Because of the COVID-19 virus situation, the local mail carriers will not be doing their annual food drive, so Eagle Radio of Hays decided to help out.

In association with the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays, the Community Assistance Center is having a cash drive to replenish the shelves in their food pantry.&nbsp; Through April 22, all money collected by the Community Assistance Center will be matched&nbsp;by the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays up to $5,000 each.

That’s $10,000 in matching funds.&nbsp;

Mail or drop off a check or cash donation by the Community Assistance Center, 208 East 12th in Hays.&nbsp; The staff is there until noon each day Monday through Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Because of the COVID-19 virus situation, the local mail carriers will not be doing their annual food drive, so Eagle Radio of Hays decided to help out.In association with the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays, the Community Assistance Center is having a cash drive to replenish the shelves in their food pantry.&nbsp; Through April 22, all money collected by the Community Assistance Center will be matched&nbsp;by the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays up to $5,000 each.That’s $10,000 in matching funds.&nbsp;Mail or drop off a check or cash donation by the Community Assistance Center, 208 East 12th in Hays.&nbsp; The staff is there until noon each day Monday through Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays match food drive donations

American Family Insurance is returning $200 million to its auto insurance customers following a decrease in driving and accident-claims from the COVID-19 pandemic. The premium relief plan was recently approved by Kansas insurance regulators. Customers will receive payments in the form of a check they can use as they wish.

“As part of the Hays and Ellis communities, I know how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting our customers and others,” said Curt Staab, an American Family Insurance agency owner in Hays.&nbsp; “I’m proud to be able to assist customers, who are at the center of everything we do.”

The premium relief will come as a one-time full payment of $50 per vehicle covered by an American Family personal auto policy. The typical American Family household with auto coverage has two vehicles, meaning the average relief check will be $100. 

Payments will be mailed to Kansas customers soon and American Family expects to complete the printing and distribution of all checks within 60 days.

Relief payments are based on personal auto policies in force as of March 11, 2020, the date the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic.&nbsp;

Customers with questions about this payment can go to <a href="http://www.amfam.com/relief-payment">www.amfam.com/relief-payment</a> or contact the Curt Staab Agency, <a href="mailto:cstaab@amfam.com">cstaab@amfam.com</a>, 785-628-3276.&nbsp;

SubmittedAmerican Family Insurance is returning $200 million to its auto insurance customers following a decrease in driving and accident-claims from the COVID-19 pandemic. The premium relief plan was recently approved by Kansas insurance regulators. Customers will receive payments in the form of a check they can use as they wish.“As part of the Hays and Ellis communities, I know how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting our customers and others,” said Curt Staab, an American Family Insurance agency owner in Hays.&nbsp; “I’m proud to be able to assist customers, who are at the center of everything we do.”The premium relief will come as a one-time full payment of $50 per vehicle covered by an American Family personal auto policy. The typical American Family household with auto coverage has two vehicles, meaning the average relief check will be $100. 

Payments will be mailed to Kansas customers soon and American Family expects to complete the printing and distribution of all checks within 60 days.Relief payments are based on personal auto policies in force as of March 11, 2020, the date the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic.&nbsp;Customers with questions about this payment can go to <a href="http://www.amfam.com/relief-payment">www.amfam.com/relief-payment</a> or contact the Curt Staab Agency, <a href="mailto:cstaab@amfam.com">cstaab@amfam.com</a>, 785-628-3276.&nbsp;

Insurance company returning premiums to auto customers in Hays, Ellis

The Hays area Knights of Columbus would like to let everyone who is participating in the Lift High the Cross project, the Knights will be leaving your crosses up for an additional two weeks. 

They are doing this due to the recent coronavirus&nbsp;shutdown. 

The date the Knights will get them is Saturday, May 2. 

They also hope that they will provide comfort in this troubling time.

The Hays area Knights of Columbus would like to let everyone who is participating in the Lift High the Cross project, the Knights will be leaving your crosses up for an additional two weeks. They are doing this due to the recent coronavirus&nbsp;shutdown. The date the Knights will get them is Saturday, May 2. They also hope that they will provide comfort in this troubling time.

Knights of Columbus crosses to stay up 2 more weeks

Beginning Tuesday, USD 489 free drive-up meals will be offered Mondays through Thursdays.&nbsp;

Friday's cold breakfast and lunch will be served on Thursdays.

The sites and times for pickup will remain the same — 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Hays High School, Hays Middle School and Lincoln Elementary School.

The change is being made to further promote social distancing.

All children ages 1 through 18 are eligible for meals regardless if they are enrolled in USD 489 schools. Children must be present during meal pick up unless a waiver has been signed.

No meals will be offered today (April 10) or Monday because of the holiday break.

