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Despite wind chill temperatures well below zero, veterans in both Salina and Hutchinson traveled to the Robert J. Dole VA clinics in those cities to get vaccinated against COVID-19 on Saturday.

“I need all the help I can get, that’s why I’m getting this shot today,” said J.R. Castro,&nbsp;a 77-year old Army Veteran who served in Vietnam. “I don’t want to find out what COVID is like.”

Raymond Hernandez, 85, and a four-year veteran of the Coast Guard who served in the South Pacific during the Korean War, is hopeful for the freedom the vaccine will bring to his life. When asked if he was excited about getting vaccinated today, his response was “Absolutely.”

“I can feel better about being around people,” said Hernandez, from Salina. “I’ve been pretty well holed up, family members do my shopping and everything, but now I’ll feel a lot better about at least going out once in a while.”

Not every veteran was excited about getting vaccinated, though. Lawayne Cart, a 75-year old veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps from Salina, said he was only getting it because he saw it as a necessity.

The VA vaccinated 200 veterans at each location, or about 40 per hour. Helen Pope, nurse manager for both locations, said the operation ran smoothly. The clinic in Hutchinson had nine staff plus two volunteers for the day, while the Salina location had 12 staff on duty and one volunteer.

Volunteers support the operation by escorting veterans from the waiting area to exam rooms to get vaccinated, and then to the observation area. Each person receiving the vaccine has to be observed for potential reactions for 15 minutes, but those with certain health conditions or on certain medications have to be observed for 30 minutes.

As vaccines become available for more groups of veterans, the VA will inform veterans by letter. VA care teams will also reach out to eligible veterans to schedule vaccinations. There is no need to preregister or come to a facility to sign up.

Veterans need to be enrolled in health care with a Dole VA facility to be eligible for the vaccine. You can learn more about eligibility and how to apply at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits" target="_blank">www.va.gov/healthbenefits</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-222-VETS.

The Dole VA is currently offering the vaccine to veterans 65 years of age and older. Veterans can call 316-469-0914 to schedule an appointment.

Despite wind chill temperatures well below zero, veterans in both Salina and Hutchinson traveled to the Robert J. Dole VA clinics in those cities to get vaccinated against COVID-19 on Saturday.“I need all the help I can get, that’s why I’m getting this shot today,” said J.R. Castro,&nbsp;a 77-year old Army Veteran who served in Vietnam. “I don’t want to find out what COVID is like.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613258854860.jpeg" alt="Veteran Raymond Hernandez gets his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine from Beverly Novak, RN, in Salina. Photos courtesy&nbsp;the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Public Affairs Office" />
 <figcaption>Veteran Raymond Hernandez gets his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine from Beverly Novak, RN, in Salina. Photos courtesy&nbsp;the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Public Affairs Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Raymond Hernandez, 85, and a four-year veteran of the Coast Guard who served in the South Pacific during the Korean War, is hopeful for the freedom the vaccine will bring to his life. When asked if he was excited about getting vaccinated today, his response was “Absolutely.”“I can feel better about being around people,” said Hernandez, from Salina. “I’ve been pretty well holed up, family members do my shopping and everything, but now I’ll feel a lot better about at least going out once in a while.”Not every veteran was excited about getting vaccinated, though. Lawayne Cart, a 75-year old veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps from Salina, said he was only getting it because he saw it as a necessity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613259086595.jpeg" alt="Debbie Allton, lead RN at the Salina VA clinic, screens Lawayne Cart to determine if his observation time after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will be 15 or 30 minutes." />
 <figcaption>Debbie Allton, lead RN at the Salina VA clinic, screens Lawayne Cart to determine if his observation time after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will be 15 or 30 minutes.</figcaption>
 </figure>The VA vaccinated 200 veterans at each location, or about 40 per hour. Helen Pope, nurse manager for both locations, said the operation ran smoothly. The clinic in Hutchinson had nine staff plus two volunteers for the day, while the Salina location had 12 staff on duty and one volunteer.Volunteers support the operation by escorting veterans from the waiting area to exam rooms to get vaccinated, and then to the observation area. Each person receiving the vaccine has to be observed for potential reactions for 15 minutes, but those with certain health conditions or on certain medications have to be observed for 30 minutes.As vaccines become available for more groups of veterans, the VA will inform veterans by letter. VA care teams will also reach out to eligible veterans to schedule vaccinations. There is no need to preregister or come to a facility to sign up.Veterans need to be enrolled in health care with a Dole VA facility to be eligible for the vaccine. You can learn more about eligibility and how to apply at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits" target="_blank">www.va.gov/healthbenefits</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-222-VETS.The Dole VA is currently offering the vaccine to veterans 65 years of age and older. Veterans can call 316-469-0914 to schedule an appointment.--Dole VA Medical Center--

Salina veterans brave extreme cold to get COVID-19 vaccinations

In addition to the wind chill advisories and watches that have been issued, winter weather advisories are looming on the horizon as another winter storm move toward Kansas.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9579e1be-bf96-4f4f-8c49-ce73f635e1bf">NWS: Wind chill advisories remain in effect, watches issued</a>

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/02a84e00-ad6e-4a09-930f-8a0103f5e8af">Weather related closings and delays</a>

For road conditions, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kandrive.org/">kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1 or 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from midnight tonight to the following midnight for the following counties in our area.

Snow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches forecast.

Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

NWS in Hastings, Neb., has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday to 6 p.m. Sunday for the following counties in our area.

Snow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches forecast.

Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. 

NWS in Topeka has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from midnight tonight to the following midnight for the following counties in our area.

Snow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches expected north of an Abilene-to-Ottawa line and 3 to 5 inches expected south of that line.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613256677453.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to the wind chill advisories and watches that have been issued, winter weather advisories are looming on the horizon as another winter storm move toward Kansas.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9579e1be-bf96-4f4f-8c49-ce73f635e1bf">NWS: Wind chill advisories remain in effect, watches issued</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/02a84e00-ad6e-4a09-930f-8a0103f5e8af">Weather related closings and delays</a>For road conditions, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kandrive.org/">kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1 or 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from midnight tonight to the following midnight for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountySnow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches forecast.Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.NWS in Hastings, Neb., has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday to 6 p.m. Sunday for the following counties in our area.Jewell CountyMitchell CountySnow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches forecast.Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. NWS in Topeka has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from midnight tonight to the following midnight for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountySnow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches expected north of an Abilene-to-Ottawa line and 3 to 5 inches expected south of that line.Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

NWS issues winter weather advisories for our area

Kansas Interfaith Action shines light on past acts of racial terrorism

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>

LAWRENCE — A swarm of perhaps 100 white men forced their way into the Douglas County Jail to grab George Robertson, Isaac King and Pete Vinegar from their cells and force them to the Kansas River bridge.

What happened next may come as a surprise to residents of a city burnished by a legacy of free state abolitionist sentiment and knowledge of the mass slaughter of men and boys by William Quantrill’s pro-slavery raiders. The three Black men, with tacit endorsement of local law enforcement, were at the mercy of vigilantes. The throng placed ropes around the neck of each man. They were hung until dead from the old stone, wood and steel river crossing.

“Early one morning in June of 1882, a masked mob of 100 men broke into the city jail and pulled out three African-Americans who had been jailed just a day or two previously,” said Randy Krehbiel, a member of Plymouth Congregational Church in Lawrence. “Took them to the bridge, which was a short distance away, a bridge over the Kansas River, and hung them off steel girders.”

