LINDSBORG – Bethany College has announced those students who earned Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Music Education, and graduated in December.

Graduates, their majors, and their hometowns are as follows.

Karli Alvarez, Accounting and Finance, Salina, KS

Kevin Brooks, Sports Management, Garden City, KS

Cassi Clouse, Elementary Education, West Jordan, UT

Katelyn Dain, Marketing and Management with International Management, Castle Rock, CO

Aubrey Dickson, Elementary Education Teaching K-6, Junction City, KS

Luis Duran, Business Management, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Macae Fisher, Accounting and Finance, Lindsborg, KS

Katherine Fowler, Art: Art Teaching PreK-12, Spearville, KS

Kelsi Mueller, Health &amp; Physical Education Teaching PreK-12, Moscow, KS

Citlali Padilla, Biology, Garden City, KS

Savannah Pinson, Criminal Justice, Andrews, TX

Tiffany Rivera, Criminal Justice, Junction City, KS

Elizabeth Schrag, Exercise Science and Biology, McPherson, KS

Charlie Vizcaya, Health &amp; Physical Education Teaching PreK-12, Yabucoa, Puerto Rico

Ivona Vojvodic, Management, Bar, Montenegro

Lyric Walker, Sports Management, Haslet, TX

Shannon Williams, Criminal Justice, Las Vegas, NV

Harrison Woodyard, Digital and Media Arts: 3D Computer Animation, Norton, KS

--<a href="http://bethanylb.edu">Bethany</a>--

LINDSBORG – Bethany College has announced those students who earned Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Music Education, and graduated in December.Graduates, their majors, and their hometowns are as follows.Karli Alvarez, Accounting and Finance, Salina, KSKevin Brooks, Sports Management, Garden City, KSCassi Clouse, Elementary Education, West Jordan, UTKatelyn Dain, Marketing and Management with International Management, Castle Rock, COAubrey Dickson, Elementary Education Teaching K-6, Junction City, KSLuis Duran, Business Management, Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicMacae Fisher, Accounting and Finance, Lindsborg, KSKatherine Fowler, Art: Art Teaching PreK-12, Spearville, KSKeisha Hamilton, Biology, Salina, KSTempest Henry, Biology, Salina, KSKaylee Littrell, Biology, Canton, KSAlex Martinez, Marketing, Pearland, TXKelsi Mueller, Health &amp; Physical Education Teaching PreK-12, Moscow, KSCitlali Padilla, Biology, Garden City, KSSavannah Pinson, Criminal Justice, Andrews, TXTiffany Rivera, Criminal Justice, Junction City, KSElizabeth Schrag, Exercise Science and Biology, McPherson, KSDavid Serrano, Psychology, Sahuarita, AZSerenity Storey, English, Sedgwick, KSCharlie Vizcaya, Health &amp; Physical Education Teaching PreK-12, Yabucoa, Puerto RicoIvona Vojvodic, Management, Bar, MontenegroLyric Walker, Sports Management, Haslet, TXShannon Williams, Criminal Justice, Las Vegas, NVHarrison Woodyard, Digital and Media Arts: 3D Computer Animation, Norton, KS--<a href="http://bethanylb.edu">Bethany</a>--

Bethany College announces fall 2020 graduates

The work of local artist and poet Harley Elliott is now on display in the Salina Public Library's virtual Gallery 708.

The exhibit, Harley Elliott's Allies, will be on display at <a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/virtual">salinapubliclibrary.org/virtual</a> until Jan. 3, 2021. While Elliott has created more than 140 mixed media pieces for this collection, Salina Public Library will be exhibiting 20 works from Elliott's series.

Elliott began creating Allies after a serious health crisis in 2014. He recognized at that time that he needed some allies.

"It's a matter of recognizing allies more so than wanting allies. Creating some is also good because art is a matter of process of discovery. I might discover an ally within myself that I didn’t know I had."

The manipulation of color and water is an important element of Elliott’s work. The mediums are humble; uniformly each ally is crafted atop a 16×20" illustration board. From his home living room floor, the flattest surface he has to work on, the figures are carefully created from any combination of acrylic paint, Conte crayon, inks, colored pencil and every once in a while non-traditional medium.

A lifelong student of the arts, Elliott received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kansas Wesleyan University in art and English, then earned a Master of Arts in painting from Highlands University, Las Vegas, N.M.

Early in his career, he started out as a book designer at Syracuse University Press 1968-1970 and later went on to teach art as an assistant professor at Salina’s Marymount College for 13 years. After Marymount, he served as the education coordinator at the Salina Art Center for more than a decade. 

Today he is an established Kansas visual artist and the author of 13 books, including 11 poetry titles, one children’s book, and one memoir, many of which can be found in Salina Public Library’s book collection.

If you’d like to learn more about the artist or the virtual gallery, or would like to purchase art showcased, please contact Salina Public Library Programs Coordinator Glory Benacka at 785-825-4624, ext. 219, or email <a href="mailto:programs.glory@salinapublic.org">programs.glory@salinapublic.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607642372821.jpeg" alt="One of Harley Elliott's mixed media pieces. Image courtesy Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>One of Harley Elliott's mixed media pieces. Image courtesy Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>The work of local artist and poet Harley Elliott is now on display in the Salina Public Library's virtual Gallery 708.The exhibit, Harley Elliott's Allies, will be on display at <a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/virtual">salinapubliclibrary.org/virtual</a> until Jan. 3, 2021. While Elliott has created more than 140 mixed media pieces for this collection, Salina Public Library will be exhibiting 20 works from Elliott's series.Elliott began creating Allies after a serious health crisis in 2014. He recognized at that time that he needed some allies."It's a matter of recognizing allies more so than wanting allies. Creating some is also good because art is a matter of process of discovery. I might discover an ally within myself that I didn’t know I had."The manipulation of color and water is an important element of Elliott’s work. The mediums are humble; uniformly each ally is crafted atop a 16×20" illustration board. From his home living room floor, the flattest surface he has to work on, the figures are carefully created from any combination of acrylic paint, Conte crayon, inks, colored pencil and every once in a while non-traditional medium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607642567645.jpeg" alt="Harley Elliott. Photo courtesy SPL" />
 <figcaption>Harley Elliott. Photo courtesy SPL</figcaption>
 </figure>A lifelong student of the arts, Elliott received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kansas Wesleyan University in art and English, then earned a Master of Arts in painting from Highlands University, Las Vegas, N.M.Early in his career, he started out as a book designer at Syracuse University Press 1968-1970 and later went on to teach art as an assistant professor at Salina’s Marymount College for 13 years. After Marymount, he served as the education coordinator at the Salina Art Center for more than a decade. Today he is an established Kansas visual artist and the author of 13 books, including 11 poetry titles, one children’s book, and one memoir, many of which can be found in Salina Public Library’s book collection.If you’d like to learn more about the artist or the virtual gallery, or would like to purchase art showcased, please contact Salina Public Library Programs Coordinator Glory Benacka at 785-825-4624, ext. 219, or email <a href="mailto:programs.glory@salinapublic.org">programs.glory@salinapublic.org</a>.

Salina Public Library virtual gallery features work of Harley Elliott

The City of Salina has adjusted its deadline for submission of expression of interest forms for the Salina Law Enforcement Citizen Review Board (CRB).

Persons interested in serving on the board must submit their expression of interest forms by Tuesday. This is a change from the originally announced Jan. 4, 2021.

According to information from the city, the board will be created to review the investigatory findings of the Salina Police Department in response to complaints of (a) excessive use of force and/or (b) racial or other biased-based policing.

