When do our First Amendment rights become “wrongs?”

Well, when it comes to exercising your rights of free speech, 
assembly and petition in Tennessee, be careful. Setting up a up a tent 
for an overnight stay during a protest could land you in prison for up 
to six years.

A new law signed quietly into effect on Nov. 5 by Gov. Bill Lee
 changes the “crime” of overnight camping on state property without a 
permit — aimed at deterring protesters who have done that — from a 
misdemeanor to the much more serious felony. It also provides for 
stricter penalties and minimum jail terms for such clear threats to the 
republic as drawing in chalk on state property or interrupting 
legislators or local officials who are in a meeting.

In recent years, police have resorted to “sweeps” during 
demonstrations that operate on the theory of “arrest all and sort them 
out later,” sometimes taking into custody non-protesters simply walking 
to lunch or shopping. The Volunteer State’s new anti-protest law — 
advocates call it “criminal justice reform” — requires a magistrate’s 
intervention to gain early release for anyone sooner than a mandatory 
12-hour minimum stay behind bars.

A move in states to silence public protest began about a decade ago, 
around the time of the “Occupy” movement. The latest Tennessee statute 
was sparked by demonstrators who set up camp in Nashville’s War Memorial
 Plaza for nearly two months this year while seeking removal of a bust 
of Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, first leader the Ku Klux Klan, from the state Capitol building.

By some reports, as many as 40 states have considered or adopted 
direct or backdoor attempts modeled on a draft law prepared by a 
conservative alliance of legislators and corporations to restrain public
 protest. Some proposals include providing legal immunity for motorists 
who — essentially absent a declaration of intent to injure or kill — 
strike demonstrators standing in a public thoroughfare.

Some proposed laws have been deemed outright to be unconstitutional 
for targeting certain groups or simply for being too broad or too vague.
 But government officials can enact lawful restrictions on “time, place 
and manner” in how we protest. If upheld by the courts, such laws can 
reasonably limit the hours and locations of public demonstrations or 
individual protests, the size of signs or the number of people who can 
gather in public spaces or on sidewalks.

Such laws nonetheless can chill free speech in ways seemingly distant
 from the 45 words of the First Amendment. Being convicted of a felony 
also may mean forfeiting the rights to vote, carry a gun or obtain a 
professional license and negatively can affect your ability to get a job
 or obtain a mortgage.

In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis recently proposed not 
only felony charges on protestors, but also penalties on cities and 
towns deemed not to be taking appropriate law and order measures in 
response to demonstrations. If enacted – and if the provisions survive 
court challenge – Florida would have the harshest anti-protest laws in 
the nation.

DeSantis’ proposal, to be considered when the legislature meets in 
March, includes felony charges for obstructing traffic during an 
“unauthorized” protest or for toppling a monument; an initial “no bail” 
provision for those arrested during a demonstration, and a mandatory 
six-month jail term for anyone who strikes a law enforcement officer 
during a protest. Anyone who organizes or simply donates money to 
protesters would risk penalties under the state’s racketeering laws.

Tennessee’s chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union said that 
the new law “requiring 12-hour holds upon arrest, putting in place 
mandatory minimums and enhancing petty crimes to felony-level offenses …
 will send a message loud and clear that Tennessee is no place to 
exercise your constitutional rights if state or local government 
entities disagree with you.” An op-ed writer in the Memphis Commercial Appeal
 noted in August about the then-proposal that “In George Orwell’s novel 
‘1984,’ the state transforms all manner of innocuous activities into the
 most serious crimes … because in totalitarian societies, any deviation 
from even the smallest part of the system is perceived as a threat to 
the system as a whole.”

U.S. Supreme Court decisions stretching back more than 140 years have
 upheld our rights to assemble and petition. In 1937, the US. Supreme 
Court ruled unanimously in De Jonge v. Oregon that that the right to 
peaceably assemble “for lawful discussion, however unpopular the 
sponsorship, cannot be made a crime.” And in 1939 the court held in 
Hague v. Committee for Industrial Organization that streets and parks “ …
 have immemorially been held in trust for the use of the public and, 
time out of mind, have been used for purposes of assembly, communicating
 thoughts between citizens and discussing public questions.”

Ten years later, Justice William O. Douglas, in 
Terminiello v. City of Chicago, wrote that free speech is intended to “ …
 invite dispute. It may indeed best serve its high purpose when it 
induces a condition of unrest, creates dissatisfaction with conditions 
as they are, or even stirs people to anger … It may strike at prejudices
 and preconceptions and have profound unsettling effects as it presses 
for acceptance of an idea.”

More recent court rulings echo Douglas in acknowledgement that 
protest is inherently disruptive, may well be offensive or cause anguish
 to some, but is protected because of a need for “robust” public 
discussion around public policy and practices.

Yes, democracy is messy — and public demonstrations at times may well
 inconvenience, insult or infuriate you and me. But legislative acts 
designed to restrain, remove or chill our rights to protest are not just
 unconstitutional, but also unpatriotic.

As James Madison, author of the First Amendment, 
once observed about the new nation: “The censorial power is in the 
people over the government, and not in the government over the people.”

Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the
 Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom
 Forum Institute. He can be reached at <a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593729871227.png" alt="Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute. " />
 <figcaption>Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute. </figcaption>
 </figure>When do our First Amendment rights become “wrongs?”Well, when it comes to exercising your rights of free speech, 
assembly and petition in Tennessee, be careful. Setting up a up a tent 
for an overnight stay during a protest could land you in prison for up 
to six years.A new law signed quietly into effect on Nov. 5 by Gov. Bill Lee
 changes the “crime” of overnight camping on state property without a 
permit — aimed at deterring protesters who have done that — from a 
misdemeanor to the much more serious felony. It also provides for 
stricter penalties and minimum jail terms for such clear threats to the 
republic as drawing in chalk on state property or interrupting 
legislators or local officials who are in a meeting.In recent years, police have resorted to “sweeps” during 
demonstrations that operate on the theory of “arrest all and sort them 
out later,” sometimes taking into custody non-protesters simply walking 
to lunch or shopping. The Volunteer State’s new anti-protest law — 
advocates call it “criminal justice reform” — requires a magistrate’s 
intervention to gain early release for anyone sooner than a mandatory 
12-hour minimum stay behind bars.A move in states to silence public protest began about a decade ago, 
around the time of the “Occupy” movement. The latest Tennessee statute 
was sparked by demonstrators who set up camp in Nashville’s War Memorial
 Plaza for nearly two months this year while seeking removal of a bust 
of Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, first leader the Ku Klux Klan, from the state Capitol building.By some reports, as many as 40 states have considered or adopted 
direct or backdoor attempts modeled on a draft law prepared by a 
conservative alliance of legislators and corporations to restrain public
 protest. Some proposals include providing legal immunity for motorists 
who — essentially absent a declaration of intent to injure or kill — 
strike demonstrators standing in a public thoroughfare.Some proposed laws have been deemed outright to be unconstitutional 
for targeting certain groups or simply for being too broad or too vague.
 But government officials can enact lawful restrictions on “time, place 
and manner” in how we protest. If upheld by the courts, such laws can 
reasonably limit the hours and locations of public demonstrations or 
individual protests, the size of signs or the number of people who can 
gather in public spaces or on sidewalks.Such laws nonetheless can chill free speech in ways seemingly distant
 from the 45 words of the First Amendment. Being convicted of a felony 
also may mean forfeiting the rights to vote, carry a gun or obtain a 
professional license and negatively can affect your ability to get a job
 or obtain a mortgage.In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis recently proposed not 
only felony charges on protestors, but also penalties on cities and 
towns deemed not to be taking appropriate law and order measures in 
response to demonstrations. If enacted – and if the provisions survive 
court challenge – Florida would have the harshest anti-protest laws in 
the nation.DeSantis’ proposal, to be considered when the legislature meets in 
March, includes felony charges for obstructing traffic during an 
“unauthorized” protest or for toppling a monument; an initial “no bail” 
provision for those arrested during a demonstration, and a mandatory 
six-month jail term for anyone who strikes a law enforcement officer 
during a protest. Anyone who organizes or simply donates money to 
protesters would risk penalties under the state’s racketeering laws.Tennessee’s chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union said that 
the new law “requiring 12-hour holds upon arrest, putting in place 
mandatory minimums and enhancing petty crimes to felony-level offenses …
 will send a message loud and clear that Tennessee is no place to 
exercise your constitutional rights if state or local government 
entities disagree with you.” An op-ed writer in the Memphis Commercial Appeal
 noted in August about the then-proposal that “In George Orwell’s novel 
‘1984,’ the state transforms all manner of innocuous activities into the
 most serious crimes … because in totalitarian societies, any deviation 
from even the smallest part of the system is perceived as a threat to 
the system as a whole.”U.S. Supreme Court decisions stretching back more than 140 years have
 upheld our rights to assemble and petition. In 1937, the US. Supreme 
Court ruled unanimously in De Jonge v. Oregon that that the right to 
peaceably assemble “for lawful discussion, however unpopular the 
sponsorship, cannot be made a crime.” And in 1939 the court held in 
Hague v. Committee for Industrial Organization that streets and parks “ …
 have immemorially been held in trust for the use of the public and, 
time out of mind, have been used for purposes of assembly, communicating
 thoughts between citizens and discussing public questions.”Ten years later, Justice William O. Douglas, in 
Terminiello v. City of Chicago, wrote that free speech is intended to “ …
 invite dispute. It may indeed best serve its high purpose when it 
induces a condition of unrest, creates dissatisfaction with conditions 
as they are, or even stirs people to anger … It may strike at prejudices
 and preconceptions and have profound unsettling effects as it presses 
for acceptance of an idea.”More recent court rulings echo Douglas in acknowledgement that 
protest is inherently disruptive, may well be offensive or cause anguish
 to some, but is protected because of a need for “robust” public 
discussion around public policy and practices.Yes, democracy is messy — and public demonstrations at times may well
 inconvenience, insult or infuriate you and me. But legislative acts 
designed to restrain, remove or chill our rights to protest are not just
 unconstitutional, but also unpatriotic.As James Madison, author of the First Amendment, 
once observed about the new nation: “The censorial power is in the 
people over the government, and not in the government over the people.”Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the
 Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom
 Forum Institute. He can be reached at <a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

FIRST FIVE: We cannot allow First Amendment rights to become ‘wrongs’

By DAVID JORDAN <a href="https://healthfund.org/a/">United Methodist Health Ministry Fund</a>

A strong health system is critical to thriving rural communities and the health of rural Kansans. Even before COVID-19 began <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/21/nortons-covid-19-infection-rate-highest-ever-recorded-in-kansas/">surging in rural Kansas</a>,
 it was becoming more difficult to sustain health care services in a 
changing Kansas, where the rural health system is starved of resources 
with limited opportunity to innovate.

