Comfort Heating and Air Salute to Service honoree Ben Gardner has been selected as this year's winner of the grand prize drawing!

Ben is a technical trooper with the Kansas Highway Patrol and currently serves as public resource officer for Troop C, which covers north-central Kansas and is headquartered in Salina.

The grand prize includes lower level tickets to the Chiefs-Chargers game on Dec. 29, VIP, 2 nights’ hotel stay at the Holiday Inn Kansas City Downtown, and a Chiefs fan pack valued at more than $1,000.

"I want to sincerely thank all of this year's nominees and the people who took time to nominate them.  Our staff appreciates all of our service men and women and all they do for our community. Congrats Trooper Ben and go Chiefs!" said Tucker Hilbert owner Comfort Heating &amp; Air.

Following are the 2019 Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service nominees.

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc99b53897d147ad4bb0b59" target="_blank">Week 1 Chris Rios</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc99fc8897d147ad4bb0b5d" target="_blank">Week 2 Timothy Wymore</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d261897d147ad4bb0b71" target="_blank">Week 3 Lee Soldan</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d4c4897d147ad4bb0b73" target="_blank">Week 4 Jim Hughes</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d930897d147ad4bb0b77" target="_blank">Week 6 Chad Scoville</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9da56897d147ad4bb0b79" target="_blank">Week 7 Scott Hogeland</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9dbaf897d147ad4bb0b7b" target="_blank">Week 8 Nick Kingan</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9dc94897d147ad4bb0b7d" target="_blank">Week 9 Casey Collier</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9de44897d147ad4bb0b7f" target="_blank">Week 10 Jason Wesoloski</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dd1b979897d147ad4bb0f59" target="_blank">Week 11 Ben Gardner</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dda0884897d147ad4bb1541" target="_blank">Week 12 William Polly</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5de3c6a5897d147ad4bb1bcd" target="_blank">Week 13 Roger Soldan</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dec5664dbb37271bc7eee0e">Week 14 Kenny Bernard</a>

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5df4f72d57544d3fe90e7901">Week 15 Chase Copeland</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574027189747.jpeg" alt="Trooper Ben Gardner" />
 <figcaption>Trooper Ben Gardner</figcaption>
 </figure>Comfort Heating and Air Salute to Service honoree Ben Gardner has been selected as this year's winner of the grand prize drawing!Ben is a technical trooper with the Kansas Highway Patrol and currently serves as public resource officer for Troop C, which covers north-central Kansas and is headquartered in Salina.The grand prize includes lower level tickets to the Chiefs-Chargers game on Dec. 29, VIP, 2 nights’ hotel stay at the Holiday Inn Kansas City Downtown, and a Chiefs fan pack valued at more than $1,000."I want to sincerely thank all of this year's nominees and the people who took time to nominate them. Our staff appreciates all of our service men and women and all they do for our community. Congrats Trooper Ben and go Chiefs!" said Tucker Hilbert owner Comfort Heating &amp; Air.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573494237928.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following are the 2019 Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service nominees.<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc99b53897d147ad4bb0b59" target="_blank">Week 1 Chris Rios</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc99fc8897d147ad4bb0b5d" target="_blank">Week 2 Timothy Wymore</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d261897d147ad4bb0b71" target="_blank">Week 3 Lee Soldan</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d4c4897d147ad4bb0b73" target="_blank">Week 4 Jim Hughes</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d5c2897d147ad4bb0b75" target="_blank">Week 5 Troy Long and K9 Hoke</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9d930897d147ad4bb0b77" target="_blank">Week 6 Chad Scoville</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9da56897d147ad4bb0b79" target="_blank">Week 7 Scott Hogeland</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9dbaf897d147ad4bb0b7b" target="_blank">Week 8 Nick Kingan</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9dc94897d147ad4bb0b7d" target="_blank">Week 9 Casey Collier</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dc9de44897d147ad4bb0b7f" target="_blank">Week 10 Jason Wesoloski</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dd1b979897d147ad4bb0f59" target="_blank">Week 11 Ben Gardner</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dda0884897d147ad4bb1541" target="_blank">Week 12 William Polly</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5de3c6a5897d147ad4bb1bcd" target="_blank">Week 13 Roger Soldan</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dec5664dbb37271bc7eee0e">Week 14 Kenny Bernard</a><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5df4f72d57544d3fe90e7901">Week 15 Chase Copeland</a>

Congratulations Trooper Ben Gardner!

A local drug bust operation at four locations simultaneously Tuesday morning prevented a great deal of methamphetamine from being sold in the area.

Since mid-2019, the Salina/Saline County I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force has been investigating a group of individuals who have been distributing methamphetamine in Salina and the surrounding area. The investigation revealed that several individuals were operating from multiple residences inside Salina, and were engaged in an ongoing narcotics distribution operation.

On Tuesday at approximately 9 a.m., four drug search warrants were served simultaneously in Salina. The four locations were:

As a result of these search warrants, nine individuals were arrested, including suspects who resided at each of the target locations.

During the execution of the search warrants, the following individuals were located and arrested on suspicion of various drug crimes.

Arthur A. Strickland, 30, 617 W. Grand Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Kennard L. Canada Jr., 59, 617 W. Grand Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute

Michael J. Thompson, 42, 733 Merrill Street, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Mitchell County District Court warrant/Distribution of Methamphetamine

Darin D. Ames, 58, 1719 Beach Street, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Patrick T. Yonemura, Jr., 39, 1426 Pawnee Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Summer D. Duncan, 1426 Pawnee Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Salina Municipal Court / Failure to Appear

Saline County District Court / Probation Violation (two times)

Geary County District Court / Failure to Appear

Thomas M. Vargas II, 49, 918 N.11th Street, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Patricia A. Purcell, 28, 1018 N. 8th, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Lacey M. Nunnally, 20, homeless in Salina, arrested on suspicion of the following.

Saline County District Court / Failure to Appear

During the service of these search warrants, the Drug Task Force recovered approximately one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine, more than $2,500 in currency, and one firearm. In addition, three vehicles were seized after the Salina Police Department's K-9s indicated on the presence of an odor of illegal narcotics emanating from within each vehicle. The search of each vehicle is pending a search warrant request made to the Saline County District Court.

The Salina Police Department would like to thank the Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team for assisting our SPD SWAT Team in executing these four drug search warrants. Additionally, the Salina Police Department would like to thank the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Dickinson County Drug Enforcement Unit for their assistance during this investigation.

This police investigation is ongoing. If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow the Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000 and you are not required to give your name.

