Tabitha Keith joined CASA of the High Plains as executive director on Oct. 17.

Her history with the organization will help her ease into the new position. Keith spent a year at CASA of the High Plains as a Bachelors of Social Work Practicum Student for Washburn University. In the midst of her internship, Keith was hired by CASA of the High Plains as the Transitional Age Youth Specialist.

Keith then spent two years at the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center as a forensic interviewer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I may be young, but my passion and hard work for the cause give me the edge needed for the role,” Keith said. “I look forward to bringing a new perspective to the organization.”

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. CASA of the High Plains’ vision is to ensure that abused and neglected children have a voice in the court system.&nbsp; To do so, CASA recruits, trains and supports community members to advocate in court for the best interest for this vulnerable population. This organization serves children in the 23rd Judicial District in Kansas, including Ellis, Gove, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp; &nbsp;

CASA of the High Plains is growing and in need of volunteers and board members. To learn more and get involved, contact the office at 785-628-8641 or <a href="http://casahighplains@kansascasa.org">casahighplains@kansascasa.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604353376996.jpeg" alt="Tabitha Keith" />
 <figcaption>Tabitha Keith</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTabitha Keith joined CASA of the High Plains as executive director on Oct. 17.Her history with the organization will help her ease into the new position. Keith spent a year at CASA of the High Plains as a Bachelors of Social Work Practicum Student for Washburn University. In the midst of her internship, Keith was hired by CASA of the High Plains as the Transitional Age Youth Specialist.Keith then spent two years at the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center as a forensic interviewer.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I may be young, but my passion and hard work for the cause give me the edge needed for the role,” Keith said. “I look forward to bringing a new perspective to the organization.”CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. CASA of the High Plains’ vision is to ensure that abused and neglected children have a voice in the court system.&nbsp; To do so, CASA recruits, trains and supports community members to advocate in court for the best interest for this vulnerable population. This organization serves children in the 23rd Judicial District in Kansas, including Ellis, Gove, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp; &nbsp;CASA of the High Plains is growing and in need of volunteers and board members. To learn more and get involved, contact the office at 785-628-8641 or <a href="http://casahighplains@kansascasa.org">casahighplains@kansascasa.org</a>.

CASA of the High Plains welcomes Keith as new director

&nbsp;Join your local Ducks Unlimited Team for the DU Fun Shoot this Saturday, November 7th, from 1-5pm at the Hays City Sportsmans Club.&nbsp; Tickets are just $35 and includes 2 rounds of trap, chili feed, free BEER, DU Membership, and free raffle ticket for a gun of choice from the DU Great Gun Giveaway!!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Registration begins at noon, and it is first come, first served as tickets will be limited to the first 100 shooters.&nbsp; There will be chances to win up to 7 guns &nbsp;and the opportunity to shoot five stand and the “Hot Shot” shoot.&nbsp; A stretch raffle, banner raffle, and silent auction will also be included in the event.&nbsp;

Tickets can be purchased in advance at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksdu.org/">www.ksdu.org</a>&nbsp;or at the event.&nbsp; For those wanting to attend the event but not participate in the shoot, discounted tickets of $15 will be available.&nbsp;

Longtime DU committee member Mark Maskus says, “this is a great warm up for the pheasant season opener next weekend!!”&nbsp; 

This is a fun shoot and all are welcome!!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604427729115.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Join your local Ducks Unlimited Team for the DU Fun Shoot this Saturday, November 7th, from 1-5pm at the Hays City Sportsmans Club.&nbsp; Tickets are just $35 and includes 2 rounds of trap, chili feed, free BEER, DU Membership, and free raffle ticket for a gun of choice from the DU Great Gun Giveaway!!&nbsp;&nbsp;Registration begins at noon, and it is first come, first served as tickets will be limited to the first 100 shooters.&nbsp; There will be chances to win up to 7 guns &nbsp;and the opportunity to shoot five stand and the “Hot Shot” shoot.&nbsp; A stretch raffle, banner raffle, and silent auction will also be included in the event.&nbsp; Tickets can be purchased in advance at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksdu.org/">www.ksdu.org</a>&nbsp;or at the event.&nbsp; For those wanting to attend the event but not participate in the shoot, discounted tickets of $15 will be available.&nbsp; Longtime DU committee member Mark Maskus says, “this is a great warm up for the pheasant season opener next weekend!!”&nbsp; This is a fun shoot and all are welcome!!

Three-day weather outlook

CALIFORNIA DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS IS OWNED BY MIKE AND MARLA KNAUS FROM QUINTER, KANSAS!&nbsp; THEIR PRODUCT COMES FROM CALIFORNIA AND IS THIS YEAR'S CROP!&nbsp; THEY HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 4 YEARS AND STRIVE TO BRING YOU QUALITY DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS!

California Dried Fruit and Nuts WILL BE SELLING AT THE WHISKEY CREEK BANQUET ROOM (3203 VINE, USE THE SOUTH BACK DOOR) ON NOVEMBER 6 &amp; 7.&nbsp; HOURS ARE 9:00 AM TO 6:00 PM!&nbsp; COME AND GET YOUR GOODIES FOR THE THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS!&nbsp; They HAVE SOME NEW PRODUCTS THIS YEAR!&nbsp; You won't want to miss it!

CALIFORNIA DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS IS OWNED BY MIKE AND MARLA KNAUS FROM QUINTER, KANSAS!&nbsp; THEIR PRODUCT COMES FROM CALIFORNIA AND IS THIS YEAR'S CROP!&nbsp; THEY HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 4 YEARS AND STRIVE TO BRING YOU QUALITY DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS!California Dried Fruit and Nuts WILL BE SELLING AT THE WHISKEY CREEK BANQUET ROOM (3203 VINE, USE THE SOUTH BACK DOOR) ON NOVEMBER 6 &amp; 7.&nbsp; HOURS ARE 9:00 AM TO 6:00 PM!&nbsp; COME AND GET YOUR GOODIES FOR THE THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS!&nbsp; They HAVE SOME NEW PRODUCTS THIS YEAR!&nbsp; You won't want to miss it!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603311075710.jpeg" alt="" />
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2 hospitalized after NW Kan. rear-end crash

KANSAS CITY, KAN.&nbsp;— A&nbsp;man from Mexico pleaded guilty Monday to driving more than one kilogram of heroin to Kansas, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said in a news release.

Orlando Alexis Gaxiola-Guevara, 24, a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. He and another man were stopped on Interstate 70 in Logan County. Gaxiola-Guevara presented an identification that said he was from a city in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico. Officers found more than one kilogram of heroin hidden in the quarter panels of the car.

Sentencing is set for Jan.25. &nbsp;He could face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million. 

