After warmer than normal temperatures on Sunday, we'll cool down briefly at the beginning of the work week and then warm back up by midweek.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita above normal temperatures are expected again on Sunday with highs in the 60s area wide.

After highs in the 45 to 50 degree range for Monday, look for a steady warm-up as we head into Wednesday, NWS noted. Highs Wednesday are expected to be in the 60s area wide.

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 </figure>After warmer than normal temperatures on Sunday, we'll cool down briefly at the beginning of the work week and then warm back up by midweek.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita above normal temperatures are expected again on Sunday with highs in the 60s area wide.After highs in the 45 to 50 degree range for Monday, look for a steady warm-up as we head into Wednesday, NWS noted. Highs Wednesday are expected to be in the 60s area wide.<figure>
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NWS: Warm on Sunday, cooler Monday

By TOM BELL President and CEO, Kansas Hospital Association

Recent bipartisan collaboration on KanCare legislation has been refreshing to see. Last year, KanCare expansion legislation passed the Kansas House of Representatives. This January, Republicans and Democrats got together and introduced a Kansas solution to expand KanCare in the Kansas Senate.

Right now, approximately 130,000 low-income Kansans need access to affordable health care coverage. Despite having incomes well below poverty level, they earn too much to qualify for KanCare – and yet, by virtue of being below the poverty line, they earn too little to qualify for financial assistance on marketplace insurance. Because they are in the coverage gap, they often go without health care until a serious (and expensive) health crisis occurs. These are hardworking people in our own communities – they are our friends, our neighbors and our families.

KanCare expansion will increase access to preventive care for vulnerable, low-income Kansans. Kansas hospitals will benefit because it ultimately reduces cases of uncompensated care and supports our ability to intervene sooner for better health outcomes. To ensure an effective KanCare program that improves several facets of our state – from our health to our economy – the proposed KanCare legislation includes innovative programs for pathways to work, premium assistance and a rural hospital transformation program.

The expansion legislation also incorporates personal responsibility (beneficiaries will pay a low monthly premium, and it includes a reinsurance program that reduces premiums for plans purchased on the health insurance marketplace. And, as KanCare expansion brings hundreds of millions of federal tax dollars back to the state, it will pave the way for a healthier Kansas.

Recent progress toward KanCare expansion is a result of bipartisan teamwork, something every Kansan is be proud to witness. I encourage you to join the conversation by thanking your elected officials who are in support of expanding KanCare. Let’s continue to put politics aside and do the right thing for our state and local communities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1583004926791.jpeg" alt="Tom Bell" />
 <figcaption>Tom Bell</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOM BELL President and CEO, Kansas Hospital AssociationRecent bipartisan collaboration on KanCare legislation has been refreshing to see. Last year, KanCare expansion legislation passed the Kansas House of Representatives. This January, Republicans and Democrats got together and introduced a Kansas solution to expand KanCare in the Kansas Senate.Right now, approximately 130,000 low-income Kansans need access to affordable health care coverage. Despite having incomes well below poverty level, they earn too much to qualify for KanCare – and yet, by virtue of being below the poverty line, they earn too little to qualify for financial assistance on marketplace insurance. Because they are in the coverage gap, they often go without health care until a serious (and expensive) health crisis occurs. These are hardworking people in our own communities – they are our friends, our neighbors and our families.KanCare expansion will increase access to preventive care for vulnerable, low-income Kansans. Kansas hospitals will benefit because it ultimately reduces cases of uncompensated care and supports our ability to intervene sooner for better health outcomes. To ensure an effective KanCare program that improves several facets of our state – from our health to our economy – the proposed KanCare legislation includes innovative programs for pathways to work, premium assistance and a rural hospital transformation program.The expansion legislation also incorporates personal responsibility (beneficiaries will pay a low monthly premium, and it includes a reinsurance program that reduces premiums for plans purchased on the health insurance marketplace. And, as KanCare expansion brings hundreds of millions of federal tax dollars back to the state, it will pave the way for a healthier Kansas.Recent progress toward KanCare expansion is a result of bipartisan teamwork, something every Kansan is be proud to witness. I encourage you to join the conversation by thanking your elected officials who are in support of expanding KanCare. Let’s continue to put politics aside and do the right thing for our state and local communities.

OPINION: Two keys to KanCare expansion

Mahaska recognizes one of its Salina employees who came to the aid of an accident victim. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mahaska/">Mahaska</a> Facebook page:

Mahaska recognizes one of its Salina employees who came to the aid of an accident victim. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mahaska/">Mahaska</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmahaska%2Fposts%2F1318070251730280&width=500" width="500" height="599" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Mahaska lauds employee who aided accident victim

MANHATTAN – The 2020 Kansas State University Sheep Producer Day is planned for Saturday, March 21. This year’s event will be held at K-State’s Stanley Stout Center, 2200 Denison Avenue in Manhattan.

Mike Day, head of K-State’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, will welcome attendees, followed by a variety of speakers, including

Tom Murphy, research geneticist at&nbsp;Roman L. Hruska Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, Nebraska. 

Shane Tiffany of Tiffany Cattle Company in Herington. 

Maggie Highland, a faculty member in K-State’s veterinary and diagnostic lab. 

Graduate student Tamra Kott accompanied by the 2019-2020 K-State wool judging team.

Following the lamb lunch, participants can tour Benz Rambouillet and Elder Livestock, located east of Manhattan.

“I am very excited to include managers of operations that encompass both sheep and cattle as well as welcoming Dr. Highland to K-State with this meeting,” said Alison Crane, K-State’s sheep and meat goat specialist. “Incorporating tours of local sheep production systems is something I am looking forward to continuing.”

Registration begins at 8 a.m. A trade show will take place throughout the day. Pre-registration for Kansas Sheep Association members is $15 and non-members pay $25, if paid by March 12. Registration at the door is $20 for Kansas Sheep Association members and $30 for non-members. Lunch is included with registration. For a complete schedule, registration information and to register online, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.ksu.edu/events/sheep_meat_goat_events.html" target="_blank">https://www.asi.ksu.edu/events/sheep_meat_goat_events.html</a>.

K-State Sheep Producer Day is sponsored by the Kansas Sheep Association and the K-State Department of Animal Sciences and Industry.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1583005203076.jpeg" alt="K-State sheep and meat goat specialist Alison Crane talks to workshop participants during the 2019 K-State Sheep Producer Day. Photo courtesy K-State" />
 <figcaption>K-State sheep and meat goat specialist Alison Crane talks to workshop participants during the 2019 K-State Sheep Producer Day. Photo courtesy K-State</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – The 2020 Kansas State University Sheep Producer Day is planned for Saturday, March 21. This year’s event will be held at K-State’s Stanley Stout Center, 2200 Denison Avenue in Manhattan.Mike Day, head of K-State’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, will welcome attendees, followed by a variety of speakers, includingTom Murphy, research geneticist at&nbsp;Roman L. Hruska Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, Nebraska. Shane Tiffany of Tiffany Cattle Company in Herington. Maggie Highland, a faculty member in K-State’s veterinary and diagnostic lab. Graduate student Tamra Kott accompanied by the 2019-2020 K-State wool judging team.Following the lamb lunch, participants can tour Benz Rambouillet and Elder Livestock, located east of Manhattan.“I am very excited to include managers of operations that encompass both sheep and cattle as well as welcoming Dr. Highland to K-State with this meeting,” said Alison Crane, K-State’s sheep and meat goat specialist. “Incorporating tours of local sheep production systems is something I am looking forward to continuing.”Registration begins at 8 a.m. A trade show will take place throughout the day. Pre-registration for Kansas Sheep Association members is $15 and non-members pay $25, if paid by March 12. Registration at the door is $20 for Kansas Sheep Association members and $30 for non-members. Lunch is included with registration. For a complete schedule, registration information and to register online, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.ksu.edu/events/sheep_meat_goat_events.html" target="_blank">https://www.asi.ksu.edu/events/sheep_meat_goat_events.html</a>.K-State Sheep Producer Day is sponsored by the Kansas Sheep Association and the K-State Department of Animal Sciences and Industry.&nbsp;

K-State Sheep Producer Day set for March 21

The First Amendment protects your right to express yourself freely. While you can do a lot of different things with that freedom, its highest purpose, and the reason that&nbsp;the Constitution’s framers wanted you to have it, is to express yourself politically.

