By NATE KING Salina Post

National Technical College Signing Day was on April 20. The day is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field and to celebrate the dignity of their work. I sat down with Brenda Gutierrez, executive director of the Salina Tech Foundation, to talk about the signing event and a $1.8 million grant awarded to Salina Tech by the Kansas Department of Commerce.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cff9a1f4-913e-4d58-9886-ff8eae19cb92">Salina Tech celebrates National Tech Signing Day</a>

The grant will fund roughly half of the cost of the college's new 15,000 square-foot building which will house the new Industrial Maintenance and Automation program. Find out more on this episode of King in the Community.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Brenda Gutierrez, Salina Technical College Foundation Director" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=di69g-13e5287-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostNational Technical College Signing Day was on April 20. The day is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field and to celebrate the dignity of their work. I sat down with Brenda Gutierrez, executive director of the Salina Tech Foundation, to talk about the signing event and a $1.8 million grant awarded to Salina Tech by the Kansas Department of Commerce.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cff9a1f4-913e-4d58-9886-ff8eae19cb92">Salina Tech celebrates National Tech Signing Day</a>The grant will fund roughly half of the cost of the college's new 15,000 square-foot building which will house the new Industrial Maintenance and Automation program. Find out more on this episode of King in the Community.&nbsp;

🎙King in the Community: Salina Tech's Brenda Gutierrez

CONCORDIA - A Concordia man was arrested on a requested charge of attempted murder early this morning.

According to a news release from the Concordia Police Department, officers were sent to the 300 block of E. First Street at approximately 2:45 a.m. Thursday for the report of a domestic disturbance. When they arrived, they found a person who had been stabbed. The person was transported to the North Central Kansas Medical Center in Concordia, and then on to Salina Regional Health Center.

Blake Snodgrass, of Concordia, was arrested at the scene on a requested charge of attempted murder, according to the release.

"Snodgrass is currently in the custody of the Cloud County Jail and there is no danger to the public at this time. No further information about this incident will be released at this time," the department noted.

By SALINA POSTCONCORDIA - A Concordia man was arrested on a requested charge of attempted murder early this morning.According to a news release from the Concordia Police Department, officers were sent to the 300 block of E. First Street at approximately 2:45 a.m. Thursday for the report of a domestic disturbance. When they arrived, they found a person who had been stabbed. The person was transported to the North Central Kansas Medical Center in Concordia, and then on to Salina Regional Health Center.Blake Snodgrass, of Concordia, was arrested at the scene on a requested charge of attempted murder, according to the release."Snodgrass is currently in the custody of the Cloud County Jail and there is no danger to the public at this time. No further information about this incident will be released at this time," the department noted.

Concordia man arrested on requested attempted murder charge

By CHELSI MEDVED K-State Communications and Marketing

MANHATTAN — The College of Health and Human Sciences welcomes the 2023-2024 student ambassadors. The student ambassadors work on- and off-campus to promote the college to alumni, friends, prospective students and families, and current K-State students. Returning ambassadors are Taylor Sweat, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Bel Aire; Natalie Burdick, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Cheney; MaKenzie Kennedy, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Circleville; Jade Valdez-Gomez, senior in dietetics,&nbsp;Garden City; Ashlynn Henry, junior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Hiawatha; Kailea Smith, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Horton; Allison Link, senior in fashion studies,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Kristina Morrison, junior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Independence; Makenzi Umphenour, senior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Mound City; Katie Bailey, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Olathe; Stephanie Ruelas, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Overland Park; Jeremy Sloan, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Paola; Meg Keeten, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Phillipsbug; Sophia Thuenemann, senior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Katie Free, senior in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Shawnee; Mary Gerber, junior in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Sliver Lake; Cooper Jepson, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Valley Falls; and Josh Sprowls, junior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Wichita. New ambassadors from Kansas: Collin Stephens, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;De Soto; Elly Murrell, senior in integrative physiology,&nbsp;Garden City; Kaylee Reiser, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Great Bend; Cara Johnson, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Lenexa; Emersyn Hall, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;LeRoy; Emma McKinsey, junior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Mayetta; Bethany Rice, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Moundridge; Laura Forrest, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Olathe; Paige Wickliffe, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in kinesiology,&nbsp;Olathe; Ava Waterman, junior in hospitality management,&nbsp;Ottawa; Ellie Ward, junior in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Overland Park; Sarah Anliker, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Overland Park; Lucy Ragland, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Emerson Nichols, sophomore in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Russell; Olivia Pennington, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in kinesiology,&nbsp;Salina; Hallie Scott, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Shawnee; Megan Ward, sophomore in public health,&nbsp;Shawnee; Alana Frigon, sophomore in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Spring Hill; Erin Thorne, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Valley Center; and Adrienne Howey, senior in Kinesiology,&nbsp;Wichita.&nbsp;

Out-of-state ambassadors: Ellie Yuska, junior in sports nutrition,&nbsp;Berthoud, Colo.; Josie Larson, senior in integrative physiology and kinesiology,&nbsp;Kansas City, Mo.; Aaron Sandoval, junior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Clovis, N.M.; and Alleynah Ronnau, sophomore in sports nutrition,&nbsp;Cheyenne, Wyo.

By CHELSI MEDVED K-State Communications and Marketing MANHATTAN — The College of Health and Human Sciences welcomes the 2023-2024 student ambassadors. The student ambassadors work on- and off-campus to promote the college to alumni, friends, prospective students and families, and current K-State students. Returning ambassadors are Taylor Sweat, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Bel Aire; Natalie Burdick, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Cheney; MaKenzie Kennedy, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Circleville; Jade Valdez-Gomez, senior in dietetics,&nbsp;Garden City; Ashlynn Henry, junior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Hiawatha; Kailea Smith, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Horton; Allison Link, senior in fashion studies,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Kristina Morrison, junior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Independence; Makenzi Umphenour, senior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Mound City; Katie Bailey, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Olathe; Stephanie Ruelas, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Overland Park; Jeremy Sloan, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Paola; Meg Keeten, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Phillipsbug; Sophia Thuenemann, senior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Katie Free, senior in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Shawnee; Mary Gerber, junior in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Sliver Lake; Cooper Jepson, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Valley Falls; and Josh Sprowls, junior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Wichita. New ambassadors from Kansas: Collin Stephens, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;De Soto; Elly Murrell, senior in integrative physiology,&nbsp;Garden City; Kaylee Reiser, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Great Bend; Cara Johnson, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Lenexa; Emersyn Hall, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;LeRoy; Emma McKinsey, junior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Mayetta; Bethany Rice, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Moundridge; Laura Forrest, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Olathe; Paige Wickliffe, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in kinesiology,&nbsp;Olathe; Ava Waterman, junior in hospitality management,&nbsp;Ottawa; Ellie Ward, junior in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Overland Park; Sarah Anliker, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Overland Park; Lucy Ragland, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Emerson Nichols, sophomore in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Russell; Olivia Pennington, senior&nbsp;&nbsp;in kinesiology,&nbsp;Salina; Hallie Scott, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Shawnee; Megan Ward, sophomore in public health,&nbsp;Shawnee; Alana Frigon, sophomore in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Spring Hill; Erin Thorne, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Valley Center; and Adrienne Howey, senior in Kinesiology,&nbsp;Wichita.&nbsp;Out-of-state ambassadors: Ellie Yuska, junior in sports nutrition,&nbsp;Berthoud, Colo.; Josie Larson, senior in integrative physiology and kinesiology,&nbsp;Kansas City, Mo.; Aaron Sandoval, junior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Clovis, N.M.; and Alleynah Ronnau, sophomore in sports nutrition,&nbsp;Cheyenne, Wyo.

Local, area students among those named ambassadors at K-State

They waited 'til the midnight hour, almost, it was the evening of the final day of the 2023 legislative session when lawmakers compromised on school funding and school choice voucher bills.

Republicans, Democrats, legislators from rural counties, and urbanites from up-scale Northeast suburbs had been arguing almost non-stop since January.&nbsp;

Since no group is happy with the Friday outcome, the closing bill SB113&nbsp;appears to be a true compromise.

The bill proves some sense of rational lawmaking prevailed and it will go forward for the governor’s approval or veto.

Fortunately, SB113&nbsp;continues the court-required education spending plan at S6.4 billion for the next two years but doesn’t include an additional $72 million for special education to meet the state’s statutory requirements.

Gone is the previous legislative proposal to award about $5,000 from the public school budget to current private school students who’ve never attended public school.

&nbsp;Gone is the proposal to give $1,000 to each public school student next year for educational support such as tutoring or piano lessons.

Gone are the most egregious school choice schemes—Education Savings Accounts.&nbsp; This proposal would have awarded about $5,000 of taxpayer funds for any public school student to attend private school, for home schooling or to spend on academic learning services—all without adequate oversight or evaluation.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also gone is the ESA plan’s most recent iteration that would have awarded $5,000 vouchers to individual students but only those in the 10 most populous Kansas counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The compromise bill, however, does expand&nbsp;school choice through the state’s single existing school choice program originally designed as scholarships for low-income, low-performing students.

