By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly believes in being fiscally responsible, and she believes that her Axing Your Taxes package will be fiscally responsible while saving Kansans approximately $500 million over the next three years.

Kelly discussed her Axing Your Taxes package during an exclusive interview with Salina Post on Tuesday afternoon.

The governor announced on Jan. 19 that the package, comprised of three parts, had been introduced in the Kansas House and Senate.

Kelly told Salina Post that the package builds off of last year's bipartisan legislation that she signed to gradually eliminate over three years the 6.5 percent state sales tax on groceries.

"One of the three things my bill does is eliminate the state portion of the food sales tax completely and immediately," Kelly said. "The money is in the budget. The revenue would be coming in to cover that for as far out as we can see, so there's absolutely no reason to not do that."

If that part of the package is passed, the state sales tax would immediately be eliminated on groceries, diapers, and feminine hygiene products.

The second component of Kelly's proposed legislation would create in August a four-day sales tax holiday on school supplies, personal computers, instructional materials, and art supplies.

"That will help not only our parents and teachers, but I think it will also help our businesses, particularly those on the borders of states that have that sales tax holiday," she said.

The third component would benefit retirees who might be taxed on their Social Security income. Currently, Kansans earning less than $75,000 annually do not pay state income tax on social security income. Under Kelly's proposal, no Kansas retiree making under $100,000 would pay full taxes on Social Security income.

"That would help a lot of our senior citizens," Kelly said. "It would help put more money back in their pockets."

Kelly said that her administration is estimating a $500 million in savings for Kansans from the three components combined.

Should the tax cut package be approved, no state services will need to be cut to make up for the estimated $500 million in tax savings, Kelly said.

"I am a true fiscal conservative. I don't like to spend money I don't have. I won't spend money I don't have," she said. "So you can trust that we've looked at this every which way from Sunday. We won't touch our schools. We won't touch our transportation program. All of those will remain intact with these tax cuts in place."

Kelly said she was not proposing any additional relief measures at this point.

"We thought this was a fiscally responsible approach to take for providing relief," she said.

Kelly did say, however, that as her administration is putting together its budget proposal for next year, "we will look at the numbers and see if that allows us to do some more."

On Jan. 10, Kelly signed an executive order to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. Kelly said the executive order will give her administration a year to study the current early childhood services that are being provided by the state.

"We have a slew of different entities that are providing some sort of service to early childhood. We want to study all of that. We'll likely be working with the Hunt Institute out of North Carolina. They are experts in this area," she said.

Once the study is complete, recommendations will be made for realigning early childhood services, including the possible creation of a cabinet-level agency.

"That agency would focus entirely on the range of services for early childhood to ensure that we have more consistency, more continuity, less overlap, with fewer gaps" to make better use of resources for early childhood, including childcare, Kelly said. 

"If you listened to the State of the State, you know that we have a lot of plans for the second term, including building on many of the things that we started in the first term. That would include things like broadband expansion. We are being focused like a laser ensuring that as many homes and hospitals, schools, and businesses as want are connected to high-speed internet. That will continue to be a major focus of our administration," Kelly said.

Affordable housing, which Kelly noted was an important issue for the Salina area, also will continue to be a focus of her administration.

"We've been working with your local folks to ensure that you have plenty of housing available for all the jobs that are being created in your area," she said.

"And then all of that flows into our effort to build our workforce. We have been very successful in bringing businesses and bringing jobs to Kansas. We need to ensure that they have the people they need," she added.

On Sept. 1, Kelly placed the first legal sports wager in Kansas when she bet $15 on the Kansas City Chiefs to win Super Bowl LVII. The amount was no coincidence as 15 also happens to be the jersey number of Chiefs' QB1 Patrick Mahomes.

When asked whether she was still positive that the Chiefs would win the Super Bowl, Kelly said, "Absolutely! I don't know that Patrick Mahomes knows how to lose. Every time it seems like it's a possibility, he seems to pull it out. I'm confident that will happen and hopefully, he won't have to be coming from behind."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628276900594.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. Photos courtesy Governor's Office" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. Photos courtesy Governor's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostKansas Governor Laura Kelly believes in being fiscally responsible, and she believes that her Axing Your Taxes package will be fiscally responsible while saving Kansans approximately $500 million over the next three years.Kelly discussed her Axing Your Taxes package during an exclusive interview with Salina Post on Tuesday afternoon.The governor announced on Jan. 19 that the package, comprised of three parts, had been introduced in the Kansas House and Senate.Kelly told Salina Post that the package builds off of last year's bipartisan legislation that she signed to gradually eliminate over three years the 6.5 percent state sales tax on groceries."One of the three things my bill does is eliminate the state portion of the food sales tax completely and immediately," Kelly said. "The money is in the budget. The revenue would be coming in to cover that for as far out as we can see, so there's absolutely no reason to not do that."If that part of the package is passed, the state sales tax would immediately be eliminated on groceries, diapers, and feminine hygiene products.The second component of Kelly's proposed legislation would create in August a four-day sales tax holiday on school supplies, personal computers, instructional materials, and art supplies."That will help not only our parents and teachers, but I think it will also help our businesses, particularly those on the borders of states that have that sales tax holiday," she said.The third component would benefit retirees who might be taxed on their Social Security income. Currently, Kansans earning less than $75,000 annually do not pay state income tax on social security income. Under Kelly's proposal, no Kansas retiree making under $100,000 would pay full taxes on Social Security income."That would help a lot of our senior citizens," Kelly said. "It would help put more money back in their pockets."Kelly said that her administration is estimating a $500 million in savings for Kansans from the three components combined."Everybody benefits," she said.Should the tax cut package be approved, no state services will need to be cut to make up for the estimated $500 million in tax savings, Kelly said."I am a true fiscal conservative. I don't like to spend money I don't have. I won't spend money I don't have," she said. "So you can trust that we've looked at this every which way from Sunday. We won't touch our schools. We won't touch our transportation program. All of those will remain intact with these tax cuts in place."Kelly said she was not proposing any additional relief measures at this point."We thought this was a fiscally responsible approach to take for providing relief," she said.Kelly did say, however, that as her administration is putting together its budget proposal for next year, "we will look at the numbers and see if that allows us to do some more."Early childhood and childcareOn Jan. 10, Kelly signed an executive order to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. Kelly said the executive order will give her administration a year to study the current early childhood services that are being provided by the state."We have a slew of different entities that are providing some sort of service to early childhood. We want to study all of that. We'll likely be working with the Hunt Institute out of North Carolina. They are experts in this area," she said.Once the study is complete, recommendations will be made for realigning early childhood services, including the possible creation of a cabinet-level agency."That agency would focus entirely on the range of services for early childhood to ensure that we have more consistency, more continuity, less overlap, with fewer gaps" to make better use of resources for early childhood, including childcare, Kelly said. Kelly's second term"If you listened to the State of the State, you know that we have a lot of plans for the second term, including building on many of the things that we started in the first term. That would include things like broadband expansion. We are being focused like a laser ensuring that as many homes and hospitals, schools, and businesses as want are connected to high-speed internet. That will continue to be a major focus of our administration," Kelly said.Affordable housing, which Kelly noted was an important issue for the Salina area, also will continue to be a focus of her administration."We've been working with your local folks to ensure that you have plenty of housing available for all the jobs that are being created in your area," she said."And then all of that flows into our effort to build our workforce. We have been very successful in bringing businesses and bringing jobs to Kansas. We need to ensure that they have the people they need," she added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662056609748.png" alt="Kelly kicked off legal sports betting in Kansas on Sept. 1 in the&nbsp;Hollywood Casino in Kansas City, Kan. Kelly placed the first wager in the state, a $15 bet that the Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kelly kicked off legal sports betting in Kansas on Sept. 1 in the&nbsp;Hollywood Casino in Kansas City, Kan. Kelly placed the first wager in the state, a $15 bet that the Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City ChiefsOn Sept. 1, Kelly placed the first legal sports wager in Kansas when she bet $15 on the Kansas City Chiefs to win Super Bowl LVII. The amount was no coincidence as 15 also happens to be the jersey number of Chiefs' QB1 Patrick Mahomes.When asked whether she was still positive that the Chiefs would win the Super Bowl, Kelly said, "Absolutely! I don't know that Patrick Mahomes knows how to lose. Every time it seems like it's a possibility, he seems to pull it out. I'm confident that will happen and hopefully, he won't have to be coming from behind."

Governor Kelly talks axing taxes, early childhood, second term, Chiefs

From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:

Share your artwork with your community! Apply now to display your art in our Gallery 708 here: <a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/programs-services/artists-authors/gallery-708/?fbclid=IwAR2NvZtv4bn-a-oczAtFkgnmQ3hkdB2ethewjmkEm8eRE4ICCNA-aHUsIsc" target="_blank">https://salinapubliclibrary.org/.../artists.../gallery-708/</a>

From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:Share your artwork with your community! Apply now to display your art in our Gallery 708 here: <a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/programs-services/artists-authors/gallery-708/?fbclid=IwAR2NvZtv4bn-a-oczAtFkgnmQ3hkdB2ethewjmkEm8eRE4ICCNA-aHUsIsc" target="_blank">https://salinapubliclibrary.org/.../artists.../gallery-708/</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675308068382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Salina Public Library seeks artists for Gallery 708 exhibitions

By Patricia Jones, Alliance (Neb.) Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Now that January has ended, we should have all the forms we need to file our federal and state income taxes. One of the biggest changes in our federal 2022 taxes is the Child Tax Credit, which is claimed by tens of millions of Americans every year.

