K-State Research and Extension is offering two Medicare Basics: New to Medicare workshops this spring. 

Learn the basics of Medicare, including eligibility, how and when to apply, costs, what is covered by the various parts, and how to fill the gaps. Programs available to assist low-income individuals will also be discussed. 

Anyone interested in learning more about the Medicare maze would benefit from the program, particularly those who are nearing age 65 or who help aging parents with insurance and financial matters.

These free, educational programs will be held March 17 from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Welcome Center on the K-State Polytechnic campus (building #11 on the <a href="https://polytechnic.k-state.edu/documents/about/CampusMap.pdf">campus map</a>, and March 21 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Prescott Room of the Salina Public Library,&nbsp; 301 West Elm Street. The program is presented by extension educator Deb Wood, CFP®&nbsp;who is a SHICK counselor.&nbsp;

Space is limited. Register for this workshop by calling 785-309-5850.

K-State Research and Extension is offering two Medicare Basics: New to Medicare workshops this spring. Learn the basics of Medicare, including eligibility, how and when to apply, costs, what is covered by the various parts, and how to fill the gaps. Programs available to assist low-income individuals will also be discussed. Anyone interested in learning more about the Medicare maze would benefit from the program, particularly those who are nearing age 65 or who help aging parents with insurance and financial matters.These free, educational programs will be held March 17 from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Welcome Center on the K-State Polytechnic campus (building #11 on the <a href="https://polytechnic.k-state.edu/documents/about/CampusMap.pdf">campus map</a>, and March 21 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Prescott Room of the Salina Public Library,&nbsp; 301 West Elm Street. The program is presented by extension educator Deb Wood, CFP®&nbsp;who is a SHICK counselor.&nbsp;Space is limited. Register for this workshop by calling 785-309-5850.

Medicare Basics workshops offered

In preparation for National Poetry Month in April, Salina Public Library’s Community Learning
 and Skills Sharing (CLASS) program is offering four poetry writing classes. 

The classes are scheduled for the first four Tuesdays in March at 6:30 p.m. in the Prescott Room of the library, 301 West Elm Street.

Local poets John P. Waterman,
 aka John E. Epic, and Emery Diercks will cover a different genre each week. During the first half of class, students will view poetry performance videos, read poems in the genre together then break down the mechanics of each style through the work of poets
 such as Edgar Allen Poe, Maya Angelou, Allen Ginsberg, and Asia Greene. The second half of each class will be spent writing poems in the session’s style. Narrative poetry will be covered on March 3, autobiographical on March 10, prose and socially conscious
 poetry on March 17, and spoken word and slam on March 24.

Diercks is a spoken word
 poet who speaks up for the disadvantaged, relays her experience of being a mother, and tells truths that open ears. Epic is an existentialist at heart and the author of the novel “Ill Digestions,” picture-book “Such a Little Apple” and numerous poetry books.
 He is currently part of the connected poet highway that stretches from Buffalo, N.Y., to Kansas City, and across the Heartland following Interstate 70 to Denver.

Registration in advance
 is required with the deadline on Saturday for the first class. Each meeting costs $10 or participants can register for all four for $35. Visit the McKenzie Center, 308 W. Elm, between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday or go online to
<a href="http://salina.coursestorm.com/" target="_blank">
salina.coursestorm.com</a>.

The poetry classes are
 in advance of the 2020 Salina Poetry Series in April, sponsored by the library, Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, SPARK Artist Resource Exchange, and Friends of the Salina Public Library. To find out more about the series, visit
<a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/poetry" target="_blank">
salinapubliclibrary.org/poetry</a>.

In preparation for National Poetry Month in April, Salina Public Library’s Community Learning
 and Skills Sharing (CLASS) program is offering four poetry writing classes. The classes are scheduled for the first four Tuesdays in March at 6:30 p.m. in the Prescott Room of the library, 301 West Elm Street.Local poets John P. Waterman,
 aka John E. Epic, and Emery Diercks will cover a different genre each week. During the first half of class, students will view poetry performance videos, read poems in the genre together then break down the mechanics of each style through the work of poets
 such as Edgar Allen Poe, Maya Angelou, Allen Ginsberg, and Asia Greene. The second half of each class will be spent writing poems in the session’s style. Narrative poetry will be covered on March 3, autobiographical on March 10, prose and socially conscious
 poetry on March 17, and spoken word and slam on March 24.Diercks is a spoken word
 poet who speaks up for the disadvantaged, relays her experience of being a mother, and tells truths that open ears. Epic is an existentialist at heart and the author of the novel “Ill Digestions,” picture-book “Such a Little Apple” and numerous poetry books.
 He is currently part of the connected poet highway that stretches from Buffalo, N.Y., to Kansas City, and across the Heartland following Interstate 70 to Denver.Registration in advance
 is required with the deadline on Saturday for the first class. Each meeting costs $10 or participants can register for all four for $35. Visit the McKenzie Center, 308 W. Elm, between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday or go online to
<a href="http://salina.coursestorm.com/" target="_blank">
salina.coursestorm.com</a>.The poetry classes are
 in advance of the 2020 Salina Poetry Series in April, sponsored by the library, Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, SPARK Artist Resource Exchange, and Friends of the Salina Public Library. To find out more about the series, visit
<a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/poetry" target="_blank">
salinapubliclibrary.org/poetry</a>.

Library CLASS offering to focus on poetry

Kansas Wesleyan University’s emergency management degree program continues to earn positive reviews from national ranking systems. 

KWU was recently named the seventh-best online program by Online Schools Report. The program had previously been listed as the best hybrid program in December 2019 rankings from <a href="http://intelligent.com">intelligent.com</a>.

The demand for emergency managers is expected to rise during the next 10 years, and with the median annual salary for the position exceeding $70,000, the popularity of emergency management degrees is on the rise. KWU’s program is the only one of its kind in Kansas, as it remains the only school in the state with a four-year bachelor’s degree in the discipline. In addition, students are able to study completely online, in the classroom or in a hybrid format, where some classes are online and others are taken on the KWU campus.

Students in the emergency management discipline also have the option of securing a minor in, among other choices, unmanned aircraft systems usage due to an agreement with nearby Kansas State Polytechnic, one of the top universities in the country for drone-related training. The major also frequently leads to quick employment, as evidenced by a list of alumni that includes Michelle Barkley ’18, the current Emergency Management Director for Saline County.

To learn more about Online School’s Report, please visit https://www.onlineschoolsreport.com/methodology/.

Kansas Wesleyan University’s emergency management degree program continues to earn positive reviews from national ranking systems. KWU was recently named the seventh-best online program by Online Schools Report. The program had previously been listed as the best hybrid program in December 2019 rankings from <a href="http://intelligent.com">intelligent.com</a>.The demand for emergency managers is expected to rise during the next 10 years, and with the median annual salary for the position exceeding $70,000, the popularity of emergency management degrees is on the rise. KWU’s program is the only one of its kind in Kansas, as it remains the only school in the state with a four-year bachelor’s degree in the discipline. In addition, students are able to study completely online, in the classroom or in a hybrid format, where some classes are online and others are taken on the KWU campus.Students in the emergency management discipline also have the option of securing a minor in, among other choices, unmanned aircraft systems usage due to an agreement with nearby Kansas State Polytechnic, one of the top universities in the country for drone-related training. The major also frequently leads to quick employment, as evidenced by a list of alumni that includes Michelle Barkley ’18, the current Emergency Management Director for Saline County.To learn more about Online School’s Report, please visit https://www.onlineschoolsreport.com/methodology/.

KWU emergency management gets additional kudos

Mavis Staples and Patty Griffin are coming to the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts in May!

