Well, folks, it’s somehow January already. And you know what that means: training your brain to write 2023 instead of 2022 on everything. It also means the season of resolutions is officially upon us.

Maybe you’re someone who enjoys a good reset or “wellness check” at the start of a new year. (If that’s you, I bet you’re also one of those people who runs 5Ks on Thanksgiving—good for you, but the rest of us aren’t interested in joining, so please don’t ask.) I see your health goals, and I raise you . . . a&nbsp;financial&nbsp;fitness assessment!

That’s right, my friends: New Year’s is the perfect time to check in on the growth of your investments. Let’s talk about what the stock market saw in 2022, what you can expect in 2023, and what it all means for you and your money.

In 2022, there were highs, there were lows, there were stretches in between that were more underwhelming than your annual Christmas phone call with Uncle Bob . . . But to sum it up, the stock market took a dip last year. A big dip. According to a December Forbes report, “the S&amp;P 500 remains down nearly 15% year to date, and it’s on track for its worst annual return since 2008, the year of the global financial crisis.”

Yikes! Sounds kind of harsh, doesn’t it? But no need to trauma dump&nbsp;all&nbsp;your thoughts and feelings about this on Facebook just yet. The good news is that in recent months, there has been a steady percentage increase. The stock market hit its lowest point of the year on September 30, 2022, but it’s been on a gradual incline ever since. And when it comes to investing, December really is the most wonderful time of the year—we can almost always count on holiday spending to raise the bar (literally). As expected, in early December, the market reached its highest peak since the late September low. Now that’s what I call a tiny Christmas miracle.

Of course, your last-minute shopping spree for Ugg boots (which are somehow back on trend) isn’t the only thing affecting the economy. Other factors, like inflation, interest rates, the housing market and unemployment numbers, also contribute to yearly investment outcomes.

In fact, Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell spoke on this back in August saying, “While higher interest rates, slower growth, and softer labor market conditions will bring down inflation, they will also bring some pain to households and businesses. These are the unfortunate costs of reducing inflation.”

In September, the month following his remarks, the stock market hit that infamous low we talked about earlier.

Now, I don’t know about you, but all of these unpredictable factors can sometimes make me feel like the sky is falling. (That’s not the only thing I have in common with Chicken Little, but let’s keep my height out of this.) Still, the most important thing to remember is that stock market payoff is a long-term game. Slow and steady wins the investing race. And if you hares out there don’t want to believe this tortoise, there’s plenty of data to back me up.

For example, when Ramsey Solutions conducted The National Study of Millionaires, more than 10,000 millionaires were surveyed, and precisely&nbsp;zero&nbsp;listed single stock investments as one of their top three wealth-building tools. Instead, 8 out of 10 millionaires said they were able to reach their million-dollar net worth through employer-sponsored retirement programs, like a 401(k) or Roth IRA match.

If you take advantage of benefits like this and consistently invest in diverse, growth stock mutual funds, your assets are proven to grow significantly by the time you reach retirement. Woody has Buzz, Monica has Rachel, and now you have compound interest as your long-term, loyal bestie.

The simple fact is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/how-does-stock-market-work" target="_blank">the stock market</a>&nbsp;is (and historically has been) the most reliable way to build wealth over time. Tracking your investment progress year to year is smart, but don’t forget to keep your eye on the end goal. No matter what the levels are looking like in the moment, the reality is that investing early and consistently sticking with it will bring huge returns in the long run&nbsp;every time. And I’ve never been much of an athlete, but that’s one race anyone can win!

George Kamelis a personal finance expert with a countercultural approach to money. He’s the host of The Fine Print podcast and The EntreLeadership Podcast on the Ramsey Network. Since 2013, George has served at Ramsey Solutions, where his goal is to help people spend less, save more, and avoid consumer traps so they can make the most of their money. Follow George on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeKamel?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgekamel/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialGeorgeKamel" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or find out more about him online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personalities" target="_blank">ramseysolutions.com/personalities</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636603961231.jpeg" alt="George Kamel" />
 <figcaption>George Kamel</figcaption>
 </figure>By GEORGE KAMELWell, folks, it’s somehow January already. And you know what that means: training your brain to write 2023 instead of 2022 on everything. It also means the season of resolutions is officially upon us.Maybe you’re someone who enjoys a good reset or “wellness check” at the start of a new year. (If that’s you, I bet you’re also one of those people who runs 5Ks on Thanksgiving—good for you, but the rest of us aren’t interested in joining, so please don’t ask.) I see your health goals, and I raise you . . . a&nbsp;financial&nbsp;fitness assessment!That’s right, my friends: New Year’s is the perfect time to check in on the growth of your investments. Let’s talk about what the stock market saw in 2022, what you can expect in 2023, and what it all means for you and your money.In 2022, there were highs, there were lows, there were stretches in between that were more underwhelming than your annual Christmas phone call with Uncle Bob . . . But to sum it up, the stock market took a dip last year. A big dip. According to a December Forbes report, “the S&amp;P 500 remains down nearly 15% year to date, and it’s on track for its worst annual return since 2008, the year of the global financial crisis.”Yikes! Sounds kind of harsh, doesn’t it? But no need to trauma dump&nbsp;all&nbsp;your thoughts and feelings about this on Facebook just yet. The good news is that in recent months, there has been a steady percentage increase. The stock market hit its lowest point of the year on September 30, 2022, but it’s been on a gradual incline ever since. And when it comes to investing, December really is the most wonderful time of the year—we can almost always count on holiday spending to raise the bar (literally). As expected, in early December, the market reached its highest peak since the late September low. Now that’s what I call a tiny Christmas miracle.Of course, your last-minute shopping spree for Ugg boots (which are somehow back on trend) isn’t the only thing affecting the economy. Other factors, like inflation, interest rates, the housing market and unemployment numbers, also contribute to yearly investment outcomes.In fact, Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell spoke on this back in August saying, “While higher interest rates, slower growth, and softer labor market conditions will bring down inflation, they will also bring some pain to households and businesses. These are the unfortunate costs of reducing inflation.”In September, the month following his remarks, the stock market hit that infamous low we talked about earlier.Now, I don’t know about you, but all of these unpredictable factors can sometimes make me feel like the sky is falling. (That’s not the only thing I have in common with Chicken Little, but let’s keep my height out of this.) Still, the most important thing to remember is that stock market payoff is a long-term game. Slow and steady wins the investing race. And if you hares out there don’t want to believe this tortoise, there’s plenty of data to back me up.For example, when Ramsey Solutions conducted The National Study of Millionaires, more than 10,000 millionaires were surveyed, and precisely&nbsp;zero&nbsp;listed single stock investments as one of their top three wealth-building tools. Instead, 8 out of 10 millionaires said they were able to reach their million-dollar net worth through employer-sponsored retirement programs, like a 401(k) or Roth IRA match.If you take advantage of benefits like this and consistently invest in diverse, growth stock mutual funds, your assets are proven to grow significantly by the time you reach retirement. Woody has Buzz, Monica has Rachel, and now you have compound interest as your long-term, loyal bestie.The simple fact is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/how-does-stock-market-work" target="_blank">the stock market</a>&nbsp;is (and historically has been) the most reliable way to build wealth over time. Tracking your investment progress year to year is smart, but don’t forget to keep your eye on the end goal. No matter what the levels are looking like in the moment, the reality is that investing early and consistently sticking with it will bring huge returns in the long run&nbsp;every time. And I’ve never been much of an athlete, but that’s one race anyone can win!George Kamelis a personal finance expert with a countercultural approach to money. He’s the host of The Fine Print podcast and The EntreLeadership Podcast on the Ramsey Network. Since 2013, George has served at Ramsey Solutions, where his goal is to help people spend less, save more, and avoid consumer traps so they can make the most of their money. Follow George on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeKamel?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgekamel/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialGeorgeKamel" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or find out more about him online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personalities" target="_blank">ramseysolutions.com/personalities</a>.

KAMEL: Investment check-in; Will you see stocks success in 2023? 

Today is Friday, Jan. 6, the sixth day of 2023. There are 359 days left in the year.

On Jan. 6, 2021, supporters of President Donald Trump, fueled by his false claims of a stolen election, assaulted police and smashed their way into the Capitol to interrupt the certification of Democrat Joe Biden's victory, forcing lawmakers into hiding; most of the rioters had come from a nearby rally where Trump urged them to "fight like hell." A Trump supporter, Ashli Babbitt, was shot and killed by a police officer as she tried to breach a barricaded doorway inside the Capitol. Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, injured while confronting the rioters, suffered a stroke the next day and died from natural causes, the Washington, D.C., medical examiner's office said. (In the weeks that followed, four of the officers who responded to the riot took their own lives.) Congress reconvened hours later to finish certifying the election result.

In 1412, tradition holds that Joan of Arc was born this day in Domremy.

In 1838, Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail gave the first successful public demonstration of their telegraph in Morristown, New Jersey.

