OCCK seeks a bookkeeper/payroll specialist in Salina. This is a full-time position.

Perform duties under the direct supervision of the Vice President/Chief Financial Officer and responsible for payroll and financial procedures.

Must have at least 2 years bookkeeper experience. Must have strong oral and written communication skills.

Must have an understanding of basic bookkeeping principles.

Must have strong working knowledge of and experience with Microsoft Office products including Word, Access and Excel.

Must have the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.

Must have the ability to work with a diverse group of people in a team setting.

Must meet the eligibility requirements of the auto insurance company providing coverage for OCCK vehicles or have access to transportation.

BS degree preferred but not required.&nbsp;

Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://jobs.occk.com/careers/Careers">http://jobs.occk.com/careers/Careers</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576544829259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK seeks a bookkeeper/payroll specialist in Salina. This is a full-time position.<h2>Job responsibilities</h2>Perform duties under the direct supervision of the Vice President/Chief Financial Officer and responsible for payroll and financial procedures.<h2>Job qualifications</h2>Must have at least 2 years bookkeeper experience. Must have strong oral and written communication skills.Must have a proven work history.Must have an understanding of basic bookkeeping principles.Must have strong working knowledge of and experience with Microsoft Office products including Word, Access and Excel.Must have the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.Must have proven organizational skills.Must have the ability to work with a diverse group of people in a team setting.Must meet the eligibility requirements of the auto insurance company providing coverage for OCCK vehicles or have access to transportation.BS degree preferred but not required.&nbsp;Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://jobs.occk.com/careers/Careers">http://jobs.occk.com/careers/Careers</a>.

OCCK seeks bookkeeper/payroll specialist in Salina -- full-time position

A few days after Christmas my husband came home with a sack from the local grocery store. In the bag was a combination of noise makers, paper eyeglasses and crowns. All items had 2020 somewhere on them. He immediately put the bag on one of our kitchen shelves that we generally use to hide things from the kids. I forgot about the items until my husband brought them out of their hiding spot on the evening of the last day of the year.

The kids immediately gravitated toward the noise makers and put their full gusto into kicking off a celebration. After a dozen seconds of the incessant squawking, which sounded more like sickly geese honking, we encouraged the kids to put the noisemakers down and choose some other items to quietly wear to celebrate the coming of the new year.

My daughter, who very much enjoys accessories, donned herself with both the 2020 eyeglasses and tiara, and she immediately began dancing around the kitchen and then took off through the house. She quickly ditched the eyeglasses, but absolutely embraced wearing the tiara.&nbsp;

As the evening progressed, we enjoyed playing a card game that we had spent a lot of time playing together since acquiring it Christmas morning. As we sat around the kitchen table drawing cards and trying to slow down our opponents, the distant noise of the television in the other room offered New Year programming. It was a calm and simple and lovely evening together with my family that all too often is missed because of busy schedules and distractions. We had nowhere we had to be, and nothing needed immediate attention on Jan. 1. The evening allowed us all to simply be. We were present, and close, and enjoying each other’s company.&nbsp;

As the East Coast prepared to ring in the new year, so did my family. The kids didn’t need to stay up until midnight Central Time, and I was not willing to explain time zones to them that night. We wished each other a Happy New Year and settled down for the evening.&nbsp;

The following morning, a chipper and well-rested crew appeared from their rooms. My 4-year-old daughter, Isannah, emerged wearing her new year’s tiara centered on her head. It’s a paper item that surprisingly did not break after its first wear the night before. Isannah emerged as royalty, ready to seize the day with her headpiece. And she and her brother did just that – seized the day – and enjoyed the final hours of their break before returning to school the next day.

For the next two mornings, although the calm and relaxed mornings have subsided, Isannah has continued to wake from her slumber and immediately place her paper tiara on her head before joining us at the table for breakfast.

She walks into the room with her crown centered on her head ready to seize the day, and despite her brother’s attempts to distract and unnerve her by helping it fall off, she calmly places it back on her head of curls and continues on with her morning. She doesn’t allow her brother’s attempts to impact her morning. She is present, and sits close with the family, and continues to enjoy her time with everyone over breakfast before she carefully places her headpiece back on her desk before leaving for school to seize the day.

May we all approach this new year like my 4-year-old has with her delicate paper tiara these last few days. May you enter each day this year intentionally with a crown centrally placed on your head. And may we all brush off those distractions and other instances that would impact how one wears the crown. And may we all re-center our headpieces quickly in order to seize each day!

"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/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWINMcPherson County farmer and rancherA few days after Christmas my husband came home with a sack from the local grocery store. In the bag was a combination of noise makers, paper eyeglasses and crowns. All items had 2020 somewhere on them. He immediately put the bag on one of our kitchen shelves that we generally use to hide things from the kids. I forgot about the items until my husband brought them out of their hiding spot on the evening of the last day of the year.The kids immediately gravitated toward the noise makers and put their full gusto into kicking off a celebration. After a dozen seconds of the incessant squawking, which sounded more like sickly geese honking, we encouraged the kids to put the noisemakers down and choose some other items to quietly wear to celebrate the coming of the new year.My daughter, who very much enjoys accessories, donned herself with both the 2020 eyeglasses and tiara, and she immediately began dancing around the kitchen and then took off through the house. She quickly ditched the eyeglasses, but absolutely embraced wearing the tiara.&nbsp;As the evening progressed, we enjoyed playing a card game that we had spent a lot of time playing together since acquiring it Christmas morning. As we sat around the kitchen table drawing cards and trying to slow down our opponents, the distant noise of the television in the other room offered New Year programming. It was a calm and simple and lovely evening together with my family that all too often is missed because of busy schedules and distractions. We had nowhere we had to be, and nothing needed immediate attention on Jan. 1. The evening allowed us all to simply be. We were present, and close, and enjoying each other’s company.&nbsp;As the East Coast prepared to ring in the new year, so did my family. The kids didn’t need to stay up until midnight Central Time, and I was not willing to explain time zones to them that night. We wished each other a Happy New Year and settled down for the evening.&nbsp;The following morning, a chipper and well-rested crew appeared from their rooms. My 4-year-old daughter, Isannah, emerged wearing her new year’s tiara centered on her head. It’s a paper item that surprisingly did not break after its first wear the night before. Isannah emerged as royalty, ready to seize the day with her headpiece. And she and her brother did just that – seized the day – and enjoyed the final hours of their break before returning to school the next day.For the next two mornings, although the calm and relaxed mornings have subsided, Isannah has continued to wake from her slumber and immediately place her paper tiara on her head before joining us at the table for breakfast.She walks into the room with her crown centered on her head ready to seize the day, and despite her brother’s attempts to distract and unnerve her by helping it fall off, she calmly places it back on her head of curls and continues on with her morning. She doesn’t allow her brother’s attempts to impact her morning. She is present, and sits close with the family, and continues to enjoy her time with everyone over breakfast before she carefully places her headpiece back on her desk before leaving for school to seize the day.May we all approach this new year like my 4-year-old has with her delicate paper tiara these last few days. May you enter each day this year intentionally with a crown centrally placed on your head. And may we all brush off those distractions and other instances that would impact how one wears the crown. And may we all re-center our headpieces quickly in order to seize each day!"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: Seize the day

