Thomas More-Prep Marian and Holy Family Elementary school in
Hays are set to return to school on August 24. 

Principals Chad Meitner and Rachel Wentling <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjmLD7XVFUA&amp;feature=youtu.be&amp;fbclid=IwAR02WBrE3PcuUVruKR5IPIKG_MpIecCHHtKY6C-6NnecNubO7KhfaSkISd8">outlined the reopening
pla</a>n, amid the COVID-19 pandemic for the fall semester this week.

The plan, <a href="https://secureservercdn.net/45.40.150.47/829.ef5.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/HCS-Reopening-Plan-1.pdf">Moving Forward in Hope</a>, has three possible types of
instruction — onsite, remote and hybrid.

Meitner said this allows the school to
respond to different situations.

“If we can be on onsite instruction the whole time, we’re
ready to do that,” Meitner said. “If we need to tighten thing up a little bit
because we start to see things getting worse, as far as the spread of COVID,
then we can do that as well.”

Wentling said the school hopes the
flexibility allows students in the building as much as possible.

“We learned last spring, while teachers and parents did a
fantastic job adjusting in that crisis situation, we know that the best
education that we can provide happens within the walls of our building,”
Wentling said.

Orientation for junior high and new high school students at
TMP-M will be Aug. 21. Holy Family will start school with two half-days.

“We are going to be teaching the students a lot of new
procedures,” said Wentling. “Coming to school the way they have in the past? That’s history, and we’re going to have to teach them how to do new procedures.”

Wentling said that time will also give students time to
readjust to being in school after nearly six months.

Among the possible precautions the schools will take when
students return to school is daily screenings that include temperature checks
and a screening questionnaire. 

They will also encourage families and faculty and staff to
practice habits to prevent the spread of the flu and other illness. Those
measures include hand washing, socially distancing and staying home when not
feeling well.

The measures are further outlined in the schools plan which
available on the TMP website.

That does include a requirement that all students, staff
members and visitors must have a facial covering or mask.

The schools fall under the Kansas Department of Education’s guidelines
and the KSDE and the city of Hays both have mask requirements. Masks at both
schools must adhere to school dress code.

Meitler said the mask requirements, the social distancing
and the more frequent hand washing and cleaning will allow for a more normal
experience. 

Wentling said the Hays community has been fortunate to not
be as impacted by the coronavirus as some other communities.

“When we bring all of our students back under one roof, we’re
going to be the largest mass gatherings in town,” Wentling said.

She added that they will have to be ready to make
adjustments as they learn more about each situation.

“We never had a chance to do this last spring because school
was called off before we every had an opportunity to find out what would happen
with our students and with our teachers and with our families” Wentling said.

Both principals expressed optimism about returning to school
but added there is a level of risk.

“I’m just excited to get started,” said Meitner. “I’m
optimistic that we can be together a lot if we follow these precautions
faithfully, even now.

“What we do as families and educators and parents can help
set the stage for a much safe environment that lets up stay together longer
and more consistently,” Meitler said.

&nbsp;The principals said
they will continue share more information as the start of the school years
nears.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594947187319.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThomas More-Prep Marian and Holy Family Elementary school in
Hays are set to return to school on August 24. Principals Chad Meitner and Rachel Wentling <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjmLD7XVFUA&amp;feature=youtu.be&amp;fbclid=IwAR02WBrE3PcuUVruKR5IPIKG_MpIecCHHtKY6C-6NnecNubO7KhfaSkISd8">outlined the reopening
pla</a>n, amid the COVID-19 pandemic for the fall semester this week.The plan, <a href="https://secureservercdn.net/45.40.150.47/829.ef5.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/HCS-Reopening-Plan-1.pdf">Moving Forward in Hope</a>, has three possible types of
instruction — onsite, remote and hybrid.Meitner said this allows the school to
respond to different situations.“If we can be on onsite instruction the whole time, we’re
ready to do that,” Meitner said. “If we need to tighten thing up a little bit
because we start to see things getting worse, as far as the spread of COVID,
then we can do that as well.”Wentling said the school hopes the
flexibility allows students in the building as much as possible.“We learned last spring, while teachers and parents did a
fantastic job adjusting in that crisis situation, we know that the best
education that we can provide happens within the walls of our building,”
Wentling said.Orientation for junior high and new high school students at
TMP-M will be Aug. 21. Holy Family will start school with two half-days.“We are going to be teaching the students a lot of new
procedures,” said Wentling. “Coming to school the way they have in the past? That’s history, and we’re going to have to teach them how to do new procedures.”Wentling said that time will also give students time to
readjust to being in school after nearly six months.Among the possible precautions the schools will take when
students return to school is daily screenings that include temperature checks
and a screening questionnaire. They will also encourage families and faculty and staff to
practice habits to prevent the spread of the flu and other illness. Those
measures include hand washing, socially distancing and staying home when not
feeling well.The measures are further outlined in the schools plan which
available on the TMP website.That does include a requirement that all students, staff
members and visitors must have a facial covering or mask.The schools fall under the Kansas Department of Education’s guidelines
and the KSDE and the city of Hays both have mask requirements. Masks at both
schools must adhere to school dress code.Meitler said the mask requirements, the social distancing
and the more frequent hand washing and cleaning will allow for a more normal
experience. Wentling said the Hays community has been fortunate to not
be as impacted by the coronavirus as some other communities.“When we bring all of our students back under one roof, we’re
going to be the largest mass gatherings in town,” Wentling said.She added that they will have to be ready to make
adjustments as they learn more about each situation.“We never had a chance to do this last spring because school
was called off before we every had an opportunity to find out what would happen
with our students and with our teachers and with our families” Wentling said.Both principals expressed optimism about returning to school
but added there is a level of risk.“I’m just excited to get started,” said Meitner. “I’m
optimistic that we can be together a lot if we follow these precautions
faithfully, even now.“What we do as families and educators and parents can help
set the stage for a much safe environment that lets up stay together longer
and more consistently,” Meitler said.&nbsp;The principals said
they will continue share more information as the start of the school years
nears.

Hays Catholic schools lay out return plan

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board voted Thursday to start school in-person on Wednesday, Aug. 26.&nbsp;

The school board weighed four other options, including starting school on Aug. 19 either in person or remotely or starting in person on Sept. 1 or Sept. 8.&nbsp;

Educators say they want kids back on site

Several school principals spoke to the board about the start date during Thursday's special meeting. They all expressed a desire to have students back in schools for in-person learning. They said they thought in-person learning would best to meet students's academic, social and emotional needs.

The educators expressed concerns schools might have to return to remote learning if COVID-19 numbers increase. Several said they were concerned COVID-19 numbers were likely to increase as Fort Hays State University students to return to Hays next month.

The administrators said opening in August would allow students to meet and connect with their teachers and learn about remote learning.

Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal, said meeting teachers is very important to small children, especially for kindergarten students who are experiencing school for the first time.

"My biggest fear is to start completely remote with 5-, 6-, 7- and 8-year-olds," Lacy said. "I have 5-year-olds that don't even know what a teacher is."

Lacy told the board teachers will be prepared no matter what start date the board chose.

Surveys say remote learning not preferred

The district surveyed parents and teachers, and starting remotely was not a popular choice among district stakeholders,&nbsp; Board President Mike Walker said.

Lance Krannawitter, HHS assistant principal and activities director, said the high school has already had between 250 and 450 students go through its doors on a daily basis for weights training.&nbsp;

The school has been taking student temperatures daily and rigorously cleaning equipment, he said.

"If you want to use that as an example," he said, "we're ready to go. The number of coaches and teachers I have talked to, they are ready to go also."

He continued "The kids have been out of school for so long. They have been away from activities for so long. If we delay the school any more and then maybe we have to go to a phase three situation that makes us have to cancel school, that is just all the fewer school days that we have with our students."

KSHSAA has set Aug. 17 as the start date for activity practices. He said HHS intends to keep with that calendar regardless of the school start date.

Martin Straub, HHS principal, said he is especially concerned about the social and emotional needs of the students.

"We are very, very interested in seeing our kids, in the event their is growth [of COVID-19] in the area, so we can try to connect with them as much as possible," Straub said.

Board member Lance Bickle asked Straub about surveys sent to the teachers on which option they would choose. Straub said a Hays NEA survey indicated teachers most favored starting in-person learning to start on Aug. 19.

Straub said he wants to get students back in school so they can focus on something positive and build a culture of school again.

Hays Middle School Principal Tom Albers said he was setting a goal for his teachers to instruct students on remote learning in the first week to week and a half of school. 

Then the students could practice remote learning on-site the second week of school. He said he wanted students to be prepared if the school district has to go back to remote learning.

Like Lacy, Albers said he was concerned about HMS's youngest students — the sixth graders who will experiencing the middle school routine for the first time.

Teachers, staff will receive safety training

Walker asked if the district had enough time to train teachers and staff on COVID-19 safety protocols.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said all of the calendar options that were presented included an extra in-service day to train staff and teachers in COVID-19 safety protocols.

Board member Allen Park asked if all of the cleaning supplies and equipment was going to be ready for an August start date.

Rusty Lindsay, director of buildings and grounds, said most of the cleaning supplies the district has ordered have arrived. If it doesn't receive the last of the items next week, it has alternatives to cover all of its needs.

Wilson also said the district hopes to add another nurse who will be designated as the contact person on all COVID-19 questions and concerns. It would be a one-year position.

Board member Tammy Wellbrock asked if the later options were not favored by teachers and parents becuase a delayed start of school would mean the end of school would be pushed into June.

Wilson said his goal for Thursday was to get a start date and then the calendar committee would reconvene to work out the calendar revisions, including an end date.

Wilson Elementary School Principal Anita Scheve, who is on the calendar committee, said she thought if the district would start school on Aug. 26, the calendar could be adjusted to still end school before Memorial Day.

Wilson said breaks might have to be shortened to do that because the Kansas Board of Education has not reduced the number of contact hours required for students.

Wilson said some people have suggested adding minutes to the school day. He said that is not preferred. He said adding minutes does not necessarily mean the same amount or quality of learning will take place.

Ellis County has had more cases of COVID-19 in recent weeks. The delayed start dates were proposed in hopes local COVID-19 numbers would decline by the start of school, Wilson said. However, he said the opposite could happen. Ellis County could have more cases if the district waits.

Bickle said Aug. 26 was a good compromise between Aug. 19 and the dates in September.

Wellbrock asked about the possibility of opening in a hybrid phase. In this phase students would attend on-site part-time and engage in remote learning part-time.

Wilson said many of the details of hybrid learning still have yet to be determined. He added this is going to be most challenging phase in terms of logistics for both the district and families.

Wilson said the district will consult the health professionals and the county public health officer about moving between phases. He said he hopes to meet with this group weekly on Wednesdays. The group hopes to have a phase change take affect on a Monday, so everyone would have four days to make adjustments to new schedules.

The district has developed a matrix to aid in that decision-making process, but Wilson said it does not include any specific numbers for what would trigger a phase change. Health officials advised the district officials will need to look at a variety of factors.

All the board members thanked the community, parents, teachers and staff for the input they gave on the proposed start dates and draft school reopening plan.

Walker acknowledged in his opening remarks any decision the board made would not please everyone. He said the board members are listening and trying to respond to concerns and have the children's, teachers's and staff's safety in the forefront of their minds.

Wilson said he hopes the community will continue to be have patience, flexibility and grace with the district as it moves forward, as plans will likely need to be changed as the school year progress.

