Most cattle producers will agree that hauling feed and delivering hay to the cattle in the winter can be labor intensive and expensive. Experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute point to grazing crop residues as one option to reduce feed expenses and minimize daily labor with proper planning and regular monitoring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Many producers have made grazing crop residues part of their management strategy because of the low winter feed costs associated with it,” said veterinarian Bob Larson. In Kansas, these residues are typically corn and sorghum. &nbsp;&nbsp;

To be successful, Larson said producers must plan for a water source, which may take extra labor to deliver it to the field where cattle are grazing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“A lot of times there isn’t a pond on the crop field, so you have to haul out a tank in a way that doesn’t tear up the field,” Larson said, adding that producers need to plan for the cattle congregating around the water source and potentially damaging the ground. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Another step in preparing the field for gazing is making sure there is adequate fence to keep the cattle contained, said Bob Weaber, beef cattle specialist and head of the Northeast Kansas Research and Extension Center. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Many of these fields are leased ground and they don’t always have good perimeter fencing on them,” Weaber said. “It isn’t uncommon to see cattle out grazing on stalks with a single-wire strand of electric fence surrounding them.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Weaber said it is especially important to check electric fence often so cows don’t get out, and he stressed the importance of having a reliable fence charger.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nutritionally speaking, Larson and Weaber agreed that cattle often select plant leaves and fallen corn ears when they first arrive on the field.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The leaves and fallen ears hold a higher quality energy content as compared to the stalks,” Larson said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

To manage the crop residue resource, Weaber advised producers follow strip grazing protocols.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Strip grazing allows producers to monitor how much of the field has been grazed and forces the cows to clean up a section before moving them off,” Weaber said, noting that it also allows producers to assess the body condition of the animals in the herd to make sure their nutritional needs are being met. &nbsp;&nbsp;

If strip grazing isn’t an option, Larson said cattle producers may need to consider additional supplementation as the winter months pass by.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The longer you leave cattle on crop residues, the quality of what they are consuming decreases while at the same time the nutritional demands for gestating, spring-calving cows goes up,” Larson said. “In that case, you may need to increase the protein supplementation as the season progresses.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Most cattle producers will agree that hauling feed and delivering hay to the cattle in the winter can be labor intensive and expensive. Experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute point to grazing crop residues as one option to reduce feed expenses and minimize daily labor with proper planning and regular monitoring.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many producers have made grazing crop residues part of their management strategy because of the low winter feed costs associated with it,” said veterinarian Bob Larson. In Kansas, these residues are typically corn and sorghum. &nbsp;&nbsp;To be successful, Larson said producers must plan for a water source, which may take extra labor to deliver it to the field where cattle are grazing. &nbsp;&nbsp;“A lot of times there isn’t a pond on the crop field, so you have to haul out a tank in a way that doesn’t tear up the field,” Larson said, adding that producers need to plan for the cattle congregating around the water source and potentially damaging the ground. &nbsp;&nbsp;Another step in preparing the field for gazing is making sure there is adequate fence to keep the cattle contained, said Bob Weaber, beef cattle specialist and head of the Northeast Kansas Research and Extension Center. &nbsp;&nbsp;“Many of these fields are leased ground and they don’t always have good perimeter fencing on them,” Weaber said. “It isn’t uncommon to see cattle out grazing on stalks with a single-wire strand of electric fence surrounding them.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Weaber said it is especially important to check electric fence often so cows don’t get out, and he stressed the importance of having a reliable fence charger.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nutritionally speaking, Larson and Weaber agreed that cattle often select plant leaves and fallen corn ears when they first arrive on the field.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The leaves and fallen ears hold a higher quality energy content as compared to the stalks,” Larson said. &nbsp;&nbsp;To manage the crop residue resource, Weaber advised producers follow strip grazing protocols.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Strip grazing allows producers to monitor how much of the field has been grazed and forces the cows to clean up a section before moving them off,” Weaber said, noting that it also allows producers to assess the body condition of the animals in the herd to make sure their nutritional needs are being met. &nbsp;&nbsp;If strip grazing isn’t an option, Larson said cattle producers may need to consider additional supplementation as the winter months pass by.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The longer you leave cattle on crop residues, the quality of what they are consuming decreases while at the same time the nutritional demands for gestating, spring-calving cows goes up,” Larson said. “In that case, you may need to increase the protein supplementation as the season progresses.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: Saving costs during winter cattle feeding

TOPEKA&nbsp;–Governor Laura Kelly has announced the introduction of the new Broadband Acceleration Grant Program to expand broadband access to rural and underserved communities across the state. This year marks the first time in Kansas history that there has been a concerted, statewide, bipartisan effort to fund increased broadband access.

Over the next ten years, the program seeks to invest $85 million toward bridging the digital divide in Kansas thanks to broadband modernization funding provided through the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE). As the result of swift legislative action, $5 million will be available annually over the next three years, with $10 million annually made available over the following seven years.

“These grants are a critical part of my administration’s work to provide underserved Kansans with the high speed internet they need to compete economically and to improve access to health, education, and commercial tools,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“We are working quickly to ensure our communities, no matter their zip code, are adequately equipped for prosperity and growth, as Kansas continues to rebuild its foundation.”

A maximum of $1 million per grant will go toward funding projects that provide access to high quality, reliable broadband throughout Kansas, with priority given to applications that address unserved areas, economically distressed communities, and areas of compelling need.

“The Office of Rural Prosperity has engaged with thousands of Kansans, and one thing we hear time and time again is that expanding broadband would be a blessing for their communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers said.&nbsp;“Governor Kelly and her administration as a whole are committed to delivering the resources rural Kansans need.”

Broadband Acceleration grants will specifically assist with projects that address priorities for unserved, economically distressed, and service areas with compelling needs.

“These grants will make the difference for so many communities without access to broadband,”&nbsp;Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“We’re looking to assist innovative, forward-thinking organizations and projects through this program, in order to ensure that Kansas communities aren’t just catching up but are pushing forward into the future.”

Applicants are expected to engage community leaders and stakeholders in developing projects that are strategic, scalable, and bridge critical access gaps to support the quality of life considerations and economic viability for Kansas citizens and communities.

“These grants will be very complementary with the work we have undertaken through the SPARK-funded Connectivity Emergency Response Grant projects, which will be completed by year-end,” said Stanley Adams, director of the Office of Broadband Development at the Kansas Department of Commerce.

 “Accelerating broadband deployment is critical for all of us, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and I’m grateful to Governor Kelly for her commitment to our work in broadband development. This new grant program will be a powerful tool in the ongoing mission to get Kansas fully connected.”

The application window will open at 4 p.m. December 7, 2020, with intent to apply due on December 11, 2020, and applications due by noon on January 7, 2021. Broadband Acceleration grant program guidelines and information are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDExMjUuMzExNTA4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAxLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cua2Fuc2FzY29tbWVyY2UuZ292JTJGcHJvZ3JhbSUyRmNvbW11bml0eS1wcm9ncmFtcyUyRmJyb2FkYmFuZC1hY2NlbGVyYXRpb24tZ3JhbnQlMkYmZGF0YT0wNCU3QzAxJTdDS3lsZS5GcmVlc2UlNDBrcy5nb3YlN0MzMDg1YWQyZTQ0YzM0ZGYyZjQwNjA4ZDg5MThlNjRmMCU3Q2RjYWU4MTAxYzkyZDQ4MGNiYzQzYzY3NjFjY2NjYzVhJTdDMCU3QzAlN0M2Mzc0MTkzODgwNDMwMjAwNjMlN0NVbmtub3duJTdDVFdGcGJHWnNiM2Q4ZXlKV0lqb2lNQzR3TGpBd01EQWlMQ0pRSWpvaVYybHVNeklpTENKQlRpSTZJazFoYVd3aUxDSlhWQ0k2TW4wJTNEJTdDMTAwMCZzZGF0YT0zRlpwa1h4bXo2eTJUakthVDRHRUJBVEJZMDd3eDZwZXZaSm9ScUJMY3FFJTNEJnJlc2VydmVkPTAifQ.4NE-_Fi3_qlQeg9OgtW5FI-FihJ4-u-UxCVpz1bJKRc/s/1303135927/br/90612413059-l" target="_blank">this link</a>.

