Are you a person interested in gathering customer information to analyze, provide teaching for staff, and strategically lead an organization forward with quality services?

Are you looking for a career to assist an organization to provide the highest quality services possible?

We are looking for a high-energy candidate who has the ability to understand multiple systems and regulations, and can translate that into easily understood standards to communicate.

The Quality Services Coordinator will work to develop, interpret, comply with, and evolve OCCK’s quality assurance standards. This position will also demonstrate continuous effort to track and improve the quality of services being provided to ensure services are meeting the expectations of people in our communities.

The Quality Assurance Coordinator would have the opportunity to work with multiple departments and various staff to assure the best services possible are being provided to people.

OCCK is a growing, diverse business celebrating 50 years of services in North Central Kansas.

We have a strong benefits package and competitive wages. Traveling is involved with this position.

A degree in related field is required. Come join our team.

Please send your resume to OCCK, Inc. Attention Janae Cramer, PO Box 1160, Salina, KS, 67402-1160.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535783410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Are you a person interested in gathering customer information to analyze, provide teaching for staff, and strategically lead an organization forward with quality services?Are you looking for a career to assist an organization to provide the highest quality services possible?We are looking for a high-energy candidate who has the ability to understand multiple systems and regulations, and can translate that into easily understood standards to communicate.The Quality Services Coordinator will work to develop, interpret, comply with, and evolve OCCK’s quality assurance standards. This position will also demonstrate continuous effort to track and improve the quality of services being provided to ensure services are meeting the expectations of people in our communities.The Quality Assurance Coordinator would have the opportunity to work with multiple departments and various staff to assure the best services possible are being provided to people.OCCK is a growing, diverse business celebrating 50 years of services in North Central Kansas.We have a strong benefits package and competitive wages. Traveling is involved with this position.A degree in related field is required. Come join our team.Please send your resume to OCCK, Inc. Attention Janae Cramer, PO Box 1160, Salina, KS, 67402-1160.

Waconda Lake Labor Day Weekend events raise funds, provide fun

UPDATE 4:45 p.m. Tuesday: The Stiefel Theatre has updated its COVID policies. Following is the information provided to Salina Post this afternoon.

In response to the artist's mandatory requirements that are playing the Stiefel, and a dramatic surge in COVID-19 cases, the Stiefel Theatre in Salina will begin requiring&nbsp;a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of show date and/or&nbsp;requiring proof of full vaccination&nbsp;for entry into all shows.&nbsp;

This policy will be in effect on&nbsp;Oct. 1, 2021.&nbsp;Ticketholders will be notified of these requirements via email.&nbsp;

The Stiefel Theatre hopes to offer rapid tests for sale (at their cost) from the Stiefel box office located at 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Tests will have to be taken on-site and a Stiefel staff person will provide confirmation of the results and provide a negative test verification for entry into the show (within 72 hours of the date.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

For other locations in Salina that tests are available go to:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.vaccinatesalinecountyks.com/" target="_blank">https://www.vaccinatesalinecountyks.com/</a>

Children under 18 will only be required to wear masks.

Stiefel box office hours are Monday-Friday, noon-5 p.m.

UPDATE 4:45 p.m. Tuesday: The Stiefel Theatre has updated its COVID policies. Following is the information provided to Salina Post this afternoon.In response to the artist's mandatory requirements that are playing the Stiefel, and a dramatic surge in COVID-19 cases, the Stiefel Theatre in Salina will begin requiring&nbsp;a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of show date and/or&nbsp;requiring proof of full vaccination&nbsp;for entry into all shows.&nbsp;This policy will be in effect on&nbsp;Oct. 1, 2021.&nbsp;Ticketholders will be notified of these requirements via email.&nbsp; The Stiefel Theatre hopes to offer rapid tests for sale (at their cost) from the Stiefel box office located at 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue. Tests will have to be taken on-site and a Stiefel staff person will provide confirmation of the results and provide a negative test verification for entry into the show (within 72 hours of the date.)&nbsp;&nbsp;For other locations in Salina that tests are available go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vaccinatesalinecountyks.com/" target="_blank">https://www.vaccinatesalinecountyks.com/</a>Children under 18 will only be required to wear masks.Stiefel box office hours are Monday-Friday, noon-5 p.m.

UPDATE: Stiefel Theatre updates its COVID policy

Wichita's Haymakers are scheduled to open for Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo next week, the Stiefel Theatre announced today.

The concert is scheduled for 8 p.m. Sept. 14 in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets start at $55 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 <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

About the artists from the Stiefel Theatre

Call it roots or Americana if you like, but the music made by Haymakers is the intersection of folk, bluegrass, country, blues, and more. Formed in 2012, Haymakers gradually honed their sound through steady gigs around Kansas before releasing their debut, self-titled album in 2017. 

Since then they have toured heavily around the Midwest and beyond, playing everywhere from festivals to rowdy bars to living rooms. 

Over the years they have cultivated a loyal fanbase and developed a reputation for lively performances that blend a wide variety of original and traditional songs performed in their own unique Kansas string-band style. 

Haymakers released their second full length album, “Live at Art Church” in May of 2021. 

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9d697122-fa43-4846-ba8d-9227da3581b6">Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo to perform in the Stiefel Sept. 14</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631041955012.jpeg" alt="Haymakers. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Haymakers. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita's Haymakers are scheduled to open for Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo next week, the Stiefel Theatre announced today.The concert is scheduled for 8 p.m. Sept. 14 in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets start at $55 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 <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">stiefeltheatre.org</a>.About the artists from the Stiefel TheatreCall it roots or Americana if you like, but the music made by Haymakers is the intersection of folk, bluegrass, country, blues, and more. Formed in 2012, Haymakers gradually honed their sound through steady gigs around Kansas before releasing their debut, self-titled album in 2017. Since then they have toured heavily around the Midwest and beyond, playing everywhere from festivals to rowdy bars to living rooms. Over the years they have cultivated a loyal fanbase and developed a reputation for lively performances that blend a wide variety of original and traditional songs performed in their own unique Kansas string-band style. Haymakers released their second full length album, “Live at Art Church” in May of 2021. READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9d697122-fa43-4846-ba8d-9227da3581b6">Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo to perform in the Stiefel Sept. 14</a>

Haymakers to open for Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo next week in Stiefel

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a case of alleged domestic battery have made an arrest.

