Another school year has come to an end but that does not mean that a family schedule is impossible. Yes, it will be important to give your kids some down time in between their ball practices or swimming lessons. But do make an effort to limit screen time either in front of the TV or any of the other electronic devices that many children are literally glued to.&nbsp;

A Facebook friend of mine posted a neat suggestion for families titled, “School Holiday Rules.” I have shared the information with parents who have appreciated having something that can be printed off and followed.&nbsp; While it does require a parent to help enforce the rules, I love the concept. So here goes with some suggested “School Holiday Rules.”

Children may have as much time on the iPad or TV as long as all of the following jobs have been completed BEFORE they turn on the screen.

The way I have it figured, a child who completes this list will have spent at least 3 and a half hours in productive and perhaps creative activity. They may find that the book they are reading is so enticing that they can’t put it down, or that their outdoor activity they have chosen is great fun.&nbsp;

It takes me back to my own childhood when our summer schedule looked quite similar. But it would have included at least one hour of work in the garden and when I was old enough a three-hour block to mow the grass when needed. Of course, there were 4-H projects to work on and occasionally driving the tractor to pick up hay bales.&nbsp;

I will post the rules on our Cottonwood Extension District website. I printed the “School Holiday Rules” on hot pink paper so they will really stand out on the refrigerator or bathroom mirror. If you decide to adopt these rules in your household let me know how it goes. And have a great summer!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. 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 and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Another school year has come to an end but that does not mean that a family schedule is impossible. Yes, it will be important to give your kids some down time in between their ball practices or swimming lessons. But do make an effort to limit screen time either in front of the TV or any of the other electronic devices that many children are literally glued to.&nbsp;A Facebook friend of mine posted a neat suggestion for families titled, “School Holiday Rules.” I have shared the information with parents who have appreciated having something that can be printed off and followed.&nbsp; While it does require a parent to help enforce the rules, I love the concept. So here goes with some suggested “School Holiday Rules.”Children may have as much time on the iPad or TV as long as all of the following jobs have been completed BEFORE they turn on the screen.<ul>
 <li>Made your bed</li><li>Eaten breakfast (the most important meal of the day)</li><li>Gotten dressed</li><li>Brushed teeth</li><li>Brushed hair</li><li>20 minutes of reading</li><li>20 minutes of writing or coloring</li><li>Clean up 1 room (TV room or bedroom)</li><li>Played outside for 30 minutes</li><li>Made or built something creative (Lego, craft, sand, etc.….)</li><li>Helped someone in the family (Ask if there is a job you can do, if you cannot think of something yourself)</li>
 </ul>The way I have it figured, a child who completes this list will have spent at least 3 and a half hours in productive and perhaps creative activity. They may find that the book they are reading is so enticing that they can’t put it down, or that their outdoor activity they have chosen is great fun.&nbsp;It takes me back to my own childhood when our summer schedule looked quite similar. But it would have included at least one hour of work in the garden and when I was old enough a three-hour block to mow the grass when needed. Of course, there were 4-H projects to work on and occasionally driving the tractor to pick up hay bales.&nbsp;I will post the rules on our Cottonwood Extension District website. I printed the “School Holiday Rules” on hot pink paper so they will really stand out on the refrigerator or bathroom mirror. If you decide to adopt these rules in your household let me know how it goes. And have a great summer!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Summer rules for kids

Pilots will take to the skies and see the state on Thursday, Sept. 23, to Saturday, Sept. 25, for the annual 2021 Fly Kansas Air Tour.

The Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education (KCAE) and the Kansas Department of Transportation Aviation Division have set the route this year to include stops in Wellington, Fort Scott, Ottawa, Lawrence, Clay Center, Phillipsburg, Salina, Concordia and the Beech Factory Airport in Wichita.

Registration for the event will open online on July 1. The link and other details will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE0ODI4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmZseWthbnNhcy5vcmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.HMfJrFP1mFsJPsUhcTuf6Cbtmxi9W6KtzBjzzEnjRQU/s/1410648818/br/107460525690-l" target="_blank">www.flykansas.org</a>.

The Fly Kansas Air Tour has been a fall staple for Kansas pilots since KCAE reconvened the event in 2008 to commemorate the original 1928 tour. The Fly Kansas Air Tour showcases what makes Kansas the Air Capitol of the World by giving pilots the opportunity to visit unique airports, support aerospace education by meeting with students and community members, have a firsthand look at industrial development and network with other aviators.

