In a special meeting that began at noon Friday, the Hays City Commission voted 3-1 to extend the city ordinance requiring face coverings.

The ordinance was set to expire Monday. Commissioners Michael Berges, Shaun Musil and Sandy Jacobs voted in favor of the extension, while Mason Ruder voted against.&nbsp;Commissioner Ron Mellick was absent. 

Instead of choosing a date for the expiration, the commission opted to use COVID-19 metrics generated by Berges with endorsement from the Ellis County Health Department. The ordinance now will be lifted if the seven-day average of new cases is at five or below for 14 consecutive days — or if the statewide emergency declaration is lifted.

As of Wednesday, the seven-day average of new cases was 11. On Friday, the health department reported that number had risen to 13.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6e4ab751-363d-4555-aa40-759297a30585">RELATED:&nbsp;COVID-19 cases trend up in Ellis Co.; sixth death reported</a>

The special meeting was requested by Mayor Shaun Musil during Thursday evening's work session and announced just after 8 a.m. Friday on the city's website.

Check Hays Post for more as details are available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601658694687.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostIn a special meeting that began at noon Friday, the Hays City Commission voted 3-1 to extend the city ordinance requiring face coverings.The ordinance was set to expire Monday. Commissioners Michael Berges, Shaun Musil and Sandy Jacobs voted in favor of the extension, while Mason Ruder voted against.&nbsp;Commissioner Ron Mellick was absent. Instead of choosing a date for the expiration, the commission opted to use COVID-19 metrics generated by Berges with endorsement from the Ellis County Health Department. The ordinance now will be lifted if the seven-day average of new cases is at five or below for 14 consecutive days — or if the statewide emergency declaration is lifted.As of Wednesday, the seven-day average of new cases was 11. On Friday, the health department reported that number had risen to 13.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6e4ab751-363d-4555-aa40-759297a30585">RELATED:&nbsp;COVID-19 cases trend up in Ellis Co.; sixth death reported</a>The special meeting was requested by Mayor Shaun Musil during Thursday evening's work session and announced just after 8 a.m. Friday on the city's website.Check Hays Post for more as details are available.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MflMZl5S6Rs"></iframe>
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Hays commissioners opt to extend mask ordinance

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board at its meeting Monday approved the&nbsp; purchase of property on Fifth Street to expand parking next to its transportation department building.

The school district has owned three-quarters of the lot for many years, but there is a sliver the district did not own, Superintendent Ron Wilson told the board.

The board approved Oct. 26 as the hearing date for the closure of Washington School.

The school board has entered into a contract with Overland Property Group to purchase the school for $500,000. The developer plans to remodel the school into apartments.

Early Childhood Connections had been located in the school, but the program was moved to its new location on 13th Street last fall. The Learning Center has been temporarily located in that building. It will move to a temporary location next semester.

The district hopes to move the Learning Center into a remodeled space at Rockwell Administration Center within the next year.

School board member Allen Park expressed several concerns about the sale. Park was the principal of Washington when it was an elementary school.&nbsp;

He asked for a list of investors in the Overland Property Group project. He said he wanted time to review any information presented at the hearing in October before the board votes on the sale. He also said he wanted a valuation of the property.

Bill Jeter, board attorney, said if the school board does not approve the sale of the school to Overland Property Group, it will be in breach of contract and open to a lawsuit.

The board also approved a purchase for&nbsp;a district data center update from Eagle Technologies of Salina.&nbsp;

Total cost for the update will be&nbsp;$178,638.

Editor's note: Eagle Technologies is not affiliated with Eagle Technology Solutions or Eagle Radio of Hays.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board at its meeting Monday approved the&nbsp; purchase of property on Fifth Street to expand parking next to its transportation department building.The cost of the property is $9,500.The school district has owned three-quarters of the lot for many years, but there is a sliver the district did not own, Superintendent Ron Wilson told the board.<h2>Washington school</h2>The board approved Oct. 26 as the hearing date for the closure of Washington School.The school board has entered into a contract with Overland Property Group to purchase the school for $500,000. The developer plans to remodel the school into apartments.Early Childhood Connections had been located in the school, but the program was moved to its new location on 13th Street last fall. The Learning Center has been temporarily located in that building. It will move to a temporary location next semester.The district hopes to move the Learning Center into a remodeled space at Rockwell Administration Center within the next year.School board member Allen Park expressed several concerns about the sale. Park was the principal of Washington when it was an elementary school.&nbsp;He asked for a list of investors in the Overland Property Group project. He said he wanted time to review any information presented at the hearing in October before the board votes on the sale. He also said he wanted a valuation of the property.Bill Jeter, board attorney, said if the school board does not approve the sale of the school to Overland Property Group, it will be in breach of contract and open to a lawsuit.<h2>Data center purchase</h2>The board also approved a purchase for&nbsp;a district data center update from Eagle Technologies of Salina.&nbsp;Total cost for the update will be&nbsp;$178,638.Editor's note: Eagle Technologies is not affiliated with Eagle Technology Solutions or Eagle Radio of Hays.

USD 489 purchases land for parking, sets hearing on Washington closure

The Ellis County Health Department reported Friday an increase in the&nbsp;average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days — from 11 on Wednesday to 13 on Friday.

The department also reported the sixth death related to COVID-19.

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

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

There were 50 new cases of COVID-19 identified in the county since Wednesday. There are now 174 active cases of coronavirus, including 10 active hospitalizations, and 908 recovered cases.

The seven-day average of percent of positive test results rose to 19.1 percent, up from 16.7 percent Wednesday.

Since reporting began, there have been 1,088 cases of COVID-19 in Ellis County, including sixth deaths.

Of the 8,548 total tests conducted, 12.2 percent have returned positive for coronavirus.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601658694687.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department reported Friday an increase in the&nbsp;average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days — from 11 on Wednesday to 13 on Friday.The department also reported the sixth death related to COVID-19.On Friday, the Hays City Commission voted to extend the ordinance requiring face coverings until the seven-day new case average was five or fewer for 14 straight days.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/095697ac-eb4b-4005-867a-bb049ec8c10f">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays commissioners vote to extend mask ordinance</a>There were 50 new cases of COVID-19 identified in the county since Wednesday. There are now 174 active cases of coronavirus, including 10 active hospitalizations, and 908 recovered cases.The seven-day average of percent of positive test results rose to 19.1 percent, up from 16.7 percent Wednesday.Since reporting began, there have been 1,088 cases of COVID-19 in Ellis County, including sixth deaths.Of the 8,548 total tests conducted, 12.2 percent have returned positive for coronavirus.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601666162595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

COVID-19 cases trend up in Ellis Co.; sixth death reported

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

At least one annual fall tradition in Hays has not been affected by the coronavirus.

The 2020 alley cleanup starts Monday, Oct. 19, and city of Hays refuse customers can begin placing their discards in alleys and at curbsides Saturday, Oct. 3.

Residential curbside collections will be done first. That usually takes a couple of days, according to Marvin Honas, Solid Waste superintendent. Then crews will move on to alley collections.

"We ask that customer separate their items into four piles," Honas said. "That makes it easier and faster for our crews to pick up stuff."

1. Tree limbs and brush--No longer than 12 feet in length or 6 inches in diameter; Bamboo bundled in 4 foot lengths; All yard and garden waste must be bagged.

2. Construction and Demolition Debris--Lumber, drywall, bricks, sinks, wires, insulation, etc. Pull or bend over nails and place small quantities of concrete, bricks, and plaster in containers.

3. White Goods/Metals--Guttering, siding, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, metal swing sets, propane tanks for grills, etc.