Wilson also noted a change since Monday. He learned KSHSAA has changed it policy and will allow online-only students to participate in extracurricular activities. The district has changed its policy to match KSHSAA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596142219432.jpeg" alt="The Hays USD 489 school board met Thursday to decide on a start date for the 2020-21 school year." />
 <figcaption>The Hays USD 489 school board met Thursday to decide on a start date for the 2020-21 school year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted Thursday to start school in-person on Wednesday, Aug. 26.&nbsp;Their vote was unanimous.The school board weighed four other options, including starting school on Aug. 19 either in person or remotely or starting in person on Sept. 1 or Sept. 8.&nbsp;<h2>Educators say they want kids back on site</h2>Several school principals spoke to the board about the start date during Thursday's special meeting. They all expressed a desire to have students back in schools for in-person learning. They said they thought in-person learning would best to meet students's academic, social and emotional needs.The educators expressed concerns schools might have to return to remote learning if COVID-19 numbers increase. Several said they were concerned COVID-19 numbers were likely to increase as Fort Hays State University students to return to Hays next month.The administrators said opening in August would allow students to meet and connect with their teachers and learn about remote learning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596142491446.jpeg" alt="Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal" />
 <figcaption>Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal</figcaption>
 </figure>Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal, said meeting teachers is very important to small children, especially for kindergarten students who are experiencing school for the first time."My biggest fear is to start completely remote with 5-, 6-, 7- and 8-year-olds," Lacy said. "I have 5-year-olds that don't even know what a teacher is."Lacy told the board teachers will be prepared no matter what start date the board chose.<h2>Surveys say remote learning not preferred</h2>The district surveyed parents and teachers, and starting remotely was not a popular choice among district stakeholders,&nbsp; Board President Mike Walker said.Lance Krannawitter, HHS assistant principal and activities director, said the high school has already had between 250 and 450 students go through its doors on a daily basis for weights training.&nbsp;The school has been taking student temperatures daily and rigorously cleaning equipment, he said."If you want to use that as an example," he said, "we're ready to go. The number of coaches and teachers I have talked to, they are ready to go also."He continued "The kids have been out of school for so long. They have been away from activities for so long. If we delay the school any more and then maybe we have to go to a phase three situation that makes us have to cancel school, that is just all the fewer school days that we have with our students."KSHSAA has set Aug. 17 as the start date for activity practices. He said HHS intends to keep with that calendar regardless of the school start date.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596143331572.jpeg" alt="Lance Krannawitter,&nbsp;HHS assistant principal and activities director" />
 <figcaption>Lance Krannawitter,&nbsp;HHS assistant principal and activities director</figcaption>
 </figure>Martin Straub, HHS principal, said he is especially concerned about the social and emotional needs of the students."We are very, very interested in seeing our kids, in the event their is growth [of COVID-19] in the area, so we can try to connect with them as much as possible," Straub said.Board member Lance Bickle asked Straub about surveys sent to the teachers on which option they would choose. Straub said a Hays NEA survey indicated teachers most favored starting in-person learning to start on Aug. 19.Straub said he wants to get students back in school so they can focus on something positive and build a culture of school again.Hays Middle School Principal Tom Albers said he was setting a goal for his teachers to instruct students on remote learning in the first week to week and a half of school. Then the students could practice remote learning on-site the second week of school. He said he wanted students to be prepared if the school district has to go back to remote learning.Like Lacy, Albers said he was concerned about HMS's youngest students — the sixth graders who will experiencing the middle school routine for the first time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596143108590.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Teachers, staff will receive safety training</h2>Walker asked if the district had enough time to train teachers and staff on COVID-19 safety protocols.Superintendent Ron Wilson said all of the calendar options that were presented included an extra in-service day to train staff and teachers in COVID-19 safety protocols.Board member Allen Park asked if all of the cleaning supplies and equipment was going to be ready for an August start date.Rusty Lindsay, director of buildings and grounds, said most of the cleaning supplies the district has ordered have arrived. If it doesn't receive the last of the items next week, it has alternatives to cover all of its needs.Wilson also said the district hopes to add another nurse who will be designated as the contact person on all COVID-19 questions and concerns. It would be a one-year position.<h2>Shooting for ending year by Memorial Day</h2>Board member Tammy Wellbrock asked if the later options were not favored by teachers and parents becuase a delayed start of school would mean the end of school would be pushed into June.Wilson said his goal for Thursday was to get a start date and then the calendar committee would reconvene to work out the calendar revisions, including an end date.Wilson Elementary School Principal Anita Scheve, who is on the calendar committee, said she thought if the district would start school on Aug. 26, the calendar could be adjusted to still end school before Memorial Day.Wilson said breaks might have to be shortened to do that because the Kansas Board of Education has not reduced the number of contact hours required for students.Wilson said some people have suggested adding minutes to the school day. He said that is not preferred. He said adding minutes does not necessarily mean the same amount or quality of learning will take place.<h2>A compromise</h2>Ellis County has had more cases of COVID-19 in recent weeks. The delayed start dates were proposed in hopes local COVID-19 numbers would decline by the start of school, Wilson said. However, he said the opposite could happen. Ellis County could have more cases if the district waits.Bickle said Aug. 26 was a good compromise between Aug. 19 and the dates in September.Wellbrock asked about the possibility of opening in a hybrid phase. In this phase students would attend on-site part-time and engage in remote learning part-time.Wilson said many of the details of hybrid learning still have yet to be determined. He added this is going to be most challenging phase in terms of logistics for both the district and families.Wilson said the district will consult the health professionals and the county public health officer about moving between phases. He said he hopes to meet with this group weekly on Wednesdays. The group hopes to have a phase change take affect on a Monday, so everyone would have four days to make adjustments to new schedules.The district has developed a matrix to aid in that decision-making process, but Wilson said it does not include any specific numbers for what would trigger a phase change. Health officials advised the district officials will need to look at a variety of factors.<h2>Patience, flexibility and grace</h2>All the board members thanked the community, parents, teachers and staff for the input they gave on the proposed start dates and draft school reopening plan.Walker acknowledged in his opening remarks any decision the board made would not please everyone. He said the board members are listening and trying to respond to concerns and have the children's, teachers's and staff's safety in the forefront of their minds.Wilson said he hopes the community will continue to be have patience, flexibility and grace with the district as it moves forward, as plans will likely need to be changed as the school year progress.Wilson also noted a change since Monday. He learned KSHSAA has changed it policy and will allow online-only students to participate in extracurricular activities. The district has changed its policy to match KSHSAA.

Hays USD 489 sets school start date, talks reopening

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, the east leg of the intersection of Pine and 16th Street — the 300 block of East 16th — will be closed to through traffic for pavement repairs. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day Friday. 

For more information, call the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, the east leg of the intersection of Pine and 16th Street — the 300 block of East 16th — will be closed to through traffic for pavement repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day Friday. For more information, call the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

Pine, 16th intersection will be closed for repairs

Retired U.S. Army General Eric Shinseki said, “If you dislike change, you’re going to dislike irrelevance even more.” One of the many things I have always loved about Fort Hays State University is that our culture of innovation has made us both nimble and accomplished change agents.

Thank you, FHSU colleagues, for always being in motion and embracing change. I value your creativity and dedication. It is because of your efforts that this university remains relevant.

One area that really sets us apart is our Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies (TILT) colleagues, who provide the FHSU teaching community with a range of programs and services centered around effective teaching and innovative learning practices. The development of this center is central to so many successes today, including our ability to redevelop course materials for the online deployment of classes in China when the coronavirus first began.&nbsp;

When the COVID-19 pandemic began in January, our TILT colleagues were on it, ready to ensure the successful delivery of a high-quality teaching and learning experience to our students at Sias University and Shenyang Normal University. Although we could guarantee our faculty had the tools and technology to deliver the courses, the same could not be said for all the students.

Our TILT colleagues worked relentlessly to ensure that all materials could be deployed through cell phones. The cell phone deployment involved in part redesigning the student interface to access assignments and exams and addressing the challenge of an English vs. Chinese keyboard on a mobile phone. That included creating a student guidebook on how to access mobile app and creating a video tutorial. TILT even created a video tutorial in Mandarin to ensure students’ success. The team’s ingenuity, dedication, and nimbleness were simply extraordinary.

In a highly publicized survey, 75 percent of college students from a number of well-known universities said they were disappointed with the quality of their learning experience after the pandemic forced universities to transition classes to remote learning this past spring. I am happy to report that such was not the case here at FHSU.&nbsp;

A majority of FHSU students who transitioned to remote learning said that the organization of their courses remained consistent after the transition. In fact, over 80 percent of Fort Hays State students, who had been taking their courses in traditional classrooms, reported that their instructors had acknowledged the special circumstances students were facing. Instructors&nbsp; reached out after the transition to make sure the students had all the resources they needed to continue their studies. They also made sure their students understood how to stay connected with their courses and instructors.

