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

The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional positive cases of COVID-19 cases to report in Saline County.

At 11 am, KDHE reported a total of 1106 confirmed cases in Kansas and 42 deaths. Saline County has a total of 8 positive cases.

Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order is still in effect. KDHE provided statistics regarding three outbreaks were associated with religious gatherings. These gatherings have resulted in 10 to 25 positive cases each, 14 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths. Social distancing is imperative. During this time of multiple faith traditions and secular celebrations, the Saline County Health Department encourages celebrating in new and socially distanced ways and making a small sacrifice to protect your loved ones.

It cannot be stressed enough the importance of staying home and only going out for essential tasks. Saline County continues to receive reports of alleged non-compliance with the Statewide Stay-at-Home order.

Alleged violations can be reported through our online submission form at <a href="http://www.saline.org">www.saline.org</a>. If you have a question about a business being essential or not, please visit the Governor’s website at <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/keff">https://governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see the order, list of essential functions, and frequently asked questions.

Help our community in stopping the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay at Home.

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Thursday.The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional positive cases of COVID-19 cases to report in Saline County.At 11 am, KDHE reported a total of 1106 confirmed cases in Kansas and 42 deaths. Saline County has a total of 8 positive cases.Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order is still in effect. KDHE provided statistics regarding three outbreaks were associated with religious gatherings. These gatherings have resulted in 10 to 25 positive cases each, 14 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths. Social distancing is imperative. During this time of multiple faith traditions and secular celebrations, the Saline County Health Department encourages celebrating in new and socially distanced ways and making a small sacrifice to protect your loved ones.It cannot be stressed enough the importance of staying home and only going out for essential tasks. Saline County continues to receive reports of alleged non-compliance with the Statewide Stay-at-Home order.Alleged violations can be reported through our online submission form at <a href="http://www.saline.org">www.saline.org</a>. If you have a question about a business being essential or not, please visit the Governor’s website at <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/keff">https://governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see the order, list of essential functions, and frequently asked questions.Help our community in stopping the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay at Home.

Saline County: No new COVID-19 cases confirmed

BELLEVILLE -- The Republic County Health Department announced today the county's fourth COVID-19 case, this time a child less than a year old.

According to a news release from the department, the child has no travel history and no underlying health conditions.

"Republic County Health Department is working to identify any close contacts of the individual and those who were exposed will be contacted as soon as possible," the department noted.

This was the fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in Republic County in six days. The first case, a man in his 70s with no travel history, but underlying health conditions, was reported on Saturday. The second case, a woman in her 60s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Monday. The third case, a man in his 70s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Wednesday.

On Monday, the Republic County Health Officer ordered that county residents who traveled to the following counties that have been identified by the Kansas Depatment of Health and Environment as "widespread community transfer areas" were subject to 14-day isolation and quarantine.

The order also noted that "any planned travel going forward will also incur the same order for isolation and quarantine."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586469315782.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BELLEVILLE -- The Republic County Health Department announced today the county's fourth COVID-19 case, this time a child less than a year old.According to a news release from the department, the child has no travel history and no underlying health conditions."Republic County Health Department is working to identify any close contacts of the individual and those who were exposed will be contacted as soon as possible," the department noted.This was the fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in Republic County in six days. The first case, a man in his 70s with no travel history, but underlying health conditions, was reported on Saturday. The second case, a woman in her 60s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Monday. The third case, a man in his 70s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Wednesday.On Monday, the Republic County Health Officer ordered that county residents who traveled to the following counties that have been identified by the Kansas Depatment of Health and Environment as "widespread community transfer areas" were subject to 14-day isolation and quarantine.Johnson CountyWyandotte CountyDouglas CountyLeavenworth CountySedgwick CountyCoffey CountyShawnee CountyThe order also noted that "any planned travel going forward will also incur the same order for isolation and quarantine."

Republic County: 4th case of COVID-19 an infant

Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C encourages those on the interstates to secure their loads, lest they lose valuable goods! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:

Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C encourages those on the interstates to secure their loads, lest they lose valuable goods! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fposts%2F2584689718512889&width=500" width="500" height="619" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

KHP Troop C: Secure your loads!

Salina USD 305 announced today that all K-12 students will begin using Google Classroom on Tuesday.

Following is a copy of the information sent to all USD 305 parents and guardians concerning the district's latest learning initiatives.

Beginning April 14, all K-12 instruction will be online using Google Classroom.&nbsp;All USD 305 students now have a Chromebook. At this time, we do&nbsp;not&nbsp;plan to have additional K-8 packet distributions.

Between April 6 and 10, teachers worked to connect online with every student. This allowed us to identify families who are without internet. By Monday, April 13 the district will contact the families we have identified as needing internet access. We remain committed to eliminating the lack of internet access as a barrier.

Transitioning learning from our school buildings to your home wouldn’t have been successful without your partnership.&nbsp;Thank you. Remember that your building principal and our teachers are available to answer questions and work with you to ensure we are meeting your student’s needs.&nbsp;USD 305 remains committed to supporting you and your student in the weeks ahead.

Below are some questions and answers that you may find helpful.

Linn&nbsp;Exline, USD 305 Superintendent&nbsp;

Should I expect my students to spend the same amount of time in class as when they went to a school?&nbsp;

No. We are following KSDE guidance. Elementary school students will spend 45 minutes to 90 minutes a day.&nbsp; Secondary students will spend about 2.5 hours a week per class.&nbsp;

Does every student have a Chromebook?&nbsp;

Yes. Every USD 305 student now has a Chromebook.&nbsp;

How do families get Chromebooks connected to their internet?&nbsp;

Families may find help documents on our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a>.&nbsp;Click the link for the&nbsp;Continuous Learning Resource Guide.&nbsp;For additional support, contact the teacher.

What is the budget impact of the Chromebooks for all K-12 students?&nbsp;

Providing a Chromebook to each student was budget neutral.&nbsp;At the high schools 1-to-1 was already in place. At middle school and elementary we were able to distribute classroom sets of Chromebooks to individual students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Will all students have internet access?

Yes. We have identified solutions for our families who didn’t have home internet access.

Are Grab-and-Go lunches still offered?&nbsp;

Yes. Lunches are available from 11:30-12:30, Monday-Friday.&nbsp;Please see our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a> for a list of locations.

Salina USD 305 announced today that all K-12 students will begin using Google Classroom on Tuesday.Following is a copy of the information sent to all USD 305 parents and guardians concerning the district's latest learning initiatives.Dear Parents and Guardians,Beginning April 14, all K-12 instruction will be online using Google Classroom.&nbsp;All USD 305 students now have a Chromebook. At this time, we do&nbsp;not&nbsp;plan to have additional K-8 packet distributions.Between April 6 and 10, teachers worked to connect online with every student. This allowed us to identify families who are without internet. By Monday, April 13 the district will contact the families we have identified as needing internet access. We remain committed to eliminating the lack of internet access as a barrier.Transitioning learning from our school buildings to your home wouldn’t have been successful without your partnership.&nbsp;Thank you. Remember that your building principal and our teachers are available to answer questions and work with you to ensure we are meeting your student’s needs.&nbsp;USD 305 remains committed to supporting you and your student in the weeks ahead.Below are some questions and answers that you may find helpful.Sincerely,Linn&nbsp;Exline, USD 305 Superintendent&nbsp;Should I expect my students to spend the same amount of time in class as when they went to a school?&nbsp;No. We are following KSDE guidance. Elementary school students will spend 45 minutes to 90 minutes a day.&nbsp; Secondary students will spend about 2.5 hours a week per class.&nbsp;Does every student have a Chromebook?&nbsp;Yes. Every USD 305 student now has a Chromebook.&nbsp;How do families get Chromebooks connected to their internet?&nbsp;Families may find help documents on our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a>.&nbsp;Click the link for the&nbsp;Continuous Learning Resource Guide.&nbsp;For additional support, contact the teacher.What is the budget impact of the Chromebooks for all K-12 students?&nbsp;Providing a Chromebook to each student was budget neutral.&nbsp;At the high schools 1-to-1 was already in place. At middle school and elementary we were able to distribute classroom sets of Chromebooks to individual students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Will all students have internet access?Yes. We have identified solutions for our families who didn’t have home internet access.Are Grab-and-Go lunches still offered?&nbsp;Yes. Lunches are available from 11:30-12:30, Monday-Friday.&nbsp;Please see our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a> for a list of locations.

