Salina Area Technical College formally dedicated its Goode Learning Resources Center Monday evening, naming it for Greg and Barb Goode.

Greg Goode was Salina Tech’s first president, serving from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2016. During that time, he led the college’s transformation from a technical school that was part of the USD 305 School District to an independent college with accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Salina Tech President Greg Nichols outlined many of his predecessor’s accomplishments during his tenure, including creating and expanding several programs, and starting the college’s concurrent enrollment program, which allows high school students to earn college credit while taking college-level classes at their schools.

“I can remember when we had zero students in that program,” Goode said. This fall, 290 students are enrolled in 1,317 credit hours in classes such as College English I and General Psychology. The college now works with schools in Saline, McPherson, Dickinson, Ottawa, and Ellsworth counties with plans to offer options for Lincoln County students soon.

Nichols said his Goode was instrumental in setting the groundwork for success including the creation of the Salina Area Technical College Education Foundation. The Goodes have continued to support Salina Tech since Greg Goode’s retirement in 2016 and recently contributed $60,000 to the creation of an endowment fund which was matched by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation to raise endowments for Salina Tech.

Greg Goode recalled approaching Barb about making a contribution to the college. “She asked how much, and I named a number, and she was quiet for a minute before saying okay.”

The college’s Board of Trustees approved naming the Learning Resources Center for the Goodes this past March, but the dedication event was pushed to this fall because of COVID-19 concerns last spring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632869855577.jpeg" alt="Barb and Greg Goode stand outside the Goode Learning Resources Center Monday. Photo courtesy Salina Tech" />
 <figcaption>Barb and Greg Goode stand outside the Goode Learning Resources Center Monday. Photo courtesy Salina Tech</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Area Technical College formally dedicated its Goode Learning Resources Center Monday evening, naming it for Greg and Barb Goode.Greg Goode was Salina Tech’s first president, serving from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2016. During that time, he led the college’s transformation from a technical school that was part of the USD 305 School District to an independent college with accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.Salina Tech President Greg Nichols outlined many of his predecessor’s accomplishments during his tenure, including creating and expanding several programs, and starting the college’s concurrent enrollment program, which allows high school students to earn college credit while taking college-level classes at their schools.“I can remember when we had zero students in that program,” Goode said. This fall, 290 students are enrolled in 1,317 credit hours in classes such as College English I and General Psychology. The college now works with schools in Saline, McPherson, Dickinson, Ottawa, and Ellsworth counties with plans to offer options for Lincoln County students soon.Nichols said his Goode was instrumental in setting the groundwork for success including the creation of the Salina Area Technical College Education Foundation. The Goodes have continued to support Salina Tech since Greg Goode’s retirement in 2016 and recently contributed $60,000 to the creation of an endowment fund which was matched by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation to raise endowments for Salina Tech.Greg Goode recalled approaching Barb about making a contribution to the college. “She asked how much, and I named a number, and she was quiet for a minute before saying okay.”The college’s Board of Trustees approved naming the Learning Resources Center for the Goodes this past March, but the dedication event was pushed to this fall because of COVID-19 concerns last spring.-Salina Tech-

Salina Tech dedicates Goode Learning Resources Center

By SHERMAN SMITH Kansas Reflector

TOPEKA — Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman remembers the white knuckles of parents waiting for him to deliver “the words they never wanted to hear.”

Their teenage daughter had died in a car crash on the highway.

“What caught my attention was they were squeezing each other’s hand so tight,” he said. “… I just got the sense, like if they could squeeze each other’s hand tight enough,” he would say something else.

Hileman rarely tells this story because it is so emotionally taxing, but he agreed to talk about it for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansastransportation.blogspot.com/search/label/PBFD%202021">a new series of blog posts</a>&nbsp;to promote road safety. The Kansas Department of Transportation series began Sept. 22 and will continue through Oct. 11 as part of a nationwide campaign called Put the Breaks on Fatalities.

“The purpose of these stories is to bring attention to the importance of practicing safe driving and to understand the real-life consequences when crashes occur,” the agency said.

The series will include stories from four KHP troopers about their experience of notifying next of kin when someone dies in a car crash. Hileman is included in one of two published so far.

His story involved a crash in which a teenager driver was distracted by her phone, crossed into an oncoming lane and hit another car head-on. The driver wasn’t wearing a seat belt and was thrown through the windshield. A back seat passenger who was wearing a lap belt high over her stomach also died. The front seat passenger and two occupants of the oncoming car were properly buckled in and survived.

Hileman helped investigators collect evidence and reconstruct the accident while others redirected traffic on the busy highway. He found the driver’s ID and had to compare it to her face to confirm the match. She was the same age as his daughter, with the same color of hair and eyes.

Notifying the parents, who were waiting on the other side of town, is “the worst part of our job,” he said. He was filled with dread.

“You try to save kids’ lives,” Hileman said. “I have to relive this over and over again.”

Trooper Ben Gardner remembers standing on a porch years ago after a drunk driving death on Easter morning.

The drunk driver had crossed the center line in a pickup truck, striking another pickup and killing a man who was on his way home to his wife and children after a late-night shift. Gardner, who was awakened by a 3:30 a.m. call from dispatch, could see marks on the road where the victim had tried to steer away to avoid the collision.

At sunrise, Gardner stood on the front door with a woman who didn’t yet know she had lost her husband. Small children gathered around her, looking confused. They were expecting their father, not a trooper.

“I say what I was always say: ‘It is my sad responsibility to tell you that your husband has been killed in a crash today. He is dead.’ And then I pause,” Gardner said.

Sometimes, people will fall to the ground in these situations. Some people get angry. The woman just stood silent for a long time. The children wandered away.

He choked up. At that point, he said, “it’s about being a human being.”

“I’m the person who will cry with the person,” he said.

