State Line Shopper - January 18, 2021 by Authentic Ag

January 18, 2021

PRESORT STANDARD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID

State Line Shopper

PO Box 118 Phillipsburg, KS 67661 785-533-0104 email: statelineshopper@gmail.com

Authentic Ag, Inc.

postal customer

Let the Tripe Experience Work for You!

$43,500

2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD, "Red Hot" exterior, 32K miles

$43,900

$35,900

Now $36,750

2016 Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD, Summit White ext., 46K miles

2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country, 4WD, Crew Cab, Short Box, 46K miles

Call to schedule your vehicle repair or maintenance in our full service shop!

2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab, Short Box, Gray, 61K miles

TRIPE308-928-2106 MOTOR Co. 814 Hwy 183 Alma, NE

www.tripechevrolet.com

It's Bull Sale Season! Attention Cattle Producers: Let us help you advertise your upcoming Production Sale.

State Line Shopper can deliver your ad to businesses and households in North Central Kansas and South Centeral Nebraska as well as online at our website www.statelineshopper.com.

Call us today at 785-533-0104 or email us at statelineshopper@gmail.com Special rates may apply!

PAGE 2

State Line Shopper

January 18, 2021

Explore conservation careers with Game and Parks virtual chats Federation of State Beef Councils Sponsors CareerChatLandsBi- the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. 300 Ever wondered what are: Jan. 20: Outdoor ologist a day in the life of a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officer is really like? Or what equipment the zoologist uses to track tiger beetles? How about how many miles the public information officers hike to get photos for a Nebraskaland story? Wonder no more. During 2021, Game and Parks will host a monthly virtual Conservation Career Chat featuring one of 12 jobs within the agency. The live interviews will be at 10 a.m. CST on the third Wednesday of each month. Registration is not required, and the chats are free to join through the unique URLs below. The scheduled chats

education specialist, bit.ly/CareerChatOutdoorEd - Feb. 17: Zoologist, bit.ly/CareerChatZoologist - March 17: Aquatic invasive species program manager, bit.ly/ CareerChatAIS - April 21: Conservation officer, bit.ly/CareerChatCO - May 19: Public relations manager, bit. ly/CareerChatPR - June 16: Fisheries outreach program manager, bit.ly/CareerChatFisheriesOutreach - July 21: Public information officer/ Nebraskaland photographer, bit.ly/CareerChatNebraskaland - Aug. 18: Private lands biologist, bit.ly/

- Sept. 15: Recreation planner, bit.ly/CareerChatRecPlanner - Oct. 12: Nebraska natural legacy biologist, bit.ly/CareerChatNaturalLegacy - Nov. 17: Park superintendent, bit.ly/CareerChatParkSuper - Dec. 15: Carnivore program manager, bit. ly/CareerChatCarnivore Participants — particularly students interested in conservation careers — are encouraged to ask questions relating to the career field during the live interview. Presenters will showcase photos, props and other information about their job. Can’t attend live? Each virtual event will be recorded and posted to the Game and Parks Education Channel on YouTube. Search “Nebraska Game and Parks Education” on the social platform and subscribe for future videos. For more information, contact Monica Macoubrie at monica. macoubrie@nebraska.gov.

Historic partnership with the Daytona International Speedway brings Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. to broadcast television in NASCAR’s season-opening race

The Federation of State Beef Councils, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, has partnered with the Daytona International Speedway to sponsor the 40th season-opening race for the NASCAR Xfinity Series - the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300. The event is set for a 5 p.m. ET start on Saturday, Feb. 13, the day before the 63rd Annual DAYTONA 500. “Despite the extraordinary and challenging circumstances 2020 dealt cattle farmers and ranchers across the country, they persevered to keep the delicious beef Americans know and love on store shelves,” said Clay Burtrum, Federation Division Vice Chair for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff. “This

WANTED:

Service Technician Job Description: Oil changes, detail and other odd jobs as needed. Experience is preferred; training can be provided. Stop by Matteson Motors, 276 W. State St., Phillipsburg, KS for an application, or call 785-543-2423 with any questions.

