The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that open gallery seating is being made available for their annual banquet and membership meeting April 8 featuring Jay Leno, comedian, television host, and car enthusiast.

The cost of the gallery seating, located on the north side of the arena, is $35 per person. No dinner will be served with gallery seating.

The banquet will be held in the Arena of the Tony’s Pizza Events Center. There are still a few dinner tickets available, they are on sale now to chamber members for $65 per person, and $90 per person to the general public. The Membership Networking Reception will be held from 3-5:45 p.m. in Great Plains Manufacturing Hall of TPEC. The reception has been customized this year with a car show featuring an array of very special automobiles owned by chamber members and sponsored by Holm Automotive Salina/Abilene.

The banquet will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner in the arena. The program will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. with remarks by outgoing Chamber Board Chair Jeff Maes, incoming Board Chair Travis Young, and the address by Jay Leno.

There is an artist COVID policy in requiring proof of full vaccination or proof of negative test within 48 hours prior to the event. The chamber is partnering with Salina Family Healthcare Care for those requiring testing. Tickets will be reserved on a first-come first-served basis. To order dinner or gallery tickets, persons can call the chamber at 785-827-9301, email Sandy Cole, <a href="mailto:scole@salinakansas.org">scole@salinakansas.org</a>, or stop by the chamber office, 120 W. Ash Street.

A special partnership Leno will be in Salina through a partnership between the chamber, the Stiefel Theatre, and The Garage. Leno’s presentation to the chamber banquet attendees will center on his business experiences and motor hobbies. Following the chamber banquet, Leno will perform a stand-up show at the Stiefel Theatre in downtown Salina. Tickets for the Stiefel performance may be purchased by contacting the Stiefel at 785-827-1998 or at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/tickets">www.stiefeltheatre.org/tickets</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647354361084.jpeg" alt="Jay Leno. Photo courtesy Salina Area Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Jay Leno. Photo courtesy Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Area Chamber of CommerceThe Salina Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that open gallery seating is being made available for their annual banquet and membership meeting April 8 featuring Jay Leno, comedian, television host, and car enthusiast.The cost of the gallery seating, located on the north side of the arena, is $35 per person. No dinner will be served with gallery seating.The banquet will be held in the Arena of the Tony’s Pizza Events Center. There are still a few dinner tickets available, they are on sale now to chamber members for $65 per person, and $90 per person to the general public. The Membership Networking Reception will be held from 3-5:45 p.m. in Great Plains Manufacturing Hall of TPEC. The reception has been customized this year with a car show featuring an array of very special automobiles owned by chamber members and sponsored by Holm Automotive Salina/Abilene.The banquet will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner in the arena. The program will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. with remarks by outgoing Chamber Board Chair Jeff Maes, incoming Board Chair Travis Young, and the address by Jay Leno.There is an artist COVID policy in requiring proof of full vaccination or proof of negative test within 48 hours prior to the event. The chamber is partnering with Salina Family Healthcare Care for those requiring testing. Tickets will be reserved on a first-come first-served basis. To order dinner or gallery tickets, persons can call the chamber at 785-827-9301, email Sandy Cole, <a href="mailto:scole@salinakansas.org">scole@salinakansas.org</a>, or stop by the chamber office, 120 W. Ash Street.A special partnership Leno will be in Salina through a partnership between the chamber, the Stiefel Theatre, and The Garage. Leno’s presentation to the chamber banquet attendees will center on his business experiences and motor hobbies. Following the chamber banquet, Leno will perform a stand-up show at the Stiefel Theatre in downtown Salina. Tickets for the Stiefel performance may be purchased by contacting the Stiefel at 785-827-1998 or at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/tickets">www.stiefeltheatre.org/tickets</a>.

Gallery seating available for chamber banquet featuring Jay Leno

Saint Francis Ministries announced today the appointment of three new members to the Board of Directors.

The Rev. Brock Slabach, Heather Zdancewicz, MBA, and The Rev. Carissa Baldwin-McGinnis respectively bring extensive experience in health care, finance, and social justice to their new responsibilities.

“We are pleased to welcome Brock, Heather and Carissa to the Saint Francis Ministries board,” said Greg Meissen, board president. “Along with their practical experience that supports our work, they are committed to making the lives of children and families better. At the center of the board’s work is our vision of transforming lives and systems, and we proactively focus on continual improvement to seek the best for those we serve.”

Carissa Baldwin-McGinnis received a call to the priesthood while working in the field of International Human Rights. This led her to undergo formation as a faith-based community organizer in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas and later priestly formation in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. Carissa served three congregations in Texas and Los Angeles before initiating Northside Episcopal Church, a church plant in central Houston. She has worked as a consultant to faith-based organizations doing social justice work, including Houston reVision, which is breaking the cycle of isolation for system-affected youth.&nbsp;Carissa and her spouse are the foster and adoptive parents of three children.

Chief operating officer for the National Rural Health Association, Brock Slabach has served in hospital administration for more than 21 years and has served on the board of the NRHA and American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board. Also an ordained Episcopal deacon, he is canonically resident in the Diocese of West Missouri. Brock earned his Master of Public Health degree in health administration from the University of Oklahoma and is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Currently serving as vice president of finance and administration for the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Heather Zdancewicz has also worked in the same capacity for the Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Va. Besides serving on boards for Kanuga Conference Center and the Episcopal Evangelism Society, she has also served on the Endowment Committee at All Saints Episcopal Church in Austin, Texas.

Saint Francis MinistriesSaint Francis Ministries announced today the appointment of three new members to the Board of Directors.The Rev. Brock Slabach, Heather Zdancewicz, MBA, and The Rev. Carissa Baldwin-McGinnis respectively bring extensive experience in health care, finance, and social justice to their new responsibilities.“We are pleased to welcome Brock, Heather and Carissa to the Saint Francis Ministries board,” said Greg Meissen, board president. “Along with their practical experience that supports our work, they are committed to making the lives of children and families better. At the center of the board’s work is our vision of transforming lives and systems, and we proactively focus on continual improvement to seek the best for those we serve.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647306588257.png" alt="Carissa Baldwin-Mcginnis. Photos courtesy Saint Francis Ministries" />
 <figcaption>Carissa Baldwin-Mcginnis. Photos courtesy Saint Francis Ministries</figcaption>
 </figure>Carissa Baldwin-McGinnis received a call to the priesthood while working in the field of International Human Rights. This led her to undergo formation as a faith-based community organizer in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas and later priestly formation in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. Carissa served three congregations in Texas and Los Angeles before initiating Northside Episcopal Church, a church plant in central Houston. She has worked as a consultant to faith-based organizations doing social justice work, including Houston reVision, which is breaking the cycle of isolation for system-affected youth.&nbsp;Carissa and her spouse are the foster and adoptive parents of three children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647306748094.jpeg" alt="Brock Slabach" />
 <figcaption>Brock Slabach</figcaption>
 </figure>Chief operating officer for the National Rural Health Association, Brock Slabach has served in hospital administration for more than 21 years and has served on the board of the NRHA and American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board. Also an ordained Episcopal deacon, he is canonically resident in the Diocese of West Missouri. Brock earned his Master of Public Health degree in health administration from the University of Oklahoma and is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647306795734.png" alt="Heather Zdancewicz" />
 <figcaption>Heather Zdancewicz</figcaption>
 </figure>Currently serving as vice president of finance and administration for the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Heather Zdancewicz has also worked in the same capacity for the Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Va. Besides serving on boards for Kanuga Conference Center and the Episcopal Evangelism Society, she has also served on the Endowment Committee at All Saints Episcopal Church in Austin, Texas.

Saint Francis Ministries announces 3 new board members

Beginning Monday, March 21, the Kansas Department of Transportation will close the eastbound ramp on I-70 at Rain Road, exit 286, in Dickinson County to begin replacement of the eastbound bridge over Chapman Creek.

Construction will take place during daylight hours and traffic will be reduced to one 16.5-foot lane at a reduced speed of 60 mph through the work zone. Traffic will follow a signed detour utilizing exit 281. Drivers should expect delays of up to ten minutes.

Reece Construction of Salina is the primary contractor for this $5.7 million project. The contractor has scheduled bridge replacements to be completed by November 2022.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a work zone.&nbsp;Check <a href="http://kandrive.org">kandrive.org</a> for updates and more information.

