Elections work best when campaigns highlight policy contrasts for voters. As the Republican primary for Senate in Kansas closes, this election has been a missed opportunity to discuss policy and force candidates on record about their policy views.&nbsp;

On the issues that have received the most campaign attention, meaningful policy differences between the major Republican candidates—Bob Hamilton, Kris Kobach, and Roger Marshall—just aren’t there. Abortion, LGBT rights, guns, or masks, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In focusing on areas of consensus, the campaign has missed an opportunity to actually clarify the choice for voters. What are candidate differences on other matters where past statements or actions suggest disagreement? Are there policy differences on issues that the campaign has not highlighted?&nbsp;

Many people thought Marshall was a moderate when he first went to Congress. He ousted ultra conservative Representative Tim Huelskamp in 2016. Many of the same folks who championed moderate Republicans in that year’s anti-Sam Brownback wave also reveled in Marshall’s win.&nbsp;

But, Marshall has shown that he is more conservative than many thought. The most moderate thing about him may be that he seems a reliable vote for Republican leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If most Republicans are supporting a compromise spending bill, for example, Marshall seems to follow leadership on those votes, rather than casting an ideological protest vote or opting for unrealistic conservative fiscal policy as many very conservative House Republicans sometimes do. This seems to be what earns Marshall his less than perfect ratings from groups like Club for Growth or American Conservative Union.&nbsp;

That is a substantive point that this campaign has glossed over. The DC Republican “establishment” prefers Marshall over Kobach, judging from statements and PAC spending. Would Kobach act differently than Marshall? Would he play nice with Republican leaders on fiscal votes and more, or would he be a conservative headache for them like Huelskamp often was?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Immigration is another area of potential difference that has been underplayed. This issue is central to Kobach’s brand. He is about as conservative on immigration as possible, and has been an immigration advisor to President Trump.&nbsp;

In Congress, Marshall has supported Trump on immigration, but past statements suggest Marshall is more moderate here. Regarding undocumented immigrants, he told the&nbsp;Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;in 2015: "There has to be a pathway to at least have a job. I'm not ready to jump on the amnesty bandwagon just yet, but we need to find a way to get these people into the system." Marshall added: “"We make it so hard for good people to become citizens.”&nbsp;

This is a difference worth more attention than it has gotten, especially on a major issue that will outlast the Trump presidency.&nbsp;

Beyond that, think about all of the issues where this campaign hasn’t clearly explored candidate positions, especially for Kobach and Hamilton who lack legislative records. Russia. NATO. Free trade. Health care policy. Covid policy. Numerous civil liberties issues. Energy. Platitudes aren’t policy.&nbsp;

Is it unfortunate that this primary hasn’t treated Kansas voters to a deeper conversation about issues. Instead, we get sexy filler and symbolism. Did Marshall get special treatment from prosecutors in his 2008 conviction? Is Kobach electable or tied to white nationalists? Is Hamilton secretly pro-transgender? If you’re a Kansas Republican looking for more, don’t feel bad if you’re still hungry come primary day.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593101597372.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Elections work best when campaigns highlight policy contrasts for voters. As the Republican primary for Senate in Kansas closes, this election has been a missed opportunity to discuss policy and force candidates on record about their policy views.&nbsp;On the issues that have received the most campaign attention, meaningful policy differences between the major Republican candidates—Bob Hamilton, Kris Kobach, and Roger Marshall—just aren’t there. Abortion, LGBT rights, guns, or masks, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;In focusing on areas of consensus, the campaign has missed an opportunity to actually clarify the choice for voters. What are candidate differences on other matters where past statements or actions suggest disagreement? Are there policy differences on issues that the campaign has not highlighted?&nbsp;Many people thought Marshall was a moderate when he first went to Congress. He ousted ultra conservative Representative Tim Huelskamp in 2016. Many of the same folks who championed moderate Republicans in that year’s anti-Sam Brownback wave also reveled in Marshall’s win.&nbsp;But, Marshall has shown that he is more conservative than many thought. The most moderate thing about him may be that he seems a reliable vote for Republican leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;If most Republicans are supporting a compromise spending bill, for example, Marshall seems to follow leadership on those votes, rather than casting an ideological protest vote or opting for unrealistic conservative fiscal policy as many very conservative House Republicans sometimes do. This seems to be what earns Marshall his less than perfect ratings from groups like Club for Growth or American Conservative Union.&nbsp;That is a substantive point that this campaign has glossed over. The DC Republican “establishment” prefers Marshall over Kobach, judging from statements and PAC spending. Would Kobach act differently than Marshall? Would he play nice with Republican leaders on fiscal votes and more, or would he be a conservative headache for them like Huelskamp often was?&nbsp;&nbsp;Immigration is another area of potential difference that has been underplayed. This issue is central to Kobach’s brand. He is about as conservative on immigration as possible, and has been an immigration advisor to President Trump.&nbsp;In Congress, Marshall has supported Trump on immigration, but past statements suggest Marshall is more moderate here. Regarding undocumented immigrants, he told the&nbsp;Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;in 2015: "There has to be a pathway to at least have a job. I'm not ready to jump on the amnesty bandwagon just yet, but we need to find a way to get these people into the system." Marshall added: “"We make it so hard for good people to become citizens.”&nbsp;This is a difference worth more attention than it has gotten, especially on a major issue that will outlast the Trump presidency.&nbsp;Beyond that, think about all of the issues where this campaign hasn’t clearly explored candidate positions, especially for Kobach and Hamilton who lack legislative records. Russia. NATO. Free trade. Health care policy. Covid policy. Numerous civil liberties issues. Energy. Platitudes aren’t policy.&nbsp;Is it unfortunate that this primary hasn’t treated Kansas voters to a deeper conversation about issues. Instead, we get sexy filler and symbolism. Did Marshall get special treatment from prosecutors in his 2008 conviction? Is Kobach electable or tied to white nationalists? Is Hamilton secretly pro-transgender? If you’re a Kansas Republican looking for more, don’t feel bad if you’re still hungry come primary day.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: GOP primary for U.S. Senate a voter injustice 

Agricultural producers in Kansas and other states this year can participate in Kansas State University’s Risk &amp; Profit Conference from wherever they are as the university takes the entire conference online. The conference is set for Aug. 10-14.&nbsp;

From producers to processors to consumers, the new coronavirus has affected every aspect of life, so this year’s conference will focus on the economics of agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;

Different sessions are scheduled for each day, including the popular livestock and grain market outlooks. Sessions run from noon to 1:30 p.m. each day except Thursday, when an expanded schedule runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. That day also features an open chat at lunchtime with extension specialists. &nbsp;

Registration is available&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/events/risk-and-profit-conference">online</a> and questions can be directed to Rich Llewelyn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rvl@ksu.edu">rvl@ksu.edu</a>. &nbsp;The schedule for the program is:

Monday, August 10 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Hedging the Sale of Kansas Live Cattle: A Review of the Past 10 Years - Brian Coffey 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Ag Finance Situation - Allen Featherstone

Tuesday, August 11 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Macroeconomy, Interest Rates, and Future Inflation&nbsp; - Brian Briggeman 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 2 (12:45-1:30): US Agri-Food Trade and COVID-19 - Vincent Amanor-Boadu, Kara Ross, Catharine Ofori-Bah

Wednesday, August 12 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Crop Share or Cash Rent: How Does Risk Affect the Decision?-Mykel Taylor, Chelsea Arnold 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Assessment of Ag’s Contribution to the Kansas Economy - John Leatherman, Jody Wendt

Thursday, August 13 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 1 (10:30-11:15): Livestock Market Outlook—Glynn Tonsor 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (11:15-12:00): Grain Market Outlook—Dan O’Brien 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break/Lunch (12:00-12:30): Open Chat with K-State Agricultural Economics Extensions Specialists 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 3 (12:30-1:15): Nontraditional Finance: Overview and Trends - Jenny Ifft 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 4 (1:15-2:00): Projections of Net Farm Income for 2020 and 2021 - Gregg Ibendahl

Friday, August 14 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Economic Losses From ARC/PLC Election In 2014 Farm Bill - Nathan Hendricks, Mary Kurzweil 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): International Grain Market Trends and Factors&nbsp; - Guy Allen, Dan O’Brien

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Agricultural producers in Kansas and other states this year can participate in Kansas State University’s Risk &amp; Profit Conference from wherever they are as the university takes the entire conference online. The conference is set for Aug. 10-14.&nbsp;From producers to processors to consumers, the new coronavirus has affected every aspect of life, so this year’s conference will focus on the economics of agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;Different sessions are scheduled for each day, including the popular livestock and grain market outlooks. Sessions run from noon to 1:30 p.m. each day except Thursday, when an expanded schedule runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. That day also features an open chat at lunchtime with extension specialists. &nbsp;Registration is available&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/events/risk-and-profit-conference">online</a> and questions can be directed to Rich Llewelyn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rvl@ksu.edu">rvl@ksu.edu</a>. &nbsp;The schedule for the program is:Monday, August 10 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Hedging the Sale of Kansas Live Cattle: A Review of the Past 10 Years - Brian Coffey 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Ag Finance Situation - Allen FeatherstoneTuesday, August 11 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Macroeconomy, Interest Rates, and Future Inflation&nbsp; - Brian Briggeman 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 2 (12:45-1:30): US Agri-Food Trade and COVID-19 - Vincent Amanor-Boadu, Kara Ross, Catharine Ofori-BahWednesday, August 12 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Crop Share or Cash Rent: How Does Risk Affect the Decision?-Mykel Taylor, Chelsea Arnold 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Assessment of Ag’s Contribution to the Kansas Economy - John Leatherman, Jody WendtThursday, August 13 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 1 (10:30-11:15): Livestock Market Outlook—Glynn Tonsor 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (11:15-12:00): Grain Market Outlook—Dan O’Brien 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break/Lunch (12:00-12:30): Open Chat with K-State Agricultural Economics Extensions Specialists 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 3 (12:30-1:15): Nontraditional Finance: Overview and Trends - Jenny Ifft 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 4 (1:15-2:00): Projections of Net Farm Income for 2020 and 2021 - Gregg IbendahlFriday, August 14 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Economic Losses From ARC/PLC Election In 2014 Farm Bill - Nathan Hendricks, Mary Kurzweil 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): International Grain Market Trends and Factors&nbsp; - Guy Allen, Dan O’BrienAlicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Conference will focus on effect of virus on ag economy

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Spending time at a pool has always been an integral part of summer for my little family. My kids have participated in swim lessons every summer since they were born. From participating in the “mommy and me” lessons offered by a local YMCA, to group lessons at a nearby community pool, my two children have spent many of their summer days looking forward to a refreshing break from the Kansas heat by jumping into a pool. &nbsp; Over the years my kids have become accustomed to the luxury of pool time to include a herd of kids lined up patiently waiting to jump off a diving board, summer jams blaring over loud speakers and a concession stand readily available to sell them a nice sugary treat. This year, however, has offered a new pool experience. &nbsp; While my family has remained on the farm this summer, we have introduced the kids to the joys of our own “private” pool. Our pool is a bit smaller than the average community pool.&nbsp; &nbsp; It doesn’t offer a diving board. There is no deep end to toss diving toys into. You definitely can’t practice handstands or dolphin kicks or even swim laps at our pool. A ladder is not available to climb out of it when the lifeguard blows the whistle for a break. In fact, our pool’s lifeguard lacks a whistle. The lifeguard tower isn’t as high as you would see at other pools, and our lifeguard’s seat lacks any flotation devices — but does offer two mesh drink holders.&nbsp; &nbsp; While we still have many days of excellent pool time temperatures, when it is time to close the pool because of changing of seasons, we won’t have to winterize our pool. Instead, we’ll just need to move it to the other side of the fence so the cattle will have another place to drink. &nbsp; Yes, we have introduced our kids to the stock tank pool this summer. And they are truly loving it! &nbsp; Our pool is convenient and refreshing and has become a place for my family of four to enjoy summer mornings, afternoons and evenings taking a dip. &nbsp; Our pool has allowed the kids to go for their “morning swims” before breakfast. In fact, many mornings while getting breakfast together, I watch my two race each other down the hill to see who can jump into the water first.&nbsp; &nbsp; In the evenings, I’ll sit in my comfortable camp chair, put a drink in a cup holder, place my feet up on the edge of the pool and read the newspaper while simultaneously trying to avoid getting splashed by the young swimmers occupying the space. &nbsp; While the space is best for two small children, there are even times you’ll see my husband or myself sitting in the pool helping the kids create a giant whirlpool. Even Rosie the farm dog has jumped in at times to demonstrate proper doggy paddle technique to her two small humans. &nbsp; While our pool may lack crowds and chlorine, it has allowed us to continue to enjoy breaks from the heat and has given the kids something extra to look forward to — and will perhaps become another happy memory of what the summer of 2020 was like home on the farm.

