An upcoming Black History Month presentation will look at the history and impact of housing segregation in the United States. 

The presentation is scheduled to include a Land of Opportunity viewing, a story of integration and the fight for housing rights across the United States following the Great Depression. The documentary was created by Nico Wiggins, who also narrates the video. A discussion will follow. Food is to be provided. 

The event will take place on Feb. 27 from 6-8 p.m. at the Salina Art Center, 242 South Santa Fe Avenue.

RSVPs are encouraged, but not required. Individuals who would like to RSVP should contact Evelyn Nelson, community relations division supervisor, by phone at (785) 309-5745, or by email at <a href="mailto:evelyn.nelson@salina.org">evelyn.nelson@salina.org</a>.

For needed accommodations, contact the Community Relations Division at 785-309-5745 (TDD 785-309-5747) from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Every effort will be made to accommodate known disabilities. For material or speech access, please call at least five working days prior to the event.

An upcoming Black History Month presentation will look at the history and impact of housing segregation in the United States. The presentation is scheduled to include a Land of Opportunity viewing, a story of integration and the fight for housing rights across the United States following the Great Depression. The documentary was created by Nico Wiggins, who also narrates the video. A discussion will follow. Food is to be provided. The event will take place on Feb. 27 from 6-8 p.m. at the Salina Art Center, 242 South Santa Fe Avenue.RSVPs are encouraged, but not required. Individuals who would like to RSVP should contact Evelyn Nelson, community relations division supervisor, by phone at (785) 309-5745, or by email at <a href="mailto:evelyn.nelson@salina.org">evelyn.nelson@salina.org</a>.For needed accommodations, contact the Community Relations Division at 785-309-5745 (TDD 785-309-5747) from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Every effort will be made to accommodate known disabilities. For material or speech access, please call at least five working days prior to the event.

Program to look at history, impact of USA housing segregation

Today is Monday, Feb. 10, the 41st day of 2020. There are 325 days left in the year.

On Feb. 10, 1967, the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, dealing with presidential disability and succession, was ratified as Minnesota and Nevada adopted it.

In 1840, Britain's Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

In 1936, Nazi Germany's Reichstag passed a law investing the Gestapo secret police with absolute authority, exempt from any legal review.

In 1949, Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman" opened at Broadway's Morosco Theater with Lee J. Cobb as Willy Loman.

In 1959, a major tornado tore through the St. Louis area, killing 21 people and causing heavy damage.

In 1962, the Soviet Union exchanged captured American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for Rudolf Abel, a Soviet spy held by the United States.

In 1968, U.S. figure skater Peggy Fleming, 19, won America's only gold medal of the Winter Olympic Games in Grenoble, France, in the ladies' singles event. (Gabriele Seyfert of East Germany earned the silver medal, Hana Maskova of Czechoslovakia, the bronze.)

In 1992, boxer Mike Tyson was convicted in Indianapolis of raping Desiree Washington, a Miss Black America contestant. (Tyson served three years in prison.) "Roots" author Alex Haley died in Seattle at age 70.

In 1997, a civil jury heaped $25 million in punitive damages on O.J. Simpson for the slayings of his ex-wife and her friend, on top of $8.5 million in compensatory damages awarded earlier.

In 2001, the space shuttle Atlantis' astronauts installed the $1.4 billion Destiny laboratory on the international space station. Former New York City Mayor Abraham D. Beame died at age 94.

In 2004, the White House, trying to end doubts about President George W. Bush's Vietnam-era military service, released documents it said proved he had met his requirements in the Texas Air National Guard. Democrat John Kerry won the Virginia and Tennessee primaries.

In 2005, Britain's Prince Charles announced he would marry his divorced lover, Camilla Parker Bowles, in April. North Korea boasted publicly for the first time that it possessed nuclear weapons.

In 2006, Dr. Norman Shumway, who performed the first successful U.S. heart transplant, died in Palo Alto, California, at age 83.

Ten years ago: Shuttle Endeavour arrived to a warm welcome at the International Space Station, delivering a new room and observation deck. Former Congressman Charlie Wilson, a Texas Democrat whose funding of Afghanistan's resistance to the Soviet Union was chronicled in the movie and book "Charlie Wilson's War," died in Dallas at age 76.

Five years ago: The parents of Kayla Jean Mueller and U.S. officials confirmed the death of the 26-year-old aid worker who had been held captive by the Islamic State group (IS said Mueller had been killed in a Jordanian airstrike). NBC announced it was suspending Brian Williams as "Nightly News" anchor and managing editor for six months without pay for misleading the public about his experiences covering the Iraq War. Jon Stewart announced he would step down as host of "The Daily Show" on Comedy Central later in the year.

One year ago: Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar joined the growing group of Democrats jostling for the party's presidential nomination. Female acts took home some of the top prizes including album of the year and best new artist at the Grammys, with Kacey Musgraves' country-pop release "Golden Hour" capturing the top album prize; Childish Gambino made history when "This Is America" became the first rap-based track to win record and song of the year.

Today's Birthdays: Opera singer Leontyne Price is 93. Actor Robert Wagner is 90. Rock musician Don Wilson (The Ventures) is 87. Singer Roberta Flack is 83. Singer Jimmy Merchant (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is 80. Movie director Michael Apted is 79. Rock musician Bob Spalding (The Ventures) is 73. Olympic gold-medal swimmer Mark Spitz is 70. Walt Disney Co. chairman and chief executive Robert Iger is 69. Rock musician and composer Cory Lerios (Pablo Cruise) is 69. World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is 65. Actress Kathleen Beller is 64. Country singer Lionel Cartwright is 60. Movie director Alexander Payne is 59. ABC News correspondent George Stephanopoulos is 59. Retired MLB All-Star Lenny Dykstra is 57. Political commentator Glenn Beck is 56. Actress Laura Dern is 53. Writer-producer-director Vince Gilligan (TV: "Breaking Bad") is 53. Country singer Dude Mowrey is 48. Actor Jason Olive is 48. Actress Elizabeth Banks is 46. Pop singer Rosanna Taverez (Eden's Crush) is 43. Actress Julia Pace Mitchell is 42. Reggaeton singer Don Omar is 42. Country musician Jeremy Baxter (Carolina Rain) is 40. Actress Uzo Aduba is 39. Actress Stephanie Beatriz is 39. Actor Max Brown is 39. Actor Barry Sloane is 39. Rock singer Eric Dill is 38. Rock musician Ben Romans (The Click Five) is 38. Actor Trevante Rhodes is 30. Actress Emma Roberts is 29. Actress Makenzie Vega is 26. Actress Chloe Grace Moretz is 23. Actress Yara Shahidi is 20.

Thought for Today: "Morality is moral only when it is voluntary." — Lincoln Steffens, American journalist (1866-1936).

