PHILLIPS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Friday in Phillips County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Ford F150 driven by James Edgar Bass, 61, Phillipsburg, was westbound on U.S. 36 one mile west of Prairie View.

The driver had a medical episode causing the pickup to strike the bridge guardrail on the south side of the road.

The pickup then crossed the roadway striking the guardrail on the north side. The pickup came to rest one mile east of the bridge on the south side of the road.

EMS transported&nbsp;Bass and a passenger Wanda Lee Bass, 60, to the hospital in Phillipsburg.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Friday in Phillips County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Ford F150 driven by James Edgar Bass, 61, Phillipsburg, was westbound on U.S. 36 one mile west of Prairie View.The driver had a medical episode causing the pickup to strike the bridge guardrail on the south side of the road.The pickup then crossed the roadway striking the guardrail on the north side. The pickup came to rest one mile east of the bridge on the south side of the road.EMS transported&nbsp;Bass and a passenger Wanda Lee Bass, 60, to the hospital in Phillipsburg.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Couple from Phillipsburg hospitalized after pickup strikes rail

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<div><iframe title="Food safety ever important" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/j2gzs-ec2024?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><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: Food borne illness easy to prevent with basic measures

RUSSELL — Russell Regional Hospital announced via social media Thursday that six staff members have tested positive for COVID-19.

"As you are aware, there has recently been an increase in positive cases in Russell as well as the surrounding counties. Unfortunately, this has impacted Russell Regional Hospital," wrote Sharon Collins, hospital CEO. "In the last several days a number of our staff (6) have tested positive for COVID-19. All was maintained to a small single department except for 2 cases. I want to ensure you that all precautions have been taken with the individuals that tested positive."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600450367243.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL — Russell Regional Hospital announced via social media Thursday that six staff members have tested positive for COVID-19."As you are aware, there has recently been an increase in positive cases in Russell as well as the surrounding counties. Unfortunately, this has impacted Russell Regional Hospital," wrote Sharon Collins, hospital CEO. "In the last several days a number of our staff (6) have tested positive for COVID-19. All was maintained to a small single department except for 2 cases. I want to ensure you that all precautions have been taken with the individuals that tested positive."Read the entire announcement below:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRussellRegionalHospital%2Fposts%2F4316659591739743&width=500" width="500" height="245" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Staff members at Russell Regional Hospital test positive for virus

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced 25 new cases of COVID-19 have been identified in the county since Wednesday.

There are now 168 active cases, including eight active hospitalizations, and 567 recovered cases.

The seven-day percent of positive tests, which had been falling in late August and early September, jumped to 21.5 percent. Just less than 13 percent of the 5,561 total tests have returned positive for COVID-19.

According to the department's report Friday, there have been 738 total cases of coronavirus in Ellis County, including three deaths, since reporting began.

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced 25 new cases of COVID-19 have been identified in the county since Wednesday.There are now 168 active cases, including eight active hospitalizations, and 567 recovered cases.The seven-day percent of positive tests, which had been falling in late August and early September, jumped to 21.5 percent. Just less than 13 percent of the 5,561 total tests have returned positive for COVID-19.According to the department's report Friday, there have been 738 total cases of coronavirus in Ellis County, including three deaths, since reporting began.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600445653733.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

25 new cases of COVID-19 in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 6.9 percent in August. This was a decrease from 7.2 percent in July and an increase from 3.1 percent in August 2019.

“Data for August demonstrates continued progress in Kansas with the unemployment rate and job growth moving in the right direction,” said Acting Secretary Ryan Wright. “While we have seen continued improvement, KDOL remains committed to serving our claimants' needs during this time as more than 96,000 individuals received unemployment insurance benefits in August." 

In Ellis County, the jobless rate continued to fall after the May spike caused by the pandemic. The unemployment rate was 3.9 percent in August, compared to 4.2 percent in July.

Graham County  posted the highest jobless rate in northwest Kansas at 6.5 percent, while Russell, Rooks, Rush and Barton counties all had unemployment rates at or above 5 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 9,300 from July. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 5,500 from the previous month, while government increased by 3,800.

“In August, Kansas employers added jobs for the fourth consecutive month,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “Since April, total nonfarm jobs have increased by 74,900, representing a recovery of 52.0 percent of jobs lost during March and April."

Since August 2019, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 61,400. This change is due to a decrease of 53,800 private sector jobs and 7,600 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600444247700.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 6.9 percent in August. This was a decrease from 7.2 percent in July and an increase from 3.1 percent in August 2019.“Data for August demonstrates continued progress in Kansas with the unemployment rate and job growth moving in the right direction,” said Acting Secretary Ryan Wright. “While we have seen continued improvement, KDOL remains committed to serving our claimants' needs during this time as more than 96,000 individuals received unemployment insurance benefits in August." In Ellis County, the jobless rate continued to fall after the May spike caused by the pandemic. The unemployment rate was 3.9 percent in August, compared to 4.2 percent in July.Graham County posted the highest jobless rate in northwest Kansas at 6.5 percent, while Russell, Rooks, Rush and Barton counties all had unemployment rates at or above 5 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 9,300 from July. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 5,500 from the previous month, while government increased by 3,800.“In August, Kansas employers added jobs for the fourth consecutive month,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “Since April, total nonfarm jobs have increased by 74,900, representing a recovery of 52.0 percent of jobs lost during March and April."Since August 2019, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 61,400. This change is due to a decrease of 53,800 private sector jobs and 7,600 government jobs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600444291655.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Jobless rate in Ellis County dips below 4% for first time since May 

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

——————————————

Josiah David Hunter, 23, was arrested at 9:56 p.m. Sept. 15 in the 200 block of East 13th on suspicion of telephone harassment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>——————————————Josiah David Hunter, 23, was arrested at 9:56 p.m. Sept. 15 in the 200 block of East 13th on suspicion of telephone harassment.

HPD arrest log, Sept. 14 to 16

After a two-month investigation involving the Bloomfield Township (Mich.) Police Department and the
Oakland County (Mich.) Sheriff's Office's Computer Crimes Unit, the Ellis County Sheriff's Office along with
the assistance of the Ellis Police Department executed a residential search warrant in the 700 block of
Jefferson St. in Ellis at 4:10 p.m. Thursday.


Law enforcement officers sought evidence of sexual exploitation of a children and seized multiple
computer systems, cellular devices and digital media. A 48-year-old Ellis resident was arrested in
connection to the investigation and later booked into the Ellis County jail.


Suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This is an ongoing investigation and no further details will be released at this time.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600444921352.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Sheriff's OfficeAfter a two-month investigation involving the Bloomfield Township (Mich.) Police Department and the
Oakland County (Mich.) Sheriff's Office's Computer Crimes Unit, the Ellis County Sheriff's Office along with
the assistance of the Ellis Police Department executed a residential search warrant in the 700 block of
Jefferson St. in Ellis at 4:10 p.m. Thursday.
Law enforcement officers sought evidence of sexual exploitation of a children and seized multiple
computer systems, cellular devices and digital media. A 48-year-old Ellis resident was arrested in
connection to the investigation and later booked into the Ellis County jail.
Suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This is an ongoing investigation and no further details will be released at this time.

Ellis resident arrested after child sex exploitation investigation

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A former member of the Fort Hays State wrestling and
soccer teams accused of sexually assaulting a woman in December pleaded not
guilty to several charges including rape Thursday in Ellis County District
Court.

