NICODEMUS — National Park Service Regional Director Bert Frost recently announced the selection of&nbsp;Frank J. Torres as superintendent of Nicodemus National Historic Site in Graham County.&nbsp;Torres will begin his assignment in September. “Frank&nbsp;has a passion for preserving history and creating meaningful connections,” Frost said. “He will build on the excitement over the restoration of the A.M.E. Church and continue to strengthen relationships with the local communities and park stakeholders.” “I am honored to be selected to serve as the superintendent of Nicodemus National Historic Site,” Torres said. “The park’s history and family connections are meaningful to our nation and are an example of people overcoming, persisting and finding opportunity.”

Torres has worked for NPS since 1989, most recently as chief of interpretation and visitor services at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona. He previously served as chief of interpretation at San Juan National Historic Site, supervisory park ranger at Oklahoma City and Coronado national memorials, chief of interpretation at Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, and park ranger at Petroglyph and Fort Union national monuments. Torres grew up in Las Vegas, New Mexico. He holds a degree in tourism and leisure services/business administration from New Mexico Highlands University. He looks forward to learning about and exploring the Great Plains and the rich history of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594829539868.jpeg" alt="Frank Torres&nbsp; has been named the new superintendent of Nicodemus National Historical Site.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Frank Torres&nbsp; has been named the new superintendent of Nicodemus National Historical Site.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NPSNICODEMUS — National Park Service Regional Director Bert Frost recently announced the selection of&nbsp;Frank J. Torres as superintendent of Nicodemus National Historic Site in Graham County.&nbsp;Torres will begin his assignment in September. “Frank&nbsp;has a passion for preserving history and creating meaningful connections,” Frost said. “He will build on the excitement over the restoration of the A.M.E. Church and continue to strengthen relationships with the local communities and park stakeholders.” “I am honored to be selected to serve as the superintendent of Nicodemus National Historic Site,” Torres said. “The park’s history and family connections are meaningful to our nation and are an example of people overcoming, persisting and finding opportunity.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594829881490.jpeg" alt="The Nicodemus Township Hall (Visitor Center) is located south of the roadside park by Highway 24." />
 <figcaption>The Nicodemus Township Hall (Visitor Center) is located south of the roadside park by Highway 24.</figcaption>
 </figure>Torres has worked for NPS since 1989, most recently as chief of interpretation and visitor services at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona. He previously served as chief of interpretation at San Juan National Historic Site, supervisory park ranger at Oklahoma City and Coronado national memorials, chief of interpretation at Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, and park ranger at Petroglyph and Fort Union national monuments. Torres grew up in Las Vegas, New Mexico. He holds a degree in tourism and leisure services/business administration from New Mexico Highlands University. He looks forward to learning about and exploring the Great Plains and the rich history of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New superintendent named at Nicodemus National Historical Site

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced today appointments to Kansas state boards and commissions.

Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board The mission of the board is to protect the public’s health, safety and welfare from unlawful or unprofessional practitioners who fall under the board’s jurisdiction. The board establishes educational and experience-based requirements, as well as rules and regulations for applicants seeking credentialing.

Board of Adult Care Home Administrators The Board of Adult Care Home Administrators’ mission is to protect the public through the regulation of adult care home administrators. Through its program, the board examines persons seeking to be licensed as adult care home administrators, establishes standards for the practice of adult care home administrations and requires adherence to those standards.

Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission The purpose of the Commission is to measure, promote, support, and expand the creative arts industries in Kansas.

Kansas Board of Nursing The board is charged with protecting the health, safety and welfare of residents of Kansas through the licensure and regulation process of nursing professions in the state. To that end, the board prescribes curricula and standards for professional and practical nursing programs and mental-health technician programs; and examines, licenses and renews the licenses of qualified applicants, among other duties.&nbsp;

Kansas Real Estate Commission The purpose of the Commission is to license and regulate real estate brokers.

Kansas Board of Veterinary Examiners The mission of the Board is to promote health, safety, and welfare by examining and licensing applicants for veterinary medicine. They also inspect and register licensed veterinarians.

Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission The mission of this Commission is to conserve and enhance Kansas’ wildlife; provide the public with opportunities for use and appreciation of Kansas’ natural resources.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594401153901.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced today appointments to Kansas state boards and commissions.Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board The mission of the board is to protect the public’s health, safety and welfare from unlawful or unprofessional practitioners who fall under the board’s jurisdiction. The board establishes educational and experience-based requirements, as well as rules and regulations for applicants seeking credentialing.<ul>
 <li>Jacqueline Lightcap, Topeka</li><li>Laura Shaughnessy, Roeland Park</li>
 </ul>Board of Adult Care Home Administrators The Board of Adult Care Home Administrators’ mission is to protect the public through the regulation of adult care home administrators. Through its program, the board examines persons seeking to be licensed as adult care home administrators, establishes standards for the practice of adult care home administrations and requires adherence to those standards.<ul>
 <li>Alexandra English, Leawood</li>
 </ul>Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission The purpose of the Commission is to measure, promote, support, and expand the creative arts industries in Kansas.<ul>
 <li>Karem Gallo, Liberal</li>
 </ul>Kansas Board of Nursing The board is charged with protecting the health, safety and welfare of residents of Kansas through the licensure and regulation process of nursing professions in the state. To that end, the board prescribes curricula and standards for professional and practical nursing programs and mental-health technician programs; and examines, licenses and renews the licenses of qualified applicants, among other duties.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Adri Gouldsmith, Topeka</li>
 </ul>Kansas Real Estate Commission The purpose of the Commission is to license and regulate real estate brokers.<ul>
 <li>Errol Wuertz, Hays (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>Kansas Board of Veterinary Examiners The mission of the Board is to promote health, safety, and welfare by examining and licensing applicants for veterinary medicine. They also inspect and register licensed veterinarians.<ul>
 <li>Sheila Dodson, DVM, Merriam (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission The mission of this Commission is to conserve and enhance Kansas’ wildlife; provide the public with opportunities for use and appreciation of Kansas’ natural resources.<ul>
 <li>Troy Sporer, Oakley (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>

NW Kansans appointed to state commissions

Three-day weather outlook

Eastern black nightshade, is an annual or occasionally perennial plant in the Solanaceae family. It is typically 15–60 cm tall and many branched. The leaves of eastern black nightshade are triangular to elliptic. The stems are circular, and sometimes slightly hairy.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GLZC4DxHkQQ"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eastern black nightshade, is an annual or occasionally perennial plant in the Solanaceae family. It is typically 15–60 cm tall and many branched. The leaves of eastern black nightshade are triangular to elliptic. The stems are circular, and sometimes slightly hairy.

🎥 Green & Growing: Eastern black nightshade

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 7.5 percent in June. This was a decrease from 10.0 percent in May and an increase from 3.1 percent in June 2019.

“As statewide guidance for the 'Ad Astra Plan to Reopen Kansas' recommended moving to Phase Three in June, the unemployment rate in Kansas fell to 7.5 percent as more Kansans returned to work,” said Acting Secretary Ryan Wright. “While showing improvement, unemployment remains at a higher level than before the pandemic. There are currently four active unemployment programs for the many Kansans that are still unemployed." 

After rising to more than 7 percent in April in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ellis County unemployment rates continue to fall in June. The jobless rate went from 5.8 percent in May to 4.1 percent in June.

June numbers showed a return to more familiar numbers for most of northwest Kansas, with several counties posting unemployment rates below 3 percent. Graham County's 6 percent was the highest in the region, with Russell County rates measured at 5.5 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 30,200 from May. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 30,200 from the previous month, while government stayed unchanged.