In 1912, New Mexico became the 47th state.

In 1919, the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, died in Oyster Bay, New York, at age 60.

In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in his State of the Union address, outlined a goal of "Four Freedoms": Freedom of speech and expression; the freedom of people to worship God in their own way; freedom from want; freedom from fear.

In 1974, year-round daylight saving time began in the United States on a trial basis as a fuel-saving measure in response to the OPEC oil embargo.

In 1982, truck driver William G. Bonin was convicted in Los Angeles of 10 of the "Freeway Killer" slayings of young men and boys. (Bonin was later convicted of four other killings; he was executed in 1996.)

In 1994, figure skater Nancy Kerrigan was clubbed on the leg by an assailant at Detroit's Cobo Arena; four men, including the ex-husband of Kerrigan's rival, Tonya Harding, went to prison for their roles in the attack. (Harding pleaded guilty to conspiracy to hinder prosecution, but denied any advance knowledge about the assault.)

In 2001, with Vice President Al Gore presiding in his capacity as president of the Senate, Congress formally certified George W. Bush the winner of the bitterly contested 2000 presidential election.

In 2005, former Ku Klux Klan leader Edgar Ray Killen was arrested on murder charges 41 years after three civil rights workers were slain in Mississippi. (Killen was later convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 60 years in prison; he died in prison in 2018.)

In 2006, velvet-voiced singer Lou Rawls died in Los Angeles at age 72.

In 2020, throngs of Iranians attended the funeral of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, who'd been killed in a U.S. airstrike in Iraq; Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei wept while praying over the casket. Former White House national security adviser John Bolton said he was "prepared to testify" if subpoenaed by the Senate in its impeachment trial of President Donald Trump. (The Senate voted against calling witnesses.)

Ten years ago: In a video posted on the Internet, al-Qaida's American-born spokesman, Adam Gadahn, urged fighters to meet President George W. Bush with bombs during his upcoming Mideast visit. Mikhail Saakashvili was declared winner of a second term as Georgia's president.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama returned to Washington after a winter vacation in Hawaii that was interrupted by the "fiscal cliff" crisis. In his first public speech in six months, a defiant Syrian President Bashar Assad rallied a cheering crowd to fight the uprising against his authoritarian rule, dismissing any chance of dialogue with what he called "murderous criminals." The NHL and the players' association agreed on a tentative pact to end a 113-day lockout.

One year ago: On the anniversary of the deadly assault on the U.S. Capitol, President Joe Biden forcefully blamed Donald Trump and his supporters for holding a "dagger at the throat of democracy" with election lies that sparked the attack; Biden spoke in the Capitol's ornate Statuary Hall, where rioters had laid siege, and called on Americans to remember what they saw on Jan. 6 with their own eyes, amid what he said were efforts of Trump supporters to "rewrite history." Actor Sidney Poitier died at his Los Angeles home at 94; he was the first Black actor to win an Oscar for best lead performance and the first to be a top box-office draw. Peter Bogdanovich, director of 1970s black-and-white classics including "The Last Picture Show" and "Paper Moon," died in Los Angeles at 82.

Today's Birthdays: Country musician Joey Miskulin (Riders in the Sky) is 74. Former FBI director Louis Freeh is 73. Rock singer-musician Kim Wilson (The Fabulous Thunderbirds) is 72. Singer Jett Williams is 70. Actor-comedian Rowan Atkinson is 68. World Golf Hall of Famer Nancy Lopez is 66. Actor Scott Bryce is 65. R&amp;B singer Kathy Sledge is 64. TV chef Nigella Lawson is 63. R&amp;B singer Eric Williams (BLACKstreet) is 63. Actor Norman Reedus is 54. Food writer and blogger Ree Drummond is 54. TV personality Julie Chen is 53. Actor Danny Pintauro (TV: "Who's the Boss?") is 47. Actor Cristela Alonzo is 44. Actor Rinko Kikuchi is 42. Actor Eddie Redmayne is 41. Retired NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas is 41. Actor-comedian Kate McKinnon is 39. Actor Diona Reasonover is 39. Rock singer Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) is 37.

<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 Friday, Jan. 6, the sixth day of 2023. There are 359 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Jan. 6, 2021, supporters of President Donald Trump, fueled by his false claims of a stolen election, assaulted police and smashed their way into the Capitol to interrupt the certification of Democrat Joe Biden's victory, forcing lawmakers into hiding; most of the rioters had come from a nearby rally where Trump urged them to "fight like hell." A Trump supporter, Ashli Babbitt, was shot and killed by a police officer as she tried to breach a barricaded doorway inside the Capitol. Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, injured while confronting the rioters, suffered a stroke the next day and died from natural causes, the Washington, D.C., medical examiner's office said. (In the weeks that followed, four of the officers who responded to the riot took their own lives.) Congress reconvened hours later to finish certifying the election result.On this date:In 1412, tradition holds that Joan of Arc was born this day in Domremy.In 1838, Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail gave the first successful public demonstration of their telegraph in Morristown, New Jersey.In 1912, New Mexico became the 47th state.In 1919, the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, died in Oyster Bay, New York, at age 60.In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in his State of the Union address, outlined a goal of "Four Freedoms": Freedom of speech and expression; the freedom of people to worship God in their own way; freedom from want; freedom from fear.In 1974, year-round daylight saving time began in the United States on a trial basis as a fuel-saving measure in response to the OPEC oil embargo.In 1982, truck driver William G. Bonin was convicted in Los Angeles of 10 of the "Freeway Killer" slayings of young men and boys. (Bonin was later convicted of four other killings; he was executed in 1996.)In 1994, figure skater Nancy Kerrigan was clubbed on the leg by an assailant at Detroit's Cobo Arena; four men, including the ex-husband of Kerrigan's rival, Tonya Harding, went to prison for their roles in the attack. (Harding pleaded guilty to conspiracy to hinder prosecution, but denied any advance knowledge about the assault.)In 2001, with Vice President Al Gore presiding in his capacity as president of the Senate, Congress formally certified George W. Bush the winner of the bitterly contested 2000 presidential election.In 2005, former Ku Klux Klan leader Edgar Ray Killen was arrested on murder charges 41 years after three civil rights workers were slain in Mississippi. (Killen was later convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 60 years in prison; he died in prison in 2018.)In 2006, velvet-voiced singer Lou Rawls died in Los Angeles at age 72.In 2020, throngs of Iranians attended the funeral of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, who'd been killed in a U.S. airstrike in Iraq; Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei wept while praying over the casket. Former White House national security adviser John Bolton said he was "prepared to testify" if subpoenaed by the Senate in its impeachment trial of President Donald Trump. (The Senate voted against calling witnesses.)Ten years ago: In a video posted on the Internet, al-Qaida's American-born spokesman, Adam Gadahn, urged fighters to meet President George W. Bush with bombs during his upcoming Mideast visit. Mikhail Saakashvili was declared winner of a second term as Georgia's president.Five years ago: President Barack Obama returned to Washington after a winter vacation in Hawaii that was interrupted by the "fiscal cliff" crisis. In his first public speech in six months, a defiant Syrian President Bashar Assad rallied a cheering crowd to fight the uprising against his authoritarian rule, dismissing any chance of dialogue with what he called "murderous criminals." The NHL and the players' association agreed on a tentative pact to end a 113-day lockout.One year ago: On the anniversary of the deadly assault on the U.S. Capitol, President Joe Biden forcefully blamed Donald Trump and his supporters for holding a "dagger at the throat of democracy" with election lies that sparked the attack; Biden spoke in the Capitol's ornate Statuary Hall, where rioters had laid siege, and called on Americans to remember what they saw on Jan. 6 with their own eyes, amid what he said were efforts of Trump supporters to "rewrite history." Actor Sidney Poitier died at his Los Angeles home at 94; he was the first Black actor to win an Oscar for best lead performance and the first to be a top box-office draw. Peter Bogdanovich, director of 1970s black-and-white classics including "The Last Picture Show" and "Paper Moon," died in Los Angeles at 82.Today's Birthdays: Country musician Joey Miskulin (Riders in the Sky) is 74. Former FBI director Louis Freeh is 73. Rock singer-musician Kim Wilson (The Fabulous Thunderbirds) is 72. Singer Jett Williams is 70. Actor-comedian Rowan Atkinson is 68. World Golf Hall of Famer Nancy Lopez is 66. Actor Scott Bryce is 65. R&amp;B singer Kathy Sledge is 64. TV chef Nigella Lawson is 63. R&amp;B singer Eric Williams (BLACKstreet) is 63. Actor Norman Reedus is 54. Food writer and blogger Ree Drummond is 54. TV personality Julie Chen is 53. Actor Danny Pintauro (TV: "Who's the Boss?") is 47. Actor Cristela Alonzo is 44. Actor Rinko Kikuchi is 42. Actor Eddie Redmayne is 41. Retired NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas is 41. Actor-comedian Kate McKinnon is 39. Actor Diona Reasonover is 39. Rock singer Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) is 37.

