By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

KVC Hospital staff members lined Seventh Street on Tuesday afternoon as cars drove by with honking horns and waving drivers.

Audrey Lindenmeyer, KVC Hospitals Hays program director, said KVC workers have continued to come to work every day to provide care for children and teens struggling with their mental health.

The hospital administration organized the car caravan to honor the workers dedication. A similar parade was organized earlier in the day to honor the day staff and included the KVC Hospital patients.

"I think that it just shows them that, one, we really appreciate their dedication to KVC and to the kids and just wanting to say thank you again for their hard work,"&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said.

"Sometimes it is difficult when you have larger numbers of staff and we get busy with our daily activities to show that appreciation. My hope is that they come away from this knowing how much we appreciate everything they do."

KVC operates a 50-bed juvenile psychiatric residential treatment treatment facility in Hays. It has 88 employees at the Hays location.

Bree Hysaw, behavioral health technician, said she was not scared to come to work at the facility despite the virus.

"When you are working with someone who you needs you, it's not so scary," she said.

KVC has continued to remain open throughout the pandemic and is accepting new admissions for inpatient acute hospitalization and psychiatric residential treatment at all of our treatment centers in Kansas, including Hays.

No patients or staff members have tested positive at the Hays facility, Lindenmeyer said.

KVC Hospitals have enacted protocols in attempts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Lindenmeyer said everyone has been open and willing to comply with the protocols, which have included temperature checks for employees as they enter the facility.

"I think for families they definitely appreciate the extra precautions that we take to know that their child is safe and that we are doing everything we can to keep them safe while here,"&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said.

She said the Hays facility has been able to maintain staffing through the shutdown.

"I have been very impressed with the dedication of our staff has had throughout,"&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said.

Those protocols were outlined in a press release issued by KVC on May 6. They are listed below.

• KVC strongly encourages family involvement throughout the treatment process but as part of its goal to keep its clients safe, it will continue to restrict visitors until further notice. It is utilizing telehealth/video capabilities and phone calls to conduct family therapy and parental/guardian visits.

• Given the current challenges with the convergence of flu, cold, and allergy season along with concerns surrounding COVID‐19, KVC has created a workflow to care for clients who have potential symptoms. This includes a specialized observation space to conduct the necessary medical assessments while keeping other clients and employees healthy.  

• All of the healthcare professionals are entering the KVC treatment centers through the main entrance only and are not using a separate employee entrance. This allows KVC to conduct a thorough daily screening process with each employee, using guidelines from the CDC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. This screening includes temperature checks.

• KVC is screening its clients daily using guidelines from the CDC and the KDHE. This screening includes temperature checks twice a day.

• New potential clients are undergoing a screening process prior to admission to check for symptoms, fever, and self‐reported history of recent travel or interactions with people who have been diagnosed with COVID‐19.

• KVC housekeeping department is using disinfectants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and recommended by the CDC for sanitization of the coronavirus family.

• For children receiving treatment in KVC psychiatric residential treatment facilities, KVC will continue to cancel its community outings and weekend passes until further notice to reduce the risk of exposure.

• KVC has asked all vendors to leave deliveries outside and to alert us when a delivery has been completed. If a vendor must bring a delivery inside, they are undergoing the same screening process as KVC employees. For contractors who must complete work onsite, they are also undergoing our employee screening process.

• KVC will continue to provide extensive education to its employees and clients about COVID‐19 and healthy hygiene habits that prevent spreading.

• KVC will continue to cancel volunteer activities, tours and other activities that create opportunities for exposure to COVID‐19 in its treatment centers.

• For its PRTFs, each new client is tested for COVID‐19 as part of the admissions process. They will be given a face mask to wear until KVC has the test results to help ensure the safety of all clients in its care.

• If a PRTF client tests positive while in KVC care, the child’s treatment team will quickly determine the safest way for the child to continue receiving mental health treatment as well as treatment for COVID‐19. KVC will talk with the child’s family to develop a plan for a safe discharge from the PRTF so the child can return home to receive medical treatment for their COVID‐19 diagnosis. Then once the child is able to leave quarantine per CDC and state health department guidelines, KVC will help the family arrange to have the child return back to KVC to continue their mental health treatment.

"We value your partnership as we strive to provide the highest quality care and treatment for the children and families we serve,"&nbsp; Ryan Speier,&nbsp;KVC Hospitals&nbsp;president said in the news release. "We will continue having frequent, open communications with all of our community providers so that together, we can help keep children and families safe and healthy throughout these challenging times."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589921495940.jpeg" alt="KVC Hospital employees stand in back of a "Heroes Work Here" sign at the KVC Hays location on Tuesday. The hospital administration organized two car caravans to honor the employees who have been working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Photos by Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>KVC Hospital employees stand in back of a "Heroes Work Here" sign at the KVC Hays location on Tuesday. The hospital administration organized two car caravans to honor the employees who have been working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Photos by Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostKVC Hospital staff members lined Seventh Street on Tuesday afternoon as cars drove by with honking horns and waving drivers.Audrey Lindenmeyer, KVC Hospitals Hays program director, said KVC workers have continued to come to work every day to provide care for children and teens struggling with their mental health.The hospital administration organized the car caravan to honor the workers dedication. A similar parade was organized earlier in the day to honor the day staff and included the KVC Hospital patients.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WyBGtGcClPo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>"I think that it just shows them that, one, we really appreciate their dedication to KVC and to the kids and just wanting to say thank you again for their hard work,"&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said."Sometimes it is difficult when you have larger numbers of staff and we get busy with our daily activities to show that appreciation. My hope is that they come away from this knowing how much we appreciate everything they do."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589921743960.jpeg" alt="KVC Hospital has implemented protocols in attempts to stop the spread of COVID-19, including temperature checks for employees." />
 <figcaption>KVC Hospital has implemented protocols in attempts to stop the spread of COVID-19, including temperature checks for employees.</figcaption>
 </figure>KVC operates a 50-bed juvenile psychiatric residential treatment treatment facility in Hays. It has 88 employees at the Hays location.Bree Hysaw, behavioral health technician, said she was not scared to come to work at the facility despite the virus."When you are working with someone who you needs you, it's not so scary," she said.KVC has continued to remain open throughout the pandemic and is accepting new admissions for inpatient acute hospitalization and psychiatric residential treatment at all of our treatment centers in Kansas, including Hays.No patients or staff members have tested positive at the Hays facility, Lindenmeyer said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589921837653.jpeg" alt="A driver honks and waves to KVC Hospital staff who were being honored Tuesday for their dedication during the COVID-19 outbreak." />
 <figcaption>A driver honks and waves to KVC Hospital staff who were being honored Tuesday for their dedication during the COVID-19 outbreak.</figcaption>
 </figure>KVC Hospitals have enacted protocols in attempts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said everyone has been open and willing to comply with the protocols, which have included temperature checks for employees as they enter the facility."I think for families they definitely appreciate the extra precautions that we take to know that their child is safe and that we are doing everything we can to keep them safe while here,"&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said.She said the Hays facility has been able to maintain staffing through the shutdown."I have been very impressed with the dedication of our staff has had throughout,"&nbsp;Lindenmeyer said.Those protocols were outlined in a press release issued by KVC on May 6. They are listed below.<h2>KVC Hospitals COVID‐19 protocols</h2>• KVC strongly encourages family involvement throughout the treatment process but as part of its goal to keep its clients safe, it will continue to restrict visitors until further notice. It is utilizing telehealth/video capabilities and phone calls to conduct family therapy and parental/guardian visits.• Given the current challenges with the convergence of flu, cold, and allergy season along with concerns surrounding COVID‐19, KVC has created a workflow to care for clients who have potential symptoms. This includes a specialized observation space to conduct the necessary medical assessments while keeping other clients and employees healthy. • All of the healthcare professionals are entering the KVC treatment centers through the main entrance only and are not using a separate employee entrance. This allows KVC to conduct a thorough daily screening process with each employee, using guidelines from the CDC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. This screening includes temperature checks.• KVC is screening its clients daily using guidelines from the CDC and the KDHE. This screening includes temperature checks twice a day.• New potential clients are undergoing a screening process prior to admission to check for symptoms, fever, and self‐reported history of recent travel or interactions with people who have been diagnosed with COVID‐19.• KVC housekeeping department is using disinfectants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and recommended by the CDC for sanitization of the coronavirus family.• For children receiving treatment in KVC psychiatric residential treatment facilities, KVC will continue to cancel its community outings and weekend passes until further notice to reduce the risk of exposure.• KVC has asked all vendors to leave deliveries outside and to alert us when a delivery has been completed. If a vendor must bring a delivery inside, they are undergoing the same screening process as KVC employees. For contractors who must complete work onsite, they are also undergoing our employee screening process.• KVC will continue to provide extensive education to its employees and clients about COVID‐19 and healthy hygiene habits that prevent spreading.• KVC will continue to cancel volunteer activities, tours and other activities that create opportunities for exposure to COVID‐19 in its treatment centers.• For its PRTFs, each new client is tested for COVID‐19 as part of the admissions process. They will be given a face mask to wear until KVC has the test results to help ensure the safety of all clients in its care.• If a PRTF client tests positive while in KVC care, the child’s treatment team will quickly determine the safest way for the child to continue receiving mental health treatment as well as treatment for COVID‐19. KVC will talk with the child’s family to develop a plan for a safe discharge from the PRTF so the child can return home to receive medical treatment for their COVID‐19 diagnosis. Then once the child is able to leave quarantine per CDC and state health department guidelines, KVC will help the family arrange to have the child return back to KVC to continue their mental health treatment."We value your partnership as we strive to provide the highest quality care and treatment for the children and families we serve,"&nbsp; Ryan Speier,&nbsp;KVC Hospitals&nbsp;president said in the news release. "We will continue having frequent, open communications with all of our community providers so that together, we can help keep children and families safe and healthy throughout these challenging times."