Sherman Smith is the Kansas Press Association’s journalist of the year. He has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature. He previously spent 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal. A lifelong Kansan, he graduated from Emporia State University in 2004 as a Shepherd Scholar with a degree in English.

The above story is republished with permission from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632849770248.jpeg" alt="A scene from a road safety awareness video produced by the Kansas Department for Transportation shows parents learning about the death of a teenager daughter. (Screen capture from KDOT video)" />
 <figcaption>A scene from a road safety awareness video produced by the Kansas Department for Transportation shows parents learning about the death of a teenager daughter. (Screen capture from KDOT video)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH Kansas ReflectorTOPEKA — Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman remembers the white knuckles of parents waiting for him to deliver “the words they never wanted to hear.”Their teenage daughter had died in a car crash on the highway.“What caught my attention was they were squeezing each other’s hand so tight,” he said. “… I just got the sense, like if they could squeeze each other’s hand tight enough,” he would say something else.Hileman rarely tells this story because it is so emotionally taxing, but he agreed to talk about it for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansastransportation.blogspot.com/search/label/PBFD%202021">a new series of blog posts</a>&nbsp;to promote road safety. The Kansas Department of Transportation series began Sept. 22 and will continue through Oct. 11 as part of a nationwide campaign called Put the Breaks on Fatalities.“The purpose of these stories is to bring attention to the importance of practicing safe driving and to understand the real-life consequences when crashes occur,” the agency said.The series will include stories from four KHP troopers about their experience of notifying next of kin when someone dies in a car crash. Hileman is included in one of two published so far.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_ujnq0G9bbA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>His story involved a crash in which a teenager driver was distracted by her phone, crossed into an oncoming lane and hit another car head-on. The driver wasn’t wearing a seat belt and was thrown through the windshield. A back seat passenger who was wearing a lap belt high over her stomach also died. The front seat passenger and two occupants of the oncoming car were properly buckled in and survived.Hileman helped investigators collect evidence and reconstruct the accident while others redirected traffic on the busy highway. He found the driver’s ID and had to compare it to her face to confirm the match. She was the same age as his daughter, with the same color of hair and eyes.Notifying the parents, who were waiting on the other side of town, is “the worst part of our job,” he said. He was filled with dread.“You try to save kids’ lives,” Hileman said. “I have to relive this over and over again.”Trooper Ben Gardner remembers standing on a porch years ago after a drunk driving death on Easter morning.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Lx3v0CvqxJs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The drunk driver had crossed the center line in a pickup truck, striking another pickup and killing a man who was on his way home to his wife and children after a late-night shift. Gardner, who was awakened by a 3:30 a.m. call from dispatch, could see marks on the road where the victim had tried to steer away to avoid the collision.At sunrise, Gardner stood on the front door with a woman who didn’t yet know she had lost her husband. Small children gathered around her, looking confused. They were expecting their father, not a trooper.“I say what I was always say: ‘It is my sad responsibility to tell you that your husband has been killed in a crash today. He is dead.’ And then I pause,” Gardner said.Sometimes, people will fall to the ground in these situations. Some people get angry. The woman just stood silent for a long time. The children wandered away.He choked up. At that point, he said, “it’s about being a human being.”“I’m the person who will cry with the person,” he said.Sherman Smith is the Kansas Press Association’s journalist of the year. He has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature. He previously spent 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal. A lifelong Kansan, he graduated from Emporia State University in 2004 as a Shepherd Scholar with a degree in English.The above story is republished with permission from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>.

🎥Troopers promote road safety with stories of notifying next of kin about deaths

Congratulations to Kimberly Mooney of Abilene, the Week 3 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest on&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deines, who scored 14 out of 16 points, wins a pair of tickets to the Collective Soul concert in the Stiefel Theatre on Friday.

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 Kimberly Mooney of Abilene, the Week 3 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest on&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Deines, who scored 14 out of 16 points, wins a pair of tickets to the Collective Soul concert in the Stiefel Theatre on Friday.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 Kimberly Mooney!

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

After a two-vehicle accident Monday, a Salina woman was cited for failing to stop at a red light.

Casey Walters, 25, of Salina, was southbound on N. Broadway Boulevard in a 2016 Subaru Legacy when she failed to stop at the red light at State Street, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The Legacy collided with a westbound 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Jody Britt, 66, of Salina. The accident occurred at approximately 8:15 a.m. Monday.

Walters was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with undisclosed injuries.

The Legacy sustained front and rear driver's side damage and the Grand Cherokee sustained front-end damage, Forrester said. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

Walters was cited for failing to stop at the stoplight, he said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostAfter a two-vehicle accident Monday, a Salina woman was cited for failing to stop at a red light.Casey Walters, 25, of Salina, was southbound on N. Broadway Boulevard in a 2016 Subaru Legacy when she failed to stop at the red light at State Street, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The Legacy collided with a westbound 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Jody Britt, 66, of Salina. The accident occurred at approximately 8:15 a.m. Monday.Walters was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with undisclosed injuries.The Legacy sustained front and rear driver's side damage and the Grand Cherokee sustained front-end damage, Forrester said. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.Walters was cited for failing to stop at the stoplight, he said.

Salina woman cited after two-vehicle accident Monday

Police are investigating two stolen vehicle cases in different parts of Salina.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that the two cars were stolen sometime between 9:30 p.m. Sunday and 7 a.m. Monday.

Timothy Crough, 64, of Salina, reported that his blue 2000 Lincoln Town Car was stolen from in front of his residence in the 100 block of N. Columbia Avenue. The car was valued at $5,000.

Abigail Hunter, 27, of Salina, reported that her red 2016 Ford Mustang was stolen from in front of her residence in the 800 block of Highland Avenue. Hunter told police that the keys were locked inside an enclosed porch.