According to information provided by the Stiefel Theatre, Staples and Griffin are scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. on May 6. The Stiefel Theatre is located at 151 South Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets start at $45 and go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to the Stiefel Theatre <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">website</a>.&nbsp;

Following is performer information as provided by the Stiefel Theatre.

“I’m the messenger,” Staples said on the eve of her 80th birthday. “That’s my job -- it has been for my whole life -- and I can’t just give up while the struggle’s still alive. We’ve got more work to do, so I’m going to keep on getting stronger and keep on delivering my message every single day.”

Hailed by NPR as “one of America’s defining voices of freedom and peace,” Staples is the kind of once-in-a-generation artist whose impact on music and culture would be difficult to overstate. She’s both a Blues and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer; a civil rights icon; a GRAMMY Award-winner; a chart-topping soul/gospel/R&amp;B pioneer; a National Arts Awards Lifetime Achievement recipient; and a Kennedy Center honoree. 

She marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., performed at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, and sang in Barack Obama’s White House. She’s collaborated with everyone from Prince and Bob Dylan to Arcade Fire and Hozier, blown away countless festivalgoers from Newport Folk and Glastonbury to Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo, performed with The Band at The Last Waltz, and graced the airwaves on Fallon, Colbert, Ellen, Austin City Limits, Jools Holland, the GRAMMYs, and more. 

At a time when most artists begin to wind down, Staples ramped things up, releasing a trio of critically acclaimed albums in her 70s with Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy that prompted Pitchfork to rave that “her voice has only gained texture and power over the years” and People to proclaim that she “provides the comfort of a higher power.” 

In between records with Tweedy, Staples teamed up with a slew of other younger artists -- Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon, Nick Cave, Valerie June, tUnE-yArDs, and M. Ward among others -- for Livin’ On A High Note, an album The Boston Globe called “stunningly fresh and cutting edge” and which first introduced her to Harper.

Patty Griffin is among the most consequential singer-songwriters of her generation, a quintessentially American artist whose wide-ranging canon incisively explores the intimate moments and universal emotions that bind us together.

Over the course of two decades, the two time GRAMMY® Award winner – and seven time nominee – has crafted a remarkable body of work in progress that prompted the New York Times to hail her for “[writing] cameo-carved songs that create complete emotional portraits of specific people…[her] songs have independent lives that continue in your head when the music ends.”

Widely regarded among the best pure songwriters of this or any other era, Griffin has had her work performed by a truly epic assortment of her fellow artists, among them Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, Solomon Burke, Kelly Clarkson &amp; Jeff Beck, Martina McBride, and Miranda Lambert, to name but a few. Her songs have also been showcased in a variety of film, TV, and theatre projects, with her original music and lyrics featured in the 2007 musical, 10 Million Miles, produced Off-Broadway by the Atlantic Theatre Company and directed by Tony Award- winner Michael Mayer. 

Griffin has also been joined in the studio by a veritable who’s-who of contemporary Americana, including Harris, Buddy &amp; Julie Miller, Shawn Colvin, Jim Lauderdale, Raul Malo, Ian McLagen, JD Foster, and many others. As if her own remarkable career weren’t enough, Griffin has found time to collaborate with a wide range of like-minded artists, among them Joshua Radin, Todd Snider, Dierks Bentley, Robert Plant, Jack Ingram, Gillian Welch, and David Rawlings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582688196622.png" alt="Image courtesy Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts</figcaption>
 </figure>Mavis Staples and Patty Griffin are coming to the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts in May!According to information provided by the Stiefel Theatre, Staples and Griffin are scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. on May 6. The Stiefel Theatre is located at 151 South Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets start at $45 and go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to the Stiefel Theatre <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">website</a>.&nbsp;Following is performer information as provided by the Stiefel Theatre.Mavis Staples“I’m the messenger,” Staples said on the eve of her 80th birthday. “That’s my job -- it has been for my whole life -- and I can’t just give up while the struggle’s still alive. We’ve got more work to do, so I’m going to keep on getting stronger and keep on delivering my message every single day.”Hailed by NPR as “one of America’s defining voices of freedom and peace,” Staples is the kind of once-in-a-generation artist whose impact on music and culture would be difficult to overstate. She’s both a Blues and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer; a civil rights icon; a GRAMMY Award-winner; a chart-topping soul/gospel/R&amp;B pioneer; a National Arts Awards Lifetime Achievement recipient; and a Kennedy Center honoree. She marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., performed at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, and sang in Barack Obama’s White House. She’s collaborated with everyone from Prince and Bob Dylan to Arcade Fire and Hozier, blown away countless festivalgoers from Newport Folk and Glastonbury to Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo, performed with The Band at The Last Waltz, and graced the airwaves on Fallon, Colbert, Ellen, Austin City Limits, Jools Holland, the GRAMMYs, and more. At a time when most artists begin to wind down, Staples ramped things up, releasing a trio of critically acclaimed albums in her 70s with Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy that prompted Pitchfork to rave that “her voice has only gained texture and power over the years” and People to proclaim that she “provides the comfort of a higher power.” In between records with Tweedy, Staples teamed up with a slew of other younger artists -- Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon, Nick Cave, Valerie June, tUnE-yArDs, and M. Ward among others -- for Livin’ On A High Note, an album The Boston Globe called “stunningly fresh and cutting edge” and which first introduced her to Harper.Patty GriffinPatty Griffin is among the most consequential singer-songwriters of her generation, a quintessentially American artist whose wide-ranging canon incisively explores the intimate moments and universal emotions that bind us together.Over the course of two decades, the two time GRAMMY® Award winner – and seven time nominee – has crafted a remarkable body of work in progress that prompted the New York Times to hail her for “[writing] cameo-carved songs that create complete emotional portraits of specific people…[her] songs have independent lives that continue in your head when the music ends.”Widely regarded among the best pure songwriters of this or any other era, Griffin has had her work performed by a truly epic assortment of her fellow artists, among them Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, Solomon Burke, Kelly Clarkson &amp; Jeff Beck, Martina McBride, and Miranda Lambert, to name but a few. Her songs have also been showcased in a variety of film, TV, and theatre projects, with her original music and lyrics featured in the 2007 musical, 10 Million Miles, produced Off-Broadway by the Atlantic Theatre Company and directed by Tony Award- winner Michael Mayer. Griffin has also been joined in the studio by a veritable who’s-who of contemporary Americana, including Harris, Buddy &amp; Julie Miller, Shawn Colvin, Jim Lauderdale, Raul Malo, Ian McLagen, JD Foster, and many others. As if her own remarkable career weren’t enough, Griffin has found time to collaborate with a wide range of like-minded artists, among them Joshua Radin, Todd Snider, Dierks Bentley, Robert Plant, Jack Ingram, Gillian Welch, and David Rawlings.

Mavis Staples, Patty Griffin coming to the Stiefel

Today is Wednesday, Feb. 26, the 57th day of 2020. There are 309 days left in the year.

On Feb. 26, 1993, a truck bomb built by Islamic extremists exploded in the parking garage of the North Tower of New York's World Trade Center, killing six people and injuring more than 1,000 others. (The bomb failed to topple the North Tower into the South Tower, as the terrorists had hoped; both structures were destroyed in the 9/11 attack eight years later.)

In 1616, astronomer Galileo Galilei met with a Roman Inquisition official, Cardinal Robert Bellarmine, who ordered him to abandon the "heretical" concept of heliocentrism, which held that the earth revolved around the sun, instead of the other way around.

In 1904, the United States and Panama proclaimed a treaty under which the U.S. agreed to undertake efforts to build a ship canal across the Panama isthmus.

In 1916, actor-comedian Jackie Gleason was born in Brooklyn, New York.