USD 489Beginning Tuesday, USD 489 free drive-up meals will be offered Mondays through Thursdays.&nbsp;Friday's cold breakfast and lunch will be served on Thursdays.The sites and times for pickup will remain the same — 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Hays High School, Hays Middle School and Lincoln Elementary School.The change is being made to further promote social distancing.All children ages 1 through 18 are eligible for meals regardless if they are enrolled in USD 489 schools. Children must be present during meal pick up unless a waiver has been signed.No meals will be offered today (April 10) or Monday because of the holiday break.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586530899061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Schedule changes for Hays USD 489 drive-up meals

MANHATTAN - To find out how to reach your local agents, visit the K-State Research and Extension county and district directory as well as our new COVID-19 resources page:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kstate.ag/KSRE-COVID-19?fbclid=IwAR3uq94vMoC77bCBDmw855wg-COHgh6sMxeAvkfJcjuY1ArB1y2fJ9bzjeE">https://kstate.ag/KSRE-COVID-19</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586519778186.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSREMANHATTAN - To find out how to reach your local agents, visit the K-State Research and Extension county and district directory as well as our new COVID-19 resources page:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kstate.ag/KSRE-COVID-19?fbclid=IwAR3uq94vMoC77bCBDmw855wg-COHgh6sMxeAvkfJcjuY1ArB1y2fJ9bzjeE">https://kstate.ag/KSRE-COVID-19</a>.

KSRE suspends face-to-face programs until July 4

At 8 a.m. Friday water service in the Ellis County Rural Water District 1C will be shut off for repairs to be made to a six-inch water main.

The shutoff does not affect the city of Hays.

The length of time the water will be turned off for the repair has not been determined.

At 8 a.m. Friday water service in the Ellis County Rural Water District 1C will be shut off for repairs to be made to a six-inch water main.The shutoff does not affect the city of Hays.The length of time the water will be turned off for the repair has not been determined.

Water from Ellis Co. RWD 1C to be turned off Friday for repairs

The EHS Alumni cookbook is available for pre-order.

If you haven't already ordered, and you are interested, please message Sylvia Deutscher, Rita Younger, Pauleen Edmonds, Amber Deutscher or Emily Mattheyer.

Cookbooks are $20 each, but shipping costs have not been determined yet.

Even if you are not a graduate of EHS but are interested, you may buy one.

The EHS Alumni cookbook is available for pre-order.If you haven't already ordered, and you are interested, please message Sylvia Deutscher, Rita Younger, Pauleen Edmonds, Amber Deutscher or Emily Mattheyer.Cookbooks are $20 each, but shipping costs have not been determined yet.Even if you are not a graduate of EHS but are interested, you may buy one.The book contains more than 500 recipes.

Pre-orders being taken for EHS Alumni Cookbook

The Shelter Insurance group of companies was among the first to take the stance of continuing coverage when a customer could not pay their premium, and now Shelter, including its subsidiaries AmShield Insurance, Haulers Insurance, and Say Insurance, will join others in our industry in finding ways to provide relief to our customers who insure their personal autos with us.

Many of our customers are under unprecedented stay-at-home orders and social-distancing mandates, so they are driving fewer miles and experiencing fewer accidents. 

In the interest of providing help to our customers now, when they need it most, Shelter will issue a payment to our policyholders representing approximately 30 percent of their personal auto monthly premium for the months of April and May, based on our best estimate of the impact of this pandemic on our customers and on Shelter’s business.

We will work diligently to obtain approval from the Departments of Insurance in each state we serve to get this money into our customers’ hands as quickly as possible. 

If a customer paid their premium automatically through a bank account, we will deposit directly into the account when possible.

Shelter is known for doing the right thing. 

We will continue to evaluate this rapidly evolving situation and do what we can to help our customers, agents, and employees.

SubmittedThe Shelter Insurance group of companies was among the first to take the stance of continuing coverage when a customer could not pay their premium, and now Shelter, including its subsidiaries AmShield Insurance, Haulers Insurance, and Say Insurance, will join others in our industry in finding ways to provide relief to our customers who insure their personal autos with us.Many of our customers are under unprecedented stay-at-home orders and social-distancing mandates, so they are driving fewer miles and experiencing fewer accidents. In the interest of providing help to our customers now, when they need it most, Shelter will issue a payment to our policyholders representing approximately 30 percent of their personal auto monthly premium for the months of April and May, based on our best estimate of the impact of this pandemic on our customers and on Shelter’s business.We will work diligently to obtain approval from the Departments of Insurance in each state we serve to get this money into our customers’ hands as quickly as possible. If a customer paid their premium automatically through a bank account, we will deposit directly into the account when possible.Otherwise, we will mail a check.Shelter is known for doing the right thing. We will continue to evaluate this rapidly evolving situation and do what we can to help our customers, agents, and employees.

Insurance provider to issue payments to policy holders

As of Monday, the City of Ellis has closed the city parks and Ellis Lakeside Campground until further notice as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus.

As of Monday, the City of Ellis has closed the city parks and Ellis Lakeside Campground until further notice as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586291713071.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

City of Ellis closes parks, campground 

Hazardous Occupations Safety Training in Agriculture

Due to the COVID-19 closures and the uncertainty as to when we may be able to restart Hays Recreation Commission programs we postponed the printing and mailing of the Spring &amp; Summer Hays Rec Times scheduled to be delivered April 3,&nbsp;and the start of registration.

This is not how we wanted to start this spring and summer season, but feel that until we have a date in which we can safely resume operations, it is better to not take registrations and then have to issue more credits and refunds, if we can’t start on the given dates.

