PHILLIPSBURG – One of the champions from last year’s Phillipsburg rodeo will be back to defend his title.

But this champion doesn’t have two legs, he has four ..…and a mane and a tail.

Nitro, a gray steer wrestling horse owned by Dru Melvin, was the horse that carried Blair Jones to a tie for the steer wrestling title at the 2019 Kansas Biggest Rodeo.

Last year, Jones, Colby, turfed his steer in 3.6 seconds to split first place with Dennell Henderson.

It was the second time for Nitro, who weighs 1,300 pounds and stands 15.1 hands, to compete in Phillipsburg. He’d been there with Melvin in 2018, as well.

Steer wrestlers often share horses, and last year, Laine Herl, Goodland, also won money in Phillipsburg, riding Nitro, tying for seventh place. Richard Coats and Melvin rode Nitro in Phillipsburg.

The horse, who was born in Montana, was purchased from Linn and Trula Churchill of Valentine, Neb. Churchill, a former National Finals Rodeo qualifier, as is Melvin, let Melvin use the horse for practice. Melvin traveled with Nitro as a backup horse. But it wasn’t long till he realized Nitro had it in him to be his primary horse.

Last year, Melvin was traveling with Jones, Herl and Coats, when Jones’ horse had a suspensory issue and was out for six months. Jones asked Melvin if he could ride Nitro, and Melvin agreed. In the sport of rodeo, and especially in the steer wrestling, cowboys often share horses, with mount money paid to the owner if a cowboy wins riding a horse he doesn’t own.&nbsp;

Sometimes the high-performing horses have quirks, and Nitro has a few, but not many, Melvin said. The horse doesn’t like lots of attention. “He’s not one that wants you to walk up to him and pet him on the head. He wants to be loved, but doesn’t want to be loved on. He’s a little standoffish.” But the horse has a huge heart. “He’s going to give you his all, every chance he gets. He can run, he’s fast, and he’s tough.”

Last year, Jones did well the first weekend of August, winning over $6,000 while steer wrestling on Nitro in Phillipsburg, Abilene and Dodge City.&nbsp;

Having a horse like Nitro makes a steer wrestler’s job easy, Melvin said. In the steer wrestling, there are five “minds” to factor in: the steer wrestler, his hazer, their horses, and the steer. “So many things can go wrong, that if you can take your horse out of the equation and know he’ll do well, all you have to do is worry about what you can control, yourself. If you mess up, it’s on you and nobody else.”&nbsp;

Nitro isn’t registered by the American Quarter Horse Association, meaning he’s a “grade” horse. Because of that, he’s not eligible for the AQHA Steer Wrestling Horse of the Year award, but that doesn’t matter to Melvin. “As long as they do their job well, that’s what matters. And he may not be special to anybody else, but he makes my job easy, and that’s all that matters to me.”&nbsp;

Nitro will be back for the Phillipsburg rodeo, with Melvin, who competes on Wed., July 29 during slack.&nbsp;

The 91st annual Phillipsburg rodeo runs July 30-31-August 1 at the rodeo grounds north of town on Highway 183. Mutton busting is at 7:15 pm each night, with the rodeo following at 8 pm. Tickets are $12-$19. The public is encouraged to buy tickets online so as to not to have to social distance while standing in line at the rodeo grounds’ ticket office. Tickets can be purchased online at<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1wicxTUlfUJ-tVbbZsM723fkQ3fteo7OR91_n09xIGPw-381394668&amp;key=YAMMID-53165365&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/2020/7/1595253309559.jpeg" alt="Nitro (the gray gelding to the right) carried cowboy Blair Jones to a co-championship at the 2019 Phillipsburg Rodeo. The horse, owned by Dru Melvin, will be back to carry more steer wrestlers during the 2020 Phillipsburg rodeo, to be held July 30-August 1. Photo by Terri Abrahamsen." />
 <figcaption>Nitro (the gray gelding to the right) carried cowboy Blair Jones to a co-championship at the 2019 Phillipsburg Rodeo. The horse, owned by Dru Melvin, will be back to carry more steer wrestlers during the 2020 Phillipsburg rodeo, to be held July 30-August 1. Photo by Terri Abrahamsen.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPSBURG – One of the champions from last year’s Phillipsburg rodeo will be back to defend his title.But this champion doesn’t have two legs, he has four ..…and a mane and a tail.Nitro, a gray steer wrestling horse owned by Dru Melvin, was the horse that carried Blair Jones to a tie for the steer wrestling title at the 2019 Kansas Biggest Rodeo.Last year, Jones, Colby, turfed his steer in 3.6 seconds to split first place with Dennell Henderson.It was the second time for Nitro, who weighs 1,300 pounds and stands 15.1 hands, to compete in Phillipsburg. He’d been there with Melvin in 2018, as well.Steer wrestlers often share horses, and last year, Laine Herl, Goodland, also won money in Phillipsburg, riding Nitro, tying for seventh place. Richard Coats and Melvin rode Nitro in Phillipsburg.The horse, who was born in Montana, was purchased from Linn and Trula Churchill of Valentine, Neb. Churchill, a former National Finals Rodeo qualifier, as is Melvin, let Melvin use the horse for practice. Melvin traveled with Nitro as a backup horse. But it wasn’t long till he realized Nitro had it in him to be his primary horse.Last year, Melvin was traveling with Jones, Herl and Coats, when Jones’ horse had a suspensory issue and was out for six months. Jones asked Melvin if he could ride Nitro, and Melvin agreed. In the sport of rodeo, and especially in the steer wrestling, cowboys often share horses, with mount money paid to the owner if a cowboy wins riding a horse he doesn’t own.&nbsp;Sometimes the high-performing horses have quirks, and Nitro has a few, but not many, Melvin said. The horse doesn’t like lots of attention. “He’s not one that wants you to walk up to him and pet him on the head. He wants to be loved, but doesn’t want to be loved on. He’s a little standoffish.” But the horse has a huge heart. “He’s going to give you his all, every chance he gets. He can run, he’s fast, and he’s tough.”Last year, Jones did well the first weekend of August, winning over $6,000 while steer wrestling on Nitro in Phillipsburg, Abilene and Dodge City.&nbsp;Having a horse like Nitro makes a steer wrestler’s job easy, Melvin said. In the steer wrestling, there are five “minds” to factor in: the steer wrestler, his hazer, their horses, and the steer. “So many things can go wrong, that if you can take your horse out of the equation and know he’ll do well, all you have to do is worry about what you can control, yourself. If you mess up, it’s on you and nobody else.”&nbsp;Nitro isn’t registered by the American Quarter Horse Association, meaning he’s a “grade” horse. Because of that, he’s not eligible for the AQHA Steer Wrestling Horse of the Year award, but that doesn’t matter to Melvin. “As long as they do their job well, that’s what matters. And he may not be special to anybody else, but he makes my job easy, and that’s all that matters to me.”&nbsp;Nitro will be back for the Phillipsburg rodeo, with Melvin, who competes on Wed., July 29 during slack.&nbsp;The 91st annual Phillipsburg rodeo runs July 30-31-August 1 at the rodeo grounds north of town on Highway 183. Mutton busting is at 7:15 pm each night, with the rodeo following at 8 pm. Tickets are $12-$19. The public is encouraged to buy tickets online so as to not to have to social distance while standing in line at the rodeo grounds’ ticket office. Tickets can be purchased online at<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1wicxTUlfUJ-tVbbZsM723fkQ3fteo7OR91_n09xIGPw-381394668&amp;key=YAMMID-53165365&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.— Submitted

Nitro the 'hero horse' making his return to Phillipsburg rodeo

To say I have lost faith in the ability of our current county commissioners to lead in this time of a global pandemic would be an understatement.&nbsp; I have now attended two county commissioners meetings in July, and I have serious doubts about our commissioners’ understanding of the face mask issue and the best way to protect our community.

