By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT, Hays Post

Citing multiple policy violations, the Ellis County Commission
suspended the use of the treasurer’s purchasing card this week, a move she says
is politically motivated.

At Monday’s commission meeting, the commission suspended
Treasurer Lisa Schlegel’s use of a county-issued purchasing card for 30 days.
During the meeting, Commission Chair Butch Schlyer said Schlegel has not been
presenting proper information on her use of the purchase card.

“There have been several attempts by human resources to get
the required documentation, and the treasurer has not been willing at all to
cooperate with those inquiries,” he said.

According to the Ellis County purchasing card policy, an
employee will have their card suspended for 30 days after violating the policy
two times.

Interim County Administrator Darin Myers said the first violation
of the policy by the treasurer was in late 2018. He said the second offense
stems from 11 different purchases from May to December of last year.

According to documents provided by Myers, the purchases range
from $5.14 for coffee at Breathe Coffee House to $53 at Gella’s Diner.

The violations of county policy, according to Myers, include
spending too much for meals or purchasing meals at conferences where the meals
are part of the conference fee, overspending on items purchased for employee
recognition, and not providing a reason for a lunch or dinner meeting or who
was present at the meeting.

Myers said the county discourages the use of the purchasing card
for those type of meetings at dining establishments in Ellis County. But if they are used, county employees are required to to document who the meeting was with.

He said that final violation — not providing the necessary
information and the treasurer’s unwillingness to provide the information — is the
reason that the issue was brought before the commission.

In an email obtained by Hays Post, Schlegel said in response
to requests for information by Human Resource Generalist Janet Schmidt, it was “not any of your business who I have meetings
with.”

Schlegel also told her in another email, “I don’t want
to tell you who I have meetings with. I also don’t plan to do that in the
future.”

Myers said it was those responses and her refusal to meet
with himself and Schlyer to discuss issue that resulted in the second violation
and the 30-day purchase card suspension.

In a written response to Hays Post and a sit-down interview
this week, Schlegel said she has not abused the purchasing card policy and claimed this is an effort by Commissioner Dean Haselhorst and others to make her look
bad in public.

“People that don’t like me and are threatened by me are
trying to damage my name to manipulate the public’s perception of me,” she said, “and to damage my chances of running for re-election.”

She added that she filed for re-election Wednesday.

“If you think this is going to stop me or discourage me, you
are wrong,” Schlegel added.

Schlegel said the issue stems from her <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2017/11/21/ellis-co-treasurer-tells-commission-taxes-will-be-late-doesnt-take-questions-on-the-issue/">criticism </a>of the
Ellis County Clerk’s office and Clerk Donna Maskus.

Schlegel, who was elected in 2016 and began serving in the
position in 2017, has been a staunch critic of Maskus and her department’s
handling of the county’s tax statements. Schlegel raised the issue in a
scathing <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/10/15/letter-treasurer-responds-to-ellis-co-commissioners/">letter to the editor</a> where she claimed she was <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/10/12/treasurer-claims-recent-criticism-is-politically-motivated/">bullied </a>by other
elected officials.

The clerk’s office collects levies and values from not only
Ellis County but surrounding counties and, after Ellis County verifies the information,
it turns the tax roll over to the treasury, which finalizes the amounts, prints
and sends them to taxpayers.

State statute requires the clerk to turn over the
information to the treasury by Nov. 1. Since 2016, they have turned the tax
rolls over the treasurer’s office between seven and 15 days later each year. That
deadline is often missed because Maskus said the county is forced to wait on other
counties.

Schlegel said when she first raised the issue in 2018 she
met with Haselhorst and then-Commissioner Barb Wasinger who told her not to
talk badly about the clerk and not raise those issues.

Haselhorst said of the criticism levied against him this
week, “I don’t have nothing against her. I really don’t. I’m not out to get
her.”

As for the 2018 meeting, Haselhorst said they might have told Schlegel
not to talk bad about the clerk’s office but only because he believes department
heads and elected official should work together “instead of throwing it out in
the news media.”

He added he thinks that Schlegel and her staff have done a
good job running the treasury.

“She does a fine job managing $22 million for Ellis County,”
Haselhorst said. “She’s made us a lot of money, and I would never ever take that
away from her, ever.”

Haselhorst attributed some of the friction to Schlegel’s
eagerness, as a newly elected official, to make changes.

“I can tell you as new commission I was gung-ho like her,”
Haselhorst said. “I think she was in the same way.” 

“In her defense, she came, she could see areas that needed
fixed (and) she could see areas she wanted to change,” Haselhorst said.

Haselhorst and Myers maintain that while they understand and
agree that as an elected official Schlegel is in charge of her office, it’s
up to the commission to provide oversight and provide transparency.

“If you fail to provide that documentation, the assumption of
misuse of taxpayer funds is out there,” Myers said.

&nbsp;Schlegel said as an
elected official she is on the same level as the county commissioners and only
answers to the voters.

“When you start trying to manipulate the public’s perception
of me by saying I’m abusing the purchasing card all over Hays, that is a direct
political attack and that is slander. I’m looking into it,” Schlegel said. “I
am an asset to this county, I am an asset to you as a citizen. I’ve rocked this
treasury.”

Schlegel said she has filed a harassment complaint against a
fellow Ellis County employee after an alleged incident but would not provide
any details.

“Since the tax newsletter in November, this has amped up
across the entire county. Department heads have shown harassing behavior to me,”
Schlegel said.

She said that complaint and a second one against a
commissioner have not been recognized.

Myers said he has received Schlegel’s complaint about an
employee but said he could not provide any details because it’s a personnel issue.
He said they have not received a complaint involving a commissioner.