In 1917, President Woodrow Wilson signed a congressional act establishing Mount McKinley National Park (now Denali National Park) in the Alaska Territory.

In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson signed a congressional act establishing Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.

In 1929, President Calvin Coolidge signed a measure establishing Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.

In 1940, the United States Air Defense Command was created.

In 1952, Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced that Britain had developed its own atomic bomb.

In 1966, South Korean troops sent to fight in the Vietnam War massacred at least 380 civilians in Go Dai hamlet.

In 1984, the last U.S. Marines deployed to Beirut as part of an international peacekeeping force withdrew from the Lebanese capital.

In 1994, a jury in San Antonio acquitted 11 followers of David Koresh of murder, rejecting claims they had ambushed federal agents; five were convicted of voluntary manslaughter.

In 1998, a jury in Amarillo, Texas, rejected an $11 million lawsuit brought by Texas cattlemen who blamed Oprah Winfrey's talk show for a price fall after a segment on food safety that included a discussion about mad cow disease.

Ten years ago: New York Gov. David Paterson announced he wouldn't seek reelection amid a criminal investigation over his handling of a domestic violence complaint against a top aide. (Investigators found no evidence of witness tampering.) At the Vancouver Olympics, the Americans reached 34 medals with a silver and a bronze in short-track speedskating.

Five years ago: Internet activists declared victory over the nation's big cable companies after the Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 to impose the toughest rules yet on broadband service to prevent companies like Comcast, Verizon and AT&amp;T from creating paid fast lanes and slowing or blocking web traffic. "Jihadi John," the masked knife-wielding Islamic State militant seen in execution videos, was identified as Mohammed Emwazi, a London-raised university graduate known to British intelligence for more than five years. Theodore Hesburgh, 97, a Catholic priest who transformed the University of Notre Dame into a school known almost as much for academics as football and who championed human rights around the globe, died in South Bend, Indiana.

One year ago: After making his way from Pyongyang in an armored train, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrived in Vietnam's capital ahead of a summit with President Donald Trump, who arrived later in the day aboard Air Force One. A federal appeals court cleared AT&amp;T's takeover of Time Warner, rejecting claims from the Trump administration that the $81 billion deal would harm consumers and reduce competition.

Today's Birthdays: Game show host Tom Kennedy is 93. Country-rock musician Paul Cotton (Poco) is 77. Actor-director Bill Duke is 77. Singer Mitch Ryder is 75. Actress Marta Kristen (TV: "Lost in Space") is 75. Rock musician Jonathan Cain (Journey) is 70. Singer Michael Bolton is 67. The president of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is 66. Actor Greg Germann is 62. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., is 62. Bandleader John McDaniel is 59. Actor-martial artist Mark Dacascos is 56. Actress Jennifer Grant is 54. Rock musician Tim Commerford (Audioslave) is 52. Singer Erykah Badu is 49. Actor Maz Jobrani (TV: "Superior Donuts") is 48. Rhythm-and-blues singer Rico Wade (Society of Soul) is 48. Olympic gold medal swimmer Jenny Thompson is 47. Rhythm-and-blues singer Kyle Norman (Jagged Edge) is 45. Actor Greg Rikaart is 43. Rock musician Chris Culos (O.A.R.) is 41. Rhythm-and-blues singer Corinne Bailey Rae is 41. Country singer Rodney Hayden is 40. Pop singer Nate Ruess (fun.) is 38. Tennis player Li Na is 38. Latin singer Natalia Lafourcade is 36. Actress Teresa Palmer is 34. Actor Alex Heartman is 30. Actress Taylor Dooley is 27.

Thought for Today: "If you have it and you know you have it, then you have it. If you have it and don't know you have it, you don't have it. If you don't have it but you think you have it, then you have it." — Jackie Gleason (1916-1987).

<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 Wednesday, Feb. 26, the 57th day of 2020. There are 309 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 26, 1993, a truck bomb built by Islamic extremists exploded in the parking garage of the North Tower of New York's World Trade Center, killing six people and injuring more than 1,000 others. (The bomb failed to topple the North Tower into the South Tower, as the terrorists had hoped; both structures were destroyed in the 9/11 attack eight years later.)On this date:In 1616, astronomer Galileo Galilei met with a Roman Inquisition official, Cardinal Robert Bellarmine, who ordered him to abandon the "heretical" concept of heliocentrism, which held that the earth revolved around the sun, instead of the other way around.In 1904, the United States and Panama proclaimed a treaty under which the U.S. agreed to undertake efforts to build a ship canal across the Panama isthmus.In 1916, actor-comedian Jackie Gleason was born in Brooklyn, New York.In 1917, President Woodrow Wilson signed a congressional act establishing Mount McKinley National Park (now Denali National Park) in the Alaska Territory.In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson signed a congressional act establishing Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.In 1929, President Calvin Coolidge signed a measure establishing Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.In 1940, the United States Air Defense Command was created.In 1952, Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced that Britain had developed its own atomic bomb.In 1966, South Korean troops sent to fight in the Vietnam War massacred at least 380 civilians in Go Dai hamlet.In 1984, the last U.S. Marines deployed to Beirut as part of an international peacekeeping force withdrew from the Lebanese capital.In 1994, a jury in San Antonio acquitted 11 followers of David Koresh of murder, rejecting claims they had ambushed federal agents; five were convicted of voluntary manslaughter.In 1998, a jury in Amarillo, Texas, rejected an $11 million lawsuit brought by Texas cattlemen who blamed Oprah Winfrey's talk show for a price fall after a segment on food safety that included a discussion about mad cow disease.Ten years ago: New York Gov. David Paterson announced he wouldn't seek reelection amid a criminal investigation over his handling of a domestic violence complaint against a top aide. (Investigators found no evidence of witness tampering.) At the Vancouver Olympics, the Americans reached 34 medals with a silver and a bronze in short-track speedskating.Five years ago: Internet activists declared victory over the nation's big cable companies after the Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 to impose the toughest rules yet on broadband service to prevent companies like Comcast, Verizon and AT&amp;T from creating paid fast lanes and slowing or blocking web traffic. "Jihadi John," the masked knife-wielding Islamic State militant seen in execution videos, was identified as Mohammed Emwazi, a London-raised university graduate known to British intelligence for more than five years. Theodore Hesburgh, 97, a Catholic priest who transformed the University of Notre Dame into a school known almost as much for academics as football and who championed human rights around the globe, died in South Bend, Indiana.One year ago: After making his way from Pyongyang in an armored train, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrived in Vietnam's capital ahead of a summit with President Donald Trump, who arrived later in the day aboard Air Force One. A federal appeals court cleared AT&amp;T's takeover of Time Warner, rejecting claims from the Trump administration that the $81 billion deal would harm consumers and reduce competition.Today's Birthdays: Game show host Tom Kennedy is 93. Country-rock musician Paul Cotton (Poco) is 77. Actor-director Bill Duke is 77. Singer Mitch Ryder is 75. Actress Marta Kristen (TV: "Lost in Space") is 75. Rock musician Jonathan Cain (Journey) is 70. Singer Michael Bolton is 67. The president of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is 66. Actor Greg Germann is 62. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., is 62. Bandleader John McDaniel is 59. Actor-martial artist Mark Dacascos is 56. Actress Jennifer Grant is 54. Rock musician Tim Commerford (Audioslave) is 52. Singer Erykah Badu is 49. Actor Maz Jobrani (TV: "Superior Donuts") is 48. Rhythm-and-blues singer Rico Wade (Society of Soul) is 48. Olympic gold medal swimmer Jenny Thompson is 47. Rhythm-and-blues singer Kyle Norman (Jagged Edge) is 45. Actor Greg Rikaart is 43. Rock musician Chris Culos (O.A.R.) is 41. Rhythm-and-blues singer Corinne Bailey Rae is 41. Country singer Rodney Hayden is 40. Pop singer Nate Ruess (fun.) is 38. Tennis player Li Na is 38. Latin singer Natalia Lafourcade is 36. Actress Teresa Palmer is 34. Actor Alex Heartman is 30. Actress Taylor Dooley is 27.Thought for Today: "If you have it and you know you have it, then you have it. If you have it and don't know you have it, you don't have it. If you don't have it but you think you have it, then you have it." — Jackie Gleason (1916-1987).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Feb. 26

