By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher As the summer begins to wind down, the fall crops filling the fields are slowly transitioning into their displays of color. For my family, the corn and soybeans that exhibited lush greens throughout the summer months have hit their peak in regard to their place on a color wheel and are beginning to dry down in time to gather the grain. While these two crops nearing harvest possess a beauty within the rich warm colors of fall, they are currently being outdone by two of our other crops. &nbsp; Our grain sorghum has transitioned into a sea of warm brick-red heads of grain. The berries have truly made it a photographer’s dream to capture the rich, warm colors of autumn. It’s no wonder many families in my area plan their Christmas card pictures around this time as the colors show a special beauty similar to the days leading up to ripened wheat. &nbsp; Earlier this summer, after wheat harvest ended, my husband Adam went back into the fields combines had just run through and planted fall crops. In our area, it’s known as double-cropping. When my husband double-crops, he generally plants either soybeans or grain sorghum to be harvested this fall.&nbsp;This year, however, he added another crop into the double-cropping plan: sunflowers! And boy, oh, boy are they showcasing their fall beauty right now. &nbsp; This is the first year since I’ve lived in Kansas sunflowers have been planted anywhere on our farm. It’s taken 10 years for me to experience the anticipation and excitement associated with a field of sunflowers blooming.&nbsp; &nbsp; For weeks I have stopped by this field to see how close the crop was to blooming. For days I have peeked at the sunflower heads to see if I could identify hints of yellow appearing. This crop has been a definite tease for me. There have been days I have wondered if the flower heads would ever bloom. In fact, I have caught myself talking to this field aloud asking things like, “Are you guys ever going to bloom this year?” &nbsp; But overnight, the field of green plants have now blossomed into a bright and wonderful yellow that absolutely, without a doubt catches one’s attention. These sunflowers have become the belle of the ball this fall. &nbsp; I can’t help but stop my car and get out to walk into the field of these “sunnies.” It’s as if you are surrounded by thousands of smiles that instantly brighten your day. &nbsp; I know these beautiful blooms are temporary and will soon begin to dry down, but I will enjoy these fall flowers in all of their beauty for the time they have. Yes, while they only showcase their welcoming warmth for all to enjoy for a brief period, I will remember the magic and beauty of this crop long after their colors fade.

"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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher As the summer begins to wind down, the fall crops filling the fields are slowly transitioning into their displays of color. For my family, the corn and soybeans that exhibited lush greens throughout the summer months have hit their peak in regard to their place on a color wheel and are beginning to dry down in time to gather the grain. While these two crops nearing harvest possess a beauty within the rich warm colors of fall, they are currently being outdone by two of our other crops. &nbsp; Our grain sorghum has transitioned into a sea of warm brick-red heads of grain. The berries have truly made it a photographer’s dream to capture the rich, warm colors of autumn. It’s no wonder many families in my area plan their Christmas card pictures around this time as the colors show a special beauty similar to the days leading up to ripened wheat. &nbsp; Earlier this summer, after wheat harvest ended, my husband Adam went back into the fields combines had just run through and planted fall crops. In our area, it’s known as double-cropping. When my husband double-crops, he generally plants either soybeans or grain sorghum to be harvested this fall.&nbsp;This year, however, he added another crop into the double-cropping plan: sunflowers! And boy, oh, boy are they showcasing their fall beauty right now. &nbsp; This is the first year since I’ve lived in Kansas sunflowers have been planted anywhere on our farm. It’s taken 10 years for me to experience the anticipation and excitement associated with a field of sunflowers blooming.&nbsp; &nbsp; For weeks I have stopped by this field to see how close the crop was to blooming. For days I have peeked at the sunflower heads to see if I could identify hints of yellow appearing. This crop has been a definite tease for me. There have been days I have wondered if the flower heads would ever bloom. In fact, I have caught myself talking to this field aloud asking things like, “Are you guys ever going to bloom this year?” &nbsp; But overnight, the field of green plants have now blossomed into a bright and wonderful yellow that absolutely, without a doubt catches one’s attention. These sunflowers have become the belle of the ball this fall. &nbsp; I can’t help but stop my car and get out to walk into the field of these “sunnies.” It’s as if you are surrounded by thousands of smiles that instantly brighten your day. &nbsp; I know these beautiful blooms are temporary and will soon begin to dry down, but I will enjoy these fall flowers in all of their beauty for the time they have. Yes, while they only showcase their welcoming warmth for all to enjoy for a brief period, I will remember the magic and beauty of this crop long after their colors fade."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.&nbsp;

Kan. Farm Bureau Insight: Fall flowers on the farm

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Aaron Bernasconi, a Fort Hays State graduate and Senior Advisor to the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative in Washington.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Aaron Bernasconi" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ie88q-eac3f6?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Aaron Bernasconi, a Fort Hays State graduate and Senior Advisor to the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative in Washington.

🎤Forward Ever: Aaron Bernasconi, Senior Advisor to the Deputy USTR 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After only one full week of school, Hays USD 489 has had COVID-19 cases reported at all schools and has had to move to remote learning at Hays Middle School.

No classes were conducted Tuesday at HMS. Students were set to be in remote learning Wednesday through Friday.

Superintendent Ron Wilson via email Tuesday said he did not want to report the number of cases at each location, citing privacy and confidentiality.&nbsp;

He said all of the cases at HMS were staff members.

"... the issue we faced at the middle school this week was that we did not have enough substitutes to cover all of our staff that were in either isolation or quarantine," Wilson said.

"As a district, we are committed to keeping kids on-site, but unfortunately due to staffing issues, we were forced to remote this week to give staff time to get healthy and get through their quarantine periods. We continue to look for more substitutes that can help us get through this school year, so we can avoid having to go remote due to staffing issues."

Wilson said several staff members either tested positive or were being asked to quarantine due to possible close contact. By giving additional time away from the building, Wilson said he hoped to slow down any possible transmission of the virus that seemed to affecting the middle school.

Wilson told the school board at its August meeting finding substitutes would be a challenge this school year. The district increased substitute teacher pay to try to entice more potential substitutes to apply.

Substitute applicants are not required to have teaching certificates. You can apply for an emergency substitute license if you have 60 hours of college credit or more. More information can be found on the district's <a href="https://usd489.applicantportal.com/applicant/login.php?ReturnURL=home.php?id=3">jobs portal</a>.&nbsp;

Wilson said changing learning models has been difficult.

"It still continues to be a challenge to once again to have to pivot  so quickly to online learning, because we know that these kind of changes impact those that are connected to HMS greatly," he said.