Efe Osaghae, St. Louis, pleaded not guilty, via a Zoom
hearing, to rape, aggravated criminal sodomy, aggravated battery and aggravated
burglary.

According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2019, Osaghae
allegedly entered a 19-year-old’s residence without permission and sexually
assaulted the victim. He is also accused of choking the victim.

Due to the pandemic, courts in Kansas are not currently
allowed to hold jury trials.

District Judge Glenn Braun said during Thursday’s hearing
that they are working on a plan to restart jury trials in the coming months. He
said he expects Osaghae’s trial to be held after the new year.

A status hearing in the case is scheduled Jan. 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600434512769.png" alt="Osaghae / Ellis Co. photo" />
 <figcaption>Osaghae / Ellis Co. photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA former member of the Fort Hays State wrestling and
soccer teams accused of sexually assaulting a woman in December pleaded not
guilty to several charges including rape Thursday in Ellis County District
Court.Efe Osaghae, St. Louis, pleaded not guilty, via a Zoom
hearing, to rape, aggravated criminal sodomy, aggravated battery and aggravated
burglary.According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2019, Osaghae
allegedly entered a 19-year-old’s residence without permission and sexually
assaulted the victim. He is also accused of choking the victim.Due to the pandemic, courts in Kansas are not currently
allowed to hold jury trials.District Judge Glenn Braun said during Thursday’s hearing
that they are working on a plan to restart jury trials in the coming months. He
said he expects Osaghae’s trial to be held after the new year.A status hearing in the case is scheduled Jan. 4.

Former FHSU athlete pleads not guilty to sex crimes

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 has a new program to help students who are struggling with mental health issues.

Last fall, thanks to a grant from the Kansas Department of Education and Association of Community Health Centers, Jamie Malone was hired to work at HMS as a behavioral health liaison.

The goal of the program has been to provide greater access to mental health services for school-age children. It is a collaborative effort between USD 489 and High Plains Mental Health, which is the community mental health center for the Hays area.

The program designers knew there were barriers for many school-age children to receive care because of transportation issues, Malone said. Some students did not live in proximity to the mental health centers. Some parents also had difficulty taking off work to take children to mental health appointments.&nbsp;

Officials also knew students were not always coming back to school after their appointments.

In November 2019, the Hays program was able to begin offering recovering services at HMS for students through a case manager from High Plains Mental Health. The services were offered in the school during the school day or after school.

In January, the program began offering school-based individual therapy.&nbsp;

Students were scheduled for therapy sessions during elective courses.

"Services provided at the school reduced the barriers of transportation, parents having to take off from work and kids not going back to class after their therapy sessions," Malone said.

&nbsp;In February, the recovery specialist started an onsite therapy group after school.

However, those in-person meetings had to stop when the schools were closed due to COVID-19.

The services continued through Zoom and phone calls during the shut down. Students were allowed to use their school-issued iPads to meet with High Plains staff over Zoom during the shut down.

Forty-seven students were served through the program in its first year.

Of the students being served, 61 percent saw improvement in school attendance, 71 percent improved their academic engagement, 61 percent showed improvement in internal behaviors and 72 percent showed improvement in external behaviors.

Internal behaviors might be anxiety, depression or physical symptoms that might indicate mental health struggles, such as headache or stomach problems, Malone said.

External behaviors are actions you can see and count such as referrals to the office, acting out in the classroom or trips to the nurse's office.

This fall, the program was expanded and a second behavior health liaison, Lyndsey Crisenbery, was hired for Hays High School.

The grant pays for 75 percent of Malone's and Crisenbery's salaries and benefits and provides a stipend to High Plains for its services.

"I am blown away by how well this program is put together," Board President Mike Walker said.

Board member Craig Pallister said, "This has been a problem for years. I am glad to see the intervention is involved in the schools now."

Board member Tammy Wellbrock asked Malone how she thought the pandemic is impacting students and the demand for services offered by the program.

Malone said she has seen an increase in student anxiety. She said students are saying they feel they are behind and they are uncertain about what is going to happen this school year.

However, Malone said parents are reaching out seeking services early.

The program has the flexibility to make referrals for elementary school-age children as needed. Malone said she could see the program expanding in the future, but that is dependent on funding.

This is only one program of 56 statewide in the 2020-21 school year. Since this is a grant-supported program, funding has to be approved each year by the Kansas Legislature.

Malone suggested the school board urge legislators to continue funding for the program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600195946582.jpeg" alt="Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@judebeck?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Jude Beck</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/%22mental-illness%22?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@judebeck?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Jude Beck</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/%22mental-illness%22?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 has a new program to help students who are struggling with mental health issues.Last fall, thanks to a grant from the Kansas Department of Education and Association of Community Health Centers, Jamie Malone was hired to work at HMS as a behavioral health liaison.The goal of the program has been to provide greater access to mental health services for school-age children. It is a collaborative effort between USD 489 and High Plains Mental Health, which is the community mental health center for the Hays area.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AClvlGge52U"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>The program designers knew there were barriers for many school-age children to receive care because of transportation issues, Malone said. Some students did not live in proximity to the mental health centers. Some parents also had difficulty taking off work to take children to mental health appointments.&nbsp;Officials also knew students were not always coming back to school after their appointments.In November 2019, the Hays program was able to begin offering recovering services at HMS for students through a case manager from High Plains Mental Health. The services were offered in the school during the school day or after school.In January, the program began offering school-based individual therapy.&nbsp;Students were scheduled for therapy sessions during elective courses."Services provided at the school reduced the barriers of transportation, parents having to take off from work and kids not going back to class after their therapy sessions," Malone said.&nbsp;In February, the recovery specialist started an onsite therapy group after school.However, those in-person meetings had to stop when the schools were closed due to COVID-19.The services continued through Zoom and phone calls during the shut down. Students were allowed to use their school-issued iPads to meet with High Plains staff over Zoom during the shut down.Forty-seven students were served through the program in its first year.Of the students being served, 61 percent saw improvement in school attendance, 71 percent improved their academic engagement, 61 percent showed improvement in internal behaviors and 72 percent showed improvement in external behaviors.Internal behaviors might be anxiety, depression or physical symptoms that might indicate mental health struggles, such as headache or stomach problems, Malone said.External behaviors are actions you can see and count such as referrals to the office, acting out in the classroom or trips to the nurse's office.This fall, the program was expanded and a second behavior health liaison, Lyndsey Crisenbery, was hired for Hays High School.The grant pays for 75 percent of Malone's and Crisenbery's salaries and benefits and provides a stipend to High Plains for its services."I am blown away by how well this program is put together," Board President Mike Walker said.Board member Craig Pallister said, "This has been a problem for years. I am glad to see the intervention is involved in the schools now."Board member Tammy Wellbrock asked Malone how she thought the pandemic is impacting students and the demand for services offered by the program.Malone said she has seen an increase in student anxiety. She said students are saying they feel they are behind and they are uncertain about what is going to happen this school year.However, Malone said parents are reaching out seeking services early.The program has the flexibility to make referrals for elementary school-age children as needed. Malone said she could see the program expanding in the future, but that is dependent on funding.This is only one program of 56 statewide in the 2020-21 school year. Since this is a grant-supported program, funding has to be approved each year by the Kansas Legislature.Malone suggested the school board urge legislators to continue funding for the program.

