By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

There is still time to pick up a backpack of school supplies in Hays.

The Backpacks for Kids program, which is sponsored by First Call for Help, handed out backpacks to families who preregistered for the program Thursday.

However, families who did not register can pick up backpacks from 8 a.m. to noon Friday on the south side of the Presbyterian Church,&nbsp;2900 Hall. Registered families can pick up backpacks until 6 p.m. today at the same location.

&nbsp;Families registered for 318 backpacks this year, which is down from previous years, Schoaff said.&nbsp;

However, First Call packed 777 backpacks to fill the needs for families who may have missed the registration deadline.

If you miss both the distribution days, contact First Call for Help at&nbsp;785-623-2800.&nbsp;

Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school, in both public and private schools, whose families are low-income or who have financial hardships are eligible. No proof of income is required to pickup a backpack.

The backpacks are coordinated for gender and grade. Families can also pickup up hygiene packs and masks for their children during the distribution.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Students in all Hays schools, both public and private, will be required to wear masks this school year.

Hygiene packs include a full bottle of shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and bar of soap. Third graders and older also receive deodorant. The dental items were donated by Delta Dental.

If you did not receive a mask when you picked up your supplies, contact the First Call for Help to arrange to pickup masks for your children. Some families may have been missed early on Thursday morning.

Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help Project coordinator, said COVID-19 limited some of the project's ability to reach families about the program.

Local schools usually send out notes in backpacks about the program, but school was not in session during the spring. The program also diverted some of the funds it usually dedicates to advertising the program to buying supplies because donations were down this year.

However, First Call was able to amass enough supplies to fill all of the backpacks.

First Call for Help modified its distribution process this year, taking in mind COVID-19 precautions. A drive-through system has been set up, and volunteers are wearing masks.

Shoaff said the community was very generous, answering the call to donate hundreds of handmade children's face masks.

The community also stepped up to donate other items, such as wide-ruled notebook paper and colored pencils, which First Call ran short of as the packing process neared completion, Shoaff said.

"I am so excited about the community we live in because we receive so much help from the community. ... I think we are so fortunate to have a welcoming community who cares about each other," Shoaff said.

Eighteen volunteers signed up to help during the two distribution days. A group of Hays High School football players also helped unload the backpacks for First Call for Help.

Quinton McQuire, a HHS sophomore, and Ashton Putz, HHS sophomore, both offered to stay and assist with the backpack distribution.

"Our coach sent out a text yesterday asking for help setting up cones outside," McGuire said. "Then asked if anyone could help today, and I figured I would come out and help the community."

Caitlin Leiker, HHS senior, has been a regular volunteer with First Call for Help. She has helped pack backpacks in past years.

"I wasn't able to participate in the actual giving away of the bags last year," she said, "so I figured I would give it a shot this year. It's been a lot of fun. ...

"It is so awesome to see the kids with those big smiles, and 'Oh, yeah! That's the one I wanted.' That's great. It's a great cause, and I'm glad to be a part of it."

First Call for Help accepts donations of school supplies and monetary donations for the Backpack for Kids program year round. You can find more on the program on <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/events">First Call for Help's website</a>.

"This is kind of a cool project to get your kids involved in if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford extra school supplies," Shoaff said. "I see a lot of families that have young children, and they will let them pick out a backpack for someone else and they get to pick out the school supplies.

"They will say on it, 'This is for a third grader at O'Loughlin.' The kids get so excited to think someone else is going to get their bag."

The Backpacks for Kids program has been conducted annually in Hays since 1981.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596742706505.jpeg" alt="Volunteers man a station at the Backpack for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Volunteers man a station at the Backpack for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThere is still time to pick up a backpack of school supplies in Hays.The Backpacks for Kids program, which is sponsored by First Call for Help, handed out backpacks to families who preregistered for the program Thursday.However, families who did not register can pick up backpacks from 8 a.m. to noon Friday on the south side of the Presbyterian Church,&nbsp;2900 Hall. Registered families can pick up backpacks until 6 p.m. today at the same location.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743256308.jpeg" alt="A woman smiles as she receives a free mask for her child during the Backpacks for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays." />
 <figcaption>A woman smiles as she receives a free mask for her child during the Backpacks for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Families registered for 318 backpacks this year, which is down from previous years, Schoaff said.&nbsp;However, First Call packed 777 backpacks to fill the needs for families who may have missed the registration deadline.If you miss both the distribution days, contact First Call for Help at&nbsp;785-623-2800.&nbsp;Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school, in both public and private schools, whose families are low-income or who have financial hardships are eligible. No proof of income is required to pickup a backpack.The backpacks are coordinated for gender and grade. Families can also pickup up hygiene packs and masks for their children during the distribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students in all Hays schools, both public and private, will be required to wear masks this school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596742881973.jpeg" alt="Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, holds up one of hygiene bags that is being distributed along with schools supplies as part of the Backpack for Kids program." />
 <figcaption>Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, holds up one of hygiene bags that is being distributed along with schools supplies as part of the Backpack for Kids program.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hygiene packs include a full bottle of shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and bar of soap. Third graders and older also receive deodorant. The dental items were donated by Delta Dental.If you did not receive a mask when you picked up your supplies, contact the First Call for Help to arrange to pickup masks for your children. Some families may have been missed early on Thursday morning.Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help Project coordinator, said COVID-19 limited some of the project's ability to reach families about the program.Local schools usually send out notes in backpacks about the program, but school was not in session during the spring. The program also diverted some of the funds it usually dedicates to advertising the program to buying supplies because donations were down this year.However, First Call was able to amass enough supplies to fill all of the backpacks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743046246.jpeg" alt="Volunteers assist with backpack distribution Thursday as part of the Backpack for Kids program. More than 700 backpacks with donated school supplies were packed for this year's program.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers assist with backpack distribution Thursday as part of the Backpack for Kids program. More than 700 backpacks with donated school supplies were packed for this year's program.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>First Call for Help modified its distribution process this year, taking in mind COVID-19 precautions. A drive-through system has been set up, and volunteers are wearing masks.Shoaff said the community was very generous, answering the call to donate hundreds of handmade children's face masks.The community also stepped up to donate other items, such as wide-ruled notebook paper and colored pencils, which First Call ran short of as the packing process neared completion, Shoaff said."I am so excited about the community we live in because we receive so much help from the community. ... I think we are so fortunate to have a welcoming community who cares about each other," Shoaff said.Eighteen volunteers signed up to help during the two distribution days. A group of Hays High School football players also helped unload the backpacks for First Call for Help.Quinton McQuire, a HHS sophomore, and Ashton Putz, HHS sophomore, both offered to stay and assist with the backpack distribution."Our coach sent out a text yesterday asking for help setting up cones outside," McGuire said. "Then asked if anyone could help today, and I figured I would come out and help the community."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743209716.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Caitlin Leiker, HHS senior, has been a regular volunteer with First Call for Help. She has helped pack backpacks in past years."I wasn't able to participate in the actual giving away of the bags last year," she said, "so I figured I would give it a shot this year. It's been a lot of fun. ..."It is so awesome to see the kids with those big smiles, and 'Oh, yeah! That's the one I wanted.' That's great. It's a great cause, and I'm glad to be a part of it."First Call for Help accepts donations of school supplies and monetary donations for the Backpack for Kids program year round. You can find more on the program on <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/events">First Call for Help's website</a>."This is kind of a cool project to get your kids involved in if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford extra school supplies," Shoaff said. "I see a lot of families that have young children, and they will let them pick out a backpack for someone else and they get to pick out the school supplies."They will say on it, 'This is for a third grader at O'Loughlin.' The kids get so excited to think someone else is going to get their bag."The Backpacks for Kids program has been conducted annually in Hays since 1981.

Backpacks for Kids hopes to attract non-registered families Friday

One person detained, but investigation ongoing

ELLIS — An investigation by the Ellis Police Department is underway after a string of car burglaries occurred late Tuesday night and into the early morning hours Wednesday.

Ellis Police Chief Chris Krom said 11 to 12 victims had come forward by Thursday morning, but reports are continuing to come in.

"Basically, the person was breaking into unlocked vehicles and rummaging around, taking various items and leaving the door slightly ajar," Krom said.

The reports came from various parts of the city, he said, but were in residential areas.

The burglaries were thought to have occurred mainly between the hours of 1 to 4 a.m. Wednesday, but Krom believes it is likely the suspect began earlier in the evening.

"From what we can tell, the person committing the crimes was doing it by themself," he said.