We do hope that there will be some kind of summer season, what that season will look like all depends on how things progress.&nbsp; So keep checking back for updates.&nbsp; 

Our staff has been busy posting videos and posts to keep connected to our HRC family.&nbsp; 

And if you are looking for a summer job we are still taking applications for Hays Aquatic Park because once given the all-clear, it is full speed ahead to UNPLUG AND PLAY!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585868585630.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HRCDue to the COVID-19 closures and the uncertainty as to when we may be able to restart Hays Recreation Commission programs we postponed the printing and mailing of the Spring &amp; Summer Hays Rec Times scheduled to be delivered April 3,&nbsp;and the start of registration.This is not how we wanted to start this spring and summer season, but feel that until we have a date in which we can safely resume operations, it is better to not take registrations and then have to issue more credits and refunds, if we can’t start on the given dates.We do hope that there will be some kind of summer season, what that season will look like all depends on how things progress.&nbsp; So keep checking back for updates.&nbsp; Our staff has been busy posting videos and posts to keep connected to our HRC family.&nbsp; And if you are looking for a summer job we are still taking applications for Hays Aquatic Park because once given the all-clear, it is full speed ahead to UNPLUG AND PLAY!

HRC summer programs delayed; job applications open for HAP

The ServSafe program is a national certification program designed to teach safe handling practices to foodservice employees and others who handle and serve food to the public. 

Because everyone is concerned about the safety of our family and friends, ServSafe and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation is offering ServSafe Food Safety Handler and ServSafe for Covid-19 training free through April 30.&nbsp; More information can be found here <a href="https://www.servsafe.com/Landing-Pages/Free-Courses?fbclid=IwAR18oyZg32iwsY_4UBeRf0tOG2_G6XYlF-mpvVoE0YLIui8RMys_d3JaQkc">https://www.servsafe.com/Landing-Pages/Free-Courses</a>

The free trainings include Takeout and ServSafe Delivery Covid-19 Precautions. These are short videos and a certificate of completion can be printed after viewing the videos. The other free offer includes ServSafe Food Handler training and assessment. It does not include food manager training courses. ServSafe provides training for the food service and restaurant industry to ensure that guests are provided a safe food dining experience. All those in the food service industry are encouraged to take advantage of this free offer.&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576703253818.png" alt="Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The ServSafe program is a national certification program designed to teach safe handling practices to foodservice employees and others who handle and serve food to the public. Because everyone is concerned about the safety of our family and friends, ServSafe and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation is offering ServSafe Food Safety Handler and ServSafe for Covid-19 training free through April 30.&nbsp; More information can be found here <a href="https://www.servsafe.com/Landing-Pages/Free-Courses?fbclid=IwAR18oyZg32iwsY_4UBeRf0tOG2_G6XYlF-mpvVoE0YLIui8RMys_d3JaQkc">https://www.servsafe.com/Landing-Pages/Free-Courses</a>The free trainings include Takeout and ServSafe Delivery Covid-19 Precautions. These are short videos and a certificate of completion can be printed after viewing the videos. The other free offer includes ServSafe Food Handler training and assessment. It does not include food manager training courses. ServSafe provides training for the food service and restaurant industry to ensure that guests are provided a safe food dining experience. All those in the food service industry are encouraged to take advantage of this free offer.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Free food safety training offered for food service workers

&nbsp; To register, people can go online to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.livewellnwk.org/upcomingevents">https://www.livewellnwk.org/upcomingevents</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586027283377.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; To register, people can go online to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.livewellnwk.org/upcomingevents">https://www.livewellnwk.org/upcomingevents</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Free virtual workshop: Building Resilience in Real Time

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=350">New rules</a> at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course&nbsp; allowing play to resume at 8 a.m. Fri., April 3, were altered slightly late Thursday afternoon.

Originally, only one person was to be allowed in a golf court.&nbsp;

Now, a golf cart may be occupied by more than one person if they are family members living in the same household.

The city of Hays closed the golf course Monday morning when Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly's Stay at Home order went into effect due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Several area courses remained open. Jeff Boyle, director of parks, received a lot of phone calls and emails from disgruntled local golfers.&nbsp;

Boyle worked with the state to allow the municipal course to reopen in a safe manner. New course rules were compiled to provide the opportunity to play golf while following the restrictions outlined in EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 20-16.&nbsp;

The new rules are available on the city's <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/2927/Golf-Course-Covid-19-Response?bidId=">website</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585871648046.jpeg" alt="The Hays municipal golf course will reopen Friday with new&nbsp; rules in place amidst the coronavirus outbreak." />
 <figcaption>The Hays municipal golf course will reopen Friday with new&nbsp; rules in place amidst the coronavirus outbreak.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=350">New rules</a> at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course&nbsp; allowing play to resume at 8 a.m. Fri., April 3, were altered slightly late Thursday afternoon.Originally, only one person was to be allowed in a golf court.&nbsp;Now, a golf cart may be occupied by more than one person if they are family members living in the same household.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585869817823.jpeg" alt="More than one person may now ride in a golf cart if they are family members living in the same place." />
 <figcaption>More than one person may now ride in a golf cart if they are family members living in the same place.</figcaption>
 </figure>The city of Hays closed the golf course Monday morning when Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly's Stay at Home order went into effect due to the coronavirus pandemic.Several area courses remained open. Jeff Boyle, director of parks, received a lot of phone calls and emails from disgruntled local golfers.&nbsp;Boyle worked with the state to allow the municipal course to reopen in a safe manner. New course rules were compiled to provide the opportunity to play golf while following the restrictions outlined in EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 20-16.&nbsp;The new rules are available on the city's <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/2927/Golf-Course-Covid-19-Response?bidId=">website</a>.&nbsp;

Golf course rule altered, allows family members in same cart

The Eagle Radio of Hays Online Auction has begun!