On Tuesday, the the Geary County Sheriff's Office reported they were attempting to locate 35-year-old David Paul Jones.

Prior to his arrest, deputies said Jones was seen in the area of the Otter Creek Bridge on Lyons Creek Road.

Jones was wanted in Dickinson County for domestic battery, ran from local law enforcement when located in Geary County and is being held in Geary County, according online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631035020562.png" alt="Jones photo&nbsp; from an earlier arrest in Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones photo&nbsp; from an earlier arrest in Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a case of alleged domestic battery have made an arrest.On Tuesday, the the Geary County Sheriff's Office reported they were attempting to locate 35-year-old David Paul Jones.Prior to his arrest, deputies said Jones was seen in the area of the Otter Creek Bridge on Lyons Creek Road.Jones was wanted in Dickinson County for domestic battery, ran from local law enforcement when located in Geary County and is being held in Geary County, according online jail records.

Man wanted for alleged domestic battery captured

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Salina woman is out a $2,300 Moped after it was stolen while she was at work Monday evening.

Shea Mackenzie, 21, of Salina, told police that she had parked her blue 2014 Bronc Rally Moped in the parking lot of Lowe's, 3035 S. Ninth Street, while she went to work. The Moped had a Kansas license plate of 75FLD, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The incident occurred sometime between 7-11 p.m. Monday.

When Mackenzie left the store, she discovered the Moped was missing. 

The Moped only had 213 miles on it and was valued at $2,300.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina woman is out a $2,300 Moped after it was stolen while she was at work Monday evening.Shea Mackenzie, 21, of Salina, told police that she had parked her blue 2014 Bronc Rally Moped in the parking lot of Lowe's, 3035 S. Ninth Street, while she went to work. The Moped had a Kansas license plate of 75FLD, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The incident occurred sometime between 7-11 p.m. Monday.When Mackenzie left the store, she discovered the Moped was missing. The Moped only had 213 miles on it and was valued at $2,300.

Police investigating theft of Moped while owner was at work

A Salina man known to have active warrants was arrested after he was spotted outside a north Salina convenience store Monday afternoon.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that a patrol officer observed a passenger, Lukas Riley, 30, of Salina, exit a car at Petro 2, 2125 N. Ninth Street, around 3:30 a.m. Monday. The officer knew Riley to have several outstanding warrants for his arrest.

According to Forrester, the officer yelled at Riley as Riley began to walk away and Riley then began running. After a short foot pursuit, Riley gave up the chase in the parking lot of the Days Inn, 407 W. Diamond Drive.

Riley was found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine when arrested, Forrester reported.

Riley was arrested on two active Saline County District Court warrants for failure to appear and an outstanding warrant from Abilene Municipal Court for failure to appear, as well as the following requested charges, according to Forrester.

●Possession of opiate/narcotic/stimulant

●Felony interference with a law enforcement officer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630936636831.jpeg" alt="Lukas Riley. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Lukas Riley. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man known to have active warrants was arrested after he was spotted outside a north Salina convenience store Monday afternoon.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that a patrol officer observed a passenger, Lukas Riley, 30, of Salina, exit a car at Petro 2, 2125 N. Ninth Street, around 3:30 a.m. Monday. The officer knew Riley to have several outstanding warrants for his arrest.According to Forrester, the officer yelled at Riley as Riley began to walk away and Riley then began running. After a short foot pursuit, Riley gave up the chase in the parking lot of the Days Inn, 407 W. Diamond Drive.Riley was found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine when arrested, Forrester reported.Riley was arrested on two active Saline County District Court warrants for failure to appear and an outstanding warrant from Abilene Municipal Court for failure to appear, as well as the following requested charges, according to Forrester.●Possession of opiate/narcotic/stimulant●Possession of drug paraphernalia●Felony interference with a law enforcement officer

Salina man with active warrants arrested after short foot pursuit

Do you have what it takes to win Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory?

<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!

But that's not all!&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">Register</a>&nbsp;by midnight on Sept. 8 for a chance to win two lower-level Chiefs tickets and a parking pass for the season opener against the Browns in Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 12!

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>Do you have what it takes to win Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory?<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!But that's not all!&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d56f448d-e474-448c-9a47-8f7d4ce8ae6f?contestid=3#registration/login">Register</a>&nbsp;by midnight on Sept. 8 for a chance to win two lower-level Chiefs tickets and a parking pass for the season opener against the Browns in Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 12!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: Register before time runs out on Chiefs opener tickets

Police are looking for whoever stole multiple items from a fenced-in area on the south side of Tractor Supply over the weekend.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that sometime between 9 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday, someone cut off the gate lock on the south side fenced-in area of the business, which is located at 3120 Riffel Drive. 

The person or persons entered the area and took two Coleman black and gray camouflage colored mini bikes valued at $800 each and one PLCN Catch Power 9-foot fishing Kayak, tan in color valued at $1,000. The person or persons also siphoned a couple of gallons of gas from a lawn mower, according to Forrester.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for whoever stole multiple items from a fenced-in area on the south side of Tractor Supply over the weekend.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that sometime between 9 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday, someone cut off the gate lock on the south side fenced-in area of the business, which is located at 3120 Riffel Drive. The person or persons entered the area and took two Coleman black and gray camouflage colored mini bikes valued at $800 each and one PLCN Catch Power 9-foot fishing Kayak, tan in color valued at $1,000. The person or persons also siphoned a couple of gallons of gas from a lawn mower, according to Forrester.Total loss was estimated at $2,650.

Mini bikes, kayak stolen from south Salina business

BROOKVILLE - A house in Brookville was a total loss after a fire Saturday afternoon.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander reported this morning that deputies and firefighters were sent to the 100 block of W. Third in Brookville at 4:30 p.m. Saturday for the report of a structure fire. Firefighters from both Rural Fire District No. 3 and Rural Fire District No. 7 responded to the blaze.

According to Melander, the occupant of the house left a pot on the stove and also must have left the stove on. The house was a total loss, he noted.