JEWELL COUNTY -- The Jewell County Sheriff's Office recognized one of its own for 30 years of service. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jewellcountysheriffsoffice/">Jewell County Sheriff's Office</a> Facebook page:

JEWELL COUNTY -- The Jewell County Sheriff's Office recognized one of its own for 30 years of service. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jewellcountysheriffsoffice/">Jewell County Sheriff's Office</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fjewellcountysheriffsoffice%2Fposts%2F1242091025982910&width=500" width="500" height="867" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Jewell County Sheriff's Office honors Rothchild

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory issued for portions of Ottawa County Rural Water District (RWD) No. 2 in south-central Ottawa County and north-central Saline County. 

The advisory was issued for Ottawa County RWD No. 2 customers located between Gerard and Simpson roads on the west and east respectively and between Coronado and Stimmel roads on the north and south respectively. The advisory was issued on Feb. 22, 2020, because of a loss in pressure. Low pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from Ottawa County Rural Water District no. 2 indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.  

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage: <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582416831110.jpeg" alt="The area of Ottawa County Rural Water District No. 2 that is under a boil water advisory. Map courtesy the&nbsp;<a href="https://krwa.net/">Kansas Rural Water Association</a>" />
 <figcaption>The area of Ottawa County Rural Water District No. 2 that is under a boil water advisory. Map courtesy the&nbsp;<a href="https://krwa.net/">Kansas Rural Water Association</a></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory issued for portions of Ottawa County Rural Water District (RWD) No. 2 in south-central Ottawa County and north-central Saline County. The advisory was issued for Ottawa County RWD No. 2 customers located between Gerard and Simpson roads on the west and east respectively and between Coronado and Stimmel roads on the north and south respectively. The advisory was issued on Feb. 22, 2020, because of a loss in pressure. Low pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from Ottawa County Rural Water District no. 2 indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage: <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

KDHE rescinds boil water advisory 

Following are cancellations and schedule changes due to the winter storm moving through the area. We will update this list as information becomes available.

USD 419 Canton-Galva,&nbsp;two-hour delay. No morning preschool&nbsp;

Belmont Boulevard Christian Church, activity canceled

USD 410 Hillsboro, dismissing one hour early. All scheduled activities canceled

USD 419 Canton-Galva,&nbsp;dismissing one hour early. All scheduled activities canceled

Following are cancellations and schedule changes due to the winter storm moving through the area. We will update this list as information becomes available.<h2>WEDNESDAY</h2>USD 419 Canton-Galva,&nbsp;two-hour delay. No morning preschool&nbsp;<h2>TUESDAY</h2>Belmont Boulevard Christian Church, activity canceledUSD 410 Hillsboro, dismissing one hour early. All scheduled activities canceledUSD 419 Canton-Galva,&nbsp;dismissing one hour early. All scheduled activities canceled

Winter storm prompts schedule changes

McPHERSON – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the McPherson Police Department have provided an update on the investigation into a McPherson man’s death.

The deceased male has been identified as 63-year-old Kelly G. Peterson, who lived at the residence where he was found. The death is now being investigated as a homicide. No threat exists to the public related to this incident.

Anyone with information in this case is asked to contact the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or anonymous tips can be made to McPherson County Crime Stoppers at 620-241-1122.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e54772f65b5d3143849744d">KBI, McPherson Police investigate suspicious death</a>

McPHERSON – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the McPherson Police Department have provided an update on the investigation into a McPherson man’s death.The deceased male has been identified as 63-year-old Kelly G. Peterson, who lived at the residence where he was found. The death is now being investigated as a homicide. No threat exists to the public related to this incident.Anyone with information in this case is asked to contact the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or anonymous tips can be made to McPherson County Crime Stoppers at 620-241-1122.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e54772f65b5d3143849744d">KBI, McPherson Police investigate suspicious death</a>

KBI, McPherson Police ID man found dead

It appears that Salina dodged a bullet with the winter storm moving through the area.&nbsp; Following are some selected snowfall reports through 3:10 p.m. for central Kansas from the National Weather Service in Wichita.

It appears that Salina dodged a bullet with the winter storm moving through the area.&nbsp; Following are some selected snowfall reports through 3:10 p.m. for central Kansas from the National Weather Service in Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582668955108.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS provides central Kansas snowfall totals

Salina emergency personnel responded to a fire in a trailer park in west Salina earlier this afternoon.&nbsp;

Smoke could be seen coming from at least one trailer in the trailer park located east of South Broadway Boulevard and north of West Crawford Street.

Salina Post will have more information when it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582664581944.jpeg" alt="Smoke pours from the window of a trailer&nbsp; just south of the Lonnie Wilson auction house, just east of South Broadway Boulevard. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Smoke pours from the window of a trailer&nbsp; just south of the Lonnie Wilson auction house, just east of South Broadway Boulevard. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina emergency personnel responded to a fire in a trailer park in west Salina earlier this afternoon.&nbsp;Smoke could be seen coming from at least one trailer in the trailer park located east of South Broadway Boulevard and north of West Crawford Street.Salina Post will have more information when it becomes available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582664769921.jpeg" alt="Emergency personnel gathered at the trailer park. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Emergency personnel gathered at the trailer park. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

Emergency personnel respond to fire in trailer park

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Lexus driven by Alberto Garcia, 26, McPherson, was&nbsp;northbound in the 2300 Block of 14th Avenue approximately four miles south of&nbsp;Lindsborg.

The driver&nbsp; lost control of the vehicle and swerved into the southbound lane. A southbound 2010 Ford F450 driven by&nbsp; Chase Brown, 22, Hesston, struck the Lexus on the passenger side.

Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Wichita Forensics.

EMS transported passengers in the Lexus Karson Garcia, 4, and Aiden Rosales, 6, both of McPherson to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.

EMS transported a&nbsp; passenger in the Ford&nbsp; Mario&nbsp;Baquero-Moncayo, 53, Las Vegas, NV., to the hospital in Salina. Brown and two other passengers in the Ford were not injured. Three passengers in the Ford were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Lexus driven by Alberto Garcia, 26, McPherson, was&nbsp;northbound in the 2300 Block of 14th Avenue approximately four miles south of&nbsp;Lindsborg.The driver&nbsp; lost control of the vehicle and swerved into the southbound lane. A southbound 2010 Ford F450 driven by&nbsp; Chase Brown, 22, Hesston, struck the Lexus on the passenger side.Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Wichita Forensics.EMS transported passengers in the Lexus Karson Garcia, 4, and Aiden Rosales, 6, both of McPherson to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.EMS transported a&nbsp; passenger in the Ford&nbsp; Mario&nbsp;Baquero-Moncayo, 53, Las Vegas, NV., to the hospital in Salina. Brown and two other passengers in the Ford were not injured. Three passengers in the Ford were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fposts%2F2547235175591677&width=500" width="500" height="222" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

McPherson man dead, 2 children hospitalized after crash

EMPORIA -- The seven members of the 2020 class of Kansas Master Teachers were announced today. 

