Dear FHSU students, staff and faculty: The past 100 days have brought to light the current climate based on systematic and institutional discrimination. The hate, dissension, and violence experienced by Blacks/African Americans leaves people wondering when will the change shift to antiracist views and practices. Being able to reimagine a world where racism is no longer a concern, is a dream many have.&nbsp; People of color have been reimagining their lives, too. Reimagining an America without institutionalized racism has been the condition for Blacks/African Americans for hundreds of years. The recent death of Mr. George Floyd reminds the marginalized students, faculty, and staff of our community that the fundamental injustice of institutionalized racism has not changed.&nbsp; Change. Change is necessary to breakdown the injustices of the American Dream. For many, that dream has been destroyed by the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. &nbsp;By the harassment of Travis Miller while working as a delivery driver. And by the shameful confrontation experienced by Christian Cooper, while bird watching in New York City’s Central Park.&nbsp; So, what are&nbsp;you&nbsp;doing to confront institutional racism and rebuild a system that is anti-racist? What you are doing to make a difference?&nbsp; You are not expected to make a difference alone. Our university’s leadership acknowledges that “we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong” necessitates that we dedicate ourselves to do the work that prompts the change. Those with the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion in their titles&nbsp;must&nbsp;have your help to breakdown institutional racism.&nbsp; Become an accomplice for change. &nbsp;An accomplice takes action against injustices. Acknowledge and embrace that change must take place and then ask&nbsp;how you can help.We can start right here on our campus. You can start in the community where you live and help your neighbors navigate these troubling times. Reach out. Talk to others. Be kind. For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed and need support, talk with a trusted colleague, faculty/staff, friend, or family member. &nbsp;And know I am here for you, too, as are the professional counselors at the Kelly Center.&nbsp; This call for change is not an indictment of law enforcement. We recognize there are racist views in all professions, that is the very definition of institutionalized racism. &nbsp;We are grateful to those who protect and serve our communities. And for those who are advocates, allies, and accomplices for anti-racism, thank you, too.&nbsp; What now? Acknowledge the need to address institutional racism. Engage in meaningful conversations with others about discrimination. Get involved with diversity and equity programs and commit to continued education. Bring microaggression training to your classroom. Have staff participate in Safe Zone training. Attend the Tunnel of Oppression. Join in Novels for Hope. To move forward and create change, we must work in concert so the thread of diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into the fabric of the university by everyone who teaches, leads, advises, encourages, and interacts with every student, alum, faculty, and staff.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Dr. Teresa L. Clounch&nbsp; Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs | Senior Diversity Officer | Title IX Coordinator | NASPA IV-West Regional Director (2020-2022)&nbsp; Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591558659046.jpeg" alt="Teresa Clounch" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Clounch</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear FHSU students, staff and faculty: The past 100 days have brought to light the current climate based on systematic and institutional discrimination. The hate, dissension, and violence experienced by Blacks/African Americans leaves people wondering when will the change shift to antiracist views and practices. Being able to reimagine a world where racism is no longer a concern, is a dream many have.&nbsp; People of color have been reimagining their lives, too. Reimagining an America without institutionalized racism has been the condition for Blacks/African Americans for hundreds of years. The recent death of Mr. George Floyd reminds the marginalized students, faculty, and staff of our community that the fundamental injustice of institutionalized racism has not changed.&nbsp; Change. Change is necessary to breakdown the injustices of the American Dream. For many, that dream has been destroyed by the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. &nbsp;By the harassment of Travis Miller while working as a delivery driver. And by the shameful confrontation experienced by Christian Cooper, while bird watching in New York City’s Central Park.&nbsp; So, what are&nbsp;you&nbsp;doing to confront institutional racism and rebuild a system that is anti-racist? What you are doing to make a difference?&nbsp; You are not expected to make a difference alone. Our university’s leadership acknowledges that “we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong” necessitates that we dedicate ourselves to do the work that prompts the change. Those with the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion in their titles&nbsp;must&nbsp;have your help to breakdown institutional racism.&nbsp; Become an accomplice for change. &nbsp;An accomplice takes action against injustices. Acknowledge and embrace that change must take place and then ask&nbsp;how you can help.We can start right here on our campus. You can start in the community where you live and help your neighbors navigate these troubling times. Reach out. Talk to others. Be kind. For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed and need support, talk with a trusted colleague, faculty/staff, friend, or family member. &nbsp;And know I am here for you, too, as are the professional counselors at the Kelly Center.&nbsp; This call for change is not an indictment of law enforcement. We recognize there are racist views in all professions, that is the very definition of institutionalized racism. &nbsp;We are grateful to those who protect and serve our communities. And for those who are advocates, allies, and accomplices for anti-racism, thank you, too.&nbsp; What now? Acknowledge the need to address institutional racism. Engage in meaningful conversations with others about discrimination. Get involved with diversity and equity programs and commit to continued education. Bring microaggression training to your classroom. Have staff participate in Safe Zone training. Attend the Tunnel of Oppression. Join in Novels for Hope. To move forward and create change, we must work in concert so the thread of diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into the fabric of the university by everyone who teaches, leads, advises, encourages, and interacts with every student, alum, faculty, and staff.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Dr. Teresa L. Clounch&nbsp; Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs | Senior Diversity Officer | Title IX Coordinator | NASPA IV-West Regional Director (2020-2022)&nbsp; Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

FHSU diversity officer: Our role in the world moving forward

By ALICIA BOOR K-State Research &amp; Extension

Some exciting news was announced to K-State Research and Extension last week! K-State Athletics will host our first “Celebrate Agriculture Day” with K-State Football this fall. While we have always known how important farming and agriculture are to everyone, the past couple of months have highlighted this to the world. Our history as Kansas State Agriculture College is something we recognize and celebrate. 
 
Our designated “Celebrate Agriculture” game is November 7 against Texas Tech, and we are excited to&nbsp;honor one Willie’s Farm Family from each county!

To help us at Extension decide who we will send from our counties, we need your help! We are asking for nominations of a family who farms that you feel deserves to be highlighted on November 7th. To enter a deserving family’s name, submit a short summary of 350 words or less on why you feel that they should win. Nominations are due to our offices by June 23rd with the announcement of the winners on June 30th. For a Barton County nomination, either send your submission in by mail to 1800 12th street in Great Bend or email Brenda at <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> For an Ellis County nomination, mail it to 601 Main Street in Hays or email to Theresa a <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

The selected farm family from each county will receive two complimentary tickets to the game with the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets and be recognized with all county representatives during the game. The nominated family will receive more information on this program in a follow-up email in July.

Farming and the families that support agriculture are integral to everyone’s life. Please help us at KSRE and KSU honor a family from our community and show football fans why farmers are the best!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591218629362.jpeg" alt="Courtesy&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR K-State Research &amp; ExtensionSome exciting news was announced to K-State Research and Extension last week! K-State Athletics will host our first “Celebrate Agriculture Day” with K-State Football this fall. While we have always known how important farming and agriculture are to everyone, the past couple of months have highlighted this to the world. Our history as Kansas State Agriculture College is something we recognize and celebrate. 
 
Our designated “Celebrate Agriculture” game is November 7 against Texas Tech, and we are excited to&nbsp;honor one Willie’s Farm Family from each county!To help us at Extension decide who we will send from our counties, we need your help! We are asking for nominations of a family who farms that you feel deserves to be highlighted on November 7th. To enter a deserving family’s name, submit a short summary of 350 words or less on why you feel that they should win. Nominations are due to our offices by June 23rd with the announcement of the winners on June 30th. For a Barton County nomination, either send your submission in by mail to 1800 12th street in Great Bend or email Brenda at <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> For an Ellis County nomination, mail it to 601 Main Street in Hays or email to Theresa a <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;The selected farm family from each county will receive two complimentary tickets to the game with the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets and be recognized with all county representatives during the game. The nominated family will receive more information on this program in a follow-up email in July.Farming and the families that support agriculture are integral to everyone’s life. Please help us at KSRE and KSU honor a family from our community and show football fans why farmers are the best!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Celebrate agriculture with K-State football

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QUIZ: How well do you know Hays?

Three-day weather outlook

ANDOVER —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">NetWork Kansas</a> launched an impactful initiative to support the immediate needs of local businesses due to the COVID-19 crisis. Restart Kansas will provide low interest loans up to $20,000 to businesses located in participating counties seeking emergency assistance to maintain or restart their business due to a disaster. These loans will have terms of two percent interest for 48 months with four months of deferred payments.

“The last few months have illustrated the need for local cities and counties to think outside-the-box and create new resources to assist their small businesses,” said Erik Pedersen, NetWork Kansas vice president of entrepreneurship. “Administering the HIRE (Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency) Fund for the state was important but we wanted to continue and seek the help of our partners to do more. We are very thankful for the long-standing relationship with Western Kansas.” 

Nearly $1.5 million has been raised across the state by utilizing the existing Entrepreneurship Tax Credit, which provides donors a 75% state tax credit up to $100,000 in credits. Because a key component of this fund is to keep the dollars local, sixty percent of all donations utilizing the tax credit will be dedicated to the participating county. Additional funds may also be raised through charitable donations. Thanks to recent legislation, banks and savings and loans can now utilize the tax credit. 

Western Kansas has many progressive banks, businesses and individuals. Together the below listed have contributed $430,000 resulting in $258,000 Restart Kansas funds designated specifically for western Kansas. 

