PLAINVILLE — Rooks County Health Center has purchased the former Dessin Fournir Companies building at 308 W. Mill St. in Plainville. The property will be reconfigured into a multi-use site and will eventually house some of the hospital’s current business and administrative offices.&nbsp;

Describing the reasoning behind the acquisition, AJ Thomas, CEO of RCH explained, “We had the opportunity to purchase a beautiful&nbsp;building at a bank auction for a fraction of the cost it would take to build such a structure on the hospital campus.&nbsp;The hospital continues to grow and expand services and space is a premium. Just in the past year we added 10 full-time employees.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Thomas, the initial changes to the building will enable RCH to provide a safe living space for RCH staff if they have family members in quarantine who have tested positive for the coronavirus. Eventually these living spaces will house medical students who train at RCH as well as visiting physicians.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since opening its new facility north of Plainville in 2008, RCH has expanded its role not only within the county, but also throughout northwest Kansas, drawing many to Rooks County for services. A new MRI/Nuclear Medicine suite opened in 2015 followed by a new Rehabilitation Center completed last November. In the last 15 years, RCH has added nearly 50 full-time employees to the payroll.

This is the second off-campus purchase for the hospital. In 2014 RCH purchased the JJ’s Auto lot on the north side of the intersection of Hwy. 183 and Hwy. 18. &nbsp;The hospital remodeled the property into a multi-use space. According to Thomas the property is offered rent-free for county EMS and EMT training, as well as economic development meetings. It also houses the vans for the Rooks County Transportation System while the French Press coffee house leases the smaller building.

The funds to enable the purchase of the downtown property came from a hospital-specific program created by the federal CARES Act, which is administered by the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

While nearly 1 million dollars from a different federal program were made available to Rooks County some months ago, RCH declined to request any portion of those funds in favor of that money flowing through to schools, nursing home facilities and other county entities for their response to COVID-19.

Although RCH is considered tax exempt, the hospital did not seek a tax exemption on its first acquisition and, according to Thomas, they do not intend to seek an exemption for its latest purchase. RCH pays approximately $5,300 a year in property tax on the JJ’s lot and expects to pay about $10,000 a year in tax on the new site.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587050349548.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RCHPLAINVILLE — Rooks County Health Center has purchased the former Dessin Fournir Companies building at 308 W. Mill St. in Plainville. The property will be reconfigured into a multi-use site and will eventually house some of the hospital’s current business and administrative offices.&nbsp;Describing the reasoning behind the acquisition, AJ Thomas, CEO of RCH explained, “We had the opportunity to purchase a beautiful&nbsp;building at a bank auction for a fraction of the cost it would take to build such a structure on the hospital campus.&nbsp;The hospital continues to grow and expand services and space is a premium. Just in the past year we added 10 full-time employees.”&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Thomas, the initial changes to the building will enable RCH to provide a safe living space for RCH staff if they have family members in quarantine who have tested positive for the coronavirus. Eventually these living spaces will house medical students who train at RCH as well as visiting physicians.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since opening its new facility north of Plainville in 2008, RCH has expanded its role not only within the county, but also throughout northwest Kansas, drawing many to Rooks County for services. A new MRI/Nuclear Medicine suite opened in 2015 followed by a new Rehabilitation Center completed last November. In the last 15 years, RCH has added nearly 50 full-time employees to the payroll.This is the second off-campus purchase for the hospital. In 2014 RCH purchased the JJ’s Auto lot on the north side of the intersection of Hwy. 183 and Hwy. 18. &nbsp;The hospital remodeled the property into a multi-use space. According to Thomas the property is offered rent-free for county EMS and EMT training, as well as economic development meetings. It also houses the vans for the Rooks County Transportation System while the French Press coffee house leases the smaller building.The funds to enable the purchase of the downtown property came from a hospital-specific program created by the federal CARES Act, which is administered by the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).While nearly 1 million dollars from a different federal program were made available to Rooks County some months ago, RCH declined to request any portion of those funds in favor of that money flowing through to schools, nursing home facilities and other county entities for their response to COVID-19.Although RCH is considered tax exempt, the hospital did not seek a tax exemption on its first acquisition and, according to Thomas, they do not intend to seek an exemption for its latest purchase. RCH pays approximately $5,300 a year in property tax on the JJ’s lot and expects to pay about $10,000 a year in tax on the new site.

Rooks County Health Center buys former Dessin Fournir building

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

After advanced voting in Ellis County was delayed
earlier this week due to an error in wording on the general election ballot, advanced voting in will begin Thursday morning.

Ellis County Clerk Donna Maskus said while the updated
ballots have added and changed some verbiage, the position of each race remains
in the same location and that means that the nearly 4,000 advanced ballots that
were sent out will be counted.

“I want to assure the voters that everything will be
tabulated correctly,” said Maskus. “All ballots will be ran through the DS-200
election equipment, and it will be able to tally everything.”

Maskus said that anyone who received the advanced ballot
containing the error can an updated ballot but they have to return the old
ballot.

“We will take it, and we’re happy to reissue a new one,”
Maskus said. “I cannot give more than one ballot to a voter.”

Advanced voting will begin at 7 a.m. Thursday and continue
until 5 p.m. each day up until the day before the election. Advanced voting is
open from 7 a.m. to noon on Nov. 2.

The administrative office at 718 Main in Hays will also
be open the next two Saturdays — Oct. 24 and Oct. 31 — will be open from 8 a.m.
to noon.

Maskus said the county reordered 15,000 ballots at a cost of
$3,900. 

She added that her office should have detected the errors
before the ballot was sent out.

“It should have been caught,” Maskus said. “I sincerely apologize
that we did have that error.”

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostAfter advanced voting in Ellis County was delayed
earlier this week due to an error in wording on the general election ballot, advanced voting in will begin Thursday morning.Ellis County Clerk Donna Maskus said while the updated
ballots have added and changed some verbiage, the position of each race remains
in the same location and that means that the nearly 4,000 advanced ballots that
were sent out will be counted.“I want to assure the voters that everything will be
tabulated correctly,” said Maskus. “All ballots will be ran through the DS-200
election equipment, and it will be able to tally everything.”Maskus said that anyone who received the advanced ballot
containing the error can an updated ballot but they have to return the old
ballot.“We will take it, and we’re happy to reissue a new one,”
Maskus said. “I cannot give more than one ballot to a voter.”Advanced voting will begin at 7 a.m. Thursday and continue
until 5 p.m. each day up until the day before the election. Advanced voting is
open from 7 a.m. to noon on Nov. 2.The administrative office at 718 Main in Hays will also
be open the next two Saturdays — Oct. 24 and Oct. 31 — will be open from 8 a.m.
to noon.Maskus said the county reordered 15,000 ballots at a cost of
$3,900. She added that her office should have detected the errors
before the ballot was sent out.“It should have been caught,” Maskus said. “I sincerely apologize
that we did have that error.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603288179170.jpeg" alt="Updated Ellis Co. ballot" />
 <figcaption>Updated Ellis Co. ballot</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis Co. advanced voting set to start following ballot errors

HAYS – For the first time since early March, the Fort Hays State
football team returned to the practice field Tuesday afternoon. 

The Tigers were barely into their spring practice schedule when
it was halted by the COVID-19 shutdown. After the season was canceled late this summer, the team has had an off-season approach with weights and conditioning along with position
group practice but Tuesday marked the first time the entire team was on the field
together.

“It is one of the best feelings” said FHSU head coach Chris
Brown. “It’s still kind of hard with all of the protocols you have to follow
with the social distancing, the masks and all of those things making sure our
kids stay healthy.”

“Great feeling being back out here. It was fun, it was
enjoyable.” Brown added. “One of the best parts of my day is being out here on
the field with these kids and seeing them compete and get after it.”

