U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today recognized 325 schools as&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dzIuZWQuZ292L3Byb2dyYW1zL25jbGJicnMvaW5kZXguaHRtbD91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.pd46RO8JJvrIPRYxfjQW7O5HyyHiQkTapBjdDf2LsXQ/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l" target="_blank">National Blue Ribbon Schools</a>&nbsp;for 2021, including five schools in Kansas.

The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Secretary Cardona made the announcement during his&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5lZC5nb3YvbmV3cy9wcmVzcy1yZWxlYXNlcy91cy1kZXBhcnRtZW50LWVkdWNhdGlvbi1hbm5vdW5jZXMtcmV0dXJuLXNjaG9vbC1yb2FkLXRyaXAtc3BvdGxpZ2h0LXNhZmUtcmV0dXJuLXBlcnNvbi1sZWFybmluZz91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.3pBTes0NKXe6hopw199DqqbiRf0UIktlWkQ-PRocBGg/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l" target="_blank">Return to School Road Trip</a>, while visiting an awardee school, Walter R. Sundling Jr. High School, in Palatine, Ill.

The Kansas schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were:

●El Dorado – Grandview Elementary School, El Dorado Public Schools Unified School District 490.

●Ellsworth – Ellsworth Elementary School, Ellsworth Unified School District 327.

●Hays – Roosevelt Elementary School, Hays Unified School District 489.

 ●Olathe – Mahaffie Elementary School, Olathe Unified School District 233.

●Sabetha – Sabetha Elementary School, Prairie Hills Unified School District 113.

“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said Secretary Cardona. “I commend all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, you found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have so much to offer and can serve as a model for other schools and communities so that we can truly build back better.”

The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 39th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.

The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:

●Exemplary High-Performing Schools&nbsp;are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

●Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools&nbsp;are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon Schools nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today recognized 325 schools as&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dzIuZWQuZ292L3Byb2dyYW1zL25jbGJicnMvaW5kZXguaHRtbD91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.pd46RO8JJvrIPRYxfjQW7O5HyyHiQkTapBjdDf2LsXQ/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l" target="_blank">National Blue Ribbon Schools</a>&nbsp;for 2021, including five schools in Kansas. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Secretary Cardona made the announcement during his&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjEuNDYyMzMzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5lZC5nb3YvbmV3cy9wcmVzcy1yZWxlYXNlcy91cy1kZXBhcnRtZW50LWVkdWNhdGlvbi1hbm5vdW5jZXMtcmV0dXJuLXNjaG9vbC1yb2FkLXRyaXAtc3BvdGxpZ2h0LXNhZmUtcmV0dXJuLXBlcnNvbi1sZWFybmluZz91dG1fY29udGVudD0mdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fbmFtZT0mdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fdGVybT0ifQ.3pBTes0NKXe6hopw199DqqbiRf0UIktlWkQ-PRocBGg/s/1504423233/br/112655539636-l" target="_blank">Return to School Road Trip</a>, while visiting an awardee school, Walter R. Sundling Jr. High School, in Palatine, Ill.The Kansas schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were:●El Dorado – Grandview Elementary School, El Dorado Public Schools Unified School District 490.●Ellsworth – Ellsworth Elementary School, Ellsworth Unified School District 327.●Hays – Roosevelt Elementary School, Hays Unified School District 489. ●Olathe – Mahaffie Elementary School, Olathe Unified School District 233.●Sabetha – Sabetha Elementary School, Prairie Hills Unified School District 113.“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said Secretary Cardona. “I commend all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, you found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have so much to offer and can serve as a model for other schools and communities so that we can truly build back better.”The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 39th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:●Exemplary High-Performing Schools&nbsp;are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.●Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools&nbsp;are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon Schools nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.-U.S. Department of Education-

Ellsworth Elementary among 5 Kansas schools to receive national award

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Allen, Lelando Eugene; 38; Wichita CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

NAME:&nbsp;Brathwaite, Antoine Denton; 30; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions

NAME:&nbsp;Estes, Jaron; 31; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;In transit

NAME:&nbsp;Geren, Natalie Renea; 39; Marion CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Johnson, Anne Marie; 29; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Martin, Jamal; 39; Alamogordo, New Mexico CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;In transit

NAME:&nbsp;Matthews, Rachel Lynn; 36; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Moshier, Christopher John; 43; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Toothman, Carl Gregory; 47; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction Probation Violation Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body

NAME:&nbsp;Williams, Eric James; 34;&nbsp;Schkillshben, Pennsylvania CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;In transit

NAME:&nbsp;Williams, Maurio Del Lavon; 38; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Probation Violation

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241159505.jpeg" alt="Allen, Lelando Eugene" />
 <figcaption>Allen, Lelando Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Allen, Lelando Eugene; 38; Wichita CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241426453.jpeg" alt="Brathwaite, Antoine Denton" />
 <figcaption>Brathwaite, Antoine Denton</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Brathwaite, Antoine Denton; 30; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241506536.jpeg" alt="Estes, Jaron" />
 <figcaption>Estes, Jaron</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Estes, Jaron; 31; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;In transit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241583648.jpeg" alt="Geren, Natalie Renea" />
 <figcaption>Geren, Natalie Renea</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Geren, Natalie Renea; 39; Marion CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241659207.jpeg" alt="Johnson, Anne Marie" />
 <figcaption>Johnson, Anne Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Johnson, Anne Marie; 29; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241728415.jpeg" alt="Martin, Jamal" />
 <figcaption>Martin, Jamal</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Martin, Jamal; 39; Alamogordo, New Mexico CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;In transit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241820648.jpeg" alt="Matthews, Rachel Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Matthews, Rachel Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Matthews, Rachel Lynn; 36; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241915091.jpeg" alt="Moshier, Christopher John" />
 <figcaption>Moshier, Christopher John</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Moshier, Christopher John; 43; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632241986464.jpeg" alt="Toothman, Carl Gregory" />
 <figcaption>Toothman, Carl Gregory</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Toothman, Carl Gregory; 47; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction Probation Violation Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632242098698.jpeg" alt="Williams, Eric James" />
 <figcaption>Williams, Eric James</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Williams, Eric James; 34;&nbsp;Schkillshben, Pennsylvania CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;In transit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632242185400.jpeg" alt="Williams, Maurio Del Lavon" />
 <figcaption>Williams, Maurio Del Lavon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Williams, Maurio Del Lavon; 38; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Booking Activity, Sept. 21

Congratulations to Justin Deines of Ramona, the Week 2 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest on&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deines, who scored 13 out of 16 points, wins a pair of tickets and a parking pass to the Chiefs game against the Chargers Sunday in Arrowhead Stadium.

Although the season has begun, you still have time to win!

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today to make your picks for a chance to win weekly prizes including Chiefs tickets, show tickets, and cash. If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!

