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.

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.”

<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.”

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Treasurer: Vernon Ruder Jr.

Ellis County Treasurer Lisa Schlegel said the continued
successes she has brought to the office are proof she’s the right candidate in
her bid for re-election.

Schlegel, who was elected in 2016, began serving his first
term in October 2017. 

Prior to that, Schlegel worked in banking at Fort Hays
State University and at the University of Kansas.

Schlegel said since she took office the treasurer’s
department has delivered “unprecedent success.”

“I have performed all the statutory duties of treasurer with
unprecedented excellence,” Schlegel said. “We have unprecedented tax collection
percentages, new tax collection methods, such as stop codes on motor vehicle (and)
oil garnishments.”

Schlegel also touted her ability to negotiate better
interest rates with the banks.

“I have unprecedented interest income, contractual
negotiations with banking industries that are the best they’ve ever been, and
I’m always updating my interest income agreements and looking for the best deal
we can get,” Schlegel said.

She also added that she has renegotiated the interest
on the county’s idle funds account for a higher return on investment.

If re-elected, Schlegel said she will continue to implement many of the policies she
said has made the department run more efficiently.

“I am the first office in the county to voluntarily cut
operating hours and the first county office eliminate a full-time deputy,”
Schlegel said, noting the move saved the county more than $60,000.

“My expenditures in operating the treasury are still lower
than the expenditures were in 2016,” Schlegel said, “so we’re doing more while
spending less.”

Schlegel said that she is “excited to just kind of maintain”
the changes she has implemented in the department if re-elected.

“Everyone is finally cross trained. It’s the first
department that’s cross trained in the county,” Schlegel said. “There’s no
duties that the county’s required statutorily to do that only one person knows
how to do.”

Schlegel also has implemented an extension outreach effort
through the department’s newsletter.

“I am the first county treasurer to make myself transparent
and available to the taxpayers by informing them of what’s going on in
financially,” Schlegel said. 

She said continuing to produce the newsletter and make it
and more information about the county government available through the
treasurer’s website will be a priority if she is re-elected.

“I want to see if we can do a little more with citizen
engagement and communication,” Schlegel said. “I really want to keep people
more engaged and informed of what’s going on at the county as a hole but then
also the treasury.”

Schlegel also plans to be more hands-on if re-elected. 

“Now that I’ve spent my first term learning about all the
things that we could do better and implementing programs that have always existed
but the treasury hasn’t always implemented, I’d like to play maybe a more
hands-on part in doing some of the actual work,” Schlegel said.

“Maybe sitting up front and doing renewals occasionally,”
she said. “I miss public contact in that way.”

Schlegel has had several very public run-ins with members of
the county commission during her time in office. Most recently, she was removed
from a budget hearing after getting into an argument with commission chair
Butch Schlyer.

She acknowledged the incidents have made it more difficult to do the job of treasurer but said, “these clashes have
everything to do with the commissioners and nothing to do with me.”

“The challenges that have come about have arisen because the
county officials around here don’t understand or don’t adhere to the hierarchy
of power,” Schlegel said. “A county treasurer and a county commissioner are
equal on the hierarchy.”

Schlegel said she believes the current group of county
commissioners are working to get her out of office.

“Because I’m not a good ol’ boy. Because I’m don’t keep
quiet,” Schlegel said. “Because if I have questions about why the public was
lied to about when the landfill burnt down, about the time that it occurred and
my questions aren’t answered. I don’t quit asking them.

“I’m sure what they’ll fight for, if I don’t win, is to try
to get me to resign a year early, and that’s never going to happen,” Schlegel
said. “They’ll have to drag my dead body out this door.”

On social media, Schlegel has attacked one of her opponents in the treasurer
race, Solid Waste Supervisor Vernon Ruder Jr., claiming he and Public Works
Director Bill Ring covered up a September fire that destroyed a landfill
building and a backhoe.

In her posting on her campaign's re-election Facebook page, Schlegel claimed someone was allowed to enter the landfill
after hours and place rags in a bin, which later caught fire.

An investigation of the fire proved no wrongdoing after
officials found that rags covered in wood stain were improperly disposed of
late in the afternoon on Sept. 26. The rags spontaneously combusted several
hours later, causing the building on fire, according to the investigation.

Schlegel’s claim that someone accessed the landfill after
hours also runs contrary to evidence.

In security footage obtained by Hays Post, a man is seen
dropping off the rags at 4:02 p.m. Sept.
26. Footage shows the fire erupting several hours later, at approximately 4 a.m.

With the loss of a backhoe in the fire, Ring said the county rented a backhoe while waiting on a new one. The rental and two separate inspections
of the backhoe by the equipment dealer resulted in a bill of just less than $5,000.

