Project OPEN training has been announced. From the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaEconomicDevelopmentOrg/">Salina KS Community Economic Development Organization</a> Facebook page:

Project OPEN training has been announced. From the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaEconomicDevelopmentOrg/">Salina KS Community Economic Development Organization</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSalinaEconomicDevelopmentOrg%2Fposts%2F2818550551566811&width=500" width="500" height="590" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Project OPEN training announced

Rolling Hills Zoo has announced the names of the six-month-old tiger cubs. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rollinghillszoo/">Rolling Hills Zoo</a> Facebook page:

Rolling Hills Zoo has announced the names of the six-month-old tiger cubs. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rollinghillszoo/">Rolling Hills Zoo</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Frollinghillszoo%2Fposts%2F10157956226414383&width=500" width="500" height="787" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Zoo announces names of six-month-old cubs

Isis Shrine Spaghetti Feed



ATCHISON -- Benedictine College has recognized those students who have distinguished themselves academically during the last semester, which ended Dec. 10, 2019.&nbsp;

Any full-time student carrying a minimum of 12 hours and a perfect 4.0 grade point average through the spring term is named to the President's list. Full time students with 12 hours and a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.95 are named to the Dean's List. Of the 1,935 full-time undergraduate students on campus for 2019-2020 academic year, 125 made the President's List and 730 made the Dean's List.

Local and area residents who have earned these honors include the following.

Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison.&nbsp;It prides itself on outstanding academics, extraordinary faith life, strong athletic programs, and an exceptional sense of community and belonging. It has a mission to educate men and women within a community of faith and scholarship.

--<a href="http://benedictine.edu">Benedictine College</a>--

ATCHISON -- Benedictine College has recognized those students who have distinguished themselves academically during the last semester, which ended Dec. 10, 2019.&nbsp;Any full-time student carrying a minimum of 12 hours and a perfect 4.0 grade point average through the spring term is named to the President's list. Full time students with 12 hours and a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.95 are named to the Dean's List. Of the 1,935 full-time undergraduate students on campus for 2019-2020 academic year, 125 made the President's List and 730 made the Dean's List.Local and area residents who have earned these honors include the following.

MarionElise Schlehuber, Dean's ListSalinaFrancislee Sullivan, Dean's List

Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison.&nbsp;It prides itself on outstanding academics, extraordinary faith life, strong athletic programs, and an exceptional sense of community and belonging. It has a mission to educate men and women within a community of faith and scholarship.--<a href="http://benedictine.edu">Benedictine College</a>--

Local, area students earn academic honors at Benedictine

On Feb. 6 at approximately 12:45 p.m., officers were sent to Sam’s Club, 2919 Market Place, in regard to a shoplifting case. 

Store employees reported a man and woman entered the store, stole more than $540 worth of merchandise, and fled in a silver Mitsubishi Galant. The vehicle's front bumper was black.

The male appeared to be in his late 20s or early 30s and has brown hair with a brown goatee. He was wearing a black ball cap, red jacket, white and red shirt, blue jeans, and black shoes. 

The female appeared to be in her late 20s or early 30s and has black or dark brown hair that was pulled into a large bun. The female suspect was wearing black sunglasses, a black jacket, a black shirt, blue jeans, and tan boots. Both persons were Caucasians. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581721424845.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy Salina-Saline County Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Salina-Saline County Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>On Feb. 6 at approximately 12:45 p.m., officers were sent to Sam’s Club, 2919 Market Place, in regard to a shoplifting case. Store employees reported a man and woman entered the store, stole more than $540 worth of merchandise, and fled in a silver Mitsubishi Galant. The vehicle's front bumper was black.The male appeared to be in his late 20s or early 30s and has brown hair with a brown goatee. He was wearing a black ball cap, red jacket, white and red shirt, blue jeans, and black shoes. The female appeared to be in her late 20s or early 30s and has black or dark brown hair that was pulled into a large bun. The female suspect was wearing black sunglasses, a black jacket, a black shirt, blue jeans, and tan boots. Both persons were Caucasians. If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow the Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581721489464.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Crimestoppers seeks tips about shoplifting case

A Salina man was tased and taken into custody after an incident in north Salina Thursday evening.

Officers were dispatched to McDonald's, 125 East Diamond Drive, at 7:50 p.m. Thursday for the report of an allegedly disorderly subject who refused to leave, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. When they arrived, the subject, Jacob Thompson, 28, of Salina, had moved over to the 24/7 Travel Store, 2230 North Ninth Street, Forrester said.

According to Forrester, Thompson told the officers that he was trying to get on the bus. Officers noted that Thompson was acting strangely, not following orders, and not answering questions, he said. Officers told Thompson that he was not to return to McDonald's and that the bus stop was across the street at the Petro 2, 2125 North Ninth Street, Forrester said.

Officers then went to talk to McDonald's management, but were called over to Petro 2 because Thompson allegedly was raising a ruckus there, Forrester said. After the officers made contact with Thompson at Petro 2, Thompson became angry and started swinging his coat at and punching at officers, Forrester said. According to Forrester, Thompson struck an officer with his coat and grazed an officer's face with a punch. At that point, he was tased and taken into custody, Forrester noted.

Thompson was arrested on suspicion of the following, Forrester said.

