PLAINVILLE - The Plainville Police Department is requesting assistance in identifying the individual in the photos below.

This individual is wanted for questioning in the connection with a theft of an automobile from a residence in the city of Plainville, Kansas. The vehicle was taken during the early morning hours of March 2, 2020.

 The vehicle is a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, dark blue in color and at the time of the theft it was bearing KS Plate 519 JJG. The vehicle had a KU Tag on the front that was starting to fade. 

Any information on this identification or whereabouts of this person or the location of this vehicle, please contact our agency at 785-434-2222.

PPDPLAINVILLE - The Plainville Police Department is requesting assistance in identifying the individual in the photos below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584375550416.jpeg" alt="Suspect sought by Plainville Police Dept. in connection with car theft" />
 <figcaption>Suspect sought by Plainville Police Dept. in connection with car theft</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584375611940.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584375628399.jpeg" alt="Vehicle suspected stolen from Plainville on March 2" />
 <figcaption>Vehicle suspected stolen from Plainville on March 2</figcaption>
 </figure>This individual is wanted for questioning in the connection with a theft of an automobile from a residence in the city of Plainville, Kansas. The vehicle was taken during the early morning hours of March 2, 2020. The vehicle is a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, dark blue in color and at the time of the theft it was bearing KS Plate 519 JJG. The vehicle had a KU Tag on the front that was starting to fade. Any information on this identification or whereabouts of this person or the location of this vehicle, please contact our agency at 785-434-2222.

Plainville PD looking for female suspect in car theft

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Ellis Co. EMS director shares local information about COVID-19" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/wvmg9-d65c5e?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

🎤Post Podcast: Ellis Co. EMS director shares local information about COVID-19

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Area businesses are offering food assistance in the light of school cancellations.

The Cardinal Drive In in Plainville posted on its Facebook page it would offer school-age children free lunch from 11 a.m. to noon March 16-20.

Geona Pharmacy, which is inside High Plains Mental Health in Hays, is offering free sack breakfasts and lunches while supplies last because of school cancellations.

The pharmacy is at 208 E. Seventh St., which is across from the Hadley Center. See the Facebook post below.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostArea businesses are offering food assistance in the light of school cancellations.The Cardinal Drive In in Plainville posted on its Facebook page it would offer school-age children free lunch from 11 a.m. to noon March 16-20.See the Facebook post below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584371608638.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Geona Pharmacy, which is inside High Plains Mental Health in Hays, is offering free sack breakfasts and lunches while supplies last because of school cancellations.The pharmacy is at 208 E. Seventh St., which is across from the Hadley Center. See the Facebook post below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584371798617.png" alt="\" />
 <figcaption>\</figcaption>
 </figure>

Businesses offer food for kids who are out of school

The Community Assistance Center food bank in Hays is distributing food as normal, but is bracing for what the director fears may be an increase in demand in the coming weeks.

The CAC has suspended shopping hours and garage sale times, but will continue to distribute food in accordance with its normal policies.

If the center has an influx of traffic in its lobby, it may limit the number of clients it allows in the building at one time, Laurie Mortinger, co-director, said.

The CAC has not seen an influx of food requests yet. However, she said she fears hotel and restaurant business slow downs because of the COVID-19 virus, could result in layoffs.

Mortinger said the food pantry is at about half capacity. It will remain open its normal hours for now.

"It is hard to know," Mortinger said. "We will have to see day to day how it is going to pan out. It is going to be a tough one here."

If you already have an application for food assistance on file at the CAC, you can still receive food six times per year. If you are already registered with the food bank, Mortinger said she hopes to get clients in and out of the center in about 10 minutes.&nbsp;

For those who need to apply for food assistance, you need to bring in some sort of proof of income and proof of Ellis County residency. This could be a water or utility bill or a copy of a current lease.

The CAC has sent home elderly volunteers. However, Mortinger said she does not need additional volunteers at this time.

The CAC is always in need of nonperishable food or monetary donations. For more information, call 785-625-9110. You can also follow the CAC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayscac/">Facebook</a>.

First Call for Help is also bracing for what its staff thinks might be an influx of families needing assistance in lieu of children being out of school.

The agency has already received calls for toilet paper. The agency does not have any nor can they get any, Linda Mills, director, said.

First Call has a small food pantry and does have food on hand. Those needing assistance can access the pantry once a month. The agency is asking people wait in their vehicles if there are several people in the office already, due to the small size of First Call's office.

First Call's primary mission is to provide housing assistance. The agency will continue to do so. You will need an appointment to apply. However, the interviews for assistance will be done over the phone if possible.

The center can always use donations of food or monetary donations for its rental assistance program.&nbsp;

For more information, call 785-623-2800 or visit the agency's <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">website</a>. There is an online donation button on First Call for Help's website homepage if you wish to help.

The Hays Post contacted Catholic Charities in Hays Monday morning. A representative there said no assistance policies have changed.

Clients can receive food once a month, hygiene items every other month and laundry detergent every three months.&nbsp;

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Community Assistance Center food bank in Hays is distributing food as normal, but is bracing for what the director fears may be an increase in demand in the coming weeks.The CAC has suspended shopping hours and garage sale times, but will continue to distribute food in accordance with its normal policies.If the center has an influx of traffic in its lobby, it may limit the number of clients it allows in the building at one time, Laurie Mortinger, co-director, said.The CAC has not seen an influx of food requests yet. However, she said she fears hotel and restaurant business slow downs because of the COVID-19 virus, could result in layoffs.Mortinger said the food pantry is at about half capacity. It will remain open its normal hours for now."It is hard to know," Mortinger said. "We will have to see day to day how it is going to pan out. It is going to be a tough one here."<h2>How to receive help</h2>If you already have an application for food assistance on file at the CAC, you can still receive food six times per year. If you are already registered with the food bank, Mortinger said she hopes to get clients in and out of the center in about 10 minutes.&nbsp;For those who need to apply for food assistance, you need to bring in some sort of proof of income and proof of Ellis County residency. This could be a water or utility bill or a copy of a current lease.The CAC has sent home elderly volunteers. However, Mortinger said she does not need additional volunteers at this time.The CAC is always in need of nonperishable food or monetary donations. For more information, call 785-625-9110. You can also follow the CAC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayscac/">Facebook</a>.<h2>First Call for Help</h2>First Call for Help is also bracing for what its staff thinks might be an influx of families needing assistance in lieu of children being out of school.The agency has already received calls for toilet paper. The agency does not have any nor can they get any, Linda Mills, director, said.First Call has a small food pantry and does have food on hand. Those needing assistance can access the pantry once a month. The agency is asking people wait in their vehicles if there are several people in the office already, due to the small size of First Call's office.First Call's primary mission is to provide housing assistance. The agency will continue to do so. You will need an appointment to apply. However, the interviews for assistance will be done over the phone if possible.The center can always use donations of food or monetary donations for its rental assistance program.&nbsp;For more information, call 785-623-2800 or visit the agency's <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">website</a>. There is an online donation button on First Call for Help's website homepage if you wish to help.<h2>Catholic Charities</h2>The Hays Post contacted Catholic Charities in Hays Monday morning. A representative there said no assistance policies have changed.Clients can receive food once a month, hygiene items every other month and laundry detergent every three months.&nbsp;

Non-profits brace for increase in need due to COVID-19 virus

Based on Governor Kelly's strong recommendation for all Kansas schools to close for the week due to the COVID-19 coronavirus, NCK Tech will adhere to that recommendation and cancel all face-to-face classes on both campuses (Hays and Beloit) for March 16-20. 