Schlegel and Haselhorst are both up for re-election in the
fall and confirmed this week to Hays Post they have already filed for
re-election. County Clerk Donna Maskus is set to retire at the end of her term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584719419709.png" alt="Ellis County Treasurer Lisa Schlegel" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Treasurer Lisa Schlegel</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT, Hays PostCiting multiple policy violations, the Ellis County Commission
suspended the use of the treasurer’s purchasing card this week, a move she says
is politically motivated.At Monday’s commission meeting, the commission suspended
Treasurer Lisa Schlegel’s use of a county-issued purchasing card for 30 days.
During the meeting, Commission Chair Butch Schlyer said Schlegel has not been
presenting proper information on her use of the purchase card.“There have been several attempts by human resources to get
the required documentation, and the treasurer has not been willing at all to
cooperate with those inquiries,” he said.According to the Ellis County purchasing card policy, an
employee will have their card suspended for 30 days after violating the policy
two times.Interim County Administrator Darin Myers said the first violation
of the policy by the treasurer was in late 2018. He said the second offense
stems from 11 different purchases from May to December of last year.According to documents provided by Myers, the purchases range
from $5.14 for coffee at Breathe Coffee House to $53 at Gella’s Diner.The violations of county policy, according to Myers, include
spending too much for meals or purchasing meals at conferences where the meals
are part of the conference fee, overspending on items purchased for employee
recognition, and not providing a reason for a lunch or dinner meeting or who
was present at the meeting.Myers said the county discourages the use of the purchasing card
for those type of meetings at dining establishments in Ellis County. But if they are used, county employees are required to to document who the meeting was with.He said that final violation — not providing the necessary
information and the treasurer’s unwillingness to provide the information — is the
reason that the issue was brought before the commission.In an email obtained by Hays Post, Schlegel said in response
to requests for information by Human Resource Generalist Janet Schmidt, it was “not any of your business who I have meetings
with.”Schlegel also told her in another email, “I don’t want
to tell you who I have meetings with. I also don’t plan to do that in the
future.”Myers said it was those responses and her refusal to meet
with himself and Schlyer to discuss issue that resulted in the second violation
and the 30-day purchase card suspension.In a written response to Hays Post and a sit-down interview
this week, Schlegel said she has not abused the purchasing card policy and claimed this is an effort by Commissioner Dean Haselhorst and others to make her look
bad in public.“People that don’t like me and are threatened by me are
trying to damage my name to manipulate the public’s perception of me,” she said, “and to damage my chances of running for re-election.”She added that she filed for re-election Wednesday.“If you think this is going to stop me or discourage me, you
are wrong,” Schlegel added.Schlegel said the issue stems from her <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2017/11/21/ellis-co-treasurer-tells-commission-taxes-will-be-late-doesnt-take-questions-on-the-issue/">criticism </a>of the
Ellis County Clerk’s office and Clerk Donna Maskus. Schlegel, who was elected in 2016 and began serving in the
position in 2017, has been a staunch critic of Maskus and her department’s
handling of the county’s tax statements. Schlegel raised the issue in a
scathing <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/10/15/letter-treasurer-responds-to-ellis-co-commissioners/">letter to the editor</a> where she claimed she was <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/10/12/treasurer-claims-recent-criticism-is-politically-motivated/">bullied </a>by other
elected officials.The clerk’s office collects levies and values from not only
Ellis County but surrounding counties and, after Ellis County verifies the information,
it turns the tax roll over to the treasury, which finalizes the amounts, prints
and sends them to taxpayers.State statute requires the clerk to turn over the
information to the treasury by Nov. 1. Since 2016, they have turned the tax
rolls over the treasurer’s office between seven and 15 days later each year. That
deadline is often missed because Maskus said the county is forced to wait on other
counties.Schlegel said when she first raised the issue in 2018 she
met with Haselhorst and then-Commissioner Barb Wasinger who told her not to
talk badly about the clerk and not raise those issues.Haselhorst said of the criticism levied against him this
week, “I don’t have nothing against her. I really don’t. I’m not out to get
her.”As for the 2018 meeting, Haselhorst said they might have told Schlegel
not to talk bad about the clerk’s office but only because he believes department
heads and elected official should work together “instead of throwing it out in
the news media.”He added he thinks that Schlegel and her staff have done a
good job running the treasury.“She does a fine job managing $22 million for Ellis County,”
Haselhorst said. “She’s made us a lot of money, and I would never ever take that
away from her, ever.”Haselhorst attributed some of the friction to Schlegel’s
eagerness, as a newly elected official, to make changes.“I can tell you as new commission I was gung-ho like her,”
Haselhorst said. “I think she was in the same way.” “In her defense, she came, she could see areas that needed
fixed (and) she could see areas she wanted to change,” Haselhorst said.Haselhorst and Myers maintain that while they understand and
agree that as an elected official Schlegel is in charge of her office, it’s
up to the commission to provide oversight and provide transparency.“If you fail to provide that documentation, the assumption of
misuse of taxpayer funds is out there,” Myers said.&nbsp;Schlegel said as an
elected official she is on the same level as the county commissioners and only
answers to the voters.“When you start trying to manipulate the public’s perception
of me by saying I’m abusing the purchasing card all over Hays, that is a direct
political attack and that is slander. I’m looking into it,” Schlegel said. “I
am an asset to this county, I am an asset to you as a citizen. I’ve rocked this
treasury.”Schlegel said she has filed a harassment complaint against a
fellow Ellis County employee after an alleged incident but would not provide
any details.“Since the tax newsletter in November, this has amped up
across the entire county. Department heads have shown harassing behavior to me,”
Schlegel said.She said that complaint and a second one against a
commissioner have not been recognized.Myers said he has received Schlegel’s complaint about an
employee but said he could not provide any details because it’s a personnel issue.
He said they have not received a complaint involving a commissioner.Schlegel and Haselhorst are both up for re-election in the
fall and confirmed this week to Hays Post they have already filed for
re-election. County Clerk Donna Maskus is set to retire at the end of her term.

Commission, treasurer at odds over use of Ellis Co. credit card

Classes at Fort Hays State University will transition to online delivery only effective Monday, March 30, and employees will transition to remote
 operations with limited staff on-campus. The time frame is indefinite.

FHSU President Tisa Mason notified the campus – faculty, staff and students – by email March 12 of the initial move to online class
 instruction. The announcement for faculty and staff to transition to remote operations was made Wednesday afternoon. The decision came after consultation with the university’s Critical Incident Policy Group and campus leaders in light of new guidance from
 the Kansas Board of Regents and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

“As the University’s policy, planning, and action moves forward,” she said, “we should continue to be grounded in our fundamental goal of safeguarding
 the health of our faculty, staff, and students, and we should continue to be guided by the recommendations provided by our public health officials.”

The university will also, she said, “strive to ensure completion and success for students.”

Fort Hays State, with its deep history and strength in online education, is uniquely able to meet the challenge of preparing on short notice a semester’s
 courses for online delivery. The FHSU is one of only a handful of institutions to earn certification from the United States Distance Learning Association.

That certification, which is based on a rigorous, 120-point quality review at all levels of distance education, recognizes FHSU’s commitment to
 following best industry practices for online education. For more than a decade, the majority of the university’s enrollment has been online.

President Mason’s email addressed key points of the nature of the challenge, including:


•&nbsp; All in-person classes and events will transition to online, and classes that are already online will continue as scheduled. Adaptations for labs, clinicals and practicums will be addressed in
 their respective departments.


•&nbsp; Refunds for room and board will be available.



•&nbsp; Students who are able to do so are asked to remain at home after the spring break.


•&nbsp; The university will move to limited operations and services – residence hall accommodations and food services – will be available for students who are unable to return home.


