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

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

Recent obituaries

A number of local and area 4-Hers were recognized during the recent Central Kansas District 4-H Club Day.

The annual event, scheduled for Feb. 20, was virtual this year, which provided a challenge and a call to adapt for those participating. According to information from the Central Kansas District, 4-H Club Day "provides youth the opportunity to learn and grow their public speaking skills by presenting demonstrations, prepared speeches, and spontaneous speaking. The talent portion included dramatic readings, instrumental and vocal solos, and dance to name a few."

Because of this year's virtual format, 4-Hers recorded their presentations and sent them in for evaluation from judges. The Central Kansas District noted that in a traditional year, judges are hired more locally due to driving time, but for the virtual contest judges were hired from around the state and also from several states away.

According to the district, all 4-H members participating received a ribbon for their performance. The top award winners qualified for the regional competition in March (also to be held virtually). Those 4-Hers receiving either a purple or top purple and alternate winners are as follows.

Kendyn Biggs, Solomon Valley Parker Page, Cardinal Isaac Perez, Willing Workers Eian Pracht, Smoky View 1st Alternate: Caleb Schlatter, Boldly Go 2nd Alternate: Ella Riese, Cardinal

Emma Littich, Smoky View Madison Repp, Friendly Valley Reygan Schrock, Cardinal Owen Tracy, Boldly Go 1st Alternate: Lillian Hulse, Pleasant Valley 2nd Alternate: Carson Fouard, Cardinal 3rd Alternate: Lane Fritz, Gypsum Valley

August Hulse, Pleasant Valley Matthew Redden, Willing Workers Weston Schrader, Solomon Valley Ella Tracy, Boldly Go 1st Alternate: Katrina Fahrenthold, Boldly Go 2nd Alternate: Kolby Phipps, Solomon Valley

Jaelyn Gates, Cardinal Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View

SENIOR VOCAL MUSIC SOLO REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

SENIOR INSTRUMENTAL SOLO REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

Emma Littich, Smoky View Madison Repp, Friendly Valley

JUNIOR INSTRUMENTAL SOLO REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

DANCE: SENIOR SOLO DANCE REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View Eian Pracht, Smoky View

Acacia Pracht, Smoky View Matthew Redden, Willing Workers 1st Alternate: August Hulse, Pleasant Valley

Willing Workers 4-H Club and Smoky View 4-H Club

Cardinal: Jaelyn Gates, Adilynn Cox, Rio Rairden, Jerzie Holmes, and Luke Walker

Pleasant Valley: Peyton Piepho, Jayci Shephard, Dylan Koehn, August Hulse, Lillian Hulse

Willing Workers: Odessa Miller, Soren Mannebach, Cadence Foth, Shelby Stolzenburg, Amaria Wangerin

Ribbon Placings: P=Purple, B=Blue, R=Red, W=White, Part=Participation

Senior Demonstration/Illustrated Talk

A number of local and area 4-Hers were recognized during the recent Central Kansas District 4-H Club Day.The annual event, scheduled for Feb. 20, was virtual this year, which provided a challenge and a call to adapt for those participating. According to information from the Central Kansas District, 4-H Club Day "provides youth the opportunity to learn and grow their public speaking skills by presenting demonstrations, prepared speeches, and spontaneous speaking. The talent portion included dramatic readings, instrumental and vocal solos, and dance to name a few."Because of this year's virtual format, 4-Hers recorded their presentations and sent them in for evaluation from judges. The Central Kansas District noted that in a traditional year, judges are hired more locally due to driving time, but for the virtual contest judges were hired from around the state and also from several states away.According to the district, all 4-H members participating received a ribbon for their performance. The top award winners qualified for the regional competition in March (also to be held virtually). Those 4-Hers receiving either a purple or top purple and alternate winners are as follows.<h2>JUNIOR DEMONSTRATION REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Kendyn Biggs, Solomon Valley Parker Page, Cardinal Isaac Perez, Willing Workers Eian Pracht, Smoky View 1st Alternate: Caleb Schlatter, Boldly Go 2nd Alternate: Ella Riese, Cardinal<h2>SENIOR DEMONSTRATION REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Emma Littich, Smoky View Madison Repp, Friendly Valley Reygan Schrock, Cardinal Owen Tracy, Boldly Go 1st Alternate: Lillian Hulse, Pleasant Valley 2nd Alternate: Carson Fouard, Cardinal 3rd Alternate: Lane Fritz, Gypsum Valley<h2>PUBLIC SPEAKING REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>August Hulse, Pleasant Valley Matthew Redden, Willing Workers Weston Schrader, Solomon Valley Ella Tracy, Boldly Go 1st Alternate: Katrina Fahrenthold, Boldly Go 2nd Alternate: Kolby Phipps, Solomon Valley<h2>PROJECT TALK REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Jaelyn Gates, Cardinal Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View<h2>SENIOR VOCAL MUSIC SOLO REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Brynna Anderson, Smoky View<h2>SENIOR INSTRUMENTAL SOLO REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Emma Littich, Smoky View Madison Repp, Friendly Valley<h2>JUNIOR INSTRUMENTAL SOLO REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Matthias Schlatter, Boldly Go<h2>DANCE: SENIOR SOLO DANCE REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Kathie Woker, Sunny Valley<h2>DRAMA: JUNIOR READING REGIONAL QUALIFERS</h2>Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View Eian Pracht, Smoky View<h2>DRAMA: SENIOR READING REGIONAL QUALIFIER</h2>Acacia Pracht, Smoky View Matthew Redden, Willing Workers 1st Alternate: August Hulse, Pleasant Valley<h2>DRAMA: SENIOR SOLO ACTING</h2>Shelby Stolzenburg, Willing Workers<h2>MODEL MEETING REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Willing Workers 4-H Club and Smoky View 4-H Club<h2>GAVEL GAMES JUNIOR REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Cardinal: Jaelyn Gates, Adilynn Cox, Rio Rairden, Jerzie Holmes, and Luke Walker<h2>GAVEL GAMES SENIOR REGIONAL QUALIFIERS</h2>Pleasant Valley: Peyton Piepho, Jayci Shephard, Dylan Koehn, August Hulse, Lillian HulseWilling Workers: Odessa Miller, Soren Mannebach, Cadence Foth, Shelby Stolzenburg, Amaria Wangerin<h2>Other 4-H Club Day Placings</h2>Ribbon Placings: P=Purple, B=Blue, R=Red, W=White, Part=ParticipationJunior Vocal SolosB Kinsley Crosson, Solomon ValleySenior Vocal SolosP Brynna Anderson, Smoky ViewJunior Instrumental SolosR Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View R Caleb Schlatter, Boldly Go P Matthias Schlatter, Boldly GoSenior Instrumental SolosB Katrina Fahrenthold, Boldly Go P Emma Littich, Smoky View R Matthew Redden, Willing Workers P Madison Repp, Friendly Valley R Kaitlyn Watkins, Gypsum ValleyTalent: DanceP Kathie Woker, Sunny ValleyDrama: Jr. ReadingP Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View B Wyatt Griffin, Smoky View B Ridge Johnson, Smoky View P Eian Pracht, Smoky ViewDrama: Sr. ReadingP August Hulse, Pleasant Valley B Lillian Hulse, Pleasant Valley B Soren Mannebach, Willing Workers P Acacia Pracht, Smoky View P Matthew Redden, Willing WorkersTalent: Solo ActingP Shelby Stolzenburg, Willing WorkersSharingPart. Maryn Gates, Cardinal Part. Siayah Hubbard, Sunny Valley Part. Kyson Johnson, Woodsdale Part. Ridge Johnson, Smoky View Part. Eddie Littich, Smoky View Part. Oscar Page, Cardinal Part. Maia Pracht, Smoky View Part. Porter Reise, CardinalJunior Project TalksB Adilynn Cox, Cardinal B Colton Crosson, Solomon Valley R Traven Dotson, Boldly Go P Jaelyn Gates, Cardinal P Katelyn Griffin, Smoky View R Wyatt Griffin, Smoky ViewR Thea Hoekstra, Willing Workers R Trite Hubbard, Sunny Valley R Adalynn Johnson, Woodsdale B Briley Pfannenstiel, Boldly Go B Matthias Schlatter, Boldly Go R Nolan Schoenfeld, Friendly Valley R Sam Tracy, Boldly GoSenior Demonstration/Illustrated TalkR Tim Ade, Boldly Go B Zoe Ade, Boldly Go P Brynna Anderson, Smoky View B Marik Anderson, Smoky View R Ariana Baltazor, Willing Workers B Brysie Cox, Sunny Valley B Christian Cox, Sunny Valley B Adelaide Easter, Sunny ValleyR Cadence Foth, Willing Workers B Kinsley Foth, Willing Workers P Carson Fouard, Cardinal P Lane Fritz, Gypsum Valley P Lillian Hulse, Pleasant Valley P Emma Littich, Smoky View R Soren Mannebach, Willing Workers R Odessa Miller, Willing Workers R Kayla Norberg, Smoky View R Jace Ohlson, Pleasant Valley B Conner Peck, Solomon Valley B&nbsp;Acacia Pracht, Smoky View P Madison Repp, Friendly Valley P Reygan Schrock, Cardinal B Shelby Stolzenburg, Willing Workers R Caroline Stone, Sunny Valley B Jake Tillberg, Cardinal P Owen Tracy, Boldly Go B Kaitlyn Watkins, Gypsum ValleyJunior Demonstration/Illustrated TalkP Kendyn Biggs, Solomon Valley R Kinsley Crosson, Solomon Valley B Jericho Curtis, Sunny Valley R Maria Escobedo-Baltazor, Willing WorkersB Bailey Fritz, Gypsum Valley R Gauge Fritz, Gypsum Valley R Brayden Johnson, Woodsdale R Emery Lambdin, Woodsdale B Xander Mannebach, Willing Workers P Parker Page, Cardinal P Isaac Perez, Willing Workers B Bradley Pfannenstiel, Boldly Go P Eian Pracht, Smoky View P Ella Riese, Cardinal B Wesley Roland, Boldly Go P Caleb Schlatter, Boldly Go P Ty Tillberg, Cardinal B Landon Wisbey, Pleasant Valley P Troy Wisbey, Pleasant ValleySpontaneous SpeakingR Lane Fritz, Gypsum Valley P August Hulse, Pleasant Valley P Emma Littich, Smoky View B Caroline Stone, Sunny ValleyPublic SpeakingB Jaci Biggs, Solomon Valley R Olivia Boucek, Woodsdale B Arianna Cox, Cardinal B Jocelynn Cox, Sunny Valley P Katrina Fahrenthold, Boldly Go P August Hulse, Pleasant Valley B Liam Nichols, Solomon Valley P Kolby Phipps, Solomon Valley B Kyle Phipps, Solomon Valley B Peyton Piepho, Pleasant Valley P Matthew Redden, Willing Workers B Ben Schlatter, Boldly Go R Erik Schlatter, Boldly Go B Josi Schrader, Solomon Valley P Weston Schrader, Solomon Valley P Ella Tracy, Boldly Go R Kathie Woker, Sunny Valley