The Law Enforcement Citizen Review Board will serve as a community advisory board and a training advisory board to:

Advise and assist the Salina police department in policy development, education, and community outreach and communications related to racial or other biased-based policing by law enforcement officers and agencies;Assist the city manager, chief of police, and the city commission in the development of a racial or other biased-based policing comprehensive plan; and

Provide recommendations resulting from board-initiated review of departmental training policies.

Review the investigatory findings of the Salina Police Department in response to complaints of (a) excessive use of force and/or (b) racial or other biased-based policing

The CRB will be appointed by the mayor with the consent of the city commission. The CRB membership will include seven (7) persons who have (a) demonstrated interest or experience in police and/or community relations and (b) reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the city of Salina with a goal of overrepresentation of minority populations in comparison with local demographics.

The CRB will meet as needed and at least quarterly. Timely review of complaints of excessive use of force and/or racial or other biased-based policing will require flexibility in the scheduling of special meetings of the CRB.

If you are interested in serving the community by becoming a member, please submit an expression-of-interest form, no later than Dec. 15, 2020. Forms may be obtained from the City of Salina website, http://salina-ks.gov/boards or by visiting the City Clerk’s Office, room 206 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. If you have any questions, please call (785) 309-5735.

The City of Salina has adjusted its deadline for submission of expression of interest forms for the Salina Law Enforcement Citizen Review Board (CRB).Persons interested in serving on the board must submit their expression of interest forms by Tuesday. This is a change from the originally announced Jan. 4, 2021.According to information from the city, the board will be created to review the investigatory findings of the Salina Police Department in response to complaints of (a) excessive use of force and/or (b) racial or other biased-based policing.The Law Enforcement Citizen Review Board will serve as a community advisory board and a training advisory board to:Advise and assist the Salina police department in policy development, education, and community outreach and communications related to racial or other biased-based policing by law enforcement officers and agencies;Assist the city manager, chief of police, and the city commission in the development of a racial or other biased-based policing comprehensive plan; andProvide recommendations resulting from board-initiated review of departmental training policies.Review the investigatory findings of the Salina Police Department in response to complaints of (a) excessive use of force and/or (b) racial or other biased-based policingThe CRB will be appointed by the mayor with the consent of the city commission. The CRB membership will include seven (7) persons who have (a) demonstrated interest or experience in police and/or community relations and (b) reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the city of Salina with a goal of overrepresentation of minority populations in comparison with local demographics.The CRB will meet as needed and at least quarterly. Timely review of complaints of excessive use of force and/or racial or other biased-based policing will require flexibility in the scheduling of special meetings of the CRB.If you are interested in serving the community by becoming a member, please submit an expression-of-interest form, no later than Dec. 15, 2020. Forms may be obtained from the City of Salina website, http://salina-ks.gov/boards or by visiting the City Clerk’s Office, room 206 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. If you have any questions, please call (785) 309-5735.

City bumps up deadline for CRB expression of interest forms

Two members of Class 60 from the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy are stationed are now stationed in Saline and Ellsworth counties.

Class 60 graduated from the training academy in Salina on Nov. 24.

Trooper Andrew Voss is stationed in Saline County and and Trooper Shane Berens is stationed in Ellsworth County.

From the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C Facebook page:

Two members of Class 60 from the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy are stationed are now stationed in Saline and Ellsworth counties.Class 60 graduated from the training academy in Salina on Nov. 24.Trooper Andrew Voss is stationed in Saline County and and Trooper Shane Berens is stationed in Ellsworth County.From the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=258&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fvideos%2F3663494110373445%2F&show_text=true&width=560" width="560" height="373" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=258&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fvideos%2F396270218106135%2F&show_text=true&width=560" width="560" height="373" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥KHP introduces new troopers in Saline and Ellsworth counties

Salina Family Healthcare Center (SFHC) is hosting a FREE community COVID-19 testing event this Sunday from 1-5 pm at Bill Burke Park, 1501 East Crawford Street. 

The COVID-19 tests are saliva based, rather than the nasal method.

Those interested in being tested should arrive at Bill Burke Park where they will be directed by SFHC staff members to pick up their test collection kit. Attendees should not eat, drink, smoke, brush teeth, or chew gum 30 minutes before the test.

Once attendees have grabbed their collection kits, they will be directed to park to complete the test. Instructions will be provided. Collection kits will be registered by attendees on their smart phones. Attendees without a smart phone will receive assistance to register their test. Once the test is complete, there will be a drop box for completed kits. SFHC will send all completed kits to a lab for analysis. Attendees will receive the results of their test via text message to their phones.

“Salina Family Healthcare Center is very happy to participate in this KDHE program of expanded community testing. The state of Kansas wants to greatly expand testing to most people of Kansas during this holiday season. Anyone who has not tested COVID-positive in the last ninety days should consider getting tested,” said Dr. Kraft, CEO/CMO of SFHC.

“You register on your smart phone, spit in a tube, and we mail it off. Kits will be mailed on Monday and results should return to you via text message within 48 hours.”

This event is a coordinated COVID-19 test collection with Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC). SRHC will be hosting a free community COVID-19 testing event at their Comcare location on Ohio Dec. 19 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. If supply is available, SFHC will host a second free community COVID-19 testing event on Dec. 20 at Bill Burke from 1-5 p.m.

Salina Family Healthcare Center (SFHC) is hosting a FREE community COVID-19 testing event this Sunday from 1-5 pm at Bill Burke Park, 1501 East Crawford Street. The COVID-19 tests are saliva based, rather than the nasal method.Those interested in being tested should arrive at Bill Burke Park where they will be directed by SFHC staff members to pick up their test collection kit. Attendees should not eat, drink, smoke, brush teeth, or chew gum 30 minutes before the test.Once attendees have grabbed their collection kits, they will be directed to park to complete the test. Instructions will be provided. Collection kits will be registered by attendees on their smart phones. Attendees without a smart phone will receive assistance to register their test. Once the test is complete, there will be a drop box for completed kits. SFHC will send all completed kits to a lab for analysis. Attendees will receive the results of their test via text message to their phones.“Salina Family Healthcare Center is very happy to participate in this KDHE program of expanded community testing. The state of Kansas wants to greatly expand testing to most people of Kansas during this holiday season. Anyone who has not tested COVID-positive in the last ninety days should consider getting tested,” said Dr. Kraft, CEO/CMO of SFHC.“You register on your smart phone, spit in a tube, and we mail it off. Kits will be mailed on Monday and results should return to you via text message within 48 hours.”This event is a coordinated COVID-19 test collection with Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC). SRHC will be hosting a free community COVID-19 testing event at their Comcare location on Ohio Dec. 19 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. If supply is available, SFHC will host a second free community COVID-19 testing event on Dec. 20 at Bill Burke from 1-5 p.m.

SFHC hosting free community testing for COVID-19 on Sunday

A storm system will arrive on Friday bringing with it a mix a rain and snow to portions of Kansas. 

Light accumulations of 1 to perhaps 2 inches will be possible along the Interstate 70 corridor of central Kansas, while amounts of a trace to a light dusting will be possible across portions of south central Kansas, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607623534819.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A storm system will arrive on Friday bringing with it a mix a rain and snow to portions of Kansas. Light accumulations of 1 to perhaps 2 inches will be possible along the Interstate 70 corridor of central Kansas, while amounts of a trace to a light dusting will be possible across portions of south central Kansas, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

Storm system to bring rain, snow to area on Friday

Police are looking for a pickup that was stolen from a residence in west Salina earlier this week.