Program offers mental health services to USD 489 students in school

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a2ac36cd-ba53-4726-8015-b36745719e54">After announcing student meals would be free beginning Sept. 9,</a> Hays USD 489 on Thursday said that the change would be retroactive to the beginning of the school year.

Meals purchase at regular or reduced price beginning Aug. 26 have been reimbursed into student meal accounts, the district said in an update to parents. A la carte purchases still are being charged.

"We are thankful for this opportunity and sincerely hope our USD 489 families take advantage and
benefit from this savings," the district said. "Thank you for allowing us to serve your children breakfast and lunch and
supporting your local school nutrition department!"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587078674452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a2ac36cd-ba53-4726-8015-b36745719e54">After announcing student meals would be free beginning Sept. 9,</a> Hays USD 489 on Thursday said that the change would be retroactive to the beginning of the school year.Meals purchase at regular or reduced price beginning Aug. 26 have been reimbursed into student meal accounts, the district said in an update to parents. A la carte purchases still are being charged."We are thankful for this opportunity and sincerely hope our USD 489 families take advantage and
benefit from this savings," the district said. "Thank you for allowing us to serve your children breakfast and lunch and
supporting your local school nutrition department!"

Free meals for Hays USD 489 student retroactive to Aug. 26

COVID-19 has fundamentally changed education in America. Digital literacy, the ability to leverage powerful learning technologies, is now an essential proficiency for teachers, administrators and learning technologists. 

Beginning&nbsp;in the spring of 2021, Fort Hays State University’s Department of Advanced Educational Programs will welcome its first class of rising educators and education administrators in the new Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) postgraduate program with a concentration in Digital Leadership.

Now, more than ever, teachers, trainers and leaders at all levels of education need to take advantage of emerging technologies and digital best practices that can bridge the time and distance challenges created by the global pandemic,” said Dr. Kim Chappell, who led the development of the program in FHSU’s College of Education.

This future-focused program is designed to develop leaders with the leadership skills essential to transforming any educational organization's digital culture. Graduates of the program will be prepared to create professional opportunities and advance in their role as a digital technology leader.

Education and academic technology administrators, as well as school principals and superintendents, can all benefit from this fully online,&nbsp;interdisciplinary program. Key areas of program focus are teaching, instructional design, informatics, and learning technologies. The program will be primarily offered via a series of flexible 4-week, one credit hour courses in the fall, spring and summer. Practicum and research courses are offered in 16-week sessions.

Founded as a teacher’s college on the edge of the Kansas frontier more than 100 years ago, FHSU is a nationally recognized leader in teacher education and educational leadership programs. The new Specialist in Education with a concentration on digital leadership represents yet another expansion in the University’s commitment to offering innovative, challenging and affordable programs that keep FHSU-trained education professionals on the cutting edge of innovation in teaching and leadership.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/aep/digital-leadership/">https://www.fhsu.edu/aep/digital-leadership/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600282649253.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsCOVID-19 has fundamentally changed education in America. Digital literacy, the ability to leverage powerful learning technologies, is now an essential proficiency for teachers, administrators and learning technologists. Beginning&nbsp;in the spring of 2021, Fort Hays State University’s Department of Advanced Educational Programs will welcome its first class of rising educators and education administrators in the new Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) postgraduate program with a concentration in Digital Leadership.Now, more than ever, teachers, trainers and leaders at all levels of education need to take advantage of emerging technologies and digital best practices that can bridge the time and distance challenges created by the global pandemic,” said Dr. Kim Chappell, who led the development of the program in FHSU’s College of Education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600282709533.jpeg" alt="Dr. Kim Chappell" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Kim Chappell</figcaption>
 </figure>This future-focused program is designed to develop leaders with the leadership skills essential to transforming any educational organization's digital culture. Graduates of the program will be prepared to create professional opportunities and advance in their role as a digital technology leader.Education and academic technology administrators, as well as school principals and superintendents, can all benefit from this fully online,&nbsp;interdisciplinary program. Key areas of program focus are teaching, instructional design, informatics, and learning technologies. The program will be primarily offered via a series of flexible 4-week, one credit hour courses in the fall, spring and summer. Practicum and research courses are offered in 16-week sessions.Founded as a teacher’s college on the edge of the Kansas frontier more than 100 years ago, FHSU is a nationally recognized leader in teacher education and educational leadership programs. The new Specialist in Education with a concentration on digital leadership represents yet another expansion in the University’s commitment to offering innovative, challenging and affordable programs that keep FHSU-trained education professionals on the cutting edge of innovation in teaching and leadership.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/aep/digital-leadership/">https://www.fhsu.edu/aep/digital-leadership/</a>.

New Advanced Educational Program focuses on digital leadership

American Red Cross blood drives held in counties served by the Central and Western Kansas Red Cross Chapter provide lifesaving blood to nearly 70 area hospitals, making sure blood is available for patients in need. Volunteer Blood Drive Ambassadors play a vital role at these blood drives – engaging with donors, enhancing the donation experience and helping to create long-time blood donors.

Right now, there are not enough Blood Drive Ambassadors to cover all area drives. If you have a few hours each month, you could be helping by taking temperatures, guiding blood donors through the donation process and making a difference for your community like Jackie Nichols, from the Garden City area.

In addition to serving with the Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services and as a disaster volunteer Jackie spent 20 years as chairperson for her church’s blood drive. While retiring from the chairperson position in 2012, she continues to volunteer at drives. “I believe you should never pass up an opportunity to show kindness to someone,” said Jackie. “This is what the Red Cross and its volunteers do every day. Whether it’s at some type of disaster or helping so there is always a safe supply of blood when needed.”

If you’d like to be a volunteer blood drive ambassador like Jackie in the Ellis, Barton and Saline counties, please contact Sherry Dryden, executive director, Red Cross Kansas/Oklahoma Region at 785-259-0956 or online at redcross.org/volunteer to learn more.

Sherry Dryden, Executive Director, Kansas/Oklahoma Region, serving Central and Western Kansas, American Red Cross

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586216031348.jpeg" alt="Sherry Dryden" />
 <figcaption>Sherry Dryden</figcaption>
 </figure>American Red Cross blood drives held in counties served by the Central and Western Kansas Red Cross Chapter provide lifesaving blood to nearly 70 area hospitals, making sure blood is available for patients in need. Volunteer Blood Drive Ambassadors play a vital role at these blood drives – engaging with donors, enhancing the donation experience and helping to create long-time blood donors.Right now, there are not enough Blood Drive Ambassadors to cover all area drives. If you have a few hours each month, you could be helping by taking temperatures, guiding blood donors through the donation process and making a difference for your community like Jackie Nichols, from the Garden City area.In addition to serving with the Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services and as a disaster volunteer Jackie spent 20 years as chairperson for her church’s blood drive. While retiring from the chairperson position in 2012, she continues to volunteer at drives. “I believe you should never pass up an opportunity to show kindness to someone,” said Jackie. “This is what the Red Cross and its volunteers do every day. Whether it’s at some type of disaster or helping so there is always a safe supply of blood when needed.”If you’d like to be a volunteer blood drive ambassador like Jackie in the Ellis, Barton and Saline counties, please contact Sherry Dryden, executive director, Red Cross Kansas/Oklahoma Region at 785-259-0956 or online at redcross.org/volunteer to learn more.Sherry Dryden, Executive Director, Kansas/Oklahoma Region, serving Central and Western Kansas, American Red Cross

RED CROSS: Volunteers needed for critical roles

Three-day weather outlook

The Hays High football team is at home for the first time in 2020 as the play host to the Liberal Redskins.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show set for 6:30.

