As of 5 p.m. today, Saline County has not had any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, according to today's update from the county. 

When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.

The information from the county noted that the COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly changing situation.

"Our local government leaders are working hard and are making difficult decisions as it relates to the best interests of the health and safety of our citizens and employees," the county noted.

As of 5 p.m. today, Saline County has not had any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, according to today's update from the county. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.The information from the county noted that the COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly changing situation."Our local government leaders are working hard and are making difficult decisions as it relates to the best interests of the health and safety of our citizens and employees," the county noted.

Saline County: No confirmed COVID-19 cases yet

While we've had a bit of moisture in our area, it has been a wet few days in southeast Kansas.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, the three day total for southeast Kansas is up to approximately 1.5 inches in some places. Much less rainfall has fallen in central and western Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584557981807.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While we've had a bit of moisture in our area, it has been a wet few days in southeast Kansas.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, the three day total for southeast Kansas is up to approximately 1.5 inches in some places. Much less rainfall has fallen in central and western Kansas.

While it is damp here, it's soggy in southeast Kansas

Until further notice, Salina Animal Services will suspend the public spay/neuter program on Thursday to align with the following:

• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.

• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

If you have questions or concerns, call Salina Animal Services at 785-826-6535.

Until further notice, Salina Animal Services will suspend the public spay/neuter program on Thursday to align with the following:• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.If you have questions or concerns, call Salina Animal Services at 785-826-6535.

Salina Animal Services suspends spay and neuter program 

Kansas Wesleyan has announced that it will conduct classes entirely online for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year. The university will, however, remain open with all student services available.

KWU had previously announced a shift to online courses March 12, with the intent of evaluating on a week to week basis. The rapidly changing climate surrounding COVID-19 prompted the additional decision, in order to provide clarity to students.

In an effort to promote engagement and fellowship among KWU students, who are now located throughout the country, the university announced several initiatives. The school’s first esports intramural program is scheduled to begin the week of March 23, campus ministry has new, virtual opportunities in the works, and the university’s social media has promoted a hashtag, #KWUHappenings, to allow students to hold discussions on various platforms.

“Our top priority has always been our students,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, President of KWU. “By announcing that we are moving online for the rest of the semester, we give them clarity in the midst of this uncertain time. By keeping our student services available, including the residence halls, we take care of our students who are in Salina as well. The comradery between students is a critical part of the collegiate experience, and while we cannot replicate that virtually, we hope our initiatives provide a small portion of that experience.”

All student events have been cancelled for the remainder of the semester. April’s Spring Alumni, Family &amp; Community Weekend—and all the events surrounding it—has been cancelled as well.

The university has established a web site providing the latest information on KWU’s response to the coronavirus at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.kwu.edu/coronavirus</a>. A 24-hour hotline has also been created for those seeking additional information. The hotline is staffed 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and a voicemail can be left after hours. The hotline number is 785-833-4515.

Kansas Wesleyan has announced that it will conduct classes entirely online for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year. The university will, however, remain open with all student services available.KWU had previously announced a shift to online courses March 12, with the intent of evaluating on a week to week basis. The rapidly changing climate surrounding COVID-19 prompted the additional decision, in order to provide clarity to students.In an effort to promote engagement and fellowship among KWU students, who are now located throughout the country, the university announced several initiatives. The school’s first esports intramural program is scheduled to begin the week of March 23, campus ministry has new, virtual opportunities in the works, and the university’s social media has promoted a hashtag, #KWUHappenings, to allow students to hold discussions on various platforms.“Our top priority has always been our students,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, President of KWU. “By announcing that we are moving online for the rest of the semester, we give them clarity in the midst of this uncertain time. By keeping our student services available, including the residence halls, we take care of our students who are in Salina as well. The comradery between students is a critical part of the collegiate experience, and while we cannot replicate that virtually, we hope our initiatives provide a small portion of that experience.”All student events have been cancelled for the remainder of the semester. April’s Spring Alumni, Family &amp; Community Weekend—and all the events surrounding it—has been cancelled as well.The university has established a web site providing the latest information on KWU’s response to the coronavirus at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.kwu.edu/coronavirus</a>. A 24-hour hotline has also been created for those seeking additional information. The hotline is staffed 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and a voicemail can be left after hours. The hotline number is 785-833-4515.

KWU: Online only classes for rest of semester

Following all of the guidance that has been set forth
regarding social gatherings, Saline County has moved the scheduled town hall meeting concerning the Saline County Jail project to a virtual webinar.&nbsp; 

On Thursday at 6 p.m., those interested can
join the town hall by webinar or by phone to participate and continue the conversation on
this project.

<a href="https://webinar.ringcentral.com/j/1498572506">https://webinar.ringcentral.com/j/1498572506</a>

During the webinar the county plans to continue the conversation on the Saline County Jail
project and discuss in more detail the options and costs.&nbsp; Those participating will be able to interact virtually
by asking questions and hearing from members of the jail project team and county staff.

For questions, please contact the Saline County
Administrative Resource Center at 309-5810.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584553268286.jpeg" alt="The Saline County Jail. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Jail. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Following all of the guidance that has been set forth
regarding social gatherings, Saline County has moved the scheduled town hall meeting concerning the Saline County Jail project to a virtual webinar.&nbsp; On Thursday at 6 p.m., those interested can
join the town hall by webinar or by phone to participate and continue the conversation on
this project.Webinar information<a href="https://webinar.ringcentral.com/j/1498572506">https://webinar.ringcentral.com/j/1498572506</a>
Call in information(646) 357-3644 – or – (650) 242-4929Webinar ID number:&nbsp;
149-857-2506During the webinar the county plans to continue the conversation on the Saline County Jail
project and discuss in more detail the options and costs.&nbsp; Those participating will be able to interact virtually
by asking questions and hearing from members of the jail project team and county staff.For questions, please contact the Saline County
Administrative Resource Center at 309-5810.

Jail town hall moved to virtual webinar

Visitor restrictions for minors have been heightened at Salina Regional Health Center. 

No one under the age of 18 will be allowed into the hospital unless they are the patient or have a scheduled appointment or procedure.

Visitor access to the hospital’s main entrance has also changed to operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. All visitors should continue to use the hospital’s main lobby entrance off Santa Fe Avenue. All visitors will continue to be screened at the door prior to entrance.

Visit <a href="http://www.srhc.com">www.srhc.com</a>, or follow the hospital on Facebook to find out all the latest information.

Visitor restrictions for minors have been heightened at Salina Regional Health Center. No one under the age of 18 will be allowed into the hospital unless they are the patient or have a scheduled appointment or procedure.Visitor access to the hospital’s main entrance has also changed to operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. All visitors should continue to use the hospital’s main lobby entrance off Santa Fe Avenue. All visitors will continue to be screened at the door prior to entrance.Visit <a href="http://www.srhc.com">www.srhc.com</a>, or follow the hospital on Facebook to find out all the latest information.

