I have had several calls lately with producers asking questions about cutting their wheat for hay or silage. Below is an article from K-State Research and Extension’s eUpdate that discusses the forage quality and pricing if you decide to go that route. As always, if you have a question, you can always contact us by calling the office at 620-793-1910 or emailing at aboor@ksu.edu.

Freezing conditions during April over some parts of Kansas potentially caused some damage in winter wheat, and with the passage of time, the level of damage is becoming more clear.&nbsp; As a result, producers facing reduced grain yields must soon decide whether to keep the wheat crop for grain or make a forage such as wheat hay or silage.

Comparing net returns to grain versus forage at this stage, however, requires market prices for wheat hay and silage, which aren’t always readily available.&nbsp; So how do you put a value on these forage products?&nbsp; This article updates a 2018 eUpdate article to provide some current estimates of wheat forage values as producers consider their options moving forward.&nbsp; The earlier article has more details on harvest concerns and relative feedstuff values.

It must also be mentioned that insured wheat growers should check first with their crop insurance agent before harvesting a forage crop to determine insurance requirements and document potential grain yield losses.&nbsp; Sometimes producers may be required to leave small areas of uncut wheat to provide a way to estimate grain yields.&nbsp; Insurance agents can also inform producers of any other restrictions which may apply. &nbsp;

The approach for pricing these wheat forage products will be to derive a silage or hay price using feed value comparisons to a feedstuff for which more reliable price information exists.&nbsp; A good candidate for a proxy feedstuff in Kansas is alfalfa hay, with prices reported weekly across the entire state and for a range of quality levels.&nbsp;

Alfalfa hay rated as “good” quality will have 58-60 percent total digestible nutrients (TDN) and 18-20 percent crude protein. According to USDA Ag Marketing Service reports, “fair/good” grinding alfalfa in southwest Kansas is currently selling for around $150-170 / ton, as a reference point.&nbsp; Wheat silage made from wheat at “early-head stage” maturity contains just over 15% Crude Protein and 73% TDN, on a dry matter basis.

Using an alfalfa hay price of $160/ton and the value of energy in alfalfa hay, a comparable wheat silage price based solely on energy would figure out to about $70 per ton as fed ($199/ton dry matter basis, assuming the silage is 35 percent dry matter.&nbsp; A similar calculation based solely on protein content would suggest a wheat silage price of about $50/ton as fed (about $143/ton dry matter basis). These results, based on rather simplistic calculations, might be viewed as upper and lower bounds on wheat silage prices, from a feed value perspective.&nbsp;

For wheat hay, Watson, indicated that wheat hay harvested at the dough stage would have 56-62 percent TDN and 8-10 percent crude protein, on a dry matter basis.&nbsp; So, wheat hay has almost as high an energy content as alfalfa hay, but significantly lower protein.&nbsp; Wheat hay priced solely on energy, relative to alfalfa, would figure out to about $155 per ton as fed.&nbsp; However, a similar calculation based solely on protein content would suggest a wheat hay price of only about $69/ton as fed.&nbsp; This is a rather wide range and could be considered as upper and lower bounds on the wheat hay value.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Given this wide range, this same approach based on relative feeding values is also estimated with a comparison to forage sorghum hay, which is closer in nutrient content to wheat hay and may provide a more meaningful range of price estimates. Using a TDN value of 57% and a crude protein value of 8% for forage sorghum hay, along with an edge-of-the-field price of $110 ton, we get suggested wheat hay prices in the range of $110 to $124 per ton.

Ultimately, of course, market prices are determined by buyers and sellers.&nbsp; However, the discussion above provides a couple of perspectives on how interested parties might approach the problem.&nbsp;

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 for K-State Research and Extension." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension.</figcaption>
 </figure>I have had several calls lately with producers asking questions about cutting their wheat for hay or silage. Below is an article from K-State Research and Extension’s eUpdate that discusses the forage quality and pricing if you decide to go that route. As always, if you have a question, you can always contact us by calling the office at 620-793-1910 or emailing at aboor@ksu.edu.Freezing conditions during April over some parts of Kansas potentially caused some damage in winter wheat, and with the passage of time, the level of damage is becoming more clear.&nbsp; As a result, producers facing reduced grain yields must soon decide whether to keep the wheat crop for grain or make a forage such as wheat hay or silage.Comparing net returns to grain versus forage at this stage, however, requires market prices for wheat hay and silage, which aren’t always readily available.&nbsp; So how do you put a value on these forage products?&nbsp; This article updates a 2018 eUpdate article to provide some current estimates of wheat forage values as producers consider their options moving forward.&nbsp; The earlier article has more details on harvest concerns and relative feedstuff values.It must also be mentioned that insured wheat growers should check first with their crop insurance agent before harvesting a forage crop to determine insurance requirements and document potential grain yield losses.&nbsp; Sometimes producers may be required to leave small areas of uncut wheat to provide a way to estimate grain yields.&nbsp; Insurance agents can also inform producers of any other restrictions which may apply. &nbsp;Pricing wheat silage and wheat hayThe approach for pricing these wheat forage products will be to derive a silage or hay price using feed value comparisons to a feedstuff for which more reliable price information exists.&nbsp; A good candidate for a proxy feedstuff in Kansas is alfalfa hay, with prices reported weekly across the entire state and for a range of quality levels.&nbsp;Alfalfa hay rated as “good” quality will have 58-60 percent total digestible nutrients (TDN) and 18-20 percent crude protein. According to USDA Ag Marketing Service reports, “fair/good” grinding alfalfa in southwest Kansas is currently selling for around $150-170 / ton, as a reference point.&nbsp; Wheat silage made from wheat at “early-head stage” maturity contains just over 15% Crude Protein and 73% TDN, on a dry matter basis.Using an alfalfa hay price of $160/ton and the value of energy in alfalfa hay, a comparable wheat silage price based solely on energy would figure out to about $70 per ton as fed ($199/ton dry matter basis, assuming the silage is 35 percent dry matter.&nbsp; A similar calculation based solely on protein content would suggest a wheat silage price of about $50/ton as fed (about $143/ton dry matter basis). These results, based on rather simplistic calculations, might be viewed as upper and lower bounds on wheat silage prices, from a feed value perspective.&nbsp;For wheat hay, Watson, indicated that wheat hay harvested at the dough stage would have 56-62 percent TDN and 8-10 percent crude protein, on a dry matter basis.&nbsp; So, wheat hay has almost as high an energy content as alfalfa hay, but significantly lower protein.&nbsp; Wheat hay priced solely on energy, relative to alfalfa, would figure out to about $155 per ton as fed.&nbsp; However, a similar calculation based solely on protein content would suggest a wheat hay price of only about $69/ton as fed.&nbsp; This is a rather wide range and could be considered as upper and lower bounds on the wheat hay value.&nbsp; &nbsp;Given this wide range, this same approach based on relative feeding values is also estimated with a comparison to forage sorghum hay, which is closer in nutrient content to wheat hay and may provide a more meaningful range of price estimates. Using a TDN value of 57% and a crude protein value of 8% for forage sorghum hay, along with an edge-of-the-field price of $110 ton, we get suggested wheat hay prices in the range of $110 to $124 per ton.Ultimately, of course, market prices are determined by buyers and sellers.&nbsp; However, the discussion above provides a couple of perspectives on how interested parties might approach the problem.&nbsp;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: Grain versus silage

By GREG DOERING, Kansas Farm Bureau

Over the past few weeks, my colleagues at Kansas Farm Bureau have seen more of my basement than either I or they ever envisioned they would. Their riveting view consists of two doors, one to the laundry room and one to a spare bedroom. Between the two hangs a painting from my grandmother.