 Farmers Bank &amp; Trust- Great Bend, KS 

 Farmers &amp; Merchants Bank of Colby- Colby, KS 

First National Bank &amp; Trust- Phillipsburg, KS 

Woofter Construction and Irrigation- Colby Kansas 

As an entrepreneurial and philanthropic business, Woofter Construction and Irrigation president, Chris Koerperich stated, “Learning of the opportunity to reinvest locally and benefit our fellow businesses made this a very easy decision.”  Shan Hanes, president of Heartland Tri-State Bank states, “This is a great opportunity to help businesses re-open quickly while assuring the funds donated stay within your local community.”  

Joann Knight, board president of the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (wKREDA) speaks deeper into what this means for Western Kansas specifically; “Assisting our local businesses is critical at this time, and Restart Kansas gives you the opportunity to show your support. By investing in tax credits, you help give back to Western Kansas small businesses.”  

To support as many businesses as possible throughout the state, it is important for local counties, communities, banks and other donors to come together to fully utilize the Entrepreneurship Tax Credit. If you want to join the list of progressive and influential banks, businesses and individuals and participate in this tax credit program you can call 877.526.8600 and ask for Steve Radley or Erik Pedersen to make a commitment or to learn more.  

Restart Kansas loan applicants must reside in one of the participating counties, complete a Restart Kansas application, receive approval by the local leadership team, complete all necessary paperwork and provide supporting documentation. NetWork Kansas currently works with more than 40 administrative support organizations, and 64 Entrepreneurship (E-) Communities throughout the state. 

NetWork Kansas was established as a component of the Kansas Economic Growth Act of 2004 to further entrepreneurship and small business growth as a priority for economic and community development in the state of Kansas. Backed by more than 500 partners statewide, the NetWork Kansas service promotes an entrepreneurial environment by connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with the expertise, education and economic resources they need in order to succeed.  

NetWork Kansas facilitates the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem within participating communities through the E-Community Partnership. Contributing factors to successful development include availability of financial capital, support by local leadership and development of educational resources. All of these factors combine to increase entrepreneurial activity in participating towns, leading to increased startup activity, business expansion, job creation and more.  

For more information about the Entrepreneurship (E-) Community Partnership, visit <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities">www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities</a>, or call 877.521.8600.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591375122611.png" alt="NetWork Kansas E-communities" />
 <figcaption>NetWork Kansas E-communities</figcaption>
 </figure>ANDOVER —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">NetWork Kansas</a> launched an impactful initiative to support the immediate needs of local businesses due to the COVID-19 crisis. Restart Kansas will provide low interest loans up to $20,000 to businesses located in participating counties seeking emergency assistance to maintain or restart their business due to a disaster. These loans will have terms of two percent interest for 48 months with four months of deferred payments. “The last few months have illustrated the need for local cities and counties to think outside-the-box and create new resources to assist their small businesses,” said Erik Pedersen, NetWork Kansas vice president of entrepreneurship. “Administering the HIRE (Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency) Fund for the state was important but we wanted to continue and seek the help of our partners to do more. We are very thankful for the long-standing relationship with Western Kansas.” Nearly $1.5 million has been raised across the state by utilizing the existing Entrepreneurship Tax Credit, which provides donors a 75% state tax credit up to $100,000 in credits. Because a key component of this fund is to keep the dollars local, sixty percent of all donations utilizing the tax credit will be dedicated to the participating county. Additional funds may also be raised through charitable donations. Thanks to recent legislation, banks and savings and loans can now utilize the tax credit. Western Kansas has many progressive banks, businesses and individuals. Together the below listed have contributed $430,000 resulting in $258,000 Restart Kansas funds designated specifically for western Kansas. Adams Bank &amp; Trust- Colby, KS Bank of Hays- Hays, KS Heartland Tri-State Bank- Elkhart, KS Farmers Bank &amp; Trust- Great Bend, KS Farmers &amp; Merchants Bank of Colby- Colby, KS First National Bank &amp; Trust- Phillipsburg, KS Woofter Construction and Irrigation- Colby Kansas As an entrepreneurial and philanthropic business, Woofter Construction and Irrigation president, Chris Koerperich stated, “Learning of the opportunity to reinvest locally and benefit our fellow businesses made this a very easy decision.” Shan Hanes, president of Heartland Tri-State Bank states, “This is a great opportunity to help businesses re-open quickly while assuring the funds donated stay within your local community.” Joann Knight, board president of the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (wKREDA) speaks deeper into what this means for Western Kansas specifically; “Assisting our local businesses is critical at this time, and Restart Kansas gives you the opportunity to show your support. By investing in tax credits, you help give back to Western Kansas small businesses.” To support as many businesses as possible throughout the state, it is important for local counties, communities, banks and other donors to come together to fully utilize the Entrepreneurship Tax Credit. If you want to join the list of progressive and influential banks, businesses and individuals and participate in this tax credit program you can call 877.526.8600 and ask for Steve Radley or Erik Pedersen to make a commitment or to learn more. Restart Kansas loan applicants must reside in one of the participating counties, complete a Restart Kansas application, receive approval by the local leadership team, complete all necessary paperwork and provide supporting documentation. NetWork Kansas currently works with more than 40 administrative support organizations, and 64 Entrepreneurship (E-) Communities throughout the state. About NetWork Kansas: NetWork Kansas was established as a component of the Kansas Economic Growth Act of 2004 to further entrepreneurship and small business growth as a priority for economic and community development in the state of Kansas. Backed by more than 500 partners statewide, the NetWork Kansas service promotes an entrepreneurial environment by connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with the expertise, education and economic resources they need in order to succeed. NetWork Kansas facilitates the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem within participating communities through the E-Community Partnership. Contributing factors to successful development include availability of financial capital, support by local leadership and development of educational resources. All of these factors combine to increase entrepreneurial activity in participating towns, leading to increased startup activity, business expansion, job creation and more. For more information about the Entrepreneurship (E-) Community Partnership, visit <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities">www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities</a>, or call 877.521.8600. News release

NetWork Kansas brings Restart Kansas loans to area businesses

RUSSELL COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Sunday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Harley Davidson driven by Terry L. Millett, 62, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Balta Road.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the motorcycle when it blew a tire and entered the median.

EMS transported&nbsp;Millett and a passenger Reatha Colleen&nbsp;McGraw-Millett, 62, Salina, to the hospital in Russell.

The were both wearing helmets and eye protection, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Sunday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Harley Davidson driven by Terry L. Millett, 62, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Balta Road.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the motorcycle when it blew a tire and entered the median.EMS transported&nbsp;Millett and a passenger Reatha Colleen&nbsp;McGraw-Millett, 62, Salina, to the hospital in Russell.The were both wearing helmets and eye protection, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after motorcycle blows tire on I-70

🎤Post Podcast: Ellis County misses out on CBDG COVID grants

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Dennis and&nbsp; Margarita Schleder don't sell ice cream, they sell smiles.&nbsp;

The Catharine couple have brought back the ice cream truck to Hays and surrounding communities.

The sing-song music of the ice cream truck brings kids running or pedaling bikes, just as they did when Margarita was a kid growing up in San Antonio.

"So many little kids have not seen it unless it is on a cartoon," Dennis said. "Of course, a lot of the adults haven't seen one in 30 years. I think some of the adults are more excited than the kids. It brings back memories, they say."

"Chasing [the ice cream truck] down, that was one of my favorite things," Margarita said. "It is exciting to have your little change and listen for the ice cream truck and, if you don't see it, you have to chase it down.

"With all my brothers and sisters, we would be running after it."

Margarita said she enjoys seeing the smiles on children's faces.

"It's so cute," she said. "You see them all excited, dancing and excited about their ice cream. Then you see all the older people excited too since they haven't seen one since they were small."

Mijom's carries some classic ice cream treats, including Bomb Pops, Drumsticks and ice cream sandwiches, as well as treats with a new twists such as&nbsp; Ninja Turtles, Mickey Mouse or Minions-themed desserts.

The Schleders said they are trying to keep their prices low — $1.50 to $2.75 per treat — despite urgings from their distributors to charge higher prices.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Schleders dreamed of owning an ice cream truck, but thought they would take on the project in their retirement. Margarita, who had worked in family services in San Antonio, was having difficulty finding work, a situation made worse by the COVID-19 outbreak.

"After six years of being home with the babies," she said, "I wanted to go out and find something to do."

Dennis' work in insulation has also been slow since the outbreak.

"We asked ourselves, 'Why wait? Why not now?' " Dennis said.

The couple dubbed the ice cream truck Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress after Margarita's children's nickname for their mother. She said the kids — 4, 5 and 10 — were excited about their parents' project and now call themselves the "ice cream kids."

Margarita said she thinks the communities have been appreciative of their business. She said she wanted to thank customers for their support. In this time of COVID-19, she said the ice cream truck is a positive.

"Ice cream makes everything better," she said.

The couple originally intended to keep the truck in Hays. It takes the couple about three days to hit all the neighborhoods in the city. However, the truck has been so popular, they have branched out to surrounding communities, including Ransom, Ness City and Ellis.&nbsp;They have also visited some area lakes including Webster and Cedar Bluffs.

"With the coronavirus, everybody has been stuck at home. We figured we wanted to bring cheer to everybody, not just Hays," Margarita said. "We try to spread ourselves to give a little bit of cheer here and a little bit of cheer there. We believe everyone deserves to be a little bit happy in these times when all this bad stuff is happening."

