Widespread, meaningful precipitation is coming Thursday and Thursday night. 

This will mostly be a rain and isolated thunderstorm event. However, the rain may mix with, or change to, snow Thursday night across northern and central Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647448952620.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceWidespread, meaningful precipitation is coming Thursday and Thursday night. This will mostly be a rain and isolated thunderstorm event. However, the rain may mix with, or change to, snow Thursday night across northern and central Kansas.

NWS: 'Meaningful' precipitation moving in Thursday

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County Public Information coordinator

ABILENE - Four Dickinson County Sheriff’s Department officers were promoted in a special recognition ceremony during the March 10 county commission meeting.

Sheriff Jerry Davis conducted the ceremony, assisted by Undersheriff Brian Hornaday. Captain Stephen Kency, jail supervisor, was in attendance along with three of the officers’ spouses.

Three officers were promoted to sergeant: Vaun Stivers, Roy Gibble, and Zachary Mitchell.

Connie Jaderborg was promoted from corrections sergeant to corrections lieutenant.

Each received a pin and a certificate. The promotions were effective March 13.

Commissioner Craig Chamberlin said he was glad to see that corrections officers have a way to advance in rank so they now can have a “career” instead of just a job.

“We appreciate what you do and we want to strive to have the best department we can have,” said Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson. “Time and time again we have people from other counties look at Dickinson County and say ‘what a great job you do,’ but it’s the people and the teamwork we have here.”

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County Public Information coordinatorABILENE - Four Dickinson County Sheriff’s Department officers were promoted in a special recognition ceremony during the March 10 county commission meeting.Sheriff Jerry Davis conducted the ceremony, assisted by Undersheriff Brian Hornaday. Captain Stephen Kency, jail supervisor, was in attendance along with three of the officers’ spouses.Three officers were promoted to sergeant: Vaun Stivers, Roy Gibble, and Zachary Mitchell.Connie Jaderborg was promoted from corrections sergeant to corrections lieutenant.Each received a pin and a certificate. The promotions were effective March 13.Commissioner Craig Chamberlin said he was glad to see that corrections officers have a way to advance in rank so they now can have a “career” instead of just a job.“We appreciate what you do and we want to strive to have the best department we can have,” said Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson. “Time and time again we have people from other counties look at Dickinson County and say ‘what a great job you do,’ but it’s the people and the teamwork we have here.”

Dickinson County Sheriff's Department promotes four

Salina Adult Education Center is seeking individuals to fill an adult basic education instructor position immediately. Instructors teach reading, writing and math through algebra. Must be proficient in MS Office, Google Docs and able to learn new software quickly. Ability to teach students on site and remotely and work as part of an instructional team critical.

The open position is a full-time position that is a split shift morning/evening Mon – Thurs shift with occasional Friday morning staff meetings

INSTRUCTOR - ADULT BASIC EDUCATION/GED®/COLLEGE SKILL BUILDING Salina Unified School District #305

Purpose Statement:&nbsp;The job of Instructor - Adult Basic Education/GED® is done for the purpose/s of facilitating adult student success in academics, workplace skills, and life skills through implementing program-approved curriculum; documenting student progress/activities/outcomes; addressing specific educational needs of individual students; and providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

This job reports to Director - Salina Adult Education Center

•Administers assessments for the purpose of evaluating students’ entry performance level, planning instruction, documenting progress and verifying completion of outcomes. (paper/pencil and computer based assessments)

• Collaborates with school personnel and various community agencies for the purpose of improving the quality of student outcomes, developing solutions and planning curriculum.

• Models methods required to perform assignments for the purpose of providing an effective school program and addressing the needs of individual students.

• Directs students, volunteers, etc. for the purpose of maximizing their efficiency, meeting requirements and providing feedback.

• Facilitates adult student learning through identification, documentation and accommodation of special learning problems, for the purpose of meeting the needs of individual students.

• Implements defined courses of study for the purpose of improving student success in academics, workplace skills and life skills.

• Uses appropriate English communication for the purpose of developing students’ ability to communicate effectively using the English language.

• Monitors student behavior for the purpose of providing for the safety and welfare of students, providing an optimal learning environment and adhering to district, KBOR, and program policies.

• Prepares teaching materials and related reports (e.g. assessment scores, attendance, anecdotal records, etc.) for the purpose of implementing study plans and documenting student attendance and progress.

• Protects student confidentiality for the purpose of maintaining program compliance with department, district and KBOR policy.

• Provides feedback and information to students and program administration for the purpose of motivating students, facilitating program improvement and documenting outcomes for funding.

• Participates in various initiatives as assigned to improve instructional and programmatic environment for students for the purpose of improving the Salina Adult Education program.

• Understands content standards based instruction and demonstrates ability to write lesson plans incorporating standards and multi-level activities for numerous levels of adult learning for the purpose of meeting program requirements

• Demonstrates high level technology skills including Microsoft Office programs, email functions and learning software and platforms for the purpose of creating lesson content and documenting program activities.

• Fosters employment and college focused relationships and experiences for students to expand opportunities beyond the classroom for the purpose of enhancing student achievement.

• Supports and understands outcomes based funding system for the purpose ensuring program needs and objectives.

Job Requirements: Skills, Knowledge and Abilities (Minimum Qualifications) Specific skills required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying assessment instruments; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and applying instructional strategies appropriate for adults.

Specific knowledge required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job includes:

Writing: mastery of grammar, punctuation, spelling, composition

Math: mastery of high school level mathematics including 1) operations &amp; algebraic thinking, 2) ratio &amp; proportional reasoning, 3) data &amp; statistics, 4) measurement &amp; geometry and 5) algebra.

Reading: Specific abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: establishing and maintaining constructive relationships; motivating, mentoring and empowering adult learners; communicating with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; and working as part of a team.

