Mahaska is seeking an Equipment Sales and Service Technician.&nbsp;

This position entails servicing equipment at existing accounts by analyzing work orders, investigating complaints, conducting tests, and resolving problems.

Must have the ability to troubleshoot electronics, have excellent communication, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Applicant must have a good driving record. 

A comprehensive benefits package is available with this position.

Apply at <a href="http://Mahaska.com/careers">Mahaska.com/careers</a>.

Mahaska is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Mahaska is seeking an Equipment Sales and Service Technician.&nbsp;This position entails servicing equipment at existing accounts by analyzing work orders, investigating complaints, conducting tests, and resolving problems.Must have the ability to troubleshoot electronics, have excellent communication, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Applicant must have a good driving record. A comprehensive benefits package is available with this position.Apply at <a href="http://Mahaska.com/careers">Mahaska.com/careers</a>.Mahaska is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Carl R. Ice College of Engineering ambassadors named

PEORIA, Ill. -- April Dickey, of Salina, graduated with a degree in MSN Family Nurse Practitioner from Bradley University during the December commencement exercises.

Dickey was among nearly 300 students who received degrees.

Bradley University is a top-ranked, private university in Peoria, Ill., offering 5,400 undergraduate and graduate students the resources of a larger university and the personal attention of a smaller university. More than 185 academic programs are offered in business, communications, education, engineering, fine arts, health sciences, liberal arts and sciences, and technology.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579727660181.jpeg" alt="Graduation photo courtesy Bradley University" />
 <figcaption>Graduation photo courtesy Bradley University</figcaption>
 </figure>PEORIA, Ill. -- April Dickey, of Salina, graduated with a degree in MSN Family Nurse Practitioner from Bradley University during the December commencement exercises.Dickey was among nearly 300 students who received degrees.Bradley University is a top-ranked, private university in Peoria, Ill., offering 5,400 undergraduate and graduate students the resources of a larger university and the personal attention of a smaller university. More than 185 academic programs are offered in business, communications, education, engineering, fine arts, health sciences, liberal arts and sciences, and technology.

Salina's Dickey graduates from Bradley University

By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/4-ways-medicaid-expansion-opponents-kansas-might-still-sink-deal#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA — Medicaid expansion is a done deal, right?

Democratic
 Gov. Laura Kelly and Jim Denning, the second most powerful Republican 
in the Kansas Senate, have compromised on a plan. Together, they bring a
 majority of lawmakers with them. So, game over.

Sure, the deal 
still needs to clear the Legislature and get the blessing of federal 
regulators. But the hard part — breaking an almost decade-long stalemate
 on the issue — looks done.

Expansion supporters finally have 
reason to believe that an estimated 130,000 to 150,000 more low-income 
Kansans will soon have taxpayer-funded health coverage.

A
 relatively small but committed group of lawmakers could still slow — 
theoretically, even kill — the deal. They could continue their fight by 
simply amending the Medicaid expansion legislation to pick apart the 
terms of the compromise.

Their first chance comes this Thursday 
when the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee starts hearings on 
the compromise bill.

Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop chairs the 
committee, where expansion opponents hold a numbers advantage they don’t
 have in the full Senate. Suellentrop expects them to tack on several 
amendments. It’s their chance to weigh in on that Kelly-Denning bargain,
 or what he calls a “kind of a side-negotiated deal.”

Here are four things that opponents could add to upset the carefully balanced compromise:

Expansion supporters say 
they’re prepared to strip such deal-changers out during debate on the 
Senate floor. With 22 of the Senate’s 40 members signed on as cosponsors
 of the bill, they’re confident they have the votes to clean it up.

Even
 so, Denning is concerned about efforts to undo the compromise. In a 
lengthy statement this week, he criticized conservative Republicans for 
leveling “relentless attacks” at the plan.

“Anyone can count the 
votes and see that Medicaid expansion is going to happen,” Denning said.
 “Compromise is a part of leadership and I am proud of the plan that 
Governor Kelly and I have agreed upon.”

If the expansion deal clears the Senate relatively intact, it could still face hurdles in the House.

Most
 House members support expansion, but Republican leaders don’t. Those 
leaders are threatening to hold expansion bill hostage for leverage over
 another hot-button issue: abortion. That’s a potential fifth way to 
derail the Medicaid compromise.

Jim McLean is the senior 
correspondent for the Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, 
Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on 
health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public
 policy. You can reach him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/jmcleanks">@jmcleanks</a> or email jim@kcur .org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579714677583.jpeg" alt=" Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop, left, will chair hearings on a compromise Medicaid expansion plan starting this week. Daniel Caudill / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop, left, will chair hearings on a compromise Medicaid expansion plan starting this week. Daniel Caudill / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/4-ways-medicaid-expansion-opponents-kansas-might-still-sink-deal#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA — Medicaid expansion is a done deal, right?Democratic
 Gov. Laura Kelly and Jim Denning, the second most powerful Republican 
in the Kansas Senate, have compromised on a plan. Together, they bring a
 majority of lawmakers with them. So, game over.Sure, the deal 
still needs to clear the Legislature and get the blessing of federal 
regulators. But the hard part — breaking an almost decade-long stalemate
 on the issue — looks done.Expansion supporters finally have 
reason to believe that an estimated 130,000 to 150,000 more low-income 
Kansans will soon have taxpayer-funded health coverage.Probably. But not necessarily.A
 relatively small but committed group of lawmakers could still slow — 
theoretically, even kill — the deal. They could continue their fight by 
simply amending the Medicaid expansion legislation to pick apart the 
terms of the compromise.Their first chance comes this Thursday 
when the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee starts hearings on 
the compromise bill.Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop chairs the 
committee, where expansion opponents hold a numbers advantage they don’t
 have in the full Senate. Suellentrop expects them to tack on several 
amendments. It’s their chance to weigh in on that Kelly-Denning bargain,
 or what he calls a “kind of a side-negotiated deal.”Here are four things that opponents could add to upset the carefully balanced compromise:<ul>
 <li>A
 work requirement: Conservatives say requiring non-disabled adults to 
get a job or prove they’re looking for one promotes accountability. 
Kelly says studies show that work requirements cost too much to run and 
mistakenly deny coverage to some. Federal regulators and the courts have
 blocked work requirements in some states.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>&nbsp;Higher 
premiums: Under the compromise, people earning between 100% and 138% of 
the federal poverty level ($25,750 to $35,535 for a family of four) 
would need to pay monthly premiums. Up to $25 for individuals, no more 
than $100 for a family. Increasing those premiums could jeopardize 
federal approval land the state in court.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>&nbsp;Non-payment
 penalties: Previous expansion plans would have penalized people for not
 their premiums by “locking them out” of coverage. Lockout periods in 
those proposals ranged from several months to a lifetime. Kelly and 
expansion supporters oppose such penalties and say they could also 
jeopardize federal approval.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Partial coverage: The 
position Denning started with would have expanded Medicaid only to those
 at or below the poverty line. He proposed giving subsidies to those 
making up to the eligibility threshold to help them purchase regular 
health insurance on the federal (Obamacare) exchange. Arguing that 
federal regulators would reject the two-tier approach, Kelly persuaded 
Denning to abandon the idea.</li>
 </ul>Expansion supporters say 
they’re prepared to strip such deal-changers out during debate on the 
Senate floor. With 22 of the Senate’s 40 members signed on as cosponsors
 of the bill, they’re confident they have the votes to clean it up.Even
 so, Denning is concerned about efforts to undo the compromise. In a 
lengthy statement this week, he criticized conservative Republicans for 
leveling “relentless attacks” at the plan.“Anyone can count the 
votes and see that Medicaid expansion is going to happen,” Denning said.
 “Compromise is a part of leadership and I am proud of the plan that 
Governor Kelly and I have agreed upon.”If the expansion deal clears the Senate relatively intact, it could still face hurdles in the House.Most
 House members support expansion, but Republican leaders don’t. Those 
leaders are threatening to hold expansion bill hostage for leverage over
 another hot-button issue: abortion. That’s a potential fifth way to 
derail the Medicaid compromise.Jim McLean is the senior 
correspondent for the Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, 
Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on 
health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public
 policy. You can reach him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/jmcleanks">@jmcleanks</a> or email jim@kcur .org.