"We are hoping to avoid these types of situations, but we also understand that we will need to look specifically at each school and how the virus is impacting students and staff that week. 

"Our goal with any short-term remote learning option is to keep students engaged and connected with their teachers and school. We just continue to ask for patience, flexibility and grace as we work through these daily challenges."

In regards to the other schools, Wilson said the district has had COVID cases reported at "all of our schools in various ways."

"However, &nbsp;with the safety protocols that we have put in place, we have managed to continue to operate with minimal disruption to our schools," he said. "We understand that this virus will not be going away soon, and we will have to continue to figure out the best ways to navigate with the lowest impact on students, staff and our schools."

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter only one full week of school, Hays USD 489 has had COVID-19 cases reported at all schools and has had to move to remote learning at Hays Middle School.No classes were conducted Tuesday at HMS. Students were set to be in remote learning Wednesday through Friday.Superintendent Ron Wilson via email Tuesday said he did not want to report the number of cases at each location, citing privacy and confidentiality.&nbsp;He said all of the cases at HMS were staff members."... the issue we faced at the middle school this week was that we did not have enough substitutes to cover all of our staff that were in either isolation or quarantine," Wilson said."As a district, we are committed to keeping kids on-site, but unfortunately due to staffing issues, we were forced to remote this week to give staff time to get healthy and get through their quarantine periods. We continue to look for more substitutes that can help us get through this school year, so we can avoid having to go remote due to staffing issues."Wilson said several staff members either tested positive or were being asked to quarantine due to possible close contact. By giving additional time away from the building, Wilson said he hoped to slow down any possible transmission of the virus that seemed to affecting the middle school.Wilson told the school board at its August meeting finding substitutes would be a challenge this school year. The district increased substitute teacher pay to try to entice more potential substitutes to apply.Substitute applicants are not required to have teaching certificates. You can apply for an emergency substitute license if you have 60 hours of college credit or more. More information can be found on the district's <a href="https://usd489.applicantportal.com/applicant/login.php?ReturnURL=home.php?id=3">jobs portal</a>.&nbsp;Wilson said changing learning models has been difficult."It still continues to be a challenge to once again to have to pivot so quickly to online learning, because we know that these kind of changes impact those that are connected to HMS greatly," he said."We are hoping to avoid these types of situations, but we also understand that we will need to look specifically at each school and how the virus is impacting students and staff that week. "Our goal with any short-term remote learning option is to keep students engaged and connected with their teachers and school. We just continue to ask for patience, flexibility and grace as we work through these daily challenges."In regards to the other schools, Wilson said the district has had COVID cases reported at "all of our schools in various ways.""However, &nbsp;with the safety protocols that we have put in place, we have managed to continue to operate with minimal disruption to our schools," he said. "We understand that this virus will not be going away soon, and we will have to continue to figure out the best ways to navigate with the lowest impact on students, staff and our schools."

USD 489: COVID cases reported at 'all of our schools in various ways'

Beginning Wednesday, USD 489 Nutrition Services will be utilizing the waiver from USDA to offer free meals to all students.

Students will have the option to receive breakfast and lunch at school, free of charge through December 2020, or until USDA informs the district otherwise.

Students do not need to fill out any paperwork to receive the free meals at this time, said Jessica Younker, USD 489 director of Nutrition Services.

This includes students who are learning on-site and remotely.

USD 489 usually provides 2,400 meals per day to students. This includes the Early Childhood Center, Younker said.

Students who have opted in to the parent choice remote learning should have already received information about picking meals up.&nbsp;

Hays Middle School students will be attending remotely through Friday. There will be a drive-through meal option at HMS for HMS students through Friday while the school is in remote learning.

Younker said the USDA funds have given school districts relief from processing paperwork as well as the ability to provide meals to families who may be struggling financially but do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

A la carte options will still be available for high school and middle schools (during on-site learning only) and charged to their meal accounts.

All money placed on the meal accounts will carry over until regular meal prices resume.

Students who qualify for free or reduced meals will also carry over that status.

If you have not yet applied, but you may qualify for free or reduced-cost meals, please complete the application as soon as possible. It can help your school now and help you second semester. Apply online at <a href="http://www.ezmealapp.com">www.ezmealapp.com</a>.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostBeginning Wednesday, USD 489 Nutrition Services will be utilizing the waiver from USDA to offer free meals to all students.Students will have the option to receive breakfast and lunch at school, free of charge through December 2020, or until USDA informs the district otherwise.Students do not need to fill out any paperwork to receive the free meals at this time, said Jessica Younker, USD 489 director of Nutrition Services.This includes students who are learning on-site and remotely.USD 489 usually provides 2,400 meals per day to students. This includes the Early Childhood Center, Younker said.Students who have opted in to the parent choice remote learning should have already received information about picking meals up.&nbsp;Hays Middle School students will be attending remotely through Friday. There will be a drive-through meal option at HMS for HMS students through Friday while the school is in remote learning.Younker said the USDA funds have given school districts relief from processing paperwork as well as the ability to provide meals to families who may be struggling financially but do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals.A la carte options will still be available for high school and middle schools (during on-site learning only) and charged to their meal accounts.All money placed on the meal accounts will carry over until regular meal prices resume.Students who qualify for free or reduced meals will also carry over that status.If you have not yet applied, but you may qualify for free or reduced-cost meals, please complete the application as soon as possible. It can help your school now and help you second semester. Apply online at <a href="http://www.ezmealapp.com">www.ezmealapp.com</a>.

USDA funds allow USD 489 to provide free meals to all students

A local furniture showroom is expanding its footprint in Hays with more warehouse space and a discount retail offering.

Braden Miller, manager and owner of the Ashley HomeStore in Hays, said the store, 2702 Vine, has been so busy, it needs space to expand. Both the new Furniture Clearance Center and Ashley HomeStore in Hays, are affiliated with Miller's of Claflin.

The Ashley HomeStore has been in Hays 14 years.

Miller has entered into a 15-year lease at 3300 Vine St., the former Hasting's Building next to Hobby Lobby.

About 65 percent of the 25,000-square-foot building will be used for warehouse space.

Miller said people don't want to wait weeks for furniture any more. He called it the "Amazon effect."

He said the additional warehouse space will allow the local store to deliver furniture in days instead of weeks.

"Now were are going to be 70 to 80 percent in stock," Miller said. "If you order from my HomeStore, mostly it will be available for pick up that day or next day deliver on almost all of our products."

The showroom space will be used to showcase items at reasonable price points. These may be discontinued items, scratch and dent, as well as non-Ashley lines that can't be featured in the main showroom in Hays.

