A number of local and area schools are among those with nominees for the 2022 Jester Awards.

The Jester Awards ceremony is scheduled for 3 p.m. April 24 in Wichita's Century II Convention Hall.

Music Theatre Wichita began the Jester Awards in 2002 to honor high school musical theatre excellence. 

"The Jester Awards program recognizes the extraordinary amount of work, creativity, and dedication that faculty and students pour into their high school theatrical productions. Recognition is given to casts and crews, directors and designers – all who work to stage these great works of musical theatre. Within practical limitations regarding number of schools and distance from Wichita, every effort is made to be as inclusive as possible," Music Theatre Wichita noted on its <a href="https://mtwichita.org/">website</a>.

Following are local and area schools nominated for Jester Awards.

McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical

Nicholas Griggs &amp; Greg McGlynn, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Eric Lundstrom, Smoky Valley High School, Matilda

LEADING PERFORMER IN A FEMALE PRESENTING ROLE

Harper Johnston (Anya), Salina Central High School, Anastasia

LEADING PERFORMER IN A MALE PRESENTING ROLE

Pierce Hamma (Tevye), McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Blaise Alderson (Horton), Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical

SUPPORTING PERFORMER IN A FEMALE PRESENTING ROLE

Maren Meneley (Torrey), Abilene High School, Freaky Friday

Emma Kelly (Lily), Salina Central High School, Anastasia

SUPPORTING PERFORMER IN A MALE PRESENTING ROLE

Xavier Billings (Motel), McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof Evan Dickson (Pinocchio), Salina South High School, Shrek the Musical

Kirsten Lamia (Dragon), Salina South High School, Shrek the Musical

Larkin French (Young Fiona), Salina South High School, Shrek the Musical

Olivia Swenson (Jojo), Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical

Ladybug, Grasshopper, Spider, Earthworm, and Centipede, Peabody-Burns High School, James and the Giant Peach

McPherson High School,&nbsp; Fiddler on the Roof

Tradition, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Paris Holds the Key, Salina Central High School, Anastasia

Nicholas Griggs, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Lindsay Modin, Salina Central High School, Anastasia

Keri Boley, Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical

Angela Dolezal, Smoky Valley High School, Matilda

Karen Brassea (Choreography), Salina Central High School, Anastasia

Greg McGlynn, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Alora Carr, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof

Eric Lundstorm, Smoky Valley High School, Matilda

Tyler Breneman, Smoky Valley High School, Matilda

Joel Kejr, Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical

Robin Hilt (Costume Design), Salina Central High School, Anastasia

Deb Wall (Scenic Design), Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical the Musical

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649992119832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA number of local and area schools are among those with nominees for the 2022 Jester Awards.The Jester Awards ceremony is scheduled for 3 p.m. April 24 in Wichita's Century II Convention Hall.Music Theatre Wichita began the Jester Awards in 2002 to honor high school musical theatre excellence. "The Jester Awards program recognizes the extraordinary amount of work, creativity, and dedication that faculty and students pour into their high school theatrical productions. Recognition is given to casts and crews, directors and designers – all who work to stage these great works of musical theatre. Within practical limitations regarding number of schools and distance from Wichita, every effort is made to be as inclusive as possible," Music Theatre Wichita noted on its <a href="https://mtwichita.org/">website</a>. Following are local and area schools nominated for Jester Awards.OUTSTANDING PRODUCTIONMcPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofSoutheast of Saline High School, Seussical DIRECTION OF A SHOWNicholas Griggs &amp; Greg McGlynn, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofEric Lundstrom, Smoky Valley High School, MatildaLEADING PERFORMER IN A FEMALE PRESENTING ROLEHarper Johnston (Anya), Salina Central High School, AnastasiaLEADING PERFORMER IN A MALE PRESENTING ROLEPierce Hamma (Tevye), McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofBlaise Alderson (Horton), Southeast of Saline High School, SeussicalSUPPORTING PERFORMER IN A FEMALE PRESENTING ROLEMaren Meneley (Torrey), Abilene High School, Freaky FridayEmma Kelly (Lily), Salina Central High School, AnastasiaSUPPORTING PERFORMER IN A MALE PRESENTING ROLEXavier Billings (Motel), McPherson High School, Fiddler on the Roof Evan Dickson (Pinocchio), Salina South High School, Shrek the MusicalCAMEO PERFORMERKirsten Lamia (Dragon), Salina South High School, Shrek the MusicalPRE-HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMERLarkin French (Young Fiona), Salina South High School, Shrek the MusicalOlivia Swenson (Jojo), Southeast of Saline High School, SeussicalSMALL ENSEMBLELadybug, Grasshopper, Spider, Earthworm, and Centipede, Peabody-Burns High School, James and the Giant PeachENSEMBLE/CHORUSMcPherson High School,&nbsp; Fiddler on the RoofPRODUCTION NUMBERTradition, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofParis Holds the Key, Salina Central High School, AnastasiaORCHESTRA DIRECTIONNicholas Griggs, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofLindsay Modin, Salina Central High School, AnastasiaVOCAL MUSIC DIRECTIONNicholas Griggs, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofKeri Boley, Southeast of Saline High School, SeussicalCHOREOGRAPHY/STAGINGAngela Dolezal, Smoky Valley High School, MatildaARTISTIC GUESTKaren Brassea (Choreography), Salina Central High School, AnastasiaSCENIC DESIGNGreg McGlynn, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofCOSTUME DESIGNKeri Boley, Southeast of Saline High School, SeussicalLIGHTING DESIGNAlora Carr, McPherson High School, Fiddler on the RoofEric Lundstorm, Smoky Valley High School, MatildaSOUND DESIGNTyler Breneman, Smoky Valley High School, MatildaJoel Kejr, Southeast of Saline High School, SeussicalDESIGN GUESTRobin Hilt (Costume Design), Salina Central High School, AnastasiaDeb Wall (Scenic Design), Southeast of Saline High School, Seussical the Musical

Local, area HS theatre programs nominated for Jester Awards

My husband and I have paid off all our credit card debt, and we are following your Baby Steps plan. We still owe about $40,000 on two cars, and our combined income is around $150,000. Since we have a good income, we were thinking about finishing our emergency fund and contributing to our IRAs while we finish off the car payments. Under the circumstances, is this okay?

I understand the temptation you guys are facing. But there’s a power in behavior modification on a short-term basis that supersedes the power of mathematics. Stick to the plan, and pay off the cars first.

When you’re still on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/dave-ramsey-7-baby-steps" target="_blank">Baby Step</a>&nbsp;2, you need to stop all saving and investing, and attack your debts with a vengeance. You’ve got a lot of money wrapped up in cars, and even with all the great work you two have done I know it’s probably still a little hard to see light at the end of the tunnel. Debts that large can be intimidating.

But I’m afraid you’ll lose focus and intensity when it comes to getting out of debt if you worry about your emergency fund and setting aside for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/daves-investing-philosophy" target="_blank">retirement</a>&nbsp;too soon. I’ve seen that happen to lots of people, and when it does it can end up taking several years to get rid of all that debt.

You guys have made great progress, and you’re making good money. If you stay gazelle-intense about getting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-calculator" target="_blank">out of debt</a>, those car payments can be history in about a year and a half. Think about how fast you can get that emergency fund in place then,&nbsp;and&nbsp;how much money you’ll have freed up to go into retirement.

