welfare oversight; </li><li>collaborating with district courts, the Kansas Department for Children and Families, and Native American tribes in Kansas; </li><li>developing and implementing statewide legal training; and </li><li>reviewing federally funded child and family services.</li>
 </ul>Overall, the task force recommends improvements and suggests programs that help children placed in foster care find safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible. &nbsp; The 18-member task force includes district court judges; district magistrate judges; lawyers; court-appointed guardians; prosecutors; and representatives from Indian tribal courts, state agencies, Court Appointed Special Advocates, citizen review boards, and mental health, behavioral health, and substance abuse treatment providers.Other members of the task force are:<ul>
 <li>District Judge Jeffry Larson, chair, of the 5th Judicial District, composed of Chase and Lyon counties; </li><li>Kathy Armstrong, Topeka; </li><li>District Magistrate Judge Jenifer Ashford, serving in the 10th Judicial District, which is Johnson County; </li><li>Jeff Cowger, Topeka; </li><li>Brian Dempsey, Topeka; </li><li>Deb Dickerhoof, Emporia; </li><li>Sandra Dixon, Lawrence; </li><li>Vicki Ford, Kansas City; </li><li>Chris Halbert, Holton; </li><li>Chief Judge Amy Harth of the 6th Judicial District, composed of Bourbon, Linn, and Miami counties; </li><li>District Judge Kellie Hogan of the 18th Judicial District, which is Sedgwick County; </li><li>District Magistrate Judge Kevin Kimball, serving in Franklin County of the 4th Judicial District; </li><li>Kerri Lonard, Topeka; </li><li>Kathy Ray, Topeka; and </li><li>District Judge Jane Wilson of the 29th Judicial District, which is Wyandotte County.</li>
 </ul>

Norton Co. judge reappointed to Kan. Supreme Court Task Force

In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts are returning this summer.

Each week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming freshman through graduating seniors).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists.

July 5-9 – Russell (location TBA) July 12- 16 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center) July 19 – 23 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater) July 26 – 30 – Hoxie (Hoxie High School) July 26 – 30 – Salina (Salina Community Theater)

Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp; Registration is limited to the first 20 students in each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit lovewell.org, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.

After successful summers in 2018, 2019, the program offered online opportunities in 2020 due to COVID-19. This summer, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation is pleased to bring Lovewell back for&nbsp;in-person workshops.

Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore music and theater in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers was overwhelmingly positive.

The week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of ALL kinds.

The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.

The Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50.&nbsp; However, no student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available.

Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, playwrites, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.

Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United states and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>

SubmittedIn-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts are returning this summer.Each week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming freshman through graduating seniors).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists.Workshop schedule:July 5-9 – Russell (location TBA) July 12- 16 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center) July 19 – 23 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater) July 26 – 30 – Hoxie (Hoxie High School) July 26 – 30 – Salina (Salina Community Theater)Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp; Registration is limited to the first 20 students in each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit lovewell.org, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.After successful summers in 2018, 2019, the program offered online opportunities in 2020 due to COVID-19. This summer, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation is pleased to bring Lovewell back for&nbsp;in-person workshops.Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore music and theater in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers was overwhelmingly positive.ABOUT THE LOVEWELL WORKSHOPSThe week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of ALL kinds.The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.PARTICIPTION COSTSThe Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50.&nbsp; However, no student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available.ABOUT LOVEWELLLovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, playwrites, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United states and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>

High school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts

Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc. in WaKeeney, KS, seeks a full-time Billing Specialist.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/careers">https://www.westerncoop.com/careers</a>

Competitive pay and an excellent benefits package. To view a detailed job description and to apply, visit <a href="http://www.westerncoop.com/careers">www.westerncoop.com/careers</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622815420191.png" alt="<a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/careers">https://www.westerncoop.com/careers</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/careers">https://www.westerncoop.com/careers</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc. in WaKeeney, KS, seeks a full-time Billing Specialist.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/careers">https://www.westerncoop.com/careers</a>Responsibilities<ul>
 <li>Oversee billing, collections, and administer procedures according to company policy.</li><li>Understand complex rate structures, billing components, and collection regulations.</li><li>Assist members and Customer Service Representatives (CSRs), both on the phone and in person, with billing questions.</li>
 </ul>Education and Experience Required<ul>
 <li>An associate or bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or a related field</li><li>Five years of experience, including two years of utility billing experience, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.</li>
 </ul>Competitive pay and an excellent benefits package. To view a detailed job description and to apply, visit <a href="http://www.westerncoop.com/careers">www.westerncoop.com/careers</a>.

