By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

More than $1,800 worth of tools and other items were stolen Sunday from the bed of a construction company pickup parked at a west Salina motel.

Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus said this morning that the tools were stolen from the bed of a Shull Construction pickup sometime between 1-10:30 a.m. Sunday while it was parked at Quality Inn and Suites, 2140 W. Crawford Street.

According to Hanus, $1,300 worth of the tools stolen belonged to a 26-year-old Shull employee. More than $500 belonged to Shull Construction. Items stolen include the following, Hanus said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostMore than $1,800 worth of tools and other items were stolen Sunday from the bed of a construction company pickup parked at a west Salina motel.Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus said this morning that the tools were stolen from the bed of a Shull Construction pickup sometime between 1-10:30 a.m. Sunday while it was parked at Quality Inn and Suites, 2140 W. Crawford Street.According to Hanus, $1,300 worth of the tools stolen belonged to a 26-year-old Shull employee. More than $500 belonged to Shull Construction. Items stolen include the following, Hanus said.●A Milwaukee Packout System●A Milwaukee rolling tool box●A large Milwaukee tool box●Two Milwaukee storage totes●A sawzall●A skill saw●A light●A grinder●A finish nailer●A hand drill

Tools, other items stolen from pickup bed at west Salina motel

ABILENE - The Kansas Department of Transportation has begun a mill and overlay on&nbsp;K-15 in Dickinson County.

Work on K-15 will extend south to the Marion/Dickinson County line from the south city limits of Abilene, approximately 20.5 miles.

Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one lane of traffic through construction. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.

APAC-Kansas Inc. of Hutchinson is the prime contractor and has scheduled this $2.89 million 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.

ABILENE - The Kansas Department of Transportation has begun a mill and overlay on&nbsp;K-15 in Dickinson County.Work on K-15 will extend south to the Marion/Dickinson County line from the south city limits of Abilene, approximately 20.5 miles.Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one lane of traffic through construction. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.APAC-Kansas Inc. of Hutchinson is the prime contractor and has scheduled this $2.89 million 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.

KDOT: Resurfacing project underway in Dickinson County

CKF Addiction Treatment plans to kick off National Recovery Month in September with a color run and other family friendly activities.

"Each September, we celebrate the gains made by those in recovery, just as we celebrate health improvements made by those who are managing other chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease. It’s a chance to educate others about recovery from addiction and mental health, the effectiveness of treatment and recovery support services, and that recovery is possible," CKF Addiction Treatment noted in a news release.

The color run is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Sept. 11, followed by free food, activities, and live music at 11 a.m. in Oakdale Park.

Participants can register online for the Color Run 5k and 1 Mile event at <a href="https://register.chronotrack.com/r/61726">https://register.chronotrack.com/r/61726</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627535109537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CKF Addiction Treatment plans to kick off National Recovery Month in September with a color run and other family friendly activities."Each September, we celebrate the gains made by those in recovery, just as we celebrate health improvements made by those who are managing other chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease. It’s a chance to educate others about recovery from addiction and mental health, the effectiveness of treatment and recovery support services, and that recovery is possible," CKF Addiction Treatment noted in a news release.The color run is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Sept. 11, followed by free food, activities, and live music at 11 a.m. in Oakdale Park.Participants can register online for the Color Run 5k and 1 Mile event at <a href="https://register.chronotrack.com/r/61726">https://register.chronotrack.com/r/61726</a>.

Color run, family activities to mark National Recovery Month

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) wants to alert Kansans to potential air quality impacts from Western wildfire smoke. 

Ongoing wildfires across the Western U.S. continues to produce dense smoke that is being transported into Kansas by the atmospheric winds.

While some of this smoke is remaining high in the atmosphere there are times when this smoke is being observed at the surface and impacting air quality. These air quality impacts may continue to be seen as long as the Western U.S. wildfires continue to burn.

Smoke can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals. Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing and illnesses such as bronchitis. Individuals with respiratory issues, pre – existing heart or lung diseases, children and elderly may experience worse symptoms.

Steps to protect your health on days when particulate matter is present in your community include:

●Healthy people should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor exercise.

 ●People with respiratory or heart-related illness should remain indoors.

 ●People who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms in particular respiratory or heart-related symptoms, who are currently infected or recently recovered, should remain indoors.

●Help keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and running the air conditioners with air filters.

●Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water.

●Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue.

Current air quality across the U.S. can be viewed online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MDIuNDQwMjI3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2ZpcmUuYWlybm93Lmdvdi8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.CzU-Wo-99xssXNFeq1Au_T3U9vH9A9ytUr-LEIFEW8w/s/1305935158/br/110259698201-l" target="_blank">https://fire.airnow.gov/</a>.

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) wants to alert Kansans to potential air quality impacts from Western wildfire smoke. Ongoing wildfires across the Western U.S. continues to produce dense smoke that is being transported into Kansas by the atmospheric winds.While some of this smoke is remaining high in the atmosphere there are times when this smoke is being observed at the surface and impacting air quality. These air quality impacts may continue to be seen as long as the Western U.S. wildfires continue to burn.Smoke can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals. Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing and illnesses such as bronchitis. Individuals with respiratory issues, pre – existing heart or lung diseases, children and elderly may experience worse symptoms.Steps to protect your health on days when particulate matter is present in your community include:●Healthy people should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor exercise. ●People with respiratory or heart-related illness should remain indoors. ●People who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms in particular respiratory or heart-related symptoms, who are currently infected or recently recovered, should remain indoors.●Help keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and running the air conditioners with air filters.●Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water.●Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue.Current air quality across the U.S. can be viewed online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MDIuNDQwMjI3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2ZpcmUuYWlybm93Lmdvdi8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.CzU-Wo-99xssXNFeq1Au_T3U9vH9A9ytUr-LEIFEW8w/s/1305935158/br/110259698201-l" target="_blank">https://fire.airnow.gov/</a>.

KDHE shares steps to protect health amid wildfire smoke impacts

A man with strong ties to both the community and the Tri-Rivers Fair will lead the 2021 fair parade down Santa Fe Avenue on Tuesday.

Dick Brown has been named the 2021 Tri-Rivers Fair Parade grand marshal.