sponsorship celebrates all the industry has overcome in this historic year for beef, which demonstrated that Americans continue to choose beef as their preferred protein.” With production support from NCBA, this historic partnership provides an opportunity for the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand to return to broadcast television for the second time since 2003. In December, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. returned to broadcast television after 17 years, airing a limited number of ads during the Hallmark Channel’s Countdown to Christmas movies. In addition to production support, NCBA, will be hosting a satellite media tour featuring celebrity chef Hugh Acheson. Chef Acheson will be interviewed by television and radio stations across the country to talk about the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300 and share delicious

beef recipes that are perfect for tailgating, or homegating, on race day. DeAnne Maples, Florida Beef Council’s Director of Beef Marketing and Promotion, said, “Showcasing the Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. brand on broadcast television allows us to reach even more consumers at home and gives beef farmers and ranchers something to celebrate on a national stage.” The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300 expands a current partnership between Beef Checkoff and Daytona International Speedway. In 2020, the track produced “Race Day Recipes” on digital channels in which Speedway President Chip Wile demonstrated his beef grilling expertise to showcase the NASCAR experience - especially to campers and tailgaters who love to enjoy delicious beef recipes as part of their celebration of NASCAR events.

The Deadline for our Next Issue is noon on WEDNESDAY, January 20. You may submit your ad by email to statelineshopper@gmail.com or by text/phone: 785-533-0104.

January 18, 2021

State Line Shopper

PAGE 3

Specialized rods, reels not necessary for ice-fishing beginners Supreme Court to Review By Daryl Bauer Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Venture to a tackle shop where ice-fishing gear is on display and you will see aisles filled with ice-fishing rods and reels. The first thing you will notice about that equipment is the length. The rods are short. They are short to allow anglers to fish closer to their hole. However, if you are just getting started ice-fishing, do not think you have to purchase specialized ice-fishing rods and reels. You can use some of the rods and reels you already own. You will just stand a little farther from the hole. Generally, you will want to use lighter lines and corresponding rods and reels to catch fish through the ice. Waters tend to be clearer under the ice, and fish tend to feed less in the colder water. Therefore, lighter lines, and the tackle needed to handle those lighter lines and smaller baits, are most appropriate for ice-fishing. For panfish, lines as light as 2- and even 1-pound test may be needed to catch fish in the clearest water. However, 4- and 6-pound test lines are good all-purpose lines for most panfish caught through the ice. Heavier lines may be appropriate for larger predator

fish like bass and walleyes, but even 6-, 8-, and 10-pound test lines will work for almost all situations. Any lines heavier than that usually will only be used for specialized ice-fishing gear like tip-ups. If you are going to use some of the open-water gear you already own, you will probably want to select the lightest and shortest to get started. Also consider that you might be able to take retired gear and even broken rods and modify them for use on the ice. If you are ready to invest in rods and reels specifically designed for ice-fishing, you will find a variety of options and prices. You do not have to spend a lot of money to get started, and rod-andreel combinations are good starter outfits. Fiberglass rods and matching reels can be relatively inexpensive and work very well. Keep in mind that the main variables to consider are length of the rod, weight and action. Stay on the light side for panfish, tackle up to heavier rods with stiffer actions for larger fish, but even then think light for ice-fishing. All ice-fishing rods are relatively short, but it is all relative. The shortest rods are best for fishing inside shelters, while longer ice-fishing rods are favored by anglers

who stay mobile and fish outside of shelters. Spinning gear is most commonly used for ice-fishing, but spincast and even casting gear can be adapted and used in some situations. Again, select reels that are appropriate for the lines being used and can be matched to the corresponding rods. Spend what you can afford, but quality reels that will get the job done do not have to be the most expensive. You may be able to “double-up” and switch some reels from open-water to ice-fishing, or if you wish, devote reels to full-time ice-fishing use. Dress warm, be safe and have fun on the ice this winter. For information on ice-fishing safety, watch a video at outdoornebraska.gov/howtofish. Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at virtual Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in Jan. 16 and 19. Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host the classroom clinics via Zoom. Register to attend one or both sessions by going to the calendar event entries at calendar. outdoornebraska.gov.

Biofuel Blending Case The U.S. Supreme Court last week announced it will review the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit’s decision in a case against the Environmental Protection Agency. The decision overturned three inappropriately granted small refinery exemptions under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Plaintiffs in the case include the Renewable Fuels As-

sociation, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union and American Coalition for Ethanol. In a joint statement, the organization says, "Our groups believe the Tenth Circuit got it right the first time, and we will continue to defend the court's ruling." In January of last year, the Tenth Circuit court struck

down the exemptions by the Environmental Protection Agency. Last month, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a recommendation against a Supreme Court review. The Justice Department says in its brief that, “The issue didn’t warrant the high court’s review and stated that the refiners’ petition asking for a review ‘should be denied.”