Krom is asking any Ellis resident with outdoor cameras covering vehicles to check footage from Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, even if the vehicle was not broken into and report suspicious activity to the police department.

One suspect has been detained, but the stolen property remains missing and the investigation is ongoing.

Krom said he was thankful for the public's assistance with the investigation.

<h2>One person detained, but investigation ongoing</h2>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — An investigation by the Ellis Police Department is underway after a string of car burglaries occurred late Tuesday night and into the early morning hours Wednesday.Ellis Police Chief Chris Krom said 11 to 12 victims had come forward by Thursday morning, but reports are continuing to come in."Basically, the person was breaking into unlocked vehicles and rummaging around, taking various items and leaving the door slightly ajar," Krom said.The reports came from various parts of the city, he said, but were in residential areas.The burglaries were thought to have occurred mainly between the hours of 1 to 4 a.m. Wednesday, but Krom believes it is likely the suspect began earlier in the evening."From what we can tell, the person committing the crimes was doing it by themself," he said.Krom is asking any Ellis resident with outdoor cameras covering vehicles to check footage from Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, even if the vehicle was not broken into and report suspicious activity to the police department.One suspect has been detained, but the stolen property remains missing and the investigation is ongoing.Krom said he was thankful for the public's assistance with the investigation.

Ellis PD investigating a string of car burglaries

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🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU readies for students return

Out of all of the regular camping traditions, one childhood favorite stands out as a necessary part of the experience — S'mores.

On Saturday at Cedar Bluff State Park, the beloved campfire favorite will be celebrated during the inaugural S'moresfest, a unique event that will include a cooking competition, bonfire, music and games.

"I think what is nice about this is, I've done the research and I can't find another Smoresfest anywhere else,"&nbsp;said Amber McLaughlin, administrative specialist.

The cook-off will kick off the events at 3 p.m. at the Community Shelter in the Bluffton Park.

"If you have ever been to a cook-off, you know they are kind of fun,"&nbsp; McLaughlin said.

Graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate are the required ingredients, but anything else can be added and can be made in any combination or form, she said.

"I think it will be a unique event. ... Everybody has chili cook-offs, but who has a Smoresfest and cook-off?" McLaughlin said.

Judging will begin at 6 p.m. and the winner will receive half of the total collected entry fees. The remainder of the funds raised will be used for future events at the park.

After the cooking competition, there will be S'mores-themed activities beginning at 7 p.m.

"We are calling them the Smore Games," McLaughlin said. "They will be like minute-to-win-it type games."

Some of the games planned include "Shake your Smore," where participants will shake marshmallows from a box around their waist, "Cookie Face," where participants will move a graham cracker from their face into their mouth, and the tallest S'mores contest.

McLaughlin said the games and events are a fun way for people to get together safely, noting organizers are are conscious of social distancing and will keep participants at a safe distance from each other.

Wrapping up the event will be a group campfire at 9 p.m.

"You came just come and bring your chair and have a S'more,"&nbsp;McLaughlin said.

Local musician Tim Schumacher will play during the campfire.

"What is better than a campfire and a guitar?" McLaughlin said.

Overall, McLaughlin said events like these help showcase the state parks and can be a way to bring people together for wholesome fun.

"I definitely feel like it is important. It gives people an activity and things to do," she said. "Plus I like to think of people that have never camped before. They come to the park, they come to the event and they think 'this place is really awesome' then they come back and bring a tent, or buy a boat and they come back next time."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596656565549.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostOut of all of the regular camping traditions, one childhood favorite stands out as a necessary part of the experience — S'mores.On Saturday at Cedar Bluff State Park, the beloved campfire favorite will be celebrated during the inaugural S'moresfest, a unique event that will include a cooking competition, bonfire, music and games."I think what is nice about this is, I've done the research and I can't find another Smoresfest anywhere else,"&nbsp;said Amber McLaughlin, administrative specialist.The cook-off will kick off the events at 3 p.m. at the Community Shelter in the Bluffton Park.The entry fee for the cook-off is $20."If you have ever been to a cook-off, you know they are kind of fun,"&nbsp; McLaughlin said.Graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate are the required ingredients, but anything else can be added and can be made in any combination or form, she said."I think it will be a unique event. ... Everybody has chili cook-offs, but who has a Smoresfest and cook-off?" McLaughlin said.Judging will begin at 6 p.m. and the winner will receive half of the total collected entry fees. The remainder of the funds raised will be used for future events at the park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596659362889.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After the cooking competition, there will be S'mores-themed activities beginning at 7 p.m."We are calling them the Smore Games," McLaughlin said. "They will be like minute-to-win-it type games."Some of the games planned include "Shake your Smore," where participants will shake marshmallows from a box around their waist, "Cookie Face," where participants will move a graham cracker from their face into their mouth, and the tallest S'mores contest.McLaughlin said the games and events are a fun way for people to get together safely, noting organizers are are conscious of social distancing and will keep participants at a safe distance from each other.Wrapping up the event will be a group campfire at 9 p.m."You came just come and bring your chair and have a S'more,"&nbsp;McLaughlin said.Local musician Tim Schumacher will play during the campfire."What is better than a campfire and a guitar?" McLaughlin said.Overall, McLaughlin said events like these help showcase the state parks and can be a way to bring people together for wholesome fun."I definitely feel like it is important. It gives people an activity and things to do," she said. "Plus I like to think of people that have never camped before. They come to the park, they come to the event and they think 'this place is really awesome' then they come back and bring a tent, or buy a boat and they come back next time."&nbsp;

S'moresfest planned for this weekend at Cedar Bluff

The Backpacks For Kids distribution will be through 6 p.m. today at the Presbyterian Church in Hays for registered students only.

Backpacks full of school supplies as well as hygiene bags and masks will be available for non-registered families from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at the same location.

The Backpacks For Kids distribution will be through 6 p.m. today at the Presbyterian Church in Hays for registered students only.Backpacks full of school supplies as well as hygiene bags and masks will be available for non-registered families from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at the same location.

Backpack for Kids distribution today; non-registered families can pick up Friday

Affordable and reliable health insurance and coverage is one of the largest expenses for large and small employers alike.&nbsp; That is why The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is working with Heartland Benefits to provide affordable health and wellness benefits to its members beginning in January 2021.&nbsp; Those desiring to participate in the plan must be a chamber member in good standing (current on dues) and have a business membership status with The Chamber 30 days (12/1/2020) prior to the effective plan date. This health plan benefit will be available for all businesses, even sole proprietors, including farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;

The goal of this program is to come together as a community to provide an economical health insurance option to area businesses that focuses on keeping costs down year after year, by implementing cost containment strategies to mitigate as many costs as possible. Maximum participation will yield the greatest cost savings for members, and there is no obligation to join the plan if it is not the right fit for businesses.&nbsp;

The Chamber’s Health Insurance Plan is governed by a 13-member board that will make decisions for this health insurance plan. This board is comprised of local healthcare professionals/administrators, insurance experts, and small and large employer representation. This team is ultimately responsible for maintaining a fiduciary responsibility for all who participate in the plan and keeping the best interest of the community’s health as the guiding principle for making decisions.&nbsp; Health/Rx/Dental/Vision aspects of the program are being finalized. &nbsp;

More information will be disclosed during another upcoming town hall presentation. The presentation will be hosted at The Venue at Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill located at 2704 Vine St., Ste. B on August 20th at noon.&nbsp; Attendees can RSVP for $12 online at <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/events">www.hayschamber.com/events</a>.&nbsp; A meal will be provided to those who register, and the session should last approximately one hour.&nbsp; Those not wishing to eat may RSVP to attend this event for free by calling The Chamber office at 785-628-8201.&nbsp; Only 25 spots are available for this in-person presentation.&nbsp; Those unable to attend in person will also be able to watch via Facebook Live on The Chamber’s Facebook page.&nbsp; Health plan advisor, Joshua Sapp, President/CEO of Heartland Benefits Group, LLC (HBG), will be sharing information about the plan and answering questions. HBG is currently working with multiple chambers of commerce across Kansas on similar health insurance offerings for their members.