SRHC: Visitor restrictions heightened

UPDATE 7 a.m. Thursday: The National Weather Service in Wichita has moved several counties in our area into a red flag warning. READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7360b7afae0f4d5f5d8417">Red flag warning issued for counties in our area</a>

A fire weather watch and wind advisories have been issued for counties in our area for Thursday.

A fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a fire weather watch for extreme grassland fire danger effective Thursday morning through evening for the following counties in our area.

Winds: Southwest 30 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.

Impacts: Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Additionally, NWS in Wichita has issued a wind advisory in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

Southwest winds of 30 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected.

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

NWS in Topeka has issued a wind advisory in effect from 1-6 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.

Southwest winds of 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected. Winds will steadily increase through the mid- to late-morning hours on Thursday, with the strongest winds during the mid-afternoon. Winds will decrease in the evening.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. The combination of the strong winds and relative humidity values around 30 to 35 percent will create a very high fire danger in the afternoon. Outdoor burning during this time is strongly discouraged.

Strong winds are also expected Thursday night into Friday. After a brief lull late Thursday afternoon or early evening, winds will switch to the northwest and increase to 20 to 30 mph with gusts over 40 mph. These winds will last through mid to late morning on Friday.

UPDATE 7 a.m. Thursday: The National Weather Service in Wichita has moved several counties in our area into a red flag warning. READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7360b7afae0f4d5f5d8417">Red flag warning issued for counties in our area</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584568230352.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A fire weather watch and wind advisories have been issued for counties in our area for Thursday.A fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur.The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a fire weather watch for extreme grassland fire danger effective Thursday morning through evening for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyWinds: Southwest 30 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.Relative Humidity: As low as 27 percent.Impacts: Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.Additionally, NWS in Wichita has issued a wind advisory in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountySouthwest winds of 30 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.NWS in Topeka has issued a wind advisory in effect from 1-6 p.m. Thursday for the following counties in our area.Dickinson CountyOttawa CountySouthwest winds of 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected. Winds will steadily increase through the mid- to late-morning hours on Thursday, with the strongest winds during the mid-afternoon. Winds will decrease in the evening.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. The combination of the strong winds and relative humidity values around 30 to 35 percent will create a very high fire danger in the afternoon. Outdoor burning during this time is strongly discouraged.Strong winds are also expected Thursday night into Friday. After a brief lull late Thursday afternoon or early evening, winds will switch to the northwest and increase to 20 to 30 mph with gusts over 40 mph. These winds will last through mid to late morning on Friday.

UPDATE: NWS issues fire weather warning

In accordance with Governor Laura Kelly’s Executive Order No. 20-05 which temporarily prohibits utility disconnects, the City of Salina suspended disconnection of water services for non-payment at 12:01 p.m. on March 17, 2020.

Customers are encouraged to continue to pay their water bills using any of the following options:

•Online: www.salina-ks.gov (e-checks or credit cards are accepted)

•Mail: City of Salina Water Dept., PO Box 1307, Salina, KS 67402-1307)

•Drop-box: located on the southwest side of the circle drive of the City County Building, 300 W. Ash St.

If you have questions or concerns, contact Water Customer Accounting at (785) 309-5740.

In accordance with Governor Laura Kelly’s Executive Order No. 20-05 which temporarily prohibits utility disconnects, the City of Salina suspended disconnection of water services for non-payment at 12:01 p.m. on March 17, 2020.Customers are encouraged to continue to pay their water bills using any of the following options:•Online: www.salina-ks.gov (e-checks or credit cards are accepted)•Phone: (785) 309-5740•Mail: City of Salina Water Dept., PO Box 1307, Salina, KS 67402-1307)•Drop-box: located on the southwest side of the circle drive of the City County Building, 300 W. Ash St.If you have questions or concerns, contact Water Customer Accounting at (785) 309-5740.

City suspends water service disconnects

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce&nbsp; wants Salina to be strong.

This afternoon, the chamber announced that it has launched a website&nbsp; -- titled “Salina Strong” -- to keep the chamber membership and business community up to date on business resources, workforce information, restaurant and retail businesses offering delivery, take-out, and curbside options, health and safety updates, and remote working tools.

The site is located at <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html">www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html</a>. It can be used as a one stop shop for information and assistance and will continuously be updated with information.

The full effect of COVID-19 remains to be fully realized but the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is doing everything in its power to provide relevant and pertinent information and support to the business community, the chamber noted in a news release.

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce&nbsp; wants Salina to be strong.This afternoon, the chamber announced that it has launched a website&nbsp; -- titled “Salina Strong” -- to keep the chamber membership and business community up to date on business resources, workforce information, restaurant and retail businesses offering delivery, take-out, and curbside options, health and safety updates, and remote working tools.The site is located at <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html">www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html</a>. It can be used as a one stop shop for information and assistance and will continuously be updated with information. The full effect of COVID-19 remains to be fully realized but the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is doing everything in its power to provide relevant and pertinent information and support to the business community, the chamber noted in a news release.

Chamber launches Salina Strong business support site

The City of Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center (SDRC) and Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility will be closed Thursday until further notice to align with the following.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.

• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584558499966.jpeg" alt="Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center. Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center. Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center (SDRC) and Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility will be closed Thursday until further notice to align with the following.• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

City closes recycling, hazardous waste facilities

Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the economic impact felt by many, OCCK Transportation will offer free fares for all public transit services, including CityGo, 81 Connection, Paratransit and City of Abilene, starting Thursday and continuing indefinitely.

Additionally, OCCK is restricting access to its Transportation office at 340 North Santa Fe Avenue to employees only until further notice.&nbsp;

"We are charged with making difficult decisions about how to move forward while keeping the health and safety of everyone involved as a top priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information about possibly reducing services will be announced when decisions are made.&nbsp;&nbsp;We must adapt and continue to evaluate the situation as it evolves.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are working with federal, state and local officials as we move forward in this unknown territory," OCCK Transportation noted in a news release this morning.

You can follow OCCK Transportation on Facebook (OCCK Transportation)&nbsp;or via its website at <a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com">www.salinacitygo.com</a> for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573762731467.jpeg" alt="Salina CityGo bus. Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Salina CityGo bus. Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the economic impact felt by many, OCCK Transportation will offer free fares for all public transit services, including CityGo, 81 Connection, Paratransit and City of Abilene, starting Thursday and continuing indefinitely.Additionally, OCCK is restricting access to its Transportation office at 340 North Santa Fe Avenue to employees only until further notice.&nbsp;"We are charged with making difficult decisions about how to move forward while keeping the health and safety of everyone involved as a top priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information about possibly reducing services will be announced when decisions are made.&nbsp;&nbsp;We must adapt and continue to evaluate the situation as it evolves.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are working with federal, state and local officials as we move forward in this unknown territory," OCCK Transportation noted in a news release this morning.You can follow OCCK Transportation on Facebook (OCCK Transportation)&nbsp;or via its website at <a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com">www.salinacitygo.com</a> for more information as it becomes available.