4-Hers participate in virtual district club day

Salina Regional Health Center is modifying its COVID-19 visitor restrictions due to improving COVID-19 infection numbers in the community.

Effective Friday, inpatients may have one visitor per day instead of one designated visitor for the duration of a patient’s hospital stay. Emergency Department patients also will be allowed one visitor to accompany them for their care. No visitors had been allowed in the Emergency Department since November.

“These changes give families more flexibility and allows them to alternate visitors each day during a patient’s stay in the hospital,” said Bethanie McDowell, infection prevention director at Salina Regional Health Center. “It also allows family members and loved ones to be more directly involved in patient care in the Emergency Department.”

All other COVID-19 guidelines will remain in place:

• All who enter the facility will be screened for COVID-19 infection risk.

• Visitors will be given a Visitor Identification Bracelet, which will be replaced daily.

• All who visit will be asked to wear a mask throughout the visit including in hallways, public areas&nbsp;and the patient’s room.

• Visitors should remain in the patient’s room as much as possible.

• Patients who are COVID-19 positive, or who are being tested COVID-19, will not be allowed&nbsp; to have visitors.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614892053217.png" alt="Photo courtesy Salina Regional Health Center" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Salina Regional Health Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Regional Health Center is modifying its COVID-19 visitor restrictions due to improving COVID-19 infection numbers in the community.Effective Friday, inpatients may have one visitor per day instead of one designated visitor for the duration of a patient’s hospital stay. Emergency Department patients also will be allowed one visitor to accompany them for their care. No visitors had been allowed in the Emergency Department since November.“These changes give families more flexibility and allows them to alternate visitors each day during a patient’s stay in the hospital,” said Bethanie McDowell, infection prevention director at Salina Regional Health Center. “It also allows family members and loved ones to be more directly involved in patient care in the Emergency Department.”All other COVID-19 guidelines will remain in place:• All who enter the facility will be screened for COVID-19 infection risk.• Visitors will be given a Visitor Identification Bracelet, which will be replaced daily.• Visitors must be age 18 or older.• All who visit will be asked to wear a mask throughout the visit including in hallways, public areas&nbsp;and the patient’s room.• Visitors should remain in the patient’s room as much as possible.• Patients who are COVID-19 positive, or who are being tested COVID-19, will not be allowed&nbsp; to have visitors.

SRHC modifies its visiting guidelines

Great Plains Manufacturing and Kansas State University have signed a master agreement to begin a research and testing partnership. 

With this agreement, Great Plains Manufacturing and K-State will collaborate to conduct research, providing students with professional experience and hands-on learning opportunities. 

As a part of this relationship, Great Plains Manufacturing has provided Kansas State with agricultural equipment for use in various university research programs. 

This relationship is part of a larger effort to expand corporate-student partnerships on campus and to make students aware of Great Plains Manufacturing as a resource for future employment opportunities. 

David Disberger, Great Plains Manufacturing Executive Vice President, said, “Kansas State University is well-known for its contributions to research, and this agreement will serve as a building block for our continued cooperation. We look forward to many synergies between our organizations.”

Great Plains Manufacturing and Kansas State University have signed a master agreement to begin a research and testing partnership. With this agreement, Great Plains Manufacturing and K-State will collaborate to conduct research, providing students with professional experience and hands-on learning opportunities. As a part of this relationship, Great Plains Manufacturing has provided Kansas State with agricultural equipment for use in various university research programs. This relationship is part of a larger effort to expand corporate-student partnerships on campus and to make students aware of Great Plains Manufacturing as a resource for future employment opportunities. David Disberger, Great Plains Manufacturing Executive Vice President, said, “Kansas State University is well-known for its contributions to research, and this agreement will serve as a building block for our continued cooperation. We look forward to many synergies between our organizations.”

Great Plains Mfg. enters research-based partnership with KSU

SALEMSBORG -- Several restored vehicles were among the loss in a rural Saline County structure fire late Wednesday afternoon.

Firefighters from Rural Fire Districts 6 and 2 and deputies were dispatched to the 4200 block of West Parsons Road north of Salemsborg at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday for the report of a structure fire, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. When they arrived, they found a building on the property ablaze.

Inside the building were a 1932 Ford valued at $33,000, a restored 1946 Studebaker valued at $33,000, a restored 1953 Chevrolet pickup valued at $33,000, a 1939 Studebaker valued at $2,000, and $25,000 worth of tools, Soldan said. The building itself was valued at $60,000, he said. 

Soldan said the property owner, Ron Householter, 58, was not home at the time of the fire, which was believed to be caused by an electrical issue. 

He said that Jack Gebhart, 84, of Salina, owned some the property in the building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614874678901.jpeg" alt="Firefighters work to extinguish the blaze. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters work to extinguish the blaze. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>SALEMSBORG -- Several restored vehicles were among the loss in a rural Saline County structure fire late Wednesday afternoon.Firefighters from Rural Fire Districts 6 and 2 and deputies were dispatched to the 4200 block of West Parsons Road north of Salemsborg at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday for the report of a structure fire, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. When they arrived, they found a building on the property ablaze.Inside the building were a 1932 Ford valued at $33,000, a restored 1946 Studebaker valued at $33,000, a restored 1953 Chevrolet pickup valued at $33,000, a 1939 Studebaker valued at $2,000, and $25,000 worth of tools, Soldan said. The building itself was valued at $60,000, he said. Total loss was $186,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614874752297.jpeg" alt="What is left of some of the vehicles can be seen in the fire." />
 <figcaption>What is left of some of the vehicles can be seen in the fire.</figcaption>
 </figure>Soldan said the property owner, Ron Householter, 58, was not home at the time of the fire, which was believed to be caused by an electrical issue. He said that Jack Gebhart, 84, of Salina, owned some the property in the building.

Rural blaze destroys building, several old vehicles Wednesday

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Driven by pleas from desperate local officials, Kansas legislators on Wednesday quickly created a state low-interest loan program to help cities cover spikes in costs associated with providing heat and electricity to their residents during last month’s intense cold snap.

Lawmakers sent Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb88_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow the state to loan out $100 million of its idle funds immediately to cities that operate their own electric and natural gas utilities, to cover “extraordinary” energy costs last month. Cities would have up to 10 years to pay off the loans.

The bill was introduced Tuesday, had a hearing, cleared a House committee Wednesday morning and passed the House less than two hours later,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303113520_567345/" target="_blank">124-0.</a>&nbsp;The Senate approved it,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303155357_970568/" target="_blank">37-1,</a>&nbsp;in the afternoon, and Kelly promised to sign it immediately.

“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference. “It gives them the immediate relief they need to avoid dire financial decisions while we pursue other, long-term solutions.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/www.apnews.com/ca8d4314b7f7d7d763325b79d4963305" target="_blank">Subzero temperatures</a>&nbsp;in mid-February led to a big spike in demand for natural gas, and other problems, such as freezing equipment, made gas hard to obtain, causing prices to jump. That left dozens of cities in Kansas with big energy bills that are coming due, and advocates of the bill said some could face bankruptcy without help.

The city of Denison, with about 190 residents 40 miles north of Topeka, has been billed about $241,000 for gas in February, when its bill last year was about $4,100, City Clerk Yvonne Hamer told the House committee&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_37_testimony.html" target="_blank">in written testimony.&nbsp;</a>She said that without help, the city will “go under” after 134 years.

“Now I am fearful that I will have to close my doors if the city has to pass on the outrageous gas prices which were incurred in February,” Samantha Correll, who purchased the Finer Than A Frog Hair Bar &amp; Grill in Denison, said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_38_testimony.html" target="_blank">in a statement</a>&nbsp;to the committee.

Lawmakers were concentrating first on helping cities operating their own utilities because they’ve already received one round of bills from the cold snap and have another round coming due. Kimberly Gencur Svaty, a lobbyist for municipal utilities, said many of those cities tapped out available funds to cover the first round.

Fifty-three cities provide natural gas to their residents for heat, and 118 operate their own electric utilities — some of which also use natural gas to generate power. Svaty said within a week, gas prices spiked at as much as 200 times what cities had been paying.