4. Municipal Waste (all other items)--Furniture, carpet, TVs, computers, plastic toys, etc.

&nbsp;"We will not pick up tires, batteries, medical waste or household hazardous waste such as paint and cleaners," Honas added.

Tires should be disposed of at the Ellis County Landfill and hazardous waste items should be taken to the Ellis County Hazardous Waste Facility. Detailed information is available by calling 628-9460 or 628-9449.

Crews will make only one pass through the city, spending a maximum of 20 minutes at each residence.

The free program is "very well received," Honas said.

"This is a great opportunity for our citizens to clean out garages, basements, etc., and discard items that are normally not picked up with our regular solid waste collection."&nbsp;

Free disposal of tree limbs is always available for city of Hays residents at the Ellis County Sanitary Landfill, 1515 W. 55th, Honas noted.

He also suggested tagging or removing "treasured items" from the collection area that residents want to keep.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601589266622.jpeg" alt="The annual Hays alley cleanup starts October 19." />
 <figcaption>The annual Hays alley cleanup starts October 19.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAt least one annual fall tradition in Hays has not been affected by the coronavirus.The 2020 alley cleanup starts Monday, Oct. 19, and city of Hays refuse customers can begin placing their discards in alleys and at curbsides Saturday, Oct. 3.Residential curbside collections will be done first. That usually takes a couple of days, according to Marvin Honas, Solid Waste superintendent. Then crews will move on to alley collections."We ask that customer separate their items into four piles," Honas said. "That makes it easier and faster for our crews to pick up stuff."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/70Akh0OlZn0"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The four trash categories are:&nbsp;1. Tree limbs and brush--No longer than 12 feet in length or 6 inches in diameter; Bamboo bundled in 4 foot lengths; All yard and garden waste must be bagged.2. Construction and Demolition Debris--Lumber, drywall, bricks, sinks, wires, insulation, etc. Pull or bend over nails and place small quantities of concrete, bricks, and plaster in containers.3. White Goods/Metals--Guttering, siding, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, metal swing sets, propane tanks for grills, etc.4. Municipal Waste (all other items)--Furniture, carpet, TVs, computers, plastic toys, etc.&nbsp;"We will not pick up tires, batteries, medical waste or household hazardous waste such as paint and cleaners," Honas added.Tires should be disposed of at the Ellis County Landfill and hazardous waste items should be taken to the Ellis County Hazardous Waste Facility. Detailed information is available by calling 628-9460 or 628-9449.Crews will make only one pass through the city, spending a maximum of 20 minutes at each residence.The free program is "very well received," Honas said."This is a great opportunity for our citizens to clean out garages, basements, etc., and discard items that are normally not picked up with our regular solid waste collection."&nbsp;Free disposal of tree limbs is always available for city of Hays residents at the Ellis County Sanitary Landfill, 1515 W. 55th, Honas noted.He also suggested tagging or removing "treasured items" from the collection area that residents want to keep.

🎥 Begin setting discards out Saturday for Hays alley cleanup

The Oakley Police Department and Discover Oakley issued the following news release on a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oakleykansaspolice/">social media page</a> late Thursday afternoon.

OAKLEY — Effective Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, all individuals coming into the Oakley City Office or Police Department will be required to wear a mask.  

If you need to pay a utility bill, there are other options to pay your bill besides coming into the city office.

• Online: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdiscoveroakley.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3B02bus9CZUSme01Oj88Fd3vA4rU9aPrZ__bTtoilGri4BVo0ccUxOuos&amp;h=AT1xVGDc6RXU-1KuIHRNGkI1HzEGs2mKxH2T120PXzkU3ud2XnonknIpb-LwOlx5W2PXQmLUnklr8tLpMo_6umJX1PEEUb4bvrkkkKPl46wLh1DnYZn9rXkAo6Z-39MKXH5F&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3blpo2gujostZYdl5vVzqpQ-UfnL_lCFE0rn4ZK3nwGzTzZHotbYw6C3n8IJgoKh5yvLetTU5k5C0metIdyBcQzc-3MaUoyv6qgOihupbre2uqBH9TjJX_6XH4gKiUNYdLaZLnXZRXPI_1Q1WSGyZ1XuPtOucRjF9IlsT84GsuvndPm2rwMiJTLxSG3v3ltdEmRhcaIvCbURDvDjL-zIMwMVRRBTAL1kM8AumK_avleaFaAkJc1cfur6NhQmdu3PvjD1ex" target="_blank">discoveroakley.com</a> (select “City of Oakley” from to top menu, then scroll down and select “Online Bill Pay”, then click the link “Online Utility Bill Payment”). The direct link:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdiscoveroakley.com%2F187%2FViewPay-Utility-Bill%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1A4ftsGdY8h2lAIduQ1KROHgduVbkvc156R7fBZa37RGSTQ5Pawbq8JUQ&amp;h=AT3IqYxTW21gQ56U99XQkDVCL7brEV5kg_gRFoJET_Eq3H1q6kOatOUCIj1Me-dPlDJhCQYn_9iuCnUbKVTpqmbsUoHJTYs42nnDkp2sIfwgLioNSIDx7A-SgICtDzqnf3A2&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3blpo2gujostZYdl5vVzqpQ-UfnL_lCFE0rn4ZK3nwGzTzZHotbYw6C3n8IJgoKh5yvLetTU5k5C0metIdyBcQzc-3MaUoyv6qgOihupbre2uqBH9TjJX_6XH4gKiUNYdLaZLnXZRXPI_1Q1WSGyZ1XuPtOucRjF9IlsT84GsuvndPm2rwMiJTLxSG3v3ltdEmRhcaIvCbURDvDjL-zIMwMVRRBTAL1kM8AumK_avleaFaAkJc1cfur6NhQmdu3PvjD1ex" target="_blank">http://discoveroakley.com/187/ViewPay-Utility-Bill</a>

• Call 785-671-3611 to speak with a City Office Staff member to pay your bill over the phone by credit/debit card (only available from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday)

• Using the payment drop box located at the front of City Hall.

If you have any questions, please contact the Oakley City Office at 785-671-3611&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601590660792.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Oakley Police Department and Discover Oakley issued the following news release on a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oakleykansaspolice/">social media page</a> late Thursday afternoon.OAKLEY — Effective Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, all individuals coming into the Oakley City Office or Police Department will be required to wear a mask. If you need to pay a utility bill, there are other options to pay your bill besides coming into the city office.• Online: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdiscoveroakley.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3B02bus9CZUSme01Oj88Fd3vA4rU9aPrZ__bTtoilGri4BVo0ccUxOuos&amp;h=AT1xVGDc6RXU-1KuIHRNGkI1HzEGs2mKxH2T120PXzkU3ud2XnonknIpb-LwOlx5W2PXQmLUnklr8tLpMo_6umJX1PEEUb4bvrkkkKPl46wLh1DnYZn9rXkAo6Z-39MKXH5F&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3blpo2gujostZYdl5vVzqpQ-UfnL_lCFE0rn4ZK3nwGzTzZHotbYw6C3n8IJgoKh5yvLetTU5k5C0metIdyBcQzc-3MaUoyv6qgOihupbre2uqBH9TjJX_6XH4gKiUNYdLaZLnXZRXPI_1Q1WSGyZ1XuPtOucRjF9IlsT84GsuvndPm2rwMiJTLxSG3v3ltdEmRhcaIvCbURDvDjL-zIMwMVRRBTAL1kM8AumK_avleaFaAkJc1cfur6NhQmdu3PvjD1ex" target="_blank">discoveroakley.com</a> (select “City of Oakley” from to top menu, then scroll down and select “Online Bill Pay”, then click the link “Online Utility Bill Payment”). The direct link:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdiscoveroakley.com%2F187%2FViewPay-Utility-Bill%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1A4ftsGdY8h2lAIduQ1KROHgduVbkvc156R7fBZa37RGSTQ5Pawbq8JUQ&amp;h=AT3IqYxTW21gQ56U99XQkDVCL7brEV5kg_gRFoJET_Eq3H1q6kOatOUCIj1Me-dPlDJhCQYn_9iuCnUbKVTpqmbsUoHJTYs42nnDkp2sIfwgLioNSIDx7A-SgICtDzqnf3A2&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3blpo2gujostZYdl5vVzqpQ-UfnL_lCFE0rn4ZK3nwGzTzZHotbYw6C3n8IJgoKh5yvLetTU5k5C0metIdyBcQzc-3MaUoyv6qgOihupbre2uqBH9TjJX_6XH4gKiUNYdLaZLnXZRXPI_1Q1WSGyZ1XuPtOucRjF9IlsT84GsuvndPm2rwMiJTLxSG3v3ltdEmRhcaIvCbURDvDjL-zIMwMVRRBTAL1kM8AumK_avleaFaAkJc1cfur6NhQmdu3PvjD1ex" target="_blank">http://discoveroakley.com/187/ViewPay-Utility-Bill</a>• Call 785-671-3611 to speak with a City Office Staff member to pay your bill over the phone by credit/debit card (only available from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday)• Using the payment drop box located at the front of City Hall.If you have any questions, please contact the Oakley City Office at 785-671-3611&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitors to Oakley city offices, OPD must begin wearing masks