These preliminary results came from a survey of over 700 FHSU students conducted by the TILT team in early May. The feedback from students was heartening, but what they reported that they missed most was the sense of connection with one another and their instructors as a community of learners. This certainly isn’t surprising, and it is a sentiment echoed by FHSU faculty.&nbsp;

These connections are part of the learning process, and TILT’s mission is to help faculty promote engaging and productive communities of learners, regardless of what course delivery will ultimately look like this fall.&nbsp;

As we prepare for the coming semester and new modes of learning, TILT has created a new webpage dedicated to providing resources for Fall 2020 course design and delivery, including the newly constituted <a href="https://tigerlearn.fhsu.edu/fhsu-faculty-resource-network/">FHSU Faculty Resource Network</a>. This network comes out of the great work done by the COVID-19 planning group of approximately 20 FHSU faculty.

The TILT team has also been hard at work creating workshops and supporting platforms designed to provide faculty with tools and strategies for engaging students in the learning process.

Not only is TILT expanding the use of technology it has successfully used for a number of years, the team is excited about new discussion tools featuring cutting-edge, innovative technology.&nbsp;

Yellowdig, which been used successfully at FHSU since 2016, is a platform designed to allow strong organic conversations to take place among students involved in a course and also allows participants to add images and videos. PackBack is a promising new tool designed to spark student curiosity and engagement in an online environment, helping students formulate high quality questions and responses to improve their critical thinking skills. And this semester, TILT is piloting Hypothes.is, a collaborative annotation tool that allows an instructor to embed an article or textbook selection into Blackboard, and students can collaboratively highlight the document.

While these technologies are certainly beneficial in helping to build communities of learners, TILT is also focusing on the basics. This month, two 24-faculty cohorts are participating in a two-week asynchronous workshop called Levelling Up with Blackboard. Preparation is also underway for Fall Professional Development Day in mid-August.&nbsp; This will be our first online version of Professional Development Day and will feature more than 40 sessions led by FHSU faculty and staff. Included will be two sessions from a research group, comprised of TILT members and faculty, who are continuing to analyze the rich stories and feedback provided by students in the May survey.&nbsp;

Our community is clearly driven by what George Kuh calls a spirit of positive restlessness. Never&nbsp; quite satisfied with our performance, Fort Hays State faculty, staff, and students are always searching for new ways to break the status quo and create unlimited and exciting possibilities for tomorrow. This is one of many reasons why we are one of the best educational values in the nation!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Retired U.S. Army General Eric Shinseki said, “If you dislike change, you’re going to dislike irrelevance even more.” One of the many things I have always loved about Fort Hays State University is that our culture of innovation has made us both nimble and accomplished change agents.Thank you, FHSU colleagues, for always being in motion and embracing change. I value your creativity and dedication. It is because of your efforts that this university remains relevant.One area that really sets us apart is our Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies (TILT) colleagues, who provide the FHSU teaching community with a range of programs and services centered around effective teaching and innovative learning practices. The development of this center is central to so many successes today, including our ability to redevelop course materials for the online deployment of classes in China when the coronavirus first began.&nbsp;When the COVID-19 pandemic began in January, our TILT colleagues were on it, ready to ensure the successful delivery of a high-quality teaching and learning experience to our students at Sias University and Shenyang Normal University. Although we could guarantee our faculty had the tools and technology to deliver the courses, the same could not be said for all the students.Our TILT colleagues worked relentlessly to ensure that all materials could be deployed through cell phones. The cell phone deployment involved in part redesigning the student interface to access assignments and exams and addressing the challenge of an English vs. Chinese keyboard on a mobile phone. That included creating a student guidebook on how to access mobile app and creating a video tutorial. TILT even created a video tutorial in Mandarin to ensure students’ success. The team’s ingenuity, dedication, and nimbleness were simply extraordinary.In a highly publicized survey, 75 percent of college students from a number of well-known universities said they were disappointed with the quality of their learning experience after the pandemic forced universities to transition classes to remote learning this past spring. I am happy to report that such was not the case here at FHSU.&nbsp;A majority of FHSU students who transitioned to remote learning said that the organization of their courses remained consistent after the transition. In fact, over 80 percent of Fort Hays State students, who had been taking their courses in traditional classrooms, reported that their instructors had acknowledged the special circumstances students were facing. Instructors&nbsp; reached out after the transition to make sure the students had all the resources they needed to continue their studies. They also made sure their students understood how to stay connected with their courses and instructors.These preliminary results came from a survey of over 700 FHSU students conducted by the TILT team in early May. The feedback from students was heartening, but what they reported that they missed most was the sense of connection with one another and their instructors as a community of learners. This certainly isn’t surprising, and it is a sentiment echoed by FHSU faculty.&nbsp;These connections are part of the learning process, and TILT’s mission is to help faculty promote engaging and productive communities of learners, regardless of what course delivery will ultimately look like this fall.&nbsp;As we prepare for the coming semester and new modes of learning, TILT has created a new webpage dedicated to providing resources for Fall 2020 course design and delivery, including the newly constituted <a href="https://tigerlearn.fhsu.edu/fhsu-faculty-resource-network/">FHSU Faculty Resource Network</a>. This network comes out of the great work done by the COVID-19 planning group of approximately 20 FHSU faculty.The TILT team has also been hard at work creating workshops and supporting platforms designed to provide faculty with tools and strategies for engaging students in the learning process.Not only is TILT expanding the use of technology it has successfully used for a number of years, the team is excited about new discussion tools featuring cutting-edge, innovative technology.&nbsp;Yellowdig, which been used successfully at FHSU since 2016, is a platform designed to allow strong organic conversations to take place among students involved in a course and also allows participants to add images and videos. PackBack is a promising new tool designed to spark student curiosity and engagement in an online environment, helping students formulate high quality questions and responses to improve their critical thinking skills. And this semester, TILT is piloting Hypothes.is, a collaborative annotation tool that allows an instructor to embed an article or textbook selection into Blackboard, and students can collaboratively highlight the document.While these technologies are certainly beneficial in helping to build communities of learners, TILT is also focusing on the basics. This month, two 24-faculty cohorts are participating in a two-week asynchronous workshop called Levelling Up with Blackboard. Preparation is also underway for Fall Professional Development Day in mid-August.&nbsp; This will be our first online version of Professional Development Day and will feature more than 40 sessions led by FHSU faculty and staff. Included will be two sessions from a research group, comprised of TILT members and faculty, who are continuing to analyze the rich stories and feedback provided by students in the May survey.&nbsp;Our community is clearly driven by what George Kuh calls a spirit of positive restlessness. Never&nbsp; quite satisfied with our performance, Fort Hays State faculty, staff, and students are always searching for new ways to break the status quo and create unlimited and exciting possibilities for tomorrow. This is one of many reasons why we are one of the best educational values in the nation!&nbsp;

MASON: Change is seamless at Fort Hays State

Three-day weather outlook

The Osborne police department was investigating a death that occurred Friday in Osborne.