Forrester said that at 9:15 p.m. Monday, both vehicles were located behind Russell's Restaurant, 649 Westport Boulevard, after Hunter's insurance company pinged the Mustang and reported its location. The cars were parked side by side. Forrester said police believe the thefts are connected.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating two stolen vehicle cases in different parts of Salina.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that the two cars were stolen sometime between 9:30 p.m. Sunday and 7 a.m. Monday.Timothy Crough, 64, of Salina, reported that his blue 2000 Lincoln Town Car was stolen from in front of his residence in the 100 block of N. Columbia Avenue. The car was valued at $5,000.Abigail Hunter, 27, of Salina, reported that her red 2016 Ford Mustang was stolen from in front of her residence in the 800 block of Highland Avenue. Hunter told police that the keys were locked inside an enclosed porch.Forrester said that at 9:15 p.m. Monday, both vehicles were located behind Russell's Restaurant, 649 Westport Boulevard, after Hunter's insurance company pinged the Mustang and reported its location. The cars were parked side by side. Forrester said police believe the thefts are connected.Both sets of keys remain missing.

Two stolen cars found together in another part of Salina

A slow moving storm system will bring multiple rounds of showers and storms to the area from Thursday through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service. 

A general one to two inches of rainfall is expected with locally higher amounts possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632835071661.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A slow moving storm system will bring multiple rounds of showers and storms to the area from Thursday through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service. A general one to two inches of rainfall is expected with locally higher amounts possible.

NWS: Rains on the way later this week

Clinton Strong is the new aviation department head on the&nbsp;<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>. Strong is responsible for all aspects of the aviation department, including faculty, support staff, flight, budget and academics. His main focus areas are ensuring an outstanding student environment and positioning the program for continued success. "I want to ensure this program is at the forefront of the next evolution in aviation," Strong said. "The way we fly is going to change and future aviators are going to see increased automation in the cockpit." With an aviation career spanning more than 22 years, Strong is an accomplished pilot and instructor and has held management roles at flight training centers. "I am excited to use my experience to support collegiate aviation and honored to help build the next generation of aviators," Strong said. "Mr. Strong's accomplished career is a great asset to the aviation department and we look forward to his work propelling the department into the future," said Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean. Strong received his MBA from Delta State University, a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Mountain State University and an Associate of Aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632832675267.jpeg" alt="Clinton Strong. Photo courtesy K-State Salina" />
 <figcaption>Clinton Strong. Photo courtesy K-State Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>Clinton Strong is the new aviation department head on the&nbsp;<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>. Strong is responsible for all aspects of the aviation department, including faculty, support staff, flight, budget and academics. His main focus areas are ensuring an outstanding student environment and positioning the program for continued success. "I want to ensure this program is at the forefront of the next evolution in aviation," Strong said. "The way we fly is going to change and future aviators are going to see increased automation in the cockpit." With an aviation career spanning more than 22 years, Strong is an accomplished pilot and instructor and has held management roles at flight training centers. "I am excited to use my experience to support collegiate aviation and honored to help build the next generation of aviators," Strong said. "Mr. Strong's accomplished career is a great asset to the aviation department and we look forward to his work propelling the department into the future," said Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean. Strong received his MBA from Delta State University, a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Mountain State University and an Associate of Aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.&nbsp;-K-State Salina-

K-State Salina names Clinton Strong head of aviation department

The City of Salina has announced that placement of underground fiber optic lines will continue along Ohio Street through Friday.

Eli Drilling will have crews working from the E. North Street/N. Ohio Street intersection south to the S. Ohio Street/E. Crawford Street intersection for the rest of the week.

Work will be in grass areas with minimum sidewalk closures. No road closures are expected at this time.

The fiber optic cabling and related facilities will connect existing cell towers and future 5G cell towers providing exceptional cell service and high speed networks.

The City of Salina has announced that placement of underground fiber optic lines will continue along Ohio Street through Friday.Eli Drilling will have crews working from the E. North Street/N. Ohio Street intersection south to the S. Ohio Street/E. Crawford Street intersection for the rest of the week.Work will be in grass areas with minimum sidewalk closures. No road closures are expected at this time.The fiber optic cabling and related facilities will connect existing cell towers and future 5G cell towers providing exceptional cell service and high speed networks.

Work placing underground fiber optic lines continues

Today is Tuesday, Sept. 28, the 271st day of 2021. There are 94 days left in the year. 

On Sept. 28, 1920, eight members of the Chicago White Sox were indicted for allegedly throwing the 1919 World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. (All were acquitted at trial, but all eight were banned from the game for life.) 

In 1066, William the Conqueror invaded England to claim the English throne. 

In 1781, American forces in the Revolutionary War, backed by a French fleet, began their successful siege of Yorktown, Va. 

In 1787, the Congress of the Confederation voted to send the just-completed Constitution of the United States to state legislatures for their approval. 

In 1850, flogging was abolished as a form of punishment in the U.S. Navy. 

In 1924, three U.S. Army planes landed in Seattle, having completed the first round-the-world trip by air in 175 days. 

In 1928, Scottish medical researcher Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first effective antibiotic. 

In 1939, during World War II, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed a treaty calling for the partitioning of Poland, which the two countries had invaded.

In 1962, a federal appeals court found Mississippi Gov. Ross Barnett in civil contempt for blocking the admission of James Meredith, a Black student, to the University of Mississippi. (Federal marshals escorted Meredith onto the campus two days later.) 

In 1991, jazz great Miles Davis died in Santa Monica, Calif., at age 65.

In 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO chairman Yasser Arafat signed an accord at the White House ending Israel's military occupation of West Bank cities and laying the foundation for a Palestinian state.

In 2000, capping a 12-year battle, the government approved use of the abortion pill RU-486. 

In 2019, voters in Afghanistan went to the polls to elect a president for the fourth time since a U.S.-led coalition ousted the Taliban regime in 2001; the vote was marred by violence, Taliban threats and widespread allegations of mismanagement. (After a series of delays, the country's independent election commission announced months later that Ashraf Ghani had won a second term as president.)