A local drug bust operation at four locations simultaneously Tuesday morning prevented a great deal of methamphetamine from being sold in the area.Since mid-2019, the Salina/Saline County I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force has been investigating a group of individuals who have been distributing methamphetamine in Salina and the surrounding area. The investigation revealed that several individuals were operating from multiple residences inside Salina, and were engaged in an ongoing narcotics distribution operation.On Tuesday at approximately 9 a.m., four drug search warrants were served simultaneously in Salina. The four locations were:617 W. Grand Avenue733 Merrill Street1426 Pawnee Avenue1719 Beach StreetAs a result of these search warrants, nine individuals were arrested, including suspects who resided at each of the target locations.During the execution of the search warrants, the following individuals were located and arrested on suspicion of various drug crimes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576682760481.jpeg" alt="Arthur A. Strickland. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Arthur A. Strickland. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Arthur A. Strickland, 30, 617 W. Grand Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of MethamphetaminePossession of Drug Paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576682674535.jpeg" alt="Kennard L. Canada" />
 <figcaption>Kennard L. Canada</figcaption>
 </figure>Kennard L. Canada Jr., 59, 617 W. Grand Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeFelony Possession of Drug ParaphernaliaPossession of Drug ParaphernaliaTax Stamp ViolationCriminal Possession of a Firearm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576682844377.jpeg" alt="Michael J. Thompson" />
 <figcaption>Michael J. Thompson</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael J. Thompson, 42, 733 Merrill Street, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributePossession of MethamphetamineFelony Possession of Drug ParaphernaliaPossession of Drug ParaphernaliaTax Stamp ViolationMitchell County District Court warrant/Distribution of Methamphetamine<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576682131411.jpeg" alt="Darin D. Ames" />
 <figcaption>Darin D. Ames</figcaption>
 </figure>Darin D. Ames, 58, 1719 Beach Street, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeFelony Possession of Drug ParaphernaliaPossession of Drug ParaphernaliaTax Stamp Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576682492973.jpeg" alt="Patrick T. Yonemura, Jr." />
 <figcaption>Patrick T. Yonemura, Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure>Patrick T. Yonemura, Jr., 39, 1426 Pawnee Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributePossession of MethamphetamineFelony Possession of Drug ParaphernaliaPossession of Drug ParaphernaliaTax Stamp Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576681087440.jpeg" alt="Summer D. Duncan" />
 <figcaption>Summer D. Duncan</figcaption>
 </figure>Summer D. Duncan, 1426 Pawnee Avenue, arrested on suspicion of the following.Salina Municipal Court / Failure to AppearSaline County District Court / Probation Violation (two times)Geary County District Court / Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576682582210.jpeg" alt="Thomas M. Vargas II" />
 <figcaption>Thomas M. Vargas II</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas M. Vargas II, 49, 918 N.11th Street, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of MethamphetamineNo Kansas Drug Tax StampPossession of Drug Paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576681475591.jpeg" alt="Patricia A. Purcell" />
 <figcaption>Patricia A. Purcell</figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia A. Purcell, 28, 1018 N. 8th, arrested on suspicion of the following.Possession of MethamphetaminePossession of Drug Paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576681326057.jpeg" alt="Lacey M. Nunnally" />
 <figcaption>Lacey M. Nunnally</figcaption>
 </figure>Lacey M. Nunnally, 20, homeless in Salina, arrested on suspicion of the following.Saline County District Court / Failure to AppearPossession of MethamphetaminePossession of Drug ParaphernaliaDuring the service of these search warrants, the Drug Task Force recovered approximately one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine, more than $2,500 in currency, and one firearm. In addition, three vehicles were seized after the Salina Police Department's K-9s indicated on the presence of an odor of illegal narcotics emanating from within each vehicle. The search of each vehicle is pending a search warrant request made to the Saline County District Court.The Salina Police Department would like to thank the Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team for assisting our SPD SWAT Team in executing these four drug search warrants. Additionally, the Salina Police Department would like to thank the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Dickinson County Drug Enforcement Unit for their assistance during this investigation.This police investigation is ongoing. If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow the Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000 and you are not required to give your name.

I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force arrests nine at four locations Tuesday

Kansas Wesleyan University debate and forensics ended the semester on a high note with strong results at Cameron University’s Christmas Swing tournament in Lawton, Okla. Dec. 7-8.&nbsp;

In parliamentary debate, Cassity Morlan, Kechi, and Bryce Boyd. Oklahoma City, Okla., advanced to the finals and earned the runner-up spot, while Abby Wray, Wichita,&nbsp; and Madi Mitchell, Mulvane,&nbsp; made it into the semifinals.

In individual events on Dec. 7, Mitchell was the winner in communication analysis, while Boyd earned a trio of third-place finishes, accomplishing that feat in impromptu speaking, extemporaneous speaking and informative speaking. Morlan, meanwhile, placed seventh in poetry and sixth in impromptu speaking, while Wray placed fifth in extemporaneous speaking.&nbsp;

The Dec. 8 portion of the tournament was also successful for KWU, as Boyd finished second in both informative and impromptu speaking, as well as fifth in extemporaneous speaking. Wray was third in both poetry and informative speaking, and Mitchell finished third in communication analysis and seventh in impromptu speaking.

The team finished third in overall sweepstakes for the tournament, including both debate and individual forensics events.

KWU debate and forensics will return to action in late January, when the team heads to St. Louis to participate in Webster University’s Gorlak Gala.

Kansas Wesleyan University debate and forensics ended the semester on a high note with strong results at Cameron University’s Christmas Swing tournament in Lawton, Okla. Dec. 7-8.&nbsp;In parliamentary debate, Cassity Morlan, Kechi, and Bryce Boyd. Oklahoma City, Okla., advanced to the finals and earned the runner-up spot, while Abby Wray, Wichita,&nbsp; and Madi Mitchell, Mulvane,&nbsp; made it into the semifinals.In individual events on Dec. 7, Mitchell was the winner in communication analysis, while Boyd earned a trio of third-place finishes, accomplishing that feat in impromptu speaking, extemporaneous speaking and informative speaking. Morlan, meanwhile, placed seventh in poetry and sixth in impromptu speaking, while Wray placed fifth in extemporaneous speaking.&nbsp;The Dec. 8 portion of the tournament was also successful for KWU, as Boyd finished second in both informative and impromptu speaking, as well as fifth in extemporaneous speaking. Wray was third in both poetry and informative speaking, and Mitchell finished third in communication analysis and seventh in impromptu speaking.The team finished third in overall sweepstakes for the tournament, including both debate and individual forensics events.KWU debate and forensics will return to action in late January, when the team heads to St. Louis to participate in Webster University’s Gorlak Gala.

KWU debate and forensics competes in Oklahoma

To prepare for the upcoming spring calving season, the Central Kansas, River Valley, and Post Rock Extension Districts will be hosting an always popular K-State Calving School in late January. 

This program will outline overall calving management and increase knowledge, practical skills, and the number of live calves raised.

The school will be held on Jan. 23 in the K-State Polytechnic College Center Conference Room located at 2310 Centennial Rd. Start time is at 6 p.m. There is no cost to attend, but participants need to RSVP by Jan. 17 either by visiting <a href="http://www.postrock.ksu.edu">www.postrock.ksu.edu</a> (Events, calling (785) 392-2147, or emailing <a href="mailto:crensink@ksu.edu">crensink@ksu.edu</a>.

The meeting will begin with dinner sponsored by MULTIMIN 90 and a presentation from Shawn Ryan, MULTIMIN USA Technical Sales Representative for Kansas and Nebraska. After the meal, Cade Rensink and Brett Melton, livestock production agents for the Central Kansas and River Valley extension districts, respectively, will discuss environmental considerations for cow/calf health and performance.