It’s a fall scene of a barn with hay bales stacked next to it. The sky is blue with fluffy, white clouds. Autumn has turned the grass reddish brown and yellowed the leaves on the oak trees. It’s a scene taken from countless farms across the country. It’s also one of several family heirlooms surrounding me in my new workspace.

Most of my work is done at a desk that once belonged to my great-grandfather. According to family lore, it resided in the office of the movie theatre he owned and operated through the Great Depression until he died in the early ‘70s. My father used it in his office at my childhood home until I took possession of it.

The desk has been in my basement for just shy of a decade now, mostly accumulating the junk flat surfaces tend to attract. Built of solid red oak, it’s still plenty capable of serving its intended function, even though a laptop has replaced the inkwell and typewriter.

I’ve also rediscovered an open-faced Waltham pocket watch. I’ve kept it nearby, winding it periodically to hear the rhythmic ticking. It’s older than the desk, dating to at least my great-great-grandfather, Artemas L. Barton. There’s an outside chance the watch originally belonged to his father who had the same initials.

The case is made of brass and is engraved with ALB in the center of the back cover, which is dented in a couple of spots. A semi-circle of polished metal is evidence it slid in and out of its owner’s pocket. It’s missing the second hand and the face is a little faded, but it still keeps time.

All of these are amusing distractions that allow my mind to wander.

I ponder if my great-grandfather leaned back in his chair and propped his feet up on the same corner I do. I wonder if Artemas checked the watch before an important meeting. And I ask myself what item of mine might one day spark such questions from my descendants.

My grandmother probably didn’t set out to create an heirloom when she crafted her painting. My great-grand-father would have never envisioned his office desk from a cinema holding a computer capable of streaming endless movies and TV shows. I doubt my great-great-grandfather imagined his everyday watch becoming an inheritance spanning generations.

These items are connections to just a fraction of my ancestors. Others include a Lutheran minister in Germany at the beginning of the European Reformation and an accused witch in Salem, Massachusetts. She eventually fled to Framingham, which is just west of Boston. Between the two is Waltham, birthplace of the pocket watch now ticking away on my desk.

Everyone comes from somewhere, and that’s why I find these items fascinating. I think about what small items of mine might find their way to my descendants long after I’m gone.

It’s also a reminder that life will continue without you. And the most inconsequential decisions — creating a painting, choosing a desk, buying a pocket watch — become the little legacies we leave.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694508756.jpeg" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING, Kansas Farm BureauOver the past few weeks, my colleagues at Kansas Farm Bureau have seen more of my basement than either I or they ever envisioned they would. Their riveting view consists of two doors, one to the laundry room and one to a spare bedroom. Between the two hangs a painting from my grandmother.It’s a fall scene of a barn with hay bales stacked next to it. The sky is blue with fluffy, white clouds. Autumn has turned the grass reddish brown and yellowed the leaves on the oak trees. It’s a scene taken from countless farms across the country. It’s also one of several family heirlooms surrounding me in my new workspace.Most of my work is done at a desk that once belonged to my great-grandfather. According to family lore, it resided in the office of the movie theatre he owned and operated through the Great Depression until he died in the early ‘70s. My father used it in his office at my childhood home until I took possession of it.The desk has been in my basement for just shy of a decade now, mostly accumulating the junk flat surfaces tend to attract. Built of solid red oak, it’s still plenty capable of serving its intended function, even though a laptop has replaced the inkwell and typewriter.I’ve also rediscovered an open-faced Waltham pocket watch. I’ve kept it nearby, winding it periodically to hear the rhythmic ticking. It’s older than the desk, dating to at least my great-great-grandfather, Artemas L. Barton. There’s an outside chance the watch originally belonged to his father who had the same initials.The case is made of brass and is engraved with ALB in the center of the back cover, which is dented in a couple of spots. A semi-circle of polished metal is evidence it slid in and out of its owner’s pocket. It’s missing the second hand and the face is a little faded, but it still keeps time.All of these are amusing distractions that allow my mind to wander.I ponder if my great-grandfather leaned back in his chair and propped his feet up on the same corner I do. I wonder if Artemas checked the watch before an important meeting. And I ask myself what item of mine might one day spark such questions from my descendants.My grandmother probably didn’t set out to create an heirloom when she crafted her painting. My great-grand-father would have never envisioned his office desk from a cinema holding a computer capable of streaming endless movies and TV shows. I doubt my great-great-grandfather imagined his everyday watch becoming an inheritance spanning generations.These items are connections to just a fraction of my ancestors. Others include a Lutheran minister in Germany at the beginning of the European Reformation and an accused witch in Salem, Massachusetts. She eventually fled to Framingham, which is just west of Boston. Between the two is Waltham, birthplace of the pocket watch now ticking away on my desk.Everyone comes from somewhere, and that’s why I find these items fascinating. I think about what small items of mine might find their way to my descendants long after I’m gone.It’s also a reminder that life will continue without you. And the most inconsequential decisions — creating a painting, choosing a desk, buying a pocket watch — become the little legacies we leave."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Little legacies

MANHATTAN — An interdisciplinary team of Kansas State University researchers developed a computer simulation that revealed beef supply chain vulnerabilities that need safeguarding — a realistic concern during
 the COVID-19 pandemic.

<a href="https://www.ece.k-state.edu/people/faculty/scoglio/" target="_blank">Caterina Scoglio</a>,
 professor, and Qihui Yang, doctoral student, both in electrical and computer engineering, recently published "<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378437119304583" target="_blank">Developing
 an agent-based model to simulate the beef cattle production and transportation in southwest Kansas</a>" in Physica A, an Elsevier journal publication.



The paper describes a model of the beef production system and the transportation industry, which are interdependent critical infrastructures — similar to the electrical grid and computer technology. 

According to the model, disruptions in the cattle industry
 — especially in the beef packing plants — will affect the transportation industry and together cause great economic harm. The disruptions modeled in the simulation share similarities with how the packing plants have been affected during the COVID-19 pandemic.




"When we first started working on this project, there was a lot of emphasis on studying critical infrastructures; especially ones that are interdependent, meaning that they need to work together with other critical infrastructures," Scoglio said.&nbsp;"The idea is if there is a failure in one of the systems, it can propagate to the other system, increasing the catastrophic effects." 

The study included a variety of viewpoints to create a realistic and integrated model of both systems. 