As a response to the economic problems created by COVID, for 2021 Congress changed the child tax credit so it was higher and fully refundable. Their goal was to reduce child poverty in the United States.

And it worked! Combined with other relief efforts, the expansion helped lower child poverty by more than 40 percent between 2020 and 2021, from 9.7% to a record low of 5.2%, according to the Census Bureau. This meant 3.7 million children were lifted out of poverty in 2021.

What were the changes? The amount of the credit was $3,000 per child, $3,600 if they were under age 6. 17-year-olds were included. For July through December, the credit was paid out monthly: $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17, $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6. This enabled families to budget and spend the money as it was needed.

Those changes all ended in December, 2021, for taxes filed by April, 2022.

The rules reverted back to those that were in place for filing 2020 returns. The amount of the credit is $2,000 per child through age 16. There were no early payments last year.

According to the IRS, you can claim the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child, meaning

· Be under age 17 at the end of the year

· Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (grandchild, niece or nephew)

· Provide no more than half of their own financial support during the year

· Have lived with you for more than half the year

· Be properly claimed as your dependent on your tax return

· Have been a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien

You qualify for the full amount of the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). Parents and guardians with higher incomes may be eligible to claim a partial credit.

Last year households could claim the credit even if they hadn't earned income from a job or didn't owe any income taxes. Instead, only up to $1,500 of the Child Tax Credit is refundable for some lower-income individuals with children. You must have at least $2,500 of earned income to even qualify for this partial refund.

You have to file a tax return to get any of the Child Tax Credit refund. You must file Schedule 8812 to figure the amount of the credit.

Families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, Adoption Credit, or Education credits.

The IRS asks that, if possible, people file electronically rather than mailing in paper forms. The library has public computers that anyone can use. Log in using your library card number. If you aren’t a patron of the library, you can use a guest pass if you provide a current photo ID. You can print from the computer for 25¢ a page.

The library will print blank tax forms for patrons at no cost at their request. This does not include the tax instruction booklets, just the blank tax forms.

The IRS is generally promising refunds within 21 days of filing of electronic returns. This would be true for people who file online, make no errors on their return, and request that their refund be directly deposited into their bank account.

If you qualify for tax credits and are getting a refund, file your income taxes soon!

By Patricia Jones, Alliance (Neb.) Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityNow that January has ended, we should have all the forms we need to file our federal and state income taxes. One of the biggest changes in our federal 2022 taxes is the Child Tax Credit, which is claimed by tens of millions of Americans every year.As a response to the economic problems created by COVID, for 2021 Congress changed the child tax credit so it was higher and fully refundable. Their goal was to reduce child poverty in the United States.And it worked! Combined with other relief efforts, the expansion helped lower child poverty by more than 40 percent between 2020 and 2021, from 9.7% to a record low of 5.2%, according to the Census Bureau. This meant 3.7 million children were lifted out of poverty in 2021.What were the changes? The amount of the credit was $3,000 per child, $3,600 if they were under age 6. 17-year-olds were included. For July through December, the credit was paid out monthly: $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17, $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6. This enabled families to budget and spend the money as it was needed.Those changes all ended in December, 2021, for taxes filed by April, 2022.The rules reverted back to those that were in place for filing 2020 returns. The amount of the credit is $2,000 per child through age 16. There were no early payments last year.According to the IRS, you can claim the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child, meaningyour dependent must:· Be under age 17 at the end of the year· Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (grandchild, niece or nephew)· Provide no more than half of their own financial support during the year· Have lived with you for more than half the year· Be properly claimed as your dependent on your tax return· Have been a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien· Have a valid Social Security NumberYou qualify for the full amount of the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). Parents and guardians with higher incomes may be eligible to claim a partial credit.Last year households could claim the credit even if they hadn't earned income from a job or didn't owe any income taxes. Instead, only up to $1,500 of the Child Tax Credit is refundable for some lower-income individuals with children. You must have at least $2,500 of earned income to even qualify for this partial refund.You have to file a tax return to get any of the Child Tax Credit refund. You must file Schedule 8812 to figure the amount of the credit.Families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, Adoption Credit, or Education credits.The IRS asks that, if possible, people file electronically rather than mailing in paper forms. The library has public computers that anyone can use. Log in using your library card number. If you aren’t a patron of the library, you can use a guest pass if you provide a current photo ID. You can print from the computer for 25¢ a page.The library will print blank tax forms for patrons at no cost at their request. This does not include the tax instruction booklets, just the blank tax forms.The IRS is generally promising refunds within 21 days of filing of electronic returns. This would be true for people who file online, make no errors on their return, and request that their refund be directly deposited into their bank account.If you qualify for tax credits and are getting a refund, file your income taxes soon!

Getting Ahead: Child tax credit 2022

Next week, the diversity in school debate returns to neighboring state Missouri via House Bill 952, its anti-1619 Project bill, joining the earlier proposed Parents' Bill of Rights, SB 776. Missouri, a bellwether for policymaking in Kansas, points to the likely resuscitation of this political debate after similar efforts slowed in the Kansas legislature. Coupled with Florida’s recent rejection of AP African American Course in public schools, the two events mark a resurging salvo in a larger argument over school curriculum and diversity.

The Parent’s Bill prohibits school districts from denying parental review of curricula and educational materials utilized by the school. Other elements include: notification about safety issues impacting their children, the right to visit their child in school, the right to review their children’s school records, and the right to be heard at school board meetings. Hardly any of these issues are prohibited by school systems. The more dangerous component includes parent rights to review information on teachers, lecturers, and presenters; and the right to object to materials parents find inappropriate.

Additionally, the bill undergirds a larger educational framework by the Missouri General Assembly to ban Critical Race Theory (CRT) and 1619 Project. The combined legislation, which acts to empower parental say over curriculum, is a bit of misnomer given the bill does not extend to calculus, physics, and other areas of study, but is a legislative condemnation of all things “diversity.”

The problem is that Missouri’s bill, similar to the Kansas version, incorrectly conflates CRT theory with any diversity related subject matter, particularly black history. The law is abstractly constructed as a broad framework that allows parents and politicians to excise certain subject matter for political propaganda.

For example, an educator cannot identify people, entities, or institutions in the United States as “inherently, immutably, or systematically sexist, racist, anti-LGBT, bigoted, biased, privileged, or oppressed.” Is the legislation suggesting that the Ku Klux Klan (an entity) is not inherently racist? Although numerous studies repeatedly confirm that the criminal justice system (an American institution) unequally treats Black Americans, are educators to ignore the incongruities in the system? Other elements of the law are just as confounding.

Logical analysis of the educational curriculum is not what’s at stake here, nor is it the real intent. Political operatives who focused on CRT as a mechanism to denounce “liberal” education, ironically use it to craft their own doctrine of education- an America with no imperfections. Black History and other “diversity” subjects are uncomfortable because they question the centrality of democracy as a shared American identity. Within Black history is always the question- freedom for who? When? How?

The circumstances of this legislation are also more ominous than political division. The adversarial nature of these politicized claims of “unpatriotic” education has created an upsurge in harassment by opponents to diversity. Teachers, lectures, and writers become the focus of online and physical harassment.

Parents should think deeply about this legislation when debate returns to Kansas. How are parents truly empowered? What will their children fail to learn about themselves or society? In what ways are teachers and educators endangered by these sentiments? Why would censorship provide the pathway to patriotism? Finally, they should ask themselves if fear of diversity is a good way to prepare children for a future in a multicultural America?

