Congratulations to Colten Lewis and Star Dinkel. Colten has joined the Army National Guard, and Star has joined the Air Force.

We thank them in advance for their service and wish them the best of luck.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612564427210.jpeg" alt="Colten Lewis and Star Dinkel, Ellis High School students, have joined the U.S. Armed Forces." />
 <figcaption>Colten Lewis and Star Dinkel, Ellis High School students, have joined the U.S. Armed Forces.</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 388Congratulations to Colten Lewis and Star Dinkel. Colten has joined the Army National Guard, and Star has joined the Air Force.We thank them in advance for their service and wish them the best of luck.

Two Ellis students join Armed Forces

The Kansas Senate sent a powerful message to Governor Kelly regarding vaccine prioritization by adopting SR 1707, which calls upon “the Governor of Kansas to revise her Administration's current COVID-19 vaccination plan by removing prisoners from the front of the line in Phase 2 and instead prioritizing the vaccination of the elderly, the teachers and those aged 16 to 64 who have severe medical risks, seniors who live on their own and veterans.” 

Chairman of the Senate Public Health &amp; Welfare Committee carried the resolution on the Senate floor. During his remarks, he pointed out that several vulnerable populations in Phase 3 are behind prisoners in priority, who are currently in Phase 2. He noted that while eventually incarcerated populations should receive the vaccine, the current scarcity of vaccines amplified the importance of prioritizing law-abiding citizens ahead of incarcerated individuals. 

Senator Hilderbrand said “I appreciate the Senate passing this resolution, which should not be controversial. We’re simply sending a strong message to the governor that her administration should re-prioritize the phases and not put incarcerated individuals ahead of law-abiding citizens.”

Several Senators spoke in favor of the resolution, with some sharing powerful, personal testimonials about the problems with certain populations not being able to obtain the vaccine, including those who have been isolated and not able to see their families. They cited the importance of prioritizing these vulnerable Kansans at the front of the line, ahead of those in prison. “SR 1707 represents a moment for the Senate to stand together in support of those in Kansas who are at most risk during this pandemic, many for whom vaccines represent the light at the end of the tunnel and a return to normal living. This resolution sends a clear message to the administration that during this time when the availability of the vaccine is limited, law-abiding citizens should be the priority over prisoners.” 

People should be sure to contact their county health offices to schedule their appointments.

This week the Senate votes to establish a Kansas Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program. On Monday, the Kansas Senate adopted SB 15, which would establish the Kansas Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program, which updates the field of membership requirements of credit unions and allowing privilege tax deductions on agricultural real estate loans and single-family residence loans. 

The bill is supported by a wide coalition of stakeholders in Kansas, including bankers, the restaurant and hospitality industry, and those in agriculture, all who share a mutual interest in boosting our economy by giving low interest loans to Kansas businesses who have struggled during the pandemic. As NFIB testified, “The proposed program in SB15 will provide small businesses with the critical low-interest capital that they need in these trying times.” The Kansas Bankers Association testified that the bill “will provide low-cost credit to ag producers and rural housing and create an economic recovery linked deposit loan program for small businesses, including farmers and ranchers, financially affected by the pandemic.”

It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399, or my cell number is 785 899-4700.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610490291573.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Senate sent a powerful message to Governor Kelly regarding vaccine prioritization by adopting SR 1707, which calls upon “the Governor of Kansas to revise her Administration's current COVID-19 vaccination plan by removing prisoners from the front of the line in Phase 2 and instead prioritizing the vaccination of the elderly, the teachers and those aged 16 to 64 who have severe medical risks, seniors who live on their own and veterans.” Chairman of the Senate Public Health &amp; Welfare Committee carried the resolution on the Senate floor. During his remarks, he pointed out that several vulnerable populations in Phase 3 are behind prisoners in priority, who are currently in Phase 2. He noted that while eventually incarcerated populations should receive the vaccine, the current scarcity of vaccines amplified the importance of prioritizing law-abiding citizens ahead of incarcerated individuals. Senator Hilderbrand said “I appreciate the Senate passing this resolution, which should not be controversial. We’re simply sending a strong message to the governor that her administration should re-prioritize the phases and not put incarcerated individuals ahead of law-abiding citizens.” Several Senators spoke in favor of the resolution, with some sharing powerful, personal testimonials about the problems with certain populations not being able to obtain the vaccine, including those who have been isolated and not able to see their families. They cited the importance of prioritizing these vulnerable Kansans at the front of the line, ahead of those in prison. “SR 1707 represents a moment for the Senate to stand together in support of those in Kansas who are at most risk during this pandemic, many for whom vaccines represent the light at the end of the tunnel and a return to normal living. This resolution sends a clear message to the administration that during this time when the availability of the vaccine is limited, law-abiding citizens should be the priority over prisoners.” People should be sure to contact their county health offices to schedule their appointments.This week the Senate votes to establish a Kansas Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program. On Monday, the Kansas Senate adopted SB 15, which would establish the Kansas Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program, which updates the field of membership requirements of credit unions and allowing privilege tax deductions on agricultural real estate loans and single-family residence loans. The bill is supported by a wide coalition of stakeholders in Kansas, including bankers, the restaurant and hospitality industry, and those in agriculture, all who share a mutual interest in boosting our economy by giving low interest loans to Kansas businesses who have struggled during the pandemic. As NFIB testified, “The proposed program in SB15 will provide small businesses with the critical low-interest capital that they need in these trying times.” The Kansas Bankers Association testified that the bill “will provide low-cost credit to ag producers and rural housing and create an economic recovery linked deposit loan program for small businesses, including farmers and ranchers, financially affected by the pandemic.”It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399, or my cell number is 785 899-4700.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Feb. 8

Three-day weather outlook

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Can first impressions lead to changes in communities? Yes, based on the experience of one rural community that used the First Impressions program as a springboard for strategic actions to make community improvements.&nbsp;

Gary Olson is an entrepreneur, farmer, and real estate broker in Gypsum, Kansas. He grew up on a nearby farm and now produces seed wheat and has a real estate company. He’s also seen the struggles of rural communities. “Our town had about died,” Gary said.&nbsp;

In January 2019, he bought a building in downtown Gypsum and revitalized the flea market which had been operating there as a place for vendors to sell various products. Some are original custom products, such as from a nearby welding shop. Others are used or repurposed products that can be purchased affordably. People can sell items on consignment or donate them. “Our customers say they find hidden treasures here,” Gary said.&nbsp;

Resa Risinger is now the flea market manager. She noted that the market offered special promotions during the holidays such as a drawing for a free turkey and three hams.&nbsp;

“(The market) has grown exponentially,” Gary said. Promoting it on social media and allowing credit- and debit-card purchases has made a big difference. “Sales went through the roof,” Gary said. “Our guest book says that we’ve had visitors from as far away as California and Michigan and Sydney, Australia.”&nbsp;

Through another Gypsum resident, Leslie Manning, Gary learned about the First Impressions community-betterment program. First Impressions is offered to communities at no cost by K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

The purpose of the program is to build awareness of a community’s strengths as well as areas of concern, using feedback from outside the community. Once a community chooses to participate, a team of trained volunteers from a similar town will visit the community and record its impressions of various community elements, such as:&nbsp;

The results are presented at a community meeting.&nbsp;

Gary Olson and Leslie Manning were among those who went to a presentation to learn about the First Impressions program. They helped encourage the city of Gypsum to participate in the program. “A team from Glasco came down and gave us feedback,” Gary said.&nbsp;

Such outside perspectives can be useful in seeing one’s community through the eyes of a first-time visitor. In the case of Gypsum, this led to community action. “The next logical step was a program called Strategic Doing,” Gary said. “The extension office helped us organize a brainstorming meeting.” Facilitator Betty Johnson helped the community organize task forces to work on top priority issues, such as youth development, parks and recreation, and senior housing.&nbsp;

One prominent project was a new “Welcome to Gypsum” sign. “That sign was in the works for several years. Sandy Kruse worked on it,” Gary said.&nbsp;

New owners have purchased the restaurant, and other new businesses have opened.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’ve opened a business center at the flea market,” Gary said. Strategic Doing has also led to the creation of the Gypsum Valley Community Foundation Fund, which has already raised more than $20,000.&nbsp;

“We’ve come a really, really long way,” Gary said. “Without those two programs (First Impressions and Strategic Doing), we wouldn’t have the community we do.”&nbsp;

It’s great to see such progress in a rural community such as Gypsum, population 405 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gypsumfleamarketandthrift">@gypsumfleamarketandthrift</a>&nbsp;on Facebook.&nbsp;

Can first impressions lead to community action? In the case of Gypsum, yes. Those first impressions from outside the community helped identify key needs that led to not just community strategic planning, but strategic doing.&nbsp;

We commend Gary Olson, Resa Risinger, Leslie Manning, Sandy Kruse, and the many other volunteers who are making a difference by building business and bettering the community. They are making an excellent impression.&nbsp;

