A prestigious national grant is allowing the Kelly Center at Fort Hays State University meet the mental health needs of more students.

The Pathway to Help, Hope and Success initiative, created by the&nbsp;grant committee,&nbsp;was awarded the Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association.

The university is receiving $264,561 over a three-year period, and Fort Hays State is investing the same amount in matching funds. FHSU received its first installment of the grant in January.

The funds helped the&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;Center hire a case manager to provide personal counseling services, attend mental health-related trainings and create and implement programming that raises awareness of suicide on college campuses.

The Kelly Center provided a record-breaking 4,084 personal counseling sessions last year, in addition to services in the following areas: alcohol and drug counseling services, student accessibility issues through learning disability testing and accommodations, and academic counseling and peer tutoring. The grant now will help the center reach students enrolled in FHSU online classes as well, via Zoom sessions.

Sadie Spurlock,&nbsp;grant&nbsp;case manager, hosted a six-week online Zoom series during the spring called “Together, Hays” that focused on mental and physical health featuring healthcare workers from FHSU and the Hays community.

Spurlock created a training video for new faculty and staff in their asynchronous virtual training modules. Center staff has also hosted suicide awareness trainings for local companies, held presentations for Greek life and provided a virtual suicide risk assessment and management training course for Kelly Center interns.

Some graduate students were trained this spring to help provide therapy for clients. Plans are to train other student leaders on campus, such as residence hall leaders, as well as faculty and staff to increase the campus community’s ability to recognize, manage and prevent suicidal tendencies.

Gina Smith, director of the Kelly Center, said the grant came at a critical time, with students facing issues never experienced before because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Some students are struggling financially. Some are anxious about the transition to more online classes. And then there is the social isolation aspect of remote learning.

“Now is a time when it’s more important than ever to offer programs that support in as many ways as we can,” Smith said.

Smith said the grant program allows the Kelly Center to address mental health needs in a lot of different ways. It will help develop a collaborative, evidence-based approach to enhance mental health services for all college students, especially for traditionally underserved populations.

The project strives to prevent mental health and substance use disorders; promote help-seeking behavior while reducing negative public attitudes; and improve the identification and treatment of at-risk college students.

“This will positively impact our students’ mental health, and therefore increase our students’ retention, persistence, and success during their university career and beyond,” Smith said.

Joining Smith in co-authoring the grant were Dr. Leo Herrman, associate professor of psychology; Dr. Kenton Olliff, associate professor of advanced educational programs; Robert Duffy, coordinator of the Drug and Alcohol Wellness Network; and Lynn Adams, director of Student Health.

More information about the Kelly Center can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter">www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599841223514.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsA prestigious national grant is allowing the Kelly Center at Fort Hays State University meet the mental health needs of more students.The Pathway to Help, Hope and Success initiative, created by the&nbsp;grant committee,&nbsp;was awarded the Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association.The university is receiving $264,561 over a three-year period, and Fort Hays State is investing the same amount in matching funds. FHSU received its first installment of the grant in January.The funds helped the&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;Center hire a case manager to provide personal counseling services, attend mental health-related trainings and create and implement programming that raises awareness of suicide on college campuses.The Kelly Center provided a record-breaking 4,084 personal counseling sessions last year, in addition to services in the following areas: alcohol and drug counseling services, student accessibility issues through learning disability testing and accommodations, and academic counseling and peer tutoring. The grant now will help the center reach students enrolled in FHSU online classes as well, via Zoom sessions.Sadie Spurlock,&nbsp;grant&nbsp;case manager, hosted a six-week online Zoom series during the spring called “Together, Hays” that focused on mental and physical health featuring healthcare workers from FHSU and the Hays community.Spurlock created a training video for new faculty and staff in their asynchronous virtual training modules. Center staff has also hosted suicide awareness trainings for local companies, held presentations for Greek life and provided a virtual suicide risk assessment and management training course for Kelly Center interns.Some graduate students were trained this spring to help provide therapy for clients. Plans are to train other student leaders on campus, such as residence hall leaders, as well as faculty and staff to increase the campus community’s ability to recognize, manage and prevent suicidal tendencies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599841301100.jpeg" alt="Gina Smith" />
 <figcaption>Gina Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>Gina Smith, director of the Kelly Center, said the grant came at a critical time, with students facing issues never experienced before because of the Coronavirus pandemic.Some students are struggling financially. Some are anxious about the transition to more online classes. And then there is the social isolation aspect of remote learning.“Now is a time when it’s more important than ever to offer programs that support in as many ways as we can,” Smith said.Smith said the grant program allows the Kelly Center to address mental health needs in a lot of different ways. It will help develop a collaborative, evidence-based approach to enhance mental health services for all college students, especially for traditionally underserved populations.The project strives to prevent mental health and substance use disorders; promote help-seeking behavior while reducing negative public attitudes; and improve the identification and treatment of at-risk college students.“This will positively impact our students’ mental health, and therefore increase our students’ retention, persistence, and success during their university career and beyond,” Smith said.Joining Smith in co-authoring the grant were Dr. Leo Herrman, associate professor of psychology; Dr. Kenton Olliff, associate professor of advanced educational programs; Robert Duffy, coordinator of the Drug and Alcohol Wellness Network; and Lynn Adams, director of Student Health.More information about the Kelly Center can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter">www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter</a>.

Grant to Kelly Center provides additional services for FHSU students

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 1 traffic stop Mon., Sept. 7, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Phone/Mail Scam--1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 12:02 AM

Animal Bite Investigation--2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:31:17 AM

Harassment (All Other)--100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:33 AM

Civil Dispute--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 10:20 AM

Civil Dispute--200 block E 19th St, Hays; 10:30 AM

Disturbance - Noise--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 12:20 PM

Shoplifting--4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:40 PM

Harassment (All Other)--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 3:55 PM; 4:30 PM

Assist - Other (not MV)--100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:06 PM

Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--500 block E 16th St, Hays; 5:51 PM

Sex Offense--1200 block E 31st St, Hays; 8/20 4 AM; 6 AM

Suspicious Vehicle--1300 block Douglas Dr, Hays; 8:58 PM

Sex Offense--400 block E 12th St, Hays; 1 PM; 2:30 PM

Disturbance - Noise--1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 9:22 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Tue., Sept. 8, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

 Criminal Damage to Property--2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 4:30 AM; 4:48 AM

Welfare Check--500 block E 17th St, Hays; 6 AM; 6:17 AM

Animal At Large--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 7:58 AM

Assist - Other (not MV)--100 blockl E 3rd St, Liebenthal; 8:44 AM

Lost Animals ONLY--400 block W 12th St, Hays; 11:11 AM

Abandoned Vehicle--2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 11:40 AM