To cap off the evening, Dr. AJ Tarpoff, K-State Extension beef veterinarian, will outline the stages of the normal calving process and tips to handle difficult calving situations, as well as when and how to intervene to assist cows and young heifers. Tarpoff will engage the audience by illustrating these points and demonstrating proper use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model.

To prepare for the upcoming spring calving season, the Central Kansas, River Valley, and Post Rock Extension Districts will be hosting an always popular K-State Calving School in late January. This program will outline overall calving management and increase knowledge, practical skills, and the number of live calves raised.The school will be held on Jan. 23 in the K-State Polytechnic College Center Conference Room located at 2310 Centennial Rd. Start time is at 6 p.m. There is no cost to attend, but participants need to RSVP by Jan. 17 either by visiting <a href="http://www.postrock.ksu.edu">www.postrock.ksu.edu</a> (Events, calling (785) 392-2147, or emailing <a href="mailto:crensink@ksu.edu">crensink@ksu.edu</a>.The meeting will begin with dinner sponsored by MULTIMIN 90 and a presentation from Shawn Ryan, MULTIMIN USA Technical Sales Representative for Kansas and Nebraska. After the meal, Cade Rensink and Brett Melton, livestock production agents for the Central Kansas and River Valley extension districts, respectively, will discuss environmental considerations for cow/calf health and performance.To cap off the evening, Dr. AJ Tarpoff, K-State Extension beef veterinarian, will outline the stages of the normal calving process and tips to handle difficult calving situations, as well as when and how to intervene to assist cows and young heifers. Tarpoff will engage the audience by illustrating these points and demonstrating proper use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model.

K-State calving school in Salina on Jan. 23

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher

Kansas Farm Bureau members just finished celebrating our first 100 years. I say the first 100 years because one thing that became very clear to me this year was KFB is very much a healthy and vibrant organization. We have weathered tough times, grown as an operation and become the biggest and most influential general farm organization in the state.﻿

This year we crafted a strategic plan to serve as a road map for the near future of KFB. This document was created with input from all 105 county Farm Bureaus and many, many hours of volunteer time from a task force. It is a living document meant to help keep KFB the thriving, growing organization of which we all can be proud.

One of the things brought to light in the strategic plan process is the need for our organization to be more inclusive and continue to be the umbrella farm group where all producers can find a home. As we continue to face challenges in agriculture, more and more of us look for ideas that can only be described as out of the box. The list of niche or small agriculture ventures is long and varied, but Kansas Farm Bureau needs to be the place that all are welcomed and the voice that speaks for everyone.

We do not want to forget our traditional agriculture roots. Those of us who raise conventional crops and livestock will continue to be the backbone of the organization. However, we must also welcome others to the table. I don’t think I need to remind anyone that we are less than 2 percent of the population — that’s all of us. We need to make sure we have a united voice.

Another main point of the strategic plan is we must find a way to strengthen our county Farm Bureaus. Just like the rest of agriculture, some of our counties have fallen on tough times and have seen membership dwindle as our rural population shrinks. We must make sure the very essence of our grassroots, the county Farm Bureaus, continues to be the foundation of the organization.

Without input from every corner of the state, we will not be a whole organization, and it will be hard to represent the needs of all farmers and ranchers. What will it take to strengthen and help support each county? I would guess there are 105 different answers, and we must think outside the box. Each county Farm Bureau is a dynamic entity unto itself. There is no cookie-cutter answer.

These are only two of the main points in the strategic plan. Each was crafted after a great deal of input and even more thought and discussion. As proud as I am to be a member of Kansas Farm Bureau and the rich history of the past 100 years, I am even more excited and hopeful for the next 100 years.

"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 © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574091484634.jpeg" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancherKansas Farm Bureau members just finished celebrating our first 100 years. I say the first 100 years because one thing that became very clear to me this year was KFB is very much a healthy and vibrant organization. We have weathered tough times, grown as an operation and become the biggest and most influential general farm organization in the state.﻿This year we crafted a strategic plan to serve as a road map for the near future of KFB. This document was created with input from all 105 county Farm Bureaus and many, many hours of volunteer time from a task force. It is a living document meant to help keep KFB the thriving, growing organization of which we all can be proud.One of the things brought to light in the strategic plan process is the need for our organization to be more inclusive and continue to be the umbrella farm group where all producers can find a home. As we continue to face challenges in agriculture, more and more of us look for ideas that can only be described as out of the box. The list of niche or small agriculture ventures is long and varied, but Kansas Farm Bureau needs to be the place that all are welcomed and the voice that speaks for everyone.We do not want to forget our traditional agriculture roots. Those of us who raise conventional crops and livestock will continue to be the backbone of the organization. However, we must also welcome others to the table. I don’t think I need to remind anyone that we are less than 2 percent of the population — that’s all of us. We need to make sure we have a united voice.Another main point of the strategic plan is we must find a way to strengthen our county Farm Bureaus. Just like the rest of agriculture, some of our counties have fallen on tough times and have seen membership dwindle as our rural population shrinks. We must make sure the very essence of our grassroots, the county Farm Bureaus, continues to be the foundation of the organization.Without input from every corner of the state, we will not be a whole organization, and it will be hard to represent the needs of all farmers and ranchers. What will it take to strengthen and help support each county? I would guess there are 105 different answers, and we must think outside the box. Each county Farm Bureau is a dynamic entity unto itself. There is no cookie-cutter answer.These are only two of the main points in the strategic plan. Each was crafted after a great deal of input and even more thought and discussion. As proud as I am to be a member of Kansas Farm Bureau and the rich history of the past 100 years, I am even more excited and hopeful for the next 100 years."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 © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: A voice for all of agriculture

CONCORDIA -- Cloud County Community College will be offering adult education and GED classes in January in Concordia, Junction City, and Clay Center.

The Adult Education program at CCCC offers an adult learning atmosphere to gain skills necessary for success at home and in the workplace. The classes are open to individuals 16 and older who are not enrolled in school. Basic skills and diploma preparation classes are offered afternoons and evenings in Concordia; mornings, afternoons, and evenings in Junction City; and afternoons in Clay Center to accommodate working adults’ schedules. Classes are small with both classroom and computer instruction.

Those who attend can also improve on basic skills in everyday reading, math and English, as well as learn employability skills while earning WorkReady Credentials. Computer skills are also a part of the courses, where students can gain basic Microsoft Word and Internet skills, and also earn technology certificates.

GED test preparation instruction is also available at all three locations. The centers are located at CCCC’s Concordia campus, at the Geary County campus in Junction City and at Dreams Unlimited in Clay Center.All students must attend orientation before enrolling in classes. Orientation for new students at Concordia is Jan. 9 and 10, and they must register by Jan. 8. For students at Junction City, orientation is Jan. 7 and 8. In Clay Center, students must register by Jan. 7, and orientation is Jan. 8 and 9. The first day classes at all three locations is Jan. 13.

All classes are limited in size. For more information or to register for orientation in Concordia or Junction City, contact Debbie Kearn, ABE/GED Director, Cloud County Community College at (785) 243-1435, ext. 335 or (800) 729-5101, ext. 335. For information in the Clay Center area, call Kathy Dawson, Dreams Unlimited coordinator at (785) 632-2588.