The HomeStore can only carry Ashley products, but the Clearance Center will be able to carry Flexsteel, La-Z-Boy, Best, Klaussner, Chrome Cast caster chairs and other brand names, Miller said.

"We have a Furniture Clearance Center in Salina, and it has done amazing," he said. "We are going to have all kinds of price points and incredible deals and buys that we can get and retail out of the front half of this store."

Miller said he thought the Clearance Center will be a good option for college students.

"I think we are going to have a really good product here — nothing used,  but really good price points where people can get $150 to $200 sofas that are still brand new, but may be discontinued."

The new space is being renovated. An overhead door was added for truck deliveries, and two walls were knocked out to open up warehouse space.

The store is also still receiving stock for its retail space.

Miller said he hopes to have a soft opening for the new showroom by early October. A grand opening will follow later in October.

"The community of Hays since we opened the store here has been incredibly unbelievable," Miller said. "Western Kansans have come. They have given us a shot over some of the bigger boys like the Nebraska Furniture Mart. 

"Having this and product in stock and valuable price points is our way of giving back to the community. We are committed to Hays, and we are definitely going to be here to stay."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599251383742.jpeg" alt="The Furniture Clearance Center, which is affiliated with&nbsp;Miller's of Claflin and the Ashley HomeStore in Hays, is set to open in early October at 3300 Vine St., Hays." />
 <figcaption>The Furniture Clearance Center, which is affiliated with&nbsp;Miller's of Claflin and the Ashley HomeStore in Hays, is set to open in early October at 3300 Vine St., Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA local furniture showroom is expanding its footprint in Hays with more warehouse space and a discount retail offering.Braden Miller, manager and owner of the Ashley HomeStore in Hays, said the store, 2702 Vine, has been so busy, it needs space to expand. Both the new Furniture Clearance Center and Ashley HomeStore in Hays, are affiliated with Miller's of Claflin.The Ashley HomeStore has been in Hays 14 years.Miller has entered into a 15-year lease at 3300 Vine St., the former Hasting's Building next to Hobby Lobby.About 65 percent of the 25,000-square-foot building will be used for warehouse space.Miller said people don't want to wait weeks for furniture any more. He called it the "Amazon effect."He said the additional warehouse space will allow the local store to deliver furniture in days instead of weeks."Now were are going to be 70 to 80 percent in stock," Miller said. "If you order from my HomeStore, mostly it will be available for pick up that day or next day deliver on almost all of our products."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599254586956.jpeg" alt="Furniture Clearance Center will have a showroom with items at reasonable price points, as well as provide warehouse space for the Ashley HomeStore in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Furniture Clearance Center will have a showroom with items at reasonable price points, as well as provide warehouse space for the Ashley HomeStore in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>The showroom space will be used to showcase items at reasonable price points. These may be discontinued items, scratch and dent, as well as non-Ashley lines that can't be featured in the main showroom in Hays.The HomeStore can only carry Ashley products, but the Clearance Center will be able to carry Flexsteel, La-Z-Boy, Best, Klaussner, Chrome Cast caster chairs and other brand names, Miller said."We have a Furniture Clearance Center in Salina, and it has done amazing," he said. "We are going to have all kinds of price points and incredible deals and buys that we can get and retail out of the front half of this store."Miller said he thought the Clearance Center will be a good option for college students."I think we are going to have a really good product here — nothing used, but really good price points where people can get $150 to $200 sofas that are still brand new, but may be discontinued."The new space is being renovated. An overhead door was added for truck deliveries, and two walls were knocked out to open up warehouse space.The store is also still receiving stock for its retail space.Miller said he hopes to have a soft opening for the new showroom by early October. A grand opening will follow later in October."The community of Hays since we opened the store here has been incredibly unbelievable," Miller said. "Western Kansans have come. They have given us a shot over some of the bigger boys like the Nebraska Furniture Mart. "Having this and product in stock and valuable price points is our way of giving back to the community. We are committed to Hays, and we are definitely going to be here to stay."

Ashley expands warehouse space, to open Furniture Clearance Center

Residents from all over the area came together in Frontier Park on Saturday for the fourth annual Thunder on the Plains car show.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3f1800c6-bf41-404e-b872-7bc4e57d836d">While the event was slightly subdued this year due to uncertainty surrounding COVID-19,</a> visitors and participants alike enjoyed the nice weather and impressive machines.

Take a look at some of the entries below.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostResidents from all over the area came together in Frontier Park on Saturday for the fourth annual Thunder on the Plains car show.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3f1800c6-bf41-404e-b872-7bc4e57d836d">While the event was slightly subdued this year due to uncertainty surrounding COVID-19,</a> visitors and participants alike enjoyed the nice weather and impressive machines.Take a look at some of the entries below.<figure>
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Area residents turn out for Thunder on the Plains

While most Kansans were looking forward to the three-day Labor Day weekend, a small group of legislators last week in a quiet committee room on the 5th&nbsp;floor of the Statehouse moved forward with a plan to spend $5 million to bring nearly 2,500 new jobs to Kansas.

Those new jobs, and new buildings and such – and the taxes that will be paid by those businesses and their workers – are what fuel the Kansas economy that makes us all more prosperous.

That meeting? It was the Legislative Budget Committee, and it approved and will now urge the Legislative Coordinating Council to send $5 million in coronavirus recovery funds to the Kansas Department of Commerce to close deals that will bring $243 million of investment and construction and those jobs which are expected to pay an average of $48,000 a year to the state.

Kansas Secretary of Commerce David Toland told the panel that his agency is about out of money in its Job Creation Fund, which it uses to lure businesses and their positive effect on the Kansas economy to the state.

Most of us don’t think about the Department of Commerce much, and there are no support groups or GoFundMe accounts that provide the agency with the last few bucks, the little incidental costs to locating a business in Kansas, that close deals for new development and jobs.

That $5 million will help the state close those deals and provide jobs across the state. Mostly in central and eastern Kansas, though one deal that is in the air is in western Kansas. Nope, Toland isn’t naming those close-to-done deals for fear of competition from other states which also want new jobs and businesses, but they are getting close.

And, Toland said, Commerce access to that closing-the-deal money adds to the near sudden increase in interest by many companies to move facilities to Kansas, partly for its center-of-the-nation location and highway system which make the state a convenient and economic place to put down a plant or warehouse for national marketing.

Oh, and there are also those smart, reliable, and dedicated workers – that would be Kansans – who populate the state.

Now, the Legislature has been a little protective of the money it has appropriated to itself for response to wide ranges of COVID-19 effects, such as assistance to existing businesses struck by the pandemic, job losses, and the need to generate more jobs for Kansans.