&nbsp; You can also listen to the game on 96.9&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">KFIX</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays High football team is at home for the first time in 2020 as the play host to the Liberal Redskins.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show set for 6:30.<div><iframe width="750" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mLWLDtYo-xE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>&nbsp; You can also listen to the game on 96.9&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">KFIX</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 WATCH - Hays High hosts Liberal

By RICK BILLINGER 40th District Kansas State Senator

The 2020 Census is a very important event for all Americans and all Kansans. It is a paramount civic duty that not only shapes the future of our state but our local communities as well.&nbsp;

As we approach mid-September, I am encouraging all Kansans to participate in the 2020 Census. I urge anyone who has not filled out their Census form to please do so by; filing electronically, by phone, by using a paper form or by responding to a census enumerator.&nbsp;

Please file BEFORE September 30th. There are only 10 short and easy to answer questions. The impact that registering has on our state and the 40th Senate District are immense. Our census numbers determine how many congressional seats our state will have and determines how many federal dollars Kansas receives and where they are distributed. Your census responses are confidential and are only done every ten years. I encourage all family members, neighbors and friends to fill out their census forms. YOU MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES COUNT. The census can be completed by logging into <a href="http://www.kansascounts.org">www.kansascounts.org</a> or by phone at 844-330-2020.

Times are different, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but I hope to see many of the people in the 40th District as I campaign for re-election. If you are interested in helping with my campaign or would be willing to put a yard sign out, please contact me by email <a href="mailto:rb_rick@hotmail.com">rb_rick@hotmail.com</a> or text me at 785-899-4700.

Thank you in advance for helping to ensure that our local communities count and our voices are heard.

It is an honor and a pleasure to represent you and the 40th Senate District and I welcome your phone calls or emails.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576518921995.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RICK BILLINGER 40th District Kansas State SenatorThe 2020 Census is a very important event for all Americans and all Kansans. It is a paramount civic duty that not only shapes the future of our state but our local communities as well.&nbsp;As we approach mid-September, I am encouraging all Kansans to participate in the 2020 Census. I urge anyone who has not filled out their Census form to please do so by; filing electronically, by phone, by using a paper form or by responding to a census enumerator.&nbsp;Please file BEFORE September 30th. There are only 10 short and easy to answer questions. The impact that registering has on our state and the 40th Senate District are immense. Our census numbers determine how many congressional seats our state will have and determines how many federal dollars Kansas receives and where they are distributed. Your census responses are confidential and are only done every ten years. I encourage all family members, neighbors and friends to fill out their census forms. YOU MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES COUNT. The census can be completed by logging into <a href="http://www.kansascounts.org">www.kansascounts.org</a> or by phone at 844-330-2020.Times are different, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but I hope to see many of the people in the 40th District as I campaign for re-election. If you are interested in helping with my campaign or would be willing to put a yard sign out, please contact me by email <a href="mailto:rb_rick@hotmail.com">rb_rick@hotmail.com</a> or text me at 785-899-4700.Thank you in advance for helping to ensure that our local communities count and our voices are heard.It is an honor and a pleasure to represent you and the 40th Senate District and I welcome your phone calls or emails.

BILLINGER: Completing Census critical for NW Kan.

A&nbsp;Fort Hays State University COVID-19 re-entry testing program that coincided with the re-opening of campus for the fall semester finished in August. Beginning next week, a new COVID-19 surveillance testing program will begin. This new testing program for asymptomatic members of the campus community will supplement the ongoing symptomatic testing available in the Student Health Center.

The primary goal of the surveillance testing program is to monitor the prevalence of COVID-19 among the on-campus community.&nbsp;FHSU’s&nbsp;Critical Incident Policy Group (CIPG) led the effort to develop the new program after receiving input from University constituencies and local healthcare partners.&nbsp;

The surveillance testing program will sample a small number of individuals within a campus cohort. A cohort is a group of individuals in regular contact with one another. If a member of the cohort tests positive expanded testing for the group will be available.

Groups designated as a cohort, and the dates, times and locations of testing sessions&nbsp;are subject to change, but at this point, they include&nbsp;the following groupings:

Individuals in these cohort groups will be notified in advance and provided with additional details including timing, location, and any specific testing protocols. Testing is voluntary and based on self-collected saliva specimen kits.&nbsp;Surveillance testing is scheduled to start the week of September 21 and will continue into December.&nbsp;

FHSU’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/covid-19-response/index">COVID-19 Response website</a>&nbsp;is the primary source for information on the university’s ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, including a testing, quarantine and isolation data dashboard that is updated weekly. For more information, contact Chief Communications Officer, Scott Cason, at 785.628.4208 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sacason@fhsu.edu">sacason@fhsu.edu</a>.

FHSU University RelationsA&nbsp;Fort Hays State University COVID-19 re-entry testing program that coincided with the re-opening of campus for the fall semester finished in August. Beginning next week, a new COVID-19 surveillance testing program will begin. This new testing program for asymptomatic members of the campus community will supplement the ongoing symptomatic testing available in the Student Health Center.The primary goal of the surveillance testing program is to monitor the prevalence of COVID-19 among the on-campus community.&nbsp;FHSU’s&nbsp;Critical Incident Policy Group (CIPG) led the effort to develop the new program after receiving input from University constituencies and local healthcare partners.&nbsp;The surveillance testing program will sample a small number of individuals within a campus cohort. A cohort is a group of individuals in regular contact with one another. If a member of the cohort tests positive expanded testing for the group will be available.Groups designated as a cohort, and the dates, times and locations of testing sessions&nbsp;are subject to change, but at this point, they include&nbsp;the following groupings:<ol>
 <li>Residents in university housing</li><li>Athletic teams</li><li>Faculty and students in on-campus classes&nbsp;</li><li>Employees in departments who are in frequent contact members of the campus community and public</li><li>Employees who are in frequent contact as a group&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Individuals in these cohort groups will be notified in advance and provided with additional details including timing, location, and any specific testing protocols. Testing is voluntary and based on self-collected saliva specimen kits.&nbsp;Surveillance testing is scheduled to start the week of September 21 and will continue into December.&nbsp;FHSU’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/covid-19-response/index">COVID-19 Response website</a>&nbsp;is the primary source for information on the university’s ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, including a testing, quarantine and isolation data dashboard that is updated weekly. For more information, contact Chief Communications Officer, Scott Cason, at 785.628.4208 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sacason@fhsu.edu">sacason@fhsu.edu</a>.

Fort Hays State to begin weekly COVID-19 testing

After just a week the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has suspended its reporting of COVID-19 clusters in the state.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/68cb000d-c0a0-4ca6-89d9-a290b881c382">Information released Sept. 9 by KDHE included a cluster at Fort Hays State University. </a>A Colby optometrist was also on the list.

KDHE said on its webpage that it would resume cluster reporting&nbsp;on Wednesday, Sept. 23, after a review.&nbsp;

Hays Post asked the governor about the suspension of the cluster reporting during a Zoom conference with rural hospital leaders Wednesday.

"It was clear from the reaction from not only business itself, but from the general public that it probably created more confusion and wasn't as clear as it needed to be," Kelly said. "We sort of pulled back and are going to try to figure out a way that would provide the information that I think people really need to have.