Now is the time to roll up your sleeves, get mad about all that stupid debt and knock it out once and for all. You can do this, Paola!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648176857529.png" alt="Dave Ramsey" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My husband and I have paid off all our credit card debt, and we are following your Baby Steps plan. We still owe about $40,000 on two cars, and our combined income is around $150,000. Since we have a good income, we were thinking about finishing our emergency fund and contributing to our IRAs while we finish off the car payments. Under the circumstances, is this okay?PaolaDear Paola,I understand the temptation you guys are facing. But there’s a power in behavior modification on a short-term basis that supersedes the power of mathematics. Stick to the plan, and pay off the cars first.When you’re still on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/dave-ramsey-7-baby-steps" target="_blank">Baby Step</a>&nbsp;2, you need to stop all saving and investing, and attack your debts with a vengeance. You’ve got a lot of money wrapped up in cars, and even with all the great work you two have done I know it’s probably still a little hard to see light at the end of the tunnel. Debts that large can be intimidating.But I’m afraid you’ll lose focus and intensity when it comes to getting out of debt if you worry about your emergency fund and setting aside for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/daves-investing-philosophy" target="_blank">retirement</a>&nbsp;too soon. I’ve seen that happen to lots of people, and when it does it can end up taking several years to get rid of all that debt.You guys have made great progress, and you’re making good money. If you stay gazelle-intense about getting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-calculator" target="_blank">out of debt</a>, those car payments can be history in about a year and a half. Think about how fast you can get that emergency fund in place then,&nbsp;and&nbsp;how much money you’ll have freed up to go into retirement.Now is the time to roll up your sleeves, get mad about all that stupid debt and knock it out once and for all. You can do this, Paola!Dave

DAVE SAYS: Focus on the debt first, then save and invest

Today is Friday, April 15, the 105th day of 2022. There are 260 days left in the year.

On April 15, 1912, the British luxury liner RMS Titanic foundered in the North Atlantic off Newfoundland more than 2 1/2 hours after hitting an iceberg; 1,514 people died, while less than half as many survived.

In 1865, President Abraham Lincoln died nine hours after being shot the night before by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre in Washington; Andrew Johnson became the nation's 17th president.

In 1892, General Electric Co., formed by the merger of the Edison Electric Light Co. and other firms, was incorporated in Schenectady, New York.

In 1945, during World War II, British and Canadian troops liberated the Nazi concentration camp Bergen-Belsen. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who died on April 12, was buried at the Roosevelt family home in Hyde Park, New York.

In 1947, Jackie Robinson, baseball's first Black major league player of the modern era, made his official debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers on opening day at Ebbets Field. (The Dodgers defeated the Boston Braves, 5-3.)

In 1955, Ray Kroc opened the first franchised McDonald's restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois.

In 1974, members of the Symbionese Liberation Army held up a branch of the Hibernia Bank in San Francisco; a member of the group was SLA kidnap victim Patricia Hearst, who by this time was going by the name "Tania" (Hearst later said she'd been forced to participate).

In 1989, 96 people died in a crush of soccer fans at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield, England. Students in Beijing launched a series of pro-democracy protests; the demonstrations culminated in a government crackdown at Tiananmen Square.

In 1998, Pol Pot, the notorious leader of the Khmer Rouge, died at age 72, evading prosecution for the deaths of 2 million Cambodians.

In 2009, whipped up by conservative commentators and bloggers, tens of thousands of protesters staged "tea parties" around the country to tap into the collective angst stirred up by a bad economy, government spending and bailouts.

In 2013, two bombs made from pressure cookers exploded at the Boston Marathon finish line, killing two women and an 8-year-old boy and injuring more than 260. Suspected bomber Tamerlan Tsarnaev (TAM'-ehr-luhn tsahr-NEYE'-ehv) died in a shootout with police; his brother, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (joh-HAHR' tsahr-NEYE'-ehv), was tried, convicted and sentenced to death. (A federal appeals court threw out the death sentence, but the Supreme Court reinstated it in March 2022.)

In 2019, fire swept across the top of the Notre Dame Cathedral as the soaring Paris landmark underwent renovations; the blaze collapsed the cathedral's spire and spread to one of its landmark rectangular towers, but fire officials said the church's structure had been saved.

In 2020, the government reported that the nation's industrial output in March registered its biggest decline since the U.S. demobilized at the end of World War II as factories shut down amid the coronavirus epidemic. The Treasury Department confirmed that, in an unprecedented move, President Donald Trump's name would appear on the stimulus checks that the IRS would be sending to tens of millions of Americans.

Ten years ago: North Korea's new leader, Kim Jong Un, gave his first public speech since taking power upon death of his father, Kim Jong Il, the previous December, portraying himself as a strong military chief unafraid of foreign powers. Passengers and crew of the cruise ship MS Balmoral said prayers at the spot in the North Atlantic where the Titanic sank 100 years earlier.

Five years ago: North Korea paraded its intercontinental ballistic missiles in a massive military display in central Pyongyang as it celebrated the 1912 birthday of the country's founder, Kim Il Sung, with his grandson, Kim Jong Un, looking on with delight.

One year ago: Eight people were shot and killed at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis by a former FedEx employee who then took his own life. The White House announced the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats and sanctions against dozens of people and companies; the moves were to hold the Kremlin accountable for interference in the 2020 presidential election and the SolarWinds cyber hacking of federal government agencies. The defense at the Minneapolis murder trial of former Officer Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd rested its case without putting Chauvin on the stand.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Claudia Cardinale is 84. Author and politician Jeffrey Archer is 82. Rock singer-guitarist Dave Edmunds is 79. Actor Michael Tucci is 76. Actor Lois Chiles is 75. Writer-producer Linda Bloodworth-Thomason is 75. Actor Amy Wright is 72. Columnist Heloise is 71. Actor Sam McMurray is 70. Actor-screenwriter Emma Thompson is 63. Bluegrass musician Jeff Parker is 61. Singer Samantha Fox is 56. Olympic gold, silver and bronze medal swimmer Dara Torres is 55. Rock musician Ed O'Brien (Radiohead) is 54. Actor Flex Alexander is 52. Actor Danny Pino is 48. Actor Douglas Spain is 48. Country singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton is 44. Actor Luke Evans is 43. Rock musician Patrick Carney (The Black Keys) is 42. Rock musician Zach Carothers (Portugal. The Man) is 41. Actor-writer Seth Rogen is 40. Actor Alice Braga is 39. Americana singer-songwriter Margo Price is 39. Rock musician De'Mar Hamilton (Plain White T's) is 38. Actor Samira Wiley is 35. Actor Leonie Elliott is 34. Actor Emma Watson is 32. Actor Maisie Williams is 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Friday, April 15, the 105th day of 2022. There are 260 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On April 15, 1912, the British luxury liner RMS Titanic foundered in the North Atlantic off Newfoundland more than 2 1/2 hours after hitting an iceberg; 1,514 people died, while less than half as many survived.On this date:In 1865, President Abraham Lincoln died nine hours after being shot the night before by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre in Washington; Andrew Johnson became the nation's 17th president.In 1892, General Electric Co., formed by the merger of the Edison Electric Light Co. and other firms, was incorporated in Schenectady, New York.In 1945, during World War II, British and Canadian troops liberated the Nazi concentration camp Bergen-Belsen. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who died on April 12, was buried at the Roosevelt family home in Hyde Park, New York.In 1947, Jackie Robinson, baseball's first Black major league player of the modern era, made his official debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers on opening day at Ebbets Field. (The Dodgers defeated the Boston Braves, 5-3.)In 1955, Ray Kroc opened the first franchised McDonald's restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois.In 1974, members of the Symbionese Liberation Army held up a branch of the Hibernia Bank in San Francisco; a member of the group was SLA kidnap victim Patricia Hearst, who by this time was going by the name "Tania" (Hearst later said she'd been forced to participate).In 1989, 96 people died in a crush of soccer fans at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield, England. Students in Beijing launched a series of pro-democracy protests; the demonstrations culminated in a government crackdown at Tiananmen Square.In 1998, Pol Pot, the notorious leader of the Khmer Rouge, died at age 72, evading prosecution for the deaths of 2 million Cambodians.In 2009, whipped up by conservative commentators and bloggers, tens of thousands of protesters staged "tea parties" around the country to tap into the collective angst stirred up by a bad economy, government spending and bailouts.In 2013, two bombs made from pressure cookers exploded at the Boston Marathon finish line, killing two women and an 8-year-old boy and injuring more than 260. Suspected bomber Tamerlan Tsarnaev (TAM'-ehr-luhn tsahr-NEYE'-ehv) died in a shootout with police; his brother, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (joh-HAHR' tsahr-NEYE'-ehv), was tried, convicted and sentenced to death. (A federal appeals court threw out the death sentence, but the Supreme Court reinstated it in March 2022.)In 2019, fire swept across the top of the Notre Dame Cathedral as the soaring Paris landmark underwent renovations; the blaze collapsed the cathedral's spire and spread to one of its landmark rectangular towers, but fire officials said the church's structure had been saved.In 2020, the government reported that the nation's industrial output in March registered its biggest decline since the U.S. demobilized at the end of World War II as factories shut down amid the coronavirus epidemic. The Treasury Department confirmed that, in an unprecedented move, President Donald Trump's name would appear on the stimulus checks that the IRS would be sending to tens of millions of Americans.Ten years ago: North Korea's new leader, Kim Jong Un, gave his first public speech since taking power upon death of his father, Kim Jong Il, the previous December, portraying himself as a strong military chief unafraid of foreign powers. Passengers and crew of the cruise ship MS Balmoral said prayers at the spot in the North Atlantic where the Titanic sank 100 years earlier.Five years ago: North Korea paraded its intercontinental ballistic missiles in a massive military display in central Pyongyang as it celebrated the 1912 birthday of the country's founder, Kim Il Sung, with his grandson, Kim Jong Un, looking on with delight.One year ago: Eight people were shot and killed at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis by a former FedEx employee who then took his own life. The White House announced the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats and sanctions against dozens of people and companies; the moves were to hold the Kremlin accountable for interference in the 2020 presidential election and the SolarWinds cyber hacking of federal government agencies. The defense at the Minneapolis murder trial of former Officer Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd rested its case without putting Chauvin on the stand.Today's Birthdays: Actor Claudia Cardinale is 84. Author and politician Jeffrey Archer is 82. Rock singer-guitarist Dave Edmunds is 79. Actor Michael Tucci is 76. Actor Lois Chiles is 75. Writer-producer Linda Bloodworth-Thomason is 75. Actor Amy Wright is 72. Columnist Heloise is 71. Actor Sam McMurray is 70. Actor-screenwriter Emma Thompson is 63. Bluegrass musician Jeff Parker is 61. Singer Samantha Fox is 56. Olympic gold, silver and bronze medal swimmer Dara Torres is 55. Rock musician Ed O'Brien (Radiohead) is 54. Actor Flex Alexander is 52. Actor Danny Pino is 48. Actor Douglas Spain is 48. Country singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton is 44. Actor Luke Evans is 43. Rock musician Patrick Carney (The Black Keys) is 42. Rock musician Zach Carothers (Portugal. The Man) is 41. Actor-writer Seth Rogen is 40. Actor Alice Braga is 39. Americana singer-songwriter Margo Price is 39. Rock musician De'Mar Hamilton (Plain White T's) is 38. Actor Samira Wiley is 35. Actor Leonie Elliott is 34. Actor Emma Watson is 32. Actor Maisie Williams is 25.