 4 ways Medicaid expansion opponents in Kan. might sink deal 

A dense fog advisory has been issued for counties in our area.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a dense fog advisory in effect until 6 a.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

Visibility of one quarter mile or less in dense fog is expected. 

Driving conditions will be hazardous due to low visibility. If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579738858234.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A dense fog advisory has been issued for counties in our area.The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a dense fog advisory in effect until 6 a.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyVisibility of one quarter mile or less in dense fog is expected. Driving conditions will be hazardous due to low visibility. If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.

Dense fog advisory in effect for 5 counties in our area

SIOUX FALLS, SD -- Augustana University has announced that Amanda Whitacre of McPherson has been named to the Dean's List for the fall semester of the 2019-20 academic year.

The Dean's List recognizes full-time students who have a minimum of 12 credit hours with grade-point averages at 3.5 or above.

Founded in 1860, Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a selective, comprehensive university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. With more than 100 majors, minors and pre-professional programs for undergraduates, along with graduate degree and continuing education programs - Augustana is committed to enriching lives and fostering development by combining a foundation in the liberal arts with professional skill and advanced study.

SIOUX FALLS, SD -- Augustana University has announced that Amanda Whitacre of McPherson has been named to the Dean's List for the fall semester of the 2019-20 academic year.The Dean's List recognizes full-time students who have a minimum of 12 credit hours with grade-point averages at 3.5 or above.Founded in 1860, Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a selective, comprehensive university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. With more than 100 majors, minors and pre-professional programs for undergraduates, along with graduate degree and continuing education programs - Augustana is committed to enriching lives and fostering development by combining a foundation in the liberal arts with professional skill and advanced study.

McPherson's Whitacre named to Augustana Dean's List

The Saline County Commissioners on Tuesday approved more than $670,000 to be used for work on a portion of West Water Well Road.

During their regular meeting on Tuesday, commissioners approved spending $673,901.63 on the stretch of West Water Well Road from South Burma Road to South Lightville Road, according to information from Saline County. Included in the project are ditch grading, re-shaping the roadbed, and applying six inches of aggregate and four inches of asphalt, the county information noted. 

Work on the project can begin as soon as winter weather is over, and it is estimated that the project will be completed by the beginning of July 2020, the county noted.

Commissioners also approved the Saline County Health Department accepting a Kansas Overdose Data to Action Program Grant in the amount of $23,721. The grant program "is focused local prevention initiatives for opioid misuse, abuse, dependence, and fatal/non-fatal overdoses. The first year of this grant will focus on coalition building of community partners and community assessments to determine next steps to be taken in future project years," the county information noted.

An agreement with Salina Area Technical College that was approved Tuesday will allow for some current county employees to become Commercial Driver's License (CDL) trainers, according to information from the county. "Due to the new regulations through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, individuals who wish to obtain their CDL must complete mandated theory training as well as an entry-level drivers training course. This agreement will allow for prospective employees of the County who do not have their CDL to attend the course at Salina Tech and receive the necessary driver training to obtain their license," the county information explained.

Commissioners also heard a yearly update from Rebecca Seeman, register of deeds. According to information from the county, Seeman reported that fees totaling $567,757 were collected in 2019. Additionally, a total of 1,381 passports were processed, 2,071 deeds were recorded, 29,441 pages were archived, and 1,848 mortgages recorded, the county information noted.

A monthly update of the pre-trial program also was presented. Andrew Pellant, pre-trial coordinator, told commissioners that 27 placements into the program were made in December. Since the program began in April of last year, 330 people have been placed in it. Currently, 120 people are actively being supervised through the program, 21 are in custody, 119 have either had their charges dismissed or have been sentenced, and 70 have had their pre-trial bond revoked, according to meeting information provided by the county. Of those 70 people, eight picked up news alleged charges and 62 had bond revoked because they failed to appear in court, the county information noted.

Commissioners also dealt with a number of other issues, including the following, according to information provided by the county.

Approved the transfer of $30,000 from the Register of Deeds Technology Fund to the Land Records Technology Fund to assist in the payment for a GIS flyover of the county in 2020.

Approved the purchase of 40 Dell computers in the amount of $19,785.20.

Approved the acceptance of an additional $8,583 in grant funds from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that will be used to help offset salaries of staff in the Family Planning program.

Approved acceptance of membership with the Kansas Health Information Network so that the Saline County Health Department can share disease investigation information with other healthcare providers in the area through a secure network. There is no cost to the County for this membership.

Approved ComplianceOne being the clearinghouse for Saline County to use to perform yearly violation checks on all CDL license holders.

Approved the purchase of a 2020 Kenworth T370 single-axle dump truck for the Road &amp; Bridge Department in the amount of $78,100.

Approved the purchase of pipe culverts, bands, and galvanized bridge decking in the total amount of $95,915.05.

Approved the bid awards for road aggregate materials and aggregate hauling for the 2020 year.

Heard the human resources department bi-monthly update on employment, workers compensation claims, and other miscellaneous items.

Heard the fourth quarter Engineering Department update with reports on 2018 projects that are remaining, 2019 projects that are remaining, and proposed 2020 projects.