Ten years ago: The Obama administration formally appealed a federal appeals court ruling striking down a key provision of President Barack Obama's health care law requiring Americans to buy health insurance or pay a penalty. (The U.S. Supreme Court later upheld the individual mandate.)

Five years ago: In a resounding rebuke, Democrats joined with Republicans to hand Barack Obama the first veto override of his presidency, voting overwhelmingly to allow families of 9/11 victims to sue Saudi Arabia in U.S. courts for its alleged backing of the attackers. Israeli statesman Shimon Peres, 93, died of complications from a stroke.

One year ago: The worldwide death toll from the coronavirus pandemic topped 1 million, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. The University of Notre Dame's president, the Rev. John I. Jenkins, apologized for not wearing a mask at a White House Rose Garden ceremony for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett after pictures surfaced that showed him shaking hands and sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with people without one. Northern California's wine country was on fire, as strong winds fanned flames, destroying homes and prompting orders for nearly 70,000 people to be evacuated. Brayden Point scored his playoff-best 14th goal and the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Dallas Stars 2-0 to win the Stanley Cup and finish off a postseason that was staged nearly entirely in quarantine because of the pandemic.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Brigitte Bardot is 87. Actor Joel Higgins is 78. Singer Helen Shapiro is 75. Actor Vernee Watson is 72. Movie writer-director-actor John Sayles is 71. Rock musician George Lynch is 67. Zydeco singer-musician C.J. Chenier is 64. Actor Steve Hytner is 62. Actor-comedian Janeane Garofalo is 57. Country singer Matt King is 55. Actor Mira Sorvino is 54. TV personality/singer Moon Zappa is 54. Actor-model Carre Otis is 53. Actor Naomi Watts is 53. Country singer Karen Fairchild (Little Big Town) is 52. Singer/songwriter A.J. Croce is 50. Country singer Mandy Barnett is 46. Rapper Young Jeezy is 44. World Golf Hall of Famer Se Ri Pak is 44. Actor Peter Cambor is 43. Writer-producer-director-actor Bam Margera is 42. Actor Melissa Claire Egan is 40. Actor Jerrika Hinton is 40. Neo-soul musician Luke Mossman (Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats ) is 40. Pop-rock singer St. Vincent is 39. Comedian/actor Phoebe Robinson is 37. Rock musician Daniel Platzman (Imagine Dragons) is 35. Actor Hilary Duff is 34. Actor Keir Gilchrist is 29.

<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. 28, the 271st day of 2021. There are 94 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Sept. 28, 1920, eight members of the Chicago White Sox were indicted for allegedly throwing the 1919 World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. (All were acquitted at trial, but all eight were banned from the game for life.) On this date: In 1066, William the Conqueror invaded England to claim the English throne. In 1781, American forces in the Revolutionary War, backed by a French fleet, began their successful siege of Yorktown, Va. In 1787, the Congress of the Confederation voted to send the just-completed Constitution of the United States to state legislatures for their approval. In 1850, flogging was abolished as a form of punishment in the U.S. Navy. In 1924, three U.S. Army planes landed in Seattle, having completed the first round-the-world trip by air in 175 days. In 1928, Scottish medical researcher Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first effective antibiotic. In 1939, during World War II, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed a treaty calling for the partitioning of Poland, which the two countries had invaded.In 1962, a federal appeals court found Mississippi Gov. Ross Barnett in civil contempt for blocking the admission of James Meredith, a Black student, to the University of Mississippi. (Federal marshals escorted Meredith onto the campus two days later.) In 1991, jazz great Miles Davis died in Santa Monica, Calif., at age 65.In 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO chairman Yasser Arafat signed an accord at the White House ending Israel's military occupation of West Bank cities and laying the foundation for a Palestinian state.In 2000, capping a 12-year battle, the government approved use of the abortion pill RU-486. In 2019, voters in Afghanistan went to the polls to elect a president for the fourth time since a U.S.-led coalition ousted the Taliban regime in 2001; the vote was marred by violence, Taliban threats and widespread allegations of mismanagement. (After a series of delays, the country's independent election commission announced months later that Ashraf Ghani had won a second term as president.)Ten years ago: The Obama administration formally appealed a federal appeals court ruling striking down a key provision of President Barack Obama's health care law requiring Americans to buy health insurance or pay a penalty. (The U.S. Supreme Court later upheld the individual mandate.)Five years ago: In a resounding rebuke, Democrats joined with Republicans to hand Barack Obama the first veto override of his presidency, voting overwhelmingly to allow families of 9/11 victims to sue Saudi Arabia in U.S. courts for its alleged backing of the attackers. Israeli statesman Shimon Peres, 93, died of complications from a stroke.One year ago: The worldwide death toll from the coronavirus pandemic topped 1 million, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. The University of Notre Dame's president, the Rev. John I. Jenkins, apologized for not wearing a mask at a White House Rose Garden ceremony for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett after pictures surfaced that showed him shaking hands and sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with people without one. Northern California's wine country was on fire, as strong winds fanned flames, destroying homes and prompting orders for nearly 70,000 people to be evacuated. Brayden Point scored his playoff-best 14th goal and the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Dallas Stars 2-0 to win the Stanley Cup and finish off a postseason that was staged nearly entirely in quarantine because of the pandemic.Today's Birthdays: Actor Brigitte Bardot is 87. Actor Joel Higgins is 78. Singer Helen Shapiro is 75. Actor Vernee Watson is 72. Movie writer-director-actor John Sayles is 71. Rock musician George Lynch is 67. Zydeco singer-musician C.J. Chenier is 64. Actor Steve Hytner is 62. Actor-comedian Janeane Garofalo is 57. Country singer Matt King is 55. Actor Mira Sorvino is 54. TV personality/singer Moon Zappa is 54. Actor-model Carre Otis is 53. Actor Naomi Watts is 53. Country singer Karen Fairchild (Little Big Town) is 52. Singer/songwriter A.J. Croce is 50. Country singer Mandy Barnett is 46. Rapper Young Jeezy is 44. World Golf Hall of Famer Se Ri Pak is 44. Actor Peter Cambor is 43. Writer-producer-director-actor Bam Margera is 42. Actor Melissa Claire Egan is 40. Actor Jerrika Hinton is 40. Neo-soul musician Luke Mossman (Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats ) is 40. Pop-rock singer St. Vincent is 39. Comedian/actor Phoebe Robinson is 37. Rock musician Daniel Platzman (Imagine Dragons) is 35. Actor Hilary Duff is 34. Actor Keir Gilchrist is 29.