And there’s more. Remember the welding company that made and sold the custom items? That small-town shop has big capabilities. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612363648389.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentCan first impressions lead to changes in communities? Yes, based on the experience of one rural community that used the First Impressions program as a springboard for strategic actions to make community improvements.&nbsp;Gary Olson is an entrepreneur, farmer, and real estate broker in Gypsum, Kansas. He grew up on a nearby farm and now produces seed wheat and has a real estate company. He’s also seen the struggles of rural communities. “Our town had about died,” Gary said.&nbsp;In January 2019, he bought a building in downtown Gypsum and revitalized the flea market which had been operating there as a place for vendors to sell various products. Some are original custom products, such as from a nearby welding shop. Others are used or repurposed products that can be purchased affordably. People can sell items on consignment or donate them. “Our customers say they find hidden treasures here,” Gary said.&nbsp;Resa Risinger is now the flea market manager. She noted that the market offered special promotions during the holidays such as a drawing for a free turkey and three hams.&nbsp;“(The market) has grown exponentially,” Gary said. Promoting it on social media and allowing credit- and debit-card purchases has made a big difference. “Sales went through the roof,” Gary said. “Our guest book says that we’ve had visitors from as far away as California and Michigan and Sydney, Australia.”&nbsp;Through another Gypsum resident, Leslie Manning, Gary learned about the First Impressions community-betterment program. First Impressions is offered to communities at no cost by K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;The purpose of the program is to build awareness of a community’s strengths as well as areas of concern, using feedback from outside the community. Once a community chooses to participate, a team of trained volunteers from a similar town will visit the community and record its impressions of various community elements, such as:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Residential locations.&nbsp;</li><li>Retail businesses.&nbsp;</li><li>Industrial areas.&nbsp;</li><li>Local government entities.&nbsp;</li><li>Schools.&nbsp;</li><li>Other points of interest.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The results are presented at a community meeting.&nbsp;Gary Olson and Leslie Manning were among those who went to a presentation to learn about the First Impressions program. They helped encourage the city of Gypsum to participate in the program. “A team from Glasco came down and gave us feedback,” Gary said.&nbsp;Such outside perspectives can be useful in seeing one’s community through the eyes of a first-time visitor. In the case of Gypsum, this led to community action. “The next logical step was a program called Strategic Doing,” Gary said. “The extension office helped us organize a brainstorming meeting.” Facilitator Betty Johnson helped the community organize task forces to work on top priority issues, such as youth development, parks and recreation, and senior housing.&nbsp;One prominent project was a new “Welcome to Gypsum” sign. “That sign was in the works for several years. Sandy Kruse worked on it,” Gary said.&nbsp;New owners have purchased the restaurant, and other new businesses have opened.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’ve opened a business center at the flea market,” Gary said. Strategic Doing has also led to the creation of the Gypsum Valley Community Foundation Fund, which has already raised more than $20,000.&nbsp;“We’ve come a really, really long way,” Gary said. “Without those two programs (First Impressions and Strategic Doing), we wouldn’t have the community we do.”&nbsp;It’s great to see such progress in a rural community such as Gypsum, population 405 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gypsumfleamarketandthrift">@gypsumfleamarketandthrift</a>&nbsp;on Facebook.&nbsp;Can first impressions lead to community action? In the case of Gypsum, yes. Those first impressions from outside the community helped identify key needs that led to not just community strategic planning, but strategic doing.&nbsp;We commend Gary Olson, Resa Risinger, Leslie Manning, Sandy Kruse, and the many other volunteers who are making a difference by building business and bettering the community. They are making an excellent impression.&nbsp;And there’s more. Remember the welding company that made and sold the custom items? That small-town shop has big capabilities. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Gary Olson, Gypsum 

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By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board with consider bids on a more than $2 million project to replace the HVAC system at Roosevelt Elementary School at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The consulting engineer on the project has recommended the low bid from Glassman Corp. The total bid with two alternative bids would be $2.019 million.

The engineer noted the equipment in Glassman's low bid is different than the other HVAC equipment used in the district. Although training for USD 489 staff is included in the bid, the engineer said staff would have to learn to use the new equipment.

Glassman also offered a bid for equipment similar to what the district already uses. That bid came in at $2.035 million.

The proposal to the board includes paying for the HVAC replacement through a lease-purchase agreement. The annual payment on the debt would be $240,000 paid over 10 years.

If the bid is approved, work on the project would be done this summer.

The board will consider bids on two other projects at its meeting Monday night.&nbsp;

It will consider a low bid from&nbsp;Paul-Wertenberger Construction of Hays for $28,500 for a secure entrance at O'Loughlin Elementary School.

The board will consider the purchase of two walk-in refrigerators for nutrition services. The low bid was from Sunflower Restaurant and Supply of Salina for $35,994.

The board will also consider: • Board policy updates • A school calendar change • Two-year administrator contracts • District administrator contracts

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590007907309.jpeg" alt="Damaged pipes in the tunnels under Roosevelt Elementary School. The Hays school board will consider replacing the HVAC system at its meeting on Monday." />
 <figcaption>Damaged pipes in the tunnels under Roosevelt Elementary School. The Hays school board will consider replacing the HVAC system at its meeting on Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board with consider bids on a more than $2 million project to replace the HVAC system at Roosevelt Elementary School at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.The consulting engineer on the project has recommended the low bid from Glassman Corp. The total bid with two alternative bids would be $2.019 million.The engineer noted the equipment in Glassman's low bid is different than the other HVAC equipment used in the district. Although training for USD 489 staff is included in the bid, the engineer said staff would have to learn to use the new equipment.Glassman also offered a bid for equipment similar to what the district already uses. That bid came in at $2.035 million.The proposal to the board includes paying for the HVAC replacement through a lease-purchase agreement. The annual payment on the debt would be $240,000 paid over 10 years.If the bid is approved, work on the project would be done this summer.The board will consider bids on two other projects at its meeting Monday night.&nbsp;It will consider a low bid from&nbsp;Paul-Wertenberger Construction of Hays for $28,500 for a secure entrance at O'Loughlin Elementary School.The board will consider the purchase of two walk-in refrigerators for nutrition services. The low bid was from Sunflower Restaurant and Supply of Salina for $35,994.The board will also consider: • Board policy updates • A school calendar change • Two-year administrator contracts • District administrator contracts

Hays school board to consider $2M Roosevelt HVAC project

A literacy project started by two Fort Hays State University professors last year proved so successful that they are continuing it this year, despite facing challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. April Terry in the criminal justice department and Dr. Sarah Broman Miller (teacher education) wrote a research grant in 2020 and launched a pilot project to serve the inmate population at the Topeka Correctional Facility through a read-aloud program.

Last spring, students in Broman Miller’s teacher education practicum class worked with 10 incarcerated mothers and two grandmothers on a literacy project to improve the inmates’ basic reading skills and help them connect with their loved ones through books recorded by the inmates.&nbsp;

Elementary education majors had planned to read in person to the inmates, but because of COVID-19 protocols, the students video recorded their book readings, modeling for the inmates what good reading looks and sounds like. They sent their recordings to Broman Miller, who then forwarded them to the correctional facility. Each inmate received a new young adult chapter book, as well as a recordable book to be passed on to their loved ones.

Broman Miller also started a book drive in conjunction with the literacy project. The response was so overwhelming that she was able to deliver boxes of books this month to the Stockton Correctional Facility and two more facilities in Norton – the correctional facility and Valley Hope Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Center.

“You would have thought it was Christmas all over again at those facilities,” Broman Miller said. She added that “this is a really important project, being able to bridge that social connection for the inmates, especially right now during the pandemic. It’s a really good way to help people who already are experiencing a lot of trauma and give them some hope.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the ongoing book drive can drop them off at the FHSU offices of Broman Miller (Rarick 239) or Terry (Rarick 233) or at Hays’ First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh. Broman Miller noted that in addition to the service portion of the project, FHSU students benefit as well.

Numerous students are getting involved in making a difference in the lives of others. Some of Terry’s criminal justice students collect data from surveys answered by the inmates before and after the project to determine how the reading project has impacted them. Others in the Department of Art and Design are creating coloring books specific to the grandmothers and mothers in the literacy project.