Seem like a good use for the legislature’s rebuild-the-economy and protect Kansans money, doesn’t it?

Toland said that Kansas now has eco-devo prospectors on both coasts to urge businesses to relocate here. The nature of American commerce has changed through the pandemic with more on-line shopping that can be served from relatively low-cost mid-continent facilities. It’s the change from being a “fly over” state to one that has economic advantages for a wide range of companies for which Kansas can be a money-saver and profit-boosting place to put a business.

It’s just that little Job Creation Fund that can provide the services or few additional bucks to close those deals, which is where Toland and most Kansans want us to be.

Look for the Legislature to OK the money, and&nbsp; then we’ll see just what new businesses are coming to the state…and whether it means the kids can find work close to home instead of moving to the coast…

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592848178110.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>While most Kansans were looking forward to the three-day Labor Day weekend, a small group of legislators last week in a quiet committee room on the 5th&nbsp;floor of the Statehouse moved forward with a plan to spend $5 million to bring nearly 2,500 new jobs to Kansas.Those new jobs, and new buildings and such – and the taxes that will be paid by those businesses and their workers – are what fuel the Kansas economy that makes us all more prosperous.That meeting? It was the Legislative Budget Committee, and it approved and will now urge the Legislative Coordinating Council to send $5 million in coronavirus recovery funds to the Kansas Department of Commerce to close deals that will bring $243 million of investment and construction and those jobs which are expected to pay an average of $48,000 a year to the state.Not a bad investment, is it?Kansas Secretary of Commerce David Toland told the panel that his agency is about out of money in its Job Creation Fund, which it uses to lure businesses and their positive effect on the Kansas economy to the state.Most of us don’t think about the Department of Commerce much, and there are no support groups or GoFundMe accounts that provide the agency with the last few bucks, the little incidental costs to locating a business in Kansas, that close deals for new development and jobs.That $5 million will help the state close those deals and provide jobs across the state. Mostly in central and eastern Kansas, though one deal that is in the air is in western Kansas. Nope, Toland isn’t naming those close-to-done deals for fear of competition from other states which also want new jobs and businesses, but they are getting close.And, Toland said, Commerce access to that closing-the-deal money adds to the near sudden increase in interest by many companies to move facilities to Kansas, partly for its center-of-the-nation location and highway system which make the state a convenient and economic place to put down a plant or warehouse for national marketing.Oh, and there are also those smart, reliable, and dedicated workers – that would be Kansans – who populate the state.Now, the Legislature has been a little protective of the money it has appropriated to itself for response to wide ranges of COVID-19 effects, such as assistance to existing businesses struck by the pandemic, job losses, and the need to generate more jobs for Kansans.Seem like a good use for the legislature’s rebuild-the-economy and protect Kansans money, doesn’t it?Toland said that Kansas now has eco-devo prospectors on both coasts to urge businesses to relocate here. The nature of American commerce has changed through the pandemic with more on-line shopping that can be served from relatively low-cost mid-continent facilities. It’s the change from being a “fly over” state to one that has economic advantages for a wide range of companies for which Kansas can be a money-saver and profit-boosting place to put a business.It’s just that little Job Creation Fund that can provide the services or few additional bucks to close those deals, which is where Toland and most Kansans want us to be.Look for the Legislature to OK the money, and&nbsp; then we’ll see just what new businesses are coming to the state…and whether it means the kids can find work close to home instead of moving to the coast…Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

HAWVER: 'Closing the deal' on economic development

&nbsp;Is that runny nose and cough COVID or just your run-of-the-mill seasonal allergies?

Doctors at the University of Kansas Health System tried to give viewers tips on how to distinguish between the two during their daily news briefing Wednesday.

Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer, and Dr.&nbsp;Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, were joined by&nbsp;Dr. Selina Gierer, specialist in&nbsp;allergy, immunology and rheumatology medicine, and&nbsp;ear, nose and throat surgeon Dr. Keith Sale.

Gierer said Kansas has reached its peak allergy season. Children are also returning to school and can be exposed to viral infections.

&nbsp;"It is always a challenge when we go back to school when kids get any viral infection on top of season allergies trying to pick a part what's an illness and what is an allergy symptom," she said.

Itchy and water eyes as well as sneezing are common symptoms of allergies, but not of COVID-19.

Then there is an overlap zone for both allergies and COVID,&nbsp;Gierer said.

These include cough, fatigue, headache, sore throat, shortness of breath and runny nose.&nbsp;

"Ultimately, if you are having fever, if your symptoms are not typical for your allergy symptoms,"&nbsp;Gierer said, "perhaps this is not a typical allergy season for you.

"If you are having cough, if you are having congestion and you are having change in your sense of smell, it's time for you to be thinking about contacting your doctor to get tested for coronavirus."

She suggested keeping control of your allergy symptoms and avoiding people who are sick.&nbsp;

Monitor your triggers, such as dust, mold, pollen or animals. Monitor the local pollen count. Stay on your allergy medications.

&nbsp;"If you know you are going to be doing yard work, and the next day you feel itchy and drippy and sneezy, you can probably attribute that to your allergies and not an acute onset of coronavirus,"&nbsp;Gierer said.

Asthma is an underlying medical condition that increases the likelihood of complications from coronavirus. However, it is on the lower end of the range of complicating factors.

Asthma is much less common to cause complications than obesity and hypertension,&nbsp;Gierer said.

However, one of the biggest triggers of asthma is a viral infection. She said it is also important to keep your asthma under control by staying on medications, avoiding triggers and keeping a 30-day supply of medication on hand.

Dr. Sale saw a patient in his clinic who was having typical symptoms for allergies, such as a runny nose, but was not getting better on her normal medications.

She thought she had a sinus infection or something else. A friend from out of town had visited the week before. She was tested for COVID and was surprised with a positive COVID test, Sale said.

Sale said his office is taking COVID precautions, including using PPE, hand sanitizing between patients and patients wearing masks unless their nose or mouth is being examined.

Gierer said allergy medication or a rescue inhaler will probably not help with COVID-19 symptoms.&nbsp;

Sale said fatigue may be common to both allergies and COVID, but the persistence of the symptom may be a sign of the later.

Gierer said, "If the allergy medications are not working, that might trigger you to think there is something else going on."

Hawkinson said scientists are working to combine testing for flu and COVID-19. He said if a patient has a nasal swab for COVID-19, a lab could use that same sample to test for flu and RSV.

RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults, according the Centers for Disease Control.

The flu season is in full swing in South Africa and Australia and has been lighter this year there than in years past,&nbsp;Hawkinson said. He said that could be in part to mask use and increased hand washing.