"I think it is important in the interest of public health to make that information known to the public, but we have to do it in a way that makes sense, it's accurate and it presents the picture as it really is."

Kansas has identified 596 COVID-19 clusters in the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The reporting policy released the locations of clusters of five or more cases. The threshold for businesses was 20 or more cases.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/847953a3-e857-4c1c-a3de-486586a42354">Kelly’s administration has rejected an open records request by Kansas Reflector seeking the name and location of businesses connected to COVID-19 outbreaks of fewer than 20 infections.</a>

Seven business groups, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/142cd036-4273-4ed7-86a6-8a002ff59b5b">including the Kansas Chamber of Commerce</a>, sent a letter to the governor asking her not to move forward with plans to identify active cases associated with businesses.

In addition to the Kansas Chamber, the letter was sent on behalf of Associated General Contractors of Kansas, Kansas Livestock Association, Kansas Bankers Association, National Federation of Independent Businesses, the Builders Association, and Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce.

"We know people appreciate the transparency and information, and that it allows Kansans to make informed decisions when assessing personal risk," KDHE said on its website. "KDHE staff has taken the feedback we received and is currently assessing ways in which we can report this information in a way that reflects current COVID-19 case increases."

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter just a week the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has suspended its reporting of COVID-19 clusters in the state.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/68cb000d-c0a0-4ca6-89d9-a290b881c382">Information released Sept. 9 by KDHE included a cluster at Fort Hays State University. </a>A Colby optometrist was also on the list.KDHE said on its webpage that it would resume cluster reporting&nbsp;on Wednesday, Sept. 23, after a review.&nbsp;Hays Post asked the governor about the suspension of the cluster reporting during a Zoom conference with rural hospital leaders Wednesday."It was clear from the reaction from not only business itself, but from the general public that it probably created more confusion and wasn't as clear as it needed to be," Kelly said. "We sort of pulled back and are going to try to figure out a way that would provide the information that I think people really need to have."I think it is important in the interest of public health to make that information known to the public, but we have to do it in a way that makes sense, it's accurate and it presents the picture as it really is."Kansas has identified 596 COVID-19 clusters in the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;The reporting policy released the locations of clusters of five or more cases. The threshold for businesses was 20 or more cases.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/847953a3-e857-4c1c-a3de-486586a42354">Kelly’s administration has rejected an open records request by Kansas Reflector seeking the name and location of businesses connected to COVID-19 outbreaks of fewer than 20 infections.</a>Seven business groups, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/142cd036-4273-4ed7-86a6-8a002ff59b5b">including the Kansas Chamber of Commerce</a>, sent a letter to the governor asking her not to move forward with plans to identify active cases associated with businesses.In addition to the Kansas Chamber, the letter was sent on behalf of Associated General Contractors of Kansas, Kansas Livestock Association, Kansas Bankers Association, National Federation of Independent Businesses, the Builders Association, and Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce."We know people appreciate the transparency and information, and that it allows Kansans to make informed decisions when assessing personal risk," KDHE said on its website. "KDHE staff has taken the feedback we received and is currently assessing ways in which we can report this information in a way that reflects current COVID-19 case increases."

KDHE suspends COVID-19 cluster reporting

PHILLIPS COUNTY - The cause of a car fire in Phillipsburg Thursday morning is under investigation.

An exploding vape pen is believed responsible for the fire in a Chevy Cobalt that occurred near the middle school in the 600 Block of 7th Street, according to Deputy Charles Radabaugh.

The fire started in or near the driver's purse.&nbsp; She reportedly uses a vape pen, according to Radabaugh.

"The vape pen uses a rechargeable lithium battery and when a malfunction occurs, it can be catastrophic." In this case, the car is a total loss, according to Radabaugh.&nbsp; &nbsp;There were no injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600366510079.png" alt="Photo courtesy Phillips County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Phillips County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPS COUNTY - The cause of a car fire in Phillipsburg Thursday morning is under investigation.An exploding vape pen is believed responsible for the fire in a Chevy Cobalt that occurred near the middle school in the 600 Block of 7th Street, according to Deputy Charles Radabaugh.The fire started in or near the driver's purse.&nbsp; She reportedly uses a vape pen, according to Radabaugh."The vape pen uses a rechargeable lithium battery and when a malfunction occurs, it can be catastrophic." In this case, the car is a total loss, according to Radabaugh.&nbsp; &nbsp;There were no injuries.

Sheriff: Exploding vape pen blamed for car fire

Derek Eichman completed his Eagle Scout Board of Review on March 17, and will receive his Eagle Scout on Sept. 20, in a ceremony at Celebration Community Church, Hays.&nbsp; 

Eagle Scout is the highest rank given by the Boy Scouts of America with less than five percent of all Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.&nbsp; Derek is a senior at Hays High School and is concurrently enrolled at North Central Kansas Technical College in its Automotive Technology Program.&nbsp; Derek joined Cub Scouts Pack 131 in 2010 and became part of Boy Scout Troup 101 in 2014.&nbsp; Derek was inducted into The Order of the Arrow, the National Honor Society of BSA in 2017 after being nominated by his peers.

Derek partnered with Celebration Community Church and Heartland Building Center, Hays, to completing his Eagle Scout Project.&nbsp; The Church maintains a Resource Room to collect clothing, hygiene, and other essential items, which are distributed to foster care families and adults with developmental disabilities in NW Kansas as well as missions in third-world countries.&nbsp; 

Derek designed a large wooden donation cart to provide for a central point to collection donations in the Church lobby.&nbsp; The cart is then used to transport items to the Resource Room, where volunteers sort and organize donated items.&nbsp; For the second part of his Project, Derek reclaimed lumber from old stage platforms no longer used by the church to construct shelving in the Resource Room to handle large plastic totes used to store donated items.&nbsp; Derek repurposed leftover paint to complete his Project and worked with church staff to design vinyl lettering to promote his Project.&nbsp; Derek’s Project will have local and global impacts for many years.

Derek is the son of David and Sheila Eichman, Hays, and the grandson of Ronald and Carol Whitehurst, Garden City, and the late Cleo and Frances Eichman formerly of Palco.&nbsp; In addition to Boy Scouts, Derek has been active in Celebration Community Church’s Cross Current youth group and Leadership Team and is Vice President of Hays High Industrial Technology Association.&nbsp; 

