Office of U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall

WASHINGTON - The 174 Rural Health Clinics in Kansas will receive an additional $8.6 million from the Department of Health and Human Services to enhance coronavirus testing in the communities they serve.

“The U.S. is the world leader in testing and this additional investment means more tests will be available to Kansans in every corner of the state,” said U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D.&nbsp;“President Trump made a commitment to ensuring any American who wanted a test had access to one, and I applaud him for following through on his promise. Kansas now has the testing infrastructure it needs to continue safely reopening.”

Click <a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/olrh/download/KS_Rural_Health_Clinics.pdf">HERE</a> for a list of Kansas Rural Health Clinics.

Funding for RHCs was made available through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act and will allow the state’s RHCs to expand access to testing in the rural communities they serve.&nbsp;Now fewer than 10 percent of the state’s counties are without a health care provider receiving direct federal funds for coronavirus testing.&nbsp;

The funding to RHCs builds upon the $22.4 million in funding allocated to the state’s 19&nbsp;community health centers plus the $81.2 million from the Centers for Disease Control&nbsp;and Prevention&nbsp;to the State of Kansas to develop, purchase, administer, process, and analyze COVID-19 tests, conduct surveillance, trace contacts and related activities. Together the State of Kansas and federally backed healthcare facilities have received more than $112.2 million for testing and related activities.

“The federal government continues to support our nation’s healthcare infrastructure, allowing our physicians to protect and serve their communities, no matter location or size,” Marshall said.

The CDC maintains a guidance for testing criteria, however, states have the authority to change the testing criteria in response to changing developments. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has updated its criteria with separate requirements for testing over the course of the outbreak.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590162630172.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of U.S. Rep. Roger MarshallWASHINGTON - The 174 Rural Health Clinics in Kansas will receive an additional $8.6 million from the Department of Health and Human Services to enhance coronavirus testing in the communities they serve.“The U.S. is the world leader in testing and this additional investment means more tests will be available to Kansans in every corner of the state,” said U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D.&nbsp;“President Trump made a commitment to ensuring any American who wanted a test had access to one, and I applaud him for following through on his promise. Kansas now has the testing infrastructure it needs to continue safely reopening.”Click <a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/olrh/download/KS_Rural_Health_Clinics.pdf">HERE</a> for a list of Kansas Rural Health Clinics.Funding for RHCs was made available through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act and will allow the state’s RHCs to expand access to testing in the rural communities they serve.&nbsp;Now fewer than 10 percent of the state’s counties are without a health care provider receiving direct federal funds for coronavirus testing.&nbsp;The funding to RHCs builds upon the $22.4 million in funding allocated to the state’s 19&nbsp;community health centers plus the $81.2 million from the Centers for Disease Control&nbsp;and Prevention&nbsp;to the State of Kansas to develop, purchase, administer, process, and analyze COVID-19 tests, conduct surveillance, trace contacts and related activities. Together the State of Kansas and federally backed healthcare facilities have received more than $112.2 million for testing and related activities.“The federal government continues to support our nation’s healthcare infrastructure, allowing our physicians to protect and serve their communities, no matter location or size,” Marshall said.The CDC maintains a guidance for testing criteria, however, states have the authority to change the testing criteria in response to changing developments. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has updated its criteria with separate requirements for testing over the course of the outbreak.&nbsp;

NW Kansas clinics will receive added funding for virus testing

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays City Commission gave the go ahead Thursday night for Fort Hays State University to paint a new design on the water tower just south of Interstate 70.

The design would include the university logo on the east side of the tower with the message "Welcome to Hays, Home of Fort Hays State University."

The west side of the tower would have the Sternberg Museum of Natural History logo and name on it with the message "Next Exit."

"My logic is when you are coming from the east heading west on I-70, there are plenty of directions to the Sternberg Museum to get off on Commerce Parkway," Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer, said, "but there is nothing big and bold that welcomes you to Hays and really speaks to the partnership between the university and the city."

Cason said drivers from the west are likely to miss the museum because of lack of signage.

The work would be the result of an existing agreement with the city and would be completed by the college at no cost to the city.

The 1 million-gallon water tower was repainted in summer 2018. It has remained white since then. The city considered adding a city mural to the tower but the commission opted not to move forward with the project.

The tower before the most recent painting only displayed the Sternberg logo.

Lights were added to the tower when it was painted. Officials estimate the coating on the tower will last about 25 years.

In its work session, the city commission also heard a report on a $1.5 million grant for improvements to 230th Avenue and 55th Street.

The KDOT grant provides $1.5 million to offset the cost of construction. 

Because KDOT funds are involved, it is necessary for the City of Hays to manage the project. 

D&amp;J Land and Development will pay for all of the engineering and design and construction inspection engineering costs for the project. The developer will also be responsible for any construction costs if they exceed the $1.5 million. 

The city’s role in this project is only management and oversight.

The city heard from&nbsp;Kim Rupp, city finance director, who said the city will need to approve a resolution at its next meeting stating its intent to issue general obligation bonds for the Vine Street roundabout project.

The city will provide an estimated $7.1 million toward the financing of the project.

The city plans to initially pay such costs with available funds from the capital projects fund and will later be reimbursed with proceeds of general obligation bonds, which are expected to be issued in late 2020 or early 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The costs associated with the Home Depot&nbsp;transportation development district have been met, which means the district and the 3/4 cent sales tax associated with it can be terminated, Rupp told the commissioners.

Commissioner Ron Mellick asked if funds from the district could be used to repair streets and sidewalks in the district. He expressed concerns about the intersection of 43rd and Sherman.

City Manager Toby Dougherty said they could be used either as part of the maintenance district or as funds that will be now captured in the general fund.

The district includes Home Depot, IHOP, JT Travel Plaza, Towneplace Suites and the Hampton Inn.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590106072450.jpeg" alt="A new City of Hays water tower design." />
 <figcaption>A new City of Hays water tower design.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays City Commission gave the go ahead Thursday night for Fort Hays State University to paint a new design on the water tower just south of Interstate 70.The design would include the university logo on the east side of the tower with the message "Welcome to Hays, Home of Fort Hays State University."The west side of the tower would have the Sternberg Museum of Natural History logo and name on it with the message "Next Exit.""My logic is when you are coming from the east heading west on I-70, there are plenty of directions to the Sternberg Museum to get off on Commerce Parkway," Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer, said, "but there is nothing big and bold that welcomes you to Hays and really speaks to the partnership between the university and the city."Cason said drivers from the west are likely to miss the museum because of lack of signage.The work would be the result of an existing agreement with the city and would be completed by the college at no cost to the city.The 1 million-gallon water tower was repainted in summer 2018. It has remained white since then. The city considered adding a city mural to the tower but the commission opted not to move forward with the project.The tower before the most recent painting only displayed the Sternberg logo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590106595297.png" alt="Jeff Crispin, city director of water resources, displays the former water tower logo." />
 <figcaption>Jeff Crispin, city director of water resources, displays the former water tower logo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Lights were added to the tower when it was painted. Officials estimate the coating on the tower will last about 25 years.<h2>230th Ave. and 55th St.</h2>In its work session, the city commission also heard a report on a $1.5 million grant for improvements to 230th Avenue and 55th Street.The KDOT grant provides $1.5 million to offset the cost of construction. Because KDOT funds are involved, it is necessary for the City of Hays to manage the project. D&amp;J Land and Development will pay for all of the engineering and design and construction inspection engineering costs for the project. The developer will also be responsible for any construction costs if they exceed the $1.5 million. The city’s role in this project is only management and oversight.<h2>Vine Street roundabout bonds</h2>The city heard from&nbsp;Kim Rupp, city finance director, who said the city will need to approve a resolution at its next meeting stating its intent to issue general obligation bonds for the Vine Street roundabout project.The city will provide an estimated $7.1 million toward the financing of the project.The city plans to initially pay such costs with available funds from the capital projects fund and will later be reimbursed with proceeds of general obligation bonds, which are expected to be issued in late 2020 or early 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Termination of Home Depot TDD&nbsp;</h2>The costs associated with the Home Depot&nbsp;transportation development district have been met, which means the district and the 3/4 cent sales tax associated with it can be terminated, Rupp told the commissioners.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590108030472.png" alt="Home Depot TDD" />
 <figcaption>Home Depot TDD</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioner Ron Mellick asked if funds from the district could be used to repair streets and sidewalks in the district. He expressed concerns about the intersection of 43rd and Sherman.City Manager Toby Dougherty said they could be used either as part of the maintenance district or as funds that will be now captured in the general fund.The district includes Home Depot, IHOP, JT Travel Plaza, Towneplace Suites and the Hampton Inn.