Today in History - Jan. 6

LEAVENWORTH - The University of Saint Mary celebrated the achievements of the fall graduates of the 2022-2023 academic year during USM’s Fall Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 17, in McGilley Field House on USM's Leavenworth Campus. The Dec. 17 event marked the university's first Fall Commencement ceremony in modern history, and celebrated the graduation of dozens of USM undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. The graduates hail from coast to coast and international destinations.&nbsp;

Among the graduates was Salina's&nbsp;Jordan Nicole Salas, who earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. The ceremonies featured performances by the USM Community Band and Concert Chorale. A student reflection will be offered by the DPT program’s Paula Walsh, of Lansing. The University of Saint Mary is a Catholic co-educational applied liberal arts university founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth.&nbsp;

University of Saint MaryLEAVENWORTH - The University of Saint Mary celebrated the achievements of the fall graduates of the 2022-2023 academic year during USM’s Fall Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 17, in McGilley Field House on USM's Leavenworth Campus. The Dec. 17 event marked the university's first Fall Commencement ceremony in modern history, and celebrated the graduation of dozens of USM undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. The graduates hail from coast to coast and international destinations.&nbsp;Among the graduates was Salina's&nbsp;Jordan Nicole Salas, who earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. The ceremonies featured performances by the USM Community Band and Concert Chorale. A student reflection will be offered by the DPT program’s Paula Walsh, of Lansing. The University of Saint Mary is a Catholic co-educational applied liberal arts university founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth.&nbsp;

Salina's Salas earns degree from University of Saint Mary

Patchy light freezing drizzle possible overnight tonight

The Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina, seeks volunteers to help with Kansas Days. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillMuseum/">Smoky Hill Museum Facebook page</a>:

The Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina, seeks volunteers to help with Kansas Days. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillMuseum/">Smoky Hill Museum Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSmokyHillMuseum%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02zwh4NVsq1C5jGPV4DWr2ciFHRECHuaMp6gHEBxRwY5k349Vx3uDzwVpvyueqfBYfl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="692" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Salina's Smoky Hill Museum seeks volunteers

I’ve got the perfect New Year’s resolution for Kansas
legislators: no more lobbyist-authored bills.

Last year,
Kansas lawmaking was marked by two dramatic “fails,” both involving
lobbyist-authored acts.&nbsp; One of them
failed, the other passed, and both were problematic.

First came
anti-abortion “Value Them Both” amendment, sent to the voters by the
Legislature and rejected by 18 percentage points in August.&nbsp; Closely watched nationally and even overseas,
the campaign and contained many controversies, including its confusing ballot
language.&nbsp; “VTB” opponents even suggested
that the language was deliberately confusing—highly legalistic and not
clear at all about the amendment’s intent, which was to authorize the Kansas
Legislature to criminalize abortion in nearly all circumstances, which they had
the votes and the plans to do, perhaps even calling themselves into special
session right after the vote, had it passed.

Oddly, the
amendment itself was not written by the Kansas Legislative Research Department
(KLRD).&nbsp; Despite making major changes to
the state constitution, legislators allowed two anti-abortion interest groups
to write the ballot language.&nbsp; By
contrast, the staff of the KLRD are nonpartisan professionals.&nbsp; The bills, bill summaries and other proposals
they write are not based upon their own, personal political views.&nbsp; Rather, KLRD staff draft legislation as
requested by legislators.&nbsp; Not lobbyists
or politicians, KLRD are experienced experts in the state constitution,
existing federal, state and local laws, court rulings, laws in other states,
and other background needed to write good legislation.&nbsp; With so much at stake this summer, why did
the legislators ignore the KLRD and have interest groups draft the amendment
instead?

Lobbyist-authored
bills cause even more problems when they pass.&nbsp;
Last year’s authorization of sports betting illustrates this
perfectly.&nbsp; An exposé by the New York
Times illustrated these problems.&nbsp;
Not only were key legislators showed with gifts, but a provision was
slipped into the provision that has resulted in Kansans reaping almost none of
the promised tax revenue so far.&nbsp; This
“carry over” provision allows the gambling companies to write off the costs of
offering free bets to get new customers hooked on their product.&nbsp; It also allows them to carry forth these
losses to future years.&nbsp; The NYT reporter
found that the whole bill was in fact written by the gambling industry.&nbsp; Had it been drafted by the KLRD, they easily
could have red-flagged this loophole.&nbsp; In
September and October, the two largest online sports betting providers paid
less than $42,000 in state taxes on $247 million of activity.&nbsp; This figure started to rise later in the
year, but is still paltry compared to what the state could have collected.&nbsp; A similar bill failed to pass in Missouri—
not due to the public interest, but because of infighting among pro-betting
interest groups.

Speaking of
Missouri, another bill that passed there last year illustrates the depths to
which these lobbyist-authored bills can sink.&nbsp;
By making it a crime to sleep on public land without authorization,
Missouri essentially criminalized homelessness—without providing any additional
support for affordable housing.&nbsp; This
awful bill was literally cut and pasted off the Internet by its
sponsor—and the interest group that posted it was not even in-state.

Kansas and other
states employ nonpartisan professionals to draft legislation, for a
reason.&nbsp; The debacles here and in
neighboring states last year all point to the same conclusion:&nbsp; legislators should resolve right now not to
propose or pass any lobbyist-written legislation in 2023 or afterwards.

Michael A. Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael A. Smith" />
 <figcaption>Michael A. Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By Michael A. SmithI’ve got the perfect New Year’s resolution for Kansas
legislators: no more lobbyist-authored bills.Last year,
Kansas lawmaking was marked by two dramatic “fails,” both involving
lobbyist-authored acts.&nbsp; One of them
failed, the other passed, and both were problematic.First came
anti-abortion “Value Them Both” amendment, sent to the voters by the
Legislature and rejected by 18 percentage points in August.&nbsp; Closely watched nationally and even overseas,
the campaign and contained many controversies, including its confusing ballot
language.&nbsp; “VTB” opponents even suggested
that the language was deliberately confusing—highly legalistic and not
clear at all about the amendment’s intent, which was to authorize the Kansas
Legislature to criminalize abortion in nearly all circumstances, which they had
the votes and the plans to do, perhaps even calling themselves into special
session right after the vote, had it passed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Oddly, the
amendment itself was not written by the Kansas Legislative Research Department
(KLRD).&nbsp; Despite making major changes to
the state constitution, legislators allowed two anti-abortion interest groups
to write the ballot language.&nbsp; By
contrast, the staff of the KLRD are nonpartisan professionals.&nbsp; The bills, bill summaries and other proposals
they write are not based upon their own, personal political views.&nbsp; Rather, KLRD staff draft legislation as
requested by legislators.&nbsp; Not lobbyists
or politicians, KLRD are experienced experts in the state constitution,
existing federal, state and local laws, court rulings, laws in other states,
and other background needed to write good legislation.&nbsp; With so much at stake this summer, why did
the legislators ignore the KLRD and have interest groups draft the amendment
instead?Lobbyist-authored
bills cause even more problems when they pass.&nbsp;
Last year’s authorization of sports betting illustrates this
perfectly.&nbsp; An exposé by the New York
Times illustrated these problems.&nbsp;
Not only were key legislators showed with gifts, but a provision was
slipped into the provision that has resulted in Kansans reaping almost none of
the promised tax revenue so far.&nbsp; This
“carry over” provision allows the gambling companies to write off the costs of
offering free bets to get new customers hooked on their product.&nbsp; It also allows them to carry forth these
losses to future years.&nbsp; The NYT reporter
found that the whole bill was in fact written by the gambling industry.&nbsp; Had it been drafted by the KLRD, they easily
could have red-flagged this loophole.&nbsp; In
September and October, the two largest online sports betting providers paid
less than $42,000 in state taxes on $247 million of activity.&nbsp; This figure started to rise later in the
year, but is still paltry compared to what the state could have collected.&nbsp; A similar bill failed to pass in Missouri—
not due to the public interest, but because of infighting among pro-betting
interest groups.Speaking of
Missouri, another bill that passed there last year illustrates the depths to
which these lobbyist-authored bills can sink.&nbsp;
By making it a crime to sleep on public land without authorization,
Missouri essentially criminalized homelessness—without providing any additional
support for affordable housing.&nbsp; This
awful bill was literally cut and pasted off the Internet by its
sponsor—and the interest group that posted it was not even in-state.Kansas and other
states employ nonpartisan professionals to draft legislation, for a
reason.&nbsp; The debacles here and in
neighboring states last year all point to the same conclusion:&nbsp; legislators should resolve right now not to
propose or pass any lobbyist-written legislation in 2023 or afterwards.Michael A. Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: No more lobbyist-written bills

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Police are looking for the person who allegedly pointed a knife at another man in downtown Salina Wednesday afternoon.