About The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan:

Questions about The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan can be addressed to: Joshua Sapp, President/CEO, Heartland Benefits Group, LLC, jsapp@heartlandbg.net, 316-670-2856

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588269644630.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseAffordable and reliable health insurance and coverage is one of the largest expenses for large and small employers alike.&nbsp; That is why The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is working with Heartland Benefits to provide affordable health and wellness benefits to its members beginning in January 2021.&nbsp; Those desiring to participate in the plan must be a chamber member in good standing (current on dues) and have a business membership status with The Chamber 30 days (12/1/2020) prior to the effective plan date. This health plan benefit will be available for all businesses, even sole proprietors, including farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;The goal of this program is to come together as a community to provide an economical health insurance option to area businesses that focuses on keeping costs down year after year, by implementing cost containment strategies to mitigate as many costs as possible. Maximum participation will yield the greatest cost savings for members, and there is no obligation to join the plan if it is not the right fit for businesses.&nbsp;The Chamber’s Health Insurance Plan is governed by a 13-member board that will make decisions for this health insurance plan. This board is comprised of local healthcare professionals/administrators, insurance experts, and small and large employer representation. This team is ultimately responsible for maintaining a fiduciary responsibility for all who participate in the plan and keeping the best interest of the community’s health as the guiding principle for making decisions.&nbsp; Health/Rx/Dental/Vision aspects of the program are being finalized. &nbsp;More information will be disclosed during another upcoming town hall presentation. The presentation will be hosted at The Venue at Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill located at 2704 Vine St., Ste. B on August 20th at noon.&nbsp; Attendees can RSVP for $12 online at <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/events">www.hayschamber.com/events</a>.&nbsp; A meal will be provided to those who register, and the session should last approximately one hour.&nbsp; Those not wishing to eat may RSVP to attend this event for free by calling The Chamber office at 785-628-8201.&nbsp; Only 25 spots are available for this in-person presentation.&nbsp; Those unable to attend in person will also be able to watch via Facebook Live on The Chamber’s Facebook page.&nbsp; Health plan advisor, Joshua Sapp, President/CEO of Heartland Benefits Group, LLC (HBG), will be sharing information about the plan and answering questions. HBG is currently working with multiple chambers of commerce across Kansas on similar health insurance offerings for their members.About The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan:<ol>
 <li>Chamber Association Health Plan (AHP) - work by allowing small businesses, including self-employed entities as well as sole proprietors, to band together by geography, industry, or chamber to obtain health insurance coverage as if they were a single large employer.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>There will be an employee population participation percentage of 65% of qualifying employees (excludes employees who have signed waivers).&nbsp; All employees are encouraged to complete a health questionnaire, even any of those employees who may likely waive coverage.&nbsp; If coverage is waived, then those employees will not be able to enroll at a later date, unless they meet a qualified life event, or until open enrollment of the next plan year.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Provider Networks - For in Kansas care, all claims will be processed through the ProviDrs Care Network. (providrscare.net - access code to search in-network providers is PCN). Nationwide coverage will utilize the First Health Network. (firsthealth.com – no access code needed).&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Individual Invoicing - each participating employer will receive their own invoice for the premiums of their&nbsp;participating employees. Premiums will be paid to the plan administrator to pay claims and administer funds accordingly.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>ACA Compliance - because this is 100% ACA compliant insurance, each employer will be required to pay at&nbsp;least 50% of the most economical single option for each participating employee.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Health Questionnaires – The link to the questionnaire will be provided in a Chamber communication on Tuesday, 9/1.&nbsp; MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL!!!&nbsp; Employees MUST complete a health questionnaire by September 22nd to be considered eligible for coverage. For underwriting purposes, health history for each individual participating is needed to determine the rates for this insurance plan.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Businesses are NOT contractually obligated to this plan until signing for the benefit at enrollment during the confirmation period.&nbsp; This is an incredible opportunity for businesses to investigate potentially substantial cost savings for employee benefits.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>The timeline for important dates for the exciting new offering is as follows:</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>9/1 - 9/22 - Health questionnaire period</li><li>9/23 - 10/14 - Underwriting period</li><li>10/15 - 10/29 - Enrollment period</li><li>10/30 - 11/11 - Enrollment review</li><li>11/12 - 11/19 - Confirm enrollment</li><li>11/23 - 12/7 - CPM prepare packages and send to participating members</li><li>1/1/2021 - PLAN START DATE</li>
 </ul><ol>
 <li>A list of plans and coverages can be found by visiting <a href="https://hayschamber.com/chamber-health-insurance-and-wellness-plans">https://hayschamber.com/chamber-health-insurance-and-wellness-plans</a>.&nbsp; Premium costs for this plan will be disclosed to participating businesses after the underwriting period takes place.&nbsp; Once final enrollments are confirmed, only participating member businesses will be provided with the final premium costs.</li>
 </ol>Questions about The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan can be addressed to: Joshua Sapp, President/CEO, Heartland Benefits Group, LLC, jsapp@heartlandbg.net, 316-670-2856

Hays chamber lays out details of health, wellness plan

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e95b2bdc-da0e-4a16-885b-c6fb1923c668">This month, work on a major remodel will begin at the Hays Public Library</a>, the first work on the building since a remodel in 2004.

While the work is being completed, library patrons may be impacted, but staff is working to keep disruptions to a minimum.

"It will impact our services for quite a while, but once we get it completed, it's going to be pretty incredible and we are going to be a lot better off for it," said HPL director Brandon Hines.

"We will close some. We might have to adjust our hours," Hines said. "People might have to put up with a lot of noise."

From Aug. 13 to 20, the facility is tentatively scheduled to be closed while many of&nbsp;the collections will be moved to allow work to begin, but services will still be available.

And the new bookmobile will be made more available as the library is closed.&nbsp;

"Even when we are closed, our bookmobile schedule is online and we are planning on increasing the number of stops that we are going to make," Hines said. "We know it is going to be a great way to extend our reach while the doors are closed and some of our services are limited by the remodel project."

"Over the last six months, we have really been promoting that and it has been a big part of our offerings," Hines said.

While there will be disruptions, the end result will be a library better suited for patron use.

"We have a beautiful place and we really haven't had to touch much of our physical space since then," Hines said.&nbsp;

But changing technology and services have quickly dated the facility.

"One example I like to share," Hines said. "When we opened up in 2004, I think we had 16 public internet computers on the adult level. We had 12 in the children's level and we had nine in the young adult level. So we had a ton of computers. In 2010, we had over 50,000 people use our public internet computers. About that time, smartphones became popular and, last year, we were down to about 30,000 computer users. We were down 40 percent over what we were 10 years ago. People don't need the physical PCs because they have their phones — their little computers — in their pockets."

During the first six months of 2019, facility planning began, including community stakeholder meetings.&nbsp;

"At the end of that six months, in the middle of last year, we transitioned into a build based on the information we gathered," Hines said.

<a href="https://www.gouldevans.com/">The architects firm Gould Evans was chosen for the design work.</a>

"They recently completed the Art and Design building on campus and they also have some good library experience," Hines said.

The project went out to bid end of June and was recently accepted. 

Paul Wartenberger Construction submitted the lowest bid and won the contract.

"We are excited to work with them," Hines said. "We are really lucky to have such great local contractors and to receive multiple bids was a real gift for us."

They also did the work during the 2004 HPL remodel.

On the main floor, the entranceway will be changed significantly.

"For better or worse we are not a quiet as other libraries," Hines said.

"We really want to take that desk and spread it and deploy staff members throughout the entire library," he said. "That way we can help people in the stacks and in other places."

The large desks in the middle of the adult and youth departments will also be split up.

Having staff be more visible to help guide patrons will also be a feature of the new setup.

The front entryway will remain an engaging space, but will become more of a community commons area, Hines said.

"This front area will be that community commons where people will come have a cup of coffee, it's going to be a bit more engaging and with that, we are going to have great lighting and great seating," he said.

Four large windows in the area will open the space and create an inviting ascetic for those in and out.

"Especially in the wintertime, when it gets dark at 4:30-5:00 p.m., driving by the library you will see those bright lights on it will be a place that is warm and inviting and busy and its a place that people are going to want to be," Hines said.&nbsp;

Small meeting rooms and quiet areas will also be a feature of that space allowing for those that desire an area for uninterrupted work.

"The Schmidt Foundation is really what is making that possible," Hines said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bd4dffcb-cd5e-4fab-a809-416ae722eba7">The foundation committed $100,000 to that area.</a>

Technology services will be consolidated into one area, with a staff member dedicated to the space.

"We are going to call that the Nex-Tech Business Center, Hines said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9904caee-4154-4a05-b3da-554479047b25">They contributed $10,000</a>&nbsp;for space.

On the children's level, the 1968 entryway window will be opened up creating new rooms and workspaces.