All five of the rights named in the First Amendment work in concert to allow you to do just that. Your freedom of religion gives you an array of protections, including the right to follow your own conscience and develop your own values. Your freedom of speech protects your right to express those values, even if that expression is critical of the government. Freedom of the press guarantees your right to uncensored information about the world around you and especially information about what your government is doing. And if you don’t like what the government is doing — if its actions contradict the values you cherish — you have the freedom of petition, which is the freedom to ask for the changes you want and the freedom to assemble a group of like-minded people to give that request some political heft.

But what if, after all that, your representatives just won’t listen to you? Theoretically,&nbsp;you have the power to vote them out of office. But that right is much less secure than your right to express your displeasure in the first place. Depending on where you live and what your political views are, the government may be able to render your vote almost meaningless.

In most states, state legislatures are responsible for drawing up the state’s congressional and legislative maps. Practically speaking, that means that the politicians in power can, and often do, draw district boundaries in a manner that will help themselves or their party. As Vox’s&nbsp;Andrew Prokop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vox.com/2014/8/5/17991934/gerrymandering-explained" target="_blank">explains</a>, “Packing as many of the other party’s voters as possible into just a few districts they’ll win overwhelmingly, while ensuring your own party’s voters get smaller but solid advantages in more districts overall, is the classic way to gerrymander. But it can be immensely frustrating to voters, and make them feel their voices aren’t being heard.”&nbsp;(It also leads to some truly&nbsp;bizarre looking district maps.)

Last year, the Supreme Court heard two cases challenging extreme partisan gerrymandering, one brought by North Carolina plaintiffs claiming that the state’s districting plan discriminated against Democrats and the other, brought by Maryland plaintiffs claiming that their state’s plan discriminated against Republicans. In both cases, the plaintiffs alleged that their First Amendment rights had been violated, because the government had penalized them for their political views by reducing their ability to elect the candidates of their choice. The court,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/18pdf/18-422_9ol1.pdf" target="_blank">in an opinion</a>&nbsp;written by&nbsp;Chief Justice John Roberts, dismissed this idea, writing that there were, “no restrictions on speech, association, or any other First Amendment activities in the districting plans at issue. The plaintiffs are free to engage in those activities no matter what the effect of a plan may be on their district.” He went on to say that federal courts were ill-suited to decide whether partisan gerrymandering “goes too far,” leaving reform in the hands of state voters and lawmakers.

The voters of Michigan&nbsp;rose to the challenge and overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative to create an independent redistricting commission made up of four Republicans, four Democrats and five unaffiliated voters. The commission would exclude certain people who might have conflicts of interest, such as elected officials, candidates, party leaders and lobbyists. Despite the bipartisan support for the initiative, the Michigan Republican Party has filed a lawsuit challenging it — ironically, on First Amendment grounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://electionlawblog.org/wp-content/uploads/michigan-complaint.pdf" target="_blank">Their complaint</a>&nbsp;alleges that the eligibility rules for commissioners exclude people “based on their exercise of one or more of their constitutionally protected interests, i.e., freedom of speech (e.g., by the exclusion of candidates for partisan office, right of association (e.g., by the exclusion of members of a governing body of a political party, and/or the right to petition (e.g., by the exclusion of registered lobbyists).”

The case has yet to be decided, but there’s something mind boggling about the idea that a redistricting commission structure that discriminates against those with political party ties would violate the First Amendment while a redistricting plan that discriminates against those with specific political beliefs does not. But all of this serves to highlight the strange relationship between First Amendment rights and voting rights. The First Amendment protects so many activities that are adjacent to voting — spending money to influence voters, expressing political views near polling stations, signing petitions to put initiatives on a ballot — but stops short of voting itself. As prominent civil rights lawyer&nbsp;Armand Derfner&nbsp;<a href="https://ylpr.yale.edu/voting-speech" target="_blank">has written</a>, “It seems like an obvious proposition that a citizen registering to vote or casting a ballot is engaging in free speech, a fundamental right entitled to full protection under the First Amendment… But the current Supreme Court rarely scrutinizes voting regulations as it does other speech regulations.” The right to express your political opinion is incredibly valuable and deserving of the utmost protection. But it’s strange that the same protection doesn’t extend to your ability to actually enact political change.

