Three-day weather outlook

The Osborne police department was investigating a death that occurred Friday in Osborne.

"On July 31 at approximately 10:40 p.m. the Osborne Police Department was notified of a shooting that occurred on Washington St. in Osborne," 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.

Hays PostThe Osborne police department was investigating a death that occurred Friday in Osborne."On July 31 at approximately 10:40 p.m. the Osborne Police Department was notified of a shooting that occurred on Washington St. in Osborne," 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.

Shooting death under investigation in Osborne

From a health standpoint, vegetables are a five-star food group: naturally nutrient-rich; better tasting than a vitamin pill; low in calories and fat; cholesterol-free; and packed with disease-fighting phytonutrients. To maximize your health with vegetables, nutrition experts suggest at least three to five servings per day – in a rainbow of colors. All types of vegetables can be nourishing and delicious – fresh, frozen, canned, and juiced. Here are a dozen daily ways to treat yourself to good health!

I hope you will consider joining me at the Thursday, Summer Street Stroll on August 3rd in Great Bend. I will have a booth set up with excellent Extension resources. I will also offer free canner gauge testing from 4 – 6 PM.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>From a health standpoint, vegetables are a five-star food group: naturally nutrient-rich; better tasting than a vitamin pill; low in calories and fat; cholesterol-free; and packed with disease-fighting phytonutrients. To maximize your health with vegetables, nutrition experts suggest at least three to five servings per day – in a rainbow of colors. All types of vegetables can be nourishing and delicious – fresh, frozen, canned, and juiced. Here are a dozen daily ways to treat yourself to good health!<ul>
 <li>Broccoli and cauliflower:&nbsp; Versatile and very healthful – eat them raw or cooked, in a salad, or even a slaw.</li><li>Carrots: Sweet, crunchy, good for your teeth, eyes and heart! Perfect raw or cooked in a stew.</li><li>Peppers: Green, red, yellow, orange, or even purple! Enjoy peppers in a salad, stir-fry=casserole, or as a snack.</li><li>Spinach: A salad of baby spinach leaves with pears, apples, or dried cranberries can turn anyone into a real spinach lover.</li><li>Onions: The zesty onion family, including scallions, leeks, and garlic too, offer some powerful antioxidant nutrients.</li><li>Peas: Fresh, frozen, or even canned, peas are a treat to eat – and they are very popular with young children.</li><li>Beets: If you have never liked beets, try them in a new way – like roasted, grilled or lightly steamed in the microwave.</li><li>Sweet potatoes or yams: Switch the color on your usual baked potato – and you will get a lot more nutrients, along with great taste.</li><li>Mushrooms: Just a mushroom or two adds rich flavor to a casserole, soup, stew, stir-fry, or even a tossed green salad.</li><li>Leaf and romaine lettuce: Rule of thumb for a healthy salad: the darker green or red the lettuce leaves, the more nutrients you get.</li><li>Green, yellow or purple beans: Like their pea “cousins” beans offer some fiber and a little bit of protein, along with vitamins and minerals.</li><li>Tomatoes: Cooking increases the availability of some tomato nutrients – so enjoy canned sauce, paste and chunks.</li>
 </ul>I hope you will consider joining me at the Thursday, Summer Street Stroll on August 3rd in Great Bend. I will have a booth set up with excellent Extension resources. I will also offer free canner gauge testing from 4 – 6 PM.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Delicious, easy ways to enjoy vegetables

GOVE COUNTY – The Pratt Police Department reported that 79-year-old James Flummerfelt, the subject of a statewide silver alert, was located by the Gove County Sheriff’s Office in Gove County. He was then taken to a local hospital for treatment.

PRATT COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pratt Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Pratt man.

The whereabouts of James “Jim” E. Flummerfelt, 79, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him, according to a media release from the KBI.

Jim is a white male, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, with gray hair and hazel eyes. If anyone sees Flummerfelt or his vehicle, please immediately call the Pratt Police Department at (620) 672-5551.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596298043207.png" alt="Jim&nbsp;Flummerfelt- photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Jim&nbsp;Flummerfelt- photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>GOVE COUNTY – The Pratt Police Department reported that 79-year-old James Flummerfelt, the subject of a statewide silver alert, was located by the Gove County Sheriff’s Office in Gove County. He was then taken to a local hospital for treatment.--------PRATT COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pratt Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Pratt man.The whereabouts of James “Jim” E. Flummerfelt, 79, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him, according to a media release from the KBI.Jim is a white male, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, with gray hair and hazel eyes. If anyone sees Flummerfelt or his vehicle, please immediately call the Pratt Police Department at (620) 672-5551.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled; missing Kan. man found safe

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Seven people, including an Alaska state lawmaker, died Friday when two small airplanes collided in midair near the airport in Soldotna, a small community on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.

Alaska State Troopers said state Rep. Gary Knopp, 67, of Kenai was the sole occupant of one plane. The other plane was flown by a local pilot, and carried a guide from Kansas and four people from South Carolina.

“This is an unfathomable tragedy for multiple families today,” Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner Amanda Price said. “Troopers and partner agencies have worked together diligently at the scene and have reached out to next of kin to notify them of this heartbreaking incident.”

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the fatal accident, which occurred just before 8:30 a.m.

Rita Geller, who works at a golf course near the airport, said she started running when she heard the planes hit, and watched one fall to the ground,

“I ran to more of a clearing and basically saw it explode,” she told the Anchorage Daily News. “The engine, things were flying off of it. I didn’t see the second plane, but I saw a lot of debris flying around. It was horrific. It was just like 9/11.”

Troopers say six of the seven people were pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. The seventh person died while being transported to a hospital.

Besides Knopp, troopers identified the other six people killed as pilot Gregory Bell, 57, of Soldotna; <a href="https://www.gobeyondthebend.com/?fbclid=IwAR147u_srG7VtR1WuCONERGJ6eKZTaGndLSKFEdV2Qxc1AAt0Z6rtfiVYv8">guide David Rogers, 40, </a>of Kansas; and Caleb Hulsey, 26; Heather Hulsey, 25; Mackay Hulsey, 24, and Kirstin Wright, 23, all of South Carolina.

Bell was one of the owners of High Adventure Air Charter in Soldotna, which offers bear viewing adventures, fishing and hunting trips and glacier tours, according to its website.

A person who answered the at the charter business Friday afternoon said the company had no comment.