“Kansas employers added over 30,000 jobs in June,” said Labor Economist, Emilie Doerksen. “This combined with significant job growth in May shows that Kansas has recovered 37.4 percent of the jobs lost in March and April due to measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This is compared to the 33.8 percent of nonfarm jobs recovered so far for the U.S."

Since June 2019, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 78,400. This change is due to a decrease of 65,500 private sector jobs and 12,900 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595013050185.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 7.5 percent in June. This was a decrease from 10.0 percent in May and an increase from 3.1 percent in June 2019.“As statewide guidance for the 'Ad Astra Plan to Reopen Kansas' recommended moving to Phase Three in June, the unemployment rate in Kansas fell to 7.5 percent as more Kansans returned to work,” said Acting Secretary Ryan Wright. “While showing improvement, unemployment remains at a higher level than before the pandemic. There are currently four active unemployment programs for the many Kansans that are still unemployed." After rising to more than 7 percent in April in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ellis County unemployment rates continue to fall in June. The jobless rate went from 5.8 percent in May to 4.1 percent in June.June numbers showed a return to more familiar numbers for most of northwest Kansas, with several counties posting unemployment rates below 3 percent. Graham County's 6 percent was the highest in the region, with Russell County rates measured at 5.5 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 30,200 from May. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 30,200 from the previous month, while government stayed unchanged.“Kansas employers added over 30,000 jobs in June,” said Labor Economist, Emilie Doerksen. “This combined with significant job growth in May shows that Kansas has recovered 37.4 percent of the jobs lost in March and April due to measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This is compared to the 33.8 percent of nonfarm jobs recovered so far for the U.S."Since June 2019, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 78,400. This change is due to a decrease of 65,500 private sector jobs and 12,900 government jobs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595013094960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis Co. jobless rate drops 3 percent since April's spike

THOMAS COUNTY— One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Thomas County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2001 Ford Escort driven by Stephen F. Sheridan, 78, Oakley, was&nbsp;eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Oakley exit.The car traveled off the road and came to rest in the south ditch.

EMS transported Sheridan to the hospital in Oakley.

THOMAS COUNTY— One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Thomas County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2001 Ford Escort driven by Stephen F. Sheridan, 78, Oakley, was&nbsp;eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Oakley exit.The car traveled off the road and came to rest in the south ditch.EMS transported Sheridan to the hospital in Oakley.

Man from Oakley hospitalized after car travels into I-70 ditch 

Ellis County Health Department

Active cases: 36 Recovered cases: 41 Total cases: 77

ECHD has been notified of eleven new positive cases since Wednesday, July 15. 

ECHD is following KDHE guidelines to identify any close contacts of the new positive cases. Contacts will be notified and directed to self-quarantine for 14 days. 

ECHD is saddened to announce that a member of our community has passed away. The male, in his 90s, tested positive for COVID-19 on July 5, 2020. He had significant pre-existing medical conditions leading to his passing. COVID-19 is believed to be a contributing factor in his death.

ECHD extends its deepest condolences to his family in this difficult time.

Ellis County residents, especially the most vulnerable (those over 55 years old with pre-existing medical concerns), need to be exceptionally vigilant at this time. Fifty percent of our current active cases are in the population over 55 years old. This trend is alarming as this population accounts for 92.6% of the 299 statewide deaths and 62% of the 1300 hospitalizations. If you are in this population, have a loved one or care for someone in this population, please take extra precautions to protect and educate yourselves and them. As we interact and care for those in the vulnerable population attempt to limit close contact as much as possible and avoid indoor settings during contact. If you cannot appropriately social distance, both parties should wear a mask.

Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.

ECHD encourages all Ellis County Residents to avoid gatherings and wear a mask if you cannot distance yourself. If you become symptomatic please contact your local physician. Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by the CDC, KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you. 

Ellis County Health DepartmentActive cases: 36 Recovered cases: 41 Total cases: 77ECHD has been notified of eleven new positive cases since Wednesday, July 15. ECHD is following KDHE guidelines to identify any close contacts of the new positive cases. Contacts will be notified and directed to self-quarantine for 14 days. The positive cases are in isolation.ECHD is saddened to announce that a member of our community has passed away. The male, in his 90s, tested positive for COVID-19 on July 5, 2020. He had significant pre-existing medical conditions leading to his passing. COVID-19 is believed to be a contributing factor in his death.ECHD extends its deepest condolences to his family in this difficult time.Ellis County residents, especially the most vulnerable (those over 55 years old with pre-existing medical concerns), need to be exceptionally vigilant at this time. Fifty percent of our current active cases are in the population over 55 years old. This trend is alarming as this population accounts for 92.6% of the 299 statewide deaths and 62% of the 1300 hospitalizations. If you are in this population, have a loved one or care for someone in this population, please take extra precautions to protect and educate yourselves and them. As we interact and care for those in the vulnerable population attempt to limit close contact as much as possible and avoid indoor settings during contact. If you cannot appropriately social distance, both parties should wear a mask.Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.ECHD encourages all Ellis County Residents to avoid gatherings and wear a mask if you cannot distance yourself. If you become symptomatic please contact your local physician. Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by the CDC, KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you.

Ellis Co. reports eleven new positive cases of COVID-19; one death

A mandatory face mask ordinance based on one&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/322564fb-ce3f-499b-813a-d2223858ab66">approved by the Sedgwick County Commission</a> July 10 has been drafted for the city of Hays by City Attorney John Bird and City Manager Toby Dougherty.

Although it was not on the agenda, city commissioners discussed the situation at the end of their Thursday night work session.

"I don't know if I have all the votes to mandate it but if we have another week like we had this week, I think it's time," said Shaun Musil, mayor. "I hope next week is better.

 "We've just got to take care of our community."

The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday announced <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/19cec1a3-3f8e-441b-8af5-ca15aaedfd35">nine new positive cases of COVID-19 have been identified since Monday</a>.

There are now 27 active cases in Ellis County, with 66 total cases since reporting began. Health Services Director Jason Kennedy&nbsp;noted the "exponential" increase in coronavirus cases since the Fourth of July holiday stemming from the gathering of large groups.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/21423f8d-d261-4eb5-b117-ab3f25442f3f">Ellis County commissioners voted July 2 not to enforce</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fd80a903-c6c3-4b70-ae64-3ef420902ede">statewide mandatory face mask&nbsp;</a>executive order by Gov. Laura Kelly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/770d7b0c-0f54-49ee-a0d9-71320b04121a">Counties are allowed to exempt themselves</a>&nbsp;from the mandate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city is requiring its&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/af54a961-d76c-4d44-b2cc-55a9b1862926">employees and visitors to its buildings</a>&nbsp;to wear face masks.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Musil, owner of&nbsp;Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in downtown Hays, said his staff is now wearing masks.&nbsp;

"I had a customer come in today who said they would not go to a different Hays business because (those employees) were not wearing a mask."

Musil noted several <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/84d98406-97e0-49a2-b867-6df49276da6f">national businesses</a>, including Walmart and Kroger (Dillons), will require customers and employees to wear masks beginning next week.

Musil lamented the politicization of face masks and competing theories of whether they help slow transmission of coronavirus.&nbsp;

"I don't know if they solve anything but it sure makes people feel better."

He said he "doesn't like" wearing face masks, and "personally, I don't think they stop anything, but it's the right thing to do."&nbsp;

Commissioner Mason Ruder said during a doctor's appointment Thursday, his physician said they&nbsp; were having COVID emergencies.