Brown says they plan to hold a couple of intra-squad
scrimmages which will be open to fans before concluding their fall workouts
before Thanksgiving.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603276111337.jpeg" alt="The Fort Hays State football team returned to the practice field Tuesday. (Courtesy FHSU football)" />
 <figcaption>The Fort Hays State football team returned to the practice field Tuesday. (Courtesy FHSU football)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS – For the first time since early March, the Fort Hays State
football team returned to the practice field Tuesday afternoon. The Tigers were barely into their spring practice schedule when
it was halted by the COVID-19 shutdown. After the season was canceled late this summer, the team has had an off-season approach with weights and conditioning along with position
group practice but Tuesday marked the first time the entire team was on the field
together.“It is one of the best feelings” said FHSU head coach Chris
Brown. “It’s still kind of hard with all of the protocols you have to follow
with the social distancing, the masks and all of those things making sure our
kids stay healthy.”“Great feeling being back out here. It was fun, it was
enjoyable.” Brown added. “One of the best parts of my day is being out here on
the field with these kids and seeing them compete and get after it.”<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/915130018&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-brown-102020" title="Chris Brown 102020" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown 102020</a></div></div>Brown says they plan to hold a couple of intra-squad
scrimmages which will be open to fans before concluding their fall workouts
before Thanksgiving.

🏈 FHSU returns to the practice field Tuesday

It’s been a big year for Hays cosmetologist and certified massage
therapist Renèe Cline. 

After working for seven years in Hays as a massage
therapist, this year she added onto her skills, graduating from the Hays Academy
of Hair Design in March and opening her own business shortly after.

"I just finished my seventh year in massage therapy this
year, and I wanted to open up my own little place,” Cline said. 

So she opened Lux Massage &amp; Aesthetics, 1220 E. 27th, inside Riverside Chiropractic and celebrated a grand opening in May.

In the location, she offers services from both aspects of her
training and experience.

“I am able to combine the massage that I have already done
with the esthetic services that I can do now,” she said.

Being able to offer both helps Cline provide
a better service.

“My business is about providing services for my guests,” she
said. 

Another bonus, she said, is being inside a chiropractic office.

“It’s nice being in a chiropractic office because full
massage and chiropractic, they go hand in hand,” Cline said. “So it’s really
nice to be able to get a massage and then have your adjustment.”

Included in the variety of services she offers are massage, facials,
peels, lash extensions, makeup services and full body waxing.

She is certified in massage therapy and has certifications
with related tools like cupping, hot stones, facial cupping and reflexology.

She completed those certifications right here in Hays, while
learning the business on the job.

“I love it. There are definitely tests and stuff that I have
taken, but it’s a lot of manual labor,” Cline said. “You definitely have to
know the human body and know what you are doing or you can make it worse.”

Despite opening this business in the midst of the pandemic,
so far she said business has good.

&nbsp;“I am very of
thankful, and I hope it keeps going well,’ Cline said.

And she is already looking forward to a day in the future
she can expand into a full-service spa with even more esthetic and massage
services available.

For more about the business or to book an appointment, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.luxmassageaesthetics.com">Luxmassageaestics.com</a>. More can also be seen on the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/luxmassageandaesthetics"> Lux Massage &amp; Aesthetics
facebook page.</a>

They are open Mondays from &nbsp;9 a.m. to 6 p.m., &nbsp;Tuesdays from &nbsp;9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays
from noon until 8 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and every other Saturday
from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602973556745.jpeg" alt="Renèe Cline / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Renèe Cline / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIt’s been a big year for Hays cosmetologist and certified massage
therapist Renèe Cline. After working for seven years in Hays as a massage
therapist, this year she added onto her skills, graduating from the Hays Academy
of Hair Design in March and opening her own business shortly after."I just finished my seventh year in massage therapy this
year, and I wanted to open up my own little place,” Cline said. So she opened Lux Massage &amp; Aesthetics, 1220 E. 27th, inside Riverside Chiropractic and celebrated a grand opening in May.In the location, she offers services from both aspects of her
training and experience.“I am able to combine the massage that I have already done
with the esthetic services that I can do now,” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602973591801.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Being able to offer both helps Cline provide
a better service.“My business is about providing services for my guests,” she
said. Another bonus, she said, is being inside a chiropractic office.“It’s nice being in a chiropractic office because full
massage and chiropractic, they go hand in hand,” Cline said. “So it’s really
nice to be able to get a massage and then have your adjustment.”Included in the variety of services she offers are massage, facials,
peels, lash extensions, makeup services and full body waxing.She is certified in massage therapy and has certifications
with related tools like cupping, hot stones, facial cupping and reflexology.She completed those certifications right here in Hays, while
learning the business on the job.“I love it. There are definitely tests and stuff that I have
taken, but it’s a lot of manual labor,” Cline said. “You definitely have to
know the human body and know what you are doing or you can make it worse.”Despite opening this business in the midst of the pandemic,
so far she said business has good.&nbsp;“I am very of
thankful, and I hope it keeps going well,’ Cline said.And she is already looking forward to a day in the future
she can expand into a full-service spa with even more esthetic and massage
services available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602973637667.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>For more about the business or to book an appointment, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.luxmassageaesthetics.com">Luxmassageaestics.com</a>. More can also be seen on the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/luxmassageandaesthetics"> Lux Massage &amp; Aesthetics
facebook page.</a>They are open Mondays from &nbsp;9 a.m. to 6 p.m., &nbsp;Tuesdays from &nbsp;9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays
from noon until 8 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and every other Saturday
from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602978840004.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays massage therapist strikes out on her own with new business

The Fort Hays State University American Democracy Project provides numerous civic and political engagement activities that challenge and encourage students, faculty, staff, and community members to find their place and make a difference. FHSU ADP values the importance of presenting unbiased information to students, faculty, staff, and community members.

ADP’s “Let’s Civil Discourse” event is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and others to address and debate issues in a civil manner. It will also be a place where proper decorum as well as common ground building will happen and will be reminded of throughout the entirety of the session.

The event will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27. 

It will be an online Zoom event. Register for the event here:&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMqdO6qqTwuHNRjb8_1RPWNTqbMUoEZZ4tU">https://fhsu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMqdO6qqTwuHNRjb8_1RPWNTqbMUoEZZ4tU </a>

Questions should be directed to Brad DeMers (adp@fhsu.edu).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602535081528.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Fort Hays State University American Democracy Project provides numerous civic and political engagement activities that challenge and encourage students, faculty, staff, and community members to find their place and make a difference. FHSU ADP values the importance of presenting unbiased information to students, faculty, staff, and community members.ADP’s “Let’s Civil Discourse” event is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and others to address and debate issues in a civil manner. It will also be a place where proper decorum as well as common ground building will happen and will be reminded of throughout the entirety of the session.The event will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27. It will be an online Zoom event. Register for the event here:&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMqdO6qqTwuHNRjb8_1RPWNTqbMUoEZZ4tU">https://fhsu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMqdO6qqTwuHNRjb8_1RPWNTqbMUoEZZ4tU </a>Questions should be directed to Brad DeMers (adp@fhsu.edu).— Submitted

FHSU ADP to host civil discourse event October 27

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

There’s an old cliché that’s become something of an inside joke among people who follow politics a little too closely, me included.

“It all comes down to turnout.” On the surface, it’s a meaningless tautology, similar to saying the winner of a football game will be the team with the most points.

Dig a little deeper and it captures something reporters know all too well. The number of people voting doesn’t determine winners, rather it’s the types of voters who cast their ballots. Just as importantly, it also includes those who don’t bother to show up. Small shifts in who goes to the polls and who stays home can have lasting impacts.

We’re now less than two weeks away from the 2020 election, and turnout is projected to set records. Good campaigns will lose. Bad ones will win. Weak candidates will surprise strong ones. Ballot measures will succeed or fail. And just like every election you get to play a role in deciding the outcome.

For anyone engaged in agriculture, there’s a lot on the line in this election. Issues in federal races range from trade and taxes to the next Farm Bill and even Endangered Species Act reforms. Taxes, water issues and reapportionment will be big items on the docket in Topeka.

While these issues are near and dear to the hearts (and wallets) of farmers and ranchers, they’re probably not on the list of matters suburban and urban voters are using to make their voting decisions. There’s nothing wrong with that. People living in populated areas have their own issues, their own values.

