By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

The cause of death of a Salina man whose body was found in a central Salina backyard in July has been determined to be an accidental overdose.

In a news release this afternoon the Salina Police Department issued the following statement.

"The autopsy and toxicology findings have been received for Adam N. Guzman. Mr. Guzman’s cause of death is listed as an accidental overdose. The autopsy findings, toxicology report, and information from the case investigation have been provided to the Saline County Attorney, Jeff Ebel, and this case is now closed."

Guzman's body was found in the backyard of a residence in the 900 block of W. South Street on July 8.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostThe cause of death of a Salina man whose body was found in a central Salina backyard in July has been determined to be an accidental overdose.In a news release this afternoon the Salina Police Department issued the following statement."The autopsy and toxicology findings have been received for Adam N. Guzman. Mr. Guzman’s cause of death is listed as an accidental overdose. The autopsy findings, toxicology report, and information from the case investigation have been provided to the Saline County Attorney, Jeff Ebel, and this case is now closed."Guzman's body was found in the backyard of a residence in the 900 block of W. South Street on July 8.

Salina police: Cause of death determined in Guzman case

A local man with known felony warrants was apprehended by K-9 Tyrann after leading police on a chase through part of south Salina early Sunday.

Officers were sent to the Country Inn and Suites, 2760 S. Ninth Street at approximately 12:10 a.m. Sunday for the report of a disorderly subject.

An employee reported that someone named "Jayreece" was being disorderly. Officers believed the man to be Jayreece Jones, 26, of Salina, as they had dealt with him at the hotel previously, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

A Saline County Sheriff's deputy saw Jones walking in the 2800 block of S. Ninth Street. When the deputy attempted to talk with Jones, he fled eastbound across S. Ninth Street, through a field, and over a fence toward Highland Avenue, Forrester said.

A K-9 officer responded to the 2800 block of Highland and K-9 Tyrann began tracking for Jones, who was found hiding in some bushes on the south side of a residence on Highland Avenue.

Forrester said Jones refused to come out of the bushes so K-9 Tyrann was sent in to apprehend him.

Jones sustained superficial scratches from being bitten on his leg, Forrester said.

Jones was arrested on the two felony warrants from Saline County District Court - one for a probation violation and the other for a financial crime - and on a requested charge of felony obstruction, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA local man with known felony warrants was apprehended by K-9 Tyrann after leading police on a chase through part of south Salina early Sunday.Officers were sent to the Country Inn and Suites, 2760 S. Ninth Street at approximately 12:10 a.m. Sunday for the report of a disorderly subject.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664113194399.jpeg" alt="Jayreece Jones. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Jayreece Jones. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>An employee reported that someone named "Jayreece" was being disorderly. Officers believed the man to be Jayreece Jones, 26, of Salina, as they had dealt with him at the hotel previously, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.A Saline County Sheriff's deputy saw Jones walking in the 2800 block of S. Ninth Street. When the deputy attempted to talk with Jones, he fled eastbound across S. Ninth Street, through a field, and over a fence toward Highland Avenue, Forrester said.A K-9 officer responded to the 2800 block of Highland and K-9 Tyrann began tracking for Jones, who was found hiding in some bushes on the south side of a residence on Highland Avenue.Forrester said Jones refused to come out of the bushes so K-9 Tyrann was sent in to apprehend him.Jones sustained superficial scratches from being bitten on his leg, Forrester said.Jones was arrested on the two felony warrants from Saline County District Court - one for a probation violation and the other for a financial crime - and on a requested charge of felony obstruction, Forrester said.

K-9 Tyrann apprehends local man after chase in S. Salina

An electrical short is believed to be the cause of a fire in a camper being pulled in northwestern Saline County Saturday afternoon. That fire also is believed to have sparked a grassfire along the way.

James Pearson, 63, of Tescott, was pulling a 1979 Executive brand camper north on N. Brookville Road when the fire started. Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that the fire appears to have begun in the area of the water tank and pump. 

It is believed that the fire burned through the flooring and pieces dropped off and bounced off the roadway, setting the grass afire. Soldan said the grass fire was in the vicinity of the intersection with Lockard Road.

Pearson noticed the fire and was able to stop just north of W. Humbargar Road, Soldan said.

Firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 3 extinguished the blazes. 

Pearson was not injured and his pickup was not damaged, Soldan said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664209631151.jpeg" alt="The camper that caught fire in northwest Saline County Saturday. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The camper that caught fire in northwest Saline County Saturday. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostAn electrical short is believed to be the cause of a fire in a camper being pulled in northwestern Saline County Saturday afternoon. That fire also is believed to have sparked a grassfire along the way.James Pearson, 63, of Tescott, was pulling a 1979 Executive brand camper north on N. Brookville Road when the fire started. Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that the fire appears to have begun in the area of the water tank and pump. It is believed that the fire burned through the flooring and pieces dropped off and bounced off the roadway, setting the grass afire. Soldan said the grass fire was in the vicinity of the intersection with Lockard Road.Pearson noticed the fire and was able to stop just north of W. Humbargar Road, Soldan said.Firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 3 extinguished the blazes. Pearson was not injured and his pickup was not damaged, Soldan said.

Short sets camper ablaze; grass burns in NW Saline County

A Salina man was not injured early Sunday morning when his SUV was shot at while he was sitting inside.

At approximately 12:50 a.m. Sunday, the 37-year-old had just pulled into his driveway in the 800 block of Osage Avenue when two black Chevrolet Impalas turned west off of Broadway Boulevard onto Franklin Street. The two vehicles slowed down as they approached his residence. Then he heard what sounded to be a gunshot and the rear window of his 2007 GMC Yukon shattered, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

The man ducked down in the front seat of the vehicle as the shots continued to be fired.

Forrester said the first vehicle continued shooting as it turned south onto Osage Avenue. The second vehicle continued west on Franklin Street.

Officers located 23 spent shell casings from a .223 rifle. Numerous rounds struck the vehicle and some also struck the house, Forrester said. 

The 37-year-old's two daughters, ages 15 and 8, were inside the house but were not injured, Forrester said.

A 30-year-old Salina man who was visiting a neighbor, called police later to report that the bumper of his 2020 Audi had been shot. Forrester said the man had no connection to the 37-year-old. 

Damage to the bumper was estimated at $500. Damage to the 37-year-old man's house was estimated at $200, while damage to the Yukon was estimated at $1,000. Forrester said the Yukon was destroyed.