OCCK Transportation offers free fares

Part of our area looks to be in for some rain overnight.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, showers and storms are expected to overspread the area late tonight and continue into early Thursday morning. The stronger storms will be capable of quarter size hail and 60 mph winds. 

Flooding will also be possible, with southeast Kansas having the higher chances to see some minor flooding, NWS noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584546177155.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Part of our area looks to be in for some rain overnight.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, showers and storms are expected to overspread the area late tonight and continue into early Thursday morning. The stronger storms will be capable of quarter size hail and 60 mph winds. Flooding will also be possible, with southeast Kansas having the higher chances to see some minor flooding, NWS noted.

NWS: Rain, storms possible overnight

By GLEN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

This week I am in Washington, D.C., on Kansas Farm Bureau’s Leaders Engaged and Acting in D.C. (LEADs) trip. I must admit that I always enjoy coming to our nation’s capital. Coming here involves many surreal moments for me. This past week I sat down on a bench in the mall and looked around. In one direction was the Capitol itself, how many times is it the backdrop for news stories we watch on our TV. Today, not only will I see the Capitol, I will be inside on business for our Kansas Farm Bureau. Heady stuff for a simple farm kid from Kansas.

When Jennifer and I served on Young Farmers and Ranchers we often said, “The world is ruled by those who show up.” Over the years I have come have a better understanding of what that means and just how true it is. I truly wish that everyone would have the opportunity to come to Washington, D.C. and get involved with the governance of our great nation. It is important that everyday citizens get involved and make their issues and ideas known.

This is especially true for those of us in agriculture. We are less than 2 percent of the population, and I suspect that number is dropping each year. &nbsp;We also run businesses that are highly technical, are not very well understood and operate on razor thin margins. It is of the utmost importance that we make sure we have a good relationship with our elected officials, and we meet them on their own turf. That is why events like LEADs are so important and why it is so important that as many members as possible make regular trips to Washington D.C. and Topeka.

Farm Bureau has become one of the leading voices for agriculture because of our members making trips like this. Whether it is Day at the Statehouse in Topeka or LEADs, it is important for our legislators to see farmers and ranchers and not just KFB staff. It is critical we tell our stories to them about how legislation or regulations affect our operations. It never hurts to remind our elected officials they represent real people.

I also think it is good to come to Washington, D.C., and see the sights, understand a little bit of how government works and have a greater feel of just how to get things done. I know there are a lot of jokes to be made about those things, but I promise you it helps to see it in person. I have always said that the hardest part of any trip is when you can still see your mailbox in the rearview mirror. Getting away is tough and there are sacrifices but I hope each of you will make the time to get involved and travel to our capitals to take an active part in our governance and make your voices heard.

"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/2019/11/1574091484634.jpeg" alt="Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLEN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherThis week I am in Washington, D.C., on Kansas Farm Bureau’s Leaders Engaged and Acting in D.C. (LEADs) trip. I must admit that I always enjoy coming to our nation’s capital. Coming here involves many surreal moments for me. This past week I sat down on a bench in the mall and looked around. In one direction was the Capitol itself, how many times is it the backdrop for news stories we watch on our TV. Today, not only will I see the Capitol, I will be inside on business for our Kansas Farm Bureau. Heady stuff for a simple farm kid from Kansas.When Jennifer and I served on Young Farmers and Ranchers we often said, “The world is ruled by those who show up.” Over the years I have come have a better understanding of what that means and just how true it is. I truly wish that everyone would have the opportunity to come to Washington, D.C. and get involved with the governance of our great nation. It is important that everyday citizens get involved and make their issues and ideas known.This is especially true for those of us in agriculture. We are less than 2 percent of the population, and I suspect that number is dropping each year. &nbsp;We also run businesses that are highly technical, are not very well understood and operate on razor thin margins. It is of the utmost importance that we make sure we have a good relationship with our elected officials, and we meet them on their own turf. That is why events like LEADs are so important and why it is so important that as many members as possible make regular trips to Washington D.C. and Topeka.Farm Bureau has become one of the leading voices for agriculture because of our members making trips like this. Whether it is Day at the Statehouse in Topeka or LEADs, it is important for our legislators to see farmers and ranchers and not just KFB staff. It is critical we tell our stories to them about how legislation or regulations affect our operations. It never hurts to remind our elected officials they represent real people.I also think it is good to come to Washington, D.C., and see the sights, understand a little bit of how government works and have a greater feel of just how to get things done. I know there are a lot of jokes to be made about those things, but I promise you it helps to see it in person. I have always said that the hardest part of any trip is when you can still see your mailbox in the rearview mirror. Getting away is tough and there are sacrifices but I hope each of you will make the time to get involved and travel to our capitals to take an active part in our governance and make your voices heard."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: Engaging in DC

The Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank continues helping those in need. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinafoodbank/">Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank </a>Facebook page:

The Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank continues helping those in need. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinafoodbank/">Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank </a>Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinafoodbank%2Fposts%2F3934191719931931&width=500" width="500" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Food bank continues help, lists most needed items

Today is Wednesday, March 18, the 78th day of 2020. There are 288 days left in the year.

On March 18, 1940, Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini met at the Brenner Pass, where the Italian dictator agreed to join Germany's war against France and Britain.

In 1766, Britain repealed the Stamp Act of 1765.

In 1922, Mohandas K. Gandhi was sentenced in India to six years' imprisonment for civil disobedience. (He was released after serving two years.)

In 1925, the Tri-State Tornado struck southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana, resulting in some 700 deaths.

In 1937, in America's worst school disaster, nearly 300 people, most of them children, were killed in a natural gas explosion at the New London Consolidated School in Rusk County, Texas.

In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order authorizing the War Relocation Authority, which was put in charge of interning Japanese-Americans, with Milton S. Eisenhower (the younger brother of Dwight D. Eisenhower) as its director.

In 1963, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Gideon v. Wainwright, ruled unanimously that state courts were required to provide legal counsel to criminal defendants who could not afford to hire an attorney on their own.

In 1965, the first spacewalk took place as Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov went outside his Voskhod 2 capsule, secured by a tether.

In 1980, Frank Gotti, the 12-year-old youngest son of mobster John Gotti, was struck and killed by a car driven by John Favara, a neighbor in Queens, New York. (The following July, Favara vanished, the apparent victim of a gang hit.)

In 1996, rejecting an insanity defense, a jury in Dedham, Massachusetts, convicted John C. Salvi III of murdering two women in attacks at two Boston-area abortion clinics in December 1994. (Salvi later committed suicide in his prison cell.)

