ELLSWORTH -- The students look like they were having fun learning about how to take care of their teeth while visiting Dr. Kurt Williams' Central Kansas Dentistry. Did you know that Williams was raised in Salina? From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD-327-EllsworthKanopolisGeneseo-245309362161657/">USD #327 Ellsworth/Kanopolis/Geneseo</a> Facebook page:

ELLSWORTH -- The students look like they were having fun learning about how to take care of their teeth while visiting Dr. Kurt Williams' Central Kansas Dentistry. Did you know that Williams was raised in Salina? From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD-327-EllsworthKanopolisGeneseo-245309362161657/">USD #327 Ellsworth/Kanopolis/Geneseo</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D4070070126352209%26id%3D245309362161657&width=500" width="500" height="707" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Students have fun learning about caring for teeth

Amy Grant has postponed her appearance on the Stiefel Theatre stage.

"We are very sorry to announce that due to circumstances 

beyond her control Amy Grant has had to postpone her March 6th concert at the Stiefel Theatre to Thursday, Oct. 22 @ 8pm," Jane Gates, executive director of the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, announced in an email this afternoon.

According to Gates, all tickets purchased for the March 6 show will be good for the Oct. 22 show. Persons with tickets who are not able to attend the Oct. 22 show are asked to contact the Stiefel Theatre to obtain a refund.

Additionally, Gates noted that less than 300 tickets remain for the show. Tickets can be purchased online at <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">stiefeltheatre.org</a> or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575998214026.jpeg" alt="Amy Grant. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Amy Grant. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>Amy Grant has postponed her appearance on the Stiefel Theatre stage."We are very sorry to announce that due to circumstances beyond her control Amy Grant has had to postpone her March 6th concert at the Stiefel Theatre to Thursday, Oct. 22 @ 8pm," Jane Gates, executive director of the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, announced in an email this afternoon.According to Gates, all tickets purchased for the March 6 show will be good for the Oct. 22 show. Persons with tickets who are not able to attend the Oct. 22 show are asked to contact the Stiefel Theatre to obtain a refund.Additionally, Gates noted that less than 300 tickets remain for the show. Tickets can be purchased online at <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">stiefeltheatre.org</a> or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998.

Amy Grant postpones concert in Salina's Stiefel Theatre

The Salina Police Department welcomes two new officers. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD/">Salina Police Department</a> Facebook page:

The Salina Police Department welcomes two new officers. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD/">Salina Police Department</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSalinaKSPD%2Fposts%2F2651670274888317&width=500" width="500" height="472" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Salina Police Department adds two officers

Temperatures are expected to warm up by the weekend, but first, we have to endure some frigid weather.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, much colder air and stout north winds will arrive by Wednesday night, sending wind chill values to near zero by early Thursday morning.

The cold snap will be short-lived, however, as temperatures are expected to reach the 50s to near 60 degrees this weekend, NWS noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581440524864.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Temperatures are expected to warm up by the weekend, but first, we have to endure some frigid weather.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, much colder air and stout north winds will arrive by Wednesday night, sending wind chill values to near zero by early Thursday morning.The cold snap will be short-lived, however, as temperatures are expected to reach the 50s to near 60 degrees this weekend, NWS noted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581440562852.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Frigid temperatures before weekend warmup

HUTCHINSON — Officers of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center’s (KLETC) 262nd basic training class donated money collected by the class to Morgan Elementary School Tuesday morning. 

The donation was part of the class’s legacy project, a project where each basic training class gives back to the community.

“Law enforcement is fundamentally a service profession,” said KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck.&nbsp; “Most officers go into the profession to make a difference in their communities.”

Morgan Elementary was selected because the officers wanted to help those children that needed assistance in paying for school lunches. Principal Bryan Cunningham accepted the donation on behalf of the student body.&nbsp;

The officers posed for photos with students and led the school in the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance before returning to their training at KLETC. Officer Jacob Hansel of the Salina Police Department was one of the officers that participated.

The Kansas Law Enforcement&nbsp;Training Center (KLETC) is located in Hutchinson, Kansas. Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC serves as the central law enforcement training facility for the state and as headquarters for all law enforcement training in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581449007164.jpeg" alt="Officer Jacob Hansel of the Salina Police Department, left at back, is part of the 262nd basic training class that donated to help students pay for lunches. Hansel and some of his classmates can be seen here with students from Morgan Elementary School in Hutchinson. Photo courtesy KLETC" />
 <figcaption>Officer Jacob Hansel of the Salina Police Department, left at back, is part of the 262nd basic training class that donated to help students pay for lunches. Hansel and some of his classmates can be seen here with students from Morgan Elementary School in Hutchinson. Photo courtesy KLETC</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON — Officers of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center’s (KLETC) 262nd basic training class donated money collected by the class to Morgan Elementary School Tuesday morning. The donation was part of the class’s legacy project, a project where each basic training class gives back to the community.“Law enforcement is fundamentally a service profession,” said KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck.&nbsp; “Most officers go into the profession to make a difference in their communities.”Morgan Elementary was selected because the officers wanted to help those children that needed assistance in paying for school lunches. Principal Bryan Cunningham accepted the donation on behalf of the student body.&nbsp;The officers posed for photos with students and led the school in the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance before returning to their training at KLETC. Officer Jacob Hansel of the Salina Police Department was one of the officers that participated.The Kansas Law Enforcement&nbsp;Training Center (KLETC) is located in Hutchinson, Kansas. Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC serves as the central law enforcement training facility for the state and as headquarters for all law enforcement training in Kansas.

SPD officer part of KLETC class donating to help students pay for lunch

The Court of Appeals Nominating Commission today announced the applicants for the upcoming vacancy on the Court of Appeals. 

The deadline to apply was 3 p.m. Friday. As of that deadline, the following Kansans had submitted their applications for consideration:

Kristopher R. Ailslieger,&nbsp;Topeka

Randall L. Hodgkinson,&nbsp;Topeka

Sarah J. Loquist-Berry,&nbsp;Topeka

Dave J. Rempel,&nbsp;Overland Park

The Commission will interview applicants on Monday, February 24, and Tuesday, February 25 to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Kansas Court of Appeals created by the April 3, 2020 retirement of Judge G. Joseph Pierron Jr.

Interviews will be in a meeting room in the Kansas Judicial Center, 301 SW 10th&nbsp;Ave., Topeka, and are open to the public.

The interview schedule will be announced at a later date. All updates may be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgovernor.kansas.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C02059b72d7e449b86a5d08d7af01a84b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637170293952660749&amp;sdata=80FNuUjJuFrHcOVcftU%2FxSrBRG34WqhVyyWYdq2NH%2BI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/press-releases/</a>.&nbsp;

Governor Laura Kelly signed Executive Order 20-01 on Tuesday, January 28, establishing the Court of Appeals Nominating Commission. Under Kansas law, the Governor appoints judges to the Court of Appeals subject to confirmation by the Senate. The Commission will review each applicant’s background and qualifications, conduct interviews and then submit three nominees for the Governor to consider.