Today in History - April 15

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly was in Salina Thursday afternoon to announce the addition of three cities - including Salina - to the state's Kansas Main Street program.

In addition to Salina, Great Bend and Hays are rejoining the Kansas Main Street program, Kelly said.

"Salina, along with Great Bend and Hays, recognize the value of having the support and guidance from the state and Main Street America programs," Kelly said. "Because of these communities' strong leadership and commitment, they've returned to this program that, without a doubt, is proving to be a winning approach to economic development."

Kelly said that when she took office, she "quickly re-established the Community Development Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce and we brought back the proven Kansas Main Street program."

"This program gives our communities access to key technical services, networking, and training opportunities. It also allows local officials to prioritize restoring and preserving unique, historic downtown business districts," Kelly said. "It supports community development and projects that draw in new businesses, that improve quality of life, and encourage our young folks to stay and raise families in their own home communities."

Kelly said the state has made significant progress in economic development, something of which everyone should be proud.

"There is more economic opportunity in Kansas today then at any time in Kansas history. My administration has created more than 600 new economic development projects. We've brought more than $8.6 billion in new capital investment to the state. We've created or retained more than 42,000 jobs. Many of those jobs and much of that capital investment have been right here in Salina, Kansas," she said.

With the addition of Great Bend, Hays, and Salina, the Kansas Main Street program now has 35 designated communities "working to make substantial improvements and significant quality of life enhancements in those communities," Kelly added.

Salina Downtown, Inc., Executive Director Leslie Bishop said downtown Salina is thrilled to be a member of Kansas Main Street once again.

"Being a part of Kansas Main Street keeps us connected with other local communities that are doing the same thing we are," Bishop told Salina Post. "Keeping local dollars in Salina. Having people do business in Salina. It's so important. It grows our economy."

Salina Mayor Trent Davis talked about the importance of the downtown revitalization project, which was funded with both public and private money. 

He also noted that every great city has its place where people gather. 

"In Kansas City, you have the Country Club Plaza and the Power and Light District. New York, of course, has Times Square. If you're in Chicago and you're hungry, you want to go shopping or just hang out, you go to Navy Pier," Davis said. 

In Salina, that place is downtown, he said.

Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said he actually first became involved in the Main Street program in downtown Salina as a director of the local program in the early 1990s. From Salina, Sewell moved on to the state organization.

"It's been great to follow the progress that has happened here in downtown Salina over all these years. We talked about this earlier today how you talk about things in the future and you want them to happen, and then to see them happen is really exciting," Sewell said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649976446416.jpeg" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly was in Salina Thursday afternoon to announce that Salina, as well as Great Bend and Hays, had rejoined the Kansas Main Street program. The announcement was made in the Watson Room of the Stiefel Theatre. Photos by Leslie Eikleberry/Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly was in Salina Thursday afternoon to announce that Salina, as well as Great Bend and Hays, had rejoined the Kansas Main Street program. The announcement was made in the Watson Room of the Stiefel Theatre. Photos by Leslie Eikleberry/Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostKansas Governor Laura Kelly was in Salina Thursday afternoon to announce the addition of three cities - including Salina - to the state's Kansas Main Street program.In addition to Salina, Great Bend and Hays are rejoining the Kansas Main Street program, Kelly said."Salina, along with Great Bend and Hays, recognize the value of having the support and guidance from the state and Main Street America programs," Kelly said. "Because of these communities' strong leadership and commitment, they've returned to this program that, without a doubt, is proving to be a winning approach to economic development."Kelly said that when she took office, she "quickly re-established the Community Development Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce and we brought back the proven Kansas Main Street program.""This program gives our communities access to key technical services, networking, and training opportunities. It also allows local officials to prioritize restoring and preserving unique, historic downtown business districts," Kelly said. "It supports community development and projects that draw in new businesses, that improve quality of life, and encourage our young folks to stay and raise families in their own home communities."Kelly said the state has made significant progress in economic development, something of which everyone should be proud."There is more economic opportunity in Kansas today then at any time in Kansas history. My administration has created more than 600 new economic development projects. We've brought more than $8.6 billion in new capital investment to the state. We've created or retained more than 42,000 jobs. Many of those jobs and much of that capital investment have been right here in Salina, Kansas," she said.With the addition of Great Bend, Hays, and Salina, the Kansas Main Street program now has 35 designated communities "working to make substantial improvements and significant quality of life enhancements in those communities," Kelly added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649976718099.jpeg" alt="The governor, left, speaks with Leslie Bishop, executive director of Salina Downtown, Inc.,&nbsp;April Rickman, executive assistant/event planner for Salina Downtown, and Dian Gebhardt, downtown aesthetic specialist for Salina Downtown." />
 <figcaption>The governor, left, speaks with Leslie Bishop, executive director of Salina Downtown, Inc.,&nbsp;April Rickman, executive assistant/event planner for Salina Downtown, and Dian Gebhardt, downtown aesthetic specialist for Salina Downtown.</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Downtown, Inc., Executive Director Leslie Bishop said downtown Salina is thrilled to be a member of Kansas Main Street once again."Being a part of Kansas Main Street keeps us connected with other local communities that are doing the same thing we are," Bishop told Salina Post. "Keeping local dollars in Salina. Having people do business in Salina. It's so important. It grows our economy."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649977028288.jpeg" alt="Salina Mayor Trent Davis" />
 <figcaption>Salina Mayor Trent Davis</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Mayor Trent Davis talked about the importance of the downtown revitalization project, which was funded with both public and private money. He also noted that every great city has its place where people gather. "In Kansas City, you have the Country Club Plaza and the Power and Light District. New York, of course, has Times Square. If you're in Chicago and you're hungry, you want to go shopping or just hang out, you go to Navy Pier," Davis said. In Salina, that place is downtown, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649977067082.jpeg" alt="Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said he actually first became involved in the Main Street program in downtown Salina as a director of the local program in the early 1990s. From Salina, Sewell moved on to the state organization."It's been great to follow the progress that has happened here in downtown Salina over all these years. We talked about this earlier today how you talk about things in the future and you want them to happen, and then to see them happen is really exciting," Sewell said.