McAllister commended the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle McFarlane for their work on the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564606812819.png" alt="Orlando Alexis Gaxiola-Guevara photo Wyandotte Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Orlando Alexis Gaxiola-Guevara photo Wyandotte Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN.&nbsp;— A&nbsp;man from Mexico pleaded guilty Monday to driving more than one kilogram of heroin to Kansas, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said in a news release.Orlando Alexis Gaxiola-Guevara, 24, a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. He and another man were stopped on Interstate 70 in Logan County. Gaxiola-Guevara presented an identification that said he was from a city in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico. Officers found more than one kilogram of heroin hidden in the quarter panels of the car.Sentencing is set for Jan.25. &nbsp;He could face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $10 million. McAllister commended the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle McFarlane for their work on the case.

NW Kansas stop leads to guilty plea on heroin charges

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days rose from 11 on Friday to 12 on Monday.

On Oct. 2, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/095697ac-eb4b-4005-867a-bb049ec8c10f">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays commissioners vote to extend mask ordinance</a>

There were 32 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 129 active cases, including three active hospitalizations, and 1,332 recovered cases.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests increase to 21.7 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 1,479 cases of coronavirus identified in Ellis County, including 18 deaths.

Of the total 10,612 tests administered, 13.2 percent have returned&nbsp; positive for COVID-19.

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 the figures might not necessarily correspond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604340973668.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days rose from 11 on Friday to 12 on Monday.On Oct. 2, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/095697ac-eb4b-4005-867a-bb049ec8c10f">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays commissioners vote to extend mask ordinance</a>There were 32 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 129 active cases, including three active hospitalizations, and 1,332 recovered cases.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests increase to 21.7 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 1,479 cases of coronavirus identified in Ellis County, including 18 deaths.Of the total 10,612 tests administered, 13.2 percent have returned&nbsp; positive for COVID-19.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 the figures might not necessarily correspond.<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>

Per-day virus case average rises again in Ellis Co.; 32 new cases since Friday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The director of Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas said he continues to look for positives despite the dark cloud of COVID-19.

Jerry Michaud, DSNWK executive director, spoke to the Hays Chamber Membership Luncheon on Friday with a follow-up interview with the Hays Post.

"One of the biggest challenges has been remaining diligent to the point we actually had a conflict in values," he said.&nbsp;

The value of freedom and access and the need to protect people who may be medically vulnerable are in direct opposition at times, Michaud said.

Many of the people DSNWK serves both have developmental disabilities and medical conditions.&nbsp;

"This is what I was talking about in this rub between how do you honor and facilitate choice and freedoms to just move about and be about and in community with the responsibility to make sure people aren't at risk and put at risk," he said.

Michaud said DSNWK, as is the rest of society, is trying to do the best it can.

"We've struggled trying to know what is the right, what is enough, what is not enough," he said. "That struggle is real. We have experienced the negative effect of this virus on people we serve. We know the reality of what that can mean in their passing."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1116377-e693-45f8-97d1-ad0d73fc1ea9">DSNWK reported a COVID-19 cluster at one of its living facilities in September. One long-time resident who tested positive died.</a>

Michaud said he is trying to to see the glass as half full, but he and the DSNWK family all long for a solution to the pandemic.

"It has forced us to do things to respond in a way that is counter to inclusion," he said.

DSNWK is doing its due diligence to try to keep both its clients and workers safe, he said. This has included extra cleaning, social distancing, wearing masks and, at times, restricting visitors to homes or limiting the number of clients in its day center, the Reed Center.

Michaud said DSNWK has had to be flexible during the COVID-19 pandemic. There has been times the Reed Center has been closed entirely. Right now, the Reed Center is working with a type of hybrid model.

People in certain living groups are limited to certain days at the center or separate living groups are isolated in different parts of the building.

Residences have had to close to outside visitors at times depending on positive cases or quarantines. The organizations have used alternate sites when it has had residents who were COVID positive and negative living in the same home.

Michaud said as the virus slows, DSNWK has tried to open back up facilities.

"We have to be nibble enough to throw the brakes on pretty fast," he said, " and we do that."

Restricting families access to their loved ones has been especially tough. At the beginning of the pandemic, some families choose to take their loved ones out of services and keep them at home.

"It has been hard just as family members trying to go visit a nursing facility where the doors are closed," he said. "It's a struggle."

Technology has been used to help keep people connected with services, and families and clients with friends. The tech was used for telemedicine visits as well.

DSNWK has received grant funds to assist in the purchase of some of this technology.

Michaud said the pandemic has been difficult on DSNWK staff too. Some have been concerned about working in a home where residents are COVID-19 positive.

However, staff members stepped up at those homes to work longer shifts to reduce the number of people who were exposed to clients.

Staff also did caravans outside of homes that had to closed for COVID precautions to keep clients connected.

"Our staff has been absolutely stellar," he said, "in the midst of what can be pretty scary individually, because each of them had their own health situation. ...

"We've landed at this is about people. They need us, and they need our support whether they might be testing positive or not."

DSNWK is a non-profit agency. It received Payroll Protection Program funding and Ellis County SPARK CARES Act funding, which has been helpful in covering wages and purchasing PPE.

However, it has also seen a decrease in revenue as some families chose to keep loved ones home from services.

Disabled services have historically received reimbursements from the state that are lower than the cost of providing services, which means wages for workers have been low.

Service providers were supposed to receive a funding increase in July, but that has been rescinded because lower state revenues, Michaud said.

"In light of the pandemic, and it can almost serve as a dark cloud over things," Michaud said, "but in spite of that there have been some beautiful moments where you get to the core of what is really important.

"Some of those relationships with our families have become a little bit more solid because when you can't have something — the regular contact — boy do you treasure it when you do."

He added, "I long for the day we can be back to a day with better sense of connections with each other, because people miss them, miss each other. 

