

HAYS – Area students are among the 21 who will serve as VIP Student Ambassadors for the 2020-2021 academic school year at Fort Hays State University.

Six returning ambassadors will be joined by 15 new ambassadors.

Ambassadors serve as official representatives for FHSU at a variety of special events, including Homecoming, athletic activities, presidential dinners and other gatherings. Students must be full-time undergraduate students with a minimum 2.5 grade point average and be able to assist with nine to 10 events per year.

Ambassadors, with classifications, majors and high schools, are listed by hometown.

Zoe Cooper, a sophomore majoring in tourism and hospitality management, is an Abilene High School graduate.

Trevor Meyer, a senior majoring in management information systems, is an Andale High School graduate.

Ryan Stanley, a senior majoring in management, is a Bennington High School graduate.

Isabel Rosales, a senior majoring in biology, is a Colby Community College transfer student.

Kellyn Wahlmeier, a junior majoring in communication sciences and disorders, is a Colby High School graduate.

Jennifer Gonzalez, a junior majoring in technology studies, is a Dodge City High School graduate.

Ryan Schultz, a senior majoring in psychology, is a Spearville High School graduate.

Haley Reiter, a sophomore majoring in tourism and hospitality management, is an Ellis High School graduate.

Jeanae Brungardt, a junior majoring in organizational leadership, is an Ellsworth High School graduate.

Audrey Muth, a sophomore majoring in agriculture, is a Great Bend High School graduate.

Sierra Eichman, a senior majoring in biology, is a Hays High School graduate.

&nbsp;Brady Stephenson, a senior majoring in finance, is a Little River High School graduate.

Audra Boerger, a senior majoring in marketing, is an Elyria Christian School graduate.

Brandon Pfizenmaier, a sophomore majoring in accounting, is an Ottawa High School graduate.

David Schulte, a junior majoring in finance, is a graduate of Halstead High School.

Kimberly Stone, a sophomore majoring in political science, is a Stanford University Online High School graduate.

Rose Reilly, a sophomore majoring in biology, is a Lawrence Virtual High School graduate.

William Barfield, a sophomore majoring in communication, is a Wichita East High School graduate.

John Egan, a senior majoring in finance, is a Wichita Collegiate School graduate.



Renee Alexander, a junior majoring in management, is a Woodland Park High School graduate.

Carmen Fanning, a senior majoring in biology, is a Summit Christian Academy graduate.

HAYS – Area students are among the 21 who will serve as VIP Student Ambassadors for the 2020-2021 academic school year at Fort Hays State University.Six returning ambassadors will be joined by 15 new ambassadors.Ambassadors serve as official representatives for FHSU at a variety of special events, including Homecoming, athletic activities, presidential dinners and other gatherings. Students must be full-time undergraduate students with a minimum 2.5 grade point average and be able to assist with nine to 10 events per year.Ambassadors, with classifications, majors and high schools, are listed by hometown.ABILENEZoe Cooper, a sophomore majoring in tourism and hospitality management, is an Abilene High School graduate.ANDALETrevor Meyer, a senior majoring in management information systems, is an Andale High School graduate.BENNINGTONRyan Stanley, a senior majoring in management, is a Bennington High School graduate.COLBYIsabel Rosales, a senior majoring in biology, is a Colby Community College transfer student.Kellyn Wahlmeier, a junior majoring in communication sciences and disorders, is a Colby High School graduate.DODGE CITYJennifer Gonzalez, a junior majoring in technology studies, is a Dodge City High School graduate.Ryan Schultz, a senior majoring in psychology, is a Spearville High School graduate.ELLISHaley Reiter, a sophomore majoring in tourism and hospitality management, is an Ellis High School graduate.ELLSWORTHJeanae Brungardt, a junior majoring in organizational leadership, is an Ellsworth High School graduate.GREAT BENDAudrey Muth, a sophomore majoring in agriculture, is a Great Bend High School graduate.HAYSSierra Eichman, a senior majoring in biology, is a Hays High School graduate.LITTLE RIVER&nbsp;Brady Stephenson, a senior majoring in finance, is a Little River High School graduate.McPHERSONAudra Boerger, a senior majoring in marketing, is an Elyria Christian School graduate.OTTAWABrandon Pfizenmaier, a sophomore majoring in accounting, is an Ottawa High School graduate.SEDGWICK David Schulte, a junior majoring in finance, is a graduate of Halstead High School.STILWELLKimberly Stone, a sophomore majoring in political science, is a Stanford University Online High School graduate.TONGANOXIERose Reilly, a sophomore majoring in biology, is a Lawrence Virtual High School graduate.WICHITAWilliam Barfield, a sophomore majoring in communication, is a Wichita East High School graduate.John Egan, a senior majoring in finance, is a Wichita Collegiate School graduate.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.Renee Alexander, a junior majoring in management, is a Woodland Park High School graduate.LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo.Carmen Fanning, a senior majoring in biology, is a Summit Christian Academy graduate.

Area students among FHSU VIP Student Ambassadors

A local insurance agency has a plan to give back and help out during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Krissy Blochlinger &amp; Associates Allstate Agency will be donating Little Caesars pizza to the public from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Friday while supplies last. The pizza distribution will be at the agency, 2103 South Ohio Street.

"With everything going on in the world right now with COVID-19, the other agents and I were trying to think of a way to give back and help out. Kids are out of school, parents are being laid off. What’s better than free pizza? It’s just one less meal families will have to worry about," Blochlinger told Salina Post.