Police are checking for surveillance video in the area.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man was not injured early Sunday morning when his SUV was shot at while he was sitting inside.At approximately 12:50 a.m. Sunday, the 37-year-old had just pulled into his driveway in the 800 block of Osage Avenue when two black Chevrolet Impalas turned west off of Broadway Boulevard onto Franklin Street. The two vehicles slowed down as they approached his residence. Then he heard what sounded to be a gunshot and the rear window of his 2007 GMC Yukon shattered, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.The man ducked down in the front seat of the vehicle as the shots continued to be fired.Forrester said the first vehicle continued shooting as it turned south onto Osage Avenue. The second vehicle continued west on Franklin Street.Officers located 23 spent shell casings from a .223 rifle. Numerous rounds struck the vehicle and some also struck the house, Forrester said. The 37-year-old's two daughters, ages 15 and 8, were inside the house but were not injured, Forrester said.A 30-year-old Salina man who was visiting a neighbor, called police later to report that the bumper of his 2020 Audi had been shot. Forrester said the man had no connection to the 37-year-old. Damage to the bumper was estimated at $500. Damage to the 37-year-old man's house was estimated at $200, while damage to the Yukon was estimated at $1,000. Forrester said the Yukon was destroyed.Police are checking for surveillance video in the area.

Salina man shot at while parked in his driveway early Sunday

Two public hearings, housing, and an executive session are on the agenda for today's Salina City Commission meeting.

Study sessions and city commission meetings will take place in–person in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, and via Zoom until further notice. Meetings also can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.

The meeting also can be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID:892 7598 4587 when prompted.

If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hands so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.

Citizens also can send written comments or questions to city commissioners via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>.

In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.

The commission's regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.

Commissioners are scheduled to conduct two public hearings. One is on the Salina/Saline County Solid Waste Management Plan and the other is on the issuance of $5 million in Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds Series 2022 for the proposed Geoprobe expansion project.

Other items on the commission agenda for Monday include the following.

●Consider two proclamations for the ISIS Shrine. One would be in recognition of the 150th anniversary of Shriners International. The other in recognition of the 100th anniversary of Shriners Children's Hospital.

●Consider authorizing Amendment No.  1  to the  loan  agreement  between the Kansas  Department of Health and Environment and the City of Salina for the purpose of financing Markley/Magnolia Sewer System Improvements.

●Consider authorizing Amendment  No.  2  to  the  loan agreement  between  the  Kansas  Department of Health and Environment and the City of Salina for the purpose of financing the South Well Field and Water Treatment Plant Project.

●Consider approving a proposed ordinance on second   reading, levying Salina Business Improvement District No. 1 service fees for 2023.

●Consider approving a proposed ordinance authorizing the issuance of $270 million Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds Series 2022 for the SFC Global Supply Chain Project.

●Consider approving an ordinance on first reading, changing  the  zoning  classification of a 52.90 acre tract of land in the River Run Addition from A-1 (Agricultural) to PDD-R (Single-Family Residential)

●Consider approving a resolution concerning the Aero Plains Housing Development authorizing  the  preparation  and  submittal  of an  application  to  the  Kansas  Housing  Resources  Corporation  (KHRC)  for  the 2022  Kansas  Moderate  Income  Housing  (MIH)  grant  program  and  authorizing the  city  manager  to  execute  a  grant  agreement  and  associated  implementation and administrative documents should funds be awarded.

●Consider approving a resolution waiving the residential building fees associated  the  Building  Kansas,  LLC  Aero  Plains  Rural  Housing Incentive District (RHID).

Commissioners also are scheduled to meet in executive session to discuss  the  subject of  legal considerations  relating  to  the  Drever  Partners, LLC development  proposal  with  legal  counsel.

To see the full Salina City Commission meeting packet for Monday, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=497303&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

By SALINA POSTTwo public hearings, housing, and an executive session are on the agenda for today's Salina City Commission meeting.About the meetingStudy sessions and city commission meetings will take place in–person in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, and via Zoom until further notice. Meetings also can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.The meeting also can be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID:892 7598 4587 when prompted.If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hands so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.Citizens also can send written comments or questions to city commissioners via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>.In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.Regular meetingThe commission's regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.Commissioners are scheduled to conduct two public hearings. One is on the Salina/Saline County Solid Waste Management Plan and the other is on the issuance of $5 million in Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds Series 2022 for the proposed Geoprobe expansion project.Other items on the commission agenda for Monday include the following.●Consider two proclamations for the ISIS Shrine. One would be in recognition of the 150th anniversary of Shriners International. The other in recognition of the 100th anniversary of Shriners Children's Hospital.●Consider authorizing Amendment No. 1 to the loan agreement between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the City of Salina for the purpose of financing Markley/Magnolia Sewer System Improvements.●Consider authorizing Amendment No. 2 to the loan agreement between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the City of Salina for the purpose of financing the South Well Field and Water Treatment Plant Project.●Consider approving a proposed ordinance on second reading, levying Salina Business Improvement District No. 1 service fees for 2023.●Consider approving a proposed ordinance authorizing the issuance of $270 million Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds Series 2022 for the SFC Global Supply Chain Project.●Consider approving an ordinance on first reading, changing the zoning classification of a 52.90 acre tract of land in the River Run Addition from A-1 (Agricultural) to PDD-R (Single-Family Residential)●Consider approving a resolution concerning the Aero Plains Housing Development authorizing the preparation and submittal of an application to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) for the 2022 Kansas Moderate Income Housing (MIH) grant program and authorizing the city manager to execute a grant agreement and associated implementation and administrative documents should funds be awarded.●Consider approving a resolution waiving the residential building fees associated the Building Kansas, LLC Aero Plains Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID).Commissioners also are scheduled to meet in executive session to discuss the subject of legal considerations relating to the Drever Partners, LLC development proposal with legal counsel.To see the full Salina City Commission meeting packet for Monday, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=497303&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina&amp;cr=1">click here</a>.

Public hearings, housing among topics on City of Salina agenda

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;Aguirre, Juan Jeronimo; 32; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Hardcastle, Kristi Lynn; 43; Wichita CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body

NAME:&nbsp;Johnson, Jasmin DaShawn; 30; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

NAME:&nbsp;Pickering, Kendall Ray; 38; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO Contempt of Court; Direct Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor Failure to appear Failure to appear Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body Viol protection order; Abuse order

NAME:&nbsp;Starks, Michael Tyrone; 33; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting

NAME:&nbsp;Williams, Maurio Del Lavon; 39: Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Wilson, Kelli Noreen; 35; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Theft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 2 or more conv in 5yr

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208391629.jpeg" alt="Aguirre, Juan Jeronimo" />
 <figcaption>Aguirre, Juan Jeronimo</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Aguirre, Juan Jeronimo; 32; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208507322.jpeg" alt="Hardcastle, Kristi Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Hardcastle, Kristi Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hardcastle, Kristi Lynn; 43; Wichita CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208592328.jpeg" alt="Johnson, Jasmin DaShawn" />
 <figcaption>Johnson, Jasmin DaShawn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Johnson, Jasmin DaShawn; 30; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208652172.jpeg" alt="Pickering, Kendall Ray" />
 <figcaption>Pickering, Kendall Ray</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Pickering, Kendall Ray; 38; No city listed CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO Contempt of Court; Direct Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor Failure to appear Failure to appear Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body Viol protection order; Abuse order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208761410.jpeg" alt="Starks, Michael Tyrone" />
 <figcaption>Starks, Michael Tyrone</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Starks, Michael Tyrone; 33; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208835298.jpeg" alt="Williams, Maurio Del Lavon" />
 <figcaption>Williams, Maurio Del Lavon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Williams, Maurio Del Lavon; 39: Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664208911988.jpeg" alt="Wilson,Kelli Noreen" />
 <figcaption>Wilson,Kelli Noreen</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wilson, Kelli Noreen; 35; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Theft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 2 or more conv in 5yr

