Come join the United Way at Gutch's Bar and Grill, 111 W. 7th, for their first Dine Out Day of 2020.

A portion of the proceeds between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. will be donated to the United Way of Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602082926909.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UWECCome join the United Way at Gutch's Bar and Grill, 111 W. 7th, for their first Dine Out Day of 2020.A portion of the proceeds between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. will be donated to the United Way of Ellis County.

First United Way 2020 Dine Out Day fundraiser is today at Gutch's 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A vacant building in downtown Hays is being remodeled into a new pit barbecue restaurant.

Hays businessman Jacob Profitt bought 110 W. 11th last week at a sheriff's sale. The building has been other restaurants, but was&nbsp; last occupied by German-themed restaurant Das Essen Hutte.

Proffitt said remodeling has already started on the building and he has hired a pit master with 40 years experience for the restaurant.

He said he hopes to have the new business open in December or January.

Proffitt said all of the meat for the restaurant will be wood smoked fresh daily.

"Great pit barbecue is something that Hays has never had, and we have a pit master who is phenomenal," Proffitt said.

The restaurant will also offer traditional barbecue sides.

The name of the new restaurant will be Brick Rockin' BBQ.

The rock 'n' roll theme comes from the building's musical history. It was a record store between about 1920 and 1940.

This not Proffitt's first foray into local food.

Proffitt also owns  Kitsune Asian Creations, The Uptown Fox, Taco Grande restaurants in Russell and Hays, Auman Co. and Team prophecy MMA. He is a co-owner of Tiger Burger and Munsch Fitness.

Proffitt purchased 110 W. 11th for $104,401. The building was formerly owned by Plainville businessman Chuck Comeau and Liberty Group.

Four other properties also once owned by Comeau were sold at the sale.

Realtor Adam Pray bought four properties that were sold together for a total of&nbsp; $259,201. They include 1107-1109 and 1111 Main St. and 106 W. 12th St.&nbsp;

The storefronts at 1107 Main St. and 106 W. 12th St. are vacant. The buildings at&nbsp;1109 and 1111 Main St. are occupied by clothing store Couture for Men.

Pray said he has signed a long-term lease with&nbsp;Couture for Men. One of the other properties already has a lease pending.&nbsp;

He said he is still considering options for the second floor spaces on Main Street. One option is Airbnb spaces.

Pray also purchased the former bank building at 1108 Main St. last year during another Comeau foreclosure sale. That will be opening soon as a Haunted Hotel for Halloween. Watch the Hays Post for more details on that to be released soon.

Emprise Bank was granted foreclosures on the properties.&nbsp;Bank of Hays was listed as a second mortgage holder on the properties.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/10/18/downtown-hays-business-owners-buy-comeau-properties/">Thirteen downtown Hays properties also owned by Comeau and his Liberty Group were sold at sheriff's sale in October 2019.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/04/17/dessin-fournir-subsidiaries-file-for-bankruptcy-comeau-properties-foreclosed/">Comeau’s furniture manufacturing company in Plainville, Dessin Fournir, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2019.</a>

RELATED STORY:&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/07/12/comeau-discusses-fall-of-dessin-fournir/">Comeau discusses fall of Dessin Fournir</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599150299124.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA vacant building in downtown Hays is being remodeled into a new pit barbecue restaurant.Hays businessman Jacob Profitt bought 110 W. 11th last week at a sheriff's sale. The building has been other restaurants, but was&nbsp; last occupied by German-themed restaurant Das Essen Hutte.Proffitt said remodeling has already started on the building and he has hired a pit master with 40 years experience for the restaurant.He said he hopes to have the new business open in December or January.Proffitt said all of the meat for the restaurant will be wood smoked fresh daily."Great pit barbecue is something that Hays has never had, and we have a pit master who is phenomenal," Proffitt said.The restaurant will also offer traditional barbecue sides.The name of the new restaurant will be Brick Rockin' BBQ.The rock 'n' roll theme comes from the building's musical history. It was a record store between about 1920 and 1940.This not Proffitt's first foray into local food.Proffitt also owns Kitsune Asian Creations, The Uptown Fox, Taco Grande restaurants in Russell and Hays, Auman Co. and Team prophecy MMA. He is a co-owner of Tiger Burger and Munsch Fitness.Proffitt purchased 110 W. 11th for $104,401. The building was formerly owned by Plainville businessman Chuck Comeau and Liberty Group.Four other properties also once owned by Comeau were sold at the sale.Realtor Adam Pray bought four properties that were sold together for a total of&nbsp; $259,201. They include 1107-1109 and 1111 Main St. and 106 W. 12th St.&nbsp;The storefronts at 1107 Main St. and 106 W. 12th St. are vacant. The buildings at&nbsp;1109 and 1111 Main St. are occupied by clothing store Couture for Men.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599150176791.jpeg" alt="1107-1109 and&nbsp;1111 Main St.&nbsp;1109 and 1111 Main St. are occupied by Couture for Men." />
 <figcaption>1107-1109 and&nbsp;1111 Main St.&nbsp;1109 and 1111 Main St. are occupied by Couture for Men.</figcaption>
 </figure>Pray said he has signed a long-term lease with&nbsp;Couture for Men. One of the other properties already has a lease pending.&nbsp;He said he is still considering options for the second floor spaces on Main Street. One option is Airbnb spaces.Pray also purchased the former bank building at 1108 Main St. last year during another Comeau foreclosure sale. That will be opening soon as a Haunted Hotel for Halloween. Watch the Hays Post for more details on that to be released soon.Emprise Bank was granted foreclosures on the properties.&nbsp;Bank of Hays was listed as a second mortgage holder on the properties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599150261245.jpeg" alt="106 W. 12th St. is south of the Hays Public Library parking lot. It was last occupied by the Downtown Hays Development Corps. office." />
 <figcaption>106 W. 12th St. is south of the Hays Public Library parking lot. It was last occupied by the Downtown Hays Development Corps. office.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/10/18/downtown-hays-business-owners-buy-comeau-properties/">Thirteen downtown Hays properties also owned by Comeau and his Liberty Group were sold at sheriff's sale in October 2019.&nbsp;</a><a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/04/17/dessin-fournir-subsidiaries-file-for-bankruptcy-comeau-properties-foreclosed/">Comeau’s furniture manufacturing company in Plainville, Dessin Fournir, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2019.</a>RELATED STORY:&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/07/12/comeau-discusses-fall-of-dessin-fournir/">Comeau discusses fall of Dessin Fournir</a>

UPDATE: Vacant Hays restaurant being remodeled into pit barbecue

Ness County Sheriff's Department

On October 6 at approximately 4:25 p.m., Ness County Sheriffs Office conducted a traffic stop on a white 2017 Chevy Cruz for a minor infraction at H Rd on K96 Hwy in Ness County. During the stop, K9 Kaia was deployed and indicated an odor of narcotics on several areas of the vehicle. As Deputies requested the female driver to exit the vehicle she fled from the stop and pursuit ensued. Ness County Emergency Management overheard the radio traffic and shut down vehicles at the K96/U283 Hwy Jct in Ness City. 

The vehicle was chased through Ness City, and Ness County into Rush County and continued north on 183 Hwy into Hays, Ellis County. The Pursuit encompassed approximately 75 miles at speeds exceeding 115 mph. Spike strips were deployed and were unsuccessful 4 times during the pursuit, and 1 successful deployment just inside the south city limits of Hays, Kansas. At one point the driver used her vehicle to swerve at law enforcement officers attempting to use spike strips to stop the pursuit. The pursuit was ended when Kansas Highway patrol performed a tactical vehicle intervention (TVI) maneuver on the vehicle, in the 1900 block of Vine Street in Hays. 

After a preliminary probable cause search of the vehicle, approximately 30 - 40 individual containers of THC, THC paraphernalia and other drug paraphernalia were located in the trunk and passenger area of the vehicle. 

The vehicle is currently being held by Ness County Sheriffs Office for further investigation. The female driver was arrested on charges including: Felony Flee and Elude, Possession of Marijuana with the intent to distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer. 

No injuries to pursuing law enforcement, general public or suspect in this incident were reported.

This is an ongoing investigation. Formal Charges are pending in Ness County, Kansas. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.

A very special thank you to Ness County Emergency Management, Rush County Sheriffs Office, Ellis County Sheriffs Office, Hays Police Department, and Kansas Highway Patrol. You all put your lives on the line for your communities and fellow law enforcement today, and produced the best outcome possible.

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A number of law enforcement agencies used their vehicles to surround and stop a white car driving north on Vine Street in Hays Tuesday shortly after 5:30 p.m. 

The incident occurred near the intersection of 19th Street.

An employee of the nearby LoanMax told Hays Post she saw officers with guns drawn as the male driver was removed from the small vehicle and handcuffed, followed by officers searching the car.