ABILENE -- Jeff Sanborn,&nbsp;Memorial Health System (MHS) Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Director,&nbsp;will be the guest speaker at the next Healthwise 55 luncheon. 

He will speak on the topic of “Aquatics Therapy.”

The event will be on Jan. 16, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Nichols Education Center (lower level of the child care center, 1003 N. Brady, in Abilene. Please enter through the east door. The cost is $5 to cover the price of the meal. Please call Michelle McClanahan, MHS Director of Volunteer Services, at (785) 263-6692 by noon Friday to make a reservation.

Healthwise 55 is a luncheon and health information program hosted by the MHS Volunteer Corps. It is open to the public for individuals ages 55 and older. It includes a meal followed by a health care professional speaking on a health-related topic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578450908575.jpeg" alt="The next Healthwise 55 luncheon will explore aquatics therapy. Photo courtesy MHS" />
 <figcaption>The next Healthwise 55 luncheon will explore aquatics therapy. Photo courtesy MHS</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE -- Jeff Sanborn,&nbsp;Memorial Health System (MHS) Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Director,&nbsp;will be the guest speaker at the next Healthwise 55 luncheon. He will speak on the topic of “Aquatics Therapy.”The event will be on Jan. 16, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Nichols Education Center (lower level of the child care center, 1003 N. Brady, in Abilene. Please enter through the east door. The cost is $5 to cover the price of the meal. Please call Michelle McClanahan, MHS Director of Volunteer Services, at (785) 263-6692 by noon Friday to make a reservation.Healthwise 55 is a luncheon and health information program hosted by the MHS Volunteer Corps. It is open to the public for individuals ages 55 and older. It includes a meal followed by a health care professional speaking on a health-related topic.

Reservations now being taken for Healthwise 55 luncheon

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a red flag warning and wind advisory for counties in our area for today.

A red flag warning is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday for Marion and McPherson counties because of extreme grassland fire danger, according to NWS in Wichita.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Winds from the south at 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph are expected in the warned area, with relative humidity as low as 25 percent. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control, NWS noted. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Additionally, NWS in Wichita has issued a wind advisory in effect from 2 p.m. Wednesday to 4 a.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

South winds around 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph expected in the advisory area, according to NWS.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result, NWS noted. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578488872659.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a red flag warning and wind advisory for counties in our area for today.A red flag warning is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday for Marion and McPherson counties because of extreme grassland fire danger, according to NWS in Wichita.A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.Winds from the south at 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph are expected in the warned area, with relative humidity as low as 25 percent. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control, NWS noted. Outdoor burning is not recommended.Additionally, NWS in Wichita has issued a wind advisory in effect from 2 p.m. Wednesday to 4 a.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountySouth winds around 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph expected in the advisory area, according to NWS.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result, NWS noted. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Red flag warning, wind advisory for counties in our area

TOPEKA — Thirty-two first-year educators from Kansas are being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award program.

The 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were announced Jan. 7 by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).

The first-year educators will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference on Feb. 14 in Topeka.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state an opportunity to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.

The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state’s U.S. congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.

Recipients of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

“We are fortunate to have such quality teachers in classrooms across Kansas,” Watson said. “I want to congratulate these first-year educators. It is because of them that we move closer to our vision of leading the world in the success of each student.”

2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients include the following.

Elly Dice, North Lyon County Elementary School, North Lyon County USD 251.

Christina Frost, Council Grove Elementary School, Morris County USD 417.

Mariannet Herrera, Western Plains High School, Western Plains USD 106.

Lillian Lingenfelter, Peabody-Burns Middle School, Peabody-Burns USD 398.

Carrie Pilkington, St. George Elementary School, Rock Creek USD 323.

Lisa Pluff, Manhattan High School, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383.

Caroline Riggenbach, Plum Creek Elementary School, Buhler USD 313.

Kyle Van Vogelpoel, Rock Creek Junior-Senior High School, Rock Creek USD 323.

Chad Aberle, West Middle School, Lawrence USD 497.

Kaylee Barber, Washburn Rural High School, Auburn-Washburn USD 437.

Tristan Bartley, McLouth Middle/High School, McLouth USD 342.

Heather Corley, Anderson County Junior-Senior High School, Garnett USD 365.

Sidney Doty, Berryton Elementary School, Shawnee Heights USD 450.

Allison Flinn, Oskaloosa Elementary School, Oskaloosa USD 341.

Tawni Schraad, Randolph Elementary School, Topeka USD 501.

Scotti Twombly, Hiawatha Elementary School, Hiawatha USD 415.

Emily Baden, Nike Elementary School, Gardner Edgerton USD 231.

Samantha Collins, Chisholm Trail Middle School, Olathe USD 233.

Katie Cox, Turner Middle School, Turner USD 202.

Blake Fingalsen, Rhein Benninghoven Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512.

Bennett Johnson, Heritage Elementary School, Olathe USD 233.

Paige Lankford, Blue Valley West High School, Blue Valley USD 229.

Matthew Lundy, Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill USD 230.

Emily Moore, Overland Trail Elementary School, Blue Valley USD 229.

Victoria Bay, Andover Central Middle School, Andover USD 385.

Keegan Hallmark, Andover Middle School, Andover USD 385.

Kacie Johnson, El Dorado Middle School, El Dorado USD 490.

Chasmyn Lindeman-Thimesch, Cloud Elementary School, Wichita USD 259.

Crystal Logan, Mulvane High School, Mulvane USD 263.

Kelley Lowe, W.D. Munson Primary School, Mulvane USD 263.

Mollie Mills-Weis, Newton High School, Newton USD 373.