Bachelor’s Degree Required, Master’s Degree Preferred

Please send resume to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly.mobray@usd305.com">kelly.mobray@usd305.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622772820591.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Adult Education Center is seeking individuals to fill an adult basic education instructor position immediately. Instructors teach reading, writing and math through algebra. Must be proficient in MS Office, Google Docs and able to learn new software quickly. Ability to teach students on site and remotely and work as part of an instructional team critical.The open position is a full-time position that is a split shift morning/evening Mon – Thurs shift with occasional Friday morning staff meetingsINSTRUCTOR - ADULT BASIC EDUCATION/GED®/COLLEGE SKILL BUILDING Salina Unified School District #305Purpose Statement:&nbsp;The job of Instructor - Adult Basic Education/GED® is done for the purpose/s of facilitating adult student success in academics, workplace skills, and life skills through implementing program-approved curriculum; documenting student progress/activities/outcomes; addressing specific educational needs of individual students; and providing a safe and optimal learning environment.This job reports to Director - Salina Adult Education CenterEssential Functions•Administers assessments for the purpose of evaluating students’ entry performance level, planning instruction, documenting progress and verifying completion of outcomes. (paper/pencil and computer based assessments)• Collaborates with school personnel and various community agencies for the purpose of improving the quality of student outcomes, developing solutions and planning curriculum.• Models methods required to perform assignments for the purpose of providing an effective school program and addressing the needs of individual students.• Directs students, volunteers, etc. for the purpose of maximizing their efficiency, meeting requirements and providing feedback.• Facilitates adult student learning through identification, documentation and accommodation of special learning problems, for the purpose of meeting the needs of individual students.• Implements defined courses of study for the purpose of improving student success in academics, workplace skills and life skills.• Uses appropriate English communication for the purpose of developing students’ ability to communicate effectively using the English language.• Monitors student behavior for the purpose of providing for the safety and welfare of students, providing an optimal learning environment and adhering to district, KBOR, and program policies.• Prepares teaching materials and related reports (e.g. assessment scores, attendance, anecdotal records, etc.) for the purpose of implementing study plans and documenting student attendance and progress.• Protects student confidentiality for the purpose of maintaining program compliance with department, district and KBOR policy.• Provides feedback and information to students and program administration for the purpose of motivating students, facilitating program improvement and documenting outcomes for funding.• Participates in various initiatives as assigned to improve instructional and programmatic environment for students for the purpose of improving the Salina Adult Education program.• Understands content standards based instruction and demonstrates ability to write lesson plans incorporating standards and multi-level activities for numerous levels of adult learning for the purpose of meeting program requirements• Demonstrates high level technology skills including Microsoft Office programs, email functions and learning software and platforms for the purpose of creating lesson content and documenting program activities.• Fosters employment and college focused relationships and experiences for students to expand opportunities beyond the classroom for the purpose of enhancing student achievement.• Supports and understands outcomes based funding system for the purpose ensuring program needs and objectives.Job Requirements: Skills, Knowledge and Abilities (Minimum Qualifications) Specific skills required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying assessment instruments; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and applying instructional strategies appropriate for adults.Specific knowledge required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job includes: Writing: mastery of grammar, punctuation, spelling, composition Math: mastery of high school level mathematics including 1) operations &amp; algebraic thinking, 2) ratio &amp; proportional reasoning, 3) data &amp; statistics, 4) measurement &amp; geometry and 5) algebra. Reading: Specific abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: establishing and maintaining constructive relationships; motivating, mentoring and empowering adult learners; communicating with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; and working as part of a team.Bachelor’s Degree Required, Master’s Degree PreferredPlease send resume to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly.mobray@usd305.com">kelly.mobray@usd305.com</a>

Multiple items stolen in north Salina RV break-in

A utility terrain vehicle (UTV) was destroyed in a fire Tuesday afternoon in southeastern Saline County.

Uriah Swisher, 37, of Assaria, was working in a pasture when he stopped the UTV to check some fence. Within just a few minutes, the 2016 Polaris Ranger was ablaze, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. The incident occurred at approximately 4:02 p.m. Tuesday in the 7000 block of S. Woodward Road.

Also destroyed in the fire were a rifle and some ammunition that were aboard the UTV, Soldan said.

The UTV was valued at $20,000. No value estimate was available for the rifle and ammunition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647446208459.jpeg" alt="The remains of the UTV.&nbsp; Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The remains of the UTV.&nbsp; Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA utility terrain vehicle (UTV) was destroyed in a fire Tuesday afternoon in southeastern Saline County.Uriah Swisher, 37, of Assaria, was working in a pasture when he stopped the UTV to check some fence. Within just a few minutes, the 2016 Polaris Ranger was ablaze, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. The incident occurred at approximately 4:02 p.m. Tuesday in the 7000 block of S. Woodward Road.Also destroyed in the fire were a rifle and some ammunition that were aboard the UTV, Soldan said.The UTV was valued at $20,000. No value estimate was available for the rifle and ammunition.

Blaze destroys UTV, rifle, ammo in SE Saline County Tuesday

Police are looking for the person who shot a landscaper in the chest with a BB gun late Tuesday morning in downtown Salina.

A 26-year-old Salina woman who works for Landscape Consultants, 1777 E. Old Highway 40, was doing some work in the 200 block of S. Santa Fe Avenue when a white, four-door Dodge Ram drove slowly past her. A rear driver's side passenger shot a black BB gun out the window, striking the woman in the chest, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The pickup then left the scene.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:48 a.m. Tuesday.

The woman was not injured, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for the person who shot a landscaper in the chest with a BB gun late Tuesday morning in downtown Salina.A 26-year-old Salina woman who works for Landscape Consultants, 1777 E. Old Highway 40, was doing some work in the 200 block of S. Santa Fe Avenue when a white, four-door Dodge Ram drove slowly past her. A rear driver's side passenger shot a black BB gun out the window, striking the woman in the chest, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The pickup then left the scene.The incident occurred at approximately 11:48 a.m. Tuesday.The woman was not injured, Forrester said.

Landscaper hit with BB in downtown Salina drive-by shooting

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher Last week I had the privilege of being at my Kansas Farm Bureau district’s issue surfacing meeting. We had a great meeting with very good attendance and a lively discussion of issues affecting farmers and ranchers in northeast Kansas. I would hate to say how many issue surfacing meetings I have attended, but I look forward to them each and every year because they are the very epitome of what Kansas Farm Bureau is about. Just the week before I was explaining to a friend about how Farm Bureau’s policy development process works. It’s an explanation I have given many times over the years, and one I never get tired of sharing. Explaining how we do things also makes me so proud that our organization truly is one that works at a grassroots level. The policy development process for Farm Bureau can be kind of clunky. &nbsp;It is never fast, but it is truly driven by the members in each county. At our meeting last week, I saw fellow members bring forth issues affecting them and their operations each and every day. Some were issues I am familiar with, but others were topics that I had not thought of. &nbsp;Everything discussed was important and relevant to individual members. That every part of our policy started out as an issue surfaced by a member is something we should be proud of, and it should be the core of what we do. We should never lose sight that the most important part of our policy development are the needs of our members at the county level. An idea is brought forth at an issue surfacing meeting and then it is researched, discussed and policy is molded by Kansas Farm Bureau’s Resolutions Committee. Then in the fall, the refined policy proposal is brought to the membership that surfaced it to make sure it meets their expectations and needs. Finally, the proposed policy is discussed and voted on by our delegates at the Kansas Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. Then, and only then, is it part of our policy that will guide our work with legislators and other organizations. I know I am repeating this to most of you involved in Farm Bureau, but it is a good refresher to remind us that all policy comes from our grassroots. Those grassroots are the foundation and the strength of Kansas Farm Bureau. It is what makes us the most powerful general farm organization in Kansas and across the country. It is the power of millions of members coming together to represent agriculture. If you have been part of this process, thank you and keep up the good work. If you are a member and have not participated in the process, I urge you to take part either this spring or next fall. The truth is that we need every member to be a part of our policy development; we need your perspective, your unique viewpoint and, most importantly, your input. Contact your county office and find out how to get involved and then make the commitment, I promise you won’t regret it.