Significant shifts in 
population make maintaining health care and other important services in 
rural communities more tenuous each year. The &nbsp;2018 Kansas Health 
Foundation Report, <a href="https://kansashealth.org/2018/06/12/ks-demo-report/">“A Changing Kansas: Implications for Health and Communities</a>,”
 outlined dramatic double digit declines in population in rural Kansas 
between 1960 and 2016. Similar depopulation is projected for the state’s
 rural counties through 2066. Additionally, our rural communities are 
aging, with <a href="https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/KS/AGE775219">16.3% &nbsp;of the population of Kansas age 65</a> and over.

One positive trend is that
 Kansas, including its rural communities, is becoming increasingly 
diverse. The only population growth in Kansas this century came from a 
52.5% increase in the minority population (any group other than 
non-Hispanic White). This trend makes it critically important that 
Kansas addresses longstanding racial and ethnic disparities in health, 
poverty rates and educational attainment.

The <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/15048/20-39_adults_county_peer_group_2.pdf">high rate of rural Kansans without health insurance</a>
 is another challenge. Fewer people with health insurance means that 
hospitals are serving a greater proportion of patients who are unable to
 pay all or part of their bill. In addition, rural hospitals’ bottom 
lines have suffered as care shifts from the inpatient to the outpatient 
setting. Since 2010, five rural hospitals have closed and 73% of the 
hospitals in the state are operating at a loss.

Longstanding health care workforce shortages throughout rural Kansas also present a challenge to delivering care.

Kansas needs strong policy
 changes to address the challenges. We must think big, aim to be bold, 
and center equity in the work to improve the health of rural Kansans.&nbsp; 
Here are three things policymakers should consider:

Kansas must expand Medicaid. <a href="http://expandkancare.com/resources/">Expanding Medicaid</a>
 will cut the number of uninsured adults in half, address disparities 
and improve health. This budget positive policy solution will bring 
hundreds of millions of our tax dollars back to Kansas annually and 
create a payment mechanism to protect rural providers’ bottom lines.&nbsp; 
Expansion will also create thousands of rural jobs and offer employment 
opportunities to some of the young people who now leave rural Kansas.

Kansas needs to reimagine the health care workforce. Recruiting
 providers — especially culturally competent ones who meet the social, 
cultural and linguistic needs of patients — to rural Kansas is 
difficult. Other rural states have addressed workforce shortages by 
changing licensing and credentialing policies to make better use of 
providers such as physician’s assistants and <a href="https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2019/06/19/dental-therapy-seen-as-a-best-practice-for-boosting-access-to-care">dental therapists</a> as part of doctor led teams. Adding culturally competent providers such as <a href="https://www.marc.org/Community/KC-Communities-for-All-Ages/PDFs/AP17-CHW-PowerPoint.aspx">community health workers</a>
 to Kansas’ workforce can help patients navigate the health system. Such
 changes will allow Kansas to grow our own workforce. Changes to 
licensing and credentialing policies will be met with resistance but 
experience from other states shows that these changes work.

Kansas, and the federal government, needs to embrace innovation in care delivery and payment.
 Current payment models are stifling innovation. Fee-for-service payment
 requires providers to see high volumes of patients in person. The 
COVID-19 pandemic has led to a loosening of these rules and an expansion
 of telehealth. Sustaining these changes post-pandemic, particularly 
expanding telehealth, is one way to embrace innovation.

In rural communities, 
hospitals are tied to a financing model that limits opportunities to 
deliver care in ways that best meet the needs of each community. 
Loosening critical access hospital rules would benefit rural Kansas by 
allowing the Kansas Hospital Association to pilot the <a href="https://kha-net.org/Advocacy/USCongress/FederalLegislation/d149655.aspx?type=view">Primary Health Center Model</a>
 they developed to offer a sustainable option to provide preventive and 
primary care, chronic disease management and emergency services.

We also know that health is more than health care. <a href="https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hblog20190701.764626/full/">Other states are exploring using Medicaid dollars</a>
 to address the social determinants of health — hunger, housing, 
transportation and early childhood education. Piloting this approach in 
rural Kansas can improve long-term health and reduce costs.

Having healthy residents 
and a sustainable health care system is critical to the vitality and 
viability of our rural communities.

Now, more than ever, <a href="https://www.communityconversationsks.com/">we need to be working towards the future of health</a>
 in our rural communities — a future that ensures all rural Kansans have
 access to care, uses rural residents as members of culturally competent
 health care teams, and innovates based on the needs of communities.

We cannot afford to lose time or another rural hospital. The future of rural Kansas is a stake.

David Jordan is the President of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, a health philanthropy focused on improving the health of Kansans. Before joining the Health Fund, David served as the executive director of the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas, a coalition of more than 100 organizations working to improve access to health care in Kansas. He has more than 20 years of experience leading state and national efforts focused on changing policy to improve health and reduce disparities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605394398252.png" alt="Downtown Oberlin, Kansas, where the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund held a community conversation on the future of rural health in early March. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector) " />
 <figcaption>Downtown Oberlin, Kansas, where the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund held a community conversation on the future of rural health in early March. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector) </figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID JORDAN <a href="https://healthfund.org/a/">United Methodist Health Ministry Fund</a> A strong health system is critical to thriving rural communities and the health of rural Kansans. Even before COVID-19 began <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/21/nortons-covid-19-infection-rate-highest-ever-recorded-in-kansas/">surging in rural Kansas</a>,
 it was becoming more difficult to sustain health care services in a 
changing Kansas, where the rural health system is starved of resources 
with limited opportunity to innovate.Significant shifts in 
population make maintaining health care and other important services in 
rural communities more tenuous each year. The &nbsp;2018 Kansas Health 
Foundation Report, <a href="https://kansashealth.org/2018/06/12/ks-demo-report/">“A Changing Kansas: Implications for Health and Communities</a>,”
 outlined dramatic double digit declines in population in rural Kansas 
between 1960 and 2016. Similar depopulation is projected for the state’s
 rural counties through 2066. Additionally, our rural communities are 
aging, with <a href="https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/KS/AGE775219">16.3% &nbsp;of the population of Kansas age 65</a> and over.One positive trend is that
 Kansas, including its rural communities, is becoming increasingly 
diverse. The only population growth in Kansas this century came from a 
52.5% increase in the minority population (any group other than 
non-Hispanic White). This trend makes it critically important that 
Kansas addresses longstanding racial and ethnic disparities in health, 
poverty rates and educational attainment.The <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/15048/20-39_adults_county_peer_group_2.pdf">high rate of rural Kansans without health insurance</a>
 is another challenge. Fewer people with health insurance means that 
hospitals are serving a greater proportion of patients who are unable to
 pay all or part of their bill. In addition, rural hospitals’ bottom 
lines have suffered as care shifts from the inpatient to the outpatient 
setting. Since 2010, five rural hospitals have closed and 73% of the 
hospitals in the state are operating at a loss.Longstanding health care workforce shortages throughout rural Kansas also present a challenge to delivering care.Kansas needs strong policy
 changes to address the challenges. We must think big, aim to be bold, 
and center equity in the work to improve the health of rural Kansans.&nbsp; 
Here are three things policymakers should consider:Kansas must expand Medicaid. <a href="http://expandkancare.com/resources/">Expanding Medicaid</a>
 will cut the number of uninsured adults in half, address disparities 
and improve health. This budget positive policy solution will bring 
hundreds of millions of our tax dollars back to Kansas annually and 
create a payment mechanism to protect rural providers’ bottom lines.&nbsp; 
Expansion will also create thousands of rural jobs and offer employment 
opportunities to some of the young people who now leave rural Kansas.Kansas needs to reimagine the health care workforce. Recruiting
 providers — especially culturally competent ones who meet the social, 
cultural and linguistic needs of patients — to rural Kansas is 
difficult. Other rural states have addressed workforce shortages by 
changing licensing and credentialing policies to make better use of 
providers such as physician’s assistants and <a href="https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2019/06/19/dental-therapy-seen-as-a-best-practice-for-boosting-access-to-care">dental therapists</a> as part of doctor led teams. Adding culturally competent providers such as <a href="https://www.marc.org/Community/KC-Communities-for-All-Ages/PDFs/AP17-CHW-PowerPoint.aspx">community health workers</a>
 to Kansas’ workforce can help patients navigate the health system. Such
 changes will allow Kansas to grow our own workforce. Changes to 
licensing and credentialing policies will be met with resistance but 
experience from other states shows that these changes work.Kansas, and the federal government, needs to embrace innovation in care delivery and payment.
 Current payment models are stifling innovation. Fee-for-service payment
 requires providers to see high volumes of patients in person. The 
COVID-19 pandemic has led to a loosening of these rules and an expansion
 of telehealth. Sustaining these changes post-pandemic, particularly 
expanding telehealth, is one way to embrace innovation.In rural communities, 
hospitals are tied to a financing model that limits opportunities to 
deliver care in ways that best meet the needs of each community. 
Loosening critical access hospital rules would benefit rural Kansas by 
allowing the Kansas Hospital Association to pilot the <a href="https://kha-net.org/Advocacy/USCongress/FederalLegislation/d149655.aspx?type=view">Primary Health Center Model</a>
 they developed to offer a sustainable option to provide preventive and 
primary care, chronic disease management and emergency services.We also know that health is more than health care. <a href="https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hblog20190701.764626/full/">Other states are exploring using Medicaid dollars</a>
 to address the social determinants of health — hunger, housing, 
transportation and early childhood education. Piloting this approach in 
rural Kansas can improve long-term health and reduce costs.Having healthy residents 
and a sustainable health care system is critical to the vitality and 
viability of our rural communities.Now, more than ever, <a href="https://www.communityconversationsks.com/">we need to be working towards the future of health</a>
 in our rural communities — a future that ensures all rural Kansans have
 access to care, uses rural residents as members of culturally competent
 health care teams, and innovates based on the needs of communities.We cannot afford to lose time or another rural hospital. The future of rural Kansas is a stake.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605394525016.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>David Jordan is the President of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, a health philanthropy focused on improving the health of Kansans. Before joining the Health Fund, David served as the executive director of the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas, a coalition of more than 100 organizations working to improve access to health care in Kansas. He has more than 20 years of experience leading state and national efforts focused on changing policy to improve health and reduce disparities.