CONCORDIA -- Cloud County Community College will be offering adult education and GED classes in January in Concordia, Junction City, and Clay Center.The Adult Education program at CCCC offers an adult learning atmosphere to gain skills necessary for success at home and in the workplace. The classes are open to individuals 16 and older who are not enrolled in school. Basic skills and diploma preparation classes are offered afternoons and evenings in Concordia; mornings, afternoons, and evenings in Junction City; and afternoons in Clay Center to accommodate working adults’ schedules. Classes are small with both classroom and computer instruction.Those who attend can also improve on basic skills in everyday reading, math and English, as well as learn employability skills while earning WorkReady Credentials. Computer skills are also a part of the courses, where students can gain basic Microsoft Word and Internet skills, and also earn technology certificates.GED test preparation instruction is also available at all three locations. The centers are located at CCCC’s Concordia campus, at the Geary County campus in Junction City and at Dreams Unlimited in Clay Center.All students must attend orientation before enrolling in classes. Orientation for new students at Concordia is Jan. 9 and 10, and they must register by Jan. 8. For students at Junction City, orientation is Jan. 7 and 8. In Clay Center, students must register by Jan. 7, and orientation is Jan. 8 and 9. The first day classes at all three locations is Jan. 13.All classes are limited in size. For more information or to register for orientation in Concordia or Junction City, contact Debbie Kearn, ABE/GED Director, Cloud County Community College at (785) 243-1435, ext. 335 or (800) 729-5101, ext. 335. For information in the Clay Center area, call Kathy Dawson, Dreams Unlimited coordinator at (785) 632-2588.

CCCC offering adult education, GED classes

ABILENE -- Cooper Holloway personifies the spirit of the season.

The Abilene youngster continues to help comfort children at medical facilities with his Cooper’s Care Cases. Cooper recently donated another 225 cases (draw-string bags) to Memorial Hospital in Abilene. They will be given to children who are patients in the emergency department, laboratory, radiology, inpatient unit, and Heartland Health Care Clinic.

Why is Cooper so dedicated to making the bags? In May of 2013, he was diagnosed with a Common Variable Immune Disease which makes it hard for his body to fight off illness. Cooper, however, is strong and draws part of his strength from helping and encouraging other children.

Once Cooper was diagnosed at approximately age 4, he had to start weekly plasma transfusions with T and B cells, according to information from Memorial Health Systems (MHS). Because of the nature of his disease, Cooper had to take a bag of his own toys and books with him to the hospital in Kansas City. One day while at the hospital, Cooper told his mother, Dawn, that he wished all children in the hospital had their own bag of things.

Thus, the idea for Cooper's Care Cases began. 

Initally, he distributed the hand-made cloth drawstring bags to children in the Kansas City hospital in which he spent so much time. In 2015, he began making and donating bags to Abilene's Memorial Hospital to help local children as well.

Now Cooper has help from family and friends creating and filling the bags, which contain a notebook for writing and coloring, a storybook, small notepads, crayons, a pen, pencils, stickers, a note from Cooper that reads "stay strong like Cooper," and also included now is a small toy and book donated by McDonald's of Abilene. 

Items are needed for Cooper to continue creating his cases. If you would be interested in donating items to Cooper's project, please contact Dawn at 785-787-0287.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576636395766.jpeg" alt="Holding some of Cooper's Cases are Cooper, right, and Michelle McClanahan, Memorial Health System director of volunteer services. Photo courtesy Memorial Health System" />
 <figcaption>Holding some of Cooper's Cases are Cooper, right, and Michelle McClanahan, Memorial Health System director of volunteer services. Photo courtesy Memorial Health System</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE -- Cooper Holloway personifies the spirit of the season.The Abilene youngster continues to help comfort children at medical facilities with his Cooper’s Care Cases. Cooper recently donated another 225 cases (draw-string bags) to Memorial Hospital in Abilene. They will be given to children who are patients in the emergency department, laboratory, radiology, inpatient unit, and Heartland Health Care Clinic.Why is Cooper so dedicated to making the bags? In May of 2013, he was diagnosed with a Common Variable Immune Disease which makes it hard for his body to fight off illness. Cooper, however, is strong and draws part of his strength from helping and encouraging other children.Once Cooper was diagnosed at approximately age 4, he had to start weekly plasma transfusions with T and B cells, according to information from Memorial Health Systems (MHS). Because of the nature of his disease, Cooper had to take a bag of his own toys and books with him to the hospital in Kansas City. One day while at the hospital, Cooper told his mother, Dawn, that he wished all children in the hospital had their own bag of things.Thus, the idea for Cooper's Care Cases began. Initally, he distributed the hand-made cloth drawstring bags to children in the Kansas City hospital in which he spent so much time. In 2015, he began making and donating bags to Abilene's Memorial Hospital to help local children as well.Now Cooper has help from family and friends creating and filling the bags, which contain a notebook for writing and coloring, a storybook, small notepads, crayons, a pen, pencils, stickers, a note from Cooper that reads "stay strong like Cooper," and also included now is a small toy and book donated by McDonald's of Abilene. Items are needed for Cooper to continue creating his cases. If you would be interested in donating items to Cooper's project, please contact Dawn at 785-787-0287.

Abilene boy continues to comfort other children

Check out this great deal from Eagle Radio's Christmas Cyber Sale:

This certificate entitles the winning bidder to a four hour event space rental at Sand Springs Venue in Abilene, a $600 retail value.

Meetings, family reunions, retirement parties, birthdays -- and any other special occasion -- Sand Springs Venue provides the perfect setting indoors or out. Tables, chairs and many other amenities provided.&nbsp;See Sand Springs Venue on Facebook.

Eagle Radio's Christmas Cyber Sale has items to bid on and items that you can buy immediately. All items are from local and area businesses, so when you bid or buy, you’re helping the local and area economy.&nbsp; 

So how do you bid or buy? Just&nbsp;<a href="https://cyberxmas19.givesmart.com/" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;to get started.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Christmas Cyber Sale ends at midnight on Dec. 30, so get to biding and buying today!

Christmas image courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.canstockphoto.com/" target="_blank">© Can Stock Photo / Irisangel</a>

Check out this great deal from Eagle Radio's Christmas Cyber Sale:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576675318652.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This certificate entitles the winning bidder to a four hour event space rental at Sand Springs Venue in Abilene, a $600 retail value.Meetings, family reunions, retirement parties, birthdays -- and any other special occasion -- Sand Springs Venue provides the perfect setting indoors or out. Tables, chairs and many other amenities provided.&nbsp;See Sand Springs Venue on Facebook.Eagle Radio's Christmas Cyber Sale has items to bid on and items that you can buy immediately. All items are from local and area businesses, so when you bid or buy, you’re helping the local and area economy.&nbsp; So how do you bid or buy? Just&nbsp;<a href="https://cyberxmas19.givesmart.com/" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;to get started.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Christmas Cyber Sale ends at midnight on Dec. 30, so get to biding and buying today!Christmas image courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.canstockphoto.com/" target="_blank">© Can Stock Photo / Irisangel</a>

Christmas Cyber Sale: Sand Springs half day venue rental

Today is Wednesday, Dec. 18, the 352nd day of 2019. There are 13 days left in the year.

