RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Saturday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Conner M. Brown, 19, Inman, was southbound on Kansas 61 two miles northeast of Hutchinson.

The driver lost control of the vehicle on icy roads. The pickup crossed the median and struck a 2006 GMC Acadia driven by&nbsp;Carey, Ryon C. Carey, 47, Lindsborg, head-on. The impact&nbsp; caused the GMC to roll onto its top in the west ditch.

EMS transported a passenger in the GMC James H. Baker, 57, Lindsborg, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained a the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Saturday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Conner M. Brown, 19, Inman, was southbound on Kansas 61 two miles northeast of Hutchinson.The driver lost control of the vehicle on icy roads. The pickup crossed the median and struck a 2006 GMC Acadia driven by&nbsp;Carey, Ryon C. Carey, 47, Lindsborg, head-on. The impact&nbsp; caused the GMC to roll onto its top in the west ditch.EMS transported a passenger in the GMC James H. Baker, 57, Lindsborg, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained a the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Lindsborg man hospitalized after head-on crash 

A new spelling bee champion was crowned today as Southeast of Saline's Kade Riffel won the Saline County Spelling Bee.

Kade was among 17 students from Coronado Elementary School, South Middle School, Cornerstone Classical School, Southeast of Saline, Meadowlark Elementary School, and Schilling Elementary School who participated in the competition at Southeast of Saline, Mike Garretson, Saline County Spelling Bee coordinator, told Salina Post. The oral Scripps Howard spelling bee was open to any fourth- through eighth-grade student in Saline County.

Kade will now head to Wichita March 27 to represent Saline County in the state spelling bee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612653081655.jpeg" alt="Winners of the top three places in the Saline County Spelling Bee are, from left, Charlotte Knopf, Southeast of Saline, third place; Broden Turner, Coronado Elementary School, second place; and Kade Riffel, Southeast of Saline, first place. Photo courtesy Mike Garretson" />
 <figcaption>Winners of the top three places in the Saline County Spelling Bee are, from left, Charlotte Knopf, Southeast of Saline, third place; Broden Turner, Coronado Elementary School, second place; and Kade Riffel, Southeast of Saline, first place. Photo courtesy Mike Garretson</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA new spelling bee champion was crowned today as Southeast of Saline's Kade Riffel won the Saline County Spelling Bee.Kade was among 17 students from Coronado Elementary School, South Middle School, Cornerstone Classical School, Southeast of Saline, Meadowlark Elementary School, and Schilling Elementary School who participated in the competition at Southeast of Saline, Mike Garretson, Saline County Spelling Bee coordinator, told Salina Post. The oral Scripps Howard spelling bee was open to any fourth- through eighth-grade student in Saline County.Kade will now head to Wichita March 27 to represent Saline County in the state spelling bee.

SES's Kade Riffel is the county spelling bee w-i-n-n-e-r

"Exploring Pollinators" is the theme of this year's Insect Art Contest.

Sponsored by K-State Research and Extension's Integrated Pest Management &amp; Pesticide Safety Education, the contest is open to Kansas 4-Hers and art students from kindergarten through high school. Entries can be submitted until April 16, 2021.

"The insect art contest provides an avenue to learn about insects and pollinators, while expressing the youth's creativity," Frannie Miller, K-State pesticide safety and IPM coordinator, told Salina Post.

The goal is to explore what pollinators do and why they are important and create an art piece that captures that information. This year’s winning insect masterpieces will help promote pollinator week June 21-27.

For the contest rules and an entry form, <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/">click here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612642843130.jpeg" alt="Kendall Schoenhals' 'Mayfly,' one of last year's category winners. Photos courtesy KSRE IPM" />
 <figcaption>Kendall Schoenhals' 'Mayfly,' one of last year's category winners. Photos courtesy KSRE IPM</figcaption>
 </figure>"Exploring Pollinators" is the theme of this year's Insect Art Contest.Sponsored by K-State Research and Extension's Integrated Pest Management &amp; Pesticide Safety Education, the contest is open to Kansas 4-Hers and art students from kindergarten through high school. Entries can be submitted until April 16, 2021."The insect art contest provides an avenue to learn about insects and pollinators, while expressing the youth's creativity," Frannie Miller, K-State pesticide safety and IPM coordinator, told Salina Post.The goal is to explore what pollinators do and why they are important and create an art piece that captures that information. This year’s winning insect masterpieces will help promote pollinator week June 21-27.For the contest rules and an entry form, <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/">click here</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612643053597.jpeg" alt="Kyla Lankton's 'Ant,'&nbsp;one of last year's category winners." />
 <figcaption>Kyla Lankton's 'Ant,'&nbsp;one of last year's category winners.</figcaption>
 </figure>

KSRE's IPM now accepting entries for Insect Art Contest

The Rolling Hills Zoo's MVPs make their picks for the Super Bowl. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rollinghillszoo/">Rolling Hills Zoo</a> Facebook page:

The Rolling Hills Zoo's MVPs make their picks for the Super Bowl. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rollinghillszoo/">Rolling Hills Zoo</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Frollinghillszoo%2Fvideos%2F136555468331002%2F&show_text=true&width=560" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Rolling Hills Zoo's MVPs make their picks for the Super Bowl

An arctic air mass will overspread the region this weekend and remain in place through all of next week. This will provide dangerous wind chills each morning across the region, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612624911574.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An arctic air mass will overspread the region this weekend and remain in place through all of next week. This will provide dangerous wind chills each morning across the region, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

NWS: Watch out for dangerous wind chills next week

Twenty-eight new law enforcement officers graduated from the&nbsp;Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center&nbsp;(KLETC) on Friday at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium.

Shannon Kratt of the Augusta Department of Public Safety was the graduating class president. The speaker for the ceremony was the Sheriff for Wyandotte County, Donald Ash. Steve McCorkill, KLETC senior instructor of police, was the class coordinator for the 273rd Basic Training Class. Jarin Watkins from the Coffeyville Police Department was recognized for his firearms proficiency as the class’ “Top Shot.”

KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck and Class President Shannon Kratt.

Graduates receive certificates of course completion from KLETC and Kansas law enforcement certification from the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training, the state’s law enforcement licensing authority. The training course fulfills the state requirement for law enforcement training. Classroom lectures and hands-on applications help train officers to solve the increasingly complex problems they face in the line of duty.

Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC trains the majority of municipal, county, and state law enforcement officers in Kansas and oversees the training of the remaining officers at seven authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson, and is a division of the University of Kansas Lifelong &amp; Professional Education.

The graduates, who began their training in September 2020, represented 17 municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas. Graduates are listed below by county and agency:

• Shannon Kratt - Augusta Department of Public Safety

•&nbsp;Amanda Cole - Augusta Department of Public Safety

•&nbsp;Michael Wigart - Augusta Department of Public Safety

•&nbsp;Arlo Leuke - Columbus Police Department

•&nbsp;Cory Johnson - Cowley County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Esther Law - Arkansas City Police Department

•&nbsp;Spencer Warren - Arkansas City Police Department

•&nbsp;William Wollard - Winfield Police Department

•&nbsp;Brennon Marcotte - Winfield Police Department

•&nbsp;Braden Parke - Ellis County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Adam Granatowski - Dodge City Police Department

•&nbsp;William Bishop - Harper County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Brad Crochet - Newton Police Department

•&nbsp;Michael Tedder - Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Austin Watts - Marysville Police Department

•&nbsp;Bryant Jones - Marshall County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Robert McAnany - Miami County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Dallas Onions - Miami County Sheriff’s Office

•&nbsp;Tristan Geiger Osawatomie Department of Public Safety

•&nbsp;Jarin Watkins - Coffeyville Police Department

•&nbsp;Chance March - Coffeyville Police Department

•&nbsp;Kalen Ingalsbe - Saline County Sheriff's Office

•&nbsp;Alycia Buchanan - Saline County Sheriff's Office

•&nbsp;Luis Garcia - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

•&nbsp;Amber Freeman - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

•&nbsp;Jared McGrew - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

•&nbsp;Michael Morse - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

•&nbsp;Brian Warczkoski - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612585094380.jpeg" alt="Members of KLETC's 273th Basic Training Class take their oath Friday. Photo by Jason Levy courtesy KLETC" />
 <figcaption>Members of KLETC's 273th Basic Training Class take their oath Friday. Photo by Jason Levy courtesy KLETC</figcaption>
 </figure>Twenty-eight new law enforcement officers graduated from the&nbsp;Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center&nbsp;(KLETC) on Friday at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium.Shannon Kratt of the Augusta Department of Public Safety was the graduating class president. The speaker for the ceremony was the Sheriff for Wyandotte County, Donald Ash. Steve McCorkill, KLETC senior instructor of police, was the class coordinator for the 273rd Basic Training Class. Jarin Watkins from the Coffeyville Police Department was recognized for his firearms proficiency as the class’ “Top Shot.”KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck and Class President Shannon Kratt.Graduates receive certificates of course completion from KLETC and Kansas law enforcement certification from the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training, the state’s law enforcement licensing authority. The training course fulfills the state requirement for law enforcement training. Classroom lectures and hands-on applications help train officers to solve the increasingly complex problems they face in the line of duty.Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC trains the majority of municipal, county, and state law enforcement officers in Kansas and oversees the training of the remaining officers at seven authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol.About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson, and is a division of the University of Kansas Lifelong &amp; Professional Education.The graduates, who began their training in September 2020, represented 17 municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas. Graduates are listed below by county and agency:Butler• Shannon Kratt - Augusta Department of Public Safety•&nbsp;Amanda Cole - Augusta Department of Public Safety•&nbsp;Michael Wigart - Augusta Department of Public SafetyCherokee•&nbsp;Arlo Leuke - Columbus Police DepartmentCowley•&nbsp;Cory Johnson - Cowley County Sheriff’s Office•&nbsp;Esther Law - Arkansas City Police Department•&nbsp;Spencer Warren - Arkansas City Police Department•&nbsp;William Wollard - Winfield Police Department•&nbsp;Brennon Marcotte - Winfield Police DepartmentEllis•&nbsp;Braden Parke - Ellis County Sheriff’s OfficeFord•&nbsp;Adam Granatowski - Dodge City Police DepartmentHarper•&nbsp;William Bishop - Harper County Sheriff’s OfficeHarvey•&nbsp;Brad Crochet - Newton Police DepartmentKiowa•&nbsp;Michael Tedder - Kiowa County Sheriff’s OfficeMarshall•&nbsp;Austin Watts - Marysville Police Department•&nbsp;Bryant Jones - Marshall County Sheriff’s OfficeMiami•&nbsp;Robert McAnany - Miami County Sheriff’s Office•&nbsp;Dallas Onions - Miami County Sheriff’s Office•&nbsp;Tristan Geiger Osawatomie Department of Public SafetyMontgomery•&nbsp;Jarin Watkins - Coffeyville Police Department•&nbsp;Chance March - Coffeyville Police DepartmentSaline•&nbsp;Kalen Ingalsbe - Saline County Sheriff's Office•&nbsp;Alycia Buchanan - Saline County Sheriff's OfficeWyandotte•&nbsp;Luis Garcia - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office•&nbsp;Amber Freeman - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office•&nbsp;Jared McGrew - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office•&nbsp;Michael Morse - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office•&nbsp;Brian Warczkoski - Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

Saline County Sheriff's Office personnel graduate from KLETC

Less driving and missed maintenance during pandemic could worsen problem

WICHITA – With extreme arctic-like temperatures forecast for the area starting this weekend and throughout next week, AAA Kansas urges drivers to make sure their cars are ready for the cold, as some vehicles sit idle for days or weeks at a time because of COVID-19.

AAA Kansas is preparing to see an increase in emergency roadside rescue requests for vehicles with tire, battery and other issues caused by dangerously cold weather. Last winter, more than 22,500 stranded drivers in Kansas called AAA’s Roadside Rescue team for assistance.&nbsp;

While routine maintenance is the best protection against breakdowns that could leave drivers, and their passengers stranded, it may have been overlooked by drivers amid the pandemic.&nbsp;Even with fewer miles driven, preventive maintenance check-ups are still important.

Aside from routine maintenance, AAA automotive experts recommend drivers pay special attention to these key vehicle components:

Batteries Starting an engine in cold temperatures can take up to twice as much current as needed under normal conditions. Calls for dead batteries in particular have been higher than usual because more vehicles are sitting idle for days or weeks at a time because of COVID-19.

●Have the battery and charging system tested by a trained technician.

 ●Make sure the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion and the connections are tight.