The teachers chosen for this annual award are:

Hillary Barscewski, First-Grade Teacher at Cottonwood Elementary School in USD 385 Andover

Holly Bright, Kindergarten Teacher at Grandview Elementary School in USD 490 El Dorado

Justin Heeke, Seventh-Grade Physical Education Teacher at Comanche Middle School in USD 443 Dodge City

Erica Huggard, Biology/Health Science Teacher at Emporia High School in USD 253 Emporia

Eunice Izazaga, Second-Grade Teacher at Pleasant Valley Elementary School in USD 259 Wichita

Vickie Marcozzi, Art/Enrichment Reading and Writing Grades 2-5 Teacher at Oakdale Elementary School in USD 305 Salina

Kathy Wagoner, English Teacher at Hays High School in USD 489 Hays.

The 2020 master teachers represent 102 years of classroom experience. Complete bios for all teachers are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/mps2/c/3wA/cXo/t.2zk/oQFOejX5SwCb7Sm_1Vxglg/h0/MQ0Sfc7UWhlIL9xJ9Ree2HTipw3awKUCVJgiSN-2BMxvFuuIR5emIhv21sCNQR2B-2BP/ktTf" target="_blank">www.emporia.edu/masterteacher</a>.

Through the support of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, each Master Teacher will be presented with a check for $1,000.

The recipients were selected by a nine-member committee including representatives from the Kansas Association of Colleges of Teacher Education, Kansas Association of Elementary School Principals, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals, Kansas Parent Teacher Organization, Kansas National Education Association, ESU's Kappa Delta Pi student organization, and representatives of the 2019 Kansas Master Teacher class.

The 2020 Master Teachers will be honored on Master Teacher Day to be held April 1 at Emporia State University. On that day, as part of several recognition activities, the teachers will present a seminar at 2:30 p.m. in the W.S. and E.C. Jones Conference Center in Visser Hall. The teachers will then be honored during a social hour at 5:45 p.m. in Webb Hall Lobby of Emporia State's Memorial Union followed by the banquet and award ceremony at 6:30 p.m. in Webb Hall.

Tickets for the dinner cost $20, and reservations are required by March 20. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/mps2/c/3wA/cXo/t.2zk/oQFOejX5SwCb7Sm_1Vxglg/h1/Vpxx1hFi7Duh8wOysriLwxZPJXvPkvx-2BiDQ2pJNHHH8oHKY52UUM98Pmzb9uJGDDQpRDG-2FNqP-2B-2BtnudVJXq5z0vRPTrVWLaHWWretFDwv1gI2VTDbUVz09QixKJDWfvlqCYDzZhlcJlTtPTsJcLVnnRmV5nGpt9uWG1D47ezu0Y-3D/E-SX" target="_blank">https://www.emporia.edu/teachers-college/about-college/honors-awards/kansas-master-teacher-award-home/recognition-day/</a>.

Emporia State established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1954. The awards are presented annually to selected teachers who demonstrate the attributes of exemplary professional educators. Information on the 66 years of educators named Kansas Master Teachers is available at <a href="http://www.emporia.edu/masterteacher">www.emporia.edu/masterteacher</a>.

Since 1980, Bank of America has pledged more than $100,000 to permanently endow the Kansas Master Teacher awards. In 1984, the Black family of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, established an endowed chair for Kansas Master Teachers. The fund provides a stipend to bring two Master Teachers to Emporia State for several days. During this time, the teachers present to classes of education students.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582658680913.jpeg" alt="Salina's Vicki Marcozzi. Image courtesy ESU" />
 <figcaption>Salina's Vicki Marcozzi. Image courtesy ESU</figcaption>
 </figure>EMPORIA -- The seven members of the 2020 class of Kansas Master Teachers were announced today. The teachers chosen for this annual award are:Hillary Barscewski, First-Grade Teacher at Cottonwood Elementary School in USD 385 AndoverHolly Bright, Kindergarten Teacher at Grandview Elementary School in USD 490 El DoradoJustin Heeke, Seventh-Grade Physical Education Teacher at Comanche Middle School in USD 443 Dodge CityErica Huggard, Biology/Health Science Teacher at Emporia High School in USD 253 EmporiaEunice Izazaga, Second-Grade Teacher at Pleasant Valley Elementary School in USD 259 WichitaVickie Marcozzi, Art/Enrichment Reading and Writing Grades 2-5 Teacher at Oakdale Elementary School in USD 305 SalinaKathy Wagoner, English Teacher at Hays High School in USD 489 Hays.The 2020 master teachers represent 102 years of classroom experience. Complete bios for all teachers are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/mps2/c/3wA/cXo/t.2zk/oQFOejX5SwCb7Sm_1Vxglg/h0/MQ0Sfc7UWhlIL9xJ9Ree2HTipw3awKUCVJgiSN-2BMxvFuuIR5emIhv21sCNQR2B-2BP/ktTf" target="_blank">www.emporia.edu/masterteacher</a>.Through the support of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, each Master Teacher will be presented with a check for $1,000.The recipients were selected by a nine-member committee including representatives from the Kansas Association of Colleges of Teacher Education, Kansas Association of Elementary School Principals, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals, Kansas Parent Teacher Organization, Kansas National Education Association, ESU's Kappa Delta Pi student organization, and representatives of the 2019 Kansas Master Teacher class.The 2020 Master Teachers will be honored on Master Teacher Day to be held April 1 at Emporia State University. On that day, as part of several recognition activities, the teachers will present a seminar at 2:30 p.m. in the W.S. and E.C. Jones Conference Center in Visser Hall. The teachers will then be honored during a social hour at 5:45 p.m. in Webb Hall Lobby of Emporia State's Memorial Union followed by the banquet and award ceremony at 6:30 p.m. in Webb Hall.Tickets for the dinner cost $20, and reservations are required by March 20. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/mps2/c/3wA/cXo/t.2zk/oQFOejX5SwCb7Sm_1Vxglg/h1/Vpxx1hFi7Duh8wOysriLwxZPJXvPkvx-2BiDQ2pJNHHH8oHKY52UUM98Pmzb9uJGDDQpRDG-2FNqP-2B-2BtnudVJXq5z0vRPTrVWLaHWWretFDwv1gI2VTDbUVz09QixKJDWfvlqCYDzZhlcJlTtPTsJcLVnnRmV5nGpt9uWG1D47ezu0Y-3D/E-SX" target="_blank">https://www.emporia.edu/teachers-college/about-college/honors-awards/kansas-master-teacher-award-home/recognition-day/</a>.Emporia State established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1954. The awards are presented annually to selected teachers who demonstrate the attributes of exemplary professional educators. Information on the 66 years of educators named Kansas Master Teachers is available at <a href="http://www.emporia.edu/masterteacher">www.emporia.edu/masterteacher</a>.Since 1980, Bank of America has pledged more than $100,000 to permanently endow the Kansas Master Teacher awards. In 1984, the Black family of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, established an endowed chair for Kansas Master Teachers. The fund provides a stipend to bring two Master Teachers to Emporia State for several days. During this time, the teachers present to classes of education students.--<a href="http://emporia.edu">ESU</a>--

USD 305's Marcozzi named Kansas Master Teacher

Salina Regional Health Center is now taking applications for its Student Volunteer Program.

Area high school and college students interested in volunteering at the hospital for the summer may now apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.srhc.com/" target="_blank">www.srhc.com</a>.&nbsp;Look under the About tab for Volunteers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Approximately 35-40 students will be selected to serve in a variety of areas throughout the hospital and its affiliates in clinical and non –clinical areas.  The link will be active until all positions are filled.&nbsp;

After completing an online application, eligible students will need to schedule an interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interviews will be held on April 8, 15, and 22 at SRHC. 