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/eagle-radio-auction">HERE</a> to see all the latest deals from local merchants.

Register, bid and buy from the comfort of your own home!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585591783968.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Eagle Radio of Hays Online Auction has begun!Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/eagle-radio-auction">HERE</a> to see all the latest deals from local merchants.Register, bid and buy from the comfort of your own home!

Eagle Radio Online Auction has begun!

The City of Hays plans to reopen&nbsp;Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course with revamped rules, according to a news release Thursday.

Changes include allowing only one person per cart, using the window on the north side of the pro shop for customer transactions and other methods of social distancing.

See the complete set of guidelines below.

Congregations of people and things people have to touch figured into the&nbsp; decision to completely close the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course and Hays Dog Park on Monday, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.

All other Hays parks and walking trails remain open, although playground equipment, shelter houses and restrooms are off-limits while Gov. Laura Kelly's Stay at Home Executive Order is in place.&nbsp;

"The access point to the golf course is the club house," Bielser said Tuesday, "and that's not an essential business listed under the executive order. So we determined, and it was a difficult decision, in order to control that access to close the course."

City Parks Department employees remain on the job at the golf course.

"We're here taking care of the grounds as we would normally," Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course Superintendent Kevin Kamphaus said late Wednesday morning.

Fighting the gusty southerly wind, one part-time seasonal worker was watering new grass that has been planted to replace a deteriorated asphalt driveway to golf cart sheds.&nbsp;

A lot of local golfers are unhappy about the closure, according to Jeff Boyle, director of parks, and he's received&nbsp;numerous phone calls and emails.

Boyle is reviewing the situation and has been in touch with the state. 

Other golf courses in the area remain open, albeit with&nbsp; new rules in place, he said.

"Whether those are actually meeting the state order, I haven't had a response on a couple of those items yet.

"I'm trying to come up with a possible plan for the city manager to review to maybe go a different direction," Boyle said.

There are other concerns about using the golf course.

"The normal way to play is when you get on the green, you grab the flag pole and remove it, then putt your ball into the hole. You reach into the plastic hole and pull out your ball when you're done.

"So there's contact right there in two different areas," Boyle pointed out. "And, there's typically two people to a cart which doesn't provide the social distancing expectations of the state.

"There's a lot of little things like that going on that caused us to close the course."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585779969701.png" alt="The Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course was closed Monday by the city following the governor's stay-at-home executive order. Director of Parks Jeff Boyle hopes to reopen the course with some rule changes that would adhere to the state edict." />
 <figcaption>The Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course was closed Monday by the city following the governor's stay-at-home executive order. Director of Parks Jeff Boyle hopes to reopen the course with some rule changes that would adhere to the state edict.</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED: 12:30 p.m. ThursdayThe City of Hays plans to reopen&nbsp;Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course with revamped rules, according to a news release Thursday.Changes include allowing only one person per cart, using the window on the north side of the pro shop for customer transactions and other methods of social distancing.See the complete set of guidelines below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585848694171.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>---------------------------By BECKY KISER Hays PostCongregations of people and things people have to touch figured into the&nbsp; decision to completely close the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course and Hays Dog Park on Monday, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.All other Hays parks and walking trails remain open, although playground equipment, shelter houses and restrooms are off-limits while Gov. Laura Kelly's Stay at Home Executive Order is in place.&nbsp;"The access point to the golf course is the club house," Bielser said Tuesday, "and that's not an essential business listed under the executive order. So we determined, and it was a difficult decision, in order to control that access to close the course."City Parks Department employees remain on the job at the golf course."We're here taking care of the grounds as we would normally," Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course Superintendent Kevin Kamphaus said late Wednesday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585780285022.png" alt="Hays Parks Department employees continue working at the closed municipal golf course." />
 <figcaption>Hays Parks Department employees continue working at the closed municipal golf course.</figcaption>
 </figure>Fighting the gusty southerly wind, one part-time seasonal worker was watering new grass that has been planted to replace a deteriorated asphalt driveway to golf cart sheds.&nbsp;A lot of local golfers are unhappy about the closure, according to Jeff Boyle, director of parks, and he's received&nbsp;numerous phone calls and emails.Boyle is reviewing the situation and has been in touch with the state. Other golf courses in the area remain open, albeit with&nbsp; new rules in place, he said."Whether those are actually meeting the state order, I haven't had a response on a couple of those items yet."I'm trying to come up with a possible plan for the city manager to review to maybe go a different direction," Boyle said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585792075214.png" alt="Blocked access to the golf cart path&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Blocked access to the golf cart path&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>There are other concerns about using the golf course."The normal way to play is when you get on the green, you grab the flag pole and remove it, then putt your ball into the hole. You reach into the plastic hole and pull out your ball when you're done."So there's contact right there in two different areas," Boyle pointed out. "And, there's typically two people to a cart which doesn't provide the social distancing expectations of the state."There's a lot of little things like that going on that caused us to close the course."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585780394945.png" alt="The Hays Dog Park is closed. Other Hays parks and trails remain open, although there is no access to playground equipment, shelters or restrooms." />
 <figcaption>The Hays Dog Park is closed. Other Hays parks and trails remain open, although there is no access to playground equipment, shelters or restrooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>

UPDATE: Hays golf course will reopen with new rules

ACCESS Transportation would like to inform the public that
ACCESS Transportation will be suspending all services at 6:00 pm this Friday,
April the 3rd and will reopen when Kansas Governor Kelly lifts the
Stay At Home Order. 