“We live in a small, tight community here in the Central Peninsula. When I heard the horrific sounds of a plane crash this morning, which occurred very close to my home, I knew there was a high probability it involved someone we knew well,” state Sen. Peter Micciche said in a statement.

“I have known Gary Knopp and Greg Bell for most of my life. Gary has served the Kenai Peninsula community for decades. I have flown with Greg and never felt to be in better, more safety-focused hands while in the air. We are reeling from the loss to our community,” he said.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered U.S. and state flags to be lowered to half-staff and to remain in that position of honor for Knopp until sunset Monday.

“The first lady and I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Rep. Knopp’s family as they mourn his untimely passing,” Dunleavy said in a statement. “Throughout his 42 years on the Kenai Peninsula, Gary became well known as an avid outdoorsman, a skilled pilot, and a dedicated public servant. His presence will no doubt be missed by those he faithfully served.”

House Speaker Bryce Edgmon of Dillingham said he was shocked and devastated upon hearing of Knopp’s death. “Gary was a one-of-a-kind leader and a true Alaskan who worked tirelessly for his district in the Legislature. He will be missed by many.”

Senate President Cathy Giessel, a Republican from Anchorage, called it “a heart-breaking tragedy. More than a legislator, Gary Knopp was a husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend. He will be tremendously missed.”

The Federal Aviation Administration initially said the two planes involved were a single-engine de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver and a twin-engine Piper Aztec, However, the FAA later said it did not believe the second plane was a Piper Aztec, but it had not yet confirmed the make and model of the airplane involved.

The NTSB later tweeted the second plane was a Piper PA-12.

The two planes collided approximately 2 miles northeast of the Soldotna Airport, the FAA statement said after crash.

The FAA sent two investigators to the crash site, which is about 150 miles (241 kilometres) southwest of Anchorage.

Knopp, a Republican, left the House GOP caucus and served in a coalition of Democrats, independents and GOP lawmakers that comprised the House Majority. That left the remaining House Republicans in the minority.

Knopp faced two Republican challengers in the Aug. 18 primary. A message sent to the state Division of Elections to see if Knopp’s name would remain on the ballot was not immediately returned.

Knopp was first elected to the state House in 2016, and served for years before that on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly.

He was born in Whitefish, Montana, and moved to Alaska in 1979. He eventually settled in Kenai and worked as a general contractor.

His hobbies included flying , diving, hunting, golfing “and enjoying life in general at home on the Peninsula,” according to his legislative biography.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596282267021.png" alt="Crash scene photo by&nbsp;Angela Krenzien courtesy&nbsp;KTVA&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Crash scene photo by&nbsp;Angela Krenzien courtesy&nbsp;KTVA&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Seven people, including an Alaska state lawmaker, died Friday when two small airplanes collided in midair near the airport in Soldotna, a small community on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.Alaska State Troopers said state Rep. Gary Knopp, 67, of Kenai was the sole occupant of one plane. The other plane was flown by a local pilot, and carried a guide from Kansas and four people from South Carolina.“This is an unfathomable tragedy for multiple families today,” Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner Amanda Price said. “Troopers and partner agencies have worked together diligently at the scene and have reached out to next of kin to notify them of this heartbreaking incident.”The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the fatal accident, which occurred just before 8:30 a.m.Rita Geller, who works at a golf course near the airport, said she started running when she heard the planes hit, and watched one fall to the ground,“I ran to more of a clearing and basically saw it explode,” she told the Anchorage Daily News. “The engine, things were flying off of it. I didn’t see the second plane, but I saw a lot of debris flying around. It was horrific. It was just like 9/11.”Troopers say six of the seven people were pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. The seventh person died while being transported to a hospital.Besides Knopp, troopers identified the other six people killed as pilot Gregory Bell, 57, of Soldotna; <a href="https://www.gobeyondthebend.com/?fbclid=IwAR147u_srG7VtR1WuCONERGJ6eKZTaGndLSKFEdV2Qxc1AAt0Z6rtfiVYv8">guide David Rogers, 40, </a>of Kansas; and Caleb Hulsey, 26; Heather Hulsey, 25; Mackay Hulsey, 24, and Kirstin Wright, 23, all of South Carolina.Bell was one of the owners of High Adventure Air Charter in Soldotna, which offers bear viewing adventures, fishing and hunting trips and glacier tours, according to its website.A person who answered the at the charter business Friday afternoon said the company had no comment.“We live in a small, tight community here in the Central Peninsula. When I heard the horrific sounds of a plane crash this morning, which occurred very close to my home, I knew there was a high probability it involved someone we knew well,” state Sen. Peter Micciche said in a statement.“I have known Gary Knopp and Greg Bell for most of my life. Gary has served the Kenai Peninsula community for decades. I have flown with Greg and never felt to be in better, more safety-focused hands while in the air. We are reeling from the loss to our community,” he said.Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered U.S. and state flags to be lowered to half-staff and to remain in that position of honor for Knopp until sunset Monday.“The first lady and I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Rep. Knopp’s family as they mourn his untimely passing,” Dunleavy said in a statement. “Throughout his 42 years on the Kenai Peninsula, Gary became well known as an avid outdoorsman, a skilled pilot, and a dedicated public servant. His presence will no doubt be missed by those he faithfully served.”House Speaker Bryce Edgmon of Dillingham said he was shocked and devastated upon hearing of Knopp’s death. “Gary was a one-of-a-kind leader and a true Alaskan who worked tirelessly for his district in the Legislature. He will be missed by many.”Senate President Cathy Giessel, a Republican from Anchorage, called it “a heart-breaking tragedy. More than a legislator, Gary Knopp was a husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend. He will be tremendously missed.”The Federal Aviation Administration initially said the two planes involved were a single-engine de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver and a twin-engine Piper Aztec, However, the FAA later said it did not believe the second plane was a Piper Aztec, but it had not yet confirmed the make and model of the airplane involved.The NTSB later tweeted the second plane was a Piper PA-12.The two planes collided approximately 2 miles northeast of the Soldotna Airport, the FAA statement said after crash.The FAA sent two investigators to the crash site, which is about 150 miles (241 kilometres) southwest of Anchorage.Knopp, a Republican, left the House GOP caucus and served in a coalition of Democrats, independents and GOP lawmakers that comprised the House Majority. That left the remaining House Republicans in the minority.Knopp faced two Republican challengers in the Aug. 18 primary. A message sent to the state Division of Elections to see if Knopp’s name would remain on the ballot was not immediately returned.Knopp was first elected to the state House in 2016, and served for years before that on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly.He was born in Whitefish, Montana, and moved to Alaska in 1979. He eventually settled in Kenai and worked as a general contractor.His hobbies included flying , diving, hunting, golfing “and enjoying life in general at home on the Peninsula,” according to his legislative biography.