OPINION: Three things to make rural Kansas communities healthier

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

<div><iframe title="Ellis businesses preparing for small business Saturday" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/vp5zr-f24478?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Preparations underway for Small Business Saturday in Ellis

In the last two weeks, the state of Kansas and Ellis County have experienced a drastic increase in COVID-
19 cases and hospitalizations. We have seen a four-fold increase in average cases per day. This trend is
both alarming and impactful. Nationwide, medical professionals and care staff are strained. We must
all remember that cases create impacts to families, communities and individuals. 

As cases continue to
increase, so do the impacts. We need everyone's help to mitigate the overall damage of this virus. Each
resident of Ellis County can play a critical role in mitigating this virus by following these guidelines. We
all desire a return to normal but that cannot happen at this time in a safe manner.


Do NOT gather in groups. 
Do social distance. 
Do wash your hands frequently. 
Do wear a mask if you cannot socially distance. 
Do isolate immediately if you feel ill. 
Do call your doctor for questions regarding your symptoms and testing.
Do continue to protect yourself, loved ones and the community.

https://www.ellisco.net/693/Covid-19-Portal


Please read the Hays Medical Center update available here:


https://www.haysmed.com/haysmed-issues-update-on-covid-19-community-
spread/?fbclid=IwAR0uGBRL-EyNUmzOdIK-PkoKHUIWOKHnpVXPvKs946Dc9JkcNfOMGf8KU4Q


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In the last two weeks, the state of Kansas and Ellis County have experienced a drastic increase in COVID-
19 cases and hospitalizations. We have seen a four-fold increase in average cases per day. This trend is
both alarming and impactful. Nationwide, medical professionals and care staff are strained. We must
all remember that cases create impacts to families, communities and individuals. As cases continue to
increase, so do the impacts. We need everyone's help to mitigate the overall damage of this virus. Each
resident of Ellis County can play a critical role in mitigating this virus by following these guidelines. We
all desire a return to normal but that cannot happen at this time in a safe manner.
Do NOT gather in groups. 
Do social distance. 
Do wash your hands frequently. 
Do wear a mask if you cannot socially distance. 
Do isolate immediately if you feel ill. 
Do call your doctor for questions regarding your symptoms and testing.
Do continue to protect yourself, loved ones and the community.
<h2>Case Updates</h2>https://www.ellisco.net/693/Covid-19-Portal
Please read the Hays Medical Center update available here:
https://www.haysmed.com/haysmed-issues-update-on-covid-19-community-
spread/?fbclid=IwAR0uGBRL-EyNUmzOdIK-PkoKHUIWOKHnpVXPvKs946Dc9JkcNfOMGf8KU4Q

Ellis Co. issues statement on COVID-19 spike

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

On Friday, the Ellis County Health Department reported a
<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e6e1a862-fd31-4bda-b058-449432daea15">jump of 186 new COVID-19 cases</a> since Monday.

This week, Hays Mayor Shaun Musil lost a family friend to coronavirus who had no underlying medical conditions.

Musil continues to urge residents to wear face masks, especially as the holiday season begins and families gather together.&nbsp;

"I'm so disappointed in the numbers I've seen this week," Musil said at Thursday's city commission meeting.

"I've seen a video of a bar. I won't name it because it’s not just bars, it’s
everywhere. Dancing like crazy. No masks. ... I hear people say it doesn't matter. It does matter."

Musil, owner of the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Market and Bistro, noted sales at most Hays businesses are down because of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

"All of us businesses are hurting right now."

Musil is worried about the possibility of a large COVID outbreak after Thanksgiving.

"Just think when people go home to Thanksgiving to all these small
towns around here. Students from Fort Hays State University, they may not get sick but they
take it Grandma or Mom and Dad. 

"Please, people, think about other
people and not just yourself.”

The Hays City Commission voted Oct. 2 to extend the
facemask ordinance until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for
14 consecutive days. 

The per-day average in Ellis County has not dropped to that
level since the metric began to be reported.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the seven-day average of percent of positive tests spiked to 40.3 percent. 

There have been 18 COVID-related deaths so far in Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605281462827.jpeg" alt="A family friend of Hays Mayor Shaun Musil, left, died this week of COVID-19." />
 <figcaption>A family friend of Hays Mayor Shaun Musil, left, died this week of COVID-19.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostOn Friday, the Ellis County Health Department reported a
<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e6e1a862-fd31-4bda-b058-449432daea15">jump of 186 new COVID-19 cases</a> since Monday.This week, Hays Mayor Shaun Musil lost a family friend to coronavirus who had no underlying medical conditions.Musil continues to urge residents to wear face masks, especially as the holiday season begins and families gather together.&nbsp;"I'm so disappointed in the numbers I've seen this week," Musil said at Thursday's city commission meeting."I've seen a video of a bar. I won't name it because it’s not just bars, it’s
everywhere. Dancing like crazy. No masks. ... I hear people say it doesn't matter. It does matter."Musil, owner of the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Market and Bistro, noted sales at most Hays businesses are down because of the coronavirus.&nbsp;"All of us businesses are hurting right now."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iNX3ETYfW_U"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Musil is worried about the possibility of a large COVID outbreak after Thanksgiving."Just think when people go home to Thanksgiving to all these small
towns around here. Students from Fort Hays State University, they may not get sick but they
take it Grandma or Mom and Dad. "Please, people, think about other
people and not just yourself.”The Hays City Commission voted Oct. 2 to extend the
facemask ordinance until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for
14 consecutive days. The per-day average in Ellis County has not dropped to that
level since the metric began to be reported.&nbsp;On Wednesday, the seven-day average of percent of positive tests spiked to 40.3 percent. There have been 18 COVID-related deaths so far in Ellis County.

🎥 Mayor on COVID spike: 'Think about other people and not just yourself'

A public hearing will be conducted Nov. 16 by the Hays Area Planning Commission for a request by Hays resident Adam Pray to rezone a tract of grassland east of Big Creek Estates from Agriculture to Residential General.

The Big Creek Estates&nbsp;development was platted in 2004 and is nearly built out. The 5.8 acres to be rezoned directly abuts the east side of Big Creek Estates. It is located&nbsp;north of Reservation Road and&nbsp;west of the Hays Regional Airport, within the 3-mile extra-territorial jurisdiction.

The developer would have to extend sanitary sewer to the lots as part of the Big Creek Sewer&nbsp;District. Each property would have their own private water well.

According to information from PIE Superintendent Curtis Deines, the rezoning request conforms with the Comprehensive Plan and is compatible with the area.

City staff is recommending approval of Pray's request.

A second public hearing will be held&nbsp;for a request by OPG&nbsp;Stonepost Lofts Partners to request a change in zoning from Public&nbsp;Institutional to Residential Multi-Family District at 305 Main, site of the former Washington Elementary School.&nbsp;

Ownership of the property is in transition&nbsp;from Hays USD 489 to OPG Stonepost Lofts Partners which plans to renovate the&nbsp;building into apartments.

City staff is also recommending approval of this rezoning request.&nbsp;

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. Monday. The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11162020-1237">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605048708419.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA public hearing will be conducted Nov. 16 by the Hays Area Planning Commission for a request by Hays resident Adam Pray to rezone a tract of grassland east of Big Creek Estates from Agriculture to Residential General.The Big Creek Estates&nbsp;development was platted in 2004 and is nearly built out. The 5.8 acres to be rezoned directly abuts the east side of Big Creek Estates. It is located&nbsp;north of Reservation Road and&nbsp;west of the Hays Regional Airport, within the 3-mile extra-territorial jurisdiction.The developer would have to extend sanitary sewer to the lots as part of the Big Creek Sewer&nbsp;District. Each property would have their own private water well.According to information from PIE Superintendent Curtis Deines, the rezoning request conforms with the Comprehensive Plan and is compatible with the area.City staff is recommending approval of Pray's request.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605049684701.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A second public hearing will be held&nbsp;for a request by OPG&nbsp;Stonepost Lofts Partners to request a change in zoning from Public&nbsp;Institutional to Residential Multi-Family District at 305 Main, site of the former Washington Elementary School.&nbsp;Ownership of the property is in transition&nbsp;from Hays USD 489 to OPG Stonepost Lofts Partners which plans to renovate the&nbsp;building into apartments.City staff is also recommending approval of this rezoning request.&nbsp;The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. Monday. The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11162020-1237">here</a>.