Check back with Hays Post as more details become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602028327879.png" alt="Pursuing law enforcement agencies forced the stop of a white vehicle in the 1900 block of Vine Street about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. (Photo courtesy Ashli Leiker)" />
 <figcaption>Pursuing law enforcement agencies forced the stop of a white vehicle in the 1900 block of Vine Street about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. (Photo courtesy Ashli Leiker)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ness County Sheriff's DepartmentOn October 6 at approximately 4:25 p.m., Ness County Sheriffs Office conducted a traffic stop on a white 2017 Chevy Cruz for a minor infraction at H Rd on K96 Hwy in Ness County. During the stop, K9 Kaia was deployed and indicated an odor of narcotics on several areas of the vehicle. As Deputies requested the female driver to exit the vehicle she fled from the stop and pursuit ensued. Ness County Emergency Management overheard the radio traffic and shut down vehicles at the K96/U283 Hwy Jct in Ness City. The vehicle was chased through Ness City, and Ness County into Rush County and continued north on 183 Hwy into Hays, Ellis County. The Pursuit encompassed approximately 75 miles at speeds exceeding 115 mph. Spike strips were deployed and were unsuccessful 4 times during the pursuit, and 1 successful deployment just inside the south city limits of Hays, Kansas. At one point the driver used her vehicle to swerve at law enforcement officers attempting to use spike strips to stop the pursuit. The pursuit was ended when Kansas Highway patrol performed a tactical vehicle intervention (TVI) maneuver on the vehicle, in the 1900 block of Vine Street in Hays. After a preliminary probable cause search of the vehicle, approximately 30 - 40 individual containers of THC, THC paraphernalia and other drug paraphernalia were located in the trunk and passenger area of the vehicle. The vehicle is currently being held by Ness County Sheriffs Office for further investigation. The female driver was arrested on charges including: Felony Flee and Elude, Possession of Marijuana with the intent to distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer. No injuries to pursuing law enforcement, general public or suspect in this incident were reported.This is an ongoing investigation. Formal Charges are pending in Ness County, Kansas. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.A very special thank you to Ness County Emergency Management, Rush County Sheriffs Office, Ellis County Sheriffs Office, Hays Police Department, and Kansas Highway Patrol. You all put your lives on the line for your communities and fellow law enforcement today, and produced the best outcome possible.<h2>Original Story</h2>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA number of law enforcement agencies used their vehicles to surround and stop a white car driving north on Vine Street in Hays Tuesday shortly after 5:30 p.m. The incident occurred near the intersection of 19th Street.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fashliandnash%2Fvideos%2F10220158230038515%2F&show_text=false&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>(Video courtesy Ashli Leiker)An employee of the nearby LoanMax told Hays Post she saw officers with guns drawn as the male driver was removed from the small vehicle and handcuffed, followed by officers searching the car.Check back with Hays Post as more details become available.

UPDATE: 🎥 Law enforcement stops vehicle, draw guns and take driver into custody on Vine Street

TOPEKA&nbsp;—&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz have announced the recipients of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s new Short Line Rail Fund program. They were joined by Ron Seeber, president and CEO of the Kansas Grain and Feed Association and Bruce Carswell, senior vice president and COO of the Western Group, which owns the Cimarron Valley Railroad.

Thirteen projects were awarded grants totaling $5 million. Four projects were awarded to short line railroads and nine projects were awarded to shippers, including <a href="https://www.frontieraginc.com/about-us">Frontier Ag</a> of northwest Kansas.

The program is a partnership between the public and private sector, as applicants are required to provide 30% in matching funds. This year’s selected projects will improve and/or construct nearly 15 miles of track totaling a $7 million investment.

“This project, and the IKE program as a whole, exemplify the change in how this administration does business,”&nbsp;said Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp;“The State of Kansas will benefit because of programs like IKE, which demonstrates how government can be dynamic, fiscally responsible, and implement cutting-edge strategies to produce results for our communities.”

Projects were selected based on the following criteria:

The Short Line Rail Fund was created under Governor Kelly’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, commonly referred to as IKE. It provides $5 million annually for three years.

“KDOT recognizes the important role that rail plays in our state’s economy and the Short Line Rail Improvement Fund is another opportunity for us to partner with industry to help modernize and make needed improvements,”&nbsp;said Secretary Lorenz.&nbsp;“Across all of our funding programs, KDOT is partnering on rail projects worth over $102 million in 36 counties across Kansas.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602088477711.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;—&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz have announced the recipients of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s new Short Line Rail Fund program. They were joined by Ron Seeber, president and CEO of the Kansas Grain and Feed Association and Bruce Carswell, senior vice president and COO of the Western Group, which owns the Cimarron Valley Railroad.Thirteen projects were awarded grants totaling $5 million. Four projects were awarded to short line railroads and nine projects were awarded to shippers, including <a href="https://www.frontieraginc.com/about-us">Frontier Ag</a> of northwest Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602088579421.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The program is a partnership between the public and private sector, as applicants are required to provide 30% in matching funds. This year’s selected projects will improve and/or construct nearly 15 miles of track totaling a $7 million investment.“This project, and the IKE program as a whole, exemplify the change in how this administration does business,”&nbsp;said Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp;“The State of Kansas will benefit because of programs like IKE, which demonstrates how government can be dynamic, fiscally responsible, and implement cutting-edge strategies to produce results for our communities.”Projects were selected based on the following criteria:<ul>
 <li>Long-term impact on rail operations, economic competitiveness, and safety;</li><li>Enhanced goods movement and logistical improvements;</li><li>Job creation and the ability to expand currently served markets; and</li><li>Enhanced efficiency of rail operations and the reliability of the impacted railroad.</li>
 </ul>The Short Line Rail Fund was created under Governor Kelly’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, commonly referred to as IKE. It provides $5 million annually for three years.“KDOT recognizes the important role that rail plays in our state’s economy and the Short Line Rail Improvement Fund is another opportunity for us to partner with industry to help modernize and make needed improvements,”&nbsp;said Secretary Lorenz.&nbsp;“Across all of our funding programs, KDOT is partnering on rail projects worth over $102 million in 36 counties across Kansas.”

Frontier Ag awarded funds through Short Line Rail program

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

As my family is in the depths of the fall harvest season, the landscape all around us is beginning its annual preparation for winter. The colors surrounding our farm have begun their yearly transition and serve as a visual reminder that we have entered a new season: Fall.

It’s as if overnight the leaves on the trees have yellowed, the morning air has become crisp, the sun sets earlier, the moon rises sooner and the fall crops around us continue drying down.

The sights in town are reflections of this annual transition as well. The gorgeous mums now being prominently displayed at a greenhouse, the bright orange pumpkins lining the sidewalks at the grocery store, the newly posted signs advertising the latest seasonal coffee flavor and the school-aged children wearing sweatshirts or light jackets to school in the morning all serve as proof that fall has arrived.

As we continue our fall harvest— while also sowing wheat — it’s easy to overlook these seasonal changes. While we hurry to move equipment to the next field, scurry out the door with meals to deliver to the crew or drive the kids out to the combine operator for goodnight kisses, it is possible to miss this annual transition while driving down the dirt roads on a mission. Nonetheless, the changes are occurring.

It seems like it was only days ago that the Monarch butterflies briefly made a pit-stop in our area while migrating south. The Monarchs seem to have left, continuing their journey south. 

It seems like it was only days ago that my mother-in-law and I were planning our harvest meals menu, noting options needed to be cool and refreshing for the crew. We now discuss options that will warm them up.

It seems like it was only days ago that the air conditioner was running to cool us down, whereas now we contemplate turning on the seat warmer every morning when climbing into a vehicle.

It seems like it was only days ago that we’d go to sleep with open windows and the sounds of crickets and frogs. We now wake up with extra blankets wrapped around us.

While I try to make mental notes of these changes daily — hoping I can bottle up this season — I know I’m also missing things I only realize once they no longer occur. I’ll tell myself that I have to be ready next year to see or smell or taste or hear an element of fall I missed. It happens every year. And every year I tell myself that I must be ready because it always seems like overnight it immediately becomes fall.

"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/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher As my family is in the depths of the fall harvest season, the landscape all around us is beginning its annual preparation for winter. The colors surrounding our farm have begun their yearly transition and serve as a visual reminder that we have entered a new season: Fall.It’s as if overnight the leaves on the trees have yellowed, the morning air has become crisp, the sun sets earlier, the moon rises sooner and the fall crops around us continue drying down.The sights in town are reflections of this annual transition as well. The gorgeous mums now being prominently displayed at a greenhouse, the bright orange pumpkins lining the sidewalks at the grocery store, the newly posted signs advertising the latest seasonal coffee flavor and the school-aged children wearing sweatshirts or light jackets to school in the morning all serve as proof that fall has arrived.As we continue our fall harvest— while also sowing wheat — it’s easy to overlook these seasonal changes. While we hurry to move equipment to the next field, scurry out the door with meals to deliver to the crew or drive the kids out to the combine operator for goodnight kisses, it is possible to miss this annual transition while driving down the dirt roads on a mission. Nonetheless, the changes are occurring.It seems like it was only days ago that the Monarch butterflies briefly made a pit-stop in our area while migrating south. The Monarchs seem to have left, continuing their journey south. It seems like it was only days ago that my mother-in-law and I were planning our harvest meals menu, noting options needed to be cool and refreshing for the crew. We now discuss options that will warm them up.It seems like it was only days ago that the air conditioner was running to cool us down, whereas now we contemplate turning on the seat warmer every morning when climbing into a vehicle.It seems like it was only days ago that we’d go to sleep with open windows and the sounds of crickets and frogs. We now wake up with extra blankets wrapped around us.While I try to make mental notes of these changes daily — hoping I can bottle up this season — I know I’m also missing things I only realize once they no longer occur. I’ll tell myself that I have to be ready next year to see or smell or taste or hear an element of fall I missed. It happens every year. And every year I tell myself that I must be ready because it always seems like overnight it immediately becomes fall."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: Immediately, it becomes fall

Three-day weather outlook

Change in education goals used to come slowly.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since the 1960s, it’s generally come from federal law and Supreme Court rulings.&nbsp;&nbsp;But today, political polarization and social media clashes have devolved decision-making to debate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We live in civic turmoil that reaches every part of society—even into how children are taught our nation’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here in Kansas our educators and their curriculum are being unfairly pilloried by both the left and right in the cultural war over the teaching of U. S.&nbsp;&nbsp;history.&nbsp;

President Trump weighed in during the first presidential debate, recapping his Sept. 17 Constitution Day speech when he characterized demonstrations against racial injustice as “rioting and mayhem . . . a direct result of decades of left-wing indoctrination in our schools.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