A grant application workshop webinar will be offered by the Office of Broadband Development on December 9 at 10:30 a.m. for entities interested in applying for the grant.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pk48JNhuXkuFpVNem_aqCKA4f4uWm86B31gHPEK3GjM/s/1303135927/br/90612413059-l" target="_blank">Those interested in participating can sign up here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606345559018.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>OFFICE OF GOV.TOPEKA&nbsp;–Governor Laura Kelly has announced the introduction of the new Broadband Acceleration Grant Program to expand broadband access to rural and underserved communities across the state. This year marks the first time in Kansas history that there has been a concerted, statewide, bipartisan effort to fund increased broadband access.Over the next ten years, the program seeks to invest $85 million toward bridging the digital divide in Kansas thanks to broadband modernization funding provided through the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE). As the result of swift legislative action, $5 million will be available annually over the next three years, with $10 million annually made available over the following seven years.“These grants are a critical part of my administration’s work to provide underserved Kansans with the high speed internet they need to compete economically and to improve access to health, education, and commercial tools,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“We are working quickly to ensure our communities, no matter their zip code, are adequately equipped for prosperity and growth, as Kansas continues to rebuild its foundation.”A maximum of $1 million per grant will go toward funding projects that provide access to high quality, reliable broadband throughout Kansas, with priority given to applications that address unserved areas, economically distressed communities, and areas of compelling need.“The Office of Rural Prosperity has engaged with thousands of Kansans, and one thing we hear time and time again is that expanding broadband would be a blessing for their communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers said.&nbsp;“Governor Kelly and her administration as a whole are committed to delivering the resources rural Kansans need.”Broadband Acceleration grants will specifically assist with projects that address priorities for unserved, economically distressed, and service areas with compelling needs.“These grants will make the difference for so many communities without access to broadband,”&nbsp;Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“We’re looking to assist innovative, forward-thinking organizations and projects through this program, in order to ensure that Kansas communities aren’t just catching up but are pushing forward into the future.”Applicants are expected to engage community leaders and stakeholders in developing projects that are strategic, scalable, and bridge critical access gaps to support the quality of life considerations and economic viability for Kansas citizens and communities.“These grants will be very complementary with the work we have undertaken through the SPARK-funded Connectivity Emergency Response Grant projects, which will be completed by year-end,” said Stanley Adams, director of the Office of Broadband Development at the Kansas Department of Commerce. “Accelerating broadband deployment is critical for all of us, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and I’m grateful to Governor Kelly for her commitment to our work in broadband development. This new grant program will be a powerful tool in the ongoing mission to get Kansas fully connected.”The application window will open at 4 p.m. December 7, 2020, with intent to apply due on December 11, 2020, and applications due by noon on January 7, 2021. Broadband Acceleration grant program guidelines and information are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.4NE-_Fi3_qlQeg9OgtW5FI-FihJ4-u-UxCVpz1bJKRc/s/1303135927/br/90612413059-l" target="_blank">this link</a>.A grant application workshop webinar will be offered by the Office of Broadband Development on December 9 at 10:30 a.m. for entities interested in applying for the grant.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pk48JNhuXkuFpVNem_aqCKA4f4uWm86B31gHPEK3GjM/s/1303135927/br/90612413059-l" target="_blank">Those interested in participating can sign up here.</a>

New broadband access grant program for rural and underserved communities

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Agriculture pesticide and fertilizer program recently received a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7, to aid in the disposal of orphaned pesticide products.

Orphaned pesticide products are herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides and fungicides that can no longer be offered for sale in Kansas. 

This can include partially used products owned by private citizens, unsold products at retailers, or unused/partially used products owned by an applicator. The grant will support the pickup and disposal of the products by Clean Harbors, an environmental waste company.

Although local county weed department or household hazardous waste facilities will often take pesticide waste at little to no charge, sometimes the cost of disposal for the facility is too great or the facility is not permitted to take that particular type/kind of waste. The grant is available for those instances when the local facilities will not take the waste.

The orphaned pesticide waste grant applies to waste from farmers, ranchers, businesses or other private individuals. Grant funds can also pay for the disposal of abandoned pesticide waste left on property that was sold or waste that was dumped or abandoned. Funds are limited, and disposal will be approved on a first come, first served basis.

To apply for funds to dispose of orphaned pesticide waste, contact the KDA pesticide and fertilizer program at 785-564-6688 or email product registration specialist Judy Glass at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Judy.Glass@ks.gov" target="_blank">Judy.Glass@ks.gov</a>. You will need to complete a form and receive approval to arrange for pickup of the pesticide waste.

This grant helps KDA fulfill its mission to serve Kansas farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and the customers they serve, while protecting natural resources and promoting public health and safety.

KDA&nbsp;MANHATTAN —&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Agriculture pesticide and fertilizer program recently received a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7, to aid in the disposal of orphaned pesticide products.Orphaned pesticide products are herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides and fungicides that can no longer be offered for sale in Kansas. This can include partially used products owned by private citizens, unsold products at retailers, or unused/partially used products owned by an applicator. The grant will support the pickup and disposal of the products by Clean Harbors, an environmental waste company.Although local county weed department or household hazardous waste facilities will often take pesticide waste at little to no charge, sometimes the cost of disposal for the facility is too great or the facility is not permitted to take that particular type/kind of waste. The grant is available for those instances when the local facilities will not take the waste.The orphaned pesticide waste grant applies to waste from farmers, ranchers, businesses or other private individuals. Grant funds can also pay for the disposal of abandoned pesticide waste left on property that was sold or waste that was dumped or abandoned. Funds are limited, and disposal will be approved on a first come, first served basis.To apply for funds to dispose of orphaned pesticide waste, contact the KDA pesticide and fertilizer program at 785-564-6688 or email product registration specialist Judy Glass at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Judy.Glass@ks.gov" target="_blank">Judy.Glass@ks.gov</a>. You will need to complete a form and receive approval to arrange for pickup of the pesticide waste. This grant helps KDA fulfill its mission to serve Kansas farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and the customers they serve, while protecting natural resources and promoting public health and safety.

KDA grant to fund disposal of orphaned pesticide

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🎙 Post Podcast: Shopping locally more important than ever

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The 13th year of the Community Thanksgiving Feast organized by the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance was like no other.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the popular event required major reorganization by the volunteers, turning it from the traditional sit-down dinner to drive-through contactless curbside pick-up.

"Not like any Thanksgiving meal we've ever done before," said Rev. Celeste Lasich, head of the organizing committee.

The spirit of community, though, remained unchanged, Lasich said.

"We're still dining together, even though we're under different roofs this time.

"The entire community has come together to make this a safe, joyful and grateful Thanksgiving."&nbsp;

There were more than 800 online pre-registrations for the free traditional turkey dinners with sides and pumpkin pie distributed between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday. Registrants were assigned pick-up times in 15-minute increments to prevent backed up traffic.

In previous years, the dinner has attracted between 500 and 600 attendees.

Organizers had initially planned on distributing 750 free meals but 783 meals were reserved by the Nov. 14 deadline, so the amount of food ordered was increased.

Most people picked up their dinners in a drive-through lane in front of Gella's&nbsp;Diner, 117 E. 11th St. Volunteer drivers also delivered contactless meals to those unable to drive to downtown Hays.&nbsp;

Free-will donations were made by many of the drive-in diners. The money will go to the ECMA Second Mile Fund.

Volunteers coordinated by&nbsp;Laura Allen with First Call for Help were spread out for three blocks between Gella's and the Community Assistance Center on East 12th.&nbsp;

They manned the registration stop, traffic control and carry out of the&nbsp; dinners packaged in plastic bags from the restaurant to vehicles. Other volunteers coordinated the food flow and packaging inside Gella's.

"We've set this up safely, coordinating with every health department,  hospital and law enforcement protocol that we can," Lasich said.&nbsp;

Free bags of groceries were also available to those in the drive-through lane, handed out by more volunteers.

The food was collected from donors Nov. 21 at local grocery stores, then sorted and bagged by volunteers Wednesday evening in the gym of Celebration Community Church.

All the volunteers wore face masks, had access to bottles of sanitizer, and Downtown Hays Development Corporation's portable hand sanitizer machines were set up in several locations.&nbsp;

"We have the best volunteers," Lasich said with enthusiasm.