Criminal Damage to Property--1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 9/4 11 AM; 9/8 12:10 PM

Civil Dispute--2500 block Donald Dr, Hays; 1:10 PM

Parking Complaint--1600 block E 29th St, Hays; 1:20 PM

Civil Dispute--500 block E 16th St, Hays; 1:24 PM

Identity Theft--2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 2 PM

Civil Dispute--200 block E 15th St, Hays; 4:19 PM

Domestic Disturbance--300 block E 21st St, Hays; 5/15 9 PM; 10 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 19 traffic stops Wed., Sept. 9, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suicidal Subject--200 block W 7th St, Hays; 5:24 AM

Animal Bite Investigation--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 9:29 AM

Welfare Check--400 block Milner St, Hays; 11:19 AM

Theft (general)--1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:42 PM

MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2100 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 1:09 PM

Domestic Disturbance--100 block W 12th St, Hays; 2:47 PM

Criminal Damage to Property--2000 block Metro Ln, Hays; 6 PM; 7 PM

Assault--2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 9:18 PM; 9:22 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 1 traffic stop Mon., Sept. 7, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Phone/Mail Scam--1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 12:02 AMAnimal Bite Investigation--2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:31:17 AMHarassment (All Other)--100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:33 AMCivil Dispute--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 10:20 AMCivil Dispute--200 block E 19th St, Hays; 10:30 AMDisturbance - Noise--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 12:20 PMShoplifting--4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:40 PMHarassment (All Other)--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 3:55 PM; 4:30 PMAssist - Other (not MV)--100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:06 PMWarrant Service (Fail to Appear)--500 block E 16th St, Hays; 5:51 PMSex Offense--1200 block E 31st St, Hays; 8/20 4 AM; 6 AMSuspicious Vehicle--1300 block Douglas Dr, Hays; 8:58 PMSex Offense--400 block E 12th St, Hays; 1 PM; 2:30 PMDisturbance - Noise--1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 9:22 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Tue., Sept. 8, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log. Criminal Damage to Property--2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 4:30 AM; 4:48 AMWelfare Check--500 block E 17th St, Hays; 6 AM; 6:17 AMAnimal At Large--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 7:58 AMAssist - Other (not MV)--100 blockl E 3rd St, Liebenthal; 8:44 AMLost Animals ONLY--400 block W 12th St, Hays; 11:11 AMAbandoned Vehicle--2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 11:40 AMCriminal Damage to Property--1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 9/4 11 AM; 9/8 12:10 PMCivil Dispute--2500 block Donald Dr, Hays; 1:10 PMParking Complaint--1600 block E 29th St, Hays; 1:20 PMCivil Dispute--500 block E 16th St, Hays; 1:24 PMIdentity Theft--2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 2 PMCivil Dispute--200 block E 15th St, Hays; 4:19 PMDomestic Disturbance--300 block E 21st St, Hays; 5/15 9 PM; 10 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 19 traffic stops Wed., Sept. 9, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suicidal Subject--200 block W 7th St, Hays; 5:24 AMAnimal Bite Investigation--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 9:29 AMWelfare Check--400 block Milner St, Hays; 11:19 AMTheft (general)--1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:42 PMMV Accident-City Street/Alley--2100 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 1:09 PMDomestic Disturbance--100 block W 12th St, Hays; 2:47 PMCriminal Damage to Property--2000 block Metro Ln, Hays; 6 PM; 7 PMAssault--2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 9:18 PM; 9:22 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, Sept. 7-9

NOTE: The video stream is currently unavailable. We apologize for the inconvenience.

However audio from the game is being broadcast live on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are on the road for the first time in 2020 as they travel to Plainville to take on the Cardinals.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show set for 6:30.

&nbsp; You can also listen to the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

You can also listen to the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.

NOTE: The video stream is currently unavailable. We apologize for the inconvenience.However audio from the game is being broadcast live on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs are on the road for the first time in 2020 as they travel to Plainville to take on the Cardinals.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show set for 6:30.&nbsp; You can also listen to the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe width="750" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F8txnkWKo_s" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>You can also listen to the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.

🏈WATCH - TMP-Marian at Plainville

Three-day weather outlook

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

September is the bridge between summer and fall. The sun’s angle is still high enough to provide plenty of warmth, but its light fades faster in the evening. Cottonwoods are already dropping golden leaves. Football seasons are underway even if tailgating is on hiatus for the year. And across Kansas, September is when fall harvest starts in earnest.

For those of us not working in the fields, the most visible sign of harvest will be combines, tractors, grain carts and other slow-moving implements on the road. Remember to be on the lookout for these vehicles. Take your time and pass only when it’s safe. Like you, farmers are anxious to be off the road and at their destination.

But for the next few weeks, the roads will be busy because unlike the mad dash to bring in wheat in early summer, fall harvest is a marathon.

Harvest started for Haskell County farmer Paige Clawson in August when corn silage was chopped. Clawson says they wrapped up their dryland corn harvest about a week before cold, wet weather brought everything to a halt.

“We’re hoping to get back in the field (this) week,” she says of the wait for irrigated corn to ripen. “The past few years we’ve had pretty phenomenal dryland corn, and I think this dryland corn would be an average to below average western Kansas dryland corn crop. Nothing to write home about.”

Clawson says she hasn’t seen the numbers on the final yields. “It was lower than I’d like to see but isn’t that always the answer.”

In south central Kansas, Stafford County farmer Justin Vosburgh took advantage of the rain to prep his machinery to be in the fields in a week or so.

“I’m actually excited for this fall harvest,” Vosburgh says. “I think it’s one of the best dryland crops we will cut in Stafford, Edwards, Pawnee and Pratt counties in a long time. Irrigated looks good, too.”

Weather permitting, Vosburgh says he hopes to start harvest by mid-September and will spend the next six to eight weeks hauling in corn, milo and soybeans and planting next year’s wheat crop.

“Mother Nature plays a huge role,” he says. “Basically, from the 15th of September to the 31st of October, we’ll either be in the harvest field or we’ll be drilling wheat. It’s probably the busiest time of the year for us. A lot will happen.”

While the recent rains didn’t come in time to boost Clawson’s dryland corn, it did perk up the milo.

“You can tell where you rotated milo and had summer fallow and where you didn’t,” she says. “I think a couple recent rains have saved the crop that was going backward faster than we’d like to see.”

Both Vosburgh and Clawson say they haven’t really felt the effects of the pandemic on their farms.

“Probably my biggest fear right now is will COVID-19 cause us a problem,” Vosburgh says. “Will it cause us a problem at an elevator? Will they have employees get sick? Will we get shorthanded? Those are issues you think about.”

Clawson says the only difference she’s noticed is curbside pickup for parts and a few items on backorder.