"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/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Spending time at a pool has always been an integral part of summer for my little family. My kids have participated in swim lessons every summer since they were born. From participating in the “mommy and me” lessons offered by a local YMCA, to group lessons at a nearby community pool, my two children have spent many of their summer days looking forward to a refreshing break from the Kansas heat by jumping into a pool. &nbsp; Over the years my kids have become accustomed to the luxury of pool time to include a herd of kids lined up patiently waiting to jump off a diving board, summer jams blaring over loud speakers and a concession stand readily available to sell them a nice sugary treat. This year, however, has offered a new pool experience. &nbsp; While my family has remained on the farm this summer, we have introduced the kids to the joys of our own “private” pool. Our pool is a bit smaller than the average community pool.&nbsp; &nbsp; It doesn’t offer a diving board. There is no deep end to toss diving toys into. You definitely can’t practice handstands or dolphin kicks or even swim laps at our pool. A ladder is not available to climb out of it when the lifeguard blows the whistle for a break. In fact, our pool’s lifeguard lacks a whistle. The lifeguard tower isn’t as high as you would see at other pools, and our lifeguard’s seat lacks any flotation devices — but does offer two mesh drink holders.&nbsp; &nbsp; While we still have many days of excellent pool time temperatures, when it is time to close the pool because of changing of seasons, we won’t have to winterize our pool. Instead, we’ll just need to move it to the other side of the fence so the cattle will have another place to drink. &nbsp; Yes, we have introduced our kids to the stock tank pool this summer. And they are truly loving it! &nbsp; Our pool is convenient and refreshing and has become a place for my family of four to enjoy summer mornings, afternoons and evenings taking a dip. &nbsp; Our pool has allowed the kids to go for their “morning swims” before breakfast. In fact, many mornings while getting breakfast together, I watch my two race each other down the hill to see who can jump into the water first.&nbsp; &nbsp; In the evenings, I’ll sit in my comfortable camp chair, put a drink in a cup holder, place my feet up on the edge of the pool and read the newspaper while simultaneously trying to avoid getting splashed by the young swimmers occupying the space. &nbsp; While the space is best for two small children, there are even times you’ll see my husband or myself sitting in the pool helping the kids create a giant whirlpool. Even Rosie the farm dog has jumped in at times to demonstrate proper doggy paddle technique to her two small humans. &nbsp; While our pool may lack crowds and chlorine, it has allowed us to continue to enjoy breaks from the heat and has given the kids something extra to look forward to — and will perhaps become another happy memory of what the summer of 2020 was like home on the farm."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: Swimming through summer

The Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association (KIOGA) has canceled its annual convention in response to uncertainty about the response to the coronavirus pandemic. The group is reviewing other plans including a series of internet seminars to replace the events originally scheduled for the August gathering. An online conversation with the Kansas Congressional delegation is planned next month. The popular golf and sporting clays tourneys could be rescheduled as early as October.

Friday's prices at CHS in McPherson were up a quarter. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $31.50 a barrel. That's 75 cents higher than a week ago, a dollar-fifty higher than at the first of the month but nearly $15 cheaper than last year at this time.

Kansas gasoline prices held steady. The Sunflower State remained one of just 12 states with average gas prices below two dollars a gallon. The average Thursday across Kansas last week was $1.979. That's a nickel more than last month at this time, and about 55 cents less than a year ago. AAA said the average across the U.S. was about $2.19 a gallon. 

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the Kansas rig count rose last week, but so did the number of inactive drilling rigs.  There are two active oil and gas drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, up one from last week, and five west of Wichita, which is up two. There are 26 idle rigs statewide, compared to just 20 last week. There's not a lot of drilling activity in our area. Operators reached total depth at leases in Russell and Stafford counties.

Baker Hughes reports the national rig count was 251 on Friday, an increase of one oil rig but a drop of three rigs looking for natural gas. The count in Texas was down one, while New Mexico was up one. 

Kansas regulators approved five permits for drilling at new locations for the week ending July 23, all of them in Western Kansas. That's 245 new permits so far this year compared to 550 by this point last year.

There were just eight wells completed last week across the state, four of them were east of Wichita and four in western Kansas, including one completion in Russell County. Operators across the state report 564 completed wells so far this year, well behind the 823 wells completed by late July of 2019.

The government reports a slight uptick in U.S. crude-oil production last week, to 11.06 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration says U.S. crude-oil stockpiles increased by nearly five million barrels last week. Inventories are about 19% higher than the five-year average for this time of year. U.S. crude oil imports averaged 5.9 million barrels per day, an increase of 373,000 barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged 13.5%  less than the same four-week period last year. 

The Governor of Colorado says he has negotiated a truce in that state's oil and gas "ballot wars." Governor Jared Polis is hoping to let Colorado's new oil and gas law work its way through the regulatory process. In an opinion article published Monday, Governor Polis said an industry-backed group called Protect Colorado will end its efforts to put two pro-industry measures on the ballot this year. Three other measures, relating to new setback rules, local moratoriums and state oversight, won't make this year's ballot either, but supporters say that's more about the difficulty gathering signatures than any deal with the Governor. And some prominent environmental groups in the state still plan to consider a new batch of ballot measures in 2022.

Texas regulators say the Saudi-Russia oil price war spilled over into the U.S. economy in the form of what they call excessive dumping of crude oil into U.S. markets. The Railroad Commission of Texas, the state's top oil regulator, says after the pandemic hit Saudi shipments to the U.S. reached roughly four times February's volume, the highest total since 2014. The Commission and other groups are urging a federal investigation.

U.S. Oil-by-rail is up for the week but down nearly 15% compared to a year ago. The year-to-date total is down about 12% compared to the same figure a year ago. The Association of American Railroads says total rail traffic is also improving week-to-week, up about seven percent, but still lags behind last year by eight-and-a-half percent.

China’s crude oil imports from Saudi Arabia rose 15% in June compared to a year ago. Chinese refiners ordered record volumes in March and April when oil prices tumbled. China's crude imports from all its main suppliers set new records in June, boosting the country's total crude imports to a new record high, nearly 13 million barrels per day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARThe Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association (KIOGA) has canceled its annual convention in response to uncertainty about the response to the coronavirus pandemic. The group is reviewing other plans including a series of internet seminars to replace the events originally scheduled for the August gathering. An online conversation with the Kansas Congressional delegation is planned next month. The popular golf and sporting clays tourneys could be rescheduled as early as October.Friday's prices at CHS in McPherson were up a quarter. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $31.50 a barrel. That's 75 cents higher than a week ago, a dollar-fifty higher than at the first of the month but nearly $15 cheaper than last year at this time.Kansas gasoline prices held steady. The Sunflower State remained one of just 12 states with average gas prices below two dollars a gallon. The average Thursday across Kansas last week was $1.979. That's a nickel more than last month at this time, and about 55 cents less than a year ago. AAA said the average across the U.S. was about $2.19 a gallon. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the Kansas rig count rose last week, but so did the number of inactive drilling rigs. There are two active oil and gas drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, up one from last week, and five west of Wichita, which is up two. There are 26 idle rigs statewide, compared to just 20 last week. There's not a lot of drilling activity in our area. Operators reached total depth at leases in Russell and Stafford counties.Baker Hughes reports the national rig count was 251 on Friday, an increase of one oil rig but a drop of three rigs looking for natural gas. The count in Texas was down one, while New Mexico was up one. Kansas regulators approved five permits for drilling at new locations for the week ending July 23, all of them in Western Kansas. That's 245 new permits so far this year compared to 550 by this point last year.There were just eight wells completed last week across the state, four of them were east of Wichita and four in western Kansas, including one completion in Russell County. Operators across the state report 564 completed wells so far this year, well behind the 823 wells completed by late July of 2019.The government reports a slight uptick in U.S. crude-oil production last week, to 11.06 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration says U.S. crude-oil stockpiles increased by nearly five million barrels last week. Inventories are about 19% higher than the five-year average for this time of year. U.S. crude oil imports averaged 5.9 million barrels per day, an increase of 373,000 barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged 13.5% less than the same four-week period last year. The Governor of Colorado says he has negotiated a truce in that state's oil and gas "ballot wars." Governor Jared Polis is hoping to let Colorado's new oil and gas law work its way through the regulatory process. In an opinion article published Monday, Governor Polis said an industry-backed group called Protect Colorado will end its efforts to put two pro-industry measures on the ballot this year. Three other measures, relating to new setback rules, local moratoriums and state oversight, won't make this year's ballot either, but supporters say that's more about the difficulty gathering signatures than any deal with the Governor. And some prominent environmental groups in the state still plan to consider a new batch of ballot measures in 2022.Texas regulators say the Saudi-Russia oil price war spilled over into the U.S. economy in the form of what they call excessive dumping of crude oil into U.S. markets. The Railroad Commission of Texas, the state's top oil regulator, says after the pandemic hit Saudi shipments to the U.S. reached roughly four times February's volume, the highest total since 2014. The Commission and other groups are urging a federal investigation.U.S. Oil-by-rail is up for the week but down nearly 15% compared to a year ago. The year-to-date total is down about 12% compared to the same figure a year ago. The Association of American Railroads says total rail traffic is also improving week-to-week, up about seven percent, but still lags behind last year by eight-and-a-half percent.China’s crude oil imports from Saudi Arabia rose 15% in June compared to a year ago. Chinese refiners ordered record volumes in March and April when oil prices tumbled. China's crude imports from all its main suppliers set new records in June, boosting the country's total crude imports to a new record high, nearly 13 million barrels per day.

News From the Oil Patch: Drilling activity slow in western Kan.

Next week, we’ll know more of the folks who are going to the Statehouse Prom.

Republican voters in five Senate districts will have made a primary election choice next Tuesday, putting those five winners on the November ballot without major party opposition. In the House, voters in 13 districts will have selected 10 Republicans and 3 Democrats for the general election ballot, and those 13 who won’t have a major party opponent.

Oh, and in the Senate, there are five Republicans and one Democrat who won re-election when their filing check cleared the Secretary of State’s office on June 1, and in the&nbsp; House, there are 24 Republicans and 9 Democrats who have no major party opposition in the primary or general.

So, this primary election? It was for just a handful of potential legislators—though us Statehouse habitués understand that there were some federal candidates at the top of the ballot whose campaigns have so flooded television news programs that we’re not sure what the new Fords are going to look like.

Where will we be next week with the primary over? Well, there will be 10 Republicans and one Democrat elected for the 40-member Senate, and 34 Republicans and 12 Democrats, a total of 46 members of the 125-member House ready for the Statehouse prom.

What’s coming up as a result of filling the rest of those legislative seats three months from now? Well, it depends on just how much time voters want to spend figuring out how they want Kansas to emerge from not only the COVID-19 pandemic, but how much government they want in a year that is going to see a sharp reduction in state revenues caused by the pandemic…and who is going to pick up the tab for that shortfall.

No. 1, of course, will be a decision that was stymied in the Senate last session about expanding Medicaid in Kansas to more than 100,000 Kansans who don’t have health insurance, and thousands more who lost their health insurance when they lost their jobs due to the pandemic. The old GOP standard “get a job, get insured” has faded considerably because those jobs are now fading.

And the congenital debate over abortion remains a scrap over whether Kansans will put a leash on the Kansas Supreme Court, preventing it from having the final check-off on legislative attempts to restrict abortions in Kansas. Practically, that comes down to two battles: first, whether the Legislature on your behalf believes that abortion should be restricted, and second, whether a constitutional amendment to give lawmakers a free hand to limit the procedure will be offered in 2022, and on the same ballot as the governor -- or some special election before that where the decision will be made by a much smaller crowd of voters.

Oh, and then there’s that budget shortfall. Barring a $1 billion-or-so federal program that would allow the state to bolster its pandemic-shrunk budget, it’s likely to come down to what not to vote to spend money on, or who pays for maintaining current programs.

Let’s see, there’s always the State Highway Fund, or the “Bank of KDOT” that has been used in the past that essentially sees our highway system fade, or pulling money out of social programs, schools (if the Supreme Court allows it, and chances are slim there) or just simply raising taxes. That could range from a new income tax bracket atop the state’s three, to raising smaller taxes, like liquor, cigarettes, and some others that many don’t notice.