Public hearing Monday for rezoning east of Big Creek Estates  

The Midwest, including Ellis County, is experiencing record numbers of COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations.&nbsp; The county currently has 1,820 positive patients, which is an increase of 238 cases from a week ago per the <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE</a> tracking website.&nbsp;

We have had total of 236 COVID-19 in patients admitted to HaysMed since the beginning of the pandemic.&nbsp; As of Friday, we have a total of 27 COVID-19 patients in the hospital. We have had a total of 33 deaths since the pandemic began with 20 of those deaths occurring since Oct. 1. It is important to note these statistics are not inherent to Ellis County as we are a regional referral center and receive patients from all over the area. &nbsp;

Please refer to the Ellis County Health website for Ellis County specific information.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health</a>

What does this mean for the hospital, the community and the region in general? &nbsp; The number of beds currently being used for COVID-19 related care has spiked exponentially here and across the Midwest creating a high demand for patient beds. This, during a traditionally busier time of year as people move indoors and other seasonal respiratory viruses are more common. &nbsp;

What is the patient capacity&nbsp;at the hospital?&nbsp; We are licensed for 207 beds at HaysMed but we have a total of 113 beds available for use. However, just because beds are available doesn’t mean that we have enough staff to care for the patients in 113 beds.&nbsp;The number of patients we can care for depends on the acuity of the patient and the number of available staff.&nbsp; The critical number that is most important is the number of staff available.&nbsp; &nbsp;We are doing everything we can to accept everyone we can. &nbsp;As long as we can keep our team healthy and able to take care of patients, then we will continue to be able to accept patients. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

How close are you to meeting that capacity?&nbsp; Capacity at HaysMed is an ever-changing variable.&nbsp; There are days when we reach capacity and have to divert patients.&nbsp; This has happened even when we were not in the COVID-19 pandemic but lately it is happening more frequently due to the influx of COVID-19 patients. &nbsp;

What does it mean to divert or transfer patients? When we reach a stage where we don’t have any more staff to care for patients, we cannot accept new patient transfers from other hospitals.&nbsp; These transfers are not only COVID related but also include patients who have had heart attacks, strokes and other medical emergency situations.&nbsp; We then must try and find other facilities that can take the patient.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Does the Emergency Room ever close? No.&nbsp; Even on the rare occasions when patients are diverted, our emergency room remains open to all those who need emergency care.&nbsp; However, if beds and staffing cannot permit us to admit you, we will work to find another hospital with capacity which may mean receiving care in another city, county or state.

How is COVID-19 impacting transfers?&nbsp; If we are at capacity, we request to transfer a patient to another hospital.&nbsp; It is increasingly difficult to find a hospital that can accept a patient because they, too, are experiencing high census due to COVID.&nbsp; This can affect COVID-19 patients as well as other medical needs including heart attack, stroke, or trauma. Requests for transfers are coming to the health system from as far away as Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, and Nebraska.&nbsp; Such needs to transfer delays medical care and potentially sends patients far away from home.&nbsp;

What measures are in place should the hospital reach patient capacity? Our health system hospitals manage patient flow every day and have emergency plans for handling a surge in patients whether from trauma or, in this case, a pandemic. However, COVID-19 has forced the hospital to take more critical measures including but not limited to:&nbsp;

Is it safe to come to HaysMed?&nbsp; YES.&nbsp; Hospitals and clinics are currently considered the safest place in every community during this pandemic as the pillars of infection prevention and control are strictly followed and enforced. Telehealth is also a recommended option for healthcare during this pandemic when a conversation with your provider meets your needs.&nbsp; While your experience visiting our facilities to receive care or support a loved one may look and feel a bit different, be assured that what is not different is our commitment to your health and safety, and that of your loved ones.

What can the public do to help this situation? As the number of COVID-19 patients at HaysMed and across the Midwest rise exponentially, it is critical for us to work together to slow the virus spread to avoid overwhelming hospitals and healthcare workers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Help keep everyone safe: 
* wear masks that cover your nose and mouth when in public *consider eye protection, especially when flying *maintain a 6-foot distance with those outside your immediate household *wash and/or sanitize your hands thoroughly and often&nbsp; *avoid gatherings where social distancing is not possible. &nbsp; *Stay home if you are ill&nbsp; *Do not let down your guard!

We recognize people are weary of the pandemic and this includes healthcare workers. HaysMed is committed to doing whatever it takes to protect your health and well-being and you play a critical part in our ability to provide that care. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Can I assess my risk for attending a group gathering? Yes.&nbsp; Have a plan and ask questions.&nbsp; Know how many people will attend and assume that everyone you meet may carry the SARS-CoV-2 virus.&nbsp; Take the pillars of infection prevention and control with you.&nbsp; The COVID-19 Event Risk Assessment Planning Tool is interactive and shows the current virus spread across the U.S. &nbsp; <a href="https://covid19risk.biosci.gatech.edu/?fbclid=IwAR168Jpexddvg_gS4JjiX810qsjvwxhEQmOIUu37hCIkbIX7y8J84HqnXHI">https://covid19risk.biosci.gatech.edu/?fbclid=IwAR168Jpexddvg_gS4JjiX810qsjvwxhEQmOIUu37hCIkbIX7y8J84HqnXHI</a>

Link to the KDHE's COVID-19 Microsite.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>

Link to the Ellis County Health Department that has the latest COVID-19 information for Ellis County.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health</a>

Link to the CDC&nbsp; <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584140055070.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedThe Midwest, including Ellis County, is experiencing record numbers of COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations.&nbsp; The county currently has 1,820 positive patients, which is an increase of 238 cases from a week ago per the <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE</a> tracking website.&nbsp;We have had total of 236 COVID-19 in patients admitted to HaysMed since the beginning of the pandemic.&nbsp; As of Friday, we have a total of 27 COVID-19 patients in the hospital. We have had a total of 33 deaths since the pandemic began with 20 of those deaths occurring since Oct. 1. It is important to note these statistics are not inherent to Ellis County as we are a regional referral center and receive patients from all over the area. &nbsp;Please refer to the Ellis County Health website for Ellis County specific information.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health</a><h2>FAQs</h2>What does this mean for the hospital, the community and the region in general? &nbsp; The number of beds currently being used for COVID-19 related care has spiked exponentially here and across the Midwest creating a high demand for patient beds. This, during a traditionally busier time of year as people move indoors and other seasonal respiratory viruses are more common. &nbsp;What is the patient capacity&nbsp;at the hospital?&nbsp; We are licensed for 207 beds at HaysMed but we have a total of 113 beds available for use. However, just because beds are available doesn’t mean that we have enough staff to care for the patients in 113 beds.&nbsp;The number of patients we can care for depends on the acuity of the patient and the number of available staff.&nbsp; The critical number that is most important is the number of staff available.&nbsp; &nbsp;We are doing everything we can to accept everyone we can. &nbsp;As long as we can keep our team healthy and able to take care of patients, then we will continue to be able to accept patients. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How close are you to meeting that capacity?&nbsp; Capacity at HaysMed is an ever-changing variable.&nbsp; There are days when we reach capacity and have to divert patients.&nbsp; This has happened even when we were not in the COVID-19 pandemic but lately it is happening more frequently due to the influx of COVID-19 patients. &nbsp;What does it mean to divert or transfer patients? When we reach a stage where we don’t have any more staff to care for patients, we cannot accept new patient transfers from other hospitals.&nbsp; These transfers are not only COVID related but also include patients who have had heart attacks, strokes and other medical emergency situations.&nbsp; We then must try and find other facilities that can take the patient.&nbsp; &nbsp;Does the Emergency Room ever close? No.&nbsp; Even on the rare occasions when patients are diverted, our emergency room remains open to all those who need emergency care.&nbsp; However, if beds and staffing cannot permit us to admit you, we will work to find another hospital with capacity which may mean receiving care in another city, county or state.How is COVID-19 impacting transfers?&nbsp; If we are at capacity, we request to transfer a patient to another hospital.&nbsp; It is increasingly difficult to find a hospital that can accept a patient because they, too, are experiencing high census due to COVID.&nbsp; This can affect COVID-19 patients as well as other medical needs including heart attack, stroke, or trauma. Requests for transfers are coming to the health system from as far away as Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, and Nebraska.&nbsp; Such needs to transfer delays medical care and potentially sends patients far away from home.&nbsp;What measures are in place should the hospital reach patient capacity? Our health system hospitals manage patient flow every day and have emergency plans for handling a surge in patients whether from trauma or, in this case, a pandemic. However, COVID-19 has forced the hospital to take more critical measures including but not limited to:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Delaying non-urgent elective surgery and procedures to free beds and staff for COVID-19 patients</li><li>Restricting visitors to decrease the spread of COVID-19</li><li>Manage PPE and medical supplies needed to care for COVID-19 patients</li><li>Keep constant contact with the Ellis County Health Department, The University of Kansas Health System, Fort Hays State University, Ellis County Schools, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Kansas Hospital Association to monitor the situation.</li>
 </ul>Is it safe to come to HaysMed?&nbsp; YES.&nbsp; Hospitals and clinics are currently considered the safest place in every community during this pandemic as the pillars of infection prevention and control are strictly followed and enforced. Telehealth is also a recommended option for healthcare during this pandemic when a conversation with your provider meets your needs.&nbsp; While your experience visiting our facilities to receive care or support a loved one may look and feel a bit different, be assured that what is not different is our commitment to your health and safety, and that of your loved ones.What can the public do to help this situation? As the number of COVID-19 patients at HaysMed and across the Midwest rise exponentially, it is critical for us to work together to slow the virus spread to avoid overwhelming hospitals and healthcare workers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Help keep everyone safe: 
* wear masks that cover your nose and mouth when in public *consider eye protection, especially when flying *maintain a 6-foot distance with those outside your immediate household *wash and/or sanitize your hands thoroughly and often&nbsp; *avoid gatherings where social distancing is not possible. &nbsp; *Stay home if you are ill&nbsp; *Do not let down your guard!We recognize people are weary of the pandemic and this includes healthcare workers. HaysMed is committed to doing whatever it takes to protect your health and well-being and you play a critical part in our ability to provide that care. &nbsp; &nbsp;Can I assess my risk for attending a group gathering? Yes.&nbsp; Have a plan and ask questions.&nbsp; Know how many people will attend and assume that everyone you meet may carry the SARS-CoV-2 virus.&nbsp; Take the pillars of infection prevention and control with you.&nbsp; The COVID-19 Event Risk Assessment Planning Tool is interactive and shows the current virus spread across the U.S. &nbsp; <a href="https://covid19risk.biosci.gatech.edu/?fbclid=IwAR168Jpexddvg_gS4JjiX810qsjvwxhEQmOIUu37hCIkbIX7y8J84HqnXHI">https://covid19risk.biosci.gatech.edu/?fbclid=IwAR168Jpexddvg_gS4JjiX810qsjvwxhEQmOIUu37hCIkbIX7y8J84HqnXHI</a><h2>Helpful Links</h2>Link to the KDHE's COVID-19 Microsite.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>Link to the Ellis County Health Department that has the latest COVID-19 information for Ellis County.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health</a>Link to the CDC&nbsp; <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html</a>

HaysMed issues statement on spike in COVID-19 cases

Military-connected students now have the opportunity to complete Officer Candidate School (OCS) training as a result of a new partnership between Fort Hays State University and the Kansas Army National Guard (KSARNG). In addition, all students will be able to learn more about the military experience by taking Military Science classes through the Department of Leadership Studies before they commit to the OCS program.