Lata Nott is chief content officer of the Freedom Forum.&nbsp;Contact her via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lnott@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">lnott@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow her on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/latanott" target="_blank">@LataNott</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1572283561997.png" alt="Lata Nott" />
 <figcaption>Lata Nott</figcaption>
 </figure>By LATA NOTTThe First Amendment protects your right to express yourself freely. While you can do a lot of different things with that freedom, its highest purpose, and the reason that&nbsp;the Constitution’s framers wanted you to have it, is to express yourself politically.All five of the rights named in the First Amendment work in concert to allow you to do just that. Your freedom of religion gives you an array of protections, including the right to follow your own conscience and develop your own values. Your freedom of speech protects your right to express those values, even if that expression is critical of the government. Freedom of the press guarantees your right to uncensored information about the world around you and especially information about what your government is doing. And if you don’t like what the government is doing — if its actions contradict the values you cherish — you have the freedom of petition, which is the freedom to ask for the changes you want and the freedom to assemble a group of like-minded people to give that request some political heft.But what if, after all that, your representatives just won’t listen to you? Theoretically,&nbsp;you have the power to vote them out of office. But that right is much less secure than your right to express your displeasure in the first place. Depending on where you live and what your political views are, the government may be able to render your vote almost meaningless.In most states, state legislatures are responsible for drawing up the state’s congressional and legislative maps. Practically speaking, that means that the politicians in power can, and often do, draw district boundaries in a manner that will help themselves or their party. As Vox’s&nbsp;Andrew Prokop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vox.com/2014/8/5/17991934/gerrymandering-explained" target="_blank">explains</a>, “Packing as many of the other party’s voters as possible into just a few districts they’ll win overwhelmingly, while ensuring your own party’s voters get smaller but solid advantages in more districts overall, is the classic way to gerrymander. But it can be immensely frustrating to voters, and make them feel their voices aren’t being heard.”&nbsp;(It also leads to some truly&nbsp;bizarre looking district maps.)Last year, the Supreme Court heard two cases challenging extreme partisan gerrymandering, one brought by North Carolina plaintiffs claiming that the state’s districting plan discriminated against Democrats and the other, brought by Maryland plaintiffs claiming that their state’s plan discriminated against Republicans. In both cases, the plaintiffs alleged that their First Amendment rights had been violated, because the government had penalized them for their political views by reducing their ability to elect the candidates of their choice. The court,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/18pdf/18-422_9ol1.pdf" target="_blank">in an opinion</a>&nbsp;written by&nbsp;Chief Justice John Roberts, dismissed this idea, writing that there were, “no restrictions on speech, association, or any other First Amendment activities in the districting plans at issue. The plaintiffs are free to engage in those activities no matter what the effect of a plan may be on their district.” He went on to say that federal courts were ill-suited to decide whether partisan gerrymandering “goes too far,” leaving reform in the hands of state voters and lawmakers.The voters of Michigan&nbsp;rose to the challenge and overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative to create an independent redistricting commission made up of four Republicans, four Democrats and five unaffiliated voters. The commission would exclude certain people who might have conflicts of interest, such as elected officials, candidates, party leaders and lobbyists. Despite the bipartisan support for the initiative, the Michigan Republican Party has filed a lawsuit challenging it — ironically, on First Amendment grounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://electionlawblog.org/wp-content/uploads/michigan-complaint.pdf" target="_blank">Their complaint</a>&nbsp;alleges that the eligibility rules for commissioners exclude people “based on their exercise of one or more of their constitutionally protected interests, i.e., freedom of speech (e.g., by the exclusion of candidates for partisan office, right of association (e.g., by the exclusion of members of a governing body of a political party, and/or the right to petition (e.g., by the exclusion of registered lobbyists).”The case has yet to be decided, but there’s something mind boggling about the idea that a redistricting commission structure that discriminates against those with political party ties would violate the First Amendment while a redistricting plan that discriminates against those with specific political beliefs does not. But all of this serves to highlight the strange relationship between First Amendment rights and voting rights. The First Amendment protects so many activities that are adjacent to voting — spending money to influence voters, expressing political views near polling stations, signing petitions to put initiatives on a ballot — but stops short of voting itself. As prominent civil rights lawyer&nbsp;Armand Derfner&nbsp;<a href="https://ylpr.yale.edu/voting-speech" target="_blank">has written</a>, “It seems like an obvious proposition that a citizen registering to vote or casting a ballot is engaging in free speech, a fundamental right entitled to full protection under the First Amendment… But the current Supreme Court rarely scrutinizes voting regulations as it does other speech regulations.” The right to express your political opinion is incredibly valuable and deserving of the utmost protection. But it’s strange that the same protection doesn’t extend to your ability to actually enact political change.Lata Nott is chief content officer of the Freedom Forum.&nbsp;Contact her via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lnott@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">lnott@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow her on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/latanott" target="_blank">@LataNott</a>.

First 5: First Amendment protects activities adjacent to voting

Are you looking for a new challenging career? Would you like to join a growing transit system with a commitment to high quality fixed route, para-transit, and regional transportation services?

OCCK, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Transportation Supervisor for our public transportation services.

This position is responsible for providing first line supervision in the daily operations of the transit system, including the maintenance of safe, efficient service.

Daily duties include managing driver schedules, training new drivers, providing supervision and coaching to drivers, being a back-up driver as needed, and ensuring quality services are provided.

This full-time position has a competitive salary and comes with a complete benefit package that includes:

Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurances;

The person selected for this position will be required to obtain a DOT Medical card upon hire and CDL with Passenger Endorsement within 30 days of hire.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576544829259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Are you looking for a new challenging career? Would you like to join a growing transit system with a commitment to high quality fixed route, para-transit, and regional transportation services?OCCK, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Transportation Supervisor for our public transportation services.This position is responsible for providing first line supervision in the daily operations of the transit system, including the maintenance of safe, efficient service.Daily duties include managing driver schedules, training new drivers, providing supervision and coaching to drivers, being a back-up driver as needed, and ensuring quality services are provided.This full-time position has a competitive salary and comes with a complete benefit package that includes:Monthly cash benefit allowance;Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurances;KPERS;403(b) retirement planThe person selected for this position will be required to obtain a DOT Medical card upon hire and CDL with Passenger Endorsement within 30 days of hire.Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/">www.occk.com</a>.EOEDrug testing required

Weather may be warmer, but water is still cold

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has awarded $8.6 million for the 18&nbsp;projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2021.

“Kansans value safety in all modes of transportation, which is why it is an important element of the new FORWARD transportation program,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “I’m pleased that these projects focus on improving safety for pedestrians and children walking to school.”

KDOT received 32 applications from eligible project sponsors requesting over $22 million in federal funds. The applications for Federal Fiscal Year 2021 projects were received during an open application period from September&nbsp;through October 2019. The next call for projects is expected to be released this summer.

“The high quality of applications for projects this year made the process especially competitive” said Jenny Kramer, KDOT State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator. “Projects tied to local long-term transportation and/or bicycle and pedestrian master plans were especially strong because they demonstrated a commitment over time to promote transportation choices and make their communities bicycle and pedestrian friendly.”

KDOT evaluated each application and made selections based on criteria developed using input from various departments and external partners such as safety and network improvements, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. The total estimated costs for the 18 selected projects are over $13 million. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.&nbsp;

A full list of TA projects that were selected to receive an award include the following.

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has awarded $8.6 million for the 18&nbsp;projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2021.“Kansans value safety in all modes of transportation, which is why it is an important element of the new FORWARD transportation program,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “I’m pleased that these projects focus on improving safety for pedestrians and children walking to school.”KDOT received 32 applications from eligible project sponsors requesting over $22 million in federal funds. The applications for Federal Fiscal Year 2021 projects were received during an open application period from September&nbsp;through October 2019. The next call for projects is expected to be released this summer.“The high quality of applications for projects this year made the process especially competitive” said Jenny Kramer, KDOT State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator. “Projects tied to local long-term transportation and/or bicycle and pedestrian master plans were especially strong because they demonstrated a commitment over time to promote transportation choices and make their communities bicycle and pedestrian friendly.”KDOT evaluated each application and made selections based on criteria developed using input from various departments and external partners such as safety and network improvements, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. The total estimated costs for the 18 selected projects are over $13 million. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.&nbsp;A full list of TA projects that were selected to receive an award include the following.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582951211295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KDOT: Area projects part of Transportation Alternatives program

ABILENE -- Memorial Hospital in Abilene recently was recognized for the way it handles&nbsp; birth registrations.

The hospital recently received a certificate of achievement and a letter from the Kansas State Registrar and Deputy Director Office of Vital Statistics Elizabeth Saadi for “the splendid way in which the staff handles the birth registration process.”&nbsp;

Memorial Hospital’s staff met all of the guidelines for timely reporting of birth certificates, ensuring new parents the opportunity to obtain an official birth certificate and social security card for their child soon after their birth.

“We are very proud of our staff and the quality of care they provide to patients,” Memorial Hospital CEO, Harold Courtois said. “Our Birthing Center staff does an outstanding job, and they deserve to be recognized for all that they do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582950436569.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy Memorial Health System" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Memorial Health System</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE -- Memorial Hospital in Abilene recently was recognized for the way it handles&nbsp; birth registrations.The hospital recently received a certificate of achievement and a letter from the Kansas State Registrar and Deputy Director Office of Vital Statistics Elizabeth Saadi for “the splendid way in which the staff handles the birth registration process.”&nbsp;Memorial Hospital’s staff met all of the guidelines for timely reporting of birth certificates, ensuring new parents the opportunity to obtain an official birth certificate and social security card for their child soon after their birth.“We are very proud of our staff and the quality of care they provide to patients,” Memorial Hospital CEO, Harold Courtois said. “Our Birthing Center staff does an outstanding job, and they deserve to be recognized for all that they do.”