In 2002, Brittanie Cecil died two days short of her 14th birthday after being hit in the head by a puck at a game between the host Columbus Blue Jackets and Calgary Flames; it was apparently the first such fan fatality in NHL history.

In 2005, doctors in Florida, acting on orders of a state judge, removed Terri Schiavo's feeding tube. (Despite the efforts of congressional Republicans to intervene and repeated court appeals by Schiavo's parents, the brain-damaged woman died on March 31, 2005, at age 41.)

In 2018, Vladimir Putin rolled to a crushing reelection victory for six more years as Russia's president.

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama signed into law a $38 billion jobs bill containing a modest mix of tax breaks and spending designed to encourage the private sector to start hiring again. Actor Fess Parker, 85, died in Santa Ynez, California. Jerome York, an Apple Inc. board member and a financial wizard credited with turning around Chrysler and IBM, died in Pontiac, Michigan, at age 71.

Five years ago: Militants opened fire at a museum in Tunisia's capital, killing 22 people, most of them foreign tourists. Serbia arrested eight men accused of taking part in the massacre of some 1,300 people at a warehouse on the outskirts of Srebrenica in 1995. Lindsey Vonn won the World Cup downhill title for the seventh time, winning the last race in the discipline at the World Cup finals in Meribel, France.

One year ago: Warner Bros. chief Kevin Tsujihara stepped down from the studio following claims that he had promised roles to an actress with whom he was having an affair; he was one of the highest-ranking Hollywood executives to be felled by sexual misconduct allegations. Brooks &amp; Dunn, Ray Stevens and record label head Jerry Bradley were announced as inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Today's Birthdays: Composer John Kander is 93. Country singer Charley Pride is 86. Nobel peace laureate and former South African president F.W. de Klerk is 84. Country singer Margie Bowes is 79. Actor Kevin Dobson is 77. Actor Brad Dourif is 70. Jazz musician Bill Frisell is 69. Singer Irene Cara is 61. Alt-country musician Karen Grotberg (The Jayhawks) is 61. Movie writer-director Luc Besson is 61. Actor Geoffrey Owens is 59. Actor Thomas Ian Griffith is 58. Singer-songwriter James McMurtry is 58. TV personality Mike Rowe is 58. Singer-actress Vanessa L. Williams is 57. Olympic gold medal speedskater Bonnie Blair is 56. Country musician Scott Saunders (Sons of the Desert) is 56. Actor David Cubitt is 55. Rock musician Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains) is 54. Rock singer-musician Miki Berenyi is 53. Actor Michael Bergin is 51. Rapper-actress-talk show host Queen Latifah is 50. Former White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus is 48. Actor-comedian Dane Cook is 48. Country singer Philip Sweet (Little Big Town) is 46. Rock musician Stuart Zender is 46. Singers Evan and Jaron Lowenstein are 46. Actress-singer-dancer Sutton Foster is 45. Rock singer Adam Levine (Maroon 5) is 41. Rock musician Daren Taylor (Airborne Toxic Event) is 40. Olympic gold medal figure skater Alexei Yagudin is 40. Actor Adam Pally is 38. Actor Cornelius Smith Jr. is 38. Actor Duane Henry (TV: "NCIS") is 35. Actress Lily Collins is 31. Actress-dancer Julia Goldani Telles is 25. Actress Ciara Bravo is 23. Actor Blake Garrett Rosenthal is 16.

Thought for Today: "No man has a right in America to treat any other man tolerantly, for tolerance is the assumption of superiority." — Wendell Willkie, American politician (1892-1944).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Wednesday, March 18, the 78th day of 2020. There are 288 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 18, 1940, Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini met at the Brenner Pass, where the Italian dictator agreed to join Germany's war against France and Britain.On this date:In 1766, Britain repealed the Stamp Act of 1765.In 1922, Mohandas K. Gandhi was sentenced in India to six years' imprisonment for civil disobedience. (He was released after serving two years.)In 1925, the Tri-State Tornado struck southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana, resulting in some 700 deaths.In 1937, in America's worst school disaster, nearly 300 people, most of them children, were killed in a natural gas explosion at the New London Consolidated School in Rusk County, Texas.In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order authorizing the War Relocation Authority, which was put in charge of interning Japanese-Americans, with Milton S. Eisenhower (the younger brother of Dwight D. Eisenhower) as its director.In 1963, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Gideon v. Wainwright, ruled unanimously that state courts were required to provide legal counsel to criminal defendants who could not afford to hire an attorney on their own.In 1965, the first spacewalk took place as Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov went outside his Voskhod 2 capsule, secured by a tether.In 1980, Frank Gotti, the 12-year-old youngest son of mobster John Gotti, was struck and killed by a car driven by John Favara, a neighbor in Queens, New York. (The following July, Favara vanished, the apparent victim of a gang hit.)In 1996, rejecting an insanity defense, a jury in Dedham, Massachusetts, convicted John C. Salvi III of murdering two women in attacks at two Boston-area abortion clinics in December 1994. (Salvi later committed suicide in his prison cell.)In 2002, Brittanie Cecil died two days short of her 14th birthday after being hit in the head by a puck at a game between the host Columbus Blue Jackets and Calgary Flames; it was apparently the first such fan fatality in NHL history.In 2005, doctors in Florida, acting on orders of a state judge, removed Terri Schiavo's feeding tube. (Despite the efforts of congressional Republicans to intervene and repeated court appeals by Schiavo's parents, the brain-damaged woman died on March 31, 2005, at age 41.)In 2018, Vladimir Putin rolled to a crushing reelection victory for six more years as Russia's president.Ten years ago: President Barack Obama signed into law a $38 billion jobs bill containing a modest mix of tax breaks and spending designed to encourage the private sector to start hiring again. Actor Fess Parker, 85, died in Santa Ynez, California. Jerome York, an Apple Inc. board member and a financial wizard credited with turning around Chrysler and IBM, died in Pontiac, Michigan, at age 71.Five years ago: Militants opened fire at a museum in Tunisia's capital, killing 22 people, most of them foreign tourists. Serbia arrested eight men accused of taking part in the massacre of some 1,300 people at a warehouse on the outskirts of Srebrenica in 1995. Lindsey Vonn won the World Cup downhill title for the seventh time, winning the last race in the discipline at the World Cup finals in Meribel, France.One year ago: Warner Bros. chief Kevin Tsujihara stepped down from the studio following claims that he had promised roles to an actress with whom he was having an affair; he was one of the highest-ranking Hollywood executives to be felled by sexual misconduct allegations. Brooks &amp; Dunn, Ray Stevens and record label head Jerry Bradley were announced as inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame.Today's Birthdays: Composer John Kander is 93. Country singer Charley Pride is 86. Nobel peace laureate and former South African president F.W. de Klerk is 84. Country singer Margie Bowes is 79. Actor Kevin Dobson is 77. Actor Brad Dourif is 70. Jazz musician Bill Frisell is 69. Singer Irene Cara is 61. Alt-country musician Karen Grotberg (The Jayhawks) is 61. Movie writer-director Luc Besson is 61. Actor Geoffrey Owens is 59. Actor Thomas Ian Griffith is 58. Singer-songwriter James McMurtry is 58. TV personality Mike Rowe is 58. Singer-actress Vanessa L. Williams is 57. Olympic gold medal speedskater Bonnie Blair is 56. Country musician Scott Saunders (Sons of the Desert) is 56. Actor David Cubitt is 55. Rock musician Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains) is 54. Rock singer-musician Miki Berenyi is 53. Actor Michael Bergin is 51. Rapper-actress-talk show host Queen Latifah is 50. Former White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus is 48. Actor-comedian Dane Cook is 48. Country singer Philip Sweet (Little Big Town) is 46. Rock musician Stuart Zender is 46. Singers Evan and Jaron Lowenstein are 46. Actress-singer-dancer Sutton Foster is 45. Rock singer Adam Levine (Maroon 5) is 41. Rock musician Daren Taylor (Airborne Toxic Event) is 40. Olympic gold medal figure skater Alexei Yagudin is 40. Actor Adam Pally is 38. Actor Cornelius Smith Jr. is 38. Actor Duane Henry (TV: "NCIS") is 35. Actress Lily Collins is 31. Actress-dancer Julia Goldani Telles is 25. Actress Ciara Bravo is 23. Actor Blake Garrett Rosenthal is 16.Thought for Today: "No man has a right in America to treat any other man tolerantly, for tolerance is the assumption of superiority." — Wendell Willkie, American politician (1892-1944).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- March 18