Two cats died in the fire, Melander reported. Two dogs and a cat are missing, he added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631029249608.jpeg" alt="Fire destroyed this Brookville house Saturday. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Fire destroyed this Brookville house Saturday. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostBROOKVILLE - A house in Brookville was a total loss after a fire Saturday afternoon.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander reported this morning that deputies and firefighters were sent to the 100 block of W. Third in Brookville at 4:30 p.m. Saturday for the report of a structure fire. Firefighters from both Rural Fire District No. 3 and Rural Fire District No. 7 responded to the blaze.The house is owned by Robin Nash, 64.According to Melander, the occupant of the house left a pot on the stove and also must have left the stove on. The house was a total loss, he noted.Two cats died in the fire, Melander reported. Two dogs and a cat are missing, he added.

Fire destroys house in Brookville Saturday afternoon

A Salina woman was arrested after a vehicle she was believed to have driven was found inoperable on W. Crawford Street early Monday.

A Salina Police officer located an inoperable 2012 Chevrolet Impala in the westbound lanes of the 1200 block of W. Crawford Street at 12:30 a.m. Monday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The vehicle had extensive front end and undercarriage damage.

Through the course of the investigation, it was found that the car had struck pump No. 8 at Dillons, 1201 W. Crawford Street, causing minor damage to the car. Additionally, the pump had the fuel hose disconnected and some minor damage. The extensive damage to the Impala was caused by a separate accident, and police have yet to locate or determine what may have been struck, Forrester noted.

The driver of the vehicle was determined to be Shaelyn Jacobs, 29, of Salina. According to Forrester, the registered owner could not be contacted at the time of the accident to determine if Jacobs had permission to have the vehicle. 

Forrester reported that Jacobs was found to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested on the following requested charges.

●Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina woman was arrested after a vehicle she was believed to have driven was found inoperable on W. Crawford Street early Monday.A Salina Police officer located an inoperable 2012 Chevrolet Impala in the westbound lanes of the 1200 block of W. Crawford Street at 12:30 a.m. Monday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The vehicle had extensive front end and undercarriage damage.Through the course of the investigation, it was found that the car had struck pump No. 8 at Dillons, 1201 W. Crawford Street, causing minor damage to the car. Additionally, the pump had the fuel hose disconnected and some minor damage. The extensive damage to the Impala was caused by a separate accident, and police have yet to locate or determine what may have been struck, Forrester noted.The driver of the vehicle was determined to be Shaelyn Jacobs, 29, of Salina. According to Forrester, the registered owner could not be contacted at the time of the accident to determine if Jacobs had permission to have the vehicle. Forrester reported that Jacobs was found to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested on the following requested charges.●Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs●Driving on laned roadways

Salina woman arrested after damaged car found on W. Crawford

ELLSWORTH COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Transportation plans today to begin a&nbsp;grading project to construct storm water detention basins in Ellsworth County.

Work will be in the northeast and southeast quadrants of the Kansas Highway 14/Kansas Highway 140 intersection. Motorists are urged to stay alert to trucks entering and exiting the roadway in that area.

Cahoj Earthmoving Inc., of Atwood, is the prime contractor and has scheduled this $395,602 project to be completed in November, weather permitting.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone.&nbsp; To stay aware of all road construction projects across Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Transportation plans today to begin a&nbsp;grading project to construct storm water detention basins in Ellsworth County.Work will be in the northeast and southeast quadrants of the Kansas Highway 14/Kansas Highway 140 intersection. Motorists are urged to stay alert to trucks entering and exiting the roadway in that area.Cahoj Earthmoving Inc., of Atwood, is the prime contractor and has scheduled this $395,602 project to be completed in November, weather permitting.KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone.&nbsp; To stay aware of all road construction projects across Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

Storm water detention project begins today in Ellsworth County

Eric Shappee, professor of aviation at&nbsp;<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>, is the recipient of the 2021 Marchbanks Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence.

The annual award was established more than 30 years ago and honors faculty members with exemplary service to students, commitment in the classroom and overall excellence in teaching. Shappee has been active in aviation for more than three decades and has been teaching since 1995. His passion for aviation and teaching philosophy fosters an enjoyable, exciting environment where students thrive. "From the first moment I walked into the classroom, I felt the energy and enthusiasm of the students," Shappee said. "I believe the ability to teach is a gift and it is the key to unlocking a students' potential." Shappee began his career at K-State Salina in 2000 and has served as director of flight operations, acting department head and professional pilot program lead for aviation. He teaches numerous courses, including Introduction to Aviation, Aviation Safety, Human Factors in Aviation and Aviation Accident Investigation. "Eric consistently receives high evaluations from students, ensures their academic success and offers support when they transition into the aviation program," said Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean. "Eric's ability to always look ahead is evident, especially since he was one of the first instructors on campus to experiment with online instruction and has since created dynamic online learning tools that closely mirror the in-person learning experience." Shappee earned two associate degrees from Antelope Valley College and a bachelor's degree in aeronautical science and a master's in aeronautical science and safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His primary focus is aviation safety. He has developed several risk assessment tools for not only K-State but other aviation organizations. He is a member of the International Society of Air Safety Investigators and has attended the National Transportation Safety Board Academy.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631018661761.jpeg" alt="Eric Shappee. Photo courtesy K-State Salina" />
 <figcaption>Eric Shappee. Photo courtesy K-State Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>Eric Shappee, professor of aviation at&nbsp;<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>, is the recipient of the 2021 Marchbanks Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence. The annual award was established more than 30 years ago and honors faculty members with exemplary service to students, commitment in the classroom and overall excellence in teaching. Shappee has been active in aviation for more than three decades and has been teaching since 1995. His passion for aviation and teaching philosophy fosters an enjoyable, exciting environment where students thrive. "From the first moment I walked into the classroom, I felt the energy and enthusiasm of the students," Shappee said. "I believe the ability to teach is a gift and it is the key to unlocking a students' potential." Shappee began his career at K-State Salina in 2000 and has served as director of flight operations, acting department head and professional pilot program lead for aviation. He teaches numerous courses, including Introduction to Aviation, Aviation Safety, Human Factors in Aviation and Aviation Accident Investigation. "Eric consistently receives high evaluations from students, ensures their academic success and offers support when they transition into the aviation program," said Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean. "Eric's ability to always look ahead is evident, especially since he was one of the first instructors on campus to experiment with online instruction and has since created dynamic online learning tools that closely mirror the in-person learning experience." Shappee earned two associate degrees from Antelope Valley College and a bachelor's degree in aeronautical science and a master's in aeronautical science and safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His primary focus is aviation safety. He has developed several risk assessment tools for not only K-State but other aviation organizations. He is a member of the International Society of Air Safety Investigators and has attended the National Transportation Safety Board Academy.&nbsp; &nbsp;-K-State Salina-

K-State Salina's Eric Shappee receives Marchbanks Award

ABILENE - Employees of Memorial Health System in Abilene recently wore blue jeans at work for another Jeans Day fundraiser. 