"I asked him if he thought it was time to mandate face masks," Ruder related. "He said it was time a few weeks ago."

Ruder said he "doesn't like the strong arm of mandates."

"I'd rather believe in people, that they can step up and do the right thing.&nbsp;

"Let's mitigate this before it becomes a problem and we gotta shut down again. I don't know how many businesses could handle another shutdown.

"I agree if it continues to go like it has, a mandate might be something to look at.

"This isn't a political attack. We're not trying to take your rights away," Ruder continued. 

"If you don't wear a mask - if it's mandated, we won't lock you up. It's more of a thing where we need to work together and tackle this thing before it becomes a bigger issue than it is."

Vice-Mayor Sandy Jacobs agreed it's a very emotional issue.

"I initially said I was in favor of mandates and I am not today," she said.

"If this continues to grow, I just don't think we have any choice. I'd be ready to make the decision next week."

Commissioner Michael Berges <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/69f1b5b1-a69e-4dab-80b1-ee8c00201441">reiterated his support</a>&nbsp;for wearing masks, saying he wasn't shocked at the&nbsp;governor's recommendation to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c2106e8-8c7e-4c99-a681-39cb11dc76ee">delay starting schools until after Labor Day</a>.&nbsp;

"The defiance is absurd at this point," Berges declared.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"More and more businesses, including my own business since July 1, are requiring that you wear a mask. If we wear them religiously, maybe we can get through this more quickly."&nbsp;

Commissioner Ron Mellick said he thinks "we'll all get the coronavirus at one time or another, mask or no mask."

"But the big thing is that we don't get our healthcare system overwhelmed."

Mellick asked for the mandatory mask ordinance to be put on next week's agenda.

"We don't have to pass it but we can if the county doesn't step up to the plate," he said.

Below is the draft ordinance that will be on the July 23 city commission agenda.

AN ORDINANCE CREATING SECTIONS 20-1 THROUGH 20-5 OF THE CODE
OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS, PERTAINING TO REQUIRING THE WEARING OF MASKS OR
OTHER FACE COVERINGS

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE
GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS:

SECTION 1: Section 20-1 of
the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as follows:

WHEREAS,
securing the health, safety, and economic well-being of
residents of the City of Hays is the priority of the City Commission; and

WHEREAS,
the United States Departments of Health and Human Services
declared a public health emergency for COVID-19 beginning January 27, 2020,
with now more than 3,465,031 
cases of the illness and more than 136,940 deaths as a result of the
illness across the United 
States; and

WHEREAS,
the World Health Organization declared a pandemic on March
11, 2020; and

WHEREAS,
a State of Disaster Emergency was proclaimed for the State
of Kansas on March 12, 2020; and

WHEREAS,
on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States
declared the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic of sufficient severity and magnitude to
warrant an emergency declaration for all states, tribes, territories, and the
District of Columbia pursuant to Section 50 1 (b) of the Robert T. Stafford
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. § 5121-5207 (the
"Stafford Act"); and

WHEREAS,
on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States
pursuant to Sections 201 and 301 of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. §
1601, et seq. and consistent with Section 1135 of the Social Security Act, as
amended (42 U.S.C. § 1320b-5), declared a national emergency that the COVID-19
outbreak in the United States constitutes a national emergency beginning March
1, 2020; and

WHEREAS,
as of this date, in Kansas there have
been 21,111 reported positive cases of 
COVID-19 spread among 102 counties, including 304 deaths; and

WHEREAS,
after a steady trend of decreasing metrics, recent weeks have seen the numbers
of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths spike in Kansas and across the
nation; and

WHEREAS,
in Ellis County, there is a recent increase in cases
reported; and

WHEREAS, this increased COVID-19 spread is a danger to the health and safety
of every Hays resident and also presents a serious threat to reopening and
reviving the Hays economy; and

WHEREAS,
wearing a mask in public is the easiest and most effective way to protect each
other and help keep our businesses open and our economy running; and

WHEREAS,
the City of Hays must remain flexible to account for the
evolving nature and scope of the unprecedented public health emergency posed by
COVID-19, while also simultaneously safely, strategically, and incrementally
reopening business and facilitating economic recovery and revitalization; and

WHEREAS,
for the aforementioned and other reasons, and in recognition
and furtherance of my responsibility to provide for and ensure the health,
safety, security, and welfare of the people of the City of Hays, requiring that
masks or other face coverings be worn in public spaces is necessary to promote
and secure the safety and protection of the civilian population.

SECTION 2. Section 20-2 of
the Code of the City of Hays, Kansas, is hereby created to read as follows:

As
used in this Chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
Definitions:

a.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
"Mask or other face
covering" means a covering of the nose and mouth that is secured to the
head with ties, straps, or loops over the ears or secured to the head by other
means or devices or is simply wrapped around the lower face. A mask or other
face covering can be made of a variety of synthetic and natural fabrics,
including cotton, silk, or linen. Ideally, a mask or other face covering has
two or more layers. A mask or other face covering may be factory-made, sewn by
hand, or can be improvised from household items such as scarfs, bandanas,
t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.

b.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
“Public space” means any
indoor or outdoor space or area that is open to the public; this does not
include private residential property or private offices or workspaces that are
not open to customers or public visitors.

SECTION
3. Section 20-3 of the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as
follows:

1.
All persons in the City of Hays shall cover their mouths and noses with a mask
or other face covering when they are in the following situations:

a.
Inside any indoor public space where distancing of 6 feet is not possible;

b. Obtaining
services from the healthcare sector in settings, including but not limited to,
a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician or dental office,
veterinary clinic, or blood bank, unless directed otherwise by an employee or
healthcare provider.

c.&nbsp; Riding
on public transportation or while in a taxi, private car service, or
ride-sharing vehicle;

d. While
outdoors in public spaces and unable to maintain a 6-foot distance between
individuals (not including individuals who reside together) with only
infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.

2)
Businesses and organizations. All
businesses, organizations and non-profit associations in the City of Hays must
require all employees, customers,
visitors, members, or members of the public to wear a mask or other face
covering when:

a.&nbsp; Employees
are working in any space visited by customers or members of the public;

b. Employees
are working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or
distribution to others;

c.&nbsp; Customers,
members, visitors, or members of the public are in a facility managed by the
business or organization; or

d. Employees
are in any room or enclosed area where other people (except for individuals who
reside together) are present and are unable to maintain a 6-foot distance
except for infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.

3. Exemptions.
The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks or other face coverings
in the situations described in Paragraphs 1 and 2:

a.&nbsp; Children
age ____ years or younger and further provided that children two and younger should
not wear a face covering because of risk of suffocation;

b. Persons
with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents
wearing a face covering—this includes persons with a medical condition for whom
wearing a face covering could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious,
incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without
assistance;

c.&nbsp; Persons
who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing
impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication;

d. Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a
risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or
federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines;

e.&nbsp; Persons
who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary
removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service;

f.&nbsp; Persons
who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or
beverage service, while they are eating or drinking, provided they maintain a
6-foot distance between individuals (not including individuals who reside
together or are seated together) with only infrequent or incidental moments of
closer proximity;

g. Athletes
who are engaged in an organized sports activity that allows athletes to
maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental
moments of closer proximity;

h. Persons
who are engaged in an activity that a professional or recreational association,
regulatory entity, medical association, or other public-health-oriented entity
has determined cannot be safely conducted while wearing a mask or other face
covering;

i.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Persons engaged in a
court-related proceeding held or managed by the Kansas Judiciary; and

j.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Persons engaged in any lawful
activity during which wearing a mask or other face covering is prohibited by
law.