The 2023 bill would extend scholarship opportunities to students whose families earn up to 250 percent of the federal poverty level, currently $69,375 for a family of four.&nbsp; Recipients would be eligible for up to $8,000 per year to attend private schools that are accredited or are “working toward accreditation.”&nbsp;

The scholarships are financed by individual and corporate donations that would give a 75 percent tax credit for donations up to $500,000 per year with fund disbursements capped at $10 million per year.

School choice supporters can claim compromise benefits because more Kansas students will have opportunity to finance private schooling at least partially.&nbsp;

School advocates gave up fully funding special education and accepted tax credit funding but can claim compromise benefits because ESA vouchers, the greatest threat to free public education for all, were averted.&nbsp;

Tax credit scholarships drain taxpayer dollars indirectly because they diminish the larger, general fund.&nbsp; ESAs pull taxpayer dollars directly from budgeted school funds and thus weaken rural and small town schools as well as fragmenting the education experience into multiple for-profit, ideological and religious segmentation that weakens the capability for citizenship instruction, a central mission of public schools.

As the single unifying institution of Kansas’ increasingly diverse population, safeguarding our local schools is vital.

It’s unfortunate that so much time was wasted in quarrels over school choice when it could have been devoted to important school needs like safety and security for students and teachers or ensuring all Kansas students have learning technology and internet access at home and school or increasing student achievement.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, with the session behind us, we should respect our lawmakers’ passion and acknowledge their ability to compromise, though long overdue.&nbsp; As has been often said, “better late than never.”

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio" />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHARON HARTIN IORIOThey waited 'til the midnight hour, almost, it was the evening of the final day of the 2023 legislative session when lawmakers compromised on school funding and school choice voucher bills.Republicans, Democrats, legislators from rural counties, and urbanites from up-scale Northeast suburbs had been arguing almost non-stop since January.&nbsp;Since no group is happy with the Friday outcome, the closing bill SB113&nbsp;appears to be a true compromise.The bill proves some sense of rational lawmaking prevailed and it will go forward for the governor’s approval or veto.Fortunately, SB113&nbsp;continues the court-required education spending plan at S6.4 billion for the next two years but doesn’t include an additional $72 million for special education to meet the state’s statutory requirements.Gone is the previous legislative proposal to award about $5,000 from the public school budget to current private school students who’ve never attended public school.&nbsp;Gone is the proposal to give $1,000 to each public school student next year for educational support such as tutoring or piano lessons.Gone are the most egregious school choice schemes—Education Savings Accounts.&nbsp; This proposal would have awarded about $5,000 of taxpayer funds for any public school student to attend private school, for home schooling or to spend on academic learning services—all without adequate oversight or evaluation.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also gone is the ESA plan’s most recent iteration that would have awarded $5,000 vouchers to individual students but only those in the 10 most populous Kansas counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;The compromise bill, however, does expand&nbsp;school choice through the state’s single existing school choice program originally designed as scholarships for low-income, low-performing students.The 2023 bill would extend scholarship opportunities to students whose families earn up to 250 percent of the federal poverty level, currently $69,375 for a family of four.&nbsp; Recipients would be eligible for up to $8,000 per year to attend private schools that are accredited or are “working toward accreditation.”&nbsp;The scholarships are financed by individual and corporate donations that would give a 75 percent tax credit for donations up to $500,000 per year with fund disbursements capped at $10 million per year.School choice supporters can claim compromise benefits because more Kansas students will have opportunity to finance private schooling at least partially.&nbsp;School advocates gave up fully funding special education and accepted tax credit funding but can claim compromise benefits because ESA vouchers, the greatest threat to free public education for all, were averted.&nbsp;Tax credit scholarships drain taxpayer dollars indirectly because they diminish the larger, general fund.&nbsp; ESAs pull taxpayer dollars directly from budgeted school funds and thus weaken rural and small town schools as well as fragmenting the education experience into multiple for-profit, ideological and religious segmentation that weakens the capability for citizenship instruction, a central mission of public schools.As the single unifying institution of Kansas’ increasingly diverse population, safeguarding our local schools is vital.It’s unfortunate that so much time was wasted in quarrels over school choice when it could have been devoted to important school needs like safety and security for students and teachers or ensuring all Kansas students have learning technology and internet access at home and school or increasing student achievement.&nbsp;Nevertheless, with the session behind us, we should respect our lawmakers’ passion and acknowledge their ability to compromise, though long overdue.&nbsp; As has been often said, “better late than never.”Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Legislative school choice battles...the aftermath

Even during the best economic times, adults without a high school diploma struggle to achieve success and financial stability.&nbsp; Statistics show that 1 in 10 adults do not have a high school diploma.&nbsp; According to the US Census Bureau, 9 percent, or at least 3,100 individuals in Salina, over the age of 25 do not have a high school diploma.&nbsp; 

With a high school diploma, more doors are open and opportunities are available to our citizens.&nbsp; 

The Salina Public Library values lifelong learning and equitable access to information.&nbsp; With the partnership with Excel Adult High School, the library can help remove barriers (such as financial &amp; technology) so everyone has the opportunity to achieve their life goals.&nbsp;

Excel Adult High School has been partnering with library systems for over 8 years.&nbsp; In 2022, over 4,500 students have graduated. This is a 100% online, accredited diploma program that offers students a flexible, independent, self-paced curriculum that prepares them for college or the workplace.&nbsp; It can be completed in 24 months or sooner with transfer credits from previous high school(s) and passing portions of the GED®, HiSET®, and TASC exams.&nbsp; 

Some of the program features include unlimited one-on-one online tutoring sessions and support from success coaches, course translation and read-aloud tools for English language learners, and 21 free college credits through the American Council on Education courses. 

The Salina Public Library would hold the role as a liaison between the student and Excel Adult High School. The library would offer the use of our Wi-Fi, Chromebooks, and private study spaces if the student should need those resources. The library also follows along as the students go through the program, monitoring their progress and ensuring they know how to access the assortment of built-in success tools this program offers.&nbsp;

This opportunity will be offered to a select number of students each year as it is scholarship based.&nbsp; Students will go through an interview process and enroll in a 30-day trial period before the scholarship is then utilized. Once they meet those requirements, the student has 2 years to complete the program.&nbsp;

“This is an incredible opportunity for our community to support residents in advancing their education and achieving their career goals,” said Allyson Ronning, head of circulation. “By offering Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School, we’re setting the stage for future workforce and economic growth. We are excited to do our part to support individuals in our community through this program.”

Interested residents can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.excelhighschool.org/library/salina" target="_blank">www.excelhighschool.org/library/salina</a>&nbsp;to learn more about&nbsp;Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634353835637.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Public LibraryEven during the best economic times, adults without a high school diploma struggle to achieve success and financial stability.&nbsp; Statistics show that 1 in 10 adults do not have a high school diploma.&nbsp; According to the US Census Bureau, 9 percent, or at least 3,100 individuals in Salina, over the age of 25 do not have a high school diploma.&nbsp; With a high school diploma, more doors are open and opportunities are available to our citizens.&nbsp; The Salina Public Library values lifelong learning and equitable access to information.&nbsp; With the partnership with Excel Adult High School, the library can help remove barriers (such as financial &amp; technology) so everyone has the opportunity to achieve their life goals.&nbsp;Excel Adult High School has been partnering with library systems for over 8 years.&nbsp; In 2022, over 4,500 students have graduated. This is a 100% online, accredited diploma program that offers students a flexible, independent, self-paced curriculum that prepares them for college or the workplace.&nbsp; It can be completed in 24 months or sooner with transfer credits from previous high school(s) and passing portions of the GED®, HiSET®, and TASC exams.&nbsp; Some of the program features include unlimited one-on-one online tutoring sessions and support from success coaches, course translation and read-aloud tools for English language learners, and 21 free college credits through the American Council on Education courses. The Salina Public Library would hold the role as a liaison between the student and Excel Adult High School. The library would offer the use of our Wi-Fi, Chromebooks, and private study spaces if the student should need those resources. The library also follows along as the students go through the program, monitoring their progress and ensuring they know how to access the assortment of built-in success tools this program offers.&nbsp;This opportunity will be offered to a select number of students each year as it is scholarship based.&nbsp; Students will go through an interview process and enroll in a 30-day trial period before the scholarship is then utilized. Once they meet those requirements, the student has 2 years to complete the program.&nbsp;“This is an incredible opportunity for our community to support residents in advancing their education and achieving their career goals,” said Allyson Ronning, head of circulation. “By offering Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School, we’re setting the stage for future workforce and economic growth. We are excited to do our part to support individuals in our community through this program.”Interested residents can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.excelhighschool.org/library/salina" target="_blank">www.excelhighschool.org/library/salina</a>&nbsp;to learn more about&nbsp;Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School.