"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 © 2022 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher Last week I had the privilege of being at my Kansas Farm Bureau district’s issue surfacing meeting. We had a great meeting with very good attendance and a lively discussion of issues affecting farmers and ranchers in northeast Kansas. I would hate to say how many issue surfacing meetings I have attended, but I look forward to them each and every year because they are the very epitome of what Kansas Farm Bureau is about. Just the week before I was explaining to a friend about how Farm Bureau’s policy development process works. It’s an explanation I have given many times over the years, and one I never get tired of sharing. Explaining how we do things also makes me so proud that our organization truly is one that works at a grassroots level. The policy development process for Farm Bureau can be kind of clunky. &nbsp;It is never fast, but it is truly driven by the members in each county. At our meeting last week, I saw fellow members bring forth issues affecting them and their operations each and every day. Some were issues I am familiar with, but others were topics that I had not thought of. &nbsp;Everything discussed was important and relevant to individual members. That every part of our policy started out as an issue surfaced by a member is something we should be proud of, and it should be the core of what we do. We should never lose sight that the most important part of our policy development are the needs of our members at the county level. An idea is brought forth at an issue surfacing meeting and then it is researched, discussed and policy is molded by Kansas Farm Bureau’s Resolutions Committee. Then in the fall, the refined policy proposal is brought to the membership that surfaced it to make sure it meets their expectations and needs. Finally, the proposed policy is discussed and voted on by our delegates at the Kansas Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. Then, and only then, is it part of our policy that will guide our work with legislators and other organizations. I know I am repeating this to most of you involved in Farm Bureau, but it is a good refresher to remind us that all policy comes from our grassroots. Those grassroots are the foundation and the strength of Kansas Farm Bureau. It is what makes us the most powerful general farm organization in Kansas and across the country. It is the power of millions of members coming together to represent agriculture. If you have been part of this process, thank you and keep up the good work. If you are a member and have not participated in the process, I urge you to take part either this spring or next fall. The truth is that we need every member to be a part of our policy development; we need your perspective, your unique viewpoint and, most importantly, your input. Contact your county office and find out how to get involved and then make the commitment, I promise you won’t regret it."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 © 2022 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Proposing policies

By GARY DEMUTH For the Salina Symphony

A guitar teacher tuning up with Bach caused Yaniv Attar to fall in love with classical music.

A native of Israel, Attar’s path to a career as a professional musician and orchestra conductor began with an acoustic guitar his mother bought him.

“She wanted me to have some kind of music in my life,” Attar said. “All she could afford to buy me was a guitar, thinking I would play folk music.”

During one of his first guitar lessons, the teacher began tuning Attar’s guitar by playing a classical piece by Johann Sebastian Bach. Attar was instantly smitten with the glorious sound he heard flowing from the instrument.

“I told him that I wanted to learn this piece,” Attar said. “He told me that classical guitar was a very different way of teaching. I said I didn’t care; I have to learn this.”

Through intense study, Attar eventually became an accomplished classical guitarist, becoming the first guitarist to win the Aviv Competition Prize in Israel and the first guitarist to win the Concerto Competition at the Juilliard School in New York City.

Despite his success as a classical guitarist, conducting became Attar’s first love. He is the fourth of five finalists vying for the position of conductor and music director of the Salina Symphony. His concert, Melodic Journey, will be at 4 p.m. March 27 at the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, 151 S. Santa Fe.

The program will include a performance of Tchaikovsky’s melodic and masterful Fifth Symphony, the Mexican influenced rhythms of Danzon No. 2 by Arturo Marquez and Joaquin Rodrigo’s soulful and poetic Concierto de Aranjuez, featuring classical guitarist Daniel Bolshoy.

Attar and Bolshoy will give a pre-concert talk beginning at 3 p.m. March 27 in the Stiefel Theatre Watson Room.

“We are so delighted to present our music director finalists to our patrons and the community this season,” said Adrienne Allen, executive director of the Salina Symphony. “Our search begins an exciting new chapter for the Symphony.”

Attar said he researched the Salina Symphony before applying for the director position and was impressed with what he found.

“I have conductor colleagues who told me great things about the Salina Symphony,” he said. “The community is very supportive of the orchestra. They also have been very organized in their search.”

Attar is grateful to be one of five finalists for the position and invited to conduct a live concert with Salina Symphony musicians.

“The real job of a conductor is what’s happening in rehearsals, what you hear, how you communicate with the orchestra and how you lead them,” he said.

Attar said his primary goal as a conductor is to “build the sound of an orchestra” and to be a good collaborator.

“I like to collaborate with the musicians to design a season together,” he said. “That’s a great asset to me.”

Attar, who studied with Israel Edelson in Jerusalem, Virginia Allen at the Juilliard School in New York City and Neil Thomson at the Royal College of Music in London, earned a doctor of music degree from McGill University and studied with renowned conductors such as Kurt Masur, Leonard Slatkin and Jorma Panula.

During his career, Attar has worked with multiple orchestras in North America, Europe and Israel, including the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Dohnanyi Orchestra Budapest, Hamburg Symphony Orchestra and the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra.

He is a first prize winner of the Duna Szimfonikus Conducting Competition Budapest, a multiple recipient of the Sir Georg Solti Foundation Award and a winner of the Bruno Walter Memorial Foundation Award.

Attar currently is music director of the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra in Bellingham, Wash., where he was awarded the Mayor’s Arts Award for his contribution to musical life in Bellingham. He also is an artistic partner with Northwest Sinfonietta in Seattle and music director of the Pennsylvania Chamber Orchestra.

During his tenure in Bellingham, the Symphony has seen major audience growth, a rise in donations and sponsorships and an increase in education and community activities. In 2015, Attar began a concert series in Bellingham, Harmony from Discord, which showcases the music of composers who wrote under duress and oppression.

Attar said the series was intended to bring a renewed interest to little known and rarely performed music, while furthering discussion about the use of art as a tool to transcend oppression and bring a message of hope and unity.

“When I was a doctorate student, I would feature composers whose music was banned, especially Jewish composers,” he said. “Some were written in concentration camps. I wanted to feature some of these works because it’s part of music history.”

Guest artist Bolshoy is a senior lecturer in the Hugh Hodgson School of Music at the University of Georgia, where he directs the guitar program. An Israeli Canadian guitarist, Bolshoy has been a soloist with more than 60 orchestras internationally.

Bolshoy also has performed at numerous chamber music festivals and concert series throughout North America, Europe, Russia, Asia and the Middle East. His recordings and live performances are often broadcast in CBC Radio, National Public Radio and numerous classical music stations.

“He’s a wonderful guitarist,” Attar said of Bolshoy. “The audience is in for a real treat. Classical guitar is not something featured very often with a symphony orchestra.”

Attar said he wants his Melodic Journey concert to be a fun experience for the audience.

“This specific concert is full of incredible melodies and highly rhythmic energy,” he said. “I want people to have fun with this concert and be smiling after experiencing live music again.”

Tickets for the concert may be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre box office at 785-827-1998 or online at <a href="http://www.salinasymphony.org">www.salinasymphony.org</a>. Single admission tickets are $29 or $39 for adults and $19 for students.