All students need two sealed references (further instructions on website).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mandatory orientation sessions will be held May 26 and June 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Salina Regional Health Center is now taking applications for its Student Volunteer Program.Area high school and college students interested in volunteering at the hospital for the summer may now apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.srhc.com/" target="_blank">www.srhc.com</a>.&nbsp;Look under the About tab for Volunteers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Approximately 35-40 students will be selected to serve in a variety of areas throughout the hospital and its affiliates in clinical and non –clinical areas. The link will be active until all positions are filled.&nbsp;After completing an online application, eligible students will need to schedule an interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interviews will be held on April 8, 15, and 22 at SRHC. All students need two sealed references (further instructions on website).&nbsp;&nbsp;Mandatory orientation sessions will be held May 26 and June 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

SRHC Student Volunteer Program taking applications

UPDATE:&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has reopened westbound Interstate 70 at Salina. Roads may still be snowpacked and icy in areas, and motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling in winter weather conditions.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed westbound I-70 at Salina due to crashes blocking the roadway.

For up-to-date information on road closures and road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/ashley.tammen/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/5HI7JCSG/Templates/www.kandrive.org" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

UPDATE:&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has reopened westbound Interstate 70 at Salina. Roads may still be snowpacked and icy in areas, and motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling in winter weather conditions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582645069907.png" alt="I-70 westbound near the K156 exit -Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>I-70 westbound near the K156 exit -Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed westbound I-70 at Salina due to crashes blocking the roadway.For up-to-date information on road closures and road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/ashley.tammen/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/5HI7JCSG/Templates/www.kandrive.org" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

UPDATE from KDOT: I-70 reopened at Salina

UPDATE: Marion County has also been added to the winter storm warning.

UPDATE:&nbsp;Ellsworth and McPherson counties are now in a winter storm warning until 6 p.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.&nbsp;Snowfall rates up to 2 inches an hour are possible in the heavy snow band.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories for our area.

Check road conditions by calling 511 or go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kandrive.org/">KanDrive.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A tweeted response from NWS in Wichita to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C </a>Facebook page:

NWS in Wichita has issued a winter storm warning in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday for the following counties in our area.

Heavy snow with accumulations of 5 to 10 inches possible.  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.

Plan on snow covered road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

NWS in Wichita has issued a winter weather advisory in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday for&nbsp;Marion County.

Snow and snow showers are expected with snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Winds gusting as high as 30 mph resulting in   blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning and afternoon commute. Slow down and use caution while traveling.

NWS in Hastings, Neb., has issued a winter weather advisory in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday for Mitchell County.

Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with locally higher amounts are expected. Northerly winds will also increase  across the area today, with wind gusts to 40 mph this afternoon resulting in blowing and drifting snow. This will primarily affect the southwest half of the county, including Tipton and Hunter.

Plan on slippery road conditions and reductions in visibility. These hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute in spots. Slow down and use caution while traveling.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582651886448.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: Marion County has also been added to the winter storm warning.UPDATE:&nbsp;Ellsworth and McPherson counties are now in a winter storm warning until 6 p.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.&nbsp;Snowfall rates up to 2 inches an hour are possible in the heavy snow band.The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories for our area.Check road conditions by calling 511 or go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kandrive.org/">KanDrive.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;A tweeted response from NWS in Wichita to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C </a>Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fposts%2F2547142655600929&width=500" width="500" height="520" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>NWS in Wichita has issued a winter storm warning in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday for the following counties in our area.Lincoln CountySaline CountyHeavy snow with accumulations of 5 to 10 inches possible. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.Plan on snow covered road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.NWS in Wichita has issued a winter weather advisory in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday for&nbsp;Marion County.Snow and snow showers are expected with snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Winds gusting as high as 30 mph resulting in blowing snow and reduced visibility.Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning and afternoon commute. Slow down and use caution while traveling.NWS in Hastings, Neb., has issued a winter weather advisory in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday for Mitchell County.Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with locally higher amounts are expected. Northerly winds will also increase across the area today, with wind gusts to 40 mph this afternoon resulting in blowing and drifting snow. This will primarily affect the southwest half of the county, including Tipton and Hunter.Plan on slippery road conditions and reductions in visibility. These hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute in spots. Slow down and use caution while traveling.

UPDATE: Winter storm warning, weather advisories

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt&nbsp;County farmer and rancher

A recent whirlwind trip took me to both Gettysburg and Washington, DC in the same week. Both sites were good places to reflect on people, politics and the ideals that guide our actions.

There is something profound about visiting the battlefields of Gettysburg. It is hallowed ground, full of sacrifice. The site of a battle fought by a nation divided. Brothers and friends fought against each other.

Three years after the gruesome battle, while the Civil War still raged on in the South, Abraham Lincoln visited and gave his famous Gettysburg Address. In it, he did not gloat over his troops’ victory or demean the southern soldiers who fell short in their attempts. Instead, he recognized all men who fought for ideals of deep personal significance.

Another day I stood looking toward the U.S. Capitol from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I have a dream…” speech.&nbsp; A line from the speech came to mind, “let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.”

That is where we are; once again divided. This time it is not by geography but by party lines. Our highest officials are constantly posturing for ways to snub each other, and people are criticized for whom they sit by at a baseball game. Bitterness and hatred ring out — reverberated from sea to shining sea on every device or media through news outlets and social networks.&nbsp;

Agriculture seems to be one of the few places where politicians can still reach across the aisle and work for the good of the country. Even that is in danger as old school politicians, who have experienced the fruits of collaboration and bipartisan work, reach retirement.

When did our society lose interest in the common good? Have we become so egotistical and spoiled we believe in the all or nothing mentality, where you are either with us or against us — and if you are against us, you are my enemy?

It does not have to be that way. We have the ability to do as King suggested in his speech and struggle for freedom “on the high plain of dignity and discipline.”

My dream for our country is that we would rededicate ourselves to the ideal of being a nation that is indivisible. A nation full of people who choose to practice civility and extend respect to all around them, where a person can be open to views that do not conform to party line and strive to create compromises for the good of all people.

It is time for us to hold ourselves to the highest standards of civility and seek out friendships with those who challenge our mindset. Move away from doing what is comfortable to the difficult that will make a difference in the world. Value those who think critically and speak with reason to their position. Refuse to be defined by ideas that do not fit your beliefs. And if your idea does not prevail, do not hold bitterness or contempt in your heart instead practice grace and humility.

We live in a divisive time, but I have faith that our nation’s commitment to pursuing freedom and liberty is strong enough overcome the differences at hand.

"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/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt&nbsp;County farmer and rancherA recent whirlwind trip took me to both Gettysburg and Washington, DC in the same week. Both sites were good places to reflect on people, politics and the ideals that guide our actions.There is something profound about visiting the battlefields of Gettysburg. It is hallowed ground, full of sacrifice. The site of a battle fought by a nation divided. Brothers and friends fought against each other.Three years after the gruesome battle, while the Civil War still raged on in the South, Abraham Lincoln visited and gave his famous Gettysburg Address. In it, he did not gloat over his troops’ victory or demean the southern soldiers who fell short in their attempts. Instead, he recognized all men who fought for ideals of deep personal significance.Another day I stood looking toward the U.S. Capitol from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I have a dream…” speech.&nbsp; A line from the speech came to mind, “let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.”That is where we are; once again divided. This time it is not by geography but by party lines. Our highest officials are constantly posturing for ways to snub each other, and people are criticized for whom they sit by at a baseball game. Bitterness and hatred ring out — reverberated from sea to shining sea on every device or media through news outlets and social networks.&nbsp;Agriculture seems to be one of the few places where politicians can still reach across the aisle and work for the good of the country. Even that is in danger as old school politicians, who have experienced the fruits of collaboration and bipartisan work, reach retirement.When did our society lose interest in the common good? Have we become so egotistical and spoiled we believe in the all or nothing mentality, where you are either with us or against us — and if you are against us, you are my enemy?It does not have to be that way. We have the ability to do as King suggested in his speech and struggle for freedom “on the high plain of dignity and discipline.”My dream for our country is that we would rededicate ourselves to the ideal of being a nation that is indivisible. A nation full of people who choose to practice civility and extend respect to all around them, where a person can be open to views that do not conform to party line and strive to create compromises for the good of all people.It is time for us to hold ourselves to the highest standards of civility and seek out friendships with those who challenge our mindset. Move away from doing what is comfortable to the difficult that will make a difference in the world. Value those who think critically and speak with reason to their position. Refuse to be defined by ideas that do not fit your beliefs. And if your idea does not prevail, do not hold bitterness or contempt in your heart instead practice grace and humility.We live in a divisive time, but I have faith that our nation’s commitment to pursuing freedom and liberty is strong enough overcome the differences at hand."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: In pursuit of dignity and discipline

Three groups of alumni from Salina High School Central have joined forces to create the Salina Central Millennium Scholarship Fund.

