There are jobs to be had. Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/jobs">Jobs page</a>&nbsp;on Salina Post.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

There are jobs to be had. Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/jobs">Jobs page</a>&nbsp;on Salina Post.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Are you looking for a job? Check this out!

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

Mark your calendars! The Saline County Back to School Fair is coming up later this month.

The fair is scheduled for noon-6 p.m. July 30 at Lakewood Middle School, according to information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalineBTSF/">Saline County Back to School Fair</a> Facebook page. Participants are asked to enter from Ohio and follow the signs.

To qualify for free basic school supplies, students must be a Saline County K-8 student and must qualify for free or reduced school lunches.

In addition to the free school supplies, the following will be conducted during the fair.

Mark your calendars! The Saline County Back to School Fair is coming up later this month.The fair is scheduled for noon-6 p.m. July 30 at Lakewood Middle School, according to information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalineBTSF/">Saline County Back to School Fair</a> Facebook page. Participants are asked to enter from Ohio and follow the signs.To qualify for free basic school supplies, students must be a Saline County K-8 student and must qualify for free or reduced school lunches.In addition to the free school supplies, the following will be conducted during the fair.Sports and school physicals, 4-6 p.m.Dental screenings, noon-6 p.m.COVID-19 vaccinations, noon-6 p.m.

Date set for Saline County Back to School Fair

Today is Tuesday, July 13, the 194th day of 2021. There are 171 days left in the year. 

On July 13, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson nominated Thurgood Marshall to be U.S. Solicitor General; Marshall became the first Black jurist appointed to the post. (Two years later, Johnson nominated Marshall to the U.S. Supreme Court.) 

In 1787, the Congress of the Confederation adopted the Northwest Ordinance, which established a government in the Northwest Territory, an area corresponding to the present-day Midwest and Upper Midwest. 

In 1863, deadly rioting against the Civil War military draft erupted in New York City. (The insurrection was put down three days later.) 

In 1886, Father Edward Joseph Flanagan, the founder of Boys Town, was born in County Roscommon, Ireland.

In 1939, Frank Sinatra made his first commercial recording, "From the Bottom of My Heart" and "Melancholy Mood," with Harry James and his Orchestra for the Brunswick label.

In 1972, George McGovern received the Democratic presidential nomination at the party's convention in Miami Beach.

In 1973, former presidential aide Alexander P. Butterfield revealed to Senate Watergate Committee staff members the existence of President Richard Nixon's secret White House taping system. (Butterfield's public revelation came three days later.) 

In 1974, the Senate Watergate Committee proposed sweeping reforms in an effort to prevent another Watergate scandal.

In 1985, "Live Aid," an international rock concert in London, Philadelphia, Moscow and Sydney, took place to raise money for Africa's starving people. 

In 1999, Angel Maturino Resendiz, suspected of being the "Railroad Killer," surrendered in El Paso, Texas. (Resendiz was executed in 2006.) 

In 2006, Israel imposed a naval blockade against Lebanon and blasted the Beirut airport and army air bases; Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets into Israel. 

In 2010, New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner died in Tampa, Florida, nine days after turning 80. 

In 2013, a jury in Sanford, Florida, cleared neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman of all charges in the shooting of Trayvon Martin, the Black teenager whose killing unleashed furious debate over racial profiling, self-defense and equal justice.

Ten years ago: California became the first state in the nation to add lessons about gays and lesbians to social studies classes in public schools under a measure signed by Gov. Jerry Brown. Three coordinated bombings in India's busy financial capital killed 26 people in the worst terror attack in the country since the 2008 Mumbai siege.

Five years ago: With emotions running raw, President Barack Obama met privately at the White House with elected officials, law enforcement leaders and members of the Black Lives Matter movement with the goal of getting them to work together to curb violence and build trust. Theresa May entered No. 10 Downing Street as Britain's new prime minister following a bittersweet exit by David Cameron, who resigned after voters rejected his appeal to stay in the European Union.

One year ago: California Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered bars and indoor dining shut down as the coronavirus swept the state with new ferocity; the shutdown also affected indoor religious services, gyms and hair and nail salons. School officials in Los Angeles and San Diego said they wouldn't bring students back to classrooms for the start of the new school year; New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said schools could open in areas where the coronavirus was under control. The Treasury Department said the federal government had incurred the biggest monthly budget deficit in history in June -- $864 billion – as spending to combat the coronavirus recession exploded, and job losses cut into tax revenues. Washington's NFL franchise dropped the "Redskins" name and Indian head logo amid pressure from sponsors; the move followed decades of criticism that the name and logo were offensive to Native Americans. (As new names were considered, the team would be known as the Washington Football Team.) The body of former "Glee" star Naya Rivera was found in Southern California's Lake Piru, five days after she went missing while boating with her 4-year-old son. (An autopsy confirmed that she died from accidental drowning.)