Commissioner Butch Schlyer appears to be the most ill-informed—or perhaps simply the commissioner full of the most bluster.&nbsp; At the July 20 meeting, he claimed to have “spent all weekend researching these masks,” but I have to question the quality of his “research.”&nbsp; A simple search of the trusted MayoClinic.org site turned up a clear and straightforward article “COVID-19: How much protection do face masks offer?”&nbsp; The article asserts that “face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the virus.”&nbsp; Moreover, “a cloth mask is intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes.”&nbsp;

When Schlyer asserted, “A mask won’t stop a damn virus. . . . It’s like using chicken wire to keep out flies or mosquitoes,” he revealed a startling lack of understanding regarding the purpose of wearing a cloth mask.&nbsp; The purpose, as the MayoClinic.org site explains, is to reduce the distance and spread of the relatively large droplets that carry the virus from one person to another, NOT to filter the virus itself with the cloth.&nbsp; How can someone who does not even understand the concept of wearing a mask to reduce viral load be responsible for making a crucial decision regarding said masks?

He went on to compare the back-and-forth discussion of masks to “a bunch of ducks farting underwater.”&nbsp; In fact, he announced, “I’m deleting everything I get on my email about a mask.”&nbsp; That should be disturbing news to his constituents.&nbsp; He also claimed that the Dillons and Walmart mask mandates are just “political,” and he is “pissed off” that his 94-year-old father cannot shop at Dillons without a mask or a face shield. &nbsp;

The other two commissioners had their own disturbing revelations to make.&nbsp; “Thank God that this doesn’t affect kids,” said Commissioner Dustin Roths.&nbsp; If it did, he said, “my fatherly instinct would come out.”&nbsp; Presumably, a mask mandate might be warranted if children were at high risk, but since it’s mostly the elderly, cancer patients and others with underlying conditions who are at risk, he sees no reason to reverse his vote against a mask mandate. He even quoted Patrick Henry: “Give me liberty or give me death.” It seems a bit of a stretch to compare a temporary mask mandate (which could prevent much suffering and even death) to the tyranny of colonial British rule. A more fitting slogan for his stance might change the original one slightly:&nbsp; “Give me liberty AND give me death.”

County Health Director Jason Kennedy repeatedly delivered the message that “social distancing works” and we should “limit groups of people.”&nbsp; Nevertheless, Commissioner Dean Haselhorst revealed that on the day before, he had attended St. Joseph Catholic Church, where “out of the probably 400 people there, 8 had masks on.” In other words, one of the three people deciding on policy to govern the health of our community is himself ignoring the County Health Director’s advice to social distance and avoid large gatherings. Haselhorst went on to say that if we would simply stop watching the 6 o’clock and the 10 o’clock news, we’d “forget about what’s going on.” Surely, sticking one’s head in the sand is not the best way to lead during a time of crisis.

Dr. Cheryl Hofstetter Duffy, PhD, Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To say I have lost faith in the ability of our current county commissioners to lead in this time of a global pandemic would be an understatement.&nbsp; I have now attended two county commissioners meetings in July, and I have serious doubts about our commissioners’ understanding of the face mask issue and the best way to protect our community.Commissioner Butch Schlyer appears to be the most ill-informed—or perhaps simply the commissioner full of the most bluster.&nbsp; At the July 20 meeting, he claimed to have “spent all weekend researching these masks,” but I have to question the quality of his “research.”&nbsp; A simple search of the trusted MayoClinic.org site turned up a clear and straightforward article “COVID-19: How much protection do face masks offer?”&nbsp; The article asserts that “face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the virus.”&nbsp; Moreover, “a cloth mask is intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes.”&nbsp;When Schlyer asserted, “A mask won’t stop a damn virus. . . . It’s like using chicken wire to keep out flies or mosquitoes,” he revealed a startling lack of understanding regarding the purpose of wearing a cloth mask.&nbsp; The purpose, as the MayoClinic.org site explains, is to reduce the distance and spread of the relatively large droplets that carry the virus from one person to another, NOT to filter the virus itself with the cloth.&nbsp; How can someone who does not even understand the concept of wearing a mask to reduce viral load be responsible for making a crucial decision regarding said masks?He went on to compare the back-and-forth discussion of masks to “a bunch of ducks farting underwater.”&nbsp; In fact, he announced, “I’m deleting everything I get on my email about a mask.”&nbsp; That should be disturbing news to his constituents.&nbsp; He also claimed that the Dillons and Walmart mask mandates are just “political,” and he is “pissed off” that his 94-year-old father cannot shop at Dillons without a mask or a face shield. &nbsp;The other two commissioners had their own disturbing revelations to make.&nbsp; “Thank God that this doesn’t affect kids,” said Commissioner Dustin Roths.&nbsp; If it did, he said, “my fatherly instinct would come out.”&nbsp; Presumably, a mask mandate might be warranted if children were at high risk, but since it’s mostly the elderly, cancer patients and others with underlying conditions who are at risk, he sees no reason to reverse his vote against a mask mandate. He even quoted Patrick Henry: “Give me liberty or give me death.” It seems a bit of a stretch to compare a temporary mask mandate (which could prevent much suffering and even death) to the tyranny of colonial British rule. A more fitting slogan for his stance might change the original one slightly:&nbsp; “Give me liberty AND give me death.”County Health Director Jason Kennedy repeatedly delivered the message that “social distancing works” and we should “limit groups of people.”&nbsp; Nevertheless, Commissioner Dean Haselhorst revealed that on the day before, he had attended St. Joseph Catholic Church, where “out of the probably 400 people there, 8 had masks on.” In other words, one of the three people deciding on policy to govern the health of our community is himself ignoring the County Health Director’s advice to social distance and avoid large gatherings. Haselhorst went on to say that if we would simply stop watching the 6 o’clock and the 10 o’clock news, we’d “forget about what’s going on.” Surely, sticking one’s head in the sand is not the best way to lead during a time of crisis.Dr. Cheryl Hofstetter Duffy, PhD, Hays

LETTER: Ellis Co. Commission 'ill-informed' on masks

On Monday evening, I attended the county commission meeting where commissioners were set to discuss the potential mask mandate for Ellis County.

Upon taking my seat in the audience, I noticed something important: Everyone in the room had a mask on their face with the exception of the three county commission members.

COVID cases are continuing to rise in Ellis County. As of July 20, there are 34 active cases in Ellis County, with 87 total cases since reporting began, including one death of a man in his 90s.

According to Ellis County Health Director Jason Kennedy, social isolation and distancing is what he believes is the most effective way to keep the virus from spreading in our community. But, in some places, it is incredibly difficult to social distance – so masks are the next best thing. However, Kennedy said implementing a mask mandate at this time is not something he’d recommend.

My question is: Why not? Why is this not the time? A mask mandate at this time would be like taking an Ibuprofen to keep away a headache you can feel coming on. If you wait too long, the medicine won’t be at its strongest when you need it most. If we wait too long to mandate masks, our cases will go up too high to attempt to prevent them.

Commissioner Dustin Roths was the first to ask questions to Kennedy, stating he is “sick and tired of the news trying to turn this into something it’s not.” The other commissioners also lamented the way local news has been reporting on COVID cases. Roths also added that the news reports “hurts our chance at governing.”

I find this extraordinarily ironic. The commissioners want the public to “educate” themselves about the virus, but in the same breath denounce the reporting done by local news. Where is the public supposed to get its news from, if not locally? If the news “hurts” your ability to govern – perhaps you aren’t doing a terribly wonderful job in the first place.

Roths also lamented that the news does not cover enough “good news.”

“They don’t want to talk about the good things we do as a board,” he said. “They are so desperate for us to have bad COVID-19 numbers. I’d like to not have to talk about this every week. The last thing I want is a news camera here every week to try to get an ‘a-ha’ moment and run another article.”

With that statement, commissioner Dean Haselhorst suggested people stop paying attention to news and their attitudes will improve.

“Read something that’s positive and you’ll forget about what’s going on,” he said.