After high school, Derek plans to attend NCKTC’s Electrical Technology Program and become a licensed electrician. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600188083494.jpeg" alt="Eichman / Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Eichman / Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Community News ItemDerek Eichman completed his Eagle Scout Board of Review on March 17, and will receive his Eagle Scout on Sept. 20, in a ceremony at Celebration Community Church, Hays.&nbsp; Eagle Scout is the highest rank given by the Boy Scouts of America with less than five percent of all Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.&nbsp; Derek is a senior at Hays High School and is concurrently enrolled at North Central Kansas Technical College in its Automotive Technology Program.&nbsp; Derek joined Cub Scouts Pack 131 in 2010 and became part of Boy Scout Troup 101 in 2014.&nbsp; Derek was inducted into The Order of the Arrow, the National Honor Society of BSA in 2017 after being nominated by his peers.Derek partnered with Celebration Community Church and Heartland Building Center, Hays, to completing his Eagle Scout Project.&nbsp; The Church maintains a Resource Room to collect clothing, hygiene, and other essential items, which are distributed to foster care families and adults with developmental disabilities in NW Kansas as well as missions in third-world countries.&nbsp; Derek designed a large wooden donation cart to provide for a central point to collection donations in the Church lobby.&nbsp; The cart is then used to transport items to the Resource Room, where volunteers sort and organize donated items.&nbsp; For the second part of his Project, Derek reclaimed lumber from old stage platforms no longer used by the church to construct shelving in the Resource Room to handle large plastic totes used to store donated items.&nbsp; Derek repurposed leftover paint to complete his Project and worked with church staff to design vinyl lettering to promote his Project.&nbsp; Derek’s Project will have local and global impacts for many years.Derek is the son of David and Sheila Eichman, Hays, and the grandson of Ronald and Carol Whitehurst, Garden City, and the late Cleo and Frances Eichman formerly of Palco.&nbsp; In addition to Boy Scouts, Derek has been active in Celebration Community Church’s Cross Current youth group and Leadership Team and is Vice President of Hays High Industrial Technology Association.&nbsp; After high school, Derek plans to attend NCKTC’s Electrical Technology Program and become a licensed electrician. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600188132454.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photos" />
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Hays High senior earns Eagle Scout

WASHINGTON –The Internal Revenue Service today released a state-by-state breakdown of the roughly nine million people receiving a special mailing this month encouraging them to see if they’re eligible to claim an Economic Impact Payment.

The IRS will mail the letters to people who typically aren’t required to file federal income tax returns but may qualify for an Economic Impact Payment. The letter urges recipients to visit the special&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL25vbi1maWxlcnMtZW50ZXItcGF5bWVudC1pbmZvLWhlcmUifQ.C5PWXGXhJRBIiUu0-7fls29bY1fYoJhfuqlNnq7npIg/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">Non-Filers</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL25vbi1maWxlcnMtZW50ZXItcGF5bWVudC1pbmZvLWhlcmUifQ.HJy8Ix7G5RQYU-ovXQSS6Kpyvor1Zf9LqsBthXAqPOs/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">: Enter Payment Info</a>&nbsp;tool on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> before the Oct. 15 deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment.

“The IRS continues to work hard to reach people eligible for these payments,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “These mailings are the latest step by the IRS to reach as many people as possible for these important payments. We are releasing this state-by-state information so that state and local leaders and organizations can better understand the size of this population in their communities and assist them in claiming these important payments. Time is running out to claim a payment before the deadline.”

These&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtcGRmL24xNDQ0YWVzLnBkZiJ9.i3s_UidHrWWPTIYAh0rcImN7m04W9bbVCF-6sOtiLgg/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">letters</a>&nbsp;are part of a final stage of the IRS’s sweeping outreach and public awareness campaign on the Economic Impact Payments that began in March. These efforts included IRS outreach to thousands of partner groups across the nation, including partner groups serving underserved communities, people experiencing homelessness, and those whose primary language isn’t English.

So far, more than 7 million people have already used the Non-Filers tool to register for a payment.

This month’s letters, delivered from an IRS address, are being sent to people who haven’t filed a return for either 2018 or 2019. Based on an internal analysis, these are people who don’t typically have a tax return filing requirement because they appear to have very low incomes based on Forms W-2 and 1099, and other third-party statements available to the IRS.

The breakdown below shows the number of individuals in each state to whom the IRS is sending a letter. In Kansas, the number of letters is&nbsp;69,595, the IRS noted.

The letter urges the recipient to register at <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> by Oct. 15 in order to receive a payment by the end of the year. Individuals can receive up to $1,200, and married couples can receive up to $2,400. People with qualifying children under age 17 at the end of 2019 can get up to an additional $500 for each qualifying child.

The letter, officially known as IRS Notice 1444-A,&nbsp;is written in English and Spanish and includes information on eligibility criteria. If they haven’t done so already, this letter urges eligible individuals to register using the free&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL25vbi1maWxlcnMtZW50ZXItcGF5bWVudC1pbmZvLWhlcmUifQ.VdawOgfwBPFyUpvkGbAV07DrSxt5_-m78Jiy61WRTKg/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info</a>&nbsp;tool, available in English and Spanish and only on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.&nbsp;To help address fraud concerns, a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtcGRmL24xNDQ0YWVzLnBkZiJ9.8UVQ_FssFlDY1RcanKPRce203gey5w7WaPWiaW1w6Tc/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">copy of the letter</a>&nbsp;is available on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.

The IRS cautions that receiving a letter is not a guarantee of eligibility. An individual is likely eligible&nbsp;for an Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;if they:

●have a work-eligible Social Security number; and

●can’t be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s federal income tax return.For more information on eligibility requirements, see the Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;eligibility FAQs&nbsp;on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.&nbsp;

The registration deadline for non-filers to claim an Economic Impact Payment through the Non-Filers tool is Oct. 15, 2020. People who are eligible should not wait to receive a letter and should register now. Alternatively, people can wait until next year and claim the recovery rebate credit on their 2020 federal income tax return by filing in 2021.

The IRS emphasized that anyone required to file either a 2018 or 2019 tax return should file the tax return and not use the Non-Filers tool. That tool is designed for people with incomes typically below $24,400 for married couples, and $12,200 for singles. This includes couples and individuals who are experiencing homelessness.

Those unable to access the&nbsp;Non-Filers&nbsp;tool may submit a simplified paper return following the procedures described in the Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2Vjb25vbWljLWltcGFjdC1wYXltZW50LWluZm9ybWF0aW9uLWNlbnRlci1yZXF1ZXN0aW5nLW15LWVjb25vbWljLWltcGFjdC1wYXltZW50In0.Z4HdxKE-Wrn3ICStPpP_4ym-f8RFuFkFL4vOa5N_Dqs/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.

People can qualify for a payment, even if they don’t work or have no earned income. But low- and moderate-income workers and working families eligible to receive special tax benefits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, cannot use this tool. They will need to file a regular tax return as soon as possible. The IRS will use their tax return information to determine and issue any&nbsp;Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;for which they are eligible.

Anyone using the Non-Filers tool can speed up the arrival of their payment by choosing to receive it by direct deposit. Those not choosing this option will get a check.

Beginning two weeks after they register, people can track the status of their payment using the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL2dldC1teS1wYXltZW50I19ibGFuayJ9.jx0at1_lMWg4zjA5iIzcr-_uSnFmfp5D_C2Z5uZdiBc/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">Get My Payment</a>&nbsp;tool, available only on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.

