The Hays Department of
Water Resources, in partnership with the Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners, is seeking nominations for the 2020 WaterSmart Landscape
Award Program.

Since 2016, one residential and
one commercial property has been chosen to receive a WaterSmart
Landscape Award.&nbsp; The goal of this award
program is to increase awareness of the importance of water conservation in the landscape and to
recognize those in the community that have made great strides towards that effort.

A WaterSmart Landscape involves
more than just watering plants correctly. It is actually the combination of
several gardening principles that together create a landscape that not only conserves water but is
creative and beautiful as well.

&nbsp;The principles of a WaterSmart Landscape include:

1) Planning and Design 2) Soil Preparation 3) Right Plants in
the Right Place 4) Practical Turf
Areas 5) Efficient
Irrigation 6) Proper Mulch &nbsp;7) Proper Maintenance

• Landscape must exemplify WaterSmart Landscaping • Nominee must be within the city limits of Hays, KS • Selected WaterSmart Landscape must be visible to the public • WaterSmart Landscape must have been installed at least one year prior to nomination to show healthy establishment and proper care&nbsp;

Nomination forms
can be found at &nbsp;<a href="http://www.watersmarthays.com">www.watersmarthays.com</a>. Submit nominations no later than June 12, 2020 to Holly Dickman,
Water Conservation Specialist, 1002 Vine St., Hays, KS 67601 or <a href="mailto:hdickman@haysusa.com">hdickman@haysusa.com</a>.

Finalists will be contacted to schedule an on-site visit. &nbsp;Winners will be notified by July 6 and will be presented with
a landscape plaque and a certificate during a regularly scheduled Hays City Commission meeting in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentID=2611" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Department of
Water Resources, in partnership with the Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners, is seeking nominations for the 2020 WaterSmart Landscape
Award Program.Since 2016, one residential and
one commercial property has been chosen to receive a WaterSmart
Landscape Award.&nbsp; The goal of this award
program is to increase awareness of the importance of water conservation in the landscape and to
recognize those in the community that have made great strides towards that effort.A WaterSmart Landscape involves
more than just watering plants correctly. It is actually the combination of
several gardening principles that together create a landscape that not only conserves water but is
creative and beautiful as well.&nbsp;The principles of a WaterSmart Landscape include:1) Planning and Design 2) Soil Preparation 3) Right Plants in
the Right Place 4) Practical Turf
Areas 5) Efficient
Irrigation 6) Proper Mulch &nbsp;7) Proper MaintenanceNomination requirements:• Landscape must exemplify WaterSmart Landscaping • Nominee must be within the city limits of Hays, KS • Selected WaterSmart Landscape must be visible to the public • WaterSmart Landscape must have been installed at least one year prior to nomination to show healthy establishment and proper care&nbsp;Nomination forms
can be found at &nbsp;<a href="http://www.watersmarthays.com">www.watersmarthays.com</a>. Submit nominations no later than June 12, 2020 to Holly Dickman,
Water Conservation Specialist, 1002 Vine St., Hays, KS 67601 or <a href="mailto:hdickman@haysusa.com">hdickman@haysusa.com</a>.Finalists will be contacted to schedule an on-site visit. &nbsp;Winners will be notified by July 6 and will be presented with
a landscape plaque and a certificate during a regularly scheduled Hays City Commission meeting in July.&nbsp;

WaterSmart Landscape Award nominations sought

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ea0bd28eb7f1705360339b9">The international film "A Quiet America," which was broadcast on Eagle and Nex-Tech cable systems last month</a>, is now available in its entirety on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/quiet-america">Hays Arts Council's website.</a>

Rights to show the film were secured by the council to offset some of the programming canceled during COVID-19 precautionary shutdowns.

"We have been here in the trenches at the arts council during this whole thing trying to work on programs and projects and try to have things available for the community and stay relevant," said Brenda Meder, HAC executive director.

She said the broadcasts went well and had made contact with senior centers in the area prior to the broadcast.

"People seemed to really enjoy getting to see it," Meder said. "It was wonderful to have it go out to so many of our senior citizens."

But now it is available online at the Hays Arts Council website for anyone who would like to watch the entire film.

"It continues to be made available," Meder said, "so anybody that didn't see it, or anybody that doesn't have local cable television is able to watch it."

The 2015 companion video is also available on the website.

"It was something we wanted to bring back for the community in light of all of the things we couldn't do at the time," Meder said.

<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/quiet-america">The film can be found on the Quiet America tab on the HAC website.</a>

It will remain available to watch free of charge for at least a few months, Meder said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587592628705.png" alt="The 1976 film "A Quiet America" featuring Hays is now available online on the Hays Arts Council website. (Photo Courtesy Hays Arts Council)" />
 <figcaption>The 1976 film "A Quiet America" featuring Hays is now available online on the Hays Arts Council website. (Photo Courtesy Hays Arts Council)</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Historic documentary featuring Hays available online" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/tjgtj-ddc848?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ea0bd28eb7f1705360339b9">The international film "A Quiet America," which was broadcast on Eagle and Nex-Tech cable systems last month</a>, is now available in its entirety on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/quiet-america">Hays Arts Council's website.</a>Rights to show the film were secured by the council to offset some of the programming canceled during COVID-19 precautionary shutdowns."We have been here in the trenches at the arts council during this whole thing trying to work on programs and projects and try to have things available for the community and stay relevant," said Brenda Meder, HAC executive director.She said the broadcasts went well and had made contact with senior centers in the area prior to the broadcast."People seemed to really enjoy getting to see it," Meder said. "It was wonderful to have it go out to so many of our senior citizens."But now it is available online at the Hays Arts Council website for anyone who would like to watch the entire film."It continues to be made available," Meder said, "so anybody that didn't see it, or anybody that doesn't have local cable television is able to watch it."The 2015 companion video is also available on the website."It was something we wanted to bring back for the community in light of all of the things we couldn't do at the time," Meder said.<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/quiet-america">The film can be found on the Quiet America tab on the HAC website.</a>It will remain available to watch free of charge for at least a few months, Meder said.