Ring said that the insurance company covered all of the
expenses associated with the backhoe and paid to replace the one lost in the
fire.

On social media, Schlegel incorrectly alleged that taxpayer funds paid to
replace the building and backhoe.

Ring said the landfills insurance paid to replace both the
building and the backhoe. He also pointed out that the landfill is an
enterprise fund and no taxpayer funds go to the landfill. 

Schlegel said the reason she wanted to be the treasurer was
because the position has the power to “see everything.”

“We’re in a budget crunch, so I am looking at things extra
closely? Yeah,” Schlegel said. “Not only in my own budget, in the county’s
expenditures as a whole when they all come across my desk.”

Ellis County Administrator J.D. Cox said, after consulting with counselor
Bill Jeter, said it is not the treasurer’s duty, as Schlegel claims, to weigh in on
expenditures that have been approved by the commission and the administrator.

Schlegel has also raised concerns about the connection her
opponents have to local government in Ellis County.

Ruder’s son, Mason, is the county’s environment planning supervisor.
Sherry Dryden’s husband had worked for the sheriff’s department until retiring
in June.

“When they (the county commission) give you pushback and
your son works for a department, where they are literally his boss, you will
comply,” Schlegel said. “That makes a county official beholden to special
interests other than those of the citizens.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584719419709.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostEllis County Treasurer Lisa Schlegel said the continued
successes she has brought to the office are proof she’s the right candidate in
her bid for re-election.Schlegel, who was elected in 2016, began serving his first
term in October 2017. Prior to that, Schlegel worked in banking at Fort Hays
State University and at the University of Kansas.Schlegel said since she took office the treasurer’s
department has delivered “unprecedent success.”“I have performed all the statutory duties of treasurer with
unprecedented excellence,” Schlegel said. “We have unprecedented tax collection
percentages, new tax collection methods, such as stop codes on motor vehicle (and)
oil garnishments.”Schlegel also touted her ability to negotiate better
interest rates with the banks.“I have unprecedented interest income, contractual
negotiations with banking industries that are the best they’ve ever been, and
I’m always updating my interest income agreements and looking for the best deal
we can get,” Schlegel said.She also added that she has renegotiated the interest
on the county’s idle funds account for a higher return on investment.If re-elected, Schlegel said she will continue to implement many of the policies she
said has made the department run more efficiently.“I am the first office in the county to voluntarily cut
operating hours and the first county office eliminate a full-time deputy,”
Schlegel said, noting the move saved the county more than $60,000.“My expenditures in operating the treasury are still lower
than the expenditures were in 2016,” Schlegel said, “so we’re doing more while
spending less.”Schlegel said that she is “excited to just kind of maintain”
the changes she has implemented in the department if re-elected.“Everyone is finally cross trained. It’s the first
department that’s cross trained in the county,” Schlegel said. “There’s no
duties that the county’s required statutorily to do that only one person knows
how to do.”Schlegel also has implemented an extension outreach effort
through the department’s newsletter.“I am the first county treasurer to make myself transparent
and available to the taxpayers by informing them of what’s going on in
financially,” Schlegel said. She said continuing to produce the newsletter and make it
and more information about the county government available through the
treasurer’s website will be a priority if she is re-elected.“I want to see if we can do a little more with citizen
engagement and communication,” Schlegel said. “I really want to keep people
more engaged and informed of what’s going on at the county as a hole but then
also the treasury.”Schlegel also plans to be more hands-on if re-elected. “Now that I’ve spent my first term learning about all the
things that we could do better and implementing programs that have always existed
but the treasury hasn’t always implemented, I’d like to play maybe a more
hands-on part in doing some of the actual work,” Schlegel said.“Maybe sitting up front and doing renewals occasionally,”
she said. “I miss public contact in that way.”Schlegel has had several very public run-ins with members of
the county commission during her time in office. Most recently, she was removed
from a budget hearing after getting into an argument with commission chair
Butch Schlyer.She acknowledged the incidents have made it more difficult to do the job of treasurer but said, “these clashes have
everything to do with the commissioners and nothing to do with me.”“The challenges that have come about have arisen because the
county officials around here don’t understand or don’t adhere to the hierarchy
of power,” Schlegel said. “A county treasurer and a county commissioner are
equal on the hierarchy.”Schlegel said she believes the current group of county
commissioners are working to get her out of office.“Because I’m not a good ol’ boy. Because I’m don’t keep
quiet,” Schlegel said. “Because if I have questions about why the public was
lied to about when the landfill burnt down, about the time that it occurred and
my questions aren’t answered. I don’t quit asking them.“I’m sure what they’ll fight for, if I don’t win, is to try
to get me to resign a year early, and that’s never going to happen,” Schlegel
said. “They’ll have to drag my dead body out this door.”On social media, Schlegel has attacked one of her opponents in the treasurer
race, Solid Waste Supervisor Vernon Ruder Jr., claiming he and Public Works
Director Bill Ring covered up a September fire that destroyed a landfill
building and a backhoe.In her posting on her campaign's re-election Facebook page, Schlegel claimed someone was allowed to enter the landfill
after hours and place rags in a bin, which later caught fire.An investigation of the fire proved no wrongdoing after
officials found that rags covered in wood stain were improperly disposed of
late in the afternoon on Sept. 26. The rags spontaneously combusted several
hours later, causing the building on fire, according to the investigation.Schlegel’s claim that someone accessed the landfill after
hours also runs contrary to evidence.In security footage obtained by Hays Post, a man is seen
dropping off the rags at 4:02 p.m. Sept.
26. Footage shows the fire erupting several hours later, at approximately 4 a.m.With the loss of a backhoe in the fire, Ring said the county rented a backhoe while waiting on a new one. The rental and two separate inspections
of the backhoe by the equipment dealer resulted in a bill of just less than $5,000.Ring said that the insurance company covered all of the
expenses associated with the backhoe and paid to replace the one lost in the
fire.On social media, Schlegel incorrectly alleged that taxpayer funds paid to
replace the building and backhoe.Ring said the landfills insurance paid to replace both the
building and the backhoe. He also pointed out that the landfill is an
enterprise fund and no taxpayer funds go to the landfill. Schlegel said the reason she wanted to be the treasurer was
because the position has the power to “see everything.”“We’re in a budget crunch, so I am looking at things extra
closely? Yeah,” Schlegel said. “Not only in my own budget, in the county’s
expenditures as a whole when they all come across my desk.”Ellis County Administrator J.D. Cox said, after consulting with counselor
Bill Jeter, said it is not the treasurer’s duty, as Schlegel claims, to weigh in on
expenditures that have been approved by the commission and the administrator.Schlegel has also raised concerns about the connection her
opponents have to local government in Ellis County.Ruder’s son, Mason, is the county’s environment planning supervisor.
Sherry Dryden’s husband had worked for the sheriff’s department until retiring
in June.“When they (the county commission) give you pushback and
your son works for a department, where they are literally his boss, you will
comply,” Schlegel said. “That makes a county official beholden to special
interests other than those of the citizens.”