Commission OKs new look for water tower

ELLIS — Because of the recent strain on the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, help is needed to stock the Ellis Food Pantry.&nbsp; You can help by donating nonperishable food items.&nbsp; 

From 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, please drive by and place donations in the STOCK TANK to be located at the corner of 12th and Main/Washington Street near the Ellis United Methodist Church.&nbsp; 

Items you might want to bring include cans of meat, vegetables, fruit, and soup as well as pasta, boxed dinners, peanut butter and jelly.&nbsp; If you would prefer to make a monetary donation, please mail or deliver it to the Ellis Alliance Office, 820 Washington, Ellis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582917685536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS — Because of the recent strain on the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, help is needed to stock the Ellis Food Pantry.&nbsp; You can help by donating nonperishable food items.&nbsp; From 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, please drive by and place donations in the STOCK TANK to be located at the corner of 12th and Main/Washington Street near the Ellis United Methodist Church.&nbsp; Items you might want to bring include cans of meat, vegetables, fruit, and soup as well as pasta, boxed dinners, peanut butter and jelly.&nbsp; If you would prefer to make a monetary donation, please mail or deliver it to the Ellis Alliance Office, 820 Washington, Ellis.&nbsp;&nbsp;— Submitted

Food drive will help stock Ellis Food Pantry

Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp; announced that Tom Gentile, CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, is the final member of the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce, which&nbsp;is&nbsp;charged with leading Kansas forward in recovery from the far-reaching effects of COVID-19.

Earlier today, the governor announced the other members of the&nbsp;SPARK Taskforce, which will be responsible for the statewide distribution of CARES Act funding. The taskforce will be comprised of a five-member executive committee and an additional 15 member steering committee. The task force will be comprised of three subcommittees that will focus on communication and engagement, finance and policy development and implementation and accountability.

“I look forward to working with this distinguished group of leaders as we move Kansas forward in our recovery efforts,” Kelly said. “I am grateful to Tom and all members of SPARK Taskforce for their willingness to serve in this critical endeavor.”

Executive Committee&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tom Bell,&nbsp;President and CEO, Kansas Hospital Association, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lyle Butler,&nbsp;President and CEO, Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce (retired, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Jim Denning,&nbsp;Vice President, Discover Vision Centers, Overland Park, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jill Docking, Senior Vice President, The Docking Group – Baird Financial, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alise&nbsp;Martiny,&nbsp;Business Manager, Greater KC Building and Trades Council, Shawnee, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tom Gentile,&nbsp;CEO, Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita, Kansas;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natalie Haag, Attorney, Capitol Federal Savings, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;David Harwood, Senior Vice President, Terracon&nbsp;Consultants&nbsp;&amp; Chair,&nbsp;KANSASWorks&nbsp;State Board,&nbsp;Olathe, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Tom Hawk, Ranking Minority Member, Senate Ways and Means Committee, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Representative Dan Hawkins, House Majority Leader, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Edward Honesty, Jr., President &amp; Chief Operating Officer, Best Harvest Bakeries, Kansas City, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chuck&nbsp;Mageral, Proprietor, Free State Brewing Company, Lawrence, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;David McCarty, Owner, McCarty Family Farms, Colby, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Carolyn McGinn,&nbsp;Chair, Senate Ways and Means Committee, Sedgwick, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shelia Nelson-Stout, President and CEO, OCCK, Inc., Salina, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Neelima&nbsp;Parasker, President &amp; CEO,&nbsp;SnapIT&nbsp;Solutions, Overland Park, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jim Robinson, Partner, Hite Fanning &amp;&nbsp;Honeyman, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Secretary David Toland, Department of Commerce,&nbsp;Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Representative Troy&nbsp;Waymaster,&nbsp;Chair, House Appropriations Committee,&nbsp;Bunker Hill, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Representative Kathy Wolfe-Moore,&nbsp;Ranking&nbsp;Minority&nbsp;Member, House Appropriations Committee, Kansas City, Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589830819561.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorGovernor Laura Kelly&nbsp; announced that Tom Gentile, CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, is the final member of the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce, which&nbsp;is&nbsp;charged with leading Kansas forward in recovery from the far-reaching effects of COVID-19.Earlier today, the governor announced the other members of the&nbsp;SPARK Taskforce, which will be responsible for the statewide distribution of CARES Act funding. The taskforce will be comprised of a five-member executive committee and an additional 15 member steering committee. The task force will be comprised of three subcommittees that will focus on communication and engagement, finance and policy development and implementation and accountability.“I look forward to working with this distinguished group of leaders as we move Kansas forward in our recovery efforts,” Kelly said. “I am grateful to Tom and all members of SPARK Taskforce for their willingness to serve in this critical endeavor.”SPARK’s full membership is as follows:Executive Committee&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tom Bell,&nbsp;President and CEO, Kansas Hospital Association, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lyle Butler,&nbsp;President and CEO, Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce (retired, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Jim Denning,&nbsp;Vice President, Discover Vision Centers, Overland Park, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jill Docking, Senior Vice President, The Docking Group – Baird Financial, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alise&nbsp;Martiny,&nbsp;Business Manager, Greater KC Building and Trades Council, Shawnee, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Steering Committee·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tom Gentile,&nbsp;CEO, Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita, Kansas;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natalie Haag, Attorney, Capitol Federal Savings, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;David Harwood, Senior Vice President, Terracon&nbsp;Consultants&nbsp;&amp; Chair,&nbsp;KANSASWorks&nbsp;State Board,&nbsp;Olathe, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Tom Hawk, Ranking Minority Member, Senate Ways and Means Committee, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Representative Dan Hawkins, House Majority Leader, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Edward Honesty, Jr., President &amp; Chief Operating Officer, Best Harvest Bakeries, Kansas City, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chuck&nbsp;Mageral, Proprietor, Free State Brewing Company, Lawrence, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;David McCarty, Owner, McCarty Family Farms, Colby, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Carolyn McGinn,&nbsp;Chair, Senate Ways and Means Committee, Sedgwick, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shelia Nelson-Stout, President and CEO, OCCK, Inc., Salina, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Neelima&nbsp;Parasker, President &amp; CEO,&nbsp;SnapIT&nbsp;Solutions, Overland Park, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jim Robinson, Partner, Hite Fanning &amp;&nbsp;Honeyman, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Secretary David Toland, Department of Commerce,&nbsp;Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Representative Troy&nbsp;Waymaster,&nbsp;Chair, House Appropriations Committee,&nbsp;Bunker Hill, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Representative Kathy Wolfe-Moore,&nbsp;Ranking&nbsp;Minority&nbsp;Member, House Appropriations Committee, Kansas City, Kansas.&nbsp;

Rep. Waymaster, Colby farmer named to SPARK Taskforce

The Topeka Capital-Journal published a stunning story this week on foster care in Kansas. It begs the question: Why hasn’t the legislature prioritized foster care oversight and reform in the last decade?