This is not good advice. This is how you end up uninformed. Of course bad news gets more attention, that doesn’t mean good news is being completely ignored. The public deserves to know what their commissioners are discussing. I am terribly sorry, commissioners, that you are sick of talking about how COVID is impacting the community you are here to serve. Imagine how those who are sick and suffering from the virus feel. Imagine how those of us who are high-risk feel.

Along with those comments, Roths made several unproven statements pertaining to the virus, including that “this thing doesn’t affect kids.” Thankfully, though, Roths said his “fatherly instinct” may come out if he thought kids were going to be impacted negatively. I suppose it is time to use those instincts, Mr. Roths, because according to the Mayo Clinic and the CDC, 1.7% of COVID cases are children. This number may seem small until it is your child who catches the virus.

Then commissioner Butch Schlyer spoke. He questioned if there were any clusters of COVID coming from places like Dillons – to which Kennedy responded he knew there were no known clusters related to Ellis County.

“It must be political that they’re doing something like this, same with Walmart,” Schlyer said.

I do not think that a virus cares about your political affiliation.

Schlyer then went on to discuss his 94-year-old father and how he can’t shop at Dillons anymore since he won’t put a mask on because it allegedly affects his oxygen levels.

I cannot speak to the specific health condition of Schlyer’s father. I can, however, personally attest that masks do not affect your oxygenation levels. I have been in and out of the emergency room for the past month because I’m immunocompromised, and I’ve watched my oxygen levels with and without a mask on. My oxygen levels stay consistent regardless of if I have a mask on my face or not. This information is consistent with what most doctors are claiming regarding masks having no impact on oxygen levels.

Schlyer also said he doesn’t like that the Hays City Commission is trying to “take the moral high ground in telling him what’s right” when discussing a mask mandate.

I don’t think this has anything to do with taking a moral high ground. I respect the City of Hays commissioners for taking the health of their community into consideration.

“We (KDHE) talked about social distancing but never about putting a mask on,” Schlyer said, “And that’s because a mask won’t stop a damn virus. That’s just a fact. I spent all weekend researching these masks.”

I would love to see what sources Schlyer used for his research. The mask won’t stop the virus, but it helps contain the spread while we create vaccines or better technology to deal with those infected. I am stunned Schlyer said the masks can impact your oxygen but in the same breath said they are incapable of keeping particles from reaching other people.

Which argument is it? Are the masks hindering breathing by not letting enough oxygen enter or are the masks not effective because there is too much room for particles to pass through? It can’t be both.

Then Schlyer said he is to the point where he is “just deleting everything he gets in his emails regarding face masks.”

A public official proudly proclaiming he is ignoring and deleting the concerns of the people he was elected to serve. That is not only extremely disheartening, it is disgusting.

Regardless of how any individual feels about the masks, the way the county commissioners spoke Monday night was incredibly unprofessional and concerning. From suggesting that community members stop listening to the news to Schlyer openly admitting he disregards emails dealing with a very volatile, current subject, I am worried about the future of Ellis County if we continue to not be proactive about masks.

The county commissioners did not listen to the pleas of those who spoke at the meeting, nor are they apparently listening to the ones who email or call them with concerns. These men were put in their position to serve our community – and they are failing us.

Since our county commissioners have once again failed to support a mandate that would protect our community, I am imploring the Hays City commissioners to consider a mask mandate. I am also asking that those who are still able to go out in public wear masks to protect the people around you. We have to work together as a community or we will surely pay the price.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday evening, I attended the county commission meeting where commissioners were set to discuss the potential mask mandate for Ellis County.Upon taking my seat in the audience, I noticed something important: Everyone in the room had a mask on their face with the exception of the three county commission members.COVID cases are continuing to rise in Ellis County. As of July 20, there are 34 active cases in Ellis County, with 87 total cases since reporting began, including one death of a man in his 90s.According to Ellis County Health Director Jason Kennedy, social isolation and distancing is what he believes is the most effective way to keep the virus from spreading in our community. But, in some places, it is incredibly difficult to social distance – so masks are the next best thing. However, Kennedy said implementing a mask mandate at this time is not something he’d recommend.My question is: Why not? Why is this not the time? A mask mandate at this time would be like taking an Ibuprofen to keep away a headache you can feel coming on. If you wait too long, the medicine won’t be at its strongest when you need it most. If we wait too long to mandate masks, our cases will go up too high to attempt to prevent them.Commissioner Dustin Roths was the first to ask questions to Kennedy, stating he is “sick and tired of the news trying to turn this into something it’s not.” The other commissioners also lamented the way local news has been reporting on COVID cases. Roths also added that the news reports “hurts our chance at governing.”I find this extraordinarily ironic. The commissioners want the public to “educate” themselves about the virus, but in the same breath denounce the reporting done by local news. Where is the public supposed to get its news from, if not locally? If the news “hurts” your ability to govern – perhaps you aren’t doing a terribly wonderful job in the first place.Roths also lamented that the news does not cover enough “good news.”“They don’t want to talk about the good things we do as a board,” he said. “They are so desperate for us to have bad COVID-19 numbers. I’d like to not have to talk about this every week. The last thing I want is a news camera here every week to try to get an ‘a-ha’ moment and run another article.”With that statement, commissioner Dean Haselhorst suggested people stop paying attention to news and their attitudes will improve.“Read something that’s positive and you’ll forget about what’s going on,” he said.This is not good advice. This is how you end up uninformed. Of course bad news gets more attention, that doesn’t mean good news is being completely ignored. The public deserves to know what their commissioners are discussing. I am terribly sorry, commissioners, that you are sick of talking about how COVID is impacting the community you are here to serve. Imagine how those who are sick and suffering from the virus feel. Imagine how those of us who are high-risk feel.Along with those comments, Roths made several unproven statements pertaining to the virus, including that “this thing doesn’t affect kids.” Thankfully, though, Roths said his “fatherly instinct” may come out if he thought kids were going to be impacted negatively. I suppose it is time to use those instincts, Mr. Roths, because according to the Mayo Clinic and the CDC, 1.7% of COVID cases are children. This number may seem small until it is your child who catches the virus.Then commissioner Butch Schlyer spoke. He questioned if there were any clusters of COVID coming from places like Dillons – to which Kennedy responded he knew there were no known clusters related to Ellis County.“It must be political that they’re doing something like this, same with Walmart,” Schlyer said.I do not think that a virus cares about your political affiliation.Schlyer then went on to discuss his 94-year-old father and how he can’t shop at Dillons anymore since he won’t put a mask on because it allegedly affects his oxygen levels.I cannot speak to the specific health condition of Schlyer’s father. I can, however, personally attest that masks do not affect your oxygenation levels. I have been in and out of the emergency room for the past month because I’m immunocompromised, and I’ve watched my oxygen levels with and without a mask on. My oxygen levels stay consistent regardless of if I have a mask on my face or not. This information is consistent with what most doctors are claiming regarding masks having no impact on oxygen levels.Schlyer also said he doesn’t like that the Hays City Commission is trying to “take the moral high ground in telling him what’s right” when discussing a mask mandate.I don’t think this has anything to do with taking a moral high ground. I respect the City of Hays commissioners for taking the health of their community into consideration.“We (KDHE) talked about social distancing but never about putting a mask on,” Schlyer said, “And that’s because a mask won’t stop a damn virus. That’s just a fact. I spent all weekend researching these masks.”I would love to see what sources Schlyer used for his research. The mask won’t stop the virus, but it helps contain the spread while we create vaccines or better technology to deal with those infected. I am stunned Schlyer said the masks can impact your oxygen but in the same breath said they are incapable of keeping particles from reaching other people.Which argument is it? Are the masks hindering breathing by not letting enough oxygen enter or are the masks not effective because there is too much room for particles to pass through? It can’t be both.Then Schlyer said he is to the point where he is “just deleting everything he gets in his emails regarding face masks.”A public official proudly proclaiming he is ignoring and deleting the concerns of the people he was elected to serve. That is not only extremely disheartening, it is disgusting.Regardless of how any individual feels about the masks, the way the county commissioners spoke Monday night was incredibly unprofessional and concerning. From suggesting that community members stop listening to the news to Schlyer openly admitting he disregards emails dealing with a very volatile, current subject, I am worried about the future of Ellis County if we continue to not be proactive about masks.The county commissioners did not listen to the pleas of those who spoke at the meeting, nor are they apparently listening to the ones who email or call them with concerns. These men were put in their position to serve our community – and they are failing us.Since our county commissioners have once again failed to support a mandate that would protect our community, I am imploring the Hays City commissioners to consider a mask mandate. I am also asking that those who are still able to go out in public wear masks to protect the people around you. We have to work together as a community or we will surely pay the price.&nbsp;Anniston Weber, Hays

LETTER: Masks or 'we will surely pay the price'

TREGO COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 5 p.m. Wednesday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Buick passenger car driven by Dallas Anthony Thompson, 17, Charleston, Arkansas, was westbound in the 2000 Block County Road G Terrace.