His speech singled out&nbsp;The New York Times Magazine&nbsp;1619 Project as an example of far-left propaganda.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Pulitzer prize-winning series argues that&nbsp;the enslavement of Africans is central to understanding our country’s founding and that the nation’s foundational principles are deeply tied to racial oppression.&nbsp;&nbsp;To negate the Marxists’ viewpoint he sees being taught, the President announced a 1776 Commission to promote a curriculum that celebrates the greatness of America.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s not the first time that critics have argued for a different version of history, for example during the “Red Scare” of the 1920s, schools also were accused of teaching Marxist propaganda.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alternatively, critical race theory that emphasized racial and economic injustice flourished in the 1960s.&nbsp;

All history consists of narrative accounts, emerging from writers’ perspectives. History’s value is in accurately explaining events, and that singular purpose hasn’t always been honored in teaching our nation’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

No student in my late 1960s Norman (OK) high school classes learned of the Tulsa race riot because I didn’t know about it, despite the fact I was a native Oklahoman, University of Oklahoma graduate and a licensed U. S. history teacher.&nbsp;&nbsp;I learned about the riot many years later and I wasn’t the only teacher in that situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Glossing over unsavory parts of U. S. history in the name of patriotism doesn’t uphold our nation’s core values; neither does concentrating on our country’s failures.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 1619 Project deserved the Pulitzer but neither journalism nor a presidential commission should underwrite a curriculum belief system. Legally, what is taught in public schools is the purview of local school boards based on state policy and federal law.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas’s U. S. history curriculum standards and social studies standards for early grades are fact-based and can be reviewed on the Kansas State Department of Education Website.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As for Kansas teachers being Marxists or far-left agitators just think about those you often see—attending church, little-league games, 4-H meetings—hardly revolutionaries. As Kansas curriculum requires, the history of First Amendment rights and peaceful dissent is taught not as an attempt to indoctrinate Marxism or any other ideology.&nbsp;

Students need to learn about the Tulsa race riot, the Cherokee Trail of Tears and other shameful events in our history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students also need to learn how America became a world beacon of freedom and democracy and to embrace our country without ignoring its negative aspects.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas teachers instill patriotism by bringing students to a nuanced understanding of their country’s complex history--one that honors its greatness and, despite its failings, can achieve the goal of liberty and justice for all.&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Change in education goals used to come slowly.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since the 1960s, it’s generally come from federal law and Supreme Court rulings.&nbsp;&nbsp;But today, political polarization and social media clashes have devolved decision-making to debate.&nbsp;&nbsp;We live in civic turmoil that reaches every part of society—even into how children are taught our nation’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here in Kansas our educators and their curriculum are being unfairly pilloried by both the left and right in the cultural war over the teaching of U. S.&nbsp;&nbsp;history.&nbsp;President Trump weighed in during the first presidential debate, recapping his Sept. 17 Constitution Day speech when he characterized demonstrations against racial injustice as “rioting and mayhem . . . a direct result of decades of left-wing indoctrination in our schools.”&nbsp;&nbsp;His speech singled out&nbsp;The New York Times Magazine&nbsp;1619 Project as an example of far-left propaganda.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Pulitzer prize-winning series argues that&nbsp;the enslavement of Africans is central to understanding our country’s founding and that the nation’s foundational principles are deeply tied to racial oppression.&nbsp;&nbsp;To negate the Marxists’ viewpoint he sees being taught, the President announced a 1776 Commission to promote a curriculum that celebrates the greatness of America.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s not the first time that critics have argued for a different version of history, for example during the “Red Scare” of the 1920s, schools also were accused of teaching Marxist propaganda.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alternatively, critical race theory that emphasized racial and economic injustice flourished in the 1960s.&nbsp;All history consists of narrative accounts, emerging from writers’ perspectives. History’s value is in accurately explaining events, and that singular purpose hasn’t always been honored in teaching our nation’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;No student in my late 1960s Norman (OK) high school classes learned of the Tulsa race riot because I didn’t know about it, despite the fact I was a native Oklahoman, University of Oklahoma graduate and a licensed U. S. history teacher.&nbsp;&nbsp;I learned about the riot many years later and I wasn’t the only teacher in that situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Glossing over unsavory parts of U. S. history in the name of patriotism doesn’t uphold our nation’s core values; neither does concentrating on our country’s failures.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The 1619 Project deserved the Pulitzer but neither journalism nor a presidential commission should underwrite a curriculum belief system. Legally, what is taught in public schools is the purview of local school boards based on state policy and federal law.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas’s U. S. history curriculum standards and social studies standards for early grades are fact-based and can be reviewed on the Kansas State Department of Education Website.&nbsp;&nbsp;As for Kansas teachers being Marxists or far-left agitators just think about those you often see—attending church, little-league games, 4-H meetings—hardly revolutionaries. As Kansas curriculum requires, the history of First Amendment rights and peaceful dissent is taught not as an attempt to indoctrinate Marxism or any other ideology.&nbsp;Students need to learn about the Tulsa race riot, the Cherokee Trail of Tears and other shameful events in our history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students also need to learn how America became a world beacon of freedom and democracy and to embrace our country without ignoring its negative aspects.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas teachers instill patriotism by bringing students to a nuanced understanding of their country’s complex history--one that honors its greatness and, despite its failings, can achieve the goal of liberty and justice for all.&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The fight over teaching U.S. history in Kansas

ELLIS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after noon Tuesday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai passenger vehicle driven by William O. Rhoads, 23, Edwardsville, Illinois, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Walker Avenue at a high rate of speed during a pursuit.

The Hyundai rear-ended a 2017 Toyota passenger vehicle driven by Peggy A. Southard, 68, Lawrence, then left the roadway to the north and overturned in the ditch

Southard maintained control of her vehicle and pulled to the westbound shoulder where she parked.

EMS transported&nbsp;Rhoads to Hays Medical Center. Southard and a passenger were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

&nbsp; The KHP did not release details on what prompted the chase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565313643582.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after noon Tuesday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai passenger vehicle driven by William O. Rhoads, 23, Edwardsville, Illinois, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Walker Avenue at a high rate of speed during a pursuit.The Hyundai rear-ended a 2017 Toyota passenger vehicle driven by Peggy A. Southard, 68, Lawrence, then left the roadway to the north and overturned in the ditchSouthard maintained control of her vehicle and pulled to the westbound shoulder where she parked.EMS transported&nbsp;Rhoads to Hays Medical Center. Southard and a passenger were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP did not release details on what prompted the chase.

Driver hospitalized after rear-end crash during chase

I’ve noticed that here in Kansas, we get into lengthy rain cycles that last for a year or more. When we’re at one end of the cycle, rain predictions as small as 20% usually mean rain, sometimes lots of it. At the other end of the cycle, where we seem to be now, rain predictions of 60% and higher often bring no rain at all. I would be a rich man if I had a fiver for every time over the years I’ve seen good rain approach our part of the state, only to part and go north and south of us, then come back together in eastern KS to give them a good drenching.

By now you’ve probably heard most of the “It’s so dry that”….jokes, but here are a few more for good measure. It’s so dry the catfish are carrying canteens, trees are bribing dogs, and fire hydrants are chasing dogs down the street. The Democrats have announced a water pistol buy-back program, Baptists are baptizing with wet-wipes, and migrating ducks and geese have to bring their own water. CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture, and the Kansas Dept of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is offering a new hunting license this year; it’s good for the harvest of one camel, either sex. Yes, we need rain…again. Farmers and ranchers, please don’t tar-and-feather me for this statement, but a long dry spell this time of the year can have its benefits for outdoorsmen.&nbsp;

First let’s look at the obvious, that being how this dry spell will affect waterfowl hunting. Most of the McPherson Valley Wetlands near McPherson are dry or soon will be, and the wetlands just outside Inman have water in perhaps only one-half the pools. There are several ponds along the 61 four-lane highway that are completely dry, as are many other ponds in this part of the state. Many of these ponds and water impoundments are favored by ducks and geese over the next couple months, so now all those birds will have to find other water in farm ponds, stock ponds and sand pits for example. There is just as much feed around for them this year as any year, so that will probably mean just as many ducks and geese will stop here for a spell as on any year. Putting two-and-two together means if you can get permission to hunt some of those otherwise overlooked and out-of-sight spots that hold water, the waterfowl hunting for you this year may be tremendous.

Whether big game, small game, winged or four footed, furbearers or predators, all critters need water, and even though dry spells don’t affect critter movement patterns much, it’s a no-brainer that more wildlife will be watering at the ponds, creeks and rivers that still hold water. Deer stands placed near water are good bets near dawn and dusk on any year, but this season, hunting near a water source may be especially productive as more deer will be drinking from those spots. If your hunting property doesn’t have water on it, try hanging a stand or putting up a blind as close as you can get to the nearest water. Stock tanks and windmill tanks will probably be more popular watering spots this season for wildlife too, so if possible, find some cover within shooting range of them. In short, this year water sources may be as big a draw as corn feeders or salt blocks, so place you deer stands and blinds accordingly.

Although the properties I trap rarely have ponds on them, most predator trappers agree that pond dams are good spots to set traps for bobcats and coyotes, as they also need water and like to nose around on the dams. All pasture ponds will have cattle trails leading to and around them, and predators use those same trails too. Following the same thinking, since some of those ponds are dry this year, the ones still holding water might be better trap sites this year than usual, as more predators and furbearers will be traveling there to drink. Deep holes in creeks and rivers that still have water will also see more wildlife traffic that normal. I always wonder where all the beavers and muskrats go when ponds and drainage ditches go dry, and this year water sources still with water could see an influx of them too.