To get to the registration page,&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">click here</a>&nbsp;or go to the Contests tab near the top of&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">Register today</a>&nbsp;and prove that you have what it takes to win Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630526425065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Justin Deines of Ramona, the Week 2 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest on&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Deines, who scored 13 out of 16 points, wins a pair of tickets and a parking pass to the Chiefs game against the Chargers Sunday in Arrowhead Stadium.Although the season has begun, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today to make your picks for a chance to win weekly prizes including Chiefs tickets, show tickets, and cash. If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!To get to the registration page,&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">click here</a>&nbsp;or go to the Contests tab near the top of&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">Register today</a>&nbsp;and prove that you have what it takes to win Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory!

Gridiron Glory: Congrats Justin Deines!

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Glock was stolen from a north Salina residence on Monday.

Tiera Steen, 23, of Salina, told police that she was in the process of moving into a house in the 800 block of W. Elm Street, and was away from the residence between 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday. 

When she returned to the residence at 1 p.m., she found the front door had been kicked in and her Glock Gen4 model 17 9/11 commemorative handgun had been stolen, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The gun has a U.S. Flag on the slide. The gun was valued at $800.

Damage to the door was estimated at $200.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Glock was stolen from a north Salina residence on Monday.Tiera Steen, 23, of Salina, told police that she was in the process of moving into a house in the 800 block of W. Elm Street, and was away from the residence between 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday. When she returned to the residence at 1 p.m., she found the front door had been kicked in and her Glock Gen4 model 17 9/11 commemorative handgun had been stolen, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The gun has a U.S. Flag on the slide. The gun was valued at $800.Damage to the door was estimated at $200.

9/11 commemorative Glock stolen from north Salina house

Police are investigating the theft of a pickup and trailer from a Salina construction company over the weekend.

Sometime between 5 p.m. Friday and 6:30 a.m. Monday, someone entered a fenced-in area and stole the following from Smoky Hill Construction, 1615 W. Magnolia Road, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

●A 2001 Dodge Ram pickup with a Kansas license plate of 620980

●A black dual-axle trailer with Kansas license plate of 567065

Both the pickup and the trailer had company decals on them.

It is believed that the thief attempted to steal a Ford F150 belonging to the company, however the pickup was found stuck in the mud behind the business, Forrester said. 

Additionally, an employee-owned pickup that was parked at the business had both the headlights and taillights removed and a window broken, Forrester said.

Total loss was estimated at just under $11,000, he said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating the theft of a pickup and trailer from a Salina construction company over the weekend.Sometime between 5 p.m. Friday and 6:30 a.m. Monday, someone entered a fenced-in area and stole the following from Smoky Hill Construction, 1615 W. Magnolia Road, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.●A 2001 Dodge Ram pickup with a Kansas license plate of 620980●A black dual-axle trailer with Kansas license plate of 567065Both the pickup and the trailer had company decals on them.It is believed that the thief attempted to steal a Ford F150 belonging to the company, however the pickup was found stuck in the mud behind the business, Forrester said. Additionally, an employee-owned pickup that was parked at the business had both the headlights and taillights removed and a window broken, Forrester said.Total loss was estimated at just under $11,000, he said.

Pickup, trailer stolen from Salina construction company

CLAY CENTER - Clay County Medical Center (CCMC) has been awarded a $198,116 grant through the Health Resources &amp; Services Administration as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. 

The grant is part of the Rural Health Clinic Vaccine Confidence (RHCVC) program, which provides up to $49,529 per rural health clinic location. CCMC will receive funds in support of vaccine administration at Clay Center Family Physicians, Clyde Family Physicians, Linn Family Physicians, and Riley Family Physicians.

“The additional funding will provide opportunities to reinforce vaccine information, education, and resources throughout our rural health clinics and surrounding areas. This initiative covers a broad range of efforts; including improving health care in rural areas by reinforcing basic messaging about prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases,”&nbsp;Austin M. Gillard, CEO of CCMC, said.

The RHCVC Program is an initiative to improve vaccine confidence and counter vaccine hesitancy in rural communities where COVID-19 vaccine uptake lags in comparison to more populated areas. CCMC is well positioned to disseminate information about how and where to get vaccinated at the local level, and to coordinate with existing vaccination sites to identify strategies to increase vaccine confidence.

CLAY CENTER - Clay County Medical Center (CCMC) has been awarded a $198,116 grant through the Health Resources &amp; Services Administration as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The grant is part of the Rural Health Clinic Vaccine Confidence (RHCVC) program, which provides up to $49,529 per rural health clinic location. CCMC will receive funds in support of vaccine administration at Clay Center Family Physicians, Clyde Family Physicians, Linn Family Physicians, and Riley Family Physicians.“The additional funding will provide opportunities to reinforce vaccine information, education, and resources throughout our rural health clinics and surrounding areas. This initiative covers a broad range of efforts; including improving health care in rural areas by reinforcing basic messaging about prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases,”&nbsp;Austin M. Gillard, CEO of CCMC, said.The RHCVC Program is an initiative to improve vaccine confidence and counter vaccine hesitancy in rural communities where COVID-19 vaccine uptake lags in comparison to more populated areas. CCMC is well positioned to disseminate information about how and where to get vaccinated at the local level, and to coordinate with existing vaccination sites to identify strategies to increase vaccine confidence.

Clay County Medical Center receives COVID-19 vaccine grant

The Saline County Sheriff's Office has announced the results of its recent You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign.

During the campaign Aug. 20 to Sept. 6, the sheriff's office conducted overtime saturation patrols to aggressively enforce Kansas impaired driving laws.

Deputies made 118 vehicle stops which resulted in the following, according to information from the sheriff's office.

"If you were stopped you hopefully learned from your experience," said Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. "You can count on this department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws all through the year. We will continue to do so because, while the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign may be over, we are always committed to enforcing impaired driving and other traffic laws."

The You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign was supported by a federal grant through the Kansas Department of Transportation.

The Saline County Sheriff's Office has announced the results of its recent You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign.During the campaign Aug. 20 to Sept. 6, the sheriff's office conducted overtime saturation patrols to aggressively enforce Kansas impaired driving laws.Deputies made 118 vehicle stops which resulted in the following, according to information from the sheriff's office.●Five impaired driving arrests●A safety belt citation●Twenty-six speeding citations●Ninety-seven other citations●Three non-DUI-related arrests"If you were stopped you hopefully learned from your experience," said Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. "You can count on this department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws all through the year. We will continue to do so because, while the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign may be over, we are always committed to enforcing impaired driving and other traffic laws."The You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign was supported by a federal grant through the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Saline County Sheriff's Office releases results of saturation patrols

Today is Tuesday, Sept. 21, the 264th day of 2021. There are 101 days left in the year. 

On Sept. 21, 1989, Hurricane Hugo crashed into Charleston, South Carolina (the storm was blamed for 56 deaths in the Caribbean and 29 in the United States). Twenty-one students in Alton, Texas, died when their school bus, hit by a soft-drink delivery truck, careened into a water-filled pit. 

In 1792, the French National Convention voted to abolish the monarchy. 

In 1912, magician Harry Houdini first publicly performed his "Water Torture Cell" trick at the Circus Busch in Berlin.

In 1938, a hurricane struck parts of New York and New England, causing widespread damage and claiming some 700 lives. 

In 1948, Milton Berle made his debut as permanent host of "The Texaco Star Theater" on NBC-TV. 