2021 Kansas Corn Management School Webinars Announced Kansas Corn is partnering with K-State Research and Extension to offer winter learning sessions for Kansas corn farmers. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Kansas Corn Management Schools will be held through a series of three webinars. Each webinar will start at 7 p.m. and include two presentations with a question-and-answer session. Participants will have the opportunity to hear the latest research and production information and hear updates on markets and corn policy issues. These sessions are free for farmers to attend. Webinar Dates and Topics: Thursday, January 21, 2021 at 7 p.m. Nutrient Management Considerations for Corn in 2021, Dr. Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, Kansas State University Management Practices in Corn, Dr. Ignacio Ciampitti, Kansas State University

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021 at 7 p.m. Weed Control, Dr. Sara Lancaster, Kansas State University Planter Technology— Lessons Learned for Corn, Dr. Ajay Sharda, Kansas State University

Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021 at 7 p.m. Markets and Futures Prices, Dr. Dan O’Brien, Kansas State University KCGA Policy Achievements and Ambitions – Josh Roe, Kansas Corn “Despite today’s current challenges with COVID, participating online provides an opportunity for corn farmers to learn the latest research findings on key topics and what

M &

challenges to watch out for in agronomy, markets and policy,” said Kansas Corn V.P. of Market Development and Policy Josh Roe. The webinars are offered at free for growers thanks to support from Premier Sponsor Pioneer Seeds, and Supporting Sponsor Compass Minerals. Participants are asked to pre-register online to receive the information and links to the webinar. Get more information and register online at kscorn. com/cornschool or by phone by calling Kansas Corn at 785-4105009. Website address: https://kscorn.com/ cornschool/

MAPES & MILLER Certified Public Accountants P.O. Box 266 711 3rd Street Phillipsburg, KS 67661

Rebecca A. Lix, CPA Partner

Office 785-543-6561

Denis W. Miller, CPA Partner

Email: mmpburg@ruraltel.net

PAGE 4

State Line Shopper

January 18, 2021

Kansas Chamber Annual Business Leaders Poll Finds Concerns about COVID-19 impact; State Business Environment Concerns about the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent actions taken by the state of Kansas topped the Kansas Chamber's 17th edition of its Annual Business Leaders Poll. “Each year the Kansas Chamber asks business leaders to name the most important issues

207 W. Main St.

they face. Taxes always have been at the top, but the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was an even more intense issue for businesses in 2020," said Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb. “It is no secret the shutdown and other restrictions by state and local governments hurt certain businesses as well

Logan, KS

Lunch & Supper Specials!

Dine In - Curbside - Takeout Call: 785-689-8265 Hours: Tues. through Sat. Noon - ?? Closed Sunday and Monday

Call Kelly Link Floorcovering ~ Let us clean your tile, grout & carpet!

We USE the Latest Technology to do your carpet cleaning! All equipment is contained inside so we won’t be letting in the weather! Call for appointment! Your carpet and furniture will appreciate it! We also clean tile & grout! Carpet • Wood Your One Stop for Porcelain Tile • Laminate Quality Floorcovering Luxury Vinyl Products Sales and Installation

Kelly Link Floorcovering

Kelly Link Owner/Installer

785-533-5465 (LINK)

Showroom Location 393 “F” St., Phillipsburg, KS

Owned and Operated by Authentic Ag, Inc. Ken and Lori Rahjes PO Box 118 Phillipsburg, KS 67661 Cell: 785-533-0104 Email: statelineshopper@gmail.com

as our state’s economy tremendously. Our poll found the operations of nearly every business has been directly impacted. 66% reported supply chain issues while 46% believe the state’s response to the pandemic was more than what was necessary.” Cobb continued, “From the early days and weeks of the virus' spread, Kansas businesses worked to repurpose their facilities to manufacture much needed personal protection equipment (PPE) and sanitizer. They established safe workplaces as they reopened and their employees and customers returned. Unless Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Legislature take the necessary steps to remove barriers to growth and improve our state’s business climate, our overall economic outlook will remain at risk.” The Chamber commissions Cole Hargrave

Snodgrass and Associates (CHS) annually to conduct a scientific poll of 300 Kansas business leaders to gauge their thoughts and concerns regarding the Kansas business and political climates. Among the traditional business concerns, taxes remain the top issue. “Fifty-two percent of business leaders polled cited lower taxes on business as most important to profitability,” said CHS President Pat McFerron. McFerron said when it comes to the Kansas workforce, business leaders are optimistic about hiring in the coming year. "And as what generally happens during an economic crises when there is less competition, satisfaction with the state’s workforce has increased," said McFerron. "Still, there continues to be apprehensions about the quality of the work-

