<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575905482441.png">This fall, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) surpassed one million total members who have joined the organization since its founding in 1890. The DAR is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. The Courtney Spalding DAR Chapter has welcomed more than 150 members since the chapter began in 1926. Tamera (Tammy) Walker, inducted at the November 16th meeting, is the chapter’s first member with a number over one million.&nbsp;Courtney Spalding is excited to join the National Society in celebrating this milestone by spotlighting members of the chapter through the years. Throughout Courtney Spalding’s 93-year history, its membership has included many remarkable women from the local community.&nbsp; Geneva Herndon, who began the speech pathology program at Fort Hays State University and for whom the FHSU speech-language-hearing clinic is named, was a member and served as regent of the Courtney Spalding Chapter from 1971-74.Marianna Kistler Beach was awarded the prestigious DAR Medal of Honor for her charitable works locally, nationally and internationally. Beach later joined the organization, and her daughter, Terry Edwards of Hutchinson, is also a member of the Courtney Spalding Chapter. Three generations of Courtney Spalding member Donna Schmidt’s family are members. Two daughters and five granddaughters are Courtney Spalding members, and two sons are members of the Sons of the American Revolution. Schmidt said she joined as soon as she found out she qualified. Then she thought she “might as well get everybody in.”&nbsp; These are just three of the one million women who have joined DAR since 1890. Each DAR member has a unique story, but all share a passion for historic preservation, education and patriotism and a dedication to her local community. The Courtney Spalding DAR Chapter focuses much of its efforts on veterans’ projects. If you are interested in learning more about DAR membership, contact membership chair Bunnie Bowen, <a href="mailto:bunniebowen@aol.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bunniebowen@aol.com</a> or (785) 259-2401.

Local DAR chapter celebrates membership milestone

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575904358712.png">By KIM BALDWINMcPherson&nbsp;County farmer and rancher The countdown for Christmas officially has begun in our house. This year, aside from a little felt Advent calendar we hang on a door to help the kids understand how many days are left until Christmas, we also added two chocolate Advent calendars — one for my son and one for my daughter. We figured it’d be easier to maintain the peace by giving them each their own calendar and allow them to enjoy their own candy each day as we prepare for Christmas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our farm dog Rosie is a whip-smart Australian Shepherd. She’s a good dog, but sometimes she can get herself into some interesting situations.&nbsp;My daughter and I recently came home to find Rosie had let herself into the house after my son and husband had walked out to a nearby shed. They had left the backdoor open and Rosie seized the opportunity to go inside.&nbsp;&nbsp;As my daughter and I opened the door, Rosie happily greeted us. I immediately wondered what she had gotten into this time. Because when Rosie gets into the house and is unattended, she can get herself into some trouble.&nbsp;In the past, she has rummaged through my daughter’s room and taken stuffed animals to claim as her own. She has picked up my son’s dirty socks and added them to her collection. She has devoured loaves of bread and destroyed the bags, leaving the evidence scattered throughout the house. She has shredded cereal boxes and eaten all of the contents. Afterward she’ll either let herself out the door she came in or takes a break and relaxes on the couch until her humans arrive to discover the path of destruction she has created.&nbsp;This time Rosie had found the trashcan. As I was cleaning up that mess in the kitchen, my daughter yelled from the living room, “Christmas is ruined!”&nbsp;&nbsp;Rosie had discovered my daughter’s chocolate Advent calendar and then thoroughly destroyed it and ate the vast majority of its contents.&nbsp;As I was trying to calm my hysterical 4-year-old who had now decided that Rosie’s act had not just ruined Christmas but officially canceled it, the boys returned home.&nbsp;My son helped pick up the cardboard and plastic pieces and then came into the kitchen to reassure his little sister that everything would be OK, and Christmas would indeed still happen. He then brought his untouched calendar over to his sniffling little sister, opened his paper door, took out the small piece of chocolate, carefully bit it in half and offered it to his sister.&nbsp;&nbsp;As my 4- and 7-year-old sat side by side, slowly eating their tiny pieces of chocolate, I couldn’t help but think that this was a profound moment on my son’s part. He recognized that his sister — who loves candy — would not be able to enjoy her chocolate because she no longer had any. He recognized that he had something that he could share, and he took action to ensure his sister could still experience the anticipation of Christmas.&nbsp; May we not get overwhelmed this holiday season with events that might appear to alter the holidays. And may we recognize times where we can all provide loving acts that illustrate the spirit of giving. "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: A spirit of giving

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

The certified public accounting firm of Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, Chartered recently announced the addition of Marissa Lambert to their professional team.&nbsp;

Lambert joins the firm’s Hays office as a staff accountant. A professional in the field since 2013, she previously served in the private accounting sector.&nbsp;

“We’re excited for Marissa to use her experience to serve our clients and look forward to witnessing her continued development as an accounting professional,"&nbsp; said Brian Staats, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of ABBB.&nbsp;

A 2013 graduate of Fort Hays State University, Lambert earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.&nbsp; She currently lives in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;

Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, Chartered provides a wide range of traditional and non-traditional CPA and consulting services to clients throughout Kansas, including agriculture organizations, construction companies, feed yards, financial institutions, governmental and not-for-profit organizations, manufacturers, medical practices, oil and gas companies, professional service firms, real estate companies and small businesses. Founded in 1945, today the firm maintains 13 office locations throughout the state. For more information about Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, please visit <a href="http://www.abbb.com/" target="_blank">www.abbb.com</a>.&nbsp;

The certified public accounting firm of Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, Chartered recently announced the addition of Marissa Lambert to their professional team.&nbsp;Lambert joins the firm’s Hays office as a staff accountant. A professional in the field since 2013, she previously served in the private accounting sector.&nbsp;“We’re excited for Marissa to use her experience to serve our clients and look forward to witnessing her continued development as an accounting professional,"&nbsp; said Brian Staats, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of ABBB.&nbsp;A 2013 graduate of Fort Hays State University, Lambert earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.&nbsp; She currently lives in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, Chartered provides a wide range of traditional and non-traditional CPA and consulting services to clients throughout Kansas, including agriculture organizations, construction companies, feed yards, financial institutions, governmental and not-for-profit organizations, manufacturers, medical practices, oil and gas companies, professional service firms, real estate companies and small businesses. Founded in 1945, today the firm maintains 13 office locations throughout the state. For more information about Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, please visit <a href="http://www.abbb.com/" target="_blank">www.abbb.com</a>.&nbsp;

Fort Hays State grad joins ABBB

SHERMAN COUNTY — One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday in Sherman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Kenworth semi driven by Richard H. Steed, 42, Afton, OH.,&nbsp;was northbound on&nbsp; Kansas 27 ten miles north of Goodland.

The semi traveled left of center and collided with a 2007 Chevy Uplander driven by Shirley A. Barnhart, 75, Goodland, and tipped over onto its passenger side in the west ditch.