USD 305: All K-12 students to begin using Google Classroom

Brookdale Salina Fairdale has set up an Inspiration Island to help cheer its residents who are unable to see their families during the COVID-19 pandemic and they need your help. Community members can leave letters, notes, pictures, etc., at the location or can use the chalk provided to draw on the concrete. From the Brookdale Salina Fairdale Facebook page:

Brookdale Salina Fairdale has set up an Inspiration Island to help cheer its residents who are unable to see their families during the COVID-19 pandemic and they need your help. Community members can leave letters, notes, pictures, etc., at the location or can use the chalk provided to draw on the concrete. From the Brookdale Salina Fairdale Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FBrookdaleSalinaFairdale%2Fposts%2F1907817756010014&width=500" width="500" height="706" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Brookdale asks community to help cheer residents

An investigation into an alleged armed robbery in northeastern Saline County on Feb. 23 has resulted in the arrests of five people in Salina, with a bonus arrest of someone on the county most-wanted list.

Saline County Sheriff's Lieutanant Jeremiah Hayes said this morning that deputies were dispatched to the 6000 block of North Cunningham Road at approximately 3 p.m. on Feb. 23 for the report of an armed robbery. Two victims were driven to that location by some of the alleged perpetrators while a second vehicle arrived at the scene with more alleged perpetrators to help with the robbery, Hayes said. The two victims were dragged from the vehicle and their money was stolen, he said. The suspects then got back in the vehicles and left the two victims at the location, Hayes explained. The victims walked to a nearby residence and called authorities, he added.

Because of information discovered during the investigation, two search warrants were executed on residences in two parts of Salina on Tuesday, Hayes said. The operation was conducted with the assistance of the Salina Police Department, he said.

During the execution of a search warrant at 844 Sheridan Street, Darren Jackson, 38, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.

Two counts of criminal possession of a firearm by a felon

During the execution of the second search warrant, at 2130 East Crawford Street apartment No. 309, two people -- Jesse Rick, 40, and Ana Ramos, 20 -- were arrested, Hayes said. Additionally, during the search, two handguns, one reported stolen from Wichita, and approximately a quarter pound of methamphetamine were located, he explained.

Rick was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.

Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute

Ana Ramos was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.

During the search, another suspect was seen entering the parking lot, but the vehicle took off, Hayes said. A felony stop was conducted on the vehicle at South Ohio Street and East Prescott Road, he said. A K9 was used during the search of the vehicle, and two handguns and three to four ounces of methamphetamine were located, Hayes said.

Heather Stebbins, 31, who also was a suspect in the alleged armed robbery, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.

Felony interference with a law enforcement officer

The driver of the black SUV, Armani Ramos, 29, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.

Criminal possession of a firearm by a felon

Two counts of possession of a Level 4 substance with intent to distribute (narcotic pills)

Possession of a Level 2 substance with intent to distribute (narcotic pills)

While law enforcement personnel were working at the 2130 East Crawford Street apartment No. 309 location, another person -- Troy Chambers, 44 -- who happened to be on the county's most-wanted list, knocked on the door and was arrested, Hayes said.

According to the Saline County Jail booking log, Chambers was arrested for failure to appear and on suspicion of possession of an opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and use/possession of drug paraphernalia.

An investigation into an alleged armed robbery in northeastern Saline County on Feb. 23 has resulted in the arrests of five people in Salina, with a bonus arrest of someone on the county most-wanted list.Saline County Sheriff's Lieutanant Jeremiah Hayes said this morning that deputies were dispatched to the 6000 block of North Cunningham Road at approximately 3 p.m. on Feb. 23 for the report of an armed robbery. Two victims were driven to that location by some of the alleged perpetrators while a second vehicle arrived at the scene with more alleged perpetrators to help with the robbery, Hayes said. The two victims were dragged from the vehicle and their money was stolen, he said. The suspects then got back in the vehicles and left the two victims at the location, Hayes explained. The victims walked to a nearby residence and called authorities, he added.Because of information discovered during the investigation, two search warrants were executed on residences in two parts of Salina on Tuesday, Hayes said. The operation was conducted with the assistance of the Salina Police Department, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586353970453.jpeg" alt="Darren Jackson. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Darren Jackson. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>During the execution of a search warrant at 844 Sheridan Street, Darren Jackson, 38, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.Aggravated robberyTwo counts of criminal possession of a firearm by a felonCriminal restraintDriving while suspended<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586352657694.jpeg" alt="Jesse Rick. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Jesse Rick. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>During the execution of the second search warrant, at 2130 East Crawford Street apartment No. 309, two people -- Jesse Rick, 40, and Ana Ramos, 20 -- were arrested, Hayes said. Additionally, during the search, two handguns, one reported stolen from Wichita, and approximately a quarter pound of methamphetamine were located, he explained.Rick was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.Aggravated robberyTwo counts of criminal possession of a firearm by a felonPossession of methamphetamine with intent to distributeFelony drug paraphernaliaKansas drug tax stamp violationPossession of drug paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586354398498.jpeg" alt="Ana Ramos. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Ana Ramos. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Ana Ramos was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.Felony drug paraphernaliaKansas drug tax stamp violationPossession of drug paraphernaliaDuring the search, another suspect was seen entering the parking lot, but the vehicle took off, Hayes said. A felony stop was conducted on the vehicle at South Ohio Street and East Prescott Road, he said. A K9 was used during the search of the vehicle, and two handguns and three to four ounces of methamphetamine were located, Hayes said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586354165521.jpeg" alt="Heather Stebbins. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Heather Stebbins. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Heather Stebbins, 31, who also was a suspect in the alleged armed robbery, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.Aggravated robberyTwo counts of criminal possession of a firearm by a felonFelony interference with a law enforcement officer<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586353576246.jpeg" alt="Armani Ramos. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Armani Ramos. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver of the black SUV, Armani Ramos, 29, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Hayes said.Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distributeFelony interference with a law enforcement officerCriminal possession of a firearm by a felonTwo counts of possession of a Level 4 substance with intent to distribute (narcotic pills)Possession of a Level 2 substance with intent to distribute (narcotic pills)Felony possession of drug paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586353696513.jpeg" alt="Troy Chambers. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Troy Chambers. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>While law enforcement personnel were working at the 2130 East Crawford Street apartment No. 309 location, another person -- Troy Chambers, 44 -- who happened to be on the county's most-wanted list, knocked on the door and was arrested, Hayes said.According to the Saline County Jail booking log, Chambers was arrested for failure to appear and on suspicion of possession of an opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and use/possession of drug paraphernalia.