One need look no further than 2018 to see how a rural-urban divide works when Laura Kelly won the gubernatorial race. She garnered a majority of votes in just six counties and a plurality in three others.

More than 40 percent of registered voters didn’t pull a lever in that election. Boosting turnout just a percentage point or two in the 96 other counties would have easily changed the results of the election. Small shifts would have made a big difference.

The same is going to be true on Nov. 4. It will be easy to look back at who voted, and who didn’t, and identify races that could have gone differently.

Voting is the first step, but there’s more farmers and ranchers can do to amplify their voices, like boosting turnout. Make those personal phone calls, have those in-person conversations and post to social media. Talk with your friends and neighbors. Talk with your cousins in Kansas City or landlord in Wichita. Talk with anyone else who shares your values and make sure they’ll cast a ballot this year.

Like every other election, this one will come down to turnout. Be sure you’re included in the outcome. Your voice and your values are on the ballot.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauThere’s an old cliché that’s become something of an inside joke among people who follow politics a little too closely, me included.“It all comes down to turnout.” On the surface, it’s a meaningless tautology, similar to saying the winner of a football game will be the team with the most points.Dig a little deeper and it captures something reporters know all too well. The number of people voting doesn’t determine winners, rather it’s the types of voters who cast their ballots. Just as importantly, it also includes those who don’t bother to show up. Small shifts in who goes to the polls and who stays home can have lasting impacts.We’re now less than two weeks away from the 2020 election, and turnout is projected to set records. Good campaigns will lose. Bad ones will win. Weak candidates will surprise strong ones. Ballot measures will succeed or fail. And just like every election you get to play a role in deciding the outcome.For anyone engaged in agriculture, there’s a lot on the line in this election. Issues in federal races range from trade and taxes to the next Farm Bill and even Endangered Species Act reforms. Taxes, water issues and reapportionment will be big items on the docket in Topeka.While these issues are near and dear to the hearts (and wallets) of farmers and ranchers, they’re probably not on the list of matters suburban and urban voters are using to make their voting decisions. There’s nothing wrong with that. People living in populated areas have their own issues, their own values.One need look no further than 2018 to see how a rural-urban divide works when Laura Kelly won the gubernatorial race. She garnered a majority of votes in just six counties and a plurality in three others.More than 40 percent of registered voters didn’t pull a lever in that election. Boosting turnout just a percentage point or two in the 96 other counties would have easily changed the results of the election. Small shifts would have made a big difference.The same is going to be true on Nov. 4. It will be easy to look back at who voted, and who didn’t, and identify races that could have gone differently.Voting is the first step, but there’s more farmers and ranchers can do to amplify their voices, like boosting turnout. Make those personal phone calls, have those in-person conversations and post to social media. Talk with your friends and neighbors. Talk with your cousins in Kansas City or landlord in Wichita. Talk with anyone else who shares your values and make sure they’ll cast a ballot this year.Like every other election, this one will come down to turnout. Be sure you’re included in the outcome. Your voice and your values are on the ballot."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Down to turnout

Three-day weather outlook

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Weeds can spread in a variety of ways, including on farm equipment. As you move harvest equipment from field to field, be aware of the potential to spread weed seed – especially if uncontrolled weeds are known or suspected to be herbicide resistant. Some steps that can be taken to prevent the spreading weeds when moving harvest equipment from one field to another are listed below.

&nbsp;It is very difficult to completely remove weed seeds from harvest equipment. However, taking a few minutes to reduce the number of seeds on your harvest equipment may ultimately save time, and money in the future.

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430, if after hours leave a message.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603130102776.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWeeds can spread in a variety of ways, including on farm equipment. As you move harvest equipment from field to field, be aware of the potential to spread weed seed – especially if uncontrolled weeds are known or suspected to be herbicide resistant. Some steps that can be taken to prevent the spreading weeds when moving harvest equipment from one field to another are listed below.<ul>
 <li>Clean purchased used equipment (new-to-you) so someone else’s weeds are not introduced to your farm.</li><li>If possible, harvest fields with excellent weed control first.</li><li>Harvest fields where weeds are the worst or might be herbicide resistant last.</li><li>Harvest around areas with extremely dense weed populations.</li><li>Slow the combine to ‘self clean’ between fields:&nbsp;</li><li>run the unloading auger empty for a minute or two</li><li>open grain elevator doors, rock tramp, and unloading auger sump then run the separator with maximum air flow and suction</li><li>Use an air compressor to remove material remaining in rock trap and grain auger and from the head, feeder house, and straw spreader</li><li>Take half a day to do a deeper cleaning when possible</li><li>Check fall-tillage equipment between fields</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;It is very difficult to completely remove weed seeds from harvest equipment. However, taking a few minutes to reduce the number of seeds on your harvest equipment may ultimately save time, and money in the future.Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430, if after hours leave a message.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Stop spreading weed seed during harvest

The title of a recent Hutchinson News column by Amanda Miller left me scratching my head; until I read it through and realized how spot-on it was pertaining to my time in the outdoors.

The article was entitled” The Power of Low Expectations” and caught me off-guard, because Amanda, as seen through her writing style, seems to be quite bubbly and cheerful. The gist of the article however, was that we often set our selves up for what we see as constant failure, or we miss any enjoyment in the task at hand because we set our expectations unreasonably high.

When I was a kid, an older coworker always used to say “If all else fails, lower your expectations.” Although witty, I disregarded most of what he told me, because this was a man that said he went home each night and tossed his hat in the backdoor; if the hat stayed in, he too went inside, but if it came flying back out, he went away and tried again later. Today, however I can see the value in at least monitoring our expectations as we go.&nbsp;

My wife Joyce is usually the one who maintains the better outlook when we go afield. Listening to the great horned owl call near our deer blind, or watching a group of does and fawns slip silently across the waterway in front of us, or hanging out the open blind window to watch a colorful songbird below as it flits from branch-to-branch all make her just as happy as harvesting a nice buck. Reading a book when the fish aren’t biting brings her just as much joy as if the fish were throwing themselves into the boat. Me, on the other hand, not-so-much.

In my defense, I’m a goal-oriented creature so failing to attain a goal drives me mad. Also, according to my wife, I often shift into “conquer mode” where all that matters is “conquering” what I/we are there to do. While these are not bad qualities for life, they are lousy road-blocks to enjoying the outdoors. When trapping, my expectations are full traps,( after all, isn’t that the point) so when my traps aren’t catching predators, I beat myself up and spend all my time trying to diagnose what I’m doing wrong, when I should stop and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation around me and the beautiful, luxurious fur of the ones I do catch. When we have hunted deer for a couple days and have not yet seen or harvested our annual venison, ( that’s why we’re there isn’t it) I begin to spend my time analyzing every detail to find the flaws in our plan, when I should be hanging out the open blind window to watch the songbird, or listening for the owl. When it has been a spell without a fish biting, I get antsy and am ready to leave (after all we are there to catch fish) when I should be marveling that God created something that breathes under water and lives in huge basins of water called lakes. &nbsp;