EMS transported Steed and Barnhart to the hospital in Goodland where she died.&nbsp;

Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

SHERMAN COUNTY — One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday in Sherman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Kenworth semi driven by Richard H. Steed, 42, Afton, OH.,&nbsp;was northbound on&nbsp; Kansas 27 ten miles north of Goodland.The semi traveled left of center and collided with a 2007 Chevy Uplander driven by Shirley A. Barnhart, 75, Goodland, and tipped over onto its passenger side in the west ditch.EMS transported Steed and Barnhart to the hospital in Goodland where she died.&nbsp;Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas woman dies after crash with a semi

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12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Day Seven!

Dine Out Day for Kids benefits Hays ARC Park

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575654926148.jpeg">A screenshot of the new USD 489 website at <a href="https://www.usd489.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">https://www.usd489.com/</a>. The district has also launched a new app for Android and Apple devices. By CRISTINA JANNEYHays Post Hays USD 489 launched a new app and website last week, which Superintendent Ron Wilson said he hopes will make it easier for the district to share its story. The new website and app has a series of live feeds as well as easily accessible lunch menus and calendars. Parents can also sign up for notifications from the school district through the app. "It gives us a better chance to share our school's identity," Wilson said. The website also has space for large photos of students in action or for graphics with announcements about happenings at schools across USD 489. "We have lots of stories of student achievement happening in our classrooms, stadiums, gymnasiums and auditoriums every day. With these, we now have teachers who can quickly snap a photo and put a small caption. Boom, that is immediately fed to our live feed on our website and our Twitter account and our Facebook accounts. "We are sharing our stories and advocating for our schools." <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575655169119.jpeg">A screenshot of the Wilson Elementary School page on the new website. You still be able to access the same documents and general information on the website as you have before. The new website can be found at <a href="https://www.usd489.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.usd489.com/</a>. If you have bookmarked the old site, that link is broken. You will need to bookmark the new site, Wilson said. The app is available for both Apple and Android operating systems and can be downloaded for free from the Apple Store or Google Play. "With the app availability," Wilson said. "It allows people to get on there instantaneous and not have to get to their home computer or their office computer to check out what we're about." Jess Reling, USD 489 board clerk, noted the new website is ADA accessible. Someone with visual impairment can use adaptive technology to have the site read to them. The old website was not set up to be used with adaptive technology. The district's website had not been updated in years, and the district had no app. Wilson said updating the website was one of his first goals when joining the school district earlier this year. The district was hosting its own website. Now it is paying $5,000 per year to Apptegy to host the website. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575655431261.jpeg">

Hays USD 489 launches new website, app

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573590596307.png">That neat <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5de95fa9950c9f4854f75469" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs “Kansas Speaks” poll</a>, which sprang out of Fort Hays State University last week, felt about right, didn’t it?The 352 adult telephone-owners who participated in that poll generally found Kansas a good place to live—the state economy is generally good and getting better since Democrat Gov. Laura Kelly moved into Cedar Crest, the governor’s mansion, the majority said.But…that poll which asked so many questions we have to wonder whether those taking the survey on their cell phones were checking battery levels about halfway through…also for political insiders the poll probably created some negotiating room on major issues coming up next legislative session.Take an obvious question—expanding Medicaid, bringing 90 percent federal/10 percent state funded health care to about 130,000 people in the state who don’t have health-care coverage. Some 66 percent of those respondents say it would help rural hospitals, and 60 percent said those without health coverage “deserve this benefit from the state.”Now, that’s a pretty strong level of support. But that strong support also makes it a debatable legislative issue. That’s Statehouse talk for if the program is that popular with a majority of Kansans, what can folks who aren’t fans of the expansion add to it and still see it passed into law? Remember, at some point the bill – one simple, straight-forward bill was introduced last week by Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley, D-Topeka, that is virtually identical to a measure passed 69-54 by the House last session and ignored by the Senate—will move into a conference committee.That conference committee will negotiate over provisions so that both chambers will vote on an identical down-to-the-last-word bill. The conference committee? Three House and three Senate members—four Republicans and two Democrats—and it’s there that the Kansas-specific Medicaid expansion bill will be written.So…it comes down to just what expansion supporters will accept for that final report. New work requirements? A $1 a pack hike on cigarette taxes? Or other limits on eligibility? That 60 percent plus of poll respondents aren’t likely to know about those provisions that conservative Republicans who will probably be needed to pass the measure want…they just hear Medicaid expansion and are happy.See the negotiation room handed to conservatives who aren’t fans of Medicaid?And, what if a heavily amended bill does get to the House and Senate and is so cluttered with conservative amendments that while the Legislature which stands for re-election next year will pass it, Kelly vetoes it? Imagine that. A governor who calls expansion her No. 1 priority has to veto a bill that includes that priority but which picked up objectionable provisions that she can’t allow to become law.Do Democrats who support expansion have to override her veto? Vote against their party’s governor? Explain that to their party’s supporters?For those who aren’t fans of Medicaid expansion, they could&nbsp;put the governor in a tough position that will resound through the remainder of her first term and possibly into a decision on whether to seek a second term in Republican-majority Kansas.It’s one thing to read those polls and not see deep into the bowels of the Statehouse how public opinion can be nudged, pushed, detoured into results that while sounding poll-respondent, actually aren’t.And yes, we’re wondering just how lawmakers will try to look poll-friendly even when the politics under the dome require them to accept amendments, or trade votes on issues.Oh, and there are tax issues, spending issues, immigration and a gamut of others that the poll showed Kansans support. Wonder how those poll results will become yet another bargaining chip under the dome?&nbsp;&nbsp;Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(149, 79, 114);">www.hawvernews.com</a>

HAWVER: Poll results create room for negotiations in Kan. Statehouse

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575665019096.jpeg">DSNWK Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas announce last week the Esther McMurtrie Memorial Golf Tournament raised approximately $9,800. The 4-person scramble tournament was held on Friday, Aug. 3, at the Ellis Golf Club. Proceeds are being used to benefit DSNWK group homes Hays. "DSNWK would like to thank the many participants, contributors and supporters who made the event a success," the organization said in a news release. DSNWK serves people with developmental disabilities in the 18 counties of northwest Kansas.