Spring Break will continue as scheduled the following week, March 23-27. 

Classes will then resume on March 30th as originally scheduled.

There are no changes to online class schedules;&nbsp; they will continue as usual.

Students living&nbsp;on the Beloit campus are asked to check out by end of day Monday. Students with extenuating circumstances need to contact Shane Britt, Dean of Student Experience.

Faculty and staff will receive additional instructions for expectations for the upcoming week.

As this situation evolves, we will update employees and students via Rave alert and your NCK Tech e-mail account.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584371385296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechBased on Governor Kelly's strong recommendation for all Kansas schools to close for the week due to the COVID-19 coronavirus, NCK Tech will adhere to that recommendation and cancel all face-to-face classes on both campuses (Hays and Beloit) for March 16-20. Spring Break will continue as scheduled the following week, March 23-27. Classes will then resume on March 30th as originally scheduled.There are no changes to online class schedules;&nbsp; they will continue as usual.Students living&nbsp;on the Beloit campus are asked to check out by end of day Monday. Students with extenuating circumstances need to contact Shane Britt, Dean of Student Experience.Faculty and staff will receive additional instructions for expectations for the upcoming week.As this situation evolves, we will update employees and students via Rave alert and your NCK Tech e-mail account.

NCK Tech on-campus classes canceled this week

The Hays school district has canceled classes and all school activities from March 16-20 because of risk of spread of the COVID-19 virus.

In lieu of this closure, the district will be providing free box lunches this week for any child 1-18 starting on Tuesday, March 17 and running through Friday, March 20.&nbsp;

Curbside pickup will be available each day from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary School.

The line will start on Ash street and turn east on 20th. Meals will be delivered curbside on the north side of the building.

For your safety and the safety of the workers, please do not exit the vehicle. Children must be present in the vehicle to receive a meal. Menus are not what was originally published, and may change based on availability.

Children who attend Holy Family Elementary School and Thomas More-Prep Marian are encouraged to participate in the USD 489 box lunch program at this time.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school district has canceled classes and all school activities from March 16-20 because of risk of spread of the COVID-19 virus.In lieu of this closure, the district will be providing free box lunches this week for any child 1-18 starting on Tuesday, March 17 and running through Friday, March 20.&nbsp;Curbside pickup will be available each day from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary School.The line will start on Ash street and turn east on 20th. Meals will be delivered curbside on the north side of the building.For your safety and the safety of the workers, please do not exit the vehicle. Children must be present in the vehicle to receive a meal. Menus are not what was originally published, and may change based on availability.Children who attend Holy Family Elementary School and Thomas More-Prep Marian are encouraged to participate in the USD 489 box lunch program at this time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584365573699.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584365601127.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays USD 489 to offer free box lunches for kids 1-18

The Kansas Senate finished the ninth week of session with committee meetings and bills coming forward. The Senate held floor debate on March 5th passing out bills with the possibility of these bills having hearings the next week in
 the House which will be the last week for committees to meet and pass out bills.&nbsp; &nbsp;The legislature is very fluid at this point and will continue to work on legislation as time and safety allows with the daily updates we receive from the leaders in both the
 Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch which includes Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommendations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;


<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb255/" target="_blank">SB
 255</a> continues a 2007 commitment by the legislature to provide $5 million per year in support to The University of Kansas for obtaining the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI)
 Clinical Cancer Center Designation. This funding has served as a critical resource for The University of Kansas Cancer Center.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb140/" target="_blank">SB
 140</a> establishes income tax and privilege tax credits for contributions to the Eisenhower foundation. Senate Bill 140 would allow a taxpayer, Corporation, or Financial Institution
 to receive a new tax credit for 50.0 percent of certain contributions made to the Eisenhower Foundation for tax years 2019-2023. Individual income taxpayers would only be allowed to claim up to $25,000 per tax year. Corporations and Financial Institutions
 would be able to claim $50,000 per tax year on income or privilege tax. The total amount of credits claimed in any fiscal year would be limited to $350,000.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb409/" target="_blank">SB
 409</a> makes permanent the quality care assessment imposed on skilled nursing care facilities. This is a technical bill to push back the sunset (expiration) of the Nursing Quality
 Care Assessment from July 1, 2020 to July 1, 2030.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb225/" target="_blank">SB
 225</a> amends the hospital provider assessment rate and uses and membership of the healthcare access improvement panel.

The Appointment of David Weishaar, Kansas Adjutant General confirmation

The Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs heard the nomination of David Weishaar on February 20. He succeeds Major General Lee Tafanelli, who has served as Adjutant
 General since January 28, 2011 and who retires March 31, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp; In Kansas, the adjutant general is the top military advisor to the governor, leads the state's 7,100-person Army and Air Guard operations and directs the state's division of emergency management
 and homeland security. Prior to his appointment, Brigadier General David Weishaar served as the Director of Joint Staff, Kansas National Guard, Chief of Staff- Air, Commander, Kansas Air National Guard and most recently became dual hatted as the Air National
 Guard Assistant to Commander, Air Force Sustainment Center, Air Force Materiel Command, Tinker AFB.


KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (KDHE) – CORONAVIRUS

Daily updates and current information on the coronavirus can be found at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s webpage at
<a href="http://view.bbsv2.net/bbext/?p=link&amp;id=184c1864-0fe4-f123-3812-4699bb83672d&amp;c=91f4b0c1-2b72-e547-7150-3374931dee57&amp;cid=A0D2F9E37C1F0412E0530100007FB393&amp;dst=bVZjUVBIRzY3a0VpemJaREt4ZysxSlBtOHdSRnVLZ2R0RDd5aytUNDNkY2s%3D&amp;eml=ZWxhaW5lQGNvbmNvcmRpYWF1dG9tYXJ0LmNvbQ%3D%3D" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;
 Along with the updates, you will be able to assess frequently asked questions and current publications on the virus in the Public Update section.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) works to protect and improve the health and environment of all Kansans.&nbsp; KDHE includes three divisions:&nbsp; Public Health, Environment and Health Care Finance, which includes the
 administration of KanCare-the state’s Medicaid program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lee A. Norman, MD, is the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, appointed by Governor Laura Kelly.


Dr. Norman received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota, did his residency in family medicine in Texas and his aerospace medicine training in the United States Air Force at Brooks AFB in San
 Antonio. Dr. Norman has served as a chief medical officer for over 26 years, most recently at the University of Kansas Health System and before that the Swedish Health System in Seattle, beginning in 1991. He currently is clinical assistant professor at the
 University of Kansas School of Medicine. In his military role, Norman is a colonel in the Kansas Army National Guard, stationed at Joint Forces Headquarters in Topeka, Kansas.&nbsp; He serves as advisor and liaison to the Kansas Department of Emergency Management
 and Homeland Security. In 2018 he returned from a Middle East US Army deployment where he was the 35th Infantry Division Surgeon. In this role he was the senior medical commander over 12,000 U.S. soldiers encompassing three named operations - Freedom Sentinel,
 Spartan Shield and Inherent Resolve. Additionally, Norman serves on the Defense Health Board as an advisor to the U.S: Secretary of Defense.