KDOTBeginning Monday, March 21, the Kansas Department of Transportation will close the eastbound ramp on I-70 at Rain Road, exit 286, in Dickinson County to begin replacement of the eastbound bridge over Chapman Creek.Construction will take place during daylight hours and traffic will be reduced to one 16.5-foot lane at a reduced speed of 60 mph through the work zone. Traffic will follow a signed detour utilizing exit 281. Drivers should expect delays of up to ten minutes.Reece Construction of Salina is the primary contractor for this $5.7 million project. The contractor has scheduled bridge replacements to be completed by November 2022.KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a work zone.&nbsp;Check <a href="http://kandrive.org">kandrive.org</a> for updates and more information.

I-70 ramp to be closed at Chapman for bridge replacement

Today is Tuesday, March 15, the 74th day of 2022. There are 291 days left in the year.

On March 15, 44 B.C., Roman dictator Julius Caesar was assassinated by a group of nobles that included Brutus and Cassius.

In 1493, Italian explorer Christopher Columbus arrived back in the Spanish harbor of Palos de la Frontera, two months after concluding his first voyage to the Western Hemisphere.

In 1917, Czar Nicholas II abdicated in favor of his brother, Grand Duke Mikhail Alexandrovich, who declined the crown, marking the end of imperial rule in Russia.

In 1919, members of the American Expeditionary Force from World War I convened in Paris for a three-day meeting to found the American Legion.

In 1944, during World War II, Allied bombers again raided German-held Monte Cassino.

In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson, addressing a joint session of Congress, called for new legislation to guarantee every American's right to vote; the result was passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In 1972, "The Godfather," Francis Ford Coppola's epic gangster movie based on the Mario Puzo novel and starring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, premiered in New York.

In 1977, the situation comedy "Three's Company," starring John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers, premiered on ABC-TV.

In 2005, former WorldCom chief Bernard Ebbers was convicted in New York of engineering the largest corporate fraud in U.S. history. (He was later sentenced to 25 years in prison.)

In 2011, the Syrian civil war had its beginnings with Arab Spring protests across the region that turned into an armed insurgency and eventually became a full-blown conflict.

In 2019, a gunman killed 51 people at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, streaming the massacre live on Facebook. (Brenton Tarrant, an Australian white supremacist, was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to 51 counts of murder and other charges.)

In 2020, the Federal Reserve took massive emergency action to help the economy withstand the coronavirus by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero and saying it would buy $700 billion in treasury and mortgage bonds. After initially trying to keep schools open, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said the nation's largest public school system would close in hopes of curbing the spread of the coronavirus.

Ten years ago: Convicted former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich walked into a federal prison in Colorado, where the 55-year-old Democrat began serving a 14-year sentence for corruption. (He was released in February 2020 after President Donald Trump commuted his sentence.) The American campaign in Afghanistan suffered a double blow as the Taliban broke off talks with the U.S., and President Hamid Karzai said NATO should pull out of rural areas and speed up the transfer of security responsibilities to Afghan forces nationwide.

Five years ago: President Donald Trump, speaking in Ypsilanti, Michigan, announced that his administration would re-examine federal requirements governing the fuel efficiency of cars and trucks, moving forcefully against Obama-era environmental regulations that Trump said were stifling economic growth; Trump then flew to Nashville to lay a wreath at the tomb of President Andrew Jackson. For the second time, a federal court blocked Trump's efforts to freeze immigration by refugees and citizens of some predominantly Muslim nations.

One year ago: A poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 42% of Republicans said they probably or definitely would not be vaccinated against COVID, compared with 17% of Democrats. The Senate confirmed New Mexico Rep. Deb Haaland as interior secretary, making her the first Native American to lead a Cabinet department. Academy Award nominees included two female directors for the first time, Emerald Fennell for "Promising Young Woman" and Chloé Zhao (the eventual winner) for "Nomadland." Actor Yaphet Kotto, whose films included "Midnight Run," the James Bond movie "Live and Let Die" and "Alien," died in the Philippines at 81.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Judd Hirsch is 87. Jazz musician Charles Lloyd is 84. Rock musician Phil Lesh is 82. Singer Mike Love (The Beach Boys) is 81. Rock singer-musician Sly Stone is 79. Rock singer-musician Howard Scott (War; Lowrider Band) is 76. Rock singer Ry Cooder is 75. Actor Frances Conroy is 69. Actor Craig Wasson is 68. Rock singer Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) is 67. Actor Joaquim de Almeida is 65. Actor Park Overall is 65. Movie director Renny Harlin is 63. Model Fabio is 61. Singer Terence Trent D'Arby (AKA Sananda Maitreya) is 60. Rock singer Bret Michaels (Poison) is 59. R&amp;B singer Rockwell is 58. Actor Chris Bruno is 56. Actor Kim Raver is 55. Rock singer Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray) is 54. Rock musician Mark Hoppus is 50. Country singer-musician Matt Thomas (Parmalee) is 48. Actor Eva Longoria is 47. Rapper-musician will.i.am (Black Eyed Peas) is 47. Rock DJ Joseph Hahn (Linkin Park) is 45. Rapper Young Buck is 41. Actor Sean Biggerstaff is 39. Actor Kellan Lutz is 37. Actor Caitlin Wachs is 33.

<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 Tuesday, March 15, the 74th day of 2022. There are 291 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 15, 44 B.C., Roman dictator Julius Caesar was assassinated by a group of nobles that included Brutus and Cassius.On this date:In 1493, Italian explorer Christopher Columbus arrived back in the Spanish harbor of Palos de la Frontera, two months after concluding his first voyage to the Western Hemisphere.In 1820, Maine became the 23rd state.In 1917, Czar Nicholas II abdicated in favor of his brother, Grand Duke Mikhail Alexandrovich, who declined the crown, marking the end of imperial rule in Russia.In 1919, members of the American Expeditionary Force from World War I convened in Paris for a three-day meeting to found the American Legion.In 1944, during World War II, Allied bombers again raided German-held Monte Cassino.In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson, addressing a joint session of Congress, called for new legislation to guarantee every American's right to vote; the result was passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.In 1972, "The Godfather," Francis Ford Coppola's epic gangster movie based on the Mario Puzo novel and starring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, premiered in New York.In 1977, the situation comedy "Three's Company," starring John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers, premiered on ABC-TV.In 2005, former WorldCom chief Bernard Ebbers was convicted in New York of engineering the largest corporate fraud in U.S. history. (He was later sentenced to 25 years in prison.)In 2011, the Syrian civil war had its beginnings with Arab Spring protests across the region that turned into an armed insurgency and eventually became a full-blown conflict.In 2019, a gunman killed 51 people at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, streaming the massacre live on Facebook. (Brenton Tarrant, an Australian white supremacist, was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to 51 counts of murder and other charges.)In 2020, the Federal Reserve took massive emergency action to help the economy withstand the coronavirus by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero and saying it would buy $700 billion in treasury and mortgage bonds. After initially trying to keep schools open, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said the nation's largest public school system would close in hopes of curbing the spread of the coronavirus.Ten years ago: Convicted former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich walked into a federal prison in Colorado, where the 55-year-old Democrat began serving a 14-year sentence for corruption. (He was released in February 2020 after President Donald Trump commuted his sentence.) The American campaign in Afghanistan suffered a double blow as the Taliban broke off talks with the U.S., and President Hamid Karzai said NATO should pull out of rural areas and speed up the transfer of security responsibilities to Afghan forces nationwide.Five years ago: President Donald Trump, speaking in Ypsilanti, Michigan, announced that his administration would re-examine federal requirements governing the fuel efficiency of cars and trucks, moving forcefully against Obama-era environmental regulations that Trump said were stifling economic growth; Trump then flew to Nashville to lay a wreath at the tomb of President Andrew Jackson. For the second time, a federal court blocked Trump's efforts to freeze immigration by refugees and citizens of some predominantly Muslim nations.One year ago: A poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 42% of Republicans said they probably or definitely would not be vaccinated against COVID, compared with 17% of Democrats. The Senate confirmed New Mexico Rep. Deb Haaland as interior secretary, making her the first Native American to lead a Cabinet department. Academy Award nominees included two female directors for the first time, Emerald Fennell for "Promising Young Woman" and Chloé Zhao (the eventual winner) for "Nomadland." Actor Yaphet Kotto, whose films included "Midnight Run," the James Bond movie "Live and Let Die" and "Alien," died in the Philippines at 81.Today's Birthdays: Actor Judd Hirsch is 87. Jazz musician Charles Lloyd is 84. Rock musician Phil Lesh is 82. Singer Mike Love (The Beach Boys) is 81. Rock singer-musician Sly Stone is 79. Rock singer-musician Howard Scott (War; Lowrider Band) is 76. Rock singer Ry Cooder is 75. Actor Frances Conroy is 69. Actor Craig Wasson is 68. Rock singer Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) is 67. Actor Joaquim de Almeida is 65. Actor Park Overall is 65. Movie director Renny Harlin is 63. Model Fabio is 61. Singer Terence Trent D'Arby (AKA Sananda Maitreya) is 60. Rock singer Bret Michaels (Poison) is 59. R&amp;B singer Rockwell is 58. Actor Chris Bruno is 56. Actor Kim Raver is 55. Rock singer Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray) is 54. Rock musician Mark Hoppus is 50. Country singer-musician Matt Thomas (Parmalee) is 48. Actor Eva Longoria is 47. Rapper-musician will.i.am (Black Eyed Peas) is 47. Rock DJ Joseph Hahn (Linkin Park) is 45. Rapper Young Buck is 41. Actor Sean Biggerstaff is 39. Actor Kellan Lutz is 37. Actor Caitlin Wachs is 33.