🎥 KVC Hospital honors essential workers with car caravans

&nbsp;To the citizens of Ellis County, I would like to spend a few moments introducing myself as I announce I will be running for re-election as your Treasurer on August 4. My professional background includes several years of work experience in Higher Education, physical fitness, the banking industry, and more. During my undergraduate education, I was in the top 2% of students at FHSU in the College of Business and Leadership, and was nominated for the Torch Award when I graduated. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Leadership Studies, and I earned my Master’s degree from KU, where I graduated with Honors in 2011.

After earning my degrees and learning more about the world through full-time work and travel, I became certain I wanted to make my home in Kansas. My hobbies include spending time with my family and pets, and doing physical fitness, hiking, and gardening. Having grown up in Ellis County, a farmer’s daughter, I feel a great affinity for the people and the environs of Kansas. I was born in this place for a reason, and I want to stay here to contribute my efforts and talents to Ellis County, the place my family has called home since my ancestors came to the U.S. in the late 1800s.&nbsp; I have spent 17 years of my professional working life in Kansas, and feel compelled to make my work benefit every single citizen of this county. I like to serve the community with my work.&nbsp;

We are at a time in history that is especially poignant regarding taking our individual power and duty to weigh-in as citizens on how our cities, counties, and nations run. If we do not take up the yoke of civic duty, our great democracy will fail and fail fast. Our city, county, and nation need to pick leaders with integrity and courage to make tough decisions, as we move thoughtfully onward.&nbsp; We as citizens need to take the time and effort to watch, learn, and get engaged in the democratic process.&nbsp;

I have said this all before, and it is even more true today.&nbsp; Since you elected me in 2016, I have brought the Treasury unprecedented success both economically and managerially. As I have outlined in my semi-annual newsletters, I have implemented new collection practices, negotiated strong investment and procurement contracts, and tidied-up the budget to match my frugal nature, while still getting even more things done and done better. It has been a record-setting performance for a 4-year term as Treasurer.&nbsp;

Back when I joined the county, I focused on how I could bring all kinds of new practices (as I have done, but I also mentioned working in spirit of togetherness with other county officials to strengthen and unite our county. The thing about togetherness, is it has to be desired by two or more people in a group. I cannot enter the county and say I want to get along and cooperate, and be pressured to capitulate for several years, and when I do not capitulate to keeping failures or corruption hush-hush, and instead choose to calmly and consciously bring things to the table to discuss, be attacked, slandered, and shunned by other people in power to keep me quiet.&nbsp;

Togetherness takes multiple willing people. The thing is, even with the political pressure since 2017, I have still managed to share what I felt needed to be shared with Ellis County citizens; I have still managed to bring prosperity to the treasury, and effective management of staff, and I have still maintained a civil and respectful atmosphere to other county elected officials with my conduct. Just because they refuse to respect the office of Treasurer does not mean I will lose my integrity. The Treasury is still operating as good as it ever has, even with all the drama directed at us by current commissioners.&nbsp;

My independent judgement is what makes me the Treasurer you want. You do not want further nepotism in one of the three others running for my position who are two spouses and one parent of current county employees. I will not give up hope or silence my voice to protect special interests. I will cooperate, but I will not capitulate or pretend the Treasurer’s office is subject to the Commission. We are equal on the hierarchy of Counties.

As your incumbent, I understand the Kansas statutes as they apply to the taxation process. I know how to interface effectively with other government officials and taxpayers, as well as manage a staff of various specialists, while working to implement statutes in a way that advocates for constituents.&nbsp; My leadership degree taught me how to keep an eye on the big picture while attending to the details and providing training in effective interaction with all sectors of the community.

I will not give up on my vision for this county. It has grown me as a person to work for you as Treasurer, and it has greatly prospered your Treasury, having me managing the staff and the monies of Ellis County. Let’s make it a win-win, and pick me again in 2020. Since I have primary opponents, if you want me to be your Treasurer you must vote on AUGUST 4. You will then have to vote again on November 3 as well. If you pick me, you can count on me to perform the duties of Treasurer with excellence and integrity, as I have for the past several years. You can count on me to tell you about what matters, and trust that I will not waste your time with trivial matters, but will inform you of what I know is truly important and worth citizens being aware of.&nbsp;