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Treasurer: Lisa Schlegel

WICHITA, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A California man pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court in Wichita to trafficking in fentanyl and heroin, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

&nbsp;Mauricio Canas, 24, Bermuda Dunes, Calif., pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation in furtherance of drug trafficking and one count of using a phone in furtherance of drug trafficking. In his plea, he admitted law enforcement officers stopped his car in Thomas County for a traffic violation. 

In the car, they found more than 9 pounds of fentanyl and more than 8 pounds of heroin.

Investigators learned Canas was transporting the drugs from California to New York for distribution when he passed through Kansas. He used a phone to communicate with his contacts in New York.

Sentencing is set for Oct. 22. He could face a penalty of up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the transportation charge and up to four years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other count.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596199613983.png" alt="Canas remains in custody in Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Canas remains in custody in Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A California man pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court in Wichita to trafficking in fentanyl and heroin, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.&nbsp;Mauricio Canas, 24, Bermuda Dunes, Calif., pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation in furtherance of drug trafficking and one count of using a phone in furtherance of drug trafficking. In his plea, he admitted law enforcement officers stopped his car in Thomas County for a traffic violation. In the car, they found more than 9 pounds of fentanyl and more than 8 pounds of heroin.Investigators learned Canas was transporting the drugs from California to New York for distribution when he passed through Kansas. He used a phone to communicate with his contacts in New York.Sentencing is set for Oct. 22. He could face a penalty of up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the transportation charge and up to four years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other count.