🎤Historic documentary featuring Hays available online

By DIANE GASPER-O'BRIEN FHSU University Relations and Marketing&nbsp;

To some, Breathe Coffee House might seem like a quiet getaway from the rest of the world, a chance to chat with friends or colleagues while sipping a hot cup of coffee or espresso.&nbsp;

But to Patrick and Andrew McGinnis, the renovated historic brick building in downtown Hays that is home to Breathe is much more. It’s part of their family non-profit organization, Dialogue Ministries, and a place for each of them to pursue their passion.&nbsp;

Patrick will graduate from Fort Hays State University this week with a bachelor of social work. His youngest son, Andrew, is earning a bachelor’s degree in informatics with an emphasis in digital media production and journalism.&nbsp;

While working on his second bachelor’s from FHSU, Patrick has been able to continue his dialogue ministry at Breathe. Andrew, when not serving customers, has earned invaluable experience as a videographer. He has documented live bands at Breathe and producing multiple videos for the ministry’s “Can We Just Talk?” program, which focuses on mental health.&nbsp;

It’s been a perfect blend for Andrew, Breathe’s No. 1 barista.&nbsp;

“Working with family at Breathe is great and working with my dad through all my different college classes was perfect,” Andrew said. “He was willing to let me experience what I wanted to practice on. We come from an artistic family, so he understands what it takes to have the creative process and was willing to work with me through those processes.”&nbsp;

Sticking with a comfortable choice of attending college in the town where he was born and raised might have seemed like an easy decision to some. Andrew is the third generation of the McGinnis family to earn a degree from FHSU.&nbsp;

Andrew’s grandfather, Darrell McGinnis, was a professor of ceramics at FHSU for 30 years and is an FHSU graduate along with his grandmother. Andrew’s mom and brother-in-law both are FSHU alumni and work on campus now. Andrew’s older sister is a graduate as well, while his older brother attended school there, too.&nbsp;

He admits family ties drew him to Fort Hays State, but it wasn’t only his immediate family.&nbsp;

“I just really liked the feel of Fort Hays State and Hays,” Andrew said. “My family had a lot of history there. They have a great music program, and music therapy was my inspiration at the time.”&nbsp;

Andrew was heavily involved in music at Hays High School, and while he chose to attend FHSU for the renowned music program, Andrew found his true calling while taking a video class.&nbsp;

“We were doing some audio and video production, and I loved it,” he said. “I decided to change my major, and the rest just all fell into place.”&nbsp;

Connections made through working at Breathe opened up a lot of opportunities for Andrew.&nbsp;

Connections with people has always been what inspired his father, too. A native of Hays, Patrick earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1991. He then explored numerous ventures in the service industry and taught sociology at FHSU before taking a leap of faith four years ago and opened the non-profit Breathe Coffee House in May of 2016.&nbsp;

The mission of the coffee house is to generate meaningful dialogue among people in groups, give them an environment where they feel comfortable to ask questions. Patrick especially liked working with college students, and that is why he decided to pursue his degree in social work.&nbsp;

“A lot of the baseline ideas at Breathe are what we do in social work, in counseling,” he said. “A coffee house is a demographically diverse environment. It’s easy to have conversations in them. We’re teaching people how to do that.”&nbsp;

Eligibility for full licensure for social work in Kansas requires a master’s degree, so Patrick decided to begin work on his master’s in June.&nbsp;

“We are so fortunate to have this university here in Hays,” Patrick said. “It’s definitely been great for our family.”&nbsp;

Plans for graduation celebrations for the father-son duo had to be altered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced postponement of FHSU’s spring commencement ceremonies.&nbsp;

An FHSU virtual graduation is planned for June 19, and the McGinnis family plans to have some sort of get-together sometime this summer to celebrate. Then it’s off to the city for Andrew, who hopes to find employment in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;

“My dream job would be to work as a videographer/social media rep for Sporting Kansas City,” Andrew said of KC’s professional soccer club. “But there are a lot of careers developed through this major, a lot of opportunities.”&nbsp;

He credits FHSU with presenting those opportunities.&nbsp;

“I might never have been introduced to video production somewhere else. I love story telling, and video is one of the best ways to do that,” Andrew said. “It was a phenomenal decision to come to Fort Hays State. My experiences here have given me confidence to strike out on my own.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590522403375.png" alt="Andrew McGinnis and his dad, Patrick McGinnis, both earned bachelor degrees from Fort Hays State University this spring." />
 <figcaption>Andrew McGinnis and his dad, Patrick McGinnis, both earned bachelor degrees from Fort Hays State University this spring.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O'BRIEN FHSU University Relations and Marketing&nbsp;To some, Breathe Coffee House might seem like a quiet getaway from the rest of the world, a chance to chat with friends or colleagues while sipping a hot cup of coffee or espresso.&nbsp;But to Patrick and Andrew McGinnis, the renovated historic brick building in downtown Hays that is home to Breathe is much more. It’s part of their family non-profit organization, Dialogue Ministries, and a place for each of them to pursue their passion.&nbsp;Patrick will graduate from Fort Hays State University this week with a bachelor of social work. His youngest son, Andrew, is earning a bachelor’s degree in informatics with an emphasis in digital media production and journalism.&nbsp;While working on his second bachelor’s from FHSU, Patrick has been able to continue his dialogue ministry at Breathe. Andrew, when not serving customers, has earned invaluable experience as a videographer. He has documented live bands at Breathe and producing multiple videos for the ministry’s “Can We Just Talk?” program, which focuses on mental health.&nbsp;It’s been a perfect blend for Andrew, Breathe’s No. 1 barista.&nbsp;“Working with family at Breathe is great and working with my dad through all my different college classes was perfect,” Andrew said. “He was willing to let me experience what I wanted to practice on. We come from an artistic family, so he understands what it takes to have the creative process and was willing to work with me through those processes.”&nbsp;Sticking with a comfortable choice of attending college in the town where he was born and raised might have seemed like an easy decision to some. Andrew is the third generation of the McGinnis family to earn a degree from FHSU.&nbsp;Andrew’s grandfather, Darrell McGinnis, was a professor of ceramics at FHSU for 30 years and is an FHSU graduate along with his grandmother. Andrew’s mom and brother-in-law both are FSHU alumni and work on campus now. Andrew’s older sister is a graduate as well, while his older brother attended school there, too.&nbsp;He admits family ties drew him to Fort Hays State, but it wasn’t only his immediate family.&nbsp;“I just really liked the feel of Fort Hays State and Hays,” Andrew said. “My family had a lot of history there. They have a great music program, and music therapy was my inspiration at the time.”&nbsp;Andrew was heavily involved in music at Hays High School, and while he chose to attend FHSU for the renowned music program, Andrew found his true calling while taking a video class.&nbsp;“We were doing some audio and video production, and I loved it,” he said. “I decided to change my major, and the rest just all fell into place.”&nbsp;Connections made through working at Breathe opened up a lot of opportunities for Andrew.&nbsp;Connections with people has always been what inspired his father, too. A native of Hays, Patrick earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1991. He then explored numerous ventures in the service industry and taught sociology at FHSU before taking a leap of faith four years ago and opened the non-profit Breathe Coffee House in May of 2016.&nbsp;The mission of the coffee house is to generate meaningful dialogue among people in groups, give them an environment where they feel comfortable to ask questions. Patrick especially liked working with college students, and that is why he decided to pursue his degree in social work.&nbsp;“A lot of the baseline ideas at Breathe are what we do in social work, in counseling,” he said. “A coffee house is a demographically diverse environment. It’s easy to have conversations in them. We’re teaching people how to do that.”&nbsp;Eligibility for full licensure for social work in Kansas requires a master’s degree, so Patrick decided to begin work on his master’s in June.&nbsp;“We are so fortunate to have this university here in Hays,” Patrick said. “It’s definitely been great for our family.”&nbsp;Plans for graduation celebrations for the father-son duo had to be altered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced postponement of FHSU’s spring commencement ceremonies.&nbsp;An FHSU virtual graduation is planned for June 19, and the McGinnis family plans to have some sort of get-together sometime this summer to celebrate. Then it’s off to the city for Andrew, who hopes to find employment in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;“My dream job would be to work as a videographer/social media rep for Sporting Kansas City,” Andrew said of KC’s professional soccer club. “But there are a lot of careers developed through this major, a lot of opportunities.”&nbsp;He credits FHSU with presenting those opportunities.&nbsp;“I might never have been introduced to video production somewhere else. I love story telling, and video is one of the best ways to do that,” Andrew said. “It was a phenomenal decision to come to Fort Hays State. My experiences here have given me confidence to strike out on my own.”&nbsp;

