Easton Ryser&nbsp;is the latest Comfort Heating and Air Salute to Service honoree.

Easton served in the United States Marine Corps from 2016-2020, rising to the rank of Corporal. While based in San Diego, Easton was deployed to South Korea, Australia, Tonga, and Japan.

His nominator wrote, "He joined during a time of conflict and served his country proudly."

Additionally, Easton graduated from St. John's Military School in 2016.

Congratulations, Easton, on being selected as this week’s Comfort Heating and Air Salute to Service honoree! Thank you for your service!

Comfort Heating and Air and Mokas Coffee are back this fall with their "Salute to Service" program, a weekly contest on Salina Post to honor a local police officers, military members, medical professionals, or first responders. Each week, a winner will be selected and will receive a $50 gift card to Mokas Coffee in Salina.

All the weekly winners will be entered in a random drawing to be held on Dec. 20 to win a Salina Staycation with hotel, a local gift cards for shopping and food. Additionally, Comfort Heating &amp; Air will also donate $500 to the charity or service organization of the grand prize winner’s choice.

To nominate someone you know for Salute to Service, just go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/contests">Contests Page</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">Salinapost.com</a>, click on the Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service link, and enter that person. No purchase is necessary. You must be 18 to enter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604539772408.jpeg" alt="Easton Ryser, right, and his proud father, Jeff. Photo courtesy Jeff Ryser" />
 <figcaption>Easton Ryser, right, and his proud father, Jeff. Photo courtesy Jeff Ryser</figcaption>
 </figure>Easton Ryser&nbsp;is the latest Comfort Heating and Air Salute to Service honoree.Easton served in the United States Marine Corps from 2016-2020, rising to the rank of Corporal. While based in San Diego, Easton was deployed to South Korea, Australia, Tonga, and Japan.His nominator wrote, "He joined during a time of conflict and served his country proudly."Additionally, Easton graduated from St. John's Military School in 2016.Congratulations, Easton, on being selected as this week’s Comfort Heating and Air Salute to Service honoree! Thank you for your service!Comfort Heating and Air and Mokas Coffee are back this fall with their "Salute to Service" program, a weekly contest on Salina Post to honor a local police officers, military members, medical professionals, or first responders. Each week, a winner will be selected and will receive a $50 gift card to Mokas Coffee in Salina.All the weekly winners will be entered in a random drawing to be held on Dec. 20 to win a Salina Staycation with hotel, a local gift cards for shopping and food. Additionally, Comfort Heating &amp; Air will also donate $500 to the charity or service organization of the grand prize winner’s choice.To nominate someone you know for Salute to Service, just go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/contests">Contests Page</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">Salinapost.com</a>, click on the Comfort Heating &amp; Air Salute to Service link, and enter that person. No purchase is necessary. You must be 18 to enter.

Comfort's Salute to Service honors Easton Ryser

Not feeling well? Here's what you need to know:

Not feeling well? Here's what you need to know:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604534666280.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Is it COVID-19, a cold, the flu, or allergies? Symptom need-to-knows

Today is Thursday, Nov. 5, the 310th day of 2020. There are 56 days left in the year. 

On Nov. 5, 2009, a shooting rampage at the Fort Hood Army post in Texas left 13 people dead; Maj. Nidal Hasan, an Army psychiatrist, was later convicted of murder and sentenced to death. (No execution date has been set.) 

In 1605, the "Gunpowder Plot" failed as Guy Fawkes was seized before he could blow up the English Parliament. 

In 1781, the Continental Congress elected John Hanson of Maryland its chairman, giving him the title of "President of the United States in Congress Assembled." 

In 1872, suffragist Susan B. Anthony defied the law by attempting to cast a vote for President Ulysses S. Grant. (Anthony was convicted by a judge and fined $100, but she never paid the penalty.) 

In 1912, Democrat Woodrow Wilson was elected president, defeating Progressive Party candidate Theodore Roosevelt, incumbent Republican William Howard Taft and Socialist Eugene V. Debs. 

In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt won an unprecedented third term in office as he defeated Republican challenger Wendell L. Willkie. 

In 1968, Republican Richard M. Nixon won the presidency, defeating Democratic Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey and American Independent candidate George C. Wallace. 

In 1992, Malice Green, a Black motorist, died after he was struck in the head 14 times with a flashlight by a Detroit police officer, Larry Nevers, outside a suspected crack house. (Nevers and his partner, Walter Budzyn, were found guilty of second-degree murder, but the convictions were overturned; they were later convicted of involuntary manslaughter.) 

In 1994, former President Ronald Reagan disclosed he had Alzheimer's disease. 

In 2003, President Bush signed a bill outlawing the procedure known by its critics as "partial-birth abortion"; less than an hour later, a federal judge in Nebraska issued a temporary restraining order against the ban. (In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act.) 

In 2006, Saddam Hussein was convicted and sentenced by the Iraqi High Tribunal to hang for crimes against humanity. 

In 2014, a day after sweeping Republican election gains, President Barack Obama and incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell pledged to try to turn divided government into a force for good rather than gridlock, yet warned of veto showdowns as well.

In 2017, a gunman armed with an assault rifle opened fire in a small South Texas church, killing more than two dozen people; the shooter, Devin Patrick Kelley, was later found dead in a vehicle after he was shot and chased by two men who heard the gunfire. (An autopsy revealed that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.) 

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, boarded Air Force One to fly to Mumbai, India, the first stop of a 10-day tour through India, Indonesia, South Korea and Japan. A judge in Los Angeles sentenced Johannes Mehserle, a white former transit officer, to two years in prison in the shooting death of Oscar Grant, a Black man, on an Oakland train platform; the minimal sentence provoked angry protests. (Mehserle ended up serving 11 months.) Cable channel MSNBC suspended host Keith Olbermann for two shows for making unapproved political donations. Actor Jill Clayburgh died in Lakeville, Connecticut, at age 66. Opera singer Shirley Verrett, 79, died in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Five years ago: A woman who kept mentally disabled adults captive in the basement of a Philadelphia home and in other states for their disability checks was sentenced by a federal judge to life in prison; Linda Weston, 55, apologized during the hearing, saying: "I believe in God and God knows what happened." Lisa Mearkle, a small-town police officer who fatally shot an unarmed motorist in the back as he was lying facedown on the ground, was acquitted at her murder trial in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.