Mackenzie Talbot, 25, of Salina, told police that sometime between 6:30 p.m. Tuesday and 6:30 a.m. Wednesday, someone stole his gray 2010 Ford F250 from his driveway in the 800 block of Willow Drive, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The license plate on the pickup is KS 385MKU, he noted.

The pickup has a “Hoonagin” sticker on the passenger side rear window, tinted windows, and black rims, according to Forrester. The keys were not in the pickup, Forrester noted.

The pickup was valued at $15,000, he added.

Police are looking for a pickup that was stolen from a residence in west Salina earlier this week.Mackenzie Talbot, 25, of Salina, told police that sometime between 6:30 p.m. Tuesday and 6:30 a.m. Wednesday, someone stole his gray 2010 Ford F250 from his driveway in the 800 block of Willow Drive, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The license plate on the pickup is KS 385MKU, he noted.The pickup has a “Hoonagin” sticker on the passenger side rear window, tinted windows, and black rims, according to Forrester. The keys were not in the pickup, Forrester noted.The pickup was valued at $15,000, he added.

Police investigating theft of pickup from west Salina residence

We need some extra Christmas cheer this year. 2020 took all of us on a chaotic roller-coaster ride, and many people in our communities are scared, broken, hurting, and hungry. They’re worried about the future. They’ve lost jobs, or even loved ones.

What if we looked at this year as an opportunity to reset how we do things at Christmas? Our neighbors and friends and family are searching for anything that resembles normalcy, and we get to decide to be the kind of people who offer hope. Let’s focus on&nbsp;giving&nbsp;instead of getting.

Now, there’s nothing wrong with buying some nice things and enjoying Christmas festivities. But skipping around the mall with a credit card, or going crazy with online shopping will only ignite a spark of happiness that’s gone by December 26th. When we practice generosity, we get to make an impact on someone’s life that can last for years.

Here are a few simple ways you can impact someone’s life this year:

●Share Your Talents -&nbsp;Use your skills to bless others. If you’re a musician, host an outdoor Christmas concert. If you’re a financial coach, give away free sessions to people in a financial hole.

●Offer to Babysit -&nbsp;Childcare is expensive. With more families being forced to homeschool and work from home, you can offer a much-needed break for worn-out parents.

●Provide Gifts for Children in Need -&nbsp;There are children in your community without families, or in low-income situations, who might not get any gifts on Christmas morning. Do something about it!

●Deliver Meals on Wheels -&nbsp;Elderly people are some of the most vulnerable in our society, and among the hardest-hit by the coronavirus pandemic. Dropping off a meal is an easy way to check up on them and honor them.

●Write Letters -&nbsp;A handwritten note is a rare gift these days. There are plenty of services that help coordinate volunteers, who write letters to nursing home residents or members of our military overseas.

●Sponsor a Family Anonymously -&nbsp;You can be Santa Claus for a friend or a family in need. Take your family shopping, wrap the gifts, and then leave them on someone’s doorstep as a Christmas surprise.

●Donate to a Local Nonprofit or Church -&nbsp;Find an organization that’s doing good work, and support them financially through year-end giving.

This is just the start. If you brainstorm creative ways to be generous this year, I think you’ll start to get excited for how much fun this can be. In a world that needs hope, don’t wait around for someone else to step up to the plate. It’s up to you and me to set an example worth following!

Chris Hogan&nbsp;is a two-time No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of&nbsp;The Chris Hogan Show. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, Fox Business, Yahoo! Finance, and the&nbsp;Rachael Ray Show.&nbsp;Since 2005, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he gives practical money advice on retirement, investing and building wealth. Follow Chris on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chrishogan360/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ChrisHogan360" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chrishogan360.com/" target="_blank">chrishogan360.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598993777573.jpeg" alt="Chris Hogan" />
 <figcaption>Chris Hogan</figcaption>
 </figure>By CHRIS HOGANWe need some extra Christmas cheer this year. 2020 took all of us on a chaotic roller-coaster ride, and many people in our communities are scared, broken, hurting, and hungry. They’re worried about the future. They’ve lost jobs, or even loved ones.What if we looked at this year as an opportunity to reset how we do things at Christmas? Our neighbors and friends and family are searching for anything that resembles normalcy, and we get to decide to be the kind of people who offer hope. Let’s focus on&nbsp;giving&nbsp;instead of getting.Now, there’s nothing wrong with buying some nice things and enjoying Christmas festivities. But skipping around the mall with a credit card, or going crazy with online shopping will only ignite a spark of happiness that’s gone by December 26th. When we practice generosity, we get to make an impact on someone’s life that can last for years.Here are a few simple ways you can impact someone’s life this year:●Share Your Talents -&nbsp;Use your skills to bless others. If you’re a musician, host an outdoor Christmas concert. If you’re a financial coach, give away free sessions to people in a financial hole.●Offer to Babysit -&nbsp;Childcare is expensive. With more families being forced to homeschool and work from home, you can offer a much-needed break for worn-out parents.●Provide Gifts for Children in Need -&nbsp;There are children in your community without families, or in low-income situations, who might not get any gifts on Christmas morning. Do something about it!●Deliver Meals on Wheels -&nbsp;Elderly people are some of the most vulnerable in our society, and among the hardest-hit by the coronavirus pandemic. Dropping off a meal is an easy way to check up on them and honor them.●Write Letters -&nbsp;A handwritten note is a rare gift these days. There are plenty of services that help coordinate volunteers, who write letters to nursing home residents or members of our military overseas.●Sponsor a Family Anonymously -&nbsp;You can be Santa Claus for a friend or a family in need. Take your family shopping, wrap the gifts, and then leave them on someone’s doorstep as a Christmas surprise.●Donate to a Local Nonprofit or Church -&nbsp;Find an organization that’s doing good work, and support them financially through year-end giving.This is just the start. If you brainstorm creative ways to be generous this year, I think you’ll start to get excited for how much fun this can be. In a world that needs hope, don’t wait around for someone else to step up to the plate. It’s up to you and me to set an example worth following!Chris Hogan&nbsp;is a two-time No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of&nbsp;The Chris Hogan Show. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, Fox Business, Yahoo! Finance, and the&nbsp;Rachael Ray Show.&nbsp;Since 2005, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he gives practical money advice on retirement, investing and building wealth. Follow Chris on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chrishogan360/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ChrisHogan360" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chrishogan360.com/" target="_blank">chrishogan360.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HOGAN: Simple ways to make an impact this Christmas

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

Amber Ellyson&nbsp;is the latest Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service honoree.

Amber is a Corrections Officer III with the Saline County Sheriff's Office, where she's worked for three years.

Her nominator wrote, "Amber has worked hard to protect and serve while making a career at the Saline County Jail. She is a dedicated mother and Corrections officer. She is one of the most selfless women I know and deserves the acknowledgement."

Congratulations, Amber, on being selected as this week’s Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service honoree! Thank you for your service!

Comfort Heating &amp; Air and Mokas Coffee are back this fall with their "Salute to Service" program, a weekly contest on Salina Post to honor a local police officers, military members, medical professionals, or first responders. Each week, a winner will be selected and will receive a $50 gift card to Mokas Coffee in Salina.