Governor: Salina rejoining Kansas Main Street program

MANHATTAN — Katie Sleichter, junior in political science,&nbsp;Clay Center, is Kansas State University’s 37th Truman scholar. Sleichter is receiving a 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.truman.gov/" target="_blank">Harry S. Truman scholarship</a>&nbsp;for her academic excellence, leadership and commitment to a career in public service. The Truman scholarship is a highly competitive national award that provides up to $30,000&nbsp;for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities within the federal government.&nbsp;According to the Truman Foundation, 58 scholarships were awarded this year from a candidate pool of 705 students nominated by 275 colleges and universities. "We wish to congratulate Katie on this tremendous honor," said President Richard Linton. "She joins a long line of K-State Truman scholars committed to public service. Katie's dedication to understanding global cooperation and food insecurity shows how K-Staters put our land-grant mission into action to advance the well-being of Kansas, the nation and the world. She represents the best of K-State, and we are so proud of her." Sleichter also is pursuing a secondary major in global food systems leadership at K-State. After graduation, she plans to earn a Master of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. She wants to pursue a career in the foreign service as a political officer or a public diplomacy officer so that she can increase global cooperation on borderless issues. "Many of the issues that are facing the world, such as food security, climate change and the refugee crises, require collaboration between not only a variety of different organizations but also many countries," Sleichter said. "I believe that by studying foreign service at a graduate level, I will be better equipped to begin tackling issues such as these through increased global cooperation during my career."&nbsp; Sleichter grew up on a vegetable farm in rural Kansas, which has inspired her passion for addressing food insecurity and other global issues. Her family has lived in rural Kansas for more than a century. At K-State, Sleichter is a food security scholar, which is a leadership program for students interested in understanding food systems and challenging the way we think about food insecurity. She is involved in International Buddies and the Food Recovery Network and is a coordinator for International Service Teams. She has been selected into Blue Key Honor Society and will serve as the director of leadership programming for 2022-2023. She also has been involved in the Kansas State University Student Foundation, Student Governing Association as the campus culture director, Quest Freshman Honorary and West Hall governing board. She is a Hagan scholar, 4-H Key Award recipient, Borlaug scholar and Kansas honors scholar. She has received an FFA state degree and an animal science academic achievement award. Sleichter is the daughter of Jay and Linda Sleichter and is a 2019 graduate of Clay Center Community High School.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649962814974.jpeg" alt="Katie Sleichter KSU Truman Scholar. Photo courtesy Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Katie Sleichter KSU Truman Scholar. Photo courtesy Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>KSUMANHATTAN — Katie Sleichter, junior in political science,&nbsp;Clay Center, is Kansas State University’s 37th Truman scholar. Sleichter is receiving a 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.truman.gov/" target="_blank">Harry S. Truman scholarship</a>&nbsp;for her academic excellence, leadership and commitment to a career in public service. The Truman scholarship is a highly competitive national award that provides up to $30,000&nbsp;for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities within the federal government.&nbsp;According to the Truman Foundation, 58 scholarships were awarded this year from a candidate pool of 705 students nominated by 275 colleges and universities. "We wish to congratulate Katie on this tremendous honor," said President Richard Linton. "She joins a long line of K-State Truman scholars committed to public service. Katie's dedication to understanding global cooperation and food insecurity shows how K-Staters put our land-grant mission into action to advance the well-being of Kansas, the nation and the world. She represents the best of K-State, and we are so proud of her." Sleichter also is pursuing a secondary major in global food systems leadership at K-State. After graduation, she plans to earn a Master of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. She wants to pursue a career in the foreign service as a political officer or a public diplomacy officer so that she can increase global cooperation on borderless issues. "Many of the issues that are facing the world, such as food security, climate change and the refugee crises, require collaboration between not only a variety of different organizations but also many countries," Sleichter said. "I believe that by studying foreign service at a graduate level, I will be better equipped to begin tackling issues such as these through increased global cooperation during my career."&nbsp; Sleichter grew up on a vegetable farm in rural Kansas, which has inspired her passion for addressing food insecurity and other global issues. Her family has lived in rural Kansas for more than a century. At K-State, Sleichter is a food security scholar, which is a leadership program for students interested in understanding food systems and challenging the way we think about food insecurity. She is involved in International Buddies and the Food Recovery Network and is a coordinator for International Service Teams. She has been selected into Blue Key Honor Society and will serve as the director of leadership programming for 2022-2023. She also has been involved in the Kansas State University Student Foundation, Student Governing Association as the campus culture director, Quest Freshman Honorary and West Hall governing board. She is a Hagan scholar, 4-H Key Award recipient, Borlaug scholar and Kansas honors scholar. She has received an FFA state degree and an animal science academic achievement award. Sleichter is the daughter of Jay and Linda Sleichter and is a 2019 graduate of Clay Center Community High School.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Clay Center's Sleichter named KSU's 37th Truman scholar

ALLIANCE, Neb. — A Kansas man has been charged with two felonies and two misdemeanors for allegedly causing the death of an Alliance woman.

The Box Butte County (Neb.) Attorney’s office has charged 36-year-old Ryan J. McElroy of Salina with motor vehicle homicide, manslaughter, third offense drunk driving and willful reckless driving.&nbsp;

The charges stem from an April 10 collision when McElroy hit a vehicle driven by 22-year-old Blythe Boness of Alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boness was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision, which occurred east of Alliance on Highway 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A Nebraska State Patrol arrest affidavit states that McElroy was driving on a suspended Kansas driver’s license.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The affidavit also states that Emergency Medical Personnel detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from McElroy and also viewed him to have bloodshot eyes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In McElroy’s vehicle, Troopers observed a half consumed 375 milliliter (12.6 oz) bottle of Fireball Whiskey.&nbsp;

McElroy told NSP that he had not been drinking, but stated he was looking at his phone when he veered into Boness’ lane.&nbsp;

McElroy was airlifted to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The arrest affidavit states that McElroy initially refused to submit to a blood test.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol then obtained a warrant and a blood sample was drawn from McElroy to determine his blood alcohol concentration.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Box Butte County Court Judge Paul Wess has set McElroy’s bond at 10% of $100,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A warrant has been issued for McElroy’s arrest.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

An initial court date has not yet been scheduled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580401397117.jpeg" alt="Ryan McElroy.&nbsp;Photos from January 2020 courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ryan McElroy.&nbsp;Photos from January 2020 courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. — A Kansas man has been charged with two felonies and two misdemeanors for allegedly causing the death of an Alliance woman.The Box Butte County (Neb.) Attorney’s office has charged 36-year-old Ryan J. McElroy of Salina with motor vehicle homicide, manslaughter, third offense drunk driving and willful reckless driving.&nbsp;The charges stem from an April 10 collision when McElroy hit a vehicle driven by 22-year-old Blythe Boness of Alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Boness was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision, which occurred east of Alliance on Highway 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;A Nebraska State Patrol arrest affidavit states that McElroy was driving on a suspended Kansas driver’s license.&nbsp;&nbsp;The affidavit also states that Emergency Medical Personnel detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from McElroy and also viewed him to have bloodshot eyes.&nbsp;&nbsp;In McElroy’s vehicle, Troopers observed a half consumed 375 milliliter (12.6 oz) bottle of Fireball Whiskey.&nbsp;McElroy told NSP that he had not been drinking, but stated he was looking at his phone when he veered into Boness’ lane.&nbsp;McElroy was airlifted to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.&nbsp;&nbsp;The arrest affidavit states that McElroy initially refused to submit to a blood test.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol then obtained a warrant and a blood sample was drawn from McElroy to determine his blood alcohol concentration.&nbsp; &nbsp;Box Butte County Court Judge Paul Wess has set McElroy’s bond at 10% of $100,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;A warrant has been issued for McElroy’s arrest.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;An initial court date has not yet been scheduled.