The Kansas Constitution, including the Ordinance, Preamble, and Bill of Rights, is available to print in a&nbsp;pocket sized version from the State Library’s website
<a href="http://kslib.info/constitution" target="_blank">http://kslib.info/constitution</a>. Just click on the link and follow
 the instructions. A helpful diagram shows how to fold and where to cut to assemble your booklet. Helpful tip: print double sided and flip on the long edge.&nbsp;

Kansas residents can access information on legislation, legislative procedure, state government, public policy issues and more by calling 1-800-432-3924.&nbsp; Calls are answered by experienced reference/research librarians at the State
 Library of Kansas and kept confidential.&nbsp; Lines are open weekdays 8AM-5PM.&nbsp; Callers can also leave brief messages to be delivered to legislators as well as request copies of bills, journals, and other legislative documents.&nbsp;


We had another busy few week with visitors from home including the Hays and Russell commissioners with an update for us on the R9 project and the Tallgrass Ranchers from the Flint Hills who visit us
 every year. &nbsp; The Kansas Optometric Association and the Kansas Association of Insurance Agents held their annual meeting and receptions along with the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees and Phi Theta Kappa 2020 scholars.&nbsp;

Thank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules,
 bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>.
 You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website.&nbsp; Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol BuildingRoom 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785 296-7389</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580853658061.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SENATE HIGHLIGHTSThe Kansas Senate finished the ninth week of session with committee meetings and bills coming forward. The Senate held floor debate on March 5th passing out bills with the possibility of these bills having hearings the next week in
 the House which will be the last week for committees to meet and pass out bills.&nbsp; &nbsp;The legislature is very fluid at this point and will continue to work on legislation as time and safety allows with the daily updates we receive from the leaders in both the
 Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch which includes Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommendations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
SENATE FLOOR ACTION<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb255/" target="_blank">SB
 255</a> continues a 2007 commitment by the legislature to provide $5 million per year in support to The University of Kansas for obtaining the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI)
 Clinical Cancer Center Designation. This funding has served as a critical resource for The University of Kansas Cancer Center.
<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb140/" target="_blank">SB
 140</a> establishes income tax and privilege tax credits for contributions to the Eisenhower foundation. Senate Bill 140 would allow a taxpayer, Corporation, or Financial Institution
 to receive a new tax credit for 50.0 percent of certain contributions made to the Eisenhower Foundation for tax years 2019-2023. Individual income taxpayers would only be allowed to claim up to $25,000 per tax year. Corporations and Financial Institutions
 would be able to claim $50,000 per tax year on income or privilege tax. The total amount of credits claimed in any fiscal year would be limited to $350,000.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb409/" target="_blank">SB
 409</a> makes permanent the quality care assessment imposed on skilled nursing care facilities. This is a technical bill to push back the sunset (expiration) of the Nursing Quality
 Care Assessment from July 1, 2020 to July 1, 2030.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb225/" target="_blank">SB
 225</a> amends the hospital provider assessment rate and uses and membership of the healthcare access improvement panel.The Appointment of David Weishaar, Kansas Adjutant General confirmation
The Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs heard the nomination of David Weishaar on February 20. He succeeds Major General Lee Tafanelli, who has served as Adjutant
 General since January 28, 2011 and who retires March 31, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp; In Kansas, the adjutant general is the top military advisor to the governor, leads the state's 7,100-person Army and Air Guard operations and directs the state's division of emergency management
 and homeland security. Prior to his appointment, Brigadier General David Weishaar served as the Director of Joint Staff, Kansas National Guard, Chief of Staff- Air, Commander, Kansas Air National Guard and most recently became dual hatted as the Air National
 Guard Assistant to Commander, Air Force Sustainment Center, Air Force Materiel Command, Tinker AFB.
KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (KDHE) – CORONAVIRUS
Daily updates and current information on the coronavirus can be found at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s webpage at
<a href="http://view.bbsv2.net/bbext/?p=link&amp;id=184c1864-0fe4-f123-3812-4699bb83672d&amp;c=91f4b0c1-2b72-e547-7150-3374931dee57&amp;cid=A0D2F9E37C1F0412E0530100007FB393&amp;dst=bVZjUVBIRzY3a0VpemJaREt4ZysxSlBtOHdSRnVLZ2R0RDd5aytUNDNkY2s%3D&amp;eml=ZWxhaW5lQGNvbmNvcmRpYWF1dG9tYXJ0LmNvbQ%3D%3D" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;
 Along with the updates, you will be able to assess frequently asked questions and current publications on the virus in the Public Update section.&nbsp;
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) works to protect and improve the health and environment of all Kansans.&nbsp; KDHE includes three divisions:&nbsp; Public Health, Environment and Health Care Finance, which includes the
 administration of KanCare-the state’s Medicaid program.&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee A. Norman, MD, is the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, appointed by Governor Laura Kelly.
Dr. Norman received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota, did his residency in family medicine in Texas and his aerospace medicine training in the United States Air Force at Brooks AFB in San
 Antonio. Dr. Norman has served as a chief medical officer for over 26 years, most recently at the University of Kansas Health System and before that the Swedish Health System in Seattle, beginning in 1991. He currently is clinical assistant professor at the
 University of Kansas School of Medicine. In his military role, Norman is a colonel in the Kansas Army National Guard, stationed at Joint Forces Headquarters in Topeka, Kansas.&nbsp; He serves as advisor and liaison to the Kansas Department of Emergency Management
 and Homeland Security. In 2018 he returned from a Middle East US Army deployment where he was the 35th Infantry Division Surgeon. In this role he was the senior medical commander over 12,000 U.S. soldiers encompassing three named operations - Freedom Sentinel,
 Spartan Shield and Inherent Resolve. Additionally, Norman serves on the Defense Health Board as an advisor to the U.S: Secretary of Defense.FROM THE STATE LIBRARYThe Kansas Constitution, including the Ordinance, Preamble, and Bill of Rights, is available to print in a&nbsp;pocket sized version from the State Library’s website
<a href="http://kslib.info/constitution" target="_blank">http://kslib.info/constitution</a>. Just click on the link and follow
 the instructions. A helpful diagram shows how to fold and where to cut to assemble your booklet. Helpful tip: print double sided and flip on the long edge.&nbsp;
Kansas residents can access information on legislation, legislative procedure, state government, public policy issues and more by calling 1-800-432-3924.&nbsp; Calls are answered by experienced reference/research librarians at the State
 Library of Kansas and kept confidential.&nbsp; Lines are open weekdays 8AM-5PM.&nbsp; Callers can also leave brief messages to be delivered to legislators as well as request copies of bills, journals, and other legislative documents.&nbsp;
Visitors from Senate District #36We had another busy few week with visitors from home including the Hays and Russell commissioners with an update for us on the R9 project and the Tallgrass Ranchers from the Flint Hills who visit us
 every year. &nbsp; The Kansas Optometric Association and the Kansas Association of Insurance Agents held their annual meeting and receptions along with the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees and Phi Theta Kappa 2020 scholars.&nbsp;
THANK YOU FOR ENGAGINGThank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules,
 bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>.
 You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website.&nbsp; Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol BuildingRoom 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785 296-7389</a>

BOWERS: Senate Scene Weeks 8 & 9

Continuing the celebration of its 50th season, Western Plains Arts Association brings Marimba Sol De Chiapas to Hoxie High School Auditorium, at 3 p.m. CDT, Sunday, March 22.