All the weekly winners will be entered in a random drawing to be held on Dec. 20 to win a Salina Staycation with hotel, a local gift cards for shopping and food. Additionally, Comfort Heating &amp; Air will also donate $500 to the charity or service organization of the grand prize winner’s choice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607570110990.jpeg" alt="Amber Ellyson. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Amber Ellyson. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Amber Ellyson&nbsp;is the latest Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service honoree.Amber is a Corrections Officer III with the Saline County Sheriff's Office, where she's worked for three years.Her nominator wrote, "Amber has worked hard to protect and serve while making a career at the Saline County Jail. She is a dedicated mother and Corrections officer. She is one of the most selfless women I know and deserves the acknowledgement."Congratulations, Amber, on being selected as this week’s Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service honoree! Thank you for your service!Comfort Heating &amp; Air and Mokas Coffee are back this fall with their "Salute to Service" program, a weekly contest on Salina Post to honor a local police officers, military members, medical professionals, or first responders. Each week, a winner will be selected and will receive a $50 gift card to Mokas Coffee in Salina.All the weekly winners will be entered in a random drawing to be held on Dec. 20 to win a Salina Staycation with hotel, a local gift cards for shopping and food. Additionally, Comfort Heating &amp; Air will also donate $500 to the charity or service organization of the grand prize winner’s choice.

Comfort's Salute to Service honors Amber Ellyson

Today is Thursday, Dec. 10, the 345th day of 2020. There are 21 days left in the year. 

On Dec. 10, 1964, Martin Luther King Jr. received his Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, saying he accepted it "with an abiding faith in America and an audacious faith in the future of mankind." 

In 1861, the Confederacy admitted Kentucky as it recognized a pro-Southern shadow state government that was acting without the authority of the pro-Union government in Frankfort. 

In 1869, women were granted the right to vote in the Wyoming Territory. 

In 1898, a treaty was signed in Paris officially ending the Spanish-American War.

In 1946, newspaperman Damon Runyon, known for his short stories featuring colorful Broadway denizens, died at a New York hospital at age 66.

In 1950, Ralph J. Bunche was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the first Black American to receive the award.

In 1967, singer Otis Redding, 26, and six others were killed when their plane crashed into Wisconsin's Lake Monona; trumpeter Ben Cauley, a member of the group the Bar-Kays, was the only survivor. 

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev concluded three days of summit talks in Washington. Violinist Jascha Heifetz died in Los Angeles at age 86. 

In 1994, Yasser Arafat, Shimon Peres and Yitzhak Rabin received the Nobel Peace Prize, pledging to pursue their mission of healing the anguished Middle East. 

In 1996, South African President Nelson Mandela signed the country's new constitution into law during a ceremony in Sharpeville. 

In 2007, suspended NFL star Michael Vick was sentenced by a federal judge in Richmond, Virginia, to 23 months in prison for bankrolling a dogfighting operation and killing dogs that underperformed (Vick served 19 months at Leavenworth). Former Vice President Al Gore accepted the Nobel Peace Prize with a call for humanity to rise up against a looming climate crisis and stop waging war on the environment. 

In 2009, President Barack Obama accepted the Nobel Peace Prize with a humble acknowledgment of his scant accomplishments and a robust defense of the U.S. at war. James Cameron's 3-D film epic "Avatar" had its world premiere in London.

In 2013, South Africa held a memorial service for Nelson Mandela, during which U.S. President Barack Obama energized tens of thousands of spectators and nearly 100 visiting heads of state with a plea for the world to emulate "the last great liberator of the 20th century." (The ceremony was marred by the presence of a sign-language interpreter who deaf advocates said was an impostor waving his arms around meaninglessly.) General Motors named product chief Mary Barra its new CEO, making her the first woman to run a U.S. car company. 

Ten years ago: The Norwegian Nobel Committee honored Chinese literary critic Liu Xiaobo, imprisoned for urging political reform, by presenting his $1.4 million Nobel Peace Prize diploma and medal to an empty chair. A federal jury in Salt Lake City convicted street preacher Brian David Mitchell of kidnapping and raping Elizabeth Smart. (Mitchell was later sentenced to life in prison.)

Five years ago: The Senate Judiciary Committee rebuked Donald Trump by endorsing a nonbinding amendment, 16-4, that said barring individuals from entering the United States based on religion would be un-American (the Republican presidential front-runner had called for blocking Muslims from entering the country in the aftermath of attacks in the United States and abroad.)

One year ago: House Democrats announced two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump, declaring that he "betrayed the nation" with his actions toward Ukraine and an obstruction of Congress' investigation; Trump responded with a tweet of "WITCH HUNT!" At an evening rally in Pennsylvania, Trump mocked the impeachment effort and predicted it would lead to his reelection in 2020. House Democrats and the White House announced agreement on a modified North American trade pact to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement. A man and a woman burst into a kosher market in Jersey City, N.J., with assault weapons, killing three people in the store after earlier killing a police officer at a nearby cemetery; they then died in an hours-long exchange of gunfire with police. (Authorities said the pair acted out of hatred for Jews and law enforcement.) A Pennsylvania appeals court rejected Bill Cosby's bid to overturn his sexual assault conviction.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Tommy Kirk is 79. Actor Fionnula Flanagan is 79. Pop singer Chad Stuart (Chad and Jeremy) is 79. Rhythm-and-blues singer Ralph Tavares is 79. Actor-singer Gloria Loring is 74. Pop-funk musician Walter "Clyde" Orange (The Commodores) is 74. Country singer Johnny Rodriguez is 69. Actor Susan Dey is 68. Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is 64. Jazz musician Paul Hardcastle is 63. Actor John York (TV: "General Hospital") is 62. Actor-director Kenneth Branagh is 60. Actor Nia Peeples is 59. TV chef Bobby Flay is 56. Rock singer-musician J Mascis is 55. Rock musician Scot Alexander (Dishwalla) is 49. Actor-comedian Arden Myrin is 47. Rock musician Meg White (The White Stripes) is 46. Actor Emmanuelle Chriqui is 45. Rapper Kuniva (D12) is 45. Actor Gavin Houston is 43. Actor Alano Miller is 41. Violinist Sarah Chang is 40. Actor Patrick John Flueger is 37. Country singer Meghan Linsey is 35. Actor Raven-Symone is 35. Actor/singer Teyana Taylor is 30. Actor Kiki Layne is 29.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, Dec. 10, the 345th day of 2020. There are 21 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Dec. 10, 1964, Martin Luther King Jr. received his Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, saying he accepted it "with an abiding faith in America and an audacious faith in the future of mankind." On this date: In 1861, the Confederacy admitted Kentucky as it recognized a pro-Southern shadow state government that was acting without the authority of the pro-Union government in Frankfort. In 1869, women were granted the right to vote in the Wyoming Territory. In 1898, a treaty was signed in Paris officially ending the Spanish-American War.In 1946, newspaperman Damon Runyon, known for his short stories featuring colorful Broadway denizens, died at a New York hospital at age 66.In 1950, Ralph J. Bunche was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the first Black American to receive the award.In 1967, singer Otis Redding, 26, and six others were killed when their plane crashed into Wisconsin's Lake Monona; trumpeter Ben Cauley, a member of the group the Bar-Kays, was the only survivor. In 1987, President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev concluded three days of summit talks in Washington. Violinist Jascha Heifetz died in Los Angeles at age 86. In 1994, Yasser Arafat, Shimon Peres and Yitzhak Rabin received the Nobel Peace Prize, pledging to pursue their mission of healing the anguished Middle East. In 1996, South African President Nelson Mandela signed the country's new constitution into law during a ceremony in Sharpeville. In 2007, suspended NFL star Michael Vick was sentenced by a federal judge in Richmond, Virginia, to 23 months in prison for bankrolling a dogfighting operation and killing dogs that underperformed (Vick served 19 months at Leavenworth). Former Vice President Al Gore accepted the Nobel Peace Prize with a call for humanity to rise up against a looming climate crisis and stop waging war on the environment. In 2009, President Barack Obama accepted the Nobel Peace Prize with a humble acknowledgment of his scant accomplishments and a robust defense of the U.S. at war. James Cameron's 3-D film epic "Avatar" had its world premiere in London.In 2013, South Africa held a memorial service for Nelson Mandela, during which U.S. President Barack Obama energized tens of thousands of spectators and nearly 100 visiting heads of state with a plea for the world to emulate "the last great liberator of the 20th century." (The ceremony was marred by the presence of a sign-language interpreter who deaf advocates said was an impostor waving his arms around meaninglessly.) General Motors named product chief Mary Barra its new CEO, making her the first woman to run a U.S. car company. Ten years ago: The Norwegian Nobel Committee honored Chinese literary critic Liu Xiaobo, imprisoned for urging political reform, by presenting his $1.4 million Nobel Peace Prize diploma and medal to an empty chair. A federal jury in Salt Lake City convicted street preacher Brian David Mitchell of kidnapping and raping Elizabeth Smart. (Mitchell was later sentenced to life in prison.)Five years ago: The Senate Judiciary Committee rebuked Donald Trump by endorsing a nonbinding amendment, 16-4, that said barring individuals from entering the United States based on religion would be un-American (the Republican presidential front-runner had called for blocking Muslims from entering the country in the aftermath of attacks in the United States and abroad.) One year ago: House Democrats announced two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump, declaring that he "betrayed the nation" with his actions toward Ukraine and an obstruction of Congress' investigation; Trump responded with a tweet of "WITCH HUNT!" At an evening rally in Pennsylvania, Trump mocked the impeachment effort and predicted it would lead to his reelection in 2020. House Democrats and the White House announced agreement on a modified North American trade pact to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement. A man and a woman burst into a kosher market in Jersey City, N.J., with assault weapons, killing three people in the store after earlier killing a police officer at a nearby cemetery; they then died in an hours-long exchange of gunfire with police. (Authorities said the pair acted out of hatred for Jews and law enforcement.) A Pennsylvania appeals court rejected Bill Cosby's bid to overturn his sexual assault conviction.Today's Birthdays: Actor Tommy Kirk is 79. Actor Fionnula Flanagan is 79. Pop singer Chad Stuart (Chad and Jeremy) is 79. Rhythm-and-blues singer Ralph Tavares is 79. Actor-singer Gloria Loring is 74. Pop-funk musician Walter "Clyde" Orange (The Commodores) is 74. Country singer Johnny Rodriguez is 69. Actor Susan Dey is 68. Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is 64. Jazz musician Paul Hardcastle is 63. Actor John York (TV: "General Hospital") is 62. Actor-director Kenneth Branagh is 60. Actor Nia Peeples is 59. TV chef Bobby Flay is 56. Rock singer-musician J Mascis is 55. Rock musician Scot Alexander (Dishwalla) is 49. Actor-comedian Arden Myrin is 47. Rock musician Meg White (The White Stripes) is 46. Actor Emmanuelle Chriqui is 45. Rapper Kuniva (D12) is 45. Actor Gavin Houston is 43. Actor Alano Miller is 41. Violinist Sarah Chang is 40. Actor Patrick John Flueger is 37. Country singer Meghan Linsey is 35. Actor Raven-Symone is 35. Actor/singer Teyana Taylor is 30. Actor Kiki Layne is 29.

