Thomas More Prep-Marian recently announced Brenda Rose will join TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School as a junior high English instructor in preparation for the 2020-21 academic year.&nbsp;

Upon earning her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Fort Hays State University, master's of education from Wichita State, and building-level administration certificate from FHSU, Rose — a 2001 graduate of TMP-Marian — began her teaching career in 2004 with the Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center in Oakley.

Since, Rose has continued her career in education with Colby Grade School, Colby; Ellis Junior High, Ellis; Kansas State University, Manhattan; FHSU; and Hays Middle School.

“Strong, respectful relationships are a priority of mine as a teacher," Rose said. "I want my students to be motivated to learn while enjoying their time in my classroom. I strive to challenge them on a daily basis to work to their greatest potential while also learning how to be good, Christian people.”

Rose holds TMP-Marian in a special place in her heart.

“Being able to have my own children attend Holy Family and eventually TMP-Marian was a driving force behind relocating to Hays seven years ago.&nbsp; I love that TMP-Marian is founded on faith, while also focusing on strong academics and helping to teach our students holistically,” said Rose regarding why she chose to join TMP-Marian.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I am excited that my love of teaching and working with young adults can be paired with my faith and love of TMP-Marian,” Rose said.

“One of the most important factors in the quality of a child’s education is a great classroom teacher," said&nbsp;TMP-Marian Principal Chad Meitner. "For the formative years of junior high school, this importance is dramatically clear. With this understanding, it is easy to see why we’re so excited to have Brenda join TMP-Marian Junior High. Combine this with the value of a strong English language arts instructor, and TMP-Marian is blessed to welcome her to the faculty."

Rose said, “At the end of the year I want students to leave my classroom knowing I care about each and every one of them and have done what I could to prepare them not only for the next grade level but life."

In her new role with TMP-Marian Junior High, Rose will take over for Carol Brull who, in January, announced her retirement from teaching after 45 years in education at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year. Brull was a part of the inaugural staff of TMP-Marian Junior High when it opened in 2012.

TMP-MThomas More Prep-Marian recently announced Brenda Rose will join TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School as a junior high English instructor in preparation for the 2020-21 academic year.&nbsp;Upon earning her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Fort Hays State University, master's of education from Wichita State, and building-level administration certificate from FHSU, Rose — a 2001 graduate of TMP-Marian — began her teaching career in 2004 with the Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center in Oakley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586533127064.jpeg" alt="Brenda Rose" />
 <figcaption>Brenda Rose</figcaption>
 </figure>Since, Rose has continued her career in education with Colby Grade School, Colby; Ellis Junior High, Ellis; Kansas State University, Manhattan; FHSU; and Hays Middle School.“Strong, respectful relationships are a priority of mine as a teacher," Rose said. "I want my students to be motivated to learn while enjoying their time in my classroom. I strive to challenge them on a daily basis to work to their greatest potential while also learning how to be good, Christian people.”Rose holds TMP-Marian in a special place in her heart.“Being able to have my own children attend Holy Family and eventually TMP-Marian was a driving force behind relocating to Hays seven years ago.&nbsp; I love that TMP-Marian is founded on faith, while also focusing on strong academics and helping to teach our students holistically,” said Rose regarding why she chose to join TMP-Marian.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I am excited that my love of teaching and working with young adults can be paired with my faith and love of TMP-Marian,” Rose said.“One of the most important factors in the quality of a child’s education is a great classroom teacher," said&nbsp;TMP-Marian Principal Chad Meitner. "For the formative years of junior high school, this importance is dramatically clear. With this understanding, it is easy to see why we’re so excited to have Brenda join TMP-Marian Junior High. Combine this with the value of a strong English language arts instructor, and TMP-Marian is blessed to welcome her to the faculty."Rose said, “At the end of the year I want students to leave my classroom knowing I care about each and every one of them and have done what I could to prepare them not only for the next grade level but life."In her new role with TMP-Marian Junior High, Rose will take over for Carol Brull who, in January, announced her retirement from teaching after 45 years in education at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year. Brull was a part of the inaugural staff of TMP-Marian Junior High when it opened in 2012.

TMP-Marian hires Rose as new English teacher

My head is spinning from all of the information that has come to me in the past week via Zoom meetings, e-mails and webinars. In fact, three days this past week I had the opportunity to join with Extension faculty from across the country for some serious networking. Since I am serving my state professional association as president this year, I was registered to attend the Leadership Conference in Washington DC. With the current shut down of events, the committee worked quickly to take us to Washington DC virtually.&nbsp;

The speakers at the conference were great and their message consistently was, “We can come out of this challenging time in our lives, stronger than we were before.”&nbsp; I know for many people, that statement may be a hard sell. A self-employed business owner doesn’t get a pay check when they can’t be open for business. Medical staff and all other essential workers have to be feeling tired and stressed from the long hours and strict protocols that have to be enforced.

K-State Research and Extension Administrators made some difficult decisions this week as they pushed the date forward to July 4th for no face to face meetings or events. This is a busy time of year for agents in the Cottonwood District with many youth events, crop tours, and educational meetings that would normally be scheduled. While cancelling these events is disappointing, it is the right thing to do. &nbsp;

In a letter from Wade Weber sent to our 4-H families, our State 4-H Leader he states, “We did not take this decision lightly. We are doing this because the health and well-being of our participants, employees and volunteers must be our top priority. In order to ensure quality programs for late spring/early summer, we need to shift from preparation and planning for face-to-face activities to alternative activities.”

You can be sure that our Cottonwood Extension District Team is working hard to create those alternative activities; turning these challenging times into opportunities. Our staff meets weekly to discuss ways to utilize technology to better meet the needs of our families. For those who don’t have access to on-line resources we are happy to visit via phone calls and send information to you in the mail.

Please reach out to us at the Cottonwood Extension Offices and let us know “How can we help you?”

Donna Krug is the District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her by calling either the Great Bend office (620)793-1910 or the Hays office (785)628-9430. Or send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583253738760.jpeg" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>My head is spinning from all of the information that has come to me in the past week via Zoom meetings, e-mails and webinars. In fact, three days this past week I had the opportunity to join with Extension faculty from across the country for some serious networking. Since I am serving my state professional association as president this year, I was registered to attend the Leadership Conference in Washington DC. With the current shut down of events, the committee worked quickly to take us to Washington DC virtually.&nbsp;The speakers at the conference were great and their message consistently was, “We can come out of this challenging time in our lives, stronger than we were before.”&nbsp; I know for many people, that statement may be a hard sell. A self-employed business owner doesn’t get a pay check when they can’t be open for business. Medical staff and all other essential workers have to be feeling tired and stressed from the long hours and strict protocols that have to be enforced.K-State Research and Extension Administrators made some difficult decisions this week as they pushed the date forward to July 4th for no face to face meetings or events. This is a busy time of year for agents in the Cottonwood District with many youth events, crop tours, and educational meetings that would normally be scheduled. While cancelling these events is disappointing, it is the right thing to do. &nbsp;In a letter from Wade Weber sent to our 4-H families, our State 4-H Leader he states, “We did not take this decision lightly. We are doing this because the health and well-being of our participants, employees and volunteers must be our top priority. In order to ensure quality programs for late spring/early summer, we need to shift from preparation and planning for face-to-face activities to alternative activities.”You can be sure that our Cottonwood Extension District Team is working hard to create those alternative activities; turning these challenging times into opportunities. Our staff meets weekly to discuss ways to utilize technology to better meet the needs of our families. For those who don’t have access to on-line resources we are happy to visit via phone calls and send information to you in the mail.Please reach out to us at the Cottonwood Extension Offices and let us know “How can we help you?”Donna Krug is the District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her by calling either the Great Bend office (620)793-1910 or the Hays office (785)628-9430. Or send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Turning challenges into opportunities

Three-day weather outlook

By DANIEL CAUDILL <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-college-students-face-uncertainty-world-changed-coronavirus#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>

A few weeks ago, University of Kansas senior Fatimah Alsinan was in a
 workshop finishing the last design and construction projects for her 
architecture degree.