Fishing is affected by extended dry spells also as water levels drop in ponds, lakes, rivers and streams and fish become more concentrated around cover in the available water. I questioned a friend who is a tremendous fisherman about this and he confirmed my assessment. He also added that ice fishing is often great on years when water levels are low, as fish are easier to locate beneath the ice.&nbsp;

Jacques Cousteau once said “We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one.” Leonardo da Vinci saw that “Water is the driving force of all Nature.” Yes, it’s dry again and we need a good soaking rain. It seems that all the native Kansans I know have long ago made peace with our states propensity to stay dry, but as a Kansas transplant, I still struggle with that. Nelson Mandela said “Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all.” I guess we can furnish the work, bread and salt, but only God can send the water. Even though it’s dry, use some of the above tips 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>I’ve noticed that here in Kansas, we get into lengthy rain cycles that last for a year or more. When we’re at one end of the cycle, rain predictions as small as 20% usually mean rain, sometimes lots of it. At the other end of the cycle, where we seem to be now, rain predictions of 60% and higher often bring no rain at all. I would be a rich man if I had a fiver for every time over the years I’ve seen good rain approach our part of the state, only to part and go north and south of us, then come back together in eastern KS to give them a good drenching.By now you’ve probably heard most of the “It’s so dry that”….jokes, but here are a few more for good measure. It’s so dry the catfish are carrying canteens, trees are bribing dogs, and fire hydrants are chasing dogs down the street. The Democrats have announced a water pistol buy-back program, Baptists are baptizing with wet-wipes, and migrating ducks and geese have to bring their own water. CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture, and the Kansas Dept of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is offering a new hunting license this year; it’s good for the harvest of one camel, either sex. Yes, we need rain…again. Farmers and ranchers, please don’t tar-and-feather me for this statement, but a long dry spell this time of the year can have its benefits for outdoorsmen.&nbsp;First let’s look at the obvious, that being how this dry spell will affect waterfowl hunting. Most of the McPherson Valley Wetlands near McPherson are dry or soon will be, and the wetlands just outside Inman have water in perhaps only one-half the pools. There are several ponds along the 61 four-lane highway that are completely dry, as are many other ponds in this part of the state. Many of these ponds and water impoundments are favored by ducks and geese over the next couple months, so now all those birds will have to find other water in farm ponds, stock ponds and sand pits for example. There is just as much feed around for them this year as any year, so that will probably mean just as many ducks and geese will stop here for a spell as on any year. Putting two-and-two together means if you can get permission to hunt some of those otherwise overlooked and out-of-sight spots that hold water, the waterfowl hunting for you this year may be tremendous.Whether big game, small game, winged or four footed, furbearers or predators, all critters need water, and even though dry spells don’t affect critter movement patterns much, it’s a no-brainer that more wildlife will be watering at the ponds, creeks and rivers that still hold water. Deer stands placed near water are good bets near dawn and dusk on any year, but this season, hunting near a water source may be especially productive as more deer will be drinking from those spots. If your hunting property doesn’t have water on it, try hanging a stand or putting up a blind as close as you can get to the nearest water. Stock tanks and windmill tanks will probably be more popular watering spots this season for wildlife too, so if possible, find some cover within shooting range of them. In short, this year water sources may be as big a draw as corn feeders or salt blocks, so place you deer stands and blinds accordingly.Although the properties I trap rarely have ponds on them, most predator trappers agree that pond dams are good spots to set traps for bobcats and coyotes, as they also need water and like to nose around on the dams. All pasture ponds will have cattle trails leading to and around them, and predators use those same trails too. Following the same thinking, since some of those ponds are dry this year, the ones still holding water might be better trap sites this year than usual, as more predators and furbearers will be traveling there to drink. Deep holes in creeks and rivers that still have water will also see more wildlife traffic that normal. I always wonder where all the beavers and muskrats go when ponds and drainage ditches go dry, and this year water sources still with water could see an influx of them too.Fishing is affected by extended dry spells also as water levels drop in ponds, lakes, rivers and streams and fish become more concentrated around cover in the available water. I questioned a friend who is a tremendous fisherman about this and he confirmed my assessment. He also added that ice fishing is often great on years when water levels are low, as fish are easier to locate beneath the ice.&nbsp;Jacques Cousteau once said “We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one.” Leonardo da Vinci saw that “Water is the driving force of all Nature.” Yes, it’s dry again and we need a good soaking rain. It seems that all the native Kansans I know have long ago made peace with our states propensity to stay dry, but as a Kansas transplant, I still struggle with that. Nelson Mandela said “Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all.” I guess we can furnish the work, bread and salt, but only God can send the water. Even though it’s dry, use some of the above tips to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Can dry times be advantageous?

I want to continue to be your Treasurer through 2025, so I am a write-in candidate in the general election.&nbsp;

To vote for me requires you to fill in the bubble and then write my name.&nbsp;

Why take the effort to write in Lisa Schlegel?&nbsp; When there is confusion, look at the facts: my record-breaking revenue, a slashed budget to where I still spend less to run the Treasury than it cost in 2016, a fully cross-trained staff. Within my first year, the money I made the county paid for my salary for all 4 years of my term. The Treasury is now operating like a strong private sector organization, thanks to implementation of leadership practices I learned from my Bachelor’s degree in Leadership from FHSU.&nbsp;

I have always been upfront with my credentials. I graduated with honors with my Master’s degree from KU. I was nominated for the Torch Award at FHSU, the highest award annually given to a graduating senior. These credentials illustrate, (along with my performance as Treasurer), my persistence, integrity, intelligence, and motivation to work smart and produce results for citizens. I run this business for you.

I designed a strategic plan in 2017, and spent three years enacting it, systematically and successfully. 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 our Treasury in all facets. My resume includes record percentage-collection on taxes, hosting the first ever annual tax sales, and millions of dollars from banking proposals and investments. Our money is safer, too. I also hold a Level 2 Certified KS County Finance Officer credential. I am from Ellis County and I work FOR Ellis County.&nbsp;

I am a new person with new ideas; the county is full of “lifers” who want to keep the status quo and violently refuse to grow--I am not exaggerating. Being qualified and doing a good job seems secondary in every regard here. This poor leadership starts from the top down, and must change now before things go so far south we cannot come back from it without serious impact to citizens. The power has shifted from the politicians back to you this November. It is critical to the health of the county you pick honest local leaders.&nbsp;

Who will be the better Treasurer? Remove the distractions and outright lies politicians have told you to make you doubt me. Their goal is to secure their political sandbox from outsiders like me who put the citizens first. I have perfect audits for all three years of my term. I have done nothing wrong or illegal; if I had I would have been legally reprimanded. All the rumors are feathers in the wind, spread by people of poor character and no substance, grasping to hold onto political power.

Who do you choose? Julie, the Democratic candidate for Treasurer, no longer lives in Hays. She has refused to participate in the interviews and has not told citizens anything.&nbsp;

Vern, the Republican candidate has worked at the Landfill for several years. He is dangerously unqualified to be the Treasurer. He has been deliberately unclear about his job title in interviews, (Foreman of Landfill, Supervisor of a division of Public Works, and “a long-time county employee” are three ways he has introduced himself in public). Is length of employment a credential? It simply indicates his status as a non-threatening member of the good old boys club. Why should citizens have to pay to train Vern Ruder to do what I already do? What does he have to offer that competes with me? If he wins, he will tell you how great things are, and will look at you blankly when something, inevitably, goes wrong. His investment credentials are obscure and questionable, along with the multiple ways he has described his educational background. We don’t sell bonds at the Treasury, so that credential is not useful. He did not specify if he graduated from NCK Tech, but listed once he was in Management, and another time, it was Marketing. Which is it? What is his job title? What is his educational background?&nbsp;

It is ironic Vern Ruder cites “communication” as the biggest challenge to the Treasury 2021 onward. I am the first Treasurer to communicate with citizens. It is not I who lacks communication skills; communication is a two-way street. Since he brought it up, let’s look at his communication: he has been unclear in every facet of his communication with citizens about why he is running for Treasurer. He has spread rumors about my staff, when he knows nothing about what goes on in the Treasury. My staff are happy, and we have an enjoyable work environment. He says he will improve investments. I already have sound investments; it was the first sector I improved in 2017. He says he will decrease spending. That is not possible. I already decreased it. Vern brags he has a $1.2 million budget to run the Landfill. He has never presented to the Commission or citizens, line by line, as I have on my $515,000 budget for the Treasury. He spends without oversight, like most departments. He brags his budget is higher, as though that is a feather in his hat, but says he can come here and lower mine. Vern said he wants to buy kiosks for the Treasury to save money 2021 onward. He wants to cut employees and use technology, which was proven by Johnson County two years ago to be an unsuccessful hassle, and did not save money. I will keep your tax dollars local, supporting local jobs, not technological fads. &nbsp;

Competing candidates Vern and Julie do not come close to offering you what I can. Julie has stayed silent. Vern’s obscure description of his resume deflected from the one thing everyone at the county knows: under his management, the Landfill burned down in 2019.&nbsp; With the negligence he displayed in his current position with the County, why let him slide into the Treasury and bring more havoc?&nbsp;

Vern Ruder will work for the politicians; Treasurer Lisa Schlegel works for YOU. I want to continue to make my living working for you. 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. Advance-Vote at 718 Main Street before November 3, or vote at your polling place on election day.&nbsp;