There were a number of filled grocery bags left over at the end of the event and taken to First Call For Help.

Unregistered individuals hoping to pick up unclaimed meals were disappointed, but were able to drive away with a bag full of groceries.

Lasich was <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1cef467d7daa72b30eacfa">honored</a> in mid-January by the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance for her leadership of the Community Thanksgiving Dinner.

No one had any idea of the major changes they would soon confront because of COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542754498.jpeg" alt="The annual Ellis County Ministerial Alliance Community Thanksgiving Dinner in Hays became a drive-through pick up meal this year because of COVID-19." />
 <figcaption>The annual Ellis County Ministerial Alliance Community Thanksgiving Dinner in Hays became a drive-through pick up meal this year because of COVID-19.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe 13th year of the Community Thanksgiving Feast organized by the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance was like no other.Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the popular event required major reorganization by the volunteers, turning it from the traditional sit-down dinner to drive-through contactless curbside pick-up."Not like any Thanksgiving meal we've ever done before," said Rev. Celeste Lasich, head of the organizing committee.The spirit of community, though, remained unchanged, Lasich said."We're still dining together, even though we're under different roofs this time."The entire community has come together to make this a safe, joyful and grateful Thanksgiving."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606543090659.jpeg" alt="Vehicles begin lining up Thursday to pick up Thanksgiving dinners.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Vehicles begin lining up Thursday to pick up Thanksgiving dinners.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>There were more than 800 online pre-registrations for the free traditional turkey dinners with sides and pumpkin pie distributed between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday. Registrants were assigned pick-up times in 15-minute increments to prevent backed up traffic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542891711.jpeg" alt="Mashed potatoes were one of the sides dished up in Gella's Diner." />
 <figcaption>Mashed potatoes were one of the sides dished up in Gella's Diner.</figcaption>
 </figure>In previous years, the dinner has attracted between 500 and 600 attendees.Organizers had initially planned on distributing 750 free meals but 783 meals were reserved by the Nov. 14 deadline, so the amount of food ordered was increased.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542702269.jpeg" alt="Drivers with large orders of as many as 45 dinners picked up their meals from Gella's back door in the alley." />
 <figcaption>Drivers with large orders of as many as 45 dinners picked up their meals from Gella's back door in the alley.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542662465.jpeg" alt="Sam, son of&nbsp; volunteer coordinator Laura Allen, First Call For Help, was in charge of meal deliveries.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sam, son of&nbsp; volunteer coordinator Laura Allen, First Call For Help, was in charge of meal deliveries.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Most people picked up their dinners in a drive-through lane in front of Gella's&nbsp;Diner, 117 E. 11th St. Volunteer drivers also delivered contactless meals to those unable to drive to downtown Hays.&nbsp;Free-will donations were made by many of the drive-in diners. The money will go to the ECMA Second Mile Fund.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z1TpQaSvMP8"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Volunteers coordinated by&nbsp;Laura Allen with First Call for Help were spread out for three blocks between Gella's and the Community Assistance Center on East 12th.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606543042996.jpeg" alt="Laura Allen and Linda Stahlman man the registration table. Cards with the number of meals ordered were placed on vehicle windshields.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Laura Allen and Linda Stahlman man the registration table. Cards with the number of meals ordered were placed on vehicle windshields.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542958056.jpeg" alt="Dennis Lasich directs traffic to turn in the drive-through lane to Gella's." />
 <figcaption>Dennis Lasich directs traffic to turn in the drive-through lane to Gella's.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542999665.jpeg" alt="Packaging dinner boxes for pick up" />
 <figcaption>Packaging dinner boxes for pick up</figcaption>
 </figure>They manned the registration stop, traffic control and carry out of the&nbsp; dinners packaged in plastic bags from the restaurant to vehicles. Other volunteers coordinated the food flow and packaging inside Gella's.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542799760.jpeg" alt="Meal assembly inside Gella's" />
 <figcaption>Meal assembly inside Gella's</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542822671.jpeg" alt="Delivery meals" />
 <figcaption>Delivery meals</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542578074.jpeg" alt="Checking pre-registrations&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Checking pre-registrations&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"We've set this up safely, coordinating with every health department, hospital and law enforcement protocol that we can," Lasich said.&nbsp;Free bags of groceries were also available to those in the drive-through lane, handed out by more volunteers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542929118.jpeg" alt="Setting up the grocery distribution area" />
 <figcaption>Setting up the grocery distribution area</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606542847301.jpeg" alt="A volunteer loads a vehicle with a free bag of groceries.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A volunteer loads a vehicle with a free bag of groceries.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The food was collected from donors Nov. 21 at local grocery stores, then sorted and bagged by volunteers Wednesday evening in the gym of Celebration Community Church.All the volunteers wore face masks, had access to bottles of sanitizer, and Downtown Hays Development Corporation's portable hand sanitizer machines were set up in several locations.&nbsp;"We have the best volunteers," Lasich said with enthusiasm.There were a number of filled grocery bags left over at the end of the event and taken to First Call For Help.All the turkey dinners were distributed.Unregistered individuals hoping to pick up unclaimed meals were disappointed, but were able to drive away with a bag full of groceries.Lasich was <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1cef467d7daa72b30eacfa">honored</a> in mid-January by the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance for her leadership of the Community Thanksgiving Dinner.No one had any idea of the major changes they would soon confront because of COVID-19.

🎥 'Not like any Thanksgiving meal we've ever done before,' say ECMA organizers

ELLIS — On Tuesday, Ellis High School inducted five juniors and 12 seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Requirements to get into NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.&nbsp; The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:

PICTURE (L to R) 
Back Row (2nd year members): &nbsp; Senior Samuel Pyle, son of Daniel &amp; Machelle Pyle; Senior Clay Shaw, son of Doug &amp; Jill Shaw; Senior Zachary Schiel, son of Jared &amp; Elizabeth Schiel; Senior Maci Kohl, daughter of Lance &amp; Marnie Kohl; Senior Michaela Keller, daughter of Michael &amp; Vanessa Keller; Senior Kassidy Winter, daughter of Vic &amp; Joan Winter; and Senior Grace Eck, daughter of Mark &amp; Sarah Eck.&nbsp; Not pictured:&nbsp; Senior Camryn Frickey, daughter of Brian &amp; Michelle Frickey; and Senior Magdalene James, daughter of Wesley James &amp; Alice Berens.

Front Row (1st year members):&nbsp; Senior Brooklyn Julian, daughter of Ronald Julian &amp; Amanda Meserve; Senior Veronica Bieker, daughter of Emmett Bieker &amp; Michelle Bieker; Junior Samuel Honas, son of Randy &amp; Wendy Honas; Junior George Crawford IV, son of Bret &amp; Kimberly Andries and the late George Crawford III; Senior Morgan Bittel, daughter of Brady Bittel &amp; Tammy Rudd; Junior Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ &amp; Julie Fischer; Junior Madison Gottschalk, daughter of Dean &amp; Julie Gottschalk, and Junior Faith Fondoble, daughter of Matt &amp; Sharona Fondoble.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606253468236.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS — On Tuesday, Ellis High School inducted five juniors and 12 seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Requirements to get into NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.&nbsp; The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:PICTURE (L to R) 
Back Row (2nd year members): &nbsp; Senior Samuel Pyle, son of Daniel &amp; Machelle Pyle; Senior Clay Shaw, son of Doug &amp; Jill Shaw; Senior Zachary Schiel, son of Jared &amp; Elizabeth Schiel; Senior Maci Kohl, daughter of Lance &amp; Marnie Kohl; Senior Michaela Keller, daughter of Michael &amp; Vanessa Keller; Senior Kassidy Winter, daughter of Vic &amp; Joan Winter; and Senior Grace Eck, daughter of Mark &amp; Sarah Eck.&nbsp; Not pictured:&nbsp; Senior Camryn Frickey, daughter of Brian &amp; Michelle Frickey; and Senior Magdalene James, daughter of Wesley James &amp; Alice Berens.Front Row (1st year members):&nbsp; Senior Brooklyn Julian, daughter of Ronald Julian &amp; Amanda Meserve; Senior Veronica Bieker, daughter of Emmett Bieker &amp; Michelle Bieker; Junior Samuel Honas, son of Randy &amp; Wendy Honas; Junior George Crawford IV, son of Bret &amp; Kimberly Andries and the late George Crawford III; Senior Morgan Bittel, daughter of Brady Bittel &amp; Tammy Rudd; Junior Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ &amp; Julie Fischer; Junior Madison Gottschalk, daughter of Dean &amp; Julie Gottschalk, and Junior Faith Fondoble, daughter of Matt &amp; Sharona Fondoble.— Submitted

Ellis High inducts 17 into National Honor Society

Fort Hays State University’s Claire Nickerson has been selected as a fellow in the&nbsp;Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition&nbsp;(SPARC) Open Education Leadership Program.