The Court of Appeals Nominating Commission today announced the applicants for the upcoming vacancy on the Court of Appeals. The deadline to apply was 3 p.m. Friday. As of that deadline, the following Kansans had submitted their applications for consideration:Kristopher R. Ailslieger,&nbsp;TopekaDaniel Cahill,&nbsp;Kansas CityNatalie A. Chalmers,&nbsp;LenexaAmy Fellows Cline,&nbsp;WichitaAngela D. Coble,&nbsp;SalinaDennis D. Depew,&nbsp;NeodeshaCarl A. Folsom III,&nbsp;LawrenceRandall L. Hodgkinson,&nbsp;TopekaLesley A. Isherwood,&nbsp;WichitaMichael P. Joyce,&nbsp;LeawoodRussell J. Keller,&nbsp;FairwaySarah J. Loquist-Berry,&nbsp;TopekaSteven J. Obermeier,&nbsp;OlatheStephen O. Phillips,&nbsp;PerryDave J. Rempel,&nbsp;Overland ParkDiane H. Sorensen,&nbsp;WichitaSuzanne Valdez,&nbsp;LawrenceKristen D. Wheeler,&nbsp;WichitaMarcia A. Wood,&nbsp;WichitaThe Commission will interview applicants on Monday, February 24, and Tuesday, February 25 to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Kansas Court of Appeals created by the April 3, 2020 retirement of Judge G. Joseph Pierron Jr.Interviews will be in a meeting room in the Kansas Judicial Center, 301 SW 10th&nbsp;Ave., Topeka, and are open to the public.The interview schedule will be announced at a later date. All updates may be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgovernor.kansas.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C02059b72d7e449b86a5d08d7af01a84b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637170293952660749&amp;sdata=80FNuUjJuFrHcOVcftU%2FxSrBRG34WqhVyyWYdq2NH%2BI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/press-releases/</a>.&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly signed Executive Order 20-01 on Tuesday, January 28, establishing the Court of Appeals Nominating Commission. Under Kansas law, the Governor appoints judges to the Court of Appeals subject to confirmation by the Senate. The Commission will review each applicant’s background and qualifications, conduct interviews and then submit three nominees for the Governor to consider.

Salinan among applicants for appellate court vacancy

The Salina Area United Way (SAUW) is partnering with United Way Worldwide to celebrate National 2-1-1 Day on Tuesday to recognize and spread awareness about the free resource number and website.

Supported by United Way, the 2-1-1 program was first launched in 1997 as a way to connect people with essential resources in their communities. The free, confidential, easy to remember phone number, website (<a href="http://211kansas.com">211kansas.com</a>) or by texting your ZIP code to 898211 connects the SAUW's 10-county service area residents to essential community information and services such as healthcare, rent and mortgage assistance, food and shelter, job training, transportation, childcare, senior care, veteran services, and much more.

Every day, highly trained 2-1-1 contact specialists help callers access basic needs assistance, community resources and financial stability programs. Contact specialists also help callers in distress find relief when they are faced with food insecurity, homelessness, a mental health crisis or addiction. In the SAUW's 10-county service area, data reveals that more than 1,300 total requests for assistance were received in 2019.       

“Each and every day, someone in our 10-county service area needs essential services. Whether they need help for weather disaster or in everyday situations such as finding free tax preparation such as VITA, 2-1-1 powered by United Way helps people find important health and human services in our local community,” said Claire Mullen, SAUW executive director.

For more information and help with housing, utilities, crisis, emergency, health and food assistance, call 211, visit <a href="http://211kansas.com">211kansas.com</a> or text your zip code to 898211. For more information about Salina Area United Way, visit <a href="http://www.unitedwaysalina.org">www.unitedwaysalina.org</a> or contact SAUW at 785-827-1312.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581391526748.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy SAUW" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy SAUW</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Area United Way (SAUW) is partnering with United Way Worldwide to celebrate National 2-1-1 Day on Tuesday to recognize and spread awareness about the free resource number and website.Supported by United Way, the 2-1-1 program was first launched in 1997 as a way to connect people with essential resources in their communities. The free, confidential, easy to remember phone number, website (<a href="http://211kansas.com">211kansas.com</a>) or by texting your ZIP code to 898211 connects the SAUW's 10-county service area residents to essential community information and services such as healthcare, rent and mortgage assistance, food and shelter, job training, transportation, childcare, senior care, veteran services, and much more.Every day, highly trained 2-1-1 contact specialists help callers access basic needs assistance, community resources and financial stability programs. Contact specialists also help callers in distress find relief when they are faced with food insecurity, homelessness, a mental health crisis or addiction. In the SAUW's 10-county service area, data reveals that more than 1,300 total requests for assistance were received in 2019. “Each and every day, someone in our 10-county service area needs essential services. Whether they need help for weather disaster or in everyday situations such as finding free tax preparation such as VITA, 2-1-1 powered by United Way helps people find important health and human services in our local community,” said Claire Mullen, SAUW executive director.For more information and help with housing, utilities, crisis, emergency, health and food assistance, call 211, visit <a href="http://211kansas.com">211kansas.com</a> or text your zip code to 898211. For more information about Salina Area United Way, visit <a href="http://www.unitedwaysalina.org">www.unitedwaysalina.org</a> or contact SAUW at 785-827-1312.

Local United Way celebrating National 2-1-1 Day

Students who visit the Cloud County Community College campuses between now and Feb. 29 have a chance to win free books for a year as part of the Admissions Department's Spring Visit Days.

All prospective students who visit the Concordia or Geary County campuses until Feb. 29 will be entered into a drawing to win free books from the college T-Bird Bookstore for the 2020-2021 academic year. Not having to buy textbooks can save students up to $1,500. Six students will be drawn at random to receive the free books.

To schedule a visit to the Geary County campus in Junction City, contact Student Services at 800-729-5101, extension 750.

To schedule a visit to the Concordia campus, contact the Admissions office at 800-729-5101, extension 212. Visits can also be scheduled through the Admissions website dat www.cloud.edu/Admissions, and clicking the "Schedule a Campus Visit" button.

Students who visit the Cloud County Community College campuses between now and Feb. 29 have a chance to win free books for a year as part of the Admissions Department's Spring Visit Days.All prospective students who visit the Concordia or Geary County campuses until Feb. 29 will be entered into a drawing to win free books from the college T-Bird Bookstore for the 2020-2021 academic year. Not having to buy textbooks can save students up to $1,500. Six students will be drawn at random to receive the free books.To schedule a visit to the Geary County campus in Junction City, contact Student Services at 800-729-5101, extension 750.To schedule a visit to the Concordia campus, contact the Admissions office at 800-729-5101, extension 212. Visits can also be scheduled through the Admissions website dat www.cloud.edu/Admissions, and clicking the "Schedule a Campus Visit" button.

Cloud County Community College campus visitors can win free books

HAYS -– McPherson will be among three locations at which Fort Hays State University will offer free hearing screenings in the near future.

The screenings are funded by the Kansas Masons, according to information from FHSU. The other upcoming locations are Garden City and Sharon Springs. 

The McPherson screening, sponsored by McPherson Masonic Lodge No. 172, will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 28, at McPherson Lodge No. 172, 311 South Main Street.