"People miss their friends. ... We are using technology to keep people connected. It is different than the normal rhythms of life, but we'll get through it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604089958166.jpeg" alt="Jerry Michaud, DSNWK executive director, talks to Hays Chamber members Friday about the challenges the agency has faced during COVID-19." />
 <figcaption>Jerry Michaud, DSNWK executive director, talks to Hays Chamber members Friday about the challenges the agency has faced during COVID-19.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe director of Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas said he continues to look for positives despite the dark cloud of COVID-19.Jerry Michaud, DSNWK executive director, spoke to the Hays Chamber Membership Luncheon on Friday with a follow-up interview with the Hays Post."One of the biggest challenges has been remaining diligent to the point we actually had a conflict in values," he said.&nbsp;The value of freedom and access and the need to protect people who may be medically vulnerable are in direct opposition at times, Michaud said.Many of the people DSNWK serves both have developmental disabilities and medical conditions.&nbsp;"This is what I was talking about in this rub between how do you honor and facilitate choice and freedoms to just move about and be about and in community with the responsibility to make sure people aren't at risk and put at risk," he said.Michaud said DSNWK, as is the rest of society, is trying to do the best it can."We've struggled trying to know what is the right, what is enough, what is not enough," he said. "That struggle is real. We have experienced the negative effect of this virus on people we serve. We know the reality of what that can mean in their passing."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1116377-e693-45f8-97d1-ad0d73fc1ea9">DSNWK reported a COVID-19 cluster at one of its living facilities in September. One long-time resident who tested positive died.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602261714960.jpeg" alt="DSNWK" />
 <figcaption>DSNWK</figcaption>
 </figure>Michaud said he is trying to to see the glass as half full, but he and the DSNWK family all long for a solution to the pandemic."It has forced us to do things to respond in a way that is counter to inclusion," he said.DSNWK is doing its due diligence to try to keep both its clients and workers safe, he said. This has included extra cleaning, social distancing, wearing masks and, at times, restricting visitors to homes or limiting the number of clients in its day center, the Reed Center.Michaud said DSNWK has had to be flexible during the COVID-19 pandemic. There has been times the Reed Center has been closed entirely. Right now, the Reed Center is working with a type of hybrid model.People in certain living groups are limited to certain days at the center or separate living groups are isolated in different parts of the building.Residences have had to close to outside visitors at times depending on positive cases or quarantines. The organizations have used alternate sites when it has had residents who were COVID positive and negative living in the same home.Michaud said as the virus slows, DSNWK has tried to open back up facilities."We have to be nibble enough to throw the brakes on pretty fast," he said, " and we do that."Restricting families access to their loved ones has been especially tough. At the beginning of the pandemic, some families choose to take their loved ones out of services and keep them at home."It has been hard just as family members trying to go visit a nursing facility where the doors are closed," he said. "It's a struggle."Technology has been used to help keep people connected with services, and families and clients with friends. The tech was used for telemedicine visits as well.DSNWK has received grant funds to assist in the purchase of some of this technology.Michaud said the pandemic has been difficult on DSNWK staff too. Some have been concerned about working in a home where residents are COVID-19 positive.However, staff members stepped up at those homes to work longer shifts to reduce the number of people who were exposed to clients.Staff also did caravans outside of homes that had to closed for COVID precautions to keep clients connected."Our staff has been absolutely stellar," he said, "in the midst of what can be pretty scary individually, because each of them had their own health situation. ..."We've landed at this is about people. They need us, and they need our support whether they might be testing positive or not."DSNWK is a non-profit agency. It received Payroll Protection Program funding and Ellis County SPARK CARES Act funding, which has been helpful in covering wages and purchasing PPE.However, it has also seen a decrease in revenue as some families chose to keep loved ones home from services.Disabled services have historically received reimbursements from the state that are lower than the cost of providing services, which means wages for workers have been low.Service providers were supposed to receive a funding increase in July, but that has been rescinded because lower state revenues, Michaud said."In light of the pandemic, and it can almost serve as a dark cloud over things," Michaud said, "but in spite of that there have been some beautiful moments where you get to the core of what is really important."Some of those relationships with our families have become a little bit more solid because when you can't have something — the regular contact — boy do you treasure it when you do."He added, "I long for the day we can be back to a day with better sense of connections with each other, because people miss them, miss each other. "People miss their friends. ... We are using technology to keep people connected. It is different than the normal rhythms of life, but we'll get through it."

DSNWK struggles to balance safety with inclusion during COVID-19

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) has announced members of his 2020 Service Academy Selection Board. The 20-member board will review applications and interview candidates who are applying for admission to U.S. Service Academies.

“Nominating Kansas students to attend service academies is one of my greatest responsibilities as a United States Senator,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;

“Especially this year, I am proud of these young students for their desire to serve our nation, even as they continue to navigate the challenges of COVID-19. I’m grateful to my Service Academy Selection Board for the thoughtful consideration they put into the application process. These students applying to enter service academies represent Kansas’ best qualities – hardworking, dedicated and humble – and I look forward to receiving the selection board’s recommendations and meeting with these students virtually.”

Applications will be reviewed, and selected applicants will be interviewed virtually by the selection board on Saturday, November 14. The U.S. Service Academies include the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

Sen. Moran’s 2020 Service Academy Selection Board:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stephonn Alcorn of Gardner&nbsp;— Former Student Body President University of Kansas, Associate of the Blackstone Group;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lt. Col. (RET) Bob Brock of Topeka&nbsp;– Director of Aviation, Kansas Department of Transportation, U.S. Air Force veteran;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Myca Bunch of Garden City&nbsp;– President, Garden City Area Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Air Force veteran;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;LTC (Ret) Larry Burks, Sr., of Wichita&nbsp;– Director, Military and Veteran Services, Wichita State University, U.S. Army veteran;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dennis Butler of Manhattan&nbsp;– Director, Riley County Police Department;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;COL John Cluck of Wathena&nbsp;– Mayor, City of Wathena, Vice Commander, 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ardith Dunn, Ph.D., of Satanta&nbsp;– Retired high school mathematics/computer instructor, K-12 superintendent, mother of U.S. Air Force Academy graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sue Givens of El Dorado&nbsp;– Field Specialist, Kansas Association of School Boards, Retired K-12 superintendent;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Robin Jackson, Ph.D., of Hutchinson&nbsp;– Central Christian College Professor of Science and Mathematics;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cheryl Kerns of Overland Park&nbsp;– Blue Valley West High School teacher, mother of U.S. Military Academy graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brian Kessens of Overland Park&nbsp;– Tortoise Capital managing director, U.S. Military Academy graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Katrina Lewison of Manhattan&nbsp;– USD 383 Board of Education Member, Purple Heart recipient, U.S. Military Academy graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jill McCarthy of Overland Park&nbsp;—&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City Area Development Council Senior Executive Corporate Attraction and mother of U.S. Military Academy Graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jayne Humphrey Pearce of Wallace&nbsp;– Wallace County Visitors Bureau Marketing and Tourism Director, U.S. Air Force veteran, mother of U.S. Air Force Academy graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sean Ritchie of Wichita&nbsp;– Cargill North American Operations Lead, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Halley Roberson of Oberlin&nbsp;– City Administrator, City of Oberlin, U.S. Army veteran;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sam Turner of Leawood&nbsp;– Retired Shawnee Mission Medical Center CEO, Vietnam War veteran, U.S. Army veteran;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ron Whitney of Emporia&nbsp;– American Legion member, Veterans of Foreign Wars member, U.S. Army veteran;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beth Wilson of Girard&nbsp;– Business education teacher, Girard High School, mother of U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jacob Wood of Salina&nbsp;– Deputy City Manager, City of Salina, Major U.S. Army Reserves, Served in Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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 </figure>Office of Sen. MoranWASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) has announced members of his 2020 Service Academy Selection Board. The 20-member board will review applications and interview candidates who are applying for admission to U.S. Service Academies.“Nominating Kansas students to attend service academies is one of my greatest responsibilities as a United States Senator,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Especially this year, I am proud of these young students for their desire to serve our nation, even as they continue to navigate the challenges of COVID-19. I’m grateful to my Service Academy Selection Board for the thoughtful consideration they put into the application process. These students applying to enter service academies represent Kansas’ best qualities – hardworking, dedicated and humble – and I look forward to receiving the selection board’s recommendations and meeting with these students virtually.”Applications will be reviewed, and selected applicants will be interviewed virtually by the selection board on Saturday, November 14. The U.S. Service Academies include the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.Sen. Moran’s 2020 Service Academy Selection Board:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stephonn Alcorn of Gardner&nbsp;— Former Student Body President University of Kansas, Associate of the Blackstone Group;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lt. Col. (RET) Bob Brock of Topeka&nbsp;– Director of Aviation, Kansas Department of Transportation, U.S. Air Force veteran;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Myca Bunch of Garden City&nbsp;– President, Garden City Area Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Air Force veteran;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;LTC (Ret) Larry Burks, Sr., of Wichita&nbsp;– Director, Military and Veteran Services, Wichita State University, U.S. Army veteran;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dennis Butler of Manhattan&nbsp;– Director, Riley County Police Department;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;COL John Cluck of Wathena&nbsp;– Mayor, City of Wathena, Vice Commander, 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ardith Dunn, Ph.D., of Satanta&nbsp;– Retired high school mathematics/computer instructor, K-12 superintendent, mother of U.S. Air Force Academy graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sue Givens of El Dorado&nbsp;– Field Specialist, Kansas Association of School Boards, Retired K-12 superintendent;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Robin Jackson, Ph.D., of Hutchinson&nbsp;– Central Christian College Professor of Science and Mathematics;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cheryl Kerns of Overland Park&nbsp;– Blue Valley West High School teacher, mother of U.S. Military Academy graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brian Kessens of Overland Park&nbsp;– Tortoise Capital managing director, U.S. Military Academy graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Katrina Lewison of Manhattan&nbsp;– USD 383 Board of Education Member, Purple Heart recipient, U.S. Military Academy graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jill McCarthy of Overland Park&nbsp;—&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City Area Development Council Senior Executive Corporate Attraction and mother of U.S. Military Academy Graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jayne Humphrey Pearce of Wallace&nbsp;– Wallace County Visitors Bureau Marketing and Tourism Director, U.S. Air Force veteran, mother of U.S. Air Force Academy graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sean Ritchie of Wichita&nbsp;– Cargill North American Operations Lead, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Halley Roberson of Oberlin&nbsp;– City Administrator, City of Oberlin, U.S. Army veteran;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sam Turner of Leawood&nbsp;– Retired Shawnee Mission Medical Center CEO, Vietnam War veteran, U.S. Army veteran;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ron Whitney of Emporia&nbsp;– American Legion member, Veterans of Foreign Wars member, U.S. Army veteran;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beth Wilson of Girard&nbsp;– Business education teacher, Girard High School, mother of U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jacob Wood of Salina&nbsp;– Deputy City Manager, City of Salina, Major U.S. Army Reserves, Served in Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