From 2016 to 2018 under Governors Sam Brownback and Jeff Colyer, the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) “secretly withheld” millions of dollars from private foster care contractors. Those nonprofits suffered significant financial strain, which negatively impacted children in state custody.

These facts are just now becoming public since the contractors had been “bound by a state-imposed nondisclosure agreement[s].” Governor Laura Kelly resolved the issue after assuming office.

Problems with foster care in Kansas are nothing new. You might remember missing children, kids sleeping in contractor offices, and archaic DCF technology, among others. This new revelation is another sad wrinkle.

The key quote in the article comes from Sen. Richard Hilderbrand of Cherokee County: “It infuriates me that that was our mode of operation instead of doing what’s right. The kids are in such a traumatic state anyway, and then we put them through that.”

He’s right. These actions are infuriating, falling somewhere between petty bureaucratic politics and state-sanctioned child neglect.&nbsp;

Foremost, “we” is Brownback, Colyer, and their administration officials. Their shortchanging of foster care should define their moral legacy.

However, the buck doesn’t stop there. “We” is also the Kansas legislature.&nbsp;

There are unanswered questions about the role of the legislature here, especially leaders of the two chambers and relevant committee chairs—the folks with the real institutional power, some of whom still serve in Topeka. What did you know and when? If you didn’t know what was happening, why?&nbsp;

Basically, where was the oversight that could have stopped or prevented this? Where was the enthusiasm to check executive power back then?

During those years, the major legislative innovation on foster care was establishing the Child Welfare System Task Force in 2017 to suggest legislation and regulatory changes. Basically, a study committee. Its 2019 report to the legislature is available online.

As media have since reported, the legislature has largely ignored the Task Force’s recommendations. The Governor also lacks the power to fully implement them herself because many require legislation.&nbsp;

Why spend money to create the Task Force, and then ignore its work? Disagreement with its recommendations? Low interest? Low political payoff, especially compared to recent tax and abortion debates that commanded legislative attention but yielded nothing? Money, of lack thereof? That’s always a rationale for avoidance, especially now with Kansas facing a budget shortfall.&nbsp;

To Topeka’s credit, the Family First Prevention Services Act became law in 2018 to capitalize on federal dollars focused on prevention strategies, but it pre-dates the still dangling Task Force report.&nbsp;

Yes, some legislators have promoted better foster care oversight and policy, most notably Representative Jarrod Ousley and former Representative Linda Gallagher, both of Johnson County. Others have assuredly devoted their attention. Governor Kelly also campaigned in 2018 on better foster care management, and has enacted some reforms. &nbsp;

Fully addressing these problems requires the legislature to invest attention and caring, and work with the Governor. If the legislature is an absent governing partner, that resigns Kansas to limited and possibly less effective foster care reform. The ultimate political losers of that are vulnerable Kansas children.

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Topeka Capital-Journal published a stunning story this week on foster care in Kansas. It begs the question: Why hasn’t the legislature prioritized foster care oversight and reform in the last decade?From 2016 to 2018 under Governors Sam Brownback and Jeff Colyer, the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) “secretly withheld” millions of dollars from private foster care contractors. Those nonprofits suffered significant financial strain, which negatively impacted children in state custody.These facts are just now becoming public since the contractors had been “bound by a state-imposed nondisclosure agreement[s].” Governor Laura Kelly resolved the issue after assuming office.Problems with foster care in Kansas are nothing new. You might remember missing children, kids sleeping in contractor offices, and archaic DCF technology, among others. This new revelation is another sad wrinkle.The key quote in the article comes from Sen. Richard Hilderbrand of Cherokee County: “It infuriates me that that was our mode of operation instead of doing what’s right. The kids are in such a traumatic state anyway, and then we put them through that.”He’s right. These actions are infuriating, falling somewhere between petty bureaucratic politics and state-sanctioned child neglect.&nbsp;But, who is ‘we” in his quote?Foremost, “we” is Brownback, Colyer, and their administration officials. Their shortchanging of foster care should define their moral legacy.However, the buck doesn’t stop there. “We” is also the Kansas legislature.&nbsp;There are unanswered questions about the role of the legislature here, especially leaders of the two chambers and relevant committee chairs—the folks with the real institutional power, some of whom still serve in Topeka. What did you know and when? If you didn’t know what was happening, why?&nbsp;Basically, where was the oversight that could have stopped or prevented this? Where was the enthusiasm to check executive power back then?During those years, the major legislative innovation on foster care was establishing the Child Welfare System Task Force in 2017 to suggest legislation and regulatory changes. Basically, a study committee. Its 2019 report to the legislature is available online.As media have since reported, the legislature has largely ignored the Task Force’s recommendations. The Governor also lacks the power to fully implement them herself because many require legislation.&nbsp;Why spend money to create the Task Force, and then ignore its work? Disagreement with its recommendations? Low interest? Low political payoff, especially compared to recent tax and abortion debates that commanded legislative attention but yielded nothing? Money, of lack thereof? That’s always a rationale for avoidance, especially now with Kansas facing a budget shortfall.&nbsp;To Topeka’s credit, the Family First Prevention Services Act became law in 2018 to capitalize on federal dollars focused on prevention strategies, but it pre-dates the still dangling Task Force report.&nbsp;Yes, some legislators have promoted better foster care oversight and policy, most notably Representative Jarrod Ousley and former Representative Linda Gallagher, both of Johnson County. Others have assuredly devoted their attention. Governor Kelly also campaigned in 2018 on better foster care management, and has enacted some reforms. &nbsp;Fully addressing these problems requires the legislature to invest attention and caring, and work with the Governor. If the legislature is an absent governing partner, that resigns Kansas to limited and possibly less effective foster care reform. The ultimate political losers of that are vulnerable Kansas children.Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Foster care revelations raise political, policy questions

Three-day weather outlook

PRATT – Kansas’ 28 state parks, 63 state fishing lakes, and more than 100 wildlife areas remain open to the public and will be popular destinations over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. From camping and horseback riding, to boating and disc golf, there’s no shortage of fun to be had at Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) areas, but visitors must remain steadfast in practicing social distancing, among other safety measures, to ensure these special places remain open and accessible to all.

“We want visitors to enjoy themselves, so long as social distancing is practiced,” Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman said. “Our staff have done an incredible job maintaining our parks, and ensuring that facilities remain open, but it’s ultimately up to the public to look out for each other and practice social distancing so we can all remain in good health and continue having these beautiful places to recreate.”