So, we’re hoping you had a good time at the primary election. The real decisions on what Kansas is going to look like are still to come, a result of the ongoing building this year of the 2021 Legislature.&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/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592848178110.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>Next week, we’ll know more of the folks who are going to the Statehouse Prom.Republican voters in five Senate districts will have made a primary election choice next Tuesday, putting those five winners on the November ballot without major party opposition. In the House, voters in 13 districts will have selected 10 Republicans and 3 Democrats for the general election ballot, and those 13 who won’t have a major party opponent.Oh, and in the Senate, there are five Republicans and one Democrat who won re-election when their filing check cleared the Secretary of State’s office on June 1, and in the&nbsp; House, there are 24 Republicans and 9 Democrats who have no major party opposition in the primary or general.So, this primary election? It was for just a handful of potential legislators—though us Statehouse habitués understand that there were some federal candidates at the top of the ballot whose campaigns have so flooded television news programs that we’re not sure what the new Fords are going to look like.Where will we be next week with the primary over? Well, there will be 10 Republicans and one Democrat elected for the 40-member Senate, and 34 Republicans and 12 Democrats, a total of 46 members of the 125-member House ready for the Statehouse prom.***What’s coming up as a result of filling the rest of those legislative seats three months from now? Well, it depends on just how much time voters want to spend figuring out how they want Kansas to emerge from not only the COVID-19 pandemic, but how much government they want in a year that is going to see a sharp reduction in state revenues caused by the pandemic…and who is going to pick up the tab for that shortfall.No. 1, of course, will be a decision that was stymied in the Senate last session about expanding Medicaid in Kansas to more than 100,000 Kansans who don’t have health insurance, and thousands more who lost their health insurance when they lost their jobs due to the pandemic. The old GOP standard “get a job, get insured” has faded considerably because those jobs are now fading.And the congenital debate over abortion remains a scrap over whether Kansans will put a leash on the Kansas Supreme Court, preventing it from having the final check-off on legislative attempts to restrict abortions in Kansas. Practically, that comes down to two battles: first, whether the Legislature on your behalf believes that abortion should be restricted, and second, whether a constitutional amendment to give lawmakers a free hand to limit the procedure will be offered in 2022, and on the same ballot as the governor -- or some special election before that where the decision will be made by a much smaller crowd of voters.Oh, and then there’s that budget shortfall. Barring a $1 billion-or-so federal program that would allow the state to bolster its pandemic-shrunk budget, it’s likely to come down to what not to vote to spend money on, or who pays for maintaining current programs.Let’s see, there’s always the State Highway Fund, or the “Bank of KDOT” that has been used in the past that essentially sees our highway system fade, or pulling money out of social programs, schools (if the Supreme Court allows it, and chances are slim there) or just simply raising taxes. That could range from a new income tax bracket atop the state’s three, to raising smaller taxes, like liquor, cigarettes, and some others that many don’t notice.So, we’re hoping you had a good time at the primary election. The real decisions on what Kansas is going to look like are still to come, a result of the ongoing building this year of the 2021 Legislature.&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/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

HAWVER: Shape of Legislature will be clearer after vote

These large (1-1/3- to 1-5/8-inch long) wasps fly slowly above the ground. Cicada killers have a black body with yellow marks across the thorax and abdomen. Wings are reddish-orange.&nbsp;

Although these wasps are huge, they usually ignore people. Males may act aggressively if they are threatened, but are unable to sting. Females can sting, but are so passive that they rarely do. Even if they do sting, the pain is less than that of smaller wasps such as the yellow jacket or paper wasp and is similar to the sting of a sweat bee.&nbsp;

The cicada killer is a solitary wasp rather than a social wasp like the yellow jacket. The female nests in burrows in the ground. These burrows are quarter-size in diameter and can go 6 inches straight down and another 6 inches horizontally. Adults normally live 60 to 75 days from mid-July to mid-September and feed on flower nectar and sap. The adult female seeks cicadas on the trunks and lower limbs of trees. She stings her prey, flips it over, straddles it and carries it to her burrow. If she has a tree to climb, she will climb the tree so they can get airborne and fly with cicada back to the nest. If not, she will drag it. She will lay one egg per cicada if the egg is left unfertilized. Unfertilized eggs develop into males only. Fertilized eggs develop into females and are given at least two cicadas. Cicadas are then stuffed into the female’s burrow. Each burrow normally has three to four cells with one to two cicadas in each. However, it is possible for one burrow to have 10 to 20 cells.&nbsp;

Eggs hatch in two to three days, and larvae begin feeding on paralyzed cicadas. Feeding continues for four to 10 days until only the outer shell of the cicada remains. The larva overwinters inside a silken case. Pupation occurs in the spring. There is one generation per year. Cicada killers are not dangerous, but they can be a nuisance. If you believe control is necessary, treat the burrows after dark to ensure the female wasps are in their nests. The males normally roost on plants near burrow sites. They can be captured with an insect net or knocked out of the air with a tennis racket during the day. &nbsp; Permethrin may be used for control.&nbsp; Products with permethrin include the following.

&nbsp; Eight Garden Dust - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Multipurpose Garden and Pet Dust - Green Thumb &nbsp; Garden, Pet &amp; Livestock Dust - Hi-Yield&nbsp;

&nbsp; 38 Plus Turf, Termite &amp; Ornamental Insect Spray - Hi-Yield&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Vegetable, Fruit &amp; Flower&nbsp; Conc. - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Yard &amp; Garden RTS - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Garden and Farm Insect Control- Hi-Yield

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595861237756.png" alt="Cicada killer wasp. Photo courtesy of Kansas State University." />
 <figcaption>Cicada killer wasp. Photo courtesy of Kansas State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>These large (1-1/3- to 1-5/8-inch long) wasps fly slowly above the ground. Cicada killers have a black body with yellow marks across the thorax and abdomen. Wings are reddish-orange.&nbsp;Although these wasps are huge, they usually ignore people. Males may act aggressively if they are threatened, but are unable to sting. Females can sting, but are so passive that they rarely do. Even if they do sting, the pain is less than that of smaller wasps such as the yellow jacket or paper wasp and is similar to the sting of a sweat bee.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>The cicada killer is a solitary wasp rather than a social wasp like the yellow jacket. The female nests in burrows in the ground. These burrows are quarter-size in diameter and can go 6 inches straight down and another 6 inches horizontally. Adults normally live 60 to 75 days from mid-July to mid-September and feed on flower nectar and sap. The adult female seeks cicadas on the trunks and lower limbs of trees. She stings her prey, flips it over, straddles it and carries it to her burrow. If she has a tree to climb, she will climb the tree so they can get airborne and fly with cicada back to the nest. If not, she will drag it. She will lay one egg per cicada if the egg is left unfertilized. Unfertilized eggs develop into males only. Fertilized eggs develop into females and are given at least two cicadas. Cicadas are then stuffed into the female’s burrow. Each burrow normally has three to four cells with one to two cicadas in each. However, it is possible for one burrow to have 10 to 20 cells.&nbsp;Eggs hatch in two to three days, and larvae begin feeding on paralyzed cicadas. Feeding continues for four to 10 days until only the outer shell of the cicada remains. The larva overwinters inside a silken case. Pupation occurs in the spring. There is one generation per year. Cicada killers are not dangerous, but they can be a nuisance. If you believe control is necessary, treat the burrows after dark to ensure the female wasps are in their nests. The males normally roost on plants near burrow sites. They can be captured with an insect net or knocked out of the air with a tennis racket during the day. &nbsp; Permethrin may be used for control.&nbsp; Products with permethrin include the following.<h2>Dusts</h2>&nbsp; Eight Garden Dust - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Multipurpose Garden and Pet Dust - Green Thumb &nbsp; Garden, Pet &amp; Livestock Dust - Hi-Yield&nbsp;<h2>Liquids</h2>&nbsp; 38 Plus Turf, Termite &amp; Ornamental Insect Spray - Hi-Yield&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Vegetable, Fruit &amp; Flower&nbsp; Conc. - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Yard &amp; Garden RTS - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Garden and Farm Insect Control- Hi-YieldLauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Cicada killer wasps

Whenever the First Amendment’s 45 words ring out, whenever a voice 
for justice seizes our attention by using its core freedoms to power our
 democracy, John Lewis will be there.

Lewis, 80, iconic civil right hero, longtime Georgia congressman, 
pugnacious fighter for voting rights, courageous Freedom Rider and 
self-described seeker of “good trouble” in the cause of equality, 
fairness and human rights, died July 17 after months of battling 
pancreatic cancer.

Few people in history have so exemplified the hopes of the nation’s 
founders that the First Amendment’s strong protection for the freedoms 
of religion, speech, press, assembly and petition would enable future 
generations to make this country a better place. Lewis was masterful in 
deploying those freedoms in that very work.

His public image was imprinted on the nation’s consciousness as he 
powerfully used the freedoms of religious belief, speech, press, the 
right to assemble and the right to petition the government for a 
“redress of grievances.” He did that from the early 1960s in sit-ins at 
Nashville lunch counters and the Freedom Rides challenging segregated 
bus terminals; from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the 1963 
March on Washington to 1965’s “Bloody Sunday” at the Edmund Pettus 
Bridge; from student civil rights organizer to more than 30 years in the
 United States House of Representatives, where he took on a mantle 
offered by others as the “Conscience of Congress.”

Lewis often spoke from the heart, but also joked that he had used his
 head in pursuit of social justice and the fight against racism – 
literally. When a planned 54-mile march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., 
to call for expanded voting rights for Black citizens ended in violence 
at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a state trooper beat Lewis with a 
nightstick so severely that it caused a skull fracture.

Images of that police riot – with Lewis’s fall captured in a dramatic
 photograph – shocked the nation and led to congressional approval of 
the landmark Voting Rights Act, signed into law a short time later by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Lewis spent his life challenging injustice where he saw it, whether 
on the street, in the boardroom or on the floor of the House.

He was arrested at least 45 times, including several times while 
serving in Congress. In 2016, Lewis helped lead a 26-hour sit-in on the 
House floor by Democrats frustrated by a lack of national response to 
gun violence in America.

Lewis did not live in his past days of activism nor dwell on his many
 accomplishments – and while he would always stand ready to forgive, he 
did not forget. Only months ago, he pledged to visit the nation’s 
southern border and be arrested once again, to protest immigration 
policies that he felt violated basic human rights.

The Associated Press reported Saturday that Lewis wept watching the video of George Floyd’s
 death at the hands of police in Minnesota: “I kept saying to myself: 
How many more? How many young Black men will be murdered?” Yet, the AP 
report said, he “declared, or at least dared to hope: ‘We’re one people,
 we’re one family. We all live in the same house, not just the American 
house but the world house’.”

On June 7, he visited the Black Lives Matter Plaza street painting in
 Washington, D.C., calling it a “powerful work of art” and saying it was
 “a mighty, powerful and strong message to the world that we will get 
there.”

Want to know the details of the life of this remarkable man? He 
co-wrote a graphic novel trilogy, “March,” with Andrew Aydin, about his 
life and the civil rights movement, published in 2013, with a sequel, 
“Run,” released in 2018. A documentary about Lewis titled “Good Trouble”
 was released in June, and he will be the subject of a new book out Aug.
 25 by acclaimed author Jon Meacham, “His Truth Is Marching On: John 
Lewis and the Power of Hope.”

In his public comments, Lewis spoke in measured tones softened with a
 Southern lilt, acquired he said, when preaching at a young age to the 
family chickens that were his chore to tend. He used that voice to 
create verbal images that will linger for some time.

The last living speaker from the 1963 March highlighted by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s
 “I Have a Dream” speech, Lewis was cajoled into toning down his planned
 criticism of the then-Kennedy administration’s civil rights record.

Nonetheless, Lewis, then just 23, energized the massive audience in 
advance of King’s remarks when he declared, “By the force of our 
demands, our determination and our numbers, we shall splinter the 
segregated South into a thousand pieces and put them together in the 
image of God and democracy.&nbsp;We must say: ‘Wake up, America!&nbsp;Wake up!’ 
For we cannot stop, and we will not and cannot be patient.”

Throughout his public service, Lewis never stopped encouraging others
 – particularly younger Americans – to “make some noise” via their 
freedoms of speech, reminding them to also gain attention through the 
news media.

Lewis often told listeners that, “If it had not been for the press, 
the civil rights movement would have been like a bird without wings.”

In 2017, the Freedom Forum, a nonpartisan foundation dedicated to 
fostering First Amendment freedoms for all, awarded Lewis a Free 
Expression Award for Lifetime Achievement. At one of several speeches at
 the Freedom Forum’s Newseum, Lewis said, “I don’t know where this 
nation would be, I don’t know where I would be today without the 
guarantees of the First Amendment.”

I suspect we all can answer those two rhetorical questions. Without 
the guarantees of the First Amendment, our nation would be poorer in 
spirit, equality and civic health.