Tires Air expands when it is heated and contracts when it is cooled. As the air temperature drops outside, so does the air pressure in your tires. Why is this important? Maintaining proper tire inflation is essential for safe driving.&nbsp;&nbsp;For every 10 degree-change in&nbsp;air temperature, a&nbsp;tire's pressure&nbsp;will change by about 1-2 PSI (pounds per square inch).&nbsp;

Check tire pressure. Colder weather can require adding air to tires.&nbsp;Make sure pressure levels match those found in either the owner’s manual or&nbsp;on the driver’s door jamb,&nbsp;and note that pressure levels may be different for front and rear tires.

Check tire tread. Test tread depth with a quarter.&nbsp;If all of Washington’s head can be seen, it is time for new tires.

Check for a spare tire. Motorists should know whether their vehicle comes with a spare tire (many newer cars do not).&nbsp;This helps AAA know whether to send a light service vehicle (to put on the spare) or a tow truck for a vehicle without a spare.

Fluids AAA automotive experts report seeing increased numbers of vehicles in need of repair because of issues with fluids. With subzero temperatures expected, it’s critical that drivers take time to ensure proper vehicle fluids are being used, levels are correct and they are rated for the weather conditions.

Coolant:&nbsp;engine coolant performs a vital job when the temperature drops. It lowers the freezing point of the cooling system in winter. Failing to ensure coolant levels can handle the extremely cold temperatures could result in serious and expensive damage to the vehicle’s engine.&nbsp;AAA automotive experts recommend that coolant protection be at 30 below zero.

Washer Fluid:&nbsp;Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a winter-blend cleaning solution to prevent it from freezing and avoid damage to the windshield washer system.

Safety Whether you have a long commute to work or just need to drive a short distance to the store, preparation is key to making the trip safely. For more information on ways to prepare your vehicle for the winter weather visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d83%3b4%400-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=365317&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">5 Ways to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather Travels</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612578883746.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy AAA" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy AAA</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Less driving and missed maintenance during pandemic could worsen problem</h2>WICHITA – With extreme arctic-like temperatures forecast for the area starting this weekend and throughout next week, AAA Kansas urges drivers to make sure their cars are ready for the cold, as some vehicles sit idle for days or weeks at a time because of COVID-19.AAA Kansas is preparing to see an increase in emergency roadside rescue requests for vehicles with tire, battery and other issues caused by dangerously cold weather. Last winter, more than 22,500 stranded drivers in Kansas called AAA’s Roadside Rescue team for assistance.&nbsp;While routine maintenance is the best protection against breakdowns that could leave drivers, and their passengers stranded, it may have been overlooked by drivers amid the pandemic.&nbsp;Even with fewer miles driven, preventive maintenance check-ups are still important.Aside from routine maintenance, AAA automotive experts recommend drivers pay special attention to these key vehicle components:Batteries Starting an engine in cold temperatures can take up to twice as much current as needed under normal conditions. Calls for dead batteries in particular have been higher than usual because more vehicles are sitting idle for days or weeks at a time because of COVID-19.●The average battery lasts 3-5 years.●Have the battery and charging system tested by a trained technician. ●Make sure the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion and the connections are tight.Tires Air expands when it is heated and contracts when it is cooled. As the air temperature drops outside, so does the air pressure in your tires. Why is this important? Maintaining proper tire inflation is essential for safe driving.&nbsp;&nbsp;For every 10 degree-change in&nbsp;air temperature, a&nbsp;tire's pressure&nbsp;will change by about 1-2 PSI (pounds per square inch).&nbsp;How to check your tires:Check tire pressure. Colder weather can require adding air to tires.&nbsp;Make sure pressure levels match those found in either the owner’s manual or&nbsp;on the driver’s door jamb,&nbsp;and note that pressure levels may be different for front and rear tires.Check tire tread. Test tread depth with a quarter.&nbsp;If all of Washington’s head can be seen, it is time for new tires.Check for a spare tire. Motorists should know whether their vehicle comes with a spare tire (many newer cars do not).&nbsp;This helps AAA know whether to send a light service vehicle (to put on the spare) or a tow truck for a vehicle without a spare.Fluids AAA automotive experts report seeing increased numbers of vehicles in need of repair because of issues with fluids. With subzero temperatures expected, it’s critical that drivers take time to ensure proper vehicle fluids are being used, levels are correct and they are rated for the weather conditions.Coolant:&nbsp;engine coolant performs a vital job when the temperature drops. It lowers the freezing point of the cooling system in winter. Failing to ensure coolant levels can handle the extremely cold temperatures could result in serious and expensive damage to the vehicle’s engine.&nbsp;AAA automotive experts recommend that coolant protection be at 30 below zero.Washer Fluid:&nbsp;Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a winter-blend cleaning solution to prevent it from freezing and avoid damage to the windshield washer system.Safety Whether you have a long commute to work or just need to drive a short distance to the store, preparation is key to making the trip safely. For more information on ways to prepare your vehicle for the winter weather visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d83%3b4%400-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=365317&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">5 Ways to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather Travels</a>.--<a href="http://www.AAA.com">AAA</a>--

AAA: Cold alert -- frigid temps can lead to vehicle breakdowns

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

Can first impressions lead to changes in communities? Yes, based on the experience of one rural community that used the First Impressions program as a springboard for strategic actions to make community improvements.&nbsp;

Gary Olson is an entrepreneur, farmer, and real estate broker in Gypsum, Kansas. He grew up on a nearby farm and now produces seed wheat and has a real estate company. He’s also seen the struggles of rural communities. “Our town had about died,” Gary said.&nbsp;

In January 2019, he bought a building in downtown Gypsum and revitalized the flea market which had been operating there as a place for vendors to sell various products. Some are original custom products, such as from a nearby welding shop. Others are used or repurposed products that can be purchased affordably. People can sell items on consignment or donate them. “Our customers say they find hidden treasures here,” Gary said.&nbsp;

Resa Risinger is now the flea market manager. She noted that the market offered special promotions during the holidays such as a drawing for a free turkey and three hams.&nbsp;

“(The market) has grown exponentially,” Gary said. Promoting it on social media and allowing credit- and debit-card purchases has made a big difference. “Sales went through the roof,” Gary said. “Our guest book says that we’ve had visitors from as far away as California and Michigan and Sydney, Australia.”&nbsp;

Through another Gypsum resident, Leslie Manning, Gary learned about the First Impressions community-betterment program. First Impressions is offered to communities at no cost by K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

