The Greater Salina Community Foundation recently awarded more than $60,000 to assist Saline County organizations with their daily operations and long-term viability in response to COVID-19.

The following 18 organizations received funding.

The Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas,&nbsp;$7,500 to help cover supplies, staff salaries, personal protective equipment and software to maintain operations remotely.

Salina Montessori School,&nbsp;$5,000 to help provide scholarships to families who are unable to cover tuition due to income loss resulting from COVID-19.

Saline County Department of Senior Services,&nbsp;$5,000 gloves and masks for Meals on Wheels volunteers who continue to deliver approximately 239 meals each workday.

Salina Rescue Mission,&nbsp;$5,000 for supplies for takeout meals, technology needs, personal protective equipment and operational support.

Salina Initiative for Restorative Justice,&nbsp;$4,800&nbsp;to provide stipends for mediators so victim-offender mediation services to juvenile offenders may continue.

Saint Francis Community Services,&nbsp;$3,618.75 to provide sanitization for in-patient treatment facility and purchase thermometers and masks for staff and clients.

Central Kansas Mental Health Center,&nbsp;$3,600 for laptops, cameras and microphones to increase telehealth capacity.

The Salvation Army,&nbsp;$3,529 to support the operating budget, including salaries and utilities, so that services may continue.

Thrive of the Heartland,&nbsp;$3,400 for software to provide virtual financial counseling to individuals who need assistance stabilizing their finances, which has increased due to COVID-19.

North Salina Community Development, Inc.,&nbsp;$3,200 to purchase food-only gift cards for distribution among residents of low-income apartments and regular hotel tenants in North Salina.

Salina Symphony, Inc.,&nbsp;$3,000 to supplement decreased ticket and sponsorship revenue by covering concert production expenses when it is safe to resume live performance.

Kansas Wesleyan University,&nbsp;$3,000 to cover costs of continuing academic instruction virtually.

Salina Community Theatre,&nbsp;$3,000 to create a communications campaign informing patrons about safely returning to the theater.

Salina Innovation Foundation,&nbsp;$2,000 to assist with building operational expenses, including internet, electricity, gas and water, to sustain co-working program and protect the space.

Friends of the River Foundation,&nbsp;$1,300 for equipment and talent to create social media videos for grade school children with the puppets that were originally designed for the Arts Infusion program.

Sacred Heart Jr. Sr. High School,&nbsp;$1,260 to purchase internet access hotspots for disadvantaged or at-risk students finishing the school year online.

Rolling Hills Zoo,&nbsp;$1,250 for equipment to create a virtual camp experience with live interactions and other educational programs.

Cornerstone Classical School,&nbsp;$950 to support staffing for a three-week summer camp for students who need extra support due to the transition to learning at home.

Nonprofit support grants were funded through the community foundation’s Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund, L.P. “Pat” Mullen Fund and Fund for Greater Salina.

The Greater Salina Community Foundation recently awarded more than $60,000 to assist Saline County organizations with their daily operations and long-term viability in response to COVID-19.The following 18 organizations received funding.The Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas,&nbsp;$7,500 to help cover supplies, staff salaries, personal protective equipment and software to maintain operations remotely.Salina Montessori School,&nbsp;$5,000 to help provide scholarships to families who are unable to cover tuition due to income loss resulting from COVID-19.Saline County Department of Senior Services,&nbsp;$5,000 gloves and masks for Meals on Wheels volunteers who continue to deliver approximately 239 meals each workday.Salina Rescue Mission,&nbsp;$5,000 for supplies for takeout meals, technology needs, personal protective equipment and operational support.Salina Initiative for Restorative Justice,&nbsp;$4,800&nbsp;to provide stipends for mediators so victim-offender mediation services to juvenile offenders may continue.Saint Francis Community Services,&nbsp;$3,618.75 to provide sanitization for in-patient treatment facility and purchase thermometers and masks for staff and clients.Central Kansas Mental Health Center,&nbsp;$3,600 for laptops, cameras and microphones to increase telehealth capacity.The Salvation Army,&nbsp;$3,529 to support the operating budget, including salaries and utilities, so that services may continue.Thrive of the Heartland,&nbsp;$3,400 for software to provide virtual financial counseling to individuals who need assistance stabilizing their finances, which has increased due to COVID-19.North Salina Community Development, Inc.,&nbsp;$3,200 to purchase food-only gift cards for distribution among residents of low-income apartments and regular hotel tenants in North Salina.Salina Symphony, Inc.,&nbsp;$3,000 to supplement decreased ticket and sponsorship revenue by covering concert production expenses when it is safe to resume live performance.Kansas Wesleyan University,&nbsp;$3,000 to cover costs of continuing academic instruction virtually.Salina Community Theatre,&nbsp;$3,000 to create a communications campaign informing patrons about safely returning to the theater.Salina Innovation Foundation,&nbsp;$2,000 to assist with building operational expenses, including internet, electricity, gas and water, to sustain co-working program and protect the space.Friends of the River Foundation,&nbsp;$1,300 for equipment and talent to create social media videos for grade school children with the puppets that were originally designed for the Arts Infusion program.Sacred Heart Jr. Sr. High School,&nbsp;$1,260 to purchase internet access hotspots for disadvantaged or at-risk students finishing the school year online.Rolling Hills Zoo,&nbsp;$1,250 for equipment to create a virtual camp experience with live interactions and other educational programs.Cornerstone Classical School,&nbsp;$950 to support staffing for a three-week summer camp for students who need extra support due to the transition to learning at home.Nonprofit support grants were funded through the community foundation’s Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund, L.P. “Pat” Mullen Fund and Fund for Greater Salina.

GSCF awards more than $60,000 in nonprofit support grants

Here's the Friday COVID-19 update from Saline County:

The Saline County Health Department has an additional case of COVID-19 to report today:

•Male in his 30’s associated with a close contact who is isolated.

Saline County has had 28 cases. Out of the total number of cases, four citizens continue to be actively monitored and isolated and there have been two deaths. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation.

KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:

•A total of 7,886 cases with 172 deaths reported.

•There have been 53,706 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.

•The age range is 0 years to 100 years (median 42 years).

Governor Kelly signed Executive Order 20-31, which establishes a new phase to the “Ad Astra: Plan to Reopen Kansas.” The new “1.5” Phase, effective May 18th, 2020, continues reopening efforts while still preserving some restrictions. The updated plan and frequently asked questions have been updated on our website <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.

•The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Plan for KDOT was released yesterday. A modernization project in Saline County has been placed in the pipeline for completion. This project includes reconstructing 3.6 miles of K-4 Highway from Simpson Road to Niles Road to improve safety.

As we attempt to reopen Saline County, the entire community is counting on each person to follow the below recommendations to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

•It is highly encouraged to continue to wear cloth masks and maintain social distancing.

•It is highly encouraged for people to only leave their homes for essentials.

•It is highly recommended those employees in any service industry wear PPE (especially cloth masks).

•It is highly encouraged to continue telework.

•Avoid socializing in person with groups of 10 or more individuals in both indoor and outdoor settings.

•Any employees exhibiting symptoms should be required to stay at home and asked to call their health care provider.

•It will take the effort to follow the above recommendations from everyone in our community to continue our reopening.

