By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board voted to put the Lincoln Elementary School building up for sale at its meeting on Monday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1fd1f9bd-1629-4a43-9f0a-808009a42b52">The board voted at its previous meeting to close the 100-year-old school at the end of school year.</a>

The closure is part of $145 million in bond projects. A new high school is being built. The middle school will move into the remodeled high school. The current middle school will be renovated into a new elementary school.

In addition to closing Lincoln, Rockwell Administration Center will be closed and likely sold. Wilson Elementary School will be closed as a school, and the administrative offices will likely be moved into that building.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8c55d8ad-1874-48c5-ae6a-9a70606eb171">Renovations and additions at Roosevelt Elementary School are nearing completion.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8c55d8ad-1874-48c5-ae6a-9a70606eb171"></a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c9d8521-815b-4f1d-8bf6-ddea11091306">At their Monday meeting, the board members approved the price for adding to and renovating O'Loughlin Elementary School.</a>

The board voted to accept sealed bids for the Lincoln building while retaining the right to reject any and all bids.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said he has had no serious conversations with potential buyers, but several people have asked when the building might be available for sale.

An Overland Park Developer purchased the former Washington Elementary School and renovated that building into apartments.

The playground equipment at the school would likely be moved to another district school.

The district has to give the state the opportunity to purchase the property per state statute. The bidding process would be contingent on the Legislature's approval of the sale.

Board member Allen Park said he wanted to look at other uses for the building before it is sold.

He suggested the two district programs leasing space, the WeKan Center and virtual school, could move into that building.&nbsp;

Board member Jayme Goetz said that through the bond process, the district had already determined that renovating Lincoln and continuing to use it as a school would be too costly.

Although Lincoln could be renovated into housing or for other purposes, board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said those uses fall outside the school district's mission.

Board members Derek Yarmer and Park voted against the motion to sell the school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726087306663.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Elementary School" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Elementary School</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted to put the Lincoln Elementary School building up for sale at its meeting on Monday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1fd1f9bd-1629-4a43-9f0a-808009a42b52">The board voted at its previous meeting to close the 100-year-old school at the end of school year.</a>The closure is part of $145 million in bond projects. A new high school is being built. The middle school will move into the remodeled high school. The current middle school will be renovated into a new elementary school.In addition to closing Lincoln, Rockwell Administration Center will be closed and likely sold. Wilson Elementary School will be closed as a school, and the administrative offices will likely be moved into that building.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8c55d8ad-1874-48c5-ae6a-9a70606eb171">Renovations and additions at Roosevelt Elementary School are nearing completion.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8c55d8ad-1874-48c5-ae6a-9a70606eb171"></a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c9d8521-815b-4f1d-8bf6-ddea11091306">At their Monday meeting, the board members approved the price for adding to and renovating O'Loughlin Elementary School.</a>The board voted to accept sealed bids for the Lincoln building while retaining the right to reject any and all bids.Superintendent Ron Wilson said he has had no serious conversations with potential buyers, but several people have asked when the building might be available for sale.An Overland Park Developer purchased the former Washington Elementary School and renovated that building into apartments.The playground equipment at the school would likely be moved to another district school.The district has to give the state the opportunity to purchase the property per state statute. The bidding process would be contingent on the Legislature's approval of the sale.Board member Allen Park said he wanted to look at other uses for the building before it is sold.He suggested the two district programs leasing space, the WeKan Center and virtual school, could move into that building.&nbsp;Board member Jayme Goetz said that through the bond process, the district had already determined that renovating Lincoln and continuing to use it as a school would be too costly.Although Lincoln could be renovated into housing or for other purposes, board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said those uses fall outside the school district's mission.Board members Derek Yarmer and Park voted against the motion to sell the school.

Hays USD 489 school board votes to sell Lincoln school

JOHNSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Tuesday in Johnson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Dodge Charger driven by Jamie Sha'Quoia&nbsp;Gleason, 38, Kansas City, Missouri, was attempting to merge onto northbound Interstate 35 from northbound Interstate 635. 

The car left the roadway and rolled down the hill across the northbound lanes of Interstate 35. The driver was ejected from the vehicle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported Gleason to KU Medical Center where she was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

JOHNSON COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 9:30p.m. Tuesday in Johnson County.

The patrol reported a vehicle&nbsp;was attempting to merge onto Northbound Interstate 35 from Northbound Interstate 635. The vehicle left the roadway and rolled down the hill across the Northbound lanes of Interstate 35. The driver was ejected from the vehicle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The name of the victim and additional details have not been released.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

JOHNSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Tuesday in Johnson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Dodge Charger driven by Jamie Sha'Quoia&nbsp;Gleason, 38, Kansas City, Missouri, was attempting to merge onto northbound Interstate 35 from northbound Interstate 635. The car left the roadway and rolled down the hill across the northbound lanes of Interstate 35. The driver was ejected from the vehicle.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported Gleason to KU Medical Center where she was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.-------------JOHNSON COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 9:30p.m. Tuesday in Johnson County.The patrol reported a vehicle&nbsp;was attempting to merge onto Northbound Interstate 35 from Northbound Interstate 635. The vehicle left the roadway and rolled down the hill across the Northbound lanes of Interstate 35. The driver was ejected from the vehicle.&nbsp;&nbsp;The name of the victim and additional details have not been released.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

KHP IDs woman who died after ejected in rollover crash

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The city commission will vote on funding mechanisms for new business and housing developments in Hays at its meeting on Thursday.&nbsp;

Commissioners will also consider awarding a bid for the reconstruction of East 13th Street from Canterbury Drive to Commerce Parkway.

Two of the new housing developments are in the downtown area.

An ordinance establishing a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) and a development plan for housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut will be considered. A public hearing will precede the ordinance vote.&nbsp;

Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is proposing to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.

The district is expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during its maximum 25-year term. This revenue would be used to reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis.

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the city a $300,000 Commercial Rehabilitation Community Development Block Grant on behalf of Chestnut Suites&nbsp;at 1108 N. Main and Hays developer Adam Pray.

The former Hays State Bank building, which will be used for the $3.2 million project, was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.

Pray plans to redevelop the building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb called Chestnut Suites with 24 to 26 rooms. The rooms will be designed similar to those of traditional hotels.

The city is poised to approve&nbsp;Community Development Block Grant grant agreements between Hays and the state commerce department and between Hays and Chestnut Suites, along with a repayment agreement with the developer.

Commissioners will also discuss funding for the 27th and Main Street development project. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/838fe958-24ab-4afe-a463-4daa732a1c4f">Astra Bank</a> is relocating and building a new facility on that site.

&nbsp;The city will pay 100% of the costs to construct the stormwater management infrastructure at the south end of the property and 50% of the costs to extend 26th Street through the development.

The $89,000 for the stormwater retention infrastructure will come from the stormwater reserve funds, and the city's 50% share of $205,000 for the street will come from the city's capital reserve cash funds.

Access to the new bank will be from 26th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city of Hays has purchased the existing Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.

Commissioners will also consider authorizing a $3 million agreement with APAC-Kansas, Hays, for construction services related to the city and school improvements along the East 13th Street corridor from Canterbury Drive to Commerce Parkway.

The reconstruction project is to be funded from commission capital reserves, Ellis County reimbursement, a cost-share grant with the Kansas Department of Transportation, and reimbursement from USD 489 in the amount of $763,449 for their portion of the project.&nbsp;

The city’s portion of the project includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, including widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installation of a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project and a mill and overlay of the complete roadway.&nbsp;

The complete Sept. 26 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09262024-1504">here</a>.