Two of the three had been arrested for murder of a white man, but no evidence tied Vinegar to that crime. Cindy Schott and Kathy Schott Gates wrote about the lynching in their book, “Boys, Let Me Down Easy.” The title came from reports of King’s final words. His killers apparently obliged by lowering him gingerly to allow him to slowly strangle rather than swiftly cause death by snapping his neck.

On Friday, Kansas Interfaith Action conducted a virtual vigil to draw back the curtain on lynchings and other forms of racial terrorism in Johnson, Shawnee, Saline, Crawford, Sedgwick and Douglas counties. It was an effort to amplify underreported history of Kansas, but also register opposition to the death penalty, point to flaws in the criminal justice system and note prevalence of racism in America.

“This isn’t just about looking back and apologizing for something that happened a long time ago,” said the Rev. Rachael Pryor, board chairwoman of Kansas Interfaith Action. “The same attitudes that allowed for, and even celebrated lynching a century ago, are still present in our communities and systems, distorting rights, relationships and racial justice.”

She said communities should own up to the past in which predominantly white faith organizations were complicit in racialized terror by dedicating themselves to changing behavior in people going forward.

“We cannot afford to lose another generation of Black and brown young people to a prison system that seeks to punish, warehouse and dehumanize them,” said the Rev. Robert Johnson, pastor at Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Wichita. “Black Kansans know how directly Kansas’ history of racial discrimination leads to constricted opportunities and even criminalization of Black and brown people today.”

Johnson said he was concerned by the frequently short-lived reaction of people to racial tragedies such as the death of George Floyd, the 46-year-old Black man who died in custody of Minneapolis, Minnesota police on May 25, 2020. A white officer knelt on Floyd’s neck for about nine minutes while the suspect was handcuffed and lying face down. Floyd’s death sparked international protests and outrage.

“There will be a period of dramatic events. People will respond in shock and awe. After a period of time, things die down and they go back to normal,” Johnson said. “How do we not let the energy die down? How do we not allow people to go back to business as usual? We think that one of the things that needs to happen is the people of our country need to be given a broader understanding of both the history of our country but … the racial history that happened here in Kansas.”

Evidence of lynchings in Kansas extend to Saline County, where a Black man was arrested in 1893 for allegedly injuring a white boy with a razor. Rumors of a possible lynching convinced the sheriff to arrange transfer of suspect Dana Adams to Leavenworth by railroad. Adams was placed in a Union Pacific passenger car, but vigilantes unhitched the car as the train pulled away. The crowd gained access to Adams and hung him on a telegraph pole at the station. No arrests were made in the slaying.

In 1889, well-known burglar Nat Oliphant was arrested in the death of A.T. Rogers of Topeka. A crowd gathered at the jail managed to punch a hole in the building’s wall and gain entrance to the cell block. They threw a rope around Oliphant to drag him down the stairs and out of the jail. He was hanged from a pole near First National Bank building downtown. His body was reportedly cut down and put on display by a local undertaker. After burial, the corpse was stolen.

The southeast Kansas county of Crawford was witness in 1885 to the lynching of John Lawrence, 17. He was suspected of assaulting a girl. About 20 men broke down the door to Girard’s jail and proceeded to hang the Black man from rafters of an unfinished home. News accounts say the girl’s father emptied a handgun into Lawrence before the crowd dispersed.

Pryor said these history lessons about racial terror in Kansas could serve as motivation to address criminal justice, poverty and other issues linked to racist law, policy and ideology.

She said records of lynchings were incomplete in Kansas and the names of some victims have been lost. But the goal of hordes who sidestepped the legal system to impose their version of justice did little to obscure their intent to kill people and send a message to others in their communities, she said.

“To clearly say, ‘You had also better watch out, because what happened to this person could also happen to you,'” she said. “A lot us know a little bit about the history of the free state movement for Kansas. Maybe we even think of Kansas as a place that really stood up in opposition to slavery. That is not the whole story.”

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

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. He has been recognized for investigative reporting on Kansas government and politics. He won the Kansas Press Association's Victor Murdock Award six times. The William Allen White Foundation honored him four times with its Burton Marvin News Enterprise Award. The Kansas City Press Club twice presented him its Journalist of the Year Award and more recently its Lifetime Achievement Award. He earned an agriculture degree at Kansas State University and grew up on a small dairy and beef cattle farm in Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613230816113.jpeg" alt="Kansas Interfaith Action highlighted the record of Black lynchings in the state Friday to emphasize the need to understand history and work against racial terrorism in the future. In 1882, three Black men were hanged by vigilantes from a Lawrence bridge since replaced by this modern crossing over the Kansas River. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Interfaith Action highlighted the record of Black lynchings in the state Friday to emphasize the need to understand history and work against racial terrorism in the future. In 1882, three Black men were hanged by vigilantes from a Lawrence bridge since replaced by this modern crossing over the Kansas River. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kansas Interfaith Action shines light on past acts of racial terrorism</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>LAWRENCE — A swarm of perhaps 100 white men forced their way into the Douglas County Jail to grab George Robertson, Isaac King and Pete Vinegar from their cells and force them to the Kansas River bridge.What happened next may come as a surprise to residents of a city burnished by a legacy of free state abolitionist sentiment and knowledge of the mass slaughter of men and boys by William Quantrill’s pro-slavery raiders. The three Black men, with tacit endorsement of local law enforcement, were at the mercy of vigilantes. The throng placed ropes around the neck of each man. They were hung until dead from the old stone, wood and steel river crossing.“Early one morning in June of 1882, a masked mob of 100 men broke into the city jail and pulled out three African-Americans who had been jailed just a day or two previously,” said Randy Krehbiel, a member of Plymouth Congregational Church in Lawrence. “Took them to the bridge, which was a short distance away, a bridge over the Kansas River, and hung them off steel girders.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613230960285.png" alt="The Rev. Robert Johnson, pastor at Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Topeka, says lynching of Blacks in the late 1800s and the death of George Floyd in 2020 demand a sustained campaign to overcome persistent forces of racism in the United States. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Rev. Robert Johnson, pastor at Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Topeka, says lynching of Blacks in the late 1800s and the death of George Floyd in 2020 demand a sustained campaign to overcome persistent forces of racism in the United States. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Two of the three had been arrested for murder of a white man, but no evidence tied Vinegar to that crime. Cindy Schott and Kathy Schott Gates wrote about the lynching in their book, “Boys, Let Me Down Easy.” The title came from reports of King’s final words. His killers apparently obliged by lowering him gingerly to allow him to slowly strangle rather than swiftly cause death by snapping his neck.On Friday, Kansas Interfaith Action conducted a virtual vigil to draw back the curtain on lynchings and other forms of racial terrorism in Johnson, Shawnee, Saline, Crawford, Sedgwick and Douglas counties. It was an effort to amplify underreported history of Kansas, but also register opposition to the death penalty, point to flaws in the criminal justice system and note prevalence of racism in America.“This isn’t just about looking back and apologizing for something that happened a long time ago,” said the Rev. Rachael Pryor, board chairwoman of Kansas Interfaith Action. “The same attitudes that allowed for, and even celebrated lynching a century ago, are still present in our communities and systems, distorting rights, relationships and racial justice.”She said communities should own up to the past in which predominantly white faith organizations were complicit in racialized terror by dedicating themselves to changing behavior in people going forward.“We cannot afford to lose another generation of Black and brown young people to a prison system that seeks to punish, warehouse and dehumanize them,” said the Rev. Robert Johnson, pastor at Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Wichita. “Black Kansans know how directly Kansas’ history of racial discrimination leads to constricted opportunities and even criminalization of Black and brown people today.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613231589535.png" alt="The Rev. Rachael Pryor, board chairwoman of Kansas Interfaith Action, said attitudes of people who celebration lynchings of Blacks a century ago remain a force in Kansas to distort justice, rights and relationships. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Rev. Rachael Pryor, board chairwoman of Kansas Interfaith Action, said attitudes of people who celebration lynchings of Blacks a century ago remain a force in Kansas to distort justice, rights and relationships. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson said he was concerned by the frequently short-lived reaction of people to racial tragedies such as the death of George Floyd, the 46-year-old Black man who died in custody of Minneapolis, Minnesota police on May 25, 2020. A white officer knelt on Floyd’s neck for about nine minutes while the suspect was handcuffed and lying face down. Floyd’s death sparked international protests and outrage.“There will be a period of dramatic events. People will respond in shock and awe. After a period of time, things die down and they go back to normal,” Johnson said. “How do we not let the energy die down? How do we not allow people to go back to business as usual? We think that one of the things that needs to happen is the people of our country need to be given a broader understanding of both the history of our country but … the racial history that happened here in Kansas.”Evidence of lynchings in Kansas extend to Saline County, where a Black man was arrested in 1893 for allegedly injuring a white boy with a razor. Rumors of a possible lynching convinced the sheriff to arrange transfer of suspect Dana Adams to Leavenworth by railroad. Adams was placed in a Union Pacific passenger car, but vigilantes unhitched the car as the train pulled away. The crowd gained access to Adams and hung him on a telegraph pole at the station. No arrests were made in the slaying.In 1889, well-known burglar Nat Oliphant was arrested in the death of A.T. Rogers of Topeka. A crowd gathered at the jail managed to punch a hole in the building’s wall and gain entrance to the cell block. They threw a rope around Oliphant to drag him down the stairs and out of the jail. He was hanged from a pole near First National Bank building downtown. His body was reportedly cut down and put on display by a local undertaker. After burial, the corpse was stolen.The southeast Kansas county of Crawford was witness in 1885 to the lynching of John Lawrence, 17. He was suspected of assaulting a girl. About 20 men broke down the door to Girard’s jail and proceeded to hang the Black man from rafters of an unfinished home. News accounts say the girl’s father emptied a handgun into Lawrence before the crowd dispersed.Pryor said these history lessons about racial terror in Kansas could serve as motivation to address criminal justice, poverty and other issues linked to racist law, policy and ideology.She said records of lynchings were incomplete in Kansas and the names of some victims have been lost. But the goal of hordes who sidestepped the legal system to impose their version of justice did little to obscure their intent to kill people and send a message to others in their communities, she said.“To clearly say, ‘You had also better watch out, because what happened to this person could also happen to you,'” she said. “A lot us know a little bit about the history of the free state movement for Kansas. Maybe we even think of Kansas as a place that really stood up in opposition to slavery. That is not the whole story.”The above story was republished with permission from <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>.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. He has been recognized for investigative reporting on Kansas government and politics. He won the Kansas Press Association's Victor Murdock Award six times. The William Allen White Foundation honored him four times with its Burton Marvin News Enterprise Award. The Kansas City Press Club twice presented him its Journalist of the Year Award and more recently its Lifetime Achievement Award. He earned an agriculture degree at Kansas State University and grew up on a small dairy and beef cattle farm in Missouri.