Saline County Booking Activity, Sept. 26

America’s rise to prominence following World War II was due to a massive increase in university attendance, heavily stimulated by the GI Bill. The return of war veterans, who had experienced the Great Depression in their childhood, along with the prior inflow of foreign academics who had fled persecution, led to a surge in college and university expansions. University enrolment in 1950 was seven times the proportion of college enrolment in 1900! This in turn resulted in a solid growth in the U.S. economy, expanded suburbs, and more subsequent Nobel Prizes. –But only for two generations.

Until the end of the 1970s, the American public saw public support of higher education to be a public good that “raised all boats.” In most states, the state provided over two dollars for every one dollar a student paid in tuition to public universities. But after the early 1980 Reagan era, public attitude&nbsp; gradually changed to view higher education as a “private good”: you generally make more money with a degree so you are the one who benefited and you should pay for it. Today, states underwrite far less funding and students contribute more in tuition for instructional costs.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

This movement toward treating students as customers is referred to as the “corporate model” of education and it has driven a decline in U.S. higher education further eroded by the “digital revolution.”

In “Declining by Degrees: Higher Education at Risk” edited by Richard H. Hersh and John Merrow, a series of specialists detail the demise of American universities. Deborah Wadsworth discusses the public shift from over three-fourths of our population valuing education in 1993 to only 18 percent providing a similar response in 2005. Focusing on cost alone, only 43 percent of Democrats and 28 percent of Republicans responded "yes" to a Business Insider poll on whether higher education was worth the cost. Our public concern for a well-educated next generation has waned.

Universities have turned to increasing programs popular with students, and ditching programs that are important for society, from foreign language to physics, based merely on student enrolments. We are seeing increases in marketing costs as well as fabricated data being submitted to the&nbsp;U.S. News &amp; World Report&nbsp;guidebook and rankings.

Dual credit high school courses have exploded, along with AP courses to substitute for introductory college courses. Initially justified as serving the few advanced students, they are now marketed to every student. But in most cases, high school teachers lack the academic depth and high school students lack the maturity. This “credit” is even more questionable in competency-based programs awarding credit for merely taking-a-test. Meanwhile, K–12 grade inflation and incompetent teaching have placed many universities in “the remedial education business.” With more students sent to college who are not college-able, this increases their cost of serving temporary students who have little likelihood of graduating.

Meanwhile, faculty evaluation has shifted to counting publications. In response, teaching responsibilities at larger universities have shifted to teaching assistants and they also have moved from small classes to large lecture courses, leading to our Academic Depression.

Our national focus on higher education as primarily job training is a serious concern and a marker of a society in decline. But it is also vital to "have a life" after coming home from "making a living." Generally, six-out-of-ten college students change their major at least once. Universities are the major place where they make decisions about their future vocation. That has often involved becoming converted to a realm of study due to an inspiring professor in face-to-face lecture or lab.&nbsp; Such professors change lives, and often follow their students’ careers after they graduate. But recent surveys show that barely one-out-of-five college students now experience such a mentor-professor. And such enthusiastic mentoring does not occur online, a delivery mode proven ineffective in these recent pandemic years.

We now live in an era where U.S. higher education enrolments are in serious decline.

Several decades ago, Kansas public universities had reasonable tuition while under state “corridor funding” that remained constant as long as enrolment did not vary dramatically. But when one Kansas university chancellor convinced the other universities and Board of Regents to let each university keep its tuition, the race-to-the-bottom was on! &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Heartbeat and credit card required. (And I suspect they might waive the heartbeat.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCKAmerica’s rise to prominence following World War II was due to a massive increase in university attendance, heavily stimulated by the GI Bill. The return of war veterans, who had experienced the Great Depression in their childhood, along with the prior inflow of foreign academics who had fled persecution, led to a surge in college and university expansions. University enrolment in 1950 was seven times the proportion of college enrolment in 1900! This in turn resulted in a solid growth in the U.S. economy, expanded suburbs, and more subsequent Nobel Prizes. –But only for two generations. Until the end of the 1970s, the American public saw public support of higher education to be a public good that “raised all boats.” In most states, the state provided over two dollars for every one dollar a student paid in tuition to public universities. But after the early 1980 Reagan era, public attitude&nbsp; gradually changed to view higher education as a “private good”: you generally make more money with a degree so you are the one who benefited and you should pay for it. Today, states underwrite far less funding and students contribute more in tuition for instructional costs.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; This movement toward treating students as customers is referred to as the “corporate model” of education and it has driven a decline in U.S. higher education further eroded by the “digital revolution.” In “Declining by Degrees: Higher Education at Risk” edited by Richard H. Hersh and John Merrow, a series of specialists detail the demise of American universities. Deborah Wadsworth discusses the public shift from over three-fourths of our population valuing education in 1993 to only 18 percent providing a similar response in 2005. Focusing on cost alone, only 43 percent of Democrats and 28 percent of Republicans responded "yes" to a Business Insider poll on whether higher education was worth the cost. Our public concern for a well-educated next generation has waned. Universities have turned to increasing programs popular with students, and ditching programs that are important for society, from foreign language to physics, based merely on student enrolments. We are seeing increases in marketing costs as well as fabricated data being submitted to the&nbsp;U.S. News &amp; World Report&nbsp;guidebook and rankings. Dual credit high school courses have exploded, along with AP courses to substitute for introductory college courses. Initially justified as serving the few advanced students, they are now marketed to every student. But in most cases, high school teachers lack the academic depth and high school students lack the maturity. This “credit” is even more questionable in competency-based programs awarding credit for merely taking-a-test. Meanwhile, K–12 grade inflation and incompetent teaching have placed many universities in “the remedial education business.” With more students sent to college who are not college-able, this increases their cost of serving temporary students who have little likelihood of graduating. Meanwhile, faculty evaluation has shifted to counting publications. In response, teaching responsibilities at larger universities have shifted to teaching assistants and they also have moved from small classes to large lecture courses, leading to our Academic Depression. Our national focus on higher education as primarily job training is a serious concern and a marker of a society in decline. But it is also vital to "have a life" after coming home from "making a living." Generally, six-out-of-ten college students change their major at least once. Universities are the major place where they make decisions about their future vocation. That has often involved becoming converted to a realm of study due to an inspiring professor in face-to-face lecture or lab.&nbsp; Such professors change lives, and often follow their students’ careers after they graduate. But recent surveys show that barely one-out-of-five college students now experience such a mentor-professor. And such enthusiastic mentoring does not occur online, a delivery mode proven ineffective in these recent pandemic years. We now live in an era where U.S. higher education enrolments are in serious decline. Several decades ago, Kansas public universities had reasonable tuition while under state “corridor funding” that remained constant as long as enrolment did not vary dramatically. But when one Kansas university chancellor convinced the other universities and Board of Regents to let each university keep its tuition, the race-to-the-bottom was on! &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Heartbeat and credit card required. (And I suspect they might waive the heartbeat.)&nbsp;&nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities during 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

ED. FRONTLINES: Corporatization of universities

Today is Monday, Sept. 26, the 269th day of 2022. There are 96 days left in the year.