And where would John Lewis be? I’ve no doubt – First Amendment or not
 – that he would be on the front lines of a righteous cause, bolstered 
by deep faith, forcefully speaking and writing, organizing and inspiring
 others to join that movement, while demanding justice for all.

A lifetime of public service that led to public good. A life that was
 unique, energized, engaged and inspiring. And a First Amendment freedom
 legacy for the ages.

Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the
 Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom
 Forum Institute. He can be reached at <a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593729871227.png" alt="Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute." />
 <figcaption>Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute.</figcaption>
 </figure>Whenever the First Amendment’s 45 words ring out, whenever a voice 
for justice seizes our attention by using its core freedoms to power our
 democracy, John Lewis will be there.Lewis, 80, iconic civil right hero, longtime Georgia congressman, 
pugnacious fighter for voting rights, courageous Freedom Rider and 
self-described seeker of “good trouble” in the cause of equality, 
fairness and human rights, died July 17 after months of battling 
pancreatic cancer.Few people in history have so exemplified the hopes of the nation’s 
founders that the First Amendment’s strong protection for the freedoms 
of religion, speech, press, assembly and petition would enable future 
generations to make this country a better place. Lewis was masterful in 
deploying those freedoms in that very work.His public image was imprinted on the nation’s consciousness as he 
powerfully used the freedoms of religious belief, speech, press, the 
right to assemble and the right to petition the government for a 
“redress of grievances.” He did that from the early 1960s in sit-ins at 
Nashville lunch counters and the Freedom Rides challenging segregated 
bus terminals; from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the 1963 
March on Washington to 1965’s “Bloody Sunday” at the Edmund Pettus 
Bridge; from student civil rights organizer to more than 30 years in the
 United States House of Representatives, where he took on a mantle 
offered by others as the “Conscience of Congress.”Lewis often spoke from the heart, but also joked that he had used his
 head in pursuit of social justice and the fight against racism – 
literally. When a planned 54-mile march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., 
to call for expanded voting rights for Black citizens ended in violence 
at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a state trooper beat Lewis with a 
nightstick so severely that it caused a skull fracture.Images of that police riot – with Lewis’s fall captured in a dramatic
 photograph – shocked the nation and led to congressional approval of 
the landmark Voting Rights Act, signed into law a short time later by President Lyndon B. Johnson.Lewis spent his life challenging injustice where he saw it, whether 
on the street, in the boardroom or on the floor of the House.He was arrested at least 45 times, including several times while 
serving in Congress. In 2016, Lewis helped lead a 26-hour sit-in on the 
House floor by Democrats frustrated by a lack of national response to 
gun violence in America.Lewis did not live in his past days of activism nor dwell on his many
 accomplishments – and while he would always stand ready to forgive, he 
did not forget. Only months ago, he pledged to visit the nation’s 
southern border and be arrested once again, to protest immigration 
policies that he felt violated basic human rights.The Associated Press reported Saturday that Lewis wept watching the video of George Floyd’s
 death at the hands of police in Minnesota: “I kept saying to myself: 
How many more? How many young Black men will be murdered?” Yet, the AP 
report said, he “declared, or at least dared to hope: ‘We’re one people,
 we’re one family. We all live in the same house, not just the American 
house but the world house’.”On June 7, he visited the Black Lives Matter Plaza street painting in
 Washington, D.C., calling it a “powerful work of art” and saying it was
 “a mighty, powerful and strong message to the world that we will get 
there.”Want to know the details of the life of this remarkable man? He 
co-wrote a graphic novel trilogy, “March,” with Andrew Aydin, about his 
life and the civil rights movement, published in 2013, with a sequel, 
“Run,” released in 2018. A documentary about Lewis titled “Good Trouble”
 was released in June, and he will be the subject of a new book out Aug.
 25 by acclaimed author Jon Meacham, “His Truth Is Marching On: John 
Lewis and the Power of Hope.”In his public comments, Lewis spoke in measured tones softened with a
 Southern lilt, acquired he said, when preaching at a young age to the 
family chickens that were his chore to tend. He used that voice to 
create verbal images that will linger for some time.The last living speaker from the 1963 March highlighted by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s
 “I Have a Dream” speech, Lewis was cajoled into toning down his planned
 criticism of the then-Kennedy administration’s civil rights record.Nonetheless, Lewis, then just 23, energized the massive audience in 
advance of King’s remarks when he declared, “By the force of our 
demands, our determination and our numbers, we shall splinter the 
segregated South into a thousand pieces and put them together in the 
image of God and democracy.&nbsp;We must say: ‘Wake up, America!&nbsp;Wake up!’ 
For we cannot stop, and we will not and cannot be patient.”Throughout his public service, Lewis never stopped encouraging others
 – particularly younger Americans – to “make some noise” via their 
freedoms of speech, reminding them to also gain attention through the 
news media.Lewis often told listeners that, “If it had not been for the press, 
the civil rights movement would have been like a bird without wings.”In 2017, the Freedom Forum, a nonpartisan foundation dedicated to 
fostering First Amendment freedoms for all, awarded Lewis a Free 
Expression Award for Lifetime Achievement. At one of several speeches at
 the Freedom Forum’s Newseum, Lewis said, “I don’t know where this 
nation would be, I don’t know where I would be today without the 
guarantees of the First Amendment.”I suspect we all can answer those two rhetorical questions. Without 
the guarantees of the First Amendment, our nation would be poorer in 
spirit, equality and civic health.And where would John Lewis be? I’ve no doubt – First Amendment or not
 – that he would be on the front lines of a righteous cause, bolstered 
by deep faith, forcefully speaking and writing, organizing and inspiring
 others to join that movement, while demanding justice for all.A lifetime of public service that led to public good. A life that was
 unique, energized, engaged and inspiring. And a First Amendment freedom
 legacy for the ages.Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the
 Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom
 Forum Institute. He can be reached at <a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

FIRST FIVE: U.S. Rep. Lewis was a First Amendment champion

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

“Never underestimate the power of youth.” That is the phrase used by an extension agent whose 4-H youth helped conduct an innovative livestock show entirely using technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lacey Noterman is a livestock and youth extension agent for the K-State Research and Extension Wild West District, serving Haskell, Seward and Stevens counties in southwest Kansas. A native of Dighton, she was on the livestock judging team at Fort Hays State before joining the extension service in Haskell County.&nbsp;

In 2016, Lacey helped launch a 4-H livestock ambassador program in Haskell County. This was intended to give youth a bigger voice in livestock-related 4-H activities and help prepare them as advocates for animal agriculture. Ambassadors are selected annually by the livestock show and sale committee. “(To avoid favoritism,) I remove the names from the applications and then the committee makes the selection,” Lacey said.&nbsp;

Each year the ambassadors conduct a community service project, communicate with other members and families, and help with county fair and related projects. In October 2019, a new class was selected consisting of Ashley Kennedy, Sean Wagner, Dalton Winfrey, Kara Kunselman, and Bailey Briggs. They represented communities in the area such as Sublette, Satanta, Copeland and Moscow, a rural community of 310 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

This group was preparing for Haskell County’s 2020 spring livestock show when the pandemic forced its cancellation – a major disappointment.&nbsp;

“The kids came to me in March and suggested that we should have a virtual spring livestock show,” Lacey said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I told them, ‘Go for it.’”&nbsp;

What in the world is a virtual livestock show? It consists of video entries depicting a 4-H or FFA youth displaying their animal, which is evaluated by a judge just like in a regular show. The judges evaluate the livestock, decide on placings in each class, and then give oral reasons for their placings. In this case, the evaluation is done based on videos submitted by the youth and posted on Facebook, and the reasons are recorded in an audio file to be played during the virtual show.&nbsp;

This required lots of technology. “They had to teach Lacey all of this,” Lacey said with a smile. They used a program called Animoto for video editing, Google Classroom for registrations, Paypal to handle fees, and Facebook to view the show.&nbsp;

“The kids were amazing,” Lacey said. “They created the registration form in less than an hour, did a lot of the work, and were constantly promoting it on social media,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The show was open to 4-H and FFA members across Kansas. Entries were due by May 25. Ultimately, 221 head of livestock were entered. The results were posted on June 9.&nbsp;

“The judges were so great to work with,” Lacey said. They recorded their reasons so that every exhibitor got feedback about his or her animal. “That’s the purpose of a spring show, to help our kids learn and get better,” Lacey said.&nbsp;

The project was definitely time-intensive. “It was much more time-consuming than hosting a live show,” Lacey said. Since there were five judges and five ambassadors, she assigned each ambassador to work with a particular judge. “They learned a ton of life skills,” Lacey said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was awesome to work with this group of kids,” she said. “They still had their online classes to finish too,” she pointed out. “Not only did they excel on the technology side, they excelled and exceeded my expectations in working with the community,” she said.&nbsp;

Due to the restrictions of the pandemic, Lacey was not available to meet with the youth in person.&nbsp;

“This was their baby,” Lacey said. “It forced me to step back, and I got to see what these kids could do,” she said. “It was the best learning experience of my career as a county agent,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Never underestimate the power of youth,” Lacey said in describing the county 4-H livestock ambassadors who carried out this idea. We salute Lacey Noterman, Ashley Kennedy, Sean Wagner, Dalton Winfrey, Kara Kunselman, and Bailey Briggs for making a difference with their innovative project. Their results are powerful.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595422934273.png" alt="K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Never underestimate the power of youth.” That is the phrase used by an extension agent whose 4-H youth helped conduct an innovative livestock show entirely using technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lacey Noterman is a livestock and youth extension agent for the K-State Research and Extension Wild West District, serving Haskell, Seward and Stevens counties in southwest Kansas. A native of Dighton, she was on the livestock judging team at Fort Hays State before joining the extension service in Haskell County.&nbsp;In 2016, Lacey helped launch a 4-H livestock ambassador program in Haskell County. This was intended to give youth a bigger voice in livestock-related 4-H activities and help prepare them as advocates for animal agriculture. Ambassadors are selected annually by the livestock show and sale committee. “(To avoid favoritism,) I remove the names from the applications and then the committee makes the selection,” Lacey said.&nbsp;Each year the ambassadors conduct a community service project, communicate with other members and families, and help with county fair and related projects. In October 2019, a new class was selected consisting of Ashley Kennedy, Sean Wagner, Dalton Winfrey, Kara Kunselman, and Bailey Briggs. They represented communities in the area such as Sublette, Satanta, Copeland and Moscow, a rural community of 310 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;This group was preparing for Haskell County’s 2020 spring livestock show when the pandemic forced its cancellation – a major disappointment.&nbsp;“The kids came to me in March and suggested that we should have a virtual spring livestock show,” Lacey said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I told them, ‘Go for it.’”&nbsp;What in the world is a virtual livestock show? It consists of video entries depicting a 4-H or FFA youth displaying their animal, which is evaluated by a judge just like in a regular show. The judges evaluate the livestock, decide on placings in each class, and then give oral reasons for their placings. In this case, the evaluation is done based on videos submitted by the youth and posted on Facebook, and the reasons are recorded in an audio file to be played during the virtual show.&nbsp;This required lots of technology. “They had to teach Lacey all of this,” Lacey said with a smile. They used a program called Animoto for video editing, Google Classroom for registrations, Paypal to handle fees, and Facebook to view the show.&nbsp;“The kids were amazing,” Lacey said. “They created the registration form in less than an hour, did a lot of the work, and were constantly promoting it on social media,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The show was open to 4-H and FFA members across Kansas. Entries were due by May 25. Ultimately, 221 head of livestock were entered. The results were posted on June 9.&nbsp;“The judges were so great to work with,” Lacey said. They recorded their reasons so that every exhibitor got feedback about his or her animal. “That’s the purpose of a spring show, to help our kids learn and get better,” Lacey said.&nbsp;The project was definitely time-intensive. “It was much more time-consuming than hosting a live show,” Lacey said. Since there were five judges and five ambassadors, she assigned each ambassador to work with a particular judge. “They learned a ton of life skills,” Lacey said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It was awesome to work with this group of kids,” she said. “They still had their online classes to finish too,” she pointed out. “Not only did they excel on the technology side, they excelled and exceeded my expectations in working with the community,” she said.&nbsp;Due to the restrictions of the pandemic, Lacey was not available to meet with the youth in person.&nbsp;“This was their baby,” Lacey said. “It forced me to step back, and I got to see what these kids could do,” she said. “It was the best learning experience of my career as a county agent,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Never underestimate the power of youth,” Lacey said in describing the county 4-H livestock ambassadors who carried out this idea. We salute Lacey Noterman, Ashley Kennedy, Sean Wagner, Dalton Winfrey, Kara Kunselman, and Bailey Briggs for making a difference with their innovative project. Their results are powerful.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Lacey Noterman, virtual livestock show 

In less than two weeks, Kansas will face another coronavirus-related test: an election under pandemic conditions. How will we fare? That depends on state and county preparation, of course–but it also depends on voter preparation as well.&nbsp;

Say you plan to vote on the day of the election. Do you know where your assigned polling place is? Many Kansas counties have reduced their number of voting locations, moving them to larger spaces where social distancing can be maintained. If you plan to vote in person on August 4, check to be certain of where you need to go.