<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 Monday, Feb. 10, the 41st day of 2020. There are 325 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 10, 1967, the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, dealing with presidential disability and succession, was ratified as Minnesota and Nevada adopted it.On this date:In 1840, Britain's Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.In 1936, Nazi Germany's Reichstag passed a law investing the Gestapo secret police with absolute authority, exempt from any legal review.In 1949, Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman" opened at Broadway's Morosco Theater with Lee J. Cobb as Willy Loman.In 1959, a major tornado tore through the St. Louis area, killing 21 people and causing heavy damage.In 1962, the Soviet Union exchanged captured American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for Rudolf Abel, a Soviet spy held by the United States.In 1968, U.S. figure skater Peggy Fleming, 19, won America's only gold medal of the Winter Olympic Games in Grenoble, France, in the ladies' singles event. (Gabriele Seyfert of East Germany earned the silver medal, Hana Maskova of Czechoslovakia, the bronze.)In 1992, boxer Mike Tyson was convicted in Indianapolis of raping Desiree Washington, a Miss Black America contestant. (Tyson served three years in prison.) "Roots" author Alex Haley died in Seattle at age 70.In 1997, a civil jury heaped $25 million in punitive damages on O.J. Simpson for the slayings of his ex-wife and her friend, on top of $8.5 million in compensatory damages awarded earlier.In 2001, the space shuttle Atlantis' astronauts installed the $1.4 billion Destiny laboratory on the international space station. Former New York City Mayor Abraham D. Beame died at age 94.In 2004, the White House, trying to end doubts about President George W. Bush's Vietnam-era military service, released documents it said proved he had met his requirements in the Texas Air National Guard. Democrat John Kerry won the Virginia and Tennessee primaries.In 2005, Britain's Prince Charles announced he would marry his divorced lover, Camilla Parker Bowles, in April. North Korea boasted publicly for the first time that it possessed nuclear weapons.In 2006, Dr. Norman Shumway, who performed the first successful U.S. heart transplant, died in Palo Alto, California, at age 83.Ten years ago: Shuttle Endeavour arrived to a warm welcome at the International Space Station, delivering a new room and observation deck. Former Congressman Charlie Wilson, a Texas Democrat whose funding of Afghanistan's resistance to the Soviet Union was chronicled in the movie and book "Charlie Wilson's War," died in Dallas at age 76.Five years ago: The parents of Kayla Jean Mueller and U.S. officials confirmed the death of the 26-year-old aid worker who had been held captive by the Islamic State group (IS said Mueller had been killed in a Jordanian airstrike). NBC announced it was suspending Brian Williams as "Nightly News" anchor and managing editor for six months without pay for misleading the public about his experiences covering the Iraq War. Jon Stewart announced he would step down as host of "The Daily Show" on Comedy Central later in the year.One year ago: Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar joined the growing group of Democrats jostling for the party's presidential nomination. Female acts took home some of the top prizes including album of the year and best new artist at the Grammys, with Kacey Musgraves' country-pop release "Golden Hour" capturing the top album prize; Childish Gambino made history when "This Is America" became the first rap-based track to win record and song of the year.Today's Birthdays: Opera singer Leontyne Price is 93. Actor Robert Wagner is 90. Rock musician Don Wilson (The Ventures) is 87. Singer Roberta Flack is 83. Singer Jimmy Merchant (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is 80. Movie director Michael Apted is 79. Rock musician Bob Spalding (The Ventures) is 73. Olympic gold-medal swimmer Mark Spitz is 70. Walt Disney Co. chairman and chief executive Robert Iger is 69. Rock musician and composer Cory Lerios (Pablo Cruise) is 69. World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is 65. Actress Kathleen Beller is 64. Country singer Lionel Cartwright is 60. Movie director Alexander Payne is 59. ABC News correspondent George Stephanopoulos is 59. Retired MLB All-Star Lenny Dykstra is 57. Political commentator Glenn Beck is 56. Actress Laura Dern is 53. Writer-producer-director Vince Gilligan (TV: "Breaking Bad") is 53. Country singer Dude Mowrey is 48. Actor Jason Olive is 48. Actress Elizabeth Banks is 46. Pop singer Rosanna Taverez (Eden's Crush) is 43. Actress Julia Pace Mitchell is 42. Reggaeton singer Don Omar is 42. Country musician Jeremy Baxter (Carolina Rain) is 40. Actress Uzo Aduba is 39. Actress Stephanie Beatriz is 39. Actor Max Brown is 39. Actor Barry Sloane is 39. Rock singer Eric Dill is 38. Rock musician Ben Romans (The Click Five) is 38. Actor Trevante Rhodes is 30. Actress Emma Roberts is 29. Actress Makenzie Vega is 26. Actress Chloe Grace Moretz is 23. Actress Yara Shahidi is 20.Thought for Today: "Morality is moral only when it is voluntary." — Lincoln Steffens, American journalist (1866-1936).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Feb. 10

Proclamations, contracts, and an executive session are among the items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.

Commissioners are scheduled to begin with a study session at 2:30 p.m. Monday in room 107B of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. The topic of the study session is a sanitayion services update. A time for public comment during the study session is scheduled for 3:45 p.m.

The regular commission meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building. A time for public comment is scheduled near the beginning of the meeting.

Commissioners are being asked to consider the following two proclamations.

Proclaim the day of Feb. 14, 2020, as League of Women Voters Voting Rights Day in the City of Salina and recognize the 100th anniversary of the League of Women Voters. Lori Trow, president of the Salina League of Women Voters, is scheduled to read the proclamation.

Proclaim the month of February 2020 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in the City of Salina. Andrew Lagerman, DVACK victim advocate, is scheduled to read the proclamation. 

Other items on the city agenda for Monday include the following.

Consider awarding a construction contract for the Mulberry Storm Sewer, Project No. 20009. 

Consider a contract for the 2020 pavement sealing, project No. 20003.

Consider Resolution  No.  20-7799  authorizing  the  mayor  to  execute  a  license  agreement  with  Jiarong,  LLC,  allowing  the  installation  of  private  sanitary  sewer  lines  and  grease  interceptor in Strand Plaza abutting the Barolo Grille restaurant at 112 South Santa Fe Avenue.

Additionally, commissioners are scheduled to meet in an executive session to discuss the subject of negotiations with Saline County relating to the expo center lease agreement with legal counsel.

To see the entire Salina City Commission meeting packet for Monday (71 pages, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?startid=177362&amp;&amp;dbid=0&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

Proclamations, contracts, and an executive session are among the items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.Commissioners are scheduled to begin with a study session at 2:30 p.m. Monday in room 107B of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. The topic of the study session is a sanitayion services update. A time for public comment during the study session is scheduled for 3:45 p.m.The regular commission meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building. A time for public comment is scheduled near the beginning of the meeting.Commissioners are being asked to consider the following two proclamations.Proclaim the day of Feb. 14, 2020, as League of Women Voters Voting Rights Day in the City of Salina and recognize the 100th anniversary of the League of Women Voters. Lori Trow, president of the Salina League of Women Voters, is scheduled to read the proclamation.Proclaim the month of February 2020 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in the City of Salina. Andrew Lagerman, DVACK victim advocate, is scheduled to read the proclamation. Other items on the city agenda for Monday include the following.Consider awarding a construction contract for the Mulberry Storm Sewer, Project No. 20009. Consider a contract for the 2020 pavement sealing, project No. 20003.Consider Resolution No. 20-7799 authorizing the mayor to execute a license agreement with Jiarong, LLC, allowing the installation of private sanitary sewer lines and grease interceptor in Strand Plaza abutting the Barolo Grille restaurant at 112 South Santa Fe Avenue.Additionally, commissioners are scheduled to meet in an executive session to discuss the subject of negotiations with Saline County relating to the expo center lease agreement with legal counsel.To see the entire Salina City Commission meeting packet for Monday (71 pages, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?startid=177362&amp;&amp;dbid=0&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

Proclamations, contracts, executive session on city agenda

SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an injury accident that occurred just before 4p.m. Sunday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported an unknown vehicle was southbound on Niles Road and struck a 2007 Ford Edge driven by Tina Marie Karber, 20,&nbsp; Gypsum, who was eastbound on Farrelly Road.&nbsp; &nbsp;The unknown vehicle then left the scene, according to the KHP.