The couple is considering adding a second truck next summer with one truck focusing on Hays and another on the surrounding communities.

They also plan to have the truck at some local events, including the Ellis County Fair and the Bunker Hill Mud Run.

You can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mijoms-Ice-Cream-Xpress-105904364471059/">Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress</a> on Facebook. They regularly post on social media where the truck will be in coming days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591384187763.jpeg" alt="Margarita Schleder, co-owner of Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress, with her children Marshall, 4, Charlotte, 5, and Dalton, 10. The children call themselves the "ice cream kids."" />
 <figcaption>Margarita Schleder, co-owner of Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress, with her children Marshall, 4, Charlotte, 5, and Dalton, 10. The children call themselves the "ice cream kids."</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDennis and&nbsp; Margarita Schleder don't sell ice cream, they sell smiles.&nbsp;The Catharine couple have brought back the ice cream truck to Hays and surrounding communities.The sing-song music of the ice cream truck brings kids running or pedaling bikes, just as they did when Margarita was a kid growing up in San Antonio."So many little kids have not seen it unless it is on a cartoon," Dennis said. "Of course, a lot of the adults haven't seen one in 30 years. I think some of the adults are more excited than the kids. It brings back memories, they say."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591386907957.jpeg" alt="Children gather around Mijom Ice Cream Xpress. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Children gather around Mijom Ice Cream Xpress. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"Chasing [the ice cream truck] down, that was one of my favorite things," Margarita said. "It is exciting to have your little change and listen for the ice cream truck and, if you don't see it, you have to chase it down."With all my brothers and sisters, we would be running after it."Margarita said she enjoys seeing the smiles on children's faces."It's so cute," she said. "You see them all excited, dancing and excited about their ice cream. Then you see all the older people excited too since they haven't seen one since they were small."Mijom's carries some classic ice cream treats, including Bomb Pops, Drumsticks and ice cream sandwiches, as well as treats with a new twists such as&nbsp; Ninja Turtles, Mickey Mouse or Minions-themed desserts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591387008361.jpeg" alt="Young and old have enjoyed buying treats from the new Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress truck, which is run by the Schleders of Catherine. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Young and old have enjoyed buying treats from the new Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress truck, which is run by the Schleders of Catherine. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Schleders said they are trying to keep their prices low — $1.50 to $2.75 per treat — despite urgings from their distributors to charge higher prices.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Schleders dreamed of owning an ice cream truck, but thought they would take on the project in their retirement. Margarita, who had worked in family services in San Antonio, was having difficulty finding work, a situation made worse by the COVID-19 outbreak."After six years of being home with the babies," she said, "I wanted to go out and find something to do."Dennis' work in insulation has also been slow since the outbreak."We asked ourselves, 'Why wait? Why not now?' " Dennis said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591387071786.jpeg" alt="The Mijom ice cream truck plays 37 songs to attract ice cream lovers of all ages. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Mijom ice cream truck plays 37 songs to attract ice cream lovers of all ages. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The couple dubbed the ice cream truck Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress after Margarita's children's nickname for their mother. She said the kids — 4, 5 and 10 — were excited about their parents' project and now call themselves the "ice cream kids."Margarita said she thinks the communities have been appreciative of their business. She said she wanted to thank customers for their support. In this time of COVID-19, she said the ice cream truck is a positive."Ice cream makes everything better," she said.The couple originally intended to keep the truck in Hays. It takes the couple about three days to hit all the neighborhoods in the city. However, the truck has been so popular, they have branched out to surrounding communities, including Ransom, Ness City and Ellis.&nbsp;They have also visited some area lakes including Webster and Cedar Bluffs."With the coronavirus, everybody has been stuck at home. We figured we wanted to bring cheer to everybody, not just Hays," Margarita said. "We try to spread ourselves to give a little bit of cheer here and a little bit of cheer there. We believe everyone deserves to be a little bit happy in these times when all this bad stuff is happening."The couple is considering adding a second truck next summer with one truck focusing on Hays and another on the surrounding communities.They also plan to have the truck at some local events, including the Ellis County Fair and the Bunker Hill Mud Run.You can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mijoms-Ice-Cream-Xpress-105904364471059/">Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress</a> on Facebook. They regularly post on social media where the truck will be in coming days.

Catharine couple not just peddling ice cream, they're sellin' smiles

The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance has partnered with Hays Post to bring you Encouraging Words, a series of messages from Ellis County faith leaders.

Check Hays Post on Wednesdays and Sundays for the latest Encouraging Words.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xqvhAM9Fej8"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance has partnered with Hays Post to bring you Encouraging Words, a series of messages from Ellis County faith leaders.Check Hays Post on Wednesdays and Sundays for the latest Encouraging Words.

🎥 Encouraging Words: Brenda Rodger, Trinity Lutheran Church

HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System,&nbsp; is among 115 hospitals statewide being recognized for its exemplary achievements to improve patient safety.

The Kansas Healthcare Collaborative recognized Kansas hospitals recently at the conclusion of the AHA/HRET Network-a major patient safety initiative spearheaded by the American Hospital Association/Health Research &amp; Educational Trust and coordinated in Kansas by KHC.

HaysMed received the Highest Achievement with Distinction recognition for working toward AHA/HRET Network goals set by the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services to reduce hospital-acquired conditions and preventable readmissions.&nbsp; This designation utilizes a data-driven approach to identify up to 14 "Highest Achievement" hospitals that demonstrated distinction through their improvement efforts and engagement throughout the initiative

"We are pleased to receive this special recognition of our team's patient-focused efforts to provide the best care possible to those we serve," said Eddie Herrman, president and CEO of HaysMed.&nbsp; "Working with the Kansas Healthcare Collaborative and its partners-as well as side-by-side with our peers across the state and with national experts-has provided our team the opportunity to advance patient safety and health outcomes more efficiently and effectively."

Since October 2016, more than 115 Kansas hospitals have worked collaboratively with KHC to achieve a 20 percent reduction in hospital-acquired conditions and a 12 percent reduction in 30-day hospital readmissions from 2014 baselines. Participating hospitals placed special focus on reducing patient harm, such as falls, adverse drug events, hospital-acquired infections, and pressure injuries. Hospitals also made progress in implementing key strategies for promoting health equity and patient and family engagement.

Hospitals across the state and nation have been working since 2010 to achieve national patient safety goals established by federal agencies. Nationwide, between 2010 and 2015, an estimated 125,000 fewer patients died in a hospital and approximately $22.8 billion in health care costs were saved as a result in reductions in hospital-acquired conditions, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

"We extend our congratulations and gratitude to all the hospitals across Kansas who participated in the AHA/HRET Network," said KHC Executive Director Allison Peterson DeGroff. "For several years, this community of collaborative peers has inspired and driven each other to excel in leading data-driven quality improvement. It is challenging work — and it is critical work. Each hospital's incremental changes lead to an exponential impact on the lives of patients and their families."

The AHA/HRET Network included more than 1,600 hospitals across 34 states and U.S.&nbsp; territories.

More information available at <a href="http://www.khconline.org/HIIN">www .khconline.org/ HIIN.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591378270895.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System,&nbsp; is among 115 hospitals statewide being recognized for its exemplary achievements to improve patient safety.The Kansas Healthcare Collaborative recognized Kansas hospitals recently at the conclusion of the AHA/HRET Network-a major patient safety initiative spearheaded by the American Hospital Association/Health Research &amp; Educational Trust and coordinated in Kansas by KHC.HaysMed received the Highest Achievement with Distinction recognition for working toward AHA/HRET Network goals set by the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services to reduce hospital-acquired conditions and preventable readmissions.&nbsp; This designation utilizes a data-driven approach to identify up to 14 "Highest Achievement" hospitals that demonstrated distinction through their improvement efforts and engagement throughout the initiative"We are pleased to receive this special recognition of our team's patient-focused efforts to provide the best care possible to those we serve," said Eddie Herrman, president and CEO of HaysMed.&nbsp; "Working with the Kansas Healthcare Collaborative and its partners-as well as side-by-side with our peers across the state and with national experts-has provided our team the opportunity to advance patient safety and health outcomes more efficiently and effectively."Since October 2016, more than 115 Kansas hospitals have worked collaboratively with KHC to achieve a 20 percent reduction in hospital-acquired conditions and a 12 percent reduction in 30-day hospital readmissions from 2014 baselines. Participating hospitals placed special focus on reducing patient harm, such as falls, adverse drug events, hospital-acquired infections, and pressure injuries. Hospitals also made progress in implementing key strategies for promoting health equity and patient and family engagement.Hospitals across the state and nation have been working since 2010 to achieve national patient safety goals established by federal agencies. Nationwide, between 2010 and 2015, an estimated 125,000 fewer patients died in a hospital and approximately $22.8 billion in health care costs were saved as a result in reductions in hospital-acquired conditions, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality."We extend our congratulations and gratitude to all the hospitals across Kansas who participated in the AHA/HRET Network," said KHC Executive Director Allison Peterson DeGroff. "For several years, this community of collaborative peers has inspired and driven each other to excel in leading data-driven quality improvement. It is challenging work — and it is critical work. Each hospital's incremental changes lead to an exponential impact on the lives of patients and their families."The AHA/HRET Network included more than 1,600 hospitals across 34 states and U.S.&nbsp; territories.More information available at <a href="http://www.khconline.org/HIIN">www .khconline.org/ HIIN.</a>

HaysMed recognized for patient safety achievements

For those of you that have been waiting patiently by reading another book or counting your stockpile of toilet paper, or for some…impatiently; it is time to look for bagworms. Although the cool weather we have experienced this spring will slow development, and consequently larvae hatching from eggs, bagworm caterpillars will eventually be present throughout Kansas feeding on broadleaf and evergreen trees and shrubs. 