Today in History - March 15

Owner Jason Bathon told Salina Post that the PC repair, information technology, and security company has purchased CompuDoc. 

Also a provider of PC repair, CompuDoc originally began under the ownership of Michael Lamia in 2004. In 2012, Lamia sold the business to Matt Ortiz. Bathon said the acquisition began when Ortiz reached out to Bathon. Ortiz was planning to take a position with another company and did not want to leave any of his clients without "a quality source for PC repairs and IT support," Bathon said.

“We would like to welcome the CompuDoc clients to the JAB IT LLC family and assist with a smooth transition,” Bathon said. “CompuDoc has a long history in the area of exceptional PC repair and service, and we will continue providing the same services and more while maintaining the level of excellency for which we are known.” 

Bathon said that the acquisition of CompuDoc fits into JAB IT LLC’s corporate strategy to provide central Kansas and beyond with the best computer, IT and security products and services around.

"By purchasing CompuDoc, JAB IT LLC can reach a wider client base, increase their market share, and be able to continue their growth in the area. JAB IT LLC also strives to give back to the community and this acquisition will help to fulfill those endeavors," Bathon explained.

About JAB IT LLC JAB IT PC began as a home business in 2017 and has grown exponentially into a full retail computer, security, and electronics store at 2680 Planet Avenue. JAB IT PC incorporated to JAB IT LLC in May of 2021. JAB IT LLC Mission statement: “At JAB IT LLC we pride ourselves on providing our clients with the best quality IT &amp; Security components and unparalleled customer service."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647308439941.jpeg" alt="The JAB IT store at 2680 Planet Avenue. Photo courtesy JAB IT" />
 <figcaption>The JAB IT store at 2680 Planet Avenue. Photo courtesy JAB IT</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTJAB IT LLC is growing.Owner Jason Bathon told Salina Post that the PC repair, information technology, and security company has purchased CompuDoc. Also a provider of PC repair, CompuDoc originally began under the ownership of Michael Lamia in 2004. In 2012, Lamia sold the business to Matt Ortiz. Bathon said the acquisition began when Ortiz reached out to Bathon. Ortiz was planning to take a position with another company and did not want to leave any of his clients without "a quality source for PC repairs and IT support," Bathon said.“We would like to welcome the CompuDoc clients to the JAB IT LLC family and assist with a smooth transition,” Bathon said. “CompuDoc has a long history in the area of exceptional PC repair and service, and we will continue providing the same services and more while maintaining the level of excellency for which we are known.” Bathon said that the acquisition of CompuDoc fits into JAB IT LLC’s corporate strategy to provide central Kansas and beyond with the best computer, IT and security products and services around."By purchasing CompuDoc, JAB IT LLC can reach a wider client base, increase their market share, and be able to continue their growth in the area. JAB IT LLC also strives to give back to the community and this acquisition will help to fulfill those endeavors," Bathon explained.About JAB IT LLC JAB IT PC began as a home business in 2017 and has grown exponentially into a full retail computer, security, and electronics store at 2680 Planet Avenue. JAB IT PC incorporated to JAB IT LLC in May of 2021. JAB IT LLC Mission statement: “At JAB IT LLC we pride ourselves on providing our clients with the best quality IT &amp; Security components and unparalleled customer service."

JAB IT LLC acquires CompuDoc

A request to raise salaries in the county attorney's office and the widening of a portion of Old Highway 81 are among the items on the Saline County Commission agenda for Tuesday.

Saline County Commission is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street. The meetings also can be viewed on Saline County’s YouTube channel:

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA</a>.

To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link. Use the following link and put in the Meeting ID and passcode:

<a href="https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09">https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09</a>

For further information, contact the County Commission’s Office at (785) 309-5825.

Saline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel, in a letter to county commissioners, is proposing the following raises for positions in the county attorney's office.

Ebel, citing unsuccessful attempts to fill two vacant positions, told commissioners that higher salaries were needed in order for the positions to be competitive.

"I have interviewed only four attorneys since August of 2021. Two of the attorneys were people I sought out and were not random applicants. They both declined the offer citing the low salary as a reason why. Only two applicants were from advertising. I offered the position to one who declined due to low salary. The other I offered at the normal starting salary of $57,000 to $60,000, and they said that they would not accept at that rate," Ebel told commissioners in his letter.

Ebel also noted that an attorney who left the office in December cited low pay as the reason for leaving.

Commissioners also are scheduled to consider a request to award the bid for the county's south Old 81 Highway widening and overlay project. The project would include widening by three feet each side of Old 81 from the Interstate 135 exit at Bridgeport north to Assaria Road. After the highway is widened, a two-inch asphalt overlay is to be placed over the existing roadway and the widened surface.

The county received one bid for the project from APAC-Kansas. Staff is recommending that commissioners award the bid to APAC-Kansas for the $1,151,135.25.

Other items on the county agenda for Tuesday include the following.

●Consider a request from the Road and Bridge Department to purchase a wheel loader.

●Hear a financial projection from County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes.

Additionally, commissioners are scheduled to meet in executive session at the conclusion of the meeting to discuss a non-elected personnel matter.

To see the full Saline County Commission meeting packet for Tuesday (a 20-page pdf), <a href="https://www.saline.org/Portals/0/Content/Commissioners/Documents/Agenda/Current/20220315.pdf?ver=5PGPED_sg6rrb0gbvd2eWA%3d%3d">click here</a>.

By SALINA POSTA request to raise salaries in the county attorney's office and the widening of a portion of Old Highway 81 are among the items on the Saline County Commission agenda for Tuesday.About the meetingSaline County Commission is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street. The meetings also can be viewed on Saline County’s YouTube channel:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA</a>.To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link. Use the following link and put in the Meeting ID and passcode:<a href="https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09">https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09</a>Meeting ID: 968 3581 9901Passcode: 144636For further information, contact the County Commission’s Office at (785) 309-5825.Agenda itemsSaline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel, in a letter to county commissioners, is proposing the following raises for positions in the county attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647295947729.png" alt="The above list is from&nbsp;Saline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel's letter to the county commissioners." />
 <figcaption>The above list is from&nbsp;Saline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel's letter to the county commissioners.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ebel, citing unsuccessful attempts to fill two vacant positions, told commissioners that higher salaries were needed in order for the positions to be competitive."I have interviewed only four attorneys since August of 2021. Two of the attorneys were people I sought out and were not random applicants. They both declined the offer citing the low salary as a reason why. Only two applicants were from advertising. I offered the position to one who declined due to low salary. The other I offered at the normal starting salary of $57,000 to $60,000, and they said that they would not accept at that rate," Ebel told commissioners in his letter.Ebel also noted that an attorney who left the office in December cited low pay as the reason for leaving.Commissioners also are scheduled to consider a request to award the bid for the county's south Old 81 Highway widening and overlay project. The project would include widening by three feet each side of Old 81 from the Interstate 135 exit at Bridgeport north to Assaria Road. After the highway is widened, a two-inch asphalt overlay is to be placed over the existing roadway and the widened surface.The county received one bid for the project from APAC-Kansas. Staff is recommending that commissioners award the bid to APAC-Kansas for the $1,151,135.25.Other items on the county agenda for Tuesday include the following.●Consider a request from the Road and Bridge Department to purchase a wheel loader.●Hear a financial projection from County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes.●Hear Smith-Hanes' weekly update.Additionally, commissioners are scheduled to meet in executive session at the conclusion of the meeting to discuss a non-elected personnel matter.To see the full Saline County Commission meeting packet for Tuesday (a 20-page pdf), <a href="https://www.saline.org/Portals/0/Content/Commissioners/Documents/Agenda/Current/20220315.pdf?ver=5PGPED_sg6rrb0gbvd2eWA%3d%3d">click here</a>.