Authorities arrest 5 in alleged armed robbery case

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said Thursday COVID-19 economic stimulus checks will be begin going out today, as government officials on the state and national level discuss additional assistance for businesses and individuals.&nbsp;

"The first set of checks will be deposited today," Moran said. "At the base level, Americans who earn less than $75,000 a year will get a $1,200 check."

He said the program is just getting started, and not everyone will receive the money on the first day, but disbursement will begin with people that have completed their 2018 and 2019 tax returns and have direct deposit information on file at the Internal Revenue Service.

"That's a start to help to tide over and help out people," Moran said.

SBA guaranteed loans are also being processed in an effort to assist businesses continue paying staff. Many of those loans he said will be forgiven if certain criteria are met.

"While the legislation we passed includes things I normally wouldn't be for, and this is a lot more government than I am historically willing to vote for and spends a lot more money than I&nbsp; would want us to spend and this is something that we can't continue to do, " Moran said, "these are serious times. Through no fault of their own people are finding themselves in pretty difficult circumstances."

He also said he hopes to see continued bipartisan measures to assist Americans, even though the legislation may not be perfect.

Moran also said he understands the push-back from some concerning stay-at-home measures, but said saving lives is paramount.

"I know Kansans. I am one of them. I have the same attitude that I don't want anyone telling me what to do, Moran siad.

"We certainly see the consequences of how our lives have changed by this stay-at-home order, by the social distancing and all of the steps we are trying to take," Moran said, "but I would say it is important to follow that procedure."

The number of people infected, and have died are not just numbers, Moran said, they are people.

He also warned that the peak infections in Kansas are not expected until April.

"I would certainly prefer to overreact, rather than explain to someone who has lost a loved one, why we didn't take the necessary steps," Moran said.

He said he is pushing for a COVID-19&nbsp; vaccine to be developed as quickly as possible and wants expanded testing to get people back to work and living more normal lives faster.

"This has to be something that we have to react to appropriately to get it to come to an end sooner rather than later," Moran said. 

Continuing to flatten the curve, with social distancing will allow the opportunity to help the health care sector get caught up with needed equipment and protective equipment, he said. More testing facilities are coming online more kits are being produced and sent out, he said.

"Our goal is to make sure anybody that wants to be tested can be tested by the end of summer," Moran said.

Expanded testing, he said, will ensure schools can be open next fall.

<div><iframe title="COVID-19 stimulus checks begin going out Thursday" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/st7fi-d8b532?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostU.S. Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said Thursday COVID-19 economic stimulus checks will be begin going out today, as government officials on the state and national level discuss additional assistance for businesses and individuals.&nbsp;"The first set of checks will be deposited today," Moran said. "At the base level, Americans who earn less than $75,000 a year will get a $1,200 check."He said the program is just getting started, and not everyone will receive the money on the first day, but disbursement will begin with people that have completed their 2018 and 2019 tax returns and have direct deposit information on file at the Internal Revenue Service."That's a start to help to tide over and help out people," Moran said.SBA guaranteed loans are also being processed in an effort to assist businesses continue paying staff. Many of those loans he said will be forgiven if certain criteria are met."While the legislation we passed includes things I normally wouldn't be for, and this is a lot more government than I am historically willing to vote for and spends a lot more money than I&nbsp; would want us to spend and this is something that we can't continue to do, " Moran said, "these are serious times. Through no fault of their own people are finding themselves in pretty difficult circumstances."He also said he hopes to see continued bipartisan measures to assist Americans, even though the legislation may not be perfect.Moran also said he understands the push-back from some concerning stay-at-home measures, but said saving lives is paramount."I know Kansans. I am one of them. I have the same attitude that I don't want anyone telling me what to do, Moran siad."We certainly see the consequences of how our lives have changed by this stay-at-home order, by the social distancing and all of the steps we are trying to take," Moran said, "but I would say it is important to follow that procedure."The number of people infected, and have died are not just numbers, Moran said, they are people.He also warned that the peak infections in Kansas are not expected until April."I would certainly prefer to overreact, rather than explain to someone who has lost a loved one, why we didn't take the necessary steps," Moran said.He said he is pushing for a COVID-19&nbsp; vaccine to be developed as quickly as possible and wants expanded testing to get people back to work and living more normal lives faster."This has to be something that we have to react to appropriately to get it to come to an end sooner rather than later," Moran said. Continuing to flatten the curve, with social distancing will allow the opportunity to help the health care sector get caught up with needed equipment and protective equipment, he said. More testing facilities are coming online more kits are being produced and sent out, he said."Our goal is to make sure anybody that wants to be tested can be tested by the end of summer," Moran said.Expanded testing, he said, will ensure schools can be open next fall.

🎤COVID-19 stimulus checks to begin being distributed Thursday

OCCK, Inc. is currently seeking a dedicated, compassionate, conscientious, self-motivated individual to work with adults who have disabilities. Direct Support Professional support customers in home environments and the community to establish positive routines, and for the enhancement of daily living skills. This educator/instructor will provide support and guidance in a mentor-style relationship for the achievement of individual goals. On the job training and certifications are provided.

Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/" target="_blank">www.occk.com</a>&nbsp;and learn more about our mission and great benefits

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576544829259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK, Inc. is currently seeking a dedicated, compassionate, conscientious, self-motivated individual to work with adults who have disabilities. Direct Support Professional support customers in home environments and the community to establish positive routines, and for the enhancement of daily living skills. This educator/instructor will provide support and guidance in a mentor-style relationship for the achievement of individual goals. On the job training and certifications are provided.Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/" target="_blank">www.occk.com</a>&nbsp;and learn more about our mission and great benefitsEOEDrug testing required

Police looking for bicycle, person who stole it

Freeze warnings have been issued for multiple counties in our area.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a freeze warning in effect from 4-8 a.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.

Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 27 are expected. 

Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing, NWS noted.

NWS in Topeka has issued a freeze warning in effect from 2-9 a.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.

Sub-freezing temperatures are expected, with lows falling to between 24 and 29.

Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.

A longer period of overnight lows falling below freezing is forecast for the first half of next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586438292623.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Freeze warnings have been issued for multiple counties in our area.The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a freeze warning in effect from 4-8 a.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountySub-freezing temperatures as low as 27 are expected. Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing, NWS noted.NWS in Topeka has issued a freeze warning in effect from 2-9 a.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountySub-freezing temperatures are expected, with lows falling to between 24 and 29.Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.A longer period of overnight lows falling below freezing is forecast for the first half of next week.

NWS issues freeze warnings for counties in our area

Thought provoking, indeed! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KSARNG/">Kansas Army National Guard</a> Facebook page:

Thought provoking, indeed! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KSARNG/">Kansas Army National Guard</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKSARNG%2Fposts%2F2934508473254635&width=500" width="500" height="632" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Kansas Army National Guard: Who do you choose to be?

Today is Thursday, April 9, the 100th day of 2020. There are 266 days left in the year.

On April 9, 1942, during World War II, some 75,000 Philippine and American defenders on Bataan surrendered to Japanese troops, who forced the prisoners into what became known as the Bataan Death March; thousands died or were killed en route.

