A pickup stolen from just west of north Salina was found burning west of the city Friday night.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies and firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 3 were sent to the 400 block of South Muir Road at 10:25 p.m. Friday for the report of a vehicle on fire. A resident who lived nearby noticed the fire while he was on his way home and notified authorities, he said.

When emergency personnel arrived, they found a 2012 Dodge pickup fully engulfed in flames, he said. The pickup belonging to William Davis, of Salina, was valued at $25,000, Soldan added.

According to Soldan, the pickup was last seen at 7 a.m. Friday when it was parked in a lot in the 1500 block of West North Street. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595258781264.jpeg" alt="A firefighter with Rural Fire District No. 3 extinguishes the pickup fire. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter with Rural Fire District No. 3 extinguishes the pickup fire. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A pickup stolen from just west of north Salina was found burning west of the city Friday night.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies and firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 3 were sent to the 400 block of South Muir Road at 10:25 p.m. Friday for the report of a vehicle on fire. A resident who lived nearby noticed the fire while he was on his way home and notified authorities, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595258733306.jpeg" alt="The pickup was fully engulfed in flames when emergency personnel arrived." />
 <figcaption>The pickup was fully engulfed in flames when emergency personnel arrived.</figcaption>
 </figure>When emergency personnel arrived, they found a 2012 Dodge pickup fully engulfed in flames, he said. The pickup belonging to William Davis, of Salina, was valued at $25,000, Soldan added.According to Soldan, the pickup was last seen at 7 a.m. Friday when it was parked in a lot in the 1500 block of West North Street.

Stolen pickup found fully engulfed in flames west of Salina

My university colleagues in China, except for three localities, have gone back to full regular classes. They usually have two months of summer vacation, but this year it will only be three weeks. They extended the spring semester into July and will begin fall semester a week early in order to catch up. &nbsp;

Face-to-face schools are also resuming in Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, New Zealand and Germany. Why is the rest of the world still tackling COVID-19?

A combination of three reasons has allowed them to return to some normalcy.

Nearly everyone in Asia carries a smartphone. This allowed them to use a smartphone app that everyone downloaded. It is used for instantaneous contact tracing. Each person’s phone detects and keeps the phone ID of any other person’s phone that comes within six feet. When a person is diagnosed with COVID-19, their phone can immediately notify all those who had been in that close proximity in the last five days to quarantine. It also color-codes those person’s phone with red (positive = strict quarantine), yellow (came near an infected person so go home and self isolate) and green (healthy).

This was most strictly enforced in Taiwan but works well in the other Confucian-heritage Asian countries. That is because the second factor is their strong feelings of responsibility that each person feels for others around them and especially for family and classmates.&nbsp; The golden rule proclaiming that “you should act towards others as you would want them to act toward you” was first stated over 500 years BC by Confucius and continues as a cultural value despite the various political systems involved. This also includes greater respect for the elderly and respect for teachers. Therefore we see Asian languages interpreting what we call “rights” as what their languages call “responsibilities.” They are also crowded countries with three to five times more people per area than in the U.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; They are “interdependent.”

Does that mean that on average, Asian cultures care more about others than Western cultures do. Well, yes. That is proven by how willing their populations are to shelter-in-place once a danger was understood. This was particularly true in the first two months when there were not yet tests and the smartphone app was not yet available. When our Western press interviews in Asia, they fail to comprehend the replies they receive from medical personnel about how Asians are more concerned about others and more willing to quarantine. They have been wearing face masks for decades out of concern for others around them.

But New Zealand and Germany are different. There is a larger Asian population in New Zealand than in North America or Europe, but it is not the majority. Yet, being a relatively small nation, it did succeed in a strict lockdown that eliminated cases. Now their problem is preventing the import of new cases, a problem China still faces.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

However, Germany lacks the Confucian ethic and yet has done very well controlling this pandemic. Here the third critical factor is science education. For generations, Germans have received the most advanced education on human anatomy and physiology, plus disease microbiology, in public school. Therefore, the average citizen can self-refer themselves to a medical specialist when they feel ill. Germany has a scientist at the head of their government and a population that knows three times more science than Americans.

Therefore we now have Asian countries watching the international news, observing the disasters in America and Brazil and asking “Don’t they care about their fellow citizens, and especially their medical workers?”&nbsp; And we have Germany watching our news and asking “Don’t they understand science?”

By our group actions, we show that indeed a critical mass of Americans are science illiterate. We will await a vaccine as our cure-all. Except there is a problem there also. Second only to the Taliban, Americans have the highest level of anti-vaxxers, perhaps 50 percent. And that falls far short of achieving herd immunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCKMy university colleagues in China, except for three localities, have gone back to full regular classes. They usually have two months of summer vacation, but this year it will only be three weeks. They extended the spring semester into July and will begin fall semester a week early in order to catch up. &nbsp; Face-to-face schools are also resuming in Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, New Zealand and Germany. Why is the rest of the world still tackling COVID-19? A combination of three reasons has allowed them to return to some normalcy. Nearly everyone in Asia carries a smartphone. This allowed them to use a smartphone app that everyone downloaded. It is used for instantaneous contact tracing. Each person’s phone detects and keeps the phone ID of any other person’s phone that comes within six feet. When a person is diagnosed with COVID-19, their phone can immediately notify all those who had been in that close proximity in the last five days to quarantine. It also color-codes those person’s phone with red (positive = strict quarantine), yellow (came near an infected person so go home and self isolate) and green (healthy). This was most strictly enforced in Taiwan but works well in the other Confucian-heritage Asian countries. That is because the second factor is their strong feelings of responsibility that each person feels for others around them and especially for family and classmates.&nbsp; The golden rule proclaiming that “you should act towards others as you would want them to act toward you” was first stated over 500 years BC by Confucius and continues as a cultural value despite the various political systems involved. This also includes greater respect for the elderly and respect for teachers. Therefore we see Asian languages interpreting what we call “rights” as what their languages call “responsibilities.” They are also crowded countries with three to five times more people per area than in the U.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; They are “interdependent.” Does that mean that on average, Asian cultures care more about others than Western cultures do. Well, yes. That is proven by how willing their populations are to shelter-in-place once a danger was understood. This was particularly true in the first two months when there were not yet tests and the smartphone app was not yet available. When our Western press interviews in Asia, they fail to comprehend the replies they receive from medical personnel about how Asians are more concerned about others and more willing to quarantine. They have been wearing face masks for decades out of concern for others around them. But New Zealand and Germany are different. There is a larger Asian population in New Zealand than in North America or Europe, but it is not the majority. Yet, being a relatively small nation, it did succeed in a strict lockdown that eliminated cases. Now their problem is preventing the import of new cases, a problem China still faces.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; However, Germany lacks the Confucian ethic and yet has done very well controlling this pandemic. Here the third critical factor is science education. For generations, Germans have received the most advanced education on human anatomy and physiology, plus disease microbiology, in public school. Therefore, the average citizen can self-refer themselves to a medical specialist when they feel ill. Germany has a scientist at the head of their government and a population that knows three times more science than Americans. Therefore we now have Asian countries watching the international news, observing the disasters in America and Brazil and asking “Don’t they care about their fellow citizens, and especially their medical workers?”&nbsp; And we have Germany watching our news and asking “Don’t they understand science?” By our group actions, we show that indeed a critical mass of Americans are science illiterate. We will await a vaccine as our cure-all. Except there is a problem there also. Second only to the Taliban, Americans have the highest level of anti-vaxxers, perhaps 50 percent. And that falls far short of achieving herd immunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

Education Frontlines: Interdependence versus independence

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Board of Regents member Allen Schmidt.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KBOR member Allen Schmidt" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/uprmx-e3e2ea?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Board of Regents member Allen Schmidt.