Late this afternoon
Rolling Hills Zoo (RHZ) announced that effective immediately they would be
closing their doors to guests until further notice due to the situation
surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;&nbsp;
All scheduled events and programs have also been cancelled or will be
rescheduled at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp; 

“Our primary
obligation is to provide the very best care for our animals,” shared Bob
Jenkins, RHZ Executive Director.&nbsp;&nbsp; “That
requires a professional staff who are healthy and able to work.&nbsp;&nbsp; By closing to the public we are reducing the
risk of exposure to our staff members.” 

“While we will see a
significant reduction in revenues, when you weigh the financial loss against
the risk of being open, we know that this is the right thing to do for our
community,” stated Jenkins.&nbsp;&nbsp; 

While gates will be
closed to the public the staff will continue to work onsite to provide care to
the nearly 300 animals that call Rolling Hills Zoo home, as well as maintaining
Zoo’s infrastructure and work on areas and projects that are harder to
accomplish with guests in the park.&nbsp; They
will also be performing a very deep cleaning of the zoo to get ready to welcome
guests when the zoo re-opens.&nbsp; 

In summary Jenkins
added, “As the one of the largest tourist attractions in the region, we are
sending a very strong signal that as leaders in the care of wildlife species
and public education, we are doing what is best for them, for our employees and
volunteers, and for our community which we serve.”

--<a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org">Rolling Hills Zoo</a>--

Late this afternoon
Rolling Hills Zoo (RHZ) announced that effective immediately they would be
closing their doors to guests until further notice due to the situation
surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;&nbsp;
All scheduled events and programs have also been cancelled or will be
rescheduled at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp; “Our primary
obligation is to provide the very best care for our animals,” shared Bob
Jenkins, RHZ Executive Director.&nbsp;&nbsp; “That
requires a professional staff who are healthy and able to work.&nbsp;&nbsp; By closing to the public we are reducing the
risk of exposure to our staff members.” “While we will see a
significant reduction in revenues, when you weigh the financial loss against
the risk of being open, we know that this is the right thing to do for our
community,” stated Jenkins.&nbsp;&nbsp; While gates will be
closed to the public the staff will continue to work onsite to provide care to
the nearly 300 animals that call Rolling Hills Zoo home, as well as maintaining
Zoo’s infrastructure and work on areas and projects that are harder to
accomplish with guests in the park.&nbsp; They
will also be performing a very deep cleaning of the zoo to get ready to welcome
guests when the zoo re-opens.&nbsp; In summary Jenkins
added, “As the one of the largest tourist attractions in the region, we are
sending a very strong signal that as leaders in the care of wildlife species
and public education, we are doing what is best for them, for our employees and
volunteers, and for our community which we serve.”--<a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org">Rolling Hills Zoo</a>--

Rolling Hills Zoo closed until further notice

The City of Salina has canceled or postponed meetings, programming and events to align with the following:

• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15 day period.

• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04 effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

Wednesday -- Salina Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting

Thursday and Friday -- Smoky Hill Museum 1950s Film Series screening of Picnic in the Art Center Cinema (postponed until mid-May, unless circumstances change)

Thursday -- Board of Zoning Appeals (regular meeting)

Friday -- Accessibility Advisory Board (special meeting)

Parks &amp; Recreation Programming Cancellations (until further notice)

Adult Drop-In Program at the Salina Fieldhouse

Baseball practices at the Salina Fieldhouse

Barkley Dog Park &amp; the dog park behind Salina Animal Services

For online information, visit <a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov">www.salina-ks.gov</a>, and select Cancellations &amp; Closures within the Featured Items feed or call any of the following departments: Parks and Recreation, (785) 309-5765; Smoky Hill Museum, (785) 309-5776; Community &amp; Development Services, (785) 309-5715.

The City of Salina has canceled or postponed meetings, programming and events to align with the following:• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15 day period.• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04 effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.<h2>Meeting/Event Cancellations</h2>Wednesday -- Salina Parks and Recreation Advisory Board MeetingWednesday -- Complete Count CommitteeThursday and Friday -- Smoky Hill Museum 1950s Film Series screening of Picnic in the Art Center Cinema (postponed until mid-May, unless circumstances change)Thursday -- Board of Zoning Appeals (regular meeting)Friday -- Accessibility Advisory Board (special meeting)<h2>Parks &amp; Recreation Programming Cancellations (until further notice)</h2>Golden Year Spring FestivalTherapeutic Recreation ProgramsToddler TimeYouth 3 v 3 BasketballAdult dance classesAdult Volleyball LeagueAdult Drop-In Program at the Salina FieldhouseSenior Aquatic Exercise ProgramSenior Land Exercise ProgramBaseball practices at the Salina FieldhouseBaton classesTai Chi classes<h2>Closures (until further notice)</h2>Barkley Dog Park &amp; the dog park behind Salina Animal ServicesCarver CenterFriendship CenterLakewood Discovery CenterSalina Field HouseSmoky Hill MuseumPublic restrooms in City of Salina parksFor online information, visit <a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov">www.salina-ks.gov</a>, and select Cancellations &amp; Closures within the Featured Items feed or call any of the following departments: Parks and Recreation, (785) 309-5765; Smoky Hill Museum, (785) 309-5776; Community &amp; Development Services, (785) 309-5715.