In 1865, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.

In 1939, singer Marian Anderson performed a concert at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., after being denied the use of Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

In 1959, NASA presented its first seven astronauts: Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn, Gus Grissom, Wally Schirra, Alan Shepard and Donald Slayton. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, 91, died in Phoenix, Arizona.

In 1963, British statesman Winston Churchill was proclaimed an honorary U.S. citizen by President John F. Kennedy. (Churchill, unable to attend, watched the proceedings live on television in his London home.)

In 1968, funeral services, private and public, were held for Martin Luther King Jr. at the Ebenezer Baptist Church and Morehouse College in Atlanta, five days after the civil rights leader was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.

In 1979, officials declared an end to the crisis involving the Three Mile Island Unit 2 nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania, 12 days after a partial core meltdown.

In 1983, the space shuttle Challenger ended its first mission with a safe landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

In 1992, former Panamanian ruler Manuel Noriega was convicted in Miami of eight drug and racketeering charges; he served a 17-year U.S. prison sentence.

In 1996, Dan Rostenkowski, the once-powerful House Ways and Means chairman, pleaded guilty to two mail fraud charges in a deal that brought with it a 17-month prison term. (Rostenkowski served 15 months, and was pardoned by President Clinton in 2000.)

In 2003, jubilant Iraqis celebrated the collapse of Saddam Hussein's regime, beheading a toppled statue of their longtime ruler in downtown Baghdad and embracing American troops as liberators.

In 2005, Britain's Prince Charles married longtime love Camilla Parker Bowles, who took the title Duchess of Cornwall.

In 2009, North Korea's rubber-stamp parliament appointed Kim Jong Il to a third term as leader. Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, 22, and two others were killed in a car crash by a suspected drunken driver. (Andrew Thomas Gallo was convicted of three counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to 51 years to life in prison.)

Ten years ago: Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens announced his retirement. (His vacancy was filled by Elena Kagan.) Meinhardt Raabe, who'd played the Munchkin coroner in "The Wizard of Oz," died in Orange Park, Florida, at age 94.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama briefly visited Jamaica, where he met with Caribbean leaders and spoke at a town hall of young leaders; the president then flew to Panama City for a summit of Western Hemisphere nations and a historic encounter with Cuban President Raul Castro. Canadian-born filmmaker Paul Almond, 83, died in Los Angeles.

One year ago: Israelis voted in an election that would bring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a historic fifth term. Iranian lawmakers dressed in paramilitary uniforms chanted "Death to America" as they convened for an open session of parliament after the White House designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organization. Magic Johnson abruptly quit as the Los Angeles Lakers' president of basketball operations; the announcement came before the final game of the Lakers' sixth consecutive losing season.

Today's Birthdays: Satirical songwriter and mathematician Tom Lehrer is 92. Actor Jean-Paul Belmondo is 87. Actress Michael Learned is 81. Country singer Margo Smith is 78. Country singer Hal Ketchum is 67. Actor Dennis Quaid is 66. Comedian Jimmy Tingle is 65. Country musician Dave Innis (Restless Heart) is 61. Talk show host Joe Scarborough is 57. Actress-sports reporter Lisa Guerrero is 56. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is 56. Actor Mark Pellegrino is 55. Actress-model Paulina Porizkova is 55. Actress Cynthia Nixon is 54. Rock singer Kevin Martin (Candlebox) is 51. TV personality Sunny Anderson is 45. Rock singer Gerard Way (My Chemical Romance) is 43. Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam is 41. Rock musician Albert Hammond Jr. (The Strokes) is 40. Actor Charlie Hunnam is 40. Actor Ryan Northcott is 40. Actor Arlen Escarpeta is 39. Actor Jay Baruchel is 38. Actress Annie Funke is 35. Actor Jordan Masterson is 34. Actress Leighton Meester is 34. Actor-singer Jesse McCartney is 33. Rhythm-and-blues singer Jazmine Sullivan is 33. Actress Kristen Stewart is 30. Actress Elle Fanning is 22. Rapper Lil Nas X is 21. Actor Isaac Hempstead Wright is 21. Classical crossover singer Jackie Evancho is 20.

Thought for Today: "Thinking is like loving or dying. Each of us must do it for ourselves." — Josiah Royce, American philosopher (1855-1916).

<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>Today is Thursday, April 9, the 100th day of 2020. There are 266 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On April 9, 1942, during World War II, some 75,000 Philippine and American defenders on Bataan surrendered to Japanese troops, who forced the prisoners into what became known as the Bataan Death March; thousands died or were killed en route.On this date:In 1865, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.In 1939, singer Marian Anderson performed a concert at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., after being denied the use of Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution.In 1959, NASA presented its first seven astronauts: Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn, Gus Grissom, Wally Schirra, Alan Shepard and Donald Slayton. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, 91, died in Phoenix, Arizona.In 1963, British statesman Winston Churchill was proclaimed an honorary U.S. citizen by President John F. Kennedy. (Churchill, unable to attend, watched the proceedings live on television in his London home.)In 1968, funeral services, private and public, were held for Martin Luther King Jr. at the Ebenezer Baptist Church and Morehouse College in Atlanta, five days after the civil rights leader was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.In 1979, officials declared an end to the crisis involving the Three Mile Island Unit 2 nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania, 12 days after a partial core meltdown.In 1983, the space shuttle Challenger ended its first mission with a safe landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California.In 1992, former Panamanian ruler Manuel Noriega was convicted in Miami of eight drug and racketeering charges; he served a 17-year U.S. prison sentence.In 1996, Dan Rostenkowski, the once-powerful House Ways and Means chairman, pleaded guilty to two mail fraud charges in a deal that brought with it a 17-month prison term. (Rostenkowski served 15 months, and was pardoned by President Clinton in 2000.)In 2003, jubilant Iraqis celebrated the collapse of Saddam Hussein's regime, beheading a toppled statue of their longtime ruler in downtown Baghdad and embracing American troops as liberators.In 2005, Britain's Prince Charles married longtime love Camilla Parker Bowles, who took the title Duchess of Cornwall.In 2009, North Korea's rubber-stamp parliament appointed Kim Jong Il to a third term as leader. Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, 22, and two others were killed in a car crash by a suspected drunken driver. (Andrew Thomas Gallo was convicted of three counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to 51 years to life in prison.)Ten years ago: Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens announced his retirement. (His vacancy was filled by Elena Kagan.) Meinhardt Raabe, who'd played the Munchkin coroner in "The Wizard of Oz," died in Orange Park, Florida, at age 94.Five years ago: President Barack Obama briefly visited Jamaica, where he met with Caribbean leaders and spoke at a town hall of young leaders; the president then flew to Panama City for a summit of Western Hemisphere nations and a historic encounter with Cuban President Raul Castro. Canadian-born filmmaker Paul Almond, 83, died in Los Angeles.One year ago: Israelis voted in an election that would bring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a historic fifth term. Iranian lawmakers dressed in paramilitary uniforms chanted "Death to America" as they convened for an open session of parliament after the White House designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organization. Magic Johnson abruptly quit as the Los Angeles Lakers' president of basketball operations; the announcement came before the final game of the Lakers' sixth consecutive losing season.Today's Birthdays: Satirical songwriter and mathematician Tom Lehrer is 92. Actor Jean-Paul Belmondo is 87. Actress Michael Learned is 81. Country singer Margo Smith is 78. Country singer Hal Ketchum is 67. Actor Dennis Quaid is 66. Comedian Jimmy Tingle is 65. Country musician Dave Innis (Restless Heart) is 61. Talk show host Joe Scarborough is 57. Actress-sports reporter Lisa Guerrero is 56. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is 56. Actor Mark Pellegrino is 55. Actress-model Paulina Porizkova is 55. Actress Cynthia Nixon is 54. Rock singer Kevin Martin (Candlebox) is 51. TV personality Sunny Anderson is 45. Rock singer Gerard Way (My Chemical Romance) is 43. Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam is 41. Rock musician Albert Hammond Jr. (The Strokes) is 40. Actor Charlie Hunnam is 40. Actor Ryan Northcott is 40. Actor Arlen Escarpeta is 39. Actor Jay Baruchel is 38. Actress Annie Funke is 35. Actor Jordan Masterson is 34. Actress Leighton Meester is 34. Actor-singer Jesse McCartney is 33. Rhythm-and-blues singer Jazmine Sullivan is 33. Actress Kristen Stewart is 30. Actress Elle Fanning is 22. Rapper Lil Nas X is 21. Actor Isaac Hempstead Wright is 21. Classical crossover singer Jackie Evancho is 20.Thought for Today: "Thinking is like loving or dying. Each of us must do it for ourselves." — Josiah Royce, American philosopher (1855-1916).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- April 9