The driver lost control on the dirt road. The car slid into a field entrance sideways, went airborne and rolled.

EMS transported&nbsp; Thompson to Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 5 p.m. Wednesday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Buick passenger car driven by Dallas Anthony Thompson, 17, Charleston, Arkansas, was westbound in the 2000 Block County Road G Terrace.The driver lost control on the dirt road. The car slid into a field entrance sideways, went airborne and rolled.EMS transported&nbsp; Thompson to Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Teen hospitalized after car goes airborne, rolls in Trego County

Three-day weather outlook

RUSSELL — The final performances of Ad Astra Music Festival’s 2020 virtual season take place this weekend. The festival continues to bring outstanding music to its audience by streaming performances free of charge on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/adastramusicfestival">Facebook page</a>. Music lovers from across the globe can enjoy these final concerts without ever having to leave their homes.&nbsp;

First, on Friday, July 24, at 7:30 pm CDT, Ad Astra presents a performance by the High School and Community Virtual Choirs.

 Ad Astra is proud to have given high school students from around the world the opportunity to perform a cappella pop and jazz arrangements in small groups. Over the course of two weeks, the students were led by industry professionals to explore the styles, trends, and approaches to this genre. 

When asked about her experience with this program, Caitlin Leiker, a senior at Hays High School, said “The A Cappella Intensive was such a fun and engaging learning experience! I feel like Ad Astra is really rising above the odds by finding new ways to overcome our world’s circumstances through collaborative projects such as this. I know I can speak for the other participants by saying how much we appreciate the time and effort that went into it. After participating in other virtual attempts to recreate the choir experience, Ad Astra provided something the others didn’t—connection.”

Following the High School Virtual Choir, the Russell Community Choir will sing the finale to the night’s performance. Tune in to be inspired by the next generation of musicians.

Finishing off the 2020 virtual season on Saturday, July 24, at 7:30 pm CDT, Ad Astra presents “Trudy Furney Opera: A Sneak Peak.” We commissioned composer Anna Pidgorna and librettist Maria Reva to create an opera about the life of beloved Russell High School art teacher Trudy Furney.

The opera will be premiered in full next year at Prairiesta, but this year Ad Astra is giving its audience a sneak peak that provides a look at their creative process, complete with interviews and sketches, and culminating with a workshop performance of scenes from the opera. 

Katelyn Mattson-Levy, set to play Trudy herself, said, “The more I learn about the life of Trudy, the more I learn to love the woman behind the stories. Her legacy is still fresh in the minds and hearts of students and her community, and this opera is a portrait of those memories.”&nbsp; Don’t forget to watch the exciting finale to our 2020 season!

Ad Astra is proud to be able to offer these streamed performances free of charge on their official Facebook page. If you’d like to support the Ad Astra Music Festival or get a physical souvenir for this year’s virtual performances, we are now selling programs on our website (<a href="http://adastramusicfestival.org/" target="_blank">adastramusicfestival.org</a>) for $10 each. Programs may also be purchased in person at Espresso, Etc. and at the Russell County Economic Development Office.&nbsp;

The Ad Astra Music Festival was established in 2014 by Russell native Alex Underwood. Each July, Ad Astra colors central Kansas with classical music by integrating emerging young artists, community members, and professional musicians. Audiences have come to expect fresh, new music alongside vibrant performances of history’s richest musical works of art. Ad Astra is dedicated to making this festival of and for the people of Russell as we annually collaborate with local visual artists, poets, and musicians to design meaningful creative experiences.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595357209444.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseRUSSELL — The final performances of Ad Astra Music Festival’s 2020 virtual season take place this weekend. The festival continues to bring outstanding music to its audience by streaming performances free of charge on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/adastramusicfestival">Facebook page</a>. Music lovers from across the globe can enjoy these final concerts without ever having to leave their homes.&nbsp;First, on Friday, July 24, at 7:30 pm CDT, Ad Astra presents a performance by the High School and Community Virtual Choirs. Ad Astra is proud to have given high school students from around the world the opportunity to perform a cappella pop and jazz arrangements in small groups. Over the course of two weeks, the students were led by industry professionals to explore the styles, trends, and approaches to this genre. When asked about her experience with this program, Caitlin Leiker, a senior at Hays High School, said “The A Cappella Intensive was such a fun and engaging learning experience! I feel like Ad Astra is really rising above the odds by finding new ways to overcome our world’s circumstances through collaborative projects such as this. I know I can speak for the other participants by saying how much we appreciate the time and effort that went into it. After participating in other virtual attempts to recreate the choir experience, Ad Astra provided something the others didn’t—connection.” Following the High School Virtual Choir, the Russell Community Choir will sing the finale to the night’s performance. Tune in to be inspired by the next generation of musicians.Finishing off the 2020 virtual season on Saturday, July 24, at 7:30 pm CDT, Ad Astra presents “Trudy Furney Opera: A Sneak Peak.” We commissioned composer Anna Pidgorna and librettist Maria Reva to create an opera about the life of beloved Russell High School art teacher Trudy Furney. The opera will be premiered in full next year at Prairiesta, but this year Ad Astra is giving its audience a sneak peak that provides a look at their creative process, complete with interviews and sketches, and culminating with a workshop performance of scenes from the opera. Katelyn Mattson-Levy, set to play Trudy herself, said, “The more I learn about the life of Trudy, the more I learn to love the woman behind the stories. Her legacy is still fresh in the minds and hearts of students and her community, and this opera is a portrait of those memories.”&nbsp; Don’t forget to watch the exciting finale to our 2020 season!Ad Astra is proud to be able to offer these streamed performances free of charge on their official Facebook page. If you’d like to support the Ad Astra Music Festival or get a physical souvenir for this year’s virtual performances, we are now selling programs on our website (<a href="http://adastramusicfestival.org/" target="_blank">adastramusicfestival.org</a>) for $10 each. Programs may also be purchased in person at Espresso, Etc. and at the Russell County Economic Development Office.&nbsp;The Ad Astra Music Festival was established in 2014 by Russell native Alex Underwood. Each July, Ad Astra colors central Kansas with classical music by integrating emerging young artists, community members, and professional musicians. Audiences have come to expect fresh, new music alongside vibrant performances of history’s richest musical works of art. Ad Astra is dedicated to making this festival of and for the people of Russell as we annually collaborate with local visual artists, poets, and musicians to design meaningful creative experiences.

Hays High senior to perform with Ad Astra Virtual Choir Friday

There are two sure-fire ways to avoid the pungent smell of a skunk: don’t get into areas where skunks may live, but if you do, for goodness sakes don’t get sprayed.

When those two factors collide, humans and pets usually get the short end of the deal.

“It’s certainly a better idea to prevent the problem than to try to deal with the after effects,” said Charlie Lee, a wildlife specialist with K-State Research and Extension.

It is rare for a healthy skunk to bite a human. However, one that is exhibiting active signs of rabies – aggressiveness, seizures or stumbling, to name a few – may be more inclined to bite and could transmit the disease to humans or animals.

More common, however, is that a skunk will try to chase away a predator or encroaching human by spraying a yellow-tinted, oily liquid – called a musk -- stored in two sacs near the anus of the animal.