ACCESS has decided to suspend all services in Hays and Ellis
County for the time being&nbsp; in the wake of
the COVID-19 pandemic in Kansas. 

ACCESS Transportation apologizes for any inconvenience this
may cause but ACCESS Transportation must try to do our part in helping contain
this pandemic that is spreading across our great state of Kansas.

With ACCESS Transportation closing until the Stay At Home
Order has been lifted, the Safe Ride program, which is funded by the
Partnership for a Safer Community and Fort Hays State University will also be
suspended and will not be operating on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights. 

&nbsp;Also, the Tiger Route
that is funded by Fort Hays State University will also be suspended and will
not be operating on Wednesday, Friday or Saturday.

Again, we apologize for the inconvenience this may cause and
hope everybody stays safe and we look forward to serving the great community
Hays and Ellis County as soon as possible.

Information will be submitted to the media (Hays Post, and
posted on our DSNWK Facebook page and website if anything changes.

For more information about ACCESS Public Transportation,
please visit www.DSNWK.org or&nbsp; contact
our dispatch office at ACCESS Transportation at 785-625-1052.

ACCESS TransportationACCESS Transportation would like to inform the public that
ACCESS Transportation will be suspending all services at 6:00 pm this Friday,
April the 3rd and will reopen when Kansas Governor Kelly lifts the
Stay At Home Order. ACCESS has decided to suspend all services in Hays and Ellis
County for the time being&nbsp; in the wake of
the COVID-19 pandemic in Kansas. ACCESS Transportation apologizes for any inconvenience this
may cause but ACCESS Transportation must try to do our part in helping contain
this pandemic that is spreading across our great state of Kansas.With ACCESS Transportation closing until the Stay At Home
Order has been lifted, the Safe Ride program, which is funded by the
Partnership for a Safer Community and Fort Hays State University will also be
suspended and will not be operating on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights. &nbsp;Also, the Tiger Route
that is funded by Fort Hays State University will also be suspended and will
not be operating on Wednesday, Friday or Saturday.Again, we apologize for the inconvenience this may cause and
hope everybody stays safe and we look forward to serving the great community
Hays and Ellis County as soon as possible.Information will be submitted to the media (Hays Post, and
posted on our DSNWK Facebook page and website if anything changes.For more information about ACCESS Public Transportation,
please visit www.DSNWK.org or&nbsp; contact
our dispatch office at ACCESS Transportation at 785-625-1052.

ACCESS suspending services Friday

With almost all social events canceled in light of COVID-19 precautions, Billy Briney, owner of Briney Motorsports, has created a contest with the aim of getting people out and about — while maintaining social distancing.

The Sunflower Scavenger Hunt is set to begin Saturday and end at 4 p.m. Easter Sunday.

"This is an event get everybody away from each other, but do something together," Briney said.

"About this time every year, we have racing going on, so everybody's going to the races or the kids are in sports. Now everybody is stuck at home," Briney said. "We came up with this idea to get out into the country and get some fresh air."

Anyone interested in participating will start by visiting the Briney Motorsports website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brineymotorsports.com/">brineymotorsports.com</a>.

After registering, participants will be directed to download an app to play.

"On that app, there will be a series of missions," Briney said. "On those missions, you are going to get out and ride, get out in the country. You are going to do things like take a picture by a windmill with your UTV, you are going to take a video of driving through water with your UTV, maybe take a picture of a historical marker in your area."

For every submission, you will be awarded points, and every 100 points earns an entry into the grand prize drawing.

"It's just a bunch of fun things to go out and do," Briney said.

They will also be offering challenges on their Facebook page that will offer even more chances to win.

"It's simple. Let's get out and ride," Briney said.

"Having an 'event' is what is cool about it, especially with the app. You are competing and trying try to win prizes, but you are away from everybody," he said.

"It's pretty simple, but I think it's going to be fun," Briney said. "I think everyone is going to enjoy it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585675703113.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostWith almost all social events canceled in light of COVID-19 precautions, Billy Briney, owner of Briney Motorsports, has created a contest with the aim of getting people out and about — while maintaining social distancing.The Sunflower Scavenger Hunt is set to begin Saturday and end at 4 p.m. Easter Sunday."This is an event get everybody away from each other, but do something together," Briney said."About this time every year, we have racing going on, so everybody's going to the races or the kids are in sports. Now everybody is stuck at home," Briney said. "We came up with this idea to get out into the country and get some fresh air."Anyone interested in participating will start by visiting the Briney Motorsports website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brineymotorsports.com/">brineymotorsports.com</a>.After registering, participants will be directed to download an app to play."On that app, there will be a series of missions," Briney said. "On those missions, you are going to get out and ride, get out in the country. You are going to do things like take a picture by a windmill with your UTV, you are going to take a video of driving through water with your UTV, maybe take a picture of a historical marker in your area."For every submission, you will be awarded points, and every 100 points earns an entry into the grand prize drawing.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbrineymotorsports%2Fvideos%2F514623275867571%2F&show_text=0&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>"It's just a bunch of fun things to go out and do," Briney said.They will also be offering challenges on their Facebook page that will offer even more chances to win."It's simple. Let's get out and ride," Briney said."Having an 'event' is what is cool about it, especially with the app. You are competing and trying try to win prizes, but you are away from everybody," he said."It's pretty simple, but I think it's going to be fun," Briney said. "I think everyone is going to enjoy it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585675752412.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Sunflower Scavenger Hunt to bring people together while keeping them apart

To reinforce healthy practices and to maintain social distancing, Ellis Junior/Senior High School faculty and staff will bag students' personal items for pick up.