The National Weather Service issued a frost advisory Thursday evening for Ellis and Trego counties until 9 a.m. Friday.

And the overnight low temperature in Hays matched the record low for Oct. 1.

According to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, the mercury dipped to 33 degrees overnight, tying the low temperature for the date first set just 16 years ago in 2004.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1f611c7d-dab6-4ee3-85c9-455a42526df3">weekend weather forecast</a> is calling for slightly warmer temperatures.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601650210899.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe National Weather Service issued a frost advisory Thursday evening for Ellis and Trego counties until 9 a.m. Friday.And the overnight low temperature in Hays matched the record low for Oct. 1.According to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, the mercury dipped to 33 degrees overnight, tying the low temperature for the date first set just 16 years ago in 2004.The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1f611c7d-dab6-4ee3-85c9-455a42526df3">weekend weather forecast</a> is calling for slightly warmer temperatures.&nbsp;

How low did it go, that overnight temp?

UPDATE, 8:20 a.m. Friday A special Hays City Commission meeting will be held at noon Friday at City Hall, 1507 Main, to consider a resolution extending the requirements of Ordinance No. 3988 pertaining to requiring the wearing of masks or other face coverings.

The mayor of Hays has asked for a special city commission meeting to be held Friday at noon to discuss the city's face mask ordinance set to expire Mon., Oct. 5&nbsp; at midnight.

Attending Thursday's work session via phone, Shaun Musil made the request at the end of the seven-minute meeting during other items for discussion.

"I'd like to talk about the possibility of extending the mask mandate that ends October 5th," Musil said.

Commissioner Ron Mellick was absent from the meeting.

"Three signatures are needed to call a special meeting," Toby Dougherty, city manager said.

"We will take the proper public notifications first thing in the morning so it goes out in a press release."

The city's website, <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/">haysusa.com</a>, is the official site for Hays' legal publications and notices and includes a News Flash section.

According to the <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/koma-faq">Kansas Open Meetings Act</a>&nbsp;(KOMA), requests by public bodies for meetings and/or special meetings can legally be made orally and do not have to be in writing.&nbsp;There is no KOMA duty to provide notice unless it has been requested.

Musil has been a proponent of wearing face masks. 

At the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/71b2e036-1db2-45b6-86a9-c9d86520f000">August 27 meeting to extend the face covering ordinance</a>, Mason Ruder and Michael Berges voted against the measure.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596805526389.jpeg" alt="A special Hays city commission meeting will be held Friday at noon to discuss possible extension of the face covering ordinance which is set to expire Monday at midnight." />
 <figcaption>A special Hays city commission meeting will be held Friday at noon to discuss possible extension of the face covering ordinance which is set to expire Monday at midnight.</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE, 8:20 a.m. Friday A special Hays City Commission meeting will be held at noon Friday at City Hall, 1507 Main, to consider a resolution extending the requirements of Ordinance No. 3988 pertaining to requiring the wearing of masks or other face coverings. -------------By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe mayor of Hays has asked for a special city commission meeting to be held Friday at noon to discuss the city's face mask ordinance set to expire Mon., Oct. 5&nbsp; at midnight.Attending Thursday's work session via phone, Shaun Musil made the request at the end of the seven-minute meeting during other items for discussion."I'd like to talk about the possibility of extending the mask mandate that ends October 5th," Musil said.Commissioner Ron Mellick was absent from the meeting."Three signatures are needed to call a special meeting," Toby Dougherty, city manager said."We will take the proper public notifications first thing in the morning so it goes out in a press release."The city's website, <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/">haysusa.com</a>, is the official site for Hays' legal publications and notices and includes a News Flash section.According to the <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/open-government/koma-faq">Kansas Open Meetings Act</a>&nbsp;(KOMA), requests by public bodies for meetings and/or special meetings can legally be made orally and do not have to be in writing.&nbsp;There is no KOMA duty to provide notice unless it has been requested. Musil has been a proponent of wearing face masks. At the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/71b2e036-1db2-45b6-86a9-c9d86520f000">August 27 meeting to extend the face covering ordinance</a>, Mason Ruder and Michael Berges voted against the measure.&nbsp;

