The Salina Police Department tonight announced the death of one of its K-9s, Karma.

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD/">Salina Police Department </a>Facebook page:

It is with sadness that we have to announce the passing of one of our K-9’s to kidney disease. Karma served an 8+ year career providing services to the citizens of Salina. She worked with K-9 Officers Gary Hanus, Kyle Tonniges and most recently Austin Baker. Karma began her service in 2012.

To Karma’s credit, she participated in hundreds of police activities yearly, including patrol enforcement, narcotics detection, community events, school and community demonstrations, tracking wanted and missing persons, and protecting the safety of others. In her career, she took 18-illegal guns off of the street and conducted over 15-successful tracks. She was also responsible for the seizure of over 200-pounds of marijuana, 9-pounds of methamphetamine, over 270-illegal prescription-narcotics, and over $420,000 in drug-related currency.

Her mere presence de-escalated numerous offenders from potential assaultive behavior against officers and citizens alike. Like many K-9 partners, she assured the safety of her handler-partners on a daily basis.

In the words of her longest and most recent handler, Officer Austin Baker, “Hardest day of my career today. I had to say goodbye to my K9 partner Karma. We recently found out Karma had kidney disease and was in kidney failure. Some may think she was just a dog, but I’ve spent thousands of hours with “just a dog.” I’ve spent more time with Karma in the last several years than I have with my family. I loved working with Karma and it will be a difficult transition for me to work without her!”

Karma’s End of Watch (EOW) was January 9th, 2021.

Rest in Peace Karma and much appreciation and love for your service to our community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610331754811.jpeg" alt="K-9 Karma. Photo courtesy SPD" />
 <figcaption>K-9 Karma. Photo courtesy SPD</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Police Department tonight announced the death of one of its K-9s, Karma.From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD/">Salina Police Department </a>Facebook page:It is with sadness that we have to announce the passing of one of our K-9’s to kidney disease. Karma served an 8+ year career providing services to the citizens of Salina. She worked with K-9 Officers Gary Hanus, Kyle Tonniges and most recently Austin Baker. Karma began her service in 2012. To Karma’s credit, she participated in hundreds of police activities yearly, including patrol enforcement, narcotics detection, community events, school and community demonstrations, tracking wanted and missing persons, and protecting the safety of others. In her career, she took 18-illegal guns off of the street and conducted over 15-successful tracks. She was also responsible for the seizure of over 200-pounds of marijuana, 9-pounds of methamphetamine, over 270-illegal prescription-narcotics, and over $420,000 in drug-related currency. Her mere presence de-escalated numerous offenders from potential assaultive behavior against officers and citizens alike. Like many K-9 partners, she assured the safety of her handler-partners on a daily basis. In the words of her longest and most recent handler, Officer Austin Baker, “Hardest day of my career today. I had to say goodbye to my K9 partner Karma. We recently found out Karma had kidney disease and was in kidney failure. Some may think she was just a dog, but I’ve spent thousands of hours with “just a dog.” I’ve spent more time with Karma in the last several years than I have with my family. I loved working with Karma and it will be a difficult transition for me to work without her!”Karma’s End of Watch (EOW) was January 9th, 2021. Rest in Peace Karma and much appreciation and love for your service to our community.

Salina Police Department K-9 dies after long, successful career

UPDATE: The story has been updated as a proclamation request has been added to the agenda.

A purchase request from the fire department, two executive sessions, and an organizational meeting are on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, city study sessions and commission meetings will take place via Zoom until further notice. You can view the meetings at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

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

If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak.

Citizens can also send written comments or questions to commissioners via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>. The city requests that in order for commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, citizens should email their comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meeting.

The regular commission meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. A time for public comment is scheduled near the beginning of the meeting.

Commissioners are scheduled to consider authorizing the Salina Fire Department to purchase a new ambulance chassis and one Stryker Power cot and to have the patient module of an existing ambulance refurbished and remounted. The cost would be $183,600, according to commission meeting packet information.

The fire department tries to replace ambulances once they reach 100,000 miles and has an established replacement schedule for its ambulance fleet, the meeting packet information noted. 

The request before the commission "involves removing the patient module from the rear of an existing ambulance, completely refurbishing it and then remounting it on a new chassis. This can be done at approximately 35-40% less than a new ambulance will cost," according to the meeting packet information.

Additionally, commissioners are being asked to proclaim Jan. 18 as&nbsp;Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Day in the City of Salina. Ramona Malone, New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church minister of music, is scheduled to read the proclamation.

The agenda also calls for comments from Mayor Mike Hoppock at the end of his mayoral term, after which, the regular meeting will be recessed and an organizational meeting will be conducted. During the organizational meeting, commissioners will vote on a new mayor and vice mayor.

Once the organizational meeting is complete, the regular meeting is scheduled to resume so that commissioners can move into the following two executive sessions.

●To discuss the subject of the status of a personnel matter under the city manager's purview, with possible action to follow.

●To discuss the city manager's performance evaluation, with possible action to follow.

To see the entire Salina City Commission meeting packet for Monday (18 pages), <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?startid=177362&amp;&amp;dbid=0&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

UPDATE: The story has been updated as a proclamation request has been added to the agenda.A purchase request from the fire department, two executive sessions, and an organizational meeting are on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.About city meetingsBecause of the COVID-19 pandemic, city study sessions and commission meetings will take place via Zoom until further notice. You can view the meetings at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak.Citizens can also send written comments or questions to commissioners via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>. The city requests that in order for commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, citizens should email their comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608522466779.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Regular meetingThe regular commission meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. A time for public comment is scheduled near the beginning of the meeting.Commissioners are scheduled to consider authorizing the Salina Fire Department to purchase a new ambulance chassis and one Stryker Power cot and to have the patient module of an existing ambulance refurbished and remounted. The cost would be $183,600, according to commission meeting packet information.The fire department tries to replace ambulances once they reach 100,000 miles and has an established replacement schedule for its ambulance fleet, the meeting packet information noted. The request before the commission "involves removing the patient module from the rear of an existing ambulance, completely refurbishing it and then remounting it on a new chassis. This can be done at approximately 35-40% less than a new ambulance will cost," according to the meeting packet information.Additionally, commissioners are being asked to proclaim Jan. 18 as&nbsp;Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Day in the City of Salina. Ramona Malone, New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church minister of music, is scheduled to read the proclamation.The agenda also calls for comments from Mayor Mike Hoppock at the end of his mayoral term, after which, the regular meeting will be recessed and an organizational meeting will be conducted. During the organizational meeting, commissioners will vote on a new mayor and vice mayor.Once the organizational meeting is complete, the regular meeting is scheduled to resume so that commissioners can move into the following two executive sessions.●To discuss the subject of the status of a personnel matter under the city manager's purview, with possible action to follow.●To discuss the city manager's performance evaluation, with possible action to follow.To see the entire Salina City Commission meeting packet for Monday (18 pages), <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?startid=177362&amp;&amp;dbid=0&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

UPDATE: SFD purchase request, 2 executive sessions, vote for new mayor on city agenda

See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:

See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159223758558140%2F&width=500&show_text=true&height=658&appId" width="500" height="658" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

See what's new at the Salina Public Library

A country singer is teaming with a local bar and grill to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina.

Sylvia, Kan., native Jake Gill is scheduled to perform on the patio of Chuck's Bar, 600 North Santa Fe Avenue, beginning at 2 p.m. on Jan. 17. According to a news release from Gill, there is no cost for admission, however donations will be accepted for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina.

“I am excited to be a part of such a great event for a Kansas town,” Gill said. “We are anxious to continue to our mission in aiding the many great non profit organizations in my home state and the Winter Jam Concert Series which provides a safe outdoor environment for families to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while getting to hear great music from our friends.”

Gill noted that he will be joined at the event by St. John, Kan., native Derek Staub, a rising star in the Midwest country music scene, and a few other acts.

During the concert, there also will be an opportunity to sign up to win one of six pairs of tickets to Heartland Stampede, where attendees can see Luke Combs, Toby Keith, Cody Johnson, and many more, the release noted.

After a whirlwind tour across the United States in 2019 and 2020, Gill has much to celebrate as his much anticipated fifth studio album, Maverick in Me, has landed his sixth song on the Music Row Breakout Country Singles chart. Baby I'm On It continues to be a crowd favorite. The project features 10 news songs and will feature up to four radio releases. Gill showed no signs of slowing down with the first of 12 shows in his new venue home in Nashville, the famed Hard Rock Cafe. His tour this last season took the singer to more than 37 states and 180 shows, according to the news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610293129435.jpeg" alt="Jake Gill. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jake Gill. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A country singer is teaming with a local bar and grill to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina.Sylvia, Kan., native Jake Gill is scheduled to perform on the patio of Chuck's Bar, 600 North Santa Fe Avenue, beginning at 2 p.m. on Jan. 17. According to a news release from Gill, there is no cost for admission, however donations will be accepted for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina.“I am excited to be a part of such a great event for a Kansas town,” Gill said. “We are anxious to continue to our mission in aiding the many great non profit organizations in my home state and the Winter Jam Concert Series which provides a safe outdoor environment for families to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while getting to hear great music from our friends.”Gill noted that he will be joined at the event by St. John, Kan., native Derek Staub, a rising star in the Midwest country music scene, and a few other acts.During the concert, there also will be an opportunity to sign up to win one of six pairs of tickets to Heartland Stampede, where attendees can see Luke Combs, Toby Keith, Cody Johnson, and many more, the release noted.After a whirlwind tour across the United States in 2019 and 2020, Gill has much to celebrate as his much anticipated fifth studio album, Maverick in Me, has landed his sixth song on the Music Row Breakout Country Singles chart. Baby I'm On It continues to be a crowd favorite. The project features 10 news songs and will feature up to four radio releases. Gill showed no signs of slowing down with the first of 12 shows in his new venue home in Nashville, the famed Hard Rock Cafe. His tour this last season took the singer to more than 37 states and 180 shows, according to the news release.