“This is always important work,” Terry said. “But it is especially important now. The inmates have gone almost a year without seeing their loved ones, and the books and coloring books are an extra tool to help them connect with them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612288775185.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsA literacy project started by two Fort Hays State University professors last year proved so successful that they are continuing it this year, despite facing challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic.Dr. April Terry in the criminal justice department and Dr. Sarah Broman Miller (teacher education) wrote a research grant in 2020 and launched a pilot project to serve the inmate population at the Topeka Correctional Facility through a read-aloud program.Last spring, students in Broman Miller’s teacher education practicum class worked with 10 incarcerated mothers and two grandmothers on a literacy project to improve the inmates’ basic reading skills and help them connect with their loved ones through books recorded by the inmates.&nbsp;Elementary education majors had planned to read in person to the inmates, but because of COVID-19 protocols, the students video recorded their book readings, modeling for the inmates what good reading looks and sounds like. They sent their recordings to Broman Miller, who then forwarded them to the correctional facility. Each inmate received a new young adult chapter book, as well as a recordable book to be passed on to their loved ones.Broman Miller also started a book drive in conjunction with the literacy project. The response was so overwhelming that she was able to deliver boxes of books this month to the Stockton Correctional Facility and two more facilities in Norton – the correctional facility and Valley Hope Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Center.“You would have thought it was Christmas all over again at those facilities,” Broman Miller said. She added that “this is a really important project, being able to bridge that social connection for the inmates, especially right now during the pandemic. It’s a really good way to help people who already are experiencing a lot of trauma and give them some hope.”Anyone wishing to donate to the ongoing book drive can drop them off at the FHSU offices of Broman Miller (Rarick 239) or Terry (Rarick 233) or at Hays’ First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh. Broman Miller noted that in addition to the service portion of the project, FHSU students benefit as well.Numerous students are getting involved in making a difference in the lives of others. Some of Terry’s criminal justice students collect data from surveys answered by the inmates before and after the project to determine how the reading project has impacted them. Others in the Department of Art and Design are creating coloring books specific to the grandmothers and mothers in the literacy project.“This is always important work,” Terry said. “But it is especially important now. The inmates have gone almost a year without seeing their loved ones, and the books and coloring books are an extra tool to help them connect with them.”

Fort Hays State project improves next chapter in people’s lives

BUNKER HILL — The Graham County Community Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $1,000.&nbsp; The grant will support the literacy initiative program of Smoky Hills PBS.

The Smoky Hills PBS literacy leadership program provides the following:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Children’s programming on Smoky Hills PBS

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Book distribution program (First Book Club) that will provide books to children attending Head Start programs in Graham County.

“At Smoky Hills PBS, we encourage a love of reading at a young age and that is exactly what this grant will help provide to the young kids in Graham County,” said Kelli King, director of finance and admin of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “With the support of this great foundation we are also able to continue great PBS KIDS programming for children across our viewing area.”

The <a href="http://grahamcountycf.org/">Graham County Community Foundation</a> provides small grants within the community to meet the Graham County community’s charitable, religious, educational, and scientific needs.

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in central and western Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589894008864.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL — The Graham County Community Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $1,000.&nbsp; The grant will support the literacy initiative program of Smoky Hills PBS.The Smoky Hills PBS literacy leadership program provides the following:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Children’s programming on Smoky Hills PBS·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Book distribution program (First Book Club) that will provide books to children attending Head Start programs in Graham County.“At Smoky Hills PBS, we encourage a love of reading at a young age and that is exactly what this grant will help provide to the young kids in Graham County,” said Kelli King, director of finance and admin of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “With the support of this great foundation we are also able to continue great PBS KIDS programming for children across our viewing area.”The <a href="http://grahamcountycf.org/">Graham County Community Foundation</a> provides small grants within the community to meet the Graham County community’s charitable, religious, educational, and scientific needs.Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in central and western Kansas.

Graham County Community Foundation award to Smoky Hills PBS

TOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation recently announced approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including in Trego County.

 The letting took place Jan. 20 in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;District One — Northeast

Atchison ‑&nbsp;116‑3 KA‑3883‑01 ‑ K‑116, bridge #037 over Spring Creek Drainage located 3.5 miles east of the east U.S. 159/K‑116 junction, bridge replacement, Pfefferkorn &amp; Drury Construction LLC, Olathe, Kansas, $756,191.35.

Brown ‑&nbsp;36‑7 KA‑6005‑01 ‑ Various locations on U.S. 36, pavement marking, 24.3 miles, Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $364,321.06.

Doniphan ‑&nbsp;36‑22 KA‑6004‑01 ‑ Various locations on U.S. 36, pavement marking, 27.9 miles, Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $6,904.00.

Johnson ‑&nbsp;56‑46 KA‑5937‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, beginning 275 feet west of Old U. S 56 highway in Gardner east to the south U.S. 56/I‑35 junction, overlay, 1.2 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,288,763.57.

Johnson ‑&nbsp;69‑46 KA‑5965‑01 – U.S. 69, from the Johnson/Miami county&nbsp;line north to 159th Street in Overland Park, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 7.1 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,423,918.35.

Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;32‑52 KA‑5176‑01 – K‑32 and 222nd Street, intersection improvement, 0.4 mile, Amino Brothers Company Inc., Kansas City, Kansas, $910,004.33.

Lyon ‑&nbsp;56 KA‑5978‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, from the Lyon/Morris county line east to the Osage/Lyon county line and K-78, from the north city limits of Miller north to the U.S. 56/K‑78 junction, milling and overlay, 23.2 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $3,247,356.00.

Marshall ‑&nbsp;9‑58 KA‑5934‑01 ‑ K‑9, from the east U.S. 77/K‑9 junction east to the south K‑9/K‑99 junction, milling and overlay, 12.3 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $1,722,402.66.

Osage ‑&nbsp;31‑70 KA‑5964‑01 ‑ K‑31, from the south U.S. 75/K‑31 junction southeast to the west K‑31/I‑35 junction, milling and overlay, 7.2 miles, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $797,034.51.

Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;24‑75 KA‑3921‑01 – U.S. 24, bridge #006 over Blackjack Creek located 7.6 miles east of the Pottawatomie/Riley county line, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $1,975,971.36.

Shawnee ‑&nbsp;75‑89 KA‑5629‑01 – U.S. 75, northbound U.S. 75 at ramp to S.W. 42nd Street in Topeka, lighting, Phillips Southern Electric Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $59,450.00.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;73‑105 KA‑5891‑01 – U.S. 73, overhead sign truss (serial #105S0132) located over southbound U.S. 73 approximately 1,584 feet north of the U.S. 24/U.S. 73/K‑7 junction at the ramp for westbound State Avenue in Kansas City, signing, Fulsom Brothers, Inc., Cedar Vale, Kansas, $223,491.83.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0701‑01 ‑ Riverview Avenue and 110th&nbsp;Street intersection to approximately 1,800 feet east and 110th Street from north of Speaker Road to north of Riverview Avenue in Edwardsville, grade and surfacing, 1.0 mile, Kings Construction Co. Inc., Oskaloosa, Kansas, $2,859,272.83.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;4‑106 KA‑5956‑01 ‑ K‑4, from the east K‑4/U.S. 24 junction east to the Shawnee/Jefferson county line and from the Shawnee/Jefferson county line east to the K‑4/K‑92 junction, milling and overlay, 11.1 miles, Hamm Inc., Perry, Kansas, $2,044,847.07.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;16‑106 KA‑5959‑01 ‑ K‑16, from the U.S. 77/K‑16 junction east to the west end of bridge #017 over the Big Blue River/ Tuttle Reservoir and from 639 feet east of the Pottawatomie/Riley county line (at the east end of bridge #017) east to the south K‑16/K‑99 junction, milling and overlay, 20.3 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $3,106,820.97.

Washington ‑&nbsp;101 KA‑6037‑01 ‑ K‑148, from the K‑148/U.S. 36 junction north to the Nebraska state line; K‑234, from the east city limits of Hanover east to the K‑148/K‑234 junction; K‑243, from the K-148/K‑243 junction east to the access road to the Pony Express Station, sealing, 12.3 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $343,857.58.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;4‑106 KA‑4745‑02 ‑ K‑4, in Ellsworth, McPherson, and Saline counties, K‑141 in Ellsworth County, and K‑104 in Saline County, signing, 54.6 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $185,032.28.

Statewide –&nbsp;77-106 KA‑6033‑01 ‑ U.S. 77, from the south Morris/Dickinson county line (Point 1) northeast to the Morris/Dickinson county line (Point 2), from the Morris/Geary county line north to the concrete pavement located 2.5 miles south of I‑70, from the U. S. 77/K‑209 junction north to the Morris/Dickinson county line and from the Morris/Dickinson county line north to the Morris/Geary county line, sealing, 13.4 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $468,947.51.

Trego ‑&nbsp;70‑98 KA‑5686‑01 ‑ I‑70, bridge #002 located 2.02 miles east of the Gove County Line, bridge, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $249,251.95.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑4746‑01 ‑ K‑253, K‑267, K‑27 and U.S. 24B in Cheyenne, Sherman, and Wallace counties, signing, 31.6 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $75,066.60.

Bourbon ‑&nbsp;39‑6 KA‑3910‑01 ‑ K‑39, bridge #045 over Pawnee Creek located 7.43 miles east of the east K‑3 junction, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $1,389,580.52.

Chautauqua ‑&nbsp;99‑10 KA‑5411‑01 – K-99, from the north K-99/U. S. 166B junction north to the Chautauqua/Elk county line, shoulders, 13.5 miles, Cornejo &amp; Sons LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $8,037,094.12.

Cherokee ‑&nbsp;160‑11 KA‑3904‑01 – U.S. 160, bridge #050 over the Neosho River Drainage located 0.94 mile east of the Cherokee/Labette county line, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $1,857,653.48.