Now, she’s meeting with classmates online, 
reviewing premade blueprints and building projects with K’Nex and Legos 
at her apartment.

“We don’t really have a clear idea of what (we are) doing in the future at all,” Alsinan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

College
 students across Kansas and the rest of the nation are in a similar 
boat, trying to stay on track with classes while the COVID-19 outbreak 
brings everything to a halt.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-governor-issues-statewide-stay-home-order-which-starts-monday#stream/0" target="_blank">Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order at the end of March</a>,
 coordinating social distancing efforts across each of the state’s 105 
counties. She also ordered K-12 schools closed until at least next 
school year.&nbsp;

Kansas’ universities moved classes mostly online for the rest of the 
school year, and pushed graduation ceremonies, a celebratory cap on 
years of hard work, to the Internet or postponed them.&nbsp;

But 
attending a later graduation ceremony is simply not an option for many 
international students like Alsinan, who’s originally from Saudi 
Arabia.&nbsp;

“Maybe it makes sense for so many people because they 
live in the next state, or two states away. But I’m not gonna come from 
the other side of the world with my family to attend graduation for 
three days,” she said. “I’ll need to make a whole new visa to actually 
come.”&nbsp;

Students who’ll be at out-of-state grad schools by then, 
like Fort Hays State senior Kaytee Wisley, likely won’t get to walk 
across the stage for their big moment, either.&nbsp;

“I didn’t realize
 how much that that had meant to me until we got the email that it was 
going to be postponed or canceled,” Wisley said.&nbsp;

Wisley’s 
internship with the League of Women Voters of Kansas was cut short 
because of coronavirus shutdowns. She said the internship was integral 
to her plans after grad school, when she hopes to work for a nonprofit 
to advocate for voting rights.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Many students, 
especially those from another country, are still separated from their 
family. Alsinan, who hasn’t been back to Saudi Arabia in nearly three 
years, has gotten used to not seeing them.&nbsp;

“The one thing that would make me miss my family more is that I can’t even see my friends,” she said.&nbsp;

It’s
 why some university officials are doing their part to make students 
feel supported and connected at a distance. Alicia Sanchez, director of 
Wichita State’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, said she has always 
aimed to make her office a “home away from home” for students. And even 
if COVID-19 is keeping students locked in their real homes, Sanchez said
 that effort has not stopped — only changed.&nbsp;

The office has 
taken to hosting video “webinars,” including one for Transgender Day of 
Visibility in March. It also plans to set up virtual office hours.&nbsp;

“One
 of the things in our physical space that we pride ourselves on is being
 able to provide connections,” Sanchez said. “We feel like this is 
really important right now, especially for students who might feel 
isolated or need an opportunity to connect and just step away from, ya 
know, their academics for a little bit and be able to engage with their 
peers.”&nbsp;

And business must go on, as Wisley learned. As a member 
of her school’s student government, the group had to have an emergency 
meeting to allocate 2020-21 student fees for campus organizations.&nbsp;

“We absolutely had to get those passed before we left or else — we didn’t know how to do that via Zoom,” she said.&nbsp;

Navigating
 video-conferencing software like Zoom is a major challenge in online 
learning, especially for students who don’t have high-speed internet at 
home. Universities are trying to help bridge that gap by providing them 
mobile hotspots.&nbsp;

Josh Wolf isn’t a professional educator just 
yet. The K-State senior is a student-teacher who’s been helping to 
create online coursework for a seventh grade social studies class at 
Eisenhower Middle School in Manhattan.

Needless to say, he’s had an unusual first teaching experience. But 
he said he thinks it’ll ultimately make him a better teacher.&nbsp;

“I
 don’t know necessarily if I’m ever gonna have to teach an online class 
again,” he said, “but I think the lessons to be learned about overcoming
 adversity in an education setting definitely is something valuable to 
me.”

As someone who’s preparing to enter the workforce, he said 
he has some anxiety. In March alone, nearly 10 million Americans filed 
for unemployment; <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-sees-1000-surge-jobless-claims-covid-19-derails-economy#stream/0" target="_blank">Kansas reported a 1,000% increase in claims just in the third week of March.&nbsp;</a>

But Wolf’s keeping a positive mindset, for himself and for his students.&nbsp;

“You
 know, even if it takes a little bit, even if it is a rough and a little
 bit of a scary period,” he said, “I know and I believe that ultimately 
we will overcome all of this.”

Daniel Caudill is a Statehouse intern for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/bydanielcaudill" target="_blank"> @byDanielCaudill</a>.
 The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public 
Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on the health and 
well-being of Kansans, their communities and civic life.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586555483480.jpeg" alt=" The bike racks outside of a building on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence were empty in early April, as everything had been moved online. Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> The bike racks outside of a building on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence were empty in early April, as everything had been moved online. Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By DANIEL CAUDILL <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-college-students-face-uncertainty-world-changed-coronavirus#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>A few weeks ago, University of Kansas senior Fatimah Alsinan was in a
 workshop finishing the last design and construction projects for her 
architecture degree.Now, she’s meeting with classmates online, 
reviewing premade blueprints and building projects with K’Nex and Legos 
at her apartment.“We don’t really have a clear idea of what (we are) doing in the future at all,” Alsinan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;College
 students across Kansas and the rest of the nation are in a similar 
boat, trying to stay on track with classes while the COVID-19 outbreak 
brings everything to a halt.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-governor-issues-statewide-stay-home-order-which-starts-monday#stream/0" target="_blank">Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order at the end of March</a>,
 coordinating social distancing efforts across each of the state’s 105 
counties. She also ordered K-12 schools closed until at least next 
school year.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586555526300.jpeg" alt=" Fatimah Alsinan is on a visa to study at the University of Kansas. Credit Courtesy of Fatimah Alsinan" />
 <figcaption> Fatimah Alsinan is on a visa to study at the University of Kansas. Credit Courtesy of Fatimah Alsinan</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas’ universities moved classes mostly online for the rest of the 
school year, and pushed graduation ceremonies, a celebratory cap on 
years of hard work, to the Internet or postponed them.&nbsp;But 
attending a later graduation ceremony is simply not an option for many 
international students like Alsinan, who’s originally from Saudi 
Arabia.&nbsp;“Maybe it makes sense for so many people because they 
live in the next state, or two states away. But I’m not gonna come from 
the other side of the world with my family to attend graduation for 
three days,” she said. “I’ll need to make a whole new visa to actually 
come.”&nbsp;Students who’ll be at out-of-state grad schools by then, 
like Fort Hays State senior Kaytee Wisley, likely won’t get to walk 
across the stage for their big moment, either.&nbsp;“I didn’t realize
 how much that that had meant to me until we got the email that it was 
going to be postponed or canceled,” Wisley said.&nbsp;Wisley’s 
internship with the League of Women Voters of Kansas was cut short 
because of coronavirus shutdowns. She said the internship was integral 
to her plans after grad school, when she hopes to work for a nonprofit 
to advocate for voting rights.&nbsp; &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586555566271.jpeg" alt=" Kaytee Wisley's internship was cut short due to COVID-19 precautions. She'll be part of Fort Hays State's Class of 2020. Credit Courtesy of Kaytee Wisley" />
 <figcaption> Kaytee Wisley's internship was cut short due to COVID-19 precautions. She'll be part of Fort Hays State's Class of 2020. Credit Courtesy of Kaytee Wisley</figcaption>
 </figure>Keeping the communityMany students, 
especially those from another country, are still separated from their 
family. Alsinan, who hasn’t been back to Saudi Arabia in nearly three 
years, has gotten used to not seeing them.&nbsp;“The one thing that would make me miss my family more is that I can’t even see my friends,” she said.&nbsp;It’s
 why some university officials are doing their part to make students 
feel supported and connected at a distance. Alicia Sanchez, director of 
Wichita State’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, said she has always 
aimed to make her office a “home away from home” for students. And even 
if COVID-19 is keeping students locked in their real homes, Sanchez said
 that effort has not stopped — only changed.&nbsp;The office has 
taken to hosting video “webinars,” including one for Transgender Day of 
Visibility in March. It also plans to set up virtual office hours.&nbsp;“One
 of the things in our physical space that we pride ourselves on is being
 able to provide connections,” Sanchez said. “We feel like this is 
really important right now, especially for students who might feel 
isolated or need an opportunity to connect and just step away from, ya 
know, their academics for a little bit and be able to engage with their 
peers.”&nbsp;And business must go on, as Wisley learned. As a member 
of her school’s student government, the group had to have an emergency 
meeting to allocate 2020-21 student fees for campus organizations.&nbsp;“We absolutely had to get those passed before we left or else — we didn’t know how to do that via Zoom,” she said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Overcoming adversity’</h2>Navigating
 video-conferencing software like Zoom is a major challenge in online 
learning, especially for students who don’t have high-speed internet at 
home. Universities are trying to help bridge that gap by providing them 
mobile hotspots.&nbsp;Josh Wolf isn’t a professional educator just 
yet. The K-State senior is a student-teacher who’s been helping to 
create online coursework for a seventh grade social studies class at 
Eisenhower Middle School in Manhattan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586555607570.jpeg" alt=" Josh Wolf, who played trombone in K-State's marching band, will be trying to find a teaching job at the end of the semester. Credit Courtesy of Josh Wolf" />
 <figcaption> Josh Wolf, who played trombone in K-State's marching band, will be trying to find a teaching job at the end of the semester. Credit Courtesy of Josh Wolf</figcaption>
 </figure>Needless to say, he’s had an unusual first teaching experience. But 
he said he thinks it’ll ultimately make him a better teacher.&nbsp;“I
 don’t know necessarily if I’m ever gonna have to teach an online class 
again,” he said, “but I think the lessons to be learned about overcoming
 adversity in an education setting definitely is something valuable to 
me.”As someone who’s preparing to enter the workforce, he said 
he has some anxiety. In March alone, nearly 10 million Americans filed 
for unemployment; <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-sees-1000-surge-jobless-claims-covid-19-derails-economy#stream/0" target="_blank">Kansas reported a 1,000% increase in claims just in the third week of March.&nbsp;</a>But Wolf’s keeping a positive mindset, for himself and for his students.&nbsp;“You
 know, even if it takes a little bit, even if it is a rough and a little
 bit of a scary period,” he said, “I know and I believe that ultimately 
we will overcome all of this.”Daniel Caudill is a Statehouse intern for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/bydanielcaudill" target="_blank"> @byDanielCaudill</a>.
 The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public 
Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on the health and 
well-being of Kansans, their communities and civic life.&nbsp;