"Barn to be Wild" is the theme of the 2021 Tri-Rivers Fair Parade, which is scheduled to to begin at 7 p.m. at Elm Street and N. Santa Fe Avenue. The parade will roll down Santa Fe Avenue and conclude at the intersection with Prescott Avenue.

Not only was Brown a Saline County 4-Her in his youth, but he also has served on the Tri-Rivers Fair Board, including as board president.

Retired from his family's company, Smoky Hill Construction, Brown also has volunteered with a number of community organizations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627958119776.jpeg" alt="Dick Brown chats with volunteers during a dinner at the Salina Senior Center in 2015. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dick Brown chats with volunteers during a dinner at the Salina Senior Center in 2015. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA man with strong ties to both the community and the Tri-Rivers Fair will lead the 2021 fair parade down Santa Fe Avenue on Tuesday.Dick Brown has been named the 2021 Tri-Rivers Fair Parade grand marshal."Barn to be Wild" is the theme of the 2021 Tri-Rivers Fair Parade, which is scheduled to to begin at 7 p.m. at Elm Street and N. Santa Fe Avenue. The parade will roll down Santa Fe Avenue and conclude at the intersection with Prescott Avenue.Not only was Brown a Saline County 4-Her in his youth, but he also has served on the Tri-Rivers Fair Board, including as board president.Retired from his family's company, Smoky Hill Construction, Brown also has volunteered with a number of community organizations.

Salina's Dick Brown named grand marshal for fair parade

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

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

Recent obituaries

Lott Implement, an AGCO dealer in Minneapolis, Kansas, is looking for a service technician. The duties include repairing combines, tractors and hay equipment.

Lott Implement is looking for someone dependable and motivated, who has their own tools, an is able to get along well with others.

Immediate opening with pay based on experience. Contact Jeff at 785-392-3110 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jlott2522@att.net">jlott2522@att.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587062240402.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lott Implement, an AGCO dealer in Minneapolis, Kansas, is looking for a service technician. The duties include repairing combines, tractors and hay equipment.Lott Implement is looking for someone dependable and motivated, who has their own tools, an is able to get along well with others.Immediate opening with pay based on experience. Contact Jeff at 785-392-3110 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jlott2522@att.net">jlott2522@att.net</a>.

3 from Kan. among 4 dead in head-on crash

Another day of below normal temperatures is forecast for Tuesday with highs ranging from 82 to 91 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. 

Hazy skies are expected again due to the smoke from the wildfires in the western United States. Consider moving your activities indoors if you are in one of the sensitive groups such as those with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, pregnant women or those with other breathing issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627960461447.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Another day of below normal temperatures is forecast for Tuesday with highs ranging from 82 to 91 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Hazy skies are expected again due to the smoke from the wildfires in the western United States. Consider moving your activities indoors if you are in one of the sensitive groups such as those with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, pregnant women or those with other breathing issues.

NWS: Below normal temps, wildfire haze for Tuesday

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

●68 cases of vaccine breakthrough have been identified in the 6756 positive COVID-19 cases.

●Vaccination status of those hospitalized remains unavailable at this time.

●21 people are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19.

●36 new cases of COVID-19 since Friday.

●70 variants were identified in the 194 samples sent from Saline County to KDHE for sequencing.

The Saline County Health Department has identified 68 cases of vaccine breakthrough in the 6756 COVID-19 in Saline County.

Salina Regional Health Center reports they currently have 21 patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. The vaccination status of the hospitalized individuals is not available at this time.

There have been 36 new COVID-19 cases identified since our last update on Friday. The Saline County Health Department staff is actively monitoring 299 cases of COVID-19. There has been a total of 6756 confirmed cases, and at least 6336 people have recovered from COVID-19.

121 members of the community have died due to COVID-19.

KDHE has identified variants in 70 of the 194 specimens sent from Saline County for sequencing.

More data and additional information can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixuMvkC1nGVcszCJPKc784pjXd3Gm1c_oyJqoIwDp3g5jRCZxykSAigvQ2j4QY7JCnHqTmzIG3C32OCAuYimCZGxD85VdjzHJWVsb2w2ALnes&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">Saline County Coronavirus webpage</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixvPK2nJGr1mqlyH1FxGKDlVp6eD-55J9w6wLYyedtvJDOfIvHh1_YF0MAqQcLSMNoMP5boMB60tqwbF3rYrHckAbWb8YEx6SlH0MVAOO7dzqd2UOvkhpmcdm44Vjx0dmAoUGm1ygzv2-&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Information Site</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixo0pv5QeUCkrA9XyojWMVe6Tux1YMH6RfdeNlIOfANU4al9DoQMUCH2dxYiufobaEtkHF-Goilt0IOmdrRoLP0tvvwdSjyKE2rLv-LzKhIeJHs_SRcNOIoDP3Smloe4X-A6UCT4uohJI&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">CDC COVID-19 Tracker</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

●Get tested&nbsp;if you feel unwell, even if you don’t believe it is COVID.You can find testing centers at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixqOQIoAlFhT6QeDMDGoBSbQoTCdrlTriUqbbSnpN5NyV8KMNpG36hv00_W6ps99E5wJCtuB8z_a2j9oe3RbfmQi-QJu7qGvR1w==&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">gogettested.com</a>.

●Get vaccinated.You can find a vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixkwnAMoKk1USN0s4bJIt2bIXN-SD4XjyeAyKePk-AqFq-SmqEszj2taNiflregeGidXvclJXbvKGYW1W-JfecGWTvE30gecAgw==&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">vaccines.gov</a>.

●Wear a mask, especially if you are not fully vaccinated.