If you vote in person, will your government-issued ID be accepted? Since the government shutdown included DMV offices across the state, and since the great majority of voters rely upon their driver’s license to identify themselves, this has created a real problem, especially in smaller counties. The post-re-opening rush by Kansans who need their driver’s licenses renewed has resulted in backlogs stretching well into autumn–and in some rural locations DMV offices haven’t re-opened at all, or only with reduced hours. And this is even assuming one has no problem getting to a DMV in person, or has the ability and access to renew online.

Governor Kelly ordered&nbsp; that certain dated licenses be counted as valid for the time being, but anyone familiar with the long lines and confusion that sometimes attends certain polling places might have good reason to suspect that the governor’s order may not be fully understood by every poll worker. This is particularly a concern in poorer counties, where staffing and proper training are sometimes a struggle even in non-pandemic times. If you’re a voter who has not been able to renew your government identification due to quarantine or closed DMV offices or other reasons, keep the Kansas Secretary of State’s website–which prominently posts an excerpt from the governor’s order–handy, and be ready to insist upon the validity of your ID.

How about voting by mail? For obvious reasons, this year requests for absentee ballots have skyrocketed, with the SoS’s office having already approved five times as many absentee ballot requests as in 2018. So great are the numbers that election officials have expressed concerns about having the people and procedures in place to handle the mail.

In some states, such a large number of mailed-in ballots is routine; Washington state, where I was born and grew up, has had mail-only voting for years. But here in Kansas, with a Republican base that frequently reflected the mostly groundless criticisms of mail voting by President Trump and Senate hopeful Kris Kobach, there is some reason for fear.

First-time mail-in voter are more likely to see their ballots disregarded because the routine is so different from what they are used to. If you’re a first-time ballot-by-mail voter, take the time to follow all the instructions carefully, including signing both your ballot and the envelope in the marked space.&nbsp;

The upcoming primary election will be a new experience for many Kansans. In some states’ elections during this pandemic have been chaotic messes of confusion and corruption. With luck, and by keeping in mind some key information, it won’t have to be that way here.&nbsp;

Dr. Russell Arben Fox runs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita.

CORRECTED 1:20 p.m. Wednesday to clarify voting procedure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586443443315.jpeg" alt="Professor Russell Arben Fox directs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita, KS." />
 <figcaption>Professor Russell Arben Fox directs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita, KS.</figcaption>
 </figure>In less than two weeks, Kansas will face another coronavirus-related test: an election under pandemic conditions. How will we fare? That depends on state and county preparation, of course–but it also depends on voter preparation as well.&nbsp;Say you plan to vote on the day of the election. Do you know where your assigned polling place is? Many Kansas counties have reduced their number of voting locations, moving them to larger spaces where social distancing can be maintained. If you plan to vote in person on August 4, check to be certain of where you need to go.If you vote in person, will your government-issued ID be accepted? Since the government shutdown included DMV offices across the state, and since the great majority of voters rely upon their driver’s license to identify themselves, this has created a real problem, especially in smaller counties. The post-re-opening rush by Kansans who need their driver’s licenses renewed has resulted in backlogs stretching well into autumn–and in some rural locations DMV offices haven’t re-opened at all, or only with reduced hours. And this is even assuming one has no problem getting to a DMV in person, or has the ability and access to renew online.Governor Kelly ordered&nbsp; that certain dated licenses be counted as valid for the time being, but anyone familiar with the long lines and confusion that sometimes attends certain polling places might have good reason to suspect that the governor’s order may not be fully understood by every poll worker. This is particularly a concern in poorer counties, where staffing and proper training are sometimes a struggle even in non-pandemic times. If you’re a voter who has not been able to renew your government identification due to quarantine or closed DMV offices or other reasons, keep the Kansas Secretary of State’s website–which prominently posts an excerpt from the governor’s order–handy, and be ready to insist upon the validity of your ID.How about voting by mail? For obvious reasons, this year requests for absentee ballots have skyrocketed, with the SoS’s office having already approved five times as many absentee ballot requests as in 2018. So great are the numbers that election officials have expressed concerns about having the people and procedures in place to handle the mail.In some states, such a large number of mailed-in ballots is routine; Washington state, where I was born and grew up, has had mail-only voting for years. But here in Kansas, with a Republican base that frequently reflected the mostly groundless criticisms of mail voting by President Trump and Senate hopeful Kris Kobach, there is some reason for fear.First-time mail-in voter are more likely to see their ballots disregarded because the routine is so different from what they are used to. If you’re a first-time ballot-by-mail voter, take the time to follow all the instructions carefully, including signing both your ballot and the envelope in the marked space.&nbsp;The upcoming primary election will be a new experience for many Kansans. In some states’ elections during this pandemic have been chaotic messes of confusion and corruption. With luck, and by keeping in mind some key information, it won’t have to be that way here.&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox runs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita.CORRECTED 1:20 p.m. Wednesday to clarify voting procedure.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Preparing for a pandemic election

In case this is the first time you are hearing about me or this particular race, my name is Robert Anderson Jr., and I am running to be your next County Attorney. There has been a considerable amount of opinion letters, mailers, social media posts, and even videos about the Ellis County Attorney’s race. Some of what has been said is true, some is false, and some things I have no personal knowledge of. I have tried to stay out of the “mudslinging." However, I MUST share my side of this story. I know this letter is lengthy, but I hope you will read through to the end. It is critical that you are aware of this information before casting a vote in this year’s primary election.

On July 17, 2020, my opponent released an opinion piece in the Hays Post and sent a second campaign mailer that followed this week. In both publications, my opponent, Chris Lyon, implied that I was omitting information from you because it “doesn’t help my campaign” and accused me of spreading “Fake News." He gave you his set of “True Facts” surrounding his living situation. As true as they may be, they are incomplete and wanting. I will address this first and foremost. Second, I will address my experience. Third, I will address the budget and why you should choose me to be your next County Attorney.

It’s true: I have not been able to accurately keep you, the citizens of Ellis County, apprised of where Mr. Lyon is, where he plans to go next, how long he plans to be there, and with whom he plans to be with. Truthfully, I didn’t know that it was my duty to decipher his actions and words and then deliver a clear-cut answer to that quagmire.&nbsp;

I have chosen the words I have used in my campaign VERY deliberately. I have stated on my campaign materials that Chris Lyon does not live here full-time so as to be truthful and accurate throughout this process. Here is what Mr. Lyon had to say about my campaign materials in a text message conversation on July 10, 2020: “Thanks for being careful about the wording. I looked at your campaign material and you were professional and courteous."&nbsp;

Since Chris evidently expects me to report on his most up-to-date plans, and in the interest of transparency, here is what I know as of today:

From January 28, 2020, until around June 8, 2020 (the day Chris officially re-entered this race), Chris Lyon’s <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e3207427d7daa72b30ec0b9">public intention was to move his family to Kansas City</a>. I believe he also shared with some people, but not the general public, that it was his intent to search for a small home in WaKeeney, Kansas so that he could split his time between Kansas City and WaKeeney while fulfilling his duties as Trego County Attorney, Hays City Prosecutor, City of WaKeeney Prosecutor, and whatever other jobs he holds.&nbsp;

It appeared, based upon his actions, that this was exactly what his intent was. His home at 3001 Thunderbird Drive, Hays, Kansas, was put on the market. Then, in March, Mr. Lyon and his wife purchased a home in Overland Park, Kansas. All of this in line with his publicly stated intent.&nbsp;

It is true that in the July 10th text message conversation between Chris and myself, Chris did reveal to me that his family health situation had gotten better and that he and his wife were looking to buy a house in the area after the primary. His exact words were: “After the primary we are going to buy another house in the area. My [family situation] has drastically improved.” He goes on to say that “[the] family health stuff is private please [so don’t share it]”. So, even now, I am trying to balance respecting his wishes for privacy and defending myself against his claims of spreading “fake news." Surely you can understand and appreciate my frustration. &nbsp;

As Chris stated in his July 17th opinion letter in the Hays Post, his home at 3001 Thunderbird Drive, Hays, Kansas, sold on July 2, 2020.&nbsp;

What I find fascinating is that Chris, being on the ballot in three counties (Ellis, Trego, &amp; Gove) and knowing that his race in Ellis County would be hotly contested, had from June 8th or thereabouts until July 2, 2020 to take his home OFF the market and ensure that he maintained a residence here. He knew that my message was: “Chris Lyon does not live here full-time; he has six other jobs; he cannot commit to this job full-time; I am your only full-time option."&nbsp; Despite all of that, he went ahead and sold his home on July 2nd.&nbsp;

The likely explanation, while I cannot prove it because I am not a mind reader, is that he intended to find a small home in “the area” and split his time between Kansas City and “the area” – which again, was his stated intention since back in January.

Fifteen days after Mr. Lyon sells his home in Hays, he writes his opinion piece in which he tries to persuade you, the citizens of Ellis County, to believe that he’s coming right back. He follows up with a second mailer, around 20 days after selling his home, asking you to believe that he’s coming right back.

His actions and his words are not clear. So, my attempt to explain his intentions moving forward are futile. All I can do is ask questions. The questions I hope you are also asking.&nbsp;

Mr. Lyon states that he and his wife are looking for a home “in the area." What does that mean? In Hays? In Ellis County? Is this “area” contingent upon whether or not you win the primary? Will you be selling the home in Overland Park that you purchased three months ago? Are you moving to “the area” full-time or will you be splitting your time with some other place? Why did you sell your home in Hays 20-some days ago?

Furthermore, he stated that his family situation has improved “leaving [him] the time [he] needs to run the Ellis County Attorney’s Office." OK, I have more questions: you have the time needed? How much time is that exactly? Full-time? Why didn’t you say full-time? Is it part-time? Are you quitting your other jobs?

Nothing has changed, my message remains the same: I, Robert Anderson, Jr., am your ONLY FULL-TIME option for this position. Even if Chris Lyon and his family purchase a home adjacent to the Ellis County Courthouse, his several other government jobs do not allow him to commit to the Ellis County Attorney’s Office full-time. That is the real news.

I’m sure a lot of you received two political mailers from my opponent by now. Did you see?! He’s “The Only Experienced Candidate!” This is a bold-faced lie.

He could have put “The Only Experienced Prosecutor” and even that would have been inaccurate.&nbsp;

I am experienced and highly skilled. I have handled thousands of legal cases. I have spent thousands of hours in the courtroom. I am trained to spot the same legal issues and make the same legal arguments as a prosecutor. It does not matter which side of the courtroom I sit on.&nbsp; I am undefeated in felony jury trials (something very few attorneys can say – certainly not Mr. Lyon).&nbsp; I have primarily defended cases, but I have also acted as a special prosecutor and have even served as a municipal judge. I have spent five years handling ALL of the types of cases that the Ellis County Attorney’s Office files. To suggest that I have no experience is, again, a bold-faced lie.

You want to know what Chris Lyon really thinks about my experience?

Chris had no issue with my experience, or supposed lack thereof, when he begged me to run for Ellis County Attorney in January. Chris had no issue with my experience, or supposed lack thereof, when he deputized me as an “Assistant Trego County Attorney” and left me to handle anything that popped up in his jurisdiction while he was on vacation last year. At least one case, to my recollection, did pop up and was handled without issue or the need for Chris to come rushing home.

In a couple of phone conversations with Chris around June 4th or 5th and on June 8th, when Chris was deciding if he was truly going to get back in this race, he suggested that one possible outcome was: if he won, he would hire me as an Assistant Ellis County Attorney. He even suggested that he would be willing to pay me more than his own salary (which would be more than anyone in that office is paid or has ever been paid). That’s what he truly thinks of me.