Lisa Schlegel, Ellis County Treasurer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584719419709.png" alt="Lisa Schlegel" />
 <figcaption>Lisa Schlegel</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Citizens:I want to continue to be your Treasurer through 2025, so I am a write-in candidate in the general election.&nbsp;To vote for me requires you to fill in the bubble and then write my name.&nbsp;Why take the effort to write in Lisa Schlegel?&nbsp; When there is confusion, look at the facts: my record-breaking revenue, a slashed budget to where I still spend less to run the Treasury than it cost in 2016, a fully cross-trained staff. Within my first year, the money I made the county paid for my salary for all 4 years of my term. The Treasury is now operating like a strong private sector organization, thanks to implementation of leadership practices I learned from my Bachelor’s degree in Leadership from FHSU.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>I have always been upfront with my credentials. I graduated with honors with my Master’s degree from KU. I was nominated for the Torch Award at FHSU, the highest award annually given to a graduating senior. These credentials illustrate, (along with my performance as Treasurer), my persistence, integrity, intelligence, and motivation to work smart and produce results for citizens. I run this business for you.I designed a strategic plan in 2017, and spent three years enacting it, systematically and successfully. 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 our Treasury in all facets. My resume includes record percentage-collection on taxes, hosting the first ever annual tax sales, and millions of dollars from banking proposals and investments. Our money is safer, too. I also hold a Level 2 Certified KS County Finance Officer credential. I am from Ellis County and I work FOR Ellis County.&nbsp;I am a new person with new ideas; the county is full of “lifers” who want to keep the status quo and violently refuse to grow--I am not exaggerating. Being qualified and doing a good job seems secondary in every regard here. This poor leadership starts from the top down, and must change now before things go so far south we cannot come back from it without serious impact to citizens. The power has shifted from the politicians back to you this November. It is critical to the health of the county you pick honest local leaders.&nbsp;Who will be the better Treasurer? Remove the distractions and outright lies politicians have told you to make you doubt me. Their goal is to secure their political sandbox from outsiders like me who put the citizens first. I have perfect audits for all three years of my term. I have done nothing wrong or illegal; if I had I would have been legally reprimanded. All the rumors are feathers in the wind, spread by people of poor character and no substance, grasping to hold onto political power.Who do you choose? Julie, the Democratic candidate for Treasurer, no longer lives in Hays. She has refused to participate in the interviews and has not told citizens anything.&nbsp;Vern, the Republican candidate has worked at the Landfill for several years. He is dangerously unqualified to be the Treasurer. He has been deliberately unclear about his job title in interviews, (Foreman of Landfill, Supervisor of a division of Public Works, and “a long-time county employee” are three ways he has introduced himself in public). Is length of employment a credential? It simply indicates his status as a non-threatening member of the good old boys club. Why should citizens have to pay to train Vern Ruder to do what I already do? What does he have to offer that competes with me? If he wins, he will tell you how great things are, and will look at you blankly when something, inevitably, goes wrong. His investment credentials are obscure and questionable, along with the multiple ways he has described his educational background. We don’t sell bonds at the Treasury, so that credential is not useful. He did not specify if he graduated from NCK Tech, but listed once he was in Management, and another time, it was Marketing. Which is it? What is his job title? What is his educational background?&nbsp;It is ironic Vern Ruder cites “communication” as the biggest challenge to the Treasury 2021 onward. I am the first Treasurer to communicate with citizens. It is not I who lacks communication skills; communication is a two-way street. Since he brought it up, let’s look at his communication: he has been unclear in every facet of his communication with citizens about why he is running for Treasurer. He has spread rumors about my staff, when he knows nothing about what goes on in the Treasury. My staff are happy, and we have an enjoyable work environment. He says he will improve investments. I already have sound investments; it was the first sector I improved in 2017. He says he will decrease spending. That is not possible. I already decreased it. Vern brags he has a $1.2 million budget to run the Landfill. He has never presented to the Commission or citizens, line by line, as I have on my $515,000 budget for the Treasury. He spends without oversight, like most departments. He brags his budget is higher, as though that is a feather in his hat, but says he can come here and lower mine. Vern said he wants to buy kiosks for the Treasury to save money 2021 onward. He wants to cut employees and use technology, which was proven by Johnson County two years ago to be an unsuccessful hassle, and did not save money. I will keep your tax dollars local, supporting local jobs, not technological fads. &nbsp;Competing candidates Vern and Julie do not come close to offering you what I can. Julie has stayed silent. Vern’s obscure description of his resume deflected from the one thing everyone at the county knows: under his management, the Landfill burned down in 2019.&nbsp; With the negligence he displayed in his current position with the County, why let him slide into the Treasury and bring more havoc?&nbsp;Vern Ruder will work for the politicians; Treasurer Lisa Schlegel works for YOU. I want to continue to make my living working for you. 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. Advance-Vote at 718 Main Street before November 3, or vote at your polling place on election day.&nbsp;Lisa Schlegel, Ellis County Treasurer

LETTER: Schlegel outlines write-in re-election campaign

A short somber ceremony at the downtown Hays Fire Department Sunday was one of the few in-person tributes in observation of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, Oct. 3 and 4.

The coronavirus pandemic forced the <a href="https://www.firehero.org/">National Fallen Firefighters Foundation</a>&nbsp;at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md., to conduct its annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.firehero.org/events/memorial-weekend/about/bells-across-america/">Bells Across America </a>memorial ceremony online.

 Other such observations at fire stations across the country also went virtual because of COVID-19 concerns.

Although the public was not invited, Hays Firefighter Justin Choitz organized a local remembrance ceremony Sunday evening in front of the fire house on Main Street.

The tolling of a bell in a specific pattern represents a special message to firefighters, according to Choitz.

"The history of tolling the bell 3 times — 5 times each — comes before telephones, and [emergency] pagers and radios," Choitz said.&nbsp;

"The fire alarm pull boxes that used to be on the corners of streets in America&nbsp;— depending on the location&nbsp;— would tone out a specific tone to a specific fire&nbsp; station.

"And it became universally known that 5 tones with a short pause, 5 tones with another pause, followed up by 5 tones was to signify that there had been a line of duty death," he explained.

Participating in the Hays ceremony were two current firefighters in their dress uniforms and face masks, Lt. Tyler Brungardt and Firefighter Brandon Woods, along with two future firefighters, the young sons of Brungardt.

Noah Brungardt, wearing a T-shirt with "HFD" on the back in big red letters, helped pull the long rope for the final set of five bells, carefully counting each one on his fingers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The tolling of the five bells is for the 82 firefighters that we lost [nationally] in 2019," Choitz said.&nbsp;

Sitting on a portable trailer, the large silver bell that rang out 15 times was provided by Thomas More Prep-Marian school. The bell is used to rally school spirit during football games and other activities.&nbsp;

Choitz had invited several retired firefighters to join in the tribute but they declined, worried about COVID-19.

Two Hays firefighters have been killed in the line of duty. 

"In November 1919, there was a fuel oil fire downtown," Choitz said. "Several civilian spectators were killed along with two of our firefighters."

A memorial plaque to Stephen Tourtillot and Nichols Arnold is embedded in the north wall of the Main Street fire station.

United States Congress created the National Fallen&nbsp;Firefighters Foundation in 1992 to lead a nationwide effort to honor the memories of all U.S. firefighters who died in the line of duty and to provide support to their loved ones.

As part of this mission, each October the nonprofit foundation hosts&nbsp;the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, the official national tribute, in Emmitsburg, Md.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K5ryVTLtR4g"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA short somber ceremony at the downtown Hays Fire Department Sunday was one of the few in-person tributes in observation of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, Oct. 3 and 4.The coronavirus pandemic forced the <a href="https://www.firehero.org/">National Fallen Firefighters Foundation</a>&nbsp;at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md., to conduct its annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.firehero.org/events/memorial-weekend/about/bells-across-america/">Bells Across America </a>memorial ceremony online. Other such observations at fire stations across the country also went virtual because of COVID-19 concerns.Although the public was not invited, Hays Firefighter Justin Choitz organized a local remembrance ceremony Sunday evening in front of the fire house on Main Street.The tolling of a bell in a specific pattern represents a special message to firefighters, according to Choitz."The history of tolling the bell 3 times — 5 times each — comes before telephones, and [emergency] pagers and radios," Choitz said.&nbsp;"The fire alarm pull boxes that used to be on the corners of streets in America&nbsp;— depending on the location&nbsp;— would tone out a specific tone to a specific fire&nbsp; station."And it became universally known that 5 tones with a short pause, 5 tones with another pause, followed up by 5 tones was to signify that there had been a line of duty death," he explained.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601868566594.jpeg" alt="Practicing the rope pull prior to the Bells Across America ceremony Sunday at the Hays Fire Department." />
 <figcaption>Practicing the rope pull prior to the Bells Across America ceremony Sunday at the Hays Fire Department.</figcaption>
 </figure>Participating in the Hays ceremony were two current firefighters in their dress uniforms and face masks, Lt. Tyler Brungardt and Firefighter Brandon Woods, along with two future firefighters, the young sons of Brungardt.Noah Brungardt, wearing a T-shirt with "HFD" on the back in big red letters, helped pull the long rope for the final set of five bells, carefully counting each one on his fingers.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The tolling of the five bells is for the 82 firefighters that we lost [nationally] in 2019," Choitz said.&nbsp;Sitting on a portable trailer, the large silver bell that rang out 15 times was provided by Thomas More Prep-Marian school. The bell is used to rally school spirit during football games and other activities.&nbsp;Choitz had invited several retired firefighters to join in the tribute but they declined, worried about COVID-19.Two Hays firefighters have been killed in the line of duty. "In November 1919, there was a fuel oil fire downtown," Choitz said. "Several civilian spectators were killed along with two of our firefighters."A memorial plaque to Stephen Tourtillot and Nichols Arnold is embedded in the north wall of the Main Street fire station.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601868343186.jpeg" alt="Two Hays firefighters have been killed in the line of duty.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Two Hays firefighters have been killed in the line of duty.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>United States Congress created the National Fallen&nbsp;Firefighters Foundation in 1992 to lead a nationwide effort to honor the memories of all U.S. firefighters who died in the line of duty and to provide support to their loved ones.As part of this mission, each October the nonprofit foundation hosts&nbsp;the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, the official national tribute, in Emmitsburg, Md.

🎥  Hays FD observes National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend

 groundbreaking ceremony for the new ARC Park playground is scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday at Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest. 

A large crowd is expected. Masks and social distancing will be encouraged. 

The Hays Accessible Recreation Complex (ARC Park)
will provide safe, boundless play opportunities for individuals of all ages and all abilities in one accessible spot. There is not currently a fully accessible play
 space of this scope and size anywhere in western Kansas. 