Salina library launches free adult high school diploma program

Today is Thursday, May 4, the 124th day of 2023. There are 241 days left in the year.

On May 4, 1970, Ohio National Guardsmen opened fire during an anti-war protest at Kent State University, killing four students and wounding nine others.

In 1776, Rhode Island declared its freedom from England, two months before the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

In 1886, at Haymarket Square in Chicago, a labor demonstration for an 8-hour work day turned into a deadly riot when a bomb exploded.

In 1904, the United States took over construction of the Panama Canal from the French.

In 1932, mobster Al Capone, convicted of income-tax evasion, entered the federal penitentiary in Atlanta. (Capone was later transferred to Alcatraz Island.)

In 1942, the Battle of the Coral Sea, the first naval clash fought entirely with carrier aircraft, began in the Pacific during World War II. (The outcome was considered a tactical victory for Japan, but ultimately a strategic one for the Allies.)

In 1945, during World War II, German forces in the Netherlands, Denmark and northwest Germany agreed to surrender.

In 1961, the first group of "Freedom Riders" left Washington, D.C., to challenge racial segregation on interstate buses and in bus terminals.

In 1998, Unabomber Theodore Kaczynski was given four life sentences plus 30 years by a federal judge in Sacramento, California, under a plea agreement that spared him the death penalty.

In 2001, Bonny Lee Bakley, wife of actor Robert Blake, was shot to death as she sat in a car near a restaurant in Los Angeles. (Blake, accused of Bakley's murder, was acquitted in a criminal trial but found liable by a civil jury and ordered to pay damages.)

In 2006, a federal judge sentenced Zacarias Moussaoui to life in prison for his role in the 9/11 attacks, telling the convicted terrorist, "You will die with a whimper."

In 2011, President Barack Obama said he had decided not to release death photos of Osama bin Laden because their graphic nature could incite violence and create national security risks. Officials told The Associated Press that the Navy SEALs who'd stormed bin Laden's compound in Pakistan shot and killed him after they saw him appear to lunge for a weapon.

In 2020, New York state reported more than 1,700 previously undisclosed coronavirus deaths at nursing homes and adult care facilities. Struggling fashion brand J.Crew became the first major retailer to file for bankruptcy protection since the start of the pandemic. Former Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula died at 90; he'd won more games than any other NFL coach.

Ten years ago: National Rifle Association leaders told members during a meeting in Houston that the fight against gun control legislation was far from over, and vowed that none in the organization would ever have to surrender their weapons. A limousine taking nine women to a bachelorette party erupted in flames on the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge over San Francisco Bay, killing five of the passengers, including the bride-to-be. Orb powered to a 2 1/2-length victory on a sloppy track to win the Kentucky Derby. Floyd Mayweather came back from a year's absence to win a unanimous 12-round decision over Robert Guerrero in their welterweight title fight in Las Vegas.

Five years ago: President Donald Trump suggested that his newly-hired attorney Rudy Giuliani needed to "get his facts straight" about the hush money paid to porn actress Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election; Giuliani had earlier said that Trump knew about the payment to Daniels made by his personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, and that Trump had paid Cohen back. The Connecticut Supreme Court overturned the murder conviction of Kennedy cousin Michael Skakel in the 1975 bludgeoning death of a girl in Greenwich, finding that Skakel's trial attorney had failed to present evidence of an alibi. (The U.S. Supreme Court later left in place the Connecticut high court ruling.) Los Angeles Angels slugger Albert Pujols got his 3,000th hit, reaching the mark with a broken-bat single against the Seattle Mariners.

One year ago: Complaining that the West was "stuffing Ukraine with weapons," Russia pounded railroad stations and other supply-line points across the country, as the European Union moved to further punish Moscow for the war by proposing a ban on oil imports, a crucial source of revenue. Heavy fighting also raged at the Azovstal steel mill in Mariupol. Donald Trump Jr., oldest son of former President Donald Trump, met with the congressional committee investigating the 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol. Comedian Dave Chappelle was tackled during a performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Security guards chased and overpowered the attacker.

Today's Birthdays: Katherine Jackson, matriarch of the Jackson musical family, is 93. Jazz musician Ron Carter is 86. Pulitzer Prize-winning political commentator George Will is 82. Pop singer Peggy Santiglia Davison (The Angels) is 79. Actor Richard Jenkins is 76. Country singer Stella Parton is 74. Actor-turned-clergyman Hilly Hicks is 73. Singer Jackie Jackson (The Jacksons) is 72. Singer-actor Pia Zadora is 71. R&amp;B singer Oleta Adams is 70. Violinist Soozie Tyrell (Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band) is 66. Country singer Randy Travis is 64. Actor Mary McDonough is 62. Comedian Ana Gasteyer is 56. Actor Will Arnett is 53. Rock musician Mike Dirnt (Green Day) is 51. Contemporary Christian singer Chris Tomlin is 51. TV personality and fashion designer Kimora Lee Simmons is 48. Sports reporter Erin Andrews is 45. Singer Lance Bass ('N Sync) is 44. Actor Ruth Negga is 42. Rapper/singer Jidenna is 38. Actor Alexander Gould is 29. Country singer RaeLynn is 29. Actor Amara Miller is 23. Actor Brooklynn Prince (Film: "The Florida Project") is 13.

<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>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, May 4, the 124th day of 2023. There are 241 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 4, 1970, Ohio National Guardsmen opened fire during an anti-war protest at Kent State University, killing four students and wounding nine others.On this date:In 1776, Rhode Island declared its freedom from England, two months before the Declaration of Independence was adopted.In 1886, at Haymarket Square in Chicago, a labor demonstration for an 8-hour work day turned into a deadly riot when a bomb exploded.In 1904, the United States took over construction of the Panama Canal from the French.In 1932, mobster Al Capone, convicted of income-tax evasion, entered the federal penitentiary in Atlanta. (Capone was later transferred to Alcatraz Island.)In 1942, the Battle of the Coral Sea, the first naval clash fought entirely with carrier aircraft, began in the Pacific during World War II. (The outcome was considered a tactical victory for Japan, but ultimately a strategic one for the Allies.)In 1945, during World War II, German forces in the Netherlands, Denmark and northwest Germany agreed to surrender.In 1961, the first group of "Freedom Riders" left Washington, D.C., to challenge racial segregation on interstate buses and in bus terminals.In 1998, Unabomber Theodore Kaczynski was given four life sentences plus 30 years by a federal judge in Sacramento, California, under a plea agreement that spared him the death penalty.In 2001, Bonny Lee Bakley, wife of actor Robert Blake, was shot to death as she sat in a car near a restaurant in Los Angeles. (Blake, accused of Bakley's murder, was acquitted in a criminal trial but found liable by a civil jury and ordered to pay damages.)In 2006, a federal judge sentenced Zacarias Moussaoui to life in prison for his role in the 9/11 attacks, telling the convicted terrorist, "You will die with a whimper."In 2011, President Barack Obama said he had decided not to release death photos of Osama bin Laden because their graphic nature could incite violence and create national security risks. Officials told The Associated Press that the Navy SEALs who'd stormed bin Laden's compound in Pakistan shot and killed him after they saw him appear to lunge for a weapon.In 2020, New York state reported more than 1,700 previously undisclosed coronavirus deaths at nursing homes and adult care facilities. Struggling fashion brand J.Crew became the first major retailer to file for bankruptcy protection since the start of the pandemic. Former Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula died at 90; he'd won more games than any other NFL coach.Ten years ago: National Rifle Association leaders told members during a meeting in Houston that the fight against gun control legislation was far from over, and vowed that none in the organization would ever have to surrender their weapons. A limousine taking nine women to a bachelorette party erupted in flames on the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge over San Francisco Bay, killing five of the passengers, including the bride-to-be. Orb powered to a 2 1/2-length victory on a sloppy track to win the Kentucky Derby. Floyd Mayweather came back from a year's absence to win a unanimous 12-round decision over Robert Guerrero in their welterweight title fight in Las Vegas.Five years ago: President Donald Trump suggested that his newly-hired attorney Rudy Giuliani needed to "get his facts straight" about the hush money paid to porn actress Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election; Giuliani had earlier said that Trump knew about the payment to Daniels made by his personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, and that Trump had paid Cohen back. The Connecticut Supreme Court overturned the murder conviction of Kennedy cousin Michael Skakel in the 1975 bludgeoning death of a girl in Greenwich, finding that Skakel's trial attorney had failed to present evidence of an alibi. (The U.S. Supreme Court later left in place the Connecticut high court ruling.) Los Angeles Angels slugger Albert Pujols got his 3,000th hit, reaching the mark with a broken-bat single against the Seattle Mariners.One year ago: Complaining that the West was "stuffing Ukraine with weapons," Russia pounded railroad stations and other supply-line points across the country, as the European Union moved to further punish Moscow for the war by proposing a ban on oil imports, a crucial source of revenue. Heavy fighting also raged at the Azovstal steel mill in Mariupol. Donald Trump Jr., oldest son of former President Donald Trump, met with the congressional committee investigating the 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol. Comedian Dave Chappelle was tackled during a performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Security guards chased and overpowered the attacker.Today's Birthdays: Katherine Jackson, matriarch of the Jackson musical family, is 93. Jazz musician Ron Carter is 86. Pulitzer Prize-winning political commentator George Will is 82. Pop singer Peggy Santiglia Davison (The Angels) is 79. Actor Richard Jenkins is 76. Country singer Stella Parton is 74. Actor-turned-clergyman Hilly Hicks is 73. Singer Jackie Jackson (The Jacksons) is 72. Singer-actor Pia Zadora is 71. R&amp;B singer Oleta Adams is 70. Violinist Soozie Tyrell (Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band) is 66. Country singer Randy Travis is 64. Actor Mary McDonough is 62. Comedian Ana Gasteyer is 56. Actor Will Arnett is 53. Rock musician Mike Dirnt (Green Day) is 51. Contemporary Christian singer Chris Tomlin is 51. TV personality and fashion designer Kimora Lee Simmons is 48. Sports reporter Erin Andrews is 45. Singer Lance Bass ('N Sync) is 44. Actor Ruth Negga is 42. Rapper/singer Jidenna is 38. Actor Alexander Gould is 29. Country singer RaeLynn is 29. Actor Amara Miller is 23. Actor Brooklynn Prince (Film: "The Florida Project") is 13.