City of Salina announces cancellations, closures

Here's the daily update from Saline County:

As of today, March 17th, 2020, Saline County has not had
any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19.&nbsp;
When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County
Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.

Governor Laura Kelly issued Executive Order 20-04 today
prohibiting mass gatherings to limit the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; The Governor’s Executive Order defines mass
gatherings as 50 or more people.&nbsp; Some
activities and facilities that are exempt from the order.

President Trump’s address yesterday urged for the slowing of
the spread of COVID-19 and suggested a more restrictive avoidance of any social
gathering of people or groups of more than 10 people.&nbsp; This aggressive approach is a plea for
citizens to act fast and keep people socially distanced from one another to
slow the spread of this virus.&nbsp; 

A graphic
provided to our local responders by the Kansas Division of Emergency Management
showed a comparison of the cases in Italy about the cases in the U.S. as of
March 16th.&nbsp; Implementing
aggressive social distancing measures now can have a tremendous impact to slow
the spread.

Guidance was released today by the Kansas Department of
Agriculture for Food Service Establishments regarding COVID-19.&nbsp; Please see that guidance by visiting KDHE’s
website: <a href="https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus">https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus</a>
or <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.

We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the
spread of diseases by:

If you have concerns of
     your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.

Here's the daily update from Saline County:As of today, March 17th, 2020, Saline County has not had
any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19.&nbsp;
When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County
Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.Governor Laura Kelly issued Executive Order 20-04 today
prohibiting mass gatherings to limit the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; The Governor’s Executive Order defines mass
gatherings as 50 or more people.&nbsp; Some
activities and facilities that are exempt from the order.President Trump’s address yesterday urged for the slowing of
the spread of COVID-19 and suggested a more restrictive avoidance of any social
gathering of people or groups of more than 10 people.&nbsp; This aggressive approach is a plea for
citizens to act fast and keep people socially distanced from one another to
slow the spread of this virus.&nbsp; <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584486366957.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A graphic
provided to our local responders by the Kansas Division of Emergency Management
showed a comparison of the cases in Italy about the cases in the U.S. as of
March 16th.&nbsp; Implementing
aggressive social distancing measures now can have a tremendous impact to slow
the spread.Guidance was released today by the Kansas Department of
Agriculture for Food Service Establishments regarding COVID-19.&nbsp; Please see that guidance by visiting KDHE’s
website: <a href="https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus">https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus</a>
or <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>. We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the
spread of diseases by:Staying at home if you are
 sick.Washing your hands.Covering your sneezes and
 coughs.If you have concerns of
 your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.

COVID-19: March 17 update from Saline County

Effective today and until further notice, the Salina Catholic Diocese has canceled all but funeral masses.

Bishop Gerald L. Vincke addressed the matter in a letter posted today on the diocese website. That letter follows.

Dear Priests, Deacons, Religious and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Salina,

With deep sadness and in conjunction with the bishops of Kansas, effective 1 pm on March 17, 2020, and until further notice, all public celebrations of the Holy Mass in the&nbsp;Diocese of Salina&nbsp;are cancelled except for funeral Masses.&nbsp; Some of you will be understanding, others will be saddened, others angry, and others will feel like this decision is over-the-top and media driven.&nbsp; Please know that this decision was a very difficult one. In making this decision, we have the very young, the aged, and those most immune compromised in mind as we respect the dignity of every human person.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Confirmation Masses are postponed to a later date.&nbsp; Funeral Masses are limited to immediate family members. No funeral luncheons may be held. A funeral liturgy outside of Mass must be limited to immediate family members also. In addition to celebrating the funeral Mass or funeral liturgy outside of Mass, families and pastors are encouraged to schedule Memorial Masses for their loved ones in the future, when public health restrictions are relaxed, so that larger numbers may gather if desired.&nbsp; Priests are invited to continue to offer Mass privately for the Mass intentions scheduled.&nbsp;

All communal penance services are cancelled. Priests should continue as much as possible to offer individual confessions at regularly scheduled times.&nbsp; Confessions are to be heard only behind a screen or other barrier and not face to face. At no time should there be more than 10 people gathered in the church waiting for confession.&nbsp; Baptisms may continue but only parents, godparents and immediate family members who are asymptomatic may attend.&nbsp;

Please do not come to any of the above if you are sick, if you have been exposed to the coronavirus, if you suspect you have been exposed or if you have been advised by a doctor not to go out in public or attend public gatherings.&nbsp;

I know that many of you will feel that we are taking away Jesus when we need Him the most.&nbsp;Others will say that if we had more faith, all will be well.&nbsp; But the Lord also invites us to be prudent and charitable, too.&nbsp; I am encouraging all priests to keep the Church doors open as much as possible so that the faithful can pray.&nbsp; In many ways, we can unite ourselves with Jesus, who even more deeply felt abandoned even by his Heavenly Father during his agony.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

I encourage all the faithful to continue to join in prayer for the health and protection of our entire community and nation, and for an end to this crisis. I encourage all families and individuals to pray the rosary, invoking the intercession and protection of our Blessed Mother, Health of the Sick, for these intentions and for the health and well-being of our brothers and sisters who are ill, for their caretakers, and for all doctors, nurses, medical and emergency preparedness personnel and elected officials.&nbsp; I also ask you to join in praying a novena to the Blessed Mother which began March 16 until the Annunciation on March 25.&nbsp; The prayer asking for her intercession is available on our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinadiocese.org/offices/communications-office">website</a>.&nbsp; Thank you.&nbsp; Please know that Masses will be available to watch on our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinadiocese.org/">website</a>&nbsp;too.