She said cities operating their own utilities face “an immediate financial crisis” because Great Depression-era laws aimed at stabilizing their finances greatly limit their ability to borrow money. Without help, she and other supporters said, those cities face imposing huge, short-term increases in customers’ bills, when loans would allow them to “smooth out” the extra costs over time.

Svaty also said that if cities can’t pay their gas bills, they risk being excluded from the market, which would leave some of them unable to supply their residents.

“This is something you can do right here right now that will literally make a difference in the lives of people in the next week to 10 days,” Svaty said.

In Argonia, a town of around 500 people about 50 miles southwest of Wichita, the city expects a bill of more than $500,000 from February when its typical monthly cost is $9,000, according to City Clerk Tara Pierce.

“This extreme cost could break us,” she said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_32_testimony.html" target="_blank">in testimony</a>&nbsp;to the House committee.

In the House, Democratic Rep. Henry Helgerson, of Wichita, worried that the state would be on the hook if a city defaulted on a loan but voted for the bill.

The only no vote in either chamber came from freshman Republican Sen. Alicia Straub, of Ellinwood. She said allowing cities to take out low-interest loans is “acknowledging that somehow the consumer was at fault for this.”

“I don’t feel that the consumer is at fault, and I don’t feel that the consumer should have to pay this in any way,” she said.

But Chris Komarek, the city administrator in Straub’s central Kansas hometown of 2,100 residents, had urged lawmakers to pass the bill, saying in written testimony that it was “huge to the survival of communities across the state of Kansas.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614869274133.png" alt="“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference Wednesday.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference Wednesday.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Driven by pleas from desperate local officials, Kansas legislators on Wednesday quickly created a state low-interest loan program to help cities cover spikes in costs associated with providing heat and electricity to their residents during last month’s intense cold snap.Lawmakers sent Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb88_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow the state to loan out $100 million of its idle funds immediately to cities that operate their own electric and natural gas utilities, to cover “extraordinary” energy costs last month. Cities would have up to 10 years to pay off the loans.The bill was introduced Tuesday, had a hearing, cleared a House committee Wednesday morning and passed the House less than two hours later,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303113520_567345/" target="_blank">124-0.</a>&nbsp;The Senate approved it,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303155357_970568/" target="_blank">37-1,</a>&nbsp;in the afternoon, and Kelly promised to sign it immediately.“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference. “It gives them the immediate relief they need to avoid dire financial decisions while we pursue other, long-term solutions.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613863213415.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apnews.com/article/www.apnews.com/ca8d4314b7f7d7d763325b79d4963305" target="_blank">Subzero temperatures</a>&nbsp;in mid-February led to a big spike in demand for natural gas, and other problems, such as freezing equipment, made gas hard to obtain, causing prices to jump. That left dozens of cities in Kansas with big energy bills that are coming due, and advocates of the bill said some could face bankruptcy without help.The city of Denison, with about 190 residents 40 miles north of Topeka, has been billed about $241,000 for gas in February, when its bill last year was about $4,100, City Clerk Yvonne Hamer told the House committee&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_37_testimony.html" target="_blank">in written testimony.&nbsp;</a>She said that without help, the city will “go under” after 134 years.“Now I am fearful that I will have to close my doors if the city has to pass on the outrageous gas prices which were incurred in February,” Samantha Correll, who purchased the Finer Than A Frog Hair Bar &amp; Grill in Denison, said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_38_testimony.html" target="_blank">in a statement</a>&nbsp;to the committee.Lawmakers were concentrating first on helping cities operating their own utilities because they’ve already received one round of bills from the cold snap and have another round coming due. Kimberly Gencur Svaty, a lobbyist for municipal utilities, said many of those cities tapped out available funds to cover the first round.Fifty-three cities provide natural gas to their residents for heat, and 118 operate their own electric utilities — some of which also use natural gas to generate power. Svaty said within a week, gas prices spiked at as much as 200 times what cities had been paying.She said cities operating their own utilities face “an immediate financial crisis” because Great Depression-era laws aimed at stabilizing their finances greatly limit their ability to borrow money. Without help, she and other supporters said, those cities face imposing huge, short-term increases in customers’ bills, when loans would allow them to “smooth out” the extra costs over time.Svaty also said that if cities can’t pay their gas bills, they risk being excluded from the market, which would leave some of them unable to supply their residents.“This is something you can do right here right now that will literally make a difference in the lives of people in the next week to 10 days,” Svaty said.In Argonia, a town of around 500 people about 50 miles southwest of Wichita, the city expects a bill of more than $500,000 from February when its typical monthly cost is $9,000, according to City Clerk Tara Pierce.“This extreme cost could break us,” she said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_32_testimony.html" target="_blank">in testimony</a>&nbsp;to the House committee.In the House, Democratic Rep. Henry Helgerson, of Wichita, worried that the state would be on the hook if a city defaulted on a loan but voted for the bill.The only no vote in either chamber came from freshman Republican Sen. Alicia Straub, of Ellinwood. She said allowing cities to take out low-interest loans is “acknowledging that somehow the consumer was at fault for this.”“I don’t feel that the consumer is at fault, and I don’t feel that the consumer should have to pay this in any way,” she said.But Chris Komarek, the city administrator in Straub’s central Kansas hometown of 2,100 residents, had urged lawmakers to pass the bill, saying in written testimony that it was “huge to the survival of communities across the state of Kansas.”____

Kansas to loan up to $100M to cities with huge energy costs

A Salina man was arrested after an alleged incident Wednesday evening with his roommate.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that officers were dispatched to the 600 block of South Second Street at approximately 8 p.m. for the report of a disturbance.

According to Forrester, William McNutt, 52, of Salina, reported that his roommate, David Dameron, 65, of Salina, had battered him and was chasing him with a knife. Upon arrival, officers found Dameron in the front yard of the residence holding a board with a screw sticking out of it covered in blood.    Dameron was taken into custody. 

McNutt had blood on his shirt and chin, and reported that it was from Dameron hitting him in the face. Dameron then verbally threatened McNutt and had a knife, Forrester noted. 

Dameron was in possession of personal use marijuana when he was arrested, Forrester added. 

Dameron was arrested on the following requested charges, according to Forrester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614863981750.jpeg" alt="David Dameron. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>David Dameron. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A Salina man was arrested after an alleged incident Wednesday evening with his roommate.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that officers were dispatched to the 600 block of South Second Street at approximately 8 p.m. for the report of a disturbance.According to Forrester, William McNutt, 52, of Salina, reported that his roommate, David Dameron, 65, of Salina, had battered him and was chasing him with a knife. Upon arrival, officers found Dameron in the front yard of the residence holding a board with a screw sticking out of it covered in blood. Dameron was taken into custody. McNutt had blood on his shirt and chin, and reported that it was from Dameron hitting him in the face. Dameron then verbally threatened McNutt and had a knife, Forrester noted. Dameron was in possession of personal use marijuana when he was arrested, Forrester added. Dameron was arrested on the following requested charges, according to Forrester.Aggravated assaultCriminal threatDomestic batteryPossession of marijuanaPossession of drug paraphernalia

Salina man arrested after alleged altercation with roommate

WICHITA – AAA Kansas announced today that 43 law enforcement agencies – comprising 32 police departments and 11 sheriff’s offices – throughout the state are being honored with AAA Kansas Community Traffic Safety Awards for their 2020 work to keep roadways in their cities and counties safe through a variety of initiatives and programs, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The awards have been presented annually since 2011 by AAA Kansas to community law enforcement agencies for their efforts to successfully and cost-effectively foster and improve local traffic safety. The agencies are scored and recognized for their efforts in multiple categories, including education, emergency medical response, enforcement and traffic engineering collaborations and solutions.

“Our police departments and sheriff’s offices in Kansas do an excellent job of keeping motorists, cyclists and pedestrians safe in their communities,” said Shawn Steward, Public and Government Affairs Manager for AAA Kansas. “We salute these 43 law enforcement partners for their commitment, hard work and, in many cases, creative community engagement, in delivering effective and successful traffic safety programs. Our roadways are safer because of them.”

The winning law enforcement agencies will be recognized by AAA Kansas with award plaques being presented to the police chiefs and sheriffs in their communities in the coming weeks and months. The honored agencies and their award levels are as follows:

Bonner Springs Police Department Platinum

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office Platinum

Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office Gold

Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office Platinum

Six Kansas law enforcement agencies have earned a AAA Kansas Community Traffic Safety Award in each of the 10 years the awards have been given: Andover Police Department, Arkansas City Police Department, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Olathe Police Department, Pittsburg Police Department and Shawnee Police Department.