Salina Police Lieutenant Jim Feldman said this morning a man reported that while he was getting into his vehicle in the 100 block of N. Seventh Street, he was approached by a bald Black man in his mid-50s who asked for cigarettes and pointed a knife at him. The Black man was wearing dark clothing and carrying a duffle bag.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:25 p.m. Wednesday.

When the man said he didn't have any cigarettes, the Black man left.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for the person who allegedly pointed a knife at another man in downtown Salina Wednesday afternoon.Salina Police Lieutenant Jim Feldman said this morning a man reported that while he was getting into his vehicle in the 100 block of N. Seventh Street, he was approached by a bald Black man in his mid-50s who asked for cigarettes and pointed a knife at him. The Black man was wearing dark clothing and carrying a duffle bag.The incident occurred at approximately 4:25 p.m. Wednesday.When the man said he didn't have any cigarettes, the Black man left.

Alleged knife-wielding cigarette seeker sought by Salina police

The Tammy Walker Cancer Center at Salina Regional Health Center announced that it has been named a 2022 Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award winner by Press Ganey, the global leader in healthcare experience solutions and services. 

This award is part of Press Ganey’s annual ranking of the top hospitals and health systems in the country, according to performance in patient experience.

As a winner of the Press Ganey Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award, Tammy Walker Cancer Center has ranked in the top 5% of healthcare providers in delivering patient experience over a minimum of three consecutive years. Press Ganey works with more than 41,000 healthcare facilities in its mission to reduce patient suffering and enhance caregiver resilience to improve the overall safety, quality and experience of care.

“Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the United States,” said Joel Phelps, president/CEO at Salina Regional Health Center. “We are very fortunate to have such a great team of professionals at Tammy Walker Cancer Center that provides excellence in care to patients in north central Kansas. This award is an example of the quality of team members who work at Tammy Walker Cancer Center.”

“By putting their patients and workforce first each and every day, Tammy Walker Cancer Center is demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the communities they serve,” said Patrick T. Ryan, chairman and chief executive officer, Press Ganey. “The caregivers at Tammy Walker Cancer Center have inspired us with the compassion, empathy and human connection they bring to the clinical healthcare setting. We are honored to partner with them as we celebrate their achievement.”

The Tammy Walker Cancer Center provides the latest cancer fighting technology, diagnostic, educational and support services including rehabilitation, nutritional and dietary support, social work, chaplaincy, counseling and support groups, virtual healthcare and appearance services. Tammy Walker Cancer Center's Radiation Oncology and Medical Oncology hold prestigious cancer program accreditations through the American College of Radiation Oncology and by the American Society of Clinical Oncologists’ Quality Oncology Practices Initiatives (QOPI). 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666924237264.jpeg" alt="The Tammy Walker Cancer Center staff. Photo courtesy SRHC" />
 <figcaption>The Tammy Walker Cancer Center staff. Photo courtesy SRHC</figcaption>
 </figure>SRHCThe Tammy Walker Cancer Center at Salina Regional Health Center announced that it has been named a 2022 Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award winner by Press Ganey, the global leader in healthcare experience solutions and services. This award is part of Press Ganey’s annual ranking of the top hospitals and health systems in the country, according to performance in patient experience.As a winner of the Press Ganey Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award, Tammy Walker Cancer Center has ranked in the top 5% of healthcare providers in delivering patient experience over a minimum of three consecutive years. Press Ganey works with more than 41,000 healthcare facilities in its mission to reduce patient suffering and enhance caregiver resilience to improve the overall safety, quality and experience of care.“Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the United States,” said Joel Phelps, president/CEO at Salina Regional Health Center. “We are very fortunate to have such a great team of professionals at Tammy Walker Cancer Center that provides excellence in care to patients in north central Kansas. This award is an example of the quality of team members who work at Tammy Walker Cancer Center.”“By putting their patients and workforce first each and every day, Tammy Walker Cancer Center is demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the communities they serve,” said Patrick T. Ryan, chairman and chief executive officer, Press Ganey. “The caregivers at Tammy Walker Cancer Center have inspired us with the compassion, empathy and human connection they bring to the clinical healthcare setting. We are honored to partner with them as we celebrate their achievement.”The Tammy Walker Cancer Center provides the latest cancer fighting technology, diagnostic, educational and support services including rehabilitation, nutritional and dietary support, social work, chaplaincy, counseling and support groups, virtual healthcare and appearance services. Tammy Walker Cancer Center's Radiation Oncology and Medical Oncology hold prestigious cancer program accreditations through the American College of Radiation Oncology and by the American Society of Clinical Oncologists’ Quality Oncology Practices Initiatives (QOPI).

Tammy Walker Cancer Center receives Pinnacle of Excellence Award

Friends of the Salina Animal Shelter plans a free pet food giveaway Sunday.

The event is scheduled for 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday at Salina Animal Services, 329 N. Second Street.

The following is from an event post on the Friends of Salina Animal Shelter - Salina, KS Facebook page.

Registration is from 1-4 p.m. Numbers will be assigned for order of distribution; ID and proof of residence required.

Food distribution begins at 4 p.m.

Friends of Salina Animal Shelter reserves the right to refuse service to anyone displaying difficult or unruly behavior.

Food distributed through the FSAS giveaway is made possible through the generous donations of local businesses and supporters of the Friends of the Salina Animal Shelter. We are unable to guarantee the availability of specific brands or varieties but will fulfill your pets needs to the best of our ability. Additionally, food provided here is intended to meet emergency needs and assist low-income pet owners provide for their pets. The giveaway is not intended to be the sole source of meeting your pet's nutritional needs.

By SALINA POSTFriends of the Salina Animal Shelter plans a free pet food giveaway Sunday.The event is scheduled for 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday at Salina Animal Services, 329 N. Second Street.The following is from an event post on the Friends of Salina Animal Shelter - Salina, KS Facebook page.Registration is from 1-4 p.m. Numbers will be assigned for order of distribution; ID and proof of residence required.Food distribution begins at 4 p.m.One distribution per household.Friends of Salina Animal Shelter reserves the right to refuse service to anyone displaying difficult or unruly behavior.Procedures are subject to change.Food distributed through the FSAS giveaway is made possible through the generous donations of local businesses and supporters of the Friends of the Salina Animal Shelter. We are unable to guarantee the availability of specific brands or varieties but will fulfill your pets needs to the best of our ability. Additionally, food provided here is intended to meet emergency needs and assist low-income pet owners provide for their pets. The giveaway is not intended to be the sole source of meeting your pet's nutritional needs.

Pet food giveaway set for Sunday

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beloitkspd">Beloit KS Police Department Facebook page</a>:

We need the public's assistance with any information on a trailer that was stolen at 601 W. 3rd on 1/3/23 at approximately 22:40 hours.

A light colored half ton pickup hooked up to the trailer near the driveway and pulled the trailer out and took off West down 3rd street. Direction of travel from that point is unknown.

The trailer is a 14 ft utility brand trailer white in color single axel. Contents inside the trailer were a Honda dirt bike, atv lift, predator generator and black 4 wheeler.

If you see the trailer or any of the contents do not approach it or anyone around it dial 911 immediately.

And as always thank you very much for your assistance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672927619056.jpeg" alt="The stolen trailer. Photos courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/beloitkspd">Beloit KS Police Department Facebook page</a>" />
 <figcaption>The stolen trailer. Photos courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/beloitkspd">Beloit KS Police Department Facebook page</a></figcaption>
 </figure>From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beloitkspd">Beloit KS Police Department Facebook page</a>:We need the public's assistance with any information on a trailer that was stolen at 601 W. 3rd on 1/3/23 at approximately 22:40 hours. A light colored half ton pickup hooked up to the trailer near the driveway and pulled the trailer out and took off West down 3rd street. Direction of travel from that point is unknown.The trailer is a 14 ft utility brand trailer white in color single axel. Contents inside the trailer were a Honda dirt bike, atv lift, predator generator and black 4 wheeler.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672927700922.jpeg" alt="The stolen dirt bike" />
 <figcaption>The stolen dirt bike</figcaption>
 </figure> If you see the trailer or any of the contents do not approach it or anyone around it dial 911 immediately. And as always thank you very much for your assistance.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672927737801.jpeg" alt="The stolen four-wheeler" />
 <figcaption>The stolen four-wheeler</figcaption>
 </figure>

Beloit police looking for thief who stole trailer, dirt bike, 4-wheeler

Today is Thursday, Jan. 5, the fifth day of 2023. There are 360 days left in the year.

On Jan. 5, 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed assistance to countries to help them resist Communist aggression in what became known as the Eisenhower Doctrine.

In 1896, an Austrian newspaper, Wiener Presse, reported the discovery by German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen of a type of radiation that came to be known as X-rays.

In 1914, auto industrialist Henry Ford announced he was going to pay workers $5 for an 8-hour day, as opposed to $2.34 for a 9-hour day. (Employees still worked six days a week; the 5-day work week was instituted in 1926.)