Today in History -- Dec. 10

Congratulations to Diana Harden, Salina, the Week 13 winner in the Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Diana, who scored 13 out of 15, wins $100!

Although the season has started, you still have time to win!

<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up and play Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.

Throughout the season, Anesthesia Associates' Gridiron Glory on Salina Post gives you the opportunity to win weekly prizes.&nbsp;In addition to the weekly prizes, you can accumulate points throughout the pro football season toward winning the local grand prize of $1,000 and a national grand prize of a trip to Hawaii!

But remember: You can't win if you don't play! Are you up to the challenge? Play Anesthesia Associates'&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">Gridiron Glory</a>&nbsp;today!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599153961730.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Diana Harden, Salina, the Week 13 winner in the Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Diana, who scored 13 out of 15, wins $100!Although the season has started, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up and play Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.Throughout the season, Anesthesia Associates' Gridiron Glory on Salina Post gives you the opportunity to win weekly prizes.&nbsp;In addition to the weekly prizes, you can accumulate points throughout the pro football season toward winning the local grand prize of $1,000 and a national grand prize of a trip to Hawaii!But remember: You can't win if you don't play! Are you up to the challenge? Play Anesthesia Associates'&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">Gridiron Glory</a>&nbsp;today!

Gridiron Glory: Congrats Diana Harden!

In January, the IRS Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program will be expanded to all taxpayers who can properly verify their identity.

An identity pretention PIN is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent their Social Security number from being used to file fraudulent federal income tax returns. This number helps the IRS verify a taxpayer’s identity and accept their tax return. The online&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMDkuMzE4MDM5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2lkZW50aXR5LXRoZWZ0LWZyYXVkLXNjYW1zL3RoZS1pZGVudGl0eS1wcm90ZWN0aW9uLXBpbi1pcC1waW4ifQ.jFAXtKS_aTh1G24LYXdMP_KnJqzG-4iiu1sT5aOUNIw/s/1260222507/br/91352978412-l" target="_blank">Get An IP PIN</a>&nbsp;tool immediately displays the taxpayer’s assigned number.

This tool uses Secure Access authentication verify a person’s identity. Taxpayers should review the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMDkuMzE4MDM5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3NlY3VyZWFjY2VzcyJ9.8X9uvb-uqKUEz5mwcRDnntNzb2zx0f3D6R0D1CuC28Y/s/1260222507/br/91352978412-l" target="_blank">Secure Access requirements</a>&nbsp;before they try to use the&nbsp;Get An IP PIN&nbsp;tool.

Other ways to get an IP PIN There are other ways to get an IP PIN if someone is unable to pass the Secure Access authentication. Taxpayers with income of $72,000 or less should complete Form 15227 and mail or fax it to the IRS. An IRS employee will call the taxpayer to verify their identity using a series of questions. Those who pass authentication will receive an IP PIN the following tax year.

Taxpayers who cannot verify their identities remotely or who are ineligible to file Form 15277 should make an appointment, visit a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMDkuMzE4MDM5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2hlbHAvY29udGFjdC15b3VyLWxvY2FsLWlycy1vZmZpY2UifQ.CdlPJix214r2L2AIrUxgmiEJ5O37D1j7z2z6i5qof4Y/s/1260222507/br/91352978412-l" target="_blank">Taxpayer Assistance Center</a>&nbsp;and bring two forms of picture identification. This is an in-person identity verification. After the taxpayer passes authentication, an IP PIN will be mailed to them within three weeks.

Taxpayers should never share their IP PIN with anyone but their tax provider. The IRS will never call to request the taxpayer’s IP PIN, and taxpayers must be alert to potential IP PIN scams. Here’s what taxpayers need to know before applying:

●The&nbsp;Get an IP PIN&nbsp;tool will be available in mid-January.

●This is the preferred method of obtaining an IP PIN and the only one that immediately reveals the PIN to the taxpayer.

●Taxpayers who want to voluntarily opt into the IP PIN program don’t need to file a Form 14039,&nbsp;Identity Theft Affidavit.

●The number is valid for one year. Each January, the taxpayer must get a new one.

●It must be entered correctly on electronic and paper tax returns to avoid rejections and delays.

●Taxpayers with either a Social Security Number or Individual Tax Identification Number who can verify their identity are eligible for the program.

●Any primary or secondary taxpayer or dependent can get an IP PIN, if they can prove their identity.