Country singer Gill to perform BBBS benefit at Chuck's

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

“Connecting with consumers.” That’s a goal of many food companies, but today we’ll meet a young beef producer who has taken this idea to heart. She finds that delivering beef and communicating with families is the most rewarding part of her job.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lettie McKinney is the founder of MC- Meat Company, which provides homegrown beef directly from the ranch to the consumer. The family brand, based on their last name, is pronounced “M C Bar.”&nbsp;

The McKinneys have farmed and raised cattle for decades in southwest Kansas since Lettie’s ancestors settled there in the 1920s. “My great-grandparents lived through the Dust Bowl and the Depression,” Lettie said. “We’re still here by the grace of God.” Today, she is part of the fourth generation on the ranch.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lettie attended school in the nearby town of Manter and then Stanton County High School in Johnson. She earned her animal science degree at Oklahoma State University and then graduated from the Ranch Management program at Texas Christian University. Lettie worked at feedyards in Texas and Kansas before moving back home.&nbsp;

Today the McKinneys’ operation is evenly divided between crop farming and beef production, with about 150 momma cows. &nbsp;

In 2009, Lettie’s father Brad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. After surgery, it was found to be benign, but by a decade later, the disease had returned. Lettie moved back to the ranch to help.&nbsp;

She had already been thinking about how to generate more value from the family’s beef production. In 2018, she launched MC- Meat Company. This was a way of selling their beef direct to consumers.&nbsp;

“Every ounce of beef we sell is from a calf that is born and raised on our ranch,” Lettie said. “They don’t leave the place until we take them to be processed.” That creates a very direct supply chain and the opportunity for high quality control.&nbsp;

The McKinneys have upgraded their Hereford and Red Angus cattle, using Gardiner Angus bulls and others plus premium Japanese breeds. The finished product, called Brad’s Beef, is available at a couple of local grocery outlets, but is primarily sold online.&nbsp;

Brad’s Beef is available in the form of KC strip steaks, ribeyes, short ribs, farm-fresh ground beef, and more. Packages can include the ground beef bundle or what’s called the picnic basket. It is also possible to sign up in advance for shares such as a half, quarter, or full side of beef. The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mcbarmeatco.com/" target="_blank">MC- website</a>&nbsp;offers hats and bags with the family brand, plus other products such as spices and rubs.&nbsp;

Along with placing orders online, customers can reach Lettie through social media. “People can call or message or text me, I’m on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/mcbarmeatco" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcbarmeatco/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,” Lettie said.&nbsp;

Of course, internet service is a game-changer for a business like this. “Pioneer Communications is our provider, and they are working on getting fiber optic cable to us,” Lettie said. Good broadband access opens up a world of opportunities for rural businesses. “The sky’s the limit,” Lettie said. “I can be in small town Kansas but service New York, New York.”&nbsp;

Delivery service is also vital. “Our UPS man is a lifesaver,” Lettie said. “I’ve been known to track him down in town.” MC- can pack and ship their beef by two-day air.&nbsp;

MC- Meat Company has shipped as far away as California and Wisconsin. Lettie also personally delivers beef in the region, and that is what she finds most rewarding.&nbsp;

“I like delivering beef,” Lettie said. “It’s nice to go into the customer’s home and share with the family. That’s something that I will always cherish.”&nbsp;

She said she likes sharing her family’s story and being transparent with consumers. “Just like them, I want safe, high-quality food,” Lettie said. It’s great to see this message come from near the rural community of Manter, population 171 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

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

Connecting with consumers. That’s not just a slogan, it is a way of life for Lettie McKinney at MC- Meat Company. She’s making a difference by building consumer connections.

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 University“Connecting with consumers.” That’s a goal of many food companies, but today we’ll meet a young beef producer who has taken this idea to heart. She finds that delivering beef and communicating with families is the most rewarding part of her job.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lettie McKinney is the founder of MC- Meat Company, which provides homegrown beef directly from the ranch to the consumer. The family brand, based on their last name, is pronounced “M C Bar.”&nbsp;The McKinneys have farmed and raised cattle for decades in southwest Kansas since Lettie’s ancestors settled there in the 1920s. “My great-grandparents lived through the Dust Bowl and the Depression,” Lettie said. “We’re still here by the grace of God.” Today, she is part of the fourth generation on the ranch.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610127367263.jpeg" alt="Lettie McKinney. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Lettie McKinney. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>Lettie attended school in the nearby town of Manter and then Stanton County High School in Johnson. She earned her animal science degree at Oklahoma State University and then graduated from the Ranch Management program at Texas Christian University. Lettie worked at feedyards in Texas and Kansas before moving back home.&nbsp;Today the McKinneys’ operation is evenly divided between crop farming and beef production, with about 150 momma cows. &nbsp;In 2009, Lettie’s father Brad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. After surgery, it was found to be benign, but by a decade later, the disease had returned. Lettie moved back to the ranch to help.&nbsp;She had already been thinking about how to generate more value from the family’s beef production. In 2018, she launched MC- Meat Company. This was a way of selling their beef direct to consumers.&nbsp;“Every ounce of beef we sell is from a calf that is born and raised on our ranch,” Lettie said. “They don’t leave the place until we take them to be processed.” That creates a very direct supply chain and the opportunity for high quality control.&nbsp;The McKinneys have upgraded their Hereford and Red Angus cattle, using Gardiner Angus bulls and others plus premium Japanese breeds. The finished product, called Brad’s Beef, is available at a couple of local grocery outlets, but is primarily sold online.&nbsp;Brad’s Beef is available in the form of KC strip steaks, ribeyes, short ribs, farm-fresh ground beef, and more. Packages can include the ground beef bundle or what’s called the picnic basket. It is also possible to sign up in advance for shares such as a half, quarter, or full side of beef. The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mcbarmeatco.com/" target="_blank">MC- website</a>&nbsp;offers hats and bags with the family brand, plus other products such as spices and rubs.&nbsp;Along with placing orders online, customers can reach Lettie through social media. “People can call or message or text me, I’m on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/mcbarmeatco" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcbarmeatco/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,” Lettie said.&nbsp;Of course, internet service is a game-changer for a business like this. “Pioneer Communications is our provider, and they are working on getting fiber optic cable to us,” Lettie said. Good broadband access opens up a world of opportunities for rural businesses. “The sky’s the limit,” Lettie said. “I can be in small town Kansas but service New York, New York.”&nbsp;Delivery service is also vital. “Our UPS man is a lifesaver,” Lettie said. “I’ve been known to track him down in town.” MC- can pack and ship their beef by two-day air.&nbsp;MC- Meat Company has shipped as far away as California and Wisconsin. Lettie also personally delivers beef in the region, and that is what she finds most rewarding.&nbsp;“I like delivering beef,” Lettie said. “It’s nice to go into the customer’s home and share with the family. That’s something that I will always cherish.”&nbsp;She said she likes sharing her family’s story and being transparent with consumers. “Just like them, I want safe, high-quality food,” Lettie said. It’s great to see this message come from near the rural community of Manter, population 171 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mcbarmeatco.com/" target="_blank">www.mcbarmeatco.com</a>.&nbsp;Connecting with consumers. That’s not just a slogan, it is a way of life for Lettie McKinney at MC- Meat Company. She’s making a difference by building consumer connections.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: Lettie McKinney, MC- Meat Company

LOGAN – The Dane G. Hansen Foundation has announced Rhonda Goddard as the newest member of the Board of Trustees, effective immediately.

Goddard is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.B.A. in Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant. She is currently employed as the Chief Financial Officer for Nex-tech. Through her twenty-seven years of experience in telecommunications, she has helped the company increase its assets and its broadband network from dial-up to fiber broadband service across a ten thousand square mile area of western and central Kansas.&nbsp;

In addition to her professional skills, her volunteer work is vast, including serving as Vice president of the Morland Community Foundation, as a board member and treasurer of the Graham County Hospital, founder and president of Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, a member of the board of Osborne Industries and a board member of the Communication Coalition of Kansas.&nbsp;

“I am a passionate supporter of the rural way of life,” Goddard said. “The mission of the Hansen Foundation is close to my heart, and I look forward to working with the other Trustees and the staff to continue creating opportunities for Northwest Kansas to thrive.”