The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city commission will vote on funding mechanisms for new business and housing developments in Hays at its meeting on Thursday.&nbsp;Commissioners will also consider awarding a bid for the reconstruction of East 13th Street from Canterbury Drive to Commerce Parkway.Two of the new housing developments are in the downtown area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726851202910.png" alt="Site plan map for 10th and Walnut apartments.&nbsp; Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Site plan map for 10th and Walnut apartments.&nbsp; Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727191095374.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of apartments to be built at 10th and Walnut.&nbsp;Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of apartments to be built at 10th and Walnut.&nbsp;Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>An ordinance establishing a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) and a development plan for housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut will be considered. A public hearing will precede the ordinance vote.&nbsp;Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is proposing to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.The district is expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during its maximum 25-year term. This revenue would be used to reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716571310012.png" alt="Location of proposed Chestnut Suites, 1108 Main. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Location of proposed Chestnut Suites, 1108 Main. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the city a $300,000 Commercial Rehabilitation Community Development Block Grant on behalf of Chestnut Suites&nbsp;at 1108 N. Main and Hays developer Adam Pray.The former Hays State Bank building, which will be used for the $3.2 million project, was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.Pray plans to redevelop the building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb called Chestnut Suites with 24 to 26 rooms. The rooms will be designed similar to those of traditional hotels.The city is poised to approve&nbsp;Community Development Block Grant grant agreements between Hays and the state commerce department and between Hays and Chestnut Suites, along with a repayment agreement with the developer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726850907046.png" alt="Site plan for the new Astra Bank to be built at 27th and Main. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Site plan for the new Astra Bank to be built at 27th and Main. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725648763058.jpeg" alt="Kyle Campbell, president and CEO of Astra Bank, speaks to a crowd gathered for the groundbreaking of the bank's new building in Hays. To the left is a conceptual drawing of the new building to be opened in summer 2025. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Campbell, president and CEO of Astra Bank, speaks to a crowd gathered for the groundbreaking of the bank's new building in Hays. To the left is a conceptual drawing of the new building to be opened in summer 2025. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners will also discuss funding for the 27th and Main Street development project. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/838fe958-24ab-4afe-a463-4daa732a1c4f">Astra Bank</a> is relocating and building a new facility on that site.&nbsp;The city will pay 100% of the costs to construct the stormwater management infrastructure at the south end of the property and 50% of the costs to extend 26th Street through the development.The $89,000 for the stormwater retention infrastructure will come from the stormwater reserve funds, and the city's 50% share of $205,000 for the street will come from the city's capital reserve cash funds.Access to the new bank will be from 26th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city of Hays has purchased the existing Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727192724420.png" alt="East 13th Street widening project. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>East 13th Street widening project. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners will also consider authorizing a $3 million agreement with APAC-Kansas, Hays, for construction services related to the city and school improvements along the East 13th Street corridor from Canterbury Drive to Commerce Parkway.The reconstruction project is to be funded from commission capital reserves, Ellis County reimbursement, a cost-share grant with the Kansas Department of Transportation, and reimbursement from USD 489 in the amount of $763,449 for their portion of the project.&nbsp;The city’s portion of the project includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, including widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installation of a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project and a mill and overlay of the complete roadway.&nbsp;The complete Sept. 26 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09262024-1504">here</a>.The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays City Commission to vote on funding for business, development projects

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

After decades of shaping local news in Hays and beyond, News Reporter Becky Kiser will sign off for the final time at the end of Sept.

Kiser's passion for journalism began in the fourth grade when she wrote news for her parents’ newspaper company in Protection.

&nbsp;"It was a little weekly newspaper that included the highlights for the schools that week. I remember writing a column about the class chameleon, Gilligan," she said.

Kiser was born in Blackfoot, Idaho, and later moved to Dodge City, where she graduated from Dodge City Senior High School and Dodge City Community College. She became involved in an award-winning radio broadcasting program and worked as a stringer for a local radio station, KEDD.

After community college, Kiser continued her education at Fort Hays State University, earning a bachelor's and master's in communications.&nbsp;

She started her professional career at KAYS Radio and TV in Hays in 1981 before moving in 1987 to Portales, New Mexico, where she led college students in a nightly local news program on the PBS station.

"I started at KAYS as the TV weather girl and then made my way to reporter and news anchor. I also produced and anchored radio newscasts," she said. "I then went to work at Eastern New Mexico University and was a teacher and advisor for the school's PBS television station, KENW."

After her time in New Mexico, Kiser relocated to Amarillo, Texas, in1989, joining ABC affiliate KVII as the medical reporter and co-anchor for the prime time 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts.

While in Texas, Kiser said the most well-known person she interviewed was Barbara Bush, wife of former President George H. W. Bush.

"She was on a media tour for her dog who wrote a book. It was unusual to promote White House pets like that but it was in his name and it was really sweet," Kiser said.

Kiser returned to Hays in 1991 after KAYS-TV was sold and rebranded as KBSH, continuing to work in TV news. She later returned to&nbsp;Fort Hays State University as a teacher of radio and TV classes.&nbsp;

After seven years of teaching, Kiser launched a local cable TV news show in 1994 called 'The Local Edition' for KMA production company on Hays Cable TV. The program migrated to Eagle Community Television, where it became known as 'Street Beat,' and eventually became Hays Post.&nbsp;

"That was a learning curve for me because it was online. I was going from changing writing styles from broadcast to a print writing style," Kiser said.

Hays Post transitioned into an online news platform, where Kiser hosted radio shows on KAYS and provided news updates in both the mornings and evenings.

Kiser also watched the community's growth through her regular coverage of the Hays city commission meetings on Thursdays.

"I love Hays. I'm excited about the growth we've seen in the last few years, both population and business-wise. It says a lot about the community and the region and I hope to see it continue," she said.

After more than four decades in journalism, Kiser witnessed major changes in the media including technology, shifts in the on-screen presentation of news anchors and evolving reporting standards.&nbsp;

Kiser said she appreciates the colleagues she’s worked with throughout her career, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in the newsroom.

As her retirement approaches, Kiser said she feels excited and anxious but will stay involved in the community while enjoying well-deserved relaxation.

She said her career was a journey of engaging with everyday people to well-known figures, never knowing what each day would bring.

"It's been a wonderful experience. I look forward to coming to work every day because I like what I do and not everybody gets to say that about their job," Kiser said.

Over the years, Kiser has received numerous awards, including:

She is currently on the United Way of Ellis County board and a member of Women Who Lead.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727122596247.jpeg" alt="Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostAfter decades of shaping local news in Hays and beyond, News Reporter Becky Kiser will sign off for the final time at the end of Sept.Kiser's passion for journalism began in the fourth grade when she wrote news for her parents’ newspaper company in Protection.&nbsp;"It was a little weekly newspaper that included the highlights for the schools that week. I remember writing a column about the class chameleon, Gilligan," she said.Kiser was born in Blackfoot, Idaho, and later moved to Dodge City, where she graduated from Dodge City Senior High School and Dodge City Community College. She became involved in an award-winning radio broadcasting program and worked as a stringer for a local radio station, KEDD.After community college, Kiser continued her education at Fort Hays State University, earning a bachelor's and master's in communications.&nbsp;She started her professional career at KAYS Radio and TV in Hays in 1981 before moving in 1987 to Portales, New Mexico, where she led college students in a nightly local news program on the PBS station."I started at KAYS as the TV weather girl and then made my way to reporter and news anchor. I also produced and anchored radio newscasts," she said. "I then went to work at Eastern New Mexico University and was a teacher and advisor for the school's PBS television station, KENW."After her time in New Mexico, Kiser relocated to Amarillo, Texas, in1989, joining ABC affiliate KVII as the medical reporter and co-anchor for the prime time 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts.While in Texas, Kiser said the most well-known person she interviewed was Barbara Bush, wife of former President George H. W. Bush."She was on a media tour for her dog who wrote a book. It was unusual to promote White House pets like that but it was in his name and it was really sweet," Kiser said.Kiser returned to Hays in 1991 after KAYS-TV was sold and rebranded as KBSH, continuing to work in TV news. She later returned to&nbsp;Fort Hays State University as a teacher of radio and TV classes.&nbsp;After seven years of teaching, Kiser launched a local cable TV news show in 1994 called 'The Local Edition' for KMA production company on Hays Cable TV. The program migrated to Eagle Community Television, where it became known as 'Street Beat,' and eventually became Hays Post.&nbsp;"That was a learning curve for me because it was online. I was going from changing writing styles from broadcast to a print writing style," Kiser said.Hays Post transitioned into an online news platform, where Kiser hosted radio shows on KAYS and provided news updates in both the mornings and evenings.Kiser also watched the community's growth through her regular coverage of the Hays city commission meetings on Thursdays."I love Hays. I'm excited about the growth we've seen in the last few years, both population and business-wise. It says a lot about the community and the region and I hope to see it continue," she said. After more than four decades in journalism, Kiser witnessed major changes in the media including technology, shifts in the on-screen presentation of news anchors and evolving reporting standards.&nbsp;Kiser said she appreciates the colleagues she’s worked with throughout her career, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in the newsroom.As her retirement approaches, Kiser said she feels excited and anxious but will stay involved in the community while enjoying well-deserved relaxation.She said her career was a journey of engaging with everyday people to well-known figures, never knowing what each day would bring."It's been a wonderful experience. I look forward to coming to work every day because I like what I do and not everybody gets to say that about their job," Kiser said.Over the years, Kiser has received numerous awards, including:<ul>
 <li>2024 KAB honorable for multimedia reporting</li><li>2023 KAB first place for multimedia reporting</li><li>Second place for complete newscast and honorable mention for a special program </li><li>2022 KPA first place for best story originating from a public notice </li><li>&nbsp;2022 KAB honorable mention for complete newscast.</li>
 </ul>She is currently on the United Way of Ellis County board and a member of Women Who Lead.&nbsp;