Golf tourney raises funds for DSNWK group homes

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png">Deer rifle season began here in Kansas last Wednesday and I’ve put-off penning this week’s column hoping for a deer hunting story to tell. Alas, no deer or deer story yet, but each year this experience brings back memories of deer hunts from my past, some when deer were successfully harvested and some when they weren’t. I try not to use the term “unsuccessful” by itself when it comes to any outdoor adventure, because there is always something to enjoy in God’s outdoors, whether or not game is harvested. Just yesterday I watched a northern harrier (hawk) hunt patches of weeds and CRP around our blind. Harriers hunt low and slow, gliding and rocking back and forth mere feet above the vegetation, attempting to scare rodents concealed below into giving up their hiding places. That particular northern harrier dropped suddenly to the ground numerous times but always came away “empty-clawed;” maybe it was inexperienced or maybe it was just having an “off” day of hunting (I can relate.) As a high school kid in Ohio, I learned to hunt deer from a group of local farmers and land owners who always hunted together a few times each season. They were a diverse and colorful lot; there were a couple farmers, a couple factory workers, a local cop, an older couple who were both on disability and squabbled the entire time, them my little brother Joe and I. The preferred method of hunting Ohio farm country deer back then was surrounding a section of land with several hunters, then sending others to walk through and drive the deer toward the shooters; not real sporting, but effective. The only allowed weapon in Ohio in those days was a shotgun shooting rifled slugs. Unless you owned a shotgun with a special “rifled” barrel, they were not very accurate at any distance. Dave Burt was the cop in the group and his kitchen windows overlooked my patch of woods and other good nearby deer habitat, so his kitchen table often became ground zero for morning deer hunts. Dave had eyes like a hawk and it was inevitable that as we sat around his table drinking coffee and cocoa, he would spot a deer. Coffee cups would roll and chairs would spin as hunting coats were snatched from chair backs as we all ran for the pickups. Neither Joe or I ever shot a deer when hunting with that crew, but Joe harvested his first deer before I did, and I’ll never forget my reaction (of which I’m not proud.) I had purchased our 150 acre farm from dad and lived by myself on the farm after our folks built a new home nearby. I was in the National Guard and as I remember it, I came home one Saturday evening from our monthly guard drill to find a nice buck hanging in the open doorway of my barn. Joe had shot it along the woods on my farm, and I believe I asked him where he planned to hunt from then on. Joe now lives smack-dab in the middle of 200 acres of pristine deer habitat in southeastern Ohio. He is by far the better deer hunter, and he, his wife, his kids and grandkids take half a dozen deer there every season. In fact, he just helped his youngest 8-year-old grandson harvest his first Ohio whitetail. Today, Joe and I would be the seniors in that hunting group if we still lived there, and we would be mentoring future deer hunters like those guys mentored us. Joe and my other siblings have done a crack job of keeping the outdoor spirit alive in their families; our grandfather, the original giver of that spirit would be proud. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors! Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Keepers of the outdoor spirit

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

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This week I spent some time exploring the origins of the word, kind: It comes from Old English gecynd (YEH’-kund) or cynn (kyn, meaning nature, race, family. Another Old English word kyndnes (KIND’-nes) means “nation,” which I interpret as a subtle and ancient nod toward kin, kinship and our common bond in support of our country. Modern dictionaries define the word kindness as the quality or state of being generous, helpful, caring and giving. Synonyms include tactful, good hearted, neighborly, forgiving and gracious.&nbsp;

Sometimes I only understand something when I explore it’s opposite or antonym. For example, I had to think about mental illness to better understand mental health; about hate to better understand love; about depression to better understand joy. The antonyms of kindness are words like mean, cruel, malicious, spiteful, malevolent, even despicable.&nbsp;

Where is the intersection of kindness and medicine? In years past, admission committees for medical school have searched hard to find the very smartest college graduates and they were able to do it. Certainly, physicians need the intellect to understand the complexity of human health and continue a lifetime of learning. However, we have realized that searching for students by intellect alone might graduate medical students who don’t always develop good bedside manners and a capacity for compassion. More recently, some of the best medical schools have added kindness and compassion programs to their curriculum.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I didn’t have the benefit of such a program when I went to medical school, however, over my 40-year medical career, I’ve learned to recognize the healing power of kindness in medicine. I’ve seen it in the nursing staff caring for folks living in a small-town long-term care facility. I’ve heard it from medical providers, nurses and technicians caring for people in clinics, ERs, hospitals and in hospice programs. I’ve heard it from kind supportive friends who have offered or driven me for chemo; from jolly laughing buddies who raise my mood; from my care team as they gently hook me up for my next infusion; from our kids who call to check on me; and from my loving wife who is at my side warming me when I’m chilled, picking up my burdens with unending daily kindnesses as I struggle through these side-affects. It’s a good thing she doesn’t love me for my hair.

I am happy that our medical schools are teaching young doctors that people deal with illness so much better when it comes with a generous dose of kindness.&nbsp;

Richard P. Holm, MD is founder of The Prairie Doc® and author of “Life’s Final Season, A Guide for Aging and Dying with Grace” available on Amazon. For free and easy access to the entire Prairie Doc® library, visit <a href="http://www.prairiedoc.org/" target="_blank">www.prairiedoc.org</a> and follow Prairie Doc® on Facebook, featuring On Call with the Prairie Doc® a medical Q&amp;A show streamed most Thursdays at 7 p.m. central.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565966623908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RICHARD P. HOLM, MDThis week I spent some time exploring the origins of the word, kind: It comes from Old English gecynd (YEH’-kund) or cynn (kyn, meaning nature, race, family. Another Old English word kyndnes (KIND’-nes) means “nation,” which I interpret as a subtle and ancient nod toward kin, kinship and our common bond in support of our country. Modern dictionaries define the word kindness as the quality or state of being generous, helpful, caring and giving. Synonyms include tactful, good hearted, neighborly, forgiving and gracious.&nbsp;Sometimes I only understand something when I explore it’s opposite or antonym. For example, I had to think about mental illness to better understand mental health; about hate to better understand love; about depression to better understand joy. The antonyms of kindness are words like mean, cruel, malicious, spiteful, malevolent, even despicable.&nbsp;Where is the intersection of kindness and medicine? In years past, admission committees for medical school have searched hard to find the very smartest college graduates and they were able to do it. Certainly, physicians need the intellect to understand the complexity of human health and continue a lifetime of learning. However, we have realized that searching for students by intellect alone might graduate medical students who don’t always develop good bedside manners and a capacity for compassion. More recently, some of the best medical schools have added kindness and compassion programs to their curriculum.&nbsp;&nbsp;I didn’t have the benefit of such a program when I went to medical school, however, over my 40-year medical career, I’ve learned to recognize the healing power of kindness in medicine. I’ve seen it in the nursing staff caring for folks living in a small-town long-term care facility. I’ve heard it from medical providers, nurses and technicians caring for people in clinics, ERs, hospitals and in hospice programs. I’ve heard it from kind supportive friends who have offered or driven me for chemo; from jolly laughing buddies who raise my mood; from my care team as they gently hook me up for my next infusion; from our kids who call to check on me; and from my loving wife who is at my side warming me when I’m chilled, picking up my burdens with unending daily kindnesses as I struggle through these side-affects. It’s a good thing she doesn’t love me for my hair.I am happy that our medical schools are teaching young doctors that people deal with illness so much better when it comes with a generous dose of kindness.&nbsp;Richard P. Holm, MD is founder of The Prairie Doc® and author of “Life’s Final Season, A Guide for Aging and Dying with Grace” available on Amazon. For free and easy access to the entire Prairie Doc® library, visit <a href="http://www.prairiedoc.org/" target="_blank">www.prairiedoc.org</a> and follow Prairie Doc® on Facebook, featuring On Call with the Prairie Doc® a medical Q&amp;A show streamed most Thursdays at 7 p.m. central.&nbsp;