The Stiefel Theatre recently suspended their COVID-19 vaccine mandate for attendance to shows.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600020696291.jpeg" alt="Yaniv Attar. Photos courtesy Salina Symphony" />
 <figcaption>Yaniv Attar. Photos courtesy Salina Symphony</figcaption>
 </figure>By GARY DEMUTH For the Salina SymphonyA guitar teacher tuning up with Bach caused Yaniv Attar to fall in love with classical music.A native of Israel, Attar’s path to a career as a professional musician and orchestra conductor began with an acoustic guitar his mother bought him.“She wanted me to have some kind of music in my life,” Attar said. “All she could afford to buy me was a guitar, thinking I would play folk music.”During one of his first guitar lessons, the teacher began tuning Attar’s guitar by playing a classical piece by Johann Sebastian Bach. Attar was instantly smitten with the glorious sound he heard flowing from the instrument.“I told him that I wanted to learn this piece,” Attar said. “He told me that classical guitar was a very different way of teaching. I said I didn’t care; I have to learn this.”Through intense study, Attar eventually became an accomplished classical guitarist, becoming the first guitarist to win the Aviv Competition Prize in Israel and the first guitarist to win the Concerto Competition at the Juilliard School in New York City.Despite his success as a classical guitarist, conducting became Attar’s first love. He is the fourth of five finalists vying for the position of conductor and music director of the Salina Symphony. His concert, Melodic Journey, will be at 4 p.m. March 27 at the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, 151 S. Santa Fe.The program will include a performance of Tchaikovsky’s melodic and masterful Fifth Symphony, the Mexican influenced rhythms of Danzon No. 2 by Arturo Marquez and Joaquin Rodrigo’s soulful and poetic Concierto de Aranjuez, featuring classical guitarist Daniel Bolshoy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646760219291.jpeg" alt="Daniel Bolshoy" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Bolshoy</figcaption>
 </figure>Attar and Bolshoy will give a pre-concert talk beginning at 3 p.m. March 27 in the Stiefel Theatre Watson Room.“We are so delighted to present our music director finalists to our patrons and the community this season,” said Adrienne Allen, executive director of the Salina Symphony. “Our search begins an exciting new chapter for the Symphony.”Impressed by symphonyAttar said he researched the Salina Symphony before applying for the director position and was impressed with what he found.“I have conductor colleagues who told me great things about the Salina Symphony,” he said. “The community is very supportive of the orchestra. They also have been very organized in their search.”Attar is grateful to be one of five finalists for the position and invited to conduct a live concert with Salina Symphony musicians.“The real job of a conductor is what’s happening in rehearsals, what you hear, how you communicate with the orchestra and how you lead them,” he said.Attar said his primary goal as a conductor is to “build the sound of an orchestra” and to be a good collaborator.“I like to collaborate with the musicians to design a season together,” he said. “That’s a great asset to me.”Music educationAttar, who studied with Israel Edelson in Jerusalem, Virginia Allen at the Juilliard School in New York City and Neil Thomson at the Royal College of Music in London, earned a doctor of music degree from McGill University and studied with renowned conductors such as Kurt Masur, Leonard Slatkin and Jorma Panula.During his career, Attar has worked with multiple orchestras in North America, Europe and Israel, including the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Dohnanyi Orchestra Budapest, Hamburg Symphony Orchestra and the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra.He is a first prize winner of the Duna Szimfonikus Conducting Competition Budapest, a multiple recipient of the Sir Georg Solti Foundation Award and a winner of the Bruno Walter Memorial Foundation Award.Attar currently is music director of the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra in Bellingham, Wash., where he was awarded the Mayor’s Arts Award for his contribution to musical life in Bellingham. He also is an artistic partner with Northwest Sinfonietta in Seattle and music director of the Pennsylvania Chamber Orchestra.During his tenure in Bellingham, the Symphony has seen major audience growth, a rise in donations and sponsorships and an increase in education and community activities. In 2015, Attar began a concert series in Bellingham, Harmony from Discord, which showcases the music of composers who wrote under duress and oppression.Attar said the series was intended to bring a renewed interest to little known and rarely performed music, while furthering discussion about the use of art as a tool to transcend oppression and bring a message of hope and unity.“When I was a doctorate student, I would feature composers whose music was banned, especially Jewish composers,” he said. “Some were written in concentration camps. I wanted to feature some of these works because it’s part of music history.”Guest artistGuest artist Bolshoy is a senior lecturer in the Hugh Hodgson School of Music at the University of Georgia, where he directs the guitar program. An Israeli Canadian guitarist, Bolshoy has been a soloist with more than 60 orchestras internationally.Bolshoy also has performed at numerous chamber music festivals and concert series throughout North America, Europe, Russia, Asia and the Middle East. His recordings and live performances are often broadcast in CBC Radio, National Public Radio and numerous classical music stations.“He’s a wonderful guitarist,” Attar said of Bolshoy. “The audience is in for a real treat. Classical guitar is not something featured very often with a symphony orchestra.”Fun concertAttar said he wants his Melodic Journey concert to be a fun experience for the audience.“This specific concert is full of incredible melodies and highly rhythmic energy,” he said. “I want people to have fun with this concert and be smiling after experiencing live music again.”Tickets for the concert may be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre box office at 785-827-1998 or online at <a href="http://www.salinasymphony.org">www.salinasymphony.org</a>. Single admission tickets are $29 or $39 for adults and $19 for students.The Stiefel Theatre recently suspended their COVID-19 vaccine mandate for attendance to shows.

Salina Symphony: Guitar as a path to classical music

The National Weather Service in Wichita has placed Marion County in a red flag warning in effect from noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Extreme grassland fire danger is forecast. Winds are expected to be from the south at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. Relative humidity is forecast to be as low as 20 percent.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended. Any lingering hot spots or smoldering areas from yesterday`s prescribed burns will need to be closely monitored today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647431912584.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe National Weather Service in Wichita has placed Marion County in a red flag warning in effect from noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday.Extreme grassland fire danger is forecast. Winds are expected to be from the south at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. Relative humidity is forecast to be as low as 20 percent.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended. Any lingering hot spots or smoldering areas from yesterday`s prescribed burns will need to be closely monitored today.

NWS places Marion County in red flag warning for today

Today is Wednesday, March 16, the 75th day of 2022. There are 290 days left in the year.

On March 16, 1968, the My Lai massacre took place during the Vietnam War as U.S. Army soldiers hunting for Viet Cong fighters and sympathizers killed unarmed villagers in two hamlets of Son My village; estimates of the death toll vary from 347 to 504.

In 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his crew reached the Philippines, where Magellan was killed during a battle with natives the following month.

In 1802, President Thomas Jefferson signed a measure authorizing the establishment of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York.

In 1935, Adolf Hitler decided to break the military terms set by the Treaty of Versailles&nbsp; by ordering the rearming of Germany.

In 1945, during World War II, American forces declared they had secured Iwo Jima, although pockets of Japanese resistance remained.

In 1968, Senator Robert F. Kennedy of New York announced his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination.

In 1972, in a nationally broadcast address, President Richard Nixon called for a moratorium on court-ordered school busing to achieve racial desegregation.

In 1984, William Buckley, the CIA station chief in Beirut, was kidnapped by Hezbollah militants (he was tortured by his captors and killed in 1985).

In 1994, figure skater Tonya Harding pleaded guilty in Portland, Oregon, to conspiracy to hinder prosecution for covering up an attack on rival Nancy Kerrigan, avoiding jail but drawing a $100,000 fine.