“The FHSU Herndon Clinic in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is very fortunate to have received a large grant from the Kansas Masons to support adult speech, language and hearing services in western Kansas,” said Marcy Beougher, speech-language pathologist and an instructor in the department.

The grant continues to provide numerous opportunities for individuals of all ages in western Kansas to receive important health screening services that are currently scarce or difficult to access.

“We are in the second semester of our fourth year of free hearing screenings sponsored by the Kansas Masonic grant,” said Beougher. “Our graduates have screened over 750 people in 21 central and western Kansas communities.”

“It is a valuable service with an average of over 60 percent referrals for medical and audiological needs. Our graduate students have also benefitted greatly from this program. Over 80 students have participated to date, each gaining valuable clinical hours necessary for graduation,” she said.

Scheduling appointments is encouraged, but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site will have four stations, with each screening lasting approximately 15 minutes. Results, follow-up information, and earplugs will also be provided. There will be no hearing aid sales.

Screenings are provided by graduate students from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Beougher will organize the screenings.

“We are incredibly thankful for the financial support from the Kansas Masonic Foundation, which has helped us take this important free service to individuals in numerous locations in Kansas,” said Beougher.

“The Masons at every lodge we have visited have been so accommodating and eager to do anything they could to help us promote and set up these clinics,” she added.

To schedule an appointment for the McPherson screening, contact Patrick Carr at 479-549-5058 or <a href="mailto:carrs@cox.net">carrs@cox.net</a>.

HAYS -– McPherson will be among three locations at which Fort Hays State University will offer free hearing screenings in the near future.The screenings are funded by the Kansas Masons, according to information from FHSU. The other upcoming locations are Garden City and Sharon Springs. The McPherson screening, sponsored by McPherson Masonic Lodge No. 172, will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 28, at McPherson Lodge No. 172, 311 South Main Street.“The FHSU Herndon Clinic in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is very fortunate to have received a large grant from the Kansas Masons to support adult speech, language and hearing services in western Kansas,” said Marcy Beougher, speech-language pathologist and an instructor in the department.The grant continues to provide numerous opportunities for individuals of all ages in western Kansas to receive important health screening services that are currently scarce or difficult to access.“We are in the second semester of our fourth year of free hearing screenings sponsored by the Kansas Masonic grant,” said Beougher. “Our graduates have screened over 750 people in 21 central and western Kansas communities.”“It is a valuable service with an average of over 60 percent referrals for medical and audiological needs. Our graduate students have also benefitted greatly from this program. Over 80 students have participated to date, each gaining valuable clinical hours necessary for graduation,” she said.Scheduling appointments is encouraged, but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site will have four stations, with each screening lasting approximately 15 minutes. Results, follow-up information, and earplugs will also be provided. There will be no hearing aid sales.Screenings are provided by graduate students from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Beougher will organize the screenings.“We are incredibly thankful for the financial support from the Kansas Masonic Foundation, which has helped us take this important free service to individuals in numerous locations in Kansas,” said Beougher.“The Masons at every lodge we have visited have been so accommodating and eager to do anything they could to help us promote and set up these clinics,” she added.To schedule an appointment for the McPherson screening, contact Patrick Carr at 479-549-5058 or <a href="mailto:carrs@cox.net">carrs@cox.net</a>.

McPherson among spring 2020 free hearing screenings from FHSU

While the folks who run the Legislature are figuring out what to do about that abortion resolution, plus the expansion of Medicaid to about 130,000 Kansans, we’re thinking about…taxes.

There’s money available for some tax cuts this year, income taxes are always a good place to start and the House Tax Committee is looking at income tax cuts this week and who gets them.

Now, nobody doesn’t want their individual income taxes reduced. But whose taxes do you cut? And will those tax cuts get you enough votes to get re-elected to the House or Senate, because both chambers are up for re-election this year?

Do you cut taxes for the wealthier voters, who will be driving Buicks or better to the voting booth, or for the folks who drive to the voting place and wonder in the back of their minds whether their cars will start when they’re done?

One plan sounds good for the folks who send their shirts to the laundry for washing: De-couple individual income taxes from the December 2017 President Donald Trump tax cuts.

Remember that federal tax cut that Trump is still bragging about? It raised the federal standard deduction to $12,000 for singles and $24,700 for married couples filing jointly. That was nice, of course, but it triggered a state law which says if you take the federal standard deduction, you take the state standard deductions.&nbsp; That’s “coupling.”

So, if you are single, and have more than $12,000 in federal deductions, you take them, of course. But if you don’t beat that federal $12,000 floor, you are stuck with the state’s $3,000 standard deduction for singles, and $7,500 for marrieds filing jointly. That means Kansans filing as married/joint don’t get to take advantage of deductions of more than $7,500.

So, about 63,000 Kansans have itemized deductions worth about $61 million that…well, they can’t use. There’s a voting bloc that is probably important in some House and Senate districts.

Another way to go was proposed by Rep. Jim Gartner, D-Topeka, to boost the Kansas standard deduction from $3,000 to $4,000 for singles and $7,500 to $8,000 for those married/joint filers. It costs about $50 million in lost state revenue and would deliver a tax cut to about 1.2 million Kansans. Generally those not as well-heeled as the decoupling beneficiaries, but voters, nonetheless.

Which way to go? Depends on whom you are hoping to impress.

Of course, those 1.2 million Kansans who benefit from the Gartner proposal includes the 63,000 who benefit from decoupling, but probably not by enough to choose leather upholstery for that Buick. But for more than 1.1 million Kansans, it’s something, a little less cash they have to send to Topeka…

There’s enough money in the state treasury to do both plans, but it tightens the state budget and probably will mean less money for Democrat Gov. Laura Kelly to use for her 2022 re-election campaign. Not sure Republicans are going to enjoy that. They’ve already said that vetoing a decoupling last session essentially raised income taxes due to the flow-through of federal tax law on individual income tax filers.

Lots of other issues, broader issues that are currently tying up the Legislature. Abortion, Medicaid expansion, probably school finance at some point, and things like social services, highways and such.

But there’s nothing like taxes to get the attention of every voter, and there’s nothing like tax cuts to distract Kansans from nearly every other issue, is there?