Kali Stearns, Circle Towanda Elementary School, Circle USD 375.

As recipients of the Kansas Horizon Award, these educators are invited to join KEEN, a network of educators from around the state who have been formally recognized for exemplary performance. Members of KEEN have an opportunity to network with other outstanding educators and participate in several professional development programs throughout the year.               

TOPEKA — Thirty-two first-year educators from Kansas are being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award program.The 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were announced Jan. 7 by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).The first-year educators will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference on Feb. 14 in Topeka.The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state an opportunity to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state’s U.S. congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.Recipients of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.“We are fortunate to have such quality teachers in classrooms across Kansas,” Watson said. “I want to congratulate these first-year educators. It is because of them that we move closer to our vision of leading the world in the success of each student.”2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients include the following.Region 1Elly Dice, North Lyon County Elementary School, North Lyon County USD 251.Christina Frost, Council Grove Elementary School, Morris County USD 417.Mariannet Herrera, Western Plains High School, Western Plains USD 106.Lillian Lingenfelter, Peabody-Burns Middle School, Peabody-Burns USD 398.Carrie Pilkington, St. George Elementary School, Rock Creek USD 323.Lisa Pluff, Manhattan High School, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383.Caroline Riggenbach, Plum Creek Elementary School, Buhler USD 313.Kyle Van Vogelpoel, Rock Creek Junior-Senior High School, Rock Creek USD 323.Region 2Chad Aberle, West Middle School, Lawrence USD 497.Kaylee Barber, Washburn Rural High School, Auburn-Washburn USD 437.Tristan Bartley, McLouth Middle/High School, McLouth USD 342.Heather Corley, Anderson County Junior-Senior High School, Garnett USD 365.Sidney Doty, Berryton Elementary School, Shawnee Heights USD 450.Allison Flinn, Oskaloosa Elementary School, Oskaloosa USD 341.Tawni Schraad, Randolph Elementary School, Topeka USD 501.Scotti Twombly, Hiawatha Elementary School, Hiawatha USD 415.Region 3Emily Baden, Nike Elementary School, Gardner Edgerton USD 231.Samantha Collins, Chisholm Trail Middle School, Olathe USD 233.Katie Cox, Turner Middle School, Turner USD 202.Blake Fingalsen, Rhein Benninghoven Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512.Bennett Johnson, Heritage Elementary School, Olathe USD 233.Paige Lankford, Blue Valley West High School, Blue Valley USD 229.Matthew Lundy, Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill USD 230.Emily Moore, Overland Trail Elementary School, Blue Valley USD 229.Region 4Victoria Bay, Andover Central Middle School, Andover USD 385.Keegan Hallmark, Andover Middle School, Andover USD 385.Kacie Johnson, El Dorado Middle School, El Dorado USD 490.Chasmyn Lindeman-Thimesch, Cloud Elementary School, Wichita USD 259.Crystal Logan, Mulvane High School, Mulvane USD 263.Kelley Lowe, W.D. Munson Primary School, Mulvane USD 263.Mollie Mills-Weis, Newton High School, Newton USD 373.Kali Stearns, Circle Towanda Elementary School, Circle USD 375.As recipients of the Kansas Horizon Award, these educators are invited to join KEEN, a network of educators from around the state who have been formally recognized for exemplary performance. Members of KEEN have an opportunity to network with other outstanding educators and participate in several professional development programs throughout the year.

2020 Kansas Horizon Award program recognizes 32 first-year educators

Today is Wednesday, Jan. 8, the eighth day of 2020. There are 358 days left in the year.

On Jan. 8, 1815, the last major engagement of the War of 1812 came to an end as U.S. forces defeated the British in the Battle of New Orleans, not having gotten word of the signing of a peace treaty.

In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson outlined his Fourteen Points for lasting peace after World War I. Mississippi became the first state to ratify the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, which established Prohibition.

In 1935, rock-and-roll legend Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi.

In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson, in his State of the Union address, declared an "unconditional war on poverty in America."

In 1968, the Otis Redding single "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" was released on the Volt label almost a month after the singer's death in a plane crash.

In 1973, the Paris peace talks between the United States and North Vietnam resumed.

In 1982, American Telephone and Telegraph settled the Justice Department's antitrust lawsuit against it by agreeing to divest itself of the 22 Bell System companies.

In 1987, for the first time, the Dow Jones industrial average closed above 2,000, ending the day at 2,002.25.

In 1998, Ramzi Yousef, the mastermind of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, was sentenced in New York to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

In 2004, A U.S. Black Hawk medivac helicopter crashed near Fallujah, Iraq, killing all nine soldiers aboard.

In 2006, the first funerals were held in West Virginia for the 12 miners who'd died in the Sago Mine disaster six days earlier.

In 2008, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton powered to victory in New Hampshire's 2008 Democratic primary in a startling upset, defeating Sen. Barack Obama and resurrecting her bid for the White House; Sen. John McCain defeated his Republican rivals to move back into contention for the GOP nomination.

In 2011, U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., was shot and critically wounded when a gunman opened fire as the congresswoman met with constituents in Tucson; six people were killed, 12 others also injured. (Gunman Jared Lee Loughner was sentenced in November 2012 to seven consecutive life sentences, plus 140 years.)

Ten years ago: Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, accused of trying to blow up a U.S. airliner on Christmas, appeared in federal court in Detroit; the judge entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf. (Abdulmutallab eventually pleaded guilty and is serving a life prison term.) Vice President Joe Biden's mother, Jean Biden, died in Wilmington, Delaware, at age 92.

Five years ago: Three dissidents were abruptly released in what a leading human rights advocate said was part of Cuba's deal with Washington to release 53 members of the island's political opposition. Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., a tenacious liberal whose election to the Senate in 1992 heralded a new era for women at the upper reaches of political power, announced she would not seek re-election. During a daylong meeting at the Denver airport, U.S. Olympic Committee board members chose Boston over Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, to bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Gospel singer Andrae Crouch, 72, died in Los Angeles.

One year ago: In a somber televised address, President Donald Trump urged congressional Democrats to fund his border wall and end the stalemate that had shut down much of the government for 18 days; the speech offered little in the way of concessions. Mayor Bill de Blasio said New York City would spend up to $100 million per year to expand health care coverage to people without health insurance, including immigrants in the country illegally.