EMS transported&nbsp; Karber and a passenger&nbsp;  Shelbie Arlene Thummel, 28, Salina, to the hospital in Salina.

The occupants of the Ford were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an injury accident that occurred just before 4p.m. Sunday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported an unknown vehicle was southbound on Niles Road and struck a 2007 Ford Edge driven by Tina Marie Karber, 20,&nbsp; Gypsum, who was eastbound on Farrelly Road.&nbsp; &nbsp;The unknown vehicle then left the scene, according to the KHP.EMS transported&nbsp; Karber and a passenger&nbsp; Shelbie Arlene Thummel, 28, Salina, to the hospital in Salina.The occupants of the Ford were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

KHP: 2 from Saline Co. hospitalized; one car fled crash scene

WICHITA -- More than 1,000 students completed degrees at Wichita State University in fall 2019.

Undergraduate students who have attained a grade point average of 3.9 out of a possible 4.0 received the summa cum laude award; those with an average of 3.55 received the magna cum laude award; and those with an average of 3.25 received the cum laude.

Local and area students who completed degrees at Wichita State include the following.

Jordan B. Vignery, Bachelor of Arts in Education, ECU/Elementary Educ Apprentice, Magna Cum Laude

Nicholas J. Flynn, B.A. in Sport Management, , Magna Cum Laude

Rachelle A. Sims, Doctor of Nursing Practice,

Gentry C. Thiesen, Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology, Magna Cum Laude

Micayla E. Stika, BS in Nursing,&nbsp; Magna Cum Laude

Christopher R. Thiel, B.S. in Health Science,&nbsp; Magna Cum Laude

John M. Bartel, B.S. in Computer Engineering

Austin R. Crawford, Bachelor of Arts in Education, Elementary Education, Cum Laude

Edward J. Obermeyer, Bachelor of Arts, Intl Studies - BA Admin, Cum Laude

Ryan B. Eilts, B.A. in Exercise Science, , Magna Cum Laude

Dennis L. Hilzer, Bachelor of Science, Computer Science BS

Paige E. Schmidt, Bachelor of Business Admin., Human Resource Management, Cum Laude

Darsha H. Whorton, Graduate Certificate, School Counselor to CMHC

Darsha H. Whorton, Master of Education, Counseling

Jessica L. Cairo, Doctor of Nursing Practice,

Kelsey N. Hart, Bachelor of Business Admin., Human Resource Management

Alicia E. Resa, Master of Education, Counseling

WSU enrolls about 16,000 students, and offers more than 50 undergraduate degree programs in more than 150 areas of study in six undergraduate colleges.

The Graduate School offers an extensive program including more than 40 master's degrees that offer study in more than 100 areas; a specialist in education degree; and doctoral degrees in applied mathematics; audiology; chemistry; communication sciences and disorders; human factors and community/clinical psychology; educational leadership; nursing practice; physical therapy; and aerospace, electrical, industrial and mechanical engineering.

--<a href="http://wichita.edu">WSU</a>--

WICHITA -- More than 1,000 students completed degrees at Wichita State University in fall 2019.Undergraduate students who have attained a grade point average of 3.9 out of a possible 4.0 received the summa cum laude award; those with an average of 3.55 received the magna cum laude award; and those with an average of 3.25 received the cum laude.Local and area students who completed degrees at Wichita State include the following.

BenningtonJordan B. Vignery, Bachelor of Arts in Education, ECU/Elementary Educ Apprentice, Magna Cum LaudeEllsworthNicholas J. Flynn, B.A. in Sport Management, , Magna Cum LaudeEnterpriseRachelle A. Sims, Doctor of Nursing Practice,GoesselGentry C. Thiesen, Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology, Magna Cum LaudeHeringtonMicayla E. Stika, BS in Nursing,&nbsp; Magna Cum LaudeChristopher R. Thiel, B.S. in Health Science,&nbsp; Magna Cum LaudeHillsboroJohn M. Bartel, B.S. in Computer EngineeringLindsborgAustin R. Crawford, Bachelor of Arts in Education, Elementary Education, Cum LaudeMarionEdward J. Obermeyer, Bachelor of Arts, Intl Studies - BA Admin, Cum LaudeMcPhersonRyan B. Eilts, B.A. in Exercise Science, , Magna Cum LaudeDennis L. Hilzer, Bachelor of Science, Computer Science BSPaige E. Schmidt, Bachelor of Business Admin., Human Resource Management, Cum LaudeDarsha H. Whorton, Graduate Certificate, School Counselor to CMHCDarsha H. Whorton, Master of Education, CounselingSalinaJessica L. Cairo, Doctor of Nursing Practice,Kelsey N. Hart, Bachelor of Business Admin., Human Resource ManagementAlicia E. Resa, Master of Education, CounselingWSU enrolls about 16,000 students, and offers more than 50 undergraduate degree programs in more than 150 areas of study in six undergraduate colleges.The Graduate School offers an extensive program including more than 40 master's degrees that offer study in more than 100 areas; a specialist in education degree; and doctoral degrees in applied mathematics; audiology; chemistry; communication sciences and disorders; human factors and community/clinical psychology; educational leadership; nursing practice; physical therapy; and aerospace, electrical, industrial and mechanical engineering.--<a href="http://wichita.edu">WSU</a>--

Local students complete degrees at Wichita State University

KANOPOLIS STATE PARK -- Another volunteer work day has been scheduled. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark/">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism</a> Facebook page:

KANOPOLIS STATE PARK -- Another volunteer work day has been scheduled. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark/">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKanopolisStatePark%2Fposts%2F2548114675456102&width=500" width="500" height="605" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Another work day set for Kanopolis State Park

MANHATTAN -- What was going on in Kansas in 1970? A new program called Kansas PRIDE was created to increase community vitality across the state. 

The program provides recognition, funding and leadership development for Kansas community volunteer improvement groups to celebrate their successes and address challenges unique to their community. 

As the Kansas PRIDE Program enters its 50th&nbsp;year, it is still going strong with partners in the Kansas Department of Commerce, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Masons.

The program has done much over the years to help Kansas communities grow and complete&nbsp;&nbsp;projects to enhance the local quality of living. Volunteers assess community needs, then set forth to bring positive changes. The program assists their volunteers with grants from Kansas PRIDE Inc. and the Kansas Masons, along with providing workshops, guidance, resources, and a reporting database as a way for communities to communicate and share ideas. Kansas PRIDE has helped communities foster hometown pride and a renewed spirit for making their community great.

Some local PRIDE groups have helped bring entertainment to their communities, while others facilitate cleanup and community spirit. The projects may make a community cleaner, safer, and create events that draw residents and tourists, and may bring new businesses to town.