Kan. college students face uncertainty in changed world 

K-State food safety specialist outlines steps to protect food, customers

OLATHE – Kansas State University food safety specialist Londa Nwadike says that, right now, science is on the side of produce growers.

“There is currently no evidence that the novel coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, can be transmitted through food or food packaging,” said Nwadike, who has dual extension appointments with K-State and the University of Missouri.

That’s good news, she notes, for those hoping to sell their goods at local farmers’ markets, many of which are just days away from opening for the season. “And,” Nwadike said, “it’s good news for people who eat.”

In Kansas, Gov. Laura Kelly issued a statewide stay home order on March 28, limiting residents to those activities that are essential. Farmers’ markets supply food and services that are considered essential functions and, thus, are exempt from the order.

Even so, growers will be taxed to find new ways to sell foods at farmers’ markets while maintaining social distancing and other safety measures.

“A lot of what we’re talking about at farmers’ markets is what we do anyway, but there are additional things we are suggesting when we are talking about preventing the spread of COVID-19,” said Nwadike, who recently hosted three online sessions to provide safety tips and answer questions from growers in Kansas and Missouri.

The safety steps Nwadike is suggesting for farmers’ markets and produce growers selling food include:

As an example, the Downtown Topeka Farmers Market announced that it is moving ahead with plans to open on April 11. Organizers of that market say they will provide four hand washing stations and are encouraging vendors to set up an empty table between the customer and produce.

Nwadike said many of the same recommendations hold for so-called U-Pick operations in which customers are allowed to enter a grower’s farm and pick their own produce.

However for U-Pick operations, she adds, farmers are advised to limit the number of people on the property at one time.

“Communicate with your customers,” Nwadike said. “Ask them if they have symptoms or if they have been exposed to someone with a known COVID-19 case to please stay home.”

Roadside farm stands should follow similar safety measures. Farm stand operators should avoid taking back non-cleanable cartons or containers from customers (such as egg containers, and pre-portion packages before selling to reduce customer contact with produce.

Nwadike also said consumers should always wash produce when they get home. That includes washing the whole produce, even if you don’t eat the peel, and wash such items as cantaloupe and potatoes with a produce brush.

“All the research shows that clean, running water is the best way for consumers to wash produce,” Nwadike said. “Produce washes have not been shown to be more effective than clean, running water.”

Safety recommendations change regularly. For the most current information on the spread of COVID-19 and the government’s response, consumers should contact their local or state health department; or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/">U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.</a>

Nwadike and food safety colleague Karen Blakeslee are maintaining a web page to communicate&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/foodsafety/topics/covid19.html">food safety issues related to COVID-19</a>. K-State Research and Extension also provides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/foodsafety/produce">information that produce growers should always have in place</a>.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture also has published&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/page/farmers-market-resources">guidance for farmers’ markets regarding COVID-19</a>.

<h2>K-State food safety specialist outlines steps to protect food, customers</h2>OLATHE – Kansas State University food safety specialist Londa Nwadike says that, right now, science is on the side of produce growers.“There is currently no evidence that the novel coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, can be transmitted through food or food packaging,” said Nwadike, who has dual extension appointments with K-State and the University of Missouri.That’s good news, she notes, for those hoping to sell their goods at local farmers’ markets, many of which are just days away from opening for the season. “And,” Nwadike said, “it’s good news for people who eat.”In Kansas, Gov. Laura Kelly issued a statewide stay home order on March 28, limiting residents to those activities that are essential. Farmers’ markets supply food and services that are considered essential functions and, thus, are exempt from the order.Even so, growers will be taxed to find new ways to sell foods at farmers’ markets while maintaining social distancing and other safety measures.“A lot of what we’re talking about at farmers’ markets is what we do anyway, but there are additional things we are suggesting when we are talking about preventing the spread of COVID-19,” said Nwadike, who recently hosted three online sessions to provide safety tips and answer questions from growers in Kansas and Missouri.The safety steps Nwadike is suggesting for farmers’ markets and produce growers selling food include:<ol>
 <li>Place vendor tables further apart to allow more space for social distancing.</li><li>Do not serve unpackaged food as samples or for purchase. “What we recommend is that you either package your produce in a bag on a table in front of the vendor or the vendor keeps their produce behind them and bags it for the customer,” Nwadike said. Some markets or local health departments may not allow product samples at all.</li><li>Do not allow customers to touch produce before buying.</li><li>Provide hand washing and hand sanitizing stations.</li><li>Frequently clean and disinfect high touch surfaces.</li>
 </ol>As an example, the Downtown Topeka Farmers Market announced that it is moving ahead with plans to open on April 11. Organizers of that market say they will provide four hand washing stations and are encouraging vendors to set up an empty table between the customer and produce.Nwadike said many of the same recommendations hold for so-called U-Pick operations in which customers are allowed to enter a grower’s farm and pick their own produce.However for U-Pick operations, she adds, farmers are advised to limit the number of people on the property at one time.“Communicate with your customers,” Nwadike said. “Ask them if they have symptoms or if they have been exposed to someone with a known COVID-19 case to please stay home.”Roadside farm stands should follow similar safety measures. Farm stand operators should avoid taking back non-cleanable cartons or containers from customers (such as egg containers, and pre-portion packages before selling to reduce customer contact with produce.Nwadike also said consumers should always wash produce when they get home. That includes washing the whole produce, even if you don’t eat the peel, and wash such items as cantaloupe and potatoes with a produce brush.“All the research shows that clean, running water is the best way for consumers to wash produce,” Nwadike said. “Produce washes have not been shown to be more effective than clean, running water.”Safety recommendations change regularly. For the most current information on the spread of COVID-19 and the government’s response, consumers should contact their local or state health department; or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/">U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.</a>Nwadike and food safety colleague Karen Blakeslee are maintaining a web page to communicate&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/foodsafety/topics/covid19.html">food safety issues related to COVID-19</a>. K-State Research and Extension also provides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/foodsafety/produce">information that produce growers should always have in place</a>.The Kansas Department of Agriculture also has published&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/page/farmers-market-resources">guidance for farmers’ markets regarding COVID-19</a>.