County attorney's office raises, roadwork on county agenda

An award-winning performing artist will be in residency next week in Salina area schools thanks to Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Arts Infusion program.

Kevin Spencer will will be in residency March 22-23, according to information from Salina Arts &amp; Humanities. 

Additionally his residency will include a community workshop, TA-DA! Teaching Artist Development &amp; Application, in the Salina Art Center Warehouse, 149 S. Fourth Street, at 6:30 p.m. on March 22. This workshop is free, and registration is required. Attendees can register by calling 785-309-5770 or completing registration online: <a href="https://seam.ly/7yKYWhP9">https://seam.ly/7yKYWhP9</a>.

The workshop is for artists who may be thinking about a switch to a teaching artist career or teaching artists who are interested in gaining additional knowledge and insights. 

"Participants will examine the differences between arts enhanced and arts-integrated instruction, best practices for writing learning objectives and lesson plans, identify ways to align their art discipline to academic standards of learning, and how to design effective assessments," Salina Arts &amp; Humanities noted in a news release.

About the artist courtesy Salina Arts &amp; Humanities

Spencer is an award-winning performing artist who, for more than 25 years, toured the world with one of the largest and most successful theatrical illusion productions in the United States. He left behind a trail of accolades in the production’s wake, including 2009 International Illusionists of the Year, 2015 International Magicians of the Year, and a six-time recipient of Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year.

At the pinnacle of his career, Spencer stepped away from the main stage and into more intimate performance spaces – as well as classrooms and hospitals. As a performing artist, educator, consultant, and researcher, he works to create inclusive communities where everyone experiences an authentic sense of belonging and no one – for any reason – is relegated to the margins. Spencer has M.Ed. in Arts &amp; Interdisciplinary Academic Education and has engaged in extensive research on the benefits of an arts-based curriculum for diverse learners. He is a leading force in the Sensory Inclusive Programs movement and collaborates with major performing arts centers worldwide.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647290253812.jpeg" alt="Kevin Spencer. Photo courtesy Salina Arts &amp; Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Spencer. Photo courtesy Salina Arts &amp; Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAn award-winning performing artist will be in residency next week in Salina area schools thanks to Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Arts Infusion program.Kevin Spencer will will be in residency March 22-23, according to information from Salina Arts &amp; Humanities. Additionally his residency will include a community workshop, TA-DA! Teaching Artist Development &amp; Application, in the Salina Art Center Warehouse, 149 S. Fourth Street, at 6:30 p.m. on March 22. This workshop is free, and registration is required. Attendees can register by calling 785-309-5770 or completing registration online: <a href="https://seam.ly/7yKYWhP9">https://seam.ly/7yKYWhP9</a>.The workshop is for artists who may be thinking about a switch to a teaching artist career or teaching artists who are interested in gaining additional knowledge and insights. "Participants will examine the differences between arts enhanced and arts-integrated instruction, best practices for writing learning objectives and lesson plans, identify ways to align their art discipline to academic standards of learning, and how to design effective assessments," Salina Arts &amp; Humanities noted in a news release.About the artist courtesy Salina Arts &amp; HumanitiesSpencer is an award-winning performing artist who, for more than 25 years, toured the world with one of the largest and most successful theatrical illusion productions in the United States. He left behind a trail of accolades in the production’s wake, including 2009 International Illusionists of the Year, 2015 International Magicians of the Year, and a six-time recipient of Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year.At the pinnacle of his career, Spencer stepped away from the main stage and into more intimate performance spaces – as well as classrooms and hospitals. As a performing artist, educator, consultant, and researcher, he works to create inclusive communities where everyone experiences an authentic sense of belonging and no one – for any reason – is relegated to the margins. Spencer has M.Ed. in Arts &amp; Interdisciplinary Academic Education and has engaged in extensive research on the benefits of an arts-based curriculum for diverse learners. He is a leading force in the Sensory Inclusive Programs movement and collaborates with major performing arts centers worldwide.

Performing artist Kevin Spencer's residency to include workshop

Jackson Browne today announced his Evening With full band 2022 tour schedule, which includes a performance in Salina's Stiefel Theatre in June.

The tour supports his Grammy-nominated album, Downhill From Everywhere.

An evening with Jackson Browne is scheduled for 8 p.m. June 6, in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets start at $85 and go on sale at noon Friday. Buy online at: <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a> or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

About the artist (courtesy <a href="http://jacksonbrowne.com">jacksonbrowne.com</a>)

Jackson Browne has written and performed some of the most literate and moving songs in popular music and has defined a genre of songwriting charged with honesty, emotion and personal politics. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in 2007.

Except for a brief period in NYC in the late 1960s, Jackson has always lived in Southern California. His debut album came out on David Geffen’s Asylum Records in 1972. Since then, he has released fourteen studio albums, four collections of live performances, two “best of” compilations, two DVDs and several single recordings. Jackson’s newest studio album, “Downhill From Everywhere” was released in July 2021 and GRAMMY nominated for Best Americana Album.

Browne is known for his advocacy on behalf of the environment, human rights, and arts education. He’s a co-founder of the groups&nbsp;<a href="http://www.musiciansunited4safeenergy.org/" target="_blank">Musicians United for Safe Energy</a>&nbsp;(MUSE)&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nukefree.org/" target="_blank">Nukefree.org</a>&nbsp;and a member of the Ocean advocacy group,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oceanelders.org/" target="_blank">Ocean Elders</a>.

In 2002, he was the fourth recipient of the John Steinbeck Award, given to artists whose works exemplify the environmental and social values that were essential to the great California-born author. He has received Duke University’s LEAF award for Lifetime Environmental Achievement in the Fine Arts, and both the Chapin-World Hunger Year and NARM Harry Chapin Humanitarian Awards. In 2004, Jackson was given an honorary Doctorate of Music by Occidental College in Los Angeles, for “a remarkable musical career that has successfully combined an intensely personal artistry with a broader vision of social justice.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647287595733.jpeg" alt="Jackson Browne. Photo by Nels Israelson" />
 <figcaption>Jackson Browne. Photo by Nels Israelson</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTJackson Browne today announced his Evening With full band 2022 tour schedule, which includes a performance in Salina's Stiefel Theatre in June.The tour supports his Grammy-nominated album, Downhill From Everywhere.An evening with Jackson Browne is scheduled for 8 p.m. June 6, in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets start at $85 and go on sale at noon Friday. Buy online at: <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a> or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.About the artist (courtesy <a href="http://jacksonbrowne.com">jacksonbrowne.com</a>)Jackson Browne has written and performed some of the most literate and moving songs in popular music and has defined a genre of songwriting charged with honesty, emotion and personal politics. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in 2007.Except for a brief period in NYC in the late 1960s, Jackson has always lived in Southern California. His debut album came out on David Geffen’s Asylum Records in 1972. Since then, he has released fourteen studio albums, four collections of live performances, two “best of” compilations, two DVDs and several single recordings. Jackson’s newest studio album, “Downhill From Everywhere” was released in July 2021 and GRAMMY nominated for Best Americana Album.Browne is known for his advocacy on behalf of the environment, human rights, and arts education. He’s a co-founder of the groups&nbsp;<a href="http://www.musiciansunited4safeenergy.org/" target="_blank">Musicians United for Safe Energy</a>&nbsp;(MUSE)&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nukefree.org/" target="_blank">Nukefree.org</a>&nbsp;and a member of the Ocean advocacy group,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oceanelders.org/" target="_blank">Ocean Elders</a>.In 2002, he was the fourth recipient of the John Steinbeck Award, given to artists whose works exemplify the environmental and social values that were essential to the great California-born author. He has received Duke University’s LEAF award for Lifetime Environmental Achievement in the Fine Arts, and both the Chapin-World Hunger Year and NARM Harry Chapin Humanitarian Awards. In 2004, Jackson was given an honorary Doctorate of Music by Occidental College in Los Angeles, for “a remarkable musical career that has successfully combined an intensely personal artistry with a broader vision of social justice.”

Jackson Browne bringing 'Evening With' tour to Stiefel

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Police are investigating a hit-and-run that damaged an Evergy power pole guy wire early this morning.