SECTION
4. Section 20-4 of the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as
follows:

1. Any
person, business or organization violating the provisions of Section 20-4 of
the Code of the City of Hays shall be guilty of an infraction.

2. A
person, firm, or corporation convicted of a violation of this section shall be
punished by a fine of twenty five ($25.00) dollars upon a first conviction, by
a fine of fifty ($50.00) dollars upon a second conviction, and by fine of one
hundred dollars ($100.00) dollars upon a third or subsequent conviction, plus
court costs.

SECTION
5. Section 20-5 of the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as
follows:

The
provisions hereof shall be in effect until August ___, 2020.

SECTION 6. &nbsp;<a>This ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and
after its publication </a>on the City of Hays website.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; PASSED
by the Commission the _______ day of July, 2020.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; APPROVED
AND SIGNED by the Mayor this _____ day of July, 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594997036967.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners have asked for a mandatory face mask ordinance to be placed on the July 23 agenda." />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners have asked for a mandatory face mask ordinance to be placed on the July 23 agenda.</figcaption>
 </figure>Becky Kiser Hays PostA mandatory face mask ordinance based on one&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/322564fb-ce3f-499b-813a-d2223858ab66">approved by the Sedgwick County Commission</a> July 10 has been drafted for the city of Hays by City Attorney John Bird and City Manager Toby Dougherty. Although it was not on the agenda, city commissioners discussed the situation at the end of their Thursday night work session."I don't know if I have all the votes to mandate it but if we have another week like we had this week, I think it's time," said Shaun Musil, mayor. "I hope next week is better. "We've just got to take care of our community."The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday announced <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/19cec1a3-3f8e-441b-8af5-ca15aaedfd35">nine new positive cases of COVID-19 have been identified since Monday</a>.There are now 27 active cases in Ellis County, with 66 total cases since reporting began. Health Services Director Jason Kennedy&nbsp;noted the "exponential" increase in coronavirus cases since the Fourth of July holiday stemming from the gathering of large groups.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/21423f8d-d261-4eb5-b117-ab3f25442f3f">Ellis County commissioners voted July 2 not to enforce</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fd80a903-c6c3-4b70-ae64-3ef420902ede">statewide mandatory face mask&nbsp;</a>executive order by Gov. Laura Kelly.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/770d7b0c-0f54-49ee-a0d9-71320b04121a">Counties are allowed to exempt themselves</a>&nbsp;from the mandate.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city is requiring its&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/af54a961-d76c-4d44-b2cc-55a9b1862926">employees and visitors to its buildings</a>&nbsp;to wear face masks.&nbsp; &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/pbnLbv-TXz8"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Musil, owner of&nbsp;Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in downtown Hays, said his staff is now wearing masks.&nbsp;"I had a customer come in today who said they would not go to a different Hays business because (those employees) were not wearing a mask."Musil noted several <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/84d98406-97e0-49a2-b867-6df49276da6f">national businesses</a>, including Walmart and Kroger (Dillons), will require customers and employees to wear masks beginning next week.Musil lamented the politicization of face masks and competing theories of whether they help slow transmission of coronavirus.&nbsp;"I don't know if they solve anything but it sure makes people feel better."He said he "doesn't like" wearing face masks, and "personally, I don't think they stop anything, but it's the right thing to do."&nbsp;Commissioner Mason Ruder said during a doctor's appointment Thursday, his physician said they&nbsp; were having COVID emergencies."I asked him if he thought it was time to mandate face masks," Ruder related. "He said it was time a few weeks ago."Ruder said he "doesn't like the strong arm of mandates.""I'd rather believe in people, that they can step up and do the right thing.&nbsp;"Let's mitigate this before it becomes a problem and we gotta shut down again. I don't know how many businesses could handle another shutdown."I agree if it continues to go like it has, a mandate might be something to look at."This isn't a political attack. We're not trying to take your rights away," Ruder continued. "If you don't wear a mask - if it's mandated, we won't lock you up. It's more of a thing where we need to work together and tackle this thing before it becomes a bigger issue than it is."Vice-Mayor Sandy Jacobs agreed it's a very emotional issue."I initially said I was in favor of mandates and I am not today," she said."If this continues to grow, I just don't think we have any choice. I'd be ready to make the decision next week."Commissioner Michael Berges <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/69f1b5b1-a69e-4dab-80b1-ee8c00201441">reiterated his support</a>&nbsp;for wearing masks, saying he wasn't shocked at the&nbsp;governor's recommendation to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c2106e8-8c7e-4c99-a681-39cb11dc76ee">delay starting schools until after Labor Day</a>.&nbsp;"The defiance is absurd at this point," Berges declared.&nbsp;&nbsp;"More and more businesses, including my own business since July 1, are requiring that you wear a mask. If we wear them religiously, maybe we can get through this more quickly."&nbsp;Commissioner Ron Mellick said he thinks "we'll all get the coronavirus at one time or another, mask or no mask.""But the big thing is that we don't get our healthcare system overwhelmed."Mellick asked for the mandatory mask ordinance to be put on next week's agenda."We don't have to pass it but we can if the county doesn't step up to the plate," he said.Below is the draft ordinance that will be on the July 23 city commission agenda.ORDINANCE
NO. 20-___AN ORDINANCE CREATING SECTIONS 20-1 THROUGH 20-5 OF THE CODE
OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS, PERTAINING TO REQUIRING THE WEARING OF MASKS OR
OTHER FACE COVERINGSBE IT ORDAINED BY THE
GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS:SECTION 1: Section 20-1 of
the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as follows:WHEREAS,
securing the health, safety, and economic well-being of
residents of the City of Hays is the priority of the City Commission; andWHEREAS,
the United States Departments of Health and Human Services
declared a public health emergency for COVID-19 beginning January 27, 2020,
with now more than 3,465,031 
cases of the illness and more than 136,940 deaths as a result of the
illness across the United 
States; andWHEREAS,
the World Health Organization declared a pandemic on March
11, 2020; andWHEREAS,
a State of Disaster Emergency was proclaimed for the State
of Kansas on March 12, 2020; andWHEREAS,
on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States
declared the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic of sufficient severity and magnitude to
warrant an emergency declaration for all states, tribes, territories, and the
District of Columbia pursuant to Section 50 1 (b) of the Robert T. Stafford
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. § 5121-5207 (the
"Stafford Act"); andWHEREAS,
on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States
pursuant to Sections 201 and 301 of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. §
1601, et seq. and consistent with Section 1135 of the Social Security Act, as
amended (42 U.S.C. § 1320b-5), declared a national emergency that the COVID-19
outbreak in the United States constitutes a national emergency beginning March
1, 2020; andWHEREAS,
as of this date, in Kansas there have
been 21,111 reported positive cases of 
COVID-19 spread among 102 counties, including 304 deaths; andWHEREAS,
after a steady trend of decreasing metrics, recent weeks have seen the numbers
of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths spike in Kansas and across the
nation; andWHEREAS,
in Ellis County, there is a recent increase in cases
reported; andWHEREAS, this increased COVID-19 spread is a danger to the health and safety
of every Hays resident and also presents a serious threat to reopening and
reviving the Hays economy; andWHEREAS,
wearing a mask in public is the easiest and most effective way to protect each
other and help keep our businesses open and our economy running; andWHEREAS,
the City of Hays must remain flexible to account for the
evolving nature and scope of the unprecedented public health emergency posed by
COVID-19, while also simultaneously safely, strategically, and incrementally
reopening business and facilitating economic recovery and revitalization; andWHEREAS,
for the aforementioned and other reasons, and in recognition
and furtherance of my responsibility to provide for and ensure the health,
safety, security, and welfare of the people of the City of Hays, requiring that
masks or other face coverings be worn in public spaces is necessary to promote
and secure the safety and protection of the civilian population.SECTION 2. Section 20-2 of
the Code of the City of Hays, Kansas, is hereby created to read as follows:As
used in this Chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
Definitions:a.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
"Mask or other face
covering" means a covering of the nose and mouth that is secured to the
head with ties, straps, or loops over the ears or secured to the head by other
means or devices or is simply wrapped around the lower face. A mask or other
face covering can be made of a variety of synthetic and natural fabrics,
including cotton, silk, or linen. Ideally, a mask or other face covering has
two or more layers. A mask or other face covering may be factory-made, sewn by
hand, or can be improvised from household items such as scarfs, bandanas,
t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.b.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
“Public space” means any
indoor or outdoor space or area that is open to the public; this does not
include private residential property or private offices or workspaces that are
not open to customers or public visitors.SECTION
3. Section 20-3 of the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as
follows:1.
All persons in the City of Hays shall cover their mouths and noses with a mask
or other face covering when they are in the following situations:a.
Inside any indoor public space where distancing of 6 feet is not possible;b. Obtaining
services from the healthcare sector in settings, including but not limited to,
a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician or dental office,
veterinary clinic, or blood bank, unless directed otherwise by an employee or
healthcare provider.c.&nbsp; Riding
on public transportation or while in a taxi, private car service, or
ride-sharing vehicle;d. While
outdoors in public spaces and unable to maintain a 6-foot distance between
individuals (not including individuals who reside together) with only
infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.2)
Businesses and organizations. All
businesses, organizations and non-profit associations in the City of Hays must
require all employees, customers,
visitors, members, or members of the public to wear a mask or other face
covering when:a.&nbsp; Employees
are working in any space visited by customers or members of the public;b. Employees
are working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or
distribution to others;c.&nbsp; Customers,
members, visitors, or members of the public are in a facility managed by the
business or organization; ord. Employees
are in any room or enclosed area where other people (except for individuals who
reside together) are present and are unable to maintain a 6-foot distance
except for infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.3. Exemptions.
The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks or other face coverings
in the situations described in Paragraphs 1 and 2:a.&nbsp; Children
age ____ years or younger and further provided that children two and younger should
not wear a face covering because of risk of suffocation;b. Persons
with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents
wearing a face covering—this includes persons with a medical condition for whom
wearing a face covering could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious,
incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without
assistance;c.&nbsp; Persons
who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing
impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication;d. Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a
risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or
federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines;e.&nbsp; Persons
who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary
removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service;f.&nbsp; Persons
who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or
beverage service, while they are eating or drinking, provided they maintain a
6-foot distance between individuals (not including individuals who reside
together or are seated together) with only infrequent or incidental moments of
closer proximity;g. Athletes
who are engaged in an organized sports activity that allows athletes to
maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental
moments of closer proximity;h. Persons
who are engaged in an activity that a professional or recreational association,
regulatory entity, medical association, or other public-health-oriented entity
has determined cannot be safely conducted while wearing a mask or other face
covering;i.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Persons engaged in a
court-related proceeding held or managed by the Kansas Judiciary; andj.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Persons engaged in any lawful
activity during which wearing a mask or other face covering is prohibited by
law.SECTION
4. Section 20-4 of the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as
follows:1. Any
person, business or organization violating the provisions of Section 20-4 of
the Code of the City of Hays shall be guilty of an infraction.2. A
person, firm, or corporation convicted of a violation of this section shall be
punished by a fine of twenty five ($25.00) dollars upon a first conviction, by
a fine of fifty ($50.00) dollars upon a second conviction, and by fine of one
hundred dollars ($100.00) dollars upon a third or subsequent conviction, plus
court costs.SECTION
5. Section 20-5 of the Code of the City of Hays is hereby created to read as
follows:The
provisions hereof shall be in effect until August ___, 2020.SECTION 6. &nbsp;<a>This ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and
after its publication </a>on the City of Hays website. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; PASSED
by the Commission the _______ day of July, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; APPROVED
AND SIGNED by the Mayor this _____ day of July, 2020.SHAUN MUSILMayorATTEST:______________________________BRENDA KITCHENCity Clerk&nbsp;