Captain CPT Lonnie McIntyre, a platoon trainer/instructor for the 1st Battalion, 235th Regiment (OCS/WOCS) in Salina, was assigned to the FHSU instructor’s position by the Kansas National Guard earlier this year and made the trip to Hays for FHSU’s first class this semester. Fundamentals of Soldiering was an eight-week face-to-face course, and three more classes will be available in the spring.

OCS is one of the U.S. Army’s primary training programs for prospective Army officers.&nbsp;The program is generally open to qualified&nbsp;enlisted service members, noncommissioned&nbsp;officers and civilians who hold – or have nearly completed – a four-year college degree.

Dr. Seth Kastle,&nbsp;assistant professor of Leadership Studies and the university’s director of military program innovation,&nbsp;also wants to give all students the opportunity to explore a possible military career without a long-term commitment.

“There are tremendous opportunities for career advancement with the Kansas Army National Guard and being a commissioned officer,” Kastle said.&nbsp;Candidates who successfully complete the rigorous OCS program receive formal commissions in the Kansas Army National Guard (KSARNG) as Second Lieutenants.&nbsp;

Candidates wishing to complete the FHSU OCS program must be current members of the KSARNG, who have completed 90 college credit hours, basic combat training, and OCS Phase I in Salina. During their senior year of college, candidates will complete two courses, one in each of the fall and spring semesters which will comprise Phase II of the commissioning process.&nbsp;

The two courses for Phase II are&nbsp;Platoon and Staff Leadership I and II, which will be offered for the first time in spring 2021. Fundamentals of Soldiering will be moved online for the spring semester, and Military Leadership Development will also be available next spring. All classes other than Platoon and Staff Leadership I and II are available to all FHSU students without incurring a commitment to the KSARNG.

Other courses being developed are: Introduction to The U.S. Army, Military Instruction, Army Physical Fitness and Nutrition and Basic Army Field Training.

Upon graduating from FHSU, Officer Candidates will attend Phase III of OCS at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington State.&nbsp;

“This program is just one of several examples of FHSU pursuing new and innovative ways to engage the military and better serve current and former members of our nation’s armed forces,” Kastle said.

A native of North Carolina, who has been in the military for more than 25 years, McIntyre became interested in the military at a young age after attending his older sister’s graduation from the basic trailing when he was 8 years old. He began his career in 1993 with the North Carolina National Guard and said his experience there made him realize the military could be a rewarding career.&nbsp;He went on to serve in the active duty Army, the U.S. Marine Corps, the Air Force Reserve and the U.S. Army Reserve before receiving his commission through the Army National Guard Officer Candidate School.&nbsp;

McIntyre, who has received numerous federal military awards and decorations,&nbsp;earned&nbsp;a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Ashford (Calif.) University and a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership from Liberty (Va.) University.&nbsp;

“FHSU is extremely fortunate to have an officer and leader the caliber of CPT McIntyre to lead this partnership and the OCS Program,” Kastle said.&nbsp;

McIntyre moved to Salina two years ago and was pleased to be assigned to the FHSU instructor’s position.

“We are all looking forward to growing the program, and everyone at Fort Hays State has been great to work with and has been very supportive,” he said. “This will definitely help students wishing to complete the OCS and also will help any student make some informed decisions and learn about all the opportunities that a military career can offer.”

More information about the OCS program can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtFeBwmbFr542ttlaHoaIQ6GpSjvXB6Q37MUgwCSJ5ccyEoSE6kVgvJSugZfqTWzcRXHJLnVeFWwfJYKkvFjO0Fc-3D1kpo_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BNc0RcwXO6cNmvZeJqGIvN-2BO8zxYAByWhJseClYP9VZDv-2FdoXthxuzHw6g-2Fry2e1t7V5mkY-2FynVTdGhBgUVBgn3-2FvcO4lK8b7yb3KkwczB9tCuaFD0ph1Fhb6w96UgHDHE-2FUMkLrvexQlYpCc0sk5Hyr4qTjAwzBd83etMbwb0onGzTCiL-2Fufx1mL8e0HAUoVyQ40NE-2Frv9zK9ZtMxIcs-2FHsFJ5aPCj67OlmFeNwQupRM56BVz3oAYU54ge6Xyt-2FATH-2FZu4N0Oo7hBrFZQw2VmQ-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/ocs.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605107260905.jpeg" alt="Captain CPT Lonnie McIntyre" />
 <figcaption>Captain CPT Lonnie McIntyre</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsMilitary-connected students now have the opportunity to complete Officer Candidate School (OCS) training as a result of a new partnership between Fort Hays State University and the Kansas Army National Guard (KSARNG). In addition, all students will be able to learn more about the military experience by taking Military Science classes through the Department of Leadership Studies before they commit to the OCS program.Captain CPT Lonnie McIntyre, a platoon trainer/instructor for the 1st Battalion, 235th Regiment (OCS/WOCS) in Salina, was assigned to the FHSU instructor’s position by the Kansas National Guard earlier this year and made the trip to Hays for FHSU’s first class this semester. Fundamentals of Soldiering was an eight-week face-to-face course, and three more classes will be available in the spring.OCS is one of the U.S. Army’s primary training programs for prospective Army officers.&nbsp;The program is generally open to qualified&nbsp;enlisted service members, noncommissioned&nbsp;officers and civilians who hold – or have nearly completed – a four-year college degree.Dr. Seth Kastle,&nbsp;assistant professor of Leadership Studies and the university’s director of military program innovation,&nbsp;also wants to give all students the opportunity to explore a possible military career without a long-term commitment.“There are tremendous opportunities for career advancement with the Kansas Army National Guard and being a commissioned officer,” Kastle said.&nbsp;Candidates who successfully complete the rigorous OCS program receive formal commissions in the Kansas Army National Guard (KSARNG) as Second Lieutenants.&nbsp;Candidates wishing to complete the FHSU OCS program must be current members of the KSARNG, who have completed 90 college credit hours, basic combat training, and OCS Phase I in Salina. During their senior year of college, candidates will complete two courses, one in each of the fall and spring semesters which will comprise Phase II of the commissioning process.&nbsp;The two courses for Phase II are&nbsp;Platoon and Staff Leadership I and II, which will be offered for the first time in spring 2021. Fundamentals of Soldiering will be moved online for the spring semester, and Military Leadership Development will also be available next spring. All classes other than Platoon and Staff Leadership I and II are available to all FHSU students without incurring a commitment to the KSARNG.Other courses being developed are: Introduction to The U.S. Army, Military Instruction, Army Physical Fitness and Nutrition and Basic Army Field Training.Upon graduating from FHSU, Officer Candidates will attend Phase III of OCS at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington State.&nbsp;“This program is just one of several examples of FHSU pursuing new and innovative ways to engage the military and better serve current and former members of our nation’s armed forces,” Kastle said.A native of North Carolina, who has been in the military for more than 25 years, McIntyre became interested in the military at a young age after attending his older sister’s graduation from the basic trailing when he was 8 years old. He began his career in 1993 with the North Carolina National Guard and said his experience there made him realize the military could be a rewarding career.&nbsp;He went on to serve in the active duty Army, the U.S. Marine Corps, the Air Force Reserve and the U.S. Army Reserve before receiving his commission through the Army National Guard Officer Candidate School.&nbsp;McIntyre, who has received numerous federal military awards and decorations,&nbsp;earned&nbsp;a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Ashford (Calif.) University and a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership from Liberty (Va.) University.&nbsp;“FHSU is extremely fortunate to have an officer and leader the caliber of CPT McIntyre to lead this partnership and the OCS Program,” Kastle said.&nbsp;McIntyre moved to Salina two years ago and was pleased to be assigned to the FHSU instructor’s position.“We are all looking forward to growing the program, and everyone at Fort Hays State has been great to work with and has been very supportive,” he said. “This will definitely help students wishing to complete the OCS and also will help any student make some informed decisions and learn about all the opportunities that a military career can offer.”More information about the OCS program can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtFeBwmbFr542ttlaHoaIQ6GpSjvXB6Q37MUgwCSJ5ccyEoSE6kVgvJSugZfqTWzcRXHJLnVeFWwfJYKkvFjO0Fc-3D1kpo_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BNc0RcwXO6cNmvZeJqGIvN-2BO8zxYAByWhJseClYP9VZDv-2FdoXthxuzHw6g-2Fry2e1t7V5mkY-2FynVTdGhBgUVBgn3-2FvcO4lK8b7yb3KkwczB9tCuaFD0ph1Fhb6w96UgHDHE-2FUMkLrvexQlYpCc0sk5Hyr4qTjAwzBd83etMbwb0onGzTCiL-2Fufx1mL8e0HAUoVyQ40NE-2Frv9zK9ZtMxIcs-2FHsFJ5aPCj67OlmFeNwQupRM56BVz3oAYU54ge6Xyt-2FATH-2FZu4N0Oo7hBrFZQw2VmQ-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/ocs.</a>

New Officer Candidate School program underway at FHSU

The Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a bridge replacement project on K-18 in Russell County the week of Nov. 16.