Nickerson, Learning Initiatives and Open Educational Resources Librarian at Forsyth Library, is one of only 21 fellows selected from a competitive applicant pool for the program’s 2020-2021 cohort. This intensive professional development program is designed to empower academic professionals with the knowledge, skills and community connections to lead successful open education initiatives that benefit students.

SPARC is an international organization of professionals around the globe who focus on policies and practices that support open education, open access to research, and open data sharing.

“The SPARC fellowship is a significant and well-deserved honor reflective of Ms. Nickerson’s professional knowledge and expertise,” said Deborah Ludwig, library dean. &nbsp;

The leadership program spans two semesters, beginning with an intensive online course in the fall to build open education subject matter mastery. In the spring, Nickerson will work with a mentor to implement a capstone project that will help advance open education at Fort Hays State and contribute to the broader open education field.

“I am very excited about the program,” Nickerson said. “It provides the opportunity to become a stronger advocate for open education both at Fort Hays State and in Kansas, and I am enjoying being immersed in a community of other professionals passionate about OER (Open Educational Resources).”

Nickerson is currently the chair of the FHSU OER Committee and is also serving on the statewide OER Steering Committee made up of representatives across Kansas public institutions. The group convenes once a month to discuss statewide initiatives, including collaborative events, grant applications, system participation in regional and national OER organizations, OER platforms and best practices.

Delivering an affordable and accessible education has long been a focus of FHSU. The campus OER committee, in conjunction with Forsyth Library, hosted a mini-conference in fall 2018 and in spring 2019 to support faculty interested in creating, adapting or adding supplementary materials to an open textbook. Another mini-conference is being planned for spring 2021.

In addition to supporting faculty with advanced professional development opportunities, the Open Textbook Grant Program provides funding opportunities for faculty to create openly licensed supplementary materials, revise existing open textbooks or write new open textbooks.

Additionally, the Z-Course program launched a grant this year, designed to support the conversion of courses that currently use paid course materials into Z-courses (courses that use zero-cost course materials). The program also provides an opportunity to recognize departments that have embraced zero-cost course materials in their curriculum.

“The COVID-19 crisis has brought deeper scrutiny to many of the inequities that already exist within higher education, and open education is a key enabling strategy to help level the playing field,” said Nicole Allen, director of Open Education for SPARC.

For more information about Open Educational Resources at FHSU, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIBrcLgJImOHzH07Fi9gbtiVbnLWRLoAvTxO4jddsAdLy4d7_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BSdzXBCIClxBmMx5-2BanR5HDYiEsmMZHkGrRvpdhWcy57lckuWGypLJcBMNoILZpNg9lyCr0N5s3C-2B47lfWBQBlbpNzV83YG7HD5jNvLVKspVMn21W3xn9EA-2BRHdH-2Fv7rwHGD5vsqeAZdBFXqT1wlAWExLbOUWkIv0Stb908-2FlH2DxGuRQr18PiueGG5bZ7-2BFhUJXBnCOJLPRtizbJnjVbZWjX-2BZ78emRMp1ih68obcAslehr9ldl-2B-2Fs-2BoIIBuYCmDf0bjFfDRg-2BmrXaaO-2BbSARQ-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/oer</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606148097341.jpeg" alt="Claire Nickerson" />
 <figcaption>Claire Nickerson</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University’s Claire Nickerson has been selected as a fellow in the&nbsp;Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition&nbsp;(SPARC) Open Education Leadership Program.Nickerson, Learning Initiatives and Open Educational Resources Librarian at Forsyth Library, is one of only 21 fellows selected from a competitive applicant pool for the program’s 2020-2021 cohort. This intensive professional development program is designed to empower academic professionals with the knowledge, skills and community connections to lead successful open education initiatives that benefit students.SPARC is an international organization of professionals around the globe who focus on policies and practices that support open education, open access to research, and open data sharing.“The SPARC fellowship is a significant and well-deserved honor reflective of Ms. Nickerson’s professional knowledge and expertise,” said Deborah Ludwig, library dean. &nbsp;The leadership program spans two semesters, beginning with an intensive online course in the fall to build open education subject matter mastery. In the spring, Nickerson will work with a mentor to implement a capstone project that will help advance open education at Fort Hays State and contribute to the broader open education field.“I am very excited about the program,” Nickerson said. “It provides the opportunity to become a stronger advocate for open education both at Fort Hays State and in Kansas, and I am enjoying being immersed in a community of other professionals passionate about OER (Open Educational Resources).”Nickerson is currently the chair of the FHSU OER Committee and is also serving on the statewide OER Steering Committee made up of representatives across Kansas public institutions. The group convenes once a month to discuss statewide initiatives, including collaborative events, grant applications, system participation in regional and national OER organizations, OER platforms and best practices.Delivering an affordable and accessible education has long been a focus of FHSU. The campus OER committee, in conjunction with Forsyth Library, hosted a mini-conference in fall 2018 and in spring 2019 to support faculty interested in creating, adapting or adding supplementary materials to an open textbook. Another mini-conference is being planned for spring 2021.In addition to supporting faculty with advanced professional development opportunities, the Open Textbook Grant Program provides funding opportunities for faculty to create openly licensed supplementary materials, revise existing open textbooks or write new open textbooks.Additionally, the Z-Course program launched a grant this year, designed to support the conversion of courses that currently use paid course materials into Z-courses (courses that use zero-cost course materials). The program also provides an opportunity to recognize departments that have embraced zero-cost course materials in their curriculum.“The COVID-19 crisis has brought deeper scrutiny to many of the inequities that already exist within higher education, and open education is a key enabling strategy to help level the playing field,” said Nicole Allen, director of Open Education for SPARC.For more information about Open Educational Resources at FHSU, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIBrcLgJImOHzH07Fi9gbtiVbnLWRLoAvTxO4jddsAdLy4d7_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BSdzXBCIClxBmMx5-2BanR5HDYiEsmMZHkGrRvpdhWcy57lckuWGypLJcBMNoILZpNg9lyCr0N5s3C-2B47lfWBQBlbpNzV83YG7HD5jNvLVKspVMn21W3xn9EA-2BRHdH-2Fv7rwHGD5vsqeAZdBFXqT1wlAWExLbOUWkIv0Stb908-2FlH2DxGuRQr18PiueGG5bZ7-2BFhUJXBnCOJLPRtizbJnjVbZWjX-2BZ78emRMp1ih68obcAslehr9ldl-2B-2Fs-2BoIIBuYCmDf0bjFfDRg-2BmrXaaO-2BbSARQ-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/oer</a>.

FHSU’s Nickerson selected as a SPARC Open Education Leadership Fellow

Three-day weather outlook

The best time to seed cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass is September because the turf has more time to mature before spring crabgrass germination and the heat stress of summer. Dormant seeding of turfgrass is sometimes used to help fill in bare spots of lawns that weren't overseeded in the fall. Dormant overseeding is done during the winter (December – February) when it is much too cold for germination.