●Maintain at least6 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=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixkwnAMoKk1US94xOPetELqPpDXj6rKSRK5GUeAWuUgUzt8YI6_Tyot7Vo_Jg3gViLi_m6TvCg_Eb5X9l0bDHiohe4qCQ92Nt_96ciGXjuhivl5_zKN_fSe-b1wPH_H3o0oDVaASkJQmfN_omiA5Cj0uxHcuhsfH3X5c21TJ8oHx2&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">“hot spots."</a>

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixkwnAMoKk1US94xOPetELqPpDXj6rKSRK5GUeAWuUgUzt8YI6_Tyot7Vo_Jg3gViLi_m6TvCg_Eb5X9l0bDHiohe4qCQ92Nt_96ciGXjuhivl5_zKN_fSe-b1wPH_H3o0oDVaASkJQmfN_omiA5Cj0uxHcuhsfH3X5c21TJ8oHx2&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" 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/2021/8/1627944943764.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday:●68 cases of vaccine breakthrough have been identified in the 6756 positive COVID-19 cases.●Vaccination status of those hospitalized remains unavailable at this time.●21 people are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19.●36 new cases of COVID-19 since Friday.●70 variants were identified in the 194 samples sent from Saline County to KDHE for sequencing.The Saline County Health Department has identified 68 cases of vaccine breakthrough in the 6756 COVID-19 in Saline County. Salina Regional Health Center reports they currently have 21 patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. The vaccination status of the hospitalized individuals is not available at this time. There have been 36 new COVID-19 cases identified since our last update on Friday. The Saline County Health Department staff is actively monitoring 299 cases of COVID-19. There has been a total of 6756 confirmed cases, and at least 6336 people have recovered from COVID-19. 121 members of the community have died due to COVID-19. KDHE has identified variants in 70 of the 194 specimens sent from Saline County for sequencing. More data and additional information can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixuMvkC1nGVcszCJPKc784pjXd3Gm1c_oyJqoIwDp3g5jRCZxykSAigvQ2j4QY7JCnHqTmzIG3C32OCAuYimCZGxD85VdjzHJWVsb2w2ALnes&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">Saline County Coronavirus webpage</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixvPK2nJGr1mqlyH1FxGKDlVp6eD-55J9w6wLYyedtvJDOfIvHh1_YF0MAqQcLSMNoMP5boMB60tqwbF3rYrHckAbWb8YEx6SlH0MVAOO7dzqd2UOvkhpmcdm44Vjx0dmAoUGm1ygzv2-&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Information Site</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixo0pv5QeUCkrA9XyojWMVe6Tux1YMH6RfdeNlIOfANU4al9DoQMUCH2dxYiufobaEtkHF-Goilt0IOmdrRoLP0tvvwdSjyKE2rLv-LzKhIeJHs_SRcNOIoDP3Smloe4X-A6UCT4uohJI&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">CDC COVID-19 Tracker</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;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=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixqOQIoAlFhT6QeDMDGoBSbQoTCdrlTriUqbbSnpN5NyV8KMNpG36hv00_W6ps99E5wJCtuB8z_a2j9oe3RbfmQi-QJu7qGvR1w==&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">gogettested.com</a>.●Get vaccinated.You can find a vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixkwnAMoKk1USN0s4bJIt2bIXN-SD4XjyeAyKePk-AqFq-SmqEszj2taNiflregeGidXvclJXbvKGYW1W-JfecGWTvE30gecAgw==&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">vaccines.gov</a>.●Wear a mask, especially if you are not fully vaccinated.●Maintain at least6 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=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixkwnAMoKk1US94xOPetELqPpDXj6rKSRK5GUeAWuUgUzt8YI6_Tyot7Vo_Jg3gViLi_m6TvCg_Eb5X9l0bDHiohe4qCQ92Nt_96ciGXjuhivl5_zKN_fSe-b1wPH_H3o0oDVaASkJQmfN_omiA5Cj0uxHcuhsfH3X5c21TJ8oHx2&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank">“hot spots."</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MffSdWeHft21dXx6cVmSV_Jdc6GHHRNCz484fYxWjCptzrFo1KAixkwnAMoKk1US94xOPetELqPpDXj6rKSRK5GUeAWuUgUzt8YI6_Tyot7Vo_Jg3gViLi_m6TvCg_Eb5X9l0bDHiohe4qCQ92Nt_96ciGXjuhivl5_zKN_fSe-b1wPH_H3o0oDVaASkJQmfN_omiA5Cj0uxHcuhsfH3X5c21TJ8oHx2&amp;c=j7EKbWqtCPnHAfVpbNj7k4l6gotLSFJeK0gZauDcieqdHn7_mmUsOg==&amp;ch=NsuFZxJ3Lw0vNAOE1UA-svH6_aKRqqI_mCR5c-ptg8cY6KQb_J66-A==" target="_blank"></a>●If you test positive, isolate immediately and be open and honest with COVID caseworkers about your contacts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saline County: 36 new cases of COVID-19 since Friday

A variety of activities are scheduled for this month's First Friday in downtown Salina. 

First&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;is a collaborative evening perfect for exploring restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions in downtown Salina.&nbsp;

This month's&nbsp;First&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;features include:

●Flower Nook, 208 E. Iron Avenue, 4:30-7 p.m. Photography, paintings by Mary Ann, cake shooters, Tarot reading, pet photos, pottery, personalized pet ceramic bowls, gnomes, wedding bouquets and more.

●Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 5-7 p.m. Hu. The HUMAN Element, Film Photography Exhibit by Isaiah Marcotte. Exploring the people and other human influences in our community. Artist talk at 6:30 p.m.

●Salina Art Center Warehouse, 149 S. Fourth Street. Come meet Australian muralist, Guido Van Helten at the Warehouse Education Studio, 5-7 p.m.

●Art Center Cinema, 150 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 6 p.m. Featuring the film, Swan Song. Regular ticket prices apply.

●True Love Tattoo, 117 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Paintings by artist Avery Kasper. Artist will be there from 5-8&nbsp;p.m.

●Out of Obscurity Fine Art, 113 S. Santa Fe Avenue, noon-7 p.m.

●Prairieland Market, 305 E. Walnut Street, 5-7 p.m. Featuring Don Wagner &amp; Friends performing from 5-6:30 p.m. and will be serving samples of prepared and catered foods, and beverages until 7&nbsp;p.m.

●Salina Arts and Humanities, Oakdale Park, 6:30-8 p.m. Bring your park blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the music of Good Morning Bedlam performing live on the Eric Stein Stage and get excited for the 2021 Smoky Hill River Festival! Festival t-shirts and wristbands will be for sale. Free Freddy’s Ice Cream Sandwiches available to the first 175 attendees.

●True Betty Boutique, 117 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Artist Nina Petrie. Artist will be there from 5-7 p.m.