Today in History - Sept. 28

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Starting wages may differ on other positions

Full time positions have benefits. As well as Part Time Relief Positions available.&nbsp;

Russell Stover will hire “ON THE SPOT” on Tuesdays. Drop in for interview from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Or to apply for these online, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>

Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right off I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923. Russell Stover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Follow the hiring flags.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610422205593.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Candy Makers- Starting wage $20.65Starting wages may differ on other positions· 2nd Shift Machine Operators· 1st Packers· 2nd Packers· 2nd Shift Packers· 1st Kitchen Supervisors· 2nd Shift Service· 2nd Wrapping SupervisorFull time positions have benefits. As well as Part Time Relief Positions available.&nbsp;Russell Stover will hire “ON THE SPOT” on Tuesdays. Drop in for interview from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Or to apply for these online, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right off I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923. Russell Stover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Follow the hiring flags.

Expo center bids, American Rescue Plan Act funds on county agenda

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

●Two additional people have lost their lives to COVID-19 since our last update on Monday.

●There have been 29 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Saline County since our last update.

●Salina Regional Health Center reports that 17 people are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19.

●242 variants have been identified in the 366 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=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5u1OnrL1u5t1Vj8c_tuhv_yPdyo6tP9nygy1rArm7wO-2SY0_Lefwyc9_HRSWFbMaIW3mAZL_aVE3M7YmRgRu553WZeiQynrkw8a2RWB2UCF&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank">Saline County Coronavirus webpage</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5monxXUbnkPUc4aHezT9Bx4YlcVmZpLuCMpji0WCJQnozu7x46iHjiaDvGsuLgwtEJi4VyA9rFPim80CTHe4pooR_4PEGk7vqKVOpighsQE1kKJUhSgyNLcoS1XG12tpZdfmEg8lF_XP&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Information Site</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5vcxNO-oUATJ6K1_9kylxmf-EZTiqBU7cvS76fv_pbZUMsj_3pC3D3bY5z4mqeRqsid8q1cxIT8cKZbgwXgbfOQ4adrvB_3jyq82Av0MbZsKYN-M4TwJZOKeF0IwFVMrD_55q_CP8Lkw&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" 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=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5q3KfOnP7AI1yAyqzpe1BpAUe0w59DLKfWLXwOqMIgTMaqIBWgORRQ2wiDWzWtA9Ea8rK8kcg809Q7tQcDUjLLYNUwDZNXjuYQu5zzxvA0KqvH5q5e9hoyc=&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" 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=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5iwi30Zd768VXqkXyRMg7Fa95p8S0YWDvEg9EJK9oLcxg0O5YKjWnKy1MpHRgJFPSl2kARyv93SewZC2GLCMLsKSpfXmu_uMuA==&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" 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 distancebetween yourself and those with whom you do not live.

●Do not travel to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5iwi30Zd768Vgy0K_-qdueOB67wPkiL26gYMCDJJpXSNZoo9T_H2MyDlfSu9PQdO5WLnvyCbeiSxv-eM9BbCNlYLhnAn409xfFesP8Z70VOFl4hABnJN56bxMMiJin9mYkD_sS0HP6NXy-d8VULAQFUSXqzONiOwmkVUX9VWpL8m&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank">“hot spots."</a>

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5iwi30Zd768Vgy0K_-qdueOB67wPkiL26gYMCDJJpXSNZoo9T_H2MyDlfSu9PQdO5WLnvyCbeiSxv-eM9BbCNlYLhnAn409xfFesP8Z70VOFl4hABnJN56bxMMiJin9mYkD_sS0HP6NXy-d8VULAQFUSXqzONiOwmkVUX9VWpL8m&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank"></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/2021/9/1632778961806.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County Health Department COVID-19 update for Monday.●Two additional people have lost their lives to COVID-19 since our last update on Monday.●There have been 29 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Saline County since our last update.●Salina Regional Health Center reports that 17 people are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19.●242 variants have been identified in the 366 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=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5u1OnrL1u5t1Vj8c_tuhv_yPdyo6tP9nygy1rArm7wO-2SY0_Lefwyc9_HRSWFbMaIW3mAZL_aVE3M7YmRgRu553WZeiQynrkw8a2RWB2UCF&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank">Saline County Coronavirus webpage</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5monxXUbnkPUc4aHezT9Bx4YlcVmZpLuCMpji0WCJQnozu7x46iHjiaDvGsuLgwtEJi4VyA9rFPim80CTHe4pooR_4PEGk7vqKVOpighsQE1kKJUhSgyNLcoS1XG12tpZdfmEg8lF_XP&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Information Site</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5vcxNO-oUATJ6K1_9kylxmf-EZTiqBU7cvS76fv_pbZUMsj_3pC3D3bY5z4mqeRqsid8q1cxIT8cKZbgwXgbfOQ4adrvB_3jyq82Av0MbZsKYN-M4TwJZOKeF0IwFVMrD_55q_CP8Lkw&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" 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=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5q3KfOnP7AI1yAyqzpe1BpAUe0w59DLKfWLXwOqMIgTMaqIBWgORRQ2wiDWzWtA9Ea8rK8kcg809Q7tQcDUjLLYNUwDZNXjuYQu5zzxvA0KqvH5q5e9hoyc=&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" 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=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5iwi30Zd768VXqkXyRMg7Fa95p8S0YWDvEg9EJK9oLcxg0O5YKjWnKy1MpHRgJFPSl2kARyv93SewZC2GLCMLsKSpfXmu_uMuA==&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" 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 distancebetween yourself and those with whom you do not live.●Do not travel to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5iwi30Zd768Vgy0K_-qdueOB67wPkiL26gYMCDJJpXSNZoo9T_H2MyDlfSu9PQdO5WLnvyCbeiSxv-eM9BbCNlYLhnAn409xfFesP8Z70VOFl4hABnJN56bxMMiJin9mYkD_sS0HP6NXy-d8VULAQFUSXqzONiOwmkVUX9VWpL8m&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank">“hot spots."</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sbsQpddyN1Ljv-U1l6axRFVcs_taQepa8WktrlHwtqq0rB3A8KxO5iwi30Zd768Vgy0K_-qdueOB67wPkiL26gYMCDJJpXSNZoo9T_H2MyDlfSu9PQdO5WLnvyCbeiSxv-eM9BbCNlYLhnAn409xfFesP8Z70VOFl4hABnJN56bxMMiJin9mYkD_sS0HP6NXy-d8VULAQFUSXqzONiOwmkVUX9VWpL8m&amp;c=3kUCLd3POli3KFLZCGNeH-rRSbFBRUrFg0sfrLhRiQ32I537V77K_Q==&amp;ch=S55U2BA1c5DWQrISSFQMmXDbiYky0AfWnp1i4eUVCDNaJsY_x0utYw==" target="_blank"></a>●If you test positive, isolate immediately and be open and honest with COVID caseworkers about your contacts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saline County: 2 additional deaths, 29 new COVID-19 cases