Interference with a law enforcement officer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581687598237.jpeg" alt="Jacob Thompson. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Thompson. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A Salina man was tased and taken into custody after an incident in north Salina Thursday evening.Officers were dispatched to McDonald's, 125 East Diamond Drive, at 7:50 p.m. Thursday for the report of an allegedly disorderly subject who refused to leave, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. When they arrived, the subject, Jacob Thompson, 28, of Salina, had moved over to the 24/7 Travel Store, 2230 North Ninth Street, Forrester said.According to Forrester, Thompson told the officers that he was trying to get on the bus. Officers noted that Thompson was acting strangely, not following orders, and not answering questions, he said. Officers told Thompson that he was not to return to McDonald's and that the bus stop was across the street at the Petro 2, 2125 North Ninth Street, Forrester said.Officers then went to talk to McDonald's management, but were called over to Petro 2 because Thompson allegedly was raising a ruckus there, Forrester said. After the officers made contact with Thompson at Petro 2, Thompson became angry and started swinging his coat at and punching at officers, Forrester said. According to Forrester, Thompson struck an officer with his coat and grazed an officer's face with a punch. At that point, he was tased and taken into custody, Forrester noted.Thompson was arrested on suspicion of the following, Forrester said.Battery of a law enforcement officerInterference with a law enforcement officerDisorderly conductCriminal trespass

Salina man tased, arrested on suspicion of battery of a LEO

A 20-year-old Salina man was arrested on suspicion of multiple drug-related counts after a witness reported seeing an alleged drug transaction in the Central Mall parking lot.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that police were called to the Central Mall, 2259 South Ninth Street at approximately 3:15 p.m. Thursday for the report of what a witness believed was a drug transaction in the parking lot. The witness told police that a vehicle pulled up to a black, two-door passenger car that had in it two white males who appeared to be in their 20s, he said. The witness saw something exchanged between the two vehicles, Forrester said. 

According to Forrester, the witness was able to get the license plate number of the black car, which helped a patrol officer locate the vehicle at approximately 3:30 p.m. He said the vehicle, a 2013 Hyundai Genesis, made an improper stop at the Republic Avenue and South Santa Fe Avenue intersection, and the officer pulled the vehicle over for a traffic stop.

When the officer made contact with the driver, he smelled the odor of raw marijuana, Forrester said. An investigation was conducted and during the search of the vehicle, approximately 25 grams of raw marijuana and 26 boxes of vape cartridges that had THC in them were found, Forrester said.

The driver, Indy Boland, 20, of Salina, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Forrester said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581687490873.jpeg" alt="Indy Boland. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Indy Boland. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A 20-year-old Salina man was arrested on suspicion of multiple drug-related counts after a witness reported seeing an alleged drug transaction in the Central Mall parking lot.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that police were called to the Central Mall, 2259 South Ninth Street at approximately 3:15 p.m. Thursday for the report of what a witness believed was a drug transaction in the parking lot. The witness told police that a vehicle pulled up to a black, two-door passenger car that had in it two white males who appeared to be in their 20s, he said. The witness saw something exchanged between the two vehicles, Forrester said. According to Forrester, the witness was able to get the license plate number of the black car, which helped a patrol officer locate the vehicle at approximately 3:30 p.m. He said the vehicle, a 2013 Hyundai Genesis, made an improper stop at the Republic Avenue and South Santa Fe Avenue intersection, and the officer pulled the vehicle over for a traffic stop.When the officer made contact with the driver, he smelled the odor of raw marijuana, Forrester said. An investigation was conducted and during the search of the vehicle, approximately 25 grams of raw marijuana and 26 boxes of vape cartridges that had THC in them were found, Forrester said.The driver, Indy Boland, 20, of Salina, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Forrester said.

Salina man arrested on suspicion of multiple drug-related counts

You still have time to share your opinion with the City of Salina! The city seeks public feedback about city boards, commissions, and committees through a new online survey.

The six-question survey asks questions about participation and communication preferences pertaining to vacancies.

Individuals who would like to complete the survey should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/">www.salina-ks.gov</a>, and select the link located within the Featured Items section.

You still have time to share your opinion with the City of Salina! The city seeks public feedback about city boards, commissions, and committees through a new online survey.The six-question survey asks questions about participation and communication preferences pertaining to vacancies.Individuals who would like to complete the survey should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/">www.salina-ks.gov</a>, and select the link located within the Featured Items section.The survey will close Feb. 28.

City boards, commissions, and committees survey available online

Adult singers are invited to join the Salina Silvertones Chorus with rehearsals beginning Feb. 24 for the 2020 season.

The chorus’ 90-minute weekly rehearsals begin at 10 a.m. on Mondays on the second floor of the Salina Senior Center, 245 North Ninth Street. The director is Linda Collins, a retired USD305 vocal music teacher. There is no charge to sing and music is provided. Auditions and pre-enrollment are not required.

The chorus was formed in 1982 as the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Chorus and has been performing since, singing a variety of four-part music. Singers perform semi-monthly at Salina long-term care homes from March through December and at area special events.

Interested new singers who want more information may leave a message and return phone number for Collins at the Senior Center, (785) 827-9818 during regular business hours.

Adult singers are invited to join the Salina Silvertones Chorus with rehearsals beginning Feb. 24 for the 2020 season.The chorus’ 90-minute weekly rehearsals begin at 10 a.m. on Mondays on the second floor of the Salina Senior Center, 245 North Ninth Street. The director is Linda Collins, a retired USD305 vocal music teacher. There is no charge to sing and music is provided. Auditions and pre-enrollment are not required.The chorus was formed in 1982 as the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Chorus and has been performing since, singing a variety of four-part music. Singers perform semi-monthly at Salina long-term care homes from March through December and at area special events.Interested new singers who want more information may leave a message and return phone number for Collins at the Senior Center, (785) 827-9818 during regular business hours.

Salina Silvertones Chorus rehearsals begin Feb. 24

Kansas Wesleyan’s religion and philosophy department will welcome two special guests for its second annual Women in Religion event on Thursday. 