Co-authors on the paper include Don Gruenbacher, associate professor and department head of electrical and computer engineering; Jessica Heier Stamm, associate
 professor of industrial and manufacturing systems engineering; Gary Brase, professor of psychological sciences; Scott DeLoach, professor and department head of computer science; and David Amrine, research director of the Beef Cattle Institute.




The researchers used the model to evaluate which supply chain components were more robust and which were not. They determined that packing plants are the most vulnerable.

Scoglio said that recent events in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic raise important
 issues about how to safeguard the system.

"An important message is that after understanding the critical role of these packers, we need to decide how we could protect both them and the people who work there," Scoglio said. 

"While the plants are a critical infrastructure and need to be protected, taking
 care of the health of the workers is very important. How can we design a production process that can be flexible and adaptable in an epidemic?"



According to the paper, the beef cattle industry contributes approximately $8.9 billion to the Kansas economy and employs more than 42,000 people in the state. 

Since trucks are needed to move cattle, any disruption in either cattle production or transportation
 almost certainly would harm the regional economy, Scoglio said.



"Packers need to be considered as a critical point of a much longer supply chain, which needs specific attention to make sure it will not fail and can continue working," Scoglio said. "Beef packers are a critical infrastructure in the United States."



The project was supported by the National Science Foundation and focused on southwest Kansas, but the researchers acknowledge that cattle come from outside the region and interruptions may have larger national effects.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587239901438.png" alt="National Beef Plant in Dodge City (Photo by Bethany Wood /Kansas News Service)" />
 <figcaption>National Beef Plant in Dodge City (Photo by Bethany Wood /Kansas News Service)</figcaption>
 </figure>KSU News ServiceMANHATTAN — An interdisciplinary team of Kansas State University researchers developed a computer simulation that revealed beef supply chain vulnerabilities that need safeguarding — a realistic concern during
 the COVID-19 pandemic. 

<a href="https://www.ece.k-state.edu/people/faculty/scoglio/" target="_blank">Caterina Scoglio</a>,
 professor, and Qihui Yang, doctoral student, both in electrical and computer engineering, recently published "<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378437119304583" target="_blank">Developing
 an agent-based model to simulate the beef cattle production and transportation in southwest Kansas</a>" in Physica A, an Elsevier journal publication.


The paper describes a model of the beef production system and the transportation industry, which are interdependent critical infrastructures — similar to the electrical grid and computer technology. According to the model, disruptions in the cattle industry
 — especially in the beef packing plants — will affect the transportation industry and together cause great economic harm. The disruptions modeled in the simulation share similarities with how the packing plants have been affected during the COVID-19 pandemic.


"When we first started working on this project, there was a lot of emphasis on studying critical infrastructures; especially ones that are interdependent, meaning that they need to work together with other critical infrastructures," Scoglio said.&nbsp;"The idea is if there is a failure in one of the systems, it can propagate to the other system, increasing the catastrophic effects." The study included a variety of viewpoints to create a realistic and integrated model of both systems. Co-authors on the paper include Don Gruenbacher, associate professor and department head of electrical and computer engineering; Jessica Heier Stamm, associate
 professor of industrial and manufacturing systems engineering; Gary Brase, professor of psychological sciences; Scott DeLoach, professor and department head of computer science; and David Amrine, research director of the Beef Cattle Institute.


The researchers used the model to evaluate which supply chain components were more robust and which were not. They determined that packing plants are the most vulnerable. Scoglio said that recent events in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic raise important
 issues about how to safeguard the system. "An important message is that after understanding the critical role of these packers, we need to decide how we could protect both them and the people who work there," Scoglio said. "While the plants are a critical infrastructure and need to be protected, taking
 care of the health of the workers is very important. How can we design a production process that can be flexible and adaptable in an epidemic?"

According to the paper, the beef cattle industry contributes approximately $8.9 billion to the Kansas economy and employs more than 42,000 people in the state. Since trucks are needed to move cattle, any disruption in either cattle production or transportation
 almost certainly would harm the regional economy, Scoglio said.

"Packers need to be considered as a critical point of a much longer supply chain, which needs specific attention to make sure it will not fail and can continue working," Scoglio said. "Beef packers are a critical infrastructure in the United States."

The project was supported by the National Science Foundation and focused on southwest Kansas, but the researchers acknowledge that cattle come from outside the region and interruptions may have larger national effects.

Study of SW Kan. beef packers reveals supply chain vulnerabilities

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Individuals interested in commenting during Thursday's public hearings regarding economic incentive requests for the planned new travel plaza in northwest Hays will be able to do so in person, despite the continued closure of city hall because of the coronavirus.

During the May 14, 2020, Hays City Commission meeting, two public hearings for the D&amp;J Land and Development project will be held. 

Due to social distancing and mass gathering requirements, the city will provide special accommodations, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.&nbsp;

"Essentially, they just need to show up at 6:30 p.m. Someone will be at the door to let people in," Bielser said.

The number of chairs in the city commission chambers has been reduced so that each is placed&nbsp; at least six feet apart.

If there are enough empty chairs in the chambers, people may sit there. "If not, people will remain in the hallway - spaced six feet apart- until it's their turn to speak. They should be able to hear the meeting in the hallway."

Mass gatherings may now be more than 10 people as long as they remain six feet apart.

People are welcome but not required to wear face coverings or masks.

Individuals planning to comment who want to learn more about the&nbsp; process are encouraged to contact Bielser at cbielser@haysusa.com, or by calling 785-628-7320 by noon on Thursday.

Individuals may also send public comments to publiccomment@haysusa.com. 

Presentations about the requested  Tax Increment Financing (TIF, development agreement, and proposed Community Improvement District (CID) will have the same information as given during the May 7 work session. 

The work session video is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABxmbncLTN8&amp;list=PL3Fzb-KBsZZ-V5DLSgW2fa4YLIeCQQ_9A">https://www.youtube.com/user/NexTechChannel/videos</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An audio recording of the work session and the agenda packet is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05072020-1192">https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The developer wishes to establish a 2.00% CID sales tax on a portion of the project site&nbsp;to fund certain project expenditures on a pay-as-you-go basis. The CID sales tax will generate approximately $2.92 million over the maximum 22-year term.

The TIF is estimated to generate about&nbsp;$14.95 million over the maximum 20-year term. It would be made available to reimburse the developer&nbsp;for TIF-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis. TIF revenues are derived from incremental property tax revenues collected.