Prairie Doc Perspectives: Kindness in medicine

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🎤Post Podcast: Winter sports in full swing at TMP-M

Last week’s inspection results from the Kansas Department of Agriculture:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575919293668.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Last week’s inspection results from the Kansas Department of Agriculture:</h2><div>Dillons - Dec 5 1902 Vine, HaysA follow-up inspection found two violations.</div><ol>
 <li>On the retail side of the consumer reach-in coolers, there were three sealed packages of raw ground beef that were being stored on a solid shelf directly above Beyond Meat Plant-Based Patties. No evidence of leaking was observed.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the cheese self-service area, there were three opened containers of brie cheese with dates of 11/30/19 to 12/7/19. The cheese would have been held over seven days.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><div>Ellis Golf Club - Dec 5 1301 Spruce, EllisA routine inspection found three violations.</div><ol>
 <li>In the single-door refrigerator, there was a container of raw chicken that was being stored on a wire rack directly above fully cooked bacon. No evidence of leaking was observed.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Cook had handled raw chicken with his gloved hands and then grabbed a hamburger bun with the same hands.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the kitchen, there was a non-food grade container that held direct contact with flour. In the two-door cooler in the back storage area, there was a non-food grade container that had direct contact with pigs' tail.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><div>Homestead Nutrition Project Ellis - Dec. 5 Eighth and Washington, EllisA routine inspection found one violation.</div><ol>
 <li>In the single-door Kenmore refrigerator, there was an opened container of heavy whipping cream with no date of when it was opened.</li>
 </ol><div>Chinese Food Express - Dec. 4 1312 Main, HaysA routine inspection found five violations.</div><ol>
 <li>Cook had handled raw beef with his bare hands. After handling the raw beef he grabbed clean glass plates without washing his hands.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>During the inspection, there was a metal pan of cut beef that was sitting on a table directly next to the cooking line. The temperature of the beef was 51 F.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the two-door True refrigerator, there was a bowl of crab rangoon with no date of when it was prepared. In the two-door True refrigerator, there was a container of fully cooked noodles that had no date of when they were cooked.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>During the inspection, the dishwasher was washing plates and pans and not using a sanitizing solution at the end of the cycle.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the chemical storage area, there was a spray bottle that held a clear liquid with no label present.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><div>Hays Extended Stay Partners - Dec. 4 4001 General Hays, HaysA routine inspection found two violations.</div><ol>
 <li>In the two-door refrigerator, there was a container of fully cooked eggs and a container of fully cooked sausage with dates of 12/3/10 to 12/10/19. This product could have been held over seven days.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>The establishment uses Quat Sanitizing Solution and does not have any test strips available.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><div>Sleep Inn and Suites - Dec. 3 1011 41st, HaysA courtesy inspection found one violation.</div><ol>
 <li>In room 203 there was mold present along the interior walls directly next to the window. There was also a small amount of mold present in the shower directly under the corner tile on the North Side.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><div>AMC Theatres - Dec. 2 2918 Vine, HaysAn inspection following a complaint found one violation.</div><ol>
 <li>In the back storage area, there is an Everest single-door refrigerator that held an opened container of six hot dogs with no date of when they were opened.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><div>Clarity Consulting Group - Dec. 2 230 E. Eighth, HaysA follow-up inspection found no violations.</div><div>Imperial Garden - Dec 2 2918 Vine, HaysA routine inspection found nine violations.</div><ol>
 <li>In the Silver King refrigerated prep table, there was an uncovered container of raw eggs that were being stored on a wire shelf directly above an uncovered pan of fully cooked beef. No evidence of leaking was observed.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the walk-in cooler, there was a food-grade plastic tub with raw beef and raw chicken being stored in the same tub.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the four-door reach-in cooler there were four pans of fully cooked beef and four pans of fully cooked chicken. These pans assorted in temperature from 86 F to 91 F.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the Silver King refrigerated make-table, there was a container of fully cooked chicken and cooked beef at the temperature of 62 F.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the single-door True refrigerator, there were cooked noodles with no date of when they were made.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the walk-in cooler, there were two food-grade plastic tubs with cooked vegetables that were opened from the freezer. In the Silver King refrigerated make-table, there was cut cabbage in a food grade bag with no date of when it was cut.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Hanging on a rack and stored as clean there was a plastic food grade measuring cup that was being stored with dried food residue present inside of the cup.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>No paper towels or other hand drying provisions at the back prep area handwashing sink.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In the chemical storage area, there were two spray bottles that were unmarked. One held a clear liquid and one held a blue liquid.</li>
 </ol>

Ellis Co. restaurant and lodging inspections, 12/2 – 12/8

BY BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/central-kansas-farmers-clash-local-wildlife-refuge-over-water">Kansas News Service</a>

ST. JOHN — Water — who gets to use it, when and how — sparks fights all over the world.

The latest battleground is in south central Kansas, near the federally operated Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.

In
 its simplest form, it’s a clash between the refuge, which isn’t getting
 its legal share of water, and the local farmers who may be forced to 
cut back on how much water they use on their crops.

The stakes 
are clear. Wendy Mawhirter, who farms wheat, corn and soybeans near the 
refuge, said her family “wouldn’t have as much money.”

“Our schools wouldn’t be as good. Our little grocery story might shut down,” she said. “We wouldn’t be able to buy machinery.”

But for the refuge, water is “irreplaceable,” according to manager Mike Oldham.

“You can’t put it back there,” he said. "Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

But both recognize the issue is not that simple.

<a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Quivira/about.html" target="_blank">Quivira National Wildlife Refuge</a> was established in 1955, a vast and sprawling wetland area greater than 22,000 acres. It’s a key stop for <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Quivira/visit/visitor_activities/birding_quivira.html" target="_blank">hundreds of species of migrating birds</a>.

On
 a freezing Saturday morning in November, Audubon of Kansas Executive 
Director Ron Klataske led two vans full of people on a tour of the 
refuge. The group, as well as dozens of others standing on the edge of 
Big Salt Marsh, hoped to catch a glimpse of one of only about 400 
whooping cranes still alive. The sounds of thousands of sandhill cranes 
filled the air.

“This is one of the few places and one of the most consistent places 
where you can see whooping cranes in migration,” Klataske said.

That
 salt marsh is filled mostly by water from Rattlesnake Creek. And the 
refuge’s right to water from the creek is one of the oldest in the 
region — dating back to 1957.

In Kansas, seniority is vital when 
it comes to water rights. In years when water is scarce, the older the 
right, the more likely you’ll get water before it runs out.