The only area in which I truly have no experience is, as Mr. Lyon stated, with writing a budget for a public office. All of my experience comes from the private sector, where I’ve operated my own business that I’ve built from the ground up. I’ve had to write my budgets not knowing how much money will be available to me (unlike a government budget). I’ve had to save for rainy days. I’ve had to spend wisely and conservatively. I’ve had to work efficiently. I’ve had to succeed or fail based upon MY performance.&nbsp;

Since we’re on the topic of the budget, let’s talk about item III.&nbsp;

Chris Lyon’s campaign brags that he can save the taxpayers over $100,000.00! That would be quite impressive…if the current County Attorney, Tom Drees, hadn’t already proposed a $90,000 cut approximately four months ago (which was set aside for the next County Attorney to use or not use). So, both Chris and I have the ability to snap our fingers on day one and “save the taxpayers $90,000." You just won’t hear me acting like it was my idea or that I’ve written some new wonderful plan.&nbsp;

Another thing Chris Lyon won’t tell you is that when Tom Drees proposed that cut a few months back, Chris called me FURIOUS about it. I remained calm and explained that I would be willing to work within whatever budget that was passed by our commissioners.&nbsp;

Saving taxpayer money is extremely important to me. I hate paying taxes, but I understand it is necessary. I don’t want to wastefully spend a single penny. That’s why I have created a two-pronged plan to save taxpayer dollars through a decrease in the budget AND through policies that will lessen the costs associated with housing inmates in jail and prison.&nbsp;

What you need to understand about the proposed Ellis County Attorney’s Office budget for 2021 is that 95% of it ($739,282 of the $777,282) is salaries and benefits. So, when we talk about making any significant changes to that budget, what we are really talking about is hiring and firing people. And, to some degree, when we talk about hiring and firing people, what we are talking about is our ability to prosecute cases. Each year, there are more police reports made than cases prosecuted. This is what creates “backlog." Backlog can be thought of as accumulated work debt.&nbsp;

As your next County Attorney, I promise that the number of cases prosecuted will increase without a rise in costs for the taxpayers. This will be executed through the new policies I will implement AND because I, personally, will be in that office AT LEAST 40 hours a week. I am the only one who can increase the number of cases prosecuted without increasing the budget because I am the only one committed to this job full-time. I am your only chance to increase or maintain public safety without an increase in costs.&nbsp;

As a citizen of this county, I care deeply about this community. I am invested. I am your only full-time option. Mr. Lyon is willing to say anything to earn your vote, but ask yourself: “What has he DONE to earn your vote – what has he actually committed himself to?”&nbsp;

Please, use your common sense. When you go to the polls on August 4th, vote for the only full-time option, Robert Anderson, Jr. for Ellis County Attorney.&nbsp;

Robert Anderson Jr., candidate for Ellis County Attorney

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Citizens of Ellis County,In case this is the first time you are hearing about me or this particular race, my name is Robert Anderson Jr., and I am running to be your next County Attorney. There has been a considerable amount of opinion letters, mailers, social media posts, and even videos about the Ellis County Attorney’s race. Some of what has been said is true, some is false, and some things I have no personal knowledge of. I have tried to stay out of the “mudslinging." However, I MUST share my side of this story. I know this letter is lengthy, but I hope you will read through to the end. It is critical that you are aware of this information before casting a vote in this year’s primary election.On July 17, 2020, my opponent released an opinion piece in the Hays Post and sent a second campaign mailer that followed this week. In both publications, my opponent, Chris Lyon, implied that I was omitting information from you because it “doesn’t help my campaign” and accused me of spreading “Fake News." He gave you his set of “True Facts” surrounding his living situation. As true as they may be, they are incomplete and wanting. I will address this first and foremost. Second, I will address my experience. Third, I will address the budget and why you should choose me to be your next County Attorney.<ol>
 <li>Robert Anderson has failed to inform the electorate of Chris Lyon’s intention regarding where he will live, when he will live there, how long he will live there, and with whom he will be living.</li>
 </ol>It’s true: I have not been able to accurately keep you, the citizens of Ellis County, apprised of where Mr. Lyon is, where he plans to go next, how long he plans to be there, and with whom he plans to be with. Truthfully, I didn’t know that it was my duty to decipher his actions and words and then deliver a clear-cut answer to that quagmire.&nbsp;I have chosen the words I have used in my campaign VERY deliberately. I have stated on my campaign materials that Chris Lyon does not live here full-time so as to be truthful and accurate throughout this process. Here is what Mr. Lyon had to say about my campaign materials in a text message conversation on July 10, 2020: “Thanks for being careful about the wording. I looked at your campaign material and you were professional and courteous."&nbsp;Since Chris evidently expects me to report on his most up-to-date plans, and in the interest of transparency, here is what I know as of today:From January 28, 2020, until around June 8, 2020 (the day Chris officially re-entered this race), Chris Lyon’s <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e3207427d7daa72b30ec0b9">public intention was to move his family to Kansas City</a>. I believe he also shared with some people, but not the general public, that it was his intent to search for a small home in WaKeeney, Kansas so that he could split his time between Kansas City and WaKeeney while fulfilling his duties as Trego County Attorney, Hays City Prosecutor, City of WaKeeney Prosecutor, and whatever other jobs he holds.&nbsp;It appeared, based upon his actions, that this was exactly what his intent was. His home at 3001 Thunderbird Drive, Hays, Kansas, was put on the market. Then, in March, Mr. Lyon and his wife purchased a home in Overland Park, Kansas. All of this in line with his publicly stated intent.&nbsp;It is true that in the July 10th text message conversation between Chris and myself, Chris did reveal to me that his family health situation had gotten better and that he and his wife were looking to buy a house in the area after the primary. His exact words were: “After the primary we are going to buy another house in the area. My [family situation] has drastically improved.” He goes on to say that “[the] family health stuff is private please [so don’t share it]”. So, even now, I am trying to balance respecting his wishes for privacy and defending myself against his claims of spreading “fake news." Surely you can understand and appreciate my frustration. &nbsp;As Chris stated in his July 17th opinion letter in the Hays Post, his home at 3001 Thunderbird Drive, Hays, Kansas, sold on July 2, 2020.&nbsp;What I find fascinating is that Chris, being on the ballot in three counties (Ellis, Trego, &amp; Gove) and knowing that his race in Ellis County would be hotly contested, had from June 8th or thereabouts until July 2, 2020 to take his home OFF the market and ensure that he maintained a residence here. He knew that my message was: “Chris Lyon does not live here full-time; he has six other jobs; he cannot commit to this job full-time; I am your only full-time option."&nbsp; Despite all of that, he went ahead and sold his home on July 2nd.&nbsp;The likely explanation, while I cannot prove it because I am not a mind reader, is that he intended to find a small home in “the area” and split his time between Kansas City and “the area” – which again, was his stated intention since back in January.Fifteen days after Mr. Lyon sells his home in Hays, he writes his opinion piece in which he tries to persuade you, the citizens of Ellis County, to believe that he’s coming right back. He follows up with a second mailer, around 20 days after selling his home, asking you to believe that he’s coming right back.His actions and his words are not clear. So, my attempt to explain his intentions moving forward are futile. All I can do is ask questions. The questions I hope you are also asking.&nbsp;Mr. Lyon states that he and his wife are looking for a home “in the area." What does that mean? In Hays? In Ellis County? Is this “area” contingent upon whether or not you win the primary? Will you be selling the home in Overland Park that you purchased three months ago? Are you moving to “the area” full-time or will you be splitting your time with some other place? Why did you sell your home in Hays 20-some days ago?Furthermore, he stated that his family situation has improved “leaving [him] the time [he] needs to run the Ellis County Attorney’s Office." OK, I have more questions: you have the time needed? How much time is that exactly? Full-time? Why didn’t you say full-time? Is it part-time? Are you quitting your other jobs?Nothing has changed, my message remains the same: I, Robert Anderson, Jr., am your ONLY FULL-TIME option for this position. Even if Chris Lyon and his family purchase a home adjacent to the Ellis County Courthouse, his several other government jobs do not allow him to commit to the Ellis County Attorney’s Office full-time. That is the real news.<ol>
 <li>Experience – Is Chris Lyon the “Only Experienced Candidate”?!</li>
 </ol>I’m sure a lot of you received two political mailers from my opponent by now. Did you see?! He’s “The Only Experienced Candidate!” This is a bold-faced lie.He could have put “The Only Experienced Prosecutor” and even that would have been inaccurate.&nbsp;I am experienced and highly skilled. I have handled thousands of legal cases. I have spent thousands of hours in the courtroom. I am trained to spot the same legal issues and make the same legal arguments as a prosecutor. It does not matter which side of the courtroom I sit on.&nbsp; I am undefeated in felony jury trials (something very few attorneys can say – certainly not Mr. Lyon).&nbsp; I have primarily defended cases, but I have also acted as a special prosecutor and have even served as a municipal judge. I have spent five years handling ALL of the types of cases that the Ellis County Attorney’s Office files. To suggest that I have no experience is, again, a bold-faced lie.You want to know what Chris Lyon really thinks about my experience?Chris had no issue with my experience, or supposed lack thereof, when he begged me to run for Ellis County Attorney in January. Chris had no issue with my experience, or supposed lack thereof, when he deputized me as an “Assistant Trego County Attorney” and left me to handle anything that popped up in his jurisdiction while he was on vacation last year. At least one case, to my recollection, did pop up and was handled without issue or the need for Chris to come rushing home.In a couple of phone conversations with Chris around June 4th or 5th and on June 8th, when Chris was deciding if he was truly going to get back in this race, he suggested that one possible outcome was: if he won, he would hire me as an Assistant Ellis County Attorney. He even suggested that he would be willing to pay me more than his own salary (which would be more than anyone in that office is paid or has ever been paid). That’s what he truly thinks of me.The only area in which I truly have no experience is, as Mr. Lyon stated, with writing a budget for a public office. All of my experience comes from the private sector, where I’ve operated my own business that I’ve built from the ground up. I’ve had to write my budgets not knowing how much money will be available to me (unlike a government budget). I’ve had to save for rainy days. I’ve had to spend wisely and conservatively. I’ve had to work efficiently. I’ve had to succeed or fail based upon MY performance.&nbsp;Since we’re on the topic of the budget, let’s talk about item III.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>The Budget &amp; what Chris Lyon won’t tell you</li>
 </ol>Chris Lyon’s campaign brags that he can save the taxpayers over $100,000.00! That would be quite impressive…if the current County Attorney, Tom Drees, hadn’t already proposed a $90,000 cut approximately four months ago (which was set aside for the next County Attorney to use or not use). So, both Chris and I have the ability to snap our fingers on day one and “save the taxpayers $90,000." You just won’t hear me acting like it was my idea or that I’ve written some new wonderful plan.&nbsp;Another thing Chris Lyon won’t tell you is that when Tom Drees proposed that cut a few months back, Chris called me FURIOUS about it. I remained calm and explained that I would be willing to work within whatever budget that was passed by our commissioners.&nbsp;Saving taxpayer money is extremely important to me. I hate paying taxes, but I understand it is necessary. I don’t want to wastefully spend a single penny. That’s why I have created a two-pronged plan to save taxpayer dollars through a decrease in the budget AND through policies that will lessen the costs associated with housing inmates in jail and prison.&nbsp;What you need to understand about the proposed Ellis County Attorney’s Office budget for 2021 is that 95% of it ($739,282 of the $777,282) is salaries and benefits. So, when we talk about making any significant changes to that budget, what we are really talking about is hiring and firing people. And, to some degree, when we talk about hiring and firing people, what we are talking about is our ability to prosecute cases. Each year, there are more police reports made than cases prosecuted. This is what creates “backlog." Backlog can be thought of as accumulated work debt.&nbsp;As your next County Attorney, I promise that the number of cases prosecuted will increase without a rise in costs for the taxpayers. This will be executed through the new policies I will implement AND because I, personally, will be in that office AT LEAST 40 hours a week. I am the only one who can increase the number of cases prosecuted without increasing the budget because I am the only one committed to this job full-time. I am your only chance to increase or maintain public safety without an increase in costs.&nbsp;As a citizen of this county, I care deeply about this community. I am invested. I am your only full-time option. Mr. Lyon is willing to say anything to earn your vote, but ask yourself: “What has he DONE to earn your vote – what has he actually committed himself to?”&nbsp;Please, use your common sense. When you go to the polls on August 4th, vote for the only full-time option, Robert Anderson, Jr. for Ellis County Attorney.&nbsp;Robert Anderson Jr., candidate for Ellis County Attorney

LETTER: Ellis Co. Attorney candidate's view of race

My name is Laura Allen.&nbsp; I am the Democratic write in candidate for the August 4th Primary election. I want to be your Ellis County Clerk. I want to work with other county officials to make sure that we are doing what is best for Ellis County and its residents. As Clerk, transparency and engagement are key. Each Ellis County resident should feel as if they matter when it comes to the workings of our county and those that represent us.&nbsp;

Advance ballots have been sent, and many have been returned. Not as many as should have been returned because our Election Office has, again, dropped the ball. For instance, instead of using a mailing permit for the return envelope, the Clerk left it to us to pay postage.&nbsp; How much?&nbsp; $1.20! WHY? &nbsp; When the County conducted the Sales Tax Election and wanted everyone to vote so it could impose more taxes, the Clerk made sure the postage was prepaid.&nbsp; Now, even though the federal government would reimburse for the postage, she makes us buy stamps.&nbsp; This is to suppress turnout so the insiders can manipulate the results.&nbsp; They don’t really want us to return these ballots.&nbsp; In the midst of a pandemic, they should encourage voters to vote in the most convenient, safest way possible.&nbsp; Instead they tell us to go buy stamps or drive to the Administrative Center to put the ballot in a box.