On Sept. 26, 1960, the first-ever debate between presidential nominees took place as Democrat John F. Kennedy and Republican Richard M. Nixon faced off before a national TV audience from Chicago.

In 1777, British troops occupied Philadelphia during the American Revolution.

In 1888, poet T.S. Eliot was born in St. Louis, Missouri.

In 1954, the Japanese commercial ferry Toya Maru sank during a typhoon in the Tsugaru Strait, claiming more than 1,150 lives.

In 1986, William H. Rehnquist was sworn in as the 16th chief justice of the United States, while Antonin Scalia joined the Supreme Court as its 103rd member.

In 1990, the Motion Picture Association of America announced it had created a new rating, NC-17, to replace the X rating.

In 1991, four men and four women began a two-year stay inside a sealed-off structure in Oracle, Arizona, called Biosphere 2. (They emerged from Biosphere on this date in 1993.)

In 1996, President Clinton signed a bill ensuring two-day hospital stays for new mothers and their babies.

In 2003, President George W. Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a two-day summit at Camp David.

In 2005, Army Pfc. Lynndie England was convicted by a military jury in Fort Hood, Texas, on six of seven counts stemming from the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal. (England was sentenced to three years in prison; she ended up serving half that time.)

In 2008, Hollywood screen legend and philanthropist Paul Newman died in Westport, Connecticut, at age 83.

In 2016, Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton participated in their first debate of the presidential campaign at Hofstra University in New York; Clinton emphatically denounced Trump for keeping his personal tax returns and business dealings secret from voters while Trump repeatedly cast Clinton as a "typical politician."

In 2020, President Donald Trump nominated judge Amy Coney Barrett, a former clerk to the late Justice Antonin Scalia, to the Supreme Court, to fill the seat left vacant by the death of liberal icon Ruth Bader Ginsburg. (Barrett would be confirmed the following month, days before the November election.) More than 150 people gathered in the Rose Garden for Trump's introduction of Barrett; few in the crowd wore masks to protect against the coronavirus, and in the days that followed, a succession of attendees reported that they had contracted COVID-19.

Ten years ago:&nbsp; President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney both campaigned in the battleground state of Ohio. Egypt's new President Mohammed Morsi, making his debut on the global stage at the United Nations, said he would not rest until the civil war in Syria was brought to an end.

Five years ago: Republican Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee announced that he would not seek reelection. Former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore won the state's Republican primary for U.S. Senate, defeating incumbent Sen. Luther Strange, who'd been backed by President Donald Trump. (Moore would lose the December special election to Democrat Doug Jones.) Amid criticism that the federal response to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico was insufficient, the administration said it was sending a flotilla of ships and thousands more military personnel to the island to address the growing humanitarian crisis there. Saudi Arabia announced that women would be allowed to drive there for the first time, starting in the summer of 2018.

One year ago: The Rolling Stones launched their pandemic-delayed "No Filter" tour in St. Louis without their drummer of nearly six decades, Charlie Watts, who had died in August at age 80. "Moulin Rouge! The Musical," a jukebox adaptation of Baz Luhrmann's hyperactive 2001 movie, won the best new musical crown at the Tony Awards as Broadway looked back to honor shows that were shuttered by COVID-19; "The Inheritance" by Matthew Lopez was named the best new play. George Frayne, whose band Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen enjoyed a cult following in the 1970s with songs including "Hot Rod Lincoln," died at 77.