The tour has expanded from the original four planes to dozens of pilots visiting local airports across the state. The tour considered applications from across western, central and eastern Kansas, with events or local community involvement planned at each.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622815043991.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Pilots will take to the skies and see the state on Thursday, Sept. 23, to Saturday, Sept. 25, for the annual 2021 Fly Kansas Air Tour.The Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education (KCAE) and the Kansas Department of Transportation Aviation Division have set the route this year to include stops in Wellington, Fort Scott, Ottawa, Lawrence, Clay Center, Phillipsburg, Salina, Concordia and the Beech Factory Airport in Wichita.Registration for the event will open online on July 1. The link and other details will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE0ODI4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmZseWthbnNhcy5vcmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.HMfJrFP1mFsJPsUhcTuf6Cbtmxi9W6KtzBjzzEnjRQU/s/1410648818/br/107460525690-l" target="_blank">www.flykansas.org</a>.The Fly Kansas Air Tour has been a fall staple for Kansas pilots since KCAE reconvened the event in 2008 to commemorate the original 1928 tour. The Fly Kansas Air Tour showcases what makes Kansas the Air Capitol of the World by giving pilots the opportunity to visit unique airports, support aerospace education by meeting with students and community members, have a firsthand look at industrial development and network with other aviators.The tour has expanded from the original four planes to dozens of pilots visiting local airports across the state. The tour considered applications from across western, central and eastern Kansas, with events or local community involvement planned at each.

2021 Fly Kansas Air Tour set for Sept. 23-25

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams shares information about business recruitment in Ellis County.

<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="Business recruitment is Ellis County offers challenges; opportunities" 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=5h6ej-10564bd-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 Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams shares information about business recruitment in Ellis County.<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: Area business recruitment offers challenges; opportunities

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Arc of the Central Plains athletes competed for medals and came home with smiles from the group's track and field competition Wednesday night at the FHSU Track and Field Facility.

This is the first track meet in which the athletes have been able to compete since 2019. The 2020 and 2021 Kansas Special Olympics games were canceled due to concerns over COVID-19.

Brent Kaiser, Arc activities director, said the group felt they could conduct the games safely since the activities were all set to be outdoors.

"It is important to just get them back in the swing of things and get them back going," he said. "We wanted them to feel special and have those opportunities to be successful again."

Athletes competed in turbo javelin, softball throw, shot put, long jump, running and run/walk events.

"I think the social side is the most important," Kaiser said. "I think that is what they have been missing the most ... I think they just like being out here with their fellow athletes."

The Hays Striders track club joined the Arc athletes for running events as a warm up for their upcoming meet in Hays. FHSU athletics, as well as many volunteers from the community, assisted at the meet.

The Arc didn't have enough athletes to fill all the heats, and the Striders helped to do that. The Striders families also increased the crowd, which Kaiser said added to the atmosphere of the meet.

One athlete received a special surprise Wednesday night.&nbsp;Kacey Dannels of Hays learned she will be attending her second Special Olympics USA games in 2022. She also attended the USA games in 2018 in Seattle.

Dannels said she was very excited to be going to Orlando next year. She said she does not know what events in which she will compete. Wednesday night Dannels, 28, competed in the 800m, shot put and running long jump.

"I felt great about my run," she said. "It's hard to do, but you just have to put your mind to it to be able to do it."

Dannels also works at the north McDonald's in Hays.

Dannels will need to raise $1,000 to fund her trip. She is getting a late start, as she was chosen to replace another athlete who could not make the trip.

If you wish to donate toward Dannels' expenses for the Orlando games, you can direct donations to Kaiser at the Arc office, 600 Main, Hays, KS 676o1

Local athlete Tyler Powers also has been chosen as an athlete in bowling for the 2022 USA games. He has already raised enough funds for his trip.

Kaiser will be attending the games in Orlando as a track coach.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622751253970.jpeg" alt="Arc athletes (in green) participate in the Arc track and field meet along side Hays Striders Wednesday in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Arc athletes (in green) participate in the Arc track and field meet along side Hays Striders Wednesday in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostArc of the Central Plains athletes competed for medals and came home with smiles from the group's track and field competition Wednesday night at the FHSU Track and Field Facility.This is the first track meet in which the athletes have been able to compete since 2019. The 2020 and 2021 Kansas Special Olympics games were canceled due to concerns over COVID-19.Brent Kaiser, Arc activities director, said the group felt they could conduct the games safely since the activities were all set to be outdoors."It is important to just get them back in the swing of things and get them back going," he said. "We wanted them to feel special and have those opportunities to be successful again."Athletes competed in turbo javelin, softball throw, shot put, long jump, running and run/walk events."I think the social side is the most important," Kaiser said. "I think that is what they have been missing the most ... I think they just like being out here with their fellow athletes."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622754301017.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Striders track club joined the Arc athletes for running events as a warm up for their upcoming meet in Hays. FHSU athletics, as well as many volunteers from the community, assisted at the meet.The Arc didn't have enough athletes to fill all the heats, and the Striders helped to do that. The Striders families also increased the crowd, which Kaiser said added to the atmosphere of the meet.One athlete received a special surprise Wednesday night.&nbsp;Kacey Dannels of Hays learned she will be attending her second Special Olympics USA games in 2022. She also attended the USA games in 2018 in Seattle.Dannels said she was very excited to be going to Orlando next year. She said she does not know what events in which she will compete. Wednesday night Dannels, 28, competed in the 800m, shot put and running long jump.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622754338782.jpeg" alt="Kacey Dannels finishes her last lap of the 800m Wednesday along side a Hays Striders runner. Dannels will compete next summer in track and field at the Special Olympics USA games in Orlando, Fla." />
 <figcaption>Kacey Dannels finishes her last lap of the 800m Wednesday along side a Hays Striders runner. Dannels will compete next summer in track and field at the Special Olympics USA games in Orlando, Fla.</figcaption>
 </figure>"I felt great about my run," she said. "It's hard to do, but you just have to put your mind to it to be able to do it."Dannels also works at the north McDonald's in Hays.Dannels will need to raise $1,000 to fund her trip. She is getting a late start, as she was chosen to replace another athlete who could not make the trip.If you wish to donate toward Dannels' expenses for the Orlando games, you can direct donations to Kaiser at the Arc office, 600 Main, Hays, KS 676o1Local athlete Tyler Powers also has been chosen as an athlete in bowling for the 2022 USA games. He has already raised enough funds for his trip.Kaiser will be attending the games in Orlando as a track coach.&nbsp;<figure>
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Arc Buffaloes compete in track, field; 1 runner headed to USA games