The bridge is located just east of the east U.S. 281 junction near Luray. Work this winter will consist of constructing a shoofly detour in preparation for the bridge closure and replacement that will begin in March 2021. The project is expected to be fully completed in December 2021, weather permitting.

L&amp;M Contractors of Great Bend is the primary contractor for the $1.4 million project.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a bridge replacement project on K-18 in Russell County the week of Nov. 16.The bridge is located just east of the east U.S. 281 junction near Luray. Work this winter will consist of constructing a shoofly detour in preparation for the bridge closure and replacement that will begin in March 2021. The project is expected to be fully completed in December 2021, weather permitting.L&amp;M Contractors of Great Bend is the primary contractor for the $1.4 million project.&nbsp;

KDOT to replace bridge on K-18 in Russell County

Three-day weather outlook

During the pandemic, kids are being especially hit hard with the cancelation of many events and moving to online learning for school

 Old Chicago Hays celebrated Cinco de Mayo in October this year, with the goal of donating the proceeds from the sale of their Cinco de Mayo t-shirts to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County.

The proceeds totaled $725, and Jennie Bates, Big Brother Big Sisters Northwest Kansas executive director, said the donation would help impact their programs and the kids they support, especially during this time. 

Old Chicago Hays is always looking for ways to give back to the community that supports them. Big Brothers Big Sisters received their donation on Friday, Nov. 6, and the live video can be viewed on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OldChicagoHays/videos/2698264117053378/?__cft__[0]=AZWsFQMiJX1dqIjPuo0as6raen_E6Hrv321UkoQn4IaiAGp-kgwSz0RJZZOAHJ4KtoUoCcTIpxws5_DK07KicoeVBJXd4fwJd8pZHWI1O1LKaL1v0wPAHitcgodJv4QSx7PIGXQ-wFjI7_cNzzBmi4LB0l5UR5NB31lNtoBzSaBKWQ&amp;__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R">Facebook here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605028718955.png" alt="Ellis County Big Brothers Big Sisters' Jenny Bates (fourth from left) accepts a donation from Old Chicago Hays on Nov. 6." />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Big Brothers Big Sisters' Jenny Bates (fourth from left) accepts a donation from Old Chicago Hays on Nov. 6.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the pandemic, kids are being especially hit hard with the cancelation of many events and moving to online learning for school Old Chicago Hays celebrated Cinco de Mayo in October this year, with the goal of donating the proceeds from the sale of their Cinco de Mayo t-shirts to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County.The proceeds totaled $725, and Jennie Bates, Big Brother Big Sisters Northwest Kansas executive director, said the donation would help impact their programs and the kids they support, especially during this time. Old Chicago Hays is always looking for ways to give back to the community that supports them. Big Brothers Big Sisters received their donation on Friday, Nov. 6, and the live video can be viewed on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OldChicagoHays/videos/2698264117053378/?__cft__[0]=AZWsFQMiJX1dqIjPuo0as6raen_E6Hrv321UkoQn4IaiAGp-kgwSz0RJZZOAHJ4KtoUoCcTIpxws5_DK07KicoeVBJXd4fwJd8pZHWI1O1LKaL1v0wPAHitcgodJv4QSx7PIGXQ-wFjI7_cNzzBmi4LB0l5UR5NB31lNtoBzSaBKWQ&amp;__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R">Facebook here</a>.- Submitted

BBBS receives donation from Old Chicago Hays fundraiser

LENEXA— Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz Thursday announced the recipients of more than $6 million in funds provided by two programs that invest in technology and local community transportation needs.

The announcement marked the first-ever awards for KDOT’s Innovative Technology program made possible by the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, or IKE, the 10-year transportation program approved by the 2020 Kansas Legislature and signed into law by Governor Kelly, to address infrastructure needs across the state.

“My administration is committed to supporting the kinds of programs and partnerships that allow us to take care of today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s opportunities for growth – the 10-year, bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program is testament to that,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Through these programs, we will continue to strengthen our state’s infrastructure, promote economic development, and improve access to new and evolving transportation technology. ”

Five Innovative Technology projects totaling $1.3 million were announced today. The program provides financial assistance to partners for innovative technology projects that improve safety and increase KDOT’s total technology investment.

Governor Kelly and Secretary Lorenz also announced the Fall 2020 recipients of KDOT’s Cost Share Program. More than $4.9 million will support 14 transportation construction projects funded through state and local partnerships that improve safety, support job retention and growth, improve access or mobility, and relieve congestion.

Both programs are designed to help both rural and urban areas of the state improve transportation systems.

The announcement, which took place at the Lenexa Civic Center, highlighted the wide range of investments that can be made under the IKE program, which is the state’s most responsive and flexible transportation program to date.

Projects announced included a smart infrastructure project in Lenexa using embedded sensors that can connect with vehicles to improve traffic flows and a shared-use path in Lebo that will connect the city’s downtown with a business park.

“Many of the projects announced today have been long-standing problems in communities that the state hasn’t been able to tackle,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Collectively, these projects make&nbsp;travel&nbsp;safer, upgrade our infrastructure, provide more mobility options&nbsp;and&nbsp;deliver necessary innovations to foster economic growth.&nbsp;They solve old problems and provide new&nbsp;opportunities.”

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDExMTIuMzAzNTMwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lm9yZy9Bc3NldHMvd3d3a3Nkb3RvcmcvSUtFL0RvY3VtZW50cy9JVC1hbmQtQ1MtYXdhcmRzLU5vdmVtYmVyLTIwMjAucGRmIn0.DGCDAccZRLiWhkElLiLC-Fixwft8AHA7uejY13E1YiY/s/1303161066/br/88592512774-l" target="_blank">The list of all 19 projects can be found by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605211925282.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTLENEXA— Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz Thursday announced the recipients of more than $6 million in funds provided by two programs that invest in technology and local community transportation needs.The announcement marked the first-ever awards for KDOT’s Innovative Technology program made possible by the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, or IKE, the 10-year transportation program approved by the 2020 Kansas Legislature and signed into law by Governor Kelly, to address infrastructure needs across the state.“My administration is committed to supporting the kinds of programs and partnerships that allow us to take care of today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s opportunities for growth – the 10-year, bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program is testament to that,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Through these programs, we will continue to strengthen our state’s infrastructure, promote economic development, and improve access to new and evolving transportation technology. ”Five Innovative Technology projects totaling $1.3 million were announced today. The program provides financial assistance to partners for innovative technology projects that improve safety and increase KDOT’s total technology investment.Governor Kelly and Secretary Lorenz also announced the Fall 2020 recipients of KDOT’s Cost Share Program. More than $4.9 million will support 14 transportation construction projects funded through state and local partnerships that improve safety, support job retention and growth, improve access or mobility, and relieve congestion.Both programs are designed to help both rural and urban areas of the state improve transportation systems.The announcement, which took place at the Lenexa Civic Center, highlighted the wide range of investments that can be made under the IKE program, which is the state’s most responsive and flexible transportation program to date.Projects announced included a smart infrastructure project in Lenexa using embedded sensors that can connect with vehicles to improve traffic flows and a shared-use path in Lebo that will connect the city’s downtown with a business park.“Many of the projects announced today have been long-standing problems in communities that the state hasn’t been able to tackle,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Collectively, these projects make&nbsp;travel&nbsp;safer, upgrade our infrastructure, provide more mobility options&nbsp;and&nbsp;deliver necessary innovations to foster economic growth.&nbsp;They solve old problems and provide new&nbsp;opportunities.”<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDExMTIuMzAzNTMwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lm9yZy9Bc3NldHMvd3d3a3Nkb3RvcmcvSUtFL0RvY3VtZW50cy9JVC1hbmQtQ1MtYXdhcmRzLU5vdmVtYmVyLTIwMjAucGRmIn0.DGCDAccZRLiWhkElLiLC-Fixwft8AHA7uejY13E1YiY/s/1303161066/br/88592512774-l" target="_blank">The list of all 19 projects can be found by clicking here.</a>

Colby, Smith County awarded in new KDOT Innovative Technology program  

TOPEKA – The coronavirus pandemic has altered countless events in 2020 and this year’s KLA Convention is no exception. In an effort to abide by spacing requirements and health regulations, KLA leadership and staff made the decision to condense the meeting to one day, Thursday, December 3, at the Wichita Hyatt and Century II Convention Center. Although the schedule will be abbreviated, there still will be time to hear from industry leaders, discuss important issues and set policy for the coming year.&nbsp;

CattleFax Chief Executive Officer Randy Blach will kick off the convention by offering his perspective on the cattle and beef markets during Thursday morning’s Beef Industry University, sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas. 

He will take a top-to-bottom look at the beef industry, from projected feed and energy costs to prospects for cattle numbers, total beef production, exports and beef demand. With two black swan events occurring over the last 18 months further exposing the need for additional shackle space and the importance of supply chain continuity, Blach also will discuss packing capacity and what that means for future growth in the cattle business.

During the Thursday afternoon KLA membership meeting, Elanco Animal Health Chief Sustainability Officer Sara Place will discuss the strides made thus far in livestock production to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint and highlight opportunities for further improvement. 

Prior to joining Elanco last year, Place served as senior director of sustainable beef production research for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, where she oversaw the checkoff-funded life cycle assessment used to benchmark the sustainability of the U.S. beef industry.

KLA members will review existing policy and consider new resolutions during committee and council meetings at the convention. Among policy issues expected to be discussed are&nbsp;<a>tax structure differences, the Beef Industry Long Range Plan, conservation easement funding and trade agreements</a>. Final policy consideration will come during the business meeting at the end of the convention.