🎥 Mandatory face mask ordinance to be considered by city commissioners

“Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past. Let us accept our own responsibility for the future.” – John F. Kennedy

I use this quote because it is perfect for the County Clerk position for which I have recently announced my write in campaign. I have spent a good amount of time studying the Clerk position and responsibilities. In the course of that research I have also come across several news articles documenting a fair amount of animosity between county offices. As an active, engaged Ellis County citizen, I knew such animosity existed, but was unaware of how detrimental it was to the county and the people these offices are meant to represent.&nbsp;

County Clerk duties in the state of Kansas, based on employment descriptions, are heavily clerical and accounting, not open to interpretation. Deadlines are mandated, also not open to interpretation. But, for whatever reason, in Ellis County there seems to be dissent among county offices about who is right, who is wrong, who is at fault, etc.

In any working relationship this is far from efficient, time consuming and toxic. Instead of working together to benefit Ellis County and its residents, energies are spend on accusations and arguments. Case in point, a recent viral video, shared far and wide, of county officers at a Commission meeting. While the Clerk’s office was not directly involved in that exchange, the clerk’s office was represented. There was ample opportunity for any one of the many elected officials in attendance to be the voice of reason, but not one spoke up. In a healthy working relationship/environment, this would have never been acceptable. We deserve better.

As the Chief Election Official for the county, however; the Clerk does have an amazing opportunity to work with the community and step outside the box. On the basest level, engagement of our county officials is an excellent opportunity to connect with the populace. I have been to one event in the past 3 years at which I have been encouraged to register to vote. One event. If there have been more, I am unaware of them, as are many other voters with whom I have spoken. As the Chief Election Officer in Ellis County, the Clerk has an awesome chance to help people realize their importance in the election process.&nbsp;

While the County Clerk position is an elected position, “not automatically handed down to the next person in line”, without other candidates running, as has been the case since 2012, it does become a de facto passing of the torch, so to speak. Experience and firsthand knowledge are a double edged sword. They bring with them the issues of the past, and defensiveness doesn’t always play well with innovation and improvement.&nbsp;

Accounting is a large part of the Business Administration Bachelor’s program at FHSU, and experience is gained through many routes, including management and Human Resources. They may not come from working in the office currently, but are no less relevant.&nbsp;

I appreciate the statutes referenced by the current Deputy County Clerk, and agree wholeheartedly that factual information is important. I don’t agree that any of the information provided is evidence of assumptions or untruths. I can agree that there will be a learning curve, as is always the case with any new endeavor.&nbsp;

At the heart of this write in campaign is my desire to make sure Ellis County citizens come to realize how important it is to take an active role in our government, make informed, reasoned decisions and make a difference.&nbsp;

Advanced mail in ballots may be requested now until July 28th. You can request an advance ballot by visiting <a href="http://www.ksvotes.org">www.ksvotes.org</a> or by calling the Ellis County Clerk at 785-628-9410. These completed ballots can be mailed back to 718 Main Street, Hays, Kansas 67601, or watch the following tutorial on using the drop box at the same address: <a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs&amp;fbclid=IwAR0XM1iPoA4LLJfNhSTlcPcb2GwdTk80AxcJYKLOTuEcRrKFfBdwbTxNnlg">https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs</a>. &nbsp;

You can vote early, in person, by visiting 718 Main Street beginning July 20, until noon on August 3, 2020. As always, you may vote during the primary election held on August 4th, 2020. Find your polling place (or check your voter registration) at <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview</a>.&nbsp;

If you are a registered democrat, please mark the bubble, then write my name in as County Clerk. Any registered unaffiliated voters may affiliate with a party when voting in the primary in person or when requesting an advance ballot. Please take a moment and support my write in campaign and affiliate as a democrat in order to write me in.