TOPEKA — State Librarian Eric Norris, formerly of Hays, announced the 16th annual selection of Kansas Notable Books celebrating Kansas people, places, and events. The fifteen books feature quality titles with wide public appeal, either written by a Kansan or a Kansas related topic and published in the previous calendar year.

“I am proud to present the 2021 Kansas Notable Book list. This year’s books bring to life the Kansas experience through the vivid storytelling of gifted writers, talented illustrators, essayists, and poets. The rich array of works on this year’s list will both entertain as well as educate,”&nbsp;State Librarian Eric Norris said. “Reading is more important than ever. I encourage every Kansan to contact their local public library and celebrate the artists and artistry of Kansas.”

The State Library first launched the Kansas Notable Books Program in 2006. Since then, more than 200 books have been recognized for their contribution to Kansas literary heritage. This year’s selection committee included representatives of public, university, and school libraries, teachers, academics, and historians. State Librarian Eric Norris selected the final list of 15 titles which includes nonfiction and fiction books that will appeal to a wide range of audiences and cover a variety of topics and issues.

Kansas Notable Books authors will be awarded their medals at the Kansas Book Festival on September 18 at Washburn University. The public is invited.

Kansas Notable Books is a project of the Kansas Center for the Book, a program at the State Library of Kansas which is the state affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book exists to highlight the state’s literary heritage and foster an interest in books, reading, and libraries.

For descriptions, downloadable bookmarks, posters, and more information about Kansas Notable Books, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.l4vKzhfEZtUGPbFrH72aQbnRDI8N6th6hDothcr7LI4/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info/2021KNB</a>, call the State Library at 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.

"All Hallows' Shadow" by Michael D. Graves (Emporia) Meadowlark Books

"The Amelia Six" by Kristin L. Gray (Fayetteville, AR) Paula Wiseman Books

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell’Antonia (Lyme, NH) G.P. Putnam’s Sons&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Croaked! (The Misadventures of Nobbin Swill)" by Lisa Harkrader (Tonganoxie) Yellow Jacket

"Farmers Unite!: Planting a Protest for Fair Prices" by Lindsay H. Metcalf (Concordia) Calkins Creek

"Ladybird, Collected" by Meg Heriford (Lawrence)

"Un Mango Grows" in Kansas&nbsp;by Huascar Medina (Topeka) Spartan Press

"Mawson's Mission: Launching Women's Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Kansas" by L. Marlene Mawson (Lawrence) University Press of Kansas

"Northern Cheyenne Ledger Art by Fort Robinson Breakout Survivors" by Denise Low (Lawrence) and Ramon Powers (Topeka) University of Nebraska Press

"People, Pride, and Promise: The Story of the Dockum Sit-in" by Prisca Barnes (Wichita), illustrated by Priscella Brown (Wichita) Storytime Village

"Prairie Bachelor: The Story of a Kansas Homesteader and the Populist Movement" by Lynda Beck Fenwick (Pratt) University Press of Kansas

"Premeditated Myrtle: A Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery" by Elizabeth C. Bunce (Lenexa) Algonquin Young Readers

"Swimming Shelter: Poems" by Al Ortolani (Lenexa) Spartan Press

"What Sound is Morning?" by Grant Snider (Wichita) Chronicle Books

"World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments" by Aimee Nezhukumatathil (Oxford MS) Milkweed Editions