The May 14 complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05142020-1193">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578625943413.jpeg" alt="The site at the northwest corner of 230th Ave. and 55th St. (I-70 Exit 157) is planned for a travel plaza, truck wash, full-service hotel, restaurants and other general commercial development." />
 <figcaption>The site at the northwest corner of 230th Ave. and 55th St. (I-70 Exit 157) is planned for a travel plaza, truck wash, full-service hotel, restaurants and other general commercial development.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIndividuals interested in commenting during Thursday's public hearings regarding economic incentive requests for the planned new travel plaza in northwest Hays will be able to do so in person, despite the continued closure of city hall because of the coronavirus.During the May 14, 2020, Hays City Commission meeting, two public hearings for the D&amp;J Land and Development project will be held. Due to social distancing and mass gathering requirements, the city will provide special accommodations, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.&nbsp;"Essentially, they just need to show up at 6:30 p.m. Someone will be at the door to let people in," Bielser said.The number of chairs in the city commission chambers has been reduced so that each is placed&nbsp; at least six feet apart.If there are enough empty chairs in the chambers, people may sit there. "If not, people will remain in the hallway - spaced six feet apart- until it's their turn to speak. They should be able to hear the meeting in the hallway."Mass gatherings may now be more than 10 people as long as they remain six feet apart.People are welcome but not required to wear face coverings or masks.Individuals planning to comment who want to learn more about the&nbsp; process are encouraged to contact Bielser at cbielser@haysusa.com, or by calling 785-628-7320 by noon on Thursday.Individuals may also send public comments to publiccomment@haysusa.com. Presentations about the requested Tax Increment Financing (TIF, development agreement, and proposed Community Improvement District (CID) will have the same information as given during the May 7 work session. The work session video is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABxmbncLTN8&amp;list=PL3Fzb-KBsZZ-V5DLSgW2fa4YLIeCQQ_9A">https://www.youtube.com/user/NexTechChannel/videos</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An audio recording of the work session and the agenda packet is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05072020-1192">https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The developer wishes to establish a 2.00% CID sales tax on a portion of the project site&nbsp;to fund certain project expenditures on a pay-as-you-go basis. The CID sales tax will generate approximately $2.92 million over the maximum 22-year term.The TIF is estimated to generate about&nbsp;$14.95 million over the maximum 20-year term. It would be made available to reimburse the developer&nbsp;for TIF-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis. TIF revenues are derived from incremental property tax revenues collected.The May 14 complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05142020-1193">here</a>.&nbsp;

How to make comments during travel plaza public hearings

<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 plans events as businesses reopen in Ellis Co." height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/zca4z-dc4a6c?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 plans events as businesses reopen in Ellis Co.

The Ellis County Relay for Life has been canceled this year as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19.

The American Cancer Society informed local chapters to not have in-person events through at least June as many of the participants are cancer survivors and have comprised immune systems, said volunteer Mary Ann Randa.

The Ellis County event is typically scheduled for the first Friday of June, but will likely not be rescheduled this year.

The Ellis County Relay for Life organization also had to cancel its annual Egg Your House fundraiser, which was scheduled around Easter.

The group's annual golf tournament has been rescheduled to Saturday, June 19 at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course in Hays.

Cost is $80 per player for a four-person scramble. T-shirts and lunch will be provided. Registration will be at 8 a.m., and a shotgun start will be at 9 a.m. Golf cart cost is $40 each.

You can see more information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/relayforlifeellisco/">Ellis County Relay for Life Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;

Ellis County Relay for Life raises about $23,000 annually for the American Cancer Society. About half of the money raised comes from the golf tournament and a raffle, which the group was able to conduct in March.

The rest comes from the events that were canceled this year — the egg fundraiser and Relay for Life. Most of the Relay money raised comes from the sale of luminaries.

The American Cancer Society uses the funds to support Hope Lodge, a housing complex in Kansas City where patients can stay while they are undergoing treatment. The cancer society also provides assistance to patients who have to travel out of state for care.

Funds also support the purchase of wigs, dietary supplements and research.

The University of Kansas Health System receives about $5 million per year from the American Cancer Society for research, Randa said.

Randa said she was concerned about the American Cancer Society's ability to continue to provide support services as fundraising events are canceled.

She urged those who usually donate to Relay for Life to continue to donate to the group this year despite the cancellation of events.

"We are still asking for donations, but their availability with everybody laid off is pretty scarce," she said. "They just don't know."

You can send checks to&nbsp;Ellis County Relay for Life, PO Box 2, Hays, KS 67601. You can also donate directly on the <a href="https://secure.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY20NOR?pg=entry&amp;fr_id=96687">group's website</a>.&nbsp;

Although the loss of the funding is significant, the loss of the event itself is also a blow.

"It is actually part of the healing process," said Randa, who lost her mother, brother and two co-workers to cancer, "not just for the cancer patients but for their loved ones and caregivers who&nbsp;stood by those who have had to suffer through all of that."

The Relay is an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifice those who lost their battle to cancer made, Randa said.

"You may have lost someone, but someone else may have a better chance of surviving," Randa said.

She added, "Because of them, the treatments are so much better and so much more tolerable because they learned from prior patients."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589311147600.jpeg" alt="The Ellis County Relay for Life, which is usually in June, has been canceled this year. Photo courtesy of Ellis County Relay for Life" />
 <figcaption>The Ellis County Relay for Life, which is usually in June, has been canceled this year. Photo courtesy of Ellis County Relay for Life</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEYHays PostThe Ellis County Relay for Life has been canceled this year as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19.The American Cancer Society informed local chapters to not have in-person events through at least June as many of the participants are cancer survivors and have comprised immune systems, said volunteer Mary Ann Randa.The Ellis County event is typically scheduled for the first Friday of June, but will likely not be rescheduled this year.The Ellis County Relay for Life organization also had to cancel its annual Egg Your House fundraiser, which was scheduled around Easter.The group's annual golf tournament has been rescheduled to Saturday, June 19 at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course in Hays.Cost is $80 per player for a four-person scramble. T-shirts and lunch will be provided. Registration will be at 8 a.m., and a shotgun start will be at 9 a.m. Golf cart cost is $40 each.You can see more information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/relayforlifeellisco/">Ellis County Relay for Life Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589311353326.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Relay for Life raises about $23,000 annually for the American Cancer Society. About half of the money raised comes from the golf tournament and a raffle, which the group was able to conduct in March.The rest comes from the events that were canceled this year — the egg fundraiser and Relay for Life. Most of the Relay money raised comes from the sale of luminaries.The American Cancer Society uses the funds to support Hope Lodge, a housing complex in Kansas City where patients can stay while they are undergoing treatment. The cancer society also provides assistance to patients who have to travel out of state for care.Funds also support the purchase of wigs, dietary supplements and research.The University of Kansas Health System receives about $5 million per year from the American Cancer Society for research, Randa said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589311472271.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Randa said she was concerned about the American Cancer Society's ability to continue to provide support services as fundraising events are canceled.She urged those who usually donate to Relay for Life to continue to donate to the group this year despite the cancellation of events."We are still asking for donations, but their availability with everybody laid off is pretty scarce," she said. "They just don't know."You can send checks to&nbsp;Ellis County Relay for Life, PO Box 2, Hays, KS 67601. You can also donate directly on the <a href="https://secure.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY20NOR?pg=entry&amp;fr_id=96687">group's website</a>.&nbsp;Although the loss of the funding is significant, the loss of the event itself is also a blow."It is actually part of the healing process," said Randa, who lost her mother, brother and two co-workers to cancer, "not just for the cancer patients but for their loved ones and caregivers who&nbsp;stood by those who have had to suffer through all of that."The Relay is an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifice those who lost their battle to cancer made, Randa said."You may have lost someone, but someone else may have a better chance of surviving," Randa said.She added, "Because of them, the treatments are so much better and so much more tolerable because they learned from prior patients."