In 1961, the first Boeing CH-47 Chinook military helicopter made its first hovering flight.

In 1981, the Senate unanimously confirmed the nomination of Sandra Day O'Connor to become the first female justice on the Supreme Court. 

In 1982, Amin Gemayel, brother of Lebanon's assassinated president-elect, Bashir Gemayel, was himself elected president. National Football League players began a 57-day strike, their first regular-season walkout ever. 

In 1985, in North Korea and South Korea, family members who had been separated for decades were allowed to visit each other as both countries opened their borders in an unprecedented family-reunion program. 

In 1987, NFL players called a strike, mainly over the issue of free agency. (The 24-day walkout prompted football owners to hire replacement players.) 

In 1996, President Bill Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act denying federal recognition of same-sex marriages, a day after saying the law should not be used as an excuse for discrimination, violence or intimidation against gays and lesbians. (Although never formally repealed, DoMA was effectively overturned by U.S. Supreme Court decisions in 2013 and 2015.) 

In 2001, Congress again opened the federal coffers to those harmed by terrorism, providing $15 billion to the airline industry, which was suffering mounting economic losses since the Sept. 11 attacks. 

In 2008, baseball said farewell to the original Yankee Stadium as the Bronx Bombers defeated the Baltimore Orioles 7-3. 

Ten years ago: Josh Fattal and Shane Bauer, two Americans jailed in Iran as spies, left Tehran for the Gulf state of Oman, closing a high-profile drama that brought more than two years of hope and heartbreak for their families. The state of Texas executed Lawrence Russell Brewer for his role in the gruesome dragging death of James Byrd Jr. The state of Georgia executed Troy Davis, who used his last words to declare his innocence in the killing of police officer Mark MacPhail. Alternative rock group R.E.M. announced on its website that it had "decided to call it a day as a band."

Five years ago: Outraged Republican and Democratic lawmakers grilled Heather Bresch, the CEO of pharmaceutical company Mylan, about the significant cost increase of its life-saving EpiPens; defending her company's business practices, Bresch told the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee she wished the company had "better anticipated the magnitude and acceleration" of the rising prices for some families.

One year ago: President Donald Trump met at the White House with Amy Coney Barrett, as the conservative judge emerged as an early favorite for the Supreme Court seat left vacant by the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. An enormous wildfire in the mountains northeast of Los Angeles was one of more than two dozen major fires burning across California, including five of the largest wildfires in state history. The Las Vegas Raiders, playing their first game a new $2 billion stadium following their move from Oakland, defeated the New Orleans Saints 34-24; there were no fans in attendance because of the coronavirus.

Today's Birthdays: Author-comedian Fannie Flagg is 80. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer is 78. Former Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear is 77. Musician Don Felder is 74. Author Stephen King is 74. Basketball Hall of Famer Artis Gilmore is 72. Actor-comedian Bill Murray is 71. Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is 64. Movie producer-writer Ethan Coen is 64. Actor-comedian Dave Coulier is 62. Actor David James Elliott is 61. Actor Serena Scott Thomas is 60. Actor Nancy Travis is 60. Actor Rob Morrow is 59. Actor Angus Macfadyen is 58. Retired MLB All-Star Cecil Fielder is 58. Actor Cheryl Hines is 56. Country singer Faith Hill is 54. Rock musician Tyler Stewart (Barenaked Ladies) is 54. Country singer Ronna Reeves is 53. Actor-talk show host Ricki Lake is 53. Rapper Dave (De La Soul) is 53. Actor Billy Porter is 52. Actor Rob Benedict is 51. Actor James Lesure is 50. Actor Alfonso Ribeiro is 50. Actor Luke Wilson is 50. Actor Paulo Costanzo is 43. Actor Bradford Anderson is 42. Actor Autumn Reeser is 41. TV personality Nicole Richie is 40. Actor Maggie Grace is 38. Actor Joseph Mazzello is 38. Actor Ahna O'Reilly is 37. Rapper Wale is 37. R&amp;B singer Jason Derulo is 35. Actor Ryan Guzman is 34. Actor Nikolas Brino is 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Tuesday, Sept. 21, the 264th day of 2021. There are 101 days left in the year. Today's Highlights in History: On Sept. 21, 1989, Hurricane Hugo crashed into Charleston, South Carolina (the storm was blamed for 56 deaths in the Caribbean and 29 in the United States). Twenty-one students in Alton, Texas, died when their school bus, hit by a soft-drink delivery truck, careened into a water-filled pit. On this date: In 1792, the French National Convention voted to abolish the monarchy. In 1912, magician Harry Houdini first publicly performed his "Water Torture Cell" trick at the Circus Busch in Berlin.In 1938, a hurricane struck parts of New York and New England, causing widespread damage and claiming some 700 lives. In 1948, Milton Berle made his debut as permanent host of "The Texaco Star Theater" on NBC-TV. In 1961, the first Boeing CH-47 Chinook military helicopter made its first hovering flight.In 1981, the Senate unanimously confirmed the nomination of Sandra Day O'Connor to become the first female justice on the Supreme Court. In 1982, Amin Gemayel, brother of Lebanon's assassinated president-elect, Bashir Gemayel, was himself elected president. National Football League players began a 57-day strike, their first regular-season walkout ever. In 1985, in North Korea and South Korea, family members who had been separated for decades were allowed to visit each other as both countries opened their borders in an unprecedented family-reunion program. In 1987, NFL players called a strike, mainly over the issue of free agency. (The 24-day walkout prompted football owners to hire replacement players.) In 1996, President Bill Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act denying federal recognition of same-sex marriages, a day after saying the law should not be used as an excuse for discrimination, violence or intimidation against gays and lesbians. (Although never formally repealed, DoMA was effectively overturned by U.S. Supreme Court decisions in 2013 and 2015.) In 2001, Congress again opened the federal coffers to those harmed by terrorism, providing $15 billion to the airline industry, which was suffering mounting economic losses since the Sept. 11 attacks. In 2008, baseball said farewell to the original Yankee Stadium as the Bronx Bombers defeated the Baltimore Orioles 7-3. Ten years ago: Josh Fattal and Shane Bauer, two Americans jailed in Iran as spies, left Tehran for the Gulf state of Oman, closing a high-profile drama that brought more than two years of hope and heartbreak for their families. The state of Texas executed Lawrence Russell Brewer for his role in the gruesome dragging death of James Byrd Jr. The state of Georgia executed Troy Davis, who used his last words to declare his innocence in the killing of police officer Mark MacPhail. Alternative rock group R.E.M. announced on its website that it had "decided to call it a day as a band."Five years ago: Outraged Republican and Democratic lawmakers grilled Heather Bresch, the CEO of pharmaceutical company Mylan, about the significant cost increase of its life-saving EpiPens; defending her company's business practices, Bresch told the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee she wished the company had "better anticipated the magnitude and acceleration" of the rising prices for some families.One year ago: President Donald Trump met at the White House with Amy Coney Barrett, as the conservative judge emerged as an early favorite for the Supreme Court seat left vacant by the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. An enormous wildfire in the mountains northeast of Los Angeles was one of more than two dozen major fires burning across California, including five of the largest wildfires in state history. The Las Vegas Raiders, playing their first game a new $2 billion stadium following their move from Oakland, defeated the New Orleans Saints 34-24; there were no fans in attendance because of the coronavirus.Today's Birthdays: Author-comedian Fannie Flagg is 80. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer is 78. Former Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear is 77. Musician Don Felder is 74. Author Stephen King is 74. Basketball Hall of Famer Artis Gilmore is 72. Actor-comedian Bill Murray is 71. Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is 64. Movie producer-writer Ethan Coen is 64. Actor-comedian Dave Coulier is 62. Actor David James Elliott is 61. Actor Serena Scott Thomas is 60. Actor Nancy Travis is 60. Actor Rob Morrow is 59. Actor Angus Macfadyen is 58. Retired MLB All-Star Cecil Fielder is 58. Actor Cheryl Hines is 56. Country singer Faith Hill is 54. Rock musician Tyler Stewart (Barenaked Ladies) is 54. Country singer Ronna Reeves is 53. Actor-talk show host Ricki Lake is 53. Rapper Dave (De La Soul) is 53. Actor Billy Porter is 52. Actor Rob Benedict is 51. Actor James Lesure is 50. Actor Alfonso Ribeiro is 50. Actor Luke Wilson is 50. Actor Paulo Costanzo is 43. Actor Bradford Anderson is 42. Actor Autumn Reeser is 41. TV personality Nicole Richie is 40. Actor Maggie Grace is 38. Actor Joseph Mazzello is 38. Actor Ahna O'Reilly is 37. Rapper Wale is 37. R&amp;B singer Jason Derulo is 35. Actor Ryan Guzman is 34. Actor Nikolas Brino is 23.