Becky Kiser's legacy: a dedicated career of reporting

A juvenile runaway from Ohio was located in a Hays apartment following a disturbance call to the police.

Hays Police Department Chief Don Scheibler said a call made on Sept. 17 from someone living in the apartment led to the discovery of the juvenile.

"This was a disturbance call initially but when officers got there, they had a runaway which had been found," he said.

The caller reported that she was living with a runaway from Ohio.

Scheibler said the juvenile had been living at the residence since July 1 before being discovered on Sept. 17. The juvenile was identified and taken into custody to be returned to Ohio.

Nineteen-year-old suspect Logan Joseph Bryan Douglass was arrested for alleged child misconduct related to sheltering or concealing a runaway.

Twenty-year-old Kiersten Angel Satterfield was also arrested for aggravated interference contributing to child misconduct.

Both Hays residents were arrested and booked into the Ellis County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727208710243.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA juvenile runaway from Ohio was located in a Hays apartment following a disturbance call to the police.Hays Police Department Chief Don Scheibler said a call made on Sept. 17 from someone living in the apartment led to the discovery of the juvenile."This was a disturbance call initially but when officers got there, they had a runaway which had been found," he said.The caller reported that she was living with a runaway from Ohio.Scheibler said the juvenile had been living at the residence since July 1 before being discovered on Sept. 17. The juvenile was identified and taken into custody to be returned to Ohio.Nineteen-year-old suspect Logan Joseph Bryan Douglass was arrested for alleged child misconduct related to sheltering or concealing a runaway.Twenty-year-old Kiersten Angel Satterfield was also arrested for aggravated interference contributing to child misconduct.Both Hays residents were arrested and booked into the Ellis County Jail.

Juvenile runaway from Ohio found in Hays, two suspects arrested 

Outdoor watering restrictions in Hays between noon and 7 p.m. will end Sept. 30. They began June 1 and include private wells.

In addition to the seasonal restrictions, the following is prohibited year-round:

• Washing down of hardscapes such as sidewalks, parking lots and driveways • Known loss of water through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems • Escape of water from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the street gutter from landscape irrigation

If the fall weather is hot and windy, it's highly encouraged to water landscapes plants, including turfgrass, said Holly Dickman, water conservation specialist.

"If it's necessary, water early in the morning or at night to make most efficient use of the water," she said.

"Fortunately, with cooler night temperatures and shorter days, the need for supplemental irrigation is greatly reduced. Always be sure to check the soil first before turning on the irrigation or garden hose."

Fall is a good time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs, as well as many drought-tolerant perennials.

"The cooler temperatures make the environment less stressful, while the warm soil temperatures encourage good root growth," Dickman said.

She advised to first prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter.

"Compost, peat moss, grass clippings or shredded leaves can loosen heavy clay soil, allowing water to percolate down to plant roots instead of running off.

"Fall is an excellent time to add organic matter to gardens and landscape beds, so they can grow more water-efficient roots next spring.

"You can do that any time before it freezes," she said.

More information about creating a "WaterSmart Landscape" is available online at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/566/WaterSmart-Landscaping">www.watersmarthays.com</a> or by contacting your local K-State Research and Extension Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589921488065.png" alt="Outdoor watering restrictions in Hays end Sept. 30. Photo by Jordan Hopkins/ Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Outdoor watering restrictions in Hays end Sept. 30. Photo by Jordan Hopkins/ Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostOutdoor watering restrictions in Hays between noon and 7 p.m. will end Sept. 30. They began June 1 and include private wells.In addition to the seasonal restrictions, the following is prohibited year-round:• Washing down of hardscapes such as sidewalks, parking lots and driveways • Known loss of water through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems • Escape of water from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the street gutter from landscape irrigationIf the fall weather is hot and windy, it's highly encouraged to water landscapes plants, including turfgrass, said Holly Dickman, water conservation specialist."If it's necessary, water early in the morning or at night to make most efficient use of the water," she said."Fortunately, with cooler night temperatures and shorter days, the need for supplemental irrigation is greatly reduced. Always be sure to check the soil first before turning on the irrigation or garden hose."Fall is a good time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs, as well as many drought-tolerant perennials."The cooler temperatures make the environment less stressful, while the warm soil temperatures encourage good root growth," Dickman said.She advised to first prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter."Compost, peat moss, grass clippings or shredded leaves can loosen heavy clay soil, allowing water to percolate down to plant roots instead of running off."Fall is an excellent time to add organic matter to gardens and landscape beds, so they can grow more water-efficient roots next spring."You can do that any time before it freezes," she said.More information about creating a "WaterSmart Landscape" is available online at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/566/WaterSmart-Landscaping">www.watersmarthays.com</a> or by contacting your local K-State Research and Extension Office.&nbsp;

Outdoor watering restrictions end Monday in Hays   

OAKLEY
– The TMP-Marian volleyball team picked up a pair of wins in Oakley Tuesday.
The Monarchs defeated Ellis in two and Oakley in three.

TMP-M
def. Ellis 25-18, 25-16
TMP-M def. Oakley 18-25, 25-18, 25-18

The
Monarchs have now won nine-straight matches and improved to 12-7 on the season.


Hays PostOAKLEY
– The TMP-Marian volleyball team picked up a pair of wins in Oakley Tuesday.
The Monarchs defeated Ellis in two and Oakley in three.TMP-M
def. Ellis 25-18, 25-16
TMP-M def. Oakley 18-25, 25-18, 25-18The
Monarchs have now won nine-straight matches and improved to 12-7 on the season.
They
travel to Larned on Thursday.

🏐 Monarchs win twice in Oakley to extend win-streak

BONNE TERRE, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man convicted of breaking into a woman’s home and repeatedly stabbing her was executed Tuesday over the objections of the victim’s family and the prosecutor, who wanted the death sentence commuted to life in prison.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-innocence-missouri-death-row-dcc03c8f998648783f4755818aaec6fd">Marcellus Williams</a>, 55, was convicted in the 1998 killing of Lisha Gayle, who was stabbed during the burglary of her suburban St. Louis home.

Williams was put to death despite questions his attorneys raised over jury selection at his trial and the handling of evidence in the case. His clemency petition focused heavily on how Gayle’s relatives wanted Williams’ sentence commuted to life without the possibility of parole.

“The family defines closure as Marcellus being allowed to live,” the petition stated. “Marcellus’ execution is not necessary.”