Abilene hospital recognized for birth registration efforts

OCCK Transportation's transit data for the 81 Connection regional fixed route service is now included in Google Maps and Apple Maps.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to OCCK Transportation, this will allow riders to plan trips and get directions using the organization's transit service from Belleville to Salina easily with a smart phone or computer.

OCCK Transportation is one of only a handful of transit agencies in Kansas to join Google Maps and Apple Maps with transit data.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We hope our participation will encourage current ridership and connect both 81 Connection and CityGo to new active riders," the organization noted.

By showing the “Public Transit” link in every search for driving directions, Google Maps and Apple Maps is helping to promote public transit by informing drivers of the possible transit services they could utilize.&nbsp;

The Google Maps service can be used on computers by going to the Google Maps website or on mobile phones and devices that use the Google Maps app.

The Apple Maps service can be used on Apple mobile phones and devices that use the Apple Maps app.

The 81 Connection information is also coordinated with CityGo, so passengers can completely get to their destination,&nbsp;OCCK Transportation noted.

For more information about CityGo, 81 Connection and OCCK Transportation, visit <a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

OCCK Transportation's transit data for the 81 Connection regional fixed route service is now included in Google Maps and Apple Maps.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to OCCK Transportation, this will allow riders to plan trips and get directions using the organization's transit service from Belleville to Salina easily with a smart phone or computer.OCCK Transportation is one of only a handful of transit agencies in Kansas to join Google Maps and Apple Maps with transit data.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We hope our participation will encourage current ridership and connect both 81 Connection and CityGo to new active riders," the organization noted.By showing the “Public Transit” link in every search for driving directions, Google Maps and Apple Maps is helping to promote public transit by informing drivers of the possible transit services they could utilize.&nbsp;The Google Maps service can be used on computers by going to the Google Maps website or on mobile phones and devices that use the Google Maps app.The Apple Maps service can be used on Apple mobile phones and devices that use the Apple Maps app.The 81 Connection information is also coordinated with CityGo, so passengers can completely get to their destination,&nbsp;OCCK Transportation noted.For more information about CityGo, 81 Connection and OCCK Transportation, visit <a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

81 Connection routes now on Google Transit, Apple Maps

A red flag warning has been issued for counties in our area.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Topeka has issued a red flag warning from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.

WIND: South winds 15 to 25 MPH with some gusts to 40 mph.

IMPACTS: Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.   Outdoor burning is not recommended.

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

A red flag warning has been issued for counties in our area.The National Weather Service (NWS) in Topeka has issued a red flag warning from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyDickinson CountyWIND: South winds 15 to 25 MPH with some gusts to 40 mph.HUMIDITY: Around 20 percent.IMPACTS: Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Clay, Dickinson counties under red flag warning Saturday

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

The term "disc golf" prompts visions of colorful discs flying above lush green grass and between leafy trees. So what could get a group of disc golfers out on a cold February day to play in a snow-covered park?

Sixty-one disc golfers gathered in Salina's snowy Oakdale Park on Feb. 15 for a Central Kansas Disc Golf Club-sponsored fundraiser for the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank.

On Friday, members of the group presented Michael Chambers, executive director of the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank, with a check for $1,200 and a donation of food.

Richard Holmgren, a member of the Central Kansas Disc Golf Club, told Salina Post that having the fundraiser in Oakdale Park greatly boosted the amount the group was able to donate to the food bank.

Holmgren explained that for years Kansas Disc Golf Association affiliates hosted tournaments that orginally were known as "Ice Bowls" because they were established to keep disc golfers busy during the winter.  

"With the success of the Ice Bowl tournaments across Kansas, they’ve since turned into 100 percent fundraisers with proceeds going to food banks all across Kansas," Holmgren said. 

"What made this year's Salina Food Drive tournament unique is the fact the city let us set up a course in Oakdale Park. Disc golfers have been eyeing that park for years for its potential in creating a unique course. Of course, the park is the busiest park in the city so the idea of creating a permanent course there will never come to fruition. Having the tournament there created a bigger draw, thus allowing us to present a much bigger check than we have in past years; more than double our average amount," Holmgren explained.

After playing a round, participants played a doubles best disc scramble. 

"The person who had the best round was paired with the person who had the worst round. The person who had the second best round was paired with the person who had the second worst round, and so on and so forth. Kind of a fun format to end the day," Holmgren said. 

According to Holmgren, more than 50 people were members of the Central Kansas Disc Golf Club during the past season. 

"We host three leagues each week during the season: a doubles league on Tuesday nights, a singles handicap league on Thursday nights, and a doubles league on Sunday afternoons. We average between 20-30 players each Tuesday and Thursday," he said.

Holmgren noted that persons of all skill levels are welcome to join the club.

"There’s no better way to learn more about the sport and improve your technique than to attend a league," he said.

More information about the organization is available by joining the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/244854858974613/">Central Kansas Disc Golf Club</a> Facebook group.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582947687173.jpeg" alt="Some of the fundraiser participants presented Michael Chambers, executive director&nbsp; of the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank, at center, with a check and a food donation on Friday. Photos courtesy Richard Holmgren" />
 <figcaption>Some of the fundraiser participants presented Michael Chambers, executive director&nbsp; of the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank, at center, with a check and a food donation on Friday. Photos courtesy Richard Holmgren</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostThe term "disc golf" prompts visions of colorful discs flying above lush green grass and between leafy trees. So what could get a group of disc golfers out on a cold February day to play in a snow-covered park?Simple. Helping others.Sixty-one disc golfers gathered in Salina's snowy Oakdale Park on Feb. 15 for a Central Kansas Disc Golf Club-sponsored fundraiser for the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582948123242.jpeg" alt="Participants in the&nbsp;Central Kansas Disc Golf Club-sponsored fundraiser gathered in Oakdale Park on Feb. 15." />
 <figcaption>Participants in the&nbsp;Central Kansas Disc Golf Club-sponsored fundraiser gathered in Oakdale Park on Feb. 15.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Friday, members of the group presented Michael Chambers, executive director of the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank, with a check for $1,200 and a donation of food.Richard Holmgren, a member of the Central Kansas Disc Golf Club, told Salina Post that having the fundraiser in Oakdale Park greatly boosted the amount the group was able to donate to the food bank.Holmgren explained that for years Kansas Disc Golf Association affiliates hosted tournaments that orginally were known as "Ice Bowls" because they were established to keep disc golfers busy during the winter. "With the success of the Ice Bowl tournaments across Kansas, they’ve since turned into 100 percent fundraisers with proceeds going to food banks all across Kansas," Holmgren said. "What made this year's Salina Food Drive tournament unique is the fact the city let us set up a course in Oakdale Park. Disc golfers have been eyeing that park for years for its potential in creating a unique course. Of course, the park is the busiest park in the city so the idea of creating a permanent course there will never come to fruition. Having the tournament there created a bigger draw, thus allowing us to present a much bigger check than we have in past years; more than double our average amount," Holmgren explained.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582948624397.jpeg" alt="A little snow didn't stop this group of disc golfers." />
 <figcaption>A little snow didn't stop this group of disc golfers.</figcaption>
 </figure>After playing a round, participants played a doubles best disc scramble. "The person who had the best round was paired with the person who had the worst round. The person who had the second best round was paired with the person who had the second worst round, and so on and so forth. Kind of a fun format to end the day," Holmgren said. According to Holmgren, more than 50 people were members of the Central Kansas Disc Golf Club during the past season. "We host three leagues each week during the season: a doubles league on Tuesday nights, a singles handicap league on Thursday nights, and a doubles league on Sunday afternoons. We average between 20-30 players each Tuesday and Thursday," he said.Holmgren noted that persons of all skill levels are welcome to join the club."There’s no better way to learn more about the sport and improve your technique than to attend a league," he said.More information about the organization is available by joining the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/244854858974613/">Central Kansas Disc Golf Club</a> Facebook group.