Obscure history of Black lynchings in Kansas inspires activism

Cold and breezy is not a good combination this weekend.

Wind chill advisories are in effect and wind chill watches have been issued for counties in our area.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4fc865c7-32dc-444b-ba6d-f8e722d44608">NWS issues winter weather advisories for our area</a>

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/02a84e00-ad6e-4a09-930f-8a0103f5e8af">Winter weather closings and delays</a>

A wind chill advisory is now in effect until midnight tonight for the following counties in our area, according to NWS in Wichita.

Very cold air will drive wind chills as low as 20 below at times.

The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.

This will be a long duration period of dangerously cold conditions that will span multiple days, potentially lasting into the middle of next week.

NWS in Hastings, Neb., has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through midnight tomorrow night for the following counties in our area.

Very cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero are forecast.

NWS in Topeka has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through midnight tomorrow night for the following counties in our area.

Wind chills as low as 25 below zero are forecast.

NWS-Wichita has issued a wind chill watch in effect from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning for the following counties in our area.

NWS-Hastings has issued a wind chill watch in effect from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning for the following counties in our area.

Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 40 below zero are forecast.

The dangerously cold wind chills possible late Sunday night through Tuesday morning could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.

NWS-Topeka has issued a wind chill watch in effect from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning for the following counties in our area.

Dangerously cold wind chills are possible, with wind chills as low as 30 below zero.

The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. Keep a blanket and emergency kit inside your vehicle.

Cold and breezy is not a good combination this weekend.Wind chill advisories are in effect and wind chill watches have been issued for counties in our area.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4fc865c7-32dc-444b-ba6d-f8e722d44608">NWS issues winter weather advisories for our area</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/02a84e00-ad6e-4a09-930f-8a0103f5e8af">Winter weather closings and delays</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613226518789.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Wind chill advisories</h2>A wind chill advisory is now in effect until midnight tonight for the following counties in our area, according to NWS in Wichita.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyVery cold air will drive wind chills as low as 20 below at times.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.This will be a long duration period of dangerously cold conditions that will span multiple days, potentially lasting into the middle of next week.NWS in Hastings, Neb., has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through midnight tomorrow night for the following counties in our area.Jewell CountyMitchell CountyVery cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero are forecast.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.NWS in Topeka has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through midnight tomorrow night for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountyWind chills as low as 25 below zero are forecast.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613226573860.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Wind chill watches</h2>NWS-Wichita has issued a wind chill watch in effect from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyWind chills as low as 25 below zero are forecast.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.NWS-Hastings has issued a wind chill watch in effect from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning for the following counties in our area.Jewell CountyMitchell CountyDangerously cold wind chills as low as 40 below zero are forecast.The dangerously cold wind chills possible late Sunday night through Tuesday morning could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.NWS-Topeka has issued a wind chill watch in effect from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountyDangerously cold wind chills are possible, with wind chills as low as 30 below zero.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. Keep a blanket and emergency kit inside your vehicle.

NWS: Wind chill advisories remain in effect, watches issued

PRATT – Frozen lakes can be tempting spots for late-winter goose hunters, anglers with an itch to ice fish, and park-goers looking to get some fresh air, but no matter how thick the ice layer, frozen waters should always be approached with caution.

While no ice is 100 percent safe, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) shares these tips to ensure that outdoors enthusiasts return safely home after recreating near or on frozen waters.

The appearance of the ice can give potential clues to its integrity. New, clear ice is the strongest. White ice may only be about half as strong. Warm, sunny days can melt the surface and “honeycomb” the ice, which will weaken it, as well. Also be aware that temperature, snow cover, currents, springs and even roosting geese can affect the strength and safety of ice. Never take ice strength and thickness for granted.

Wait for at least 4 inches of clear, hard ice before walking on any ice-covered waterbody, and 5-7 inches of ice is necessary to support a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle (ATV). It usually takes several days of calm weather with single-digit temperatures to make “safe” ice. Continually measure the ice thickness when moving farther from shore. And when in doubt, back away and remain on land.

KDWPT recommends never recreating alone, especially during winter; invite a family member or friend. Should an incident occur, chances of survival may be increased with more people present.

If hunting or fishing, pack safety gear

Carry ice picks, and have a length of rope and a throwable floatation device for every member of your party. It’s also a good idea to wear ice cleats, as they make walking on smooth ice easier and much safer.

