MANHATTAN — Hoxie corn grower Brent Rogers is the new president of the <a href="https://kscorn.com/">Kansas Corn Growers Association</a>.

KCGA held its annual meeting on Jan. 23 at Manhattan during the Kansas Corn Symposium. Members received legislative and organizational updates, reviewed and approved 2020 resolutions and held board elections for the northern districts. 

Brent Rogers, Hoxie, was reelected to represent the northwest district; Tom Tibbits, Minneapolis, was reelected to represent the north central district and Ken McCauley, White Cloud, was reelected to represent the northeast district.

In a reorganizational meeting following the annual meeting, the KCGA board elected a new slate of officers. Brent Rogers was elected president; J.D. Hanna, Silver Lake, was elected vice president; Harvey Heier, Grainfield was reelected secretary and Kent Moore was reelected treasurer.

KCGA recognized leaders at the Kansas Corn Symposium dinner. Outgoing KCGA President Steve Rome, Hugoton, was recognized for his service. Rome remains on the KCGA board. Board member and former KCGA treasurer Charles Foltz, Garnett was recognized on his retirement from the board. Foltz had served on the board since 1992.

KCGA is a membership organization that represents its members in legislative and regulatory issues, provides grower professional development opportunities and promotes Kansas Corn.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581441735920.jpeg" alt=" J.D. Hanna, Silver Lake, was elected KCGA Vice President while Brent Rogers, Hoxie, was elected KCGA President." />
 <figcaption> J.D. Hanna, Silver Lake, was elected KCGA Vice President while Brent Rogers, Hoxie, was elected KCGA President.</figcaption>
 </figure>KCGAMANHATTAN — Hoxie corn grower Brent Rogers is the new president of the <a href="https://kscorn.com/">Kansas Corn Growers Association</a>. KCGA held its annual meeting on Jan. 23 at Manhattan during the Kansas Corn Symposium. Members received legislative and organizational updates, reviewed and approved 2020 resolutions and held board elections for the northern districts. Brent Rogers, Hoxie, was reelected to represent the northwest district; Tom Tibbits, Minneapolis, was reelected to represent the north central district and Ken McCauley, White Cloud, was reelected to represent the northeast district.In a reorganizational meeting following the annual meeting, the KCGA board elected a new slate of officers. Brent Rogers was elected president; J.D. Hanna, Silver Lake, was elected vice president; Harvey Heier, Grainfield was reelected secretary and Kent Moore was reelected treasurer.<h2>KCGA Leaders Recognized</h2>KCGA recognized leaders at the Kansas Corn Symposium dinner. Outgoing KCGA President Steve Rome, Hugoton, was recognized for his service. Rome remains on the KCGA board. Board member and former KCGA treasurer Charles Foltz, Garnett was recognized on his retirement from the board. Foltz had served on the board since 1992.KCGA is a membership organization that represents its members in legislative and regulatory issues, provides grower professional development opportunities and promotes Kansas Corn.

NW Kan. farmer named Kansas Corn Growers Association president

<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/2020/2/1581536697110.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

The annual banquet of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation's Big Creek Chapter will be 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at Rose Garden Banquet Hall.

Details and registration information are below or visit the group's Facebook event page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/437857290100087/">HERE</a>.

The annual banquet of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation's Big Creek Chapter will be 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at Rose Garden Banquet Hall.Details and registration information are below or visit the group's Facebook event page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/437857290100087/">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581017766968.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581017794565.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

RMEF's Big Creek Chapter annual banquet is Feb. 15

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

“Old iron.” That’s an affectionate term that farmers have for the old tractors and farm equipment of yesteryear. Those durable old pieces of equipment can serve as reminders of our agricultural heritage and how agriculture still serves our food supply. Today we’ll meet a group of volunteers who are working to share this agricultural heritage with others.

Byron Githens is a founder of the Wilson County Old Iron Club in Fredonia. He grew up in Fredonia, hauling hay and working with farmers. One of the farmers for whom he worked was Rollin Vandever, known as “Red.” Byron appreciated working on the farm, especially with old John Deere tractors.

Byron became a rural mail carrier. He met and married Leanne and bought some used farm equipment of his own.

In 1994, a vacant lot became available next to the city hall in downtown Fredonia. Byron and some friends decided to put on a tractor show so kids could see the old time equipment. It went so well that they decided to do it again the next year. In the following year, they added a threshing machine and a rock crushing demonstration. The annual event continued to grow.

Recognizing the need for more volunteers, Byron and others decided to form a club. In 1999, the Wilson County Old Iron Club formally organized with 25 charter members.&nbsp;&nbsp;Through the years, the annual equipment show was held in several locations around Fredonia.

Club members quickly focused on ways to educate children in the former ways of farming and farm life.&nbsp;“We want to show the kids how this old equipment worked,” Byron said. The mission of the Wilson County Old Iron Club is “the preservation of our agricultural heritage through education for all ages.”

When a new highway was built near town, it passed through farmland that was owned by the late Red Vandever. The highway route separated some 30-plus acres from the rest of the farmground. Byron Githens saw the potential in that property and he approached Red’s daughter Chris about using it for the old iron club. In the end, Chris and her husband Randy donated the property.

Today, the Rollin “Red” Vandever Memorial Park is the home of the Wilson County Old Iron Club. Multiple buildings have been added, creating a Main Street that looks like a reconstructed village of yesteryear. It also includes a modern community building, constructed with the support of the First National Bank in Fredonia.

This is the site of the annual Old Iron Days Show, held each year on the last full weekend of September from Thursday through Sunday. In its first year, the event hosted Fredonia schoolchildren as well as kids from nearby rural communities such as Neodesha and Altoona, population 414 people. Now, that’s rural. The event has grown to attract more than 2,000 schoolchildren from around the region.

Schoolchildren are invited to come for free on Thursday and Friday. The event includes a remarkable variety of live demonstrations from past rural life, including&nbsp;wheat threshing, rock crushing, wood stove cooking, cider pressing, corn husk doll making, old laundry methods, broom making, wood sawing, corn processing, chair caning, apple butter making, and much, much more. An annual highlight is the old-time tractor Parade of Power on Saturday at noon, followed by tractor pulls.

The Old Iron Club is now hosting events throughout the year at the memorial park. A Kansas Heritage speaker series is held during the winter. The club works closely with the Wilson County Conservation District, 4-H, and FFA on events year-round.&nbsp;

“With great community support and involvement, we continue to add exhibits each year and look for ways to find something of interest for every member of the family,” states the club website. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oldironclub.org/">www.oldironclub.org</a>.

“Old iron.” It’s a way of describing vintage farm equipment, and it’s the name of this non-profit community organization. We salute Byron and Leanne Githens and all the volunteers of the Wilson County Old Iron Club for making a difference by educating youth and the public about our agricultural heritage. Old iron can help build new understanding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580931947897.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Old iron.” That’s an affectionate term that farmers have for the old tractors and farm equipment of yesteryear. Those durable old pieces of equipment can serve as reminders of our agricultural heritage and how agriculture still serves our food supply. Today we’ll meet a group of volunteers who are working to share this agricultural heritage with others.Byron Githens is a founder of the Wilson County Old Iron Club in Fredonia. He grew up in Fredonia, hauling hay and working with farmers. One of the farmers for whom he worked was Rollin Vandever, known as “Red.” Byron appreciated working on the farm, especially with old John Deere tractors.Byron became a rural mail carrier. He met and married Leanne and bought some used farm equipment of his own.In 1994, a vacant lot became available next to the city hall in downtown Fredonia. Byron and some friends decided to put on a tractor show so kids could see the old time equipment. It went so well that they decided to do it again the next year. In the following year, they added a threshing machine and a rock crushing demonstration. The annual event continued to grow.Recognizing the need for more volunteers, Byron and others decided to form a club. In 1999, the Wilson County Old Iron Club formally organized with 25 charter members.&nbsp;&nbsp;Through the years, the annual equipment show was held in several locations around Fredonia.Club members quickly focused on ways to educate children in the former ways of farming and farm life.&nbsp;“We want to show the kids how this old equipment worked,” Byron said. The mission of the Wilson County Old Iron Club is “the preservation of our agricultural heritage through education for all ages.”When a new highway was built near town, it passed through farmland that was owned by the late Red Vandever. The highway route separated some 30-plus acres from the rest of the farmground. Byron Githens saw the potential in that property and he approached Red’s daughter Chris about using it for the old iron club. In the end, Chris and her husband Randy donated the property.Today, the Rollin “Red” Vandever Memorial Park is the home of the Wilson County Old Iron Club. Multiple buildings have been added, creating a Main Street that looks like a reconstructed village of yesteryear. It also includes a modern community building, constructed with the support of the First National Bank in Fredonia.This is the site of the annual Old Iron Days Show, held each year on the last full weekend of September from Thursday through Sunday. In its first year, the event hosted Fredonia schoolchildren as well as kids from nearby rural communities such as Neodesha and Altoona, population 414 people. Now, that’s rural. The event has grown to attract more than 2,000 schoolchildren from around the region.Schoolchildren are invited to come for free on Thursday and Friday. The event includes a remarkable variety of live demonstrations from past rural life, including&nbsp;wheat threshing, rock crushing, wood stove cooking, cider pressing, corn husk doll making, old laundry methods, broom making, wood sawing, corn processing, chair caning, apple butter making, and much, much more. An annual highlight is the old-time tractor Parade of Power on Saturday at noon, followed by tractor pulls.The Old Iron Club is now hosting events throughout the year at the memorial park. A Kansas Heritage speaker series is held during the winter. The club works closely with the Wilson County Conservation District, 4-H, and FFA on events year-round.&nbsp;“With great community support and involvement, we continue to add exhibits each year and look for ways to find something of interest for every member of the family,” states the club website. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oldironclub.org/">www.oldironclub.org</a>.“Old iron.” It’s a way of describing vintage farm equipment, and it’s the name of this non-profit community organization. We salute Byron and Leanne Githens and all the volunteers of the Wilson County Old Iron Club for making a difference by educating youth and the public about our agricultural heritage. Old iron can help build new understanding.