Father, son continue family tradition, graduate from FHSU together

Some of the habits we’ve developed recently could serve us well in the future

MANHATTAN – Many of the healthy habits that Americans have been pushed toward during the COVID-19 pandemic could be well worth keeping as they return to some version of their previous lives, says Kansas State University nutrition specialist Sandy Procter.

“At this point, some of the early studies are just data points, but what it’s looking like is that some of these healthy habits cropping up during the pandemic would be good to keep,” Procter said. “Some of these things might have started out as personal inconveniences or changes, but we might want to consider looking at them for the longer run.”

One of the most important lessons learned during the first two months of the pandemic is also one of the most simple, she added.

“We’ve all been washing our hands a lot more frequently,” Procter said. “Wash your hands like you mean it, because we do mean it, and we will mean it from now on. It’s probably never going to go back to where it is an after-thought. It will hopefully stay present in everyone’s mind. Experts tell us this is really the biggest thing we can do to keep ourselves healthy.”

Procter said many extension professionals’ jobs have gotten busier during the pandemic. “The demand for timely information has increased,” she said. She and many of her colleagues have been working to remind consumers of the benefits of reducing trips to the grocery store, planning meals, reducing food waste, preparing home foods safely, and more.

She noted that shopping with a grocery list has been an important topic for a lot of reasons.

“I kind of think of cutting a shopping trip as something I can contribute to the overall good,” Procter said. “In our home, we’ve been trying to decrease those trips and decrease human contact, and thinking about those people who are in that store working. They need our business, but they don’t need additional contact. It’s just one little way I can contribute to hopefully making things better.”

Procter said taking fewer trips to the store also means that consumers must think more carefully about planning meals, which often leads to preparing creative, more healthful options and wasting less food. They’re also likely to save money.

“It’s sort of a combination of health effects and the cost benefit of cooking at home,” she said. “And quite frankly, it can be rewarding. It’s a real benefit for people to re-visit or expand their cooking at home, to learn that they have skills they didn’t know they had and to share those skills with other family members.”

Some other areas that Procter listed as important to “keep” in the future include:

Procter also urges consumers to continue thinking of their homes as “a self care center. Think of ways that health comes from our homes, including the activities or work that we do there, and the rest and respite we find there.”

“Keeping our home as a self care center could serve us well as a new healthy habit.”

K-State Research and Extension has compiled numerous publications and other information to help people take care of themselves and others during tough times and good times. See a<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/about-us/covid-19-extension.html">comprehensive list of resources online.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590601784459.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University nutrition specialist Sandy Procter" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University nutrition specialist Sandy Procter</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Some of the habits we’ve developed recently could serve us well in the future</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN – Many of the healthy habits that Americans have been pushed toward during the COVID-19 pandemic could be well worth keeping as they return to some version of their previous lives, says Kansas State University nutrition specialist Sandy Procter.“At this point, some of the early studies are just data points, but what it’s looking like is that some of these healthy habits cropping up during the pandemic would be good to keep,” Procter said. “Some of these things might have started out as personal inconveniences or changes, but we might want to consider looking at them for the longer run.”One of the most important lessons learned during the first two months of the pandemic is also one of the most simple, she added.“We’ve all been washing our hands a lot more frequently,” Procter said. “Wash your hands like you mean it, because we do mean it, and we will mean it from now on. It’s probably never going to go back to where it is an after-thought. It will hopefully stay present in everyone’s mind. Experts tell us this is really the biggest thing we can do to keep ourselves healthy.”Procter said many extension professionals’ jobs have gotten busier during the pandemic. “The demand for timely information has increased,” she said. She and many of her colleagues have been working to remind consumers of the benefits of reducing trips to the grocery store, planning meals, reducing food waste, preparing home foods safely, and more.She noted that shopping with a grocery list has been an important topic for a lot of reasons.“I kind of think of cutting a shopping trip as something I can contribute to the overall good,” Procter said. “In our home, we’ve been trying to decrease those trips and decrease human contact, and thinking about those people who are in that store working. They need our business, but they don’t need additional contact. It’s just one little way I can contribute to hopefully making things better.”Procter said taking fewer trips to the store also means that consumers must think more carefully about planning meals, which often leads to preparing creative, more healthful options and wasting less food. They’re also likely to save money.“It’s sort of a combination of health effects and the cost benefit of cooking at home,” she said. “And quite frankly, it can be rewarding. It’s a real benefit for people to re-visit or expand their cooking at home, to learn that they have skills they didn’t know they had and to share those skills with other family members.”Some other areas that Procter listed as important to “keep” in the future include:<ol>
 <li>Slowing down. “We’ve learned to take time to reflect on ourselves and connect with others,” she said.</li><li>Appreciation. “We’ve all realized how people everywhere have stepped up to improve the situation. Hopefully this isn’t just passing thankfulness, but instead something we can carry forward.”</li><li>Physical activity. Exercise is not just good for our physical health, Procter notes, but also good for mental health and stress relief.</li><li>Connecting with family. In addition to spending more time together, family members should keep up the commitment to stay in touch with extended family and friends, especially older adults who may live alone. “A phone call works wonders for helping people stay connected,” Procter said.</li>
 </ol>Procter also urges consumers to continue thinking of their homes as “a self care center. Think of ways that health comes from our homes, including the activities or work that we do there, and the rest and respite we find there.”“Keeping our home as a self care center could serve us well as a new healthy habit.”K-State Research and Extension has compiled numerous publications and other information to help people take care of themselves and others during tough times and good times. See a<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/about-us/covid-19-extension.html">comprehensive list of resources online.</a>

Healthy living: Specialist shares possible pandemic positives

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

Throughout the uncertainty of the last two and a half months, I have tried to focus on the blessings in my life. Our home is perfectly remote for social distancing. Without children, we don’t have the added pressures of home schooling. Both of our incomes are dependent on an essential industry. I count myself lucky and am thankful for all we have.