As with any seeding program, good seed-soil contact is vital. Several methods can be used. One method is to seed when there has been a light snowfall of up to an inch. This is shallow enough that bare spots can still be seen. Spread seed by hand on areas that need thickening up. As the snow melts, it brings the seed into good contact with the soil where it will germinate in the spring. Another method is dependent on the surface of the soil being moist followed by freezing weather. As moist soil freezes and thaws, small pockets are formed on the wet, bare soil that is perfect for catching and holding seed. As the soil dries, the pockets collapse and cover the seed. A third method involves core aerating, verticutting, or hand raking and broadcasting seed immediately after. Of course, the soil must be dry enough and unfrozen for this to be practical. With any of the above methods, the seed germinates in the spring as early as possible. There will be limitations on what herbicides can be used for weed control. Tupersan (siduron) can be used as a crabgrass preventer on new seedings even before they have come up. Also, dithiopyr, found in Hi-Yield Turf and Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper and Bonide Crabgrass &amp; Weed Preventer, can be used on tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass two weeks after germination. Dithiopyr is longer lasting and more effective than siduron. Other preemergence herbicides available to homeowners require that the turf be well established before application. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The best time to seed cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass is September because the turf has more time to mature before spring crabgrass germination and the heat stress of summer. Dormant seeding of turfgrass is sometimes used to help fill in bare spots of lawns that weren't overseeded in the fall. Dormant overseeding is done during the winter (December – February) when it is much too cold for germination.As with any seeding program, good seed-soil contact is vital. Several methods can be used. One method is to seed when there has been a light snowfall of up to an inch. This is shallow enough that bare spots can still be seen. Spread seed by hand on areas that need thickening up. As the snow melts, it brings the seed into good contact with the soil where it will germinate in the spring. Another method is dependent on the surface of the soil being moist followed by freezing weather. As moist soil freezes and thaws, small pockets are formed on the wet, bare soil that is perfect for catching and holding seed. As the soil dries, the pockets collapse and cover the seed. A third method involves core aerating, verticutting, or hand raking and broadcasting seed immediately after. Of course, the soil must be dry enough and unfrozen for this to be practical. With any of the above methods, the seed germinates in the spring as early as possible. There will be limitations on what herbicides can be used for weed control. Tupersan (siduron) can be used as a crabgrass preventer on new seedings even before they have come up. Also, dithiopyr, found in Hi-Yield Turf and Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper and Bonide Crabgrass &amp; Weed Preventer, can be used on tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass two weeks after germination. Dithiopyr is longer lasting and more effective than siduron. Other preemergence herbicides available to homeowners require that the turf be well established before application. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Dormant seeding of turfgrass    

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with ESOP Association president and CEO Jim Bonham

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: ESOP Association president and CEO Jim Bonham" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/kdbym-f3720a?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with ESOP Association president and CEO Jim Bonham

🎤Forward Ever: ESOP Association president and CEO Jim Bonham

By AUDREY COLEMAN <a href="https://doleinstitute.org">Dole Institute of Politics</a>

I’ve been thinking a lot about Neil Diamond lately.

No, not the gold 
shimmering jumpsuits or the stirring vocal impersonations by Al Latta at
 Kansas City’s Cigar Box that I enjoyed with friends in the early days 
of the millennium.

No, I’m thinking about his
 1980 hit single “America.” Pop culture hegemony being what it is, if 
you were a kid of the 1980s, it was everywhere and surely shaped your 
thinking for the length of the decade, or longer.

It’s a stirring, hopeful 
song, celebrating the promise of our nation, for immigrants and all, 
with a rousing chorus and pulsing beat. Not a whiff of cynicism. 
Ecstatic masses cheering in unison — they’re coming to America — TODAY! 
“They” becoming “us,” one America, Americans, all together, seeking the 
dream of a life in the greatest country on Earth.

It made an impression on 
me. I grew up with this same sense of pride, invincibility, rightness, 
exceptionalism: middle-class suburban kids like me had arrived in the 
world at just the right place and time, whether by pure luck or divine 
intervention, and the hard work was already done by those who had 
suffered and sacrificed before.

In our today, the blinders
 are off. The song was inspiration, not achievement. The dream was real,
 but living up to its promise was our job, not our inheritance. Too many
 suffer, have always suffered, inequality and systemic injustice. Too 
many fear for their own future, and fear America is a failure.

But if our story didn’t 
end with Diamond’s 1980 version, it sure as heck doesn’t have to end 
here and now, like this, with our ability to build a better nation — or 
simply address everyday problems — hobbled by our outright refusal to 
embrace our common identity as Americans.

Scholar of political science <a href="https://www.shsu.edu/~sgu001/">Stacy Ulbig</a> recently spoke in a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L16pVu2G7KI">virtual event</a>
 at the Dole Institute about political polarization in college students.
 Ulbig found that, even before the 2016 election cycle, partisan 
animosity was already well entrenched: her subjects expressed clearly 
that they did not want to be around people of the opposite party, much 
less socialize or even intermarry with them. We need not look far to 
find examples that tribalism of that nature leads to an unhappy end.

We’ve had really hard 
times as a nation before, and not so long ago. Examining constituent 
letters from Kansans to then-Congressman Bob Dole from the 1960s (the 
subject of an upcoming exhibit at the Dole Institute), we find 
contentions of startling familiarity: the role of the federal 
government, representation, civil rights, law and order, racism, fears 
of socialism, government overreach, violence. The rhetoric too often 
echoes language I see in social media.

One way to look at it is 
pessimistic: Have we come nowhere in 60 years? The other, more salient 
observation is this: In a liberal democracy these conversations will — 
and should — always exist. Regardless of the pace or the nature of 
progress, there will always be lines along which we will contend.

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/20/kansans-who-want-to-quit-fighting-with-each-other-could-try-this-place/">We can disagree</a>.
 It can still be all right. But we must work, and we must compromise. 
Something that Congress had going for back then, and is missing now, is 
that the normalized behavior was compromise and mutual respect — and the
 understanding that these were values to be embraced, not pilloried.

Now, to our great 
detriment, rejecting the premise of Diamond’s message in “America” may 
be one of the few things people of both parties have in common: 
“Immigrants? Build the wall,” or “America? A disgrace. You’d choose to 
come here?”

The hard truth, as Ulbig and many others have pointed out, is we risk our own security if we continue to reject one another. <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/23/were-so-close-to-civil-war-everyone-can-smell-the-smoke/">Partisan animosity</a>, and rhetoric that enforces it, feels threatening and <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/07/a-kansas-history-professor-sees-troubling-deeply-problematic-danger-signs-for-the-united-states/">sows the seeds of violence</a>. If we are unable to stand with one another at home, we cannot withstand threats from abroad. If <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/13/kansas-covid-19-response-is-an-enduring-moral-failure/">we cannot unite today against a non-living viral threat</a>, can we honestly expect we’ll prevail over human ones?

So, for our own good, if 
not the common one, let’s reject the idea — fed from so many directions —
 that our partisan differences make us enemies, and demand our leaders 
do the same. We — Americans — will outlast our leaders. We can correct 
our mistakes.

Give “America” another 
listen after all these years, then — through your own actions —&nbsp; cast 
your vote each and every day for an America that is a steward of all her
 people and rightfully the envy of the world.

Zip up your sequined jumpsuits. We’ve got work to do, together.

Audrey Coleman is associate director and director of museum and archives at the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas. She is a member of the Kansas State Historical Records Advisory Board and the Humanities Kansas Speaker’s Bureau.