The State Library of Kansas – To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.bknajl2_FxmRwZEqGCkcPxVVKm0NwqZxh_gsXGl7bYw/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596738441444.jpeg" alt="Eric Norris is a native Kansan who received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, MA from Fort Hays State University, and MLS from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Prior to joining the State Library in 2018, he served as the Adult Department Librarian and Director of the Hays Public Library. He has also worked as a Director of Human Resources and a newspaper reporter. " />
 <figcaption>Eric Norris is a native Kansan who received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, MA from Fort Hays State University, and MLS from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Prior to joining the State Library in 2018, he served as the Adult Department Librarian and Director of the Hays Public Library. He has also worked as a Director of Human Resources and a newspaper reporter. </figcaption>
 </figure>State Library of KansasTOPEKA — State Librarian Eric Norris, formerly of Hays, announced the 16th annual selection of Kansas Notable Books celebrating Kansas people, places, and events. The fifteen books feature quality titles with wide public appeal, either written by a Kansan or a Kansas related topic and published in the previous calendar year.“I am proud to present the 2021 Kansas Notable Book list. This year’s books bring to life the Kansas experience through the vivid storytelling of gifted writers, talented illustrators, essayists, and poets. The rich array of works on this year’s list will both entertain as well as educate,”&nbsp;State Librarian Eric Norris said. “Reading is more important than ever. I encourage every Kansan to contact their local public library and celebrate the artists and artistry of Kansas.”The State Library first launched the Kansas Notable Books Program in 2006. Since then, more than 200 books have been recognized for their contribution to Kansas literary heritage. This year’s selection committee included representatives of public, university, and school libraries, teachers, academics, and historians. State Librarian Eric Norris selected the final list of 15 titles which includes nonfiction and fiction books that will appeal to a wide range of audiences and cover a variety of topics and issues.Kansas Notable Books authors will be awarded their medals at the Kansas Book Festival on September 18 at Washburn University. The public is invited.Kansas Notable Books is a project of the Kansas Center for the Book, a program at the State Library of Kansas which is the state affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book exists to highlight the state’s literary heritage and foster an interest in books, reading, and libraries.For descriptions, downloadable bookmarks, posters, and more information about Kansas Notable Books, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.l4vKzhfEZtUGPbFrH72aQbnRDI8N6th6hDothcr7LI4/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info/2021KNB</a>, call the State Library at 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.<h2>2021 Kansas Notable Books</h2>"All Hallows' Shadow" by Michael D. Graves (Emporia) Meadowlark Books"The Amelia Six" by Kristin L. Gray (Fayetteville, AR) Paula Wiseman Books"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell’Antonia (Lyme, NH) G.P. Putnam’s Sons&nbsp;&nbsp;"Croaked! (The Misadventures of Nobbin Swill)" by Lisa Harkrader (Tonganoxie) Yellow Jacket"Farmers Unite!: Planting a Protest for Fair Prices" by Lindsay H. Metcalf (Concordia) Calkins Creek"Ladybird, Collected" by Meg Heriford (Lawrence)"Un Mango Grows" in Kansas&nbsp;by Huascar Medina (Topeka) Spartan Press"Mawson's Mission: Launching Women's Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Kansas" by L. Marlene Mawson (Lawrence) University Press of Kansas"Northern Cheyenne Ledger Art by Fort Robinson Breakout Survivors" by Denise Low (Lawrence) and Ramon Powers (Topeka) University of Nebraska Press"People, Pride, and Promise: The Story of the Dockum Sit-in" by Prisca Barnes (Wichita), illustrated by Priscella Brown (Wichita) Storytime Village"Prairie Bachelor: The Story of a Kansas Homesteader and the Populist Movement" by Lynda Beck Fenwick (Pratt) University Press of Kansas"Premeditated Myrtle: A Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery" by Elizabeth C. Bunce (Lenexa) Algonquin Young Readers"Swimming Shelter: Poems" by Al Ortolani (Lenexa) Spartan Press"What Sound is Morning?" by Grant Snider (Wichita) Chronicle Books"World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments" by Aimee Nezhukumatathil (Oxford MS) Milkweed EditionsThe State Library of Kansas – To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.bknajl2_FxmRwZEqGCkcPxVVKm0NwqZxh_gsXGl7bYw/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info</a>.

State Librarian Norris announces 16th edition of Kansas Notable Books

From DC to Kansas, culture war issues are topping the conservative agenda. Many conservatives are advocating restricting speech in schools to ban something called “critical race theory” (CRT).&nbsp;

CRT isn’t a theory like, say, the theory of gravity that has clear rules and equations. Rather, it’s more like a perspective. Oversimplified, it means thinking about how race matters in law, society, and institutions, often in ways that promote racial inequality.&nbsp;

For example, Black families generally have less inherited wealth than White families. CRT might encourage considering how slavery and segregation limited economic opportunities for Blacks over generations, contributing to a racial wealth gap today.&nbsp;

That’s it. You don’t need a fancy academic label like “CRT” to think about how race matters in America.&nbsp;

CRT is not diversity or racial sensitivity training. It doesn’t regulate speech, require supporting reparations, or say that racism explains everything. Of course, like any idea, some people use CRT to voice controversial opinions, and that gets cherry picked for dramatic political arguments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Conservatives are using coordinated language to attack CRT as some big boogeyman, calling it anti-American, anti-White, socialist, unpatriotic, anti-individualism, divisive, etcetera.&nbsp;

But conservatives have largely manufactured this CRT controversy as “outrage of the day” political fodder. Yes, schools teach and talk about race. But overwhelmingly, schools don’t teach CRT.&nbsp;