Goddard grew up in rural Morland, the great granddaughter of Irish immigrants.&nbsp; She and her husband John raised their two sons, Lucas and Cordell on the family ranch near Penokee.&nbsp; Farming and ranching since 1884, the family also own and operate a small equipment sales and manufacturing business, started in the late 1950’s.&nbsp; Believing strongly in the rewards of hard work, she shares with her ancestors and her family a vision to foster a better quality of life across the area.&nbsp;

Goddard is a private pilot and enjoys horseback riding and walking in her spare time.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Goddard’s appointment follows the retirement of former Trustee, Doyle Fair, who served the Foundation for 32 years.&nbsp; She joins current board members, Doug Albin, WaKeeney; Carol Bales, Logan; Warren Gfeller, Russell; Robert Hartman, Hays; Cy Moyer, Phillipsburg; and Brien Stockman, Logan.

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation was established in 1965 with an estate gift from Dane G. Hansen. Based in Mr. Hansen’s hometown of Logan, the Foundation has been providing scholarships and grants to support growth and prosperity to the residents of Northwest Kansas for 55 years. The Foundation has a primary service area that includes the 26 most northwest counties in the state.

LOGAN – The Dane G. Hansen Foundation has announced Rhonda Goddard as the newest member of the Board of Trustees, effective immediately.Goddard is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.B.A. in Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant. She is currently employed as the Chief Financial Officer for Nex-tech. Through her twenty-seven years of experience in telecommunications, she has helped the company increase its assets and its broadband network from dial-up to fiber broadband service across a ten thousand square mile area of western and central Kansas.&nbsp;In addition to her professional skills, her volunteer work is vast, including serving as Vice president of the Morland Community Foundation, as a board member and treasurer of the Graham County Hospital, founder and president of Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, a member of the board of Osborne Industries and a board member of the Communication Coalition of Kansas.&nbsp;“I am a passionate supporter of the rural way of life,” Goddard said. “The mission of the Hansen Foundation is close to my heart, and I look forward to working with the other Trustees and the staff to continue creating opportunities for Northwest Kansas to thrive.”Goddard grew up in rural Morland, the great granddaughter of Irish immigrants.&nbsp; She and her husband John raised their two sons, Lucas and Cordell on the family ranch near Penokee.&nbsp; Farming and ranching since 1884, the family also own and operate a small equipment sales and manufacturing business, started in the late 1950’s.&nbsp; Believing strongly in the rewards of hard work, she shares with her ancestors and her family a vision to foster a better quality of life across the area.&nbsp;Goddard is a private pilot and enjoys horseback riding and walking in her spare time.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Goddard’s appointment follows the retirement of former Trustee, Doyle Fair, who served the Foundation for 32 years.&nbsp; She joins current board members, Doug Albin, WaKeeney; Carol Bales, Logan; Warren Gfeller, Russell; Robert Hartman, Hays; Cy Moyer, Phillipsburg; and Brien Stockman, Logan.The Dane G. Hansen Foundation was established in 1965 with an estate gift from Dane G. Hansen. Based in Mr. Hansen’s hometown of Logan, the Foundation has been providing scholarships and grants to support growth and prosperity to the residents of Northwest Kansas for 55 years. The Foundation has a primary service area that includes the 26 most northwest counties in the state.

Goddard joins Dane G. Hansen Foundation board

Today is Sunday, Jan. 10, the 10th day of 2021. There are 355 days left in the year. 

On Jan. 10, 1776, Thomas Paine anonymously published his influential pamphlet, "Common Sense," which argued for American independence from British rule. 

In 1860, the Pemberton Mill in Lawrence, Massachusetts, collapsed and caught fire, killing up to 145 people, mostly female workers from Scotland and Ireland. 

In 1861, Florida became the third state to secede from the Union. 

In 1863, the London Underground had its beginnings as the Metropolitan, the world's first underground passenger railway, opened to the public with service between Paddington and Farringdon Street. 

In 1901, the Spindletop oil field in Beaumont, Texas, produced the Lucas Gusher, heralding the start of the Texas oil boom.

In 1917, legendary Western frontiersman and showman William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody died at his sister's home in Denver at age 70. 

In 1920, the League of Nations was established as the Treaty of Versailles went into effect. 

In 1948, future country music star Loretta Lynn (nee Webb) married Oliver "Mooney" Lynn; she was 15 at the time, he was 21 (the marriage lasted until Oliver Lynn's death in 1996).

In 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson, in his State of the Union address, asked Congress to impose a surcharge on both corporate and individual income taxes to help pay for his "Great Society" programs as well as the war in Vietnam. That same day, Massachusetts Republican Edward W. Brooke, the first Black person elected to the U.S. Senate by popular vote, took his seat. 

In 1984, the United States and the Vatican established full diplomatic relations for the first time in more than a century. 

In 2002, Marines began flying hundreds of al-Qaida prisoners in Afghanistan to a U.S. base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. 

In 2007, President George W. Bush said he took responsibility for any mistakes in Iraq and announced an increase in U.S. troops there to quell violence. The Democratic-controlled House voted 315-116 to increase the federal minimum wage to $7.25 an hour.

In 2016, David Bowie, the chameleon-like star who transformed the sound — and the look — of rock with his audacious creativity and his sexually ambiguous makeup and costumes, died in New York. 

Ten years ago: The nation got its first look at Jared Loughner, the accused assailant of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, as a federal judge in Phoenix ordered the 22-year-old suspect held without bail. A judge in Austin, Texas, ordered former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay to serve three years in prison for his money laundering conviction. (DeLay's conviction was ultimately overturned.) No. 1 Auburn beat No. 2 Oregon 22-19 on a last-second field goal to win the BCS national title. Singer Margaret Whiting, 86, died in Englewood, New Jersey.

Five years ago: French President Francois Hollande and other dignitaries held a special ceremony to honor those killed in Islamic extremist attacks around Paris in 2015. At the Golden Globes, "The Revenant" won best motion picture drama while "The Martian" was recognized as best comedy film.

One year ago: The Trump administration announced a new wave of sanctions on Iran following the missile strikes earlier in the week from Iran against U.S. bases in Iraq. In the first of a series of contentious votes on gun legislation, state lawmakers in Virginia voted to ban guns at the state Capitol; Democrats held a full majority at the state house for the first time in a generation. Outfielder Mookie Betts agreed to a $27 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, the largest-ever one-year salary for a player eligible for arbitration; he would end up being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers ahead of the coronavirus-shortened season.

Today's Birthdays: Opera singer Sherrill Milnes is 86. Rock singer-musician Ronnie Hawkins is 86. Movie director Walter Hill is 81. Actor William Sanderson is 77. Singer Rod Stewart is 76. Rock singer-musician Donald Fagen (Steely Dan) is 73. Boxing Hall of Famer and entrepreneur George Foreman is 72. Roots rock singer Alejandro Escovedo is 70. Rock musician Scott Thurston (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers) is 69. Singer Pat Benatar is 68. Hall of Fame race car driver and team owner Bobby Rahal is 68. Rock musician Michael Schenker is 66. Singer Shawn Colvin is 65. Rock singer-musician Curt Kirkwood (Meat Puppets) is 62. Actor Evan Handler is 60. Rock singer Brad Roberts (Crash Test Dummies) is 57. Actor Trini Alvarado is 54. Rock singer Brent Smith (Shinedown) is 43. Rapper Chris Smith (Kris Kross) is 42. Actor Sarah Shahi is 41. Presidential adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner is 40. American roots singer Valerie June is 39.