Today in History - May 4

By JIM KREIDLER FTC consumer education specialist

Say you’re struggling to pay off your credit cards — which is already difficult with high interest rates — and you hear about a company that promises to reduce or eliminate your credit card debt for a fee. Sounds great, right? But how can you tell if that offer is legitimate or a scam?

The FTC recently announced settlements with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/05/ftc-lawsuit-leads-permanent-ban-debt-relief-telemarketing-operators-debt-relief-scam">the operators of a deceptive debt relief scam</a><a></a>. The FTC sued the three operators and their related companies&nbsp;(which went by multiple names including ACRO Services)&nbsp;for&nbsp;taking tens of millions of dollars from people by falsely promising to eliminate or reduce their credit card debt. The scam charged people fees in the thousands of dollars and even told them&nbsp;to stop making payments to their credit card companies — leaving people in a far worse position — with damaged credit and owing their original debts plus thousands in fees and interest.

As part of the settlements with the FTC, these scammers are permanently banned from running any debt relief services or engaging in telemarketing, and they must turn over assets that will be used to provide any possible refunds to people affected by the scam.

Follow these steps to&nbsp;spot and avoid credit card debt relief scams.

●Don’t pay upfront.&nbsp;It’s illegal for a debt relief company to charge you a fee before they do anything to relieve your debt.

●Talk with your credit card company.&nbsp;For free.&nbsp;Call the customer service number on the back of your credit card. Ask for a payment plan that&nbsp;you’ll be able to afford.

●Consider <a href="http://r.ftc.gov/articles/how-get-out-debt">a&nbsp;reputable credit counselor</a>.&nbsp;They can help you develop a payment plan that works for you.

Spot a company making calls or claims like this? Report them at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683159908879.png" alt="Image courtesy FTC" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FTC</figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM KREIDLER FTC consumer education specialistSay you’re struggling to pay off your credit cards — which is already difficult with high interest rates — and you hear about a company that promises to reduce or eliminate your credit card debt for a fee. Sounds great, right? But how can you tell if that offer is legitimate or a scam?The FTC recently announced settlements with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/05/ftc-lawsuit-leads-permanent-ban-debt-relief-telemarketing-operators-debt-relief-scam">the operators of a deceptive debt relief scam</a><a></a>. The FTC sued the three operators and their related companies&nbsp;(which went by multiple names including ACRO Services)&nbsp;for&nbsp;taking tens of millions of dollars from people by falsely promising to eliminate or reduce their credit card debt. The scam charged people fees in the thousands of dollars and even told them&nbsp;to stop making payments to their credit card companies — leaving people in a far worse position — with damaged credit and owing their original debts plus thousands in fees and interest.As part of the settlements with the FTC, these scammers are permanently banned from running any debt relief services or engaging in telemarketing, and they must turn over assets that will be used to provide any possible refunds to people affected by the scam.Follow these steps to&nbsp;spot and avoid credit card debt relief scams.●Don’t pay upfront.&nbsp;It’s illegal for a debt relief company to charge you a fee before they do anything to relieve your debt.●Talk with your credit card company.&nbsp;For free.&nbsp;Call the customer service number on the back of your credit card. Ask for a payment plan that&nbsp;you’ll be able to afford.●Consider <a href="http://r.ftc.gov/articles/how-get-out-debt">a&nbsp;reputable credit counselor</a>.&nbsp;They can help you develop a payment plan that works for you.Spot a company making calls or claims like this? Report them at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

CONSUMER ALERT: Credit card debt relief that isn’t

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

BATON ROUGE, La. - The following people recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

Amanda Baxa of Cuba at Emporia State University

Margery Brensing of Inman at Emporia State University

They are among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa PhiBATON ROUGE, La. - The following people recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.Amanda Baxa of Cuba at Emporia State UniversityMargery Brensing of Inman at Emporia State UniversityThey are among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi inducts new members from area

Strong to severe storms are possible late Thursday afternoon through Thursday night. The greatest severe risk is expected across south-central Kansas with large hail and damaging winds possible. Locally heavy rainfall is possible across southern Kansas Thursday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683158243195.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceStrong to severe storms are possible late Thursday afternoon through Thursday night. The greatest severe risk is expected across south-central Kansas with large hail and damaging winds possible. Locally heavy rainfall is possible across southern Kansas Thursday night.

Late Thursday severe weather looks to be staying to our south

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A competition ultimately devoted to improving first responders' situational awareness in emergency situations drew nine teams to the K-State Salina campus this week.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) UAS Indoor Challenge First Responder prize competition includes university and business teams from across the country that have been developing indoor uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) that offer improved usability and situational awareness while operating with a limited or no GPS signal. An additional component was to develop such a platform that has a lower cost that would be more affordable for first responder agencies, especially those in rural areas that might not have a great deal of funding to devote to such equipment.

The challenge has been a multi-level competition that began when proposals for the UAS platforms were submitted on April 27, 2022. Throughout the various stages, the field of competition was narrowed until it got to the nine teams who have been competing Monday-Wednesday at K-State Salina for a $100,000 grand prize. The first five teams will walk away with some prize money. There also are up to six Best-in-Class monetary awards.

Terese Manley, of the NIST Communications Technology Laboratory, explained that NIST is a science standards and metrology laboratory.

"A lot of the work that we are doing is the research for helping first responders with their improved situational awareness," she said. 

Not only do NIST personnel look at first responders' network communications, such as cellular, WiFi, and broadband, but they also look at improving situational awareness with drone video and photography technology.

"We're experimenting with the drones being capable of providing the incident commander those extra eyeballs on the other side of a building or, in the case of what we're doing here today, it's more of the indoor situational awareness," Manley said. 

"So you could imagine law enforcement or FBI going to the scene of a crime, wanting to be able to not send in their own personnel for fear of loss of life. They can send in a drone to go in and see if there are any bad actors. They could go in and find people who have been injured in a search and rescue operation, or, in the case of a tornado or earthquake," she said. "In this scenario, there is a lot of debris and the building has changed. It is more of a constrained environment. So we're looking at small drones that have all these capabilities, the camera technology, thermal technology for finding people, being able to operate in low light in a non-GPS environment, and being there to help first responders have that situational awareness."

While drones became more commercially available approximately 10 years ago, drone use by first responders has only come about in the past six to seven years, Manley said.

"A lot has changed with the technology of drones since that time. And the uncrewed aircraft systems, they are using them as a tool more and more every day," she said.

The drones are a delicate balance of size/weight and technology. The drones have to be able to provide useful technology for first responders while being able to fly into small spaces and fly for extended periods of time.

"Of course, they (first responders) can't use the drone that your grandchild is getting under the Christmas tree in their operation, so we are working with teams here this week who are retrofitting or building from scratch drones that can support the mission, more ruggedized and with these additional features and capabilities," Manley said.

The drones in the competition are all under 10 pounds. 

"When you have a lightweight or small drone like that, you can only carry so much weight, so there are design tradeoffs that all of the teams have to consider. If they add an additional camera or they add an additional microphone or audio sensor, if they add more weight, then their flight time goes down, so they are constantly balancing those design tradeoffs in their engineering because they want the longest flight time," she said.