Therefore, be prepared to act against bagworms once they are observed on plants. Bagworms are primarily a pest of conifers; however, they feed on a wide-range of host plants including a number of broadleaf plants, such as; rose, honey locust, hackberry, and flowering plum. It is important to apply insecticides when bagworms are less than 1/4 inch long to maximize effectiveness of insecticide applications and subsequently reduce plant damage.

Several insecticides are labeled for use against bagworms including those with the following active ingredients: acephate, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, cyfluthrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, trichlorfon, indoxacarb, chlorantraniliprole, and spinosad. Most of these active ingredients are commercially available and sold under various trade names or as generic products. However, several insecticides may not be directly available to homeowners.

The key to managing bagworms with insecticides at this time of year is to apply insecticides early and frequently enough to kill the highly susceptible young caterpillars feeding on plant foliage.

Applying insecticides weekly for four to five weeks when bagworms are first noticed will reduce problems with bagworms later in the year. The bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, which is sold under various trade names, is only active on young caterpillars and must be consumed or ingested to be effective. Therefore, thorough coverage of all plant parts and frequent applications are required. The insecticide is sensitive to ultra-violet light degradation and rainfall, which can reduce residual activity (persistence). Spinosad is the active ingredient in several homeowner products, including: Natural Guard Spinosad; Captain Jack’s DeadBug Brew; and Monterey Garden Insect Spray. The insecticide works by contact and ingestion; however, activity is greatest when ingested by bagworms.

Cyfluthrin (BioAdvanced Vegetable &amp; Garden Insect Spray, lambda-cyhalothrin&nbsp; (Spectracide Triazicide, Bonide Caterpillar Killer, trichlorfon, chlorantraniliprole, and indoxacarb can also be used against young caterpillars. Again, thorough coverage of all plant parts, especially the tops of trees and shrubs, where bagworms commonly start feeding, and frequent applications are essential in achieving sufficient suppression of bagworm populations. 

The reason multiple applications are needed is that bagworm larvae do not hatch from eggs simultaneously, but hatch over time depending on temperature. In addition, young bagworms can ‘blow in’ (called ‘ballooning’) from neighboring plants on silken threads. If left unchecked, bagworms can cause significant damage and ruin the aesthetic quality of plants. In addition, bagworms may kill plants, especially newly transplanted small evergreens, since evergreens do not usually produce another flush of growth after being fed upon or defoliated by bagworms.

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>For those of you that have been waiting patiently by reading another book or counting your stockpile of toilet paper, or for some…impatiently; it is time to look for bagworms. Although the cool weather we have experienced this spring will slow development, and consequently larvae hatching from eggs, bagworm caterpillars will eventually be present throughout Kansas feeding on broadleaf and evergreen trees and shrubs. Therefore, be prepared to act against bagworms once they are observed on plants. Bagworms are primarily a pest of conifers; however, they feed on a wide-range of host plants including a number of broadleaf plants, such as; rose, honey locust, hackberry, and flowering plum. It is important to apply insecticides when bagworms are less than 1/4 inch long to maximize effectiveness of insecticide applications and subsequently reduce plant damage.Several insecticides are labeled for use against bagworms including those with the following active ingredients: acephate, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, cyfluthrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, trichlorfon, indoxacarb, chlorantraniliprole, and spinosad. Most of these active ingredients are commercially available and sold under various trade names or as generic products. However, several insecticides may not be directly available to homeowners.The key to managing bagworms with insecticides at this time of year is to apply insecticides early and frequently enough to kill the highly susceptible young caterpillars feeding on plant foliage.Applying insecticides weekly for four to five weeks when bagworms are first noticed will reduce problems with bagworms later in the year. The bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, which is sold under various trade names, is only active on young caterpillars and must be consumed or ingested to be effective. Therefore, thorough coverage of all plant parts and frequent applications are required. The insecticide is sensitive to ultra-violet light degradation and rainfall, which can reduce residual activity (persistence). Spinosad is the active ingredient in several homeowner products, including: Natural Guard Spinosad; Captain Jack’s DeadBug Brew; and Monterey Garden Insect Spray. The insecticide works by contact and ingestion; however, activity is greatest when ingested by bagworms.Cyfluthrin (BioAdvanced Vegetable &amp; Garden Insect Spray, lambda-cyhalothrin&nbsp; (Spectracide Triazicide, Bonide Caterpillar Killer, trichlorfon, chlorantraniliprole, and indoxacarb can also be used against young caterpillars. Again, thorough coverage of all plant parts, especially the tops of trees and shrubs, where bagworms commonly start feeding, and frequent applications are essential in achieving sufficient suppression of bagworm populations. The reason multiple applications are needed is that bagworm larvae do not hatch from eggs simultaneously, but hatch over time depending on temperature. In addition, young bagworms can ‘blow in’ (called ‘ballooning’) from neighboring plants on silken threads. If left unchecked, bagworms can cause significant damage and ruin the aesthetic quality of plants. In addition, bagworms may kill plants, especially newly transplanted small evergreens, since evergreens do not usually produce another flush of growth after being fed upon or defoliated by bagworms.Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Controlling bagworms 

Grandpa always said some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Its sometimes tough to test that theory here in Kansas because if seems that more often than not, our rain comes with abundant thunder-and-lightning, or it comes as literal downpours, neither conducive to fishing. We just spent two days fishing Waconda Lake (aka Glen Elder Lake) with Leon Sievert, co-owner of Solomon Valley Outfitters, much of the time in the rain, and had an absolute blast, plus brought home many meals of fish for the freezer.

Like most lakes in Kansas, Waconda Lake and the surrounding area are rich with history. The north fork and the south fork of the Solomon River converge in Waconda Lake, situated in the northwest corner of Mitchell County, to create a reservoir of more than 12, 500 acres of water. The name “Wakonda” spelled with a “K” was a word used by the Kanza Indians to mean “Great Spirit.” Later as white men settled the area, the standard spelling became “Waconda” with a “C.” In the 1800’s, well before the lake was formed, a natural mineral spring existed there which became a gathering spot for all the different plains Indians who believed the water possessed healing powers, which in fact was partially true, as water from the spring won a medal at the 1904 World’s Fair in the category “mineral waters of superior medicinal qualities.” A sanitarium was later built near the spring, and water from the spring was piped into the bathtubs of all 60 rooms and used in a program of internal and external healing. The dam to form Waconda lake was completed in 1968, and the sanitarium was demolished and piled in the spring as the lake began to fill.

We met Leon at his pontoon boat the first evening, and after catching only one keeper walleye of over 18 inches at one of his favorite walleye haunts, we settled over a brush pile of discarded Christmas trees Leon described as being “At least the size of a house,” and rigged our rods to fish for crappies. A bright colored jig-head tipped with a minnow was the ticket, and we fished it lowered over the brush pile at a specific height to avoid getting hung-up in the brush. Crappie had to be ten inches to keep, and we soon began putting “keepers” in the cooler. When we quit for the evening, Leon told us we’d probably need raingear for the next morning as rain and storms appeared to be on the menu for the next couple days. Sure enough, we awoke Friday morning to a steady drizzle. Rain stung our face as we headed out of the marina and toward the dam to again attempt to put a few walleyes in the cooler. After little luck there, we headed across the lake toward another favorite walleye spot. The rain was still a slow off-and-on drizzle, but the nearer we got to our destination, the harder it rained until we rode in a steady, soaking rain. We turned back but the rain chased us across the lake, threatening the morning’s outing. We voted to stop over the brush pile again for a short while, and as lines were dropped, all three of us had big, slab crappie hooked almost instantly. We sat there in a cold, drenching rain and caught big crappie, one-after-another for over an hour before finally crying “uncle” and giving-in to the rain’s perseverance.