The purpose of the program is to build awareness of a community’s strengths as well as areas of concern, using feedback from outside the community. Once a community chooses to participate, a team of trained volunteers from a similar town will visit the community and record its impressions of various community elements, such as:&nbsp;

The results are presented at a community meeting.&nbsp;

Gary Olson and Leslie Manning were among those who went to a presentation to learn about the First Impressions program. They helped encourage the city of Gypsum to participate in the program. “A team from Glasco came down and gave us feedback,” Gary said.&nbsp;

Such outside perspectives can be useful in seeing one’s community through the eyes of a first-time visitor. In the case of Gypsum, this led to community action. “The next logical step was a program called Strategic Doing,” Gary said. “The extension office helped us organize a brainstorming meeting.” Facilitator Betty Johnson helped the community organize task forces to work on top priority issues, such as youth development, parks and recreation, and senior housing.&nbsp;

One prominent project was a new “Welcome to Gypsum” sign. “That sign was in the works for several years. Sandy Kruse worked on it,” Gary said.&nbsp;

New owners have purchased the restaurant, and other new businesses have opened.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’ve opened a business center at the flea market,” Gary said. Strategic Doing has also led to the creation of the Gypsum Valley Community Foundation Fund, which has already raised more than $20,000.&nbsp;

“We’ve come a really, really long way,” Gary said. “Without those two programs (First Impressions and Strategic Doing), we wouldn’t have the community we do.”&nbsp;

It’s great to see such progress in a rural community such as Gypsum, population 405 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gypsumfleamarketandthrift" target="_blank">@gypsumfleamarketandthrift</a>&nbsp;on Facebook.&nbsp;

Can first impressions lead to community action? In the case of Gypsum, yes. Those first impressions from outside the community helped identify key needs that led to not just community strategic planning, but strategic doing.&nbsp;

We commend Gary Olson, Resa Risinger, Leslie Manning, Sandy Kruse, and the many other volunteers who are making a difference by building business and bettering the community. They are making an excellent impression.&nbsp;

And there’s more. Remember the welding company that made and sold the custom items? That small-town shop has big capabilities. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Audio and text files of Kansas Profiles are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprofile.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kansasprofile.com</a>. For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600566316666.jpeg" alt="Ron Wilson. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State UniversityCan first impressions lead to changes in communities? Yes, based on the experience of one rural community that used the First Impressions program as a springboard for strategic actions to make community improvements.&nbsp;Gary Olson is an entrepreneur, farmer, and real estate broker in Gypsum, Kansas. He grew up on a nearby farm and now produces seed wheat and has a real estate company. He’s also seen the struggles of rural communities. “Our town had about died,” Gary said.&nbsp;In January 2019, he bought a building in downtown Gypsum and revitalized the flea market which had been operating there as a place for vendors to sell various products. Some are original custom products, such as from a nearby welding shop. Others are used or repurposed products that can be purchased affordably. People can sell items on consignment or donate them. “Our customers say they find hidden treasures here,” Gary said.&nbsp;Resa Risinger is now the flea market manager. She noted that the market offered special promotions during the holidays such as a drawing for a free turkey and three hams.&nbsp;“(The market) has grown exponentially,” Gary said. Promoting it on social media and allowing credit- and debit-card purchases has made a big difference. “Sales went through the roof,” Gary said. “Our guest book says that we’ve had visitors from as far away as California and Michigan and Sydney, Australia.”&nbsp;Through another Gypsum resident, Leslie Manning, Gary learned about the First Impressions community-betterment program. First Impressions is offered to communities at no cost by K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;The purpose of the program is to build awareness of a community’s strengths as well as areas of concern, using feedback from outside the community. Once a community chooses to participate, a team of trained volunteers from a similar town will visit the community and record its impressions of various community elements, such as:&nbsp;●Residential locations.●Retail businesses.●Industrial areas.●Local government entities.●Schools.●Other points of interest. &nbsp;The results are presented at a community meeting.&nbsp;Gary Olson and Leslie Manning were among those who went to a presentation to learn about the First Impressions program. They helped encourage the city of Gypsum to participate in the program. “A team from Glasco came down and gave us feedback,” Gary said.&nbsp;Such outside perspectives can be useful in seeing one’s community through the eyes of a first-time visitor. In the case of Gypsum, this led to community action. “The next logical step was a program called Strategic Doing,” Gary said. “The extension office helped us organize a brainstorming meeting.” Facilitator Betty Johnson helped the community organize task forces to work on top priority issues, such as youth development, parks and recreation, and senior housing.&nbsp;One prominent project was a new “Welcome to Gypsum” sign. “That sign was in the works for several years. Sandy Kruse worked on it,” Gary said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612583066014.jpeg" alt="The Welcome to Gypsum sign. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>The Welcome to Gypsum sign. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>New owners have purchased the restaurant, and other new businesses have opened.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’ve opened a business center at the flea market,” Gary said. Strategic Doing has also led to the creation of the Gypsum Valley Community Foundation Fund, which has already raised more than $20,000.&nbsp;“We’ve come a really, really long way,” Gary said. “Without those two programs (First Impressions and Strategic Doing), we wouldn’t have the community we do.”&nbsp;It’s great to see such progress in a rural community such as Gypsum, population 405 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gypsumfleamarketandthrift" target="_blank">@gypsumfleamarketandthrift</a>&nbsp;on Facebook.&nbsp;Can first impressions lead to community action? In the case of Gypsum, yes. Those first impressions from outside the community helped identify key needs that led to not just community strategic planning, but strategic doing.&nbsp;We commend Gary Olson, Resa Risinger, Leslie Manning, Sandy Kruse, and the many other volunteers who are making a difference by building business and bettering the community. They are making an excellent impression.&nbsp;And there’s more. Remember the welding company that made and sold the custom items? That small-town shop has big capabilities. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;Audio and text files of Kansas Profiles are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprofile.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kansasprofile.com</a>. For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.

NOW THAT'S RURAL: Gary Olson, Gypsum

Today is Saturday, Feb. 6, the 37th day of 2021. There are 328 days left in the year. 

On Feb. 6, 1778, during the American Revolutionary War, the United States won official recognition and military support from France with the signing of a Treaty of Alliance in Paris. 

In 1756, America's third vice president, Aaron Burr, was born in Newark, N.J. 

In 1788, Massachusetts became the sixth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. 