UPDATE: Hays commission will hold special meeting on mask ordinance

The Hays Police Department responded to 9 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Thu., Sept. 24, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental Health Call—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:07 AM Water Use Violation—1300 block Haney Dr, Hays; 8:50 AM Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Steven Dr, Hays; 9:17 AM Found/Lost Property—2700 block Cottonwood Ln, Hays; 9:31 AM Search Warrant—Hays; 9:53 AM
 Identity Theft—100 block W 35th St, Hays; 9/21 10:29 AM Identity Theft—100 block W 35th St, Hays; 10:40AM Animal At Large--6th St and Park St, Hays; 12:32 PM Identity Theft—1300 block Agnes Dr, Hays; 9/17 1:46 PM; 9/24 1:46 PM
Water Use Violation—2000 block Main St, Hays; 2:52 PM Drug Offenses—400 block Halladay St, Hays; 4:59 PM Welfare Check—1700 block Vine St, Hays; 5:40 PM Theft of Vehicle—500 block Vine St, Hays; 1:15 AM; 1:20 AM Criminal Damage to Property--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:46 PM Water Use Violation—2400 block Fort St, Hays; 9:27 PM Found/Lost Property—Hays; 9:42 PM Disturbance – Noise—300 block W 6th St, Hays; &nbsp;9:59 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Fri., Sept. 25, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 6th St, Hays; 12:35
AM
Criminal Trespass—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:33 AM Identity Theft—300 block W 13th St, Hays; 7:43 AM Found/Lost Property—300 block W 8th St, Hays; 7:52 AM Animal At Large—500 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:06 AM Found/Lost Property—700 block Main St, Hays; 9:17 AM Suspicious Person—400 block W 8th St,
Hays; 1 AM; 1:30 AM MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 9/24 4:30 PM;
5:30 PM Welfare Check—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 12:08 PM Suspicious Activity--2900 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 12:14 PM Truancy—1800 block Ash St, Hays; 2:06 PM Disorderly Conduct—400 block W 18th St, Hays; 2:46 PM MV Accident-Hit and Run—300 block E 20th St, Hays; 3:45 PM Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 5th St, Hays; 3:54 PM MV Accident-City Street/Alley--100 block W 43rd St, Hays; 4:05 AM Assist - Other (not MV)—100 block W 12th
St, Hays; 4:49 PM Disorderly Conduct—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:35 PM Minor in Possession of CMB/LIQ—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9/19 10:42 PM; 10:44
PM Burglary/vehicle—600 block E 5th St, Hays; 8:35 PM; 8:44 PM Animal At Large—400 block E 22nd St, Hays; 8:59 PM Battery – simple—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 9:14 PM Burglary/vehicle—600 block E 5th St, Hays; 8:30 PM; 9:24 PM Suicidal Subject—500 block E 8th St,
Hays; 9:48 PM MV Accident w/Animal--1700 &nbsp;block E 13th
St, Hays; 10:52 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Sat., Sept. 26, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Assist - Other (not MV)—100 block Lewis Dr, Hays; 12:24 AM; 1:26
AM
Overdose-- 1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:26 AM Driving Under the Influence—1300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:43 AM Theft (general)—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 9/25 11 PM; 9/26 3:19 AM
Harassment (All Other)—300 block E 18th St, Hays; 3:31 AM Water Use Violation--2200 block Henry Dr, Hays; 12:06 PM Found/Lost Property—1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 12:27 PM Aggravated Battery—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:30 PM; 12:41 PM Lost Animals ONLY—1200 block Elm St, Hays; 1:07 PM Criminal Threat—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:58 PM Suspicious Activity—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 2:03 PM Mental Health Call—3300 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 3:03 PM
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 17th St, Hays; 4:09 PM Mental Health Call—1600 block Main St, Hays; 4:26 PM Lost Animals ONLY—3900 block Country Ln, Hays; 4:50 PM Battery – Domestic—300 block W 18th St, Hays; 5:33 PM Abandoned Vehicle--100 block E 15th St, Hays; 10:13 PM Theft (general)—800 block Ash St, Hays; 10:26 PM Suicidal Subject—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9/26 11:15 PM; 9/27 2:10 AM

The Hays Police Department responded to 11 animal calls and conducted 2 traffic stops Sun., Sept. 27, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 13th St, Hays; 3:011
AM
Disturbance – Noise—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 3:25 AM Animal At Large—400 block E 13th St, Hays; 10:17 AM Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 28th St, Hays; 1 AM
Found/Lost Property--2000 block Main St, Hays; 10:57 AM Criminal Damage to Property--1600 block Fort St, Hays; 9/26 8 PM; 9/27 11:28 AM Domestic Disturbance—400 block W 17th St, Hays; 2:34 PM Animal At Large—3200 block Country Ln, Hays; 2:45 PM Animal Call—300 block E 9th St, Hays; 3:11 PM Animal At Large—500 block W 24th St, Hays; 3:30 PM Aggravated Assault—200 block W 29th St, Hays; 1:30 PM; 1:45 PM
Burglary/vehicle--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 9/26 5 PM; 9/27 8 AM Lost Animals ONLY—1700 block Judith Dr, Hays; 7:52 PM Traffic/Driving Complaint—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:59 PM; 10:22 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 9 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Thu., Sept. 24, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.
Mental Health Call—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:07 AM Water Use Violation—1300 block Haney Dr, Hays; 8:50 AM Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Steven Dr, Hays; 9:17 AM Found/Lost Property—2700 block Cottonwood Ln, Hays; 9:31 AM Search Warrant—Hays; 9:53 AM
 Identity Theft—100 block W 35th St, Hays; 9/21 10:29 AM Identity Theft—100 block W 35th St, Hays; 10:40AM Animal At Large--6th St and Park St, Hays; 12:32 PM Identity Theft—1300 block Agnes Dr, Hays; 9/17 1:46 PM; 9/24 1:46 PM
Water Use Violation—2000 block Main St, Hays; 2:52 PM Drug Offenses—400 block Halladay St, Hays; 4:59 PM Welfare Check—1700 block Vine St, Hays; 5:40 PM Theft of Vehicle—500 block Vine St, Hays; 1:15 AM; 1:20 AM Criminal Damage to Property--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:46 PM Water Use Violation—2400 block Fort St, Hays; 9:27 PM Found/Lost Property—Hays; 9:42 PM Disturbance – Noise—300 block W 6th St, Hays; &nbsp;9:59 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Fri., Sept. 25, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 6th St, Hays; 12:35
AM
Criminal Trespass—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:33 AM Identity Theft—300 block W 13th St, Hays; 7:43 AM Found/Lost Property—300 block W 8th St, Hays; 7:52 AM Animal At Large—500 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:06 AM Found/Lost Property—700 block Main St, Hays; 9:17 AM Suspicious Person—400 block W 8th St,
Hays; 1 AM; 1:30 AM MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 9/24 4:30 PM;
5:30 PM Welfare Check—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 12:08 PM Suspicious Activity--2900 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 12:14 PM Truancy—1800 block Ash St, Hays; 2:06 PM Disorderly Conduct—400 block W 18th St, Hays; 2:46 PM MV Accident-Hit and Run—300 block E 20th St, Hays; 3:45 PM Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 5th St, Hays; 3:54 PM MV Accident-City Street/Alley--100 block W 43rd St, Hays; 4:05 AM Assist - Other (not MV)—100 block W 12th
St, Hays; 4:49 PM Disorderly Conduct—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:35 PM Minor in Possession of CMB/LIQ—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9/19 10:42 PM; 10:44
PM Burglary/vehicle—600 block E 5th St, Hays; 8:35 PM; 8:44 PM Animal At Large—400 block E 22nd St, Hays; 8:59 PM Battery – simple—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 9:14 PM Burglary/vehicle—600 block E 5th St, Hays; 8:30 PM; 9:24 PM Suicidal Subject—500 block E 8th St,
Hays; 9:48 PM MV Accident w/Animal--1700 &nbsp;block E 13th
St, Hays; 10:52 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Sat., Sept. 26, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Assist - Other (not MV)—100 block Lewis Dr, Hays; 12:24 AM; 1:26
AM
Overdose-- 1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:26 AM Driving Under the Influence—1300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:43 AM Theft (general)—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 9/25 11 PM; 9/26 3:19 AM
Harassment (All Other)—300 block E 18th St, Hays; 3:31 AM Water Use Violation--2200 block Henry Dr, Hays; 12:06 PM Found/Lost Property—1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 12:27 PM Aggravated Battery—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:30 PM; 12:41 PM Lost Animals ONLY—1200 block Elm St, Hays; 1:07 PM Criminal Threat—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:58 PM Suspicious Activity—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 2:03 PM Mental Health Call—3300 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 3:03 PM
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 17th St, Hays; 4:09 PM Mental Health Call—1600 block Main St, Hays; 4:26 PM Lost Animals ONLY—3900 block Country Ln, Hays; 4:50 PM Battery – Domestic—300 block W 18th St, Hays; 5:33 PM Abandoned Vehicle--100 block E 15th St, Hays; 10:13 PM Theft (general)—800 block Ash St, Hays; 10:26 PM Suicidal Subject—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9/26 11:15 PM; 9/27 2:10 AMThe Hays Police Department responded to 11 animal calls and conducted 2 traffic stops Sun., Sept. 27, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 13th St, Hays; 3:011
AM
Disturbance – Noise—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 3:25 AM Animal At Large—400 block E 13th St, Hays; 10:17 AM Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 28th St, Hays; 1 AM
Found/Lost Property--2000 block Main St, Hays; 10:57 AM Criminal Damage to Property--1600 block Fort St, Hays; 9/26 8 PM; 9/27 11:28 AM Domestic Disturbance—400 block W 17th St, Hays; 2:34 PM Animal At Large—3200 block Country Ln, Hays; 2:45 PM Animal Call—300 block E 9th St, Hays; 3:11 PM Animal At Large—500 block W 24th St, Hays; 3:30 PM Aggravated Assault—200 block W 29th St, Hays; 1:30 PM; 1:45 PM
Burglary/vehicle--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 9/26 5 PM; 9/27 8 AM Lost Animals ONLY—1700 block Judith Dr, Hays; 7:52 PM Traffic/Driving Complaint—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:59 PM; 10:22 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, Sept. 24-27

Seniors at Thomas More Prep-Marian are completing a capstone project that is the 
culmination of their years of religious education. Makinsey Schlautman 
and Kamryn Hudsonpillar are hosting a 5k run/walk for Operation Underground Railroad Organization. 