Aryan Kevat, a Salina Central High School senior, has been named a Commended Student in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. 

A&nbsp;Letter of Commendation&nbsp;from Salina Central High School and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®), which conducts the program, was presented to him, according to information from USD 305.

Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success. They represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.

Approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2022 competition of the National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632774473140.jpeg" alt="Aryan Kevat. Photo courtesy USD 305" />
 <figcaption>Aryan Kevat. Photo courtesy USD 305</figcaption>
 </figure>Aryan Kevat, a Salina Central High School senior, has been named a Commended Student in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. A&nbsp;Letter of Commendation&nbsp;from Salina Central High School and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®), which conducts the program, was presented to him, according to information from USD 305.Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success. They represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.Approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2022 competition of the National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®).

Central senior named National Merit Commended Student

Abilene is a finalist for USA Today’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Best Historic Small Town contest for the third year in a row.

“Thank you to the tourism attractions, businesses, residents, employees, volunteers, and leaders who help make Abilene the best historic small town,” said Julie Roller Weeks, director, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau Director. “Receiving this recognition three years in a row is extra special and recognizes our efforts to market Abilene as a destination.”

In 2019, Abilene ranked No. 8 in the final standings and advanced to No. 2 in the 2020 nationwide contest.&nbsp;

Nominees for all categories are chosen by a panel of relevant experts which include a combination of editors from USA TODAY; editors from 10Best.com; relevant expert contributors; and sources for both these media and other Gannett properties. The nomination panel for each award category is displayed on its associated contest page. All voting is digital and the 10Best Readers' Choice Award contest is accessible on the 10Best.com website.

To vote, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.abilenekansas.org/votenow" target="_blank">AbileneKansas.org/votenow</a>. Online voting is underway and is scheduled to end Oct. 25 at 10:59 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Please encourage your friends, family, employees, customers, and visitors to vote daily,” Roller Weeks said. “We need your help to win.”

According to 10Best Readers’ Choice, the finalists have big histories and small populations – fewer than 35,000 people – making them fun and affordable ways to drive into our nation’s past.

The above information was provided by the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632764523896.jpeg" alt="The historic Seelye Mansion in Abilene. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>The historic Seelye Mansion in Abilene. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>Abilene is a finalist for USA Today’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Best Historic Small Town contest for the third year in a row.“Thank you to the tourism attractions, businesses, residents, employees, volunteers, and leaders who help make Abilene the best historic small town,” said Julie Roller Weeks, director, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau Director. “Receiving this recognition three years in a row is extra special and recognizes our efforts to market Abilene as a destination.”In 2019, Abilene ranked No. 8 in the final standings and advanced to No. 2 in the 2020 nationwide contest.&nbsp;Nominees for all categories are chosen by a panel of relevant experts which include a combination of editors from USA TODAY; editors from 10Best.com; relevant expert contributors; and sources for both these media and other Gannett properties. The nomination panel for each award category is displayed on its associated contest page. All voting is digital and the 10Best Readers' Choice Award contest is accessible on the 10Best.com website.To vote, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.abilenekansas.org/votenow" target="_blank">AbileneKansas.org/votenow</a>. Online voting is underway and is scheduled to end Oct. 25 at 10:59 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Please encourage your friends, family, employees, customers, and visitors to vote daily,” Roller Weeks said. “We need your help to win.”According to 10Best Readers’ Choice, the finalists have big histories and small populations – fewer than 35,000 people – making them fun and affordable ways to drive into our nation’s past.Other finalists include:●St. Augustine, Fla.●Bath, Maine●Berkeley Springs, W. Va. ●Cape May, N.J. ●Clarksdale, Miss. ●Clayton, N.Y. ●De Smet, S.D. ●Ferndale, Calif. ●Granbury, Texas●Harpers Ferry, W. Va. ●Jamestown, N.D. ●Leadville, Colo. ●Mackinac Island, Mich. ●Mineral Point, Wis. ●Natchez, Miss. ●Natchitoches, La. ●Taos, N.M. ●Valparaiso, Ind. ●Williamsburg, Va.The above information was provided by the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Abilene finalist for Best Historic Small Town; voting underway

Two vehicles were damages early Sunday in central Salina.