A vehicle was northbound on S. Ninth Street and attempted to turn east onto W. Cloud Street when it struck an Evergy power pole, breaking the guy wire, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The incident occurred at approximately 4 a.m. Monday.

A witness reported seeing a gray or silver car back away from the pole and head east on W. Cloud Street. Officers following a fluid trail from the scene located some debris near the intersection of Osborne Street and E. Jewell Avenue.

Forrester said the debris was enough to identify the vehicle as being a Honda Accord.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating a hit-and-run that damaged an Evergy power pole guy wire early this morning.A vehicle was northbound on S. Ninth Street and attempted to turn east onto W. Cloud Street when it struck an Evergy power pole, breaking the guy wire, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The incident occurred at approximately 4 a.m. Monday.A witness reported seeing a gray or silver car back away from the pole and head east on W. Cloud Street. Officers following a fluid trail from the scene located some debris near the intersection of Osborne Street and E. Jewell Avenue.Forrester said the debris was enough to identify the vehicle as being a Honda Accord.

Car strikes power pole in early Monday morning hit-and-run

A recently restored Ford Bronco and several other items were taken from a shop in west Salina Sunday morning.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that at approximately 7 a.m. Sunday, the owner of the shop in the 1500 block of Beverly Drive heard the shop door open and then saw a dark blue 1989 two-door Ford Bronco with a silver stripe that he had just restored drive out of the shop and leave the property. The Bronco was valued at $12,000.

Additionally, a black Stanley tool box valued at $600, a Hitachi reciprocating saw valued at $200, and a RV/mower battery valued at $100 also were taken.

Forrester said the thief had also piled on the ground other assorted tools.

It appeared that the thief broke into the shop through a walk-through door, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA recently restored Ford Bronco and several other items were taken from a shop in west Salina Sunday morning.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that at approximately 7 a.m. Sunday, the owner of the shop in the 1500 block of Beverly Drive heard the shop door open and then saw a dark blue 1989 two-door Ford Bronco with a silver stripe that he had just restored drive out of the shop and leave the property. The Bronco was valued at $12,000.Additionally, a black Stanley tool box valued at $600, a Hitachi reciprocating saw valued at $200, and a RV/mower battery valued at $100 also were taken.Forrester said the thief had also piled on the ground other assorted tools.It appeared that the thief broke into the shop through a walk-through door, Forrester said.

Recently restored Bronco, other items stolen in west Salina

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&nbsp;<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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610422205593.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOB FAIRMarch 15, 2022 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Onsite with the KansasWorks Van.HiringCandy MakersS.A.P. Lead 2nd1st Industrial Performance LeadMachine Operator 2nd ShiftProduction Supervisors 1 and 2nd ShiftFull-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&nbsp;<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.

Blaze destroys pole barn, horse trailer, multiple other items

Items were stolen from an SUV in an east Salina neighborhood that also saw approximately 50 vehicles with windshield wipers up and gas caps off late last week.

David James, 55, of Salina, told police that he parked his 2014 Ford Escape in his driveway in the 2500 block of Dunnwood Drive at approximately 10 p.m. Friday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. 

At approxiamtely 6:30 a.m. Saturday, the vehicle was found with its windshield wipers up and the gas cap off. Additionally, a battery charger valued at $125 and a man's gold wedding ring valued at $3,000 were taken from inside the vehicle, Forrester said. Damage to the windshield wipers was estimated at $35.

Forrester said that approximately 50 vehicles in the neighborhood had their windshield wipers up and their gas caps off.

Residents in the area who have video surveillance that might provide information about the incidents are asked to contact the Salina Police Department, Forrester said. 

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostItems were stolen from an SUV in an east Salina neighborhood that also saw approximately 50 vehicles with windshield wipers up and gas caps off late last week.David James, 55, of Salina, told police that he parked his 2014 Ford Escape in his driveway in the 2500 block of Dunnwood Drive at approximately 10 p.m. Friday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. At approxiamtely 6:30 a.m. Saturday, the vehicle was found with its windshield wipers up and the gas cap off. Additionally, a battery charger valued at $125 and a man's gold wedding ring valued at $3,000 were taken from inside the vehicle, Forrester said. Damage to the windshield wipers was estimated at $35.Forrester said that approximately 50 vehicles in the neighborhood had their windshield wipers up and their gas caps off.Residents in the area who have video surveillance that might provide information about the incidents are asked to contact the Salina Police Department, Forrester said.

Items stolen from SUV; multiple vehicles have wipers up, gas caps off

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that more than $6 million&nbsp;in funds from the Kansas High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program will go to 10 rural counties&nbsp;to improve the safety&nbsp;and efficiency&nbsp;of roads&nbsp;and local roadways.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“These improvements are vital to maintaining the infrastructure as many Kansans depend on rural roadways,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “Our rural roads are&nbsp;an important component to the local and state economy.&nbsp;Programs like this ensure&nbsp;that&nbsp;commerce flows&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;families&nbsp;can&nbsp;travel&nbsp;the state safely.”&nbsp;

The&nbsp;funding will be available through the Kansas High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program&nbsp;which&nbsp;is a federally funded state/local partnership initiative designed to improve safety on rural roads. This year’s 10 HRRR projects were selected from more than 40 applications seeking $21 million in federal funds.&nbsp;Kansas HRRR funds cover 90-100 percent of total project cost with the counties making up the difference if required.&nbsp;

“Recognizing that Kansans use local roads to reach state highways, KDOT partners with cities and counties to help improve local infrastructure,”&nbsp;Transportation&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Julie&nbsp;Lorenz&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Working together provides opportunities for communities to strengthen their local road network to improve connections across the state.”&nbsp;

Projects in this program fall into one of two categories: Systemic (encompassing a local roadway network) or Site Specific. Projects in the Systemic category are 100 percent federally funded and&nbsp;Site Specific&nbsp;projects are 90 percent federally funded.&nbsp;

Edwards County Install aggregate shoulders on 260th Avenue/270th Avenue from Kiowa County line to U.S. 50, $733,500

Finney County Extend culverts and add rumble strips on VFW Road from Maple Street to U.S. 50, $206,000

Lyon County Install aggregate shoulders and flatten side slopes on Road F between U.S. 56 and Road 245, $949,000

Mitchell County Upgrade guardrail on 130 Road (Waconda Lake Causeway Road) between K Road and the south city limits of Cawker City, $1,899,000

Ness County Update guardrail and install object markers on J Road between 20 Road and K-96, $454,500

Wabaunsee County Install pavement markings, aggregate shoulders, upgrade guardrail and remove obstructions from clear zone on Mission Valley Road between K-4 and Harveyville Road, $288,000

Greenwood County Upgrade signing on all major collectors east of K-99, $399,000

Nemaha County Upgrade signing on all major collectors north of U.S. 36, $340,000

Reno County Upgrade signing on all major and minor collectors west of K-14, $561,000

Russell County Upgrade signing on all major collectors north of I-70 and west of U.S. 281, $249,000

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that more than $6 million&nbsp;in funds from the Kansas High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program will go to 10 rural counties&nbsp;to improve the safety&nbsp;and efficiency&nbsp;of roads&nbsp;and local roadways.&nbsp;&nbsp;“These improvements are vital to maintaining the infrastructure as many Kansans depend on rural roadways,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “Our rural roads are&nbsp;an important component to the local and state economy.&nbsp;Programs like this ensure&nbsp;that&nbsp;commerce flows&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;families&nbsp;can&nbsp;travel&nbsp;the state safely.”&nbsp;The&nbsp;funding will be available through the Kansas High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program&nbsp;which&nbsp;is a federally funded state/local partnership initiative designed to improve safety on rural roads. This year’s 10 HRRR projects were selected from more than 40 applications seeking $21 million in federal funds.&nbsp;Kansas HRRR funds cover 90-100 percent of total project cost with the counties making up the difference if required.&nbsp;“Recognizing that Kansans use local roads to reach state highways, KDOT partners with cities and counties to help improve local infrastructure,”&nbsp;Transportation&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Julie&nbsp;Lorenz&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Working together provides opportunities for communities to strengthen their local road network to improve connections across the state.”&nbsp;Projects in this program fall into one of two categories: Systemic (encompassing a local roadway network) or Site Specific. Projects in the Systemic category are 100 percent federally funded and&nbsp;Site Specific&nbsp;projects are 90 percent federally funded.&nbsp;<h2>Site specific projects</h2>Edwards County Install aggregate shoulders on 260th Avenue/270th Avenue from Kiowa County line to U.S. 50, $733,500 Finney County Extend culverts and add rumble strips on VFW Road from Maple Street to U.S. 50, $206,000 Lyon County Install aggregate shoulders and flatten side slopes on Road F between U.S. 56 and Road 245, $949,000 Mitchell County Upgrade guardrail on 130 Road (Waconda Lake Causeway Road) between K Road and the south city limits of Cawker City, $1,899,000 Ness County Update guardrail and install object markers on J Road between 20 Road and K-96, $454,500 Wabaunsee County Install pavement markings, aggregate shoulders, upgrade guardrail and remove obstructions from clear zone on Mission Valley Road between K-4 and Harveyville Road, $288,000 <h2>Systemic projects</h2>Greenwood County Upgrade signing on all major collectors east of K-99, $399,000 Nemaha County Upgrade signing on all major collectors north of U.S. 36, $340,000 Reno County Upgrade signing on all major and minor collectors west of K-14, $561,000 Russell County Upgrade signing on all major collectors north of I-70 and west of U.S. 281, $249,000

Kelly: Mitchell County roadway project among those funded

HERINGTON -&nbsp;

Home Health and Hospice of Dickinson County is offering a bereavement support group in Herington. 