<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 Sunday, Jan. 10, the 10th day of 2021. There are 355 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Jan. 10, 1776, Thomas Paine anonymously published his influential pamphlet, "Common Sense," which argued for American independence from British rule. On this date: In 1860, the Pemberton Mill in Lawrence, Massachusetts, collapsed and caught fire, killing up to 145 people, mostly female workers from Scotland and Ireland. In 1861, Florida became the third state to secede from the Union. In 1863, the London Underground had its beginnings as the Metropolitan, the world's first underground passenger railway, opened to the public with service between Paddington and Farringdon Street. In 1901, the Spindletop oil field in Beaumont, Texas, produced the Lucas Gusher, heralding the start of the Texas oil boom.In 1917, legendary Western frontiersman and showman William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody died at his sister's home in Denver at age 70. In 1920, the League of Nations was established as the Treaty of Versailles went into effect. In 1948, future country music star Loretta Lynn (nee Webb) married Oliver "Mooney" Lynn; she was 15 at the time, he was 21 (the marriage lasted until Oliver Lynn's death in 1996).In 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson, in his State of the Union address, asked Congress to impose a surcharge on both corporate and individual income taxes to help pay for his "Great Society" programs as well as the war in Vietnam. That same day, Massachusetts Republican Edward W. Brooke, the first Black person elected to the U.S. Senate by popular vote, took his seat. In 1984, the United States and the Vatican established full diplomatic relations for the first time in more than a century. In 2002, Marines began flying hundreds of al-Qaida prisoners in Afghanistan to a U.S. base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. In 2007, President George W. Bush said he took responsibility for any mistakes in Iraq and announced an increase in U.S. troops there to quell violence. The Democratic-controlled House voted 315-116 to increase the federal minimum wage to $7.25 an hour.In 2016, David Bowie, the chameleon-like star who transformed the sound — and the look — of rock with his audacious creativity and his sexually ambiguous makeup and costumes, died in New York. Ten years ago: The nation got its first look at Jared Loughner, the accused assailant of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, as a federal judge in Phoenix ordered the 22-year-old suspect held without bail. A judge in Austin, Texas, ordered former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay to serve three years in prison for his money laundering conviction. (DeLay's conviction was ultimately overturned.) No. 1 Auburn beat No. 2 Oregon 22-19 on a last-second field goal to win the BCS national title. Singer Margaret Whiting, 86, died in Englewood, New Jersey.Five years ago: French President Francois Hollande and other dignitaries held a special ceremony to honor those killed in Islamic extremist attacks around Paris in 2015. At the Golden Globes, "The Revenant" won best motion picture drama while "The Martian" was recognized as best comedy film.One year ago: The Trump administration announced a new wave of sanctions on Iran following the missile strikes earlier in the week from Iran against U.S. bases in Iraq. In the first of a series of contentious votes on gun legislation, state lawmakers in Virginia voted to ban guns at the state Capitol; Democrats held a full majority at the state house for the first time in a generation. Outfielder Mookie Betts agreed to a $27 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, the largest-ever one-year salary for a player eligible for arbitration; he would end up being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers ahead of the coronavirus-shortened season.Today's Birthdays: Opera singer Sherrill Milnes is 86. Rock singer-musician Ronnie Hawkins is 86. Movie director Walter Hill is 81. Actor William Sanderson is 77. Singer Rod Stewart is 76. Rock singer-musician Donald Fagen (Steely Dan) is 73. Boxing Hall of Famer and entrepreneur George Foreman is 72. Roots rock singer Alejandro Escovedo is 70. Rock musician Scott Thurston (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers) is 69. Singer Pat Benatar is 68. Hall of Fame race car driver and team owner Bobby Rahal is 68. Rock musician Michael Schenker is 66. Singer Shawn Colvin is 65. Rock singer-musician Curt Kirkwood (Meat Puppets) is 62. Actor Evan Handler is 60. Rock singer Brad Roberts (Crash Test Dummies) is 57. Actor Trini Alvarado is 54. Rock singer Brent Smith (Shinedown) is 43. Rapper Chris Smith (Kris Kross) is 42. Actor Sarah Shahi is 41. Presidential adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner is 40. American roots singer Valerie June is 39.

Today in History -- Jan. 10

CLAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Loretta L. Jackson, 83, Junction City, was south bound on Kansas 15 five miles west of Wakefield.

The driver attempted to make left turn, failed to yield right of way to a northbound 2019 Chevy Silverado driven by Vernon H. McGee, 63, of Clay Center. The Silverado overturned and came rest east shoulder.

EMS transported&nbsp;McGee to Clay County Medical Center. The KHP did not report Jackson was transported for treatment. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580399705885.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Loretta L. Jackson, 83, Junction City, was south bound on Kansas 15 five miles west of Wakefield.The driver attempted to make left turn, failed to yield right of way to a northbound 2019 Chevy Silverado driven by Vernon H. McGee, 63, of Clay Center. The Silverado overturned and came rest east shoulder.EMS transported&nbsp;McGee to Clay County Medical Center. The KHP did not report Jackson was transported for treatment. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after Clay County crash

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

OCCK, Inc. is seeking Direct Support Professionals. These individuals are residential in their supported Living Department in the Salina, Beloit, and Concordia locations. Full time with benefits, EOE, drug testing.

This person will be coordinating services and provide Independent living skills. Training will be provided as needed. Need to be a compassionate and a problem solver.

Must be at least 18 years old with strong oral and written communication skills, math skills and valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. Must have the ability to work with a diverse group of people in a team setting. Various shifts available.

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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535783410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK, Inc. is seeking Direct Support Professionals. These individuals are residential in their supported Living Department in the Salina, Beloit, and Concordia locations. Full time with benefits, EOE, drug testing.This person will be coordinating services and provide Independent living skills. Training will be provided as needed. Need to be a compassionate and a problem solver.Must be at least 18 years old with strong oral and written communication skills, math skills and valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. Must have the ability to work with a diverse group of people in a team setting. Various shifts available.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;

SPONSORED: OCCK wants YOU!

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) has announced its list of 21 places in Kansas to experience in 2021. 

The 21 locations across Kansas range from events, agritourism, history, outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. &nbsp;

Tourism Director, Bridgette Jobe expressed her enthusiasm for travel to resume. “Take this opportunity to explore your own state,” Jobe encourages. “While setting your New Year goals be sure to include travel as a part of that plan. There are many health benefits to taking a vacation, and Kansas has ample opportunities for travelers to safely experience these attractions.”&nbsp;

To learn more about these locations and travel safety guidelines, visit <a href="http://TravelKS.com">TravelKS.com</a>. &nbsp;

The 21 Places in Kansas to Experience in 2021

Santa Fe Trail-&nbsp;2021 marks the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail, and celebratory events will be happening across the state. Council Grove is commemorating the anniversary with a two-day celebration on July 16-17, 2021, including an old west gunslinger reenactment.&nbsp;

Cheyenne Bottoms&nbsp;Wildlife Area- The largest wetland in the interior U.S. It is a complex of marshy basins in a 41,000-acre lowland area containing the largest system of wetlands in Kansas, and the richest wetland feeding grounds in the central flyway. It is critical to the survival of many species. Some 320 bird species frequent Cheyenne Bottoms. &nbsp;

Kansas State Fair- Celebrate all things Kansas at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson, Sept. 10-19, 2021.&nbsp;

Historic Sites- Kansas is home to 16 state-owned historic sites and 27 national historic landmarks. Explore our state’s fascinating history from Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War, and Native American history, to frontier forts and historic trails. &nbsp;

Wine Trail- Before prohibition, Kansas combined with Missouri to form one of the largest grape-growing and winemaking regions in America. Kansas, because of the fertile soil, is the perfect home for select grape varieties. Kansas' landscape is dotted with a growing number of local wineries – some of which are nationally- and internationally-recognized.&nbsp;

Tanganyika Wildlife Park- Tanganyika, located in Goddard, is the only park in the U.S. with 10 interactive encounters where you can touch, feed, and even ride unique animal species.&nbsp;Handcrafted by Tanganyika keepers, choose from more than 15 experiences that will deepen your connection to some our nation’s rare and endangered species.&nbsp;

State Parks-&nbsp;There are 28 state parks spread across Kansas. Some are amid steep, timbered slopes ringed in bus-sized boulders. Others are where prairie grasses and wildflowers stretch towards 10-mile horizons. Enjoy the hundreds of miles available for hiking where the terrain, and views, will leave you breathless.&nbsp;

Eisenhower Presidential Museum- Recently renovated with new exhibits, experience Ike and Mamie’s story in their own words. The all-new 25,000 square-foot museum in Abilene boasts innovations in technological components and interactive exhibits guaranteed to engage audiences of all ages and learning styles.&nbsp;

Nicodemus-&nbsp;The oldest preserved black settlement west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can learn about Nicodemus&nbsp;history in the Visitor's Center and take a&nbsp;walking tour&nbsp;to view the historic buildings that represent the five pillars of the African American community: church, self-government, education, home and business.&nbsp;

Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area- Extraordinary events in Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area are forever woven into our nation’s fabric. In the nineteenth century, the nation turned its eyes to the Missouri-Kansas border where differing definitions of “freedom” collided, inciting and fueling a Civil War. The heritage area, located in Lawrence, focuses on three main themes: Shaping the Frontier, Kansas/Missouri Border War and the Enduring Struggle for Freedom.&nbsp;

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve- Nearly 11,000 acres of wide-open space, beautiful vistas, seasonal wildflowers, wildlife, a bison herd, and plenty of solitude. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the only unit in the National Park Service dedicated to preserving a rare remnant of tallgrass prairie. The preserve, located near Strong City, has more than 40 miles of hiking and nature trails.&nbsp;

Emma Chase Friday Nights- Enjoy live music every Friday night in Cottonwood Falls. Dance under the stars downtown with the historic Chase County Courthouse as your backdrop. &nbsp;

Field Station: Dinosaurs- A one-of-a-kind, prehistoric experience featuring&nbsp;more than 40 life-size, moving and realistic dinosaurs&nbsp;that are thrilling, educational and fun! Your expedition includes 10-acres of walking trails, more than 30 live shows, and games and activities conveniently located in Derby.&nbsp;

Drive-In Theatres-&nbsp;The nostalgic pastime of a drive-in theatre is no longer in the past. Kanopolis, Wichita, Dodge City and Kansas City each offer the perfect option for a fun, family night out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rock Formations-&nbsp;Explore some of the Sunflower State’s most unique natural wonders – From the Niobrara chalk formations of Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, Castle Rock and Monument Rocks, to the sandstone concretions of Rock City and the Dakota formations of Mushroom Rock State Park. &nbsp;

Brewery Tours- Hankering for hops? A growing number of Kansas breweries are popping up throughout the state, catering to those in search of fresh flavors and unique experiences. &nbsp;