When ice fishing, it’s best to use an auger to cut holes – this is a quick and efficient method for drilling into the ice. In Kansas, holes cut in the ice of public waters may be no more than 12 inches in diameter; though, this is a good practice for private waters, as well.

Motorized electric or gasoline-powered ATVs, work-site utility vehicles, golf carts and snowmobiles may be operated on ice-covered department waters only for the purpose of ice fishing and only from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Vehicles shall enter onto the ice only from boat ramps and points of entry established by posted notice.

Falling into frigid water can be a deadly mistake as hypothermia can overcome a person within minutes. Follow these basic rules outlined above to ensure your wintertime outings remain safe and enjoyable.

For more ice safety tips, like and follow KDWPT on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/kdwpt" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/kdwpt</a>, or visit ksoutdoors.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613189898295.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy KDWPT" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy KDWPT</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT – Frozen lakes can be tempting spots for late-winter goose hunters, anglers with an itch to ice fish, and park-goers looking to get some fresh air, but no matter how thick the ice layer, frozen waters should always be approached with caution.While no ice is 100 percent safe, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) shares these tips to ensure that outdoors enthusiasts return safely home after recreating near or on frozen waters.The clearer, the betterThe appearance of the ice can give potential clues to its integrity. New, clear ice is the strongest. White ice may only be about half as strong. Warm, sunny days can melt the surface and “honeycomb” the ice, which will weaken it, as well. Also be aware that temperature, snow cover, currents, springs and even roosting geese can affect the strength and safety of ice. Never take ice strength and thickness for granted.Measure for thicknessWait for at least 4 inches of clear, hard ice before walking on any ice-covered waterbody, and 5-7 inches of ice is necessary to support a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle (ATV). It usually takes several days of calm weather with single-digit temperatures to make “safe” ice. Continually measure the ice thickness when moving farther from shore. And when in doubt, back away and remain on land.Don’t go it aloneKDWPT recommends never recreating alone, especially during winter; invite a family member or friend. Should an incident occur, chances of survival may be increased with more people present.If hunting or fishing, pack safety gearCarry ice picks, and have a length of rope and a throwable floatation device for every member of your party. It’s also a good idea to wear ice cleats, as they make walking on smooth ice easier and much safer.If fishing, keep ice holes smallWhen ice fishing, it’s best to use an auger to cut holes – this is a quick and efficient method for drilling into the ice. In Kansas, holes cut in the ice of public waters may be no more than 12 inches in diameter; though, this is a good practice for private waters, as well.Vehicle useMotorized electric or gasoline-powered ATVs, work-site utility vehicles, golf carts and snowmobiles may be operated on ice-covered department waters only for the purpose of ice fishing and only from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Vehicles shall enter onto the ice only from boat ramps and points of entry established by posted notice.Falling into frigid water can be a deadly mistake as hypothermia can overcome a person within minutes. Follow these basic rules outlined above to ensure your wintertime outings remain safe and enjoyable.For more ice safety tips, like and follow KDWPT on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/kdwpt" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/kdwpt</a>, or visit ksoutdoors.com.

 KDWPT provides ice safety tips

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

By ROBERT BICKEL and GENE POLICINSKI

When the Supreme Court declared in Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 that the segregationist doctrine of “separate but equal” was unconstitutional, our government, our society and our very selves were redefined.

With that decision, the court achieved equal status with the other two branches of government — legislative and executive — fulfilling the aspirations for our nation’s democracy.&nbsp;

In that watershed moment, a young&nbsp;Martin Luther King Jr. emerged as a fresh advocate and leader for a movement many hoped would use the high court’s decision to make democracy “real.”

King understood the power of the First Amendment and its guaranteed freedoms, especially the right to protest peacefully. He brought that power alive and helped realize the promise of Brown the following year when he spoke the words that gave the Montgomery, Ala., bus boycott its foundation:

“The only weapon that we have in our hands tonight is the weapon of protest.&nbsp;That’s all.”

With King’s words energizing a peaceful mass protest against racial injustice, the leaders and legions who were prompted to action in Montgomery after&nbsp;Rosa Parks&nbsp;was arrested for refusing to move to the back of a city bus set out to change the nation. They sparked social change and examination that continues today.&nbsp;

For those who want to better understand this and other touchstone events in the fight for civil rights, we have created a free online course, “<a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/first-amendment-center/course-the-first-amendment-and-the-civil-rights-movement/" target="_blank">The First Amendment and the Civil Rights Movement</a>.” The lessons address important civil rights cases, with video interviews of leading figures and historical front pages of newspapers from the Newseum collection to set the scenes.

The course’s interdisciplinary, multimedia design makes it an excellent resource for teachers, public officials, social leaders and others who want to learn about the First Amendment’s roots in the nation’s search for racial justice over more than two centuries to “form a more perfect union.”&nbsp;

Because of the First Amendment, that mid-20th&nbsp;century movement of peaceful mass protest grew throughout the South and continued for a decade. The South’s resistance to Brown elevated the issue of racial segregation to a violation of the civil rights amendments. In turn, that propelled the federal courts at every level to reaffirm Brown in its most expansive terms — with a free press and free speakers tracking every move.&nbsp;

These cases challenged the courts from within to oppose those Southern district and appellate judges who openly espoused resistance to Brown. The Doctrine of Interposition — which allowed states to stand between the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights and federal law — had to be overturned once and for all as an unconstitutional view of states’ rights.

The protests and petitions of the 1950s and 1960s led the White House and Congress to live up to their duty to enforce the human rights at stake in Brown, which required bipartisan political commitment and action. The result was the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act, crowning moments in congressional history.&nbsp;

The Black Lives Matter movement is today’s version of Selma, Ala., where nonviolent marchers in support of voting rights for Black Americans were met on the Edmund Pettus Bridge with billy clubs and tear gas.&nbsp;As&nbsp;David Halberstam&nbsp;wrote in his book “The Fifties,” the earlier movement educated the news media, and the media educated America. The First Amendment freedoms powered that education, then and now, by providing a free press and protecting the rights of those who marched as they sought to touch the conscience of the nation.