Employees who make a donation of at least $5 are allowed to wear blue jeans on the last Friday of the month. For August, a total donation of $305 was presented to Tori Murphy, organizer of Derrik’s Ride.

Derrik’s Ride is an event to help in the fight against childhood cancer. It features a poker run, bike show, dinner, auction, and more. This year’s event, to be held in Old Abilene Town, is Sept. 18. For more information, search “Derrik’s Ride” on Facebook or call 785-280-3178. 

The Jeans Day was organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630984487205.jpeg" alt="Pictured from left are Haley Jones, EOC committee member, Tori Murphy, Derrik's Ride organizer, and Alicia Hoffman, EOC committee member. Photo courtesy Memorial Health System" />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left are Haley Jones, EOC committee member, Tori Murphy, Derrik's Ride organizer, and Alicia Hoffman, EOC committee member. Photo courtesy Memorial Health System</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE - Employees of Memorial Health System in Abilene recently wore blue jeans at work for another Jeans Day fundraiser. Employees who make a donation of at least $5 are allowed to wear blue jeans on the last Friday of the month. For August, a total donation of $305 was presented to Tori Murphy, organizer of Derrik’s Ride.Derrik’s Ride is an event to help in the fight against childhood cancer. It features a poker run, bike show, dinner, auction, and more. This year’s event, to be held in Old Abilene Town, is Sept. 18. For more information, search “Derrik’s Ride” on Facebook or call 785-280-3178. The Jeans Day was organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee.

Memorial Health System employees donate to Derrik's Ride

To make local food more affordable and encourage eating more fresh and local fruits and vegetables, the Local Food Works Foundation will be hosting a&nbsp;Double Day on Tuesday at the Harvest Farmers Market. 

This “Double Day” will mimic the Double Up Food Bucks Program, currently unavailable in Saline County. These programs allow individuals to receive double the amount from their SNAP benefits to be used only towards fruits and vegetables.

The Harvest Farmers Market invites anyone receiving SNAP benefits to participate in Double Day. SNAP participants will swipe their card, collect their SNAP tokens and their “Market Bucks,” and go shopping! 

The Harvest Farmers Market, located in the parking lot of Emmanuel Foursquare Church,1325 E. Cloud Street, is scheduled from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday.

The Harvest Farmers Market began accepting SNAP in July and has consistently seen an increase in participation. The SNAP program generates $150-$200 in sales each week.&nbsp; 

Both consumers and producers alike are excited to see this program flourish.&nbsp; Jeff Cooper, of North End Farm, welcomes the addition of SNAP to the market. 

“By accepting benefits, the market allows the users of SNAP to become aquatinted with the local producers and obtain healthy food. It also gives the Harvest Farmers Market vendors access to another segment of the consumer dollar,” Cooper said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630983748597.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To make local food more affordable and encourage eating more fresh and local fruits and vegetables, the Local Food Works Foundation will be hosting a&nbsp;Double Day on Tuesday at the Harvest Farmers Market. This “Double Day” will mimic the Double Up Food Bucks Program, currently unavailable in Saline County. These programs allow individuals to receive double the amount from their SNAP benefits to be used only towards fruits and vegetables.The Harvest Farmers Market invites anyone receiving SNAP benefits to participate in Double Day. SNAP participants will swipe their card, collect their SNAP tokens and their “Market Bucks,” and go shopping! The Harvest Farmers Market, located in the parking lot of Emmanuel Foursquare Church,1325 E. Cloud Street, is scheduled from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday.The Harvest Farmers Market began accepting SNAP in July and has consistently seen an increase in participation. The SNAP program generates $150-$200 in sales each week.&nbsp; Both consumers and producers alike are excited to see this program flourish.&nbsp; Jeff Cooper, of North End Farm, welcomes the addition of SNAP to the market. “By accepting benefits, the market allows the users of SNAP to become aquatinted with the local producers and obtain healthy food. It also gives the Harvest Farmers Market vendors access to another segment of the consumer dollar,” Cooper said.

Harvest Farmers Market offers Double Day for SNAP customers

By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H Club

In August, the Smoky View 4-H Club participated in the Tri-Rivers county fair, which began on July 31 and ended on Aug. 7.&nbsp;

The club got first place for its float, and Emma Littich became the fair queen. The club members chose Emma as their queen candidate and Karson Pihl as their king candidate. Emma won among the other queen candidates from Central Kansas District clubs.&nbsp;

The Smoky View 4-H Club also had its August club meeting on Aug. 15 in the Salemsborg Church Fellowship Hall.&nbsp;

During its September meeting, the Smoky View 4-H Club will hold officer elections. Officer elections are when members are elected by fellow club members to work in a certain office, such as parliamentarian or vice president, for the next 4-H year. The 4-H year begins Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30. 

Smoky View members will meet for elections at 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at the Salemsborg Lutheran Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630982638560.jpeg" alt="Smoky View 4-H Club members rode on the float they decorated in the Tri-Rivers Fair parade on Aug. 3. Members created wild barn quilts that showed their favorite projects to go with the fair theme Barn to be Wild. The Smoky View float won first place. Photo courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club" />
 <figcaption>Smoky View 4-H Club members rode on the float they decorated in the Tri-Rivers Fair parade on Aug. 3. Members created wild barn quilts that showed their favorite projects to go with the fair theme Barn to be Wild. The Smoky View float won first place. Photo courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club</figcaption>
 </figure>By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H ClubIn August, the Smoky View 4-H Club participated in the Tri-Rivers county fair, which began on July 31 and ended on Aug. 7.&nbsp;The club got first place for its float, and Emma Littich became the fair queen. The club members chose Emma as their queen candidate and Karson Pihl as their king candidate. Emma won among the other queen candidates from Central Kansas District clubs.&nbsp;The Smoky View 4-H Club also had its August club meeting on Aug. 15 in the Salemsborg Church Fellowship Hall.&nbsp;During its September meeting, the Smoky View 4-H Club will hold officer elections. Officer elections are when members are elected by fellow club members to work in a certain office, such as parliamentarian or vice president, for the next 4-H year. The 4-H year begins Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30. Smoky View members will meet for elections at 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at the Salemsborg Lutheran Church.