One town, for instance, has a thrift store operated by PRIDE members, with the proceeds going back into the community. Other communities have used PRIDE grants to open grocery stores or farmers markets, to renovate buildings that will house a new business, or to purchase new park playground equipment for children to enjoy.

“The Kansas PRIDE Program has made a huge impact on our town,” said&nbsp;Laura Musil, of Blue Rapids. “It has empowered citizens to work on numerous projects to make our community more attractive and viable. It is a vehicle to work with our city government, to come alongside them and work for the betterment of our town.”

“Before we were part of PRIDE, I think many thought it would be getting in the business of our hardworking&nbsp;city council and stepping on toes,” Musil said. “They have, instead, welcomed our volunteer efforts.&nbsp;The more people involved, the better!&nbsp;It provided a way for volunteers – and there have been many – to contribute, because we all want to improve our town.&nbsp;It is the PRIDE program that has given us a way to do so, and given us incentive to move forward on making Blue Rapids shine. I can’t give enough thanks to the PRIDE Program and its directors for their helpfulness and support.”

There have been PRIDE communities in all sections of Kansas throughout the years, said Jaime Menon, co-coordinator of Kansas PRIDE: “As you drive across the state you can see the impact PRIDE has had on communities. There has been a PRIDE community in all 105 counties in Kansas, with over 400 communities being enrolled in PRIDE at one point or another in our 50-year history.”

Thirty-four communities have been with PRIDE for more than half of those 50 years, Menon said. The volunteers and the people who work for Kansas PRIDE care about the communities around the state. They all want to create a higher quality of living across Kansas.&nbsp;

To find out about upcoming 50th anniversary events and how your community can benefit from the program, follow Kansas PRIDE on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasPRIDE/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or by subscribing to its newsletter via its&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprideprogram.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">website</a>.&nbsp;More information is also available by calling 785-532-5840 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:PRIDE@ksu.edu" target="_blank">PRIDE@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581218969441.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN -- What was going on in Kansas in 1970? A new program called Kansas PRIDE was created to increase community vitality across the state. The program provides recognition, funding and leadership development for Kansas community volunteer improvement groups to celebrate their successes and address challenges unique to their community. As the Kansas PRIDE Program enters its 50th&nbsp;year, it is still going strong with partners in the Kansas Department of Commerce, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Masons.The program has done much over the years to help Kansas communities grow and complete&nbsp;&nbsp;projects to enhance the local quality of living. Volunteers assess community needs, then set forth to bring positive changes. The program assists their volunteers with grants from Kansas PRIDE Inc. and the Kansas Masons, along with providing workshops, guidance, resources, and a reporting database as a way for communities to communicate and share ideas. Kansas PRIDE has helped communities foster hometown pride and a renewed spirit for making their community great.Some local PRIDE groups have helped bring entertainment to their communities, while others facilitate cleanup and community spirit. The projects may make a community cleaner, safer, and create events that draw residents and tourists, and may bring new businesses to town.One town, for instance, has a thrift store operated by PRIDE members, with the proceeds going back into the community. Other communities have used PRIDE grants to open grocery stores or farmers markets, to renovate buildings that will house a new business, or to purchase new park playground equipment for children to enjoy.“The Kansas PRIDE Program has made a huge impact on our town,” said&nbsp;Laura Musil, of Blue Rapids. “It has empowered citizens to work on numerous projects to make our community more attractive and viable. It is a vehicle to work with our city government, to come alongside them and work for the betterment of our town.”“Before we were part of PRIDE, I think many thought it would be getting in the business of our hardworking&nbsp;city council and stepping on toes,” Musil said. “They have, instead, welcomed our volunteer efforts.&nbsp;The more people involved, the better!&nbsp;It provided a way for volunteers – and there have been many – to contribute, because we all want to improve our town.&nbsp;It is the PRIDE program that has given us a way to do so, and given us incentive to move forward on making Blue Rapids shine. I can’t give enough thanks to the PRIDE Program and its directors for their helpfulness and support.”There have been PRIDE communities in all sections of Kansas throughout the years, said Jaime Menon, co-coordinator of Kansas PRIDE: “As you drive across the state you can see the impact PRIDE has had on communities. There has been a PRIDE community in all 105 counties in Kansas, with over 400 communities being enrolled in PRIDE at one point or another in our 50-year history.”Thirty-four communities have been with PRIDE for more than half of those 50 years, Menon said. The volunteers and the people who work for Kansas PRIDE care about the communities around the state. They all want to create a higher quality of living across Kansas.&nbsp;To find out about upcoming 50th anniversary events and how your community can benefit from the program, follow Kansas PRIDE on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasPRIDE/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or by subscribing to its newsletter via its&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprideprogram.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">website</a>.&nbsp;More information is also available by calling 785-532-5840 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:PRIDE@ksu.edu" target="_blank">PRIDE@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Kansas PRIDE: Celebrating 50 years of helping improve state

LAWRENCE — "As You Like It" by William Shakespeare kicks off the University Theatre’s spring season. This pastoral comedy, rendered in new light, plays weekends Feb. 21 through March 1 in the Crafton-Preyer Theatre at Murphy Hall.

Director Mechele Leon’s adaptation brings the play into the world of 1930s Europe. The production highlights finding individual freedom in a world of political tyranny. As with many of Shakespeare’s works, this play includes humor, bawdiness, gender-bending disguises, love-struck characters overcoming odds, songs, dancing and a good dose of rustic revelry.

Leon, a longtime faculty member of the Department of Theatre &amp; Dance, most recently directed "Spring Awakening" for University Theatre. She is working closely with Santiago Sosa, visiting assistant professor, who is serving as a text/vocal coach.

“If you love a classic, this production shows how relevant Shakespeare is for our time,” Leon said. “The Crafton-Preyer Theatre will be transformed into both the all-too-real world of fascism and the fantasy of the Forest of Arden. Audiences will follow Rosalind through the forest as she carries on a hilarious charade and ultimately finds love. Student cast members are diligently working side by side with faculty actors in key roles. Moreover, faculty choreographers are bringing their talents to the production, adding delightful dances that will show off the fruits of the newly merged Department of Theatre &amp; Dance.”

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21, 22, 28 and 29 and 2:30 p.m. Feb. 23 and March 1. Tickets to "As You Like It" are on sale now at the KU University Theatre box office in Murphy Hall and online at&nbsp;kutheatre.com. Tickets are also available by calling University Theatre at 785-864-3982. Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/KU faculty and staff, and $10 for children. KU student tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Group rates are also available.

Cast and crew members from Kansas and the Greater Kansas City area are listed below, and a full list is available with this press release&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/shakespeares-you-it-rendered-new-light-ku-theatre" target="_blank">online</a>.

Jillian Wilson, a sophomore in theatre performance from Chanute, as Audrey. 

Andrew Bemis, a junior in theatre performance from Chapman, as Lord 1. 

Elijah Olson, a sophomore in theatre performance from Hiawatha, as Lord 2.

Michael Ostermann, a junior in chemical engineering and theatre performance from Lawrence, as Orlando. 

Elsa Bernauer, a senior in English and theatre performance from Leawood, as Rosalind. 

Matthew Reynolds, a senior in theatre performance from Overland Park, as Duke Frederick. 