Today's Birthdays: Actor-comedian Larry Storch is 97. CBS newsman Charles Osgood is 87. Singer Shirley Bassey is 83. Game show host Bob Eubanks is 82. Country-gospel singer Cristy Lane is 80. Rhythm-and-blues singer Anthony Gourdine (Little Anthony and the Imperials) is 79. Actress Yvette Mimieux is 78. Singer Juanita Cowart Motley (The Marvelettes) is 76. Actress Kathleen Noone is 75. Rock musician Robby Krieger (The Doors) is 74. Movie director John McTiernan is 69. Actress Harriet Sansom Harris is 65. Actor Ron Cephas Jones is 63. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is 62. Singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith is 56. Actress Michelle Forbes is 55. Actress Maria Pitillo is 54. Singer R. Kelly is 53. Rock musician Jeff Abercrombie (Fuel) is 51. Actress Ami Dolenz is 51. Reggae singer Sean Paul is 47. Actor Donnell Turner is 47. Country singer Tift Merritt is 45. Actress-rock singer Jenny Lewis is 44. Actress Amber Benson is 43. Actor Scott Whyte is 42. Singer-songwriter Erin McCarley is 41. Actress Sarah Polley is 41. Actress Rachel Nichols is 40. Actress Gaby Hoffman is 38. Rock musician Disashi Lumumbo-Kasongo (Gym Class Heroes) is 37. Actress Cynthia Erivo is 33. Actor Freddie Stroma is 33.

Thought for Today: "Anxiety never yet successfully bridged over any chasm." — Giovanni Ruffini, Italian writer (1807-1881).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Wednesday, Jan. 8, the eighth day of 2020. There are 358 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Jan. 8, 1815, the last major engagement of the War of 1812 came to an end as U.S. forces defeated the British in the Battle of New Orleans, not having gotten word of the signing of a peace treaty.On this date:In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson outlined his Fourteen Points for lasting peace after World War I. Mississippi became the first state to ratify the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, which established Prohibition.In 1935, rock-and-roll legend Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi.In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson, in his State of the Union address, declared an "unconditional war on poverty in America."In 1968, the Otis Redding single "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" was released on the Volt label almost a month after the singer's death in a plane crash.In 1973, the Paris peace talks between the United States and North Vietnam resumed.In 1982, American Telephone and Telegraph settled the Justice Department's antitrust lawsuit against it by agreeing to divest itself of the 22 Bell System companies.In 1987, for the first time, the Dow Jones industrial average closed above 2,000, ending the day at 2,002.25.In 1998, Ramzi Yousef, the mastermind of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, was sentenced in New York to life in prison without the possibility of parole.In 2004, A U.S. Black Hawk medivac helicopter crashed near Fallujah, Iraq, killing all nine soldiers aboard.In 2006, the first funerals were held in West Virginia for the 12 miners who'd died in the Sago Mine disaster six days earlier.In 2008, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton powered to victory in New Hampshire's 2008 Democratic primary in a startling upset, defeating Sen. Barack Obama and resurrecting her bid for the White House; Sen. John McCain defeated his Republican rivals to move back into contention for the GOP nomination.In 2011, U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., was shot and critically wounded when a gunman opened fire as the congresswoman met with constituents in Tucson; six people were killed, 12 others also injured. (Gunman Jared Lee Loughner was sentenced in November 2012 to seven consecutive life sentences, plus 140 years.)Ten years ago: Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, accused of trying to blow up a U.S. airliner on Christmas, appeared in federal court in Detroit; the judge entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf. (Abdulmutallab eventually pleaded guilty and is serving a life prison term.) Vice President Joe Biden's mother, Jean Biden, died in Wilmington, Delaware, at age 92.Five years ago: Three dissidents were abruptly released in what a leading human rights advocate said was part of Cuba's deal with Washington to release 53 members of the island's political opposition. Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., a tenacious liberal whose election to the Senate in 1992 heralded a new era for women at the upper reaches of political power, announced she would not seek re-election. During a daylong meeting at the Denver airport, U.S. Olympic Committee board members chose Boston over Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, to bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Gospel singer Andrae Crouch, 72, died in Los Angeles.One year ago: In a somber televised address, President Donald Trump urged congressional Democrats to fund his border wall and end the stalemate that had shut down much of the government for 18 days; the speech offered little in the way of concessions. Mayor Bill de Blasio said New York City would spend up to $100 million per year to expand health care coverage to people without health insurance, including immigrants in the country illegally.Today's Birthdays: Actor-comedian Larry Storch is 97. CBS newsman Charles Osgood is 87. Singer Shirley Bassey is 83. Game show host Bob Eubanks is 82. Country-gospel singer Cristy Lane is 80. Rhythm-and-blues singer Anthony Gourdine (Little Anthony and the Imperials) is 79. Actress Yvette Mimieux is 78. Singer Juanita Cowart Motley (The Marvelettes) is 76. Actress Kathleen Noone is 75. Rock musician Robby Krieger (The Doors) is 74. Movie director John McTiernan is 69. Actress Harriet Sansom Harris is 65. Actor Ron Cephas Jones is 63. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is 62. Singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith is 56. Actress Michelle Forbes is 55. Actress Maria Pitillo is 54. Singer R. Kelly is 53. Rock musician Jeff Abercrombie (Fuel) is 51. Actress Ami Dolenz is 51. Reggae singer Sean Paul is 47. Actor Donnell Turner is 47. Country singer Tift Merritt is 45. Actress-rock singer Jenny Lewis is 44. Actress Amber Benson is 43. Actor Scott Whyte is 42. Singer-songwriter Erin McCarley is 41. Actress Sarah Polley is 41. Actress Rachel Nichols is 40. Actress Gaby Hoffman is 38. Rock musician Disashi Lumumbo-Kasongo (Gym Class Heroes) is 37. Actress Cynthia Erivo is 33. Actor Freddie Stroma is 33.Thought for Today: "Anxiety never yet successfully bridged over any chasm." — Giovanni Ruffini, Italian writer (1807-1881).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Jan. 8

Saline County Commissioners tackled a variety of agenda items during their meeting Tuesday morning.

Following are highlights from the meeting as provided by Saline County.

Commissioners declared January 2020 as both National Stalking Awareness month and National Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness month with presentations of the proclamations by staff from the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas (DVACK).

Commissioners approved for Rural Fire District No. 5 to proceed with the bid process for the purchase of a new pumper/tanker for the district. They intend of purchasing an apparatus with a 2,000 gallon tank capacity with a larger pump that will also aid in their department rating to assist homeowners with their insurance rates.