Ellis Co. Relay for Life canceled; American Cancer Society to take financial hit

Midland Marketing is proud to give back to the communities where we live and that we are a part of.&nbsp; One of the organizations that we help to fund projects and special equipment for is the rural fire departments.&nbsp; They are a vital part of our communities and we are fortunate to be able to work with them on many things.&nbsp; Midland Marketing employs many fire department members throughout the trade territory.

This year, Midland Marketing had some funding available to purchase new SCBA equipment for three of our rural departments.&nbsp; 

Damar, McCracken and Plainville Rural fire departments received The SCBA equipment along with new gloves to protect them from the dangers they incur when on the fires.&nbsp; Fire Fighters use the SCBAs to provide them with breathable air when they are in a dangerous situation such as fighting a structure fire, vehicle fire, or responding to a hazardous material call. This allows them to work more effectively in tough conditions. 

The SCBAs are a vital piece of equipment for the health and safety of our rural departments. We are proud to be able to give back to our communities and thankful that we have volunteers that are willing to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588958463247.jpeg" alt="#4 Damar Fire Department l-r Shay Simoneau Midland Marketing and Damar Assistant fire chief, Matt Benoit and Kyle Benoit Damar Fire department, Tom Benoit Midland Marketing Board member, Kevin Royer GM Midland Marketing" />
 <figcaption>#4 Damar Fire Department l-r Shay Simoneau Midland Marketing and Damar Assistant fire chief, Matt Benoit and Kyle Benoit Damar Fire department, Tom Benoit Midland Marketing Board member, Kevin Royer GM Midland Marketing</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMidland Marketing is proud to give back to the communities where we live and that we are a part of.&nbsp; One of the organizations that we help to fund projects and special equipment for is the rural fire departments.&nbsp; They are a vital part of our communities and we are fortunate to be able to work with them on many things.&nbsp; Midland Marketing employs many fire department members throughout the trade territory.This year, Midland Marketing had some funding available to purchase new SCBA equipment for three of our rural departments.&nbsp; Damar, McCracken and Plainville Rural fire departments received The SCBA equipment along with new gloves to protect them from the dangers they incur when on the fires.&nbsp; Fire Fighters use the SCBAs to provide them with breathable air when they are in a dangerous situation such as fighting a structure fire, vehicle fire, or responding to a hazardous material call. This allows them to work more effectively in tough conditions. The SCBAs are a vital piece of equipment for the health and safety of our rural departments. We are proud to be able to give back to our communities and thankful that we have volunteers that are willing to protect them.Submitted<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588958513974.jpeg" alt="Fire Donation-Plainville Fire Department L-R Kevin Royer GM Midland Marketing and Assistant Fire Chief Plainville, Justin Casey Lieutenant, Craig Wise Plainville Fire Chief, Quinton Meyers Plainville Mayor and Fire Fighter, Doug Keas Midland Marketing Board Member." />
 <figcaption>Fire Donation-Plainville Fire Department L-R Kevin Royer GM Midland Marketing and Assistant Fire Chief Plainville, Justin Casey Lieutenant, Craig Wise Plainville Fire Chief, Quinton Meyers Plainville Mayor and Fire Fighter, Doug Keas Midland Marketing Board Member.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588958537487.jpeg" alt="#5 McCracken Rural Fire Department l-r John Irvin McCracken Fire Department, Midland Board Member, Bill Greenway McCracken Fire Chief and Midland Marketing, Ted North Rush Co Fire Board, Michael Greenway Rush Co Fire Board and Midland Marketing, Mike Stull Midland Marketing Board Member, Heath North McCracken Fire Chief, Curt Crosiant South Area Manager" />
 <figcaption>#5 McCracken Rural Fire Department l-r John Irvin McCracken Fire Department, Midland Board Member, Bill Greenway McCracken Fire Chief and Midland Marketing, Ted North Rush Co Fire Board, Michael Greenway Rush Co Fire Board and Midland Marketing, Mike Stull Midland Marketing Board Member, Heath North McCracken Fire Chief, Curt Crosiant South Area Manager</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588958549244.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>

Midland Marketing donates equipment to rural fire departments

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/BW9cTdK1tnk"></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: Sabian Chaney, New Life Center

Three-day weather outlook

Twenty-two faculty members have earned tenure, promotion or both at Fort Hays State University for the next academic year.&nbsp;

The promotions take effect with the fall semester.&nbsp;

Faculty to be promoted are listed with their new academic rank.&nbsp;

Dr. James Balthazor,&nbsp;associate professor of chemistry.&nbsp;

Dr. Yaprak Dalat Ward,&nbsp;associate professor of advanced education programs.&nbsp;

Dr. Brooke Moore,&nbsp;associate professor of advanced education programs.&nbsp;

Dr. Rick Edgeman,&nbsp;professor of management.&nbsp;

Dr. Candace Mehaffey-Kultgen, assistant&nbsp;professor of management.&nbsp;

Ron Rohlf,&nbsp;assistant professor of informatics.&nbsp;

Dr. Christa Beiker,&nbsp;professor of allied health.&nbsp;

Dr. Emily Breit,&nbsp;professor of accounting, finance and economics.&nbsp;

Joe Chretien,&nbsp;professor of applied technology.&nbsp;

Ben Cline,&nbsp;professor of music and theatre.&nbsp;

Dr. Cole Engel,&nbsp;associate professor of economics, finance and accounting.&nbsp;

Toby Flores,&nbsp;professor of art and design.&nbsp;

Dr. Leo Herrman,&nbsp;professor of psychology.&nbsp;

Rebecca Karlin,&nbsp;assistant professor of allied health.&nbsp;

Dr. Eric Leuschner,&nbsp;professor of English.&nbsp;

Dr. Sarbari Mitra,&nbsp;associate professor of mathematics.&nbsp;

Dr. Janett Naylor-Tincknell,&nbsp;professor of psychology.&nbsp;

Dr. Irena Ravitskaya,&nbsp;professor of music and theatre.&nbsp;

Dr. Sam Schreyer,&nbsp;professor of economics, finance and accounting.&nbsp;

Kim Stewart,&nbsp;professor of applied technology.&nbsp;

Dr. Janet Stramel,&nbsp;professor of teacher education.&nbsp;