Schedule and registration information is available on <a href="https://www.kla.org/">www.kla.org</a> or in the November/December&nbsp;Kansas Stockman. All livestock producers are welcome to attend. At this time, Sedgwick County has adopted a county facemask mandate. As a result, KLA and the Hyatt Regency require facemasks to attend the convention. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available to all attendees.&nbsp;

KLA works to advance members’ common business interests on legislative, regulatory and industry issues affecting producers at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596485688217.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KLATOPEKA – The coronavirus pandemic has altered countless events in 2020 and this year’s KLA Convention is no exception. In an effort to abide by spacing requirements and health regulations, KLA leadership and staff made the decision to condense the meeting to one day, Thursday, December 3, at the Wichita Hyatt and Century II Convention Center. Although the schedule will be abbreviated, there still will be time to hear from industry leaders, discuss important issues and set policy for the coming year.&nbsp;CattleFax Chief Executive Officer Randy Blach will kick off the convention by offering his perspective on the cattle and beef markets during Thursday morning’s Beef Industry University, sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas. He will take a top-to-bottom look at the beef industry, from projected feed and energy costs to prospects for cattle numbers, total beef production, exports and beef demand. With two black swan events occurring over the last 18 months further exposing the need for additional shackle space and the importance of supply chain continuity, Blach also will discuss packing capacity and what that means for future growth in the cattle business.During the Thursday afternoon KLA membership meeting, Elanco Animal Health Chief Sustainability Officer Sara Place will discuss the strides made thus far in livestock production to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint and highlight opportunities for further improvement. Prior to joining Elanco last year, Place served as senior director of sustainable beef production research for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, where she oversaw the checkoff-funded life cycle assessment used to benchmark the sustainability of the U.S. beef industry.KLA members will review existing policy and consider new resolutions during committee and council meetings at the convention. Among policy issues expected to be discussed are&nbsp;<a>tax structure differences, the Beef Industry Long Range Plan, conservation easement funding and trade agreements</a>. Final policy consideration will come during the business meeting at the end of the convention.Schedule and registration information is available on <a href="https://www.kla.org/">www.kla.org</a> or in the November/December&nbsp;Kansas Stockman. All livestock producers are welcome to attend. At this time, Sedgwick County has adopted a county facemask mandate. As a result, KLA and the Hyatt Regency require facemasks to attend the convention. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available to all attendees.&nbsp;KLA works to advance members’ common business interests on legislative, regulatory and industry issues affecting producers at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.&nbsp;

KLA convention condensed to one day

ELLIS — In a statement Friday afternoon, the Good Samaritan Society, 1101 Spruce in Ellis, said 13 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the facility, along with three deaths.

"We are grieving with the families of these residents," said&nbsp;Sharon Leuenberger,&nbsp;&nbsp;Good Samaritan Society-Ellis administrator.&nbsp;"Good Samaritan Society-Ellis&nbsp;continues to take extra precautions and is using vigorous infection control measures while also working closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

"The health, safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the community we serve remain our top priority," she added.

ELLIS — In a statement Friday afternoon, the Good Samaritan Society, 1101 Spruce in Ellis, said 13 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the facility, along with three deaths."We are grieving with the families of these residents," said&nbsp;Sharon Leuenberger,&nbsp;&nbsp;Good Samaritan Society-Ellis administrator.&nbsp;"Good Samaritan Society-Ellis&nbsp;continues to take extra precautions and is using vigorous infection control measures while also working closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment."The health, safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the community we serve remain our top priority," she added.

Three deaths, 13 COVID cases announced at Ellis Good Samaritan Society 

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days again jumped from 25 on Wednesday to 30 on Friday.

On Oct. 2, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days. The per-day average in Ellis County has not dropped to that level since the metric began to be reported.&nbsp;

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

There were 84 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 340 active cases, including 11 active hospitalizations, and 1,362 recovered cases.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose to 41 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 1,820 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 18 deaths.

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.

<div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: Nov. 13, 2020" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/kd7ec-f21d39?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605291135096.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 jumped from 25 on Wednesday to 30 on Friday.On Oct. 2, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days. The per-day average in Ellis County has not dropped to that level since the metric began to be reported.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/095697ac-eb4b-4005-867a-bb049ec8c10f">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays commissioners vote to extend mask ordinance</a>There were 84 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 340 active cases, including 11 active hospitalizations, and 1,362 recovered cases.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose to 41 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 1,820 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 18 deaths.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/2020/11/1605303100654.png" alt="" />
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 </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>

🎙COVID case average continues to rise in Ellis Co.; Kennedy discusses

Organizers are taking reservations for the free Community Thanksgiving Feast until Saturday, Nov. 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Meals cannot be guaranteed for people who do not pre-register,” said the Rev. Celeste Lasich, head of the organizing committee.

The feast will be a drive-through, food pick-up event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, at Gella’s Diner, 117 E. 11th&nbsp;St.&nbsp;

In addition, First Call for Help will be delivering meals that day to its Meals on Wheels clients, the elderly, homebound, disabled, and quarantined individuals through contactless delivery.&nbsp;&nbsp;To sign-up for the free delivery service, individuals who meet one of those criteria may call First Call for Help at 785-623-2800.

All others must pre-register at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fsignup.com%2fgo%2fNXaeNyy&amp;c=E,1,d30BkGR5FWZ8yoIxMNQ_-Y6g8Ugpoz0KGuS-NPwdmN0iYN68PQMpop9DD58IJb5quemxpRSqZljIoIB8fd63cHnuvuu2Bf1ykC7_dxZPNLHbtOTQGKK77w,,&amp;typo=1" target="_blank">https://signup.com/go/NXaeNyy</a>, specifying the number of meals they will need. The website will ask them to select a pickup time.

Also, bags of groceries will be distributed free of charge from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day at the Community Assistance Center, 208 E. 12th&nbsp;St.

Lasich said that, as in the past, there are no income requirements for an individual wanting a sack of groceries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The sacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as supplies last.&nbsp;

The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance (ECMA), which has <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1cef467d7daa72b30eacfa">organized the feast</a> for the past 12 years, is once again the sponsor. Those wishing to volunteer may call 785-623-2800.

Monetary donations to help cover the cost of the traditional Thanksgiving feast may be mailed to ECMA,&nbsp;P.O. Box 173, Hays, KS 67601, with a note in the memo line to benefit ECMA’s 2nd&nbsp;Mile Fund.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603391175488.jpeg" alt="(Ph0t0 credit: Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>(Ph0t0 credit: Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOrganizers are taking reservations for the free Community Thanksgiving Feast until Saturday, Nov. 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Meals cannot be guaranteed for people who do not pre-register,” said the Rev. Celeste Lasich, head of the organizing committee.The feast will be a drive-through, food pick-up event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, at Gella’s Diner, 117 E. 11th&nbsp;St.&nbsp;In addition, First Call for Help will be delivering meals that day to its Meals on Wheels clients, the elderly, homebound, disabled, and quarantined individuals through contactless delivery.&nbsp;&nbsp;To sign-up for the free delivery service, individuals who meet one of those criteria may call First Call for Help at 785-623-2800.All others must pre-register at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fsignup.com%2fgo%2fNXaeNyy&amp;c=E,1,d30BkGR5FWZ8yoIxMNQ_-Y6g8Ugpoz0KGuS-NPwdmN0iYN68PQMpop9DD58IJb5quemxpRSqZljIoIB8fd63cHnuvuu2Bf1ykC7_dxZPNLHbtOTQGKK77w,,&amp;typo=1" target="_blank">https://signup.com/go/NXaeNyy</a>, specifying the number of meals they will need. The website will ask them to select a pickup time.Also, bags of groceries will be distributed free of charge from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day at the Community Assistance Center, 208 E. 12th&nbsp;St.Lasich said that, as in the past, there are no income requirements for an individual wanting a sack of groceries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The sacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as supplies last.&nbsp;The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance (ECMA), which has <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1cef467d7daa72b30eacfa">organized the feast</a> for the past 12 years, is once again the sponsor. Those wishing to volunteer may call 785-623-2800.Monetary donations to help cover the cost of the traditional Thanksgiving feast may be mailed to ECMA,&nbsp;P.O. Box 173, Hays, KS 67601, with a note in the memo line to benefit ECMA’s 2nd&nbsp;Mile Fund.

Drive-through Community Thanksgiving Feast signup deadline is Saturday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with donor services regional executive for Kansas Red Cross Michelle Jantz.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: American Red Cross executive Michelle Jantz" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/qr2dp-f21d6c?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 donor services regional executive for Kansas Red Cross Michelle Jantz.

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross executive Michelle Jantz

By&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Fauthor%2Fdenaweigelbell%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=70b5025880579e0dfaa613ac9b9a8e8c&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">Dena Weigel Bell</a> WaKeeney Travel Blog

WAKEENEY - We’re sprucing up the “<a href="http://www.wakeeney.org/" target="_blank">Christmas City of the High Plains</a>,” with even more lights, fresh updates, and a new home for Santa!

WaKeeney’s famous Christmas light display is celebrating its 70th anniversary on Saturday, November 28, 2020 and our community wants to make it the most memorable year yet! 

We’ve been busy planning an amazing festival to welcome Santa to our community, and we’re even giving him a new house to greet the children who are anxiously awaiting his arrival.&nbsp;

Construction crews have been busy erecting a larger traditional wood frame house, with a porch and two doors for easier access to the “big guy” and to make it a comfortable place for him to rest during his visit to Downtown WaKeeney.

The new Santa House will be replacing the smaller, metal one that has been part of North Pole Park since its founding. The park celebrates everything Christmas and is a great place for selfies to commemorate a visit to WaKeeney anytime of year.&nbsp;

Christmas decorating has already begun in Downtown WaKeeney

More updates are planned for the upcoming holiday season. 

A new&nbsp;12’ X 12’ picture mural taken by Sarah Hille of Free Range Photography will be installed on the park’s north wall by Commercial Sign Company. An interpretive panel will be installed next to it to provide more information about our famous 35-foot tree and its historic decorations.