Salina man faces vehicular homicide charge after Neb. woman's death

This year's Smoky Hill River Festival certainly doesn't lack for entertainment.

The 46th Smoky Hill River Festival is scheduled for June 9-12 in Oakdale Park. Admission is by weekend wristband ($15 in advance, $20 at the gate) or daily wristband ($10, sold only at the gate). Children ages 11 and under are admitted at no charge.

Weekend wristbands are scheduled to go on sale May first and will be sold locally and in cities throughout the region, according to SA&amp;H. See a list of local and regional wristband retailers at: <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/participating-retailers/">https://www.riverfestival.com/participating-retailers/</a>.

In addition to the main stage acts, the festival also has a number of children's and roving entertainers. 

Following is information about those entertainers as provided by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cbef352a-d23f-4a0f-89b8-e5ca7dcdb149">Smoky Hill River Festival highlights announced</a>

Duke Otherwise Madison, Wis. Duke Otherwise is a playful wordsmith, a spirited performer, a skilled guitarist, and a captivating tap dancer. Using his distinct baritone, he sings hilarious and imaginative songs that all ages delight in together. Duke’s energetic live show is filled with improvisation, audience participation, dancing, and outrageous fun!

Drum Safari Kansas City, Mo. Brandon and Teryn Draper are no strangers to the Smoky Hill River Festival. This year, Festival-goers can expect onstage science experiments, hands-on drumming participation, a puppet show featuring an intergalactic dance battle and the impromptu drum jams that make Drum Safari famous!

Richard Renner Lawrence Hedge People, the Recycle Cycle, and more. Richard Renner is bringing his wacky bag of tricks to the Festival this year! Each day, visitors will experience new characters and opportunities to interact. Why have a little fun when you can have TOO MUCH?!

Up, Up, &amp; Away! Liberty, Mo. Festival favorites Johnna and John Perry interact with the crowd while twisting and turning 100% natural rubber balloons into artistic 3-D creatures, hats, and more, as they rove throughout Oakdale Park. Even the youngest Festival fans will be the stars, as these balloon masters deliver one-of-a-kind creations!

StatuEscapades™ Kansas City, Mo. StatuEscapade™ Statues are a work of art and more! What looks like a classic Greek or Roman statue when still becomes a modern scene-stealer when moving. Their absurd antics will make a grand impression as they interact directly with guests, then freeze motionless for minutes on end! It is art imitating life and life imitating art and both having a good laugh!

Happy Faces Entertainment Kansas City, Mo. Dennis Porter is sure to keep crowds laughing as he engages Festival fans young and old in a host of entertaining games and activities. Teaching, playing, and having lots of fun is what these shows are all about. Come give it a try!

Clan Tynker Santa Fe, N.M. Clan Tynker is a troupe of brothers and sisters who perform a stunning array of talents in a fanciful “Vaudeville” style of Circus. Their all-ages show presents an amazing menagerie of entertainment from “around the world” set to an exciting live musical soundscape.

Junkyard Orchestra Kansas City, Mo. Kansas City multi-instrumentalist Amado Espinoza, featuring Brendan Culp on percussion, will delight audiences with the Junkyard Orchestra, demonstrating how musical instruments can be made out of practically anything. Whether they’re playing a classical Arabic flute made from a broom or a Bolivian guitar fashioned out of a cookie tin, the Junkyard Orchestra demonstrates how the science of music and art can combine to help save the planet Earth.

By SALINA POSTThis year's Smoky Hill River Festival certainly doesn't lack for entertainment.The 46th Smoky Hill River Festival is scheduled for June 9-12 in Oakdale Park. Admission is by weekend wristband ($15 in advance, $20 at the gate) or daily wristband ($10, sold only at the gate). Children ages 11 and under are admitted at no charge.Weekend wristbands are scheduled to go on sale May first and will be sold locally and in cities throughout the region, according to SA&amp;H. See a list of local and regional wristband retailers at: <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/participating-retailers/">https://www.riverfestival.com/participating-retailers/</a>.In addition to the main stage acts, the festival also has a number of children's and roving entertainers. Following is information about those entertainers as provided by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cbef352a-d23f-4a0f-89b8-e5ca7dcdb149">Smoky Hill River Festival highlights announced</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649955744758.png" alt="Duke Otherwise. Photos courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Duke Otherwise. Photos courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>Duke Otherwise Madison, Wis. Duke Otherwise is a playful wordsmith, a spirited performer, a skilled guitarist, and a captivating tap dancer. Using his distinct baritone, he sings hilarious and imaginative songs that all ages delight in together. Duke’s energetic live show is filled with improvisation, audience participation, dancing, and outrageous fun!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649955811022.png" alt="Drum Safari" />
 <figcaption>Drum Safari</figcaption>
 </figure>Drum Safari Kansas City, Mo. Brandon and Teryn Draper are no strangers to the Smoky Hill River Festival. This year, Festival-goers can expect onstage science experiments, hands-on drumming participation, a puppet show featuring an intergalactic dance battle and the impromptu drum jams that make Drum Safari famous!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649955855148.png" alt="Richard Renner" />
 <figcaption>Richard Renner</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard Renner Lawrence Hedge People, the Recycle Cycle, and more. Richard Renner is bringing his wacky bag of tricks to the Festival this year! Each day, visitors will experience new characters and opportunities to interact. Why have a little fun when you can have TOO MUCH?!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649955908764.png" alt="Up, Up &amp; Away!" />
 <figcaption>Up, Up &amp; Away!</figcaption>
 </figure>Up, Up, &amp; Away! Liberty, Mo. Festival favorites Johnna and John Perry interact with the crowd while twisting and turning 100% natural rubber balloons into artistic 3-D creatures, hats, and more, as they rove throughout Oakdale Park. Even the youngest Festival fans will be the stars, as these balloon masters deliver one-of-a-kind creations!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649955991956.png" alt="StatuEscapade™" />
 <figcaption>StatuEscapade™</figcaption>
 </figure>StatuEscapades™ Kansas City, Mo. StatuEscapade™ Statues are a work of art and more! What looks like a classic Greek or Roman statue when still becomes a modern scene-stealer when moving. Their absurd antics will make a grand impression as they interact directly with guests, then freeze motionless for minutes on end! It is art imitating life and life imitating art and both having a good laugh!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649956041420.png" alt="Happy Faces Entertainment" />
 <figcaption>Happy Faces Entertainment</figcaption>
 </figure>Happy Faces Entertainment Kansas City, Mo. Dennis Porter is sure to keep crowds laughing as he engages Festival fans young and old in a host of entertaining games and activities. Teaching, playing, and having lots of fun is what these shows are all about. Come give it a try!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649956082985.png" alt="Clan Tynker" />
 <figcaption>Clan Tynker</figcaption>
 </figure>Clan Tynker Santa Fe, N.M. Clan Tynker is a troupe of brothers and sisters who perform a stunning array of talents in a fanciful “Vaudeville” style of Circus. Their all-ages show presents an amazing menagerie of entertainment from “around the world” set to an exciting live musical soundscape.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649956140732.png" alt="Junkyard Orchestra" />
 <figcaption>Junkyard Orchestra</figcaption>
 </figure>Junkyard Orchestra Kansas City, Mo. Kansas City multi-instrumentalist Amado Espinoza, featuring Brendan Culp on percussion, will delight audiences with the Junkyard Orchestra, demonstrating how musical instruments can be made out of practically anything. Whether they’re playing a classical Arabic flute made from a broom or a Bolivian guitar fashioned out of a cookie tin, the Junkyard Orchestra demonstrates how the science of music and art can combine to help save the planet Earth.