According to Manley, the mix of teams is about half university students and half small businesses. She explained that while the businesses might currently be UAS manufacturers, they may not be focused on public safety and the needs of first responders. NIST also provides an educational component for those businesses concerning the needs of first responders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683153079847.jpeg" alt="A member of one of the nine teams uses a monitor and hand controls to fly a drone during the competition Wednesday. Photos courtesy K-State Salina" />
 <figcaption>A member of one of the nine teams uses a monitor and hand controls to fly a drone during the competition Wednesday. Photos courtesy K-State Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA competition ultimately devoted to improving first responders' situational awareness in emergency situations drew nine teams to the K-State Salina campus this week.The National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) UAS Indoor Challenge First Responder prize competition includes university and business teams from across the country that have been developing indoor uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) that offer improved usability and situational awareness while operating with a limited or no GPS signal. An additional component was to develop such a platform that has a lower cost that would be more affordable for first responder agencies, especially those in rural areas that might not have a great deal of funding to devote to such equipment.The challenge has been a multi-level competition that began when proposals for the UAS platforms were submitted on April 27, 2022. Throughout the various stages, the field of competition was narrowed until it got to the nine teams who have been competing Monday-Wednesday at K-State Salina for a $100,000 grand prize. The first five teams will walk away with some prize money. There also are up to six Best-in-Class monetary awards.Terese Manley, of the NIST Communications Technology Laboratory, explained that NIST is a science standards and metrology laboratory."A lot of the work that we are doing is the research for helping first responders with their improved situational awareness," she said. Not only do NIST personnel look at first responders' network communications, such as cellular, WiFi, and broadband, but they also look at improving situational awareness with drone video and photography technology."We're experimenting with the drones being capable of providing the incident commander those extra eyeballs on the other side of a building or, in the case of what we're doing here today, it's more of the indoor situational awareness," Manley said. "So you could imagine law enforcement or FBI going to the scene of a crime, wanting to be able to not send in their own personnel for fear of loss of life. They can send in a drone to go in and see if there are any bad actors. They could go in and find people who have been injured in a search and rescue operation, or, in the case of a tornado or earthquake," she said. "In this scenario, there is a lot of debris and the building has changed. It is more of a constrained environment. So we're looking at small drones that have all these capabilities, the camera technology, thermal technology for finding people, being able to operate in low light in a non-GPS environment, and being there to help first responders have that situational awareness."While drones became more commercially available approximately 10 years ago, drone use by first responders has only come about in the past six to seven years, Manley said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683153299496.jpeg" alt="A team member flies a drone (right center) during the competition Wednesday." />
 <figcaption>A team member flies a drone (right center) during the competition Wednesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>"A lot has changed with the technology of drones since that time. And the uncrewed aircraft systems, they are using them as a tool more and more every day," she said.The drones are a delicate balance of size/weight and technology. The drones have to be able to provide useful technology for first responders while being able to fly into small spaces and fly for extended periods of time."Of course, they (first responders) can't use the drone that your grandchild is getting under the Christmas tree in their operation, so we are working with teams here this week who are retrofitting or building from scratch drones that can support the mission, more ruggedized and with these additional features and capabilities," Manley said.The drones in the competition are all under 10 pounds. "When you have a lightweight or small drone like that, you can only carry so much weight, so there are design tradeoffs that all of the teams have to consider. If they add an additional camera or they add an additional microphone or audio sensor, if they add more weight, then their flight time goes down, so they are constantly balancing those design tradeoffs in their engineering because they want the longest flight time," she said.According to Manley, the mix of teams is about half university students and half small businesses. She explained that while the businesses might currently be UAS manufacturers, they may not be focused on public safety and the needs of first responders. NIST also provides an educational component for those businesses concerning the needs of first responders.

First responders' needs focus of national UAS competition at K-State Salina

The free splash pads are scheduled to open Thursday. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaParksAndRecreation">Salina Parks and Recreation Facebook page</a>:

The free splash pads are scheduled to open Thursday. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaParksAndRecreation">Salina Parks and Recreation Facebook page</a>:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683139222560.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaParksAndRecreation">Salina Parks and Recreation Facebook page</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaParksAndRecreation">Salina Parks and Recreation Facebook page</a></figcaption>
 </figure>

Salina parks splash pads set to open Thursday

By GARY DEMUTH Salina Symphony

Cold Mountain began as a National Book Award-winning novel that was turned into an Oscar-winning movie and then an opera and suite by one of the leading female composers in contemporary classical music.

The 1997 novel by Charles Frazier tells the story of a wounded Civil War soldier who travels against great odds across the countryside to reunite with his one true love. The novel was turned into a popular movie starring Jude Law, Nicole Kidman, and Renee Zellweger.

Inspired by the dramatic passion of Frazier’s novel, composer Jennifer Higdon wrote a critically acclaimed opera, which she subsequently adapted into a musical suite highlighting the intense emotional landscapes of love, war and passion as the soldier embarks on a difficult spiritual odyssey to Cold Mountain.

Higdon’s Cold Mountain Suite will open the Salina Symphony’s season finale concert, Passion, a celebration of powerful female voices in classical music. The concert will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday in the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Higdon is one of the most acclaimed composers in contemporary classical music. She received the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in Music for her Violin Concerto, a 2010 Grammy award for her Percussion Concerto, a 2018 Grammy for her Viola Concerto, and a 2020 Grammy for her Harp Concerto.

Yaniv Segal, conductor and music director of the Salina Symphony, said Higdon shouldn’t be defined as a female composer but as a great classical composer whatever her gender.

“Jennifer is one of the leading composers of her generation,” he said. “She has a real gift. She creates very beautiful melodies, but ones that take unexpected turns. She’s a brilliant orchestrator that makes an orchestra shimmer.”

In addition to Higdon’s suite, the Salina Symphony will perform selections from Bizet’s Carmen, Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade, and Meditation from Thais by Jules Massenet.

“Through these pieces, you get to know these powerful women who have powerful stories, who have made their mark on history,” Segal said.

Salina Symphony concertmaster and violinist Denise Blehm will be the featured soloist for the season finale. A Salina native, Blehm has been a member of the Salina Symphony for more than 25 years and concertmaster for the last 20 seasons.

Blehm will be performing violin solos during Meditation from Thais and Scheherazade.

Massenet’s Meditation from Thais is taken from the instrumental entr’acte between the first and second acts of the French composer’s opera, Thais, and has been a showcase for violinists throughout its history.

“The melody is a well-known violin solo,” Segal said. “A beautiful piece that will feature Denise on violin.”

While thinking of other powerful women in music to include in the concert, Segal turned to perhaps the two most famous female characters in opera: Carmen and Scheherazade.

The character of Carmen is one of the most memorable women in opera with her contempt for social conventions, overt sexual behavior and violent death, all set to timeless music by Bizet, which was adapted in 1880 into two arrangements of orchestral suites by Bizet’s friend Ernest Guiraud using music from the opera.

The Symphony will perform Suite No. 1, which opens with the Act I prelude and moves into an instrumental interlude showcasing Spanish idioms, rhythms and evocative melodies.

“It’s a great portrayal of an empowered woman who felt free to do what she wanted to do and ends up being murdered by her jealous lover,” Segal said.

According to legend, Scheherazade’s stories were invented to prevent her execution at the hands of her brutal husband. These stories were spun over 1,001 nights and were a blend of poems, folk songs and fairy tales. She eventually had her death sentence commuted because the power of her stories captured the imagination of all who listened to them.

Rimsky-Korsakov capitalized on the fame of this immortal story when he featured the legendary storyteller and her tales in a musical composition that included a solo violin that opens the first two movements.

“The character of Scheherazade is represented by the violin, which is a huge solo for our concertmaster,” he said.

Blehm said “Scheherazade” is an incredible piece for a violinist.

“The violin is the voice of Scheherazade, and you can feel the tension mounting in it,” she said. “But it also has an incredible solo for Dena Berquist, our principal cellist, and also for the flute and clarinet.”

Blehm said she has been grateful for Segal’s encouragement and guidance while rehearsing the piece.

“He’s an exceptional musician and conductor and knows how to get the most out of his musicians, but he does it in such a kind manner,” she said. “He’s also a violinist, so it’s been a treat to learn from him.”

Reflecting on his first season as Salina Symphony music director and conductor, Segal said he has been “really pleased with the positive reception and interest in arts and culture I’ve found in (Salina).”

“As I put together diverse and adventurous programs, I feel I have the support of the community, the orchestra and the (Symphony) board,” he said. “I’m pleased how the orchestra is starting to understand the things I’m asking for and are continuing to grow.”

As he plans his second season, Segal realizes he has a first year of great expectations to live up to.

“There’s not enough time to present all the things I’d love to do here,” he said. “But I can promise that next year will be very exciting, with incredible soloists.”