Commissioners approved the acceptance of the 2019 Emergency Management Performance Grant in the amount of $33,303. This grant has been received by the department for several years and aids in the ability for Saline County to enhance and sustain its emergency management program.

Commissioners voted to approve the purchase of three new Caterpillar Model 150 motor graders from Foley Equipment. The total amount of this purchase is $819,297. The Road and Bridge Department will be returning three 2015 John Deere 770GP motor graders and will receive $488,220 back to aid in the purchase of these new machines.

Darren Fishel, Road and Bridge director, provided his fourth quarter report on the activities of the department.  The department is currently working with the Kansas Division of Emergency Management in regards to the FEMA reimbursement from the flooding events in 2019. The reimburseable amount is approximately $750,000. The department still has several steps to proceed through before that reimbursement is received. Several tasks were completed in this last quarter to include 25 culvert replacements, building of two Lego style box culverts, rebuilding of five sections of roadway from flood damage, and other routine items.

Commissioners approved a resolution that reviewed the County Commission Districts to update precinct and township locations as well as ensuring that each Commission District was as compact and equal in population as possible to comply with state statutes. 

Saline County receives a portion of funds derived from the gross receipts tax on alcohol in the unincorporated areas of Saline County. These funds are divided through a formula between the General Fund and two special revenue funds: a Special Alcohol Fund from which the proceeds must be used to support services or programs whose principal purpose is alcoholism and drug abuse prevention and education, alcohol and drug detoxification, intervention in alcohol and drug abuse or treatment; and a Special Parks &amp; Recreation fund where the proceeds must be used to support the purchase, establishment, maintenance or expansion of park and recreational services, programs and facilities. Every other year, Saline County solicits applications from agencies seeking to use these funds for their designated purposes. Applications were received and reviewed in 2019 and a small committee comprised of the county administrator and two county commissioners made the recommendation for 2020 allocations to the following organizations.

28th Judicial Community Corrections $4,807.00			

Special Parks &amp; Recreation Fund

The re-organizational meeting of the county commissioners will be next week.  Commissioners will be instituting some changes to include a consent agenda and elimination of their second meeting, after passing a charter resolution and waiting the 60-day period for it to go into effect.  

Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. has been set for the next Town Hall meeting concerning the Saline County Jail project.  Some final details are being worked out and additional notifications will be made once those are finalized.

Phillip Smith-Hanes, county administrator, reported to the commissioners on the correspondence he received from the Salina city manager in regard to the Livestock &amp; Expo Center lease. The city commission will begin working on a more detailed proposal for the county commissioners consideration. With the upcoming commission schedule and the holiday, it might be a few weeks until the county receives further information from the city.

Saline County Commissioners tackled a variety of agenda items during their meeting Tuesday morning.Following are highlights from the meeting as provided by Saline County.Commissioners declared January 2020 as both National Stalking Awareness month and National Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness month with presentations of the proclamations by staff from the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas (DVACK).Commissioners approved for Rural Fire District No. 5 to proceed with the bid process for the purchase of a new pumper/tanker for the district. They intend of purchasing an apparatus with a 2,000 gallon tank capacity with a larger pump that will also aid in their department rating to assist homeowners with their insurance rates.Commissioners approved the acceptance of the 2019 Emergency Management Performance Grant in the amount of $33,303. This grant has been received by the department for several years and aids in the ability for Saline County to enhance and sustain its emergency management program.Commissioners voted to approve the purchase of three new Caterpillar Model 150 motor graders from Foley Equipment. The total amount of this purchase is $819,297. The Road and Bridge Department will be returning three 2015 John Deere 770GP motor graders and will receive $488,220 back to aid in the purchase of these new machines.Darren Fishel, Road and Bridge director, provided his fourth quarter report on the activities of the department. The department is currently working with the Kansas Division of Emergency Management in regards to the FEMA reimbursement from the flooding events in 2019. The reimburseable amount is approximately $750,000. The department still has several steps to proceed through before that reimbursement is received. Several tasks were completed in this last quarter to include 25 culvert replacements, building of two Lego style box culverts, rebuilding of five sections of roadway from flood damage, and other routine items.Commissioners approved a resolution that reviewed the County Commission Districts to update precinct and township locations as well as ensuring that each Commission District was as compact and equal in population as possible to comply with state statutes. Saline County receives a portion of funds derived from the gross receipts tax on alcohol in the unincorporated areas of Saline County. These funds are divided through a formula between the General Fund and two special revenue funds: a Special Alcohol Fund from which the proceeds must be used to support services or programs whose principal purpose is alcoholism and drug abuse prevention and education, alcohol and drug detoxification, intervention in alcohol and drug abuse or treatment; and a Special Parks &amp; Recreation fund where the proceeds must be used to support the purchase, establishment, maintenance or expansion of park and recreational services, programs and facilities. Every other year, Saline County solicits applications from agencies seeking to use these funds for their designated purposes. Applications were received and reviewed in 2019 and a small committee comprised of the county administrator and two county commissioners made the recommendation for 2020 allocations to the following organizations.Special Alcohol Fund				DARE &amp; GREAT $4,473.04			Central Kansas Foundation $1,750.32			Friends of Recovery $1,750.32			Ashby House $1,750.32			Kansas Wesleyan University $2,800.00			28th Judicial Community Corrections $4,807.00			Special Parks &amp; Recreation Fund			ARC of Saline County $1,879.25			4-H Council $1,879.25			Assaria Youth $1,879.25			City of Gypsum $1,879.25			The re-organizational meeting of the county commissioners will be next week. Commissioners will be instituting some changes to include a consent agenda and elimination of their second meeting, after passing a charter resolution and waiting the 60-day period for it to go into effect. Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. has been set for the next Town Hall meeting concerning the Saline County Jail project. Some final details are being worked out and additional notifications will be made once those are finalized.Phillip Smith-Hanes, county administrator, reported to the commissioners on the correspondence he received from the Salina city manager in regard to the Livestock &amp; Expo Center lease. The city commission will begin working on a more detailed proposal for the county commissioners consideration. With the upcoming commission schedule and the holiday, it might be a few weeks until the county receives further information from the city.

County commissioners work through busy agenda

Chances for grassland fires in the area are expected to be elevated on Wednesday.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita,&nbsp;strong and gusty south winds will support very high to extreme grassland fire danger across the region Wednesday afternoon into the evening. Please avoid outdoor burning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578447733608.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chances for grassland fires in the area are expected to be elevated on Wednesday.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita,&nbsp;strong and gusty south winds will support very high to extreme grassland fire danger across the region Wednesday afternoon into the evening. Please avoid outdoor burning.