Lisa Schlegel, Ellis County Treasurer&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584719419709.png" alt="Ellis County Treasurer Lisa Schlegel" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Treasurer Lisa Schlegel</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;To the citizens of Ellis County, I would like to spend a few moments introducing myself as I announce I will be running for re-election as your Treasurer on August 4. My professional background includes several years of work experience in Higher Education, physical fitness, the banking industry, and more. During my undergraduate education, I was in the top 2% of students at FHSU in the College of Business and Leadership, and was nominated for the Torch Award when I graduated. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Leadership Studies, and I earned my Master’s degree from KU, where I graduated with Honors in 2011.After earning my degrees and learning more about the world through full-time work and travel, I became certain I wanted to make my home in Kansas. My hobbies include spending time with my family and pets, and doing physical fitness, hiking, and gardening. Having grown up in Ellis County, a farmer’s daughter, I feel a great affinity for the people and the environs of Kansas. I was born in this place for a reason, and I want to stay here to contribute my efforts and talents to Ellis County, the place my family has called home since my ancestors came to the U.S. in the late 1800s.&nbsp; I have spent 17 years of my professional working life in Kansas, and feel compelled to make my work benefit every single citizen of this county. I like to serve the community with my work.&nbsp;We are at a time in history that is especially poignant regarding taking our individual power and duty to weigh-in as citizens on how our cities, counties, and nations run. If we do not take up the yoke of civic duty, our great democracy will fail and fail fast. Our city, county, and nation need to pick leaders with integrity and courage to make tough decisions, as we move thoughtfully onward.&nbsp; We as citizens need to take the time and effort to watch, learn, and get engaged in the democratic process.&nbsp;I have said this all before, and it is even more true today.&nbsp; Since you elected me in 2016, I have brought the Treasury unprecedented success both economically and managerially. As I have outlined in my semi-annual newsletters, I have implemented new collection practices, negotiated strong investment and procurement contracts, and tidied-up the budget to match my frugal nature, while still getting even more things done and done better. It has been a record-setting performance for a 4-year term as Treasurer.&nbsp;Back when I joined the county, I focused on how I could bring all kinds of new practices (as I have done, but I also mentioned working in spirit of togetherness with other county officials to strengthen and unite our county. The thing about togetherness, is it has to be desired by two or more people in a group. I cannot enter the county and say I want to get along and cooperate, and be pressured to capitulate for several years, and when I do not capitulate to keeping failures or corruption hush-hush, and instead choose to calmly and consciously bring things to the table to discuss, be attacked, slandered, and shunned by other people in power to keep me quiet.&nbsp;Togetherness takes multiple willing people. The thing is, even with the political pressure since 2017, I have still managed to share what I felt needed to be shared with Ellis County citizens; I have still managed to bring prosperity to the treasury, and effective management of staff, and I have still maintained a civil and respectful atmosphere to other county elected officials with my conduct. Just because they refuse to respect the office of Treasurer does not mean I will lose my integrity. The Treasury is still operating as good as it ever has, even with all the drama directed at us by current commissioners.&nbsp;My independent judgement is what makes me the Treasurer you want. You do not want further nepotism in one of the three others running for my position who are two spouses and one parent of current county employees. I will not give up hope or silence my voice to protect special interests. I will cooperate, but I will not capitulate or pretend the Treasurer’s office is subject to the Commission. We are equal on the hierarchy of Counties.As your incumbent, I understand the Kansas statutes as they apply to the taxation process. I know how to interface effectively with other government officials and taxpayers, as well as manage a staff of various specialists, while working to implement statutes in a way that advocates for constituents.&nbsp; My leadership degree taught me how to keep an eye on the big picture while attending to the details and providing training in effective interaction with all sectors of the community.I will not give up on my vision for this county. It has grown me as a person to work for you as Treasurer, and it has greatly prospered your Treasury, having me managing the staff and the monies of Ellis County. Let’s make it a win-win, and pick me again in 2020. Since I have primary opponents, if you want me to be your Treasurer you must vote on AUGUST 4. You will then have to vote again on November 3 as well. If you pick me, you can count on me to perform the duties of Treasurer with excellence and integrity, as I have for the past several years. You can count on me to tell you about what matters, and trust that I will not waste your time with trivial matters, but will inform you of what I know is truly important and worth citizens being aware of.&nbsp;Lisa Schlegel, Ellis County Treasurer&nbsp;

LETTER: Schlegel will seek second term as Ellis Co. treasurer

ELLIS — The principals of the Ellis schools reported to the school board last week about the results of continuous learning this spring.

They were mixed with some students excelling in the format and others struggling, the administrators said.

"We just got done with the continuous learning plan. I could lie and say that everything went wonderful and the teachers loved it and kids loved it, but it was a trying time," said John Befort, Washington Grade School principal.

"We knew we would have those kids that would just jump right in and do it, and we would have those kids that struggled because of the social piece of it," Befort said.&nbsp;

He continued, "Some of the kids that struggled in the classroom excelled this way, and kids that excelled in the classroom struggled with this piece because they didn't have that social interaction with the kids."

Befort said most students did their assignments. Teachers reached out to those who were not getting work in, Befort said.

"I think they are all glad this is over, and hopefully we don't have to be in this in August," he said.

Teachers,&nbsp; parents and students communicated through the school's learning platform, Seesaw, Befort said.

He said many parents with whom he visited said they struggled with at-home learning.

"I think there is a newfound understanding of what is included in education and what those parents have to deal with," Befort said. 

"At the elementary, most of those students get their work done in class, so they don't have a lot to do when they go home," he said, "but here it was students needing their parents' help to get some of that work done. I think they got a little overwhelmed and realized what is actually done in the buildings."

Superintendent Corey Burton thanked the district's teachers and parents for all the work they put in during the continuous learning portion of the school year.

Board member Jared Schiel asked the principals what the district could do to make the process better if continuous learning would have to continue in the fall.

Befort said the staff had discussed streamlining the district's communication platforms so they are all on one linked system.

The state is working to establish competencies for each grade level, which would give teachers more guidance if they would have to go back to continuous learning, Burton said.

"At elementary, it relies on that parent help," Befort said. "If we don't get that parent assistance, it is really difficult. That was one of the conversations we had with staff when that all started. 

"We know we have those students who struggle in the classroom so when they go home, you may miss out and may have that parent who may not understand or struggle themselves."

Donna Schmidt, Ellis High School/Junior High School principal, also said the school is looking at moving to one learning management system.

She said some students struggled to keep track of multiple logins and passwords.

"Just like the elementary has done, we've learned from it," she said. "Sometimes it has been easy learning from it. There has definitely been some growing pains. 

"We had to make some shifts midstream after the first week after we realized what we thought would take students a half an hour was really taking them a lot longer."

Some students did well when they were given a week's worth of work,&nbsp; and other students needed their work divided per day.

"We are learning a lot about how our students learn and what skills they have," Schmidt said, "and what skills they don't have. And I am sure we will have some conversations in the fall on how we can help them develop those skills. 

"That time management piece is really something that everybody needs to have in their lives."

Students also tended to better comprehend instructions that were in bullet form as opposed to paragraph form, Schmidt said.

Board member Cindy Hertel asked if the district was planning to change its eligibility standards in light of continuous learning. Schmidt said the same students who were ineligible before continuous learning were ineligible after continuous learning.

Schmidt added, "I hope it helped us all realize how much we miss students being here in the building and how much they miss being here as well. There is so much more to school than the academic piece."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579030633433.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostELLIS — The principals of the Ellis schools reported to the school board last week about the results of continuous learning this spring.They were mixed with some students excelling in the format and others struggling, the administrators said."We just got done with the continuous learning plan. I could lie and say that everything went wonderful and the teachers loved it and kids loved it, but it was a trying time," said John Befort, Washington Grade School principal."We knew we would have those kids that would just jump right in and do it, and we would have those kids that struggled because of the social piece of it," Befort said.&nbsp;He continued, "Some of the kids that struggled in the classroom excelled this way, and kids that excelled in the classroom struggled with this piece because they didn't have that social interaction with the kids."Befort said most students did their assignments. Teachers reached out to those who were not getting work in, Befort said."I think they are all glad this is over, and hopefully we don't have to be in this in August," he said.Teachers,&nbsp; parents and students communicated through the school's learning platform, Seesaw, Befort said.He said many parents with whom he visited said they struggled with at-home learning."I think there is a newfound understanding of what is included in education and what those parents have to deal with," Befort said. "At the elementary, most of those students get their work done in class, so they don't have a lot to do when they go home," he said, "but here it was students needing their parents' help to get some of that work done. I think they got a little overwhelmed and realized what is actually done in the buildings."Superintendent Corey Burton thanked the district's teachers and parents for all the work they put in during the continuous learning portion of the school year.Board member Jared Schiel asked the principals what the district could do to make the process better if continuous learning would have to continue in the fall.Befort said the staff had discussed streamlining the district's communication platforms so they are all on one linked system.The state is working to establish competencies for each grade level, which would give teachers more guidance if they would have to go back to continuous learning, Burton said."At elementary, it relies on that parent help," Befort said. "If we don't get that parent assistance, it is really difficult. That was one of the conversations we had with staff when that all started. "We know we have those students who struggle in the classroom so when they go home, you may miss out and may have that parent who may not understand or struggle themselves."Donna Schmidt, Ellis High School/Junior High School principal, also said the school is looking at moving to one learning management system.She said some students struggled to keep track of multiple logins and passwords."Just like the elementary has done, we've learned from it," she said. "Sometimes it has been easy learning from it. There has definitely been some growing pains. "We had to make some shifts midstream after the first week after we realized what we thought would take students a half an hour was really taking them a lot longer."Some students did well when they were given a week's worth of work,&nbsp; and other students needed their work divided per day."We are learning a lot about how our students learn and what skills they have," Schmidt said, "and what skills they don't have. And I am sure we will have some conversations in the fall on how we can help them develop those skills. "That time management piece is really something that everybody needs to have in their lives."Students also tended to better comprehend instructions that were in bullet form as opposed to paragraph form, Schmidt said.Board member Cindy Hertel asked if the district was planning to change its eligibility standards in light of continuous learning. Schmidt said the same students who were ineligible before continuous learning were ineligible after continuous learning.Schmidt added, "I hope it helped us all realize how much we miss students being here in the building and how much they miss being here as well. There is so much more to school than the academic piece."