As Williams lay awaiting execution, he appeared to converse with a spiritual adviser seated next to him. Williams wiggled his feet underneath a white sheet that was pulled up to his neck and moved his head slightly while his spiritual advisor continued to talk. Then Williams' chest heaved about a half dozen times, and he showed no further movement.

Williams' son and two attorneys watched from another room. No one was present on behalf of the victim's family.

The Department of Corrections released a brief statement that Williams had written ahead of time, saying: “All Praise Be to Allah In Every Situation!!!”

Republican Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said he hoped the execution brings finality to a case that “languished for decades, revictimizing Ms. Gayle’s family over and over again.”

“No juror nor judge has ever found Williams’ innocence claim to be credible,” Parson said in a statement.

The NAACP had been among those urging Parson to cancel the execution.

“Tonight, Missouri lynched another innocent Black man,” NAACP President Derrick Johnson said in a statement.

It was the third time Williams faced execution. He got reprieves in 2015 and 2017, but his last-ditch efforts this time were futile. Parson and the state Supreme Court rejected his appeals in quick succession Monday, and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene hours before he was put to death.

Last month, Gayle’s relatives&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-death-row-marcellus-williams-4c45626ca0d2614eb03bf65c30ad00cd">gave their blessings to an agreement</a>&nbsp;between the St. Louis County prosecuting attorney’s office and Williams’ attorneys to commute the sentence to life in prison. But acting on an appeal from Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office, the state Supreme Court nullified the agreement.

Williams was among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-oklahoma-alabama-missouri-texas-south-carolina-d77a31bea7a4839424afc8889c7d8755">death row inmates in five states</a>&nbsp;who were scheduled to be put to death in the span of a week — an unusually high number that defies a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-penalty-decline-report-executions-capital-punishment-fa998133f3b8b0bbe2b80b21c08534f5">yearslong decline</a>&nbsp;in the use and support of the death penalty in the U.S. The first was carried out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-carolina-execution-freddie-owens-lethal-injection-0e15aef91dfe9ac9667264dce7df0193">Friday in South Carolina</a>. Texas was also slated to execute a prisoner on Tuesday evening.

Gayle, 42, was a social worker and former St. Louis Post-Dispatch reporter. Prosecutors at Williams’ trial said he broke into her home on Aug. 11, 1998, heard the shower running and found a large butcher knife. Gayle was stabbed 43 times when she came downstairs. Her purse and her husband’s laptop were stolen.

Authorities said Williams stole a jacket to conceal blood on his shirt. His girlfriend asked him why he would wear a jacket on a hot day. She said she later saw the purse and laptop in his car and that Williams sold the computer a day or two later.

Prosecutors also cited testimony from Henry Cole, who shared a cell with Williams in 1999 while Williams was jailed on unrelated charges. Cole told prosecutors that Williams confessed to the killing and provided details about it.

Williams’ attorneys responded that the girlfriend and Cole were both convicted of felonies and wanted a $10,000 reward. They said that fingerprints, a bloody shoeprint, hair and other evidence at the crime scene didn’t match Williams’.

A crime scene investigator had testified the killer wore gloves.

Questions about DNA evidence also led St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-death-row-inmate-dna-evidence-0a179b0aafb1a0c0a3e144f7e3592a62">request a hearing</a>&nbsp;challenging Williams’ guilt. But days before the Aug. 21 hearing,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-missouri-death-row-f7b3b4257c8a18542a6686d810472646">new testing showed</a>&nbsp;that DNA on the knife belonged to members of the prosecutor’s office who handled it without gloves after the original crime lab tests.

Without DNA evidence pointing to any alternative suspect, Midwest Innocence Project attorneys reached a compromise with the prosecutor’s office: Williams would enter a new, no-contest plea to first-degree murder in exchange for a new sentence of life in prison without parole. A no-contest plea isn’t an admission of guilt but is treated as such for the purpose of sentencing.

Judge Bruce Hilton signed off, as did Gayle’s family. But Bailey appealed, and the state Supreme Court blocked the agreement and ordered Hilton to proceed with an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-missouri-death-row-f7b3b4257c8a18542a6686d810472646">evidentiary hearing</a>, which took place last month.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-missouri-death-row-32fc5ee044353cf62411089d54bc9d9b">Hilton ruled on Sept. 12</a>&nbsp;that the first-degree murder conviction and death sentence would stand, noting that Williams’ arguments all had been previously rejected. That decision was upheld Monday by the state Supreme Court.

Attorneys for Williams, who was Black, also challenged the fairness of his trial, particularly the fact that only one of the 12 jurors was Black. Tricia Bushnell of the Midwest Innocence Project said the prosecutor in the case, Keith Larner, removed six of seven Black prospective jurors.

Larner testified at the August hearing that he struck one potential Black juror partly because he looked too much like Williams — a statement that Williams’ attorneys asserted showed improper racial bias.

Larner contended that the jury selection process was fair.

Williams was the third Missouri inmate put to death this year and the 100th since the state resumed use of the death penalty in 1989.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726156556643.png" alt="Williams photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Williams photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>BONNE TERRE, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man convicted of breaking into a woman’s home and repeatedly stabbing her was executed Tuesday over the objections of the victim’s family and the prosecutor, who wanted the death sentence commuted to life in prison.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-innocence-missouri-death-row-dcc03c8f998648783f4755818aaec6fd">Marcellus Williams</a>, 55, was convicted in the 1998 killing of Lisha Gayle, who was stabbed during the burglary of her suburban St. Louis home.Williams was put to death despite questions his attorneys raised over jury selection at his trial and the handling of evidence in the case. His clemency petition focused heavily on how Gayle’s relatives wanted Williams’ sentence commuted to life without the possibility of parole.“The family defines closure as Marcellus being allowed to live,” the petition stated. “Marcellus’ execution is not necessary.”As Williams lay awaiting execution, he appeared to converse with a spiritual adviser seated next to him. Williams wiggled his feet underneath a white sheet that was pulled up to his neck and moved his head slightly while his spiritual advisor continued to talk. Then Williams' chest heaved about a half dozen times, and he showed no further movement.Williams' son and two attorneys watched from another room. No one was present on behalf of the victim's family.The Department of Corrections released a brief statement that Williams had written ahead of time, saying: “All Praise Be to Allah In Every Situation!!!”Republican Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said he hoped the execution brings finality to a case that “languished for decades, revictimizing Ms. Gayle’s family over and over again.”“No juror nor judge has ever found Williams’ innocence claim to be credible,” Parson said in a statement.The NAACP had been among those urging Parson to cancel the execution.“Tonight, Missouri lynched another innocent Black man,” NAACP President Derrick Johnson said in a statement.It was the third time Williams faced execution. He got reprieves in 2015 and 2017, but his last-ditch efforts this time were futile. Parson and the state Supreme Court rejected his appeals in quick succession Monday, and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene hours before he was put to death.Last month, Gayle’s relatives&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-death-row-marcellus-williams-4c45626ca0d2614eb03bf65c30ad00cd">gave their blessings to an agreement</a>&nbsp;between the St. Louis County prosecuting attorney’s office and Williams’ attorneys to commute the sentence to life in prison. But acting on an appeal from Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office, the state Supreme Court nullified the agreement.Williams was among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-oklahoma-alabama-missouri-texas-south-carolina-d77a31bea7a4839424afc8889c7d8755">death row inmates in five states</a>&nbsp;who were scheduled to be put to death in the span of a week — an unusually high number that defies a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-penalty-decline-report-executions-capital-punishment-fa998133f3b8b0bbe2b80b21c08534f5">yearslong decline</a>&nbsp;in the use and support of the death penalty in the U.S. The first was carried out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-carolina-execution-freddie-owens-lethal-injection-0e15aef91dfe9ac9667264dce7df0193">Friday in South Carolina</a>. Texas was also slated to execute a prisoner on Tuesday evening.Gayle, 42, was a social worker and former St. Louis Post-Dispatch reporter. Prosecutors at Williams’ trial said he broke into her home on Aug. 11, 1998, heard the shower running and found a large butcher knife. Gayle was stabbed 43 times when she came downstairs. Her purse and her husband’s laptop were stolen.Authorities said Williams stole a jacket to conceal blood on his shirt. His girlfriend asked him why he would wear a jacket on a hot day. She said she later saw the purse and laptop in his car and that Williams sold the computer a day or two later.Prosecutors also cited testimony from Henry Cole, who shared a cell with Williams in 1999 while Williams was jailed on unrelated charges. Cole told prosecutors that Williams confessed to the killing and provided details about it.Williams’ attorneys responded that the girlfriend and Cole were both convicted of felonies and wanted a $10,000 reward. They said that fingerprints, a bloody shoeprint, hair and other evidence at the crime scene didn’t match Williams’.A crime scene investigator had testified the killer wore gloves.Questions about DNA evidence also led St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-death-row-inmate-dna-evidence-0a179b0aafb1a0c0a3e144f7e3592a62">request a hearing</a>&nbsp;challenging Williams’ guilt. But days before the Aug. 21 hearing,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-missouri-death-row-f7b3b4257c8a18542a6686d810472646">new testing showed</a>&nbsp;that DNA on the knife belonged to members of the prosecutor’s office who handled it without gloves after the original crime lab tests.Without DNA evidence pointing to any alternative suspect, Midwest Innocence Project attorneys reached a compromise with the prosecutor’s office: Williams would enter a new, no-contest plea to first-degree murder in exchange for a new sentence of life in prison without parole. A no-contest plea isn’t an admission of guilt but is treated as such for the purpose of sentencing.Judge Bruce Hilton signed off, as did Gayle’s family. But Bailey appealed, and the state Supreme Court blocked the agreement and ordered Hilton to proceed with an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-missouri-death-row-f7b3b4257c8a18542a6686d810472646">evidentiary hearing</a>, which took place last month.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marcellus-williams-missouri-death-row-32fc5ee044353cf62411089d54bc9d9b">Hilton ruled on Sept. 12</a>&nbsp;that the first-degree murder conviction and death sentence would stand, noting that Williams’ arguments all had been previously rejected. That decision was upheld Monday by the state Supreme Court.Attorneys for Williams, who was Black, also challenged the fairness of his trial, particularly the fact that only one of the 12 jurors was Black. Tricia Bushnell of the Midwest Innocence Project said the prosecutor in the case, Keith Larner, removed six of seven Black prospective jurors.Larner testified at the August hearing that he struck one potential Black juror partly because he looked too much like Williams — a statement that Williams’ attorneys asserted showed improper racial bias.Larner contended that the jury selection process was fair.Williams was the third Missouri inmate put to death this year and the 100th since the state resumed use of the death penalty in 1989.