The pizza distribution will be limited to one pizza per family, Blochlinger noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585243486862.jpeg" alt="From left, Aubrey Jayne, Krissy Blochlinger, Elizabeth Abel, Gilberto Gonzalez. Photo courtesy the&nbsp;Krissy Blochlinger &amp; Associates Allstate Agency" />
 <figcaption>From left, Aubrey Jayne, Krissy Blochlinger, Elizabeth Abel, Gilberto Gonzalez. Photo courtesy the&nbsp;Krissy Blochlinger &amp; Associates Allstate Agency</figcaption>
 </figure>A local insurance agency has a plan to give back and help out during the COVID-19 pandemic.The Krissy Blochlinger &amp; Associates Allstate Agency will be donating Little Caesars pizza to the public from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Friday while supplies last. The pizza distribution will be at the agency, 2103 South Ohio Street."With everything going on in the world right now with COVID-19, the other agents and I were trying to think of a way to give back and help out. Kids are out of school, parents are being laid off. What’s better than free pizza? It’s just one less meal families will have to worry about," Blochlinger told Salina Post.The pizza distribution will be limited to one pizza per family, Blochlinger noted.

Local insurance agency plans to distribute free pizza

MARQUETTE -- In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Marquette has closed all of its playgrounds effective today. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CityofMarquetteKS/">City of Marquette KS</a> Facebook page:

MARQUETTE -- In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Marquette has closed all of its playgrounds effective today. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CityofMarquetteKS/">City of Marquette KS</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FCityofMarquetteKS%2Fposts%2F495797771301466&width=500" width="500" height="680" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Marquette closes its playgrounds, open-space parks still open

K-State Research and Extension is offering a series of free online gatherings for agriculture producers and agribusiness owners concerning the economics of agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The online events will be Thursday evenings via Zoom. The topics include the following.

Further Updates on the Macroeconomy -- Thursday, March 26 at 7 p.m.

Grain Markets and Planting Intentions -- Thursday, April 2 at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

Ongoing Effects on Livestock Markets -- Thursday, April 9 at 7 p.m.

Effects on Land Values -- Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m.

In addition to the primary topics, specialists will be available to help answer questions and to discuss other topics. Each online gathering will include a short presentation and the opportunity for participants to discuss and ask questions.

Registration is required and limited to the first 300 people. For more information or to access the registration information, click here.

K-State Research and Extension is offering a series of free online gatherings for agriculture producers and agribusiness owners concerning the economics of agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic.The online events will be Thursday evenings via Zoom. The topics include the following.Further Updates on the Macroeconomy -- Thursday, March 26 at 7 p.m.Grain Markets and Planting Intentions -- Thursday, April 2 at 7 p.m.&nbsp;Ongoing Effects on Livestock Markets -- Thursday, April 9 at 7 p.m.Effects on Land Values -- Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m.In addition to the primary topics, specialists will be available to help answer questions and to discuss other topics. Each online gathering will include a short presentation and the opportunity for participants to discuss and ask questions.Registration is required and limited to the first 300 people. For more information or to access the registration information, click here.

KSRE offering series of free online ag gatherings

Police are looking for a man who brandished a handgun along South Broadway Boulevard Wednesday afternoon.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that a 32-year-old Salina man was driving south on South Broadway Boulevard when a red Dodge Ram 1500 with a John Deere mower in the back pulled out in front of him, causing him to slam on his brakes to avoid being hit. The incident aggravated the man, who then drove past the pickup and gave the driver the middle finger, Forrester said. 

The two vehicles continued south on South Broadway Boulevard with the pickup pulling in behind the other vehicle as they approached the red light at West Crawford Street. While waiting at the light, the 32-year-old man looked in his rearview mirror and saw the driver of the pickup brandishing a black handgun, Forrester said.

The pickup continued to follow the man to his home on Plaza Drive. When the man got out of his vehicle, the red pickup pulled up and the two men exchanged words before the pickup drove away, Forrester said.

The driver of the pickup was described as a white male 60-75 years of age who was wearing glasses and a dirty blue ball cap, Forrester said. 

Police are looking for a man who brandished a handgun along South Broadway Boulevard Wednesday afternoon.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that a 32-year-old Salina man was driving south on South Broadway Boulevard when a red Dodge Ram 1500 with a John Deere mower in the back pulled out in front of him, causing him to slam on his brakes to avoid being hit. The incident aggravated the man, who then drove past the pickup and gave the driver the middle finger, Forrester said. The two vehicles continued south on South Broadway Boulevard with the pickup pulling in behind the other vehicle as they approached the red light at West Crawford Street. While waiting at the light, the 32-year-old man looked in his rearview mirror and saw the driver of the pickup brandishing a black handgun, Forrester said.The pickup continued to follow the man to his home on Plaza Drive. When the man got out of his vehicle, the red pickup pulled up and the two men exchanged words before the pickup drove away, Forrester said.The driver of the pickup was described as a white male 60-75 years of age who was wearing glasses and a dirty blue ball cap, Forrester said.

Police looking for pickup driver who brandished gun

Here's a fun activity for those stuck at home. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rollinghillszoo/">Rolling Hills Zoo</a> Facebook page:

Here's a fun activity for those stuck at home. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rollinghillszoo/">Rolling Hills Zoo</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Frollinghillszoo%2Fvideos%2F198948428077008%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="487" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Rolling Hills Zoo offering virtual fun

LINDSBORG -- When Bethany College classes resume on Monday, they will do so remotely.

On Wednesday, Bethany College Interim President Elizabeth Mauch announced that all classes for the Spring 2020 semester will be held in a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to information from the college. 