May God bless you and your families with much peace and healing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584483611092.jpeg" alt="Bishop Gerald L. Vincke. Photo courtesy the Salina Catholic Diocese" />
 <figcaption>Bishop Gerald L. Vincke. Photo courtesy the Salina Catholic Diocese</figcaption>
 </figure>Effective today and until further notice, the Salina Catholic Diocese has canceled all but funeral masses.Bishop Gerald L. Vincke addressed the matter in a letter posted today on the diocese website. That letter follows.Dear Priests, Deacons, Religious and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Salina,With deep sadness and in conjunction with the bishops of Kansas, effective 1 pm on March 17, 2020, and until further notice, all public celebrations of the Holy Mass in the&nbsp;Diocese of Salina&nbsp;are cancelled except for funeral Masses.&nbsp; Some of you will be understanding, others will be saddened, others angry, and others will feel like this decision is over-the-top and media driven.&nbsp; Please know that this decision was a very difficult one. In making this decision, we have the very young, the aged, and those most immune compromised in mind as we respect the dignity of every human person.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Confirmation Masses are postponed to a later date.&nbsp; Funeral Masses are limited to immediate family members. No funeral luncheons may be held. A funeral liturgy outside of Mass must be limited to immediate family members also. In addition to celebrating the funeral Mass or funeral liturgy outside of Mass, families and pastors are encouraged to schedule Memorial Masses for their loved ones in the future, when public health restrictions are relaxed, so that larger numbers may gather if desired.&nbsp; Priests are invited to continue to offer Mass privately for the Mass intentions scheduled.&nbsp;All communal penance services are cancelled. Priests should continue as much as possible to offer individual confessions at regularly scheduled times.&nbsp; Confessions are to be heard only behind a screen or other barrier and not face to face. At no time should there be more than 10 people gathered in the church waiting for confession.&nbsp; Baptisms may continue but only parents, godparents and immediate family members who are asymptomatic may attend.&nbsp;Please do not come to any of the above if you are sick, if you have been exposed to the coronavirus, if you suspect you have been exposed or if you have been advised by a doctor not to go out in public or attend public gatherings.&nbsp;I know that many of you will feel that we are taking away Jesus when we need Him the most.&nbsp;Others will say that if we had more faith, all will be well.&nbsp; But the Lord also invites us to be prudent and charitable, too.&nbsp; I am encouraging all priests to keep the Church doors open as much as possible so that the faithful can pray.&nbsp; In many ways, we can unite ourselves with Jesus, who even more deeply felt abandoned even by his Heavenly Father during his agony.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I encourage all the faithful to continue to join in prayer for the health and protection of our entire community and nation, and for an end to this crisis. I encourage all families and individuals to pray the rosary, invoking the intercession and protection of our Blessed Mother, Health of the Sick, for these intentions and for the health and well-being of our brothers and sisters who are ill, for their caretakers, and for all doctors, nurses, medical and emergency preparedness personnel and elected officials.&nbsp; I also ask you to join in praying a novena to the Blessed Mother which began March 16 until the Annunciation on March 25.&nbsp; The prayer asking for her intercession is available on our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinadiocese.org/offices/communications-office">website</a>.&nbsp; Thank you.&nbsp; Please know that Masses will be available to watch on our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinadiocese.org/">website</a>&nbsp;too.May God bless you and your families with much peace and healing.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Christ’s service,Most Rev. Gerald L. VinckeBishop of Salina

Salina Catholic Diocese cancels most masses

Salina USD 305 has issued a statement in response to Gov. Laura Kelly's announcement that all Kansas schools will be closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. It is as follows.

Today Governor Kelly announced the closure of Kansas Schools as we know them. When USD 305 reopens, instruction won’t look the same. District staff will use guidelines provided by a statewide committee of Kansas teachers to develop a new learning model for Salina students.

•Students who attend Salina Public Schools will not have class March 23 - March 27.&nbsp;

•During that time our teachers will develop new ways of instruction to be used for the remainder of the school year.

•By March 30, our plan for instruction will be shared with parents and the school community.

•Once the Kansas State Department of Education has approved our plan, instruction will resume.

•Students will not be coming back to full-day, whole-class instruction.

•Outside of limited instructional opportunities, all school activities and events in our buildings will be canceled&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; through May 31.

What is certain is that USD 305 students will have the opportunity to continue learning. Different strategies and approaches will be in place across the state, and what that looks like in Salina will be decided as our committed staff work through recommendations and the resources needed.

Salina Public Schools will continue to communicate through parent notifications, our website (<a href="https://www.usd305.com/" target="_blank">usd305.com</a>, local media outlets and on social media.

Salina USD 305 has issued a statement in response to Gov. Laura Kelly's announcement that all Kansas schools will be closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. It is as follows.Today Governor Kelly announced the closure of Kansas Schools as we know them. When USD 305 reopens, instruction won’t look the same. District staff will use guidelines provided by a statewide committee of Kansas teachers to develop a new learning model for Salina students.This means:•Students who attend Salina Public Schools will not have class March 23 - March 27.&nbsp;•During that time our teachers will develop new ways of instruction to be used for the remainder of the school year.•By March 30, our plan for instruction will be shared with parents and the school community.•Once the Kansas State Department of Education has approved our plan, instruction will resume.•Students will not be coming back to full-day, whole-class instruction.•Outside of limited instructional opportunities, all school activities and events in our buildings will be canceled&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; through May 31.What is certain is that USD 305 students will have the opportunity to continue learning. Different strategies and approaches will be in place across the state, and what that looks like in Salina will be decided as our committed staff work through recommendations and the resources needed.Salina Public Schools will continue to communicate through parent notifications, our website (<a href="https://www.usd305.com/" target="_blank">usd305.com</a>, local media outlets and on social media.

USD 305 ready to develop new learning model

Salina Municipal Court is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following is a release from the City of Salina.

Beginning Monday, all hearings in Salina Municipal Court will be rescheduled. Notice will be sent from the Court to advise the involved persons of a new hearing date for their case. This action is being taken to align with the following:

•The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15 day period.

•The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.

•Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04 effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

If you have questions about the scheduling of a case you are involved with, you may contact the Municipal Court clerk’s office at (785) 826-7230 for an update on a new hearing date. You may also contact the Municipal Court by sending an email to <a href="mailto:municipal.court@salina.org">municipal.court@salina.org</a> and a response will be sent by email.

There are already several options available to make payments on a Municipal

Court citation or case. Information about payment options can be found on the Municipal Court’s page on the City of Salina website at <a href="http://www.salinaks.gov/fine">www.salinaks.gov/fine</a> or by calling (844) 546-9369. If you have questions or need assistance, you may contact the Municipal Court clerk’s office at (785) 826-7230.

Probation appointments will continue as scheduled; however, we ask that anyone experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath please contact the Salina Municipal Court to have your appointment rescheduled. 

Salina Municipal Court is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.Following is a release from the City of Salina.Beginning Monday, all hearings in Salina Municipal Court will be rescheduled. Notice will be sent from the Court to advise the involved persons of a new hearing date for their case. This action is being taken to align with the following:•The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15 day period.•The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.•Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04 effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.If you have questions about the scheduling of a case you are involved with, you may contact the Municipal Court clerk’s office at (785) 826-7230 for an update on a new hearing date. You may also contact the Municipal Court by sending an email to <a href="mailto:municipal.court@salina.org">municipal.court@salina.org</a> and a response will be sent by email.There are already several options available to make payments on a MunicipalCourt citation or case. Information about payment options can be found on the Municipal Court’s page on the City of Salina website at <a href="http://www.salinaks.gov/fine">www.salinaks.gov/fine</a> or by calling (844) 546-9369. If you have questions or need assistance, you may contact the Municipal Court clerk’s office at (785) 826-7230.Probation appointments will continue as scheduled; however, we ask that anyone experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath please contact the Salina Municipal Court to have your appointment rescheduled.

Hearings in Salina Municipal Court to be rescheduled

Cloud County Community College, working to assist local agencies in mitigating the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19, continues to monitor the latest information in an effort to support the well-being of students, employees and the community. Effective Monday, Cloud County Community College will transition from face-to-face courses to online instruction for the remainder of the semester.