The Saline County Commissioners on Tuesday approved more than $670,000 to be used for work on a portion of West Water Well Road.During their regular meeting on Tuesday, commissioners approved spending $673,901.63 on the stretch of West Water Well Road from South Burma Road to South Lightville Road, according to information from Saline County. Included in the project are ditch grading, re-shaping the roadbed, and applying six inches of aggregate and four inches of asphalt, the county information noted. Work on the project can begin as soon as winter weather is over, and it is estimated that the project will be completed by the beginning of July 2020, the county noted.Commissioners also approved the Saline County Health Department accepting a Kansas Overdose Data to Action Program Grant in the amount of $23,721. The grant program "is focused local prevention initiatives for opioid misuse, abuse, dependence, and fatal/non-fatal overdoses. The first year of this grant will focus on coalition building of community partners and community assessments to determine next steps to be taken in future project years," the county information noted.An agreement with Salina Area Technical College that was approved Tuesday will allow for some current county employees to become Commercial Driver's License (CDL) trainers, according to information from the county. "Due to the new regulations through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, individuals who wish to obtain their CDL must complete mandated theory training as well as an entry-level drivers training course. This agreement will allow for prospective employees of the County who do not have their CDL to attend the course at Salina Tech and receive the necessary driver training to obtain their license," the county information explained.Commissioners also heard a yearly update from Rebecca Seeman, register of deeds. According to information from the county, Seeman reported that fees totaling $567,757 were collected in 2019. Additionally, a total of 1,381 passports were processed, 2,071 deeds were recorded, 29,441 pages were archived, and 1,848 mortgages recorded, the county information noted.A monthly update of the pre-trial program also was presented. Andrew Pellant, pre-trial coordinator, told commissioners that 27 placements into the program were made in December. Since the program began in April of last year, 330 people have been placed in it. Currently, 120 people are actively being supervised through the program, 21 are in custody, 119 have either had their charges dismissed or have been sentenced, and 70 have had their pre-trial bond revoked, according to meeting information provided by the county. Of those 70 people, eight picked up news alleged charges and 62 had bond revoked because they failed to appear in court, the county information noted.Commissioners also dealt with a number of other issues, including the following, according to information provided by the county.Approved the transfer of $30,000 from the Register of Deeds Technology Fund to the Land Records Technology Fund to assist in the payment for a GIS flyover of the county in 2020.Approved the purchase of 40 Dell computers in the amount of $19,785.20.Approved the acceptance of an additional $8,583 in grant funds from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that will be used to help offset salaries of staff in the Family Planning program.Approved acceptance of membership with the Kansas Health Information Network so that the Saline County Health Department can share disease investigation information with other healthcare providers in the area through a secure network. There is no cost to the County for this membership.Approved ComplianceOne being the clearinghouse for Saline County to use to perform yearly violation checks on all CDL license holders.Approved the purchase of a 2020 Kenworth T370 single-axle dump truck for the Road &amp; Bridge Department in the amount of $78,100.Approved the purchase of pipe culverts, bands, and galvanized bridge decking in the total amount of $95,915.05.Approved the bid awards for road aggregate materials and aggregate hauling for the 2020 year.Heard the human resources department bi-monthly update on employment, workers compensation claims, and other miscellaneous items.Heard the fourth quarter Engineering Department update with reports on 2018 projects that are remaining, 2019 projects that are remaining, and proposed 2020 projects.

County commissioners OK more than $670,000 for Water Well Road work

What started as a stolen license plate report on Tuesday led investigators to a stolen car and another incident in September.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that on Tuesday, an officer was sent to the 2800 block of Linda Lane for the report of a stolen license plate. Justin Fischer, 28, reported that the license plate for his Ford Focus -- 582 FZZ -- and been stolen and replaced with another plate: 104 EDA, Forrester said. That replacement plate was traced back to a 1997 GMC Sierra owned by PKM Steel Service, Inc., 228 East Avenue A, he said.

Personnel at PKM Steel, located just south of Salina, told authorities that the pickup in question had been out of service since September, and it is believed the license plate was stolen then, Forrester said.

Information about the correct tag for Fischer's car was put out to other law enforcement agencies and the Barton County Sheriff's Office got a hit early this morning, Forrester explained. The tag was located at approximately 3:40 a.m. this morning on a 2019 Ford Edge that was parked at Applebee's in Great Bend, he said.

As it turns out, the Ford Edge, valued at just under $25,000, was traced back to the Long McArthur dealership in Salina, where it had been stolen in the last few days, Forrester said.

At this time, there are no suspects, he added.

What started as a stolen license plate report on Tuesday led investigators to a stolen car and another incident in September.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that on Tuesday, an officer was sent to the 2800 block of Linda Lane for the report of a stolen license plate. Justin Fischer, 28, reported that the license plate for his Ford Focus -- 582 FZZ -- and been stolen and replaced with another plate: 104 EDA, Forrester said. That replacement plate was traced back to a 1997 GMC Sierra owned by PKM Steel Service, Inc., 228 East Avenue A, he said.Personnel at PKM Steel, located just south of Salina, told authorities that the pickup in question had been out of service since September, and it is believed the license plate was stolen then, Forrester said.Information about the correct tag for Fischer's car was put out to other law enforcement agencies and the Barton County Sheriff's Office got a hit early this morning, Forrester explained. The tag was located at approximately 3:40 a.m. this morning on a 2019 Ford Edge that was parked at Applebee's in Great Bend, he said.As it turns out, the Ford Edge, valued at just under $25,000, was traced back to the Long McArthur dealership in Salina, where it had been stolen in the last few days, Forrester said.At this time, there are no suspects, he added.

Stolen tag probe leads to second stolen tag, stolen car

Police are investigating the recent theft of a handgun from a vehicle parked at a central Salina residence.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Dustin Burgardt 37, of Salina told police that sometime between 6 p.m. on Jan. 15 and 4 p.m. on Monday, someone stole a CZ RAMI BD 9mm Luger from his 2013 Nissan Frontier while it was parked in the 800 block of Highland. Burgardt told police that he believes he may have left the pickup unlocked, Forrester said.

Burgardt is reviewing Ring doorbell video to determine whether the suspect can be identified, Forrester said.

Police are investigating the recent theft of a handgun from a vehicle parked at a central Salina residence.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Dustin Burgardt 37, of Salina told police that sometime between 6 p.m. on Jan. 15 and 4 p.m. on Monday, someone stole a CZ RAMI BD 9mm Luger from his 2013 Nissan Frontier while it was parked in the 800 block of Highland. Burgardt told police that he believes he may have left the pickup unlocked, Forrester said.Burgardt is reviewing Ring doorbell video to determine whether the suspect can be identified, Forrester said.

Handgun stolen from pickup in central Salina

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Salina Police currently are conducting a death investigation after the body of a 67-year-old male was found in Sunset Park Tuesday afternoon.

"We are not looking for any suspects and the public is not in any danger," Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

According to Forrester, the man was not a Salina resident.

Police were called to Sunset Park, 700 Sunset Drive, at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday after a park employee found the man, Forrester said. Park employees told police that the man had been sitting in the park for a couple of hours, Forrester said.

An area at the south end of the park, near the water tower, was cordoned off, and for a brief time, police had park entrances blocked.

No other information was released as the investigation is continuing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579642338957.jpeg" alt="The scene in Sunset Park where the body was found. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The scene in Sunset Park where the body was found. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSalina Police currently are conducting a death investigation after the body of a 67-year-old male was found in Sunset Park Tuesday afternoon."We are not looking for any suspects and the public is not in any danger," Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.According to Forrester, the man was not a Salina resident.Police were called to Sunset Park, 700 Sunset Drive, at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday after a park employee found the man, Forrester said. Park employees told police that the man had been sitting in the park for a couple of hours, Forrester said.An area at the south end of the park, near the water tower, was cordoned off, and for a brief time, police had park entrances blocked.No other information was released as the investigation is continuing.