Drive The Byways- Kansas has 12 byways – nine scenic, two of which are National Scenic Byways and three historic byways.&nbsp;Over a millennium, geologic shifts shaped the state's landscape to create a scenic backdrop for travelers.&nbsp;Follow the paths of great expedition teams and adventurers to see where history happened along Kansas' 12 distinctive byways.&nbsp;During the journey, visit museums and shops or enjoy local dining and lodging to create your own byway experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes- This Fort Scott museum highlights role models who demonstrate courage, compassion and respect, regardless of race, religion and creed. Through the Center’s unique project-based learning approach, students discover, develop and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes who have made a profound and positive impact on the course of history. By championing these Unsung Heroes, students, educators and communities discover their own power and responsibility to effect positive change in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Agritourism Business-&nbsp;Saddle up&nbsp;and experience the thrill&nbsp;<a></a>of a cattle drive or join in the harvest at a working Kansas farm. You'll have a new appreciation for the state's agricultural roots and the work involved in bringing food from&nbsp;farm to table. &nbsp;

Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas- Lucas is a folk-art lover’s paradise and home to some of the most whimsical attractions in Kansas. The World’s Largest Souvenir Travel Plate welcomes you to town, and traditional Post Rock limestone architecture enhances the aesthetic of local neighborhoods and downtown businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant-&nbsp;Held every three years, this special event commemorates the Great Peace Council of 1867 between the U.S. Government and the five Plains Tribes. The large-scale reenactment takes place in a natural amphitheater just east of Medicine Lodge in the beautiful Gyp Hills, near the original site of the council where the Medicine River and Elm Creek flow together. It compresses 300 years of history into two hours of entertainment and education, celebrating the diverse cultures of the native peoples, discoverers, explorers and settlers.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) has announced its list of 21 places in Kansas to experience in 2021. The 21 locations across Kansas range from events, agritourism, history, outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. &nbsp;Tourism Director, Bridgette Jobe expressed her enthusiasm for travel to resume. “Take this opportunity to explore your own state,” Jobe encourages. “While setting your New Year goals be sure to include travel as a part of that plan. There are many health benefits to taking a vacation, and Kansas has ample opportunities for travelers to safely experience these attractions.”&nbsp;To learn more about these locations and travel safety guidelines, visit <a href="http://TravelKS.com">TravelKS.com</a>. &nbsp;<h2>The 21 Places in Kansas to Experience in 2021</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610218372915.jpeg" alt="The site of Council Oak in Council Grove.&nbsp;Photo © Harland J. Schuster 2006, courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>The site of Council Oak in Council Grove.&nbsp;Photo © Harland J. Schuster 2006, courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Santa Fe Trail-&nbsp;2021 marks the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail, and celebratory events will be happening across the state. Council Grove is commemorating the anniversary with a two-day celebration on July 16-17, 2021, including an old west gunslinger reenactment.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610218905600.jpeg" alt="Cheyenne Bottoms. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Cheyenne Bottoms. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Cheyenne Bottoms&nbsp;Wildlife Area- The largest wetland in the interior U.S. It is a complex of marshy basins in a 41,000-acre lowland area containing the largest system of wetlands in Kansas, and the richest wetland feeding grounds in the central flyway. It is critical to the survival of many species. Some 320 bird species frequent Cheyenne Bottoms. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610219387522.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Fair. File photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Fair. File photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State Fair- Celebrate all things Kansas at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson, Sept. 10-19, 2021.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610219656721.jpeg" alt="An exhibit in the John Brown Museum&nbsp;in Osawatomie. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>An exhibit in the John Brown Museum&nbsp;in Osawatomie. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Historic Sites- Kansas is home to 16 state-owned historic sites and 27 national historic landmarks. Explore our state’s fascinating history from Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War, and Native American history, to frontier forts and historic trails. &nbsp;Wine Trail- Before prohibition, Kansas combined with Missouri to form one of the largest grape-growing and winemaking regions in America. Kansas, because of the fertile soil, is the perfect home for select grape varieties. Kansas' landscape is dotted with a growing number of local wineries – some of which are nationally- and internationally-recognized.&nbsp;Tanganyika Wildlife Park- Tanganyika, located in Goddard, is the only park in the U.S. with 10 interactive encounters where you can touch, feed, and even ride unique animal species.&nbsp;Handcrafted by Tanganyika keepers, choose from more than 15 experiences that will deepen your connection to some our nation’s rare and endangered species.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610220193229.jpeg" alt="Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>State Parks-&nbsp;There are 28 state parks spread across Kansas. Some are amid steep, timbered slopes ringed in bus-sized boulders. Others are where prairie grasses and wildflowers stretch towards 10-mile horizons. Enjoy the hundreds of miles available for hiking where the terrain, and views, will leave you breathless.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610220670363.jpeg" alt="An exhibit in the Eisenhower Presidential Museum in Abilene. Photo courtesy Eisenhower Presidential Library" />
 <figcaption>An exhibit in the Eisenhower Presidential Museum in Abilene. Photo courtesy Eisenhower Presidential Library</figcaption>
 </figure>Eisenhower Presidential Museum- Recently renovated with new exhibits, experience Ike and Mamie’s story in their own words. The all-new 25,000 square-foot museum in Abilene boasts innovations in technological components and interactive exhibits guaranteed to engage audiences of all ages and learning styles.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610294184910.jpeg" alt="The Nicodemus Visitor Center. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas (Note: It was brought to our attention that the original photo used here looked as though someone had drawn over the face of a Black man walking out of the building. That was not the case. The man was wearing what appeared to be a cowboy hat and glasses. The hat shaded the man's face and the glasses reflected the sunlight, causing the photo, at the size it appeared here, to look as though it had been doctored. To avoid further confusion, we have replaced the photo with another.)" />
 <figcaption>The Nicodemus Visitor Center. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas (Note: It was brought to our attention that the original photo used here looked as though someone had drawn over the face of a Black man walking out of the building. That was not the case. The man was wearing what appeared to be a cowboy hat and glasses. The hat shaded the man's face and the glasses reflected the sunlight, causing the photo, at the size it appeared here, to look as though it had been doctored. To avoid further confusion, we have replaced the photo with another.)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nicodemus-&nbsp;The oldest preserved black settlement west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can learn about Nicodemus&nbsp;history in the Visitor's Center and take a&nbsp;walking tour&nbsp;to view the historic buildings that represent the five pillars of the African American community: church, self-government, education, home and business.&nbsp;Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area- Extraordinary events in Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area are forever woven into our nation’s fabric. In the nineteenth century, the nation turned its eyes to the Missouri-Kansas border where differing definitions of “freedom” collided, inciting and fueling a Civil War. The heritage area, located in Lawrence, focuses on three main themes: Shaping the Frontier, Kansas/Missouri Border War and the Enduring Struggle for Freedom.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610221390510.jpeg" alt="Flinthills Backbone at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Flinthills Backbone at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve- Nearly 11,000 acres of wide-open space, beautiful vistas, seasonal wildflowers, wildlife, a bison herd, and plenty of solitude. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the only unit in the National Park Service dedicated to preserving a rare remnant of tallgrass prairie. The preserve, located near Strong City, has more than 40 miles of hiking and nature trails.&nbsp;Emma Chase Friday Nights- Enjoy live music every Friday night in Cottonwood Falls. Dance under the stars downtown with the historic Chase County Courthouse as your backdrop. &nbsp;Field Station: Dinosaurs- A one-of-a-kind, prehistoric experience featuring&nbsp;more than 40 life-size, moving and realistic dinosaurs&nbsp;that are thrilling, educational and fun! Your expedition includes 10-acres of walking trails, more than 30 live shows, and games and activities conveniently located in Derby.&nbsp;Drive-In Theatres-&nbsp;The nostalgic pastime of a drive-in theatre is no longer in the past. Kanopolis, Wichita, Dodge City and Kansas City each offer the perfect option for a fun, family night out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610221637293.jpeg" alt="Rock City. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Rock City. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Rock Formations-&nbsp;Explore some of the Sunflower State’s most unique natural wonders – From the Niobrara chalk formations of Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, Castle Rock and Monument Rocks, to the sandstone concretions of Rock City and the Dakota formations of Mushroom Rock State Park. &nbsp;Brewery Tours- Hankering for hops? A growing number of Kansas breweries are popping up throughout the state, catering to those in search of fresh flavors and unique experiences. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610222273672.jpeg" alt="Glacial Hills Byway. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Glacial Hills Byway. Photo courtesy Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Drive The Byways- Kansas has 12 byways – nine scenic, two of which are National Scenic Byways and three historic byways.&nbsp;Over a millennium, geologic shifts shaped the state's landscape to create a scenic backdrop for travelers.&nbsp;Follow the paths of great expedition teams and adventurers to see where history happened along Kansas' 12 distinctive byways.&nbsp;During the journey, visit museums and shops or enjoy local dining and lodging to create your own byway experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes- This Fort Scott museum highlights role models who demonstrate courage, compassion and respect, regardless of race, religion and creed. Through the Center’s unique project-based learning approach, students discover, develop and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes who have made a profound and positive impact on the course of history. By championing these Unsung Heroes, students, educators and communities discover their own power and responsibility to effect positive change in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Agritourism Business-&nbsp;Saddle up&nbsp;and experience the thrill&nbsp;<a></a>of a cattle drive or join in the harvest at a working Kansas farm. You'll have a new appreciation for the state's agricultural roots and the work involved in bringing food from&nbsp;farm to table. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610222914831.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy&nbsp;Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy&nbsp;Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas- Lucas is a folk-art lover’s paradise and home to some of the most whimsical attractions in Kansas. The World’s Largest Souvenir Travel Plate welcomes you to town, and traditional Post Rock limestone architecture enhances the aesthetic of local neighborhoods and downtown businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant-&nbsp;Held every three years, this special event commemorates the Great Peace Council of 1867 between the U.S. Government and the five Plains Tribes. The large-scale reenactment takes place in a natural amphitheater just east of Medicine Lodge in the beautiful Gyp Hills, near the original site of the council where the Medicine River and Elm Creek flow together. It compresses 300 years of history into two hours of entertainment and education, celebrating the diverse cultures of the native peoples, discoverers, explorers and settlers.