“Each sac has about a teaspoon of musk, which is enough for multiple sprays,” Lee said. “The musk is discharged through nipples that help skunks target those things they are trying to repel. Each nipple has its own musk sac, so a skunk can shoot with both barrels, and they can discharge the musk in a mist or a stream.”

The musk cannot transmit the rabies virus, Lee said, but it can temporarily blind or stun individuals if they are sprayed in the face.

While the health effects of being sprayed by a skunk are minimal, it is nonetheless unpleasant to rid hair, clothes and body of the bitter smell. Lee said the following mixture, discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum, has been shown to be effective:

“Mix those three ingredients in an open container and use it immediately,” he said. “Do not mix these ingredients in advance because when oxygen is released, the container can explode.”

The mixture can be used on people and pets, but Lee cautioned users to avoid splashing it in the eyes or mouth. On pets, allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before rinsing.

For inanimate objects – surfaces, decks, chairs and other outside objects – Lee suggested a mixture of 1 cup of liquid laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. “Be aware that bleach may stain surfaces,” he said.

Lee added that some of the effective commercial products available in many stores include Skunk-Off, Odormute, Fresh Wave, Epoleon N-100 and Neutroleum Alpha.

“Neutroleum Alpha is one that has been used to control odor from skunks in a variety of settings,” Lee said. “It deodorizes by masking the odor with a different one that is described as minty or pleasant. You can use it directly on surfaces or it can be used as an air deodorizer by placing it on paper towels or napkins and then hanging them in the area.”

Lee noted that one home remedy thought to work is probably not what folks think it is: “Tomato juice is not something I recommend,” he said. “It appears to be only marginally effective.”

“There are a lot of products out there that will help consumers through a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Keep in mind that at times when humidity is high or it rains, the odor will appear to come back. In those times, simply re-apply the product.”

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are two sure-fire ways to avoid the pungent smell of a skunk: don’t get into areas where skunks may live, but if you do, for goodness sakes don’t get sprayed.When those two factors collide, humans and pets usually get the short end of the deal.“It’s certainly a better idea to prevent the problem than to try to deal with the after effects,” said Charlie Lee, a wildlife specialist with K-State Research and Extension.It is rare for a healthy skunk to bite a human. However, one that is exhibiting active signs of rabies – aggressiveness, seizures or stumbling, to name a few – may be more inclined to bite and could transmit the disease to humans or animals.More common, however, is that a skunk will try to chase away a predator or encroaching human by spraying a yellow-tinted, oily liquid – called a musk -- stored in two sacs near the anus of the animal.“Each sac has about a teaspoon of musk, which is enough for multiple sprays,” Lee said. “The musk is discharged through nipples that help skunks target those things they are trying to repel. Each nipple has its own musk sac, so a skunk can shoot with both barrels, and they can discharge the musk in a mist or a stream.”The musk cannot transmit the rabies virus, Lee said, but it can temporarily blind or stun individuals if they are sprayed in the face.While the health effects of being sprayed by a skunk are minimal, it is nonetheless unpleasant to rid hair, clothes and body of the bitter smell. Lee said the following mixture, discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum, has been shown to be effective:<ul>
 <li>1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide.</li><li>¼ cup of baking soda.</li><li>1 teaspoon of liquid determent.</li>
 </ul>“Mix those three ingredients in an open container and use it immediately,” he said. “Do not mix these ingredients in advance because when oxygen is released, the container can explode.”The mixture can be used on people and pets, but Lee cautioned users to avoid splashing it in the eyes or mouth. On pets, allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before rinsing.For inanimate objects – surfaces, decks, chairs and other outside objects – Lee suggested a mixture of 1 cup of liquid laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. “Be aware that bleach may stain surfaces,” he said.Lee added that some of the effective commercial products available in many stores include Skunk-Off, Odormute, Fresh Wave, Epoleon N-100 and Neutroleum Alpha.“Neutroleum Alpha is one that has been used to control odor from skunks in a variety of settings,” Lee said. “It deodorizes by masking the odor with a different one that is described as minty or pleasant. You can use it directly on surfaces or it can be used as an air deodorizer by placing it on paper towels or napkins and then hanging them in the area.”Lee noted that one home remedy thought to work is probably not what folks think it is: “Tomato juice is not something I recommend,” he said. “It appears to be only marginally effective.”“There are a lot of products out there that will help consumers through a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Keep in mind that at times when humidity is high or it rains, the odor will appear to come back. In those times, simply re-apply the product.”Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Got skunked? Here's some tips

On Thursday evening, the Hays City Commission approved a mandatory face covering requirement.

According to the decision, face coverings in many public situations will be required as of 8 a.m. Monday. The requirement will expire midnight Aug. 31.

There is a list of 10 exceptions to the rule, including children younger than the age of 8.

Check Hays Post for more on this developing story as information becomes available.

On Thursday evening, the Hays City Commission approved a mandatory face covering requirement.According to the decision, face coverings in many public situations will be required as of 8 a.m. Monday. The requirement will expire midnight Aug. 31.There is a list of 10 exceptions to the rule, including children younger than the age of 8.Check Hays Post for more on this developing story as information becomes available.<figure>
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BREAKING: Hays City Commission approves face mask requirement

A local job fair has been a topic for several months as several local employers are hiring. With COVID-19 concerns, Grow Hays, KansasWorkd Hays, Work Hays and Big Creek Crossing have been brainstorming for alternatives to the typical job fair event.&nbsp;

In our discussions, we came up with a county-wide event that allows employers to remain at their businesses and abide by their rules regarding how applications are accepted. The event will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6.&nbsp;

Employers interested in participating will send information to be compiled and promoted via websites, social media, news articles, emails, etc..&nbsp; A "map" of all participating employers will be created and made available to job seekers. Job seekers can either apply online or go to the employer during the event to apply. &nbsp;

Interested employers need to send the following to <a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a> no later than Thursday:

&nbsp;• Logo &nbsp;• Company name &nbsp;• Company address &nbsp;• Contact Person and contact info &nbsp;• Website • Available positions and job descriptions &nbsp;• Link to online application or actual application

If you have any questions, call Ernee Sly at (785) 628-3102 or KansasWorks (785) 625-5654.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595445713908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysA local job fair has been a topic for several months as several local employers are hiring. With COVID-19 concerns, Grow Hays, KansasWorkd Hays, Work Hays and Big Creek Crossing have been brainstorming for alternatives to the typical job fair event.&nbsp;In our discussions, we came up with a county-wide event that allows employers to remain at their businesses and abide by their rules regarding how applications are accepted. The event will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6.&nbsp;Employers interested in participating will send information to be compiled and promoted via websites, social media, news articles, emails, etc..&nbsp; A "map" of all participating employers will be created and made available to job seekers. Job seekers can either apply online or go to the employer during the event to apply. &nbsp;Interested employers need to send the following to <a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a> no later than Thursday:&nbsp;• Logo &nbsp;• Company name &nbsp;• Company address &nbsp;• Contact Person and contact info &nbsp;• Website • Available positions and job descriptions &nbsp;• Link to online application or actual applicationIf you have any questions, call Ernee Sly at (785) 628-3102 or KansasWorks (785) 625-5654.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579031366928.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Business sign-up deadline for Ellis Co. Job Fair is Thursday

Fact Checking Policy:&nbsp;Hays Post adheres to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.poynter.org/ifcn-fact-checkers-code-of-principles/">International Fact-Checking Network's principles and policies</a>, which can be referenced <a href="https://www.poynter.org/ifcn-fact-checkers-code-of-principles/">HERE</a>.

Fact Checking Policy:&nbsp;Hays Post adheres to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.poynter.org/ifcn-fact-checkers-code-of-principles/">International Fact-Checking Network's principles and policies</a>, which can be referenced <a href="https://www.poynter.org/ifcn-fact-checkers-code-of-principles/">HERE</a>.