Previously, the college hoped for a hybrid approach with the return of some students, in accordance with health guidelines, and virtual attendance for others. 

Bethany officials monitored the ever-changing health guidelines, while simultaneously adapting plans to address the situation. After consultation with health officials, including the county health director, it was determined virtual classes would be the most prudent way to alleviate the potential for concerns such as overburdened health facilities, or spread of COVID-19. As such, students were notified that they would not be permitted to return to campus for face-to-face classes and were given further instruction on the processes and conditions in place for obtaining personal belongings from campus. 

Bethany will offer student services -- such as library resources lists specific to academic departments, career services, pastoral support, tutoring and counseling services -- in a virtual format. The college acknowledges the question as to whether refunds will be given and is working on various considerations with plans to announce a decision in the near future, the Bethany release noted.

Many college employees are transitioning to work remotely, yet some continue to work on campus as necessitated by campus needs, but do so in accordance with local health guidelines. Many non-administrative campus buildings are locked and the college strongly encourages all college business to be conducted by phone or email. If absolutely necessary, entry into administrative buildings will be conditioned on compliance with local health guidelines, provisions of which are posted on the main entrance for each building. 

Bethany officials have not made a decision about whether to hold commencement ceremonies, but all other campus or college sponsored events have been postponed or canceled. For up to date information visit <a href="http://www.bethanylb.edu">www.bethanylb.edu</a>.

LINDSBORG -- When Bethany College classes resume on Monday, they will do so remotely.On Wednesday, Bethany College Interim President Elizabeth Mauch announced that all classes for the Spring 2020 semester will be held in a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to information from the college. Previously, the college hoped for a hybrid approach with the return of some students, in accordance with health guidelines, and virtual attendance for others. Bethany officials monitored the ever-changing health guidelines, while simultaneously adapting plans to address the situation. After consultation with health officials, including the county health director, it was determined virtual classes would be the most prudent way to alleviate the potential for concerns such as overburdened health facilities, or spread of COVID-19. As such, students were notified that they would not be permitted to return to campus for face-to-face classes and were given further instruction on the processes and conditions in place for obtaining personal belongings from campus. Bethany will offer student services -- such as library resources lists specific to academic departments, career services, pastoral support, tutoring and counseling services -- in a virtual format. The college acknowledges the question as to whether refunds will be given and is working on various considerations with plans to announce a decision in the near future, the Bethany release noted.Many college employees are transitioning to work remotely, yet some continue to work on campus as necessitated by campus needs, but do so in accordance with local health guidelines. Many non-administrative campus buildings are locked and the college strongly encourages all college business to be conducted by phone or email. If absolutely necessary, entry into administrative buildings will be conditioned on compliance with local health guidelines, provisions of which are posted on the main entrance for each building. Bethany officials have not made a decision about whether to hold commencement ceremonies, but all other campus or college sponsored events have been postponed or canceled. For up to date information visit <a href="http://www.bethanylb.edu">www.bethanylb.edu</a>.

Bethany moves to virtual format for rest of spring semester



Education is “standing down” across the globe to slow the contagion of COVID-19. Many schools are shuttered. And despite the efforts of teachers in affluent countries using online education, there is a lot less learning going on. How much will this affect the progress of world civilization?

There is a concept in medicine abbreviated “YPLL” for “years of potential life lost.” YPLL explains why pediatricians might be happier than gerontologists. Save the life of a baby and you have potentially saved 60 or more years of life. Save the life of an elderly person and you have perhaps given them another five or ten years of life. That is not to say that we should not work to save the elderly. But it is true that saving a baby’s life usually results in saving far more years of potential life.

The YPLL math formula is used in making decisions on funding medical research and drug development. Factors that cause death in the elderly have less of an effect on the wellness of an overall population than do factors that cause childhood fatalities and disabilities.

In medical epidemiology, YPLL is a mathematical measure of the loss of life in a population due to various accidents, diseases, etc. Expected lifespan varies from high ages in Japan and Italy to lower life expectancies in the tropics with alligators and tropical diseases.&nbsp; YPLL is calculated by identifying a “standard” age of survival (often 65) and then measures the lost years when a child dies from a childhood disease (if age 5, YPLL = 60). Or if an adult has a heart attack at age 50, YPLL = 15. So YPLL can estimate the toll that a particular ailment takes on a population.

In its most simple form, years are considered equal. However, “time discounting” or non-uniform age weights can be used to devalue the years lived in infancy and old age, as in Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY). Years lost to disability (YLD) considers the decreased quality of life rather than just age at death.&nbsp; Such calculations help measure the medical health of a population.

But now we face the reality that around the world, our educational systems are shutting down or&nbsp; dramatically slowing while teachers attempt to provide some distance learning. Here I propose a related measure: Years of Potential Intellectual Life Lost (YPILL). &nbsp;

This would estimate the extent of damage done to a population when portions of the population are reduced or eliminated based on their educational level and potential to contribute intellectually to that society, or when educational efforts for students are curtailed by school closures, war, etc.

Long before this crisis, I did back-of-the-envelope calculations based on some major educational tragedies elsewhere in world history.

—In Cambodia, the Khmer Rouge specifically killed teachers, doctors and their most educated citizenry.&nbsp; Cambodia has still not recovered.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

—In the People’s Republic of China, from 1965 to 1977, nearly all schools were closed resulting in a generation of uneducated students. Their opening up and massive funding of education pulled them forward dramatically, but it left behind a lost generation.

—And currently in the Middle East, large populations of Syrian refugees lack schooling for their children.