The real impact of this controversy is on freedom of speech in schools—whether and how students are exposed to discussions of race. In some states, conservatives have outlawed or attempted to outlaw CRT in schools. The Kansas Attorney General has also joined a letter that some interpret as anti-CRT.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s harder for conservatives to ban CRT than you’d think. Since CRT is just a perspective, it’s often difficult to identify and censor.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For example, under these proposed speech codes, schools can teach that slavery happened. But you can’t control reactions to that. Maybe a parent or politician feels that a lesson about slavery implied something imperfect about America. Or maybe that lesson included the opinion of a Black person about what slavery means to them, and that upset some folks. Under the varied regulations that conservatives are promoting in states to ban CRT, that lesson can be interpreted as breaking the law because of how it made someone feel. Hello, lawsuit.&nbsp;

Critical thinking about race also gets dangerous. Under these new regulations, discussing race and criminal justice in a social studies class gets borderline criminal depending upon who expressed what opinion and how that conversation was interpreted.&nbsp;

Teachers in some states are telling reporters that they would rather avoid discussing race than risk breaking new speech laws. Thus, in censoring how race gets discussed, conservatives are pressuring educators to just ignore the topic.&nbsp;

If you’re wondering why the mass conniption about something that overwhelmingly isn’t in school curricula, politics is the answer. Some consultant probably distributed a memo on how to blow this issue up and agitate some chunk of voters.&nbsp;

Especially with conservatives attacking how social media companies regulate speech on privately-owned platforms, it’s ironic that many of them advocate using government power to censor discussions about race in schools. If this manufactured crisis comes to Kansas and our 2022 elections, it will be to the detriment of not just free speech and schools, but the many issues that politicians will be neglecting.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas. " />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas. </figcaption>
 </figure>From DC to Kansas, culture war issues are topping the conservative agenda. Many conservatives are advocating restricting speech in schools to ban something called “critical race theory” (CRT).&nbsp;CRT isn’t a theory like, say, the theory of gravity that has clear rules and equations. Rather, it’s more like a perspective. Oversimplified, it means thinking about how race matters in law, society, and institutions, often in ways that promote racial inequality.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For example, Black families generally have less inherited wealth than White families. CRT might encourage considering how slavery and segregation limited economic opportunities for Blacks over generations, contributing to a racial wealth gap today.&nbsp;That’s it. You don’t need a fancy academic label like “CRT” to think about how race matters in America.&nbsp;CRT is not diversity or racial sensitivity training. It doesn’t regulate speech, require supporting reparations, or say that racism explains everything. Of course, like any idea, some people use CRT to voice controversial opinions, and that gets cherry picked for dramatic political arguments.&nbsp;&nbsp;Conservatives are using coordinated language to attack CRT as some big boogeyman, calling it anti-American, anti-White, socialist, unpatriotic, anti-individualism, divisive, etcetera.&nbsp;But conservatives have largely manufactured this CRT controversy as “outrage of the day” political fodder. Yes, schools teach and talk about race. But overwhelmingly, schools don’t teach CRT.&nbsp;The real impact of this controversy is on freedom of speech in schools—whether and how students are exposed to discussions of race. In some states, conservatives have outlawed or attempted to outlaw CRT in schools. The Kansas Attorney General has also joined a letter that some interpret as anti-CRT.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s harder for conservatives to ban CRT than you’d think. Since CRT is just a perspective, it’s often difficult to identify and censor.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, under these proposed speech codes, schools can teach that slavery happened. But you can’t control reactions to that. Maybe a parent or politician feels that a lesson about slavery implied something imperfect about America. Or maybe that lesson included the opinion of a Black person about what slavery means to them, and that upset some folks. Under the varied regulations that conservatives are promoting in states to ban CRT, that lesson can be interpreted as breaking the law because of how it made someone feel. Hello, lawsuit.&nbsp;Critical thinking about race also gets dangerous. Under these new regulations, discussing race and criminal justice in a social studies class gets borderline criminal depending upon who expressed what opinion and how that conversation was interpreted.&nbsp;Teachers in some states are telling reporters that they would rather avoid discussing race than risk breaking new speech laws. Thus, in censoring how race gets discussed, conservatives are pressuring educators to just ignore the topic.&nbsp;If you’re wondering why the mass conniption about something that overwhelmingly isn’t in school curricula, politics is the answer. Some consultant probably distributed a memo on how to blow this issue up and agitate some chunk of voters.&nbsp;Especially with conservatives attacking how social media companies regulate speech on privately-owned platforms, it’s ironic that many of them advocate using government power to censor discussions about race in schools. If this manufactured crisis comes to Kansas and our 2022 elections, it will be to the detriment of not just free speech and schools, but the many issues that politicians will be neglecting.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Critical race theory — manufacturing a crisis

kansashealthyyards.org recommends the completion of these tasks in June

Summer brings the lazy, hazy days. With the spring cleanup and planting done, June is a time for simple maintenance and enjoyment of the lawn and landscape.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Renovate June bearing strawberry beds 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fertilize strawberries and water regularly to promote new growth 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Plant another crop of sweet corn and green beans 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Watch tomatoes for foliar leaf disease development and treat 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mulch crops for moisture conservation and weed control 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Continue a regular fruit disease and insect control program 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Remove sucker growth from base of trees and along branches 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Pinch herbs to keep bushy and fresh with new growth 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Turn compost pile and keep moist for a quicker breakdown