"We are going to create a family bathroom, that's updated," Hines said.

A study area and nursing room will also be put in.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0220184e-758b-45e2-9a7d-09ac89b8ea2a">The Heartland Foundation awarded the library $5,000 for that portion of the project.&nbsp;</a>

"One of the most exciting things of the whole project is our new early literacy area," Hines said. "It was an immediate priority that we knew we need."

<a href="https://hayslibrary.org/remodel/">For more information about the project visit the HPL website.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230328587.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Big changes on the way for the Hays Public Library" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ntpcu-e531cc?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth=&amp;btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e95b2bdc-da0e-4a16-885b-c6fb1923c668">This month, work on a major remodel will begin at the Hays Public Library</a>, the first work on the building since a remodel in 2004.While the work is being completed, library patrons may be impacted, but staff is working to keep disruptions to a minimum."It will impact our services for quite a while, but once we get it completed, it's going to be pretty incredible and we are going to be a lot better off for it," said HPL director Brandon Hines."We will close some. We might have to adjust our hours," Hines said. "People might have to put up with a lot of noise."From Aug. 13 to 20, the facility is tentatively scheduled to be closed while many of&nbsp;the collections will be moved to allow work to begin, but services will still be available.And the new bookmobile will be made more available as the library is closed.&nbsp;"Even when we are closed, our bookmobile schedule is online and we are planning on increasing the number of stops that we are going to make," Hines said. "We know it is going to be a great way to extend our reach while the doors are closed and some of our services are limited by the remodel project."Online services will not be impacted."Over the last six months, we have really been promoting that and it has been a big part of our offerings," Hines said.While there will be disruptions, the end result will be a library better suited for patron use."We have a beautiful place and we really haven't had to touch much of our physical space since then," Hines said.&nbsp;But changing technology and services have quickly dated the facility."One example I like to share," Hines said. "When we opened up in 2004, I think we had 16 public internet computers on the adult level. We had 12 in the children's level and we had nine in the young adult level. So we had a ton of computers. In 2010, we had over 50,000 people use our public internet computers. About that time, smartphones became popular and, last year, we were down to about 30,000 computer users. We were down 40 percent over what we were 10 years ago. People don't need the physical PCs because they have their phones — their little computers — in their pockets."During the first six months of 2019, facility planning began, including community stakeholder meetings.&nbsp;"At the end of that six months, in the middle of last year, we transitioned into a build based on the information we gathered," Hines said.<a href="https://www.gouldevans.com/">The architects firm Gould Evans was chosen for the design work.</a>"They recently completed the Art and Design building on campus and they also have some good library experience," Hines said.The project went out to bid end of June and was recently accepted. Paul Wartenberger Construction submitted the lowest bid and won the contract."We are excited to work with them," Hines said. "We are really lucky to have such great local contractors and to receive multiple bids was a real gift for us."They also did the work during the 2004 HPL remodel.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230394739.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On the main floor, the entranceway will be changed significantly."For better or worse we are not a quiet as other libraries," Hines said."We really want to take that desk and spread it and deploy staff members throughout the entire library," he said. "That way we can help people in the stacks and in other places."The large desks in the middle of the adult and youth departments will also be split up.Having staff be more visible to help guide patrons will also be a feature of the new setup.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230343027.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The front entryway will remain an engaging space, but will become more of a community commons area, Hines said."This front area will be that community commons where people will come have a cup of coffee, it's going to be a bit more engaging and with that, we are going to have great lighting and great seating," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230260212.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Four large windows in the area will open the space and create an inviting ascetic for those in and out."Especially in the wintertime, when it gets dark at 4:30-5:00 p.m., driving by the library you will see those bright lights on it will be a place that is warm and inviting and busy and its a place that people are going to want to be," Hines said.&nbsp;Small meeting rooms and quiet areas will also be a feature of that space allowing for those that desire an area for uninterrupted work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230314875.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"The Schmidt Foundation is really what is making that possible," Hines said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bd4dffcb-cd5e-4fab-a809-416ae722eba7">The foundation committed $100,000 to that area.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230279900.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Technology services will be consolidated into one area, with a staff member dedicated to the space."We are going to call that the Nex-Tech Business Center, Hines said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9904caee-4154-4a05-b3da-554479047b25">They contributed $10,000</a>&nbsp;for space.On the children's level, the 1968 entryway window will be opened up creating new rooms and workspaces."We are going to create a family bathroom, that's updated," Hines said.A study area and nursing room will also be put in.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0220184e-758b-45e2-9a7d-09ac89b8ea2a">The Heartland Foundation awarded the library $5,000 for that portion of the project.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230369938.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"One of the most exciting things of the whole project is our new early literacy area," Hines said. "It was an immediate priority that we knew we need."<a href="https://hayslibrary.org/remodel/">For more information about the project visit the HPL website.</a>

🎙Big changes on the way for the Hays Public Library

After 52 years of service to the Hays community, Stan Dreiling’s James Motor Company has been acquired by
Robert Brogden. Robert Brogden, with over 40 years of automotive experience, currently owns Robert Brogden’s Olathe Buick
GMC, the No. 1 GM selling dealership in the state of Kansas. A grand opening celebration will be planned for fall.


Brogden is from Nicodemus, not far from Hays, and some may remember him from his days as top salesman for the
K-G Men’s Clothing Store at The Mall in Hays in the late ‘70s through early ‘80s. Robert’s wife, Kathy (Steiner), is a 1979 graduate of
Fort Hays State University. Hometown roots and values make the Brogden brand one that Kansas families trust. The goal is to
respect the busy lives of customers and provide them with a no-hassle, no-pressure experience.


Various charities and worthy causes have also benefited from Robert Brogden over the years. He and his family are longtime
supporters of the community and they are looking forward to continuing this legacy of dedicated involvement within Hays and
Ellis County.


The site of the new dealership has been James Motor Co., where Stan Dreiling became a manager in 1968, and then
owner in 1990. He served in Vietnam as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division and continues to support the veterans in the
community. 

“My biggest honor is being a member of the VFW Funeral Detail since 1972,” Dreiling says. “I have attended over
1,400 funerals to pay respects to the service of our veterans.”


He’s also been a member of the local Chamber of Commerce, Elks Lodge, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and
Knights of Columbus. Dreiling attributes the success of his dealership to the people, saying, “We’ve been blessed with a number
of customers and employees who have stayed with us and supported us over the years.”


The staff at the new store of Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac will be just as dedicated to making the buying or service
process convenient, transparent and affordable. Brian Schaffer, the executive manager, was born and raised in Kansas and
began his auto career in 1992 while in high school. His high standards of training and mentoring in all dealership operations and
departments will prove valuable in this new position.


Schaffer’s list of professional achievements is long and includes being a 6 time GM Mark of Excellence Award recipient and GM
Dealer of the Year. He and his wife Jenny have twin boys who are 12 and a son who is 19. They also have 3 dogs and a few cows. 

“I
grew up on a farm just outside of Liebenthal, Kansas, 15 miles south of Hays,” Schaffer says. “I look forward to continuing to build
the Brogden brand as a local dealership the community can trust and we’re ready to support our neighbors every way we can.”

About Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac 
Serving the Hays and Northwest Kansas areas with “America’s Upfront Pricing,” Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac offers 
new Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles, along with quality, low-mileage, pre-owned vehicles. The dealership also has a complete
service center, parts department, and auto body shop for total support and maintenance of a customer’s vehicle. Open six days a
week, they are located at 108 E 13th Street.