Republished courtesy the Kansas Reflector.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606505078011.jpeg" alt="Audrey Coleman is associate director and director of museum and archives at the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Audrey Coleman is associate director and director of museum and archives at the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By AUDREY COLEMAN <a href="https://doleinstitute.org">Dole Institute of Politics</a>I’ve been thinking a lot about Neil Diamond lately.No, not the gold 
shimmering jumpsuits or the stirring vocal impersonations by Al Latta at
 Kansas City’s Cigar Box that I enjoyed with friends in the early days 
of the millennium.No, I’m thinking about his
 1980 hit single “America.” Pop culture hegemony being what it is, if 
you were a kid of the 1980s, it was everywhere and surely shaped your 
thinking for the length of the decade, or longer.It’s a stirring, hopeful 
song, celebrating the promise of our nation, for immigrants and all, 
with a rousing chorus and pulsing beat. Not a whiff of cynicism. 
Ecstatic masses cheering in unison — they’re coming to America — TODAY! 
“They” becoming “us,” one America, Americans, all together, seeking the 
dream of a life in the greatest country on Earth.It made an impression on 
me. I grew up with this same sense of pride, invincibility, rightness, 
exceptionalism: middle-class suburban kids like me had arrived in the 
world at just the right place and time, whether by pure luck or divine 
intervention, and the hard work was already done by those who had 
suffered and sacrificed before.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hc-v8CFJzu4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In our today, the blinders
 are off. The song was inspiration, not achievement. The dream was real,
 but living up to its promise was our job, not our inheritance. Too many
 suffer, have always suffered, inequality and systemic injustice. Too 
many fear for their own future, and fear America is a failure.But if our story didn’t 
end with Diamond’s 1980 version, it sure as heck doesn’t have to end 
here and now, like this, with our ability to build a better nation — or 
simply address everyday problems — hobbled by our outright refusal to 
embrace our common identity as Americans.Scholar of political science <a href="https://www.shsu.edu/~sgu001/">Stacy Ulbig</a> recently spoke in a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L16pVu2G7KI">virtual event</a>
 at the Dole Institute about political polarization in college students.
 Ulbig found that, even before the 2016 election cycle, partisan 
animosity was already well entrenched: her subjects expressed clearly 
that they did not want to be around people of the opposite party, much 
less socialize or even intermarry with them. We need not look far to 
find examples that tribalism of that nature leads to an unhappy end.We’ve had really hard 
times as a nation before, and not so long ago. Examining constituent 
letters from Kansans to then-Congressman Bob Dole from the 1960s (the 
subject of an upcoming exhibit at the Dole Institute), we find 
contentions of startling familiarity: the role of the federal 
government, representation, civil rights, law and order, racism, fears 
of socialism, government overreach, violence. The rhetoric too often 
echoes language I see in social media.One way to look at it is 
pessimistic: Have we come nowhere in 60 years? The other, more salient 
observation is this: In a liberal democracy these conversations will — 
and should — always exist. Regardless of the pace or the nature of 
progress, there will always be lines along which we will contend.<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/20/kansans-who-want-to-quit-fighting-with-each-other-could-try-this-place/">We can disagree</a>.
 It can still be all right. But we must work, and we must compromise. 
Something that Congress had going for back then, and is missing now, is 
that the normalized behavior was compromise and mutual respect — and the
 understanding that these were values to be embraced, not pilloried.Now, to our great 
detriment, rejecting the premise of Diamond’s message in “America” may 
be one of the few things people of both parties have in common: 
“Immigrants? Build the wall,” or “America? A disgrace. You’d choose to 
come here?”The hard truth, as Ulbig and many others have pointed out, is we risk our own security if we continue to reject one another. <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/23/were-so-close-to-civil-war-everyone-can-smell-the-smoke/">Partisan animosity</a>, and rhetoric that enforces it, feels threatening and <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/07/a-kansas-history-professor-sees-troubling-deeply-problematic-danger-signs-for-the-united-states/">sows the seeds of violence</a>. If we are unable to stand with one another at home, we cannot withstand threats from abroad. If <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/13/kansas-covid-19-response-is-an-enduring-moral-failure/">we cannot unite today against a non-living viral threat</a>, can we honestly expect we’ll prevail over human ones?So, for our own good, if 
not the common one, let’s reject the idea — fed from so many directions —
 that our partisan differences make us enemies, and demand our leaders 
do the same. We — Americans — will outlast our leaders. We can correct 
our mistakes.Give “America” another 
listen after all these years, then — through your own actions —&nbsp; cast 
your vote each and every day for an America that is a steward of all her
 people and rightfully the envy of the world.Zip up your sequined jumpsuits. We’ve got work to do, together.Audrey Coleman is associate director and director of museum and archives at the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas. She is a member of the Kansas State Historical Records Advisory Board and the Humanities Kansas Speaker’s Bureau.Republished courtesy the Kansas Reflector.

🎥 OPINION: Lessons from Neil Diamond from Kan. child of the '80s

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days again fell from 38 on Wednesday to 34 on Friday.

The department also announced two additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 28.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c57b0ee6-7e92-4319-a7ed-3a0947cc8375">RELATED:&nbsp;Ellis Co. Health Department announces expanded drive-through testing</a>

There were 52 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 438 active cases, including 10 active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 1,880 recovered cases. As of Wednesday, there were 37 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, according to The University of Kansas Health System.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 34.7 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 2,346 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 28 virus-related deaths.

Of the total 12,934 tests administered, 16.9 percent have returned positive for coronavirus.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606500892634.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days again fell from 38 on Wednesday to 34 on Friday.The department also announced two additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 28.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c57b0ee6-7e92-4319-a7ed-3a0947cc8375">RELATED:&nbsp;Ellis Co. Health Department announces expanded drive-through testing</a>There were 52 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 438 active cases, including 10 active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 1,880 recovered cases. As of Wednesday, there were 37 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, according to The University of Kansas Health System.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 34.7 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 2,346 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 28 virus-related deaths.Of the total 12,934 tests administered, 16.9 percent have returned positive for coronavirus.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606499852427.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AClvlGge52U"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis Co. per-day virus rate dips; two additional deaths announced

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced expanded free drive-through testing for COVID-19.

The testing — in partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and @tourhealth — will be today until 4:30 p.m. and then Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until further notice.

The drive-through testing will occur at Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine. No appointment is necessary.

"Please ensure that you are following COVID-19 safe practices, which includes isolating yourself following testing until you receive results," the department said in a news release, noting turnaround time on testing averages three to five days. "We encourage all of Ellis County to continue to follow best practices as we attempt to move forward with life."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606496461004.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced expanded free drive-through testing for COVID-19.The testing — in partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and @tourhealth — will be today until 4:30 p.m. and then Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until further notice.The drive-through testing will occur at Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine. No appointment is necessary."Please ensure that you are following COVID-19 safe practices, which includes isolating yourself following testing until you receive results," the department said in a news release, noting turnaround time on testing averages three to five days. "We encourage all of Ellis County to continue to follow best practices as we attempt to move forward with life."Read the complete release below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606496381936.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis Co. Health Department announces expanded drive-through testing

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Children watch you, so compassion is important, said Hays Area Children's Center teacher Karen Thomason.

"If you don't show compassion to another person, how can you teach [compassion]?" she said. "Kids watch you. You can't say we're teaching you compassion or sharing or giving or turn taking if they don't see it come from you."

She said it helps build children who grow up to be giving and become involved in organizations and their community. It starts as young as the 2-1/2 years olds she has in her class.&nbsp;

"They watch every move you make," she said, "They can tell by your voice if you're happy. ... I will stand behind that 100 percent. You can't fake with little kids. ... They can sense it on you."

Thomason was nominated for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month by her lead para.

"Karen is the most positive person I know, and she is like a grandma to everybody at the center," said Audrey Bieker, Thomason's lead para. "The kids adore her, and she is always coming up with new ways and strategies to help the children learn and grow in all aspects.

"She is so full of life. She loves the kids and her job, and she does it so well."

Bieker said she and the other paras look up to Thomason and seek her advice.

"She is the most kind-hearted and compassionate person I know, and there's nobody I could think of who would better deserve this than her," she said.

Thomason didn't set out to be a teacher. When it came time to send her children to school, she wanted to make sure they were with people who would care for them and love them, she said.

She was applying for another job, and during a break, someone noticed how well she did with some children who were acting up. She ended up landing a job in early childhood education and went on to receive her child development associate's degree.

 Thomason, who now teaches 2-1/2- through 4-year-olds, has been with the Hays Area Children's Center since the Community Child Care Center merged with Early Childhood Development Center to form the HACC in the 1980s.&nbsp;

"We went through a lot of growth and good changes," she said. "We are always still changing and developing for early childhood."

Within the last several years, the Kansas Department of Education has put a new emphasis on early childhood education and kindergarten readiness.

"In the child's development, so much is achieved in the first three years," Thomason said, "anything from empathy to their physical development, their social development, how they interact with other people when they build those bonds and securities."

From where Thomason started 30 years ago, early childhood specialists have learned the importance of nutrition, and the children are learning more academically.

"Socialization is so important," Thomason said. "Even kindergarten teachers will tell you, the academics — they have to have certain requirements obviously — but that social, those self-help skills that we teach them in those early years are very important when they start school."

Having a nurturing learning environment builds confidence, she said.&nbsp;

"My philosophy is that I care and love them all," she said.&nbsp;"I want to do what is best for each one as an individual."

The children are in a classroom setting, but the focus is on individual needs, Thomason said.