🎤Forward Ever: KBOR member Allen Schmidt

An active pattern of showers and thunderstorms is in store for the first half of the work week. 

Although some strong to marginally severe storms are possible throughout the period, widespread severe weather appears low at this time, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita. However, very heavy rain and flooding could become a concern for some areas. 

Temperatures will be cooler than in recent days, topping out near 90 each day, NWS noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595252162509.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An active pattern of showers and thunderstorms is in store for the first half of the work week. Although some strong to marginally severe storms are possible throughout the period, widespread severe weather appears low at this time, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita. However, very heavy rain and flooding could become a concern for some areas. Temperatures will be cooler than in recent days, topping out near 90 each day, NWS noted.

NWS: A wet start to the work week

A South Salina manufacturing company is missing a welder after someone stole it late last week.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that sometime between 2:30 p.m. Thursday and 5 a.m. Friday someone entered the welding shop of Eldorado National, 1655 Wall B, and removed a blue Miller Motic 211 welder valued at $1,700. The welder had "296" printed in white on a sticker on the top edge of the welder, he noted.

It appeared that someone had possibly climbed the fence on the property to gain access to the building, Forrester explained. There are no suspects at this time, he added.

A South Salina manufacturing company is missing a welder after someone stole it late last week.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that sometime between 2:30 p.m. Thursday and 5 a.m. Friday someone entered the welding shop of Eldorado National, 1655 Wall B, and removed a blue Miller Motic 211 welder valued at $1,700. The welder had "296" printed in white on a sticker on the top edge of the welder, he noted.It appeared that someone had possibly climbed the fence on the property to gain access to the building, Forrester explained. There are no suspects at this time, he added.

Welder stolen from Eldorado National late last week

Three people were injured in a two-vehicle accident in west Salina Saturday afternoon.

Gary Gorrell, 68, of Salina, was eastbound on West Crawford Street in a 2018 Honda CRV when he turned left onto South Broadway Boulevard and into the path of and was struck by a westbound 1994 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Garson Stanley-Boyles, 19, of Salina, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The accident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. Saturday.

Gorrell and his passenger, a 69-year-old Salina woman, complained of injuries and sought treatment at Urgent Care, while Stanley-Boyles complained of facial injuries and sought treatment at Salina Regional Health Center, Forrester reported.

Both vehicles had heavy front-end damage and had to be towed from the scene, he added.

Forrester noted that Gorrell was cited for failure to yield when turning left and Stanley-Boyles was cited for an illegal tag, no insurance, and no seatbelt.

Three people were injured in a two-vehicle accident in west Salina Saturday afternoon.Gary Gorrell, 68, of Salina, was eastbound on West Crawford Street in a 2018 Honda CRV when he turned left onto South Broadway Boulevard and into the path of and was struck by a westbound 1994 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Garson Stanley-Boyles, 19, of Salina, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The accident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. Saturday.Gorrell and his passenger, a 69-year-old Salina woman, complained of injuries and sought treatment at Urgent Care, while Stanley-Boyles complained of facial injuries and sought treatment at Salina Regional Health Center, Forrester reported.Both vehicles had heavy front-end damage and had to be towed from the scene, he added.Forrester noted that Gorrell was cited for failure to yield when turning left and Stanley-Boyles was cited for an illegal tag, no insurance, and no seatbelt.

Three people injured in two-vehicle accident Saturday in west Salina

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department late Sunday night reported five additional cases of COVID-19 that were confirmed over the weekend, bringing the county total to 109.

Positive case No. 105 is a symptomatic female in her 60s with known exposure and is recovering at home.

Positive case No. 106 is a symptomatic male in his 30s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.

Positive case No. 107 is a symptomatic male in his 50s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.

Positive case No. 108 is a symptomatic male in his 70s with unknown exposure and is currently hospitalized.

Positive case No. 109 is a symptomatic male in his 20s with known exposure and is recovering at home.

Of the 109 cases, 92 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines, the health department noted. No COVID-19 related deaths have been reported in the county, the health department added.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department late Sunday night reported five additional cases of COVID-19 that were confirmed over the weekend, bringing the county total to 109.Those cases include the following.Cases from SaturdayPositive case No. 105 is a symptomatic female in her 60s with known exposure and is recovering at home.Positive case No. 106 is a symptomatic male in his 30s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.Positive case No. 107 is a symptomatic male in his 50s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.Positive case No. 108 is a symptomatic male in his 70s with unknown exposure and is currently hospitalized.Case from SundayPositive case No. 109 is a symptomatic male in his 20s with known exposure and is recovering at home.Of the 109 cases, 92 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines, the health department noted. No COVID-19 related deaths have been reported in the county, the health department added.

McPherson County reports five new cases of COVID-19

Various thankful signs have appeared around town, but none had thanked postal and federal employees, so Salinan Linda Ourada had one made that did just that!

"Since the pandemic started there has been other thankful signs displayed in our community but I have not seen a thankful sign to our postal and federal employees," Ourada told Salina Post.

She said she proudly displays the sign in her front yard for all to see.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595209480303.jpeg" alt="The sign displayed in Linda Ourada's yard. Photo courtesy Linda Ourada" />
 <figcaption>The sign displayed in Linda Ourada's yard. Photo courtesy Linda Ourada</figcaption>
 </figure>Various thankful signs have appeared around town, but none had thanked postal and federal employees, so Salinan Linda Ourada had one made that did just that!"Since the pandemic started there has been other thankful signs displayed in our community but I have not seen a thankful sign to our postal and federal employees," Ourada told Salina Post.She said she proudly displays the sign in her front yard for all to see.

Salina woman thanks postal and federal employees

With less than a month before most Kansas school districts were expecting to welcome back teachers and students for the fall semester, students, families and educators are asking when schools will actually open, what that will really look like and who will decide.

Public schools are working to address safety, reflect community needs, ensure quality learning, and help students dealing with additional challenges. Here is what we know – and don’t know – now.