For more information, please email bschaffer@brogdenauto.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596660485332.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseAfter 52 years of service to the Hays community, Stan Dreiling’s James Motor Company has been acquired by
Robert Brogden. Robert Brogden, with over 40 years of automotive experience, currently owns Robert Brogden’s Olathe Buick
GMC, the No. 1 GM selling dealership in the state of Kansas. A grand opening celebration will be planned for fall.
Brogden is from Nicodemus, not far from Hays, and some may remember him from his days as top salesman for the
K-G Men’s Clothing Store at The Mall in Hays in the late ‘70s through early ‘80s. Robert’s wife, Kathy (Steiner), is a 1979 graduate of
Fort Hays State University. Hometown roots and values make the Brogden brand one that Kansas families trust. The goal is to
respect the busy lives of customers and provide them with a no-hassle, no-pressure experience.
Various charities and worthy causes have also benefited from Robert Brogden over the years. He and his family are longtime
supporters of the community and they are looking forward to continuing this legacy of dedicated involvement within Hays and
Ellis County.
The site of the new dealership has been James Motor Co., where Stan Dreiling became a manager in 1968, and then
owner in 1990. He served in Vietnam as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division and continues to support the veterans in the
community. “My biggest honor is being a member of the VFW Funeral Detail since 1972,” Dreiling says. “I have attended over
1,400 funerals to pay respects to the service of our veterans.”
He’s also been a member of the local Chamber of Commerce, Elks Lodge, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and
Knights of Columbus. Dreiling attributes the success of his dealership to the people, saying, “We’ve been blessed with a number
of customers and employees who have stayed with us and supported us over the years.”
The staff at the new store of Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac will be just as dedicated to making the buying or service
process convenient, transparent and affordable. Brian Schaffer, the executive manager, was born and raised in Kansas and
began his auto career in 1992 while in high school. His high standards of training and mentoring in all dealership operations and
departments will prove valuable in this new position.
Schaffer’s list of professional achievements is long and includes being a 6 time GM Mark of Excellence Award recipient and GM
Dealer of the Year. He and his wife Jenny have twin boys who are 12 and a son who is 19. They also have 3 dogs and a few cows. “I
grew up on a farm just outside of Liebenthal, Kansas, 15 miles south of Hays,” Schaffer says. “I look forward to continuing to build
the Brogden brand as a local dealership the community can trust and we’re ready to support our neighbors every way we can.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596660552137.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>About Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac 
Serving the Hays and Northwest Kansas areas with “America’s Upfront Pricing,” Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac offers 
new Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles, along with quality, low-mileage, pre-owned vehicles. The dealership also has a complete
service center, parts department, and auto body shop for total support and maintenance of a customer’s vehicle. Open six days a
week, they are located at 108 E 13th Street.
For more information, please email bschaffer@brogdenauto.com.— Submitted —

James Motor Co. becomes Robert Brogden Buick GMC Cadillac

ACCESS Public Transportation announced in a news release this week it will return to normal operations starting Aug. 12. 

Normal&nbsp; operational hours are from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. ACCESS phone lines will be open from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. seven days a week to book rides. You can book rides two weeks in advance and are encouraged to do so. Call (785) 628-1052 to book your ride.&nbsp;

"ACCESS Public Transportation requests all riders wear masks or face coverings when riding public transportation," the news release said. "We ask that all riders maintain the required six foot social distancing. ACCESS will be allowing only two riders at a time on the bus to allow for the 6-foot social distancing."

ACCESS will clean the buses as often as possible to help maintain the spreading of COVID-19 virus.

Safe Ride will remain closed at this time and until further notice.

For more information, contact ACCESS Transportation at (785) 628-1052.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584536781273.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ACCESS Public Transportation announced in a news release this week it will return to normal operations starting Aug. 12. Normal&nbsp; operational hours are from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. ACCESS phone lines will be open from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. seven days a week to book rides. You can book rides two weeks in advance and are encouraged to do so. Call (785) 628-1052 to book your ride.&nbsp;"ACCESS Public Transportation requests all riders wear masks or face coverings when riding public transportation," the news release said. "We ask that all riders maintain the required six foot social distancing. ACCESS will be allowing only two riders at a time on the bus to allow for the 6-foot social distancing."ACCESS will clean the buses as often as possible to help maintain the spreading of COVID-19 virus.Safe Ride will remain closed at this time and until further notice.For more information, contact ACCESS Transportation at (785) 628-1052.— DSNWK

ACCESS Public Transportation to return to normal hours of operation

Dr. Oluwaseun Akinbo, orthopedic surgeon at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Medical Center, was selected by the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA) to be an associate editor of the premier orthopedic publication, the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS).&nbsp;

The AOA partners with the JBJS to offer AOA’s Emerging Leaders an opportunity to serve as Associate Editors on the JBJS Associate Editor Panel. &nbsp;

The AOA's Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) delivers a continuum of learning for developing orthopaedic leaders. Members are among a highly select group of orthopaedists poised to impact the specialty now and in the future. Emerging Leaders garner essential skills and build a strong foundation for leadership, development and success.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596475085013.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedDr. Oluwaseun Akinbo, orthopedic surgeon at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Medical Center, was selected by the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA) to be an associate editor of the premier orthopedic publication, the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS).&nbsp;The AOA partners with the JBJS to offer AOA’s Emerging Leaders an opportunity to serve as Associate Editors on the JBJS Associate Editor Panel. &nbsp;The AOA's Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) delivers a continuum of learning for developing orthopaedic leaders. Members are among a highly select group of orthopaedists poised to impact the specialty now and in the future. Emerging Leaders garner essential skills and build a strong foundation for leadership, development and success.&nbsp;

HaysMed surgeon named associate editor of premier orthopedic publication 

By TIM CARPENTER &amp; NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/04/kansas-voters-pivot-to-advance-by-mail-voting-amid-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Six times the 
number of advance by-mail ballots have been returned to local election 
offices in Kansas compared to the 2016 and 2018 primary elections with 
the surge in popularity tied to competitive races and the pandemic.

Secretary of State Scott 
Schwab, who serves as the state’s top elections officer, said 159,000 
voters had submitted advance ballots by mail. That compared to 26,917 
two years ago in the primary and 26,795 four years ago in the summer 
election. There has been a narrow partisan split in the returns: 
Democrats, 81,208; Republicans, 77,372; Libertarian, nine.

“Despite the ongoing 
pandemic, we are pleased with the number of Kansas voters who have 
exercised their right to vote through advance by mail ballots and 
advance in-person voting,” Schwab said. “We encourage those who have not
 voted to do so on Tuesday.”

As of Friday, 314,788 
advance mail-in ballots had been sent to Kansans. The interest among 
potential voters vastly exceeded request totals from the previous two 
primary elections, with 51,211 forwarded in the same period in 2018 and 
53,387 in 2016.

Schwab predicted 28 
percent of 1.8 million registered Kansas voters would take part in the 
primary. In 2018, 27 percent or 487,000 voted in the primary. His 
prediction was based on historical turnout data, advance voting figures,
 registered voters in Kansas and competitive races capable of driving 
turnout. The secretary of state’s office said the pandemic created 
unique conditions not present in prior elections.

Due to enhanced COVID-19 
safety precautions and historically high advance voting numbers, 
election returns may be delayed Tuesday evening of the primary election.
 Voters have been asked to resolve intense GOP primary elections for 
U.S. Senate and three of four U.S. House districts, in addition to 
hundreds of statehouse and local election contests.

Despite
 a record number of mail-in ballot requests, Johnson County election 
commissioner Connie Schmidt said pre-emptive measures by the election 
office has given staff time to process the votes. An application for a mail-in ballot was sent to every voter in that county for the first time, Schmidt said.

“It
 was sort of our way of taking control of the potential of having many 
people wanting to vote by mail,” she said. “Those started coming back to
 our office around the first of June so we’ve had plenty of time 
built-in to process the number of ballots.”

Johnson
 County distributed 106,000 ballots and received about 70,000 back. 
State law permits county election officials to scan the ballots in 
advance, but not tabulate those results until polling stations close at 7
 p.m. Tuesday.

In Finney County, election
 officer Dori Munyan said 282 of the 457 mail-in ballots sent to 
potential voters were put through counters. In the 2016 primary election, Munyan said, Finney County only received 100 mail-in ballots. In 2018, they received 84.

Jamie
 Doss, Saline county clerk, said they’ve been having an advanced-mail 
review board come in daily to process the ballots as they came. The 
county mailed 4,891 advanced ballots to constituents and received 3,328 
in return, which was three times the normal volume.

“We
 brought in some extra poll workers to help with the process of getting 
the mail out and receiving it back,” Doss said. “Hopefully by 7 p.m. or 
shortly after we will have a count on our advanced ballots.”

Wyandotte
 County election commissioner Bruce Newby didn’t expect problems 
processing the flood of primary votes. Typically, the county receives 
around 5,000 mail-in ballot requests, but forwarded more than 11,600 to 
voters for the August election. On Monday, he said 7,700 had been 
returned. Work on other mail-in votes for school bonds, for example, 
have given his staff a comfort level with advanced voting.

“Voting
 by mail is a piece of cake for us,” Newby said. “It would take an 
astronomical number of votes for us to start having any problems.”

In Douglas County, 
election commissioner Jamie Shew said nearly 12,000 of the 21,000 
advanced ballots had been returned. The record total of advance mail 
voting was in November 2018 with about 13,000 ballots, and Shew expected
 to surpass that figure due to keen interest in a handful of contested 
elections and apprehension about entering polling stations during the 
pandemic.