Disc golfers raise $1,200 for local food bank

Today is Saturday, Feb. 29, the 60th day of 2020. There are 306 days left in the year.

On Feb. 29, 1936, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a second Neutrality Act as he appealed to American businesses not to increase exports to belligerents.

In 1504, Christopher Columbus, stranded in Jamaica during his fourth voyage to the West, used a correctly predicted lunar eclipse to frighten hostile natives into providing food for his crew.

In 1796, President George Washington proclaimed Jay's Treaty, which settled some outstanding differences with Britain, in effect.

In 1892, the United States and Britain agreed to submit to arbitration their dispute over seal-hunting rights in the Bering Sea. (A commission later ruled in favor of Britain.)

In 1904, bandleader Jimmy Dorsey was born in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania.

In 1916, singer, actress and TV personality Dinah Shore was born Frances Rose Shore in Winchester, Tennessee. (Shore, who claimed March 1, 1917 as her birthdate, died in 1994 just days before she would have turned 78.)

In 1940, "Gone with the Wind" won eight Academy Awards, including best picture of 1939; Hattie McDaniel won for best supporting actress, the first black performer so honored.

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower announced he would seek a second term of office. Serial killer Aileen Wuornos was born in Rochester, Michigan (she was executed by the state of Florida in 2002).

In 1960, the first Playboy Club, featuring waitresses clad in "bunny" outfits, opened in Chicago. Serial killer Richard Ramirez was born in El Paso, Texas (he died in 2013 while awaiting execution in California).

In 1968, at the Grammy Awards, the 5th Dimension's "Up, Up and Away" won record of the year for 1967, while album of the year honors went to The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."

In 1980, former Israeli foreign minister Yigal Allon, who had played an important role in the Jewish state's fight for independence, died at age 61.

In 1984, Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau announced he was stepping down after more than 15 combined years in power.

In 1996, Daniel Green was convicted in Lumberton, North Carolina, of murdering James R. Jordan, the father of basketball star Michael Jordan, during a 1993 roadside holdup. (Green and an accomplice, Larry Martin Demery, were sentenced to life in prison.) A Peruvian Boeing 737 crashed on approach to Arequipa, killing all 123 people on board.

Twelve years ago (2008): Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama accused rival Hillary Rodham Clinton of trying to "play on people's fears to scare up votes" with a TV ad showing sleeping children and asking who would be more qualified to answer a national security emergency call at 3 a.m.

Eight years ago (2012): Violent weather packing tornadoes continued to ravage the Midwest and South, resulting in some 15 deaths. Davy Jones, 66, the heartthrob singer who helped propel the made-for-TV rock band The Monkees to the top of the pop charts, died in Stuart, Florida.

Four years ago (2016): On the eve of the Super Tuesday primaries, some leading Republicans voiced renewed concerns about Donald Trump's comments and behavior, including his refusal to immediately disavow the support of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. (Trump would score commanding wins in seven of the 11 Super Tuesday contests.) A federal judge in New York ruled that the Justice Department could not force Apple to provide the FBI with access to locked iPhone data in a routine drug case. Justice Clarence Thomas broke 10 years of courtroom silence and posed questions during a Supreme Court oral argument dealing with gun rights, provoking gasps from the audience. President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military honor, to Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Edward Byers Jr., a Navy SEAL who participated in the rescue of an American hostage in Afghanistan.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Joss Ackland is 92. Former astronaut Jack Lousma is 84. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople is 80. Motivational speaker Tony Robbins is 60. Legal affairs blogger Eugene Volokh is 52. Actor Antonio Sabato Jr. is 48. Poet, musician and hip-hop artist Saul Williams is 48. Rapper Ja Rule is 44. Singer-musician Mark Foster (Foster the People) is 36. Former NHL goaltender Cam Ward is 36.

Thought for Today: "Well, it has happened again. The Earth has circled four times around the sun, astronomers have designated this a leap year and anxious bachelors won't answer their telephones until midnight." — David O'Reilly, American journalist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Saturday, Feb. 29, the 60th day of 2020. There are 306 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 29, 1936, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a second Neutrality Act as he appealed to American businesses not to increase exports to belligerents.On this date:In 1504, Christopher Columbus, stranded in Jamaica during his fourth voyage to the West, used a correctly predicted lunar eclipse to frighten hostile natives into providing food for his crew.In 1796, President George Washington proclaimed Jay's Treaty, which settled some outstanding differences with Britain, in effect.In 1892, the United States and Britain agreed to submit to arbitration their dispute over seal-hunting rights in the Bering Sea. (A commission later ruled in favor of Britain.)In 1904, bandleader Jimmy Dorsey was born in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania.In 1916, singer, actress and TV personality Dinah Shore was born Frances Rose Shore in Winchester, Tennessee. (Shore, who claimed March 1, 1917 as her birthdate, died in 1994 just days before she would have turned 78.)In 1940, "Gone with the Wind" won eight Academy Awards, including best picture of 1939; Hattie McDaniel won for best supporting actress, the first black performer so honored.In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower announced he would seek a second term of office. Serial killer Aileen Wuornos was born in Rochester, Michigan (she was executed by the state of Florida in 2002).In 1960, the first Playboy Club, featuring waitresses clad in "bunny" outfits, opened in Chicago. Serial killer Richard Ramirez was born in El Paso, Texas (he died in 2013 while awaiting execution in California).In 1968, at the Grammy Awards, the 5th Dimension's "Up, Up and Away" won record of the year for 1967, while album of the year honors went to The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."In 1980, former Israeli foreign minister Yigal Allon, who had played an important role in the Jewish state's fight for independence, died at age 61.In 1984, Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau announced he was stepping down after more than 15 combined years in power.In 1996, Daniel Green was convicted in Lumberton, North Carolina, of murdering James R. Jordan, the father of basketball star Michael Jordan, during a 1993 roadside holdup. (Green and an accomplice, Larry Martin Demery, were sentenced to life in prison.) A Peruvian Boeing 737 crashed on approach to Arequipa, killing all 123 people on board.Twelve years ago (2008): Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama accused rival Hillary Rodham Clinton of trying to "play on people's fears to scare up votes" with a TV ad showing sleeping children and asking who would be more qualified to answer a national security emergency call at 3 a.m.Eight years ago (2012): Violent weather packing tornadoes continued to ravage the Midwest and South, resulting in some 15 deaths. Davy Jones, 66, the heartthrob singer who helped propel the made-for-TV rock band The Monkees to the top of the pop charts, died in Stuart, Florida.Four years ago (2016): On the eve of the Super Tuesday primaries, some leading Republicans voiced renewed concerns about Donald Trump's comments and behavior, including his refusal to immediately disavow the support of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. (Trump would score commanding wins in seven of the 11 Super Tuesday contests.) A federal judge in New York ruled that the Justice Department could not force Apple to provide the FBI with access to locked iPhone data in a routine drug case. Justice Clarence Thomas broke 10 years of courtroom silence and posed questions during a Supreme Court oral argument dealing with gun rights, provoking gasps from the audience. President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military honor, to Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Edward Byers Jr., a Navy SEAL who participated in the rescue of an American hostage in Afghanistan.Today's Birthdays: Actor Joss Ackland is 92. Former astronaut Jack Lousma is 84. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople is 80. Motivational speaker Tony Robbins is 60. Legal affairs blogger Eugene Volokh is 52. Actor Antonio Sabato Jr. is 48. Poet, musician and hip-hop artist Saul Williams is 48. Rapper Ja Rule is 44. Singer-musician Mark Foster (Foster the People) is 36. Former NHL goaltender Cam Ward is 36.Thought for Today: "Well, it has happened again. The Earth has circled four times around the sun, astronomers have designated this a leap year and anxious bachelors won't answer their telephones until midnight." — David O'Reilly, American journalist.Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Feb. 29