“We’re just trying to stay on the farm and not go to town as often as we normally would,” she says.

The pandemic is just another in a long line of uncertainties in farming. Yet farmers and ranchers somehow always find a silver lining. With harvest delayed by rain, Clawson was already looking toward the future.

“It will be nice to put wheat into moisture after not putting it into moisture last year,” she says.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauSeptember is the bridge between summer and fall. The sun’s angle is still high enough to provide plenty of warmth, but its light fades faster in the evening. Cottonwoods are already dropping golden leaves. Football seasons are underway even if tailgating is on hiatus for the year. And across Kansas, September is when fall harvest starts in earnest.For those of us not working in the fields, the most visible sign of harvest will be combines, tractors, grain carts and other slow-moving implements on the road. Remember to be on the lookout for these vehicles. Take your time and pass only when it’s safe. Like you, farmers are anxious to be off the road and at their destination.But for the next few weeks, the roads will be busy because unlike the mad dash to bring in wheat in early summer, fall harvest is a marathon.Harvest started for Haskell County farmer Paige Clawson in August when corn silage was chopped. Clawson says they wrapped up their dryland corn harvest about a week before cold, wet weather brought everything to a halt.“We’re hoping to get back in the field (this) week,” she says of the wait for irrigated corn to ripen. “The past few years we’ve had pretty phenomenal dryland corn, and I think this dryland corn would be an average to below average western Kansas dryland corn crop. Nothing to write home about.”Clawson says she hasn’t seen the numbers on the final yields. “It was lower than I’d like to see but isn’t that always the answer.”In south central Kansas, Stafford County farmer Justin Vosburgh took advantage of the rain to prep his machinery to be in the fields in a week or so.“I’m actually excited for this fall harvest,” Vosburgh says. “I think it’s one of the best dryland crops we will cut in Stafford, Edwards, Pawnee and Pratt counties in a long time. Irrigated looks good, too.”Weather permitting, Vosburgh says he hopes to start harvest by mid-September and will spend the next six to eight weeks hauling in corn, milo and soybeans and planting next year’s wheat crop.“Mother Nature plays a huge role,” he says. “Basically, from the 15th of September to the 31st of October, we’ll either be in the harvest field or we’ll be drilling wheat. It’s probably the busiest time of the year for us. A lot will happen.”While the recent rains didn’t come in time to boost Clawson’s dryland corn, it did perk up the milo.“You can tell where you rotated milo and had summer fallow and where you didn’t,” she says. “I think a couple recent rains have saved the crop that was going backward faster than we’d like to see.”Both Vosburgh and Clawson say they haven’t really felt the effects of the pandemic on their farms.“Probably my biggest fear right now is will COVID-19 cause us a problem,” Vosburgh says. “Will it cause us a problem at an elevator? Will they have employees get sick? Will we get shorthanded? Those are issues you think about.”Clawson says the only difference she’s noticed is curbside pickup for parts and a few items on backorder.“We’re just trying to stay on the farm and not go to town as often as we normally would,” she says.The pandemic is just another in a long line of uncertainties in farming. Yet farmers and ranchers somehow always find a silver lining. With harvest delayed by rain, Clawson was already looking toward the future.“It will be nice to put wheat into moisture after not putting it into moisture last year,” she says."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: The start of fall harvest

In 1974, challenger Bill Roy gave Bob Dole the closest contest of his Senate career, possibly only losing on account of dirty tricks by the Dole campaign, which put flyers with fetus images into nearly every mailbox in the city of Wichita. 

Early in the 1988 Republican primary season, with a moderate Dole, strengthened by an endorsement from Alexander Haig, he himself fell victim to dirty tricks from the George Bush campaign in New Hampshire, prompting Dole to proclaim, "I want him to stop lying about my record," considered an overly defensive flash of anger in that bygone era of greater comity and decorum in our national politics. 

Today I found in my mailbox an anti-Bollier flyer featuring a sonogram image of a fetus and implying that she favors late-term abortions. Nearly 50 years later, I see this not only as an echo of those tactics used against Bill Roy, but also as evidence of the lack of ingenuity in our current highly aggressive political climate. Nobody is in favor of abortions. Bollier and many other women — and men — support the right of a woman to make her own choice regarding her own body. Playing the abortion card misses the most relevant aspect of this debate. 

Society, in our schools, in our legislatures, and in our courts, should be providing a network of support for women of all ages, to ensure higher rates of healthy conception, prenatal care, and early childhood nutrition, all of which would protect the sanctity of life. But I don't expect that to happen any time soon, since it is so much easier to paint a distorted picture of an election opponent by associating him or her with extreme positions on a divisive issues. 

I think of it as a legacy left over from the Dole-Roy contest and it cheapens all of us.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In 1974, challenger Bill Roy gave Bob Dole the closest contest of his Senate career, possibly only losing on account of dirty tricks by the Dole campaign, which put flyers with fetus images into nearly every mailbox in the city of Wichita. Early in the 1988 Republican primary season, with a moderate Dole, strengthened by an endorsement from Alexander Haig, he himself fell victim to dirty tricks from the George Bush campaign in New Hampshire, prompting Dole to proclaim, "I want him to stop lying about my record," considered an overly defensive flash of anger in that bygone era of greater comity and decorum in our national politics. Today I found in my mailbox an anti-Bollier flyer featuring a sonogram image of a fetus and implying that she favors late-term abortions. Nearly 50 years later, I see this not only as an echo of those tactics used against Bill Roy, but also as evidence of the lack of ingenuity in our current highly aggressive political climate. Nobody is in favor of abortions. Bollier and many other women — and men — support the right of a woman to make her own choice regarding her own body. Playing the abortion card misses the most relevant aspect of this debate. Society, in our schools, in our legislatures, and in our courts, should be providing a network of support for women of all ages, to ensure higher rates of healthy conception, prenatal care, and early childhood nutrition, all of which would protect the sanctity of life. But I don't expect that to happen any time soon, since it is so much easier to paint a distorted picture of an election opponent by associating him or her with extreme positions on a divisive issues. I think of it as a legacy left over from the Dole-Roy contest and it cheapens all of us.Sincerely, Robb Scott Hays

LETTER: Using divisive issues for political gain

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

<div><iframe title="Ellis County preparing for 2020 general election" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/v87x5-ebaada?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis County preparing for 2020 general election

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is excited to announce that the Esther McMurtrie Memorial Golf Tournament scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, is at full capacity.&nbsp; The tournament will be held at the Ellis Golf Club in Ellis.

Members of the community that are still wanting to get involved are encouraged to sponsor a hole or donate in whatever way they feel appropriate. &nbsp;

The proceeds of this event will improve group homes in Hays, KS by providing funds to complete necessary remodels and upgrades.&nbsp; DSNWK is grateful for the generosity and support of the community for this special event.