Ordinarily, most decisions about school operations are made by local school boards. They make decisions about the school calendar, hiring staff, what courses will be taught and what programs operated, when and where. However, boards must follow certain state laws, such as offering at least 1,116 hours or 186 days of instruction; federal laws, like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; and they must negotiate certain terms of employment with teachers if there is a teacher organization.

That changed last March, when after declaring a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Laura Kelly used her authority under state law to order all schools closed to any more than 10 people until May 29. As part of her order, the Kansas State Board of Education developed a process that allowed districts to waive the minimum days and hours requirements if they adopted “continuous learning plans” for students to receive instruction and learn either online or through lessons sent home. Districts also continued to deliver certain services like serving meals and counseling, but not onsite.

Although these efforts helped meet nutritional and other basic needs and some students continued academic progress through remote learning, there were widespread concerns. Some children lost regular contact and engagement with teachers. Some families lack internet, devices or even physical space for all children to learn online. Some teachers and families did not have the training for effective remote learning.

With the likelihood that the COVID-19 pandemic would continue into the new school year, the Kansas State Department of Education appointed a wide range of educators, parents, state and local officials and health experts to draft guidelines for school reopening. Called “Navigating Change: Kansas’ Guide to Learning and Safe School Operations,” the guidelines envisioned schools operating this year under three learning environments:

On-site&nbsp;– students and teachers will be in school with or without social distancing practices put into place.

Hybrid&nbsp;– students would be spending part of their time in the classroom and part of their time learning virtually from home.

Remote&nbsp;– students would be doing all their learning from home and not entering the school building at all.

The guide has two parts. First, it identifies the “essential” competencies or knowledge and skills students should learn at four “grade bands:” PreK- Grade 2; Grade 3-5; Grades 6-8; and Grades 9-12. The goal is to provide much clearer expectations for teachers, students and parents over what is to be taught at each level, regardless of where a child was learning. It also sets stronger accountability requirements for remote learning, including teacher check-in and daily student logs.

Second, it provides recommendations or suggestions for how to reduce the risk for COVID-19 spread when students and teachers are physically in school buildings. The document was aimed at helping students and staff be safe if learning was taking place&nbsp;at&nbsp;school; and making learning more effective if taking place&nbsp;away&nbsp;from school.

The guidelines were “accepted” by the State Board of Education last week, but it is important to stress that, with a few exceptions, such as remote learning requirements, everything in the document was recommendations or options for local school boards, not&nbsp;requirements. The State Board action does not require local districts to do, or not do, anything not already required by state or federal law, or by state or local health restrictions.

However, on Wednesday, the same day the State Board accepted the plan, Governor Kelly, citing rising numbers of COVID cases in the state, said she would issue an executive order this Monday, July 20, that will require local districts to delay the opening of school until after Labor Day, likely Sept 9. She also said she would issue another order making parts of the Board’s guidelines mandatory, such as masks, social distancing, proper hygiene and daily temperature checks.

The details of these orders – exactly what is required or prohibited – will not be known until they are published, presumably Monday, but that will not be the end of the story.

First, due to changes in state law approved during the special session of the Legislature, any order by the Governor to close schools must be approved by the State Board of Education, so five of the 10 members could block the delay.

Second, the Legislature also approved changes that allow each county’s board of commissioners to adopt less restrictive public health orders than statewide provisions adopted by the Governor. For example, most Kansas counties opted out of the Governor’s order requiring masks to be worn in public. These provisions are new and have not been tested in court, but it appears counties could “opt out” of the Governor’s order to delay schools until September, or the proposed order on health and safety requirements for schools.

Third, if this isn’t complicated enough, the Governor’s authority to issue these orders is based on her COVID-19 disaster declaration last spring, which was approved by the Legislature only until September 15. That is past the proposed school start date, but could mean that health and safety orders, even if left intact by counties, will expire at that point. The law says any extension of that disaster declaration must be approved by a majority of legislative Leaders on the State Finance Council.

It is also worth noting that local school boards cannot be less restrictive than state or local health mandates, but they can be more so. Therefore, if the Governor’s delay in starting school is rejected by either the State Board or county commission, local boards can choose to delay the start of school on their own. Likewise, if counties reject the Governor’s statewide school health requirements, local school boards can still adopt any part of the State Board’s guidance.

However, school boards cannot be&nbsp;less&nbsp;restrictive than local health requirements. In other words, if a city or county adopts masks or social distancing or limits on gatherings, school boards are required to follow those even if they are more restrictive than state policies or guidelines.

As a result, school boards will have to continue planning for the new school year without yet knowing clearly when they can open or what requirements will be in place, and they will have to balance multiple competing demands. There is the pressure to reopen schools as soon as possible to allow onsite learning and services, student socialization and activities and custodial care so parents can return to work. On the other hand, an unknown number of parents and staff are afraid it is still too dangerous to go back to school, especially if it is not yet clear what safety measures will actually be implemented, and COVID-19 cases are still rising. Students have the option to attend other schools (like home schooling or virtual programs), and staff can request different assignments, request accommodations, resign or retire. Some families and staff will only want to return if strict procedures like masks are in place; others may strongly oppose wearing masks. Changing classroom arrangements, student schedules and hybrid learning are designed to make buildings safer, but could put additional stresses on families and school budgets.

The Kansas education system was designed to spread out governing power, provide checks and balances (like a strong, independent, elected State Board of Education) and local control (cities, counties and school boards) to respond to different local circumstances, needs and values. We are part of a living lesson on how that works.

To answer the questions about when schools will open and what that will mean, local school boards will be influenced by decisions of the Governor, Legislature, State Board and local governments. But they will have to make most of the decisions based on how to deliver the best education to the most students in the safest possible ways for their community.