Adam Baughman, a senior in theatre performance from Shawnee, as Silvius. 

Dominique Lorae, a senior in theatre performance from Shawnee, as Phoebe. 

Michelle Stelting, doctoral student from Topeka, as dramaturg. 

Brad Mathewson, a first-year student in theatre design from Topeka, as Jaques. 

India MacDonald, a first-year student in theatre performance from Topeka, as Celia. 

Aubrey McGettrick, a sophomore in theatre and Spanish from Wichita, as Madame le Beau.

Mark Nichols, a sophomore in microbiology and French, from Kansas City, Missouri, as stage manager. 

Caitlin Forgione, a theatre major from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, as assistant director.

--<a href="http://ku.edu">KU</a>--

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581220695112.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE — "As You Like It" by William Shakespeare kicks off the University Theatre’s spring season. This pastoral comedy, rendered in new light, plays weekends Feb. 21 through March 1 in the Crafton-Preyer Theatre at Murphy Hall.Director Mechele Leon’s adaptation brings the play into the world of 1930s Europe. The production highlights finding individual freedom in a world of political tyranny. As with many of Shakespeare’s works, this play includes humor, bawdiness, gender-bending disguises, love-struck characters overcoming odds, songs, dancing and a good dose of rustic revelry.Leon, a longtime faculty member of the Department of Theatre &amp; Dance, most recently directed "Spring Awakening" for University Theatre. She is working closely with Santiago Sosa, visiting assistant professor, who is serving as a text/vocal coach.“If you love a classic, this production shows how relevant Shakespeare is for our time,” Leon said. “The Crafton-Preyer Theatre will be transformed into both the all-too-real world of fascism and the fantasy of the Forest of Arden. Audiences will follow Rosalind through the forest as she carries on a hilarious charade and ultimately finds love. Student cast members are diligently working side by side with faculty actors in key roles. Moreover, faculty choreographers are bringing their talents to the production, adding delightful dances that will show off the fruits of the newly merged Department of Theatre &amp; Dance.”Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21, 22, 28 and 29 and 2:30 p.m. Feb. 23 and March 1. Tickets to "As You Like It" are on sale now at the KU University Theatre box office in Murphy Hall and online at&nbsp;kutheatre.com. Tickets are also available by calling University Theatre at 785-864-3982. Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/KU faculty and staff, and $10 for children. KU student tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Group rates are also available.Cast and crew members from Kansas and the Greater Kansas City area are listed below, and a full list is available with this press release&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/shakespeares-you-it-rendered-new-light-ku-theatre" target="_blank">online</a>.KansasJillian Wilson, a sophomore in theatre performance from Chanute, as Audrey. Andrew Bemis, a junior in theatre performance from Chapman, as Lord 1. Elijah Olson, a sophomore in theatre performance from Hiawatha, as Lord 2.Michael Ostermann, a junior in chemical engineering and theatre performance from Lawrence, as Orlando. Elsa Bernauer, a senior in English and theatre performance from Leawood, as Rosalind. Matthew Reynolds, a senior in theatre performance from Overland Park, as Duke Frederick. Adam Baughman, a senior in theatre performance from Shawnee, as Silvius. Dominique Lorae, a senior in theatre performance from Shawnee, as Phoebe. Michelle Stelting, doctoral student from Topeka, as dramaturg. Brad Mathewson, a first-year student in theatre design from Topeka, as Jaques. India MacDonald, a first-year student in theatre performance from Topeka, as Celia. Aubrey McGettrick, a sophomore in theatre and Spanish from Wichita, as Madame le Beau.MissouriMark Nichols, a sophomore in microbiology and French, from Kansas City, Missouri, as stage manager. Caitlin Forgione, a theatre major from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, as assistant director.--<a href="http://ku.edu">KU</a>--

Chapman's Bemis cast in KU production of 'As You Like It'

"Voting Changes Lives: Non-partisan Voter Engagement and Healthy Communities" is the topic of the upcoming Salina League of Women Voters Lunch and Learn presentation.

Lindsey Behgam, voter engagement director of the Main Stream Coalition is scheduled to speak from 12:15-1:15 p.m. Tuesday in the Prescott Room of Salina Public Library, 301 West Elm Street. The presentation is open to the public.

Refreshments will be provided by the league and since the event occurs over the noon hour, those who attend can bring a sack lunch into the venue.

"Voting Changes Lives: Non-partisan Voter Engagement and Healthy Communities" is the topic of the upcoming Salina League of Women Voters Lunch and Learn presentation.Lindsey Behgam, voter engagement director of the Main Stream Coalition is scheduled to speak from 12:15-1:15 p.m. Tuesday in the Prescott Room of Salina Public Library, 301 West Elm Street. The presentation is open to the public.Refreshments will be provided by the league and since the event occurs over the noon hour, those who attend can bring a sack lunch into the venue.

SLWV program to look at non-partisan voter engagement

Salina USD 305 has announced the schedule for parent-teacher conferences in the district.

Parent-teacher conferences will be held on Wednesday after school at all USD 305 schools. Conferences will be taking place all day and into the evening on Thursday in&nbsp;all buildings.

If you have questions about the conferences contact your student’s school office. Some of our schools schedule appointments while at the high schools Career and College Readiness conferences are offered. Both Central and South high schools involve Individual Plans of Study (IPS) which connect career pathways and classes students choose to their plans after high school.

At all levels, Parent-Teacher conferences are a great opportunity to ask questions, find out how your child interacts with other children and learn what you can do to help your child succeed. Research tells us parent involvement positively affects students’ grades and test scores, enrollment in higher-level programs, promotion and credits, attendance, social skills, graduation and beyond.&nbsp;Please contact your school building for more information.

There is no school for USD 305 students on Thursday and Friday. There is no school for elementary students on Feb. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581221888401.png" alt="Image courtesy USD 305" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy USD 305</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina USD 305 has announced the schedule for parent-teacher conferences in the district.Parent-teacher conferences will be held on Wednesday after school at all USD 305 schools. Conferences will be taking place all day and into the evening on Thursday in&nbsp;all buildings.If you have questions about the conferences contact your student’s school office. Some of our schools schedule appointments while at the high schools Career and College Readiness conferences are offered. Both Central and South high schools involve Individual Plans of Study (IPS) which connect career pathways and classes students choose to their plans after high school.At all levels, Parent-Teacher conferences are a great opportunity to ask questions, find out how your child interacts with other children and learn what you can do to help your child succeed. Research tells us parent involvement positively affects students’ grades and test scores, enrollment in higher-level programs, promotion and credits, attendance, social skills, graduation and beyond.&nbsp;Please contact your school building for more information.There is no school for USD 305 students on Thursday and Friday. There is no school for elementary students on Feb. 17.

USD 305 parent-teacher conferences this week

Today is Sunday, Feb. 9, the 40th day of 2020. There are 326 days left in the year.

On Feb. 9, 1943, the World War II battle of Guadalcanal in the southwest Pacific ended with an Allied victory over Japanese forces.

In 1825, the House of Representatives elected John Quincy Adams president after no candidate received a majority of electoral votes.

In 1861, Jefferson Davis was elected provisional president of the Confederate States of America at a congress held in Montgomery, Alabama.

In 1950, in a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, Sen. Joseph McCarthy, R-Wis., charged the State Department was riddled with Communists.