In 2004, China declared victory in its fight against bird flu, saying it had "stamped out" all its known cases.

In 2014, Crimeans voted to leave Ukraine and join Russia, overwhelmingly approving a referendum that sought to unite the strategically important Black Sea region with the country it was part of for some 250 years.

In 2016, President Barack Obama nominated Merrick Garland to take the seat of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, who had died the previous month. (Republicans who controlled the Senate would stick to their pledge to leave the seat empty until after the presidential election; they confirmed Trump nominee Neil Gorsuch in April 2017.)

In 2020, global stocks plunged again amid coronavirus concerns, with Wall Street seeing a 12% decline, its worst in more than 30 years; the S&amp;P 500 was down 30% from its record set less than a month earlier. Ohio called off its presidential primary just hours before polls were to open, but Arizona, Florida and Illinois went ahead with their plans.

Ten years ago: A jury in New Brunswick, New Jersey, convicted former Rutgers University student Dharun Ravi in the webcam spying episode that ended in the suicide of his gay roommate, Tyler Clementi. (Ravi served 20 days in jail for invasion of privacy, bias intimidation and other counts.)

Five years ago: President Donald Trump submitted his $1.15 trillion budget to Congress; it proposed generous increases for the military while slashing domestic programs and riling both fellow Republicans and Democrats by going after favored programs. Steve Penny resigned as president of USA Gymnastics following intensified pressure on the organization for its handling of sex abuse cases.

One year ago: A gunman killed eight people, mostly women of Asian descent, at three Atlanta-area massage parlors in an attack that sent terror through the Asian-American community, which had increasingly been targeted during the pandemic; the white gunman, Robert Long, told police that the attack was not racially motivated, and that he had a "sex addiction." (Long was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty in four of the deaths.) A declassified intelligence assessment found that Russian President Vladimir Putin had authorized influence operations to help Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election; the assessment found broad efforts by both the Kremlin and Iran to shape the outcome of the race, but no evidence that any foreign actor had actually disrupted the voting process.

Today's Birthdays: Country singer Ray Walker (The Jordanaires) is 88. Game show host Chuck Woolery is 81. Country singer Robin Williams is 75. Actor Erik Estrada is 73. Actor Victor Garber is 73. Country singer Ray Benson (Asleep at the Wheel) is 71. Bluegrass musician Tim O'Brien (Hot Rize; Earls of Leicester) is 68. Rock singer-musician Nancy Wilson (Heart) is 68. World Golf Hall of Famer Hollis Stacy is 68. Actor Clifton Powell is 66. Rapper-actor Flavor Flav is 63. Rock musician Jimmy DeGrasso is 59. Actor Jerome Flynn is 59. Folk singer Patty Griffin is 58. Movie director Gore Verbinski is 58. Country singer Tracy Bonham is 55. Actor Lauren Graham is 55. Actor Judah Friedlander is 53. Actor Alan Tudyk is 51. Actor Tim Kang is 49. R&amp;B singer Blu Cantrell is 46. Actor Brooke Burns is 44. Actor Kimrie Lewis is 40. Actor Brett Davern is 39. Actor Alexandra Daddario is 36. R&amp;B singer Jhené Aiko is 34. Rock musician Wolfgang Van Halen is 31. Toronto Blue Jays baseball star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Wednesday, March 16, the 75th day of 2022. There are 290 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 16, 1968, the My Lai massacre took place during the Vietnam War as U.S. Army soldiers hunting for Viet Cong fighters and sympathizers killed unarmed villagers in two hamlets of Son My village; estimates of the death toll vary from 347 to 504.On this date:In 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his crew reached the Philippines, where Magellan was killed during a battle with natives the following month.In 1802, President Thomas Jefferson signed a measure authorizing the establishment of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York.In 1935, Adolf Hitler decided to break the military terms set by the Treaty of Versailles&nbsp; by ordering the rearming of Germany.In 1945, during World War II, American forces declared they had secured Iwo Jima, although pockets of Japanese resistance remained.In 1968, Senator Robert F. Kennedy of New York announced his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination.In 1972, in a nationally broadcast address, President Richard Nixon called for a moratorium on court-ordered school busing to achieve racial desegregation.In 1984, William Buckley, the CIA station chief in Beirut, was kidnapped by Hezbollah militants (he was tortured by his captors and killed in 1985).In 1994, figure skater Tonya Harding pleaded guilty in Portland, Oregon, to conspiracy to hinder prosecution for covering up an attack on rival Nancy Kerrigan, avoiding jail but drawing a $100,000 fine.In 2004, China declared victory in its fight against bird flu, saying it had "stamped out" all its known cases.In 2014, Crimeans voted to leave Ukraine and join Russia, overwhelmingly approving a referendum that sought to unite the strategically important Black Sea region with the country it was part of for some 250 years.In 2016, President Barack Obama nominated Merrick Garland to take the seat of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, who had died the previous month. (Republicans who controlled the Senate would stick to their pledge to leave the seat empty until after the presidential election; they confirmed Trump nominee Neil Gorsuch in April 2017.)In 2020, global stocks plunged again amid coronavirus concerns, with Wall Street seeing a 12% decline, its worst in more than 30 years; the S&amp;P 500 was down 30% from its record set less than a month earlier. Ohio called off its presidential primary just hours before polls were to open, but Arizona, Florida and Illinois went ahead with their plans.Ten years ago: A jury in New Brunswick, New Jersey, convicted former Rutgers University student Dharun Ravi in the webcam spying episode that ended in the suicide of his gay roommate, Tyler Clementi. (Ravi served 20 days in jail for invasion of privacy, bias intimidation and other counts.)Five years ago: President Donald Trump submitted his $1.15 trillion budget to Congress; it proposed generous increases for the military while slashing domestic programs and riling both fellow Republicans and Democrats by going after favored programs. Steve Penny resigned as president of USA Gymnastics following intensified pressure on the organization for its handling of sex abuse cases.One year ago: A gunman killed eight people, mostly women of Asian descent, at three Atlanta-area massage parlors in an attack that sent terror through the Asian-American community, which had increasingly been targeted during the pandemic; the white gunman, Robert Long, told police that the attack was not racially motivated, and that he had a "sex addiction." (Long was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty in four of the deaths.) A declassified intelligence assessment found that Russian President Vladimir Putin had authorized influence operations to help Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election; the assessment found broad efforts by both the Kremlin and Iran to shape the outcome of the race, but no evidence that any foreign actor had actually disrupted the voting process.Today's Birthdays: Country singer Ray Walker (The Jordanaires) is 88. Game show host Chuck Woolery is 81. Country singer Robin Williams is 75. Actor Erik Estrada is 73. Actor Victor Garber is 73. Country singer Ray Benson (Asleep at the Wheel) is 71. Bluegrass musician Tim O'Brien (Hot Rize; Earls of Leicester) is 68. Rock singer-musician Nancy Wilson (Heart) is 68. World Golf Hall of Famer Hollis Stacy is 68. Actor Clifton Powell is 66. Rapper-actor Flavor Flav is 63. Rock musician Jimmy DeGrasso is 59. Actor Jerome Flynn is 59. Folk singer Patty Griffin is 58. Movie director Gore Verbinski is 58. Country singer Tracy Bonham is 55. Actor Lauren Graham is 55. Actor Judah Friedlander is 53. Actor Alan Tudyk is 51. Actor Tim Kang is 49. R&amp;B singer Blu Cantrell is 46. Actor Brooke Burns is 44. Actor Kimrie Lewis is 40. Actor Brett Davern is 39. Actor Alexandra Daddario is 36. R&amp;B singer Jhené Aiko is 34. Rock musician Wolfgang Van Halen is 31. Toronto Blue Jays baseball star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is 23.