Cherokee ‑&nbsp;166‑11 KA‑3905‑01 – U.S. 166, bridges #025, #026, #027, #028, #029 and #030 over the Neosho River Drainage located 0.25 mile, 0.85 mile, 1.29 miles, 1.73 miles,1.84 miles, and 2.25 miles respectively east of the Labette/Cherokee county line, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $14,840,060.71.

Coffey ‑&nbsp;131‑16 KA‑5941‑01 ‑ K‑131, from the north city limits of Lebo north to the K‑131/I‑35 junction, overlay, 0.5 mile, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $92,753.16.

Crawford ‑&nbsp;19 KA‑5967‑01 ‑ U.S. 69, from the U.S. 400/U.S. 69 junction north to the K‑126/U.S. 69 junction and from the north city limits of Pittsburg north to the K‑47/U.S. 69 junction, and U.S. 69B2, from the K‑47/U.S. 69B2 junction north to the U.S. 69/U.S.69B2 junction, milling and overlay, 14.6 miles, Heckert Construction Company Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $2,301,696.48.

Greenwood ‑&nbsp;99‑37 KA‑3911‑01 ‑ K‑99, bridge #032 over Fall River located 2.3 miles south of the west U.S. 54 junction, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $3,796,175.77.

Montgomery ‑&nbsp;166‑63 KA‑5685‑01 ‑ U.S. 166, bridge #039 (eastbound) over Onion Creek located 13.79 miles east of the south U.S. 75/U.S. 166 junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $63,593.05.

Neosho ‑&nbsp;146‑67 KA‑5966‑01 ‑ K‑146, from the U.S. 59/K‑146 junction east to the Neosho/Crawford county line, milling and overlay, 9.0 miles, Heckert Construction Company Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $1,002,581.24.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;169‑106 KA‑3255‑01 – U.S. 169, from approximately 3.0 miles north of the U.S. 169/K‑47 junction, north to 1.7 miles north of the Neosho/Allen county line, pavement reconstruction, 13.4 miles, Emery Sapp &amp; Sons Inc. and Subsidiaries, Columbia, Mo., $32,606,312.46.

Butler ‑&nbsp;400‑8 KA‑5689‑01 – U.S. 400, bridge #042 over the Little Walnut River located 3.7 miles east of east U.S. 77/U.S. 400 junction, bridge, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $566,136.35.

Butler ‑&nbsp;177‑8 KA‑5691‑01 ‑ K‑177, bridge #123 over El Dorado Lake located 2.5 miles north of U.S. 54, bridge, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $733,769.90.

Butler ‑&nbsp;77‑8 KA‑6028‑01 – U.S. 77, from the Cowley/Butler county line north to approximately 1,742 feet south of the Walnut River, sealing, 12.7 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $624,850.19.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 N‑0694‑01 ‑ North Main Street, from Grand Avenue north to the Wichita Valley Center Floodway Bridge in Haysville, pavement reconstruction, 0.5 mile, Cornejo &amp; Sons LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $1,335,869.01.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑4748‑01 – U.S. 54 and U.S. 400 in Ford, Kiowa, and Pratt counties, signing, 36.7 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $155,074.25.

Statewide –&nbsp;106 KA‑4748‑02 ‑ K‑1 and U.S. 160 in Barber, Clark, and Comanche counties, signing, 49.2 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $146,657.40.

Hamilton ‑&nbsp;27‑38 KA‑3271‑01 ‑ K‑27, from the south city limits of Syracuse north to the east K‑27/U.S. 50 junction, pavement reconstruction, 0.6 mile, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $6,512,961.85.

The following project has been approved from the Dec. 16, 2020, letting.

Pratt ‑&nbsp;54‑76 KA‑5429‑01 – U.S. 54 from New Street to Mound Street in Pratt, pavement reconstruction, 0.1 mile,&nbsp;Vogts Parga Construction LLC, Newton, Kansas, $744,409.18.

<figure>
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 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation recently announced approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including in Trego County. The letting took place Jan. 20 in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;District One — NortheastAtchison ‑&nbsp;116‑3 KA‑3883‑01 ‑ K‑116, bridge #037 over Spring Creek Drainage located 3.5 miles east of the east U.S. 159/K‑116 junction, bridge replacement, Pfefferkorn &amp; Drury Construction LLC, Olathe, Kansas, $756,191.35.Brown ‑&nbsp;36‑7 KA‑6005‑01 ‑ Various locations on U.S. 36, pavement marking, 24.3 miles, Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $364,321.06.Doniphan ‑&nbsp;36‑22 KA‑6004‑01 ‑ Various locations on U.S. 36, pavement marking, 27.9 miles, Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $6,904.00.Johnson ‑&nbsp;56‑46 KA‑5937‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, beginning 275 feet west of Old U. S 56 highway in Gardner east to the south U.S. 56/I‑35 junction, overlay, 1.2 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,288,763.57.Johnson ‑&nbsp;69‑46 KA‑5965‑01 – U.S. 69, from the Johnson/Miami county&nbsp;line north to 159th Street in Overland Park, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 7.1 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,423,918.35.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;32‑52 KA‑5176‑01 – K‑32 and 222nd Street, intersection improvement, 0.4 mile, Amino Brothers Company Inc., Kansas City, Kansas, $910,004.33.Lyon ‑&nbsp;56 KA‑5978‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, from the Lyon/Morris county line east to the Osage/Lyon county line and K-78, from the north city limits of Miller north to the U.S. 56/K‑78 junction, milling and overlay, 23.2 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $3,247,356.00.Marshall ‑&nbsp;9‑58 KA‑5934‑01 ‑ K‑9, from the east U.S. 77/K‑9 junction east to the south K‑9/K‑99 junction, milling and overlay, 12.3 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $1,722,402.66.Osage ‑&nbsp;31‑70 KA‑5964‑01 ‑ K‑31, from the south U.S. 75/K‑31 junction southeast to the west K‑31/I‑35 junction, milling and overlay, 7.2 miles, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $797,034.51.Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;24‑75 KA‑3921‑01 – U.S. 24, bridge #006 over Blackjack Creek located 7.6 miles east of the Pottawatomie/Riley county line, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $1,975,971.36.Shawnee ‑&nbsp;75‑89 KA‑5629‑01 – U.S. 75, northbound U.S. 75 at ramp to S.W. 42nd Street in Topeka, lighting, Phillips Southern Electric Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $59,450.00.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;73‑105 KA‑5891‑01 – U.S. 73, overhead sign truss (serial #105S0132) located over southbound U.S. 73 approximately 1,584 feet north of the U.S. 24/U.S. 73/K‑7 junction at the ramp for westbound State Avenue in Kansas City, signing, Fulsom Brothers, Inc., Cedar Vale, Kansas, $223,491.83.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0701‑01 ‑ Riverview Avenue and 110th&nbsp;Street intersection to approximately 1,800 feet east and 110th Street from north of Speaker Road to north of Riverview Avenue in Edwardsville, grade and surfacing, 1.0 mile, Kings Construction Co. Inc., Oskaloosa, Kansas, $2,859,272.83.Statewide ‑&nbsp;4‑106 KA‑5956‑01 ‑ K‑4, from the east K‑4/U.S. 24 junction east to the Shawnee/Jefferson county line and from the Shawnee/Jefferson county line east to the K‑4/K‑92 junction, milling and overlay, 11.1 miles, Hamm Inc., Perry, Kansas, $2,044,847.07.Statewide ‑&nbsp;16‑106 KA‑5959‑01 ‑ K‑16, from the U.S. 77/K‑16 junction east to the west end of bridge #017 over the Big Blue River/ Tuttle Reservoir and from 639 feet east of the Pottawatomie/Riley county line (at the east end of bridge #017) east to the south K‑16/K‑99 junction, milling and overlay, 20.3 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $3,106,820.97.District Two — North CentralWashington ‑&nbsp;101 KA‑6037‑01 ‑ K‑148, from the K‑148/U.S. 36 junction north to the Nebraska state line; K‑234, from the east city limits of Hanover east to the K‑148/K‑234 junction; K‑243, from the K-148/K‑243 junction east to the access road to the Pony Express Station, sealing, 12.3 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $343,857.58.Statewide ‑&nbsp;4‑106 KA‑4745‑02 ‑ K‑4, in Ellsworth, McPherson, and Saline counties, K‑141 in Ellsworth County, and K‑104 in Saline County, signing, 54.6 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $185,032.28.Statewide –&nbsp;77-106 KA‑6033‑01 ‑ U.S. 77, from the south Morris/Dickinson county line (Point 1) northeast to the Morris/Dickinson county line (Point 2), from the Morris/Geary county line north to the concrete pavement located 2.5 miles south of I‑70, from the U. S. 77/K‑209 junction north to the Morris/Dickinson county line and from the Morris/Dickinson county line north to the Morris/Geary county line, sealing, 13.4 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $468,947.51.District Three — NorthwestTrego ‑&nbsp;70‑98 KA‑5686‑01 ‑ I‑70, bridge #002 located 2.02 miles east of the Gove County Line, bridge, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $249,251.95.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑4746‑01 ‑ K‑253, K‑267, K‑27 and U.S. 24B in Cheyenne, Sherman, and Wallace counties, signing, 31.6 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $75,066.60.District Four — SoutheastBourbon ‑&nbsp;39‑6 KA‑3910‑01 ‑ K‑39, bridge #045 over Pawnee Creek located 7.43 miles east of the east K‑3 junction, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $1,389,580.52.Chautauqua ‑&nbsp;99‑10 KA‑5411‑01 – K-99, from the north K-99/U. S. 166B junction north to the Chautauqua/Elk county line, shoulders, 13.5 miles, Cornejo &amp; Sons LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $8,037,094.12.Cherokee ‑&nbsp;160‑11 KA‑3904‑01 – U.S. 160, bridge #050 over the Neosho River Drainage located 0.94 mile east of the Cherokee/Labette county line, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $1,857,653.48.Cherokee ‑&nbsp;166‑11 KA‑3905‑01 – U.S. 166, bridges #025, #026, #027, #028, #029 and #030 over the Neosho River Drainage located 0.25 mile, 0.85 mile, 1.29 miles, 1.73 miles,1.84 miles, and 2.25 miles respectively east of the Labette/Cherokee county line, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $14,840,060.71.Coffey ‑&nbsp;131‑16 KA‑5941‑01 ‑ K‑131, from the north city limits of Lebo north to the K‑131/I‑35 junction, overlay, 0.5 mile, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $92,753.16.Crawford ‑&nbsp;19 KA‑5967‑01 ‑ U.S. 69, from the U.S. 400/U.S. 69 junction north to the K‑126/U.S. 69 junction and from the north city limits of Pittsburg north to the K‑47/U.S. 69 junction, and U.S. 69B2, from the K‑47/U.S. 69B2 junction north to the U.S. 69/U.S.69B2 junction, milling and overlay, 14.6 miles, Heckert Construction Company Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $2,301,696.48.Greenwood ‑&nbsp;99‑37 KA‑3911‑01 ‑ K‑99, bridge #032 over Fall River located 2.3 miles south of the west U.S. 54 junction, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $3,796,175.77.Montgomery ‑&nbsp;166‑63 KA‑5685‑01 ‑ U.S. 166, bridge #039 (eastbound) over Onion Creek located 13.79 miles east of the south U.S. 75/U.S. 166 junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $63,593.05.Neosho ‑&nbsp;146‑67 KA‑5966‑01 ‑ K‑146, from the U.S. 59/K‑146 junction east to the Neosho/Crawford county line, milling and overlay, 9.0 miles, Heckert Construction Company Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $1,002,581.24.Statewide ‑&nbsp;169‑106 KA‑3255‑01 – U.S. 169, from approximately 3.0 miles north of the U.S. 169/K‑47 junction, north to 1.7 miles north of the Neosho/Allen county line, pavement reconstruction, 13.4 miles, Emery Sapp &amp; Sons Inc. and Subsidiaries, Columbia, Mo., $32,606,312.46.District Five — South CentralButler ‑&nbsp;400‑8 KA‑5689‑01 – U.S. 400, bridge #042 over the Little Walnut River located 3.7 miles east of east U.S. 77/U.S. 400 junction, bridge, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $566,136.35.Butler ‑&nbsp;177‑8 KA‑5691‑01 ‑ K‑177, bridge #123 over El Dorado Lake located 2.5 miles north of U.S. 54, bridge, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $733,769.90.Butler ‑&nbsp;77‑8 KA‑6028‑01 – U.S. 77, from the Cowley/Butler county line north to approximately 1,742 feet south of the Walnut River, sealing, 12.7 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $624,850.19.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 N‑0694‑01 ‑ North Main Street, from Grand Avenue north to the Wichita Valley Center Floodway Bridge in Haysville, pavement reconstruction, 0.5 mile, Cornejo &amp; Sons LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $1,335,869.01.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑4748‑01 – U.S. 54 and U.S. 400 in Ford, Kiowa, and Pratt counties, signing, 36.7 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $155,074.25.Statewide –&nbsp;106 KA‑4748‑02 ‑ K‑1 and U.S. 160 in Barber, Clark, and Comanche counties, signing, 49.2 miles, Signs Up LTD DBA Haren's Trees and Critters, Webster City, Iowa, $146,657.40.District Six — SouthwestHamilton ‑&nbsp;27‑38 KA‑3271‑01 ‑ K‑27, from the south city limits of Syracuse north to the east K‑27/U.S. 50 junction, pavement reconstruction, 0.6 mile, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $6,512,961.85.The following project has been approved from the Dec. 16, 2020, letting.Pratt ‑&nbsp;54‑76 KA‑5429‑01 – U.S. 54 from New Street to Mound Street in Pratt, pavement reconstruction, 0.1 mile,&nbsp;Vogts Parga Construction LLC, Newton, Kansas, $744,409.18.