Car stop in NW Kansas  uncovered fentanyl, heroin

Elections work best when campaigns highlight policy contrasts for voters. As the Republican primary for Senate in Kansas closes, this election has been a missed opportunity to discuss policy and force candidates on record about their policy views.&nbsp;

On the issues that have received the most campaign attention, meaningful policy differences between the major Republican candidates—Bob Hamilton, Kris Kobach, and Roger Marshall—just aren’t there. Abortion, LGBT rights, guns, or masks, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In focusing on areas of consensus, the campaign has missed an opportunity to actually clarify the choice for voters. What are candidate differences on other matters where past statements or actions suggest disagreement? Are there policy differences on issues that the campaign has not highlighted?&nbsp;

Many people thought Marshall was a moderate when he first went to Congress. He ousted ultra conservative Representative Tim Huelskamp in 2016. Many of the same folks who championed moderate Republicans in that year’s anti-Sam Brownback wave also reveled in Marshall’s win.&nbsp;

But, Marshall has shown that he is more conservative than many thought. The most moderate thing about him may be that he seems a reliable vote for Republican leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If most Republicans are supporting a compromise spending bill, for example, Marshall seems to follow leadership on those votes, rather than casting an ideological protest vote or opting for unrealistic conservative fiscal policy as many very conservative House Republicans sometimes do. This seems to be what earns Marshall his less than perfect ratings from groups like Club for Growth or American Conservative Union.&nbsp;

That is a substantive point that this campaign has glossed over. The DC Republican “establishment” prefers Marshall over Kobach, judging from statements and PAC spending. Would Kobach act differently than Marshall? Would he play nice with Republican leaders on fiscal votes and more, or would he be a conservative headache for them like Huelskamp often was?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Immigration is another area of potential difference that has been underplayed. This issue is central to Kobach’s brand. He is about as conservative on immigration as possible, and has been an immigration advisor to President Trump.&nbsp;

In Congress, Marshall has supported Trump on immigration, but past statements suggest Marshall is more moderate here. Regarding undocumented immigrants, he told the&nbsp;Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;in 2015: "There has to be a pathway to at least have a job. I'm not ready to jump on the amnesty bandwagon just yet, but we need to find a way to get these people into the system." Marshall added: “"We make it so hard for good people to become citizens.”&nbsp;

This is a difference worth more attention than it has gotten, especially on a major issue that will outlast the Trump presidency.&nbsp;

Beyond that, think about all of the issues where this campaign hasn’t clearly explored candidate positions, especially for Kobach and Hamilton who lack legislative records. Russia. NATO. Free trade. Health care policy. Covid policy. Numerous civil liberties issues. Energy. Platitudes aren’t policy.&nbsp;

Is it unfortunate that this primary hasn’t treated Kansas voters to a deeper conversation about issues. Instead, we get sexy filler and symbolism. Did Marshall get special treatment from prosecutors in his 2008 conviction? Is Kobach electable or tied to white nationalists? Is Hamilton secretly pro-transgender? If you’re a Kansas Republican looking for more, don’t feel bad if you’re still hungry come primary day.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593101597372.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Elections work best when campaigns highlight policy contrasts for voters. As the Republican primary for Senate in Kansas closes, this election has been a missed opportunity to discuss policy and force candidates on record about their policy views.&nbsp;On the issues that have received the most campaign attention, meaningful policy differences between the major Republican candidates—Bob Hamilton, Kris Kobach, and Roger Marshall—just aren’t there. Abortion, LGBT rights, guns, or masks, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;In focusing on areas of consensus, the campaign has missed an opportunity to actually clarify the choice for voters. What are candidate differences on other matters where past statements or actions suggest disagreement? Are there policy differences on issues that the campaign has not highlighted?&nbsp;Many people thought Marshall was a moderate when he first went to Congress. He ousted ultra conservative Representative Tim Huelskamp in 2016. Many of the same folks who championed moderate Republicans in that year’s anti-Sam Brownback wave also reveled in Marshall’s win.&nbsp;But, Marshall has shown that he is more conservative than many thought. The most moderate thing about him may be that he seems a reliable vote for Republican leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;If most Republicans are supporting a compromise spending bill, for example, Marshall seems to follow leadership on those votes, rather than casting an ideological protest vote or opting for unrealistic conservative fiscal policy as many very conservative House Republicans sometimes do. This seems to be what earns Marshall his less than perfect ratings from groups like Club for Growth or American Conservative Union.&nbsp;That is a substantive point that this campaign has glossed over. The DC Republican “establishment” prefers Marshall over Kobach, judging from statements and PAC spending. Would Kobach act differently than Marshall? Would he play nice with Republican leaders on fiscal votes and more, or would he be a conservative headache for them like Huelskamp often was?&nbsp;&nbsp;Immigration is another area of potential difference that has been underplayed. This issue is central to Kobach’s brand. He is about as conservative on immigration as possible, and has been an immigration advisor to President Trump.&nbsp;In Congress, Marshall has supported Trump on immigration, but past statements suggest Marshall is more moderate here. Regarding undocumented immigrants, he told the&nbsp;Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;in 2015: "There has to be a pathway to at least have a job. I'm not ready to jump on the amnesty bandwagon just yet, but we need to find a way to get these people into the system." Marshall added: “"We make it so hard for good people to become citizens.”&nbsp;This is a difference worth more attention than it has gotten, especially on a major issue that will outlast the Trump presidency.&nbsp;Beyond that, think about all of the issues where this campaign hasn’t clearly explored candidate positions, especially for Kobach and Hamilton who lack legislative records. Russia. NATO. Free trade. Health care policy. Covid policy. Numerous civil liberties issues. Energy. Platitudes aren’t policy.&nbsp;Is it unfortunate that this primary hasn’t treated Kansas voters to a deeper conversation about issues. Instead, we get sexy filler and symbolism. Did Marshall get special treatment from prosecutors in his 2008 conviction? Is Kobach electable or tied to white nationalists? Is Hamilton secretly pro-transgender? If you’re a Kansas Republican looking for more, don’t feel bad if you’re still hungry come primary day.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: GOP primary for U.S. Senate a voter injustice 