“This is an election where nothing is as expected,” he said.

Advance by mail ballots 
must be postmarked on or before the date of the election and received in
 the local election office by 5:00 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7. After the 
initial counts on Tuesday, election officials will prepare revised 
totals Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Schwab said Kansans 
interested in advance voting could do so in person until noon Monday. As
 of Friday, he said, 30,762 people had taken advantage of that option. 
More than two-thirds of those voters were Republicans. In 2018, a 
presidential election year, 40,406 advance in-person ballots were cast. 
The figure for the 2016 primary election was 28,452.

“Our priority has been, 
and will continue to be, to maintain balance in protecting the health 
and safety of Kansas voters and election workers while also ensuring the
 security of Kansas elections. If you feel safe going to the grocery 
store, you should feel safe to vote,” Schwab said.

In light of COVID-19, he said Kansas voters Tuesday should follow safety protocols recommended by health professionals.

He said voters should 
expect increased distance between voting booths, greater distance in 
interactions with election workers and frequent sanitizing of election 
equipment. No voter will be turned away for wearing, or not wearing, a 
mask, he said.

Although state law 
requires Kansas voters to show photo identification when casting a vote 
in-person, Executive Order 20-55 will allow voters to use driver’s 
licenses or identification cards that expired between March 12, 2020, 
and Sept. 15, 2020, in the primary and general election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596642607358.jpeg" alt="Kansas election offices have been flooded with advance voting ballots as COVID-19 and competitive races prompted people to express themselves in a safely before Election Day on Tuesday. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas election offices have been flooded with advance voting ballots as COVID-19 and competitive races prompted people to express themselves in a safely before Election Day on Tuesday. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER &amp; NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/04/kansas-voters-pivot-to-advance-by-mail-voting-amid-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Six times the 
number of advance by-mail ballots have been returned to local election 
offices in Kansas compared to the 2016 and 2018 primary elections with 
the surge in popularity tied to competitive races and the pandemic.Secretary of State Scott 
Schwab, who serves as the state’s top elections officer, said 159,000 
voters had submitted advance ballots by mail. That compared to 26,917 
two years ago in the primary and 26,795 four years ago in the summer 
election. There has been a narrow partisan split in the returns: 
Democrats, 81,208; Republicans, 77,372; Libertarian, nine.“Despite the ongoing 
pandemic, we are pleased with the number of Kansas voters who have 
exercised their right to vote through advance by mail ballots and 
advance in-person voting,” Schwab said. “We encourage those who have not
 voted to do so on Tuesday.”As of Friday, 314,788 
advance mail-in ballots had been sent to Kansans. The interest among 
potential voters vastly exceeded request totals from the previous two 
primary elections, with 51,211 forwarded in the same period in 2018 and 
53,387 in 2016.Schwab predicted 28 
percent of 1.8 million registered Kansas voters would take part in the 
primary. In 2018, 27 percent or 487,000 voted in the primary. His 
prediction was based on historical turnout data, advance voting figures,
 registered voters in Kansas and competitive races capable of driving 
turnout. The secretary of state’s office said the pandemic created 
unique conditions not present in prior elections.Due to enhanced COVID-19 
safety precautions and historically high advance voting numbers, 
election returns may be delayed Tuesday evening of the primary election.
 Voters have been asked to resolve intense GOP primary elections for 
U.S. Senate and three of four U.S. House districts, in addition to 
hundreds of statehouse and local election contests.<h2>The county counting</h2>Despite
 a record number of mail-in ballot requests, Johnson County election 
commissioner Connie Schmidt said pre-emptive measures by the election 
office has given staff time to process the votes. An application for a mail-in ballot was sent to every voter in that county for the first time, Schmidt said.“It
 was sort of our way of taking control of the potential of having many 
people wanting to vote by mail,” she said. “Those started coming back to
 our office around the first of June so we’ve had plenty of time 
built-in to process the number of ballots.”Johnson
 County distributed 106,000 ballots and received about 70,000 back. 
State law permits county election officials to scan the ballots in 
advance, but not tabulate those results until polling stations close at 7
 p.m. Tuesday.In Finney County, election
 officer Dori Munyan said 282 of the 457 mail-in ballots sent to 
potential voters were put through counters. In the 2016 primary election, Munyan said, Finney County only received 100 mail-in ballots. In 2018, they received 84.Jamie
 Doss, Saline county clerk, said they’ve been having an advanced-mail 
review board come in daily to process the ballots as they came. The 
county mailed 4,891 advanced ballots to constituents and received 3,328 
in return, which was three times the normal volume.“We
 brought in some extra poll workers to help with the process of getting 
the mail out and receiving it back,” Doss said. “Hopefully by 7 p.m. or 
shortly after we will have a count on our advanced ballots.”Wyandotte
 County election commissioner Bruce Newby didn’t expect problems 
processing the flood of primary votes. Typically, the county receives 
around 5,000 mail-in ballot requests, but forwarded more than 11,600 to 
voters for the August election. On Monday, he said 7,700 had been 
returned. Work on other mail-in votes for school bonds, for example, 
have given his staff a comfort level with advanced voting.“Voting
 by mail is a piece of cake for us,” Newby said. “It would take an 
astronomical number of votes for us to start having any problems.”In Douglas County, 
election commissioner Jamie Shew said nearly 12,000 of the 21,000 
advanced ballots had been returned. The record total of advance mail 
voting was in November 2018 with about 13,000 ballots, and Shew expected
 to surpass that figure due to keen interest in a handful of contested 
elections and apprehension about entering polling stations during the 
pandemic.“This is an election where nothing is as expected,” he said.Advance by mail ballots 
must be postmarked on or before the date of the election and received in
 the local election office by 5:00 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7. After the 
initial counts on Tuesday, election officials will prepare revised 
totals Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.<h2>In-person advance</h2>Schwab said Kansans 
interested in advance voting could do so in person until noon Monday. As
 of Friday, he said, 30,762 people had taken advantage of that option. 
More than two-thirds of those voters were Republicans. In 2018, a 
presidential election year, 40,406 advance in-person ballots were cast. 
The figure for the 2016 primary election was 28,452.“Our priority has been, 
and will continue to be, to maintain balance in protecting the health 
and safety of Kansas voters and election workers while also ensuring the
 security of Kansas elections. If you feel safe going to the grocery 
store, you should feel safe to vote,” Schwab said.In light of COVID-19, he said Kansas voters Tuesday should follow safety protocols recommended by health professionals.He said voters should 
expect increased distance between voting booths, greater distance in 
interactions with election workers and frequent sanitizing of election 
equipment. No voter will be turned away for wearing, or not wearing, a 
mask, he said.Although state law 
requires Kansas voters to show photo identification when casting a vote 
in-person, Executive Order 20-55 will allow voters to use driver’s 
licenses or identification cards that expired between March 12, 2020, 
and Sept. 15, 2020, in the primary and general election.