Police: Death investigation after body of 67-year-old male found in park

OCCK, Inc. is currently seeking a dedicated, compassionate, conscientious, self-motivated individual to work with adults who have disabilities. Direct Support Professional support customers in home environments and the community to establish positive routines, and for the enhancement of daily living skills. This educator/instructor will provide support and guidance in a mentor-style relationship for the achievement of individual goals. On the job training and certifications are provided.

Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/" target="_blank">www.occk.com</a>&nbsp;and learn more about our mission and great benefits

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576544829259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK, Inc. is currently seeking a dedicated, compassionate, conscientious, self-motivated individual to work with adults who have disabilities. Direct Support Professional support customers in home environments and the community to establish positive routines, and for the enhancement of daily living skills. This educator/instructor will provide support and guidance in a mentor-style relationship for the achievement of individual goals. On the job training and certifications are provided.Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/" target="_blank">www.occk.com</a>&nbsp;and learn more about our mission and great benefitsEOEDrug testing required

Local, area students named to All-State Band, Orchestra rosters

KANOPOLIS STATE PARK -- That's a lot of driftwood! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark/">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism</a> Facebook page:

KANOPOLIS STATE PARK -- That's a lot of driftwood! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark/">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKanopolisStatePark%2Fposts%2F2534862170114686&width=500" width="500" height="762" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

95 trail work hours recorded in latest cleanup effort

It is time to celebrate Kansas’ birthday and the Smoky Hill Museum will be doing it up right. 

Bring the whole family and enjoy the fun at the free Kansas Day celebration, Feb. 1 from 1-3 p.m. at the museum, 211 West Iron Avenue.

The whole family can enjoy learning how to make butter, shell corn and weave on a real loom. You can also learn about leatherworking and Native American regalia. Plus, there will be make and take crafts, delicious birthday cupcakes. 

Everything’s free<a></a>&nbsp;at the Kansas Day Open House and Birthday Bash.

The Smoky Hill Museum is a nationally accredited history museum, in the heart of downtown Salina. This free museum is open Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.&nbsp;

It is time to celebrate Kansas’ birthday and the Smoky Hill Museum will be doing it up right. Bring the whole family and enjoy the fun at the free Kansas Day celebration, Feb. 1 from 1-3 p.m. at the museum, 211 West Iron Avenue.The whole family can enjoy learning how to make butter, shell corn and weave on a real loom. You can also learn about leatherworking and Native American regalia. Plus, there will be make and take crafts, delicious birthday cupcakes. Everything’s free<a></a>&nbsp;at the Kansas Day Open House and Birthday Bash.The Smoky Hill Museum is a nationally accredited history museum, in the heart of downtown Salina. This free museum is open Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.&nbsp;

Smoky Hill Museum celebrating Kansas Day

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e28e6607d7daa72b30eb89c">Dense fog advisory in effect for 5 counties in our area</a>

Areas of fog and drizzle will continue to develop and spread eastward this afternoon as the rain and snow end, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita. 

Visibilities of one-quarter to one-half mile are likely at times. 

Drivers should be alert to sudden changes in visibility and use caution.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e28e6607d7daa72b30eb89c">Dense fog advisory in effect for 5 counties in our area</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579721921657.png" alt="fog and drizzle 1222020.png" />
 <figcaption>fog and drizzle 1222020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Areas of fog and drizzle will continue to develop and spread eastward this afternoon as the rain and snow end, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita. Visibilities of one-quarter to one-half mile are likely at times. Drivers should be alert to sudden changes in visibility and use caution.

UPDATED: NWS says fog and drizzle this afternoon

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

The pre-show dinner at this year’s Golden Globes may have featured a “plant-based feast,” but it came with a side of red meat for those who believe the people who grow and raise our food are a driving force in climate change. As with most things in Hollywood, truth was sacrificed for the story.

"The climate crisis is impossible to ignore and after speaking with our peers, and friends in the community, we felt challenged to do better," Lorenzo Soria, president of the organization behind the awards show, told CNN. She also noted the gesture "represents a small step in response to a big problem."

I don’t want to litigate the intricacies of climate change here. Rather I want to highlight how farmers and ranchers in the United States are at the leading edge of reducing so-called greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs, like carbon dioxide and methane, from their operations.

U.S. agriculture is responsible for just 9 percent of the nation’s emissions, an amount that pales in comparison to those spewed from vehicles and electric power generation.

Carbon is an important component of soil health. That’s why farmers are using innovative practices like conservation tillage, no-till, cover crops and adding amendments like biochar which increase the amount of carbon stored in soil. Growers also are keenly aware of the cost to operate tractors, combines, trucks and other farm equipment and continue to invest in fuel-efficient machinery.

Livestock producers, especially cattle ranchers, are often unfairly blamed for GHGs when cows have been responsible for less than 3 percent of emissions in the last 30 years. Cattle are the original plant-based meat, meaning they efficiently convert forbs and grasses unfit for human consumption into high-quality, protein-packed morsels.

Just like with human nutrition, the quality of forage makes a significant difference for livestock. One recent study found pigs, cattle, poultry and small ruminants in low-income countries require far more food – and produce more emissions as a result – than similar animals in developed countries. Kansas in particular has some outstanding grazing ground.

Producers also are capturing methane from manure to power their operations, placing land in conservation programs to preserve green spaces and using rotational grazing which lessen the strain on the land.

All of this is what makes American farmers and ranchers the most efficient in the world. Over the past 70 years, they’ve increased food production nearly three-fold while keeping their use of land, energy and fertilizer stable. The increased efficacy is proof American farmers and ranchers are not lumbering Luddites clinging to tradition.

Global food production will need to increase by 30 to 40 percent to nourish an estimated population of 9.3 billion people in 2050. The growing population will be richer and more urban, increasing the demand for animal-based protein.

The best way to meet the increasing demand is for American farmers and ranchers, the most efficient producers in the world, to continue working at the forefront of climate-smart production. They have a vested interest in using scientific solutions, technology and innovation to work to protect the air, land and water.

However, they can’t tackle climate change by themselves. We all must push for investments in agricultural research and innovation so our farmers and ranchers can continue implementing sustainable solutions to feed the world.