Now That’s Rural:  Byron Githens, Old Iron Club

By JAMES BELL,&nbsp;Hays Post

A Kansas felon was arrested Monday in Sheridan County following a chase that began in Gove County on Monday afternoon.

Darren Joseph Weber, 37, was wanted on a warrant for failure to appear and was spotted northwest of Gove around 1 p.m. Monday, according to Gove County Sheriff Allan Weber.

After a sheriff's deputy made contact with Weber, he drove toward the deputy.

As the Weber passed, the deputy fired at the vehicle striking and puncturing a rear tire.

Another officer attempted to block Weber's vehicle with his own and Weber struck the officer's vehicle, disabling the officer's vehicle, according to Weber.

A pursuit then began that lasted around 18 miles until the suspect stopped in Sheridan County.

After he came to a stop, he attempted to flee through a field, Weber said.

The Kansas Highway Patrol deployed a K9 unit and along with Sheridan County Sheriff's Deputies and KHP troopers, law enforcement located and arrested the suspect.

Weber has previous convictions for interference with law enforcement and aggravated battery in Trego County, according to Kansas Department of Correction records.

He remains in custody in the Trego County jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581622646267.jpeg" alt="Darren Joseph Weber" />
 <figcaption>Darren Joseph Weber</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL,&nbsp;Hays PostA Kansas felon was arrested Monday in Sheridan County following a chase that began in Gove County on Monday afternoon.Darren Joseph Weber, 37, was wanted on a warrant for failure to appear and was spotted northwest of Gove around 1 p.m. Monday, according to Gove County Sheriff Allan Weber.After a sheriff's deputy made contact with Weber, he drove toward the deputy.As the Weber passed, the deputy fired at the vehicle striking and puncturing a rear tire.Another officer attempted to block Weber's vehicle with his own and Weber struck the officer's vehicle, disabling the officer's vehicle, according to Weber.A pursuit then began that lasted around 18 miles until the suspect stopped in Sheridan County.After he came to a stop, he attempted to flee through a field, Weber said.The Kansas Highway Patrol deployed a K9 unit and along with Sheridan County Sheriff's Deputies and KHP troopers, law enforcement located and arrested the suspect.Weber has previous convictions for interference with law enforcement and aggravated battery in Trego County, according to Kansas Department of Correction records.He remains in custody in the Trego County jail.

Felon arrested after deputy shoots out tire, chase in western Kan.

PHILLIPSBURG - A Phillipsburg woman was arrested late Wednesday afternoon on charges of drug possession, according to a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/plsoks/?__tn__=kC-R&amp;eid=ARC-yrTXN6A4MfI-PwjzdSJUIniwXBkXx2SzJOoSvg-eC5wm9YhqAikCtI7DPV7I3E_IqRB93xfZ0I58&amp;hc_ref=ARQPaWVnTAbT0-3_M_OptWTlLL9fY4F-UpbU6t4b-_JDerwuXEPJ2upQIfJv--YKgKA&amp;fref=nf&amp;__xts__[0]=68.ARCwla5HxTx2G8xJ4yqsiEjtwUOzGlBbqmx2t92R7IzO_O7lA3ohylQP6bx8-tP9VOCMA3yrqtJX4Js8mblqE2Gf1mX75LGnL69VO8DEvmgSegggiPEmZICg6XWTjgDjEn01ReDlAMDRDxn-Mw2gNoFmUivdtnDg7Qkj6xjAGSPP8XkWjSdd8qPrfPhN7i52ASiez70MZDGS8rbMRaj8G40CDO2nlva8PNrm0XAmWnZIpkYJaV9TSX6B2T3Wis3ayFr3a5rLJf4xw-6D-46OMNWyxNzbR5iCUTEShqiDhfAL14fC5SVWtBxf21nxzmPRLxRnYqym4SL5f02prwFXrkcKMrnawTTP6vEPlXcvJdjy6_Ri3qwxjxnZ_fg">social media post </a>by the Phillips County Sheriff's Office.

At approximately 4:15 p.m. the Phillips County Sheriff's Office, assisted by the Rooks County Sheriff's Office, executed a search warrant at 107 F Street in Phillipsburg.

Shannon L. Plummer, 45, Phillipsburg, was taken into custody with charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp. She remains in custody pending bail.

All persons involved are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581590290264.jpeg" alt="Shannon Plummer&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shannon Plummer&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleasePHILLIPSBURG - A Phillipsburg woman was arrested late Wednesday afternoon on charges of drug possession, according to a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/plsoks/?__tn__=kC-R&amp;eid=ARC-yrTXN6A4MfI-PwjzdSJUIniwXBkXx2SzJOoSvg-eC5wm9YhqAikCtI7DPV7I3E_IqRB93xfZ0I58&amp;hc_ref=ARQPaWVnTAbT0-3_M_OptWTlLL9fY4F-UpbU6t4b-_JDerwuXEPJ2upQIfJv--YKgKA&amp;fref=nf&amp;__xts__[0]=68.ARCwla5HxTx2G8xJ4yqsiEjtwUOzGlBbqmx2t92R7IzO_O7lA3ohylQP6bx8-tP9VOCMA3yrqtJX4Js8mblqE2Gf1mX75LGnL69VO8DEvmgSegggiPEmZICg6XWTjgDjEn01ReDlAMDRDxn-Mw2gNoFmUivdtnDg7Qkj6xjAGSPP8XkWjSdd8qPrfPhN7i52ASiez70MZDGS8rbMRaj8G40CDO2nlva8PNrm0XAmWnZIpkYJaV9TSX6B2T3Wis3ayFr3a5rLJf4xw-6D-46OMNWyxNzbR5iCUTEShqiDhfAL14fC5SVWtBxf21nxzmPRLxRnYqym4SL5f02prwFXrkcKMrnawTTP6vEPlXcvJdjy6_Ri3qwxjxnZ_fg">social media post </a>by the Phillips County Sheriff's Office. At approximately 4:15 p.m. the Phillips County Sheriff's Office, assisted by the Rooks County Sheriff's Office, executed a search warrant at 107 F Street in Phillipsburg.Shannon L. Plummer, 45, Phillipsburg, was taken into custody with charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp. She remains in custody pending bail.Additional arrests are anticipated.All persons involved are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Phillipsburg woman arrested on drug charges

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 interim director of finance Keith Hall will be leaving the district on June 30 to take a position as high school principal and superintendent in the Thunder Ridge school district at Kensington.

Hall took over the interim role in Hays in January 2019. He applied for the role of superintendent in Hays upon the resignation of John Thissen. Ron Wilson was hired to assume that role.&nbsp;

Hall thanked the school board and district at Monday's school board meeting.