•&nbsp; The Kelly Center and Student Health will transition to providing service online.



•&nbsp; The NCAA and MIAA has canceled all spring sports.


•&nbsp; Plans to transition university-sponsored events, major or minor, to online platforms when possible

Educational requirements that demand in-person attendance – clinicals, labs and practicums – are being addressed by their respective departments.
 The department of music will be conducting lessons via zoom, teacher education students are sharing online video story times to promote literacy, and many health care and science labs are being simulated online so that students can stay on track from degree
 completion. 

While faculty and staff are working remotely, many University events will transition to online experiences including the John Heinrich’s Scholarly
 and Creative Activities Day, the Olliff Family Educational Symposium, and department of art and design 2020 Student Honors Exhibition.


“We will continue to deliver on the ethic of care that makes Fort Hays State so unique,” said Mason. “We are forming university care teams that
 will be following up with all students traditional on-campus and online, to 
provide comfort and information, while directing students to any needed support services.”



President Mason said dealing with the coronavirus outbreak will have many “complications and disruptions.”

“I also know,” she said, “that we are up to the challenge, and uniquely positioned to leverage our online delivery expertise and experience to make
 this work.”

For campus updates regarding the move to online courses, the move to remote operations and student health advisories, please visit
<a href="http://fhsu.edu/covid-19-response" target="_blank">http://fhsu.edu/covid-19-response</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsClasses at Fort Hays State University will transition to online delivery only effective Monday, March 30, and employees will transition to remote
 operations with limited staff on-campus. The time frame is indefinite.FHSU President Tisa Mason notified the campus – faculty, staff and students – by email March 12 of the initial move to online class
 instruction. The announcement for faculty and staff to transition to remote operations was made Wednesday afternoon. The decision came after consultation with the university’s Critical Incident Policy Group and campus leaders in light of new guidance from
 the Kansas Board of Regents and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.“As the University’s policy, planning, and action moves forward,” she said, “we should continue to be grounded in our fundamental goal of safeguarding
 the health of our faculty, staff, and students, and we should continue to be guided by the recommendations provided by our public health officials.”The university will also, she said, “strive to ensure completion and success for students.”Fort Hays State, with its deep history and strength in online education, is uniquely able to meet the challenge of preparing on short notice a semester’s
 courses for online delivery. The FHSU is one of only a handful of institutions to earn certification from the United States Distance Learning Association.That certification, which is based on a rigorous, 120-point quality review at all levels of distance education, recognizes FHSU’s commitment to
 following best industry practices for online education. For more than a decade, the majority of the university’s enrollment has been online.President Mason’s email addressed key points of the nature of the challenge, including:
•&nbsp; All in-person classes and events will transition to online, and classes that are already online will continue as scheduled. Adaptations for labs, clinicals and practicums will be addressed in
 their respective departments.
•&nbsp; Refunds for room and board will be available.

•&nbsp; Students who are able to do so are asked to remain at home after the spring break.
•&nbsp; The university will move to limited operations and services – residence hall accommodations and food services – will be available for students who are unable to return home.
•&nbsp; The Kelly Center and Student Health will transition to providing service online.

•&nbsp; The NCAA and MIAA has canceled all spring sports.
•&nbsp; Plans to transition university-sponsored events, major or minor, to online platforms when possibleEducational requirements that demand in-person attendance – clinicals, labs and practicums – are being addressed by their respective departments.
 The department of music will be conducting lessons via zoom, teacher education students are sharing online video story times to promote literacy, and many health care and science labs are being simulated online so that students can stay on track from degree
 completion. While faculty and staff are working remotely, many University events will transition to online experiences including the John Heinrich’s Scholarly
 and Creative Activities Day, the Olliff Family Educational Symposium, and department of art and design 2020 Student Honors Exhibition.
“We will continue to deliver on the ethic of care that makes Fort Hays State so unique,” said Mason. “We are forming university care teams that
 will be following up with all students traditional on-campus and online, to 
provide comfort and information, while directing students to any needed support services.”

President Mason said dealing with the coronavirus outbreak will have many “complications and disruptions.”“I also know,” she said, “that we are up to the challenge, and uniquely positioned to leverage our online delivery expertise and experience to make
 this work.”For campus updates regarding the move to online courses, the move to remote operations and student health advisories, please visit
<a href="http://fhsu.edu/covid-19-response" target="_blank">http://fhsu.edu/covid-19-response</a>.

FHSU staff moving to remote operations in reaction to virus 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584743237590.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

BY RON WILSON, Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Let’s hop on a transatlantic flight to London. A woman is placing a spinning wheel on the floor in front of her seat and will spin yarn while crossing the Atlantic Ocean. The spinning wheel is a handmade, portable spinning wheel which was built by a pair of craftsmen in rural Kansas. These beautiful spinning wheels are being sold from coast to coast and beyond.

Mark and Julie Lambert are the founders and owners of Athena Spinning, the creators of this beautiful spinning wheel. “Five years ago, I didn’t know spinning wheels existed outside of fairy tales,” Julie said. She and her husband Mark were working as insurance adjusters and living in south Texas. Their job required them to travel on short notice to some disaster scene and then stay for an extended period.

“I saw a woman spinning with a wheel and I was intrigued,” Julie said, having crocheted since she was nine. She and Mark also liked to build their own furniture. He’s an engineer. When Julie said she wanted a spinning wheel, Mark said he would make her one.

The plans went through many revisions. “I thought I was done,” Mark said. Julie wanted one that was just perfect: Attractive, compact, and easy to use and assemble when traveling. When told that his creation looked like a work of art, Mark said with a smile, “That’s her fault. She’s the artist.”

After building 17 models to meet Julie’s requirements for the perfect wheel, they had it.&nbsp;&nbsp;A friend said that the wheels were so beautiful that they could sell them. Mark and Julie decided to give it a try. Meanwhile, they wanted to move to a location that was situated somewhere between grandkids in Wyoming and Chicago, but not too far north. They settled in Chanute, Kansas.

Their final spinning wheel design has a wheel held by an arm with two fingerholes in the top that resemble the eyes of an owl. As the Lamberts thought about a name for their business, they thought about the owl. Through research, they found that the Greek goddess Athena is a symbol of wisdom, defense of the home, and fiber arts. Athena is often depicted with an owl on her shoulder for wisdom, a shield for defense, and a drop spindle which is the primitive tool used to spin yarn. The connection was so strong they named their business Athena Spinning.

The Lamberts signed up for a trade show to try selling their travel wheels. They brought six wheels in hopes they might sell one or two. By the end of the show, all six were sold.