Today's Birthdays: Game show announcer Johnny Gilbert (TV: "Jeopardy!") is 93. Actor Patrick Stewart is 81. Actor Harrison Ford is 79. Singer-guitarist Roger McGuinn (The Byrds) is 79. Actor-comedian Cheech Marin is 75. Actor Daphne Maxwell Reid is 73. Actor Didi Conn is 70. Actor Gil Birmingham is 68. Singer Louise Mandrell is 67. Rock musician Mark "The Animal" Mendoza (Twisted Sister) is 65. Actor-director Cameron Crowe is 64. Former tennis player Anders Jarryd is 60. Comedian Tom Kenny is 59. Country singer-songwriter Victoria Shaw is 59. Bluegrass singer Rhonda Vincent is 59. Actor Kenny Johnson is 58. Roots singer/songwriter Paul Thorn is 57. Country singer Neil Thrasher is 56. Actor Ken Jeong is 52. Singer Deborah Cox is 48. Actor Ashley Scott is 44. Rock musician Will Champion (Coldplay) is 43. Actor Fran Kranz is 40. Actor Aya Cash is 39. St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina is 39. Actor Colton Haynes is 33. Actor Steven R. McQueen is 33. Soul singer Leon Bridges is 32. Actor Hayley Erin ("General Hospital") is 27. Actor Kyle Harrison Breitkopf is 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Tuesday, July 13, the 194th day of 2021. There are 171 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On July 13, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson nominated Thurgood Marshall to be U.S. Solicitor General; Marshall became the first Black jurist appointed to the post. (Two years later, Johnson nominated Marshall to the U.S. Supreme Court.) On this date: In 1787, the Congress of the Confederation adopted the Northwest Ordinance, which established a government in the Northwest Territory, an area corresponding to the present-day Midwest and Upper Midwest. In 1863, deadly rioting against the Civil War military draft erupted in New York City. (The insurrection was put down three days later.) In 1886, Father Edward Joseph Flanagan, the founder of Boys Town, was born in County Roscommon, Ireland.In 1939, Frank Sinatra made his first commercial recording, "From the Bottom of My Heart" and "Melancholy Mood," with Harry James and his Orchestra for the Brunswick label.In 1972, George McGovern received the Democratic presidential nomination at the party's convention in Miami Beach.In 1973, former presidential aide Alexander P. Butterfield revealed to Senate Watergate Committee staff members the existence of President Richard Nixon's secret White House taping system. (Butterfield's public revelation came three days later.) In 1974, the Senate Watergate Committee proposed sweeping reforms in an effort to prevent another Watergate scandal.In 1985, "Live Aid," an international rock concert in London, Philadelphia, Moscow and Sydney, took place to raise money for Africa's starving people. In 1999, Angel Maturino Resendiz, suspected of being the "Railroad Killer," surrendered in El Paso, Texas. (Resendiz was executed in 2006.) In 2006, Israel imposed a naval blockade against Lebanon and blasted the Beirut airport and army air bases; Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets into Israel. In 2010, New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner died in Tampa, Florida, nine days after turning 80. In 2013, a jury in Sanford, Florida, cleared neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman of all charges in the shooting of Trayvon Martin, the Black teenager whose killing unleashed furious debate over racial profiling, self-defense and equal justice.Ten years ago: California became the first state in the nation to add lessons about gays and lesbians to social studies classes in public schools under a measure signed by Gov. Jerry Brown. Three coordinated bombings in India's busy financial capital killed 26 people in the worst terror attack in the country since the 2008 Mumbai siege. Five years ago: With emotions running raw, President Barack Obama met privately at the White House with elected officials, law enforcement leaders and members of the Black Lives Matter movement with the goal of getting them to work together to curb violence and build trust. Theresa May entered No. 10 Downing Street as Britain's new prime minister following a bittersweet exit by David Cameron, who resigned after voters rejected his appeal to stay in the European Union.One year ago: California Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered bars and indoor dining shut down as the coronavirus swept the state with new ferocity; the shutdown also affected indoor religious services, gyms and hair and nail salons. School officials in Los Angeles and San Diego said they wouldn't bring students back to classrooms for the start of the new school year; New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said schools could open in areas where the coronavirus was under control. The Treasury Department said the federal government had incurred the biggest monthly budget deficit in history in June -- $864 billion – as spending to combat the coronavirus recession exploded, and job losses cut into tax revenues. Washington's NFL franchise dropped the "Redskins" name and Indian head logo amid pressure from sponsors; the move followed decades of criticism that the name and logo were offensive to Native Americans. (As new names were considered, the team would be known as the Washington Football Team.) The body of former "Glee" star Naya Rivera was found in Southern California's Lake Piru, five days after she went missing while boating with her 4-year-old son. (An autopsy confirmed that she died from accidental drowning.)Today's Birthdays: Game show announcer Johnny Gilbert (TV: "Jeopardy!") is 93. Actor Patrick Stewart is 81. Actor Harrison Ford is 79. Singer-guitarist Roger McGuinn (The Byrds) is 79. Actor-comedian Cheech Marin is 75. Actor Daphne Maxwell Reid is 73. Actor Didi Conn is 70. Actor Gil Birmingham is 68. Singer Louise Mandrell is 67. Rock musician Mark "The Animal" Mendoza (Twisted Sister) is 65. Actor-director Cameron Crowe is 64. Former tennis player Anders Jarryd is 60. Comedian Tom Kenny is 59. Country singer-songwriter Victoria Shaw is 59. Bluegrass singer Rhonda Vincent is 59. Actor Kenny Johnson is 58. Roots singer/songwriter Paul Thorn is 57. Country singer Neil Thrasher is 56. Actor Ken Jeong is 52. Singer Deborah Cox is 48. Actor Ashley Scott is 44. Rock musician Will Champion (Coldplay) is 43. Actor Fran Kranz is 40. Actor Aya Cash is 39. St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina is 39. Actor Colton Haynes is 33. Actor Steven R. McQueen is 33. Soul singer Leon Bridges is 32. Actor Hayley Erin ("General Hospital") is 27. Actor Kyle Harrison Breitkopf is 16.

Today in History - July 13

WINFIELD - Top scholars at Southwestern College in Winfield and at Southwestern College Professional Studies have been announced with the release of the Dean's Honor Roll for the spring 2021 semester. 

Full-time students who earned grade point averages of at least 3.70 (4.0 equals an A) were eligible for the honor.

Local and area students on the list include the following.

Hillsboro Breanna Dittert Lindsborg Alyssa Patrick Salina Kallie Albrecht Jessica Coleman Carly Redding&nbsp;&nbsp;

Southwestern College is a private liberal arts college, founded in 1885 by Methodists in south central Kansas. Today its Winfield campus is the residential hub that guides students to lives of meaning and service, with well-rounded academic and extra-curricular offerings attracting traditional-aged students from throughout the nation and world. Southwestern College Professional Studies provides options for online students in any location and has been named a top provider for persons serving in the military. The college continues to be affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

WINFIELD - Top scholars at Southwestern College in Winfield and at Southwestern College Professional Studies have been announced with the release of the Dean's Honor Roll for the spring 2021 semester. Full-time students who earned grade point averages of at least 3.70 (4.0 equals an A) were eligible for the honor.Local and area students on the list include the following.Hillsboro Breanna Dittert Lindsborg Alyssa Patrick Salina Kallie Albrecht Jessica Coleman Carly Redding&nbsp;&nbsp;Southwestern College is a private liberal arts college, founded in 1885 by Methodists in south central Kansas. Today its Winfield campus is the residential hub that guides students to lives of meaning and service, with well-rounded academic and extra-curricular offerings attracting traditional-aged students from throughout the nation and world. Southwestern College Professional Studies provides options for online students in any location and has been named a top provider for persons serving in the military. The college continues to be affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Local, area students named to Southwestern Dean's Honor Roll

The City of Salina has just issued the following new information concerning the transition to new waste carts.

The week leading up to automated waste collection, today through Friday, the waste cart contractor will only be delivering new waste carts to City of Salina sanitation customers, but will not be removing any old carts.

Beginning July 19, the waste cart contractor will be removing customers’ old City of Salina waste carts on their new waste collection day. We ask that customers set out their empty, old waste carts on their new collection day of each week until they have been removed by the contractor. Beginning July 19, any waste placed inside the old waste carts will not be collected by the City. When customers set out their old waste cart(s), they are asked to please place them three feet from their new waste cart(s).

The new sanitation collection map, available to view on the City of Salina sanitation website below, will take effect the first day of automated waste collection, July 19.

To view the new collection route map please visit <a href="http://salina.ks.us/filestorage/18394/18540/22597/Sanitation_Routes_-_Letter_Portrait_Blue_Box.pdf">salina.ks.us/filestorage/18394/18540/22597/Sanitation_Routes_-_Letter_Portrait_Blue_Box.pdf</a>

For more information please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/sanitation">salina-ks.gov/sanitation</a> or with further questions, contact the City of Salina General Services office at (785) 309-5750.