In 1815, the state of New Jersey issued the first American railroad charter to John Stevens, who proposed a rail link between Trenton and New Brunswick. (The line, however, was never built.)

In 1862, during the Civil War, Fort Henry in Tennessee fell to Union forces. 

In 1911, Ronald Wilson Reagan, the 40th president of the United States, was born in Tampico, Illinois. 

In 1933, the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the so-called "lame duck" amendment, was proclaimed in effect by Secretary of State Henry Stimson. 

In 1952, Britain's King George VI, 56, died at Sandringham House in Norfolk, England; he was succeeded as monarch by his 25-year-old elder daughter, who became Queen Elizabeth II. 

In 1991, comedian and television performer Danny Thomas died in Los Angeles at age 79. 

In 1993, tennis Hall of Famer and human rights advocate Arthur Ashe died in New York at age 49. 

In 1998, President Bill Clinton signed a bill changing the name of Washington National Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Carl Wilson, a founding member of The Beach Boys, died in Los Angeles at age 51. 

In 2003, edging closer to war, President George W. Bush declared "the game is over" for Saddam Hussein and urged skeptical allies to join in disarming Iraq. 

In 2008, the Bush White House defended the use of the interrogation technique known as waterboarding, saying it was legal — not torture as critics argued — and had saved American lives. 

Ten years ago: Egypt's vice president met with the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood and other opposition groups and offered sweeping concessions, including granting press freedom and rolling back police powers in the government's latest attempt to end two weeks of upheaval. The Green Bay Packers won Super Bowl XLV (45), defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25. New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady became the first unanimous choice for The Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award.

Five years ago: Seven GOP Republican hopefuls faced off three days before the New Hampshire primary; Marco Rubio, a first-term senator on the rise in the presidential race, faced a barrage of attacks while Sen. Ted Cruz, fresh off his victory in the Iowa caucuses, also came under withering criticism. A magnitude-6.4 earthquake struck Tainan, Taiwan, killing 116 people. Brett Favre, Ken Stabler, Marvin Harrison, Kevin Greene, Orlando Pace and Tony Dungy were elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton won The Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player award in a landslide.

One year ago: A 57-year-old woman died in California's Santa Clara County; autopsy results would later reveal that the woman, identified by family members as Patricia Dowd of San Jose, had the coronavirus, despite not having traveled outside the country to a coronavirus outbreak area. (The death came some three weeks before health officials in the Seattle area announced what were believed then to be the first U.S. deaths from the virus.) A Chinese doctor, Li Wenliang, who got in trouble with authorities there for sounding an early warning about the coronavirus outbreak, died after coming down with the illness. Roger Kahn, the writer who wove memoir and baseball in "The Boys of Summer," a romantic account of the Brooklyn Dodgers, died in a New York suburb; he was 92.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Mamie Van Doren is 90. Actor Mike Farrell is 82. Former NBC News anchorman Tom Brokaw is 81. Singer Fabian is 78. Actor Gayle Hunnicutt is 78. Actor Michael Tucker is 76. Producer-director-writer Jim Sheridan is 72. Actor Jon Walmsley is 65. Actor Kathy Najimy is 64. Rock musician Simon Phillips (Toto) is 64. Actor-director Robert Townsend is 64. Actor Barry Miller is 63. Actor Megan Gallagher is 61. Rock singer Axl Rose (Guns N' Roses) is 59. Country singer Richie McDonald is 59. Singer Rick Astley is 55. Rock musician Tim Brown (Boo Radleys) is 52. "Good Morning America" co-host Amy Robach is 48. Actor Josh Stewart is 44. Actor Ben Lawson is 41. Actor Brandon Hammond is 37. Actor Crystal Reed (TV: "Teen Wolf") is 36. Actor Alice Greczyn is 35. Actor Anna Diop is 33. R&amp;B singer/actor Tinashe 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 Saturday, Feb. 6, the 37th day of 2021. There are 328 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Feb. 6, 1778, during the American Revolutionary War, the United States won official recognition and military support from France with the signing of a Treaty of Alliance in Paris. On this date: In 1756, America's third vice president, Aaron Burr, was born in Newark, N.J. In 1788, Massachusetts became the sixth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. In 1815, the state of New Jersey issued the first American railroad charter to John Stevens, who proposed a rail link between Trenton and New Brunswick. (The line, however, was never built.)In 1862, during the Civil War, Fort Henry in Tennessee fell to Union forces. In 1911, Ronald Wilson Reagan, the 40th president of the United States, was born in Tampico, Illinois. In 1933, the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the so-called "lame duck" amendment, was proclaimed in effect by Secretary of State Henry Stimson. In 1952, Britain's King George VI, 56, died at Sandringham House in Norfolk, England; he was succeeded as monarch by his 25-year-old elder daughter, who became Queen Elizabeth II. In 1991, comedian and television performer Danny Thomas died in Los Angeles at age 79. In 1993, tennis Hall of Famer and human rights advocate Arthur Ashe died in New York at age 49. In 1998, President Bill Clinton signed a bill changing the name of Washington National Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Carl Wilson, a founding member of The Beach Boys, died in Los Angeles at age 51. In 2003, edging closer to war, President George W. Bush declared "the game is over" for Saddam Hussein and urged skeptical allies to join in disarming Iraq. In 2008, the Bush White House defended the use of the interrogation technique known as waterboarding, saying it was legal — not torture as critics argued — and had saved American lives. Ten years ago: Egypt's vice president met with the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood and other opposition groups and offered sweeping concessions, including granting press freedom and rolling back police powers in the government's latest attempt to end two weeks of upheaval. The Green Bay Packers won Super Bowl XLV (45), defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25. New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady became the first unanimous choice for The Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award.Five years ago: Seven GOP Republican hopefuls faced off three days before the New Hampshire primary; Marco Rubio, a first-term senator on the rise in the presidential race, faced a barrage of attacks while Sen. Ted Cruz, fresh off his victory in the Iowa caucuses, also came under withering criticism. A magnitude-6.4 earthquake struck Tainan, Taiwan, killing 116 people. Brett Favre, Ken Stabler, Marvin Harrison, Kevin Greene, Orlando Pace and Tony Dungy were elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton won The Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player award in a landslide.One year ago: A 57-year-old woman died in California's Santa Clara County; autopsy results would later reveal that the woman, identified by family members as Patricia Dowd of San Jose, had the coronavirus, despite not having traveled outside the country to a coronavirus outbreak area. (The death came some three weeks before health officials in the Seattle area announced what were believed then to be the first U.S. deaths from the virus.) A Chinese doctor, Li Wenliang, who got in trouble with authorities there for sounding an early warning about the coronavirus outbreak, died after coming down with the illness. Roger Kahn, the writer who wove memoir and baseball in "The Boys of Summer," a romantic account of the Brooklyn Dodgers, died in a New York suburb; he was 92. Today's Birthdays: Actor Mamie Van Doren is 90. Actor Mike Farrell is 82. Former NBC News anchorman Tom Brokaw is 81. Singer Fabian is 78. Actor Gayle Hunnicutt is 78. Actor Michael Tucker is 76. Producer-director-writer Jim Sheridan is 72. Actor Jon Walmsley is 65. Actor Kathy Najimy is 64. Rock musician Simon Phillips (Toto) is 64. Actor-director Robert Townsend is 64. Actor Barry Miller is 63. Actor Megan Gallagher is 61. Rock singer Axl Rose (Guns N' Roses) is 59. Country singer Richie McDonald is 59. Singer Rick Astley is 55. Rock musician Tim Brown (Boo Radleys) is 52. "Good Morning America" co-host Amy Robach is 48. Actor Josh Stewart is 44. Actor Ben Lawson is 41. Actor Brandon Hammond is 37. Actor Crystal Reed (TV: "Teen Wolf") is 36. Actor Alice Greczyn is 35. Actor Anna Diop is 33. R&amp;B singer/actor Tinashe is 28.