I-70 bridge in Trego County among KDOT approved January bids

A family who practices good communication skills will become a strong, resilient family. It takes practice to develop good communication skills but the benefits are immense. During times of stress and anxiety, it takes patience to be warm and respectful. If positive, respectful communication is practiced it will become a habit.

Family communication is very important and it will determine how well-adjusted and satisfying family life is. “Basic Communication Skills” is an important section of K-State’s Essential Living Skills curriculum. The entire publication can be downloaded at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf</a>&nbsp;There are communication activities so family members can practice sharing their thoughts. In today’s world it is important that there is family discussion about what is happening and how it affects family members.&nbsp;

In addition to teaching children to share how they are feeling, it is also important to teach them to listen. Sometimes as we listen to what a person is saying, we start to think ahead to how we plan to respond. As parents it is so important to take the time to truly listen to what your children have to say. Children need to know that they have someone to trust and someone to listen to them. Ask questions to clarify and let the child know that that you understand. Effective listening does not mean that we agree with what is being said but it is important to be respectful.

Think about the way that you speak to your children. The way we talk can either build up or tear down their self-worth. When others treat us kindly and respectfully, we feel valued and our self-esteem grows. When we treat others negatively, we feel worthless and our self-concept suffers.

&nbsp;The Basic Communication Skills publication outlines how to use “I-messages” instead of “you-messages”. “You-messages” tend to sound blaming and the response might be anger and communication will shut down. An “I-message” has three parts: “When… (state the unacceptable behavior), I feel … (express feeling or behavior) because (describe the effect of the behavior).”&nbsp; An example would be “When I have to make supper without any help, I feel frustrated because I don’t have any extra time to spend with the kids.”

If all family members work on their communication skills, you will be amazed at the positive changes you will see in the family relationships.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A family who practices good communication skills will become a strong, resilient family. It takes practice to develop good communication skills but the benefits are immense. During times of stress and anxiety, it takes patience to be warm and respectful. If positive, respectful communication is practiced it will become a habit.Family communication is very important and it will determine how well-adjusted and satisfying family life is. “Basic Communication Skills” is an important section of K-State’s Essential Living Skills curriculum. The entire publication can be downloaded at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf</a>&nbsp;There are communication activities so family members can practice sharing their thoughts. In today’s world it is important that there is family discussion about what is happening and how it affects family members.&nbsp;In addition to teaching children to share how they are feeling, it is also important to teach them to listen. Sometimes as we listen to what a person is saying, we start to think ahead to how we plan to respond. As parents it is so important to take the time to truly listen to what your children have to say. Children need to know that they have someone to trust and someone to listen to them. Ask questions to clarify and let the child know that that you understand. Effective listening does not mean that we agree with what is being said but it is important to be respectful.Think about the way that you speak to your children. The way we talk can either build up or tear down their self-worth. When others treat us kindly and respectfully, we feel valued and our self-esteem grows. When we treat others negatively, we feel worthless and our self-concept suffers.&nbsp;The Basic Communication Skills publication outlines how to use “I-messages” instead of “you-messages”. “You-messages” tend to sound blaming and the response might be anger and communication will shut down. An “I-message” has three parts: “When… (state the unacceptable behavior), I feel … (express feeling or behavior) because (describe the effect of the behavior).”&nbsp; An example would be “When I have to make supper without any help, I feel frustrated because I don’t have any extra time to spend with the kids.”If all family members work on their communication skills, you will be amazed at the positive changes you will see in the family relationships.&nbsp;Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;&nbsp;She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Be a good communicator

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🎙 Post Podcast: The Center for Life Experiences helps area residents through loss

LENEXA -&nbsp; The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 has posted online the Compliance Assistance Webinar held Aug. 25, 2020, hosted by its Enforcement and Compliance Assurance staff. The webinar includes a discussion about Risk Management Program rule changes that affect agricultural facilities and a session for questions and researched answers.

Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act requires facilities that use extremely hazardous substances to develop risk management plans to prevent accidental releases that can cause serious harm to the public and the environment. In November 2019, EPA finalized changes to the Risk Management Program (RMP) Amendments to better address potential security risks, regulatory consistency, and reasonable consideration of costs.

The webinar discussion focuses on changes to incident investigations; public meetings following RMP-reportable accidents; emergency response exercises; and enhanced coordination with local emergency planners and responders.