The next class will be on Tuesday at 6 p.m. These classes are held at the Home Health and Hospice office, 11 N. Broadway, Herington. Lindsey Brummer, bereavement coordinator, serves as the group facilitator. These gatherings are designed to help individuals work through the period of transition, allow time for sharing personal experiences and feelings, and provide guidance toward learning and coping skills. The public is welcome to attend the free sessions. Persons interested in the support group are encouraged to bring along a supportive person. Pre-registration is not required. Anyone with questions should contact Home Health and Hospice of Dickinson County at 785-263-6630.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644808890908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Memorial Health SystemHERINGTON -&nbsp;

Home Health and Hospice of Dickinson County is offering a bereavement support group in Herington. The next class will be on Tuesday at 6 p.m. These classes are held at the Home Health and Hospice office, 11 N. Broadway, Herington. Lindsey Brummer, bereavement coordinator, serves as the group facilitator. These gatherings are designed to help individuals work through the period of transition, allow time for sharing personal experiences and feelings, and provide guidance toward learning and coping skills. The public is welcome to attend the free sessions. Persons interested in the support group are encouraged to bring along a supportive person. Pre-registration is not required. Anyone with questions should contact Home Health and Hospice of Dickinson County at 785-263-6630.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bereavement support group to meet in Herington Tuesday

On March 8, 2022, the CDC released a highly rigorous comparison study of a set of schools with universal mask requirements versus districts without mask requirements. The results were clear. The districts with mask requirements “...had a 23% lower incidence of COVID-19 among staff members and students compared with districts without mask requirements.”

The study was conducted from August to October of 2021. The omicron surge is now in decline. Almost overnight, the rate of mask-wearing in public areas has dropped dramatically. In some places, the few folks wearing face masks stand out as larger numbers of people believe it is time to “return to normal.”

Discussions on radio and television all center on whether folks can now relax their fear of becoming infected. This singular concern only about self-protection shows widespread misunderstanding of COVID transmission and dangers, as well as our Western obsession with ourselves and disregard for others.

The research on masking has long shown that protection against transmission is greatest when both parties are masked, called "universal masking." But the next best protection is when the infected person is wearing a mask, called “source control.” This keeps most of the aerosol droplets from spreading outward, and those few viruses that might get through a mask diffuse (spread out) to much lower concentrations.

It has always been the case that we wear masks mainly to protect others. This pandemic has been unique in having a significant number of infected persons remaining perfectly normal with no temperature or other telltale symptoms. And if you are vaccinated and even have a booster shot, that likelihood of being infected without symptoms is even higher. Thus I could be infected and spreading this coronavirus while feeling perfectly healthy. If I do not wear a mask in public enclosures, I could cause an elderly or compromised recipient to become sick or die. And I would never know it. This can occur as long as this virus is still in circulation. —And it is. The numbers of deaths are falling, but they are still high.

Some anti-mask proponents express concerns for school children with asthma and other breathing problems, as well as concerns about learning language by viewing the teacher’s lips. Here the arguments fail dramatically. First, for those with serious respiratory problems, they can be without masks if the rest of the population protects them by masking up. But we likewise have additional data showing that masks have brought down the number of cases of flu and greatly lessened seasonal allergies from pollen. &nbsp;

In addition, there is a whole East Asia culture, from Korea to Japan and China down to Singapore and Vietnam who have been masking up in crowded cities for decades. This includes crowded streets every year. They are not doing this out of personal fear for themselves, but in respect to protect others. The school children of East Asia have been attending classes masked and are doing quite well. Indeed, their academics has not suffered the major shortfalls that have occurred in the United States. They stand as living proof and in massive numbers that masking is not harmful to normal children.

The mainly American perspective that governmental agencies do not have a right to tell us what we must wear is strange. I would suggest that such adherents merely strip naked and walk out the door to see how fast we indeed do compel folks to wear clothing through our obscenity laws. When it comes to driving on the right side of the road or obeying speed limits, good government has a responsibility to regulate behavior for the safety of all. The high rate of COVID-19 deaths in the United States, in comparison with the rest of the developed world, has been a disgrace. The U.S. percentage of unvaccinated citizens remains higher than in other developed and more science-literate countries.

We are approaching a million COVID deaths.&nbsp; The U.S. has 2,692 cumulative COVID deaths per million. In East Asia where face mask wearing has long been a winter responsibility, that number of deaths per million is 150 for Japan, 132 for South Korea and only three for China.

Our wearing face masks is a responsible act, for others’ health and safety every winter, even without a pandemic&nbsp;&nbsp;

John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities during 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCKOn March 8, 2022, the CDC released a highly rigorous comparison study of a set of schools with universal mask requirements versus districts without mask requirements. The results were clear. The districts with mask requirements “...had a 23% lower incidence of COVID-19 among staff members and students compared with districts without mask requirements.” The study was conducted from August to October of 2021. The omicron surge is now in decline. Almost overnight, the rate of mask-wearing in public areas has dropped dramatically. In some places, the few folks wearing face masks stand out as larger numbers of people believe it is time to “return to normal.” Discussions on radio and television all center on whether folks can now relax their fear of becoming infected. This singular concern only about self-protection shows widespread misunderstanding of COVID transmission and dangers, as well as our Western obsession with ourselves and disregard for others. The research on masking has long shown that protection against transmission is greatest when both parties are masked, called "universal masking." But the next best protection is when the infected person is wearing a mask, called “source control.” This keeps most of the aerosol droplets from spreading outward, and those few viruses that might get through a mask diffuse (spread out) to much lower concentrations. It has always been the case that we wear masks mainly to protect others. This pandemic has been unique in having a significant number of infected persons remaining perfectly normal with no temperature or other telltale symptoms. And if you are vaccinated and even have a booster shot, that likelihood of being infected without symptoms is even higher. Thus I could be infected and spreading this coronavirus while feeling perfectly healthy. If I do not wear a mask in public enclosures, I could cause an elderly or compromised recipient to become sick or die. And I would never know it. This can occur as long as this virus is still in circulation. —And it is. The numbers of deaths are falling, but they are still high. Some anti-mask proponents express concerns for school children with asthma and other breathing problems, as well as concerns about learning language by viewing the teacher’s lips. Here the arguments fail dramatically. First, for those with serious respiratory problems, they can be without masks if the rest of the population protects them by masking up. But we likewise have additional data showing that masks have brought down the number of cases of flu and greatly lessened seasonal allergies from pollen. &nbsp; In addition, there is a whole East Asia culture, from Korea to Japan and China down to Singapore and Vietnam who have been masking up in crowded cities for decades. This includes crowded streets every year. They are not doing this out of personal fear for themselves, but in respect to protect others. The school children of East Asia have been attending classes masked and are doing quite well. Indeed, their academics has not suffered the major shortfalls that have occurred in the United States. They stand as living proof and in massive numbers that masking is not harmful to normal children. The mainly American perspective that governmental agencies do not have a right to tell us what we must wear is strange. I would suggest that such adherents merely strip naked and walk out the door to see how fast we indeed do compel folks to wear clothing through our obscenity laws. When it comes to driving on the right side of the road or obeying speed limits, good government has a responsibility to regulate behavior for the safety of all. The high rate of COVID-19 deaths in the United States, in comparison with the rest of the developed world, has been a disgrace. The U.S. percentage of unvaccinated citizens remains higher than in other developed and more science-literate countries. We are approaching a million COVID deaths.&nbsp; The U.S. has 2,692 cumulative COVID deaths per million. In East Asia where face mask wearing has long been a winter responsibility, that number of deaths per million is 150 for Japan, 132 for South Korea and only three for China. Our wearing face masks is a responsible act, for others’ health and safety every winter, even without a pandemic&nbsp;&nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities during 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

EDUCATION FRONTLINES: Unmasking?