Farmers’ market vendors prep for season amid COVID-19 concerns

By STEPHEN KORANDA, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-elections-move-ahead-scheduled-while-coronavirus-changes-game-candidates#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>'

LAWRENCE, Kansas — Tobias Wood is thinking twice 
about working at a polling place in Shawnee County this year. He’s done 
it since 2018, but now he’s practicing social distancing to help slow 
the spread of COVID-19.

He knows that might be difficult during elections, when he needs to handle people’s IDs and have voters sign in on a tablet.

“We don’t have control over what people come in with,” he said. “That’s something that really scares me.”

Kansas’ late primary — Aug. 3 — puts it in a less urgent position to either postpone it as <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/local-elections-delayed-covid-19-missouri-schools-plans-upgrade-buildings-put-hold#stream/0" target="_blank">Missouri</a> and other states did, or go forward with fewer polling places <a href="https://www.wpr.org/local-clerks-use-masks-gowns-gloves-protect-poll-workers-voters-covid-19" target="_blank">like Wisconsin</a>. It’s why Secretary of State Scott Schwab is avoiding major changes like rescheduling election dates.

“You’ve
 got to be really careful because you’re going to create voter confusion
 if you move the day,” said Schwab, who hopes the virus will have 
largely run its course by August. “That’s the biggest thing we’re trying
 to avoid is voter confusion.”

But there’s more to it: The new coronavirus is striking at a time 
when political candidates would normally be knocking on doors, shaking 
hands and speaking at public events. Kansas’ political parties are 
trying to fundraise and prepare for national conventions, one of which 
has <a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/04/02/825953889/democratic-national-convention-pushed-back-a-month-and-the-format-may-change" target="_blank">already been moved back.</a>

Kansas Democrats already changed their May 2 presidential primary to mail-in only. Schwab is urging people to <a href="https://sos.kansas.gov/elections/registration-voting/" target="_blank">request mail-in ballots</a> if they have concerns about going to the polls.

But
 there also are ways, he said, to space out voting machines and take 
other steps to comply with social distancing if it’s still needed.

“The biggest way to get more social distancing is for counties to offer more polling places,” he said.

Plus, Schwab is concerned that poll workers like Wood will sit out 
the August primary and November general election, which is why Kansas is
 looking to ramp up recruitment of poll workers.

More polling places and more workers comes with a cost. States have access to $400 million through<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/03/25/821521543/senate-coronavirus-bill-includes-400-million-to-protect-elections" target="_blank"> the coronavirus response bill</a>.
 But Venita Gupta, president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on 
Civil and Human Rights, thinks it’s not enough “for states to prepare 
for November and provide voters with a range of options for casting 
ballots.”

Her group is a coalition pushing for civil and human 
rights in the U.S., and it has joined others like the Brennan Center for
 Justice in asking Congress to approve another $1.6 billion to help 
states <a href="https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/estimated-costs-covid-19-election-resiliency-measures" target="_blank">make changes</a>
 in advance of the election. They’re asking Congress to include that in 
any additional coronavirus legislation, and the issue has come up in <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/04/05/vote-by-mail-election-coronavirus-164574" target="_blank">talks about future legislation</a>.

The Brennan Center is also <a href="https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/preparing-election-under-pandemic-conditions" target="_blank">urging new policies</a>
 to make voting more accessible during a pandemic. Some of the 
suggestions are already in place here, like online voter registration, 
early voting and mail-in ballots. But Kansas does not have online 
requests for absentee ballots or same-day voter registration.

Meanwhile, Kansas political parties are not waiting to make some crucial changes.

Kansas
 Democrats were gearing up for their first presidential primary, 
transitioning from a caucus system to a statewide ranked-choice ballot. 
But the coronavirus upended the party’s plans to accept mail-in ballots 
and open 50 in-person voting locations.

Instead, about 400,000 registered Democrats will receive <a href="https://apnews.com/457a93d4792a8d61420564ca4f496348" target="_blank">a ballot in the mail</a>.

“It’s
 certainly a difficult decision,” Kansas Democratic Party Executive 
Director Ben Meers said. “We were in a great place. Where other states 
had to postpone their elections, we were able to pivot to a vote by mail
 election.”

And Kansas Republicans had a deadline to elect their 
delegates for the national convention, so with short notice, they moved 
the process online to a Zoom meeting.

Leaders from both major 
political parties in Kansas say campaigns are replacing in-person town 
hall meetings with online or telephone gatherings. Similarly, 
fundraising has shifted more online and volunteers are working from 
their home rather than from a campaign office.

Campaigns also are shifting to advertising more online instead of TV.

“We’re
 all in the same boat right now, just doing what you can digitally,” 
Kansas Republican Party Executive Director Shannon Golden said. “Whether
 that’s digital advertisement, phone banking from home.”

Kansas 
Republicans had to quickly move the selection of delegates for the 
national convention online by Zoom meeting instead of in-person 
gatherings.

But there’s still some optimism that in-person and retail politics will resume as the August primary approaches.

“Hopefully,
 we’re back out there able to go with normal business, come June and 
July,” Golden said. “Obviously, we’ll have to see what happens.”

Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/kprkoranda" target="_blank"> @kprkoranda</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586715254925.jpeg" alt=" Voters at a Topeka polling place in 2019. Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Voters at a Topeka polling place in 2019. Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEPHEN KORANDA, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-elections-move-ahead-scheduled-while-coronavirus-changes-game-candidates#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>'LAWRENCE, Kansas — Tobias Wood is thinking twice 
about working at a polling place in Shawnee County this year. He’s done 
it since 2018, but now he’s practicing social distancing to help slow 
the spread of COVID-19.He knows that might be difficult during elections, when he needs to handle people’s IDs and have voters sign in on a tablet.“We don’t have control over what people come in with,” he said. “That’s something that really scares me.”Kansas’ late primary — Aug. 3 — puts it in a less urgent position to either postpone it as <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/local-elections-delayed-covid-19-missouri-schools-plans-upgrade-buildings-put-hold#stream/0" target="_blank">Missouri</a> and other states did, or go forward with fewer polling places <a href="https://www.wpr.org/local-clerks-use-masks-gowns-gloves-protect-poll-workers-voters-covid-19" target="_blank">like Wisconsin</a>. It’s why Secretary of State Scott Schwab is avoiding major changes like rescheduling election dates.“You’ve
 got to be really careful because you’re going to create voter confusion
 if you move the day,” said Schwab, who hopes the virus will have 
largely run its course by August. “That’s the biggest thing we’re trying
 to avoid is voter confusion.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586715324051.jpeg" alt=" Republican Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab says he's considering more polling places to make sure social distancing can happen during elections. Credit Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Republican Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab says he's considering more polling places to make sure social distancing can happen during elections. Credit Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>But there’s more to it: The new coronavirus is striking at a time 
when political candidates would normally be knocking on doors, shaking 
hands and speaking at public events. Kansas’ political parties are 
trying to fundraise and prepare for national conventions, one of which 
has <a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/04/02/825953889/democratic-national-convention-pushed-back-a-month-and-the-format-may-change" target="_blank">already been moved back.</a>Kansas Democrats already changed their May 2 presidential primary to mail-in only. Schwab is urging people to <a href="https://sos.kansas.gov/elections/registration-voting/" target="_blank">request mail-in ballots</a> if they have concerns about going to the polls.But
 there also are ways, he said, to space out voting machines and take 
other steps to comply with social distancing if it’s still needed.“The biggest way to get more social distancing is for counties to offer more polling places,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586715358264.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Plus, Schwab is concerned that poll workers like Wood will sit out 
the August primary and November general election, which is why Kansas is
 looking to ramp up recruitment of poll workers.More polling places and more workers comes with a cost. States have access to $400 million through<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/03/25/821521543/senate-coronavirus-bill-includes-400-million-to-protect-elections" target="_blank"> the coronavirus response bill</a>.
 But Venita Gupta, president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on 
Civil and Human Rights, thinks it’s not enough “for states to prepare 
for November and provide voters with a range of options for casting 
ballots.”Her group is a coalition pushing for civil and human 
rights in the U.S., and it has joined others like the Brennan Center for
 Justice in asking Congress to approve another $1.6 billion to help 
states <a href="https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/estimated-costs-covid-19-election-resiliency-measures" target="_blank">make changes</a>
 in advance of the election. They’re asking Congress to include that in 
any additional coronavirus legislation, and the issue has come up in <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/04/05/vote-by-mail-election-coronavirus-164574" target="_blank">talks about future legislation</a>.The Brennan Center is also <a href="https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/preparing-election-under-pandemic-conditions" target="_blank">urging new policies</a>
 to make voting more accessible during a pandemic. Some of the 
suggestions are already in place here, like online voter registration, 
early voting and mail-in ballots. But Kansas does not have online 
requests for absentee ballots or same-day voter registration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586715392128.jpeg" alt=" Shawnee County Election Commissioner Andrew Howell tests a voting machine in 2019. Credit Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service photo" />
 <figcaption> Shawnee County Election Commissioner Andrew Howell tests a voting machine in 2019. Credit Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Meanwhile, Kansas political parties are not waiting to make some crucial changes.Kansas
 Democrats were gearing up for their first presidential primary, 
transitioning from a caucus system to a statewide ranked-choice ballot. 
But the coronavirus upended the party’s plans to accept mail-in ballots 
and open 50 in-person voting locations.Instead, about 400,000 registered Democrats will receive <a href="https://apnews.com/457a93d4792a8d61420564ca4f496348" target="_blank">a ballot in the mail</a>.“It’s
 certainly a difficult decision,” Kansas Democratic Party Executive 
Director Ben Meers said. “We were in a great place. Where other states 
had to postpone their elections, we were able to pivot to a vote by mail
 election.”And Kansas Republicans had a deadline to elect their 
delegates for the national convention, so with short notice, they moved 
the process online to a Zoom meeting.Leaders from both major 
political parties in Kansas say campaigns are replacing in-person town 
hall meetings with online or telephone gatherings. Similarly, 
fundraising has shifted more online and volunteers are working from 
their home rather than from a campaign office.Campaigns also are shifting to advertising more online instead of TV.“We’re
 all in the same boat right now, just doing what you can digitally,” 
Kansas Republican Party Executive Director Shannon Golden said. “Whether
 that’s digital advertisement, phone banking from home.”Kansas 
Republicans had to quickly move the selection of delegates for the 
national convention online by Zoom meeting instead of in-person 
gatherings.But there’s still some optimism that in-person and retail politics will resume as the August primary approaches.“Hopefully,
 we’re back out there able to go with normal business, come June and 
July,” Golden said. “Obviously, we’ll have to see what happens.”Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/kprkoranda" target="_blank"> @kprkoranda</a>.

Kan. elections move ahead, while virus changes game for candidates 

Because of the COVID-19 virus situation, the local mail carriers will not be doing their annual food drive, so Eagle Radio of Hays decided to help out.

In association with the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays, the Community Assistance Center is having a cash drive to replenish the shelves in their food pantry.&nbsp; Through April 22, all money collected by the Community Assistance Center will be matched&nbsp;by the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays up to $5,000 each.

That’s $10,000 in matching funds.&nbsp;

Mail or drop off a check or cash donation by the Community Assistance Center, 208 East 12th in Hays.&nbsp; The staff is there until noon each day Monday through Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Because of the COVID-19 virus situation, the local mail carriers will not be doing their annual food drive, so Eagle Radio of Hays decided to help out.In association with the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays, the Community Assistance Center is having a cash drive to replenish the shelves in their food pantry.&nbsp; Through April 22, all money collected by the Community Assistance Center will be matched&nbsp;by the Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays up to $5,000 each.That’s $10,000 in matching funds.&nbsp;Mail or drop off a check or cash donation by the Community Assistance Center, 208 East 12th in Hays.&nbsp; The staff is there until noon each day Monday through Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schmidt Foundation and The Bank of Hays match food drive donations

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

Normally at this time, the Fort Hays State baseball and
softball teams would be gearing up for the final month of their regular season and
the track and field team would be working on improving their marks in an effort
to qualify for the national championships. Instead the ballfields and the track
are silent due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Tiger baseball and softball teams were just starting MIAA
play and the track and field team was getting ready for their first outdoor
meet of the season when the NCAA canceled all spring sports.

Jerod Goodale’s Tiger baseball team found out their season
was coming to an end in the middle of a home doubleheader with No. 2 Central
Missouri.

“I started getting a little bit worried the night before
when I saw the Ivy League canceled the rest of their season,” Goodale said. “I
just didn’t think it would happen that quick. In between a doubleheader, you
find out this is it. It was a lot to process for the players, the coaches, the
parents — for everybody.”

The FHSU softball team was in Claremore, Okla., and had wrapped
up a doubleheader with No. 17 Rogers State when they got word it was the last
they would play this season.

“It was just so abrupt,” said head softball coach Adrian
Pilkington. “It was something we were kind of talking about as coaches. I guess
I just didn’t expect it to be this abrupt and extensive.”

All if the athletic teams at Fort Hays State have been affected
one way or another by the shutdown, but those that compete in the spring have an
added element to deal with. The NCAA has ruled that spring sports
student-athletes will be granted an additional season of eligibility, so that
means determining who is returning and who is not and balancing that with their
incoming recruiting class.

Goodale had only six seniors on his
roster and he said it won’t be as big of a problem for him. Goodale, who is in
his second year as head coach at FHSU, has talked to some of his coaching colleagues
who are dealing with a large senior class opting to return as well as a large
incoming recruiting class that was set to replace them. 

Through all of this, Goodale feels it’s the high school seniors
that will suffer.

“It’s awful timing for them,” Goodale said of the high
school seniors. “There’s going to be a lot of guys that probably don’t end up
getting a chance to play college baseball.”

Of the six seniors on the FHSU roster, three are taking
advantage of the additional year and will be back next season, two are not coming
back and one is still deciding.

“I think the junior colleges will benefit the most from it,”
Goodale said. “I think you’ll see the best product of college baseball in all
levels this next year with all of those guys coming back.”

It’s a little different situation for Fort Hays State softball
coach Adrian Pilkington, who had seven seniors on her 19-player roster this
spring. Pilkington had only signed three recruits for 2021, so when six of her
seniors decided to take advantage of the extra season, it wasn’t a problem.

“That part ended up being a bit of a blessing in disguise
for us,” Pilkington said. “Those kids coming back we’re welcoming back with
open arms. Some of these seniors coming back actually fill some of the voids we
were needing to replace with recruits.”

Pilkington also feels the extra year granted by the NCAA will
have a trickle-down effect to the high school level, including the current
junior class set to graduate in 2021.

“For those kids within our program, if they do take a year
of relief outside of seniors, we’re looking to push back our recruiting needs,”
Pilkington said. “We’ve just yet to see the implications of it.”

Head track and field coach Jason McCullough has a bigger
roster than baseball and softball, with 88 student-athletes on his men’s
and women’s roster — 18 seniors among them. McCullough expects some to take
advantage of the extra year but a good number who won’t, especially those who already
had jobs lined up following graduation.

“I always encourage their academics to come first,”
McCullough said. “If they have a good job waiting for them or a good
opportunity waiting for them this year, that’s something I encourage them to
take.”

McCullough added that for many seniors, returning means seeking
another major or starting post-graduate education. 

“The big challenge is
balancing the scholarships from year to year. We expect certain athletes to
fall off of scholarships when we bring new athletes on,” he said.