However, human nature always finds a way to plant the seeds of desire for something more. Some people might call it ambition; I prefer to think of it as hope.

When these ideas take root, my mind is filled with what ifs and thoughts of how life could be better. When my desires get a little overly zealous, my partner Marc is always ready to help ground me with a gentle reminder, “wants are unlimited.” This is our way of taking a moment to reset and appreciate what we have right here and now.

Two weeks ago, my wish list was fuller than I realized.

I was waiting somewhat impatiently to start the first real upgrades we have done to our house and increase our level of creature comfort. Last Memorial Day straight-line winds broke several windows on our porch and house. Since we were bringing in someone to work on the house, we decided to refinish our old, splintered hardwood floors and modernize our bathroom to include a shower-tub combo.

My body was in almost constant pain because of an injury to my lower back. I dreamed of what life would be like when I could just get it fixed.

Living 800 miles away from my childhood home, I always miss my family and am constantly dreaming of reasons to visit home or get them to Kansas for a visit.

Even at work, I had dreams about how much I would be able to accomplish over the summer when my new intern started.

Like I said, my wish list was full, and you can probably guess where this is going. The cliché, “be careful what you wish for,” has summed up my life in the last two weeks.

First, I received a fast-tracked approval from the insurance company for back surgery. One of the tradeoffs for the procedure meant I had to stop taking anti-inflammatory medicine a week before the procedure.

We got a surprise call from our contractor, the day before this cut-off, letting us know he could get us in early and wanted to start in two days. This meant moving all our possessions out of two-thirds of our home, without the comforts of medicine.

The day before surgery, I welcomed my summer intern and informed her she would have a chance to prove her independence and initiative right off the bat because I would be out for a week.

Additionally, my parents offered to come spend the week after my surgery helping care for me and working on some smaller projects around the house to compliment the construction crew’s efforts.

The last two weeks have been full of activity, painful at times, and a great reminder that life rarely works out in a convenient or easy manner. However, if you can weather the storms and get through all the chaos, things typically work out in the end … or at least you have a good story to tell.

A good sense of humor and a healthy amount of gratitude may be the secret to a life well-lived. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherThroughout the uncertainty of the last two and a half months, I have tried to focus on the blessings in my life. Our home is perfectly remote for social distancing. Without children, we don’t have the added pressures of home schooling. Both of our incomes are dependent on an essential industry. I count myself lucky and am thankful for all we have.However, human nature always finds a way to plant the seeds of desire for something more. Some people might call it ambition; I prefer to think of it as hope.When these ideas take root, my mind is filled with what ifs and thoughts of how life could be better. When my desires get a little overly zealous, my partner Marc is always ready to help ground me with a gentle reminder, “wants are unlimited.” This is our way of taking a moment to reset and appreciate what we have right here and now.Two weeks ago, my wish list was fuller than I realized.I was waiting somewhat impatiently to start the first real upgrades we have done to our house and increase our level of creature comfort. Last Memorial Day straight-line winds broke several windows on our porch and house. Since we were bringing in someone to work on the house, we decided to refinish our old, splintered hardwood floors and modernize our bathroom to include a shower-tub combo.My body was in almost constant pain because of an injury to my lower back. I dreamed of what life would be like when I could just get it fixed.Living 800 miles away from my childhood home, I always miss my family and am constantly dreaming of reasons to visit home or get them to Kansas for a visit.Even at work, I had dreams about how much I would be able to accomplish over the summer when my new intern started.Like I said, my wish list was full, and you can probably guess where this is going. The cliché, “be careful what you wish for,” has summed up my life in the last two weeks.It has been a perfect storm so to speak.First, I received a fast-tracked approval from the insurance company for back surgery. One of the tradeoffs for the procedure meant I had to stop taking anti-inflammatory medicine a week before the procedure.We got a surprise call from our contractor, the day before this cut-off, letting us know he could get us in early and wanted to start in two days. This meant moving all our possessions out of two-thirds of our home, without the comforts of medicine.The day before surgery, I welcomed my summer intern and informed her she would have a chance to prove her independence and initiative right off the bat because I would be out for a week.Additionally, my parents offered to come spend the week after my surgery helping care for me and working on some smaller projects around the house to compliment the construction crew’s efforts.The last two weeks have been full of activity, painful at times, and a great reminder that life rarely works out in a convenient or easy manner. However, if you can weather the storms and get through all the chaos, things typically work out in the end … or at least you have a good story to tell.A good sense of humor and a healthy amount of gratitude may be the secret to a life well-lived. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: A perfect storm

Three-day weather outlook

A while back, one of the greeters at church whose daughter was getting married was telling me about the excursion to buy his suit for the wedding. When asked why he was not wearing a tux’ for the occasion, he replied “I think it’s on my bucket list that I will never wear a tuxedo for anything.” That got me to thinking; there are numerous things that I too will never do, so why not come up with “an inverse bucket list” of things in the outdoors that I simply never want to do. Bear in mind, the items on this list reflect only my opinion, are listed in no particular order and are possibly subject to change given the circumstances.

Pure skunk essence is in high demand by trapping lure manufacturers, and is also used in minute amounts as a carrier in perfume to hold the scent and help it last longer. Lots of trappers extract the essence from skunks they catch by inserting a small hypodermic needle into the scent glands and carefully sucking out the essence, then depositing it into some sort of sealed glass container. I thoroughly admire trappers who do this as they are going the extra mile to harvest and use all parts of those amazing critters, but I’ll probably never do it myself. I’m often like a bull-in-a-china-closet and in looking at the process of extracting the essence from a skunk, all I see are endless possibilities for the entire adventure to go south.

Big, strong and built like aquatic tanks with scales, carp are possibly second only to wipers as the hardest fighting fish found in Kansas waters, and avid carp fisherman would probably argue with that. I found the International Carp Fishing Association, the American Carp Fishing Association and various other state organizations, all dedicated to the sport of catch-and-release carp tournament fishing. The guys and gals of these clubs are as infatuated with carp fishing as any bass or walleye tournament fishermen.&nbsp; Once again, I thoroughly respect these folks for their appreciation of a creature that’s often known as a trash fish and has over the years been the brunt of more jokes and ridicule than congress. However, given the number of other fine-eating fish found in Kansas, I’ll probably never keep one for dinner. We just got home after spending three days fishing Lake Waconda at Glen Elder, and now have numerous meals of crappie and walleye in the freezer…I rest my case.