By BRIAN GRIMMETT, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansans-cant-gather-funerals-further-complicating-grief-during-covid-19-times">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kansas —&nbsp;Open the newspaper to <a href="https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/kansas/browse" target="_blank">the obituaries</a> and you’ll read a reflection of our times.

Private
 family graveside services planned. … Celebration of life at a later 
date.&nbsp; ... The memorial service will be live-streamed.

Across
 Kansas, people find themselves searching for ways to grieve for, 
remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones that have died, all
 during a time when they aren’t allowed to gather in large groups.

School
 buildings are closed. People are setting aside sports, concerts and 
church services. Some work from home. Kansans are effectively living 
under <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf" target="_blank">a statewide pause order</a>
 from the governor. But some are learning the harsh reality that you 
can’t put a pause on death and the grief that comes with it.

Funeral planning had fallen to Michael Webb, an economics teacher 
turned caregiver and grant writer from Wichita, when his mother and 
father died years before. But <a href="https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/wichita-ks/alan-webb-9097700" target="_blank">when he lost his brother, Alan</a>,
 about two weeks ago, the funeral home told him only 10 people could be 
there — Webb and his wife, six pallbearers, the minister and one lone 
guest.

“That’s not the funeral that my brother would want,” Webb said. “That’s not the funeral his friends would want.”

He
 ultimately decided to delay the funeral and only have a small graveside
 service, again, limited to 10 people. The cemetery told him the only 
available time they had was 4 days after Alan’s death, and they’d only 
be able to put out one seat.

“Alan deserved a really nice 
memorial service where his friends could come and celebrate with him,” 
Webb said. “And we will be planning that, we just don’t know when it’s 
going to be.”

Because of the limit on the number of people who 
can gather, Webb’s stepdaughter could only stand on the side of the road
 and wave goodbye as the casket left Wichita headed for a burial plot in
 Topeka.

“Some immediate families are over 10 people, which creates some problems,” said Pam Scott, executive director of the<a href="http://www.ksfda.wildapricot.org/" target="_blank"> Kansas Funeral Directors Association</a>. “(Funeral homes) are doing all they can to work with the families, and most families have been understanding.”

Funeral
 homes and mortuaries are deemed an essential service and are exempt 
from the governor’s stay-at-home order, but they still need to limit 
opportunities to spread the virus.

“It’s the unknown factor,” said Mack Smith, executive secretary at the <a href="https://ksbma.ks.gov/about-us" target="_blank">Kansas Board of Mortuary Arts</a>. “And funeral homes sure don’t want to have any of their people getting this nasty thing and spreading it to others.”

He said the agency has received a few calls from people upset or confused by the restrictions.

“Change
 is tough for a lot of us,” he said. “And not being able to sit down in a
 chapel and say goodbye to mom or dad or a friend — that’s a tough thing
 to do.”

Even alternatives such as delaying a service, maybe for months, can 
prevent people from fully grieving. Mary Rush lost her father right at 
the beginning of the outbreak in Kansas. Because her siblings live 
outside of the state, including two in Europe, it was impossible for 
them to get together — and phone calls just didn’t cut it.

“That 
peace is missing for us right now,” Rush said. “I don’t feel the impact 
of that every day. But it does come from time to time.”

The desire to slow the spread of COVID-19 hinders people who want to comfort those in mourning, too. At <a href="https://chapelhillwichita.org/" target="_blank">Chapel Hill United Methodist Church</a> in Wichita, the Rev. Jeff Gannon has had to work with grieving families over the phone, rather than his customary home visits.

“Normally,
 it’s face-to-face where I sit down with families and together we talk 
through the service and we plan and we cry and we laugh,” Gannon said.

Now,
 he and others wanting to provide comfort must be more creative. For 
him, that means sending a card, making a phone call, or maybe even 
simply saying a prayer. But he suggests it’s those kinds of things, even
 if imperfect or incomplete, that can fill grieving people with the hope
 needed to make it to the other side of a tough situation.

“Call 
it intuition, call it the Holy Spirit, call it whatever you want,” 
Gannon said, “but I urge people to follow up on those nudges, because 
more often than not that’s a way to connect at the most important time.”