All of these situations can be subjected to mathematical analysis to measure how much this loss of educated citizens slows down or retards the quality of life for future generations.&nbsp; But the above examples are “over there” and not here in the United States. Now, we join in as the whole world “stands down” to prevent an epidemic from exceeding our medical capacity. And that means standing down education.

There is a Peanuts cartoon where Linus is in bed with a thermometer in his mouth, protesting that when he returns to school, everyone will know that he is “one day dumber.” Of course, no one would consider a child who misses a day of school to be seriously “dumber.” But now we are looking at millions of school days of learning lost worldwide—a huge amount of potential intellectual life lost. —And a world that is a lot more than one day dumber.&nbsp;&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 SCHROCK

Education is “standing down” across the globe to slow the contagion of COVID-19. Many schools are shuttered. And despite the efforts of teachers in affluent countries using online education, there is a lot less learning going on. How much will this affect the progress of world civilization?There is a concept in medicine abbreviated “YPLL” for “years of potential life lost.” YPLL explains why pediatricians might be happier than gerontologists. Save the life of a baby and you have potentially saved 60 or more years of life. Save the life of an elderly person and you have perhaps given them another five or ten years of life. That is not to say that we should not work to save the elderly. But it is true that saving a baby’s life usually results in saving far more years of potential life.The YPLL math formula is used in making decisions on funding medical research and drug development. Factors that cause death in the elderly have less of an effect on the wellness of an overall population than do factors that cause childhood fatalities and disabilities.In medical epidemiology, YPLL is a mathematical measure of the loss of life in a population due to various accidents, diseases, etc. Expected lifespan varies from high ages in Japan and Italy to lower life expectancies in the tropics with alligators and tropical diseases.&nbsp; YPLL is calculated by identifying a “standard” age of survival (often 65) and then measures the lost years when a child dies from a childhood disease (if age 5, YPLL = 60). Or if an adult has a heart attack at age 50, YPLL = 15. So YPLL can estimate the toll that a particular ailment takes on a population.In its most simple form, years are considered equal. However, “time discounting” or non-uniform age weights can be used to devalue the years lived in infancy and old age, as in Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY). Years lost to disability (YLD) considers the decreased quality of life rather than just age at death.&nbsp; Such calculations help measure the medical health of a population.But now we face the reality that around the world, our educational systems are shutting down or&nbsp; dramatically slowing while teachers attempt to provide some distance learning. Here I propose a related measure: Years of Potential Intellectual Life Lost (YPILL). &nbsp;This would estimate the extent of damage done to a population when portions of the population are reduced or eliminated based on their educational level and potential to contribute intellectually to that society, or when educational efforts for students are curtailed by school closures, war, etc.Long before this crisis, I did back-of-the-envelope calculations based on some major educational tragedies elsewhere in world history.—In Cambodia, the Khmer Rouge specifically killed teachers, doctors and their most educated citizenry.&nbsp; Cambodia has still not recovered.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;—In the People’s Republic of China, from 1965 to 1977, nearly all schools were closed resulting in a generation of uneducated students. Their opening up and massive funding of education pulled them forward dramatically, but it left behind a lost generation.—And currently in the Middle East, large populations of Syrian refugees lack schooling for their children.All of these situations can be subjected to mathematical analysis to measure how much this loss of educated citizens slows down or retards the quality of life for future generations.&nbsp; But the above examples are “over there” and not here in the United States. Now, we join in as the whole world “stands down” to prevent an epidemic from exceeding our medical capacity. And that means standing down education.There is a Peanuts cartoon where Linus is in bed with a thermometer in his mouth, protesting that when he returns to school, everyone will know that he is “one day dumber.” Of course, no one would consider a child who misses a day of school to be seriously “dumber.” But now we are looking at millions of school days of learning lost worldwide—a huge amount of potential intellectual life lost. —And a world that is a lot more than one day dumber.&nbsp;&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.

Ed. Frontlines: Years of potential intellectual life lost

Today is Thursday, March 26, the 86th day of 2020. There are 280 days left in the year.

On March 26, 1945, during World War II, Iwo Jima was fully secured by U.S. forces following a final, desperate attack by Japanese soldiers.

In 1812, an earthquake devastated Caracas, Venezuela, causing an estimated 26,000 deaths, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

In 1827, composer Ludwig van Beethoven died in Vienna.

In 1911, American playwright Tennessee Williams ("The Glass Menagerie," "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof") was born in Columbus, Miss.

In 1962, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Baker v. Carr, gave federal courts the power to order reapportionment of states' legislative districts.

In 1964, the musical play "Funny Girl," starring Barbra Streisand as Fanny Brice, opened on Broadway.

In 1979, a peace treaty was signed by Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and witnessed by President Jimmy Carter at the White House.

In 1982, groundbreaking ceremonies took place in Washington, D.C., for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

In 1988, Jesse Jackson stunned fellow Democrats by soundly defeating Michael S. Dukakis in Michigan's Democratic presidential caucuses.

In 1992, a judge in Indianapolis sentenced former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson to six years in prison for raping a Miss Black America contestant. (Tyson ended up serving three years.)

In 1997, the bodies of 39 members of the Heaven's Gate techno-religious cult who committed suicide were found inside a rented mansion in Rancho Santa Fe, California.

In 2013, Italy's top criminal court overturned the acquittal of American Amanda Knox in the grisly murder of British roommate Meredith Kercher and ordered Knox to stand trial again. (Although convicted in absentia, Knox was exonerated by the Italian Supreme Court in 2015.)