Norton Co. foundation, chamber announce 'Station 15' podcast 

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

In the last three to five years now, there have been problems with chinch bugs coming out of mature wheat fields and feeding on the small grain sorghum and forage sorghum plants after wheat harvest.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The overwintered adults emerge in early spring and fly into small grains where they mate and produce the first generation. Most problems in milo or feed occur when large groups of the immature, wingless nymphs migrate from maturing wheat fields and invade adjacent sorghum or sorghum/sudan hay fields where they attempt to complete development. They typically do not infest the entire field but can take out several rows of milo next to the wheat. &nbsp;

Problems with this insect were historically confined to eastern and central Kansas, with damage beginning in May or June, but in recent years, chinch bugs have become more of a problem further west in the state.&nbsp;

Chinch bugs puncture vascular tissues to extract plant juices and secrete digestive enzymes that cause the breakdown of surrounding plant tissues. Feeding punctures also can allow pathogens to enter the plant.&nbsp; Consequently, damaged plants present a variety of symptoms including stunting, yellowing, wilting, and necrotic lesions. The effect nymphal feeding has on plants depends to a large degree on the size, health and nutritional status of the plants. Growth stage and water balance are critical because small or drought-stressed plants have less ability to tolerate or recover from chinch bug feeding damage.&nbsp;

Using seed treatments: clothianidin (Poncho), imidacloprid (numerous products) and thiamethoxam (Cruiser) at planting can potentially decrease chinch bug damage and may protect plants for up to 3 weeks, unless the migration is heavy. Growers can use follow-up sprays on border rows if protection wears off before the end of chinch bug migration.&nbsp;

Most often the damage is noticed only after several rows of sorghum or feed have been severely stunted or killed. Ideally treating promptly as migrations begin and before significant numbers of bugs enter the field and small plants are affected is best.

An insecticide spray can be used over the affected rows and approximately an additional 100 feet beyond. Also, spraying about 100 feet into the wheat stubble is advisable if chinch bugs are still coming out of the wheat field.

Most currently approved insecticides have good efficacy against chinch bugs, if three factors are considered. First, it is important to use the full recommended rate of the selected insecticide, preferably applied in 20 to 40 gallons of water per acre. High gallonage ensures good plant coverage and enhances the movement of material into protected plant parts such as leaf sheaths, which increases the probability of contact with bugs. Second, the material should be applied with properly adjusted and calibrated equipment. Cone nozzles designed for high-pressure use will create smaller droplets and improve coverage. Third, the timing of the insecticide application is critical. Early morning applications are preferred because winds are calm (reducing drift), temperatures are cool (reducing volatilization of chemicals), and a large proportion of the chinch bug population will be on the plants and exposed to the application. None of the materials currently registered for use against chinch bugs has long residual efficacy and plants can outgrow the protection. Because peak migrations may continue for 10 days or more, monitoring is required to determine if additional applications to border rows are necessary.&nbsp;

There are several insecticides labeled for the control of chinch bugs listed in the K-State Research &amp; Extension publication “Sorghum Insect Management” which can be found on our web site at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>