Help our community in slowing the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589580641826.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here's the Friday COVID-19 update from Saline County:The Saline County Health Department has an additional case of COVID-19 to report today:•Male in his 30’s associated with a close contact who is isolated.Saline County has had 28 cases. Out of the total number of cases, four citizens continue to be actively monitored and isolated and there have been two deaths. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation.KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:•A total of 7,886 cases with 172 deaths reported.•There have been 53,706 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.•The age range is 0 years to 100 years (median 42 years).Governor Kelly signed Executive Order 20-31, which establishes a new phase to the “Ad Astra: Plan to Reopen Kansas.” The new “1.5” Phase, effective May 18th, 2020, continues reopening efforts while still preserving some restrictions. The updated plan and frequently asked questions have been updated on our website <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.Announcements:•The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Plan for KDOT was released yesterday. A modernization project in Saline County has been placed in the pipeline for completion. This project includes reconstructing 3.6 miles of K-4 Highway from Simpson Road to Niles Road to improve safety.As we attempt to reopen Saline County, the entire community is counting on each person to follow the below recommendations to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.•It is highly encouraged to continue to wear cloth masks and maintain social distancing.•It is highly encouraged for people to only leave their homes for essentials.•It is highly recommended those employees in any service industry wear PPE (especially cloth masks).•It is highly encouraged to continue telework.•Avoid socializing in person with groups of 10 or more individuals in both indoor and outdoor settings.•Any employees exhibiting symptoms should be required to stay at home and asked to call their health care provider.•It will take the effort to follow the above recommendations from everyone in our community to continue our reopening.Help our community in slowing the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Saline County: 1 new confirmed COVID-19 case

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Sheriff's Office welcomed a new corrections officer. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/McPhersonCountyksSheriff/">McPherson County KS Sheriff's Office</a> Facebook page:

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Sheriff's Office welcomed a new corrections officer. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/McPhersonCountyksSheriff/">McPherson County KS Sheriff's Office</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMcPhersonCountyksSheriff%2Fposts%2F1405441296320631&width=500" width="500" height="631" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

McPherson County Sheriff's Office welcomes new officer

81 Connection, the fixed route bus service from Belleville to Salina, will have a new stop added that will serve downtown Belleville, starting on Monday.&nbsp;

The new stop will be located outside the Republic County Courthouse, near the west entrance.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new stop will provide easy access to the downtown Belleville area for passengers.&nbsp;

The 81 Connection bus service has three bi-directional trips each day, Monday through Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The first route starts in Belleville at 6:45 a.m., then heads south on Highway 81 to four stops in Concordia, a stop at the U.S. Highway 24/U.S. Highway 81 junction, a stop in Minneapolis and stop at South Seventh Street and West Walnut Street and Walmart in Salina and then heads back north to the same stops.&nbsp;&nbsp;This route does this loop twice and finishes in Belleville around 5:40 p.m. each day.

A second route leaves Salina at 1 p.m. and heads north on Highway 81 to the same stop in Minneapolis, the stop at the U.S. Highway 24/U.S. Highway 81 junction, four stops in Concordia and the stop in Belleville, before heading back to Salina with the same stops.&nbsp;&nbsp;The bus finishes in Salina around 6 p.m. each day.

“We are excited to add this new stop to the 81 Connection route,” said Michelle Griffin, Mobility Manager for the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The new stop will provide us a way to serve Belleville in a better way by offering more options.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are always looking for ways to improve transportation services in the region.”

For more information about the 81 Connection and Kansas Rides, visit <a href="http://www.ksrides.org">www.ksrides.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit <a href="http://www.occk.com">www.occk.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

81 Connection, the fixed route bus service from Belleville to Salina, will have a new stop added that will serve downtown Belleville, starting on Monday.&nbsp;The new stop will be located outside the Republic County Courthouse, near the west entrance.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new stop will provide easy access to the downtown Belleville area for passengers.&nbsp;The 81 Connection bus service has three bi-directional trips each day, Monday through Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The first route starts in Belleville at 6:45 a.m., then heads south on Highway 81 to four stops in Concordia, a stop at the U.S. Highway 24/U.S. Highway 81 junction, a stop in Minneapolis and stop at South Seventh Street and West Walnut Street and Walmart in Salina and then heads back north to the same stops.&nbsp;&nbsp;This route does this loop twice and finishes in Belleville around 5:40 p.m. each day.A second route leaves Salina at 1 p.m. and heads north on Highway 81 to the same stop in Minneapolis, the stop at the U.S. Highway 24/U.S. Highway 81 junction, four stops in Concordia and the stop in Belleville, before heading back to Salina with the same stops.&nbsp;&nbsp;The bus finishes in Salina around 6 p.m. each day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589555298730.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We are excited to add this new stop to the 81 Connection route,” said Michelle Griffin, Mobility Manager for the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The new stop will provide us a way to serve Belleville in a better way by offering more options.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are always looking for ways to improve transportation services in the region.”For more information about the 81 Connection and Kansas Rides, visit <a href="http://www.ksrides.org">www.ksrides.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit <a href="http://www.occk.com">www.occk.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

81 Connection adds stop in Belleville

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN FHSU University Relations and Marketing

HAYS – Every single person has been affected in one way or another by the outbreak of the coronavirus that hit the United States in February.

Nursing graduates from Fort Hays State University are dealing with effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on a day-to-day basis all across the country.

Curtis Kramer is a 2009 graduate who says he and fellow medical personnel appreciate the overwhelming support and gestures of gratitude they are getting for their work during these challenging times.

However, he says there are a lot of heroes who he thinks deserve recognition for how they are dealing with situations that put them at increased risk.

“I chose a career in nursing for this very reason – to care for others,” Kramer said. “A lot of people didn’t choose this way of life. But most are rolling with the punches.”

In addition to those working on the front line, Kramer thinks others who should be recognized for doing their part are – well, basically everyone.

“We should be thanking and appreciating each other,” Kramer said. “Although I’m working in a hospital, I’m not the only one making sacrifices. There are people out of jobs trying to make their way, parents working at home while teaching their children at home, people who are staying home, doing what they are supposed to be doing, because that’s protecting us.”

Following is Kramer’s story of his journey from FHSU to San Francisco, as well the journeys of two other alums. Although working in different parts of the country, they all credit the Fort Hays State experience for preparing them for their pivotal roles during this pandemic, something never before seen in their lifetime.

Curtis Kramer, interventional radiology nurse, University of San Francisco Medical Center

After traveling the country and working in numerous ICU units for several years after his graduation from FHSU, Kramer had the chance to move to radiology about a year and a half ago at USF Medical Center.

“I just wanted a change of pace,” he said.

That was before the pandemic hit. While he doesn’t work on the frontline, Kramer still sedates and cares for patients during procedures.

Now accustomed to city life, Kramer – who grew up in Cimarron, a town of about 2,200 in southwest Kansas – said he will never forget his roots.

“I feel very fortunate to have grown up in the most amazing circumstances in Kansas,” he said. “Now in my adult life, I am blessed to live where science is revered and people kind of look out for each other in that sense.”

After working at HaysMed for about two years after graduation, he decided to pursue traveling nursing, working from California to Hawaii, then New York, before settling down in California. After four years of caring for “some of the sickest patients I’d ever seen” at Stanford University Hospital, he moved north to San Francisco to take the radiology job.

Working in so many different venues was invaluable experience for Kramer, but he maintains that it all started at his alma mater in his native state.

“Fort Hays State prepared me to work in large hospitals and with high-tech scientific medicine,” he said. “Not only did I get the background to navigate work proficiently in those hospitals, but I was able to take with me the spirit of FHSU and the spirit of Kansas when I work with and care for patients.”

Kramer learned about caregiving in high school and college when both his parents were battling cancer.

Fort Hays State University was the closest four-year university to home, and its affordability was attractive. But there was something closer to his heart that drew Kramer to FHSU.

“Fort Hays State won me over with its charm,” he said. “I felt at home.”

During his parents’ battles with cancer, Kramer spent time in ICU units, and that cemented his decision to become a nurse.

“I felt like I was raised in ICU,” he said. “I’ve always been a caretaker with my friends and family, and when my parents were sick, I loved what nurses did. They were the caring ones.”

Brian Pfannenstiel, director of critical care, Hays Medical Center, Hays

A native of Chapman, Pfannenstiel stayed in Hays after graduating with his bachelor of nursing in December 2003.

He has worked at Hays Medical Center ever since, and his duties have ranged from the surgical floor to the progressive care unit to his current position in critical care. He is set to graduate later this month with a master’s in nursing administration.

While the pandemic brought with it different issues he had never before encountered, Pfannenstiel didn’t panic because of what he had learned in his master’s preparation classes.

“There’s the complexity theory, where we learned how changing one variable can affect 10 other consequences,” he said. “As nurses, we take care of sick patients every day. Obviously, this is a different situation, but during our program, we looked at all kinds of care models.”