In 2018, a toxicology report obtained by The Associated Press revealed that the late pop music superstar Prince had levels of fentanyl in his body that multiple experts described as "exceedingly high."

Ten years ago: The U.S. and Russia sealed the first major nuclear weapons treaty in nearly two decades, agreeing to slash the former Cold War rivals' warhead arsenals by nearly one-third. A South Korean warship exploded and sank near a disputed maritime border with North Korea, killing 46 sailors. (South Korea blamed North Korea, which denied involvement.) A truck collided with a van on I-65 in Kentucky, killing 10 Mennonites in the van and the truck driver. NBA player Gilbert Arenas was sentenced to 30 days in a halfway house for bringing guns into the Washington Wizards locker room.

Five years ago: Indiana Gov. Mike Pence signed a measure prohibiting state and local laws that "substantially burden" the ability of people to follow their religious beliefs; opponents charged the new law could legalize discrimination against gay people.

One year ago: The House failed to override President Donald Trump's first veto, allowing him to steer billions of extra dollars to construct border barriers. The Senate defeated a motion to take up the Green New Deal, rejecting an opportunity to debate a comprehensive climate change plan offered by Democrats. Prosecutors in Chicago abruptly dropped all charges against Jussie Smollett, the "Empire" actor who was accused of faking a racist, anti-gay attack on himself; they said they still believed that Smollett had concocted the assault. (A grand jury revived the criminal case with new charges against Smollett in February 2020.) Rockland County in New York City's northern suburbs declared a state of emergency over a measles outbreak that had infected more than 150 people; the action included a ban against unvaccinated children in public places.

Today's Birthdays: Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor is 90. Actor Alan Arkin is 86. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is 85. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is 80. Actor James Caan is 80. Author Erica Jong is 78. Journalist Bob Woodward is 77. Singer Diana Ross is 76. Actor Johnny Crawford is 74. Rock singer Steven Tyler (Aerosmith) is 72. Singer and TV personality Vicki Lawrence is 71. Actor Ernest Thomas is 71. Comedian Martin Short is 70. Country singer Ronnie McDowell is 70. Movie composer Alan Silvestri is 70. Rock musician Monte Yoho is 68. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao is 67. Radio talk show host Curtis Sliwa is 66. Country singer Dean Dillon is 65. Country singer Charly McClain is 64. TV personality Leeza Gibbons is 63. Actress Ellia English is 61. Actress Jennifer Grey is 60. College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Marcus Allen is 60. Actor Billy Warlock is 59. Actor Eric Allan Kramer is 58. Basketball and College Basketball Hall of Famer John Stockton is 58. Actor Michael Imperioli is 54. Rock musician James Iha is 52. Country singer Kenny Chesney is 52. Movie director Martin McDonagh (Film: "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri") is 50. Actress Leslie Mann is 48. Actor T.R. Knight is 47. Rapper Juvenile is 45. Actress Amy Smart is 44. Actress Bianca Kajlich is 43. Moderator Margaret Brennan (TV: "Face the Nation") is 40. Actor Sterling Sulieman is 36. Actress Keira Knightley is 35. Rapper J-Kwon is 34. Actress Carly Chaikin is 30.

Thought for Today: "Life's like a play; it's not the length but the excellence of the acting that matters." — Seneca the Younger, Roman statesman and philosopher (3 B.C.-A.D. 65).