This project is generously funded by Mid-America Arts Alliance, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the state arts agencies of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Major sponsors include a special grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kansas.

Marimba Sol De Chiapas is the first professional folkloric music ensemble of&nbsp;its kind permanently-based within the United States and calling Kansas City home&nbsp;since 1991. Now in its 16th year, the&nbsp;evolution of the group was actually started by Dr. Laurence Kaptain in 1988 as&nbsp;Marimba&nbsp;Yajalón. Committed to the authentic performance of the&nbsp;marimba,&nbsp;Marimba Sol de Chiapas&nbsp;(which translates as&nbsp;The Chiapan Sun Marimba Group) maintains an active schedule&nbsp;of performances, recordings, and multi-cultural workshops.

Sol&nbsp;is a Mid-America Arts Alliance-approved&nbsp;Touring Performer with more than 20 years of ensemble highlights ranging from a feature on National&nbsp;Public Radio’s&nbsp;Morning Edition&nbsp;and a cameo appearance on ABC’s&nbsp;Good Morning&nbsp;America, to performing at the art world’s premier event of the Americas—Art Basel&nbsp;Miami. From performances at three&nbsp;International Festivals of the Marimba&nbsp;and events hosted by the Mexican Consul of New Orleans celebrating the&nbsp;Bicentennial of Mexico’s independence from Spain,&nbsp;to several&nbsp;Compact Disc recordings. So&nbsp;authentic is their interpretation and approach that the ensemble has toured&nbsp;Mexico on numerous occasions as guests of the Mexican government.

Marimba Sol de&nbsp;Chiapas&nbsp;is North America's premiere professional&nbsp;Mexican Marimba band.

Much more than a musical instrument, the marimba in Mexico is a cultural symbol&nbsp;woven into the fabric of everyday life in the state of Chiapas. It is difficult&nbsp;to walk down any street within the state without hearing&nbsp;las maderas que cantan&nbsp;or what Chiapans affectionately call "the wood that sings." Chiapas is one of&nbsp;Mexico's most isolated and exotic states, which only adds resonance to the&nbsp;combination of reality and legend that surrounds the marimba, its music, and the&nbsp;people who play the instrument.

At first glance, a North American audience sees what they think is a sort of&nbsp;xylophone--and they are right! The marimba is a type of xylophone. There are&nbsp;two most obvious differences--aside from instrument materials/construction and&nbsp;appearance--between the Mexican marimba tradition and the "concert marimba"&nbsp;tradition that most North Americans are familiar with. The first is that the&nbsp;Mexican tradition most always has several musicians performing on a single&nbsp;instrument, whereas the concert tradition usually involves a single solo&nbsp;performer. The second difference is the very distinctive "buzz" that is an integral&nbsp;part of the sound of the Mexican instrument, and that is lacking on the concert&nbsp;version of the marimba.

Eclectic is the best term with which one would describe the repertoire of&nbsp;the marimba. Groups will literally perform any musical work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583764690371.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WPAAContinuing the celebration of its 50th season, Western Plains Arts Association brings Marimba Sol De Chiapas to Hoxie High School Auditorium, at 3 p.m. CDT, Sunday, March 22.This project is generously funded by Mid-America Arts Alliance, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the state arts agencies of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.Major sponsors include a special grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kansas.Marimba Sol De Chiapas is the first professional folkloric music ensemble of&nbsp;its kind permanently-based within the United States and calling Kansas City home&nbsp;since 1991. Now in its 16th year, the&nbsp;evolution of the group was actually started by Dr. Laurence Kaptain in 1988 as&nbsp;Marimba&nbsp;Yajalón. Committed to the authentic performance of the&nbsp;marimba,&nbsp;Marimba Sol de Chiapas&nbsp;(which translates as&nbsp;The Chiapan Sun Marimba Group) maintains an active schedule&nbsp;of performances, recordings, and multi-cultural workshops.Sol&nbsp;is a Mid-America Arts Alliance-approved&nbsp;Touring Performer with more than 20 years of ensemble highlights ranging from a feature on National&nbsp;Public Radio’s&nbsp;Morning Edition&nbsp;and a cameo appearance on ABC’s&nbsp;Good Morning&nbsp;America, to performing at the art world’s premier event of the Americas—Art Basel&nbsp;Miami. From performances at three&nbsp;International Festivals of the Marimba&nbsp;and events hosted by the Mexican Consul of New Orleans celebrating the&nbsp;Bicentennial of Mexico’s independence from Spain,&nbsp;to several&nbsp;Compact Disc recordings. So&nbsp;authentic is their interpretation and approach that the ensemble has toured&nbsp;Mexico on numerous occasions as guests of the Mexican government.Marimba Sol de&nbsp;Chiapas&nbsp;is North America's premiere professional&nbsp;Mexican Marimba band.Much more than a musical instrument, the marimba in Mexico is a cultural symbol&nbsp;woven into the fabric of everyday life in the state of Chiapas. It is difficult&nbsp;to walk down any street within the state without hearing&nbsp;las maderas que cantan&nbsp;or what Chiapans affectionately call "the wood that sings." Chiapas is one of&nbsp;Mexico's most isolated and exotic states, which only adds resonance to the&nbsp;combination of reality and legend that surrounds the marimba, its music, and the&nbsp;people who play the instrument.At first glance, a North American audience sees what they think is a sort of&nbsp;xylophone--and they are right! The marimba is a type of xylophone. There are&nbsp;two most obvious differences--aside from instrument materials/construction and&nbsp;appearance--between the Mexican marimba tradition and the "concert marimba"&nbsp;tradition that most North Americans are familiar with. The first is that the&nbsp;Mexican tradition most always has several musicians performing on a single&nbsp;instrument, whereas the concert tradition usually involves a single solo&nbsp;performer. The second difference is the very distinctive "buzz" that is an integral&nbsp;part of the sound of the Mexican instrument, and that is lacking on the concert&nbsp;version of the marimba.Eclectic is the best term with which one would describe the repertoire of&nbsp;the marimba. Groups will literally perform any musical work.

Renowned Mexican marimba band will perform in Hoxie

Each year the NW 4-H Advisory hosts a two-day recreation leadership workshop for those working with youth and other groups.&nbsp; This year the focus is on the “Team Bonding, Team Building or Team Development?”&nbsp;

In this workshop, Michelle Cummings will share insights and strategies on how to surface behaviors through play through experiential activities. This high-energy, hands-on workshop will teach participants how to play some of the industry’s best icebreakers, leadership games and unique ways to reflect on what you are learning.

Day 2 is a completely different session, so plan to come for one, the other or both days.