One year ago: Virginia Democrats took full control of the statehouse for the first time in more than two decades, as suburban voters turned out in big numbers to back Democratic candidates. Residents of Tucson, Arizona, voted overwhelmingly not to become an official "sanctuary city" with more restrictions on how and when police could enforce immigration laws. Voters in Kansas City, Missouri, overwhelmingly approved removing the name of Dr. Martin Luther King from one of the city's most historic boulevards, less than a year after the city council decided to rename The Paseo for the civil rights icon.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Harris Yulin is 83. Actor Chris Robinson is 82. Actor Elke Sommer is 80. Singer Art Garfunkel is 79. Singer Peter Noone is 73. TV personality Kris Jenner is 65. Actor Nestor Serrano is 65. Actor-comedian Mo Gaffney is 62. Actor Robert Patrick is 62. Singer Bryan Adams is 61. Actor Tilda Swinton is 60. Actor Michael Gaston is 58. Actor Tatum O'Neal is 57. Actor Andrea McArdle is 57. Rock singer Angelo Moore (Fishbone) is 55. Actor Judy Reyes is 53. Actor Seth Gilliam is 52. Rock musician Mark Hunter (James) is 52. Actor Sam Rockwell is 52. Country singers Heather and Jennifer Kinley (The Kinleys) are 50. Actor Corin Nemec is 49. Rock musician Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead) is 49. Country singer-musician Ryan Adams is 46. Actor Sam Page is 45. Actor Sebastian Arcelus is 44. Actor Luke Hemsworth is 40. Actor Jeremy Lelliott is 38. Actor Annet Mahendru is 35. Rock musician Kevin Jonas (The Jonas Brothers) is 33. Actor Landon Gimenez is 17.

<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 Thursday, Nov. 5, the 310th day of 2020. There are 56 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Nov. 5, 2009, a shooting rampage at the Fort Hood Army post in Texas left 13 people dead; Maj. Nidal Hasan, an Army psychiatrist, was later convicted of murder and sentenced to death. (No execution date has been set.) On this date: In 1605, the "Gunpowder Plot" failed as Guy Fawkes was seized before he could blow up the English Parliament. In 1781, the Continental Congress elected John Hanson of Maryland its chairman, giving him the title of "President of the United States in Congress Assembled." In 1872, suffragist Susan B. Anthony defied the law by attempting to cast a vote for President Ulysses S. Grant. (Anthony was convicted by a judge and fined $100, but she never paid the penalty.) In 1912, Democrat Woodrow Wilson was elected president, defeating Progressive Party candidate Theodore Roosevelt, incumbent Republican William Howard Taft and Socialist Eugene V. Debs. In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt won an unprecedented third term in office as he defeated Republican challenger Wendell L. Willkie. In 1968, Republican Richard M. Nixon won the presidency, defeating Democratic Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey and American Independent candidate George C. Wallace. In 1992, Malice Green, a Black motorist, died after he was struck in the head 14 times with a flashlight by a Detroit police officer, Larry Nevers, outside a suspected crack house. (Nevers and his partner, Walter Budzyn, were found guilty of second-degree murder, but the convictions were overturned; they were later convicted of involuntary manslaughter.) In 1994, former President Ronald Reagan disclosed he had Alzheimer's disease. In 2003, President Bush signed a bill outlawing the procedure known by its critics as "partial-birth abortion"; less than an hour later, a federal judge in Nebraska issued a temporary restraining order against the ban. (In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act.) In 2006, Saddam Hussein was convicted and sentenced by the Iraqi High Tribunal to hang for crimes against humanity. In 2014, a day after sweeping Republican election gains, President Barack Obama and incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell pledged to try to turn divided government into a force for good rather than gridlock, yet warned of veto showdowns as well.In 2017, a gunman armed with an assault rifle opened fire in a small South Texas church, killing more than two dozen people; the shooter, Devin Patrick Kelley, was later found dead in a vehicle after he was shot and chased by two men who heard the gunfire. (An autopsy revealed that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.) Ten years ago: President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, boarded Air Force One to fly to Mumbai, India, the first stop of a 10-day tour through India, Indonesia, South Korea and Japan. A judge in Los Angeles sentenced Johannes Mehserle, a white former transit officer, to two years in prison in the shooting death of Oscar Grant, a Black man, on an Oakland train platform; the minimal sentence provoked angry protests. (Mehserle ended up serving 11 months.) Cable channel MSNBC suspended host Keith Olbermann for two shows for making unapproved political donations. Actor Jill Clayburgh died in Lakeville, Connecticut, at age 66. Opera singer Shirley Verrett, 79, died in Ann Arbor, Michigan.Five years ago: A woman who kept mentally disabled adults captive in the basement of a Philadelphia home and in other states for their disability checks was sentenced by a federal judge to life in prison; Linda Weston, 55, apologized during the hearing, saying: "I believe in God and God knows what happened." Lisa Mearkle, a small-town police officer who fatally shot an unarmed motorist in the back as he was lying facedown on the ground, was acquitted at her murder trial in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.One year ago: Virginia Democrats took full control of the statehouse for the first time in more than two decades, as suburban voters turned out in big numbers to back Democratic candidates. Residents of Tucson, Arizona, voted overwhelmingly not to become an official "sanctuary city" with more restrictions on how and when police could enforce immigration laws. Voters in Kansas City, Missouri, overwhelmingly approved removing the name of Dr. Martin Luther King from one of the city's most historic boulevards, less than a year after the city council decided to rename The Paseo for the civil rights icon.Today's Birthdays: Actor Harris Yulin is 83. Actor Chris Robinson is 82. Actor Elke Sommer is 80. Singer Art Garfunkel is 79. Singer Peter Noone is 73. TV personality Kris Jenner is 65. Actor Nestor Serrano is 65. Actor-comedian Mo Gaffney is 62. Actor Robert Patrick is 62. Singer Bryan Adams is 61. Actor Tilda Swinton is 60. Actor Michael Gaston is 58. Actor Tatum O'Neal is 57. Actor Andrea McArdle is 57. Rock singer Angelo Moore (Fishbone) is 55. Actor Judy Reyes is 53. Actor Seth Gilliam is 52. Rock musician Mark Hunter (James) is 52. Actor Sam Rockwell is 52. Country singers Heather and Jennifer Kinley (The Kinleys) are 50. Actor Corin Nemec is 49. Rock musician Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead) is 49. Country singer-musician Ryan Adams is 46. Actor Sam Page is 45. Actor Sebastian Arcelus is 44. Actor Luke Hemsworth is 40. Actor Jeremy Lelliott is 38. Actor Annet Mahendru is 35. Rock musician Kevin Jonas (The Jonas Brothers) is 33. Actor Landon Gimenez is 17.

Today in History -- Nov. 5

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

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department tonight announced 58 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 580.

Of that total, 408 have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, the health department reported. Additionally, six of the active cases are hospitalized and an additional person has died, the health department noted.

"MCHD is experiencing high call volumes and high caseload. If there is something you need from MCHD, please feel free to call and if we can’t get to you right then, please leave a message or email us. Email may be the quickest way to get ahold of us right now as most of our cases and contacts are holding up our phones during the day," Shalei Shea, health department director, explained.

Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.