The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. in Fitzpatrick Auditorium, and admission is free.

This year’s forum&nbsp;will discuss the role of the spiritual disciplines in self-care and care of others. The evening includes a dialogue between Dr. Judith Simmer-Brown of Naropa University, who represents the Buddhist contemplative tradition, while Sr. Janet Lander of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Concordia Motherhouse represents the Christian view.

Kansas Wesleyan’s religion and philosophy department will welcome two special guests for its second annual Women in Religion event on Thursday. The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. in Fitzpatrick Auditorium, and admission is free.This year’s forum&nbsp;will discuss the role of the spiritual disciplines in self-care and care of others. The evening includes a dialogue between Dr. Judith Simmer-Brown of Naropa University, who represents the Buddhist contemplative tradition, while Sr. Janet Lander of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Concordia Motherhouse represents the Christian view.Small group discussions will follow.

KWU to host Women in Religion Forum

MANHATTAN – Get your walking shoes ready! Walk Kansas 2020 is just around the corner.

The popular K-State Research and Extension program that encourages physical activity and healthy eating, runs March 15 through May 9.

Participants can sign up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;starting Feb. 18 or through their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>. The cost to participate is $10 per person, which includes access to the online tracker, a weekly newsletter with tips and recipes, program resources, and local activities. Walk Kansas t-shirts are available for an additional $9.50.

“With spring getting closer by the day, this is a great way to make a promise to yourself to be more active and to make lifestyle choices that support healthy living,” said Sharolyn Jackson, K-State Research and Extension family and consumer science specialist and Walk Kansas coordinator. “Plus it’s fun to support friends, family, neighbors or co-workers – anyone who makes up your team.”

Participants form teams of six, with one serving as a team captain. Team members record their own activity online each week. Participants do not have to walk or participate in other types of activity together, or even live in Kansas. Many teams form with family members or friends in other parts of the state or country. Teams connect through technology.

While physical activity is at the heart of Walk Kansas, the program will have a couple of new twists this year, Jackson said. One focuses on the Mediterranean style of eating.

“Eating the Med way is not about flavors,” Jackson said. “It is about eating lots of fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains, eating more beans and legumes, reducing added sugars, using olive and canola oil, and more.”

The second twist centers on introducing participants to nine shared lifestyle traits of the Blue Zones, places around the world where people are known to live measurably longer and healthier lives. These traits, and ways to incorporate them into your life, will be introduced during the eight week program.

“Your health is so much more than a number on the scale,” Jackson said.

More information and registration (starting Feb. 18) for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">Walk Kansas</a>&nbsp;is available online or through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581625303222.jpeg" alt="A previous Walk Kansas team from Sedgwick County. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>A previous Walk Kansas team from Sedgwick County. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – Get your walking shoes ready! Walk Kansas 2020 is just around the corner.The popular K-State Research and Extension program that encourages physical activity and healthy eating, runs March 15 through May 9.Participants can sign up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;starting Feb. 18 or through their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>. The cost to participate is $10 per person, which includes access to the online tracker, a weekly newsletter with tips and recipes, program resources, and local activities. Walk Kansas t-shirts are available for an additional $9.50.“With spring getting closer by the day, this is a great way to make a promise to yourself to be more active and to make lifestyle choices that support healthy living,” said Sharolyn Jackson, K-State Research and Extension family and consumer science specialist and Walk Kansas coordinator. “Plus it’s fun to support friends, family, neighbors or co-workers – anyone who makes up your team.”Participants form teams of six, with one serving as a team captain. Team members record their own activity online each week. Participants do not have to walk or participate in other types of activity together, or even live in Kansas. Many teams form with family members or friends in other parts of the state or country. Teams connect through technology.While physical activity is at the heart of Walk Kansas, the program will have a couple of new twists this year, Jackson said. One focuses on the Mediterranean style of eating.“Eating the Med way is not about flavors,” Jackson said. “It is about eating lots of fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains, eating more beans and legumes, reducing added sugars, using olive and canola oil, and more.”The second twist centers on introducing participants to nine shared lifestyle traits of the Blue Zones, places around the world where people are known to live measurably longer and healthier lives. These traits, and ways to incorporate them into your life, will be introduced during the eight week program.“Your health is so much more than a number on the scale,” Jackson said.More information and registration (starting Feb. 18) for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">Walk Kansas</a>&nbsp;is available online or through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

Walk Kansas 2020 starts March 15

Today is Friday, Feb. 14, the 45th day of 2020. There are 321 days left in the year. This is Valentine's Day.

On Feb. 14, 2018, a gunman identified as a former student opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School near Fort Lauderdale, Florida, killing 17 people in the nation's deadliest school shooting since the attack in Newtown, Connecticut, more than five years earlier.

In 1859, Oregon was admitted to the Union as the 33rd state.

In 1876, inventors Alexander Graham Bell and Elisha Gray applied separately for patents related to the telephone. (The U.S. Supreme Court eventually ruled Bell the rightful inventor.)

In 1912, Arizona became the 48th state of the Union as President William Howard Taft signed a proclamation.

In 1913, labor leader Jimmy Hoffa was born in Brazil, Ind.; college football coach Woody Hayes was born in Clifton, Ohio; sports broadcaster Mel Allen was born in Birmingham, Ala.

In 1929, the "St. Valentine's Day Massacre" took place in a Chicago garage as seven rivals of Al Capone's gang were gunned down.

In 1945, during World War II, British and Canadian forces reached the Rhine River in Germany.

In 1949, Israel's Knesset convened for the first time.

