With portions of Fort Hays State University’s Rarick Hall undergoing renovation this year, the Tiger Tots Preschool Center – whose home is on the first floor of Rarick – found a new space for the 2020-21 school year.&nbsp; After months of preparing a classroom in the Hadley Center in downtown Hays, Tiger Tots’ teachers are excited to celebrate with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6. For this school year, the facility will be called FHSU’s Tiger Tots Preschool Center-Hadley campus.&nbsp; The ribbon cutting, sponsored by the Hays Chamber of Commerce, will take place in the Hadley courtyard with entry on the north side of the building at 220 E. Eighth.&nbsp; The public is invited to attend and is asked to follow FHSU’S event-related COVID-19 policies and procedures, which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/covid-19-response/visitors">www.fhsu.edu/covid-19-response/visitors</a>.&nbsp;Those who attend are asked to wear a mask and maintain a minimum of a 6-foot distance from others.&nbsp; The ribbon cutting will be streamed live from the Hays Chamber of Commerce Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/HaysAreaChamber">www.facebook.com/HaysAreaChamber</a>.&nbsp; A community partnership celebration for the preschool center at Hadley, just a few blocks east of campus, is being planned for later in the year to showcase its large, spacious classroom. The Tiger Tots center will return to campus for the 2021-22 school year, following the completion of Rarick’s first-floor renovation.&nbsp; Tiger Tots is a combination preschool/child care facility for children of FHSU and NCK Tech students and children of FHSU faculty and staff. Children ages 30 months to 5 years are eligible to attend. More information about Tiger Tots can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/tigertots">www.fhsu.edu/tigertots</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596486432428.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsWith portions of Fort Hays State University’s Rarick Hall undergoing renovation this year, the Tiger Tots Preschool Center – whose home is on the first floor of Rarick – found a new space for the 2020-21 school year.&nbsp; After months of preparing a classroom in the Hadley Center in downtown Hays, Tiger Tots’ teachers are excited to celebrate with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6. For this school year, the facility will be called FHSU’s Tiger Tots Preschool Center-Hadley campus.&nbsp; The ribbon cutting, sponsored by the Hays Chamber of Commerce, will take place in the Hadley courtyard with entry on the north side of the building at 220 E. Eighth.&nbsp; The public is invited to attend and is asked to follow FHSU’S event-related COVID-19 policies and procedures, which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/covid-19-response/visitors">www.fhsu.edu/covid-19-response/visitors</a>.&nbsp;Those who attend are asked to wear a mask and maintain a minimum of a 6-foot distance from others.&nbsp; The ribbon cutting will be streamed live from the Hays Chamber of Commerce Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/HaysAreaChamber">www.facebook.com/HaysAreaChamber</a>.&nbsp; A community partnership celebration for the preschool center at Hadley, just a few blocks east of campus, is being planned for later in the year to showcase its large, spacious classroom. The Tiger Tots center will return to campus for the 2021-22 school year, following the completion of Rarick’s first-floor renovation.&nbsp; Tiger Tots is a combination preschool/child care facility for children of FHSU and NCK Tech students and children of FHSU faculty and staff. Children ages 30 months to 5 years are eligible to attend. More information about Tiger Tots can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/tigertots">www.fhsu.edu/tigertots</a>.&nbsp;

FHSU’s Tiger Tots excited to show off new space

Dr. Edgardo Olvera and Rachel Johnson, APRN, FNP-C are new providers at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System.&nbsp; They join Dr(s). Michael Albrecht, Patrick Atkinson, Kayla Gray, Erin Hemphill, Pramod Janga, Parul Singh and APRN Anissa Sonntag, all part of the hospitalist team at HaysMed.

Hospitalists and their team specialize in the care of patients while they are in the hospital.&nbsp; Everything from coordinating care, organizing communication with clinical team members and answering questions or concerns, hospitalists are available most of the day for patients and their families.

Dr. Olvera completed medical school at Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Facultad de Medicine, Mexico.&nbsp; He did a residency in internal medicine at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center/Weill Cornell Medical College.

Johnson received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Baker University School of Nursing and a Master of Science in nursing, APRN, Family Nurse Practitioner at Washburn University, both in Topeka, Kansas.

For more information on hospitalist care, go to haysmed.com/hospitalists

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596478591180.jpeg" alt="Colvera" />
 <figcaption>Colvera</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedDr. Edgardo Olvera and Rachel Johnson, APRN, FNP-C are new providers at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System.&nbsp; They join Dr(s). Michael Albrecht, Patrick Atkinson, Kayla Gray, Erin Hemphill, Pramod Janga, Parul Singh and APRN Anissa Sonntag, all part of the hospitalist team at HaysMed.Hospitalists and their team specialize in the care of patients while they are in the hospital.&nbsp; Everything from coordinating care, organizing communication with clinical team members and answering questions or concerns, hospitalists are available most of the day for patients and their families.Dr. Olvera completed medical school at Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Facultad de Medicine, Mexico.&nbsp; He did a residency in internal medicine at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center/Weill Cornell Medical College.Johnson received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Baker University School of Nursing and a Master of Science in nursing, APRN, Family Nurse Practitioner at Washburn University, both in Topeka, Kansas.For more information on hospitalist care, go to haysmed.com/hospitalists<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596478645557.jpeg" alt="Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>

HaysMed welcomes new members to hospitalist team

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

Our family’s summer vacation plans changed three times over the course of the past few months. Initially my wife and I planned on taking our college senior daughter on a grand excursion to Glacier National Park, then hopping the northern border to sightsee in Calgary, Banff and Jasper.

We scratched that idea well before Canada told U.S. citizens to take off, eh. We started scouting campsites in southern Utah, where five National Parks dot the landscape. Unfortunately, as the time came to reserve our campsites, we saw Covid-19 cases growing in Utah and here at home.

Retreating yet again, we looked within the borders of the Sunflower State. While we don’t have any glaciers, nothing close to the Canadian Rockies or the cool dry desert nights, there’s still some cool things to see in Kansas. We settled on a day trip to see Castle Rock, Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park.

I figured this would be an easy, hassle free trip to the northwest corner of our great state. No need to do extensive research on where to stay or look up things to do. We had a course and generally knew the area. I had a lunch recommendation from our colleague.

We loaded into my wife’s car a little after 8 a.m. and headed west. We initially planned on having lunch first then getting to the sightseeing. Instead, the sign for Castle Rock beckoned from Interstate 70 and we decided eating could wait. This was the first mistake, but the second would soon become more apparent.

Generally, the best way to spot a tourist is they either have way too much gear or not enough. We soon found ourselves in the latter category when we turned off a perfectly suitable gravel road to something giving minimum maintenance roads a bad name.