KU Med is working on mass flu vaccination at this time.

Gierer urged members of the public to get flu vaccines. That is usually recommended starting in October.

The doctors also gave tips on staying in good general health.

You can naturally boost your immune system by getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy diet, as well as hand washing and staying away from people who are sick.

Those tips can help with COVID-19, flu or RSV.

Sale also said caring for your mental health can have an effect on maintaining physical health, which includes socializing in a safe way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599169301607.png" alt="LEFT to RIGHT: Dr. Dana Hawkinson, University of Kansas Health Center medical director of infection prevention and control; Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer; and&nbsp;Dr. Selina Gierer, specialist in allergy, immunology and rheumatology medicine." />
 <figcaption>LEFT to RIGHT: Dr. Dana Hawkinson, University of Kansas Health Center medical director of infection prevention and control; Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer; and&nbsp;Dr. Selina Gierer, specialist in allergy, immunology and rheumatology medicine.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;Is that runny nose and cough COVID or just your run-of-the-mill seasonal allergies?Doctors at the University of Kansas Health System tried to give viewers tips on how to distinguish between the two during their daily news briefing Wednesday.Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer, and Dr.&nbsp;Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, were joined by&nbsp;Dr. Selina Gierer, specialist in&nbsp;allergy, immunology and rheumatology medicine, and&nbsp;ear, nose and throat surgeon Dr. Keith Sale.Gierer said Kansas has reached its peak allergy season. Children are also returning to school and can be exposed to viral infections.&nbsp;"It is always a challenge when we go back to school when kids get any viral infection on top of season allergies trying to pick a part what's an illness and what is an allergy symptom," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599167247033.png" alt="COVID vs. allergies.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>COVID vs. allergies.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Itchy and water eyes as well as sneezing are common symptoms of allergies, but not of COVID-19.Then there is an overlap zone for both allergies and COVID,&nbsp;Gierer said.These include cough, fatigue, headache, sore throat, shortness of breath and runny nose.&nbsp;"Ultimately, if you are having fever, if your symptoms are not typical for your allergy symptoms,"&nbsp;Gierer said, "perhaps this is not a typical allergy season for you."If you are having cough, if you are having congestion and you are having change in your sense of smell, it's time for you to be thinking about contacting your doctor to get tested for coronavirus."She suggested keeping control of your allergy symptoms and avoiding people who are sick.&nbsp;Monitor your triggers, such as dust, mold, pollen or animals. Monitor the local pollen count. Stay on your allergy medications.&nbsp;"If you know you are going to be doing yard work, and the next day you feel itchy and drippy and sneezy, you can probably attribute that to your allergies and not an acute onset of coronavirus,"&nbsp;Gierer said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599168039531.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Asthma is an underlying medical condition that increases the likelihood of complications from coronavirus. However, it is on the lower end of the range of complicating factors.Asthma is much less common to cause complications than obesity and hypertension,&nbsp;Gierer said.However, one of the biggest triggers of asthma is a viral infection. She said it is also important to keep your asthma under control by staying on medications, avoiding triggers and keeping a 30-day supply of medication on hand.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599169497852.png" alt="Dr. Keith Sale" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Keith Sale</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Sale saw a patient in his clinic who was having typical symptoms for allergies, such as a runny nose, but was not getting better on her normal medications.She thought she had a sinus infection or something else. A friend from out of town had visited the week before. She was tested for COVID and was surprised with a positive COVID test, Sale said.Sale said his office is taking COVID precautions, including using PPE, hand sanitizing between patients and patients wearing masks unless their nose or mouth is being examined.Gierer said allergy medication or a rescue inhaler will probably not help with COVID-19 symptoms.&nbsp;Sale said fatigue may be common to both allergies and COVID, but the persistence of the symptom may be a sign of the later.Gierer said, "If the allergy medications are not working, that might trigger you to think there is something else going on."Hawkinson said scientists are working to combine testing for flu and COVID-19. He said if a patient has a nasal swab for COVID-19, a lab could use that same sample to test for flu and RSV.RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults, according the Centers for Disease Control.The flu season is in full swing in South Africa and Australia and has been lighter this year there than in years past,&nbsp;Hawkinson said. He said that could be in part to mask use and increased hand washing.KU Med is working on mass flu vaccination at this time.Gierer urged members of the public to get flu vaccines. That is usually recommended starting in October.The doctors also gave tips on staying in good general health.You can naturally boost your immune system by getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy diet, as well as hand washing and staying away from people who are sick.Those tips can help with COVID-19, flu or RSV.Sale also said caring for your mental health can have an effect on maintaining physical health, which includes socializing in a safe way.

Allergies vs. COVID: KU doctors give tips on knowing the difference

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported 112 new cases of COVID-19 in the county has been identified since Friday.

There are now 223 active cases, including four active hospitalizations, with 418 recovered cases.&nbsp;

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests was just less than 17 percent. Overall, 13 percent of the 4,929 test results returned positive for COVID-19.

Since reporting began, Ellis County has identified 642 total cases of coronavirus, including one death.

The department updates figures Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with Monday's report showing the largest increase between reports.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b383a62a-c62b-48c4-9f3d-f3f9989d9066">RELATED: Hays Middle School on Monday announced a revised remote learning calendar for the remainder of this week.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599505521834.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported 112 new cases of COVID-19 in the county has been identified since Friday.There are now 223 active cases, including four active hospitalizations, with 418 recovered cases.&nbsp;The seven-day average of percent of positive tests was just less than 17 percent. Overall, 13 percent of the 4,929 test results returned positive for COVID-19.Since reporting began, Ellis County has identified 642 total cases of coronavirus, including one death.The department updates figures Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with Monday's report showing the largest increase between reports.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b383a62a-c62b-48c4-9f3d-f3f9989d9066">RELATED: Hays Middle School on Monday announced a revised remote learning calendar for the remainder of this week.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599505408666.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

112 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Ellis County since Friday

Three-day weather outlook

2 adults, 3 teens hospitalized after NW Kansas crash

Due to the number of Hays Middle School students and staff in isolation or quarantine, USD 489 announced schedule changes in a news release Monday.

There will be no school Tuesday for students, with teachers reporting to work for planning and training.&nbsp;

Wednesday through Friday will be remote learning for students, and all student activities and athletics will be canceled for the week.

On-site learning is scheduled to resume Monday, Sept. 14.