Back at our room, warm, dry clothes felt good, but what a great morning of fishing, even in the rain. After experiencing how dry Kansas summers can be, I’ve learned not to complain much about the rain, and I think grandpa was right that some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Grandpa always said some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Its sometimes tough to test that theory here in Kansas because if seems that more often than not, our rain comes with abundant thunder-and-lightning, or it comes as literal downpours, neither conducive to fishing. We just spent two days fishing Waconda Lake (aka Glen Elder Lake) with Leon Sievert, co-owner of Solomon Valley Outfitters, much of the time in the rain, and had an absolute blast, plus brought home many meals of fish for the freezer.Like most lakes in Kansas, Waconda Lake and the surrounding area are rich with history. The north fork and the south fork of the Solomon River converge in Waconda Lake, situated in the northwest corner of Mitchell County, to create a reservoir of more than 12, 500 acres of water. The name “Wakonda” spelled with a “K” was a word used by the Kanza Indians to mean “Great Spirit.” Later as white men settled the area, the standard spelling became “Waconda” with a “C.” In the 1800’s, well before the lake was formed, a natural mineral spring existed there which became a gathering spot for all the different plains Indians who believed the water possessed healing powers, which in fact was partially true, as water from the spring won a medal at the 1904 World’s Fair in the category “mineral waters of superior medicinal qualities.” A sanitarium was later built near the spring, and water from the spring was piped into the bathtubs of all 60 rooms and used in a program of internal and external healing. The dam to form Waconda lake was completed in 1968, and the sanitarium was demolished and piled in the spring as the lake began to fill.We met Leon at his pontoon boat the first evening, and after catching only one keeper walleye of over 18 inches at one of his favorite walleye haunts, we settled over a brush pile of discarded Christmas trees Leon described as being “At least the size of a house,” and rigged our rods to fish for crappies. A bright colored jig-head tipped with a minnow was the ticket, and we fished it lowered over the brush pile at a specific height to avoid getting hung-up in the brush. Crappie had to be ten inches to keep, and we soon began putting “keepers” in the cooler. When we quit for the evening, Leon told us we’d probably need raingear for the next morning as rain and storms appeared to be on the menu for the next couple days. Sure enough, we awoke Friday morning to a steady drizzle. Rain stung our face as we headed out of the marina and toward the dam to again attempt to put a few walleyes in the cooler. After little luck there, we headed across the lake toward another favorite walleye spot. The rain was still a slow off-and-on drizzle, but the nearer we got to our destination, the harder it rained until we rode in a steady, soaking rain. We turned back but the rain chased us across the lake, threatening the morning’s outing. We voted to stop over the brush pile again for a short while, and as lines were dropped, all three of us had big, slab crappie hooked almost instantly. We sat there in a cold, drenching rain and caught big crappie, one-after-another for over an hour before finally crying “uncle” and giving-in to the rain’s perseverance.Back at our room, warm, dry clothes felt good, but what a great morning of fishing, even in the rain. After experiencing how dry Kansas summers can be, I’ve learned not to complain much about the rain, and I think grandpa was right that some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Crappies in the rain

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays Mayor Shaun Musil was full of praise Thursday night for Police Chief Don Scheibler in his handling of a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ed44fb3ebfb13423b2696c3">public demonstration Sunday</a>&nbsp; in&nbsp;support of an end to perceived nationwide police brutality and race inequality.

"Kudos to our chief," Musil said at the end of the city commission work session. Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor, echoed her agreement.

Musil and Jacobs were at Sunday afternoon's demonstration, although it was "not by design," according to Musil.&nbsp; &nbsp;

More than 100 people gathered at the busy intersection of 27th and Vine Streets, chanting and holding signs of protest about police brutality in Minneapolis and throughout the country. 

George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, died May 25 in Minneapolis after Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on&nbsp;Floyd's&nbsp;neck for almost nine minutes while&nbsp;Floyd&nbsp;was handcuffed face down in the street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays protesters were mostly met with peace signs and honks of support from passing drivers as they stood peacefully lining both sides of 27th Street — while cities across the U.S., including <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ed7f186ebfb13423b26e00c">Wichita</a>&nbsp;and Topeka, grappled with looting and violence.

"Scheibler went out and talked to every single person out there," Musil said.&nbsp;

"He was more concerned about them being safe. They were really close to Vine. He asked them to move over onto the grass. And he stood there until they all got across the street."

The drivers and passengers in a handful of vehicles showed their opposition to the group, flying American and Blue Lives Matter flags, and hurling harsh words and derogatory hand gestures.

The phrase "All lives matter" was heard in reaction to chants of "Black lives matter" from the crowd.&nbsp;

"We had no issues in Hays," Musil said of the demonstration. Several local law enforcement officers were on the scene in addition to Scheibler.

Still, the mayor acknowledged there are underlying issues of racism in Hays.&nbsp;

"You talk to people behind the scenes and they have different opinions on the way things are.&nbsp;

"But it feels great being in a community like Hays and having someone like Scheibler in charge of our police force."

While talking to the chief, Musil said Scheibler told him "he preaches to his employees about not doing what we're seeing nationally.

"The good thing is we're not national. We're Hays, Kansas, and I'm very proud to be a part of this community.

"Just being around him and the way he represented us, we should all be very proud of him," Musil said to the other commissioners.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591329168301.jpeg" alt="About 100 people protested in Hays Sunday afternoon against perceived police brutality and race inequality across the nation. (Photos by James Bell/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>About 100 people protested in Hays Sunday afternoon against perceived police brutality and race inequality across the nation. (Photos by James Bell/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays Mayor Shaun Musil was full of praise Thursday night for Police Chief Don Scheibler in his handling of a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ed44fb3ebfb13423b2696c3">public demonstration Sunday</a>&nbsp; in&nbsp;support of an end to perceived nationwide police brutality and race inequality."Kudos to our chief," Musil said at the end of the city commission work session. Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor, echoed her agreement.Musil and Jacobs were at Sunday afternoon's demonstration, although it was "not by design," according to Musil.&nbsp; &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591328713532.jpeg" alt="Protesters at the intersection of 27th and Vine in Hays Sunday.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Protesters at the intersection of 27th and Vine in Hays Sunday.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>More than 100 people gathered at the busy intersection of 27th and Vine Streets, chanting and holding signs of protest about police brutality in Minneapolis and throughout the country. George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, died May 25 in Minneapolis after Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on&nbsp;Floyd's&nbsp;neck for almost nine minutes while&nbsp;Floyd&nbsp;was handcuffed face down in the street.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Hays protesters were mostly met with peace signs and honks of support from passing drivers as they stood peacefully lining both sides of 27th Street — while cities across the U.S., including <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ed7f186ebfb13423b26e00c">Wichita</a>&nbsp;and Topeka, grappled with looting and violence.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HdBT0FabLZI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Scheibler went out and talked to every single person out there," Musil said.&nbsp;"He was more concerned about them being safe. They were really close to Vine. He asked them to move over onto the grass. And he stood there until they all got across the street."The drivers and passengers in a handful of vehicles showed their opposition to the group, flying American and Blue Lives Matter flags, and hurling harsh words and derogatory hand gestures.The phrase "All lives matter" was heard in reaction to chants of "Black lives matter" from the crowd.&nbsp;"We had no issues in Hays," Musil said of the demonstration. Several local law enforcement officers were on the scene in addition to Scheibler.Still, the mayor acknowledged there are underlying issues of racism in Hays.&nbsp;"You talk to people behind the scenes and they have different opinions on the way things are.&nbsp;"But it feels great being in a community like Hays and having someone like Scheibler in charge of our police force."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591328923935.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler (back row center) poses for a picture with some of the Black Lives Matters demonstrators.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler (back row center) poses for a picture with some of the Black Lives Matters demonstrators.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>While talking to the chief, Musil said Scheibler told him "he preaches to his employees about not doing what we're seeing nationally."The good thing is we're not national. We're Hays, Kansas, and I'm very proud to be a part of this community."Just being around him and the way he represented us, we should all be very proud of him," Musil said to the other commissioners.&nbsp;

🎥 Mayor on demonstrations: 'We're not national. We're Hays, Kansas'

By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County Review

PHILLIPSBURG — The bitter mudslinging, fist fights and even murders taking place in April and May 2020 regarding wearing protective Coronavirus Pandemic Masks might seem like it should be unusual. &nbsp;In fact, the issue of wearing protective masks descended to such a low spot just last week that the two major presidential candidates were actually calling one another names over it.&nbsp;

And while this feels like it should be unusual, it is not -- not by a long shot. &nbsp;During the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918-1920 the same bitter conflict including extreme violence took place relating to wearing masks -- took place not just in isolated incidents, but as a regular and pervasive aspect of that pandemic among police, civilians, doctors and lay people alike.

During the early days of Spanish Flu in 1918, the Washington State Board of Health issued a public health order requiring the wearing of flu masks in an attempt to slow down the spread of one of the deadliest epidemics the world had ever known.

Two Walla Walla attorneys, arguing their civil rights were being violated, decided to challenge the order. &nbsp;Both appeared in public without the masks, and were promptly arrested and charged.

A similar order was put into place in Iowa that same month. &nbsp;Upon being challenged the order was modified from requiring masks to be worn whenever out in public, to requiring them only when groups of people were assembling. &nbsp;

“This provision applies to all churches, theaters, and public gatherings,” required the modified order. &nbsp;Failure of any establishment to enforce the mandate resulted in a total closing of the facility.

In late 1918, three people were shot and a bombing was attempted in California, with the incidents being directly related to wearing/not wearing flu masks. &nbsp;The gunplay resulted when an armed deputy public health officer, H.D. Miller, attempted to enforce a San Francisco order requiring the wearing of masks. &nbsp;The incident began when James Weiser was standing in front of a downtown drugstore without wearing the required face covering, and was loudly telling others they should refuse to wear one too. &nbsp;The confrontation escalated, during which Weiser allegedly approached the officer and struck him over the head with a bag of coins. &nbsp;Officer Miller then opened fire, spraying bullets and wounding Weiser in the hand and the leg.

In Miller’s fusillade, two innocent bystanders were also hit in their arms, with both receiving minor wounds. &nbsp;Weiser was transported to the hospital. &nbsp;He was subsequently placed under arrest for failure to comply with the order to wear masks while Officer Miller was charged with assault with a deadly weapon.

Six weeks later, a mailbomb was sent to San Francisco Senior Public Health Officer, Dr. William Hassler, after he had persisted in his campaign to require residents of the city to wear flu masks.

Said a report on the incident, “Doctor Hassler has appeared before the San Francisco Board of Supervisors several times within the last few weeks with a recommendation that the board re-enact an ordinance making compulsory the wearing of gauze masks as a precautionary measure against the spread of Spanish Influenza, which is epidemic here. &nbsp;He told police he had received several threatening letters protesting against his insistence that the wearing of masks be resumed.”