Nishani Frazier is an associate professor of history and American studies at the University of Kansas. Prior to Kansas, she held positions as Associate Curator of African American History and Archives at Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS), Assistant to the Director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Archives at the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and personal assistant for Dr. John Hope Franklin, before and during his tenure as chair of President Bill Clinton's advisory board on "One America."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675308729568.jpeg" alt="Nishani Frazier" />
 <figcaption>Nishani Frazier</figcaption>
 </figure>By NISHANI FRAZIERNext week, the diversity in school debate returns to neighboring state Missouri via House Bill 952, its anti-1619 Project bill, joining the earlier proposed Parents' Bill of Rights, SB 776. Missouri, a bellwether for policymaking in Kansas, points to the likely resuscitation of this political debate after similar efforts slowed in the Kansas legislature. Coupled with Florida’s recent rejection of AP African American Course in public schools, the two events mark a resurging salvo in a larger argument over school curriculum and diversity.The Parent’s Bill prohibits school districts from denying parental review of curricula and educational materials utilized by the school. Other elements include: notification about safety issues impacting their children, the right to visit their child in school, the right to review their children’s school records, and the right to be heard at school board meetings. Hardly any of these issues are prohibited by school systems. The more dangerous component includes parent rights to review information on teachers, lecturers, and presenters; and the right to object to materials parents find inappropriate.Additionally, the bill undergirds a larger educational framework by the Missouri General Assembly to ban Critical Race Theory (CRT) and 1619 Project. The combined legislation, which acts to empower parental say over curriculum, is a bit of misnomer given the bill does not extend to calculus, physics, and other areas of study, but is a legislative condemnation of all things “diversity.”The problem is that Missouri’s bill, similar to the Kansas version, incorrectly conflates CRT theory with any diversity related subject matter, particularly black history. The law is abstractly constructed as a broad framework that allows parents and politicians to excise certain subject matter for political propaganda.For example, an educator cannot identify people, entities, or institutions in the United States as “inherently, immutably, or systematically sexist, racist, anti-LGBT, bigoted, biased, privileged, or oppressed.” Is the legislation suggesting that the Ku Klux Klan (an entity) is not inherently racist? Although numerous studies repeatedly confirm that the criminal justice system (an American institution) unequally treats Black Americans, are educators to ignore the incongruities in the system? Other elements of the law are just as confounding.Logical analysis of the educational curriculum is not what’s at stake here, nor is it the real intent. Political operatives who focused on CRT as a mechanism to denounce “liberal” education, ironically use it to craft their own doctrine of education- an America with no imperfections. Black History and other “diversity” subjects are uncomfortable because they question the centrality of democracy as a shared American identity. Within Black history is always the question- freedom for who? When? How?The circumstances of this legislation are also more ominous than political division. The adversarial nature of these politicized claims of “unpatriotic” education has created an upsurge in harassment by opponents to diversity. Teachers, lectures, and writers become the focus of online and physical harassment.Parents should think deeply about this legislation when debate returns to Kansas. How are parents truly empowered? What will their children fail to learn about themselves or society? In what ways are teachers and educators endangered by these sentiments? Why would censorship provide the pathway to patriotism? Finally, they should ask themselves if fear of diversity is a good way to prepare children for a future in a multicultural America?Nishani Frazier is an associate professor of history and American studies at the University of Kansas. Prior to Kansas, she held positions as Associate Curator of African American History and Archives at Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS), Assistant to the Director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Archives at the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and personal assistant for Dr. John Hope Franklin, before and during his tenure as chair of President Bill Clinton's advisory board on "One America."

INSIGHT KANSAS: Parents should think deeply about Parents' Bill of Rights

Ireland with Michael LIVE is coming to Salina in April.

The multimedia event combines the music, dance, and stories of Ireland and features leading Irish tenor Michael Londra.

Tickets start at $35 and go on sale at noon on Friday. Buy online at stiefeltheatre.org or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. Additionally, the Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

About the concert from the Stiefel Theatre

Following the overwhelming success of Seasons No. 1 and No. 2 of the Ireland With Michael travel and music series on PBS in 2021 and 2022 (over 78% reach of all U.S Households), the LIVE theatrical show based on the PBS program will tour U.S cities in 2023. Season No. 3 of the PBS show will air on stations from January 2023.

Emmy® award-nominated singer and the voice of Riverdance on Broadway, Londra interlaces songs and stories of Ireland to a backdrop of spectacular footage filmed for his PBS travel series in his new show Ireland With Michael LIVE. In doing so, he creates an immersive journey around the Emerald Isle for his audience. Irish dancers, fiddles and pipes add to the feast of Celtic talent onstage, drawing the audience across the Atlantic Ocean to Ireland.

Ireland With Michael – LIVE is a celebration of Irish culture and music. Londra shares his own connection to songs and stories of his home county, his love of traditional music backed by his immensely talented band and world-champion Irish dancers.

The stunning set for Ireland With Michael LIVE adds a multimedia dimension to the show. Conceptualized and designed by an award-winning Broadway lighting and projection designer, the backdrop incorporates drone footage and excerpts from Londra’s PBS travel show of the same name. In both the television show and in Ireland With Michael LIVE, Londra tells the story of Ireland the only way he knows how - through music.

About the artist from the Stiefel Theatre

Londra is an Emmy®-nominated, internationally acclaimed Irish singer, producer, and TV host from the opera capital of Ireland, a small town on the southeast coast called Wexford. His big break came when he was cast as the lead tenor in Riverdance on Broadway and subsequently on the U.S. National tour of the same show, which he toured for two years. Londra’s first solo album Celt was produced by acclaimed producer, Steve Skinner, who co-produced the Grammy-nominated soundtrack of RENT. In 2011, Londra produced a concert special for PBS called Beyond Celtic, which he co-produced with Mindfox Productions. The special aired on stations across the United States in 2011 and earned him two Emmy® nominations. In 2013, Londra became a mentor for Grammy® University teaching music business students from Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities in Nashville.

Londra has been a featured guest singer with Irish supergroups De Dannan and Téada. In 2013, he performed with Judy Collins for the Kennedy family at the JFK 50 celebrations to honor President John F. Kennedy’s trip to Ireland in 1963. His version of Danny Boy is described as “one of the best recordings of the piece in history” and has been viewed 11 million times on YouTube.

To learn more about Londra or his tours of Ireland go to <a href="http://www.IrelandwithMichael.com">IrelandwithMichael.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675300174125.jpeg" alt="Michael Londra. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Michael Londra. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTIreland with Michael LIVE is coming to Salina in April.The multimedia event combines the music, dance, and stories of Ireland and features leading Irish tenor Michael Londra.Tickets start at $35 and go on sale at noon on Friday. Buy online at stiefeltheatre.org or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. Additionally, the Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.About the concert from the Stiefel TheatreFollowing the overwhelming success of Seasons No. 1 and No. 2 of the Ireland With Michael travel and music series on PBS in 2021 and 2022 (over 78% reach of all U.S Households), the LIVE theatrical show based on the PBS program will tour U.S cities in 2023. Season No. 3 of the PBS show will air on stations from January 2023. Emmy® award-nominated singer and the voice of Riverdance on Broadway, Londra interlaces songs and stories of Ireland to a backdrop of spectacular footage filmed for his PBS travel series in his new show Ireland With Michael LIVE. In doing so, he creates an immersive journey around the Emerald Isle for his audience. Irish dancers, fiddles and pipes add to the feast of Celtic talent onstage, drawing the audience across the Atlantic Ocean to Ireland. Ireland With Michael – LIVE is a celebration of Irish culture and music. Londra shares his own connection to songs and stories of his home county, his love of traditional music backed by his immensely talented band and world-champion Irish dancers. The stunning set for Ireland With Michael LIVE adds a multimedia dimension to the show. Conceptualized and designed by an award-winning Broadway lighting and projection designer, the backdrop incorporates drone footage and excerpts from Londra’s PBS travel show of the same name. In both the television show and in Ireland With Michael LIVE, Londra tells the story of Ireland the only way he knows how - through music.About the artist from the Stiefel TheatreLondra is an Emmy®-nominated, internationally acclaimed Irish singer, producer, and TV host from the opera capital of Ireland, a small town on the southeast coast called Wexford. His big break came when he was cast as the lead tenor in Riverdance on Broadway and subsequently on the U.S. National tour of the same show, which he toured for two years. Londra’s first solo album Celt was produced by acclaimed producer, Steve Skinner, who co-produced the Grammy-nominated soundtrack of RENT. In 2011, Londra produced a concert special for PBS called Beyond Celtic, which he co-produced with Mindfox Productions. The special aired on stations across the United States in 2011 and earned him two Emmy® nominations. In 2013, Londra became a mentor for Grammy® University teaching music business students from Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities in Nashville. Londra has been a featured guest singer with Irish supergroups De Dannan and Téada. In 2013, he performed with Judy Collins for the Kennedy family at the JFK 50 celebrations to honor President John F. Kennedy’s trip to Ireland in 1963. His version of Danny Boy is described as “one of the best recordings of the piece in history” and has been viewed 11 million times on YouTube. To learn more about Londra or his tours of Ireland go to <a href="http://www.IrelandwithMichael.com">IrelandwithMichael.com</a>.

'Ireland with Michael LIVE' in Salina April 1; tickets on sale Friday

Today is Thursday, Feb. 2, the 33rd day of 2023. There are 332 days left in the year.

On Feb. 2, 1990, in a dramatic concession to South Africa's Black majority, President F.W. de Klerk lifted a ban on the African National Congress and promised to free Nelson Mandela.

In 1536, present-day Buenos Aires, Argentina, was founded by Pedro de Mendoza of Spain.

In 1653, New Amsterdam — now New York City — was incorporated.

In 1887, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, held its first Groundhog Day festival.

In 1913, New York City's rebuilt Grand Central Terminal officially opened to the public at one minute past midnight.

In 1914, Charles Chaplin made his movie debut as the comedy short "Making a Living" was released by Keystone Film Co.

In 1925, the legendary Alaska Serum Run ended as the last of a series of dog mushers brought a life-saving treatment to Nome, the scene of a diphtheria epidemic, six days after the drug left Nenana.

In 1943, the remainder of Nazi forces from the Battle of Stalingrad surrendered in a major victory for the Soviets in World War II.

In 1948, President Harry S. Truman sent a 10-point civil rights program to Congress, where the proposals ran into fierce opposition from Southern lawmakers.

In 1980, NBC News reported the FBI had conducted a sting operation targeting members of Congress using phony Arab businessmen in what became known as "Abscam," a codename protested by Arab-Americans.

In 2006, House Republicans elected John Boehner of Ohio as their new majority leader to replace the indicted Tom DeLay.

In 2016, health officials reported that a person in Texas had become infected with the Zika virus through sex in the first case of the illness being transmitted within the United States.