Today is Monday, March 14, the 73rd day of 2022. There are 292 days left in the year.

On March 14, 1794, Eli Whitney received a patent for his cotton gin, an invention that revolutionized America's cotton industry.

In 1879, physicist Albert Einstein was born in Ulm, Germany.

In 1939, the republic of Czechoslovakia was dissolved, opening the way for Nazi occupation of Czech areas and the separation of Slovakia.

In 1951, during the Korean War, United Nations forces recaptured Seoul.

In 1962, Democrat Edward M. Kennedy officially launched in Boston his successful candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat from Massachusetts once held by his brother, President John F. Kennedy. (Edward Kennedy served in the Senate for nearly 47 years.)

In 1964, a jury in Dallas found Jack Ruby guilty of murdering Lee Harvey Oswald, the accused assassin of President John F. Kennedy, and sentenced him to death. (Both the conviction and death sentence were overturned, but Ruby died before he could be retried.)

In 1967, the body of President John F. Kennedy was moved from a temporary grave to a permanent memorial site at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

In 1980, a LOT Polish Airlines jet crashed while attempting to land in Warsaw, killing all 87 people aboard, including 22 members of a U.S. amateur boxing team.

In 1990, the Soviet Congress of People's Deputies held a secret ballot that elected Mikhail S. Gorbachev to a new, powerful presidency.

In 1995, American astronaut Norman Thagard became the first American to enter space aboard a Russian rocket as he and two cosmonauts blasted off aboard a Soyuz spacecraft, headed for the Mir space station.

In 2011, Neil Diamond, Alice Cooper, Tom Waits, Darlene Love, Dr. John and Leon Russell were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In 2015, Robert Durst, a wealthy eccentric linked to two killings and his wife's disappearance, was arrested by the FBI in New Orleans on a murder warrant a day before HBO aired the final episode of a serial documentary about his life. (Durst would be convicted in the shooting death of his friend, Susan Berman; he died in January 2022 while serving a life sentence in California.)

In 2018, Stephen Hawking, the best-known theoretical physicist of his time, died at his home in Cambridge, England, at the age of 76; he had stunned doctors by living with the normally fatal illness ALS for more than 50 years.

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, hosted a White House state dinner for British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife, Samantha. Earlier, the two leaders announced that NATO forces would hand over the lead combat role in Afghanistan to Afghan forces in 2013 as the U.S. and its allies aimed to get out by the end of 2014.

Five years ago: A blustery late-season storm plastered the Northeast with sleet and snow, paralyzing much of the Washington-to-Boston corridor but falling well short of predicted snow totals in New York, Boston and Philadelphia. Declaring "enough is enough," Gen. Robert Neller, the Marine Corps commandant, told senators that he intended to fix the problem that led to current and former Corps members sharing nude photos of female Marines online and making lewd or threatening comments about them. Mitch Seavey won his third Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, becoming the fastest and oldest champion at age 57.

One year ago: U.S. authorities arrested and charged two men with assaulting U.S. Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick with bear spray during the Jan. 6 riot. (Sicknick collapsed and died at a hospital the next day; a medical examiner determined that he suffered a stroke and died from natural causes.) Myanmar's ruling junta declared martial law in parts of the country's largest city as security forces killed dozens of protesters in an increasingly lethal crackdown on resistance to the previous month's military coup. Female performers including Beyoncé and Taylor Swift swept the top honors at the Grammy Awards; Beyoncé's 28th win made her the most decorated woman in Grammy history. Record-setting New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees announced his retirement after 20 NFL seasons.

Today's Birthdays: Former astronaut Frank Borman is 94. Actor Michael Caine is 89. Composer-conductor Quincy Jones is 89. Actor Raymond J. Barry is 83. Movie director Wolfgang Petersen is 81. Country singer Michael Martin Murphey is 77. Rock musician Walt Parazaider (formerly with Chicago) is 77. Actor Steve Kanaly is 76. Comedian Billy Crystal is 74. Actor-writer-comedian-radio personality Rick Dees is 71. Country singer Jann Browne is 68. Actor Adrian Zmed is 68. Prince Albert II, the ruler of Monaco, is 64. Actor Laila Robins is 63. Actor Tamara Tunie is 63. Actor Penny Johnson Jerald is 62. Producer-director-writer Kevin Williamson is 57. Actor Elise Neal is 56. Actor Gary Anthony Williams is 56. Actor Megan Follows is 54. Rock musician Michael Bland is 53. Country singer Kristian Bush is 52. Actor Betsy Brandt is 49. Actor Grace Park is 48. Actor Daniel Gillies is 46. Actor Corey Stoll is 46. Actor Jake Fogelnest is 43. Actor Chris Klein is 43. Actor Ryan Cartwright (TV: "Kevin Can Wait") is 41. Actor Kate Maberly is 40. Singer-musician Taylor Hanson (Hanson) is 39. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, is 38. Actor Jamie Bell is 36. Rock musician Este Haim (Haim) is 36. NBA star Stephen Curry is 34. Actor Ansel Elgort is 28. Olympic gold medal gymnast Simone Biles is 25. Actor James Freedson-Jackson (Film: "The Strange Ones") is 20.

<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 Monday, March 14, the 73rd day of 2022. There are 292 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 14, 1794, Eli Whitney received a patent for his cotton gin, an invention that revolutionized America's cotton industry.On this date:In 1879, physicist Albert Einstein was born in Ulm, Germany.In 1939, the republic of Czechoslovakia was dissolved, opening the way for Nazi occupation of Czech areas and the separation of Slovakia.In 1951, during the Korean War, United Nations forces recaptured Seoul.In 1962, Democrat Edward M. Kennedy officially launched in Boston his successful candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat from Massachusetts once held by his brother, President John F. Kennedy. (Edward Kennedy served in the Senate for nearly 47 years.)In 1964, a jury in Dallas found Jack Ruby guilty of murdering Lee Harvey Oswald, the accused assassin of President John F. Kennedy, and sentenced him to death. (Both the conviction and death sentence were overturned, but Ruby died before he could be retried.)In 1967, the body of President John F. Kennedy was moved from a temporary grave to a permanent memorial site at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.In 1980, a LOT Polish Airlines jet crashed while attempting to land in Warsaw, killing all 87 people aboard, including 22 members of a U.S. amateur boxing team.In 1990, the Soviet Congress of People's Deputies held a secret ballot that elected Mikhail S. Gorbachev to a new, powerful presidency.In 1995, American astronaut Norman Thagard became the first American to enter space aboard a Russian rocket as he and two cosmonauts blasted off aboard a Soyuz spacecraft, headed for the Mir space station.In 2011, Neil Diamond, Alice Cooper, Tom Waits, Darlene Love, Dr. John and Leon Russell were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.In 2015, Robert Durst, a wealthy eccentric linked to two killings and his wife's disappearance, was arrested by the FBI in New Orleans on a murder warrant a day before HBO aired the final episode of a serial documentary about his life. (Durst would be convicted in the shooting death of his friend, Susan Berman; he died in January 2022 while serving a life sentence in California.)In 2018, Stephen Hawking, the best-known theoretical physicist of his time, died at his home in Cambridge, England, at the age of 76; he had stunned doctors by living with the normally fatal illness ALS for more than 50 years.Ten years ago: President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, hosted a White House state dinner for British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife, Samantha. Earlier, the two leaders announced that NATO forces would hand over the lead combat role in Afghanistan to Afghan forces in 2013 as the U.S. and its allies aimed to get out by the end of 2014.Five years ago: A blustery late-season storm plastered the Northeast with sleet and snow, paralyzing much of the Washington-to-Boston corridor but falling well short of predicted snow totals in New York, Boston and Philadelphia. Declaring "enough is enough," Gen. Robert Neller, the Marine Corps commandant, told senators that he intended to fix the problem that led to current and former Corps members sharing nude photos of female Marines online and making lewd or threatening comments about them. Mitch Seavey won his third Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, becoming the fastest and oldest champion at age 57.One year ago: U.S. authorities arrested and charged two men with assaulting U.S. Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick with bear spray during the Jan. 6 riot. (Sicknick collapsed and died at a hospital the next day; a medical examiner determined that he suffered a stroke and died from natural causes.) Myanmar's ruling junta declared martial law in parts of the country's largest city as security forces killed dozens of protesters in an increasingly lethal crackdown on resistance to the previous month's military coup. Female performers including Beyoncé and Taylor Swift swept the top honors at the Grammy Awards; Beyoncé's 28th win made her the most decorated woman in Grammy history. Record-setting New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees announced his retirement after 20 NFL seasons.Today's Birthdays: Former astronaut Frank Borman is 94. Actor Michael Caine is 89. Composer-conductor Quincy Jones is 89. Actor Raymond J. Barry is 83. Movie director Wolfgang Petersen is 81. Country singer Michael Martin Murphey is 77. Rock musician Walt Parazaider (formerly with Chicago) is 77. Actor Steve Kanaly is 76. Comedian Billy Crystal is 74. Actor-writer-comedian-radio personality Rick Dees is 71. Country singer Jann Browne is 68. Actor Adrian Zmed is 68. Prince Albert II, the ruler of Monaco, is 64. Actor Laila Robins is 63. Actor Tamara Tunie is 63. Actor Penny Johnson Jerald is 62. Producer-director-writer Kevin Williamson is 57. Actor Elise Neal is 56. Actor Gary Anthony Williams is 56. Actor Megan Follows is 54. Rock musician Michael Bland is 53. Country singer Kristian Bush is 52. Actor Betsy Brandt is 49. Actor Grace Park is 48. Actor Daniel Gillies is 46. Actor Corey Stoll is 46. Actor Jake Fogelnest is 43. Actor Chris Klein is 43. Actor Ryan Cartwright (TV: "Kevin Can Wait") is 41. Actor Kate Maberly is 40. Singer-musician Taylor Hanson (Hanson) is 39. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, is 38. Actor Jamie Bell is 36. Rock musician Este Haim (Haim) is 36. NBA star Stephen Curry is 34. Actor Ansel Elgort is 28. Olympic gold medal gymnast Simone Biles is 25. Actor James Freedson-Jackson (Film: "The Strange Ones") is 20.