AgView.net - check us out! You can also find us online at: www.statelineshopper.com

force. 57% are concerned about finding employees with soft skills while 25% worry about identifying employees with technical skills their companies need." Other poll highlights from Kansas business leaders: --77% believe Kansas should cut state spending rather than raise taxes --75% want more funding going into K-12 classrooms --63% believe it would help the Kansas economy to lower taxes --60% believe it is more important to improve student performance than to increase funding for schools --54% don't believe Kansas has the best business climate when compared to other states --49% believe their businesses pay too much in taxes while 5% want to pay more "Hearing directly from Kansas business lead-

ers is vital to the economic growth of our state. It provides the Kansas Chamber a clear understanding of the challenges their companies face on a year-by-year basis,” said Cobb. “We use their input to help determine the issues and policies important to the state’s business community and then share those priorities through our legislative agenda. It is our hope the governor and state lawmakers keep these poll findings in mind as they consider the many important decisions they will make during the 2021 legislative session.” CHS has conducted the Chamber’s Annual Business Leaders poll since 2004. The participating businesses reflect company sizes and industry sectors that make up the Kansas business community according to Dun and Bradstreet and are not necessarily members of the Kansas Chamber.

January 18, 2021

Sheet-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice 3 garlic cloves, minced 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary or 1/4 Directions:

teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed 1/4 teaspoon pepper 6 bone-in chicken thighs 6 chicken drumsticks 1 pound baby red potatoes, halved 1 medium lemon, sliced 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 425°. In a small bowl, whisk the first 7 ingredients until blended. Pour 1/4 cup marinade into a large bowl or shallow dish. Add chicken and turn to coat. Refrigerate 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade. Drain chicken, discarding any remaining marinade in bowl. Place chicken in a 15x10x1-in. baking pan; add potatoes in a single layer. Drizzle reserved marinade over potatoes; top with lemon slices. Bake until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 170°-175° and potatoes are tender, 40-45 minutes. If desired, broil chicken 3-4 inches from heat until deep golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley before serving. Nutrition Facts 1 chicken thigh and 1 chicken leg with 1/2 cups potatoes: 483 calories, 29g fat (7g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 507mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 39g protein.

Kingsbury Septic and Pumping FAST • FRIENDLY • EFFICIENT

• Septic Maintenance, Repairs & Installation • Drain Cleaning • Portable Toilets • Drain Line and Tank Locating Services * Over 16 years of Experience! *

Put the POO CREW to work for you!

Kingsbury Septic and Pumping

785-282-0255

Clothing~Accessories~Bags & Purses~Shoes Our mission is to bring you thoughtfully curated style at affordable prices. Whether you prefer modern, casual, or sophisticated style; each piece is hand-selected with you in mind.

www.flatlandtradingcompany.com

State Line Shopper

PAGE 5

Farm Tractor Sales USDA Announces Details of the 2021 Agricultural Outlook Forum Program Department of Ag- build resilience during session on genetic literaFinish 2020 Higher The riculture Monday an- the COVID-19 pandem- cy are also scheduled on Farm tractor and combine sales finish the year with solid growth across the U.S., while sales in most sectors in Canada were also positive. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers reports U.S. total farm tractor sales rose 26.8 percent in December compared to 2019 while U.S. combine sales fell 1.9 percent. U.S. four-wheel-drive units fell slightly in December, down 3.7 percent, with year-todate sales finishing up 3.7 percent. 100+hp posted healthy growth in December, up 21.8 percent, finishing the year up 3.2 percent. Total yea to date farm tractors out the door are up 17.9 percent in 2020, while combines finished 2020 up 5.5 percent. AEM’s Curt Blades says, "despite uncertainty in the overall economy, the ag equipment market has been pretty strong." For Canada, total farm tractor sales were up 10.6 percent for 2020, while combine sales fell 30 percent on the month, and 13.9 percent for the year.

nounced details of the 97th annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, which will be held virtually on February 18-19, 2021. The 2021 Forum, themed "Building on Innovation: A Pathway to Resilience," will focus on the central role science and innovation have played in helping agriculture overcome challenges and

ic. The Forum's program will begin with a presentation by USDA's new Chief Economist, Dr. Seth Meyer, on the Department's outlook for U.S. commodity markets and trade for 2021 and U.S. farm income. A keynote address by the incoming Agriculture Secretary, presentations by Congressional leaders, and a

the first day of the Forum. The program will also cover five key areas, including supply chain resilience, food price and farm income outlooks, trade, managing risks, and finally, innovation. The 2021 Forum is expected to bring together more than 3,000 participants. The Forum's program includes more than 30 sessions and 100 expert speakers.