• New cases since last public release: 58

• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 34

• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 5

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department tonight announced 58 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 580.Of that total, 408 have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, the health department reported. Additionally, six of the active cases are hospitalized and an additional person has died, the health department noted."MCHD is experiencing high call volumes and high caseload. If there is something you need from MCHD, please feel free to call and if we can’t get to you right then, please leave a message or email us. Email may be the quickest way to get ahold of us right now as most of our cases and contacts are holding up our phones during the day," Shalei Shea, health department director, explained.Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.• New cases since last public release: 58• Asymptomatic: 30• Cases with unknown exposure: 270• Cases 60 years old and above: 171• Cases 50-59 years old: 74• Cases 40-49 years old: 83• Cases 30-39 years old: 70• Cases 18-29 years old: 124• Cases under 18 years old: 58• Female cases: 315• Male cases: 265• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 34• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 5• Deaths: 8

McPherson County reports 58 new cases of COVID-19; 1 additional death

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the tax industry today warned of a new text scam created by thieves that trick people into disclosing bank account information under the guise of receiving the $1,200 Economic Impact Payment.

The IRS, states and industry, working together as the Security Summit, remind taxpayers that neither the IRS nor state agencies will ever text taxpayers asking for bank account information so that an EIP deposit may be made.

“Criminals are relentlessly using COVID-19 and Economic Impact Payments as cover to try to trick taxpayers out of their money or identities,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “This scam is a new twist on those we’ve been seeing much of this year. We urge people to remain alert to these types of scams.”

The scam text message states: “You have received a direct deposit of $1,200 from COVID-19 TREAS FUND. Further action is required to accept this payment into your account. Continue here to accept this payment …” The text includes a link to a fake phishing web address.

This fake phishing URL, which appears to come from a state agency or relief organization, takes recipients to a fraudulent website that impersonates the IRS.gov Get My Payment website. Individuals who visit the fraudulent website and then enter their personal and financial account information will have their information collected by these scammers.

People who receive this text scam should take a screen shot of the text message that they received and then include the screenshot in an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov" target="_blank">phishing@irs.gov</a>&nbsp;with the following information:

●Date/Time/Timezone that they received the text message. 

●The number that appeared on their Caller ID. 

●The number that received the text message

The IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails. The IRS does not call people with threats of jail or lawsuits, nor does it demand tax payments on gift cards.

People who believe they are eligible for the Economic Impact Payment should go directly to IRS.gov. People who do not have a filing requirement but who are eligible for EIP can use a non-filers tool on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> until Nov. 21 to claim their payment.

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the tax industry today warned of a new text scam created by thieves that trick people into disclosing bank account information under the guise of receiving the $1,200 Economic Impact Payment.The IRS, states and industry, working together as the Security Summit, remind taxpayers that neither the IRS nor state agencies will ever text taxpayers asking for bank account information so that an EIP deposit may be made.“Criminals are relentlessly using COVID-19 and Economic Impact Payments as cover to try to trick taxpayers out of their money or identities,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “This scam is a new twist on those we’ve been seeing much of this year. We urge people to remain alert to these types of scams.”The scam text message states: “You have received a direct deposit of $1,200 from COVID-19 TREAS FUND. Further action is required to accept this payment into your account. Continue here to accept this payment …” The text includes a link to a fake phishing web address.This fake phishing URL, which appears to come from a state agency or relief organization, takes recipients to a fraudulent website that impersonates the IRS.gov Get My Payment website. Individuals who visit the fraudulent website and then enter their personal and financial account information will have their information collected by these scammers.People who receive this text scam should take a screen shot of the text message that they received and then include the screenshot in an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov" target="_blank">phishing@irs.gov</a>&nbsp;with the following information:●Date/Time/Timezone that they received the text message. ●The number that appeared on their Caller ID. ●The number that received the text messageThe IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails. The IRS does not call people with threats of jail or lawsuits, nor does it demand tax payments on gift cards.People who believe they are eligible for the Economic Impact Payment should go directly to IRS.gov. People who do not have a filing requirement but who are eligible for EIP can use a non-filers tool on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> until Nov. 21 to claim their payment.--<a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>--

IRS, state tax agencies warn taxpayers of new COVID-related text scam

A minor earthquake shook part of Saline County southwest of Solomon on Election Night.

According to the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), a 2.2 magnitude quake struck at 8:59 p.m. Tuesday. It was centered on North Donmyer Road between East Campbell Road and East Mariposa Road, KGS reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604538186749.png" alt="Map courtesy KGS" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy KGS</figcaption>
 </figure>A minor earthquake shook part of Saline County southwest of Solomon on Election Night.According to the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), a 2.2 magnitude quake struck at 8:59 p.m. Tuesday. It was centered on North Donmyer Road between East Campbell Road and East Mariposa Road, KGS reported.

Minor earthquake shakes part of northeastern Saline County

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

The Health Department is investigating a public exposure to COVID-19 at La Casita located at 1601 W. Crawford Street in Salina.&nbsp; Potential exposure would have occurred on October 22nd, October 29th, October 30th, and October 31st.&nbsp; If you visited this location on any of these dates, please monitor yourself for symptoms of COVID-19.

The Saline County Treasurer’s Office located at 300 W. Ash, Room 214 will be closed temporarily, with staff working remotely due to potential exposure.&nbsp; If you visited the Treasurer’s Office on Monday, November 2nd, or Tuesday, November 3rd, please monitor yourself for symptoms of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Sadly, the Health Department was also notified of an additional death related to COVID-19 since the last press release.

There are 48 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Monday, November 2.&nbsp; The total for the county is now 1,273 with 200 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,059 that have recovered, and a total of 14 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have 12 hospitalized COVID-19 patients.&nbsp; Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●Mobile Device Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>

●Desktop Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>

If you have been tested for COVID-19, you need to isolate in your home until your test results are back.&nbsp; Do not go to work or school, do not allow visitors to enter your house, arrange for delivery of groceries and food, and monitor yourself for symptoms.&nbsp; Those that are notified of a positive COVID-19 test should take the following precautions:

●If you have severe symptoms, immediately call your primary care provider and follow their directions.

●Isolate yourself in your home.&nbsp; Isolation means that you should not come in contact with anyone, should not leave your house, and should not allow visitors to enter your house.

●Make a list of everyone that you had close contact with (10 minutes within 6 feet) starting two days before symptoms appeared; or if not exhibiting symptoms, two days before the date the laboratory test was performed.

●Keep note of what staff members at the Health Department you speak to.&nbsp; We want to make it easier to connect you to the right person should you have additional questions.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 92,215 cases and 1,087 deaths statewide. This information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.&nbsp;

Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:

●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill.

●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution.

●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings.

●Avoid socializing with large groups.

●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs.