In 1967, Aretha Franklin recorded her cover of Otis Redding's "Respect" at Atlantic Records in New York.

In 1979, Adolph Dubs, the U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, was kidnapped in Kabul by Muslim extremists and killed in a shootout between his abductors and police.

In 1984, 6-year-old Stormie Jones became the world's first heart-liver transplant recipient when the surgery was performed at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (she lived until November 1990).

In 1985, Cable News Network reporter Jeremy Levin, held hostage by extremists in Lebanon, escaped from his captors.

In 2013, double-amputee and Olympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, at his home in Pretoria, South Africa; he was later convicted of murder and is serving a 13-year prison term. American Airlines and US Airways announced an $11 billion merger that turned American into the world's biggest airline.

Ten years ago: The Americans broke through the Nordic combined barrier at Vancouver as Johnny Spillane won the silver, the first U.S. Olympic medal in the sport dominated since its inception by the Europeans (Jason Lamy Chappuis of France won the gold). Jamie McMurray won the Daytona 500. The Eastern Conference edged the West 141-139 in the NBA All-Star game in Arlington, Texas. Larry Ellison's space-age trimaran completed a two-race sweep in the 33rd America's Cup. Death claimed best-selling British author Dick Francis at age 89 and Doug Fieger, leader of the power pop band The Knack, at age 57.

Five years ago: A Danish gunman attacked a free-speech seminar and a synagogue in Copenhagen, killing two people; the shooter was later slain by a special police team. Actor Louis Jourdan, 93, died in Beverly Hills, California. Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Philip Levine, 87, died in Fresno, California.

One year ago: William Barr was sworn in for his second stint as the nation's attorney general; he succeeded Jeff Sessions, who'd been pushed out of office by President Donald Trump after Trump denounced Sessions' decision to recuse himself from the Russia investigation. Amazon abruptly dropped plans for a big new headquarters in New York after politicians and activists objected to the nearly $3 billion in incentives that had been promised to the company. European aviation giant Airbus said it would stop making its superjumbo A380 in 2021 after struggling to sell the plane, the world's biggest passenger jet.

Today's Birthdays: TV personality Hugh Downs is 99. Actor Andrew Prine is 84. Country singer Razzy Bailey is 81. Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is 78. Jazz musician Maceo Parker is 77. Movie director Alan Parker is 76. Journalist Carl Bernstein is 76. Former Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., is 73. TV personality Pat O'Brien is 72. Magician Teller (Penn and Teller) is 72. Cajun singer-musician Michael Doucet (Beausoleil) is 69. Actor Ken Wahl is 63. Opera singer Renee Fleming is 61. Actress Meg Tilly is 60. Pro Football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly is 60. Singer-producer Dwayne Wiggins is 59. Actress Sakina Jaffey is 58. Actor Enrico Colantoni is 57. Actor Zach Galligan is 56. Actor Valente Rodriguez is 56. Rock musician Ricky Wolking (The Nixons) is 54. Former tennis player Manuela Maleeva is 53. Actor Simon Pegg is 50. Rock musician Kevin Baldes (Lit) is 48. Rock singer Rob Thomas (Matchbox Twenty) is 48. Former NFL quarterback Drew Bledsoe is 48. Actress Danai Gurira is 42. Actor Matt Barr is 36. Actress Stephanie Leonidas is 36. Actor Jake Lacy is 34. Actress Tiffany Thornton is 34. Actor Brett Dier is 30. Actor Freddie Highmore is 28.

Thought for Today: "We are effectively destroying ourselves by violence masquerading as love." — R.D. Laing, Scottish psychiatrist (1927-1989).