NW Kansans selected to Service Academy Selection Board

Jan Burkholder is still putting children first after 41 years of teaching in the Hays USD 489 school district.

Burkholder, a second-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, has been selected as the October Hays Post Teacher of the Month.

Burkholder was nominated by her son, Joshua Burkholder. Joshua's son is in Jan's class this school year.&nbsp;

"She continues to put the children in her class first, sacrificing her time to make sure they are getting the best learning experience possible in this time," he said.&nbsp;

"She continues to come back year after year in order to make sure the students who would be in her classes have the best learning experience possible.

"She has seen generations of students come and go and continues to teach in a way that makes the kids feel loved and valued as a person."

Although Jan, 65, has not made it official, she said she will likely retire at the end of this school year — another reason Joshua said he nominated his mom for the award.

"I guess I don't really think about what I do each day," she said. "It is my job. I come to school each day, do things to the best of my ability and just shower those kids with love. ...

"It is just my job to help every child every day."

Burkholder grew up in Natoma, where she said her first-grade teacher, Mrs. Tucker, was an early inspiration for her to become a teacher.

"She was that model I would like to be," Burkholder said. "She gave us lots and lots of love. She made learning fun. I just wanted to be with her all day long."

She said she always loved being with kids. She babysat and helped with Sunday school when she was a teenager.&nbsp;

She graduated from Fort Hays State University with a degree in elementary education and later returned to earn a master's degree in elementary counseling.

However, she said she much prefers her work in the classroom and chose to apply the skills she learned in grad school in the classroom setting.

Burkholder did her student teaching at Roosevelt and was lucky to land a job right out of college at the same school teaching first grade.

Burkholder eventually moved to second grade. She spent one year doing looping with a second grade class into third grade. She said she has fond memories of spending two years with those students.&nbsp;

She said she has always enjoyed teaching younger students.

"Especially with the primary students, they look up to the teacher. They still respect the teacher," she said. "They are so anxious to learn, and they come to school every day ready to learn something new. 

"They are kind of like my little sponges. Everything that I give to them they just absorb. It is just fun to watch them grow. They gain so much ground as a primary student."

Second graders are more independent than the kindergarteners, so Burkholder said she has the best of both worlds, children who are more independent, but still love to learn.

She said she loves that each day is different.

"I can never depend on every day being exactly the same or maybe even being what I planned on it to be," she said. "Each day is different for me with new experiences, new pleasures, new challenges, and I enjoy that."

When Burkholder considers her teaching philosophy, she likes to go back to the district goal — providing the best quality education for each one of the students every day that they are in school.&nbsp;

When schools shut down in the spring because of COVID-19, Burkholder said she faced the toughest challenge she has as a teacher.

Teaching through Zoom was not the same as being on site, she said.

"The kids are so excited about being back in the classroom, and teachers love being back in the classroom too. We did the best we could," she said.

The district's decision to move to one-to-one technology for students saved the district last spring when students had to learn remotely, she said.

However, Burkholder said she thought students really need the social contact they get in the classroom. She said her classes were set up for 30-minute Zoom session in the spring, but they often went more than an hour because the kids needed the opportunity to interact with each other.&nbsp;

Burkholder said she has many good memories of her students, but also of the staff with whom she has worked.

She chuckled as she remembered the time the Roosevelt principal got his tie stuck in the laminator and he had to cut it off.

"I am humbled to have this recognition, but it is not an individual accomplishment," she said. "The Roosevelt staff is so loving, so caring, so kind, plus we just like to have to have fun with each other. ...

"We have always been a school that is bonded as family as well as lovin' on those kids."

After four decades as a teacher, Burkholder said she has seen everything. She said teaching methods tend to cycle over the years.

When she first started teaching, the emphasis was on individual instruction. Then the shift went to whole language, with a greater emphasis on the group.&nbsp; In some ways the shift has been back to a whole group experience also with some guided reading.

"I think it takes a little bit of all different methods to make it work," she said.&nbsp;

Technology has changed, families may have changed, but Burkholder said kids are still kids and they are still learners.

Burkholder said she has always loved teaching reading. She shared one of her favorite books with the children this week, "The Ghost Eye Tree" by Bill Martin. She also enjoys reading "Little House on the Prairie" by&nbsp;Laura Ingalls Wilder to the children, annually in January.

She also loves offering hands-on science lessons to her students like the Can You Make Your Boat Float Challenge. The students create small boats and then compete against each other to see which boat can hold the most pennies.