Cover photo courtesy FHSU Athletics

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586547729931.png" alt="Larks Park / FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Larks Park / FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays PostNormally at this time, the Fort Hays State baseball and
softball teams would be gearing up for the final month of their regular season and
the track and field team would be working on improving their marks in an effort
to qualify for the national championships. Instead the ballfields and the track
are silent due to the COVID-19 outbreak.The Tiger baseball and softball teams were just starting MIAA
play and the track and field team was getting ready for their first outdoor
meet of the season when the NCAA canceled all spring sports.Jerod Goodale’s Tiger baseball team found out their season
was coming to an end in the middle of a home doubleheader with No. 2 Central
Missouri.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586527176314.jpeg" alt="Jerod Goodale" />
 <figcaption>Jerod Goodale</figcaption>
 </figure>“I started getting a little bit worried the night before
when I saw the Ivy League canceled the rest of their season,” Goodale said. “I
just didn’t think it would happen that quick. In between a doubleheader, you
find out this is it. It was a lot to process for the players, the coaches, the
parents — for everybody.”The FHSU softball team was in Claremore, Okla., and had wrapped
up a doubleheader with No. 17 Rogers State when they got word it was the last
they would play this season.“It was just so abrupt,” said head softball coach Adrian
Pilkington. “It was something we were kind of talking about as coaches. I guess
I just didn’t expect it to be this abrupt and extensive.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586527251217.jpeg" alt="Adrian Pilkington" />
 <figcaption>Adrian Pilkington</figcaption>
 </figure>All if the athletic teams at Fort Hays State have been affected
one way or another by the shutdown, but those that compete in the spring have an
added element to deal with. The NCAA has ruled that spring sports
student-athletes will be granted an additional season of eligibility, so that
means determining who is returning and who is not and balancing that with their
incoming recruiting class.Goodale had only six seniors on his
roster and he said it won’t be as big of a problem for him. Goodale, who is in
his second year as head coach at FHSU, has talked to some of his coaching colleagues
who are dealing with a large senior class opting to return as well as a large
incoming recruiting class that was set to replace them. Through all of this, Goodale feels it’s the high school seniors
that will suffer.“It’s awful timing for them,” Goodale said of the high
school seniors. “There’s going to be a lot of guys that probably don’t end up
getting a chance to play college baseball.”Of the six seniors on the FHSU roster, three are taking
advantage of the additional year and will be back next season, two are not coming
back and one is still deciding.“I think the junior colleges will benefit the most from it,”
Goodale said. “I think you’ll see the best product of college baseball in all
levels this next year with all of those guys coming back.”<h2>Most FHSU softball seniors to return</h2>It’s a little different situation for Fort Hays State softball
coach Adrian Pilkington, who had seven seniors on her 19-player roster this
spring. Pilkington had only signed three recruits for 2021, so when six of her
seniors decided to take advantage of the extra season, it wasn’t a problem.“That part ended up being a bit of a blessing in disguise
for us,” Pilkington said. “Those kids coming back we’re welcoming back with
open arms. Some of these seniors coming back actually fill some of the voids we
were needing to replace with recruits.”Pilkington also feels the extra year granted by the NCAA will
have a trickle-down effect to the high school level, including the current
junior class set to graduate in 2021.“For those kids within our program, if they do take a year
of relief outside of seniors, we’re looking to push back our recruiting needs,”
Pilkington said. “We’ve just yet to see the implications of it.”<h2>Track and field a bigger beast</h2>Head track and field coach Jason McCullough has a bigger
roster than baseball and softball, with 88 student-athletes on his men’s
and women’s roster — 18 seniors among them. McCullough expects some to take
advantage of the extra year but a good number who won’t, especially those who already
had jobs lined up following graduation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586527487439.jpeg" alt="Jason McCullough" />
 <figcaption>Jason McCullough</figcaption>
 </figure>“I always encourage their academics to come first,”
McCullough said. “If they have a good job waiting for them or a good
opportunity waiting for them this year, that’s something I encourage them to
take.”McCullough added that for many seniors, returning means seeking
another major or starting post-graduate education. “The big challenge is
balancing the scholarships from year to year. We expect certain athletes to
fall off of scholarships when we bring new athletes on,” he said.Cover photo courtesy FHSU Athletics

Fort Hays State coaches deal with shutdown

Like so much else going on, the Post Podcast has been disrupted by the coronavirus and the precautionary measures put in place.

About a month ago, we were gearing up to begin releasing, longer, more regional podcasts on a variety of topics.

Guests were lined up and everything was in place.

Then as COVID-19 precautionary measures expanded, the studio was closed to visitors and everything was put on hold.

But the first one had been recorded, where I had an interesting conversation with music promoter, producer and founder of the Rockalooa music festival Matt Isley and his Dangerously Biased bandmate Sophi Thompson.

They had a record release show planned, for their first EP self-titled, but like the longer podcasts, that show was scrapped.

But they released the album anyway, and even though everybody’s plans changed, I still had the podcast about the current music scene in rural Kansas recorded.

So in the old tradition of "the show must go on," we put the podcast together, with a little tweaking.

The self-titled album was released and is currently available for download, but with a little luck, they will be back on the road soon, where you can hear their music live.

As for the bigger podcast project, once life returns to normal the project will be picked back up. In the meantime, our regular content will continue.

To get the latest from the Post Podcast subscribe to the Podbean service or follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Post-Podcast-102915661307591/?modal=admin_todo_tour">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/thehayspostpod1">Twitter</a>.

You can continue to get all of our content through Hays Post, as well.

You can find links to social media, music and videos of Dangerously Biased at their website&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dangerouslybiased.com/bio">dangerouslybiased.com</a>.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast LP: Track 1, Matt Isley and Sophie Thompson" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/8pnkb-d8a18e?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostLike so much else going on, the Post Podcast has been disrupted by the coronavirus and the precautionary measures put in place.About a month ago, we were gearing up to begin releasing, longer, more regional podcasts on a variety of topics.Guests were lined up and everything was in place.Then as COVID-19 precautionary measures expanded, the studio was closed to visitors and everything was put on hold.But the first one had been recorded, where I had an interesting conversation with music promoter, producer and founder of the Rockalooa music festival Matt Isley and his Dangerously Biased bandmate Sophi Thompson.They had a record release show planned, for their first EP self-titled, but like the longer podcasts, that show was scrapped.But they released the album anyway, and even though everybody’s plans changed, I still had the podcast about the current music scene in rural Kansas recorded.So in the old tradition of "the show must go on," we put the podcast together, with a little tweaking.The self-titled album was released and is currently available for download, but with a little luck, they will be back on the road soon, where you can hear their music live.As for the bigger podcast project, once life returns to normal the project will be picked back up. In the meantime, our regular content will continue.To get the latest from the Post Podcast subscribe to the Podbean service or follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Post-Podcast-102915661307591/?modal=admin_todo_tour">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/thehayspostpod1">Twitter</a>.You can continue to get all of our content through Hays Post, as well.You can find links to social media, music and videos of Dangerously Biased at their website&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dangerouslybiased.com/bio">dangerouslybiased.com</a>.

🎤Post Podcast LP Track 1: Matt Isley and Sophi Thompson

Fort Hays State's Gross Coliseum has been voted the nation's No.1 Division II arena.

Normally T3 Bracketology would have been predicting NCAA brackets using various metrics, but with no tournament, the website had a little fun and made their own brackets for best arenas in the country.

Through Twitter, the website set up brackets for what they determined to be the 16 best arenas in NCAA Division I, II and III as well as junior college. 

The voting criteria was best facility coupled with the best atmosphere. Fan voting was used to determine the winners in each ro

Gross Coliseum beat out Bellarmine's (Ky.) Knight's Hall in the Sweet 16 then edged Emporia State's White Auditorium 53%-47% in the quarterfinals. 

In the semifinals, fans voted 81%-19% in favor of GMC over Southwestern Oklahoma State's Pioneer Cellular Event Center.

The finals pitted the Coliseum against Drury's O'Reilly Family Event Center which it defeated by a landslide.

KU's Allen Fieldhouse was named the best Division I arena.