Midair collision kills 7 in Alaska including guide from Kansas

For a closer look at the contested races on the ballot for Tuesday's primary election, visit the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/election-2020">Hays Post Election 2020 page.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595618651933.jpeg" alt="File photo courtesy Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>File photo courtesy Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>For a closer look at the contested races on the ballot for Tuesday's primary election, visit the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/election-2020">Hays Post Election 2020 page.</a>

2020 primary election candidate profiles

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Starting Monday, Ellis County plans to limit gatherings in the Unrein and Schenk buildings with the buildings closing to mass gathering completely by Sept. 1.

The policy will be reviewed for final approval by the Ellis County Commission at its meeting at 5 p.m. Monday at the county administration building.

The change is part of a policy to eliminate all indoor gatherings at county-owned property in attempts to curb the spread of COVID-19, Ellis County Administrator J.D. Cox said.

Both buildings at the Ellis County Fairgrounds are frequently used for wedding receptions and other events. Events are usually scheduled in the buildings year round.&nbsp;

Cox said county staff have already started to notify individuals who have booked the buildings about the cancellations. He said the phased approach was an attempt to give renters time to make alternate arrangements.

The chart below shows the phases for gatherings at the buildings with total closure happening after Aug. 31.

Cox said the proposed policy is in response to increasing COVID-19 numbers in the county with some cases being the result of contact at mass gatherings at county-owned facilities.&nbsp;

Also on the county&nbsp; agenda is a transfer of $300,000 from Hess Services for the Northwest Business Corridor project.

Hess received a workforce grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Dan Hess said he would commit this funding to Ellis County to help pay for the business corridor project.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostStarting Monday, Ellis County plans to limit gatherings in the Unrein and Schenk buildings with the buildings closing to mass gathering completely by Sept. 1.The policy will be reviewed for final approval by the Ellis County Commission at its meeting at 5 p.m. Monday at the county administration building.The change is part of a policy to eliminate all indoor gatherings at county-owned property in attempts to curb the spread of COVID-19, Ellis County Administrator J.D. Cox said.Both buildings at the Ellis County Fairgrounds are frequently used for wedding receptions and other events. Events are usually scheduled in the buildings year round.&nbsp;Cox said county staff have already started to notify individuals who have booked the buildings about the cancellations. He said the phased approach was an attempt to give renters time to make alternate arrangements.The chart below shows the phases for gatherings at the buildings with total closure happening after Aug. 31.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596209197390.png" alt="Unrein, Schenk buildings gathering limits" />
 <figcaption>Unrein, Schenk buildings gathering limits</figcaption>
 </figure>Cox said the proposed policy is in response to increasing COVID-19 numbers in the county with some cases being the result of contact at mass gatherings at county-owned facilities.&nbsp;Also on the county&nbsp; agenda is a transfer of $300,000 from Hess Services for the Northwest Business Corridor project.Hess received a workforce grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Dan Hess said he would commit this funding to Ellis County to help pay for the business corridor project.

Ellis Co. to consider ending mass gatherings in county buildings

COLBY — The Colby Community College men’s basketball team will host their annual golf tournament on Friday, Aug. 28, at Meadow Lake Golf Course. All proceeds will be used to support the program.

Registration for the four-person scramble will begin at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $280 per&nbsp;team&nbsp;and includes a chance to win a variety of hole prizes. Participants are asked to make&nbsp;cart&nbsp;arrangements.

Opportunities to be a hole sponsor are available. For more information, contact Coach Rusty Elmore at (270) 250-3137 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581529246979.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The Colby Community College men’s basketball team will host their annual golf tournament on Friday, Aug. 28, at Meadow Lake Golf Course. All proceeds will be used to support the program.Registration for the four-person scramble will begin at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $280 per&nbsp;team&nbsp;and includes a chance to win a variety of hole prizes. Participants are asked to make&nbsp;cart&nbsp;arrangements.Opportunities to be a hole sponsor are available. For more information, contact Coach Rusty Elmore at (270) 250-3137 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu</a>.

Colby CC men’s basketball fundraiser will be Aug. 28

While we may have our disagreements at times about how Kansas is run, I know that we also both want what we believe is best for our state. I have been following some of the changes that you have made to the Department of Commerce and have found many interesting and similar to areas that I have been advocating for in op-eds and social media.&nbsp;

I am writing this open letter with some more suggestions for how Kansas can improve our Department of Commerce in order to focus this agency on job creation and growth around our state. While there are many things that go into job growth, including a good tax environment, low electric rates, rural broadband and an educated workforce, Kansas needs a marketing department who can sell why businesses want to come here. Sadly, the state’s Department of Commerce has been lacking and many in our business community and our local governments have seen this.&nbsp;

First and foremost, we need to center the Department of Commerce on being an economic development department. No business could survive without a strong marketing department and the State of Kansas is the same. Unfortunately, the Department of Commerce has become a hodge podge of programs that have become of the focus.&nbsp;

We need to more workforce development out of the Department of Commerce and into the Department of Labor. Most states house workforce development in the labor department and employment department and it makes sense. Workforce development issues dovetail with the employment aspects of the Department of Labor.&nbsp;

Making this move would clear up the amount of time that Commerce Department leaders spend on workforce development and allow them to have a more laser like focus on economic development and marketing our state.&nbsp;

Next, we need to move tourism from the Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and place it back in the Commerce Department. If we are to make the Commerce Department a true marketing department for our state, then tourism needs to be in this agency. Tourism is a heavily marketing based agency and combining all of our state’s marketing and branding efforts together makes sense. This is why many states have economic development and tourism under one roof.&nbsp;

Tourism is more than just our parks and wildlife. It is our small businesses, our scenic rural communities, our state’s rich history, our artists, our college sports teams. Many existing Commerce Department programs, including for Kansas Main Streets, dovetail nicely with tourism. And tourism can still work closely with wildlife and parks.&nbsp;

The Commerce Department also needs a better system of interacting with our counties and cities. One of the most common themes I hear from local economic development officials is that business recruitment is better when the Commerce Department is not involved, because they do not understand local priorities. This can be addressed by creating a system of regional councils – with public and private sector voices - to advise the commerce secretary on these issues.&nbsp;