Man issues statement before executed for 1998 murder

Fort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, offensive lineman Josh Shaw and linebacker Jack Hileman&nbsp;spoke to the media Tuesday before the Tigers travel to Central Oklahoma on Saturday.

Hays PostFort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, offensive lineman Josh Shaw and linebacker Jack Hileman&nbsp;spoke to the media Tuesday before the Tigers travel to Central Oklahoma on Saturday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GC-UDagKicQ?si=UOuldlmNIFUmbbyS" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tkQI3teO-kM?si=K8NFJ42oqDEUEoqp" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kSw3O_WzYT8?si=POlkk1QO3bAhr8Vi" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏈📹 FHSU weekly press conference 

KEARNEY, Neb. - Fort Hays State freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;won the 2024 MIAA Fall Conference Preview, helping the Tiger women's golf team to a t-10th finish this week at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course, a par-71, 5,916-yard course.

Nordlund was tied for fourth in the 90-player field after posting a round-one score of 2-over 73. She then climbed three spots on day two, recording one of just four sub-par rounds for the week in the field with a 1-under 70. The Sartell, Minn. Native recorded six birdies on the week and did not record any score higher than five on any of the 36 holes.

Both FHSU team rounds are among the 10 best in team history, with the Tigers firing rounds of 312 and 313 to finish the week in a tie for 10th out of 15 teams at 57-over 625.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/avery-blasi/8363">Avery Blasi</a>&nbsp;opened the week with a round of 6-over 77 before posting an 81 in round two, finishing in a tie for 45th. She carded three birdies across the 36 holes, including two on Monday.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;tied for 55th place after posting a career-low round of 79 on day one followed by an 82 in round two.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>&nbsp;tied for 62nd following rounds of 83 and 80, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/madison-kerr/8370">Madison Kerr</a>&nbsp;finished t-77th after posting scores of 87 and 84. Maier and Kerr both had two birdies on the week. Competing as an individual,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;finished in 81st place thanks to scores of 90 and 83.Central Missouri took home the team title after rounds of 294 and 297, finishing the week at 23-over par. UCM's Mia Rallo posted a double bogey on No. 18 in round two to finish in second place, one shot behind Nordlund.

The Tigers will return to action in two weeks when they travel to Edmond, Okla. for the Grace Shin Regional Preview October 7-8 at KickingBird Golf Course.

Full FHSU Results T-10th - Fort Hays State - 312 - 313 -- 625 (+57) 1st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;- 73 - 70 -- 143 (+1) T-45th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/avery-blasi/8363">Avery Blasi</a>&nbsp;- 77 - 81 -- 158 (+16) T-55th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;- 79 - 82 -- 161 (+19) T-62nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>&nbsp;- 83 - 80 -- 163 (+21) T-77th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/madison-kerr/8370">Madison Kerr</a>&nbsp;- 87 - 84 -- 171 (+29) 81st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;- 90 - 83 -- 173 (+31)&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727213989417.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKEARNEY, Neb. - Fort Hays State freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;won the 2024 MIAA Fall Conference Preview, helping the Tiger women's golf team to a t-10th finish this week at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course, a par-71, 5,916-yard course.Nordlund was tied for fourth in the 90-player field after posting a round-one score of 2-over 73. She then climbed three spots on day two, recording one of just four sub-par rounds for the week in the field with a 1-under 70. The Sartell, Minn. Native recorded six birdies on the week and did not record any score higher than five on any of the 36 holes.Both FHSU team rounds are among the 10 best in team history, with the Tigers firing rounds of 312 and 313 to finish the week in a tie for 10th out of 15 teams at 57-over 625.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/avery-blasi/8363">Avery Blasi</a>&nbsp;opened the week with a round of 6-over 77 before posting an 81 in round two, finishing in a tie for 45th. She carded three birdies across the 36 holes, including two on Monday.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;tied for 55th place after posting a career-low round of 79 on day one followed by an 82 in round two.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>&nbsp;tied for 62nd following rounds of 83 and 80, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/madison-kerr/8370">Madison Kerr</a>&nbsp;finished t-77th after posting scores of 87 and 84. Maier and Kerr both had two birdies on the week. Competing as an individual,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;finished in 81st place thanks to scores of 90 and 83.Central Missouri took home the team title after rounds of 294 and 297, finishing the week at 23-over par. UCM's Mia Rallo posted a double bogey on No. 18 in round two to finish in second place, one shot behind Nordlund.The Tigers will return to action in two weeks when they travel to Edmond, Okla. for the Grace Shin Regional Preview October 7-8 at KickingBird Golf Course.Full FHSU Results T-10th - Fort Hays State - 312 - 313 -- 625 (+57) 1st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;- 73 - 70 -- 143 (+1) T-45th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/avery-blasi/8363">Avery Blasi</a>&nbsp;- 77 - 81 -- 158 (+16) T-55th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;- 79 - 82 -- 161 (+19) T-62nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>&nbsp;- 83 - 80 -- 163 (+21) T-77th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/madison-kerr/8370">Madison Kerr</a>&nbsp;- 87 - 84 -- 171 (+29) 81st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;- 90 - 83 -- 173 (+31)&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ FHSU's Nordlund wins MIAA Fall Preview; Tigers T-10th

MONKEY ISLAND, Okla. - The Fort Hays State men's golf team finished in a tie for third place at the MSSU Fall Invitational which wrapped up Tuesday. The Tigers, who finished two shots out of first place, combined for a two-round total of 4-over 580 after a 4-over 292 in the first round and an even-par 288 in the second round at Shangri-La Golf Club, a par-72, 7,210-yard track.