NWS: Grassland fire danger elevated Wednesday

Vonn Malcuit of Concordia was already a big fan of 
the $2 Celebrate Kansas ticket because of the extended play style. Now 
he has even more reasons to celebrate after his $10,000 top prize win.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

“I was at the store and was going to play some crossword games, but 
instead decided to try my luck on the Celebrate Kansas tickets,” said 
Malcuit. “I thought the ticket looked fun, since it was covered in 
balloons. It reminded me of the balloon pop game at the state fair!”&nbsp;

Malcuit took the ticket home to play. He was sitting at the kitchen 
table when he started counting symbols and that’s when he realized he 
had a special ticket.&nbsp;

“I kept counting over and over again,” Malcuit said. “Finally I took 
it back to the store and checked it there, and they said I was going to 
have to claim it in Topeka and they gave me a claim form. That’s when I 
knew it was the real deal!”&nbsp;

Even sitting in the Kansas Lottery office, Malcuit was still in 
disbelief. “I feel like someone is going to pinch me and I’m going to 
wake up,” he said with a smile. “But here I am with this big check, so 
it must be real!”&nbsp;

Malcuit says he plans to use the money to pay off some bills and will put the rest into his savings.&nbsp;

The winning ticket was purchased at Woods Mini Mart 27 on 203 6th Street in Concordia. There are no top prizes left in the <a href="https://kslottery.com/games/instants/?gameid=107">$2 Celebrate Kansas</a> instant scratch game. The game will end, and players will have six months from the end date to claim any remaining prizes.&nbsp;

Players are invited to submit all their winning and non-winning tickets in the Kansas Lottery <a href="https://www.kslottery.com/PlayOn/index.html">PlayOn® Players Loyalty</a>
 program to earn points for drawing entries and a chance to win cash and
 other prizes!&nbsp; PlayOn® is a registered trademark of Pollard Banknote 
Limited used under license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578437201620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas LotteryVonn Malcuit of Concordia was already a big fan of 
the $2 Celebrate Kansas ticket because of the extended play style. Now 
he has even more reasons to celebrate after his $10,000 top prize win.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;“I was at the store and was going to play some crossword games, but 
instead decided to try my luck on the Celebrate Kansas tickets,” said 
Malcuit. “I thought the ticket looked fun, since it was covered in 
balloons. It reminded me of the balloon pop game at the state fair!”&nbsp;Malcuit took the ticket home to play. He was sitting at the kitchen 
table when he started counting symbols and that’s when he realized he 
had a special ticket.&nbsp;“I kept counting over and over again,” Malcuit said. “Finally I took 
it back to the store and checked it there, and they said I was going to 
have to claim it in Topeka and they gave me a claim form. That’s when I 
knew it was the real deal!”&nbsp;Even sitting in the Kansas Lottery office, Malcuit was still in 
disbelief. “I feel like someone is going to pinch me and I’m going to 
wake up,” he said with a smile. “But here I am with this big check, so 
it must be real!”&nbsp;Malcuit says he plans to use the money to pay off some bills and will put the rest into his savings.&nbsp;The winning ticket was purchased at Woods Mini Mart 27 on 203 6th Street in Concordia. There are no top prizes left in the <a href="https://kslottery.com/games/instants/?gameid=107">$2 Celebrate Kansas</a> instant scratch game. The game will end, and players will have six months from the end date to claim any remaining prizes.&nbsp;Players are invited to submit all their winning and non-winning tickets in the Kansas Lottery <a href="https://www.kslottery.com/PlayOn/index.html">PlayOn® Players Loyalty</a>
 program to earn points for drawing entries and a chance to win cash and
 other prizes!&nbsp; PlayOn® is a registered trademark of Pollard Banknote 
Limited used under license.

Concordia man scores with Celebrate Kansas lottery ticket

WICHITA — The American Red Cross currently has a critical need for blood donors of all blood types – especially type O –to make an appointment now to give and help replenish the blood supply after the holiday weeks. 

Right now, the Red Cross has less than a three-day supply of type O blood. To help tackle the critical need, the Red Cross and NFL are working together to offer one lucky winner a trip to Super Bowl LIV in Miami.

During the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s, about 500 fewer blood drives were hosted by volunteer sponsor groups than required to meet patient needs. Many groups postpone blood drives during the winter holidays when travel and holiday activities may make it challenging for many donors to give. In fact, AAA estimated that a record 115.6 million Americans traveled during the holiday period of Dec. 21 through Jan. 1.  

“Lifesaving medical treatments and emergencies never take a holiday,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Declines in donations can affect patient care. That’s why the Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to make an appointment to give now and help those sidelined by illness and trauma.”

Donors are urged to make an appointment to give now using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting <a href="http://RedCrossBlood.org">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

As a special thank-you, those who come to give blood Jan. 1-19, 2020, will automatically be entered for a chance to experience the Super Bowl live. The Red Cross and NFL have teamed up to offer one winner two tickets to Super Bowl LIV, entry to the official NFL Tailgate, tickets to Super Bowl Experience at the Miami Beach Convention Center, round-trip airfare to Miami, three-night hotel accommodations at The Alexander® - All Suite Oceanfront Resort (Jan. 31 to Feb. 3, and a $500 gift card for expenses.* Additional details are available at <a href="http://RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl">RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl</a>.

“The Red Cross appreciates the NFL’s support during this crucial time of year when every donation – and every donor – matters. We hope this may inspire some to make regular blood donation one of their New Year’s resolutions,” said Sullivan.

This fall, 13-year-old Josh Roy and his family learned the importance of blood donations firsthand. In October, Josh contracted a severe case of influenza B and necrotizing staph pneumonia. He was transported to the hospital, was put on an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine that circulates blood through an artificial lung and eventually needed a tracheostomy tube. Josh has received multiple blood transfusions during his treatment.

“You never know when someone you love might end up needing a blood transfusion,” said Jaqueline Bakehorn, Josh’s aunt. “We are so thankful for those who have given blood and would love to see more people donate.”

Josh is still hospitalized but is making slow, gradual progress. He faces a long road to recovery and may need additional blood transfusions along the way.

Upcoming local and area blood donation opportunities include the following.