"The timing of this has been exceptional for me and my family, coming in here in January like that," Hall said. "It has been terrific. I cannot say enough good things about this district. ... I just want to get back into an environment I know and a neighborhood I know."

A search is underway to fill Hall's position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581522248254.jpeg" alt="Keith Hall" />
 <figcaption>Keith Hall</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 interim director of finance Keith Hall will be leaving the district on June 30 to take a position as high school principal and superintendent in the Thunder Ridge school district at Kensington.Hall took over the interim role in Hays in January 2019. He applied for the role of superintendent in Hays upon the resignation of John Thissen. Ron Wilson was hired to assume that role.&nbsp;Hall thanked the school board and district at Monday's school board meeting."The timing of this has been exceptional for me and my family, coming in here in January like that," Hall said. "It has been terrific. I cannot say enough good things about this district. ... I just want to get back into an environment I know and a neighborhood I know."A search is underway to fill Hall's position.

USD 489 finance director takes Thunder Ridge super job

After a high temperature in the low-40s arrives about 5 p.m. Wednesday, the mercury will nosedive, forecasters are predicting.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City said a mass of cold Arctic air from Canada will dive into Kansas by Thursday morning, pushing the temperature down to the low- to mid-teens. 

The wind chill could be near or below zero across western Kansas, with winds up to 25 mpg Wednesday night and 15 mph Thursday. A wind chill of -9 is predicted Thursday morning in Hays.

The freeze won't last long, however, as the temperature is expected to pop back up in the mid-40s by Friday and near the mid-50s by Saturday.

A Sunday high of 58 is projected, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581537420971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a high temperature in the low-40s arrives about 5 p.m. Wednesday, the mercury will nosedive, forecasters are predicting.The National Weather Service in Dodge City said a mass of cold Arctic air from Canada will dive into Kansas by Thursday morning, pushing the temperature down to the low- to mid-teens. The wind chill could be near or below zero across western Kansas, with winds up to 25 mpg Wednesday night and 15 mph Thursday. A wind chill of -9 is predicted Thursday morning in Hays.The freeze won't last long, however, as the temperature is expected to pop back up in the mid-40s by Friday and near the mid-50s by Saturday.A Sunday high of 58 is projected, the NWS said.

Wind chill of -9 predicted for Hays Thursday morning

ELLIS COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Wednesday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by&nbsp; Cindy Sue Conlon, 63, Newton, was westbound on Interstate 70 near Walker Avenue.

The Ford came around the curve, left the roadway, struck a cross over, went airborne and rolled once into the median.

Conlon and a passenger Caitlin Suzanne Conlon, 25, Newton, were transported to Hays Medical Center. They were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Wednesday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by&nbsp; Cindy Sue Conlon, 63, Newton, was westbound on Interstate 70 near Walker Avenue.The Ford came around the curve, left the roadway, struck a cross over, went airborne and rolled once into the median.Conlon and a passenger Caitlin Suzanne Conlon, 25, Newton, were transported to Hays Medical Center. They were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Two Kansas women hospitalized after violent I-70 crash

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2dfdbb7d7daa72b30ebcc1">To see photos and winners from the event visit the story on Hays Post&nbsp;by clicking here.</a>

<a href="https://hshponline.org/">To see the pets currently available for adoption visit the Humane Society of the High Plains website.</a>

<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="Record turnout for this year's Soup R' Bowl" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/mfe88-d3683a?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/5e2dfdbb7d7daa72b30ebcc1">To see photos and winners from the event visit the story on Hays Post&nbsp;by clicking here.</a><a href="https://hshponline.org/">To see the pets currently available for adoption visit the Humane Society of the High Plains website.</a>

🎤Post Podcast: Recent Soup R' Bowl has record attendance

GARDEN CITY - Republican Dr. Bill Clifford, an ophthalmologist, Finney County commissioner and former U.S.&nbsp;Air Force fighter pilot, announced his candidacy for Congress in September.

&nbsp;A graduate of&nbsp;Air Force fighter pilot,&nbsp;the U.S. Air Force Academy and the University of Southern California's Keck School of&nbsp;Medicine, Dr. Clifford has served patients in rural communities across western Kansas for 25&nbsp;years.

In addition to his service as a Finney County commissioner, he has also served as a&nbsp;Garden City Community College trustee, Kansas president of the Air Force Association,&nbsp;president of the Kansas Society of Eye Physicians &amp; Surgeons, and trustee of the American&nbsp;Academy of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Clifford and his wife, Jean, a member of the Kansas State Board of Education and an Air Force&nbsp;veteran herself, are the proud parents of six children, five of them adopted. 

A meet and greet reception will be held for Clifford 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Fort Hays State University Robbins Center. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581527070443.png" alt="Dr. Bill Clifford" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Bill Clifford</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseGARDEN CITY - Republican Dr. Bill Clifford, an ophthalmologist, Finney County commissioner and former U.S.&nbsp;Air Force fighter pilot, announced his candidacy for Congress in September.&nbsp;A graduate of&nbsp;Air Force fighter pilot,&nbsp;the U.S. Air Force Academy and the University of Southern California's Keck School of&nbsp;Medicine, Dr. Clifford has served patients in rural communities across western Kansas for 25&nbsp;years.In addition to his service as a Finney County commissioner, he has also served as a&nbsp;Garden City Community College trustee, Kansas president of the Air Force Association,&nbsp;president of the Kansas Society of Eye Physicians &amp; Surgeons, and trustee of the American&nbsp;Academy of Ophthalmology.Dr. Clifford and his wife, Jean, a member of the Kansas State Board of Education and an Air Force&nbsp;veteran herself, are the proud parents of six children, five of them adopted. The Cliffords live in&nbsp;Garden City.A meet and greet reception will be held for Clifford 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Fort Hays State University Robbins Center. &nbsp;

Congressional candidate Clifford in Hays on Monday

TREGO COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Semi driven by Wade McCoy, 37, Lavant,&nbsp; was eastbound on County Road B and failed to stop at the stop sign at Highway 283 

The vehicle collided with 2017 Ford F250 driven by Casey Cooper, 37, Hill City.

The semi's trailer began to overturn and disconnected from the power unit.&nbsp; The Ford overturned and landed upright in the east ditch.

EMS transported Cooper to Hays Medical Center. McCoy was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Semi driven by Wade McCoy, 37, Lavant,&nbsp; was eastbound on County Road B and failed to stop at the stop sign at Highway 283 The vehicle collided with 2017 Ford F250 driven by Casey Cooper, 37, Hill City.The semi's trailer began to overturn and disconnected from the power unit.&nbsp; The Ford overturned and landed upright in the east ditch.EMS transported Cooper to Hays Medical Center. McCoy was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Hill City man hospitalized after crash with a semi

Jade Artzer is flying high this year, and not just as a Fort Hays State University cheer squad flyer, one who stands on the base's shoulders during routines.

A management major from Goodland, Artzer won a national competition during her first semester at FHSU last fall. She gets to pursue one of her passions, cheering at Tiger home football and basketball games. And she continues to hone her entrepreneurship skills in her residence hall.

Artzer lives in Hansen Hall, a scholarship residence hall for entrepreneurial-minded students. It didn’t take long for the girl from rural western Kansas to impress fellow residents in Hansen.

For one, word spread fast in Hansen Hall that Artzer started her own business, a bread-making craft, at age 11. 

In a sound but difficult business decision, she sold her business, “Made by Jade,” to the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in Hays after she developed an allergy to flour in high school. 

The money from that business, coupled with several local scholarships, earned Artzer enough funding to pay for her first year and a half of college.

Then she used the life skills learned early in life to stand out at a national collegiate convention last fall in Tampa, Fla. Artzer teamed up with Dr. David Snow, then the director of entrepreneurship at FHSU, to win top honors in a simulated competition. Their business about a bicycle company beat out heavyweights University of Florida and Texas Christian University, ranked as some of the top business and entrepreneurship programs in the country.

FHSU’s entrepreneurship program is part of the reason Artzer chose to attend college at her mother’s alma mater.

Artzer passed through Hays often while growing up and attended high school athletic events there but had never been on the FHSU campus until her college visit early in her senior year in high school. She knew immediately once she stepped on campus that she would attend college just a couple of hours from home.

“It felt right,” Artzer said. “This is the right place for me. Fort Hays State has definitely opened a lot of doors for me already.”