Today in History -- Feb. 6

Comfort Heating &amp; Air and Mokas Coffee are proud to announce the 2020 Salute to Service winner: Casey Flinn. 

Last fall/winter a weekly contest on Salina Post honored local police officers, military members, medical professionals, and first responders in our community.

Each week a winner was selected and that winner received a $50 gift card to Mokas Coffee in Salina. Then, all the weekly winners were entered in a random drawing. Out of the qualifiers Casey Flinn was chosen to receive a prize package that includes: an overnight stay at the Homewood Suites in downtown Salina, gift cards from Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro, Mokas Coffee, and more. Comfort Heating &amp; Air donated $500 to the Isis Shrine Temple in his honor. The Isis Shriners support Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals that serve families regardless of their ability to pay. 

Congratulations to all of the 2020 Salute to Service nominees and thank you for your service from Mokas Coffee, Salina Post, and Comfort Heating &amp; Air, the company that cares!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612580701772.jpeg" alt="Casey Flinn, left, is congratulated by Comfort Heating &amp; Air's Tucker Hilbert. Photo courtesy Comfort Heating &amp; Air" />
 <figcaption>Casey Flinn, left, is congratulated by Comfort Heating &amp; Air's Tucker Hilbert. Photo courtesy Comfort Heating &amp; Air</figcaption>
 </figure>Comfort Heating &amp; Air and Mokas Coffee are proud to announce the 2020 Salute to Service winner: Casey Flinn. Last fall/winter a weekly contest on Salina Post honored local police officers, military members, medical professionals, and first responders in our community.Each week a winner was selected and that winner received a $50 gift card to Mokas Coffee in Salina. Then, all the weekly winners were entered in a random drawing. Out of the qualifiers Casey Flinn was chosen to receive a prize package that includes: an overnight stay at the Homewood Suites in downtown Salina, gift cards from Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro, Mokas Coffee, and more. Comfort Heating &amp; Air donated $500 to the Isis Shrine Temple in his honor. The Isis Shriners support Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals that serve families regardless of their ability to pay. Congratulations to all of the 2020 Salute to Service nominees and thank you for your service from Mokas Coffee, Salina Post, and Comfort Heating &amp; Air, the company that cares!

Comfort and Mokas: Casey Flinn 2020 Salute to Service winner

This United States Air Force C-32 made a stop at the Salina Regional Airport. 

According to the United States Air Force <a href="https://www.af.mil/">website</a>,&nbsp; C-32s "provide safe, comfortable and reliable transportation for U.S. leaders to locations around the world. The primary customers are the vice president, using the distinctive call sign 'Air Force Two,' the first lady, and members of the Cabinet and Congress." From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinaairportauthority/">Salina Airport Authority</a> Facebook page:

This United States Air Force C-32 made a stop at the Salina Regional Airport. According to the United States Air Force <a href="https://www.af.mil/">website</a>,&nbsp; C-32s "provide safe, comfortable and reliable transportation for U.S. leaders to locations around the world. The primary customers are the vice president, using the distinctive call sign 'Air Force Two,' the first lady, and members of the Cabinet and Congress." From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinaairportauthority/">Salina Airport Authority</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinaairportauthority%2Fphotos%2Fa.149611081752302%2F3733455453367829%2F&width=500&show_text=true&height=390&appId" width="500" height="390" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Air Force C-32 makes a stop at Salina Regional Airport

For the fourth consecutive year, Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA program asserted itself as the top team in the state. 

The KWU squad won 39 of a possible 41 medals and took first place in 15 of 18 events at the DECA state meet Jan. 29 in Hillsboro.

Eli Truhe, Taylor Lang and Ryann Kats led the way with three first-place medals, with Kats earning a pair of individual first-place finishes in Marketing Management and Sales Management Meeting. Kats also paired with Emily Monson to win the Business-to-Business Marketing event, while Truhe teamed with Austin Wiley for a pair of first-place finishes (Marketing/Communications and Sports and Entertainment Marketing). Truhe won the individual Travel and Tourism event as well, while Lang won both Human Resource Management and Retail Management in individual competition and paired with Dillon Harriger to win International Marketing.

“We lost a lot of our team to graduation,” said Dr. Trish Petak, DECA Coach and chair of the Department of Business and Accounting. “Our newcomers were key to our success and faced a steep challenge to acclimatize to the program, due to our practices being virtual. They worked incredibly hard and we could not have had this level of success without that work. The individuals who returned from previous teams performed phenomenally all year in practice, and continued to do so today. I’m proud of their dedication and desire to improve, even after all the success they’ve had during the previous three years.”

DECA is an organized business competition that either presents students with case studies in their chosen event or allows students to prepare a business-related presentation. Every case study challenges the individual or team with a recent, real-world problem, and the competitors then have a limited time to develop a presentation in response.