The City of Salina has just issued the following new information concerning the transition to new waste carts.The week leading up to automated waste collection, today through Friday, the waste cart contractor will only be delivering new waste carts to City of Salina sanitation customers, but will not be removing any old carts.Beginning July 19, the waste cart contractor will be removing customers’ old City of Salina waste carts on their new waste collection day. We ask that customers set out their empty, old waste carts on their new collection day of each week until they have been removed by the contractor. Beginning July 19, any waste placed inside the old waste carts will not be collected by the City. When customers set out their old waste cart(s), they are asked to please place them three feet from their new waste cart(s).The new sanitation collection map, available to view on the City of Salina sanitation website below, will take effect the first day of automated waste collection, July 19.To view the new collection route map please visit <a href="http://salina.ks.us/filestorage/18394/18540/22597/Sanitation_Routes_-_Letter_Portrait_Blue_Box.pdf">salina.ks.us/filestorage/18394/18540/22597/Sanitation_Routes_-_Letter_Portrait_Blue_Box.pdf</a>For more information please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/sanitation">salina-ks.gov/sanitation</a> or with further questions, contact the City of Salina General Services office at (785) 309-5750.

Here's the latest on the city's transition to new waste carts

You can’t fill the boots of a legend,&nbsp;but KWU alumnus Kiefer&nbsp;Storrer ’13&nbsp;is excited to try. &nbsp;

He was recently hired as Kansas Wesleyan’s head debate&nbsp;and&nbsp;forensics coach,&nbsp;where he&nbsp;will take the reins from longtime coach Gary Harmon.&nbsp;

“It’s hard for anyone to follow such a successful person, but I’m excited to do it.&nbsp;I know that I’m capable of doing it,”&nbsp;Storrer said. “This job has been the dream since I was 20 or 21 years old. Gary made the transition very easy.”&nbsp;

In the 16 years he was at KWU,&nbsp;Harmon established a robust program and recruited students such as Storrer. &nbsp;

“Kansas Wesleyan was the only college I applied to because my high school debate coach knew Harmon,&nbsp;and she suggested that I come here to continue my career,” Storrer said. “I really found a home with the debate and forensics team and a good sense of community at KWU in general.”&nbsp;

During his student years, Storrer racked up four individual wins, including top overall competitor at Louisiana State University-Shreveport in 2012 and&nbsp;second place in Parliamentary Debate at Christian Nationals in 2013. He was also part of the debate team that&nbsp;placed first overall at Christian Nationals in 2013.&nbsp;

Upon graduating with a bachelor’s in Communications, Storrer took a gap year to work. He&nbsp;then&nbsp;attended the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Mo., where he&nbsp;helped coach the debate team as he completed&nbsp;his master’s.&nbsp;During that time, he also served as a judge for some debate and forensics competitions hosted by KWU.&nbsp;

In the fall of 2016, he learned about a position at Glendale Community College in Glendale, Ariz.&nbsp;

“I had to decide over the course of a weekend if I wanted to move 18 hours down there,” he said. “My car died halfway through grad school, so&nbsp;I didn’t have a car at the time. My dad&nbsp;helped&nbsp;me move. We packed up his little Honda and drove 18 hours to Arizona.”&nbsp;

His first year was as assistant coach for the debate and forensics program.

After&nbsp;that&nbsp;year,&nbsp;he&nbsp;was promoted to head coach.&nbsp;

“It was good preparation for future coaching experiences,” Storer said.&nbsp;“I&nbsp;coached over 100&nbsp;students&nbsp;at&nbsp;the&nbsp;community college.”&nbsp;

For some students, debate and forensics was a new experience.&nbsp;

“I had only a few who had debated in high school,” Storrer said.&nbsp;“The rough thing at&nbsp;community college is&nbsp;that&nbsp;I&nbsp;rarely&nbsp;had&nbsp;students&nbsp;for the full&nbsp;two&nbsp;years. Even though we had them a short time,&nbsp;we had success and got a couple of national titles.”&nbsp;

Titles include coaching&nbsp;Glendale Community College’s first ever national champion in Parliamentary Debate at Phi Rho Pi (Community College) Nationals in 2018 and&nbsp;Glendale Community College’s first ever showcase performer at Pi Kappa Delta Nationals in 2019.

In&nbsp;2019,&nbsp;he&nbsp;received the Collie-Taylor Fellowship Award at Phi Rho Pi Nationals, an annual peer-run award showcasing coaching excellency and contributions to the forensics community.&nbsp;He was also elected to&nbsp;serve&nbsp;as the Phi Rho Pi Region III Governor from&nbsp;2018-20.&nbsp;

When COVID-19 struck,&nbsp;Glendale&nbsp;cut the coaching position&nbsp;and he returned to Kansas in July 2020. &nbsp;

“Barbara&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;jumped through hoops to make it possible&nbsp;for me to be an assistant coach and teach as an adjunct faculty member,” Storrer said.&nbsp;

He collaborated with Harmon for the team’s 2020-21 competition year, which was held exclusively online.&nbsp;

“We were massively successful last year,” Storrer said.&nbsp;“The students are talented, but we also embraced online forensics.&nbsp;

“We were able to come away with&nbsp;three&nbsp;national titles and multiple placings at nationals.&nbsp;We had success online, and it’s the prospect of going on road trips is exciting. It’s crazy to think how much better we’ll be in person.”&nbsp;

Continuing the culture is a priority as he embarks upon his first year as head coach.&nbsp;

“You can’t coach passion,”&nbsp;Storrer&nbsp;said. “We’re blessed with hard working students.&nbsp;There are other programs where a coach will write a whole speech for someone, and I’m so happy that’s not the culture of our team. We have college students who are young and thinking on their feet. They have something to say and have a story to share.&nbsp;Helping cultivate and facilitate each student’s voice is important to me.”&nbsp;

Storrer hit the ground running once hired as the head coach.&nbsp;

“I am communicating with students and they can work on events&nbsp;during&nbsp;the summer,” he said.

“I couldn’t do it without the students. They are very talented and driven.&nbsp;We have so much potential. The program will keep growing.”&nbsp;

At the community college level, Storrer said he didn’t have the opportunity to recruit students. &nbsp;

“I’m excited about recruitment. We have such a good recruitment (Admissions) office,” Storrer said. “It makes my job a lot easier to have those I know who are interested. I think&nbsp;recruitment&nbsp;is going strong and will be even stronger.”&nbsp;

While the 2020-21 academic year was his first&nbsp;at KWU, his influence in the classroom drew students such as junior Elizabeth Schaefer onto the team.&nbsp;

“For one part of an oral interpretation class, we are required to compete in a competition. I got first, so I thought, ‘Maybe I should try it again,’” said&nbsp;Schaefer, a junior majoring in theatre with a music minor. “I did forensics in high school and went to nationals my senior year. I promised myself I would stop there, but then I met&nbsp;Kiefer&nbsp;and he&nbsp;invited me to join the team.”&nbsp;

Schaefer placed&nbsp;third in dramatic interpretation and fourth in program of oral interpretation at the National Christian College&nbsp;Forensics&nbsp;Invitational&nbsp;and was a semifinalist in dramatic interpretation at the Pi&nbsp;Kappa&nbsp;Delta National Comprehensive Tournament.&nbsp;