About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 61&nbsp;million members nationwide and nearly 350,000 members in Kansas. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.&nbsp;AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, non-profit corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, 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%3d843489-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=378375&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d843489-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=378374&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WICHITA – AAA Kansas announced today that 43 law enforcement agencies – comprising 32 police departments and 11 sheriff’s offices – throughout the state are being honored with AAA Kansas Community Traffic Safety Awards for their 2020 work to keep roadways in their cities and counties safe through a variety of initiatives and programs, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.The awards have been presented annually since 2011 by AAA Kansas to community law enforcement agencies for their efforts to successfully and cost-effectively foster and improve local traffic safety. The agencies are scored and recognized for their efforts in multiple categories, including education, emergency medical response, enforcement and traffic engineering collaborations and solutions.“Our police departments and sheriff’s offices in Kansas do an excellent job of keeping motorists, cyclists and pedestrians safe in their communities,” said Shawn Steward, Public and Government Affairs Manager for AAA Kansas. “We salute these 43 law enforcement partners for their commitment, hard work and, in many cases, creative community engagement, in delivering effective and successful traffic safety programs. Our roadways are safer because of them.”The winning law enforcement agencies will be recognized by AAA Kansas with award plaques being presented to the police chiefs and sheriffs in their communities in the coming weeks and months. The honored agencies and their award levels are as follows:Agency/2020 Award LevelAndover Police Department PlatinumArkansas City Police Department PlatinumBarton County Sheriff's Office SilverBasehor Police Department PlatinumBonner Springs Police Department PlatinumBrown County Sheriff's Office PlatinumCaney Police Department SilverCherokee County Sheriff's Office PlatinumCloud County Sheriff's Office PlatinumCoffeyville Police Department GoldConcordia Police Department GoldDodge City Police Department PlatinumEl Dorado Police Department PlatinumEmporia Police Department GoldFort Scott Police Department PlatinumGardner Police Department SilverHays Police Department SilverHiawatha Police Department GoldHorton Police Department GoldIndependence Police Department GoldJohnson County Sheriff's Office PlatinumLeavenworth County Sheriff’s Office GoldLenexa Police Department PlatinumLinn County Sheriff's Office GoldLyon County Sheriff's Office PlatinumMcPherson County Sheriff’s Office GoldMcPherson Police Department SilverMission Police Department PlatinumOlathe Police Department PlatinumOttawa Police Department GoldOverland Park Police Department PlatinumParsons Police Department PlatinumPittsburg Police Department PlatinumRoeland Park Police Department PlatinumSalina Police Department PlatinumSaline County Sheriff’s Office GoldSeneca Police Department PlatinumShawnee Police Department PlatinumSpring Hill Police Department PlatinumTonganoxie Police Department PlatinumWellsville Police Department SilverWestwood Police Department PlatinumWyandotte County Sheriff's Office PlatinumSix Kansas law enforcement agencies have earned a AAA Kansas Community Traffic Safety Award in each of the 10 years the awards have been given: Andover Police Department, Arkansas City Police Department, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Olathe Police Department, Pittsburg Police Department and Shawnee Police Department.About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 61&nbsp;million members nationwide and nearly 350,000 members in Kansas. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.&nbsp;AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, non-profit corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, 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%3d843489-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=378375&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d843489-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=378374&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local, area law enforcement among AAA honorees

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

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

Building a business can leave you feeling lonely. Week after week, through all the ups and downs, you start to doubt yourself. You’re tempted to give up. When you’re frustrated, maybe you sign up for a webinar, or pick the most recent bestselling book on productivity, or buy a new tool that will help you improve your marketing funnel.

But most of the time, there’s a problem beneath your problem. If you’re being honest, you simply don’t believe you have what it takes.&nbsp;You need confidence.&nbsp;As business owners and creatives and makers, we need confidence more than we need the latest best practice, or new branding, or better data. Because confidence gives us the drive to keep getting out of bed to go at it again. Confidence gives us courage to take risks. Confidence gives us endurance for the long haul.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So, where do we find confidence? Let me answer that question with a story from an article I read a couple years ago. Hyejun Kim, an MIT PhD candidate, did a massive research project studying over 400,000 knitters (yes—as in sweaters, scarves, and blankets). She wanted to find out who in this group had the courage to turn their hobby into a business. What set the entrepreneurs apart?

Here’s what she found: Women who joined an in-person social crafting group were 25% more likely to start their own businesses.<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2018/11/14/how-an-economist-found-an-ideal-dataset-inside-facebook-knitting/" target="_blank">1</a>&nbsp;The secret to their confidence—and entrepreneurial success, in general—lies in&nbsp;community.

Community gives us tons of tactical knowledge for growing our businesses. More than that, community provides support. We get encouragement to keep going when things get tough. We get validation that our product or service&nbsp;is&nbsp;important. We get creative ideas, a fresh perspective and wisdom from people who are striving after the same goals we are. Community gives us the opportunity to look other women in the eye, and hear them share the same doubts and fears and questions we have. There’s so much power in realizing,&nbsp;Hey, I’m not the only one.

No matter where you are in your journey as a business owner, make community your top priority today. Connect with entrepreneurs both inside and outside your industry. You’ll benefit from having a wide variety of perspectives and experiences. Find groups online, on social networks, or through in-person events.

And if you can’t find a community that already exists in your area of interest, start one. You’re an entrepreneur, after all!

Christy Wright&nbsp;is a No. 1 national best-selling author,&nbsp;personal development expert, and host of The Christy Wright Show.&nbsp;She’s been featured on Today Show and Fox News, and in Entrepreneur and Woman’s Day Magazines.&nbsp;Since 2009, Christy has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches on&nbsp;personal development, business, and faith. Follow Christy&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/ChristyBWright" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/christybwright/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialChristyWright/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/christywright" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.christywright.com/" target="_blank">christywright.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602376792935.jpeg" alt="Christy Wright" />
 <figcaption>Christy Wright</figcaption>
 </figure>By CHRISTY WRIGHTBuilding a business can leave you feeling lonely. Week after week, through all the ups and downs, you start to doubt yourself. You’re tempted to give up. When you’re frustrated, maybe you sign up for a webinar, or pick the most recent bestselling book on productivity, or buy a new tool that will help you improve your marketing funnel.But most of the time, there’s a problem beneath your problem. If you’re being honest, you simply don’t believe you have what it takes.&nbsp;You need confidence.&nbsp;As business owners and creatives and makers, we need confidence more than we need the latest best practice, or new branding, or better data. Because confidence gives us the drive to keep getting out of bed to go at it again. Confidence gives us courage to take risks. Confidence gives us endurance for the long haul.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, where do we find confidence? Let me answer that question with a story from an article I read a couple years ago. Hyejun Kim, an MIT PhD candidate, did a massive research project studying over 400,000 knitters (yes—as in sweaters, scarves, and blankets). She wanted to find out who in this group had the courage to turn their hobby into a business. What set the entrepreneurs apart?Here’s what she found: Women who joined an in-person social crafting group were 25% more likely to start their own businesses.<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2018/11/14/how-an-economist-found-an-ideal-dataset-inside-facebook-knitting/" target="_blank">1</a>&nbsp;The secret to their confidence—and entrepreneurial success, in general—lies in&nbsp;community.Community gives us tons of tactical knowledge for growing our businesses. More than that, community provides support. We get encouragement to keep going when things get tough. We get validation that our product or service&nbsp;is&nbsp;important. We get creative ideas, a fresh perspective and wisdom from people who are striving after the same goals we are. Community gives us the opportunity to look other women in the eye, and hear them share the same doubts and fears and questions we have. There’s so much power in realizing,&nbsp;Hey, I’m not the only one.No matter where you are in your journey as a business owner, make community your top priority today. Connect with entrepreneurs both inside and outside your industry. You’ll benefit from having a wide variety of perspectives and experiences. Find groups online, on social networks, or through in-person events.And if you can’t find a community that already exists in your area of interest, start one. You’re an entrepreneur, after all!Christy Wright&nbsp;is a No. 1 national best-selling author,&nbsp;personal development expert, and host of The Christy Wright Show.&nbsp;She’s been featured on Today Show and Fox News, and in Entrepreneur and Woman’s Day Magazines.&nbsp;Since 2009, Christy has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches on&nbsp;personal development, business, and faith. Follow Christy&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/ChristyBWright" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/christybwright/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialChristyWright/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/christywright" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.christywright.com/" target="_blank">christywright.com</a>.

WRIGHT: Female entrepreneurs -- Here’s the best way to build confidence

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

United States Capitol Police say they have intelligence showing there is a “possible plot” by a militia group to breach the U.S. Capitol on Thursday.

According to a report by the Associate Press, the new threat appears to be connected to a far-right conspiracy theory, mainly promoted by supporters of QAnon, that former President Donald Trump will rise again to power on Thursday.

Up until 1933, when the 20th Amendment to the Constitution moved the end date of a presidential term, and, thus, the inauguration of the incoming president, to Jan. 20, March 4 was the date of presidential inaugurations.

The latest threat comes as FBI Director Chris Wray on Tuesday told the Senate Judiciary Committee that the violent Jan. 6 breach of the Capitol was "domestic terrorism." After a nearby rally earlier on Jan. 6, thousands of supporters of then-President Donald Trump descended on the Capitol, where Congress was meeting to certify Democrat Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 presidential election. More than 800 people are believed to have made it inside the building during the siege, the Associate Press reported. Five people died as a result of the melee, including a Capitol police officer who was struck in the head with a fire extinguisher.

Wray also shot down claims that members of antifa and anarchists posing as Trump supporters were really the ones attacking the Capitol.

“We have not, to date, seen any evidence of anarchist violent extremists or people subscribing to antifa in connection with the 6th,” Wray testified.

During his testimony Tuesday, Wray also warned of a rapidly growing threat of homegrown violent extremism that law enforcement is scrambling to confront, the Associated Press reported.

Hatred for people who believe differently and belief in conspiracy theories have both exploded in recent years, with fear and anxiety at their root, according to Dr. Tor Wynn, associate professor of sociology and criminology at Friends University. 

Several sources of fear and anxiety stand out, Wynn noted.

"First, 9/11 fundamentally changed this country. It made us question our safety from the violence of the world and accelerated the decline of trust we have for other people in our community," he explained. "For example, the Uniform Crime Report shows that crime in the United States steadily and rapidly declined up until the past two years, but surveys (Gallup, etc.) over the last 20 years show that Americans feel that crime is steadily getting worse. Not coincidentally, that divergence between reality and public attitudes started in 2001."

Wynn also noted that the Great Recession of 2007-2010 "brought into stark relief the economic fear that grips the vast majority of the population. Income and wealth inequality have been rising for 50 years and with greater job instability people are recognizing that the system is stacked against them."