“DECA is a wonderful learning tool for the real world,” Dr. Petak said. “It provides experience presenting business-related ideas in an organized, professional manner and helps students practice soft skills that are important in every job field.”

The results from the state meet qualified the entire KWU team for the national DECA competition, slated for April 17–20 in Austin, Texas.

Below is a capsule of KWU results from the 2021 DECA state meet.

Entrepreneurship Operations: Cameron Becker, 1st

Fashion Merchandising and Marketing: Austin Wiley, 2nd

Financial Accounting: Matthew Whitsitt, 1st

Hotel and Lodging: Haylie Rodriguez, 1st; Maddy Beckett, 3rd

Human Resource Management: Taylor Lang, 1st; Lauren Flowers, 3rd

Managerial Accounting: Matthew Whitsitt, 1st

Marketing Management: Ryann Kats, 1st; Matthew Freriks, 3rd

Restaurant and Food Service Management: Karley Benson, 1st; Nathan Mercer, 2nd

Sales Management Meeting: Ryann Kats, 1st

Travel and Tourism: Eli Truhe, 1st; Emily Monson, 2nd

Business Ethics: Nathan Mercer and Matthew Whitsitt, 2nd; Maddy Beckett and Linda Himes, 3rd

Business-to-Business Marketing: Ryann Kats and Emily Monson, 1st&nbsp;

Event Planning: Karley Benson and Lauren Flowers, 1st; Maddy Beckett and Linda Himes, 2nd

International Marketing: Dillon Harriger and Taylor Lang, 1st

Marketing Communications: Eli Truhe and Austin Wiley, 1st; Karley Benson and Emily Monson, 2nd

Sports and Entertainment Marketing: Eli Truhe and Austin Wiley 1st; Cameron Becker and Matthew Freriks, 2nd; Lauren Flowers and Dillon Harriger, 3rd

Entrepreneurship - Starting a Business: Dillon Harriger, 2nd

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612576177045.jpeg" alt="Kansas Wesleyan's DECA squad. Photo courtesy KWU" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wesleyan's DECA squad. Photo courtesy KWU</figcaption>
 </figure>For the fourth consecutive year, Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA program asserted itself as the top team in the state. The KWU squad won 39 of a possible 41 medals and took first place in 15 of 18 events at the DECA state meet Jan. 29 in Hillsboro.Eli Truhe, Taylor Lang and Ryann Kats led the way with three first-place medals, with Kats earning a pair of individual first-place finishes in Marketing Management and Sales Management Meeting. Kats also paired with Emily Monson to win the Business-to-Business Marketing event, while Truhe teamed with Austin Wiley for a pair of first-place finishes (Marketing/Communications and Sports and Entertainment Marketing). Truhe won the individual Travel and Tourism event as well, while Lang won both Human Resource Management and Retail Management in individual competition and paired with Dillon Harriger to win International Marketing.“We lost a lot of our team to graduation,” said Dr. Trish Petak, DECA Coach and chair of the Department of Business and Accounting. “Our newcomers were key to our success and faced a steep challenge to acclimatize to the program, due to our practices being virtual. They worked incredibly hard and we could not have had this level of success without that work. The individuals who returned from previous teams performed phenomenally all year in practice, and continued to do so today. I’m proud of their dedication and desire to improve, even after all the success they’ve had during the previous three years.”DECA is an organized business competition that either presents students with case studies in their chosen event or allows students to prepare a business-related presentation. Every case study challenges the individual or team with a recent, real-world problem, and the competitors then have a limited time to develop a presentation in response.“DECA is a wonderful learning tool for the real world,” Dr. Petak said. “It provides experience presenting business-related ideas in an organized, professional manner and helps students practice soft skills that are important in every job field.”The results from the state meet qualified the entire KWU team for the national DECA competition, slated for April 17–20 in Austin, Texas.Below is a capsule of KWU results from the 2021 DECA state meet.Individual EventsEntrepreneurship Operations: Cameron Becker, 1stFashion Merchandising and Marketing: Austin Wiley, 2ndFinancial Accounting: Matthew Whitsitt, 1stHotel and Lodging: Haylie Rodriguez, 1st; Maddy Beckett, 3rdHuman Resource Management: Taylor Lang, 1st; Lauren Flowers, 3rdManagerial Accounting: Matthew Whitsitt, 1stMarketing Management: Ryann Kats, 1st; Matthew Freriks, 3rdRestaurant and Food Service Management: Karley Benson, 1st; Nathan Mercer, 2ndRetail Management: Taylor Lang, 1stSales Management Meeting: Ryann Kats, 1stTravel and Tourism: Eli Truhe, 1st; Emily Monson, 2ndTeam EventsBusiness Ethics: Nathan Mercer and Matthew Whitsitt, 2nd; Maddy Beckett and Linda Himes, 3rdBusiness-to-Business Marketing: Ryann Kats and Emily Monson, 1st&nbsp;Event Planning: Karley Benson and Lauren Flowers, 1st; Maddy Beckett and Linda Himes, 2ndInternational Marketing: Dillon Harriger and Taylor Lang, 1stMarketing Communications: Eli Truhe and Austin Wiley, 1st; Karley Benson and Emily Monson, 2ndSports and Entertainment Marketing: Eli Truhe and Austin Wiley 1st; Cameron Becker and Matthew Freriks, 2nd; Lauren Flowers and Dillon Harriger, 3rdPrepared PresentationEntrepreneurship - Starting a Business: Dillon Harriger, 2nd--<a href="http://kwu.edu">KWU</a>--

KWU DECA continues Kansas-wide domination

The Saline County Road and Bridge Department has reopened a section of Mentor Road after the completion of a cross-road drainage structure.

Mentor Road between South Woodward Road and South Cunningham Road has been reopened.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610509885546.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Saline County Road and Bridge Department has reopened a section of Mentor Road after the completion of a cross-road drainage structure.Mentor Road between South Woodward Road and South Cunningham Road has been reopened.

County reopens section of Mentor Road after drainage work

Work in a persons home and go with them to do daily things. Help out with their goals and dreams.