●The IRS plans to offer an opt out feature to the IP PIN program in 2022.

Confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft There is no change in the IP PIN Program for confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft. These taxpayers should still file a Form 14039 if their e-filed tax return rejects because of a duplicate SSN filing. The IRS will investigate their case and once the fraudulent tax return is removed from their account, they will automatically receive an IP PIN by mail at the start of the next calendar year.

IP PINs will be mailed annually to confirmed victims and participants enrolled before 2019. For security reasons, confirmed identity theft victims can’t opt out of the IP PIN program. Confirmed victims also can use the&nbsp;Get an IP PIN&nbsp;tool to retrieve lost IP PINs assigned to them.

In January, the IRS Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program will be expanded to all taxpayers who can properly verify their identity.An identity pretention PIN is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent their Social Security number from being used to file fraudulent federal income tax returns. This number helps the IRS verify a taxpayer’s identity and accept their tax return. The online&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMDkuMzE4MDM5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2lkZW50aXR5LXRoZWZ0LWZyYXVkLXNjYW1zL3RoZS1pZGVudGl0eS1wcm90ZWN0aW9uLXBpbi1pcC1waW4ifQ.jFAXtKS_aTh1G24LYXdMP_KnJqzG-4iiu1sT5aOUNIw/s/1260222507/br/91352978412-l" target="_blank">Get An IP PIN</a>&nbsp;tool immediately displays the taxpayer’s assigned number.This tool uses Secure Access authentication verify a person’s identity. Taxpayers should review the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMDkuMzE4MDM5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3NlY3VyZWFjY2VzcyJ9.8X9uvb-uqKUEz5mwcRDnntNzb2zx0f3D6R0D1CuC28Y/s/1260222507/br/91352978412-l" target="_blank">Secure Access requirements</a>&nbsp;before they try to use the&nbsp;Get An IP PIN&nbsp;tool.Other ways to get an IP PIN There are other ways to get an IP PIN if someone is unable to pass the Secure Access authentication. Taxpayers with income of $72,000 or less should complete Form 15227 and mail or fax it to the IRS. An IRS employee will call the taxpayer to verify their identity using a series of questions. Those who pass authentication will receive an IP PIN the following tax year.Taxpayers who cannot verify their identities remotely or who are ineligible to file Form 15277 should make an appointment, visit a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMDkuMzE4MDM5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2hlbHAvY29udGFjdC15b3VyLWxvY2FsLWlycy1vZmZpY2UifQ.CdlPJix214r2L2AIrUxgmiEJ5O37D1j7z2z6i5qof4Y/s/1260222507/br/91352978412-l" target="_blank">Taxpayer Assistance Center</a>&nbsp;and bring two forms of picture identification. This is an in-person identity verification. After the taxpayer passes authentication, an IP PIN will be mailed to them within three weeks.Taxpayers should never share their IP PIN with anyone but their tax provider. The IRS will never call to request the taxpayer’s IP PIN, and taxpayers must be alert to potential IP PIN scams. Here’s what taxpayers need to know before applying:●The&nbsp;Get an IP PIN&nbsp;tool will be available in mid-January.●This is the preferred method of obtaining an IP PIN and the only one that immediately reveals the PIN to the taxpayer.●Taxpayers who want to voluntarily opt into the IP PIN program don’t need to file a Form 14039,&nbsp;Identity Theft Affidavit.●The number is valid for one year. Each January, the taxpayer must get a new one.●It must be entered correctly on electronic and paper tax returns to avoid rejections and delays.●Taxpayers with either a Social Security Number or Individual Tax Identification Number who can verify their identity are eligible for the program.●Any primary or secondary taxpayer or dependent can get an IP PIN, if they can prove their identity.●The IRS plans to offer an opt out feature to the IP PIN program in 2022.Confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft There is no change in the IP PIN Program for confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft. These taxpayers should still file a Form 14039 if their e-filed tax return rejects because of a duplicate SSN filing. The IRS will investigate their case and once the fraudulent tax return is removed from their account, they will automatically receive an IP PIN by mail at the start of the next calendar year.IP PINs will be mailed annually to confirmed victims and participants enrolled before 2019. For security reasons, confirmed identity theft victims can’t opt out of the IP PIN program. Confirmed victims also can use the&nbsp;Get an IP PIN&nbsp;tool to retrieve lost IP PINs assigned to them.

IRS: Identity protection PIN program will soon be available to taxpayers

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 81 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, bringing the county total to 1,860. 

Of that total, 1055 have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died and 10 of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department noted.

Following is the updated case data as reported by the health department.

• New cases since last public release: 81

• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 53

• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 6

&nbsp; &nbsp;-Male cases age: 86, 90, 96, 78, 90, 81, 66, 39

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 81 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, bringing the county total to 1,860. Of that total, 1055 have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died and 10 of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department noted.Following is the updated case data as reported by the health department.• New cases since last public release: 81• Asymptomatic: 51• Cases with unknown exposure: 843• Cases 60 years old and above: 586• Cases 50-59 years old: 260• Cases 40-49 years old: 232• Cases 30-39 years old: 233• Cases 18-29 years old: 379• Cases under 18 years old: 170• Female cases: 968• Male cases: 892• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 53• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 6• Deaths: 10 (1 pending)&nbsp; &nbsp;-Male cases age: 86, 90, 96, 78, 90, 81, 66, 39&nbsp; &nbsp;-Female cases age: 92, 89

McPherson County reports 81 new cases of COVID-19

Following is Wednesday's Saline County COVID-19 update:

Sadly, we have been notified of eight additional deaths related to COVID-19, which brings the total number of deaths in Saline County to 42. There are 166 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County since our last update on December 7.&nbsp; The total number of positive cases for Saline County is now 3087 with 1115 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,930 that have recovered. Salina Regional Health Center notified us that they currently have 31 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information: ●Mobile Device Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>

●Desktop Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0?" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0?</a> This is an ever-evolving situation. Please continue to follow official sources to obtain the most accurate information possible. If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless at least five days have passed and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. However, Health Department staff continue to be overwhelmed and several days behind with contacting new positive cases and close contacts and we are unable to produce the necessary documentation immediately. We have added staff and some cases being routed to contact tracers at KDHE, but with cases rising every day we continue to be behind. Thank you for your patience. According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 179,803 cases and 1,941 deaths statewide. This information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>. Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please: 1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water. 2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more. 3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective. 4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments). 5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc. 6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse. Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus%3Chttp://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607547029691.jpeg" alt="201209 COVID Update.jpg" />
 <figcaption>201209 COVID Update.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Following is Wednesday's Saline County COVID-19 update:Sadly, we have been notified of eight additional deaths related to COVID-19, which brings the total number of deaths in Saline County to 42. There are 166 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County since our last update on December 7.&nbsp; The total number of positive cases for Saline County is now 3087 with 1115 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,930 that have recovered. Salina Regional Health Center notified us that they currently have 31 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information: ●Mobile Device Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a> ●Desktop Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0?" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0?</a> This is an ever-evolving situation. Please continue to follow official sources to obtain the most accurate information possible. If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless at least five days have passed and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. However, Health Department staff continue to be overwhelmed and several days behind with contacting new positive cases and close contacts and we are unable to produce the necessary documentation immediately. We have added staff and some cases being routed to contact tracers at KDHE, but with cases rising every day we continue to be behind. Thank you for your patience. According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 179,803 cases and 1,941 deaths statewide. This information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>. Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please: 1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water. 2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more. 3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective. 4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments). 5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc. 6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse. Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus%3Chttp://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saline County: 8 additional deaths, 166 new COVID-19 cases

On Tuesday, the KSHSAA Board of Directors revised the organization's&nbsp; fan attendance guidance. 