The same process that eroded everything but Castle Rock and the nearby badlands is still in progress, and that includes the loop around the attraction. It’s compounded by vehicle traffic from looky-loos. For the better part of a mile we held our breath as we navigated over ruts more than a foot deep in spots. Again, we were traversing this in a car capable of getting high-centered on a speedbump.

While our vehicle was unsuited to the local conditions, we managed to avoid getting stuck in a chasm, powered up a steep incline as the tires shot gravel behind us and then we took a wrong turn. The “road” narrowed in on us as it traced the side of a hill so the driver’s side was lower than the passenger side. Then, 15 yards from flat, smooth roadbed we came to a small gorge.

My daughter is old enough she didn’t learn any new words during this adventure, but it’s safe to say the plethora of profanity built to a crescendo at this point in our journey. After surveying the gully cutting across our path, I shouted to my wife and daughter we needed to dig to level the road.

We started using a jack handle to scrap dirt into the crater, and after about 30 minutes of “digging,” another group came along on the “good” road, stopped and offered their help. A half hour of poking at the dirt with a metal rod had dulled any semblance of embarrassment at our self-inflected predicament. We gladly accepted.

Two of the men in the group grabbed a second jack handle from one of their vehicles and began flinging dirt. Within 10 minutes, we’d leveled the ground just enough to cautiously drive out to safe ground.

We thanked our helpers and headed back to the Interstate to continue on our journey, which didn’t involve any other hiccups. We took in the badlands at Little Jerusalem with a thunderstorm in the background. At Monument Rocks, we dutifully posed for photos in a keyhole between two spires and then began our trek home, only stopping for dinner and to see the Cathedral on the Plains in Victoria.

While the trip wasn’t jumping from a bridge into a river fed by glacial melt, or hiking through Zion National Park, it did remind me of the beauty and wonder within our state’s borders. Kansas is also a place where complete strangers will take the time to help, even if it means piling dirt with a jack handle. Still, if I had to do it again, I’d take a different vehicle and toss in a shovel. Just in case.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauOur family’s summer vacation plans changed three times over the course of the past few months. Initially my wife and I planned on taking our college senior daughter on a grand excursion to Glacier National Park, then hopping the northern border to sightsee in Calgary, Banff and Jasper.We scratched that idea well before Canada told U.S. citizens to take off, eh. We started scouting campsites in southern Utah, where five National Parks dot the landscape. Unfortunately, as the time came to reserve our campsites, we saw Covid-19 cases growing in Utah and here at home.Retreating yet again, we looked within the borders of the Sunflower State. While we don’t have any glaciers, nothing close to the Canadian Rockies or the cool dry desert nights, there’s still some cool things to see in Kansas. We settled on a day trip to see Castle Rock, Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park.I figured this would be an easy, hassle free trip to the northwest corner of our great state. No need to do extensive research on where to stay or look up things to do. We had a course and generally knew the area. I had a lunch recommendation from our colleague.We loaded into my wife’s car a little after 8 a.m. and headed west. We initially planned on having lunch first then getting to the sightseeing. Instead, the sign for Castle Rock beckoned from Interstate 70 and we decided eating could wait. This was the first mistake, but the second would soon become more apparent.Generally, the best way to spot a tourist is they either have way too much gear or not enough. We soon found ourselves in the latter category when we turned off a perfectly suitable gravel road to something giving minimum maintenance roads a bad name.The same process that eroded everything but Castle Rock and the nearby badlands is still in progress, and that includes the loop around the attraction. It’s compounded by vehicle traffic from looky-loos. For the better part of a mile we held our breath as we navigated over ruts more than a foot deep in spots. Again, we were traversing this in a car capable of getting high-centered on a speedbump.While our vehicle was unsuited to the local conditions, we managed to avoid getting stuck in a chasm, powered up a steep incline as the tires shot gravel behind us and then we took a wrong turn. The “road” narrowed in on us as it traced the side of a hill so the driver’s side was lower than the passenger side. Then, 15 yards from flat, smooth roadbed we came to a small gorge.My daughter is old enough she didn’t learn any new words during this adventure, but it’s safe to say the plethora of profanity built to a crescendo at this point in our journey. After surveying the gully cutting across our path, I shouted to my wife and daughter we needed to dig to level the road.We started using a jack handle to scrap dirt into the crater, and after about 30 minutes of “digging,” another group came along on the “good” road, stopped and offered their help. A half hour of poking at the dirt with a metal rod had dulled any semblance of embarrassment at our self-inflected predicament. We gladly accepted.Two of the men in the group grabbed a second jack handle from one of their vehicles and began flinging dirt. Within 10 minutes, we’d leveled the ground just enough to cautiously drive out to safe ground.We thanked our helpers and headed back to the Interstate to continue on our journey, which didn’t involve any other hiccups. We took in the badlands at Little Jerusalem with a thunderstorm in the background. At Monument Rocks, we dutifully posed for photos in a keyhole between two spires and then began our trek home, only stopping for dinner and to see the Cathedral on the Plains in Victoria.While the trip wasn’t jumping from a bridge into a river fed by glacial melt, or hiking through Zion National Park, it did remind me of the beauty and wonder within our state’s borders. Kansas is also a place where complete strangers will take the time to help, even if it means piling dirt with a jack handle. Still, if I had to do it again, I’d take a different vehicle and toss in a shovel. Just in case."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: A tourist in Kansas

Three-day weather outlook

Fort Hays State University is currently accepting applications for the position of University Police Officer. Review of applications will begin after the priority deadline of 08/17/2020. 

For a full description and a list of requirements, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2ffhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com%2fCAREERS.&amp;c=E,1,LVyXuqcw8Gbkxt-MNxjeeny4Dare5waHc9Lf2afTAVb7Rnjs6xXojYWhXLeHIggKr86twpTyA482WBHFKcJ0tk7XWpNoFgyB6cml2r7qpJGUEiJGR1JF6-WK0c0,&amp;typo=1">https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS</a>.

Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, no felony convictions, no convictions for domestic violence, and must maintain a valid Kansas driver's license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596564480613.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University is currently accepting applications for the position of University Police Officer. Review of applications will begin after the priority deadline of 08/17/2020. For a full description and a list of requirements, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2ffhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com%2fCAREERS.&amp;c=E,1,LVyXuqcw8Gbkxt-MNxjeeny4Dare5waHc9Lf2afTAVb7Rnjs6xXojYWhXLeHIggKr86twpTyA482WBHFKcJ0tk7XWpNoFgyB6cml2r7qpJGUEiJGR1JF6-WK0c0,&amp;typo=1">https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS</a>. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, no felony convictions, no convictions for domestic violence, and must maintain a valid Kansas driver's license.