Every single vote counts. Every time.&nbsp;

Laura Allen, write-in candidate for Ellis County Clerk

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past. Let us accept our own responsibility for the future.” – John F. KennedyI use this quote because it is perfect for the County Clerk position for which I have recently announced my write in campaign. I have spent a good amount of time studying the Clerk position and responsibilities. In the course of that research I have also come across several news articles documenting a fair amount of animosity between county offices. As an active, engaged Ellis County citizen, I knew such animosity existed, but was unaware of how detrimental it was to the county and the people these offices are meant to represent.&nbsp;County Clerk duties in the state of Kansas, based on employment descriptions, are heavily clerical and accounting, not open to interpretation. Deadlines are mandated, also not open to interpretation. But, for whatever reason, in Ellis County there seems to be dissent among county offices about who is right, who is wrong, who is at fault, etc.In any working relationship this is far from efficient, time consuming and toxic. Instead of working together to benefit Ellis County and its residents, energies are spend on accusations and arguments. Case in point, a recent viral video, shared far and wide, of county officers at a Commission meeting. While the Clerk’s office was not directly involved in that exchange, the clerk’s office was represented. There was ample opportunity for any one of the many elected officials in attendance to be the voice of reason, but not one spoke up. In a healthy working relationship/environment, this would have never been acceptable. We deserve better.As the Chief Election Official for the county, however; the Clerk does have an amazing opportunity to work with the community and step outside the box. On the basest level, engagement of our county officials is an excellent opportunity to connect with the populace. I have been to one event in the past 3 years at which I have been encouraged to register to vote. One event. If there have been more, I am unaware of them, as are many other voters with whom I have spoken. As the Chief Election Officer in Ellis County, the Clerk has an awesome chance to help people realize their importance in the election process.&nbsp;While the County Clerk position is an elected position, “not automatically handed down to the next person in line”, without other candidates running, as has been the case since 2012, it does become a de facto passing of the torch, so to speak. Experience and firsthand knowledge are a double edged sword. They bring with them the issues of the past, and defensiveness doesn’t always play well with innovation and improvement.&nbsp;Accounting is a large part of the Business Administration Bachelor’s program at FHSU, and experience is gained through many routes, including management and Human Resources. They may not come from working in the office currently, but are no less relevant.&nbsp;I appreciate the statutes referenced by the current Deputy County Clerk, and agree wholeheartedly that factual information is important. I don’t agree that any of the information provided is evidence of assumptions or untruths. I can agree that there will be a learning curve, as is always the case with any new endeavor.&nbsp;At the heart of this write in campaign is my desire to make sure Ellis County citizens come to realize how important it is to take an active role in our government, make informed, reasoned decisions and make a difference.&nbsp;Advanced mail in ballots may be requested now until July 28th. You can request an advance ballot by visiting <a href="http://www.ksvotes.org">www.ksvotes.org</a> or by calling the Ellis County Clerk at 785-628-9410. These completed ballots can be mailed back to 718 Main Street, Hays, Kansas 67601, or watch the following tutorial on using the drop box at the same address: <a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs&amp;fbclid=IwAR0XM1iPoA4LLJfNhSTlcPcb2GwdTk80AxcJYKLOTuEcRrKFfBdwbTxNnlg">https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs</a>. &nbsp;You can vote early, in person, by visiting 718 Main Street beginning July 20, until noon on August 3, 2020. As always, you may vote during the primary election held on August 4th, 2020. Find your polling place (or check your voter registration) at <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview</a>.&nbsp;If you are a registered democrat, please mark the bubble, then write my name in as County Clerk. Any registered unaffiliated voters may affiliate with a party when voting in the primary in person or when requesting an advance ballot. Please take a moment and support my write in campaign and affiliate as a democrat in order to write me in.Every single vote counts. Every time.&nbsp;Laura Allen, write-in candidate for Ellis County Clerk

LETTER: Clerk position critical to community

The annual ACE auction for Hays Catholic Schools is set to kick off Friday, after moving online for the first time in 46 years.

During the auction, over 800 items will be sold along with raffles to support operations at both Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary.

"What it has grown into is a major component of our operating budget each year for our Hays Catholic schools," said Troy Ruda, advancement director. "It's an integral part of making sure we have our operational funds to pay great teachers and create wonderful opportunities for students."

Originally planned for April, the auction date was moved due to COVID-19 concerns, but as cases continued to rise in the area, the decision was made to shift the auction online.

"We started to say, 'What are our motives here?' " Ruda said. "Are our motives fundraising. Are our motives at all costs? Or are our motives to keep supporting the school while keeping people safe?"

The decision to shift online has been generally well-received, Ruda said.

"The response so far from having done that is overwhelmingly positive and supportive," he said.

And having the auction online opens the event to many more people than ever before.

"The advantages of the online platform are truly going to be great for us," Ruda said.

In previous years, the only people that purchased tickets for the event could bid on items, but with the online format it is open to anyone anywhere in the world, he said.

"This is actually going to have great advantages that we haven't expected," Ruda said.

<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/">The online format will open at 9 a.m. Friday on the TMP-M website and will run through 9 p.m. Saturday.</a>

Having never done an online auction before, Ruda said they reached out to HaysMed and the HaysMed Foundation to assist in setting it up through the online auction platform, ClickBid.

"They stepped up greatly to help us get this online in a short amount of time," Ruda said.

Once logging in, the user will have access to bid on all of the items throughout the auction.

"Its a very standard (online) auction," Ruda said.

And he said staff at the school alumni office are also ready and willing to assist participants to place bids for those who might not be comfortable with the online format.

"We will be your proxy bidder for you," Ruda said.

While planning for the online auction, a major concern was the platform so Ruda said they took the extra effort to ensure the auction vendor was reputable and safe.

"Because of the amount of others in our community using ClickBids we feel comfortable with it and we trust it," he said.

The auction will feature over 800 items to bid on, donated from the community.

"It's a testament to our community support for TMP and Holy Family," Ruda said.

Every item on the auction will have a description and a photo for participants who want to see details.

For those who want a hands-on look at the items, an open house will be hosted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday in the Al Billinger  Field House on the TMP-M campus.

But Ruda said the open house is not the same as the preview event that is typically hosted during the regular ACE auction.

Another feature of the auction — Item No. 60 — the "item-less item,"&nbsp; will again be available to bid on as a way for participants to donate to school operations.

"This item this year is the most important one we have ever had in that our Catholic schools do not get taxpayer funding," Ruda said. "This year's 'item-less item' is going to make sure we can attract and retain excellent teachers, provide the best opportunities for students and if there is anything left to continue to maintain our historical facilities."