First&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;events are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to walk-in, look around, and enjoy everything downtown Salina has to offer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627942176049.jpeg" alt="S. Santa Fe Avenue in downtown Salina. Photo courtesy Salina Art Center" />
 <figcaption>S. Santa Fe Avenue in downtown Salina. Photo courtesy Salina Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>A variety of activities are scheduled for this month's First Friday in downtown Salina. First&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;is a collaborative evening perfect for exploring restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions in downtown Salina.&nbsp;This month's&nbsp;First&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;features include:●Flower Nook, 208 E. Iron Avenue, 4:30-7 p.m. Photography, paintings by Mary Ann, cake shooters, Tarot reading, pet photos, pottery, personalized pet ceramic bowls, gnomes, wedding bouquets and more.●Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 5-7 p.m. Hu. The HUMAN Element, Film Photography Exhibit by Isaiah Marcotte. Exploring the people and other human influences in our community. Artist talk at 6:30 p.m.●Salina Art Center Warehouse, 149 S. Fourth Street. Come meet Australian muralist, Guido Van Helten at the Warehouse Education Studio, 5-7 p.m.●Art Center Cinema, 150 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 6 p.m. Featuring the film, Swan Song. Regular ticket prices apply.●True Love Tattoo, 117 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Paintings by artist Avery Kasper. Artist will be there from 5-8&nbsp;p.m.●Out of Obscurity Fine Art, 113 S. Santa Fe Avenue, noon-7 p.m.●Prairieland Market, 305 E. Walnut Street, 5-7 p.m. Featuring Don Wagner &amp; Friends performing from 5-6:30 p.m. and will be serving samples of prepared and catered foods, and beverages until 7&nbsp;p.m.●Salina Arts and Humanities, Oakdale Park, 6:30-8 p.m. Bring your park blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the music of Good Morning Bedlam performing live on the Eric Stein Stage and get excited for the 2021 Smoky Hill River Festival! Festival t-shirts and wristbands will be for sale. Free Freddy’s Ice Cream Sandwiches available to the first 175 attendees.●True Betty Boutique, 117 S. Santa Fe Avenue, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Artist Nina Petrie. Artist will be there from 5-7 p.m.First&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;events are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to walk-in, look around, and enjoy everything downtown Salina has to offer.

Downtown Salina is a happening place for First Friday

Kansas Wesleyan has announced it will require face coverings for all individuals in campus buildings for the first two weeks of the fall semester. 

The requirement will be in place Wednesday through Aug. 18 regardless of an individual’s vaccination status, and may be extended if conditions warrant.

“This spring, we created a bubble among our campus community,” said Janeane Houchin, chair of Nursing Education and the KWU COVID-19 task force. “We believe that strategy was successful in limiting the cases we had on campus, and thus, helping to keep our community safe. With the recent increase in variant strains throughout the state, it is important to make sure this bubble exists once again. Our hope is to lift this requirement Aug. 18, but we will be continually evaluating the situation throughout the semester.”

The requirement, much like during the spring, will be enforced in any public area within buildings. Individuals may remove face coverings, if desired, when alone in private offices.

Kansas Wesleyan has announced it will require face coverings for all individuals in campus buildings for the first two weeks of the fall semester. The requirement will be in place Wednesday through Aug. 18 regardless of an individual’s vaccination status, and may be extended if conditions warrant.“This spring, we created a bubble among our campus community,” said Janeane Houchin, chair of Nursing Education and the KWU COVID-19 task force. “We believe that strategy was successful in limiting the cases we had on campus, and thus, helping to keep our community safe. With the recent increase in variant strains throughout the state, it is important to make sure this bubble exists once again. Our hope is to lift this requirement Aug. 18, but we will be continually evaluating the situation throughout the semester.”The requirement, much like during the spring, will be enforced in any public area within buildings. Individuals may remove face coverings, if desired, when alone in private offices.

Kansas Wesleyan to require face coverings at start of semester

Sometime over the weekend, four stop signs were stolen along Kansas Highway 140 (K-140) west of Salina.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that the stop signs were stolen Saturday or Sunday from the K-140 intersections with W. Crawford Street, S. Hohneck Road, S. Link Road, and W. Schilling Road.

The signs, property of the Kansas Department of Transportation, were valued at $100 each, he said.

Additionally, $25 worth of damage was done to one of the sign posts.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSometime over the weekend, four stop signs were stolen along Kansas Highway 140 (K-140) west of Salina.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that the stop signs were stolen Saturday or Sunday from the K-140 intersections with W. Crawford Street, S. Hohneck Road, S. Link Road, and W. Schilling Road.The signs, property of the Kansas Department of Transportation, were valued at $100 each, he said.Additionally, $25 worth of damage was done to one of the sign posts.

Stop signs stolen along K-140 over the weekend

Police are investigating damage to windows of two buildings on S. Ohio Street early Friday.

Sometime between midnight and 8:30 a.m., someone shot at the windows of 1830 S. Ohio Street and 1820 S. Ohio Street, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

The windows possibly were shot with a BB gun, he said.

Damage was estimated at $1,000 for 1830 S. Ohio Street and $800 at 1820 S. Ohio.

Police are investigating damage to windows of two buildings on S. Ohio Street early Friday.Sometime between midnight and 8:30 a.m., someone shot at the windows of 1830 S. Ohio Street and 1820 S. Ohio Street, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.The windows possibly were shot with a BB gun, he said.Damage was estimated at $1,000 for 1830 S. Ohio Street and $800 at 1820 S. Ohio.

Windows shot, damaged on S. Ohio early Friday

Saline County Sheriff's Office personnel conducted a water rescue early Saturday morning north of Salina.

A 57-year-old female and 49-year-old male from Salina, decided to go fishing Friday evening and put their 12-foot semi V Jon boat into the Saline River north of Salina at approximately 7 p.m. and headed downstream, Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning.

The battery on the trolling motor died and the boat eventually got caught in the up-current side of a log jam in the river, he said. At that point, the boat was near the intersection of Tressin Road and Watkins Road.

With the battery on their cellphone fading, the couple called for help at approximately 4:12 a.m. Saturday, Melander said. Saline County Sheriff's Office personnel responded, including a member of the sheriff's office water rescue team. They were able to toss a rescue disk and line to the couple and pull them to shore, he said.