Brian
 Grimmett reports on the environment, energy and natural resources for 
KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on 
Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a>&nbsp;or
 email him at grimmett@kmuw.org. The Kansas News Service is a
 collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public
 Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their 
connection to public policy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586271845095.jpeg" alt=" White Chapel Cemetery in Wichita. Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> White Chapel Cemetery in Wichita. Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIAN GRIMMETT, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansans-cant-gather-funerals-further-complicating-grief-during-covid-19-times">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kansas —&nbsp;Open the newspaper to <a href="https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/kansas/browse" target="_blank">the obituaries</a> and you’ll read a reflection of our times.Private
 family graveside services planned. … Celebration of life at a later 
date.&nbsp; ... The memorial service will be live-streamed.Across
 Kansas, people find themselves searching for ways to grieve for, 
remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones that have died, all
 during a time when they aren’t allowed to gather in large groups.School
 buildings are closed. People are setting aside sports, concerts and 
church services. Some work from home. Kansans are effectively living 
under <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf" target="_blank">a statewide pause order</a>
 from the governor. But some are learning the harsh reality that you 
can’t put a pause on death and the grief that comes with it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586271928603.jpeg" alt=" Alan Webb's high school graduation photo Credit Courtesy Michael Webb" />
 <figcaption> Alan Webb's high school graduation photo Credit Courtesy Michael Webb</figcaption>
 </figure>Funeral planning had fallen to Michael Webb, an economics teacher 
turned caregiver and grant writer from Wichita, when his mother and 
father died years before. But <a href="https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/wichita-ks/alan-webb-9097700" target="_blank">when he lost his brother, Alan</a>,
 about two weeks ago, the funeral home told him only 10 people could be 
there — Webb and his wife, six pallbearers, the minister and one lone 
guest.“That’s not the funeral that my brother would want,” Webb said. “That’s not the funeral his friends would want.”He
 ultimately decided to delay the funeral and only have a small graveside
 service, again, limited to 10 people. The cemetery told him the only 
available time they had was 4 days after Alan’s death, and they’d only 
be able to put out one seat.“Alan deserved a really nice 
memorial service where his friends could come and celebrate with him,” 
Webb said. “And we will be planning that, we just don’t know when it’s 
going to be.”Because of the limit on the number of people who 
can gather, Webb’s stepdaughter could only stand on the side of the road
 and wave goodbye as the casket left Wichita headed for a burial plot in
 Topeka.“Some immediate families are over 10 people, which creates some problems,” said Pam Scott, executive director of the<a href="http://www.ksfda.wildapricot.org/" target="_blank"> Kansas Funeral Directors Association</a>. “(Funeral homes) are doing all they can to work with the families, and most families have been understanding.”Funeral
 homes and mortuaries are deemed an essential service and are exempt 
from the governor’s stay-at-home order, but they still need to limit 
opportunities to spread the virus.“It’s the unknown factor,” said Mack Smith, executive secretary at the <a href="https://ksbma.ks.gov/about-us" target="_blank">Kansas Board of Mortuary Arts</a>. “And funeral homes sure don’t want to have any of their people getting this nasty thing and spreading it to others.”He said the agency has received a few calls from people upset or confused by the restrictions.“Change
 is tough for a lot of us,” he said. “And not being able to sit down in a
 chapel and say goodbye to mom or dad or a friend — that’s a tough thing
 to do.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586271955119.jpeg" alt=" White Chapel Cemetery in Wichita Credit Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> White Chapel Cemetery in Wichita Credit Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Even alternatives such as delaying a service, maybe for months, can 
prevent people from fully grieving. Mary Rush lost her father right at 
the beginning of the outbreak in Kansas. Because her siblings live 
outside of the state, including two in Europe, it was impossible for 
them to get together — and phone calls just didn’t cut it.“That 
peace is missing for us right now,” Rush said. “I don’t feel the impact 
of that every day. But it does come from time to time.”The desire to slow the spread of COVID-19 hinders people who want to comfort those in mourning, too. At <a href="https://chapelhillwichita.org/" target="_blank">Chapel Hill United Methodist Church</a> in Wichita, the Rev. Jeff Gannon has had to work with grieving families over the phone, rather than his customary home visits.“Normally,
 it’s face-to-face where I sit down with families and together we talk 
through the service and we plan and we cry and we laugh,” Gannon said.Now,
 he and others wanting to provide comfort must be more creative. For 
him, that means sending a card, making a phone call, or maybe even 
simply saying a prayer. But he suggests it’s those kinds of things, even
 if imperfect or incomplete, that can fill grieving people with the hope
 needed to make it to the other side of a tough situation.“Call 
it intuition, call it the Holy Spirit, call it whatever you want,” 
Gannon said, “but I urge people to follow up on those nudges, because 
more often than not that’s a way to connect at the most important time.”Brian
 Grimmett reports on the environment, energy and natural resources for 
KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on 
Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a>&nbsp;or
 email him at grimmett@kmuw.org. The Kansas News Service is a
 collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public
 Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their 
connection to public policy.

Kansans can't gather for funerals, further complicating grief

Here's Wednesday's COVID-19 update from Saline County.

The Saline County Health Department has been notified of one additional positive COVID-19 case in a Saline County resident.

• This case is a male in his 60’s with known contacts to a positive case.

This additional case brings the total to 8 in Saline County. At 4:30 pm, Governor Kelly reported a total of 1046 cases in Kansas and 38 deaths. This is an increase of 146 positive cases in Kansas from yesterday.

As Dr. Norman from KDHE stated in today’s press conference, this is the largest increase in positive cases and deaths in Kansas in a day. “We are about to enter into the peak of this pandemic, now is not the time to let your guard down,” he stated.

Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order 20-16 is still in effect. The Governor’s order does allow for restaurants and bars to provide curbside service, take out, and delivery only. Visit <a href="http://www.governor.kansas.gov/keff">www.governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see frequently asked questions on essential businesses and functions under the Governor’s order.

• The Department for Children and Families issued a press release announcing the steps their agency is taking to temporarily ease restrictions on Kansans who are currently receiving or applying for food assistance.

• We have begun to see an uptick in the amount of scam-like activity. Text messages with claims that a person is a close contact, selling of fake tests, fake stimulus check information, and robocalls. The Saline County Health Department will not send text messages to potential close contacts. Do not click on unknown links from unknown sources. Suspected scams can be reported to <a href="http://www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds">www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds</a>.

Here's Wednesday's COVID-19 update from Saline County.The Saline County Health Department has been notified of one additional positive COVID-19 case in a Saline County resident.• This case is a male in his 60’s with known contacts to a positive case.This additional case brings the total to 8 in Saline County. At 4:30 pm, Governor Kelly reported a total of 1046 cases in Kansas and 38 deaths. This is an increase of 146 positive cases in Kansas from yesterday.As Dr. Norman from KDHE stated in today’s press conference, this is the largest increase in positive cases and deaths in Kansas in a day. “We are about to enter into the peak of this pandemic, now is not the time to let your guard down,” he stated.Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order 20-16 is still in effect. The Governor’s order does allow for restaurants and bars to provide curbside service, take out, and delivery only. Visit <a href="http://www.governor.kansas.gov/keff">www.governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see frequently asked questions on essential businesses and functions under the Governor’s order.Announcements:• The Department for Children and Families issued a press release announcing the steps their agency is taking to temporarily ease restrictions on Kansans who are currently receiving or applying for food assistance.• We have begun to see an uptick in the amount of scam-like activity. Text messages with claims that a person is a close contact, selling of fake tests, fake stimulus check information, and robocalls. The Saline County Health Department will not send text messages to potential close contacts. Do not click on unknown links from unknown sources. Suspected scams can be reported to <a href="http://www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds">www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds</a>.Help our community in stopping the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay at Home.

Saline County reports 8th confirmed case of COVID-19

After a lengthy discussion and consideration of multiple options, the Saline County Commission on Tuesday voted unanimously to move forward with the greenfield site option for the Saline County Jail and to put a sales tax increase question on the November ballot.

Several options were given to Commissioners based on all of the extensive work that has occurred on this potential project over the last few years, according to information provided by the county. The options presented were as follows:

•Greenfield site with special election: A greenfield site is projected to be the least costly option for jail operations over the next 20 years. The incremental cost of additional staffing related to expanded bed capacity is projected at $61.01 million, with a cost savings of $1.18 million in non-personnel operational costs compared to continuing to occupy the current facility. This total cost of $59.83 million compares to a projected cost of $66.12 million for continuing to house increasing numbers of inmates outside of Saline County over the next 20 years. Holding a special election could speed up the schedule by approximately two months compared to waiting for the next general election and also provides a dedicated election cycle focused on one issue, helping minimize voter confusion and diverted attention.

•Greenfield site but combine with the November 2020 general election: This option has the potential to save $40,000 to $50,000 in election costs. However, each month of delay in the project start date is estimated to cost 0.4 to 0.5 percent of the project in terms of construction cost inflation. On a project of $89.65 million, this equates to between $740,000 and $896,500 for a two-month delay. In addition, combining the jail question onto an election that has a lot of other offices and issues on the ballot may risk voters overlooking the question.