If you have any questions or need further information, contact me at the Cottonwood District Extension Office in Hays.&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622826331182.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIn the last three to five years now, there have been problems with chinch bugs coming out of mature wheat fields and feeding on the small grain sorghum and forage sorghum plants after wheat harvest.&nbsp; &nbsp;The overwintered adults emerge in early spring and fly into small grains where they mate and produce the first generation. Most problems in milo or feed occur when large groups of the immature, wingless nymphs migrate from maturing wheat fields and invade adjacent sorghum or sorghum/sudan hay fields where they attempt to complete development. They typically do not infest the entire field but can take out several rows of milo next to the wheat. &nbsp;Problems with this insect were historically confined to eastern and central Kansas, with damage beginning in May or June, but in recent years, chinch bugs have become more of a problem further west in the state.&nbsp;Chinch bugs puncture vascular tissues to extract plant juices and secrete digestive enzymes that cause the breakdown of surrounding plant tissues. Feeding punctures also can allow pathogens to enter the plant.&nbsp; Consequently, damaged plants present a variety of symptoms including stunting, yellowing, wilting, and necrotic lesions. The effect nymphal feeding has on plants depends to a large degree on the size, health and nutritional status of the plants. Growth stage and water balance are critical because small or drought-stressed plants have less ability to tolerate or recover from chinch bug feeding damage.&nbsp;Using seed treatments: clothianidin (Poncho), imidacloprid (numerous products) and thiamethoxam (Cruiser) at planting can potentially decrease chinch bug damage and may protect plants for up to 3 weeks, unless the migration is heavy. Growers can use follow-up sprays on border rows if protection wears off before the end of chinch bug migration.&nbsp;Most often the damage is noticed only after several rows of sorghum or feed have been severely stunted or killed. Ideally treating promptly as migrations begin and before significant numbers of bugs enter the field and small plants are affected is best.An insecticide spray can be used over the affected rows and approximately an additional 100 feet beyond. Also, spraying about 100 feet into the wheat stubble is advisable if chinch bugs are still coming out of the wheat field.Most currently approved insecticides have good efficacy against chinch bugs, if three factors are considered. First, it is important to use the full recommended rate of the selected insecticide, preferably applied in 20 to 40 gallons of water per acre. High gallonage ensures good plant coverage and enhances the movement of material into protected plant parts such as leaf sheaths, which increases the probability of contact with bugs. Second, the material should be applied with properly adjusted and calibrated equipment. Cone nozzles designed for high-pressure use will create smaller droplets and improve coverage. Third, the timing of the insecticide application is critical. Early morning applications are preferred because winds are calm (reducing drift), temperatures are cool (reducing volatilization of chemicals), and a large proportion of the chinch bug population will be on the plants and exposed to the application. None of the materials currently registered for use against chinch bugs has long residual efficacy and plants can outgrow the protection. Because peak migrations may continue for 10 days or more, monitoring is required to determine if additional applications to border rows are necessary.&nbsp;There are several insecticides labeled for the control of chinch bugs listed in the K-State Research &amp; Extension publication “Sorghum Insect Management” which can be found on our web site at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>If you have any questions or need further information, contact me at the Cottonwood District Extension Office in Hays.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Don’t forget about chinch bugs after wheat harvest 

On this episode of the Post Podcast Center for Life Experiences executive director, Ann Leiker speaks about the mission of the center and their upcoming events.

<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="Center for Life Experiences helps area residents deal with loss" 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=yajic-105488c-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Center for Life Experiences executive director, Ann Leiker speaks about the mission of the center and their upcoming events.<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: Center for Life Experiences helps area residents deal with loss

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The races for the fall city and school board elections are
set.

The deadline for interested candidates to file was noon Tuesday
and while there were a number of candidates who filed for several positions, there was still not enough interest to force an August primary election.

To force a primary election, there has to be triple the
number of candidates file for the number of open seats, plus one. 

With three positions up for election on the Ellis and
Victoria city councils, Hays City Commission, the Victoria, Ellis and Hays
school boards, and the Big Creek, Munjor, Prairie Acres and Suburban Estates
Improvement Districts, there would need to be 10 candidates file in each race to
force a primary. None of the races reached that threshold. 

Below you can find a complete list of candidates: * denotes incumbent

Ellis City Mayor *David R McDaniel

Ellis City Treasurer *Faith A Scheck

Ellis City Councilmember (3 at large positions) *John A Walz *Tricia L Pritchett *Devin D Henderson

Hays City Commission (Two 4-year terms; One 2-year term) Samuel E Allen *Shaun Musil Reese E Barrick *Sandy Jacobs Demetrius D Chance 
 
Schoenchen Mayor Kevin Bieker

Schoenchen City Councilmember – (5 Positions) *Kyle Zimmerman *Federick H Follmer

Victoria City Mayor *John Schulte

Victoria Councilmember (3 positions) *Harland E Rupp *Ryan Lichter 
 
USD 388 (3 at large positions) *Jared Schiel *Dean R Gottschalk Latisha D Haag

USD 432 (3 District at-Large positions) *Ryan Mauch Jeanna Wellbrock *Sean Rodger

USD 489 (3 at-large positions) Casey F Herrman Thomas M Wasinger Curt C Vajnar Ken Brooks Cathy Hopkins Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp *Nuchelle Lee Chance

Big Creek Improvement District (3 Director positions) Casey F Herrman Duane F Kuhn Larry D Leiker Joe Deckman Keith Schmidt

Munjor Improvement District (3 Director positions)

Prairie Acres Improvement District (3 Director positions)

Suburban Estates Improvement District (3 Director positions)

Cottonwood Extension District (2 board positions) Kathleen Huser Donna J Maskus Hannah Enslow Kelsey Stremel