Paid time off, sick leave Holiday pay plus time and a half Great Benefits &amp; Paid training

OCCK, Inc. is a not-for-profit, mission-based organization that has been providing services to people with disabilities since 1970. With regional offices throughout North Central Kansas. Help others and getting paid to do so. Apply at&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.appone.com/Search/Search.aspx?ServerVar=occkinc.appone.com">https://www2.appone.com/Search/Search.aspx?ServerVar=occkinc.appone.com</a>&nbsp;.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535783410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Direct Support Professional$13/hour Full or Part time$14.5 6pm to 5am &amp; weekendsWork in a persons home and go with them to do daily things. Help out with their goals and dreams.Flexible schedulesPaycheck for life retirement (KPERS)Paid time off, sick leave Holiday pay plus time and a half Great Benefits &amp; Paid trainingFun, satisfying, rewarding work.CNA, CMA, HHA openings also!OCCK, Inc. is a not-for-profit, mission-based organization that has been providing services to people with disabilities since 1970. With regional offices throughout North Central Kansas. Help others and getting paid to do so. Apply at&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.appone.com/Search/Search.aspx?ServerVar=occkinc.appone.com">https://www2.appone.com/Search/Search.aspx?ServerVar=occkinc.appone.com</a>&nbsp;.&nbsp;&nbsp; EOE Drug testing required.

UPDATE: Multiple winter weather advisories issued for our area

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

We are saddened to announce that there have been two additional deaths due to COVID-19 reported since February 3; 95 members of our community have lost their lives to this deadly virus. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have 17 patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been 54 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on February 3, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,715.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 1,569 cases. At least 4,051 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>

If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless it has been at least five days since you received your results and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. Please refer to our&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObwYKNO1ToZ8a7SFcF703w-HQI2MuSkZffovEoIy93gTEHIi32GolUk1AHQaa2q9GTl-s0p8izTI5ndPvn1zKa0MUXV3BDGWWCO&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">FAQ Section</a>&nbsp;for additional questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObwQIiBtJba1e_JnMbvDZOXmoNPXb6OiJOvYahfSv85AqIybFO8Umhz3QdyMxXsrLPhjEgUV3WnS2OhsltAdYECwdXYF-YHOUFc&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 281,562 cases and 4,101 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 15 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=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObwgxnU3_75EjAFK_l9gOyUbv_rB9w54HFudhLI-sE87ByHpi2-t09BKcCZuGfYXJMDRcoZAFT04liQFtrNRlFtxkNkO6vQcVI0&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObw8vhBTIrhKih0eJt_aye4PO-6Kv7DN-wjyNeANWPDmFRoaOodkYN62H3TrE9j1Mwjb3CnofIHIZE=&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

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 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.We are saddened to announce that there have been two additional deaths due to COVID-19 reported since February 3; 95 members of our community have lost their lives to this deadly virus. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have 17 patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been 54 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on February 3, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,715. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 1,569 cases. At least 4,051 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> If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless it has been at least five days since you received your results and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. Please refer to our&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObwYKNO1ToZ8a7SFcF703w-HQI2MuSkZffovEoIy93gTEHIi32GolUk1AHQaa2q9GTl-s0p8izTI5ndPvn1zKa0MUXV3BDGWWCO&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">FAQ Section</a>&nbsp;for additional questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObwQIiBtJba1e_JnMbvDZOXmoNPXb6OiJOvYahfSv85AqIybFO8Umhz3QdyMxXsrLPhjEgUV3WnS2OhsltAdYECwdXYF-YHOUFc&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 281,562 cases and 4,101 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 15 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=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObwgxnU3_75EjAFK_l9gOyUbv_rB9w54HFudhLI-sE87ByHpi2-t09BKcCZuGfYXJMDRcoZAFT04liQFtrNRlFtxkNkO6vQcVI0&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Nyj-V8d-cPlrLk3ANroc9hZozK3M1VhwDdTao22DMqny_eJGgI05hDQdSaPqvObw8vhBTIrhKih0eJt_aye4PO-6Kv7DN-wjyNeANWPDmFRoaOodkYN62H3TrE9j1Mwjb3CnofIHIZE=&amp;c=vjBhX8QyPxqOOqEOSEAJuPq74ZGv375HydBFBHx9KQ2ag5NTDX0NVg==&amp;ch=b3Tuw86urNl-rQdmDBqh3yiJBbO8SHBxWT1ZoI6jljO4RQB-lT7gOg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County: 2 new deaths, 54 new cases of COVID-19

By SEENA GRESSIN Attorney, Division of Consumer &amp; Business Education, FTC

Some of you are celebrating your second COVID-19 vaccination with the giddy enthusiasm that’s usually reserved for weddings, new babies, and other life events. You’re posting a photo of your vaccination card on social media. Please — don’t do that! You could be inviting identity theft. 

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 </figure>By SEENA GRESSIN Attorney, Division of Consumer &amp; Business Education, FTCSome of you are celebrating your second COVID-19 vaccination with the giddy enthusiasm that’s usually reserved for weddings, new babies, and other life events. You’re posting a photo of your vaccination card on social media. Please — don’t do that! You could be inviting identity theft. Your vaccination card has information on it including your full name, date of birth, where you got your vaccine, and the dates you got it. When you post it to Facebook, Instagram, or to some Sticker with an orange background. It says, "I got my COVID-19 vaccine!"other social media platform, you may be handing valuable information over to someone who could use it for identity theft.Think of it this way — identity theft works like a puzzle, made up of pieces of personal information. You don’t want to give identity thieves the pieces they need to finish the picture. One of those pieces is your date of birth. For example, just by knowing your date and place of birth, scammers sometimes can guess most of the digits of your Social Security number. Once identity thieves have the pieces they need, they can use the information to open new accounts in your name, claim your tax refund for themselves, and engage in other identity theft.Want to share the news about your vaccination? How about a photo of a nifty adhesive bandage on the injection site? (You can show off your tattoos and deltoids at the same time.) Or, post a photo of your <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/downloads/sticker-covid-19-vaccinate-white.pdf">white</a> or <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/downloads/sticker-covid-19-vaccinate-orange.pdf">orange</a> vaccine sticker. The stickers are really cool.As for your social media networks, be sure that you’re not <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0033a-share-care">oversharing information</a> that can serve as a key to your PIN number or answer a security question. And, while you’re checking, check your privacy settings too. If you want to limit access to a small group of family and friends, make sure the settings are configured to avoid sharing information with strangers.Visit <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0272-how-keep-your-personal-information-secure">How to Keep Your Personal Information Secure</a> for more tips about protecting your information against identity thieves.The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2021/02/social-media-no-place-covid-19-vaccination-cards?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.&nbsp;