Burkholder has been a mentor for many student teachers. As her student teacher from the spring started her first year of teaching kindergarten this year, Burkholder encouraged her to make her classroom her own.

"The best thing I told her going out was use the model you have from me. Use the strategies that you saw me teaching," she said, "but still make it your classroom. Make it fit you and your personality and the students and make it the best teaching experience for them each day."&nbsp;

Burkholder said she hopes to do some traveling with her husband in her retirement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603901709009.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603989887733.jpeg" alt="Hays Post Teacher of the Month Jan Burkholder and her second-grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School. Submitted photos" />
 <figcaption>Hays Post Teacher of the Month Jan Burkholder and her second-grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School. Submitted photos</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostJan Burkholder is still putting children first after 41 years of teaching in the Hays USD 489 school district.Burkholder, a second-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, has been selected as the October Hays Post Teacher of the Month.Burkholder was nominated by her son, Joshua Burkholder. Joshua's son is in Jan's class this school year.&nbsp;"She continues to put the children in her class first, sacrificing her time to make sure they are getting the best learning experience possible in this time," he said.&nbsp;"She continues to come back year after year in order to make sure the students who would be in her classes have the best learning experience possible."She has seen generations of students come and go and continues to teach in a way that makes the kids feel loved and valued as a person."Although Jan, 65, has not made it official, she said she will likely retire at the end of this school year — another reason Joshua said he nominated his mom for the award."I guess I don't really think about what I do each day," she said. "It is my job. I come to school each day, do things to the best of my ability and just shower those kids with love. ..."It is just my job to help every child every day."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603990042465.jpeg" alt="Jan Burkholder outside Roosevelt Elementary School where she has taught for 41 years." />
 <figcaption>Jan Burkholder outside Roosevelt Elementary School where she has taught for 41 years.</figcaption>
 </figure>Burkholder grew up in Natoma, where she said her first-grade teacher, Mrs. Tucker, was an early inspiration for her to become a teacher."She was that model I would like to be," Burkholder said. "She gave us lots and lots of love. She made learning fun. I just wanted to be with her all day long."She said she always loved being with kids. She babysat and helped with Sunday school when she was a teenager.&nbsp;She graduated from Fort Hays State University with a degree in elementary education and later returned to earn a master's degree in elementary counseling.However, she said she much prefers her work in the classroom and chose to apply the skills she learned in grad school in the classroom setting.Burkholder did her student teaching at Roosevelt and was lucky to land a job right out of college at the same school teaching first grade.Burkholder eventually moved to second grade. She spent one year doing looping with a second grade class into third grade. She said she has fond memories of spending two years with those students.&nbsp;She said she has always enjoyed teaching younger students."Especially with the primary students, they look up to the teacher. They still respect the teacher," she said. "They are so anxious to learn, and they come to school every day ready to learn something new. "They are kind of like my little sponges. Everything that I give to them they just absorb. It is just fun to watch them grow. They gain so much ground as a primary student."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603990134365.jpeg" alt="Jan Burkholder, Roosevelt second-grade teacher, said she has not made it official but plans to retire at the end of the school year after teaching 41 years in the district." />
 <figcaption>Jan Burkholder, Roosevelt second-grade teacher, said she has not made it official but plans to retire at the end of the school year after teaching 41 years in the district.</figcaption>
 </figure>Second graders are more independent than the kindergarteners, so Burkholder said she has the best of both worlds, children who are more independent, but still love to learn.She said she loves that each day is different."I can never depend on every day being exactly the same or maybe even being what I planned on it to be," she said. "Each day is different for me with new experiences, new pleasures, new challenges, and I enjoy that."When Burkholder considers her teaching philosophy, she likes to go back to the district goal — providing the best quality education for each one of the students every day that they are in school.&nbsp;When schools shut down in the spring because of COVID-19, Burkholder said she faced the toughest challenge she has as a teacher.Teaching through Zoom was not the same as being on site, she said."The kids are so excited about being back in the classroom, and teachers love being back in the classroom too. We did the best we could," she said.The district's decision to move to one-to-one technology for students saved the district last spring when students had to learn remotely, she said.However, Burkholder said she thought students really need the social contact they get in the classroom. She said her classes were set up for 30-minute Zoom session in the spring, but they often went more than an hour because the kids needed the opportunity to interact with each other.&nbsp;Burkholder said she has many good memories of her students, but also of the staff with whom she has worked.She chuckled as she remembered the time the Roosevelt principal got his tie stuck in the laminator and he had to cut it off."I am humbled to have this recognition, but it is not an individual accomplishment," she said. "The Roosevelt staff is so loving, so caring, so kind, plus we just like to have to have fun with each other. ..."We have always been a school that is bonded as family as well as lovin' on those kids."After four decades as a teacher, Burkholder said she has seen everything. She said teaching methods tend to cycle over the years.When she first started teaching, the emphasis was on individual instruction. Then the shift went to whole language, with a greater emphasis on the group.&nbsp; In some ways the shift has been back to a whole group experience also with some guided reading."I think it takes a little bit of all different methods to make it work," she said.&nbsp;Technology has changed, families may have changed, but Burkholder said kids are still kids and they are still learners.Burkholder said she has always loved teaching reading. She shared one of her favorite books with the children this week, "The Ghost Eye Tree" by Bill Martin. She also enjoys reading "Little House on the Prairie" by&nbsp;Laura Ingalls Wilder to the children, annually in January.She also loves offering hands-on science lessons to her students like the Can You Make Your Boat Float Challenge. The students create small boats and then compete against each other to see which boat can hold the most pennies.Burkholder has been a mentor for many student teachers. As her student teacher from the spring started her first year of teaching kindergarten this year, Burkholder encouraged her to make her classroom her own."The best thing I told her going out was use the model you have from me. Use the strategies that you saw me teaching," she said, "but still make it your classroom. Make it fit you and your personality and the students and make it the best teaching experience for them each day."&nbsp;Burkholder said she hopes to do some traveling with her husband in her retirement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603901709009.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Teacher of the Month: 41-year veteran teacher still loving kids every day

What was your motivation for seeking the office of county
treasurer?

I am running for office to help
ensure the Treasury Department makes sound investments with taxpayer money,
help decrease spending, and bring back the trust and professionalism to a
public office. I want to increase efficiency within the Treasury department,
and I will work full-time ensuring accuracy and ease of transactions without
increased cost to the taxpayers. The people want someone who will get the job
done, do it right, save them money, and be 100% reliable. 

What experience do you have that is relevant to the
office?

Throughout my life, I have worked
as a financial advisor, salesman, District Manager, and now as the Landfill
Foreman as a supervisor of a division of Public Works. With these positions I
have held, I have learned financial skills through the advising, the drive and
motivation needed for any job through my salesman position, the managerial
skills necessary for employees and budgeting through my District Manager
position, and with my current position within Ellis County. These last few years
I know how the County Government system operates, I know the current budgeting
situation, and know it is going to take all elected officials and staff working
together to keep Ellis County moving forward, both effectively and efficiently.