<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 Friday, Feb. 14, the 45th day of 2020. There are 321 days left in the year. This is Valentine's Day.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 14, 2018, a gunman identified as a former student opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School near Fort Lauderdale, Florida, killing 17 people in the nation's deadliest school shooting since the attack in Newtown, Connecticut, more than five years earlier.On this date:In 1859, Oregon was admitted to the Union as the 33rd state.In 1876, inventors Alexander Graham Bell and Elisha Gray applied separately for patents related to the telephone. (The U.S. Supreme Court eventually ruled Bell the rightful inventor.)In 1912, Arizona became the 48th state of the Union as President William Howard Taft signed a proclamation.In 1913, labor leader Jimmy Hoffa was born in Brazil, Ind.; college football coach Woody Hayes was born in Clifton, Ohio; sports broadcaster Mel Allen was born in Birmingham, Ala.In 1929, the "St. Valentine's Day Massacre" took place in a Chicago garage as seven rivals of Al Capone's gang were gunned down.In 1945, during World War II, British and Canadian forces reached the Rhine River in Germany.In 1949, Israel's Knesset convened for the first time.In 1967, Aretha Franklin recorded her cover of Otis Redding's "Respect" at Atlantic Records in New York.In 1979, Adolph Dubs, the U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, was kidnapped in Kabul by Muslim extremists and killed in a shootout between his abductors and police.In 1984, 6-year-old Stormie Jones became the world's first heart-liver transplant recipient when the surgery was performed at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (she lived until November 1990).In 1985, Cable News Network reporter Jeremy Levin, held hostage by extremists in Lebanon, escaped from his captors.In 2013, double-amputee and Olympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, at his home in Pretoria, South Africa; he was later convicted of murder and is serving a 13-year prison term. American Airlines and US Airways announced an $11 billion merger that turned American into the world's biggest airline.Ten years ago: The Americans broke through the Nordic combined barrier at Vancouver as Johnny Spillane won the silver, the first U.S. Olympic medal in the sport dominated since its inception by the Europeans (Jason Lamy Chappuis of France won the gold). Jamie McMurray won the Daytona 500. The Eastern Conference edged the West 141-139 in the NBA All-Star game in Arlington, Texas. Larry Ellison's space-age trimaran completed a two-race sweep in the 33rd America's Cup. Death claimed best-selling British author Dick Francis at age 89 and Doug Fieger, leader of the power pop band The Knack, at age 57.Five years ago: A Danish gunman attacked a free-speech seminar and a synagogue in Copenhagen, killing two people; the shooter was later slain by a special police team. Actor Louis Jourdan, 93, died in Beverly Hills, California. Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Philip Levine, 87, died in Fresno, California.One year ago: William Barr was sworn in for his second stint as the nation's attorney general; he succeeded Jeff Sessions, who'd been pushed out of office by President Donald Trump after Trump denounced Sessions' decision to recuse himself from the Russia investigation. Amazon abruptly dropped plans for a big new headquarters in New York after politicians and activists objected to the nearly $3 billion in incentives that had been promised to the company. European aviation giant Airbus said it would stop making its superjumbo A380 in 2021 after struggling to sell the plane, the world's biggest passenger jet.Today's Birthdays: TV personality Hugh Downs is 99. Actor Andrew Prine is 84. Country singer Razzy Bailey is 81. Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is 78. Jazz musician Maceo Parker is 77. Movie director Alan Parker is 76. Journalist Carl Bernstein is 76. Former Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., is 73. TV personality Pat O'Brien is 72. Magician Teller (Penn and Teller) is 72. Cajun singer-musician Michael Doucet (Beausoleil) is 69. Actor Ken Wahl is 63. Opera singer Renee Fleming is 61. Actress Meg Tilly is 60. Pro Football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly is 60. Singer-producer Dwayne Wiggins is 59. Actress Sakina Jaffey is 58. Actor Enrico Colantoni is 57. Actor Zach Galligan is 56. Actor Valente Rodriguez is 56. Rock musician Ricky Wolking (The Nixons) is 54. Former tennis player Manuela Maleeva is 53. Actor Simon Pegg is 50. Rock musician Kevin Baldes (Lit) is 48. Rock singer Rob Thomas (Matchbox Twenty) is 48. Former NFL quarterback Drew Bledsoe is 48. Actress Danai Gurira is 42. Actor Matt Barr is 36. Actress Stephanie Leonidas is 36. Actor Jake Lacy is 34. Actress Tiffany Thornton is 34. Actor Brett Dier is 30. Actor Freddie Highmore is 28.Thought for Today: "We are effectively destroying ourselves by violence masquerading as love." — R.D. Laing, Scottish psychiatrist (1927-1989).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Feb. 14

Good information to remember. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasEmergency/">Kansas Division of Emergency Management</a> Facebook page:

Good information to remember. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasEmergency/">Kansas Division of Emergency Management</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasEmergency%2Fposts%2F10157269310797984&width=500" width="500" height="594" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Know the signs of cold weather health issues



HAYS – A total of 921 students completed associate, bachelor’s or graduate degrees at Fort Hays State University in the fall 2019 semester.

The university conferred graduate degrees (master’s and Education Specialist degrees) on 248 students,&nbsp;bachelor’s degrees on 648 students,&nbsp;and associate degrees on 25 students.&nbsp;Thirteen students graduated with two degrees.

Graduates are listed with their degrees and majors and, in parentheses, areas of concentration. Graduates who requested privacy are included in the count but omitted from this listing.

FHSU&nbsp;does not release degree lists until transcripts have been verified as having met all requirements for graduation.

Graduates are arranged alphabetically by home county, city and zip code.&nbsp;

Local and area graduates include the following.

Clay Center (67432):&nbsp;Sarah Armstrong, an Education Specialist in advanced professional studies (education administration).

Theodore Quinten Brown, a Master of Science in education administration.

Briana Marie Thompson, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management.

Green (67447):&nbsp;Traci Elizabeth Johnson, a Master of Science in Education (library specialist).

Clyde (66938):&nbsp;Faye Y. Cyr, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Concordia (66901):&nbsp;Amber Renee Lindberg, a Master of Science in counseling (clinical mental health).

Maddison Ann Peltier, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Bradley Joseph Swihart, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management information systems.



Abilene (67410):&nbsp;Jayme Lea Friederich, a Bachelor of Science in secondary education.

Jennifer Grace Petz, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Enterprise (67441):&nbsp;Afton Elizabeth Diehl, a Master of Science in education administration.

Herington (67449):&nbsp;Alexandria D. Hawkes, a Bachelor of Arts in political science.

Solomon (67480):&nbsp;Casen M. Brown, a Bachelor of Science in technology studies (construction management).

Lauren Kay Cross, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management (human resource).

White City (67451):&nbsp;Adam M. Sobba, a Master of Science in education administration.

Ellsworth (67439):&nbsp;Danica Lee Uhl, a Master of Science in education administration.

Wilson (67490):&nbsp;Megan Nicole Zelenka, a Bachelor of Science in general science.

Burr Oak (66936):&nbsp;Lexis Kennedy Jeffery, a Bachelor of Science in medical diagnostic imaging.

Lincoln (67455):&nbsp;Breanna Dawn Meier, a Bachelor of Science in biology (education) and a Bachelor of Science in secondary education.

Sylvan Grove (67481):&nbsp;Courtney S. Batchman, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Tanner Kubick, a Bachelor of Science in biology (natural resources).



Marion (66861):&nbsp;Katherine A. Young, a Master of Liberal Studies (public administration).

Peabody (66866):&nbsp;Storm S. Pickens, a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance.