Today in History - Sept. 21

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent obituaries

●Must have the ability to work well with a group as well as with minimal supervision

●Assist with phones, records management, and various clerical duties

●Process Donations, manage PPE inventory and distribution

●Complete special projects as assigned for various managers within the organization

●Assist with training setups and data entry

●Must have very strong computer skills, and excellent verbal and written skills

Full time position with a great benefits package! For more information or to apply –&nbsp;<a href="https://occkinc.appone.com/erp/MainInfoReq.asp?R_ID=3902186">click here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535783410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Is seeking an<h2>Administrative Support Specialist</h2>●Must have the ability to work well with a group as well as with minimal supervision●Assist with phones, records management, and various clerical duties●Process Donations, manage PPE inventory and distribution●Complete special projects as assigned for various managers within the organization●Assist with training setups and data entry●Must have very strong computer skills, and excellent verbal and written skillsFull time position with a great benefits package! For more information or to apply –&nbsp;<a href="https://occkinc.appone.com/erp/MainInfoReq.asp?R_ID=3902186">click here</a>.

Layton, Hammond latest USD 305 Teachers of the Year

In 1926, the same hurricane that had ravaged Miami on Sept. 18 ripped through Pensacola with 1-minute sustained speeds that reached around 150 mph. Sustained winds that were greater than 100 mph pounded Pensacola for four&nbsp; hours, while sustained speeds greater than 75 mph whip lashed the city for an amazing 20 hours.

In 1918, the temperature in Salina tumbled to 28 degrees. This is the earliest in the season that the city has had temperatures in the 20s.

In 1845, what's believed to have been a family of tornadoes reportedly covering a track 275 miles long extended from Lake Ontario, across upstate New York, to Lake Champlain. This family of tornadoes leveled thousands of acres of forest across Upstate New York without causing a single fatality.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICEIn 1926, the same hurricane that had ravaged Miami on Sept. 18 ripped through Pensacola with 1-minute sustained speeds that reached around 150 mph. Sustained winds that were greater than 100 mph pounded Pensacola for four&nbsp; hours, while sustained speeds greater than 75 mph whip lashed the city for an amazing 20 hours.In 1918, the temperature in Salina tumbled to 28 degrees. This is the earliest in the season that the city has had temperatures in the 20s. In 1845, what's believed to have been a family of tornadoes reportedly covering a track 275 miles long extended from Lake Ontario, across upstate New York, to Lake Champlain. This family of tornadoes leveled thousands of acres of forest across Upstate New York without causing a single fatality.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This Day in Weather History: Cold in Salina in 1918

TOPEKA – Sept. 19-25 marks Responsible Gaming Education Week. 

The Kansas Lottery, in collaboration with the American Gaming Association, dedicates this week to remind players to gamble responsibly and to educate themselves on responsible gaming practices.

For many residents of the United States, gambling remains a hidden addiction. To keep gaming fun, the American Gaming Association recommends setting a budget and sticking to it, playing socially with friends or family, knowing the odds of the game you’re playing, and only purchasing lottery legally through licensed, trusted operators.

“Unfortunately, addictive behavior continues to be an issue in many parts of our society. We like to remind Lottery players anyone can be susceptible to such behaviors and they should remain aware of their gaming habits and educate themselves on how to recognize if they have a possible issue,” said Stephen Durrell, Executive Director for the Kansas Lottery. “No one should spend more on lottery than they can afford to lose, or to think of the lottery as something other than a form of entertainment. Those who need assistance can find help at no cost, in Kansas and nationwide, if they are having issues with playing responsibly, and we encourage them to do so.”

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. Calls are free and confidential, and no-cost treatment is available to problem gamblers and other individuals concerned about problem gamblers who live in Kansas. For more information about problem gambling and available resources in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksgamblinghelp.com/" target="_blank">http://www.ksgamblinghelp.com/</a>.

TOPEKA – Sept. 19-25 marks Responsible Gaming Education Week. The Kansas Lottery, in collaboration with the American Gaming Association, dedicates this week to remind players to gamble responsibly and to educate themselves on responsible gaming practices.For many residents of the United States, gambling remains a hidden addiction. To keep gaming fun, the American Gaming Association recommends setting a budget and sticking to it, playing socially with friends or family, knowing the odds of the game you’re playing, and only purchasing lottery legally through licensed, trusted operators.“Unfortunately, addictive behavior continues to be an issue in many parts of our society. We like to remind Lottery players anyone can be susceptible to such behaviors and they should remain aware of their gaming habits and educate themselves on how to recognize if they have a possible issue,” said Stephen Durrell, Executive Director for the Kansas Lottery. “No one should spend more on lottery than they can afford to lose, or to think of the lottery as something other than a form of entertainment. Those who need assistance can find help at no cost, in Kansas and nationwide, if they are having issues with playing responsibly, and we encourage them to do so.”If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. Calls are free and confidential, and no-cost treatment is available to problem gamblers and other individuals concerned about problem gamblers who live in Kansas. For more information about problem gambling and available resources in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksgamblinghelp.com/" target="_blank">http://www.ksgamblinghelp.com/</a>.-Kansas Lottery-

Kansas Lottery recognizes Responsible Gaming Education Week

Much cooler temperatures are expected on Tuesday…some 5 to 7 degrees below normal, according to the National Weather Service. 