In 2017, using a backhoe to smash through a barricade of water-filled footlockers, police stormed Delaware's largest prison, ending a nearly 20-hour hostage standoff with inmates; one hostage, a guard, was killed.

In 2020, the Philippines reported that a 44-year-old Chinese man from Wuhan had died in a Manila hospital from the new coronavirus; it was the first death from the virus to be recorded outside of China. Authorities in parts of China extended the Lunar New Year holiday break well into February to try to keep people at home.

Ten years ago: Former Navy SEAL and "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle was fatally shot along with a friend, Chad Littlefield, at a gun range west of Glen Rose, Texas; suspect Eddie Ray Routh was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Coach Bill Parcells, Warren Sapp, Cris Carter, Jonathan Ogden and Larry Allen were elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings closed out the season with two of the top NFL awards from The Associated Press: Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year. Actor John Kerr, 81, died in Pasadena, California.

Five years ago: At the sentencing hearing in Michigan for former sports doctor Larry Nassar, a distraught father of three girls who'd been sexually abused tried to attack Nassar before being tackled by sheriff's deputies and hauled out of court. (Randall Margraves later apologized; the judge said there was "no way" she would fine him or send him to jail for trying to attack Nassar.)

One year ago: CNN President Jeff Zucker abruptly resigned after acknowledging a consensual relationship with another network executive. The relationship came to light during the investigation that led to the firing of the news network's anchor Chris Cuomo. Four men were charged with being part of the drug distribution crew that supplied a deadly mix of narcotics to actor Michael K. Williams of "The Wire," who had overdosed five months earlier.

Today's birthdays: Comedian Tom Smothers is 86. Rock singer-guitarist Graham Nash is 81. Television executive Barry Diller is 81. Country singer Howard Bellamy (The Bellamy Brothers) is 77. TV chef Ina Garten is 75. Actor Jack McGee is 74. Actor Brent Spiner is 74. Rock musician Ross Valory (Journey) is 74. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, is 71. The former president of South Korea, Park Geun-hye, is 71. Model Christie Brinkley is 69. Actor Michael Talbott is 68. Actor Kim Zimmer is 68. Actor Michael T. Weiss is 61. Actor-comedian Adam Ferrara is 57. Rock musician Robert DeLeo (Army of Anyone; Stone Temple Pilots) is 57. Actor Jennifer Westfeldt is 53. Rapper T-Mo is 51. Actor Marissa Jaret Winokur is 50. Actor Lori Beth Denberg is 47. Singer Shakira is 46. Actor Rich Sommer is 45. Country singer Blaine Larsen is 37. Actor Zosia Mamet is 35.

<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, Feb. 2, the 33rd day of 2023. There are 332 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 2, 1990, in a dramatic concession to South Africa's Black majority, President F.W. de Klerk lifted a ban on the African National Congress and promised to free Nelson Mandela.On this date:In 1536, present-day Buenos Aires, Argentina, was founded by Pedro de Mendoza of Spain.In 1653, New Amsterdam — now New York City — was incorporated.In 1887, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, held its first Groundhog Day festival.In 1913, New York City's rebuilt Grand Central Terminal officially opened to the public at one minute past midnight.In 1914, Charles Chaplin made his movie debut as the comedy short "Making a Living" was released by Keystone Film Co.In 1925, the legendary Alaska Serum Run ended as the last of a series of dog mushers brought a life-saving treatment to Nome, the scene of a diphtheria epidemic, six days after the drug left Nenana.In 1943, the remainder of Nazi forces from the Battle of Stalingrad surrendered in a major victory for the Soviets in World War II.In 1948, President Harry S. Truman sent a 10-point civil rights program to Congress, where the proposals ran into fierce opposition from Southern lawmakers.In 1980, NBC News reported the FBI had conducted a sting operation targeting members of Congress using phony Arab businessmen in what became known as "Abscam," a codename protested by Arab-Americans.In 2006, House Republicans elected John Boehner of Ohio as their new majority leader to replace the indicted Tom DeLay.In 2016, health officials reported that a person in Texas had become infected with the Zika virus through sex in the first case of the illness being transmitted within the United States.In 2017, using a backhoe to smash through a barricade of water-filled footlockers, police stormed Delaware's largest prison, ending a nearly 20-hour hostage standoff with inmates; one hostage, a guard, was killed.In 2020, the Philippines reported that a 44-year-old Chinese man from Wuhan had died in a Manila hospital from the new coronavirus; it was the first death from the virus to be recorded outside of China. Authorities in parts of China extended the Lunar New Year holiday break well into February to try to keep people at home.Ten years ago: Former Navy SEAL and "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle was fatally shot along with a friend, Chad Littlefield, at a gun range west of Glen Rose, Texas; suspect Eddie Ray Routh was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Coach Bill Parcells, Warren Sapp, Cris Carter, Jonathan Ogden and Larry Allen were elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings closed out the season with two of the top NFL awards from The Associated Press: Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year. Actor John Kerr, 81, died in Pasadena, California.Five years ago: At the sentencing hearing in Michigan for former sports doctor Larry Nassar, a distraught father of three girls who'd been sexually abused tried to attack Nassar before being tackled by sheriff's deputies and hauled out of court. (Randall Margraves later apologized; the judge said there was "no way" she would fine him or send him to jail for trying to attack Nassar.)One year ago: CNN President Jeff Zucker abruptly resigned after acknowledging a consensual relationship with another network executive. The relationship came to light during the investigation that led to the firing of the news network's anchor Chris Cuomo. Four men were charged with being part of the drug distribution crew that supplied a deadly mix of narcotics to actor Michael K. Williams of "The Wire," who had overdosed five months earlier.Today's birthdays: Comedian Tom Smothers is 86. Rock singer-guitarist Graham Nash is 81. Television executive Barry Diller is 81. Country singer Howard Bellamy (The Bellamy Brothers) is 77. TV chef Ina Garten is 75. Actor Jack McGee is 74. Actor Brent Spiner is 74. Rock musician Ross Valory (Journey) is 74. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, is 71. The former president of South Korea, Park Geun-hye, is 71. Model Christie Brinkley is 69. Actor Michael Talbott is 68. Actor Kim Zimmer is 68. Actor Michael T. Weiss is 61. Actor-comedian Adam Ferrara is 57. Rock musician Robert DeLeo (Army of Anyone; Stone Temple Pilots) is 57. Actor Jennifer Westfeldt is 53. Rapper T-Mo is 51. Actor Marissa Jaret Winokur is 50. Actor Lori Beth Denberg is 47. Singer Shakira is 46. Actor Rich Sommer is 45. Country singer Blaine Larsen is 37. Actor Zosia Mamet is 35.

Today in History - Feb. 2

Salina Dental Arts announced today that it still has openings for the Give Kids a Smile Program.

On Friday, Salina Dental Arts, 1829 S. Ohio Street, is offering Kansas children free dental screenings, cleanings, and education as a part of the Give Kids a Smile program. 

Children must be between the ages of 3-12 years of age

Parents/guardians are asked to call Salina Dental Arts at 785-823-2472 to schedule children's appointments. All patients will be reserved and scheduled on a first come first serve basis.

Give Kids a Smile is an ADA Foundation program that brings dentists and other volunteers together to provide screenings, cleanings and education to underserved children throughout the United States, according to information from Salina Dental Arts. The program began as a one-day event each February but has since grown to local and national events year-round serving approximately 350,000 to 400,000 children each year.

Salina Dental Arts noted that while many children are enrolled in Medicaid and visiting the dentist at increasing rates, there are still many children who do not see a dentist at all.

Across the nation this year there will be an estimated 1,500 events where nearly 40,000 dentists, dental team members, and other volunteers come together for Give Kids a Smile 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675286212446.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Dental Arts announced today that it still has openings for the Give Kids a Smile Program.On Friday, Salina Dental Arts, 1829 S. Ohio Street, is offering Kansas children free dental screenings, cleanings, and education as a part of the Give Kids a Smile program. Children must be between the ages of 3-12 years of ageParents/guardians are asked to call Salina Dental Arts at 785-823-2472 to schedule children's appointments. All patients will be reserved and scheduled on a first come first serve basis.Give Kids a Smile is an ADA Foundation program that brings dentists and other volunteers together to provide screenings, cleanings and education to underserved children throughout the United States, according to information from Salina Dental Arts. The program began as a one-day event each February but has since grown to local and national events year-round serving approximately 350,000 to 400,000 children each year.Salina Dental Arts noted that while many children are enrolled in Medicaid and visiting the dentist at increasing rates, there are still many children who do not see a dentist at all.Across the nation this year there will be an estimated 1,500 events where nearly 40,000 dentists, dental team members, and other volunteers come together for Give Kids a Smile

Salina Dental Arts offering free children's screenings, cleanings

Students will spend one week at KHP Training Academy

High school students interested in law enforcement will have the opportunity this summer to see what law enforcement training and careers are like through the Cadet Law Enforcement Academy program. The Cadet Law program is hosted by the Patrol and sponsored by the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. Cadet Law will be held from June 11-June 16.

Cadet Law gives young men and women the opportunity to learn about the duties, training, and discipline that go along with a career in law enforcement. Students will learn a great deal about leadership, and about coming together as a team.