The classes of 1998, 1999, and 2000 created this scholarship to honor the memories of their classmates who have died. 

The idea to create a scholarship came from Adam Burnham Hulstine as part of the preparations for the 20th reunion of the class of 1999. When Hulstine died just before the reunion, his classmates organized to bring his idea to life.

Each of the individuals who are remembered through this scholarship is cherished as a friend who made the world better by his/her presence. The honored individuals are missed dearly by their families and classmates.

Application due date: March 1 annually

The completed application, including two reference letters and an official transcript should be submitted to your school counselor by the deadline. A selection committee of faculty from Salina Central will review the applications and make the final recommendation. The selection committee will notify the Salina Education Foundation of the name of the chosen recipient no later than April 15.

The Salina Central Millennium Scholarship Fund is awarded to a graduate of Salina High School Central who plans to attend higher education, either full or part-time, at an institution such as a university, college, or trade school. The recipient must have a minimum 2.0 GPA. The recipient should embody the traits that made the individuals honored through this scholarship so important in the lives of others.

In a short essay, please answer the following questions:

1. What are your plans after graduating from high school and how will this scholarship help make these plans possible?

2. How have you brought joy into the lives of others and given back to those around you?

3. What challenges have you had to overcome to graduate from high school? What have you learned from your experience and how can these lessons help you succeed in the future?

Three groups of alumni from Salina High School Central have joined forces to create the Salina Central Millennium Scholarship Fund.The classes of 1998, 1999, and 2000 created this scholarship to honor the memories of their classmates who have died. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582601896295.jpeg" alt="The late Adam Burnham Hulstine. Photo courtesy the scholarship organizing group" />
 <figcaption>The late Adam Burnham Hulstine. Photo courtesy the scholarship organizing group</figcaption>
 </figure>The idea to create a scholarship came from Adam Burnham Hulstine as part of the preparations for the 20th reunion of the class of 1999. When Hulstine died just before the reunion, his classmates organized to bring his idea to life.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582602178982.jpeg" alt="Image provided by the scholarship organizing group" />
 <figcaption>Image provided by the scholarship organizing group</figcaption>
 </figure>Each of the individuals who are remembered through this scholarship is cherished as a friend who made the world better by his/her presence. The honored individuals are missed dearly by their families and classmates.<h2>APPLICATION INFORMATION</h2>Application due date: March 1 annuallyThe completed application, including two reference letters and an official transcript should be submitted to your school counselor by the deadline. A selection committee of faculty from Salina Central will review the applications and make the final recommendation. The selection committee will notify the Salina Education Foundation of the name of the chosen recipient no later than April 15.EligibilityThe Salina Central Millennium Scholarship Fund is awarded to a graduate of Salina High School Central who plans to attend higher education, either full or part-time, at an institution such as a university, college, or trade school. The recipient must have a minimum 2.0 GPA. The recipient should embody the traits that made the individuals honored through this scholarship so important in the lives of others.Part 1: Applicant Information● Name● Parent/Guardian● Address● PhonePart 2: ApplicationIn a short essay, please answer the following questions:1. What are your plans after graduating from high school and how will this scholarship help make these plans possible?2. How have you brought joy into the lives of others and given back to those around you?3. What challenges have you had to overcome to graduate from high school? What have you learned from your experience and how can these lessons help you succeed in the future?Part 3: Two letters of reference

Idea from Salina Central alum leads to scholarship

The North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA) invites people throughout the heartland to help Kansans with their Medicare by volunteering to be a counselor with the Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHICK).

SHICK counselors provide trustworthy, unbiased information to older Kansans, people living with disabilities and their caregivers by helping people understand Medicare, its options and answering questions.

Those interested in being SHICK counselors should call 1-800-432-2703 to get more information or an application. Applications are also available at <a href="http://www.ncfhaaa.com">www.ncfhaaa.com</a>.

"SHICK-certified volunteers provide unbiased and trustworthy help to people wanting answers about Medicare. Becoming a SHICK counselor is the best way we know to learn about Medicare and then to help meet a critical need to help others in this part of the state get answers and peace of mind about their Medicare decisions,”&nbsp;said Julie Govert Walter, NC-FH AAA executive director.

In 2019, SHICK counselors with the NC-FH AAA helped more than 5,440 Kansans. Between Oct. 15, 2019 and Dec. 7, 2019, counselors in the region helped more than 3,800 people review their Medicare Part D drug plan options. Those who decided to shop and then switch Part D plans last fall saved on average $937. Total estimated savings in the NC-FH AAA region was $1,338,518.

“We are truly grateful for each of the wonderful SHICK counselors in our region—however, even with their generous help, we had to turn people away during Medicare enrollment season,” Walter said. “The need for counselors is critical—our goal is to provide everyone an opportunity to meet with a SHICK counselor-- last fall, we simply did not have enough trained counselors to help.”

To become certified as a SHICK counselor, on-line and in-person training on Medicare is required. In-person training sessions happen in the spring and summer throughout the state.

Certain restrictions apply. To avoid conflicts of interest -- or the appearance of conflicts -- people currently affiliated with pharmacies or insurance companies are restricted from SHICK counseling.

The North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA) invites people throughout the heartland to help Kansans with their Medicare by volunteering to be a counselor with the Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHICK).SHICK counselors provide trustworthy, unbiased information to older Kansans, people living with disabilities and their caregivers by helping people understand Medicare, its options and answering questions.Those interested in being SHICK counselors should call 1-800-432-2703 to get more information or an application. Applications are also available at <a href="http://www.ncfhaaa.com">www.ncfhaaa.com</a>."SHICK-certified volunteers provide unbiased and trustworthy help to people wanting answers about Medicare. Becoming a SHICK counselor is the best way we know to learn about Medicare and then to help meet a critical need to help others in this part of the state get answers and peace of mind about their Medicare decisions,”&nbsp;said Julie Govert Walter, NC-FH AAA executive director.In 2019, SHICK counselors with the NC-FH AAA helped more than 5,440 Kansans. Between Oct. 15, 2019 and Dec. 7, 2019, counselors in the region helped more than 3,800 people review their Medicare Part D drug plan options. Those who decided to shop and then switch Part D plans last fall saved on average $937. Total estimated savings in the NC-FH AAA region was $1,338,518.“We are truly grateful for each of the wonderful SHICK counselors in our region—however, even with their generous help, we had to turn people away during Medicare enrollment season,” Walter said. “The need for counselors is critical—our goal is to provide everyone an opportunity to meet with a SHICK counselor-- last fall, we simply did not have enough trained counselors to help.”To become certified as a SHICK counselor, on-line and in-person training on Medicare is required. In-person training sessions happen in the spring and summer throughout the state.Certain restrictions apply. To avoid conflicts of interest -- or the appearance of conflicts -- people currently affiliated with pharmacies or insurance companies are restricted from SHICK counseling.