Today, Mark and Julie Lambert travel the country, selling the Athena travel spinning wheel at fiber festivals from coast to coast. “These wheels are ideal for travelers,” Julie said. The wheel weighs 10 pounds and breaks down into three pieces that nest together and easily fit in a tote bag or overhead luggage. The wheels are eye-catching and attractive, handcrafted from maple and walnut.

Julie loved spinning, but she also needed a break from demonstrating it during festivals. She insisted that Mark learn to spin also. He protested, claiming that “It would not give me joy,” but he finally learned to spin. He now admits, “Spinning is one of the most relaxing things I’ve ever done.”

The Lamberts travel in their RV and take their spinning wheels to shows. “My happy place is to be spinning at my wheel between shows, next to a campfire by a lake at sunset,” Julie said. “Everything about this has been rewarding,” she said, especially the people they’ve met.

One woman in New York City spins during her commute on the subway. The wheels have sold nationwide and as far away as Australia, Canada and Germany.

It’s a remarkable record for a business based in the rural community of Chanute, population 9,119 people. Now, that’s rural.

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.athenaspinning.com/">www.athenaspinning.com</a>.

We commend Mark and Julie Lambert of Athena Spinning for making a difference with their creativity, craftsmanship and skills. This story deserves a lot of positive spin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584537849917.png" alt="Screen Shot 2020-03-18 at 8.23.47 AM.png" />
 <figcaption>Screen Shot 2020-03-18 at 8.23.47 AM.png</figcaption>
 </figure>BY RON WILSON, Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentLet’s hop on a transatlantic flight to London. A woman is placing a spinning wheel on the floor in front of her seat and will spin yarn while crossing the Atlantic Ocean. The spinning wheel is a handmade, portable spinning wheel which was built by a pair of craftsmen in rural Kansas. These beautiful spinning wheels are being sold from coast to coast and beyond.Mark and Julie Lambert are the founders and owners of Athena Spinning, the creators of this beautiful spinning wheel. “Five years ago, I didn’t know spinning wheels existed outside of fairy tales,” Julie said. She and her husband Mark were working as insurance adjusters and living in south Texas. Their job required them to travel on short notice to some disaster scene and then stay for an extended period.“I saw a woman spinning with a wheel and I was intrigued,” Julie said, having crocheted since she was nine. She and Mark also liked to build their own furniture. He’s an engineer. When Julie said she wanted a spinning wheel, Mark said he would make her one.The plans went through many revisions. “I thought I was done,” Mark said. Julie wanted one that was just perfect: Attractive, compact, and easy to use and assemble when traveling. When told that his creation looked like a work of art, Mark said with a smile, “That’s her fault. She’s the artist.”After building 17 models to meet Julie’s requirements for the perfect wheel, they had it.&nbsp;&nbsp;A friend said that the wheels were so beautiful that they could sell them. Mark and Julie decided to give it a try. Meanwhile, they wanted to move to a location that was situated somewhere between grandkids in Wyoming and Chicago, but not too far north. They settled in Chanute, Kansas.Their final spinning wheel design has a wheel held by an arm with two fingerholes in the top that resemble the eyes of an owl. As the Lamberts thought about a name for their business, they thought about the owl. Through research, they found that the Greek goddess Athena is a symbol of wisdom, defense of the home, and fiber arts. Athena is often depicted with an owl on her shoulder for wisdom, a shield for defense, and a drop spindle which is the primitive tool used to spin yarn. The connection was so strong they named their business Athena Spinning.The Lamberts signed up for a trade show to try selling their travel wheels. They brought six wheels in hopes they might sell one or two. By the end of the show, all six were sold.Today, Mark and Julie Lambert travel the country, selling the Athena travel spinning wheel at fiber festivals from coast to coast. “These wheels are ideal for travelers,” Julie said. The wheel weighs 10 pounds and breaks down into three pieces that nest together and easily fit in a tote bag or overhead luggage. The wheels are eye-catching and attractive, handcrafted from maple and walnut.Julie loved spinning, but she also needed a break from demonstrating it during festivals. She insisted that Mark learn to spin also. He protested, claiming that “It would not give me joy,” but he finally learned to spin. He now admits, “Spinning is one of the most relaxing things I’ve ever done.”The Lamberts travel in their RV and take their spinning wheels to shows. “My happy place is to be spinning at my wheel between shows, next to a campfire by a lake at sunset,” Julie said. “Everything about this has been rewarding,” she said, especially the people they’ve met.One woman in New York City spins during her commute on the subway. The wheels have sold nationwide and as far away as Australia, Canada and Germany.It’s a remarkable record for a business based in the rural community of Chanute, population 9,119 people. Now, that’s rural.For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.athenaspinning.com/">www.athenaspinning.com</a>.We commend Mark and Julie Lambert of Athena Spinning for making a difference with their creativity, craftsmanship and skills. This story deserves a lot of positive spin.

Now That’s Rural: Mark and Julie Lambert, Athena Spinning

The rise of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a global, national and local concern. We want to assure our patients and the community that Hays Med, part of The University of Kansas Health System is working closely with local, state and federal health officials to prepare.&nbsp; Our top priority is keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe and as a result, we will be implementing the following changes:

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

*Visitors are limited to 1 person per day from 6:00 am – 8:30 pm.&nbsp; No visitors will be allowed to enter after 8:30 pm.

*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.&nbsp;

* We have implemented temperature screenings upon entry into our facilities. 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.&nbsp; Visitors and staff with a temperature will not be allowed in the facility.

*Valet parking services have changed.&nbsp; 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584140055070.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedThe rise of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a global, national and local concern. We want to assure our patients and the community that Hays Med, part of The University of Kansas Health System is working closely with local, state and federal health officials to prepare.&nbsp; Our top priority is keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe and as a result, we will be implementing the following changes:Effective 6 a.m. Saturday:&nbsp;*Patients and visitors must use Entrance B, which is located at the Miller Pavilion from 6:00 am - 8:30 pm for hospital access.&nbsp; 
*Patients must use the Emergency Entrance from 8:30 pm - 6:00 am*Visitors are limited to 1 person per day from 6:00 am – 8:30 pm.&nbsp; No visitors will be allowed to enter after 8:30 pm.*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.&nbsp;* We have implemented temperature screenings upon entry into our facilities. 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.&nbsp; Visitors and staff with a temperature will not be allowed in the facility.*Valet parking services have changed.&nbsp; 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.

HaysMed enhances visitor restrictions beginning Saturday

PHILLIPSBURG — In an effort to assist residents of Phillips County dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, the Phillips County Sheriff's Office announced Friday it will begin a community assistance program.

The program was launched to help families or individuals who are quarantined to their homes, the elderly or other high-risk individuals, the announcement said.

"We will deliver supplies, groceries or medications as needed," the announcement said.&nbsp;

The program will only be available within the county.