Human trafficking has been an ongoing
 issue but, in 2020, it is estimated that 40.3 million people at any 
given time are being victimized by this — and an astonishing 25 percent of these
 victims are children. This is heartbreaking, and Schlautman and Hudsonpillar are looking to 
help join the fight against human trafficking.&nbsp;

For their senior capstone project,&nbsp; they are hosting a 5k run/walk for Operation Underground Railroad 
Organization. The event will be held at a Thomas More Prep-Marian 5k 
course on Saturday, Oct. 17, and will raise money for the 
battles that the Underground Railroad team face. In order to make this 
happen, they are asking for help. There are several sponsorship 
opportunities available:

The deadline to make these donations 
is Oct. 9. Donations will be tax deductible.&nbsp;

To register online, click <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/race-to-stop-trafficking-senior-capstone-project/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601499482796.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601562486491.png" alt="Makinsey Schlautman, left, and Kamryn Hudsonpillar" />
 <figcaption>Makinsey Schlautman, left, and Kamryn Hudsonpillar</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MSeniors at Thomas More Prep-Marian are completing a capstone project that is the 
culmination of their years of religious education. Makinsey Schlautman 
and Kamryn Hudsonpillar are hosting a 5k run/walk for Operation Underground Railroad Organization. Human trafficking has been an ongoing
 issue but, in 2020, it is estimated that 40.3 million people at any 
given time are being victimized by this — and an astonishing 25 percent of these
 victims are children. This is heartbreaking, and Schlautman and Hudsonpillar are looking to 
help join the fight against human trafficking.&nbsp;For their senior capstone project,&nbsp; they are hosting a 5k run/walk for Operation Underground Railroad 
Organization. The event will be held at a Thomas More Prep-Marian 5k 
course on Saturday, Oct. 17, and will raise money for the 
battles that the Underground Railroad team face. In order to make this 
happen, they are asking for help. There are several sponsorship 
opportunities available:<ol>
 <li>A white sponsorship is $25 or less 
and sponsors will have their name (personal or business) printed on the 
back of the T-shirt that participants will receive.&nbsp;</li><li>A blue sponsorship is $50 and the sponsor will receive their logo (small) on the back of the T-shirt.&nbsp;</li><li>A silver sponsorship is $100+ and 
the sponsor will receive their logo (large) on the back of the T-shirt. 
They will also receive one free entry to the race.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>The deadline to make these donations 
is Oct. 9. Donations will be tax deductible.&nbsp;To register online, click <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/race-to-stop-trafficking-senior-capstone-project/">HERE</a>.

TMP-M seniors organize race to help fight human trafficking

Nex-Tech announced Thursday it has reached an agreement to acquire Inland Computer Systems of Topeka. 

Inland provides computer repair, network installation, hardware, and managed services. Inland opened in Topeka in 1983 and has been co-owned by Bob Raymer and Pam Gies. Inland is located at 17th and Fairlawn, and Nex-Tech will have an office in this same location. Inland also provides printer and typewriter maintenance, but that portion of the business is not being acquired. Nex-Tech will have four local staff in the Topeka location.

Steve Riat, director of sales at Nex-Tech, explained Nex-Tech’s history in the Topeka market. 

“In 2019, Nex-Tech started offering business technology services in the Topeka market and had two local team members.” Riat said. “We are excited to have worked with Bob and Pam on this acquisition, and we will continue with the same services in Topeka, plus expand the offerings with Nex-Tech’s complete line of technology applications, including cloud services, secure networking, security and surveillance, mobile devices, hardware and software, to custom applications and desktops.”

“We know Nex-Tech is great company with a core foundation built on a standard of providing high-level customer service, quality installation and superior support,” Bob Raymer said. “Our customers will be in great hands with Nex-Tech.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601562391147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nex-Tech announced Thursday it has reached an agreement to acquire Inland Computer Systems of Topeka. Inland provides computer repair, network installation, hardware, and managed services. Inland opened in Topeka in 1983 and has been co-owned by Bob Raymer and Pam Gies. Inland is located at 17th and Fairlawn, and Nex-Tech will have an office in this same location. Inland also provides printer and typewriter maintenance, but that portion of the business is not being acquired. Nex-Tech will have four local staff in the Topeka location.Steve Riat, director of sales at Nex-Tech, explained Nex-Tech’s history in the Topeka market. “In 2019, Nex-Tech started offering business technology services in the Topeka market and had two local team members.” Riat said. “We are excited to have worked with Bob and Pam on this acquisition, and we will continue with the same services in Topeka, plus expand the offerings with Nex-Tech’s complete line of technology applications, including cloud services, secure networking, security and surveillance, mobile devices, hardware and software, to custom applications and desktops.”“We know Nex-Tech is great company with a core foundation built on a standard of providing high-level customer service, quality installation and superior support,” Bob Raymer said. “Our customers will be in great hands with Nex-Tech.”— Submitted

Nex-Tech acquires Topeka-based technology company

COLBY — Western Plains Arts Association announce this week it is among a select group of regional	artists and organizations to receive a Mid-America Arts Alliance Regional Touring grant.

This award will support Marimba Sol de Chiapas on Sunday, Oct. 11, at 3 p.m. central time in a public performance at the Hoxie High School Auditorium.&nbsp; On Sunday, Oct. 11, Marimba Sol de Chiapas will do a workshop&nbsp;presentation at the Hoxie High School music room for students and community members at 1:30 p.m.

Funding for Marimba Sol de Chiapas through the M-AAA Regional Touring grant is drawn from	generous underwriting by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, and foundations, corporations, and individuals throughout Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.

	Mid-America Arts Alliance is the nation’s oldest regional arts organization and was	founded in 1972 for cultural growth in heartland communities.&nbsp; Mid-America Arts	Alliance strengthens and supports artists, cultural organizations, and communities	throughout our region and beyond.&nbsp; They are especially committed to enriching the	cultural life of underserved communities by providing high quality, meaningful, and	accessible arts and culture programs and services.