More volunteer counselors needed to provide Medicare help

The Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation has approved $23,000 in Horizons Grants for local artists and cultural organizations. 

The grants were juried and scored by a professional panel with expertise in the granting areas.  

Horizons Grants support initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to artistic excellence and community involvement by engaging audience members as active participants. Applicants also are encouraged to develop strategic partnerships to strengthen the reach of their local activities. 

Organizational Project grants funded for 2020 include the following.

Salina Art Center, $6,000 for “Place, Migration, &amp; Diversity” with artist-in-residence Fidencio Fifield-Perez. The Salina Art Center’s artist-in-residence for July 2020, Fifield-Perez will engage community members through workshops and activities. He will create new art for exhibition that explores the immigrant experience in the United States through civic, artistic, and pedagogical dialogues. Fifield-Perez was born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and grew up in the U.S. after his family migrated. His current work examines borders, edges and the people who must traverse them.

Salina Symphony, $6,000 for “The American Journey,” a partnership with the Salina Community Theatre to be presented in January 2021. The concert will feature Peter Boyer's "Ellis Island: The Dream of America," a work that celebrates the American immigrant experience. Innovative in its format, "Ellis Island" brings elements of theatre and multimedia into the concert hall, employing actors and projected historical images from the Ellis Island archives. In addition to a public performance, the Symphony and cast will perform "Ellis Island" for an audience of 1,200 grade-school students.

Salina Community Theatre, $5,000 to acquire training to create a naturally articulated puppet for stage productions. In planning for a future production of “The Wizard of Oz,” the Salina Community Theatre will take the exciting step of having some of the anthropomorphic characters presented with naturally articulated puppets, through training by Emmy-nominated designer Nicholas Mahon. SCT staff believes that this will present a unique and exciting representation that will bring richer character possibilities for the “Wizard of Oz” and future productions.

Lana Jordan Developing Artist grants funded for 2020 include the following.

Sarah Crews, $2,000 for recording and production of “Precious Bird.” The project consists of recording a full-length album of Crews’ original music, to be completed and produced in 2020. Eleven songs will be professionally recorded in collaboration with local musicians who will contribute percussion and other lead instruments.

Judy Lilly, $2,000 for publishing “The Voices Continue,” a revised and expanded version of her historical essay, “The Jayhawking of Salina,” which appeared in The Way West (editor, James Crutchfield, Forge, New York, 2005). The new version will be a 9x6” booklet of 32 pages, with additional information, vintage photographs, maps and a full-color cover. This booklet will be a launching pad for a series of stand-alone essays about Salina and Saline County history called “The Voices Continue,” with a nod to Lilly’s book, Voices from the Valley, published in 1994 with Horizons-grant support.

Isaiah Marcotte, $2,000 for equipment to produce animation for “Limerance: or the internal spectacle of the adolescent experience.” Using updated equipment, community members’ assistance, and repurposed material, Marcotte will produce the animation sequences for his film, “Limerence: or the internal spectacle of the adolescent experience.” The final result will be a film that will translate the experience and complications of first love. The sequences will be complete by the end of 2020, with test screening in the late fall.

Horizons is a privately funded grants program made possible by contributions from more than 50 individuals, foundations, and businesses, along with the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation. The SAH Foundation has provided more than $900,000 in support of more than 420 grants since 1986. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities staff provide grant oversight and administration for Saline County artists and organizations. This public-private partnership remains unique in the state and nation. 

Salina Arts &amp; Humanities reviews Enrichment Grant proposals for up to $500 on a rolling basis, from February through November 30 each year. The agency will again accept Organizational Project and Developing Artists Grant applications in November 2020. All grant guidelines and applications are available at <a href="http://salinaarts.com">salinaarts.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582600288793.jpeg" alt="Limerance. Photo by Isaiah Marcotte courtesy SA&amp;H" />
 <figcaption>Limerance. Photo by Isaiah Marcotte courtesy SA&amp;H</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation has approved $23,000 in Horizons Grants for local artists and cultural organizations. The grants were juried and scored by a professional panel with expertise in the granting areas. Horizons Grants support initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to artistic excellence and community involvement by engaging audience members as active participants. Applicants also are encouraged to develop strategic partnerships to strengthen the reach of their local activities. Organizational Project grants funded for 2020 include the following.Salina Art Center, $6,000 for “Place, Migration, &amp; Diversity” with artist-in-residence Fidencio Fifield-Perez. The Salina Art Center’s artist-in-residence for July 2020, Fifield-Perez will engage community members through workshops and activities. He will create new art for exhibition that explores the immigrant experience in the United States through civic, artistic, and pedagogical dialogues. Fifield-Perez was born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and grew up in the U.S. after his family migrated. His current work examines borders, edges and the people who must traverse them. Salina Symphony, $6,000 for “The American Journey,” a partnership with the Salina Community Theatre to be presented in January 2021. The concert will feature Peter Boyer's "Ellis Island: The Dream of America," a work that celebrates the American immigrant experience. Innovative in its format, "Ellis Island" brings elements of theatre and multimedia into the concert hall, employing actors and projected historical images from the Ellis Island archives. In addition to a public performance, the Symphony and cast will perform "Ellis Island" for an audience of 1,200 grade-school students. Salina Community Theatre, $5,000 to acquire training to create a naturally articulated puppet for stage productions. In planning for a future production of “The Wizard of Oz,” the Salina Community Theatre will take the exciting step of having some of the anthropomorphic characters presented with naturally articulated puppets, through training by Emmy-nominated designer Nicholas Mahon. SCT staff believes that this will present a unique and exciting representation that will bring richer character possibilities for the “Wizard of Oz” and future productions. Lana Jordan Developing Artist grants funded for 2020 include the following.Sarah Crews, $2,000 for recording and production of “Precious Bird.” The project consists of recording a full-length album of Crews’ original music, to be completed and produced in 2020. Eleven songs will be professionally recorded in collaboration with local musicians who will contribute percussion and other lead instruments. Judy Lilly, $2,000 for publishing “The Voices Continue,” a revised and expanded version of her historical essay, “The Jayhawking of Salina,” which appeared in The Way West (editor, James Crutchfield, Forge, New York, 2005). The new version will be a 9x6” booklet of 32 pages, with additional information, vintage photographs, maps and a full-color cover. This booklet will be a launching pad for a series of stand-alone essays about Salina and Saline County history called “The Voices Continue,” with a nod to Lilly’s book, Voices from the Valley, published in 1994 with Horizons-grant support.Isaiah Marcotte, $2,000 for equipment to produce animation for “Limerance: or the internal spectacle of the adolescent experience.” Using updated equipment, community members’ assistance, and repurposed material, Marcotte will produce the animation sequences for his film, “Limerence: or the internal spectacle of the adolescent experience.” The final result will be a film that will translate the experience and complications of first love. The sequences will be complete by the end of 2020, with test screening in the late fall.Horizons is a privately funded grants program made possible by contributions from more than 50 individuals, foundations, and businesses, along with the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation. The SAH Foundation has provided more than $900,000 in support of more than 420 grants since 1986. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities staff provide grant oversight and administration for Saline County artists and organizations. This public-private partnership remains unique in the state and nation. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities reviews Enrichment Grant proposals for up to $500 on a rolling basis, from February through November 30 each year. The agency will again accept Organizational Project and Developing Artists Grant applications in November 2020. All grant guidelines and applications are available at <a href="http://salinaarts.com">salinaarts.com</a>.