Construction will begin on phase 1 — a 15,500-square-foot playground. The $750,000-project has been in development for two years by The Arc of Central Plains and was funded entirely from private donations
 within the community.&nbsp;

Outdoor play stimulates speech, cognition, gross motor skills, fine motor skills and social skills more efficiently
 than any other method of instruction. The play space also will promote self-empowerment and imaginative play for all kids, while allowing children with disabilities to play safely alongside peers.
 Construction of the playground is slated to finish in April. Dirt work, playground equipment, and concrete work will be installed before end of the year; however, the synthetic flooring is weather-contingent and can't be installed until the spring.


The ARC Park complex will eventually include phases 2 and 3 — an accessible recirculated splash pad and an all-ability turf baseball field, respectively. Fundraising continues
 for those features. To learn more about the project, visit <a href="http://www.haysarcpark.org/">www.HaysARCPark.org</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are so excited to start construction on the playground and to bring this to our wonderful community!
Thank you&nbsp;to everyone
 who has donated and supported the ARC Park," said Kathy McAdoo, executive director of The Arc of Central Plains.


For more than 50 years, The Arc of Central Plains has been committed to bringing enrichment and purpose to the lives of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
 through participation in activities, education, and lifelong inclusion. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601928879409.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted groundbreaking ceremony for the new ARC Park playground is scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday at Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest. A large crowd is expected. Masks and social distancing will be encouraged. The Hays Accessible Recreation Complex (ARC Park)
will provide safe, boundless play opportunities for individuals of all ages and all abilities in one accessible spot. There is not currently a fully accessible play
 space of this scope and size anywhere in western Kansas. Construction will begin on phase 1 — a 15,500-square-foot playground. The $750,000-project has been in development for two years by The Arc of Central Plains and was funded entirely from private donations
 within the community.&nbsp;Outdoor play stimulates speech, cognition, gross motor skills, fine motor skills and social skills more efficiently
 than any other method of instruction. The play space also will promote self-empowerment and imaginative play for all kids, while allowing children with disabilities to play safely alongside peers.
 Construction of the playground is slated to finish in April. Dirt work, playground equipment, and concrete work will be installed before end of the year; however, the synthetic flooring is weather-contingent and can't be installed until the spring.
The ARC Park complex will eventually include phases 2 and 3 — an accessible recirculated splash pad and an all-ability turf baseball field, respectively. Fundraising continues
 for those features. To learn more about the project, visit <a href="http://www.haysarcpark.org/">www.HaysARCPark.org</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;"We are so excited to start construction on the playground and to bring this to our wonderful community!
Thank you&nbsp;to everyone
 who has donated and supported the ARC Park," said Kathy McAdoo, executive director of The Arc of Central Plains.
For more than 50 years, The Arc of Central Plains has been committed to bringing enrichment and purpose to the lives of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
 through participation in activities, education, and lifelong inclusion.

ARC Park groundbreaking scheduled for Friday

By KARISSA NIEHOFF, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations, and BILL FAFLICK, Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused everyone to hit the pause button on life. During the stoppage and forced time away from routines, many people have come to appreciate the important things in life – family, friends and faith among others.&nbsp;

Still, the loss of some routines and regular activities hurt worse than others, namely last spring when high school sports and performing arts were shut down. Millions of students, coaches, parents and fans quickly began to realize the privilege of involvement in these education-based programs in schools.&nbsp;

Now, slowly but surely, high school sports and performing arts are on their way back into schools in Kansas and across the country. While things are different – with social distancing, universal masking protocols in place – there is a resounding feeling of thankfulness that some degree of normalcy is returning.

As a result, this year’s celebration of National High School Activities Month will be like none other in the 40-year history of the event. Since 1980, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and its member state associations have promoted the values of high school activity programs during the month of October, but this year will be extra special.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kicking off the month-long focus October 4-10 is National Sportsmanship, Fan Appreciation and Public-Address Announcers Week.

Hopefully, one of the silver linings of the pandemic is that parents and other fans are more grateful for any opportunity to attend contests this year and positively support student participants. At this time last year, there were numerous incidents of inappropriate adult behavior at high school events – mostly directed at officials.&nbsp;

This year, in addition to being respectful of officials, being a good fan involves supporting participants by social distancing and wearing a mask. Attending a high school contest is even more of a privilege, and players, coaches and officials need positive and encouraging support.

The week of October 11-17 is National Performing Arts Activities and Local State High School Associations Week.

More than four million high school students are involved in speech, debate, music, band and theatre activities each year. And the results of an aerosol study conducted by the NFHS and 125 other organizations show that if schools are in session, these activities can be safely conducted by implementing a mitigation strategy focused on Masks-Distance-Time-Air Flow-Hygiene.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Competing on the debate team or playing in the marching band or acting on stage as a part of the theatre team help students develop critical-thinking skills. They also learn to be better communicators and tend to be good listeners – qualities that are essential for success in life and in their chosen careers.

This week is also set aside to recognize the 51 NFHS member state associations, which have been working overtime for the past seven months with state government, health and education leaders to outline a safe return to activities.

The week of October 18-24 is National Coaches, Advisors, Officials and Sponsors Week.

High school coaches are playing an even larger role this year in connecting with their athletes – whether that connection is virtual or in-person. In some situations, a coach may be the most significant mentor in a student-athlete’s life, so keeping that relationship intact is paramount. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The nationwide shortage of officials has been exacerbated by the pandemic as some officials have decided not to return. To help with this critical situation, the NFHS is continuing its #BecomeAnOfficial campaign. Individuals can get started on a career in officiating by clicking on the following link:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.highschoolofficials.com/">www.highschoolofficials.com</a>

The week of October 25-31 is National Community Service/Youth Awareness Week. Schools across the country need financial support from communities due to loss of revenue from the pandemic.&nbsp;

Whether as a participant, parent, coach, official, teacher, administrator, community supporter or general fan, millions are invested in the greatest education-based programs in the country – high school sports and performing arts. In Kansas, and throughout the rest of our nation, we encourage support of these programs more than ever during National High School Activities Month.&nbsp;

More information on National High School Activities Month is available on the NFHS website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nfhs.org/">www.NFHS.org/</a>HSActivitiesMonth.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598357043542.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA NIEHOFF, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations, and BILL FAFLICK, Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities AssociationThe COVID-19 pandemic has caused everyone to hit the pause button on life. During the stoppage and forced time away from routines, many people have come to appreciate the important things in life – family, friends and faith among others.&nbsp;Still, the loss of some routines and regular activities hurt worse than others, namely last spring when high school sports and performing arts were shut down. Millions of students, coaches, parents and fans quickly began to realize the privilege of involvement in these education-based programs in schools.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Now, slowly but surely, high school sports and performing arts are on their way back into schools in Kansas and across the country. While things are different – with social distancing, universal masking protocols in place – there is a resounding feeling of thankfulness that some degree of normalcy is returning.As a result, this year’s celebration of National High School Activities Month will be like none other in the 40-year history of the event. Since 1980, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and its member state associations have promoted the values of high school activity programs during the month of October, but this year will be extra special.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kicking off the month-long focus October 4-10 is National Sportsmanship, Fan Appreciation and Public-Address Announcers Week.Hopefully, one of the silver linings of the pandemic is that parents and other fans are more grateful for any opportunity to attend contests this year and positively support student participants. At this time last year, there were numerous incidents of inappropriate adult behavior at high school events – mostly directed at officials.&nbsp;This year, in addition to being respectful of officials, being a good fan involves supporting participants by social distancing and wearing a mask. Attending a high school contest is even more of a privilege, and players, coaches and officials need positive and encouraging support.The week of October 11-17 is National Performing Arts Activities and Local State High School Associations Week.More than four million high school students are involved in speech, debate, music, band and theatre activities each year. And the results of an aerosol study conducted by the NFHS and 125 other organizations show that if schools are in session, these activities can be safely conducted by implementing a mitigation strategy focused on Masks-Distance-Time-Air Flow-Hygiene.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Competing on the debate team or playing in the marching band or acting on stage as a part of the theatre team help students develop critical-thinking skills. They also learn to be better communicators and tend to be good listeners – qualities that are essential for success in life and in their chosen careers.This week is also set aside to recognize the 51 NFHS member state associations, which have been working overtime for the past seven months with state government, health and education leaders to outline a safe return to activities.The week of October 18-24 is National Coaches, Advisors, Officials and Sponsors Week.High school coaches are playing an even larger role this year in connecting with their athletes – whether that connection is virtual or in-person. In some situations, a coach may be the most significant mentor in a student-athlete’s life, so keeping that relationship intact is paramount. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The nationwide shortage of officials has been exacerbated by the pandemic as some officials have decided not to return. To help with this critical situation, the NFHS is continuing its #BecomeAnOfficial campaign. Individuals can get started on a career in officiating by clicking on the following link:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.highschoolofficials.com/">www.highschoolofficials.com</a>The week of October 25-31 is National Community Service/Youth Awareness Week. Schools across the country need financial support from communities due to loss of revenue from the pandemic.&nbsp;Whether as a participant, parent, coach, official, teacher, administrator, community supporter or general fan, millions are invested in the greatest education-based programs in the country – high school sports and performing arts. In Kansas, and throughout the rest of our nation, we encourage support of these programs more than ever during National High School Activities Month.&nbsp;More information on National High School Activities Month is available on the NFHS website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nfhs.org/">www.NFHS.org/</a>HSActivitiesMonth.&nbsp;

COLUMN: Celebrating return to play

A suspect in a 2014 rape in Hays made a first appearance in
Ellis County district Monday.

Cody Schultz, 32, Victoria, made the appearance via a Zoom teleconferencing
call from the Ellis County jail before 23rd Judicial District Chief
Judge Glenn Braun.

He was represented by court-appointed attorney Joe Shepack.