By CORINNE BOYER <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/kansas-suicide-rates-are-climbing-especially-states-most-rural-areas">Kansas News Service</a>

GARDEN CITY, Kansas — The number of suicides in northwest Kansas increased by more than half in recent years.

Twenty counties in the region saw suicides climb by 57% from 2014 through 2018.

That jump comes in a part of the state where people already die by suicide at a higher rate than in the rest of Kansas.

In
 Kansas “frontier” counties — places with fewer than six people per 
square mile — about 26 people a year out of every 100,000 die by 
suicide. Statewide, Kansas sees fewer than 18 suicides per 100,000 
people, according to a <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/14821/ib1809_suicide_final.pdf">report</a> by the Kansas Health Institute

And
 overall, Kansas had 555 suicides in 2018, up 2% from the previous year.
 The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said the <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/phi/as/2018/2018_Annual_Summary.pdf">2018</a> suicide rate was the highest in 20 years.

Nationally, suicide has been on the rise since 1999.

“Suicidologists
 have indicated that a combination of factors have increased the risk of
 suicide,” said Andy Brown, commissioner of behavioral health services 
with Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services. They include, 
he said, “growing isolation among Americans, greater economic pressures,
 and increases in untreated mental illness.”

Brown said access to firearms and opioids adds to the chances of suicide.

“Suicide
 risk is highest when people feel like they are a burden on others, feel
 outcast or isolated from others, and have ready access to lethal 
means,” he said.

Mental health professionals say rural parts of 
Kansas are home to several stress factors. They’re certainly 
geographically isolated. And both the population and the economy of much
 of rural Kansas have been in decline for generations.

“Social 
isolation is a concern, particularly in very rural areas of Kansas,” 
said Kaley Conner, marketing coordinator with High Plains Mental Health 
Center in Hays, Kansas. “Statistically, the use of alcohol or other 
substances also can increase suicide risk, as can chronic physical 
illness or pain and mental illness.”

Recent years have seen ups 
and downs in farming, which still plays a large role in the western 
Kansas economy. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
retracted a report in 2018 suggesting suicide is higher among farmers 
than any other occupation. But the CDC still concludes that farmers 
suffer a <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2018/p1115-Suicide-american-workers.html">higher suicide rate</a> than most workers.&nbsp;

JoEllyn
 Argabright, a family and consumer science specialist with Kansas State 
University research and extension in Colby, Kansas, is part of a 
third-generation farming family in Rawlins County. She said long hours —
 her husband works an average of 100 hours a week — combined with 
financial stress is burdensome for farmers.

“Farming is a very 
dangerous operation,” she said. “You not only face financial challenges,
 constraints on time and finances, but farmers are typically expected to
 be specialists across the board.”

If you need help, call the High Plains crisis line (800) 432-0333 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.

Corinne Boyer covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://kannews.slack.com/team/UFFCS11T5">@Corinne</a>_boyer or email cboyer@hppr.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582664150546.jpeg" alt=" Rural Kansas has a higher suicide rate than anywhere else in the state. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Rural Kansas has a higher suicide rate than anywhere else in the state. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By CORINNE BOYER <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/kansas-suicide-rates-are-climbing-especially-states-most-rural-areas">Kansas News Service</a>GARDEN CITY, Kansas — The number of suicides in northwest Kansas increased by more than half in recent years.Twenty counties in the region saw suicides climb by 57% from 2014 through 2018.That jump comes in a part of the state where people already die by suicide at a higher rate than in the rest of Kansas.In
 Kansas “frontier” counties — places with fewer than six people per 
square mile — about 26 people a year out of every 100,000 die by 
suicide. Statewide, Kansas sees fewer than 18 suicides per 100,000 
people, according to a <a href="https://www.khi.org/assets/uploads/news/14821/ib1809_suicide_final.pdf">report</a> by the Kansas Health InstituteAnd
 overall, Kansas had 555 suicides in 2018, up 2% from the previous year.
 The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said the <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/phi/as/2018/2018_Annual_Summary.pdf">2018</a> suicide rate was the highest in 20 years.Nationally, suicide has been on the rise since 1999.“Suicidologists
 have indicated that a combination of factors have increased the risk of
 suicide,” said Andy Brown, commissioner of behavioral health services 
with Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services. They include, 
he said, “growing isolation among Americans, greater economic pressures,
 and increases in untreated mental illness.”Brown said access to firearms and opioids adds to the chances of suicide.“Suicide
 risk is highest when people feel like they are a burden on others, feel
 outcast or isolated from others, and have ready access to lethal 
means,” he said.Mental health professionals say rural parts of 
Kansas are home to several stress factors. They’re certainly 
geographically isolated. And both the population and the economy of much
 of rural Kansas have been in decline for generations.“Social 
isolation is a concern, particularly in very rural areas of Kansas,” 
said Kaley Conner, marketing coordinator with High Plains Mental Health 
Center in Hays, Kansas. “Statistically, the use of alcohol or other 
substances also can increase suicide risk, as can chronic physical 
illness or pain and mental illness.”Recent years have seen ups 
and downs in farming, which still plays a large role in the western 
Kansas economy. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
retracted a report in 2018 suggesting suicide is higher among farmers 
than any other occupation. But the CDC still concludes that farmers 
suffer a <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2018/p1115-Suicide-american-workers.html">higher suicide rate</a> than most workers.&nbsp;JoEllyn
 Argabright, a family and consumer science specialist with Kansas State 
University research and extension in Colby, Kansas, is part of a 
third-generation farming family in Rawlins County. She said long hours —
 her husband works an average of 100 hours a week — combined with 
financial stress is burdensome for farmers.“Farming is a very 
dangerous operation,” she said. “You not only face financial challenges,
 constraints on time and finances, but farmers are typically expected to
 be specialists across the board.”If you need help, call the High Plains crisis line (800) 432-0333 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.Corinne Boyer covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://kannews.slack.com/team/UFFCS11T5">@Corinne</a>_boyer or email cboyer@hppr.org.

Kan. suicide rates climbing, especially in state's most rural areas 

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Recent obituaries

Lott Implement, an AGCO dealer in Minneapolis, Kan., is looking for a service technician. The duties include repairing combines, tractors and hay equipment.

Lott Implement is looking for someone dependable and motivated, who has their own tools and is able to get along well with others.