To access a video recording and read a full description of the webinar, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nyz-2FMkaYSs8vQlWsZqt9WxXMNQjjQNvwJlrWLTk5A19A1-2BiJAFyXx4NNbYMzPLIMZHdgHI1xKEC3rifgkgP9kwVonEnxSv8wc5OJeNM8ag47H93L2VEQ1QwfxXX02BZh6ANY7OY1ZBPEuJV6V6-2FM29NpQT3BIHE2OPq0bu7xTpOgLaqYQNtDLsxUaqg83A7Up9YjaLJQDoXxvInNaWHInQfbL80hbiNepIwpYA6BflirUGsFe7YRVhyytiy3wVHwg-3D-3DtiNl_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah1mGc-2B-2B4U-2FjBL1JuZwhDjqiTIMmXIFNVw7A6AIz7qQFeUAFCTzBuPXhsRhWCerEPNZMwXBqFKv3lagmxEAF1PiG6KkD3gGPQl599pv1Z8pcQKIE8oqZn2fRSFynJ-2BwCOKYIgIuC-2FT-2FW0-2Fm8yKKpQq-2FGPYA8okimC1-2BdBmp34Ummc6sP8kf8aubctLen9MBycUew6gZh14PX60CZXD1HoKLFFsBW6V6bIpn3JONgFEFRjxm6wTOg8Db9EcPMBtZUg00P4QE2fNTLhXpu6ElXQSaQG-2BOf0AnzC0i44J4Z3qhRbhB0eQUCswvgnRdKDRK3YateO1gINSUgaQAqZZvIBn4e" target="_blank">www.epa.gov/ks/clean-air-act-section-112r-risk-management-program-compliance-assistance-webinar</a>. Click on the Microsoft®&nbsp;Teams link under&nbsp;Links&nbsp;to view the recording. Then you can open your Teams app, download the app, or watch on the web.

Course slides are available upon request by emailing to:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:r7publicaffairs@epa.gov" target="_blank">r7publicaffairs@epa.gov</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592424714240.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>EPALENEXA -&nbsp; The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 has posted online the Compliance Assistance Webinar held Aug. 25, 2020, hosted by its Enforcement and Compliance Assurance staff. The webinar includes a discussion about Risk Management Program rule changes that affect agricultural facilities and a session for questions and researched answers.Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act requires facilities that use extremely hazardous substances to develop risk management plans to prevent accidental releases that can cause serious harm to the public and the environment. In November 2019, EPA finalized changes to the Risk Management Program (RMP) Amendments to better address potential security risks, regulatory consistency, and reasonable consideration of costs.The webinar discussion focuses on changes to incident investigations; public meetings following RMP-reportable accidents; emergency response exercises; and enhanced coordination with local emergency planners and responders.To access a video recording and read a full description of the webinar, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nyz-2FMkaYSs8vQlWsZqt9WxXMNQjjQNvwJlrWLTk5A19A1-2BiJAFyXx4NNbYMzPLIMZHdgHI1xKEC3rifgkgP9kwVonEnxSv8wc5OJeNM8ag47H93L2VEQ1QwfxXX02BZh6ANY7OY1ZBPEuJV6V6-2FM29NpQT3BIHE2OPq0bu7xTpOgLaqYQNtDLsxUaqg83A7Up9YjaLJQDoXxvInNaWHInQfbL80hbiNepIwpYA6BflirUGsFe7YRVhyytiy3wVHwg-3D-3DtiNl_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah1mGc-2B-2B4U-2FjBL1JuZwhDjqiTIMmXIFNVw7A6AIz7qQFeUAFCTzBuPXhsRhWCerEPNZMwXBqFKv3lagmxEAF1PiG6KkD3gGPQl599pv1Z8pcQKIE8oqZn2fRSFynJ-2BwCOKYIgIuC-2FT-2FW0-2Fm8yKKpQq-2FGPYA8okimC1-2BdBmp34Ummc6sP8kf8aubctLen9MBycUew6gZh14PX60CZXD1HoKLFFsBW6V6bIpn3JONgFEFRjxm6wTOg8Db9EcPMBtZUg00P4QE2fNTLhXpu6ElXQSaQG-2BOf0AnzC0i44J4Z3qhRbhB0eQUCswvgnRdKDRK3YateO1gINSUgaQAqZZvIBn4e" target="_blank">www.epa.gov/ks/clean-air-act-section-112r-risk-management-program-compliance-assistance-webinar</a>. Click on the Microsoft®&nbsp;Teams link under&nbsp;Links&nbsp;to view the recording. Then you can open your Teams app, download the app, or watch on the web.Course slides are available upon request by emailing to:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:r7publicaffairs@epa.gov" target="_blank">r7publicaffairs@epa.gov</a>.

Learn how changes to Clean Air Act affect agricultural facilities

Three Ellis County students, two from Hays High School, and one from Ellis High School, submitted essays as part of the Kansas Masonic Essay Contest.

Essay submissions discussed the application of Masonic values such as: promoting morality, lifting the oppressed, respecting the laws of our government, and extending charity, and were judged based on content and form.

The three students were judged locally, with one student from each school eligible to be advanced to the next round, which came with a chance to earn the first place spot, and $4,000. 

Gace Eck of Ellis, and Ashley Vilaysing of Hays were selected to represent Ellis County in the state level contest.

"Ashley's essay was particularly moving, and addressed some of the biggest issues of our time. We are thrilled that she placed so highly. The entire community can be proud of her work."&nbsp;Tim Miller of the Hays Lodge said.

Vilaysing's submission was equally well received at the state level, and she was awarded fourth place, which comes with a $1,000 prize.

Three Ellis County students, two from Hays High School, and one from Ellis High School, submitted essays as part of the Kansas Masonic Essay Contest.Essay submissions discussed the application of Masonic values such as: promoting morality, lifting the oppressed, respecting the laws of our government, and extending charity, and were judged based on content and form.The three students were judged locally, with one student from each school eligible to be advanced to the next round, which came with a chance to earn the first place spot, and $4,000. Gace Eck of Ellis, and Ashley Vilaysing of Hays were selected to represent Ellis County in the state level contest."Ashley's essay was particularly moving, and addressed some of the biggest issues of our time. We are thrilled that she placed so highly. The entire community can be proud of her work."&nbsp;Tim Miller of the Hays Lodge said.Vilaysing's submission was equally well received at the state level, and she was awarded fourth place, which comes with a $1,000 prize.— Submitted

Hays, Ellis students earn honors in statewide essay challenge

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about healthy and unhealthy relationships, warning signs and prevention. Adolescents and adults are often unaware that teens experience dating violence. Unfortunately, it affects millions of teens in the U.S. each year. In 2010, to help raise awareness, the U.S. Congress enhanced what had been Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week to Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, based on the rising number of incidents in teens ages 11-17 across the country.&nbsp;

According to the 2017 Youth Behavior Surveillance Study report, nearly 1 in 11 female and 1 in 15 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence. In addition, about 1 in 9 female and 1 in 36 male high school students report having experienced sexual dating violence. According to the Center of Disease Control, during the pre-teen and teen years, it is critical for youth to begin learning the skills needed to create and maintain healthy relationships (Preventing teen dating violence, 2020).

Unhealthy or violent relationships can have severe short and long-term effects on a developing teen. Studies show teens who experience relationship violence face additional risk for developing a violent relationship later in life. In addition, they are likely to develop depression, abuse substances, or think about suicide. As a community, we have a responsibility to make dating and domestic violence an intolerable act – anytime, anywhere. Jana’s Campaign is encouraged people of Hays and surrounding communities recognize this as a social issue that can be eradicated. We are extremely grateful for the hundreds of people who believe in the #PowerOfPrevention and help support and fund our work.&nbsp;

To do our part for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Jana’s Campaign has developed a Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit to help communities understand, prevent and better respond to teen dating violence. The toolkit is free and can be found on the Jana’s Campaign website, <a href="http://www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html">www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html</a>. Additionally, Jana’s Campaign will post facts and statistics about Teen Dating Violence on our social media accounts throughout the month of February.