Registration is due Wednesday, March 25. &nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/ellis-county4h/4-hevents/nw4hevents/NWTeamBuilding2020.pdf">https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/ellis-county4h/4-hevents/nw4hevents/NWTeamBuilding2020.pdf</a>

Please help us get the word out to others who might put this opportunity to good use and come and join us for one or both days.&nbsp; It will be engaging, high energy and a great learning opportunity.

For more information contact Susan Schlichting, Cottonwood District Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development at 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583872434264.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>COTTONWOOD DISTRICTEach year the NW 4-H Advisory hosts a two-day recreation leadership workshop for those working with youth and other groups.&nbsp; This year the focus is on the “Team Bonding, Team Building or Team Development?”&nbsp;In this workshop, Michelle Cummings will share insights and strategies on how to surface behaviors through play through experiential activities. This high-energy, hands-on workshop will teach participants how to play some of the industry’s best icebreakers, leadership games and unique ways to reflect on what you are learning.Day 2 is a completely different session, so plan to come for one, the other or both days.Registration is due Wednesday, March 25. &nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/ellis-county4h/4-hevents/nw4hevents/NWTeamBuilding2020.pdf">https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/ellis-county4h/4-hevents/nw4hevents/NWTeamBuilding2020.pdf</a>Please help us get the word out to others who might put this opportunity to good use and come and join us for one or both days.&nbsp; It will be engaging, high energy and a great learning opportunity.For more information contact Susan Schlichting, Cottonwood District Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development at 785-628-9430.

Team-building workshop scheduled for those working with youth


MANHATTAN —&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2020 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Funds for the program are awarded to the agency by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s
Agricultural Marketing Service. The funds are in turn granted to projects and organizations that promote the competitiveness of specialty crops.


The purpose of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, which are defined by the USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts,
dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.”


Applications will be evaluated by a team of external reviewers. The team will rate proposals on their ability to successfully promote specialty crops in Kansas and make a positive impact on the Kansas economy. Those
recommendations will be submitted to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will make the final awards. 

Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 20, 2020. You can find more information about the grant program, including the 2020 application, at the KDA website: <a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FSpecialtyCrop&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C18bd0f6a501940444c3008d7c42ede0c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637193579174420524&amp;sdata=0vGBr2IPabsflZku312QBe4IhTOEF3tD1S%2BFmPhZ9AU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/SpecialtyCrop</a>.
For other questions, contact Peter Oppelt, KDA economist, at <a href="mailto:Peter.Oppelt@ks.gov" target="_blank">Peter.Oppelt@ks.gov</a>
or 785-564-6726. &nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic
growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy including the further development and expansion of marketing opportunities for the specialty crop industry.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583868600288.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDA
MANHATTAN —&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2020 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Funds for the program are awarded to the agency by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s
Agricultural Marketing Service. The funds are in turn granted to projects and organizations that promote the competitiveness of specialty crops.
The purpose of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, which are defined by the USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts,
dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.”
Applications will be evaluated by a team of external reviewers. The team will rate proposals on their ability to successfully promote specialty crops in Kansas and make a positive impact on the Kansas economy. Those
recommendations will be submitted to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will make the final awards. 
Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 20, 2020. You can find more information about the grant program, including the 2020 application, at the KDA website: <a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FSpecialtyCrop&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C18bd0f6a501940444c3008d7c42ede0c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637193579174420524&amp;sdata=0vGBr2IPabsflZku312QBe4IhTOEF3tD1S%2BFmPhZ9AU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/SpecialtyCrop</a>.
For other questions, contact Peter Oppelt, KDA economist, at <a href="mailto:Peter.Oppelt@ks.gov" target="_blank">Peter.Oppelt@ks.gov</a>
or 785-564-6726. &nbsp;The Kansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic
growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy including the further development and expansion of marketing opportunities for the specialty crop industry.

KDA announces Specialty Crop Grant opportunity

<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>

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 </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/2020/3/1584299181026.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

The Girl Scouts have announced they will be closing their offices. They have suspended the cookie program and are recommending troops cancel meetings in light of the Corona virus.

The Girl Scouts have announced they will be closing their offices. They have suspended the cookie program and are recommending troops cancel meetings in light of the Corona virus.

Girl Scouts close offices, suspend cookie sales, meetings

We have spent the past few weeks monitoring the rapidly changing COVID-19 coronavirus health issue in our region. 

Every step we’ve taken over the past couple of weeks has been taken only after thoughtful consideration and deep discussions with many who are invested in both the education and well-being of our children. I have also been working closely with the KASB and KSDE leadership and following suggested guidance that has been a change from our daily routines.

The Commissioner of Education with support from KDHE, Department of Homeland Security, KNEA, USA, KSSA, and Governor’s office strongly recommended that Kansas schools close for the week of March 16 – March 20. 

We would have spring break as scheduled March 23 - March 27.

Now, I believe that we should follow the recommendations of the state leadership.

Victoria School District will be closed March 16 – March 27, while we continue to monitor the situation and Kansas Leadership recommendations. 

This decision was made thoughtfully and with the student safety at the center of the decision.

USD 432We have spent the past few weeks monitoring the rapidly changing COVID-19 coronavirus health issue in our region. Every step we’ve taken over the past couple of weeks has been taken only after thoughtful consideration and deep discussions with many who are invested in both the education and well-being of our children. I have also been working closely with the KASB and KSDE leadership and following suggested guidance that has been a change from our daily routines.The Commissioner of Education with support from KDHE, Department of Homeland Security, KNEA, USA, KSSA, and Governor’s office strongly recommended that Kansas schools close for the week of March 16 – March 20. We would have spring break as scheduled March 23 - March 27.Now, I believe that we should follow the recommendations of the state leadership.Victoria School District will be closed March 16 – March 27, while we continue to monitor the situation and Kansas Leadership recommendations. This decision was made thoughtfully and with the student safety at the center of the decision.Thank you,Kent MichelSuperintendent of Schools

USD 432 Victoria closed for the week following COVID-19 concerns

Ellis USD 388 prioritizes the saftey and health of our student, faculty, staff and public.&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to concerns with the possible risk associated with COVID-19, Ellis USD 388 will be shutting down tomorrow, Monday, March 16, through March 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;This will result in a two-week school closure.&nbsp;

It is the recommendation of Govenor Kelly and the Kansas State Department of Education that all schools close during the same period of time in Kansas to provide officials the time needed to finalize a comphehensive plan for how to address COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This information was released by KSDE at approximately 4:30 pm today, and we called an emergency USD 388 board meeting at 6:00 p.m.

The Ellis School District will be closed from Monday, March 16,through Sunday, March 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;We will be closing ALL district buildings and facilities and cancelling ALL practices and other planned school activities/events. 

This includes the Ellis weight room facility.&nbsp;

Based on the guidelines we are receiving, we stongly discourage students and staff from gathering or socializing anywhere.&nbsp;&nbsp;This includes places like a friend’s house, a favorite restaurant, or the local shopping mall.&nbsp;

I know that this is short notice and will cause a hardship on many families.&nbsp;&nbsp;This decision was not made lightly and was made for the safety of our students, staff, and community.&nbsp;&nbsp;As we receive additional information, I will share it with you via email and our other online systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please check your email and our USD 388 website for updates each afternoon around 3:30 pm.