“KHP has a great relationship with the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. By working together, this program gives us the opportunity to help high school students understand and appreciate the law enforcement field. While at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy, they will get the opportunity to experience some of the training that law enforcement officers receive,” said Patrol Superintendent, Colonel Herman Jones.

Students at Cadet Law are instructed by KHP Troopers who will help develop and encourage the students, mentoring them throughout the week of Cadet Law.

Cadet Law participants will experience classroom instruction, and the real-world activities of a Trooper. Cadets will go to the firing range and practice pursuit driving at the driving range. They will also get the opportunity to ride with the Patrol’s pilots in agency aircraft and see presentations from the Patrol’s canine handlers. Physical training and attention to detail are both emphasized throughout the duration of the program.

In order for a student to be eligible to attend Cadet Law, students must be a high school student entering their Senior year or a student that has just graduated.&nbsp; They must also have a “C+” academic average. Students must be deemed medically fit to participate in all activities. Students will need to fill out an application to attend, including writing a brief essay on why they would like to participate in the program. Applications are due by March 31, 2023. Contact the American Legion at (785) 232-9315 for an application and further information.&nbsp; There is a $50 application fee for the cadet, and there is a $300 sponsorship fee by the local American Legion Post or American Legion Auxiliary Post. Lodging, food, and uniform are provided for the week. More information and the application for Cadet Law can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaslegion.org/196-2">Cadet Law Enforcement Academy – Kansas Department of The American Legion</a>

<h2>Students will spend one week at KHP Training Academy</h2>KHPHigh school students interested in law enforcement will have the opportunity this summer to see what law enforcement training and careers are like through the Cadet Law Enforcement Academy program. The Cadet Law program is hosted by the Patrol and sponsored by the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. Cadet Law will be held from June 11-June 16.Cadet Law gives young men and women the opportunity to learn about the duties, training, and discipline that go along with a career in law enforcement. Students will learn a great deal about leadership, and about coming together as a team.“KHP has a great relationship with the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. By working together, this program gives us the opportunity to help high school students understand and appreciate the law enforcement field. While at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy, they will get the opportunity to experience some of the training that law enforcement officers receive,” said Patrol Superintendent, Colonel Herman Jones.Students at Cadet Law are instructed by KHP Troopers who will help develop and encourage the students, mentoring them throughout the week of Cadet Law.Cadet Law participants will experience classroom instruction, and the real-world activities of a Trooper. Cadets will go to the firing range and practice pursuit driving at the driving range. They will also get the opportunity to ride with the Patrol’s pilots in agency aircraft and see presentations from the Patrol’s canine handlers. Physical training and attention to detail are both emphasized throughout the duration of the program.In order for a student to be eligible to attend Cadet Law, students must be a high school student entering their Senior year or a student that has just graduated.&nbsp; They must also have a “C+” academic average. Students must be deemed medically fit to participate in all activities. Students will need to fill out an application to attend, including writing a brief essay on why they would like to participate in the program. Applications are due by March 31, 2023. Contact the American Legion at (785) 232-9315 for an application and further information.&nbsp; There is a $50 application fee for the cadet, and there is a $300 sponsorship fee by the local American Legion Post or American Legion Auxiliary Post. Lodging, food, and uniform are provided for the week. More information and the application for Cadet Law can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaslegion.org/196-2">Cadet Law Enforcement Academy – Kansas Department of The American Legion</a>

Cadet Law gives HS students experience in law enforcement world

By ALVARO PUIG Consumer education specialist, FTC

Nowadays, there are health-related apps and websites everywhere that let you track things like your physical activity, health conditions, caloric intake, prescriptions, and even ovulation. They ask you for details about yourself and your health, but what if they use and share your information in ways they’re not supposed to?

The FTC says GoodRx, a digital health platform that offers virtual doctor visits and lets users get coupons for prescription drugs, broke its promises to users about how it would use and share their personal health information.

The FTC claims GoodRx shared information about users’ health conditions and prescription drugs with digital advertisers like Facebook and Google without users’ permission — and contrary to what it told users in its privacy policy. GoodRx then used that sensitive health information to target its users with health ads on users’ social media feeds. To generate those ads, GoodRx shared with Facebook and others information about its users’ prescription medications and sensitive health concerns — things like erectile dysfunction or treatments for sexually transmitted diseases. Worst of all, it failed to tell its users.

To settle this matter,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog/2023/02/first-ftc-health-breach-notification-rule-case-addresses-goodrxs-not-so-good-privacy-practices">GoodRx will pay a $1.5 million penalty</a>. The company is prohibited from sharing health data with relevant third parties (like Facebook) that would use it for advertising, and must get users’ permission to share health data with relevant third parties for anything else.

Health apps can have a great benefit to users. But convenience may come at a cost. As this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings?sort_by=field_date&amp;field_mission%5B29%5D=29&amp;field_consumer_protection_topics=2281">and other FTC cases show</a>, there can be risks if companies don’t keep their promises. Companies might create profiles about you and share your sensitive information with other companies. And once your information is no longer private, it’s hard (maybe impossible) to keep it out of the wrong hands.

Here are some ways to protect your privacy online and when you use an app:

●Opt out of targeted ads, if possible.&nbsp;A company’s privacy notice or policy can be hard to read, but it should spell out what the company will or won’t do with your information: Will it share your information with other companies? For targeted advertising? Can you control whether ads will be targeted to you based on your app usage and browsing activity? The&nbsp;<a href="https://youradchoices.com/control">Digital Advertising Alliance</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://optout.networkadvertising.org/?c=1#!%2F">Network Advertising Initiative</a>&nbsp;also have free opt-out tools. If you choose to opt out, do so on each device and browser you use.

●Check if you can customize your privacy settings.&nbsp;Can you adjust the app’s permissions so it doesn’t have access to information it doesn’t need? Does the app track your device’s location? If the app doesn’t need the info, especially your location, turn it off. If the app does need it, consider limiting access to only when the app is in use.

●Find out if you have the right to tell the company to delete your data.&nbsp;Some state laws give you that right. See the&nbsp;<a href="https://iapp.org/resources/article/us-state-privacy-legislation-tracker/">U.S. State Privacy Legislation Tracker</a>&nbsp;from the International Association of Privacy Professionals to learn more.

For more advice, check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/protecting-your-privacy-online">guide to protecting your privacy online</a>.

By ALVARO PUIG Consumer education specialist, FTCNowadays, there are health-related apps and websites everywhere that let you track things like your physical activity, health conditions, caloric intake, prescriptions, and even ovulation. They ask you for details about yourself and your health, but what if they use and share your information in ways they’re not supposed to?The FTC says GoodRx, a digital health platform that offers virtual doctor visits and lets users get coupons for prescription drugs, broke its promises to users about how it would use and share their personal health information.The FTC claims GoodRx shared information about users’ health conditions and prescription drugs with digital advertisers like Facebook and Google without users’ permission — and contrary to what it told users in its privacy policy. GoodRx then used that sensitive health information to target its users with health ads on users’ social media feeds. To generate those ads, GoodRx shared with Facebook and others information about its users’ prescription medications and sensitive health concerns — things like erectile dysfunction or treatments for sexually transmitted diseases. Worst of all, it failed to tell its users.To settle this matter,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog/2023/02/first-ftc-health-breach-notification-rule-case-addresses-goodrxs-not-so-good-privacy-practices">GoodRx will pay a $1.5 million penalty</a>. The company is prohibited from sharing health data with relevant third parties (like Facebook) that would use it for advertising, and must get users’ permission to share health data with relevant third parties for anything else.Health apps can have a great benefit to users. But convenience may come at a cost. As this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings?sort_by=field_date&amp;field_mission%5B29%5D=29&amp;field_consumer_protection_topics=2281">and other FTC cases show</a>, there can be risks if companies don’t keep their promises. Companies might create profiles about you and share your sensitive information with other companies. And once your information is no longer private, it’s hard (maybe impossible) to keep it out of the wrong hands.Here are some ways to protect your privacy online and when you use an app:●Opt out of targeted ads, if possible.&nbsp;A company’s privacy notice or policy can be hard to read, but it should spell out what the company will or won’t do with your information: Will it share your information with other companies? For targeted advertising? Can you control whether ads will be targeted to you based on your app usage and browsing activity? The&nbsp;<a href="https://youradchoices.com/control">Digital Advertising Alliance</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://optout.networkadvertising.org/?c=1#!%2F">Network Advertising Initiative</a>&nbsp;also have free opt-out tools. If you choose to opt out, do so on each device and browser you use.●Check if you can customize your privacy settings.&nbsp;Can you adjust the app’s permissions so it doesn’t have access to information it doesn’t need? Does the app track your device’s location? If the app doesn’t need the info, especially your location, turn it off. If the app does need it, consider limiting access to only when the app is in use.●Find out if you have the right to tell the company to delete your data.&nbsp;Some state laws give you that right. See the&nbsp;<a href="https://iapp.org/resources/article/us-state-privacy-legislation-tracker/">U.S. State Privacy Legislation Tracker</a>&nbsp;from the International Association of Privacy Professionals to learn more.For more advice, check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/protecting-your-privacy-online">guide to protecting your privacy online</a>.

FTC: GoodRx’s not-so-good privacy practices come to light

HUTCHINSON — Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre announced Penny Bettles as the new Development Administrator. Penny started Monday and will plan and coordinate all development activities, major fundraising activities, sponsorship programs, and related special projects.