Canton (67428):&nbsp;Rebecca S. Ryan, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

McPherson (67460):&nbsp;Hannah Marie Frazer, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Jennifer M. Labes, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Taylor Nicole Stucky, a Master of Science in Education (transition to teaching).

Darian Trost, a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

Cassidy Jean Wedel, a Bachelor of Science in tourism and hospitality management.

Melisa Jane White, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Moundridge (67107):&nbsp;Travis Jay Schafer, a Master of Science in education administration.

Windom (67491):&nbsp;Samantha Anne Wright, a Master of Business Administration (human resource management).

Beloit (67420):&nbsp;Abigail Marie Bean, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Shane Ryan Britt, a Master of Science in Education (higher education student affairs).

Lynne A. Easter, a Master of Science in special education (high Incidence).

Madison Marie Hewitt, a Bachelor of Science in medical diagnostic imaging.

Faron Steven Nelson, a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing.

Tammie Radena Nelson, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management.

Hailey Marie Princ, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Cawker City (67430):&nbsp;Jordan James Flower, a Bachelor of Science in medical diagnostic imaging.

Tipton (67485):&nbsp;Delaney Marie Weisel, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Bennington (67422):&nbsp;Nancy Diane Cumberland, a Bachelor of General Studies (education).

Ryein Paige Hensley, a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

Minneapolis (67467):&nbsp;Bethany Jane Corman, a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing.

Andrew Hunter Helget, a Bachelor of Science in agricultural business.

David T. Johns, a Bachelor of Science in agricultural business.

Tescott (67484):&nbsp;Katie Michelle Berkley, a Master of Science in Education (reading specialist).

Cuba (66940):&nbsp;Nickalous Glen Baxa, a Bachelor of Science in agriculture.

Nancy Marie Zenger-Beneda, an Education Specialist in advanced professional studies (education administration).



Assaria (67416):&nbsp;Kyler Suhr, a Bachelor of Science in agriculture (animal science).

Gypsum (67448):&nbsp;Maggie Chitty, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Salina (67401):&nbsp;Claudia Jeanette Aranda, a Bachelor of General Studies (education).

Austin G. Bieberly, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art (studio).

Cynthia Diane Chavez, a Master of Science in Education (reading specialist).

Kristen Taylor Creek, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

Shelby Dinkel, a Master of Science in instructional technology.

Jasmin Garcia, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art (studio).

Brianna Marie Klein, a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry.

Spencer Andrew Kochanowski, a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

Brooklyn Rae McCauley, a Bachelor of General Studies (education).

Billy T. Nguyen, a Bachelor of Science in information networking and telecommunications (Web and mobile application development).

Robert Edward Rhodes, a Bachelor of General Studies (criminal justice).

Todd Robinett, a Master of Science in Education (transition to teaching).

Amanda Leigh Scheppelmann, a Master of Science in special education (high Incidence).

Madalynn Nicole Schreiber, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art (interior design).

Brittni Marie Steinle, an Associate of General Studies (child development).

Anna White, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Kalicia Danelle Wilson, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.



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

HAYS – A total of 921 students completed associate, bachelor’s or graduate degrees at Fort Hays State University in the fall 2019 semester.The university conferred graduate degrees (master’s and Education Specialist degrees) on 248 students,&nbsp;bachelor’s degrees on 648 students,&nbsp;and associate degrees on 25 students.&nbsp;Thirteen students graduated with two degrees.Graduates are listed with their degrees and majors and, in parentheses, areas of concentration. Graduates who requested privacy are included in the count but omitted from this listing.FHSU&nbsp;does not release degree lists until transcripts have been verified as having met all requirements for graduation.Graduates are arranged alphabetically by home county, city and zip code.&nbsp;Local and area graduates include the following.CLAY COUNTYClay Center (67432):&nbsp;Sarah Armstrong, an Education Specialist in advanced professional studies (education administration).Theodore Quinten Brown, a Master of Science in education administration.Briana Marie Thompson, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management.Green (67447):&nbsp;Traci Elizabeth Johnson, a Master of Science in Education (library specialist).CLOUD&nbsp;COUNTYClyde (66938):&nbsp;Faye Y. Cyr, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.Concordia (66901):&nbsp;Amber Renee Lindberg, a Master of Science in counseling (clinical mental health).Maddison Ann Peltier, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Bradley Joseph Swihart, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management information systems.

DICKINSON&nbsp;COUNTYAbilene (67410):&nbsp;Jayme Lea Friederich, a Bachelor of Science in secondary education.Jennifer Grace Petz, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Enterprise (67441):&nbsp;Afton Elizabeth Diehl, a Master of Science in education administration.Herington (67449):&nbsp;Alexandria D. Hawkes, a Bachelor of Arts in political science.Solomon (67480):&nbsp;Casen M. Brown, a Bachelor of Science in technology studies (construction management).Lauren Kay Cross, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management (human resource).White City (67451):&nbsp;Adam M. Sobba, a Master of Science in education administration.

ELLSWORTH&nbsp;COUNTYEllsworth (67439):&nbsp;Danica Lee Uhl, a Master of Science in education administration.Wilson (67490):&nbsp;Megan Nicole Zelenka, a Bachelor of Science in general science.

JEWELL&nbsp;COUNTYBurr Oak (66936):&nbsp;Lexis Kennedy Jeffery, a Bachelor of Science in medical diagnostic imaging.

LINCOLN&nbsp;COUNTYLincoln (67455):&nbsp;Breanna Dawn Meier, a Bachelor of Science in biology (education) and a Bachelor of Science in secondary education.Sylvan Grove (67481):&nbsp;Courtney S. Batchman, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Tanner Kubick, a Bachelor of Science in biology (natural resources).