What areas of the office do you believe needs improvement
and what changes would you implement?

I want to wrangle in some spending
that is unnecessary for the taxpayer to cover. For example, the actual total
spent in 2019 for the line items in the budget for “Rental Cars, Planes, Bus”
and “Subsistence (Hotels, Food, etc.)” was $10,592.00. I believe in trainings
and networking, but not at a cost that extensive when Ellis County owns a car for
all employees to use for necessary travel is a bit excessive. Changes like adjusting
that spending and other areas, including working every day by staff’s side,
going to commission meetings, attending department head meetings, and enhancing
the citizens’ experience in the Treasury. I am also exploring the addition of
kiosks to help staff and citizens by reducing wait times like in Johnson and
Sedgwick counties by 30%. Embracing technology for the people who need the
flexibility to get to our office is something we should at least explore.

Why do you believe you are the most qualified candidate
for the position?

In the
short time I have worked for Ellis County, I have been able to really get
involved with other local &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;officials,
state officials, and fellow employees on how our local government system
operates. I have really been able to get into the budget discussions, such as
when I present to the Commission every year line by line, and really see where
the improvements can come from. Our local government, both elected officials
and staff must work together as a team to keep Ellis County on the right track.
When we waste our time arguing or not even speaking to one another, the
citizens suffer. I feel like I can bring my work experience I described with my
motivation for teamwork to reconnect to the rest of the County and give the
citizens a Treasury they can be proud of.

The treasurer’s office handles the county’s finances, how
would you be a good steward of the county’s money?

Currently, I oversee County money
in my position within Public Works. I will continue what I believe should be
done now with County funds, to not spend it frivolously. It is not my money. It
is every single Ellis County taxpaying citizens’ money. Sound investment and
financial practices available for the County to see openly, are what we need. I
will be vocal, in person, at the County Commission meetings letting the public
and governing body know where and how our funds are invested.

The treasurer’s office works with every department within
the county, what would you do to improve relationships with other departments?

I will be available. If you need
to visit with me, come by my office and chat, call, email, whatever your
preferred method of communication is, I am open for discussion. I will be
available to all who wish to speak to me. I will attend every department head
meeting I can, even right now we meet by Zoom, but I am still at the meetings,
barring duty calling. Listening to criticisms and working professionally to
either adapt or correct issues will be done. All problems have a solution when
you enlist the help of others who may have the expertise to tackle it. I will
reach out to my fellow elected officials and department heads as open
communication is the absolute key to getting the job done. I already follow all
the practices I have listed above.

Name: Vern Ruder Party Affiliation: RepublicanWhat was your motivation for seeking the office of county
treasurer?I am running for office to help
ensure the Treasury Department makes sound investments with taxpayer money,
help decrease spending, and bring back the trust and professionalism to a
public office. I want to increase efficiency within the Treasury department,
and I will work full-time ensuring accuracy and ease of transactions without
increased cost to the taxpayers. The people want someone who will get the job
done, do it right, save them money, and be 100% reliable. What experience do you have that is relevant to the
office?Throughout my life, I have worked
as a financial advisor, salesman, District Manager, and now as the Landfill
Foreman as a supervisor of a division of Public Works. With these positions I
have held, I have learned financial skills through the advising, the drive and
motivation needed for any job through my salesman position, the managerial
skills necessary for employees and budgeting through my District Manager
position, and with my current position within Ellis County. These last few years
I know how the County Government system operates, I know the current budgeting
situation, and know it is going to take all elected officials and staff working
together to keep Ellis County moving forward, both effectively and efficiently.What areas of the office do you believe needs improvement
and what changes would you implement?I want to wrangle in some spending
that is unnecessary for the taxpayer to cover. For example, the actual total
spent in 2019 for the line items in the budget for “Rental Cars, Planes, Bus”
and “Subsistence (Hotels, Food, etc.)” was $10,592.00. I believe in trainings
and networking, but not at a cost that extensive when Ellis County owns a car for
all employees to use for necessary travel is a bit excessive. Changes like adjusting
that spending and other areas, including working every day by staff’s side,
going to commission meetings, attending department head meetings, and enhancing
the citizens’ experience in the Treasury. I am also exploring the addition of
kiosks to help staff and citizens by reducing wait times like in Johnson and
Sedgwick counties by 30%. Embracing technology for the people who need the
flexibility to get to our office is something we should at least explore.Why do you believe you are the most qualified candidate
for the position?In the
short time I have worked for Ellis County, I have been able to really get
involved with other local &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;officials,
state officials, and fellow employees on how our local government system
operates. I have really been able to get into the budget discussions, such as
when I present to the Commission every year line by line, and really see where
the improvements can come from. Our local government, both elected officials
and staff must work together as a team to keep Ellis County on the right track.
When we waste our time arguing or not even speaking to one another, the
citizens suffer. I feel like I can bring my work experience I described with my
motivation for teamwork to reconnect to the rest of the County and give the
citizens a Treasury they can be proud of.The treasurer’s office handles the county’s finances, how
would you be a good steward of the county’s money?Currently, I oversee County money
in my position within Public Works. I will continue what I believe should be
done now with County funds, to not spend it frivolously. It is not my money. It
is every single Ellis County taxpaying citizens’ money. Sound investment and
financial practices available for the County to see openly, are what we need. I
will be vocal, in person, at the County Commission meetings letting the public
and governing body know where and how our funds are invested.The treasurer’s office works with every department within
the county, what would you do to improve relationships with other departments?I will be available. If you need
to visit with me, come by my office and chat, call, email, whatever your
preferred method of communication is, I am open for discussion. I will be
available to all who wish to speak to me. I will attend every department head
meeting I can, even right now we meet by Zoom, but I am still at the meetings,
barring duty calling. Listening to criticisms and working professionally to
either adapt or correct issues will be done. All problems have a solution when
you enlist the help of others who may have the expertise to tackle it. I will
reach out to my fellow elected officials and department heads as open
communication is the absolute key to getting the job done. I already follow all
the practices I have listed above.

Ellis County Treasurer Candidate: Vernon Ruder

What was your motivation for seeking the office of county treasurer?

I believe change is needed in our local government. Rather
than sit idly by, I decided to take action to be the change I want to see.&nbsp; 

What experience do you have that is relevant to the office?

I have over seven years
of management experience that has given me the tools to effectively lead the
treasury. In my experiences, I have been responsible for budgeting, generating
revenue, customer service relations, and human resources. I believe all my
experiences, both as a member of the team and the team leader, have given the
knowledge and drive to be a successful community leader.

I plan to re-establish positive relations between the
Treasury, commissioners, and county departmental heads.&nbsp; Stop wasteful spending through transparency
and accountability of all county departments.&nbsp;
Create a positive environment and best possible experience for both
visitors and workers of the Treasury department. Ensure economic sustainability
and continued financial growth for the county.

Why do you believe you are the most qualified candidate for
the position?

The County Treasurer
has the duty to ensure continued growth on both the government and civilian
level. I will explore every option to ensure that I fulfill that duty. I will
work in cooperation with local and state entities no matter their party affiliation
and firmly believe decisions should be made for what is best for the people.