Ellis staff: Continuous learning challenge for parents, students

LENORA —&nbsp;Nex-Tech this week announced the recipients of the Nex-Tech “Break the Rules” Scholarship.&nbsp;

“Unlike most scholarship programs, this one allows high school seniors to send us any type of entry that depicts what they are most passionate about and how that has led to their chosen career path,” said Jacque Beckman, Nex-Tech’s Youth Services/Training Specialist. “We have received everything from essays to photos in framed collages to YouTube videos and PowerPoints. Our area students are very talented, and this allows them a non-traditional way to showcase their strengths and passions.” 

Many creative and well-thought-out entries were received, and Nex-Tech wishes every student success as they embark on their future education and career path.&nbsp; The following 10 students will each receive a $1,000 award for excellence in showcasing their passion and describing how it led to their chosen career.

Carson Ackerman&nbsp;is the son of Jeff and Kelly Ackerman of Hays.&nbsp; He is a student in Hays High School and plans to attend Kansas State University, where he will pursue an education in Sportscasting/Broadcast Journalism.

Madison Gottstine&nbsp;is the daughter of Phil and Janet Gottstine of Logan.&nbsp; She is a student at Logan High School.&nbsp; Madison will attend Fort Hays State University to study Elementary Music Education.

Camryn Greving&nbsp;is the daughter of Colby and Cher Greving of Prairie View.&nbsp; She attends Logan High School.&nbsp; Camryn will study Healthcare at Fort Hays State University, majoring in Health and Human Performance with an emphasis on sports and exercise, then continuing her education to become a Physician’s Assistant.

Connor Haresnape&nbsp;is the son of Michael and Wendy Haresnape of Norton.&nbsp; He is a student at Norton Community High School and will attend Newman University to study Human Health Sciences and Biology, as he works towards his goal of becoming a Physical Therapist.

Reanna Harman&nbsp;is the daughter of Dusty and Rachel Harman of Hays.&nbsp; She is a student at Hays High School and will attend Fort Hays State University, majoring in Biology (pre-dentistry).&nbsp; Reanna aspires to become a Dentist.

Patrick Heath&nbsp;is the son of Dan Heath and Kim Heath of Great Bend.&nbsp; He attends Great Bend High School.&nbsp; Patrick plans to study Graphic Design at Wichita State University.&nbsp;

Hayley Keller&nbsp;is the daughter of Myron and Rachel Keller of Palco.&nbsp; She is a student at Palco High School and will attend Wichita State University.&nbsp; Hayley plans to major in Political Science and minor in Communications.

Caitlin Kuhl&nbsp;is the daughter of Stephen and Sara Kuhl of Hays.&nbsp; Caitlin attended Hays High School for two years and was then accepted into the Kansas Academy of Math and Science program at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; She will attend the University of Kansas majoring in Aerospace Engineering.

Delaney Maier&nbsp;is the daughter of David and Rhiannon Maier of Hays.&nbsp; She is a student at Hays High School and plans to attend NCK Tech in Hays to study Nursing.

Tyrell McKeon&nbsp;is the son of Shawn and Rita McKeon of Osborne.&nbsp; He is a student at Osborne High School and will attend Colby Community College for Veterinary Medicine.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578604883047.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLENORA —&nbsp;Nex-Tech this week announced the recipients of the Nex-Tech “Break the Rules” Scholarship.&nbsp; “Unlike most scholarship programs, this one allows high school seniors to send us any type of entry that depicts what they are most passionate about and how that has led to their chosen career path,” said Jacque Beckman, Nex-Tech’s Youth Services/Training Specialist. “We have received everything from essays to photos in framed collages to YouTube videos and PowerPoints. Our area students are very talented, and this allows them a non-traditional way to showcase their strengths and passions.” Many creative and well-thought-out entries were received, and Nex-Tech wishes every student success as they embark on their future education and career path.&nbsp; The following 10 students will each receive a $1,000 award for excellence in showcasing their passion and describing how it led to their chosen career.Carson Ackerman&nbsp;is the son of Jeff and Kelly Ackerman of Hays.&nbsp; He is a student in Hays High School and plans to attend Kansas State University, where he will pursue an education in Sportscasting/Broadcast Journalism.Madison Gottstine&nbsp;is the daughter of Phil and Janet Gottstine of Logan.&nbsp; She is a student at Logan High School.&nbsp; Madison will attend Fort Hays State University to study Elementary Music Education.Camryn Greving&nbsp;is the daughter of Colby and Cher Greving of Prairie View.&nbsp; She attends Logan High School.&nbsp; Camryn will study Healthcare at Fort Hays State University, majoring in Health and Human Performance with an emphasis on sports and exercise, then continuing her education to become a Physician’s Assistant.Connor Haresnape&nbsp;is the son of Michael and Wendy Haresnape of Norton.&nbsp; He is a student at Norton Community High School and will attend Newman University to study Human Health Sciences and Biology, as he works towards his goal of becoming a Physical Therapist.Reanna Harman&nbsp;is the daughter of Dusty and Rachel Harman of Hays.&nbsp; She is a student at Hays High School and will attend Fort Hays State University, majoring in Biology (pre-dentistry).&nbsp; Reanna aspires to become a Dentist.Patrick Heath&nbsp;is the son of Dan Heath and Kim Heath of Great Bend.&nbsp; He attends Great Bend High School.&nbsp; Patrick plans to study Graphic Design at Wichita State University.&nbsp;Hayley Keller&nbsp;is the daughter of Myron and Rachel Keller of Palco.&nbsp; She is a student at Palco High School and will attend Wichita State University.&nbsp; Hayley plans to major in Political Science and minor in Communications.Caitlin Kuhl&nbsp;is the daughter of Stephen and Sara Kuhl of Hays.&nbsp; Caitlin attended Hays High School for two years and was then accepted into the Kansas Academy of Math and Science program at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; She will attend the University of Kansas majoring in Aerospace Engineering.Delaney Maier&nbsp;is the daughter of David and Rhiannon Maier of Hays.&nbsp; She is a student at Hays High School and plans to attend NCK Tech in Hays to study Nursing.Tyrell McKeon&nbsp;is the son of Shawn and Rita McKeon of Osborne.&nbsp; He is a student at Osborne High School and will attend Colby Community College for Veterinary Medicine.

Nex-Tech announces 2020 scholarship recipients

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/-A7O3kk4QEo"></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: Kathy Dinkel, Liberty Foursquare

Three-day weather outlook

I have had several calls in the last few days of loose smut in wheat. It is not uncommon to find low levels of loose smut in wheat fields, and the symptoms will be obvious by this time of year.

It is easy to pick out plants with loose smut in a field. The spikelets of infected heads are completely black and sooty instead of the normal, healthy color. There is no grain. Instead, infected heads consist entirely of a mass of fungal spores.

Loose smut is a seedborne disease that is caused by the fungus Ustilago tritici. The fungus that causes loose smut survives as dormant mycelia within the embryo of an infected wheat seed. When the seed germinates, the fungus becomes active again. The fungus develops within the growing point and moves into the developing grain tissue as the wheat plants grow.

When the head emerges, there are masses of black spores on the spikelets instead of flowering parts. By harvest only an erect bare rachis remains. The spores are released into the air and can be blown onto healthy wheat heads were infection takes place at flowering or the early stages of kernel development. If the infection is successful, the fungus begins to grow within the developing wheat seed embryo.

Newly infected grain appears healthy in every way, but when it germinates the following season, the plant that grows from the infected seed will produce nothing but a dark mass of spores instead of healthy grain. The yield loss on infected heads is total. On a field-wide basis, the amount of yield loss is proportional to the percentage of infected heads.