Here’s how visitors can safely enjoy their time at Kansas state parks over the holiday weekend and throughout the summer:

Practice social distancing, even on the water&nbsp;– While six feet is the standard measure for effective social distancing, maintaining a safe distance may look different while on a trail or on the water. Boaters – especially those recreating in or around coves – can practice social distancing by refraining from tying up to other vessels and instead anchoring vessels individually. Boating passengers should also refrain from moving between vessels.

Allow for ample time at boat ramps&nbsp;– Launching a vessel may take a little longer than normal. Plan ahead by having everything ready and packed on your boat before backing down the ramp. Many state park reservoirs and fishing lakes have multiple access points – visitors can benefit from knowing them ahead of time by referencing area maps at&nbsp;<a href="http://ksoutdoors.com/">ksoutdoors.com</a>. If a desired boat ramp is congested, consider launching at an alternate ramp or parking at a distance until the area clears.

Make reservations and purchases online&nbsp;– While state park staff are on duty to ensure Kansas’ state parks are safe, and that park facilities are regularly cleaned and disinfected, visitors are encouraged to conduct reservation and license purchase needs through KDWPT’s free mobile apps – CampIt KS and HuntFish KS. Campsite reservations can also be made on&nbsp;<a href="http://reserveamerica.com/">ReserveAmerica.com</a>, and license purchases made on&nbsp;<a href="http://kshuntfishcamp.com/">KSHuntFishCamp.com</a>.

Keep to your camp&nbsp;– KDWPT-managed campsites are perfectly-suited to space visitors a safe distance apart. Visitors should use these designated areas to their advantage and keep family and friends safe by refraining from visiting other campsites or combining sites.

The wild spaces and fun places managed by KDWPT are intended to be enjoyed by all – help KDWPT keep these areas open by practicing social distancing and refraining from gathering in large groups.

For more on outdoor recreation opportunities in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://ksoutdoors.com/">ksoutdoors.com</a>.

KDWPTPRATT – Kansas’ 28 state parks, 63 state fishing lakes, and more than 100 wildlife areas remain open to the public and will be popular destinations over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. From camping and horseback riding, to boating and disc golf, there’s no shortage of fun to be had at Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) areas, but visitors must remain steadfast in practicing social distancing, among other safety measures, to ensure these special places remain open and accessible to all.“We want visitors to enjoy themselves, so long as social distancing is practiced,” Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman said. “Our staff have done an incredible job maintaining our parks, and ensuring that facilities remain open, but it’s ultimately up to the public to look out for each other and practice social distancing so we can all remain in good health and continue having these beautiful places to recreate.”Here’s how visitors can safely enjoy their time at Kansas state parks over the holiday weekend and throughout the summer:Practice social distancing, even on the water&nbsp;– While six feet is the standard measure for effective social distancing, maintaining a safe distance may look different while on a trail or on the water. Boaters – especially those recreating in or around coves – can practice social distancing by refraining from tying up to other vessels and instead anchoring vessels individually. Boating passengers should also refrain from moving between vessels.Allow for ample time at boat ramps&nbsp;– Launching a vessel may take a little longer than normal. Plan ahead by having everything ready and packed on your boat before backing down the ramp. Many state park reservoirs and fishing lakes have multiple access points – visitors can benefit from knowing them ahead of time by referencing area maps at&nbsp;<a href="http://ksoutdoors.com/">ksoutdoors.com</a>. If a desired boat ramp is congested, consider launching at an alternate ramp or parking at a distance until the area clears.Make reservations and purchases online&nbsp;– While state park staff are on duty to ensure Kansas’ state parks are safe, and that park facilities are regularly cleaned and disinfected, visitors are encouraged to conduct reservation and license purchase needs through KDWPT’s free mobile apps – CampIt KS and HuntFish KS. Campsite reservations can also be made on&nbsp;<a href="http://reserveamerica.com/">ReserveAmerica.com</a>, and license purchases made on&nbsp;<a href="http://kshuntfishcamp.com/">KSHuntFishCamp.com</a>.Keep to your camp&nbsp;– KDWPT-managed campsites are perfectly-suited to space visitors a safe distance apart. Visitors should use these designated areas to their advantage and keep family and friends safe by refraining from visiting other campsites or combining sites.The wild spaces and fun places managed by KDWPT are intended to be enjoyed by all – help KDWPT keep these areas open by practicing social distancing and refraining from gathering in large groups.For more on outdoor recreation opportunities in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://ksoutdoors.com/">ksoutdoors.com</a>.

How to safely enjoy Kan. state parks during holiday weekend

GOVE COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Thursday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 20002 Honda Civic driven by Alan&nbsp; Venzor-Loya, 28, Denver, CO.,&nbsp; was eastbound on Interstate 70 at the Grainfield exit.

The car left the roadway to the south, struck a guard rail and reentered the roadway coming to rest facing west in the eastbound lane.

EMS transported&nbsp; Venzor-Loya to the Gove County Medical Center. KHP did not report seat belt usage.

GOVE COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Thursday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 20002 Honda Civic driven by Alan&nbsp; Venzor-Loya, 28, Denver, CO.,&nbsp; was eastbound on Interstate 70 at the Grainfield exit.The car left the roadway to the south, struck a guard rail and reentered the roadway coming to rest facing west in the eastbound lane.EMS transported&nbsp; Venzor-Loya to the Gove County Medical Center. KHP did not report seat belt usage.

Driver hospitalized after car strikes guardrail on I-70

Kansas crude prices topped $20 a barrel for the first time in two months. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson gained $2.25 Monday to $22 a barrel.

New numbers from the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) confirm crude-oil production dropping in most of the counties in Kansas last year. One exception in our area is Stafford County, which increased production over the year before by more than 21,000 barrels. Barton County reports total production last year dropped more than 64,000 barrels from the year before. Ellis County's total dropped more than 76,000 barrels last year. 2019 production in Russell County was down 58,000 from the year before.&nbsp;

KGS this week also released county production totals for the month of January, with the entire state and most counties reporting declines compared to January of last year. But Stafford County outproduced its total from a year earlier by about 4,000 barrels.&nbsp;

Kansas regulators approved just three new drilling permits last week, two in Ellis County and one in Greeley County. That's 182 permits for drilling at new locations so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports just nine new well completions for the week, eight of them in Western Kansas. That's 360 completions so far this year.

Baker Hughes reported its sixth weekly decline in the U.S. Rotary Rig Count. Since the second week in March, the national count has dropped more than half, down 454 rigs. For the week ending May 15, the total was 339 active rigs, down 34 oil rigs and one gas rig. Texas reported just 150 active rigs, down 23 for the week. New Mexico and North Dakota were each down four.

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports just seven active rigs across Kansas. The count east of Wichita dropped to zero, down two rigs. In Western Kansas the count is down one to seven rigs. Drilling was underway on one lease in Ellis County last week.

The Energy Information Administration reported a slight draw-down in U.S. crude-oil inventories for the week ending May 8. That contradicts predictions earlier from S&amp;P Global Platts and the American Petroleum Institute, which both predicted inventory increases. EIA said stockpiles were down 700,000 barrels to 531.5 million barrels.

The government said crude-oil imports dropped more than five percent, with the four-week average more than 26% below the same figure a year ago.

The government said weekly production in the U.S. dropped by more than 300,000 barrels per day to just over eleven point six million barrels per day.