Pfannenstiel said he is able to manage the additional stress these days by keeping in mind the healthcare code of ethics.

“We need to look at the patients holistically and put the patients first. But,” he admitted, “we are doing things I wouldn’t have even considered six months ago.”

For instance, HaysMed can move patients to an outside window so they can see their loved one’s face to face while visiting them on the phone.

HaysMed also has iPads available for patients to visit with loved ones through Zoom.

“Going through the master’s program, we learn about the necessity to be prepared for anything we might experience, and I believe that we are,” he said.

As a director, Pfannenstiel said in addition to keeping up-to-date with the scientific and evidence-based care for patients, he feels it’s his responsibility to give his staff up-to-date information daily to help decrease anxiety.

“It’s important that we have increased communication at this time,” he said. “I try to keep them factually informed. We have to be well prepared for any eventuality.”

Madison Putman, registered nurse, ICU, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn.

Similar to Kramer, Putman’s decision to become a nurse was cemented while dealing with her mother’s cancer as a high school senior in Wichita.

She attributes not only the nursing skills learned at Fort Hays State but another college experience that made an indelible impression on her. Putman played outfield for the Tiger softball team from 2012-15.

“I think being a college athlete prepared me the most for this kind of situation,” said Putman, who graduated with her bachelor of nursing in 2016. “Our coach always taught us to pay attention to detail, to be prepared for whatever might come, and then you aren’t caught off guard as much.”

That adaptability has now become a way of life for Putman, who works primarily in ICU. She referred to a presentation during her senior year in college as a defining moment. The presenter told the students that one day they were going to be the ones who will need to step up and react while the world is still in shock.

“He was right,” Putman said. “These COVID-19 patients are like nothing I’ve ever seen. We, as health care professionals, are still learning and adapting to how these patients present themselves and how they change during their hospital stay.”

Putman learned early on in the pandemic how serious it is&nbsp;when her first patient who tested positive for the virus didn’t survive.

“That was a huge reality check for us,” she said. “All the unknowns about the virus can be frustrating.”

Even with all the uncertainty surrounding her, Putman said that listening to and caring for the patients is rewarding. She often calls on lessons learned at FHSU to help her keep moving forward.

“When things get chaotic, the best thing we can do is stay calm and keep our emotions at bay,” she said. “Everyone is going to benefit from that in the long run.”

In what has become the new normal, Putman takes each day one at a time without planning too far ahead. Whatever she will face in the coming days, weeks and months, she is certain of one thing.

“Nursing is a calling, and it was my calling,” Putman said. “I’ve never doubted it, even in this pandemic.”



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589554237191.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN FHSU University Relations and MarketingHAYS – Every single person has been affected in one way or another by the outbreak of the coronavirus that hit the United States in February.Nursing graduates from Fort Hays State University are dealing with effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on a day-to-day basis all across the country.Curtis Kramer is a 2009 graduate who says he and fellow medical personnel appreciate the overwhelming support and gestures of gratitude they are getting for their work during these challenging times.However, he says there are a lot of heroes who he thinks deserve recognition for how they are dealing with situations that put them at increased risk.“I chose a career in nursing for this very reason – to care for others,” Kramer said. “A lot of people didn’t choose this way of life. But most are rolling with the punches.”In addition to those working on the front line, Kramer thinks others who should be recognized for doing their part are – well, basically everyone.“We should be thanking and appreciating each other,” Kramer said. “Although I’m working in a hospital, I’m not the only one making sacrifices. There are people out of jobs trying to make their way, parents working at home while teaching their children at home, people who are staying home, doing what they are supposed to be doing, because that’s protecting us.”Following is Kramer’s story of his journey from FHSU to San Francisco, as well the journeys of two other alums. Although working in different parts of the country, they all credit the Fort Hays State experience for preparing them for their pivotal roles during this pandemic, something never before seen in their lifetime.Curtis Kramer, interventional radiology nurse, University of San Francisco Medical CenterAfter traveling the country and working in numerous ICU units for several years after his graduation from FHSU, Kramer had the chance to move to radiology about a year and a half ago at USF Medical Center.“I just wanted a change of pace,” he said.That was before the pandemic hit. While he doesn’t work on the frontline, Kramer still sedates and cares for patients during procedures.Now accustomed to city life, Kramer – who grew up in Cimarron, a town of about 2,200 in southwest Kansas – said he will never forget his roots.“I feel very fortunate to have grown up in the most amazing circumstances in Kansas,” he said. “Now in my adult life, I am blessed to live where science is revered and people kind of look out for each other in that sense.”After working at HaysMed for about two years after graduation, he decided to pursue traveling nursing, working from California to Hawaii, then New York, before settling down in California. After four years of caring for “some of the sickest patients I’d ever seen” at Stanford University Hospital, he moved north to San Francisco to take the radiology job.Working in so many different venues was invaluable experience for Kramer, but he maintains that it all started at his alma mater in his native state.“Fort Hays State prepared me to work in large hospitals and with high-tech scientific medicine,” he said. “Not only did I get the background to navigate work proficiently in those hospitals, but I was able to take with me the spirit of FHSU and the spirit of Kansas when I work with and care for patients.”Kramer learned about caregiving in high school and college when both his parents were battling cancer.Fort Hays State University was the closest four-year university to home, and its affordability was attractive. But there was something closer to his heart that drew Kramer to FHSU.“Fort Hays State won me over with its charm,” he said. “I felt at home.”During his parents’ battles with cancer, Kramer spent time in ICU units, and that cemented his decision to become a nurse.“I felt like I was raised in ICU,” he said. “I’ve always been a caretaker with my friends and family, and when my parents were sick, I loved what nurses did. They were the caring ones.”Brian Pfannenstiel, director of critical care, Hays Medical Center, HaysA native of Chapman, Pfannenstiel stayed in Hays after graduating with his bachelor of nursing in December 2003.He has worked at Hays Medical Center ever since, and his duties have ranged from the surgical floor to the progressive care unit to his current position in critical care. He is set to graduate later this month with a master’s in nursing administration.While the pandemic brought with it different issues he had never before encountered, Pfannenstiel didn’t panic because of what he had learned in his master’s preparation classes.“There’s the complexity theory, where we learned how changing one variable can affect 10 other consequences,” he said. “As nurses, we take care of sick patients every day. Obviously, this is a different situation, but during our program, we looked at all kinds of care models.”Pfannenstiel said he is able to manage the additional stress these days by keeping in mind the healthcare code of ethics.“We need to look at the patients holistically and put the patients first. But,” he admitted, “we are doing things I wouldn’t have even considered six months ago.”For instance, HaysMed can move patients to an outside window so they can see their loved one’s face to face while visiting them on the phone.HaysMed also has iPads available for patients to visit with loved ones through Zoom.“Going through the master’s program, we learn about the necessity to be prepared for anything we might experience, and I believe that we are,” he said.As a director, Pfannenstiel said in addition to keeping up-to-date with the scientific and evidence-based care for patients, he feels it’s his responsibility to give his staff up-to-date information daily to help decrease anxiety.“It’s important that we have increased communication at this time,” he said. “I try to keep them factually informed. We have to be well prepared for any eventuality.”Madison Putman, registered nurse, ICU, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn.Similar to Kramer, Putman’s decision to become a nurse was cemented while dealing with her mother’s cancer as a high school senior in Wichita.She attributes not only the nursing skills learned at Fort Hays State but another college experience that made an indelible impression on her. Putman played outfield for the Tiger softball team from 2012-15.“I think being a college athlete prepared me the most for this kind of situation,” said Putman, who graduated with her bachelor of nursing in 2016. “Our coach always taught us to pay attention to detail, to be prepared for whatever might come, and then you aren’t caught off guard as much.”That adaptability has now become a way of life for Putman, who works primarily in ICU. She referred to a presentation during her senior year in college as a defining moment. The presenter told the students that one day they were going to be the ones who will need to step up and react while the world is still in shock.“He was right,” Putman said. “These COVID-19 patients are like nothing I’ve ever seen. We, as health care professionals, are still learning and adapting to how these patients present themselves and how they change during their hospital stay.”Putman learned early on in the pandemic how serious it is&nbsp;when her first patient who tested positive for the virus didn’t survive.“That was a huge reality check for us,” she said. “All the unknowns about the virus can be frustrating.”Even with all the uncertainty surrounding her, Putman said that listening to and caring for the patients is rewarding. She often calls on lessons learned at FHSU to help her keep moving forward.“When things get chaotic, the best thing we can do is stay calm and keep our emotions at bay,” she said. “Everyone is going to benefit from that in the long run.”In what has become the new normal, Putman takes each day one at a time without planning too far ahead. Whatever she will face in the coming days, weeks and months, she is certain of one thing.“Nursing is a calling, and it was my calling,” Putman said. “I’ve never doubted it, even in this pandemic.”