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe races for the fall city and school board elections are
set.The deadline for interested candidates to file was noon Tuesday
and while there were a number of candidates who filed for several positions, there was still not enough interest to force an August primary election.To force a primary election, there has to be triple the
number of candidates file for the number of open seats, plus one. With three positions up for election on the Ellis and
Victoria city councils, Hays City Commission, the Victoria, Ellis and Hays
school boards, and the Big Creek, Munjor, Prairie Acres and Suburban Estates
Improvement Districts, there would need to be 10 candidates file in each race to
force a primary. None of the races reached that threshold. Below you can find a complete list of candidates: * denotes incumbentEllis City Mayor *David R McDaniel Ellis City Treasurer *Faith A ScheckEllis City Councilmember (3 at large positions) *John A Walz *Tricia L Pritchett *Devin D HendersonHays City Commission (Two 4-year terms; One 2-year term) Samuel E Allen *Shaun Musil Reese E Barrick *Sandy Jacobs Demetrius D Chance 
 
Schoenchen Mayor Kevin BiekerSchoenchen City Councilmember – (5 Positions) *Kyle Zimmerman *Federick H FollmerVictoria City Mayor *John SchulteVictoria Councilmember (3 positions) *Harland E Rupp *Ryan Lichter 
 
USD 388 (3 at large positions) *Jared Schiel *Dean R Gottschalk Latisha D HaagUSD 432 (3 District at-Large positions) *Ryan Mauch Jeanna Wellbrock *Sean RodgerUSD 489 (3 at-large positions) Casey F Herrman Thomas M Wasinger Curt C Vajnar Ken Brooks Cathy Hopkins Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp *Nuchelle Lee ChanceBig Creek Improvement District (3 Director positions) Casey F Herrman Duane F Kuhn Larry D Leiker Joe Deckman Keith SchmidtMunjor Improvement District (3 Director positions)Prairie Acres Improvement District (3 Director positions)Suburban Estates Improvement District (3 Director positions) Cottonwood Extension District (2 board positions) Kathleen Huser Donna J Maskus Hannah Enslow Kelsey Stremel

Races set for Ellis County city, school board election

Dr. Ivalah Allen is “thrilled” to announce the 74th annual High Plains Music Camp at Fort Hays State University will be in person after having to hold the 2020 version virtually because of the pandemic.

“I was holding my breath until we learned in late March that we had the go-ahead,” said Allen, associate professor of music and theatre director of the camp. “We are excited to have these young musicians back on campus.”

The dates for the camp – which include instruction for middle and high school students in band, orchestra, and vocal – are July 11-17. Registration for a residential, full-time camp participant is $450, which includes lodging and meals. The cost for day participants is $250. All participants receive quality instruction, a drawstring cinch bag, and a T-shirt. Registration is encouraged by June 15. After that date, a $100 late fee will be added to the camp fee.

For more information about the camp or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJHb8fZoOmT3xvja-2FZCF1auuasQte-2FA5Zh9wTzkU3yJH4Y8dq_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem19bzCuSlUEWwjqB2bBu9FxfFdSBDDtSOYRx4AHh9rxnzUP2LWa3oPQz7PtdRnOrQHulB9m8aKXW1D9wpNurDVNgy4lAxoDfs0yLQwi5gzXK96AaMEluHf-2Ft2Mpw2arw2Lc-2BTrhNVWl3aJZGEliY6qjHcnRlz70vr2T3iJN8ldKUGnxYOasxyiyUi26d0zoJ2GsmeQbbhl4nlU2zsANbT9WW4w6N-2FUBbpTWYZ3cDqRr1z20g8k8qF226Z5J2K1xU1pgxd-2BMsZuiF1qNaoY0At2w-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/musiccamp</a>. Contact information also is available on that web page for anyone with questions about the camp.

There will be sessions for middle school band and four areas of instruction featuring high school students – band, jazz band, orchestra, and vocal. The only section that will not be held this year is middle school orchestra because of low early enrollment and lack of enough orchestra staff.

Nightly performances at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall will include a visit by the Kansas 135th Infantry Band from Fort Riley Tuesday. Those performances, set for 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, are all open and free to the public. Jazz band performances begin at 6 p.m. Friday. There also will be a musical at 6 p.m. Friday in Felten-Start Theatre in Malloy Hall.

The camp, one of a kind in Kansas, is an opportunity to learn from nationally recognized musicians, teachers, and conductors. It also is an excellent recruiting tool for FHSU, and the camp annually is a training ground of sorts for current Fort Hays State students who serve as counselors.