River festival also has children's, roving entertainers

BELOIT — The North Central Regional Planning Commission Executive Board has announced that John Shea from Bangor, Maine, has been named the organization’s next executive director beginning May 2.

For the past 25 years, Shea has held a variety of leadership roles in organizations across New England, including that of being the Executive Director of the New England Governors’ Conference and of a variety of issue-oriented nonprofit groups and county-level economic development organizations. He has subsequently been engaged in community and economic development, energy conservation and development, environmental protection, transportation planning, and other issues facing residents of rural areas.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to join such a wonderful organization and community, and I look forward to working with all the constituencies of our twelve counties to strengthen the economy and quality of life in north-central Kansas,” Shea said.

Shea holds degrees in economics and Soviet Studies, and he has done considerable policy work in areas such as energy, the environment, and economic development. His background also includes experience in community and regional planning as well as long-term strategic development, and serving in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. “John brings a broad range of knowledge and experience to the organization,” North Central Regional Planning Commission Executive Board Chair Tom Claussen said. “We are happy to have him join the NCRPC team and we look forward to continuing to serve our partners from the region and beyond under his leadership.”

The North Central Regional Planning Commission is a comprehensive planning and development organization serving a 12-county region in north-central Kansas. Several of its programs and services also extend into much of Kansas. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ncrpc.org/" target="_blank">www.ncrpc.org</a>.

BELOIT — The North Central Regional Planning Commission Executive Board has announced that John Shea from Bangor, Maine, has been named the organization’s next executive director beginning May 2. For the past 25 years, Shea has held a variety of leadership roles in organizations across New England, including that of being the Executive Director of the New England Governors’ Conference and of a variety of issue-oriented nonprofit groups and county-level economic development organizations. He has subsequently been engaged in community and economic development, energy conservation and development, environmental protection, transportation planning, and other issues facing residents of rural areas. “I’m excited about the opportunity to join such a wonderful organization and community, and I look forward to working with all the constituencies of our twelve counties to strengthen the economy and quality of life in north-central Kansas,” Shea said. Shea holds degrees in economics and Soviet Studies, and he has done considerable policy work in areas such as energy, the environment, and economic development. His background also includes experience in community and regional planning as well as long-term strategic development, and serving in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. “John brings a broad range of knowledge and experience to the organization,” North Central Regional Planning Commission Executive Board Chair Tom Claussen said. “We are happy to have him join the NCRPC team and we look forward to continuing to serve our partners from the region and beyond under his leadership.” The North Central Regional Planning Commission is a comprehensive planning and development organization serving a 12-county region in north-central Kansas. Several of its programs and services also extend into much of Kansas. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ncrpc.org/" target="_blank">www.ncrpc.org</a>.

North Central Regional Planning Commission names new executive director

A local man's stop at a north Salina bar proved costly when he left his pickup running in the parking lot.

Jacob Cunningham, 28, of Salina, told police that he decided to stop at Chuck's Bar, 600 N. Santa Fe Avenue, at approximately 9:40 p.m. Wednesday. He left his black 1999 Chevrolet Silverado running in the parking lot, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

When Cunningham left the bar, he found that the pickup had been stolen.

The pickup, valued at $2,000, had a Kansas license plate of 675PNT, Forrester said.

Additionally, a Samsung cellphone valued at $200 that was in the pickup also was stolen.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA local man's stop at a north Salina bar proved costly when he left his pickup running in the parking lot.Jacob Cunningham, 28, of Salina, told police that he decided to stop at Chuck's Bar, 600 N. Santa Fe Avenue, at approximately 9:40 p.m. Wednesday. He left his black 1999 Chevrolet Silverado running in the parking lot, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.When Cunningham left the bar, he found that the pickup had been stolen.The pickup, valued at $2,000, had a Kansas license plate of 675PNT, Forrester said.Additionally, a Samsung cellphone valued at $200 that was in the pickup also was stolen.

Pickup stolen after owner leaves it running while in Salina bar

Red flag warnings have been issued for a large part of the state Thursday, including counties in our area.

A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior, according to the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

Winds from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, and relative humidity as low as 13 percent are forecast.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

West winds sustained 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are expected this afternoon. Minimum relative humidity is forecast to range from 13 to 20 percent.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly, the weather service noted. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

West winds at 20 to 25 mph, with gusts of 30 to 40 mph, and relative humidity as low as 10 to 15 percent are forecast.

Any fires that ignite may spread rapidly and exhibit extreme fire behavior. Use extreme caution if engaging in activities that could result in fire ignition.

By SALINA POSTRed flag warnings have been issued for a large part of the state Thursday, including counties in our area.A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior, according to the National Weather Service.The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth County Lincoln CountyMarion County McPherson CountySaline CountyWinds from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, and relative humidity as low as 13 percent are forecast.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountyWest winds sustained 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are expected this afternoon. Minimum relative humidity is forecast to range from 13 to 20 percent.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly, the weather service noted. Outdoor burning is not recommended.The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Jewell CountyMitchell CountyWest winds at 20 to 25 mph, with gusts of 30 to 40 mph, and relative humidity as low as 10 to 15 percent are forecast.Any fires that ignite may spread rapidly and exhibit extreme fire behavior. Use extreme caution if engaging in activities that could result in fire ignition.

Red flag warnings again include our area

Every year more than 2,000 dedicated, engaged, community-minded, and fun volunteers step up to make the Smoky Hill River Festival happen. Volunteering at the River Festival gives participants an exclusive, behind-the-scenes appreciation of the Festival. Volunteers play a huge part in our success!

Local businesses, organizations, students, and civic, church, youth groups, and individuals are encouraged to get involved in the community’s largest epic party, the Smoky Hill River Festival, scheduled for June 9-12, 2022.

Groups or individuals who enjoy serving the community, making new connections, sharing their skills, earning volunteer hours, gaining experience, managing others, and assisting out-of-town guests, including artists and vendors, are encouraged to sign-up.

River Festival volunteers serve two or three-hour shifts, typically working outdoors in the shade. Assist for a shift and stay to enjoy the Festival. Volunteers must be 13 or older and are required to purchase and wear a River Festival admission wristband when they volunteer. A wristband is required to attend the River Festival.

The River Festival has moved to an online signup process to streamline our volunteer recruitment and organization. Go to <a href="https://signup.com/group/275414358093?utm_source=group-badge-volunteer-green">https://signup.com/group/275414358093?utm_source=group-badge-volunteer-green</a> to review all of the volunteer opportunities and sign up for a shift.

For more details, visit <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a> or contact Salina Arts &amp; Humanities at 785-309-5770 or <a href="mailto:sah@salina.org">sah@salina.org</a>. Volunteers are encouraged to sign-up by April 29.

Salina Arts &amp; HumanitiesEvery year more than 2,000 dedicated, engaged, community-minded, and fun volunteers step up to make the Smoky Hill River Festival happen. Volunteering at the River Festival gives participants an exclusive, behind-the-scenes appreciation of the Festival. Volunteers play a huge part in our success!Local businesses, organizations, students, and civic, church, youth groups, and individuals are encouraged to get involved in the community’s largest epic party, the Smoky Hill River Festival, scheduled for June 9-12, 2022.Groups or individuals who enjoy serving the community, making new connections, sharing their skills, earning volunteer hours, gaining experience, managing others, and assisting out-of-town guests, including artists and vendors, are encouraged to sign-up.River Festival volunteers serve two or three-hour shifts, typically working outdoors in the shade. Assist for a shift and stay to enjoy the Festival. Volunteers must be 13 or older and are required to purchase and wear a River Festival admission wristband when they volunteer. A wristband is required to attend the River Festival.The River Festival has moved to an online signup process to streamline our volunteer recruitment and organization. Go to <a href="https://signup.com/group/275414358093?utm_source=group-badge-volunteer-green">https://signup.com/group/275414358093?utm_source=group-badge-volunteer-green</a> to review all of the volunteer opportunities and sign up for a shift.For more details, visit <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a> or contact Salina Arts &amp; Humanities at 785-309-5770 or <a href="mailto:sah@salina.org">sah@salina.org</a>. Volunteers are encouraged to sign-up by April 29.