PHILLIPSBURG – For Kelly Forell, rodeoing in Phillipsburg is a family affair.&nbsp;

The barrel racer, a resident of Victoria, Kansas, is the wife of Guy Forell, a former bull rider who rode bulls at Kansas Biggest Rodeo. Kelly’s late father-in-law, Bud Forell, rode bareback horses and steer wrestled there in the 1950s through the 1980s. And Guy’s sister, Deb Forell Christy, also a barrel racer, has run barrels in Philipsburg for a dozen years or more.

For Kelly, marrying into the Forell family was not her first introduction to rodeo. She competed in gymkhanas, beginning when she was two years old. A student at Colby Community College, she began barrel racing in collegiate rodeo. Two years later, she was a student at Kansas State University, with a degree in animal science.

While in Colby, she caught the eye of the CCC rodeo coach, Guy Forell. The two dated, and married in 1991.&nbsp;

They moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., where the couple worked for the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). She was instrumental in helping switch the PRCA’s entry system for contestants entering rodeos from paper to computer, and helped with marketing as well.&nbsp;

In 1992, the couple moved to Alva, Okla., where Kelly obtained her CPA license and worked as an accountant. She owned her own firm for ten years. They raised three children: Cody, and twins Tyler and Bailey. The kids junior rodeoed, with daughter Bailey winning the 2014 National Little Britches barrel racing title.

Two years ago, Kelly had a bout with breast cancer. She had merged her accounting practice with another firm, and took off two months to fight the cancer. When she returned to work, her job had been eliminated. So she found a position as chief financial officer at High Plains Farm Credit in Hays, and she and Guy moved back to her hometown.&nbsp;

Now that her kids are grown, she is back to barrel racing. Three years ago, she bought a mare named Emmy and has seen some success with her, qualifying for the 2018 American Rodeo semi-finals.

She will be aboard Emmy when she runs in Phillipsburg on July 30. In addition to Phillipsburg, Forell will compete in Dodge City over the weekend. Guy, retired from riding bulls and now as president of Farmers Credit Union in Hays, is “my driver and stable boy,” she joked.&nbsp;

Forell will have another role in Phillipsburg this weekend: burger server for the barbecue hosted by High Plains Farm Credit. The barbecue, held July 30, is free to all ticket holders. As a Farm Credit employee, she volunteers her time with the organization.&nbsp;

In addition to competing in rodeo, she’s held other roles, like National Miss College Rodeo queen in 1989-90 and Miss Rodeo Kansas a year later. She has secretaried and timed rodeos, and helped with the office staff for the World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA) in 2019.&nbsp;

And she’s working on horses for the next generation of Forells. Her daughter has requested that mom get three or four barrel horses ready for her, when she’s out of college. “I think that might be my next major project,” Kelly said.&nbsp;

She loves competing in Phillipsburg, as a part of the Forell family. “I’m proud to carry on the Forell family tradition. I’m honored to be able to compete there and continue to represent the family, even though I married into it.”