Today's Birthdays: Former baseball All-Star Bobby Shantz is 97. Country singer David Frizzell is 81. Actor Kent McCord is 80. Television host Anne Robinson is 78. Singer Bryan Ferry is 77. Actor Mary Beth Hurt is 76. Actor James Keane is 70. Rock singer-musician Cesar Rosas (Los Lobos) is 68. Country singer Carlene Carter is 67. Actor Linda Hamilton is 66. R&amp;B singer Cindy Herron (En Vogue) is 61. Actor Melissa Sue Anderson is 60. Actor Patrick Bristow is 60. Rock musician Al Pitrelli is 60. Singer Tracey Thorn (Everything But The Girl) is 60. TV personality Jillian Barberie is 56. Contemporary Christian guitarist Jody Davis (Newsboys) is 55. Actor Jim Caviezel is 54. Actor Tricia O'Kelley is 54. Actor Ben Shenkman is 54. Actor Melanie Paxson is 50. Singer Shawn Stockman (Boyz II Men) is 50. Music producer Dr. Luke is 49. Jazz musician Nicholas Payton is 49. Actor Mark Famiglietti is 43. Singer-actor Christina Milian is 41. Tennis player Serena Williams is 41. Actor Zoe Perry is 39. Singer/songwriter Ant Clemons is 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://Shutterstock.com">Shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://Shutterstock.com">Shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Monday, Sept. 26, the 269th day of 2022. There are 96 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Sept. 26, 1960, the first-ever debate between presidential nominees took place as Democrat John F. Kennedy and Republican Richard M. Nixon faced off before a national TV audience from Chicago.On this date:In 1777, British troops occupied Philadelphia during the American Revolution.In 1888, poet T.S. Eliot was born in St. Louis, Missouri.In 1954, the Japanese commercial ferry Toya Maru sank during a typhoon in the Tsugaru Strait, claiming more than 1,150 lives.In 1986, William H. Rehnquist was sworn in as the 16th chief justice of the United States, while Antonin Scalia joined the Supreme Court as its 103rd member.In 1990, the Motion Picture Association of America announced it had created a new rating, NC-17, to replace the X rating.In 1991, four men and four women began a two-year stay inside a sealed-off structure in Oracle, Arizona, called Biosphere 2. (They emerged from Biosphere on this date in 1993.)In 1996, President Clinton signed a bill ensuring two-day hospital stays for new mothers and their babies.In 2003, President George W. Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a two-day summit at Camp David.In 2005, Army Pfc. Lynndie England was convicted by a military jury in Fort Hood, Texas, on six of seven counts stemming from the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal. (England was sentenced to three years in prison; she ended up serving half that time.)In 2008, Hollywood screen legend and philanthropist Paul Newman died in Westport, Connecticut, at age 83.In 2016, Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton participated in their first debate of the presidential campaign at Hofstra University in New York; Clinton emphatically denounced Trump for keeping his personal tax returns and business dealings secret from voters while Trump repeatedly cast Clinton as a "typical politician."In 2020, President Donald Trump nominated judge Amy Coney Barrett, a former clerk to the late Justice Antonin Scalia, to the Supreme Court, to fill the seat left vacant by the death of liberal icon Ruth Bader Ginsburg. (Barrett would be confirmed the following month, days before the November election.) More than 150 people gathered in the Rose Garden for Trump's introduction of Barrett; few in the crowd wore masks to protect against the coronavirus, and in the days that followed, a succession of attendees reported that they had contracted COVID-19.Ten years ago:&nbsp; President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney both campaigned in the battleground state of Ohio. Egypt's new President Mohammed Morsi, making his debut on the global stage at the United Nations, said he would not rest until the civil war in Syria was brought to an end.Five years ago: Republican Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee announced that he would not seek reelection. Former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore won the state's Republican primary for U.S. Senate, defeating incumbent Sen. Luther Strange, who'd been backed by President Donald Trump. (Moore would lose the December special election to Democrat Doug Jones.) Amid criticism that the federal response to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico was insufficient, the administration said it was sending a flotilla of ships and thousands more military personnel to the island to address the growing humanitarian crisis there. Saudi Arabia announced that women would be allowed to drive there for the first time, starting in the summer of 2018.One year ago: The Rolling Stones launched their pandemic-delayed "No Filter" tour in St. Louis without their drummer of nearly six decades, Charlie Watts, who had died in August at age 80. "Moulin Rouge! The Musical," a jukebox adaptation of Baz Luhrmann's hyperactive 2001 movie, won the best new musical crown at the Tony Awards as Broadway looked back to honor shows that were shuttered by COVID-19; "The Inheritance" by Matthew Lopez was named the best new play. George Frayne, whose band Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen enjoyed a cult following in the 1970s with songs including "Hot Rod Lincoln," died at 77.Today's Birthdays: Former baseball All-Star Bobby Shantz is 97. Country singer David Frizzell is 81. Actor Kent McCord is 80. Television host Anne Robinson is 78. Singer Bryan Ferry is 77. Actor Mary Beth Hurt is 76. Actor James Keane is 70. Rock singer-musician Cesar Rosas (Los Lobos) is 68. Country singer Carlene Carter is 67. Actor Linda Hamilton is 66. R&amp;B singer Cindy Herron (En Vogue) is 61. Actor Melissa Sue Anderson is 60. Actor Patrick Bristow is 60. Rock musician Al Pitrelli is 60. Singer Tracey Thorn (Everything But The Girl) is 60. TV personality Jillian Barberie is 56. Contemporary Christian guitarist Jody Davis (Newsboys) is 55. Actor Jim Caviezel is 54. Actor Tricia O'Kelley is 54. Actor Ben Shenkman is 54. Actor Melanie Paxson is 50. Singer Shawn Stockman (Boyz II Men) is 50. Music producer Dr. Luke is 49. Jazz musician Nicholas Payton is 49. Actor Mark Famiglietti is 43. Singer-actor Christina Milian is 41. Tennis player Serena Williams is 41. Actor Zoe Perry is 39. Singer/songwriter Ant Clemons is 31.

Today in History - September 26

APAC Kansas, Incorporated, has been building the heartland from the ground up for more than a century.

From the supply of aggregate materials, hot mix asphalt, and concrete to the construction of roads and bridges, we do it all. You've seen our trucks and now, we want to hire you!

APAC-Salina is growing and we are hiring for all positions. From truck drivers to mechanics to construction laborers, APAC has your next career.

We offer great pay and benefits. APAC Kansas, Incorporated, is an equal opportunity employer.

<a href="https://jobs.crh.com/search/?searchby=location&amp;q=Shears&amp;locationsearch=Kansas">Click here to see available positions and apply</a>!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617672336149.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>APAC Kansas, Incorporated, has been building the heartland from the ground up for more than a century.From the supply of aggregate materials, hot mix asphalt, and concrete to the construction of roads and bridges, we do it all. You've seen our trucks and now, we want to hire you!APAC-Salina is growing and we are hiring for all positions. From truck drivers to mechanics to construction laborers, APAC has your next career.We offer great pay and benefits. APAC Kansas, Incorporated, is an equal opportunity employer.<a href="https://jobs.crh.com/search/?searchby=location&amp;q=Shears&amp;locationsearch=Kansas">Click here to see available positions and apply</a>!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Thousands of tires collected during North Salina Community Development event

Valerie Linenberger believes that no one should experience what her daughter, Morgan, experienced recently.

Morgan, 22, and her service dog, Tikiu, went to the Salina Public Library Sept. 17 so that Morgan could get some books. She and Tikiu left a short while later, forced out by a security guard who she noted did not have an accurate grasp of federal law concerning persons with disabilities and who so upset her that she began to cry as soon as she and Tikiu walked out the door. Because she was so shaken by the incident, Morgan, who is autistic, wrote out her comments rather than provide verbal responses to an interview with Salina Post.

"We walked into the library, no issues. But unbeknownst to me, a security guard had swooped in to follow me," Morgan wrote in her comments to Salina Post. "I was looking through the aisles for the books I had wanted, and he speed walked right in front of me. Tikiu did accidently hop up, seeing it as a greeting, but with a small correction, he settled back into a heel at my side."

At that point, the security guard asked Morgan whether Tikiu was an ADA-certified service dog. ADA refers to federal the Americans with Disabilities Act.

"And I tell him that yes, he is. And that there's no such thing as 'ADA-certified,' but that yes indeed he meets the federal requirements for a service dog as laid out by the ADA," Morgan wrote.

"He gets a bit snippy with me and says 'ADA certified service dogs don't jump,'" she continued. "I explained that that's true, but he's in training, was corrected for it, and he did not do it again."

Morgan and the security guard went back and forth concerning ADA and service dogs.

"I tell him Tikiu's tasks and that there's only two questions a business is allowed to ask, and he said, 'Well, to be ADA certified, we can ask more," Morgan wrote.

In fact, according to the Service Animals section of the ADA requirements, only limited inquiries are allowed.

"Staff may ask two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform. Staff cannot ask about the person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task," the <a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">ADA Service Animals section</a> notes.

Morgan continued, "At one point he said, 'You look nervous.' And I didn't have it in me to say 'I'm autistic, I stutter, and I wasn't prepared to be denied access going into a library, which is government funded and should be following federal law.' But I couldn't. I said that I haven't been in this situation before. Because truly, I haven't. I've been asked the two questions before (which I appreciate) but I do not appreciate someone misinformed about the laws trying to insist that I am wrong."

Morgan then asked whether there was a library official she could contact. 

"I told him, 'I understand that you've been told that things are one way, and you're doing what you're told, but what you've been told is not correct,'" Morgan wrote.