Mark Tallman is the Kansas Association of School Boards executive director for advocacy. He is the author of <a href="https://kasb.org/blog/where-kansas-school-reopening-plans-stand-right-now/?fbclid=IwAR3TNmDHxxknQDKBN5mNZnRCwCfwDnULgctlMmyuBq2NdEqlPC2julQzdIo">The Tallman Education Report</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595204648417.png" alt="Image courtesy <a href="https://kasb.org/blog/where-kansas-school-reopening-plans-stand-right-now/?fbclid=IwAR3TNmDHxxknQDKBN5mNZnRCwCfwDnULgctlMmyuBq2NdEqlPC2julQzdIo">The Tallman Education Report</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="https://kasb.org/blog/where-kansas-school-reopening-plans-stand-right-now/?fbclid=IwAR3TNmDHxxknQDKBN5mNZnRCwCfwDnULgctlMmyuBq2NdEqlPC2julQzdIo">The Tallman Education Report</a></figcaption>
 </figure>With less than a month before most Kansas school districts were expecting to welcome back teachers and students for the fall semester, students, families and educators are asking when schools will actually open, what that will really look like and who will decide.Public schools are working to address safety, reflect community needs, ensure quality learning, and help students dealing with additional challenges. Here is what we know – and don’t know – now.Ordinarily, most decisions about school operations are made by local school boards. They make decisions about the school calendar, hiring staff, what courses will be taught and what programs operated, when and where. However, boards must follow certain state laws, such as offering at least 1,116 hours or 186 days of instruction; federal laws, like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; and they must negotiate certain terms of employment with teachers if there is a teacher organization.That changed last March, when after declaring a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Laura Kelly used her authority under state law to order all schools closed to any more than 10 people until May 29. As part of her order, the Kansas State Board of Education developed a process that allowed districts to waive the minimum days and hours requirements if they adopted “continuous learning plans” for students to receive instruction and learn either online or through lessons sent home. Districts also continued to deliver certain services like serving meals and counseling, but not onsite.Although these efforts helped meet nutritional and other basic needs and some students continued academic progress through remote learning, there were widespread concerns. Some children lost regular contact and engagement with teachers. Some families lack internet, devices or even physical space for all children to learn online. Some teachers and families did not have the training for effective remote learning.With the likelihood that the COVID-19 pandemic would continue into the new school year, the Kansas State Department of Education appointed a wide range of educators, parents, state and local officials and health experts to draft guidelines for school reopening. Called “Navigating Change: Kansas’ Guide to Learning and Safe School Operations,” the guidelines envisioned schools operating this year under three learning environments:On-site&nbsp;– students and teachers will be in school with or without social distancing practices put into place.Hybrid&nbsp;– students would be spending part of their time in the classroom and part of their time learning virtually from home.Remote&nbsp;– students would be doing all their learning from home and not entering the school building at all.The guide has two parts. First, it identifies the “essential” competencies or knowledge and skills students should learn at four “grade bands:” PreK- Grade 2; Grade 3-5; Grades 6-8; and Grades 9-12. The goal is to provide much clearer expectations for teachers, students and parents over what is to be taught at each level, regardless of where a child was learning. It also sets stronger accountability requirements for remote learning, including teacher check-in and daily student logs.Second, it provides recommendations or suggestions for how to reduce the risk for COVID-19 spread when students and teachers are physically in school buildings. The document was aimed at helping students and staff be safe if learning was taking place&nbsp;at&nbsp;school; and making learning more effective if taking place&nbsp;away&nbsp;from school.The guidelines were “accepted” by the State Board of Education last week, but it is important to stress that, with a few exceptions, such as remote learning requirements, everything in the document was recommendations or options for local school boards, not&nbsp;requirements. The State Board action does not require local districts to do, or not do, anything not already required by state or federal law, or by state or local health restrictions.However, on Wednesday, the same day the State Board accepted the plan, Governor Kelly, citing rising numbers of COVID cases in the state, said she would issue an executive order this Monday, July 20, that will require local districts to delay the opening of school until after Labor Day, likely Sept 9. She also said she would issue another order making parts of the Board’s guidelines mandatory, such as masks, social distancing, proper hygiene and daily temperature checks.The details of these orders – exactly what is required or prohibited – will not be known until they are published, presumably Monday, but that will not be the end of the story.First, due to changes in state law approved during the special session of the Legislature, any order by the Governor to close schools must be approved by the State Board of Education, so five of the 10 members could block the delay.Second, the Legislature also approved changes that allow each county’s board of commissioners to adopt less restrictive public health orders than statewide provisions adopted by the Governor. For example, most Kansas counties opted out of the Governor’s order requiring masks to be worn in public. These provisions are new and have not been tested in court, but it appears counties could “opt out” of the Governor’s order to delay schools until September, or the proposed order on health and safety requirements for schools.Third, if this isn’t complicated enough, the Governor’s authority to issue these orders is based on her COVID-19 disaster declaration last spring, which was approved by the Legislature only until September 15. That is past the proposed school start date, but could mean that health and safety orders, even if left intact by counties, will expire at that point. The law says any extension of that disaster declaration must be approved by a majority of legislative Leaders on the State Finance Council.It is also worth noting that local school boards cannot be less restrictive than state or local health mandates, but they can be more so. Therefore, if the Governor’s delay in starting school is rejected by either the State Board or county commission, local boards can choose to delay the start of school on their own. Likewise, if counties reject the Governor’s statewide school health requirements, local school boards can still adopt any part of the State Board’s guidance.However, school boards cannot be&nbsp;less&nbsp;restrictive than local health requirements. In other words, if a city or county adopts masks or social distancing or limits on gatherings, school boards are required to follow those even if they are more restrictive than state policies or guidelines.As a result, school boards will have to continue planning for the new school year without yet knowing clearly when they can open or what requirements will be in place, and they will have to balance multiple competing demands. There is the pressure to reopen schools as soon as possible to allow onsite learning and services, student socialization and activities and custodial care so parents can return to work. On the other hand, an unknown number of parents and staff are afraid it is still too dangerous to go back to school, especially if it is not yet clear what safety measures will actually be implemented, and COVID-19 cases are still rising. Students have the option to attend other schools (like home schooling or virtual programs), and staff can request different assignments, request accommodations, resign or retire. Some families and staff will only want to return if strict procedures like masks are in place; others may strongly oppose wearing masks. Changing classroom arrangements, student schedules and hybrid learning are designed to make buildings safer, but could put additional stresses on families and school budgets.The Kansas education system was designed to spread out governing power, provide checks and balances (like a strong, independent, elected State Board of Education) and local control (cities, counties and school boards) to respond to different local circumstances, needs and values. We are part of a living lesson on how that works.To answer the questions about when schools will open and what that will mean, local school boards will be influenced by decisions of the Governor, Legislature, State Board and local governments. But they will have to make most of the decisions based on how to deliver the best education to the most students in the safest possible ways for their community.Mark Tallman is the Kansas Association of School Boards executive director for advocacy. He is the author of <a href="https://kasb.org/blog/where-kansas-school-reopening-plans-stand-right-now/?fbclid=IwAR3TNmDHxxknQDKBN5mNZnRCwCfwDnULgctlMmyuBq2NdEqlPC2julQzdIo">The Tallman Education Report</a>.

Tallman: Where Kansas school reopening plans stand right now

MANHATTAN – There are two sure-fire ways to avoid the pungent smell of a skunk: don’t get into areas where skunks may live, but if you do, for goodness sakes don’t get sprayed.

When those two factors collide, humans and pets usually get the short end of the deal.

“It’s certainly a better idea to prevent the problem than to try to deal with the after effects,” said Charlie Lee, a wildlife specialist with K-State Research and Extension.

It is rare for a healthy skunk to bite a human. However, one that is exhibiting active signs of rabies – aggressiveness, seizures or stumbling, to name a few – may be more inclined to bite and could transmit the disease to humans or animals.