And the Leo J. and Albina Dreiling Trust will once again be matching up to $200,000 raised for that item.

"They do this traditionally and their generosity has no bounds," Ruda said.

Raffles will also be available for interested parties during the auction.

"We are going to have a live raffle drawing on Friday evening at 8 p.m.," Ruda said. "We are going to have two $500 raffle drawings."&nbsp;

Another raffle for a donated car is also set to take place Saturday.

Winning bidders will be able to purchase their items at the Fieldhouse on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or if needed, arrangements can be made for a later pickup.

All of the details and access to the online auction and live raffle stream will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/" target="_blank">https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594990751128.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ACE auction moves online for 2020" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ffga4-e37998?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe annual ACE auction for Hays Catholic Schools is set to kick off Friday, after moving online for the first time in 46 years.During the auction, over 800 items will be sold along with raffles to support operations at both Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary."What it has grown into is a major component of our operating budget each year for our Hays Catholic schools," said Troy Ruda, advancement director. "It's an integral part of making sure we have our operational funds to pay great teachers and create wonderful opportunities for students."Originally planned for April, the auction date was moved due to COVID-19 concerns, but as cases continued to rise in the area, the decision was made to shift the auction online."We started to say, 'What are our motives here?' " Ruda said. "Are our motives fundraising. Are our motives at all costs? Or are our motives to keep supporting the school while keeping people safe?"The decision to shift online has been generally well-received, Ruda said."The response so far from having done that is overwhelmingly positive and supportive," he said.And having the auction online opens the event to many more people than ever before.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594990826765.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"The advantages of the online platform are truly going to be great for us," Ruda said.In previous years, the only people that purchased tickets for the event could bid on items, but with the online format it is open to anyone anywhere in the world, he said."This is actually going to have great advantages that we haven't expected," Ruda said.<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/">The online format will open at 9 a.m. Friday on the TMP-M website and will run through 9 p.m. Saturday.</a>Having never done an online auction before, Ruda said they reached out to HaysMed and the HaysMed Foundation to assist in setting it up through the online auction platform, ClickBid."They stepped up greatly to help us get this online in a short amount of time," Ruda said.Once logging in, the user will have access to bid on all of the items throughout the auction."Its a very standard (online) auction," Ruda said.And he said staff at the school alumni office are also ready and willing to assist participants to place bids for those who might not be comfortable with the online format."We will be your proxy bidder for you," Ruda said.While planning for the online auction, a major concern was the platform so Ruda said they took the extra effort to ensure the auction vendor was reputable and safe."Because of the amount of others in our community using ClickBids we feel comfortable with it and we trust it," he said.The auction will feature over 800 items to bid on, donated from the community."It's a testament to our community support for TMP and Holy Family," Ruda said.Every item on the auction will have a description and a photo for participants who want to see details.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594947130783.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For those who want a hands-on look at the items, an open house will be hosted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday in the Al Billinger Field House on the TMP-M campus.But Ruda said the open house is not the same as the preview event that is typically hosted during the regular ACE auction.Another feature of the auction — Item No. 60 — the "item-less item,"&nbsp; will again be available to bid on as a way for participants to donate to school operations."This item this year is the most important one we have ever had in that our Catholic schools do not get taxpayer funding," Ruda said. "This year's 'item-less item' is going to make sure we can attract and retain excellent teachers, provide the best opportunities for students and if there is anything left to continue to maintain our historical facilities."And the Leo J. and Albina Dreiling Trust will once again be matching up to $200,000 raised for that item."They do this traditionally and their generosity has no bounds," Ruda said.Raffles will also be available for interested parties during the auction."We are going to have a live raffle drawing on Friday evening at 8 p.m.," Ruda said. "We are going to have two $500 raffle drawings."&nbsp;Another raffle for a donated car is also set to take place Saturday.Winning bidders will be able to purchase their items at the Fieldhouse on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or if needed, arrangements can be made for a later pickup.All of the details and access to the online auction and live raffle stream will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/" target="_blank">https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/</a>

🎙 2020 ACE Auction to kick off online Friday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays High School has set its graduation for 10 a.m. Saturday, July 25, outside of the school.

A stage will be set up facing the student parking lot. There will be a small tent for parents who wish to set closer to the stage and also another small tent set up for guests with special needs who will need to be in the shade.

All others guests are asked to sit in the student parking area. They can bring their own chairs from home or use chairs that have been loaned to the school by the Wild West Festival committee.

Martin Staub, HHS principal, strongly encouraged families to sit together, but to social distance from other families.

The students will be asked to wear masks during the ceremony and their chairs will be spaced for social distancing. Guests are encouraged to wear masks, but they are not required.

The ceremony will be projected onto a large outdoor screen for those sitting in the parking lot. The graduation will also be live streamed on the <a href="http://www.hayshighindians.com/">HHS website</a>.

Parking attendants will be on-hand to direct traffic. Straub said he thought the high school will have plenty of room to seat all of the guests and accommodate parking.

HHS will be graduating about 175 students this year. During past graduations, HHS has hosted as many as 2,000 guests at ceremonies at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

However, Straub said he doubted that many people would attend the July 25 ceremony. He speculated some family members and friends will chose to watch the ceremony via live stream.

In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to the HHS gym A. If this happens, the school will be forced to restrict the number of guests for each student to no more than four.&nbsp;

"If we have to, we will set up in gym A if a storm comes through," Straub said. "We have become very flexible in the las five months. We’ll figure it out."

Seniors should have received an email with details of the graduation. Anyone who has questions, can call HHS at 785-623-2600.

Project Graduation will continue as scheduled on the evening of graduation.

The event will be open to students and their parents. Much of the event will be staged outside, weather permitting, Straub said.

"I am confident if we have a nice starry night, we will have that outside," he said. "It is good for safety and will add to the atmosphere to mark historically what these kids went through."

Below is the letter sent to Hays seniors on graduation.

Dear Hays High Class of 2020, Parents and Guardians,

We are about two weeks out from the date of your Class of 2020 Graduation Commencement so it’s time to share many details.

If you have any questions after reading the message below and reviewing the attached overhead maps of our HHS Campus and the commencement location, please allow us to assist by calling Hays High (623-2600) or by

emailing (<a href="mailto:mstraub@usd489.com" target="_blank">mstraub@usd489.com</a>).