Cool (60-70 degrees F, humid weather accompanied by light showers or heavy dews is most favorable for infection. Under favorable weather conditions, the wheat produced from a field with only one percent of the heads infected, can have seed with 10 percent or more infection of loose smut.

Once loose smut becomes evident in the field, it is far too late to control the disease. The best option at that point is seed treatment. If producers have a field that is infected with loose smut and plan to keep some of the grain back for seed, they should be sure to have the seed commercially treated with a systemic fungicide seed treatment such as Gaucho XT, Vibrance Extreme, and Stamina F3 Cereals. These fungicides provide excellent control of loose smut, but good coverage of the seed is very important to ensure that the maximum benefit of the treatment is realized.

Another option is to sell all the wheat from the infected field as grain and buy certified seed to plant in the fall. Certified seed in Kansas is allowed to have as much as 10 heads in 1,000 (or 1 percent) that are infected with loose smut. There is no requirement that this seed be treated in order to qualify as certified seed by the Kansas Crop Improvement Association, but it would be a good idea to buy treated seed. The cost of having seed treated with a standard low-rate fungicide seed treatment for loose smut is relatively low. Costs are higher if the seed treatment also includes an insecticide.

There are no varieties that are highly resistant to all races of loose smut.

Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589563013343.png" alt="Loose smut in wheat. Photo by Erick DeWolf, K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Loose smut in wheat. Photo by Erick DeWolf, K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>I have had several calls in the last few days of loose smut in wheat. It is not uncommon to find low levels of loose smut in wheat fields, and the symptoms will be obvious by this time of year.It is easy to pick out plants with loose smut in a field. The spikelets of infected heads are completely black and sooty instead of the normal, healthy color. There is no grain. Instead, infected heads consist entirely of a mass of fungal spores.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578070143255.png" alt="Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Loose smut is a seedborne disease that is caused by the fungus Ustilago tritici. The fungus that causes loose smut survives as dormant mycelia within the embryo of an infected wheat seed. When the seed germinates, the fungus becomes active again. The fungus develops within the growing point and moves into the developing grain tissue as the wheat plants grow.When the head emerges, there are masses of black spores on the spikelets instead of flowering parts. By harvest only an erect bare rachis remains. The spores are released into the air and can be blown onto healthy wheat heads were infection takes place at flowering or the early stages of kernel development. If the infection is successful, the fungus begins to grow within the developing wheat seed embryo.Newly infected grain appears healthy in every way, but when it germinates the following season, the plant that grows from the infected seed will produce nothing but a dark mass of spores instead of healthy grain. The yield loss on infected heads is total. On a field-wide basis, the amount of yield loss is proportional to the percentage of infected heads.Cool (60-70 degrees F, humid weather accompanied by light showers or heavy dews is most favorable for infection. Under favorable weather conditions, the wheat produced from a field with only one percent of the heads infected, can have seed with 10 percent or more infection of loose smut.Once loose smut becomes evident in the field, it is far too late to control the disease. The best option at that point is seed treatment. If producers have a field that is infected with loose smut and plan to keep some of the grain back for seed, they should be sure to have the seed commercially treated with a systemic fungicide seed treatment such as Gaucho XT, Vibrance Extreme, and Stamina F3 Cereals. These fungicides provide excellent control of loose smut, but good coverage of the seed is very important to ensure that the maximum benefit of the treatment is realized.Another option is to sell all the wheat from the infected field as grain and buy certified seed to plant in the fall. Certified seed in Kansas is allowed to have as much as 10 heads in 1,000 (or 1 percent) that are infected with loose smut. There is no requirement that this seed be treated in order to qualify as certified seed by the Kansas Crop Improvement Association, but it would be a good idea to buy treated seed. The cost of having seed treated with a standard low-rate fungicide seed treatment for loose smut is relatively low. Costs are higher if the seed treatment also includes an insecticide.There are no varieties that are highly resistant to all races of loose smut.Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Loose smut in wheat – causes and treatments

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

“We live in unprecedented times and need to take unprecedented measures.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this in the last two or three months. I know it is true, but I sure would like to go back to life before Covid-19. I know it’s wishful thinking, and soon we will be back to the new normal, whatever that will be. However, in the meantime things sure are unsettled.

We see that unease in agriculture too, and it worries me. One good thing is I think we have the general public’s attention.  There are some cracks in our food supply chain and consumers realize that agriculture cannot be taken for granted. That is good. We can do some good when it comes to the public’s awareness of where food on grocery store shelves comes from. But only if we do it in the right way.

We must think our actions through. If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that actions this minute can cause unintended consequences.

English writer G. K. Chesterton summed up the desire to make such changes in 1929 when he wrote, “There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.”

In short, fences don’t build themselves, and people generally don’t spend their time, energy and capital building a fence which has no purpose. Before you change something, you need to understand the reason it was put in place.

That is why I am proud to be part of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are an organization that is grounded in grassroots activism, and we represent all of agriculture. Just by our very nature we are not prone to falling for the issue of the day and a knee jerk reaction. At times it might be frustrating that our reaction time is slowed by the need to gauge the members and develop policy. However, in the end it helps us to think the issues through and make sound decisions.

It is my opinion that Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau will help lead us through this unprecedented time because we represent all farmers and ranchers and we work to be a unified voice. We have the attention of the consumer, and it is important we work in a coordinated effort to make them understand the importance of a strong and resilient food production system. We cannot be using up political capital we are gaining by fighting amongst ourselves.

I agree there are issues that have been highlighted by this crisis and they need to be discussed, but  now is not the time for those discussions. Right now, the fence in the road is how food makes its way from farms and ranches across the country to forks at dining room tables around the globe. This crisis has certainly highlighted some of the challenges on that route, but it’s also given us an opportunity.

I ask that each of us make the effort to share the story of how we are #stillfarming to provide the food to feed a hungry world. This is our time and our opportunity to make an impact; let’s make the most of it.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574091484634.jpeg" alt="Glenn-Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn-Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher“We live in unprecedented times and need to take unprecedented measures.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this in the last two or three months. I know it is true, but I sure would like to go back to life before Covid-19. I know it’s wishful thinking, and soon we will be back to the new normal, whatever that will be. However, in the meantime things sure are unsettled.We see that unease in agriculture too, and it worries me. One good thing is I think we have the general public’s attention. There are some cracks in our food supply chain and consumers realize that agriculture cannot be taken for granted. That is good. We can do some good when it comes to the public’s awareness of where food on grocery store shelves comes from. But only if we do it in the right way.We must think our actions through. If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that actions this minute can cause unintended consequences.English writer G. K. Chesterton summed up the desire to make such changes in 1929 when he wrote, “There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.”In short, fences don’t build themselves, and people generally don’t spend their time, energy and capital building a fence which has no purpose. Before you change something, you need to understand the reason it was put in place.That is why I am proud to be part of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are an organization that is grounded in grassroots activism, and we represent all of agriculture. Just by our very nature we are not prone to falling for the issue of the day and a knee jerk reaction. At times it might be frustrating that our reaction time is slowed by the need to gauge the members and develop policy. However, in the end it helps us to think the issues through and make sound decisions.It is my opinion that Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau will help lead us through this unprecedented time because we represent all farmers and ranchers and we work to be a unified voice. We have the attention of the consumer, and it is important we work in a coordinated effort to make them understand the importance of a strong and resilient food production system. We cannot be using up political capital we are gaining by fighting amongst ourselves.I agree there are issues that have been highlighted by this crisis and they need to be discussed, but now is not the time for those discussions. Right now, the fence in the road is how food makes its way from farms and ranches across the country to forks at dining room tables around the globe. This crisis has certainly highlighted some of the challenges on that route, but it’s also given us an opportunity.I ask that each of us make the effort to share the story of how we are #stillfarming to provide the food to feed a hungry world. This is our time and our opportunity to make an impact; let’s make the most of it."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: The slow, steady course

The
Hays Board of Education approved the hiring of Len Melvin as the new Hays High
girls’ basketball coach at their meeting Monday night. 