Bettles also will also seek out and write grant proposals along with assisting in social media content, community outreach and overseeing educational programming.

Bettles was the Executive Director for Salina Downtown, Inc. for over 10 years and still resides in Salina, but was&nbsp;born and raised in Hutch and graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1999.

“We are very excited to welcome Penny into the Fox Family, which includes our board members, staff, volunteers, donors, patrons, and sponsors," said Fox Executive Director Josh Davies. "Penny’s passion for the Fox, her professional background, and impressive skillset will make her a great asset to our team as we work toward expanding the legacy of the Fox for generations to come.”

While in Salina Penny received an Associate Degree in Business Administration at Brown Mackie College in 2003. She has also gone through several leadership programs and completed courses through WSU.

“I am fortunate to be able to come back to Hutch and rediscover my hometown through a completely different perspective,” Bettles said. “I am so excited to see what the future brings for myself and the Fox Theatre.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671835265952.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Hutch Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Hutch Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch PostHUTCHINSON — Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre announced Penny Bettles as the new Development Administrator. Penny started Monday and will plan and coordinate all development activities, major fundraising activities, sponsorship programs, and related special projects.Bettles also will also seek out and write grant proposals along with assisting in social media content, community outreach and overseeing educational programming.Bettles was the Executive Director for Salina Downtown, Inc. for over 10 years and still resides in Salina, but was&nbsp;born and raised in Hutch and graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1999.“We are very excited to welcome Penny into the Fox Family, which includes our board members, staff, volunteers, donors, patrons, and sponsors," said Fox Executive Director Josh Davies. "Penny’s passion for the Fox, her professional background, and impressive skillset will make her a great asset to our team as we work toward expanding the legacy of the Fox for generations to come.”While in Salina Penny received an Associate Degree in Business Administration at Brown Mackie College in 2003. She has also gone through several leadership programs and completed courses through WSU.“I am fortunate to be able to come back to Hutch and rediscover my hometown through a completely different perspective,” Bettles said. “I am so excited to see what the future brings for myself and the Fox Theatre.”

Former Salina Downtown exec hired by Fox Theatre in Hutch

Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau

LINDSBORG - Five new exhibitions are open in the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery through March 12.

The exhibitions include paintings by Oklahoma artist J. Jay McVicker (1911-2004), a Jim Turner photographic retrospective, landscape paintings by Randall Bennett, an exhibition of early additions to the Gallery's permanent collection, and art by Smoky Valley High School students.

The Sandzén Gallery, located at 401 N. First Street in Lindsborg is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Docent tours for groups are available by two-week advance appointment. 

Midwest Modern showcases the work of J. Jay McVicker from a private collection in Oklahoma. Born at the dawn of the twentieth century, McVicker was first a regionalist in the 1930s, capturing scenes of rural life and landscapes in paintings and prints. Just before World War II, his works began to incorporate dashes of geometric cubism and biomorphic surrealism. At the war’s end, the artist returned home and pushed the boundaries of what art could look like and communicate. McVicker continued to practice in the center of America, gaining recognition from his position at Oklahoma State University as he regularly submitted works to juried exhibitions all over the country for awards and purchase prizes. McVicker was prolific and passionate about his art and this exhibition will showcase works from throughout his career.

Jim Turner has been a staple of the Lindsborg community for most of his life and likely photographed more people, events, and places – all from a multitude of angles – than anyone before him. Although often recognized for his commissions photographing weddings, high school seniors, and the like, Turner's focus goes well beyond that. He writes, "My expressions have grown out of where I live. The plains have an immense beauty that most non-plains living people seem rarely to appreciate. Maybe the reason is that our beauty doesn’t jump out at the viewer like a big mountain or a crashing waterfall. Plains beauty, beside our great storm clouds and wonderful skies during sunset and sunrise, is found in the microcosms of the natural world – grasses, trees, wind, and light."

A Prairie Art Dialogue features work by Randall Bennett of Lawrence. He is a professional artist and owner/director of Tall Grass Museum Services. After earning his architecture degree at Kansas State University, he worked in the architectural profession for a number of years before returning to art school. Afterward, he took a job working in the museum exhibit fabrication industry and has stayed with it continuously. Besides his museum-related jobs, Bennett stays busy with his personal artwork. He currently has six self-published books of his artwork and two of illustrated poetry. He regularly tries new and different styles and media in order to push his own boundaries and improve as an artist.

Early Additions to the Permanent Collection will showcase artworks that came into the gallery's collection from the late 1950s through the 1980s. Curator Cori Sherman North made selections that impacted the holdings and established a well-rounded and diverse collection. A number of works were purchased and donated by Birger Sandzén's daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Pelham Greenough, while others were gifts of the artists or other enthusiastic collectors.

Art by students from Smoky Valley High School in Lindsborg rounds out the exhibitions. They will be showing works selected by instructor Gretchen Elliott in a multitude of mediums from paintings and prints to sculpture and ceramics.

For more information about Birger Sandzén, the Gallery, and these exhibitions visit <a href="http://www.sandzen.org">www.sandzen.org</a> or phone (785) 227-2220.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675220086430.jpeg" alt=""Stiletto Series 25A" by J Jay McVicker. Photo from the&nbsp;Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery via the&nbsp;Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>"Stiletto Series 25A" by J Jay McVicker. Photo from the&nbsp;Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery via the&nbsp;Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors BureauLINDSBORG - Five new exhibitions are open in the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery through March 12.The exhibitions include paintings by Oklahoma artist J. Jay McVicker (1911-2004), a Jim Turner photographic retrospective, landscape paintings by Randall Bennett, an exhibition of early additions to the Gallery's permanent collection, and art by Smoky Valley High School students.The Sandzén Gallery, located at 401 N. First Street in Lindsborg is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Docent tours for groups are available by two-week advance appointment. About the artistsMidwest Modern showcases the work of J. Jay McVicker from a private collection in Oklahoma. Born at the dawn of the twentieth century, McVicker was first a regionalist in the 1930s, capturing scenes of rural life and landscapes in paintings and prints. Just before World War II, his works began to incorporate dashes of geometric cubism and biomorphic surrealism. At the war’s end, the artist returned home and pushed the boundaries of what art could look like and communicate. McVicker continued to practice in the center of America, gaining recognition from his position at Oklahoma State University as he regularly submitted works to juried exhibitions all over the country for awards and purchase prizes. McVicker was prolific and passionate about his art and this exhibition will showcase works from throughout his career.Jim Turner has been a staple of the Lindsborg community for most of his life and likely photographed more people, events, and places – all from a multitude of angles – than anyone before him. Although often recognized for his commissions photographing weddings, high school seniors, and the like, Turner's focus goes well beyond that. He writes, "My expressions have grown out of where I live. The plains have an immense beauty that most non-plains living people seem rarely to appreciate. Maybe the reason is that our beauty doesn’t jump out at the viewer like a big mountain or a crashing waterfall. Plains beauty, beside our great storm clouds and wonderful skies during sunset and sunrise, is found in the microcosms of the natural world – grasses, trees, wind, and light."A Prairie Art Dialogue features work by Randall Bennett of Lawrence. He is a professional artist and owner/director of Tall Grass Museum Services. After earning his architecture degree at Kansas State University, he worked in the architectural profession for a number of years before returning to art school. Afterward, he took a job working in the museum exhibit fabrication industry and has stayed with it continuously. Besides his museum-related jobs, Bennett stays busy with his personal artwork. He currently has six self-published books of his artwork and two of illustrated poetry. He regularly tries new and different styles and media in order to push his own boundaries and improve as an artist.Early Additions to the Permanent Collection will showcase artworks that came into the gallery's collection from the late 1950s through the 1980s. Curator Cori Sherman North made selections that impacted the holdings and established a well-rounded and diverse collection. A number of works were purchased and donated by Birger Sandzén's daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Pelham Greenough, while others were gifts of the artists or other enthusiastic collectors.Art by students from Smoky Valley High School in Lindsborg rounds out the exhibitions. They will be showing works selected by instructor Gretchen Elliott in a multitude of mediums from paintings and prints to sculpture and ceramics.For more information about Birger Sandzén, the Gallery, and these exhibitions visit <a href="http://www.sandzen.org">www.sandzen.org</a> or phone (785) 227-2220.

Five new exhibitions open at Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery

A man was arrested early this morning after he allegedly threatened multiple people in south Salina.

Officers were first dispatched at 3 a.m. Wednesday to Panera Bread, 2375 S. Ninth Street, where a delivery driver was unloading his truck, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The delivery driver told police that a homeless-looking man made his way into the restaurant, but the driver was able to get him out of the building without incident.

A short time later, officers made contact with Mark McCluskey, 47, at Kraft Manor, but took no action because there were no issues with him at that time, Forrester said.

At approximately 3:30 a.m., officers were sent to Pancho's Mexican Food, 3029 Riffel Drive, for the report of a threats case. A 25-year-old Salina man and a 23-year-old Salina woman told police that they had given McCluskey a ride to Pancho's with the intent of buying him some food. While in the car, McCluskey allegedly rolled down the window and threatened other people, Forrester said. 

When the driver rolled up the window in an attempt to get McCluskey to stop, McCluskey allegedly threatened to shoot the driver and his passenger, Forrester said.