Kan. voters pivot to advance by-mail voting amid COVID-19

Graduating classes of 2020 across the country long will be remembered for the challenges they faced during the last several weeks before graduation.&nbsp; But it’s the success of one group of new alumni at Fort Hays State University that future graduates will look to emulate for years to come.&nbsp; The inaugural graduating class from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctorate of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) online program set the bar high when all 12 passed the national certification board examination on the first try.&nbsp; Now, those advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are working in medical facilities all across the state in a wide variety of healthcare services: family practice, public health, cardiology, rheumatology and psychiatric.&nbsp; Contributing to that perfect pass rate were several measures implemented by the nursing department and its staff before the program even started.&nbsp; Nursing faculty wrote grants from two different organizations that helped fund equipment and extra classes – some geared specifically toward tips for passing the certification exam.&nbsp; In addition, two Fort Hays State BSN to DNP students were selected for fellowships from the KU School of Nursing where DNP graduates work in a residency-type program, giving them invaluable experience their first year after graduation.&nbsp; “The program is designed for the APRN to continue to learn from instructors, preceptors and specialists,” said Terry Siek, vice president of patient care and chief nursing officer at The University of Kansas Health System-HaysMed Campus. “We have been working on transition to practice for our APRNs and hope this will be the model that we can follow in the future.”&nbsp; Heather Holaday from Garfield received one of the KU fellowships and is working at the Pawnee Valley Medical Associates in Larned.&nbsp; “It’s a great transition piece,” Holaday said. “I’ll have the opportunity to go into a practice and learn as I go. I get a year of guidance from a mentor who I can rely on to ask questions.”&nbsp; The clinic pays for 60 percent of the graduate’s salary, while the fellowship makes up for the remaining 40 percent.&nbsp; One of the grants written by FHSU came from the Hansen Foundation. Graduates set to work in any of the 26 counties served by the foundation could apply for a $25,000 scholarship to help offset college expenses.&nbsp; The largest grant came from a Health Resources and Service Administration. That federal grant provides the BSN to DNP program with nearly $700,000 over a four-year span. Half of that goes to stipends to graduates who will work in rural and underserved areas for at least two years. The other half helps with the purchase of new equipment, funding new faculty positions to assist in simulations and clinical site placement, and to enhance course work.&nbsp; Adding review courses for the national certification to part of the curriculum was key to the graduates’ success, said Mary Jo Gubitoso, assistant professor of nursing.&nbsp; She said the courses helped them organize the large volume of material and gave them test-taking skills, and provided practice exams before taking the national certification.&nbsp; “I thought those review courses were phenomenal,” Holaday said. “They were difficult, but I felt so prepared for my certification exam. I knew I had the information to pass.”&nbsp; Jenny Manry, chair of FHSU’s nursing department, attributes the success of the program to her entire team, especially faculty.&nbsp; “Our faculty are some of the best nurse practitioners in Western Kansas,” she said. “They each practice part-time in a clinical setting to stay current in evidence-based practice. These sites include working in the emergency room, cardiology, family practice, and neonatology. They care about students and often burn the midnight oil to make sure that our program is the best.”&nbsp; Information about the BSN to DNP program and all nursing program at Fort Hays State can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/nursing">www.fhsu.edu/nursing</a>.&nbsp; Following is a list of the first graduating class of the BSN to DNP program, their hometowns and their place of employment:&nbsp; • Summer Anthony, Salina, KU School of Nursing fellowship, First Care Clinic, Hays.&nbsp; • Alicia Arias, Hays, First Care Clinic, Hays.&nbsp; • Paula Bitter, Holyrood, Russell County Health Dept.&nbsp; • Violet Gomes, Basehor, Leavenworth County Health Dept.&nbsp; • Heather Holaday, Garfield, KU School of Nursing fellowship, Pawnee Valley Medical Associates, Larned.&nbsp; • Vicki James-Bortzer, Jetmore, Pratt Regional Family Practice, Dodge City.&nbsp; • Jennifer Payne, Garden City, Heart Center at St. Catherine Hospital, Garden City.&nbsp; • Cathryn Preisner, Hays, Hays Family Medicine.&nbsp; • Debra Shinn, Ellis, Rheumatology Clinic, Russell Regional Hospital.&nbsp; • Alicia Utley, Hutchinson, seeking employment in family healthcare.&nbsp; • Jenesa Osborn, Valley Center, Cardiovascular Care, Wichita.&nbsp; • Erica Powell, Ellinwood, Center for Counseling, Great Bend.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596554047697.jpeg" alt="Holoday" />
 <figcaption>Holoday</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsGraduating classes of 2020 across the country long will be remembered for the challenges they faced during the last several weeks before graduation.&nbsp; But it’s the success of one group of new alumni at Fort Hays State University that future graduates will look to emulate for years to come.&nbsp; The inaugural graduating class from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctorate of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) online program set the bar high when all 12 passed the national certification board examination on the first try.&nbsp; Now, those advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are working in medical facilities all across the state in a wide variety of healthcare services: family practice, public health, cardiology, rheumatology and psychiatric.&nbsp; Contributing to that perfect pass rate were several measures implemented by the nursing department and its staff before the program even started.&nbsp; Nursing faculty wrote grants from two different organizations that helped fund equipment and extra classes – some geared specifically toward tips for passing the certification exam.&nbsp; In addition, two Fort Hays State BSN to DNP students were selected for fellowships from the KU School of Nursing where DNP graduates work in a residency-type program, giving them invaluable experience their first year after graduation.&nbsp; “The program is designed for the APRN to continue to learn from instructors, preceptors and specialists,” said Terry Siek, vice president of patient care and chief nursing officer at The University of Kansas Health System-HaysMed Campus. “We have been working on transition to practice for our APRNs and hope this will be the model that we can follow in the future.”&nbsp; Heather Holaday from Garfield received one of the KU fellowships and is working at the Pawnee Valley Medical Associates in Larned.&nbsp; “It’s a great transition piece,” Holaday said. “I’ll have the opportunity to go into a practice and learn as I go. I get a year of guidance from a mentor who I can rely on to ask questions.”&nbsp; The clinic pays for 60 percent of the graduate’s salary, while the fellowship makes up for the remaining 40 percent.&nbsp; One of the grants written by FHSU came from the Hansen Foundation. Graduates set to work in any of the 26 counties served by the foundation could apply for a $25,000 scholarship to help offset college expenses.&nbsp; The largest grant came from a Health Resources and Service Administration. That federal grant provides the BSN to DNP program with nearly $700,000 over a four-year span. Half of that goes to stipends to graduates who will work in rural and underserved areas for at least two years. The other half helps with the purchase of new equipment, funding new faculty positions to assist in simulations and clinical site placement, and to enhance course work.&nbsp; Adding review courses for the national certification to part of the curriculum was key to the graduates’ success, said Mary Jo Gubitoso, assistant professor of nursing.&nbsp; She said the courses helped them organize the large volume of material and gave them test-taking skills, and provided practice exams before taking the national certification.&nbsp; “I thought those review courses were phenomenal,” Holaday said. “They were difficult, but I felt so prepared for my certification exam. I knew I had the information to pass.”&nbsp; Jenny Manry, chair of FHSU’s nursing department, attributes the success of the program to her entire team, especially faculty.&nbsp; “Our faculty are some of the best nurse practitioners in Western Kansas,” she said. “They each practice part-time in a clinical setting to stay current in evidence-based practice. These sites include working in the emergency room, cardiology, family practice, and neonatology. They care about students and often burn the midnight oil to make sure that our program is the best.”&nbsp; Information about the BSN to DNP program and all nursing program at Fort Hays State can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/nursing">www.fhsu.edu/nursing</a>.&nbsp; Following is a list of the first graduating class of the BSN to DNP program, their hometowns and their place of employment:&nbsp; • Summer Anthony, Salina, KU School of Nursing fellowship, First Care Clinic, Hays.&nbsp; • Alicia Arias, Hays, First Care Clinic, Hays.&nbsp; • Paula Bitter, Holyrood, Russell County Health Dept.&nbsp; • Violet Gomes, Basehor, Leavenworth County Health Dept.&nbsp; • Heather Holaday, Garfield, KU School of Nursing fellowship, Pawnee Valley Medical Associates, Larned.&nbsp; • Vicki James-Bortzer, Jetmore, Pratt Regional Family Practice, Dodge City.&nbsp; • Jennifer Payne, Garden City, Heart Center at St. Catherine Hospital, Garden City.&nbsp; • Cathryn Preisner, Hays, Hays Family Medicine.&nbsp; • Debra Shinn, Ellis, Rheumatology Clinic, Russell Regional Hospital.&nbsp; • Alicia Utley, Hutchinson, seeking employment in family healthcare.&nbsp; • Jenesa Osborn, Valley Center, Cardiovascular Care, Wichita.&nbsp; • Erica Powell, Ellinwood, Center for Counseling, Great Bend.&nbsp;

FHSU’s inaugural BSN to DNP graduating class sets a high standard 

Three-day weather outlook

Boy howdy, just when you think you’ve heard it all, Joey Chestnut comes along and eats more hot dogs in 10 minutes than I’ll eat in the next 10 years, someone wanting to be president of our great nation really thinks college can be free and startup companies here in America are actually growing meat in labs. Here in cattle country “them’s fighten’ words,” but more stories about companies actually producing lab-grown meat are surfacing all the time.