Instead of learning colors or shapes through a lecture or worksheet, the children learn through play. They might go on a color hunt, or they might learn animal sounds by playing with a toy barn.

You have to stay positive and upbeat, Thomason said, because the kids can tell if you're not.

Her favorite teacher when she was attending Catholic school in Munjor was her second-grade teacher, Sister Frances Rose — a strict, but a good nun, Thomason said, who also cared deeply for her students.

"She knew everyone had their strengths and weaknesses," Thomason said. "I kind of still have that philosophy today. They all have their strengths. We all have our strengths. I am here to help you get stronger&nbsp; in one area."

She said she loves seeing a child learn something new.

"Just when they master something or something joyful has happened to them. When they light up, I think, 'Yes!' I have helped them, and we have mastered something.&nbsp; ... The little light bulb goes off and 'I got it.' "

Thomason said one of her greatest rewards is giving to other parents the same comfort she sought as a mother who was returning to work.

"I have had parents tell me that they think about their children, but they know their children are safe and being well taken care of," she said, "and they don't have that extra worry in the back of their minds."

Having taught for three decades, Thomason, 61, has taught children of the children she had in class and many of those parents still remember her.

"It makes me want to tear up," she said. ... "I think they are always a part of your life."

She keeps track of her students after they leave the HACC — through elementary school and high school.

"I look at the high school graduation and there is Susie or Bobby still looks like he did when he was little," she said. ... "You never really forget your kids."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603901709009.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605826575818.jpeg" alt="Karen Thomason, Hays Area Children's Center teacher, was named Hays Post Teacher of the Month after 31 years of teaching." />
 <figcaption>Karen Thomason, Hays Area Children's Center teacher, was named Hays Post Teacher of the Month after 31 years of teaching.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostChildren watch you, so compassion is important, said Hays Area Children's Center teacher Karen Thomason."If you don't show compassion to another person, how can you teach [compassion]?" she said. "Kids watch you. You can't say we're teaching you compassion or sharing or giving or turn taking if they don't see it come from you."She said it helps build children who grow up to be giving and become involved in organizations and their community. It starts as young as the 2-1/2 years olds she has in her class.&nbsp;"They watch every move you make," she said, "They can tell by your voice if you're happy. ... I will stand behind that 100 percent. You can't fake with little kids. ... They can sense it on you."Thomason was nominated for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month by her lead para."Karen is the most positive person I know, and she is like a grandma to everybody at the center," said Audrey Bieker, Thomason's lead para. "The kids adore her, and she is always coming up with new ways and strategies to help the children learn and grow in all aspects."She is so full of life. She loves the kids and her job, and she does it so well."Bieker said she and the other paras look up to Thomason and seek her advice."She is the most kind-hearted and compassionate person I know, and there's nobody I could think of who would better deserve this than her," she said.Thomason didn't set out to be a teacher. When it came time to send her children to school, she wanted to make sure they were with people who would care for them and love them, she said.She was applying for another job, and during a break, someone noticed how well she did with some children who were acting up. She ended up landing a job in early childhood education and went on to receive her child development associate's degree. Thomason, who now teaches 2-1/2- through 4-year-olds, has been with the Hays Area Children's Center since the Community Child Care Center merged with Early Childhood Development Center to form the HACC in the 1980s.&nbsp;"We went through a lot of growth and good changes," she said. "We are always still changing and developing for early childhood."Within the last several years, the Kansas Department of Education has put a new emphasis on early childhood education and kindergarten readiness."In the child's development, so much is achieved in the first three years," Thomason said, "anything from empathy to their physical development, their social development, how they interact with other people when they build those bonds and securities."From where Thomason started 30 years ago, early childhood specialists have learned the importance of nutrition, and the children are learning more academically."Socialization is so important," Thomason said. "Even kindergarten teachers will tell you, the academics — they have to have certain requirements obviously — but that social, those self-help skills that we teach them in those early years are very important when they start school."Having a nurturing learning environment builds confidence, she said.&nbsp;"My philosophy is that I care and love them all," she said.&nbsp;"I want to do what is best for each one as an individual."The children are in a classroom setting, but the focus is on individual needs, Thomason said.Instead of learning colors or shapes through a lecture or worksheet, the children learn through play. They might go on a color hunt, or they might learn animal sounds by playing with a toy barn.You have to stay positive and upbeat, Thomason said, because the kids can tell if you're not.Her favorite teacher when she was attending Catholic school in Munjor was her second-grade teacher, Sister Frances Rose — a strict, but a good nun, Thomason said, who also cared deeply for her students."She knew everyone had their strengths and weaknesses," Thomason said. "I kind of still have that philosophy today. They all have their strengths. We all have our strengths. I am here to help you get stronger&nbsp; in one area."She said she loves seeing a child learn something new."Just when they master something or something joyful has happened to them. When they light up, I think, 'Yes!' I have helped them, and we have mastered something.&nbsp; ... The little light bulb goes off and 'I got it.' "Thomason said one of her greatest rewards is giving to other parents the same comfort she sought as a mother who was returning to work."I have had parents tell me that they think about their children, but they know their children are safe and being well taken care of," she said, "and they don't have that extra worry in the back of their minds."Having taught for three decades, Thomason, 61, has taught children of the children she had in class and many of those parents still remember her."It makes me want to tear up," she said. ... "I think they are always a part of your life."She keeps track of her students after they leave the HACC — through elementary school and high school."I look at the high school graduation and there is Susie or Bobby still looks like he did when he was little," she said. ... "You never really forget your kids."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603901709009.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Teacher of the Month: Karen Thomason 'grandma' to HACC kids

Shopping local this holiday season is perhaps more important than ever, according to local businesses.

Leland Olive, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/coutureformen">Couture for Men</a> owner, said the pandemic has taken a toll on his business. He is hoping sales during the holiday will just be close to what they were last season.

“There is no way you can make up what you lost,” he said.

Sarah Wasinger, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/">Hays Chamber of Commerce</a> executive director, said this is a very critical year for many local businesses.

“We have already been told by several of them if there is another shutdown, they will be shutting their doors down for good,” she said.

“Think about the ways these business owners have supported our community for so many years. They are the ones supporting the sports teams, the arts programs. … They’re your friends. They’re the ones you sit by at church. They are your kids’s friends.”

The coronavirus has taken its toll on everybody, Shaun Musil, owner of the Paisley Pear, said.

“We feel very blessed that people have supported us the best they can," he said.&nbsp;

However, he noted the next two months will be important going into the next year.

"Small business, usually November and December gets us through January and February,” he said.

For those who don’t feel comfortable shopping in-store or dining out because of the pandemic, Musil suggested gift cards that help a business now but allow flexibility for the shopper.

Both the Hays Chamber and Downtown Hays Development Corporation are pushing efforts to bolster local shopping.

DHDC has partnered with businesses on several holiday promotions including a cash giveaway, coupon books and a We’re Glad You’re Here campaign, Sara Bloom, DHDC executive director, said.

Five hundred coupon books with offers from 22 downtown businesses are being sold for $10 each. They are valued at close to $1,000. The books are being sold at participating businesses and at the DHDC office.

$3,000 will be given away during the Downtown Dollar Giveaway. Once you have spent a minimum set by the business, you will be given a ticket that enters you into  a drawing for a $2,000 grand prize or $1,000 second prize that can be spent back at downtown businesses. Participating businesses also have some smaller prizes that will be given away.

The DHDC had planned to do the drawing live after the Frostfest parade, but the drawing may be done virtually because of rising COVID numbers. Watch the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">DHDC Facebook page</a> or <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/">website</a> for more details.

Bloom said businesses didn’t want to exclude shoppers from out of town, so the DHDC created the We’re Glad You’re Here campaign. Shoppers will receive a card worth $5 off a purchase of $25 or more at participating businesses.

Downtown business <a href="https://www.thefurniturelook.com/">The Furniture Look </a>is running discounts this weekend for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Owner Karen Dreiling said although she lost business during the shutdown, her industry has seen a 40 percent to 50 percent jump since reopening.

She attributed the increase to more people spending time in their homes.

COVID still has posed challenges for the business. Dreiling is struggling with factories unable keep up with her orders. Orders that had taken six weeks are now taking 12.