Tickets for the Salina Symphony’s Passion concert are $29 and $39 for adults or $19 for students aged 5 to college senior. Tickets may be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre box office, by calling 785-827-1998 or online at <a href="http://www.salinasymphony.org">www.salinasymphony.org</a>.

Segal will host a pre-concert talk at 3 p.m. in the Stiefel Theatre’s Watson Room. Those attending are asked to enter through the main theatre doors, which open at 2:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681562112720.jpeg" alt="Salina Symphony Concertmaster Denise Blehm will be the featured soloist for the symphony's final concert of the season.&nbsp;Photo courtesy Salina Symphony&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Salina Symphony Concertmaster Denise Blehm will be the featured soloist for the symphony's final concert of the season.&nbsp;Photo courtesy Salina Symphony&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GARY DEMUTH Salina SymphonyCold Mountain began as a National Book Award-winning novel that was turned into an Oscar-winning movie and then an opera and suite by one of the leading female composers in contemporary classical music.The 1997 novel by Charles Frazier tells the story of a wounded Civil War soldier who travels against great odds across the countryside to reunite with his one true love. The novel was turned into a popular movie starring Jude Law, Nicole Kidman, and Renee Zellweger.Inspired by the dramatic passion of Frazier’s novel, composer Jennifer Higdon wrote a critically acclaimed opera, which she subsequently adapted into a musical suite highlighting the intense emotional landscapes of love, war and passion as the soldier embarks on a difficult spiritual odyssey to Cold Mountain.Higdon’s Cold Mountain Suite will open the Salina Symphony’s season finale concert, Passion, a celebration of powerful female voices in classical music. The concert will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday in the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Higdon is one of the most acclaimed composers in contemporary classical music. She received the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in Music for her Violin Concerto, a 2010 Grammy award for her Percussion Concerto, a 2018 Grammy for her Viola Concerto, and a 2020 Grammy for her Harp Concerto.Yaniv Segal, conductor and music director of the Salina Symphony, said Higdon shouldn’t be defined as a female composer but as a great classical composer whatever her gender.“Jennifer is one of the leading composers of her generation,” he said. “She has a real gift. She creates very beautiful melodies, but ones that take unexpected turns. She’s a brilliant orchestrator that makes an orchestra shimmer.”Featured soloistIn addition to Higdon’s suite, the Salina Symphony will perform selections from Bizet’s Carmen, Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade, and Meditation from Thais by Jules Massenet.“Through these pieces, you get to know these powerful women who have powerful stories, who have made their mark on history,” Segal said.Salina Symphony concertmaster and violinist Denise Blehm will be the featured soloist for the season finale. A Salina native, Blehm has been a member of the Salina Symphony for more than 25 years and concertmaster for the last 20 seasons.Blehm will be performing violin solos during Meditation from Thais and Scheherazade.Massenet’s Meditation from Thais is taken from the instrumental entr’acte between the first and second acts of the French composer’s opera, Thais, and has been a showcase for violinists throughout its history.“The melody is a well-known violin solo,” Segal said. “A beautiful piece that will feature Denise on violin.”Powerful womenWhile thinking of other powerful women in music to include in the concert, Segal turned to perhaps the two most famous female characters in opera: Carmen and Scheherazade.The character of Carmen is one of the most memorable women in opera with her contempt for social conventions, overt sexual behavior and violent death, all set to timeless music by Bizet, which was adapted in 1880 into two arrangements of orchestral suites by Bizet’s friend Ernest Guiraud using music from the opera.The Symphony will perform Suite No. 1, which opens with the Act I prelude and moves into an instrumental interlude showcasing Spanish idioms, rhythms and evocative melodies.“It’s a great portrayal of an empowered woman who felt free to do what she wanted to do and ends up being murdered by her jealous lover,” Segal said.According to legend, Scheherazade’s stories were invented to prevent her execution at the hands of her brutal husband. These stories were spun over 1,001 nights and were a blend of poems, folk songs and fairy tales. She eventually had her death sentence commuted because the power of her stories captured the imagination of all who listened to them.Rimsky-Korsakov capitalized on the fame of this immortal story when he featured the legendary storyteller and her tales in a musical composition that included a solo violin that opens the first two movements.“The character of Scheherazade is represented by the violin, which is a huge solo for our concertmaster,” he said.Blehm said “Scheherazade” is an incredible piece for a violinist.“The violin is the voice of Scheherazade, and you can feel the tension mounting in it,” she said. “But it also has an incredible solo for Dena Berquist, our principal cellist, and also for the flute and clarinet.”Blehm said she has been grateful for Segal’s encouragement and guidance while rehearsing the piece.“He’s an exceptional musician and conductor and knows how to get the most out of his musicians, but he does it in such a kind manner,” she said. “He’s also a violinist, so it’s been a treat to learn from him.”Great expectationsReflecting on his first season as Salina Symphony music director and conductor, Segal said he has been “really pleased with the positive reception and interest in arts and culture I’ve found in (Salina).”“As I put together diverse and adventurous programs, I feel I have the support of the community, the orchestra and the (Symphony) board,” he said. “I’m pleased how the orchestra is starting to understand the things I’m asking for and are continuing to grow.”As he plans his second season, Segal realizes he has a first year of great expectations to live up to.“There’s not enough time to present all the things I’d love to do here,” he said. “But I can promise that next year will be very exciting, with incredible soloists.”Tickets for the Salina Symphony’s Passion concert are $29 and $39 for adults or $19 for students aged 5 to college senior. Tickets may be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre box office, by calling 785-827-1998 or online at <a href="http://www.salinasymphony.org">www.salinasymphony.org</a>.Segal will host a pre-concert talk at 3 p.m. in the Stiefel Theatre’s Watson Room. Those attending are asked to enter through the main theatre doors, which open at 2:30 p.m.

Salina Symphony season ends Sunday with 'Passion' concert

Salina Animal Services is running an adoption special through Saturday.

According to a post on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaAnimalShelter">Facebook page</a> Tuesday afternoon, Salina Animal Services is at maximum capacity for dogs.

Through 2 p.m. Saturday, all dogs adopted will be $50 each. 

"Please think about adding a forever friend to your family today," the Facebook post noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584572544288.jpeg" alt="Salina Animal Services. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Salina Animal Services. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Animal Services is running an adoption special through Saturday.According to a post on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaAnimalShelter">Facebook page</a> Tuesday afternoon, Salina Animal Services is at maximum capacity for dogs.Through 2 p.m. Saturday, all dogs adopted will be $50 each. "Please think about adding a forever friend to your family today," the Facebook post noted.

Salina Animal Services at capacity for dogs; adoption fee set at $50

At least one of the shots fired Tuesday night near an east Salina apartment complex is believed to have damaged a residence slightly less than a mile away.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were sent to the Heather Ridge Apartments, 2130 E. Crawford Street, for the report of shots fired.

Witnesses reported seeing a man fire four rounds, possibly from a handgun. Additionally, witnesses told police that they saw two men. One ran north and the other south after the shots were fired.

Police were able to locate two .40 caliber shell casings in the area, Forrester said.

At about the same time as the reported shots fired incident, an officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Moundview Avenue for the report of a window being shot, Forrester said. A 76-year-old Salina man told police that he and his wife were in their bedroom when they heard a noise. They found a hole in a window and window blinds on the back side of the house, and a projectile under the dining room table.

Forrester said that based on the trajectory that the projectile hit the window, it is believed that one of the bullets fired near the Heather Ridge Apartments traveled approximately 1,400 meters (slightly less than a mile) down the hill, striking the window on the house in the 700 block of Moundview Avenue. The rear of the house faces east.

Damage to the house on Moundview Avenue was estimated at $1,000, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostAt least one of the shots fired Tuesday night near an east Salina apartment complex is believed to have damaged a residence slightly less than a mile away.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were sent to the Heather Ridge Apartments, 2130 E. Crawford Street, for the report of shots fired.Witnesses reported seeing a man fire four rounds, possibly from a handgun. Additionally, witnesses told police that they saw two men. One ran north and the other south after the shots were fired.Police were able to locate two .40 caliber shell casings in the area, Forrester said.At about the same time as the reported shots fired incident, an officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Moundview Avenue for the report of a window being shot, Forrester said. A 76-year-old Salina man told police that he and his wife were in their bedroom when they heard a noise. They found a hole in a window and window blinds on the back side of the house, and a projectile under the dining room table.Forrester said that based on the trajectory that the projectile hit the window, it is believed that one of the bullets fired near the Heather Ridge Apartments traveled approximately 1,400 meters (slightly less than a mile) down the hill, striking the window on the house in the 700 block of Moundview Avenue. The rear of the house faces east.Damage to the house on Moundview Avenue was estimated at $1,000, Forrester said.

Shot fired in E. Salina believed to travel nearly a mile, striking house

Police are looking for a man on a bicycle who allegedly whacked a car multiple times with a tree branch, causing thousands of dollars of damage early Tuesday afternoon in northwest Salina.