Jan. 16, noon-6 p.m., VFW Hall, 401 Washington

Jan. 22, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Ellsworth High School, 211 W. 11th

Jan. 24, 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 2807 Avenue D, Box 528

Monday, 2:30-6 p.m., Mankato Community Center, 214 N. High

Jan. 24, noon-6 p.m., Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 308 North Indiana

Jan. 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Marion High School, 701 E. Main

Jan. 16, noon-6 p.m., Community Center, 100 W. McPherson

Jan. 18, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sunflower School, 2192 Eisenhower

Jan. 22, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Bethany Home, 321 N. Chestnut

Jan. 27, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Smoky Valley High School, 1 Viking Blvd.

Jan. 27, noon-6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 224 S. Main

Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Prairieland Partners John Deere, 2401 E. Northview

Friday, 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., McPherson YMCA, 220 N. Walnut

Jan. 16, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., City of McPherson, 400, E. Kansas Ave

Jan. 20, noon-6 p.m., St Joseph Catholic Church, 520 E. Northview

Jan. 21, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., St Joseph Catholic Church, 520 E. Northview

Jan. 28, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Central Christian College, 1200 S. Maple

Jan. 29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Grace Crossing Church, 111 Cole Street

Wednesday, 1-7 p.m., Bennington Community Fire/EMS, 584 N. 180th Road

Jan. 20, 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Community Center, 200 Baird Street

Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Scandia Library, 318 Fourth Street

Jan. 28, noon- 6 p.m., Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W. First

Thursday, noon-6 p.m., Church of the Cross, 1600 Rush

Jan. 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tonys Pizza Service, 3123 Centennial Road

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®&nbsp;to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2FAmericanRedCrossBiomed.pr-optout.com%2FTracking.aspx%3FData%3DHHL%253d8494%253b5-%253eLCE3%253a368%253e9-GLCE17.6%26RE%3DMO%26RI%3D1799164%26Preview%3DFalse%26DistributionActionID%3D303725%26Action%3DFollow%2BLink&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C7ea13b42effc42c1b0ab08d792b500af%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637139178402295325&amp;sdata=k3Yse0rRK6GENMBNKxC7XXHdaWeSNm2BBulFVaOv3Uk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the Blood Donor App.

*Terms and conditions apply. More information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl. Valid email address is required. Limit three (3) entries per presenting donor. Winner will be selected and notified via the email listed in their American Red Cross donor profile on or around Jan. 24, 2020. Offer is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash. Void where prohibited. Giveaway begins Jan. 1, 2020, and ends Jan. 19, 2020. The prize shall not be sold on any internet site and any ticket that has been re-sold via the internet will be nullified. The National Football League’s licensed marks (“NFL”; “National Football League” and the NFL Shield design, “Super Bowl” and the Super Bowl LIV logo) on any giveaway related materials have been reviewed by NFL and are used with permission. The NFL Entities have not offered or sponsored this giveaway in any way.

WICHITA — The American Red Cross currently has a critical need for blood donors of all blood types – especially type O –to make an appointment now to give and help replenish the blood supply after the holiday weeks. Right now, the Red Cross has less than a three-day supply of type O blood. To help tackle the critical need, the Red Cross and NFL are working together to offer one lucky winner a trip to Super Bowl LIV in Miami.During the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s, about 500 fewer blood drives were hosted by volunteer sponsor groups than required to meet patient needs. Many groups postpone blood drives during the winter holidays when travel and holiday activities may make it challenging for many donors to give. In fact, AAA estimated that a record 115.6 million Americans traveled during the holiday period of Dec. 21 through Jan. 1. “Lifesaving medical treatments and emergencies never take a holiday,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Declines in donations can affect patient care. That’s why the Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to make an appointment to give now and help those sidelined by illness and trauma.”Donors are urged to make an appointment to give now using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting <a href="http://RedCrossBlood.org">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.As a special thank-you, those who come to give blood Jan. 1-19, 2020, will automatically be entered for a chance to experience the Super Bowl live. The Red Cross and NFL have teamed up to offer one winner two tickets to Super Bowl LIV, entry to the official NFL Tailgate, tickets to Super Bowl Experience at the Miami Beach Convention Center, round-trip airfare to Miami, three-night hotel accommodations at The Alexander® - All Suite Oceanfront Resort (Jan. 31 to Feb. 3, and a $500 gift card for expenses.* Additional details are available at <a href="http://RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl">RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl</a>.“The Red Cross appreciates the NFL’s support during this crucial time of year when every donation – and every donor – matters. We hope this may inspire some to make regular blood donation one of their New Year’s resolutions,” said Sullivan.Who blood donations helpThis fall, 13-year-old Josh Roy and his family learned the importance of blood donations firsthand. In October, Josh contracted a severe case of influenza B and necrotizing staph pneumonia. He was transported to the hospital, was put on an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine that circulates blood through an artificial lung and eventually needed a tracheostomy tube. Josh has received multiple blood transfusions during his treatment.“You never know when someone you love might end up needing a blood transfusion,” said Jaqueline Bakehorn, Josh’s aunt. “We are so thankful for those who have given blood and would love to see more people donate.”Josh is still hospitalized but is making slow, gradual progress. He faces a long road to recovery and may need additional blood transfusions along the way.Upcoming local and area blood donation opportunities include the following.<h2>Cloud County</h2>ClydeJan. 16, noon-6 p.m., VFW Hall, 401 Washington<h2>Ellsworth County</h2>EllsworthJan. 22, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Ellsworth High School, 211 W. 11thWilsonJan. 24, 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 2807 Avenue D, Box 528<h2>Jewell County</h2>MankatoMonday, 2:30-6 p.m., Mankato Community Center, 214 N. High<h2>Lincoln County</h2>Sylvan GroveJan. 24, noon-6 p.m., Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 308 North Indiana<h2>Marion County</h2>MarionJan. 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Marion High School, 701 E. Main<h2>McPherson County</h2>CantonJan. 16, noon-6 p.m., Community Center, 100 W. McPhersonGalvaJan. 18, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sunflower School, 2192 EisenhowerLindsborgJan. 22, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Bethany Home, 321 N. ChestnutJan. 27, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Smoky Valley High School, 1 Viking Blvd.Jan. 27, noon-6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 224 S. MainMcPhersonThursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Prairieland Partners John Deere, 2401 E. NorthviewFriday, 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., McPherson YMCA, 220 N. WalnutJan. 16, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., City of McPherson, 400, E. Kansas AveJan. 20, noon-6 p.m., St Joseph Catholic Church, 520 E. NorthviewJan. 21, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., St Joseph Catholic Church, 520 E. NorthviewJan. 28, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Central Christian College, 1200 S. MapleMoundridgeJan. 29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Grace Crossing Church, 111 Cole Street<h2>Ottawa County</h2>BenningtonWednesday, 1-7 p.m., Bennington Community Fire/EMS, 584 N. 180th Road<h2>Republic County</h2>CubaJan. 20, 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Community Center, 200 Baird StreetScandiaJan. 29, 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Scandia Library, 318 Fourth Street<h2>Saline County</h2>AssariaJan. 28, noon- 6 p.m., Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W. FirstSalinaThursday, noon-6 p.m., Church of the Cross, 1600 RushJan. 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tonys Pizza Service, 3123 Centennial RoadHow to donate bloodAll blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®&nbsp;to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2FAmericanRedCrossBiomed.pr-optout.com%2FTracking.aspx%3FData%3DHHL%253d8494%253b5-%253eLCE3%253a368%253e9-GLCE17.6%26RE%3DMO%26RI%3D1799164%26Preview%3DFalse%26DistributionActionID%3D303725%26Action%3DFollow%2BLink&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C7ea13b42effc42c1b0ab08d792b500af%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637139178402295325&amp;sdata=k3Yse0rRK6GENMBNKxC7XXHdaWeSNm2BBulFVaOv3Uk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the Blood Donor App.*Terms and conditions apply. More information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl. Valid email address is required. Limit three (3) entries per presenting donor. Winner will be selected and notified via the email listed in their American Red Cross donor profile on or around Jan. 24, 2020. Offer is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash. Void where prohibited. Giveaway begins Jan. 1, 2020, and ends Jan. 19, 2020. The prize shall not be sold on any internet site and any ticket that has been re-sold via the internet will be nullified. The National Football League’s licensed marks (“NFL”; “National Football League” and the NFL Shield design, “Super Bowl” and the Super Bowl LIV logo) on any giveaway related materials have been reviewed by NFL and are used with permission. The NFL Entities have not offered or sponsored this giveaway in any way.