“I love my team. We’re close to each other and support each other,” Schaefer said.&nbsp;

The family-like atmosphere is something Harmon said is&nbsp;essential.&nbsp;

“The quality of the team is going to be solid, and it was really important that we kept the nucleus that we’ve built over the last two years,” he said. &nbsp;

Storrer worked closely with Harmon as the assistant coach, and Harmon said&nbsp;he&nbsp;has earned the team’s respect.&nbsp;

“It’s relational.&nbsp;Kiefer&nbsp;was coming into my&nbsp;team, so he had to&nbsp;build&nbsp;a relationship with&nbsp;them&nbsp;— one they would trust and understand and know that he knew what he was talking about,” Harmon said. “By the end of the year, students were going to him to ask questions before they would come to me, which is where we wanted them to be.”&nbsp;

The Wesleyan team is young and strong, with a bright future.&nbsp;

“I think Harmon wanted to know he was leaving the program in good hands,” Storrer said. “I didn’t have to jump through a lot of hoops to&nbsp;establish that&nbsp;trust. I think he always believed in me.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626126624522.jpeg" alt="Kiefer Storrer. Photo courtesy KWU" />
 <figcaption>Kiefer Storrer. Photo courtesy KWU</figcaption>
 </figure>You can’t fill the boots of a legend,&nbsp;but KWU alumnus Kiefer&nbsp;Storrer ’13&nbsp;is excited to try. &nbsp;He was recently hired as Kansas Wesleyan’s head debate&nbsp;and&nbsp;forensics coach,&nbsp;where he&nbsp;will take the reins from longtime coach Gary Harmon.&nbsp;“It’s hard for anyone to follow such a successful person, but I’m excited to do it.&nbsp;I know that I’m capable of doing it,”&nbsp;Storrer said. “This job has been the dream since I was 20 or 21 years old. Gary made the transition very easy.”&nbsp;In the 16 years he was at KWU,&nbsp;Harmon established a robust program and recruited students such as Storrer. &nbsp;“Kansas Wesleyan was the only college I applied to because my high school debate coach knew Harmon,&nbsp;and she suggested that I come here to continue my career,” Storrer said. “I really found a home with the debate and forensics team and a good sense of community at KWU in general.”&nbsp;During his student years, Storrer racked up four individual wins, including top overall competitor at Louisiana State University-Shreveport in 2012 and&nbsp;second place in Parliamentary Debate at Christian Nationals in 2013. He was also part of the debate team that&nbsp;placed first overall at Christian Nationals in 2013.&nbsp;Upon graduating with a bachelor’s in Communications, Storrer took a gap year to work. He&nbsp;then&nbsp;attended the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Mo., where he&nbsp;helped coach the debate team as he completed&nbsp;his master’s.&nbsp;During that time, he also served as a judge for some debate and forensics competitions hosted by KWU.&nbsp;In the fall of 2016, he learned about a position at Glendale Community College in Glendale, Ariz.&nbsp;“I had to decide over the course of a weekend if I wanted to move 18 hours down there,” he said. “My car died halfway through grad school, so&nbsp;I didn’t have a car at the time. My dad&nbsp;helped&nbsp;me move. We packed up his little Honda and drove 18 hours to Arizona.”&nbsp;His first year was as assistant coach for the debate and forensics program.After&nbsp;that&nbsp;year,&nbsp;he&nbsp;was promoted to head coach.&nbsp;“It was good preparation for future coaching experiences,” Storer said.&nbsp;“I&nbsp;coached over 100&nbsp;students&nbsp;at&nbsp;the&nbsp;community college.”&nbsp;For some students, debate and forensics was a new experience.&nbsp;“I had only a few who had debated in high school,” Storrer said.&nbsp;“The rough thing at&nbsp;community college is&nbsp;that&nbsp;I&nbsp;rarely&nbsp;had&nbsp;students&nbsp;for the full&nbsp;two&nbsp;years. Even though we had them a short time,&nbsp;we had success and got a couple of national titles.”&nbsp;Titles include coaching&nbsp;Glendale Community College’s first ever national champion in Parliamentary Debate at Phi Rho Pi (Community College) Nationals in 2018 and&nbsp;Glendale Community College’s first ever showcase performer at Pi Kappa Delta Nationals in 2019.In&nbsp;2019,&nbsp;he&nbsp;received the Collie-Taylor Fellowship Award at Phi Rho Pi Nationals, an annual peer-run award showcasing coaching excellency and contributions to the forensics community.&nbsp;He was also elected to&nbsp;serve&nbsp;as the Phi Rho Pi Region III Governor from&nbsp;2018-20.&nbsp;When COVID-19 struck,&nbsp;Glendale&nbsp;cut the coaching position&nbsp;and he returned to Kansas in July 2020. &nbsp;“Barbara&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;jumped through hoops to make it possible&nbsp;for me to be an assistant coach and teach as an adjunct faculty member,” Storrer said.&nbsp;He collaborated with Harmon for the team’s 2020-21 competition year, which was held exclusively online.&nbsp;“We were massively successful last year,” Storrer said.&nbsp;“The students are talented, but we also embraced online forensics.&nbsp;“We were able to come away with&nbsp;three&nbsp;national titles and multiple placings at nationals.&nbsp;We had success online, and it’s the prospect of going on road trips is exciting. It’s crazy to think how much better we’ll be in person.”&nbsp;Continuing the culture is a priority as he embarks upon his first year as head coach.&nbsp;“You can’t coach passion,”&nbsp;Storrer&nbsp;said. “We’re blessed with hard working students.&nbsp;There are other programs where a coach will write a whole speech for someone, and I’m so happy that’s not the culture of our team. We have college students who are young and thinking on their feet. They have something to say and have a story to share.&nbsp;Helping cultivate and facilitate each student’s voice is important to me.”&nbsp;Storrer hit the ground running once hired as the head coach.&nbsp;“I am communicating with students and they can work on events&nbsp;during&nbsp;the summer,” he said.“I couldn’t do it without the students. They are very talented and driven.&nbsp;We have so much potential. The program will keep growing.”&nbsp;At the community college level, Storrer said he didn’t have the opportunity to recruit students. &nbsp;“I’m excited about recruitment. We have such a good recruitment (Admissions) office,” Storrer said. “It makes my job a lot easier to have those I know who are interested. I think&nbsp;recruitment&nbsp;is going strong and will be even stronger.”&nbsp;While the 2020-21 academic year was his first&nbsp;at KWU, his influence in the classroom drew students such as junior Elizabeth Schaefer onto the team.&nbsp;“For one part of an oral interpretation class, we are required to compete in a competition. I got first, so I thought, ‘Maybe I should try it again,’” said&nbsp;Schaefer, a junior majoring in theatre with a music minor. “I did forensics in high school and went to nationals my senior year. I promised myself I would stop there, but then I met&nbsp;Kiefer&nbsp;and he&nbsp;invited me to join the team.”&nbsp;Schaefer placed&nbsp;third in dramatic interpretation and fourth in program of oral interpretation at the National Christian College&nbsp;Forensics&nbsp;Invitational&nbsp;and was a semifinalist in dramatic interpretation at the Pi&nbsp;Kappa&nbsp;Delta National Comprehensive Tournament.&nbsp;“I love my team. We’re close to each other and support each other,” Schaefer said.&nbsp;The family-like atmosphere is something Harmon said is&nbsp;essential.&nbsp;“The quality of the team is going to be solid, and it was really important that we kept the nucleus that we’ve built over the last two years,” he said. &nbsp;Storrer worked closely with Harmon as the assistant coach, and Harmon said&nbsp;he&nbsp;has earned the team’s respect.&nbsp;“It’s relational.&nbsp;Kiefer&nbsp;was coming into my&nbsp;team, so he had to&nbsp;build&nbsp;a relationship with&nbsp;them&nbsp;— one they would trust and understand and know that he knew what he was talking about,” Harmon said. “By the end of the year, students were going to him to ask questions before they would come to me, which is where we wanted them to be.”&nbsp;The Wesleyan team is young and strong, with a bright future.&nbsp;“I think Harmon wanted to know he was leaving the program in good hands,” Storrer said. “I didn’t have to jump through a lot of hoops to&nbsp;establish that&nbsp;trust. I think he always believed in me.”&nbsp;