To take advantage of the assistance, purchases and payments must be arranged with the store or vendor, as deputies will not be authorized to accept payment.

"Hopefully, this will provide some relief for those having to stay at home, in this time of uncertainty," the sheriff's office said.

To reach the department for assistance, call 785-543-6885.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostPHILLIPSBURG — In an effort to assist residents of Phillips County dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, the Phillips County Sheriff's Office announced Friday it will begin a community assistance program.The program was launched to help families or individuals who are quarantined to their homes, the elderly or other high-risk individuals, the announcement said."We will deliver supplies, groceries or medications as needed," the announcement said.&nbsp;The program will only be available within the county.To take advantage of the assistance, purchases and payments must be arranged with the store or vendor, as deputies will not be authorized to accept payment."Hopefully, this will provide some relief for those having to stay at home, in this time of uncertainty," the sheriff's office said.To reach the department for assistance, call 785-543-6885.

Phillips Co. Sheriff's Office launches community assistance program

Hays city commissioners met Thursday night for their bi-monthly work session.&nbsp;

It has not been broadcast live on local cable TV as the regular meetings are on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.

That changed yesterday in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

The city has closed its offices to the public and notified the news media it would not be allowed to be in the commission chambers during the March 19 work session or March 26 regular meeting.

The number of people in the room is currently limited to 10, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.

"In addition to the five commissioners and four city staff members (City Manager Toby Dougherty, City Attorney John Bird, Finance Director Kim Rupp and Bielser) we can only accommodate one more individual," Bielser wrote in an email to Hays Post&nbsp;and the Hays Daily News.

Meetings of local governing boards are subject to the Open Meetings Act; broadcasting the meeting live maintains compliance with the Open Meetings Act.

Nex-Tech in Hays operates the equipment in the commission chamber during live meetings, requiring that employee to be the 10th person in the room.

The meetings had already started&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e54046f65b5d314384973a3">streaming live online</a> in late February.

During last night's work session, commissioners talked about changing where&nbsp;it publishes its legal notices.

For years, the Hays Daily News has been the city’s official
publication site. 

Recent downsizing of the local staff has caused problems,&nbsp; Bielser told the commissioners, including incorrect changes to one notice and increasing the size of
another notice without approval. He noted those errors had been made by news staff in Salina and Topeka.

City staff is recommending the commission approve a charter
ordinance designating the city website as the official city news outlet.

“A lot of people
either don’t get their newspaper on a certain day or it doesn’t show up," Mellick said. "Being online they can check our legal notices any time and from any place.”

Publishing legal
notices on the city’s own website would save about $9,400 a year.

* Heard a resolution advancing the statutory process for the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2a5a257d7daa72b30eba32">Heart of America RHID </a>(Rural Housing Incentive District Financing). The Ellis County investment consortium plans to develop the street and infrastructure for development of 75 residential lots as affordable housing located at the northeast corner of 22nd St.and Wheatland Ave. A representative of the city's bond counsel, Gilmore &amp; Bell, joined the meeting by phone to review how RHIDs work. The RHID portion of Hays' economic development incentives policy has never been used.

* Heard resolutions calling for public hearings on the D &amp; J Land Development TIF (Tax Increment Financing) and CID (Community Improvement District) requests for a travel plaza to be built north of the Interstate-70 Exit 157. The city commission has taken previous actions as part of the TIF process. Finance Director Kim Rupp noted the Planning Commission on Monday unanimously agreed the travel plaza project is consistent with the intent of the Hays Comprehensive Plan. This would be the first action regarding the CID request.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div>By BECKY KISER Hays Post</div>Hays city commissioners met Thursday night for their bi-monthly work session.&nbsp;It has not been broadcast live on local cable TV as the regular meetings are on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.That changed yesterday in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.The city has closed its offices to the public and notified the news media it would not be allowed to be in the commission chambers during the March 19 work session or March 26 regular meeting.The number of people in the room is currently limited to 10, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager. "In addition to the five commissioners and four city staff members (City Manager Toby Dougherty, City Attorney John Bird, Finance Director Kim Rupp and Bielser) we can only accommodate one more individual," Bielser wrote in an email to Hays Post&nbsp;and the Hays Daily News.Meetings of local governing boards are subject to the Open Meetings Act; broadcasting the meeting live maintains compliance with the Open Meetings Act.Nex-Tech in Hays operates the equipment in the commission chamber during live meetings, requiring that employee to be the 10th person in the room.The meetings had already started&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e54046f65b5d314384973a3">streaming live online</a> in late February.During last night's work session, commissioners talked about changing where&nbsp;it publishes its legal notices.For years, the Hays Daily News has been the city’s official
publication site. Recent downsizing of the local staff has caused problems,&nbsp; Bielser told the commissioners, including incorrect changes to one notice and increasing the size of
another notice without approval. He noted those errors had been made by news staff in Salina and Topeka.City staff is recommending the commission approve a charter
ordinance designating the city website as the official city news outlet.Commissioner Ron Mellick likes the idea.“A lot of people
either don’t get their newspaper on a certain day or it doesn’t show up," Mellick said. "Being online they can check our legal notices any time and from any place.”Publishing legal
notices on the city’s own website would save about $9,400 a year.In other business, the commission:* Heard a resolution advancing the statutory process for the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2a5a257d7daa72b30eba32">Heart of America RHID </a>(Rural Housing Incentive District Financing). The Ellis County investment consortium plans to develop the street and infrastructure for development of 75 residential lots as affordable housing located at the northeast corner of 22nd St.and Wheatland Ave. A representative of the city's bond counsel, Gilmore &amp; Bell, joined the meeting by phone to review how RHIDs work. The RHID portion of Hays' economic development incentives policy has never been used.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584720709809.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>* Heard resolutions calling for public hearings on the D &amp; J Land Development TIF (Tax Increment Financing) and CID (Community Improvement District) requests for a travel plaza to be built north of the Interstate-70 Exit 157. The city commission has taken previous actions as part of the TIF process. Finance Director Kim Rupp noted the Planning Commission on Monday unanimously agreed the travel plaza project is consistent with the intent of the Hays Comprehensive Plan. This would be the first action regarding the CID request.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574443442177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

First city work session with no public allowed; meeting broadcast and livestreamed 

ELLIS — Ellis City Clerk Amy Burton was selected as the recipient of the 2020 Mildred Vance City Clerk/Finance Officer of the Year award.

Burton was announced as the recipient of the prestigious statewide award was at the 70th annual Kansas City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association&nbsp; Conference in Manhattan on Thursday, March 12.

"Amy's service to our city is exceptional," said Ellis Mayor David McDaniel in a press release. "Her leadership skills create high expectations which are recognized and appreciated by the governing body and citizens of Ellis. Her success in the development, implementation and coordination of tasks has assured improved efficiencies in government."