The First Amendment is a primary tool for those who seek to revitalize in the 21st&nbsp;century the efforts made in the last century to finally fulfill the promises of freedom and equality in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Robert Bickel, professor emeritus of law at Stetson University College of Law, and Gene Policinski, senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, are authors of “<a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/first-amendment-center/course-the-first-amendment-and-the-civil-rights-movement/" target="_blank">The First Amendment and the Civil Rights Movement</a>,” created with the support of Stetson University and the Freedom Forum. The online course is available to all at no charge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613189001622.jpeg" alt="Civil Rights Movement photo courtesy Freedom Forum" />
 <figcaption>Civil Rights Movement photo courtesy Freedom Forum</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROBERT BICKEL and GENE POLICINSKIWhen the Supreme Court declared in Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 that the segregationist doctrine of “separate but equal” was unconstitutional, our government, our society and our very selves were redefined.With that decision, the court achieved equal status with the other two branches of government — legislative and executive — fulfilling the aspirations for our nation’s democracy.&nbsp;In that watershed moment, a young&nbsp;Martin Luther King Jr. emerged as a fresh advocate and leader for a movement many hoped would use the high court’s decision to make democracy “real.”King understood the power of the First Amendment and its guaranteed freedoms, especially the right to protest peacefully. He brought that power alive and helped realize the promise of Brown the following year when he spoke the words that gave the Montgomery, Ala., bus boycott its foundation:“The only weapon that we have in our hands tonight is the weapon of protest.&nbsp;That’s all.”With King’s words energizing a peaceful mass protest against racial injustice, the leaders and legions who were prompted to action in Montgomery after&nbsp;Rosa Parks&nbsp;was arrested for refusing to move to the back of a city bus set out to change the nation. They sparked social change and examination that continues today.&nbsp;For those who want to better understand this and other touchstone events in the fight for civil rights, we have created a free online course, “<a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/first-amendment-center/course-the-first-amendment-and-the-civil-rights-movement/" target="_blank">The First Amendment and the Civil Rights Movement</a>.” The lessons address important civil rights cases, with video interviews of leading figures and historical front pages of newspapers from the Newseum collection to set the scenes.The course’s interdisciplinary, multimedia design makes it an excellent resource for teachers, public officials, social leaders and others who want to learn about the First Amendment’s roots in the nation’s search for racial justice over more than two centuries to “form a more perfect union.”&nbsp;Because of the First Amendment, that mid-20th&nbsp;century movement of peaceful mass protest grew throughout the South and continued for a decade. The South’s resistance to Brown elevated the issue of racial segregation to a violation of the civil rights amendments. In turn, that propelled the federal courts at every level to reaffirm Brown in its most expansive terms — with a free press and free speakers tracking every move.&nbsp;These cases challenged the courts from within to oppose those Southern district and appellate judges who openly espoused resistance to Brown. The Doctrine of Interposition — which allowed states to stand between the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights and federal law — had to be overturned once and for all as an unconstitutional view of states’ rights.The protests and petitions of the 1950s and 1960s led the White House and Congress to live up to their duty to enforce the human rights at stake in Brown, which required bipartisan political commitment and action. The result was the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act, crowning moments in congressional history.&nbsp;The Black Lives Matter movement is today’s version of Selma, Ala., where nonviolent marchers in support of voting rights for Black Americans were met on the Edmund Pettus Bridge with billy clubs and tear gas.&nbsp;As&nbsp;David Halberstam&nbsp;wrote in his book “The Fifties,” the earlier movement educated the news media, and the media educated America. The First Amendment freedoms powered that education, then and now, by providing a free press and protecting the rights of those who marched as they sought to touch the conscience of the nation.The First Amendment is a primary tool for those who seek to revitalize in the 21st&nbsp;century the efforts made in the last century to finally fulfill the promises of freedom and equality in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.Robert Bickel, professor emeritus of law at Stetson University College of Law, and Gene Policinski, senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, are authors of “<a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/first-amendment-center/course-the-first-amendment-and-the-civil-rights-movement/" target="_blank">The First Amendment and the Civil Rights Movement</a>,” created with the support of Stetson University and the Freedom Forum. The online course is available to all at no charge.

FIRST FIVE: The Civil Rights Movement and the 1st Amendment

Today is Saturday, Feb. 13, the 44th day of 2021. There are 321 days left in the year. 

On Feb. 13, 2016, Justice Antonin Scalia, the influential conservative and most provocative member of the U.S. Supreme Court, was found dead at a private residence in the Big Bend area of West Texas; he was 79. During a Republican presidential debate that evening in South Carolina, the candidates, with the exception of Jeb Bush, insisted that President Barack Obama should let his successor nominate Scalia's replacement. (Obama nominated Merrick Garland; Senate Republicans refused to advance the nomination, which expired the following January.) 

In 1633, Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei arrived in Rome for trial before the Inquisition, accused of defending Copernican theory that the Earth revolved around the sun instead of the other way around. (Galileo was found vehemently suspect of heresy and ended up being sentenced to a form of house arrest.) 

In 1861, Abraham Lincoln was officially declared winner of the 1860 presidential election as electors cast their ballots.

In 1935, a jury in Flemington, New Jersey, found Bruno Richard Hauptmann guilty of first-degree murder in the kidnap-slaying of Charles A. Lindbergh Jr., the 20-month-old son of Charles and Anne Lindbergh. (Hauptmann was later executed.) 

In 1939, Justice Louis D. Brandeis retired from the U.S. Supreme Court. (He was succeeded by William O. Douglas.)

In 1960, France exploded its first atomic bomb in the Sahara Desert.

In 1965, during the Vietnam War, President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized Operation Rolling Thunder, an extended bombing campaign against the North Vietnamese. 

In 1974, Nobel Prize-winning Russian author Alexander Solzhenitsyn was expelled from the Soviet Union. 

In 1991, during Operation Desert Storm, allied warplanes destroyed an underground shelter in Baghdad that had been identified as a military command center; Iraqi officials said 500 civilians were killed. 

In 1998, Dr. David Satcher was sworn in as the 16th Surgeon General of the United States during an Oval Office ceremony. 

In 2000, Charles Schulz's final "Peanuts" strip ran in Sunday newspapers, the day after the cartoonist died in his sleep at his California home at age 77.

In 2002, John Walker Lindh pleaded not guilty in federal court in Alexandria, Va., to conspiring to kill Americans and supporting the Taliban and terrorist organizations. (Lindh later pleaded guilty to lesser offenses and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. He was released in September 2019 after serving 17 years of that sentence.) 

In 2013, beginning a long farewell to his flock, a weary Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his final public Mass as pontiff, presiding over Ash Wednesday services inside St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. 

Ten years ago: Egypt's military leaders dissolved parliament, suspended the constitution and promised elections in moves cautiously welcomed by protesters who'd helped topple President Hosni Mubarak. Lady Antebellum was the big winner at the Grammys with five awards, including record and song of the year for the band's yearning crossover ballad "Need You Now," but rockers Arcade Fire won the biggest prize, album of the year, for their highly acclaimed "The Suburbs."

Five years ago: On his first full day in Mexico, Pope Francis issued a tough-love message to the country's political and church elites, telling them they had a duty to provide their people with security, justice and courageous pastoral care.

One year ago: China reported a surge in deaths and infections from the coronavirus after changing the way the count was tallied; the number of confirmed cases neared 60,000 with more than 1,300 deaths. Japan announced the country's first death from the coronavirus, a woman in her 80s, and said the number of cases on a quarantined cruise ship had reached 218. The cruise ship MS Westerdam, which had been stranded at sea for about two weeks after being refused entry by four Asian governments, docked in Cambodia, where passengers were given health checks. Attorney General William Barr told ABC that President Donald Trump's tweets about Justice Department prosecutors and open cases "make it impossible for me to do my job."

Today's Birthdays: Actor Kim Novak is 88. Actor George Segal is 87. Actor Bo Svenson is 80. Actor Stockard Channing is 77. Talk show host Jerry Springer is 77. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., is 75. Singer Peter Gabriel is 71. Actor David Naughton is 70. Rock musician Peter Hook is 65. Actor Matt Salinger is 61. Singer Henry Rollins is 60. Actor Neal McDonough is 55. Singer Freedom Williams is 55. Actor Kelly Hu is 53. Rock singer Matt Berninger (The National) is 50. Country musician Scott Thomas (Parmalee) is 48. Singer Robbie Williams is 47. Singer-songwriter Feist is 45. Rhythm-and-blues performer Natalie Stewart is 42. Actor Mena Suvari is 42. Actor Katie Volding is 32. Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. (also known as Prince Michael Jackson I) is 24.