WASHINGTON –The Internal Revenue Service today released a state-by-state breakdown of the roughly nine million people receiving a special mailing this month encouraging them to see if they’re eligible to claim an Economic Impact Payment.The IRS will mail the letters to people who typically aren’t required to file federal income tax returns but may qualify for an Economic Impact Payment. The letter urges recipients to visit the special&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL25vbi1maWxlcnMtZW50ZXItcGF5bWVudC1pbmZvLWhlcmUifQ.C5PWXGXhJRBIiUu0-7fls29bY1fYoJhfuqlNnq7npIg/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">Non-Filers</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL25vbi1maWxlcnMtZW50ZXItcGF5bWVudC1pbmZvLWhlcmUifQ.HJy8Ix7G5RQYU-ovXQSS6Kpyvor1Zf9LqsBthXAqPOs/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">: Enter Payment Info</a>&nbsp;tool on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> before the Oct. 15 deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment.“The IRS continues to work hard to reach people eligible for these payments,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “These mailings are the latest step by the IRS to reach as many people as possible for these important payments. We are releasing this state-by-state information so that state and local leaders and organizations can better understand the size of this population in their communities and assist them in claiming these important payments. Time is running out to claim a payment before the deadline.”These&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtcGRmL24xNDQ0YWVzLnBkZiJ9.i3s_UidHrWWPTIYAh0rcImN7m04W9bbVCF-6sOtiLgg/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">letters</a>&nbsp;are part of a final stage of the IRS’s sweeping outreach and public awareness campaign on the Economic Impact Payments that began in March. These efforts included IRS outreach to thousands of partner groups across the nation, including partner groups serving underserved communities, people experiencing homelessness, and those whose primary language isn’t English.So far, more than 7 million people have already used the Non-Filers tool to register for a payment.This month’s letters, delivered from an IRS address, are being sent to people who haven’t filed a return for either 2018 or 2019. Based on an internal analysis, these are people who don’t typically have a tax return filing requirement because they appear to have very low incomes based on Forms W-2 and 1099, and other third-party statements available to the IRS.The breakdown below shows the number of individuals in each state to whom the IRS is sending a letter. In Kansas, the number of letters is&nbsp;69,595, the IRS noted.The letter urges the recipient to register at <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> by Oct. 15 in order to receive a payment by the end of the year. Individuals can receive up to $1,200, and married couples can receive up to $2,400. People with qualifying children under age 17 at the end of 2019 can get up to an additional $500 for each qualifying child.The letter, officially known as IRS Notice 1444-A,&nbsp;is written in English and Spanish and includes information on eligibility criteria. If they haven’t done so already, this letter urges eligible individuals to register using the free&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL25vbi1maWxlcnMtZW50ZXItcGF5bWVudC1pbmZvLWhlcmUifQ.VdawOgfwBPFyUpvkGbAV07DrSxt5_-m78Jiy61WRTKg/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info</a>&nbsp;tool, available in English and Spanish and only on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.&nbsp;To help address fraud concerns, a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtcGRmL24xNDQ0YWVzLnBkZiJ9.8UVQ_FssFlDY1RcanKPRce203gey5w7WaPWiaW1w6Tc/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">copy of the letter</a>&nbsp;is available on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.The IRS cautions that receiving a letter is not a guarantee of eligibility. An individual is likely eligible&nbsp;for an Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;if they:●are a U.S. citizen or resident alien;●have a work-eligible Social Security number; and●can’t be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s federal income tax return.For more information on eligibility requirements, see the Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;eligibility FAQs&nbsp;on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.&nbsp;The registration deadline for non-filers to claim an Economic Impact Payment through the Non-Filers tool is Oct. 15, 2020. People who are eligible should not wait to receive a letter and should register now. Alternatively, people can wait until next year and claim the recovery rebate credit on their 2020 federal income tax return by filing in 2021.The IRS emphasized that anyone required to file either a 2018 or 2019 tax return should file the tax return and not use the Non-Filers tool. That tool is designed for people with incomes typically below $24,400 for married couples, and $12,200 for singles. This includes couples and individuals who are experiencing homelessness.Those unable to access the&nbsp;Non-Filers&nbsp;tool may submit a simplified paper return following the procedures described in the Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2Vjb25vbWljLWltcGFjdC1wYXltZW50LWluZm9ybWF0aW9uLWNlbnRlci1yZXF1ZXN0aW5nLW15LWVjb25vbWljLWltcGFjdC1wYXltZW50In0.Z4HdxKE-Wrn3ICStPpP_4ym-f8RFuFkFL4vOa5N_Dqs/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.People can qualify for a payment, even if they don’t work or have no earned income. But low- and moderate-income workers and working families eligible to receive special tax benefits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, cannot use this tool. They will need to file a regular tax return as soon as possible. The IRS will use their tax return information to determine and issue any&nbsp;Economic Impact Payment&nbsp;for which they are eligible.Anyone using the Non-Filers tool can speed up the arrival of their payment by choosing to receive it by direct deposit. Those not choosing this option will get a check.Beginning two weeks after they register, people can track the status of their payment using the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MTcuMjcyODMzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzL2dldC1teS1wYXltZW50I19ibGFuayJ9.jx0at1_lMWg4zjA5iIzcr-_uSnFmfp5D_C2Z5uZdiBc/s/1260222507/br/85086503709-l" target="_blank">Get My Payment</a>&nbsp;tool, available only on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.<figure>
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IRS sending letters to persons who may be eligible for EIPs

Hays High School is reminding fans of protocols for attendance at Friday's football game with Liberal at Lewis Field.

• As guests of Fort Hays State University when using Lewis Field and its parking lot for football games, we are reminded that alcohol is&nbsp;prohibited on the grounds; these games are in support of minors and their high school. The Hays High Administration is always present at&nbsp;events and supervises students and fans in the stadium. We need your help in assisting FHSU and law enforcement in keeping our events at&nbsp;Lewis Field and its parking lot alcohol free; consumption of alcohol at Lewis Field and its parking lot is considered “Public Possession”.

2020 Spectator Requirements for Football Game Attendance at Lewis Field (If you feel you cannot follow these expectations, please support the Indians by watching via live stream or listening via radio)

In compliance with FHSU policies, fans, teams, and staff will observe the following guidelines:

• Capacity Limitations / Masks / Social Distancing o The home side will be filled to 50% capacity, not including the student section. When 900 seats are occupied, fans will be directed to&nbsp;locate to the visitor’s side on the South end of the stadium. o All guests must wear masks to enter and leave the stadium. o All spectators closer than 6 feet from a non-family member must wear mask when seated. Being outside does not supersede the&nbsp;requirements of wearing a mask when unable to social distance. o Be willing to give up the "best" seats in order to distance. o Students in the student sections from both teams must wear masks, regardless of social distancing. o All spectators must wear a mask when going to restrooms, concessions, and when in the concourse under the stadium.

• Tailgating / Gatherings o Absolutely no tailgating or gatherings before or after the game on the FHSU campus is allowed this year. o Teams will immediately head to the locker rooms after the game. o Fans will leave the stadium as soon as the game is complete; gathering on the field after game will not be allowed. If an athlete is&nbsp;riding home with his/her family from the stadium, make prior arrangements on where to meet. o Middle school and elementary school students must stay in the stands with parents/guardians. o Middle school and elementary school who do not sit with a parent/guardian will be required to leave the game.

• Concessions o Two concession stands will be open on the west side.

• Band o The band will sit in the East visitor’s side bleachers, south end. This allows for space to distance. Their instruments will have covers.