Today in History - March 14

Purchases, bid awards, and the acceptance and placement of the 2021 People's Choice sculpture are among the items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.

Study sessions and city commission meetings will take place in–person in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, and via Zoom until further notice. Meetings also can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.

The meeting also can be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID:892 7598 4587 when prompted.

If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hands so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.

Citizens also can send written comments or questions to city commissioners via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>.

In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.

Commissioners are scheduled to meet in study session at 3 p.m. Monday for a 2021 preliminary financial update. To access the study session packet, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=487600&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

The regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. NOTE: The Citizens Forum time for public comment has been moved to the end of the meeting.

Commissioners are being asked by the Salina Fire Department to authorize the fire department to purchase the following from Osage Ambulance via Emergency Services Supply.

●The refurbishment and remounting of the new ambulance patient module from an existing Salina Fire Department ambulance to the new RAM 4500 chassis

●A Stryker Power Pro power EMS patient cot

Commissiners also are being asked to award the bid for the 2022 microsurfacing project to Vance Brothers, Inc., of Kansas City, Mo., in the amount of $850,669.82 with a five percent construction contingency for a total project authorization not to exceed $893,203.31 and authoize the city manager to excute a contract with Vance Brothers, Inc., upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.

Additionally, commissioners are being asked to award the 2022 sidewalk ramps and parking lot repairs to Davis Concrete Construction of Salina in the amount of $99,185 with a five percent construction contingencey for a total project authorization not to exceed $104,144.25 and authorize the city manager to execute a contract with Davis Concrete Construction of Salina upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.

Acceptance and placement of the 2021 SculptureTour Salina People's Choice sculpture also is on the city agenda. 

Each year since SculptureTour Salina began in 2011, the city has purchased and placed the winner of the People's Choice Award on public property as a part of the city's public art collection.

On March 3, SculpturTour Salina announced that Reven Marie Swanson's Butterfly Tree was the 2021 People's Choice winner. If approved, the sculpture will be purchased for $15,000 in April. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, which is responsible for the city's public art collection, is requesting that Butterfly Tree be placed near the south entrance of the Salina Public Library.

Other items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday include the following.

●Consider approving an ordinance, on second reading to amend city code pertaining to petty cash and working cash funds

●Consider approving a resolution to amend and restate the authorization for establishing and maintaing petty cash and working cash funds for city departments.

●Consider approving on second reading an ordinance amending the zoning ordinance to add travel center and/or truck stop, short term recreational vehicle parking area accessory to hotel, motel, truck stop or travel plaza and mini-warehouses to the list of conditional uses allowed in the S. Ninth Street Corridor Overlay District.

To view the complete Salina City Commission agenda for Monday, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=487613&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here</a>.

By SALINA POSTPurchases, bid awards, and the acceptance and placement of the 2021 People's Choice sculpture are among the items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.About the meetingStudy sessions and city commission meetings will take place in–person in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, and via Zoom until further notice. Meetings also can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.The meeting also can be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID:892 7598 4587 when prompted.If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hands so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.Citizens also can send written comments or questions to city commissioners via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>.In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.Study sessionCommissioners are scheduled to meet in study session at 3 p.m. Monday for a 2021 preliminary financial update. To access the study session packet, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=487600&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.Regular meetingThe regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. NOTE: The Citizens Forum time for public comment has been moved to the end of the meeting.Commissioners are being asked by the Salina Fire Department to authorize the fire department to purchase the following from Osage Ambulance via Emergency Services Supply.●A 2022 RAM 4500 4x4 ambulance chassis●The refurbishment and remounting of the new ambulance patient module from an existing Salina Fire Department ambulance to the new RAM 4500 chassis●A Stryker Power Pro power EMS patient cotCommissiners also are being asked to award the bid for the 2022 microsurfacing project to Vance Brothers, Inc., of Kansas City, Mo., in the amount of $850,669.82 with a five percent construction contingency for a total project authorization not to exceed $893,203.31 and authoize the city manager to excute a contract with Vance Brothers, Inc., upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.Additionally, commissioners are being asked to award the 2022 sidewalk ramps and parking lot repairs to Davis Concrete Construction of Salina in the amount of $99,185 with a five percent construction contingencey for a total project authorization not to exceed $104,144.25 and authorize the city manager to execute a contract with Davis Concrete Construction of Salina upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.Acceptance and placement of the 2021 SculptureTour Salina People's Choice sculpture also is on the city agenda. Each year since SculptureTour Salina began in 2011, the city has purchased and placed the winner of the People's Choice Award on public property as a part of the city's public art collection.On March 3, SculpturTour Salina announced that Reven Marie Swanson's Butterfly Tree was the 2021 People's Choice winner. If approved, the sculpture will be purchased for $15,000 in April. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, which is responsible for the city's public art collection, is requesting that Butterfly Tree be placed near the south entrance of the Salina Public Library.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647223650308.jpeg" alt="This concrete pad near the south entrance to the Salina Public Library is the proposed location for the 2021 People's Choice Award sculpture. Photo courtesy City of Salina" />
 <figcaption>This concrete pad near the south entrance to the Salina Public Library is the proposed location for the 2021 People's Choice Award sculpture. Photo courtesy City of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>Other items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday include the following.●Discuss debt financing options●Consider approving an ordinance, on second reading to amend city code pertaining to petty cash and working cash funds●Consider approving a resolution to amend and restate the authorization for establishing and maintaing petty cash and working cash funds for city departments.●Consider approving on second reading an ordinance amending the zoning ordinance to add travel center and/or truck stop, short term recreational vehicle parking area accessory to hotel, motel, truck stop or travel plaza and mini-warehouses to the list of conditional uses allowed in the S. Ninth Street Corridor Overlay District.To view the complete Salina City Commission agenda for Monday, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=487613&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here</a>.

Bid awards, 2021 People's Choice Award sculpture placement on city agenda

A look at the forecast to start the work week includes temperatures near to above normal, as well as breezy conditions on Monday and Wednesday. Watch for an elevated fire danger on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647215341878.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceA look at the forecast to start the work week includes temperatures near to above normal, as well as breezy conditions on Monday and Wednesday. Watch for an elevated fire danger on Wednesday.

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