Salina Fire Department water rescue personnel also responded, but the couple was already ashore, Melander said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627929121366.jpeg" alt="The boat caught in a log jam on Saline River. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The boat caught in a log jam on Saline River. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSaline County Sheriff's Office personnel conducted a water rescue early Saturday morning north of Salina.A 57-year-old female and 49-year-old male from Salina, decided to go fishing Friday evening and put their 12-foot semi V Jon boat into the Saline River north of Salina at approximately 7 p.m. and headed downstream, Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning.The battery on the trolling motor died and the boat eventually got caught in the up-current side of a log jam in the river, he said. At that point, the boat was near the intersection of Tressin Road and Watkins Road.With the battery on their cellphone fading, the couple called for help at approximately 4:12 a.m. Saturday, Melander said. Saline County Sheriff's Office personnel responded, including a member of the sheriff's office water rescue team. They were able to toss a rescue disk and line to the couple and pull them to shore, he said.Salina Fire Department water rescue personnel also responded, but the couple was already ashore, Melander said.

Salina couple rescued from Saline River after boat caught in log jam

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Marquette man was arrested on multiple requested charges including theft and possession of methamphetamine.

Officers were called to Dunham's Sports, 2259 S. Ninth Street on Tuesday for the report of an alleged shoplifter. The man, who later was identified as Joshua Swisher, 38, of Marquette, had been in the store several consecutive days prior to Tuesday without purchasing anything, which piqued the interest of store personnel, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

On Tuesday, video surveillance allegedly showed Swisher stealing a Black Swarm 0.177 pellet rifle value at $200.

On Friday, police were once again sent to Dunham's for the report of Swisher allegedly attempting to steal a black SOG backpack, into which he allegedly placed a large quantity of rifle and handgun ammunition, Forrester said. Total for the items, was $1,200.

Swisher was confronted in the store parking lot by Dunham's personnel. He allegedly dropped the backpack and fled on foot, Forrester said.

Officers located Swisher in the Midstate Plaza a short time later. Allegedly in his possession was a tin box with a meth pipe in it.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627737881258.jpeg" alt="Joshua Swisher. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Swisher. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Marquette man was arrested on multiple requested charges including theft and possession of methamphetamine.Officers were called to Dunham's Sports, 2259 S. Ninth Street on Tuesday for the report of an alleged shoplifter. The man, who later was identified as Joshua Swisher, 38, of Marquette, had been in the store several consecutive days prior to Tuesday without purchasing anything, which piqued the interest of store personnel, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.On Tuesday, video surveillance allegedly showed Swisher stealing a Black Swarm 0.177 pellet rifle value at $200.On Friday, police were once again sent to Dunham's for the report of Swisher allegedly attempting to steal a black SOG backpack, into which he allegedly placed a large quantity of rifle and handgun ammunition, Forrester said. Total for the items, was $1,200.Swisher was confronted in the store parking lot by Dunham's personnel. He allegedly dropped the backpack and fled on foot, Forrester said.Officers located Swisher in the Midstate Plaza a short time later. Allegedly in his possession was a tin box with a meth pipe in it.Swisher was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said.●Possession of methamphetamine●Possession of drug paraphernalia●Two counts of theft●Criminal damage to property

Marquette man arrested for allegedly stealing ammo, rifle

GYPSUM - A Gypsum man was injured in a single-vehicle rollover accident in southeastern Saline County Friday evening.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that at approximately 7:30 p.m. Friday, near the intersection of Everhart Road and S. Kipp Road, a 1998 Ford F150 pickup driven by Charles Garrell, 52, of Gypsum, went off the road, struck a concrete box culvert, flipped and landed upside down in a dry creek bed. Garrell and his dog were able to get out of the pickup. Deciding that they weren't injured, Garrell and his dog walked back to their residence in Gypsum.

Saturday morning at approximately 10 a.m., a nearby property owner noticed the pickup on its top in the dry creek bed and called the sheriff's office, Melander said.

Garrell returned to the scene and decided that he was injured, Melander said. Garrell was transported to Salina Regional Health Center.

He told deputies that a small animal had run out in the road in front of the pickup, exciting his dog, whose running back and forth caused Garrell to drive off the road and into the box culvert, Melander said.

Garrell was cited for failure to report an accident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627925119591.png" alt="The pickup came to rest on its top in the dry creek bed. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The pickup came to rest on its top in the dry creek bed. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostGYPSUM - A Gypsum man was injured in a single-vehicle rollover accident in southeastern Saline County Friday evening.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that at approximately 7:30 p.m. Friday, near the intersection of Everhart Road and S. Kipp Road, a 1998 Ford F150 pickup driven by Charles Garrell, 52, of Gypsum, went off the road, struck a concrete box culvert, flipped and landed upside down in a dry creek bed. Garrell and his dog were able to get out of the pickup. Deciding that they weren't injured, Garrell and his dog walked back to their residence in Gypsum.Garrell did not report the accident.Saturday morning at approximately 10 a.m., a nearby property owner noticed the pickup on its top in the dry creek bed and called the sheriff's office, Melander said.Garrell returned to the scene and decided that he was injured, Melander said. Garrell was transported to Salina Regional Health Center.He told deputies that a small animal had run out in the road in front of the pickup, exciting his dog, whose running back and forth caused Garrell to drive off the road and into the box culvert, Melander said.Garrell was cited for failure to report an accident.

Gypsum man injured in single-vehicle rollover accident

A Salina man was injured after the pickup he was driving struck a CityGo bus in south Salina Friday morning.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Nicholas Gebhardt, 33, of Salina, was eastbound on W. Magnolia Road in a 1991 Isuzu pickup when he ran a red light at the intersection of W. Magnolia Road and S. Ninth Street. The pickup struck a northbound 2020 Ford Econoline bus belonging to OCCK, Inc., that was driven by David Perkinson, 64, of Salina.

An independent witness told police that the bus had the green light at the time of the wreck, Forrester said.

Gebhardt complained of a head injury and was transported to Salina Regional Health Center, according to Forrester. A 24-year-old male passenger in the pickup sustained minor injuries but did not seek medical treatment.

The pickup had major front-end damage and had to be towed. The bus had driver's side damage, but was able to be driven away.