The bomb consisted of three pounds of gunpowder with a fuse in it surrounded by shot and broken glass, all of which was encased in a metal pipe 5 inches in diameter and 10 inches long. &nbsp;Attached to the bomb was an alarm clock with a match on the striker, which was positioned to light the fuse when the alarm went off. &nbsp;The bomb failed to explode because the manual winder on the clock had run out.

In another legal case an elderly man in California refused to wear a flu mask in violation of public health orders because it hindered his ability to smoke. &nbsp;Upon being issued a citation he appeared in court, paid the five dollar fine, and tossed mothballs into the courtroom gallery in retaliation for his trouble.

The scofflaw, one E. Piercy, stated “I am 75 years old and have been living in this state for 67 years, and of all the fool laws ever passed this god darned flu mask ordinance is the limit. &nbsp;Here are a few mothballs to clarify this courtroom. &nbsp;I claim that tobacco will kill flu germs with a greater degree of efficiency than any blamed flu mask ever invented. &nbsp;I must have my smoke, and I’m not going to give up my tobacco for a cheesecloth muzzle.

As these types of cases proliferated the pushback from some segments of society continued. &nbsp;When taking their animals for walks in Pasadena, California, pet owners began appearing in public not only wearing the required masks themselves, their dogs also had them on. &nbsp;In addition, automobiles wearing masks also became a common sight around town.

With 2020 presidential candidate’s looks being judged while wearing a Covid Mask during the present election season, men’s appearances were also mocked back in 1919. &nbsp;One article from the Gardner (Ks) Gazette noted, “During the influenza epidemic in southern California the spectators and players at a ball game presented a ludicrous appearance. &nbsp;All were swathed in flu masks, even the umpire shouting his decisions through one. &nbsp;A fine of $5 was the penalty for removing the masks, even when the game called for enthusiastic rooting.”

Then there was Henrietta Lockwood of Chicago, Illinois, who rode the train cross country to Los Angeles in January 1919. &nbsp;Not knowing there was a mandatory flu mask order in place, when she emerged from the passenger car and went on into the train terminal, she saw hundreds of people wearing them. &nbsp;Thinking she had stepped into a massive cesspool of disease she ended up, according to the Associated Press, “in the county hospital here today suffering from insanity when she alighted from an overland train at Pasadena and beheld the station crowds encased in masks. Doctors say there is no doubt that sheer fright at the sight of the masked throngs caused insanity.”

Republished with permission. Images courtesy Phillips County Review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591128476560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KIRBY ROSS Phillips County ReviewPHILLIPSBURG — The bitter mudslinging, fist fights and even murders taking place in April and May 2020 regarding wearing protective Coronavirus Pandemic Masks might seem like it should be unusual. &nbsp;In fact, the issue of wearing protective masks descended to such a low spot just last week that the two major presidential candidates were actually calling one another names over it.&nbsp;And while this feels like it should be unusual, it is not -- not by a long shot. &nbsp;During the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918-1920 the same bitter conflict including extreme violence took place relating to wearing masks -- took place not just in isolated incidents, but as a regular and pervasive aspect of that pandemic among police, civilians, doctors and lay people alike.During the early days of Spanish Flu in 1918, the Washington State Board of Health issued a public health order requiring the wearing of flu masks in an attempt to slow down the spread of one of the deadliest epidemics the world had ever known.Two Walla Walla attorneys, arguing their civil rights were being violated, decided to challenge the order. &nbsp;Both appeared in public without the masks, and were promptly arrested and charged.A similar order was put into place in Iowa that same month. &nbsp;Upon being challenged the order was modified from requiring masks to be worn whenever out in public, to requiring them only when groups of people were assembling. &nbsp;“This provision applies to all churches, theaters, and public gatherings,” required the modified order. &nbsp;Failure of any establishment to enforce the mandate resulted in a total closing of the facility.In late 1918, three people were shot and a bombing was attempted in California, with the incidents being directly related to wearing/not wearing flu masks. &nbsp;The gunplay resulted when an armed deputy public health officer, H.D. Miller, attempted to enforce a San Francisco order requiring the wearing of masks. &nbsp;The incident began when James Weiser was standing in front of a downtown drugstore without wearing the required face covering, and was loudly telling others they should refuse to wear one too. &nbsp;The confrontation escalated, during which Weiser allegedly approached the officer and struck him over the head with a bag of coins. &nbsp;Officer Miller then opened fire, spraying bullets and wounding Weiser in the hand and the leg.In Miller’s fusillade, two innocent bystanders were also hit in their arms, with both receiving minor wounds. &nbsp;Weiser was transported to the hospital. &nbsp;He was subsequently placed under arrest for failure to comply with the order to wear masks while Officer Miller was charged with assault with a deadly weapon.Six weeks later, a mailbomb was sent to San Francisco Senior Public Health Officer, Dr. William Hassler, after he had persisted in his campaign to require residents of the city to wear flu masks.Said a report on the incident, “Doctor Hassler has appeared before the San Francisco Board of Supervisors several times within the last few weeks with a recommendation that the board re-enact an ordinance making compulsory the wearing of gauze masks as a precautionary measure against the spread of Spanish Influenza, which is epidemic here. &nbsp;He told police he had received several threatening letters protesting against his insistence that the wearing of masks be resumed.”The bomb consisted of three pounds of gunpowder with a fuse in it surrounded by shot and broken glass, all of which was encased in a metal pipe 5 inches in diameter and 10 inches long. &nbsp;Attached to the bomb was an alarm clock with a match on the striker, which was positioned to light the fuse when the alarm went off. &nbsp;The bomb failed to explode because the manual winder on the clock had run out.In another legal case an elderly man in California refused to wear a flu mask in violation of public health orders because it hindered his ability to smoke. &nbsp;Upon being issued a citation he appeared in court, paid the five dollar fine, and tossed mothballs into the courtroom gallery in retaliation for his trouble.The scofflaw, one E. Piercy, stated “I am 75 years old and have been living in this state for 67 years, and of all the fool laws ever passed this god darned flu mask ordinance is the limit. &nbsp;Here are a few mothballs to clarify this courtroom. &nbsp;I claim that tobacco will kill flu germs with a greater degree of efficiency than any blamed flu mask ever invented. &nbsp;I must have my smoke, and I’m not going to give up my tobacco for a cheesecloth muzzle.As these types of cases proliferated the pushback from some segments of society continued. &nbsp;When taking their animals for walks in Pasadena, California, pet owners began appearing in public not only wearing the required masks themselves, their dogs also had them on. &nbsp;In addition, automobiles wearing masks also became a common sight around town.With 2020 presidential candidate’s looks being judged while wearing a Covid Mask during the present election season, men’s appearances were also mocked back in 1919. &nbsp;One article from the Gardner (Ks) Gazette noted, “During the influenza epidemic in southern California the spectators and players at a ball game presented a ludicrous appearance. &nbsp;All were swathed in flu masks, even the umpire shouting his decisions through one. &nbsp;A fine of $5 was the penalty for removing the masks, even when the game called for enthusiastic rooting.”Then there was Henrietta Lockwood of Chicago, Illinois, who rode the train cross country to Los Angeles in January 1919. &nbsp;Not knowing there was a mandatory flu mask order in place, when she emerged from the passenger car and went on into the train terminal, she saw hundreds of people wearing them. &nbsp;Thinking she had stepped into a massive cesspool of disease she ended up, according to the Associated Press, “in the county hospital here today suffering from insanity when she alighted from an overland train at Pasadena and beheld the station crowds encased in masks. Doctors say there is no doubt that sheer fright at the sight of the masked throngs caused insanity.”Republished with permission. Images courtesy Phillips County Review.<figure>
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ROSS: Pandemic masks — controversial even in 1918

May was a busy month for city of Hays' employees who completed numerous projects as the weather warmed and stay-at-home restrictions loosened.

Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, has look at some of the work done by different departments:

By BECKY KISER Hays PostMay was a busy month for city of Hays' employees who completed numerous projects as the weather warmed and stay-at-home restrictions loosened.Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, has look at some of the work done by different departments:<figure>
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🎥 City workers complete various projects in Hays during May  