FHSU nursing grads fighting COVID-19 throughout US

On April 10, 2020, between 6-6:36 PM, two men were alleged to have shoplifted at Walmart, 2900 South Ninth Street. 

The persons later left in a black 1995 Honda Passport SUV with a Kansas tag, registered in McPherson County (Lindsborg).

Both males appear to be in their 20s. The first subject wore a black jacket with blue running pants, with white stripes. The other person was wearing a grey and black sweater, with red pants. Both had facial hair. 

If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org">https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org</a> to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name. 20-11144.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589553021642.jpeg" alt="Surveillance photos courtesy Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>Surveillance photos courtesy Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>On April 10, 2020, between 6-6:36 PM, two men were alleged to have shoplifted at Walmart, 2900 South Ninth Street. The persons later left in a black 1995 Honda Passport SUV with a Kansas tag, registered in McPherson County (Lindsborg).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589553069076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Both males appear to be in their 20s. The first subject wore a black jacket with blue running pants, with white stripes. The other person was wearing a grey and black sweater, with red pants. Both had facial hair. If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org">https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org</a> to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name. 20-11144.

Crimestoppers seeks tips about alleged shoplifting

A car reported stolen in central Salina is returned, but a laptop that was inside is still missing.

A 36-year-old Salina woman reported that her 2013 Nissan Altima was stolen sometime between 3-7:45 a.m. Thursday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

The woman said she had given a female acquaintance a ride and returned with the acquaintance to her home in the 400 block of South Phillips where the two parted ways, Forrester reported. The woman noticed the car, valued at $7,000, was missing when she woke up at approximately 7:45 a.m. Thursday, he added. She also noticed that the car key fob that was attached to a lanyard on her bookbag was missing.

At approximtely 1 p.m. Thursday, the woman contacted police again to report that another friend had returned the car and told her that the acquaintance had requested that she bring it back, Forrester explained. She reported, however, that an HP laptop computer, valued at $200, was missing from the car, he noted.

The investigation is ongoing, Forrester added. 

A car reported stolen in central Salina is returned, but a laptop that was inside is still missing.A 36-year-old Salina woman reported that her 2013 Nissan Altima was stolen sometime between 3-7:45 a.m. Thursday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.The woman said she had given a female acquaintance a ride and returned with the acquaintance to her home in the 400 block of South Phillips where the two parted ways, Forrester reported. The woman noticed the car, valued at $7,000, was missing when she woke up at approximately 7:45 a.m. Thursday, he added. She also noticed that the car key fob that was attached to a lanyard on her bookbag was missing.At approximtely 1 p.m. Thursday, the woman contacted police again to report that another friend had returned the car and told her that the acquaintance had requested that she bring it back, Forrester explained. She reported, however, that an HP laptop computer, valued at $200, was missing from the car, he noted.The investigation is ongoing, Forrester added.

Police: Car reported stolen is returned, but laptop missing

CONCORDIA -- Interim Cloud County Community College President Amber Knoettgen and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success Pedro Leite released a plan Thursday outlining the college’s plan for the future.

Knoettgen was named interim president last week, following the non-renewal of Dr. Adrian Douglas, who had been Cloud’s president since May 2018.

The framework for “moving forward with excellence” was presented to the College Board of Trustees at a special meeting Wednesday and takes the college into the coming school year.

Rebuilding trust is first on the list, and Knoettgen said she and Leite will continue and expand the work initiated by Douglas, as well as forge open communication with staff and faculty.

“We plan to rebuild trust by having question and answer sessions with the faculty association, faculty and department meetings,” Leite said. “We also plan to implement a monthly campus community meeting to keep those lines of communication open.”

With the upcoming Higher Learning Commission accreditation visit, in October, Leite will continue working with various committees to prepare the college.

The college also faces potential decreases in enrollment and funding due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to boost enrollment, the college has implemented a reduced rate for summer courses, as well as applied for grants to market several academic programs.

Leite is also working with the Geary County campus to move forward with course offerings that will benefit local industry, as well as various partnerships in the area.

&nbsp;The coming fiscal year will see a 10-percent reduction in all department budgets, but at this time, Knoettgen said there are no plans for a reduction in personnel. Departments are also currently working on plans for a Fall 2020 return of students to campus. An Academic Affairs and Student Success team is working on logistics for offering face-to-face courses, classes with lab components, and Zoom conferencing technology courses.

“With the dedication of our entire team, we are sure to accomplish these challenges placed before us,” Knoettgen said. “Now, more than ever, we are placing faith in the great teamwork everyone has been showing these past few months.”

CONCORDIA -- Interim Cloud County Community College President Amber Knoettgen and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success Pedro Leite released a plan Thursday outlining the college’s plan for the future.Knoettgen was named interim president last week, following the non-renewal of Dr. Adrian Douglas, who had been Cloud’s president since May 2018.The framework for “moving forward with excellence” was presented to the College Board of Trustees at a special meeting Wednesday and takes the college into the coming school year.Rebuilding trust is first on the list, and Knoettgen said she and Leite will continue and expand the work initiated by Douglas, as well as forge open communication with staff and faculty.“We plan to rebuild trust by having question and answer sessions with the faculty association, faculty and department meetings,” Leite said. “We also plan to implement a monthly campus community meeting to keep those lines of communication open.”With the upcoming Higher Learning Commission accreditation visit, in October, Leite will continue working with various committees to prepare the college.The college also faces potential decreases in enrollment and funding due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to boost enrollment, the college has implemented a reduced rate for summer courses, as well as applied for grants to market several academic programs.Leite is also working with the Geary County campus to move forward with course offerings that will benefit local industry, as well as various partnerships in the area.&nbsp;The coming fiscal year will see a 10-percent reduction in all department budgets, but at this time, Knoettgen said there are no plans for a reduction in personnel. Departments are also currently working on plans for a Fall 2020 return of students to campus. An Academic Affairs and Student Success team is working on logistics for offering face-to-face courses, classes with lab components, and Zoom conferencing technology courses.“With the dedication of our entire team, we are sure to accomplish these challenges placed before us,” Knoettgen said. “Now, more than ever, we are placing faith in the great teamwork everyone has been showing these past few months.”

CCCC president out; interim releases plan to move forward

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Eight new graduates of Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="http://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>&nbsp;are receiving awards from the college for excellence, potential or promise, including one from Salina.

The awards include the Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award for excellence in leadership and scholarship; the Outstanding Future Teacher Award is presented to one new elementary education graduate and one new secondary education graduate for their potential as future teachers; and two students earned the Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of Promise Award.

The award winners are all May 2020 bachelor's graduates from the college:

Gabriel Younger, secondary education-biological sciences,&nbsp;Easton, Outstanding Future Teacher Award. Younger was a member of the College of Education Ambassadors, serving as treasurer, and was a Snyder Leadership Legacy Fellow, a select honor offered through K-State's Staley School of Leadership Studies. He has worked at the Kansas State University Gardens and is active with Big Brothers Big Sisters in Manhattan. Younger also was selected as an extension agent in the Peace Corps and served in Cameroon. The son of Guy and Shannon Younger, he is a 2016 graduate of Pleasant Ridge High School.