I have tasted numerous kinds of wild game meat, including bear, beaver, raccoon and bobcat, and most taste amazingly good, though bear and raccoon are slightly greasy.&nbsp; I guess opossum is also edible and in fact is considered classy cuisine in some parts of the country. In response to the suggestion of eating possum, I once heard someone say “No I will never eat possum; I’ve seen too many of them crawl out of a rotting carcass of some sort.” My sentiments exactly; possums are four legged vultures and to me eating one would be no different than eating a vulture. So no, I will never eat possum!... Likewise with grubs; I watch the survival shows and see the guys fishing big fat grubs out of trees and rotten logs, hear them tell how tasty and crunchy they are roasted over an open fire, and listen to them rave about all the protein and nutrients they provide a hungry person. Sorry, but I think I’d rather chew off my left foot! If God had wanted me to eat grubs, He would have given me feathers or a white stripe down my back.&nbsp;

I will never spend another winter night in a tiny camping trailer.

When I was just a kid, probably in my early twenties, I accepted an older coworker’s invitation to go deer hunting with him in Pennsylvania. We were staying in his tiny camping trailer in some deserted state park, and early the first morning we stepped out into ten or so inches of fresh snow and absolutely miserable freezing temperatures.&nbsp; We walked up and down hills and through pine trees all day long and were absolutely beat by days end as I remember. We decided to go to a little tavern out in the middle of nowhere to get a hot evening meal, and my friend had a beer or two with his meal. On the counter, as in many old country taverns back then was a glass gallon jar of pickled hard-boiled eggs, and my friend began eating those eggs along with his beer and dinner. Back then I had no idea what a potent combination beer and pickled boiled eggs could be. That night I would rather have slept out in the snow than in that tiny trailer with him.&nbsp;

These are just a few of the things on my “inverse bucket list” and I hope they gave you a chuckle or two. But as I think about it, who knows, in our world today maybe it’s just as important for us to know what we WILL NOT do as it is to know what we will; continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696138742.jpeg" alt="Steve Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>A while back, one of the greeters at church whose daughter was getting married was telling me about the excursion to buy his suit for the wedding. When asked why he was not wearing a tux’ for the occasion, he replied “I think it’s on my bucket list that I will never wear a tuxedo for anything.” That got me to thinking; there are numerous things that I too will never do, so why not come up with “an inverse bucket list” of things in the outdoors that I simply never want to do. Bear in mind, the items on this list reflect only my opinion, are listed in no particular order and are possibly subject to change given the circumstances.I will never milk a skunk!&nbsp;Pure skunk essence is in high demand by trapping lure manufacturers, and is also used in minute amounts as a carrier in perfume to hold the scent and help it last longer. Lots of trappers extract the essence from skunks they catch by inserting a small hypodermic needle into the scent glands and carefully sucking out the essence, then depositing it into some sort of sealed glass container. I thoroughly admire trappers who do this as they are going the extra mile to harvest and use all parts of those amazing critters, but I’ll probably never do it myself. I’m often like a bull-in-a-china-closet and in looking at the process of extracting the essence from a skunk, all I see are endless possibilities for the entire adventure to go south.I will never keep a carp for table fare.Big, strong and built like aquatic tanks with scales, carp are possibly second only to wipers as the hardest fighting fish found in Kansas waters, and avid carp fisherman would probably argue with that. I found the International Carp Fishing Association, the American Carp Fishing Association and various other state organizations, all dedicated to the sport of catch-and-release carp tournament fishing. The guys and gals of these clubs are as infatuated with carp fishing as any bass or walleye tournament fishermen.&nbsp; Once again, I thoroughly respect these folks for their appreciation of a creature that’s often known as a trash fish and has over the years been the brunt of more jokes and ridicule than congress. However, given the number of other fine-eating fish found in Kansas, I’ll probably never keep one for dinner. We just got home after spending three days fishing Lake Waconda at Glen Elder, and now have numerous meals of crappie and walleye in the freezer…I rest my case.I will never eat possum or grubs.I have tasted numerous kinds of wild game meat, including bear, beaver, raccoon and bobcat, and most taste amazingly good, though bear and raccoon are slightly greasy.&nbsp; I guess opossum is also edible and in fact is considered classy cuisine in some parts of the country. In response to the suggestion of eating possum, I once heard someone say “No I will never eat possum; I’ve seen too many of them crawl out of a rotting carcass of some sort.” My sentiments exactly; possums are four legged vultures and to me eating one would be no different than eating a vulture. So no, I will never eat possum!... Likewise with grubs; I watch the survival shows and see the guys fishing big fat grubs out of trees and rotten logs, hear them tell how tasty and crunchy they are roasted over an open fire, and listen to them rave about all the protein and nutrients they provide a hungry person. Sorry, but I think I’d rather chew off my left foot! If God had wanted me to eat grubs, He would have given me feathers or a white stripe down my back.&nbsp;I will never spend another winter night in a tiny camping trailer.When I was just a kid, probably in my early twenties, I accepted an older coworker’s invitation to go deer hunting with him in Pennsylvania. We were staying in his tiny camping trailer in some deserted state park, and early the first morning we stepped out into ten or so inches of fresh snow and absolutely miserable freezing temperatures.&nbsp; We walked up and down hills and through pine trees all day long and were absolutely beat by days end as I remember. We decided to go to a little tavern out in the middle of nowhere to get a hot evening meal, and my friend had a beer or two with his meal. On the counter, as in many old country taverns back then was a glass gallon jar of pickled hard-boiled eggs, and my friend began eating those eggs along with his beer and dinner. Back then I had no idea what a potent combination beer and pickled boiled eggs could be. That night I would rather have slept out in the snow than in that tiny trailer with him.&nbsp;These are just a few of the things on my “inverse bucket list” and I hope they gave you a chuckle or two. But as I think about it, who knows, in our world today maybe it’s just as important for us to know what we WILL NOT do as it is to know what we will; continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Inverse bucket list

WICHITA — The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345102&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345101&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30% after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. 

Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.

All those who come to give through May 31 will receive a special Red Cross T-shirt by mail, while supplies last. And thanks to Amazon, all those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. *

“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services.

 “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop. We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”

It’s important to remember that red blood cells must be transfused within 42 days of donation and platelets within just five days. So, they must constantly be replenished. 

There is no known end date in this fight against coronavirus, and the Red Cross urgently needs the help of donors and blood drive hosts to ensure blood products are readily available for patients.

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345100&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">additional precautions&nbsp;</a>– including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance.

 Donors are&nbsp;asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a&nbsp;face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;public guidance.&nbsp;

Hays Hays Blood Donation Center 208 E. 8th Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Ellis County Ellis 6/1/2020: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Knights of Columbus, 1013 Washington Hays 5/28/2020: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Hays Blood Donation Center, 208 E. 8th St 6/3/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Big Creek Crossing Mall, 2938 Vine St. 6/3/2020: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sunflower Bank, 4720 Roth 6/15/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., St. Nicholas of Myra, 2901 E. 13th St.

Logan County Oakley 6/11/2020: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Buffalo Bill Cultural Center, 3083 US-83

Norton County Norton 6/11/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Norton County Hospital, 102 E. Holme St.

Osborne County Natoma 6/4/2020: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Natoma Community Center, 709 N 2nd St.