Lane Co. farm couple finalist for conservation award

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Latest on Kansas' primary election (all times local):

Salina real estate broker and former Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann has won the Republican primary in Kansas’ 1st District.

Mann defeated eye surgeon and Finney County Commissioner Bill Clifford, physician’s assistant Jerry Molstad and reverend Michael Soetaert.

Mann will face the Democratic nominee in the November contest for the congressional seat being vacated by Republican Rep. Roger Marshall, who ran for the U.S. Senate. But Mann will be heavily favored in a district that hasn’t been won by a Democrat since the 1950s.

Mann campaigned a an anti-abortion, pro-gun candidate. He said he planned to support President Donald Trump’s policies.

The mostly rural farming district is one of the nation’s most Republican and has elected three congress members who went on to become U.S. senators over the past 50 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596597527918.png" alt="Tracy Mann" />
 <figcaption>Tracy Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Latest on Kansas' primary election (all times local):10:15 p.m.Salina real estate broker and former Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann has won the Republican primary in Kansas’ 1st District.Mann defeated eye surgeon and Finney County Commissioner Bill Clifford, physician’s assistant Jerry Molstad and reverend Michael Soetaert.Mann will face the Democratic nominee in the November contest for the congressional seat being vacated by Republican Rep. Roger Marshall, who ran for the U.S. Senate. But Mann will be heavily favored in a district that hasn’t been won by a Democrat since the 1950s.Mann campaigned a an anti-abortion, pro-gun candidate. He said he planned to support President Donald Trump’s policies.The mostly rural farming district is one of the nation’s most Republican and has elected three congress members who went on to become U.S. senators over the past 50 years.

Mann wins GOP primary in Kansas 1st

Kali Barnett has won the Democratic primary in Kansas’ 1st District. The 35-year-old author and music teacher from Garden City defeated Christy Davis, the former executive director of Symphony in the Flint Hills.

Barnett will face Salina real estate broker and former Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann in the November contest for the congressional seat being vacated by Republican Rep. Roger Marshall, who on Tuesday won the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate.

The seat hasn’t been won by a Democrat since the 1950s. It’s one of the nation’s most Republican districts and has elected three congressmen who went on to become U.S. senators over the past 50 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594058610345.png" alt="Kali Barnett&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kali Barnett&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Latest on Kansas' primary election (all times local):10:30 p.m.Kali Barnett has won the Democratic primary in Kansas’ 1st District. The 35-year-old author and music teacher from Garden City defeated Christy Davis, the former executive director of Symphony in the Flint Hills.Barnett will face Salina real estate broker and former Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann in the November contest for the congressional seat being vacated by Republican Rep. Roger Marshall, who on Tuesday won the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate.The seat hasn’t been won by a Democrat since the 1950s. It’s one of the nation’s most Republican districts and has elected three congressmen who went on to become U.S. senators over the past 50 years._____

Barnett wins Democratic primary in Kansas 1st

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. 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, Trego 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>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596478871632.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>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. 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, Trego 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>.

UPDATE: Preliminary Ellis County primary election results

First responders are on the scene of an accident in the 3600 block of Vine that occurred late Tuesday afternoon. 

Law enforcement officials are asking for residents to avoid the area.

Check Hays Post for more as details become available.

First responders are on the scene of an accident in the 3600 block of Vine that occurred late Tuesday afternoon. Law enforcement officials are asking for residents to avoid the area.Check Hays Post for more as details become available.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHaysPD%2Fposts%2F3674683289225800&width=500" width="500" height="671" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Accident snarls traffic on north Vine Tuesday afternoon

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

<div><iframe title="Ellis Co. Fairground buildings to remain open for use" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/fwkqn-e5a386?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis Co. Fairground buildings to remain open for use

By Jonathan Zweygardt and Becky Kiser Hays Post

Ellis County voters heading to the polls for today's Kansas primary election will see some changes at their voting locations due to the coronavirus.

According to election officer and clerk Donna Maskus, hand sanitizer stations are available.

"We've done our best to put six feet between each voting booth," Maskus says, and there is Plexiglas protecting the workers."

Every location set up in the polling area is "wiped down and sanitized each hour," says Sandra Bainter, a poll worker at the Hays Recreation Center.

Each voter is given their own pen to sign in with electronically and then mark their ballot with ink. The pens are then kept by the voter.

Although there is a face mask requirement in the city of Hays through August 31, voters cannot be turned away from polling stations for not wearing a face covering, according to Secretary of State Scott Schwab.

Polls in Ellis County are open until 7 p.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;

For candidate profiles of the contested local races in Ellis County, click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/election-2020">here</a>.

Check back with Hays Post for election results tonight as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596563269965.jpeg" alt="An Ellis County voter submits her identification to a poll worker at the Hays Recreation Center Tuesday morning prior to receiving her ballot. (Photos by Becky Kiser)" />
 <figcaption>An Ellis County voter submits her identification to a poll worker at the Hays Recreation Center Tuesday morning prior to receiving her ballot. (Photos by Becky Kiser)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596563234557.jpeg" alt="Ellis County poll workers are protected by Plexiglass" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County poll workers are protected by Plexiglass</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596563252641.jpeg" alt="Voters are using pens provided by poll workers to mark their ballots in ink. The pens, which have an electronic stylus on the other end for signing their ballots, are kept by voters." />
 <figcaption>Voters are using pens provided by poll workers to mark their ballots in ink. The pens, which have an electronic stylus on the other end for signing their ballots, are kept by voters.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596563286243.jpeg" alt="Each surface touched by voters and poll workers is sanitized every hour." />
 <figcaption>Each surface touched by voters and poll workers is sanitized every hour.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596563191120.jpeg" alt="A voter submits her completed ballot." />
 <figcaption>A voter submits her completed ballot.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jonathan Zweygardt and Becky Kiser Hays PostEllis County voters heading to the polls for today's Kansas primary election will see some changes at their voting locations due to the coronavirus.According to election officer and clerk Donna Maskus, hand sanitizer stations are available."We've done our best to put six feet between each voting booth," Maskus says, and there is Plexiglas protecting the workers."Every location set up in the polling area is "wiped down and sanitized each hour," says Sandra Bainter, a poll worker at the Hays Recreation Center.Each voter is given their own pen to sign in with electronically and then mark their ballot with ink. The pens are then kept by the voter.Although there is a face mask requirement in the city of Hays through August 31, voters cannot be turned away from polling stations for not wearing a face covering, according to Secretary of State Scott Schwab.Polls in Ellis County are open until 7 p.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;For candidate profiles of the contested local races in Ellis County, click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/election-2020">here</a>.Check back with Hays Post for election results tonight as they become available.