A closely-watched government report predicts continuing decreases in liquid fuels demand for the first half of this year, because of travel restrictions and other disruptions to economic activity. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts prices this year will average just over half of the average last year. In its Short Term Energy Outlook, EIA predicts global demand will drop by more than eight million barrels per day this year, after dropping six percent in the first quarter. The report predicts continuing declines in U.S. production and continuing growth in global inventories.

Another state is considering intervention to reduce crude oil production, asking operators if producing oil at substantially reduced prices is wasting an important natural resource. Oklahoma has allowed such a declaration to protect leaseholders who shut down production. But in North Dakota, oil-patch representatives fear the state could move to curtail production. The industry overwhelmingly opposed the waste declaration, which could enable the state to order production cuts. The Grand Forks Herald reports there are a few companies that support the proposal, including Continental Resources, the biggest producer in the state.

March crude production in North Dakota dropped another 30,000 barrels a day. The Department of Mineral Resources reports monthly output of just over 1.4 million barrels per day. The state set a record for the captured volume of natural gas produced at oil wells, at two point seven million million-cubic-feet-per-day.

The government predicts a continuing decline in domestic shale-oil production. EIA says total U.S. shale output is now expected to drop by 197,000 barrels per day from May to June, after dropping 183,000 barrels per day the month before.

It appears current prices are high enough to alleviate many concerns over crude-oil storage. The government says storage use has flattened out, after a run on supertankers and inland storage facilities last month. EIA says our current net stockpiles represent 62% of working storage capacity for the week ending May 8. That's unchanged from the week before, but remains 16% higher than at the first of the year. Storage usage at Cushing, Oklahoma actually went down four percent.

Oil-by-rail in the U.S. dropped to 9,554 rail tanker cars last week, down nearly 27% compared to a year earlier. Total freight train traffic is down more than 22%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574099516454.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARKansas crude prices topped $20 a barrel for the first time in two months. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson gained $2.25 Monday to $22 a barrel.New numbers from the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) confirm crude-oil production dropping in most of the counties in Kansas last year. One exception in our area is Stafford County, which increased production over the year before by more than 21,000 barrels. Barton County reports total production last year dropped more than 64,000 barrels from the year before. Ellis County's total dropped more than 76,000 barrels last year. 2019 production in Russell County was down 58,000 from the year before.&nbsp;KGS this week also released county production totals for the month of January, with the entire state and most counties reporting declines compared to January of last year. But Stafford County outproduced its total from a year earlier by about 4,000 barrels.&nbsp;Kansas regulators approved just three new drilling permits last week, two in Ellis County and one in Greeley County. That's 182 permits for drilling at new locations so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports just nine new well completions for the week, eight of them in Western Kansas. That's 360 completions so far this year.Baker Hughes reported its sixth weekly decline in the U.S. Rotary Rig Count. Since the second week in March, the national count has dropped more than half, down 454 rigs. For the week ending May 15, the total was 339 active rigs, down 34 oil rigs and one gas rig. Texas reported just 150 active rigs, down 23 for the week. New Mexico and North Dakota were each down four.Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports just seven active rigs across Kansas. The count east of Wichita dropped to zero, down two rigs. In Western Kansas the count is down one to seven rigs. Drilling was underway on one lease in Ellis County last week.The Energy Information Administration reported a slight draw-down in U.S. crude-oil inventories for the week ending May 8. That contradicts predictions earlier from S&amp;P Global Platts and the American Petroleum Institute, which both predicted inventory increases. EIA said stockpiles were down 700,000 barrels to 531.5 million barrels.The government said crude-oil imports dropped more than five percent, with the four-week average more than 26% below the same figure a year ago.The government said weekly production in the U.S. dropped by more than 300,000 barrels per day to just over eleven point six million barrels per day.A closely-watched government report predicts continuing decreases in liquid fuels demand for the first half of this year, because of travel restrictions and other disruptions to economic activity. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts prices this year will average just over half of the average last year. In its Short Term Energy Outlook, EIA predicts global demand will drop by more than eight million barrels per day this year, after dropping six percent in the first quarter. The report predicts continuing declines in U.S. production and continuing growth in global inventories.Another state is considering intervention to reduce crude oil production, asking operators if producing oil at substantially reduced prices is wasting an important natural resource. Oklahoma has allowed such a declaration to protect leaseholders who shut down production. But in North Dakota, oil-patch representatives fear the state could move to curtail production. The industry overwhelmingly opposed the waste declaration, which could enable the state to order production cuts. The Grand Forks Herald reports there are a few companies that support the proposal, including Continental Resources, the biggest producer in the state.March crude production in North Dakota dropped another 30,000 barrels a day. The Department of Mineral Resources reports monthly output of just over 1.4 million barrels per day. The state set a record for the captured volume of natural gas produced at oil wells, at two point seven million million-cubic-feet-per-day.The government predicts a continuing decline in domestic shale-oil production. EIA says total U.S. shale output is now expected to drop by 197,000 barrels per day from May to June, after dropping 183,000 barrels per day the month before.It appears current prices are high enough to alleviate many concerns over crude-oil storage. The government says storage use has flattened out, after a run on supertankers and inland storage facilities last month. EIA says our current net stockpiles represent 62% of working storage capacity for the week ending May 8. That's unchanged from the week before, but remains 16% higher than at the first of the year. Storage usage at Cushing, Oklahoma actually went down four percent.Oil-by-rail in the U.S. dropped to 9,554 rail tanker cars last week, down nearly 27% compared to a year earlier. Total freight train traffic is down more than 22%.

News From the Oil Patch: Kan. crude tops $20 a barrel

A day after announcing a new head girls' basketball coach, Hays High has announced the hiring of Shannon Funk as its new volleyball coach. She is a longtime staple in the western Kansas volleyball community. As an employee of Hays Recreation Commission, she revitalized the volleyball summer league for middle and high school teams. The league played in Hays saw more than 50 teams playing at its peak.&nbsp;

In 2007 Funk established Western Kansas Elite. She ran the club volleyball team through 2017 increasing the teams from one her first year to thirteen her final season at the helm. Those thirteen squads totaled more than 100 girls.&nbsp;

Funk has also coached in the schools of Hays. Following graduation in 1999 she became the girls "B" team basketball coach at Felten Middle School from 1999 through 2004 and was the assistant volleyball coach from 2000 through 2005. In her first return to Hays High she was an assistant on the volleyball team for 2006 and 2007 and an assistant on the girls basketball team from 2005 through 2007.&nbsp;

Funk also spent one season at Fort Hays State University as a volunteer assistant coach in 2008.&nbsp;

Funk was the first volleyball coach at TMP-Marian Middle School and held the position for two years before joining her sister on the TMP-Marian High School staff. She assisted Natasha Dreher from 2014 through 2017. Her final season as an assistant was the same year that TMP won the 3A state title.&nbsp;

Funk will also teach Social Studies and Physical Education at Hays High School. She was approved as the head volleyball coach in January and as a result has had the opportunity to meet with her team on a few occasions before the COVID-19 pandemic halted on-campus classes.&nbsp;

She replaces Christin Nunnery who stepped down at the end of the 2019 season.