Maybe I don’t need to lower my expectations as much as alter them to allow for time to appreciate God’s Creation around me. In her column, Amanda goes on to say, “Whether they be unreasonable or maybe even quite reasonable, not all expectations should be grasped too firmly; my contentment should be based on something much firmer than whatever I planned on happening.” Hmmm, good advice as we continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>The title of a recent Hutchinson News column by Amanda Miller left me scratching my head; until I read it through and realized how spot-on it was pertaining to my time in the outdoors.The article was entitled” The Power of Low Expectations” and caught me off-guard, because Amanda, as seen through her writing style, seems to be quite bubbly and cheerful. The gist of the article however, was that we often set our selves up for what we see as constant failure, or we miss any enjoyment in the task at hand because we set our expectations unreasonably high.When I was a kid, an older coworker always used to say “If all else fails, lower your expectations.” Although witty, I disregarded most of what he told me, because this was a man that said he went home each night and tossed his hat in the backdoor; if the hat stayed in, he too went inside, but if it came flying back out, he went away and tried again later. Today, however I can see the value in at least monitoring our expectations as we go.&nbsp;My wife Joyce is usually the one who maintains the better outlook when we go afield. Listening to the great horned owl call near our deer blind, or watching a group of does and fawns slip silently across the waterway in front of us, or hanging out the open blind window to watch a colorful songbird below as it flits from branch-to-branch all make her just as happy as harvesting a nice buck. Reading a book when the fish aren’t biting brings her just as much joy as if the fish were throwing themselves into the boat. Me, on the other hand, not-so-much.In my defense, I’m a goal-oriented creature so failing to attain a goal drives me mad. Also, according to my wife, I often shift into “conquer mode” where all that matters is “conquering” what I/we are there to do. While these are not bad qualities for life, they are lousy road-blocks to enjoying the outdoors. When trapping, my expectations are full traps,( after all, isn’t that the point) so when my traps aren’t catching predators, I beat myself up and spend all my time trying to diagnose what I’m doing wrong, when I should stop and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation around me and the beautiful, luxurious fur of the ones I do catch. When we have hunted deer for a couple days and have not yet seen or harvested our annual venison, ( that’s why we’re there isn’t it) I begin to spend my time analyzing every detail to find the flaws in our plan, when I should be hanging out the open blind window to watch the songbird, or listening for the owl. When it has been a spell without a fish biting, I get antsy and am ready to leave (after all we are there to catch fish) when I should be marveling that God created something that breathes under water and lives in huge basins of water called lakes. &nbsp;Maybe I don’t need to lower my expectations as much as alter them to allow for time to appreciate God’s Creation around me. In her column, Amanda goes on to say, “Whether they be unreasonable or maybe even quite reasonable, not all expectations should be grasped too firmly; my contentment should be based on something much firmer than whatever I planned on happening.” Hmmm, good advice as we continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kan.: If all else fails, lower your expectations?

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/20/norton-facility-hosts-biggest-covid-19-hotspot-in-kansas-prison-system/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The largest 
COVID-19 outbreak in a Kansas Department of Corrections facility is in 
Norton where at least 135 inmates and 11 staff members recently tested 
positive for the virus, officials said Tuesday.

Coronavirus has been 
detected in nearly 3,000 inmates within Kansas’ state prison system this
 year, but the surge at Norton Correctional <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6271f721-0685-41e0-bf8e-36bbded8a69d">Facility corresponded with 
disclosure of the hotspot at Andbe Home in Norton where 10 residents of 
the nursing home have died. All 52 other residents of Andbe Home testing
 positive for COVID-19 have been quarantined there with exception of one
 hospitalized patient, officials said.</a>

“The community infected 
the facility,” said Randy Bowman, a spokesman for the state Department 
of Corrections. “It spreads in the facility once it’s in.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e4299112-0fe4-40da-ac7e-a0c62f0df35b">RELATED:&nbsp;Norton the largest per capita outbreak in U.S.</a>

Data collected by Johns 
Hopkins University showed Norton County had the largest number of new 
cases per 100,000 residents in the United States during the two-week 
period ending Sunday.

Kansas Department of 
Health and Environment said Monday that Norton County had 340 cases of 
COVID-19, but that likely didn’t include all positive tests emerging 
from the nursing home. Overall in Kansas, KDHE has documented 872 
deaths, 3,421 hospitalizations and 72,968 cases of COVID-19.

The total of 135 cases 
among inmates at the 850-bed prison in Norton surpassed the 103 cases 
reported at Hutchinson Correctional Facility and the 80 cases at 
Ellsworth Correctional Facility. Lansing Correctional Facility has been a
 magnet for coronavirus with 974 known inmate cases.

Meanwhile, the Department 
of Corrections said a 60-year-old inmate at the Ellsworth prison died 
Monday after testing positive Sept. 26. The Black man was serving a life
 sentence out of Wyandotte County. After testing positive, he was 
transferred to the COVID-19 management unit at Lansing Correctional 
Facility before moved several days later to a hospital.

Since March, six Kansas 
prison inmates and three of the state’s corrections employees have died 
of coronavirus. There have been four inmate fatalities at Lansing and 
one death at Larned Correctional Facility. In terms of prison staff, two
 deaths occurred among workers at Lansing and one at Topeka Correctional
 Facility.

The state corrections 
department reported that as of Oct. 14 there were 422 inmates and 43 
employees with cases of COVID-19. During the pandemic, testing has 
identified 1,955 inmate and 344 staff cases of infection by the 
coronavirus.

Jeff Zmuda, secretary at 
the Department of Corrections, said in a letter to inmates and family 
members that spread of the virus in Kansas communities and inside prison
 facilities would preclude a prompt return to regular visition 
opportunites.

“We continue to explore 
options for visitation,” Zmuda said. “Some states have reopened 
visitation, a smaller number have also closed again and others have not.
 Each of which provide examples for us.”

He said future visitation 
policy at Kansas prisons would likely include a prohibition on physical 
contact. Plexiglass barriers, distance limits among participants and 
screening of all people taking part in the visits would be combined with
 launch of an online advance scheduling process and a reduction in the 
number of allowable visits each day, he said.

“Given the prevalence of 
the virus in our communities and in our facilities today I cannot 
estimate when we could implement a new visitation process,” the 
secretary said.

Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603229175762.png" alt="Jeff Zmuda, Kansas corrections secretary, says ongoing spread COVID-19 in state prison system and communities prevents resumption of visitation privileges. In terms of active COVID-19 cases, there are more than 400 among inmates and at least 40 among prison staff. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Zmuda, Kansas corrections secretary, says ongoing spread COVID-19 in state prison system and communities prevents resumption of visitation privileges. In terms of active COVID-19 cases, there are more than 400 among inmates and at least 40 among prison staff. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/20/norton-facility-hosts-biggest-covid-19-hotspot-in-kansas-prison-system/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The largest 
COVID-19 outbreak in a Kansas Department of Corrections facility is in 
Norton where at least 135 inmates and 11 staff members recently tested 
positive for the virus, officials said Tuesday.Coronavirus has been 
detected in nearly 3,000 inmates within Kansas’ state prison system this
 year, but the surge at Norton Correctional <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6271f721-0685-41e0-bf8e-36bbded8a69d">Facility corresponded with 
disclosure of the hotspot at Andbe Home in Norton where 10 residents of 
the nursing home have died. All 52 other residents of Andbe Home testing
 positive for COVID-19 have been quarantined there with exception of one
 hospitalized patient, officials said.</a>“The community infected 
the facility,” said Randy Bowman, a spokesman for the state Department 
of Corrections. “It spreads in the facility once it’s in.”<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e4299112-0fe4-40da-ac7e-a0c62f0df35b">RELATED:&nbsp;Norton the largest per capita outbreak in U.S.</a>Data collected by Johns 
Hopkins University showed Norton County had the largest number of new 
cases per 100,000 residents in the United States during the two-week 
period ending Sunday.Kansas Department of 
Health and Environment said Monday that Norton County had 340 cases of 
COVID-19, but that likely didn’t include all positive tests emerging 
from the nursing home. Overall in Kansas, KDHE has documented 872 
deaths, 3,421 hospitalizations and 72,968 cases of COVID-19.The total of 135 cases 
among inmates at the 850-bed prison in Norton surpassed the 103 cases 
reported at Hutchinson Correctional Facility and the 80 cases at 
Ellsworth Correctional Facility. Lansing Correctional Facility has been a
 magnet for coronavirus with 974 known inmate cases.Meanwhile, the Department 
of Corrections said a 60-year-old inmate at the Ellsworth prison died 
Monday after testing positive Sept. 26. The Black man was serving a life
 sentence out of Wyandotte County. After testing positive, he was 
transferred to the COVID-19 management unit at Lansing Correctional 
Facility before moved several days later to a hospital.Since March, six Kansas 
prison inmates and three of the state’s corrections employees have died 
of coronavirus. There have been four inmate fatalities at Lansing and 
one death at Larned Correctional Facility. In terms of prison staff, two
 deaths occurred among workers at Lansing and one at Topeka Correctional
 Facility.The state corrections 
department reported that as of Oct. 14 there were 422 inmates and 43 
employees with cases of COVID-19. During the pandemic, testing has 
identified 1,955 inmate and 344 staff cases of infection by the 
coronavirus.Jeff Zmuda, secretary at 
the Department of Corrections, said in a letter to inmates and family 
members that spread of the virus in Kansas communities and inside prison
 facilities would preclude a prompt return to regular visition 
opportunites.“We continue to explore 
options for visitation,” Zmuda said. “Some states have reopened 
visitation, a smaller number have also closed again and others have not.
 Each of which provide examples for us.”He said future visitation 
policy at Kansas prisons would likely include a prohibition on physical 
contact. Plexiglass barriers, distance limits among participants and 
screening of all people taking part in the visits would be combined with
 launch of an online advance scheduling process and a reduction in the 
number of allowable visits each day, he said.“Given the prevalence of 
the virus in our communities and in our facilities today I cannot 
estimate when we could implement a new visitation process,” the 
secretary said.Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;

Norton facility biggest COVID-19 hotspot in Kan. prison system

In a message to parents Tuesday, Hays High School announced changes to seating policies at Fort Hays State University's Lewis Field Stadium.