Storrer named head coach of KWU Debate and Forensics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jail design and funding, 2022 budget, COVID-19 update on county agenda

MINNEAPOLIS - The Delta variant of COVID-19 has been identified in Ottawa County cases. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OttawaCountyHealthAging/">Ottawa County Health Department</a> Facebook page:

MINNEAPOLIS - The Delta variant of COVID-19 has been identified in Ottawa County cases. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OttawaCountyHealthAging/">Ottawa County Health Department</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOttawaCountyHealthAging%2Fposts%2F4232606470138480&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="419" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Delta variant found in Ottawa County, health department says

Temperatures tonight will fall into the 60s, which is a bit below normal for mid July, according to the National Weather Sevice. 

Most areas will be dry tonight, but a few showers cannot be ruled out after midnight across south-central Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626137260122.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Temperatures tonight will fall into the 60s, which is a bit below normal for mid July, according to the National Weather Sevice. Most areas will be dry tonight, but a few showers cannot be ruled out after midnight across south-central Kansas.

NWS: Below normal temperatures Monday night

The Salina Fire Department this afternoon introduced four new recruits. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinafire/">Salina Fire</a> Facebook page:

The Salina Fire Department this afternoon introduced four new recruits. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinafire/">Salina Fire</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinafire%2Fphotos%2Fa.634668966630633%2F3905145912916239%2F&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="422" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Salina Fire Department introduces recruits

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A vehicle stolen at a local bar was later found ransacked on a nearby street.

Tiffany Lininger, 38, of Salina, told police that sometime between 11 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. Saturday, someone stole her black 2016 Dodge Journey, valued at $30,000, from where it was parked at the Hideaway, 540 Willis Avenue, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

Lininger told police that she had her keys and cellphone on a table at the bar, but when she went to leave, her keys were gone. She said she thought her friends were playing a trick on her, so she didn't report the loss of keys at the time, Forrester said.

When Lininger went back to the bar to retrieve her SUV on Saturday morning, it was gone. 

Forrester said the SUV was later found a block to the south in the 600 block of Maple Avenue. The SUV had been ransacked and a couple of dollars in change was missing, he said.

Police are reviewing surveillance video, he added.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA vehicle stolen at a local bar was later found ransacked on a nearby street.Tiffany Lininger, 38, of Salina, told police that sometime between 11 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. Saturday, someone stole her black 2016 Dodge Journey, valued at $30,000, from where it was parked at the Hideaway, 540 Willis Avenue, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.Lininger told police that she had her keys and cellphone on a table at the bar, but when she went to leave, her keys were gone. She said she thought her friends were playing a trick on her, so she didn't report the loss of keys at the time, Forrester said.When Lininger went back to the bar to retrieve her SUV on Saturday morning, it was gone. Forrester said the SUV was later found a block to the south in the 600 block of Maple Avenue. The SUV had been ransacked and a couple of dollars in change was missing, he said.Police are reviewing surveillance video, he added.

Vehicle stolen at bar later found ransacked nearby

Applications are now being accepted for the 27th Basic Citizens Academy class.

The Citizens Academy is a joint effort between the Saline County Sheriff's Office and the Salina Police Department. The Citizens Academy was developed to acquaint citizens with law enforcement practices and services. It also provides law enforcement personnel an opportunity to learn about the concerns and perceptions of community members.

Saline County Sheriff's Lieutenant Sean Kochanowski said this morning that applications will be accepted through July 30. The class is scheduled for Sept. 1 through Nov. 17.

Persons wishing to participate must be at least 21 years old, live or work in Saline County, have no felony convictions, and have no misdemeanor arrests within one year of applying to the Citizens Academy.

Applications can be picked up in the Saline County Sheriff's Office lobby or the Salina Police Department lobby. Additionally, applications can be printed from the sheriff's office <a href="https://www.salinesheriff.org/Community/Citizens-Academy">website</a>.

Class size will be no larger than approximately 30 people, Kochanowski said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostApplications are now being accepted for the 27th Basic Citizens Academy class.The Citizens Academy is a joint effort between the Saline County Sheriff's Office and the Salina Police Department. The Citizens Academy was developed to acquaint citizens with law enforcement practices and services. It also provides law enforcement personnel an opportunity to learn about the concerns and perceptions of community members.Saline County Sheriff's Lieutenant Sean Kochanowski said this morning that applications will be accepted through July 30. The class is scheduled for Sept. 1 through Nov. 17.Persons wishing to participate must be at least 21 years old, live or work in Saline County, have no felony convictions, and have no misdemeanor arrests within one year of applying to the Citizens Academy.Applications can be picked up in the Saline County Sheriff's Office lobby or the Salina Police Department lobby. Additionally, applications can be printed from the sheriff's office <a href="https://www.salinesheriff.org/Community/Citizens-Academy">website</a>.Class size will be no larger than approximately 30 people, Kochanowski said.

Citizens Academy applications now being accepted

Police are investigating a case as aggravated battery after a Salina man was found severely injured Friday.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were dispatched at 3:20 p.m. Friday to the Travelers Lodge, 254 S. Broadway Boulevard, for the report of a disorderly subject who refused to leave. 

A Travelers Lodge employee told police that he was walking by a fenced in area on the north side of the property and heard a man inside moaning. The employee said he could see someone through the wooden fence, which was locked.

When the employee got no response from the man, he called police and waited until officers arrived before he unlocked the fence.

When officers entered the area, they found a 33-year-old Salina man with severe injuries consistent to battery, Forrester said. The man also had a thin blue cable around his neck, Forrester added.

The man was transported to Salina Regional Health Center, where doctors confirmed that the man's injuries were consistent with him being dragged face down, Forrester said. The man was later transferred to a Wichita hospital.