Highs will remain in the 70s with overnight lows expected to plunge into the 40s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632177635306.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Evening sweater weather has arrived.Much cooler temperatures are expected on Tuesday…some 5 to 7 degrees below normal, according to the National Weather Service. Highs will remain in the 70s with overnight lows expected to plunge into the 40s.

NWS: Below normal temperatures expected Tuesday

Coming off a busy summer concert schedule, the local band was named Entertainer of the Year (Group) in the Southern Rock/Country Rock category of the Josie Music Awards. The awards were presented during a two-day event Friday and Saturday in the Country Tonite Theatre in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

"This is totally cool and a great honor," said Sunset Sinners' drummer Blake Blackim. "Anytime you can be recognized, its a big deal. Is this the CMAs? No. But it is just right under the CMAs. This recognition shows that we're on the right track."

According to the organization's <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>, "the Josie Music Awards was created solely to celebrate those in the independent music industry that work so hard every day and deserve to have a night of their own."

During an interview in May when the award show nominations were revealed, Blackim told Salina Post that the nomination came about after he was interviewed a few weeks prior on The Josie Show by Josie Passantino, who also is the namesake of the awards show. The internet radio show can be heard on Thursday nights.

Blackim said Passantino encouraged the Sunset Sinners to submit its Always Time for One More Beer for award consideration. As it turned out, the song led to the Sunset Sinners being nominated for Group of the Year in the Southern Rock/Country Rock category.

Because of the rigid review process for the Josie Music Awards, just being nominated for an award is an honor. According to the Josie Music Awards <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>, "Nominee suggestions go through a lengthy review process by a team of industry leaders and the official nomination list is created from their final decisions. Winners are also selected by this industry leader team (this review team has no connection to independent artists)."

Recognition for the Sunset Sinners doesn't stop with the Josie Music Awards. A few of weeks ago, the band's debut album, a compilation of their singles, was released, and it is already garnering attention. Fireworks, a music magazine in the United Kingdom, has scheduled a glowing review of the Sunset Sinners' album in its October issue. Additionally, another U.K. music magazine, Powerplay, has scheduled a feature about the Sunset Sinners for its November issue.

Blackim said the album is available on all the major music streaming services.

Additionally, two Sunset Sinners' singles - Old Glory and Friday Night - have been seen on the Nashville Music Row Charts, Blackim said.

What's next for the Sunset Sinners? The band's patriotic-themed show, Red, White, &amp; Brews is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Kansas City based blues rock powerhouse MAHAN, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Howard Mahan, is scheduled to open the show, according to information from the Stiefel Theatre.

Tickets are $23 for general admission and can be purchased from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Stiefel Theatre walk-up window box office next to the main entrance. Additionally, you can call the Stiefel at 785-827-1998 to buy direct or buy online at stiefeltheatre.org.

Sunset Sinners will bring their Red White &amp; Brews Tour to the Stiefel Theatre as the ultimate party concert to honor military, veterans, and first responders.

"We're all about honoring active military, veterans, and first responders," Blackim told Salina Post when the concert was announced. "It's because of them that we're able to go out and play and perform! We even wrote a song called Old Glory that's recently been on the Nashville radio charts. It's dedicated to everyone that had the courage to sign up and serve."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608406725588.jpeg" alt="The Sunset Sinners, from left, Brad Johnson, Tony Bowell, Blake Blackim, and Chris Brungardt. Photo by Jeff Haines courtesy Blake Blackim" />
 <figcaption>The Sunset Sinners, from left, Brad Johnson, Tony Bowell, Blake Blackim, and Chris Brungardt. Photo by Jeff Haines courtesy Blake Blackim</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostThe Sunset Sinners are winners!Coming off a busy summer concert schedule, the local band was named Entertainer of the Year (Group) in the Southern Rock/Country Rock category of the Josie Music Awards. The awards were presented during a two-day event Friday and Saturday in the Country Tonite Theatre in Pigeon Forge, Tenn."This is totally cool and a great honor," said Sunset Sinners' drummer Blake Blackim. "Anytime you can be recognized, its a big deal. Is this the CMAs? No. But it is just right under the CMAs. This recognition shows that we're on the right track."According to the organization's <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>, "the Josie Music Awards was created solely to celebrate those in the independent music industry that work so hard every day and deserve to have a night of their own."During an interview in May when the award show nominations were revealed, Blackim told Salina Post that the nomination came about after he was interviewed a few weeks prior on The Josie Show by Josie Passantino, who also is the namesake of the awards show. The internet radio show can be heard on Thursday nights.Blackim said Passantino encouraged the Sunset Sinners to submit its Always Time for One More Beer for award consideration. As it turned out, the song led to the Sunset Sinners being nominated for Group of the Year in the Southern Rock/Country Rock category.Because of the rigid review process for the Josie Music Awards, just being nominated for an award is an honor. According to the Josie Music Awards <a href="https://www.josiemusicawards.com/">website</a>, "Nominee suggestions go through a lengthy review process by a team of industry leaders and the official nomination list is created from their final decisions. Winners are also selected by this industry leader team (this review team has no connection to independent artists)."Recognition for the Sunset Sinners doesn't stop with the Josie Music Awards. A few of weeks ago, the band's debut album, a compilation of their singles, was released, and it is already garnering attention. Fireworks, a music magazine in the United Kingdom, has scheduled a glowing review of the Sunset Sinners' album in its October issue. Additionally, another U.K. music magazine, Powerplay, has scheduled a feature about the Sunset Sinners for its November issue.Blackim said the album is available on all the major music streaming services.Additionally, two Sunset Sinners' singles - Old Glory and Friday Night - have been seen on the Nashville Music Row Charts, Blackim said.What's next for the Sunset Sinners? The band's patriotic-themed show, Red, White, &amp; Brews is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Kansas City based blues rock powerhouse MAHAN, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Howard Mahan, is scheduled to open the show, according to information from the Stiefel Theatre.Tickets are $23 for general admission and can be purchased from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Stiefel Theatre walk-up window box office next to the main entrance. Additionally, you can call the Stiefel at 785-827-1998 to buy direct or buy online at stiefeltheatre.org.Sunset Sinners will bring their Red White &amp; Brews Tour to the Stiefel Theatre as the ultimate party concert to honor military, veterans, and first responders."We're all about honoring active military, veterans, and first responders," Blackim told Salina Post when the concert was announced. "It's because of them that we're able to go out and play and perform! We even wrote a song called Old Glory that's recently been on the Nashville radio charts. It's dedicated to everyone that had the courage to sign up and serve."

Sunset Sinners receive Entertainer of the Year group award

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.

●There have been 41 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Saline County since our last update.

●Salina Regional Health Center reports that 19 people are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19.

●231 variants have been identified in the 357 samples sent from Saline County to KDHE for sequencing.