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604531911163.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.The Health Department is investigating a public exposure to COVID-19 at La Casita located at 1601 W. Crawford Street in Salina.&nbsp; Potential exposure would have occurred on October 22nd, October 29th, October 30th, and October 31st.&nbsp; If you visited this location on any of these dates, please monitor yourself for symptoms of COVID-19.The Saline County Treasurer’s Office located at 300 W. Ash, Room 214 will be closed temporarily, with staff working remotely due to potential exposure.&nbsp; If you visited the Treasurer’s Office on Monday, November 2nd, or Tuesday, November 3rd, please monitor yourself for symptoms of COVID-19.&nbsp;Sadly, the Health Department was also notified of an additional death related to COVID-19 since the last press release.There are 48 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Monday, November 2.&nbsp; The total for the county is now 1,273 with 200 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,059 that have recovered, and a total of 14 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have 12 hospitalized COVID-19 patients.&nbsp; Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>●Desktop Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>If you have been tested for COVID-19, you need to isolate in your home until your test results are back.&nbsp; Do not go to work or school, do not allow visitors to enter your house, arrange for delivery of groceries and food, and monitor yourself for symptoms.&nbsp; Those that are notified of a positive COVID-19 test should take the following precautions:●If you have severe symptoms, immediately call your primary care provider and follow their directions.●Isolate yourself in your home.&nbsp; Isolation means that you should not come in contact with anyone, should not leave your house, and should not allow visitors to enter your house.●Make a list of everyone that you had close contact with (10 minutes within 6 feet) starting two days before symptoms appeared; or if not exhibiting symptoms, two days before the date the laboratory test was performed.●Keep note of what staff members at the Health Department you speak to.&nbsp; We want to make it easier to connect you to the right person should you have additional questions.According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 92,215 cases and 1,087 deaths statewide. This information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.&nbsp;Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill. ●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. ●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings. ●Avoid socializing with large groups. ●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs. ●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County: 2 potential exposures, 1 new death, 48 new cases of COVID-19

A Salina man with multiple warrants was arrested late Tuesday after a short pursuit through a Salina neighborhood.

At approximately 11:06 p.m Wednesday, a patrol officer noticed a 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling northbound in the 200 block of South College Avenue with no tail lights on, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.

The officer attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle at the intersection of Iron Avenue and College Avenue, however, the Tahoe continued northbound on College Avenue, Forrester noted. At that point, the officer initiated a pursuit of the vehicle, which turned east on West Ash Street, north on North 13th Street, and east on Park Street before pulling into a driveway in the 700 block of Park Street, Forrester explained.

According to Forrester, the driver, identified as Shane Garrett, 43, of Salina, exited the Tahoe, disobeyed commands from the officer, and entered the residence. A short time later, however, Garrett exited the residence and was taken into custody, Forrester added.

Garrett had warrants for possession of opiates and three other misdemeanor charges out of Saline County District Court and a probation violation out of Saline County District Court, as well as three fail to appear warrants out of Salina Municipal Court, Forrester noted.

Additionally, Garrett was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester reported.

Operating a motor vehicle without operable tail lamps

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604501209323.jpeg" alt="Shane Garrett. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Shane Garrett. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A Salina man with multiple warrants was arrested late Tuesday after a short pursuit through a Salina neighborhood.At approximately 11:06 p.m Wednesday, a patrol officer noticed a 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling northbound in the 200 block of South College Avenue with no tail lights on, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.The officer attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle at the intersection of Iron Avenue and College Avenue, however, the Tahoe continued northbound on College Avenue, Forrester noted. At that point, the officer initiated a pursuit of the vehicle, which turned east on West Ash Street, north on North 13th Street, and east on Park Street before pulling into a driveway in the 700 block of Park Street, Forrester explained.According to Forrester, the driver, identified as Shane Garrett, 43, of Salina, exited the Tahoe, disobeyed commands from the officer, and entered the residence. A short time later, however, Garrett exited the residence and was taken into custody, Forrester added.Garrett had warrants for possession of opiates and three other misdemeanor charges out of Saline County District Court and a probation violation out of Saline County District Court, as well as three fail to appear warrants out of Salina Municipal Court, Forrester noted.Additionally, Garrett was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester reported.Felony interference with law enforcementMisdemeanor flee and eludeDriving while suspendedNot stopping at a stop signIllegal tag displayedOperating a motor vehicle without operable tail lamps

Salina man wanted on multiple warrants arrested after brief pursuit

The Salina Housing Authority (SHA) has announced the hiring of Phil Nix as its executive director.

Nix replaces longtime executive director Tina Bartlett, who resigned to pursue other employment opportunities.

Nix has 27 years of experience in the public housing industry and has served with housing authorities in varied states. He began work with SHA on Oct. 12.

SHA currently has 12 employees and serves 607 housing units and manages an additional 62 units.

The Salina Housing Authority (SHA) has announced the hiring of Phil Nix as its executive director.Nix replaces longtime executive director Tina Bartlett, who resigned to pursue other employment opportunities.Nix has 27 years of experience in the public housing industry and has served with housing authorities in varied states. He began work with SHA on Oct. 12.SHA currently has 12 employees and serves 607 housing units and manages an additional 62 units.