Ellis Co. polls open with social distancing, sanitation in place

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division announced this week that an asphalt overlay
project on Ellis Avenue will take place beginning at the intersection of Spring Hill Road and Ellis
Avenue, commencing south on Ellis Avenue for 2 miles to the intersection of Ellis Avenue
and Munjor Road. The project will begin at the 900 block of Ellis Avenue and end in the 1000
block of Ellis Avenue. 

This 2-mile stretch of Ellis Avenue will be closed to through traffic
beginning at 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and will remain closed until the project is
completed. The estimated completion date is Monday. Pending the forecast
of rain, the start/completion date could be delayed. Motorists traveling in the affected closure
area should use alternate routes of travel until the project is completed.


Direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division at 785-628-
9455.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division announced this week that an asphalt overlay
project on Ellis Avenue will take place beginning at the intersection of Spring Hill Road and Ellis
Avenue, commencing south on Ellis Avenue for 2 miles to the intersection of Ellis Avenue
and Munjor Road. The project will begin at the 900 block of Ellis Avenue and end in the 1000
block of Ellis Avenue. This 2-mile stretch of Ellis Avenue will be closed to through traffic
beginning at 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and will remain closed until the project is
completed. The estimated completion date is Monday. Pending the forecast
of rain, the start/completion date could be delayed. Motorists traveling in the affected closure
area should use alternate routes of travel until the project is completed.
Direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division at 785-628-
9455.&nbsp;

Portion of Ellis Avenue will be closed for repairs

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for&nbsp;Ellis Co RWD 1C, located in&nbsp;Ellis&nbsp;County.&nbsp;This includes the community of Antonino but does not include the City of Hays.&nbsp;This&nbsp;advisory&nbsp;is not related to Covid-19.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on&nbsp;August 04, 2020&nbsp;and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.&nbsp;KDHE&nbsp;issued the advisory because of distribution system maintenance, resulting in a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

<a></a>Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514.&nbsp;For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fpws%2Femergencyresponse%2Fwater_disruption.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9071352a15a64ff00f9408d83876b132%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637321430296048381&amp;sdata=qSXomNdaZ8pxpH37ICT7PCBj43jRnOLSGlpuE2v5ZCc%3D&amp;reserved=0">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

KDHETOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for&nbsp;Ellis Co RWD 1C, located in&nbsp;Ellis&nbsp;County.&nbsp;This includes the community of Antonino but does not include the City of Hays.&nbsp;This&nbsp;advisory&nbsp;is not related to Covid-19.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on&nbsp;August 04, 2020&nbsp;and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.&nbsp;KDHE&nbsp;issued the advisory because of distribution system maintenance, resulting in a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.<a></a>Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514.&nbsp;For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fpws%2Femergencyresponse%2Fwater_disruption.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9071352a15a64ff00f9408d83876b132%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637321430296048381&amp;sdata=qSXomNdaZ8pxpH37ICT7PCBj43jRnOLSGlpuE2v5ZCc%3D&amp;reserved=0">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil order issued for rural water district in Ellis Co.

The ducks are still racing on Aug. 5, however this year you can only watch live on Hays Post and Facebook.&nbsp; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County has made the decision to not have the event open to the public to encourage safety due to COVID-19. &nbsp;

But, you can still be part of the fun. Watch the ducks race around the Lazy River and teams race in Auto World’s Man Overboard Challenge-Part 2.&nbsp; All Duck Derby winners will be announced live. You can still help by adopting ducks until 3 p.m. Wednesday at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysduckderby.net/">www.haysduckderby.net</a>. &nbsp;

The ducks are still racing on Aug. 5, however this year you can only watch live on Hays Post and Facebook.&nbsp; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County has made the decision to not have the event open to the public to encourage safety due to COVID-19. &nbsp;But, you can still be part of the fun. Watch the ducks race around the Lazy River and teams race in Auto World’s Man Overboard Challenge-Part 2.&nbsp; All Duck Derby winners will be announced live. You can still help by adopting ducks until 3 p.m. Wednesday at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysduckderby.net/">www.haysduckderby.net</a>. &nbsp;

BBBS plans live stream of annual Duck Derby fundraiser

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Many children who are pulled from homes because of abuse or neglect leave with only the clothes on their back.

A new program that launched Friday sponsored by the Wonder Women League of Ellis County seeks to provide children with essentials as well as comfort items.

"Traumatized and facing an uncertain future, they are afraid and uncertain. They don't know what will happen to them," said Nancy Jeter, co-chairwoman of WWL.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e713b52afae0f4d5f5d59c7">Each year, an average of 125 children in Ellis County must be removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect or abandonment.</a>

Members of the Project Suitcase committee with the help of men from Employment Connections delivered 31 duffle bags for children to the Hays Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff's Office.

The duffle bags contain items, including new pajamas, underwear and socks, fleece blankets, snacks, a stuffed animal, personal hygiene products, McDonald's meal certificates, note of support from WWL and a note from a former foster child, as well as a small toy such as a deck of cards, fidget spinner or Rubik's Cube.&nbsp;

Diapers and baby formula will be included when needed.

The bags will be coordinated for appropriate gender and age of the children.

WWL hopes to continue the program indefinitely. Startup cost for the project was estimated at $12,000 with an annual maintenance cost of $5,000 to $6,000.

The WWL received a $5,000 grant from the Heartland Community Foundation to launch the project.

Many other people and organizations helped Project Suitcase get off the ground.

Project Suitcase committee members are Kerry Wasinger, Lisa Ree, Janette Meis, Sara Hicks, Rhonda Meyerhoff, Mary Ann Shorman and Nancy Jeter

Project Suitcase partners include: Department of Children and Families, St. Francis Ministries, Hays Police Department (Brian Dawson), Ellis County Sheriff’s Office (Scott Braun), CASA, Child Protective Services, Western Kansas Child Advocacy, and Juvenile Services.

Other sponsors of Project Suitcase include Erin and Trevor Giebler, Hamlin Creative Consulting, McDonald’s, eyeSmile Dental &amp; Vision, Pepsi Bottling Group, Color/Cut Salon, RD Graphics, Jeter Law Firm, First Kansas Bank, and the many people who donated pajamas and stuffed animals for the bags.

The official ribbon cutting for Project Suitcase will be at a later date when it is safe for people to gather in groups.