Kansas Tourism's 21 places in Kansas to experience in 2021

TOPEKA –&nbsp;&nbsp;As 2021 begins, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) offers 10 healthy habits to begin or to&nbsp;continue this new year!

Move more, sit less. Go for a walk, run, bike ride or try a new online fitness video this new year. Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can lift your spirits, make you feel better and provide some helpful structure to your days. Benefits of regular physical activity include maintained weight, reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduced high blood pressure and reduced arthritis pain. If you feel limited because of a chronic condition, consider participating in a&nbsp;Self-Management&nbsp;class such as Chronic Disease Self-Management, Walk With Ease or the National Diabetes Prevention Program.&nbsp;

Take a stretch break.&nbsp;If you are working from home, spending time watching tv or on the computer, it is important not to sit in the same place for too long and take a break from your screen. Get up and take a few minutes to&nbsp;stretch&nbsp;and move around every 30 minutes.

Eat the right foods.&nbsp;Good nutrition is key to good health. Everyone needs to get the right amount of healthy foods, like&nbsp;fruits&nbsp;and&nbsp;vegetables,&nbsp;lean protein, healthy fats and&nbsp;whole grains. Just remember fresh foods are healthier than processed, salty or sugary snacks. Learn more about how you can support the health and prosperity of Kansans by&nbsp;eating locally.

Rethink your drink.&nbsp;Skip high-sugar fruit juices, soda pop and alcoholic drinks to reduce calories and stay safe. Instead, prioritize drinking more water. You can even infuse your water with fruits, herbs and berries to switch it up each day. This simple change can reduce your risk of weight gain/obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney diseases, non-alcoholic liver disease, tooth decay and cavities and gout, a type of arthritis.

Quit smoking.&nbsp;You are never too old to quit. Benefits include: lowered risk for lung cancer and many other types of cancer; reduced risk for heart disease and stroke; reduced heart disease risk within 1 to 2 years of quitting; reduced respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath and more money you will save. To get started, call the Kansas Tobacco Quitline, 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free support. My Life, My Quit is a free resource available to Kansas teens to help them quit vaping. It is your life, and you should live it your way. Text "Start My Quit" to 855.891.9989 or call to talk with a coach who is ready to listen and cheer you on.&nbsp;My Life, My Quit website&nbsp;is always free and confidential, start your quit today.

Get screened for cancer.&nbsp;Regular screenings may find breast, cervical, colorectal (colon) and other cancers early, when treatment is likely to work best. Talk with your health care provider to see which ones you should have. Women, call Early Detection Works, 1-877-277-1368 to see if you qualify for support in paying for breast and cervical cancer screenings.

Keep kids healthy and safe -- talk to them about the dangers of vaping.&nbsp;Children develop their habits and behaviors at an early age and those habits can impact their life-long health. According to the National Youth Tobacco Survey data, e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among both high school and middle school youth. Vaping is putting young people at risk for developing lifelong nicotine addictions. My Life, My Quit is a free resource available to Kansas teens to help them quit vaping. It is your life, and you should live it your way. Text "Start My Quit" to 855.891.9989 or call to talk with a coach who is ready to listen and cheer you on.&nbsp;My Life, My Quit website&nbsp;is always free and confidential, start your quit today.

Get vaccinated.&nbsp;The best way to prevent common illnesses is to get and stay up-to-date on vaccinations. A complete immunization schedule for children and adults can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/immunize/schedule.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/immunize/schedule.htm</a>. For adolescent females, this includes getting vaccinated against HPV cancer.

Prioritize sleep. Make it your mission to get at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Lack of sleep can be a risk factor for many long-lasting (chronic) diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and depression.

Maintain mental health.&nbsp;Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being. While everybody has the blues, feels anxious or gets stressed at times, if you cannot shake these feelings, it is important to get help. Poor mental health increases the risk for long-lasting (chronic) physical conditions like heart disease, stroke and cancer. Our resiliency and ability to overcome adversity is key in creating and maintaining healthy habits. Learn more about the importance of&nbsp;building resiliency within your community.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;&nbsp;As 2021 begins, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) offers 10 healthy habits to begin or to&nbsp;continue this new year!Move more, sit less. Go for a walk, run, bike ride or try a new online fitness video this new year. Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can lift your spirits, make you feel better and provide some helpful structure to your days. Benefits of regular physical activity include maintained weight, reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduced high blood pressure and reduced arthritis pain. If you feel limited because of a chronic condition, consider participating in a&nbsp;Self-Management&nbsp;class such as Chronic Disease Self-Management, Walk With Ease or the National Diabetes Prevention Program.&nbsp;Take a stretch break.&nbsp;If you are working from home, spending time watching tv or on the computer, it is important not to sit in the same place for too long and take a break from your screen. Get up and take a few minutes to&nbsp;stretch&nbsp;and move around every 30 minutes.Eat the right foods.&nbsp;Good nutrition is key to good health. Everyone needs to get the right amount of healthy foods, like&nbsp;fruits&nbsp;and&nbsp;vegetables,&nbsp;lean protein, healthy fats and&nbsp;whole grains. Just remember fresh foods are healthier than processed, salty or sugary snacks. Learn more about how you can support the health and prosperity of Kansans by&nbsp;eating locally.Rethink your drink.&nbsp;Skip high-sugar fruit juices, soda pop and alcoholic drinks to reduce calories and stay safe. Instead, prioritize drinking more water. You can even infuse your water with fruits, herbs and berries to switch it up each day. This simple change can reduce your risk of weight gain/obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney diseases, non-alcoholic liver disease, tooth decay and cavities and gout, a type of arthritis.Quit smoking.&nbsp;You are never too old to quit. Benefits include: lowered risk for lung cancer and many other types of cancer; reduced risk for heart disease and stroke; reduced heart disease risk within 1 to 2 years of quitting; reduced respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath and more money you will save. To get started, call the Kansas Tobacco Quitline, 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free support. My Life, My Quit is a free resource available to Kansas teens to help them quit vaping. It is your life, and you should live it your way. Text "Start My Quit" to 855.891.9989 or call to talk with a coach who is ready to listen and cheer you on.&nbsp;My Life, My Quit website&nbsp;is always free and confidential, start your quit today.Get screened for cancer.&nbsp;Regular screenings may find breast, cervical, colorectal (colon) and other cancers early, when treatment is likely to work best. Talk with your health care provider to see which ones you should have. Women, call Early Detection Works, 1-877-277-1368 to see if you qualify for support in paying for breast and cervical cancer screenings.Keep kids healthy and safe -- talk to them about the dangers of vaping.&nbsp;Children develop their habits and behaviors at an early age and those habits can impact their life-long health. According to the National Youth Tobacco Survey data, e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among both high school and middle school youth. Vaping is putting young people at risk for developing lifelong nicotine addictions. My Life, My Quit is a free resource available to Kansas teens to help them quit vaping. It is your life, and you should live it your way. Text "Start My Quit" to 855.891.9989 or call to talk with a coach who is ready to listen and cheer you on.&nbsp;My Life, My Quit website&nbsp;is always free and confidential, start your quit today.Get vaccinated.&nbsp;The best way to prevent common illnesses is to get and stay up-to-date on vaccinations. A complete immunization schedule for children and adults can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/immunize/schedule.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/immunize/schedule.htm</a>. For adolescent females, this includes getting vaccinated against HPV cancer.Prioritize sleep. Make it your mission to get at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Lack of sleep can be a risk factor for many long-lasting (chronic) diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and depression.Maintain mental health.&nbsp;Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being. While everybody has the blues, feels anxious or gets stressed at times, if you cannot shake these feelings, it is important to get help. Poor mental health increases the risk for long-lasting (chronic) physical conditions like heart disease, stroke and cancer. Our resiliency and ability to overcome adversity is key in creating and maintaining healthy habits. Learn more about the importance of&nbsp;building resiliency within your community.

KDHE offers healthy habits suggestions for the new year

By&nbsp;DANIEL MCCLURE For <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>

A recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/news-polls/npr-misinformation-123020">poll by NPR/Ipsos</a>&nbsp;outlines the new reality for the United States: Conspiracies have entered the mainstream of political thought.

<a href="https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/news/documents/2020-12/topline_npr_misinformation_poll_123020.pdf">More than one in three Americans</a>&nbsp;embrace the idea of a “deep state” seeking to undermine President Donald Trump, and 40% believe “COVID-19 was created in a lab in China.” When asked whether “a group of Satan-worshipping elites who run a child sex ring are trying to control our politics and media,” only 47% said it was false, while 37% were “unsure whether this theory backed by QAnon is true or false” and 17% “believe it’s true.”