“The health of Cloud’s students, employees, visitors, and the community are of critical importance,” said Dr. Adrian Douglas, president of Cloud County. “We have students travel to campus from a wide geographical area, which exposes our campus and the community, and makes CCCC more vulnerable to the possible spread of infection.”

Beginning March 23, students must log into their Canvas account, the college’s learning management system, to continue their coursework for the remainder of the semester. Students are asked to regularly monitor their email accounts for communications from instructors. If any student has questions, or needs assistance, they can contact Amanda Strait, director of online services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:astrait@cloud.edu" target="_blank">astrait@cloud.edu</a>.

Students are allowed to stay in housing until March 29. They are encouraged to check out permanently for the semester during this timeframe with either Susan Dudley, coordinator of residence life, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sdudley@cloud.edu" target="_blank">sdudley@cloud.edu</a>, or Caesar Wood, director of auxiliary services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:caesar.wood@cloud.edu" target="_blank">caesar.wood@cloud.edu</a>. Students who are currently living in on-campus housing and who have no other place to live, will be allowed to remain in housing.

In an effort to maintain social distancing, the Concordia and Geary County campuses will be closed to the public until further notice. The closure of the college to the public means that the following areas cannot be accessed: The Library, T-Bird Bookstore, Fitness Center, Arley Bryant Gymnasium, walking track, Thunderville, and Student Union.&nbsp;The T-Bird Café will be open only to students who have a valid meal plan. There will be no Cloud 9 Sunday Buffet until further notice.

“By limiting the number of people on campus, we are practicing the CDC-recommended social distancing to help curb the spread of COVID-19.”

Any event that was scheduled to be held on campus will be canceled or postponed. That information will be updated regularly, and can be found on the college website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cloud.edu/" target="_blank">www.cloud.edu</a>.

Following the recent statement from the NJCAA that all spring sports be canceled, Cloud is adhering to that rule, and all athletic events will be canceled for the remainder of the semester.

“We are making tough decisions based on thoughtful review of available information, in conjunction with the Cloud County Health Department, Emergency Management, and state and federal agencies to address this rapidly evolving public health issue,” Douglas said.

“The decisions being made prioritize the safety and health of all faculty, staff, students, and the community. These actions are aimed at minimizing the impact of this public health issue. The situation is continually evolving, and future guidance will be provided as new information becomes available.”

Cloud County Community College, working to assist local agencies in mitigating the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19, continues to monitor the latest information in an effort to support the well-being of students, employees and the community. Effective Monday, Cloud County Community College will transition from face-to-face courses to online instruction for the remainder of the semester.“The health of Cloud’s students, employees, visitors, and the community are of critical importance,” said Dr. Adrian Douglas, president of Cloud County. “We have students travel to campus from a wide geographical area, which exposes our campus and the community, and makes CCCC more vulnerable to the possible spread of infection.”Beginning March 23, students must log into their Canvas account, the college’s learning management system, to continue their coursework for the remainder of the semester. Students are asked to regularly monitor their email accounts for communications from instructors. If any student has questions, or needs assistance, they can contact Amanda Strait, director of online services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:astrait@cloud.edu" target="_blank">astrait@cloud.edu</a>.Students are allowed to stay in housing until March 29. They are encouraged to check out permanently for the semester during this timeframe with either Susan Dudley, coordinator of residence life, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sdudley@cloud.edu" target="_blank">sdudley@cloud.edu</a>, or Caesar Wood, director of auxiliary services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:caesar.wood@cloud.edu" target="_blank">caesar.wood@cloud.edu</a>. Students who are currently living in on-campus housing and who have no other place to live, will be allowed to remain in housing.In an effort to maintain social distancing, the Concordia and Geary County campuses will be closed to the public until further notice. The closure of the college to the public means that the following areas cannot be accessed: The Library, T-Bird Bookstore, Fitness Center, Arley Bryant Gymnasium, walking track, Thunderville, and Student Union.&nbsp;The T-Bird Café will be open only to students who have a valid meal plan. There will be no Cloud 9 Sunday Buffet until further notice.“By limiting the number of people on campus, we are practicing the CDC-recommended social distancing to help curb the spread of COVID-19.”Any event that was scheduled to be held on campus will be canceled or postponed. That information will be updated regularly, and can be found on the college website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cloud.edu/" target="_blank">www.cloud.edu</a>.Following the recent statement from the NJCAA that all spring sports be canceled, Cloud is adhering to that rule, and all athletic events will be canceled for the remainder of the semester.“We are making tough decisions based on thoughtful review of available information, in conjunction with the Cloud County Health Department, Emergency Management, and state and federal agencies to address this rapidly evolving public health issue,” Douglas said.“The decisions being made prioritize the safety and health of all faculty, staff, students, and the community. These actions are aimed at minimizing the impact of this public health issue. The situation is continually evolving, and future guidance will be provided as new information becomes available.”

CCCC halting face-to-face courses

UPDATE 3:45 p.m. Tuesday: The Emergency Food Assistance Program distribution is still on for Wednesday, but it will be on a drive-through basis at the 4-H Building. The time is still noon-1:30 p.m.

The next Emergency Food Assistance Program is scheduled for next week.

The program, hosted by Sunrise Presbyterian Church, is scheduled for noon-1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Kenwood Hall, 900 Greeley Avenue.

Food items to be distributed include black beans, canned pears, long grain rice, fresh apples, pistachio in shells, fresh oranges, dried split peas, frozen pork loin, raisins in box, brown rice, frozen pork chops, mac and cheese box, frozen slice pork ham, and fresh potatoes.

Participants are required to bring proof of income, photo I.D. or proof of a Saline County address, and a signed note if picking commodities up for someone else.   

UPDATE 3:45 p.m. Tuesday: The Emergency Food Assistance Program distribution is still on for Wednesday, but it will be on a drive-through basis at the 4-H Building. The time is still noon-1:30 p.m.The next Emergency Food Assistance Program is scheduled for next week.The program, hosted by Sunrise Presbyterian Church, is scheduled for noon-1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Kenwood Hall, 900 Greeley Avenue.Food items to be distributed include black beans, canned pears, long grain rice, fresh apples, pistachio in shells, fresh oranges, dried split peas, frozen pork loin, raisins in box, brown rice, frozen pork chops, mac and cheese box, frozen slice pork ham, and fresh potatoes.Participants are required to bring proof of income, photo I.D. or proof of a Saline County address, and a signed note if picking commodities up for someone else. Income Guidelines (monthly)HH size&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Income1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;$1,354 2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $1,832 3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $2,311 4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;$2,790 5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;$3,269 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;$3,7487&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;$4,2278&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $4,705For each additional family member add $479. Contact commodities phone 785-714-0918 with questions.

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