Kathleen Andrews, secondary education-mathematics,&nbsp;&nbsp;Lenexa, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Andrews is a member of the University Honors Program and multiple-time recipient of K-State semester honors. She completed an undergraduate research project in fall 2019 with a partner and her research advisor on the teacher's role in student interest in STEM fields. Andrews is the recipient of the Noyce Scholarship and Foundations Scholarship and worked as an on-campus tutor for two years. She was a member of Alpha of Clovia Cooperative Leadership House where she served as new member chair, treasurer and chaplain. She also was active with St. Isadore's Student Center, serving as a retreat leader for junior high nights. The daughter of Clint and Suzanne Andrews, she was home-schooled.

Hannah Patterson, educational studies,&nbsp;Merriam, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Patterson, earned K-State semester honors multiple times, was a member of the University Honors Program, College of Education Ambassadors, College of Education Honors Council, Kansas National Education Association and Phi Kappa Phi honorary. She received the Foundation Scholarship, Elementary Education Scholarship, College of Education Scholarship, Holton Scholarship, Cain Scholarship, Skeen Scholarship and North Star Scholarship. She was a presenter at an undergraduate research fair, a member of the K-State Choirs and was active with Reformed University Fellowship and Navigators. She also was vice president of Swing Club. The daughter of Ron and Mary Lou Patterson, she is a 2015 graduate of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School.

Jordan Pulliam, secondary education-English and journalism,&nbsp;Mulvane, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Pulliam was a member of several organizations, including College of Education Ambassadors, serving as president in 2018 and as Experience Day chair in 2017; Quest Freshmen Honorary; Silver Key Sophomore Honorary; and Alpha Delta Pi sorority, serving as alumni relations chair. Earning K-State semester honors multiple times, she received the Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, Jack J. Isgur Foundation Scholarship and the K-State Achievement Award. Pulliam was one of nine students selected by College of Education Dean Debbie Mercer for a 2017 exploratory trip to Zayed University in Dubai. She was a student technology assistant for the college and was involved with K-State's Channel 8 News, winning students awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters, and wrote articles for the Kansas State Collegian. Pulliam also worked as a production manager for HGTV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" in summer 2019, a production assistant for "Treehouse Masters" on the Discovery Channel from 2016-2017; and as a photographer for the Boston Red Sox in summer 2018. In addition, she was active with Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership from 2016-2019, serving as a junior facilitator, program manager and director of Leadership in Action. The daughter of Dustin and DeVon Pulliam, she is a 2016 graduate of Mulvane High School.

Katie Buhler, elementary education,&nbsp;Pratt, Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of Promise and Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Buhler successfully completed the University Honors Program. She has received the Jack J. Isgur Education Foundation Scholarship, Nancy Larson Foundation Scholarship and Alpha Kappa Alpha National Education Advancement Foundation Scholarship, and was a Sodexo Global Youth Service Day grant recipient. Buhler was a member of K-State's chapter of the Kansas National Education Association, Aspiring Educators; College of Education Ambassadors, serving as secretary; K-State Student Alumni Board; and Quest Freshmen Honorary. A student coordinator for the K-State Alternative Breaks program offered through the Staley School of Leadership Studies, Buhler was named the university's top student worker with the 2020 Kyle Pelton Student Employee of the Year award. Her other honors include the 2020 Tony Jurich Commitment and Leadership Award, College of Education Social Justice Award and College of Education Diversity for Community Grant. She also participated on a K-State International Team, was an undergraduate research presenter and a Spotlight on English research presenter, served as a Weekend Alternative Break site leader and participated in a Winter Alternative Break. The daughter of Don and Sue Buhler, she is a 2016 graduate of Pratt High School.

Trey Cullins, secondary education-English,&nbsp;Salina, Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of Promise. A K-State semester honors list student, Cullins received the Kansas Board of Regents Teacher Service Scholarship and the Benjamin L. Hopper Outstanding Service Scholarship. A College of Education EDCATS squad leader, he is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society in education, and Delta Sigma Pi fraternity, where he earned its Academic Achievement Award. He also served as a library assistant at the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine. The son of Larry and Deanne Cullins, he is a 2016 graduate of Salina Central High School.

Rachel Letellier, elementary education,&nbsp;Spring Hill, Outstanding Future Teacher Award. Letellier, a member of the National Education Association, is the recipient of the Clark Education Scholarship, Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, Compton Teacher Scholarship and the Foundation Scholarship. She is the daughter of Leigh and Ann Letellier and a 2016 graduate of Spring Hill High School.

Brooke Barrett, elementary education,&nbsp;O'Fallon, Missouri, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Barrett was a member of the College of Education Ambassadors; Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society of education; and K-State's student chapter of the Kansas National Education Association, Aspiring Educators. A K-State semester honors list student, she received the College of Education Scholarship, Transfer Purple and White Scholarship, Painters Association Scholarship and the Anthony Armstrong Scholarship. She was a photographer for the Royal Purple yearbook and the Kansas State Collegian. Barrett transferred to K-State from Williams Woods University where she was a member of the women's golf team. The daughter of William and Susan Barrett, she is a 2016 graduate of Fort Zumwalt High School in O'Fallon.

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Eight new graduates of Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="http://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>&nbsp;are receiving awards from the college for excellence, potential or promise, including one from Salina.The awards include the Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award for excellence in leadership and scholarship; the Outstanding Future Teacher Award is presented to one new elementary education graduate and one new secondary education graduate for their potential as future teachers; and two students earned the Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of Promise Award.The award winners are all May 2020 bachelor's graduates from the college:Gabriel Younger, secondary education-biological sciences,&nbsp;Easton, Outstanding Future Teacher Award. Younger was a member of the College of Education Ambassadors, serving as treasurer, and was a Snyder Leadership Legacy Fellow, a select honor offered through K-State's Staley School of Leadership Studies. He has worked at the Kansas State University Gardens and is active with Big Brothers Big Sisters in Manhattan. Younger also was selected as an extension agent in the Peace Corps and served in Cameroon. The son of Guy and Shannon Younger, he is a 2016 graduate of Pleasant Ridge High School.Kathleen Andrews, secondary education-mathematics,&nbsp;&nbsp;Lenexa, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Andrews is a member of the University Honors Program and multiple-time recipient of K-State semester honors. She completed an undergraduate research project in fall 2019 with a partner and her research advisor on the teacher's role in student interest in STEM fields. Andrews is the recipient of the Noyce Scholarship and Foundations Scholarship and worked as an on-campus tutor for two years. She was a member of Alpha of Clovia Cooperative Leadership House where she served as new member chair, treasurer and chaplain. She also was active with St. Isadore's Student Center, serving as a retreat leader for junior high nights. The daughter of Clint and Suzanne Andrews, she was home-schooled.Hannah Patterson, educational studies,&nbsp;Merriam, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Patterson, earned K-State semester honors multiple times, was a member of the University Honors Program, College of Education Ambassadors, College of Education Honors Council, Kansas National Education Association and Phi Kappa Phi honorary. She received the Foundation Scholarship, Elementary Education Scholarship, College of Education Scholarship, Holton Scholarship, Cain Scholarship, Skeen Scholarship and North Star Scholarship. She was a presenter at an undergraduate research fair, a member of the K-State Choirs and was active with Reformed University Fellowship and Navigators. She also was vice president of Swing Club. The daughter of Ron and Mary Lou Patterson, she is a 2015 graduate of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School.Jordan Pulliam, secondary education-English and journalism,&nbsp;Mulvane, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Pulliam was a member of several organizations, including College of Education Ambassadors, serving as president in 2018 and as Experience Day chair in 2017; Quest Freshmen Honorary; Silver Key Sophomore Honorary; and Alpha Delta Pi sorority, serving as alumni relations chair. Earning K-State semester honors multiple times, she received the Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, Jack J. Isgur Foundation Scholarship and the K-State Achievement Award. Pulliam was one of nine students selected by College of Education Dean Debbie Mercer for a 2017 exploratory trip to Zayed University in Dubai. She was a student technology assistant for the college and was involved with K-State's Channel 8 News, winning students awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters, and wrote articles for the Kansas State Collegian. Pulliam also worked as a production manager for HGTV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" in summer 2019, a production assistant for "Treehouse Masters" on the Discovery Channel from 2016-2017; and as a photographer for the Boston Red Sox in summer 2018. In addition, she was active with Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership from 2016-2019, serving as a junior facilitator, program manager and director of Leadership in Action. The daughter of Dustin and DeVon Pulliam, she is a 2016 graduate of Mulvane High School.Katie Buhler, elementary education,&nbsp;Pratt, Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of Promise and Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Buhler successfully completed the University Honors Program. She has received the Jack J. Isgur Education Foundation Scholarship, Nancy Larson Foundation Scholarship and Alpha Kappa Alpha National Education Advancement Foundation Scholarship, and was a Sodexo Global Youth Service Day grant recipient. Buhler was a member of K-State's chapter of the Kansas National Education Association, Aspiring Educators; College of Education Ambassadors, serving as secretary; K-State Student Alumni Board; and Quest Freshmen Honorary. A student coordinator for the K-State Alternative Breaks program offered through the Staley School of Leadership Studies, Buhler was named the university's top student worker with the 2020 Kyle Pelton Student Employee of the Year award. Her other honors include the 2020 Tony Jurich Commitment and Leadership Award, College of Education Social Justice Award and College of Education Diversity for Community Grant. She also participated on a K-State International Team, was an undergraduate research presenter and a Spotlight on English research presenter, served as a Weekend Alternative Break site leader and participated in a Winter Alternative Break. The daughter of Don and Sue Buhler, she is a 2016 graduate of Pratt High School.Trey Cullins, secondary education-English,&nbsp;Salina, Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of Promise. A K-State semester honors list student, Cullins received the Kansas Board of Regents Teacher Service Scholarship and the Benjamin L. Hopper Outstanding Service Scholarship. A College of Education EDCATS squad leader, he is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society in education, and Delta Sigma Pi fraternity, where he earned its Academic Achievement Award. He also served as a library assistant at the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine. The son of Larry and Deanne Cullins, he is a 2016 graduate of Salina Central High School.Rachel Letellier, elementary education,&nbsp;Spring Hill, Outstanding Future Teacher Award. Letellier, a member of the National Education Association, is the recipient of the Clark Education Scholarship, Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, Compton Teacher Scholarship and the Foundation Scholarship. She is the daughter of Leigh and Ann Letellier and a 2016 graduate of Spring Hill High School.Brooke Barrett, elementary education,&nbsp;O'Fallon, Missouri, Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. Barrett was a member of the College of Education Ambassadors; Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society of education; and K-State's student chapter of the Kansas National Education Association, Aspiring Educators. A K-State semester honors list student, she received the College of Education Scholarship, Transfer Purple and White Scholarship, Painters Association Scholarship and the Anthony Armstrong Scholarship. She was a photographer for the Royal Purple yearbook and the Kansas State Collegian. Barrett transferred to K-State from Williams Woods University where she was a member of the women's golf team. The daughter of William and Susan Barrett, she is a 2016 graduate of Fort Zumwalt High School in O'Fallon.