Melvin previously coached girls basketball at Hays Middle School from 2016-2018. During the time the team collected a 82-12 record. He also was the middle school boys coach (Felten Middle School) which had just an 8th grade team which was divided into three teams. The "A" team went 81-15 during those years. The 2003-2004 squads went a combined 45-0.&nbsp;

Melvin also spent time as a high school assistant for boys basketball, football, softball and golf for a total of 16 seasons.&nbsp;

Melvin replaces Kyle Porter who resigned after one season
to take the head coaching job at Silver Lake.

Melvin becomes Hays High's fourth head girls' coach in four years.

The
Hays Board of Education approved the hiring of Len Melvin as the new Hays High
girls’ basketball coach at their meeting Monday night. Melvin previously coached girls basketball at Hays Middle School from 2016-2018. During the time the team collected a 82-12 record. He also was the middle school boys coach (Felten Middle School) which had just an 8th grade team which was divided into three teams. The "A" team went 81-15 during those years. The 2003-2004 squads went a combined 45-0.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/824203018&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe></div>Melvin also spent time as a high school assistant for boys basketball, football, softball and golf for a total of 16 seasons.&nbsp;Melvin replaces Kyle Porter who resigned after one season
to take the head coaching job at Silver Lake.Melvin becomes Hays High's fourth head girls' coach in four years.

Melvin hopes to bring stability to HHS girls' basketball

In response to a request made by the City of Hays, the Kansas 
Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has issued a 
control order restricting the watering of lawns and other vegetation 
from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through 
Sept. 30.

This measure is part of a greater interest to 
reduce water waste and to improve conservation practices in the 
Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area located in Hays.

The
 IGUCA in Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the city to 
help implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.

Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: the washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways; the known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems; and the escape of water 
from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the
 street guttering from landscape irrigation; in addition to outdoor 
water use between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through Sept.
 30.

By restricting daytime outdoor water use, including the
 watering of landscapes and gardens, unnecessary water loss due to wind 
and evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving the resource for more 
efficient use.

All citizens are encouraged to practice the 
conservation of natural resources, including water, and look for ways to
 improve conservation measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors
 and out.

Photo by Jordan Hopkins on Unsplash

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589921529658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysIn response to a request made by the City of Hays, the Kansas 
Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has issued a 
control order restricting the watering of lawns and other vegetation 
from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through 
Sept. 30.This measure is part of a greater interest to 
reduce water waste and to improve conservation practices in the 
Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area located in Hays.The
 IGUCA in Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the city to 
help implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: the washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways; the known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems; and the escape of water 
from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the
 street guttering from landscape irrigation; in addition to outdoor 
water use between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through Sept.
 30.By restricting daytime outdoor water use, including the
 watering of landscapes and gardens, unnecessary water loss due to wind 
and evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving the resource for more 
efficient use.All citizens are encouraged to practice the 
conservation of natural resources, including water, and look for ways to
 improve conservation measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors
 and out.Photo by Jordan Hopkins on Unsplash

City of Hays water restrictions set to begin

Rylee Staab, Holcomb, Jordan Sparrow-Antonio, Brighton, Colo., and Jenny Niblock, Colby, have been named the outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Fort Hays State University for 2020.&nbsp;

Staab, a senior, is a double major in psychology and criminal justice. Sparrow-Antonio is completing a Master of Science in psychology (experimental, and Niblock, chief clinical officer for Citizens Health, Colby, is completing a Doctor of Nursing Practice.&nbsp;

Dr. Qiang Li, assistant professor or communication sciences and disorders, Drew Gannon, instructor of health and human performance, and Rebecca Karlin, instructor of allied health, received the outstanding faculty awards.&nbsp;

The awards were announced in a ceremony via Zoom on May 15.&nbsp;

Staab, named the Outstanding Undergraduate student, “is an exemplar of student excellence,” said Dr. Jeff Briggs, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, summarizing and quoting from letters of support for the honorees.&nbsp;

“For the past three years, Rylee has been a true force of research productivity within the realm of undergraduate research,” said Briggs. “She has conducted numerous studies, has presented at regional conferences at an impressive rate and is in the process of publishing a number of her studies.”&nbsp;

Sparrow-Antonio “is not only a strong student academically but is also one of the top-performing graduate students I have had the pleasure of supervising at FHSU,” said Briggs, quoting one letter of support.&nbsp;

“She has provided a great deal of leadership for fellow graduate and undergraduate students in research,” said Briggs. “She also was elected by the Southwestern Psychological Association to serve as graduate student representative.”&nbsp;

Niblock, “a role model in rural health care,” said Briggs, as chief clinical officer for Citizens Health, oversees all patient care areas for Citizens Medical Center in Colby. She also works as a nurse practitioner in hospice.&nbsp;

Briggs said hospice care is “truly her passion, as she feels strongly about end-of-life care.”&nbsp;

“This passion led to her DNP research project regarding advanced directives,” said Briggs. “In addition to multiple professional presentations, most recently, Jenny was selected to be one of the five Fort Hays State University graduate students to present at the Capitol Graduate Research Summit in Topeka.”&nbsp;

Briggs also cited Niblock for her service to the community, including service on the Kansas Hospital Association Policy Committee, the Kansas Palliative Care Advisory Council, and the Colby Community College Health Science Advisory Board.&nbsp;

Li received the Dr. Virgil and Virginia Howe Faculty Excellence Award for outstanding research and scholarship award.&nbsp;

Briggs said Li, only in his second year at FHSU, has developed an undergraduate research course, supervised undergraduate research experiences and has his own graduate research team.&nbsp;

“Through these activities, he has demonstrated his contribution to original research, and this is recognized at the national level through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association,” said Briggs.&nbsp;

Gannon, who is director of the university’s Tiger Wellness center as well as an instructor, received the Howe Award for outstanding service. Briggs said he is “an exemplar of service” who participates in and coordinates “numerous programs.”&nbsp;

A colleague who was quoted by Briggs said, “I have been thoroughly impressed with his professionalism and his work ethic. &nbsp;In all that he does, including his service, Drew is a role model for our students at FHSU, I believe that he makes a difference in our department, college, and community.”&nbsp;

Karlin, in the college’s sonography program, was given the Howe Teaching Grant Award for her work in winning a grant to obtain an ergonomic imaging table for general, vascular and cardiac imaging. The table will be used by all students in sonography programs at FHSU.&nbsp;

The table will accommodate individual students and patients with height adjustments and body dispositions.&nbsp;