Smoky View 4-H Club members participate in Tri-Rivers Fair

Today is Tuesday, Sept. 7, the 250th day of 2021. There are 115 days left in the year. 

On Sept. 7, 1977, the Panama Canal treaties, calling for the U.S. to eventually turn over control of the waterway to Panama, were signed in Washington by President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos. 

In 1812, the Battle of Borodino took place as French troops clashed with Russian forces outside Moscow. (The battle, ultimately won by Russia, was commemorated by composer Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky with his "1812 Overture.")

In 1936, rock-and-roll legend Buddy Holly was born Charles Hardin Holley in Lubbock, Texas.

In 1940, Nazi Germany began its eight-month blitz of Britain during World War II with the first air attack on London.

In 1972, the International Olympic Committee banned Vince Matthews and Wayne Collett of the U.S. from further competition for talking to each other on the victory stand in Munich during the playing of the "Star-Spangled Banner" after winning the gold and silver medals in the 400-meter run. 

In 1986, Desmond Tutu was installed as the first Black clergyman to lead the Anglican Church in southern Africa. 

In 1996, rapper Tupac Shakur was shot and mortally wounded on the Las Vegas Strip; he died six days later. 

In 2005, police and soldiers went house to house in New Orleans to try to coax the last stubborn holdouts into leaving the city shattered by Hurricane Katrina. 

In 2007, Osama bin Laden appeared in a video for the first time in three years, telling Americans they should convert to Islam if they wanted the war in Iraq to end. 

In 2008, troubled mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were placed in government conservatorship. 

In 2015, Hillary Clinton, interviewed by The Associated Press during a campaign swing through Iowa, said she did not need to apologize for using a private email account and server while at the State Department because "what I did was allowed."

In 2017, one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded in Mexico struck off the country's southern coast, toppling hundreds of buildings and killing at least 90 people. (A deadlier quake would strike central Mexico nearly two weeks later.)

In 2019, President Donald Trump said he had canceled a secret weekend meeting at Camp David with Taliban and Afghan leaders, just days before the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, after a bombing in Kabul that killed 12 people, including an American soldier. 

Ten years ago: The latest in a series of Republican presidential debates brought together Mitt Romney, Michele Bachmann, Rick Perry, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Jon Huntsman, Ron Paul, and Rick Santorum in Simi Valley, California. A private Russian jet carrying a top ice hockey team slammed into a riverbank moments after takeoff from the airport near the western city of Yaroslavl, killing 44 people. (Investigators blamed pilot error.)

Five years ago: In back-to-back appearances, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton confronted their perceived weaknesses during a national security forum in New York, with Clinton, who went first, arguing that her email practices did not expose questionable judgment while Trump defended his preparedness to be commander in chief. President Barack Obama, during a visit to Laos, pledged to help to clear away the 80 million unexploded bombs the U.S. dropped on the Southeast Asian country decades earlier.

One year ago: Many big Labor Day gatherings were canceled across the U.S. as health authorities pleaded with people to keep their distance from others so as not to cause another surge in coronavirus cases like the one that followed Memorial Day. The mayor of Louisville, Kentucky, announced that Yvette Gentry would serve as interim police chief; she was the first Black woman to lead the department, which had been heavily criticized since officers fatally shot Breonna Taylor in March. India's increasing coronavirus caseload made the Asian giant the world's second-worst-hit country behind the United States. About 80% of the small eastern Washington farming town of Malden was leveled by flames from a fast-moving wildfire.

Today's Birthdays: Jazz musician Sonny Rollins is 91. Singer Gloria Gaynor is 78. Singer Alfa Anderson (Chic) is 75. Actor Susan Blakely is 73. Rock musician Dennis Thompson (MC5) is 73. Actor Julie Kavner is 71. Rock singer Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders) is 70. Rock musician Benmont Tench (Tom Petty &amp; the Heartbreakers) is 68. Actor Corbin Bernsen is 67. Actor Michael Emerson is 67. Pianist Michael Feinstein is 65. Singer/songwriter Diane Warren is 65. Singer Margot Chapman is 64. Actor J. Smith-Cameron is 64. Actor W. Earl Brown is 58. Actor Toby Jones is 55. Actor-comedian Leslie Jones (TV: "Saturday Night Live") is 54. Model-actor Angie Everhart is 52. Actor Diane Farr is 52. Country singer Butter (Trailer Choir) is 51. Actor Monique Gabriela Curnen is 51. Actor Tom Everett Scott is 51. Rock musician Chad Sexton (311) is 51. Actor Shannon Elizabeth is 48. Actor Oliver Hudson is 45. Actor Devon Sawa is 43. Actor JD Pardo is 42. Actor Benjamin Hollingsworth (TV: "Code Black") is 37. Actor Alyssa Diaz (TV: "Ray Donovan"; "Zoo") is 36. Singer-musician Wes Willis (Rush of Fools) is 35. Actor Evan Rachel Wood is 34. Actor Jonathan Majors is 32. Actor Ian Chen (TV: "Fresh Off the Boat") is 15.