Russell County Lucas 6/12/2020: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, 332 N. Main St. Russell 6/2/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Fossil Creek Inn &amp; Suites, 1430 S. Fossil 6/15/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Fossil Creek Inn &amp; Suites, 1430 S. Fossil

Sheridan County Selden 5/29/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Selden Community Building, 110 N. Kansas

Smith County Smith Center 6/4/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., VFW, 620 A. St.

Trego County WaKeeney 6/4/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 500 Summit Ave.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345099&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">donate blood</a>. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements

.Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. 

To get started, follow the instructions at <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345098&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a> or use the Blood Donor App.&nbsp;

* Restrictions apply. Additional information and details are available at <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345094&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/Together</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590619492263.jpeg" alt="American Red Cross blood drive" />
 <figcaption>American Red Cross blood drive</figcaption>
 </figure>ARCWICHITA — The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345102&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345101&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30% after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.All those who come to give through May 31 will receive a special Red Cross T-shirt by mail, while supplies last. And thanks to Amazon, all those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. *“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services. “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop. We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”It’s important to remember that red blood cells must be transfused within 42 days of donation and platelets within just five days. So, they must constantly be replenished. There is no known end date in this fight against coronavirus, and the Red Cross urgently needs the help of donors and blood drive hosts to ensure blood products are readily available for patients.<h2>Blood drive safety precautions</h2>Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345100&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">additional precautions&nbsp;</a>– including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance. Donors are&nbsp;asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a&nbsp;face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;public guidance.&nbsp;<h2>Upcoming blood donation opportunities</h2>May 27-June 15:Hays Hays Blood Donation Center 208 E. 8th Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.Ellis County Ellis 6/1/2020: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Knights of Columbus, 1013 Washington Hays 5/28/2020: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Hays Blood Donation Center, 208 E. 8th St 6/3/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Big Creek Crossing Mall, 2938 Vine St. 6/3/2020: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sunflower Bank, 4720 Roth 6/15/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., St. Nicholas of Myra, 2901 E. 13th St. Logan County Oakley 6/11/2020: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Buffalo Bill Cultural Center, 3083 US-83 Norton County Norton 6/11/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Norton County Hospital, 102 E. Holme St.Osborne County Natoma 6/4/2020: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Natoma Community Center, 709 N 2nd St. Russell County Lucas 6/12/2020: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, 332 N. Main St. Russell 6/2/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Fossil Creek Inn &amp; Suites, 1430 S. Fossil 6/15/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Fossil Creek Inn &amp; Suites, 1430 S. FossilSheridan County Selden 5/29/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Selden Community Building, 110 N. Kansas Smith County Smith Center 6/4/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., VFW, 620 A. St.Trego County WaKeeney 6/4/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 500 Summit Ave.<h2>About blood donation</h2>All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345099&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">donate blood</a>. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345098&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a> or use the Blood Donor App.&nbsp;* Restrictions apply. Additional information and details are available at <a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b%3b4%405-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=1711546&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=345094&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/Together</a>.

Area blood drives set as hospital demand increases 30% 

Kansas Farm Bureau’s campaign to End Hunger has raised
$3,831.00 in Ellis County, which was donated to Ellis County Community
Assistance Center, Ellis County Food Boxes and St. Joseph’s Pantry.&nbsp; 

The campaign to End Hunger received donations from the
Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, Ellis County Farm Bureau
Association and Farm Bureau agents in Hays, Danny Dinkel and Tina Quigley.

“Farmers and ranchers know how important is for all families
to have access to safe, nutritious food,” says Matt Grabbe, Ellis County Farm
Bureau Association president.&nbsp; 

The money will go to Ellis County food pantries and be used as
needed to assist local families.

“We are happy to be a part of helping end hunger in our
community, and we encourage everyone who can to join us in this endeavor,” Dinkel says.

Individuals who wish to contribute are also welcome to do so. 

All
funds will run through the “Fund to End Hunger in Kansas,” within the KFB
Foundation. This provides tax deductibility to donors and consistency in the
processing and delivery of contributions.&nbsp;

For more information about the fund and to contribute,
visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kfb.org/endhunger" target="_blank">www.kfb.org/endhunger</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590613669882.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Farm Bureau’s campaign to End Hunger has raised
$3,831.00 in Ellis County, which was donated to Ellis County Community
Assistance Center, Ellis County Food Boxes and St. Joseph’s Pantry.&nbsp; The campaign to End Hunger received donations from the
Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, Ellis County Farm Bureau
Association and Farm Bureau agents in Hays, Danny Dinkel and Tina Quigley.“Farmers and ranchers know how important is for all families
to have access to safe, nutritious food,” says Matt Grabbe, Ellis County Farm
Bureau Association president.&nbsp; The money will go to Ellis County food pantries and be used as
needed to assist local families.“We are happy to be a part of helping end hunger in our
community, and we encourage everyone who can to join us in this endeavor,” Dinkel says.Individuals who wish to contribute are also welcome to do so. All
funds will run through the “Fund to End Hunger in Kansas,” within the KFB
Foundation. This provides tax deductibility to donors and consistency in the
processing and delivery of contributions.&nbsp;For more information about the fund and to contribute,
visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kfb.org/endhunger" target="_blank">www.kfb.org/endhunger</a>.News release

Kansas Farm Bureau helps fund fight against hunger in Ellis Co.

HayMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System is working closely with local, state and federal health officials to control spread and provide needed care during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; We have done so while continuing to safely meet the primary, specialty and emergency healthcare needs of our patients and their families. Our top priority is keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe.

To that end we have made some changes to our visitation policy and are implementing universal mask requirements based on CDC guidelines.

*Effective Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00 a.m.

*Visitors are limited to 1 person per day from 8:00 am – 8:30 pm. No visitors will be allowed to enter after 8:30 pm.

*Patients and visitors must use Entrance B, which is located at the Miller Pavilion from 6:00 am – 8:30 pm for hospital access.
*Patients must use the Emergency Entrance from 8:30 pm – 6:00 am

*All patients must use Entrance E at Bickle/Eagle Health Complex (The Center for Health Improvement) for Orthopedic, Outpatient Rehab, Surgery, and Cardiac Rehab Services.

* Temperature screenings upon entry into our facilities will continue. When you enter the hospital, you will be directed to a screening station where someone will take your temperature. This process will include health system employees. Every person arriving at our facilities must receive a temperature screening before entering. Visitors and staff with a temperature will not be allowed in the facility.

* Valet parking at our main campus has closed. Between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm. we will be happy to meet you with a wheelchair at your vehicle and assist you to and from your appointment.&nbsp; Please enter the drive thru at Entrance B and someone will assist you.