In 
the 1980s, the refuge started saying it wasn’t getting all the water 
it’s entitled to, arguing that too much groundwater was being pumped by 
farmers and wells. Years of voluntary efforts failed to solve the 
problem, so in 2013, the refuge filed an official complaint with the 
Kansas Department of Agriculture, which oversees water rights.

The state spent <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/wms---impairment-reports/final-impairment-report-quivira-20160715.pdf?sfvrsn=ad2ab8c1_4" target="_blank">two years on the investigation before coming to a conclusion</a>.

“In
 our view, the facts are pretty clear,” Kansas Chief Engineer David 
Barfield said. “(The refuge is) being impaired and something very 
significant needs to happen to remedy that.”

The <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/dwr-water-appropriation-documents/samplenoticemailing2019-09-30.pdf?sfvrsn=951d89c1_4" target="_blank">current proposal to fix the problem</a>
 calls for constructing water wells that the refuge could use to pipe in
 extra water. It also would cut total groundwater use in the Rattlesnake
 Creek watershed by 15%.

And here’s where water rights come into play: The reductions for each
 individual well would be determined based on seniority and historical 
use.

At <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hivvQJaqV_U&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">public hearings held in St. John</a>, some people argued the cuts are unreasonable because using the water for crops is more valuable than using it at the refuge.

But
 Barfield said the perceived value doesn’t factor into the decision. 
While that will be tough for many, he said, he’s legally bound to make 
sure Quivira gets its water.

That’s little consolation to Mawhirter.

“Quivira doesn’t have to make a living off of their water,” she said. “We do.”

Mawhirter
 said she likes having the wildlife refuge nearby, but the current 
proposed water cuts are unfair. She’d like to see a few things instead: 
including people who live further south and west in the cuts; having the
 state find more creative solutions, such as diverting water from the 
nearby Arkansas River; and having the refuge better manage the water it 
does get.

State officials were planning to implement the water cuts Jan. 1, but Republican <a href="http://kda-dwr-updates.org/quivira-public-meeting-and-current-status/" target="_blank">U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran lobbied U-S Fish and Wildlife Service</a> leadership this fall to pause the request and go back to the negotiating table.

Oldham
 said they’ll do what they can, but added there’s not going to be an 
easy solution; if there was, the problem would have already been figured
 out.

If negotiations fail, the issue will likely end up in 
court, though Barfield thinks it’s in the water users’ best interest to 
find a solution before that.

With all of the available data, the courts will likely decide to 
simply shut off water to a large group of junior rights holders to 
ensure the more senior Quivira gets its water.

The state has 
other ways to meet the needs of more junior users, like voluntary 
reductions in water use, he said. Plus, reductions like he’s proposed 
have precedent in Kansas, especially in far western Kansas, where 
self-imposed ones appear to be slowing the decline of the Ogallala 
Aquifer.

“We have seen in various parts of the state and the west, irrigators adapt,” Barfield said. “And they adapt very well.”

But
 with such high stakes, tension between Quivira and other water rights 
holders is high, said Quivira manager Oldham. He’s worked for the U.S. 
Fish and Wildlife Service for 27 years and said the last few have been 
the most stressful he can remember.

“I wouldn’t say that we’re 
not liked, but there’s less tolerance for us,” he said. “It’s not a 
really comfortable place to be right now.”

He said he isn’t trying to hurt anyone, but he has a job to do. Sometimes that’s worth taking a stand.

“You’ve
 got birds that have been coming here for the last millenia,” he said. 
“How do you just say 60 to 70 years from now it’s not going to be there 
anymore?”

Brian Grimmett reports on the environment, energy 
and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. 
You can follow him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a>&nbsp;or
 email him at grimmett @kmuw.org. The Kansas News Service is a
 collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public
 Radio focused on the health and well-being of Kansans, their 
communities and civic life.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575917100413.jpeg" alt="Sunrise over Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Briam Grimmett photo" />
 <figcaption>Sunrise over Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Briam Grimmett photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BY BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/central-kansas-farmers-clash-local-wildlife-refuge-over-water">Kansas News Service</a>ST. JOHN — Water — who gets to use it, when and how — sparks fights all over the world.The latest battleground is in south central Kansas, near the federally operated Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.In
 its simplest form, it’s a clash between the refuge, which isn’t getting
 its legal share of water, and the local farmers who may be forced to 
cut back on how much water they use on their crops.The stakes 
are clear. Wendy Mawhirter, who farms wheat, corn and soybeans near the 
refuge, said her family “wouldn’t have as much money.”“Our schools wouldn’t be as good. Our little grocery story might shut down,” she said. “We wouldn’t be able to buy machinery.”But for the refuge, water is “irreplaceable,” according to manager Mike Oldham.“You can’t put it back there,” he said. "Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”But both recognize the issue is not that simple.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575917219901.jpeg" alt="Little Salt Marsh at Quivira. Brian Grimmett photo" />
 <figcaption>Little Salt Marsh at Quivira. Brian Grimmett photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A matter of seniority</h2><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Quivira/about.html" target="_blank">Quivira National Wildlife Refuge</a> was established in 1955, a vast and sprawling wetland area greater than 22,000 acres. It’s a key stop for <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Quivira/visit/visitor_activities/birding_quivira.html" target="_blank">hundreds of species of migrating birds</a>.On