By DIANE GASPER-O'BRIEN&nbsp; FHSU University Relations and Marketing&nbsp; Hector Hernandez is still a couple of months away from starting his professional career, and his college professors already think he is the ideal person for the job.&nbsp; Hector graduated from Fort Hays State University this spring with a Bachelor of Arts in music education. He will begin teaching band at Dodge City Middle School in August.&nbsp; Hector, who speaks Spanish fluently, will fit in well in a school whose district-wide enrollment of 7,300 is nearly 80 percent Hispanic.&nbsp; “Hector is a lifelong learner,” said Dr. Peter Lillpopp, assistant professor of music and theatre. “In our applied lessons, Hector would come with lots of questions and an intense desire to excel in his performance. The best teachers are ones who never stop learning, and Hector is definitely going to channel that to his own students.”&nbsp; Hector was assigned to student teach in Dodge City for the spring 2020 semester, which was cut short because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But he interacted with the middle school students long enough to realize any fears he might have had about teaching at that grade level were unfounded.&nbsp; After all, it was during his middle school days when Hernandez first became interested in playing the trombone, an experience that ultimately led to this career of choice.&nbsp; A native of California, Hector moved to Junction City when he was in middle school when his dad, a member of the U.S. Army, was stationed at nearby Fort Riley. Hector said it was hard to fit in at a new school initially. He found a friend group among band members and began playing the trombone, an instrument he had learned to play a few years earlier from a family friend.&nbsp; Hector learned about Fort Hays State, which “caught his eye every year,” when he accompanied his high school band to the High Plains Music Festival at FHSU every fall semester. After graduation, a lot of his classmates were heading up the road about 20 miles to their hometown university, but that’s not what Hector wanted.&nbsp; “I wanted the chance to learn a different culture, and I found Fort Hays State was very affordable while getting a very quality education,” said Hector, a first-generation college graduate for his family. “I wanted to really concentrate on my music,” he said, “and didn’t just want to be a number.”&nbsp; He found just that at FHSU, where he was able to saturate himself in anything that involved music.&nbsp; “People knew me personally,” Hector said. “I’d meet a professor in the music department in the hallway, and they would know my name, even if I didn’t have a class with them.”&nbsp; There was good reason those professors knew Hector’s name. Hewas a member of the Tiger marching band his entire career and played in the symphonic orchestra and numerous ensembles. He played in the pit orchestra for musicals and operas and was chosen as the low brass section leader from his sophomore year on. He also served as president of FHSU’s chapter of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME).&nbsp; One of his favorite activities was playing in the Hays Symphony Orchestra.&nbsp; “How many people get the opportunity to play pieces that been played by professionals,” he said. “It’s one thing to play in a band in a nice concert setting, but it’s another to play professional music in front of hundreds of people. Fort Hays State gave me so many opportunities.”&nbsp; Dr. Laura Andrews, advisor for FHSU’s chapter of NAfME, commended Hector for taking advantage of those opportunities. She pointed out characteristics that will bode well in the education field.&nbsp; “He is trustworthy, easy going and calm, with a healthy sense of humor,” she said. “Hector has always demonstrated a keen interest in helps succeed – and his students will succeed.”&nbsp; Dr. Andrews, associate professor of music and theatre,&nbsp;appreciates the input from music education majors out in the field, and she is anxious to keep in touch with Hector.&nbsp; “I look forward to sharing Hector’s experiences in real-world knowledge,” Dr. Andrews said. “Our students learn best by watching teachers teach, and his expertise as a new teacher will be invaluable in our methods classes.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591035512087.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O'BRIEN&nbsp; FHSU University Relations and Marketing&nbsp; Hector Hernandez is still a couple of months away from starting his professional career, and his college professors already think he is the ideal person for the job.&nbsp; Hector graduated from Fort Hays State University this spring with a Bachelor of Arts in music education. He will begin teaching band at Dodge City Middle School in August.&nbsp; Hector, who speaks Spanish fluently, will fit in well in a school whose district-wide enrollment of 7,300 is nearly 80 percent Hispanic.&nbsp; “Hector is a lifelong learner,” said Dr. Peter Lillpopp, assistant professor of music and theatre. “In our applied lessons, Hector would come with lots of questions and an intense desire to excel in his performance. The best teachers are ones who never stop learning, and Hector is definitely going to channel that to his own students.”&nbsp; Hector was assigned to student teach in Dodge City for the spring 2020 semester, which was cut short because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But he interacted with the middle school students long enough to realize any fears he might have had about teaching at that grade level were unfounded.&nbsp; After all, it was during his middle school days when Hernandez first became interested in playing the trombone, an experience that ultimately led to this career of choice.&nbsp; A native of California, Hector moved to Junction City when he was in middle school when his dad, a member of the U.S. Army, was stationed at nearby Fort Riley. Hector said it was hard to fit in at a new school initially. He found a friend group among band members and began playing the trombone, an instrument he had learned to play a few years earlier from a family friend.&nbsp; Hector learned about Fort Hays State, which “caught his eye every year,” when he accompanied his high school band to the High Plains Music Festival at FHSU every fall semester. After graduation, a lot of his classmates were heading up the road about 20 miles to their hometown university, but that’s not what Hector wanted.&nbsp; “I wanted the chance to learn a different culture, and I found Fort Hays State was very affordable while getting a very quality education,” said Hector, a first-generation college graduate for his family. “I wanted to really concentrate on my music,” he said, “and didn’t just want to be a number.”&nbsp; He found just that at FHSU, where he was able to saturate himself in anything that involved music.&nbsp; “People knew me personally,” Hector said. “I’d meet a professor in the music department in the hallway, and they would know my name, even if I didn’t have a class with them.”&nbsp; There was good reason those professors knew Hector’s name. Hewas a member of the Tiger marching band his entire career and played in the symphonic orchestra and numerous ensembles. He played in the pit orchestra for musicals and operas and was chosen as the low brass section leader from his sophomore year on. He also served as president of FHSU’s chapter of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME).&nbsp; One of his favorite activities was playing in the Hays Symphony Orchestra.&nbsp; “How many people get the opportunity to play pieces that been played by professionals,” he said. “It’s one thing to play in a band in a nice concert setting, but it’s another to play professional music in front of hundreds of people. Fort Hays State gave me so many opportunities.”&nbsp; Dr. Laura Andrews, advisor for FHSU’s chapter of NAfME, commended Hector for taking advantage of those opportunities. She pointed out characteristics that will bode well in the education field.&nbsp; “He is trustworthy, easy going and calm, with a healthy sense of humor,” she said. “Hector has always demonstrated a keen interest in helps succeed – and his students will succeed.”&nbsp; Dr. Andrews, associate professor of music and theatre,&nbsp;appreciates the input from music education majors out in the field, and she is anxious to keep in touch with Hector.&nbsp; “I look forward to sharing Hector’s experiences in real-world knowledge,” Dr. Andrews said. “Our students learn best by watching teachers teach, and his expertise as a new teacher will be invaluable in our methods classes.”&nbsp;

First-generation graduate finds perfect combination for success at FHSU

Just as an athlete can experience an injury in competition, so too can a bull when he is turned out in a breeding pasture where his athleticism is going to be tested.

“Bulls will be the busiest in the first month of the breeding season when there are a lot of females coming into heat (estrus,” said Kansas State University veterinarian Bob Larson&nbsp;

“At the beginning of the breeding season, about 5% of the cows that aren’t pregnant will be in heat daily,” Larson said, citing an example of a 1:30 bull to female ratio in which, on average, two cows can be expected to be showing signs of estrus each day.

Because of that, Larson said even if the bulls have passed a breeding soundness exam prior to turnout, producers still need to watch them closely once they are in the pastures with the cows.

Common injuries include lameness due to feet and leg issues as well as a broken penis, which can happen when he is mounting a female and another bull shows aggression towards him. Later in the summer when the flies are more active, pinkeye can be a concern.

“A good time to check the bulls is when you are checking on the salt and mineral in the pastures in the early morning or at dusk,” said Bob Weaber, beef cattle specialist with K-State Research and Extension. “If the bull isn’t with the cows but is off in another part of the pasture laying down that is a concern.”&nbsp;

Weaber added it is important to maintain personal safety when working around bulls.

“Mature bulls can be difficult so it is best to observe them from your ATV, pickup truck or on the back of a horse,” Weaber said.

Lameness is easy to notice when the bull first gets up and begins moving around, Weaber said, while Larson added that a bull with a broken penis will show swelling on his underline right in front of the scrotum.

As the breeding season goes on, the physical demands on the bull should lessen.

“After the first 21 days of the season, producers should expect at least half of the cows to be pregnant,” Larson said. “If it’s a month into the breeding season and you see a lot of cows riding each other, that would be the time to have the veterinarian check on him.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Just as an athlete can experience an injury in competition, so too can a bull when he is turned out in a breeding pasture where his athleticism is going to be tested.“Bulls will be the busiest in the first month of the breeding season when there are a lot of females coming into heat (estrus,” said Kansas State University veterinarian Bob Larson&nbsp;“At the beginning of the breeding season, about 5% of the cows that aren’t pregnant will be in heat daily,” Larson said, citing an example of a 1:30 bull to female ratio in which, on average, two cows can be expected to be showing signs of estrus each day.Because of that, Larson said even if the bulls have passed a breeding soundness exam prior to turnout, producers still need to watch them closely once they are in the pastures with the cows.Common injuries include lameness due to feet and leg issues as well as a broken penis, which can happen when he is mounting a female and another bull shows aggression towards him. Later in the summer when the flies are more active, pinkeye can be a concern.“A good time to check the bulls is when you are checking on the salt and mineral in the pastures in the early morning or at dusk,” said Bob Weaber, beef cattle specialist with K-State Research and Extension. “If the bull isn’t with the cows but is off in another part of the pasture laying down that is a concern.”&nbsp;Weaber added it is important to maintain personal safety when working around bulls.“Mature bulls can be difficult so it is best to observe them from your ATV, pickup truck or on the back of a horse,” Weaber said.Lameness is easy to notice when the bull first gets up and begins moving around, Weaber said, while Larson added that a bull with a broken penis will show swelling on his underline right in front of the scrotum.As the breeding season goes on, the physical demands on the bull should lessen.“After the first 21 days of the season, producers should expect at least half of the cows to be pregnant,” Larson said. “If it’s a month into the breeding season and you see a lot of cows riding each other, that would be the time to have the veterinarian check on him.”Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Bull soundness

CHEYENNE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Friday in Cheyenne County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by Braden Lee Albers, 43, Ash Flat, AR., was northbound on Kansas 27 at the U.S. 36 junction.