“We have a lot of music education students help at the camp,” she said. “We like to get them involved as counselors because this is the age group they are going to be working with as teachers when they graduate.”

It’s a full week for the participants. After arriving on campus Sunday for registration, they audition for the various levels of instruction. The counselors then begin tours of the campus, and ensemble rehearsals begin following dinner Sunday evening. Following full days of instruction, the participants then are all involved – in one way or another – in the evening concerts.&nbsp;

Allen is looking forward to another action-packed week.

“There are no two years of camp that are alike,” she said. “It can be challenging and keeps us on our toes. But that’s what makes it fun.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622576973226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsDr. Ivalah Allen is “thrilled” to announce the 74th annual High Plains Music Camp at Fort Hays State University will be in person after having to hold the 2020 version virtually because of the pandemic.“I was holding my breath until we learned in late March that we had the go-ahead,” said Allen, associate professor of music and theatre director of the camp. “We are excited to have these young musicians back on campus.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622577032357.png" alt="Dr. Ivalah Allen" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Ivalah Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>The dates for the camp – which include instruction for middle and high school students in band, orchestra, and vocal – are July 11-17. Registration for a residential, full-time camp participant is $450, which includes lodging and meals. The cost for day participants is $250. All participants receive quality instruction, a drawstring cinch bag, and a T-shirt. Registration is encouraged by June 15. After that date, a $100 late fee will be added to the camp fee.For more information about the camp or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJHb8fZoOmT3xvja-2FZCF1auuasQte-2FA5Zh9wTzkU3yJH4Y8dq_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem19bzCuSlUEWwjqB2bBu9FxfFdSBDDtSOYRx4AHh9rxnzUP2LWa3oPQz7PtdRnOrQHulB9m8aKXW1D9wpNurDVNgy4lAxoDfs0yLQwi5gzXK96AaMEluHf-2Ft2Mpw2arw2Lc-2BTrhNVWl3aJZGEliY6qjHcnRlz70vr2T3iJN8ldKUGnxYOasxyiyUi26d0zoJ2GsmeQbbhl4nlU2zsANbT9WW4w6N-2FUBbpTWYZ3cDqRr1z20g8k8qF226Z5J2K1xU1pgxd-2BMsZuiF1qNaoY0At2w-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/musiccamp</a>. Contact information also is available on that web page for anyone with questions about the camp.There will be sessions for middle school band and four areas of instruction featuring high school students – band, jazz band, orchestra, and vocal. The only section that will not be held this year is middle school orchestra because of low early enrollment and lack of enough orchestra staff.Nightly performances at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall will include a visit by the Kansas 135th Infantry Band from Fort Riley Tuesday. Those performances, set for 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, are all open and free to the public. Jazz band performances begin at 6 p.m. Friday. There also will be a musical at 6 p.m. Friday in Felten-Start Theatre in Malloy Hall.The camp, one of a kind in Kansas, is an opportunity to learn from nationally recognized musicians, teachers, and conductors. It also is an excellent recruiting tool for FHSU, and the camp annually is a training ground of sorts for current Fort Hays State students who serve as counselors.“We have a lot of music education students help at the camp,” she said. “We like to get them involved as counselors because this is the age group they are going to be working with as teachers when they graduate.”It’s a full week for the participants. After arriving on campus Sunday for registration, they audition for the various levels of instruction. The counselors then begin tours of the campus, and ensemble rehearsals begin following dinner Sunday evening. Following full days of instruction, the participants then are all involved – in one way or another – in the evening concerts.&nbsp;Allen is looking forward to another action-packed week.“There are no two years of camp that are alike,” she said. “It can be challenging and keeps us on our toes. But that’s what makes it fun.”

High Plains Music Camp returns to Fort Hays State campus

What great joy it was to have in-person Fort Hays State University commencement ceremonies this spring!

Now that June has arrived, we are officially returning to pre-COVID-19 policies and practices. In general, this means that face coverings are no longer required. Classrooms will be returned to “normal” capacity. The Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center will retire its classroom pandemic re-assignment and re-embrace its performing arts purpose. And a myriad of opportunities to connect and grow in our relationships will proliferate. It is finally time to see smiles as we reconnect deeply and sincerely.&nbsp;

We celebrated this return with a campus-wide picnic on June 2, and I am excited and brimming with optimism.

As we celebrate this renewal, I am reminded of a saying: Grace grows best in the winter. For me, COVID-19 was a time of slowing down, of creating new self-care routines, and being intentional in nurturing and growing key relationships. Now, the great outdoors awaits with a flurry of promises and hope. Masks have been packed away. Dinner parties, parades, concerts, and summer holiday celebrations await.