Fact-checking policy

New positive cases of COVID-19 are being reported in in northwest Kansas counties.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e0ec0171-2334-4413-83d8-d35d3a85c47b">Ellis County reported 10 new cases</a> of coronavirus since Monday.&nbsp;

In Phillips County, another death associated with an outbreak at Logan Manor was reported Tuesday by the health department. A 75-year-old female died early Tuesday afternoon, the department reported. There are now 20 active cases — 40 overall — identified in Phillips County.

In Graham County, where a cluster of cases were identified after a dance, there have been nine cases and two hospitalizations.

Thomas County has seven active cases and 25 total, including two hospitalizations, since reporting began.

In Rooks County, two new cases were announced Wednesday, and an additional positive was also identified in Russell County. There are currently three active cases of the virus in Rush County, with two recovered.

Trego County announced Tuesday its third and fourth cases have recovered, bringing the number of active cases to zero.

Two northwest Kansas counties — Wallace and Rawlins — remain the only counties in Kansas without a reported case of COVID-19.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cc906249-3316-4798-91b0-483d30b1825f">Click HERE for a statewide update of cases from the KDHE.</a>

New positive cases of COVID-19 are being reported in in northwest Kansas counties.On Wednesday, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e0ec0171-2334-4413-83d8-d35d3a85c47b">Ellis County reported 10 new cases</a> of coronavirus since Monday.&nbsp;In Phillips County, another death associated with an outbreak at Logan Manor was reported Tuesday by the health department. A 75-year-old female died early Tuesday afternoon, the department reported. There are now 20 active cases — 40 overall — identified in Phillips County.In Graham County, where a cluster of cases were identified after a dance, there have been nine cases and two hospitalizations.Thomas County has seven active cases and 25 total, including two hospitalizations, since reporting began.In Rooks County, two new cases were announced Wednesday, and an additional positive was also identified in Russell County. There are currently three active cases of the virus in Rush County, with two recovered.Trego County announced Tuesday its third and fourth cases have recovered, bringing the number of active cases to zero.Two northwest Kansas counties — Wallace and Rawlins — remain the only counties in Kansas without a reported case of COVID-19.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cc906249-3316-4798-91b0-483d30b1825f">Click HERE for a statewide update of cases from the KDHE.</a><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Frussellcountyhealthdept%2Fposts%2F2622888831295037&width=500" width="500" height="673" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

NW Kan. counties reporting new cases of coronavirus

Flatlander Dirt Works: Rock for sale. Delivery throughout Kansas!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595450018185.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Flatlander Dirt Works: Rock for sale. Delivery throughout Kansas!

Ten new cases: 'Ellis County is not isolating well inside the home'

By STEPHAN BISAHA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansas-schools-will-start-time-after-state-board-rejects-kelly-s-suggested-delay">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kansas — Kansas’ elementary, middle and 
high schools will reopen for in-person instruction in August, despite 
Gov. Laura Kelly’s push to delay the 2020-21 school year until after 
Labor Day.

The Kansas State Board of Education voted 5-5 
Wednesday — the tie being enough to reject Kelly’s executive order that 
would have delayed the start by three weeks. Her order, which affected 
instruction and all extracurriculars, needed the board’s approval.

"The
 districts have been preparing for this and they are prepared,” board 
member Michelle Dombrosky said. "This needs to be a local decision."

The
 proposed delay was one of several tactics Kelly and school districts 
were considering to protect educators and students returning to 
in-person classes. The Democratic governor wanted to give districts more
 time to implement reopening guidelines approved by the state school 
board last week, as well as get the supplies needed to keep students and
 staff safe and to see if the state could reverse its current spike in 
coronavirus cases.

Kelly also mandated this week through an 
executive order — one that didn’t need board approval — that students, 
staff and teachers must wear masks and use hand sanitizer at least 
hourly. Districts have been spending the summer months buying gallons of
 hand sanitizer and thousands of masks.

But Kelly’s order also 
requires that schools give everyone entering their buildings daily 
temperature checks. Demand for personal protective equipment has made it
 difficult to quickly obtain quality supplies, and districts must rely 
on new vendors still learning to make the needed supplies. In fact, 
getting enough thermometers for daily morning temperature checks might 
not be possible without a delay.&nbsp;

“We will really need to problem
 solve that to get that particular mandate in place,” Wichita Public 
Schools Superintendent Alicia Thompson said Tuesday at a KMUW Engage ICT
 panel.

Manhattan-Ogden Public Schools said it’ll be a close call getting deliveries in before the 2020-21 school year’s first bell.

It’s set to get the last of the 14,500 face masks it ordered Aug. 12 — the district’s first day of school.&nbsp;

The
 district’s bond and purchasing accountant Jamie Gregory said it hasn’t 
had trouble finding most of the equipment it needs, just that the timing
 is taking longer than usual.

The district has been relying on 
first-time sellers of hand sanitizers and other supplies, but not 
without pitfalls. Orders suddenly get canceled, products don’t always 
match what was promised. And there are no refunds.

"So you spend 
$20,000 on sanitizing wipes and they come in and they're not what you 
thought they're going to be, you've just wasted $20,000,” Gregory said.

Gregory said a three-week delay would have helped them better vet those orders.

Manhattan
 does expect its 600 gallons of hand sanitizer to last the rest of the 
school year. But when it comes to thermometers, Gregory said vendors 
were out of stock a month ago, before they were required for all Kansas 
schools.

“Every school district is doing the exact same thing, so you start to really weigh on your vendors,” Gregory said.

Districts
 also have to make physical changes to school buildings, changes that 
will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Some are putting in 
plexiglass on desks to function like sneeze guards at a buffet.

But
 it’s more than that: Districts must choose whether to cut off the flow 
to water fountains, install contactless water bottle refills or just 
give students their own fresh-filled water bottle each day. Some schools
 are updating their HVAC systems to better clean the air.

Federal
 coronavirus relief funding is available to use for the updates, and a 
few districts hope local counties will share some of their federal aid 
pie. But the schools will likely have to pay for the supplies 
themselves.

Beyond safety supplies, superintendents say that a 
three-week delay would have been more useful for training teachers and 
thinking about what could happen in the fall — from needing to do some 
lessons online or once again completely shutting down in-person classes.

“The
 time that we need is really for teachers to sit down and really plan,” 
said Kay Lewis, the superintendent of USD 258 Humboldt in southeastern 
Kansas. “We need to take some time to be able to have some 
conversations.”

Local school boards can choose to delay their 
reopening, regardless of the state board deciding not to do so 
statewide. But without a waiver approved by the state, districts will 
have to make up for lost instruction time by extending the school year 
into the summer or cutting short holiday breaks.