However, she said if anything has come out of COVID, it has been awareness of the need to support small businesses.

“I think that the shopper has gotten so much wiser about the importance of shopping local, shopping small,” Dreiling said, “because I see it almost everyday where people come in and say they could order something online, but they choose to shop with the local merchants.”

Wasinger said local employers are responding to the call to shop local, as well. As of last week, the Chamber had already exceeded its number of Chamber Cheques sold for the previous year. Why the surge?

HaysMed purchased Chamber Cheques as part of an employee appreciation program. Doctors's offices and individuals have purchased Chamber Cheques, which can be spent at Chamber member businesses, as appreciation gifts for frontline workers. 

“It is very humbling to know that people are paying attention now,” Wasinger said. “I think shop local is bigger now than ever.”

“We’ve also had people say, ‘We used to purchase things out of town. We know this year more than ever businesses need help locally,' ” Wasinger said. “I think people are really cognizant of the choices they make when they open their wallets.”

Local spending doesn't just help a single business owner. The average dollar circulates seven times if spent locally. 

“We know if I go into a store and take my Chamber Cheque ... Say it’s $25 and I going to go to Dillons and buy groceries for Thanksgiving. That Chamber Cheque is going toward one of their staff member’s salaries. That person is going to go purchase gas or rent with it. That money is going to continue to recycle through town for seven times. ...

“If you can push a cart instead of click on a cart, and you are doing it here in Ellis County, you are going to be doing more good,” Wasinger said.

Businesses offer alternative shopping options

Local businesses are taking great lengths to keep their businesses safe and clean and meet the needs of customers.

“Yes, COVID has definitely reduced our foot traffic,” Bloom said, “but our store are really working hard to accommodate in these times and serve the community.”

Couture for Men is steaming clothing that has been tried on before they go back on the racks. Olive also noted small Hays businesses are usually much less crowded than the big box stores, which means more room is available for social distancing. 

The Paisley Pear has launched an online store. It is delivering its retail items in Hays for free this holiday season. Couture for Men will ship. Still others are offering personal shopping and curbside delivery.

“It is just the right thing to do this year,” Musil said. “We are trying to go out of our way to make people feel comfortable.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606343553693.jpeg" alt="Paisley Pear owner Shaun Musil holds up a bag of his family's Let it Rise bread mix. Many other gift items in the store are Kansas made." />
 <figcaption>Paisley Pear owner Shaun Musil holds up a bag of his family's Let it Rise bread mix. Many other gift items in the store are Kansas made.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostShopping local this holiday season is perhaps more important than ever, according to local businesses.Leland Olive, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/coutureformen">Couture for Men</a> owner, said the pandemic has taken a toll on his business. He is hoping sales during the holiday will just be close to what they were last season.“There is no way you can make up what you lost,” he said.<h2>Doors could close</h2>Sarah Wasinger, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/">Hays Chamber of Commerce</a> executive director, said this is a very critical year for many local businesses.“We have already been told by several of them if there is another shutdown, they will be shutting their doors down for good,” she said.“Think about the ways these business owners have supported our community for so many years. They are the ones supporting the sports teams, the arts programs. … They’re your friends. They’re the ones you sit by at church. They are your kids’s friends.”The coronavirus has taken its toll on everybody, Shaun Musil, owner of the Paisley Pear, said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606343664003.jpeg" alt="The Paisley Pear is offering shopping alternatives, such as online ordering and in-town delivery for retail items." />
 <figcaption>The Paisley Pear is offering shopping alternatives, such as online ordering and in-town delivery for retail items.</figcaption>
 </figure>“We feel very blessed that people have supported us the best they can," he said.&nbsp;However, he noted the next two months will be important going into the next year."Small business, usually November and December gets us through January and February,” he said.For those who don’t feel comfortable shopping in-store or dining out because of the pandemic, Musil suggested gift cards that help a business now but allow flexibility for the shopper.<h2>Discounts and prizes</h2>Both the Hays Chamber and Downtown Hays Development Corporation are pushing efforts to bolster local shopping.DHDC has partnered with businesses on several holiday promotions including a cash giveaway, coupon books and a We’re Glad You’re Here campaign, Sara Bloom, DHDC executive director, said.Five hundred coupon books with offers from 22 downtown businesses are being sold for $10 each. They are valued at close to $1,000. The books are being sold at participating businesses and at the DHDC office.$3,000 will be given away during the Downtown Dollar Giveaway. Once you have spent a minimum set by the business, you will be given a ticket that enters you into a drawing for a $2,000 grand prize or $1,000 second prize that can be spent back at downtown businesses. Participating businesses also have some smaller prizes that will be given away.The DHDC had planned to do the drawing live after the Frostfest parade, but the drawing may be done virtually because of rising COVID numbers. Watch the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">DHDC Facebook page</a> or <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/">website</a> for more details.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606343775945.jpeg" alt="Couture for Men owner Leland Olive said 2020 has been a rough year for his business. He said he is hoping to just match holiday sales from last year." />
 <figcaption>Couture for Men owner Leland Olive said 2020 has been a rough year for his business. He said he is hoping to just match holiday sales from last year.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bloom said businesses didn’t want to exclude shoppers from out of town, so the DHDC created the We’re Glad You’re Here campaign. Shoppers will receive a card worth $5 off a purchase of $25 or more at participating businesses.<h2>Not all businesses are struggling</h2>Downtown business <a href="https://www.thefurniturelook.com/">The Furniture Look </a>is running discounts this weekend for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Owner Karen Dreiling said although she lost business during the shutdown, her industry has seen a 40 percent to 50 percent jump since reopening.She attributed the increase to more people spending time in their homes.COVID still has posed challenges for the business. Dreiling is struggling with factories unable keep up with her orders. Orders that had taken six weeks are now taking 12.However, she said if anything has come out of COVID, it has been awareness of the need to support small businesses.“I think that the shopper has gotten so much wiser about the importance of shopping local, shopping small,” Dreiling said, “because I see it almost everyday where people come in and say they could order something online, but they choose to shop with the local merchants.”<h2>Money spent here, stays here</h2>Wasinger said local employers are responding to the call to shop local, as well. As of last week, the Chamber had already exceeded its number of Chamber Cheques sold for the previous year. Why the surge?HaysMed purchased Chamber Cheques as part of an employee appreciation program. Doctors's offices and individuals have purchased Chamber Cheques, which can be spent at Chamber member businesses, as appreciation gifts for frontline workers. “It is very humbling to know that people are paying attention now,” Wasinger said. “I think shop local is bigger now than ever.”“We’ve also had people say, ‘We used to purchase things out of town. We know this year more than ever businesses need help locally,' ” Wasinger said. “I think people are really cognizant of the choices they make when they open their wallets.”Local spending doesn't just help a single business owner. The average dollar circulates seven times if spent locally. “We know if I go into a store and take my Chamber Cheque ... Say it’s $25 and I going to go to Dillons and buy groceries for Thanksgiving. That Chamber Cheque is going toward one of their staff member’s salaries. That person is going to go purchase gas or rent with it. That money is going to continue to recycle through town for seven times. ...“If you can push a cart instead of click on a cart, and you are doing it here in Ellis County, you are going to be doing more good,” Wasinger said.<h2>Businesses offer alternative shopping options</h2>Local businesses are taking great lengths to keep their businesses safe and clean and meet the needs of customers.“Yes, COVID has definitely reduced our foot traffic,” Bloom said, “but our store are really working hard to accommodate in these times and serve the community.”Couture for Men is steaming clothing that has been tried on before they go back on the racks. Olive also noted small Hays businesses are usually much less crowded than the big box stores, which means more room is available for social distancing. The Paisley Pear has launched an online store. It is delivering its retail items in Hays for free this holiday season. Couture for Men will ship. Still others are offering personal shopping and curbside delivery.“It is just the right thing to do this year,” Musil said. “We are trying to go out of our way to make people feel comfortable.”Wasinger suggested watching your favorite store’s Facebook page or contacting it directly to see what shopping options it is offering this season.“Don’t be afraid if you don’t feel safe to go out and shop this year because of the situation, work with the businesses,"Wasinger said. "They are bending over backward trying to make a difference for folks, and they very much need our support now more than ever."&nbsp;