I would make
financial and audit reports readily available for public viewing by publishing
them online for easy access anytime as well as paper copies available upon
request. I would make the department budget detailed to lay out exactly what
county dollars are being spent on in the Treasury. Everything needs to be
documented and readily available not only for transparency but accountability.
One of my fist actions would be to ensure that a camera system is installed and
operational to help ensure the accountability of myself and the department
staff to local and state officials.

There is a clear division
amongst elected officials, departmental heads, and county staff. There will
always be disagreements on the different issues and policies. It is important
that people on both sides talk and try to understand their opponents view. It
is vital that everyone work together, and I pledge to work with individuals of
all levels and with the public. I believe all voices should be heard and
considered with decisions made based on what is best for the people of Ellis
County.

Name: Julie MercerParty Affiliation: DemocratWhat was your motivation for seeking the office of county treasurer?I believe change is needed in our local government. Rather
than sit idly by, I decided to take action to be the change I want to see.&nbsp; What experience do you have that is relevant to the office?I have over seven years
of management experience that has given me the tools to effectively lead the
treasury. In my experiences, I have been responsible for budgeting, generating
revenue, customer service relations, and human resources. I believe all my
experiences, both as a member of the team and the team leader, have given the
knowledge and drive to be a successful community leader.What areas of the office do you believe needs improvement
and what changes would you implement?I plan to re-establish positive relations between the
Treasury, commissioners, and county departmental heads.&nbsp; Stop wasteful spending through transparency
and accountability of all county departments.&nbsp;
Create a positive environment and best possible experience for both
visitors and workers of the Treasury department. Ensure economic sustainability
and continued financial growth for the county.Why do you believe you are the most qualified candidate for
the position?The County Treasurer
has the duty to ensure continued growth on both the government and civilian
level. I will explore every option to ensure that I fulfill that duty. I will
work in cooperation with local and state entities no matter their party affiliation
and firmly believe decisions should be made for what is best for the people.The treasurer’s office handles the county’s finances, how
would you be a good steward of the county’s money?I would make
financial and audit reports readily available for public viewing by publishing
them online for easy access anytime as well as paper copies available upon
request. I would make the department budget detailed to lay out exactly what
county dollars are being spent on in the Treasury. Everything needs to be
documented and readily available not only for transparency but accountability.
One of my fist actions would be to ensure that a camera system is installed and
operational to help ensure the accountability of myself and the department
staff to local and state officials.The treasurer’s office works with every department within
the county, what would you do to improve relationships with other departments?There is a clear division
amongst elected officials, departmental heads, and county staff. There will
always be disagreements on the different issues and policies. It is important
that people on both sides talk and try to understand their opponents view. It
is vital that everyone work together, and I pledge to work with individuals of
all levels and with the public. I believe all voices should be heard and
considered with decisions made based on what is best for the people of Ellis
County.

Ellis County Treasurer Candidate: Julie Mercer

Party
Affiliation: Republican Write-in

What was
your motivation for seeking the office of county treasurer?

Vern Ruder will work for the politicians. As Treasurer, I
work for YOU. I enjoy learning what the best Treasuries in the country do and
making that happen here. My work has made our Treasury millions of dollars. I
want to continue to make my living working for you. With me as Treasurer,
everybody wins. I love my staff; I love meeting and talking with the public.
You will make a wise investment if you mark the bubble, then write-in “Lisa
Schlegel” on your ballot. I am from Ellis County and I work for Ellis County. I
will continue to make smart decisions that benefit the community I live in, to
be the honest voice for the citizens whose money I am in charge of bookkeeping.
I enjoy educating the citizens about where money goes, and investigating each
and every way I can make the Treasury better and stronger. 

What
experience do you have that is relevant to the office?

Having executed the duties of Treasurer for several years, my
past performance is the best indicator of my future performance. I am a Level 2
Certified Kansas County Finance Officer, with almost a decade of supervisory
management experience. My opponent has only been a supervisor since 2017.
Furthermore, being the only candidate without a spouse or child that works for
the county, I am beholden only to the voters of Ellis County. Without the
conflicting interests and pressures of nepotism, voters can guarantee my first
priority, as it always has been, is their interests. Vern Ruder’s motivation is
to make more money and populate Ellis County with more Ruders, like his son
Mason Ruder, who works for the City of Hays. If the voters show the politicians
what they want and what they will not settle for, all this bad behavior will
stop. It is truly up to the voters. 

What areas
of the office do you believe needs improvement and what changes would you implement?

Within my first year, the money I made the county paid for my
salary for all 4 years of my term. The Treasury operates like a strong private
sector organization. I was first in Ellis County to revise office hours, along
with making stronger county contractual agreements and investments. I put in
the time, negotiation, and research to strengthen the Treasury in all facets. Right
now, things are running very well. My resume includes record
percentage-collection on taxes, hosting the first ever annual tax sales, and
millions of dollars from banking proposals and investments that make your money
safer, too. All three audits conducted on the Treasury yielded a perfect record
for my performance. I aim to “maintain the gains,” which are unprecedented. I
guarantee you Vern Ruder cannot maintain those gains, and will take away from
local jobs by outsourcing jobs to “kiosks,” as he said two months ago. The only
change Vern will bring is disorder, and a further removal of transparency and
voter power.&nbsp; 

Why do you
believe you are the most qualified candidate for the position?

This question has nothing to do with “belief” or “opinion.”
Whether or not the busy voters of Ellis County know the facts is the issue, I
am the best-qualified candidate; belief simply does not come into play. 

The
treasurer’s office handles the county’s finances, how would you be a good
steward of the county’s money?

I am the best steward of Ellis County’s money any Treasurer
has been. That will not change, except for that as I learn more, I will be an
even more powerful negotiator on behalf of the taxpayers for any and all
contracts I oversee. Vern is not a good steward of the county’s resources in
his current job, so why would voters trust a man whose failure to adhere to
standard operating procedures caused a building to burn down? If he were an employee of anyone else other
than his current boss, who is also the boss of his son, he would no longer work
for the county based on the gross negligence he’s exhibited.

The
treasurer’s office works with every department within the county, what would
you do to improve relationships with other departments?

Win. There are no issues to improve that cannot be solved by
voters. Secondly, the Treasury works well with other departments. A small group
of misbehaved people need to be “schooled” by the voters, pun intended. We need
quality; not more of the same old family members who want their relatives to
work for the county. The departments: Sheriff’s, Public Works, IT have “issues”
because Sherry Dryden’s husband wanted her to work for the County, before he
was asked to resign from the Sheriff’s. The Ruder family has political goals,
so Vern’s son bullied me on social media and by calling multiple times, as did
Vern, through the Public Works department. Julie Mercer’s husband worked in Technology,
and though she no longer lives here and is not a serious candidate, many people
think she was pressured to run by the IT department head. Nepotism is an issue
only voters can nip in the bud when they VOTE. All the nastiness and lies are
propelled by familial ties who want better jobs. 