More data and additional information can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvoRJdnbg-azW59gF3H7YQm3W1AU49kuBiRsIX-HX5nECCzyTwp1Luv2sOX9Sb8Ah3AUoZgFqJ7hySWP0F6baspZRGrzTi7RYFUdEkQEPZb9O&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">Saline County Coronavirus webpage</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvr9ELkYob6KF7lgtmBXqtWxHVuuH1pKwJ4R8HDDsC15f1pm1ioy2qnHbD85jw0ZJUTSz9YBiElNnY6nJS-X2E3ximZqN0VoHO-CtALaxCcEc8msTNlJY1Jhi-6mdK2xDHIjs6EmSHBwR&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Information Site</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvr-qdinv_sDTRIHh6xmH7O7oinK_6vW2U0Jmen58PghVoicqfQ9nyljYQILP2Z8x4labPNr70nM2_ZOf6Trd8y7P1xx2F0hHcDqmFnPbbw2UuMS1b4QsQhYfCj__YsiDb7ELRRxD4ZsD&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">CDC COVID-19 Tracker</a>.

<a href="https://www.vaccinatesalinecountyks.com/testing">Click here for local COVID-19 testing options</a>

The best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 and thus prevent mutation of the virus is:

●Get tested&nbsp;if you feel unwell, even if you don’t believe it is COVID. You can find testing centers at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvvxup6_ZQmYYfIXfSHli9L9g4VEgUYOdF4YC6G2kK1CzENQCOnDTTeGAD-JyjDMJFyD_DhL5M-ZBTcjgLj265gfb4_RKcWcn7uYjQ-Chp58GfbNlGNcd8jI=&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">VaccinateSalineCountyKS.com/testing</a>&nbsp;or contact your local medical provider.

●Get vaccinated.You can find a vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvjQXhMFzlbhir6LT3UrZKTn5FtuXlIf7lEStV_CFs8wyz95G-46D6_FP8YAyoO2MeqvLgl-dxtJC_Ht-e6V_b0QLpoJna-RLRA==&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">vaccines.gov</a>&nbsp;or contact your local medical provider.

●Wear a mask, especially if you are not fully vaccinated. If you are fully vaccinated, wear a mask when in-doors in crowded spaces.

●Maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and those with whom you do not live.

●Do not travel to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvjQXhMFzlbhiqnIhsczlApkarjQR4XhSiEQ0szKoGlRDslngThQ0rs6LWDwBojtjG-4IsRU8Js1Zo4NzXIL8m7d9V-L4TlB3lg-7hbvZDqWlDJz0DP9hjChbSRX8Rl4Z6YWuaG4Qpz3MRnFQ9x54beldyQIIHZxQG7eH4CmVnCyM&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">“hot spots."</a>

●If you test positive, isolate immediately and be open and honest with COVID caseworkers about your contacts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632174148837.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.●There have been 41 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Saline County since our last update.●Salina Regional Health Center reports that 19 people are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19.●231 variants have been identified in the 357 samples sent from Saline County to KDHE for sequencing.More data and additional information can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvoRJdnbg-azW59gF3H7YQm3W1AU49kuBiRsIX-HX5nECCzyTwp1Luv2sOX9Sb8Ah3AUoZgFqJ7hySWP0F6baspZRGrzTi7RYFUdEkQEPZb9O&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">Saline County Coronavirus webpage</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvr9ELkYob6KF7lgtmBXqtWxHVuuH1pKwJ4R8HDDsC15f1pm1ioy2qnHbD85jw0ZJUTSz9YBiElNnY6nJS-X2E3ximZqN0VoHO-CtALaxCcEc8msTNlJY1Jhi-6mdK2xDHIjs6EmSHBwR&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Information Site</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvr-qdinv_sDTRIHh6xmH7O7oinK_6vW2U0Jmen58PghVoicqfQ9nyljYQILP2Z8x4labPNr70nM2_ZOf6Trd8y7P1xx2F0hHcDqmFnPbbw2UuMS1b4QsQhYfCj__YsiDb7ELRRxD4ZsD&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">CDC COVID-19 Tracker</a>.<a href="https://www.vaccinatesalinecountyks.com/testing">Click here for local COVID-19 testing options</a>The best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 and thus prevent mutation of the virus is:●Stay home&nbsp;if you are sick.●Get tested&nbsp;if you feel unwell, even if you don’t believe it is COVID. You can find testing centers at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvvxup6_ZQmYYfIXfSHli9L9g4VEgUYOdF4YC6G2kK1CzENQCOnDTTeGAD-JyjDMJFyD_DhL5M-ZBTcjgLj265gfb4_RKcWcn7uYjQ-Chp58GfbNlGNcd8jI=&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">VaccinateSalineCountyKS.com/testing</a>&nbsp;or contact your local medical provider.●Get vaccinated.You can find a vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvjQXhMFzlbhir6LT3UrZKTn5FtuXlIf7lEStV_CFs8wyz95G-46D6_FP8YAyoO2MeqvLgl-dxtJC_Ht-e6V_b0QLpoJna-RLRA==&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">vaccines.gov</a>&nbsp;or contact your local medical provider.●Wear a mask, especially if you are not fully vaccinated. If you are fully vaccinated, wear a mask when in-doors in crowded spaces.●Maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and those with whom you do not live.●Do not travel to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LA6o9pAc7aq2cqF9nOQvYl8olKlNDqmAHAOURR1IhlsaFcVke7vhvjQXhMFzlbhiqnIhsczlApkarjQR4XhSiEQ0szKoGlRDslngThQ0rs6LWDwBojtjG-4IsRU8Js1Zo4NzXIL8m7d9V-L4TlB3lg-7hbvZDqWlDJz0DP9hjChbSRX8Rl4Z6YWuaG4Qpz3MRnFQ9x54beldyQIIHZxQG7eH4CmVnCyM&amp;c=X2XaHkqQfDqUSNY0PqWDVOxEohyr5p1MLlv1zgoxGtVK1NmeB67WCQ==&amp;ch=ODLg6ooB9nozpFlFLDELS_Am2CdhiH1blEfpRqFtosap6yKgehjjMQ==" target="_blank">“hot spots."</a>●If you test positive, isolate immediately and be open and honest with COVID caseworkers about your contacts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saline County: 41 new COVID-19 cases; 6,914 of 7,789 recovered

A Salina man was arrested after a high-speed pursuit and crash in northeast Salina late Sunday afternoon.

At approximately 5:25 p.m. Sunday, an officer attempted to stop a southbound silver 2013 Chrysler 200 in the 2200 block of N. Ohio Street. Instead of stopping, the car sped off, at times reaching 75 mph, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

The car went south on N. Ohio Street, then made a move as if it was turning onto E. Pacific Avenue before continuing south on N. Ohio Street. The car turned east on E. North Street, and then attempted to turn south onto N. Eastborough Road, but crashed into the ditch, Forrester said.

The driver, identified as Antonio Lewis, 37, of Salina, exited the car and ran south on N. Eastborough Road, Forrester said. Lewis was apprehended a short distance later.

According to Forrester, police found a 9mm handgun and some narcotics in the vehicle.