	Todd Stein, M-AAA Chief Executive Officer and Western Plains Arts Association is to be commended for their commitment to serving the northwest Kansas community with this distinctive event.&nbsp; Audiences in northwest Kansas will have the opportunity to see the exciting work of Marimba Sol de Chiapas, many for the first time.&nbsp; Mid-America Arts Alliance is proud to help support this work

For further Western Plains Arts Association event information, check <a href="http://www.wpaa.us">www.wpaa.us</a>. &nbsp;

	For more information about Mid-America Arts Alliance, visit them online at	www.maaa.org.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601475736049.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WPAACOLBY — Western Plains Arts Association announce this week it is among a select group of regional	artists and organizations to receive a Mid-America Arts Alliance Regional Touring grant.This award will support Marimba Sol de Chiapas on Sunday, Oct. 11, at 3 p.m. central time in a public performance at the Hoxie High School Auditorium.&nbsp; On Sunday, Oct. 11, Marimba Sol de Chiapas will do a workshop&nbsp;presentation at the Hoxie High School music room for students and community members at 1:30 p.m.Funding for Marimba Sol de Chiapas through the M-AAA Regional Touring grant is drawn from	generous underwriting by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, and foundations, corporations, and individuals throughout Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.	Mid-America Arts Alliance is the nation’s oldest regional arts organization and was	founded in 1972 for cultural growth in heartland communities.&nbsp; Mid-America Arts	Alliance strengthens and supports artists, cultural organizations, and communities	throughout our region and beyond.&nbsp; They are especially committed to enriching the	cultural life of underserved communities by providing high quality, meaningful, and	accessible arts and culture programs and services.	Todd Stein, M-AAA Chief Executive Officer and Western Plains Arts Association is to be commended for their commitment to serving the northwest Kansas community with this distinctive event.&nbsp; Audiences in northwest Kansas will have the opportunity to see the exciting work of Marimba Sol de Chiapas, many for the first time.&nbsp; Mid-America Arts Alliance is proud to help support this work	For further Western Plains Arts Association event information, check <a href="http://www.wpaa.us">www.wpaa.us</a>. &nbsp;	For more information about Mid-America Arts Alliance, visit them online at	www.maaa.org.&nbsp;— Submitted

Western Plains Arts Association receives Mid-America Arts Alliance grant

Three-day weather outlook

Spencer Angell, senior at Salina Central High School, was named Semifinalist for the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. Spencer will have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships. Spencer is the son of Samantha Parks Angell, a 1990 Hays High graduate.

Over 1.5 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2019 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

Semifinalists have to fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of competition. They have to complete a detailed scholarship application that includes information about their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. They must also have outstanding academic records throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official and write an essay.

From the approximately 16,000 semifinalists, about 15,000 are expected to advance to the finalist level, and in February they will be notified of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599675876129.jpeg" alt="Spencer Angell&nbsp; /&nbsp;Photo courtesy USD 305" />
 <figcaption>Spencer Angell&nbsp; /&nbsp;Photo courtesy USD 305</figcaption>
 </figure>Spencer Angell, senior at Salina Central High School, was named Semifinalist for the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. Spencer will have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships. Spencer is the son of Samantha Parks Angell, a 1990 Hays High graduate.Over 1.5 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2019 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.Semifinalists have to fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of competition. They have to complete a detailed scholarship application that includes information about their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. They must also have outstanding academic records throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official and write an essay.From the approximately 16,000 semifinalists, about 15,000 are expected to advance to the finalist level, and in February they will be notified of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

Salina senior with Hays ties earns academic honors

Each year in the fall Frannie Miller, Pesticide training and IPM coordinator, plans trainings and looks forward to seeing applicators from across the state as they attend these commercial recertification training programs. This year will look a lot different in terms of training opportunities. Due to the ever presence of Covid, the Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program will be hosting virtual training opportunities through zoom. This will allow the applicator to obtain pest management credits from the safety of his or her home or office. Some applicators may feel they are technologically challenged, but don’t let that keep you from trying a new way of learning. The team is here to help you every step of the way! 

The Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program is hosting training on the following dates: 

· October 20 – 21 (9:20 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) (1:20 p.m. -3:30 p.m.) Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, and Noxious Weed Training (Category 6, 7C, &amp; 9A) 

· November 2 (12:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.) and November 3 (8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Stored Product Pests and Seed Treatment (Category 7B &amp; 4) 

· November 4 (9:20 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (Category 3A, 3B, &amp; 3C) 

· November 9 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Ag Plant (Category 1A) 

· November 10 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Structural and Public Health (Category 7D, 7E &amp; 8) 

· November 10 (12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.) Core Hour 

· November 12 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Wood Destroying and Wood Preservation (Category 7A &amp; 7F) 

· November 12 (12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.) Core Hour 

· November 13 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Forest Pest, Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (Category 2, 3A, 3B &amp; 3C) 

Flyers containing the registration information can be found on the Pesticide Safety and IPM webpage at: https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/commercial-applicator.html. If you use Facebook you may want to consider liking the Kansas State Pesticide Safety and IPM program page, which can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/KSRE-Pesticide-Safety-and-Integrated-Pest-Management-Program-109039044075447. 

Other groups or associations may be hosting other training opportunities. A complete list can be found at: https://portal.kda.ks.gov/PAF/PafTraining/TrainingEventList. 

If you don’t remember how many credits you have or need, you can look up your training status at: https://portal.kda.ks.gov/paf/pafapplicator/login/ 

If you have further questions regarding how this training will be conducted contact Frannie Miller at (620)241-1523 or e-mail fmiller@ksu.edu. 

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District</figcaption>
 </figure>Each year in the fall Frannie Miller, Pesticide training and IPM coordinator, plans trainings and looks forward to seeing applicators from across the state as they attend these commercial recertification training programs. This year will look a lot different in terms of training opportunities. Due to the ever presence of Covid, the Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program will be hosting virtual training opportunities through zoom. This will allow the applicator to obtain pest management credits from the safety of his or her home or office. Some applicators may feel they are technologically challenged, but don’t let that keep you from trying a new way of learning. The team is here to help you every step of the way! The Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program is hosting training on the following dates: · October 20 – 21 (9:20 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) (1:20 p.m. -3:30 p.m.) Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, and Noxious Weed Training (Category 6, 7C, &amp; 9A) · November 2 (12:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.) and November 3 (8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Stored Product Pests and Seed Treatment (Category 7B &amp; 4) · November 4 (9:20 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (Category 3A, 3B, &amp; 3C) · November 9 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Ag Plant (Category 1A) · November 10 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Structural and Public Health (Category 7D, 7E &amp; 8) · November 10 (12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.) Core Hour · November 12 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Wood Destroying and Wood Preservation (Category 7A &amp; 7F) · November 12 (12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.) Core Hour · November 13 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) Forest Pest, Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (Category 2, 3A, 3B &amp; 3C) Flyers containing the registration information can be found on the Pesticide Safety and IPM webpage at: https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/commercial-applicator.html. If you use Facebook you may want to consider liking the Kansas State Pesticide Safety and IPM program page, which can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/KSRE-Pesticide-Safety-and-Integrated-Pest-Management-Program-109039044075447. Other groups or associations may be hosting other training opportunities. A complete list can be found at: https://portal.kda.ks.gov/PAF/PafTraining/TrainingEventList. If you don’t remember how many credits you have or need, you can look up your training status at: https://portal.kda.ks.gov/paf/pafapplicator/login/ If you have further questions regarding how this training will be conducted contact Frannie Miller at (620)241-1523 or e-mail fmiller@ksu.edu. Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Pesticide training programs begin this month

CONCORDIA —&nbsp;The hiring of Dr. Kim Zant as Cloud County Community College's vice president for academic affairs was approved during a special board meeting Tuesday night.


Zant, who is currently the career pathways manager at Grossmont/Cuyamaca
 Community College District in El Cajun, Calif., will fill the position 
left vacant when Pedro Leite, vice president for academic affairs and 
student success, resigned in August.


A graduate of Fort Hays State University with a bachelor of arts degree 
in business education, Zant has a bachelor of business administration 
degree from Texas Tech University, a master of business administration 
degree from the University of South Carolina and a higher education 
leadership doctorate from Southwestern College in Winfield.


Zant will take over the position at Cloud County on Oct. 21.


Cloud County Interim President Amber Knoettgen said the search 
committee interviewed several candidates for the vice president position
 and brought two of those candidates to campus for a visit.