Hays High School is reminding fans of protocols for attendance at Friday's football game with Liberal at Lewis Field.• As guests of Fort Hays State University when using Lewis Field and its parking lot for football games, we are reminded that alcohol is&nbsp;prohibited on the grounds; these games are in support of minors and their high school. The Hays High Administration is always present at&nbsp;events and supervises students and fans in the stadium. We need your help in assisting FHSU and law enforcement in keeping our events at&nbsp;Lewis Field and its parking lot alcohol free; consumption of alcohol at Lewis Field and its parking lot is considered “Public Possession”.2020 Spectator Requirements for Football Game Attendance at Lewis Field (If you feel you cannot follow these expectations, please support the Indians by watching via live stream or listening via radio) In compliance with FHSU policies, fans, teams, and staff will observe the following guidelines:• Capacity Limitations / Masks / Social Distancing o The home side will be filled to 50% capacity, not including the student section. When 900 seats are occupied, fans will be directed to&nbsp;locate to the visitor’s side on the South end of the stadium. o All guests must wear masks to enter and leave the stadium. o All spectators closer than 6 feet from a non-family member must wear mask when seated. Being outside does not supersede the&nbsp;requirements of wearing a mask when unable to social distance. o Be willing to give up the "best" seats in order to distance. o Students in the student sections from both teams must wear masks, regardless of social distancing. o All spectators must wear a mask when going to restrooms, concessions, and when in the concourse under the stadium. • Tailgating / Gatherings o Absolutely no tailgating or gatherings before or after the game on the FHSU campus is allowed this year. o Teams will immediately head to the locker rooms after the game. o Fans will leave the stadium as soon as the game is complete; gathering on the field after game will not be allowed. If an athlete is&nbsp;riding home with his/her family from the stadium, make prior arrangements on where to meet. o Middle school and elementary school students must stay in the stands with parents/guardians. o Middle school and elementary school who do not sit with a parent/guardian will be required to leave the game. • Concessions o Two concession stands will be open on the west side. • Band o The band will sit in the East visitor’s side bleachers, south end. This allows for space to distance. Their instruments will have covers.

🏈 HHS reminds fans of guidelines for football games

During a virtual conference call Wednesday, rural hospital administrators told Gov. Laura Kelly local control will be important as the state rolls out a vaccine for COVID-19&nbsp;

The governor said she doubted a vaccine will be available by Election Day, but she hoped Kansans could start being vaccinated by first of the year.

Melissa Atkins, CEO of the Graham County Hospital in Hill City, said she wanted officials to be sure any vaccine for the virus is ready to be mass distributed to the public.

"We talked earlier this morning in our medical staff meeting about what the implications would be if we release it too quickly," she said.

The medical community has struggled to get the public to accept flu vaccines, she said.

"I feel we are at a good place now with the flu vaccine, and everybody is pretty much a believer," Atkins said, "but if we would let the COVID vaccine get out there and not be effective or have some adverse effects , it could ruin people's perception about vaccines for a long, long time."

Harold Courtois, CEO of Memorial Health System in Abilene, said rural communities have significant numbers of older adults, which are at higher risk from the virus. He wanted to make sure those counties would receive adequate allocations of vaccine to cover those residents.

Kelly said health officials are developing a priority list for the vaccine, and the elderly and high-risk patients are going to be given a higher priority.

Allen Van Driel, CEO of Smith County Memorial Hospital, said what works in urban communities does not work in rural communities. He said Smith County Memorial has a strong relationship with its local health department.

"I think what we should concentrate on as the vaccine does become available, let the local authorities have a strong say in how we provide it in our own communities," he said. 

"We have good emergency preparedness programs in place that include mass vaccination, and we need to let those processes work, rather than having a process that works in Topeka or Wichita or where ever that is dictated to us from larger cities."

The governor said she saw the desimination of the vaccine much like the state responding to a wildfire or a flood.

"The state is really the resource, but the folks who do the implementation are on the ground and in the communities," she said.&nbsp;

The governor announced she will be extending a provision that will allow children to be served an additional year by the State Children's Health Insurance Program, which is also known as SCHIP.

Before the pandemic, children aged out of the program when they turned 19. The extended coverage will be valid through the end of 2020.

The governor also took the opportunity to make another push for Medicaid expansion.

All of the states surrounding Kansas have approved Medicaid expansion, which Kelly said made Kansas "an island in the Midwest."

Chad Austin, president of the Kansas Hospital Association, said he was concerned not expanding Medicaid in Kansas has placed the state at a competitive disadvantage in terms of recruiting medical providers.

Dr. Ronald Robinson, CEO of the Goodland Regional Medial Center, said health officials are having difficulty determining the prevalence of the virus in the community.

He said the community has the ability to do antibody testing, but is having difficulty implementing the testing in the community.

Courtois said Abilene is lacking PPE, especially N-95 masks, which concerns him as the flu season ramps up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600293679889.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly meets via Zoom with leaders in rural health care Wednesday." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly meets via Zoom with leaders in rural health care Wednesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDuring a virtual conference call Wednesday, rural hospital administrators told Gov. Laura Kelly local control will be important as the state rolls out a vaccine for COVID-19&nbsp;The governor said she doubted a vaccine will be available by Election Day, but she hoped Kansans could start being vaccinated by first of the year.Melissa Atkins, CEO of the Graham County Hospital in Hill City, said she wanted officials to be sure any vaccine for the virus is ready to be mass distributed to the public."We talked earlier this morning in our medical staff meeting about what the implications would be if we release it too quickly," she said.The medical community has struggled to get the public to accept flu vaccines, she said."I feel we are at a good place now with the flu vaccine, and everybody is pretty much a believer," Atkins said, "but if we would let the COVID vaccine get out there and not be effective or have some adverse effects , it could ruin people's perception about vaccines for a long, long time."Harold Courtois, CEO of Memorial Health System in Abilene, said rural communities have significant numbers of older adults, which are at higher risk from the virus. He wanted to make sure those counties would receive adequate allocations of vaccine to cover those residents.Kelly said health officials are developing a priority list for the vaccine, and the elderly and high-risk patients are going to be given a higher priority.Allen Van Driel, CEO of Smith County Memorial Hospital, said what works in urban communities does not work in rural communities. He said Smith County Memorial has a strong relationship with its local health department."I think what we should concentrate on as the vaccine does become available, let the local authorities have a strong say in how we provide it in our own communities," he said. "We have good emergency preparedness programs in place that include mass vaccination, and we need to let those processes work, rather than having a process that works in Topeka or Wichita or where ever that is dictated to us from larger cities."The governor said she saw the desimination of the vaccine much like the state responding to a wildfire or a flood."The state is really the resource, but the folks who do the implementation are on the ground and in the communities," she said.&nbsp;<h2>Governor extends SCHIP benefits</h2>The governor announced she will be extending a provision that will allow children to be served an additional year by the State Children's Health Insurance Program, which is also known as SCHIP.Before the pandemic, children aged out of the program when they turned 19. The extended coverage will be valid through the end of 2020.<h2>Gov. continue Medicaid push</h2>The governor also took the opportunity to make another push for Medicaid expansion.All of the states surrounding Kansas have approved Medicaid expansion, which Kelly said made Kansas "an island in the Midwest."Chad Austin, president of the Kansas Hospital Association, said he was concerned not expanding Medicaid in Kansas has placed the state at a competitive disadvantage in terms of recruiting medical providers.<h2>Rural hospitals discuss COVID challenges</h2>Dr. Ronald Robinson, CEO of the Goodland Regional Medial Center, said health officials are having difficulty determining the prevalence of the virus in the community.He said the community has the ability to do antibody testing, but is having difficulty implementing the testing in the community.Courtois said Abilene is lacking PPE, especially N-95 masks, which concerns him as the flu season ramps up.Van Driel said rural medical providers have used telemedicine throughout the pandemic, but reimbursements from some providers, including Medicare, are lower for telemedicine than for in-person visits.He said some private insurers are now discontinuing coverage for telehealth, especially for primary care, as if the pandemic were over."We have the broadband capability here,"&nbsp;Van Driel said. "We can provide the services. We have the providers, but if we can't get paid for it, it has a significant impact on the financial stability of the health system."

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