We believe through education we can change and improve attitudes, behaviors, customs, interactions, relations and social norms. Since 2013, Jana’s Campaign has worked with over 600 middle and high schools impacting over 73,000 students, including 6,065 K-12 students in Ellis County to educate about and prevent against gender and relationship violence. We commend these schools for understanding the importance of talking to their students about healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Throughout February and beyond, please join us in our efforts to educate and raise awareness about the hidden social disease of gender and relationship violence, dating and domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking. Learn more about Teen Dating Violence, our Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit and Jana’s Campaign at www.janascampaign.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are interested in inviting Jana’s Campaign&nbsp; to your school or community, please contact us at <a href="mailto:janascampaign@gmail.com">janascampaign@gmail.com</a> or call us at 785-656-0324.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578075822734.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jana's CampaignTeen Dating Violence Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about healthy and unhealthy relationships, warning signs and prevention. Adolescents and adults are often unaware that teens experience dating violence. Unfortunately, it affects millions of teens in the U.S. each year. In 2010, to help raise awareness, the U.S. Congress enhanced what had been Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week to Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, based on the rising number of incidents in teens ages 11-17 across the country.&nbsp;According to the 2017 Youth Behavior Surveillance Study report, nearly 1 in 11 female and 1 in 15 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence. In addition, about 1 in 9 female and 1 in 36 male high school students report having experienced sexual dating violence. According to the Center of Disease Control, during the pre-teen and teen years, it is critical for youth to begin learning the skills needed to create and maintain healthy relationships (Preventing teen dating violence, 2020).Unhealthy or violent relationships can have severe short and long-term effects on a developing teen. Studies show teens who experience relationship violence face additional risk for developing a violent relationship later in life. In addition, they are likely to develop depression, abuse substances, or think about suicide. As a community, we have a responsibility to make dating and domestic violence an intolerable act – anytime, anywhere. Jana’s Campaign is encouraged people of Hays and surrounding communities recognize this as a social issue that can be eradicated. We are extremely grateful for the hundreds of people who believe in the #PowerOfPrevention and help support and fund our work.&nbsp;To do our part for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Jana’s Campaign has developed a Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit to help communities understand, prevent and better respond to teen dating violence. The toolkit is free and can be found on the Jana’s Campaign website, <a href="http://www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html">www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html</a>. Additionally, Jana’s Campaign will post facts and statistics about Teen Dating Violence on our social media accounts throughout the month of February.We believe through education we can change and improve attitudes, behaviors, customs, interactions, relations and social norms. Since 2013, Jana’s Campaign has worked with over 600 middle and high schools impacting over 73,000 students, including 6,065 K-12 students in Ellis County to educate about and prevent against gender and relationship violence. We commend these schools for understanding the importance of talking to their students about healthy and unhealthy relationships.Throughout February and beyond, please join us in our efforts to educate and raise awareness about the hidden social disease of gender and relationship violence, dating and domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking. Learn more about Teen Dating Violence, our Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit and Jana’s Campaign at www.janascampaign.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are interested in inviting Jana’s Campaign&nbsp; to your school or community, please contact us at <a href="mailto:janascampaign@gmail.com">janascampaign@gmail.com</a> or call us at 785-656-0324.

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

The annual meeting of members/partners of Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) will take place virtually on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, 11:00 – 11:30 a.m., to take action on the following matters:

1. The report of officers. 2. 2020 Year in Review. 3. All other business which shall come before the meeting.

The 2021 Board of Directors consists of Megan Ball, Sarah Cearley, Alaina Cunningham, Karen Dreiling, David Herl, Mike Holliday, Sandy Keller, Patrick McGinnis, Kristiana Molina, Brett Ottley, Julie Rider, Andrew Taylor, and Shae Veach.

President: Mike Holliday Past President: Sarah Cearley Vice President: Julie Rider Secretary: Megan Ball Treasurer: David Herl

The regularly scheduled February Board of Directors meeting will immediately follow the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.

To request a Zoom link to the annual meeting, please send an email to Sara Bloom at dhdc@downtownhays.com or call 785-621-4171.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612307430707.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCThe annual meeting of members/partners of Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) will take place virtually on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, 11:00 – 11:30 a.m., to take action on the following matters:1. The report of officers. 2. 2020 Year in Review. 3. All other business which shall come before the meeting.The 2021 Board of Directors consists of Megan Ball, Sarah Cearley, Alaina Cunningham, Karen Dreiling, David Herl, Mike Holliday, Sandy Keller, Patrick McGinnis, Kristiana Molina, Brett Ottley, Julie Rider, Andrew Taylor, and Shae Veach.The 2021 slate of officers:President: Mike Holliday Past President: Sarah Cearley Vice President: Julie Rider Secretary: Megan Ball Treasurer: David HerlThe regularly scheduled February Board of Directors meeting will immediately follow the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.To request a Zoom link to the annual meeting, please send an email to Sara Bloom at dhdc@downtownhays.com or call 785-621-4171.

DHDC to hold virtual annual meeting February 10

By TONY MAURO Special correspondent for the Freedom Forum

Former President Donald Trump’s fiery Jan. 6 speech,
 made just before the U.S. Capitol riot began, led to his impeachment by
 the House of Representatives on a charge of “incitement of 
insurrection.”

But as the Senate prepares for Trump’s trial to resume Feb. 9, Harvard law professor <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/impeachment-over-protected-speech-would-harm-constitution-opinion-1560512?amp=1" target="_blank">Alan Dershowitz</a>
 and other scholars have pointed to a 1969 Supreme Court decision that, 
in their view, gives First Amendment protection to speakers who urge 
listeners to use force in certain circumstances. The decision strictly 
defines the legal concept of “incitement.” It is&nbsp;certain to be invoked 
as a reason Trump could avoid conviction, assuming the trial touches on 
the riot, rather than other issues.

The case, titled <a href="https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/395/444/" target="_blank">Brandenburg v. Ohio</a>, struck down a law that was used to prosecute Clarence Brandenburg,
 a Ku Klux Klan leader. Speaking at a rally in rural Ohio in 1964, 
Brandenburg said “revengeance” [sic] was needed against government 
institutions for suppressing the Caucasian race. Interestingly, he said 
that the “revengeance” would be wrought by “marching on Congress July 
the Fourth, four hundred thousand strong.”

The high court ruled that state laws making it a crime merely to 
advocate the use of violence violate the First Amendment. Only when the 
advocacy is aimed at inciting “imminent lawless action,” and is likely 
to succeed, may government prohibit it, the court stated unanimously.

Scholars who disagree that the Brandenburg ruling protects Trump 
argue he unequivocally incited imminent lawless action through comments 
he made shortly before the rally including, “You’ll never take back our 
country with weakness. You have to show strength and you have to be 
strong,” and “If you don’t fight like hell, you’re not going to have a 
country anymore.” Harvard Law School’s Einer Elhauge asserted in a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2021/01/14/trump-brandenburg-impeachment-first-amendment/">Washington Post column</a>, “Trump’s conduct clearly meets the legal standard that Brandenburg set.”

As the sides invoke the ruling to support their positions in the coming days, here is a primer on Brandenburg v. Ohio.

IMPACT: The Brandenburg decision is seen as one of 
the most expansive interpretations of the First Amendment ever announced
 by the Supreme Court. The late New York Times columnist Anthony Lewis
 wrote that Brandenburg “gave the greatest protection to what could be 
called subversive speech that it has ever had in the United States, and 
almost certainly greater than such speech has in any other country.”

BACKGROUND: Following the assassination of President William McKinley
 in 1901 by an anarchist and the start of the communist movement in 
1917, states began passing anti-sedition laws and so-called “criminal 
syndicalism” statutes. These laws, passed in 33 states, prohibited 
teaching or advocating the use of violence or crime to bring about 
political or economic change. The motivation behind the syndicalism laws
 in most cases was to discourage the spread of socialist or communist 
anti-capitalist views.

The Brandenburg case concerned not a communist, but a Klan leader. 
With the cameras of a local TV crew rolling, the red-hooded Clarence 
Brandenburg spoke to a Klan rally held at a farm in Hamilton County, 
Ohio, and made a threat laced with racist slurs: “We’re not a revengent 
organization, but if our president, our Congress, our Supreme Court, 
continues to suppress the white, Caucasian race, it’s possible that 
there might have to be some revengeance.” His pledge to march “on 
Congress July the Fourth” could not fit the definition of “imminent 
lawless action.”

Based on his speech, Brandenburg was convicted for violating the 
state’s criminal syndicalism law, fined $1,000 and sentenced to one to 
10 years in prison. He appealed, challenging the law as a violation of 
his free speech rights. The Supreme Court of Ohio dismissed the appeal, 
setting the stage for U.S. Supreme Court review.

VOTE: Brandenburg won. The eight sitting justices at the time were Chief Justice Earl Warren and Justices Hugo Black, William O. Douglas, John M. Harlan, William J. Brennan Jr., Potter Stewart, Byron White and Thurgood Marshall. The ruling was issued unsigned, rather than under the name of a specific justice. There were no dissents.