As Joe Biden assumes the presidency, this hyper-polarization doesn’t look good. At the same time, conspiracy theories are at the root of United States history, including in Kansas. One of the driving forces of the American Revolution was the conspiracy suggesting the British were going to deprive the colonists of their liberties — particularly the right to enslave, as the abolition of slavery in the British empire became increasingly inevitable.

As Kansans cautiously enter 2021, historian&nbsp;<a href="https://history.uoregon.edu/profile/jostler/">Jeffrey Ostler</a>’s work on conspiracy theories during the state’s populist movement of the 1890s helps make sense of the seemingly insensible.

Dismissing psychological reasons for conspiracies, Ostler approaches them as a core element of politics rooted in the idea of liberty, individual rights, the sovereignty of the people, and virtuous citizens performing civic duties — i.e., “republican virtues” (republican with a small R). Just as today’s world of wealth concentration and technological surveillance provokes a nation of anxious people worried about losing their sovereign rights, Kansas populists also believed their individual liberties were threatened by forces out of their control.

In attempting to create a third political party, Kansas populist leaders embraced a conspiracy theory drawn from Sarah E. V. Emery’s “<a href="https://www.kansasmemory.org/item/203947">Seven Financial Conspiracies Which Have Enslaved the American People</a>” (printed in various editions between 1887 and 1896) to mobilize people. This pamphlet targeted the GOP — the dominant party in Kansas in the late 19th century — charging it with aiding nefarious forces that had supposedly pushed Kansans from being independent and prosperous people into a new life of “unremitting, half-requited toil.”

In response to genuine economic realities, Kansas populists saw their republican virtues under attack from these nefarious forces. In particular, Emery’s pamphlet charged Wall Street with seizing the national economy in the wake of the Civil War, as well as older national villains, such as the English, in accomplishing this anti-republican putsch. Drawing off still smoldering Jacksonian ideas about the “money power” of banks and their danger towards liberties, the new conspiracy drew on what Ostler suggests was “the need for a new antimonopoly party.” Emery’s conspiracy provided a balm for the patchwork of anxieties imagining the death of the republic.

Rather than simply dismissing beliefs in conspiracies, Ostler highlights how embracing conspiracy theories reflected the political impotency, economic hardship and indifference from mainstream political parties felt by many Kansas farmers and workers between the 1870s and 1890s. Emery’s pamphlet “helped explain the GOP’s intransigence” and was not simply a product of simplistic psychological naivety. Rather, it justified “political independence” from the GOP.

These familiar patterns offer a starting point for bipartisan engagement.

Ostler points to one inconvenient political truth for 21st century U.S. politics. A key element of unrest in Kansas was the populists’ complex relationship to capitalism and the American republic: They “accepted some aspects of a market economy, but they invoked ideals of liberty and independence to denounce monopoly, speculation, inequality of wealth, and deferential politics.”

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/23/were-so-close-to-civil-war-everyone-can-smell-the-smoke/">Today’s polarization</a>&nbsp;and embrace of Trumpian conspiracies reflects a similar unrest, as many people struggle within an economic system put in place by conservatives in the 1980s that has largely failed to deliver to the constituents supporting the GOP. Only the rich have prospered. Meanwhile, Democrats fail to capitalize on this discontent because they, too, were complicit.

Struggling to overturn conspiracies appears to only harden the lines of polarization. If Kansas progressives, Democrats and Republicans want to seek some sort of dialogue with folks more inclined to view&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/04/why-students-in-an-emporia-state-alternative-facts-class-are-not-happy-with-their-elders/">QAnon as the gospel truth</a>, they must invest party resources in outreach addressing concrete needs.

They should critique the concentration of wealth — what populists called “monopoly” — and focus on ways to keep money circulating through local communities via the support of small business and farmers who do not receive generous subsidies. And they should embrace infrastructure development aimed toward the needs of the 95% rather than the 1%.

These policies should be transparent and constructive. This is the way out — and this is progress.

The above opinion piece is republished with permission from <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610215611699.jpeg" alt="The scene at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka on Feb. 15, 1893. According to the Kansas State Historical Society, a mob gathered "after an attempt to disarm a member of the militia during the Populist War. This dispute began when both the Republican and Populist parties claimed victory in the Kansas House elections in 1892. A number of contests were still being disputed when the legislative session began in January 1893. The conflict between the parties reached a crisis when the Populists locked themselves in the House Hall. The Republicans used a sledgehammer to break down the doors to the hall." (<a href="http://kansasmemory.org">kansasmemory.org</a>/Kansas State Historical Society)" />
 <figcaption>The scene at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka on Feb. 15, 1893. According to the Kansas State Historical Society, a mob gathered "after an attempt to disarm a member of the militia during the Populist War. This dispute began when both the Republican and Populist parties claimed victory in the Kansas House elections in 1892. A number of contests were still being disputed when the legislative session began in January 1893. The conflict between the parties reached a crisis when the Populists locked themselves in the House Hall. The Republicans used a sledgehammer to break down the doors to the hall." (<a href="http://kansasmemory.org">kansasmemory.org</a>/Kansas State Historical Society)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;DANIEL MCCLURE For <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>A recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/news-polls/npr-misinformation-123020">poll by NPR/Ipsos</a>&nbsp;outlines the new reality for the United States: Conspiracies have entered the mainstream of political thought.<a href="https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/news/documents/2020-12/topline_npr_misinformation_poll_123020.pdf">More than one in three Americans</a>&nbsp;embrace the idea of a “deep state” seeking to undermine President Donald Trump, and 40% believe “COVID-19 was created in a lab in China.” When asked whether “a group of Satan-worshipping elites who run a child sex ring are trying to control our politics and media,” only 47% said it was false, while 37% were “unsure whether this theory backed by QAnon is true or false” and 17% “believe it’s true.”As Joe Biden assumes the presidency, this hyper-polarization doesn’t look good. At the same time, conspiracy theories are at the root of United States history, including in Kansas. One of the driving forces of the American Revolution was the conspiracy suggesting the British were going to deprive the colonists of their liberties — particularly the right to enslave, as the abolition of slavery in the British empire became increasingly inevitable.As Kansans cautiously enter 2021, historian&nbsp;<a href="https://history.uoregon.edu/profile/jostler/">Jeffrey Ostler</a>’s work on conspiracy theories during the state’s populist movement of the 1890s helps make sense of the seemingly insensible.Dismissing psychological reasons for conspiracies, Ostler approaches them as a core element of politics rooted in the idea of liberty, individual rights, the sovereignty of the people, and virtuous citizens performing civic duties — i.e., “republican virtues” (republican with a small R). Just as today’s world of wealth concentration and technological surveillance provokes a nation of anxious people worried about losing their sovereign rights, Kansas populists also believed their individual liberties were threatened by forces out of their control.In attempting to create a third political party, Kansas populist leaders embraced a conspiracy theory drawn from Sarah E. V. Emery’s “<a href="https://www.kansasmemory.org/item/203947">Seven Financial Conspiracies Which Have Enslaved the American People</a>” (printed in various editions between 1887 and 1896) to mobilize people. This pamphlet targeted the GOP — the dominant party in Kansas in the late 19th century — charging it with aiding nefarious forces that had supposedly pushed Kansans from being independent and prosperous people into a new life of “unremitting, half-requited toil.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610215769861.jpeg" alt="Sarah E. V. Emery’s “Seven Financial Conspiracies Which Have Enslaved the American People” targeted the Kansas GOP in the late nineteenth century, charging it with aiding nefarious forces that had supposedly pushed Kansans from being independent and prosperous people into a new life of “unremitting, half-requited toil.” Photo courtesy Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Sarah E. V. Emery’s “Seven Financial Conspiracies Which Have Enslaved the American People” targeted the Kansas GOP in the late nineteenth century, charging it with aiding nefarious forces that had supposedly pushed Kansans from being independent and prosperous people into a new life of “unremitting, half-requited toil.” Photo courtesy Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>In response to genuine economic realities, Kansas populists saw their republican virtues under attack from these nefarious forces. In particular, Emery’s pamphlet charged Wall Street with seizing the national economy in the wake of the Civil War, as well as older national villains, such as the English, in accomplishing this anti-republican putsch. Drawing off still smoldering Jacksonian ideas about the “money power” of banks and their danger towards liberties, the new conspiracy drew on what Ostler suggests was “the need for a new antimonopoly party.” Emery’s conspiracy provided a balm for the patchwork of anxieties imagining the death of the republic.Rather than simply dismissing beliefs in conspiracies, Ostler highlights how embracing conspiracy theories reflected the political impotency, economic hardship and indifference from mainstream political parties felt by many Kansas farmers and workers between the 1870s and 1890s. Emery’s pamphlet “helped explain the GOP’s intransigence” and was not simply a product of simplistic psychological naivety. Rather, it justified “political independence” from the GOP.These familiar patterns offer a starting point for bipartisan engagement.Ostler points to one inconvenient political truth for 21st century U.S. politics. A key element of unrest in Kansas was the populists’ complex relationship to capitalism and the American republic: They “accepted some aspects of a market economy, but they invoked ideals of liberty and independence to denounce monopoly, speculation, inequality of wealth, and deferential politics.”<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/23/were-so-close-to-civil-war-everyone-can-smell-the-smoke/">Today’s polarization</a>&nbsp;and embrace of Trumpian conspiracies reflects a similar unrest, as many people struggle within an economic system put in place by conservatives in the 1980s that has largely failed to deliver to the constituents supporting the GOP. Only the rich have prospered. Meanwhile, Democrats fail to capitalize on this discontent because they, too, were complicit.Struggling to overturn conspiracies appears to only harden the lines of polarization. If Kansas progressives, Democrats and Republicans want to seek some sort of dialogue with folks more inclined to view&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/04/why-students-in-an-emporia-state-alternative-facts-class-are-not-happy-with-their-elders/">QAnon as the gospel truth</a>, they must invest party resources in outreach addressing concrete needs.They should critique the concentration of wealth — what populists called “monopoly” — and focus on ways to keep money circulating through local communities via the support of small business and farmers who do not receive generous subsidies. And they should embrace infrastructure development aimed toward the needs of the 95% rather than the 1%.These policies should be transparent and constructive. This is the way out — and this is progress.The above opinion piece is republished with permission from <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610216043956.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

OPINION: KS history suggests path away from conspiracy theories, violent mobs

UPDATE: KSRE has corrected the URL for this series. The story below has been corrected to reflect that.