Immediate opening with pay based on experience. Contact Jeff at 785-392-3110 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jlott2522@att.net">jlott2522@att.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582317675250.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lott Implement, an AGCO dealer in Minneapolis, Kan., is looking for a service technician. The duties include repairing combines, tractors and hay equipment.Lott Implement is looking for someone dependable and motivated, who has their own tools and is able to get along well with others.Immediate opening with pay based on experience. Contact Jeff at 785-392-3110 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jlott2522@att.net">jlott2522@att.net</a>.

Salina Downtown, Inc., reveals new logo

On Monday, Feb. 24, 2020, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 100 block of South Highland Avenue in the City of Assaria for a report of a stolen Mutual Telephone Company van. 

The work van was stolen sometime between the hours of 3:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Unknown suspect(s) abandoned the van several miles away and it was recovered by law enforcement. Tools, equipment, and a Dell Laptop were taken from the van. Total loss &amp; damage is estimated to be in excess of $2,000.

If you have any information concerning who attempted to commit this crime, 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 Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1000 and you are not required to give your name.

On Monday, Feb. 24, 2020, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 100 block of South Highland Avenue in the City of Assaria for a report of a stolen Mutual Telephone Company van. The work van was stolen sometime between the hours of 3:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Unknown suspect(s) abandoned the van several miles away and it was recovered by law enforcement. Tools, equipment, and a Dell Laptop were taken from the van. Total loss &amp; damage is estimated to be in excess of $2,000.If you have any information concerning who attempted to commit this crime, 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 Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1000 and you are not required to give your name.

Crimestoppers seeks tips about work van theft

By MICHAEL SCHNEIDER McPherson College President

Jake Curtis and his twin brother, Jared, had big dreams of college—coupled with fears those dreams could be crippled by years of student debt. For the Curtis family, the financial burden of having four kids in college within a five-year span could have derailed the twins’ plans—until they came to McPherson College to participate in the Student Debt Project. As sophomores this year, Jake and Jared are balancing hectic class and co-curricular schedules with part-time work. They haven’t taken out any student loans—and don’t plan to—because each expects to graduate with zero student debt.

College-ready families I talk with have serious angst about student loan debt. They’re worried about paying for college, and worried they—or their kids—will still be paying off that debt years after the diploma is earned. That’s why we’ve made debt reduction an overarching mission for McPherson College. We’ve found a way to make college affordable by combining financial literacy education, jobs, mentorships and matching dollars to create a track for students to graduate with little or no debt.

The need couldn’t be more urgent. Nationwide, student loan debt is at an all-time high of nearly $1.6 trillion—second only to mortgage debt. Some 371,000 Kansans collectively owe more than $11.5 billion in federal student loans. In fact, among all Kansas graduates in the class of 2018, nearly 60 percent of them graduated with debt.

With job placement assistance provided by the college, those in our Student Debt Project are working part-time jobs and paying down their debt before they graduate. McPherson College matches a percentage of every dollar students contribute to their education.

Dedicated community mentors support our students as they balance work, education, and life during their college years. Every student manages a custom budget and works through paying for their education while they are in school by honing their financial management skills. The Student Debt Project is instilling a sense of financial independence that will impact a student for life.

Freshman Zaya Carson of Des Moines hopes to become a doctor and genetic research scientist. She knows it means years of education ahead of her—and could mean staggering student debt. Zaya applied to much larger schools before deciding on McPherson College. She recognized the monthly mentoring provided personalized support she wouldn’t receive at a larger school. For Zaya, the program has been far more than a debt-free way to earn her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. It’s also been a significant confidence builder as she prepares to start her career in a very competitive job market.

There’s a myth that students who attend private colleges accrue more debt than their public university peers. But it’s not true nationally, and especially not true here in Kansas. In fact, McPherson College students graduate with no more debt than students from Kansas’ public universities. And that average debt is less than the price of a Honda Accord.

Further, over 80 percent of McPherson College students finish their degree in four years, compared to only 66 percent of Kansas’ public university students. That means our graduates are already out in the workforce earning a living, while their friends at public universities are still working on their degrees.

Kylee Martin of Goodland was one of the first to participate in the Student Debt Project. She had looked at larger schools and had qualified for more than $40,000 in student loans. Though tempted to take the money, she didn’t want to be saddled with that debt. She had her sights set on owning a home and one day starting her own business.

Kylee put herself on the debt-free track to achieve her goals. In May, she’ll complete her bachelor’s degree—and graduate with significantly less student debt than she expected. And by applying the principles she learned and practiced while in the Student Debt Project, Kylee is on track to achieving her future goals.

Without the burden of student debt, I can’t wait to see what Kylee — and the rest of our Student Debt Project graduates — will accomplish next.

As the president of a small college that competes with state-run and for-profit schools, I’m often asked the question: Should small colleges exist? My answer is, absolutely! The Student Debt Project is just one of the many reasons why.

McPherson College developed the Student Debt Project because it’s good for families, good for Kansas, and good for the nation’s economy. If colleges really want to prepare students to achieve their best lives after graduation, they should start by putting students on the right track for future financial independence.

For McPherson College, that starts by helping students graduate with little-to-zero student debt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581971447580.jpeg" alt="President Michael Schneider. Photo courtesy McPherson College" />
 <figcaption>President Michael Schneider. Photo courtesy McPherson College</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL SCHNEIDER McPherson College PresidentJake Curtis and his twin brother, Jared, had big dreams of college—coupled with fears those dreams could be crippled by years of student debt. For the Curtis family, the financial burden of having four kids in college within a five-year span could have derailed the twins’ plans—until they came to McPherson College to participate in the Student Debt Project. As sophomores this year, Jake and Jared are balancing hectic class and co-curricular schedules with part-time work. They haven’t taken out any student loans—and don’t plan to—because each expects to graduate with zero student debt.College-ready families I talk with have serious angst about student loan debt. They’re worried about paying for college, and worried they—or their kids—will still be paying off that debt years after the diploma is earned. That’s why we’ve made debt reduction an overarching mission for McPherson College. We’ve found a way to make college affordable by combining financial literacy education, jobs, mentorships and matching dollars to create a track for students to graduate with little or no debt.The need couldn’t be more urgent. Nationwide, student loan debt is at an all-time high of nearly $1.6 trillion—second only to mortgage debt. Some 371,000 Kansans collectively owe more than $11.5 billion in federal student loans. In fact, among all Kansas graduates in the class of 2018, nearly 60 percent of them graduated with debt.But it doesn’t have to be that way.Debt-free independenceWith job placement assistance provided by the college, those in our Student Debt Project are working part-time jobs and paying down their debt before they graduate. McPherson College matches a percentage of every dollar students contribute to their education.Dedicated community mentors support our students as they balance work, education, and life during their college years. Every student manages a custom budget and works through paying for their education while they are in school by honing their financial management skills. The Student Debt Project is instilling a sense of financial independence that will impact a student for life.Freshman Zaya Carson of Des Moines hopes to become a doctor and genetic research scientist. She knows it means years of education ahead of her—and could mean staggering student debt. Zaya applied to much larger schools before deciding on McPherson College. She recognized the monthly mentoring provided personalized support she wouldn’t receive at a larger school. For Zaya, the program has been far more than a debt-free way to earn her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. It’s also been a significant confidence builder as she prepares to start her career in a very competitive job market.The future trackThere’s a myth that students who attend private colleges accrue more debt than their public university peers. But it’s not true nationally, and especially not true here in Kansas. In fact, McPherson College students graduate with no more debt than students from Kansas’ public universities. And that average debt is less than the price of a Honda Accord.Further, over 80 percent of McPherson College students finish their degree in four years, compared to only 66 percent of Kansas’ public university students. That means our graduates are already out in the workforce earning a living, while their friends at public universities are still working on their degrees.Kylee Martin of Goodland was one of the first to participate in the Student Debt Project. She had looked at larger schools and had qualified for more than $40,000 in student loans. Though tempted to take the money, she didn’t want to be saddled with that debt. She had her sights set on owning a home and one day starting her own business.Kylee put herself on the debt-free track to achieve her goals. In May, she’ll complete her bachelor’s degree—and graduate with significantly less student debt than she expected. And by applying the principles she learned and practiced while in the Student Debt Project, Kylee is on track to achieving her future goals.Without the burden of student debt, I can’t wait to see what Kylee — and the rest of our Student Debt Project graduates — will accomplish next.As the president of a small college that competes with state-run and for-profit schools, I’m often asked the question: Should small colleges exist? My answer is, absolutely! The Student Debt Project is just one of the many reasons why.McPherson College developed the Student Debt Project because it’s good for families, good for Kansas, and good for the nation’s economy. If colleges really want to prepare students to achieve their best lives after graduation, they should start by putting students on the right track for future financial independence.For McPherson College, that starts by helping students graduate with little-to-zero student debt.