"On July 31 at approximately 10:40 p.m. the Osborne Police Department was notified of a shooting that occurred on Washington St. in Osborne," according to a facebook announcement posted by the department Saturday. 

"A deceased individual was located in the residence and the scene was secured for processing," the department said.

The Osborne County Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation were assisting in the investigation.

The name of the victim has not been released.

Hays PostThe Osborne police department was investigating a death that occurred Friday in Osborne."On July 31 at approximately 10:40 p.m. the Osborne Police Department was notified of a shooting that occurred on Washington St. in Osborne," according to a facebook announcement posted by the department Saturday. "A deceased individual was located in the residence and the scene was secured for processing," the department said.The Osborne County Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation were assisting in the investigation.The name of the victim has not been released.

Shooting death under investigation in Osborne

From a health standpoint, vegetables are a five-star food group: naturally nutrient-rich; better tasting than a vitamin pill; low in calories and fat; cholesterol-free; and packed with disease-fighting phytonutrients. To maximize your health with vegetables, nutrition experts suggest at least three to five servings per day – in a rainbow of colors. All types of vegetables can be nourishing and delicious – fresh, frozen, canned, and juiced. Here are a dozen daily ways to treat yourself to good health!

I hope you will consider joining me at the Thursday, Summer Street Stroll on August 3rd in Great Bend. I will have a booth set up with excellent Extension resources. I will also offer free canner gauge testing from 4 – 6 PM.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>From a health standpoint, vegetables are a five-star food group: naturally nutrient-rich; better tasting than a vitamin pill; low in calories and fat; cholesterol-free; and packed with disease-fighting phytonutrients. To maximize your health with vegetables, nutrition experts suggest at least three to five servings per day – in a rainbow of colors. All types of vegetables can be nourishing and delicious – fresh, frozen, canned, and juiced. Here are a dozen daily ways to treat yourself to good health!<ul>
 <li>Broccoli and cauliflower:&nbsp; Versatile and very healthful – eat them raw or cooked, in a salad, or even a slaw.</li><li>Carrots: Sweet, crunchy, good for your teeth, eyes and heart! Perfect raw or cooked in a stew.</li><li>Peppers: Green, red, yellow, orange, or even purple! Enjoy peppers in a salad, stir-fry=casserole, or as a snack.</li><li>Spinach: A salad of baby spinach leaves with pears, apples, or dried cranberries can turn anyone into a real spinach lover.</li><li>Onions: The zesty onion family, including scallions, leeks, and garlic too, offer some powerful antioxidant nutrients.</li><li>Peas: Fresh, frozen, or even canned, peas are a treat to eat – and they are very popular with young children.</li><li>Beets: If you have never liked beets, try them in a new way – like roasted, grilled or lightly steamed in the microwave.</li><li>Sweet potatoes or yams: Switch the color on your usual baked potato – and you will get a lot more nutrients, along with great taste.</li><li>Mushrooms: Just a mushroom or two adds rich flavor to a casserole, soup, stew, stir-fry, or even a tossed green salad.</li><li>Leaf and romaine lettuce: Rule of thumb for a healthy salad: the darker green or red the lettuce leaves, the more nutrients you get.</li><li>Green, yellow or purple beans: Like their pea “cousins” beans offer some fiber and a little bit of protein, along with vitamins and minerals.</li><li>Tomatoes: Cooking increases the availability of some tomato nutrients – so enjoy canned sauce, paste and chunks.</li>
 </ul>I hope you will consider joining me at the Thursday, Summer Street Stroll on August 3rd in Great Bend. I will have a booth set up with excellent Extension resources. I will also offer free canner gauge testing from 4 – 6 PM.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Delicious, easy ways to enjoy vegetables

GOVE COUNTY – The Pratt Police Department reported that 79-year-old James Flummerfelt, the subject of a statewide silver alert, was located by the Gove County Sheriff’s Office in Gove County. He was then taken to a local hospital for treatment.

PRATT COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pratt Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Pratt man.

The whereabouts of James “Jim” E. Flummerfelt, 79, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him, according to a media release from the KBI.

Jim is a white male, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, with gray hair and hazel eyes. If anyone sees Flummerfelt or his vehicle, please immediately call the Pratt Police Department at (620) 672-5551.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596298043207.png" alt="Jim&nbsp;Flummerfelt- photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Jim&nbsp;Flummerfelt- photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>GOVE COUNTY – The Pratt Police Department reported that 79-year-old James Flummerfelt, the subject of a statewide silver alert, was located by the Gove County Sheriff’s Office in Gove County. He was then taken to a local hospital for treatment.--------PRATT COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pratt Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Pratt man.The whereabouts of James “Jim” E. Flummerfelt, 79, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him, according to a media release from the KBI.Jim is a white male, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, with gray hair and hazel eyes. If anyone sees Flummerfelt or his vehicle, please immediately call the Pratt Police Department at (620) 672-5551.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled; missing Kan. man found safe

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Seven people, including an Alaska state lawmaker, died Friday when two small airplanes collided in midair near the airport in Soldotna, a small community on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.

Alaska State Troopers said state Rep. Gary Knopp, 67, of Kenai was the sole occupant of one plane. The other plane was flown by a local pilot, and carried a guide from Kansas and four people from South Carolina.

“This is an unfathomable tragedy for multiple families today,” Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner Amanda Price said. “Troopers and partner agencies have worked together diligently at the scene and have reached out to next of kin to notify them of this heartbreaking incident.”

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the fatal accident, which occurred just before 8:30 a.m.

Rita Geller, who works at a golf course near the airport, said she started running when she heard the planes hit, and watched one fall to the ground,

“I ran to more of a clearing and basically saw it explode,” she told the Anchorage Daily News. “The engine, things were flying off of it. I didn’t see the second plane, but I saw a lot of debris flying around. It was horrific. It was just like 9/11.”

Troopers say six of the seven people were pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. The seventh person died while being transported to a hospital.

Besides Knopp, troopers identified the other six people killed as pilot Gregory Bell, 57, of Soldotna; <a href="https://www.gobeyondthebend.com/?fbclid=IwAR147u_srG7VtR1WuCONERGJ6eKZTaGndLSKFEdV2Qxc1AAt0Z6rtfiVYv8">guide David Rogers, 40, </a>of Kansas; and Caleb Hulsey, 26; Heather Hulsey, 25; Mackay Hulsey, 24, and Kirstin Wright, 23, all of South Carolina.

Bell was one of the owners of High Adventure Air Charter in Soldotna, which offers bear viewing adventures, fishing and hunting trips and glacier tours, according to its website.