A 60-year-old Salina woman told police that she was driving southbound in the 100 block of N. College Avenue, near the intersection of N. College Avenue and W. Ash Street when an unknown man riding a bicycle struck the windshield of her 2014 Chrysler 300 with a large stick, breaking the glass, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

When the woman pulled over, the man began striking other parts of the car with what was believed to be a five-foot tree branch.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Total damage to the car, based on an auto repair shop estimate, was just under $4,500, Forrester said.

The man was described as having long, braided brown hair and was wearing a white t-shirt. He was riding a medium-sized bicycle.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for a man on a bicycle who allegedly whacked a car multiple times with a tree branch, causing thousands of dollars of damage early Tuesday afternoon in northwest Salina.A 60-year-old Salina woman told police that she was driving southbound in the 100 block of N. College Avenue, near the intersection of N. College Avenue and W. Ash Street when an unknown man riding a bicycle struck the windshield of her 2014 Chrysler 300 with a large stick, breaking the glass, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.When the woman pulled over, the man began striking other parts of the car with what was believed to be a five-foot tree branch.The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.Total damage to the car, based on an auto repair shop estimate, was just under $4,500, Forrester said.The man was described as having long, braided brown hair and was wearing a white t-shirt. He was riding a medium-sized bicycle.

Man on bicycle allegedly whacks car with 5-foot tree branch

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher &nbsp; Last week included one of the highlights of my year. The Pottawatomie County Farm Bureau hosted its Day on the Farm for most of the fourth graders in the county. It was even more special because it was the first time we had hosted the event in three years. I look forward to this every year, and it was so good to get back in the swing of it this year. It is the only Day on the Farm I have participated in, but I know many other counties host similar events or try to reach students in some form. Education has always been one of the cornerstones of Kansas Farm Bureau, and it is one of the most important things we do. We all know that those of us in agriculture are an ever-decreasing number and consumers are increasingly more separated from a close knowledge of what we do. I consider Pottawatomie County to be close to agriculture, but I am always surprised at how little the students really know about what we do. This year I hosted a station where we talked about sheep. The students were excited and eager to learn about how sheep are raised. I led them through a typical year starting with when the sheep are born and going through when they are harvested. I explained how we care for their every need. We talked about meat and wool. The students were enthralled, and I even had parents who a few questions, proving that you are never too old to learn. Of course, having three lambs to pet and look at did not hurt anything and, if I am honest, were the highlight of the station. I had also asked my friend Laney, a 4-Her and FFA member, to talk about her sheep (the three lambs were hers). It was good for the kids to see that someone closer to their age was also connected to agriculture. I hope the fourth graders got a sense of what we do in agriculture from the day. All facets of farming and ranching were covered by people who make it their livelihoods by growing food. From livestock to grains, conservation to agri-business with a little farm safety thrown in for good measure. No pun intended, but the seed of knowledge about agriculture was planted and maybe someday something they learned yesterday will be remembered. I must also come clean; I also get as much out of the day as the kids do. It reminds me of why I chose to go out every morning and do what I do. I love talking about the animals and crops that I raise, and it is truly a joy to share that with an eager audience. If you ever have a chance to help with an ag education event, I strongly encourage you to participate. I promise it will be worth every second.

&nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher &nbsp; Last week included one of the highlights of my year. The Pottawatomie County Farm Bureau hosted its Day on the Farm for most of the fourth graders in the county. It was even more special because it was the first time we had hosted the event in three years. I look forward to this every year, and it was so good to get back in the swing of it this year. It is the only Day on the Farm I have participated in, but I know many other counties host similar events or try to reach students in some form. Education has always been one of the cornerstones of Kansas Farm Bureau, and it is one of the most important things we do. We all know that those of us in agriculture are an ever-decreasing number and consumers are increasingly more separated from a close knowledge of what we do. I consider Pottawatomie County to be close to agriculture, but I am always surprised at how little the students really know about what we do. This year I hosted a station where we talked about sheep. The students were excited and eager to learn about how sheep are raised. I led them through a typical year starting with when the sheep are born and going through when they are harvested. I explained how we care for their every need. We talked about meat and wool. The students were enthralled, and I even had parents who a few questions, proving that you are never too old to learn. Of course, having three lambs to pet and look at did not hurt anything and, if I am honest, were the highlight of the station. I had also asked my friend Laney, a 4-Her and FFA member, to talk about her sheep (the three lambs were hers). It was good for the kids to see that someone closer to their age was also connected to agriculture. I hope the fourth graders got a sense of what we do in agriculture from the day. All facets of farming and ranching were covered by people who make it their livelihoods by growing food. From livestock to grains, conservation to agri-business with a little farm safety thrown in for good measure. No pun intended, but the seed of knowledge about agriculture was planted and maybe someday something they learned yesterday will be remembered. I must also come clean; I also get as much out of the day as the kids do. It reminds me of why I chose to go out every morning and do what I do. I love talking about the animals and crops that I raise, and it is truly a joy to share that with an eager audience. If you ever have a chance to help with an ag education event, I strongly encourage you to participate. I promise it will be worth every second. &nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Sowing seeds of knowledge

Today is Wednesday, May 3, the 123rd day of 2023. There are 242 days left in the year.

On May 3, 1979, Conservative Party leader Margaret Thatcher was chosen to become Britain's first female prime minister as the Tories ousted the incumbent Labour government in parliamentary elections.

In 1802, Washington, D.C., was incorporated as a city.

In 1937, Margaret Mitchell won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel, "Gone with the Wind."

In 1947, Japan's postwar constitution took effect.

In 1948, the Supreme Court, in Shelley v. Kraemer, ruled that covenants prohibiting the sale of real estate to Blacks or members of other racial groups were legally unenforceable.

In 1960, the Harvey Schmidt-Tom Jones musical "The Fantasticks" began a nearly 42-year run at New York's Sullivan Street Playhouse.

In 1987, The Miami Herald said its reporters had observed a young woman spending "Friday night and most of Saturday" at a Washington townhouse belonging to Democratic presidential candidate Gary Hart. (The woman was later identified as Donna Rice; the resulting controversy torpedoed Hart's presidential bid.)

In 2006, a federal jury in Alexandria, Virginia, rejected the death penalty for al-Qaida conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui, deciding he should spend life in prison for his role in 9/11; as he was led from the courtroom, Moussaoui taunted, "America, you lost."

In 2009, Mexican President Felipe Calderon told state television that a nationwide shutdown and an aggressive informational campaign appeared to have helped curtail an outbreak of swine flu in Mexico.

In 2011, Chicago's Derrick Rose became at age 22 the NBA's youngest MVP.

In 2015, two gunmen were shot and killed by a police officer in Garland, Texas, after they opened fire outside a purposely provocative contest for cartoon depictions of the Prophet Muhammad.

In 2016, in a stunning triumph for a political outsider, Donald Trump all but clinched the Republican presidential nomination with a resounding victory in Indiana that knocked rival Ted Cruz out of the race.

In 2018, a federal grand jury in Detroit indicted former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn on charges stemming from the company's diesel emissions cheating scandal. (Under Germany's constitution, he could not be extradited to the U.S. to face charges.)

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama cast Mexico as a nation ready to take "its rightful place in the world" and move past the drug battles and violence that had defined its relationship with the United States; the president then headed to Costa Rica, where he told a press conference he didn't foresee any circumstance requiring the U.S. to send ground troops into Syria. Gunmen killed Chaudhry Zulfikar, Pakistan's lead prosecutor investigating the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, as he drove to court in the capital.

Five years ago: President Donald Trump insisted that his reimbursement of a 2016 hush payment to porn actress Stormy Daniels had nothing to do with his election campaign. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed a plan to give striking teachers pay raises totaling 20 percent, ending a six-day walkout. In a reversal, House Speaker Paul Ryan announced that the chaplain of the House of Representatives would stay in his job; Ryan had sparked an uproar when he asked the Rev. Patrick Conroy to resign and said he was dissatisfied with Conroy's pastoral care to lawmakers.

One year ago: President Joe Biden blasted as "radical" a leaked Supreme Court draft opinion throwing out the Roe v. Wade abortion rights ruling after 50 years. Chief Justice John Roberts said he had ordered an investigation into what he called an "egregious breach of trust." Russian forces began storming the steel mill containing the last pocket of resistance in Mariupol, just as scores of civilians who evacuated the bombed-out plant reached relative safety in Ukrainian-held territory. Ron Galella, a photographer known for his visceral celebrity shots and his dogged pursuit of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who sued him and won a restraining order, died at age 91.