K-State College of Education honors 8 grads; 1 from Salina

Open letter to Saline County
Commissioners:

On behalf of the Saline County
Citizens for Jail Reform group we would like to express gratitude for the time,
effort, and thought that has gone into preparation for a public vote on&nbsp; a proposed new jail and/or addition to the
present jail.&nbsp; We appreciate your openness to larger goals of remediation
and treatment for inmates who may be incarcerated due in part to poverty, drug
abuse, or mental illness.&nbsp; We are grateful for your concern to provide all
inmates communication with family and/or loved ones, as well as options for
second chances within the jail system.&nbsp;&nbsp; We know great attention has
been paid to overall costs for facilities and for ongoing services and
personnel. &nbsp; 

That said, given the dire nature
of present economic circumstances and the need for long-term financial recovery
once Covid-19 is no longer a threat, we call on you to postpone a public vote on this issue beyond November.&nbsp; 

We continue to support, and urge
expansion of, significant efforts toward reducing incarceration rates and
improving the amount and quality of rehabilitation and treatment programming to
help assure inmates’ return to full and meaningful lives in our
communities.&nbsp; Such efforts should continue and be strengthened, whether or
not a new jail is an immediate possibility. &nbsp;

We recognize that all this will
be difficult in more difficult economic times.&nbsp;
But such efforts are even more essential because of greater economic and
other pressures on everyday citizens.&nbsp; 

We know that sacrifices (monetary
costs included) will be necessary, in any event.&nbsp; We ask the public, as
well as commissioners, to think through, and commit to, longer-term solutions
that will enhance, not diminish, human dignity for all citizens, in jail or
out.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Open letter to Saline County
Commissioners:On behalf of the Saline County
Citizens for Jail Reform group we would like to express gratitude for the time,
effort, and thought that has gone into preparation for a public vote on&nbsp; a proposed new jail and/or addition to the
present jail.&nbsp; We appreciate your openness to larger goals of remediation
and treatment for inmates who may be incarcerated due in part to poverty, drug
abuse, or mental illness.&nbsp; We are grateful for your concern to provide all
inmates communication with family and/or loved ones, as well as options for
second chances within the jail system.&nbsp;&nbsp; We know great attention has
been paid to overall costs for facilities and for ongoing services and
personnel. &nbsp; Thank you for these
efforts!&nbsp; That said, given the dire nature
of present economic circumstances and the need for long-term financial recovery
once Covid-19 is no longer a threat, we call on you to postpone a public vote on this issue beyond November.&nbsp; We continue to support, and urge
expansion of, significant efforts toward reducing incarceration rates and
improving the amount and quality of rehabilitation and treatment programming to
help assure inmates’ return to full and meaningful lives in our
communities.&nbsp; Such efforts should continue and be strengthened, whether or
not a new jail is an immediate possibility. &nbsp;We recognize that all this will
be difficult in more difficult economic times.&nbsp;
But such efforts are even more essential because of greater economic and
other pressures on everyday citizens.&nbsp; We know that sacrifices (monetary
costs included) will be necessary, in any event.&nbsp; We ask the public, as
well as commissioners, to think through, and commit to, longer-term solutions
that will enhance, not diminish, human dignity for all citizens, in jail or
out.&nbsp; &nbsp;LaNay MeierGerald GillespieDavid Norlin

Jail reform group: Postpone vote on proposed facility

Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Secretary Julie Lorenz announced today that preliminary engineering work will begin on 40 highway modernization and expansion projects.

These are the first projects to move forward under the Eisenhower Transportation Legacy Program (IKE, which was created in March.

“These transportation investments come at a critical time for our state’s economy. A robust development pipeline will help jumpstart our economic recovery by creating jobs and allowing the state to take advantage of potential federal stimulus dollars,” said Governor Kelly. “I’m thankful to the Legislature for passing IKE, a critical employment tool that will help put more Kansans back to work.”

“A modern transportation system moves people, freight and technology and these 40 projects will allow us to do all those things better in every region of the state,” Secretary Lorenz said. “We’ve selected smaller projects, which can advance to construction quickly, and larger projects that will employ many people in all phases of development or construction.”

More than 2,000 Kansans participated in local consult discussions that shaped the IKE program and modernized how transportation should be delivered in Kansas. Here are a few notable features:

•IKE is a&nbsp;rolling program, which means major highway modernization and expansion projects will be selected every two years rather than once a decade as previous programs did. This ensures the State can address the most pressing needs and adjust to fluctuating revenues.

•Emphasis on&nbsp;right-sized, practical improvements.&nbsp; For example, utilizing passing lanes rather than 4-lane expressways where applicable.

•New&nbsp;partnership programs (Cost Share, Local Bridge)&nbsp;between the State and local governments to address more needs.

•Investments in&nbsp;broadband and new technologies.

•Continued commitment to&nbsp;multimodal transportation with public transit, aviation, short-line rail and bike/pedestrian programs.

Previously, the only projects in KDOT’s development pipeline were the remaining T-WORKS projects.&nbsp; The development pipeline includes all the phases of work prior to construction such as design, acquiring right-of-way or moving utilities. KDOT is not committing to constructing these 40 projects, but this will allow the necessary advance work to begin.&nbsp;

“I’ve directed KDOT to explore all options for accelerating project delivery for these 40 projects and for the&nbsp;delayed T-WORKS projects, which we remain committed to constructing,” the Governor said. “Transportation investments provide short-term and long-term economic benefits to communities and we’re committed to capturing as many of those opportunities as we can.”