"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/2019/11/1574694508756.jpeg" alt="Greg Doering. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauThe pre-show dinner at this year’s Golden Globes may have featured a “plant-based feast,” but it came with a side of red meat for those who believe the people who grow and raise our food are a driving force in climate change. As with most things in Hollywood, truth was sacrificed for the story."The climate crisis is impossible to ignore and after speaking with our peers, and friends in the community, we felt challenged to do better," Lorenzo Soria, president of the organization behind the awards show, told CNN. She also noted the gesture "represents a small step in response to a big problem."I don’t want to litigate the intricacies of climate change here. Rather I want to highlight how farmers and ranchers in the United States are at the leading edge of reducing so-called greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs, like carbon dioxide and methane, from their operations.U.S. agriculture is responsible for just 9 percent of the nation’s emissions, an amount that pales in comparison to those spewed from vehicles and electric power generation.Carbon is an important component of soil health. That’s why farmers are using innovative practices like conservation tillage, no-till, cover crops and adding amendments like biochar which increase the amount of carbon stored in soil. Growers also are keenly aware of the cost to operate tractors, combines, trucks and other farm equipment and continue to invest in fuel-efficient machinery.Livestock producers, especially cattle ranchers, are often unfairly blamed for GHGs when cows have been responsible for less than 3 percent of emissions in the last 30 years. Cattle are the original plant-based meat, meaning they efficiently convert forbs and grasses unfit for human consumption into high-quality, protein-packed morsels.Just like with human nutrition, the quality of forage makes a significant difference for livestock. One recent study found pigs, cattle, poultry and small ruminants in low-income countries require far more food – and produce more emissions as a result – than similar animals in developed countries. Kansas in particular has some outstanding grazing ground.Producers also are capturing methane from manure to power their operations, placing land in conservation programs to preserve green spaces and using rotational grazing which lessen the strain on the land.All of this is what makes American farmers and ranchers the most efficient in the world. Over the past 70 years, they’ve increased food production nearly three-fold while keeping their use of land, energy and fertilizer stable. The increased efficacy is proof American farmers and ranchers are not lumbering Luddites clinging to tradition.Global food production will need to increase by 30 to 40 percent to nourish an estimated population of 9.3 billion people in 2050. The growing population will be richer and more urban, increasing the demand for animal-based protein.The best way to meet the increasing demand is for American farmers and ranchers, the most efficient producers in the world, to continue working at the forefront of climate-smart production. They have a vested interest in using scientific solutions, technology and innovation to work to protect the air, land and water.However, they can’t tackle climate change by themselves. We all must push for investments in agricultural research and innovation so our farmers and ranchers can continue implementing sustainable solutions to feed the world."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: Sustainable solutions

WICHITA – Kansas State University officials will present the most current information on how to grow hemp in Kansas, based on the first year of research trials at university test plots across the state.

The Industrial Hemp Conference is scheduled for Feb. 4 at the Sedgwick County Extension Education Center, located at 7001 W. 21st Street North in Wichita (near the intersection of 21st Street and Ridge Road). The conference begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.

Registration costs $50 per person if received by Tuesday, or $75 after that date. Officials encourage interested persons to register early because seating is limited.

Registration is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bit.ly/kshempconf" target="_blank">www.bit.ly/kshempconf</a>, or by calling 316-788-0492.

The conference is open to all, from the beginning grower to those considering growing industrial hemp on a larger scale. Topics include disease and insect protection, regulations, lab testing opportunities, and growing hemp in high tunnels.

Officials from the John C. Pair Horticultural Research Center and the Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center, where hemp is also being grown and tested, are part of the conference agenda.

For more information or to ask a question before or after the conference, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstateindustrialhemp" target="_blank">K-State Industrial Hemp Facebook page</a>&nbsp;(@kstateindustrialhemp).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579659558886.jpeg" alt="Researchers at the John C. Pair Horticultural Center near Wichita have been growing industrial hemp to determine best practices for Kansas producers.&nbsp; Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Researchers at the John C. Pair Horticultural Center near Wichita have been growing industrial hemp to determine best practices for Kansas producers.&nbsp; Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – Kansas State University officials will present the most current information on how to grow hemp in Kansas, based on the first year of research trials at university test plots across the state.The Industrial Hemp Conference is scheduled for Feb. 4 at the Sedgwick County Extension Education Center, located at 7001 W. 21st Street North in Wichita (near the intersection of 21st Street and Ridge Road). The conference begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.Registration costs $50 per person if received by Tuesday, or $75 after that date. Officials encourage interested persons to register early because seating is limited.Registration is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bit.ly/kshempconf" target="_blank">www.bit.ly/kshempconf</a>, or by calling 316-788-0492.The conference is open to all, from the beginning grower to those considering growing industrial hemp on a larger scale. Topics include disease and insect protection, regulations, lab testing opportunities, and growing hemp in high tunnels.Officials from the John C. Pair Horticultural Research Center and the Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center, where hemp is also being grown and tested, are part of the conference agenda.For more information or to ask a question before or after the conference, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstateindustrialhemp" target="_blank">K-State Industrial Hemp Facebook page</a>&nbsp;(@kstateindustrialhemp).

K-State to host industrial hemp conference Feb. 4

Today is Wednesday, Jan. 22, the 22nd day of 2020. There are 344 days left in the year.

On Jan. 22, 1998, Theodore Kaczynski pleaded guilty in Sacramento, California, to being the Unabomber responsible for three deaths and 29 injuries in return for a sentence of life in prison without parole.

In 1498, during his third voyage to the Western Hemisphere, Christopher Columbus arrived at the present-day Caribbean island of St. Vincent.

In 1901, Britain's Queen Victoria died at age 81 after a reign of 63 years; she was succeeded by her eldest son, Edward VII.

In 1944, during World War II, Allied forces began landing at Anzio, Italy.

In 1953, the Arthur Miller drama "The Crucible," set during the Salem witch trials, opened on Broadway.

In 1970, the first regularly scheduled commercial flight of the Boeing 747 began in New York and ended in London some 6 1/2 hours later.

In 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court, in its Roe v. Wade decision, legalized abortions using a trimester approach. Former President Lyndon B. Johnson died at his Texas ranch at age 64.

In 1987, Pennsylvania treasurer R. Budd Dwyer, convicted of defrauding the state, proclaimed his innocence at a news conference before pulling out a gun, placing the barrel in his mouth and shooting himself to death in front of horrified onlookers.

In 1994, actor Telly Savalas died in Universal City, California, a day after turning 72.

In 1995, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy died at the Kennedy compound at Hyannis Port, Mass., at age 104.

In 1997, the Senate confirmed Madeleine Albright as the nation's first female secretary of state.

In 2007, a double car bombing of a predominantly Shiite commercial area in Baghdad killed 88 people. Iran announced it had barred 38 nuclear inspectors on a United Nations list from entering the country in apparent retaliation for U.N. sanctions imposed the previous month.

In 2009, President Barack Obama signed an executive order to close the Guantanamo Bay prison camp within a year. (The facility remained in operation as lawmakers blocked efforts to transfer terror suspects to the United States; President Donald Trump later issued an order to keep the jail open and allow the Pentagon to bring new prisoners there.)

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama tried to revive his battered agenda and rally Democrats with a renewed emphasis on jobs during a town hall meeting in Elyria, Ohio. The "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon raised more than $66 million. Conan O'Brien ended his brief tenure of only seven months on "The Tonight Show" after accepting a $45 million buyout from NBC to leave the show he'd long dreamed of hosting. Actress Jean Simmons, 80, died in Santa Monica, California. Actor James Mitchell, 89, died in Los Angeles.