Fortunately, I have found a solution, which will save us up to $18,000 in Ellis County.&nbsp; Don’t put postage on the envelope!&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/430b310f-a958-44fd-a494-d04d3dbe58ce">The Post Master in Hays has assured us that every ballot, whether or not it has postage, will be delivered to the Clerk.</a>&nbsp; She has the money available to pay any postage due from Federal CARES/HAVA money.&nbsp; She should have used it in the first place, but this will work, too.&nbsp;

I am publicly calling on Donna Maskus and her Deputy, my opponent in this election, to inform Ellis County voters, whether Republican, Democrat, or Unaffiliated of their right to vote in advance, to mail the ballot without postage by signing the back of the envelope, and be assured that their vote will be counted.

Election officials should want our citizens to vote. We should want their voices to be heard. We should facilitate that process as much as possible, and we should find ways to do that without actually costing Ellis County Residents more in the long run. After calling the Clerk’s office I was told:&nbsp;

The election process should be encouraging more voting, not discouraging it. It’s the most fundamental means for citizens to be engaged in their local government. As an Election Official, I will make sure that voters are our priority. If you haven’t yet sent in your advance ballot, put it in any mailbox, whether or not you write in Laura Allen for County Clerk.&nbsp; If you do write me in, please mark the bubble, so the Clerk counts your vote.&nbsp; You do not need to put postage on it!

Recently a new voter told me of her awful experience trying to vote in person.&nbsp; She was quizzed by the person in the Clerk’s office as to why she was declaring as a Democrat, why she was bothering to vote, and generally treated as an inconvenience.&nbsp; The person who “helped” her didn’t even get off the phone to explain the process to this new voter.&nbsp; This is no way to treat the public, especially a young person who is trying to do the right thing, and obviously asking for guidance.

I believe that the issues I see with current processes are simple complacency. When it’s just another day in the office, it’s easy to overlook the bigger picture and our end goal. Complacency is the antithesis of innovation and engagement. This is why I believe it is imperative that we have new blood, new ideas, and new strategies in the County Clerk’s office. For Ellis County to be served in the best manner possible, it can’t be just another day at the office.&nbsp;

I recently asked the County Clerk to recuse the Deputy County Clerk from any discretionary decisions regarding the office for which she herself is running. I was told that the Deputy Clerk would not be on counting boards, and the Clerk’s office would uphold their responsibilities in a professional manner. I have also been told that voter intent when writing my name in will be considered. My last name, or combination of names, even misspelled, that clearly indicate a voter intended to write me in will be counted. With those assurances, I offer, again, these ways for your voice to be heard:

Advanced mail in ballots may be requested until July 28th. You can request an advance ballot by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksvotes.org/">www.ksvotes.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Ellis County Clerk at 785-628-9410. These completed ballots can be mailed (No postage necessary) back to 718 Main Street, Hays, Kansas 67601, or watch the following tutorial on using the drop box at the same address:&nbsp;<a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs&amp;fbclid=IwAR0XM1iPoA4LLJfNhSTlcPcb2GwdTk80AxcJYKLOTuEcRrKFfBdwbTxNnlg">https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs</a>. &nbsp;

You can vote early, in person, by visiting 718 Main Street until noon on August 3, 2020. As always, you may vote during the primary election held on August 4th, 2020. Find your polling place (or check your voter registration) at&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview</a>.&nbsp;

If you are a registered Democrat, please mark the bubble, then write my name (Laura Allen) in for County Clerk. Any unaffiliated voter may affiliate with a party when voting in the primary in person or when requesting an advance ballot. Please take a moment and support my write in campaign and affiliate as a Democrat in order to write me in.

Every single vote counts. Every time.&nbsp; Please write in Laura Allen for Ellis County Clerk.&nbsp; Your vote will make a difference.&nbsp;

Laura Allen, write-in candidate for Ellis County Clerk

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>My name is Laura Allen.&nbsp; I am the Democratic write in candidate for the August 4th Primary election. I want to be your Ellis County Clerk. I want to work with other county officials to make sure that we are doing what is best for Ellis County and its residents. As Clerk, transparency and engagement are key. Each Ellis County resident should feel as if they matter when it comes to the workings of our county and those that represent us.&nbsp;Advance ballots have been sent, and many have been returned. Not as many as should have been returned because our Election Office has, again, dropped the ball. For instance, instead of using a mailing permit for the return envelope, the Clerk left it to us to pay postage.&nbsp; How much?&nbsp; $1.20! WHY? &nbsp; When the County conducted the Sales Tax Election and wanted everyone to vote so it could impose more taxes, the Clerk made sure the postage was prepaid.&nbsp; Now, even though the federal government would reimburse for the postage, she makes us buy stamps.&nbsp; This is to suppress turnout so the insiders can manipulate the results.&nbsp; They don’t really want us to return these ballots.&nbsp; In the midst of a pandemic, they should encourage voters to vote in the most convenient, safest way possible.&nbsp; Instead they tell us to go buy stamps or drive to the Administrative Center to put the ballot in a box.Fortunately, I have found a solution, which will save us up to $18,000 in Ellis County.&nbsp; Don’t put postage on the envelope!&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/430b310f-a958-44fd-a494-d04d3dbe58ce">The Post Master in Hays has assured us that every ballot, whether or not it has postage, will be delivered to the Clerk.</a>&nbsp; She has the money available to pay any postage due from Federal CARES/HAVA money.&nbsp; She should have used it in the first place, but this will work, too.&nbsp;I am publicly calling on Donna Maskus and her Deputy, my opponent in this election, to inform Ellis County voters, whether Republican, Democrat, or Unaffiliated of their right to vote in advance, to mail the ballot without postage by signing the back of the envelope, and be assured that their vote will be counted.Election officials should want our citizens to vote. We should want their voices to be heard. We should facilitate that process as much as possible, and we should find ways to do that without actually costing Ellis County Residents more in the long run. After calling the Clerk’s office I was told:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>In order to return your ballot, you must use the drop box or pay the postage.&nbsp; That is not true.&nbsp; When I specifically asked, the clerk’s office finally admitted that if we just send the return envelope the Clerk will pay the postage.</li><li>There was federal money to send out the initial mailings (there was a Hays Daily News article in May with this information), but not to cover return postage.&nbsp; Again, not true.&nbsp; The Clerk decided not to put the mailing permit on and do it cheaply.&nbsp; Now she will have to pay the postage due, at a higher rate, but she can pay it out of CARES funds at no cost to the County budget.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>The election process should be encouraging more voting, not discouraging it. It’s the most fundamental means for citizens to be engaged in their local government. As an Election Official, I will make sure that voters are our priority. If you haven’t yet sent in your advance ballot, put it in any mailbox, whether or not you write in Laura Allen for County Clerk.&nbsp; If you do write me in, please mark the bubble, so the Clerk counts your vote.&nbsp; You do not need to put postage on it!Recently a new voter told me of her awful experience trying to vote in person.&nbsp; She was quizzed by the person in the Clerk’s office as to why she was declaring as a Democrat, why she was bothering to vote, and generally treated as an inconvenience.&nbsp; The person who “helped” her didn’t even get off the phone to explain the process to this new voter.&nbsp; This is no way to treat the public, especially a young person who is trying to do the right thing, and obviously asking for guidance.I believe that the issues I see with current processes are simple complacency. When it’s just another day in the office, it’s easy to overlook the bigger picture and our end goal. Complacency is the antithesis of innovation and engagement. This is why I believe it is imperative that we have new blood, new ideas, and new strategies in the County Clerk’s office. For Ellis County to be served in the best manner possible, it can’t be just another day at the office.&nbsp;I recently asked the County Clerk to recuse the Deputy County Clerk from any discretionary decisions regarding the office for which she herself is running. I was told that the Deputy Clerk would not be on counting boards, and the Clerk’s office would uphold their responsibilities in a professional manner. I have also been told that voter intent when writing my name in will be considered. My last name, or combination of names, even misspelled, that clearly indicate a voter intended to write me in will be counted. With those assurances, I offer, again, these ways for your voice to be heard:Advanced mail in ballots may be requested until July 28th. You can request an advance ballot by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksvotes.org/">www.ksvotes.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Ellis County Clerk at 785-628-9410. These completed ballots can be mailed (No postage necessary) back to 718 Main Street, Hays, Kansas 67601, or watch the following tutorial on using the drop box at the same address:&nbsp;<a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs&amp;fbclid=IwAR0XM1iPoA4LLJfNhSTlcPcb2GwdTk80AxcJYKLOTuEcRrKFfBdwbTxNnlg">https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&amp;v=eyLKdLKmHHs</a>. &nbsp;You can vote early, in person, by visiting 718 Main Street until noon on August 3, 2020. As always, you may vote during the primary election held on August 4th, 2020. Find your polling place (or check your voter registration) at&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview</a>.&nbsp;If you are a registered Democrat, please mark the bubble, then write my name (Laura Allen) in for County Clerk. Any unaffiliated voter may affiliate with a party when voting in the primary in person or when requesting an advance ballot. Please take a moment and support my write in campaign and affiliate as a Democrat in order to write me in.Every single vote counts. Every time.&nbsp; Please write in Laura Allen for Ellis County Clerk.&nbsp; Your vote will make a difference.&nbsp;Laura Allen, write-in candidate for Ellis County Clerk

LETTER: A dispute of required postage on ballots

To say I have lost faith in the ability of our current county commissioners to lead in this time of a global pandemic would be an understatement.&nbsp; I have now attended two county commissioners meetings in July, and I have serious doubts about our commissioners’ understanding of the face mask issue and the best way to protect our community.

Commissioner Butch Schlyer appears to be the most ill-informed—or perhaps simply the commissioner full of the most bluster.&nbsp; At the July 20 meeting, he claimed to have “spent all weekend researching these masks,” but I have to question the quality of his “research.”&nbsp; A simple search of the trusted MayoClinic.org site turned up a clear and straightforward article “COVID-19: How much protection do face masks offer?”&nbsp; The article asserts that “face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the virus.”&nbsp; Moreover, “a cloth mask is intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes.”&nbsp;

When Schlyer asserted, “A mask won’t stop a damn virus. . . . It’s like using chicken wire to keep out flies or mosquitoes,” he revealed a startling lack of understanding regarding the purpose of wearing a cloth mask.&nbsp; The purpose, as the MayoClinic.org site explains, is to reduce the distance and spread of the relatively large droplets that carry the virus from one person to another, NOT to filter the virus itself with the cloth.&nbsp; How can someone who does not even understand the concept of wearing a mask to reduce viral load be responsible for making a crucial decision regarding said masks?

He went on to compare the back-and-forth discussion of masks to “a bunch of ducks farting underwater.”&nbsp; In fact, he announced, “I’m deleting everything I get on my email about a mask.”&nbsp; That should be disturbing news to his constituents.&nbsp; He also claimed that the Dillons and Walmart mask mandates are just “political,” and he is “pissed off” that his 94-year-old father cannot shop at Dillons without a mask or a face shield. &nbsp;

The other two commissioners had their own disturbing revelations to make.&nbsp; “Thank God that this doesn’t affect kids,” said Commissioner Dustin Roths.&nbsp; If it did, he said, “my fatherly instinct would come out.”&nbsp; Presumably, a mask mandate might be warranted if children were at high risk, but since it’s mostly the elderly, cancer patients and others with underlying conditions who are at risk, he sees no reason to reverse his vote against a mask mandate. He even quoted Patrick Henry: “Give me liberty or give me death.” It seems a bit of a stretch to compare a temporary mask mandate (which could prevent much suffering and even death) to the tyranny of colonial British rule. A more fitting slogan for his stance might change the original one slightly:&nbsp; “Give me liberty AND give me death.”