How’s this come out? Too early to tell…

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141234707.png" alt="Martin Hawver" />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARTIN HAWVERWhile the folks who run the Legislature are figuring out what to do about that abortion resolution, plus the expansion of Medicaid to about 130,000 Kansans, we’re thinking about…taxes.Imagine that.There’s money available for some tax cuts this year, income taxes are always a good place to start and the House Tax Committee is looking at income tax cuts this week and who gets them.Now, nobody doesn’t want their individual income taxes reduced. But whose taxes do you cut? And will those tax cuts get you enough votes to get re-elected to the House or Senate, because both chambers are up for re-election this year?Do you cut taxes for the wealthier voters, who will be driving Buicks or better to the voting booth, or for the folks who drive to the voting place and wonder in the back of their minds whether their cars will start when they’re done?One plan sounds good for the folks who send their shirts to the laundry for washing: De-couple individual income taxes from the December 2017 President Donald Trump tax cuts.Remember that federal tax cut that Trump is still bragging about? It raised the federal standard deduction to $12,000 for singles and $24,700 for married couples filing jointly. That was nice, of course, but it triggered a state law which says if you take the federal standard deduction, you take the state standard deductions.&nbsp; That’s “coupling.”So, if you are single, and have more than $12,000 in federal deductions, you take them, of course. But if you don’t beat that federal $12,000 floor, you are stuck with the state’s $3,000 standard deduction for singles, and $7,500 for marrieds filing jointly. That means Kansans filing as married/joint don’t get to take advantage of deductions of more than $7,500.So, about 63,000 Kansans have itemized deductions worth about $61 million that…well, they can’t use. There’s a voting bloc that is probably important in some House and Senate districts.Another way to go was proposed by Rep. Jim Gartner, D-Topeka, to boost the Kansas standard deduction from $3,000 to $4,000 for singles and $7,500 to $8,000 for those married/joint filers. It costs about $50 million in lost state revenue and would deliver a tax cut to about 1.2 million Kansans. Generally those not as well-heeled as the decoupling beneficiaries, but voters, nonetheless.Which way to go? Depends on whom you are hoping to impress.Of course, those 1.2 million Kansans who benefit from the Gartner proposal includes the 63,000 who benefit from decoupling, but probably not by enough to choose leather upholstery for that Buick. But for more than 1.1 million Kansans, it’s something, a little less cash they have to send to Topeka…There’s enough money in the state treasury to do both plans, but it tightens the state budget and probably will mean less money for Democrat Gov. Laura Kelly to use for her 2022 re-election campaign. Not sure Republicans are going to enjoy that. They’ve already said that vetoing a decoupling last session essentially raised income taxes due to the flow-through of federal tax law on individual income tax filers.Lots of other issues, broader issues that are currently tying up the Legislature. Abortion, Medicaid expansion, probably school finance at some point, and things like social services, highways and such.But there’s nothing like taxes to get the attention of every voter, and there’s nothing like tax cuts to distract Kansans from nearly every other issue, is there?How’s this come out? Too early to tell…Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>.

At the Rail: Taxes and cuts are hot topics

CONCORDIA&nbsp; -- A new athletic facility is closer to reality after the Cloud County Community College Foundation received a $200,000 grant from the Sunderland Foundation.

The grant will be used to support the construction of an athletic facility on the Concordia campus. The state-of-the-art facility will allow Cloud athletes the ability to train and work on their skills in ways that have not been possible in the past. It will also serve as a recruiting tool for prospective student-athletes.

“We are all very excited to hear the news and appreciate the generosity of the Sunderland Foundation,” said CCCC Athletic Director Matt Bechard. “This amazing gift brings us a step closer to completing this project.”

The 20,680 square foot will feature a full-size basketball court, weight room, track runway, multi-purpose area, storage, and restrooms. It will be used by all 12 intercollegiate programs on campus.

“This is an amazing start to this huge fundraising effort&nbsp;and we are so incredibly grateful to have the continued support of The Sunderland Foundation,” said Cloud County Community College Foundation Director Heather Gennette. “We hope that this will be the push we need to entice others to donate to this much-needed facility.”

The CCCC foundation has already secured nearly $128,000 in additional funds to be used for the new building. Gennette said the foundation will continue to pursue additional grant opportunities, partnerships, and fundraising to raise the $1.1 million needed for the project.

The Kansas City-based Sunderland Foundation was established in 1945. Since its inception, it has focused on supporting construction projects and awarding grants to tax-exempt organizations.&nbsp;In 2019, the Sunderland Foundation awarded more than $150 million to hospitals and health care organizations, human services nonprofits, higher education institutions, and arts and culture projects.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581371843333.jpeg" alt="A rendering of the new facility. Image courtesy CCCC" />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the new facility. Image courtesy CCCC</figcaption>
 </figure>CONCORDIA&nbsp; -- A new athletic facility is closer to reality after the Cloud County Community College Foundation received a $200,000 grant from the Sunderland Foundation.The grant will be used to support the construction of an athletic facility on the Concordia campus. The state-of-the-art facility will allow Cloud athletes the ability to train and work on their skills in ways that have not been possible in the past. It will also serve as a recruiting tool for prospective student-athletes.“We are all very excited to hear the news and appreciate the generosity of the Sunderland Foundation,” said CCCC Athletic Director Matt Bechard. “This amazing gift brings us a step closer to completing this project.”The 20,680 square foot will feature a full-size basketball court, weight room, track runway, multi-purpose area, storage, and restrooms. It will be used by all 12 intercollegiate programs on campus.“This is an amazing start to this huge fundraising effort&nbsp;and we are so incredibly grateful to have the continued support of The Sunderland Foundation,” said Cloud County Community College Foundation Director Heather Gennette. “We hope that this will be the push we need to entice others to donate to this much-needed facility.”The CCCC foundation has already secured nearly $128,000 in additional funds to be used for the new building. Gennette said the foundation will continue to pursue additional grant opportunities, partnerships, and fundraising to raise the $1.1 million needed for the project.The Kansas City-based Sunderland Foundation was established in 1945. Since its inception, it has focused on supporting construction projects and awarding grants to tax-exempt organizations.&nbsp;In 2019, the Sunderland Foundation awarded more than $150 million to hospitals and health care organizations, human services nonprofits, higher education institutions, and arts and culture projects.--<a href="http://cloud.edu">CCCC</a>--

CCCC receives $200,000 grant toward new athletic facility

Today is Tuesday, Feb. 11, the 42nd day of 2020. There are 324 days left in the year.

On Feb. 11, 1979, followers of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini seized power in Iran.

In 1531, the Church of England grudgingly accepted King Henry VIII as its supreme head.

In 1861, President-elect Abraham Lincoln bade farewell to his adopted hometown of Springfield, Ill., as he headed to Washington for his inauguration.

In 1937, a six-week-old sit-down strike against General Motors ended, with the company agreeing to recognize the United Automobile Workers Union.

In 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Soviet leader Josef Stalin signed the Yalta Agreement, in which Stalin agreed to declare war against Imperial Japan following Nazi Germany's capitulation.

In 1968, New York City's fourth and current Madison Square Garden, located on Manhattan's West Side at the site of what used to be the Pennsylvania Station building, opened with a "Salute to the USO" hosted by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. (The same evening, the New York Rangers played their final game at the third Garden, tying the Detroit Red Wings 3-3.)

In 1975, Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party.

In 1990, South African black activist Nelson Mandela was freed after 27 years in captivity.

In 2008, the Pentagon charged Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and five other detainees at Guantanamo Bay with murder and war crimes in connection with the Sept. 11 attacks.

In 2011, Egypt exploded with joy after pro-democracy protesters brought down President Hosni Mubarak, whose resignation ended three decades of authoritarian rule.

In 2012, pop singer Whitney Houston, 48, was found dead in a hotel room bathtub in Beverly Hills, California.

In 2013, with a few words in Latin, Pope Benedict XVI did what no pope had done in more than half a millennium: announced his resignation. The bombshell came during a routine morning meeting of Vatican cardinals. (The 85-year-old pontiff was succeeded by Pope Francis.)