If you have any questions, please call the district office at 785-726-4281.

Usd 388Ellis USD 388 prioritizes the saftey and health of our student, faculty, staff and public.&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to concerns with the possible risk associated with COVID-19, Ellis USD 388 will be shutting down tomorrow, Monday, March 16, through March 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;This will result in a two-week school closure.&nbsp;It is the recommendation of Govenor Kelly and the Kansas State Department of Education that all schools close during the same period of time in Kansas to provide officials the time needed to finalize a comphehensive plan for how to address COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;This information was released by KSDE at approximately 4:30 pm today, and we called an emergency USD 388 board meeting at 6:00 p.m.The Ellis School District will be closed from Monday, March 16,through Sunday, March 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;We will be closing ALL district buildings and facilities and cancelling ALL practices and other planned school activities/events. This includes the Ellis weight room facility.&nbsp;Based on the guidelines we are receiving, we stongly discourage students and staff from gathering or socializing anywhere.&nbsp;&nbsp;This includes places like a friend’s house, a favorite restaurant, or the local shopping mall.&nbsp;I know that this is short notice and will cause a hardship on many families.&nbsp;&nbsp;This decision was not made lightly and was made for the safety of our students, staff, and community.&nbsp;&nbsp;As we receive additional information, I will share it with you via email and our other online systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please check your email and our USD 388 website for updates each afternoon around 3:30 pm.If you have any questions, please call the district office at 785-726-4281.Corey BurtonUSD 388 Superintendent&nbsp;

USD 388 schools closed for the week following recommendation 

Due to concerns with the possible health risks associated with Covid-19, U.S.D. 270 is following the recommendations of the Kansas State Department of Education to cancel school and all school activities the week of March 16-20. 

We will also be closed the following week for our scheduled Spring Break. 

We will continue to monitor and update you with any additional information in regards to school on March 30th.

Sacred Heart Grade School in Plainville will also be closed for the week.

USD 270Due to concerns with the possible health risks associated with Covid-19, U.S.D. 270 is following the recommendations of the Kansas State Department of Education to cancel school and all school activities the week of March 16-20. We will also be closed the following week for our scheduled Spring Break. We will continue to monitor and update you with any additional information in regards to school on March 30th.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D2673370726093184%26id%3D1131808040249468&width=500" width="500" height="247" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>Sacred Heart Grade School in Plainville will also be closed for the week.

Plainville schools to follow KDE recommendation and close this week

TOPEKA - One day after saying spring sports would go on as normal while they monitor the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the Kansas State High School Activities Association announced on Sunday that all spring sports and activities are suspended for one week.

Effective Monday, March 16, all spring sports and activities are suspended through Sunday, March 22. This includes cancellation of all practices and competitions for this week. This prohibition is consistent with KSDE and governmental guidance and may be extended, should conditions warrant. Please note spring sports team members are prohibited from club or outside team participation and practice during this period. Not only would such outside participation be contrary to handbook rule, it would be contrary to the very reason activities are cancelled during the time we seek to mitigate potential transfer of the contagion.

TOPEKA - One day after saying spring sports would go on as normal while they monitor the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the Kansas State High School Activities Association announced on Sunday that all spring sports and activities are suspended for one week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584312723902.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Effective Monday, March 16, all spring sports and activities are suspended through Sunday, March 22. This includes cancellation of all practices and competitions for this week. This prohibition is consistent with KSDE and governmental guidance and may be extended, should conditions warrant. Please note spring sports team members are prohibited from club or outside team participation and practice during this period. Not only would such outside participation be contrary to handbook rule, it would be contrary to the very reason activities are cancelled during the time we seek to mitigate potential transfer of the contagion.

KSHSAA shuts down spring sports and activities for one week

As a precaution to the potential COVID-19 Coronavirus spread, Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary will be closed March 16 - 20. 

At this time classes are set to resume March 30 at the conclusion of the previously scheduled spring break.&nbsp;

This decision is made in communication with the Kansas Department of Education and in cooperation with USD 489 in an effort to slow the potential spread and offset burden to those in the healthcare field.&nbsp;

As this fluid situation evolves further details will be communicated to those affected. Updated cancellations and delays can be found via TMP-M and HFE social media platforms as well as tmp-m.org and hfehays.org

The announcement came after the Kansas State Department of Education made the recommendation to cancel classes.

Due to concerns with the possible risk associated with COVID-19, Hays Public Schools has been recommended by the Kansas State Department of Education to cancel school and all school activities the week of March 16-20. 

We will also be off the following week for our scheduled Spring Break. 

We will continue to monitor and update you with any additional information in regards to school restarting on March 30.

SubmittedAs a precaution to the potential COVID-19 Coronavirus spread, Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary will be closed March 16 - 20. At this time classes are set to resume March 30 at the conclusion of the previously scheduled spring break.&nbsp;This decision is made in communication with the Kansas Department of Education and in cooperation with USD 489 in an effort to slow the potential spread and offset burden to those in the healthcare field.&nbsp;As this fluid situation evolves further details will be communicated to those affected. Updated cancellations and delays can be found via TMP-M and HFE social media platforms as well as tmp-m.org and hfehays.orgThe announcement came after the Kansas State Department of Education made the recommendation to cancel classes.Due to concerns with the possible risk associated with COVID-19, Hays Public Schools has been recommended by the Kansas State Department of Education to cancel school and all school activities the week of March 16-20. We will also be off the following week for our scheduled Spring Break. We will continue to monitor and update you with any additional information in regards to school restarting on March 30.

Hays Catholic schools close in response to Dept. of Ed. recommendation

Due to concerns with the possible risk associated with Covid-19, Hays USD 489 has been recommended by the Kansas State Department of Education to cancel school and all school activities the week of March 16 to 20.

Classes will also be off the following week for the district's scheduled spring break.&nbsp;

"We will continue to monitor and update you with any additional information in regards to school restarting on March 30," the district said in a new release Sunday.

Hays USD 489Due to concerns with the possible risk associated with Covid-19, Hays USD 489 has been recommended by the Kansas State Department of Education to cancel school and all school activities the week of March 16 to 20.Classes will also be off the following week for the district's scheduled spring break.&nbsp;"We will continue to monitor and update you with any additional information in regards to school restarting on March 30," the district said in a new release Sunday.

Hays USD 489 cancels school before spring break

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly and Kansas' top education official has urged public schools to remain closed this week to check the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. 

The state health department also called Sunday for people who are traveling outside the U.S. or to several other states to quarantine themselves for two weeks upon their return. Kelly had a news conference to reinforce Education Commissioner Randy Watson's recommendation that schools close if they were not to be on spring break. 

The state health agency recommended home quarantines for anyone who was traveling Sunday or later outside the U.S. or to California, New York or Washington state.

TOPEKA —Late Sunday afternoon,&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson strongly recommended that schools currently coming off of spring break, suspend operations for the week March 16-20. 

All schools scheduled for spring break the week of March 16-20 will continue as planned. For schools who have spring break later in time, Commissioner Watson is strongly recommending they also close schools for the period of March 16-20.

"Closing all schools during this same period of time provides Kansas officials the time needed to finalize a comprehensive plan for how to address COVID-19.