Beginning Friday, the stadium will have restricted seating to every other row. The change coincides with the 50-percent occupancy limits on both sides of the stadium.

The ends of each row on the home side of the stadium will be tied off, and, if necessary, the visitor's side will as well.

"Wearing masks at Lewis Field is our expectation.&nbsp;Please help keep yourself and those around you healthy," HHS Principal Martin Straub said in the message. "We want to keep our schools open to all students and teachers … with your help, we can do this!"

Hays is scheduled to host Kapaun at 7 p.m. Friday at Lewis Field Stadium.

In a message to parents Tuesday, Hays High School announced changes to seating policies at Fort Hays State University's Lewis Field Stadium.Beginning Friday, the stadium will have restricted seating to every other row. The change coincides with the 50-percent occupancy limits on both sides of the stadium.The ends of each row on the home side of the stadium will be tied off, and, if necessary, the visitor's side will as well."Wearing masks at Lewis Field is our expectation.&nbsp;Please help keep yourself and those around you healthy," HHS Principal Martin Straub said in the message. "We want to keep our schools open to all students and teachers … with your help, we can do this!"Hays is scheduled to host Kapaun at 7 p.m. Friday at Lewis Field Stadium.

Hays High announces changes to Lewis Field seating policies

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

*This episode of the Post Podcast originally aired on March 21, 2020.

<div><iframe title="Stay fit outside of the gym with these tips" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/abchp-dd3dfe?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>*This episode of the Post Podcast originally aired on March 21, 2020.

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay fit outside of the gym with these tips

The above map shows areas completed during the first day - Oct. 19 - of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9fb99f65-ae28-40a2-850b-1ef924d16447">2020 Alley Cleanup</a>.

City crews are first collecting unwanted items at curbside refuse collection areas and then will move to alleys.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603209136810.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe above map shows areas completed during the first day - Oct. 19 - of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9fb99f65-ae28-40a2-850b-1ef924d16447">2020 Alley Cleanup</a>.City crews are first collecting unwanted items at curbside refuse collection areas and then will move to alleys.&nbsp;

Annual Alley Cleanup is underway

By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County Review

The large-scale COVID-19 outbreak taking place in Norton took a horrific turn Monday night as it came to light all 62 aged residents of Andbe Home there have contracted the disease, along with multiple staff members, and that 10 of them have died as of Monday night.

As of 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, this cluster had still not been reported by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment but the&nbsp;Review&nbsp;has been able to learn the outlines of what is unfolding there through multiple sources in the community.

Early Monday morning, the Phillips County Review/Main Street Media and Hays Post broke the story of the tragedy underway in Norton with their reporting on a mass outbreak at Norton Correctional Facility which has infected over 130 people.

Most significantly, over the past 10 days, fully five percent of the population of Norton has been diagnosed with&nbsp;COVID-19, making it the largest per capita outbreak in the United States.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594071502884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County ReviewThe large-scale COVID-19 outbreak taking place in Norton took a horrific turn Monday night as it came to light all 62 aged residents of Andbe Home there have contracted the disease, along with multiple staff members, and that 10 of them have died as of Monday night.As of 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, this cluster had still not been reported by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment but the&nbsp;Review&nbsp;has been able to learn the outlines of what is unfolding there through multiple sources in the community.Early Monday morning, the Phillips County Review/Main Street Media and Hays Post broke the story of the tragedy underway in Norton with their reporting on a mass outbreak at Norton Correctional Facility which has infected over 130 people.Most significantly, over the past 10 days, fully five percent of the population of Norton has been diagnosed with&nbsp;COVID-19, making it the largest per capita outbreak in the United States.

REVIEW: Norton the largest per capita outbreak in U.S.

Curtis and his family at D&amp;L Body Shop are seeking a qualified employee to join their team. Experience or schooling with certifications is preferred. Job responsibilities include all aspect of collision repair and paint refinishing. Curt and the team treat you like family and offer a clean work environment with an air conditioned shop and hours Monday- Thursday 7am to 5pm with an hour lunch break and Friday’s off at noon.

Competitive wages based on experience and a full range of benefits. Including: paid holidays, paid vacation, retirement benefits, AFLAC and fully paid dental and health insurance.

To apply stop by 2120 East 8th Street or call 785-628-3899.

Come join a D&amp;L Body Shop’s work family!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603203753854.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Curtis and his family at D&amp;L Body Shop are seeking a qualified employee to join their team. Experience or schooling with certifications is preferred. Job responsibilities include all aspect of collision repair and paint refinishing. Curt and the team treat you like family and offer a clean work environment with an air conditioned shop and hours Monday- Thursday 7am to 5pm with an hour lunch break and Friday’s off at noon.Competitive wages based on experience and a full range of benefits. Including: paid holidays, paid vacation, retirement benefits, AFLAC and fully paid dental and health insurance.To apply stop by 2120 East 8th Street or call 785-628-3899.Come join a D&amp;L Body Shop’s work family!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603203753854.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