DSNWKDevelopmental Services of Northwest Kansas is excited to announce that the Esther McMurtrie Memorial Golf Tournament scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, is at full capacity.&nbsp; The tournament will be held at the Ellis Golf Club in Ellis.Members of the community that are still wanting to get involved are encouraged to sponsor a hole or donate in whatever way they feel appropriate. &nbsp;The proceeds of this event will improve group homes in Hays, KS by providing funds to complete necessary remodels and upgrades.&nbsp; DSNWK is grateful for the generosity and support of the community for this special event.

Esther McMurtrie Memorial Golf Tournament at capacity

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board has received two applications for its vacant position.

Curt Vajnar, former Hays High School agriculture teacher, and Fort Hays State University psychology instructor Nuchelle Chance have applied for the position vacated by Sophia Rose Young.

Young resigned in July after moving outside of the school district.

The person appointed to position would serve the remainder of Young's term, which runs through 2021.

Applications for the position will be accepted through Monday, Sept. 21.&nbsp;The school board will interview perspective candidates at its next meeting on Monday, Sept. 28. 

Interested parties need to submit a letter including their name, address, qualifications, statement on why they want to be a board member and statement on how they can contribute to board and benefit the district to Jess Reling, board clerk, 323 W. 12th, Hays KS 67601 or email  jreling@usd489.com.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board has received two applications for its vacant position.Curt Vajnar, former Hays High School agriculture teacher, and Fort Hays State University psychology instructor Nuchelle Chance have applied for the position vacated by Sophia Rose Young.Vajnar taught for 31 years at HHS.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600183971857.png" alt="Curt Vajnar" />
 <figcaption>Curt Vajnar</figcaption>
 </figure>Young resigned in July after moving outside of the school district.The person appointed to position would serve the remainder of Young's term, which runs through 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600183866229.jpeg" alt="Nuchelle Chance" />
 <figcaption>Nuchelle Chance</figcaption>
 </figure>Applications for the position will be accepted through Monday, Sept. 21.&nbsp;The school board will interview perspective candidates at its next meeting on Monday, Sept. 28. Interested parties need to submit a letter including their name, address, qualifications, statement on why they want to be a board member and statement on how they can contribute to board and benefit the district to Jess Reling, board clerk, 323 W. 12th, Hays KS 67601 or email jreling@usd489.com.

Former HHS teacher, FHSU instructor apply for USD 489 board vacancy

NOTE: The KIOGA Webinar featuring U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has been rescheduled. The new date is 2 p.m. Sept. 24. For more information and to register, contact Kelly at 316-263-7297 or by E-mail:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly@kioga.org">kelly@kioga.org</a>.&nbsp;

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $27.50 per barrel, down $2.50/bbl from a week ago, and nearly six dollars less than the price at the first of the month.

Triple-A says as summer fades away, cheaper gas is here to stay. The national average pump price on Thursday was just under $2.21 per gallon, down two cents from last week. The statewide average in Kansas is once again below $2. We spotted $1.99 in Great Bend, and $1.94 in Hays.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports four active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas Friday, which is unchanged from last week, and seven west of Wichita, which is down one. Baker Hughes reported 254 active drilling rigs nationwide. The counts in Texas and New Mexico were each down one, while Oklahoma was up one.

Regulators approved 13 permits for drilling at new locations across Kansas last week, eight of them in the eastern half of the state, and five west of Wichita, including two in Ellis County. So far this year, there are 298 new drilling permits in Kansas.

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators completed 15 new wells last week in Kansas, 11 of them east of Wichita and four in Western Kansas. Operators have completed 633 wells so far this year.

The government said Thursday U.S. crude-oil production rose nearly 300,000 barrels per day last week, up three percent over the week before. But output remains below 10 million barrels per day for the second week in a row.

The Energy Information Administration reported a big increase in domestic crude oil inventories. Stockpiles increased two million barrels, and remain about 14% over the five year average for this time of year. U.S. crude imports increased by half a million barrels per day last week, but the four-week average remains nearly 18% below the same four-week period a year ago.

U.S. oil-by-rail totals are down slightly from last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,056 tanker cars hauling petroleum and petroleum products for the week ending September 5. That's nearly 14% lower than the same week a year ago. The running total so far this year is down more than 12 percent from last year at this time.

Regulators in Colorado voiced support for increasing the buffers between oil and gas drilling and homes in the state. The newly-reconstituted Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission held five days of hearings on the subject. According to the Denver Post, all but one member voiced support for setbacks of 2,000 feet. That's significantly larger than the setbacks proposed by commission staff, but smaller than the setbacks rejected by voters two years ago. The commission won’t vote on the regulation until it has completed hearings on all the proposed rules, expected in late October.

The Energy Information Administration says total U.S. energy-related carbon dioxide emissions will drop by ten percent this year. The agency's Short Term Energy Outlook for September says we're consuming 18% less coal and nearly 12% less petroleum. The government predicts an increase in monthly Brent crude prices, to an average $44 per barrel during the fourth quarter of this year, and possibly up to $49 per barrel next year.&nbsp;

An activist investment group plans to push for Noble Energy to abandon its plans to sell itself to Chevron, arguing the deal undervalues the oil and gas producer because of low oil prices. A New York-based hedge fund asserts the takeover was done at the wrong time for the wrong reasons. Elliott Management believes the company is better positioned than most firms to benefit from a recovery in oil prices. Elliott believes members of Noble’s management stand to make about $88 million in various forms of compensation from the deal, including $60 million for senior managers.

Husky Energy announced last week it will review and possibly cancel a major offshore drilling project in the Canadian Atlantic. The province of Newfoundland was relying on the "West White Rose" project for jobs and economic stimulus. Husky officials said the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a minimum one-year delay for the project to produce its first barrel of oil. CEO Rob Peabody said the company will undertake a full review of this project and any future operations in the Canadian Atlantic.&nbsp;

The Energy Information Administration's Drilling Productivity Report suggests that total shale production will drop to 7.6 million barrels per day next month, down 68,000 barrels per day from September. Only the Permian Basin of New Mexico and West Texas is expected to show an increase in production next month.