If students have items in teachers' classrooms, students need to email their teachers so the items can be included in their bags.

Laptops and chargers will be checked out to junior high students at that time as long as the agreement is signed. (Mr. Herrman will be emailing a link to the <a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=6P3-AFCkDESZ5yJX58x0RhozDWUIHlNBhQ8g9hZ9snhURE8zMjFCOTlXSDdOSjRXRDNKSVpJVlE0UC4u&amp;fbclid=IwAR3B3H5yavZahDGi-NCub5kljUIofT0W1qLrsAKcB9kvMr6y5iajX6YXc28">form.</a>)&nbsp;

** Enter the circle drive and remain in your vehicle! A staff member will bring your items to you!

Uniforms and library books can be turned in when you are picking up your personal items. (Please bag items to be returned.) All other items can be returned when we have a check-in at the end of the year.

If you are unable to make the assigned time, please call the office at 782-726-3151.

Washington Elementary school will have the same pickup schedule.

Elementary parents will also have to fill out the device form for you to take your child's I-pad home with you. If you have questions please call/text the school cell at 726-1505.

To reinforce healthy practices and to maintain social distancing, Washington Grade School faculty and staff will bag students' personal items and school work to complete this semester for pick up.

There will be specific items in the bags that will be used for the remainder of the school year for educational purposes.

Please do not throw away any item we are sending home that pertains to your child’s education.

Ipads and chargers will be checked out to all students when they pick up other items if the usage agreement form has been signed. Mr. Herrman has sent this out via email.

These items will be picked up in the circle drive, as parents drive in, the school will have staff go into the building to collect your child’s belongings and bring it to your vehicle.

Thank you for your understanding in these trying times. Faculty will start working with their students’ on lessons and assignments Monday, April 6.

Library books can be turned in when you are picking up your personal items. (Please bag items to be returned.)

USD 388To reinforce healthy practices and to maintain social distancing, Ellis Junior/Senior High School faculty and staff will bag students' personal items for pick up.If students have items in teachers' classrooms, students need to email their teachers so the items can be included in their bags.Laptops and chargers will be checked out to junior high students at that time as long as the agreement is signed. (Mr. Herrman will be emailing a link to the <a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=6P3-AFCkDESZ5yJX58x0RhozDWUIHlNBhQ8g9hZ9snhURE8zMjFCOTlXSDdOSjRXRDNKSVpJVlE0UC4u&amp;fbclid=IwAR3B3H5yavZahDGi-NCub5kljUIofT0W1qLrsAKcB9kvMr6y5iajX6YXc28">form.</a>)&nbsp;** Enter the circle drive and remain in your vehicle! A staff member will bring your items to you!1st opportunity: Thursday, April 2A-E 9-10 a.m.F-L 10-11 a.m.M-Z 11 a.m.-noon2nd opportunity: Thursday, April 2A-J 5-6 p.m.K-Z 6-7 p.m.Uniforms and library books can be turned in when you are picking up your personal items. (Please bag items to be returned.) All other items can be returned when we have a check-in at the end of the year.If you are unable to make the assigned time, please call the office at 782-726-3151.Washington Elementary school will have the same pickup schedule.Elementary parents will also have to fill out the device form for you to take your child's I-pad home with you. If you have questions please call/text the school cell at 726-1505.To reinforce healthy practices and to maintain social distancing, Washington Grade School faculty and staff will bag students' personal items and school work to complete this semester for pick up.There will be specific items in the bags that will be used for the remainder of the school year for educational purposes.Please do not throw away any item we are sending home that pertains to your child’s education.Ipads and chargers will be checked out to all students when they pick up other items if the usage agreement form has been signed. Mr. Herrman has sent this out via email.These items will be picked up in the circle drive, as parents drive in, the school will have staff go into the building to collect your child’s belongings and bring it to your vehicle.Thank you for your understanding in these trying times. Faculty will start working with their students’ on lessons and assignments Monday, April 6.Library books can be turned in when you are picking up your personal items. (Please bag items to be returned.)

Ellis schools set personal belonging pickup schedule

The USD 388 Board of Education will have a special board meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2 to discuss the district's continuous learning plan.

Please see the <a href="http://www.usd388.k12.ks.us/">USD 388 webpage</a> for details on how to virtually attend the meeting via Zoom and access the agenda.

The USD 388 Board of Education will have a special board meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2 to discuss the district's continuous learning plan.This will be a virtual meeting.Please see the <a href="http://www.usd388.k12.ks.us/">USD 388 webpage</a> for details on how to virtually attend the meeting via Zoom and access the agenda.