According to Wynn, a third source is what he calls "the generational effect."

"Every 75-85 years the U.S. reaches a crisis point and cries out for national revival. The three greatest presidents in the U.S. history were those who led the nation out of these crises. Roosevelt in the 1930s and 40s, Lincoln in the 1860s, and Washington in the 1780s. And that rough beast is slouching toward Bethlehem once again. Polls show that Americans have become less trusting of others for the past few decades and instead worship at the altar of individualism," he explained.

An additional factor, according to Dr. Michael A. Smith, professor of political science and chair of social sciences at Emporia State University, is the rise of social issues over economic ones.

"It is much harder to compromise on issues perceived as moral imperatives than it is to compromise over funding or taxes. Both sides believe they are fighting for moral imperatives and that makes compromise nearly impossible.  The discrediting of the 'mainstream' news media by many on the right also means that we are no longer working from a shared set of facts," Smith explained.

The whole situation is complicated, Smith noted.

"I recommend the book, Super Mad About Everything All the Time, by my friend Alison Dagnes. Basically, she argues that we have become separated because we can now self-select our sources of news. Humans already have a strong bias toward self-selecting stories or interpretations of stories that fit our pre-existing biases rather than challenging them, and the existence of separate news 'bubbles' only makes this worse," he explained.

Wynn maintains that 21st century media, including 24-hour television and internet news, as well as social media, fuel the fear.

"Ted Turner turned out to be one of the most heinous architects of our current dysfunctions. CNN seemed like a good idea, a place Americans could go to catch up on the news of the day anytime from any television. The problem is that there isn’t enough news (about and of interest to Americans) to fill up 24 hours. As such they decided to bring on talking heads to offer opinion pieces on the news. The more outrageous things these people would say the higher the ratings their shows received, the more money in the pockets of everyone," Wynn explained.

Those issues only intensified as the internet overtook television and became people's primary source of information and cash-from-clicks began, he added.  

"The way to get clicks was by using outrage to monetize users fear and hate. Content providers understood quickly that out-of-context clips, creative editing, and making things up whole cloth, could readily turn innocuous events into outrageous acts that would catch and hold interest," Wynn noted.

The bubbles came into play again as "programmers developed algorithms ensuring that dubious sources of anger and misanthropy had their platforms supersized while those who were more evenhanded and honest were pushed aside. These same algorithms promoted information sources -- YouTube videos, social media friends, etc. -- based on those you had clicked previously, creating distinctive ‘bubbles’ of information that further pit groups and internet communities against each other," Wynn explained.

According to Wynn, "The research shows that even though social media purports to be all about building communities, in reality they build anger, antagonism, and mistrust among users. One of the key findings from my research is that heavy social media use significantly increases people’s belief in every type of conspiracy theory."

Wynn noted that "since the advent of the internet, the USA has become increasingly energized by fear and hate and increasingly susceptible to conspiratorial thinking." Political conservatism, however, also has played a role.

"My research showed that political conservatism was the second most important factor — after social media use — in terms of increasing belief in conspiracies, particularly anti-government conspiracies," he added. 

One of the more heard of conspiracy espousing groups is QAnon. QAnon adherents had a major presence in the Jan. 6 breach of the Capitol. But what is QAnon? Smith explained recently in a blog post on the Midwest Political Science Association MPSA website.* The following paragraph is from that blog post.

"QAnon is short for Q Anonymous.&nbsp; Its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/53498434">basic tenent</a>&nbsp;is that leading members of the Democratic Party operate a child trafficking ring in which abducted children are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/how-qanon-became-obsessed-with-adrenochrome-an-imaginary-drug-hollywood-is-harvesting-from-kids">bled in order to obtain a substance called&nbsp;adrenochrome</a>, which is naturally synthesized from adrenaline by the human body.&nbsp; Members of the cabal supposedly drink this chemical in order to get high and seek eternal life.&nbsp; QAnon adherents also believe that these leading Democrats worship Satan.&nbsp; One target particularly hated by the followers is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-49584157">billionaire currency trader George Soros</a>, who gives a great deal of money to Democratic candidates and nonprofits. &nbsp;Soros is also Jewish, and for centuries Judaism has been a popular target for conspiracy theories worldwide, particularly when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.britannica.com/story/where-do-anti-semitic-conspiracy-theories-about-the-rothschild-family-come-from">connected to wealth and banking</a>. &nbsp;Others named include Bill and Hillary Clinton, Bill Gates, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Sandra Bullock and Ellen DeGeneres, and of course the late pedophile and investor Jeffrey Epstein, who had friendly relationships with both&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vox.com/2019/7/9/20686347/jeffrey-epstein-trump-bill-clinton">former President Clinton and former President Trump</a>. &nbsp;QAnon followers focus only on his relationship with Clinton."

"The insurrectionists were true believers, flailing around to make sense of an increasingly uncertain world. They landed on conspiracies that demonized liberals, Democrats, and RINOS — including the vice president — as traitors, pedophiles, and cannibals who served an international cabal bent on the destruction of everything Americans hold dear," Wynn noted. "The woman shot by the Capitol police officer is a good example of this. Through social media she tried out several different philosophies to make sense of the world. She finally settled on one that, despite being complete nonsense, gave her a sense of importance, a feeling of control over the tide of history."

Both Smith and Wynn noted that many hard-core Trump supporters view him more as one would a religious leader rather than a politician.

In discussing those who stormed the Capitol, Wynn explained, "These true believers found their messiah in the 45th president, a man who gave voice to their burgeoning beliefs about the world. As it became increasingly obvious that November’s election was lost and Trump was about to be put out to pasture, they became increasingly agitated. The election clearly demonstrated that their worldview was accepted by only a small minority of Americans and was continually being refuted by real-world events. Research clearly demonstrates that when confronted with the evidence that their belief system is false, conspiracy believers double down and become increasingly upset and unhinged from reality."

"QAnon views Trump as a savior. This is literal, not a metaphor. Followers have produced comic book-like depictions of Trump with the stigmata in his hands. (Stigmata are the wounds Jesus sustained when being nailed to the cross). They believe that at some point, called the storm, Trump will have members of the cabal arrested and either incarcerate or execute them," Smith wrote in the MPSA blog post*.

A part of the conspiracy was that on Jan. 6, Trump would step in at the last minute, and remain president for another four years. Then he was supposed to, at the last moment, stop Biden's inauguration on Jan. 20, and stay in the White House for four more years. When that didn't happen, hardcore believers bought into another change in the timeline for Trump resuming the presidency. That change was to Thursday (March 4).

"QAnon and other conspiracy theories capture the hardest core of Trump supporters, people who have a deep emotional commitment to the former President and his promise to 'Make America Great Again,'" Smith explained. "He made sense out of their world and promised to make it better. They are not emotionally ready to let go."