Salina Housing Authority hires Nix as executive director

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

Fall harvest has come to a screeching halt for my family. We have had some minor issues that have slowed us down, but those issues are always expected during the marathon known as fall harvest. We began back in August picking corn. Since then, we have transitioned to popcorn followed by soybeans followed by sorghum with wheat sowing sprinkled into the mix starting in late September.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; And now here we are in November. I can always begin to see the light at the end of the proverbial fall harvest tunnel when we start cutting sorghum. Once we move into our sorghum fields, I know we are getting closer to being done with harvest. We are closer to being done eating sandwiches in the field. Closer to putting fewer miles on my vehicle. Closer to having regular grocery bills for a family of four instead of for a harvest crew. Closer to having my husband home at night to help with bedtime routines. Closer to returning to order and normalcy. &nbsp; When we start harvesting the sorghum, it’s as if a switch is flipped in my mind. It happens every year. For so many months before the sorghum harvest, I try to stay laser focused on the tasks at hand that need to be done on a day-by-day basis. I do what I can to help the crew stay as efficient as possible. I put my head down and keep moving forward while trying to preserve as much of a routine as possible for the kids. But by the time sorghum harvest rolls around, my focus wears off, and I begin envisioning our anticipated “downtime” once harvest wraps up. I am ready to get the crop in and return to normalcy with my family. &nbsp; However, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. Case in point — 2020. The recent change of weather has completely shut down our harvest efforts. We were running full-steam ahead, but our late October ice and snow has made it impossible to get the machines into fields. It’s simply too wet. My husband half-jokingly stated we should be done with harvest by Christmas now.&nbsp; &nbsp; Wait, what? &nbsp; In the 10 years I’ve been part of this farm, the latest we have ever gone with fall harvest is the day before Thanksgiving. I’d like to aim for the eve of Thanksgiving this year if possible. But I realize we very well could be harvesting into December. Afterall, we still have the sunflower crop to harvest after we get done with the sorghum. &nbsp; One silver lining to harvest being delayed because of weather is my husband has been home during the evenings. My family has been able to eat warm meals at the kitchen table together. We’ve cuddled on the couch with the kids to enjoy a family movie night. We’ve played board games in the living room before bedtimes. It’s a rare occurrence to have him join us at home in the evenings during fall harvest, but it’s one we truly embrace when we get the sweet opportunity.&nbsp; &nbsp; I know this pause in harvest will soon end, and I also know we will eventually get all of the crops out of the fields. Even though it’s less than ideal — and regardless of my desire to get harvest done as soon as possible — there is a possibility that we will harvest clear into late December. I’ll continue to remind myself that whenever we officially finish our fall harvest it will still allow my little farm family some much anticipated normalcy before spring planting begins and another busy season rolls around.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherFall harvest has come to a screeching halt for my family. We have had some minor issues that have slowed us down, but those issues are always expected during the marathon known as fall harvest. We began back in August picking corn. Since then, we have transitioned to popcorn followed by soybeans followed by sorghum with wheat sowing sprinkled into the mix starting in late September.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; And now here we are in November. I can always begin to see the light at the end of the proverbial fall harvest tunnel when we start cutting sorghum. Once we move into our sorghum fields, I know we are getting closer to being done with harvest. We are closer to being done eating sandwiches in the field. Closer to putting fewer miles on my vehicle. Closer to having regular grocery bills for a family of four instead of for a harvest crew. Closer to having my husband home at night to help with bedtime routines. Closer to returning to order and normalcy. &nbsp; When we start harvesting the sorghum, it’s as if a switch is flipped in my mind. It happens every year. For so many months before the sorghum harvest, I try to stay laser focused on the tasks at hand that need to be done on a day-by-day basis. I do what I can to help the crew stay as efficient as possible. I put my head down and keep moving forward while trying to preserve as much of a routine as possible for the kids. But by the time sorghum harvest rolls around, my focus wears off, and I begin envisioning our anticipated “downtime” once harvest wraps up. I am ready to get the crop in and return to normalcy with my family. &nbsp; However, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. Case in point — 2020. The recent change of weather has completely shut down our harvest efforts. We were running full-steam ahead, but our late October ice and snow has made it impossible to get the machines into fields. It’s simply too wet. My husband half-jokingly stated we should be done with harvest by Christmas now.&nbsp; &nbsp; Wait, what? &nbsp; In the 10 years I’ve been part of this farm, the latest we have ever gone with fall harvest is the day before Thanksgiving. I’d like to aim for the eve of Thanksgiving this year if possible. But I realize we very well could be harvesting into December. Afterall, we still have the sunflower crop to harvest after we get done with the sorghum. &nbsp; One silver lining to harvest being delayed because of weather is my husband has been home during the evenings. My family has been able to eat warm meals at the kitchen table together. We’ve cuddled on the couch with the kids to enjoy a family movie night. We’ve played board games in the living room before bedtimes. It’s a rare occurrence to have him join us at home in the evenings during fall harvest, but it’s one we truly embrace when we get the sweet opportunity.&nbsp; &nbsp; I know this pause in harvest will soon end, and I also know we will eventually get all of the crops out of the fields. Even though it’s less than ideal — and regardless of my desire to get harvest done as soon as possible — there is a possibility that we will harvest clear into late December. I’ll continue to remind myself that whenever we officially finish our fall harvest it will still allow my little farm family some much anticipated normalcy before spring planting begins and another busy season rolls around. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Anticipating normalcy

Today is Wednesday, Nov. 4, the 309th day of 2020. There are 57 days left in the year. 

On Nov. 4, 2008, Democrat Barack Obama was elected the first Black president of the United States, defeating Republican John McCain. 

In 1842, Abraham Lincoln married Mary Todd in Springfield, Illinois.

In 1916, CBS newsman Walter Cronkite was born in Saint Joseph, Missouri. 

In 1922, the entrance to King Tutankhamen's tomb was discovered in Egypt. 

In 1956, Soviet troops moved in to crush the Hungarian Revolution. 

In 1979, the Iran hostage crisis began as militants stormed the United States Embassy in Tehran, seizing its occupants; for some of them, it was the start of 444 days of captivity. 

In 1980, Republican Ronald Reagan won the White House as he defeated President Jimmy Carter by a strong margin. 

In 1985, to the shock and dismay of U-S officials, Soviet defector Vitaly Yurchenko announced he was returning to the Soviet Union, charging he had been kidnapped by the C-I-A.

In 1991, Ronald Reagan opened his presidential library in Simi Valley, California; attending were President George H.W. Bush and former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Gerald R. Ford and Richard Nixon — the first-ever gathering of five past and present U.S. chief executives. 

In 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated by a right-wing Israeli minutes after attending a festive peace rally.

In 2001, NBC's "The West Wing" took eight honors at the twice-delayed Emmy Awards, including best dramatic series; HBO's "Sex and the City" won best comedy series.

In 2008, California voters approved Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment outlawing same-sex marriage, overturning a state Supreme Court decision that gave gay couples the right to wed just months earlier. 

In 2014, riding a powerful wave of voter discontent, resurgent Republicans captured control of the Senate and tightened their grip on the House. 

Ten years ago: Australian airline Qantas grounded all six of its Airbus A380 superjumbo jets after one of them blew out an engine over Indonesia; the plane made a safe emergency return to Singapore with 469 people aboard. An AeroCaribbean ATR 72 crashed in a mountainous area of Cuba, killing all 68 people on board. Hall of Fame baseball team manager Sparky Anderson died in Thousand Oaks, California, at age 76.

Five years ago: Justin Trudeau was sworn in as Canada's new Liberal prime minister. A factory building collapsed in Lahore, Pakistan, killing more than 50 people. At the Country Music Association Awards, Chris Stapleton won for male vocalist, new artist and album of the year for "Traveller." Hollywood screenwriter Melissa Mathison ("E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial") died in Los Angeles at age 65.

One year ago: The Trump administration said it had formally notified the United Nations that the United States had begun the process of pulling out of the 2015 Paris climate agreement. Iran broke further away from the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers by doubling the number of advanced centrifuges it operated. New York Police Commissioner James O'Neill, who'd been increasingly under fire amid a tug-of-war between reform advocates and police unions, announced his retirement. Former President Bill Clinton was among the speakers at the Detroit funeral of longtime U.S. Rep. John Conyers.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Loretta Swit is 83. Rhythm-and-blues singer Harry Elston (Friends of Distinction) is 82. Blues singer Delbert McClinton is 80. Former first lady Laura Bush is 74. Actor Ivonne Coll is 73. Actor Markie Post is 70. Rock singer-musician Chris Difford (Squeeze) is 66. Country singer Kim Forester (The Forester Sisters) is 60. Actor-comedian Kathy Griffin is 60. Actor Ralph Macchio is 59. "Survivor" host Jeff Probst is 59. Saxophonist Tim Burton is 57. Actor Matthew McConaughey is 51. Rapper-producer Sean "Puffy" Combs is 51. Talk show host Bethenny Frankel is 50. Actor Anthony Ruivivar is 50. Soul/jazz singer Gregory Porter is 49. Rhythm-and-blues singer Shawn Rivera (Az Yet) is 49. Celebrity chef Curtis Stone is 45. Actor Heather Tom is 45. Rhythm-and-blues/gospel singer George Huff is 40. Actor Emme Rylan is 40. Actor Chris Greene (Film: "Loving") is 38.