Due to the number of Hays Middle School students and staff in isolation or quarantine, USD 489 announced schedule changes in a news release Monday.There will be no school Tuesday for students, with teachers reporting to work for planning and training.&nbsp;Wednesday through Friday will be remote learning for students, and all student activities and athletics will be canceled for the week.On-site learning is scheduled to resume Monday, Sept. 14.Read the complete release below:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599493228264.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

No school Tuesday, remote learning through Friday at HMS

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

"This piece of art belongs to all of you and it's here for you to touch."

Hays native John T. Bird, 72, is sharing his love of trains alongside his interest in art with the entire community.

Bird recently purchased a 300-pound limestone locomotive carved from native Kansas post rock by renowned local sculptor Pete Felten, another Hays native.

Bird donated the sculpture to the city of Hays in a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday at the Downtown Hays Pavilion. The pavilion is located in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main, next to the railroad tracks.

Felten left the stone's natural flaws and fossils intact. Bird loves the minor imperfections.

"He worked around the 200-million-year-old stone worn by the bodies of tiny little sea creatures that fell to the bottom of the Kansas sea and became stone," Bird told the crowd.&nbsp; "It's the same stone you see buildings around us built out of," including his own law office.&nbsp;

Bird said he happily watched many trains pass by his family farm when he was a boy.&nbsp;

Felten replicated features of a 1890s steam-powered locomotive in his hand-chiseled carving, pointing out the details as Bird considered its purchase.

"He told me how this part is where they put sand, so that when they went up an incline they could drop sand down on the rail and gain traction.&nbsp; This is where they put the water. This is the coal that they hauled across the prairie so they had the fuel to continue to go out to Colorado to pick up the next load.

"And behind it were the cars, he told me, that hauled probably the timber for the building that my law office is in now."

Bird knew he had to have the sculpture. He also knew he had to share it.

"This pavilion is a gathering place. Even in today's tough times, this is a place we can come.

"Visitors to our community will see this piece of art and they'll appreciate the fact that Hays, and the railroad, the people who live here, are all part of one big family.

"I hope this beautiful piece of art will continue to be here for people to look at and touch ... for another&nbsp;hundred million years," Bird said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2b536a10-db18-433d-8354-9d7a69999aab">RELATED CONTENT: Pete Felten talks about his work</a>

Felten, 87, continues carving and selling his limestone art. Many of his public sculptures can be found throughout Hays and in the Kansas state capitol building. His work is also in many private homes and businesses.

A modest man, Felten did not attend the dedication ceremony.

His close friend and fellow artist, Bruce Burkholder, spoke about Felten's creativity.

"Maybe for the new generation or people that don't want to pay any attention to it, maybe we can open our eyes to our history through this.

"Pete has graced me. He has graced the city through his fine work," Burkholder said.

The artwork sits at the northwest end of the pavilion.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599239930563.jpeg" alt="A limestone train locomotive by Pete Felten and donated by John T. Bird is installed in the Downtown Hays Pavilion.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A limestone train locomotive by Pete Felten and donated by John T. Bird is installed in the Downtown Hays Pavilion.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"This piece of art belongs to all of you and it's here for you to touch."Hays native John T. Bird, 72, is sharing his love of trains alongside his interest in art with the entire community.Bird recently purchased a 300-pound limestone locomotive carved from native Kansas post rock by renowned local sculptor Pete Felten, another Hays native.Bird donated the sculpture to the city of Hays in a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday at the Downtown Hays Pavilion. The pavilion is located in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main, next to the railroad tracks.Felten left the stone's natural flaws and fossils intact. Bird loves the minor imperfections."He worked around the 200-million-year-old stone worn by the bodies of tiny little sea creatures that fell to the bottom of the Kansas sea and became stone," Bird told the crowd.&nbsp; "It's the same stone you see buildings around us built out of," including his own law office.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IlH5GS4INYs"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bird said he happily watched many trains pass by his family farm when he was a boy.&nbsp;Felten replicated features of a 1890s steam-powered locomotive in his hand-chiseled carving, pointing out the details as Bird considered its purchase."He told me how this part is where they put sand, so that when they went up an incline they could drop sand down on the rail and gain traction.&nbsp; This is where they put the water. This is the coal that they hauled across the prairie so they had the fuel to continue to go out to Colorado to pick up the next load."And behind it were the cars, he told me, that hauled probably the timber for the building that my law office is in now."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599240916772.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bird knew he had to have the sculpture. He also knew he had to share it."This pavilion is a gathering place. Even in today's tough times, this is a place we can come."Visitors to our community will see this piece of art and they'll appreciate the fact that Hays, and the railroad, the people who live here, are all part of one big family.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599238208850.jpeg" alt="Bird encourages visitors to touch the sculpture carved from ancient limestone.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bird encourages visitors to touch the sculpture carved from ancient limestone.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"I hope this beautiful piece of art will continue to be here for people to look at and touch ... for another&nbsp;hundred million years," Bird said.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2b536a10-db18-433d-8354-9d7a69999aab">RELATED CONTENT: Pete Felten talks about his work</a>Felten, 87, continues carving and selling his limestone art. Many of his public sculptures can be found throughout Hays and in the Kansas state capitol building. His work is also in many private homes and businesses.A modest man, Felten did not attend the dedication ceremony.His close friend and fellow artist, Bruce Burkholder, spoke about Felten's creativity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599240201856.jpeg" alt="Bruce Burkholder" />
 <figcaption>Bruce Burkholder</figcaption>
 </figure>"Maybe for the new generation or people that don't want to pay any attention to it, maybe we can open our eyes to our history through this."Pete has graced me. He has graced the city through his fine work," Burkholder said.The artwork sits at the northwest end of the pavilion.&nbsp;

🎥 Donated train sculpture dedicated in Union Pacific Park

<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="New business popping up around Hays" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/dwv6r-ea39a8?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: New business popping up around Hays

&nbsp;It seems September 1st is the magic date when Kansas hunting seasons begin to flourish. Dove season is perhaps the best known and most popular, but Sept 1 also ushers in various archery, muzzle loader and special disabled hunting seasons for antelope, elk and deer; too many to list here, but view the whole lineup at the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website, <a href="http://www.ksoutdoors.com">www.ksoutdoors.com</a>.