A recent online news article began “Startups make meat that avoids slaughter.” Memphis Meats is headquartered in California, (no surprise there) and is slowly perfecting the craft of actually growing meat in stem cell broth extracted from cow fetuses, calling it “cell-based meat;” test-tube-to-table so to speak. A person involved with the company told the interviewer “People want meat; they don’t want slaughter, so we make slaughter-free meat.” (Also remember that someone also said, “We ourselves are responsible for the snow storm that produced all these snowflakes.”) Now I have to admit, burying myself elbow-deep in innards to field dress a deer is not the highlight of my hunt, and I never particularly looked forward to sending a steer to the processing plant. But with the first bite of grilled venison tenderloin or juicy T-bone steak, any and all twinges of apprehension dissolve like my deodorant on a Kansas August afternoon.&nbsp;

So, I’m trying to imagine what this will look like. Maybe I’ll walk into the lobby of a storefront that looks for all-the-world like an out-of-business dry cleaners and announce to the clerk “Hi, I’m here to pick up the 3 pounds of Kansas City strip I ordered 17 years ago.”&nbsp; The clerk will press a button, the racks that used to hold the dry-cleaned clothing will revolve until out pop my steaks, hanging from the rack like a couple old welding gloves. Or maybe I’ll have to don a hospital gown and hairnet and stroll through what looks like the maternity ward at a hospital, where row-after-row of large covered Petri dishes contain growing steaks and chops, all labeled with “birth dates” going back 15 years. I’ll direct the “lab doctor’s” attention to a couple robust looking pork chops and a giant sirloin and head home with my “slaughter-free” meat. &nbsp;

I get it that God has programmed genetic information into seeds telling them what they will become; how else do you explain that a soybean seed grows another soybean plant and not an oak tree, etc. But how are stem cells from a cow fetus used to grow different cuts of meat, and chicken and fish as well for that matter?&nbsp; Seems like the rib eye I order could just as easily grow into rocky mountain oysters.&nbsp;

And since I don’t ever foresee a practical way to collect stem cells or anything else for that matter from wild game animals, does that mean someone will eventually try to grow my venison back strap from cow fetus stem cells? Look, I get that some folks want to eat plant-based meat, but God never meant for our meat to be grown in a lab. Even given the wonky, topsy-turvey thinking of parts of our society today, I don’t expect this lab-grown meat thing to ever catch on; but that’s what I once said about texting too…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com." />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>Boy howdy, just when you think you’ve heard it all, Joey Chestnut comes along and eats more hot dogs in 10 minutes than I’ll eat in the next 10 years, someone wanting to be president of our great nation really thinks college can be free and startup companies here in America are actually growing meat in labs. Here in cattle country “them’s fighten’ words,” but more stories about companies actually producing lab-grown meat are surfacing all the time.A recent online news article began “Startups make meat that avoids slaughter.” Memphis Meats is headquartered in California, (no surprise there) and is slowly perfecting the craft of actually growing meat in stem cell broth extracted from cow fetuses, calling it “cell-based meat;” test-tube-to-table so to speak. A person involved with the company told the interviewer “People want meat; they don’t want slaughter, so we make slaughter-free meat.” (Also remember that someone also said, “We ourselves are responsible for the snow storm that produced all these snowflakes.”) Now I have to admit, burying myself elbow-deep in innards to field dress a deer is not the highlight of my hunt, and I never particularly looked forward to sending a steer to the processing plant. But with the first bite of grilled venison tenderloin or juicy T-bone steak, any and all twinges of apprehension dissolve like my deodorant on a Kansas August afternoon.&nbsp;So, I’m trying to imagine what this will look like. Maybe I’ll walk into the lobby of a storefront that looks for all-the-world like an out-of-business dry cleaners and announce to the clerk “Hi, I’m here to pick up the 3 pounds of Kansas City strip I ordered 17 years ago.”&nbsp; The clerk will press a button, the racks that used to hold the dry-cleaned clothing will revolve until out pop my steaks, hanging from the rack like a couple old welding gloves. Or maybe I’ll have to don a hospital gown and hairnet and stroll through what looks like the maternity ward at a hospital, where row-after-row of large covered Petri dishes contain growing steaks and chops, all labeled with “birth dates” going back 15 years. I’ll direct the “lab doctor’s” attention to a couple robust looking pork chops and a giant sirloin and head home with my “slaughter-free” meat. &nbsp;I get it that God has programmed genetic information into seeds telling them what they will become; how else do you explain that a soybean seed grows another soybean plant and not an oak tree, etc. But how are stem cells from a cow fetus used to grow different cuts of meat, and chicken and fish as well for that matter?&nbsp; Seems like the rib eye I order could just as easily grow into rocky mountain oysters.&nbsp;And since I don’t ever foresee a practical way to collect stem cells or anything else for that matter from wild game animals, does that mean someone will eventually try to grow my venison back strap from cow fetus stem cells? Look, I get that some folks want to eat plant-based meat, but God never meant for our meat to be grown in a lab. Even given the wonky, topsy-turvey thinking of parts of our society today, I don’t expect this lab-grown meat thing to ever catch on; but that’s what I once said about texting too…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Makin’ bacon

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Republican primary featured several contested races and by the end of voting Tuesday two incumbents were defeated.

All of Tuesday’s election results are unofficial until approved by the Ellis County Commission during the official election canvass. That meeting is scheduled for Aug. 13 at 5 p.m. at the Administrative Center.

In the race for Ellis County treasurer incumbent Lisa Schlegel was defeated by challenger Vernon Ruder Jr. Ruder will face Democrat Julie Mercer in the November general election.

Ruder edged Schlegel 38.26% to 31.89%.&nbsp;

Ruder received 1,856 votes while Schlegel amassed 1,547 votes.

Sherry Dryden finished third with 29.85% of the vote — 1,448 votes.

In the race for Ellis County Commission Second District, Neal Younger defeated incumbent Dustin Roths and challenger Kerry McCue.

Younger received 639 votes to Roths 547 and edged him 40.16% to 34.38%. McCue received 405 votes for 25.46%.

Younger is expected to run unopposed in the November election, unless a challenger mounts a write-in campaign.

In the Republican race for Ellis County Attorney. Robert Anderson Jr. defeated Chris Lyon 64.94 to 35.06%. Anderson collected 2,958 votes to Lyon’s 1,597.

No Democratic candidate filed for the race, so Anderson will run unopposed.&nbsp;

With all 70 precincts reporting, another incumbent&nbsp;was defeated in the race for 23rd Judicial District judge. Former Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees was the winner over incumbent Blake Bittel, 45 percent to 39 percent. Kerry Wasinger had 16 percent of the vote.&nbsp;The 23rd Judicial District is comprised of Ellis, Gove, Rooks and Trego counties.

Incumbent Magistrate Judge of the 23rd Judicial District, Doug Bigge, Rooks County, was re-elected in a defeat of Nolan Weiser, 60 percent to 40 percent.&nbsp;

You can find a complete list of Tuesday’s election results by clicking <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4001/2020-Primary-Unofficial-Results">HERE</a>.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Republican primary featured several contested races and by the end of voting Tuesday two incumbents were defeated.All of Tuesday’s election results are unofficial until approved by the Ellis County Commission during the official election canvass. That meeting is scheduled for Aug. 13 at 5 p.m. at the Administrative Center.In the race for Ellis County treasurer incumbent Lisa Schlegel was defeated by challenger Vernon Ruder Jr. Ruder will face Democrat Julie Mercer in the November general election.Ruder edged Schlegel 38.26% to 31.89%.&nbsp;Ruder received 1,856 votes while Schlegel amassed 1,547 votes.Sherry Dryden finished third with 29.85% of the vote — 1,448 votes.In the race for Ellis County Commission Second District, Neal Younger defeated incumbent Dustin Roths and challenger Kerry McCue.Younger received 639 votes to Roths 547 and edged him 40.16% to 34.38%. McCue received 405 votes for 25.46%.Younger is expected to run unopposed in the November election, unless a challenger mounts a write-in campaign.In the Republican race for Ellis County Attorney. Robert Anderson Jr. defeated Chris Lyon 64.94 to 35.06%. Anderson collected 2,958 votes to Lyon’s 1,597.No Democratic candidate filed for the race, so Anderson will run unopposed.&nbsp;With all 70 precincts reporting, another incumbent&nbsp;was defeated in the race for 23rd Judicial District judge. Former Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees was the winner over incumbent Blake Bittel, 45 percent to 39 percent. Kerry Wasinger had 16 percent of the vote.&nbsp;The 23rd Judicial District is comprised of Ellis, Gove, Rooks and Trego counties.Incumbent Magistrate Judge of the 23rd Judicial District, Doug Bigge, Rooks County, was re-elected in a defeat of Nolan Weiser, 60 percent to 40 percent.&nbsp;You can find a complete list of Tuesday’s election results by clicking <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4001/2020-Primary-Unofficial-Results">HERE</a>.