In a closely-watched report, the International Energy Agency trimmed its outlook for worldwide oil demand to 91.7 million barrels per day. That marks a contraction of 8.4 million barrels per day year-over-year. The OPEC cartel predicts a slightly bigger decline in global demand. The cartel's Monthly Monthly Oil Market Report says global oil demand will drop to just over 90-million barrels per day. The report confirms production spikes in June in the U.S., Canada and Latin America, despite tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico. The report suggests production declines are on the way through the end of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARNOTE: The KIOGA Webinar featuring U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has been rescheduled. The new date is 2 p.m. Sept. 24. For more information and to register, contact Kelly at 316-263-7297 or by E-mail:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly@kioga.org">kelly@kioga.org</a>.&nbsp;Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $27.50 per barrel, down $2.50/bbl from a week ago, and nearly six dollars less than the price at the first of the month.Triple-A says as summer fades away, cheaper gas is here to stay. The national average pump price on Thursday was just under $2.21 per gallon, down two cents from last week. The statewide average in Kansas is once again below $2. We spotted $1.99 in Great Bend, and $1.94 in Hays.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports four active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas Friday, which is unchanged from last week, and seven west of Wichita, which is down one. Baker Hughes reported 254 active drilling rigs nationwide. The counts in Texas and New Mexico were each down one, while Oklahoma was up one.Regulators approved 13 permits for drilling at new locations across Kansas last week, eight of them in the eastern half of the state, and five west of Wichita, including two in Ellis County. So far this year, there are 298 new drilling permits in Kansas.Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators completed 15 new wells last week in Kansas, 11 of them east of Wichita and four in Western Kansas. Operators have completed 633 wells so far this year.The government said Thursday U.S. crude-oil production rose nearly 300,000 barrels per day last week, up three percent over the week before. But output remains below 10 million barrels per day for the second week in a row.The Energy Information Administration reported a big increase in domestic crude oil inventories. Stockpiles increased two million barrels, and remain about 14% over the five year average for this time of year. U.S. crude imports increased by half a million barrels per day last week, but the four-week average remains nearly 18% below the same four-week period a year ago.U.S. oil-by-rail totals are down slightly from last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,056 tanker cars hauling petroleum and petroleum products for the week ending September 5. That's nearly 14% lower than the same week a year ago. The running total so far this year is down more than 12 percent from last year at this time.Regulators in Colorado voiced support for increasing the buffers between oil and gas drilling and homes in the state. The newly-reconstituted Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission held five days of hearings on the subject. According to the Denver Post, all but one member voiced support for setbacks of 2,000 feet. That's significantly larger than the setbacks proposed by commission staff, but smaller than the setbacks rejected by voters two years ago. The commission won’t vote on the regulation until it has completed hearings on all the proposed rules, expected in late October.The Energy Information Administration says total U.S. energy-related carbon dioxide emissions will drop by ten percent this year. The agency's Short Term Energy Outlook for September says we're consuming 18% less coal and nearly 12% less petroleum. The government predicts an increase in monthly Brent crude prices, to an average $44 per barrel during the fourth quarter of this year, and possibly up to $49 per barrel next year.&nbsp;An activist investment group plans to push for Noble Energy to abandon its plans to sell itself to Chevron, arguing the deal undervalues the oil and gas producer because of low oil prices. A New York-based hedge fund asserts the takeover was done at the wrong time for the wrong reasons. Elliott Management believes the company is better positioned than most firms to benefit from a recovery in oil prices. Elliott believes members of Noble’s management stand to make about $88 million in various forms of compensation from the deal, including $60 million for senior managers.Husky Energy announced last week it will review and possibly cancel a major offshore drilling project in the Canadian Atlantic. The province of Newfoundland was relying on the "West White Rose" project for jobs and economic stimulus. Husky officials said the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a minimum one-year delay for the project to produce its first barrel of oil. CEO Rob Peabody said the company will undertake a full review of this project and any future operations in the Canadian Atlantic.&nbsp;The Energy Information Administration's Drilling Productivity Report suggests that total shale production will drop to 7.6 million barrels per day next month, down 68,000 barrels per day from September. Only the Permian Basin of New Mexico and West Texas is expected to show an increase in production next month.In a closely-watched report, the International Energy Agency trimmed its outlook for worldwide oil demand to 91.7 million barrels per day. That marks a contraction of 8.4 million barrels per day year-over-year. The OPEC cartel predicts a slightly bigger decline in global demand. The cartel's Monthly Monthly Oil Market Report says global oil demand will drop to just over 90-million barrels per day. The report confirms production spikes in June in the U.S., Canada and Latin America, despite tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico. The report suggests production declines are on the way through the end of the year.

News From the Oil Patch: Fewer than 300 new drilling permits in 2020

I’ve been asked many times by friends, family, and members of the community what it is like being back at school with students in the midst of a pandemic.

It is difficult to speak on behalf of all teachers because each building, classroom, teacher has a unique set of circumstances.

That is what poses such a challenge for our District in providing plans and procedures that meet the needs of everyone.

At the end of the day, we have to protect our most vulnerable populations of students and staff so that we can continue to deliver instruction on-site in our classrooms.

It is our position that the District has made every effort to make decisions based on the most reliable information they have at a given time and the needs of our community.

This summer Hays-NEA negotiated several items into a Memorandum of Understanding to include safety precautions in a formal agreement with the District.

Some of those precautions include the wearing of proper masks by all who enter our school buildings, provision of sanitizing and disinfecting productions, and guidance on leave if teachers contract COVID-19 or have to quarantine.&nbsp; This alleviated some of the fear and apprehension some felt heading into the school year.

Our teacher population certainly includes those considered at high risk for experiencing complications if they contract COVID-19.

Teachers worry about getting sick and spreading the virus to family members who are at higher risk for developing complications from COVID-19.

Our greatest challenge in our buildings is dealing with the new demands of an already demanding job while providing as much normalcy for our students as possible.

Teachers and support staff are instructing and students are learning in new ways.

While we are back in the classroom with students, we are also managing online students simultaneously.&nbsp; Teaching and learning online is not and should not be approached as if it is face-to-face.

Research-based best practices tell us that is ineffective and teachers are sensitive to that.

The work load of teachers and staff has doubled in order to accommodate the competing demands of our new school day.

The strategies and pedagogical practices teachers have spent years learning and perfecting have had to shift overnight.

Finally, we are concerned for our students' and their families' well-being. These are challenging times to navigate and our schools have an important role to play in supporting our students and their families.&nbsp;

Teachers are glad to be back with students despite the challenges, changes, risks, and uncertainty inherent in our current situation.

Even during a pandemic, there is no other place a teacher wants to be than in the classroom with their students.&nbsp;&nbsp;We ask that everyone in our community commit to taking basic precautions to mitigate the spread of the virus and ultimately keep our children in school.