MARION&nbsp;COUNTYMarion (66861):&nbsp;Katherine A. Young, a Master of Liberal Studies (public administration).Peabody (66866):&nbsp;Storm S. Pickens, a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance.McPHERSON&nbsp;COUNTYCanton (67428):&nbsp;Rebecca S. Ryan, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.McPherson (67460):&nbsp;Hannah Marie Frazer, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.Jennifer M. Labes, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Taylor Nicole Stucky, a Master of Science in Education (transition to teaching).Darian Trost, a Bachelor of Science in psychology.Cassidy Jean Wedel, a Bachelor of Science in tourism and hospitality management.Melisa Jane White, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.Moundridge (67107):&nbsp;Travis Jay Schafer, a Master of Science in education administration.Windom (67491):&nbsp;Samantha Anne Wright, a Master of Business Administration (human resource management).

MITCHELL&nbsp;COUNTYBeloit (67420):&nbsp;Abigail Marie Bean, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.Shane Ryan Britt, a Master of Science in Education (higher education student affairs).Lynne A. Easter, a Master of Science in special education (high Incidence).Madison Marie Hewitt, a Bachelor of Science in medical diagnostic imaging.Faron Steven Nelson, a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing.Tammie Radena Nelson, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management.Hailey Marie Princ, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Cawker City (67430):&nbsp;Jordan James Flower, a Bachelor of Science in medical diagnostic imaging.Tipton (67485):&nbsp;Delaney Marie Weisel, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.

OTTAWA&nbsp;COUNTYBennington (67422):&nbsp;Nancy Diane Cumberland, a Bachelor of General Studies (education).Ryein Paige Hensley, a Bachelor of Science in psychology.Minneapolis (67467):&nbsp;Bethany Jane Corman, a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing.Andrew Hunter Helget, a Bachelor of Science in agricultural business.David T. Johns, a Bachelor of Science in agricultural business.Tescott (67484):&nbsp;Katie Michelle Berkley, a Master of Science in Education (reading specialist).

REPUBLIC&nbsp;COUNTYCuba (66940):&nbsp;Nickalous Glen Baxa, a Bachelor of Science in agriculture.Nancy Marie Zenger-Beneda, an Education Specialist in advanced professional studies (education administration).

SALINE&nbsp;COUNTYAssaria (67416):&nbsp;Kyler Suhr, a Bachelor of Science in agriculture (animal science).Gypsum (67448):&nbsp;Maggie Chitty, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.Salina (67401):&nbsp;Claudia Jeanette Aranda, a Bachelor of General Studies (education).Austin G. Bieberly, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art (studio).Cynthia Diane Chavez, a Master of Science in Education (reading specialist).Kristen Taylor Creek, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.Shelby Dinkel, a Master of Science in instructional technology.Jasmin Garcia, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art (studio).Brianna Marie Klein, a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry.Spencer Andrew Kochanowski, a Bachelor of Science in psychology.Brooklyn Rae McCauley, a Bachelor of General Studies (education).Billy T. Nguyen, a Bachelor of Science in information networking and telecommunications (Web and mobile application development).Robert Edward Rhodes, a Bachelor of General Studies (criminal justice).Todd Robinett, a Master of Science in Education (transition to teaching).Amanda Leigh Scheppelmann, a Master of Science in special education (high Incidence).Madalynn Nicole Schreiber, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art (interior design).Brittni Marie Steinle, an Associate of General Studies (child development).Anna White, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Kalicia Danelle Wilson, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

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

FHSU announces fall 2019 graduates

Tom Neilson, singer-songwriter and social activist, along with Partner Lynn Waldron, will bring love, passion, and satire to Salina at The Valentine’s Day concert Friday.

The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday in the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 901 Beatrice, donation of $10-20 at the door. Bring your significant other (or just yourself) for significant music on significant issues. 

He can also be heard in the regular UU Worship service Sunday,  February 16, 10:30 a.m. 

Neilson’s 2018 Salina concert played to rave reviews.  He has been described as “the Jon Stewart of folk music.”  A veteran of stage and street theater, he combines talents of writing, acting, and directing.   His songs draw in listeners and raise human consciousness in an era of diminished belief in human worth and dignity.

Neilson plays at colleges, conferences, cafes, union halls, and house concerts, on behalf of countless benefits and causes. His music has been used in documentaries, television shows, stage and street theater. In the spirit of Woody Guthrie, he tells the stories of people’s struggles against greed &amp; violence, interjecting levity and laughter along the way.

A winner at Kerrville and South Florida singer/songwriter festivals, he also won IMA’s Song of the Year. He was also nominated for the UN Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award.

Fellow musicians and audiences find him “incisive, warm, &amp; very funny, a storyteller’s storyteller.”  Tom Paxton says, “Very good music, very good politics.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581646825656.png" alt="Tom Neilson. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tom Neilson. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Tom Neilson, singer-songwriter and social activist, along with Partner Lynn Waldron, will bring love, passion, and satire to Salina at The Valentine’s Day concert Friday.The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday in the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 901 Beatrice, donation of $10-20 at the door. Bring your significant other (or just yourself) for significant music on significant issues. He can also be heard in the regular UU Worship service Sunday, February 16, 10:30 a.m. Neilson’s 2018 Salina concert played to rave reviews. He has been described as “the Jon Stewart of folk music.” A veteran of stage and street theater, he combines talents of writing, acting, and directing. His songs draw in listeners and raise human consciousness in an era of diminished belief in human worth and dignity.Neilson plays at colleges, conferences, cafes, union halls, and house concerts, on behalf of countless benefits and causes. His music has been used in documentaries, television shows, stage and street theater. In the spirit of Woody Guthrie, he tells the stories of people’s struggles against greed &amp; violence, interjecting levity and laughter along the way.A winner at Kerrville and South Florida singer/songwriter festivals, he also won IMA’s Song of the Year. He was also nominated for the UN Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award.Fellow musicians and audiences find him “incisive, warm, &amp; very funny, a storyteller’s storyteller.” Tom Paxton says, “Very good music, very good politics.”