*"<a href="https://www.mpsanet.org/qanon-the-conspiracy-theory-behind-the-capitol-seizure/">QAnon: The Conspiracy Theory Behind the Capitol Seizure</a>" by Dr. Michael A. Smith, Midwest Political Science Association, Jan. 19, 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614827232718.jpeg" alt="The U.S. Capitol. Photo by&nbsp;Andrew Bossi, CC BY-SA 3.0,&nbsp;via Wikimedia Commons" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. Capitol. Photo by&nbsp;Andrew Bossi, CC BY-SA 3.0,&nbsp;via Wikimedia Commons</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostUnited States Capitol Police say they have intelligence showing there is a “possible plot” by a militia group to breach the U.S. Capitol on Thursday.According to a report by the Associate Press, the new threat appears to be connected to a far-right conspiracy theory, mainly promoted by supporters of QAnon, that former President Donald Trump will rise again to power on Thursday.Up until 1933, when the 20th Amendment to the Constitution moved the end date of a presidential term, and, thus, the inauguration of the incoming president, to Jan. 20, March 4 was the date of presidential inaugurations.The latest threat comes as FBI Director Chris Wray on Tuesday told the Senate Judiciary Committee that the violent Jan. 6 breach of the Capitol was "domestic terrorism." After a nearby rally earlier on Jan. 6, thousands of supporters of then-President Donald Trump descended on the Capitol, where Congress was meeting to certify Democrat Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 presidential election. More than 800 people are believed to have made it inside the building during the siege, the Associate Press reported. Five people died as a result of the melee, including a Capitol police officer who was struck in the head with a fire extinguisher.Wray also shot down claims that members of antifa and anarchists posing as Trump supporters were really the ones attacking the Capitol.“We have not, to date, seen any evidence of anarchist violent extremists or people subscribing to antifa in connection with the 6th,” Wray testified.During his testimony Tuesday, Wray also warned of a rapidly growing threat of homegrown violent extremism that law enforcement is scrambling to confront, the Associated Press reported.How we got to this pointHatred for people who believe differently and belief in conspiracy theories have both exploded in recent years, with fear and anxiety at their root, according to Dr. Tor Wynn, associate professor of sociology and criminology at Friends University. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614823787892.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tor Wynn. Photo courtesy Friends University" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tor Wynn. Photo courtesy Friends University</figcaption>
 </figure>Several sources of fear and anxiety stand out, Wynn noted."First, 9/11 fundamentally changed this country. It made us question our safety from the violence of the world and accelerated the decline of trust we have for other people in our community," he explained. "For example, the Uniform Crime Report shows that crime in the United States steadily and rapidly declined up until the past two years, but surveys (Gallup, etc.) over the last 20 years show that Americans feel that crime is steadily getting worse. Not coincidentally, that divergence between reality and public attitudes started in 2001."Wynn also noted that the Great Recession of 2007-2010 "brought into stark relief the economic fear that grips the vast majority of the population. Income and wealth inequality have been rising for 50 years and with greater job instability people are recognizing that the system is stacked against them."According to Wynn, a third source is what he calls "the generational effect.""Every 75-85 years the U.S. reaches a crisis point and cries out for national revival. The three greatest presidents in the U.S. history were those who led the nation out of these crises. Roosevelt in the 1930s and 40s, Lincoln in the 1860s, and Washington in the 1780s. And that rough beast is slouching toward Bethlehem once again. Polls show that Americans have become less trusting of others for the past few decades and instead worship at the altar of individualism," he explained.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614823922980.jpeg" alt="Dr. Michael A. Smith. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Michael A. Smith. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>An additional factor, according to Dr. Michael A. Smith, professor of political science and chair of social sciences at Emporia State University, is the rise of social issues over economic ones."It is much harder to compromise on issues perceived as moral imperatives than it is to compromise over funding or taxes. Both sides believe they are fighting for moral imperatives and that makes compromise nearly impossible. The discrediting of the 'mainstream' news media by many on the right also means that we are no longer working from a shared set of facts," Smith explained.The whole situation is complicated, Smith noted."I recommend the book, Super Mad About Everything All the Time, by my friend Alison Dagnes. Basically, she argues that we have become separated because we can now self-select our sources of news. Humans already have a strong bias toward self-selecting stories or interpretations of stories that fit our pre-existing biases rather than challenging them, and the existence of separate news 'bubbles' only makes this worse," he explained.Wynn maintains that 21st century media, including 24-hour television and internet news, as well as social media, fuel the fear."Ted Turner turned out to be one of the most heinous architects of our current dysfunctions. CNN seemed like a good idea, a place Americans could go to catch up on the news of the day anytime from any television. The problem is that there isn’t enough news (about and of interest to Americans) to fill up 24 hours. As such they decided to bring on talking heads to offer opinion pieces on the news. The more outrageous things these people would say the higher the ratings their shows received, the more money in the pockets of everyone," Wynn explained.Those issues only intensified as the internet overtook television and became people's primary source of information and cash-from-clicks began, he added. "The way to get clicks was by using outrage to monetize users fear and hate. Content providers understood quickly that out-of-context clips, creative editing, and making things up whole cloth, could readily turn innocuous events into outrageous acts that would catch and hold interest," Wynn noted.The bubbles came into play again as "programmers developed algorithms ensuring that dubious sources of anger and misanthropy had their platforms supersized while those who were more evenhanded and honest were pushed aside. These same algorithms promoted information sources -- YouTube videos, social media friends, etc. -- based on those you had clicked previously, creating distinctive ‘bubbles’ of information that further pit groups and internet communities against each other," Wynn explained.According to Wynn, "The research shows that even though social media purports to be all about building communities, in reality they build anger, antagonism, and mistrust among users. One of the key findings from my research is that heavy social media use significantly increases people’s belief in every type of conspiracy theory."Wynn noted that "since the advent of the internet, the USA has become increasingly energized by fear and hate and increasingly susceptible to conspiratorial thinking." Political conservatism, however, also has played a role."My research showed that political conservatism was the second most important factor — after social media use — in terms of increasing belief in conspiracies, particularly anti-government conspiracies," he added. The QAnon phenomena and Jan. 6One of the more heard of conspiracy espousing groups is QAnon. QAnon adherents had a major presence in the Jan. 6 breach of the Capitol. But what is QAnon? Smith explained recently in a blog post on the Midwest Political Science Association MPSA website.* The following paragraph is from that blog post."QAnon is short for Q Anonymous.&nbsp; Its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/53498434">basic tenent</a>&nbsp;is that leading members of the Democratic Party operate a child trafficking ring in which abducted children are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/how-qanon-became-obsessed-with-adrenochrome-an-imaginary-drug-hollywood-is-harvesting-from-kids">bled in order to obtain a substance called&nbsp;adrenochrome</a>, which is naturally synthesized from adrenaline by the human body.&nbsp; Members of the cabal supposedly drink this chemical in order to get high and seek eternal life.&nbsp; QAnon adherents also believe that these leading Democrats worship Satan.&nbsp; One target particularly hated by the followers is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-49584157">billionaire currency trader George Soros</a>, who gives a great deal of money to Democratic candidates and nonprofits. &nbsp;Soros is also Jewish, and for centuries Judaism has been a popular target for conspiracy theories worldwide, particularly when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.britannica.com/story/where-do-anti-semitic-conspiracy-theories-about-the-rothschild-family-come-from">connected to wealth and banking</a>. &nbsp;Others named include Bill and Hillary Clinton, Bill Gates, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Sandra Bullock and Ellen DeGeneres, and of course the late pedophile and investor Jeffrey Epstein, who had friendly relationships with both&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vox.com/2019/7/9/20686347/jeffrey-epstein-trump-bill-clinton">former President Clinton and former President Trump</a>. &nbsp;QAnon followers focus only on his relationship with Clinton.""The insurrectionists were true believers, flailing around to make sense of an increasingly uncertain world. They landed on conspiracies that demonized liberals, Democrats, and RINOS — including the vice president — as traitors, pedophiles, and cannibals who served an international cabal bent on the destruction of everything Americans hold dear," Wynn noted. "The woman shot by the Capitol police officer is a good example of this. Through social media she tried out several different philosophies to make sense of the world. She finally settled on one that, despite being complete nonsense, gave her a sense of importance, a feeling of control over the tide of history."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614825984031.jpeg" alt="Rallygoers lined up to enter the Target Center arena in Minneapolis, Minn., on Oct. 10, 2019, for a Donald J. Trump for President. Photo by Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0">CC BY 2.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons" />
 <figcaption>Rallygoers lined up to enter the Target Center arena in Minneapolis, Minn., on Oct. 10, 2019, for a Donald J. Trump for President. Photo by Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0">CC BY 2.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons</figcaption>
 </figure>Both Smith and Wynn noted that many hard-core Trump supporters view him more as one would a religious leader rather than a politician.In discussing those who stormed the Capitol, Wynn explained, "These true believers found their messiah in the 45th president, a man who gave voice to their burgeoning beliefs about the world. As it became increasingly obvious that November’s election was lost and Trump was about to be put out to pasture, they became increasingly agitated. The election clearly demonstrated that their worldview was accepted by only a small minority of Americans and was continually being refuted by real-world events. Research clearly demonstrates that when confronted with the evidence that their belief system is false, conspiracy believers double down and become increasingly upset and unhinged from reality.""QAnon views Trump as a savior. This is literal, not a metaphor. Followers have produced comic book-like depictions of Trump with the stigmata in his hands. (Stigmata are the wounds Jesus sustained when being nailed to the cross). They believe that at some point, called the storm, Trump will have members of the cabal arrested and either incarcerate or execute them," Smith wrote in the MPSA blog post*.A part of the conspiracy was that on Jan. 6, Trump would step in at the last minute, and remain president for another four years. Then he was supposed to, at the last moment, stop Biden's inauguration on Jan. 20, and stay in the White House for four more years. When that didn't happen, hardcore believers bought into another change in the timeline for Trump resuming the presidency. That change was to Thursday (March 4)."QAnon and other conspiracy theories capture the hardest core of Trump supporters, people who have a deep emotional commitment to the former President and his promise to 'Make America Great Again,'" Smith explained. "He made sense out of their world and promised to make it better. They are not emotionally ready to let go."*"<a href="https://www.mpsanet.org/qanon-the-conspiracy-theory-behind-the-capitol-seizure/">QAnon: The Conspiracy Theory Behind the Capitol Seizure</a>" by Dr. Michael A. Smith, Midwest Political Science Association, Jan. 19, 2021.

Another Capitol threat in the time of hate and conspiracy theories

Today is Thursday, March 4, the 63rd day of 2021. There are 302 days left in the year. 

On March 4, 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt took office as America's 32nd president. 

In 1789, the Constitution of the United States went into effect as the first Federal Congress met in New York. (The lawmakers then adjourned for lack of a quorum.) 

In 1797, John Adams was inaugurated the second president of the United States.

In 1863, the Idaho Territory was created.

In 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated for a second term of office; with the end of the Civil War in sight, Lincoln declared: "With malice toward none, with charity for all." 

In 1964, Teamsters president James Hoffa and three co-defendants were found guilty by a federal court in Chattanooga, Tennessee, of jury tampering. 

In 1974, the first issue of People magazine, then called People Weekly, was published by Time-Life Inc.; on the cover was actor Mia Farrow. 

In 1981, a jury in Salt Lake City convicted Joseph Paul Franklin, an avowed racist and serial killer, of violating the civil rights of two Black men, Ted Fields and David Martin, who'd been shot to death. (Franklin received two life sentences for this crime; he was executed in 2013 for the 1977 murder of a Jewish man, Gerald Gordon.)

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan addressed the nation on the Iran-Contra affair, acknowledging that his overtures to Iran had "deteriorated" into an arms-for-hostages deal. 

In 1994, in New York, four extremists were convicted of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing that killed six people and injured more than a thousand. Actor-comedian John Candy died in Durango, Mexico, at age 43. 

In 1998, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that sexual harassment at work can be illegal even when the offender and victim are of the same gender. 

In 2015, the Justice Department cleared Darren Wilson, a white former Ferguson, Missouri, police officer, in the fatal shooting of Michael Brown, a Black 18-year-old, but also issued a scathing report calling for sweeping changes in city law enforcement practices. 

In 2018, former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter were found unconscious on a bench in the southwestern English city of Salisbury; both survived what British authorities said was a murder attempt using a nerve agent.