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Pinch chrysanthemums for development of a bushy plant 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Deadhead spent flower blossoms to keep plant flowering 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Remove flower stalks from peonies and iris 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mulch flower gardens for the summer to conserve moisture, control weeds and cool the soil 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water plants as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fertilize roses with about 1 cup of low analysis fertilizer per plant 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Trim spent rose blossoms 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check plants for insects 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Remove dead foliage from spring bulbs 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water and fertilize container plantings regularly to encourage growth and flowering

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Raise mowing height on tall fescue to 3" or 3 ½" for summer heat resistance 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Spot treat for broadleaf weeds 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Let grass clippings fall for nutrient recycling 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water the turf sparingly to increase drought tolerance during heat of summer. Let turf wilt between watering for best results 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check mower blade for sharpness and sharpen as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check lawn mower engine oil and add or change according to owners' manual

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check for bagworms and control as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mulch around the bases of trees and shrubs to conserve moisture 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Prune pines and spruces to shape and control size 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water newly planted trees and shrubs as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Prune spring flowering shrubs 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Do not damage tree trunks with mowers and weed whips 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check for spider mite damage on various shrubs 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Clip hedges as needed to maintain shape

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fertilizer throughout the summer months to encourage growth 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Wash leaves to remove dust 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Take cuttings to start new plants 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Prune and shape plants for added beauty 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Repot plants as needed in 1" larger containers 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check for insect problems

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614966296214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>kansashealthyyards.org recommends the completion of these tasks in JuneSummer brings the lazy, hazy days. With the spring cleanup and planting done, June is a time for simple maintenance and enjoyment of the lawn and landscape.Vegetables and Fruits•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Renovate June bearing strawberry beds 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fertilize strawberries and water regularly to promote new growth 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Plant another crop of sweet corn and green beans 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Watch tomatoes for foliar leaf disease development and treat 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mulch crops for moisture conservation and weed control 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Continue a regular fruit disease and insect control program 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Remove sucker growth from base of trees and along branches 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Pinch herbs to keep bushy and fresh with new growth 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Turn compost pile and keep moist for a quicker breakdownFlowers•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Pinch chrysanthemums for development of a bushy plant 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Deadhead spent flower blossoms to keep plant flowering 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Remove flower stalks from peonies and iris 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mulch flower gardens for the summer to conserve moisture, control weeds and cool the soil 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water plants as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fertilize roses with about 1 cup of low analysis fertilizer per plant 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Trim spent rose blossoms 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check plants for insects 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Remove dead foliage from spring bulbs 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water and fertilize container plantings regularly to encourage growth and floweringLawns•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Raise mowing height on tall fescue to 3" or 3 ½" for summer heat resistance 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Spot treat for broadleaf weeds 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Let grass clippings fall for nutrient recycling 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water the turf sparingly to increase drought tolerance during heat of summer. Let turf wilt between watering for best results 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check mower blade for sharpness and sharpen as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check lawn mower engine oil and add or change according to owners' manualTrees and Shrubs•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check for bagworms and control as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mulch around the bases of trees and shrubs to conserve moisture 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Prune pines and spruces to shape and control size 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Water newly planted trees and shrubs as needed 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Prune spring flowering shrubs 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Do not damage tree trunks with mowers and weed whips 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check for spider mite damage on various shrubs 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Clip hedges as needed to maintain shapeHouseplants•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fertilizer throughout the summer months to encourage growth 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Wash leaves to remove dust 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Take cuttings to start new plants 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Prune and shape plants for added beauty 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Repot plants as needed in 1" larger containers 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Check for insect problems

From the Ellis Co. Master Gardeners: June garden calendar

Three-day weather outlook

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>.

Resurfacing work underway in Gove County

Have you ever dreamed of soaring among the clouds? A new Hays club wants to help you make your dream come true.

Hays chapter 1655 of the <a href="https://www.eaa.org/">Experimental Aircraft Association</a> had an informational meeting last week at Gella's to spark interest in the club and flying.

The meeting was standing room only. Twenty-eight people signed up for a free discovery flight from <a href="https://crottsaircraft.com/">Hays Aircraft</a>. Aiden Debey won the drawing for the free flight.

The association is an international organization comprised of more than 900 chapters, representing virtually the entire spectrum of recreational aviation. The local chapter is one of the newest in the association.

Gary Shorman, Hays chapter president, said the association covers flying, as well as building your own aircraft.&nbsp;

You don't need to own your own plane to learn to fly. Some of the association's licensed pilots rent airplanes at the&nbsp;<a href="https://flyhays.com/">Hays Regional Airport</a>.

"If you learn to fly an airplane, whatever it is, you can transition to others," Shorman said.