Ellis USD 388 board sets meeting to discuss learning plan

The Ellis County Health Department has released a list of local businesses offering "safe shopping hours" for seniors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585688540835.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department has released a list of local businesses offering "safe shopping hours" for seniors.

'Safe shopping' hours at Walmart, Dillons, dollar stores

Playground equipment in Hays city parks has been roped off and cannot be utilized following the governor's statewide&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e7fed84afae0f4d5f5e6e07">"Stay at Home" Executive Order</a>&nbsp;issued Saturday, March 28.

Gov. Laura Kelly's order became effective Monday morning and Hays Parks Department employees spent the day roping off play equipment and shelters in the city's parks, posting "Closed" signs nearby.

"The parks and walking trails remain open," Collin Bielser, asst. city manager said Monday afternoon, "but restrooms, playground equipment, and shelters are closed. This includes the Hays Dog Park and the municipal golf course."&nbsp;

Park restrooms are routinely closed and the water shut off during the winter months. They had not yet been reopened for the season.

"We encourage the public to follow the guidelines for social distancing at city parks," Bielser added. CDC guidelines for social distancing are six feet of separation between people and no more than 10 people gathered in one place.

The governor's Executive Order 20-16, <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf">https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf</a>, remains in force until&nbsp;rescinded, until April 19th, or until the Statewide Disaster Emergency Declaration expires, whichever is earliest.

Government operations are specifically defined as an essential function and the city of Hays continues to provide all essential services, although city buildings remain closed to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585607259260.png" alt="A merry-g0-round is roped off in the playground area of Ekey Park, 17th and Holmes Rd., in Hays Monday. All playground equipment in the city's parks, which remain open, was closed today in response to the governor's "Stay at Home" order." />
 <figcaption>A merry-g0-round is roped off in the playground area of Ekey Park, 17th and Holmes Rd., in Hays Monday. All playground equipment in the city's parks, which remain open, was closed today in response to the governor's "Stay at Home" order.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostPlayground equipment in Hays city parks has been roped off and cannot be utilized following the governor's statewide&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e7fed84afae0f4d5f5e6e07">"Stay at Home" Executive Order</a>&nbsp;issued Saturday, March 28.Gov. Laura Kelly's order became effective Monday morning and Hays Parks Department employees spent the day roping off play equipment and shelters in the city's parks, posting "Closed" signs nearby."The parks and walking trails remain open," Collin Bielser, asst. city manager said Monday afternoon, "but restrooms, playground equipment, and shelters are closed. This includes the Hays Dog Park and the municipal golf course."&nbsp;Park restrooms are routinely closed and the water shut off during the winter months. They had not yet been reopened for the season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585607227389.png" alt="Swings are zip-tied to the tops of swing sets&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Swings are zip-tied to the tops of swing sets&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"We encourage the public to follow the guidelines for social distancing at city parks," Bielser added. CDC guidelines for social distancing are six feet of separation between people and no more than 10 people gathered in one place.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585607412496.png" alt="Roped-off shelter area in Ekey Park" />
 <figcaption>Roped-off shelter area in Ekey Park</figcaption>
 </figure>The governor's Executive Order 20-16, <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf">https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf</a>, remains in force until&nbsp;rescinded, until April 19th, or until the Statewide Disaster Emergency Declaration expires, whichever is earliest.Government operations are specifically defined as an essential function and the city of Hays continues to provide all essential services, although city buildings remain closed to the public.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585607707940.png" alt="Roped-off playground equipment in Sunrise Park, 19th and McArthur (Photo courtesy Theresa Trapp)" />
 <figcaption>Roped-off playground equipment in Sunrise Park, 19th and McArthur (Photo courtesy Theresa Trapp)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Playground equipment closed, city parks remain open 

Service industry workers across the world are
already being hurt by social distancing recommendations and the economic
effects of COVID-19, and many servers, bartenders, and other industry folks are
being told they may not have a reliable source of income for a couple of
months. 

Many of these people rely heavily on the tips they receive while at
work.

We’ve built a way to support our bartenders,
waiters, and servers while we are hunkered down at home. 

This will not completely solve our neighbors' financial
challenges, but we have been told again and again by our server and bartender
friends that it is a great morale booster to see a sign that someone cares.

Go to <a href="https://serviceindustry.tips/en/ks/hays/">https://serviceindustry.tips/en/ks/hays/</a>. We will present you with a randomly selected worker in the
service industry from the Hays area and show where they work.

You can then send
them money directly with Venmo or Cash App. 

We don’t charge a fee and don’t
collect any of your data.

We suggest tipping the first worker, so everyone
gets a turn. Or you can refresh the page to see another name.

If you are a service industry worker:

Go to <a href="https://serviceindustry.tips/en/signup/?city_code=HYS">https://serviceindustry.tips/en/signup/?city_code=HYS</a>. Fill out a simple form to be added to the list!

Then, please share
this link with others you know who work in the service industry. 

ServiceIndustry.tips was started in Chattanooga,
Tenn., by Dan, Donald, and Galen, with help from Matt in Denver. 

The purpose
of this service is simply to allow people to support those who work in the food
and beverage industry, or those whose income is largely tip-based, during the
COVID-19 crisis. 

The site is rapidly growing. Select your city and fill out a simple
form to be added to the list.

Our reach is rapidly expanding with a presence
in over 100 cities across 48 states in the US. 

In the last week alone, more
than 55,000 tips have been sent across the country. 