Effective Thursday through Jan. 28, 2021, interscholastic activities will allow for attendance of up to two parents/guardians per participant(s) family as allowed by local board of education or health department restrictions.

As a result of this decision, USD 305 will adopt the following procedures regarding spectators. These procedures will apply to all two-team events.

●Each home and visiting participant will be allowed two tickets for their parent/guardian to use. The tickets must be used by an adult parent or guardian of their child. Tickets will not be shared. If the parent/guardian does not use the ticket then the tickets are not used.

●Participants include players, managers, cheerleaders and dance team members.

●Parents/guardians may attend their participant’s game only and should arrive right before the contest and exit the facility once their child is done participating.

●Every person entering the facility must wear a face covering properly the entire time they are at the event. Parents/guardians from different households should social distance from each other.

Visiting participants will NOT be provided tickets to multi-team competitions which could include bowling, swimming and diving, and wrestling tournaments. Because these events involve students competing against multiple school teams at the same time, visiting parents/guardians are not allowed at these events.

USD 305 will continue to work with the Saline County Health Department to monitor community status. Please help us protect education and opportunities for our students by remaining vigilant in practicing safety precautions such as:

●Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.

●Maintain social distancing of six feet.

●Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue (and throw the tissue in the trash) or upper sleeve.

●Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

●Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

●Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others.

On Tuesday, the KSHSAA Board of Directors revised the organization's&nbsp; fan attendance guidance. Effective Thursday through Jan. 28, 2021, interscholastic activities will allow for attendance of up to two parents/guardians per participant(s) family as allowed by local board of education or health department restrictions.As a result of this decision, USD 305 will adopt the following procedures regarding spectators. These procedures will apply to all two-team events.●Each home and visiting participant will be allowed two tickets for their parent/guardian to use. The tickets must be used by an adult parent or guardian of their child. Tickets will not be shared. If the parent/guardian does not use the ticket then the tickets are not used.●Participants include players, managers, cheerleaders and dance team members.●Parents/guardians may attend their participant’s game only and should arrive right before the contest and exit the facility once their child is done participating.●Every person entering the facility must wear a face covering properly the entire time they are at the event. Parents/guardians from different households should social distance from each other.Visiting participants will NOT be provided tickets to multi-team competitions which could include bowling, swimming and diving, and wrestling tournaments. Because these events involve students competing against multiple school teams at the same time, visiting parents/guardians are not allowed at these events.USD 305 will continue to work with the Saline County Health Department to monitor community status. Please help us protect education and opportunities for our students by remaining vigilant in practicing safety precautions such as:●Wear a mask properly.●Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.●Maintain social distancing of six feet.●Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue (and throw the tissue in the trash) or upper sleeve.●Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.●Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.●Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others.

USD 305 adjusts fan attendance procedures following KSHSAA changes

A Saline County resident has just claimed an instant 
ticket prize of $250,000. The player, who wished to remain anonymous, 
won the prize on the Kansas Lottery’s $30 Premier Cash ticket.

The winner described the huge win as “truly a blessing” and a “life 
changing event.” After “experiencing the shock of scratching the winning
 ticket, I have tears of joy!” the Saline County resident added.

The winning ticket was sold at Dillons 41 at 1201 W. Crawford in Salina. There is one top prize of $250,000 prize remaining in the <a href="https://www.kslottery.com/games/instants/?gameid=180">$30 Premier Cash</a> instant game, plus thousands in other prizes.

--<a href="https://www.kslottery.com/">Kansas Lottery</a>--

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592536149457.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Saline County resident has just claimed an instant 
ticket prize of $250,000. The player, who wished to remain anonymous, 
won the prize on the Kansas Lottery’s $30 Premier Cash ticket.The winner described the huge win as “truly a blessing” and a “life 
changing event.” After “experiencing the shock of scratching the winning
 ticket, I have tears of joy!” the Saline County resident added.The winning ticket was sold at Dillons 41 at 1201 W. Crawford in Salina. There is one top prize of $250,000 prize remaining in the <a href="https://www.kslottery.com/games/instants/?gameid=180">$30 Premier Cash</a> instant game, plus thousands in other prizes.--<a href="https://www.kslottery.com/">Kansas Lottery</a>--

Saline Co. resident wins $250,000 in Kansas Lottery

MANHATTAN — Now more than ever, consumers are looking to build relationships and buy their food direct from the source. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host a series of informational webinars in early January 2021 to provide information about direct-to-consumer meat sales. 

“Adding direct-to-consumer sales can be an option to diversify farm income,” said Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam. “We are pleased to provide innovative programing and educational opportunities to help Kansas’ farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses grow and expand market options and continue to serve as economic engines in their communities.”

During the week of Jan. 4, KDA will be offering a webinar series designed to provide more insight in the direct-to-consumer business model. This five-part webinar series will be held daily, Jan. 4–8, from noon to 1 p.m., and will feature meat marketing and regulatory experts. This series is designed for those who wish to sell direct-to-consumer. In addition, KDA will host a second one-part webinar which will be focused on information for consumers and will address their questions about direct purchases of meat products. It will be held on Jan. 6, from 7-8 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Throughout the first webinar series,&nbsp;Kansas Meat Marketing Basics: Putting you a Cut Above, participants will learn the basics of starting a farm to fork business, including discussions about naming your business, product selection, pricing, social media marketing, regulatory considerations and more. The series will feature presentations by Rachel Cutrer, Ranch House Designs, Inc. and B.R. Cutrer, Inc.; Danette Amstein and Myasia Burns, Midan Marketing;&nbsp;<a>and Dr. Liz Boyle with Kansas State University’s value-added meats program.</a>

At the second webinar,&nbsp;Clearing the Confusion: Meat Marketing Consumer Basics,&nbsp;participants will learn about basic meat science and meat processing and will receive recipes and resources for consumers to utilize cuts of beef. Guest speakers will include Collette Kaster, American Meat Science Association; Chad Bontrager, Yoder Meats, Bowser Meat Processing and Heartland Meat Market; and a representative from the Kansas Beef Council.

Registration is now open for both the webinar series and the consumer webinar, and there is no cost to participate. You can participate in one or more of the webinars, as the speakers and content will be different for each session. Find detailed agendas and register at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FBusinessDevelopment&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C324474b0dd034bd36bcc08d89c535ec9%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637431229647078529%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=XQl7K0G4h2onmltpHvbzB6X1G1JU42hJ10vwER2MBVY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/BusinessDevelopment</a>.