The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the last stimulus for transportation infrastructure, prioritized shovel-ready projects. Currently, discussions are underway for a new federal stimulus bill for infrastructure, which will likely have similar requirements. Today’s announcement will allow KDOT to get more projects shovel ready.

“Thanks to Governor Kelly, the Legislature and Kansans, IKE was tailor made for this moment,” Lorenz said.&nbsp; “It provides us the flexibility we need now and in the future. Today’s announcement is only the beginning. We know we have much more work to do.”

To see the entire District 2 pdf, <a href="http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/IKE/Documents/District_2_Guarantee_Handout_FINAL.pdf">click here</a>.

More information about IKE, including the list of 40 projects selected, is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.org%2FIKE.asp&amp;data=02%7C01%7CAshley.Perez%40ks.gov%7C70157cf69fa34b232e4508d7f8264597%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637250715673153807&amp;sdata=erZecbxYB7y5sbolZCyRWd66CDjAndkC6ud6aNsKxDA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/IKE.asp</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589513964625.jpeg" alt="The projects in District 2, which includes north-central Kansas.&nbsp;Chart courtesy KDOT&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The projects in District 2, which includes north-central Kansas.&nbsp;Chart courtesy KDOT&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Secretary Julie Lorenz announced today that preliminary engineering work will begin on 40 highway modernization and expansion projects.These are the first projects to move forward under the Eisenhower Transportation Legacy Program (IKE, which was created in March.“These transportation investments come at a critical time for our state’s economy. A robust development pipeline will help jumpstart our economic recovery by creating jobs and allowing the state to take advantage of potential federal stimulus dollars,” said Governor Kelly. “I’m thankful to the Legislature for passing IKE, a critical employment tool that will help put more Kansans back to work.”“A modern transportation system moves people, freight and technology and these 40 projects will allow us to do all those things better in every region of the state,” Secretary Lorenz said. “We’ve selected smaller projects, which can advance to construction quickly, and larger projects that will employ many people in all phases of development or construction.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589514143626.jpeg" alt="Courtesy KDOT" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>More than 2,000 Kansans participated in local consult discussions that shaped the IKE program and modernized how transportation should be delivered in Kansas. Here are a few notable features:•IKE is a&nbsp;rolling program, which means major highway modernization and expansion projects will be selected every two years rather than once a decade as previous programs did. This ensures the State can address the most pressing needs and adjust to fluctuating revenues.•Emphasis on&nbsp;right-sized, practical improvements.&nbsp; For example, utilizing passing lanes rather than 4-lane expressways where applicable.•New&nbsp;partnership programs (Cost Share, Local Bridge)&nbsp;between the State and local governments to address more needs.•Investments in&nbsp;broadband and new technologies.•Continued commitment to&nbsp;multimodal transportation with public transit, aviation, short-line rail and bike/pedestrian programs.Previously, the only projects in KDOT’s development pipeline were the remaining T-WORKS projects.&nbsp; The development pipeline includes all the phases of work prior to construction such as design, acquiring right-of-way or moving utilities. KDOT is not committing to constructing these 40 projects, but this will allow the necessary advance work to begin.&nbsp;“I’ve directed KDOT to explore all options for accelerating project delivery for these 40 projects and for the&nbsp;delayed T-WORKS projects, which we remain committed to constructing,” the Governor said. “Transportation investments provide short-term and long-term economic benefits to communities and we’re committed to capturing as many of those opportunities as we can.”The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the last stimulus for transportation infrastructure, prioritized shovel-ready projects. Currently, discussions are underway for a new federal stimulus bill for infrastructure, which will likely have similar requirements. Today’s announcement will allow KDOT to get more projects shovel ready.“Thanks to Governor Kelly, the Legislature and Kansans, IKE was tailor made for this moment,” Lorenz said.&nbsp; “It provides us the flexibility we need now and in the future. Today’s announcement is only the beginning. We know we have much more work to do.”To see the entire District 2 pdf, <a href="http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/IKE/Documents/District_2_Guarantee_Handout_FINAL.pdf">click here</a>.More information about IKE, including the list of 40 projects selected, is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.org%2FIKE.asp&amp;data=02%7C01%7CAshley.Perez%40ks.gov%7C70157cf69fa34b232e4508d7f8264597%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637250715673153807&amp;sdata=erZecbxYB7y5sbolZCyRWd66CDjAndkC6ud6aNsKxDA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/IKE.asp</a>.

KDOT: Area projects part of IKE development pipeline

MANHATTAN – It’s&nbsp;that&nbsp;time of year for home gardeners.

Kansas State University horticulture specialist Ward Upham says rabbits are a perennial problem in most home gardens because of the wide variety of plants they can feed on. And because vegetables and flowers are in an early stage, they’re especially appealing to the furry little critters.

“Fencing can provide a quick and effective control method,” Upham said. “The fence does not need to be tall; two feet is sufficient to keep cottontails out.”

Upham said gardeners should construct a fence with fine mesh (one inch or less) so that young rabbits can’t squeeze through it. Select posts that will give the fence adequate support, he added. Gardeners, however, often avoid fencing because it affects the attractiveness of the garden.

There are other means of control – repellants, traps and shooting among them – though Upham provided a couple additional ideas that may be more desirable.

“Another type of barrier is a floating row cover,” Upham said, referring to a light piece of garden fabric used to shelter crops. “Though most often used to promote early growth by keeping plants warmer than normal, it can also help protect young plants from insects and wildlife.”

He also suggested a motion-activated sprinkler. “These can be attached to a garden hose,” Upham said. “When motion is detected, it will release a short burst of water,” providing protection for up to 1,000 feet.

Upham noted that rabbits rarely bother such crops as potatoes, tomatoes, corn, squash, cucumbers and some peppers. Gardeners’ control efforts should focus on other, more susceptible crops.

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for keeping yards healthy and beautiful year-round. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.

Interested persons can also send their yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589514967124.jpeg" alt="Rabbit in garden photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Rabbit in garden photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – It’s&nbsp;that&nbsp;time of year for home gardeners.Kansas State University horticulture specialist Ward Upham says rabbits are a perennial problem in most home gardens because of the wide variety of plants they can feed on. And because vegetables and flowers are in an early stage, they’re especially appealing to the furry little critters.“Fencing can provide a quick and effective control method,” Upham said. “The fence does not need to be tall; two feet is sufficient to keep cottontails out.”Upham said gardeners should construct a fence with fine mesh (one inch or less) so that young rabbits can’t squeeze through it. Select posts that will give the fence adequate support, he added. Gardeners, however, often avoid fencing because it affects the attractiveness of the garden.There are other means of control – repellants, traps and shooting among them – though Upham provided a couple additional ideas that may be more desirable.“Another type of barrier is a floating row cover,” Upham said, referring to a light piece of garden fabric used to shelter crops. “Though most often used to promote early growth by keeping plants warmer than normal, it can also help protect young plants from insects and wildlife.”He also suggested a motion-activated sprinkler. “These can be attached to a garden hose,” Upham said. “When motion is detected, it will release a short burst of water,” providing protection for up to 1,000 feet.Upham noted that rabbits rarely bother such crops as potatoes, tomatoes, corn, squash, cucumbers and some peppers. Gardeners’ control efforts should focus on other, more susceptible crops.Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for keeping yards healthy and beautiful year-round. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.Interested persons can also send their yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>.

Wascally Wabbits? Tips for keeping bunnies out of the garden

Today is Friday, May 15, the 136th day of 2020. There are 230 days left in the year.

On May 15, 1948, hours after declaring its independence, the new state of Israel was attacked by Transjordan, Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon.

In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed an act establishing the Department of Agriculture.

In 1918, U.S. airmail began service between Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York.

In 1930, registered nurse Ellen Church, the first airline stewardess, went on duty aboard an Oakland-to-Chicago flight operated by Boeing Air Transport, a forerunner of United Airlines.