McCluskey had left Pancho's by the time police arrived, but was found a short while later in the next block north. He did not have a weapon, Forrester said.

McCluskey was arrested on the requested charge of criminal threat, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA man was arrested early this morning after he allegedly threatened multiple people in south Salina.Officers were first dispatched at 3 a.m. Wednesday to Panera Bread, 2375 S. Ninth Street, where a delivery driver was unloading his truck, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The delivery driver told police that a homeless-looking man made his way into the restaurant, but the driver was able to get him out of the building without incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675262411128.jpeg" alt="Mark McCluskey. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Mark McCluskey. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A short time later, officers made contact with Mark McCluskey, 47, at Kraft Manor, but took no action because there were no issues with him at that time, Forrester said.At approximately 3:30 a.m., officers were sent to Pancho's Mexican Food, 3029 Riffel Drive, for the report of a threats case. A 25-year-old Salina man and a 23-year-old Salina woman told police that they had given McCluskey a ride to Pancho's with the intent of buying him some food. While in the car, McCluskey allegedly rolled down the window and threatened other people, Forrester said. When the driver rolled up the window in an attempt to get McCluskey to stop, McCluskey allegedly threatened to shoot the driver and his passenger, Forrester said.McCluskey had left Pancho's by the time police arrived, but was found a short while later in the next block north. He did not have a weapon, Forrester said.McCluskey was arrested on the requested charge of criminal threat, Forrester said.

Alleged threat incident in south Salina lands man in jail early Wednesday

Police are looking for two men who robbed a downtown Salina jewelry store late Tuesday afternoon.

Officers were called to Vernon Jewelers, 123 N. Santa Fe Avenue, at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday for the report of a robbery.

An employee told officers that two Black men entered the store and were looking at gold chains and then wanted to look at men's rings, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. An employee got out a tray with five rings from the display case for the men to look at. One of the men then went to the restroom.

When the man returned, the other man grabbed the tray with the rings and both men fled the store and headed eastbound, Forrester said.

One man was described as an older Black man with a shaved head who was wearing a black COVID-19-style mask, a black hoodie, and blue jeans. 

The other man was described as a younger Black man with dreadlocks and a beard who was wearing a K-State shirt and a Carhartt-style tan jacket.

The rings were valued at just under $11,000, Forrester said.

Police are reviewing surveillance video from the jewelry store and the downtown Salina area, he said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for two men who robbed a downtown Salina jewelry store late Tuesday afternoon.Officers were called to Vernon Jewelers, 123 N. Santa Fe Avenue, at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday for the report of a robbery.An employee told officers that two Black men entered the store and were looking at gold chains and then wanted to look at men's rings, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. An employee got out a tray with five rings from the display case for the men to look at. One of the men then went to the restroom.When the man returned, the other man grabbed the tray with the rings and both men fled the store and headed eastbound, Forrester said.One man was described as an older Black man with a shaved head who was wearing a black COVID-19-style mask, a black hoodie, and blue jeans. The other man was described as a younger Black man with dreadlocks and a beard who was wearing a K-State shirt and a Carhartt-style tan jacket.The rings were valued at just under $11,000, Forrester said.Police are reviewing surveillance video from the jewelry store and the downtown Salina area, he said.

Downtown Salina jewelry store robbed; nearly $11,000 in rings taken

With the recent departure of former president and CEO Eric Brown, Salinans can rest assured knowing the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is in the safe hands of interim CEO and president Renee Duxler. During an interview with Salina Post, Duxler discussed the chamber's 2023 legislative agenda and the selection of the next chamber CEO/president.&nbsp;

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce's legislative agenda focuses&nbsp;on eight priorities for regional growth, economic development, community health, and overall quality of life for Salina and the area. They are listed below.

-Drive regional success and economic development -Strengthen a skilled workforce -Establish affordable, quality housing -Fortify transportation -Invest in education -Enhance quaity of life and community amenities -Ensure affordable healthcare and mental health resources -Secure access to early childhood programs

K-AIRES project proposal, Tyrell Corporation

One of the largest items on the chamber's agenda is the&nbsp;Kansas Advanced Immersive Research for Emergent Systems Center (K-AIRES) project with Tyrell Corporation and their commercial operation<a href="https://pistudios.com/">, Pure Imagination Studios</a>, and the Salina Airport Authority.

"This is really exciting. There's just a lot of innovation that's happening over at Kansas State University Salina anyway, definitely with the big money that General Atomics is giving to the organization and all of the capital improvements that they're doing over there," Duxler said.&nbsp;

Duxler said a competitive recruitment package from the state is required to secure Tyrell’s relocation to Kansas. The comprehensive package should include efforts to address facility needs, equipment, technology, and workforce and staffing incentives to successfully compete with the other states courting the company (New Mexico and California).

"If we are able, through this legislative agenda, and through talking to our legislators and our administration at the governor's office-incentivizing this company Tyrell to come in and essentially start, the Kansas State University campus there at the airport authority, it would mean a lot for Kansas State University and the airport authority, not only in jobs creation, but also just putting Salina on the map in terms of AI and those sorts of technologies."

Duxler said by attracting Tyrell Corporation to Kansas and specifically the Salina area, an estimated creation of 100 new jobs at an average salary of $150,000 per year ($72 per hour) within five&nbsp;years. The company will also see an ability to attract Fortune 100 technology companies to utilize the K-AIRES and invest in Kansas.

According to the proposal, the K-AIRES center will bring a heightened focus on aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and defense. Anchoring the south side of K-State Salina's Innovation Ramp, the K-AIRES Center will couple K-State Salina's existing expertise in crewed aviation, non-crewed aircraft systems, robotics, automation, and machine learning with Tyrell Corporation’s strength and reputation in immersive environments and simulated training and entertainment.&nbsp;

Another project the chamber has its sights set on is improving the section of West Magnolia Road located between&nbsp;between Interstate 135 and the K-State Salina campus.&nbsp;

"That section of the road is just very basic doesn't have a lot of access for multimodal biking, walking, there's not a great connector there, along Magnolia," Duxler said. "So trying to create something that helps connect the campus to the rest of the community and vice versa. Which means adding those sort of bike trail walking trail, being able to do lighting, public art, and those sorts of things that just make it a more attractive and connected."&nbsp;

The City of Salina is seeking $10 million for one mile of improvements to West Magnolia Road. In addition, a new residential subdivision is expected to be developed in this area that will add over 12,000 trips a day.&nbsp; The chamber views the West Magnolia road improvements as necessary to connect students, residents, employees, airline passengers, members of the military, businesses, and industries throughout the City and region.

Funding would specifically address:

-Upgrading 4,200 feet of three-lane roadway with medians and turn lanes. -10 foot hike and bike trail (south side) -5 foot sidewalk (north side). -Street lighting, landscaping, public art. -Bridge and culvert replacements. -Channel realignment. -Railroad crossing widening and improvements

A report was released last year listing Kansas as 51st in the nation, following the District of Columbia, when it came to access to mental health resources.

Even Governor Laura Kelly addressed the ongoing crisis in her recent State of the State address, saying that her budget would expand Mental Health Intervention Teams in Kansas schools, provide funding for adult psychiatric services in the Wichita area and funding to address the shortage of mental health workers across the state.

Duxler said that local entities like Central Kansas Mental Health and the Salina Police Department are teaming up to better respond to those in crisis.

"Here in Salina the critical intervention team is starting up soon," Duxler said. "These critical mental health responders will go out with law enforcement on calls that seem to seek or actively say they're seeking some mental health service and help law enforcement with what they're be able to do. It also keeps people out of getting engaged in the criminal justice system, when they maybe don't need to be."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Before stepping up as interim leader of the chamber, Duxler worked as the economic and workforce development director for the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. In her previous role, she lead the chamber's efforts to attract new business expansions in the Salina area, meet labor demands, and oversee the Imagine Salina program.

"So a lot of what I do at the chamber is both economic development that's with entrepreneurship and helping startups and expansions as well as that workforce piece, which is encompasses a lot because we're talking housing, we're talking childcare, we're talking all sorts of different things that influence our ability to keep and retain workforce," Duxler said.&nbsp;

Duxler said that the board of directors is "definitely taking a hard look " at what the skill set of the next chamber leader should look like.