She welcomes the challenge of adding entrepreneurship activities – a requirement of Hansen Hall residents – to her busy class schedule and already has plans to remain in Hays and work on campus this summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581369105321.jpeg" alt="Jade Artzer, Goodland, started her own bread-baking craft at age 11 and&nbsp; later sold her business to&nbsp;Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in&nbsp; downtown Hays." />
 <figcaption>Jade Artzer, Goodland, started her own bread-baking craft at age 11 and&nbsp; later sold her business to&nbsp;Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in&nbsp; downtown Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure><div>By DIANE GASPER-O'BRIEN FHSU University Relations</div>Jade Artzer is flying high this year, and not just as a Fort Hays State University cheer squad flyer, one who stands on the base's shoulders during routines.A management major from Goodland, Artzer won a national competition during her first semester at FHSU last fall. She gets to pursue one of her passions, cheering at Tiger home football and basketball games. And she continues to hone her entrepreneurship skills in her residence hall.Artzer lives in Hansen Hall, a scholarship residence hall for entrepreneurial-minded students. It didn’t take long for the girl from rural western Kansas to impress fellow residents in Hansen.For one, word spread fast in Hansen Hall that Artzer started her own business, a bread-making craft, at age 11. In a sound but difficult business decision, she sold her business, “Made by Jade,” to the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in Hays after she developed an allergy to flour in high school. The money from that business, coupled with several local scholarships, earned Artzer enough funding to pay for her first year and a half of college.Then she used the life skills learned early in life to stand out at a national collegiate convention last fall in Tampa, Fla. Artzer teamed up with Dr. David Snow, then the director of entrepreneurship at FHSU, to win top honors in a simulated competition. Their business about a bicycle company beat out heavyweights University of Florida and Texas Christian University, ranked as some of the top business and entrepreneurship programs in the country.FHSU’s entrepreneurship program is part of the reason Artzer chose to attend college at her mother’s alma mater.Artzer passed through Hays often while growing up and attended high school athletic events there but had never been on the FHSU campus until her college visit early in her senior year in high school. She knew immediately once she stepped on campus that she would attend college just a couple of hours from home.“It felt right,” Artzer said. “This is the right place for me. Fort Hays State has definitely opened a lot of doors for me already.”She welcomes the challenge of adding entrepreneurship activities – a requirement of Hansen Hall residents – to her busy class schedule and already has plans to remain in Hays and work on campus this summer.

FHSU, Hansen Hall mentality good fit for Goodland entrepreneur

O'Loughlin Principal Vicki Gile lead a tour of the school Monday for the Hays school board, highlighting infrastructure issues in the building.

O'Loughlin Elementary is nearing its 30th anniversary as an elementary school. However, the building itself is much older. It once served as a Marian High School, a Catholic girls school.&nbsp;

The tour began in the school's library, which Gile noted was once the Catholic school's chapel. The building retains the chapel's stained glass windows. However, after so many years, the windows are leaking.

The school has a small area to the east of the main library that has been carved out for technology instruction. However, Gile noted that space is not ideal. It is small and is partially open to the library.&nbsp;

Often there are classes in both the library and the technology area at the same time, and the space can get noisy, she said.&nbsp;

Gile has discussed with Buildings and Grounds Director Rusty Lindsay the possibility of closing off the technology portion of the space and making it a separate classroom area. However, Lindsay said redoing the HVAC to that area may be a problem.

Part of the area that was being used for technology was also taken up by two small offices that were built for the Reading Recovery and Title I teachers, who at one point had a full classroom.

O'Loughlin's enrollment this semester is 387 students — three sections of each grade, kindergarten through fifth. The enrollment last semester was as high as 393, but the school lost some students to transfers out of the district at Christmas break.

"I know they say the capacity of this building is such that we can handle that," Gile said, "but I will go ahead and explain why that is not a real ideal situation for optimum efficiency. Just moving around the building, 387 is really a high amount to have kids going in and out of the hallway at any given time."

As a former Catholic school, O'Loughlin was built in the shape of a cross. The gym, cafeteria and library are all along the west side of that cross. Gile said this hallway often becomes congested as children are passing between classes.

As the school has grown in enrollment, the school has had to expand its lunch service into the gym in addition to its dedicated cafeteria space.&nbsp;

The orchestra class has outgrown the school's music room. That class is now being conducted on the school's stage in the gym.

Unlike other schools in the district, O'Loughlin has separate dedicated music and art rooms. The teachers at the school also repurposed a work room into a teacher's lounge that they remodeled with volunteer labor.

The school is using a tunnel under the gym as a tornado shelter, but only between 200 and 250 students can fit in that space. The rest of the school is spread out across the school in inner rooms with no windows or skylights.

"It is probably not ideal if a tornado comes to locate everyone," Gile said.

O'Loughlin has a doorbell system at its entrance, but Gile said it is difficult for the school staff to see who they are buzzing into the building.&nbsp;

Traffic congestion on Hall Street is still an issue for O'Loughlin. Last week, a vehicle stopped for the school's crosswalk was rear-ended, Gile said.

O'Loughlin has issues with keeping rooms at comfortable temperatures. Rooms on the southwest side of the building tend to be hot becuase of the sunlight streaming in through the windows.

The boiler had a crack that had to be welded last fall.

"We have rooms that are too hot and too cold. It is just really inconsistent," Gile said.

Last year, one of the school's rooms was without heat for a month. The office was also without heat for six weeks.

One room on the southeast side of the school has to constantly keep towels underneath its windows, because they leak.

A few of the classrooms in O'Loughlin are larger than a typical district classrooms. These rooms were used as the Marian High School library and home economics rooms.

A downside of O'Loughlin being a former girls school is that there are far more girls bathrooms than boys bathrooms in the building. The boys bathroom space is about half of the girls, Gile said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457008096.jpeg" alt="School board members and guests toured O'Loughlin Elementary School during its meeting Monday." />
 <figcaption>School board members and guests toured O'Loughlin Elementary School during its meeting Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostO'Loughlin Principal Vicki Gile lead a tour of the school Monday for the Hays school board, highlighting infrastructure issues in the building.O'Loughlin Elementary is nearing its 30th anniversary as an elementary school. However, the building itself is much older. It once served as a Marian High School, a Catholic girls school.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457064100.jpeg" alt="O'Loughlin Principal Vicki Gile discusses the school's shared space for technology and its library." />
 <figcaption>O'Loughlin Principal Vicki Gile discusses the school's shared space for technology and its library.</figcaption>
 </figure>The tour began in the school's library, which Gile noted was once the Catholic school's chapel. The building retains the chapel's stained glass windows. However, after so many years, the windows are leaking.The school has a small area to the east of the main library that has been carved out for technology instruction. However, Gile noted that space is not ideal. It is small and is partially open to the library.&nbsp;Often there are classes in both the library and the technology area at the same time, and the space can get noisy, she said.&nbsp;Gile has discussed with Buildings and Grounds Director Rusty Lindsay the possibility of closing off the technology portion of the space and making it a separate classroom area. However, Lindsay said redoing the HVAC to that area may be a problem.Part of the area that was being used for technology was also taken up by two small offices that were built for the Reading Recovery and Title I teachers, who at one point had a full classroom.O'Loughlin's enrollment this semester is 387 students — three sections of each grade, kindergarten through fifth. The enrollment last semester was as high as 393, but the school lost some students to transfers out of the district at Christmas break."I know they say the capacity of this building is such that we can handle that," Gile said, "but I will go ahead and explain why that is not a real ideal situation for optimum efficiency. Just moving around the building, 387 is really a high amount to have kids going in and out of the hallway at any given time."As a former Catholic school, O'Loughlin was built in the shape of a cross. The gym, cafeteria and library are all along the west side of that cross. Gile said this hallway often becomes congested as children are passing between classes.As the school has grown in enrollment, the school has had to expand its lunch service into the gym in addition to its dedicated cafeteria space.&nbsp;The orchestra class has outgrown the school's music room. That class is now being conducted on the school's stage in the gym.Unlike other schools in the district, O'Loughlin has separate dedicated music and art rooms. The teachers at the school also repurposed a work room into a teacher's lounge that they remodeled with volunteer labor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457134591.jpeg" alt="Board members Tammy Wellbrock and Craig Pallister tour the O'Loughlin art room. O'Loughlin has both a dedicated art room and music room." />
 <figcaption>Board members Tammy Wellbrock and Craig Pallister tour the O'Loughlin art room. O'Loughlin has both a dedicated art room and music room.</figcaption>
 </figure>The school is using a tunnel under the gym as a tornado shelter, but only between 200 and 250 students can fit in that space. The rest of the school is spread out across the school in inner rooms with no windows or skylights."It is probably not ideal if a tornado comes to locate everyone," Gile said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457382195.jpeg" alt="O'Loughlin uses this tunnel underneath its gym stage as a tornado shelter. About 200 of the school's 387 students can fit in this space. The rest of the students and staff must shelter in interior rooms throughout the school." />
 <figcaption>O'Loughlin uses this tunnel underneath its gym stage as a tornado shelter. About 200 of the school's 387 students can fit in this space. The rest of the students and staff must shelter in interior rooms throughout the school.</figcaption>
 </figure>O'Loughlin has a doorbell system at its entrance, but Gile said it is difficult for the school staff to see who they are buzzing into the building.&nbsp;Traffic congestion on Hall Street is still an issue for O'Loughlin. Last week, a vehicle stopped for the school's crosswalk was rear-ended, Gile said.O'Loughlin has issues with keeping rooms at comfortable temperatures. Rooms on the southwest side of the building tend to be hot becuase of the sunlight streaming in through the windows.The boiler had a crack that had to be welded last fall."We have rooms that are too hot and too cold. It is just really inconsistent," Gile said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457571049.jpeg" alt="Board member Tammy Wellbrock discusses the HVAC system with Buildings and Grounds Director Rusty Lindsay in the O'Loughlin boiler room during a tour of the building Monday night." />
 <figcaption>Board member Tammy Wellbrock discusses the HVAC system with Buildings and Grounds Director Rusty Lindsay in the O'Loughlin boiler room during a tour of the building Monday night.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last year, one of the school's rooms was without heat for a month. The office was also without heat for six weeks.One room on the southeast side of the school has to constantly keep towels underneath its windows, because they leak.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457825773.jpeg" alt="The teacher for this classroom keeps towels under the windows at all times because the windows leak." />
 <figcaption>The teacher for this classroom keeps towels under the windows at all times because the windows leak.</figcaption>
 </figure>A few of the classrooms in O'Loughlin are larger than a typical district classrooms. These rooms were used as the Marian High School library and home economics rooms.A downside of O'Loughlin being a former girls school is that there are far more girls bathrooms than boys bathrooms in the building. The boys bathroom space is about half of the girls, Gile said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581457890066.jpeg" alt="The teacher in this classroom uses a cafeteria table as flexible seating. Children are encouraged to do hands-on projects and to work collaboratively, said Vicki Gile, O'Loughlin principal." />
 <figcaption>The teacher in this classroom uses a cafeteria table as flexible seating. Children are encouraged to do hands-on projects and to work collaboratively, said Vicki Gile, O'Loughlin principal.</figcaption>
 </figure>