He is currently being held in the Ellis County jail in lieu of a $500,000 bond.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e010d1c57544d3fe90e82e3">Schultz became a suspect in the case after being arrested for sex-related crimes alleged to have occurred in 2019 involving two females under the age of
14 that led to DNA samples being run through the Kansas Bureau of
Investigations database. The sample returned as a potential match in the 2014
case.</a>

During the appearance, Schultz acknowledged he understood his
rights in the case and had it explained by Braun that, if convicted, he
faces 147 to 653 months imprisonment.

Preliminary hearings for both cases are set for Dec. 15. The first hearing will begin at 10
a.m. The second will follow immediately after.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostA suspect in a 2014 rape in Hays made a first appearance in
Ellis County district Monday.Cody Schultz, 32, Victoria, made the appearance via a Zoom teleconferencing
call from the Ellis County jail before 23rd Judicial District Chief
Judge Glenn Braun.He was represented by court-appointed attorney Joe Shepack.He is currently being held in the Ellis County jail in lieu of a $500,000 bond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577132104050.png" alt="Cody Schultz" />
 <figcaption>Cody Schultz</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e010d1c57544d3fe90e82e3">Schultz became a suspect in the case after being arrested for sex-related crimes alleged to have occurred in 2019 involving two females under the age of
14 that led to DNA samples being run through the Kansas Bureau of
Investigations database. The sample returned as a potential match in the 2014
case.</a>During the appearance, Schultz acknowledged he understood his
rights in the case and had it explained by Braun that, if convicted, he
faces 147 to 653 months imprisonment.Preliminary hearings for both cases are set for Dec. 15. The first hearing will begin at 10
a.m. The second will follow immediately after.

Suspect in Hays rape case makes first court appearance

Crude futures prices bounced back on Monday, gaining six percent, after a big sell-off Friday in which prices drifted below $37. By midday Monday, the benchmark Nymex contract was up $2.37 to $39.42 per barrel. London Brent rose to $41.50 per barrel. CHS in McPherson dropped its prices by $1.75 on Friday. Kansas Common starts the week at $27.25 per barrel. The monthly average for the Kansas benchmark crude dipped below $30 a barrel in September for the first time since June. Kansas regulators reported a small increase in the number of intent-to-drill notices filed in Kansas. Ellis County notched six new intents last month, Barton and Stafford counties each report one. According to the Kansas Corporation Commission the total statewide is 50 intents for the month of September, up from 38 in August. So far this year, Kansas operators have filed 393 such notices, down from 842 a year ago.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports three active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, down one for the week, and four west of Wichita, also down one. Drilling is underway on one lease in Ellis County. Baker Hughes reports 266 active drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, an increase from last week of six oil rigs. The count in New Mexico was up three. Regulators signed off on just six new drilling permits in Kansas last week, four of them east of Wichita and two in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. There are 321 permits for drilling at new locations on file so far this year across the state compared to nearly 800 through the third quarter of 2019. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 14 newly-completed wells across Kansas last week, with ten new completions in the eastern half of the state, and four in Western Kansas. That's 669 so far this year compared to well over 1,000 completions by the end of the third quarter last year. Domestic crude inventories dropped by two million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of just over 492 million barrels, which is about 13% above the five-year seasonal average. The government reported a slight increase in U.S. crude production last week. The Energy Information Administration says domestic output increased 36,000 barrels per day over the week before to 10.74 million barrels per day. Imports last week were down 45,000 barrels per day. EIA says the four-week average is nearly 22% less than the same four-week period last year. In its yearly report on natural gas production, consumption and exports, the government says the U.S. set records in all three last year. The Energy Information Administration says dry natural gas production increased by ten percent, consumption was up three percent, and exports were up by nearly 30%. The re-entry of Libya into the oil marketplace continues. Two weeks into an easing of a blockade by eastern forces, Reuters reports the OPEC member is seeing a nearly three-fold ramp up in oil production, which reached 270,000 barrels per day. Exports have doubled and are expected to rise even more as they open more terminals. The former head of the Libyan bank responsible for managing the country's oil revenues is behind bars amid corruption allegations. Bloomberg reports a state prosecutor is investigating some risky investments that cost the bank $1.6 billion, as well as efforts to falsify the bank's profits and mismanage funds. The price tag for plugging and cleaning up abandoned oil and gas wells could soon reach staggering proportions. Reporting in the Houston Chronicle suggests taxpayers could be left on the hook for plugging and cleaning up so-called "orphan wells." &nbsp;The expense could reach $117 Billion in Texas alone. There are some 3.8 million unplugged oil and gas wells nationwide, including more than 783,000 in Texas. A Houston company is hoping to connect three Texas crude-oil pipelines into a large export facility. Max Midstream has bought the Seahawk Pipeline and Terminal at the Port of Calhoun southwest of Houston. They plan to connect to both the Eagle Ford and Permian basins to transport up to 20 million barrels a month. In a news release, the company said exports could begin with completion of the first phase of the project late this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude futures prices bounced back on Monday, gaining six percent, after a big sell-off Friday in which prices drifted below $37. By midday Monday, the benchmark Nymex contract was up $2.37 to $39.42 per barrel. London Brent rose to $41.50 per barrel. CHS in McPherson dropped its prices by $1.75 on Friday. Kansas Common starts the week at $27.25 per barrel. The monthly average for the Kansas benchmark crude dipped below $30 a barrel in September for the first time since June. Kansas regulators reported a small increase in the number of intent-to-drill notices filed in Kansas. Ellis County notched six new intents last month, Barton and Stafford counties each report one. According to the Kansas Corporation Commission the total statewide is 50 intents for the month of September, up from 38 in August. So far this year, Kansas operators have filed 393 such notices, down from 842 a year ago.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports three active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, down one for the week, and four west of Wichita, also down one. Drilling is underway on one lease in Ellis County. Baker Hughes reports 266 active drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, an increase from last week of six oil rigs. The count in New Mexico was up three. Regulators signed off on just six new drilling permits in Kansas last week, four of them east of Wichita and two in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. There are 321 permits for drilling at new locations on file so far this year across the state compared to nearly 800 through the third quarter of 2019. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 14 newly-completed wells across Kansas last week, with ten new completions in the eastern half of the state, and four in Western Kansas. That's 669 so far this year compared to well over 1,000 completions by the end of the third quarter last year. Domestic crude inventories dropped by two million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of just over 492 million barrels, which is about 13% above the five-year seasonal average. The government reported a slight increase in U.S. crude production last week. The Energy Information Administration says domestic output increased 36,000 barrels per day over the week before to 10.74 million barrels per day. Imports last week were down 45,000 barrels per day. EIA says the four-week average is nearly 22% less than the same four-week period last year. In its yearly report on natural gas production, consumption and exports, the government says the U.S. set records in all three last year. The Energy Information Administration says dry natural gas production increased by ten percent, consumption was up three percent, and exports were up by nearly 30%. The re-entry of Libya into the oil marketplace continues. Two weeks into an easing of a blockade by eastern forces, Reuters reports the OPEC member is seeing a nearly three-fold ramp up in oil production, which reached 270,000 barrels per day. Exports have doubled and are expected to rise even more as they open more terminals. The former head of the Libyan bank responsible for managing the country's oil revenues is behind bars amid corruption allegations. Bloomberg reports a state prosecutor is investigating some risky investments that cost the bank $1.6 billion, as well as efforts to falsify the bank's profits and mismanage funds. The price tag for plugging and cleaning up abandoned oil and gas wells could soon reach staggering proportions. Reporting in the Houston Chronicle suggests taxpayers could be left on the hook for plugging and cleaning up so-called "orphan wells." &nbsp;The expense could reach $117 Billion in Texas alone. There are some 3.8 million unplugged oil and gas wells nationwide, including more than 783,000 in Texas. A Houston company is hoping to connect three Texas crude-oil pipelines into a large export facility. Max Midstream has bought the Seahawk Pipeline and Terminal at the Port of Calhoun southwest of Houston. They plan to connect to both the Eagle Ford and Permian basins to transport up to 20 million barrels a month. In a news release, the company said exports could begin with completion of the first phase of the project late this year.

News From the Oil Patch: Six new intent-to-drill notices in Ellis Co.

OK, there weren’t parades or bells ringing on Oct. 1, the one-year anniversary of Kansas Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart’s decision that out-of-state sellers of goods into Kansas need to register with the state and pay sales taxes on items that we order online or over the phone and have delivered to us here in Kansas.

Nope, didn’t hear a single bell or whistle, but that sales tax registration and payment have made the state tens of millions of dollars on previously tax-free sales. Some of that money went into the state treasury, some went into the bank accounts of cities and counties with local sales taxes.

Oh, and even if you don’t track how much sales tax revenue (they call it “compensating use tax” for some obscure reason) that Burghart brought into the state, it has the effect of boosting Kansas small businesses which collect sales tax on everything you carry out of the store.

Those previously un-sales-taxed purchases from out of state essentially cut the price you paid&nbsp; when you bought a shirt or shoes or…whatever…from an out-of-state merchant, who shipped it to you without a sales tax.

Buy that shirt in Kansas, and you pay sales taxes ranging from just the 6.5 percent state tax to as much as 10.6 percent state/local total sales tax in Shawnee Mission. That’s a pretty big price boost and it’s what sent many Kansans to the internet instead of downtown to make their purchases…

That out-of-state sales tax collection essentially evened-up prices, removing a price advantage for out-of-state merchants while the local stores saw their sales shrink. It’s a good thing for the locals, evening-up the prices so that they can be competitive not just for the price of goods sold, but at the bottom of the ticket when the sales taxes are added in.

Oh, yes, there was that little scrap last year, when at the request of some conservative legislators Attorney General Derek Schmidt said in an official opinion that he believed that Burkhart didn’t have specific authority to make those out-of-state sellers register with Kansas and collect and remit back to the state those sales taxes. That 18-page opinion didn’t go anywhere. Burkhart didn’t think up anything new, he just started actively enforcing the state law on sales tax.&nbsp;

The Legislature didn’t revoke the authority of Burkhart to actually enforce the law that had been on the books for decades and, last session, there weren’t many lawmakers who during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic were interested in reducing state revenues.