 a freezing Saturday morning in November, Audubon of Kansas Executive 
Director Ron Klataske led two vans full of people on a tour of the 
refuge. The group, as well as dozens of others standing on the edge of 
Big Salt Marsh, hoped to catch a glimpse of one of only about 400 
whooping cranes still alive. The sounds of thousands of sandhill cranes 
filled the air.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575917263781.jpeg" alt="Audubon of Kansas Executive Director Ran Klataske. Briam Grimmett photo" />
 <figcaption>Audubon of Kansas Executive Director Ran Klataske. Briam Grimmett photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“This is one of the few places and one of the most consistent places 
where you can see whooping cranes in migration,” Klataske said.That
 salt marsh is filled mostly by water from Rattlesnake Creek. And the 
refuge’s right to water from the creek is one of the oldest in the 
region — dating back to 1957.In Kansas, seniority is vital when 
it comes to water rights. In years when water is scarce, the older the 
right, the more likely you’ll get water before it runs out.In 
the 1980s, the refuge started saying it wasn’t getting all the water 
it’s entitled to, arguing that too much groundwater was being pumped by 
farmers and wells. Years of voluntary efforts failed to solve the 
problem, so in 2013, the refuge filed an official complaint with the 
Kansas Department of Agriculture, which oversees water rights.The state spent <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/wms---impairment-reports/final-impairment-report-quivira-20160715.pdf?sfvrsn=ad2ab8c1_4" target="_blank">two years on the investigation before coming to a conclusion</a>.“In
 our view, the facts are pretty clear,” Kansas Chief Engineer David 
Barfield said. “(The refuge is) being impaired and something very 
significant needs to happen to remedy that.”The <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/dwr-water-appropriation-documents/samplenoticemailing2019-09-30.pdf?sfvrsn=951d89c1_4" target="_blank">current proposal to fix the problem</a>
 calls for constructing water wells that the refuge could use to pipe in
 extra water. It also would cut total groundwater use in the Rattlesnake
 Creek watershed by 15%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575917321625.jpeg" alt="Local farmers packed the Stafford County Annex building for a public hearing on proposed actions on Oct. 21.&nbsp;Credit Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Local farmers packed the Stafford County Annex building for a public hearing on proposed actions on Oct. 21.&nbsp;Credit Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>And here’s where water rights come into play: The reductions for each
 individual well would be determined based on seniority and historical 
use.At <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hivvQJaqV_U&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">public hearings held in St. John</a>, some people argued the cuts are unreasonable because using the water for crops is more valuable than using it at the refuge.But
 Barfield said the perceived value doesn’t factor into the decision. 
While that will be tough for many, he said, he’s legally bound to make 
sure Quivira gets its water.That’s little consolation to Mawhirter.“Quivira doesn’t have to make a living off of their water,” she said. “We do.”Mawhirter
 said she likes having the wildlife refuge nearby, but the current 
proposed water cuts are unfair. She’d like to see a few things instead: 
including people who live further south and west in the cuts; having the
 state find more creative solutions, such as diverting water from the 
nearby Arkansas River; and having the refuge better manage the water it 
does get.The delayed responseState officials were planning to implement the water cuts Jan. 1, but Republican <a href="http://kda-dwr-updates.org/quivira-public-meeting-and-current-status/" target="_blank">U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran lobbied U-S Fish and Wildlife Service</a> leadership this fall to pause the request and go back to the negotiating table.Oldham
 said they’ll do what they can, but added there’s not going to be an 
easy solution; if there was, the problem would have already been figured
 out.If negotiations fail, the issue will likely end up in 
court, though Barfield thinks it’s in the water users’ best interest to 
find a solution before that.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575917393099.jpeg" alt="Four endangered whooping cranes roost in the waters of Big Salt Marsh at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.&nbsp;Credit Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Four endangered whooping cranes roost in the waters of Big Salt Marsh at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.&nbsp;Credit Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>With all of the available data, the courts will likely decide to 
simply shut off water to a large group of junior rights holders to 
ensure the more senior Quivira gets its water.The state has 
other ways to meet the needs of more junior users, like voluntary 
reductions in water use, he said. Plus, reductions like he’s proposed 
have precedent in Kansas, especially in far western Kansas, where 
self-imposed ones appear to be slowing the decline of the Ogallala 
Aquifer.“We have seen in various parts of the state and the west, irrigators adapt,” Barfield said. “And they adapt very well.”But
 with such high stakes, tension between Quivira and other water rights 
holders is high, said Quivira manager Oldham. He’s worked for the U.S. 
Fish and Wildlife Service for 27 years and said the last few have been 
the most stressful he can remember.“I wouldn’t say that we’re 
not liked, but there’s less tolerance for us,” he said. “It’s not a 
really comfortable place to be right now.”He said he isn’t trying to hurt anyone, but he has a job to do. Sometimes that’s worth taking a stand.“You’ve
 got birds that have been coming here for the last millenia,” he said. 
“How do you just say 60 to 70 years from now it’s not going to be there 
anymore?”Brian Grimmett reports on the environment, energy 
and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. 
You can follow him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a>&nbsp;or
 email him at grimmett @kmuw.org. The Kansas News Service is a
 collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public
 Radio focused on the health and well-being of Kansans, their 
communities and civic life.