•Two-site option: This option would allow for reuse of the existing jail site while also beginning the transition to a new, larger site. It would allow for future expansion at the new site to include Sheriff's patrol operations as well as eventual relocation of the entire jail. It is also the least-costly in terms of the project costs, although operational costs over a 20-year period are expected to be higher than the greenfield site option by $31.8 million.

•Remodel at current site: This option would eliminate the need for acquiring property in a new location. However, it is the most expensive option from an operational standpoint (more than double the cost of the greenfield option) while saving only $5.45 million in project costs compared to the greenfield option.

•No-build option: Continuing the current status quo would necessitate expenditure of approximately $8.935 million in renovations to the existing facility. In addition, as mentioned above, the cost of housing an ever-increased population of inmates outside of Saline County is anticipated to total $66.12 million over the next 20 years. Operationally, the Sheriff is concerned not just about the cost of out-of-county beds but also their availability.

•Delay a decision at the present time:  Given the current lack of certainty in the economy due to the coronavirus pandemic, the County could also delay making any decision and revisit this at a later time. However, as noted above, project costs for any of the build options are estimated to increase (based on historical construction cost patterns) at 5-6% per year or 0.4-0.5% per month. 

Commissioners discussed the jail project in length and providing their thoughts and concerns, the information noted.  All commissioners acknowledged that this project is one that will ultimately be decided upon by the voters of Saline County. At the end of the discussion, a motion was made by Commissioner Monte Shadwick to direct staff to move forward with the greenfield site option and for the question for a sales tax increase for the building of such to be combined with the November 2020 general election. This motion passed 5-0. 

Information about the jail project can be found on the county's website at <a href="http://www.saline.org/2020-jail-project">www.saline.org/2020-jail-project</a>.

Other items from Tuesday's county commission meeting include the following.

•Jason Tiller, Health Department director, provided an update to the commissioners on the COVID-19 pandemic.  Tiller noted that due to a majority of the cases in Saline County not having any association with recent travel to hot spot areas or no known direct contact with other positive cases, there is a strong indication that the county has community spread, meaning people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.  Commissioner Robert Vidricksen urged citizens to stay at home and only go out to do essential tasks.  

•Michelle Barkley, Emergency Management director, presented a resolution that would restrict burning in Saline County. This resolution is not a complete ban on burning, it does allow for agriculture burn permit holders to burn up to 360 acres per day. This will restrict those with an “SA” permit to not conduct burning in barrels, tree piles, or smaller burns. This restriction of burning will be in effect until April 30.

•Commissioners approved several asphalt pavement projects with an estimated cost of $1,273,625.85. Two projects are for asphalt overlays, two projects are for improvements to the asphalt approaches off gravel roadways, and three projects are for overlays on low water crossings in the county.

•Commissioners approved the addition of Teledoc services to the Saline County Health plan. This will expand services to Saline County employees to see a doctor virtually for non-emergent needs. The cost is $1.25 per month per employee that will be paid through the benefit trust fund and no additional costs to employees. 

•Phil Smith-Hanes, county administrator, announced the four recipients of the Oliver Hagg Memorial Scholarship. Jennie George, Abigail Johnson, Owen Bradley, and Trista Stevenson will each receive a $1,000 scholarship to be used towards their post-secondary education in pursuing agriculture-related studies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584487791224.jpeg" alt="The City-County Building. Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>The City-County Building. Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>After a lengthy discussion and consideration of multiple options, the Saline County Commission on Tuesday voted unanimously to move forward with the greenfield site option for the Saline County Jail and to put a sales tax increase question on the November ballot.Several options were given to Commissioners based on all of the extensive work that has occurred on this potential project over the last few years, according to information provided by the county. The options presented were as follows:•Greenfield site with special election: A greenfield site is projected to be the least costly option for jail operations over the next 20 years. The incremental cost of additional staffing related to expanded bed capacity is projected at $61.01 million, with a cost savings of $1.18 million in non-personnel operational costs compared to continuing to occupy the current facility. This total cost of $59.83 million compares to a projected cost of $66.12 million for continuing to house increasing numbers of inmates outside of Saline County over the next 20 years. Holding a special election could speed up the schedule by approximately two months compared to waiting for the next general election and also provides a dedicated election cycle focused on one issue, helping minimize voter confusion and diverted attention.•Greenfield site but combine with the November 2020 general election: This option has the potential to save $40,000 to $50,000 in election costs. However, each month of delay in the project start date is estimated to cost 0.4 to 0.5 percent of the project in terms of construction cost inflation. On a project of $89.65 million, this equates to between $740,000 and $896,500 for a two-month delay. In addition, combining the jail question onto an election that has a lot of other offices and issues on the ballot may risk voters overlooking the question.•Two-site option: This option would allow for reuse of the existing jail site while also beginning the transition to a new, larger site. It would allow for future expansion at the new site to include Sheriff's patrol operations as well as eventual relocation of the entire jail. It is also the least-costly in terms of the project costs, although operational costs over a 20-year period are expected to be higher than the greenfield site option by $31.8 million.•Remodel at current site: This option would eliminate the need for acquiring property in a new location. However, it is the most expensive option from an operational standpoint (more than double the cost of the greenfield option) while saving only $5.45 million in project costs compared to the greenfield option.•No-build option: Continuing the current status quo would necessitate expenditure of approximately $8.935 million in renovations to the existing facility. In addition, as mentioned above, the cost of housing an ever-increased population of inmates outside of Saline County is anticipated to total $66.12 million over the next 20 years. Operationally, the Sheriff is concerned not just about the cost of out-of-county beds but also their availability.•Delay a decision at the present time: Given the current lack of certainty in the economy due to the coronavirus pandemic, the County could also delay making any decision and revisit this at a later time. However, as noted above, project costs for any of the build options are estimated to increase (based on historical construction cost patterns) at 5-6% per year or 0.4-0.5% per month. Commissioners discussed the jail project in length and providing their thoughts and concerns, the information noted. All commissioners acknowledged that this project is one that will ultimately be decided upon by the voters of Saline County. At the end of the discussion, a motion was made by Commissioner Monte Shadwick to direct staff to move forward with the greenfield site option and for the question for a sales tax increase for the building of such to be combined with the November 2020 general election. This motion passed 5-0. Information about the jail project can be found on the county's website at <a href="http://www.saline.org/2020-jail-project">www.saline.org/2020-jail-project</a>. Other items from Tuesday's county commission meeting include the following.•Jason Tiller, Health Department director, provided an update to the commissioners on the COVID-19 pandemic. Tiller noted that due to a majority of the cases in Saline County not having any association with recent travel to hot spot areas or no known direct contact with other positive cases, there is a strong indication that the county has community spread, meaning people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected. Commissioner Robert Vidricksen urged citizens to stay at home and only go out to do essential tasks. •Michelle Barkley, Emergency Management director, presented a resolution that would restrict burning in Saline County. This resolution is not a complete ban on burning, it does allow for agriculture burn permit holders to burn up to 360 acres per day. This will restrict those with an “SA” permit to not conduct burning in barrels, tree piles, or smaller burns. This restriction of burning will be in effect until April 30.•Commissioners approved several asphalt pavement projects with an estimated cost of $1,273,625.85. Two projects are for asphalt overlays, two projects are for improvements to the asphalt approaches off gravel roadways, and three projects are for overlays on low water crossings in the county.•Commissioners approved the addition of Teledoc services to the Saline County Health plan. This will expand services to Saline County employees to see a doctor virtually for non-emergent needs. The cost is $1.25 per month per employee that will be paid through the benefit trust fund and no additional costs to employees. •Phil Smith-Hanes, county administrator, announced the four recipients of the Oliver Hagg Memorial Scholarship. Jennie George, Abigail Johnson, Owen Bradley, and Trista Stevenson will each receive a $1,000 scholarship to be used towards their post-secondary education in pursuing agriculture-related studies.