Police are contacting area businesses and organizations to see whether surveillance video is available. Additionally, anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Salina Police Department, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating a case as aggravated battery after a Salina man was found severely injured Friday.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were dispatched at 3:20 p.m. Friday to the Travelers Lodge, 254 S. Broadway Boulevard, for the report of a disorderly subject who refused to leave. A Travelers Lodge employee told police that he was walking by a fenced in area on the north side of the property and heard a man inside moaning. The employee said he could see someone through the wooden fence, which was locked.When the employee got no response from the man, he called police and waited until officers arrived before he unlocked the fence.When officers entered the area, they found a 33-year-old Salina man with severe injuries consistent to battery, Forrester said. The man also had a thin blue cable around his neck, Forrester added.The man was transported to Salina Regional Health Center, where doctors confirmed that the man's injuries were consistent with him being dragged face down, Forrester said. The man was later transferred to a Wichita hospital.Police are contacting area businesses and organizations to see whether surveillance video is available. Additionally, anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Salina Police Department, Forrester said.

Severely injured Salina man found inside locked wooden fence

HOPE - A minor earthquake rattled part of Dickinson County Sunday evening.

According to the Kansas Geological Survey, a 2.0 magnitude quake struck northeast of Hope at 6 p.m. Sunday. The quake was centered west of Rain Road between 900 Avenue and 1000 Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626098594824.jpeg" alt="Map courtesy Kansas Geological Survey" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy Kansas Geological Survey</figcaption>
 </figure>HOPE - A minor earthquake rattled part of Dickinson County Sunday evening.According to the Kansas Geological Survey, a 2.0 magnitude quake struck northeast of Hope at 6 p.m. Sunday. The quake was centered west of Rain Road between 900 Avenue and 1000 Avenue.

Minor quake hits Dickinson County Sunday evening

The next Emergency Food Assistance Program commodities distribution is set for July 21.

The drive-through distribution, hosted by Sunrise Presbyterian Church, is scheduled for 9-10:30 a.m. July 21 at the 4-H Building in Kenwood Park. Participants are required to wear a face mask.

Items to be distributed include frozen pork loin, canned pork, pork patties, peanut butter, frozen peeled shrimp, frozen whole eggs, canned chicken, frozen chicken fillets, tortillas, butter, dried cranberries, frozen fish sticks, corn cereal, and apple sauce.

Those participating also are required to bring a Saline County Photo ID and proof of income. If you are picking commodities up for someone you will need a photo ID and written authorization from that person.

One person, $1,396. (Add $492 for each additional family member.)

By SALINA POSTThe next Emergency Food Assistance Program commodities distribution is set for July 21.The drive-through distribution, hosted by Sunrise Presbyterian Church, is scheduled for 9-10:30 a.m. July 21 at the 4-H Building in Kenwood Park. Participants are required to wear a face mask.Items to be distributed include frozen pork loin, canned pork, pork patties, peanut butter, frozen peeled shrimp, frozen whole eggs, canned chicken, frozen chicken fillets, tortillas, butter, dried cranberries, frozen fish sticks, corn cereal, and apple sauce.Those participating also are required to bring a Saline County Photo ID and proof of income. If you are picking commodities up for someone you will need a photo ID and written authorization from that person.New income guidelinesOne person, $1,396. (Add $492 for each additional family member.)

Next commodities distribution July 21

Kansas Wesleyan will welcome home many of its own Oct. 15–17, as the university hosts its traditionally annual Homecoming and Family Weekend. 

It will be KWU’s first Homecoming Weekend since 2019, due to the one-year absence necessitated by COVID-19. &nbsp;

While many of the traditional events return, there are several exciting additions to the schedule as well. KWU will dedicate a new optics lab in Peters Science Hall, named in honor of longtime professor Paul Stucky. Stucky’s son, Mark Stucky, a nationally-known test pilot and commercial astronaut for Virgin Galactic, will speak at a 2 p.m. event on Oct. 15. &nbsp;

Two of KWU’s most unique programs, eSports and Debate and Forensics, will also be represented during the weekend. Both will host showcase events, where visitors can see the teams participating in scrimmage-like competitions. Debate and Forensics will welcome visitors at 3 p.m. Oct. 15, while eSports will do so at 10:30 a.m. the following morning. &nbsp;

The traditional Golden W event returns as well, but it has been shifted into an evening event. All alumni are welcome for the Oct. 16 dinner that will see Golden W (’70 and ’71), Purple W (’95 and ’96) and alumni award winners honored. The music department will also be featured at the evening’s proceedings, which get underway at 6 p.m. at Salina’s Hilton Garden Inn.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Athletics will also be well represented, with a junior varsity women’s volleyball game, football taking on McPherson and men’s and women’s soccer both in action. The athletic Hall of Fame inductions will take place at a dinner event in Muir Gym Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. &nbsp;

Finally, the KWU Alumni Association will reveal a new space, dedicated to alumni award winners through the years. The area will be on Brown Mezzanine inside the Student Activities Center. The new space will be revealed at 9:15 a.m. Oct. 16. &nbsp;

For more information on Homecoming and Family Weekend, please contact Claire Houk, director of recruitment, alumni and parent engagement, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:claire.houk@kwu.edu" target="_blank">claire.houk@kwu.edu</a>. For the full 2021 Homecoming and Family Weekend schedule, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/homecoming2021" target="_blank">http://www.kwu.edu/homecoming2021</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Wesleyan will welcome home many of its own Oct. 15–17, as the university hosts its traditionally annual Homecoming and Family Weekend. It will be KWU’s first Homecoming Weekend since 2019, due to the one-year absence necessitated by COVID-19. &nbsp;While many of the traditional events return, there are several exciting additions to the schedule as well. KWU will dedicate a new optics lab in Peters Science Hall, named in honor of longtime professor Paul Stucky. Stucky’s son, Mark Stucky, a nationally-known test pilot and commercial astronaut for Virgin Galactic, will speak at a 2 p.m. event on Oct. 15. &nbsp;Two of KWU’s most unique programs, eSports and Debate and Forensics, will also be represented during the weekend. Both will host showcase events, where visitors can see the teams participating in scrimmage-like competitions. Debate and Forensics will welcome visitors at 3 p.m. Oct. 15, while eSports will do so at 10:30 a.m. the following morning. &nbsp;The traditional Golden W event returns as well, but it has been shifted into an evening event. All alumni are welcome for the Oct. 16 dinner that will see Golden W (’70 and ’71), Purple W (’95 and ’96) and alumni award winners honored. The music department will also be featured at the evening’s proceedings, which get underway at 6 p.m. at Salina’s Hilton Garden Inn.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Athletics will also be well represented, with a junior varsity women’s volleyball game, football taking on McPherson and men’s and women’s soccer both in action. The athletic Hall of Fame inductions will take place at a dinner event in Muir Gym Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. &nbsp;Finally, the KWU Alumni Association will reveal a new space, dedicated to alumni award winners through the years. The area will be on Brown Mezzanine inside the Student Activities Center. The new space will be revealed at 9:15 a.m. Oct. 16. &nbsp;For more information on Homecoming and Family Weekend, please contact Claire Houk, director of recruitment, alumni and parent engagement, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:claire.houk@kwu.edu" target="_blank">claire.houk@kwu.edu</a>. For the full 2021 Homecoming and Family Weekend schedule, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/homecoming2021" target="_blank">http://www.kwu.edu/homecoming2021</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KWU announces Homecoming and Family Weekend events