Kansas is in a trying time and economic recovery is the paramount goal of every business leader and public official. There are many ways this can be addressed, but we need a focused agency on our economy and recovery, not just in the short term but in the long term as well. I am more than willing to talk with you more on this subject.&nbsp;

Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576860566850.jpeg" alt="Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By WINK HARTMANDear Governor Kelly,While we may have our disagreements at times about how Kansas is run, I know that we also both want what we believe is best for our state. I have been following some of the changes that you have made to the Department of Commerce and have found many interesting and similar to areas that I have been advocating for in op-eds and social media.&nbsp;I am writing this open letter with some more suggestions for how Kansas can improve our Department of Commerce in order to focus this agency on job creation and growth around our state. While there are many things that go into job growth, including a good tax environment, low electric rates, rural broadband and an educated workforce, Kansas needs a marketing department who can sell why businesses want to come here. Sadly, the state’s Department of Commerce has been lacking and many in our business community and our local governments have seen this.&nbsp;First and foremost, we need to center the Department of Commerce on being an economic development department. No business could survive without a strong marketing department and the State of Kansas is the same. Unfortunately, the Department of Commerce has become a hodge podge of programs that have become of the focus.&nbsp;We need to more workforce development out of the Department of Commerce and into the Department of Labor. Most states house workforce development in the labor department and employment department and it makes sense. Workforce development issues dovetail with the employment aspects of the Department of Labor.&nbsp;Making this move would clear up the amount of time that Commerce Department leaders spend on workforce development and allow them to have a more laser like focus on economic development and marketing our state.&nbsp;Next, we need to move tourism from the Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and place it back in the Commerce Department. If we are to make the Commerce Department a true marketing department for our state, then tourism needs to be in this agency. Tourism is a heavily marketing based agency and combining all of our state’s marketing and branding efforts together makes sense. This is why many states have economic development and tourism under one roof.&nbsp;Tourism is more than just our parks and wildlife. It is our small businesses, our scenic rural communities, our state’s rich history, our artists, our college sports teams. Many existing Commerce Department programs, including for Kansas Main Streets, dovetail nicely with tourism. And tourism can still work closely with wildlife and parks.&nbsp;The Commerce Department also needs a better system of interacting with our counties and cities. One of the most common themes I hear from local economic development officials is that business recruitment is better when the Commerce Department is not involved, because they do not understand local priorities. This can be addressed by creating a system of regional councils – with public and private sector voices - to advise the commerce secretary on these issues.&nbsp;Kansas is in a trying time and economic recovery is the paramount goal of every business leader and public official. There are many ways this can be addressed, but we need a focused agency on our economy and recovery, not just in the short term but in the long term as well. I am more than willing to talk with you more on this subject.&nbsp;Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;

HARTMAN: Focus needs to be on job creation, growth

A small North American insect that can cause damage to your lawn. One way to tell if you have chinch bugs and not drought is if the grass does not green up after it has been watered.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b7thmStU45A"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A small North American insect that can cause damage to your lawn. One way to tell if you have chinch bugs and not drought is if the grass does not green up after it has been watered.

🎥 Green and Growing: Chinch bugs

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Axelson, Miles Axelson, 30, Natoma, was southbound on Norton County Road E12 just south of Kansas 9 highway.

The van crossed the center line and struck a 1992 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Victor Saenz Galindo, 51, Amarillo, Texas head-on.&nbsp;

EMS transported Axelson to Wesley Medical Center. Galindo was not injured. Both driver were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Axelson, Miles Axelson, 30, Natoma, was southbound on Norton County Road E12 just south of Kansas 9 highway.The van crossed the center line and struck a 1992 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Victor Saenz Galindo, 51, Amarillo, Texas head-on.&nbsp;EMS transported Axelson to Wesley Medical Center. Galindo was not injured. Both driver were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man from Natoma hospitalized after head-on crash

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced four new positive cases of COVID-19 in the county since Wednesday.

There are currently 27 active cases, including one active hospitalization, and 103 recovered cases.

Since reporting began, there have been 131 total cases in Ellis County, including one death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced four new positive cases of COVID-19 in the county since Wednesday.There are currently 27 active cases, including one active hospitalization, and 103 recovered cases.Since reporting began, there have been 131 total cases in Ellis County, including one death.

Four new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis Co.

SCOTT CITY, Kan. (AP) — A western Kansas mayor who had not been wearing a mask says he has tested positive for COVID-19. Scott City Mayor Everett Green says he may have caught the virus at a political event for a state senator on July 18.

Green said on Facebook that he tested positive earlier this week. He had what he thought were seasonal allergies for a few weeks but got tested after losing his senses of smell and taste over the weekend. 

Green says it's likely he'll wear a mask after he finishes a 14-day quarantine at home. Scott City is about 36 miles north of Garden City.

SCOTT CITY, Kan. (AP) — A western Kansas mayor who had not been wearing a mask says he has tested positive for COVID-19. Scott City Mayor Everett Green says he may have caught the virus at a political event for a state senator on July 18.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F110422803709390%2Fvideos%2F621327502095022%2F&show_text=0&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Green said on Facebook that he tested positive earlier this week. He had what he thought were seasonal allergies for a few weeks but got tested after losing his senses of smell and taste over the weekend. Green says it's likely he'll wear a mask after he finishes a 14-day quarantine at home. Scott City is about 36 miles north of Garden City.

Western Kan. mayor who declined masks tests positive for virus

It was a wet month for Hays with the city receiving more than 7 inches of rain in July.

The Eagle Media Center received another 0.38 inches of rain between 6 a.m. Thursday and Friday morning.&nbsp;

Official totals were not immediately available from the K-State Ag Research Center.&nbsp;

As of Thursday morning, the Research Center reported that the city had received&nbsp;&nbsp;6.97 inches of rain compared to an average of 3.33 inches for the month July.

Year-to-date moisture recorded at the Research Center as of Thursday morning was 16.62 inches compared to an average moisture of 14.68 inches by the end of July.

The National Weather Service forecasts 20 percent chance of thunderstorms for Hays on Saturday and Sunday nights with otherwise clear skies through Tuesday.