The Tigers battled through rainy conditions on Monday that was ultimately shortened to one round after extensive rain washed out the second round. Sitting in fourth place and eight shots back of the lead, Fort Hays State battled back on day two and momentarily took the lead before a strong finish from Arkansas-Fort Smith gave the Lions the victory.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-scheck/8548">Cooper Scheck</a>&nbsp;finished in a tie for 10th at even-par for the tournament after rounds of 2-over 74 and 2-under 70. The junior fired off three-straight birdies on the back nine of round two to claw back into the top 10, finishing the week with seven birdies.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/parker-krob/8546">Parker Krob</a>&nbsp;turned in rounds of 2-over 74 and 1-under 71 to finish in a tie for 16th at 1-over for the week. The senior carded six birdies on the week, including a two on the long par-3 17th hole to help him play his final five holes in even par in round two.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jackson-rader/8547">Jackson Rader</a>&nbsp;was the top Tiger in round one, firing a 1-under 71, before finishing the week in 24th place at 2-over following a second-round 3-over 75. He brushed off a tough stretch in round two with an eagle on the par-5 9th hole, posting a three on that hole for the second round in a row. He finished the week with five birdies and two eagles.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cole-streck/8549">Cole Streck</a>&nbsp;posted rounds of 1-over 73 and 4-over 76 to finish in a tie for 40th at 5-over par for the week. He totaled seven birdies across the 36 holes, including four in round one and three in round two.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jacob-george/8545">Jacob George</a>&nbsp;finished in a tie for 48th at 6-over for the week after signing for a 6-over 78 in round one and an even-par 72 in round two. George recorded five birdies on the week, including four on Tuesday.

Arkansas-Fort Smith placed first as a team, shooting a 5-under 283 to climb five spots on day two and finish the week at 2-over 578. Arkansas Tech placed second at 2-over 579 following rounds of even-par 288 and 3-over 291. FHSU tied with Oklahoma City and Washburn.

Mathieu Zerwin of Northwestern Oklahoma State captured the individual title by two shots with a two-round total of 6-under 138 (68-70).The Tigers will next compete at the Newman Invitational October 14-15 at Terradyne Country Club in Andover, Kan.

Full FHSU Results 3rd - Fort Hays State - 292 - 288 -- 580 (+4) T10th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-scheck/8548">Cooper Scheck</a>&nbsp;- 74 - 70 -- 144 (E) T16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/parker-krob/8546">Parker Krob</a>&nbsp;- 74 - 71 -- 145 (+1) T24th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jackson-rader/8547">Jackson Rader</a>&nbsp;- 71 - 75 -- 146 (+2) T40th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cole-streck/8549">Cole Streck</a>&nbsp;- 73 - 76 -- 149 (+5) T48th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jacob-george/8545">Jacob George</a>&nbsp;- 78 - 72 -- 150 (+6)&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727208061991.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsMONKEY ISLAND, Okla. - The Fort Hays State men's golf team finished in a tie for third place at the MSSU Fall Invitational which wrapped up Tuesday. The Tigers, who finished two shots out of first place, combined for a two-round total of 4-over 580 after a 4-over 292 in the first round and an even-par 288 in the second round at Shangri-La Golf Club, a par-72, 7,210-yard track.The Tigers battled through rainy conditions on Monday that was ultimately shortened to one round after extensive rain washed out the second round. Sitting in fourth place and eight shots back of the lead, Fort Hays State battled back on day two and momentarily took the lead before a strong finish from Arkansas-Fort Smith gave the Lions the victory.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-scheck/8548">Cooper Scheck</a>&nbsp;finished in a tie for 10th at even-par for the tournament after rounds of 2-over 74 and 2-under 70. The junior fired off three-straight birdies on the back nine of round two to claw back into the top 10, finishing the week with seven birdies.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/parker-krob/8546">Parker Krob</a>&nbsp;turned in rounds of 2-over 74 and 1-under 71 to finish in a tie for 16th at 1-over for the week. The senior carded six birdies on the week, including a two on the long par-3 17th hole to help him play his final five holes in even par in round two.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jackson-rader/8547">Jackson Rader</a>&nbsp;was the top Tiger in round one, firing a 1-under 71, before finishing the week in 24th place at 2-over following a second-round 3-over 75. He brushed off a tough stretch in round two with an eagle on the par-5 9th hole, posting a three on that hole for the second round in a row. He finished the week with five birdies and two eagles.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cole-streck/8549">Cole Streck</a>&nbsp;posted rounds of 1-over 73 and 4-over 76 to finish in a tie for 40th at 5-over par for the week. He totaled seven birdies across the 36 holes, including four in round one and three in round two.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jacob-george/8545">Jacob George</a>&nbsp;finished in a tie for 48th at 6-over for the week after signing for a 6-over 78 in round one and an even-par 72 in round two. George recorded five birdies on the week, including four on Tuesday.Arkansas-Fort Smith placed first as a team, shooting a 5-under 283 to climb five spots on day two and finish the week at 2-over 578. Arkansas Tech placed second at 2-over 579 following rounds of even-par 288 and 3-over 291. FHSU tied with Oklahoma City and Washburn.Mathieu Zerwin of Northwestern Oklahoma State captured the individual title by two shots with a two-round total of 6-under 138 (68-70).The Tigers will next compete at the Newman Invitational October 14-15 at Terradyne Country Club in Andover, Kan.Full FHSU Results 3rd - Fort Hays State - 292 - 288 -- 580 (+4) T10th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-scheck/8548">Cooper Scheck</a>&nbsp;- 74 - 70 -- 144 (E) T16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/parker-krob/8546">Parker Krob</a>&nbsp;- 74 - 71 -- 145 (+1) T24th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jackson-rader/8547">Jackson Rader</a>&nbsp;- 71 - 75 -- 146 (+2) T40th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cole-streck/8549">Cole Streck</a>&nbsp;- 73 - 76 -- 149 (+5) T48th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/jacob-george/8545">Jacob George</a>&nbsp;- 78 - 72 -- 150 (+6)&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ FHSU men third at MSSU Fall Invitational

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;-

WASHINGTON — The country’s next president will need a friendly Congress to make their policy dreams a reality, but control of the two chambers remains deeply uncertain with just weeks until Election Day — and whether the outcome will be a party trifecta in the nation’s capital.

Recent projections tilt in favor of Republicans taking the U.S. Senate, an already closely divided chamber that is sure to be near evenly split again next Congress.

And though Vice President Kamala Harris injected a jolt of energy into the Democratic Party, prognosticators still say the prizewinner of the House is anybody’s guess.

“The House is highly close and competitive, and really could go either way.&nbsp; And I say the same thing about the presidential race,” Kyle Kondik, managing editor of Sabato’s Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, told States Newsroom on Thursday.

A ‘district-by-district slug fest’&nbsp;

Control of the 435-seat House remains a toss-up, with competitive races in both the seven swing states and in states that will almost certainly have no bearing on who wins the top of the ticket.

Sabato’s, an election prognosticator, currently ranks nine Republican seats of the roughly 30 competitive races as “toss-up” seats for the party — meaning the GOP incumbents are locked in competitive races.

The GOP has held a slim majority this Congress, and Democrats only need to net four seats to gain control.

“It really is right on the razor’s edge,” Kondik said. “It’s pretty crazy that, you know, we’ve had two straight elections with just 222-seat majorities. And it’s pretty rare historically for there to be, you know, majorities that small twice in a row — unprecedented.

“Usually you’d have one side or the other breaking out to a bigger advantage, and I think both sides are viewing this, really, as a district-by-district slug fest.”