O'Loughlin feels pain of growing enrollment, aging building

HUTCHINSON - The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center recently introduced the new class president for the 264th Basic Training Class, Deputy Lauren Tucker of the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Tucker began working for Rooks County in December and is excited to start her LEO career with ROSO after graduation. Prior to law enforcement, she owned/operated the farm she started with her husband in western Kansas.

Deputy Tucker said she is honored to be elected by the spectacular group of people in the 264 class.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581444344868.jpeg" alt="Deputy Lauren Tucker of the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Lauren Tucker of the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office</figcaption>
 </figure>KLETCHUTCHINSON - The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center recently introduced the new class president for the 264th Basic Training Class, Deputy Lauren Tucker of the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office.Deputy Tucker began working for Rooks County in December and is excited to start her LEO career with ROSO after graduation. Prior to law enforcement, she owned/operated the farm she started with her husband in western Kansas.Deputy Tucker said she is honored to be elected by the spectacular group of people in the 264 class.&nbsp;

Rooks Co. deputy is president of police academy class

By GREG DOERING, Kansas Farm Bureau

It’s tough to make a difference in this world, and it’s impossible to do so and remain comfortable. As American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall is fond of repeating the advice his father gave him: Making a difference requires you to get outside your fencerows.

No matter what difference you want to make, leaving your fencerow in the rearview mirror likely will have a bigger effect on you than anything else.

Mark Twain said it best in “Innocents Abroad” when he wrote, “Travel&nbsp;is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.”

I’ve been fortunate in my life to have had the opportunity to travel fairly frequently. Though one of my biggest regrets is quitting Spanish class after two years in high school. I’ve been to four countries where it’s the dominant language, yet I’m speechless after saying my name and a few pleasantries.

And while I’ve had some slight mishaps on a few journeys, including my recent jaunt to the AFBF Annual Convention in Austin, upon arrival, I’ve never had an unpleasant experience. I’ve been tired, lost and uncomfortable in my surroundings. I also survived and become a better person for it.

Travel also forges connections with those who are most like you. Now safely back on Kansas soil, I keep returning to two conversations with fellow Kansans in Austin.

“The toughest part is getting past the mailbox,” one said of the difficulty of getting away from his farm.

The other topic is true of both travel and growing older, generally. “I was surer of more things when I was younger,” another said. I agree. I used to have an answer for everything, and now it seems most of my sentences start with, “It depends …” or end with “that’s just my advice.”

That reminded me of Anthony Bourdain, chef and author turned professional vagabond, who said, “It seems that the more places I see and experience, the bigger I realize the world to be. The more I become aware of, the more I realize how relatively little I know of it, how many places I have still to go, how much more there is to learn.”

One thing I’m still certain of is getting outside your fencerow is difficult. There’s always one more thing that needs done or some other excuse not to leave. But the thing is you don’t have to go far – just a little beyond the mailbox to see something you haven’t seen before; experience something new; feel the uneasiness in your gut from venturing outside your comfort zone.

It means stepping up, speaking out and, quite possibly, becoming the center of attention, if only momentarily. It means experiencing new thoughts, new people and new places. Simply put, it means seeing, doing, traveling – growing.

That’s the real reason getting outside your fencerows is so incredibly valuable – it allows you to grow. Getting away makes you vulnerable. It makes you reliant on other. It makes you consider just how big the world is and just how small you are.

And yet everyday small, ordinary people leave their fencerows behind and change the world.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694508756.jpeg" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING, Kansas Farm BureauIt’s tough to make a difference in this world, and it’s impossible to do so and remain comfortable. As American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall is fond of repeating the advice his father gave him: Making a difference requires you to get outside your fencerows.No matter what difference you want to make, leaving your fencerow in the rearview mirror likely will have a bigger effect on you than anything else.Mark Twain said it best in “Innocents Abroad” when he wrote, “Travel&nbsp;is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.”I’ve been fortunate in my life to have had the opportunity to travel fairly frequently. Though one of my biggest regrets is quitting Spanish class after two years in high school. I’ve been to four countries where it’s the dominant language, yet I’m speechless after saying my name and a few pleasantries.And while I’ve had some slight mishaps on a few journeys, including my recent jaunt to the AFBF Annual Convention in Austin, upon arrival, I’ve never had an unpleasant experience. I’ve been tired, lost and uncomfortable in my surroundings. I also survived and become a better person for it.Travel also forges connections with those who are most like you. Now safely back on Kansas soil, I keep returning to two conversations with fellow Kansans in Austin.“The toughest part is getting past the mailbox,” one said of the difficulty of getting away from his farm.The other topic is true of both travel and growing older, generally. “I was surer of more things when I was younger,” another said. I agree. I used to have an answer for everything, and now it seems most of my sentences start with, “It depends …” or end with “that’s just my advice.”That reminded me of Anthony Bourdain, chef and author turned professional vagabond, who said, “It seems that the more places I see and experience, the bigger I realize the world to be. The more I become aware of, the more I realize how relatively little I know of it, how many places I have still to go, how much more there is to learn.”One thing I’m still certain of is getting outside your fencerow is difficult. There’s always one more thing that needs done or some other excuse not to leave. But the thing is you don’t have to go far – just a little beyond the mailbox to see something you haven’t seen before; experience something new; feel the uneasiness in your gut from venturing outside your comfort zone.It means stepping up, speaking out and, quite possibly, becoming the center of attention, if only momentarily. It means experiencing new thoughts, new people and new places. Simply put, it means seeing, doing, traveling – growing.That’s the real reason getting outside your fencerows is so incredibly valuable – it allows you to grow. Getting away makes you vulnerable. It makes you reliant on other. It makes you consider just how big the world is and just how small you are.And yet everyday small, ordinary people leave their fencerows behind and change the world."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Outside the fencerow

<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/2020/2/1581450038604.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;“How many bodies can you store in the cold rooms?”&nbsp; We faced this question over two decades ago as university personnel charged with disaster planning. I was in a biology department and one of the HAZMAT team. We were drafting a plan for handling a repeat of the influenza of 1918, a pandemic that took more lives on a daily basis than any other disease.