“As the department strives to offer a laboratory experience to best simulate a true clinical environment, it is also important that we provide the opportunity for correct ergonomic practices to help these behaviors become a habit early in their career,” said Briggs.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589914743521.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsRylee Staab, Holcomb, Jordan Sparrow-Antonio, Brighton, Colo., and Jenny Niblock, Colby, have been named the outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Fort Hays State University for 2020.&nbsp;Staab, a senior, is a double major in psychology and criminal justice. Sparrow-Antonio is completing a Master of Science in psychology (experimental, and Niblock, chief clinical officer for Citizens Health, Colby, is completing a Doctor of Nursing Practice.&nbsp;Dr. Qiang Li, assistant professor or communication sciences and disorders, Drew Gannon, instructor of health and human performance, and Rebecca Karlin, instructor of allied health, received the outstanding faculty awards.&nbsp;The awards were announced in a ceremony via Zoom on May 15.&nbsp;Staab, named the Outstanding Undergraduate student, “is an exemplar of student excellence,” said Dr. Jeff Briggs, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, summarizing and quoting from letters of support for the honorees.&nbsp;“For the past three years, Rylee has been a true force of research productivity within the realm of undergraduate research,” said Briggs. “She has conducted numerous studies, has presented at regional conferences at an impressive rate and is in the process of publishing a number of her studies.”&nbsp;Sparrow-Antonio “is not only a strong student academically but is also one of the top-performing graduate students I have had the pleasure of supervising at FHSU,” said Briggs, quoting one letter of support.&nbsp;“She has provided a great deal of leadership for fellow graduate and undergraduate students in research,” said Briggs. “She also was elected by the Southwestern Psychological Association to serve as graduate student representative.”&nbsp;Niblock, “a role model in rural health care,” said Briggs, as chief clinical officer for Citizens Health, oversees all patient care areas for Citizens Medical Center in Colby. She also works as a nurse practitioner in hospice.&nbsp;Briggs said hospice care is “truly her passion, as she feels strongly about end-of-life care.”&nbsp;“This passion led to her DNP research project regarding advanced directives,” said Briggs. “In addition to multiple professional presentations, most recently, Jenny was selected to be one of the five Fort Hays State University graduate students to present at the Capitol Graduate Research Summit in Topeka.”&nbsp;Briggs also cited Niblock for her service to the community, including service on the Kansas Hospital Association Policy Committee, the Kansas Palliative Care Advisory Council, and the Colby Community College Health Science Advisory Board.&nbsp;Li received the Dr. Virgil and Virginia Howe Faculty Excellence Award for outstanding research and scholarship award.&nbsp;Briggs said Li, only in his second year at FHSU, has developed an undergraduate research course, supervised undergraduate research experiences and has his own graduate research team.&nbsp;“Through these activities, he has demonstrated his contribution to original research, and this is recognized at the national level through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association,” said Briggs.&nbsp;Gannon, who is director of the university’s Tiger Wellness center as well as an instructor, received the Howe Award for outstanding service. Briggs said he is “an exemplar of service” who participates in and coordinates “numerous programs.”&nbsp;A colleague who was quoted by Briggs said, “I have been thoroughly impressed with his professionalism and his work ethic. &nbsp;In all that he does, including his service, Drew is a role model for our students at FHSU, I believe that he makes a difference in our department, college, and community.”&nbsp;Karlin, in the college’s sonography program, was given the Howe Teaching Grant Award for her work in winning a grant to obtain an ergonomic imaging table for general, vascular and cardiac imaging. The table will be used by all students in sonography programs at FHSU.&nbsp;The table will accommodate individual students and patients with height adjustments and body dispositions.&nbsp;“As the department strives to offer a laboratory experience to best simulate a true clinical environment, it is also important that we provide the opportunity for correct ergonomic practices to help these behaviors become a habit early in their career,” said Briggs.&nbsp;

FHSU College of HBS announces outstanding 2020 students, faculty

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber schedules business events" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/9w6fw-dcfb8e?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber schedules business events

Memorial Day services by the American Legion Post 173 have officially been canceled. 

 The Post will, weather permitting, put out the flags in Veteran’s Park (just north of 13th and Haney). 

"So if you feel inclined, you may come out, enjoy the park with flags and privately reflect on the solemnness which comes during Memorial Day," the Post said in a news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583775109822.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Memorial Day services by the American Legion Post 173 have officially been canceled. The Post will, weather permitting, put out the flags in Veteran’s Park (just north of 13th and Haney). "So if you feel inclined, you may come out, enjoy the park with flags and privately reflect on the solemnness which comes during Memorial Day," the Post said in a news release.

Hays Memorial Day services canceled

The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of iPads for students in grades K-5 at its meeting Monday night.

The board meeting was held through Zoom and broadcast on Facebook.

Apple has offered a no-interest lease agreement for 1,50o iPads and cases. The lease would cost $360 per iPad and case for a total lease of $540,000 over four years.

The lease would allow the district to get ahead in its rotation for replacement of the kindergarten through second-grade devices, said Scott Summers, USD 489 technology director.

The district had planned to use the current K-2 devices a total of six years, and then rotate the next round of K-2 devices out after four years, he said. Adopting the proposed lease would mean two five-year rotations on the K-2 devices if the district opted for the $1 buy-back option at the end of the lease.

Summers estimated the district could reap about $50 per device if it bought and then sold the leased devices.

The district has budgeted funds in its capital outlay to pay for the lease.

A board member asked Summers if the iPads would be available considering COVID-19 supply issues.

Summers said Apple said the iPads could be available within three weeks of order and the cases could be available within six weeks of order.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588107703606.jpeg" alt="The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of new iPads for K-5 students at its meeting Monday night." />
 <figcaption>The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of new iPads for K-5 students at its meeting Monday night.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of iPads for students in grades K-5 at its meeting Monday night.The board meeting was held through Zoom and broadcast on Facebook.Apple has offered a no-interest lease agreement for 1,50o iPads and cases. The lease would cost $360 per iPad and case for a total lease of $540,000 over four years.The lease would allow the district to get ahead in its rotation for replacement of the kindergarten through second-grade devices, said Scott Summers, USD 489 technology director.The district had planned to use the current K-2 devices a total of six years, and then rotate the next round of K-2 devices out after four years, he said. Adopting the proposed lease would mean two five-year rotations on the K-2 devices if the district opted for the $1 buy-back option at the end of the lease.Summers estimated the district could reap about $50 per device if it bought and then sold the leased devices.The district has budgeted funds in its capital outlay to pay for the lease.A board member asked Summers if the iPads would be available considering COVID-19 supply issues.Summers said Apple said the iPads could be available within three weeks of order and the cases could be available within six weeks of order.

Hays USD 489 approves iPad purchase for elementary students

Being an Ellis County resident and taxpayer, I believe that making smart decisions with taxpayer dollars and investing wisely is important for the future of our County.&nbsp; Without a doubt, with hard work and desire to keep Ellis County flourishing, my plan is to always stay below budget without affecting service and looking for new ways for efficiency, speed, accuracy, and transparency in the office.

I currently supervise a division of Public Works for Ellis County for three years and have enjoyed working with all the staff and commissioners.&nbsp; I have had the opportunity to work with an approximate $1.2 million budget while keeping expenses below budget every year and finding new ways to maximize efficiency in the department. I am open to staff, citizens, and other elected officials who come to me with new ideas that may be implemented to save Ellis County and its taxpayers money. &nbsp;

I work for Ellis County because I love my community and would like to continue working for this great County as your Ellis County Treasurer.&nbsp; I would appreciate your vote at the primary on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

&nbsp;Feel free to contact me at 785-650-3292 or <a href="mailto:voteruderfortreasurer@gmail.com">voteruderfortreasurer@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;

Vern Ruder, candidate for Ellis County treasurer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589824071248.png" alt="Ruder" />
 <figcaption>Ruder</figcaption>
 </figure>Being an Ellis County resident and taxpayer, I believe that making smart decisions with taxpayer dollars and investing wisely is important for the future of our County.&nbsp; Without a doubt, with hard work and desire to keep Ellis County flourishing, my plan is to always stay below budget without affecting service and looking for new ways for efficiency, speed, accuracy, and transparency in the office.I currently supervise a division of Public Works for Ellis County for three years and have enjoyed working with all the staff and commissioners.&nbsp; I have had the opportunity to work with an approximate $1.2 million budget while keeping expenses below budget every year and finding new ways to maximize efficiency in the department. I am open to staff, citizens, and other elected officials who come to me with new ideas that may be implemented to save Ellis County and its taxpayers money. &nbsp;I work for Ellis County because I love my community and would like to continue working for this great County as your Ellis County Treasurer.&nbsp; I would appreciate your vote at the primary on Tuesday, Aug. 4.&nbsp;Feel free to contact me at 785-650-3292 or <a href="mailto:voteruderfortreasurer@gmail.com">voteruderfortreasurer@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;Vern Ruder, candidate for Ellis County treasurer

LETTER: Ruder makes run for Ellis County treasurer position

Congrats to the Victoria High School Class of 2020!

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Victoria High School Class of 2020

By CORINNE BOYER <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/kansas-news-deserts-leave-increasingly-fewer-reporters-cover-covid-19-outbreak">Kansas News Service</a>

GARDEN CITY — During a pandemic, local news 
coverage means more than keeping tabs on the city council or high school
 sports. The stories published in a newspaper, broadcast on a network TV
 affiliate or aired on the radio bring critical information about the 
public health crisis to communities.