<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, March 26, the 86th day of 2020. There are 280 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 26, 1945, during World War II, Iwo Jima was fully secured by U.S. forces following a final, desperate attack by Japanese soldiers.On this date:In 1812, an earthquake devastated Caracas, Venezuela, causing an estimated 26,000 deaths, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.In 1827, composer Ludwig van Beethoven died in Vienna.In 1911, American playwright Tennessee Williams ("The Glass Menagerie," "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof") was born in Columbus, Miss.In 1962, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Baker v. Carr, gave federal courts the power to order reapportionment of states' legislative districts.In 1964, the musical play "Funny Girl," starring Barbra Streisand as Fanny Brice, opened on Broadway.In 1979, a peace treaty was signed by Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and witnessed by President Jimmy Carter at the White House.In 1982, groundbreaking ceremonies took place in Washington, D.C., for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.In 1988, Jesse Jackson stunned fellow Democrats by soundly defeating Michael S. Dukakis in Michigan's Democratic presidential caucuses.In 1992, a judge in Indianapolis sentenced former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson to six years in prison for raping a Miss Black America contestant. (Tyson ended up serving three years.)In 1997, the bodies of 39 members of the Heaven's Gate techno-religious cult who committed suicide were found inside a rented mansion in Rancho Santa Fe, California.In 2013, Italy's top criminal court overturned the acquittal of American Amanda Knox in the grisly murder of British roommate Meredith Kercher and ordered Knox to stand trial again. (Although convicted in absentia, Knox was exonerated by the Italian Supreme Court in 2015.)In 2018, a toxicology report obtained by The Associated Press revealed that the late pop music superstar Prince had levels of fentanyl in his body that multiple experts described as "exceedingly high."Ten years ago: The U.S. and Russia sealed the first major nuclear weapons treaty in nearly two decades, agreeing to slash the former Cold War rivals' warhead arsenals by nearly one-third. A South Korean warship exploded and sank near a disputed maritime border with North Korea, killing 46 sailors. (South Korea blamed North Korea, which denied involvement.) A truck collided with a van on I-65 in Kentucky, killing 10 Mennonites in the van and the truck driver. NBA player Gilbert Arenas was sentenced to 30 days in a halfway house for bringing guns into the Washington Wizards locker room.Five years ago: Indiana Gov. Mike Pence signed a measure prohibiting state and local laws that "substantially burden" the ability of people to follow their religious beliefs; opponents charged the new law could legalize discrimination against gay people.One year ago: The House failed to override President Donald Trump's first veto, allowing him to steer billions of extra dollars to construct border barriers. The Senate defeated a motion to take up the Green New Deal, rejecting an opportunity to debate a comprehensive climate change plan offered by Democrats. Prosecutors in Chicago abruptly dropped all charges against Jussie Smollett, the "Empire" actor who was accused of faking a racist, anti-gay attack on himself; they said they still believed that Smollett had concocted the assault. (A grand jury revived the criminal case with new charges against Smollett in February 2020.) Rockland County in New York City's northern suburbs declared a state of emergency over a measles outbreak that had infected more than 150 people; the action included a ban against unvaccinated children in public places.Today's Birthdays: Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor is 90. Actor Alan Arkin is 86. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is 85. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is 80. Actor James Caan is 80. Author Erica Jong is 78. Journalist Bob Woodward is 77. Singer Diana Ross is 76. Actor Johnny Crawford is 74. Rock singer Steven Tyler (Aerosmith) is 72. Singer and TV personality Vicki Lawrence is 71. Actor Ernest Thomas is 71. Comedian Martin Short is 70. Country singer Ronnie McDowell is 70. Movie composer Alan Silvestri is 70. Rock musician Monte Yoho is 68. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao is 67. Radio talk show host Curtis Sliwa is 66. Country singer Dean Dillon is 65. Country singer Charly McClain is 64. TV personality Leeza Gibbons is 63. Actress Ellia English is 61. Actress Jennifer Grey is 60. College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Marcus Allen is 60. Actor Billy Warlock is 59. Actor Eric Allan Kramer is 58. Basketball and College Basketball Hall of Famer John Stockton is 58. Actor Michael Imperioli is 54. Rock musician James Iha is 52. Country singer Kenny Chesney is 52. Movie director Martin McDonagh (Film: "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri") is 50. Actress Leslie Mann is 48. Actor T.R. Knight is 47. Rapper Juvenile is 45. Actress Amy Smart is 44. Actress Bianca Kajlich is 43. Moderator Margaret Brennan (TV: "Face the Nation") is 40. Actor Sterling Sulieman is 36. Actress Keira Knightley is 35. Rapper J-Kwon is 34. Actress Carly Chaikin is 30.Thought for Today: "Life's like a play; it's not the length but the excellence of the acting that matters." — Seneca the Younger, Roman statesman and philosopher (3 B.C.-A.D. 65).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- March 26

If you see a van driving slowly through your neighborhood, it might be doing so for legitimate reasons.

On Tuesday, Infrastructure Management Services of Tempe, Ariz., began assessing the condition of each of Salina's streets, according to information from the City of Salina. IMS utilizes a data collection van equipped with cameras to capture imagery of the road surface and lasers to measure crack severity. 

The data is being collected to track the condition of the streets and to aid in planning annual maintenance projects. 

The data collection van will travel at around 15 to 20 mph and may slightly impact traffic. The work should require around three weeks to complete. 

Pavement condition surveys are completed in Salina about every five years. 

The $57,500 project is part of the City of Salina's $5.4 million 2020 street maintenance program.

If you see a van driving slowly through your neighborhood, it might be doing so for legitimate reasons.On Tuesday, Infrastructure Management Services of Tempe, Ariz., began assessing the condition of each of Salina's streets, according to information from the City of Salina. IMS utilizes a data collection van equipped with cameras to capture imagery of the road surface and lasers to measure crack severity. The data is being collected to track the condition of the streets and to aid in planning annual maintenance projects. The data collection van will travel at around 15 to 20 mph and may slightly impact traffic. The work should require around three weeks to complete. Pavement condition surveys are completed in Salina about every five years. The $57,500 project is part of the City of Salina's $5.4 million 2020 street maintenance program.

City streets are being assessed

By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-republicans-wonder-who-can-defend-us-senate-seat-theyve-taken-granted#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>&nbsp;

TOPEKA — A Democrat hasn’t won a U.S. Senate race in Kansas since the early days of the Great Depression.

It
 took that economic crisis to propel George McGill, riding on Franklin 
Roosevelt’s New Deal coattails, to a win. And he served but a single 
term.

This year, the country finds itself on the cusp of another 
economic calamity. The COVID-19 epidemic sent the stock market into 
convulsions, forced all range of business and campaigning into 
hibernation and put life in limbo.

If the virus continues to 
escalate across the country, and through Kansas, that might even 
jeopardize how people in the state vote and how candidates might 
influence them.

What’s more, the man Republicans thought could 
most easily hold the U.S. Senate seat that incumbent Pat Roberts is 
walking away from has, finally, said he’s not interested.

That 
has the GOP bracing for a bruising primary anchored within its 
conservative wing — and debating who would run the greatest risk of 
losing a seat the party’s long been able to take for granted.

Democrats, in turn, see at least a slugger’s chance of sending one of their own.

“It’s a long shot,” said Washburn University political scientist Bob Beatty.

Yet
 if an anti-Trump wave builds in the state’s suburban population 
centers, he said, “Democrats want to have a candidate that can take 
advantage of it.”

In 2016, Trump won Kansas by 21 percentage points over Democrat Hillary Clinton. But <a href="https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-states-where-trump-is-more-and-less-popular-than-he-should-be/">several polls taken in the last two years</a> and the election of Democrats to Congress and the governor’s office in 2018 suggest that a political shift is possible.