Masks are now required for patients, visitors and staff. As we work together to preserve health and safety for our health system and communities, we require all patients, visitors and staff to wear masks. It’s a necessity of our new normal that certainly feels different, but guidelines from the CDC indicate wearing a barrier mask provides a measure of protection for all of us. This change aligns with both state and local guidelines in requiring all individuals to wear a mask in public. Simple acts such as breathing, talking, sneezing and coughing are all ways the virus may spread.

We ask that you bring your own mask, however, if you do not have one you will be provided one when you enter our facilities and are screened.

We know this may be an inconvenience, but our priority is keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe and healthy.&nbsp; These are unprecedented times and we are staying abreast of the situation and taking precautions accordingly.

If you are feeling ill and have the following symptoms:

* Been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19

*Have traveled to an area with sustained transmissions

Contact your doctor’s office or call the COVID-19 Hotline at 877-261-7140.

Call before you arrive at your doctor’s office.

Do not go to the Emergency Department unless instructed by your doctor.

Our team treats patients with several respiratory illnesses every day. We have the training, tools and techniques in place to isolate and care for patients who are potentially at risk for COVID-19 following the guidelines identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584140055070.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHayMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System is working closely with local, state and federal health officials to control spread and provide needed care during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; We have done so while continuing to safely meet the primary, specialty and emergency healthcare needs of our patients and their families. Our top priority is keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe.To that end we have made some changes to our visitation policy and are implementing universal mask requirements based on CDC guidelines.<h2>Visitation Changes</h2>*Effective Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00 a.m.*Visitors are limited to 1 person per day from 8:00 am – 8:30 pm. No visitors will be allowed to enter after 8:30 pm.<h2>&nbsp;Visitation Reminders</h2>Hospital Visitors*Patients and visitors must use Entrance B, which is located at the Miller Pavilion from 6:00 am – 8:30 pm for hospital access.
*Patients must use the Emergency Entrance from 8:30 pm – 6:00 am*All patients must use Entrance E at Bickle/Eagle Health Complex (The Center for Health Improvement) for Orthopedic, Outpatient Rehab, Surgery, and Cardiac Rehab Services.* Temperature screenings upon entry into our facilities will continue. When you enter the hospital, you will be directed to a screening station where someone will take your temperature. This process will include health system employees. Every person arriving at our facilities must receive a temperature screening before entering. Visitors and staff with a temperature will not be allowed in the facility.* Valet parking at our main campus has closed. Between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm. we will be happy to meet you with a wheelchair at your vehicle and assist you to and from your appointment.&nbsp; Please enter the drive thru at Entrance B and someone will assist you.<h2>Clinic Visitors</h2><ol>
 <li>1 support person is allowed</li><li>Any visitor who has a fever or other cold or flu-like symptoms will not be allowed in the facilities</li><li>Unless you have a scheduled pediatrics appointment, visitors under age 14 will not be allowed in the clinic until further notice.</li>
 </ol><h2>Universal Mask Requirements</h2>Masks are now required for patients, visitors and staff. As we work together to preserve health and safety for our health system and communities, we require all patients, visitors and staff to wear masks. It’s a necessity of our new normal that certainly feels different, but guidelines from the CDC indicate wearing a barrier mask provides a measure of protection for all of us. This change aligns with both state and local guidelines in requiring all individuals to wear a mask in public. Simple acts such as breathing, talking, sneezing and coughing are all ways the virus may spread.We ask that you bring your own mask, however, if you do not have one you will be provided one when you enter our facilities and are screened.We know this may be an inconvenience, but our priority is keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe and healthy.&nbsp; These are unprecedented times and we are staying abreast of the situation and taking precautions accordingly.If you are feeling ill and have the following symptoms:*Fever*Coughing*Shortness of breathOr have:* Been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19*Have traveled to an area with sustained transmissionsContact your doctor’s office or call the COVID-19 Hotline at 877-261-7140.Call before you arrive at your doctor’s office.Do not go to the Emergency Department unless instructed by your doctor.Our team treats patients with several respiratory illnesses every day. We have the training, tools and techniques in place to isolate and care for patients who are potentially at risk for COVID-19 following the guidelines identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit:<ol>
 <li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a></li><li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a></li><li>Or your local county or city health department</li>
 </ol>

HaysMed implements changes to visitation, mask policies

Ellis County Health Department

Effective May 27 at 12:01 a.m. the Governor’s previously issued executive orders regarding limitations and restrictions for businesses and individuals have been lifted. Specifically, the Ad Astra Plan to Reopen Kansas.

Ellis County Health Department, in consultation with the County Board of Health, will not impose any restrictions on businesses or residents of Ellis County. We encourage all businesses to continue following industry standards and best practices. Governor Kelly retained 10 executive orders that ECHD encourages citizens to review. They can be found at the following link: <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/executive-orders/.">https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/executive-orders/.</a>

Ellis County Health Department will continue to monitor health metrics provided by KDHE and provide updates to the public. Ellis County Health Department retains the statutory duty of isolation and quarantine for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 as well as close contacts.

Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.

Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you.

Stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19">www.cdc.gov/COVID19</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>/. Call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) or ECHD at 628-9440.

Ellis County Health DepartmentEffective May 27 at 12:01 a.m. the Governor’s previously issued executive orders regarding limitations and restrictions for businesses and individuals have been lifted. Specifically, the Ad Astra Plan to Reopen Kansas.Ellis County Health Department, in consultation with the County Board of Health, will not impose any restrictions on businesses or residents of Ellis County. We encourage all businesses to continue following industry standards and best practices. Governor Kelly retained 10 executive orders that ECHD encourages citizens to review. They can be found at the following link: <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/executive-orders/.">https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/executive-orders/.</a>Ellis County Health Department will continue to monitor health metrics provided by KDHE and provide updates to the public. Ellis County Health Department retains the statutory duty of isolation and quarantine for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 as well as close contacts.Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you.Reopening Metrics for Ellis County:<ol>
 <li>New cases in the last 14 days: 0</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Days Since Onset of Last Case: 38 Days</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Hospitalizations: 0</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Deaths: 0</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Contact Tracers per 100,000 population: 60</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Testing rate per 1000 population 23.21</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Percent of positive rate 1.2 percent</li>
 </ol>Stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19">www.cdc.gov/COVID19</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>/. Call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) or ECHD at 628-9440.

Ellis County removes all COVID-19 restrictions

The Hays school board has several capital projects on tap.

These include the purchase of a new phone system for the high school, new devices for the high school staff and new door locks for the elementary schools.

The board heard reports on the projects at its meeting last week and is set to vote on the projects at its next meeting in June.

Last summer, the district completed a wiring project at Hays High School.

As a part of that project, the district pulled lines for a new phone system. However, the district didn't have the funds to install the new phone system at that time.

HHS has had problems with its phone system for several years, said Scott Summers, district technology director.

The work completed last summer would allow the district to install phones in all of its classrooms. Each of the phones will have its own designated number.

When the old intercom system was pulled, the office could call classrooms, but classrooms could not call the office in case of emergency, Summers said.