Today in History - March 16

CONCORDIA - Twenty-four&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;students were awarded $100,000 in scholarships from the Dane G. Hansen Scholarship fund at Cloud County Community College.

The scholarship is administered by the college, and 24 students were awarded scholarships for the 2022-2023 school year. The scholarship recipients are:

Debra Alvarado, Hardy, Neb.; Madeline Atkins, Concordia; Rusti Bassett, Belleville; Adam Brobst, Salina; Jonilyn Campbell, Kensington; Allie Danielson, Clyde; Lauren Eitel, Salina; Salma Fleming, Junction City; Cassandra Fremouw, Clay Center; Joseph Hopkins, Jamestown; Jessica Jaeger, Concordia; Samantha Johnson, Herington; Paula Kieffer, Clifton; Lydia Pachta, Cuba; Michelle Richardson, Linn; Lexie Roberg Paul, Beloit; Marijah Selbach, Beloit; Alexus Skocny, Belleville; Kassia Tauala-Kaharick, Junction City; Nicholas Titkemeier, Belleville; Mike Walker, Hardy, Neb.; Charley Watts, Beloit; Genelle Williamson, Minneapolis; Christine Zumbrunn, Americus.

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation aspires to enhance the quality of life throughout rural communities in northwest Kansas. The Foundation strongly supports the continuing education of rural community members, and will award scholarships to those who are willing to work in the 26 county service area of northwest Kansas upon graduation. Those who receive this scholarship must be currently enrolled in the CCCC&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;program. The scholarship will cover tuition, fees, books, and some miscellaneous expenses.

“We are extremely honored and grateful for the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation,” said Stefanie Perret, MSN, RN, director of&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;and allied health. “This scholarship fund helps support&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;education at Cloud County Community College fostering rural healthcare in our region.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647396812974.jpeg" alt="Cloud County Community College&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;students who received Dane G. Hansen scholarships are, back row, from left: Adam Brobst, Genelle Williamson, Christine Zumbrunn, Marijah Selbach, Samantha Johnson Ellsworth, Lexie Roberg Paul, Jessica Jaeger, Mike Walker, Joseph Hopkins; front row, from left: Rusty Bassett, Alexus Skocny, Lauren Eitel, Charley Watts, Alexandrea Danielson, Lydia Pachta, Debra Alvarado, Kasha Tauala. Photo courtesy Cloud County Community College" />
 <figcaption>Cloud County Community College&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;students who received Dane G. Hansen scholarships are, back row, from left: Adam Brobst, Genelle Williamson, Christine Zumbrunn, Marijah Selbach, Samantha Johnson Ellsworth, Lexie Roberg Paul, Jessica Jaeger, Mike Walker, Joseph Hopkins; front row, from left: Rusty Bassett, Alexus Skocny, Lauren Eitel, Charley Watts, Alexandrea Danielson, Lydia Pachta, Debra Alvarado, Kasha Tauala. Photo courtesy Cloud County Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>Cloud County Community CollegeCONCORDIA - Twenty-four&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;students were awarded $100,000 in scholarships from the Dane G. Hansen Scholarship fund at Cloud County Community College.The scholarship is administered by the college, and 24 students were awarded scholarships for the 2022-2023 school year. The scholarship recipients are:Debra Alvarado, Hardy, Neb.; Madeline Atkins, Concordia; Rusti Bassett, Belleville; Adam Brobst, Salina; Jonilyn Campbell, Kensington; Allie Danielson, Clyde; Lauren Eitel, Salina; Salma Fleming, Junction City; Cassandra Fremouw, Clay Center; Joseph Hopkins, Jamestown; Jessica Jaeger, Concordia; Samantha Johnson, Herington; Paula Kieffer, Clifton; Lydia Pachta, Cuba; Michelle Richardson, Linn; Lexie Roberg Paul, Beloit; Marijah Selbach, Beloit; Alexus Skocny, Belleville; Kassia Tauala-Kaharick, Junction City; Nicholas Titkemeier, Belleville; Mike Walker, Hardy, Neb.; Charley Watts, Beloit; Genelle Williamson, Minneapolis; Christine Zumbrunn, Americus.The Dane G. Hansen Foundation aspires to enhance the quality of life throughout rural communities in northwest Kansas. The Foundation strongly supports the continuing education of rural community members, and will award scholarships to those who are willing to work in the 26 county service area of northwest Kansas upon graduation. Those who receive this scholarship must be currently enrolled in the CCCC&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;program. The scholarship will cover tuition, fees, books, and some miscellaneous expenses.“We are extremely honored and grateful for the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation,” said Stefanie Perret, MSN, RN, director of&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;and allied health. “This scholarship fund helps support&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;education at Cloud County Community College fostering rural healthcare in our region.”

CCCC awards nursing scholarships

Russell Stover Hiring Full and Part time Positions

Competitive pay but wages may differ on positions.

Full-time positions have benefits as well as shift differential (Part-Time Relief Positions available).

Or to apply for these online or for a full listing of other positions, go to <a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>.

Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right of I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923. Russell Stover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Follow the hiring flags

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610422205593.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell Stover Hiring Full and Part time PositionsCompetitive pay but wages may differ on positions.●1st and 2nd Shift Machine Operators●1st and 2nd shift Candy Maker Cooks●1st and 2nd shift SupervisorsFull-time positions have benefits as well as shift differential (Part-Time Relief Positions available).Or to apply for these online or for a full listing of other positions, go to <a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>.Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right of I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923. Russell Stover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Follow the hiring flags

2 hospitalized in Salina after crash during attempted u-turn

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

A pedestrian bridge is being installed in a southeast Kansas park. This project did not involve any supply chain issues, because this bridge didn’t come on a slow boat from somewhere. This 60 foot long bridge was built from scratch and installed by a craftsman in rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Nancy Crum is the owner and operations manager of&nbsp;C Cross Custom Welding, the company that produced this 60 foot long pedestrian bridge. Her husband, Chip, primarily does the welding and fabrication. C Cross Custom Welding is based in the Elk County town of Howard.&nbsp;

Nancy grew up in the Howard area. Chip also lived in Colorado for a time before coming back to Howard. They met and were married.&nbsp;

“My grandpa was a blacksmith,” Chip said. “My dad was a farrier, a farmer and a carpenter,” he said. “One day when my dad was farming, the disk broke in the field. I welded it and it stayed together.”&nbsp;

Perhaps this showed that Chip had a gift for welding, although he didn’t have formal training.&nbsp;

“It came easy to me,” Chip said. “All I’ve had is on the job training. If you keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut, you can learn a lot.” Now, there’s some wise advice.&nbsp;