In 2009, All-Star shortstop Miguel Tejada pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about steroids in baseball. (He was sentenced to a year's probation.) Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., who first went to Congress in 1955, became the longest-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Ten years ago: Former President Bill Clinton had two stents inserted in one of his heart arteries after being hospitalized in New York with chest pains. Iranian security forces unleashed a crushing sweep against opposition protesters as President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad used the 31st anniversary of the Islamic revolution to defy the West. British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, 40, was found dead in his London home.

Five years ago: Vowing that Islamic State forces were "going to lose," President Barack Obama urged Congress to authorize military action while ruling out large-scale U.S. ground combat operations reminiscent of Iraq and Afghanistan. Little League International stripped Jackie Robinson West of the national title after an investigation revealed it had falsified boundaries to field ineligible players; Mountain Ridge Little League was awarded the title. Longtime CBS News correspondent Bob Simon, 73, was killed in a car crash in New York. Hall of Fame basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian, 84, died in Las Vegas.

One year ago: Congressional negotiators reached agreement to prevent a government shutdown and finance construction of new barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. Freshman Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota apologized for tweets suggesting that members of Congress support Israel because they are being paid to do so; the tweets had brought bipartisan criticism. Robert Bowers, charged with gunning down 11 people at a Pittsburgh synagogue, pleaded not guilty to hate crimes and dozens of other counts. Denver schoolteachers went on strike for the first time in 25 years after failed negotiations with the school district over base pay; schools remained open with administrators and substitute teachers in classrooms. As baseball's Oakland Athletics began spring training workouts, first-round draft pick Kyler Murray announced that he would pursue a career in the NFL rather than in baseball; Murray had won college football's Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Conrad Janis is 92. Gospel singer Jimmy Carter is 88. Fashion designer Mary Quant is 86. Actress Tina Louise is 82. Bandleader Sergio Mendes is 79. Actor Philip Anglim is 68. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is 67. Actress Catherine Hickland is 64. Rock musician David Uosikkinen (The Hooters) is 64. Actress Carey Lowell is 59. Singer Sheryl Crow is 58. Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is 56. Actress Jennifer Aniston is 51. Actor Damian Lewis is 49. Actress Marisa Petroro is 48. Singer D'Angelo is 46. Actor Brice Beckham is 44. Rock M-C/vocalist Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park) is 43. Singer-actress Brandy is 41. Country musician Jon Jones (The Eli Young Band) is 40. Actor Matthew Lawrence is 40. Rhythm-and-blues singer Kelly Rowland is 39. Actress Natalie Dormer is 38. Singer Aubrey O'Day is 36. Actress Q'orianka&nbsp; Kilcher is 30. Actor Taylor Lautner is 28.

Thought for Today: "We had better live as we think, otherwise we shall end up by thinking as we have lived." — Paul Bourget, French author (1852-1935).

<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 Tuesday, Feb. 11, the 42nd day of 2020. There are 324 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 11, 1979, followers of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini seized power in Iran.On this date:In 1531, the Church of England grudgingly accepted King Henry VIII as its supreme head.In 1861, President-elect Abraham Lincoln bade farewell to his adopted hometown of Springfield, Ill., as he headed to Washington for his inauguration.In 1937, a six-week-old sit-down strike against General Motors ended, with the company agreeing to recognize the United Automobile Workers Union.In 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Soviet leader Josef Stalin signed the Yalta Agreement, in which Stalin agreed to declare war against Imperial Japan following Nazi Germany's capitulation.In 1968, New York City's fourth and current Madison Square Garden, located on Manhattan's West Side at the site of what used to be the Pennsylvania Station building, opened with a "Salute to the USO" hosted by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. (The same evening, the New York Rangers played their final game at the third Garden, tying the Detroit Red Wings 3-3.)In 1975, Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party.In 1990, South African black activist Nelson Mandela was freed after 27 years in captivity.In 2008, the Pentagon charged Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and five other detainees at Guantanamo Bay with murder and war crimes in connection with the Sept. 11 attacks.In 2011, Egypt exploded with joy after pro-democracy protesters brought down President Hosni Mubarak, whose resignation ended three decades of authoritarian rule.In 2012, pop singer Whitney Houston, 48, was found dead in a hotel room bathtub in Beverly Hills, California.In 2013, with a few words in Latin, Pope Benedict XVI did what no pope had done in more than half a millennium: announced his resignation. The bombshell came during a routine morning meeting of Vatican cardinals. (The 85-year-old pontiff was succeeded by Pope Francis.)In 2009, All-Star shortstop Miguel Tejada pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about steroids in baseball. (He was sentenced to a year's probation.) Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., who first went to Congress in 1955, became the longest-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives.Ten years ago: Former President Bill Clinton had two stents inserted in one of his heart arteries after being hospitalized in New York with chest pains. Iranian security forces unleashed a crushing sweep against opposition protesters as President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad used the 31st anniversary of the Islamic revolution to defy the West. British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, 40, was found dead in his London home.Five years ago: Vowing that Islamic State forces were "going to lose," President Barack Obama urged Congress to authorize military action while ruling out large-scale U.S. ground combat operations reminiscent of Iraq and Afghanistan. Little League International stripped Jackie Robinson West of the national title after an investigation revealed it had falsified boundaries to field ineligible players; Mountain Ridge Little League was awarded the title. Longtime CBS News correspondent Bob Simon, 73, was killed in a car crash in New York. Hall of Fame basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian, 84, died in Las Vegas.One year ago: Congressional negotiators reached agreement to prevent a government shutdown and finance construction of new barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. Freshman Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota apologized for tweets suggesting that members of Congress support Israel because they are being paid to do so; the tweets had brought bipartisan criticism. Robert Bowers, charged with gunning down 11 people at a Pittsburgh synagogue, pleaded not guilty to hate crimes and dozens of other counts. Denver schoolteachers went on strike for the first time in 25 years after failed negotiations with the school district over base pay; schools remained open with administrators and substitute teachers in classrooms. As baseball's Oakland Athletics began spring training workouts, first-round draft pick Kyler Murray announced that he would pursue a career in the NFL rather than in baseball; Murray had won college football's Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma.Today's Birthdays: Actor Conrad Janis is 92. Gospel singer Jimmy Carter is 88. Fashion designer Mary Quant is 86. Actress Tina Louise is 82. Bandleader Sergio Mendes is 79. Actor Philip Anglim is 68. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is 67. Actress Catherine Hickland is 64. Rock musician David Uosikkinen (The Hooters) is 64. Actress Carey Lowell is 59. Singer Sheryl Crow is 58. Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is 56. Actress Jennifer Aniston is 51. Actor Damian Lewis is 49. Actress Marisa Petroro is 48. Singer D'Angelo is 46. Actor Brice Beckham is 44. Rock M-C/vocalist Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park) is 43. Singer-actress Brandy is 41. Country musician Jon Jones (The Eli Young Band) is 40. Actor Matthew Lawrence is 40. Rhythm-and-blues singer Kelly Rowland is 39. Actress Natalie Dormer is 38. Singer Aubrey O'Day is 36. Actress Q'orianka&nbsp; Kilcher is 30. Actor Taylor Lautner is 28.Thought for Today: "We had better live as we think, otherwise we shall end up by thinking as we have lived." — Paul Bourget, French author (1852-1935).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Feb. 11

McPHERSON -- The McPherson Police Department investigated on Monday a threat to commit violence at the McPherson Middle School.