Ten years ago: Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's regime struck back at its opponents with a powerful attack on Zawiya, the closest opposition-held city to Tripoli, and a barrage of tear gas and live ammunition to smother new protests in the capital. NASA launched its Glory satellite from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on what was supposed to have been a three-year mission to analyze how airborne particles affect Earth's climate; however, the rocket carrying Glory plummeted into the southern Pacific several minutes after liftoff.

Five years ago: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked enforcement of a Louisiana clinic regulation law placing new restrictions on abortion. Bud Collins, the tennis historian and American voice of the sport in print and on TV for decades, died in Brookline, Massachusetts, at age 86. Pat Conroy, author of "The Great Santini" and "The Prince of Tides," died in Beaufort, South Carolina, at age 70.

One year ago: The House easily passed an $8.3 billion measure aimed at speeding the development of coronavirus vaccines, paying for containment operations and beefing up preparedness. Federal health officials investigated a suburban Seattle nursing home at the center of a coronavirus outbreak. Italy closed all schools and universities and barred fans from sporting events. The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared more than 1,100 points as governments and central banks around the globe took more aggressive measures to deal with the virus and its effects on the economy. After spending more than $500 million of his own fortune in a bid for the presidency, former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg dropped out of the Democratic race, but pledged to keep spending in an effort to defeat President Donald Trump. Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, the United Nations secretary-general who brokered a historic cease-fire between Iran and Iraq in 1988, died at the age of 100.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Paula Prentiss is 83. Movie director Adrian Lyne is 80. Singer Shakin' Stevens is 73. Author James Ellroy is 73. Former Energy Secretary Rick Perry is 71. Singer Chris Rea is 70. Actor/rock singer-musician Ronn Moss is 69. Actor Kay Lenz is 68. Musician Emilio Estefan is 68. Movie director Scott Hicks is 68. Actor Catherine O'Hara is 67. Actor Mykelti Williamson is 64. Actor Patricia Heaton is 63. Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., is 63. Actor Steven Weber is 60. Rock musician Jason Newsted is 58. Actor Stacy Edwards is 56. Rapper Grand Puba is 55. Rock singer Evan Dando (Lemonheads) is 54. Actor Patsy Kensit is 53. Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., is 53. Gay rights activist Chaz Bono is 52. Actor Andrea Bendewald is 51. Actor Nick Stabile is 51. Country singer Jason Sellers is 50. Jazz musician Jason Marsalis is 44. Actor Jessica Heap is 38. Actor Scott Michael Foster is 36. TV personality Whitney Port is 36. Actor Audrey Esparza is 35. Actor Margo Harshman is 35. Actor Josh Bowman is 33. Actor Andrea Bowen is 31. Actor Jenna Boyd is 28.

<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, March 4, the 63rd day of 2021. There are 302 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On March 4, 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt took office as America's 32nd president. On this date: In 1789, the Constitution of the United States went into effect as the first Federal Congress met in New York. (The lawmakers then adjourned for lack of a quorum.) In 1797, John Adams was inaugurated the second president of the United States.In 1863, the Idaho Territory was created.In 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated for a second term of office; with the end of the Civil War in sight, Lincoln declared: "With malice toward none, with charity for all." In 1964, Teamsters president James Hoffa and three co-defendants were found guilty by a federal court in Chattanooga, Tennessee, of jury tampering. In 1974, the first issue of People magazine, then called People Weekly, was published by Time-Life Inc.; on the cover was actor Mia Farrow. In 1981, a jury in Salt Lake City convicted Joseph Paul Franklin, an avowed racist and serial killer, of violating the civil rights of two Black men, Ted Fields and David Martin, who'd been shot to death. (Franklin received two life sentences for this crime; he was executed in 2013 for the 1977 murder of a Jewish man, Gerald Gordon.)In 1987, President Ronald Reagan addressed the nation on the Iran-Contra affair, acknowledging that his overtures to Iran had "deteriorated" into an arms-for-hostages deal. In 1994, in New York, four extremists were convicted of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing that killed six people and injured more than a thousand. Actor-comedian John Candy died in Durango, Mexico, at age 43. In 1998, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that sexual harassment at work can be illegal even when the offender and victim are of the same gender. In 2015, the Justice Department cleared Darren Wilson, a white former Ferguson, Missouri, police officer, in the fatal shooting of Michael Brown, a Black 18-year-old, but also issued a scathing report calling for sweeping changes in city law enforcement practices. In 2018, former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter were found unconscious on a bench in the southwestern English city of Salisbury; both survived what British authorities said was a murder attempt using a nerve agent.Ten years ago: Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's regime struck back at its opponents with a powerful attack on Zawiya, the closest opposition-held city to Tripoli, and a barrage of tear gas and live ammunition to smother new protests in the capital. NASA launched its Glory satellite from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on what was supposed to have been a three-year mission to analyze how airborne particles affect Earth's climate; however, the rocket carrying Glory plummeted into the southern Pacific several minutes after liftoff.Five years ago: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked enforcement of a Louisiana clinic regulation law placing new restrictions on abortion. Bud Collins, the tennis historian and American voice of the sport in print and on TV for decades, died in Brookline, Massachusetts, at age 86. Pat Conroy, author of "The Great Santini" and "The Prince of Tides," died in Beaufort, South Carolina, at age 70.One year ago: The House easily passed an $8.3 billion measure aimed at speeding the development of coronavirus vaccines, paying for containment operations and beefing up preparedness. Federal health officials investigated a suburban Seattle nursing home at the center of a coronavirus outbreak. Italy closed all schools and universities and barred fans from sporting events. The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared more than 1,100 points as governments and central banks around the globe took more aggressive measures to deal with the virus and its effects on the economy. After spending more than $500 million of his own fortune in a bid for the presidency, former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg dropped out of the Democratic race, but pledged to keep spending in an effort to defeat President Donald Trump. Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, the United Nations secretary-general who brokered a historic cease-fire between Iran and Iraq in 1988, died at the age of 100.Today's Birthdays: Actor Paula Prentiss is 83. Movie director Adrian Lyne is 80. Singer Shakin' Stevens is 73. Author James Ellroy is 73. Former Energy Secretary Rick Perry is 71. Singer Chris Rea is 70. Actor/rock singer-musician Ronn Moss is 69. Actor Kay Lenz is 68. Musician Emilio Estefan is 68. Movie director Scott Hicks is 68. Actor Catherine O'Hara is 67. Actor Mykelti Williamson is 64. Actor Patricia Heaton is 63. Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., is 63. Actor Steven Weber is 60. Rock musician Jason Newsted is 58. Actor Stacy Edwards is 56. Rapper Grand Puba is 55. Rock singer Evan Dando (Lemonheads) is 54. Actor Patsy Kensit is 53. Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., is 53. Gay rights activist Chaz Bono is 52. Actor Andrea Bendewald is 51. Actor Nick Stabile is 51. Country singer Jason Sellers is 50. Jazz musician Jason Marsalis is 44. Actor Jessica Heap is 38. Actor Scott Michael Foster is 36. TV personality Whitney Port is 36. Actor Audrey Esparza is 35. Actor Margo Harshman is 35. Actor Josh Bowman is 33. Actor Andrea Bowen is 31. Actor Jenna Boyd is 28.

Today in History -- March 4

MANHATTAN – No one needs to stretch their memory too far to see the devastation that can be caused when severe weather strikes. The recent arctic blast across many parts of the United States – and especially in Texas – is a blaring testimony to the destructive effects on communities and livelihoods.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/" target="_blank">National Weather Service</a>&nbsp;has declared March 1-5 as Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Kansas, where the old joke stands that if you don’t like the weather currently, just wait a few hours.&nbsp;

“We don’t have to look further than February when we went from a frigid, arctic outbreak to mild, summer weather in the matter of a day,” said Mary Knapp, an assistant state climatologist at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

History proves that spring in Kansas comes with a variety of weather threats, including tornadoes, straight-line winds, hail, lightning, flash floods and more.&nbsp;

“The forecast for spring (March through May) in Kansas is that we will be drier and warmer than normal,” Knapp said. “That’s based on average conditions over the course of the season. But that does not preclude a storm event that would drop a lot of water in a very short time and produce flooding risks.”&nbsp;

Considering the unpredictable nature of weather, Knapp says it’s crucial to have a plan in place to deal with the potential effects of bad weather.&nbsp;

“One of the things that the National Weather Service recommends is that people review plans for themselves and their family to make sure everything is still in place and people know what to do,” Knapp said. “Go over with your friends and family what you will do for each of the different kinds of weather events, whether that might be a tornado alert, power outage, wind or flooding.”&nbsp;

Now is also a good time to check on emergency supplies.&nbsp;

“Check your weather radio to make sure you can receive alerts inside the location that you will be staying, such as the storm shelter or a safe room in your house,” Knapp said. “Sign up for emergency alerts (often sent by text message) that might be offered by your county emergency preparedness office.”&nbsp;

Knapp suggests buying a transistor radio, if you don’t already have one, and fresh batteries. A transistor radio will help you get local information from broadcast media in case power is not available. Think through the many ways you might receive information from local authorities.&nbsp;

“You don’t know which information source might be cut off,” Knapp said. “For instance, if a wind storm causes damage to cell towers, your cell phone may not have reception any longer. If you are relying on the Internet or cable and your power goes off, you won’t have access to computer or television.”&nbsp;

Knapp shared additional ideas for dealing with various weather events:&nbsp;

Tornadoes – Plan on how family will communicate if the kids are at school and parents at work or you’re all out at the playground.