Gebhardt was cited for failure to yield, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man was injured after the pickup he was driving struck a CityGo bus in south Salina Friday morning.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Nicholas Gebhardt, 33, of Salina, was eastbound on W. Magnolia Road in a 1991 Isuzu pickup when he ran a red light at the intersection of W. Magnolia Road and S. Ninth Street. The pickup struck a northbound 2020 Ford Econoline bus belonging to OCCK, Inc., that was driven by David Perkinson, 64, of Salina.An independent witness told police that the bus had the green light at the time of the wreck, Forrester said.Gebhardt complained of a head injury and was transported to Salina Regional Health Center, according to Forrester. A 24-year-old male passenger in the pickup sustained minor injuries but did not seek medical treatment.The pickup had major front-end damage and had to be towed. The bus had driver's side damage, but was able to be driven away.Gebhardt was cited for failure to yield, Forrester said.

Driver injured when pickup strikes CityGo bus, cited 

Show us your ugliest boots for a chance to win tickets to the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo and dinner at Mr. K's Farmhouse in Abilene with the rodeo clowns and Miss Rodeo Kansas State.

The contest ends at 7 p.m. tonight, so you'd better hurry!

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e7d33088-715f-48a0-b785-eb6a783eb716#/rounds/1/gallery">Click here to enter!</a>

By SALINA POSTDo you have a pair of ugly boots?Show us your ugliest boots for a chance to win tickets to the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo and dinner at Mr. K's Farmhouse in Abilene with the rodeo clowns and Miss Rodeo Kansas State.The contest ends at 7 p.m. tonight, so you'd better hurry!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e7d33088-715f-48a0-b785-eb6a783eb716#/rounds/1/gallery">Click here to enter!</a>

Have ugly boots? Enter for a chance to win!

A six-year-old boy was injured in an ATV accident late Saturday afternoon west of Salina.

The boy and his 12-year-old brother were riding ATVs on private property in the 9000 block of State Street when the throttle stuck on the 400 Polaris the 6-year-old was riding, Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning. The ATV went through a driveway and struck a parked ATV, causing the boy's ATV to lose a right rear wheel, he said.

The boy was thrown from the ATV. He was wearing a helmet, Melander said.

Deputies and EMS were dispatched to the residence at approximately 5:10 p.m.

The boy was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries, Melander said. The boy was alert and verbal when first responders arrived, he added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627921261351.jpeg" alt="The ATV after the accident. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The ATV after the accident. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA six-year-old boy was injured in an ATV accident late Saturday afternoon west of Salina.The boy and his 12-year-old brother were riding ATVs on private property in the 9000 block of State Street when the throttle stuck on the 400 Polaris the 6-year-old was riding, Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning. The ATV went through a driveway and struck a parked ATV, causing the boy's ATV to lose a right rear wheel, he said.The boy was thrown from the ATV. He was wearing a helmet, Melander said.Deputies and EMS were dispatched to the residence at approximately 5:10 p.m.The boy was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries, Melander said. The boy was alert and verbal when first responders arrived, he added.

Boy injured when thrown from ATV Saturday

Police are investigating the early Sunday morning theft of ammunition, knives, guns, and survival gear from a shed.

Stephen McGee, 71, and Judy McGee, 58, told police that they left their residence in the 100 block of North Chicago Street at approximately 4:30 a.m. Sunday. When they returned at approximately 5:45 a.m., they noticed the door to their shed was open, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. 

The shed door had been pried open and the fence north of the shed was bent down, he said.

Items stolen from the shed included the following, according to Forrester.

●A range bag with ammunition and weapons magazines valued at $2,000

●A dark-colored AR pistol valued at $850

●Two backpacks filled with survival gear valued at $2,000

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating the early Sunday morning theft of ammunition, knives, guns, and survival gear from a shed.Stephen McGee, 71, and Judy McGee, 58, told police that they left their residence in the 100 block of North Chicago Street at approximately 4:30 a.m. Sunday. When they returned at approximately 5:45 a.m., they noticed the door to their shed was open, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The shed door had been pried open and the fence north of the shed was bent down, he said.Items stolen from the shed included the following, according to Forrester.●A range bag with ammunition and weapons magazines valued at $2,000●A box of 40-50 knives valued at $500●An antique shotgun valued at $100●A gray AR pistol valued at $850●A dark-colored AR pistol valued at $850●Two backpacks filled with survival gear valued at $2,000

Weapons, ammo, survival gear stolen from shed Sunday

The Willie Nelson &amp; Family show that was scheduled for Aug. 17 in the Stiefel Theatre has been postponed.

Jane Gates, Stiefel executive director, announced this morning that "due to unforeseen circumstances, this show will be postponed until 2022."

All tickets already sold will be honored at for the new show, which will be announced at a later date.

"If you cannot make the new date, refunds will be available at point of purchase when the new date is announced," Gates noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627868274211.jpeg" alt="Willie Nelson.&nbsp;Photo by Pamela Springsteen courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Willie Nelson.&nbsp;Photo by Pamela Springsteen courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Willie Nelson &amp; Family show that was scheduled for Aug. 17 in the Stiefel Theatre has been postponed.Jane Gates, Stiefel executive director, announced this morning that "due to unforeseen circumstances, this show will be postponed until 2022."All tickets already sold will be honored at for the new show, which will be announced at a later date."If you cannot make the new date, refunds will be available at point of purchase when the new date is announced," Gates noted.

Willie Nelson show at Stiefel Theatre postponed to 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic didn't put a damper on Cornerstone Classical School students' performance.

Through the pandemic average growth for Cornerstone students in Reading Comprehension (RC), Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Mathematics (M) exceeded the average growth among private schools before COVID-19. 

Seventy-five percent of the tests in the lower third stanines at Cornerstone in 2019 either maintained their rank or improved on the 2021 standardized tests.

“From the beginning of the pandemic until now, we have watched many people work hard for our safety and well-being. We are thrilled that our Cornerstone families and staff took up the challenge and worked faithfully when COVID made things difficult. Our test scores show what faithfulness through adversity can accomplish. We are pleased with our overall results, and we are very proud of the results for our struggling students who outperformed expectations!” Headmaster Christopher Stevens said.

Cornerstone Classical School, a private, classical, and Christian school, serves children from pre-school through Grade 12 and is located at 830 S. Ninth Street.