Central Kansas farmers clash with Quivira refuge over water 

<script src="https://embed-642035.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="fca9a1ef-ce41-48fa-9be2-77811d091589" data-routing="hash">/**/</script>

12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Day Six!

Friends, Last Monday, House Republicans released a report that clearly shows how weak the Democrats’ case for impeachment is. On Wednesday, Democrats called before the House Judiciary committee three liberal Constitutional law professors to testify on the so called impeachable offenses. The result of the hearing was just another political charade.&nbsp; On Thursday, Speaker Pelosi formally announced that the House is drafting articles of impeachment against President Trump, despite previously saying an impeachment must be “compelling”, “overwhelming”, and “bipartisan”. House Democrats have failed to give any legitimate reason to impeach President Trump. The facts don’t support their argument.&nbsp;There's nothing there. Congress needs to get back to work. <h1>Combating Robocalls</h1>Illegal robocalls are a serious issue for many Americans, in 2018 there was an estimated 47 billion robocalls placed nationwide. These unwanted calls often seek to defraud Americans, with scammers attempting to extract sensitive personal information, such as Social Security numbers, or sell fake health insurance plans to unsuspecting seniors. Last week the House overwhelming passed the Pallone-Thune TRACED Act by a vote of 429-3 to combat these illegal and disruptive calls. This legislation will require telecom carriers to offer call-authentication technology to consumers and small businesses. It will also require robocall blocking to be offered to consumers at no additional charge, and empower the FCC and Department of Justice to take further regulatory steps against criminal robocallers and noncompliant phone companies. I applaud my colleagues for passing this measure and addressing the problem of illegal and unwanted robocalls.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575908564550.jpeg"><h1>Army Update with General Martin</h1>I had the honor of meeting with Army Vice Chief of Staff General Joseph Martin, who previously served Commander General of Fort Riley. Among other issues, we talked about the many amazing opportunities I have had while serving as the Representative of Kansas' First Congressional District.This year I've been blessed to:<ul><li>Travel to Normandy for the 75th Anniversary of D-Day, to then be escorted by Big Red One Black Hawk helicopters, and view the Big Red One monument at Omaha Beach</li><li>Take part in the rededication of the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene</li><li>Attend the ground breaking for the Eisenhower Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.</li><li>Pass the FIRST Act, which adds the names of hundreds of fallen Big Red One soldiers to the First Division Monument west of the White House</li><li>Serve Thanksgiving lunch to Fort Riley soldiers and send USO care packages to those serving overseas this holiday</li></ul> The First District of Kansas has an amazing history and amazing people. It is a true honor to serve you in Congress. <h1>Conservation Reserve Program Signup Starting Soon</h1>Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture is opening signup for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) on Monday, Dec. 9. The deadline for agricultural producers to sign up for general CRP is February 28, 2020, while signup for continuous CRP is ongoing. Farmers and ranchers who enroll in CRP receive a yearly rental payment for voluntarily establishing long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees (known as “covers”) to control soil erosion, improve water quality and develop wildlife habitat on marginally productive agricultural lands. CRP has 22 million acres enrolled, but the 2018 Farm Bill lifted the cap to 27 million acres. This means farmers and ranchers have a chance to enroll in CRP for the first time or continue their participation for another term. The competitive general signup will now include increased opportunities for enrollment of wildlife habitat through the State Acres For Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) initiative.&nbsp; FSA recently posted updated soil rental rates for CRP. County average rates are posted on the <a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-programs/reports-and-statistics/conservation-reserve-program-statistics/index" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CRP Statistics webpage</a>. Soil rental rates are statutorily prorated at 90 percent for continuous signup and 85 percent for general signup. The rental rates will be reviewed annually. Under continuous signup, producers also receive incentives, including a signup incentive payment and a practice incentive payment. To enroll in CRP, contact your local FSA county office or <a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-programs/conservation-reserve-program/index" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click Here</a>. To locate your local FSA office, <a href="https://www.farmers.gov/service-center-locator" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click Here</a>. <h1>Supporting the Life Insurance Industry</h1>Members of the Kansas chapter of the National Association of Insurance and Financial&nbsp;Advisors&nbsp;stopped by the office to discuss issues related to insurance and finance with my staff and me. In Kansas, the life insurance industry generates approximately 22,900 jobs and invests approximately $43 billion in the local economy while providing critical services for our communities. Ensuring that all Kansans have access to good financial advice so that they can better prepare for the future is vitally important to the continued success of our communities, and I appreciated hearing a bit more about how this group is helping to achieve that goal.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575908451975.jpeg"><h1>Supporting Food For Peace</h1>Last week I joined a bipartisan group of members in introducing a resolution commending the Food for Peace program for its efforts in promoting peace by decreasing global food insecurity. As a doctor, I understand how essential proper nutrition is for good health. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Food for Peace Act into law in 1954, thereby enacting a program that has helped millions of people around the world. This program gets food to those in need, and, in doing so, allows our Kansas agricultural producers to reach more markets. It is my hope that Congress continues to support Food for Peace in its struggle against food insecurity across the globe.Rep<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575908168075.jpeg">Rep. Marshall with Kansas Adjutant General, Maj. General Lee Tafanelli <h1>Preparing for Extreme Wind</h1>Kansans are no strangers to strong winds and the immense damage it can cause. From a loss of crops to damage to public infrastructure, wind events have and will continue to wreak havoc on Kansans. The National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program has helped communities utilize federal resources to mitigate the harmful impacts of severe wind events. Last Thursday, Kansas Adjutant General, Maj. General Lee Tafanelli, testified before a hearing of the Science, Space and Technology Committee, about how the Kansas Division of Emergency Management utilizes federal resources to reduce the impact of wind events in Kansas. Since 2018, five severe storms and tornado outbreaks that hit Kansas and neighboring states have cost $8.9 billion. Gen. Tafanelli and his team have been instrumental in helping communities better plan for future wind events. That is why it is more important than ever for lawmakers to understand how federal programs and policies can reduce costs and save lives. Kansas is the nation’s leader in mitigation efforts and every $1 spent on mitigation has allowed the state to avoid approximately $6 in potential disaster recovery costs. <h1>Fighting for the Second Amendment</h1>In honor of my office celebrating 2nd Amendment Week, I introduced The Home Defense and Competitive Shooting Act. My legislation would streamline bureaucratic regulations, reduce lengthy ATF processing times, and remove unconstitutional finger print requirements and fees for certain rifles. Opponents of the Second Amendment want to use bureaucracy and regulations to obstruct citizens attempting to exercise their right to keep and bear arms.This bill will eliminate regulations designed not to protect Americans, but to deny them their Constitutional rights. <h1>New Bill on Ensuring Coverage for Life-Saving Medical Devices</h1>During my time in Congress, I’ve dedicated my efforts to ensuring Kansas seniors receive timely access to innovative therapies for life-threatening illnesses. I’ve worked to ensure they have access to life-saving immunotherapies, and I joined a group of bipartisan members to bridge the coverage gap on breakthrough medical devices. H.R. 5333, the Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act of 2019 would guarantee Medicare beneficiaries access to new medical technologies by streamlining the coverage determination process. To learn more about the legislation,&nbsp;<a href="https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-joins-bipartisan-group-reintroduce-critical-legislation-ensuring" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(36, 64, 97);">Click Here</a>. Dr. Roger Marshall (R-Great Bend) is the Kansas First District Congressman.

MARSHALL: Doctor's Note Dec. 9

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575907599654.jpeg">The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting the gusty winds will continue into the afternoon and early evening. Gusts up to 40 mph were expected this morning, tapering off until dropping to 10 mph after 6 p.m. Forecasters are calling for a moderate remainder of the week, with mostly clear skies and high temperatures ranging from the high 40s to the mid- to upper 50s Tuesday through Saturday. Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> for the complete expanded forecast.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575907654204.jpeg">

Windy conditions will continue into Monday afternoon

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575900261642.jpeg">David Norlin Senators exist for many reasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;But finally and most critically, they have final say in our Constitution’s preservation and protection.&nbsp;&nbsp;That’s the centerpiece of their oath of office. and their most sacred responsibility.&nbsp; Our most sacred responsibility is voting them in or out.&nbsp; While not enough by itself, voting is still our barrier between democracy and dictatorship.&nbsp;&nbsp;An especially eloquent defender of that right was Professor Pamela Karlan, testifying before the House Judiciary Committee.&nbsp;Karlan’s unimpeachable credentials include representing the Judiciary committee in two Supreme Court voting rights cases.&nbsp;<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png">Her argument is simple and straightforward:&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump used his unique presidential powers (and stolen power of the purse) to bribe and extort a foreign president to enter into a conspiracy.&nbsp;&nbsp;That conspiracy’s goal was to trump up charges against Trump’s possible opponent.&nbsp;&nbsp;This would hoodwink U.S. voters to vote for him, thus violating our right to fair and free elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As Professor Karlan said,&nbsp;&nbsp;“He struck at the very heart of what makes this the Republic to which we pledge allegiance.”&nbsp;Donald J. Trump:&nbsp;&nbsp;Domestic enemy of our constitutional voting rights.&nbsp; Senators Moran and Roberts are now our only barrier between democracy and dictatorship.&nbsp;&nbsp;Voting against impeachment and removal would abdicate their responsibility to constitution, country and constituents.&nbsp;They can transcend party politics, or sink beneath it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their voting choice will determine if they are mere parrots — or patriots.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Their oath demands the latter. After all, what are Senators for?&nbsp;&nbsp; David Norlin is the former President of Salina Access TV, and a former College Director of Broadcasting and English Department Chair. He has twice run for Kansas state office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORLIN: Will GOP senators be parrots — or patriots?