Five years ago: With thousands of abortion protesters swarming Washington in their annual March for Life, the House voted 242-179 to permanently forbid federal funds for most abortion coverage, even though the legislation had no realistic chance of passage. Yemen's U.S.-backed president, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, quit under pressure from rebels holding him captive in his home. Former U.S. Senator and Kentucky Governor Wendell Ford, 90, died in Owensboro.

One year ago: The Supreme Court said the Trump administration could go ahead with its plan to restrict military service by transgender men and women as court challenges continued. Los Angeles teachers overwhelmingly approved a new contract, ending a six-day strike over funding and staffing in the nation's second-largest school district. "Roma" and "The Favourite" each picked up 10 nominations for the 91st Academy Awards; Netflix and Marvel each scored their first best-picture nomination, for "Roma" (Netflix) and "Black Panther" (Marvel.) Former New York Yankees reliever Mariano Rivera became baseball's first unanimous Hall of Fame selection, as he was elected along with Edgar Martinez, Mike Mussina, and the late Roy Halladay.

Today's Birthdays: Actress Piper Laurie is 88. Celebrity chef Graham Kerr (TV: "The Galloping Gourmet") is 86. Author Joseph Wambaugh is 83. Singer Steve Perry is 71. Country singer-musician Teddy Gentry (Alabama) is 68. Movie director Jim Jarmusch is 67. Actor John Wesley Shipp is 65. Hockey Hall of Famer Mike Bossy is 63. Actress Linda Blair is 61. Actress Diane Lane is 55. Actor and rap DJ Jazzy Jeff is 55. Country singer Regina Nicks (Regina Regina) is 55. Celebrity chef Guy Fieri is 52. Actress Olivia d'Abo is 51. Actress Katie Finneran is 49. Actor Gabriel Macht is 48. Actor Balthazar Getty is 45. Actor Christopher Kennedy Masterson is 40. Jazz singer Lizz Wright is 40. Pop singer Willa Ford is 39. Actress Beverley Mitchell is 39. Rock singer-musician Ben Moody is 39. Actor Kevin Sheridan is 38. Actress-singer Phoebe Strole is 37. Rapper Logic is 30. Tennis player Alize Cornet is 30. Actress Sami Gayle is 24.

Thought for Today: "I know there's a proverb which that says 'To err is human,' but a human error is nothing to what a computer can do if it tries." — Dame Agatha Christie, English mystery writer (1890-1976).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://shutterstock.com/">shutterstock.com</a>." />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://shutterstock.com/">shutterstock.com</a>.</figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Wednesday, Jan. 22, the 22nd day of 2020. There are 344 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Jan. 22, 1998, Theodore Kaczynski pleaded guilty in Sacramento, California, to being the Unabomber responsible for three deaths and 29 injuries in return for a sentence of life in prison without parole.On this date:In 1498, during his third voyage to the Western Hemisphere, Christopher Columbus arrived at the present-day Caribbean island of St. Vincent.In 1901, Britain's Queen Victoria died at age 81 after a reign of 63 years; she was succeeded by her eldest son, Edward VII.In 1944, during World War II, Allied forces began landing at Anzio, Italy.In 1953, the Arthur Miller drama "The Crucible," set during the Salem witch trials, opened on Broadway.In 1970, the first regularly scheduled commercial flight of the Boeing 747 began in New York and ended in London some 6 1/2 hours later.In 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court, in its Roe v. Wade decision, legalized abortions using a trimester approach. Former President Lyndon B. Johnson died at his Texas ranch at age 64.In 1987, Pennsylvania treasurer R. Budd Dwyer, convicted of defrauding the state, proclaimed his innocence at a news conference before pulling out a gun, placing the barrel in his mouth and shooting himself to death in front of horrified onlookers.In 1994, actor Telly Savalas died in Universal City, California, a day after turning 72.In 1995, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy died at the Kennedy compound at Hyannis Port, Mass., at age 104.In 1997, the Senate confirmed Madeleine Albright as the nation's first female secretary of state.In 2007, a double car bombing of a predominantly Shiite commercial area in Baghdad killed 88 people. Iran announced it had barred 38 nuclear inspectors on a United Nations list from entering the country in apparent retaliation for U.N. sanctions imposed the previous month.In 2009, President Barack Obama signed an executive order to close the Guantanamo Bay prison camp within a year. (The facility remained in operation as lawmakers blocked efforts to transfer terror suspects to the United States; President Donald Trump later issued an order to keep the jail open and allow the Pentagon to bring new prisoners there.)Ten years ago: President Barack Obama tried to revive his battered agenda and rally Democrats with a renewed emphasis on jobs during a town hall meeting in Elyria, Ohio. The "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon raised more than $66 million. Conan O'Brien ended his brief tenure of only seven months on "The Tonight Show" after accepting a $45 million buyout from NBC to leave the show he'd long dreamed of hosting. Actress Jean Simmons, 80, died in Santa Monica, California. Actor James Mitchell, 89, died in Los Angeles.Five years ago: With thousands of abortion protesters swarming Washington in their annual March for Life, the House voted 242-179 to permanently forbid federal funds for most abortion coverage, even though the legislation had no realistic chance of passage. Yemen's U.S.-backed president, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, quit under pressure from rebels holding him captive in his home. Former U.S. Senator and Kentucky Governor Wendell Ford, 90, died in Owensboro.One year ago: The Supreme Court said the Trump administration could go ahead with its plan to restrict military service by transgender men and women as court challenges continued. Los Angeles teachers overwhelmingly approved a new contract, ending a six-day strike over funding and staffing in the nation's second-largest school district. "Roma" and "The Favourite" each picked up 10 nominations for the 91st Academy Awards; Netflix and Marvel each scored their first best-picture nomination, for "Roma" (Netflix) and "Black Panther" (Marvel.) Former New York Yankees reliever Mariano Rivera became baseball's first unanimous Hall of Fame selection, as he was elected along with Edgar Martinez, Mike Mussina, and the late Roy Halladay.Today's Birthdays: Actress Piper Laurie is 88. Celebrity chef Graham Kerr (TV: "The Galloping Gourmet") is 86. Author Joseph Wambaugh is 83. Singer Steve Perry is 71. Country singer-musician Teddy Gentry (Alabama) is 68. Movie director Jim Jarmusch is 67. Actor John Wesley Shipp is 65. Hockey Hall of Famer Mike Bossy is 63. Actress Linda Blair is 61. Actress Diane Lane is 55. Actor and rap DJ Jazzy Jeff is 55. Country singer Regina Nicks (Regina Regina) is 55. Celebrity chef Guy Fieri is 52. Actress Olivia d'Abo is 51. Actress Katie Finneran is 49. Actor Gabriel Macht is 48. Actor Balthazar Getty is 45. Actor Christopher Kennedy Masterson is 40. Jazz singer Lizz Wright is 40. Pop singer Willa Ford is 39. Actress Beverley Mitchell is 39. Rock singer-musician Ben Moody is 39. Actor Kevin Sheridan is 38. Actress-singer Phoebe Strole is 37. Rapper Logic is 30. Tennis player Alize Cornet is 30. Actress Sami Gayle is 24.Thought for Today: "I know there's a proverb which that says 'To err is human,' but a human error is nothing to what a computer can do if it tries." — Dame Agatha Christie, English mystery writer (1890-1976).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Jan. 22

The winter weather has prompted delays, closings, and postponements. The following list is for our area, and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Businesses, organizations, churches

OCCK 81 Connection, no morning route.&nbsp;Afternoon routes will run as scheduled unless conditions worsen.

Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, two-hour delay

Rolling Hills Zoo, opening at 10 a.m.

Cloud County Community College, two-hour delay

Elyria Christian School-McPherson, two-hour delay

North Central Kansas Technical College-Beloit, two-hour delay

Salina Area Technical College, opening at 10 a.m.

Sonshine Preschool-McPherson, closed

St. Andrews Elementary-Abilene, two-hour delay

USD 239 North Ottawa County, closed. No evening activities

USD 299 Sylvan Grove, two-hour delay

USD 306 Southeast of Saline, two-hour delay

USD 307 Ell-Saline, closed. All scheduled activities canceled

USD 410 Hillsboro, two-hour delay. No morning preschool

USD 419 Canton-Galva, two-hour delay. No morning or afternoon preschool

USD 448 Inman, two-hour delay. No morning preschool

The winter weather has prompted delays, closings, and postponements. The following list is for our area, and will be updated as more information becomes available.<h2>WEDNESDAY</h2>Businesses, organizations, churchesOCCK 81 Connection, no morning route.&nbsp;Afternoon routes will run as scheduled unless conditions worsen.Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, two-hour delayRolling Hills Zoo, opening at 10 a.m.SchoolsCloud County Community College, two-hour delayElyria Christian School-McPherson, two-hour delayNorth Central Kansas Technical College-Beloit, two-hour delaySalina Area Technical College, opening at 10 a.m.Sonshine Preschool-McPherson, closedSt. Andrews Elementary-Abilene, two-hour delaySt. John's of Beloit, closedUSD 107 Rock Hills, closedUSD 239 North Ottawa County, closed. No evening activitiesUSD 272 Waconda, two-hour delayUSD 273 Beloit, closedUSD 298 Lincoln, two-hour delayUSD 299 Sylvan Grove, two-hour delayUSD 306 Southeast of Saline, two-hour delayUSD 307 Ell-Saline, closed. All scheduled activities canceledUSD 327 Ellsworth, two-hour delayUSD 333 Concordia, closedUSD 334 Glasco/Miltonvale, closedUSD 393 Solomon, two-hour delayUSD 397 Centre, closedUSD 408 Marion, two-hour delayUSD 410 Hillsboro, two-hour delay. No morning preschoolUSD 411 Goessel, two-hour delayUSD 418 McPherson, two-hour delayUSD 419 Canton-Galva, two-hour delay. No morning or afternoon preschoolUSD 435 Abilene, two-hour delayUSD 448 Inman, two-hour delay. No morning preschoolUSD 473 Chapman, two-hour delay

Weather delays, cancellations in the area for Wednesday

The Saline County Citizens Group
for Jail Reform has been closely following Saline County’s search for a a
solution to the problems surrounding our county jail.&nbsp; We have toured the jail and encouraged others
to do the same, attended County Commission meetings, met with Sheriff’s office
staff, visited with architect TreanorHL, and discussed among ourselves the
differences we have about a new jail and the inclusion of important programming
needs we consider to be important end products of this lengthy process.

At this point, our biggest
concern is making sure that the voters in Saline County&nbsp; come to the polls prepared to make an
educated and informed decision for our community’s future.&nbsp; We emphasize this because we count ourselves
among those who are going through that learning process ourselves.&nbsp; Few of us have closely followed our tax
dollars into the jail problems and looked at the larger cost/benefit problems
in our criminal justice system.&nbsp;&nbsp; Victims
and offenders alike have been compartmentalized and separated off from our
community sensibility in many ways.&nbsp; This
can leave us with the illusion that if broken parts of the community are ‘out
of sight’ then they can be kept ‘out of mind,’ and even forgotten.

This attitude makes no sense when
we know that 98% of offenders in our jails and prisons will be returning to our
communities at some point.&nbsp; Unaddressed
family and social problems of the community—contributing causes of criminal
behavior in the first place—can eventually ‘come home to roost’ in even more
problematic ways if the expensive offender time behind bars is without
sufficient quality rehabilitation programming.

As communities go, Salina is
fortunate to have a remarkable range of programs and resources to help address
pre-crime problems. These have undoubtedly helped steer an unknown number of
life paths away from the criminal justice route.&nbsp; Once in the system, however, offenders find
it difficult to get out of its grasp and to successfully move on with their
life.&nbsp; 

Community Corrections, among
other agencies, is helping with that.&nbsp; It
provides supervision programs for high risk/high need adults and juveniles
trying to avoid getting ‘lost and forgotten’ in the jail and prison environments.&nbsp; Especially notable is the Adult Drug Court
with its 89% success rate and the relatively recent adult Pre-Trial program
that, thus far, has shown an 88% success rate.&nbsp;


These Programs help reduce the
incarceration rates and significantly reduce the costs we pay for extended jail
time.&nbsp; 

Related programs, however, need
expanding inside the jail, and with extended offender contact and
meaningful program enhancement.&nbsp;
Longer-term effectiveness requires these to include mental health,
addiction-related, spiritual, educational, and social programs.

Addressing the need for extended
rehabilitation programming before and during incarceration is at the heart of
the concern for those of us involved with the Saline County Citizens for Jail
Reform group.&nbsp; When the vote on this
arrives, voters need to show up with hearts and minds engaged and
informed.&nbsp; Until then, we all need to
learn more.&nbsp; Begin by showing up at the
Jan 30th Town Hall at St. John’s/St. Francis Stevens Center at 7 p.m.&nbsp; Save Feb. 27th and March 19th on your
calendars for future jail Town Halls.