Tony Mauro is contributing U.S. Supreme Court correspondent for 
the National Law Journal and ALM Media and a special correspondent for 
the Freedom Forum. This article includes excerpts from Mauro’s 2006 
book, “Illustrated Great Decisions of the Supreme Court, Second 
Edition.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575569932510.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY MAURO Special correspondent for the Freedom Forum Former President Donald Trump’s fiery Jan. 6 speech,
 made just before the U.S. Capitol riot began, led to his impeachment by
 the House of Representatives on a charge of “incitement of 
insurrection.”But as the Senate prepares for Trump’s trial to resume Feb. 9, Harvard law professor <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/impeachment-over-protected-speech-would-harm-constitution-opinion-1560512?amp=1" target="_blank">Alan Dershowitz</a>
 and other scholars have pointed to a 1969 Supreme Court decision that, 
in their view, gives First Amendment protection to speakers who urge 
listeners to use force in certain circumstances. The decision strictly 
defines the legal concept of “incitement.” It is&nbsp;certain to be invoked 
as a reason Trump could avoid conviction, assuming the trial touches on 
the riot, rather than other issues.The case, titled <a href="https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/395/444/" target="_blank">Brandenburg v. Ohio</a>, struck down a law that was used to prosecute Clarence Brandenburg,
 a Ku Klux Klan leader. Speaking at a rally in rural Ohio in 1964, 
Brandenburg said “revengeance” [sic] was needed against government 
institutions for suppressing the Caucasian race. Interestingly, he said 
that the “revengeance” would be wrought by “marching on Congress July 
the Fourth, four hundred thousand strong.”The high court ruled that state laws making it a crime merely to 
advocate the use of violence violate the First Amendment. Only when the 
advocacy is aimed at inciting “imminent lawless action,” and is likely 
to succeed, may government prohibit it, the court stated unanimously.Scholars who disagree that the Brandenburg ruling protects Trump 
argue he unequivocally incited imminent lawless action through comments 
he made shortly before the rally including, “You’ll never take back our 
country with weakness. You have to show strength and you have to be 
strong,” and “If you don’t fight like hell, you’re not going to have a 
country anymore.” Harvard Law School’s Einer Elhauge asserted in a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2021/01/14/trump-brandenburg-impeachment-first-amendment/">Washington Post column</a>, “Trump’s conduct clearly meets the legal standard that Brandenburg set.”As the sides invoke the ruling to support their positions in the coming days, here is a primer on Brandenburg v. Ohio.DATE: Decided June 9, 1969IMPACT: The Brandenburg decision is seen as one of 
the most expansive interpretations of the First Amendment ever announced
 by the Supreme Court. The late New York Times columnist Anthony Lewis
 wrote that Brandenburg “gave the greatest protection to what could be 
called subversive speech that it has ever had in the United States, and 
almost certainly greater than such speech has in any other country.”BACKGROUND: Following the assassination of President William McKinley
 in 1901 by an anarchist and the start of the communist movement in 
1917, states began passing anti-sedition laws and so-called “criminal 
syndicalism” statutes. These laws, passed in 33 states, prohibited 
teaching or advocating the use of violence or crime to bring about 
political or economic change. The motivation behind the syndicalism laws
 in most cases was to discourage the spread of socialist or communist 
anti-capitalist views.The Brandenburg case concerned not a communist, but a Klan leader. 
With the cameras of a local TV crew rolling, the red-hooded Clarence 
Brandenburg spoke to a Klan rally held at a farm in Hamilton County, 
Ohio, and made a threat laced with racist slurs: “We’re not a revengent 
organization, but if our president, our Congress, our Supreme Court, 
continues to suppress the white, Caucasian race, it’s possible that 
there might have to be some revengeance.” His pledge to march “on 
Congress July the Fourth” could not fit the definition of “imminent 
lawless action.”Based on his speech, Brandenburg was convicted for violating the 
state’s criminal syndicalism law, fined $1,000 and sentenced to one to 
10 years in prison. He appealed, challenging the law as a violation of 
his free speech rights. The Supreme Court of Ohio dismissed the appeal, 
setting the stage for U.S. Supreme Court review.VOTE: Brandenburg won. The eight sitting justices at the time were Chief Justice Earl Warren and Justices Hugo Black, William O. Douglas, John M. Harlan, William J. Brennan Jr., Potter Stewart, Byron White and Thurgood Marshall. The ruling was issued unsigned, rather than under the name of a specific justice. There were no dissents.Tony Mauro is contributing U.S. Supreme Court correspondent for 
the National Law Journal and ALM Media and a special correspondent for 
the Freedom Forum. This article includes excerpts from Mauro’s 2006 
book, “Illustrated Great Decisions of the Supreme Court, Second 
Edition.”

FIRST FIVE: A First Amendment case that may be key to Trump trial

Due to COVID-19 quarantine protocols, Friday's Hays High School junior varsity girls game against Dodge City has been canceled, USD 489 announced Friday afternoon.

All other games will be played at regularly scheduled times.

Due to COVID-19 quarantine protocols, Friday's Hays High School junior varsity girls game against Dodge City has been canceled, USD 489 announced Friday afternoon.All other games will be played at regularly scheduled times.

Hays JV girls game called due to COVID-19 quarantine

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained flat at seven.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also announced two additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 64.

<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

There were 27 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 88 active cases, including four active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,448 recovered cases.

As of Friday, there were 17 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 18 on Thursday, with seven of those active patients and 10 in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from 11 percent on Wednesday to 7.5 percent on Friday.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,536 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.

NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612551192102.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: Feb. 5, 2021" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/73j46-f9d16d?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained flat at seven.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also announced two additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 64.<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.There were 27 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 88 active cases, including four active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,448 recovered cases.As of Friday, there were 17 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 18 on Thursday, with seven of those active patients and 10 in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from 11 percent on Wednesday to 7.5 percent on Friday.Since reporting began, there have been 3,536 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612559030232.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Per-day virus rate flat in Ellis Co.; two additional deaths reported

Rapid COVID-19 testing at Fort Hays State University has begun after a variant of the virus was identified through the university's routine testing program on Wednesday.

The on-campus testing began at 9 a.m. Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum and is expected to run until 2 p.m., with results expected in 48 hours.

Ellis County health services director Jason Kennedy said Friday morning free community testing is also ongoing inside Big Creek Crossing with a new provider and will be available for the foreseeable future, but the KDHE will also allow community testing at the FHSU site if desired.

The ongoing community testing at Big Creek Crossing will be inside during the weekend as cold weather moves into the area but will return outside as conditions allow, Kennedy said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8bd6c354-592d-47f0-97e9-a5e103f3988d">To read more about the COVID-19 variant and the actions being taken by FHSU and the Ellis County Health Department click here.</a>

Rapid COVID-19 testing at Fort Hays State University has begun after a variant of the virus was identified through the university's routine testing program on Wednesday.The on-campus testing began at 9 a.m. Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum and is expected to run until 2 p.m., with results expected in 48 hours.Ellis County health services director Jason Kennedy said Friday morning free community testing is also ongoing inside Big Creek Crossing with a new provider and will be available for the foreseeable future, but the KDHE will also allow community testing at the FHSU site if desired.The ongoing community testing at Big Creek Crossing will be inside during the weekend as cold weather moves into the area but will return outside as conditions allow, Kennedy said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8bd6c354-592d-47f0-97e9-a5e103f3988d">To read more about the COVID-19 variant and the actions being taken by FHSU and the Ellis County Health Department click here.</a>

COVID-19 testing begins at FHSU; free community testing also available

COLBY - The Colby Community College Athletic Department announced ticketing policies for home basketball, volleyball and wrestling events after Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference presidents voted this week to allow 25 percent seating capacity at each league venue.

At the Colby Community Building, 270 seats will be available. Team benches have been moved to the north side of the gym, and fans will sit on the south side.

No tickets will be sold at the door on the day of a game.

Beginning Monday, Feb. 8, single-game tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets</a>. Current CCC students and employees will be issued a code to claim tickets for upcoming games. Students may redeem their code for one ticket, and CCC employees may redeem their code for up to four tickets.

After Feb. 10, tickets will become available for upcoming games one week in advance. All tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Admission for the season will be $5 for adults and $3 for children. All tickets will be general admission until at least Feb. 16. At a later date, reserved seating will be available. Tickets should be printed at home or presented on a mobile device to be scanned prior to entry.

<figure>
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 </figure>CCCCOLBY - The Colby Community College Athletic Department announced ticketing policies for home basketball, volleyball and wrestling events after Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference presidents voted this week to allow 25 percent seating capacity at each league venue.At the Colby Community Building, 270 seats will be available. Team benches have been moved to the north side of the gym, and fans will sit on the south side.No tickets will be sold at the door on the day of a game. Beginning Monday, Feb. 8, single-game tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets</a>. Current CCC students and employees will be issued a code to claim tickets for upcoming games. Students may redeem their code for one ticket, and CCC employees may redeem their code for up to four tickets.After Feb. 10, tickets will become available for upcoming games one week in advance. All tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis.Admission for the season will be $5 for adults and $3 for children. All tickets will be general admission until at least Feb. 16. At a later date, reserved seating will be available. Tickets should be printed at home or presented on a mobile device to be scanned prior to entry.The first opportunity to see the Trojans comes on Feb. 10 when the women’s and men’s basketball teams host Cowley County. CCC volleyball plays Pratt on Feb. 15, and wrestling takes on Cloud County and Barton Feb. 16.Under KJCCC and Colby Community College policies, masks must be worn properly at all times while in attendance, and social distancing is required. In addition, there will be no concessions sold, and outside food or drink is prohibited. Fans will not be screened before entry, but anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or has recently been exposed is asked to stay home and watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/livestreaming" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/livestreaming</a>.The KJCCC will re-evaluate the current policy on March 1.For more information, contact CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mike.saddler@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">mike.saddler@colbycc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (785) 460-5548.