More common, however, is that a skunk will try to chase away a predator or encroaching human by spraying a yellow-tinted, oily liquid – called a musk -- stored in two sacs near the anus of the animal.

“Each sac has about a teaspoon of musk, which is enough for multiple sprays,” Lee said. “The musk is discharged through nipples that help skunks target those things they are trying to repel. Each nipple has its own musk sac, so a skunk can shoot with both barrels, and they can discharge the musk in a mist or a stream.”

The musk cannot transmit the rabies virus, Lee said, but it can temporarily blind or stun individuals if they are sprayed in the face.

While the health effects of being sprayed by a skunk are minimal, it is nonetheless unpleasant to rid hair, clothes and body of the bitter smell. Lee said the following mixture, discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum, has been shown to be effective:

“Mix those three ingredients in an open container and use it immediately,” he said. “Do not mix these ingredients in advance because when oxygen is released, the container can explode.”

The mixture can be used on people and pets, but Lee cautioned users to avoid splashing it in the eyes or mouth. On pets, allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before rinsing.

For inanimate objects – surfaces, decks, chairs and other outside objects – Lee suggested a mixture of 1 cup of liquid laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. “Be aware that bleach may stain surfaces,” he said.

Lee added that some of the effective commercial products available in many stores include Skunk-Off, Odormute, Fresh Wave, Epoleon N-100 and Neutroleum Alpha.

“Neutroleum Alpha is one that has been used to control odor from skunks in a variety of settings,” Lee said. “It deodorizes by masking the odor with a different one that is described as minty or pleasant. You can use it directly on surfaces or it can be used as an air deodorizer by placing it on paper towels or napkins and then hanging them in the area.”

Lee noted that one home remedy thought to work is probably not what folks think it is: “Tomato juice is not something I recommend,” he said. “It appears to be only marginally effective.”

“There are a lot of products out there that will help consumers through a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Keep in mind that at times when humidity is high or it rains, the odor will appear to come back. In those times, simply re-apply the product.”

More information on wildlife management issues is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/nuisance-wildlife.html" target="_blank">available online</a>&nbsp;from K-State Research and Extension.

KSRE: Name brands used in this article are for identification purposes only and are not intended to be an endorsement of any particular product.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595247088885.jpeg" alt="Skunk photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Skunk photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – There are two sure-fire ways to avoid the pungent smell of a skunk: don’t get into areas where skunks may live, but if you do, for goodness sakes don’t get sprayed.When those two factors collide, humans and pets usually get the short end of the deal.“It’s certainly a better idea to prevent the problem than to try to deal with the after effects,” said Charlie Lee, a wildlife specialist with K-State Research and Extension.It is rare for a healthy skunk to bite a human. However, one that is exhibiting active signs of rabies – aggressiveness, seizures or stumbling, to name a few – may be more inclined to bite and could transmit the disease to humans or animals.More common, however, is that a skunk will try to chase away a predator or encroaching human by spraying a yellow-tinted, oily liquid – called a musk -- stored in two sacs near the anus of the animal.“Each sac has about a teaspoon of musk, which is enough for multiple sprays,” Lee said. “The musk is discharged through nipples that help skunks target those things they are trying to repel. Each nipple has its own musk sac, so a skunk can shoot with both barrels, and they can discharge the musk in a mist or a stream.”The musk cannot transmit the rabies virus, Lee said, but it can temporarily blind or stun individuals if they are sprayed in the face.While the health effects of being sprayed by a skunk are minimal, it is nonetheless unpleasant to rid hair, clothes and body of the bitter smell. Lee said the following mixture, discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum, has been shown to be effective:1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide ¼ cup of baking soda1 teaspoon of liquid determent.“Mix those three ingredients in an open container and use it immediately,” he said. “Do not mix these ingredients in advance because when oxygen is released, the container can explode.”The mixture can be used on people and pets, but Lee cautioned users to avoid splashing it in the eyes or mouth. On pets, allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before rinsing.For inanimate objects – surfaces, decks, chairs and other outside objects – Lee suggested a mixture of 1 cup of liquid laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. “Be aware that bleach may stain surfaces,” he said.Lee added that some of the effective commercial products available in many stores include Skunk-Off, Odormute, Fresh Wave, Epoleon N-100 and Neutroleum Alpha.“Neutroleum Alpha is one that has been used to control odor from skunks in a variety of settings,” Lee said. “It deodorizes by masking the odor with a different one that is described as minty or pleasant. You can use it directly on surfaces or it can be used as an air deodorizer by placing it on paper towels or napkins and then hanging them in the area.”Lee noted that one home remedy thought to work is probably not what folks think it is: “Tomato juice is not something I recommend,” he said. “It appears to be only marginally effective.”“There are a lot of products out there that will help consumers through a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Keep in mind that at times when humidity is high or it rains, the odor will appear to come back. In those times, simply re-apply the product.”More information on wildlife management issues is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/nuisance-wildlife.html" target="_blank">available online</a>&nbsp;from K-State Research and Extension.KSRE: Name brands used in this article are for identification purposes only and are not intended to be an endorsement of any particular product.

Skunked? Home remedies, commercial products can help reduce stink

DES MOINES, Iowa – The following local students graduated from Drake University at the end of the spring 2020 semester.

McPherson:&nbsp;Tate Johnson, Bachelor of Arts, Environmental Science&nbsp;&nbsp;

Drake University is a midsize, private university in Des Moines, Iowa, enrolling more than 3,000 undergraduate and 1,800 graduate students. Students choose from over 70 majors, minors, and concentrations and 20 graduate degrees offered through six colleges and schools. Drake students, faculty, and staff take advantage of the wealth of cultural, recreational, and business opportunities found in Iowa's capital city. In return, Drake enriches the city through its own cultural offerings, considerable economic impact, and many service-learning endeavors, which channel the talent and energy of the Drake students toward meeting the needs of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DES MOINES, Iowa – The following local students graduated from Drake University at the end of the spring 2020 semester.McPherson:&nbsp;Tate Johnson, Bachelor of Arts, Environmental Science&nbsp;&nbsp;Drake University is a midsize, private university in Des Moines, Iowa, enrolling more than 3,000 undergraduate and 1,800 graduate students. Students choose from over 70 majors, minors, and concentrations and 20 graduate degrees offered through six colleges and schools. Drake students, faculty, and staff take advantage of the wealth of cultural, recreational, and business opportunities found in Iowa's capital city. In return, Drake enriches the city through its own cultural offerings, considerable economic impact, and many service-learning endeavors, which channel the talent and energy of the Drake students toward meeting the needs of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

McPherson's Johnson graduates from Drake University

Today is Monday, July 20, the 202nd day of 2020. There are 164 days left in the year. 

On July 20, 1969, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin became the first men to walk on the moon after reaching the surface in their Apollo 11 lunar module. 

In 1923, Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa was assassinated by gunmen in Parral. 