The
 biggest factor could be who Republicans choose to take on likely 
Democratic nominee Barbara Bollier, a state senator from vote-rich 
Johnson County. She defected from the Republican Party just last year.

Republican
 leaders had pinned their hopes on U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. 
He represented Wichita in the U.S. House before joining Trump’s cabinet.
 But after equivocating for months, he decided not to run.

That, 
according to early polls, left former Kansas Secretary of State Kris 
Kobach as the frontrunner. That’s got some Republicans nervous.

Their anxiety stems from Kobach’s loss to Democrat Laura Kelly in the 2018 governor’s race.

Joanna
 Rodriguez, a spokesperson for the National Republican Senatorial 
Committee, told Politico in July that a Kobach nomination would put the 
party’s “Senate majority at risk.”

In the same article, Roberts said Kobach’s 2018 loss would make winning the Senate race “more difficult.”

U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall from western Kansas seizes on those concerns to advance his bid for the nomination.

Marshall says his internal polling suggests he’s got the best chance of winning the November general election.

“It
 shows us winning by 10 or 20 points while other people in this 
(primary) race would be in jeopardy of losing,” Marshall said.

Referring
 to Kobach’s 2018 loss, Marshall asks, “how does a Republican lose a 
governor’s race in a state that President Trump carried by double 
digits?”

Republicans at the very top of the party share his 
concerns, Marshall said. He said the issue of Kobach’s candidacy had 
come up in meetings with Senate Majority Mitch McConnell and President 
Trump.

“I always try to keep my consversations in the White House
 very private,” Marshall said in a recent interview. “But I’ll tell you 
this, the president is very concerned about keeping the Senate 
majority.”

Marshall, a retired doctor, represents the 1st Congressional District
 covering roughly two-thirds of the state. He appears to be Kobach’s 
chief rival for the nomination. Other candidates include Kansas Senate 
President Susan Wagle and former Kansas City Chiefs player Dave 
Lindstrom.

Kobach insists his two successful campaigns for secretary of state show that he can win a statewide general election.

“I will certainly win again,” Kobach said.

Kobach’s
 connection to Trump benefitted him in previous races. It was the 
president’s last-minute Twitter endorsement that many believe helped him
 narrowly defeat sitting Gov. Jeff Colyer in the 2018 gubernatorial 
primary.

Kobach would like history to repeat, but he doesn’t sound confident when asked if he expects to have the president’s backing.

“Obviously
 it’s always a great advantage to have the president’s endorsement, but 
I’m not going to try to predict whether he’ll get involved,” Kobach 
said.

The concerns raised about his candidacy, he said, come from “establishment” Republicans who fear he’ll be too independent.

“Some
 of the moderate establishment is uncomfortable with a strong 
conservative in the Senate seat,” he said. “They would rather have 
somebody who can be forced to compromise, somebody who doesn’t hold firm
 on issues.”

Kobach is a polarizing figure. The same hardline 
positions on immigration and ballot security that endear him to his 
conservative base alienate moderates and independents.

Marshall 
has the opposite problem. Despite a voting record that he said aligns 
with President Trump “98% of the time,” some conservatives remain 
skeptical of him.

That doubt stems from Marshall’s 2016 primary win over Tim Huelskamp, an incumbent Tea Party favorite.

The
 national conservative-leaning Club for Growth spent about $400,000 to 
help Huelskamp. Some of that money paid for a TV ad calling Marshall “a 
liberal backed by political insiders.”

The group is now working 
to deny Marshall the U.S. Senate nomination. The Club for Growth 
recently spent more than $30,000 to place full-page ads in several 
newspapers that featured anonymous complaints from what it claimed were 
some of Marshall’s former patients.

Eric Phals, Marshall’s campaign manager, called the ad “garbage” from a “dark money group out of the D.C. swamp.”

Some
 big-name Kansas Republicans are endorsing Marshall in an attempt to 
head off a Kobach nomination. They include former Senator and 1996 
presidential nominee Bob Dole and Colyer, the former governor defeated 
by Kobach in the 2018 primary.

“He (Marshall) is a candidate that
 I’m certain Republicans and all Kansans can get behind for the general 
election,” Colyer said in endorsing Marshall at a recent news conference
 in Topeka.

Kansas Democrats believe a Kobach win in the August primary would boost their chances in November.

That’s
 not entirely wishful thinking, said Michael Smith, an Emporia State 
University political scientist. He said if Kobach is the Republican 
nominee, the Senate race could play out much like the 2018 contest for 
governor.

“A Democratic woman stressing moderate themes, health 
care and good government defeating Kobach in the general election, it 
happened in 2018 and it could happen again,” Smith wrote in a recent 
column for Kansas outlets.

Bollier, the likely nominee and a retired doctor, who switched 
parties last year. Touting her moderate credentials and “ability to 
bridge partisan differences,” she raised more than $1 million during her
 first three months on the campaign trail.

The people donating to
 her campaign, Bollier said, “want to see a change in the kind of 
leadership they have representing them in Washington.”

“They’re tired,” she said, “of bickering.”