Highs are forecast for the mid-80s Friday and Saturday and the upper 70s Sunday through Tuesday.&nbsp;

Long-term forecasts predict rain chances from 20 percent to 40 percent Tuesday night through Thursday.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIt was a wet month for Hays with the city receiving more than 7 inches of rain in July.The Eagle Media Center received another 0.38 inches of rain between 6 a.m. Thursday and Friday morning.&nbsp;Official totals were not immediately available from the K-State Ag Research Center.&nbsp;As of Thursday morning, the Research Center reported that the city had received&nbsp;&nbsp;6.97 inches of rain compared to an average of 3.33 inches for the month July.Year-to-date moisture recorded at the Research Center as of Thursday morning was 16.62 inches compared to an average moisture of 14.68 inches by the end of July.The National Weather Service forecasts 20 percent chance of thunderstorms for Hays on Saturday and Sunday nights with otherwise clear skies through Tuesday.Highs are forecast for the mid-80s Friday and Saturday and the upper 70s Sunday through Tuesday.&nbsp;Long-term forecasts predict rain chances from 20 percent to 40 percent Tuesday night through Thursday.

Hays ends July with over 7 inches of rain

A Downtown Hays Tradition continues this Saturday. It’s time for some good ol’ fashioned, brick-and-mortar shopping during the 2020 Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale! The sale runs from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (rain or shine) on Main Street and beyond.

Many events have had to adapt or cancel, and this event is no different. Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), believes that by adjusting just a little, our community can still enjoy a fun and safe Sidewalk Sale. This year, the only vendors shoppers will find along city streets are those who already call Downtown home. By limiting the number of outside merchants, DHDC hopes to encourage physical distancing and allow plenty of room for businesses and visitors to spread out.&nbsp;

“DHDC has put significant thought into the safety of business owners and customers alike while planning this event,” Allie Glidewell DHDC Director of Events and Operations said. “The streets will feel a little more empty than usual, but it’s done intentionally to keep our community safe and healthy.”

Also to ensure best safety practices, the Bazaar will not offer kid's crafts and activities this year. Shoppers will also find some participating stores have opted to keep their sales indoors.

Though the event might look different than last year, the Downtown merchants are excited to offer you deals and steals on products from clothing and accessories to discounts on drinks and art classes.

“I have visited with a lot of our business owners and they realize the importance of physically distancing but socially connecting, and feel the sidewalk sale is a great way to do both,” Glidewell said. “This kind of gives us all the opportunity to start fresh. Out with summer products, and in with new trendsetting fall items.”

DHDC requests the publics' help to ensure the safety of all participants and asks that vehicles not be parked in the public parking stalls located along Main Street between 8th and 12th streets after 5am. Some side streets, including parts of 10th and 11th Street, will also be closed, so please be mindful of the Hays Police Department's cones.

&nbsp;Under the Downtown Pavilion, more than 20 Downtown Hays Market vendors will be ready to greet you with local produce, handcrafted baked goods, and artisan products for every taste, style, and recipe. Normal hours of the market are 7:30 to 11:00 am but for this event only, they will also be available from 7:00am to 1:00pm while supplies last.&nbsp;

“With all the events that have had to be cancelled this year, it’s great to see this tradition live on,” Sara Bloom, DHDC Executive Director said. “It’s a great way to support our local, small businesses on The Bricks, and supporting those businesses only unifies and betters the Hays community. We hope to safely welcome lots of faces to Downtown this weekend.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596207699929.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCA Downtown Hays Tradition continues this Saturday. It’s time for some good ol’ fashioned, brick-and-mortar shopping during the 2020 Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale! The sale runs from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (rain or shine) on Main Street and beyond.Many events have had to adapt or cancel, and this event is no different. Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), believes that by adjusting just a little, our community can still enjoy a fun and safe Sidewalk Sale. This year, the only vendors shoppers will find along city streets are those who already call Downtown home. By limiting the number of outside merchants, DHDC hopes to encourage physical distancing and allow plenty of room for businesses and visitors to spread out.&nbsp;“DHDC has put significant thought into the safety of business owners and customers alike while planning this event,” Allie Glidewell DHDC Director of Events and Operations said. “The streets will feel a little more empty than usual, but it’s done intentionally to keep our community safe and healthy.”Also to ensure best safety practices, the Bazaar will not offer kid's crafts and activities this year. Shoppers will also find some participating stores have opted to keep their sales indoors.Though the event might look different than last year, the Downtown merchants are excited to offer you deals and steals on products from clothing and accessories to discounts on drinks and art classes.“I have visited with a lot of our business owners and they realize the importance of physically distancing but socially connecting, and feel the sidewalk sale is a great way to do both,” Glidewell said. “This kind of gives us all the opportunity to start fresh. Out with summer products, and in with new trendsetting fall items.”DHDC requests the publics' help to ensure the safety of all participants and asks that vehicles not be parked in the public parking stalls located along Main Street between 8th and 12th streets after 5am. Some side streets, including parts of 10th and 11th Street, will also be closed, so please be mindful of the Hays Police Department's cones.&nbsp;Under the Downtown Pavilion, more than 20 Downtown Hays Market vendors will be ready to greet you with local produce, handcrafted baked goods, and artisan products for every taste, style, and recipe. Normal hours of the market are 7:30 to 11:00 am but for this event only, they will also be available from 7:00am to 1:00pm while supplies last.&nbsp;“With all the events that have had to be cancelled this year, it’s great to see this tradition live on,” Sara Bloom, DHDC Executive Director said. “It’s a great way to support our local, small businesses on The Bricks, and supporting those businesses only unifies and betters the Hays community. We hope to safely welcome lots of faces to Downtown this weekend.”

Bazaar on The Bricks Sidewalk Sale set for Saturday

Habitat for Humanity announced in a letter to its volunteers Thursday it will be closing the Hays ReStore immediately and indefinitely.

According to the letter, after receiving information from Habitat for Humanity National concerning COVID-19 and visiting with the local Habitat director and the security member from its local board, the decision was made to close the store.

The ReStore closed during the statewide shutdown and only reopened to the public at the beginning of July.&nbsp;

All proceeds from the store support the mission of Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing, advocate for fair and just housing policies, and provide training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.

Hays PostHabitat for Humanity announced in a letter to its volunteers Thursday it will be closing the Hays ReStore immediately and indefinitely.According to the letter, after receiving information from Habitat for Humanity National concerning COVID-19 and visiting with the local Habitat director and the security member from its local board, the decision was made to close the store.The ReStore closed during the statewide shutdown and only reopened to the public at the beginning of July.&nbsp;All proceeds from the store support the mission of Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing, advocate for fair and just housing policies, and provide training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.