MANHATTAN — Now more than ever, consumers are looking to build relationships and buy their food direct from the source. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host a series of informational webinars in early January 2021 to provide information about direct-to-consumer meat sales. “Adding direct-to-consumer sales can be an option to diversify farm income,” said Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam. “We are pleased to provide innovative programing and educational opportunities to help Kansas’ farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses grow and expand market options and continue to serve as economic engines in their communities.”During the week of Jan. 4, KDA will be offering a webinar series designed to provide more insight in the direct-to-consumer business model. This five-part webinar series will be held daily, Jan. 4–8, from noon to 1 p.m., and will feature meat marketing and regulatory experts. This series is designed for those who wish to sell direct-to-consumer. In addition, KDA will host a second one-part webinar which will be focused on information for consumers and will address their questions about direct purchases of meat products. It will be held on Jan. 6, from 7-8 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the first webinar series,&nbsp;Kansas Meat Marketing Basics: Putting you a Cut Above, participants will learn the basics of starting a farm to fork business, including discussions about naming your business, product selection, pricing, social media marketing, regulatory considerations and more. The series will feature presentations by Rachel Cutrer, Ranch House Designs, Inc. and B.R. Cutrer, Inc.; Danette Amstein and Myasia Burns, Midan Marketing;&nbsp;<a>and Dr. Liz Boyle with Kansas State University’s value-added meats program.</a>At the second webinar,&nbsp;Clearing the Confusion: Meat Marketing Consumer Basics,&nbsp;participants will learn about basic meat science and meat processing and will receive recipes and resources for consumers to utilize cuts of beef. Guest speakers will include Collette Kaster, American Meat Science Association; Chad Bontrager, Yoder Meats, Bowser Meat Processing and Heartland Meat Market; and a representative from the Kansas Beef Council.Registration is now open for both the webinar series and the consumer webinar, and there is no cost to participate. You can participate in one or more of the webinars, as the speakers and content will be different for each session. Find detailed agendas and register at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FBusinessDevelopment&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C324474b0dd034bd36bcc08d89c535ec9%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637431229647078529%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=XQl7K0G4h2onmltpHvbzB6X1G1JU42hJ10vwER2MBVY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/BusinessDevelopment</a>.--KDA--

KDA to offer direct-to-consumer meat marketing, consumer webinars

Remembering St. John's Military School alum and Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper&nbsp;John B. McMurray. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kshighwayPatrol">Kansas Highway Patrol</a> Facebook page:

Remembering St. John's Military School alum and Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper&nbsp;John B. McMurray. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kshighwayPatrol">Kansas Highway Patrol</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FkshighwayPatrol%2Fposts%2F3659876484078030&show_text=true&width=552&height=527&appId" width="552" height="527" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

KHP remembers Trooper John B. McMurray

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher This year, this week, we start our 103rd&nbsp;year at Kansas Farm Bureau having just finished our business session at our 102nd&nbsp;annual meeting. One hundred and three is a big number and a lot of years. Dare I say no year has been quite like the one we just finished up. Note that I did not say it was our hardest year. It was not even our first pandemic at Kansas Farm Bureau, but it was a year a lot of us would like to move past and put in the rearview mirror. Yes, there have been harder years in the ag community. Years of more extreme drought, heat, rain or pests. I am sure we have seen years with worse markets and more trying times. Maybe not, bad years and good years are so personal to each of us. If you were touched by COVID-19, 2020 may very well have been your worst year ever, and if that is the case, my heart goes out to you. My point is 2020 was not a good year, and I am sure that most of us hope that 2021 will be a much better one. The one thing I do know is those of us in agriculture have learned to deal with adversity and keep moving forward. We know how to absorb the blow of a bad year and pick ourselves up and keep, keeping on. That is what we do, that is who we are and that is why agriculture is the backbone of the United States. What will 2021 look like? Who knows? I have seen long-range forecasts, but I do not put much faith in them. As far as the pandemic goes, we have no idea, even the experts are split on what the next 12 months will look like. But I do know this. We will plant the next crop this spring, we will help new lambs, calves, pigs, goats, chickens and horses come into this world. We will persevere with the faith of a farmer and rancher because that is what we do. We will go to the field and to the pasture with the same optimism that our parents and grandparents carried with them, even through the toughest of times. I also know Kansas Farm Bureau will be right there alongside us making sure our voices are heard in Washington D.C. and Topeka. That voice is one each of us have a note in, coming up from the grassroots and making sure those of us who feed the world are heard. No, I had no idea what was ahead of us at this time last year, but we made it through it, and I have no idea what is ahead of us in 2021. We will change and adapt just like we have for the previous 102 years, and we can all be proud knowing that we are part of an organization leading the way when it comes to ensuring our farms and ranches survive and thrive no matter what the year brings.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher This year, this week, we start our 103rd&nbsp;year at Kansas Farm Bureau having just finished our business session at our 102nd&nbsp;annual meeting. One hundred and three is a big number and a lot of years. Dare I say no year has been quite like the one we just finished up. Note that I did not say it was our hardest year. It was not even our first pandemic at Kansas Farm Bureau, but it was a year a lot of us would like to move past and put in the rearview mirror. Yes, there have been harder years in the ag community. Years of more extreme drought, heat, rain or pests. I am sure we have seen years with worse markets and more trying times. Maybe not, bad years and good years are so personal to each of us. If you were touched by COVID-19, 2020 may very well have been your worst year ever, and if that is the case, my heart goes out to you. My point is 2020 was not a good year, and I am sure that most of us hope that 2021 will be a much better one. The one thing I do know is those of us in agriculture have learned to deal with adversity and keep moving forward. We know how to absorb the blow of a bad year and pick ourselves up and keep, keeping on. That is what we do, that is who we are and that is why agriculture is the backbone of the United States. What will 2021 look like? Who knows? I have seen long-range forecasts, but I do not put much faith in them. As far as the pandemic goes, we have no idea, even the experts are split on what the next 12 months will look like. But I do know this. We will plant the next crop this spring, we will help new lambs, calves, pigs, goats, chickens and horses come into this world. We will persevere with the faith of a farmer and rancher because that is what we do. We will go to the field and to the pasture with the same optimism that our parents and grandparents carried with them, even through the toughest of times. I also know Kansas Farm Bureau will be right there alongside us making sure our voices are heard in Washington D.C. and Topeka. That voice is one each of us have a note in, coming up from the grassroots and making sure those of us who feed the world are heard. No, I had no idea what was ahead of us at this time last year, but we made it through it, and I have no idea what is ahead of us in 2021. We will change and adapt just like we have for the previous 102 years, and we can all be proud knowing that we are part of an organization leading the way when it comes to ensuring our farms and ranches survive and thrive no matter what the year brings."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Moving Forward

Sacred Heart High School junior, Alyssa Mikkelson, recently won first chair trumpet in the KMEA North Central District Honor Band. 

This district encompasses all schools in the following counties: Republic, Cloud, Ottawa, Saline, Washington, Clay, Dickinson, Marshall, Pottawatomie, Riley, Geary, Wabaunsee, Morris, Chase and Lyon. 

Alyssa will audition for All State Honor Band in January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607480499970.jpeg" alt="Alyssa Mikkelson with Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School band director, Dr. Richard Koshgarian." />
 <figcaption>Alyssa Mikkelson with Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School band director, Dr. Richard Koshgarian.</figcaption>
 </figure>Sacred Heart High School junior, Alyssa Mikkelson, recently won first chair trumpet in the KMEA North Central District Honor Band. This district encompasses all schools in the following counties: Republic, Cloud, Ottawa, Saline, Washington, Clay, Dickinson, Marshall, Pottawatomie, Riley, Geary, Wabaunsee, Morris, Chase and Lyon. Alyssa will audition for All State Honor Band in January.

Sacred Heart High School's Mikkelson wins 1st at KMEA district

More unlocked vehicles fell victim to a burglar, this time in west Salina Tuesday night.

More unlocked vehicles fell victim to a burglar, this time in west Salina Tuesday night.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that sometime between 5:45-10:30 p.m. Tuesday, someone entered three vehicles parked in a driveway in the 1600 block of Redwood Drive. Jeremy Alvord, 44, of Salina, told police that his Chevrolet Silverado pickup was the only vehicle that had something missing, Forrester explained. A Ruger LC95 9mm handgun, valued at $350, was taken, he noted. According to Forrester, Alvord's other vehicle and his girlfriend's vehicle had been gone through, but nothing was taken.The vehicles were unlocked and no damage was done to them, Forrester added.