In 1925, Democrat Nellie Tayloe Ross of Wyoming took office as America's first female governor, succeeding her late husband, William, following a special election.

In 1933, construction began on the Golden Gate Bridge. (Work was completed four years later.)

In 1943, educator and scientist George Washington Carver, who was born into slavery, died in Tuskegee, Alabama, at about age 80.

In 1949, in his State of the Union address, President Harry S. Truman labeled his administration the Fair Deal.

In 1953, Samuel Beckett's two-act tragicomedy "Waiting for Godot," considered a classic of the Theater of the Absurd, premiered in Paris.

In 1972, President Richard Nixon announced that he had ordered development of the space shuttle.

In 1994, Thomas P. "Tip" O'Neill, former speaker of the House of Representatives, died in Boston at age 81.

In 1998, Sonny Bono, the 1960s pop star-turned-politician, was killed when he struck a tree while skiing at the Heavenly Ski Resort on the Nevada-California state line; he was 62.

In 2004, foreigners arriving at U.S. airports were photographed and had their fingerprints scanned in the start of a government effort to keep terrorists out of the country.

In 2011, John Boehner was elected speaker as Republicans regained control of the House of Representatives on the first day of the new Congress.

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama hailed a last-minute deal with Congress that pulled the country back from the "fiscal cliff," but warned in his Saturday radio and Internet address that he would not compromise over his insistence that lawmakers lift the federal debt ceiling.

Five years ago: Former Fox News Channel anchor and 1989 Miss America Gretchen Carlson was named chairwoman of the Miss America Organization's board of directors, with three other past pageant winners joining her on the board. In the first Rose Bowl to go into overtime, Georgia advanced to college football's national championship game with a 54-48 win over Oklahoma. Alabama advanced by beating top-ranked Clemson, 24-6, in the Sugar Bowl. Peter Martins, the longtime leader of the New York City Ballet, announced his retirement in the midst of an investigation into accusations of sexual misconduct. California launched legal sales of recreational marijuana, with customers linking up early for ribbon cuttings and promotions.

One year ago: Australia denied entry to tennis star Novak Djokovic, who was seeking to play for a 10th Australian Open title later in the month; authorities canceled his visa because he failed to meet the requirements for an exemption to COVID-19 vaccination rules. (Djokovic, a vocal skeptic of vaccines, would be confined to an immigration detention hotel as he began a court fight that eventually proved unsuccessful.) After being held out of the team's first 35 games because he refused to get vaccinated, Kyrie Irving scored 22 points for the Brooklyn Nets in his first game of the season as the team beat the Indiana Pacers 129-121 on the road; he was still unable to play in New York because of his vaccination status. The Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, scheduled for Jan. 31, was postponed due to what organizers called "too many risks" from the omicron variant of the coronavirus. (It would be rescheduled for early April in Las Vegas.)

Today's Birthdays: Actor Robert Duvall is 92. Juan Carlos, former King of Spain, is 85. Singer-musician Athol Guy (The Seekers) is 83. Former talk show host Charlie Rose is 81. Actor-director Diane Keaton is 77. Actor Ted Lange is 75. R&amp;B musician George "Funky" Brown (Kool and the Gang) is 74. Rock musician Chris Stein (Blondie) is 73. Former CIA Director George Tenet is 70. Actor Pamela Sue Martin is 70. Actor Clancy Brown is 64. Singer Iris Dement is 62. Actor Suzy Amis is 61. Actor Ricky Paull Goldin is 58. Actor Vinnie Jones is 58. Rock musician Kate Schellenbach (Luscious Jackson) is 57. Actor Joe Flanigan is 56. Talk show host/dancer-choreographer Carrie Ann Inaba is 55. Rock musician Troy Van Leeuwen (Queens of the Stone Age) is 55. Actor Heather Paige Kent is 54. Rock singer Marilyn Manson is 54. Actor Shea Whigham is 54. Actor Derek Cecil is 50. Actor-comedian Jessica Chaffin is 49. Actor Bradley Cooper is 48. Actor January Jones is 45. Actor Brooklyn Sudano is 42. Actor Franz Drameh is 30.

<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, Jan. 5, the fifth day of 2023. There are 360 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Jan. 5, 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed assistance to countries to help them resist Communist aggression in what became known as the Eisenhower Doctrine.On this date:In 1896, an Austrian newspaper, Wiener Presse, reported the discovery by German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen of a type of radiation that came to be known as X-rays.In 1914, auto industrialist Henry Ford announced he was going to pay workers $5 for an 8-hour day, as opposed to $2.34 for a 9-hour day. (Employees still worked six days a week; the 5-day work week was instituted in 1926.)In 1925, Democrat Nellie Tayloe Ross of Wyoming took office as America's first female governor, succeeding her late husband, William, following a special election.In 1933, construction began on the Golden Gate Bridge. (Work was completed four years later.)In 1943, educator and scientist George Washington Carver, who was born into slavery, died in Tuskegee, Alabama, at about age 80.In 1949, in his State of the Union address, President Harry S. Truman labeled his administration the Fair Deal.In 1953, Samuel Beckett's two-act tragicomedy "Waiting for Godot," considered a classic of the Theater of the Absurd, premiered in Paris.In 1972, President Richard Nixon announced that he had ordered development of the space shuttle.In 1994, Thomas P. "Tip" O'Neill, former speaker of the House of Representatives, died in Boston at age 81.In 1998, Sonny Bono, the 1960s pop star-turned-politician, was killed when he struck a tree while skiing at the Heavenly Ski Resort on the Nevada-California state line; he was 62.In 2004, foreigners arriving at U.S. airports were photographed and had their fingerprints scanned in the start of a government effort to keep terrorists out of the country.In 2011, John Boehner was elected speaker as Republicans regained control of the House of Representatives on the first day of the new Congress.Ten years ago: President Barack Obama hailed a last-minute deal with Congress that pulled the country back from the "fiscal cliff," but warned in his Saturday radio and Internet address that he would not compromise over his insistence that lawmakers lift the federal debt ceiling.Five years ago: Former Fox News Channel anchor and 1989 Miss America Gretchen Carlson was named chairwoman of the Miss America Organization's board of directors, with three other past pageant winners joining her on the board. In the first Rose Bowl to go into overtime, Georgia advanced to college football's national championship game with a 54-48 win over Oklahoma. Alabama advanced by beating top-ranked Clemson, 24-6, in the Sugar Bowl. Peter Martins, the longtime leader of the New York City Ballet, announced his retirement in the midst of an investigation into accusations of sexual misconduct. California launched legal sales of recreational marijuana, with customers linking up early for ribbon cuttings and promotions.One year ago: Australia denied entry to tennis star Novak Djokovic, who was seeking to play for a 10th Australian Open title later in the month; authorities canceled his visa because he failed to meet the requirements for an exemption to COVID-19 vaccination rules. (Djokovic, a vocal skeptic of vaccines, would be confined to an immigration detention hotel as he began a court fight that eventually proved unsuccessful.) After being held out of the team's first 35 games because he refused to get vaccinated, Kyrie Irving scored 22 points for the Brooklyn Nets in his first game of the season as the team beat the Indiana Pacers 129-121 on the road; he was still unable to play in New York because of his vaccination status. The Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, scheduled for Jan. 31, was postponed due to what organizers called "too many risks" from the omicron variant of the coronavirus. (It would be rescheduled for early April in Las Vegas.)Today's Birthdays: Actor Robert Duvall is 92. Juan Carlos, former King of Spain, is 85. Singer-musician Athol Guy (The Seekers) is 83. Former talk show host Charlie Rose is 81. Actor-director Diane Keaton is 77. Actor Ted Lange is 75. R&amp;B musician George "Funky" Brown (Kool and the Gang) is 74. Rock musician Chris Stein (Blondie) is 73. Former CIA Director George Tenet is 70. Actor Pamela Sue Martin is 70. Actor Clancy Brown is 64. Singer Iris Dement is 62. Actor Suzy Amis is 61. Actor Ricky Paull Goldin is 58. Actor Vinnie Jones is 58. Rock musician Kate Schellenbach (Luscious Jackson) is 57. Actor Joe Flanigan is 56. Talk show host/dancer-choreographer Carrie Ann Inaba is 55. Rock musician Troy Van Leeuwen (Queens of the Stone Age) is 55. Actor Heather Paige Kent is 54. Rock singer Marilyn Manson is 54. Actor Shea Whigham is 54. Actor Derek Cecil is 50. Actor-comedian Jessica Chaffin is 49. Actor Bradley Cooper is 48. Actor January Jones is 45. Actor Brooklyn Sudano is 42. Actor Franz Drameh is 30.