The 91st&nbsp;edition of Kansas Biggest Rodeo kicks off July 30 and runs through August 1, with performances nightly at 8 pm. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1aBDBXoA2RRqEbLcuu-ypgI6-E8MF_uaU-eAgCJAYZ7k-645360059&amp;key=YAMMID-55247397&amp;link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.KansasBiggestRodeo.com">www.KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg (685 Third Street.) For more information, visit the website or call 785.543.2448.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595859974801.jpeg" alt="Kelly Forell, Victoria, Kan., will barrel race at the Phillipsburg rodeo July 30. The cowgirl has been involved in rodeo in a variety of roles." />
 <figcaption>Kelly Forell, Victoria, Kan., will barrel race at the Phillipsburg rodeo July 30. The cowgirl has been involved in rodeo in a variety of roles.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPSBURG – For Kelly Forell, rodeoing in Phillipsburg is a family affair.&nbsp;The barrel racer, a resident of Victoria, Kansas, is the wife of Guy Forell, a former bull rider who rode bulls at Kansas Biggest Rodeo. Kelly’s late father-in-law, Bud Forell, rode bareback horses and steer wrestled there in the 1950s through the 1980s. And Guy’s sister, Deb Forell Christy, also a barrel racer, has run barrels in Philipsburg for a dozen years or more.For Kelly, marrying into the Forell family was not her first introduction to rodeo. She competed in gymkhanas, beginning when she was two years old. A student at Colby Community College, she began barrel racing in collegiate rodeo. Two years later, she was a student at Kansas State University, with a degree in animal science.While in Colby, she caught the eye of the CCC rodeo coach, Guy Forell. The two dated, and married in 1991.&nbsp;They moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., where the couple worked for the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). She was instrumental in helping switch the PRCA’s entry system for contestants entering rodeos from paper to computer, and helped with marketing as well.&nbsp;In 1992, the couple moved to Alva, Okla., where Kelly obtained her CPA license and worked as an accountant. She owned her own firm for ten years. They raised three children: Cody, and twins Tyler and Bailey. The kids junior rodeoed, with daughter Bailey winning the 2014 National Little Britches barrel racing title.Two years ago, Kelly had a bout with breast cancer. She had merged her accounting practice with another firm, and took off two months to fight the cancer. When she returned to work, her job had been eliminated. So she found a position as chief financial officer at High Plains Farm Credit in Hays, and she and Guy moved back to her hometown.&nbsp;Now that her kids are grown, she is back to barrel racing. Three years ago, she bought a mare named Emmy and has seen some success with her, qualifying for the 2018 American Rodeo semi-finals.She will be aboard Emmy when she runs in Phillipsburg on July 30. In addition to Phillipsburg, Forell will compete in Dodge City over the weekend. Guy, retired from riding bulls and now as president of Farmers Credit Union in Hays, is “my driver and stable boy,” she joked.&nbsp;Forell will have another role in Phillipsburg this weekend: burger server for the barbecue hosted by High Plains Farm Credit. The barbecue, held July 30, is free to all ticket holders. As a Farm Credit employee, she volunteers her time with the organization.&nbsp;In addition to competing in rodeo, she’s held other roles, like National Miss College Rodeo queen in 1989-90 and Miss Rodeo Kansas a year later. She has secretaried and timed rodeos, and helped with the office staff for the World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA) in 2019.&nbsp;And she’s working on horses for the next generation of Forells. Her daughter has requested that mom get three or four barrel horses ready for her, when she’s out of college. “I think that might be my next major project,” Kelly said.&nbsp;She loves competing in Phillipsburg, as a part of the Forell family. “I’m proud to carry on the Forell family tradition. I’m honored to be able to compete there and continue to represent the family, even though I married into it.”The 91st&nbsp;edition of Kansas Biggest Rodeo kicks off July 30 and runs through August 1, with performances nightly at 8 pm. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1aBDBXoA2RRqEbLcuu-ypgI6-E8MF_uaU-eAgCJAYZ7k-645360059&amp;key=YAMMID-55247397&amp;link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.KansasBiggestRodeo.com">www.KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg (685 Third Street.) For more information, visit the website or call 785.543.2448.

For Forells, Phillipsburg rodeo is a family tradition

First Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination, and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County announced this week it was awarded a $3,000 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant.

The grant will increase our assistance funds, which helps low-income households in four categories: rental assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, and diaper assistance.

&nbsp;“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our assistance program, which will allow us to serve more individuals and families in crisis.” said Linda Mills, Executive Director. “Without the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call would not be in a position to meet the increased need, especially for those who are financially stressed due to the pandemic.

Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to our region through community grants.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581950446822.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination, and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County announced this week it was awarded a $3,000 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant.	The grant will increase our assistance funds, which helps low-income households in four categories: rental assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, and diaper assistance.&nbsp;“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our assistance program, which will allow us to serve more individuals and families in crisis.” said Linda Mills, Executive Director. “Without the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call would not be in a position to meet the increased need, especially for those who are financially stressed due to the pandemic.Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to our region through community grants.&nbsp;

First Call receives grant from Heartland Community Foundation

Three-day weather outlook

As a life-long western Kansan with more than 30 years experience in the courtroom, Tom Drees is running as a District Judge candidate for the 23rd Judicial District in the upcoming August 4th Republican primary election. Drees currently serves as the Ellis County Attorney, a position he has held since 1997. He has also served as the Trego County attorney for one term (1997-2000), in conjunction with his Ellis County Attorney position. The 23rd Judicial District encompasses Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties.