The vehicles, belonging to Joshua Meyer, 18, of Salina, were a 2005 Mercury Montego and a 2005 Nissan 350Z, and were parked on the street in the 1300 block of Arlington Drive, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

Both cars had dents on the driver's side. Additionally, the driver's side mirror was knocked off the Montego, Forrester said.

Surveillance video in the area shows that between 4-4:14 a.m. Sunday, a two-door vehicle was parked near the intersection of Arlington Drive and S. Deleware Avenue. Forrester said the vehicle left and then quickly returned, traveling westbound on Arlington Drive. At that point, the mirror can be seen flying off the Montego, he said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostTwo vehicles were damages early Sunday in central Salina.The vehicles, belonging to Joshua Meyer, 18, of Salina, were a 2005 Mercury Montego and a 2005 Nissan 350Z, and were parked on the street in the 1300 block of Arlington Drive, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.Both cars had dents on the driver's side. Additionally, the driver's side mirror was knocked off the Montego, Forrester said.Surveillance video in the area shows that between 4-4:14 a.m. Sunday, a two-door vehicle was parked near the intersection of Arlington Drive and S. Deleware Avenue. Forrester said the vehicle left and then quickly returned, traveling westbound on Arlington Drive. At that point, the mirror can be seen flying off the Montego, he said.Total damage was estimated at $1,100.

Police: Vehicles damaged in drive-by incident

Windows were broken and pumpkins damaged in downtown Salina Sunday afternoon.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that the following three related incidents were reported to police by witnesses shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday.

●A window was broken at McKenna Law Office, 114 S. Seventh Street. The window was valued at $500.

●A window was broken in a building at 143 S. Eighth Street that belongs to Kenneth C. Stephenson Trust. The window was valued at $500.

●Pumpkins were damaged at the Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue. Damage was estimated at $20.

Forrester said Michael Fagan, 60, was arrested in connection to the incidents. 

According to the Saline County Jail booking report, Fagan is from Wichita and was arrested on requested charges of criminal damage to property and criminal trespass.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostWindows were broken and pumpkins damaged in downtown Salina Sunday afternoon.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that the following three related incidents were reported to police by witnesses shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday.●A window was broken at McKenna Law Office, 114 S. Seventh Street. The window was valued at $500.●A window was broken in a building at 143 S. Eighth Street that belongs to Kenneth C. Stephenson Trust. The window was valued at $500.●Pumpkins were damaged at the Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue. Damage was estimated at $20.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632753705048.jpeg" alt="Michael Fagan. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Michael Fagan. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Forrester said Michael Fagan, 60, was arrested in connection to the incidents. According to the Saline County Jail booking report, Fagan is from Wichita and was arrested on requested charges of criminal damage to property and criminal trespass.

Windows broken, pumpkins damaged Sunday

Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park has been a victim to damage once again. This time, someone also stole $400 worth of Snickers.

Sometime between 8 p.m. Thursday and 7 a.m. Friday, someone broke a window that was eight feet off the ground and used a trashcan to climb through the window into the concession area at Kenwood Cove, 701 Kenwood Park Drive, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

Damage to the window was estimated at $300 and damage to the wall around the window was estimated at $500.

Once inside, the person or persons stole $400 worth of Snickers and $50 worth of ice cream, Forrester said.

Forrester said police are attempting to obtain surveillance video from the area. Cameras at Kenwood Cove indicated motion around 9 p.m. Thursday, he said.

This was the second incident in a week at Kenwood Cove. Sometime between Sept. 20 and Wednesday, someone entered Kenwood Cove and damaged six wall panels.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/870836b7-eab8-40df-9061-e59d61a30a1c">Wall panels at Kenwood Cove damaged earlier this week</a>

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostKenwood Cove Aquatic Park has been a victim to damage once again. This time, someone also stole $400 worth of Snickers.Sometime between 8 p.m. Thursday and 7 a.m. Friday, someone broke a window that was eight feet off the ground and used a trashcan to climb through the window into the concession area at Kenwood Cove, 701 Kenwood Park Drive, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.Damage to the window was estimated at $300 and damage to the wall around the window was estimated at $500.Once inside, the person or persons stole $400 worth of Snickers and $50 worth of ice cream, Forrester said.Forrester said police are attempting to obtain surveillance video from the area. Cameras at Kenwood Cove indicated motion around 9 p.m. Thursday, he said.This was the second incident in a week at Kenwood Cove. Sometime between Sept. 20 and Wednesday, someone entered Kenwood Cove and damaged six wall panels.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/870836b7-eab8-40df-9061-e59d61a30a1c">Wall panels at Kenwood Cove damaged earlier this week</a>

Kenwood Cove thief may be partial to Snickers

WICHITA – A new AAA Travel survey finds that a majority of Americans are still planning to travel between now and the end of next year, but many more of them will be insuring those trips specifically because of the pandemic.

According to the survey, more than half (55%) of American adults are planning a vacation of at least one overnight stay before the end of next year, but nearly one-third (31%) of them say they are more likely to purchase travel insurance for those trips because of COVID-19.

“The survey very much reflects what AAA travel advisors are experiencing. Travelers are still booking trips for this year,&nbsp;into next year and even into 2023 and 2024,” said Micki Dudas, director of leisure travel sales for AAA. “Travel insurance provides them with the peace of mind to do so - more valuable than ever in light of the pandemic.”

Recent AAA Travel bookings have increased 11% over 2019 levels, and interest in travel insurance has increased in turn. AAA’s travel insurance sales have increased more than double digits year-over-year, as members return to travel and see the value of protecting that investment.

The ability to cancel a trip and get a refund is by far the most frequently cited benefit of travel insurance, with 69% of travelers saying this is most important to them when considering travel insurance for an upcoming trip. AAA advises these travelers to look into travel insurance policies that include a “cancel for any reason” component, which could offer more flexibility and protection in the event a traveler needs to cancel their trip.