Nancy does bookkeeping for local businesses. “I worked with computers and I liked art,” Nancy said. Chip was working at a nearby rock quarry and dabbled in welding.&nbsp;

“His passion was doing welding and fabrication,” Nancy said. He started building gates and panels in the shop at home. They soon had the opportunity to purchase a building along the highway.&nbsp;

In 2014, C Cross Custom Welding began. The C Cross name comes from a family tradition. “That was my parents’ cattle brand,” Chip said. Nancy does the computer designs and Chip does the fabrication.&nbsp;

Today, C Cross Custom Welding specializes in creating custom-built metal products, such as specialized farm equipment, gate personalization, custom art and more. The C Cross website states: “We create products for government clients, rock quarries, parks, farms and ranches, industrial clients, and for our friends and neighbors.”&nbsp;

The sky is the limit for custom projects. “It’s all about the customer,” Chip said. “We do whatever the customer needs.”&nbsp;

His contacts at the rock quarries generated projects for them. “We do a lot of work for the rock quarries,” Chip said. Because of his familiarity with the equipment, he is good at repairing or modifying the crushers, conveyors and related equipment, as needed.&nbsp;

“I like doing the big iron,” Chip said.&nbsp;

“We have a CNC plasma table so we can cut parts for big equipment,” Nancy said.&nbsp;

They use mig and tig welders. Chip recently built 54 foot long heating coils for an asphalt plant in Wichita, and he's worked as far away as Kansas City.&nbsp;

Custom-built fire pits and benches have been popular. “I built a fire pit and gave it away for a local fundraiser,” Chip said. Now those have become quite a popular item as he can customize the cutouts in the design.&nbsp;

“Every time we start, it’s a challenge,” Nancy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Chip is very good at fabricating metal,” she said.&nbsp;

The demand for custom-made projects has snowballed. “When we got started, I had all these thoughts in my head of things I wanted to build. I haven’t gotten any of them done yet,” Chip said with a smile.&nbsp;

Recently people in Moline, Kan. asked C Cross Custom Welding to build a 60 foot long pedestrian bridge for the park along Highway 160. Chip got it built and installed.&nbsp;

It’s an impressive project for a small company based in the rural community of Howard, population 687 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cccwelding.com/" target="_blank">www.cccwelding.com</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time to leave southeast Kansas where a 60-foot long pedestrian bridge has been built and installed by this local craftsman. We commend the husband and wife team of Chip and Nancy Crum for making a difference with their entrepreneurship and creativity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their projects represent a bridge to opportunity.&nbsp;

Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.

For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623560862487.jpeg" alt="Ron Wilson. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State UniversityA pedestrian bridge is being installed in a southeast Kansas park. This project did not involve any supply chain issues, because this bridge didn’t come on a slow boat from somewhere. This 60 foot long bridge was built from scratch and installed by a craftsman in rural Kansas.&nbsp;Nancy Crum is the owner and operations manager of&nbsp;C Cross Custom Welding, the company that produced this 60 foot long pedestrian bridge. Her husband, Chip, primarily does the welding and fabrication. C Cross Custom Welding is based in the Elk County town of Howard.&nbsp;Nancy grew up in the Howard area. Chip also lived in Colorado for a time before coming back to Howard. They met and were married.&nbsp;“My grandpa was a blacksmith,” Chip said. “My dad was a farrier, a farmer and a carpenter,” he said. “One day when my dad was farming, the disk broke in the field. I welded it and it stayed together.”&nbsp;Perhaps this showed that Chip had a gift for welding, although he didn’t have formal training.&nbsp;“It came easy to me,” Chip said. “All I’ve had is on the job training. If you keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut, you can learn a lot.” Now, there’s some wise advice.&nbsp;Nancy does bookkeeping for local businesses. “I worked with computers and I liked art,” Nancy said. Chip was working at a nearby rock quarry and dabbled in welding.&nbsp;“His passion was doing welding and fabrication,” Nancy said. He started building gates and panels in the shop at home. They soon had the opportunity to purchase a building along the highway.&nbsp;In 2014, C Cross Custom Welding began. The C Cross name comes from a family tradition. “That was my parents’ cattle brand,” Chip said. Nancy does the computer designs and Chip does the fabrication.&nbsp;Today, C Cross Custom Welding specializes in creating custom-built metal products, such as specialized farm equipment, gate personalization, custom art and more. The C Cross website states: “We create products for government clients, rock quarries, parks, farms and ranches, industrial clients, and for our friends and neighbors.”&nbsp;The sky is the limit for custom projects. “It’s all about the customer,” Chip said. “We do whatever the customer needs.”&nbsp;His contacts at the rock quarries generated projects for them. “We do a lot of work for the rock quarries,” Chip said. Because of his familiarity with the equipment, he is good at repairing or modifying the crushers, conveyors and related equipment, as needed.&nbsp;“I like doing the big iron,” Chip said.&nbsp;“We have a CNC plasma table so we can cut parts for big equipment,” Nancy said.&nbsp;They use mig and tig welders. Chip recently built 54 foot long heating coils for an asphalt plant in Wichita, and he's worked as far away as Kansas City.&nbsp;Custom-built fire pits and benches have been popular. “I built a fire pit and gave it away for a local fundraiser,” Chip said. Now those have become quite a popular item as he can customize the cutouts in the design.&nbsp;“Every time we start, it’s a challenge,” Nancy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Chip is very good at fabricating metal,” she said.&nbsp;The demand for custom-made projects has snowballed. “When we got started, I had all these thoughts in my head of things I wanted to build. I haven’t gotten any of them done yet,” Chip said with a smile.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647395905173.jpeg" alt="Chip Crum at work. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Chip Crum at work. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>Recently people in Moline, Kan. asked C Cross Custom Welding to build a 60 foot long pedestrian bridge for the park along Highway 160. Chip got it built and installed.&nbsp;It’s an impressive project for a small company based in the rural community of Howard, population 687 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cccwelding.com/" target="_blank">www.cccwelding.com</a>.&nbsp;It’s time to leave southeast Kansas where a 60-foot long pedestrian bridge has been built and installed by this local craftsman. We commend the husband and wife team of Chip and Nancy Crum for making a difference with their entrepreneurship and creativity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their projects represent a bridge to opportunity.&nbsp;Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.

NOW THAT'S RURAL: Nancy and Chip Crum, C Cross Custom Welding

By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H Club reporter

Informative talks, vocal solos, instrumental ensembles, and demonstrations, oh my!&nbsp;

Members of the Smoky View 4-H Club were busy competing at the Central Kansas District (CKD) Club Days on Saturday, March 5. Members either submitted a video of their presentation or competed at the event in-person at Salina South Middle School.

Twelve members competed in 17 events, and five of those events qualified for the regional Club Day competition that will be on Saturday, March 26 in Clay Center.&nbsp;

Smoky View 4-H Club members also participated in the CKD 4-H Quiz Bowl on Saturday, Feb. 19 at the K-State Campus in Salina. Eleven club members competed with each other and against 4-H members from other district 4-H clubs. The club won second place in the competition.