As my summer calendar quickly fills up, I find myself pausing for a moment to reflect on what I have learned while living, surrendering, and growing through a world-wide pandemic as the Fort Hays State University president. Here are a few of my thoughts:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>What great joy it was to have in-person Fort Hays State University commencement ceremonies this spring!Now that June has arrived, we are officially returning to pre-COVID-19 policies and practices. In general, this means that face coverings are no longer required. Classrooms will be returned to “normal” capacity. The Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center will retire its classroom pandemic re-assignment and re-embrace its performing arts purpose. And a myriad of opportunities to connect and grow in our relationships will proliferate. It is finally time to see smiles as we reconnect deeply and sincerely.&nbsp;We celebrated this return with a campus-wide picnic on June 2, and I am excited and brimming with optimism.As we celebrate this renewal, I am reminded of a saying: Grace grows best in the winter. For me, COVID-19 was a time of slowing down, of creating new self-care routines, and being intentional in nurturing and growing key relationships. Now, the great outdoors awaits with a flurry of promises and hope. Masks have been packed away. Dinner parties, parades, concerts, and summer holiday celebrations await.As my summer calendar quickly fills up, I find myself pausing for a moment to reflect on what I have learned while living, surrendering, and growing through a world-wide pandemic as the Fort Hays State University president. Here are a few of my thoughts:First, we took the time to frame our path forward by adopting guiding principles before designing strategy or policy. Those guiding principles were: prioritize the health and safety of faculty, staff, and students; protect the mission of FHSU; maintain critical operations and fiscal footing; be mindful of good governance principles; remain nimble and true to FHSU’s innovative culture; and comply with any Kansas Board of Regents directives. These guiding principles helped us stay clear during times of multiple options and especially when our decisions differed from our peers.Second, we focused on, and drew from, our core institutional characteristics of resiliency, innovation, and care. Our grit and determination have always propelled this western Kansas university forward. From our meager beginnings to our unprecedented successful present, we did what we do best – we got to work. As we confidently “rolled up our sleeves,” we drew upon our legacy as a pioneer in quality distance education. Since 1902, we have delivered learning solutions that fit students’ circumstances – and this time of pandemic was no different. Through a lot of hard work and intelligent risks, our community borrowed best practices while forging our own path.&nbsp;While the curriculum was boldly being redesigned by our faculty, our staff created care teams to check in on every student throughout the pandemic. This coalition of more than 100 faculty, staff, and student volunteers helped our students stay connected and on track with their academic plans. Our student emergency fund was ramped up. FHSU Foundation trustees wrote checks and asked, “How can I help?”During the spring of 2020, all students who had an on-campus job were paid whether or not they worked or were unable to work due to returning home. Throughout the pandemic, not one FHSU employee lost their position due to COVID-19. Our highest-need students received an additional $2.9 million in aid, thanks to government assistance. Our 2020-2021 academic calendar remained unchanged, and all breaks were honored so that our people could rest.As I write about our planning and decisions, it seems so simple. But in the moment, we were leading on the edge. Our people were working harder and intentionally in ways that cannot even be described. It was intense. It was hard.&nbsp;Third, throughout the process we had incredible partners. The Kansas Board of Regents facilitated information sharing while giving us the latitude to make individual and regional decisions. My colleagues, the university presidents of the other five KBOR universities, met weekly to exchange information and strategies. Though unpopular to some, the city of Hays mask mandate helped us normalize best practices, while the Ellis County Health Department assisted in reinforcing community expectations and protocols. Ellis County went a step further by helping us fund our quarantine protocol by providing hotel and food vouchers for students while our campus care team continually checked on our students. That was remarkable!Finally, throughout this entire process, I came to understand that this would be a growing season for me. One of the ways I grew as a professional was to learn on a very deep level the difference between managing and leading. I had to figure out where my voice was needed and when my trust was needed more than my voice, when to step into discussions, and when to resist the temptation “to be in charge” so that those closer to critical issues had the space to rely on their expertise to drive solutions. Sometimes these moments were humbling. Sometimes they were nerve-racking. But mostly, I felt the deepest gratitude to be surrounded by strong, smart, humble, hardworking colleagues. As trust was tested and nurtured, I learned a lot about letting go of managing to increase my capacity to lead.In reflecting back upon this past year and half, I realize that while there will always be challenges and changes, Tiger Nation will continue to press on and grow in spite of them. It is who we are.

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