On July 5, 2021,&nbsp;The Lancet, a respected premier journal that publishes cutting-edge medical research, published “Science, not speculation, is essential to determine how SARS-CoV-2 reached humans.”&nbsp; The 24 authors are “physicians, veterinarians, epidemiologists, virologists, biologists, ecologists, and public health experts from around the world....” That includes eleven from top institutions in the United States (three from MA and one each from CO, TX, MD, NY, GA, CA, IA and OH), three each from the UK and Australia, two from the Netherlands, and one each from Germany, Spain, Malaysia, Italy and Hong Kong.

Back in February 19, 2020, they “...joined together to express solidarity with our professional colleagues in China.” As they have continued to research the newly recognized virus SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variations over time, they re-issued their statement with further emphasis: “...we reaffirm our expression of solidarity with those in China who confronted the outbreak then, and the many health professionals around the world who have since worked to exhaustion, and at personal risk, in the relentless and continuing battle against this virus. Our respect and gratitude have only grown with time.”

They continue: “The second intent of our original correspondence was to express our working view that SARS-CoV-2 most likely originated in nature and not in a laboratory, on the basis of early genetic analysis of the new virus and well established evidence from previous emerging infectious diseases, including the coronaviruses that cause the common cold as well as the original SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV.”

Citing recent research, they continue: “The critical question we must address now is, how did SARS-CoV-2 reach the human population? This is important because it is such insights that will drive what the world must urgently do to prevent another tragedy like COVID-19. We believe the strongest clue from new, credible, and peer-reviewed evidence in the scientific literature is that the virus evolved in nature, while suggestions of a laboratory-leak source of the pandemic remain without scientifically validated evidence that directly supports it in peer-reviewed scientific journals.”

“Careful and transparent collection of scientific information is essential to understand how the virus has spread and to develop strategies to mitigate the ongoing impact of COVID-19, whether it occurred wholly within nature or might somehow have reached the community via an alternative route, and prevent future pandemics. Allegations and conjecture are of no help, as they do not facilitate access to information and objective assessment of the pathway from a bat virus to a human pathogen that might help to prevent a future pandemic. Recrimination has not, and will not, encourage international cooperation and collaboration.”

“New viruses can emerge anywhere, so maintaining transparency and cooperation between scientists everywhere provides an essential early warning system. Cutting professional links and reducing data sharing will not make us safer. We also understand that it might take years of field and laboratory study to assemble and link the data essential to reach rational and objective conclusions, but that is what the global scientific community must strive to do.”

“It is time to turn down the heat of the rhetoric and turn up the light of scientific inquiry if we are to be better prepared to stem the next pandemic, whenever it comes and wherever it begins.... Having robust surveillance and detection systems in place across the globe is essential to detect and report new or evolving pathogens that can potentially unleash the next local or global threat, as required by the International Health Regulations. Equally essential will be ensuring that the field workforce, laboratory facilities, and the health-care community can all work under the safest conditions. Until this pandemic ends, we ask, as we did in February, 2020, for solidarity and rigorous scientific data.”

I will personally add that relying on espionage agents replaces science with politics. The claim of a torpedo attack in the Second Gulf of Tonkin incident led to an escalation of the Vietnam War—but there was no torpedo attack. “Intelligence” that Saddam Hussein was harboring weapons of mass destruction (nuclear and chemical weapons) was used to justify the Iraq war—but there were no such weapons.

Science is far more reliable. But science takes time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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 SCHROCKOn July 5, 2021,&nbsp;The Lancet, a respected premier journal that publishes cutting-edge medical research, published “Science, not speculation, is essential to determine how SARS-CoV-2 reached humans.”&nbsp; The 24 authors are “physicians, veterinarians, epidemiologists, virologists, biologists, ecologists, and public health experts from around the world....” That includes eleven from top institutions in the United States (three from MA and one each from CO, TX, MD, NY, GA, CA, IA and OH), three each from the UK and Australia, two from the Netherlands, and one each from Germany, Spain, Malaysia, Italy and Hong Kong. Back in February 19, 2020, they “...joined together to express solidarity with our professional colleagues in China.” As they have continued to research the newly recognized virus SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variations over time, they re-issued their statement with further emphasis: “...we reaffirm our expression of solidarity with those in China who confronted the outbreak then, and the many health professionals around the world who have since worked to exhaustion, and at personal risk, in the relentless and continuing battle against this virus. Our respect and gratitude have only grown with time.” They continue: “The second intent of our original correspondence was to express our working view that SARS-CoV-2 most likely originated in nature and not in a laboratory, on the basis of early genetic analysis of the new virus and well established evidence from previous emerging infectious diseases, including the coronaviruses that cause the common cold as well as the original SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV.” Citing recent research, they continue: “The critical question we must address now is, how did SARS-CoV-2 reach the human population? This is important because it is such insights that will drive what the world must urgently do to prevent another tragedy like COVID-19. We believe the strongest clue from new, credible, and peer-reviewed evidence in the scientific literature is that the virus evolved in nature, while suggestions of a laboratory-leak source of the pandemic remain without scientifically validated evidence that directly supports it in peer-reviewed scientific journals.” “Careful and transparent collection of scientific information is essential to understand how the virus has spread and to develop strategies to mitigate the ongoing impact of COVID-19, whether it occurred wholly within nature or might somehow have reached the community via an alternative route, and prevent future pandemics. Allegations and conjecture are of no help, as they do not facilitate access to information and objective assessment of the pathway from a bat virus to a human pathogen that might help to prevent a future pandemic. Recrimination has not, and will not, encourage international cooperation and collaboration.” “New viruses can emerge anywhere, so maintaining transparency and cooperation between scientists everywhere provides an essential early warning system. Cutting professional links and reducing data sharing will not make us safer. We also understand that it might take years of field and laboratory study to assemble and link the data essential to reach rational and objective conclusions, but that is what the global scientific community must strive to do.” “It is time to turn down the heat of the rhetoric and turn up the light of scientific inquiry if we are to be better prepared to stem the next pandemic, whenever it comes and wherever it begins.... Having robust surveillance and detection systems in place across the globe is essential to detect and report new or evolving pathogens that can potentially unleash the next local or global threat, as required by the International Health Regulations. Equally essential will be ensuring that the field workforce, laboratory facilities, and the health-care community can all work under the safest conditions. Until this pandemic ends, we ask, as we did in February, 2020, for solidarity and rigorous scientific data.” I will personally add that relying on espionage agents replaces science with politics. The claim of a torpedo attack in the Second Gulf of Tonkin incident led to an escalation of the Vietnam War—but there was no torpedo attack. “Intelligence” that Saddam Hussein was harboring weapons of mass destruction (nuclear and chemical weapons) was used to justify the Iraq war—but there were no such weapons. Science is far more reliable. But science takes time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ED FRONTLINES: Science, not spies, will determine COVID-19 origin

Today is Monday, July 12, the 193rd day of 2021. There are 172 days left in the year. 