In 1960, Adolph Coors Co. chairman Adolph Coors III, 44, was shot to death in suburban Denver during a botched kidnapping attempt. (The man who killed him, Joseph Corbett, Jr., served 19 years in prison.)

In 1964, the Beatles made their first live American television appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show," broadcast from New York on CBS.

In 1971, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake in California's San Fernando Valley claimed 65 lives. The crew of Apollo 14 returned to Earth after man's third landing on the moon.

In 1984, Soviet leader Yuri V. Andropov, 69, died 15 months after succeeding Leonid Brezhnev; he was followed by Konstantin U. Chernenko.

In 1986, during its latest visit to the solar system, Halley's Comet came closest to the sun (its next return will be in 2061).

In 1995, Former Senator J. William Fulbright died in Washington at age 89.

In 2002, Britain's Princess Margaret, sister of Queen Elizabeth II, died in London at age 71.

In 2007, Defense Secretary Robert Gates told reporters in Munich, Germany, that serial numbers and other markings on bombs provided "pretty good" evidence that Iranians were supplying either weapons or technology to Iraqi extremists.

Ten years ago: Appealing for bipartisanship, President Barack Obama sat down with Democrats and Republicans to spur cooperation on job creation, deficit reduction and health care overhaul. First lady Michelle Obama launched her "Let's Move!" campaign against childhood obesity. Iran began enriching uranium to a higher level over the vociferous objections of the U.S. and its allies. Fred Morrison, credited with inventing the Frisbee, died in Monroe, Utah, at age 90.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, meeting at the White House, rallied behind efforts to reach a long-shot diplomatic resolution in Ukraine. More than 2 feet of fresh snow piled up in parts of New England, breaking records set during the Blizzard of 1978. Ed Sabol, the NFL Films founder who revolutionized sports broadcasting, died in Scottsdale, Arizona, at age 98.

One year ago: Virginia Democratic Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax called for authorities to investigate sexual assault allegations made against him and repeated his denials that he had ever sexually assaulted anyone; Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam, meanwhile, made his first official appearance since he acknowledged wearing blackface in the 1980s. More than a foot of snow fell in parts of the Pacific Northwest, with snow covering areas that were more accustomed to winter rain.

Today's Birthdays: Television journalist Roger Mudd is 92. Actress Janet Suzman is 81. Nobel Prize-winning author J.M. Coetzee is 80. Actress-politician Sheila James Kuehl (TV: "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis") is 79. Singer-songwriter Carole King is 78. Actor Joe Pesci is 77. Singer Barbara Lewis is 77. Author Alice Walker is 76. Actress Mia Farrow is 75. Former Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., is 74. Singer Joe Ely is 73. Actress Judith Light is 71. Rhythm-and-blues musician Dennis "DT" Thomas (Kool &amp; the Gang) is 69. Actor Charles Shaughnessy is 65. Actor Ed Amatrudo is 64. Former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe is 63. Jazz musician Steve Wilson is 59. Country singer Travis Tritt is 57. Actress Julie Warner is 55. Country singer Danni Leigh is 50. Actress Sharon Case is 49. Actor Jason George is 48. Actress Amber Valletta is 46. Actor-producer Charlie Day is 44. Rock singer Chad Wolf (Carolina Liar) is 44. Actor A.J. Buckley is 43. Rock musician Richard On (O.A.R.) is 41. Actress Ziyi Zhang is 41. Olympic silver and bronze medal figure skater Irina Slutskaya is 41. Actor Tom Hiddleston is 39. Actor David Gallagher is 35. Actor Michael B. Jordan is 33. Actress Rose Leslie is 33. Actress Marina Malota is 32. Actress Camille Winbush is 30. Actor Jimmy Bennett is 24. Actor Evan Roe (TV: "Madam Secretary") is 20.

Thought for Today: "You can fall in love at first sight with a place as with a person." — Alec Waugh, English author (1898-1981).

<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 Sunday, Feb. 9, the 40th day of 2020. There are 326 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 9, 1943, the World War II battle of Guadalcanal in the southwest Pacific ended with an Allied victory over Japanese forces.On this date:In 1825, the House of Representatives elected John Quincy Adams president after no candidate received a majority of electoral votes.In 1861, Jefferson Davis was elected provisional president of the Confederate States of America at a congress held in Montgomery, Alabama.In 1950, in a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, Sen. Joseph McCarthy, R-Wis., charged the State Department was riddled with Communists.In 1960, Adolph Coors Co. chairman Adolph Coors III, 44, was shot to death in suburban Denver during a botched kidnapping attempt. (The man who killed him, Joseph Corbett, Jr., served 19 years in prison.)In 1964, the Beatles made their first live American television appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show," broadcast from New York on CBS.In 1971, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake in California's San Fernando Valley claimed 65 lives. The crew of Apollo 14 returned to Earth after man's third landing on the moon.In 1984, Soviet leader Yuri V. Andropov, 69, died 15 months after succeeding Leonid Brezhnev; he was followed by Konstantin U. Chernenko.In 1986, during its latest visit to the solar system, Halley's Comet came closest to the sun (its next return will be in 2061).In 1995, Former Senator J. William Fulbright died in Washington at age 89.In 2002, Britain's Princess Margaret, sister of Queen Elizabeth II, died in London at age 71.In 2007, Defense Secretary Robert Gates told reporters in Munich, Germany, that serial numbers and other markings on bombs provided "pretty good" evidence that Iranians were supplying either weapons or technology to Iraqi extremists.Ten years ago: Appealing for bipartisanship, President Barack Obama sat down with Democrats and Republicans to spur cooperation on job creation, deficit reduction and health care overhaul. First lady Michelle Obama launched her "Let's Move!" campaign against childhood obesity. Iran began enriching uranium to a higher level over the vociferous objections of the U.S. and its allies. Fred Morrison, credited with inventing the Frisbee, died in Monroe, Utah, at age 90.Five years ago: President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, meeting at the White House, rallied behind efforts to reach a long-shot diplomatic resolution in Ukraine. More than 2 feet of fresh snow piled up in parts of New England, breaking records set during the Blizzard of 1978. Ed Sabol, the NFL Films founder who revolutionized sports broadcasting, died in Scottsdale, Arizona, at age 98.One year ago: Virginia Democratic Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax called for authorities to investigate sexual assault allegations made against him and repeated his denials that he had ever sexually assaulted anyone; Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam, meanwhile, made his first official appearance since he acknowledged wearing blackface in the 1980s. More than a foot of snow fell in parts of the Pacific Northwest, with snow covering areas that were more accustomed to winter rain.Today's Birthdays: Television journalist Roger Mudd is 92. Actress Janet Suzman is 81. Nobel Prize-winning author J.M. Coetzee is 80. Actress-politician Sheila James Kuehl (TV: "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis") is 79. Singer-songwriter Carole King is 78. Actor Joe Pesci is 77. Singer Barbara Lewis is 77. Author Alice Walker is 76. Actress Mia Farrow is 75. Former Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., is 74. Singer Joe Ely is 73. Actress Judith Light is 71. Rhythm-and-blues musician Dennis "DT" Thomas (Kool &amp; the Gang) is 69. Actor Charles Shaughnessy is 65. Actor Ed Amatrudo is 64. Former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe is 63. Jazz musician Steve Wilson is 59. Country singer Travis Tritt is 57. Actress Julie Warner is 55. Country singer Danni Leigh is 50. Actress Sharon Case is 49. Actor Jason George is 48. Actress Amber Valletta is 46. Actor-producer Charlie Day is 44. Rock singer Chad Wolf (Carolina Liar) is 44. Actor A.J. Buckley is 43. Rock musician Richard On (O.A.R.) is 41. Actress Ziyi Zhang is 41. Olympic silver and bronze medal figure skater Irina Slutskaya is 41. Actor Tom Hiddleston is 39. Actor David Gallagher is 35. Actor Michael B. Jordan is 33. Actress Rose Leslie is 33. Actress Marina Malota is 32. Actress Camille Winbush is 30. Actor Jimmy Bennett is 24. Actor Evan Roe (TV: "Madam Secretary") is 20.Thought for Today: "You can fall in love at first sight with a place as with a person." — Alec Waugh, English author (1898-1981).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Feb 9