People count on reporters in
 their town or region to let them know about the latest spread of 
disease, about what’s safe and what’s not — especially in small 
meatpacking towns that have become coronavirus hot spots.

“They’re
 doing the best they can,” said Angela Labrier, who turns to the Fox 
News Channel and The Garden City Telegram to stay on top of what’s 
happening with the coronavirus.

But it’s getting harder for local news outlets, just about everywhere.

In Kansas, <a href="https://www.usnewsdeserts.com/states/kansas/">58 of the state’s 105 counties</a>
 find themselves left with a single newspaper. Since 2004, Kansas has 
lost 18 daily newspapers. The surviving news outlets find themselves 
thinned out, with fewer reporters to track down and distill the news in 
the communities they struggle to cover.

The pandemic only made 
things worse. Stay-at-home orders, and the economic collapse that 
followed, put hundreds of thousands of Kansans out of work. That 
business free-fall cut deep into advertising revenue. For generations, 
news organizations have relied on ads as the foundation of their 
business models.

Now many news outfits that had to cut 
journalists off the payroll before a virus undid the economy face new 
economic pressure to slice even deeper.

Gatehouse, which owns the
 largest number of newspapers in Kansas, recently merged with Gannett. 
Editors and reporters at the chain making $38,000 or more will be <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/03/30/gannett-newspapers-furloughs/">furloughed</a>
 for one week without pay in May, June and July. McClatchy — it owns the
 two largest media outlets in Kansas, The Wichita Eagle and The Kansas 
City Star — finds itself in <a href="https://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/nation-world/national/article240139933.html">bankruptcy</a>.

In
 central Kansas, the Hays Post — a digital outlet run by Eagle Radio — 
created a coronavirus section on its website early on, said Eagle Radio 
News Director Ron Fields. The Hutch Post, the Salina Post and the Great 
Bend Post, and all of Eagle Radio’s websites, did the same thing.

In a testament to the hunger for local news in a crisis, web traffic doubled in little more than three weeks.

“In that short time period, there were just over a million individual devices that hit those four sites,” Fields said.

But Eagle Radio is the exception to the rule.

Over
 the last 15 years, 2,100 American newspapers have shuttered, said Penny
 Muse Abernathy, a communications professor at the University of North 
Carolina. The coronavirus will likely accelerate the news desert issue 
that Abernathy has tracked for 15 years.

“We’re going to see 
hundreds of newspapers go under,” she said. “We’re going to see many 
more newspapers come back even more slimmed down.”

Abernathy 
studies news deserts — places she defines as having “limited access to 
the sort of credible and comprehensive news and information that feeds 
democracy at the grassroots level.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589824181508.png" alt=" A dump truck hauls printing presses from The Garden City Telegram. Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> A dump truck hauls printing presses from The Garden City Telegram. Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By CORINNE BOYER <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/kansas-news-deserts-leave-increasingly-fewer-reporters-cover-covid-19-outbreak">Kansas News Service</a>GARDEN CITY — During a pandemic, local news 
coverage means more than keeping tabs on the city council or high school
 sports. The stories published in a newspaper, broadcast on a network TV
 affiliate or aired on the radio bring critical information about the 
public health crisis to communities.People count on reporters in
 their town or region to let them know about the latest spread of 
disease, about what’s safe and what’s not — especially in small 
meatpacking towns that have become coronavirus hot spots.“They’re
 doing the best they can,” said Angela Labrier, who turns to the Fox 
News Channel and The Garden City Telegram to stay on top of what’s 
happening with the coronavirus.But it’s getting harder for local news outlets, just about everywhere.In Kansas, <a href="https://www.usnewsdeserts.com/states/kansas/">58 of the state’s 105 counties</a>
 find themselves left with a single newspaper. Since 2004, Kansas has 
lost 18 daily newspapers. The surviving news outlets find themselves 
thinned out, with fewer reporters to track down and distill the news in 
the communities they struggle to cover.The pandemic only made 
things worse. Stay-at-home orders, and the economic collapse that 
followed, put hundreds of thousands of Kansans out of work. That 
business free-fall cut deep into advertising revenue. For generations, 
news organizations have relied on ads as the foundation of their 
business models.Now many news outfits that had to cut 
journalists off the payroll before a virus undid the economy face new 
economic pressure to slice even deeper.Gatehouse, which owns the
 largest number of newspapers in Kansas, recently merged with Gannett. 
Editors and reporters at the chain making $38,000 or more will be <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/03/30/gannett-newspapers-furloughs/">furloughed</a>
 for one week without pay in May, June and July. McClatchy — it owns the
 two largest media outlets in Kansas, The Wichita Eagle and The Kansas 
City Star — finds itself in <a href="https://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/nation-world/national/article240139933.html">bankruptcy</a>.<h2>Local coronavirus news coverage</h2>In
 central Kansas, the Hays Post — a digital outlet run by Eagle Radio — 
created a coronavirus section on its website early on, said Eagle Radio 
News Director Ron Fields. The Hutch Post, the Salina Post and the Great 
Bend Post, and all of Eagle Radio’s websites, did the same thing.In a testament to the hunger for local news in a crisis, web traffic doubled in little more than three weeks.“In that short time period, there were just over a million individual devices that hit those four sites,” Fields said.But Eagle Radio is the exception to the rule.Over
 the last 15 years, 2,100 American newspapers have shuttered, said Penny
 Muse Abernathy, a communications professor at the University of North 
Carolina. The coronavirus will likely accelerate the news desert issue 
that Abernathy has tracked for 15 years.“We’re going to see 
hundreds of newspapers go under,” she said. “We’re going to see many 
more newspapers come back even more slimmed down.”Abernathy 
studies news deserts — places she defines as having “limited access to 
the sort of credible and comprehensive news and information that feeds 
democracy at the grassroots level.”She sees an emergence of “ghost newspapers,” the remnants left when large chains consolidate and strip down papers.“So
 first, they stripped out printing and distribution,” Abernathy said. 
“Then they started stripping out sales functions, and ... then they 
started stripping out editing and reporting functions.”<h2>Importance of local news</h2>Elisa
 Shearer is a research associate at the Pew Research Center, which has 
surveyed people about the new coronavirus since March.“Most 
people say that they’re following (the news) at both the local and the 
national level and almost half say that local outlets are a major source
 of news for them,” Shearer said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589824258540.jpeg" alt=" Printing presses from The Garden City Telegram. Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Printing presses from The Garden City Telegram. Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Yet more than a third say they look to state and local officials, 
meaning those public figures can drive public understanding of the 
outbreak without the context and fact-checking that people traditionally
 turned to journalists for.The media still matter. Steven 
Smethers, director of the A.Q. Miller School of Journalism and Mass 
Communications at Kansas State University, said that when newspapers or 
other outlets cover less news, people notice.“When you ask them 
then about what would be a good substitute if they didn’t have that 
local newspaper or that local radio station, it’s a sobering moment,” he
 said. “They can’t imagine life without the newspaper or the radio or 
television station either.”Yet professional news organizations continue to shrink, even disappear. That’s created a growing thirst for coverage.Since
 on-campus college classes have switched to online instruction, 
reporters at K-State’s student newspaper, The Collegian, continued 
covering COVID-19 remotely.“The Collegian has been on top of 
this story from day one,” Smethers said. “We have about five students 
who have kept reporting on this beat.”In areas with few or no 
media outlets, people often turn to social media for news. In the early 
days of the pandemic, bogus cures circulated widely.“The good 
news is at least Facebook and Google are trying to take those down,” 
said Abernathy, the North Carolina researcher, “The bad news is they can
 still stay out there for long periods of time.”In Dodge City, 
Pablo Candia started the bilingual Informative Hispanic American 
newspaper in 2012. But printing stopped once businesses that advertised 
started shutting down because of the coronavirus. If the newspaper 
doesn’t survive, he said the community will miss out on information. 
would leave a hole, a new news desert, in the community.“If our publication (doesn’t) return, readers will lose an independent newspaper” Candia said.Corinne
 Boyer covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas
 News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @corinne_boyer or email 
cboyer@hppr.org.