There are myriads of acres of sunflowers, both domestically grown and wild in which to hunt doves here in Kansas. A very popular and effective strategy employed by many hunters is to set up early-morning or late-evening near water sources that are in or around sunflower fields and patches, as birds will stop there to drink prior to and after feeding. When the countryside is dry like it has been around here recently, that works well, as those remaining water sources become choke points where doves congregate from miles around.&nbsp;

You may recall a recent column where I talked about a proposal to allow artificial lights, night vision and thermal imaging gear to be used when hunting coyotes. On June 25th, the commission voted in favor of that proposal. At that time, KDWPT Furbearer Biologist Matt Peak said that “Most other Midwest states already allow this activity in some form, with apparently no more legal or safety issues than other types of hunting, and pressure from hunters and livestock producers for us to allow this has really grown in recent years.” The regulation will be implemented to begin in 2021, and will require a special $2.50 Night Vision Equipment Permit allowing hunters to use artificial light, scopes and equipment that amplify visible light, and thermal -imaging equipment when hunting coyotes at night. The following restrictions will apply:

Use of this gear will be permitted from January 1 to March 1 only.

Use of this equipment will be allowed for hunting coyotes only.

Vehicles will not be allowed when using this gear.

Use of this equipment will NOT be allowed on KDWPT owned or managed lands or waters, including WIHA (walk-in hunting areas.)

Now before you do cartwheels down your driveway and begin planning late night coyote hunts, you better do some research on this equipment, some of which can cost the price of a good used car.

So, despite COVID, a so called “Pandemic,” big cities throughout the country seemingly self-destructing and on-fire, and people becoming increasingly afraid of their own shadows, Kansas hunting seasons will begin as usual, and what better place to be safe from a “Pandemic” than the Kansas Outdoors…continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;It seems September 1st is the magic date when Kansas hunting seasons begin to flourish. Dove season is perhaps the best known and most popular, but Sept 1 also ushers in various archery, muzzle loader and special disabled hunting seasons for antelope, elk and deer; too many to list here, but view the whole lineup at the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website, <a href="http://www.ksoutdoors.com">www.ksoutdoors.com</a>.There are myriads of acres of sunflowers, both domestically grown and wild in which to hunt doves here in Kansas. A very popular and effective strategy employed by many hunters is to set up early-morning or late-evening near water sources that are in or around sunflower fields and patches, as birds will stop there to drink prior to and after feeding. When the countryside is dry like it has been around here recently, that works well, as those remaining water sources become choke points where doves congregate from miles around.&nbsp;---------You may recall a recent column where I talked about a proposal to allow artificial lights, night vision and thermal imaging gear to be used when hunting coyotes. On June 25th, the commission voted in favor of that proposal. At that time, KDWPT Furbearer Biologist Matt Peak said that “Most other Midwest states already allow this activity in some form, with apparently no more legal or safety issues than other types of hunting, and pressure from hunters and livestock producers for us to allow this has really grown in recent years.” The regulation will be implemented to begin in 2021, and will require a special $2.50 Night Vision Equipment Permit allowing hunters to use artificial light, scopes and equipment that amplify visible light, and thermal -imaging equipment when hunting coyotes at night. The following restrictions will apply:Use of this gear will be permitted from January 1 to March 1 only.Use of this equipment will be allowed for hunting coyotes only.Vehicles will not be allowed when using this gear.Use of this equipment will NOT be allowed on KDWPT owned or managed lands or waters, including WIHA (walk-in hunting areas.)Now before you do cartwheels down your driveway and begin planning late night coyote hunts, you better do some research on this equipment, some of which can cost the price of a good used car.So, despite COVID, a so called “Pandemic,” big cities throughout the country seemingly self-destructing and on-fire, and people becoming increasingly afraid of their own shadows, Kansas hunting seasons will begin as usual, and what better place to be safe from a “Pandemic” than the Kansas Outdoors…continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.&nbsp;

Exploring Outdoors Kan.: Fall hunting seasons, night-time coyote hunts

Clara Korbe smiles and chats as she sorts her large bin of cast off-Christmas ornaments.

Korbe of Hays works diligently beside the Arc Thrift's younger volunteers, preferring to stand despite aging legs.

She stops briefly to mull over a bright red wicker slay before reaching for a price sticker. She has her work station set up just so, her price stickers all in order. Her macular degeneration makes it difficult to see the dollars and cents these days.

"They know not to mess with Clarie's spot. I guess I didn't realize that I was that mean," she said, giving an ornery giggle.

Clarie, as she is affectionately know at the Arc Thrift, is celebrating her 50th year at the Arc as a volunteer, soon to start her 51st year. Her first day as a volunteer was the day after Labor Day 1970. This year, it falls on her birthday, Sept. 8. She will be 85.

Claire first started volunteering at the Arc as a means to clothe her large family — seven children. When she started, the Arc would allow volunteers to take home clothing for a small donation every month.

"Back then, I was very poor," she said.&nbsp;

Clarie also had ties to two of the founders of the ARC, Barney and Clem Hammerschmidt. Clarie's nephew, her sister Barney's son, Terry, has a developmental disability.

Terry also volunteered for years at the Arc, but was forced to stop after an ankle injury.

Clarie's family needed the clothes, but she soon found the Arc was a safe place to meet people and socialize. She said she had spent most of her younger years at home with her children and was very shy.

Coming to the Arc was almost like therapy for her, she said.

"I talk a lot now. I can go up to a stranger and tell them my life story," she said.

&nbsp;Most of her friends are Arc volunteers. She also served a stint on the ARC board. The day the Hays Post visited, three of her daughters were also helping sort donated items in the Arc's backroom.

The Arc has changed during Clarie's tenure, moving locations twice. The Arc Thrift was located where the Ellis County Administrative Center is now on Main Street and then on 11th Street before moving to its current location at 600 Main in 2015.

The first facilities were small with only a single light bulb hanging from the ceiling to sort clothes by.

Clarie said the way the society treats people who have disabilities has changed a lot as well.

Her aunt who was disabled stayed at home. She did not have an opportunity to go to school or socialize with other people. After her grandmother died, her aunt spent a short time in a group home where she was allowed to join in community activities.

She said she felt badly that her aunt had not had the opportunities like those offered by the Arc of the Central Plains today.

"Back then, they didn't do much for them," Clarie said. "I always wished she could have had a better life."

Clarie also has a granddaughter with a disability as well as a 1-year-old great-granddaughter with Down Syndrome. She smiled, "She's a card."

Clarie said she thinks the Arc Thrift Store helps people be more aware of people who have disabilities. The Arc also helps support activities for individuals who have developmental and intellectual disabilities in the community.

Until about nine years ago, Clarie only volunteered on Tuesdays. She had other jobs, and ran a bar and grill for a time. Tuesday was her day off, so that was her day at the Arc.