Red Cross has critical need for blood; local, area drives listed

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

The Saline County Sheriff's Office is investigating multiple reports of mailboxes being damaged or destroyed southeast of Salina.

According to Sheriff Roger Soldan, the Sheriff's Office has received 14 reports of mailboxes being damaged or destroyed sometime between 5 p.m. Sunday and 7:52 a.m. Monday. Damage ranged from some mailboxes being knocked off their posts to mailboxes being destroyed, he said. Total loss was estimated at $800, Soldan said.

The incidents occurred between the 1500 block of East Water Well Road to the 3300 block of East Water Well Road and the 800 block of South Simpson Road to the 2700 block of South Simpson Road, Soldan said.

If you have information about these crimes, you are asked to contact the Saline County Sheriff's Office at 785-826-6500.

The Saline County Sheriff's Office is investigating multiple reports of mailboxes being damaged or destroyed southeast of Salina.According to Sheriff Roger Soldan, the Sheriff's Office has received 14 reports of mailboxes being damaged or destroyed sometime between 5 p.m. Sunday and 7:52 a.m. Monday. Damage ranged from some mailboxes being knocked off their posts to mailboxes being destroyed, he said. Total loss was estimated at $800, Soldan said.The incidents occurred between the 1500 block of East Water Well Road to the 3300 block of East Water Well Road and the 800 block of South Simpson Road to the 2700 block of South Simpson Road, Soldan said.If you have information about these crimes, you are asked to contact the Saline County Sheriff's Office at 785-826-6500.

Multiple mailboxes damaged, destroyed southeast of Salina

OCCK seeks an administrative support specialist in Salina.

Assisting the organization with secretarial duties and computer entry as assigned

Supporting staff with computer software needs

Assist in maintaining Case Records and persons served and family mailing lists

Assist with the implementation and completion of destruction of appropriate records

Assist in making all arrangements associated with outside staff development training including registration, lodging, and airline

Assist in maintaining agency mailing lists for newsletters, etc.

Responsible for sending and distributing fax mail

Assist staff in scheduling appointments/meetings

Answer telephones when receptionist takes breaks, goes to lunch, or is absent.&nbsp; Reception rotation, relay calls, and TDD calls

Provide clerical and organizational support for Team Leaders on an as-needed basis

Assist in emergency evacuation procedures as described in Safety Manual

Type supported employment-related contracts and associated correspondence

Participate in staff meetings and committee assignments as requested by the Office and Admin Support Manager

Complete special projects as requested by the Office and Admin Support Manager

Maintain and perform other duties as assigned by the&nbsp;Office and Admin Support Manager

Must have at least two years clerical experience.&nbsp;

Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.&nbsp;

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 </figure>OCCK seeks an administrative support specialist in Salina.<h2>Job responsibilities</h2>Assisting the organization with secretarial duties and computer entry as assignedSupporting staff with computer software needsAssist in maintaining Case Records and persons served and family mailing listsAssist with the implementation and completion of destruction of appropriate recordsAssist in making all arrangements associated with outside staff development training including registration, lodging, and airlineAssist in maintaining agency mailing lists for newsletters, etc.Responsible for sending and distributing fax mailAssist staff in scheduling appointments/meetingsAnswer telephones when receptionist takes breaks, goes to lunch, or is absent.&nbsp; Reception rotation, relay calls, and TDD callsProvide clerical and organizational support for Team Leaders on an as-needed basisAssist in emergency evacuation procedures as described in Safety ManualType supported employment-related contracts and associated correspondenceParticipate in staff meetings and committee assignments as requested by the Office and Admin Support ManagerComplete special projects as requested by the Office and Admin Support ManagerMaintain and perform other duties as assigned by the&nbsp;Office and Admin Support Manager<h2>Job qualifications</h2>MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:&nbsp;Must have at least two years clerical experience.&nbsp;Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.&nbsp;Must have strong working knowledge of and experience with Microsoft Office products, including Word, PowerPoint, Access and Excel.&nbsp;Must have the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.&nbsp;Must meet the eligibility requirements of the auto insurance company providingcoverage for OCCK vehicles or have access to transportation.EDUCATION AND TRAINING: &nbsp;Associates degree or certification in secretarial science, business administration, or a related field preferred.Apply at&nbsp;<a href="http://jobs.occk.com/careers">http://jobs.occk.com/careers</a>

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