It is critical that we all follow a coordinated response to this situation," according to Watson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584314427950.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly during Sunday's news conference -image courtesy office of Kansas Governor" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly during Sunday's news conference -image courtesy office of Kansas Governor</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly and Kansas' top education official has urged public schools to remain closed this week to check the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. The state health department also called Sunday for people who are traveling outside the U.S. or to several other states to quarantine themselves for two weeks upon their return. Kelly had a news conference to reinforce Education Commissioner Randy Watson's recommendation that schools close if they were not to be on spring break. The state health agency recommended home quarantines for anyone who was traveling Sunday or later outside the U.S. or to California, New York or Washington state.---------TOPEKA —Late Sunday afternoon,&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson strongly recommended that schools currently coming off of spring break, suspend operations for the week March 16-20. All schools scheduled for spring break the week of March 16-20 will continue as planned. For schools who have spring break later in time, Commissioner Watson is strongly recommending they also close schools for the period of March 16-20.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As of Sun, March 15, Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson strongly recommends that those schools currently coming off of spring break, suspend operations for the week March 16-20. All schools scheduled for spring break the week of March 16-20 will continue as planned.&mdash; KS Dept of Education (@ksdehq) <a href="https://twitter.com/ksdehq/status/1239303483796402185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Closing all schools during this same period of time provides Kansas officials the time needed to finalize a comprehensive plan for how to address COVID-19.It is critical that we all follow a coordinated response to this situation," according to Watson.

Kansas Governor, Ed Commissioner urge school closings

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🎤Post Podcast: Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge awards creative business ideas

With an unemployment rate around or under 2 percent, finding help is often challenging for businesses in Ellis County.

In an effort to help alleviate those concerns, one business took an out-of-the-box approach recruiting graduates from one of the largest technical colleges in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico.

“Our challenge is, while we are one of the largest employers, we would like to be even bigger,” said Joe Leroux, operations manager at Hess Services.”

The first group of 10 recruits from Mech-Tech College is set to arrive in Hays this week after a month’s long process ensuring the recruits have everything they need to successfully settle in Ellis County.

“The intent is for them to be here for the long term,” Leroux said. “It’s not contract work. It's truly young men and women wanting to locate here to be a part of Ellis County.”

Interest at the company in recruiting from the school started when Hess employees that had previously relocated from Puerto Rico said finding jobs on the island is difficult after graduation for many in technical fields, while Ellis County has the opposite problem. 

Many phone calls were made and once the interest was established, Leroux said, he made the trip to speak to students directly.

“We wanted to show them the proper courtesy and respect and let them see that this is important enough to us that we are going to send somebody in person,” he said.

“Picture yourself as a mom or dad of one of these young 20-something-year-old school graduates in Puerto Rico, hearing about this job opportunity, you are probably going to have some questions,” Leroux said, as the company has spent hours and days working to ensure the effort would be mutually beneficial.

While on the island Leroux, traveled to three of the five Mech-Tech campuses and met with hundreds of candidates. Out of the larger group, 60 candidates were selected that had already graduated and were ready to move at any time.

From that group ten were selected for the initial group to travel to Hays and begin with Hess.

Leroux said the number was limited to ten in the first group so the company could spend time ensuring they succeed in Ellis County and within the company, but if things go well many more will follow in the first group’s footsteps.

“We want to make sure we take in a small enough group that we really can take care of transportation and housing needs in such a way that they don’t feel overwhelmed,” he said.

Hess will cover the cost of travel, along with housing and transportation for their first 90 days to help them settle into the area.

Making sure the move into Ellis County for the workers is a positive experience is one of the goals of the program and the primary reason the first group was limited to ten.

“We want to help them be a part of the community, learn about the community and what it has to offer in forms of business, recreational activities and whatever facet of their personal life is important to them,” Leroux said.

They also want them to be able to have time to successfully complete the onboarding and internal training.

With the group set to arrive this week, Leroux said many community organizations have been excited to meet the recruits and welcome them to Hays.

“I have been overwhelmed by the response from all of these groups,” Leroux said. “There seems to be a sincere interest in welcoming these first ten and then as many more as we plan to bring in the future.”

While recruiting from so far away may seem extreme, Leroux said local options had been exhausted in bringing in the help the operation needs to complete their growth plan.

“Truly, we need more people working here before we take on more business,” Leroux said. “I felt the Puerto Rico hiring program was a unique, out of box way to deal with it.”

“I wouldn’t say that we are chronically short-handed as much as we can’t take on more business like we would love to because we seem to be stuck in the 350 (average number of employees,” Leroux said. It’s a little frustrating because we have good opportunities here.”

The business had simply exhausted local and regional options, with recruiting throughout the region not yielding results, as skilled labor shortages are a problem throughout the U.S.

“When you look at the low unemployment percentage in Ellis County and the surrounding area that doesn’t leave you with a lot of unemployed, job-seeking adults in the age range and the skill set that we are looking for,” Leroux said. 

"These men and women are not taking a job that somebody in the area could have filled. These are vacancies due to our growth plan that we can’t fill with local applicants.”

“So in order to get bigger we realized we would have to do some unconventional recruiting techniques, and this is one of the things that we tried in that effort,” he said.

Leroux sees the program as being good for not just Hess but for the region.

“We as a company won’t succeed if the community doesn’t succeed and the economic growth of the community, our company and all of the area companies are very much hand in hand,” he said.

“With these people coming here and bringing their families over once they are established, that’s going to contribute to the growth, and the ripple effect over time, I feel, will be very positive for area businesses and the community as a whole.”

It also helps out fellow Americans that cannot find jobs in their field or find work that pays the market rate.