The guard left for a moment and returned with contact cards for the person in charge of library security and the library director. After accepting the cards, Morgan and Tikiu left the library.

"Some may say that I should have stood my ground and refused to leave. But I wasn't in the mood for more arguing. So, I told Tikiu to go forward, and he settled into a gentle, yet reassuring walk, and we left," she wrote.

"Once we went through the doors, the tears started to flow. I just wanted to enjoy the library like everyone else. I've been working like hell over the past year to be part of everyday life, just like everyone else gets to be. I just need Tikiu's help to do it. We are inseparable."

A discussion with the library director

Valerie Linenberger said that on Monday she "had a nice discussion" with Salina Public Library Director Melanie Hedgespeth, who assured her that Morgan and Tikiu were welcome in the library. She also talked with the library's security manager. Valarie said she garnered from the discussion that security personnel have been confronting all patrons with service dogs.

"I understand from Melanie they have had problems with people bringing pets into the library. I can appreciate trying to protect the environment for all patrons, however, profiling and confronting all disabled people with animals is illegal in addition to being morally wrong," Valerie told Salina Post.

When asked to comment on the incident, Hedgespeth responded, "The Library serves an important role in our community to help connect everyone with needed resources. We value serving our diverse community, and everyone is welcome at the Library. We regularly review the Library’s policies, procedures, and training to ensure compliance with the applicable laws, and we are reviewing Ms. Linenberger’s concerns to determine if additional training is needed."

Hedgespeth also provided a copy of the library's policy concerning patrons with service animals. The policy is as follows.

Service animals are welcome on library property.

● Service animals are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for persons with disabilities.

● The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual’s disability.

● Service animals must be on a leash or harness at all times, unless the use of a leash or harness interferes with the animal’s effective performance of its task.

● Service animals are limited to the animals defined under the ADA and does not include any other species of animals, wild or domestic, trained or untrained.

● The service animal’s handler is responsible for any damage to Library or personal property and any injuries to individuals caused by the service animal. Anyone using a service animal on Library property will hold the Library harmless and indemnify the Library from any such damages.

● Animals relied upon for crime deterrence or companionship are not service animals.

● Comfort or emotional support animals are not service animals and cannot be on Library property.

● No pets are permitted on Library property.

Library staff has the right to ask the animal’s handler:

● Is the animal required because of a disability?

● What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?

The Library retains discretion to exclude or remove a service animal from Library property if:

● The service animal is out of control and/or the service animal’s handler does not effectively control the service animal’s behavior.

● The service animal is not housebroken or creates an unsanitary condition.

● The service animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated by reasonable modifications.

● Permitting the service animal would fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program or activity.

Animals invited for special library sponsored programs are allowed on Library property.

Valerie said she and her daughter want to be instruments of change.

"We are more interested in rectifying the library's policies and procedures as opposed to filing a discrimination lawsuit with the DOJ. Disabled people need to feel welcomed and not targeted by any government office or business in Salina, Kansas," she noted.

Meanwhile, Morgan continues to deal with fallout from the incident.

"It hurts more than anything else to essentially be told, 'You're not allowed here,' by made-up rules that hold no weight federally. I have just been getting to a point where I go out more into the rest of the world, only to be shoved back inside of my box that I've been trying to escape my whole life," Morgan wrote.

"Because she's autistic, she has been ruminating over this whole situation, causing fears about going into other government offices and buildings. It doesn't make sense to neuro typical people, but it makes perfect sense to non-neuro typical people. Her whole life she's been excluded from activities, social gatherings, and now a government agency because of her special needs," Valerie told Salina Post.

"We have been working for years to get her to this current level of independence, and Saturday was a huge setback," Valerie continued. "I'm looking forward to hearing the change in policies and procedures to be more welcoming to disabled people in our community. Lest we forget, there are many more unseen disabilities than seen ones, and people with medical devices and service animals shouldn't be made to feel lesser by their reliance on these tools."