You can learn more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">Wonder Women League</a>&nbsp;on the United Way of Ellis County website. The individual annual membership donation starts at $50. You can join and donate online.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596222769834.jpeg" alt="Members of the Wonder Women League present bags of items for foster children as part of Project Suitcase to the Hays Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff's Office on Friday." />
 <figcaption>Members of the Wonder Women League present bags of items for foster children as part of Project Suitcase to the Hays Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff's Office on Friday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMany children who are pulled from homes because of abuse or neglect leave with only the clothes on their back.A new program that launched Friday sponsored by the Wonder Women League of Ellis County seeks to provide children with essentials as well as comfort items."Traumatized and facing an uncertain future, they are afraid and uncertain. They don't know what will happen to them," said Nancy Jeter, co-chairwoman of WWL.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e713b52afae0f4d5f5d59c7">Each year, an average of 125 children in Ellis County must be removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect or abandonment.</a>Members of the Project Suitcase committee with the help of men from Employment Connections delivered 31 duffle bags for children to the Hays Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff's Office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596230588677.jpeg" alt="Items in a sample Project Suitcase duffle bag. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Items in a sample Project Suitcase duffle bag. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The duffle bags contain items, including new pajamas, underwear and socks, fleece blankets, snacks, a stuffed animal, personal hygiene products, McDonald's meal certificates, note of support from WWL and a note from a former foster child, as well as a small toy such as a deck of cards, fidget spinner or Rubik's Cube.&nbsp;Diapers and baby formula will be included when needed.The bags will be coordinated for appropriate gender and age of the children.WWL hopes to continue the program indefinitely. Startup cost for the project was estimated at $12,000 with an annual maintenance cost of $5,000 to $6,000.The WWL received a $5,000 grant from the Heartland Community Foundation to launch the project.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596224062834.jpeg" alt="Wonder Women League volunteers pack supplies for Project Suitcase. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Wonder Women League volunteers pack supplies for Project Suitcase. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Many other people and organizations helped Project Suitcase get off the ground.Project Suitcase committee members are Kerry Wasinger, Lisa Ree, Janette Meis, Sara Hicks, Rhonda Meyerhoff, Mary Ann Shorman and Nancy JeterProject Suitcase partners include: Department of Children and Families, St. Francis Ministries, Hays Police Department (Brian Dawson), Ellis County Sheriff’s Office (Scott Braun), CASA, Child Protective Services, Western Kansas Child Advocacy, and Juvenile Services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596224341050.jpeg" alt="Workers from Employment Connections helped deliver Project Suitcase bags to the Hays Police Department and Ellis County&nbsp; Sheriff's Department on Friday." />
 <figcaption>Workers from Employment Connections helped deliver Project Suitcase bags to the Hays Police Department and Ellis County&nbsp; Sheriff's Department on Friday.</figcaption>
 </figure>Other sponsors of Project Suitcase include Erin and Trevor Giebler, Hamlin Creative Consulting, McDonald’s, eyeSmile Dental &amp; Vision, Pepsi Bottling Group, Color/Cut Salon, RD Graphics, Jeter Law Firm, First Kansas Bank, and the many people who donated pajamas and stuffed animals for the bags.The official ribbon cutting for Project Suitcase will be at a later date when it is safe for people to gather in groups.You can learn more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">Wonder Women League</a>&nbsp;on the United Way of Ellis County website. The individual annual membership donation starts at $50. You can join and donate online.

Project Suitcase seeks to comfort children entering foster care

Jennifer Anderson, RN, ICU Nurse, was recently recognized as a Daisy Award winner at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System.&nbsp;

This award is presented to an RN in deep appreciation of all that they do, who they are, and the incredible meaningful difference that they have made in the lives of so many people. She was nominated by a family member of one of her patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anderson was selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed Practice Committee.&nbsp; The Practice Committee consists of Staff and Supervisors from a variety of departments across HaysMed.&nbsp; Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers and Associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient and clinic settings. &nbsp;

“Her nomination epitomizes teamwork, leadership and customer service,” said Terry Siek, VP of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at HaysMed. “We are so fortunate to have nurses of her caliber and dedication working at HaysMed.”&nbsp;

The DAISY Award is a nationwide program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Hospital Partner, recognizing one of our nurses with this special honor every quarter. &nbsp;

To nominate a HaysMed nurse for the DAISY Award online, go to www.haysmed.com/daisyaward.&nbsp; If you have questions, you can call 785.623.2388

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596474532068.png" alt="Anderson" />
 <figcaption>Anderson</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedJennifer Anderson, RN, ICU Nurse, was recently recognized as a Daisy Award winner at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System.&nbsp;This award is presented to an RN in deep appreciation of all that they do, who they are, and the incredible meaningful difference that they have made in the lives of so many people. She was nominated by a family member of one of her patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anderson was selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed Practice Committee.&nbsp; The Practice Committee consists of Staff and Supervisors from a variety of departments across HaysMed.&nbsp; Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers and Associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient and clinic settings. &nbsp;“Her nomination epitomizes teamwork, leadership and customer service,” said Terry Siek, VP of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at HaysMed. “We are so fortunate to have nurses of her caliber and dedication working at HaysMed.”&nbsp;The DAISY Award is a nationwide program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Hospital Partner, recognizing one of our nurses with this special honor every quarter. &nbsp;To nominate a HaysMed nurse for the DAISY Award online, go to www.haysmed.com/daisyaward.&nbsp; If you have questions, you can call 785.623.2388

HaysMed nurse recognized with Daisy Award

RUSSELL — The new exhibition at the Deines Cultural Center in Russell&nbsp; opens on Friday — "Conquering the Flight of Fancy," with paintings by Michael Knutson and ceramics by Brian McCallum. Both artists are educators at Garden City Community College. The exhibition can be seen Tuesday through Friday 12 to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

McCallum is an artist and educator currently teaching all levels of 3-D art and art history at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. His sculptural work has earned numerous accolades in juried shows for more than a decade. His work and methods are featured in Lark Publications 500 Figures in Clay and Pottery Making Illustrated. McCallum has an extensive show record and was recently a featured artist at the invitational “Art of the New West” at Process Art House in Amarillo, Texas. McCallum also leads workshops at colleges and art centers throughout the U.S. His functional pottery has been quietly collected by Walmart shoppers for years.

Michael Knutson works as a 2-D Art Instructor at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. He grew up the son of two art educators and spent his childhood immersed in creativity drawing inspiration from his experiences in the natural environment of the Black Hills of South Dakota. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Black Hills State University in 2010. In 2013 Michael completed his MFA at Fort Hays State University. He is an accomplished visual artist and works primarily as a painter. Michael has an active national exhibition record of solo and group shows and has completed many public art commissions for intuitions such as the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

The Deines Cultural Center is located at&nbsp;820 N. Main Street in Russell. Call 785-483-3742 for information.