A day after announcing a new head girls' basketball coach, Hays High has announced the hiring of Shannon Funk as its new volleyball coach. She is a longtime staple in the western Kansas volleyball community. As an employee of Hays Recreation Commission, she revitalized the volleyball summer league for middle and high school teams. The league played in Hays saw more than 50 teams playing at its peak.&nbsp;In 2007 Funk established Western Kansas Elite. She ran the club volleyball team through 2017 increasing the teams from one her first year to thirteen her final season at the helm. Those thirteen squads totaled more than 100 girls.&nbsp;Funk has also coached in the schools of Hays. Following graduation in 1999 she became the girls "B" team basketball coach at Felten Middle School from 1999 through 2004 and was the assistant volleyball coach from 2000 through 2005. In her first return to Hays High she was an assistant on the volleyball team for 2006 and 2007 and an assistant on the girls basketball team from 2005 through 2007.&nbsp;Funk also spent one season at Fort Hays State University as a volunteer assistant coach in 2008.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/825192418&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/shannon-funk-hhs-volleyball" title="Shannon Funk - HHS Volleyball" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Shannon Funk - HHS Volleyball</a></div></div>Funk was the first volleyball coach at TMP-Marian Middle School and held the position for two years before joining her sister on the TMP-Marian High School staff. She assisted Natasha Dreher from 2014 through 2017. Her final season as an assistant was the same year that TMP won the 3A state title.&nbsp;Funk will also teach Social Studies and Physical Education at Hays High School. She was approved as the head volleyball coach in January and as a result has had the opportunity to meet with her team on a few occasions before the COVID-19 pandemic halted on-campus classes.&nbsp;She replaces Christin Nunnery who stepped down at the end of the 2019 season.

UPDATE: Hays High announces Funk as volleyball coach

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., released the following statement after the passing of Hays native Harold Kraus:&nbsp;

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Harold Kraus, a great Kansan, agriculture advocate and my friend. Harold was a Hays soybean farmer that recognized the potential of biodiesel early and played a significant role in advancing our nation’s biodiesel industry into what it is today. He was recognized by the National Biodiesel Board for his efforts and effective advocacy as the primary representative for the Kansas Soybean Commission for many years.

“I always enjoyed seeing Harold when he visited my D.C. office, but even more so I enjoyed seeing him in our home community of Hays. During my days in the state legislature, I was able to serve Ellis County alongside him during part of his 16 years of service as county commissioner. I have admired his devotion to Hays, Kansas and the ag community and valued his friendship for many years.

“There was no kinder couple than Harold and his wife, Virginia, and Robba and I always enjoyed their company. I’ll be thinking of Virginia and the rest of his family, especially during these difficult times when the ag community needs champions like Harold fighting for them.”

For more on Kraus' life, click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ec59e20eb7f170536057007">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590067961449.jpeg" alt="Harold Kraus" />
 <figcaption>Harold Kraus</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., released the following statement after the passing of Hays native Harold Kraus:&nbsp;“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Harold Kraus, a great Kansan, agriculture advocate and my friend. Harold was a Hays soybean farmer that recognized the potential of biodiesel early and played a significant role in advancing our nation’s biodiesel industry into what it is today. He was recognized by the National Biodiesel Board for his efforts and effective advocacy as the primary representative for the Kansas Soybean Commission for many years.“I always enjoyed seeing Harold when he visited my D.C. office, but even more so I enjoyed seeing him in our home community of Hays. During my days in the state legislature, I was able to serve Ellis County alongside him during part of his 16 years of service as county commissioner. I have admired his devotion to Hays, Kansas and the ag community and valued his friendship for many years.“There was no kinder couple than Harold and his wife, Virginia, and Robba and I always enjoyed their company. I’ll be thinking of Virginia and the rest of his family, especially during these difficult times when the ag community needs champions like Harold fighting for them.”For more on Kraus' life, click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ec59e20eb7f170536057007">HERE</a>.

MORAN: Kraus a 'champion' of the ag community

Severe weather is expected to develop Thursday afternoon across western Kansas that may impact the Hays area.

"We have some potential for storms to develop, first across western Kansas," said Wes Hovorka, National Weather Service meteorologist in Dodge City. "That will slowly drift to the east/southeast this evening."

The storms are expected to be large enough to produce hail up to two inches in diameter, he said.

With the storm there is a low chance of tornado development, Hovorka said, but it cannot be ruled out.

Overnight the storms are expected to move southeast, toward the Dodge City area, but may reach as far north as Hays.

As storms develop tonight hail is again expected, but not as large as the afternoon, and are expected to produce heavy rainfall.

"It's more of a wind threat as we move into the evening,"&nbsp;Hovorka said.

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hays&amp;state=KS&amp;site=DDC&amp;lat=38.8782&amp;lon=-99.3188#.XsbVnGhKjmF">For the full forecast for Hays from the NWS click here.</a>

By JAMES BELL Hays PostSevere weather is expected to develop Thursday afternoon across western Kansas that may impact the Hays area."We have some potential for storms to develop, first across western Kansas," said Wes Hovorka, National Weather Service meteorologist in Dodge City. "That will slowly drift to the east/southeast this evening."The storms are expected to be large enough to produce hail up to two inches in diameter, he said.With the storm there is a low chance of tornado development, Hovorka said, but it cannot be ruled out.Overnight the storms are expected to move southeast, toward the Dodge City area, but may reach as far north as Hays.As storms develop tonight hail is again expected, but not as large as the afternoon, and are expected to produce heavy rainfall."It's more of a wind threat as we move into the evening,"&nbsp;Hovorka said.<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hays&amp;state=KS&amp;site=DDC&amp;lat=38.8782&amp;lon=-99.3188#.XsbVnGhKjmF">For the full forecast for Hays from the NWS click here.</a>

Severe weather to roll into area Thursday afternoon

The Hays school board received a price tag Monday night for a replacement to the Roosevelt Elementary school HVAC system.

Joe Glassman, president/CEO of Glassman Corp., estimated replacement of the system would cost $1.1 million to $1.6 million.

Glassman said the HVAC system at the school, which was installed in 1967, has well outlived its life expectancy and was in "dire need" of replacement.

The average lifespan for similar systems is 25 years.

"There are a lot of leaks," Glassman said. "There is insulation off of it. One of the things we noticed that there were areas that were tagged for asbestos."

Glassman said the company would recommend to any school district to remove asbestos.

"It becomes a liability at a certain point in time," he said.

Rusty Lindsay, USD 489 buildings and grounds director, said he was not sure if the stickers at Roosevelt were correct. He said he would have to look at the district's management plan.&nbsp;

He said he thought asbestos had been removed from the other district buildings.

Glassman said if asbestos remained in any other locations in the district, it would be more cost effective to have a contractor remove all of it at once. He recommended spot checks of the buildings based on the management plan.

Roosevelt has a two-pipe heating and cooling system. Glassman said it is difficult to get parts for the pneumatic controls that the Roosevelt system uses.

Most systems have gone to digital controls, which is what Glassman recommended. He said the control system should be simple and have the capacity to be operated by local maintenance staff.

Glassman said the boiler is also on its last leg, as is the chiller.

"You've got your use out of the system," Glassman said. "It has met and exceeded all of the guidelines to heat and cool a building. Deterioration has set in, especially in the piping system."

Glassman said they found some classrooms where the HVAC systems were almost inoperable.

"We had some teachers say it's always cold here and it's always been cold here or it's always warm here, and it's always been warm here. It's always noisy," Glassman said.