By ABBY GILLAN, Hays NEAI’ve been asked many times by friends, family, and members of the community what it is like being back at school with students in the midst of a pandemic.It is difficult to speak on behalf of all teachers because each building, classroom, teacher has a unique set of circumstances.That is what poses such a challenge for our District in providing plans and procedures that meet the needs of everyone.At the end of the day, we have to protect our most vulnerable populations of students and staff so that we can continue to deliver instruction on-site in our classrooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It is our position that the District has made every effort to make decisions based on the most reliable information they have at a given time and the needs of our community.This summer Hays-NEA negotiated several items into a Memorandum of Understanding to include safety precautions in a formal agreement with the District.Some of those precautions include the wearing of proper masks by all who enter our school buildings, provision of sanitizing and disinfecting productions, and guidance on leave if teachers contract COVID-19 or have to quarantine.&nbsp; This alleviated some of the fear and apprehension some felt heading into the school year.Our teacher population certainly includes those considered at high risk for experiencing complications if they contract COVID-19.Teachers worry about getting sick and spreading the virus to family members who are at higher risk for developing complications from COVID-19.Our greatest challenge in our buildings is dealing with the new demands of an already demanding job while providing as much normalcy for our students as possible.Teachers and support staff are instructing and students are learning in new ways.While we are back in the classroom with students, we are also managing online students simultaneously.&nbsp; Teaching and learning online is not and should not be approached as if it is face-to-face.Research-based best practices tell us that is ineffective and teachers are sensitive to that.The work load of teachers and staff has doubled in order to accommodate the competing demands of our new school day.The strategies and pedagogical practices teachers have spent years learning and perfecting have had to shift overnight.Finally, we are concerned for our students' and their families' well-being. These are challenging times to navigate and our schools have an important role to play in supporting our students and their families.&nbsp;Teachers are glad to be back with students despite the challenges, changes, risks, and uncertainty inherent in our current situation.Even during a pandemic, there is no other place a teacher wants to be than in the classroom with their students.&nbsp;&nbsp;We ask that everyone in our community commit to taking basic precautions to mitigate the spread of the virus and ultimately keep our children in school.— Abby Gillan, Hays NEA<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AClvlGge52U"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

LETTER: Hays teacher addresses COVID concerns as schools reopen

A Hays High School student presented a petition signed by 129 Hays High students and staff in favor of continued mask wearing at the school during the USD 489 school board meeting Monday night.

During the public comment session, senior Skylar Zimmerman gave a short speech supporting mask use at the school.

"I along with many other students at Hays High support the wearing of masks in school, and here's why," he said.

"Last spring when our schools closed and we went to remote learning, it was a frustrating experience for many of us. I missed my friends. I missed my teachers, and I missed many school events.&nbsp;

"My wish for my senior year is to be in school because its the best way to learn. I believe if we all wear masks, practice good hygiene and maintain physical distancing, we will be able to keep our staff and student body safe."

Zimmerman said if he had more time, he believed he would have been able to collect more signatures.

Zimmerman was the one speaker during the public comment session. No one spoke against USD 489's requirement that all students and staff wear masks at school.

Masks have been an issue of debate in Hays in recent months. <a href="http://posts/71b2e036-1db2-45b6-86a9-c9d86520f000">People who were against the city's mask mandate protested outside of the Aug. 27 city commission meeting. </a>At that meeting on a vote of 3-2, the commission renewed its mask ordinance through Oct. 5.

One anti-mask speaker was escorted out of that city meeting by Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d396dd70-fe7a-468c-83fc-666e050d38f2">The Ellis USD 388 school board was also confronted at their August meeting with people asking the school district to not follow Gov. Kelly's mask mandate for schools.</a>

The Ellis school board ultimately decided to follow the governor's mandate.

The Ellis County Commission has not implemented a mask mandate in the county.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the county is not where it would like to be in terms of its COVID-19 positive rate. The county's two-week positive rate was 14.6 percent on Monday, but is trending downward.

Wilson said all schools in the district have dealt with some issue with COVID. However, he said the percent positive among students is less than 1 percent — much lower than the county rate.

He said he would like to see the county positive rate reach less than 5 percent.

"I know those numbers are scary, but I think it is important to look at what is behind those numbers," Wilson said.

Wilson thanked the Hays Middle School staff for pivoting quickly to online learning last week after positive cases among the staff forced the school to move to remote learning for a week.

Wilson also thanked teachers and staff for all their hard work.

"I heard this consistently they are in this together and they are ready and willing to do whatever they can to keep kids in school," Wilson said.

He added,"It is so uplifting to see how hard our staff is working just to make everything work. We have a very strong culture in this district right now, and I don't know if there is anything that we can't withstand. We are going to get through this. They have been really amazing."

Board member Lance Bickle said he wanted to echo the Wilson's statements of support for staff.&nbsp;

He also expressed support for the student who presented the petition.

"I think it is refreshing to hear sometimes that our kids are troopers and unfortunately us adults get out of hand sometimes in some of our thoughts and beliefs," he said.

"I think the kids have been very resilient and have shown, whether its masks or whatever else, they want to stay in school, so they are going to do what it takes to make it work. To that, I applaud them."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600136483392.jpeg" alt="HHS senior Skylar Zimmerman presents a pro-mask petition to the Hays school board at Monday night's school board meeting." />
 <figcaption>HHS senior Skylar Zimmerman presents a pro-mask petition to the Hays school board at Monday night's school board meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Hays High School student presented a petition signed by 129 Hays High students and staff in favor of continued mask wearing at the school during the USD 489 school board meeting Monday night.During the public comment session, senior Skylar Zimmerman gave a short speech supporting mask use at the school."I along with many other students at Hays High support the wearing of masks in school, and here's why," he said."Last spring when our schools closed and we went to remote learning, it was a frustrating experience for many of us. I missed my friends. I missed my teachers, and I missed many school events.&nbsp;"My wish for my senior year is to be in school because its the best way to learn. I believe if we all wear masks, practice good hygiene and maintain physical distancing, we will be able to keep our staff and student body safe."Zimmerman said if he had more time, he believed he would have been able to collect more signatures.Zimmerman was the one speaker during the public comment session. No one spoke against USD 489's requirement that all students and staff wear masks at school.Masks have been an issue of debate in Hays in recent months. <a href="http://posts/71b2e036-1db2-45b6-86a9-c9d86520f000">People who were against the city's mask mandate protested outside of the Aug. 27 city commission meeting. </a>At that meeting on a vote of 3-2, the commission renewed its mask ordinance through Oct. 5.One anti-mask speaker was escorted out of that city meeting by Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d396dd70-fe7a-468c-83fc-666e050d38f2">The Ellis USD 388 school board was also confronted at their August meeting with people asking the school district to not follow Gov. Kelly's mask mandate for schools.</a>The Ellis school board ultimately decided to follow the governor's mandate.The Ellis County Commission has not implemented a mask mandate in the county.Superintendent Ron Wilson said the county is not where it would like to be in terms of its COVID-19 positive rate. The county's two-week positive rate was 14.6 percent on Monday, but is trending downward.Wilson said all schools in the district have dealt with some issue with COVID. However, he said the percent positive among students is less than 1 percent — much lower than the county rate.He said he would like to see the county positive rate reach less than 5 percent."I know those numbers are scary, but I think it is important to look at what is behind those numbers," Wilson said.Wilson thanked the Hays Middle School staff for pivoting quickly to online learning last week after positive cases among the staff forced the school to move to remote learning for a week.Students were back in person on Monday.Wilson also thanked teachers and staff for all their hard work."I heard this consistently they are in this together and they are ready and willing to do whatever they can to keep kids in school," Wilson said.He added,"It is so uplifting to see how hard our staff is working just to make everything work. We have a very strong culture in this district right now, and I don't know if there is anything that we can't withstand. We are going to get through this. They have been really amazing."Board member Lance Bickle said he wanted to echo the Wilson's statements of support for staff.&nbsp;He also expressed support for the student who presented the petition."I think it is refreshing to hear sometimes that our kids are troopers and unfortunately us adults get out of hand sometimes in some of our thoughts and beliefs," he said."I think the kids have been very resilient and have shown, whether its masks or whatever else, they want to stay in school, so they are going to do what it takes to make it work. To that, I applaud them."