According to a news release from the department, on Monday afternoon, the McPherson Police Department received a report concerning a 13-year-old student possibly threatening to commit violence at the McPherson Middle School. The McPherson Police Department has investigated the incident and taken the student into custody for disorderly conduct, the news release noted.

The McPherson Police Department takes reports of incidents like these seriously, since “A Threat of Violence is An Act of Violence.” Anyone with information regarding this incident or any other criminal activity is asked the contact the McPherson Police Department at (620) 245-1266 or McPherson County Crime Stoppers at (620) 241-1122.

McPHERSON -- The McPherson Police Department investigated on Monday a threat to commit violence at the McPherson Middle School.According to a news release from the department, on Monday afternoon, the McPherson Police Department received a report concerning a 13-year-old student possibly threatening to commit violence at the McPherson Middle School. The McPherson Police Department has investigated the incident and taken the student into custody for disorderly conduct, the news release noted.The McPherson Police Department takes reports of incidents like these seriously, since “A Threat of Violence is An Act of Violence.” Anyone with information regarding this incident or any other criminal activity is asked the contact the McPherson Police Department at (620) 245-1266 or McPherson County Crime Stoppers at (620) 241-1122.

McPherson police arrest teen in alleged school threat case

Saline County Commissioners are scheduled to consider a variety of items during their two meetings Tuesday.

The regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. A time for public comment is scheduled near the beginning of the meeting.

Commissioners are scheduled to consider a request for them to proclaim February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Courtney Train, youth advocate mentor for DVACK, is scheduled to present the proclamation request.

Other items on the county agenda include the following.

Consider an Affordable Language Services Agreement --Jason Tiller, health department director

Consider a request for a tractor trailer haul truck -- Darren Fishel, road and bridge administrator

Hear a pre-trial stats update -- Andrew Pellant, pre-trial coordinator, community corrections

Consider a hazardous materials emergency preparedness grant -- Michelle Barkley, emergency management director

Hear County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes' update

At the conclusion of the meeting, the commissioners are scheduled to meet in a study session in room 107B of the City-County Building. The agenda for the study session is as follows.

Hazard Mitigation Plan -- Barkley (20 minutes)

Frisbie Way Area Benefit District (30 minutes)

Executive session: attorney-client privilege (30 minutes)

To see the full Saline County Commission meeting packet (a 50-page pdf, <a href="http://www.saline.org/Government/County/Commission-Documents">click here</a>.

Saline County Commissioners are scheduled to consider a variety of items during their two meetings Tuesday.The regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. A time for public comment is scheduled near the beginning of the meeting.Commissioners are scheduled to consider a request for them to proclaim February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Courtney Train, youth advocate mentor for DVACK, is scheduled to present the proclamation request.Other items on the county agenda include the following.Consider an Affordable Language Services Agreement --Jason Tiller, health department directorConsider a request for a tractor trailer haul truck -- Darren Fishel, road and bridge administratorHear a pre-trial stats update -- Andrew Pellant, pre-trial coordinator, community correctionsConsider a hazardous materials emergency preparedness grant -- Michelle Barkley, emergency management directorHear County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes' updateAt the conclusion of the meeting, the commissioners are scheduled to meet in a study session in room 107B of the City-County Building. The agenda for the study session is as follows.Hazard Mitigation Plan -- Barkley (20 minutes)Frisbie Way Area Benefit District (30 minutes)Executive session: attorney-client privilege (30 minutes)To see the full Saline County Commission meeting packet (a 50-page pdf, <a href="http://www.saline.org/Government/County/Commission-Documents">click here</a>.

Variety of items on county agenda for Tuesday

Numerous 4-H members will compete in music, drama, dance, project talks, demonstrations and illustrated talks during the annual Central Kansas Extension District 4-H Club Day Saturday.

4-H Club Day, the second-largest competition for 4-H members other than the Saline County Tri-Rivers Fair and Ottawa County Fair, is scheduled for 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Salina South Middle School, 2015 Simmons. Please enter at 2040 South Fourth Street (east side of building).

This one-day event is open to the public.

Numerous 4-H members will compete in music, drama, dance, project talks, demonstrations and illustrated talks during the annual Central Kansas Extension District 4-H Club Day Saturday.4-H Club Day, the second-largest competition for 4-H members other than the Saline County Tri-Rivers Fair and Ottawa County Fair, is scheduled for 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Salina South Middle School, 2015 Simmons. Please enter at 2040 South Fourth Street (east side of building).This one-day event is open to the public.

Central Kansas Extension District 4-H Club Day Saturday

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the Legislative Issues meetings dates for this year. 

Sponsored by AT&amp;T, the meetings will be held from 8:30-10 a.m. in the chamber’s Visit Salina Annex, 120 W. Ash Street. The meetings are open to the public at no charge.

The dates, all Saturdays, are as follows.

The format of the meetings will consist of brief opening remarks from the legislators, written questions from the audience, and brief closing remarks from the legislators. The meetings will be moderated by a chamber representative.

Senator Randall Hardy and representatives Steven Johnson, Diana Dierks, and J.R. Claeys have been invited to attend. 

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the Legislative Issues meetings dates for this year. Sponsored by AT&amp;T, the meetings will be held from 8:30-10 a.m. in the chamber’s Visit Salina Annex, 120 W. Ash Street. The meetings are open to the public at no charge.The dates, all Saturdays, are as follows.Feb. 22March 14April 25The format of the meetings will consist of brief opening remarks from the legislators, written questions from the audience, and brief closing remarks from the legislators. The meetings will be moderated by a chamber representative.Senator Randall Hardy and representatives Steven Johnson, Diana Dierks, and J.R. Claeys have been invited to attend.

Chamber announces dates for Legislative Issues meetings

CLAY CENTER -- Clay County Medical Center has restricted visitation. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/claycountymedicalcenter/">Clay County Medical Center</a> Facebook page:

CLAY CENTER -- Clay County Medical Center has restricted visitation. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/claycountymedicalcenter/">Clay County Medical Center</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fclaycountymedicalcenter%2Fposts%2F2802104049812688&width=500" width="500" height="542" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Clay County Medical Center restricts visitation

Beginning today, the City of Salina Public Works Department will be replacing sections of pavement on East Key Avenue between Belmont Boulevard and East Neal Avenue.

East Key Avenue will remain open to thru traffic; motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling in the active work area. Weather permitting, the repairs are expected to be completed within one to two weeks.

Beginning today, the City of Salina Public Works Department will be replacing sections of pavement on East Key Avenue between Belmont Boulevard and East Neal Avenue.East Key Avenue will remain open to thru traffic; motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling in the active work area. Weather permitting, the repairs are expected to be completed within one to two weeks.

City replacing pavement on East Key Avenue

An Oklahoma man was arrested after a Salina company's Freightliner went missing in Oklahoma.