Fort Hays State's Gross Coliseum has been voted the nation's No.1 Division II arena.Normally T3 Bracketology would have been predicting NCAA brackets using various metrics, but with no tournament, the website had a little fun and made their own brackets for best arenas in the country.Through Twitter, the website set up brackets for what they determined to be the 16 best arenas in NCAA Division I, II and III as well as junior college. The voting criteria was best facility coupled with the best atmosphere. Fan voting was used to determine the winners in each ro<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586646778461.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gross Coliseum beat out Bellarmine's (Ky.) Knight's Hall in the Sweet 16 then edged Emporia State's White Auditorium 53%-47% in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, fans voted 81%-19% in favor of GMC over Southwestern Oklahoma State's Pioneer Cellular Event Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586646524370.jpeg" alt="A sellout crowd watches FHSU and Nebraska-Kearney to close out the 2005-06 regular season. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>A sellout crowd watches FHSU and Nebraska-Kearney to close out the 2005-06 regular season. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>The finals pitted the Coliseum against Drury's O'Reilly Family Event Center which it defeated by a landslide.KU's Allen Fieldhouse was named the best Division I arena.

Gross Coliseum voted No. 1 arena in Division II

The Eagle Radio of Hays Online Auction is currently underway!

There are several great items to bid on including:

BOS Motorsports 2019 Polaris Outlaw 110

Retail Price $3399 &nbsp; Current bid $2,000

Perfect for the outdoor princess! This brand new carry-over 2019 Polaris 110 is grey and pink and comes with the safety that you want. A helmet, safety flag, safety tether switch, and governor to slow or accel speeds. This grey and pink 2019 Polaris 110 is recommended for ages 10 and up also has a 6 month warranty. See it in person, stop in to BOS Motorsports, home of Bob-Cat zero turn riding mowers and Polaris!&nbsp;



BTI (Ness City) 850 cubic inch D1 Timberline Traegor wood pellet Grill

Retail Price $1699 &nbsp; Current bid $1,200

The premier outdoor cooking solution, the Traeger Timberline WiFi pellet grill pushes the limits of what's possible in grilling technology. Enjoy unrivaled wood-fired flavor, every time you fire up the mighty Timberline. Features include 800 cubic inches of cooking area, Timberline D1 Controller, WiFIRE Technology, where the grill can be run by your phone, Timberline D1 Direct Drive, TurboTemp, Three tiers of stainless steel grates, Double wall stainless steel interior, Pellet Sensor, Magnetic Bamboo Cutting Board and Concealed Grease Management System.



Century Stone $1620 Certificate &nbsp; Current bid $680

Improve the look of your home with stone accents from Century Stone of Hays. Choose from a great selection of colors and designs. Great for new home construction, home remodeling, fireplaces, retaining walls, commercial property and more. Certificate is good for Approximately 90 feet. And includes installation. All stone has a 50 year warranty. May not apply this certificate to current account balance. Valid through October 31st 2020. Century Stone Of Hays. 785-261-1771.

Chroma Quilting $250 Certificate &nbsp; Current bid $135

Enjoy $250 towards the creation of something super special just for you. This gift is an opportunity to keep your memories and experiences alive. Use it towards your choice of any Chroma Quilting Services and Products. Chroma quilting specializes in long arm quilting services, completed t-shirt quilts, memory quilts, quilt repair and finishing, machine binding, t-shirt processing, memory pillows and creating product from clothing.

Retail Price $250 &nbsp; Current bid $178

Hiland Outdoor Fire Pit. Features 40,000 BTU’S, 24 inches tall, table top 30” x 30”, Burner size 10” x 10”. Stainless steel lid. Includes Fire glass, CSA regulator and hose. And easy access propane tank door. Heating area approx. 15 square feet. Propane fire pit in Hammered Bronze.

Ellis Golf Club NEW Single Membership

Retail Price $480 &nbsp; Current bid $254

It’s time to tee it up for the entire year…..Golfers, or golfers to be, this is for you….Ellis Golf Club has the nicest, most plush watered fairways, along with a challenging 9 holes of golf, and a Clubhouse second to none that can take care of your hunger and thirst before during and after your round. This New membership is for a new member at Ellis Golf Club that hasn’t been a member in 2018 or 2019…and allows you to play all year long. The Ellis Golf Club has NEW LOWER MEMBERSHIP rates for this year, and tee times are never required.

Fitzgerald Furniture Grandfather Clock

Retail Price $636 &nbsp; Current bid $290

Manufactured by Coaster Company of America, this beautiful Grandfather Clock is 81 inches tall X 20 inches wide. It's made with Asian hardwood and veneers, is battery powered and the chimes are soft.

Grainfield Supply 5 Continuous Fence Panels

Retail Price $525 &nbsp; Current bid $320

Farmers and Ranchers....bid on 5 six-bar continuous fence panels from Grainfield Supply. The fence panels are 4-feet high by 20 feet long with 1 ¼ round 14-gauge steel. Connectors come with the panels. Panels are manufactured at Grainfield Supply. Grainfield Supply, 4649 Old Hwy 40 in Grainfield 785-673-4321

My Favorite Furnishings 72" Dining Table with 4 Chairs

Retail Price $1000 &nbsp; Current bid $290

This is a beautiful dining table from My Favorite Furnishings in Larned. It is 72” and includes 4 chairs. The table is in a medium brown and has a textured top. Larned is just a short drive away and you will find everything from furniture, appliances, mattresses, flooring, to home decor. You will find them open Monday through Saturday and open late on Thursdays until 7 pm. The perfect place to shop for every room in your home.&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/eagle-radio-auction">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see all the latest deals from local merchants.

Register, bid and buy from the comfort of your own home!

The Eagle Radio of Hays Online Auction is currently underway!There are several great items to bid on including:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584030674288.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BOS Motorsports 2019 Polaris Outlaw 110Retail Price $3399 &nbsp; Current bid $2,000 Perfect for the outdoor princess! This brand new carry-over 2019 Polaris 110 is grey and pink and comes with the safety that you want. A helmet, safety flag, safety tether switch, and governor to slow or accel speeds. This grey and pink 2019 Polaris 110 is recommended for ages 10 and up also has a 6 month warranty. See it in person, stop in to BOS Motorsports, home of Bob-Cat zero turn riding mowers and Polaris!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582304824855.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BTI (Ness City) 850 cubic inch D1 Timberline Traegor wood pellet GrillRetail Price $1699 &nbsp; Current bid $1,200 The premier outdoor cooking solution, the Traeger Timberline WiFi pellet grill pushes the limits of what's possible in grilling technology. Enjoy unrivaled wood-fired flavor, every time you fire up the mighty Timberline. Features include 800 cubic inches of cooking area, Timberline D1 Controller, WiFIRE Technology, where the grill can be run by your phone, Timberline D1 Direct Drive, TurboTemp, Three tiers of stainless steel grates, Double wall stainless steel interior, Pellet Sensor, Magnetic Bamboo Cutting Board and Concealed Grease Management System.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582914097608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Century Stone $1620 Certificate &nbsp; Current bid $680 Improve the look of your home with stone accents from Century Stone of Hays. Choose from a great selection of colors and designs. Great for new home construction, home remodeling, fireplaces, retaining walls, commercial property and more. Certificate is good for Approximately 90 feet. And includes installation. All stone has a 50 year warranty. May not apply this certificate to current account balance. Valid through October 31st 2020. Century Stone Of Hays. 785-261-1771.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582041565428.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chroma Quilting $250 Certificate &nbsp; Current bid $135 Enjoy $250 towards the creation of something super special just for you. This gift is an opportunity to keep your memories and experiences alive. Use it towards your choice of any Chroma Quilting Services and Products. Chroma quilting specializes in long arm quilting services, completed t-shirt quilts, memory quilts, quilt repair and finishing, machine binding, t-shirt processing, memory pillows and creating product from clothing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583950897793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Crawford Outdoor Fire PitRetail Price $250 &nbsp; Current bid $178 Hiland Outdoor Fire Pit. Features 40,000 BTU’S, 24 inches tall, table top 30” x 30”, Burner size 10” x 10”. Stainless steel lid. Includes Fire glass, CSA regulator and hose. And easy access propane tank door. Heating area approx. 15 square feet. Propane fire pit in Hammered Bronze.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585066840038.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis Golf Club NEW Single MembershipRetail Price $480 &nbsp; Current bid $254 It’s time to tee it up for the entire year…..Golfers, or golfers to be, this is for you….Ellis Golf Club has the nicest, most plush watered fairways, along with a challenging 9 holes of golf, and a Clubhouse second to none that can take care of your hunger and thirst before during and after your round. This New membership is for a new member at Ellis Golf Club that hasn’t been a member in 2018 or 2019…and allows you to play all year long. The Ellis Golf Club has NEW LOWER MEMBERSHIP rates for this year, and tee times are never required.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583345000242.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fitzgerald Furniture Grandfather ClockRetail Price $636 &nbsp; Current bid $290 Manufactured by Coaster Company of America, this beautiful Grandfather Clock is 81 inches tall X 20 inches wide. It's made with Asian hardwood and veneers, is battery powered and the chimes are soft.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584636063853.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grainfield Supply 5 Continuous Fence PanelsRetail Price $525 &nbsp; Current bid $320 Farmers and Ranchers....bid on 5 six-bar continuous fence panels from Grainfield Supply. The fence panels are 4-feet high by 20 feet long with 1 ¼ round 14-gauge steel. Connectors come with the panels. Panels are manufactured at Grainfield Supply. Grainfield Supply, 4649 Old Hwy 40 in Grainfield 785-673-4321<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583430405446.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>My Favorite Furnishings 72" Dining Table with 4 ChairsRetail Price $1000 &nbsp; Current bid $290 This is a beautiful dining table from My Favorite Furnishings in Larned. It is 72” and includes 4 chairs. The table is in a medium brown and has a textured top. Larned is just a short drive away and you will find everything from furniture, appliances, mattresses, flooring, to home decor. You will find them open Monday through Saturday and open late on Thursdays until 7 pm. The perfect place to shop for every room in your home.&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/eagle-radio-auction">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see all the latest deals from local merchants.Register, bid and buy from the comfort of your own home!