A native of Hays, Drees graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, Fort Hays State University, and the University of Kansas School of Law. After graduation from KU, he returned to Ellis County and worked in private practice and as the Assistant Ellis County Attorney for seven years. Under his leadership as Ellis County Attorney, the office has sentenced more than 3,000 felons, with more than 1,000 sentenced directly to prison since 1997.&nbsp;

Drees and his wife, Patricia, have two grown children, Anne and John, who are both educators. Patricia is a Professor of Nursing at Fort Hays State University. Tom is very involved in the community, where he has volunteered locally on the Board of Directors for High Plains Mental Health Center (2006-Present) and Ellis County Historical Society (2004-Present). He has also served as a BSA Troop 101 Assistant Scoutmaster (2009-Present), Immaculate Heart of Mary Confirmation Catechist (2005-Present) and on Parish Counsel (3 terms – totaling 17 years).&nbsp;

“I want to ensure that all who appear before me have a judge with integrity, who is independent, impartial, and neutral at all times, and who is able to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias, with the ultimate goal of achieving justice,” Drees said.

Drees’ experience in the courtroom has been recognized by state leaders with several judicial appointments. “During my professional career, I have served as the governor’s appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sentencing Commission (2007-2012); appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Recodification Commission – the redrafting of the Kansas Criminal Code (2009-2010); and am currently serving the Kansas Attorney General as an appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sexual Violent Predator Commitment Review Committee (2011-Present), and as an appointed prosecutor on the Kansas Supreme Court Pretrial Justice Committee (2018-Present). Locally, I’ve served as the selected prosecutor to the Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Juvenile Justice Board since 1996. Under my leadership, Ellis County sentenced 3,371 felons –&nbsp;1,081 to prison, in fiscal years 1998-2019.”

His commitment to an efficient judicial system is a top priority. “I will work diligently and meticulously to assist litigants and court staff to set hearings in a timelier fashion. I will openly communicate with the parties and properly prepare for each hearing and issue that will come before me, to know the relevant issues, statutes and case law necessary to decide the matter. I will timely issue opinions to the litigants to ensure justice is not delayed, and I will dedicate my full time and attention to accomplishing the judicial tasks entrusted to me,” Drees said.

“Every litigant that appears before a court has a right to expect their judge to be neutral, independent, impartial, whose integrity cannot be questioned. Proper court procedure requires a fair, open and timely hearing before a qualified and independent judge who has the ability to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias. I believe my years of experience in the law – and in life – will allow me to be such a judge. If elected judge, I will faithfully and diligently perform my duties to efficiently handle the cases and controversies that come before me. I will explore innovative ways to help move litigants’ cases forward expeditiously, without jeopardizing their right to a fair trial and a timely decision,” Drees said.

“For nearly 31 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving the public as a lawyer and prosecuting attorney. Now, with the public’s consent, I will continue to serve the public as District Judge of the 23rd Judicial District. With my years of courtroom experience, including scores of jury trials, I am prepared to use my experience to make tough and fair-minded decisions as your District Judge.”

Advance voting for the August 4 election is now available at the County Clerk’s office in each of Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties. Advance voting ends at Noon, on Monday, August 3rd. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2020.