Glassman said he thought the school would be able to use the air conditioning this fall and heater this winter, but it would not last another season.

He said the pipe is so rusted that one could break and flood a tunnel and the school staff might not know it was broken.

"There is no question that we are probably not taking care of the system from a student to teacher standpoint as far as comfortability," he said.

The board has discussed starting the engineering phase this summer and having the project completed next summer.

Glassman said the building also has water and sewer issues throughout the building. He said he also thought the gas lines need to be removed from the tunnels under the school.&nbsp;

HVAC pipes could be leaking in the tunnels onto the gas lines and causing deterioration of the gas lines, he said.

"What happens with districts that can't address maintenance issues is that you start Band-aiding things," Glassman said. "You put a piece of pipe in that doesn't match another piece of pipe, and you put dissimilar metals in. All of the sudden you have rust issues and a leak. ...

"Really I think that is what has happened in this building. It's served its life."

Glassman recommended a water-to-air heat pump system. Manufacturers usually give an 11- to 12-year warranty on the systems, but he said he did not know how long the systems will last beyond that.

An advantage to the system would be heat or air could be run anywhere in the building there was an air-handler at anytime.

Dewayne Vaughn of Integrated Consulting Engineers also told the board he would recommend the&nbsp;water-to-air heat pump system.

Vaughn said he would shy away from roof-top units. Although they are less expensive in the short-term, they tend to have shorter life spans.

Glassman recommended looking at a time other than summer to complete the project. He said he has success with completing work between 3 and 11 p.m. daily when buildings are not in use.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the board needed to decide if it wanted to use Vaughn as the engineer on the project or to seek more proposals for engineering services.

Board member Tammy Wellbrock said she supported the use of Vaughn as the engineer.

Vaughn has worked on other projects for the district.

She said she also wanted to see cost estimates on the electrical work, moving the gas lines and removing the asbestos.

Board member Allen Park wanted proposals from more engineers. The board is not required to seek bids on engineering services.

The board agreed through consensus to move forward with a contract with Vaughn. That contract will be presented to the board for a vote at its next meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590007907309.jpeg" alt="Corroded HVAC pipes in the tunnels under Roosevelt Elementary School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Corroded HVAC pipes in the tunnels under Roosevelt Elementary School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board received a price tag Monday night for a replacement to the Roosevelt Elementary school HVAC system.Joe Glassman, president/CEO of Glassman Corp., estimated replacement of the system would cost $1.1 million to $1.6 million.Glassman said the HVAC system at the school, which was installed in 1967, has well outlived its life expectancy and was in "dire need" of replacement.The average lifespan for similar systems is 25 years."There are a lot of leaks," Glassman said. "There is insulation off of it. One of the things we noticed that there were areas that were tagged for asbestos."Glassman said the company would recommend to any school district to remove asbestos."It becomes a liability at a certain point in time," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590008065737.png" alt="Caution tape marking asbestos in the tunnels under Roosevelt Elementary School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Caution tape marking asbestos in the tunnels under Roosevelt Elementary School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Rusty Lindsay, USD 489 buildings and grounds director, said he was not sure if the stickers at Roosevelt were correct. He said he would have to look at the district's management plan.&nbsp;He said he thought asbestos had been removed from the other district buildings.Glassman said if asbestos remained in any other locations in the district, it would be more cost effective to have a contractor remove all of it at once. He recommended spot checks of the buildings based on the management plan.Roosevelt has a two-pipe heating and cooling system. Glassman said it is difficult to get parts for the pneumatic controls that the Roosevelt system uses.Most systems have gone to digital controls, which is what Glassman recommended. He said the control system should be simple and have the capacity to be operated by local maintenance staff.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590008189341.jpeg" alt="Building and grounds director Rusty Lindsay speaks with school board members inside the Roosevelt boiler room during a tour of the school earlier this school year. Photo by Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>Building and grounds director Rusty Lindsay speaks with school board members inside the Roosevelt boiler room during a tour of the school earlier this school year. Photo by Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure>Glassman said the boiler is also on its last leg, as is the chiller."You've got your use out of the system," Glassman said. "It has met and exceeded all of the guidelines to heat and cool a building. Deterioration has set in, especially in the piping system."Glassman said they found some classrooms where the HVAC systems were almost inoperable."We had some teachers say it's always cold here and it's always been cold here or it's always warm here, and it's always been warm here. It's always noisy," Glassman said.Glassman said he thought the school would be able to use the air conditioning this fall and heater this winter, but it would not last another season.He said the pipe is so rusted that one could break and flood a tunnel and the school staff might not know it was broken."There is no question that we are probably not taking care of the system from a student to teacher standpoint as far as comfortability," he said.The board has discussed starting the engineering phase this summer and having the project completed next summer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590008398875.png" alt="Insulation is missing from Roosevelt HVAC pipes. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Insulation is missing from Roosevelt HVAC pipes. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Glassman said the building also has water and sewer issues throughout the building. He said he also thought the gas lines need to be removed from the tunnels under the school.&nbsp;HVAC pipes could be leaking in the tunnels onto the gas lines and causing deterioration of the gas lines, he said."What happens with districts that can't address maintenance issues is that you start Band-aiding things," Glassman said. "You put a piece of pipe in that doesn't match another piece of pipe, and you put dissimilar metals in. All of the sudden you have rust issues and a leak. ..."Really I think that is what has happened in this building. It's served its life."Glassman recommended a water-to-air heat pump system. Manufacturers usually give an 11- to 12-year warranty on the systems, but he said he did not know how long the systems will last beyond that.An advantage to the system would be heat or air could be run anywhere in the building there was an air-handler at anytime.Dewayne Vaughn of Integrated Consulting Engineers also told the board he would recommend the&nbsp;water-to-air heat pump system.Vaughn said he would shy away from roof-top units. Although they are less expensive in the short-term, they tend to have shorter life spans.Glassman recommended looking at a time other than summer to complete the project. He said he has success with completing work between 3 and 11 p.m. daily when buildings are not in use.Superintendent Ron Wilson said the board needed to decide if it wanted to use Vaughn as the engineer on the project or to seek more proposals for engineering services.Board member Tammy Wellbrock said she supported the use of Vaughn as the engineer.Vaughn has worked on other projects for the district.She said she also wanted to see cost estimates on the electrical work, moving the gas lines and removing the asbestos.Board member Allen Park wanted proposals from more engineers. The board is not required to seek bids on engineering services.The board agreed through consensus to move forward with a contract with Vaughn. That contract will be presented to the board for a vote at its next meeting.

Contractor: Roosevelt HVAC in dire need of replacement

Due to the observance of the Memorial Day on Monday, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows:

Monday and Tuesday routes will be picked up on Tuesday.

There is no anticipated change to Wednesday, Thursday or Friday’s collection schedules.

Although
 collections many not occur on your normal day, collections will be 
completed during the week. It is anticipated that heavy volumes of 
refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make 
sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that
 the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that
 may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid 
Waste Division of the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the observance of the Memorial Day on Monday, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows:Monday and Tuesday routes will be picked up on Tuesday.There is no anticipated change to Wednesday, Thursday or Friday’s collection schedules.Although
 collections many not occur on your normal day, collections will be 
completed during the week. It is anticipated that heavy volumes of 
refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make 
sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that
 the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that
 may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid 
Waste Division of the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

City alters trash pickups for Memorial Day holiday

Congratulations Trego Community High School class of 2020!