10 residents dead amid virus outbreak at NW Kan. nursing home

Weekly reports show an increase in drilling activity across the country and across Kansas. Baker Hughes reports an increase in the active drilling rig count for Oct. 16. There are 282 active rigs, an increase of 12 oil rigs over the week before. The count in Texas was up seven rigs. Utah was up three and Oklahoma gained two. Rig Counts in Kansas were up 44%. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports five active rigs in eastern Kansas, up three for the week, and eight west of Wichita, which is up one. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Ellis and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators approved twenty new drilling permits last week, eight of them east of Wichita and 12 in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports four newly-completed wells across the state, 680 so far this year. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $31.25 per barrel. That's a half dollar more than a week ago and more than two dollars higher than at the first of the month. Kansas crude-oil production has plummeted alongside the national numbers because of the pandemic-related price plunge. The Kansas Geological Survey reports statewide output through June averaged 76,000 barrels per day (bpd). That's down 16,000 bpd, or about 17%, compared to the same period last year. Barton, Ellis and Russell counties all showed declines through the first half of the year of more than 17%, but output in Stafford County was up more than four percent from the first-half total last year. Operators in Barton County pumped 3,718 bpd through the end of June. Ellis County produced 5727 bpd. Output in Russell County was 3,408 bpd, and Stafford County notched 2,511 bpd. The Energy Information Administration said domestic crude inventories dropped by nearly four million barrels last week, but remain about 11% above the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude-oil production totals declined half a million barrels per day last week. Current U.S. output is 10.45 million [["ten point four five million"]] barrels per day, That's down more than two million barrels per day from a year ago, a decline of about 17%. The government said U.S. crude imports averaged 5.3 million barrels per day last week, down nearly half a million from the week before. The four-week average is down more than 15% from a year ago. Most motorists are seeing stability at the gas pump. The auto club AAA says weekly statewide averages held steady in 45 of the 50 states. At $2.17 a gallon, the national average is down a penny from a month ago, while the average in Kansas is four cents lower than last month at $1.94 per gallon.&nbsp; You can find it for $1.92 at several stations in Hays, but it's up to $1.99 in Great Bend. Oil-by-rail traffic remains nearly 20% behind last year even as grain shipments help bring total rail traffic out of its long downturn. Grain shipments are up 31% year-over-year, while total traffic is up two percent. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,259 tanker cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products during the week ending October 10, down 169 cars from the week before.&nbsp; August crude oil production in the nation's second biggest producing state increased in August, jumping 120,000 barrels per day over the final July totals. The Department of Mineral Resources reports total output in North Dakota increased to more than 36 million barrels, or 1.16 million [["one point one six million"]] barrels per day. That's down nearly half a million barrels per day from the all-time high reached last November. The downturn in North Dakota production has brought the state within its anti-flaring goals, which had been out of reach a year ago. Regulators said operators there were able to capture 92% of the natural gas produced by its oil wells in August. That's well within the state's goals which will expand to 91% next month. Goldman Sachs offers a surprising perspective on the presidential election. According to the Houston Chronicle, a research note released Sunday says a Blue Wave in the election would be a positive catalyst for the oil patch. The note says tougher regulations on hydraulic fracturing would likely reduce production, and thus raise prices. Newspapers across Texas, including the Chronicle, have been documenting some dramatic steps being taken in the Texas oil patch to hedge against a win by Democrats. The Russian oil pipeline monopoly and that country's biggest producer have reached a settlement with the French oil firm Total over dirty crude supplies. Upwards of 35 million barrels of crude contaminated with organic chlorides were sent to a German refinery last year. The amount of the settlement was not announced.&nbsp; Libya took a major step toward reviving its battered oil industry by reopening its biggest field. Libya’s state energy company lifted restrictions and expects upwards of 300,000 barrels per day by next week, nearly doubling Libya's output. The reopening follows a truce in Libya’s long-running civil war that’s already led to many oil fields and ports in the east starting up after an almost total shutdown since January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARWeekly reports show an increase in drilling activity across the country and across Kansas. Baker Hughes reports an increase in the active drilling rig count for Oct. 16. There are 282 active rigs, an increase of 12 oil rigs over the week before. The count in Texas was up seven rigs. Utah was up three and Oklahoma gained two. Rig Counts in Kansas were up 44%. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports five active rigs in eastern Kansas, up three for the week, and eight west of Wichita, which is up one. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Ellis and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators approved twenty new drilling permits last week, eight of them east of Wichita and 12 in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports four newly-completed wells across the state, 680 so far this year. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $31.25 per barrel. That's a half dollar more than a week ago and more than two dollars higher than at the first of the month. Kansas crude-oil production has plummeted alongside the national numbers because of the pandemic-related price plunge. The Kansas Geological Survey reports statewide output through June averaged 76,000 barrels per day (bpd). That's down 16,000 bpd, or about 17%, compared to the same period last year. Barton, Ellis and Russell counties all showed declines through the first half of the year of more than 17%, but output in Stafford County was up more than four percent from the first-half total last year. Operators in Barton County pumped 3,718 bpd through the end of June. Ellis County produced 5727 bpd. Output in Russell County was 3,408 bpd, and Stafford County notched 2,511 bpd. The Energy Information Administration said domestic crude inventories dropped by nearly four million barrels last week, but remain about 11% above the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude-oil production totals declined half a million barrels per day last week. Current U.S. output is 10.45 million [["ten point four five million"]] barrels per day, That's down more than two million barrels per day from a year ago, a decline of about 17%. The government said U.S. crude imports averaged 5.3 million barrels per day last week, down nearly half a million from the week before. The four-week average is down more than 15% from a year ago. Most motorists are seeing stability at the gas pump. The auto club AAA says weekly statewide averages held steady in 45 of the 50 states. At $2.17 a gallon, the national average is down a penny from a month ago, while the average in Kansas is four cents lower than last month at $1.94 per gallon.&nbsp; You can find it for $1.92 at several stations in Hays, but it's up to $1.99 in Great Bend. Oil-by-rail traffic remains nearly 20% behind last year even as grain shipments help bring total rail traffic out of its long downturn. Grain shipments are up 31% year-over-year, while total traffic is up two percent. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,259 tanker cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products during the week ending October 10, down 169 cars from the week before.&nbsp; August crude oil production in the nation's second biggest producing state increased in August, jumping 120,000 barrels per day over the final July totals. The Department of Mineral Resources reports total output in North Dakota increased to more than 36 million barrels, or 1.16 million [["one point one six million"]] barrels per day. That's down nearly half a million barrels per day from the all-time high reached last November. The downturn in North Dakota production has brought the state within its anti-flaring goals, which had been out of reach a year ago. Regulators said operators there were able to capture 92% of the natural gas produced by its oil wells in August. That's well within the state's goals which will expand to 91% next month. Goldman Sachs offers a surprising perspective on the presidential election. According to the Houston Chronicle, a research note released Sunday says a Blue Wave in the election would be a positive catalyst for the oil patch. The note says tougher regulations on hydraulic fracturing would likely reduce production, and thus raise prices. Newspapers across Texas, including the Chronicle, have been documenting some dramatic steps being taken in the Texas oil patch to hedge against a win by Democrats. The Russian oil pipeline monopoly and that country's biggest producer have reached a settlement with the French oil firm Total over dirty crude supplies. Upwards of 35 million barrels of crude contaminated with organic chlorides were sent to a German refinery last year. The amount of the settlement was not announced.&nbsp; Libya took a major step toward reviving its battered oil industry by reopening its biggest field. Libya’s state energy company lifted restrictions and expects upwards of 300,000 barrels per day by next week, nearly doubling Libya's output. The reopening follows a truce in Libya’s long-running civil war that’s already led to many oil fields and ports in the east starting up after an almost total shutdown since January.

News From the Oil Patch: Drilling activity on the rise

WAKEENEY — As a Halloween treat, WaKeeney Public Library will sponsor a free performance of&nbsp;Murder at the Wolf Hotel&nbsp;on Sunday, October 25, at 1 p.m. at Jake &amp; Chet’s Café,&nbsp;233 S. 1st Street in WaKeeney.&nbsp; The show is open to customers who have already come for lunch and also to members of the community who just want to see the show.&nbsp; All audience members will enjoy a free dessert and coffee, tea or soda, compliments of the Library.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When Chris McCord, owner of the Historic Wolf Hotel in Ellinwood, KS called performing artist Brett Crandall, it didn’t take long for the two to realize they have a lot in common. They are both passionate entrepreneurs. Both have very big ideas. But the two also share a unique, personal drive to showcase the wholesome, yet gritty charm of the Sunflower State to the world.&nbsp; After a brief meeting and tour of the well-preserved landmark, Crandall began to piece together a comedy riddled with crimes inspired by&nbsp;Ellinwood’s colorful history.&nbsp;&nbsp;The result was&nbsp;Murder at the Wolf Hotel, a new interactive murder-mystery play in which a bumbling detective sleuths out which of the suspects, volunteers from the audience, is guilty.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brett Crandall is an actor, writer, producer and puppeteer who received his formal acting training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.&nbsp; He then appeared in plays in New York as well as in tours of children’s shows with the Traveling Lantern Theatre&nbsp;Company in the Northeast.&nbsp;&nbsp;He played multiple characters in&nbsp;Robin Hood, Pinocchio,&nbsp;A Christmas Carol, and&nbsp;The Caterpillar Hunter&nbsp;forlibraries and elementary schools.&nbsp;

A few years ago, Brett created his own production company, Brett Crandall Studios, to bring “performance opportunities for both artists and audiences” to different parts of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;His recent productions include&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz, Oliver Twist, and&nbsp;A Christmas Carol.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For this new original play, inspired by Kansas history during the Prohibition Era, Crandall researched the town of Ellinwood.&nbsp; It was originally a stop along the Santa Fe Trail and attracted many German and Austrian immigrants.&nbsp; It expanded as a popular rest station for cowboys on the Cox Cattle Trail with up to eleven saloons by the turn of the century in an&nbsp;underground complex of barber shops, blacksmith shops, brothels and other stores built under the town’s main streets.&nbsp; “The Underground” is now a tourist destination along with the refurbished Wolf Hotel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since its debut,&nbsp;the play&nbsp;has been performed in Satanta, Garden City, Lawrence, Liberal, and Crandall’s hometown of Deerfield.&nbsp; Crandall explains one of his goals is to shed light on the lives of disenfranchised Kansans of the past, such as interracial and LGBTQ+ couples, by offering a diverse representation and historical context left out of the history books.&nbsp; He hopes to “dispel myths about what minorities experienced 100 years ago and may still experience today.”