Lewis was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144718228.jpeg" alt="Antonio Lewis. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Antonio Lewis. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man was arrested after a high-speed pursuit and crash in northeast Salina late Sunday afternoon.At approximately 5:25 p.m. Sunday, an officer attempted to stop a southbound silver 2013 Chrysler 200 in the 2200 block of N. Ohio Street. Instead of stopping, the car sped off, at times reaching 75 mph, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.The car went south on N. Ohio Street, then made a move as if it was turning onto E. Pacific Avenue before continuing south on N. Ohio Street. The car turned east on E. North Street, and then attempted to turn south onto N. Eastborough Road, but crashed into the ditch, Forrester said.The driver, identified as Antonio Lewis, 37, of Salina, exited the car and ran south on N. Eastborough Road, Forrester said. Lewis was apprehended a short distance later.According to Forrester, police found a 9mm handgun and some narcotics in the vehicle.Lewis was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said.●Felony flee and elude●Felony obstruction●Possession of opiate narcotics●Felon in possession of a firearm●Possession of marijuana●Possession of drug paraphernalia●Multiple traffic violations

Chase, crash lead to arrest late Sunday afternoon

More than $3,000 worth of items were stolen from a house under construction southwest of Salina.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that sometime between Sept. 13 and Sunday, someone entered a shed and an enclosed porch on the house being constructed by Carlisle Bergquist, 74, of Salina, in the 3300 block of S. Muir Road. Items stolen include the following, Soldan said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostMore than $3,000 worth of items were stolen from a house under construction southwest of Salina.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that sometime between Sept. 13 and Sunday, someone entered a shed and an enclosed porch on the house being constructed by Carlisle Bergquist, 74, of Salina, in the 3300 block of S. Muir Road. Items stolen include the following, Soldan said.An 8500 watt Craftsman generatorA Go Green push mowerA DeWalt 12-inch miter sawA small, gray Harbor Freight benchA black Craftsman generatorA 12-inch metal chop sawA Bosch hammer drillA DeWalt reciprocating sawA Makita circular sawA blue tarp

Multiple items stolen from house under construction

A local man was arrested on a requested charge of aggravated criminal threat after an incident at a south Salina bank Saturday afternoon.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were dispatched to Central National Bank in Walmart, 2900 S. Ninth Street, at approximately 3 p.m. Saturday for the report of a male subject making a threat about a shooting. 

Bank employees told police that the man entered the bank and allegedly said there would be a shooting soon. The employees locked themselves in a back room and called police.

After reviewing surveillance video, police identified the man as Aldo Steffen, 33, of Salina.

Forrester said officers located Steffan near the north entrance to Walmart and arrested him on the requested charge of aggravated criminal threat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632057340334.jpeg" alt="Aldo Steffen. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Aldo Steffen. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA local man was arrested on a requested charge of aggravated criminal threat after an incident at a south Salina bank Saturday afternoon.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were dispatched to Central National Bank in Walmart, 2900 S. Ninth Street, at approximately 3 p.m. Saturday for the report of a male subject making a threat about a shooting. Bank employees told police that the man entered the bank and allegedly said there would be a shooting soon. The employees locked themselves in a back room and called police.After reviewing surveillance video, police identified the man as Aldo Steffen, 33, of Salina.Forrester said officers located Steffan near the north entrance to Walmart and arrested him on the requested charge of aggravated criminal threat.

Man arrested after alleged threat at south Salina bank

NAME:&nbsp;Baker, Leonard Maurice; 49; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Elder, Angela Lynn; 36; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Regulations on Use of Controlled-Access Highways and Facilities

NAME:&nbsp;Foster, Todd Alfred; 37; Lawrence CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of marijuana Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body

NAME:&nbsp;Garcia-Torres, Jorge Luis; 19; Salina CHARGES REQESTED:&nbsp; Disobey traffic control device Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor Poss of marijuana Transporting an open container Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body

NAME:&nbsp;Lara, Marcus; 31; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor Operate a MV w/o a valid license Poss of hallucinogenic drug Transporting an open container

NAME:&nbsp;Lewis, Antonio Jamal; 37; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO Criminal use of weapons; Unknown circumstance Drive on left side of roadway Drive on left side of roadway Drive on left side of roadway Fail to yield at stop or yield sign Fail to yield at stop or yield sign Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving Flee or attempt to elude; Commission of any felony Improper driving on laned roadway Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Reckless Driving Reckless Driving Speeding; maximum limits Speeding; maximum limits Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body

NAME;&nbsp;Radden, Julie Dawn; 31; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Robbins, Patricia Michelle; 37; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Warren, Kamden Heath; 30; Colorado Springs, Colorado CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of marijuana Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Wyman, Madison Pearl; 18; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Agg assault; w/ intent to commit felony Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption Liquor; Purch/poss/consume 18-20 yrs; unkn conv

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144116143.jpeg" alt="Baker, Leonard Maurice" />
 <figcaption>Baker, Leonard Maurice</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Baker, Leonard Maurice; 49; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144226346.jpeg" alt="Elder, Angela Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Elder, Angela Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Elder, Angela Lynn; 36; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Failure to appear Regulations on Use of Controlled-Access Highways and Facilities<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144310375.jpeg" alt="Foster, Todd Alfred" />
 <figcaption>Foster, Todd Alfred</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Foster, Todd Alfred; 37; Lawrence CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of marijuana Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144429160.jpeg" alt="Garcia-Torres, Jorge Luis" />
 <figcaption>Garcia-Torres, Jorge Luis</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Garcia-Torres, Jorge Luis; 19; Salina CHARGES REQESTED:&nbsp; Disobey traffic control device Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor Poss of marijuana Transporting an open container Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144608719.jpeg" alt="Lara, Marcus" />
 <figcaption>Lara, Marcus</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Lara, Marcus; 31; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor Operate a MV w/o a valid license Poss of hallucinogenic drug Transporting an open container<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144718228.jpeg" alt="Lewis, Antonio Jamal" />
 <figcaption>Lewis, Antonio Jamal</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Lewis, Antonio Jamal; 37; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO Criminal use of weapons; Unknown circumstance Drive on left side of roadway Drive on left side of roadway Drive on left side of roadway Fail to yield at stop or yield sign Fail to yield at stop or yield sign Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving Flee or attempt to elude; Commission of any felony Improper driving on laned roadway Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Probation Violation Probation Violation Probation Violation Reckless Driving Reckless Driving Speeding; maximum limits Speeding; maximum limits Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144985644.jpeg" alt="Radden, Julie Dawn" />
 <figcaption>Radden, Julie Dawn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME;&nbsp;Radden, Julie Dawn; 31; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632145076495.jpeg" alt="Robbins, Patricia Michelle" />
 <figcaption>Robbins, Patricia Michelle</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Robbins, Patricia Michelle; 37; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632145149639.jpeg" alt="Warren, Kamden Heath" />
 <figcaption>Warren, Kamden Heath</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Warren, Kamden Heath; 30; Colorado Springs, Colorado CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of marijuana Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstanceNAME:&nbsp;Wyman, Madison Pearl; 18; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Agg assault; w/ intent to commit felony Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption Liquor; Purch/poss/consume 18-20 yrs; unkn conv

Saline County Jail Booking Activity, Sept. 20

I have a serious problem with vaccine skeptics who are over 70. When they were children, they saw mothers march from door-to-door, collecting dimes to fund polio research. And they witnessed the nationwide relief when first Jonas Salk developed the “killed” vaccine and then Sabin developed the “attenuated” oral vaccine administered as drops in sugar cubes.