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays High School has set its graduation for 10 a.m. Saturday, July 25, outside of the school.A stage will be set up facing the student parking lot. There will be a small tent for parents who wish to set closer to the stage and also another small tent set up for guests with special needs who will need to be in the shade.All others guests are asked to sit in the student parking area. They can bring their own chairs from home or use chairs that have been loaned to the school by the Wild West Festival committee.Martin Staub, HHS principal, strongly encouraged families to sit together, but to social distance from other families.The students will be asked to wear masks during the ceremony and their chairs will be spaced for social distancing. Guests are encouraged to wear masks, but they are not required.The ceremony will be projected onto a large outdoor screen for those sitting in the parking lot. The graduation will also be live streamed on the <a href="http://www.hayshighindians.com/">HHS website</a>.Parking attendants will be on-hand to direct traffic. Straub said he thought the high school will have plenty of room to seat all of the guests and accommodate parking.HHS will be graduating about 175 students this year. During past graduations, HHS has hosted as many as 2,000 guests at ceremonies at Gross Memorial Coliseum.However, Straub said he doubted that many people would attend the July 25 ceremony. He speculated some family members and friends will chose to watch the ceremony via live stream.In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to the HHS gym A. If this happens, the school will be forced to restrict the number of guests for each student to no more than four.&nbsp;"If we have to, we will set up in gym A if a storm comes through," Straub said. "We have become very flexible in the las five months. We’ll figure it out."Seniors should have received an email with details of the graduation. Anyone who has questions, can call HHS at 785-623-2600.Project Graduation will continue as scheduled on the evening of graduation.The event will be open to students and their parents. Much of the event will be staged outside, weather permitting, Straub said."I am confident if we have a nice starry night, we will have that outside," he said. "It is good for safety and will add to the atmosphere to mark historically what these kids went through."Below is the letter sent to Hays seniors on graduation.Dear Hays High Class of 2020, Parents and Guardians,We are about two weeks out from the date of your Class of 2020 Graduation Commencement so it’s time to share many details.If you have any questions after reading the message below and reviewing the attached overhead maps of our HHS Campus and the commencement location, please allow us to assist by calling Hays High (623-2600) or byemailing (<a href="mailto:mstraub@usd489.com" target="_blank">mstraub@usd489.com</a>).Seniors,<ol>
 <li>Commencement will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2020 on the campus of HHS near the front of the school on the student parking lot side of the building.</li><li>We will practice on Friday, July 24 at 9:00 a.m. at HHS.&nbsp; Meet at the black chairs at the front HHS main entrance. You do NOT need to bring your cap and gown to practice.&nbsp; Please be on time!</li><li>On Saturday before commencement, be at the HHS Commons/Gym A area by 9:15 a.m. Since we did not get to take Class of 2020 picture as planned in the spring, let’s take this last opportunity to get this done.&nbsp; It will be a nice keepsake for you. Parking may be limited so plan accordingly.</li><li>Graduation day dress… we can’t control the weather but plan for it to be hot.&nbsp; We encourage you to dress cool, yet appropriate, for the nice program that it will be.&nbsp; Gentlemen, a collared shirt is most appropriate.</li><li>Have you tried on your maroon cap and gown? Hang it up to reduce the wrinkles and be careful to use a COOL iron if your choose to iron it. Only National Honor Society stoles and Honor Cords should be worn.&nbsp; If you decorate your hat, keep it high school appropriate.</li><li>If you haven’t already done so, email Tammy Stewart, HHS Registrar (<a href="mailto:tstewart@usd489.com" target="_blank">tstewart@usd489.com</a>), where to send your final academic transcript.</li><li>Did you receive a scholarship this year?&nbsp; Send the organization, family, institution a “thank you” note.&nbsp; It matters!</li><li>Your HHS Diploma will be given to you after the program, it will not be in the maroon cover that you receive when you cross the stage (don’t panic when you see that the cover does not have the diploma).</li><li>The Project Graduation “Peace of Mind” (POM) Agreement must be signed and given to Mr. Jerett Pfannenstiel to participate. Project Graduation starts at 9:00 p.m.;&nbsp;let’s have 100% participation! Parents are encouraged to attend and usually do!&nbsp; Project Graduation is planned for HHS Gyms A and B.&nbsp; Stay tuned in the event of any required changes… we are studying the possibility of having the event outside.&nbsp; Again, stay tuned!</li>
 </ol>Seniors and Parents/Guardians,<ol>
 <li>The business, “Grad Images” will be taking professional photos at the event.&nbsp; They will be sure to get an excellent picture of every graduate as he/she receives the maroon diploma cover from our USD 489 BOE President, Michael Walker.&nbsp; No need to fret; just relax and enjoy the event.&nbsp; A link to the&nbsp; picture proof will be emailed to you and can be purchased for a reasonable price. Website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gradimages.com/" target="_blank">www.gradimages.com</a>.</li><li>Hays High’s Channel 13 will live stream, record, and sell the program in DVD format as a Channel 13 fundraiser.&nbsp; Email Mr. Dan Balman after July 25th&nbsp;if interested (<a href="mailto:dbalman@usd489.com" target="_blank">dbalman@usd489.com</a>).</li><li>Celebrating as a family when you/your student is recognized is appropriate and encouraged, but stop shortly after your student’s name is read.&nbsp; It is so very important that every student – every family - is able to hear their student’s name, uninterrupted, by another family. Let’s show respect to each graduate’s experience.&nbsp; Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.</li>
 </ol>Ceremony Site Arrangement:<ol>
 <li>Attached are two maps of HHS in an attempt to help you understand our plan for the day.</li><li>We have hired parking managers who will help fill the HHS front and back parking lots and several grass areas on campus. Please park where they ask you to park.</li><li>A professional stage with quality sound has been secured for the event. See map’s yellow box for location.</li><li>We have rented a 40’ x 60’ tent for parents &amp; HHS staff (see blue box labeled “Parents”) in an attempt to provide some shade. ONLY parents/guardians/HHS staff will be allowed to sit here. Obviously, parents/guardians aren’t required to sit here; we’re just trying to provide you the second best (graduates get best seats) area to view the event with shade.</li><li>We have rented a 20’ x 40’ tent for our HHS Staff and guests with special needs because of age or other physical impairment (see blue box labeled “Special Needs”). Please, ONLY the person with special needs should sit in this area.</li><li>All other guests will sit on chairs in the parking lot.&nbsp; We are borrowing over 1000 chairs from the Wild West Festival folks (THANK YOU WWF!) and they will be available for guests to place in a manner they are most comfortable with regarding social distancing.&nbsp;&nbsp;We STRONGLY encourage everyone to social distance between families but also understand that your family will want to sit together.&nbsp; We will not “police” this but beg you to cooperate with one another and keep distance between families.</li><li>Graduates and guests are certainly welcome and encouraged to wear masks but are not required to do so.</li><li>Please feel free to bring your own folding chair if you worry the WWF chairs will not meet your needs; we are limited in the number that will be available.&nbsp; We will have the guest seating area cordoned off beginning Friday morning… you’re welcome to check out the setup if you like.</li><li>You’re encouraged to bring an umbrella for shade.&nbsp; Please do not obstruct the view of the stage for others. We’ve been asked whether families can set up “shade tents” in the parking lot for family members.&nbsp; Yes, that is fine as long as you do not obstruct view of the stage. If you set up a shade tent, do so around the outside parameter of the roped-off guest seating area.</li>
 </ol>Inclement Weather:<ol>
 <li>It’s July in Hays, KS, so we like our odds, but we must be prepared for inclement weather on the day of the event.&nbsp; Here’s the hard part…</li><li>If stormy weather requires a change of plans, the alternate site for the ceremony will be in our HHS Gym A.</li><li>If Gym A is used, we will have to limit the number of guests, for each graduate, who can attend in person. Each graduate would be given the same number of tickets and a ticket would be required for each person to enter.&nbsp; We will work with the Ellis County Health Department in determining the number of tickets per graduate if plan B is needed. Whether the ceremony is inside or outside, the ceremony will be livestreamed.</li><li>If Gym A is used, the number allowed to attend will be less than the facility capacity to allow for social distancing.&nbsp; We will STRONGLY encourage all attendees to wear a mask.</li><li>I’ve never felt the need to pray for good hot and dry Kansas weather during the last week in July in Hays, KS&nbsp;until this year.</li>
 </ol>Again, please allow us to answer any other questions you may have by calling HHS (623-2600) or email (<a href="mailto:mstraub@usd489.com" target="_blank">mstraub@usd489.com</a>). We are thankful that we will be able to recognize this resilient awesome group of Hays High Indians!

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