While travel insurance policies have historically not covered epidemics or pandemics, in response to shifting consumer expectations, some providers have started to introduce plans that cover some losses due to COVID-19 or other epidemic diseases. AAA recommends travelers consult the expertise of a knowledgeable travel advisor to help plan their trips and evaluate the various travel insurance options available.

Choosing the right policy is important, and increasingly travelers want policies that protect against common covered reasons for trip cancellations and interruptions, as well as other travel-related incidents including change fees, delays or lost/damaged luggage, to name a few.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also, it’s important to note that some international destinations may require visitors to carry travel insurance, to help cover any unexpected medical costs that may be incurred while visiting. A knowledgeable travel advisor can help travelers navigate these and other evolving travel requirements. AAA encourages all travelers to ‘<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466423&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">know before you go</a>’ – be well-versed on all travel restrictions that might be relevant to your destination and/or any stops along the way.

The AAA Travel survey also found that six in 10 Americans (60%) see the benefit of working with a travel advisor. Travelers’ top benefits of working with a travel advisor reflect the important role they play in today’s more complex travel environment, including:

●To save time when researching or planning a vacation (40%). 

●For help with complicated new travel restrictions/requirements (34%). 

“Travel insurance options vary greatly, but a knowledgeable travel advisor can help you navigate through those complexities,” continued AAA’s Dudas. “A trusted travel advisor serves as your advocate before and during your trip. Partnering with a travel advisor to review your travel insurance options offers another level of protection, so you can focus on making lifelong vacation memories.”

AAA Travel advisors are available to help members evaluate travel options and plan their vacations, when they are ready. For more information and to get started, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466422&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/Travel</a>.

Methodology The survey was conducted August 13–15, 2021, using a probability-based panel designed to be representative of the U.S. household population overall. The panel provides sample coverage of approximately 97% of the U.S. household population. Most surveys were completed online; consumers without Internet access were surveyed over the phone. A total of 1,126 interviews were completed among U.S. adults, 18 years of age or older. The margin of error for the study overall is 2.9% at the 95% confidence level. The margin of error for U.S. travelers is 3.9% at the 95% confidence level. Smaller subgroups have larger error margins.

About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 63 million members nationwide and more than 350,000 members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466421&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466420&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466419&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466418&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632709288280.png" alt="Image courtesy AAA Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy AAA Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – A new AAA Travel survey finds that a majority of Americans are still planning to travel between now and the end of next year, but many more of them will be insuring those trips specifically because of the pandemic.According to the survey, more than half (55%) of American adults are planning a vacation of at least one overnight stay before the end of next year, but nearly one-third (31%) of them say they are more likely to purchase travel insurance for those trips because of COVID-19.“The survey very much reflects what AAA travel advisors are experiencing. Travelers are still booking trips for this year,&nbsp;into next year and even into 2023 and 2024,” said Micki Dudas, director of leisure travel sales for AAA. “Travel insurance provides them with the peace of mind to do so - more valuable than ever in light of the pandemic.”Recent AAA Travel bookings have increased 11% over 2019 levels, and interest in travel insurance has increased in turn. AAA’s travel insurance sales have increased more than double digits year-over-year, as members return to travel and see the value of protecting that investment.The ability to cancel a trip and get a refund is by far the most frequently cited benefit of travel insurance, with 69% of travelers saying this is most important to them when considering travel insurance for an upcoming trip. AAA advises these travelers to look into travel insurance policies that include a “cancel for any reason” component, which could offer more flexibility and protection in the event a traveler needs to cancel their trip.While travel insurance policies have historically not covered epidemics or pandemics, in response to shifting consumer expectations, some providers have started to introduce plans that cover some losses due to COVID-19 or other epidemic diseases. AAA recommends travelers consult the expertise of a knowledgeable travel advisor to help plan their trips and evaluate the various travel insurance options available.Choosing the right policy is important, and increasingly travelers want policies that protect against common covered reasons for trip cancellations and interruptions, as well as other travel-related incidents including change fees, delays or lost/damaged luggage, to name a few.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also, it’s important to note that some international destinations may require visitors to carry travel insurance, to help cover any unexpected medical costs that may be incurred while visiting. A knowledgeable travel advisor can help travelers navigate these and other evolving travel requirements. AAA encourages all travelers to ‘<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466423&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">know before you go</a>’ – be well-versed on all travel restrictions that might be relevant to your destination and/or any stops along the way.The AAA Travel survey also found that six in 10 Americans (60%) see the benefit of working with a travel advisor. Travelers’ top benefits of working with a travel advisor reflect the important role they play in today’s more complex travel environment, including:●To save time when researching or planning a vacation (40%). ●For help with complicated new travel restrictions/requirements (34%). ●To find the best deals (33%)“Travel insurance options vary greatly, but a knowledgeable travel advisor can help you navigate through those complexities,” continued AAA’s Dudas. “A trusted travel advisor serves as your advocate before and during your trip. Partnering with a travel advisor to review your travel insurance options offers another level of protection, so you can focus on making lifelong vacation memories.”AAA Travel advisors are available to help members evaluate travel options and plan their vacations, when they are ready. For more information and to get started, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466422&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/Travel</a>.Methodology The survey was conducted August 13–15, 2021, using a probability-based panel designed to be representative of the U.S. household population overall. The panel provides sample coverage of approximately 97% of the U.S. household population. Most surveys were completed online; consumers without Internet access were surveyed over the phone. A total of 1,126 interviews were completed among U.S. adults, 18 years of age or older. The margin of error for the study overall is 2.9% at the 95% confidence level. The margin of error for U.S. travelers is 3.9% at the 95% confidence level. Smaller subgroups have larger error margins.About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 63 million members nationwide and more than 350,000 members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466421&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466420&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466419&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b77%3e7-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=466418&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.

AAA: Pandemic prompts more travelers to purchase insurance

●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>.

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