You have to be at least 16 to fly solo and have a medical exam from an FAA certified examiner.

It takes 40 hours of flight time to earn your private pilot's license.&nbsp;Written, practical and oral tests are also required.&nbsp;

A new license classification is the sport pilot's license. This only takes 20 hours of flight time to earn. However, there are restrictions including number of passengers, maximum aircraft speed and aircraft weight limits. You also can't fly by instruments only, multi-engine planes or at night.

"When you take off and you realize that you have to land, it helps you get inspired to be a pilot," Shorman said. "When you take off on that first solo flight, you are supposed to fly around and then land — that is a big thrill. After that, you're kind of hooked on it forever."

Several of the members of the local association said they flew for work trips, which cuts travel time by hours. Shorman regularly flies to Kansas City for business. It is a one-hour flight and a four-hour drive.

"This past year, I gained 135 hours difference between flying everywhere than driving," he said. "That's about three weeks of your life that you get back to be able to do other things you want to do."

Todd Taylor, instructor with Hays Aircraft, said during flight instruction, you will learn how to recover from potentially dangerous situations, such as a stall.

"I taught for a lot of years, middle school and high school, and I always tried to teach people the right way to do it," he said. "We go out and do stalls, which is not something you want to do every day, but you have to show them how to do it wrong, so you can show them how to fix it and do it right."

Taylor said learning to fly will cost about $7,000 on average. Flight time runs about $175 per hour.

Shorman said he learned to fly over several summers. Taylor said most people take six months to a year to earn their private pilot's license.

Chapter activities range from monthly meetings to airport open houses, fly-ins, educational programs, and special events that share aviation with the community and build a stronger bond between local aviation and the public.

For more information about the local chapter of the association, contact Gary Shorman at 785-301-2082. You can also contact Hays Aircraft at 785-628-8881 about flight lessons.

Disclosure:&nbsp;Gary Shorman is chairman and chief development officer of Eagle Radio, which owns and operates the Hays Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622651334930.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixaby&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixaby&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHave you ever dreamed of soaring among the clouds? A new Hays club wants to help you make your dream come true.Hays chapter 1655 of the <a href="https://www.eaa.org/">Experimental Aircraft Association</a> had an informational meeting last week at Gella's to spark interest in the club and flying.The meeting was standing room only. Twenty-eight people signed up for a free discovery flight from <a href="https://crottsaircraft.com/">Hays Aircraft</a>. Aiden Debey won the drawing for the free flight.The association is an international organization comprised of more than 900 chapters, representing virtually the entire spectrum of recreational aviation. The local chapter is one of the newest in the association.Gary Shorman, Hays chapter president, said the association covers flying, as well as building your own aircraft.&nbsp;You don't need to own your own plane to learn to fly. Some of the association's licensed pilots rent airplanes at the&nbsp;<a href="https://flyhays.com/">Hays Regional Airport</a>."If you learn to fly an airplane, whatever it is, you can transition to others," Shorman said.You have to be at least 16 to fly solo and have a medical exam from an FAA certified examiner.It takes 40 hours of flight time to earn your private pilot's license.&nbsp;Written, practical and oral tests are also required.&nbsp;A new license classification is the sport pilot's license. This only takes 20 hours of flight time to earn. However, there are restrictions including number of passengers, maximum aircraft speed and aircraft weight limits. You also can't fly by instruments only, multi-engine planes or at night."When you take off and you realize that you have to land, it helps you get inspired to be a pilot," Shorman said. "When you take off on that first solo flight, you are supposed to fly around and then land — that is a big thrill. After that, you're kind of hooked on it forever."Several of the members of the local association said they flew for work trips, which cuts travel time by hours. Shorman regularly flies to Kansas City for business. It is a one-hour flight and a four-hour drive."This past year, I gained 135 hours difference between flying everywhere than driving," he said. "That's about three weeks of your life that you get back to be able to do other things you want to do."Todd Taylor, instructor with Hays Aircraft, said during flight instruction, you will learn how to recover from potentially dangerous situations, such as a stall."I taught for a lot of years, middle school and high school, and I always tried to teach people the right way to do it," he said. "We go out and do stalls, which is not something you want to do every day, but you have to show them how to do it wrong, so you can show them how to fix it and do it right."Taylor said learning to fly will cost about $7,000 on average. Flight time runs about $175 per hour.Shorman said he learned to fly over several summers. Taylor said most people take six months to a year to earn their private pilot's license.Chapter activities range from monthly meetings to airport open houses, fly-ins, educational programs, and special events that share aviation with the community and build a stronger bond between local aviation and the public.For more information about the local chapter of the association, contact Gary Shorman at 785-301-2082. You can also contact Hays Aircraft at 785-628-8881 about flight lessons.Disclosure:&nbsp;Gary Shorman is chairman and chief development officer of Eagle Radio, which owns and operates the Hays Post.