“I would encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote,” Drees said.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595948937233.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>As a life-long western Kansan with more than 30 years experience in the courtroom, Tom Drees is running as a District Judge candidate for the 23rd Judicial District in the upcoming August 4th Republican primary election. Drees currently serves as the Ellis County Attorney, a position he has held since 1997. He has also served as the Trego County attorney for one term (1997-2000), in conjunction with his Ellis County Attorney position. The 23rd Judicial District encompasses Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties.A native of Hays, Drees graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, Fort Hays State University, and the University of Kansas School of Law. After graduation from KU, he returned to Ellis County and worked in private practice and as the Assistant Ellis County Attorney for seven years. Under his leadership as Ellis County Attorney, the office has sentenced more than 3,000 felons, with more than 1,000 sentenced directly to prison since 1997.&nbsp;Drees and his wife, Patricia, have two grown children, Anne and John, who are both educators. Patricia is a Professor of Nursing at Fort Hays State University. Tom is very involved in the community, where he has volunteered locally on the Board of Directors for High Plains Mental Health Center (2006-Present) and Ellis County Historical Society (2004-Present). He has also served as a BSA Troop 101 Assistant Scoutmaster (2009-Present), Immaculate Heart of Mary Confirmation Catechist (2005-Present) and on Parish Counsel (3 terms – totaling 17 years).&nbsp;“I want to ensure that all who appear before me have a judge with integrity, who is independent, impartial, and neutral at all times, and who is able to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias, with the ultimate goal of achieving justice,” Drees said.Drees’ experience in the courtroom has been recognized by state leaders with several judicial appointments. “During my professional career, I have served as the governor’s appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sentencing Commission (2007-2012); appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Recodification Commission – the redrafting of the Kansas Criminal Code (2009-2010); and am currently serving the Kansas Attorney General as an appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sexual Violent Predator Commitment Review Committee (2011-Present), and as an appointed prosecutor on the Kansas Supreme Court Pretrial Justice Committee (2018-Present). Locally, I’ve served as the selected prosecutor to the Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Juvenile Justice Board since 1996. Under my leadership, Ellis County sentenced 3,371 felons –&nbsp;1,081 to prison, in fiscal years 1998-2019.”His commitment to an efficient judicial system is a top priority. “I will work diligently and meticulously to assist litigants and court staff to set hearings in a timelier fashion. I will openly communicate with the parties and properly prepare for each hearing and issue that will come before me, to know the relevant issues, statutes and case law necessary to decide the matter. I will timely issue opinions to the litigants to ensure justice is not delayed, and I will dedicate my full time and attention to accomplishing the judicial tasks entrusted to me,” Drees said.“Every litigant that appears before a court has a right to expect their judge to be neutral, independent, impartial, whose integrity cannot be questioned. Proper court procedure requires a fair, open and timely hearing before a qualified and independent judge who has the ability to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias. I believe my years of experience in the law – and in life – will allow me to be such a judge. If elected judge, I will faithfully and diligently perform my duties to efficiently handle the cases and controversies that come before me. I will explore innovative ways to help move litigants’ cases forward expeditiously, without jeopardizing their right to a fair trial and a timely decision,” Drees said.“For nearly 31 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving the public as a lawyer and prosecuting attorney. Now, with the public’s consent, I will continue to serve the public as District Judge of the 23rd Judicial District. With my years of courtroom experience, including scores of jury trials, I am prepared to use my experience to make tough and fair-minded decisions as your District Judge.”Advance voting for the August 4 election is now available at the County Clerk’s office in each of Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties. Advance voting ends at Noon, on Monday, August 3rd. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2020.“I would encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote,” Drees said. 
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Second Rooks County lake added to algae watch list

RUSSELL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a burglary have tracked down a third suspect after a two day manhunt.

On Thursday morning deputies located and arrested Curtis Klein of Gorham in the area of 186th and Land Road north of Russell. Klein ran from law enforcement during an arrest of two other suspects on Wednesday.

Just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 Block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.

At the residence, deputies observed a black Chevy pickup leaving the scene. Deputies attempted to contact the occupants in the pickup who drove into a large pasture.

At that time, additional Russell County deputies, KHP troopers and K9 officers arrived to help look for the pickup. Authorities found it crashed in a ravine, according to Whitman. No individuals were near the vehicle.

Just after 8a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located 3 individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. The third suspect later identified as Curtis Klein ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country and was found Thursday.

Deputies booked Klein on the same requested charges as Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend Burglary, Theft and Interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596056928567.png" alt="Hogan-photo Russell County" />
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 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a burglary have tracked down a third suspect after a two day manhunt.On Thursday morning deputies located and arrested Curtis Klein of Gorham in the area of 186th and Land Road north of Russell. Klein ran from law enforcement during an arrest of two other suspects on Wednesday.Just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 Block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.At the residence, deputies observed a black Chevy pickup leaving the scene. Deputies attempted to contact the occupants in the pickup who drove into a large pasture.At that time, additional Russell County deputies, KHP troopers and K9 officers arrived to help look for the pickup. Authorities found it crashed in a ravine, according to Whitman. No individuals were near the vehicle.Just after 8a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located 3 individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. The third suspect later identified as Curtis Klein ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country and was found Thursday.Deputies booked Klein on the same requested charges as Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend Burglary, Theft and Interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.RUSSELL COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary, have two suspects in custody and continue to search for a third suspect.Just after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.At the residence, deputies observed a black Chevy pickup leaving the scene. Deputies attempted to contact the occupants in the pickup who drove into a large pasture.At that time, additional Russell County deputies, KHP troopers and K9 officers arrived to help look for the pickup. Authorities found it crashed in a ravine, according to Whitman. No individuals were near the vehicle.Just after 8 a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located three individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. A third suspect — later identified as Curtis Klein of Gorham — ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country.Deputies booked Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend on requested charges of burglary, theft and interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.