On Feb. 27, the Smoky View 4-H Club found out what fair themes the Tri-Rivers Fair Board and Ottawa County Fair Board had chosen for the year. The Ottawa County Fair Board chose “Blue Jeans and Country Dreams” and the Tri-Rivers Fair Board chose the theme “Fancy Like… Fair Life!” The club learned this at its February club meeting held at the Salemsborg Fellowship Center and online.&nbsp;

At this meeting, club members who participated in this year’s CKD 4-H model meeting competition were awarded with blue ribbons. The club was able to move on to the regional model meeting competition.

Club members Eian Pracht, Maia Pracht, and Acacia Pracht presented a reading of a chapter of the book The Strange Case of Origami Yoda to the club.

The Smoky View 4-H Club plans to meet again on March 20 at the Salemsborg Fellowship Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647393840726.jpeg" alt="Smoky View 4-H Club members competed in the Central Kansas District 4-H Quiz Bowl at the K-State Salina campus on Feb. 19. Photo courtesy Eian Pracht" />
 <figcaption>Smoky View 4-H Club members competed in the Central Kansas District 4-H Quiz Bowl at the K-State Salina campus on Feb. 19. Photo courtesy Eian Pracht</figcaption>
 </figure>By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H Club reporter Informative talks, vocal solos, instrumental ensembles, and demonstrations, oh my!&nbsp;Members of the Smoky View 4-H Club were busy competing at the Central Kansas District (CKD) Club Days on Saturday, March 5. Members either submitted a video of their presentation or competed at the event in-person at Salina South Middle School.Twelve members competed in 17 events, and five of those events qualified for the regional Club Day competition that will be on Saturday, March 26 in Clay Center.&nbsp;Smoky View 4-H Club members also participated in the CKD 4-H Quiz Bowl on Saturday, Feb. 19 at the K-State Campus in Salina. Eleven club members competed with each other and against 4-H members from other district 4-H clubs. The club won second place in the competition.On Feb. 27, the Smoky View 4-H Club found out what fair themes the Tri-Rivers Fair Board and Ottawa County Fair Board had chosen for the year. The Ottawa County Fair Board chose “Blue Jeans and Country Dreams” and the Tri-Rivers Fair Board chose the theme “Fancy Like… Fair Life!” The club learned this at its February club meeting held at the Salemsborg Fellowship Center and online.&nbsp;At this meeting, club members who participated in this year’s CKD 4-H model meeting competition were awarded with blue ribbons. The club was able to move on to the regional model meeting competition.Club members Eian Pracht, Maia Pracht, and Acacia Pracht presented a reading of a chapter of the book The Strange Case of Origami Yoda to the club.The Smoky View 4-H Club plans to meet again on March 20 at the Salemsborg Fellowship Center.

Smoky View 4-H Club members compete in District Club Days, Quiz Bowl 

Gusty south winds and low relative humidity will elevate the grassland fire danger into the very high to extreme category for parts of southern Kansas on Wednesday afternoon. 

Be mindful of anything that may cause a spark. In addition, be sure that any fires that were started on Tuesday are put out and monitored for redevelopment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647391553496.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceGusty south winds and low relative humidity will elevate the grassland fire danger into the very high to extreme category for parts of southern Kansas on Wednesday afternoon. Be mindful of anything that may cause a spark. In addition, be sure that any fires that were started on Tuesday are put out and monitored for redevelopment.

Extreme fire danger to our south on Wednesday

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent obituaries

Although several Dickinson County offices now are back in the renovated courthouse, other departments are going to wait a little longer.

While the top floor of the courthouse is now occupied by the offices that moved in last week, work is still being completed on the main floor and basement. That means the offices temporarily located in the Abilene Civic Center and other locations will not return to the courthouse until early April.

Originally, plans called for the remainder of the offices to move on March 21; however, during a meeting with project managers last week it was learned that move-in date was a little premature.

“We did not feel it was going to be ready in two weeks,” County Administrator Brad Homman told commissioners during their March 10 meeting. “If we put it off a couple of weeks we think we’ll have cleaning done and construction crews will be out and gone. Everything will be new, nobody will be in the way and we can do it properly.”

Carpet still needs to be installed on the main floor and final electrical work completed. Outside, landscape work still needs to be completed, but the parking lot lights are operational, making it easier for jail staff and others who work at night.

The top floor of the courthouse is open to the public.

“When people come into the courthouse they need to come into the new entrance, go up the east stairs or take the elevator to get to the top floor and then exit the same way,” Homman said.

The west staircase currently is blocked off – to be used as a fire exit only – “so people are not coming through what’s left of the construction,” Homman explained.

Dickinson County District Court, Community Corrections and Court Services moved from its temporary location at Sterl Hall last week onto the top floor of the courthouse where the former jail was located.

Homman said one of the main reasons for moving the top floor offices first was so district court could get moved out of Sterl Hall as soon as possible.

“We need to get Sterl Hall back to the (Central Kansas Free) fair board,” Homman said. “They have a lot of events scheduled they want to get going.”

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County Public Information coordinatorAlthough several Dickinson County offices now are back in the renovated courthouse, other departments are going to wait a little longer.While the top floor of the courthouse is now occupied by the offices that moved in last week, work is still being completed on the main floor and basement. That means the offices temporarily located in the Abilene Civic Center and other locations will not return to the courthouse until early April.Originally, plans called for the remainder of the offices to move on March 21; however, during a meeting with project managers last week it was learned that move-in date was a little premature.“We did not feel it was going to be ready in two weeks,” County Administrator Brad Homman told commissioners during their March 10 meeting. “If we put it off a couple of weeks we think we’ll have cleaning done and construction crews will be out and gone. Everything will be new, nobody will be in the way and we can do it properly.”Carpet still needs to be installed on the main floor and final electrical work completed. Outside, landscape work still needs to be completed, but the parking lot lights are operational, making it easier for jail staff and others who work at night.Top floor openThe top floor of the courthouse is open to the public.“When people come into the courthouse they need to come into the new entrance, go up the east stairs or take the elevator to get to the top floor and then exit the same way,” Homman said.The west staircase currently is blocked off – to be used as a fire exit only – “so people are not coming through what’s left of the construction,” Homman explained.Dickinson County District Court, Community Corrections and Court Services moved from its temporary location at Sterl Hall last week onto the top floor of the courthouse where the former jail was located.Homman said one of the main reasons for moving the top floor offices first was so district court could get moved out of Sterl Hall as soon as possible.“We need to get Sterl Hall back to the (Central Kansas Free) fair board,” Homman said. “They have a lot of events scheduled they want to get going.”The Dickinson County Attorney’s Office moved from the building at 201 E. First Street into the top floor of the courthouse in the area where the court offices were located. That office building will be demolished later this month.As for last week’s move, Homman thanked everyone involved for being patient, “stepping up and going above and beyond.”An open house is planned, but has not yet been scheduled.Homman said he wants every department to have a couple weeks after the final move in to have time to “settle in” a bit.Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson thanked the department heads and county staff, noting the courthouse renovation has been a challenge, but now that the project is nearing completion, he applauded them for all they have done.“I also want to thank the public. There were probably times where it was trying for them to figure out what location they should be at (with offices spread out at different locations),” Peterson said. “But we should have everything wrapped up completely here in a few weeks.”

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