Member, Saline County Citizens
Group for Jail Reform

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Saline County Citizens Group
for Jail Reform has been closely following Saline County’s search for a a
solution to the problems surrounding our county jail.&nbsp; We have toured the jail and encouraged others
to do the same, attended County Commission meetings, met with Sheriff’s office
staff, visited with architect TreanorHL, and discussed among ourselves the
differences we have about a new jail and the inclusion of important programming
needs we consider to be important end products of this lengthy process.At this point, our biggest
concern is making sure that the voters in Saline County&nbsp; come to the polls prepared to make an
educated and informed decision for our community’s future.&nbsp; We emphasize this because we count ourselves
among those who are going through that learning process ourselves.&nbsp; Few of us have closely followed our tax
dollars into the jail problems and looked at the larger cost/benefit problems
in our criminal justice system.&nbsp;&nbsp; Victims
and offenders alike have been compartmentalized and separated off from our
community sensibility in many ways.&nbsp; This
can leave us with the illusion that if broken parts of the community are ‘out
of sight’ then they can be kept ‘out of mind,’ and even forgotten.This attitude makes no sense when
we know that 98% of offenders in our jails and prisons will be returning to our
communities at some point.&nbsp; Unaddressed
family and social problems of the community—contributing causes of criminal
behavior in the first place—can eventually ‘come home to roost’ in even more
problematic ways if the expensive offender time behind bars is without
sufficient quality rehabilitation programming.As communities go, Salina is
fortunate to have a remarkable range of programs and resources to help address
pre-crime problems. These have undoubtedly helped steer an unknown number of
life paths away from the criminal justice route.&nbsp; Once in the system, however, offenders find
it difficult to get out of its grasp and to successfully move on with their
life.&nbsp; Community Corrections, among
other agencies, is helping with that.&nbsp; It
provides supervision programs for high risk/high need adults and juveniles
trying to avoid getting ‘lost and forgotten’ in the jail and prison environments.&nbsp; Especially notable is the Adult Drug Court
with its 89% success rate and the relatively recent adult Pre-Trial program
that, thus far, has shown an 88% success rate.&nbsp;
These Programs help reduce the
incarceration rates and significantly reduce the costs we pay for extended jail
time.&nbsp; Related programs, however, need
expanding inside the jail, and with extended offender contact and
meaningful program enhancement.&nbsp;
Longer-term effectiveness requires these to include mental health,
addiction-related, spiritual, educational, and social programs.Addressing the need for extended
rehabilitation programming before and during incarceration is at the heart of
the concern for those of us involved with the Saline County Citizens for Jail
Reform group.&nbsp; When the vote on this
arrives, voters need to show up with hearts and minds engaged and
informed.&nbsp; Until then, we all need to
learn more.&nbsp; Begin by showing up at the
Jan 30th Town Hall at St. John’s/St. Francis Stevens Center at 7 p.m.&nbsp; Save Feb. 27th and March 19th on your
calendars for future jail Town Halls.Gerald Gillespie, Member, Saline County Citizens
Group for Jail Reform

Be engaged, informed when voting on jail issue

Well, they got through Week 1 of the 2020 legislative session without any injuries (except a House member who slipped on the ice returning from a reception) and no real scraps under the dome…but they’re coming…

Biggest of those scraps starts Tuesday with hearings on a resolution that would amend the Kansas Constitution to allow the Kansas Legislature to regulate abortion in Kansas. The Kansas Supreme Court in April held that Kansans’ decisions to have an abortion are strictly a personal right, not subject to legislative regulations or prohibition…unless Kansans vote to put that regulatory authority in the hands of 63 House and 21 Senate members, plus the governor, of course.

Legislators who oppose abortion want voters to hand them that regulatory authority at a likely August statewide vote on a constitutional amendment that would do just that. Let the Legislature decide what restrictions to put on abortion, or possibly just outlaw it save for pregnancies which are the result of (provable, and when and where?) rape or incest, or which threaten the health of the mother.

Yes, those legislators who believe in hands-off governments, unless the issue is budgets, or fence law, or naming of bridges, want to offer anti-abortion voters the chance to hand them the authority to pare&nbsp;away that Supreme Court defined individual constitutional&nbsp;right.&nbsp; It’s one of those times—especially for conservative legislators—when they tend to look away from their “small government,” “reduce regulation,” “personal freedom” mantras.

And that’s the big legislative fight this year that is likely to cast a shadow over nearly everything else that happens under the Dome.

Hearings open later this week on the Gov. Laura Kelly-sought expansion of Medicaid (or KanCare, in the argot of Kansas) to provide 90 percent federal/10 percent Kansas-financed health care for the state’s poor, which sounds like a pretty good idea, save for the specter of offering that health care to Kansans who are fit but&nbsp; just don’t have jobs and aren’t in a state-supervised program that will help them find jobs so they can pay for their own health care.

The issue there is, of course, those jobless “able-bodied” folks who would get the coverage, while if they just got good enough jobs, they could buy their own health insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141234707.png" alt="Martin Hawver" />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARTIN HAWVERWell, they got through Week 1 of the 2020 legislative session without any injuries (except a House member who slipped on the ice returning from a reception) and no real scraps under the dome…but they’re coming…Biggest of those scraps starts Tuesday with hearings on a resolution that would amend the Kansas Constitution to allow the Kansas Legislature to regulate abortion in Kansas. The Kansas Supreme Court in April held that Kansans’ decisions to have an abortion are strictly a personal right, not subject to legislative regulations or prohibition…unless Kansans vote to put that regulatory authority in the hands of 63 House and 21 Senate members, plus the governor, of course.Legislators who oppose abortion want voters to hand them that regulatory authority at a likely August statewide vote on a constitutional amendment that would do just that. Let the Legislature decide what restrictions to put on abortion, or possibly just outlaw it save for pregnancies which are the result of (provable, and when and where?) rape or incest, or which threaten the health of the mother.Yes, those legislators who believe in hands-off governments, unless the issue is budgets, or fence law, or naming of bridges, want to offer anti-abortion voters the chance to hand them the authority to pare&nbsp;away that Supreme Court defined individual constitutional&nbsp;right.&nbsp; It’s one of those times—especially for conservative legislators—when they tend to look away from their “small government,” “reduce regulation,” “personal freedom” mantras.And that’s the big legislative fight this year that is likely to cast a shadow over nearly everything else that happens under the Dome.But, that’s just the kickoff.Hearings open later this week on the Gov. Laura Kelly-sought expansion of Medicaid (or KanCare, in the argot of Kansas) to provide 90 percent federal/10 percent Kansas-financed health care for the state’s poor, which sounds like a pretty good idea, save for the specter of offering that health care to Kansans who are fit but&nbsp; just don’t have jobs and aren’t in a state-supervised program that will help them find jobs so they can pay for their own health care.The issue there is, of course, those jobless “able-bodied” folks who would get the coverage, while if they just got good enough jobs, they could buy their own health insurance.Behind that issue is the (begrudging?) cooperation between Kelly and Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, R-Overland Park, to agree on the Medicaid&nbsp;bill, which most Republican&nbsp;legislative leaders don’t care for.Budget talks haven’t started yet, and that’s the under-the-cover battle of what gets spent where; Kelly wants to spend on expanded social services and ease off seizing money from the Kansas Department of Transportation so it can get back to building roads. Oh, and she wants to combine the Kansas Department for Children and Families and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disabilities Services into one Kansas Department of Human&nbsp;Services.&nbsp;The agencies do much of the same work, and it sounds like one of those executive orders that lawmakers might just let happen, but conservative legislators are seeing about $25 million in Juvenile Justice funds proposed to be moved under the consolidation cover and are unsure about that.What’s left? Nearly everything that might be persuasive on a campaign brochure ranging from income and property taxes to lawmakers’ attempts to dissect Kelly’s proposed refundable income tax credit for the sales tax some poor folks might have spent on groceries.Practically? We’re watching the ingredients of the 2020 legislative cake…just wondering how they’re going to be stirred and baked.Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>