County selects greenfield site option for jail

MCPHERSON -- This morning, the McPherson County Health Department announced the 12th confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county.

The 11th case was reported Tuesday evening. This person is a woman in her 30s who is recovering in isolation at home, according to information from the health department. 

"This case has an identified exposure to the known facility with a cluster. McPherson County Health Department and key partners continue to actively investigate contacts and additional exposures. If you are an identified contact, you will be directly reached out to by local health officials. At this time, nothing further will be released about the patient," the health department noted.

The 12th case is a female in her 20s, the health department reported.

MCPHERSON -- This morning, the McPherson County Health Department announced the 12th confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county.The 11th case was reported Tuesday evening. This person is a woman in her 30s who is recovering in isolation at home, according to information from the health department. "This case has an identified exposure to the known facility with a cluster. McPherson County Health Department and key partners continue to actively investigate contacts and additional exposures. If you are an identified contact, you will be directly reached out to by local health officials. At this time, nothing further will be released about the patient," the health department noted.The 12th case is a female in her 20s, the health department reported."This case has an identified exposure to the known facility with a cluster. McPherson County Health Department and key partners continue to actively investigate contacts and additional exposures. If you are an identified contact, you will be directly reached out to by local health officials. At this time, nothing further will be released about the patient," the health department noted.

McPherson County: Up to 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19

MANKATO -- The Jewell County Health Department announced today a second confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county.

The case identified in Jewell County is a male over the age of 70 who was in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case outside of Jewell County, a news release from the Jewell County Health Department noted. The man in Jewell County is maintaining in-home isolation and is stable, according to the release.

"Jewell County Health Department is working to identify any close contacts of the individual and those who were exposed will be contacted as soon as possible. We will be monitoring these contacts for fever and respiratory symptoms," the release noted.

MANKATO -- The Jewell County Health Department announced today a second confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county.The case identified in Jewell County is a male over the age of 70 who was in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case outside of Jewell County, a news release from the Jewell County Health Department noted. The man in Jewell County is maintaining in-home isolation and is stable, according to the release."Jewell County Health Department is working to identify any close contacts of the individual and those who were exposed will be contacted as soon as possible. We will be monitoring these contacts for fever and respiratory symptoms," the release noted.

Jewell County confirms 2nd case of COVID-19

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A woman who ran a Kansas town's post office was sentenced to probation for stealing gift cards from the mail. 

Stacy Vasko was sentenced Tuesday to three years of probation for a misdemeanor count of obstructing mail. She was also ordered to pay $200 in restitution. 

Vasko intially was charged last summer with two counts of mail theft by a postal employee. 

She was living in Salina and was the only employee in the Brookville post office when the thefts occurred. She was caught after a postal investigator determined Vasko had used a gift card taken from a birthday card that went through the Brookville office.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A woman who ran a Kansas town's post office was sentenced to probation for stealing gift cards from the mail. Stacy Vasko was sentenced Tuesday to three years of probation for a misdemeanor count of obstructing mail. She was also ordered to pay $200 in restitution. Vasko intially was charged last summer with two counts of mail theft by a postal employee. She was living in Salina and was the only employee in the Brookville post office when the thefts occurred. She was caught after a postal investigator determined Vasko had used a gift card taken from a birthday card that went through the Brookville office.

Kansas postal employee sentenced for stealing gift cards

A man wanted in connection with an aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer was located Tuesday at a north Salina motel.

At approximately 2:50 a.m. on March 31, officers were sent to a central Salina residence for the report of a loud vehicle in the driveway, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. When officers arrived, they found a white 2002 GMC Envoy running in the driveway and a man in the passenger seat who appeared to be unconscious. The vehicle was registered to Shane Garrett, 42, of Salina, and officers determined that Garrett was the man in the vehicle.

According to Forrester, officers attempted to wake Garrett by several means, but were unable to do so. EMS personnel were summoned and officers broke the passenger side rear window of the vehicle to gain access to Garrett. Garrett then woke up, quickly moved into the driver's seat, put the Envoy in reverse, and recklessly backed out of the driveway, nearly striking an officer, Forrester explained. 

The Envoy accelerated rapidly and drove off, and officers were unable to immediately locate the vehicle or Garrett.

At approximately 8 a.m. Tuesday, an officer observed a white 2002 Envoy pull into the parking lot of the Budget King Motel, 809 North Broadway Boulevard. The vehicle had on it a license plate stolen out of Sedgwick County, Forrester noted. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586352774684.jpeg" alt="Shane Garrett. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Shane Garrett. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A man wanted in connection with an aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer was located Tuesday at a north Salina motel.At approximately 2:50 a.m. on March 31, officers were sent to a central Salina residence for the report of a loud vehicle in the driveway, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. When officers arrived, they found a white 2002 GMC Envoy running in the driveway and a man in the passenger seat who appeared to be unconscious. The vehicle was registered to Shane Garrett, 42, of Salina, and officers determined that Garrett was the man in the vehicle.According to Forrester, officers attempted to wake Garrett by several means, but were unable to do so. EMS personnel were summoned and officers broke the passenger side rear window of the vehicle to gain access to Garrett. Garrett then woke up, quickly moved into the driver's seat, put the Envoy in reverse, and recklessly backed out of the driveway, nearly striking an officer, Forrester explained. The Envoy accelerated rapidly and drove off, and officers were unable to immediately locate the vehicle or Garrett.At approximately 8 a.m. Tuesday, an officer observed a white 2002 Envoy pull into the parking lot of the Budget King Motel, 809 North Broadway Boulevard. The vehicle had on it a license plate stolen out of Sedgwick County, Forrester noted. Officers viewed the surveillance video from the motel and observed Garrett exiting the vehicle and running toward the northwest corner of the parking lot. Motel staff told officers that Garrett was renting a room in the motel, Forrester explained. Officers went to room No. 16 and found a female and another male, Cassius Johnson, 37, of Salina, in the room.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586353274007.jpeg" alt="Cassius Johnson. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Cassius Johnson. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Forrester, Johnson had an outstanding warrant through Saline County District Court for aggravated battery and felon in possession of a weapon and a Salina Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear. He was not cooperative and officers had to enter the room and take him into custody, Forrester noted.Garrett was found hiding in a nearby car and was taken into custody, Forrester explained.Garrett was arrested on suspicion of the following for the March 31 incident, Forrester noted.Aggravated assaultFelony interference with a law enforcement officerReckless drivingDriving while suspendedFailure to stop at a stop signRacing on highwaysImproper turn signalNo vehicle registrationDisturbing the peace.Additionally, Garrett was arrested on suspicion of the following for the Tuesday incident, Forrester noted.Possession of a stimulantFelony possession of drug paraphernaliaCriminal trespassingPossession of stolen propertyDriving while suspendedNo vehicle registrationNo proof of insuranceAccording to Forrester, Johnson was arrested on his warrants and on suspicion of felony interference with a law enforcement officer.

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