Name: Lisa
SchlegelParty
Affiliation: Republican Write-inWhat was
your motivation for seeking the office of county treasurer?Vern Ruder will work for the politicians. As Treasurer, I
work for YOU. I enjoy learning what the best Treasuries in the country do and
making that happen here. My work has made our Treasury millions of dollars. I
want to continue to make my living working for you. With me as Treasurer,
everybody wins. I love my staff; I love meeting and talking with the public.
You will make a wise investment if you mark the bubble, then write-in “Lisa
Schlegel” on your ballot. I am from Ellis County and I work for Ellis County. I
will continue to make smart decisions that benefit the community I live in, to
be the honest voice for the citizens whose money I am in charge of bookkeeping.
I enjoy educating the citizens about where money goes, and investigating each
and every way I can make the Treasury better and stronger. What
experience do you have that is relevant to the office?Having executed the duties of Treasurer for several years, my
past performance is the best indicator of my future performance. I am a Level 2
Certified Kansas County Finance Officer, with almost a decade of supervisory
management experience. My opponent has only been a supervisor since 2017.
Furthermore, being the only candidate without a spouse or child that works for
the county, I am beholden only to the voters of Ellis County. Without the
conflicting interests and pressures of nepotism, voters can guarantee my first
priority, as it always has been, is their interests. Vern Ruder’s motivation is
to make more money and populate Ellis County with more Ruders, like his son
Mason Ruder, who works for the City of Hays. If the voters show the politicians
what they want and what they will not settle for, all this bad behavior will
stop. It is truly up to the voters. What areas
of the office do you believe needs improvement and what changes would you implement?Within my first year, the money I made the county paid for my
salary for all 4 years of my term. The Treasury operates like a strong private
sector organization. I was first in Ellis County to revise office hours, along
with making stronger county contractual agreements and investments. I put in
the time, negotiation, and research to strengthen the Treasury in all facets. Right
now, things are running very well. My resume includes record
percentage-collection on taxes, hosting the first ever annual tax sales, and
millions of dollars from banking proposals and investments that make your money
safer, too. All three audits conducted on the Treasury yielded a perfect record
for my performance. I aim to “maintain the gains,” which are unprecedented. I
guarantee you Vern Ruder cannot maintain those gains, and will take away from
local jobs by outsourcing jobs to “kiosks,” as he said two months ago. The only
change Vern will bring is disorder, and a further removal of transparency and
voter power.&nbsp; Why do you
believe you are the most qualified candidate for the position?This question has nothing to do with “belief” or “opinion.”
Whether or not the busy voters of Ellis County know the facts is the issue, I
am the best-qualified candidate; belief simply does not come into play. The
treasurer’s office handles the county’s finances, how would you be a good
steward of the county’s money?I am the best steward of Ellis County’s money any Treasurer
has been. That will not change, except for that as I learn more, I will be an
even more powerful negotiator on behalf of the taxpayers for any and all
contracts I oversee. Vern is not a good steward of the county’s resources in
his current job, so why would voters trust a man whose failure to adhere to
standard operating procedures caused a building to burn down? If he were an employee of anyone else other
than his current boss, who is also the boss of his son, he would no longer work
for the county based on the gross negligence he’s exhibited.The
treasurer’s office works with every department within the county, what would
you do to improve relationships with other departments?Win. There are no issues to improve that cannot be solved by
voters. Secondly, the Treasury works well with other departments. A small group
of misbehaved people need to be “schooled” by the voters, pun intended. We need
quality; not more of the same old family members who want their relatives to
work for the county. The departments: Sheriff’s, Public Works, IT have “issues”
because Sherry Dryden’s husband wanted her to work for the County, before he
was asked to resign from the Sheriff’s. The Ruder family has political goals,
so Vern’s son bullied me on social media and by calling multiple times, as did
Vern, through the Public Works department. Julie Mercer’s husband worked in Technology,
and though she no longer lives here and is not a serious candidate, many people
think she was pressured to run by the IT department head. Nepotism is an issue
only voters can nip in the bud when they VOTE. All the nastiness and lies are
propelled by familial ties who want better jobs.

Ellis County Treasurer Candidate: Lisa Schlegel

Berny Unruh, Cottonwood District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent will present “Healthy Cooking with Air Fryers” on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 5:30 pm at the Cottonwood Extension Office, 601 Main, Hays, Kansas. Another opportunity to attend the program is on Thursday, Nov. 5,&nbsp;at 5:30 at the Ellis Rec Commission Office, 1204 Washington in Ellis.&nbsp;

Air fryers cook food by circulating extremely hot air around the food. The unit contains a basket to hold food, an electric heating element and a fan to circulate the hot air. These small size appliances can provide a healthier alternative to conventional frying because they use little or no oil during the cooking process. The demonstration will include commonly cooked foods and tested recipes will be shared. The information presented will be helpful in making the decision about whether or not to purchase an air fryer.&nbsp;

The program will be held in the large meeting room and social distancing will be practiced. Registration for the program would be greatly appreciated by calling the Extension Office at 785-628-9430 or completing the secure form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/AirFryerEllisCo">https://tinyurl.com/AirFryerEllisCo</a>&nbsp;so an adequate number of handouts will be available.

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>Berny Unruh, Cottonwood District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent will present “Healthy Cooking with Air Fryers” on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 5:30 pm at the Cottonwood Extension Office, 601 Main, Hays, Kansas. Another opportunity to attend the program is on Thursday, Nov. 5,&nbsp;at 5:30 at the Ellis Rec Commission Office, 1204 Washington in Ellis.&nbsp;Air fryers cook food by circulating extremely hot air around the food. The unit contains a basket to hold food, an electric heating element and a fan to circulate the hot air. These small size appliances can provide a healthier alternative to conventional frying because they use little or no oil during the cooking process. The demonstration will include commonly cooked foods and tested recipes will be shared. The information presented will be helpful in making the decision about whether or not to purchase an air fryer.&nbsp;The program will be held in the large meeting room and social distancing will be practiced. Registration for the program would be greatly appreciated by calling the Extension Office at 785-628-9430 or completing the secure form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/AirFryerEllisCo">https://tinyurl.com/AirFryerEllisCo</a>&nbsp;so an adequate number of handouts will be available.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>

Extension offers session on healthy cooking with air fryers

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey for the proposed replacement of the Wolf Creek drainage bridge on K-18 in Russell County the week of Nov. 2.

The bridge is located approximately 1 mile east of the K-232 junction. Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. KDOT expects to complete the survey work in approximately three weeks.

Crews will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property, if access is needed. Michael Selley, field survey project manager, will oversee the survey for KDOT.

Persons with questions may contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey for the proposed replacement of the Wolf Creek drainage bridge on K-18 in Russell County the week of Nov. 2.The bridge is located approximately 1 mile east of the K-232 junction. Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. KDOT expects to complete the survey work in approximately three weeks.Crews will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property, if access is needed. Michael Selley, field survey project manager, will oversee the survey for KDOT.Persons with questions may contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>.

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