Burton has worked for the city of Ellis since 2012.

After earning a bachelor's in business administration from Fort Hays State University, Burton became a&nbsp;Certified Public Accountant and has earned the Certified Municipal Clerk designation, according to the release.

Burton has served in serval roles in the&nbsp;City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association, including serving on the Board of Directors from 2015-2016, Treasurer from 2015-2016, Secretary from 2016-2017, Vice President from 2017-2018 and as President from 2018-2019.

She currently serves as chair of the CCMFOA Nominating Committee and is on the Education and Program Planning and Education Certifications committees.&nbsp;

"This award is presented each year to a City Clerk or Finance Officer who has made significant contributions to the State association, the profession and their city," the release said. "The award was named in honor of Mildred Vance, former auditor and City Clerk/ Municipal Finance Officer of Parsons, Kansas, who served her community from 1948 to 1988. Mildred was instrumental in developing and promoting professional education programs for city clerks and finance officers at the state and national levels and was one of the first 100 clerks to receive the Certified Municipal Clerk designation in 1972. Mildred was later accepted into the Academy for Advanced Education&nbsp; and served as a director of IIMC.

"She strongly believed that city clerks arid finance officers should contribute to their communities and she unselfishly gave of her time and talents in church, community and civic activities," the release said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584639883446.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — Ellis City Clerk Amy Burton was selected as the recipient of the 2020 Mildred Vance City Clerk/Finance Officer of the Year award.Burton was announced as the recipient of the prestigious statewide award was at the 70th annual Kansas City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association&nbsp; Conference in Manhattan on Thursday, March 12."Amy's service to our city is exceptional," said Ellis Mayor David McDaniel in a press release. "Her leadership skills create high expectations which are recognized and appreciated by the governing body and citizens of Ellis. Her success in the development, implementation and coordination of tasks has assured improved efficiencies in government."Burton has worked for the city of Ellis since 2012.After earning a bachelor's in business administration from Fort Hays State University, Burton became a&nbsp;Certified Public Accountant and has earned the Certified Municipal Clerk designation, according to the release.Burton has served in serval roles in the&nbsp;City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association, including serving on the Board of Directors from 2015-2016, Treasurer from 2015-2016, Secretary from 2016-2017, Vice President from 2017-2018 and as President from 2018-2019.She currently serves as chair of the CCMFOA Nominating Committee and is on the Education and Program Planning and Education Certifications committees.&nbsp;"This award is presented each year to a City Clerk or Finance Officer who has made significant contributions to the State association, the profession and their city," the release said. "The award was named in honor of Mildred Vance, former auditor and City Clerk/ Municipal Finance Officer of Parsons, Kansas, who served her community from 1948 to 1988. Mildred was instrumental in developing and promoting professional education programs for city clerks and finance officers at the state and national levels and was one of the first 100 clerks to receive the Certified Municipal Clerk designation in 1972. Mildred was later accepted into the Academy for Advanced Education&nbsp; and served as a director of IIMC."She strongly believed that city clerks arid finance officers should contribute to their communities and she unselfishly gave of her time and talents in church, community and civic activities," the release said.

Ellis city clerk receives prestigious state award

In an abundance of public caution, the City of Russell is taking several proactive steps to combat and limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic locally. 

Effective immediately, and until further notice, City of Russell facilities will be closed to the public. 

This closure includes all departments except for the Russell Municipal Airport, Public Transit Bus, public parks, and the municipal golf course, which will remain open until further notice. The clubhouse at the municipal golf course is limited to occupancy of no more than ten (10) people at one time. 

The public transit bus is limited to taking passengers to and from Russell Regional Hospital, doctor’s offices, grocery stores, and places of employment. 

These may be re-evaluated based on additional information and guidance from the Kansas Department Health and Environment or Russell County Health Department. 

The City of Russell will continue to provide essential services to the community.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584712572424.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CITY OF RUSSELLIn an abundance of public caution, the City of Russell is taking several proactive steps to combat and limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic locally. Effective immediately, and until further notice, City of Russell facilities will be closed to the public. This closure includes all departments except for the Russell Municipal Airport, Public Transit Bus, public parks, and the municipal golf course, which will remain open until further notice. The clubhouse at the municipal golf course is limited to occupancy of no more than ten (10) people at one time. The public transit bus is limited to taking passengers to and from Russell Regional Hospital, doctor’s offices, grocery stores, and places of employment. These may be re-evaluated based on additional information and guidance from the Kansas Department Health and Environment or Russell County Health Department. The City of Russell will continue to provide essential services to the community.&nbsp;

Most city of Russell facilities closed to public

Effective March 23, 2020, ACCESS Public Transportation in Hays will temporarily be changing their operating hours in response to a reduction in ridership as a result of COVID-19. 

ACCESS is taking precautions to keep everyone safe. 

We thank all of you for being so understanding and patient as we all work through this crisis.

To schedule a ride on ACCESS, call 785-628-1052.

Safe Ride will be operating at NORMAL hours Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 PM - 3 AM.

To schedule a ride on Safe Ride, call 785-621-2580 during these hours.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584536781273.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Effective March 23, 2020, ACCESS Public Transportation in Hays will temporarily be changing their operating hours in response to a reduction in ridership as a result of COVID-19. ACCESS is taking precautions to keep everyone safe. We thank all of you for being so understanding and patient as we all work through this crisis.New operating hours are as follows:Monday-Friday: 6 AM - 6 PMSaturday &amp; Sunday- 6 AM - 4 PMTo schedule a ride on ACCESS, call 785-628-1052.Safe Ride will be operating at NORMAL hours Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 PM - 3 AM.To schedule a ride on Safe Ride, call 785-621-2580 during these hours.NEWS RELEASE

ACCESS to reduce hours, Safe Ride operates normally

ELLIS – Effective Monday and until further notice, Ellis City Hall will be closed to the public.&nbsp;


At this time, city employees will still be available on premises during regular office hours and will be available by phone or email.&nbsp;


"We are asking citizens to please utilize the outside drop box, mail, or phone in utility payments," the city said in a news release. "We apologize for the inconvenience and hope to welcome you back into City Hall soon!"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576686365838.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of EllisELLIS – Effective Monday and until further notice, Ellis City Hall will be closed to the public.&nbsp;
At this time, city employees will still be available on premises during regular office hours and will be available by phone or email.&nbsp;
"We are asking citizens to please utilize the outside drop box, mail, or phone in utility payments," the city said in a news release. "We apologize for the inconvenience and hope to welcome you back into City Hall soon!"