“It was a unanimous decision by the selection committee,” Knoettgen said of offering the job to Zant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601565842063.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By the Concordia Blade-EmpireCONCORDIA —&nbsp;The hiring of Dr. Kim Zant as Cloud County Community College's vice president for academic affairs was approved during a special board meeting Tuesday night.
Zant, who is currently the career pathways manager at Grossmont/Cuyamaca
 Community College District in El Cajun, Calif., will fill the position 
left vacant when Pedro Leite, vice president for academic affairs and 
student success, resigned in August.
A graduate of Fort Hays State University with a bachelor of arts degree 
in business education, Zant has a bachelor of business administration 
degree from Texas Tech University, a master of business administration 
degree from the University of South Carolina and a higher education 
leadership doctorate from Southwestern College in Winfield.
Zant will take over the position at Cloud County on Oct. 21.
Cloud County Interim President Amber Knoettgen said the search 
committee interviewed several candidates for the vice president position
 and brought two of those candidates to campus for a visit.
“It was a unanimous decision by the selection committee,” Knoettgen said of offering the job to Zant.Republished with permission.

FHSU grad named VP at Cloud County Community College

Not even a global pandemic can bring down the Tiger spirit as
Fort Hays University celebrates homecoming this week with a mix of in-person
and virtual events with a theme of Homecoming @Home.

“We know that they can’t come to Tigerland, so we are bringing
the Tiger Spirit to them,” said Tammy Wellbrock, FHSU Alumni Association
interim director.

“We have been working really hard to get our virtual
homecoming events up and off the ground and then making sure that all of our
alumni and friends are aware of the events going on,” said Noelle Husmann, FHSU Alumni
Association communications coordinator.

This year, Husmann said, the events are free and the virtual
events are open to anyone across the globe.

“We are hoping to get some good numbers this year just
because a lot of people have the opportunity to participate during this Homecoming @Home,” she said.

While many of this year’s events moved online, the goal is
to create an experience that can still bring the FHSU community together.

“That truly is our way of bringing the news, the celebration
and the honoring,” Wellbrock said. “Everything that is traditional about
homecoming — from the warm fuzzy sense
of the events — we are wanting to re-create.” 

With the shift to online events, Homecoming 2020 has the
potential to draw more people than ever before into the festivities.

“Certainly, we would have rather had everybody come visit and
us to be in person but as we have talked about here at the alumni association, we all know that 2020 homecoming is not going to look like 2019 — but I really
hope that the 2021 homecoming also doesn’t look like 2019,” Wellbrock said.
“We really want to maybe drive new traditions that can enable those people that
either can't travel due to health, can't travel due to distance and finances,
time, all those things they can still be able to interact with their fellow
alumni, Tiger friends and family and just be able to celebrate at a bigger
global level.”

By bringing the events online, many alumni who are unable
to come to Hays for the annual celebration can participate.

“I think the majority of people understand we are a global
institution reaching every place on the globe,” Wellbrock said. “That’s where
we would love to be able to continue to celebrate homecoming here on campus
because that is the heart of where everything happens, it all starts here. But it’s also not the only reality, and we certainly hope to be able to engage some
of the ideas that we are putting into place this year.”

She said she hopes to grow the online offering in the
future, even as life returns to normal.

While much of the FHSU homecoming shifted online, some
events are still planned in person.

On Thursday, the Alumni Golf Tournament is set to begin at 8:30
a.m. and the Tiger Alumni and Friends 5K Run/Walk will start at 8 a.m.
Saturday.

The 5K will also have a virtual component for those who are
not in Hays.

Other virtual events began earlier in the week, with
interviews with the alumni award winners that will culminate with an online celebration
at 7 p.m. Thursday.

“It’s a challenge to do this celebration while we can’t
actually be in person, but we have seven amazing award winners that are being
honored,” Wellbrock said.

<a href="https://m.facebook.com/FHSUAlumni/">The interviews are available for replay on the FHSU Alumni
Association Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;

Friday’s events include a virtual groundbreaking for the
Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success at 9 a.m.

And from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, a virtual reunion is
planned in an online space.

“Our office has been working really hard to find an innovative
way to connect with alumni,” Husmann
said. “We found this great online software that is a bit more interactive than
your typical video conferencing.”

Attendees will see be able to interact on a virtual quad
modeled after an 8-bit video game.

&nbsp;“You can walk around
a live campus and see people that way,” Husmann
said.

“It’s kind of a throwback gaming feel,” Wellbrock said. 

A big part of the celebration every year is the FHSU
football game, but even without games being played, the association has created
a fun solution.

Voice of the Tigers Gerard Wellbrock and Head Coach Chris
Brown will offer commentary during a replay of the Tigers and Northwest
Missouri State 2017 game.

“We are having those two actually do what we call a football
flashback,” Wellbrock said.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/fhsualumni/videos?view=0&amp;sort=dd&amp;shelf_id=1&amp;app=desktop">That is set to premiere on the FHSU Alumni Association youtube page at 7 p.m. Saturday.</a>

Overall, homecoming fits into FHSU President Tisa Mason’s
goal for the year — convert don’t cancel.

“Lots to be proud of, lots to celebrate during the
homecoming week and a lot of people are making it happen,” said Scott Cason,
FHSU chief communications officer.

Despite the challenges of the year and the work required to
pull off the event, Wellbrock is grateful for the opportunity to bring FHSU
together.

“The opportunity to celebrate is always there and we are
glad that we get to be a part of it,” Wellbrock said.

<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/homecoming/schedule/schedule-of-events">A full schedule of events and links to the virtual events
can be found by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600560431482.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="FHSU celebrates homecoming with virtual events" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/969ss-edc861?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostNot even a global pandemic can bring down the Tiger spirit as
Fort Hays University celebrates homecoming this week with a mix of in-person
and virtual events with a theme of Homecoming @Home.“We know that they can’t come to Tigerland, so we are bringing
the Tiger Spirit to them,” said Tammy Wellbrock, FHSU Alumni Association
interim director.“We have been working really hard to get our virtual
homecoming events up and off the ground and then making sure that all of our
alumni and friends are aware of the events going on,” said Noelle Husmann, FHSU Alumni
Association communications coordinator.This year, Husmann said, the events are free and the virtual
events are open to anyone across the globe.“We are hoping to get some good numbers this year just
because a lot of people have the opportunity to participate during this Homecoming @Home,” she said.While many of this year’s events moved online, the goal is
to create an experience that can still bring the FHSU community together.“That truly is our way of bringing the news, the celebration
and the honoring,” Wellbrock said. “Everything that is traditional about
homecoming — from the warm fuzzy sense
of the events — we are wanting to re-create.” With the shift to online events, Homecoming 2020 has the
potential to draw more people than ever before into the festivities.“Certainly, we would have rather had everybody come visit and
us to be in person but as we have talked about here at the alumni association, we all know that 2020 homecoming is not going to look like 2019 — but I really
hope that the 2021 homecoming also doesn’t look like 2019,” Wellbrock said.
“We really want to maybe drive new traditions that can enable those people that
either can't travel due to health, can't travel due to distance and finances,
time, all those things they can still be able to interact with their fellow
alumni, Tiger friends and family and just be able to celebrate at a bigger
global level.”By bringing the events online, many alumni who are unable
to come to Hays for the annual celebration can participate.“I think the majority of people understand we are a global
institution reaching every place on the globe,” Wellbrock said. “That’s where
we would love to be able to continue to celebrate homecoming here on campus
because that is the heart of where everything happens, it all starts here. But it’s also not the only reality, and we certainly hope to be able to engage some
of the ideas that we are putting into place this year.”She said she hopes to grow the online offering in the
future, even as life returns to normal.<h2>The events</h2>While much of the FHSU homecoming shifted online, some
events are still planned in person.On Thursday, the Alumni Golf Tournament is set to begin at 8:30
a.m. and the Tiger Alumni and Friends 5K Run/Walk will start at 8 a.m.
Saturday.The 5K will also have a virtual component for those who are
not in Hays.Other virtual events began earlier in the week, with
interviews with the alumni award winners that will culminate with an online celebration
at 7 p.m. Thursday.“It’s a challenge to do this celebration while we can’t
actually be in person, but we have seven amazing award winners that are being
honored,” Wellbrock said.<a href="https://m.facebook.com/FHSUAlumni/">The interviews are available for replay on the FHSU Alumni
Association Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601516925379.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Friday’s events include a virtual groundbreaking for the
Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success at 9 a.m.And from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, a virtual reunion is
planned in an online space.“Our office has been working really hard to find an innovative
way to connect with alumni,” Husmann
said. “We found this great online software that is a bit more interactive than
your typical video conferencing.”Attendees will see be able to interact on a virtual quad
modeled after an 8-bit video game.&nbsp;“You can walk around
a live campus and see people that way,” Husmann
said.“It’s kind of a throwback gaming feel,” Wellbrock said. A big part of the celebration every year is the FHSU
football game, but even without games being played, the association has created
a fun solution.Voice of the Tigers Gerard Wellbrock and Head Coach Chris
Brown will offer commentary during a replay of the Tigers and Northwest
Missouri State 2017 game.“We are having those two actually do what we call a football
flashback,” Wellbrock said.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/fhsualumni/videos?view=0&amp;sort=dd&amp;shelf_id=1&amp;app=desktop">That is set to premiere on the FHSU Alumni Association youtube page at 7 p.m. Saturday.</a>Overall, homecoming fits into FHSU President Tisa Mason’s
goal for the year — convert don’t cancel.“Lots to be proud of, lots to celebrate during the
homecoming week and a lot of people are making it happen,” said Scott Cason,
FHSU chief communications officer.Despite the challenges of the year and the work required to
pull off the event, Wellbrock is grateful for the opportunity to bring FHSU
together.“The opportunity to celebrate is always there and we are
glad that we get to be a part of it,” Wellbrock said.<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/homecoming/schedule/schedule-of-events">A full schedule of events and links to the virtual events
can be found by clicking here.</a>