<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 Saturday, Feb. 13, the 44th day of 2021. There are 321 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Feb. 13, 2016, Justice Antonin Scalia, the influential conservative and most provocative member of the U.S. Supreme Court, was found dead at a private residence in the Big Bend area of West Texas; he was 79. During a Republican presidential debate that evening in South Carolina, the candidates, with the exception of Jeb Bush, insisted that President Barack Obama should let his successor nominate Scalia's replacement. (Obama nominated Merrick Garland; Senate Republicans refused to advance the nomination, which expired the following January.) On this date: In 1633, Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei arrived in Rome for trial before the Inquisition, accused of defending Copernican theory that the Earth revolved around the sun instead of the other way around. (Galileo was found vehemently suspect of heresy and ended up being sentenced to a form of house arrest.) In 1861, Abraham Lincoln was officially declared winner of the 1860 presidential election as electors cast their ballots.In 1935, a jury in Flemington, New Jersey, found Bruno Richard Hauptmann guilty of first-degree murder in the kidnap-slaying of Charles A. Lindbergh Jr., the 20-month-old son of Charles and Anne Lindbergh. (Hauptmann was later executed.) In 1939, Justice Louis D. Brandeis retired from the U.S. Supreme Court. (He was succeeded by William O. Douglas.)In 1960, France exploded its first atomic bomb in the Sahara Desert.In 1965, during the Vietnam War, President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized Operation Rolling Thunder, an extended bombing campaign against the North Vietnamese. In 1974, Nobel Prize-winning Russian author Alexander Solzhenitsyn was expelled from the Soviet Union. In 1991, during Operation Desert Storm, allied warplanes destroyed an underground shelter in Baghdad that had been identified as a military command center; Iraqi officials said 500 civilians were killed. In 1998, Dr. David Satcher was sworn in as the 16th Surgeon General of the United States during an Oval Office ceremony. In 2000, Charles Schulz's final "Peanuts" strip ran in Sunday newspapers, the day after the cartoonist died in his sleep at his California home at age 77.In 2002, John Walker Lindh pleaded not guilty in federal court in Alexandria, Va., to conspiring to kill Americans and supporting the Taliban and terrorist organizations. (Lindh later pleaded guilty to lesser offenses and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. He was released in September 2019 after serving 17 years of that sentence.) In 2013, beginning a long farewell to his flock, a weary Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his final public Mass as pontiff, presiding over Ash Wednesday services inside St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. Ten years ago: Egypt's military leaders dissolved parliament, suspended the constitution and promised elections in moves cautiously welcomed by protesters who'd helped topple President Hosni Mubarak. Lady Antebellum was the big winner at the Grammys with five awards, including record and song of the year for the band's yearning crossover ballad "Need You Now," but rockers Arcade Fire won the biggest prize, album of the year, for their highly acclaimed "The Suburbs."Five years ago: On his first full day in Mexico, Pope Francis issued a tough-love message to the country's political and church elites, telling them they had a duty to provide their people with security, justice and courageous pastoral care.One year ago: China reported a surge in deaths and infections from the coronavirus after changing the way the count was tallied; the number of confirmed cases neared 60,000 with more than 1,300 deaths. Japan announced the country's first death from the coronavirus, a woman in her 80s, and said the number of cases on a quarantined cruise ship had reached 218. The cruise ship MS Westerdam, which had been stranded at sea for about two weeks after being refused entry by four Asian governments, docked in Cambodia, where passengers were given health checks. Attorney General William Barr told ABC that President Donald Trump's tweets about Justice Department prosecutors and open cases "make it impossible for me to do my job." Today's Birthdays: Actor Kim Novak is 88. Actor George Segal is 87. Actor Bo Svenson is 80. Actor Stockard Channing is 77. Talk show host Jerry Springer is 77. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., is 75. Singer Peter Gabriel is 71. Actor David Naughton is 70. Rock musician Peter Hook is 65. Actor Matt Salinger is 61. Singer Henry Rollins is 60. Actor Neal McDonough is 55. Singer Freedom Williams is 55. Actor Kelly Hu is 53. Rock singer Matt Berninger (The National) is 50. Country musician Scott Thomas (Parmalee) is 48. Singer Robbie Williams is 47. Singer-songwriter Feist is 45. Rhythm-and-blues performer Natalie Stewart is 42. Actor Mena Suvari is 42. Actor Katie Volding is 32. Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. (also known as Prince Michael Jackson I) is 24.

Today in History -- Feb. 13

From the National Weather Service in Wichita:

So we're all aware it has been colder than normal, but by how much? The graphic shows the approximate departure from normal for Friday's observed high temperatures. Most locations were between 30 and 40 degrees below normal. Normal high temperatures are in the mid or upper 40s for most of this area. (Due to averaging, sample values may not precisely match the official departure from normal on climate reports, but should be close.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613180125473.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the National Weather Service in Wichita:So we're all aware it has been colder than normal, but by how much? The graphic shows the approximate departure from normal for Friday's observed high temperatures. Most locations were between 30 and 40 degrees below normal. Normal high temperatures are in the mid or upper 40s for most of this area. (Due to averaging, sample values may not precisely match the official departure from normal on climate reports, but should be close.)

NWS reports on high temperature departures from normal Friday

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 1st Shift 5am - 5:30pm

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 2nd Shift is 5pm - 5:30am

To apply for this position, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>

Russell Stover Chocolates factory is located right off I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923.

Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610422205593.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This position is full time with benefitsWork 36 hours get paid for 40Thursday, Friday and Saturday 1st Shift 5am - 5:30pmThursday, Friday and Saturday 2nd Shift is 5pm - 5:30amTo apply for this position, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>Russell Stover Chocolates factory is located right off I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923.Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

Bill would require Kansas schools to fully reopen next month

Shows are returning to the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.

"We want to say how much we have missed having shows and seeing our Stiefel crews, volunteers, amazing concert-goers, and artists. You all have made everything possible at the Stiefel," Jane Gates, Stiefel executive director, noted in a news release. "During the pandemic we have been hard at work on our historic building - and we can't wait for everyone see our fabulous  upgrades and to experience our new world-class sound system. Our renovations were made possible by Salina2020 working with the City of Salina, and generous donors. We are very grateful."

Gates said work was under way to bring 300-person capacity shows to the Stiefel this summer.

"Safety has always been a priority at the Stiefel, when we reopen it will be safely!" Gates explained.

For now, however, Gates has announced the following shows beginning this fall.

JOSH TURNER Oct. 8, 2021 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale

From the very start of his career through chart-topping hits like Your Man, Would You Go With Me, Why Don’t We Just Dance, and All Over Me, Turner has immersed himself in country music’s history and its iconic figures. After all, this is someone who, as a student at Nashville’s Belmont University, took an open gate on Johnny Cash’s property as a sign he should knock on the legendary singer’s door and introduce himself.

“The doorknob wiggles, the door swings open, and there stands Johnny Cash,” Turner recalls. “He and I both jump back, because he didn’t expect to see me, and I sure didn’t expect him to answer the door.”

Later, as the hits came, along with multiple GRAMMY, CMA, and ACM nominations, Turner joined the Grand Ole Opry. One of country music’s oldest and most hallowed traditions, the Opry once counted Hank Williams Sr., Johnny Cash, and George Jones among its ranks; now, Turner shares membership with heroes like Randy Travis, Alan Jackson, and Patty Loveless, as well as guest Chris Janson. 

For nearly two decades, Turner has been one of country music’s most recognizable voices, selling more than 8.5 million units and amassing more than 2.5 billion global streams. He has never kept his reverence for traditional country music a secret, but, with this latest album, Josh Turner is definitely in a Country State of Mind. Tickets start at $49  488 tickets remain! 