Now, we don’t know the full year’s effect of that “compensating use tax” on the state budget, but there’s talk in the $50 million or higher range for the state, and some smaller amount for those local sales taxes. We’re waiting for Revenue folks to total it up on Nov. 1, when the first 12 months of payments are calculated.

Practically, this year some of those Internet or over-the-phone purchases by Kansans were sparked by the pandemic, when some local “nonessential” stores were closed by the governor. And when that went away, there are still Kansans who don’t want to shop in crowded stores for fear of picking up the virus. But out-of-state purchases by Kansans have increased and that’s a good reason that the compensating use tax is bringing money into the state.

What’s the future of that Burkhart order? Well, we’re coming into a year when state revenues for a whole lot of reasons are likely to be lower than planned for, and there are going to be bills for the state to pay.

We’ll see just what Burkhart’s order did to get those bills paid, won’t we?

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141234707.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>OK, there weren’t parades or bells ringing on Oct. 1, the one-year anniversary of Kansas Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart’s decision that out-of-state sellers of goods into Kansas need to register with the state and pay sales taxes on items that we order online or over the phone and have delivered to us here in Kansas.Nope, didn’t hear a single bell or whistle, but that sales tax registration and payment have made the state tens of millions of dollars on previously tax-free sales. Some of that money went into the state treasury, some went into the bank accounts of cities and counties with local sales taxes.Oh, and even if you don’t track how much sales tax revenue (they call it “compensating use tax” for some obscure reason) that Burghart brought into the state, it has the effect of boosting Kansas small businesses which collect sales tax on everything you carry out of the store.Those previously un-sales-taxed purchases from out of state essentially cut the price you paid&nbsp; when you bought a shirt or shoes or…whatever…from an out-of-state merchant, who shipped it to you without a sales tax.Buy that shirt in Kansas, and you pay sales taxes ranging from just the 6.5 percent state tax to as much as 10.6 percent state/local total sales tax in Shawnee Mission. That’s a pretty big price boost and it’s what sent many Kansans to the internet instead of downtown to make their purchases…That out-of-state sales tax collection essentially evened-up prices, removing a price advantage for out-of-state merchants while the local stores saw their sales shrink. It’s a good thing for the locals, evening-up the prices so that they can be competitive not just for the price of goods sold, but at the bottom of the ticket when the sales taxes are added in.Oh, yes, there was that little scrap last year, when at the request of some conservative legislators Attorney General Derek Schmidt said in an official opinion that he believed that Burkhart didn’t have specific authority to make those out-of-state sellers register with Kansas and collect and remit back to the state those sales taxes. That 18-page opinion didn’t go anywhere. Burkhart didn’t think up anything new, he just started actively enforcing the state law on sales tax.&nbsp;The Legislature didn’t revoke the authority of Burkhart to actually enforce the law that had been on the books for decades and, last session, there weren’t many lawmakers who during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic were interested in reducing state revenues.Now, we don’t know the full year’s effect of that “compensating use tax” on the state budget, but there’s talk in the $50 million or higher range for the state, and some smaller amount for those local sales taxes. We’re waiting for Revenue folks to total it up on Nov. 1, when the first 12 months of payments are calculated.Practically, this year some of those Internet or over-the-phone purchases by Kansans were sparked by the pandemic, when some local “nonessential” stores were closed by the governor. And when that went away, there are still Kansans who don’t want to shop in crowded stores for fear of picking up the virus. But out-of-state purchases by Kansans have increased and that’s a good reason that the compensating use tax is bringing money into the state.What’s the future of that Burkhart order? Well, we’re coming into a year when state revenues for a whole lot of reasons are likely to be lower than planned for, and there are going to be bills for the state to pay.We’ll see just what Burkhart’s order did to get those bills paid, won’t we?Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

HAWVER: Online sales tax change brings needed revenues to Kan.

With the maiden name of Meyer and married name of Krug you might guess that our family has a rich German heritage. I have always enjoyed learning about the foods that are tied to various cultures and when you think of German foods, one that comes to mind is sauerkraut. Did you know that sauerkraut is easy to make in your home kitchen so that you can enjoy it often?

The past year I have been busy learning more about the fermentation of vegetables. I submitted a proposal to write a Fact Sheet for K-State Research and Extension titled, “Taking a New Look at Fermented Foods.” I had been seeing articles in several sources and heard a conference speaker touting the health benefits of eating a small amount of fermented foods often. Then I noticed a fermentation kit on the shelf at our local hardware store. The kit made fermenting vegetables in wide mouth canning jars in small batches sound like a fun thing to try.&nbsp;

The practice of fermenting foods has been around for thousands of years. There are many claims to how fermentation was discovered, but now, every culture with access to salt, makes some kind of fermented food. The simplicity of this food preservation method coupled with its unique flavors and reported health benefits has made fermenting food popular worldwide. Today there seems to be a renewed interest in preparing fermented foods at home.

Many foods and beverages are created through the process of fermentation: sourdough bread, yogurt, beer, wine, sauerkraut, and kombucha to name a few. The fact sheet I wrote focused on the fermentation of vegetables, known as lactic acid fermentation. Fermentation is a process where the natural bacteria found in fresh vegetables utilize the carbohydrates to reproduce and excrete lactic acid, which preserves the vegetables and creates a characteristic tangy flavor.

I would love for you to join me at one of the public educational programs I am scheduled to present during October. My presentation will include sharing the techniques for making sauerkraut and kimchi successfully in a wide mouth canning jar. Kimchi is a delicious Korean condiment that is fun to make. I will also discuss the health benefits of including fermented foods in your daily menu.&nbsp;

The free educational programs are set for: Wednesday, October 14th, at noon, at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street; Thursday, October 22nd, at 5:30 PM, at the Extension office meeting room at 601 Main Street, Hays; and Friday, October 23rd, at 1:00 PM, at the Great Bend Senior Center. I hope to see you soon!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent, in the Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent, in the Cottonwood District. " />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent, in the Cottonwood District. </figcaption>
 </figure>With the maiden name of Meyer and married name of Krug you might guess that our family has a rich German heritage. I have always enjoyed learning about the foods that are tied to various cultures and when you think of German foods, one that comes to mind is sauerkraut. Did you know that sauerkraut is easy to make in your home kitchen so that you can enjoy it often?The past year I have been busy learning more about the fermentation of vegetables. I submitted a proposal to write a Fact Sheet for K-State Research and Extension titled, “Taking a New Look at Fermented Foods.” I had been seeing articles in several sources and heard a conference speaker touting the health benefits of eating a small amount of fermented foods often. Then I noticed a fermentation kit on the shelf at our local hardware store. The kit made fermenting vegetables in wide mouth canning jars in small batches sound like a fun thing to try.&nbsp;The practice of fermenting foods has been around for thousands of years. There are many claims to how fermentation was discovered, but now, every culture with access to salt, makes some kind of fermented food. The simplicity of this food preservation method coupled with its unique flavors and reported health benefits has made fermenting food popular worldwide. Today there seems to be a renewed interest in preparing fermented foods at home.Many foods and beverages are created through the process of fermentation: sourdough bread, yogurt, beer, wine, sauerkraut, and kombucha to name a few. The fact sheet I wrote focused on the fermentation of vegetables, known as lactic acid fermentation. Fermentation is a process where the natural bacteria found in fresh vegetables utilize the carbohydrates to reproduce and excrete lactic acid, which preserves the vegetables and creates a characteristic tangy flavor.I would love for you to join me at one of the public educational programs I am scheduled to present during October. My presentation will include sharing the techniques for making sauerkraut and kimchi successfully in a wide mouth canning jar. Kimchi is a delicious Korean condiment that is fun to make. I will also discuss the health benefits of including fermented foods in your daily menu.&nbsp;The free educational programs are set for: Wednesday, October 14th, at noon, at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street; Thursday, October 22nd, at 5:30 PM, at the Extension office meeting room at 601 Main Street, Hays; and Friday, October 23rd, at 1:00 PM, at the Great Bend Senior Center. I hope to see you soon!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent, in the Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Taking a new look at fermented foods

Ellis High School announced the 2020 Homecoming King and Queen, as well as royalty.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601924622524.jpeg" alt="Back row, from left: Candidate Brady Frickey, son of Stacy &amp; Brad Frickey; King Daniel Eck, son of Geoff &amp; Mindy Eck; Candidate Tegan Cain, son of Brent &amp; Darci Cain. Front row, from left: Candidate Abigail North, daughter of Travis &amp; Ava North; Flower Girl Ainsley Haas, daughter of Danny &amp; Lacie Haas; Queen Grace Eck, daughter of Mark &amp; Sarah Eck; Crown Bearer Theodore Rivera, son of Justin &amp; Sophia Hendrickson; Candidate Morgan Bittel, daughter of Brady Bittel and Tammy Rudd." />
 <figcaption>Back row, from left: Candidate Brady Frickey, son of Stacy &amp; Brad Frickey; King Daniel Eck, son of Geoff &amp; Mindy Eck; Candidate Tegan Cain, son of Brent &amp; Darci Cain. Front row, from left: Candidate Abigail North, daughter of Travis &amp; Ava North; Flower Girl Ainsley Haas, daughter of Danny &amp; Lacie Haas; Queen Grace Eck, daughter of Mark &amp; Sarah Eck; Crown Bearer Theodore Rivera, son of Justin &amp; Sophia Hendrickson; Candidate Morgan Bittel, daughter of Brady Bittel and Tammy Rudd.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis High School announced the 2020 Homecoming King and Queen, as well as royalty.Daniel Eck was selected King, and Grace Eck was selected Queen.Riddle's Jewelry donated the 2020 Homecoming queen's crown.— Submitted