On Dec. 18, 2000, the Electoral College cast its ballots, with President-elect George W. Bush receiving the expected 271; Al Gore, however, received 266, one fewer than expected, because of a District of Columbia Democrat who'd left her ballot blank to protest the district's lack of representation in Congress.

In 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

In 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, was declared in effect by Secretary of State William H. Seward.

In 1916, during World War I, the 10-month Battle of Verdun ended with French troops succeeding in repulsing a major German offensive.

In 1917, Congress passed the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibiting "the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors" and sent it to the states for ratification.

In 1940, Adolf Hitler signed a secret directive ordering preparations for a Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union. (Operation Barbarossa was launched in June 1941.)

In 1944, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the government's wartime evacuation of people of Japanese descent from the West Coast while at the same time ruling that "concededly loyal" Americans of Japanese ancestry could not continue to be detained.

In 1956, Japan was admitted to the United Nations.

In 1957, the Shippingport Atomic Power Station in Pennsylvania, the first nuclear facility to generate electricity in the United States, went on line. (It was taken out of service in 1982.)

In 1969, Britain's House of Lords joined the House of Commons in making permanent a 1965 ban on the death penalty for murder.

In 1972, the United States began heavy bombing of North Vietnamese targets during the Vietnam War. (The bombardment ended 11 days later.)

In 1998, the House debated articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton. South Carolina carried out the nation's 500th execution since capital punishment resumed in 1977.

In 2003, two federal appeals courts ruled the U.S. military could not indefinitely hold prisoners without access to lawyers or American courts.

Ten years ago: The infamous iron sign bearing the Nazis' cynical slogan "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Sets You Free) that spanned the main entrance to the former Auschwitz death camp in Poland was stolen. (The sign was later recovered; six suspects in the theft were later jailed.) Jon and Kate Gosselin officially divorced after 10 years of marriage, eight children and a year of tabloid headlines.

Five years ago: Sternly warning the West it could not defang the metaphorical Russian bear, President Vladimir Putin promised to shore up the plummeting ruble and revive the economy within two years. Mandy Rice-Davies, 70, a key figure in the "Profumo Scandal" that rocked Cold War Britain, died in London. Actress Virna Lisi, 78, died in Rome. "The Colbert Report" came to an end after nine years on Comedy Central (host Stephen Colbert went on to become the host of CBS' "Late Show.")

One year ago: President Donald Trump's charitable foundation reached a deal with New York's attorney general for the foundation to go out of business, even as Trump continued to fight allegations that he misused the foundation's assets. (In November 2019, a New York state judge ordered Trump to pay $2 million to an array of charities as a fine for misusing his foundation to further his political and business interests.) The Trump administration banned bump stocks, the firearm attachments that allowed semi-automatic weapons to fire like machine guns, and gave gun owners until late March to turn in or destroy the devices. The president authorized the Defense Department to create a new Space Command, an effort to better organize and advance the military's operations in space. Arizona's governor appointed U.S. Rep. Martha McSally to replace Sen. Jon Kyl in the seat that had belonged to the late John McCain, sending the GOP congresswoman back to Washington just a month after she lost a tight race for the state's other U.S. Senate seat.

Today's Birthdays: Actress Cicely Tyson is 95. Former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark is 92. Actor Roger Mosley is 81. Rock singer-musician Keith Richards is 76. Writer-director Alan Rudolph is 76. Movie producer-director Steven Spielberg is 73. Blues artist Rod Piazza is 72. Movie director Gillian Armstrong is 69. Movie reviewer Leonard Maltin is 69. Rock musician Elliot Easton is 66. Actor Ray Liotta is 65. Comedian Ron White is 63. R&amp;B singer Angie Stone is 58. Actor Brad Pitt is 56. Professional wrestler-turned-actor "Stone Cold" Steve Austin is 55. Actor Shawn Christian is 54. Actress Rachel Griffiths is 51. Singer Alejandro Sanz is 51. Actor Casper Van Dien is 51. Country/rap singer Cowboy Troy is 49. Rapper DMX is 49. International Tennis Hall of Famer Arantxa Sanchez Vicario is 48. DJ Lethal (Limp Bizkit) is 47. Pop singer Sia is 44. Country singer Randy Houser is 43. Actor Josh Dallas is 41. Actress Katie Holmes is 41. Actor Ravi Patel is 41. Singer Christina Aguilera is 39. Christian rock musician Dave Luetkenhoelter (Kutless) is 37. Actress Ashley Benson is 30. NHL defenseman Victor Hedman is 29. Actress-singer Bridgit Mendler is 27. Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is 22. Electro-pop singer Billie Eilish is 18. Actress Isabella Cramp is 15.