THE OAKRIDGE BOYS Nov. 5, 2021 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale

Theirs is one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of country hits and a number one pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring four decades of charted singles, and 50 years of tradition, to a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere. And each remains as enthusiastic about the process as they have ever been. 

“When I go on stage, I get the same feeling I had the first time I sang with The Oak Ridge Boys,” says lead singer Duane Allen. “This is the only job I've ever wanted to have.” 

“Like everyone else in the group,” adds bass singer extraordinaire, Richard Sterban, “I was a fan of the Oaks before I became a member. I’m still a fan of the group today. Being in The Oak Ridge Boys is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.” 

The two, along with tenor Joe Bonsall and baritone William Lee Golden, comprise one of Country's truly legendary acts. Their string of hits includes the Country-Pop chart-topper Elvira, as well as Bobbie Sue, Dream On, Thank God For Kids, American Made, I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes, Fancy Free, Gonna Take A Lot Of River, and many others. In 2009, they covered a White Stripes song, receiving accolades from Rock reviewers. In 2011, they rerecorded a thirtieth anniversary version of Elvira for a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store project.

The group has scored 12 gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album—plus one double platinum single—and had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits. Tickets start at $49.

STYX (NEW DATE - YOUR PURCHASED TICKETS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER) Nov. 19, 2021 at 8 p.m.

The six men comprising Styx have committed to rocking the Paradise together with audiences far and wide by entering their second decade of averaging over 100 shows a year, and each one of them is committed to making the next show better than the last. Styx draws from over four decades of barn-burning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. 

Like a symphony that builds to a satisfying crescendo, a Styx set covers a wide range of stylistic cornerstones. From the progressively sweeping splendor that is The Grand Illusion&nbsp; to the hunker-down fortitude of all that is the Blue Collar Man, from the majestic spiritual love for a special Lady to the seething indictment of preening, primping pageantry for pageantry’s sake of Miss America, from an individual yearning for true connection as a Man in the Wilderness to a soul-deep quest to achieve what’s at the heart of one’s personal vision in Crystal Ball, from the regal reach-for-the-stars bravado of Come Sail Away to the grainy all-in gallop of that rugged Renegade who had it made, the band draws on an unlimited cache of ways to immerse one’s mind and body in their signature sound. Tickets start at $89.

CELTIC WOMAN (NEW DATE - YOUR PURCHASED TICKETS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER) April 20, 2022 at 8 p.m.

Celtic Woman is recognized as the most successful all-female group in Irish history. The legacy of 12 consecutive Billboard number ones, 10 million album sales, a coveted Grammy nomination and an incredible 1 billion online streams is a testament to all the singers and musicians who pour their heart and soul into Celtic Woman. To mark this achievement and to thank its fantastic fans, the group brings Celebration – The Tour.

Celebration brings together group members' very favorite songs from the journey so far – songs that have created an incredible bond with audiences all over the world.

From the siren call of Orinoco Flow to the playful energy of Teir Abhaile Riu, Celtic Woman invites audience members to come dance with them in Ireland. Rejoice through the lilt of the fiddle and the beat of the drum. Experience the power of the uplifting anthems You Raise Me Up and the soaring harmonies of Danny Boy. "We challenge you to hear our bagpiper lead us in Amazing Grace without shedding a tear," the group noted.

Celtic Woman's fully staged Celebration tour features its stunning band, two pipers, two drummers, traditional step-dancers, backing vocalists, and of course our four fantastic Celtic Woman soloists – Tara McNeill on fiddle and Irish harp, weaving her magic around the spine-tingling voices of Mairéad Carlin, Megan Walsh and original Celtic Woman star, Chloë Agnew, who joins for the 15th anniversary as a special guest artist.

Feel the drama of the songs and stories come vividly to life as they swirl around the stage, catching the light in their sumptuous costumes.  Tickets start at $45.&nbsp; 450 tickets remain! 

The Stiefel box offices are open Monday through Friday from noon-4 p.m. Stop by in person to the walk-up box office by the main entrance on Santa Fe or call between noon-4 p.m. at 785-827-1998. 

Buy online at: <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613172733751.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts</figcaption>
 </figure>Shows are returning to the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts."We want to say how much we have missed having shows and seeing our Stiefel crews, volunteers, amazing concert-goers, and artists. You all have made everything possible at the Stiefel," Jane Gates, Stiefel executive director, noted in a news release. "During the pandemic we have been hard at work on our historic building - and we can't wait for everyone see our fabulous upgrades and to experience our new world-class sound system. Our renovations were made possible by Salina2020 working with the City of Salina, and generous donors. We are very grateful."Gates said work was under way to bring 300-person capacity shows to the Stiefel this summer."Safety has always been a priority at the Stiefel, when we reopen it will be safely!" Gates explained.For now, however, Gates has announced the following shows beginning this fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613173823017.jpeg" alt="Josh Turner" />
 <figcaption>Josh Turner</figcaption>
 </figure>JOSH TURNER Oct. 8, 2021 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on saleFrom the very start of his career through chart-topping hits like Your Man, Would You Go With Me, Why Don’t We Just Dance, and All Over Me, Turner has immersed himself in country music’s history and its iconic figures. After all, this is someone who, as a student at Nashville’s Belmont University, took an open gate on Johnny Cash’s property as a sign he should knock on the legendary singer’s door and introduce himself. “The doorknob wiggles, the door swings open, and there stands Johnny Cash,” Turner recalls. “He and I both jump back, because he didn’t expect to see me, and I sure didn’t expect him to answer the door.”Later, as the hits came, along with multiple GRAMMY, CMA, and ACM nominations, Turner joined the Grand Ole Opry. One of country music’s oldest and most hallowed traditions, the Opry once counted Hank Williams Sr., Johnny Cash, and George Jones among its ranks; now, Turner shares membership with heroes like Randy Travis, Alan Jackson, and Patty Loveless, as well as guest Chris Janson. For nearly two decades, Turner has been one of country music’s most recognizable voices, selling more than 8.5 million units and amassing more than 2.5 billion global streams. He has never kept his reverence for traditional country music a secret, but, with this latest album, Josh Turner is definitely in a Country State of Mind. Tickets start at $49 488 tickets remain! <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613173868732.jpeg" alt="The Oakridge Boys" />
 <figcaption>The Oakridge Boys</figcaption>
 </figure>THE OAKRIDGE BOYS Nov. 5, 2021 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale Theirs is one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of country hits and a number one pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring four decades of charted singles, and 50 years of tradition, to a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere. And each remains as enthusiastic about the process as they have ever been. “When I go on stage, I get the same feeling I had the first time I sang with The Oak Ridge Boys,” says lead singer Duane Allen. “This is the only job I've ever wanted to have.” “Like everyone else in the group,” adds bass singer extraordinaire, Richard Sterban, “I was a fan of the Oaks before I became a member. I’m still a fan of the group today. Being in The Oak Ridge Boys is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.” The two, along with tenor Joe Bonsall and baritone William Lee Golden, comprise one of Country's truly legendary acts. Their string of hits includes the Country-Pop chart-topper Elvira, as well as Bobbie Sue, Dream On, Thank God For Kids, American Made, I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes, Fancy Free, Gonna Take A Lot Of River, and many others. In 2009, they covered a White Stripes song, receiving accolades from Rock reviewers. In 2011, they rerecorded a thirtieth anniversary version of Elvira for a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store project. The group has scored 12 gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album—plus one double platinum single—and had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits. Tickets start at $49.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613173913128.jpeg" alt="Styx" />
 <figcaption>Styx</figcaption>
 </figure>STYX (NEW DATE - YOUR PURCHASED TICKETS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER) Nov. 19, 2021 at 8 p.m.The six men comprising Styx have committed to rocking the Paradise together with audiences far and wide by entering their second decade of averaging over 100 shows a year, and each one of them is committed to making the next show better than the last. Styx draws from over four decades of barn-burning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. Like a symphony that builds to a satisfying crescendo, a Styx set covers a wide range of stylistic cornerstones. From the progressively sweeping splendor that is The Grand Illusion&nbsp; to the hunker-down fortitude of all that is the Blue Collar Man, from the majestic spiritual love for a special Lady to the seething indictment of preening, primping pageantry for pageantry’s sake of Miss America, from an individual yearning for true connection as a Man in the Wilderness to a soul-deep quest to achieve what’s at the heart of one’s personal vision in Crystal Ball, from the regal reach-for-the-stars bravado of Come Sail Away to the grainy all-in gallop of that rugged Renegade who had it made, the band draws on an unlimited cache of ways to immerse one’s mind and body in their signature sound. Tickets start at $89.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613173959737.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CELTIC WOMAN (NEW DATE - YOUR PURCHASED TICKETS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER) April 20, 2022 at 8 p.m.Celtic Woman is recognized as the most successful all-female group in Irish history. The legacy of 12 consecutive Billboard number ones, 10 million album sales, a coveted Grammy nomination and an incredible 1 billion online streams is a testament to all the singers and musicians who pour their heart and soul into Celtic Woman. To mark this achievement and to thank its fantastic fans, the group brings Celebration – The Tour.Celebration brings together group members' very favorite songs from the journey so far – songs that have created an incredible bond with audiences all over the world.From the siren call of Orinoco Flow to the playful energy of Teir Abhaile Riu, Celtic Woman invites audience members to come dance with them in Ireland. Rejoice through the lilt of the fiddle and the beat of the drum. Experience the power of the uplifting anthems You Raise Me Up and the soaring harmonies of Danny Boy. "We challenge you to hear our bagpiper lead us in Amazing Grace without shedding a tear," the group noted.Celtic Woman's fully staged Celebration tour features its stunning band, two pipers, two drummers, traditional step-dancers, backing vocalists, and of course our four fantastic Celtic Woman soloists – Tara McNeill on fiddle and Irish harp, weaving her magic around the spine-tingling voices of Mairéad Carlin, Megan Walsh and original Celtic Woman star, Chloë Agnew, who joins for the 15th anniversary as a special guest artist.Feel the drama of the songs and stories come vividly to life as they swirl around the stage, catching the light in their sumptuous costumes. Tickets start at $45.&nbsp; 450 tickets remain! How to purchase ticketsThe Stiefel box offices are open Monday through Friday from noon-4 p.m. Stop by in person to the walk-up box office by the main entrance on Santa Fe or call between noon-4 p.m. at 785-827-1998. Buy online at: <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