A person who answered the at the charter business Friday afternoon said the company had no comment.

“We live in a small, tight community here in the Central Peninsula. When I heard the horrific sounds of a plane crash this morning, which occurred very close to my home, I knew there was a high probability it involved someone we knew well,” state Sen. Peter Micciche said in a statement.

“I have known Gary Knopp and Greg Bell for most of my life. Gary has served the Kenai Peninsula community for decades. I have flown with Greg and never felt to be in better, more safety-focused hands while in the air. We are reeling from the loss to our community,” he said.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered U.S. and state flags to be lowered to half-staff and to remain in that position of honor for Knopp until sunset Monday.

“The first lady and I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Rep. Knopp’s family as they mourn his untimely passing,” Dunleavy said in a statement. “Throughout his 42 years on the Kenai Peninsula, Gary became well known as an avid outdoorsman, a skilled pilot, and a dedicated public servant. His presence will no doubt be missed by those he faithfully served.”

House Speaker Bryce Edgmon of Dillingham said he was shocked and devastated upon hearing of Knopp’s death. “Gary was a one-of-a-kind leader and a true Alaskan who worked tirelessly for his district in the Legislature. He will be missed by many.”

Senate President Cathy Giessel, a Republican from Anchorage, called it “a heart-breaking tragedy. More than a legislator, Gary Knopp was a husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend. He will be tremendously missed.”

The Federal Aviation Administration initially said the two planes involved were a single-engine de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver and a twin-engine Piper Aztec, However, the FAA later said it did not believe the second plane was a Piper Aztec, but it had not yet confirmed the make and model of the airplane involved.

The NTSB later tweeted the second plane was a Piper PA-12.

The two planes collided approximately 2 miles northeast of the Soldotna Airport, the FAA statement said after crash.

The FAA sent two investigators to the crash site, which is about 150 miles (241 kilometres) southwest of Anchorage.

Knopp, a Republican, left the House GOP caucus and served in a coalition of Democrats, independents and GOP lawmakers that comprised the House Majority. That left the remaining House Republicans in the minority.

Knopp faced two Republican challengers in the Aug. 18 primary. A message sent to the state Division of Elections to see if Knopp’s name would remain on the ballot was not immediately returned.

Knopp was first elected to the state House in 2016, and served for years before that on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly.

He was born in Whitefish, Montana, and moved to Alaska in 1979. He eventually settled in Kenai and worked as a general contractor.

His hobbies included flying , diving, hunting, golfing “and enjoying life in general at home on the Peninsula,” according to his legislative biography.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596282267021.png" alt="Crash scene photo by&nbsp;Angela Krenzien courtesy&nbsp;KTVA&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Crash scene photo by&nbsp;Angela Krenzien courtesy&nbsp;KTVA&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Seven people, including an Alaska state lawmaker, died Friday when two small airplanes collided in midair near the airport in Soldotna, a small community on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.Alaska State Troopers said state Rep. Gary Knopp, 67, of Kenai was the sole occupant of one plane. The other plane was flown by a local pilot, and carried a guide from Kansas and four people from South Carolina.“This is an unfathomable tragedy for multiple families today,” Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner Amanda Price said. “Troopers and partner agencies have worked together diligently at the scene and have reached out to next of kin to notify them of this heartbreaking incident.”The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the fatal accident, which occurred just before 8:30 a.m.Rita Geller, who works at a golf course near the airport, said she started running when she heard the planes hit, and watched one fall to the ground,“I ran to more of a clearing and basically saw it explode,” she told the Anchorage Daily News. “The engine, things were flying off of it. I didn’t see the second plane, but I saw a lot of debris flying around. It was horrific. It was just like 9/11.”Troopers say six of the seven people were pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. The seventh person died while being transported to a hospital.Besides Knopp, troopers identified the other six people killed as pilot Gregory Bell, 57, of Soldotna; <a href="https://www.gobeyondthebend.com/?fbclid=IwAR147u_srG7VtR1WuCONERGJ6eKZTaGndLSKFEdV2Qxc1AAt0Z6rtfiVYv8">guide David Rogers, 40, </a>of Kansas; and Caleb Hulsey, 26; Heather Hulsey, 25; Mackay Hulsey, 24, and Kirstin Wright, 23, all of South Carolina.Bell was one of the owners of High Adventure Air Charter in Soldotna, which offers bear viewing adventures, fishing and hunting trips and glacier tours, according to its website.A person who answered the at the charter business Friday afternoon said the company had no comment.“We live in a small, tight community here in the Central Peninsula. When I heard the horrific sounds of a plane crash this morning, which occurred very close to my home, I knew there was a high probability it involved someone we knew well,” state Sen. Peter Micciche said in a statement.“I have known Gary Knopp and Greg Bell for most of my life. Gary has served the Kenai Peninsula community for decades. I have flown with Greg and never felt to be in better, more safety-focused hands while in the air. We are reeling from the loss to our community,” he said.Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered U.S. and state flags to be lowered to half-staff and to remain in that position of honor for Knopp until sunset Monday.“The first lady and I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Rep. Knopp’s family as they mourn his untimely passing,” Dunleavy said in a statement. “Throughout his 42 years on the Kenai Peninsula, Gary became well known as an avid outdoorsman, a skilled pilot, and a dedicated public servant. His presence will no doubt be missed by those he faithfully served.”House Speaker Bryce Edgmon of Dillingham said he was shocked and devastated upon hearing of Knopp’s death. “Gary was a one-of-a-kind leader and a true Alaskan who worked tirelessly for his district in the Legislature. He will be missed by many.”Senate President Cathy Giessel, a Republican from Anchorage, called it “a heart-breaking tragedy. More than a legislator, Gary Knopp was a husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend. He will be tremendously missed.”The Federal Aviation Administration initially said the two planes involved were a single-engine de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver and a twin-engine Piper Aztec, However, the FAA later said it did not believe the second plane was a Piper Aztec, but it had not yet confirmed the make and model of the airplane involved.The NTSB later tweeted the second plane was a Piper PA-12.The two planes collided approximately 2 miles northeast of the Soldotna Airport, the FAA statement said after crash.The FAA sent two investigators to the crash site, which is about 150 miles (241 kilometres) southwest of Anchorage.Knopp, a Republican, left the House GOP caucus and served in a coalition of Democrats, independents and GOP lawmakers that comprised the House Majority. That left the remaining House Republicans in the minority.Knopp faced two Republican challengers in the Aug. 18 primary. A message sent to the state Division of Elections to see if Knopp’s name would remain on the ballot was not immediately returned.Knopp was first elected to the state House in 2016, and served for years before that on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly.He was born in Whitefish, Montana, and moved to Alaska in 1979. He eventually settled in Kenai and worked as a general contractor.His hobbies included flying , diving, hunting, golfing “and enjoying life in general at home on the Peninsula,” according to his legislative biography.