Ellis City Hall to close to public

In the days and weeks ahead, U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., who is also a medical doctor said it will be up to communities to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

This is the time for us to put the lid on this pandemic, he said, by staying home if your&nbsp; are sick, limiting contact and washing your hands.

"This is our chance to put a lid on it," Marshall said.

He thought the infection would have already spread more in Kansas, but believes it will likely get worse before it gets better.

Stopping large groups of people from gathering, including massive disruptions to businesses and schools, are necessary to help stop the spread, Marshall said.

"I think we have to. ... If we leave our churches open, we are going to go there and our elders and senior citizens are going to get infected," he said.

Schools and nurseries also contribute to the spread as children often spread illness making the school closures important to mitigating the virus' impact.

"For the sake of protecting those at risk for this ... we need to do everything we can to contain this virus right now," Marshall said.

While communities are working on the front lines of stopping the outbreak, Marshall has supported federal measures to help protect citizens, including increased funding for health care stockpiles, development of vaccines and antivirals and tax credits for small businesses that give employees time off for illness.

"We are expanding food stamps, expanding WIC programs as well as food banks," he said. "We are doing what we can to help small Kansans get through these hard times."

He also praised the response from President Trump.

"He has done an incredible job showing leadership," Marshall said.&nbsp;"I think the president and the administration have done everything humanly possible to protect American lives."

The travel ban on China was the right call, he said, even though it was incredibly unpopular by the national news media, with some going as far as to call the president xenophobic.

"It was absolutely the right decision," Marshall said. "It saved thousands of lives, maybe tens of thousands of American lives, by slowing down the virus."

He said the administration's actions helped to make COVID-19 test kits more available as the president worked with the private sector to get test kits mobilized.

"Today, we have millions of test kits going out throughout the country," Marshall said, and private testing centers have been brought online through the administration's actions as well.

While test kits are now more readily available, he said the CDC's slow rollout was "disappointing."

But locally tests are available — with supply meeting demand.

"So far, everybody in Kansas that has needed a test kit and has met the criteria, has gotten it done," Marshall said.

Overall, he believes we are in a much better position this week over last to deal with the crisis, but there is a lot of uncertainty ahead.

"I'm afraid to say it's going to get worse before it gets better," Marshall said.

The next two weeks are likely to be the defining time of the outbreak, he said but "this will be around for two months at a minimum."

"The hope is it will peak out here, I'm going to say in four to six weeks," Marshall said. "The question is how tall is that peak going to be."

"These next four to five days will have a huge impact on what that number looks like," he said. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Every virus we prevent today is going to prevent dozens of infections in the next couple of weeks, which is going to save lives."

Preventing the spread of the virus will prevent critical situations in rural areas.

"If we can decrease the peak, there will be less people impacted and we won't over-exceed what hospital workers we have got," Marshall said. "I know everyone is worried about respirators and all of those type of things, but really in rural America the shortage is doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists."

Marshall hopes everyone will take the social distancing policies seriously and do their part to protect their community.

He is urging everyone to do what the president has asked. 

"If you are sick, stay home. If you are over the age of 60, or you have some type of underlying health condition, stay at home. Otherwise please don't meet in groups of more than 10 people at a time, try to keep 6 feet between you. Wash your hands. About every time you touch somebody else, you should be washing your hands afterwards and, if you are going to touch people, just touch your elbows — and really I think it is socially OK to not shake hands anymore until further notice."

While the situation is serious, and he supports social distancing and school and business closures, he said media has made the situation seem worse than it is.

"I'm so disappointed in the national media," he said.

Even though he talks to the CDC almost everyday, he said, when&nbsp;watching national TV news he is scared by the&nbsp; coverage.

"They make this seem so dire," Marshall said. "We have been through worse things than this in Kansas with all the winter snowstorms and droughts and floods. So many more people die from the seasonal flu every year than from this virus.

"We can choose to live in fear, or we can choose to live in faith," he said.

While speaking with doctors, nurses, politicians and citizens about why the response to this one is so different that others, he puts much of the blame on the outbreak being sensationalized by the national media.

However, he said this virus is more infectious that&nbsp; the seasonal flu and has a higher mortality rate for certain segments of the population.

"So it's not purely apples to apples when compared to the swine flu, or the seasonal flu, but its not exponentially worse," Marshall said. "I think we should put it all in perspective, but do everything we can to protect ourselves and err with an abundance of over-caution."

He pointed out more people will be killed in car accidents and suicides today than will die from this virus, and the seasonal flu will likely kill more people than COVID-19 this year.

While the full economic impact will likely not be known until much later, getting workers back into the workforce soon is more&nbsp;important than any legislation, he said, and will require everyone to do their part.

"The very best thing we can do for this economy right now is to keep American healthy and get us back to work as quickly as possible," Marshall said.