Murder at the Wolf Hotel&nbsp;will be performed in the lounge area and side room at Jake &amp; Chet’s Cafe which has plenty of atmosphere to evoke the hotel speakeasy setting.&nbsp; There is also room for spacing of tables and groups to observe the social distancing and precautions for Covid-19 that is already the norm at the restaurant.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Library will also be offering free face masks, hand sanitizer, and cool door prizes for attendees.

For more information, contact the Library at 785-743-2960.&nbsp;&nbsp;To book a stay at The Historic Wolf Hotel, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://historicwolfhotel.com/">historicwolfhotel.com</a>. To learn more about Brett Crandall Studios, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://brettcrandallstudios.com/">BrettCrandallStudios.com</a>.&nbsp; The WaKeeney Public Library website is:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://wakeeney.nwkls.org/">wakeeney.nwkls.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603139852218.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy WaKeeney Public Library" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WaKeeney Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWAKEENEY — As a Halloween treat, WaKeeney Public Library will sponsor a free performance of&nbsp;Murder at the Wolf Hotel&nbsp;on Sunday, October 25, at 1 p.m. at Jake &amp; Chet’s Café,&nbsp;233 S. 1st Street in WaKeeney.&nbsp; The show is open to customers who have already come for lunch and also to members of the community who just want to see the show.&nbsp; All audience members will enjoy a free dessert and coffee, tea or soda, compliments of the Library.&nbsp;&nbsp;When Chris McCord, owner of the Historic Wolf Hotel in Ellinwood, KS called performing artist Brett Crandall, it didn’t take long for the two to realize they have a lot in common. They are both passionate entrepreneurs. Both have very big ideas. But the two also share a unique, personal drive to showcase the wholesome, yet gritty charm of the Sunflower State to the world.&nbsp; After a brief meeting and tour of the well-preserved landmark, Crandall began to piece together a comedy riddled with crimes inspired by&nbsp;Ellinwood’s colorful history.&nbsp;&nbsp;The result was&nbsp;Murder at the Wolf Hotel, a new interactive murder-mystery play in which a bumbling detective sleuths out which of the suspects, volunteers from the audience, is guilty.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brett Crandall is an actor, writer, producer and puppeteer who received his formal acting training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.&nbsp; He then appeared in plays in New York as well as in tours of children’s shows with the Traveling Lantern Theatre&nbsp;Company in the Northeast.&nbsp;&nbsp;He played multiple characters in&nbsp;Robin Hood, Pinocchio,&nbsp;A Christmas Carol, and&nbsp;The Caterpillar Hunter&nbsp;forlibraries and elementary schools.&nbsp;A few years ago, Brett created his own production company, Brett Crandall Studios, to bring “performance opportunities for both artists and audiences” to different parts of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;His recent productions include&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz, Oliver Twist, and&nbsp;A Christmas Carol.&nbsp;&nbsp;For this new original play, inspired by Kansas history during the Prohibition Era, Crandall researched the town of Ellinwood.&nbsp; It was originally a stop along the Santa Fe Trail and attracted many German and Austrian immigrants.&nbsp; It expanded as a popular rest station for cowboys on the Cox Cattle Trail with up to eleven saloons by the turn of the century in an&nbsp;underground complex of barber shops, blacksmith shops, brothels and other stores built under the town’s main streets.&nbsp; “The Underground” is now a tourist destination along with the refurbished Wolf Hotel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since its debut,&nbsp;the play&nbsp;has been performed in Satanta, Garden City, Lawrence, Liberal, and Crandall’s hometown of Deerfield.&nbsp; Crandall explains one of his goals is to shed light on the lives of disenfranchised Kansans of the past, such as interracial and LGBTQ+ couples, by offering a diverse representation and historical context left out of the history books.&nbsp; He hopes to “dispel myths about what minorities experienced 100 years ago and may still experience today.”Murder at the Wolf Hotel&nbsp;will be performed in the lounge area and side room at Jake &amp; Chet’s Cafe which has plenty of atmosphere to evoke the hotel speakeasy setting.&nbsp; There is also room for spacing of tables and groups to observe the social distancing and precautions for Covid-19 that is already the norm at the restaurant.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Library will also be offering free face masks, hand sanitizer, and cool door prizes for attendees.For more information, contact the Library at 785-743-2960.&nbsp;&nbsp;To book a stay at The Historic Wolf Hotel, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://historicwolfhotel.com/">historicwolfhotel.com</a>. To learn more about Brett Crandall Studios, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://brettcrandallstudios.com/">BrettCrandallStudios.com</a>.&nbsp; The WaKeeney Public Library website is:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://wakeeney.nwkls.org/">wakeeney.nwkls.org</a>.

WaKeeney library sponsors free showing of 'Murder at the Wolf Hotel'

TOPEKA – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Kansas, Lynne Hinrichsen, has announced that USDA is investing $985,399 to provide telemedicine software and equipment to ensure equitable health care access at rural, sparsely staffed medical facilities in a seven-state (IA, KS, MN, MT, ND, NE, and WY), 66-county area in the Upper Midwest through the Emergency Telemedicine Project. 

“Telemedicine provides rural residents with easier access to more medical resources,” Hinrichsen said. “This project enhances the focus on direct patient care delivered via telemedicine through eEmergency."&nbsp; 

The Emergency Telemedicine Project brings interactive video and computer equipment to telehealth consultations with specialty care providers. 

Avera Health is an integrated health system based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, that provides top-quality health services. Avera serves a population of nearly one million throughout a geographical footprint of 72,000 square miles and 86 counties in the Upper Midwest.

They offer a wide range of specialists throughout their innovative Avera eCARE telemedicine services available at more than 150 Avera clinics and doctors’ offices across the region. 

Avera’s systems serve the following 16 Kansas counties:

Cheyenne McPherson Phillips Wichita Decatur Nemaha Rawlins Gove Ness Russell Jackson Norton Sheridan Lincoln Pawnee Trego

USDA Rural Development (RDUSDA) provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business&nbsp;development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. 

For more information, visit <a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/ks">www.rd.usda.gov/ks</a> or call (785) 271-2700.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581113122703.jpeg" alt=" Brian Skow, an emergency room specialist, and nurse Amanda Sandager respond to a video call at Avera eCARE telemedicine center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption> Brian Skow, an emergency room specialist, and nurse Amanda Sandager respond to a video call at Avera eCARE telemedicine center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>USDATOPEKA – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Kansas, Lynne Hinrichsen, has announced that USDA is investing $985,399 to provide telemedicine software and equipment to ensure equitable health care access at rural, sparsely staffed medical facilities in a seven-state (IA, KS, MN, MT, ND, NE, and WY), 66-county area in the Upper Midwest through the Emergency Telemedicine Project. “Telemedicine provides rural residents with easier access to more medical resources,” Hinrichsen said. “This project enhances the focus on direct patient care delivered via telemedicine through eEmergency."&nbsp; The Emergency Telemedicine Project brings interactive video and computer equipment to telehealth consultations with specialty care providers. Avera Health is an integrated health system based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, that provides top-quality health services. Avera serves a population of nearly one million throughout a geographical footprint of 72,000 square miles and 86 counties in the Upper Midwest. They offer a wide range of specialists throughout their innovative Avera eCARE telemedicine services available at more than 150 Avera clinics and doctors’ offices across the region. Avera’s systems serve the following 16 Kansas counties: Cheyenne McPherson Phillips Wichita Decatur Nemaha Rawlins Gove Ness Russell Jackson Norton Sheridan Lincoln Pawnee Trego USDA Rural Development (RDUSDA) provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business&nbsp;development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/ks">www.rd.usda.gov/ks</a> or call (785) 271-2700.&nbsp;

NW Kan. counties benefit from USDA Emergency Telemedicine Project

Three people were injured in an accident just after 12:30 p.m. Monday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Hyundai Elantra driven by Sandra Sue Beisner, 55, Hays, was northbound on 270th.