Midair collision kills 7 in Alaska including guide from Kansas

For a closer look at the contested races on the ballot for Tuesday's primary election, visit the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/election-2020">Hays Post Election 2020 page.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595618651933.jpeg" alt="File photo courtesy Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>File photo courtesy Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>For a closer look at the contested races on the ballot for Tuesday's primary election, visit the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/election-2020">Hays Post Election 2020 page.</a>

2020 primary election candidate profiles

Starting Monday, Ellis County plans to limit gatherings in the Unrein and Schenk buildings with the buildings closing to mass gathering completely by Sept. 1.

The policy will be reviewed for final approval by the Ellis County Commission at its meeting at 5 p.m. Monday at the county administration building.

The change is part of a policy to eliminate all indoor gatherings at county-owned property in attempts to curb the spread of COVID-19, Ellis County Administrator J.D. Cox said.

Both buildings at the Ellis County Fairgrounds are frequently used for wedding receptions and other events. Events are usually scheduled in the buildings year round.&nbsp;

Cox said county staff have already started to notify individuals who have booked the buildings about the cancellations. He said the phased approach was an attempt to give renters time to make alternate arrangements.

The chart below shows the phases for gatherings at the buildings with total closure happening after Aug. 31.

Cox said the proposed policy is in response to increasing COVID-19 numbers in the county with some cases being the result of contact at mass gatherings at county-owned facilities.&nbsp;

Also on the county&nbsp; agenda is a transfer of $300,000 from Hess Services for the Northwest Business Corridor project.

Hess received a workforce grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Dan Hess said he would commit this funding to Ellis County to help pay for the business corridor project.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostStarting Monday, Ellis County plans to limit gatherings in the Unrein and Schenk buildings with the buildings closing to mass gathering completely by Sept. 1.The policy will be reviewed for final approval by the Ellis County Commission at its meeting at 5 p.m. Monday at the county administration building.The change is part of a policy to eliminate all indoor gatherings at county-owned property in attempts to curb the spread of COVID-19, Ellis County Administrator J.D. Cox said.Both buildings at the Ellis County Fairgrounds are frequently used for wedding receptions and other events. Events are usually scheduled in the buildings year round.&nbsp;Cox said county staff have already started to notify individuals who have booked the buildings about the cancellations. He said the phased approach was an attempt to give renters time to make alternate arrangements.The chart below shows the phases for gatherings at the buildings with total closure happening after Aug. 31.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596209197390.png" alt="Unrein, Schenk buildings gathering limits" />
 <figcaption>Unrein, Schenk buildings gathering limits</figcaption>
 </figure>Cox said the proposed policy is in response to increasing COVID-19 numbers in the county with some cases being the result of contact at mass gatherings at county-owned facilities.&nbsp;Also on the county&nbsp; agenda is a transfer of $300,000 from Hess Services for the Northwest Business Corridor project.Hess received a workforce grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Dan Hess said he would commit this funding to Ellis County to help pay for the business corridor project.

Ellis Co. to consider ending mass gatherings in county buildings

COLBY — The Colby Community College men’s basketball team will host their annual golf tournament on Friday, Aug. 28, at Meadow Lake Golf Course. All proceeds will be used to support the program.

Registration for the four-person scramble will begin at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $280 per&nbsp;team&nbsp;and includes a chance to win a variety of hole prizes. Participants are asked to make&nbsp;cart&nbsp;arrangements.

Opportunities to be a hole sponsor are available. For more information, contact Coach Rusty Elmore at (270) 250-3137 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581529246979.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The Colby Community College men’s basketball team will host their annual golf tournament on Friday, Aug. 28, at Meadow Lake Golf Course. All proceeds will be used to support the program.Registration for the four-person scramble will begin at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $280 per&nbsp;team&nbsp;and includes a chance to win a variety of hole prizes. Participants are asked to make&nbsp;cart&nbsp;arrangements.Opportunities to be a hole sponsor are available. For more information, contact Coach Rusty Elmore at (270) 250-3137 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">rusty.elmore@colbycc.edu</a>.

Colby CC men’s basketball fundraiser will be Aug. 28

A small North American insect that can cause damage to your lawn. One way to tell if you have chinch bugs and not drought is if the grass does not green up after it has been watered.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b7thmStU45A"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A small North American insect that can cause damage to your lawn. One way to tell if you have chinch bugs and not drought is if the grass does not green up after it has been watered.

🎥 Green and Growing: Chinch bugs

While we may have our disagreements at times about how Kansas is run, I know that we also both want what we believe is best for our state. I have been following some of the changes that you have made to the Department of Commerce and have found many interesting and similar to areas that I have been advocating for in op-eds and social media.&nbsp;

I am writing this open letter with some more suggestions for how Kansas can improve our Department of Commerce in order to focus this agency on job creation and growth around our state. While there are many things that go into job growth, including a good tax environment, low electric rates, rural broadband and an educated workforce, Kansas needs a marketing department who can sell why businesses want to come here. Sadly, the state’s Department of Commerce has been lacking and many in our business community and our local governments have seen this.&nbsp;

First and foremost, we need to center the Department of Commerce on being an economic development department. No business could survive without a strong marketing department and the State of Kansas is the same. Unfortunately, the Department of Commerce has become a hodge podge of programs that have become of the focus.&nbsp;

We need to more workforce development out of the Department of Commerce and into the Department of Labor. Most states house workforce development in the labor department and employment department and it makes sense. Workforce development issues dovetail with the employment aspects of the Department of Labor.&nbsp;

Making this move would clear up the amount of time that Commerce Department leaders spend on workforce development and allow them to have a more laser like focus on economic development and marketing our state.&nbsp;

Next, we need to move tourism from the Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and place it back in the Commerce Department. If we are to make the Commerce Department a true marketing department for our state, then tourism needs to be in this agency. Tourism is a heavily marketing based agency and combining all of our state’s marketing and branding efforts together makes sense. This is why many states have economic development and tourism under one roof.&nbsp;

Tourism is more than just our parks and wildlife. It is our small businesses, our scenic rural communities, our state’s rich history, our artists, our college sports teams. Many existing Commerce Department programs, including for Kansas Main Streets, dovetail nicely with tourism. And tourism can still work closely with wildlife and parks.&nbsp;

The Commerce Department also needs a better system of interacting with our counties and cities. One of the most common themes I hear from local economic development officials is that business recruitment is better when the Commerce Department is not involved, because they do not understand local priorities. This can be addressed by creating a system of regional councils – with public and private sector voices - to advise the commerce secretary on these issues.&nbsp;

Kansas is in a trying time and economic recovery is the paramount goal of every business leader and public official. There are many ways this can be addressed, but we need a focused agency on our economy and recovery, not just in the short term but in the long term as well. I am more than willing to talk with you more on this subject.&nbsp;

Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576860566850.jpeg" alt="Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By WINK HARTMANDear Governor Kelly,While we may have our disagreements at times about how Kansas is run, I know that we also both want what we believe is best for our state. I have been following some of the changes that you have made to the Department of Commerce and have found many interesting and similar to areas that I have been advocating for in op-eds and social media.&nbsp;I am writing this open letter with some more suggestions for how Kansas can improve our Department of Commerce in order to focus this agency on job creation and growth around our state. While there are many things that go into job growth, including a good tax environment, low electric rates, rural broadband and an educated workforce, Kansas needs a marketing department who can sell why businesses want to come here. Sadly, the state’s Department of Commerce has been lacking and many in our business community and our local governments have seen this.&nbsp;First and foremost, we need to center the Department of Commerce on being an economic development department. No business could survive without a strong marketing department and the State of Kansas is the same. Unfortunately, the Department of Commerce has become a hodge podge of programs that have become of the focus.&nbsp;We need to more workforce development out of the Department of Commerce and into the Department of Labor. Most states house workforce development in the labor department and employment department and it makes sense. Workforce development issues dovetail with the employment aspects of the Department of Labor.&nbsp;Making this move would clear up the amount of time that Commerce Department leaders spend on workforce development and allow them to have a more laser like focus on economic development and marketing our state.&nbsp;Next, we need to move tourism from the Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and place it back in the Commerce Department. If we are to make the Commerce Department a true marketing department for our state, then tourism needs to be in this agency. Tourism is a heavily marketing based agency and combining all of our state’s marketing and branding efforts together makes sense. This is why many states have economic development and tourism under one roof.&nbsp;Tourism is more than just our parks and wildlife. It is our small businesses, our scenic rural communities, our state’s rich history, our artists, our college sports teams. Many existing Commerce Department programs, including for Kansas Main Streets, dovetail nicely with tourism. And tourism can still work closely with wildlife and parks.&nbsp;The Commerce Department also needs a better system of interacting with our counties and cities. One of the most common themes I hear from local economic development officials is that business recruitment is better when the Commerce Department is not involved, because they do not understand local priorities. This can be addressed by creating a system of regional councils – with public and private sector voices - to advise the commerce secretary on these issues.&nbsp;Kansas is in a trying time and economic recovery is the paramount goal of every business leader and public official. There are many ways this can be addressed, but we need a focused agency on our economy and recovery, not just in the short term but in the long term as well. I am more than willing to talk with you more on this subject.&nbsp;Wink Hartman is the CEO of the Hartman Group of Companies in Wichita and the 2018 Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.&nbsp;

HARTMAN: Focus needs to be on job creation, growth

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Axelson, Miles Axelson, 30, Natoma, was southbound on Norton County Road E12 just south of Kansas 9 highway.

The van crossed the center line and struck a 1992 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Victor Saenz Galindo, 51, Amarillo, Texas head-on.&nbsp;

EMS transported Axelson to Wesley Medical Center. Galindo was not injured. Both driver were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Axelson, Miles Axelson, 30, Natoma, was southbound on Norton County Road E12 just south of Kansas 9 highway.The van crossed the center line and struck a 1992 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Victor Saenz Galindo, 51, Amarillo, Texas head-on.&nbsp;EMS transported Axelson to Wesley Medical Center. Galindo was not injured. Both driver were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man from Natoma hospitalized after head-on crash

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced four new positive cases of COVID-19 in the county since Wednesday.

There are currently 27 active cases, including one active hospitalization, and 103 recovered cases.

Since reporting began, there have been 131 total cases in Ellis County, including one death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced four new positive cases of COVID-19 in the county since Wednesday.There are currently 27 active cases, including one active hospitalization, and 103 recovered cases.Since reporting began, there have been 131 total cases in Ellis County, including one death.

Four new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis Co.

SCOTT CITY, Kan. (AP) — A western Kansas mayor who had not been wearing a mask says he has tested positive for COVID-19. Scott City Mayor Everett Green says he may have caught the virus at a political event for a state senator on July 18.

Green said on Facebook that he tested positive earlier this week. He had what he thought were seasonal allergies for a few weeks but got tested after losing his senses of smell and taste over the weekend. 

Green says it's likely he'll wear a mask after he finishes a 14-day quarantine at home. Scott City is about 36 miles north of Garden City.

SCOTT CITY, Kan. (AP) — A western Kansas mayor who had not been wearing a mask says he has tested positive for COVID-19. Scott City Mayor Everett Green says he may have caught the virus at a political event for a state senator on July 18.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F110422803709390%2Fvideos%2F621327502095022%2F&show_text=0&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Green said on Facebook that he tested positive earlier this week. He had what he thought were seasonal allergies for a few weeks but got tested after losing his senses of smell and taste over the weekend. Green says it's likely he'll wear a mask after he finishes a 14-day quarantine at home. Scott City is about 36 miles north of Garden City.

Western Kan. mayor who declined masks tests positive for virus

It was a wet month for Hays with the city receiving more than 7 inches of rain in July.

The Eagle Media Center received another 0.38 inches of rain between 6 a.m. Thursday and Friday morning.&nbsp;

Official totals were not immediately available from the K-State Ag Research Center.&nbsp;

As of Thursday morning, the Research Center reported that the city had received&nbsp;&nbsp;6.97 inches of rain compared to an average of 3.33 inches for the month July.

Year-to-date moisture recorded at the Research Center as of Thursday morning was 16.62 inches compared to an average moisture of 14.68 inches by the end of July.

The National Weather Service forecasts 20 percent chance of thunderstorms for Hays on Saturday and Sunday nights with otherwise clear skies through Tuesday.

Highs are forecast for the mid-80s Friday and Saturday and the upper 70s Sunday through Tuesday.&nbsp;

Long-term forecasts predict rain chances from 20 percent to 40 percent Tuesday night through Thursday.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIt was a wet month for Hays with the city receiving more than 7 inches of rain in July.The Eagle Media Center received another 0.38 inches of rain between 6 a.m. Thursday and Friday morning.&nbsp;Official totals were not immediately available from the K-State Ag Research Center.&nbsp;As of Thursday morning, the Research Center reported that the city had received&nbsp;&nbsp;6.97 inches of rain compared to an average of 3.33 inches for the month July.Year-to-date moisture recorded at the Research Center as of Thursday morning was 16.62 inches compared to an average moisture of 14.68 inches by the end of July.The National Weather Service forecasts 20 percent chance of thunderstorms for Hays on Saturday and Sunday nights with otherwise clear skies through Tuesday.Highs are forecast for the mid-80s Friday and Saturday and the upper 70s Sunday through Tuesday.&nbsp;Long-term forecasts predict rain chances from 20 percent to 40 percent Tuesday night through Thursday.

Local