Oxford , NE

85% Lean Ground Beef One Lb. Pkgs $3.29/lb.

20 Pound Bundles Still taking Boneless DEER Trim. Check our website for sausage selection and prices! FOLLOW US on FACEBOOK to See Our SPECIALS & New Items

Now scheduling October 2021 beef & hog processing appointments Hours: 8am - 5pm, Mon.-Fri. and 8am-3pm Saturday QUALITY YOU CAN COUNT ON!

Attention Cattle Producers:

Let State Line Shopper help you get the word out for your Production Sale. We reach businesses and households in north central Kansas and south central Nebraska.

Call us today: 785-533-0104 Special rates may apply!

PAGE 6

State Line Shopper

January 18, 2021

Phillips County Health Systems Recognized for Performance Stabenow Leads Advocates in Urging USDA Leadership in Quality and Patient Perspective to Prioritize Protections for Food Workers Phillips County Health Systems has been recognized by The Chartis Center of Rural Health and the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) for overall excellence in Quality as well as in Patient Perspective. The Performance Leadership Award program utilizes the results of the Hospital Strength INDEX® to recognize top performance among Critical Access Hospitals and Rural & Community Hospitals. “Phillips County Health Systems (PCHS) has a strong commitment to providing patient-centered, quality care close to home. These awards demonstrate

this commitment and the dedication of our staff,” said Chief Strategy Officer, Tara Overmiller. “We are very honored to receive these two awards. They show that despite directing many of our efforts in 2020 towards the COVID-19 response, our team at PCHS continues to provide the high-quality care that our community and patients should expect from their local healthcare provider.” Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the INDEX is the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Based entirely on publicly available data sources, the INDEX methodology is the data foun-

dation for a number of industry-leading rural recognition programs, rural health safety net-related research, and legislative initiatives. Performance Leadership Award recipients are rural hospitals ranking in the 75th percentile or above in the INDEX performance pillars for Quality, Outcomes, or Patient Perspective.

“Despite the fact that COVID-19 has created greater instability across the rural health safety net, we continue to see countless examples of rural hospitals rising to the challenge to serve their communities,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “I believe this dedication to the

Classified Ads are $5.00 for the first ten words, then $0.25 per word thereafter. Please pre-pay classified ad when you mail it to: State Line Shopper PO Box 118 Phillipsburg, KS 67661 PLEASE NOTE: Our next Deadline is WEDNESDAY by noon.

mission and drive to overcome unexpected challenges echoes the long-standing commitment among rural hospitals to deliver high-quality care. We are thrilled to honor this year’s top performers.”

“Across the nation, rural hospitals have been working exceptionally hard to adjust to the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic. While it has not been an easy year, I believe the perseverance displayed by rural hospitals and their partners at the State Offices of Rural Health exemplifies the true spirit of rural health,” said Teryl Eisinger, Chief Executive Officer, NOSORH. “We are delighted to join The Chartis Center for Rural Health in honoring the 2020 Performance Leadership Award winners.”

Help Wanted Norton Area: Sales person wanted for area print/online publication. Position can be part or full-time. Experience preferred but will train the right person. Generous perfomance-based compensation. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required. Email resume with references to: statelineshopper@gmail.com

Senator Debbie Stabenow, the incoming Senate Agriculture Committee chair, this week urged the Department of Agriculture to implement the bipartisan worker protection provisions in the COVID-19 assistance package. The Michigan Democrat says, "In order to repair our food supply and feed families in need, USDA must prioritize safety in addition to food purchases." In the recently passed COVID-19 assistance package, Congress provided no less than $1.5 billion to fund food purchases for distribution to those in need,

provide worker protection measures, and retooling support for farmers, farmers markets, and food processors. The provision was inspired by Stabenow's bipartisan Food Supply Protection Act to help protect the food supply after the COVID-19 crisis put an unprecedented strain on farmers, workers and food banks. USDA recently announced funding for food purchases through the Farmers to Families Food Box program, but has yet to commit additional funds to protect workers and ensure the continuity of the food supply chain.