Hays ReStore closes because of COVID-19 concerns

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Ellis County Treasurer candidate Sherry Dryden believes her
experience and temperament make her the right person to bring stability to the
office.

Dryden has lived and worked in Ellis County for the
past 39 years and has severed in a variety of roles during that time, including
working in human resources management, project management, serving on the USD
489 school board and as the executive director of two Kansas nonprofit groups.


After serving as the executive director for the United Way
of Ellis County for four years, Dryden most recently has been the executive
director of the Central and Western Kansas Chapter of the American Red Cross and
served in that role for just shy of a year.

Dryden will face Vernon Ruder Jr. and incumbent Lisa Schlegel in Tuesday's Republican primary.

Dryden said working in those positions has allowed her to develop
several skills that are similar to the duties the treasurer performs.

“Everywhere I’ve worked, we’ve always had to work with
budgets,” Dryden said. “Not just establishing the budget, but working with your
various accounts, accounts payables (and) receivables and collections.”

She said that experience will also make it easy for her to
be able to work with the commission to set the treasurer’s department budget
each year.

Dryden also pointed to her work with a finance commission
while the executive director of the United Way as an example of her ability to
make sound financial decisions for Ellis County.

Funds are now allocated through a two-year process that
allows agencies to know exactly how much money they are going to receive,
because Dryden said those funds that are raised are what is allocated to the
agencies.

The agency used to pre-promise funds to the agencies and, if
the United Way failed to raise the necessary funds, agencies were left
scrambling to adjust their budgets.

They also addressed some of their investment issues to develop
a contingency plan to help in years where the money raised may have been less
than expected. 

Dryden said one of the biggest reasons she is running for
the county treasurer position is to restore the office after several years of
disorder.

“I want to restore the treasurer’s department with trust,
transparency, morals, ethics, professionalism and teamwork,” Dryden said. “What
I’ve experienced and what I’ve learned from others I have become frustrated.”

Dryden said she will also stress communication within the
office. She said they have had negative experiences with the treasurer’s
department and she said when speaking with Ellis County voters she believes she
is not alone.

She said she doesn’t blame the treasury staff; she instead
believes the current training lacks in some areas.

“I really feel the treasurer needs to make sure they are
delivering customer service support with their staff,” Dryden said.

“I will be a working treasurer who will be right there
beside staff,” Dryden said. “I want to ensure that I learn every staff’s job
duties and functions.”

If elected, Dryden said  transparency will be a priority for
the office, and she said the treasurer needs to be seen in a positive light.

“At any given time, on any given business day, what are the
records of the finances of the county?” Dryden said. “That needs to be
available upon request. That is critical in ensuring trust and transparency.”

Dryden said she has been talking with treasurers across the
state and wants to implement an open-door policy that many of them have
implemented.

“Having that open-door policy for all is going to be an
asset that can only make this department stronger,” Dryden said.

She said two of the treasurers she has been working with
during the campaign have already volunteered to work with her is she is
elected.

Dryden said she is asked often by Ellis County residents about the very public incident between Ellis County Commissioner Butch Schlyer
and current Treasurer Lisa Schlegel. Schlegel was eventually escorted from the
meeting at Schlyer’s request.

Dryden said she would have never let the situation get out
of hand the way it did.

“I would not have allowed it to escalate to the level that
it did,” Dryden said. “That is key in being about to work through conflict.”

“To me, leadership is actions,” Dryden said. “A full leader
is one that gains trust through their actions, is fully transparent and will
accept feedback and work through any conflict.”

If elected, Dryden would like to create a finance committee
that allows the department to explore financial growth opportunities.

According to Dryden, the goal of the committee would be to “ensure
fair and equitable opportunities for all financial opportunities for all
financial institutions in our area.”

She said the investments must also be reviewed on a regular
basis.

“Are we truly getting the best investments?”

Dryden also wants to treasurer’s office to be involved in
the grant process in Ellis County.

She believes that her experience working with grants in her
prior positions will be an asset to the county.

Dryden said she believes the treasurer’s office can help
administer grants that Ellis County has received but also can work with other
positions to help with financial planning for grant funds.

“I really think the treasurer’s office should be a very
strong partner in helping with all grants in Ellis County,” Dryden said.

Schlegel has attacked Dryden
because her husband worked for the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, but Dryden
confirmed that he retired from the department in June.

Dryden has also been attacked for her relationship with
Deputy County Clerk Bobbie Dreiling. Dreiling is the only Republican
candidate for county clerk. 

Dryden shrugged off both allegations and said she has only
known Dreiling for a few months. 

On social media, Schlegel has also claimed that Dreiling helped Dryden
falsify the form in which candidates obtain signatures to file for office.
Dryden strongly denies the accusation and said even though she collected more
than 300 signatures, when she only needed 250, she elected to pay to filing fee
instead of continuing to collect signatures because of the governor’s statewide
lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As for Schlegel’s attacks, Dyden said she hasn’t really paid
attention to them and said she does not need to defend herself. 

“People who would
rather spend their time pointing their fingers at non-pertinent information shows
that they would rather point fingers than run their department,” Dryden said.