Stiefel: Josh Turner, Oakridge Boys, Styx, Celtic Woman

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

We are saddened to announce that there has been one additional death due to COVID-19 reported since February 10; this brings the total number of members of our community who have lost their lives to this deadly virus to 102. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have 12 patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been 24 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on February 10, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,821.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 1,251 cases. At least 4,468 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>

If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless it has been at least five days since you received your results and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. Please refer to our&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5GGbj6m9FKRRDagUASDZMkJlwQ3bDntcJFYUDJQg-8EXGFQ8fCibb7rMSlBo-WEt94lZKdZgqmaDhzjrD5sVtdrz2ku0wgHVB5&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">FAQ Section</a>&nbsp;for additional questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5GlfnNZ_KurrD4mSXV_0_WlilsC5ySEvWNXFkMT1FuROdaJdIskqorVewrG0Ul9fXqee81Tgf3aPWFdkh7yvxoyIscW2TNDNrT&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 286,102 cases and 4,364 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;

1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;

2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;

3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;

4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;

5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.

6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5Gx7hSz92PX79_HIVRlyrP4jOyhfun1zzPZYjDwpJcEkvPVkWWdSJ2JYdzcdgaivYUTxUHFk0aqIo59neKc2vmctBF7edaSvsZ&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5GtTms5_zuHNGMeKxjN-PVLojMIqJlEX7zLhunSCeVYBTTNmhU4sINTvQGqQolqEWe6mVteTiWtEY=&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613169619166.png" alt="Saline County COVID-19 update 2122021.png" />
 <figcaption>Saline County COVID-19 update 2122021.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.We are saddened to announce that there has been one additional death due to COVID-19 reported since February 10; this brings the total number of members of our community who have lost their lives to this deadly virus to 102. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have 12 patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been 24 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on February 10, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,821. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 1,251 cases. At least 4,468 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless it has been at least five days since you received your results and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. Please refer to our&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5GGbj6m9FKRRDagUASDZMkJlwQ3bDntcJFYUDJQg-8EXGFQ8fCibb7rMSlBo-WEt94lZKdZgqmaDhzjrD5sVtdrz2ku0wgHVB5&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">FAQ Section</a>&nbsp;for additional questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5GlfnNZ_KurrD4mSXV_0_WlilsC5ySEvWNXFkMT1FuROdaJdIskqorVewrG0Ul9fXqee81Tgf3aPWFdkh7yvxoyIscW2TNDNrT&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 286,102 cases and 4,364 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5Gx7hSz92PX79_HIVRlyrP4jOyhfun1zzPZYjDwpJcEkvPVkWWdSJ2JYdzcdgaivYUTxUHFk0aqIo59neKc2vmctBF7edaSvsZ&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010r4IKF4WlJnoyNrNvkCwDdRKecTtoV0XJXj23XyRWBFfKfQZ9DlbY_ubLjM5EA5GtTms5_zuHNGMeKxjN-PVLojMIqJlEX7zLhunSCeVYBTTNmhU4sINTvQGqQolqEWe6mVteTiWtEY=&amp;c=LlFhhrJMrAfGQciN49B6dSFWoNV7CEA4Gy1_5eArjAUTmSj-Dby2ww==&amp;ch=IFk5yrA4e2VFNRkOASqQchB4146yLaOS33sxKKLjhbQPmtZVXiH5Zg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County: 1 new COVID-19 death, 24 new cases

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/333624c5-be6f-4382-9616-687a4e2c8cea">NWS issues winter storm watches for counties in our area</a>

Wind chill advisories from the National Weather Service are still in effect for our area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613179600199.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/333624c5-be6f-4382-9616-687a4e2c8cea">NWS issues winter storm watches for counties in our area</a>Wind chill advisories from the National Weather Service are still in effect for our area.A wind chill advisory remains in effect through noon Saturday for the following counties in our area, according to NWS in Wichita.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyVery cold air will drive wind chills as low as 20 below at times.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.This will be a long duration period of dangerously cold conditions that will span multiple days, potentially lasting into the middle of next week.Additionally, a wind chill advisory remains in effect until noon Saturday for Marion County, according to NWS in Wichita.Very cold air will drive wind chills as low as 20 below at times.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.This will be a long duration period of dangerously cold conditions that will span multiple days, potentially lasting into the middle of next week.A wind chill advisory remains in effect until noon Saturday for the following counties in our area, according to NWS in Hastings, Neb.Jewell CountyMitchell CountyWind chills as low as 20 below zero are forecast. The coldest wind chill values will occur again tonight and early Saturday morning.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.NWS in Topeka has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from midnight tonight to noon on Saturday for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountyVery cold wind chills are expected. Wind chills as low as 20 below zero are forecast.The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.

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