<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. 7, the 250th day of 2021. There are 115 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Sept. 7, 1977, the Panama Canal treaties, calling for the U.S. to eventually turn over control of the waterway to Panama, were signed in Washington by President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos. On this date: In 1812, the Battle of Borodino took place as French troops clashed with Russian forces outside Moscow. (The battle, ultimately won by Russia, was commemorated by composer Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky with his "1812 Overture.")In 1936, rock-and-roll legend Buddy Holly was born Charles Hardin Holley in Lubbock, Texas.In 1940, Nazi Germany began its eight-month blitz of Britain during World War II with the first air attack on London.In 1972, the International Olympic Committee banned Vince Matthews and Wayne Collett of the U.S. from further competition for talking to each other on the victory stand in Munich during the playing of the "Star-Spangled Banner" after winning the gold and silver medals in the 400-meter run. In 1986, Desmond Tutu was installed as the first Black clergyman to lead the Anglican Church in southern Africa. In 1996, rapper Tupac Shakur was shot and mortally wounded on the Las Vegas Strip; he died six days later. In 2005, police and soldiers went house to house in New Orleans to try to coax the last stubborn holdouts into leaving the city shattered by Hurricane Katrina. In 2007, Osama bin Laden appeared in a video for the first time in three years, telling Americans they should convert to Islam if they wanted the war in Iraq to end. In 2008, troubled mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were placed in government conservatorship. In 2015, Hillary Clinton, interviewed by The Associated Press during a campaign swing through Iowa, said she did not need to apologize for using a private email account and server while at the State Department because "what I did was allowed."In 2017, one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded in Mexico struck off the country's southern coast, toppling hundreds of buildings and killing at least 90 people. (A deadlier quake would strike central Mexico nearly two weeks later.)In 2019, President Donald Trump said he had canceled a secret weekend meeting at Camp David with Taliban and Afghan leaders, just days before the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, after a bombing in Kabul that killed 12 people, including an American soldier. Ten years ago: The latest in a series of Republican presidential debates brought together Mitt Romney, Michele Bachmann, Rick Perry, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Jon Huntsman, Ron Paul, and Rick Santorum in Simi Valley, California. A private Russian jet carrying a top ice hockey team slammed into a riverbank moments after takeoff from the airport near the western city of Yaroslavl, killing 44 people. (Investigators blamed pilot error.) Five years ago: In back-to-back appearances, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton confronted their perceived weaknesses during a national security forum in New York, with Clinton, who went first, arguing that her email practices did not expose questionable judgment while Trump defended his preparedness to be commander in chief. President Barack Obama, during a visit to Laos, pledged to help to clear away the 80 million unexploded bombs the U.S. dropped on the Southeast Asian country decades earlier. One year ago: Many big Labor Day gatherings were canceled across the U.S. as health authorities pleaded with people to keep their distance from others so as not to cause another surge in coronavirus cases like the one that followed Memorial Day. The mayor of Louisville, Kentucky, announced that Yvette Gentry would serve as interim police chief; she was the first Black woman to lead the department, which had been heavily criticized since officers fatally shot Breonna Taylor in March. India's increasing coronavirus caseload made the Asian giant the world's second-worst-hit country behind the United States. About 80% of the small eastern Washington farming town of Malden was leveled by flames from a fast-moving wildfire. Today's Birthdays: Jazz musician Sonny Rollins is 91. Singer Gloria Gaynor is 78. Singer Alfa Anderson (Chic) is 75. Actor Susan Blakely is 73. Rock musician Dennis Thompson (MC5) is 73. Actor Julie Kavner is 71. Rock singer Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders) is 70. Rock musician Benmont Tench (Tom Petty &amp; the Heartbreakers) is 68. Actor Corbin Bernsen is 67. Actor Michael Emerson is 67. Pianist Michael Feinstein is 65. Singer/songwriter Diane Warren is 65. Singer Margot Chapman is 64. Actor J. Smith-Cameron is 64. Actor W. Earl Brown is 58. Actor Toby Jones is 55. Actor-comedian Leslie Jones (TV: "Saturday Night Live") is 54. Model-actor Angie Everhart is 52. Actor Diane Farr is 52. Country singer Butter (Trailer Choir) is 51. Actor Monique Gabriela Curnen is 51. Actor Tom Everett Scott is 51. Rock musician Chad Sexton (311) is 51. Actor Shannon Elizabeth is 48. Actor Oliver Hudson is 45. Actor Devon Sawa is 43. Actor JD Pardo is 42. Actor Benjamin Hollingsworth (TV: "Code Black") is 37. Actor Alyssa Diaz (TV: "Ray Donovan"; "Zoo") is 36. Singer-musician Wes Willis (Rush of Fools) is 35. Actor Evan Rachel Wood is 34. Actor Jonathan Majors is 32. Actor Ian Chen (TV: "Fresh Off the Boat") is 15.

Today in History - Sept. 7

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Recent obituaries

Candy Makers- Starting wage $20.65

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 of I-70 at exit 270 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 of I-70 at exit 270 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.

NWS: August in Salina was slightly warmer, wetter than normal

Attaching properties to Rural Water District No. 4 and an emergency operations plan are among the items on the Saline County Commission agenda for Tuesday.

Saline County Commission is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street. The meetings also can be viewed on Saline County’s YouTube channel:

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA</a>.

To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link. Use the following link and put in the Meeting ID and passcode:

<a href="https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09">https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09</a>

For further information, contact the County Commission’s Office at (785) 309-5825.

Commissioners are scheduled to to conduct a public hearing before deciding whether to attach additional properties to Rural Water District No. 4. In two instances, no record could be found that property already being serviced by Rural Water District No. 4 had officially been attached to the district. In another instance, landowners are requesting that their property be attached to the district.

Commissioners also are scheduled to consider adopting the Saline County Local Emergency Operations Plan, which is up for renewal this year. The plan already has been reviewed and approved by the Kansas Division of Emergency Management. Once adopted by the county, the plan would be valid until 2026, but could be updated as necessary.

Other items on the county commission agenda include the following.

●Consider Nationwide Deferred Comp Additional Investment Option – Marilyn Leamer, human resources director

●Consider accepting an Assistant to Firefighters Grant – David Turner, Rural Fire District No. 5 chief

●Consider a resolution for the redeclaration of State of Local Public Health Emergency for Saline County – Michelle Barkley, emergency management director

●Consider a bid award for Electrical Engineering Consultant Services for the livestock and expo center – Hannah Stambaugh, deputy county administrator

●Consider appointing Kansas Associations of Counties Delegates – County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes

●Hear a Road and Bridge Department update – Darren Fishel, administrator

To see the full Saline County Commission meeting packet (34-page pdf), <a href="https://www.saline.org/Portals/0/Content/Commissioners/Documents/Agenda/Current/20210907.pdf?ver=o4hYvWNryhC5v6ygqoEGGw%3d%3d">click here</a>.