In 1944, an attempt by a group of German officials to assassinate Adolf Hitler with a bomb failed as the explosion only wounded the Nazi leader. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was nominated for a fourth term of office at the Democratic convention in Chicago. 

In 1951, Jordan's King Abdullah I was assassinated in Jerusalem by a Palestinian gunman who was shot dead on the spot by security.

In 1960, a pair of Polaris missiles were fired from the submerged USS George Washington off Cape Canaveral, Fla., at a target more than 1,100 miles away. 

In 1965, the Bob Dylan single "Like a Rolling Stone" was released by Columbia Records.

In 1968, the first International Special Olympics Summer Games, organized by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, were held at Soldier Field in Chicago. 

In 1976, America's Viking 1 robot spacecraft made a successful, first-ever landing on Mars. 

In 1977, a flash flood hit Johnstown, Pennsylvania, killing more than 80 people and causing $350 million worth of damage. The U.N. Security Council voted to admit Vietnam to the world body. 

In 1990, Supreme Court Justice William J. Brennan, one of the court's most liberal voices, announced he was stepping down. 

In 1993, White House deputy counsel Vincent Foster Jr., 48, was found shot to death in a park near Washington, D.C.; his death was ruled a suicide. 

In 2007, President George W. Bush signed an executive order prohibiting cruel and inhuman treatment, including humiliation or denigration of religious beliefs, in the detention and interrogation of terrorism suspects. 

In 2012, gunman James Holmes opened fire inside a crowded movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, during a midnight showing of "The Dark Knight Rises," killing 12 people and wounding 70 others. (Holmes was later convicted of murder and attempted murder, and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.)

Ten years ago: The Senate Judiciary Committee voted almost totally along party lines, 13-6, to approve Elena Kagan to be the Supreme Court's fourth female justice. Actress Lindsay Lohan began a 14-day jail sentence — reduced from 90 due to overcrowding — for violating probation in 2007 drug case.

Five years ago: The United States and Cuba restored full diplomatic relations after more than five decades of frosty relations rooted in the Cold War. The U.N. Security Council unanimously endorsed a landmark deal to rein in Iran's nuclear program. Banks in Greece finally reopened after being closed for three weeks. Zach Johnson won the British Open. Songwriter Wayne Carson, 72, died in Nashville, Tennessee. "Archie" cartoonist Tom Moore, 86, died in El Paso, Texas.

One year ago: Americans marked the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing; Buzz Aldrin, the second man to set foot on the moon, showed Vice President Mike Pence the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center where the historic flight began. A heat wave that spread from Texas to Maine canceled festivals, horse races and other events.

Today's Birthdays: Actress-singer Sally Ann Howes is 90. Author Cormac McCarthy is 87. Former Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski, D-Md., is 84. Actress Diana Rigg is 82. Artist Judy Chicago is 81. Rock musician John Lodge (The Moody Blues) is 77. Country singer T.G. Sheppard is 76. Singer Kim Carnes is 75. Rock musician Carlos Santana is 73. Rock musician Jay Jay French (Twisted Sister) is 68. Rock musician Paul Cook (The Sex Pistols, Man Raze) is 64. Actress Donna Dixon is 63. Rock musician Mick McNeil (Simple Minds) is 62. Country singer Radney Foster is 61. Actor Frank Whaley is 57. Actor Dean Winters is 56. Rock musician Stone Gossard (Pearl Jam) is 54. Actor Reed Diamond is 53. Actor Josh Holloway is 51. Singer Vitamin C is 51. Actress Sandra Oh is 49. Actor Omar Epps is 47. Actor Simon Rex is 46. Actress Judy Greer is 45. Actor Charlie Korsmo is 42. Singer Elliott Yamin (American Idol) is 42. Supermodel Gisele Bundchen is 40. Rock musician Mike Kennerty (The All-American Rejects) is 40. Actor Percy Daggs III is 38. Actor John Francis Daley is 35. Country singer Hannah Blaylock (Edens Edge) is 34. Dancer-singer-actress Julianne Hough is 32. Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg is 32. Actress Billi Bruno is 24.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Monday, July 20, the 202nd day of 2020. There are 164 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On July 20, 1969, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin became the first men to walk on the moon after reaching the surface in their Apollo 11 lunar module. On this date: In 1923, Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa was assassinated by gunmen in Parral. In 1944, an attempt by a group of German officials to assassinate Adolf Hitler with a bomb failed as the explosion only wounded the Nazi leader. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was nominated for a fourth term of office at the Democratic convention in Chicago. In 1951, Jordan's King Abdullah I was assassinated in Jerusalem by a Palestinian gunman who was shot dead on the spot by security.In 1960, a pair of Polaris missiles were fired from the submerged USS George Washington off Cape Canaveral, Fla., at a target more than 1,100 miles away. In 1965, the Bob Dylan single "Like a Rolling Stone" was released by Columbia Records.In 1968, the first International Special Olympics Summer Games, organized by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, were held at Soldier Field in Chicago. In 1976, America's Viking 1 robot spacecraft made a successful, first-ever landing on Mars. In 1977, a flash flood hit Johnstown, Pennsylvania, killing more than 80 people and causing $350 million worth of damage. The U.N. Security Council voted to admit Vietnam to the world body. In 1990, Supreme Court Justice William J. Brennan, one of the court's most liberal voices, announced he was stepping down. In 1993, White House deputy counsel Vincent Foster Jr., 48, was found shot to death in a park near Washington, D.C.; his death was ruled a suicide. In 2007, President George W. Bush signed an executive order prohibiting cruel and inhuman treatment, including humiliation or denigration of religious beliefs, in the detention and interrogation of terrorism suspects. In 2012, gunman James Holmes opened fire inside a crowded movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, during a midnight showing of "The Dark Knight Rises," killing 12 people and wounding 70 others. (Holmes was later convicted of murder and attempted murder, and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.)Ten years ago: The Senate Judiciary Committee voted almost totally along party lines, 13-6, to approve Elena Kagan to be the Supreme Court's fourth female justice. Actress Lindsay Lohan began a 14-day jail sentence — reduced from 90 due to overcrowding — for violating probation in 2007 drug case. Five years ago: The United States and Cuba restored full diplomatic relations after more than five decades of frosty relations rooted in the Cold War. The U.N. Security Council unanimously endorsed a landmark deal to rein in Iran's nuclear program. Banks in Greece finally reopened after being closed for three weeks. Zach Johnson won the British Open. Songwriter Wayne Carson, 72, died in Nashville, Tennessee. "Archie" cartoonist Tom Moore, 86, died in El Paso, Texas.One year ago: Americans marked the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing; Buzz Aldrin, the second man to set foot on the moon, showed Vice President Mike Pence the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center where the historic flight began. A heat wave that spread from Texas to Maine canceled festivals, horse races and other events.Today's Birthdays: Actress-singer Sally Ann Howes is 90. Author Cormac McCarthy is 87. Former Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski, D-Md., is 84. Actress Diana Rigg is 82. Artist Judy Chicago is 81. Rock musician John Lodge (The Moody Blues) is 77. Country singer T.G. Sheppard is 76. Singer Kim Carnes is 75. Rock musician Carlos Santana is 73. Rock musician Jay Jay French (Twisted Sister) is 68. Rock musician Paul Cook (The Sex Pistols, Man Raze) is 64. Actress Donna Dixon is 63. Rock musician Mick McNeil (Simple Minds) is 62. Country singer Radney Foster is 61. Actor Frank Whaley is 57. Actor Dean Winters is 56. Rock musician Stone Gossard (Pearl Jam) is 54. Actor Reed Diamond is 53. Actor Josh Holloway is 51. Singer Vitamin C is 51. Actress Sandra Oh is 49. Actor Omar Epps is 47. Actor Simon Rex is 46. Actress Judy Greer is 45. Actor Charlie Korsmo is 42. Singer Elliott Yamin (American Idol) is 42. Supermodel Gisele Bundchen is 40. Rock musician Mike Kennerty (The All-American Rejects) is 40. Actor Percy Daggs III is 38. Actor John Francis Daley is 35. Country singer Hannah Blaylock (Edens Edge) is 34. Dancer-singer-actress Julianne Hough is 32. Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg is 32. Actress Billi Bruno is 24.