Thought for Today: "Whoever wants to be a judge of human nature should study people's excuses." — Christian Friedrich Hebbel, German poet and dramatist (1813-1863).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Wednesday, Dec. 18, the 352nd day of 2019. There are 13 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Dec. 18, 2000, the Electoral College cast its ballots, with President-elect George W. Bush receiving the expected 271; Al Gore, however, received 266, one fewer than expected, because of a District of Columbia Democrat who'd left her ballot blank to protest the district's lack of representation in Congress.On this date:In 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.In 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, was declared in effect by Secretary of State William H. Seward.In 1916, during World War I, the 10-month Battle of Verdun ended with French troops succeeding in repulsing a major German offensive.In 1917, Congress passed the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibiting "the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors" and sent it to the states for ratification.In 1940, Adolf Hitler signed a secret directive ordering preparations for a Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union. (Operation Barbarossa was launched in June 1941.)In 1944, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the government's wartime evacuation of people of Japanese descent from the West Coast while at the same time ruling that "concededly loyal" Americans of Japanese ancestry could not continue to be detained.In 1956, Japan was admitted to the United Nations.In 1957, the Shippingport Atomic Power Station in Pennsylvania, the first nuclear facility to generate electricity in the United States, went on line. (It was taken out of service in 1982.)In 1969, Britain's House of Lords joined the House of Commons in making permanent a 1965 ban on the death penalty for murder.In 1972, the United States began heavy bombing of North Vietnamese targets during the Vietnam War. (The bombardment ended 11 days later.)In 1998, the House debated articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton. South Carolina carried out the nation's 500th execution since capital punishment resumed in 1977.In 2003, two federal appeals courts ruled the U.S. military could not indefinitely hold prisoners without access to lawyers or American courts.Ten years ago: The infamous iron sign bearing the Nazis' cynical slogan "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Sets You Free) that spanned the main entrance to the former Auschwitz death camp in Poland was stolen. (The sign was later recovered; six suspects in the theft were later jailed.) Jon and Kate Gosselin officially divorced after 10 years of marriage, eight children and a year of tabloid headlines.Five years ago: Sternly warning the West it could not defang the metaphorical Russian bear, President Vladimir Putin promised to shore up the plummeting ruble and revive the economy within two years. Mandy Rice-Davies, 70, a key figure in the "Profumo Scandal" that rocked Cold War Britain, died in London. Actress Virna Lisi, 78, died in Rome. "The Colbert Report" came to an end after nine years on Comedy Central (host Stephen Colbert went on to become the host of CBS' "Late Show.")One year ago: President Donald Trump's charitable foundation reached a deal with New York's attorney general for the foundation to go out of business, even as Trump continued to fight allegations that he misused the foundation's assets. (In November 2019, a New York state judge ordered Trump to pay $2 million to an array of charities as a fine for misusing his foundation to further his political and business interests.) The Trump administration banned bump stocks, the firearm attachments that allowed semi-automatic weapons to fire like machine guns, and gave gun owners until late March to turn in or destroy the devices. The president authorized the Defense Department to create a new Space Command, an effort to better organize and advance the military's operations in space. Arizona's governor appointed U.S. Rep. Martha McSally to replace Sen. Jon Kyl in the seat that had belonged to the late John McCain, sending the GOP congresswoman back to Washington just a month after she lost a tight race for the state's other U.S. Senate seat.Today's Birthdays: Actress Cicely Tyson is 95. Former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark is 92. Actor Roger Mosley is 81. Rock singer-musician Keith Richards is 76. Writer-director Alan Rudolph is 76. Movie producer-director Steven Spielberg is 73. Blues artist Rod Piazza is 72. Movie director Gillian Armstrong is 69. Movie reviewer Leonard Maltin is 69. Rock musician Elliot Easton is 66. Actor Ray Liotta is 65. Comedian Ron White is 63. R&amp;B singer Angie Stone is 58. Actor Brad Pitt is 56. Professional wrestler-turned-actor "Stone Cold" Steve Austin is 55. Actor Shawn Christian is 54. Actress Rachel Griffiths is 51. Singer Alejandro Sanz is 51. Actor Casper Van Dien is 51. Country/rap singer Cowboy Troy is 49. Rapper DMX is 49. International Tennis Hall of Famer Arantxa Sanchez Vicario is 48. DJ Lethal (Limp Bizkit) is 47. Pop singer Sia is 44. Country singer Randy Houser is 43. Actor Josh Dallas is 41. Actress Katie Holmes is 41. Actor Ravi Patel is 41. Singer Christina Aguilera is 39. Christian rock musician Dave Luetkenhoelter (Kutless) is 37. Actress Ashley Benson is 30. NHL defenseman Victor Hedman is 29. Actress-singer Bridgit Mendler is 27. Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is 22. Electro-pop singer Billie Eilish is 18. Actress Isabella Cramp is 15.Thought for Today: "Whoever wants to be a judge of human nature should study people's excuses." — Christian Friedrich Hebbel, German poet and dramatist (1813-1863).Copyright 2019, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Dec. 18

Congratulations to John Wagner of Gypsum, the Week 15 winner in our Gridiron Glory contest! John wins a pair of tickets and a parking pass for the Chiefs-Chargers game in Arrowhead on Dec. 29.

The season is almost over, but with our great weekly prizes, you still have time to win! This week's prize is a&nbsp;pair of tickets to The Office! A Musical Parody at The Stiefel Theatre.

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dcac5e5897d147ad4bb0ba5#/registration/login" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to sign up and play Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/" target="_blank">SalinaPost.com</a>.

Submit your weekly picks for great prizes including trips to Arrowhead, merchandise, and even $1,000 cash. We’ll have local weekly winners. You don’t have to play every week, but if you do, you could also win a trip to Hawaii!

Win big all season long with Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/" target="_blank">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576617816690.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to John Wagner of Gypsum, the Week 15 winner in our Gridiron Glory contest! John wins a pair of tickets and a parking pass for the Chiefs-Chargers game in Arrowhead on Dec. 29.The season is almost over, but with our great weekly prizes, you still have time to win! This week's prize is a&nbsp;pair of tickets to The Office! A Musical Parody at The Stiefel Theatre.<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5dcac5e5897d147ad4bb0ba5#/registration/login" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to sign up and play Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/" target="_blank">SalinaPost.com</a>.Submit your weekly picks for great prizes including trips to Arrowhead, merchandise, and even $1,000 cash. We’ll have local weekly winners. You don’t have to play every week, but if you do, you could also win a trip to Hawaii!Win big all season long with Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/" target="_blank">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gridiron Glory: Congrats John Wagner!



HAYS – Teams from Fort Hays State University brought home first-place awards in four of the seven competitions at the recent Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association conference and competition in Pittsburg at Pittsburg State University’s Technology Center.

Fort Hays State placed first in Live Manufacturing, Transportation, Technology, and Robotics.

Tiger TEECA teams from the Department of Applied Technology also brought home five second-place and two third-place finishes. Of the seven competitions, FHSU placed in six and was shut out only in the Problem Solving competition.

In Robotics, university teams took all three top spots. In three other competitions, FHSU placed first and second – Transportation, Technology Challenge and Robotics. In Teaching Lesson, FHSU took second and third.

“Dedicated to their department, profession, and careers, these individuals showcased their skillsets and talents amassing six podium finishes with four first-place finishes,” said Eric Deneault, associate professor and team sponsor.

“A dominant regional performance is a testament to their desire and determination to achieve success at the highest level,” he said. “These students have earned the right to be called champions!”

Fort Hays State teams will next complete at the International Technology and Engoineering Educators Association conference in Baltimore from March 11 to March 14, 2020.

Live Manufacturing – First place

This year’s competition required students to design, engineer, manufacture and present a desktop organizer. Each team had to draft the part files as well as the jigs and fixtures used in their production run. They were given four hours from start to finish to develop the most efficient assembly line production run with the highest overall part quality.

BENTON:&nbsp;Casey Shinkle, junior;

GREAT BEND:&nbsp;Jordan Boone, sophomore;

HAYS:&nbsp;Michael Dick, sophomore, and Jerry Hoffman, senior;

MANHATTAN:&nbsp;Eric Prockish, junior;

MINNEAPOLIS:&nbsp;Dason Sweat, junior;

RUSSELL:&nbsp;Nathan Bitter, freshman.

Live Communications – Second place

The Live Communication challenge is to create a 90-second multimedia video program that introduces student design teams in a TEE classroom to principles and practices that will assist them in learning to become dynamic, high functioning teams.

Students had to produce an industry-quality, informative video.

AURORA, Colo. (80013):&nbsp;Benjamin Windom, junior;

GARDEN CITY:&nbsp;Alex Vazquez-Visoso, junior;

HAYS:&nbsp;Mark Schuckman, sophomore;

SALINA:&nbsp;Edgar Silvestre, freshman;

Transportation – First and second place

In the Transportation Challenge, the task is to design, engineer and construct a propulsion driven airplane. The plane must take off on its own, fly or glide in a circle and land safely. &nbsp;Primary goal was to stay in flight for the longest duration possible.

ALMA, Neb.:&nbsp;Jesus Felix, junior;

BENTLEY:&nbsp;Bryant Odendahl, freshman;

CAWKER CITY:&nbsp;Caleb Hake, freshman;

HALSTEAD:&nbsp;Andrew Blaylock, sophomore;

NATOMA:&nbsp;Dylan Pruter, junior;

VALLEY CENTER:&nbsp;Owen Casey, freshman.