The district is considering a hosted phone system, which would include service on the hardware.

Summers recommended going with Nex-Tech, which offered a call forwarding app, which would allow calls o be forwarded without staff having to give out cell phone numbers.

Summers said he wanted to keep the contract local if possible.

He said if the district is happy with the HHS system, it could expand the new system to other schools.

He said he hoped the district could install the system over the summer.

The school also needs to come into compliance with a new law that requires phones in schools to be able to dial 911 directly. Summers said the Nex-Tech system would allow that.

The new system would not only connect an individual classroom to 911, it would alert dispatch from what area in the high school the call is coming, Summers said.

The ongoing service contract for the phone system would be paid for out of the general fund.

The district is looking at devices from Dell to replace staff devices at HHS.

The staff has been using Surface Pro 3s. There has had been some problems with backorders because of the COVID-19 shutdowns. The district might roll out new devices after the beginning of the school year.

Summers said a few of the current devices have had keyboards that have quit working.

The devices are budgeted for replacement this year in the capital improvement fund. Cost would be $51,000. The devices will cost about $727 each. That also covers service for five years.

The district will finish installing interior door locks on district buildings.&nbsp;

The district started changing door locks three years ago for security reasons. Exterior door locks were completed first. Interior door locks were completed at HHS, HMS and the Roosevelt Elementary School last year.

The rest of the elementary schools, Rockwell Administration Center and the transportation center will be completed this year.

The district received a $57,000 matching grant for the project.

Rusty Lindsay, director of buildings and grounds, suggested the district move forward with the low bid from Inter Mountain Lock of Denver for&nbsp;$80,070.

The new locks will allow the classrooms door to be locked from the inside without a key.

Board member Allen Park expressed concern the locks that were being taken out were being scrapped. Lindsay said most of the locks were 50 years old and not able to be reused.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590540146628.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEYHays PostThe Hays school board has several capital projects on tap.These include the purchase of a new phone system for the high school, new devices for the high school staff and new door locks for the elementary schools.The board heard reports on the projects at its meeting last week and is set to vote on the projects at its next meeting in June.<h2>HHS phone system</h2>Last summer, the district completed a wiring project at Hays High School.As a part of that project, the district pulled lines for a new phone system. However, the district didn't have the funds to install the new phone system at that time.HHS has had problems with its phone system for several years, said Scott Summers, district technology director.The work completed last summer would allow the district to install phones in all of its classrooms. Each of the phones will have its own designated number.When the old intercom system was pulled, the office could call classrooms, but classrooms could not call the office in case of emergency, Summers said.The district is considering a hosted phone system, which would include service on the hardware.Summers recommended going with Nex-Tech, which offered a call forwarding app, which would allow calls o be forwarded without staff having to give out cell phone numbers.Summers said he wanted to keep the contract local if possible.He said if the district is happy with the HHS system, it could expand the new system to other schools.He said he hoped the district could install the system over the summer.The school also needs to come into compliance with a new law that requires phones in schools to be able to dial 911 directly. Summers said the Nex-Tech system would allow that.The new system would not only connect an individual classroom to 911, it would alert dispatch from what area in the high school the call is coming, Summers said.The ongoing service contract for the phone system would be paid for out of the general fund.<h2>HHS staff devices</h2>The district is looking at devices from Dell to replace staff devices at HHS.The staff has been using Surface Pro 3s. There has had been some problems with backorders because of the COVID-19 shutdowns. The district might roll out new devices after the beginning of the school year.Summers said a few of the current devices have had keyboards that have quit working.The devices are budgeted for replacement this year in the capital improvement fund. Cost would be $51,000. The devices will cost about $727 each. That also covers service for five years.<h2>Door locks</h2>The district will finish installing interior door locks on district buildings.&nbsp;The district started changing door locks three years ago for security reasons. Exterior door locks were completed first. Interior door locks were completed at HHS, HMS and the Roosevelt Elementary School last year.The rest of the elementary schools, Rockwell Administration Center and the transportation center will be completed this year.The district received a $57,000 matching grant for the project.Rusty Lindsay, director of buildings and grounds, suggested the district move forward with the low bid from Inter Mountain Lock of Denver for&nbsp;$80,070.The new locks will allow the classrooms door to be locked from the inside without a key.Board member Allen Park expressed concern the locks that were being taken out were being scrapped. Lindsay said most of the locks were 50 years old and not able to be reused.

Hays school board considers upgrade of phones, computers, locks

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/CH6uHAxjWt8"></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: Brant Rice, Celebration Community Church

PHILLIPSBURG – For the first time, tickets for Kansas Biggest Rodeo will be sold online.

They will go on sale online on June 1 at 8 am on the rodeo’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>.

Rodeo tickets will also go on sale in person on July 1 at Heritage Insurance Group, 685 Third St., Phillipsburg. They will continue to be sold online, even as they are sold in person.

The addition of online ticket sales is for the convenience of the fans, said J.D. Shelton, president of the rodeo association. 

“You can do it from the ease of your home,” he said. “It’s handier for people, and there won’t be a need to wait in line.”

Online ticket purchasers will have the option to print their tickets at home. They also can be scanned on the purchaser’s phone, at the gate the night of the rodeo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590500367366.jpeg" alt="A cowboy competes in the bull riding at the 2019 Kansas Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg. Tickets go on sale online on June 1 at KansasBiggestRodeo.com. Photo by Terri Abrahamson." />
 <figcaption>A cowboy competes in the bull riding at the 2019 Kansas Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg. Tickets go on sale online on June 1 at KansasBiggestRodeo.com. Photo by Terri Abrahamson.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPSBURG – For the first time, tickets for Kansas Biggest Rodeo will be sold online.They will go on sale online on June 1 at 8 am on the rodeo’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>.Rodeo tickets will also go on sale in person on July 1 at Heritage Insurance Group, 685 Third St., Phillipsburg. They will continue to be sold online, even as they are sold in person.The addition of online ticket sales is for the convenience of the fans, said J.D. Shelton, president of the rodeo association. “You can do it from the ease of your home,” he said. “It’s handier for people, and there won’t be a need to wait in line.”Online ticket purchasers will have the option to print their tickets at home. They also can be scanned on the purchaser’s phone, at the gate the night of the rodeo.A convenience fee of $1.25 and a credit card charge is applied to all tickets purchased by credit and debit card, whether they are purchased online or in person at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg.This year’s rodeo will be held July 30 to Aug. 1 in Phillipsburg and begins at 8 pm each night. Ticket prices for reserved seating are $19 for adults and $15 for children. General admission tickets for Thursday, July 30, are $16 for adults and $12 for children. General admission tickets for Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1. are $17 for adults and $13 for children. Children ages 3-12 can receive the discount children price.Thursday, July 30, is Family Night at the rodeo, with all kids ages 10 and under receiving a free ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call (785) 543-2448.

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