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostValerie Linenberger believes that no one should experience what her daughter, Morgan, experienced recently.Morgan, 22, and her service dog, Tikiu, went to the Salina Public Library Sept. 17 so that Morgan could get some books. She and Tikiu left a short while later, forced out by a security guard who she noted did not have an accurate grasp of federal law concerning persons with disabilities and who so upset her that she began to cry as soon as she and Tikiu walked out the door. Because she was so shaken by the incident, Morgan, who is autistic, wrote out her comments rather than provide verbal responses to an interview with Salina Post."We walked into the library, no issues. But unbeknownst to me, a security guard had swooped in to follow me," Morgan wrote in her comments to Salina Post. "I was looking through the aisles for the books I had wanted, and he speed walked right in front of me. Tikiu did accidently hop up, seeing it as a greeting, but with a small correction, he settled back into a heel at my side."At that point, the security guard asked Morgan whether Tikiu was an ADA-certified service dog. ADA refers to federal the Americans with Disabilities Act."And I tell him that yes, he is. And that there's no such thing as 'ADA-certified,' but that yes indeed he meets the federal requirements for a service dog as laid out by the ADA," Morgan wrote."He gets a bit snippy with me and says 'ADA certified service dogs don't jump,'" she continued. "I explained that that's true, but he's in training, was corrected for it, and he did not do it again."Morgan and the security guard went back and forth concerning ADA and service dogs."I tell him Tikiu's tasks and that there's only two questions a business is allowed to ask, and he said, 'Well, to be ADA certified, we can ask more," Morgan wrote.In fact, according to the Service Animals section of the ADA requirements, only limited inquiries are allowed."Staff may ask two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform. Staff cannot ask about the person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task," the <a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">ADA Service Animals section</a> notes.Morgan continued, "At one point he said, 'You look nervous.' And I didn't have it in me to say 'I'm autistic, I stutter, and I wasn't prepared to be denied access going into a library, which is government funded and should be following federal law.' But I couldn't. I said that I haven't been in this situation before. Because truly, I haven't. I've been asked the two questions before (which I appreciate) but I do not appreciate someone misinformed about the laws trying to insist that I am wrong."Morgan then asked whether there was a library official she could contact. "I told him, 'I understand that you've been told that things are one way, and you're doing what you're told, but what you've been told is not correct,'" Morgan wrote.The guard left for a moment and returned with contact cards for the person in charge of library security and the library director. After accepting the cards, Morgan and Tikiu left the library."Some may say that I should have stood my ground and refused to leave. But I wasn't in the mood for more arguing. So, I told Tikiu to go forward, and he settled into a gentle, yet reassuring walk, and we left," she wrote."Once we went through the doors, the tears started to flow. I just wanted to enjoy the library like everyone else. I've been working like hell over the past year to be part of everyday life, just like everyone else gets to be. I just need Tikiu's help to do it. We are inseparable."A discussion with the library directorValerie Linenberger said that on Monday she "had a nice discussion" with Salina Public Library Director Melanie Hedgespeth, who assured her that Morgan and Tikiu were welcome in the library. She also talked with the library's security manager. Valarie said she garnered from the discussion that security personnel have been confronting all patrons with service dogs."I understand from Melanie they have had problems with people bringing pets into the library. I can appreciate trying to protect the environment for all patrons, however, profiling and confronting all disabled people with animals is illegal in addition to being morally wrong," Valerie told Salina Post.When asked to comment on the incident, Hedgespeth responded, "The Library serves an important role in our community to help connect everyone with needed resources. We value serving our diverse community, and everyone is welcome at the Library. We regularly review the Library’s policies, procedures, and training to ensure compliance with the applicable laws, and we are reviewing Ms. Linenberger’s concerns to determine if additional training is needed."Hedgespeth also provided a copy of the library's policy concerning patrons with service animals. The policy is as follows.PATRON-005: SERVICE ANIMALSService animals are welcome on library property.● Service animals are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for persons with disabilities.● The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual’s disability.● Service animals must be on a leash or harness at all times, unless the use of a leash or harness interferes with the animal’s effective performance of its task.● Service animals are limited to the animals defined under the ADA and does not include any other species of animals, wild or domestic, trained or untrained.● The service animal’s handler is responsible for any damage to Library or personal property and any injuries to individuals caused by the service animal. Anyone using a service animal on Library property will hold the Library harmless and indemnify the Library from any such damages.● Animals relied upon for crime deterrence or companionship are not service animals.● Comfort or emotional support animals are not service animals and cannot be on Library property.● No pets are permitted on Library property.Library staff has the right to ask the animal’s handler:● Is the animal required because of a disability?● What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?The Library retains discretion to exclude or remove a service animal from Library property if:● The service animal is out of control and/or the service animal’s handler does not effectively control the service animal’s behavior.● The service animal is not housebroken or creates an unsanitary condition.● The service animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated by reasonable modifications.● Permitting the service animal would fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program or activity.Animals invited for special library sponsored programs are allowed on Library property.A need to feel welcomeValerie said she and her daughter want to be instruments of change."We are more interested in rectifying the library's policies and procedures as opposed to filing a discrimination lawsuit with the DOJ. Disabled people need to feel welcomed and not targeted by any government office or business in Salina, Kansas," she noted.Meanwhile, Morgan continues to deal with fallout from the incident."It hurts more than anything else to essentially be told, 'You're not allowed here,' by made-up rules that hold no weight federally. I have just been getting to a point where I go out more into the rest of the world, only to be shoved back inside of my box that I've been trying to escape my whole life," Morgan wrote."Because she's autistic, she has been ruminating over this whole situation, causing fears about going into other government offices and buildings. It doesn't make sense to neuro typical people, but it makes perfect sense to non-neuro typical people. Her whole life she's been excluded from activities, social gatherings, and now a government agency because of her special needs," Valerie told Salina Post."We have been working for years to get her to this current level of independence, and Saturday was a huge setback," Valerie continued. "I'm looking forward to hearing the change in policies and procedures to be more welcoming to disabled people in our community. Lest we forget, there are many more unseen disabilities than seen ones, and people with medical devices and service animals shouldn't be made to feel lesser by their reliance on these tools."

Salina women want adherence to ADA service dog rules

In 1973, multiple families of tornadoes, among them one violent F4 and three strong F3s, roared from around Lindsborg, through Salina, to 7 miles northeast of Beatrice, Neb. 

The combined length of all the tornado tracks was around 150 miles. 

The tornadoes caused around $6 million damage, killed one person, and injured 46. Towns that were hit particularly hard were Salina, Bennington, New Cambria, Linn, and Niles.

National Weather ServiceIn 1973, multiple families of tornadoes, among them one violent F4 and three strong F3s, roared from around Lindsborg, through Salina, to 7 miles northeast of Beatrice, Neb. The combined length of all the tornado tracks was around 150 miles. The tornadoes caused around $6 million damage, killed one person, and injured 46. Towns that were hit particularly hard were Salina, Bennington, New Cambria, Linn, and Niles.

THIS DAY IN WEATHER HISTORY: Tornadoes strike Salina area in 1973

CLAY CENTER - Clay County Medical Center is making changes to its MRI services. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/claycountymedicalcenter/">Clay County Medical Center Facebook page</a>:

Starting the week of September 26, there will be a Mobile MRI unit located in the Emergency Room parking lot of Clay County Medical Center (CCMC). The Mobile MRI unit will be located at CCMC for two months.

If you are in need emergency services, continue to enter at the current emergency room entrance location. Additional parking for the emergency room will be located in the parking lot to the west of CCMC.

This Mobile MRI unit is needed as CCMC removes our current 13 year old MRI unit, and renovates our current MRI Suite. We are excited to bring our patients a new wide bore Canon Vantage Orian MRI. Our new Canon MRI will have a wide bore to reduce claustrophobia, will be up to 80% quieter, and will reduce scan times by up to 50%. During renovation, we are also adding patient centric sky lights to the MRI Suite and MRI patient waiting room.

If you are scheduled for an MRI, please continue to enter through the main hospital entrance, and check in at Registration for your scheduled appointment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CLAY CENTER - Clay County Medical Center is making changes to its MRI services. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/claycountymedicalcenter/">Clay County Medical Center Facebook page</a>:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664116437601.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Starting the week of September 26, there will be a Mobile MRI unit located in the Emergency Room parking lot of Clay County Medical Center (CCMC). The Mobile MRI unit will be located at CCMC for two months.If you are in need emergency services, continue to enter at the current emergency room entrance location. Additional parking for the emergency room will be located in the parking lot to the west of CCMC.This Mobile MRI unit is needed as CCMC removes our current 13 year old MRI unit, and renovates our current MRI Suite. We are excited to bring our patients a new wide bore Canon Vantage Orian MRI. Our new Canon MRI will have a wide bore to reduce claustrophobia, will be up to 80% quieter, and will reduce scan times by up to 50%. During renovation, we are also adding patient centric sky lights to the MRI Suite and MRI patient waiting room. If you are scheduled for an MRI, please continue to enter through the main hospital entrance, and check in at Registration for your scheduled appointment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CCMC brings in mobile MRI unit as it renovates its MRI suite

September 2022 has been abnormally hot, especially with regards to high temperatures. 