In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a measure creating the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, whose members came to be known as WACs. Wartime gasoline rationing went into effect in 17 Eastern states, limiting sales to three gallons a week for non-essential vehicles.

In 1954, the Fender Stratocaster guitar, created by Leo Fender, was officially released.

In 1963, Weight Watchers was incorporated in New York.

In 1968, two days of tornado outbreaks began in 10 Midwestern and Southern states; twisters were blamed for 72 deaths, including 45 in Arkansas and 18 in Iowa.

In 1970, just after midnight, Phillip Lafayette Gibbs and James Earl Green, two black students at Jackson State College in Mississippi, were killed as police opened fire during student protests.

In 1972, Alabama Gov. George C. Wallace was shot and left paralyzed while campaigning for president in Laurel, Maryland, by Arthur H. Bremer, who served 35 years for attempted murder.

In 1975, U.S. forces invaded the Cambodian island of Koh Tang and captured the American merchant ship Mayaguez, which had been seized by the Khmer Rouge. (All 39 crew members had already been released safely by Cambodia; some 40 U.S. servicemen were killed in connection with the operation.)

In 1988, the Soviet Union began the process of withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, more than eight years after Soviet forces entered the country.

In 2000, by a 5-4 vote, the U.S. Supreme Court threw out a key provision of the 1994 Violence Against Women Act, saying that rape victims could not sue their attackers in federal court.

Ten years ago: Jessica Watson, a 16-year-old Australian who'd spent seven months at sea in her pink yacht, became the youngest person to sail around the world solo, nonstop and unassisted as she arrived in Sydney.

Five years ago: A jury sentenced Dzhokhar Tsarnaev to death for the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing that killed three and left more than 250 wounded. Elisabeth Bing, the Lamaze International co-founder who popularized what was known as natural childbirth and helped change how women and doctors approached the delivery room, died in New York at age 100.

One year ago: Alabama's Republican governor, Kay Ivey, signed into law the most stringent abortion legislation in the nation, making performing an abortion a felony in nearly all cases. (The law remains blocked by court challenges.) President Donald Trump granted a full pardon to Conrad Black, a former newspaper publisher who had written a flattering political biography of Trump. (Black had been convicted of fraud in 2007 and spent more than three years in prison.) California fire officials said an investigation found that power lines owned by Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Corp. had sparked a Northern California blaze that killed 85 people and nearly destroyed the town of Paradise in 2018; it was the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century.

Today's Birthdays: Actress-singer Anna Maria Alberghetti is 84. Counterculture icon Wavy Gravy is 84. Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright is 83. Singer Trini Lopez is 83. Singer Lenny Welch is 82. Actress-singer Lainie Kazan is 78. Actress Gunilla Hutton is 78. Country singer K.T. Oslin is 78. Actor Chazz Palminteri is 74. Former Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is 72. Singer-songwriter Brian Eno is 72. Actor Nicholas Hammond (Film: "The Sound of Music") is 70. Baseball Hall of Famer George Brett is 67. Musician-composer Mike Oldfield is 67. Actor Lee Horsley is 65. TV personality Giselle Fernandez is 59. Rapper Grandmaster Melle Mel is 59. Actress Brenda Bakke is 57. Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith is 51. Actor Brad Rowe is 50. Actor David Charvet is 48. Actor Russell Hornsby is 46. Rock musician Ahmet Zappa is 46. Olympic gold medal gymnast Amy Chow is 42. Actor David Krumholtz is 42. Rock musician David Hartley (The War on Drugs) is 40. Actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler is 39. Actress Alexandra Breckenridge is 38. Rock musician Brad Shultz (Cage the Elephant) is 38. Rock musician Nick Perri is 36. Tennis player Andy Murray is 33.

Thought for Today: "Martyrdom has always been a proof of the intensity, never of the correctness of a belief." — Arthur Schnitzler (1862-1931).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Friday, May 15, the 136th day of 2020. There are 230 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 15, 1948, hours after declaring its independence, the new state of Israel was attacked by Transjordan, Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon.On this date:In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed an act establishing the Department of Agriculture.In 1918, U.S. airmail began service between Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York.In 1930, registered nurse Ellen Church, the first airline stewardess, went on duty aboard an Oakland-to-Chicago flight operated by Boeing Air Transport, a forerunner of United Airlines.In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a measure creating the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, whose members came to be known as WACs. Wartime gasoline rationing went into effect in 17 Eastern states, limiting sales to three gallons a week for non-essential vehicles.In 1954, the Fender Stratocaster guitar, created by Leo Fender, was officially released.In 1963, Weight Watchers was incorporated in New York.In 1968, two days of tornado outbreaks began in 10 Midwestern and Southern states; twisters were blamed for 72 deaths, including 45 in Arkansas and 18 in Iowa.In 1970, just after midnight, Phillip Lafayette Gibbs and James Earl Green, two black students at Jackson State College in Mississippi, were killed as police opened fire during student protests.In 1972, Alabama Gov. George C. Wallace was shot and left paralyzed while campaigning for president in Laurel, Maryland, by Arthur H. Bremer, who served 35 years for attempted murder.In 1975, U.S. forces invaded the Cambodian island of Koh Tang and captured the American merchant ship Mayaguez, which had been seized by the Khmer Rouge. (All 39 crew members had already been released safely by Cambodia; some 40 U.S. servicemen were killed in connection with the operation.)In 1988, the Soviet Union began the process of withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, more than eight years after Soviet forces entered the country.In 2000, by a 5-4 vote, the U.S. Supreme Court threw out a key provision of the 1994 Violence Against Women Act, saying that rape victims could not sue their attackers in federal court.Ten years ago: Jessica Watson, a 16-year-old Australian who'd spent seven months at sea in her pink yacht, became the youngest person to sail around the world solo, nonstop and unassisted as she arrived in Sydney.Five years ago: A jury sentenced Dzhokhar Tsarnaev to death for the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing that killed three and left more than 250 wounded. Elisabeth Bing, the Lamaze International co-founder who popularized what was known as natural childbirth and helped change how women and doctors approached the delivery room, died in New York at age 100.One year ago: Alabama's Republican governor, Kay Ivey, signed into law the most stringent abortion legislation in the nation, making performing an abortion a felony in nearly all cases. (The law remains blocked by court challenges.) President Donald Trump granted a full pardon to Conrad Black, a former newspaper publisher who had written a flattering political biography of Trump. (Black had been convicted of fraud in 2007 and spent more than three years in prison.) California fire officials said an investigation found that power lines owned by Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Corp. had sparked a Northern California blaze that killed 85 people and nearly destroyed the town of Paradise in 2018; it was the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century.Today's Birthdays: Actress-singer Anna Maria Alberghetti is 84. Counterculture icon Wavy Gravy is 84. Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright is 83. Singer Trini Lopez is 83. Singer Lenny Welch is 82. Actress-singer Lainie Kazan is 78. Actress Gunilla Hutton is 78. Country singer K.T. Oslin is 78. Actor Chazz Palminteri is 74. Former Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is 72. Singer-songwriter Brian Eno is 72. Actor Nicholas Hammond (Film: "The Sound of Music") is 70. Baseball Hall of Famer George Brett is 67. Musician-composer Mike Oldfield is 67. Actor Lee Horsley is 65. TV personality Giselle Fernandez is 59. Rapper Grandmaster Melle Mel is 59. Actress Brenda Bakke is 57. Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith is 51. Actor Brad Rowe is 50. Actor David Charvet is 48. Actor Russell Hornsby is 46. Rock musician Ahmet Zappa is 46. Olympic gold medal gymnast Amy Chow is 42. Actor David Krumholtz is 42. Rock musician David Hartley (The War on Drugs) is 40. Actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler is 39. Actress Alexandra Breckenridge is 38. Rock musician Brad Shultz (Cage the Elephant) is 38. Rock musician Nick Perri is 36. Tennis player Andy Murray is 33.Thought for Today: "Martyrdom has always been a proof of the intensity, never of the correctness of a belief." — Arthur Schnitzler (1862-1931).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.