Hays High student presents pro-mask petition to school board

Downtown Hays Development Corporation and Gella's Diner are excited to present the fifth annual Farm to Fork Dinner Event on Oct. 15 inside the newly renovated Strand Event Center. This incredible five-course meal is always an unforgettable evening, and 2020 will be no different.

Gella's Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. Executive Chef Manuel Hernandez will once again prepare the evening delicacies. Chef Hernandez delights in telling each course's story and takes guests on a journey through his experience with each dish. The menu will be announced via Facebook by the end of this week.

Each local grower and producer who contributes ingredients to the meal will also be recognized and thanked for their hard work and commitment to providing local food sources. Nearly every ingredient is thanks to Downtown Hays Market vendors and other local producers. Many of those vendors attend the event, so guests get to meet the farmers behind the food.&nbsp;

"This has always been one of my favorite events DHDC hosts," said Sara Bloom, DHDC Executive Director. "The atmosphere, the food, the people, just the concept, it's all so special. The Downtown Hays Market vendors work so hard throughout the year, and I'm glad we get to recognize and celebrate that in such a unique fashion."&nbsp;

The 2020 event will be the third time the event has been hosted inside the historic Strand Theatre, but the first time the venue has been completely restored.&nbsp;

"We've had this event in this building with no electricity, no restrooms, and limited space, and it's still been truly incredible," Bloom said. "Now, to get to have it with original restored ceilings, beautiful chandeliers, a stage, a balcony, just so much; I'm very excited."

Dustin and Laney Roths recently bought the over 5,000-square-foot building at 1102 Main. Much of the building's original look has been restored into the new design, bringing back much of the architectural touches. The Farm to Fork Dinner will only be the fourth event inside the Strand Event Center.

Dinner begins promptly at 6 p.m. with hors d'oeuvres and a local wine sampling. As guests arrive, each one will be entered into a drawing to win handcrafted gifts from various Downtown Hays Market vendors. The remaining courses will begin at 7:00 pm.&nbsp;

Traditionally tables at this event are set up in a classic banquet style setting or long rows of rectangle tables. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this is the most significant change.

"This year has forced us to take many extra precautions with ourselves and our community's health and safety," said Allie Glidewell, DHDC Director of Events. "We like this event to feel like you're eating with family and hope you meet someone new. Unfortunately, this year, we will be separating tables to maintain as much physical distancing as possible, much like what you would see at local restaurants."

Tickets went on sale today, Monday, September 14, at 8:00 am. In-office, tickets are $60 for a single or $450 for a table of eight. Stop by 1200 Main Street to purchase. Online tickets are $65 for a single or $455 for a table of eight. Visit www.downtownhays.com to purchase. Only 104 total tickets will be sold.

For more information, visit www.downtownhays.com or reach out to Allie Glidewell at 785.621.4171 or allie@downtownhays.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596207699929.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCDowntown Hays Development Corporation and Gella's Diner are excited to present the fifth annual Farm to Fork Dinner Event on Oct. 15 inside the newly renovated Strand Event Center. This incredible five-course meal is always an unforgettable evening, and 2020 will be no different.Gella's Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. Executive Chef Manuel Hernandez will once again prepare the evening delicacies. Chef Hernandez delights in telling each course's story and takes guests on a journey through his experience with each dish. The menu will be announced via Facebook by the end of this week.Each local grower and producer who contributes ingredients to the meal will also be recognized and thanked for their hard work and commitment to providing local food sources. Nearly every ingredient is thanks to Downtown Hays Market vendors and other local producers. Many of those vendors attend the event, so guests get to meet the farmers behind the food.&nbsp;"This has always been one of my favorite events DHDC hosts," said Sara Bloom, DHDC Executive Director. "The atmosphere, the food, the people, just the concept, it's all so special. The Downtown Hays Market vendors work so hard throughout the year, and I'm glad we get to recognize and celebrate that in such a unique fashion."&nbsp;The 2020 event will be the third time the event has been hosted inside the historic Strand Theatre, but the first time the venue has been completely restored.&nbsp;"We've had this event in this building with no electricity, no restrooms, and limited space, and it's still been truly incredible," Bloom said. "Now, to get to have it with original restored ceilings, beautiful chandeliers, a stage, a balcony, just so much; I'm very excited."Dustin and Laney Roths recently bought the over 5,000-square-foot building at 1102 Main. Much of the building's original look has been restored into the new design, bringing back much of the architectural touches. The Farm to Fork Dinner will only be the fourth event inside the Strand Event Center.Dinner begins promptly at 6 p.m. with hors d'oeuvres and a local wine sampling. As guests arrive, each one will be entered into a drawing to win handcrafted gifts from various Downtown Hays Market vendors. The remaining courses will begin at 7:00 pm.&nbsp;Traditionally tables at this event are set up in a classic banquet style setting or long rows of rectangle tables. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this is the most significant change."This year has forced us to take many extra precautions with ourselves and our community's health and safety," said Allie Glidewell, DHDC Director of Events. "We like this event to feel like you're eating with family and hope you meet someone new. Unfortunately, this year, we will be separating tables to maintain as much physical distancing as possible, much like what you would see at local restaurants."Tickets went on sale today, Monday, September 14, at 8:00 am. In-office, tickets are $60 for a single or $450 for a table of eight. Stop by 1200 Main Street to purchase. Online tickets are $65 for a single or $455 for a table of eight. Visit www.downtownhays.com to purchase. Only 104 total tickets will be sold.For more information, visit www.downtownhays.com or reach out to Allie Glidewell at 785.621.4171 or allie@downtownhays.com

Farm to Fork Dinner tickets now on sale

The second&nbsp;graduation of the Ellis County Drug Court occurred on Sept. 10 at the Ellis County Courthouse.&nbsp; 

This intensive treatment court program takes many months of hard work and determination by the participants and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments.&nbsp; Pictured left to right are: Tyler Luecke, Tara Rollins, Earnest Johnson, Drug Court Judge Glenn Braun, Nicole Mekelburg, Cory Coil, and Drug Court Coordinator Teresa Greenwood.