🎙FHSU celebrates Homecoming @Home with virtual events

By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County Review

PHILLIPSBURG — Phillips County continues having one of the highest per capita outbreaks of COVID-19 in the state of Kansas, with another 24 cases hitting in seven days. &nbsp;

These latest numbers bring total cases up to four dozen in just over two weeks time, as well as 69 during the course of the current explosion that started the week of Aug. 16 and had a local college-age student as patient zero.

These are significant numbers in comparison with other counties in our region, except for Rooks County, which is also having serious problems (see below).

Hopes For Reduction&nbsp;In Outbreak Dashed

Phillips County had earlier had a mass outbreak at the Logan Manor Nursing Home. &nbsp;That crisis had run its course by early August, and as of the second week of that month Phillips County was COVID-free — no lingering cases and no new cases.

That was until the newer, unrelated outbreak began the week of Aug. 16. &nbsp;

Now over a month later, there had been some hope COVID had finally hit a plateau in recent days as the Phillips County Health Department reported early this week that cases had held steady over the course of last weekend and no new ones had came in.

However, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment stood at odds with that data, reporting four new diagnoses hit Phillips County over last weekend.

KDHE numbers usually lag a day or two behind Phillips County Health Department’s due to the time it takes for the health department to transfer data to Topeka, and then for KDHE to update that data at their end.

That process somehow was reversed last weekend when on Fri., Sept. 18, both Phillips County Health and KDHE’s overall numbers for Phillips County stood at a total of 116 since the pandemic began in March.

Then on Monday, Phillips County Health reported “No New Positive Cases of Novel Coronavirus In Phillips County” over the weekend, noting the number had remained at 116.

KDHE, on the other hand, upped their own count to 120 on Monday. &nbsp;The&nbsp;Review&nbsp;is attempting to ascertain the reason for the discrepancy.

A new milestone was hit last week as a girl under the age of 5 years old was diagnosed with the disease in Phillips County, making for the youngest local victim since the pandemic began in March.

In addition, in Phillips County COVID struck every single KDHE age category except one last week — and there are ten different such categories.

According to state health officials, last week’s Phillips County COVID victims fell into the following age ranges:

Based upon the data points reported above, the obvious local highest risk groups from last week were college-age kids 18-24, as well as middle age to elderly individuals ages 45-84.

But, in digging deeper and looking at more detailed metadata the&nbsp;Phillips County Review&nbsp;has accessed, the subcategories of the Phillips County social groups which were at the highest risk of being diagnosed with the disease last week appear to have been men in their 50s — they accounted for fully one-fourth of all local COVID cases for that time period.

In addition, college age women in Phillips County also had a spike last week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594071502884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Two dozen new cases in seven days</h2>By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County ReviewPHILLIPSBURG — Phillips County continues having one of the highest per capita outbreaks of COVID-19 in the state of Kansas, with another 24 cases hitting in seven days. &nbsp;These latest numbers bring total cases up to four dozen in just over two weeks time, as well as 69 during the course of the current explosion that started the week of Aug. 16 and had a local college-age student as patient zero.These are significant numbers in comparison with other counties in our region, except for Rooks County, which is also having serious problems (see below).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601394813351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hopes For Reduction&nbsp;In Outbreak DashedPhillips County had earlier had a mass outbreak at the Logan Manor Nursing Home. &nbsp;That crisis had run its course by early August, and as of the second week of that month Phillips County was COVID-free — no lingering cases and no new cases.That was until the newer, unrelated outbreak began the week of Aug. 16. &nbsp;Now over a month later, there had been some hope COVID had finally hit a plateau in recent days as the Phillips County Health Department reported early this week that cases had held steady over the course of last weekend and no new ones had came in.However, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment stood at odds with that data, reporting four new diagnoses hit Phillips County over last weekend.KDHE numbers usually lag a day or two behind Phillips County Health Department’s due to the time it takes for the health department to transfer data to Topeka, and then for KDHE to update that data at their end.That process somehow was reversed last weekend when on Fri., Sept. 18, both Phillips County Health and KDHE’s overall numbers for Phillips County stood at a total of 116 since the pandemic began in March.Then on Monday, Phillips County Health reported “No New Positive Cases of Novel Coronavirus In Phillips County” over the weekend, noting the number had remained at 116.KDHE, on the other hand, upped their own count to 120 on Monday. &nbsp;The&nbsp;Review&nbsp;is attempting to ascertain the reason for the discrepancy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601394813351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Girl Under Age FiveA new milestone was hit last week as a girl under the age of 5 years old was diagnosed with the disease in Phillips County, making for the youngest local victim since the pandemic began in March.In addition, in Phillips County COVID struck every single KDHE age category except one last week — and there are ten different such categories.According to state health officials, last week’s Phillips County COVID victims fell into the following age ranges:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601394763490.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Based upon the data points reported above, the obvious local highest risk groups from last week were college-age kids 18-24, as well as middle age to elderly individuals ages 45-84.Digging DeeperBut, in digging deeper and looking at more detailed metadata the&nbsp;Phillips County Review&nbsp;has accessed, the subcategories of the Phillips County social groups which were at the highest risk of being diagnosed with the disease last week appear to have been men in their 50s — they accounted for fully one-fourth of all local COVID cases for that time period.In addition, college age women in Phillips County also had a spike last week.The Center for Disease Control continues to assert the best way to avoid contracting COVID-19 is to avoid crowds, wear masks in public, and practice social distancing.

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