Neilson valentine concert highlights need for love

TOPEKA – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today the award of more than $17 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to 39 Kansas communities.

A total of $17,486,103 in federal funds is being made available through the CDBG program this year. Communities receiving grants have presented plans for projects to make improvements toward water and wastewater systems, streets, facilities, and housing.

“Quality of life is key to economic development,” Secretary Toland said. “Each of these investments in critical infrastructure helps keep communities competitive as they work to retain and recruit residents and businesses. Governor Kelly and I are proud to support these projects in rural communities across our state.”

CDBG funds are one of Commerce’s primary tools in supporting the state’s small, predominantly rural communities. Each community awarded has a population less than 50,000.

The CDBG program allows the Department of Commerce to distribute federal funds to Kansas cities and counties looking to improve their communities. To receive funds, projects must meet at least one of the following federally mandated criteria:

The project benefits low- or moderate-income individuals

The project removes or prevents slum or blight conditions

The project eliminates an urgent need created by a disaster when local funds are unavailable

Grants in this category are awarded through an annual competition and support a variety of activities in communities throughout the state of Kansas.

The following communities in our area are recipients of Community Development Block Grants.

The&nbsp;City of Concordia&nbsp;will receive $561,660 in CDBG funds to make sanitary sewer and storm sewer improvements in the city. The city has local funds of $561,661 to contribute in matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Miltonvale&nbsp;will receive $35,212 in CDBG funds to complete a demolition project. The city will contribute a total of $35,213 through local city funds, force account construction and landfill fees.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Chapman&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to build a non-discharging wastewater treatment facility to serve the city. The city will provide $3,535,794 in matching funds it secured through USDA Rural Development.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Solomon&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to make water distribution system improvements throughout the city. The city will provide $1,416,424 in matching funds they have secured through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Lincoln Center&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to make water distribution system improvements throughout the city. The city will provide $605,961 in matching funds they have secured through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Marion&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to make water distribution improvements throughout the city. The city will provide $3,334,478 in matching funds they have secured through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of McPherson&nbsp;will receive $300,000 in CDBG funds to rehabilitate approximately 13 homes for low- to moderate-income families. The city will provide $72,710 in local matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Minneapolis&nbsp;will receive $300,000 in CDBG funds to rehabilitate eight homes for owner-occupied and rental residents and demolish one unoccupied dilapidated housing unit. The city will provide $13,700 in local matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;City of Belleville&nbsp;will receive $175,000 in CDBG grant funds to purchase a new Standard Pumper Fire Truck. The city will contribute $175,000 in local city matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

TOPEKA – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today the award of more than $17 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to 39 Kansas communities.A total of $17,486,103 in federal funds is being made available through the CDBG program this year. Communities receiving grants have presented plans for projects to make improvements toward water and wastewater systems, streets, facilities, and housing.“Quality of life is key to economic development,” Secretary Toland said. “Each of these investments in critical infrastructure helps keep communities competitive as they work to retain and recruit residents and businesses. Governor Kelly and I are proud to support these projects in rural communities across our state.”CDBG funds are one of Commerce’s primary tools in supporting the state’s small, predominantly rural communities. Each community awarded has a population less than 50,000.The CDBG program allows the Department of Commerce to distribute federal funds to Kansas cities and counties looking to improve their communities. To receive funds, projects must meet at least one of the following federally mandated criteria:The project benefits low- or moderate-income individualsThe project removes or prevents slum or blight conditionsThe project eliminates an urgent need created by a disaster when local funds are unavailableGrants in this category are awarded through an annual competition and support a variety of activities in communities throughout the state of Kansas.The following communities in our area are recipients of Community Development Block Grants.The&nbsp;City of Concordia&nbsp;will receive $561,660 in CDBG funds to make sanitary sewer and storm sewer improvements in the city. The city has local funds of $561,661 to contribute in matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Miltonvale&nbsp;will receive $35,212 in CDBG funds to complete a demolition project. The city will contribute a total of $35,213 through local city funds, force account construction and landfill fees.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Chapman&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to build a non-discharging wastewater treatment facility to serve the city. The city will provide $3,535,794 in matching funds it secured through USDA Rural Development.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Solomon&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to make water distribution system improvements throughout the city. The city will provide $1,416,424 in matching funds they have secured through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Lincoln Center&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to make water distribution system improvements throughout the city. The city will provide $605,961 in matching funds they have secured through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Marion&nbsp;will receive $600,000 in CDBG funds to make water distribution improvements throughout the city. The city will provide $3,334,478 in matching funds they have secured through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of McPherson&nbsp;will receive $300,000 in CDBG funds to rehabilitate approximately 13 homes for low- to moderate-income families. The city will provide $72,710 in local matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Minneapolis&nbsp;will receive $300,000 in CDBG funds to rehabilitate eight homes for owner-occupied and rental residents and demolish one unoccupied dilapidated housing unit. The city will provide $13,700 in local matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;City of Belleville&nbsp;will receive $175,000 in CDBG grant funds to purchase a new Standard Pumper Fire Truck. The city will contribute $175,000 in local city matching funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Area towns awarded Community Development Block Grants

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.

<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