On July 12, 1984, Democratic presidential candidate Walter F. Mondale announced his choice of U.S. Rep. Geraldine A. Ferraro of New York to be his running-mate; Ferraro was the first woman to run for vice president on a major-party ticket.

In 1812, United States forces led by Gen. William Hull entered Canada during the War of 1812 against Britain. (However, Hull retreated shortly thereafter to Detroit.)

In 1862, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln signed a bill authorizing the Army Medal of Honor. 

In 1909, the House of Representatives joined the Senate in passing the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, allowing for a federal income tax, and submitted it to the states. (It was declared ratified in February 1913.) 

In 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower was flown by helicopter from the White House to a secret mountaintop location as part of a drill involving a mock nuclear attack on Washington.

In 1960, the Etch A Sketch Magic Screen drawing toy, invented by French electrician Andre Cassagnes, was first produced by the Ohio Art Co. 

In 1962, The Rolling Stones played their first-ever gig at The Marquee in London. 

In 1965, the Beach Boys single "California Girls" was released by Capitol Records.

In 1967, rioting erupted in Newark, New Jersey, over the police beating of a Black taxi driver; 26 people were killed in the five days of violence that followed. 

In 1974, President Richard Nixon signed a measure creating the Congressional Budget Office. Former White House aide John Ehrlichman and three others were convicted of conspiring to violate the civil rights of Daniel Ellsberg's former psychiatrist. 

In 1991, a Japanese professor (Hitoshi Igarashi) who had translated Salman Rushdie's "The Satanic Verses" was found stabbed to death, nine days after the novel's Italian translator was attacked in Milan. 

In 1994, President Bill Clinton, visiting Germany, went to the eastern sector of Berlin, the first U.S. president to do so since Harry Truman. 

In 2003, the USS Ronald Reagan, the first carrier named for a living president, was commissioned in Norfolk, Va. 

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry, who'd lost his right hand grabbing a live grenade to save his comrades in Afghanistan. A memorial service for former first lady Betty Ford in Palm Desert, California, was attended by Michelle Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Rosalynn Carter and former President George W. Bush.

<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, July 12, the 193rd day of 2021. There are 172 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On July 12, 1984, Democratic presidential candidate Walter F. Mondale announced his choice of U.S. Rep. Geraldine A. Ferraro of New York to be his running-mate; Ferraro was the first woman to run for vice president on a major-party ticket.On this date: In 1812, United States forces led by Gen. William Hull entered Canada during the War of 1812 against Britain. (However, Hull retreated shortly thereafter to Detroit.)In 1862, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln signed a bill authorizing the Army Medal of Honor. In 1909, the House of Representatives joined the Senate in passing the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, allowing for a federal income tax, and submitted it to the states. (It was declared ratified in February 1913.) In 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower was flown by helicopter from the White House to a secret mountaintop location as part of a drill involving a mock nuclear attack on Washington.In 1960, the Etch A Sketch Magic Screen drawing toy, invented by French electrician Andre Cassagnes, was first produced by the Ohio Art Co. In 1962, The Rolling Stones played their first-ever gig at The Marquee in London. In 1965, the Beach Boys single "California Girls" was released by Capitol Records.In 1967, rioting erupted in Newark, New Jersey, over the police beating of a Black taxi driver; 26 people were killed in the five days of violence that followed. In 1974, President Richard Nixon signed a measure creating the Congressional Budget Office. Former White House aide John Ehrlichman and three others were convicted of conspiring to violate the civil rights of Daniel Ellsberg's former psychiatrist. In 1991, a Japanese professor (Hitoshi Igarashi) who had translated Salman Rushdie's "The Satanic Verses" was found stabbed to death, nine days after the novel's Italian translator was attacked in Milan. In 1994, President Bill Clinton, visiting Germany, went to the eastern sector of Berlin, the first U.S. president to do so since Harry Truman. In 2003, the USS Ronald Reagan, the first carrier named for a living president, was commissioned in Norfolk, Va. Ten years ago: President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry, who'd lost his right hand grabbing a live grenade to save his comrades in Afghanistan. A memorial service for former first lady Betty Ford in Palm Desert, California, was attended by Michelle Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Rosalynn Carter and former President George W. Bush. Five years ago: President Barack Obama visited Dallas, where five police officers were killed the previous week by a Black man seeking vengeance for police killings; Obama said a week of deeply troubling violence seemed to expose "the deepest fault lines of our democracy," but insisted the nation was not as divided as it seemed. With hugs and handshakes, Bernie Sanders endorsed Hillary Clinton for president during an appearance in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. One year ago: Florida set a national record with more than 15,500 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in a day. Twenty-one people suffered minor injuries in an explosion and fire aboard a Navy amphibious assault vessel, the USS Bonhomme Richard, at Naval Base San Diego; the fire would burn for more than four days. Actor Kelly Preston, whose films included "Jerry Maguire" and "Twins," died at 57 after a two-year battle with breast cancer; word of her death came from husband John Travolta.Today's Birthdays: Singer-musician Christine McVie is 78. Actor Denise Nicholas is 77. Singer-songwriter Butch Hancock is 76. Fitness guru Richard Simmons is 73. Singer Walter Egan is 73. Writer-producer Brian Grazer is 70. Actor Cheryl Ladd is 70. Gospel singer Ricky McKinnie is 69. Country singer Julie Miller is 65. Gospel singer Sandi Patty is 65. Actor Mel Harris is 65. Actor Buddy Foster is 64. Rock guitarist Dan Murphy (Soul Asylum) is 59. Actor Judi Evans is 57. Rock singer Robin Wilson (Gin Blossoms) is 56. Actor Lisa Nicole Carson is 52. Olympic gold medal figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi is 50. Country singer Shannon Lawson is 48. CBS newsman Jeff Glor is 46. Actor Anna Friel is 45. R&amp;B singer Tracie Spencer is 45. Actor Alison Wright is 45. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., is 45. Actor Steve Howey is 44. Actor Topher Grace is 43. Actor Michelle Rodriguez is 43. Actor Kristen Connolly is 41. Country singer-musician Kimberly Perry (The Band Perry) is 38. Actor Matt Cook (TV: "Man With a Plan") is 37. Actor Natalie Martinez is 37. Actor Bernard David Jones is 36. Actor Ta'Rhonda Jones is 33. Golfer Inbee Park is 33. Actor Melissa O'Neil is 33. Actor Rachel Brosnahan is 31. Actor Erik Per Sullivan is 30. Olympic gold medal gymnast Jordyn Wieber is 26. Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai is 24.