Angela Walters,&nbsp;professor of informatics.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589294713723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsTwenty-two faculty members have earned tenure, promotion or both at Fort Hays State University for the next academic year.&nbsp;The promotions take effect with the fall semester.&nbsp;Faculty to be promoted are listed with their new academic rank.&nbsp;<h2>Tenured and promoted</h2>Dr. James Balthazor,&nbsp;associate professor of chemistry.&nbsp;Dr. Yaprak Dalat Ward,&nbsp;associate professor of advanced education programs.&nbsp;Dr. Brooke Moore,&nbsp;associate professor of advanced education programs.&nbsp;TenuredDr. Rick Edgeman,&nbsp;professor of management.&nbsp;Dr. Candace Mehaffey-Kultgen, assistant&nbsp;professor of management.&nbsp;Ron Rohlf,&nbsp;assistant professor of informatics.&nbsp;<h2>Promoted</h2>Dr. Christa Beiker,&nbsp;professor of allied health.&nbsp;Dr. Emily Breit,&nbsp;professor of accounting, finance and economics.&nbsp;Joe Chretien,&nbsp;professor of applied technology.&nbsp;Ben Cline,&nbsp;professor of music and theatre.&nbsp;Dr. Cole Engel,&nbsp;associate professor of economics, finance and accounting.&nbsp;Toby Flores,&nbsp;professor of art and design.&nbsp;Dr. Leo Herrman,&nbsp;professor of psychology.&nbsp;Rebecca Karlin,&nbsp;assistant professor of allied health.&nbsp;Dr. Eric Leuschner,&nbsp;professor of English.&nbsp;Dr. Sarbari Mitra,&nbsp;associate professor of mathematics.&nbsp;Dr. Janett Naylor-Tincknell,&nbsp;professor of psychology.&nbsp;Dr. Irena Ravitskaya,&nbsp;professor of music and theatre.&nbsp;Dr. Sam Schreyer,&nbsp;professor of economics, finance and accounting.&nbsp;Kim Stewart,&nbsp;professor of applied technology.&nbsp;Dr. Janet Stramel,&nbsp;professor of teacher education.&nbsp;Angela Walters,&nbsp;professor of informatics.&nbsp;

Promotions, grants of tenure announced by FHSU

The Ellis County Planning and Zoning Committee meeting scheduled for May 27 has been canceled.

The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for June 24.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578921333301.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTYThe Ellis County Planning and Zoning Committee meeting scheduled for May 27 has been canceled.The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for June 24.&nbsp;

Ellis Co. Planning and Zoning Committee cancels May meeting

TOPEKA—Eight more district courts will resume issuing marriage licenses using a process that doesn't require in-person contact, according to a news release from the Office of Judicial Administration (OJA).

District courts in Barton, Leavenworth, Lyon, Miami, Pawnee, Reno, Saline and Thomas counties will begin processing new marriage license applications starting Wednesday, May 13.

Applicants must call a court to begin the process.

Ten courts have been processing marriage licenses using this new process since April 20.

Courts that will issue marriage licenses

People who live in Johnson, Sedgwick, Shawnee, or Wyandotte county will get their marriage licenses through the district court in their county:

People who live in other counties will now be able to choose from 14 court locations to get a marriage license:

Courts will receive applications by encrypted email or mail

Marriage license paperwork requires the applicant to provide a photo identification that includes personally identifiable information, such as date of birth, Social Security number,
 or driver’s license number. To protect this information, courts will begin an encrypted email exchange with the applicant through which the applicant will return completed paperwork.

If an applicant does not have email, courts will also send and receive paperwork by U.S. mail.

Marriage license applicants previously were required to appear in person in the clerk of court’s office to swear an oath that includes affirming:

Under the new process, applicants will make this affirmation on paper.



Prior marriage license applications will not be processed

If a person submitted a marriage license application before courts closed to in-person contact on March 18, and the marriage license was not issued, the person will need to submit a
 new application to a court issuing marriage licenses using this new process. This applies even if the earlier application was submitted to a court that will now issue marriage licenses, and it is to ensure all requirements are met.&nbsp;



State courts slowly expanding operations&nbsp;


On May 1 the chief justice issued six new administrative orders to provide updated direction to state courts and court users as the state slowly reopens following a plan outlined by
 the governor April 30.

Under these orders, courts will gradually increase the number and types of service delivered to the people of Kansas.

State courts have been operating in a limited capacity since March 18 under earlier Supreme Court orders issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Courts initially were restricted
 to only essential functions, but they were later permitted to perform additional functions to the extent local resources and circumstances allowed.

For a complete list of judicial branch actions in response to the novel coronavirus, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb1aUDzx1PP5TWLT1Qtq_1Y8" target="_blank">Kansas
 Courts Response to COVID-19</a>.

OJATOPEKA—Eight more district courts will resume issuing marriage licenses using a process that doesn't require in-person contact, according to a news release from the Office of Judicial Administration (OJA).District courts in Barton, Leavenworth, Lyon, Miami, Pawnee, Reno, Saline and Thomas counties will begin processing new marriage license applications starting Wednesday, May 13.Applicants must call a court to begin the process.Ten courts have been processing marriage licenses using this new process since April 20.Courts that will issue marriage licensesPeople who live in Johnson, Sedgwick, Shawnee, or Wyandotte county will get their marriage licenses through the district court in their county:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb7Wcg6Y3-q94VSvaFs16CyA" target="_blank">Johnson County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Olathe — 913-715-3428</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb6rLOVTv8tfLDZLXa0pY0go" target="_blank">Sedgwick County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Wichita — 316-660-5900</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb6vNJxyxYE4Y2dgnWfNUJtU" target="_blank">Shawnee County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Topeka — 785-251-6362</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb3eWoY_FPLaL4wh6cKHyaxc" target="_blank">Wyandotte County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Kansas City — 913-573-2834</li>
 </ol>People who live in other counties will now be able to choose from 14 court locations to get a marriage license:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb94bTvGqIf_OQjOZ5bjCI9U" target="_blank">Barton County District Court</a> — Great Bend — 620-793-1856</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb25qa860-fO31r1_9_mltEw" target="_blank">Crawford County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Pittsburg — 620-231-0380</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb9tXstjl-fI76y-wmrcrU1U" target="_blank">Douglas County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Lawrence — 785-832-5256</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb8Is3cFF5ezKSAliO1-cM_E" target="_blank">Ellis County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Hays — 785-628-9415</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb_K2B_YYLfn8_H1FoCMfYuE" target="_blank">Finney County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Garden City — 620-271-6120</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYbziHMPo7_pMtAu56beFJgko" target="_blank">Ford County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Dodge City — 620-227-4609</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb2YMs5PiB4uiYMLBnnJrk3w" target="_blank">Harvey County District Court</a>&nbsp;— Newton — 316-284-6890</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYbxLgzcfnuEEFv3BFZCcPp2o" target="_blank">Leavenworth County District Court</a> — Leavenworth — 913-684-0700</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYbx65sCHtkGFn-dm95vhQQZQ" target="_blank">Lyon County District Court</a> — Emporia — 620-341-3280</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb9dHss6eqa7zO0qeMey2Lho" target="_blank">Miami County District Court</a> — Paola — 913-294-3326</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb9ZwypAhXEZwylX2ZdaFhrs" target="_blank">Pawnee County District Court</a> — Larned — 620-285-6937</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb-53vGN7VjmxAwBOIZZ3DuU" target="_blank">Reno County District Court</a> — Hutchinson — 620-694-2956</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb-q2LOPcx0b-bRk1ZeBMw4Q" target="_blank">Saline County District Court</a> — Salina — 785-309-5831</li><li><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb6SDGIs3oV0H64tXkRWrpuY" target="_blank">Thomas County District Court</a> — Colby — 785-460-4540</li>
 </ol>Courts will receive applications by encrypted email or mailMarriage license paperwork requires the applicant to provide a photo identification that includes personally identifiable information, such as date of birth, Social Security number,
 or driver’s license number. To protect this information, courts will begin an encrypted email exchange with the applicant through which the applicant will return completed paperwork.If an applicant does not have email, courts will also send and receive paperwork by U.S. mail.Fulfilling the oath requirementMarriage license applicants previously were required to appear in person in the clerk of court’s office to swear an oath that includes affirming:<ol>
 <li>they are of lawful age to marry or have necessary consent to marry;</li><li>are not related in degrees prohibited by law; and</li><li>no legal reason exists why they should not marry.</li>
 </ol>Under the new process, applicants will make this affirmation on paper.