"One of the big things that we're having conversations about is relevancy. As a member organization, maintaining our relevancy in the community, and to the activities we're doing is important," Duxler said. "we are going to be surveying our membership, asking them about the importance of the activities we do, what they'd like to see, what they'd like for us to do more of, versus things that maybe aren't as important to them."&nbsp;

Duxler said that a job posting for CEO/president would be made in the coming months.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675101063457.png" alt="Renee Duxler. Photo courtesy Salina Area Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Renee Duxler. Photo courtesy Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostWith the recent departure of former president and CEO Eric Brown, Salinans can rest assured knowing the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is in the safe hands of interim CEO and president Renee Duxler. During an interview with Salina Post, Duxler discussed the chamber's 2023 legislative agenda and the selection of the next chamber CEO/president.&nbsp;<h2>2023 legislative agenda goals</h2>The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce's legislative agenda focuses&nbsp;on eight priorities for regional growth, economic development, community health, and overall quality of life for Salina and the area. They are listed below.-Drive regional success and economic development -Strengthen a skilled workforce -Establish affordable, quality housing -Fortify transportation -Invest in education -Enhance quaity of life and community amenities -Ensure affordable healthcare and mental health resources -Secure access to early childhood programs<h2>K-AIRES project proposal, Tyrell Corporation</h2>One of the largest items on the chamber's agenda is the&nbsp;Kansas Advanced Immersive Research for Emergent Systems Center (K-AIRES) project with Tyrell Corporation and their commercial operation<a href="https://pistudios.com/">, Pure Imagination Studios</a>, and the Salina Airport Authority."This is really exciting. There's just a lot of innovation that's happening over at Kansas State University Salina anyway, definitely with the big money that General Atomics is giving to the organization and all of the capital improvements that they're doing over there," Duxler said.&nbsp;Duxler said a competitive recruitment package from the state is required to secure Tyrell’s relocation to Kansas. The comprehensive package should include efforts to address facility needs, equipment, technology, and workforce and staffing incentives to successfully compete with the other states courting the company (New Mexico and California)."If we are able, through this legislative agenda, and through talking to our legislators and our administration at the governor's office-incentivizing this company Tyrell to come in and essentially start, the Kansas State University campus there at the airport authority, it would mean a lot for Kansas State University and the airport authority, not only in jobs creation, but also just putting Salina on the map in terms of AI and those sorts of technologies."Duxler said by attracting Tyrell Corporation to Kansas and specifically the Salina area, an estimated creation of 100 new jobs at an average salary of $150,000 per year ($72 per hour) within five&nbsp;years. The company will also see an ability to attract Fortune 100 technology companies to utilize the K-AIRES and invest in Kansas.According to the proposal, the K-AIRES center will bring a heightened focus on aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and defense. Anchoring the south side of K-State Salina's Innovation Ramp, the K-AIRES Center will couple K-State Salina's existing expertise in crewed aviation, non-crewed aircraft systems, robotics, automation, and machine learning with Tyrell Corporation’s strength and reputation in immersive environments and simulated training and entertainment.&nbsp;<h2>West Magnolia Road project</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675098631560.png" alt="The location of West Magnolia Road the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking state funds for is located between I-135 and the K-State Salina campus.&nbsp; Photo courtesy, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>The location of West Magnolia Road the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking state funds for is located between I-135 and the K-State Salina campus.&nbsp; Photo courtesy, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>Another project the chamber has its sights set on is improving the section of West Magnolia Road located between&nbsp;between Interstate 135 and the K-State Salina campus.&nbsp;"That section of the road is just very basic doesn't have a lot of access for multimodal biking, walking, there's not a great connector there, along Magnolia," Duxler said. "So trying to create something that helps connect the campus to the rest of the community and vice versa. Which means adding those sort of bike trail walking trail, being able to do lighting, public art, and those sorts of things that just make it a more attractive and connected."&nbsp;The City of Salina is seeking $10 million for one mile of improvements to West Magnolia Road. In addition, a new residential subdivision is expected to be developed in this area that will add over 12,000 trips a day.&nbsp; The chamber views the West Magnolia road improvements as necessary to connect students, residents, employees, airline passengers, members of the military, businesses, and industries throughout the City and region. Funding would specifically address:-Upgrading 4,200 feet of three-lane roadway with medians and turn lanes. -10 foot hike and bike trail (south side) -5 foot sidewalk (north side). -Street lighting, landscaping, public art. -Bridge and culvert replacements. -Channel realignment. -Railroad crossing widening and improvements<h2>Mental health</h2>A report was released last year listing Kansas as 51st in the nation, following the District of Columbia, when it came to access to mental health resources.Even Governor Laura Kelly addressed the ongoing crisis in her recent State of the State address, saying that her budget would expand Mental Health Intervention Teams in Kansas schools, provide funding for adult psychiatric services in the Wichita area and funding to address the shortage of mental health workers across the state.Duxler said that local entities like Central Kansas Mental Health and the Salina Police Department are teaming up to better respond to those in crisis."Here in Salina the critical intervention team is starting up soon," Duxler said. "These critical mental health responders will go out with law enforcement on calls that seem to seek or actively say they're seeking some mental health service and help law enforcement with what they're be able to do. It also keeps people out of getting engaged in the criminal justice system, when they maybe don't need to be."&nbsp;<h2>Strategizing for success</h2>&nbsp;Before stepping up as interim leader of the chamber, Duxler worked as the economic and workforce development director for the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. In her previous role, she lead the chamber's efforts to attract new business expansions in the Salina area, meet labor demands, and oversee the Imagine Salina program."So a lot of what I do at the chamber is both economic development that's with entrepreneurship and helping startups and expansions as well as that workforce piece, which is encompasses a lot because we're talking housing, we're talking childcare, we're talking all sorts of different things that influence our ability to keep and retain workforce," Duxler said.&nbsp;Duxler said that the board of directors is "definitely taking a hard look " at what the skill set of the next chamber leader should look like."One of the big things that we're having conversations about is relevancy. As a member organization, maintaining our relevancy in the community, and to the activities we're doing is important," Duxler said. "we are going to be surveying our membership, asking them about the importance of the activities we do, what they'd like to see, what they'd like for us to do more of, versus things that maybe aren't as important to them."&nbsp;Duxler said that a job posting for CEO/president would be made in the coming months.&nbsp;

Salina Area Chamber of Commerce interim president and CEO gives update

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher This past weekend was my favorite Kansas Farm Bureau event, the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) Conference. I am going to let you in on a secret, I am over 35. I know you are all shocked, and I am a bit surprised they still let me through the doors. I guess they either take pity on me or they let me in because I am on the state board of directors. Either way I am always happy to sneak in and get my batteries recharged. I think I have figured out the fountain of youth, and it is to spend time around this outstanding group of young farmers, ranchers, agribusiness people and students. Their enthusiasm and energy is contagious, even for an old guy several years past the YF&amp;R expiration date. The conference itself is outstanding. The keynote speakers and information shared is some of the best and most timely for those of us in agriculture. Then there are the breakout sessions and workshops, again some of the leading experts in their fields and cutting edge information. Include that with contests showcasing our industry’s best and brightest along with social events and you have a great weekend. The best part is it is planned, coordinated and put on by the Young Farmer and Rancher committee, the best and brightest members 35 and younger in Kansas Farm Bureau. Does it sound like I am bragging? I hope so because I am. We hear all the time about the aging agriculture industry and often pundits wonder where we are headed. Will our producers age out? Will we be able to feed a growing, hungry population? Spend a weekend at the Young Farmer and Rancher Conference and you know we will be in good hands. Spending time with this group will renew your faith in the future. I love listening to the conversations and hearing the new ideas and enthusiasm. This conference was crucial for Jennifer and I as we started our journey in agriculture. So many times you feel alone and it seems like no one understands what you are going through. Then you come to your first YF&amp;R Conference and find out there are many others going through the same trials and tribulations. The networking in the hallways and the friendships you make over the weekend are truly the most valuable part of the conference. We still have friendships that were forged during this conference. That is why each year I look forward to this weekend. I must admit I am being a little selfish because I know I get more out of it than I give to the participants I meet. This old guy is transformed back into a time when anything was possible and my career was ahead of me. I wish I could bottle the excitement and energy up for all of you, it is something we all need these days. I can’t do that, but I can go forth knowing agriculture is in good hands.

"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&nbsp;County farmer and rancher This past weekend was my favorite Kansas Farm Bureau event, the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) Conference. I am going to let you in on a secret, I am over 35. I know you are all shocked, and I am a bit surprised they still let me through the doors. I guess they either take pity on me or they let me in because I am on the state board of directors. Either way I am always happy to sneak in and get my batteries recharged. I think I have figured out the fountain of youth, and it is to spend time around this outstanding group of young farmers, ranchers, agribusiness people and students. Their enthusiasm and energy is contagious, even for an old guy several years past the YF&amp;R expiration date. The conference itself is outstanding. The keynote speakers and information shared is some of the best and most timely for those of us in agriculture. Then there are the breakout sessions and workshops, again some of the leading experts in their fields and cutting edge information. Include that with contests showcasing our industry’s best and brightest along with social events and you have a great weekend. The best part is it is planned, coordinated and put on by the Young Farmer and Rancher committee, the best and brightest members 35 and younger in Kansas Farm Bureau. Does it sound like I am bragging? I hope so because I am. We hear all the time about the aging agriculture industry and often pundits wonder where we are headed. Will our producers age out? Will we be able to feed a growing, hungry population? Spend a weekend at the Young Farmer and Rancher Conference and you know we will be in good hands. Spending time with this group will renew your faith in the future. I love listening to the conversations and hearing the new ideas and enthusiasm. This conference was crucial for Jennifer and I as we started our journey in agriculture. So many times you feel alone and it seems like no one understands what you are going through. Then you come to your first YF&amp;R Conference and find out there are many others going through the same trials and tribulations. The networking in the hallways and the friendships you make over the weekend are truly the most valuable part of the conference. We still have friendships that were forged during this conference. That is why each year I look forward to this weekend. I must admit I am being a little selfish because I know I get more out of it than I give to the participants I meet. This old guy is transformed back into a time when anything was possible and my career was ahead of me. I wish I could bottle the excitement and energy up for all of you, it is something we all need these days. I can’t do that, but I can go forth knowing agriculture is in good hands."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.

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