SA&H seeks volunteers for Smoky Hill River Festival

Do you love working with people while providing great customer service? Then Rolling Hills Zoo has a the perfect position for you as the zoo’s new Assistant Gift Shop Manager. This position will assist with the supervision of the daily operation of the Zoo’s two Gift Shops, ticketing, and tram operations. The right candidate would work a flexible schedule including weekends &amp; holidays, and is eager to provide excellent service to Zoo guests.

Email resume to:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:danitab@rollinghillszoo.org">danitab@rollinghillszoo.org</a>.

*RHZ is a drug free workplace and values diversity in our work force.

Send resume to: 625 N Hedville Rd Salina, KS 67401

Rolling Hills Zoo has a number of fulltime and seasonal job opportunities available. Check these positions out at&nbsp;<a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org/employment">Rollinghillszoo.org/employment</a>&nbsp;for a list of positions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584329403915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Do you love working with people while providing great customer service? Then Rolling Hills Zoo has a the perfect position for you as the zoo’s new Assistant Gift Shop Manager. This position will assist with the supervision of the daily operation of the Zoo’s two Gift Shops, ticketing, and tram operations. The right candidate would work a flexible schedule including weekends &amp; holidays, and is eager to provide excellent service to Zoo guests.Email resume to:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:danitab@rollinghillszoo.org">danitab@rollinghillszoo.org</a>.*RHZ is a drug free workplace and values diversity in our work force.Send resume to: 625 N Hedville Rd Salina, KS 67401Rolling Hills Zoo has a number of fulltime and seasonal job opportunities available. Check these positions out at&nbsp;<a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org/employment">Rollinghillszoo.org/employment</a>&nbsp;for a list of positions.No phone calls please.

Cloud County Health Center among USDA grant recipients

Today is Thursday, April 14, the 104th day of 2022. There are 261 days left in the year.

On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was shot and mortally wounded by John Wilkes Booth during a performance of "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theatre in Washington.

In 1828, the first edition of Noah Webster's "American Dictionary of the English Language" was published.

In 1902, James Cash Penney opened his first store, The Golden Rule, in Kemmerer, Wyoming.

In 1912, the British liner RMS Titanic collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic at 11:40 p.m. ship's time and began sinking. (The ship went under two hours and 40 minutes later with the loss of 1,514 lives.)

In 1910, President William Howard Taft became the first U.S. chief executive to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game as the Washington Senators beat the Philadelphia Athletics 3-0.

In 1935, the "Black Sunday" dust storm descended upon the central Plains, turning a sunny afternoon into total darkness.

In 1949, the "Wilhelmstrasse Trial" in Nuremberg ended with 19 former Nazi Foreign Office officials sentenced by an American tribunal to prison terms ranging from four to 25 years.

In 1960, Tamla Records and Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy Jr., were incorporated as Motown Record Corp.

In 1981, the first test flight of America's first operational space shuttle, the Columbia, ended successfully with a landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

In 1994, two U.S. Air Force F-15 warplanes mistakenly shot down two U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopters over northern Iraq, killing 26 people, including 15 Americans.

In 1999, NATO mistakenly bombed a convoy of ethnic Albanian refugees; Yugoslav officials said 75 people were killed.

In 2007, riot police beat and detained protesters as thousands defied an official ban and attempted to stage a rally in Moscow against Russian President Vladimir Putin's government.

In 2020, President Donald Trump announced that he was cutting off U.S. payments to the U.N. health agency, the World Health Organization; Trump said it had not done enough to stop the coronavirus from spreading.

Ten years ago: In Belfast, Northern Ireland, where the RMS Titanic was built, thousands attended a choral requiem at the Anglican St. Anne's Cathedral or a nationally televised concert at the city's Waterfront Hall to mark the 100th anniversary of the ship's sinking. Eleven Secret Service agents were placed on administrative leave as a deepening scandal involving prostitutes overshadowed President Barack Obama's diplomatic mission to Latin America.

Five years ago: Former NFL star Aaron Hernandez, already serving a life sentence for a 2013 murder, was acquitted in Boston in a 2012 double slaying prosecutors said was fueled by his anger over a drink spilled at a nightclub. (Five days later, Hernandez hanged himself in his prison cell.)

One year ago: A white former suburban Minneapolis police officer, Kim Potter, was charged with second-degree manslaughter for killing 20-year-old Black motorist Daunte Wright in a shooting that ignited days of unrest. (Potter, who said she confused her handgun for her Taser, was convicted of first- and second-degree manslaughter and sentenced to two years in prison.) President Joe Biden said he would withdraw the 2,500 remaining U.S. troops from Afghanistan, with the drawdown to begin by May 1; that date had been the deadline for full withdrawal under a peace agreement that the Trump administration reached with the Taliban in 2020. Bernard Madoff, the infamous architect of an epic securities swindle, died at a federal prison in North Carolina; he was 82. Carlos Rodón threw the second no-hitter of the young baseball season, losing his bid for a perfect game on a hit batter with one out in the ninth inning, and the Chicago White Sox cruised to an 8-0 victory over the Cleveland Indians.