Today in History -- July 20

Have you checked out the Post Rock Scenic Byway? From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TravelKS/">Kansas Tourism</a> Facebook page:

Have you checked out the Post Rock Scenic Byway? From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TravelKS/">Kansas Tourism</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTravelKS%2Fposts%2F10158918654767868&width=500" width="500" height="512" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

For a trip that rocks, travel the nearby Post Rock Scenic Byway

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

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

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

Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

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

Budget review, executive sessions, sidewalk cafés on city agenda

CLAY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Sunday in Clay County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by&nbsp; Wesley E. Alexander, 63, Lenexa, was eastbound on U.S. 24 ten miles west of Clay Center.

The Jeep traveled into the north ditch, struck a farm access drive and a tree before coming to rest on its driver side. The Jeep then became fully engulfed in flames.

Alexander was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Neill Swenson Funeral Home. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

CLAY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Sunday in Clay County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by&nbsp; Wesley E. Alexander, 63, Lenexa, was eastbound on U.S. 24 ten miles west of Clay Center.The Jeep traveled into the north ditch, struck a farm access drive and a tree before coming to rest on its driver side. The Jeep then became fully engulfed in flames.Alexander was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Neill Swenson Funeral Home. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after Jeep crash and fire

A small earthquake shook part of southeastern Saline County early Sunday morning.

According to the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), the 2.2 magnitude quake struck at 12:24 a.m. Sunday. It was centered just north of Kansas Highway 4 between South Woodward Road and South Cunningham Road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595191897819.png" alt="Map courtesy KGS" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy KGS</figcaption>
 </figure>A small earthquake shook part of southeastern Saline County early Sunday morning.According to the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), the 2.2 magnitude quake struck at 12:24 a.m. Sunday. It was centered just north of Kansas Highway 4 between South Woodward Road and South Cunningham Road.

Small quake rattles part of southeastern Saline County early Sunday

Check it out! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillMuseum/">Smoky Hill Museum</a> Facebook page:

Check it out! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillMuseum/">Smoky Hill Museum</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSmokyHillMuseum%2Fposts%2F3099109456803532&width=500" width="500" height="571" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Museum website includes military in Salina crossword

Here's a look at the 24-hour rainfall totals as of 7 a.m. Sunday.&nbsp;

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita several rounds of storms are possible for tonight through Tuesday, possibly bringing heavy rain to the area, NWS noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595185019411.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here's a look at the 24-hour rainfall totals as of 7 a.m. Sunday.&nbsp;According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita several rounds of storms are possible for tonight through Tuesday, possibly bringing heavy rain to the area, NWS noted.

NWS releases 24-hour rainfall estimates

A peaceful protest of two specific Salina Police Department initiatives is scheduled for Monday afternoon at the City-County Building.

At the Salina City Commission meeting on Monday, The Sunflower Coalition, a local group, is scheduled to present to the commission its proposed changes for the Salina Police Department. Specifically, those changes include a revision of the department's Citizen Review Board and a cessation of participation in a federal program that allows the department to acquire military equipment. (See the proposal below.)

The commission meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. Monday in room 107 of the City-County Building. The Sunflower Coalition presentation is scheduled in the middle of the meeting.

The peaceful protest and demonstration in support of The Sunflower Coalition's proposal is being organized by two local women, Miranda Bachman and artist Priti Gulati Cox, according to information provided to Salina Post by Bachman. The supporting event is being conducted outside, rather than supporting persons being in the commission meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bachman noted.

Participants are asked to bring signs and gather at the southwest corner of the City-County Building, according to information from Bachman.

Following is a copy of the proposal being presented to the Salina City Commission. Because of the length of the document, Salina Post is leaving off the cover page and the table of contents. The copy is courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thesunflowercoalition/">The Sunflower Coalition</a> Facebook page. You also can find it as a <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=448508&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">part of the Salina City Commission meeting packet</a> on the city's website.

By SALINA POSTA peaceful protest of two specific Salina Police Department initiatives is scheduled for Monday afternoon at the City-County Building.At the Salina City Commission meeting on Monday, The Sunflower Coalition, a local group, is scheduled to present to the commission its proposed changes for the Salina Police Department. Specifically, those changes include a revision of the department's Citizen Review Board and a cessation of participation in a federal program that allows the department to acquire military equipment. (See the proposal below.)The commission meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. Monday in room 107 of the City-County Building. The Sunflower Coalition presentation is scheduled in the middle of the meeting.The peaceful protest and demonstration in support of The Sunflower Coalition's proposal is being organized by two local women, Miranda Bachman and artist Priti Gulati Cox, according to information provided to Salina Post by Bachman. The supporting event is being conducted outside, rather than supporting persons being in the commission meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bachman noted.Participants are asked to bring signs and gather at the southwest corner of the City-County Building, according to information from Bachman.Following is a copy of the proposal being presented to the Salina City Commission. Because of the length of the document, Salina Post is leaving off the cover page and the table of contents. The copy is courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thesunflowercoalition/">The Sunflower Coalition</a> Facebook page. You also can find it as a <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=448508&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">part of the Salina City Commission meeting packet</a> on the city's website.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595165882355.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595165907157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595165929773.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595165951492.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595165997141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595166020413.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595166043227.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595166064856.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595166087085.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Peaceful protest planned in support of proposal for police

If you have outdoor plans the next couple of days, you might want to keep an eye on the weather.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, several rounds of storms are possible for tonight through Tuesday. 