Today in History - Jan. 5

Russell County USD 407 is seeking applicants for treasurer. &nbsp;

Must have Associate of Science in accounting or finance; 5 years of financial management, supervises accounting operations, accounts payable and budget. &nbsp;

For more information or to apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd407.org/">www.usd407.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671029274787.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell County USD 407 is seeking applicants for treasurer. &nbsp;Must have Associate of Science in accounting or finance; 5 years of financial management, supervises accounting operations, accounts payable and budget. &nbsp;For more information or to apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd407.org/">www.usd407.org</a>

Kevin Willmott to emcee Kelly-Toland Inaugural Ball

The Salina City Commissioners will hold a special meeting on Friday at 8 a.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street.

They will recess into executive session immediately following roll call based upon the need to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel related to the city manager’s evaluation. 

City of SalinaThe Salina City Commissioners will hold a special meeting on Friday at 8 a.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street.They will recess into executive session immediately following roll call based upon the need to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel related to the city manager’s evaluation. Possible action will follow.

Salina City Commission special meeting set for Friday morning

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Wildlife &amp; Parks Facebook page</a>:

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Wildlife &amp; Parks Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKanopolisStatePark%2Fposts%2Fpfbid035HXcp9NpJreBRtdYHZJ3Lj5bzXSJJ9c49MDnhYvD279g4zGmWgtuxrMrSvRFGB4Gl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="844" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Kanopolis State Park closes trails due to eagle nesting activity

Changes have been made to the popular CityGo monthly pass program.&nbsp;

CityGo is now selling a 30-day bus pass that will start on the date of purchase, instead of the previously sold calendar month pass.&nbsp; Half-month passes will no longer be sold.&nbsp; A 30-day bus pass can be purchased at any time during the month and will be good for 30 days.

Thirty-day bus passes will cost $35 each and can be purchased in a variety of ways, including the following.

In person at the following locations: ●OCCK Transportation, 340 N. Santa Fe Avenue ●OCCK, Inc., 1710 W. Schilling Road ●Bennington State Bank, 2130 S. Ohio Street ●Bennington State Bank, 200 S. Ninth Street ●Salina Senior Center, 245 S. Ninth Street

By mail to 340 N. Santa Fe Avenue, Salina, Kansas 67401

Online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com">www.salinacitygo.com</a>&nbsp;under Buy A Pass.

Digitally in the Token Transit app

Three-month ($90), six-month ($180), and 12-month ($360) passes are also available to purchase.&nbsp;

“We are excited that CityGo passengers can now purchase 30-day bus passes at their convenience anytime during the month,” said Rena Bishop, fixed routes coordinator for OCCK Transportation.&nbsp; “This enhances the ease of access to our transportation service.”

OCCK Transportation uses Token Transit as a mobile fare payment service for all services, including CityGo.&nbsp;&nbsp;The app is free and is available in both the Apple and Google Play stores. Using Token Transit eliminates the need for hard surface contact at the fare box between drivers and passengers. It is a cashless, cardless, and contactless payment solution.&nbsp; This partnership will provide riders with a new level of convenience that eliminates the need for carrying cash.&nbsp;&nbsp;To use Token Transit, first you download the Token Transit mobile app. Second, you buy your transit pass. Finally, you use your phone to tap your pass from the Token Transit app and board your bus or van. The location feature must be enabled on your phone to use Token Transit.

OCCK TransportationChanges have been made to the popular CityGo monthly pass program.&nbsp;CityGo is now selling a 30-day bus pass that will start on the date of purchase, instead of the previously sold calendar month pass.&nbsp; Half-month passes will no longer be sold.&nbsp; A 30-day bus pass can be purchased at any time during the month and will be good for 30 days.Thirty-day bus passes will cost $35 each and can be purchased in a variety of ways, including the following.In person at the following locations: ●OCCK Transportation, 340 N. Santa Fe Avenue ●OCCK, Inc., 1710 W. Schilling Road ●Bennington State Bank, 2130 S. Ohio Street ●Bennington State Bank, 200 S. Ninth Street ●Salina Senior Center, 245 S. Ninth Street By mail to 340 N. Santa Fe Avenue, Salina, Kansas 67401Online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com">www.salinacitygo.com</a>&nbsp;under Buy A Pass. Digitally in the Token Transit appThree-month ($90), six-month ($180), and 12-month ($360) passes are also available to purchase.&nbsp;“We are excited that CityGo passengers can now purchase 30-day bus passes at their convenience anytime during the month,” said Rena Bishop, fixed routes coordinator for OCCK Transportation.&nbsp; “This enhances the ease of access to our transportation service.”OCCK Transportation uses Token Transit as a mobile fare payment service for all services, including CityGo.&nbsp;&nbsp;The app is free and is available in both the Apple and Google Play stores. Using Token Transit eliminates the need for hard surface contact at the fare box between drivers and passengers. It is a cashless, cardless, and contactless payment solution.&nbsp; This partnership will provide riders with a new level of convenience that eliminates the need for carrying cash.&nbsp;&nbsp;To use Token Transit, first you download the Token Transit mobile app. Second, you buy your transit pass. Finally, you use your phone to tap your pass from the Token Transit app and board your bus or van. The location feature must be enabled on your phone to use Token Transit.

OCCK Transportation announces CityGo monthly pass changes

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Riley County have arrested a Salina man on two warrants related to drug allegations.

Just after 10 p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 47-year-old Jason Smith of Salina for his two outstanding failure to appear warrants through Riley County District Court, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The first warrant stems from Smith failing to appear in court on August 5, 2022, for an original charge of possession with intent to distribute after meth was found in a car he was in during a traffic stop on June 27, 2022, near the intersection of S. 11th Street and El Paso Lane in Manhattan. 

The second warrant is for failing to appear in court on Sept. 6, 2022, for original charges of possession with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute LSD, and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia after drugs were found in his truck that had crashed in the 11000 block of Madison Road east of Riley on Nov. 20, 2020. 

Smith remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $80,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665671408100.jpeg" alt="Smith has previous drug convictions in Marshall County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Photo from an October arrest in Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Smith has previous drug convictions in Marshall County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Photo from an October arrest in Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Post News NetworkRILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Riley County have arrested a Salina man on two warrants related to drug allegations.Just after 10 p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 47-year-old Jason Smith of Salina for his two outstanding failure to appear warrants through Riley County District Court, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The first warrant stems from Smith failing to appear in court on August 5, 2022, for an original charge of possession with intent to distribute after meth was found in a car he was in during a traffic stop on June 27, 2022, near the intersection of S. 11th Street and El Paso Lane in Manhattan. The second warrant is for failing to appear in court on Sept. 6, 2022, for original charges of possession with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute LSD, and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia after drugs were found in his truck that had crashed in the 11000 block of Madison Road east of Riley on Nov. 20, 2020. Smith remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $80,000.

Salina man jailed in Manhattan on drug allegations

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Information about the 2023 Kansas Legislature is only a phone call or chat away, the State Library of Kansas reminds residents. The toll-free number for the Legislative Hotline is&nbsp;1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference and research librarians at the State Library.

Other questions may concern the legislative process, where to find historic information, and other Kansas government related questions.

The Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., however constituents can leave a brief message for their legislators, or for a librarian’s response. Questions can also be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.

Kansans can also chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask a Librarian service found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.H-dkLa1muV6h0Oqnl2WtlePnyR8hGeb45nD4Ljfj3aY/s/1419840138/br/151607751787-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>. From this page, residents use the web or download the mobile app to connect to the State Library’s reference services through chat, email, or phone. TTY users should call 711.

Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>

Web:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.fUSObMzInCp7IIDiQSywdw1pCGal3nrsYMROhesk0ZI/s/1419840138/br/151607751787-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>

State Library of KansasTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Information about the 2023 Kansas Legislature is only a phone call or chat away, the State Library of Kansas reminds residents. The toll-free number for the Legislative Hotline is&nbsp;1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference and research librarians at the State Library.Frequently asked questions include:●Who are my legislators?●How can I contact them?●What is the status of this bill?Other questions may concern the legislative process, where to find historic information, and other Kansas government related questions.The Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., however constituents can leave a brief message for their legislators, or for a librarian’s response. Questions can also be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.Kansans can also chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask a Librarian service found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.H-dkLa1muV6h0Oqnl2WtlePnyR8hGeb45nD4Ljfj3aY/s/1419840138/br/151607751787-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>. From this page, residents use the web or download the mobile app to connect to the State Library’s reference services through chat, email, or phone. TTY users should call 711.Hotline: 1-800-432-3924Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>Web:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.fUSObMzInCp7IIDiQSywdw1pCGal3nrsYMROhesk0ZI/s/1419840138/br/151607751787-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>

Legislative hotline available to Kansans

LINDSBORG – Music by Stravinsky, Elgar, and Schubert will be featured during the upcoming Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley (COSV) concert.

The concert is scheduled for 4 p.m. Jan. 15 in Bethany Lutheran Church in Lindsborg. The concert is open to the public at no charge.

Supported by Bethany College and the Lindsborg Arts Council, the COSV is an auditioned regional ensemble of professional musicians that includes not only Bethany faculty members but players from Wichita, Manhattan, Salina, and Kansas City as well. Under the musical direction of Keith Dodson, assistant professor of music and director of instrumental studies, and led by concertmaster Ann Samuelson, the ensemble seeks to educate and engage audience members through the performance of orchestral masterworks.