A few years ago, the Arc was short of help, so she bumped her hours to three days a week. However, her legs are not what the used to be. She needs time to rest in between her work days, so she is back down to two days a week, half days on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Although she has volunteered in all aspects of the shop, Clarie has become a Christmas specialist in recent years. She sorts most of the Christmas items that arrive.&nbsp;

Some of the choice items she sets aside for the Arc's Festival of Trees fundraising project. She has also accumulated a room full of Santas for herself.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599080698831.jpeg" alt="Claire Korbe, 84, of Hays has been a volunteer at the Arc of the Central Plains Thrift Store for 50 years.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Claire Korbe, 84, of Hays has been a volunteer at the Arc of the Central Plains Thrift Store for 50 years.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostClara Korbe smiles and chats as she sorts her large bin of cast off-Christmas ornaments.Korbe of Hays works diligently beside the Arc Thrift's younger volunteers, preferring to stand despite aging legs.She stops briefly to mull over a bright red wicker slay before reaching for a price sticker. She has her work station set up just so, her price stickers all in order. Her macular degeneration makes it difficult to see the dollars and cents these days."They know not to mess with Clarie's spot. I guess I didn't realize that I was that mean," she said, giving an ornery giggle.Clarie, as she is affectionately know at the Arc Thrift, is celebrating her 50th year at the Arc as a volunteer, soon to start her 51st year. Her first day as a volunteer was the day after Labor Day 1970. This year, it falls on her birthday, Sept. 8. She will be 85.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599080953970.jpeg" alt="Clarie Korbe prices Christmas items at the Arc Thrift Store in Hays. She has specialized in Christmas items during the last two years." />
 <figcaption>Clarie Korbe prices Christmas items at the Arc Thrift Store in Hays. She has specialized in Christmas items during the last two years.</figcaption>
 </figure>Claire first started volunteering at the Arc as a means to clothe her large family — seven children. When she started, the Arc would allow volunteers to take home clothing for a small donation every month."Back then, I was very poor," she said.&nbsp;Clarie also had ties to two of the founders of the ARC, Barney and Clem Hammerschmidt. Clarie's nephew, her sister Barney's son, Terry, has a developmental disability.Terry also volunteered for years at the Arc, but was forced to stop after an ankle injury.Clarie's family needed the clothes, but she soon found the Arc was a safe place to meet people and socialize. She said she had spent most of her younger years at home with her children and was very shy.Coming to the Arc was almost like therapy for her, she said."I talk a lot now. I can go up to a stranger and tell them my life story," she said.&nbsp;Most of her friends are Arc volunteers. She also served a stint on the ARC board. The day the Hays Post visited, three of her daughters were also helping sort donated items in the Arc's backroom.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599081301630.jpeg" alt="Clarie Korbe, right, volunteers along side her daughter, Nancy, left. Two of her other daughters also were volunteering at the Arc that same day." />
 <figcaption>Clarie Korbe, right, volunteers along side her daughter, Nancy, left. Two of her other daughters also were volunteering at the Arc that same day.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Arc has changed during Clarie's tenure, moving locations twice. The Arc Thrift was located where the Ellis County Administrative Center is now on Main Street and then on 11th Street before moving to its current location at 600 Main in 2015.The first facilities were small with only a single light bulb hanging from the ceiling to sort clothes by.Clarie said the way the society treats people who have disabilities has changed a lot as well.Her aunt who was disabled stayed at home. She did not have an opportunity to go to school or socialize with other people. After her grandmother died, her aunt spent a short time in a group home where she was allowed to join in community activities.She said she felt badly that her aunt had not had the opportunities like those offered by the Arc of the Central Plains today."Back then, they didn't do much for them," Clarie said. "I always wished she could have had a better life."Clarie also has a granddaughter with a disability as well as a 1-year-old great-granddaughter with Down Syndrome. She smiled, "She's a card."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599081340195.jpeg" alt="Clarie Korbe handles a small Christmas ornament at the Arc Thrift Store. She said her favorite aspect of volunteering has been meeting people and making friends." />
 <figcaption>Clarie Korbe handles a small Christmas ornament at the Arc Thrift Store. She said her favorite aspect of volunteering has been meeting people and making friends.</figcaption>
 </figure>Clarie said she thinks the Arc Thrift Store helps people be more aware of people who have disabilities. The Arc also helps support activities for individuals who have developmental and intellectual disabilities in the community.Until about nine years ago, Clarie only volunteered on Tuesdays. She had other jobs, and ran a bar and grill for a time. Tuesday was her day off, so that was her day at the Arc.A few years ago, the Arc was short of help, so she bumped her hours to three days a week. However, her legs are not what the used to be. She needs time to rest in between her work days, so she is back down to two days a week, half days on Tuesdays and Saturdays.Although she has volunteered in all aspects of the shop, Clarie has become a Christmas specialist in recent years. She sorts most of the Christmas items that arrive.&nbsp;Some of the choice items she sets aside for the Arc's Festival of Trees fundraising project. She has also accumulated a room full of Santas for herself."I don't get tired of it," she said. "I love Christmas."Another of her prized Thrift finds was a painting of a girl sitting in a wicker chair at the beach. She also found a gold frame for the painting at the Arc."My granddaughter loved that. She thought that was me," Clarie said. "I told her when I pass on, that will be yours."Her vest is decorated with pins that she has collected over the years — an enamel frog, a rhinestone angel, a cross made of tiny nails, a lady bug along with a 30-year service pin from the Arc.She said she has traveled the world and back in time through books donated to the Arc. Reading is more difficult now with her macular degeneration. However, she said she used to like to romance novels."Some people thought some romance books were not nice," she said. "You just skip over that stuff. Once you've read it once, it's old stuff."Since she can't read well anymore, she's shifted to politics, and is a loyal viewer of Fox News. She has to hash it all out with her sons from time to time. Sometimes the family discussions get a little bit loud.The Arc also is the source for her with her canning supplies. She still tends a raised garden at her Hays home. She canned 100 pints of salsa last summer — none of which she can eat because she is allergic to the coriander in the sauce. She gave it all away.Clarie said she continues to be surprised by the community's generosity."It's amazing the new stuff that people give away," she said, "and how much everybody has, especially the young people with the toys. It's horrific. They've always been generous. The community has been really good that way."Kathy McAdoo, Arc executive director, said Claire service has been nothing short of amazing.Clarie chimed in, "It was nothing. It was one day a week. It got me out of the house."McAdoo continued, "It's amazing dedication. It's so unusual. I've never met anyone like Clarie. I have never met anyone that dedicated, and she is just so fun. I love it when she's here. I love talking to her."Clarie said she is looking forward to starting her 51st year at the ARC on Sept. 8. She said she has no plans of slowing down or quitting any time soon."Why give up now?" she said. "If something happens that I can't, then I will be miserable. I will work as long as I can. I can still do a lot."

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