Today's Birthdays: Singer Frankie Valli is 89. Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, is 80. Sports announcer Greg Gumbel is 77. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., is 74. Pop singer Mary Hopkin is 73. Singer Christopher Cross is 72. Rock musician David Ball (Soft Cell) is 64. Country singer Shane Minor is 55. Actor Amy Ryan is 55. Actor Bobby Cannavale is 53. Music and film producer-actor Damon Dash is 52. Country musician John Driskell Hopkins (Zac Brown Band) is 52. Country-rock musician John Neff is 52. Actor Marsha Stephanie-Blake is 48. TV personality Willie Geist (TV: "Today") is 48. Actor Christina Hendricks is 48. Actor Dule Hill is 48. Country singer Eric Church is 46. Actor Tanya Wright is 45. Dancer Cheryl Burke is 39. Soul singer Michael Kiwanuka is 36. Actor Zoe De Grand Maison is 28. Rapper Desiigner is 26.

<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>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Wednesday, May 3, the 123rd day of 2023. There are 242 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 3, 1979, Conservative Party leader Margaret Thatcher was chosen to become Britain's first female prime minister as the Tories ousted the incumbent Labour government in parliamentary elections.On this date:In 1802, Washington, D.C., was incorporated as a city.In 1937, Margaret Mitchell won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel, "Gone with the Wind."In 1947, Japan's postwar constitution took effect.In 1948, the Supreme Court, in Shelley v. Kraemer, ruled that covenants prohibiting the sale of real estate to Blacks or members of other racial groups were legally unenforceable.In 1960, the Harvey Schmidt-Tom Jones musical "The Fantasticks" began a nearly 42-year run at New York's Sullivan Street Playhouse.In 1987, The Miami Herald said its reporters had observed a young woman spending "Friday night and most of Saturday" at a Washington townhouse belonging to Democratic presidential candidate Gary Hart. (The woman was later identified as Donna Rice; the resulting controversy torpedoed Hart's presidential bid.)In 2006, a federal jury in Alexandria, Virginia, rejected the death penalty for al-Qaida conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui, deciding he should spend life in prison for his role in 9/11; as he was led from the courtroom, Moussaoui taunted, "America, you lost."In 2009, Mexican President Felipe Calderon told state television that a nationwide shutdown and an aggressive informational campaign appeared to have helped curtail an outbreak of swine flu in Mexico.In 2011, Chicago's Derrick Rose became at age 22 the NBA's youngest MVP.In 2015, two gunmen were shot and killed by a police officer in Garland, Texas, after they opened fire outside a purposely provocative contest for cartoon depictions of the Prophet Muhammad.In 2016, in a stunning triumph for a political outsider, Donald Trump all but clinched the Republican presidential nomination with a resounding victory in Indiana that knocked rival Ted Cruz out of the race.In 2018, a federal grand jury in Detroit indicted former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn on charges stemming from the company's diesel emissions cheating scandal. (Under Germany's constitution, he could not be extradited to the U.S. to face charges.)Ten years ago: President Barack Obama cast Mexico as a nation ready to take "its rightful place in the world" and move past the drug battles and violence that had defined its relationship with the United States; the president then headed to Costa Rica, where he told a press conference he didn't foresee any circumstance requiring the U.S. to send ground troops into Syria. Gunmen killed Chaudhry Zulfikar, Pakistan's lead prosecutor investigating the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, as he drove to court in the capital.Five years ago: President Donald Trump insisted that his reimbursement of a 2016 hush payment to porn actress Stormy Daniels had nothing to do with his election campaign. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed a plan to give striking teachers pay raises totaling 20 percent, ending a six-day walkout. In a reversal, House Speaker Paul Ryan announced that the chaplain of the House of Representatives would stay in his job; Ryan had sparked an uproar when he asked the Rev. Patrick Conroy to resign and said he was dissatisfied with Conroy's pastoral care to lawmakers.One year ago: President Joe Biden blasted as "radical" a leaked Supreme Court draft opinion throwing out the Roe v. Wade abortion rights ruling after 50 years. Chief Justice John Roberts said he had ordered an investigation into what he called an "egregious breach of trust." Russian forces began storming the steel mill containing the last pocket of resistance in Mariupol, just as scores of civilians who evacuated the bombed-out plant reached relative safety in Ukrainian-held territory. Ron Galella, a photographer known for his visceral celebrity shots and his dogged pursuit of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who sued him and won a restraining order, died at age 91.Today's Birthdays: Singer Frankie Valli is 89. Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, is 80. Sports announcer Greg Gumbel is 77. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., is 74. Pop singer Mary Hopkin is 73. Singer Christopher Cross is 72. Rock musician David Ball (Soft Cell) is 64. Country singer Shane Minor is 55. Actor Amy Ryan is 55. Actor Bobby Cannavale is 53. Music and film producer-actor Damon Dash is 52. Country musician John Driskell Hopkins (Zac Brown Band) is 52. Country-rock musician John Neff is 52. Actor Marsha Stephanie-Blake is 48. TV personality Willie Geist (TV: "Today") is 48. Actor Christina Hendricks is 48. Actor Dule Hill is 48. Country singer Eric Church is 46. Actor Tanya Wright is 45. Dancer Cheryl Burke is 39. Soul singer Michael Kiwanuka is 36. Actor Zoe De Grand Maison is 28. Rapper Desiigner is 26.

Today in History - May 3

"I was told during my interview that this would be the best job of my career," Heather Greene reflects on her 2006 job interview with Heather Smith, Wendy Moshier, and Heather Ferrell.

The Salina Art Center Board of Trustees accepted Heather Greene's resignation when she announced her intention to retire effective May 28. The Art Center invites the public to celebrate Greene on May 18 at 4:30 p.m. at the Art Center Cinema, 150 S Santa Fe. Cake and well wishes begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by a special free screening of one of Heather's favorite films, "Best in Show (2000)," at 6 p.m.&nbsp;

Greene has always been committed to a robust and financially healthy Art Center – but her passion has been the Cinema. 

"My favorite part is the Cinema," said Greene. "Watching films I'd never see at a mainstream theater is unique to central Kansas because of the Art Center Cinema."&nbsp;

"Her retirement will leave a hole in our hearts and our organization. It is rare to find someone who believes in our mission and always goes above and beyond to ensure we reach our goals. She is a wonderful teammate and a great friend and has been a resource to me from my first day at the Art Center," Misty Serene, executive director, "She will be greatly missed."

Greene began taking an interest in the Art Center by attending events and enrolling her daughter, Hannah, in classes in 1994. However, she quickly developed a love for the Cinema. When the opportunity to join the Art Center team as an office manager and bookkeeper presented itself, she was excited to take on the challenge.&nbsp;

"My job has never been boring. This is a fast, ever-changing organization. There is something new going on every month. I've loved meeting and engaging with artists, particularly the early residencies we had. I know it is the people I will miss the most – staff, board, and cinema patrons."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683070487434.jpeg" alt="Heather Greene with Jerzee Mullins at the Salina Art Center Gala 2023. Photo courtesy Salina Art Center" />
 <figcaption>Heather Greene with Jerzee Mullins at the Salina Art Center Gala 2023. Photo courtesy Salina Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Art Center"I was told during my interview that this would be the best job of my career," Heather Greene reflects on her 2006 job interview with Heather Smith, Wendy Moshier, and Heather Ferrell. The Salina Art Center Board of Trustees accepted Heather Greene's resignation when she announced her intention to retire effective May 28. The Art Center invites the public to celebrate Greene on May 18 at 4:30 p.m. at the Art Center Cinema, 150 S Santa Fe. Cake and well wishes begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by a special free screening of one of Heather's favorite films, "Best in Show (2000)," at 6 p.m.&nbsp; Greene has always been committed to a robust and financially healthy Art Center – but her passion has been the Cinema. "My favorite part is the Cinema," said Greene. "Watching films I'd never see at a mainstream theater is unique to central Kansas because of the Art Center Cinema."&nbsp; "Her retirement will leave a hole in our hearts and our organization. It is rare to find someone who believes in our mission and always goes above and beyond to ensure we reach our goals. She is a wonderful teammate and a great friend and has been a resource to me from my first day at the Art Center," Misty Serene, executive director, "She will be greatly missed." Greene began taking an interest in the Art Center by attending events and enrolling her daughter, Hannah, in classes in 1994. However, she quickly developed a love for the Cinema. When the opportunity to join the Art Center team as an office manager and bookkeeper presented itself, she was excited to take on the challenge.&nbsp; "My job has never been boring. This is a fast, ever-changing organization. There is something new going on every month. I've loved meeting and engaging with artists, particularly the early residencies we had. I know it is the people I will miss the most – staff, board, and cinema patrons."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heather Greene to retire from Salina Art Center

Showers and thunderstorms will become likely across central and eastern Kansas from Thursday afternoon into Thursday night. Strong to severe storms will be possible and some with locally heavy rainfall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683069779937.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceShowers and thunderstorms will become likely across central and eastern Kansas from Thursday afternoon into Thursday night. Strong to severe storms will be possible and some with locally heavy rainfall.