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Trego Community High School Class of 2020

This past weekend should have been our commencement ceremonies. During the weekend I took the opportunity to pause and reflect – to silently express my gratitude for the students who choose to make FHSU their alma mater and for the faculty who ensured our graduates were absolutely prepared for their next adventure.

I also thought about the letter I sent to our graduates earlier this year, which read in part: “Dear Students – I consider the commencement ceremonies we host each year to be among the most important and cherished traditions of this university. Commencement is the celebration of a life-changing and singular achievement – one that has been years and even decades in the making. Every student will tell a different story about the journey to their degree, and every student will remember their graduation day.”&nbsp;

The letter went on to explain our celebratory plans. Each student will receive a regalia kit containing a gown, a hood (for graduate students, mortarboard, tassel, commencement program and diploma in an official Fort Hays State University diploma case. Our hope is that our graduates will use this kit to celebrate their achievements with the family and friends who have helped them throughout their academic careers. The university will also build social media events to supplement the kit and honor our students. Though not ideal – heartfelt.&nbsp;

I am so proud of our students. And yet that lack of celebration not only creates a void for them but for me as well. So, I did what I love to do: checked-in with some of our students.&nbsp;

Deja Brewer, Lenexa, is a student employee in the Geosciences Department and the president of the Black Student Union. Deja majored in general studies with a concentration in elementary education. She loves photography and baking. Next fall she plans on attending culinary school to become a chef. Deja and I have become very close over the years – ever since she came to visit me to complain about my decision not to cancel classes one wintry day. I truly miss seeing her on campus. Regarding commencement plans, Deja said: “Due to the postponed graduation for seniors, my family will be putting on a ceremony at home in my grandpa's backyard for me. My family is my biggest supporter, and I am the first to graduate from college, so this is a big accomplishment for my family and me.”

Nia Vasquez-Ward, Colorado Springs, Colo., is the youngest of three children and the only girl. She is also the first to go to college in her family. She earned a degree in criminal justice with a minor in psychology. Her dream is to become a probation officer. Nia has an amazing smile, and I bet her friendliness and graciousness will be welcomed by those with whom she will work. According to Nia, “Once my commencement kit comes in, my family has already planned a photoshoot with me in my cap and gown. This is exciting because I was going to have to do photos on my own in Hays, but now I can have my family in the photos, which will allow me to keep hold of special memories. I am still going to decorate my cap and save it for the new commencement date. Once this all passes, we will celebrate with a party.”&nbsp;

Becky Windholz, WaKeeney, put college on hold to pursue other opportunities after graduating high school, then began her FHSU studies in the summer of 2013. On Sept. 13 of that year, her son lost his father in a tragic vehicle accident. As much as she did not want to put college on hold again, she knew her son, who was only 9 years old at that time, needed his mother, so she stepped out for another four years. This spring, Becky completes an elementary education degree with a minor in special education. She is looking forward to a very impactful career at Trego County USD 208 as a middle school special education teacher. Becky’s thoughts on commencement: “With the unprecedented times in our lives, I do not know when I will be walking across the stage to get my diploma. However, I do plan to take my cap and gown from my commencement kit and have a fun photoshoot with my family to celebrate this life-long goal of mine. It wouldn’t have been possible without their support, so we will celebrate this accomplishment together, as a family. Thank you, Fort Hays. You will always have a spot in my heart!”

Hearing the resiliency and pride through the voices of our students reaffirms for me the power of a Fort Hays State University education. For it is indeed a special privilege, one to be cherished. I truly hope that the commencement weekend left students feeling not the sadness of a missed ceremony, but the pride and the love we, the faculty and staff, feel for them. We look forward to their future successes and strong connections to the Fort.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>This past weekend should have been our commencement ceremonies. During the weekend I took the opportunity to pause and reflect – to silently express my gratitude for the students who choose to make FHSU their alma mater and for the faculty who ensured our graduates were absolutely prepared for their next adventure.I also thought about the letter I sent to our graduates earlier this year, which read in part: “Dear Students – I consider the commencement ceremonies we host each year to be among the most important and cherished traditions of this university. Commencement is the celebration of a life-changing and singular achievement – one that has been years and even decades in the making. Every student will tell a different story about the journey to their degree, and every student will remember their graduation day.”&nbsp;The letter went on to explain our celebratory plans. Each student will receive a regalia kit containing a gown, a hood (for graduate students, mortarboard, tassel, commencement program and diploma in an official Fort Hays State University diploma case. Our hope is that our graduates will use this kit to celebrate their achievements with the family and friends who have helped them throughout their academic careers. The university will also build social media events to supplement the kit and honor our students. Though not ideal – heartfelt.&nbsp;I am so proud of our students. And yet that lack of celebration not only creates a void for them but for me as well. So, I did what I love to do: checked-in with some of our students.&nbsp;Deja Brewer, Lenexa, is a student employee in the Geosciences Department and the president of the Black Student Union. Deja majored in general studies with a concentration in elementary education. She loves photography and baking. Next fall she plans on attending culinary school to become a chef. Deja and I have become very close over the years – ever since she came to visit me to complain about my decision not to cancel classes one wintry day. I truly miss seeing her on campus. Regarding commencement plans, Deja said: “Due to the postponed graduation for seniors, my family will be putting on a ceremony at home in my grandpa's backyard for me. My family is my biggest supporter, and I am the first to graduate from college, so this is a big accomplishment for my family and me.”Nia Vasquez-Ward, Colorado Springs, Colo., is the youngest of three children and the only girl. She is also the first to go to college in her family. She earned a degree in criminal justice with a minor in psychology. Her dream is to become a probation officer. Nia has an amazing smile, and I bet her friendliness and graciousness will be welcomed by those with whom she will work. According to Nia, “Once my commencement kit comes in, my family has already planned a photoshoot with me in my cap and gown. This is exciting because I was going to have to do photos on my own in Hays, but now I can have my family in the photos, which will allow me to keep hold of special memories. I am still going to decorate my cap and save it for the new commencement date. Once this all passes, we will celebrate with a party.”&nbsp;Becky Windholz, WaKeeney, put college on hold to pursue other opportunities after graduating high school, then began her FHSU studies in the summer of 2013. On Sept. 13 of that year, her son lost his father in a tragic vehicle accident. As much as she did not want to put college on hold again, she knew her son, who was only 9 years old at that time, needed his mother, so she stepped out for another four years. This spring, Becky completes an elementary education degree with a minor in special education. She is looking forward to a very impactful career at Trego County USD 208 as a middle school special education teacher. Becky’s thoughts on commencement: “With the unprecedented times in our lives, I do not know when I will be walking across the stage to get my diploma. However, I do plan to take my cap and gown from my commencement kit and have a fun photoshoot with my family to celebrate this life-long goal of mine. It wouldn’t have been possible without their support, so we will celebrate this accomplishment together, as a family. Thank you, Fort Hays. You will always have a spot in my heart!”Hearing the resiliency and pride through the voices of our students reaffirms for me the power of a Fort Hays State University education. For it is indeed a special privilege, one to be cherished. I truly hope that the commencement weekend left students feeling not the sadness of a missed ceremony, but the pride and the love we, the faculty and staff, feel for them. We look forward to their future successes and strong connections to the Fort.Congratulations graduates!

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