OPINION: Graduating with zero debt impacts your track for life

The Salina Parks &amp; Recreation Department is seeking proposals for a person, company, or organization to provide concessions at the East Crawford Recreational Area and Magnolia Soccer Complex. 

Concessions would be provided in the existing concession space or from a food truck vendor.

This person, club, or organization under contract with the Salina Parks &amp; Recreation Department would operate and provide all concessions for all games played at the East Crawford Recreation Area and Magnolia Soccer Complex. Dates of operation would run from early March to late October. 

A comprehensive schedule of youth and adult baseball, softball and soccer games and tournaments is available through the Parks and Recreation Department.

For further information, contact Travis Scheele in person at the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 North Fifth Street, by phone at (785) 309-5769, or by email at <a href="mailto:travis.scheele@salina.org">travis.scheele@salina.org</a>.

The deadline to respond is March 13, 2020. 

The Salina Parks &amp; Recreation Department is seeking proposals for a person, company, or organization to provide concessions at the East Crawford Recreational Area and Magnolia Soccer Complex. Concessions would be provided in the existing concession space or from a food truck vendor.This person, club, or organization under contract with the Salina Parks &amp; Recreation Department would operate and provide all concessions for all games played at the East Crawford Recreation Area and Magnolia Soccer Complex. Dates of operation would run from early March to late October. A comprehensive schedule of youth and adult baseball, softball and soccer games and tournaments is available through the Parks and Recreation Department.For further information, contact Travis Scheele in person at the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 North Fifth Street, by phone at (785) 309-5769, or by email at <a href="mailto:travis.scheele@salina.org">travis.scheele@salina.org</a>.The deadline to respond is March 13, 2020.

Parks & Rec seeks proposals for concessions at athletic events 

OTTAWA COUNTY -- The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will resume work on the bridge located on U.S. 81 over the Kyle Railroad near Minneapolis.

Work on the bridge, located approximately 12 miles north of Interstate 70, is scheduled to resume on March 11.

Construction will take place during daylight hours and traffic will be reduced to one 15-foot lane with a reduced speed through the work zone. Drivers should expect minor delays, not exceeding five minutes.

A.M. Cohron of Atlantic, Iowa, is the prime contractor on the $4.2 million project and has scheduled this project to be completed by January 2021, weather permitting.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone.&nbsp; To stay aware of all road construction projects across Kansas go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

OTTAWA COUNTY -- The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will resume work on the bridge located on U.S. 81 over the Kyle Railroad near Minneapolis.Work on the bridge, located approximately 12 miles north of Interstate 70, is scheduled to resume on March 11.Construction will take place during daylight hours and traffic will be reduced to one 15-foot lane with a reduced speed through the work zone. Drivers should expect minor delays, not exceeding five minutes.A.M. Cohron of Atlantic, Iowa, is the prime contractor on the $4.2 million project and has scheduled this project to be completed by January 2021, weather permitting.KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone.&nbsp; To stay aware of all road construction projects across Kansas go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

Bridge repair in Ottawa County resumes March 11

Police are looking for a suspect who fled from a traffic stop and nearly struck another moving vehicle on the street Thursday night.

According to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester, an off-duty officer saw a 1998 Toyota T100 pickup driving southbound with no tail lights on in the 400 block of North Ohio and notified dispatch personnel, who sent a patrol officer to the area. The patrol officer initiated a traffic stop in the 1000 block of East Ash Street, but the driver continued westbound on East Ash Street, Forrester said. 

A chase ensued on multiple streets in the neighborhood, but was terminated when the pickup almost struck another vehicle driving on East Elm Street, Forrester said. The pickup was last seen by the pursuing officer turning west onto East Iron Avenue, he said.

A short while later, an officer located the unoccupied pickup halfway in the street and halfway in a yard in the 900 block of Gypsum, Forrester said. The pickup was still running and the driver's door was open, he added.

Forrester said the registered owner of the pickup is believed to have been the driver.

Police are looking for a suspect who fled from a traffic stop and nearly struck another moving vehicle on the street Thursday night.According to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester, an off-duty officer saw a 1998 Toyota T100 pickup driving southbound with no tail lights on in the 400 block of North Ohio and notified dispatch personnel, who sent a patrol officer to the area. The patrol officer initiated a traffic stop in the 1000 block of East Ash Street, but the driver continued westbound on East Ash Street, Forrester said. A chase ensued on multiple streets in the neighborhood, but was terminated when the pickup almost struck another vehicle driving on East Elm Street, Forrester said. The pickup was last seen by the pursuing officer turning west onto East Iron Avenue, he said.A short while later, an officer located the unoccupied pickup halfway in the street and halfway in a yard in the 900 block of Gypsum, Forrester said. The pickup was still running and the driver's door was open, he added.Forrester said the registered owner of the pickup is believed to have been the driver.

Police seek suspect who fled from traffic stop, nearly hit another vehicle

Riverview Estates in Marquette is now hiring for career-minded people who care about their jobs. We are now hiring for a full-time LPN flex shift day/evening, $3,000 sign-on bonus, and 2 full-time evening shift CNAs.

Please apply in person at&nbsp;202 S. Washington in Marquette, or&nbsp;download an application at&nbsp;<a href="http://riverviewestatesks.com/" target="_blank">riverviewestatesks.com</a>. Call 785-546-2211 to inquire!

Riverview Estates in Marquette, Where we care for your family like one of our family. Join our team today!&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580934025735.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Riverview Estates in Marquette is now hiring for career-minded people who care about their jobs. We are now hiring for a full-time LPN flex shift day/evening, $3,000 sign-on bonus, and 2 full-time evening shift CNAs.Please apply in person at&nbsp;202 S. Washington in Marquette, or&nbsp;download an application at&nbsp;<a href="http://riverviewestatesks.com/" target="_blank">riverviewestatesks.com</a>. Call 785-546-2211 to inquire!Riverview Estates in Marquette, Where we care for your family like one of our family. Join our team today!&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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