DCCRUSSELL — The new exhibition at the Deines Cultural Center in Russell&nbsp; opens on Friday — "Conquering the Flight of Fancy," with paintings by Michael Knutson and ceramics by Brian McCallum. Both artists are educators at Garden City Community College. The exhibition can be seen Tuesday through Friday 12 to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596469609504.png" alt="Ceramic artwork by Brian McCallum" />
 <figcaption>Ceramic artwork by Brian McCallum</figcaption>
 </figure>McCallum is an artist and educator currently teaching all levels of 3-D art and art history at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. His sculptural work has earned numerous accolades in juried shows for more than a decade. His work and methods are featured in Lark Publications 500 Figures in Clay and Pottery Making Illustrated. McCallum has an extensive show record and was recently a featured artist at the invitational “Art of the New West” at Process Art House in Amarillo, Texas. McCallum also leads workshops at colleges and art centers throughout the U.S. His functional pottery has been quietly collected by Walmart shoppers for years. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596469427200.jpeg" alt="Painting by Michael Knutson, an FHSU MFA graduate" />
 <figcaption>Painting by Michael Knutson, an FHSU MFA graduate</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Knutson works as a 2-D Art Instructor at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. He grew up the son of two art educators and spent his childhood immersed in creativity drawing inspiration from his experiences in the natural environment of the Black Hills of South Dakota. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Black Hills State University in 2010. In 2013 Michael completed his MFA at Fort Hays State University. He is an accomplished visual artist and works primarily as a painter. Michael has an active national exhibition record of solo and group shows and has completed many public art commissions for intuitions such as the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.The Deines Cultural Center is located at&nbsp;820 N. Main Street in Russell. Call 785-483-3742 for information.

FHSU alum is featured painter at new Deines exhibition

Nobody didn’t like Kansas getting about $1.2 billion –that’s billion, not just those pesky millions – to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, to rebuild the damaged economy, to finance health care and the exceptional new expenditures that will be required to safely operate schools, colleges and public offices, and to get ready for the next time a pandemic explodes across the state.

Practically, there’s not a Kansan who hasn’t felt the effects of the pandemic, even in western Kansas’ Rawlins and Wallace counties, the two in the state which have apparently had no known cases of the disease.

But that $1.2 billion to meet the state’s costs and prepare for the future is proving to be pretty tricky for members of the State Finance Council to deal with. It’s just a whole different way to do business than the legislators who make up that panel have ever dealt with.

Where should that money go, who should get it and for what?

Well, there was the first $400 million, which was divvied up among 103 Kansas counties, (yes, we still have 105 counties, but Sedgwick and Johnson are so big they got their own direct funding under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act). That first roughly $400 million was largely just long division: population estimated per-person expenses caused by the pandemic, plus some extra for high unemployment caused by the disease. That was relatively easy.

But the remaining roughly $600 million that the state is supposed to distribute by Dec. 30, well, that’s where everything gets complicated, especially to legislators on the Finance Council who have been trained to spend state funds as conservatively as possible, and for specific purposes. That specificity during the legislative session means nothing so general as “economic recovery” or financing health care to unprecedented numbers of Kansans, plus getting oxygen to businesses which were closed or severely&nbsp; limited in operations through the statewide shut-down to deter spread of the disease.

The Finance Council has already approved more than $100 million in those CARES Act funds for public health, $78 million for economic development and $75 million for education ranging from pre-school to community colleges.&nbsp;

But it is the most trendy-sounding of the issues that will be dealt with that is the most complicated for the governor’s coronavirus team to get approved by the legislators who will have to OK the distribution of federal funds. It’s “connectivity” – or the Internet.

The issue is a governor’s task force recommendation to spend up to $50 million for getting broadband Internet service statewide, faster service that can handle everything from telemedicine that allows health care in doctor-sparse areas to services for stay-at-home schoolchildren in vast areas of the state without modern Internet service—or Internet service at all…

And there’s another $10 million that lawmakers on the Finance Council want to study for getting Internet service to the state’s low-income residents. That broadband service isn’t free, and often isn’t cheap.

The federal money, well, it’s federal money, but lawmakers want to know who’s getting it.

For example, there’s $61 million to restart and help finance businesses across the state including grants to small businesses pounded by lack of spending by Kansans. “Grant” is the key here: it’s giving federal money to help businesses stay afloat and prosper. It’s just handing federal dollars to business for a good purpose, but it’s out of character for most lawmakers.

What will help businesses prosper, and do legislative leaders trust the governor’s Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) task force to decide which businesses will make the right decisions?&nbsp;&nbsp;

We’ll see how that turns out in the next few weeks when those federally funded checks start getting sent to Kansas businesses…

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592848178110.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>Nobody didn’t like Kansas getting about $1.2 billion –that’s billion, not just those pesky millions – to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, to rebuild the damaged economy, to finance health care and the exceptional new expenditures that will be required to safely operate schools, colleges and public offices, and to get ready for the next time a pandemic explodes across the state.Practically, there’s not a Kansan who hasn’t felt the effects of the pandemic, even in western Kansas’ Rawlins and Wallace counties, the two in the state which have apparently had no known cases of the disease.But that $1.2 billion to meet the state’s costs and prepare for the future is proving to be pretty tricky for members of the State Finance Council to deal with. It’s just a whole different way to do business than the legislators who make up that panel have ever dealt with.Where should that money go, who should get it and for what?Well, there was the first $400 million, which was divvied up among 103 Kansas counties, (yes, we still have 105 counties, but Sedgwick and Johnson are so big they got their own direct funding under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act). That first roughly $400 million was largely just long division: population estimated per-person expenses caused by the pandemic, plus some extra for high unemployment caused by the disease. That was relatively easy.But the remaining roughly $600 million that the state is supposed to distribute by Dec. 30, well, that’s where everything gets complicated, especially to legislators on the Finance Council who have been trained to spend state funds as conservatively as possible, and for specific purposes. That specificity during the legislative session means nothing so general as “economic recovery” or financing health care to unprecedented numbers of Kansans, plus getting oxygen to businesses which were closed or severely&nbsp; limited in operations through the statewide shut-down to deter spread of the disease.The Finance Council has already approved more than $100 million in those CARES Act funds for public health, $78 million for economic development and $75 million for education ranging from pre-school to community colleges.&nbsp;But it is the most trendy-sounding of the issues that will be dealt with that is the most complicated for the governor’s coronavirus team to get approved by the legislators who will have to OK the distribution of federal funds. It’s “connectivity” – or the Internet.The issue is a governor’s task force recommendation to spend up to $50 million for getting broadband Internet service statewide, faster service that can handle everything from telemedicine that allows health care in doctor-sparse areas to services for stay-at-home schoolchildren in vast areas of the state without modern Internet service—or Internet service at all…And there’s another $10 million that lawmakers on the Finance Council want to study for getting Internet service to the state’s low-income residents. That broadband service isn’t free, and often isn’t cheap.The federal money, well, it’s federal money, but lawmakers want to know who’s getting it.For example, there’s $61 million to restart and help finance businesses across the state including grants to small businesses pounded by lack of spending by Kansans. “Grant” is the key here: it’s giving federal money to help businesses stay afloat and prosper. It’s just handing federal dollars to business for a good purpose, but it’s out of character for most lawmakers.What will help businesses prosper, and do legislative leaders trust the governor’s Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) task force to decide which businesses will make the right decisions?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll see how that turns out in the next few weeks when those federally funded checks start getting sent to Kansas businesses…Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