The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at Airbase Road and struck a westbound 1997 Dodge 1500 driven by Becky Ann Molthan, 40, Catharine. The Dodge rolled onto its top in the north ditch.&nbsp;

EMS transported Beisner, Molthan and a 9-year-old passenger in the Dodge to Hays Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Three people were injured in an accident just after 12:30 p.m. Monday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Hyundai Elantra driven by Sandra Sue Beisner, 55, Hays, was northbound on 270th.The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at Airbase Road and struck a westbound 1997 Dodge 1500 driven by Becky Ann Molthan, 40, Catharine. The Dodge rolled onto its top in the north ditch.&nbsp;EMS transported Beisner, Molthan and a 9-year-old passenger in the Dodge to Hays Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Two women, 9-year-old hospitalized after Ellis Co. crash

Donna Krug, Cottonwood District Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent from the Great Bend office in the will be in Hays on Thursday, October 22nd&nbsp;at 5:30 pm to present “Taking a New Look at Fermented Foods”.&nbsp;

The process of fermenting foods – to preserve them and make them more digestible and more nutritious is as old as humanity. Fermented foods are a powerful aid to digestion and a protection against disease. There is an increased interest today to learn the basics of fermentation and how adding more fermented food to the diet can impact health. Join Donna Krug on Thursday, the 22nd&nbsp;as she shares the basic process of fermenting foods in a wide mouth canning jar. Tested recipes will be shared. By following the simple steps outlined in Donna’s fact sheet you will have the tools to safely experiment with fermenting foods in your own kitchen.&nbsp;

The program will be held in the large meeting room at the back of the Extension office in Hays and social distancing will be practiced. An RSVP to the Extension Office 785-628-9430 or completing the survey at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/FermentFoodsHays">https://tinyurl.com/FermentFoodsHays</a>&nbsp;would be greatly appreciated.&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>Donna Krug, Cottonwood District Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent from the Great Bend office in the will be in Hays on Thursday, October 22nd&nbsp;at 5:30 pm to present “Taking a New Look at Fermented Foods”.&nbsp;The process of fermenting foods – to preserve them and make them more digestible and more nutritious is as old as humanity. Fermented foods are a powerful aid to digestion and a protection against disease. There is an increased interest today to learn the basics of fermentation and how adding more fermented food to the diet can impact health. Join Donna Krug on Thursday, the 22nd&nbsp;as she shares the basic process of fermenting foods in a wide mouth canning jar. Tested recipes will be shared. By following the simple steps outlined in Donna’s fact sheet you will have the tools to safely experiment with fermenting foods in your own kitchen.&nbsp;The program will be held in the large meeting room at the back of the Extension office in Hays and social distancing will be practiced. An RSVP to the Extension Office 785-628-9430 or completing the survey at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/FermentFoodsHays">https://tinyurl.com/FermentFoodsHays</a>&nbsp;would be greatly appreciated.&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: Taking a new look at fermented foods

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays USD 489 school board members have received messages from parents in favor and against a proposal to shorten COVID-19 quarantines in some cases, according to Ron Wilson, superintendent.

In a special meeting Monday night, the board unanimously approved a recommendation to reduce the quarantine from 14 days to seven days for students or staff identified as close contacts in the school environment, and all parties were wearing masks.&nbsp;

The idea was shared last week with building administrators, and the feedback was very positive, Wilson said.

"From a teacher's perspective, it can alleviate some stress from the standpoint when they are trying to teach a [in-person] class but also have a&nbsp;large quarantine class. By having less kids that they're trying to do two things at the same time, it'll relieve some stress there," Wilson told the board.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The rationale for the change is based upon a data sample taken Oct. 15, the end of the academic year's first nine weeks.

It shows show 611 students and staff have missed school days because of coronavirus quarantine and/or isolation.

None of the students or staff placed in quarantine due to close contact in school have tested positive during their quarantine period.

The seven-day adjustment in quarantine is based on the number of days most individuals develop symptoms after exposure — three to seven days.&nbsp;

"We want to keep our kids in school," said the parents and one Hays High School educator who spoke Monday in favor of the shortened quarantine. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603157878499.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 school board members voted unanimously in a special meeting Monday night to approve reduction of COVID-19 quarantine from 14 days to 7 days for students or staff identified as close contacts in the school environment, and all parties were wearing masks." />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 school board members voted unanimously in a special meeting Monday night to approve reduction of COVID-19 quarantine from 14 days to 7 days for students or staff identified as close contacts in the school environment, and all parties were wearing masks.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays USD 489 school board members have received messages from parents in favor and against a proposal to shorten COVID-19 quarantines in some cases, according to Ron Wilson, superintendent.In a special meeting Monday night, the board unanimously approved a recommendation to reduce the quarantine from 14 days to seven days for students or staff identified as close contacts in the school environment, and all parties were wearing masks.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603159533366.jpeg" alt="Ron Wilson, USD 489 superintendent" />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson, USD 489 superintendent</figcaption>
 </figure>The idea was shared last week with building administrators, and the feedback was very positive, Wilson said. "From a teacher's perspective, it can alleviate some stress from the standpoint when they are trying to teach a [in-person] class but also have a&nbsp;large quarantine class. By having less kids that they're trying to do two things at the same time, it'll relieve some stress there," Wilson told the board.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rationale for the change is based upon a data sample taken Oct. 15, the end of the academic year's first nine weeks.It shows show 611 students and staff have missed school days because of coronavirus quarantine and/or isolation.None of the students or staff placed in quarantine due to close contact in school have tested positive during their quarantine period.The seven-day adjustment in quarantine is based on the number of days most individuals develop symptoms after exposure — three to seven days.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G4CWET8x1JE"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We want to keep our kids in school," said the parents and one Hays High School educator who spoke Monday in favor of the shortened quarantine. Each person related personal observations of students who are not doing well, physically or mentally, when they return to school after the 14-day quarantine or when taking classes online during the quarantine.&nbsp;"Online classes don't work for everyone," said parent Rene Myers, who is an instructor at NCK Tech college in Hays.&nbsp;Myers also talked about reported incidents of bullying and anger at students who are quarantined.Dr. Heather Harris, medical director of HaysMed, and Jason Kennedy, Ellis County Health Services director, both of whom are parents with children in the Hays school district, also talked in support of the shorter quarantine.&nbsp;The two health providers meet each Tuesday morning to discuss the pandemic's impact on USD 489 and advise on the district's updated COVID plan for the 2020-21 school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603163068599.jpeg" alt="Jason Kennedy, Ellis County Health Services director" />
 <figcaption>Jason Kennedy, Ellis County Health Services director</figcaption>
 </figure>"We're saying that because these kids are social distancing, because they're washing their hands, because they're wearing masks, because they're adapting their schedules, because they're doing things the general public isn't doing, they're at lower risk," Kennedy explained.&nbsp;"Therefore, we'll be able to reduce or look at reduction in some of the measure to mitigate the risk because we've already taken measures upfront to mitigate that same risk."Kennedy and Harris both said the majority of positive COVID-19 patients in Ellis County have reported attending large family gatherings, especially weddings.School Board President Mike Walker noted the quarantine policy could change again at any time.&nbsp;Kennedy stressed he still has the state and county authority to issue a quarantine order, despite the board's decision."We can turn this thing around on a dime if the numbers start to grow," said Harris.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603162928492.jpeg" alt="Heather Harris, D.O., is the medical director of HaysMed." />
 <figcaption>Heather Harris, D.O., is the medical director of HaysMed.</figcaption>
 </figure>Still, "nobody who went home, came back sick," Harris noted, although&nbsp; it's possible someone can be COVID-positive with no symptoms, she added.Students who currently are in the midst of the close contact quarantine will be able to return to their classrooms seven calendar days from the last day of contact.The shortened quarantine policy is effective immediately.

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