Other drug court team members besides Greenwood and Judge Braun are Intensive Supervision Officers Erin Geist, Trevor Roa and Kyle Bartling from Northwest Kansas Community Corrections, Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees and Assistant County Attorney Aaron Cunningham, Attorney Curtis Brown, Jobeth Haselhorst with the Smoky Hill Foundation, Amy Bird with High Plains Mental Health Center, Detective Brian Shannon with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Department, Detective JB Burkholder with the Hays Police Department, and newly added team member Nick Eiden, Drug Court Case Manager.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599832185980.jpeg" alt="From left:&nbsp;Tyler Luecke, Tara Rollins, Earnest Johnson, Drug Court Judge Glenn Braun, Nicole Mekelburg, Cory Coil and Drug Court Coordinator Teresa Greenwood." />
 <figcaption>From left:&nbsp;Tyler Luecke, Tara Rollins, Earnest Johnson, Drug Court Judge Glenn Braun, Nicole Mekelburg, Cory Coil and Drug Court Coordinator Teresa Greenwood.</figcaption>
 </figure>23rd Judicial DistrictThe second&nbsp;graduation of the Ellis County Drug Court occurred on Sept. 10 at the Ellis County Courthouse.&nbsp; This intensive treatment court program takes many months of hard work and determination by the participants and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments.&nbsp; Pictured left to right are: Tyler Luecke, Tara Rollins, Earnest Johnson, Drug Court Judge Glenn Braun, Nicole Mekelburg, Cory Coil, and Drug Court Coordinator Teresa Greenwood.Other drug court team members besides Greenwood and Judge Braun are Intensive Supervision Officers Erin Geist, Trevor Roa and Kyle Bartling from Northwest Kansas Community Corrections, Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees and Assistant County Attorney Aaron Cunningham, Attorney Curtis Brown, Jobeth Haselhorst with the Smoky Hill Foundation, Amy Bird with High Plains Mental Health Center, Detective Brian Shannon with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Department, Detective JB Burkholder with the Hays Police Department, and newly added team member Nick Eiden, Drug Court Case Manager.&nbsp;

Second graduation of the Ellis County Drug Court

Look back at the three hours of theatrics that led to the essential approval of the continuation of Gov. Laura Kelly’s COVID-19 pandemic emergency declaration by the State Finance Council, and what words might come to mind? Maybe “acting out.”

It was entertaining for a time, but depending on how long you want a Republican candidate for the House or Senate standing on your doorstep or shouting through his/her mask from the sidewalk in front of your home that they have “saved” your job or schools or health, it probably lasted a little longer than necessary.

The issue last week, just days before expiration of the governor’s declaration of an emergency that enables the state to receive federal funds to battle the pandemic and for the governor to issue executive orders to reduce the spread of the deadly disease, she was forced to say she doesn’t intend to close businesses in the state to reduce transmission of the disease.

Hmmm… It came down to the governor adding language to the extension of her executive order that says…well, that she doesn’t want to close businesses. Now, of course, neither does anyone, but Republicans sought that language that is pretty much implicit in life in Kansas.

It’s a little like having the governor — in order to respond to the pandemic – being forced to say she sure hopes that business closures won’t be necessary to prevent more deaths from the disease.

But Republican legislative leaders wanted to hear her affirm it and see it written down in an official state document (filed with the Secretary of State) that is notarized. That way, they can say that they have forced the governor to declare she doesn’t want to close businesses, with the ensuing loss of jobs, paychecks and such.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592848178110.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>Look back at the three hours of theatrics that led to the essential approval of the continuation of Gov. Laura Kelly’s COVID-19 pandemic emergency declaration by the State Finance Council, and what words might come to mind? Maybe “acting out.”It was entertaining for a time, but depending on how long you want a Republican candidate for the House or Senate standing on your doorstep or shouting through his/her mask from the sidewalk in front of your home that they have “saved” your job or schools or health, it probably lasted a little longer than necessary.The issue last week, just days before expiration of the governor’s declaration of an emergency that enables the state to receive federal funds to battle the pandemic and for the governor to issue executive orders to reduce the spread of the deadly disease, she was forced to say she doesn’t intend to close businesses in the state to reduce transmission of the disease.Hmmm… It came down to the governor adding language to the extension of her executive order that says…well, that she doesn’t want to close businesses. Now, of course, neither does anyone, but Republicans sought that language that is pretty much implicit in life in Kansas.It’s a little like having the governor — in order to respond to the pandemic – being forced to say she sure hopes that business closures won’t be necessary to prevent more deaths from the disease.But Republican legislative leaders wanted to hear her affirm it and see it written down in an official state document (filed with the Secretary of State) that is notarized. That way, they can say that they have forced the governor to declare she doesn’t want to close businesses, with the ensuing loss of jobs, paychecks and such.The leaders wouldn’t settle for Kelly stating that intention not to close businesses in a press release, or at press conferences. They wanted to see it in that new executive order. Nope, legislative leaders didn’t demand that the governor’s intent not to close businesses be printed in bold face type in that new order, just that it be printed there above her signature. They might require it be printed in bold face type on Oct. 15, when the just-approved order expires and has to be renewed.Practically, when Kelly this spring issued the executive order that closed all “nonessential” businesses and gatherings, she wasn’t happy about it. In June, the Legislature passed a law which allows county commissions to overturn provisions, such as business closings, in Kelly’s executive orders. But her overall pandemic executive orders are vital, because with no emergency, well, there are no federal funds to help Kansas respond to the pandemic. It essentially turns a deadly virus into a mere “inconvenience.”After the Finance Council meeting, Republicans touted that they had forced the governor to officially hope she doesn’t have to close businesses again. Democrats? They basically said, of course, that they were shocked and offended that Republicans forced that concession by the governor, likely for political purposes—meanwhile, Republicans said the power to close businesses is a political power.We’re now going to be listening to see how thrilled voters are as Republicans campaign for election and re-election in the next couple months. Will that change your vote? Would you vote for a candidate who doesn’t want the governor to shut down businesses if they become dangerous locations for the spread of the pandemic?&nbsp; Or who doesn’t say she is disappointed that she may have to?And…do those Republicans remember that if they don’t continue to approve the governor’s emergency powers that her executive orders under the emergency go away? Like the one that permits drive-through purchase of margaritas as long as there is an emergency?Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

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