You’ll also find new holiday cutouts in the park, with face openings cut into them for fun photo opportunities. Created by local craftsmen and artists, these elves are different sizes so the entire family can get into the picture and celebrate the holiday spirit any time of year.

Our Main Street light display continues to grow, too!

<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2F2018%2F08%2F17%2Fthe-get-lit-campaign-will-shed-new-light-on-wakeeneys-downtown%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=dd782946d4603f3a41a1269b0a71b8d8&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">LED perimeter lights</a>&nbsp;are being added to the top of the Trego County Courthouse to match the perimeter lights that were installed on the commercial buildings in 2018. These lights are displayed throughout the year, with colors that can be changed to celebrate different holidays and our local schools’ colors.&nbsp;

Make plans to celebrate the holidays in the “Christmas City of the High Plains”

Join us on Saturday, November 28, 2020 when Santa arrives at his brand-new house! 

The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is a free, annual outdoor event, and the light display will be visible nightly until after New Year’s Day 2021.&nbsp;

Due to the current social distancing restrictions,&nbsp;the Virtual Reality Ride has been cancelled and please be sure to bring your mask and practice social distancing while at the event.&nbsp;

Come celebrate 70 years of holiday spirit in the “Christmas City of the High Plains!” More events arebeing planned for the 2020 celebration, so check in with local sources for more information.

<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fchristmas-city-of-the-high-plains%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=7575742ff6d8fb32bee0e748032eff69&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#christmas-city-of-the-high-plains</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fchristmas-tree-lighting-ceremony%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=2d0c4d21aabca515448b04345ecb4add&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#christmas-tree-lighting-ceremony</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fnorth-pole-park%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=1fd5f7d9bb16c0846a38ce0942161bba&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#north-pole-park</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fsanta-visits%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=d2e77f73392410929697c6cff7d1a57f&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#santa-visits</a>

By&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Fauthor%2Fdenaweigelbell%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=70b5025880579e0dfaa613ac9b9a8e8c&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">Dena Weigel Bell</a> WaKeeney Travel BlogWAKEENEY - We’re sprucing up the “<a href="http://www.wakeeney.org/" target="_blank">Christmas City of the High Plains</a>,” with even more lights, fresh updates, and a new home for Santa!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937290688.jpeg" alt="Santa's new house in WaKeeney's North Pole Park" />
 <figcaption>Santa's new house in WaKeeney's North Pole Park</figcaption>
 </figure>The New Santa HouseWaKeeney’s famous Christmas light display is celebrating its 70th anniversary on Saturday, November 28, 2020 and our community wants to make it the most memorable year yet! We’ve been busy planning an amazing festival to welcome Santa to our community, and we’re even giving him a new house to greet the children who are anxiously awaiting his arrival.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937626625.jpeg" alt="Construction of Santa's new house in WaKeeney" />
 <figcaption>Construction of Santa's new house in WaKeeney</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937646428.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Construction crews have been busy erecting a larger traditional wood frame house, with a porch and two doors for easier access to the “big guy” and to make it a comfortable place for him to rest during his visit to Downtown WaKeeney.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937723368.jpeg" alt="Santa's previous abode" />
 <figcaption>Santa's previous abode</figcaption>
 </figure>The new Santa House will be replacing the smaller, metal one that has been part of North Pole Park since its founding. The park celebrates everything Christmas and is a great place for selfies to commemorate a visit to WaKeeney anytime of year.&nbsp;Christmas decorating has already begun in Downtown WaKeeneyMore updates are planned for the upcoming holiday season. A new&nbsp;12’ X 12’ picture mural taken by Sarah Hille of Free Range Photography will be installed on the park’s north wall by Commercial Sign Company. An interpretive panel will be installed next to it to provide more information about our famous 35-foot tree and its historic decorations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937773472.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937799794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You’ll also find new holiday cutouts in the park, with face openings cut into them for fun photo opportunities. Created by local craftsmen and artists, these elves are different sizes so the entire family can get into the picture and celebrate the holiday spirit any time of year.Our Main Street light display continues to grow, too!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937887233.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2F2018%2F08%2F17%2Fthe-get-lit-campaign-will-shed-new-light-on-wakeeneys-downtown%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=dd782946d4603f3a41a1269b0a71b8d8&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">LED perimeter lights</a>&nbsp;are being added to the top of the Trego County Courthouse to match the perimeter lights that were installed on the commercial buildings in 2018. These lights are displayed throughout the year, with colors that can be changed to celebrate different holidays and our local schools’ colors.&nbsp;Make plans to celebrate the holidays in the “Christmas City of the High Plains”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937848647.jpeg" alt="Christmas City of the High Plains" />
 <figcaption>Christmas City of the High Plains</figcaption>
 </figure>Join us on Saturday, November 28, 2020 when Santa arrives at his brand-new house! The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is a free, annual outdoor event, and the light display will be visible nightly until after New Year’s Day 2021.&nbsp;Due to the current social distancing restrictions,&nbsp;the Virtual Reality Ride has been cancelled and please be sure to bring your mask and practice social distancing while at the event.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604937919231.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Come celebrate 70 years of holiday spirit in the “Christmas City of the High Plains!” More events arebeing planned for the 2020 celebration, so check in with local sources for more information.<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fchristmas-city-of-the-high-plains%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=7575742ff6d8fb32bee0e748032eff69&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#christmas-city-of-the-high-plains</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fchristmas-tree-lighting-ceremony%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=2d0c4d21aabca515448b04345ecb4add&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#christmas-tree-lighting-ceremony</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fnorth-pole-park%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=1fd5f7d9bb16c0846a38ce0942161bba&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#north-pole-park</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://public-api.wordpress.com/bar/?stat=groovemails-events&amp;bin=wpcom_email_click&amp;redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwakeeneytravelblog.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fsanta-visits%2F&amp;sr=1&amp;signature=d2e77f73392410929697c6cff7d1a57f&amp;user=27015677&amp;_e=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&amp;_z=z" target="_blank">#santa-visits</a>

New home for Santa at WaKeeney's North Pole Park

Fort Hays State University freshmen Sidney Sullivan and Madison Crabtree were recently awarded fellowships in the Center for Civic Leadership.&nbsp;

The CCL is a nationally recognized institute focused on leadership development and civic engagement. It provides top quality co-curricular and educational programs and initiatives with the goal of developing a new generation of committed and enthusiastic citizens who will better the world and promote positive change.

The CCL hosts two projects: The American Democracy Project and Tigers in Service.&nbsp;The goal of the American Democracy Project is to produce college graduates who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and experiences they need to be informed, engaged members of their communities. Tigers in Service is a student-operated program that acts as a clearinghouse for college students wanting to volunteer and participate in community service activities.

Fellows are required to serve five hours each week with the Student Project Coordinators to participate in its projects and various events. Additionally, fellows obtain valuable mentorship and real-life leadership experience.&nbsp;

Those who successfully complete the guidelines are awarded a $1,000 scholarship and have the opportunity to pursue paid student employment within the CCL. Crabtree, an organizational leadership major from Spring Hill, and Sullivan, a political science major from El Dorado, exemplify the true characteristics of leaders and uphold the standards of the CCL.

Crabtree has been actively involved in various leadership opportunities and her background has well equipped her for any leadership climate. Her service experiences include volunteering at a nursing facility, a women’s shelter and elementary schools, as well as assisting with the Neonatal Intensive Care reunions at her local hospital, the Perinatal Bereavement Balloon Release and Christmas tree decorating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605200748485.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University freshmen Sidney Sullivan and Madison Crabtree were recently awarded fellowships in the Center for Civic Leadership.&nbsp;The CCL is a nationally recognized institute focused on leadership development and civic engagement. It provides top quality co-curricular and educational programs and initiatives with the goal of developing a new generation of committed and enthusiastic citizens who will better the world and promote positive change.The CCL hosts two projects: The American Democracy Project and Tigers in Service.&nbsp;The goal of the American Democracy Project is to produce college graduates who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and experiences they need to be informed, engaged members of their communities. Tigers in Service is a student-operated program that acts as a clearinghouse for college students wanting to volunteer and participate in community service activities.Fellows are required to serve five hours each week with the Student Project Coordinators to participate in its projects and various events. Additionally, fellows obtain valuable mentorship and real-life leadership experience.&nbsp;Those who successfully complete the guidelines are awarded a $1,000 scholarship and have the opportunity to pursue paid student employment within the CCL. Crabtree, an organizational leadership major from Spring Hill, and Sullivan, a political science major from El Dorado, exemplify the true characteristics of leaders and uphold the standards of the CCL.Crabtree has been actively involved in various leadership opportunities and her background has well equipped her for any leadership climate. Her service experiences include volunteering at a nursing facility, a women’s shelter and elementary schools, as well as assisting with the Neonatal Intensive Care reunions at her local hospital, the Perinatal Bereavement Balloon Release and Christmas tree decorating.“I feel that my organizational skills and desire to consistently help others can provide a consistent avenue to grow throughout this program,” Crabtree said. “The time I spent volunteering has shown me a multitude of ways our communities need support. I cannot wait to embrace some of the opportunities in our Hays community.”Crabtree is well aware how this opportunity will help her grow professionally and academically.“Academically, this program will provide me hands-on projects and opportunities to serve others,” she said. “Being able to merge academia and community service will only benefit me in years to come. Getting the chance to volunteer throughout the community in small and large ways lets me see even more how important it is to create a positive change throughout the generations now and generations to come.”Sullivan, who earned an associate’s degree while still in high school, worked an internship for a non-profit organization in Topeka during the 2019-20 legislative session and has three years experience working at a public library. A self-described “hard worker,” she looks forward to the fellowship.“I love having a network of people who can help me when I need it,” she said. “I am constantly working on improving my social skills and looking for ways to get out of my comfort zone. I came from a relatively small town, so I thrive off community and look forward to serving others.”

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