<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 Wednesday, Nov. 4, the 309th day of 2020. There are 57 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Nov. 4, 2008, Democrat Barack Obama was elected the first Black president of the United States, defeating Republican John McCain. On this date: In 1842, Abraham Lincoln married Mary Todd in Springfield, Illinois.In 1916, CBS newsman Walter Cronkite was born in Saint Joseph, Missouri. In 1922, the entrance to King Tutankhamen's tomb was discovered in Egypt. In 1956, Soviet troops moved in to crush the Hungarian Revolution. In 1979, the Iran hostage crisis began as militants stormed the United States Embassy in Tehran, seizing its occupants; for some of them, it was the start of 444 days of captivity. In 1980, Republican Ronald Reagan won the White House as he defeated President Jimmy Carter by a strong margin. In 1985, to the shock and dismay of U-S officials, Soviet defector Vitaly Yurchenko announced he was returning to the Soviet Union, charging he had been kidnapped by the C-I-A.In 1991, Ronald Reagan opened his presidential library in Simi Valley, California; attending were President George H.W. Bush and former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Gerald R. Ford and Richard Nixon — the first-ever gathering of five past and present U.S. chief executives. In 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated by a right-wing Israeli minutes after attending a festive peace rally.In 2001, NBC's "The West Wing" took eight honors at the twice-delayed Emmy Awards, including best dramatic series; HBO's "Sex and the City" won best comedy series.In 2008, California voters approved Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment outlawing same-sex marriage, overturning a state Supreme Court decision that gave gay couples the right to wed just months earlier. In 2014, riding a powerful wave of voter discontent, resurgent Republicans captured control of the Senate and tightened their grip on the House. Ten years ago: Australian airline Qantas grounded all six of its Airbus A380 superjumbo jets after one of them blew out an engine over Indonesia; the plane made a safe emergency return to Singapore with 469 people aboard. An AeroCaribbean ATR 72 crashed in a mountainous area of Cuba, killing all 68 people on board. Hall of Fame baseball team manager Sparky Anderson died in Thousand Oaks, California, at age 76.Five years ago: Justin Trudeau was sworn in as Canada's new Liberal prime minister. A factory building collapsed in Lahore, Pakistan, killing more than 50 people. At the Country Music Association Awards, Chris Stapleton won for male vocalist, new artist and album of the year for "Traveller." Hollywood screenwriter Melissa Mathison ("E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial") died in Los Angeles at age 65.One year ago: The Trump administration said it had formally notified the United Nations that the United States had begun the process of pulling out of the 2015 Paris climate agreement. Iran broke further away from the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers by doubling the number of advanced centrifuges it operated. New York Police Commissioner James O'Neill, who'd been increasingly under fire amid a tug-of-war between reform advocates and police unions, announced his retirement. Former President Bill Clinton was among the speakers at the Detroit funeral of longtime U.S. Rep. John Conyers. Today's Birthdays: Actor Loretta Swit is 83. Rhythm-and-blues singer Harry Elston (Friends of Distinction) is 82. Blues singer Delbert McClinton is 80. Former first lady Laura Bush is 74. Actor Ivonne Coll is 73. Actor Markie Post is 70. Rock singer-musician Chris Difford (Squeeze) is 66. Country singer Kim Forester (The Forester Sisters) is 60. Actor-comedian Kathy Griffin is 60. Actor Ralph Macchio is 59. "Survivor" host Jeff Probst is 59. Saxophonist Tim Burton is 57. Actor Matthew McConaughey is 51. Rapper-producer Sean "Puffy" Combs is 51. Talk show host Bethenny Frankel is 50. Actor Anthony Ruivivar is 50. Soul/jazz singer Gregory Porter is 49. Rhythm-and-blues singer Shawn Rivera (Az Yet) is 49. Celebrity chef Curtis Stone is 45. Actor Heather Tom is 45. Rhythm-and-blues/gospel singer George Huff is 40. Actor Emme Rylan is 40. Actor Chris Greene (Film: "Loving") is 38.

Today in History -- Nov. 4

TOPEKA —Republican Tracey Mann will be the next congressman in Kansas’ 1st District, with The Associated Press calling the race at 9:25 p.m. By midnight, Mann was up 70.7% to Democrat Kali Barnett's 29.3%.

Mann, who lives in Salina, campaigned on removing coronavirus restrictions to boost the country’s struggling economy. He also said he would vote for a stimulus package that is limited and targets only specific industries.

The former lieutenant governor also wants to change the U.S.’ immigration system to help bring more workers to western Kansas but said that border control must be addressed first.

Mann said Republican congressional leaders have promised him a spot on the House Agriculture Committee.

“I want to roll up my sleeves and go to work to advocate for our farmers and ranchers in Washington,” Mann said. “It’s such a big economic impact for the Big First.”

The former real estate manager said his experience on his family farm and the knowledge he developed of agriculture as the lieutenant governor gave him the edge.

“The voters were trying to find someone who had that experience and background who was willing to go to Washington and stand up for us — and also for our basic, conservative Kansas values as well.”

The Big First came open when current U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall decided to run for Senate. Marshall has represented the 1st District since 2017.

Barnett, a Garden City music teacher, received about 32% of the vote.

By Kansas News ServiceTOPEKA —Republican Tracey Mann will be the next congressman in Kansas’ 1st District, with The Associated Press calling the race at 9:25 p.m. By midnight, Mann was up 70.7% to Democrat Kali Barnett's 29.3%.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTraceyMannKS%2Fvideos%2F365821894508356%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Mann, who lives in Salina, campaigned on removing coronavirus restrictions to boost the country’s struggling economy. He also said he would vote for a stimulus package that is limited and targets only specific industries.The former lieutenant governor also wants to change the U.S.’ immigration system to help bring more workers to western Kansas but said that border control must be addressed first.Mann said Republican congressional leaders have promised him a spot on the House Agriculture Committee.“I want to roll up my sleeves and go to work to advocate for our farmers and ranchers in Washington,” Mann said. “It’s such a big economic impact for the Big First.”The former real estate manager said his experience on his family farm and the knowledge he developed of agriculture as the lieutenant governor gave him the edge.“The voters were trying to find someone who had that experience and background who was willing to go to Washington and stand up for us — and also for our basic, conservative Kansas values as well.”The Big First came open when current U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall decided to run for Senate. Marshall has represented the 1st District since 2017.Barnett, a Garden City music teacher, received about 32% of the vote.

 🎥  Republican Tracey Mann wins Kan. 1st Congressional District

These positions are full time with benefits. The positions available are:

Check out these jobs! To apply for these positions, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>.

Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right of I-70 at exit 270 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas, and has been in business nationally since 1923.

Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588967511121.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>These positions are full time with benefits. The positions available are:· 1st Shift Candy Makers· 2nd Shift Candy Makers· 2nd Shift Service· 2nd Shift Packers· 2nd Shift Wrapping Lead· 2nd Shift Machine Operators· Box Supervisor· Utility Forklift DriverCheck out these jobs! To apply for these positions, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>.Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right of I-70 at exit 270 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas, and has been in business nationally since 1923.Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

Saline County General Election results

Saline County's mask mandate will remain in effect for at least another two weeks.

During their meeting this morning, Saline County Commissioners declined to rescind the mandate after discussing the county's COVID-19 condition with Jason Tiller, county health officer.

Tiller told commissioners that the county has had 238 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the past two weeks and more than 400 cases for the month of October. Tiller told commissioners that on Monday, the county recorded a high of 52 new confirmed cases. Forty-two of those were reported in the county's COVID-19 update. The remaining 10 came in after the update was issued, according to information from the county.

According to Tiller, a total of 11 staff are working six days a week on case investigation. Those staff are under an extreme amount of stress and often encounter unhappy individuals, which can make case investigation even more difficult to ensure that potential close contacts are identified and contacted, the county information noted.

The Kansas COVID-19 Vaccination Plan has been released and can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/DRAFT-COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version11-10162020">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/DRAFT-COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version11-10162020</a>.

The COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker <a href="https://covid19.trackvaccines.org/">https://covid19.trackvaccines.org/</a>.

In a related matter, commissioners approved an amended memo of agreement with the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation concerning its grant program using part of the county's Coronavirus Relief Funding.

The changes include decreasing the amount of lost revenue that a business had to meet from 25 percent to 15 percent and increasing the amount that the businesses are eligible for per employee from $2,500 to $5,000, which also increases the maximum a business can be awarded from $25,000 to $50,000, according to information from the county.  The modification is an effort to get more funds into the community before the Dec. 30 deadline. 

During the meeting, commissioners conducted the following business, according to information from the county.

●They approved a request from Tiller to appoint Dr. David Dupy as the first alternate and Dr. Robert Freelove as the second alternate county health officer to fill in when Tiller was not available.

●Commissioners also approved accepting a $4,500 grant to be used for radon education, re-calibrating two monitors, purchase short-term kits, and conduct activities during Radon Action Month. 

●Commissioners proclaimed today Election Worker Appreciation Day.

●Commissioners heard from Jennifer Fraser, deputy county treasurer, who provided the third quarter Idle Funds report. $68,795.31 was received in interest earnings in the third quarter, bringing the total to $331,084.74 so far in 2020.

●Commissioners heard Darren Fishel, road and bridge director, provide his bi-monthly update on activities performed by the department in September and October. One new generator and two re-used generators were set at the main shop building, engineering office, and traffic control building. One and a half miles of road were re-built in the Sundowner west area, 23 cross-road and entrance culverts were replaced, one mile of Cunningham Road between Schilling Road and Water Well Road was reshaped and graveled, six miles of edge wedge was placed on asphalt roads, 97 signs were repaired or replaced, and 4,065 ton of rock, 4,773 tons of AB-3, and 3,480 tons of sand were hauled. 

●Commissioners heard Justin Mader, county engineer, provide his update. Several projects were completed in 2020 including the paving of West Water Well Road between Burma Road and Lightville Road for a total cost of $690,019, replacement of a culvert on Salemsborg Road west of Holmes Road for $57,716, hot-mix asphalt overlays in several areas as well as bituminous chip seal. Mader told commissioners of the cost differences between the hot-mix asphalt overlay versus chip seals per mile resulting in a cost of $150,525/mile for the hot-mix asphalt and $21,774/mile for the chip seal. Several projects that are under contract still need to be complete including five reinforced box culvert replacements, pavement crack seal, and aggregate shouldering. These projects are slated to begin sometime in November. The Engineering Department continues to work on six potential FEMA mitigation projects that have the potential of bringing approximately $1 million in funds to Saline County to complete these and improve areas where flooding is prevalent.  Culvert inspections, plans for culvert replacements, bridge inspections, span bridge projects and reinforced box culvert projects, and continued road improvements are all in the works for 2021, Mader said.

Saline County's mask mandate will remain in effect for at least another two weeks.During their meeting this morning, Saline County Commissioners declined to rescind the mandate after discussing the county's COVID-19 condition with Jason Tiller, county health officer.Tiller told commissioners that the county has had 238 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the past two weeks and more than 400 cases for the month of October. Tiller told commissioners that on Monday, the county recorded a high of 52 new confirmed cases. Forty-two of those were reported in the county's COVID-19 update. The remaining 10 came in after the update was issued, according to information from the county.According to Tiller, a total of 11 staff are working six days a week on case investigation. Those staff are under an extreme amount of stress and often encounter unhappy individuals, which can make case investigation even more difficult to ensure that potential close contacts are identified and contacted, the county information noted.Tiller also provided two resources:The Kansas COVID-19 Vaccination Plan has been released and can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/DRAFT-COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version11-10162020">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/DRAFT-COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version11-10162020</a>.The COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker <a href="https://covid19.trackvaccines.org/">https://covid19.trackvaccines.org/</a>.In a related matter, commissioners approved an amended memo of agreement with the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation concerning its grant program using part of the county's Coronavirus Relief Funding.The changes include decreasing the amount of lost revenue that a business had to meet from 25 percent to 15 percent and increasing the amount that the businesses are eligible for per employee from $2,500 to $5,000, which also increases the maximum a business can be awarded from $25,000 to $50,000, according to information from the county. The modification is an effort to get more funds into the community before the Dec. 30 deadline. During the meeting, commissioners conducted the following business, according to information from the county.●They approved a request from Tiller to appoint Dr. David Dupy as the first alternate and Dr. Robert Freelove as the second alternate county health officer to fill in when Tiller was not available.●Commissioners also approved accepting a $4,500 grant to be used for radon education, re-calibrating two monitors, purchase short-term kits, and conduct activities during Radon Action Month. ●Commissioners proclaimed today Election Worker Appreciation Day.●Commissioners heard from Jennifer Fraser, deputy county treasurer, who provided the third quarter Idle Funds report. $68,795.31 was received in interest earnings in the third quarter, bringing the total to $331,084.74 so far in 2020.●Commissioners heard Darren Fishel, road and bridge director, provide his bi-monthly update on activities performed by the department in September and October. One new generator and two re-used generators were set at the main shop building, engineering office, and traffic control building. One and a half miles of road were re-built in the Sundowner west area, 23 cross-road and entrance culverts were replaced, one mile of Cunningham Road between Schilling Road and Water Well Road was reshaped and graveled, six miles of edge wedge was placed on asphalt roads, 97 signs were repaired or replaced, and 4,065 ton of rock, 4,773 tons of AB-3, and 3,480 tons of sand were hauled. ●Commissioners heard Justin Mader, county engineer, provide his update. Several projects were completed in 2020 including the paving of West Water Well Road between Burma Road and Lightville Road for a total cost of $690,019, replacement of a culvert on Salemsborg Road west of Holmes Road for $57,716, hot-mix asphalt overlays in several areas as well as bituminous chip seal. Mader told commissioners of the cost differences between the hot-mix asphalt overlay versus chip seals per mile resulting in a cost of $150,525/mile for the hot-mix asphalt and $21,774/mile for the chip seal. Several projects that are under contract still need to be complete including five reinforced box culvert replacements, pavement crack seal, and aggregate shouldering. These projects are slated to begin sometime in November. The Engineering Department continues to work on six potential FEMA mitigation projects that have the potential of bringing approximately $1 million in funds to Saline County to complete these and improve areas where flooding is prevalent. Culvert inspections, plans for culvert replacements, bridge inspections, span bridge projects and reinforced box culvert projects, and continued road improvements are all in the works for 2021, Mader said.