Cutting clutter, vaccinations, personal wellness among upcoming topics&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – K-State Research and Extension is offering weekly one-hour virtual Living Well Together programs, designed to enhance Kansans’ time at home, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic when many are home more than usual.&nbsp;

Upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7ttOFKPLvYQXiJ" target="_blank">Living Well Together programs</a>&nbsp;include:&nbsp;

Thursday, 6:45 p.m. – Cut the Clutter &amp; Get Organized&nbsp;

Jan. 21, 6:45 p.m. – Vaccinations: Checking the Facts Together&nbsp;

Jan. 28, 6:45 p.m. – Who’s Taking Care of You?&nbsp;

The programs are free to all Kansans, but&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7ttOFKPLvYQXiJ" target="_blank">registration</a>&nbsp;is required. Participants can choose to register for one or all – as many as they like. Once registered, a Zoom link will be sent to the registrant’s email address.&nbsp;

Previous sessions – Cooking Roadmap, Bonding Thru Board Games and Baking Together – were recorded and available to anyone who registers for any of the programs.&nbsp;

Upcoming topics will also cover&nbsp;the Mediterranean eating style, checking your credit, home organization tips, family mealtime fun and more.&nbsp;Sessions are planned through at least late March.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610214596750.jpeg" alt=""Cut the Clutter" is one of the free one-hour online programs offered by the K-State Research and Extension program series Living Well Together. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>"Cut the Clutter" is one of the free one-hour online programs offered by the K-State Research and Extension program series Living Well Together. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: KSRE has corrected the URL for this series. The story below has been corrected to reflect that.<h2>Cutting clutter, vaccinations, personal wellness among upcoming topics&nbsp;</h2>MANHATTAN, Kan. – K-State Research and Extension is offering weekly one-hour virtual Living Well Together programs, designed to enhance Kansans’ time at home, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic when many are home more than usual.&nbsp;Upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7ttOFKPLvYQXiJ" target="_blank">Living Well Together programs</a>&nbsp;include:&nbsp;Thursday, 6:45 p.m. – Cut the Clutter &amp; Get Organized&nbsp;Jan. 21, 6:45 p.m. – Vaccinations: Checking the Facts Together&nbsp;Jan. 28, 6:45 p.m. – Who’s Taking Care of You?&nbsp;The programs are free to all Kansans, but&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7ttOFKPLvYQXiJ" target="_blank">registration</a>&nbsp;is required. Participants can choose to register for one or all – as many as they like. Once registered, a Zoom link will be sent to the registrant’s email address.&nbsp;Previous sessions – Cooking Roadmap, Bonding Thru Board Games and Baking Together – were recorded and available to anyone who registers for any of the programs.&nbsp;Upcoming topics will also cover&nbsp;the Mediterranean eating style, checking your credit, home organization tips, family mealtime fun and more.&nbsp;Sessions are planned through at least late March.&nbsp;

UPDATE: More ‘Living Well Together’ free online seminars offered

It looks like we're in for a typical January weekend.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, partly to mostly cloudy skies and dry conditions will persist throughout the area this weekend with near normal temperatures expected.

Today Patchy fog before 10am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 38. Calm wind becoming north northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 24. North northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Sunday Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 37. North wind 3 to 7 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 22. Calm wind.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 49. Light south southwest wind becoming southwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 53.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 59.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 32.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610203859869.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It looks like we're in for a typical January weekend.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, partly to mostly cloudy skies and dry conditions will persist throughout the area this weekend with near normal temperatures expected.Here's the Salina forecast from NWS:Today Patchy fog before 10am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 38. Calm wind becoming north northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 24. North northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.Sunday Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 37. North wind 3 to 7 mph.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 22. Calm wind.Monday Sunny, with a high near 49. Light south southwest wind becoming southwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 53.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 59.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 32.Friday Sunny, with a high near 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS: Partly to mostly cloudy, dry, near normal temperatures

Assembling to protest is our right under the First Amendment — it’s how we talk to each other as a nation.

Sometimes politely. But often not. Occasionally at the top of our lungs. Frequently with brutally frank messages. And often in ways that spark counterprotests.

Just as the nation’s founders intended — and it is still a good thing we do.

What happened Wednesday when a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol was not a protest protected by the First Amendment. It was a criminal act. A stain upon the fabric of democracy.

Freedom of speech and press, as well as to assemble and to petition for change, provide the real means to speak to each other across the nation’s deepest divides. Those freedoms are the way we give voice to those who feel ignored by the powerful.

One aspect of those freedoms is to provide a kind of national safety valve for the normal frustrations built into democracy — where elections and legislative decisions by their very nature are a form of majority rule until the next election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593729871227.png" alt="Gene Policinski. Photo courtesy Freedom Forum" />
 <figcaption>Gene Policinski. Photo courtesy Freedom Forum</figcaption>
 </figure>By GENE POLICINSKIAssembling to protest is our right under the First Amendment — it’s how we talk to each other as a nation.Sometimes politely. But often not. Occasionally at the top of our lungs. Frequently with brutally frank messages. And often in ways that spark counterprotests.Just as the nation’s founders intended — and it is still a good thing we do.What happened Wednesday when a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol was not a protest protected by the First Amendment. It was a criminal act. A stain upon the fabric of democracy.Freedom of speech and press, as well as to assemble and to petition for change, provide the real means to speak to each other across the nation’s deepest divides. Those freedoms are the way we give voice to those who feel ignored by the powerful.One aspect of those freedoms is to provide a kind of national safety valve for the normal frustrations built into democracy — where elections and legislative decisions by their very nature are a form of majority rule until the next election.We have been doing a lot of talking lately. Mostly peaceably. But when mobs replace protest with chaos, it betrays the core principles on which the United States was founded and the role is has played for more than two centuries as a worldwide beacon of freedom and the rule of law. There is no First Amendment shield for violence, no matter the motive.Yes, we are intently discussing and debating some of the most important challenges that the nation faces, from Black Lives Matter protests over racial bias and racial dignity, to COVID-19 demonstrations for and against pandemic health restrictions. Waiting in the wings are the demonstrations, marches and protests over ongoing issues such as abortion, gun laws and voting rights. The venues will range from the web to public meetings to city sidewalks and rural byways and, yes, the steps of the Capitol.As differing as the subjects, points of view and mediums may be across 330 million citizens, there are some fundamental facts for all to acknowledge — and in the wake of Wednesday’s violence, reaffirm:●A democracy is only as strong as those willing to exercise their freedoms in the service of a better nation;●We sometimes must hear voices and messages that challenge our fundamental beliefs, if only to be better prepared to defend our own positions.To be sure, there is no provision in the First Amendment’s 45 words for universal agreement or quick solutions to what ails the republic. The First Amendment is a constitutional starting point, not a finish line.The very real tension of the First Amendment’s promise to produce positive change is this: Sometimes it doesn’t. The pace of change is often too slow for advocates and too fast for opponents. Perhaps that’s why assembly and petition lag behind the other First Amendment freedoms in public understanding. But as many as a third of our fellow citizens have trouble even naming one of the First Amendment freedoms (which also include religion, speech and press).While we tend today to choose speech as the most important freedom among those five, petition was the keystone for many of our nation’s founders. Protecting the right to speak the truth as each of us sees it, they reasoned, would protect the other four freedoms in law and democracy in practice.If we want our ideas to be heard, we must encourage the rights of our opponents to speak also. We must disavow those on the right and left who would demonize dissent, discourage debate or deny a platform for all to be heard. And we must resist resorting to violence when conversation lags or fails to produce the results we seek.Our nation’s history shows us that when we talk to each other, and when we listen, we are making progress at solving problems, correcting wrongs and admittedly, often imperfectly, making better the lives of ourselves and our fellow citizens.That applies whether we are gathering in the nation’s capital city over election results or in our hometowns where we are free to publicly express views on everyday matters like school policies or streets that need to be paved.Those difficult conversations are worth having, despite the frustrations. Those contrary views are worth expressing, peaceably, no matter the tensions of the moment.And those rights are worth preserving, no matter our divisions — and no matter the actions of a mob.Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum. He can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

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