Stephan Bisaha reports on education and young adult life for KMUW and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/stevebisaha?lang=en">@stevebisaha</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595437684447.png" alt=" Chris Neal / For the Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption> Chris Neal / For the Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>By STEPHAN BISAHA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansas-schools-will-start-time-after-state-board-rejects-kelly-s-suggested-delay">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kansas — Kansas’ elementary, middle and 
high schools will reopen for in-person instruction in August, despite 
Gov. Laura Kelly’s push to delay the 2020-21 school year until after 
Labor Day.The Kansas State Board of Education voted 5-5 
Wednesday — the tie being enough to reject Kelly’s executive order that 
would have delayed the start by three weeks. Her order, which affected 
instruction and all extracurriculars, needed the board’s approval."The
 districts have been preparing for this and they are prepared,” board 
member Michelle Dombrosky said. "This needs to be a local decision."The
 proposed delay was one of several tactics Kelly and school districts 
were considering to protect educators and students returning to 
in-person classes. The Democratic governor wanted to give districts more
 time to implement reopening guidelines approved by the state school 
board last week, as well as get the supplies needed to keep students and
 staff safe and to see if the state could reverse its current spike in 
coronavirus cases.Kelly also mandated this week through an 
executive order — one that didn’t need board approval — that students, 
staff and teachers must wear masks and use hand sanitizer at least 
hourly. Districts have been spending the summer months buying gallons of
 hand sanitizer and thousands of masks.But Kelly’s order also 
requires that schools give everyone entering their buildings daily 
temperature checks. Demand for personal protective equipment has made it
 difficult to quickly obtain quality supplies, and districts must rely 
on new vendors still learning to make the needed supplies. In fact, 
getting enough thermometers for daily morning temperature checks might 
not be possible without a delay.&nbsp;“We will really need to problem
 solve that to get that particular mandate in place,” Wichita Public 
Schools Superintendent Alicia Thompson said Tuesday at a KMUW Engage ICT
 panel.<h2>‘You’ve just wasted $20,000’</h2>Manhattan-Ogden Public Schools said it’ll be a close call getting deliveries in before the 2020-21 school year’s first bell.It’s set to get the last of the 14,500 face masks it ordered Aug. 12 — the district’s first day of school.&nbsp;The
 district’s bond and purchasing accountant Jamie Gregory said it hasn’t 
had trouble finding most of the equipment it needs, just that the timing
 is taking longer than usual.The district has been relying on 
first-time sellers of hand sanitizers and other supplies, but not 
without pitfalls. Orders suddenly get canceled, products don’t always 
match what was promised. And there are no refunds."So you spend 
$20,000 on sanitizing wipes and they come in and they're not what you 
thought they're going to be, you've just wasted $20,000,” Gregory said.Gregory said a three-week delay would have helped them better vet those orders.Manhattan
 does expect its 600 gallons of hand sanitizer to last the rest of the 
school year. But when it comes to thermometers, Gregory said vendors 
were out of stock a month ago, before they were required for all Kansas 
schools.“Every school district is doing the exact same thing, so you start to really weigh on your vendors,” Gregory said.Changing the school buildingsDistricts
 also have to make physical changes to school buildings, changes that 
will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Some are putting in 
plexiglass on desks to function like sneeze guards at a buffet.But
 it’s more than that: Districts must choose whether to cut off the flow 
to water fountains, install contactless water bottle refills or just 
give students their own fresh-filled water bottle each day. Some schools
 are updating their HVAC systems to better clean the air.Federal
 coronavirus relief funding is available to use for the updates, and a 
few districts hope local counties will share some of their federal aid 
pie. But the schools will likely have to pay for the supplies 
themselves.Beyond safety supplies, superintendents say that a 
three-week delay would have been more useful for training teachers and 
thinking about what could happen in the fall — from needing to do some 
lessons online or once again completely shutting down in-person classes.“The
 time that we need is really for teachers to sit down and really plan,” 
said Kay Lewis, the superintendent of USD 258 Humboldt in southeastern 
Kansas. “We need to take some time to be able to have some 
conversations.”Local school boards can choose to delay their 
reopening, regardless of the state board deciding not to do so 
statewide. But without a waiver approved by the state, districts will 
have to make up for lost instruction time by extending the school year 
into the summer or cutting short holiday breaks.Stephan Bisaha reports on education and young adult life for KMUW and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/stevebisaha?lang=en">@stevebisaha</a>.

Kan. schools can start on time after state board rejects suggested delay

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays school board member Sophia Rose Young has resigned her position on the board.

She was not at the meeting Monday, but Board President Mike Walker announced he had received her resignation effective immediately.

She resigned becuase she has moved out of the district to Ellis.

The board is responsible for filling the position for remaining 17 months of Young's term.

Young was in her first term on the school board.

The board also conducted its annual reorganization Monday night.

The board re-elected Mike Walker to another term as board president.

Craig Pallister was elected as board vice president.

The board approved dropping the technology fee for HHS students from $50 to $25 per year. This would make total fees for HHS students $196 per student, $243 with a yearbook and Spirit Club.

Elementary and middle school fees remained the same.

The board also approved the 2020-21 student handbook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595437408347.jpeg" alt="Sophia Rose Young" />
 <figcaption>Sophia Rose Young</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays school board member Sophia Rose Young has resigned her position on the board.She was not at the meeting Monday, but Board President Mike Walker announced he had received her resignation effective immediately.She resigned becuase she has moved out of the district to Ellis.The board is responsible for filling the position for remaining 17 months of Young's term.Young was in her first term on the school board.<h2>Board reorganization</h2>The board also conducted its annual reorganization Monday night.The board re-elected Mike Walker to another term as board president.Craig Pallister was elected as board vice president.<h2>Student fees&nbsp;</h2>The board approved dropping the technology fee for HHS students from $50 to $25 per year. This would make total fees for HHS students $196 per student, $243 with a yearbook and Spirit Club.Elementary and middle school fees remained the same.The board also approved the 2020-21 student handbook.

Young resigns position on Hays USD 489 board, HHS fees reduced

The Hays Masonic Lodge, in Partnership with the Kansas Masonic Foundation, is raffling off a restored 1959 Chevy El Camino.  The car will be showcased at Hays Chevrolet from Wednesday through Friday and downtown Saturday morning, but the ticket sales run until next March. 

The cost of the ticket is $20, with $15 from each ticket sold by Hays Lodge returning to Ellis County. Tickets are available at Hays Chevrolet, downtown on Saturday, online at <a href="https://kansasmasonic.foundation/">https://kansasmasonic.foundation/</a> (please put Hays in the comment), or from members of the Hays Lodge 195, who can be contacted by calling (785) 625-3127, or on Facebook.

Over the four years that this statewide raffle has been held, $750,000 has been redistributed to local Lodges who then use the money for projects in their communities. For Hays Masonic Lodge #195, that means donations to the Community Assistance Center, the Firefighters Relief Association, to help them buy and display Hays' first fire truck, and to help fund a free cancer screening that is scheduled for August, along with other charitable projects that they do throughout the year. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595423142877.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Masonic Lodge, in Partnership with the Kansas Masonic Foundation, is raffling off a restored 1959 Chevy El Camino. The car will be showcased at Hays Chevrolet from Wednesday through Friday and downtown Saturday morning, but the ticket sales run until next March. The cost of the ticket is $20, with $15 from each ticket sold by Hays Lodge returning to Ellis County. Tickets are available at Hays Chevrolet, downtown on Saturday, online at <a href="https://kansasmasonic.foundation/">https://kansasmasonic.foundation/</a> (please put Hays in the comment), or from members of the Hays Lodge 195, who can be contacted by calling (785) 625-3127, or on Facebook.Over the four years that this statewide raffle has been held, $750,000 has been redistributed to local Lodges who then use the money for projects in their communities. For Hays Masonic Lodge #195, that means donations to the Community Assistance Center, the Firefighters Relief Association, to help them buy and display Hays' first fire truck, and to help fund a free cancer screening that is scheduled for August, along with other charitable projects that they do throughout the year.

Masons raffling classic car to fund community projects 

Children can be safe to return to school in the fall, but parents and schools will need to take precautions, a group of doctors from the University Kansas Health Systems said during a press conference Monday.

Not only is going back to school possible, but it is probably in the best interest of the children, the group said.

The team at the University of Kansas Health Systems invited&nbsp;Dr. Angie Myers, division director of Infectious Diseases; Dr. Jennifer Goldman,&nbsp;pediatric infectious diseases, from Children's Mercy Hospital; and Psychologist Danielle Johnson with the University of Kansas Health System, to discuss COVID-19 as children prepare to return to school in the fall.

Doctor: Children less likely to transmit disease than adults

Goldman said children are not being impacted by the virus the same as adults. Children's Mercy has tested more than 7,300 children with only 188 positives and two hospitalizations.

Goldman also cited a study out of South Korea that found children 9 and younger had very low transmission rates of COVID-19 to other people even within their own households.

Even though children are less likely to transmit the disease, Myers said if you have to care for a small child that has COVID-19, you still need to frequently clean high-touch surfaces, wash hands frequently, try to avoid kissing on the mouth or face, and try to avoid eating or drinking after each other. Depending on the age of the child, you may also choose to wear a mask at home.

Children still need hugs when they are sick, but a family may choose to designate one parent as a caregiver for an infected child, the doctors said.

Goldman said schools cover gaps for children, including providing nutrition, socialization and social services. Schools are also mandatory reporters for child abuse and neglect.