Alongside that effort was a longstanding drive to vaccinate against smallpox. Us older folks still have that scar on our left shoulder. Thanks to vaccination, the last case in the U.S. was in 1949. Worldwide vaccination and quarantine ended smallpox in the wild in the 1970s in Somalia, Africa.&nbsp; In 1976, I witnessed the deeply pock-marked face of a smallpox survivor in the streets of Macao.&nbsp; Now, I could understand the tremendous motivation of a population that suffered smallpox—so disfiguring and fatal in one-third of the victims---usually children.

In 2019, we had also eliminated measles from the United States through requiring childhood vaccination for school attendance. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with a contagion rate of 12-to-18 (meaning that one person transmits it to up to 18 others).&nbsp; With such a high rate of transmission, nearly 95 percent of schoolchildren need to be vaccinated to halt the transmission to the few children who cannot be vaccinated due to immunity disorders. However, the anti-vax campaign on the West Coast had dropped the level of vaccinated schoolchildren to a point where measles was re-introduced from overseas and took off.

All states have vaccination requirements for schoolchildren, but different states allow a different assortment of exemptions. Obviously, the immune-compromised students need and receive a medical exemption. But some states also allowed exemption for religious or personal philosophy. A handful of states narrowed the exemption to medical only.

This right of a state and its schools to mandate vaccination was solidly established long ago in 1905, when the Supreme Court ruled in Jacobson v. Massachusetts that a state can mandate vaccines and impose criminal fines on those not in compliance. When Indiana University required COVID-19 vaccinations and students petitioned the Supreme Court, Justice Amy Coney Barrett refused to step in, rejecting the case on August 12, and citing Jacobson.

In 2019, before this pandemic, I was awarded for a radio commentary recorded on the measles anti-vaxxer dilemma. I described how “science was self-defeating.” By eliminating those early major epidemics that caused widespread pain, suffering and death, a new generation grew up free from these experiences and as a result no longer valued the benefits brought by vaccination. In other words, the success of science undermined the future motivation for vaccination.

But now, in this current pandemic, my explanation of anti-vaxxers as youngsters who grew up without major epidemic experience falls short. There is now a much larger element of politics and confirmation bias that is rejecting science, embracing falsehoods, and threatening health worldwide.

And that presents a personal problem because I try to follow my speech professor’s rule to “...remember at all times the inherent dignity of humans for that is more important than any other concern....” Those over 70 have had direct experience in the effectiveness of vaccines in eliminating polio and smallpox. And yet many are choosing instead to believe in abstract media messages that are in total contradiction to what they personally experienced in childhood. But how can I express utter contempt for those readers or listeners who put media over experience, without assaulting their dignity?

My professor continued, noting that a speaker/writer must be adequately informed because there is no right to disseminate ignorance, to think straight for there is no right to promote confusion, and to be socially responsible and bear in mind the welfare of those affected. So I will clarify. My contempt is for the dissemination of ignorance, promotion of confusion and disregard for people’s welfare.&nbsp; &nbsp;

If we had today’s media back in the 1950s, as well as the political polarization of this time, we would still today be living with folks in iron lungs, children on crutches, and one-third of smallpox victims dying each season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCKI have a serious problem with vaccine skeptics who are over 70. When they were children, they saw mothers march from door-to-door, collecting dimes to fund polio research. And they witnessed the nationwide relief when first Jonas Salk developed the “killed” vaccine and then Sabin developed the “attenuated” oral vaccine administered as drops in sugar cubes. Alongside that effort was a longstanding drive to vaccinate against smallpox. Us older folks still have that scar on our left shoulder. Thanks to vaccination, the last case in the U.S. was in 1949. Worldwide vaccination and quarantine ended smallpox in the wild in the 1970s in Somalia, Africa.&nbsp; In 1976, I witnessed the deeply pock-marked face of a smallpox survivor in the streets of Macao.&nbsp; Now, I could understand the tremendous motivation of a population that suffered smallpox—so disfiguring and fatal in one-third of the victims---usually children. In 2019, we had also eliminated measles from the United States through requiring childhood vaccination for school attendance. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with a contagion rate of 12-to-18 (meaning that one person transmits it to up to 18 others).&nbsp; With such a high rate of transmission, nearly 95 percent of schoolchildren need to be vaccinated to halt the transmission to the few children who cannot be vaccinated due to immunity disorders. However, the anti-vax campaign on the West Coast had dropped the level of vaccinated schoolchildren to a point where measles was re-introduced from overseas and took off. All states have vaccination requirements for schoolchildren, but different states allow a different assortment of exemptions. Obviously, the immune-compromised students need and receive a medical exemption. But some states also allowed exemption for religious or personal philosophy. A handful of states narrowed the exemption to medical only. This right of a state and its schools to mandate vaccination was solidly established long ago in 1905, when the Supreme Court ruled in Jacobson v. Massachusetts that a state can mandate vaccines and impose criminal fines on those not in compliance. When Indiana University required COVID-19 vaccinations and students petitioned the Supreme Court, Justice Amy Coney Barrett refused to step in, rejecting the case on August 12, and citing Jacobson. In 2019, before this pandemic, I was awarded for a radio commentary recorded on the measles anti-vaxxer dilemma. I described how “science was self-defeating.” By eliminating those early major epidemics that caused widespread pain, suffering and death, a new generation grew up free from these experiences and as a result no longer valued the benefits brought by vaccination. In other words, the success of science undermined the future motivation for vaccination. But now, in this current pandemic, my explanation of anti-vaxxers as youngsters who grew up without major epidemic experience falls short. There is now a much larger element of politics and confirmation bias that is rejecting science, embracing falsehoods, and threatening health worldwide. And that presents a personal problem because I try to follow my speech professor’s rule to “...remember at all times the inherent dignity of humans for that is more important than any other concern....” Those over 70 have had direct experience in the effectiveness of vaccines in eliminating polio and smallpox. And yet many are choosing instead to believe in abstract media messages that are in total contradiction to what they personally experienced in childhood. But how can I express utter contempt for those readers or listeners who put media over experience, without assaulting their dignity? My professor continued, noting that a speaker/writer must be adequately informed because there is no right to disseminate ignorance, to think straight for there is no right to promote confusion, and to be socially responsible and bear in mind the welfare of those affected. So I will clarify. My contempt is for the dissemination of ignorance, promotion of confusion and disregard for people’s welfare.&nbsp; &nbsp; If we had today’s media back in the 1950s, as well as the political polarization of this time, we would still today be living with folks in iron lungs, children on crutches, and one-third of smallpox victims dying each season.&nbsp;&nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

ED. FRONTLINES: Personal experience or abstract media?

UPDATE 5:30 p.m. Monday: The wind advisory has been canceled.

It appears that it will be more than a bit breezy for parts of our area today.

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a wind advisory in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today that includes the following counties in our area.

Northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph  are expected.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

UPDATE 5:30 p.m. Monday: The wind advisory has been canceled.It appears that it will be more than a bit breezy for parts of our area today.The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a wind advisory in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today that includes the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountySaline CountyNorthwest winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph are expected.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Local