By SALINA POSTThe COVID-19 pandemic didn't put a damper on Cornerstone Classical School students' performance.Through the pandemic average growth for Cornerstone students in Reading Comprehension (RC), Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Mathematics (M) exceeded the average growth among private schools before COVID-19. Seventy-five percent of the tests in the lower third stanines at Cornerstone in 2019 either maintained their rank or improved on the 2021 standardized tests.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627873196319.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“From the beginning of the pandemic until now, we have watched many people work hard for our safety and well-being. We are thrilled that our Cornerstone families and staff took up the challenge and worked faithfully when COVID made things difficult. Our test scores show what faithfulness through adversity can accomplish. We are pleased with our overall results, and we are very proud of the results for our struggling students who outperformed expectations!” Headmaster Christopher Stevens said.Cornerstone Classical School, a private, classical, and Christian school, serves children from pre-school through Grade 12 and is located at 830 S. Ninth Street.

Cornerstone students exceed in multiple categories

If you believe the earth is flat, you will eagerly embrace “The Travel Mask Mandate Repeal Act of 2021” led by Senator Rand Paul (KY) and cosponsored by Senators Marshall (KS), Mike Braun (IN), Tom Cotton (AR), and Roger Wicker (MS). Senator Marshall proclaimed: “This is a time to believe in science, not anxiety or panic.... The science does not support a new mask mandate if you’ve been vaccinated or if you’ve had the virus.”&nbsp; They are dead wrong!

Of course the earth is not flat. And the past strong evidence for face masks providing protection has become even stronger. Just this June 25, the premier world journal&nbsp;Science&nbsp;published another peer-reviewed study “Face masks effectively limit the probability of SARS-CoV-2 transmission” authored by an international team led by researchers at the Max Planck Institute in Germany.

Fifteen graphs in this five-page article summarize the substantial data that have accumulated and detail the extent face masking limits virus transmission. The first effect or “source control” comes from an infected person wearing a mask that reduces their emission and spread of the airborne virus. The second effect is “wearer protection” that reduces the inhalation of airborne droplets and aerosols from others. The third measured effect is when both parties are wearing masks, called “universal masking.”

Data clearly show that protection is greatest when both parties are wearing a mask.&nbsp; But “source control alone is more effective than wearer protection alone....” They found “masks are more effective in removing larger particles, and freshly generated respiratory particles are usually largest at the source, shrinking upon evaporation in indoor air.”

Their graphs for “infection probability” confirm the crucial need to wear masks. I have previously described this as the “I wear a mask to protect you,” and “you wear a mask to protect me” principle. Since up to half of COVID-19-infected persons may not have symptoms, folks who feel healthy can still transmit the virus. That includes some vaccinated people who will not develop symptoms. Therefore, mask wearing as well as distancing remain important for protecting others.

The type of mask is important. These researchers found “that a person typically emits a total number of 3,000,000 particles during a 30-minute period.” This means that “indoor environments are usually in a respiratory particle-rich regime.” Their analysis includes a comparison of surgical masks and N95 or FFP2 masks with less than 5 percent particle penetration, as well as surgical and other masks that have penetration rates from 30 to 70 percent.

The importance of this study is its use of data and math analysis to graph the variable effectiveness of masks when the virus levels in the aerosols in the air are low, versus situations where the air is virus-rich. Their data show that “...mask efficiency strongly depends on airborne virus abundance” and that “virus abundance in most environments is sufficiently low for masks to be effective in reducing airborne transmission.”

The worrisome part of their graphs shows how protection from masks is compromised in virus-rich situations. The intensive care units for COVID-19 patients during the massive outbreaks in New York and elsewhere would be examples of virus-rich situations. Well before this data was available, healthcare workers intuitively saw this danger. Some went to hotel rooms rather than return home each night and endanger their families. This research proves they were correct. Today, many medical workers in virus-rich ICU wards are wearing hazmat suits with self-contained air supplies, and for good reason.

More research remains to be done, especially on whether the inhaled dosage affects the severity of the infection. But the effectiveness of face masking in this pandemic continues to be confirmed. No peer-reviewed science says otherwise.

But two of the five sponsors of this proposed mask mandate repeal proposal are medical doctors. One has touted abandoning a mask being a reward for becoming vaccinated. Another claims that wearing masks causes psychological damage to children and adults, again totally unsupported non-science.

And these are doctors! Do they enter the operating room without wearing a surgical mask?&nbsp;&nbsp;

The DOI for “Face masks effectively limit the probability of SARS-CoV-2 transmission” in&nbsp;Science&nbsp; 25 June2021: ol. 372, Issue 6549, pp. 1439-1443 is DOI: 10.1126/science.abg6296 “The Travel Mask Mandate Repeal Act of 2021” can be found at: <a href="https://www.paul.senate.gov/sites/default/files/page-attachments/BAI21446.pdf">https://www.paul.senate.gov/sites/default/files/page-attachments/BAI21446.pdf&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCKIf you believe the earth is flat, you will eagerly embrace “The Travel Mask Mandate Repeal Act of 2021” led by Senator Rand Paul (KY) and cosponsored by Senators Marshall (KS), Mike Braun (IN), Tom Cotton (AR), and Roger Wicker (MS). Senator Marshall proclaimed: “This is a time to believe in science, not anxiety or panic.... The science does not support a new mask mandate if you’ve been vaccinated or if you’ve had the virus.”&nbsp; They are dead wrong! Of course the earth is not flat. And the past strong evidence for face masks providing protection has become even stronger. Just this June 25, the premier world journal&nbsp;Science&nbsp;published another peer-reviewed study “Face masks effectively limit the probability of SARS-CoV-2 transmission” authored by an international team led by researchers at the Max Planck Institute in Germany. Fifteen graphs in this five-page article summarize the substantial data that have accumulated and detail the extent face masking limits virus transmission. The first effect or “source control” comes from an infected person wearing a mask that reduces their emission and spread of the airborne virus. The second effect is “wearer protection” that reduces the inhalation of airborne droplets and aerosols from others. The third measured effect is when both parties are wearing masks, called “universal masking.” Data clearly show that protection is greatest when both parties are wearing a mask.&nbsp; But “source control alone is more effective than wearer protection alone....” They found “masks are more effective in removing larger particles, and freshly generated respiratory particles are usually largest at the source, shrinking upon evaporation in indoor air.” Their graphs for “infection probability” confirm the crucial need to wear masks. I have previously described this as the “I wear a mask to protect you,” and “you wear a mask to protect me” principle. Since up to half of COVID-19-infected persons may not have symptoms, folks who feel healthy can still transmit the virus. That includes some vaccinated people who will not develop symptoms. Therefore, mask wearing as well as distancing remain important for protecting others. The type of mask is important. These researchers found “that a person typically emits a total number of 3,000,000 particles during a 30-minute period.” This means that “indoor environments are usually in a respiratory particle-rich regime.” Their analysis includes a comparison of surgical masks and N95 or FFP2 masks with less than 5 percent particle penetration, as well as surgical and other masks that have penetration rates from 30 to 70 percent. The importance of this study is its use of data and math analysis to graph the variable effectiveness of masks when the virus levels in the aerosols in the air are low, versus situations where the air is virus-rich. Their data show that “...mask efficiency strongly depends on airborne virus abundance” and that “virus abundance in most environments is sufficiently low for masks to be effective in reducing airborne transmission.” The worrisome part of their graphs shows how protection from masks is compromised in virus-rich situations. The intensive care units for COVID-19 patients during the massive outbreaks in New York and elsewhere would be examples of virus-rich situations. Well before this data was available, healthcare workers intuitively saw this danger. Some went to hotel rooms rather than return home each night and endanger their families. This research proves they were correct. Today, many medical workers in virus-rich ICU wards are wearing hazmat suits with self-contained air supplies, and for good reason. More research remains to be done, especially on whether the inhaled dosage affects the severity of the infection. But the effectiveness of face masking in this pandemic continues to be confirmed. No peer-reviewed science says otherwise. But two of the five sponsors of this proposed mask mandate repeal proposal are medical doctors. One has touted abandoning a mask being a reward for becoming vaccinated. Another claims that wearing masks causes psychological damage to children and adults, again totally unsupported non-science. And these are doctors! Do they enter the operating room without wearing a surgical mask?&nbsp;&nbsp;The DOI for “Face masks effectively limit the probability of SARS-CoV-2 transmission” in&nbsp;Science&nbsp; 25 June2021: ol. 372, Issue 6549, pp. 1439-1443 is DOI: 10.1126/science.abg6296 “The Travel Mask Mandate Repeal Act of 2021” can be found at: <a href="https://www.paul.senate.gov/sites/default/files/page-attachments/BAI21446.pdf">https://www.paul.senate.gov/sites/default/files/page-attachments/BAI21446.pdf&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