By SALINA POSTAttaching properties to Rural Water District No. 4 and an emergency operations plan are among the items on the Saline County Commission agenda for Tuesday.About the meetingSaline County Commission is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street. The meetings also can be viewed on Saline County’s YouTube channel:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwZp_cTSJ3Nepp_5rOGevA</a>.To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link. Use the following link and put in the Meeting ID and passcode:<a href="https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09">https://zoom.us/j/96835819901?pwd=bUEvaExUb2ppMEFaUnd6cUd6MmNMUT09</a>Meeting ID: 968 3581 9901Passcode: 144636For further information, contact the County Commission’s Office at (785) 309-5825.Agenda itemsCommissioners are scheduled to to conduct a public hearing before deciding whether to attach additional properties to Rural Water District No. 4. In two instances, no record could be found that property already being serviced by Rural Water District No. 4 had officially been attached to the district. In another instance, landowners are requesting that their property be attached to the district.Commissioners also are scheduled to consider adopting the Saline County Local Emergency Operations Plan, which is up for renewal this year. The plan already has been reviewed and approved by the Kansas Division of Emergency Management. Once adopted by the county, the plan would be valid until 2026, but could be updated as necessary.Other items on the county commission agenda include the following.●Consider Nationwide Deferred Comp Additional Investment Option – Marilyn Leamer, human resources director●Consider accepting an Assistant to Firefighters Grant – David Turner, Rural Fire District No. 5 chief●Consider a resolution for the redeclaration of State of Local Public Health Emergency for Saline County – Michelle Barkley, emergency management director●Consider a bid award for Electrical Engineering Consultant Services for the livestock and expo center – Hannah Stambaugh, deputy county administrator●Consider appointing Kansas Associations of Counties Delegates – County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes●Hear a Road and Bridge Department update – Darren Fishel, administrator●Hear Smith-Hanes’ weekly updateTo see the full Saline County Commission meeting packet (34-page pdf), <a href="https://www.saline.org/Portals/0/Content/Commissioners/Documents/Agenda/Current/20210907.pdf?ver=o4hYvWNryhC5v6ygqoEGGw%3d%3d">click here</a>.

Water district, emergency plan among county agenda items

Legislator navigates personal journey from hesitancy to acceptance of COVID vaccine

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/03/rep-howe-navigates-personal-journey-from-hesitancy-to-acceptance-of-covid-19-vaccine/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Salina Rep. Steven Howe was among Republican conservatives in the Kansas House skeptical about COVID-19 vaccines.

The virus’ attack on people he knew, including some who died, a 
comprehensive review of vaccine information, and encouragement of 
trusted friends and family convinced him to accept Pfizer’s vaccine in 
August. Rather than keeping his vaccination status private, he’s taken 
an additional step by publicly encouraging others to get the shots.

He said the decision was not to be taken lightly. He believes firmly 
in individual rights and responsibilities, but his embrace of the 
vaccine was part of keeping his family and community safe from a virus 
factoring in the death of nearly 5,600 Kansans.

“Honestly, like many, I struggled to navigate the tremendous amount 
of information and misinformation that is out there,” Howe said. “I 
wanted to do my best to make an informed decision. But ultimately, it 
finally came down to trust, and whether or not I was willing to trust 
those with the education, training and expertise regarding this 
vaccine.”

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 47.7% of
 eligible residents in Saline County were fully vaccinated. Overall, the
 CDC said, 57.6% of eligible Kansans have been fully vaccinated.

Howe said rising demand for hospital beds, including facilities such 
as the Salina Regional Health Center, was influential in his decision to
 receive the vaccine.

“I believe it is time to start trusting our institutions again, while
 also respecting the freedom of individuals to make health care 
decisions they’re comfortable with,” Howe said. “If you haven’t received
 your vaccine yet, please consider doing so.”

On Thursday, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican seeking 
re-election, stood with Washburn University president Jerry Farley in a 
campus building to take questions from reporters. Moran said impetus of 
the visit was to learn more about how the pandemic was influencing 
higher education, especially in terms of federal funding that flowed to 
colleges and universities.

Both men pivoted to the issue of COVID-19 vaccination of Kansans, and
 their desire for more people to accept this preventative measure.

“It’s impossible for the federal government to continue to just 
provide money to all the places that are damaged by COVID,” Moran said. 
“I’d use this opportunity to encourage students and faculty at Washburn,
 and the people of Kansas, to be vaccinated. We don’t have the resources
 just to continue trying to pay for the consequences of our health 
risks.”

Farley said the motto of Washburn University was “non nobis solum,” 
which could be translated to “not for ourselves alone.” The Latin text 
is cast in bronze outside Morgan Hall where he was standing. The 
pandemic and debate about vaccines places into context the value of 
contributing to the greater good of society apart from self interests, 
he said.

He said the available vaccines for COVID-19 were safe and capable of 
saving lives. And, he said, it was important for people in prominent 
positions of leadership to talk about benefits of vaccination.

“I know there’s a lot of myths out there,” Farley said. “There’s a 
lot of things that are questionable, that are being bandied about on 
social media. But our students understand what it means to think 
critically.”

Moran said he wasn’t in favor of mandating COVID-19 vaccinations, 
because the decision must remain with the individual. He said acceptable
 exceptions include directives by private businesses in terms of 
employees. Several large hospitals in the Kansas City area, including 
the University of Kansas Hospital System, are requiring staff to be 
vaccinated.

“I would just encourage them to think it’s not just about themselves,
 but it’s also about people they know in their families, their neighbors
 and their community,” Moran said. “We continue to promote good science 
and medicine, but people need to make that determination.”

Howe said a small portion of reaction to his support of COVID-19 
vaccination had been negative. He said conservatives in health care 
professions shared appreciation for his public stand.

“I would say probably 95% of reaction I’ve received has been positive,” he said.

The question of how to deal with the pandemic in Kansas became a 
partisan issue as many Republicans worked against executive orders and 
other directives tied to COVID-19. Democrats largely accepted work by 
Gov. Laura Kelly to take sweeping action in 2020 by shifting K-12 and 
college instruction to online formats, requiring wearing of face 
coverings in public as well as designating certain occupations 
nonessential so some workers remained off the job.