Lightning – If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. You should be in an indoor facility, not an outdoor overhang or picnic shelter. You can also take shelter inside your car. Avoid contact with the ground.

Hail – If you’re driving, get off the road as quickly as possible. Do not seek shelter under an overpass, because it creates a bottleneck and increases the risk of a traffic accident.

Wind – Tornadoes get the bulk of the publicity, but straight-line winds can be every bit as strong and dangerous. If strong winds are in the forecast, take shelter as you would for a tornado warning.

Flooding – Never drive into water that is covering a roadway. It’s difficult to know how deep the water is, and it takes less water than you think to sweep a car away. Also, it’s nearly impossible to know if the roadway is intact beneath the water. The National Weather Service has a campaign encouraging motorists who encounter flooded roadways to ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown.’ If there’s water over a roadway, wait for it to subside or find an alternate route.&nbsp;

Knapp recommends keeping current with weather conditions in your area by visiting the website for the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of more than 70 weather stations located throughout the state.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service also provides&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/" target="_blank">local weather information</a>&nbsp;on its website.&nbsp;

You also can get up-to-date weather on <a href="http://SalinaPost.com">SalinaPost.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614863086538.jpeg" alt="Be prepared for a variety of weather this spring. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Be prepared for a variety of weather this spring. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – No one needs to stretch their memory too far to see the devastation that can be caused when severe weather strikes. The recent arctic blast across many parts of the United States – and especially in Texas – is a blaring testimony to the destructive effects on communities and livelihoods.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/" target="_blank">National Weather Service</a>&nbsp;has declared March 1-5 as Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Kansas, where the old joke stands that if you don’t like the weather currently, just wait a few hours.&nbsp;“We don’t have to look further than February when we went from a frigid, arctic outbreak to mild, summer weather in the matter of a day,” said Mary Knapp, an assistant state climatologist at Kansas State University.&nbsp;History proves that spring in Kansas comes with a variety of weather threats, including tornadoes, straight-line winds, hail, lightning, flash floods and more.&nbsp;“The forecast for spring (March through May) in Kansas is that we will be drier and warmer than normal,” Knapp said. “That’s based on average conditions over the course of the season. But that does not preclude a storm event that would drop a lot of water in a very short time and produce flooding risks.”&nbsp;Considering the unpredictable nature of weather, Knapp says it’s crucial to have a plan in place to deal with the potential effects of bad weather.&nbsp;“One of the things that the National Weather Service recommends is that people review plans for themselves and their family to make sure everything is still in place and people know what to do,” Knapp said. “Go over with your friends and family what you will do for each of the different kinds of weather events, whether that might be a tornado alert, power outage, wind or flooding.”&nbsp;Now is also a good time to check on emergency supplies.&nbsp;“Check your weather radio to make sure you can receive alerts inside the location that you will be staying, such as the storm shelter or a safe room in your house,” Knapp said. “Sign up for emergency alerts (often sent by text message) that might be offered by your county emergency preparedness office.”&nbsp;Knapp suggests buying a transistor radio, if you don’t already have one, and fresh batteries. A transistor radio will help you get local information from broadcast media in case power is not available. Think through the many ways you might receive information from local authorities.&nbsp;“You don’t know which information source might be cut off,” Knapp said. “For instance, if a wind storm causes damage to cell towers, your cell phone may not have reception any longer. If you are relying on the Internet or cable and your power goes off, you won’t have access to computer or television.”&nbsp;Knapp shared additional ideas for dealing with various weather events:&nbsp;Tornadoes – Plan on how family will communicate if the kids are at school and parents at work or you’re all out at the playground. Lightning – If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. You should be in an indoor facility, not an outdoor overhang or picnic shelter. You can also take shelter inside your car. Avoid contact with the ground.Hail – If you’re driving, get off the road as quickly as possible. Do not seek shelter under an overpass, because it creates a bottleneck and increases the risk of a traffic accident.Wind – Tornadoes get the bulk of the publicity, but straight-line winds can be every bit as strong and dangerous. If strong winds are in the forecast, take shelter as you would for a tornado warning.Flooding – Never drive into water that is covering a roadway. It’s difficult to know how deep the water is, and it takes less water than you think to sweep a car away. Also, it’s nearly impossible to know if the roadway is intact beneath the water. The National Weather Service has a campaign encouraging motorists who encounter flooded roadways to ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown.’ If there’s water over a roadway, wait for it to subside or find an alternate route.&nbsp;Knapp recommends keeping current with weather conditions in your area by visiting the website for the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of more than 70 weather stations located throughout the state.&nbsp;The National Weather Service also provides&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/" target="_blank">local weather information</a>&nbsp;on its website.&nbsp;You also can get up-to-date weather on <a href="http://SalinaPost.com">SalinaPost.com</a>.

Climatologist urges Kansans to make plans prior to adverse weather 

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.

We are pleased to share that no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our February 26 update; the total number of members of our community who have lost their lives to this deadly virus stands at 106. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have two patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been 13 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 1, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,964.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 413 cases. At least 5,427 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rOPTihd0ys9nSHToO_4iUeDDMrzuafpBEHkTOg6p23DoFg5r1TKORYaDrJ6bCl4eu1umGEseakqmB6EmEWX3bo426gj_TeC_29LOUvYIBcU8INeAChWjBfwvYm3_1OtX2FDxaSP2x4AU12DDrzTBb5GeK9ZUDdEG&amp;c=Mn7hQmq2sTJbJRAor5vEopz1u1ry0jNBWy9Xt1wFIZIvtEpL3JvLww==&amp;ch=IvgGb7VO_9dWvFDtA2cvAOtg9otQ3IAgB6QQdo1C8m2DvNrPv-SSeQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 295,109 cases and 4,816 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;

1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;

2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;

3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;

4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;

5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.

6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rOPTihd0ys9nSHToO_4iUeDDMrzuafpBEHkTOg6p23DoFg5r1TKORYaDrJ6bCl4eGrnBffKU9tnrlwTavQAp_4VWcpR6KpRLQ5PrEQKE_PuR8lUaFFCWlNC8MP3BXvG8SzkrVqtosUH739v4bxolARVejuz8UXai&amp;c=Mn7hQmq2sTJbJRAor5vEopz1u1ry0jNBWy9Xt1wFIZIvtEpL3JvLww==&amp;ch=IvgGb7VO_9dWvFDtA2cvAOtg9otQ3IAgB6QQdo1C8m2DvNrPv-SSeQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rOPTihd0ys9nSHToO_4iUeDDMrzuafpBEHkTOg6p23DoFg5r1TKORYaDrJ6bCl4eFmX4tJ6fIiE8Qs10rxGRW4g9myyQpr3RML8WTqv5DIkAYDsBEX0CzgIkpv00DUfgoRhw5EkGE8g=&amp;c=Mn7hQmq2sTJbJRAor5vEopz1u1ry0jNBWy9Xt1wFIZIvtEpL3JvLww==&amp;ch=IvgGb7VO_9dWvFDtA2cvAOtg9otQ3IAgB6QQdo1C8m2DvNrPv-SSeQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614811605815.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.We are pleased to share that no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our February 26 update; the total number of members of our community who have lost their lives to this deadly virus stands at 106. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have two patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been 13 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 1, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,964. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 413 cases. At least 5,427 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rOPTihd0ys9nSHToO_4iUeDDMrzuafpBEHkTOg6p23DoFg5r1TKORYaDrJ6bCl4eu1umGEseakqmB6EmEWX3bo426gj_TeC_29LOUvYIBcU8INeAChWjBfwvYm3_1OtX2FDxaSP2x4AU12DDrzTBb5GeK9ZUDdEG&amp;c=Mn7hQmq2sTJbJRAor5vEopz1u1ry0jNBWy9Xt1wFIZIvtEpL3JvLww==&amp;ch=IvgGb7VO_9dWvFDtA2cvAOtg9otQ3IAgB6QQdo1C8m2DvNrPv-SSeQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 295,109 cases and 4,816 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rOPTihd0ys9nSHToO_4iUeDDMrzuafpBEHkTOg6p23DoFg5r1TKORYaDrJ6bCl4eGrnBffKU9tnrlwTavQAp_4VWcpR6KpRLQ5PrEQKE_PuR8lUaFFCWlNC8MP3BXvG8SzkrVqtosUH739v4bxolARVejuz8UXai&amp;c=Mn7hQmq2sTJbJRAor5vEopz1u1ry0jNBWy9Xt1wFIZIvtEpL3JvLww==&amp;ch=IvgGb7VO_9dWvFDtA2cvAOtg9otQ3IAgB6QQdo1C8m2DvNrPv-SSeQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rOPTihd0ys9nSHToO_4iUeDDMrzuafpBEHkTOg6p23DoFg5r1TKORYaDrJ6bCl4eFmX4tJ6fIiE8Qs10rxGRW4g9myyQpr3RML8WTqv5DIkAYDsBEX0CzgIkpv00DUfgoRhw5EkGE8g=&amp;c=Mn7hQmq2sTJbJRAor5vEopz1u1ry0jNBWy9Xt1wFIZIvtEpL3JvLww==&amp;ch=IvgGb7VO_9dWvFDtA2cvAOtg9otQ3IAgB6QQdo1C8m2DvNrPv-SSeQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County: 13 new COVID-19 cases; 5,427 of 5,964 recovered

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Mankato public water supply system, located in Jewell County. 

The advisory was issued because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Mankato public water supply system, located in Jewell County. The advisory was issued because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Mankato indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDMuMzYyOTU1MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.ElE1P47wkzncIhdiIOEvwp5U762oyneniyoSM72Q3Tk/s/1305935158/br/99379622751-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>