HAWVER: How best to divvy up federal aid in Kansas

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

What grows in the apple orchard? Well, one would think a safe guess would be “apples.” Today we’ll meet a grower who indeed produces lots of apples and other tree fruit, but he is also developing innovative ideas about his production processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gabe Spurgeon is manager of South Baldwin Farms&nbsp;near Baldwin City. A Missourian, he met his wife in honors college while they were attending Pittsburg State. He earned degrees in math and physics and worked for engineering firms in Joplin and Pittsburg before they moved to Baldwin City so as to be close to her family.&nbsp;

As a kid, Gabe worked in peach orchards during the summertime. After graduating from college, he found he didn’t enjoy working inside at a desk.&nbsp;

His father-in-law had purchased a farm south of Baldwin City in 2000 and was haying it but had always been interested in having a commercial orchard. They decided to devote part of the farm to the orchard with Gabe doing the day-to-day management. The first apple trees were planted in 2015, with peach and apple trees and other products following.&nbsp;

Today, South Baldwin Farms has some 36,000 trees. Their farm produces apples, peaches, nectarines and blackberries, with cherry trees coming into production soon.&nbsp;&nbsp;South Baldwin Farms has an 11,000-square-foot facility including a retail storefront, packing facility and 2,400 square feet of cold storage. The farm has a pumpkin patch and a seasonal U-pick operation as well.&nbsp;

Cider is homemade in the fall. “I like it being special,” Gabe said. “We use our own apples so it can be fresher with higher quality.”&nbsp;

This is not your grandfather’s orchard. “The engineer side of my brain is always looking for a better way to do things,” Gabe said. For example, he chose to grow dwarf trees which produce quality apples quicker. They are grown in high density, which saves land and labor. “In 2019, we got 500 bushels per acre on some three-year-old trees,” Gabe said. “We’re quickly becoming the biggest tree-fruit producer in Kansas.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gabe continues to innovate. “We went to Australia to learn about high density peaches,” he said.&nbsp;

“We got a Kansas Department of Agriculture specialty crop block grant to do a field trial on using netting over our trees which is supposed to protect from hail, windburn, sunburn and bird damage,” Gabe said. Through another project, they have found that reflective fabric on the ground can help develop the color of the fruit.&nbsp;

Their blackberries are grown on a rotating trellis, which allows easier harvest, more sun where needed, and protection when it is not needed. “Our sun scald used to be five- to 10 percent,” he said. “Now it’s virtually zero.”&nbsp;

K-State Research and Extension entomologist Raymond Cloyd has been helpful. “He’s been fantastic,” Gabe said. South Baldwin Farms is a member of the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s From the Land of Kansas program.&nbsp;

Weather can be a challenge. A freeze on Good Friday of 2020 caused a 90% reduction in the peach crop. That is reminiscent of the Armistice Day freeze in the 1940s, when the temperature fell from 70 degrees to 15 degrees in 12 hours. According to the stories, it sounded like a minefield in the orchards, with sap freezing in the trees and the trees literally exploding.&nbsp;

Current apple varieties include Gala, Pink Lady, Honey Crisp, Autumn Crisp, Jonagold, Granny Smith, Winesap, and more. Through the Midwest Apple Improvement Association, more varieties are being explored.&nbsp;

“In our store, a customer might say, ‘When were these picked and where did they come from?’” Gabe said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I like to say, ‘I picked them myself, two hours ago.’ That’s the shortest supply chain you can get.”&nbsp;

It’s located near the rural community of Baldwin City, population 4,691 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/South-Baldwin-Farms-148208828709205">South Baldwin Farms on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;

What grows in the apple orchard? In this case, new practices are growing along with the apples. We commend Gabe Spurgeon for making a difference with his innovative ideas, because those don’t just grow on trees.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596030684390.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentWhat grows in the apple orchard? Well, one would think a safe guess would be “apples.” Today we’ll meet a grower who indeed produces lots of apples and other tree fruit, but he is also developing innovative ideas about his production processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gabe Spurgeon is manager of South Baldwin Farms&nbsp;near Baldwin City. A Missourian, he met his wife in honors college while they were attending Pittsburg State. He earned degrees in math and physics and worked for engineering firms in Joplin and Pittsburg before they moved to Baldwin City so as to be close to her family.&nbsp;As a kid, Gabe worked in peach orchards during the summertime. After graduating from college, he found he didn’t enjoy working inside at a desk.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592753893213.jpeg" alt="Ron Wilson" />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson</figcaption>
 </figure>His father-in-law had purchased a farm south of Baldwin City in 2000 and was haying it but had always been interested in having a commercial orchard. They decided to devote part of the farm to the orchard with Gabe doing the day-to-day management. The first apple trees were planted in 2015, with peach and apple trees and other products following.&nbsp;Today, South Baldwin Farms has some 36,000 trees. Their farm produces apples, peaches, nectarines and blackberries, with cherry trees coming into production soon.&nbsp;&nbsp;South Baldwin Farms has an 11,000-square-foot facility including a retail storefront, packing facility and 2,400 square feet of cold storage. The farm has a pumpkin patch and a seasonal U-pick operation as well.&nbsp;Cider is homemade in the fall. “I like it being special,” Gabe said. “We use our own apples so it can be fresher with higher quality.”&nbsp;This is not your grandfather’s orchard. “The engineer side of my brain is always looking for a better way to do things,” Gabe said. For example, he chose to grow dwarf trees which produce quality apples quicker. They are grown in high density, which saves land and labor. “In 2019, we got 500 bushels per acre on some three-year-old trees,” Gabe said. “We’re quickly becoming the biggest tree-fruit producer in Kansas.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Gabe continues to innovate. “We went to Australia to learn about high density peaches,” he said.&nbsp;“We got a Kansas Department of Agriculture specialty crop block grant to do a field trial on using netting over our trees which is supposed to protect from hail, windburn, sunburn and bird damage,” Gabe said. Through another project, they have found that reflective fabric on the ground can help develop the color of the fruit.&nbsp;Their blackberries are grown on a rotating trellis, which allows easier harvest, more sun where needed, and protection when it is not needed. “Our sun scald used to be five- to 10 percent,” he said. “Now it’s virtually zero.”&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension entomologist Raymond Cloyd has been helpful. “He’s been fantastic,” Gabe said. South Baldwin Farms is a member of the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s From the Land of Kansas program.&nbsp;Weather can be a challenge. A freeze on Good Friday of 2020 caused a 90% reduction in the peach crop. That is reminiscent of the Armistice Day freeze in the 1940s, when the temperature fell from 70 degrees to 15 degrees in 12 hours. According to the stories, it sounded like a minefield in the orchards, with sap freezing in the trees and the trees literally exploding.&nbsp;Current apple varieties include Gala, Pink Lady, Honey Crisp, Autumn Crisp, Jonagold, Granny Smith, Winesap, and more. Through the Midwest Apple Improvement Association, more varieties are being explored.&nbsp;“In our store, a customer might say, ‘When were these picked and where did they come from?’” Gabe said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I like to say, ‘I picked them myself, two hours ago.’ That’s the shortest supply chain you can get.”&nbsp;It’s located near the rural community of Baldwin City, population 4,691 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/South-Baldwin-Farms-148208828709205">South Baldwin Farms on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;What grows in the apple orchard? In this case, new practices are growing along with the apples. We commend Gabe Spurgeon for making a difference with his innovative ideas, because those don’t just grow on trees.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Gabe Spurgeon, South Baldwin Farms 