Kelly, who has conducted a campaign to convince people to be tested 
and vaccinated, also sustained federal aid to the unemployed after state
 and federal GOP lawmakers insisted she cut off benefits. She hasn’t 
expressed interest in vaccination mandates, but recently ordered 
executive branch employees to work from home if possible as the delta 
variant of COVID-19 surged across the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630694346403.png" alt="State Rep. Steven Howe, a conservative Republican from Salina, says he agonized over the science of vaccines before accepting a shot for COVID-19 and public urging others to do likewise. (Submitted)" />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Steven Howe, a conservative Republican from Salina, says he agonized over the science of vaccines before accepting a shot for COVID-19 and public urging others to do likewise. (Submitted)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Legislator navigates personal journey from hesitancy to acceptance of COVID vaccine</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/03/rep-howe-navigates-personal-journey-from-hesitancy-to-acceptance-of-covid-19-vaccine/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Salina Rep. Steven Howe was among Republican conservatives in the Kansas House skeptical about COVID-19 vaccines.The virus’ attack on people he knew, including some who died, a 
comprehensive review of vaccine information, and encouragement of 
trusted friends and family convinced him to accept Pfizer’s vaccine in 
August. Rather than keeping his vaccination status private, he’s taken 
an additional step by publicly encouraging others to get the shots.He said the decision was not to be taken lightly. He believes firmly 
in individual rights and responsibilities, but his embrace of the 
vaccine was part of keeping his family and community safe from a virus 
factoring in the death of nearly 5,600 Kansans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630694441636.jpeg" alt="Rep. Steven Howe, a Salina Republican, said his journey from vaccine hesitancy to acceptance required a filtering of conflicting information and placing faith in the expertise of health professionals urging vaccination. (Submitted)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Steven Howe, a Salina Republican, said his journey from vaccine hesitancy to acceptance required a filtering of conflicting information and placing faith in the expertise of health professionals urging vaccination. (Submitted)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Honestly, like many, I struggled to navigate the tremendous amount 
of information and misinformation that is out there,” Howe said. “I 
wanted to do my best to make an informed decision. But ultimately, it 
finally came down to trust, and whether or not I was willing to trust 
those with the education, training and expertise regarding this 
vaccine.”The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 47.7% of
 eligible residents in Saline County were fully vaccinated. Overall, the
 CDC said, 57.6% of eligible Kansans have been fully vaccinated.Howe said rising demand for hospital beds, including facilities such 
as the Salina Regional Health Center, was influential in his decision to
 receive the vaccine.“I believe it is time to start trusting our institutions again, while
 also respecting the freedom of individuals to make health care 
decisions they’re comfortable with,” Howe said. “If you haven’t received
 your vaccine yet, please consider doing so.”<h2>Non nobis solum</h2>On Thursday, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican seeking 
re-election, stood with Washburn University president Jerry Farley in a 
campus building to take questions from reporters. Moran said impetus of 
the visit was to learn more about how the pandemic was influencing 
higher education, especially in terms of federal funding that flowed to 
colleges and universities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630694470752.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican seeking re-election in 2022, said he was opposed to COVID-19 vaccination mandates but was strongly supportive of the effort to convince Kansans to voluntarily accept the shot. (Tim Caprenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican seeking re-election in 2022, said he was opposed to COVID-19 vaccination mandates but was strongly supportive of the effort to convince Kansans to voluntarily accept the shot. (Tim Caprenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Both men pivoted to the issue of COVID-19 vaccination of Kansans, and
 their desire for more people to accept this preventative measure.“It’s impossible for the federal government to continue to just 
provide money to all the places that are damaged by COVID,” Moran said. 
“I’d use this opportunity to encourage students and faculty at Washburn,
 and the people of Kansas, to be vaccinated. We don’t have the resources
 just to continue trying to pay for the consequences of our health 
risks.”Farley said the motto of Washburn University was “non nobis solum,” 
which could be translated to “not for ourselves alone.” The Latin text 
is cast in bronze outside Morgan Hall where he was standing. The 
pandemic and debate about vaccines places into context the value of 
contributing to the greater good of society apart from self interests, 
he said.He said the available vaccines for COVID-19 were safe and capable of 
saving lives. And, he said, it was important for people in prominent 
positions of leadership to talk about benefits of vaccination.“I know there’s a lot of myths out there,” Farley said. “There’s a 
lot of things that are questionable, that are being bandied about on 
social media. But our students understand what it means to think 
critically.”Moran said he wasn’t in favor of mandating COVID-19 vaccinations, 
because the decision must remain with the individual. He said acceptable
 exceptions include directives by private businesses in terms of 
employees. Several large hospitals in the Kansas City area, including 
the University of Kansas Hospital System, are requiring staff to be 
vaccinated.“I would just encourage them to think it’s not just about themselves,
 but it’s also about people they know in their families, their neighbors
 and their community,” Moran said. “We continue to promote good science 
and medicine, but people need to make that determination.”<h2>‘Giving people grace’</h2>Howe said a small portion of reaction to his support of COVID-19 
vaccination had been negative. He said conservatives in health care 
professions shared appreciation for his public stand.“I would say probably 95% of reaction I’ve received has been positive,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630694509914.jpeg" alt="Washburn University president Jerry Farley said the university’s motto of “non nobis solum,” or “not for ourselves alone,” captures greater-good rationale for Kansans to be vaccinated for COVID-19. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Washburn University president Jerry Farley said the university’s motto of “non nobis solum,” or “not for ourselves alone,” captures greater-good rationale for Kansans to be vaccinated for COVID-19. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>The question of how to deal with the pandemic in Kansas became a 
partisan issue as many Republicans worked against executive orders and 
other directives tied to COVID-19. Democrats largely accepted work by 
Gov. Laura Kelly to take sweeping action in 2020 by shifting K-12 and 
college instruction to online formats, requiring wearing of face 
coverings in public as well as designating certain occupations 
nonessential so some workers remained off the job.Kelly, who has conducted a campaign to convince people to be tested 
and vaccinated, also sustained federal aid to the unemployed after state
 and federal GOP lawmakers insisted she cut off benefits. She hasn’t 
expressed interest in vaccination mandates, but recently ordered 
executive branch employees to work from home if possible as the delta 
variant of COVID-19 surged across the state.Howe joined with Moran in arguing against a vaccination mandate 
handed down by government because it would likely do more harm than 
good. He said opponents of vaccinations were likely to stiffen their 
resolve. It’s the same thought behind objection to mask mandates, he 
said.“It’s too heavy handed,” Howe said. “We have to be understanding and respectful of one another.”He said it was difficult for people to fully grasp circumstances of 
others in terms of vaccination during the pandemic. In his case, he 
said, his mother, a retired nurse, was influential in his decision.“It’s hard to understand someone else’s journey,” he said. “I always 
error on the side of giving people grace. I think we need to love thy 
neighbor.”Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;