County Health Director Jason Kennedy repeatedly delivered the message that “social distancing works” and we should “limit groups of people.”&nbsp; Nevertheless, Commissioner Dean Haselhorst revealed that on the day before, he had attended St. Joseph Catholic Church, where “out of the probably 400 people there, 8 had masks on.” In other words, one of the three people deciding on policy to govern the health of our community is himself ignoring the County Health Director’s advice to social distance and avoid large gatherings. Haselhorst went on to say that if we would simply stop watching the 6 o’clock and the 10 o’clock news, we’d “forget about what’s going on.” Surely, sticking one’s head in the sand is not the best way to lead during a time of crisis.

Dr. Cheryl Hofstetter Duffy, PhD, Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To say I have lost faith in the ability of our current county commissioners to lead in this time of a global pandemic would be an understatement.&nbsp; I have now attended two county commissioners meetings in July, and I have serious doubts about our commissioners’ understanding of the face mask issue and the best way to protect our community.Commissioner Butch Schlyer appears to be the most ill-informed—or perhaps simply the commissioner full of the most bluster.&nbsp; At the July 20 meeting, he claimed to have “spent all weekend researching these masks,” but I have to question the quality of his “research.”&nbsp; A simple search of the trusted MayoClinic.org site turned up a clear and straightforward article “COVID-19: How much protection do face masks offer?”&nbsp; The article asserts that “face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the virus.”&nbsp; Moreover, “a cloth mask is intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes.”&nbsp;When Schlyer asserted, “A mask won’t stop a damn virus. . . . It’s like using chicken wire to keep out flies or mosquitoes,” he revealed a startling lack of understanding regarding the purpose of wearing a cloth mask.&nbsp; The purpose, as the MayoClinic.org site explains, is to reduce the distance and spread of the relatively large droplets that carry the virus from one person to another, NOT to filter the virus itself with the cloth.&nbsp; How can someone who does not even understand the concept of wearing a mask to reduce viral load be responsible for making a crucial decision regarding said masks?He went on to compare the back-and-forth discussion of masks to “a bunch of ducks farting underwater.”&nbsp; In fact, he announced, “I’m deleting everything I get on my email about a mask.”&nbsp; That should be disturbing news to his constituents.&nbsp; He also claimed that the Dillons and Walmart mask mandates are just “political,” and he is “pissed off” that his 94-year-old father cannot shop at Dillons without a mask or a face shield. &nbsp;The other two commissioners had their own disturbing revelations to make.&nbsp; “Thank God that this doesn’t affect kids,” said Commissioner Dustin Roths.&nbsp; If it did, he said, “my fatherly instinct would come out.”&nbsp; Presumably, a mask mandate might be warranted if children were at high risk, but since it’s mostly the elderly, cancer patients and others with underlying conditions who are at risk, he sees no reason to reverse his vote against a mask mandate. He even quoted Patrick Henry: “Give me liberty or give me death.” It seems a bit of a stretch to compare a temporary mask mandate (which could prevent much suffering and even death) to the tyranny of colonial British rule. A more fitting slogan for his stance might change the original one slightly:&nbsp; “Give me liberty AND give me death.”County Health Director Jason Kennedy repeatedly delivered the message that “social distancing works” and we should “limit groups of people.”&nbsp; Nevertheless, Commissioner Dean Haselhorst revealed that on the day before, he had attended St. Joseph Catholic Church, where “out of the probably 400 people there, 8 had masks on.” In other words, one of the three people deciding on policy to govern the health of our community is himself ignoring the County Health Director’s advice to social distance and avoid large gatherings. Haselhorst went on to say that if we would simply stop watching the 6 o’clock and the 10 o’clock news, we’d “forget about what’s going on.” Surely, sticking one’s head in the sand is not the best way to lead during a time of crisis.Dr. Cheryl Hofstetter Duffy, PhD, Hays

LETTER: Ellis Co. Commission 'ill-informed' on masks

On Monday evening, I attended the county commission meeting where commissioners were set to discuss the potential mask mandate for Ellis County.

Upon taking my seat in the audience, I noticed something important: Everyone in the room had a mask on their face with the exception of the three county commission members.

COVID cases are continuing to rise in Ellis County. As of July 20, there are 34 active cases in Ellis County, with 87 total cases since reporting began, including one death of a man in his 90s.

According to Ellis County Health Director Jason Kennedy, social isolation and distancing is what he believes is the most effective way to keep the virus from spreading in our community. But, in some places, it is incredibly difficult to social distance – so masks are the next best thing. However, Kennedy said implementing a mask mandate at this time is not something he’d recommend.

My question is: Why not? Why is this not the time? A mask mandate at this time would be like taking an Ibuprofen to keep away a headache you can feel coming on. If you wait too long, the medicine won’t be at its strongest when you need it most. If we wait too long to mandate masks, our cases will go up too high to attempt to prevent them.

Commissioner Dustin Roths was the first to ask questions to Kennedy, stating he is “sick and tired of the news trying to turn this into something it’s not.” The other commissioners also lamented the way local news has been reporting on COVID cases. Roths also added that the news reports “hurts our chance at governing.”

I find this extraordinarily ironic. The commissioners want the public to “educate” themselves about the virus, but in the same breath denounce the reporting done by local news. Where is the public supposed to get its news from, if not locally? If the news “hurts” your ability to govern – perhaps you aren’t doing a terribly wonderful job in the first place.

Roths also lamented that the news does not cover enough “good news.”

“They don’t want to talk about the good things we do as a board,” he said. “They are so desperate for us to have bad COVID-19 numbers. I’d like to not have to talk about this every week. The last thing I want is a news camera here every week to try to get an ‘a-ha’ moment and run another article.”

With that statement, commissioner Dean Haselhorst suggested people stop paying attention to news and their attitudes will improve.

“Read something that’s positive and you’ll forget about what’s going on,” he said.

This is not good advice. This is how you end up uninformed. Of course bad news gets more attention, that doesn’t mean good news is being completely ignored. The public deserves to know what their commissioners are discussing. I am terribly sorry, commissioners, that you are sick of talking about how COVID is impacting the community you are here to serve. Imagine how those who are sick and suffering from the virus feel. Imagine how those of us who are high-risk feel.

Along with those comments, Roths made several unproven statements pertaining to the virus, including that “this thing doesn’t affect kids.” Thankfully, though, Roths said his “fatherly instinct” may come out if he thought kids were going to be impacted negatively. I suppose it is time to use those instincts, Mr. Roths, because according to the Mayo Clinic and the CDC, 1.7% of COVID cases are children. This number may seem small until it is your child who catches the virus.

Then commissioner Butch Schlyer spoke. He questioned if there were any clusters of COVID coming from places like Dillons – to which Kennedy responded he knew there were no known clusters related to Ellis County.

“It must be political that they’re doing something like this, same with Walmart,” Schlyer said.

I do not think that a virus cares about your political affiliation.

Schlyer then went on to discuss his 94-year-old father and how he can’t shop at Dillons anymore since he won’t put a mask on because it allegedly affects his oxygen levels.

I cannot speak to the specific health condition of Schlyer’s father. I can, however, personally attest that masks do not affect your oxygenation levels. I have been in and out of the emergency room for the past month because I’m immunocompromised, and I’ve watched my oxygen levels with and without a mask on. My oxygen levels stay consistent regardless of if I have a mask on my face or not. This information is consistent with what most doctors are claiming regarding masks having no impact on oxygen levels.

Schlyer also said he doesn’t like that the Hays City Commission is trying to “take the moral high ground in telling him what’s right” when discussing a mask mandate.

I don’t think this has anything to do with taking a moral high ground. I respect the City of Hays commissioners for taking the health of their community into consideration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday evening, I attended the county commission meeting where commissioners were set to discuss the potential mask mandate for Ellis County.Upon taking my seat in the audience, I noticed something important: Everyone in the room had a mask on their face with the exception of the three county commission members.COVID cases are continuing to rise in Ellis County. As of July 20, there are 34 active cases in Ellis County, with 87 total cases since reporting began, including one death of a man in his 90s.According to Ellis County Health Director Jason Kennedy, social isolation and distancing is what he believes is the most effective way to keep the virus from spreading in our community. But, in some places, it is incredibly difficult to social distance – so masks are the next best thing. However, Kennedy said implementing a mask mandate at this time is not something he’d recommend.My question is: Why not? Why is this not the time? A mask mandate at this time would be like taking an Ibuprofen to keep away a headache you can feel coming on. If you wait too long, the medicine won’t be at its strongest when you need it most. If we wait too long to mandate masks, our cases will go up too high to attempt to prevent them.Commissioner Dustin Roths was the first to ask questions to Kennedy, stating he is “sick and tired of the news trying to turn this into something it’s not.” The other commissioners also lamented the way local news has been reporting on COVID cases. Roths also added that the news reports “hurts our chance at governing.”I find this extraordinarily ironic. The commissioners want the public to “educate” themselves about the virus, but in the same breath denounce the reporting done by local news. Where is the public supposed to get its news from, if not locally? If the news “hurts” your ability to govern – perhaps you aren’t doing a terribly wonderful job in the first place.Roths also lamented that the news does not cover enough “good news.”“They don’t want to talk about the good things we do as a board,” he said. “They are so desperate for us to have bad COVID-19 numbers. I’d like to not have to talk about this every week. The last thing I want is a news camera here every week to try to get an ‘a-ha’ moment and run another article.”With that statement, commissioner Dean Haselhorst suggested people stop paying attention to news and their attitudes will improve.“Read something that’s positive and you’ll forget about what’s going on,” he said.This is not good advice. This is how you end up uninformed. Of course bad news gets more attention, that doesn’t mean good news is being completely ignored. The public deserves to know what their commissioners are discussing. I am terribly sorry, commissioners, that you are sick of talking about how COVID is impacting the community you are here to serve. Imagine how those who are sick and suffering from the virus feel. Imagine how those of us who are high-risk feel.Along with those comments, Roths made several unproven statements pertaining to the virus, including that “this thing doesn’t affect kids.” Thankfully, though, Roths said his “fatherly instinct” may come out if he thought kids were going to be impacted negatively. I suppose it is time to use those instincts, Mr. Roths, because according to the Mayo Clinic and the CDC, 1.7% of COVID cases are children. This number may seem small until it is your child who catches the virus.Then commissioner Butch Schlyer spoke. He questioned if there were any clusters of COVID coming from places like Dillons – to which Kennedy responded he knew there were no known clusters related to Ellis County.“It must be political that they’re doing something like this, same with Walmart,” Schlyer said.I do not think that a virus cares about your political affiliation.Schlyer then went on to discuss his 94-year-old father and how he can’t shop at Dillons anymore since he won’t put a mask on because it allegedly affects his oxygen levels.I cannot speak to the specific health condition of Schlyer’s father. I can, however, personally attest that masks do not affect your oxygenation levels. I have been in and out of the emergency room for the past month because I’m immunocompromised, and I’ve watched my oxygen levels with and without a mask on. My oxygen levels stay consistent regardless of if I have a mask on my face or not. This information is consistent with what most doctors are claiming regarding masks having no impact on oxygen levels.Schlyer also said he doesn’t like that the Hays City Commission is trying to “take the moral high ground in telling him what’s right” when discussing a mask mandate.I don’t think this has anything to do with taking a moral high ground. I respect the City of Hays commissioners for taking the health of their community into consideration.“We (KDHE) talked about social distancing but never about putting a mask on,” Schlyer said, “And that’s because a mask won’t stop a damn virus. That’s just a fact. I spent all weekend researching these masks.”I would love to see what sources Schlyer used for his research. The mask won’t stop the virus, but it helps contain the spread while we create vaccines or better technology to deal with those infected. I am stunned Schlyer said the masks can impact your oxygen but in the same breath said they are incapable of keeping particles from reaching other people.Which argument is it? Are the masks hindering breathing by not letting enough oxygen enter or are the masks not effective because there is too much room for particles to pass through? It can’t be both.Then Schlyer said he is to the point where he is “just deleting everything he gets in his emails regarding face masks.”A public official proudly proclaiming he is ignoring and deleting the concerns of the people he was elected to serve. That is not only extremely disheartening, it is disgusting.Regardless of how any individual feels about the masks, the way the county commissioners spoke Monday night was incredibly unprofessional and concerning. From suggesting that community members stop listening to the news to Schlyer openly admitting he disregards emails dealing with a very volatile, current subject, I am worried about the future of Ellis County if we continue to not be proactive about masks.The county commissioners did not listen to the pleas of those who spoke at the meeting, nor are they apparently listening to the ones who email or call them with concerns. These men were put in their position to serve our community – and they are failing us.Since our county commissioners have once again failed to support a mandate that would protect our community, I am imploring the Hays City commissioners to consider a mask mandate. I am also asking that those who are still able to go out in public wear masks to protect the people around you. We have to work together as a community or we will surely pay the price.&nbsp;Anniston Weber, Hays

Opinion