WINFIELD -- Top scholars at Southwestern College in Winfield and at Southwestern College Professional Studies have been announced with the release of the Dean's Honor Roll for the fall 2019 semester. 

Full-time students who earned grade point averages of at least 3.70 (4.0 equals an A) were eligible for the honor.

Local and area students named to the Dean's Honor Roll at Southwestern College include the following.

WINFIELD -- Top scholars at Southwestern College in Winfield and at Southwestern College Professional Studies have been announced with the release of the Dean's Honor Roll for the fall 2019 semester. Full-time students who earned grade point averages of at least 3.70 (4.0 equals an A) were eligible for the honor.Local and area students named to the Dean's Honor Roll at Southwestern College include the following.

HillsboroBreanna DittertSalinaKallie AlbrechtJessica Coleman

Local, area students named to Southwestern honor roll

OLATHE – The work that Kansas State University researchers do to determine the best and safest ways to grow tasty, nutritious fresh vegetables has yielded a bountiful benefit for hungry Kansas and Missouri families.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fresh produce research at K-State’s Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center during the 2019 growing season resulted in a donation of 11,241 pounds of fresh produce to After the Harvest, a non-profit gleaner in Kansas City, Missouri. ATH is the largest produce donor to Harvesters – The Community Food Network. Harvesters is a regional food bank serving 26 counties in northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri from facilities in Topeka, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri. Harvesters provides food to more than 760 nonprofit agencies including emergency food pantries, community kitchens, homeless shelters, children’s homes and others.

“Our partnership with ATH creates a win-win situation. Our graduate students get the vegetables they need to conduct important research and our center helps fulfill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/reports/grandchallenges.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension’s Grand Challenges</a>&nbsp;by reducing food waste and donating fresh, nutritious produce to help families stretch their food dollars,” said Cary Rivard, Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center director. Since 2016, the center has donated more than 40,000 pounds of fresh vegetables to ATH.

Donated vegetables – tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, lettuce, and spinach in 2019 – were grown for research projects of graduate students in the Urban Food Systems program at K-State Olathe and for variety trials. The amount of vegetables required for research was sorted and taken to K-State Olathe’s laboratory for analysis. All remaining vegetables were made available to After the Harvest. Each week during the growing season, ATH volunteers gathered vegetables not used for research.

Additional produce grown at the K-State Olathe Horticulture Center by a Johnson County Extension Master Gardeners group in its Backyard Garden Demonstration Plot was donated directly to the Olathe Salvation Army Food Pantry. The&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/master-gardeners/" target="_blank">Extension Master Gardener</a>&nbsp;program is a volunteer program in which K-State Research and Extension "trades" classroom training for volunteer time, all of which is coordinated by a local (county or district) extension agent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581208468407.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University's Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center collaborated with After the Harvest to donate more than 11,000 pounds of fresh produce to Kansas and Missouri food banks. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University's Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center collaborated with After the Harvest to donate more than 11,000 pounds of fresh produce to Kansas and Missouri food banks. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>OLATHE – The work that Kansas State University researchers do to determine the best and safest ways to grow tasty, nutritious fresh vegetables has yielded a bountiful benefit for hungry Kansas and Missouri families.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fresh produce research at K-State’s Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center during the 2019 growing season resulted in a donation of 11,241 pounds of fresh produce to After the Harvest, a non-profit gleaner in Kansas City, Missouri. ATH is the largest produce donor to Harvesters – The Community Food Network. Harvesters is a regional food bank serving 26 counties in northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri from facilities in Topeka, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri. Harvesters provides food to more than 760 nonprofit agencies including emergency food pantries, community kitchens, homeless shelters, children’s homes and others.“Our partnership with ATH creates a win-win situation. Our graduate students get the vegetables they need to conduct important research and our center helps fulfill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/reports/grandchallenges.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension’s Grand Challenges</a>&nbsp;by reducing food waste and donating fresh, nutritious produce to help families stretch their food dollars,” said Cary Rivard, Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center director. Since 2016, the center has donated more than 40,000 pounds of fresh vegetables to ATH.Donated vegetables – tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, lettuce, and spinach in 2019 – were grown for research projects of graduate students in the Urban Food Systems program at K-State Olathe and for variety trials. The amount of vegetables required for research was sorted and taken to K-State Olathe’s laboratory for analysis. All remaining vegetables were made available to After the Harvest. Each week during the growing season, ATH volunteers gathered vegetables not used for research.Additional produce grown at the K-State Olathe Horticulture Center by a Johnson County Extension Master Gardeners group in its Backyard Garden Demonstration Plot was donated directly to the Olathe Salvation Army Food Pantry. The&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/master-gardeners/" target="_blank">Extension Master Gardener</a>&nbsp;program is a volunteer program in which K-State Research and Extension "trades" classroom training for volunteer time, all of which is coordinated by a local (county or district) extension agent.

K-State vegetable research leads to food bank donation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

Have a dream of performing (not playing) at Kauffman Stadium? The Royals are holding auditions. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals</a> Facebook page:

Have a dream of performing (not playing) at Kauffman Stadium? The Royals are holding auditions. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fposts%2F10157079505663691%3A0&width=500" width="500" height="478" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Royals Fans Got Talent auditions set for March 7

Salina Area Technical College is joining nearly 100 other technical colleges across the nation Feb. 20 in hosting an event to recognize and celebrate students who are entering the college in the fall of 2020.

The event, called National Technical Letter of Intent Signing Day, is similar to the signing days colleges have long hosted for incoming student-athletes. The event is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field, and to celebrate the dignity of work. It will start at 10 a.m. Feb. 20 in Building ‘A’ on the Salina Tech campus.

Incoming students are encouraged to bring family and friends to the event. Groups of incoming students will come to the front of the room to be recognized and seated, sign their letters of intent and receive a Salina Tech cap. Each student participating in Signing Day will receive a $250 scholarship redeemable in the fall semester of 2020.

The idea for a technical college signing day started at Washburn Tech in 2014 and has since expanded to technical colleges nationwide. The event is sponsored by the National Coalition of Certification Centers, and individual member industries such as Kubota, Snap-on, Trane and 3M.

Local industry leaders that hire Salina Tech graduates are also invited to the signing day, and students will have an opportunity to meet their future employers and learn about high-demand careers in fields such as manufacturing, transportation and health care.