"We all acknowledge that in-person learning provides opportunities and support that remote learning just can't,"&nbsp;Goldman said. "We know all children don't have access to excellent internet and electronics to perform remote learning or potentially the safe environment that is needed to stay at home and learn effectively."

Schools, parents will need to take precautions

Goldman said she did think schools could reopen with in-person learning, but they would have to take significant precautions.

Some of the mitigating factors have been what the doctors have been preaching throughout the pandemic — physical distancing, mask wearing and screening.

The American Academy of Pediatrics said mask wearing can occur for children older than 2.

If a child has symptoms, they must not return to school until they can be evaluated for COVID-19,&nbsp;Goldman said. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has many symptoms that are the same as the common cold.

Is your child emotionally ready to go back to school?

Whether a child is psychologically ready to go back to school may depend on several factors, including if your child has a pre-existing condition, the child's age and if they are a worrisome child already,&nbsp;Johnson said.

"We already have some worrisome kids who are already nervous about going back to school," she said.

They are asking questions, such as "What if I get sick?" "What if I get my family sick?" and "What if I can't see my friends?"

"In talking to kiddos, I say there are some things we can't answer because we don't know. We don't have all the answers, but these are the things I am going to do to keep you safe," Johnson said.

Talk to kids about their role in staying safe

Johnson talks to her own children about how she wears a mask and face shield at work to keep herself safe. She said parents who decide to send their children back to school for in-person classes can talk to the children about things they can control to keep themselves safe like wearing masks,&nbsp; washing their hands and sneezing into their elbows.

She lets her youngest son, who is kindergarten, know Mom and Dad will take care of the big stuff and he just needs to concentrate on his role, which is going to school and learning his ABCs.

Johnson echoed some of Goldman's concerns, saying school is important to children's academic, social and emotional development, and that can't be replicated at home.

"By nature and design, having kiddos at school — if they are healthy and they can social distance — is the safest place they can be," she said. "Children's Mercy mentioned safety issues. We have seen the number of mandated [abuse and neglect] reports drop tremendously."

Johnson said children have reported being more sad since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Calls to suicide hotlines have increased, and Johnson said suicide attempts among youth have become more severe.

Many of those suicide survivors she sees in in-patient care are pointing to the impact of COVID-19 on their lives as a contributor to their attempts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595359506233.jpeg" alt="Dr.&nbsp;Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention; Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer; and&nbsp;Psychologist Danielle Johnson, all of the University of Kansas Health Systems, answer COVID-19 questions during a press conference on Monday." />
 <figcaption>Dr.&nbsp;Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention; Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer; and&nbsp;Psychologist Danielle Johnson, all of the University of Kansas Health Systems, answer COVID-19 questions during a press conference on Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostChildren can be safe to return to school in the fall, but parents and schools will need to take precautions, a group of doctors from the University Kansas Health Systems said during a press conference Monday.Not only is going back to school possible, but it is probably in the best interest of the children, the group said.The team at the University of Kansas Health Systems invited&nbsp;Dr. Angie Myers, division director of Infectious Diseases; Dr. Jennifer Goldman,&nbsp;pediatric infectious diseases, from Children's Mercy Hospital; and Psychologist Danielle Johnson with the University of Kansas Health System, to discuss COVID-19 as children prepare to return to school in the fall.<h2>Doctor: Children less likely to transmit disease than adults</h2>Goldman said children are not being impacted by the virus the same as adults. Children's Mercy has tested more than 7,300 children with only 188 positives and two hospitalizations.Goldman also cited a study out of South Korea that found children 9 and younger had very low transmission rates of COVID-19 to other people even within their own households.Even though children are less likely to transmit the disease, Myers said if you have to care for a small child that has COVID-19, you still need to frequently clean high-touch surfaces, wash hands frequently, try to avoid kissing on the mouth or face, and try to avoid eating or drinking after each other. Depending on the age of the child, you may also choose to wear a mask at home.Children still need hugs when they are sick, but a family may choose to designate one parent as a caregiver for an infected child, the doctors said.Goldman said schools cover gaps for children, including providing nutrition, socialization and social services. Schools are also mandatory reporters for child abuse and neglect."We all acknowledge that in-person learning provides opportunities and support that remote learning just can't,"&nbsp;Goldman said. "We know all children don't have access to excellent internet and electronics to perform remote learning or potentially the safe environment that is needed to stay at home and learn effectively."<h2>Schools, parents will need to take precautions</h2>Goldman said she did think schools could reopen with in-person learning, but they would have to take significant precautions.Some of the mitigating factors have been what the doctors have been preaching throughout the pandemic — physical distancing, mask wearing and screening.The American Academy of Pediatrics said mask wearing can occur for children older than 2.If a child has symptoms, they must not return to school until they can be evaluated for COVID-19,&nbsp;Goldman said. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has many symptoms that are the same as the common cold.<h2>Is your child emotionally ready to go back to school?</h2>Whether a child is psychologically ready to go back to school may depend on several factors, including if your child has a pre-existing condition, the child's age and if they are a worrisome child already,&nbsp;Johnson said."We already have some worrisome kids who are already nervous about going back to school," she said.They are asking questions, such as "What if I get sick?" "What if I get my family sick?" and "What if I can't see my friends?""In talking to kiddos, I say there are some things we can't answer because we don't know. We don't have all the answers, but these are the things I am going to do to keep you safe," Johnson said.<h2>Talk to kids about their role in staying safe</h2>Johnson talks to her own children about how she wears a mask and face shield at work to keep herself safe. She said parents who decide to send their children back to school for in-person classes can talk to the children about things they can control to keep themselves safe like wearing masks,&nbsp; washing their hands and sneezing into their elbows.She lets her youngest son, who is kindergarten, know Mom and Dad will take care of the big stuff and he just needs to concentrate on his role, which is going to school and learning his ABCs.Johnson echoed some of Goldman's concerns, saying school is important to children's academic, social and emotional development, and that can't be replicated at home."By nature and design, having kiddos at school — if they are healthy and they can social distance — is the safest place they can be," she said. "Children's Mercy mentioned safety issues. We have seen the number of mandated [abuse and neglect] reports drop tremendously."Johnson said children have reported being more sad since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Calls to suicide hotlines have increased, and Johnson said suicide attempts among youth have become more severe.Many of those suicide survivors she sees in in-patient care are pointing to the impact of COVID-19 on their lives as a contributor to their attempts.<h2>Make mask wearing fun</h2>Goldman said European and Australia schools have reopened and have shown that children can learn positive preventive routines.She said it is important to set expectations, such as mask wearing, early. Videos are available that encouraged kids to wear masks. She said you can make wearing a masks fun and positive by say it is like wearing a superhero costume."Kids are a lot more flexible than adults a lot of the time," she said.Goldman also encourages teachers to wear masks and try to social distance from students. She said school nurses need to be equipped with full personal protective equipment.<h2>Virus will likely not be contained when schools reopen</h2>One of the news conference listeners noted other countries had better containment of the virus when their children returned to school. She asked the doctors if we should return the school before the U.S. has containment of the virus.Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention, said the virus is exploding."We are seeing changes every day — new totals of daily deaths, new amounts of total daily cases. ... I don't know we are going to be able to temper down those rates anytime soon," he said.He encouraged everyone to wear masks and social distance. He said he thought the numbers could decrease, which could be helped if people wear masks, but not to the point officials may want by the start of school.Goldman said rapid testing will be needed for those children and staff who show symptoms of the illness.Hawkinson said Quest Diagnostics recently received approval for COVID-19 saliva testing, which should help as large number of students and staff return for classes. The University of Kansas announced it will test all students and staff as they return for fall classes.<h2>Doctor: Asthma, immunity not factor in kids contracting COVID-19</h2>A parent also asked what families should do about medically fragile children.&nbsp;Myers said the scientific literature indicates children with asthma are not at higher risk than children without asthma in terms of contracting COVID-19. Even children who have had transplants do not seem to have the illness worse than healthy children.However, factors such as heart disease or obesity can be risk factors for kids just as they are for adults.