Personnel at Bohm Farm and Ranch, 1050 East Pacific Avenue, told police on Saturday that a 2007 Freightliner pulling a 53-foot trailer was supposed to go to Oklahoma and then make a delivery in Wichita, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. 

Company personnel became concerned, however, when the delivery was not made in Wichita and the tractor-trailer rig's GPS showed it driving all over Oklahoma, Forrester said. The tractor-trailer rig was valued at $50,000, he said.

The driver, Brian Goldsberry, 42, of Oklahoma City, Okla., was finally stopped in Chandler, Okla., and arrested on suspicion of felony theft, Forrester said.

An Oklahoma man was arrested after a Salina company's Freightliner went missing in Oklahoma.Personnel at Bohm Farm and Ranch, 1050 East Pacific Avenue, told police on Saturday that a 2007 Freightliner pulling a 53-foot trailer was supposed to go to Oklahoma and then make a delivery in Wichita, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. Company personnel became concerned, however, when the delivery was not made in Wichita and the tractor-trailer rig's GPS showed it driving all over Oklahoma, Forrester said. The tractor-trailer rig was valued at $50,000, he said.The driver, Brian Goldsberry, 42, of Oklahoma City, Okla., was finally stopped in Chandler, Okla., and arrested on suspicion of felony theft, Forrester said.

Oklahoma man arrested after Salina tractor-trailer rig goes missing

A north Salina man is missing two televisions after someone broke into his residence over the weekend.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that sometime between 9:30 p.m. Friday and 10:30 p.m. Saturday, someone broke into a residence in the 600 block of North Seventh Street. A 26-year-old Salina man told police that when he returned home at approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, his door just came open, Forrester said.

The man reported to police that a 42-inch Vizio television with soundbar valued at $500 and a 65-inch TCL television valued at $700 were missing from his residence, Forrester said.

According to Forrester, there are no suspects, however, police are attempting to obtain surveillance video from the area.

A north Salina man is missing two televisions after someone broke into his residence over the weekend.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that sometime between 9:30 p.m. Friday and 10:30 p.m. Saturday, someone broke into a residence in the 600 block of North Seventh Street. A 26-year-old Salina man told police that when he returned home at approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, his door just came open, Forrester said.The man reported to police that a 42-inch Vizio television with soundbar valued at $500 and a 65-inch TCL television valued at $700 were missing from his residence, Forrester said.According to Forrester, there are no suspects, however, police are attempting to obtain surveillance video from the area.

Two TVs reported stolen from north Salina residence

Two Salina men were arrested on suspicion of multiple forgeries Friday morning after a chase through town and part of the county that reached speeds of up to 100 mph.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were called to First Bank Kansas, 235 South Santa Fe Avenue, shortly before 10 a.m. Friday for the report of Timothy J. Halpain, 29, of Salina, attempting to cash a forged check. When officers arrived, a gray 2006 Honda Civic driven by Michael D. Metzger, 32, of Salina, with Halpain in the passenger seat, pulled out of the First Bank Kansas parking lot onto South Santa Fe Avenue, Forrester said.

According to Forrester, Halpain and Metzger were known to be suspects in multiple forgeries in which forged checks were cashed at businesses throughout Salina from Jan. 2 to Friday. 

The officers attempted to make a traffic stop, but the car headed west on West Walnut Street at approximately 40 mph, he said. The chase continued through mutliple west-central Salina neighborhoods, sometimes reaching speeds as high as 50 mph, Forrester said.

The Civic eventually headed west on Crawford at approximately 50 mph, and ran a red light at the Broadway Boulevard intersection, he said. The car continued west out of Salina at speeds up to 100 mph, Forrester said. As the Salina Police Department ended its pursuit, the car was seen traveling south on South Burma Road, he said. 

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said deputies picked up the pursuit at that point. The car, which had a spare "donut" tire on the back, continued at 65-70 mph, he said. The vehicle turned west on West Water Well Road, south on South Powers Road, and west on West Farrelly Road until it attempted to turn north onto South Link Road by the Smoky Hill Weapons Range and turned in front of a Saline County Sheriff's Office SUV, causing a collision, and ending the chase, Soldan said.

Both suspects and the deputy driving the SUV complained of back pain and were transported to Salina Regional Health Center, where they were treated and released, Soldan said. Metzger and Halpain were arrested, he added.

Once the Salina Police Department's pursuit ended on West Crawford Street, officers went back to First Bank Kansas and learned that Halpain had been attempting to cash an $865 check on the account of Salina Investments, LLC, Motel 6, Forrester said. The bank had been alerted by Salina Investments after six other fraudulent checks totaling approximately $4,000, had been written and cashed on the company's account, he said.

Additionally, Metzger and Halpain are suspected in the following other forged check cases, Forrester said.

A check forged on Maggie Mae's Bar &amp; Grill account for $450

Two checks totaling $1,600 forged on the account of Southwest Deed and Title

Five checks totaling approximately $2,600 forged on the account of Team Employment

Forrester said Metzger was arrested on suspicion of the following.

Aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer

Seven requested counts of forgery, making or altering

Seven requested counts of forgery, distributing

Seven requested counts of making false information

Forrester said Halpain was arrested on suspicion of the following.

Eight requested counts of forgery, making or altering

Eight requested counts of forgery, distributing

Eight requested counts of making false information

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581174483687.jpeg" alt="Michael D. Metzger. All photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Michael D. Metzger. All photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581171457613.jpeg" alt="Timothy J. Halpain" />
 <figcaption>Timothy J. Halpain</figcaption>
 </figure>Two Salina men were arrested on suspicion of multiple forgeries Friday morning after a chase through town and part of the county that reached speeds of up to 100 mph.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were called to First Bank Kansas, 235 South Santa Fe Avenue, shortly before 10 a.m. Friday for the report of Timothy J. Halpain, 29, of Salina, attempting to cash a forged check. When officers arrived, a gray 2006 Honda Civic driven by Michael D. Metzger, 32, of Salina, with Halpain in the passenger seat, pulled out of the First Bank Kansas parking lot onto South Santa Fe Avenue, Forrester said.According to Forrester, Halpain and Metzger were known to be suspects in multiple forgeries in which forged checks were cashed at businesses throughout Salina from Jan. 2 to Friday. The officers attempted to make a traffic stop, but the car headed west on West Walnut Street at approximately 40 mph, he said. The chase continued through mutliple west-central Salina neighborhoods, sometimes reaching speeds as high as 50 mph, Forrester said.The Civic eventually headed west on Crawford at approximately 50 mph, and ran a red light at the Broadway Boulevard intersection, he said. The car continued west out of Salina at speeds up to 100 mph, Forrester said. As the Salina Police Department ended its pursuit, the car was seen traveling south on South Burma Road, he said. Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said deputies picked up the pursuit at that point. The car, which had a spare "donut" tire on the back, continued at 65-70 mph, he said. The vehicle turned west on West Water Well Road, south on South Powers Road, and west on West Farrelly Road until it attempted to turn north onto South Link Road by the Smoky Hill Weapons Range and turned in front of a Saline County Sheriff's Office SUV, causing a collision, and ending the chase, Soldan said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581357186770.jpeg" alt="The chase ended near the intersection of West Farrelly Road and South Link Road." />
 <figcaption>The chase ended near the intersection of West Farrelly Road and South Link Road.</figcaption>
 </figure>Both suspects and the deputy driving the SUV complained of back pain and were transported to Salina Regional Health Center, where they were treated and released, Soldan said. Metzger and Halpain were arrested, he added.Once the Salina Police Department's pursuit ended on West Crawford Street, officers went back to First Bank Kansas and learned that Halpain had been attempting to cash an $865 check on the account of Salina Investments, LLC, Motel 6, Forrester said. The bank had been alerted by Salina Investments after six other fraudulent checks totaling approximately $4,000, had been written and cashed on the company's account, he said.Additionally, Metzger and Halpain are suspected in the following other forged check cases, Forrester said.A check forged on Maggie Mae's Bar &amp; Grill account for $450Two checks totaling $1,600 forged on the account of Southwest Deed and TitleFive checks totaling approximately $2,600 forged on the account of Team EmploymentForrester said Metzger was arrested on suspicion of the following.Felony flee and eludeDriving while suspendedNumerous traffic violationsAggravated battery of a law enforcement officerSeven requested counts of forgery, making or alteringSeven requested counts of forgery, distributingSeven requested counts of making false informationTheft by deceptionForrester said Halpain was arrested on suspicion of the following.Eight requested counts of forgery, making or alteringEight requested counts of forgery, distributingEight requested counts of making false informationTheft by deception