<div><iframe title="U.S. Representative Marshall speaks about the COVID-19 outbreak" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/imvt6-d69485?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><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584645191976.jpeg" alt="U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, talks to constituents in January at HaysMed." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, talks to constituents in January at HaysMed.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIn the days and weeks ahead, U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., who is also a medical doctor said it will be up to communities to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.This is the time for us to put the lid on this pandemic, he said, by staying home if your&nbsp; are sick, limiting contact and washing your hands."This is our chance to put a lid on it," Marshall said.He thought the infection would have already spread more in Kansas, but believes it will likely get worse before it gets better.Stopping large groups of people from gathering, including massive disruptions to businesses and schools, are necessary to help stop the spread, Marshall said."I think we have to. ... If we leave our churches open, we are going to go there and our elders and senior citizens are going to get infected," he said.Schools and nurseries also contribute to the spread as children often spread illness making the school closures important to mitigating the virus' impact."For the sake of protecting those at risk for this ... we need to do everything we can to contain this virus right now," Marshall said.While communities are working on the front lines of stopping the outbreak, Marshall has supported federal measures to help protect citizens, including increased funding for health care stockpiles, development of vaccines and antivirals and tax credits for small businesses that give employees time off for illness."We are expanding food stamps, expanding WIC programs as well as food banks," he said. "We are doing what we can to help small Kansans get through these hard times."He also praised the response from President Trump."He has done an incredible job showing leadership," Marshall said.&nbsp;"I think the president and the administration have done everything humanly possible to protect American lives."The travel ban on China was the right call, he said, even though it was incredibly unpopular by the national news media, with some going as far as to call the president xenophobic."It was absolutely the right decision," Marshall said. "It saved thousands of lives, maybe tens of thousands of American lives, by slowing down the virus."He said the administration's actions helped to make COVID-19 test kits more available as the president worked with the private sector to get test kits mobilized."Today, we have millions of test kits going out throughout the country," Marshall said, and private testing centers have been brought online through the administration's actions as well.While test kits are now more readily available, he said the CDC's slow rollout was "disappointing."But locally tests are available — with supply meeting demand."So far, everybody in Kansas that has needed a test kit and has met the criteria, has gotten it done," Marshall said.Overall, he believes we are in a much better position this week over last to deal with the crisis, but there is a lot of uncertainty ahead."I'm afraid to say it's going to get worse before it gets better," Marshall said.The next two weeks are likely to be the defining time of the outbreak, he said but "this will be around for two months at a minimum.""The hope is it will peak out here, I'm going to say in four to six weeks," Marshall said. "The question is how tall is that peak going to be.""These next four to five days will have a huge impact on what that number looks like," he said. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Every virus we prevent today is going to prevent dozens of infections in the next couple of weeks, which is going to save lives."Preventing the spread of the virus will prevent critical situations in rural areas."If we can decrease the peak, there will be less people impacted and we won't over-exceed what hospital workers we have got," Marshall said. "I know everyone is worried about respirators and all of those type of things, but really in rural America the shortage is doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists."Marshall hopes everyone will take the social distancing policies seriously and do their part to protect their community.He is urging everyone to do what the president has asked. "If you are sick, stay home. If you are over the age of 60, or you have some type of underlying health condition, stay at home. Otherwise please don't meet in groups of more than 10 people at a time, try to keep 6 feet between you. Wash your hands. About every time you touch somebody else, you should be washing your hands afterwards and, if you are going to touch people, just touch your elbows — and really I think it is socially OK to not shake hands anymore until further notice."While the situation is serious, and he supports social distancing and school and business closures, he said media has made the situation seem worse than it is."I'm so disappointed in the national media," he said.Even though he talks to the CDC almost everyday, he said, when&nbsp;watching national TV news he is scared by the&nbsp; coverage."They make this seem so dire," Marshall said. "We have been through worse things than this in Kansas with all the winter snowstorms and droughts and floods. So many more people die from the seasonal flu every year than from this virus."We can choose to live in fear, or we can choose to live in faith," he said.While speaking with doctors, nurses, politicians and citizens about why the response to this one is so different that others, he puts much of the blame on the outbreak being sensationalized by the national media.However, he said this virus is more infectious that&nbsp; the seasonal flu and has a higher mortality rate for certain segments of the population."So it's not purely apples to apples when compared to the swine flu, or the seasonal flu, but its not exponentially worse," Marshall said. "I think we should put it all in perspective, but do everything we can to protect ourselves and err with an abundance of over-caution."He pointed out more people will be killed in car accidents and suicides today than will die from this virus, and the seasonal flu will likely kill more people than COVID-19 this year.While the full economic impact will likely not be known until much later, getting workers back into the workforce soon is more&nbsp;important than any legislation, he said, and will require everyone to do their part."The very best thing we can do for this economy right now is to keep American healthy and get us back to work as quickly as possible," Marshall said.

🎤 Marshall praises COVID-19 response; says communities first line of defense

ACCESS Public Transportation announced this week it is the recipient of a $87,166 grant from Kansas Department of Transportation. 

This grant will be used for two projects targeted by ACCESS — facility and equipment upgrades, as well as a new maintenance vehicle.

These two projects were out of a total of 33 transit projects across the state that have been selected as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s new Access, Innovation, and Collaboration program. More than $74 million dollars was awarded by KDOT.

ACCESS provides on-demand transportation in Hays and Ellis County and is partially funded by the City of Hays, Ellis County, FHSU and Partnership for a Safer Community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584536781273.jpeg" alt="ACCESS van" />
 <figcaption>ACCESS van</figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWKACCESS Public Transportation announced this week it is the recipient of a $87,166 grant from Kansas Department of Transportation. This grant will be used for two projects targeted by ACCESS — facility and equipment upgrades, as well as a new maintenance vehicle.These two projects were out of a total of 33 transit projects across the state that have been selected as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s new Access, Innovation, and Collaboration program. More than $74 million dollars was awarded by KDOT.ACCESS provides on-demand transportation in Hays and Ellis County and is partially funded by the City of Hays, Ellis County, FHSU and Partnership for a Safer Community.

ACCESS receives KDOT grant for upgrades

Current Phillips County Sheriff&nbsp;Charles Radabaugh announced his intent to seek re-election Wednesday afternoon via the Sheriff's Department Facebook page.

I’d like to take this opportunity to announce my intent to seek reelection for the office of Phillips County Sheriff. This first term as Sheriff has been enlightening and also challenging. I am proud of our stand with both the public and area law enforcement that we have taken on illegal drugs within our community. The input and support from the public has been phenomenal and the working relationship with surrounding law enforcement is at its best.

The pursuit of illegal drugs will remain a priority because we believe that illegal drug activity is related to most crimes. Illegal drugs are not a victimless crime as proposed by some, they are directly related to most robberies, thefts, burglaries, disturbances, child abuse/neglect, along with assaults and batteries. To believe otherwise is nonsense and most streetwise law enforcement figures that out very quickly.

Current Phillips County Sheriff&nbsp;Charles Radabaugh announced his intent to seek re-election Wednesday afternoon via the Sheriff's Department Facebook page.The announcement follows.I’d like to take this opportunity to announce my intent to seek reelection for the office of Phillips County Sheriff. This first term as Sheriff has been enlightening and also challenging. I am proud of our stand with both the public and area law enforcement that we have taken on illegal drugs within our community. The input and support from the public has been phenomenal and the working relationship with surrounding law enforcement is at its best.The pursuit of illegal drugs will remain a priority because we believe that illegal drug activity is related to most crimes. Illegal drugs are not a victimless crime as proposed by some, they are directly related to most robberies, thefts, burglaries, disturbances, child abuse/neglect, along with assaults and batteries. To believe otherwise is nonsense and most streetwise law enforcement figures that out very quickly.On another thought, I believe our Constitution to be an inspired document written by our wise and visionary forefathers. It created a divide and balance of power between state's rights and federal overreach. Times have changed since then over the years and states rights (and the people's rights) have been undermined by the federal government.One of the most obvious is the federal government's exercise of police authority, the Constitution gives the federal government no such authority. Despite this, the federal government continues to inject themselves into law enforcement through newly created regulations, unfunded mandates, mandatory reporting, and intimidation. Congress has created over 50 law enforcement entities without any Constitutional authority. The money spent on duplicate laws and interference could be used by state and local criminal justice systems to improve local and community conditions.Only local and locally controlled law enforcement can meet the needs and demands of each community, local Sheriff’s spend local tax dollars and are accountable to local voters. The federal involvement in law enforcement results in a “one size fits nobody” concept. Locally elected Sheriff’s interact with local voters to validate their concerns and values, those that don’t are not in office very long.Charles RadabaughSheriff, Phillips County