WICHITA – The Hays Larks took advantage of 11 walks and got
a solid start on the mound from Wyatt Divis and beat the Kansas City All-Stars 10-0 in seven
innings at Eck Stadium in the opening round of the 86th NBC World Series. 

The
Larks (21-8) advance to the second round of the 13-team double-elimination tournament where they will play the Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club at 8:3 p.m. Tuesday at Hobert-Detter Field in Hutchinson. Lonestar scored a run in the bottom of the ninth to tie then another in the 10th to edge the Houston (TX) MVP Prospects 3-2.

Divis (3-0), who had walked three in his 10 outings during
the regular season, walked two in the first inning but settled down after that
to pick up the win. The third-year Lark struck out nine while allowing only two
hits over five innings.

Drew Buhr and Ryan Ruder both pitched a scoreless inning
of relief.

The Larks first three batters reached safely to start the
game in the top of the first inning. Leo Jiminian scored on a bases-loaded walk
to newcomer Brennen van Breusegan. Matt Cavanagh, who doubled, scored on a wild
pitch.

The Larks went up 3-0 on Jiminian’s groundout to short in
the fourth.

They put the game away with a four-run fifth. With two outs,
Max McGuire singled which was followed by four straight walks and a hit batter.

Hays tacked on three more runs in the in the seventh for the final margin.

Matt Cavanagh, Max McGuire and Sean Cooper all had two of
the Larks 12 hits with McGuire driving in two runs.

WICHITA – The Hays Larks took advantage of 11 walks and got
a solid start on the mound from Wyatt Divis and beat the Kansas City All-Stars 10-0 in seven
innings at Eck Stadium in the opening round of the 86th NBC World Series. The
Larks (21-8) advance to the second round of the 13-team double-elimination tournament where they will play the Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club at 8:3 p.m. Tuesday at Hobert-Detter Field in Hutchinson. Lonestar scored a run in the bottom of the ninth to tie then another in the 10th to edge the Houston (TX) MVP Prospects 3-2.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/869761549&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/8-3-20-larks-interview" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interiew 080220" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interiew 080220</a></div></div>Divis (3-0), who had walked three in his 10 outings during
the regular season, walked two in the first inning but settled down after that
to pick up the win. The third-year Lark struck out nine while allowing only two
hits over five innings.Drew Buhr and Ryan Ruder both pitched a scoreless inning
of relief.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/869761672&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/8-3-20-larks-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Kansas City All-Stars highlights 080220" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Kansas City All-Stars highlights 080220</a></div></div>The Larks first three batters reached safely to start the
game in the top of the first inning. Leo Jiminian scored on a bases-loaded walk
to newcomer Brennen van Breusegan. Matt Cavanagh, who doubled, scored on a wild
pitch.The Larks went up 3-0 on Jiminian’s groundout to short in
the fourth.They put the game away with a four-run fifth. With two outs,
Max McGuire singled which was followed by four straight walks and a hit batter.Hays tacked on three more runs in the in the seventh for the final margin.Matt Cavanagh, Max McGuire and Sean Cooper all had two of
the Larks 12 hits with McGuire driving in two runs.

Larks roll in NBC World Series opener

OSBORNE COUNTY —The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Osborne Police Department and the Osborne County Sheriff's office are investigating a fatal shooting and have identified the victim as 58-year-old Patrick Johnson of Salina.

Just after 11 p.m. July 31, the Osborne Police Department requested KBI assistance in the case, according to a media release from the KBI. Special agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded.

Law enforcement found Johnson in a basement of a home on Washington Street with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A family member at the home reported he had been in a physical altercation with Johnson that led to the shooting. No arrests have been made. Authorities have released no additional details.

OSBORNE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a death that occurred Friday in Osborne.

Just after 10:30p.m. Friday, the Osborne Police Department was notified of a shooting that occurred on Washington Street in Osborne,&nbsp; according to a facebook announcement posted by the department Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596324701606.jpeg" alt="KBI on the scene of the investigation -photo Osborne Police" />
 <figcaption>KBI on the scene of the investigation -photo Osborne Police</figcaption>
 </figure>OSBORNE COUNTY —The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Osborne Police Department and the Osborne County Sheriff's office are investigating a fatal shooting and have identified the victim as 58-year-old Patrick Johnson of Salina.Just after 11 p.m. July 31, the Osborne Police Department requested KBI assistance in the case, according to a media release from the KBI. Special agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded.Law enforcement found Johnson in a basement of a home on Washington Street with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.A family member at the home reported he had been in a physical altercation with Johnson that led to the shooting. No arrests have been made. Authorities have released no additional details.-------OSBORNE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a death that occurred Friday in Osborne.Just after 10:30p.m. Friday, the Osborne Police Department was notified of a shooting that occurred on Washington Street in Osborne,&nbsp; according to a facebook announcement posted by the department Saturday."A deceased individual was located in the residence and the scene was secured for processing," the department said.The Osborne County Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation were assisting in the investigation.The name of the victim has not been released.

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