Two Salina men arrested in connection to multiple forgeries after high-speed chase

KIPP -- A 42-year-old Kipp man was arrested late Sunday on suspicion of indecent liberties with a child and sexual exploitation of a child.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies were sent to the 100 block of East Main Street in Kipp Sunday night after a family member of one of two girls allegedly involved in the case notified authorities. The two girls, who are acquainted, are ages 17 and 15, he said.

The girls reported that Chad M. Cutbirth, 42, of Kipp, fondled one of the girls and sent to both them via social media obscene photos, Soldan said. Both girls are acquainted with Cutbirth, Soldan said.

Cutbirth was arrested on suspicion of the following, Soldan said.

Indecent liberties with a child, 14 to 16 years of age; lewd fondling

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581345353997.jpeg" alt="Chad M. Cutbirth. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Chad M. Cutbirth. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>KIPP -- A 42-year-old Kipp man was arrested late Sunday on suspicion of indecent liberties with a child and sexual exploitation of a child.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies were sent to the 100 block of East Main Street in Kipp Sunday night after a family member of one of two girls allegedly involved in the case notified authorities. The two girls, who are acquainted, are ages 17 and 15, he said.The girls reported that Chad M. Cutbirth, 42, of Kipp, fondled one of the girls and sent to both them via social media obscene photos, Soldan said. Both girls are acquainted with Cutbirth, Soldan said.Cutbirth was arrested on suspicion of the following, Soldan said.Indecent liberties with a child, 14 to 16 years of age; lewd fondlingSexual exploitation of a childPromoting obscenity to minors

Kipp man arrested on suspicion of indecent liberties with a child, exploitation

WICHITA -- Wichita State University has announced the names of more than 3,300 students who were on the WSU dean's honor roll for fall 2019.

To be included on the dean's honor roll, a student must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours) and earn at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

WICHITA -- Wichita State University has announced the names of more than 3,300 students who were on the WSU dean's honor roll for fall 2019.To be included on the dean's honor roll, a student must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours) and earn at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

Abilene&nbsp;Cassidy L. MeinsBennington&nbsp;Kaysia L. Lopez&nbsp;Kyler V. Mick&nbsp;Luke A. Snyder&nbsp;Jordan B. VigneryBrookville&nbsp;Callie M. Cameron&nbsp;Milah K. Linenberger&nbsp;Katelynn M. WinterCanton&nbsp;Jillian M. Ross-MasonChapman&nbsp;Nathan R. Nelson&nbsp;Abby N. SweetEllsworth&nbsp;Whitney A. Bahr&nbsp;Taylor M. Bunch&nbsp;Nicholas J. Flynn&nbsp;Logan S. Gose&nbsp;Alexis A. Stefek&nbsp;Laurel O. WackerGoessel&nbsp;Lauren E. RymillGypsum&nbsp;Faith R. Pruett&nbsp;Madison E. Roths&nbsp;Rondalee S. WinshipHerington&nbsp;Benjamin K. Castleberry&nbsp;Shae E. Granzow&nbsp;Theron C. Miller&nbsp;Christopher R. ThielHillsboro&nbsp;Jonathan R. RaglandInman&nbsp;Koy D. Light&nbsp;Micah D. Mikulecky&nbsp;John Ramey&nbsp;Jacob L. Renner&nbsp;Elizabeth A. Wood&nbsp;Krystal L. ZotovaLincoln&nbsp;Eilleen H. Beckmeyer&nbsp;Mary F. Beckmeyer&nbsp;Heidi J. DonleyLindsborg&nbsp;Margaret J. Anderson&nbsp;Alyssa B. Carlson&nbsp;Austin R. Crawford&nbsp;Lindsey R. Gerlach&nbsp;Perla S. VivancoLost Springs&nbsp;Cassandra A. ThompsonMarion&nbsp;Tyler J. Arocha&nbsp;Corrina M. Crabb&nbsp;Bailey K. RobsonMcPherson&nbsp;Miranda S. Axelson&nbsp;Nathan W. Ayers&nbsp;Kali B. Casebeer&nbsp;Kayley M. Cox&nbsp;Cody A. Cruise&nbsp;Myles T. Davis&nbsp;Makenzie G. Goering&nbsp;Megan E. Pedersen&nbsp;Allison N. Unruh&nbsp;Michael A. Webster&nbsp;Abbey M. Yianakopulos&nbsp;Alexis S. YoungMinneapolis&nbsp;Moriah J. AushermanMoundridge&nbsp;Remington B. CreedSalina&nbsp;Kyra N. Bieker&nbsp;Alina H. Bohanan&nbsp;Analisa M. Bridge&nbsp;Jade R. Burroughs&nbsp;Ismael D. Garcia&nbsp;Zephyr C. Gill&nbsp;Estefania Granado&nbsp;Rebecca H. Karber&nbsp;Bryana K. Loisranoi&nbsp;Courtney L. Meyer&nbsp;Alora H. Nesting&nbsp;Lynn D. Nguyen&nbsp;Aracely Nieto&nbsp;Brayden A. Pavey&nbsp;Kylie A. Roberts&nbsp;Elaine G. Stineman&nbsp;Jasmine Tabares&nbsp;Tonya Y. Vidales&nbsp;Caitlynn I. Waller&nbsp;Cole J. Wassenberg&nbsp;Shelby N. Wood&nbsp;Shadden E. ZapataSolomon&nbsp;Alec M. Azim&nbsp;Andrew T. Capsey&nbsp;Cameron S. Noggle&nbsp;Jessica N. Paluri&nbsp;Katelyn A. StaleySylvan Grove&nbsp;Mia P. MaupinWilson&nbsp;Kendyl E. Zorn