While there are a number of symphonic orchestras in the central Kansas area, this ensemble is unique in terms of its smaller size and that it consistently maintains accomplished principal musicians from all over the region.

“As a musician and connoisseur of classical music, I believe it is essential to support the COSV as it brings a high-quality performance and people to our local area together through their appreciation of music. Represented is a diverse host of faculty from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. Alongside these players are members of the Salina Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Kansas City Civic, and Kansas City Symphony, as well as our Lindsborg musicians and Bethany College faculty. Keith Dodson has programmed a season of music that will provoke your thoughts, inspire your creativity, and, most importantly, bring us closer as a community that cherishes decorating our communal time with the sounds of music,” said Bethany College President Elizabeth Mauch.

Members of the chamber orchestra include the following.

Ann Samuelson is a recently retired instructor of music in violin/viola and piano proficiency at Bethany College. She is a member of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and maintains a private studio of violin and viola students. She received her Bachelor of Music Education degree and Kodaly certification from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and a Master of Music degree in violin performance from the University of Connecticut.

Nancy Johnson has been the principal second violin of the Wichita Symphony since 2000. She is also on the faculties of Bethel College and Hesston College, teaching private violin students. Johnson holds degrees in violin performance from The University of Kansas and Virginia Commonwealth University with post-graduate work at the University of Northern Colorado.

Ricardo Cavalcante de Oliveira started his musical career as a violist at Pernambuco Conservatory in Brazil at the age of 13. Cavalcante de Oliveira graduated from The University of Kansas with a Master of Music degree with an emphasis in viola performance in 2022.

Meagan Dodson is currently the instructor of cello at Bethany College and a student in the Masters of String Pedagogy program at the University of Kansas, studying under Hannah Collins. She was recently appointed to the cello faculty at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.

Andrew Book&nbsp;is a 5th-12th grade orchestra teacher of 12 years in the Blue Valley West area of Overland Park. Book graduated from Wichita State University with degrees in music education and double bass, and completed his Master of Music Education degree, with an emphasis in string pedagogy.

Colleen White is an assistant professor of flute at Kansas State University. She has coordinated performance events for Grammy Award winners, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows for the Colorado Flute Association and Spoleto Festival USA. White regularly performs in a wide variety of solo, orchestral, and chamber music settings across North America, including performances with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, as a soloist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and at Carnegie Hall.

Margaret Marco is the professor of oboe at the University of Kansas and principal oboist of the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern University, a Master of Music Education degree from The University of Iowa, and a Doctor of Music Arts degree from the University of Illinois.

Susan Gustavson Maxwell is a teacher, performer, and reed maker. She currently, teaches bassoon, history of rock, aural skills, and introduction to music at Kansas State University and performs regularly with the Konza Wind Quintet and the Tallgrass Trio. Maxwell is the only named bassoon tool maker for her Bassoon Reed Profiler. This tool is in use at all major music schools around the country. Another area of expertise is the art of playing high notes on the bassoon. This has resulted in a High Note Studies published with three retailers.

Meri Jenkins completed her baccalaureate degree in music performance in her hometown at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and completed her master’s degree in music performance at Wichita State University. She owns and operates Intrepid Brass Wichita LLC, which creates work and opportunities for brass players through chamber brass gigs and the newly created community ensemble, Intrepid Brass Band. Jenkins teaches adjunct brass lessons at Bethel College and maintains a private studio of middle and high school students across Wichita.

Andrew Bishop holds a master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of Missouri and studied trumpet performance at Wichita State University. In the spring of 2019, Bishop won the principal trumpet chair with the Des Moines Symphony. In the fall of 2021, Bishop was named lecturer of trumpet at Iowa State University.

Dan Hinman is an instructor at Kansas State University where he teaches applied trombone, the KSU Trombone Choir, and other academic music courses. Hinman holds a music education degree from North Dakota State University, a Master of Music degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in trombone performance from the University of North Texas.

Bethany CollegeLINDSBORG – Music by Stravinsky, Elgar, and Schubert will be featured during the upcoming Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley (COSV) concert.The concert is scheduled for 4 p.m. Jan. 15 in Bethany Lutheran Church in Lindsborg. The concert is open to the public at no charge.Supported by Bethany College and the Lindsborg Arts Council, the COSV is an auditioned regional ensemble of professional musicians that includes not only Bethany faculty members but players from Wichita, Manhattan, Salina, and Kansas City as well. Under the musical direction of Keith Dodson, assistant professor of music and director of instrumental studies, and led by concertmaster Ann Samuelson, the ensemble seeks to educate and engage audience members through the performance of orchestral masterworks.While there are a number of symphonic orchestras in the central Kansas area, this ensemble is unique in terms of its smaller size and that it consistently maintains accomplished principal musicians from all over the region.“As a musician and connoisseur of classical music, I believe it is essential to support the COSV as it brings a high-quality performance and people to our local area together through their appreciation of music. Represented is a diverse host of faculty from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. Alongside these players are members of the Salina Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Kansas City Civic, and Kansas City Symphony, as well as our Lindsborg musicians and Bethany College faculty. Keith Dodson has programmed a season of music that will provoke your thoughts, inspire your creativity, and, most importantly, bring us closer as a community that cherishes decorating our communal time with the sounds of music,” said Bethany College President Elizabeth Mauch.Members of the chamber orchestra include the following.Ann Samuelson is a recently retired instructor of music in violin/viola and piano proficiency at Bethany College. She is a member of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and maintains a private studio of violin and viola students. She received her Bachelor of Music Education degree and Kodaly certification from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and a Master of Music degree in violin performance from the University of Connecticut.Nancy Johnson has been the principal second violin of the Wichita Symphony since 2000. She is also on the faculties of Bethel College and Hesston College, teaching private violin students. Johnson holds degrees in violin performance from The University of Kansas and Virginia Commonwealth University with post-graduate work at the University of Northern Colorado.Ricardo Cavalcante de Oliveira started his musical career as a violist at Pernambuco Conservatory in Brazil at the age of 13. Cavalcante de Oliveira graduated from The University of Kansas with a Master of Music degree with an emphasis in viola performance in 2022.Meagan Dodson is currently the instructor of cello at Bethany College and a student in the Masters of String Pedagogy program at the University of Kansas, studying under Hannah Collins. She was recently appointed to the cello faculty at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.Andrew Book&nbsp;is a 5th-12th grade orchestra teacher of 12 years in the Blue Valley West area of Overland Park. Book graduated from Wichita State University with degrees in music education and double bass, and completed his Master of Music Education degree, with an emphasis in string pedagogy.Colleen White is an assistant professor of flute at Kansas State University. She has coordinated performance events for Grammy Award winners, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows for the Colorado Flute Association and Spoleto Festival USA. White regularly performs in a wide variety of solo, orchestral, and chamber music settings across North America, including performances with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, as a soloist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and at Carnegie Hall.Margaret Marco is the professor of oboe at the University of Kansas and principal oboist of the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern University, a Master of Music Education degree from The University of Iowa, and a Doctor of Music Arts degree from the University of Illinois.Susan Gustavson Maxwell is a teacher, performer, and reed maker. She currently, teaches bassoon, history of rock, aural skills, and introduction to music at Kansas State University and performs regularly with the Konza Wind Quintet and the Tallgrass Trio. Maxwell is the only named bassoon tool maker for her Bassoon Reed Profiler. This tool is in use at all major music schools around the country. Another area of expertise is the art of playing high notes on the bassoon. This has resulted in a High Note Studies published with three retailers.Meri Jenkins completed her baccalaureate degree in music performance in her hometown at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and completed her master’s degree in music performance at Wichita State University. She owns and operates Intrepid Brass Wichita LLC, which creates work and opportunities for brass players through chamber brass gigs and the newly created community ensemble, Intrepid Brass Band. Jenkins teaches adjunct brass lessons at Bethel College and maintains a private studio of middle and high school students across Wichita.Andrew Bishop holds a master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of Missouri and studied trumpet performance at Wichita State University. In the spring of 2019, Bishop won the principal trumpet chair with the Des Moines Symphony. In the fall of 2021, Bishop was named lecturer of trumpet at Iowa State University.Dan Hinman is an instructor at Kansas State University where he teaches applied trombone, the KSU Trombone Choir, and other academic music courses. Hinman holds a music education degree from North Dakota State University, a Master of Music degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in trombone performance from the University of North Texas.

Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley concert Jan. 15

· Commercial Loan Imaging &amp; Quality Control Specialist

To apply, go to: Sunflower Bank NA - Job Opportunities (<a href="http://paylocity.com/">paylocity.com</a>)

The competitive benefits package is designed to attract and retain quality and long-term associates. Benefits Include:

· Supplemental Insurance /Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

· Voluntary Accidental Death &amp; Dismemberment Insurance

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654571436662.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Job Opportunities in Salina:· Commercial Loan Imaging &amp; Quality Control Specialist· IT Asset Manager· Customer Care Center CSR· Universal Banker· Facilities Coordinator· Accounts Payable AnalystTo apply, go to: Sunflower Bank NA - Job Opportunities (<a href="http://paylocity.com/">paylocity.com</a>)The competitive benefits package is designed to attract and retain quality and long-term associates. Benefits Include:· Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance· Supplemental Insurance /Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)· Group Term Life Insurance· Long-term Disability Insurance· Voluntary Life Insurance· Voluntary Accidental Death &amp; Dismemberment Insurance· 401k Plan· Paid Time Off (PTO)· Short-term Disability Insurance· Volunteer/Parenting Leave· Holiday Leave· Tuition Reimbursement

Recent obituaries and service times

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher We’ve arrived at another intersection of old and new. A time where we say goodbye to one year while also welcoming another. The singing of “Auld Lang Syne” has been sung, well-wishes have been said, and new goals have been declared. This is also a traditional time of reflection. Whether it’s looking back at the best movies watched, the total number of books read, the overall amount of rainfall measured or the number of acres acquired, we all have something to reflect on from the past year.&nbsp; So many of these reflections tend to gravitate toward numbers as the form of official measurement. Understandably, it’s a fairly easy way to look at a specific period of time and determine the wins and losses; the things that worked and the things we learned from during a year. On our farm, we take many numbers and create many charts and graphs to measure a variety of aspects from the year. From fuel prices, household expenditures, rainfall totals, market changes, sales, purchases and so much more. We can and do create visual measurements throughout the year, which allow us to reflect on a variety of areas.&nbsp; To be honest, the visual measurements, while appreciated, sometimes only provide a small glimpse into the overall area being measured and reflected upon. Some of the things we reflect on might highlight one’s strengths or weaknesses or areas for improvement, while other reflections remind us that we have minimal control. If anything, 2022 has reminded me that measurements and assessments don’t always tell a complete story when it comes to reflecting on one’s declared victories or admitted defeats at the end of a year. Numbers might look good and the means of measurement at a given point might suggest an anticipated positive outcome. But if the rain doesn’t fall, or if it falls all at once, or a windstorm blows through, or hail hits, those numbers and outcomes change in an instant. While I generally declare goals at the start of a new year, I have learned over time I won’t have a hard start and stop time with a straight line in between for the sake of measurement. If needed, adjustments will be made along the way based on routine reflections to help me get to where I want to be.&nbsp; And yes, while we have arrived at another intersection of an old year and a new year, we must recognize that there’s traffic coming from multiple directions. In reality, it is how we react and adjust while mindfully reflecting throughout the year which will allow us the opportunity to continue to move forward, getting closer to our ultimate goals.

"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/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher We’ve arrived at another intersection of old and new. A time where we say goodbye to one year while also welcoming another. The singing of “Auld Lang Syne” has been sung, well-wishes have been said, and new goals have been declared. This is also a traditional time of reflection. Whether it’s looking back at the best movies watched, the total number of books read, the overall amount of rainfall measured or the number of acres acquired, we all have something to reflect on from the past year.&nbsp; So many of these reflections tend to gravitate toward numbers as the form of official measurement. Understandably, it’s a fairly easy way to look at a specific period of time and determine the wins and losses; the things that worked and the things we learned from during a year. On our farm, we take many numbers and create many charts and graphs to measure a variety of aspects from the year. From fuel prices, household expenditures, rainfall totals, market changes, sales, purchases and so much more. We can and do create visual measurements throughout the year, which allow us to reflect on a variety of areas.&nbsp; To be honest, the visual measurements, while appreciated, sometimes only provide a small glimpse into the overall area being measured and reflected upon. Some of the things we reflect on might highlight one’s strengths or weaknesses or areas for improvement, while other reflections remind us that we have minimal control. If anything, 2022 has reminded me that measurements and assessments don’t always tell a complete story when it comes to reflecting on one’s declared victories or admitted defeats at the end of a year. Numbers might look good and the means of measurement at a given point might suggest an anticipated positive outcome. But if the rain doesn’t fall, or if it falls all at once, or a windstorm blows through, or hail hits, those numbers and outcomes change in an instant. While I generally declare goals at the start of a new year, I have learned over time I won’t have a hard start and stop time with a straight line in between for the sake of measurement. If needed, adjustments will be made along the way based on routine reflections to help me get to where I want to be.&nbsp; And yes, while we have arrived at another intersection of an old year and a new year, we must recognize that there’s traffic coming from multiple directions. In reality, it is how we react and adjust while mindfully reflecting throughout the year which will allow us the opportunity to continue to move forward, getting closer to our ultimate goals."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Routine reflections

Tickets are now on sale for Kansas Wesleyan’s annual Night with the Yotes event, which will be held Feb. 17 at 5:30 p.m. in Mabee Arena.

“We’re excited to bring Night with the Yotes to campus,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. “The evening is a showcase for so much that’s great about KWU, whether it’s success in competition, in the classroom or on the stage. With the advances we’re making on campus, we are thrilled to include our tremendous facilities in that showcase.”

2023 marks the 12th year of Night with the Yotes, which, in recent years, has come to be synonymous with numerous KWU activities. This year will be no exception. Proceeds from the event will benefit not only athletics but KWU’s Fine Arts, Debate and Forensics, and DECA programs as well.

For more information regarding Night with the Yotes 2023, please call 785-833-4512 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://one.bidpal.net/nwty2023/welcome" target="_blank">https://one.bidpal.net/nwty2023/welcome</a>.

KWUTickets are now on sale for Kansas Wesleyan’s annual Night with the Yotes event, which will be held Feb. 17 at 5:30 p.m. in Mabee Arena.“We’re excited to bring Night with the Yotes to campus,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. “The evening is a showcase for so much that’s great about KWU, whether it’s success in competition, in the classroom or on the stage. With the advances we’re making on campus, we are thrilled to include our tremendous facilities in that showcase.”2023 marks the 12th year of Night with the Yotes, which, in recent years, has come to be synonymous with numerous KWU activities. This year will be no exception. Proceeds from the event will benefit not only athletics but KWU’s Fine Arts, Debate and Forensics, and DECA programs as well.For more information regarding Night with the Yotes 2023, please call 785-833-4512 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://one.bidpal.net/nwty2023/welcome" target="_blank">https://one.bidpal.net/nwty2023/welcome</a>.

Tickets now on sale for Kansas Wesleyan’s Night with the Yotes

City Manager Mike Schrage has appointed Clarence “C.J.” Wise as the new Salina Police Chief.

Wise will begin his new role by early February.

Wise’s career includes more than 25 years of law enforcement experience. He has been a member of the Edmond Police Department in Edmond, Okla., since 1998, and currently serves as a major. He has been a major since 2016 and has also served as captain, sergeant, and officer.

Wise’s diverse experience includes the areas of patrol, K-9, SWAT, detective, drug enforcement, and internal investigations. Wise has supervised field training, peer support, honor guard, and K-9 functions, and has led the Edmond Police Department’s Office of Professional Responsibility, Criminal Investigations Division, and Patrol Division.

Wise’s professional achievements include being selected as Supervisor of the Year two times and an FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award for Supervision, along with numerous Employee of the Month honors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672876448181.jpeg" alt="Clarence “C.J.” Wise. Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/edmondpd">Edmond Police Department, Government Facebook page</a>" />
 <figcaption>Clarence “C.J.” Wise. Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/edmondpd">Edmond Police Department, Government Facebook page</a></figcaption>
 </figure>City of SalinaCity Manager Mike Schrage has appointed Clarence “C.J.” Wise as the new Salina Police Chief.Wise will begin his new role by early February.Wise’s career includes more than 25 years of law enforcement experience. He has been a member of the Edmond Police Department in Edmond, Okla., since 1998, and currently serves as a major. He has been a major since 2016 and has also served as captain, sergeant, and officer.Wise’s diverse experience includes the areas of patrol, K-9, SWAT, detective, drug enforcement, and internal investigations. Wise has supervised field training, peer support, honor guard, and K-9 functions, and has led the Edmond Police Department’s Office of Professional Responsibility, Criminal Investigations Division, and Patrol Division.Wise’s professional achievements include being selected as Supervisor of the Year two times and an FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award for Supervision, along with numerous Employee of the Month honors.He holds a master’s degree in criminal justice management and administration from the University of Central Oklahoma, a bachelor’s degree in business-organizational leadership from Southern Nazarene University, and an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Seminole State College. Wise is a 2019 graduate of the FBI National Academy."C.J.’s vast law enforcement experience&nbsp;and demonstrated leadership approach will be a huge asset for the Salina Police Department and our city. He believes in community-oriented policing and has a track record of successful involvement in the Edmond community, and we are excited to have him lead the Salina Police Department,” Schrage said.

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