Pittsburg State took all three top spots in this challenge, which involved building a “Rube Goldberg” mechanism that would launch a ball up a skee ball ramp into the target zone.

Technology Challenge – First and second place

The Technology challenge is a quiz bowl style event.

HAYS:&nbsp;Derek Steede, special student (a full-time but not degree-seeking student);

ULYSSES:&nbsp;Bryan Garcia, sophomore;

and Bitter, Blaylock, Hoffman, Schuckman and Shinkle.

Teaching Lesson – Second and third place

This year’s teaching lesson topic was “The Impacts of Technology on the Environment.” FHSU was represented by Matthew Freel,&nbsp;Minneapolis&nbsp;sophomore, and Zach Peach,&nbsp;La Crosse&nbsp;sophomore.

Robotics Challenge – First, second and third place

The 2019 robotics competition was designing, building and programming a robot that could place different sized rings over poles of differing heights, scoring points on either side of the arena by crossing over a teeter-totter. Each pole could then be capped with a ball by the scoring team or the opponent to prevent further scoring during the round.

FHSU dominated this event placing three teams on the podium. This year was unique in that for the first time in school history students from the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science and the Academy of Mathematics and Science programs competed with students from the Department of Applied Technology.

Fort Hays State’s representatives on the three teams were:

ANSHAN, China:&nbsp;Yuxuan Ma, AMS student;

DAEGU, South Korea:&nbsp;Hwuiyun “Jacob” Park, AMS student;

GALVA:&nbsp;Vincent Evans, senior;

GWANGJU, South Korea:&nbsp;Hanbit Kim, AMS student;

RANSOM:&nbsp;Jordan Sargent, senior;

RUSSELL:&nbsp;Micah Nuss, sophomore;

SALINA:&nbsp;Aum Patel, KAMS student;

SEOUL, South Korea:&nbsp;Jaeyol Lee, AMS student;

SILVER LAKE:&nbsp;Kayla Brannick, KAMS student;

ST. FRANCIS:&nbsp;Brady Schoenrogge, KAMS student;

SUPERIOR, Neb.:&nbsp;Tage Rothchild, sophomore;

YONGIN, South Korea:&nbsp;Hyunjun “Brian” Chang, AMS student; and Freel.

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

HAYS – Teams from Fort Hays State University brought home first-place awards in four of the seven competitions at the recent Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association conference and competition in Pittsburg at Pittsburg State University’s Technology Center.Fort Hays State placed first in Live Manufacturing, Transportation, Technology, and Robotics.Tiger TEECA teams from the Department of Applied Technology also brought home five second-place and two third-place finishes. Of the seven competitions, FHSU placed in six and was shut out only in the Problem Solving competition.In Robotics, university teams took all three top spots. In three other competitions, FHSU placed first and second – Transportation, Technology Challenge and Robotics. In Teaching Lesson, FHSU took second and third.“Dedicated to their department, profession, and careers, these individuals showcased their skillsets and talents amassing six podium finishes with four first-place finishes,” said Eric Deneault, associate professor and team sponsor.“A dominant regional performance is a testament to their desire and determination to achieve success at the highest level,” he said. “These students have earned the right to be called champions!”Fort Hays State teams will next complete at the International Technology and Engoineering Educators Association conference in Baltimore from March 11 to March 14, 2020.The events and competitors:Live Manufacturing – First placeThis year’s competition required students to design, engineer, manufacture and present a desktop organizer. Each team had to draft the part files as well as the jigs and fixtures used in their production run. They were given four hours from start to finish to develop the most efficient assembly line production run with the highest overall part quality.The Fort Hays State team was:BENTON:&nbsp;Casey Shinkle, junior;GREAT BEND:&nbsp;Jordan Boone, sophomore;HAYS:&nbsp;Michael Dick, sophomore, and Jerry Hoffman, senior;MANHATTAN:&nbsp;Eric Prockish, junior;MINNEAPOLIS:&nbsp;Dason Sweat, junior;RUSSELL:&nbsp;Nathan Bitter, freshman.Live Communications – Second placeThe Live Communication challenge is to create a 90-second multimedia video program that introduces student design teams in a TEE classroom to principles and practices that will assist them in learning to become dynamic, high functioning teams.Students had to produce an industry-quality, informative video.The FHSU team was:AURORA, Colo. (80013):&nbsp;Benjamin Windom, junior;GARDEN CITY:&nbsp;Alex Vazquez-Visoso, junior;HAYS:&nbsp;Mark Schuckman, sophomore;SALINA:&nbsp;Edgar Silvestre, freshman;and Dick and Hoffman.Transportation – First and second placeIn the Transportation Challenge, the task is to design, engineer and construct a propulsion driven airplane. The plane must take off on its own, fly or glide in a circle and land safely. &nbsp;Primary goal was to stay in flight for the longest duration possible.Two FHSU teams competed in this event:ALMA, Neb.:&nbsp;Jesus Felix, junior;BENTLEY:&nbsp;Bryant Odendahl, freshman;CAWKER CITY:&nbsp;Caleb Hake, freshman;HALSTEAD:&nbsp;Andrew Blaylock, sophomore;NATOMA:&nbsp;Dylan Pruter, junior;VALLEY CENTER:&nbsp;Owen Casey, freshman.Problem SolvingPittsburg State took all three top spots in this challenge, which involved building a “Rube Goldberg” mechanism that would launch a ball up a skee ball ramp into the target zone.Technology Challenge – First and second placeThe Technology challenge is a quiz bowl style event.FHSU competitors were:ALMA:&nbsp;Luke Barber, freshman;HAYS:&nbsp;Derek Steede, special student (a full-time but not degree-seeking student);ULYSSES:&nbsp;Bryan Garcia, sophomore;and Bitter, Blaylock, Hoffman, Schuckman and Shinkle.Teaching Lesson – Second and third placeThis year’s teaching lesson topic was “The Impacts of Technology on the Environment.” FHSU was represented by Matthew Freel,&nbsp;Minneapolis&nbsp;sophomore, and Zach Peach,&nbsp;La Crosse&nbsp;sophomore.Robotics Challenge – First, second and third placeThe 2019 robotics competition was designing, building and programming a robot that could place different sized rings over poles of differing heights, scoring points on either side of the arena by crossing over a teeter-totter. Each pole could then be capped with a ball by the scoring team or the opponent to prevent further scoring during the round.FHSU dominated this event placing three teams on the podium. This year was unique in that for the first time in school history students from the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science and the Academy of Mathematics and Science programs competed with students from the Department of Applied Technology.Fort Hays State’s representatives on the three teams were:ANSHAN, China:&nbsp;Yuxuan Ma, AMS student;DAEGU, South Korea:&nbsp;Hwuiyun “Jacob” Park, AMS student;GALVA:&nbsp;Vincent Evans, senior;GWANGJU, South Korea:&nbsp;Hanbit Kim, AMS student;RANSOM:&nbsp;Jordan Sargent, senior;RUSSELL:&nbsp;Micah Nuss, sophomore;SALINA:&nbsp;Aum Patel, KAMS student;SEOUL, South Korea:&nbsp;Jaeyol Lee, AMS student;SILVER LAKE:&nbsp;Kayla Brannick, KAMS student;ST. FRANCIS:&nbsp;Brady Schoenrogge, KAMS student;SUPERIOR, Neb.:&nbsp;Tage Rothchild, sophomore;YONGIN, South Korea:&nbsp;Hyunjun “Brian” Chang, AMS student; and Freel.--<a href="http://fhsu.edu">fhsu.edu</a>--

FHSU technology teams take 4 firsts at regional TEECA competition

Eagle Communications Inc., dba Eagle Radio, will have new leadership to open 2020 after naming Kurt David president and chief executive officer.