Today's Birthdays: Country singer Loretta Lynn is 90. Actor Julie Christie is 82. Retired MLB All-Star Pete Rose is 81. Rock musician Ritchie Blackmore is 77. Actor John Shea is 74. Actor Peter Capaldi is 64. Actor-turned-race car driver Brian Forster is 62. Actor Brad Garrett is 62. Actor Robert Carlyle is 61. Rock singer-musician John Bell (Widespread Panic) is 60. Actor Robert Clendenin is 58. Actor Catherine Dent is 57. Actor Lloyd Owen is 56. Baseball Hall of Famer Greg Maddux is 56. Rock musician Barrett Martin is 55. Actor Anthony Michael Hall is 54. Actor Adrien Brody is 49. Classical singer David Miller (Il Divo) is 49. Rapper Da Brat is 48. Actor Antwon Tanner is 47. Actor Sarah Michelle Gellar is 45. Actor-producer Rob McElhenney is 45. Roots singer JD McPherson is 45. Rock singer Win Butler (Arcade Fire) is 42. Actor Claire Coffee is 42. Actor Christian Alexander is 32. Actor Nick Krause is 30. Actor Vivien Cardone is 29. Actor Graham Phillips is 29. Actor Skyler Samuels is 28. Actor Abigail Breslin is 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, April 14, the 104th day of 2022. There are 261 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was shot and mortally wounded by John Wilkes Booth during a performance of "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theatre in Washington.On this date:In 1828, the first edition of Noah Webster's "American Dictionary of the English Language" was published.In 1902, James Cash Penney opened his first store, The Golden Rule, in Kemmerer, Wyoming.In 1912, the British liner RMS Titanic collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic at 11:40 p.m. ship's time and began sinking. (The ship went under two hours and 40 minutes later with the loss of 1,514 lives.)In 1910, President William Howard Taft became the first U.S. chief executive to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game as the Washington Senators beat the Philadelphia Athletics 3-0.In 1935, the "Black Sunday" dust storm descended upon the central Plains, turning a sunny afternoon into total darkness.In 1949, the "Wilhelmstrasse Trial" in Nuremberg ended with 19 former Nazi Foreign Office officials sentenced by an American tribunal to prison terms ranging from four to 25 years.In 1960, Tamla Records and Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy Jr., were incorporated as Motown Record Corp.In 1981, the first test flight of America's first operational space shuttle, the Columbia, ended successfully with a landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California.In 1994, two U.S. Air Force F-15 warplanes mistakenly shot down two U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopters over northern Iraq, killing 26 people, including 15 Americans.In 1999, NATO mistakenly bombed a convoy of ethnic Albanian refugees; Yugoslav officials said 75 people were killed.In 2007, riot police beat and detained protesters as thousands defied an official ban and attempted to stage a rally in Moscow against Russian President Vladimir Putin's government.In 2020, President Donald Trump announced that he was cutting off U.S. payments to the U.N. health agency, the World Health Organization; Trump said it had not done enough to stop the coronavirus from spreading.Ten years ago: In Belfast, Northern Ireland, where the RMS Titanic was built, thousands attended a choral requiem at the Anglican St. Anne's Cathedral or a nationally televised concert at the city's Waterfront Hall to mark the 100th anniversary of the ship's sinking. Eleven Secret Service agents were placed on administrative leave as a deepening scandal involving prostitutes overshadowed President Barack Obama's diplomatic mission to Latin America.Five years ago: Former NFL star Aaron Hernandez, already serving a life sentence for a 2013 murder, was acquitted in Boston in a 2012 double slaying prosecutors said was fueled by his anger over a drink spilled at a nightclub. (Five days later, Hernandez hanged himself in his prison cell.)One year ago: A white former suburban Minneapolis police officer, Kim Potter, was charged with second-degree manslaughter for killing 20-year-old Black motorist Daunte Wright in a shooting that ignited days of unrest. (Potter, who said she confused her handgun for her Taser, was convicted of first- and second-degree manslaughter and sentenced to two years in prison.) President Joe Biden said he would withdraw the 2,500 remaining U.S. troops from Afghanistan, with the drawdown to begin by May 1; that date had been the deadline for full withdrawal under a peace agreement that the Trump administration reached with the Taliban in 2020. Bernard Madoff, the infamous architect of an epic securities swindle, died at a federal prison in North Carolina; he was 82. Carlos Rodón threw the second no-hitter of the young baseball season, losing his bid for a perfect game on a hit batter with one out in the ninth inning, and the Chicago White Sox cruised to an 8-0 victory over the Cleveland Indians.Today's Birthdays: Country singer Loretta Lynn is 90. Actor Julie Christie is 82. Retired MLB All-Star Pete Rose is 81. Rock musician Ritchie Blackmore is 77. Actor John Shea is 74. Actor Peter Capaldi is 64. Actor-turned-race car driver Brian Forster is 62. Actor Brad Garrett is 62. Actor Robert Carlyle is 61. Rock singer-musician John Bell (Widespread Panic) is 60. Actor Robert Clendenin is 58. Actor Catherine Dent is 57. Actor Lloyd Owen is 56. Baseball Hall of Famer Greg Maddux is 56. Rock musician Barrett Martin is 55. Actor Anthony Michael Hall is 54. Actor Adrien Brody is 49. Classical singer David Miller (Il Divo) is 49. Rapper Da Brat is 48. Actor Antwon Tanner is 47. Actor Sarah Michelle Gellar is 45. Actor-producer Rob McElhenney is 45. Roots singer JD McPherson is 45. Rock singer Win Butler (Arcade Fire) is 42. Actor Claire Coffee is 42. Actor Christian Alexander is 32. Actor Nick Krause is 30. Actor Vivien Cardone is 29. Actor Graham Phillips is 29. Actor Skyler Samuels is 28. Actor Abigail Breslin is 26.

Today in History - April 14

Many fatal crashes involving a distracted driver do not involve a phone

<h2>Many fatal crashes involving a distracted driver do not involve a phone</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649903957398.png" alt="Photos courtesy AAA Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy AAA Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>AAA KansasWICHITA – Given that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, AAA wants motorists to be aware that, despite perceptions to the contrary, cellphones are not to blame for many of the fatal crashes involving a distracted driver. This is not to say that cellphones are not a significant and potentially deadly distraction, but many other distractions are also cause for concern.According to the latest federal crash data, confirmed smartphone use accounts for about 12 percent of all fatal crashes involving a distracted driver. Although it is widely accepted that distracted driving crashes caused by cellphone use are highly underreported, the data clearly indicates there are many other distractions that warrant our attention as well.“There is no doubt that drivers are uniquely and dramatically distracted by their phones but AAA wants to take this moment to remind drivers that the list of other distracting behaviors is long. Too long. And too many lives are being lost as a result,” said Shawn Steward, AAA Kansas spokesman.In fact, there are 18 possible causes of distracted driving listed on the standardized crash reporting forms investigators are required to fill out - and only three of them refer to a mobile phone. Other distractions include those caused by passengers, drivers adjusting climate or audio controls, reaching for something, eating or drinking and distracting activity outside the vehicle, such as a crash scene.An analysis of data from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) revealed that taking your eyes off the road for more than two seconds doubles your risk of a crash.By the numbers Fatalities on our nation’s roadways have jumped dramatically in the last few years.Due to incomplete and likely underreported data, no one knows exactly how many fatal crashes are caused by driver distraction. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that driver distraction is a factor in almost 9 percent of fatal crashes.Analysis of the latest data from NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) found that:●In 2020, there were more than 3,000 people killed in motor vehicle crashes involving drivers reported by the police as distracted.●Of those killed in crashes reported as involving a distracted driver, almost 20% were between the ages of 25-35.Pedestrian DeathsPedestrian deaths are skyrocketing nationally, and distracted driving has been identified as a contributing factor in many of those crashes.●In 2020, there were 480 pedestrians, 83 cyclists, and 14 other non-occupants killed in crashes that involved a driver who was reported to be distracted.●And, in the first six months of 2021, the latest data available, pedestrian deaths nationwide increase by 17% over the same period the year before.Don’t Drive Intexticated While the phone alone is not to blame for many of the distracted driving fatalities, there are still hundreds of lives lost each year because someone felt the need to answer a call, send a text or read an email. In its annual survey about driver behaviors - the Traffic Safety Culture Index – the AAAFTS found:●about 25 percent of drivers surveyed report typing or sending a text message or email within the past month. ●more than 1 in 3 report reading a text or email while driving within the past monthThis is why AAA launched its ‘Don’t Drive Intexticated’ campaign in 2019, reminding all drivers that just as they would not drive intoxicated, driving ‘intexticated’ is also a risk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649904055104.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>AAA is urging drivers to put their phones down, look up and limit ALL distractions.Slow down, move over Distracted drivers are unlikely to see first responders working at the roadside. Move Over laws exist in all 50 states and - while the laws vary from state to state - generally speaking, drivers are required to slow down and move over a lane any time there is a first responder working at the roadside. In Kansas, this includes police, fire, ambulances, tow vehicles, KDOT or construction workers, utility vehicles and waste vehicles.“It seems fitting that Distracted Driving Awareness Month intersects this week with National Work Zone Awareness Week because distracted driving puts those who work at the roadside at greater risk,” Steward said. “But the growing number of lives lost clearly illustrates that distracted driving in all its forms needs greater attention year round.”AAA tips to eliminate distracted driving●Fully focus on driving. Do not let anything divert your attention, actively scan the road, use your mirrors and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.●Put aside your electronic distractions. Don’t use cell phones while driving – handheld or hands-free – except in absolute emergencies. Never use text messaging, email functions, video games or the internet with a wireless device, including those built into the vehicle, while driving.●Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature while you are driving. ●Make adjustments before you get underway. Address vehicle systems like your GPS, seats, mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before hitting the road. Decide on your route and check traffic conditions ahead of time.●If you have passengers, enlist their help so you can focus safely on driving.●If another activity demands your attention, instead of trying to attempt it while driving, pull off the road and stop your vehicle in a safe place. To avoid temptation, power down or stow devices before heading out.●As a general rule, if you cannot devote your full attention to driving because of some other activity, it’s a distraction. Take care of it before or after your trip, not while behind the wheel.About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 62 million members nationwide and more than 350,000 members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2c98%3c8-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=528209&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2c98%3c8-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=528208&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2c98%3c8-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=528207&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2c98%3c8-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=528206&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.