Brooks Barber is the volunteer administrator for
the Hays area. 

As of Friday afternoon, Hays, Lawrence, and Wichita are
currently covered by ServiceIndustry.tips.

For more information, visit <a href="https://serviceindustry.tips/">https://serviceindustry.tips/</a>, or contact Brooks at <a href="mailto:brooks.serviceindustrytips@gmail.com">brooks.serviceindustrytips@gmail.com</a>.

SubmittedService industry workers across the world are
already being hurt by social distancing recommendations and the economic
effects of COVID-19, and many servers, bartenders, and other industry folks are
being told they may not have a reliable source of income for a couple of
months. Many of these people rely heavily on the tips they receive while at
work.We’ve built a way to support our bartenders,
waiters, and servers while we are hunkered down at home. It’s simple and it’s
totally free. This will not completely solve our neighbors' financial
challenges, but we have been told again and again by our server and bartender
friends that it is a great morale booster to see a sign that someone cares.How It Works:If you are able to tip:Go to <a href="https://serviceindustry.tips/en/ks/hays/">https://serviceindustry.tips/en/ks/hays/</a>. We will present you with a randomly selected worker in the
service industry from the Hays area and show where they work. You can then send
them money directly with Venmo or Cash App. We don’t charge a fee and don’t
collect any of your data.We suggest tipping the first worker, so everyone
gets a turn. Or you can refresh the page to see another name.If you are a service industry worker:Go to <a href="https://serviceindustry.tips/en/signup/?city_code=HYS">https://serviceindustry.tips/en/signup/?city_code=HYS</a>. Fill out a simple form to be added to the list! Then, please share
this link with others you know who work in the service industry. About Service Industry Tips:ServiceIndustry.tips was started in Chattanooga,
Tenn., by Dan, Donald, and Galen, with help from Matt in Denver. The purpose
of this service is simply to allow people to support those who work in the food
and beverage industry, or those whose income is largely tip-based, during the
COVID-19 crisis. The site is rapidly growing. Select your city and fill out a simple
form to be added to the list.Our reach is rapidly expanding with a presence
in over 100 cities across 48 states in the US. In the last week alone, more
than 55,000 tips have been sent across the country. Brooks Barber is the volunteer administrator for
the Hays area. As of Friday afternoon, Hays, Lawrence, and Wichita are
currently covered by ServiceIndustry.tips.For more information, visit <a href="https://serviceindustry.tips/">https://serviceindustry.tips/</a>, or contact Brooks at <a href="mailto:brooks.serviceindustrytips@gmail.com">brooks.serviceindustrytips@gmail.com</a>.

Website offers support to service industry workers in Hays area

Russell&nbsp; will be dragging main again from 7 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Dream Theater.

Russell&nbsp; will be dragging main again from 7 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Dream Theater.

Cruise night set for Sunday in Russell

The Downtown Hays Development Corp. announced Wednesday it will postpone its annual Brews on the Bricks event until Aug. 29 in light of the coronavirus outbreak.

DHDC said in a Facebook post that it will refund the ticket price for people who will not be able to attend the August event.

"We are asking that refunds be requested before July 30, 2020. We also ask that you consider donating the cost of your tickets to DHDC, a 501c3 non-profit organization. We appreciate any and all support that helps us continue to grow and market Downtown Hays," the post said.

The fundraiser supports DHDC operations and is its largest fundraiser of the year.

If you purchased online and would like a refund, simply give DHDC a call at 785-621-4171. If you bought in office, message DHDC or email dhdc@downtownhays.com to set up an appointment to exchange your tickets for a check, the post said. If you would like to donate the cost of your tickets, email dhdc@downtownhays.com for the DHDC tax ID number.

"We are looking forward to making this Brews on the Bricks better than the previous years. While we are excited to welcome Kansas craft brewers back to Hays, we are even more excited to bring our Hays community back together!" the post said.

You can follow DHDC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays/">Facebook</a>. DHDC has also created a <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/covid19">COVID-19 page</a> on its website, which is up-to-date on business closings, special offerings and disaster assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585248708783.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Downtown Hays Development Corp. announced Wednesday it will postpone its annual Brews on the Bricks event until Aug. 29 in light of the coronavirus outbreak.The event was scheduled for May.DHDC said in a Facebook post that it will refund the ticket price for people who will not be able to attend the August event."We are asking that refunds be requested before July 30, 2020. We also ask that you consider donating the cost of your tickets to DHDC, a 501c3 non-profit organization. We appreciate any and all support that helps us continue to grow and market Downtown Hays," the post said.The fundraiser supports DHDC operations and is its largest fundraiser of the year.If you purchased online and would like a refund, simply give DHDC a call at 785-621-4171. If you bought in office, message DHDC or email dhdc@downtownhays.com to set up an appointment to exchange your tickets for a check, the post said. If you would like to donate the cost of your tickets, email dhdc@downtownhays.com for the DHDC tax ID number."We are looking forward to making this Brews on the Bricks better than the previous years. While we are excited to welcome Kansas craft brewers back to Hays, we are even more excited to bring our Hays community back together!" the post said.You can follow DHDC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays/">Facebook</a>. DHDC has also created a <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/covid19">COVID-19 page</a> on its website, which is up-to-date on business closings, special offerings and disaster assistance.

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