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;This specific question revealed that our local hospital would not have enough space in the morgue to accommodate the number of deaths. Our walk-in temperature-controlled rooms could take some of the overflow. The university would also close down. Students living nearby would be sent home. International and more distant domestic students would stay in the dorms and be supplied with food.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Our animal care and use committee would have to decide whether we would euthanize our laboratory mice or whether a staff member would take on the duty of caring for the animals. Otherwise, we would cease operating and “stand in place” in an attempt to prevent the spread of this flu virus strain if it returned.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Why are some types of flu mild while some are far more virulent? That takes learning some flu science and what the letters and numbers, such as AH5N1 and BH1N1, mean.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Influenza A viruses occur in other animals such as ducks, seals, chickens, pigs, whales, horses and cats. But influenza B viruses circulate only among humans. (There is a C virus that causes mild flu cases, and a D influenza only found in cattle.)&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Influenza A viruses are then grouped in subtypes based on differences in “H” and “N” proteins on the surface of the virus: hemagglutinin and neuraminidase. According to the CDC, “there are 18 different hemagglutinin subtypes and 11 different neuraminidase subtypes. All known subtypes of influenza A viruses have been found among birds, except subtype H17N10 and H18N11 which have only been found in bats. While it is unusual for people to get influenza infections directly from animals, sporadic human infections and outbreaks caused by certain avian influenza A viruses have been reported.”

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The 1918 flu pandemic was caused by an AH1N1 virus of avian origin. Despite the common name “Spanish flu,” it was first identified in soldiers at Fort Riley in Kansas. The CDC estimates “...about 500 million people or one-third of the world’s population became infected with this virus. The number of deaths was estimated to be at least 50 million worldwide with about 675,000 occurring in the United States.” Our crowded troop ships carried soldiers with this flu to Europe. At this time there were no anti-viral drugs—indeed viruses were not yet understood and a bacterium was suspected.

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Antibiotics would not be developed until World War II, and antibiotics are useless against viruses. The main defense against viruses are vaccines that stimulate our immune systems to form antibodies. If the virus does not rapidly evolve differences, as in the case of smallpox and polio, we can eliminate a virus by vaccination (successful with smallpox, still pending with polio).&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Unfortunately, influenza evolves rapidly and especially in highly populated cities. Each year there is an educated guess on which new influenza strains have arisen that will spread the following year. Again the CDC explains: “One influenza A(H1N1, one influenza A(H3N2, and one or two influenza B viruses (depending on the vaccine) are included in each season’s influenza vaccines. Getting a flu vaccine can protect against flu viruses that are like the viruses used to make vaccine.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;While everyone is focused on the Wuhan coronavirus, China’s Ministry of Agriculture just reported (February 1) an outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu at a farm in Hunan. 4,500 of the 7,850 chickens died of the bird flu. The remainder were destroyed and no humans contracted the flu. In 2013, another avian influenza A(H7N9) virus arose in China and caused 1,568 human infections. Approximately 39 percent of those who contracted it died, but it does not spread easily between people. The CDC states: “If it did, experts believe it could result in a pandemic with severity comparable to the 1918 pandemic.” The danger from a coronavirus or flu virus depends on how pathogenic it is (case-fatality rate, how easily it is spread human-to-human, how long a carrier is contagious, and whether carriers always present symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The willingness of the highly-crowded Chinese population to stay-in-place to control the spread of potentially pandemic viral diseases is simply not recognized by the Western people or press.&nbsp; Americans focus more on rights than responsibility. And American science education—and therefore public understanding—is abysmal by international standards.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Returning to the planning of a university shutdown in the face of a return of the 1918 flu strain, I asked about quarantine roadblocks. The answer was “no.” &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Americans want their freedom of movement. In this case: a freedom to die. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 
years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to 
China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State 
University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302270012.png" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;“How many bodies can you store in the cold rooms?”&nbsp; We faced this question over two decades ago as university personnel charged with disaster planning. I was in a biology department and one of the HAZMAT team. We were drafting a plan for handling a repeat of the influenza of 1918, a pandemic that took more lives on a daily basis than any other disease.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;This specific question revealed that our local hospital would not have enough space in the morgue to accommodate the number of deaths. Our walk-in temperature-controlled rooms could take some of the overflow. The university would also close down. Students living nearby would be sent home. International and more distant domestic students would stay in the dorms and be supplied with food.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Our animal care and use committee would have to decide whether we would euthanize our laboratory mice or whether a staff member would take on the duty of caring for the animals. Otherwise, we would cease operating and “stand in place” in an attempt to prevent the spread of this flu virus strain if it returned.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Why are some types of flu mild while some are far more virulent? That takes learning some flu science and what the letters and numbers, such as AH5N1 and BH1N1, mean.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Influenza A viruses occur in other animals such as ducks, seals, chickens, pigs, whales, horses and cats. But influenza B viruses circulate only among humans. (There is a C virus that causes mild flu cases, and a D influenza only found in cattle.)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Influenza A viruses are then grouped in subtypes based on differences in “H” and “N” proteins on the surface of the virus: hemagglutinin and neuraminidase. According to the CDC, “there are 18 different hemagglutinin subtypes and 11 different neuraminidase subtypes. All known subtypes of influenza A viruses have been found among birds, except subtype H17N10 and H18N11 which have only been found in bats. While it is unusual for people to get influenza infections directly from animals, sporadic human infections and outbreaks caused by certain avian influenza A viruses have been reported.”&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The 1918 flu pandemic was caused by an AH1N1 virus of avian origin. Despite the common name “Spanish flu,” it was first identified in soldiers at Fort Riley in Kansas. The CDC estimates “...about 500 million people or one-third of the world’s population became infected with this virus. The number of deaths was estimated to be at least 50 million worldwide with about 675,000 occurring in the United States.” Our crowded troop ships carried soldiers with this flu to Europe. At this time there were no anti-viral drugs—indeed viruses were not yet understood and a bacterium was suspected.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Antibiotics would not be developed until World War II, and antibiotics are useless against viruses. The main defense against viruses are vaccines that stimulate our immune systems to form antibodies. If the virus does not rapidly evolve differences, as in the case of smallpox and polio, we can eliminate a virus by vaccination (successful with smallpox, still pending with polio).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Unfortunately, influenza evolves rapidly and especially in highly populated cities. Each year there is an educated guess on which new influenza strains have arisen that will spread the following year. Again the CDC explains: “One influenza A(H1N1, one influenza A(H3N2, and one or two influenza B viruses (depending on the vaccine) are included in each season’s influenza vaccines. Getting a flu vaccine can protect against flu viruses that are like the viruses used to make vaccine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;While everyone is focused on the Wuhan coronavirus, China’s Ministry of Agriculture just reported (February 1) an outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu at a farm in Hunan. 4,500 of the 7,850 chickens died of the bird flu. The remainder were destroyed and no humans contracted the flu. In 2013, another avian influenza A(H7N9) virus arose in China and caused 1,568 human infections. Approximately 39 percent of those who contracted it died, but it does not spread easily between people. The CDC states: “If it did, experts believe it could result in a pandemic with severity comparable to the 1918 pandemic.” The danger from a coronavirus or flu virus depends on how pathogenic it is (case-fatality rate, how easily it is spread human-to-human, how long a carrier is contagious, and whether carriers always present symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The willingness of the highly-crowded Chinese population to stay-in-place to control the spread of potentially pandemic viral diseases is simply not recognized by the Western people or press.&nbsp; Americans focus more on rights than responsibility. And American science education—and therefore public understanding—is abysmal by international standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Returning to the planning of a university shutdown in the face of a return of the 1918 flu strain, I asked about quarantine roadblocks. The answer was “no.” &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Americans want their freedom of movement. In this case: a freedom to die. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 
years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to 
China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State 
University.

SCHROCK: Flu Virology 101

This time of year, anywhere there are hedge apple trees, also known as Osage Orange trees you will find piles of greenish-yellow hedge apple husks, deposited by squirrels chewing them apart to get to the many succulent seeds inside. 