“By signing our incoming students to letters of intent, we’re telling them we’ve reserved a place for them, and we want them,” said Salina Tech President Greg Nichols. “Industry leaders are excited about this opportunity because it validates the students and their decisions to pursue technical education and provides an opportunity for industry representatives to meet these future workers.”

Salina Tech is in the process of contacting and inviting students who have applied for admission in the fall of 2020. Applicants that have not yet been contacted may contact the admissions office at 785-309-3100 or <a href="mailto:admissions@salinatech.edu">admissions@salinatech.edu</a>. The deadline to register is Feb. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579830741679.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Area Technical College is joining nearly 100 other technical colleges across the nation Feb. 20 in hosting an event to recognize and celebrate students who are entering the college in the fall of 2020.The event, called National Technical Letter of Intent Signing Day, is similar to the signing days colleges have long hosted for incoming student-athletes. The event is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field, and to celebrate the dignity of work. It will start at 10 a.m. Feb. 20 in Building ‘A’ on the Salina Tech campus.Incoming students are encouraged to bring family and friends to the event. Groups of incoming students will come to the front of the room to be recognized and seated, sign their letters of intent and receive a Salina Tech cap. Each student participating in Signing Day will receive a $250 scholarship redeemable in the fall semester of 2020.The idea for a technical college signing day started at Washburn Tech in 2014 and has since expanded to technical colleges nationwide. The event is sponsored by the National Coalition of Certification Centers, and individual member industries such as Kubota, Snap-on, Trane and 3M.Local industry leaders that hire Salina Tech graduates are also invited to the signing day, and students will have an opportunity to meet their future employers and learn about high-demand careers in fields such as manufacturing, transportation and health care.“By signing our incoming students to letters of intent, we’re telling them we’ve reserved a place for them, and we want them,” said Salina Tech President Greg Nichols. “Industry leaders are excited about this opportunity because it validates the students and their decisions to pursue technical education and provides an opportunity for industry representatives to meet these future workers.”Salina Tech is in the process of contacting and inviting students who have applied for admission in the fall of 2020. Applicants that have not yet been contacted may contact the admissions office at 785-309-3100 or <a href="mailto:admissions@salinatech.edu">admissions@salinatech.edu</a>. The deadline to register is Feb. 17.

Salina Tech to host 'Signing Day' on Feb. 20

On Friday, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasGeologicalSurvey/">Kansas Geological Survey</a> (KGS) posted the following on its Facebook page.

A bit later, the ground under southern Marion County gave a little shake.

According to KGS, a magnitude 2 earthquake struck about 10:33 a.m. Friday. It was south of Florence and east-southeast of Peabody, centered between Xavier Road and U.S. 77, just a bit north of 50th Street.

On Friday, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasGeologicalSurvey/">Kansas Geological Survey</a> (KGS) posted the following on its Facebook page.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasGeologicalSurvey%2Fposts%2F2681291561924893&width=500" width="500" height="191" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>A bit later, the ground under southern Marion County gave a little shake.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581174246578.jpeg" alt="Map courtesy KGS" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy KGS</figcaption>
 </figure>According to KGS, a magnitude 2 earthquake struck about 10:33 a.m. Friday. It was south of Florence and east-southeast of Peabody, centered between Xavier Road and U.S. 77, just a bit north of 50th Street.

Marion County quake breaks KGS streak

Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA squad captured an impressive 29 medals, 15 of them first-place honors, at the 2020 state meet, held on Monday at Tabor College in Hillsboro.

Four KWU competitors—Matthew Whitsitt (Newton, Ryann Kats (Prairie View, Dillon Harriger (Kearney, Mo.) and Autumn Colgin (Canton)—led the team with two first-place medals apiece. KWU grabbed the top two spots in both the travel and tourism and fashion merchandising and marketing events, and captured multiple podium finishes in four other competitions as well.

“Our DECA students have not only established themselves as the state’s best competitors over the last three years, but also as legitimate contenders at the national competition,” said KWU head coach Brylee New ’17. “I am extremely proud of the reputation they are continuing to build for both our program and our school.”&nbsp;

KWU’s 29 medals give the program 72 state medals in its mere three years of existence, to go along with quality results at nationals that have included multiple top-10 placings.

KWU DECA will return to action April 22–25, when select members of the squad travel to Atlanta, Ga., to take part in the national DECA event.

Business Ethics: Nathan Merc and Matthew Whitsitt, first place

Business to Business: Megan Schutz and Hailey Vandevanter, first place

Event Planning: Meredith Angelotti and Haylie Rodriguez, third place

Entrepreneurship Operations: Dillon Harriger, first place

Fashion Merchandising and Marketing: Karley Benson, first place and Austin Wiley, second place

Hotel and Lodging: Tifanie Becker, second place and Haylie Rodriguez, third place

Human Resource Management: Courtney Brockhoff, second place and Taylor Lang, third place

International Marketing: Dillon Harriger and Taylor Lang, first place

Managerial Accounting: Matthew Whitsitt, first place

Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA squad captured an impressive 29 medals, 15 of them first-place honors, at the 2020 state meet, held on Monday at Tabor College in Hillsboro.Four KWU competitors—Matthew Whitsitt (Newton, Ryann Kats (Prairie View, Dillon Harriger (Kearney, Mo.) and Autumn Colgin (Canton)—led the team with two first-place medals apiece. KWU grabbed the top two spots in both the travel and tourism and fashion merchandising and marketing events, and captured multiple podium finishes in four other competitions as well.“Our DECA students have not only established themselves as the state’s best competitors over the last three years, but also as legitimate contenders at the national competition,” said KWU head coach Brylee New ’17. “I am extremely proud of the reputation they are continuing to build for both our program and our school.”&nbsp;KWU’s 29 medals give the program 72 state medals in its mere three years of existence, to go along with quality results at nationals that have included multiple top-10 placings.KWU DECA will return to action April 22–25, when select members of the squad travel to Atlanta, Ga., to take part in the national DECA event.KWU State DECA ResultsBusiness Ethics: Nathan Merc and Matthew Whitsitt, first placeBusiness to Business: Megan Schutz and Hailey Vandevanter, first placeEvent Planning: Meredith Angelotti and Haylie Rodriguez, third placeEntrepreneurship Operations: Dillon Harriger, first placeFashion Merchandising and Marketing: Karley Benson, first place and Austin Wiley, second placeHotel and Lodging: Tifanie Becker, second place and Haylie Rodriguez, third placeHuman Resource Management: Courtney Brockhoff, second place and Taylor Lang, third placeInternational Marketing: Dillon Harriger and Taylor Lang, first placeManagerial Accounting: Matthew Whitsitt, first placeMarketing and Communications: Autumn Colgin and Ryann Kats, first place and Karley Benson and Emily Monson, third placeMarketing Management: Autumn Colgin, first placeRestaurant and Food Service Management: Tifanie Becker, first placeRetail Management: Nathan Mercer, second place and Meredith Angelotti, third placeSales Management Meeting: Ryann Kats, first placeSports and Entertainment Marketing: Eli Truhe and Austin Wiley, second placeTravel and Tourism: Emily Monson, first place and Eli Truhe, second place--<a href="http://kwu.edu">KWU</a>--