Eagle Radio Online Auction is underway!

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The stage is dark and no audience members are in the seats at the Hays Community Theatre.

Precautions in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak have resulted in HCT canceling or postponing all of its upcoming performances.

This included performances of "Miss Buchanan's Deadly Inheritance," a dinner theater that was scheduled for March 27-28 and the postponement of "Picasso at the Lapin Agile," which was set for April 17-19 and April 25-26.

Because of the lost revenue from the smaller shows this spring, the HCT board also voted within the last week to cancel its annual summer production, which was set to be "Cinderella."

The licensing is expensive for the these large shows, in addition to substantial cost of renting Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center, board member Andy Stanton said.

HCT normally would have been scheduling auditions for the summer production in April.

HCT has also lost show sponsorships from businesses who&nbsp; bought ads in its programs.

Without any revenue coming in, HCT is using what little money it has on hand to pay utilities and the mortgage on its building in the former Eagle's Lodge at 121 E. Eighth.

&nbsp;"Until we can get things back open to have performances, the&nbsp; money we have in the bank is being used for utility bills for the next few months. After that, we are going to be in dire straights," Stanton said.

"We put out a fundraising appeal to people who have been to performances. Until we can open up to large groups, we need some help."

Gene Stramel, HCT board president, issued a plea&nbsp;in an online letter to patrons to make direct donations to HCT so the theater can keep paying its bills until it can reopen its doors to audiences.

You can donate to HCT through PayPal. There is a donate button on the HCT website at <a href="http://www.hctks.com">hctks.com</a>. Donors can also send checks to HCT,&nbsp;PO Box 21, Hays, KS 67601.

Stanton said the HCT board hopes to reopen before the end of the year and have enough small performances to support its large December production of "Elf the Musical."

"The whole purpose for community theater is for people to get experience as actors and people to get experience in theater management and for audiences to enjoy productions that are locally produced," Stanton said. "We are a nonprofit. We are not here rake in dough. We are here to provide a service in community.

"Any profits we get from shows, we put back into shows or in the theatre itself."

HCT was already facing issues with a failing HVAC system. Stanton said the board is hoping it will hold out until the theater can get back on its feet.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580784500672.jpeg" alt=""My Deadly Valentine" was Hays Community Theatre's last performance before it was forced to close as a precaution against the spread of the coronavirus." />
 <figcaption>"My Deadly Valentine" was Hays Community Theatre's last performance before it was forced to close as a precaution against the spread of the coronavirus.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe stage is dark and no audience members are in the seats at the Hays Community Theatre.Precautions in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak have resulted in HCT canceling or postponing all of its upcoming performances.This included performances of "Miss Buchanan's Deadly Inheritance," a dinner theater that was scheduled for March 27-28 and the postponement of "Picasso at the Lapin Agile," which was set for April 17-19 and April 25-26.<h2>Summer production canceled</h2>Because of the lost revenue from the smaller shows this spring, the HCT board also voted within the last week to cancel its annual summer production, which was set to be "Cinderella."The licensing is expensive for the these large shows, in addition to substantial cost of renting Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center, board member Andy Stanton said.HCT normally would have been scheduling auditions for the summer production in April.HCT has also lost show sponsorships from businesses who&nbsp; bought ads in its programs.Without any revenue coming in, HCT is using what little money it has on hand to pay utilities and the mortgage on its building in the former Eagle's Lodge at 121 E. Eighth.&nbsp;"Until we can get things back open to have performances, the&nbsp; money we have in the bank is being used for utility bills for the next few months. After that, we are going to be in dire straights," Stanton said."We put out a fundraising appeal to people who have been to performances. Until we can open up to large groups, we need some help."<h2>Call for donations</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586374274897.png" alt="Theater patron can donate to HCT online at <a href="http://www.hctks.com/">hctks.com</a>." />
 <figcaption>Theater patron can donate to HCT online at <a href="http://www.hctks.com/">hctks.com</a>.</figcaption>
 </figure>Gene Stramel, HCT board president, issued a plea&nbsp;in an online letter to patrons to make direct donations to HCT so the theater can keep paying its bills until it can reopen its doors to audiences.You can donate to HCT through PayPal. There is a donate button on the HCT website at <a href="http://www.hctks.com">hctks.com</a>. Donors can also send checks to HCT,&nbsp;PO Box 21, Hays, KS 67601.Stanton said the HCT board hopes to reopen before the end of the year and have enough small performances to support its large December production of "Elf the Musical.""The whole purpose for community theater is for people to get experience as actors and people to get experience in theater management and for audiences to enjoy productions that are locally produced," Stanton said. "We are a nonprofit. We are not here rake in dough. We are here to provide a service in community."Any profits we get from shows, we put back into shows or in the theatre itself."HCT's board is all volunteer.HCT was already facing issues with a failing HVAC system. Stanton said the board is hoping it will hold out until the theater can get back on its feet.&nbsp;"We are hoping we don't have any major expenses, and we are not taking any chances on anything we might lose money on," he said.HCT's lender is working with the nonprofit, Stanton said, and HCT is researching an application for federal stimulus funds from the Small Business Administration.<h2>Together but apart for rehearsals</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586374171166.jpeg" alt="HCT's performance of "Picasso at the Lapin Agile" has been postponed, but the cast is still rehearsing online." />
 <figcaption>HCT's performance of "Picasso at the Lapin Agile" has been postponed, but the cast is still rehearsing online.</figcaption>
 </figure>Although performances of&nbsp;"Picasso at the Lapin Agile" had to be postponed, HCT still hopes to stage the production when the theater reopens.The cast and crew of 12 are meeting online to rehearse. Although the cast can't block the play, they are still staying sharp for what they hope will be a post-corona performance."That has been good for us to still be able to connect," Stanton said, who will portray Gaston, a bar patron in the play.The play is written by Steve Martin and is the fictional account of what might have happened if Picasso and Einstein had walked into a Paris bar right before each were launched into fame in their respective fields."When we do finally get to perform 'Picasso at the Lapin Agile,' it will be a must-see," Stanton said. "It's truly a funny play."We are all waiting. We hope to get this show produced. It is going to be something great for all of our patrons, and we can laugh when we are all through with this."If you have specific questions about HCT, email contact@hctks.com.

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