Sabato’s&nbsp;<a href="https://centerforpolitics.org/crystalball/five-house-ratings-changes-as-overall-battle-for-majority-remains-tight/" target="_blank">adjusted its ratings</a>&nbsp;on five races Thursday, including moving Democratic&nbsp;<a href="https://alaskabeacon.com/2024/08/21/peltola-leads-in-alaska-u-s-house-primary-with-begich-ahead-of-dahlstrom/" target="_blank">Rep. Mary Peltola</a>&nbsp;of Alaska to the “toss-up” category from a safer “leans Democratic.” Kondik also nudged the race for Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York to “leans Republican” from “toss up.”

“The big ones are probably Peltola, and then Mike Lawler, who holds one of the bluest seats held by a Republican, but I moved him to ‘leans R.’ It seems pretty clear to me that he’s in a decent position,” Kondik said.

The National Republican Congressional Committee, the party’s fundraising arm for House races, announced in June nearly $1.2 million in ad buys in Alaska. The organization launched a new ad in the state this month that accuses Peltola of not supporting veterans.

In addition to Peltola, Kondik ranks nine other Democratic incumbents — of the nearly 40 competitive races — as toss-ups.

Among the toss-ups is the seat currently held by Rep. Matt Cartwright of Pennsylvania, a key swing state in the presidential race. Cartwright’s Republican challenger, Rob Bresnahan, runs an electrical contracting company in the northeastern Pennsylvania district that he took over from his grandfather.

Democrats are investing in the seat: Cartwright is running a new ad featuring union workers praising him, and just last week Harris hosted a rally in the district, which includes Scranton.

But the NRCC thinks they have a pretty good chance of flipping his seat.

Breshnahan’s company is “a union shop,” said NRCC head Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina. “So he can talk union talk. He’s a great candidate for us.”

“Matt Cartwright is in trouble,” Hudson said on the conservative “Ruthless Podcast” on Sept. 12.

“I think the way we’ve structured it, the type of candidates we recruited across the country, from Maine to Alaska, from Minnesota to Texas, regardless of top of the ticket, we’re going to pick up seats,” Hudson said.

But Sabato’s also nudged three seats toward the Democrats’ favor on Thursday.

Kondik moved Rep. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin from the safety of “likely Republican” to the weaker “leans Republican” category.

Rep. Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, sees an “important opportunity” in Van Orden’s district. The GOP congressman, who represents central and western Wisconsin, became known for his profanity-laced&nbsp;<a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/briefs/report-van-orden-curses-out-group-of-teenage-congressional-pages/" target="_blank">outburst</a>&nbsp;at young Senate pages for taking photos of the Capitol rotunda.

The Democrats are running challenger Rebecca Cooke, a small business owner, in the hopes of unseating him.

“We have an incredible candidate in Rebecca Cooke (against) one of the most extreme, which is saying a lot, Republicans in the House,” DelBene told reporters on a call Monday.

“We have put Rebecca Cooke on our Red-to-Blue list and are strongly supporting her campaign. She’s doing a great job, and this absolutely is a priority for us,” DelBene said, referring to the DCCC’s list of 30 candidates that receive extra fundraising support.

DelBene said she’s confident in the Democrats’ chances to flip the House, citing healthy coffers and revived interest.

“We have seen huge enthusiasm all across the country. We have seen people, more and more people turning out to volunteer, to knock on doors, to make phone calls,” she said.

Democrats’ cash ‘flooding,’ NRCC chief says

Erin Covey, a House analyst with The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cookpolitical.com/analysis/house/house-overview/house-ratings-changes-several-races-move-democrats-favor" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on Sept. 5 that Democrats have a brighter outlook after Harris assumed the top of the ticket, though November remains a close call.

“Now, polling conducted by both parties largely shows Harris matching, or coming a few points short of, Biden’s 2020 margins across competitive House districts,” Covey wrote.

The NRCC has taken note. During his interview on the “Ruthless Podcast,” Hudson compared Harris becoming the Democrats’ new choice for president as a “bloodless coup,” and said the enthusiasm she’s sparked is a cause for concern for Republicans. Democratic delegates nominated Harris, in accordance with party rules, to run for the Oval Office after Biden dropped out in late July.

“A lot of people, even Democrats, you know, just weren’t comfortable voting for Joe Biden. With Kamala on the ticket, we saw a surge in Democrats coming home and having the enthusiasm,” Hudson said.

Hudson said he also worries about Democrats’ fundraising numbers.

“The one thing that keeps you awake at night is the Democrat money. It’s flooding,” Hudson said. “The second quarter this year I was able to raise the most money we’ve ever raised as a committee, and the Democrats raised $7 million more. I mean, it’s just, they just keep coming. It’s like the Terminator.”

“But we don’t have to match them dollar for dollar,” Hudson said. “We’ve just got to make sure we’ve got the resources we need. And so we’ve just got to keep our pace.”

The DCCC announced Friday it raised $22.3 million in August, bringing its total for this election cycle to $250.6 million.

Republicans are inching closer and closer to flipping the Senate red during this year’s elections, thanks to a map that favors GOP incumbents and puts Democrats on the defensive in several states.