The semi left the roadway towards the east ditch. The driver over corrected and the vehicle rolled into the ditch.&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Albers to Cheyenne County Hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

CHEYENNE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Friday in Cheyenne County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by Braden Lee Albers, 43, Ash Flat, AR., was northbound on Kansas 27 at the U.S. 36 junction.The semi left the roadway towards the east ditch. The driver over corrected and the vehicle rolled into the ditch.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Albers to Cheyenne County Hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi rolls in NW Kansas

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission approved right of way
acquisition and an environmental assessment on the Northwest Business Corridor
at this week’s commission meeting as the project continues to move along.

Buck Driggs from Driggs Design group presented the first
amendment to the Northwest Business Corridor contract Monday and gave the
commission an update on the project.

The acquisition covers a portion of 31 tracts of land for
needs improvements for the road project. The total cost is $119,000.

“These are items we really didn’t know a whole lot about
with the original contract,” Driggs said. “We had to get into design before we
understood how many tracts of property were really going to be required.”

Information presented to the commission indicated they had
originally had planned for an impact to approximately 25 tracts of land.

The acquisitions include temporary construction easements
and permanent right of way acquisition.

Driggs told the commission Monday they have submitted 30-percent
plans to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

“I think overall we are about three weeks ahead of schedule,”
Driggs said. “This will keep us ahead of schedule.”

Driggs said a lot of the environmental review has already
been done by KDOT. 

Terracon Consultants will begin geotechnical exploration Monday.

The set of plans will be field check plans, according to
Driggs, and those will be submitted in August. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission approved right of way
acquisition and an environmental assessment on the Northwest Business Corridor
at this week’s commission meeting as the project continues to move along.Buck Driggs from Driggs Design group presented the first
amendment to the Northwest Business Corridor contract Monday and gave the
commission an update on the project.The acquisition covers a portion of 31 tracts of land for
needs improvements for the road project. The total cost is $119,000.“These are items we really didn’t know a whole lot about
with the original contract,” Driggs said. “We had to get into design before we
understood how many tracts of property were really going to be required.”Information presented to the commission indicated they had
originally had planned for an impact to approximately 25 tracts of land.The acquisitions include temporary construction easements
and permanent right of way acquisition.Driggs told the commission Monday they have submitted 30-percent
plans to the Kansas Department of Transportation.“I think overall we are about three weeks ahead of schedule,”
Driggs said. “This will keep us ahead of schedule.”Driggs said a lot of the environmental review has already
been done by KDOT. Terracon Consultants will begin geotechnical exploration Monday.The set of plans will be field check plans, according to
Driggs, and those will be submitted in August. In other business, the commission:<ul>
 <li>Got an annual mental health annual report from High Plains Mental Health.</li><li>Held a public hearing on a community development block grant for the COVID-19 pandemic. </li><li>Tabled a discussion on purchasing additional security cameras for the Administration Building. </li><li>Continued discussions on the 2021 budget. </li>
 </ul>

Work on Northwest Business Corridor ahead of schedule

After a delayed opening due to COVID-19 precautions, the Hays Aquatic Park is set to open Saturday, just as temperatures well over 90 degrees settle into the area.

"Basically, the pool will open two weeks later than normal," said Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Center director.

With the opening, some precautionary measures have been put in place for the safety of the patrons and staff.

"We have ramped up the cleaning there," Bixenman said, noting extra staff will be working to ensure cleaning is ongoing.

Lounge chairs will be separated by a 6-foot distance and lazy river tubes will be cleaned after each use.

Restrooms will also be cleaned more frequently and barriers will be in place for the safety of the staff and the patrons coming in, he said.

While the Aquatic Park will open, the Wilson pool will remain closed for the summer. And with other pools in the area choosing to remain closed, Bixenman said it is possible the park has a busy summer.

"We could get an influx of patrons here," he said. "I think people are ready to get out in the sun and the water.

"We look forward to the next month and a half for people to come out and enjoy the pool," he added.

Pool passes are set at $35 per person through the end of June.

The park will be open Monday-Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

While preparations are being made for the opening of the Hays Aquatic Park, the Hays Recreation Commission is settling back into normal operations.

"The facilities have opened back up, thank goodness," Bixenman said. "It's been a crazy couple of months. But our fitness center opened back up on Monday, May 18, and the gyms and courts opened up a week later."

While the facility is reopened, COVID-19 precautions have been put in place there as well.

"We've got barriers up at the fitness center and barriers up at the front desk for the workers in the offices," Bixenman said. "We also have social distancing stickers and, of course, our cleaning schedules have ramped up."

Workers are cleaning the facility each morning and evening and throughout the day, he said.

"We are always cleaning during the normal times, but we just ramped it up," Bixenman said.

In the fitness center, every other machine is blocked in an effort to maintain social distancing, he said.

While traffic has returned to the fitness center, so far usage has been lower than normal. But as time goes on, Bixenman said, traffic is picking up more each day.

"I think more and more people are coming back, but I think during this time that people found other ways to maintain their fitness levels and do other things with their families, which is a good thing as well," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591310354433.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Aquatic Park open date set; Rec Center open now" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/gu8sg-dec9d0?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 PostAfter a delayed opening due to COVID-19 precautions, the Hays Aquatic Park is set to open Saturday, just as temperatures well over 90 degrees settle into the area."Basically, the pool will open two weeks later than normal," said Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Center director.With the opening, some precautionary measures have been put in place for the safety of the patrons and staff."We have ramped up the cleaning there," Bixenman said, noting extra staff will be working to ensure cleaning is ongoing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591310456538.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lounge chairs will be separated by a 6-foot distance and lazy river tubes will be cleaned after each use.Restrooms will also be cleaned more frequently and barriers will be in place for the safety of the staff and the patrons coming in, he said.While the Aquatic Park will open, the Wilson pool will remain closed for the summer. And with other pools in the area choosing to remain closed, Bixenman said it is possible the park has a busy summer."We could get an influx of patrons here," he said. "I think people are ready to get out in the sun and the water."We look forward to the next month and a half for people to come out and enjoy the pool," he added.Pool passes are set at $35 per person through the end of June.The park will be open Monday-Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.While preparations are being made for the opening of the Hays Aquatic Park, the Hays Recreation Commission is settling back into normal operations."The facilities have opened back up, thank goodness," Bixenman said. "It's been a crazy couple of months. But our fitness center opened back up on Monday, May 18, and the gyms and courts opened up a week later."While the facility is reopened, COVID-19 precautions have been put in place there as well."We've got barriers up at the fitness center and barriers up at the front desk for the workers in the offices," Bixenman said. "We also have social distancing stickers and, of course, our cleaning schedules have ramped up."Workers are cleaning the facility each morning and evening and throughout the day, he said."We are always cleaning during the normal times, but we just ramped it up," Bixenman said.In the fitness center, every other machine is blocked in an effort to maintain social distancing, he said.While traffic has returned to the fitness center, so far usage has been lower than normal. But as time goes on, Bixenman said, traffic is picking up more each day."I think more and more people are coming back, but I think during this time that people found other ways to maintain their fitness levels and do other things with their families, which is a good thing as well," he said.

🎤Hays Aquatic Park a go to open this weekend; Rec Center open now

After the sudden departure of students from Fort Hays State University during the onset of COVID-19 precautions in the spring semester, the university is preparing plans for students to return in the fall.

But while they are optimistic students may return to campus, plans are being made that will ensure university operations and classes continue in one form or another.

<div><iframe title="FHSU plans for fall Semester" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/jbprz-decb54?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 PostAfter the sudden departure of students from Fort Hays State University during the onset of COVID-19 precautions in the spring semester, the university is preparing plans for students to return in the fall.But while they are optimistic students may return to campus, plans are being made that will ensure university operations and classes continue in one form or another."The business of the university is to delivery globally engaged citizens and that comes through relationships and academic challenge,"&nbsp;said Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer."So we are focused on being back in full force in the fall, in whatever shape or form we can to continue that mission."Cason said the school is looking at multiple options, contingencies and planning based on what happens with COVID-19 and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Ellis County Health Department."About two weeks ago, President Mason produced a plan that is called 'The phased plan for FHSU employee return and university reopening,' " Cason said. "It's a complicated title, but it really speaks to the complexity of the plan."Phase one of the plan began June 1 with select staff members returning to campus that work in positions that could not be completed remotely, like university police and maintenance staff, he said."People like that are all pretty much back at work if they can only do their job on-campus," Cason said.The second phase is anticipated to begin on July 1."It really will be driven by the successful implementation of phase one," Cason said. "If things go well in phase one, we can move into phase two."That phase will bring more people on campus and aligns with Gov. Laura Kelly's Ad Astra reopening plan and the transition scheduled for June 22. "We will make decisions on the transition between phase one to two on June 24," Cason said.The third phase is then set to begin on Aug. 1."Phase three is what we are all looking forward to," Cason said.In that phase, the university will look at all current information and decide if students will return to campus, but other options like hybrid delivery are being considered if needed for the safety of the campus community."It's a complex set of plans that are going on right now, but it's all geared toward that Aug. 1 reopening of campus," Cason said.A part of the plan includes safety precautions for students that will implement measures including educating students and staff in distancing practices, handwashing and mask use."This plan has to ensure the health and safety of all of our faculty, staff, students and visitors," he said. "We don't want to mess up on that — that's the most important guiding principle in our plan."

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