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575651522578.jpeg">By JAMES BELLHays Post At a recent meeting, the Hays Kiwanis presented the ARC Park project with $5,000 and heard an update from ARC of the Central Plains Board President Sarah Meitner. She informed the group of changes to plans for the park, located at 33rd and Hillcrest, and the current fundraising status. “We continue to be overwhelmed by the generous support in the community for our project,” Meitner said. “We are hopeful that we can hit our goal soon until then we are going to keep plugging away and raising money and coming up with a really awesome park.” Meitner estimated another $80,000 had been pledged as in-kind donations with over 500 donors giving to the project. “We thank Kiwanis so much for their generous $5,000 donation,” she said. “Today, we officially passed the half-million mark in our cash in hand —&nbsp;and that is in large part due to the support of all of the civic groups in town.” The total cost of the project is currently estimated at $2 million and includes playground equipment, a splash pad, wrap-around parking and a baseball field – all designed around accessibility. Showing the latest design to the group, Meitner said it will provide a multi-generational play space while enhanced recreation opportunities for people with disabilities. It will also create a safe picnic space, something she said a lot of people traveling through Hays ask about. The baseball field will also be a regional draw, giving Special Olympic athletes a place to practice. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575651679639.jpeg"> “We know there are 5,400 roughly … Special Olympic athletes in central and western Kansas,” Meitner said. “We’re really hoping that this field won't just serve our athletes here, other than the Buffalos, our local team, but perhaps be a meeting spot for the teams." As an example, she suggested a team from Colby may play against a team from Great Bend on the field. Adding the wrap-around parking will also make the park easier to access for those with disabilities. “We believe that will be key to the accessibility of the park,” Meitner said. Plans for the core feature of the park, the playground, continue to evolve as well. Added additional equipment – a we go round, a hammock swing and other accessibility friendly equipment are in the current plans. “Lots of fun stuff for the kids to do,” Meitner said. Plans for equipment are still in flux as it doesn’t affect the opening of the park. As the project evolves the size of the park has increased as well, growing by about 3,000 square feet to a total footprint of 15,000 square feet. Meitner said they are hoping to begin construction next April, if the weather is cooperative and grants continue to come in, starting with the baseball field. For more about the park, or to donate,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysarcpark.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">visit the ARC Park webpage by clicking here.</a><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575651593854.jpeg">During the meeting the club also inducted several new members as they continue to grow in Hays.

ARC Park fundraising passes half-million mark with Kiwanis donation

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575649739391.png"> LOGAN — The&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen Foundation and K-State Research and Extension Community Intern Program gives upper level college students the opportunity to link classroom learning to a pre-professional work experience. Intern positions are now posted. Students can find the list of opportunities with descriptions by visiting the Foundation's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.danehansenfoundation.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.danehansenfoundation.org</a>, click on Internships, then on Hansen Community Interns. The list is also located on the K-State Research and Extension jobs page. There are opportunities for 22 college students in communities across Northwest Kansas.&nbsp;The specific skill set needed is listed with each position announcement.&nbsp; These are well paid internships and the host community or organization provides the office space and housing for the intern.&nbsp; Opportunities are available for students in a variety of majors, ranging from architecture to marketing, and many others. Applicants must:<ul><li>have completed at least six (6) university semesters at any college or university</li><li>be self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision</li><li>possess strong communications skills (oral and written)</li><li>meet any job-specific requirements, as listed on the individual position announcement.</li></ul> Interns must live in the relevant northwestern Kansas community during the summer of 2020.&nbsp;Employment is contingent on the results of a background check. The materials students will need to submit for consideration are:<ol><li>A cover letter, explaining why you are interested in the position and why you should be selected</li><li>Your resume, highlighting work, education, and experience that would help you succeed in the internship</li><li>A list of three (3) professional references and their contact information (Name, Title, Company/Organization, e-mail address, and phone number)</li></ol><ul><li>The APPLICATION PROCEDURE section of the position announcement may also specify to include a copy of your portfolio.&nbsp;If a portfolio is requested, please combine it into one PDF file for submission.</li></ul> Please assemble your cover letter, resume, and references list as&nbsp;one pdf document.&nbsp;&nbsp; Submit your application materials (including your portfolio if specified on the position announcement) as an attachment in an e-mail to Nadine Sigle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nsigle@ksu.edu?subject=Hansen%20Internship%3A%20" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">nsigle@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;with the subject line "Hansen Internship: [Location]." The deadline to submit applications is&nbsp;Jan. 31. For further details on the internship program, go to <a href="https://danehansenfoundation.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">danehansenfoundation.org</a>, and click on the internships tab, or contact Sigle at <a href="nsigle@ksu.edu">nsigle@ksu.edu</a> or (785) 346-6256. - NEWS RELEASE -

Applications open for Dane G. Hansen interns in NW Kan.

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png">Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. Two and a half years ago, we received word from the Kansas Attorney General’s office that the Cottonwood Extension District #17 had been approved. Months of hard work by our Extension supporters preceded the formal announcement. Our board, consisting of four members from each county, has held monthly meetings to stay abreast of the business of running an Extension District. At the end of this month we will say good bye and thank you to two of our outgoing board members and welcome two new faces to the board in January.&nbsp; Rhiannon Corn from Ellis County and Steve Tustin from Barton County will both be stepping off the board and I want to publicly say “thank you” for your support and hard work on the board. Allen Roth, from Ellis County, and Kathie Rondeau, from Barton County, were re-elected to another term on the Executive board. Tatum Kimsey, from Ellis County, and Dick Dougherty, from Barton County, were elected on November 5th and will begin their 4 year terms in January 2020. Four additional board members will continue to serve through 2021. They include: Nathan Leiker and Ramie Wasinger, from Ellis County and Deanna Essmiller and Natalie Fullerton, from Barton County.&nbsp; The Cottonwood Extension District includes a staff of seven agents and two office professionals. Our goals include providing research based information to help improve the quality of life of the individuals we serve. I hope you have had an opportunity to utilize our services. Perhaps you have worked with one of our Agriculture agents, Alicia Boor or Stacy Campbell, to learn about wheat varieties that do well in our region or about details of the Farm Bill. If your family is involved in 4-H or after school programs, you have two experienced agents, Susan Schlichting and Michelle Beran, leading the youth development program in our district.&nbsp; Take time to introduce yourself to our Horticulture Agent, Lauren Fick. Lauren divides her time between the two counties and is excited to provide leadership to a successful Master Gardener program and answer yard, garden and tree questions you may have. And finally, Berny Unruh and I are committed to bringing Extension educational programming related to nutrition, health and wellness, food safety, family resource management, aging issues, and family life in general. I also want to mention our two experienced office professionals. Brenda Walton, in the Great Bend office, takes the lead with the finances for the district while Theresa Meis, in the Hays office, focuses on communicating our efforts through newsletters and our web site. Both Brenda and Theresa handle a multitude of other duties that keep our offices running smoothly. We’ve also appreciated having Kory Ridnour, our intern, help us&nbsp;with media and the marketing of our programs. It is great news that K-State Research and Extension has answers to many of lifes’ questions, typically at no or low cost. Unlike what you might find through a Google search, the answers we provide are research based and non-biased. I hope you will take a look at our Cottonwood web site. We have tried a different format for our newsletter that I think you will like. We hope to see you at some of our upcoming programs.&nbsp; Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Thanks to outgoing board members

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574099003602.png"><a href="https://www.hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here. </a><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575653633883.jpeg">