In the 1880s before the invention of barbed wire, ranchers began planting Osage Orange trees as living livestock fences. The trees get their name from the Osage Indian tribe that lived near the trees native range in the Red River valley of southern Oklahoma and northern Texas, and from the citrus aroma emitted by the fruit. Osage Orange seedlings planted thickly together in rows and aggressively pruned soon grew into living fences that were “Horse high, bull strong and hog tight;” tall enough a horse couldn’t jump it, stout enough a bull couldn’t push through it and so dense a hog couldn’t penetrate it. Osage Orange trees have been planted in greater numbers than any other single tree species in North America.

The largest known living Osage Orange tree grows on River Farms in Alexandria, Virginia. The beast stands 54 feet tall and its branches span 90 feet. As firewood, dried hedge wood produces more BTU’s than any other wood. As fence posts, hedge wood provides more rot resistance without chemicals than any other wood. Osage Orange wood is also prized for making archery bows. One of the names given hedge wood by early explorers was bow wood, probably because they observed Osage Indians making bows from it. Although I could not confirm it, I found several references online to a guy in Americus KS. who makes harps from Osage Orange wood because “he believes it to be the most dimensionally stable of all woods when aged and placed under strain.”

However after all the praises are sung about the fine qualities of its wood, Osage Orange trees are best known for the annoying and seemingly useless fruit produced by the female trees. About the size of softballs and clothed in a thick, bright green, knobby husk (when first ripe) hedge apples are known by several other names: horse apples, hedge balls, monkey balls, green brains and mock oranges are the ones I know. As I noted above, squirrels love them for the seeds inside them, which by the way are NOT noxious to humans like I’ve always heard, but are said to be barely palatable, plus chemicals in the flesh can cause severe stomach irritation. Livestock can also eat them, but their sticky flesh is very dangerous for ruminants as it does not move well through their complicated digestive systems and easily becomes lodged, causing bloating and possible death. I confirmed that with our veterinarian Dr. Mark Handlin.

Many people swear by hedge apples for insect control, and say placing the ripe fruit under sinks, in closets etc. repels spiders, crickets and other pesky bugs, while naysayers believe the only way a hedge apple will kill or repel a spider is to drop it on the spider. One lady claims stuffing pieces of hedge apples down mole holes rids her yard of moles, and says it has worked for her neighbors too.&nbsp;

The most talked about and controversial use for hedge apples involves their alleged medicinal value. Studies have shown that hedge apple flesh does contain minor anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, but those properties are in very minute quantities. Other than that, no official studies have confirmed any positive medicinal values of hedge apples. However, many people continue to believe that hedge apples offer curative and healing value. The internet contains much information and many testimonials of hedge apples curing cancer. Many people dry them and process their flesh to make pills and tinctures to fight colds and to boost the immune system. Some people freeze the whole fruits then grate off a tablespoon of the outer husk to take with honey when they feel a cold coming on. Even though the sticky inner flesh of the hedge balls is said to irritate human skin, Iowa chemist and entrepreneur Todd Johnson’s company, Osage Healthcare buys hedgeapples and extracts their oil for use in making hair and skincare products. Another Iowa company called Moses Hedge Balls sells hedge balls, Osage Orange wood and product made from hedge apples called Hales Bug Repel. You can buy a dozen hedge apples from Moses for about $30. (talk about a markup!)&nbsp;

My mom used to slice hedge apples into ¼ inch slices then dry them slowly in the oven to make decorations strongly resembling sunflower blooms. We used to throw them at each other when we were kids and I learned to be quick on my feet cause’ those things hurt! If I had to choose between mom’s green willow switch to my bare legs or a hedge apple to the head, I might just opt for the green willow switch! For some reason Iowa seems to be a hotbed for hedge apple related research, companies and products, and after last week’s Iowa caucus circus, maybe Iowans should stick to hedge apples.&nbsp; One thing I do know; I’ll make you a better deal on a dozen hedge balls than Moses will.... Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>This time of year, anywhere there are hedge apple trees, also known as Osage Orange trees you will find piles of greenish-yellow hedge apple husks, deposited by squirrels chewing them apart to get to the many succulent seeds inside. In the 1880s before the invention of barbed wire, ranchers began planting Osage Orange trees as living livestock fences. The trees get their name from the Osage Indian tribe that lived near the trees native range in the Red River valley of southern Oklahoma and northern Texas, and from the citrus aroma emitted by the fruit. Osage Orange seedlings planted thickly together in rows and aggressively pruned soon grew into living fences that were “Horse high, bull strong and hog tight;” tall enough a horse couldn’t jump it, stout enough a bull couldn’t push through it and so dense a hog couldn’t penetrate it. Osage Orange trees have been planted in greater numbers than any other single tree species in North America.The largest known living Osage Orange tree grows on River Farms in Alexandria, Virginia. The beast stands 54 feet tall and its branches span 90 feet. As firewood, dried hedge wood produces more BTU’s than any other wood. As fence posts, hedge wood provides more rot resistance without chemicals than any other wood. Osage Orange wood is also prized for making archery bows. One of the names given hedge wood by early explorers was bow wood, probably because they observed Osage Indians making bows from it. Although I could not confirm it, I found several references online to a guy in Americus KS. who makes harps from Osage Orange wood because “he believes it to be the most dimensionally stable of all woods when aged and placed under strain.”However after all the praises are sung about the fine qualities of its wood, Osage Orange trees are best known for the annoying and seemingly useless fruit produced by the female trees. About the size of softballs and clothed in a thick, bright green, knobby husk (when first ripe) hedge apples are known by several other names: horse apples, hedge balls, monkey balls, green brains and mock oranges are the ones I know. As I noted above, squirrels love them for the seeds inside them, which by the way are NOT noxious to humans like I’ve always heard, but are said to be barely palatable, plus chemicals in the flesh can cause severe stomach irritation. Livestock can also eat them, but their sticky flesh is very dangerous for ruminants as it does not move well through their complicated digestive systems and easily becomes lodged, causing bloating and possible death. I confirmed that with our veterinarian Dr. Mark Handlin.Many people swear by hedge apples for insect control, and say placing the ripe fruit under sinks, in closets etc. repels spiders, crickets and other pesky bugs, while naysayers believe the only way a hedge apple will kill or repel a spider is to drop it on the spider. One lady claims stuffing pieces of hedge apples down mole holes rids her yard of moles, and says it has worked for her neighbors too.&nbsp;The most talked about and controversial use for hedge apples involves their alleged medicinal value. Studies have shown that hedge apple flesh does contain minor anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, but those properties are in very minute quantities. Other than that, no official studies have confirmed any positive medicinal values of hedge apples. However, many people continue to believe that hedge apples offer curative and healing value. The internet contains much information and many testimonials of hedge apples curing cancer. Many people dry them and process their flesh to make pills and tinctures to fight colds and to boost the immune system. Some people freeze the whole fruits then grate off a tablespoon of the outer husk to take with honey when they feel a cold coming on. Even though the sticky inner flesh of the hedge balls is said to irritate human skin, Iowa chemist and entrepreneur Todd Johnson’s company, Osage Healthcare buys hedgeapples and extracts their oil for use in making hair and skincare products. Another Iowa company called Moses Hedge Balls sells hedge balls, Osage Orange wood and product made from hedge apples called Hales Bug Repel. You can buy a dozen hedge apples from Moses for about $30. (talk about a markup!)&nbsp;My mom used to slice hedge apples into ¼ inch slices then dry them slowly in the oven to make decorations strongly resembling sunflower blooms. We used to throw them at each other when we were kids and I learned to be quick on my feet cause’ those things hurt! If I had to choose between mom’s green willow switch to my bare legs or a hedge apple to the head, I might just opt for the green willow switch! For some reason Iowa seems to be a hotbed for hedge apple related research, companies and products, and after last week’s Iowa caucus circus, maybe Iowans should stick to hedge apples.&nbsp; One thing I do know; I’ll make you a better deal on a dozen hedge balls than Moses will.... Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inmanm, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Behold the lowly hedge apple

First a correction from last week. In my haste to get the column done quickly, I errored and identified Callie Ragsdale as Allie, she was a regional award winner of the “If I were Mayor” competition. She is a student at Phillipsburg Middle School and literally my neighbor and extended family. I do apologize for the mistake.

Over the weekend, I was one of the participants in a Town Hall, sponsored by the Hays Chamber. There was a good crowd and several issues were discussed. 