County leaves mask mandate in place as cases rise

A break-in at a construction trailer resulted in a $6,700 loss for a local company.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this afternoon that sometime between Friday and Monday, someone cut two padlocks off of a trailer belonging to Smoky Hill LLC while it was parked in the 600 block of Kenwood Park Drive. Items taken include the following, according to Forrester.

A red Honda portable generator valued at $3,500

A Ditchwitch electronic utility locator valued at $3,000

A break-in at a construction trailer resulted in a $6,700 loss for a local company.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this afternoon that sometime between Friday and Monday, someone cut two padlocks off of a trailer belonging to Smoky Hill LLC while it was parked in the 600 block of Kenwood Park Drive. Items taken include the following, according to Forrester.A red Honda portable generator valued at $3,500A Ditchwitch electronic utility locator valued at $3,000Miscellaneous tools valued at $150

Police investigating theft of items from construction trailer

TOPEKA, Kansas – An Ellsworth Correctional Facility (ECF) resident who died Monday, November 2 had tested positive for COVID-19, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

This is second resident death from ECF, and the ninth resident death related to COVID-19 for the department.

The resident was moved October 28 to the Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) COVID-19 Management Unit (CMU) after testing positive for the virus. He was transported from LCF to the hospital on October 29.

The resident was a 76-year-old while male with underlying medical concerns that contributed to his condition.&nbsp;

He was serving a 176 months sentence for two counts of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child and aggravated endangerment of a child.

TOPEKA, Kansas – An Ellsworth Correctional Facility (ECF) resident who died Monday, November 2 had tested positive for COVID-19, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.This is second resident death from ECF, and the ninth resident death related to COVID-19 for the department.The resident was moved October 28 to the Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) COVID-19 Management Unit (CMU) after testing positive for the virus. He was transported from LCF to the hospital on October 29.The resident was a 76-year-old while male with underlying medical concerns that contributed to his condition.&nbsp;He was serving a 176 months sentence for two counts of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child and aggravated endangerment of a child.

9th Kansas inmate dies after positive COVID -19 test

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But remember: You can't win if you don't play! Are you up to the challenge? Sign up for Anesthesia Associates'&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">Gridiron Glory</a>&nbsp;today!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599153961730.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Ron Heller of Abilene, the Week 8 winner in the Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Ron, who scored 11 out of 14, wins $100!The season has started, but with our great weekly prizes, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up and play Anesthesia Associates’ Gridiron Glory on&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/">SalinaPost.com</a>.Throughout the season, Anesthesia Associates' Gridiron Glory on Salina Post gives you the opportunity to win weekly prizes.&nbsp;In addition to the weekly prizes, you can accumulate points throughout the pro football season toward winning the local grand prize of $1,000 and a national grand prize of a trip to Hawaii!But remember: You can't win if you don't play! Are you up to the challenge? Sign up for Anesthesia Associates'&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapostprofootball.upickem.net/#/registration/login?aff=%7b2faf61b4-146b-4f58-9440-c720c50463d7%7d">Gridiron Glory</a>&nbsp;today!

Gridiron Glory: Congrats Ron Heller!

Salina Arts &amp; Humanities (SAH) today announced the official debut of a new River Festival website, at <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a>, in partnership with local businesses Mr. Freeland Design and WCCiT.

Found at the same, easy-to-remember URL, the new website offers longtime festival fans and newcomers these features:

●Colorful content, to give a vibrant picture of all the Festival offers.

●Easy, mobile-friendly navigation, to help fans and visitors find their Festival favorites or new things to love, before they come or once they’re in Salina or Oakdale Park.

●A trendy, intuitive design and a fast-and-fun user experience.

●Users can search for favorite artists or performers, types of food, art by medium, musicians by stage and more.

●Festival fans will be able to order Festival wristbands, T-shirts, GCs and more, in advance.

●Convenient links and forms, so artists, performers, and vendors can readily apply.

●Content designed to welcome Festival first-timers, cultural tourists, or business travelers not yet familiar with Salina, including links to key Visit Salina resources.

●All Festival-savvy social media available at your fingertips, as an extension of the easy-to-find riverfestival.com website.

●A fun way to invite out-of-town family &amp; friends to come to Salina to enjoy the Festival’s 45th-anniversary celebration in 2021.

“The updated website positively reflects the energy and beauty of the River Festival,” said Brad Anderson, SAH executive director. “I think long-time Festival attendees and first-time visitors will love the new look and feel that is offered.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604418849961.png" alt="Image courtesy <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Arts &amp; Humanities (SAH) today announced the official debut of a new River Festival website, at <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a>, in partnership with local businesses Mr. Freeland Design and WCCiT.Found at the same, easy-to-remember URL, the new website offers longtime festival fans and newcomers these features:●Colorful content, to give a vibrant picture of all the Festival offers.●Easy, mobile-friendly navigation, to help fans and visitors find their Festival favorites or new things to love, before they come or once they’re in Salina or Oakdale Park.●A trendy, intuitive design and a fast-and-fun user experience.●Users can search for favorite artists or performers, types of food, art by medium, musicians by stage and more.●Festival fans will be able to order Festival wristbands, T-shirts, GCs and more, in advance.●Convenient links and forms, so artists, performers, and vendors can readily apply.●Content designed to welcome Festival first-timers, cultural tourists, or business travelers not yet familiar with Salina, including links to key Visit Salina resources.●All Festival-savvy social media available at your fingertips, as an extension of the easy-to-find riverfestival.com website.●A fun way to invite out-of-town family &amp; friends to come to Salina to enjoy the Festival’s 45th-anniversary celebration in 2021.“The updated website positively reflects the energy and beauty of the River Festival,” said Brad Anderson, SAH executive director. “I think long-time Festival attendees and first-time visitors will love the new look and feel that is offered.”

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