AFBF President: Turn the Page on Partisanship A top farm organization leader says it is time to "turn the page" on partisan politics. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall made the comments during an opening press conference as part of the American Farm Bureau Federation Virtual Annual Convention. Duvall's remarks follow last week's rally and attack on the U.S. capitol. Duvall says, “we have got to work together, as one country, one people, for the good of all the people in this country.” Farm Bureau members will develop policy prior-

ities this week for the organization to follow in 2021. With the incoming Biden administration, top priorities are expected to be climate change, taxes and labor, along with strengthening the farm bill. Duvall says, “We must make sure that we are at the table for the discussions around addressing climate change,” adding, “I believe agriculture’s great track record shows just how much we can achieve when farmers and ranchers are at the table when we develop solutions.”

January 18, 2021

State Line Shopper a high level of trust on a group of local stakeholders to implement “In a year of ‘living on munity meal programs, plans to distribute those the financial edge' this of which nearly $6,000 funds. The committees represented some sol- have been used to supthat oversaw the appliid footing with which port holiday meal sercation/submission proto take a few steps for- vices and food basket cess were united by a ward.” deliveries. shared vision and commitment to serving our The City of Norton was “With so many busicommunity.” successful in convert- nesses and nonprofits ing CDBG funds into facing financial hardFor more information, a Covid Virus business ships over the past year, please contact Tara support grant pool. Si- it was gratifying to see Vance, Norton County multaneously, Norton local, state, and federal Community Foundation County acquired Feder- funds strategically ap(tara@nortonccf.org), al Cares Act funding to plied to assist businesses Mike Posson, Norton create an additional CD- in keeping doors open, City/County Economic BG-CV pool of grantable and more importantDevelopment (mike@ dollars for business sup- ly, staff employed,” said nortoncountyks.gov), port. As a result of these Mike Posson, Executive Donna Eastman Liddle, two programs, 33 local Director of Norton City/ Norton Area Chamber businesses received a to- County Economic Deof Commerce (nortontal of $288,000. $35,000 velopment. “It was also cc@ruraltel.net), or Troy additional CDBG funds commendable to see the Blevins, Emergency were awarded to Norton Norton County ComManagement (tblevins@ County to create com- missioners place such nortoncountyks.gov).

Norton County Entities Receive $1.3 Million in COVID-Relief Funding

Over recent months, 1.3+ million dollars in COVID-19 relief funding has been awarded to Norton County businesses and organizations through three programs: the Norton Local SPARK Fund Program, the City of Norton Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for business support, and the Norton County Community Development Block Grant Program for Covid Virus (CDBG-CV) business support program.

Norton Local SPARK funds of $418,367 were awarded to the Cities of Almena, Lenora, and Norton, and to Norton County for COVID remediation supplies and services. These funds also provided pandemic preparedness funds to the County’s tax-supported agencies such as Norton County Health Department, Norton County Emergency Preparedness, Norton County Sheriff ’s Office, and City of Norton Police Department. The Norton Local SPARK Fund Program also awarded 46 grants totaling $623,959 during October and November. The program, which was designed to help strengthen and revitalize our county economy, provided funding to assist businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and childcare agencies in mitigating COVID-19 impacts, i.e. re-opening expenses, revenue loss due to required closures, and items needed to strengthen operations.

“The county’s overall strategy for SPARK fund distribution was put together by multiple stakeholders from across different agencies,” explained Tara Vance, Executive Director of Norton County Community Foundation. “Then the actual administration of the grants was overseen by three specific organizations: Norton County Community Foundation oversaw the Nonprofit and Childcare support grants; Norton Area Chamber of Commerce oversaw the Business support grants; and Norton City/County Economic Development oversaw the Healthcare grants.” The SPARK grants were distributed as follows: Direct Aid: County and City civic agencies received SPARK grants totaling $418,367 Business: 24 businesses received grants totaling $280,046 Nonprofit: 12 nonprofits received grants totaling $181,954 Healthcare: 5 healthcare businesses/organizations received grants totaling $130,309 Childcare: 2 childcare agencies received grants totaling $31,650 “The collaborative efforts that it took to distribute needed assistance to businesses, non-profits, healthcare and childcare through the Norton County SPARK Funding process was one of the most rewarding experiences in 2020 for the Chamber,” said Donna Eastman Liddle, President & CEO of Norton Area Chamber of Commerce.

JOB LISTINGS

Brought to you every week by a partnership between:

For more information about any of these jobs, to apply, or to post a job listing for your business, please visit: www.phillipscountyks.org/jobs call (785) 543-5809 or email: assistant@pcedks.org .

This service is free of charge to the residents and businesses of Phillips County. Job Title: Company: Location: Type: Other:

Parts Manager Matteson Motors Phillipsburg, KS Full-Time