Several high temperature records were set and a few locations saw the latest 100 degree temp they have seen in quite some time. In fact, Chanute, saw the latest 100 degree temp in their history!&nbsp;Salina had the eighth latest 100 degree temperature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664114713945.jpeg" alt="Map courtesy National weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy National weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceSeptember 2022 has been abnormally hot, especially with regards to high temperatures. Several high temperature records were set and a few locations saw the latest 100 degree temp they have seen in quite some time. In fact, Chanute, saw the latest 100 degree temp in their history!&nbsp;Salina had the eighth latest 100 degree temperature.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664114416795.jpeg" alt="Info courtesy National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Info courtesy National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664114597734.png" alt="Salina daily high temperature departure from normal" />
 <figcaption>Salina daily high temperature departure from normal</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Much of September abnormally hot in Kansas

NAME:&nbsp;Jones, Jayreece Tyrell; 26; Salina

Forgery; Distributing or issuing written instrument	

Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant	

Theft by deception;Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Palmer, James Edward; 58; Concordia

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant	

Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance	

NAME:&nbsp;Thomason, Jessica Louise; 38; no city listed

Computer unlawful acts; Access w/o auth &lt; $100K	

Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor	

Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500	

NAME:&nbsp;Trejo-Anchondo, Julio Leonel; 27; Salina

CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

NAME:&nbsp;Woods, Joseph Tomas; 25; Salina

CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664113194399.jpeg" alt="Jones, Jayreece Tyrell" />
 <figcaption>Jones, Jayreece Tyrell</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Jones, Jayreece Tyrell; 26; SalinaCHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Forgery; Distributing or issuing written instrument	Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant	Probation Violation	Probation Violation	Theft by deception;Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664113302764.jpeg" alt="Palmer, James Edward" />
 <figcaption>Palmer, James Edward</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Palmer, James Edward; 58; ConcordiaCHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant	Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance	Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664113447198.jpeg" alt="Thomason, Jessica Louise" />
 <figcaption>Thomason, Jessica Louise</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Thomason, Jessica Louise; 38; no city listedCHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Computer unlawful acts; Access w/o auth &lt; $100K	Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor	Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500	Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664113557771.jpeg" alt="Trejo-Anchondo, Julio Leonel" />
 <figcaption>Trejo-Anchondo, Julio Leonel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Trejo-Anchondo, Julio Leonel; 27; SalinaCHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664113661913.jpeg" alt="Woods, Joseph Tomas" />
 <figcaption>Woods, Joseph Tomas</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Woods, Joseph Tomas; 25; SalinaCHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Booking Activity, Sept. 25

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina launched two new mentoring programs, Beyond School Walls and Corporate Bigs.

BBBS-SalinaBig Brothers Big Sisters of Salina launched two new mentoring programs, Beyond School Walls and Corporate Bigs.Beyond School Walls is a program aimed at developing the next generation of employees through one-to-one mentoring relationships. The program, which is part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s national initiative, launched Sept. 8 in partnership with Vortex and Salina Public Schools.Around the globe, approximately 40 percent of employers find it difficult to recruit people with the skills they need for their businesses (The Learning Generation: Investing in Education for a Changing World, 2016). Mentoring can be an integral part of the solution in both better preparing youth for high-demand careers and offering employers a means of engaging and retaining their talented staff.The program addresses the challenges of preparing youth for post-high school success. Typically, students (called ‘Little Brothers’ or ‘Little Sisters’) from a local high school, spend time with their mentor (called a ‘Big Brother’ or ‘Big Sister’) onsite at the offices of a local business. The Littles have an opportunity to visit a professional workplace setting, and learn about different career opportunities, from financial literacy to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), while developing meaningful relationships with the employee “Big.”“Vortex is excited to be a part of the Beyond School Walls program,” said Tom Blythe, vice president of HR &amp; organizational development. “Currently we have 6 shop leaders enrolled in the program as Bigs. This is a unique mentoring opportunity to show our future generation that a technical career can be a rewarding career path.”“Our company strives to be community based,” said Travis Young, president of Vortex. “We encourage our employees to volunteer time, resources, and talents back into the community that shapes our everyday lives. Volunteering as a Big is just as fulfilling for us on a personal level as it is for these young adults.”Corporate Bigs is a program aimed to create impactful, positive friendships that help children build greater self-confidence and reach their potential, while engaging with a child in their school environment. The program launched Sept. 7 in partnership with Bennington State Bank and Salina Public Schools.As a Corporate Big, Bennington State Bank employees (called a ‘Big Brother’ or ‘Big Sister’) are matched one-to-one to a child (called ‘Little Brothers’ or ‘Little Sisters’) from a local elementary school and spend time together, once per week, at school.Throughout the school year, these Bigs and Littles will spend one-to-one time together during a day that best fits their schedule. It allows Bigs and Littles individualized time and attention on a consistent basis, with the venue being the child’s school.Matches in the Corporate Bigs program eat lunch together, have fun at recess, assist with school work, or just catch up all while building a positive friendship.“The Bennington State Bank is passionate about giving back to our communities and we are honored and proud to be part of the Corporate Bigs program that gives our team the opportunity to invest in a child’s future and make a positive impact in the community,” said Carolyn Sichley, marketing officer, Bennington State Bank. “The team at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina is incredible and goes out of their way to make a difference in kids’ lives, and the Corporate Big program is another impactful way that they help to create connections and change a child’s life through corporate teams who are passionate about community involvement.”“Now more than ever, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina is finding innovative ways to serve young people and strengthen our community,” said Amanda Otto, CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina. “With the support of partners like Vortex, Bennington State Bank and Salina Public Schools, we can drive more meaningful impact at a time when young people need us most.”Former Salina Public Schools Director of Student Support Services Tiffany Lowe facilitated early conversations last spring with Big Brother Big Sisters of Salina in getting this exemplary mentor program off the ground. She left this position last spring after being appointed as an assistant principal at Salina Central High School. Jody Craddock-Iselin was appointed as the new director of student support services and helped continue the planning efforts for the 22-23 school year. Salina Public Schools is willing to create more partnerships similar to this one with local businesses and industries who are willing to facilitate mentoring, job-shadowing, internships, and work-based experiences for area students. The district is inviting the community, businesses, industry, parents, students, and educators to the upcoming 2nd Annual Building Bridges Event from 5:15-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3 at Salina Central High School to collaborate and discuss future possibilities. Those wishing to participate are encouraged to RSVP at <a href="https://tinyurl.com/3u9cc22k">https://tinyurl.com/3u9cc22k</a>.At Beyond School Walls and Corporate Bigs’ sites across the nation, young people enrolled in the program report improved grades and peer relationships – mirroring the positive youth outcomes synonymous with Big Brothers Big Sisters’ community-based mentoring program. Beyond School Walls and Corporate Bigs makes mentoring accessible to employees with busy schedules by bringing the volunteer experience to their place of work or to the child’s school.Companies have found that the mentoring program can improve morale for employees; studies show volunteerism can reduce the high costs associated with employee turnover by 39% (Source: Youth Truth Survey, 2016).To learn how your company can get involved in a workplace mentoring program for the 2023-2024 school year, contact Amanda Otto at <a href="mailto:amandao@bbbssalina.org">amandao@bbbssalina.org</a> or 785-825-5509.About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina Since 1968, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. As a donor and volunteer supported mentoring organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 5 through 17, throughout Saline County. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Through partnerships with local schools, businesses, parents and guardians, volunteers, and others in the community, we are accountable for each child in our program achieving extremely important qualities: increased confidence, improved social skills, avoidance of risky behaviors, and academic success.

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