Prior marriage license applications will not be processedIf a person submitted a marriage license application before courts closed to in-person contact on March 18, and the marriage license was not issued, the person will need to submit a
 new application to a court issuing marriage licenses using this new process. This applies even if the earlier application was submitted to a court that will now issue marriage licenses, and it is to ensure all requirements are met.&nbsp;

State courts slowly expanding operations&nbsp;
On May 1 the chief justice issued six new administrative orders to provide updated direction to state courts and court users as the state slowly reopens following a plan outlined by
 the governor April 30.Under these orders, courts will gradually increase the number and types of service delivered to the people of Kansas.State courts have been operating in a limited capacity since March 18 under earlier Supreme Court orders issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Courts initially were restricted
 to only essential functions, but they were later permitted to perform additional functions to the extent local resources and circumstances allowed.For a complete list of judicial branch actions in response to the novel coronavirus, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/JqDtBpkqH62iBM4NbIZYb1aUDzx1PP5TWLT1Qtq_1Y8" target="_blank">Kansas
 Courts Response to COVID-19</a>.

Thomas Co. court to issue marriage license with no in-person contact

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT, Hays Post

The Hays Eagles and Hays Monarchs summer baseball teams are
still planning to play this summer despite the National American Legion’s
announcement this week that the organization has canceled all involvement in
the 2020 summer baseball season.

Earlier this spring, in the midst of the coronavirus
pandemic, the American Legion National Organization canceled the regional and
national tournaments for the 2020 season but left it up to each individual
state decide if they would have a state tournament. But, on Sunday, the national
organization announced the “shutdown all sponsorship and all involvement in
baseball for the 2020 season."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ebacfdceb7f17053604c4d8">RELATED: Hays Rec issues reopening plan for 2020.</a>

Steve Queen, Kansas American Legion State Baseball chairman, said
there were 24 states still planning to try and play American Legion baseball
this summer but the national leadership’s decision to shut down made it virtually
impossible for the states to go forward.

“They were going to pull the plug, so the portal where all
of our registrations&nbsp; (were located was shut down,” Queen said. “They canceled all
the insurance. So, everything that had been accomplished already had been undone.”

The leadership of both the Hays Eagles and Hays Monarchs
confirmed this week they are planning to play this summer. 

Skip Cox, Hays Eagles board president, said they will try to
have just as many games as last season.

“It really doesn’t change a whole lot outside of
postseason,” Cox said. “The American Legion isn’t tied to the doubleheaders we
play during the week and a lot of the tournaments that we go to are not
specifically Legion-sanctioned events. They’re independent.”

Trey Wentling of the Monarchs said “our season is on as
scheduled.”

Any teams that chose to play in 2020 will be considered
independent and will have to carry their own insurance. 

Queen said as the current number of positive cases of coronavirus
just now peaking in the Midwest safety is a big priority.

“Our most important concern in the health and safety of the
people — of the kids that are playing and the spectators that come to watch,” he said.

Queen said he has been in contact with programs across the
state trying to help them get the proper coverage that they need. 

Cox said they will make sure they
are insured before they move forward.

“The company that does our American Legion insurance is
going to have another option,” Cox said. “As soon as we get all that covered,
we can get after it.”

On the state level, Queen said the American Legion won’t have
anything to do with it — he encourages programs to play as independents.

“There’s a bunch of teams around,” Queen said. “I know my
local team, they’re going to continue their program as an independent.”

Cox said he anticipates some tournaments will get pushed
back because of the late start, but the Wild West Fest Tournament is still set
to go on as planned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589313426565.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT, Hays PostThe Hays Eagles and Hays Monarchs summer baseball teams are
still planning to play this summer despite the National American Legion’s
announcement this week that the organization has canceled all involvement in
the 2020 summer baseball season.Earlier this spring, in the midst of the coronavirus
pandemic, the American Legion National Organization canceled the regional and
national tournaments for the 2020 season but left it up to each individual
state decide if they would have a state tournament. But, on Sunday, the national
organization announced the “shutdown all sponsorship and all involvement in
baseball for the 2020 season."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ebacfdceb7f17053604c4d8">RELATED: Hays Rec issues reopening plan for 2020.</a>Steve Queen, Kansas American Legion State Baseball chairman, said
there were 24 states still planning to try and play American Legion baseball
this summer but the national leadership’s decision to shut down made it virtually
impossible for the states to go forward.“They were going to pull the plug, so the portal where all
of our registrations&nbsp; (were located was shut down,” Queen said. “They canceled all
the insurance. So, everything that had been accomplished already had been undone.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589313782561.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The leadership of both the Hays Eagles and Hays Monarchs
confirmed this week they are planning to play this summer. Skip Cox, Hays Eagles board president, said they will try to
have just as many games as last season.“It really doesn’t change a whole lot outside of
postseason,” Cox said. “The American Legion isn’t tied to the doubleheaders we
play during the week and a lot of the tournaments that we go to are not
specifically Legion-sanctioned events. They’re independent.”Trey Wentling of the Monarchs said “our season is on as
scheduled.”Any teams that chose to play in 2020 will be considered
independent and will have to carry their own insurance. Queen said as the current number of positive cases of coronavirus
just now peaking in the Midwest safety is a big priority.“Our most important concern in the health and safety of the
people — of the kids that are playing and the spectators that come to watch,” he said.Queen said he has been in contact with programs across the
state trying to help them get the proper coverage that they need. Cox said they will make sure they
are insured before they move forward.“The company that does our American Legion insurance is
going to have another option,” Cox said. “As soon as we get all that covered,
we can get after it.”On the state level, Queen said the American Legion won’t have
anything to do with it — he encourages programs to play as independents.“There’s a bunch of teams around,” Queen said. “I know my
local team, they’re going to continue their program as an independent.”Cox said he anticipates some tournaments will get pushed
back because of the late start, but the Wild West Fest Tournament is still set
to go on as planned.

Despite cancellations, Hays summer baseball still a go

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Is it OK to hug a loved one? Should I sign my child up for sports this summer? Do I need to wear a mask at work?

Health care professionals at the University of Kansas Health System answered these questions and others Monday about staying safe as the Kansas economy begins to reopen after the COVID-19 shutdown.

Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer at the health system, was joined by Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, and&nbsp;Amanda Gartner, RN, director of Quality and Safety.