Dryden added, “I feel my rounded experience would be able to
re-establish pride in the department for Ellis County.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586216031348.jpeg" alt="Dryden" />
 <figcaption>Dryden</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostEllis County Treasurer candidate Sherry Dryden believes her
experience and temperament make her the right person to bring stability to the
office.Dryden has lived and worked in Ellis County for the
past 39 years and has severed in a variety of roles during that time, including
working in human resources management, project management, serving on the USD
489 school board and as the executive director of two Kansas nonprofit groups.
After serving as the executive director for the United Way
of Ellis County for four years, Dryden most recently has been the executive
director of the Central and Western Kansas Chapter of the American Red Cross and
served in that role for just shy of a year.Dryden will face Vernon Ruder Jr. and incumbent Lisa Schlegel in Tuesday's Republican primary.Dryden said working in those positions has allowed her to develop
several skills that are similar to the duties the treasurer performs.“Everywhere I’ve worked, we’ve always had to work with
budgets,” Dryden said. “Not just establishing the budget, but working with your
various accounts, accounts payables (and) receivables and collections.”She said that experience will also make it easy for her to
be able to work with the commission to set the treasurer’s department budget
each year.Dryden also pointed to her work with a finance commission
while the executive director of the United Way as an example of her ability to
make sound financial decisions for Ellis County.Funds are now allocated through a two-year process that
allows agencies to know exactly how much money they are going to receive,
because Dryden said those funds that are raised are what is allocated to the
agencies.The agency used to pre-promise funds to the agencies and, if
the United Way failed to raise the necessary funds, agencies were left
scrambling to adjust their budgets.They also addressed some of their investment issues to develop
a contingency plan to help in years where the money raised may have been less
than expected. Dryden said one of the biggest reasons she is running for
the county treasurer position is to restore the office after several years of
disorder.“I want to restore the treasurer’s department with trust,
transparency, morals, ethics, professionalism and teamwork,” Dryden said. “What
I’ve experienced and what I’ve learned from others I have become frustrated.”Dryden said she will also stress communication within the
office. She said they have had negative experiences with the treasurer’s
department and she said when speaking with Ellis County voters she believes she
is not alone.She said she doesn’t blame the treasury staff; she instead
believes the current training lacks in some areas.“I really feel the treasurer needs to make sure they are
delivering customer service support with their staff,” Dryden said.“I will be a working treasurer who will be right there
beside staff,” Dryden said. “I want to ensure that I learn every staff’s job
duties and functions.”If elected, Dryden said transparency will be a priority for
the office, and she said the treasurer needs to be seen in a positive light.“At any given time, on any given business day, what are the
records of the finances of the county?” Dryden said. “That needs to be
available upon request. That is critical in ensuring trust and transparency.”Dryden said she has been talking with treasurers across the
state and wants to implement an open-door policy that many of them have
implemented.“Having that open-door policy for all is going to be an
asset that can only make this department stronger,” Dryden said.She said two of the treasurers she has been working with
during the campaign have already volunteered to work with her is she is
elected.Dryden said she is asked often by Ellis County residents about the very public incident between Ellis County Commissioner Butch Schlyer
and current Treasurer Lisa Schlegel. Schlegel was eventually escorted from the
meeting at Schlyer’s request.Dryden said she would have never let the situation get out
of hand the way it did.“I would not have allowed it to escalate to the level that
it did,” Dryden said. “That is key in being about to work through conflict.”“To me, leadership is actions,” Dryden said. “A full leader
is one that gains trust through their actions, is fully transparent and will
accept feedback and work through any conflict.”If elected, Dryden would like to create a finance committee
that allows the department to explore financial growth opportunities.According to Dryden, the goal of the committee would be to “ensure
fair and equitable opportunities for all financial opportunities for all
financial institutions in our area.”She said the investments must also be reviewed on a regular
basis.“Are we truly getting the best investments?”Dryden also wants to treasurer’s office to be involved in
the grant process in Ellis County.She believes that her experience working with grants in her
prior positions will be an asset to the county.Dryden said she believes the treasurer’s office can help
administer grants that Ellis County has received but also can work with other
positions to help with financial planning for grant funds.“I really think the treasurer’s office should be a very
strong partner in helping with all grants in Ellis County,” Dryden said.Schlegel has attacked Dryden
because her husband worked for the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, but Dryden
confirmed that he retired from the department in June.Dryden has also been attacked for her relationship with
Deputy County Clerk Bobbie Dreiling. Dreiling is the only Republican
candidate for county clerk. Dryden shrugged off both allegations and said she has only
known Dreiling for a few months. On social media, Schlegel has also claimed that Dreiling helped Dryden
falsify the form in which candidates obtain signatures to file for office.
Dryden strongly denies the accusation and said even though she collected more
than 300 signatures, when she only needed 250, she elected to pay to filing fee
instead of continuing to collect signatures because of the governor’s statewide
lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.As for Schlegel’s attacks, Dyden said she hasn’t really paid
attention to them and said she does not need to defend herself. “People who would
rather spend their time pointing their fingers at non-pertinent information shows
that they would rather point fingers than run their department,” Dryden said.Dryden added, “I feel my rounded experience would be able to
re-establish pride in the department for Ellis County.”

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Treasurer: Sherry Dryden

Ellis County Treasurer candidate Vernon Ruder Jr.
believes his experience as the head of the county solid waste division and his
willingness to help other departments succeed make him a great candidate for the
office.

As the solid waste supervisor, Ruder has been in
charge of the Ellis County landfill for the past three years. Prior to that, Ruder also worked as a financial advisor and as a district manager for E.A.
Sween Co.

Ruder said he decided to run for the treasurer’s position
after noticing several issues with the treasurer’s office. Among those are the
turnover rate and amount of money spent in the office.

“I feel like I could come in and decrease spending and
increase efficiencies,” Ruder said.

Ruder, Sherry Dryden and incumbent Lisa Schlegel square off in Tuesday's Republican primary.

As the solid waste supervisor, Ruder is in charge of the
landfill’s $1.2 million budget. The landfill is an enterprise and ran solely on
the fees that it collects. The landfill does not receive taxpayer money to
fund its operations.

“I run it like it’s my money,” Ruder said. “That’s the way
it should be.”

Ruder said he also believes the financial background and
the skills he has developed running the solid waste division would help him
succeed in the position.

“I know for a fact that I can decrease spending by thousands
of dollars within that department,” Ruder said.

He said there are several areas where he would like to see
the department increase efficiencies.

Among the examples of things Ruder would like to implement
would be a kiosk that allowed residents to pay their tags and taxes after hours
because the administrative office closes at 4 p.m. when a lot of people don’t
get off work until 5 p.m. or later. He would also like to implement an app that
tells visitors to the office what the wait time is at the office.

Ruder also believes he will have several ideas to take in
front of the commission once he takes office, if elected.

He also believes that he will be able to help the county in
a greater capacity is elected treasurer.

“Working for the county, I feel like I have experience in
front of the commissioners giving the budget,” Ruder said.

Ruder said he gets
along with all of the other department heads and he believes that added
level of communication will also be a benefit to the treasurer’s department and
to Ellis County.

“Most departments talk to each other but I feel like that
department, the lack of communication kind of hurts,” Ruder said. “Working with
the county, I feel as though I can’t come up to them (members of the
treasurer’s office) and speak about ‘Where is my money invested at?’ ”

He said if elected he will present the county commission
with a monthly financial report, similar to the city of Hays.

“It will explain, here’s the money, here’s what we have it
invested in,” Ruder said. “I know a lot of people wouldn’t question anything if
it's all laid out on the table. That would be so much easier.”