EDUCATION FRONTLINES: Face masks are critical protection

Today is Monday, Aug. 2, the 214th day of 2021. There are 151 days left in the year.

On August 2, 1939, Albert Einstein signed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt urging creation of an atomic weapons research program.

In 1610, during his fourth voyage to the Western Hemisphere, English explorer Henry Hudson sailed into what is now known as Hudson Bay.

In 1776, members of the Second Continental Congress began attaching their signatures to the Declaration of Independence.

In 1862, the Ambulance Corps for the Army of the Potomac was created at the order of Maj. Gen. George McClellan during the Civil War.

<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 Monday, Aug. 2, the 214th day of 2021. There are 151 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On August 2, 1939, Albert Einstein signed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt urging creation of an atomic weapons research program.On this date:In 1610, during his fourth voyage to the Western Hemisphere, English explorer Henry Hudson sailed into what is now known as Hudson Bay.In 1776, members of the Second Continental Congress began attaching their signatures to the Declaration of Independence.In 1862, the Ambulance Corps for the Army of the Potomac was created at the order of Maj. Gen. George McClellan during the Civil War.In 1873, inventor Andrew S. Hallidie successfully tested a cable car he had designed for the city of San Francisco.In 1921, a jury in Chicago acquitted several former members of the Chicago White Sox baseball team and two others of conspiring to defraud the public in the notorious "Black Sox" scandal. Opera singer Enrico Caruso, 48, died in Naples, Italy. In 1922, Alexander Graham Bell, generally regarded as the inventor of the telephone, died in Nova Scotia, Canada, at age 75.In 1923, the 29th president of the United States, Warren G. Harding, died in San Francisco; Vice President Calvin Coolidge became president.In 1934, German President Paul von Hindenburg died, paving the way for Adolf Hitler's complete takeover.In 1945, President Harry S. Truman, Soviet leader Josef Stalin and Britain's new prime minister, Clement Attlee, concluded the Potsdam conference.In 1980, 85 people were killed when a bomb exploded at the train station in Bologna, Italy.In 1985, 137 people were killed when Delta Air Lines Flight 191, a Lockheed L-1011 Tristar, crashed while attempting to land at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.In 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, seizing control of the oil-rich emirate. (The Iraqis were later driven out in Operation Desert Storm.)Ten years ago: The Senate passed, and President Barack Obama signed, legislation to avoid an unprecedented national default. New York Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira set a major league record when he homered from both sides of the plate for the 12th time in his career during a 6-0 win over the Chicago White Sox.Five years ago: President Barack Obama castigated Donald Trump as "unfit" and "woefully unprepared" to serve in the White House, and challenged Republicans to withdraw their support for their party's nominee, declaring "there has to come a point at which you say 'enough.'"One year ago: Lord &amp; Taylor, America's oldest retailer, joined the list of retail companies seeking bankruptcy protection after faltering during the pandemic. Florida's east coast was pounded by heavy rain from Tropical Storm Isaias, as state officials dealt with surging cases of the coronavirus. Closing out a test flight by Elon Musk's SpaceX company, two NASA astronauts returned from the International Space Station with a retro-style splashdown, as their capsule parachuted safely into the Gulf of Mexico.Today's Birthdays: Actor Nehemiah Persoff is 102. Rock musician Garth Hudson (The Band) is 84. Singer Kathy Lennon (The Lennon Sisters) is 78. Actor Joanna Cassidy is 76. Actor Kathryn Harrold is 71. Actor Butch Patrick (TV: "The Munsters") is 68. Rock music producer/drummer Butch Vig (Garbage) is 66. Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., is 64. Singer Mojo Nixon is 64. Actor Victoria Jackson is 62. Actor Apollonia is 62. Actor Cynthia Stevenson is 59. Actor Mary-Louise Parker is 57. Rock musician John Stanier is 53. Writer-actor-director Kevin Smith is 51. Actor Jacinda Barrett is 49. Actor Sam Worthington is 45. Actor Edward Furlong is 44. TV meteorologist Dylan Dreyer (TV: "Today") is 40. Actor Marci Miller is 36. Singer Charli XCX is 29. Actor Hallie Eisenberg is 29.

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