West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice is widely expected to win his bid for the upper chamber, bringing Republicans up to 50 seats, as long as they hang on in Florida, Nebraska and Texas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675989554413.png" alt="-Recent projections tilt in favor of Republicans taking the U.S. Senate, an already closely divided chamber that is sure to be near evenly split again next Congress-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>-Recent projections tilt in favor of Republicans taking the U.S. Senate, an already closely divided chamber that is sure to be near evenly split again next Congress-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;-WASHINGTON — The country’s next president will need a friendly Congress to make their policy dreams a reality, but control of the two chambers remains deeply uncertain with just weeks until Election Day — and whether the outcome will be a party trifecta in the nation’s capital.Recent projections tilt in favor of Republicans taking the U.S. Senate, an already closely divided chamber that is sure to be near evenly split again next Congress.And though Vice President Kamala Harris injected a jolt of energy into the Democratic Party, prognosticators still say the prizewinner of the House is anybody’s guess.“The House is highly close and competitive, and really could go either way.&nbsp; And I say the same thing about the presidential race,” Kyle Kondik, managing editor of Sabato’s Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, told States Newsroom on Thursday.<h2>A ‘district-by-district slug fest’&nbsp;</h2>Control of the 435-seat House remains a toss-up, with competitive races in both the seven swing states and in states that will almost certainly have no bearing on who wins the top of the ticket.Sabato’s, an election prognosticator, currently ranks nine Republican seats of the roughly 30 competitive races as “toss-up” seats for the party — meaning the GOP incumbents are locked in competitive races.The GOP has held a slim majority this Congress, and Democrats only need to net four seats to gain control.“It really is right on the razor’s edge,” Kondik said. “It’s pretty crazy that, you know, we’ve had two straight elections with just 222-seat majorities. And it’s pretty rare historically for there to be, you know, majorities that small twice in a row — unprecedented.“Usually you’d have one side or the other breaking out to a bigger advantage, and I think both sides are viewing this, really, as a district-by-district slug fest.”Sabato’s&nbsp;<a href="https://centerforpolitics.org/crystalball/five-house-ratings-changes-as-overall-battle-for-majority-remains-tight/" target="_blank">adjusted its ratings</a>&nbsp;on five races Thursday, including moving Democratic&nbsp;<a href="https://alaskabeacon.com/2024/08/21/peltola-leads-in-alaska-u-s-house-primary-with-begich-ahead-of-dahlstrom/" target="_blank">Rep. Mary Peltola</a>&nbsp;of Alaska to the “toss-up” category from a safer “leans Democratic.” Kondik also nudged the race for Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York to “leans Republican” from “toss up.”“The big ones are probably Peltola, and then Mike Lawler, who holds one of the bluest seats held by a Republican, but I moved him to ‘leans R.’ It seems pretty clear to me that he’s in a decent position,” Kondik said.The National Republican Congressional Committee, the party’s fundraising arm for House races, announced in June nearly $1.2 million in ad buys in Alaska. The organization launched a new ad in the state this month that accuses Peltola of not supporting veterans.<h2>It’s always about Pennsylvania</h2>In addition to Peltola, Kondik ranks nine other Democratic incumbents — of the nearly 40 competitive races — as toss-ups.Among the toss-ups is the seat currently held by Rep. Matt Cartwright of Pennsylvania, a key swing state in the presidential race. Cartwright’s Republican challenger, Rob Bresnahan, runs an electrical contracting company in the northeastern Pennsylvania district that he took over from his grandfather.Democrats are investing in the seat: Cartwright is running a new ad featuring union workers praising him, and just last week Harris hosted a rally in the district, which includes Scranton.But the NRCC thinks they have a pretty good chance of flipping his seat.Breshnahan’s company is “a union shop,” said NRCC head Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina. “So he can talk union talk. He’s a great candidate for us.”“Matt Cartwright is in trouble,” Hudson said on the conservative “Ruthless Podcast” on Sept. 12.“I think the way we’ve structured it, the type of candidates we recruited across the country, from Maine to Alaska, from Minnesota to Texas, regardless of top of the ticket, we’re going to pick up seats,” Hudson said.<h2>Van Orden targeted in Wisconsin</h2>But Sabato’s also nudged three seats toward the Democrats’ favor on Thursday.Kondik moved Rep. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin from the safety of “likely Republican” to the weaker “leans Republican” category.Rep. Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, sees an “important opportunity” in Van Orden’s district. The GOP congressman, who represents central and western Wisconsin, became known for his profanity-laced&nbsp;<a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/briefs/report-van-orden-curses-out-group-of-teenage-congressional-pages/" target="_blank">outburst</a>&nbsp;at young Senate pages for taking photos of the Capitol rotunda.The Democrats are running challenger Rebecca Cooke, a small business owner, in the hopes of unseating him.“We have an incredible candidate in Rebecca Cooke (against) one of the most extreme, which is saying a lot, Republicans in the House,” DelBene told reporters on a call Monday.“We have put Rebecca Cooke on our Red-to-Blue list and are strongly supporting her campaign. She’s doing a great job, and this absolutely is a priority for us,” DelBene said, referring to the DCCC’s list of 30 candidates that receive extra fundraising support.DelBene said she’s confident in the Democrats’ chances to flip the House, citing healthy coffers and revived interest.“We have seen huge enthusiasm all across the country. We have seen people, more and more people turning out to volunteer, to knock on doors, to make phone calls,” she said.<h2>Democrats’ cash ‘flooding,’ NRCC chief says</h2>Erin Covey, a House analyst with The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cookpolitical.com/analysis/house/house-overview/house-ratings-changes-several-races-move-democrats-favor" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on Sept. 5 that Democrats have a brighter outlook after Harris assumed the top of the ticket, though November remains a close call.“Now, polling conducted by both parties largely shows Harris matching, or coming a few points short of, Biden’s 2020 margins across competitive House districts,” Covey wrote.The NRCC has taken note. During his interview on the “Ruthless Podcast,” Hudson compared Harris becoming the Democrats’ new choice for president as a “bloodless coup,” and said the enthusiasm she’s sparked is a cause for concern for Republicans. Democratic delegates nominated Harris, in accordance with party rules, to run for the Oval Office after Biden dropped out in late July.“A lot of people, even Democrats, you know, just weren’t comfortable voting for Joe Biden. With Kamala on the ticket, we saw a surge in Democrats coming home and having the enthusiasm,” Hudson said.Hudson said he also worries about Democrats’ fundraising numbers.“The one thing that keeps you awake at night is the Democrat money. It’s flooding,” Hudson said. “The second quarter this year I was able to raise the most money we’ve ever raised as a committee, and the Democrats raised $7 million more. I mean, it’s just, they just keep coming. It’s like the Terminator.”“But we don’t have to match them dollar for dollar,” Hudson said. “We’ve just got to make sure we’ve got the resources we need. And so we’ve just got to keep our pace.”The DCCC announced Friday it raised $22.3 million in August, bringing its total for this election cycle to $250.6 million.<h2>Senate map tilts toward GOP</h2>Republicans are inching closer and closer to flipping the Senate red during this year’s elections, thanks to a map that favors GOP incumbents and puts Democrats on the defensive in several states.West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice is widely expected to win his bid for the upper chamber, bringing Republicans up to 50 seats, as long as they hang on in Florida, Nebraska and Texas.But Democrats will need to secure wins in several challenging states, including Arizona, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — and break the 50-50 tie through a Democratic presidency — if they want to remain the majority party.That many Democratic wins seems increasingly unlikely, though not entirely out of the realm of possibility.Montana, where Sen. Jon Tester is looking to secure reelection against GOP challenger Tim Sheehy, has been moved from a “toss-up” state to leaning toward Republicans by three respected analysis organizations in the last few weeks.The Cook Political Report wrote in its ratings change earlier this month that several “public polls have shown Sheehy opening up a small, but consistent lead.”“Democrats push back that their polling still shows Tester within the margin of error of the race, and that those are exactly the type of close races he’s won before,” their assessment said. “Tester, however, has never run on a presidential ballot in a polarized environment of this kind before — and even with his stumbles, Sheehy is still the strongest, best financed candidate he’s ever faced.”Republicans winning Montana’s Senate seat could give them a firm, though narrow, 51-seat Senate majority.<h2>Florida, Texas, Nebraska</h2>That, however, would require the Republican incumbents in states like Florida and Texas — where it’s not clear if evolving trends against Republicans will continue — to secure their reelection wins.And it would mean holding off a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/03/fischer-and-osborn-hint-at-tight-race-as-both-tout-union-endorsements/" target="_blank">wild card independent candidate&nbsp;</a>in the Cornhusker state.The Cook Political Report says it’s “worth keeping an eye on a unique situation developing in Nebraska, where independent candidate Dan Osborn is challenging Republican Sen. Deb Fischer.”CPR also noted in its analysis that Democrats’ best pick-up opportunities, which could rebalance the scales a bit, are Florida and Texas.“Today, the Lone Star State looks like the better option because of the strengths and fundraising of Democrats’ challenger there, Rep. Colin Allred,” CPR wrote.If Democrats do hold onto 50 seats, through whatever combination of wins and losses shakes out on election night, majority control would depend on whichever candidate wins the presidential contest.Given the close nature of several Senate races, it is entirely possible control of that chamber isn’t known until after recounts take place in the swing states.Chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Gary Peters, D-Mich., said during a Christian Science Monitor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?538456-1/christian-science-monitor-breakfast-senator-gary-peters" target="_blank">breakfast</a>&nbsp;this week that he’s known all along Democratic candidates will be in “very right races.”“In a nutshell, I’m optimistic,” Peters said. “I believe we’re going to hold the majority. I feel good about where we are. We’re basically where I thought we would be after Labor Day in really tight races. None of this is a surprise to us. Now we just have to run our playbook, be focused, be disciplined.”The National Republican Senatorial Committee, led this cycle by Montana Sen. Steve Daines, is confident the GOP will pick up the Senate majority following November’s elections.The group highlighted a Washington Post poll this week showing a tie between Democratic Sen. Bob Casey and GOP candidate Dave McCormick in the Pennsylvania Senate race.NRSC Spokesman Philip Letsou sent out a written statement after the poll’s release that Casey is in the “race for his life…because Pennsylvania voters know Casey’s lockstep support for Kamala Harris and her inflationary, anti-fracking agenda will devastate their economy. Pennsylvanians have had enough of liberal, career politicians like Casey and Harris.”<h2>No change in filibuster in sight</h2>The GOP acquisition of a handful of seats would still require the next Republican leader to constantly broker deals with Democrats, since the chamber is widely expected to retain the legislative filibuster.That rule requires at least 60 senators vote to advance legislation toward final passage and is the main reason the chamber rarely takes up partisan bills.A Republican sweep of the House, Senate and White House for unified government would give them the chance to pass certain types of legislation through the fast-track budget reconciliation process they used to approve the 2017 tax law.How wide their majorities are in each chamber will determine how much they can do within such a bill, given Republicans will still have centrist members, like Alaska’s Lisa Murkowski and Maine’s Susan Collins, balancing the party against more far-right policy goals.