Ruder said he also believes he has the necessary
communication skills to run the office.

Ruder also said he would be a “working elected
official.”

“When the doors are open, I will always be there,” Ruder
said. “If you have a team leader, the rest of the staff will feel more like a team.”

He added his goal will be to know how to do every job within
the department, similar to how he operates the landfill.

“I want to be there so I know exactly what this department
doing,” Ruder said. “If you know your whole job, you are going to be able to run
it smoother.”

Ruder said he has heard from staff and some of the county
commissioners that that is one thing the department is currently lacking, a
person who is putting in the time in the office.

“I will work,” Ruder said. “I’m probably one of the crazy
people that will work more than I have too.”

Ruder also said he believes there is a current lack of
professionalism in the department. He pointed to the very public disagreements
current treasurer Lisa Schlegel has had with multiple commissioners.

“I solve problems and I don’t create conflict," Ruder said.
“There’s no reason to have conflict. Let’s be professional about it.”

Schlegel has attacked Ruder for the fact that his son, Mason, also works for the county and serves on the Hays City Commission. Mason is the
Environmental Planning Supervisor.

Ruder said he and Mason work together as division heads
within the public works department but there is no nepotism as Schlegel claims, he said.

Public Works Director Bill Ring said there are policies are
in place so that a family member cannot be in charge of another member of their
family. Both Vernon and Mason are on an equal level as division heads.

On social media, Schlegel has also accused Vernon Ruder and Ring of
attempting to cover-up wrongdoing in a September 2019 fire that destroyed a
building and backhoe at the landfill.

In her posting, Schlegel claimed someone was allowed to enter the
landfill after hours and put flammable rags in a bin that started the fire.

An official investigation determined that the rags were
placed in the bin just after 4 p.m. Sept. 26, and they spontaneously
combusted around 4 a.m. the next day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589824071248.png" alt="Ruder" />
 <figcaption>Ruder</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostEllis County Treasurer candidate Vernon Ruder Jr.
believes his experience as the head of the county solid waste division and his
willingness to help other departments succeed make him a great candidate for the
office.As the solid waste supervisor, Ruder has been in
charge of the Ellis County landfill for the past three years. Prior to that, Ruder also worked as a financial advisor and as a district manager for E.A.
Sween Co.Ruder said he decided to run for the treasurer’s position
after noticing several issues with the treasurer’s office. Among those are the
turnover rate and amount of money spent in the office.“I feel like I could come in and decrease spending and
increase efficiencies,” Ruder said.Ruder, Sherry Dryden and incumbent Lisa Schlegel square off in Tuesday's Republican primary.As the solid waste supervisor, Ruder is in charge of the
landfill’s $1.2 million budget. The landfill is an enterprise and ran solely on
the fees that it collects. The landfill does not receive taxpayer money to
fund its operations.“I run it like it’s my money,” Ruder said. “That’s the way
it should be.”Ruder said he also believes the financial background and
the skills he has developed running the solid waste division would help him
succeed in the position.“I know for a fact that I can decrease spending by thousands
of dollars within that department,” Ruder said.He said there are several areas where he would like to see
the department increase efficiencies.Among the examples of things Ruder would like to implement
would be a kiosk that allowed residents to pay their tags and taxes after hours
because the administrative office closes at 4 p.m. when a lot of people don’t
get off work until 5 p.m. or later. He would also like to implement an app that
tells visitors to the office what the wait time is at the office.Ruder also believes he will have several ideas to take in
front of the commission once he takes office, if elected.He also believes that he will be able to help the county in
a greater capacity is elected treasurer.“Working for the county, I feel like I have experience in
front of the commissioners giving the budget,” Ruder said.Ruder said he gets
along with all of the other department heads and he believes that added
level of communication will also be a benefit to the treasurer’s department and
to Ellis County.“Most departments talk to each other but I feel like that
department, the lack of communication kind of hurts,” Ruder said. “Working with
the county, I feel as though I can’t come up to them (members of the
treasurer’s office) and speak about ‘Where is my money invested at?’ ”He said if elected he will present the county commission
with a monthly financial report, similar to the city of Hays.“It will explain, here’s the money, here’s what we have it
invested in,” Ruder said. “I know a lot of people wouldn’t question anything if
it's all laid out on the table. That would be so much easier.”Ruder said he also believes he has the necessary
communication skills to run the office.Ruder also said he would be a “working elected
official.”“When the doors are open, I will always be there,” Ruder
said. “If you have a team leader, the rest of the staff will feel more like a team.”He added his goal will be to know how to do every job within
the department, similar to how he operates the landfill.“I want to be there so I know exactly what this department
doing,” Ruder said. “If you know your whole job, you are going to be able to run
it smoother.”Ruder said he has heard from staff and some of the county
commissioners that that is one thing the department is currently lacking, a
person who is putting in the time in the office.“I will work,” Ruder said. “I’m probably one of the crazy
people that will work more than I have too.”Ruder also said he believes there is a current lack of
professionalism in the department. He pointed to the very public disagreements
current treasurer Lisa Schlegel has had with multiple commissioners.“I solve problems and I don’t create conflict," Ruder said.
“There’s no reason to have conflict. Let’s be professional about it.”Schlegel has attacked Ruder for the fact that his son, Mason, also works for the county and serves on the Hays City Commission. Mason is the
Environmental Planning Supervisor.Ruder said he and Mason work together as division heads
within the public works department but there is no nepotism as Schlegel claims, he said.Public Works Director Bill Ring said there are policies are
in place so that a family member cannot be in charge of another member of their
family. Both Vernon and Mason are on an equal level as division heads.On social media, Schlegel has also accused Vernon Ruder and Ring of
attempting to cover-up wrongdoing in a September 2019 fire that destroyed a
building and backhoe at the landfill.In her posting, Schlegel claimed someone was allowed to enter the
landfill after hours and put flammable rags in a bin that started the fire.An official investigation determined that the rags were
placed in the bin just after 4 p.m. Sept. 26, and they spontaneously
combusted around 4 a.m. the next day.Ring said insurance covered the cost of the building and the
backhoe.Ring stressed that no taxpayer funds went to those updates
because as an enterprise the landfill does not get taxpayer funds. It is run
completely on fees paid at the landfill.Ruder said Schlegel is creating these allegations because,
“she can’t find anything on me.”“I don’t know where she is coming up with all her stories,”
Ruder. “If I wasn’t running against her, there would be nothing brought up.”

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