 “Our job market is the exact opposite (of Puerto Rico’s,)” Leroux said. “It was really great to connect job seekers from one market that didn’t have the work with employers in another market that do have the work.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584240939594.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Hess Services" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Hess Services</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostWith an unemployment rate around or under 2 percent, finding help is often challenging for businesses in Ellis County.In an effort to help alleviate those concerns, one business took an out-of-the-box approach recruiting graduates from one of the largest technical colleges in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico.“Our challenge is, while we are one of the largest employers, we would like to be even bigger,” said Joe Leroux, operations manager at Hess Services.”The first group of 10 recruits from Mech-Tech College is set to arrive in Hays this week after a month’s long process ensuring the recruits have everything they need to successfully settle in Ellis County.“The intent is for them to be here for the long term,” Leroux said. “It’s not contract work. It's truly young men and women wanting to locate here to be a part of Ellis County.”Interest at the company in recruiting from the school started when Hess employees that had previously relocated from Puerto Rico said finding jobs on the island is difficult after graduation for many in technical fields, while Ellis County has the opposite problem. Many phone calls were made and once the interest was established, Leroux said, he made the trip to speak to students directly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584241823013.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Hess Services" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Hess Services</figcaption>
 </figure>“We wanted to show them the proper courtesy and respect and let them see that this is important enough to us that we are going to send somebody in person,” he said.“Picture yourself as a mom or dad of one of these young 20-something-year-old school graduates in Puerto Rico, hearing about this job opportunity, you are probably going to have some questions,” Leroux said, as the company has spent hours and days working to ensure the effort would be mutually beneficial.While on the island Leroux, traveled to three of the five Mech-Tech campuses and met with hundreds of candidates. Out of the larger group, 60 candidates were selected that had already graduated and were ready to move at any time.From that group ten were selected for the initial group to travel to Hays and begin with Hess.Leroux said the number was limited to ten in the first group so the company could spend time ensuring they succeed in Ellis County and within the company, but if things go well many more will follow in the first group’s footsteps.“We want to make sure we take in a small enough group that we really can take care of transportation and housing needs in such a way that they don’t feel overwhelmed,” he said.Hess will cover the cost of travel, along with housing and transportation for their first 90 days to help them settle into the area.Making sure the move into Ellis County for the workers is a positive experience is one of the goals of the program and the primary reason the first group was limited to ten.“We want to help them be a part of the community, learn about the community and what it has to offer in forms of business, recreational activities and whatever facet of their personal life is important to them,” Leroux said.They also want them to be able to have time to successfully complete the onboarding and internal training.With the group set to arrive this week, Leroux said many community organizations have been excited to meet the recruits and welcome them to Hays.“I have been overwhelmed by the response from all of these groups,” Leroux said. “There seems to be a sincere interest in welcoming these first ten and then as many more as we plan to bring in the future.”While recruiting from so far away may seem extreme, Leroux said local options had been exhausted in bringing in the help the operation needs to complete their growth plan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584241893196.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Hess Services" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Hess Services</figcaption>
 </figure>“Truly, we need more people working here before we take on more business,” Leroux said. “I felt the Puerto Rico hiring program was a unique, out of box way to deal with it.”“I wouldn’t say that we are chronically short-handed as much as we can’t take on more business like we would love to because we seem to be stuck in the 350 (average number of employees,” Leroux said. It’s a little frustrating because we have good opportunities here.”The business had simply exhausted local and regional options, with recruiting throughout the region not yielding results, as skilled labor shortages are a problem throughout the U.S.“When you look at the low unemployment percentage in Ellis County and the surrounding area that doesn’t leave you with a lot of unemployed, job-seeking adults in the age range and the skill set that we are looking for,” Leroux said. <h2>"These men and women are not taking a job that somebody in the area could have filled. These are vacancies due to our growth plan that we can’t fill with local applicants.”</h2>“So in order to get bigger we realized we would have to do some unconventional recruiting techniques, and this is one of the things that we tried in that effort,” he said.Leroux sees the program as being good for not just Hess but for the region.“We as a company won’t succeed if the community doesn’t succeed and the economic growth of the community, our company and all of the area companies are very much hand in hand,” he said.“With these people coming here and bringing their families over once they are established, that’s going to contribute to the growth, and the ripple effect over time, I feel, will be very positive for area businesses and the community as a whole.”It also helps out fellow Americans that cannot find jobs in their field or find work that pays the market rate. “Our job market is the exact opposite (of Puerto Rico’s,)” Leroux said. “It was really great to connect job seekers from one market that didn’t have the work with employers in another market that do have the work.”

Hess Services finds a unique solution to ongoing labor need

Friday afternoon, Colby Community College extended spring break by one week through March 27 due to concerns over the coronavirus. During the additional week, faculty will transition most classes to online delivery until further notice.

Offices will be open the week of March 16 and staff will report as usual. The college released an official statement, noting the following actions to limit potential exposure to the virus:

Athletics is following direction from the KJCCC and the NJCAA. A statement was released on March 12 canceling all regular-season Jayhawk Conference competition for all teams, effective March 13 through April 1. The college will monitor the direction of both entities and determine the best course of action if events resume during the semester.

Updates on CCC's response to COVID-19 are posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbycc.edu/covid19">www.colbycc.edu/covid19</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581529594449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCFriday afternoon, Colby Community College extended spring break by one week through March 27 due to concerns over the coronavirus. During the additional week, faculty will transition most classes to online delivery until further notice.Offices will be open the week of March 16 and staff will report as usual. The college released an official statement, noting the following actions to limit potential exposure to the virus:<ol>
 <li>The college swimming pool, the Steve Lampe Athletic Center, the campus gym, and fitness lab will be closed until further notice.&nbsp;</li><li>All non-campus activities using college facilities are also canceled until further notice.&nbsp;</li><li>Instead of physically coming to campus, the public is encouraged to call or send an email if assistance is needed from college personnel, including external parties wanting to visit campus.&nbsp;</li><li>All college-related travel is restricted among employees.</li>
 </ol>Athletics is following direction from the KJCCC and the NJCAA. A statement was released on March 12 canceling all regular-season Jayhawk Conference competition for all teams, effective March 13 through April 1. The college will monitor the direction of both entities and determine the best course of action if events resume during the semester.Updates on CCC's response to COVID-19 are posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbycc.edu/covid19">www.colbycc.edu/covid19</a>.

Colby CC extends spring break through March 27

Fort Hays State University and the Kansas Army National Guard have embarked on a new partnership to assist new and current service members in completing the process to become commissioned officers.&nbsp;

The partnership, the only one of its kind in the state of Kansas, is scheduled to start in the fall 2020 semester. To enroll in this Officer Candidate School program, service members attending Fort Hays State will take two classes, one in the fall and one in the spring of their senior year. To enroll, students must be current National Guard members who have completed basic training and OCS Phase 1, and who have completed 90 credit hours of college course work.&nbsp;

Upon graduating from FHSU, they will report to Fort Lewis, Washington, to complete Phase 3 of the OCS program and be commissioned as second lieutenants in the Kansas Army National Guard.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584112882050.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University and the Kansas Army National Guard have embarked on a new partnership to assist new and current service members in completing the process to become commissioned officers.&nbsp;The partnership, the only one of its kind in the state of Kansas, is scheduled to start in the fall 2020 semester. To enroll in this Officer Candidate School program, service members attending Fort Hays State will take two classes, one in the fall and one in the spring of their senior year. To enroll, students must be current National Guard members who have completed basic training and OCS Phase 1, and who have completed 90 credit hours of college course work.&nbsp;Upon graduating from FHSU, they will report to Fort Lewis, Washington, to complete Phase 3 of the OCS program and be commissioned as second lieutenants in the Kansas Army National Guard.&nbsp;Another innovation to this program is the creation of four classes open to all FHSU students. These on-campus classes will allow students to test out military life and the idea of becoming a military officer. They will also build community among FHSU students by giving them the opportunity to participate in the OCS process earlier than their senior year. &nbsp;&nbsp;The OCS courses are also part of a future military leadership minor program that will be available at Fort Hays State.&nbsp;“This program is just one of several examples of FHSU pursuing new and innovative ways to engage the military and better serve current and former members of our nation’s armed forces,” said Dr. Seth Kastle, assistant professor of leadership studies and director of military program innovation at FHSU and co-creator of the program.&nbsp;In recognition of this innovative partnership, the memorandum of understanding between Fort Hays State and the Kansas Guard will be signed at a ceremony at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 19, in room 212A-N in the state Capitol, Topeka.&nbsp;For more information on the OCS Program, please contact Capt. Craig McIntyre at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lonnie.c.mcintyre.mil@mail.mil">lonnie.c.mcintyre.mil@mail.mil</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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