Hays EAA chapter encourages people to learn to fly, seeking new members

Mattias Labriel is a typical young teenager. He loves Minecraft, all things Pokemon and watching all sorts of YouTubes like DudePerfect, Mr. Beast, PrestonPlays, Bionic, among many others.&nbsp; During the pandemic shutdown, he spent plenty of time on his computer playing online games, but a majority of his time was spent writing his first book.

His love for writing was born out of 2020’s quarantine from the COVID-19 pandemic when school moved online and at home he found himself bored with lots of extra time on his hands.&nbsp; His mom allowed him to switch between homeschool work and writing on his book, to escape to his imaginary world he had created … the world of the Elements — Oxa. All of this was done in his home in Ecuador, where his parents are missionaries.

Mattias spent several months writing his ideas down, creating characters and situations in his fantasy book about a group of young teenage friends and their adventures in a magical land of the Elements called Oxa. In January, his mom, Sarah Labriel, contacted Andy Stanton of Hays to help with some writing coaching, editing and final page layout so they could publish his book on&nbsp;<a href="http://amazon.com/">Amazon.com</a>. XYLION – The Dark Lord was listed as a paperback and e-book in late May.

Labriel was born in Kansas and has lived in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and currently lives in Ecuador as a missionary kid. He’s also proud of his Latino birth culture. His biological father died when Mattias was 2 years old and was from El Salvador, and his dad that is raising him is from Guatemala. Mattias embraces both countries’ cultures.

The Labriel family will be visiting friends and family in Hays in mid-June where he will host a “Meet the Author” and book signing at the Hays Public Library from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, June 14, at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.

Mattias isn’t stopping writing just yet. He already has a second book written in the series and is currently working on the third. The second book will be available on Amazon later this summer. He’s fluent in English, Spanish and has studies Portuguese.&nbsp; He’s currently in a specialized class that teaches speed reading, and he’s getting his watercraft certificate to be able to solo jet ski at his Grandparents this summer.&nbsp;

A Facebook page for the book is located at &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Xylion-The-Dark-Lord-109793834638229">https://www.facebook.com/Xylion-The-Dark-Lord-109793834638229</a>

XYLION - The Dark Lord is available for purchase at Amazon:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/XYLION-Dark-Lord-Mattias-Labriel/dp/B095GNPN7R">https://www.amazon.com/XYLION-Dark-Lord-Mattias-Labriel/dp/B095GNPN7R</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622813956715.png" alt="Mattias Labriel" />
 <figcaption>Mattias Labriel</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMattias Labriel is a typical young teenager. He loves Minecraft, all things Pokemon and watching all sorts of YouTubes like DudePerfect, Mr. Beast, PrestonPlays, Bionic, among many others.&nbsp; During the pandemic shutdown, he spent plenty of time on his computer playing online games, but a majority of his time was spent writing his first book.His love for writing was born out of 2020’s quarantine from the COVID-19 pandemic when school moved online and at home he found himself bored with lots of extra time on his hands.&nbsp; His mom allowed him to switch between homeschool work and writing on his book, to escape to his imaginary world he had created … the world of the Elements — Oxa. All of this was done in his home in Ecuador, where his parents are missionaries.Mattias spent several months writing his ideas down, creating characters and situations in his fantasy book about a group of young teenage friends and their adventures in a magical land of the Elements called Oxa. In January, his mom, Sarah Labriel, contacted Andy Stanton of Hays to help with some writing coaching, editing and final page layout so they could publish his book on&nbsp;<a href="http://amazon.com/">Amazon.com</a>. XYLION – The Dark Lord was listed as a paperback and e-book in late May.Labriel was born in Kansas and has lived in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and currently lives in Ecuador as a missionary kid. He’s also proud of his Latino birth culture. His biological father died when Mattias was 2 years old and was from El Salvador, and his dad that is raising him is from Guatemala. Mattias embraces both countries’ cultures.The Labriel family will be visiting friends and family in Hays in mid-June where he will host a “Meet the Author” and book signing at the Hays Public Library from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, June 14, at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.Mattias isn’t stopping writing just yet. He already has a second book written in the series and is currently working on the third. The second book will be available on Amazon later this summer. He’s fluent in English, Spanish and has studies Portuguese.&nbsp; He’s currently in a specialized class that teaches speed reading, and he’s getting his watercraft certificate to be able to solo jet ski at his Grandparents this summer.&nbsp;A Facebook page for the book is located at &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Xylion-The-Dark-Lord-109793834638229">https://www.facebook.com/Xylion-The-Dark-Lord-109793834638229</a>XYLION - The Dark Lord is available for purchase at Amazon:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/XYLION-Dark-Lord-Mattias-Labriel/dp/B095GNPN7R">https://www.amazon.com/XYLION-Dark-Lord-Mattias-Labriel/dp/B095GNPN7R</a>

13-year-old Hays native publishes book

Here are some options to consider while away on vacation to help keep your indoor plants healthy and safe.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ltW3pB9Nkqc"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here are some options to consider while away on vacation to help keep your indoor plants healthy and safe.

🎥 Green & Growing 2021: Watering while on vacation

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

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.

<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."