These storms could bring heavy rainfall to the region and impact the orange highlighted area with possible flooding problems.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595162367786.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have outdoor plans the next couple of days, you might want to keep an eye on the weather.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, several rounds of storms are possible for tonight through Tuesday. These storms could bring heavy rainfall to the region and impact the orange highlighted area with possible flooding problems.

NWS: Heavy rain possible for parts of area through Tuesday

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

“Get steamed!” No, I don’t mean get mad. I mean this might be a time to try steam aromatherapy with natural products made from goat milk. Today we’ll learn about an innovative Kansas business that has created an entire line of goat milk products, including shower steamers, and is marketing those products across America and beyond.&nbsp;

Julie Riggins and her family are owners and creators of the Goat Milk Soap Store. Julie was living in Texas with her husband when his business transferred him to Kansas City. She left her corporate job to follow his career and became a stay-at-home mom. They chose to adopt additional children, and ultimately decided to move out of the city so the kids could grow up in a small-town environment.

They found a farm in Franklin County, Kansas, and decided they should try to grow their own food. They bought some chickens and made a big garden.

“Two of our kids are (cow milk) lactose intolerant, so I figured I should get dairy goats,” Julie said. The Riggins family bought a herd of LaMancha dairy goats from a man in Missouri. They loved the goats. They also found themselves in a constant cycle of feeding and watering.&nbsp;

“We moved to Franklin County thinking we would find a slower pace of life. We were definitely wrong, it never stops out here,” Julie said with a smile.

Now Julie and her husband have eight children, including six whom they have adopted, and seven of those are living at home. Even with their large family, they found that the goats produced more milk than the family could consume.

They thought about other uses for the excess milk. They learned that goat milk has selenium and is high in Vitamin A, which is especially good for the skin. They made the goal milk into products such as soap and lotion which sold well at farmers markets and craft shows.

In 2017, they opened a store in the nearby town of Ottawa. The store includes a showroom in the front and a production facility in the back. They also joined the From the Land of Kansas program offered by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Today, the Goat Milk Soap Store produces an entire line of hand-made goat milk products including soap, lotion, bath bombs, shower steamers, and various skin, lip, and hair products. They also offer soy candles and free-range eggs.

“LaMancha goats are really good milkers,” Julie said. The Riggins family harvests the milk in season and freezes the excess to make their products year-around.

“We follow the FDA guidelines to blend the oils, additives, and milk,” Julie said. “The salts and oils crystallize with the milk to produce a bar of soap that is good for the skin.

“Every bar of soap has a label telling which goat the milk came from,” she said. The shower steamers can be used for steam aromatherapy.

Baby LaMancha goats are exceptionally cute. “They have tiny little ears and the personality of a puppy,” Julie said. “They’re so friendly and curious, they will follow you around.”

In addition to the retail store, the Goat Milk Soap Store offers online shopping. The website even includes a link where a person can&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thegoatmilksoapstore.com/meet-the-goats.html" target="_blank">Meet the Goats</a>. These include June, Jessie, Mabel, Lil’ Bit, Peanut and many more.

Their products have gone from coast to coast and as far away as Alaska, Puerto Rico, and military bases in the Middle East. “God has blessed us,” Julie said. “Last fall we hosted a community Thanksgiving dinner, and 300 people showed up,” she said. “We want to give back to the community.”

The store is in Ottawa. The farm is near the rural town of Pomona, population 832. Now, that’s rural.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595104630795.jpeg" alt="The Goat Milk Soap Store. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>The Goat Milk Soap Store. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State University“Get steamed!” No, I don’t mean get mad. I mean this might be a time to try steam aromatherapy with natural products made from goat milk. Today we’ll learn about an innovative Kansas business that has created an entire line of goat milk products, including shower steamers, and is marketing those products across America and beyond.&nbsp;Julie Riggins and her family are owners and creators of the Goat Milk Soap Store. Julie was living in Texas with her husband when his business transferred him to Kansas City. She left her corporate job to follow his career and became a stay-at-home mom. They chose to adopt additional children, and ultimately decided to move out of the city so the kids could grow up in a small-town environment.They found a farm in Franklin County, Kansas, and decided they should try to grow their own food. They bought some chickens and made a big garden.“Two of our kids are (cow milk) lactose intolerant, so I figured I should get dairy goats,” Julie said. The Riggins family bought a herd of LaMancha dairy goats from a man in Missouri. They loved the goats. They also found themselves in a constant cycle of feeding and watering.&nbsp;“We moved to Franklin County thinking we would find a slower pace of life. We were definitely wrong, it never stops out here,” Julie said with a smile.Now Julie and her husband have eight children, including six whom they have adopted, and seven of those are living at home. Even with their large family, they found that the goats produced more milk than the family could consume.They thought about other uses for the excess milk. They learned that goat milk has selenium and is high in Vitamin A, which is especially good for the skin. They made the goal milk into products such as soap and lotion which sold well at farmers markets and craft shows.In 2017, they opened a store in the nearby town of Ottawa. The store includes a showroom in the front and a production facility in the back. They also joined the From the Land of Kansas program offered by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.Today, the Goat Milk Soap Store produces an entire line of hand-made goat milk products including soap, lotion, bath bombs, shower steamers, and various skin, lip, and hair products. They also offer soy candles and free-range eggs.“LaMancha goats are really good milkers,” Julie said. The Riggins family harvests the milk in season and freezes the excess to make their products year-around.“We follow the FDA guidelines to blend the oils, additives, and milk,” Julie said. “The salts and oils crystallize with the milk to produce a bar of soap that is good for the skin.“Every bar of soap has a label telling which goat the milk came from,” she said. The shower steamers can be used for steam aromatherapy.Baby LaMancha goats are exceptionally cute. “They have tiny little ears and the personality of a puppy,” Julie said. “They’re so friendly and curious, they will follow you around.”In addition to the retail store, the Goat Milk Soap Store offers online shopping. The website even includes a link where a person can&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thegoatmilksoapstore.com/meet-the-goats.html" target="_blank">Meet the Goats</a>. These include June, Jessie, Mabel, Lil’ Bit, Peanut and many more.Their products have gone from coast to coast and as far away as Alaska, Puerto Rico, and military bases in the Middle East. “God has blessed us,” Julie said. “Last fall we hosted a community Thanksgiving dinner, and 300 people showed up,” she said. “We want to give back to the community.”The store is in Ottawa. The farm is near the rural town of Pomona, population 832. Now, that’s rural.For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thegoatmilksoapstore.com/" target="_blank">www.thegoatmilksoapstore.com</a>.Get steamed. No, don’t get mad. Use steam aromatherapy and other products made by the Goat Milk Soap Store. We commend Julie Riggins and her family for making a difference with hand-crafted products from the farm. I hope their business continues to pick up steam.Audio and text files of Kansas Profiles are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprofile.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kansasprofile.com</a>. For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.

Local