Later, on Saturday, I was honored to serve as M.C. for the Hope in the Heartland symposium sponsored by High Plains Mental Health. It was an opportunity to learn about services available and what other states are doing in helping those in farming and ranching that are experiencing stress and being an encourager and listener. The state of Kansas has a web page to help fight ag related stress at <a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/">www.KansasAgStress.org</a> or you can check out the web site of High Plains Mental Health Center at <a href="http://hpmhc.com/">www.hpmhc.com</a>.

Last week was one of celebration and contemplation. Basking in the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory, many wanted to attend the parade in downtown Kansas City, so in a rare move, the house and senate joined many Kansas City area schools and gave students and employees the opportunity to attend the events. I am very happy that Smith County native Mitch Holthus is the “Voice of the Chiefs” and you will find no greater ambassador for the Chiefs and our region of the nation than Mitch.

Late last week the house took up SCR 1613, the Value Them Both amendment to the Kansas Constitution. It failed on a vote of 80-43, you may say, it looks like is passed with a large majority. While it did, it needed 84 votes for a 2/3 majority to send it to you the voters. I was one that voted in the affirmative and will do it again. The amount of misinformation and tactics used to keep it from ultimately decided by the voters of Kansas was disappointing to experience.

 This issue will be brought up again before the session ends, and please keep in mind, the legislature is not making new law or changing the constitution regarding abortion in the state. It is wanting to give us, the people, the change to vote on it in the next election which is August. Bottom Line, the Value Them Both amendment will be voted on again this session and I will do my part to give you the opportunity to vote for Kansas to remain a strong pro-life state.

It was good to see many folks from home including Errol Wertz from Hays, Phillips County Treasurer Bret Derr and Nick Poels, Phillips County Economic Development Director as they were all here for meetings and to meet up with legislators.

When you come to Topeka during the session, my office is located in Room: 149-S. My phone number is (785) 296-7463 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416. More updates at <a href="https://kenforkansas.com/">kenforkansas.com</a>.

I look forward to seeing you around the 110th District. It is my honor to be your representative.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581437228209.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes (R-Agra, 110th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes (R-Agra, 110th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hello from Topeka. First a correction from last week. In my haste to get the column done quickly, I errored and identified Callie Ragsdale as Allie, she was a regional award winner of the “If I were Mayor” competition. She is a student at Phillipsburg Middle School and literally my neighbor and extended family. I do apologize for the mistake.Over the weekend, I was one of the participants in a Town Hall, sponsored by the Hays Chamber. There was a good crowd and several issues were discussed. Later, on Saturday, I was honored to serve as M.C. for the Hope in the Heartland symposium sponsored by High Plains Mental Health. It was an opportunity to learn about services available and what other states are doing in helping those in farming and ranching that are experiencing stress and being an encourager and listener. The state of Kansas has a web page to help fight ag related stress at <a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/">www.KansasAgStress.org</a> or you can check out the web site of High Plains Mental Health Center at <a href="http://hpmhc.com/">www.hpmhc.com</a>.Last week was one of celebration and contemplation. Basking in the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory, many wanted to attend the parade in downtown Kansas City, so in a rare move, the house and senate joined many Kansas City area schools and gave students and employees the opportunity to attend the events. I am very happy that Smith County native Mitch Holthus is the “Voice of the Chiefs” and you will find no greater ambassador for the Chiefs and our region of the nation than Mitch.Late last week the house took up SCR 1613, the Value Them Both amendment to the Kansas Constitution. It failed on a vote of 80-43, you may say, it looks like is passed with a large majority. While it did, it needed 84 votes for a 2/3 majority to send it to you the voters. I was one that voted in the affirmative and will do it again. The amount of misinformation and tactics used to keep it from ultimately decided by the voters of Kansas was disappointing to experience. This issue will be brought up again before the session ends, and please keep in mind, the legislature is not making new law or changing the constitution regarding abortion in the state. It is wanting to give us, the people, the change to vote on it in the next election which is August. Bottom Line, the Value Them Both amendment will be voted on again this session and I will do my part to give you the opportunity to vote for Kansas to remain a strong pro-life state.It was good to see many folks from home including Errol Wertz from Hays, Phillips County Treasurer Bret Derr and Nick Poels, Phillips County Economic Development Director as they were all here for meetings and to meet up with legislators.When you come to Topeka during the session, my office is located in Room: 149-S. My phone number is (785) 296-7463 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416. More updates at <a href="https://kenforkansas.com/">kenforkansas.com</a>.I look forward to seeing you around the 110th District. It is my honor to be your representative.

RAHJES REPORT: Feb. 12

The Hays school board unanimously voted to approved a contract with teachers at its meeting Monday night.

Teachers have been working under their 2018-19 contract since July 1 after the school board and Hays NEA were unable to come to a contract agreement.&nbsp;

A federal mediator was brought in and the two sides ultimately went to fact finding.

At issue was the district's move from a state-run Blue Cross Blue Shield plan to a plan administered by Aetna. Although the plan saved the district money, teachers complained of higher deductibles and issues with service.

The agreement has the district remaining with Aetna through the end of this contract year, which ends June 30.

The district also has made a move to establish a set amount it will pay toward family insurance plans. The agreement has the district paying the full amount for a single plan, but limiting its payment for dependent and family plans to $1,050 per month starting July 1, 2020.

On salary, the agreement stipulates a $1,900 per year addition to base pay plus horizontal and vertical movement on the salary schedule.

The pay increases will be retroactive to the beginning of the school fiscal year, which was July 1, 2019. The pay adjustments will be on teachers' paychecks as of March.

Teachers voted on the contract on Feb. 5, approving it on a vote of 203-11.

In an email Tuesday morning, Kim Schneweis, Hays NEA president, said, "We are happy to finally come to an agreement for this year's contract."

School board President Mike Walker said Monday night, "I am very happy that we did reach an agreement. It was a long road. I think we made some progress in areas that we will be able to continue into the next round of negotiations.&nbsp;

"I am happy that is over with after our vote today."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581437767315.jpeg" alt="The Hays USD 489 school board approved teacher contracts and a wage increase for classified and administrators at its meeting on Monday." />
 <figcaption>The Hays USD 489 school board approved teacher contracts and a wage increase for classified and administrators at its meeting on Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board unanimously voted to approved a contract with teachers at its meeting Monday night.Teachers have been working under their 2018-19 contract since July 1 after the school board and Hays NEA were unable to come to a contract agreement.&nbsp;A federal mediator was brought in and the two sides ultimately went to fact finding.At issue was the district's move from a state-run Blue Cross Blue Shield plan to a plan administered by Aetna. Although the plan saved the district money, teachers complained of higher deductibles and issues with service.The agreement has the district remaining with Aetna through the end of this contract year, which ends June 30.The district also has made a move to establish a set amount it will pay toward family insurance plans. The agreement has the district paying the full amount for a single plan, but limiting its payment for dependent and family plans to $1,050 per month starting July 1, 2020.On salary, the agreement stipulates a $1,900 per year addition to base pay plus horizontal and vertical movement on the salary schedule.The pay increases will be retroactive to the beginning of the school fiscal year, which was July 1, 2019. The pay adjustments will be on teachers' paychecks as of March.Teachers voted on the contract on Feb. 5, approving it on a vote of 203-11.In an email Tuesday morning, Kim Schneweis, Hays NEA president, said, "We are happy to finally come to an agreement for this year's contract."School board President Mike Walker said Monday night, "I am very happy that we did reach an agreement. It was a long road. I think we made some progress in areas that we will be able to continue into the next round of negotiations.&nbsp;"I am happy that is over with after our vote today."The board also approved a 4.9 percent pay increase for classified staff and administrators, which is roughly equal to the raise being received by the teachers.Keith Hall, interim director of finance, said the percentage of the pay increase for classified staff and administrators was calculated after the agreement was reached with teachers.Board member Sophia Rose Young said she was initially hesitant to approve the classified/administrator raise Monday night, saying she wanted more time to look at the numbers."I haven't seen the percentage yet. I think it is a shock," she said. "I have been seeing it as a number this whole time. Five percent is a nice raise for everyone. I am happy for everyone. I feel good about giving everyone a 5 percent raise."Young ultimately voted in favor of the pay raise.Board member Craig Pallister said, "I hope this does not reflect that the classified and administrators don't deserve the same percent raise because I feel strongly that the classified and administrators and the teachers are all a team that work together and we are not trying to single any certain groups out."

Local