Current CEO Gary Shorman will continue as chairman of the Eagle board of directors. He also will take on expanded duties working with the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation.

David, who began his career with Eagle in 2006 and was most recently president and chief operating officer, has been serving as the transition officer for Mega Broadband since Sept. 1, helping finalize the sale of Eagle’s broadband assets to Mega.

“It’s exciting what we have ahead in 2020 for Eagle.&nbsp;At the heart of our vision is to create a better experience where we live, work and play,” David said. “That means building our communities and focusing on the relationships between our communities, the local businesses and the residents/citizens who are our listeners and viewers. Eagle has the ability to positively impact these relationships, and I am pleased to be working alongside our talented employee-owners.”

Shorman will oversee new initiatives for Eagle Radio, beginning with the launch of Eagle Creative.&nbsp;

“With the new decade comes new excitement and growth for Eagle Radio,” Shorman said. “New ideas, complimented with innovative leadership, will help our communities grow and prosper. I am excited to see all the great things that can happen as we build the future together.”

Eagle Creative will offer complete marketing solution for clients — a start-to-finish approach ranging from company branding, web and online solutions, advertising across all media platforms, and events.

Liby Waltemath will serve as agency director for Eagle Creative. Waltemath has been with Eagle since 2015, most recently serving as account executive and digital sales manager in St. Joseph, Mo.

“I am thrilled to be heading up our new collaboration, Eagle Creative,” she said.&nbsp; “I am excited to help Eagle move to a full-service agency model to better serve the ever-evolving needs of our clients."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Miles Ramsay will serve as creative director with Eagle Creative. Ramsay has been with Eagle for 12 years, most recently serving as production director and account executive in St. Joseph.

Eagle also has announced new leadership in its Manhattan/Junction City market.&nbsp;

Jason Schlitz has been hired as market manager in Junction City and Manhattan including radio stations Power Hits 97.5, Q Country 103.5, Q-Prime 92.7 and KJCK 1420 AM/107.9 FM.

Schlitz is a 34-year broadcast veteran and is currently the general sales manager for KAKE-TV in Wichita. In addition to an extensive career in television, newspaper and digital advertising, Schlitz has spent 20 years in radio and led the creation of 101.5 K-Rock during a 10-year tenure at Manhattan Broadcasting.

“This is an exciting time for&nbsp;me and my family,” Schlitz said.&nbsp;“My wife and I have always said that Manhattan is the one place we’d like to return to. We met here, were married here, bought our first house here, and our first daughter was born here. Returning to the Manhattan-Junction City area is like coming home.”

“Over the past several months we have conducted a nationwide search for the right person to lead our Manhattan-Junction City market,” Shorman said. “Jason has the right tools, the right experience, and he believes in the bright future of these communities.”

In this new role, Schlitz will oversee the&nbsp;programming, sales, community involvement and operation efforts of Eagle’s assets across the market.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576602580662.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Communications Inc., dba Eagle Radio, will have new leadership to open 2020 after naming Kurt David president and chief executive officer.Current CEO Gary Shorman will continue as chairman of the Eagle board of directors. He also will take on expanded duties working with the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation.David, who began his career with Eagle in 2006 and was most recently president and chief operating officer, has been serving as the transition officer for Mega Broadband since Sept. 1, helping finalize the sale of Eagle’s broadband assets to Mega.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576603329237.png" alt="Eagle's Kurt David, left, and Gary Shorman" />
 <figcaption>Eagle's Kurt David, left, and Gary Shorman</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s exciting what we have ahead in 2020 for Eagle.&nbsp;At the heart of our vision is to create a better experience where we live, work and play,” David said. “That means building our communities and focusing on the relationships between our communities, the local businesses and the residents/citizens who are our listeners and viewers. Eagle has the ability to positively impact these relationships, and I am pleased to be working alongside our talented employee-owners.”Shorman will oversee new initiatives for Eagle Radio, beginning with the launch of Eagle Creative.&nbsp;“With the new decade comes new excitement and growth for Eagle Radio,” Shorman said. “New ideas, complimented with innovative leadership, will help our communities grow and prosper. I am excited to see all the great things that can happen as we build the future together.”Eagle Creative will offer complete marketing solution for clients — a start-to-finish approach ranging from company branding, web and online solutions, advertising across all media platforms, and events.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576605636142.png" alt="Liby Waltemath, left, and Miles Ramsay of Eagle Creative" />
 <figcaption>Liby Waltemath, left, and Miles Ramsay of Eagle Creative</figcaption>
 </figure>Liby Waltemath will serve as agency director for Eagle Creative. Waltemath has been with Eagle since 2015, most recently serving as account executive and digital sales manager in St. Joseph, Mo.“I am thrilled to be heading up our new collaboration, Eagle Creative,” she said.&nbsp; “I am excited to help Eagle move to a full-service agency model to better serve the ever-evolving needs of our clients."&nbsp;&nbsp;Miles Ramsay will serve as creative director with Eagle Creative. Ramsay has been with Eagle for 12 years, most recently serving as production director and account executive in St. Joseph.Eagle also has announced new leadership in its Manhattan/Junction City market.&nbsp;Jason Schlitz has been hired as market manager in Junction City and Manhattan including radio stations Power Hits 97.5, Q Country 103.5, Q-Prime 92.7 and KJCK 1420 AM/107.9 FM.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576605243206.jpeg" alt="Jason Schlitz" />
 <figcaption>Jason Schlitz</figcaption>
 </figure>Schlitz is a 34-year broadcast veteran and is currently the general sales manager for KAKE-TV in Wichita. In addition to an extensive career in television, newspaper and digital advertising, Schlitz has spent 20 years in radio and led the creation of 101.5 K-Rock during a 10-year tenure at Manhattan Broadcasting.“This is an exciting time for&nbsp;me and my family,” Schlitz said.&nbsp;“My wife and I have always said that Manhattan is the one place we’d like to return to. We met here, were married here, bought our first house here, and our first daughter was born here. Returning to the Manhattan-Junction City area is like coming home.”“Over the past several months we have conducted a nationwide search for the right person to lead our Manhattan-Junction City market,” Shorman said. “Jason has the right tools, the right experience, and he believes in the bright future of these communities.”In this new role, Schlitz will oversee the&nbsp;programming, sales, community involvement and operation efforts of Eagle’s assets across the market.Founded in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with over 150 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online solutions, web development, video production, and creative services. Eagle is the parent company of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>. For more, visit <a href="https://eagleradio.net/">eagleradio.net</a>.

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