"I think at some point we have to realize this is about relative risk and not about absolute safety," Stites said. "Absolute safety is 'Give me the bubble wrap and I'll just stay inside.' ...

"Each person has to determine their own level of risk."

"A hug is a very short period of time, and I think there are ways to make it safe," Hawkinson said.

Wearing masks and turning your head from each other can lower the chances of transferring droplets that can spread the virus, the health care workers said.

Is it OK for my kids to play organized sports this summer?

The health care workers discouraged children playing organized sports even though phase two and three of the governor's reopening plan would allow it.

Stites especially discouraged organized sports for young children who might not be able to understand or realistically practice social distancing.

"The problem is not that it is baseball. It is that you just brought a bunch of 5- and 7-year-olds together," he said. "Would you let that happen in another environment?"

The children who contract the virus will likely be asymptomatic. They might not feel sick, but they can spread the virus to others, Stites said.

In baseball or softball, the ball can be a means of transferring the virus. Athletes also sit close to each other when they are on the bench waiting to bat.

Even testing is not insurance, because a negative test today can be a positive test tomorrow, Gartner said.

Gartner said anytime you think or know you are going to be around people, you should wear a mask, including at work.

"I was speaking to someone in an office space earlier today, and I said she should really have a mask on. She said, 'I'm just sitting at my desk.' But people come to her desk often," Gartner said.

Stites recommended wait staff wear masks and gloves when serving food.

Gartner said she keeps hand sanitizer in her car at all times. She also wears a mask when she goes to the grocery store.&nbsp;

"It also helps remind me to not touch my face when I have a mask on," she said. "You come into contact with the environment and then the likelihood of transmission is when you touch your face."

The virus can live on hard or nonporous surfaces such as cans, bottles and chip bags. You can wipe those down when you get home with an alcohol wipe. Fruits and vegetables can by washed with water.&nbsp;

However, if the cans are left to sit for a couple of days, the virus won't last on the items.&nbsp;

He noted there have been no confirmed cases of people being infected from touching grocery items.

Is it possible to over-sanitize? Will this hurt our immune systems?

"I don't think there is a risk of over sanitizing,"&nbsp;Gartner said.&nbsp; "I think these are all really good practices despite COVID."

She also said health care workers have known for years good hand hygiene practices help prevent infection.

Hawkinson said the human body is regularly exposed to other pathogens.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fkmbc9%2Fvideos%2F2666584283602223%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589223037484.jpeg" alt="Dr. Steve Stites, center, chief medical officer at the KU Health System, answered&nbsp; questions about COIVD-19 Monday via Zoom. He was joined by Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, and Amanda Gartner, RN, director of Quality and Safety." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Steve Stites, center, chief medical officer at the KU Health System, answered&nbsp; questions about COIVD-19 Monday via Zoom. He was joined by Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, and Amanda Gartner, RN, director of Quality and Safety.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIs it OK to hug a loved one? Should I sign my child up for sports this summer? Do I need to wear a mask at work?Health care professionals at the University of Kansas Health System answered these questions and others Monday about staying safe as the Kansas economy begins to reopen after the COVID-19 shutdown.Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer at the health system, was joined by Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, and&nbsp;Amanda Gartner, RN, director of Quality and Safety."I think at some point we have to realize this is about relative risk and not about absolute safety," Stites said. "Absolute safety is 'Give me the bubble wrap and I'll just stay inside.' ..."Each person has to determine their own level of risk."<h2>Is there a safe way to hug someone?</h2>"A hug is a very short period of time, and I think there are ways to make it safe," Hawkinson said.Wearing masks and turning your head from each other can lower the chances of transferring droplets that can spread the virus, the health care workers said.<h2>Is it OK for my kids to play organized sports this summer?</h2>The health care workers discouraged children playing organized sports even though phase two and three of the governor's reopening plan would allow it.Stites especially discouraged organized sports for young children who might not be able to understand or realistically practice social distancing."The problem is not that it is baseball. It is that you just brought a bunch of 5- and 7-year-olds together," he said. "Would you let that happen in another environment?"The children who contract the virus will likely be asymptomatic. They might not feel sick, but they can spread the virus to others, Stites said.In baseball or softball, the ball can be a means of transferring the virus. Athletes also sit close to each other when they are on the bench waiting to bat.Even testing is not insurance, because a negative test today can be a positive test tomorrow, Gartner said.<h2>Should I wear a mask at work?</h2>Gartner said anytime you think or know you are going to be around people, you should wear a mask, including at work."I was speaking to someone in an office space earlier today, and I said she should really have a mask on. She said, 'I'm just sitting at my desk.' But people come to her desk often," Gartner said.Stites recommended wait staff wear masks and gloves when serving food.<h2>What are safe shopping procedures?</h2>Gartner said she keeps hand sanitizer in her car at all times. She also wears a mask when she goes to the grocery store.&nbsp;"It also helps remind me to not touch my face when I have a mask on," she said. "You come into contact with the environment and then the likelihood of transmission is when you touch your face."The virus can live on hard or nonporous surfaces such as cans, bottles and chip bags. You can wipe those down when you get home with an alcohol wipe. Fruits and vegetables can by washed with water.&nbsp;However, if the cans are left to sit for a couple of days, the virus won't last on the items.&nbsp;He noted there have been no confirmed cases of people being infected from touching grocery items.<h2>Is it possible to over-sanitize? Will this hurt our immune systems?</h2>"I don't think there is a risk of over sanitizing,"&nbsp;Gartner said.&nbsp; "I think these are all really good practices despite COVID."She also said health care workers have known for years good hand hygiene practices help prevent infection.Hawkinson said the human body is regularly exposed to other pathogens.<h2>Will we still have to wear masks after June 15?</h2>The doctors said just because the economy is opening does not mean that the virus is gone.&nbsp;Hawkinson said we will still likely see cases.Stites said effective therapy or a vaccine will likely be anywhere from six to 18 months away.Gartner said, "I think we have to be very mindful.&nbsp; Some of the regulations have changed and we can go out into the community, but we still have to be very aware of the risk of the spread here."She said it is still important to maintain small group gatherings, wear a mask in public, clean, and wash your hands.Stites said, "The rules haven't changed just because the calendar did."He said we need to take personal responsibility."Making other people unhealthy is not going to make the economy better," he said. "What is going to make it better is being here in the long term."He repeated precautions are about relative risk."If you want to use bubble wrap and not go out, you can do that," he said, "but I don't know that is a humanly possible thing. You have to balance the different needs you have as a person against that."One the things is when you listen to all public health people is they are going to say you have to do all these things. That's great, but it's not real health. You have to cope with what is real health."Hawkinson said public health officials try to aim for the gold standard because they know most people will fudge and not quite reach those standards.<h2>Will students be safe in dorms in August?</h2>Hawkinson said we know dorm living has historically been dangerous because people are congregated together. He gave the example of meningitis.&nbsp;"In a place like a dorm or fraternity or sorority house," he said, "infectious disease can spread very quickly. I think it is too early to say, but right now I would say I probably wouldn't do that, especially if you are expecting to go back and forth every couple of weeks to see your loved ones."

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