Jim
 McLean is the senior correspondent for 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. You can reach him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/jmcleanks" target="_blank">@jmcleanks</a>&nbsp;or email jim@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145113835.png" alt=" Scott Canon / Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption> Scott Canon / Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-republicans-wonder-who-can-defend-us-senate-seat-theyve-taken-granted#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>&nbsp;TOPEKA — A Democrat hasn’t won a U.S. Senate race in Kansas since the early days of the Great Depression.It
 took that economic crisis to propel George McGill, riding on Franklin 
Roosevelt’s New Deal coattails, to a win. And he served but a single 
term.This year, the country finds itself on the cusp of another 
economic calamity. The COVID-19 epidemic sent the stock market into 
convulsions, forced all range of business and campaigning into 
hibernation and put life in limbo.If the virus continues to 
escalate across the country, and through Kansas, that might even 
jeopardize how people in the state vote and how candidates might 
influence them.What’s more, the man Republicans thought could 
most easily hold the U.S. Senate seat that incumbent Pat Roberts is 
walking away from has, finally, said he’s not interested.That 
has the GOP bracing for a bruising primary anchored within its 
conservative wing — and debating who would run the greatest risk of 
losing a seat the party’s long been able to take for granted.Democrats, in turn, see at least a slugger’s chance of sending one of their own.“It’s a long shot,” said Washburn University political scientist Bob Beatty.Yet
 if an anti-Trump wave builds in the state’s suburban population 
centers, he said, “Democrats want to have a candidate that can take 
advantage of it.”In 2016, Trump won Kansas by 21 percentage points over Democrat Hillary Clinton. But <a href="https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-states-where-trump-is-more-and-less-popular-than-he-should-be/">several polls taken in the last two years</a> and the election of Democrats to Congress and the governor’s office in 2018 suggest that a political shift is possible.The
 biggest factor could be who Republicans choose to take on likely 
Democratic nominee Barbara Bollier, a state senator from vote-rich 
Johnson County. She defected from the Republican Party just last year.Republican
 leaders had pinned their hopes on U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. 
He represented Wichita in the U.S. House before joining Trump’s cabinet.
 But after equivocating for months, he decided not to run.That, 
according to early polls, left former Kansas Secretary of State Kris 
Kobach as the frontrunner. That’s got some Republicans nervous.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145172144.png" alt=" Kris Kobach won the Republican primary for governor in 2018, but he lost the general election. Credit Scott Canon" />
 <figcaption> Kris Kobach won the Republican primary for governor in 2018, but he lost the general election. Credit Scott Canon</figcaption>
 </figure>Their anxiety stems from Kobach’s loss to Democrat Laura Kelly in the 2018 governor’s race.Joanna
 Rodriguez, a spokesperson for the National Republican Senatorial 
Committee, told Politico in July that a Kobach nomination would put the 
party’s “Senate majority at risk.”In the same article, Roberts said Kobach’s 2018 loss would make winning the Senate race “more difficult.”U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall from western Kansas seizes on those concerns to advance his bid for the nomination.Marshall says his internal polling suggests he’s got the best chance of winning the November general election.“It
 shows us winning by 10 or 20 points while other people in this 
(primary) race would be in jeopardy of losing,” Marshall said.Referring
 to Kobach’s 2018 loss, Marshall asks, “how does a Republican lose a 
governor’s race in a state that President Trump carried by double 
digits?”Republicans at the very top of the party share his 
concerns, Marshall said. He said the issue of Kobach’s candidacy had 
come up in meetings with Senate Majority Mitch McConnell and President 
Trump.“I always try to keep my consversations in the White House
 very private,” Marshall said in a recent interview. “But I’ll tell you 
this, the president is very concerned about keeping the Senate 
majority.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145212141.png" alt=" Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, right, endorsed U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate. Credit Jim McLean" />
 <figcaption> Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, right, endorsed U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate. Credit Jim McLean</figcaption>
 </figure>Marshall, a retired doctor, represents the 1st Congressional District
 covering roughly two-thirds of the state. He appears to be Kobach’s 
chief rival for the nomination. Other candidates include Kansas Senate 
President Susan Wagle and former Kansas City Chiefs player Dave 
Lindstrom.Kobach insists his two successful campaigns for secretary of state show that he can win a statewide general election.“I will certainly win again,” Kobach said.Kobach’s
 connection to Trump benefitted him in previous races. It was the 
president’s last-minute Twitter endorsement that many believe helped him
 narrowly defeat sitting Gov. Jeff Colyer in the 2018 gubernatorial 
primary.Kobach would like history to repeat, but he doesn’t sound confident when asked if he expects to have the president’s backing.“Obviously
 it’s always a great advantage to have the president’s endorsement, but 
I’m not going to try to predict whether he’ll get involved,” Kobach 
said.The concerns raised about his candidacy, he said, come from “establishment” Republicans who fear he’ll be too independent.“Some
 of the moderate establishment is uncomfortable with a strong 
conservative in the Senate seat,” he said. “They would rather have 
somebody who can be forced to compromise, somebody who doesn’t hold firm
 on issues.”Kobach is a polarizing figure. The same hardline 
positions on immigration and ballot security that endear him to his 
conservative base alienate moderates and independents.Marshall 
has the opposite problem. Despite a voting record that he said aligns 
with President Trump “98% of the time,” some conservatives remain 
skeptical of him.That doubt stems from Marshall’s 2016 primary win over Tim Huelskamp, an incumbent Tea Party favorite.The
 national conservative-leaning Club for Growth spent about $400,000 to 
help Huelskamp. Some of that money paid for a TV ad calling Marshall “a 
liberal backed by political insiders.”The group is now working 
to deny Marshall the U.S. Senate nomination. The Club for Growth 
recently spent more than $30,000 to place full-page ads in several 
newspapers that featured anonymous complaints from what it claimed were 
some of Marshall’s former patients.Eric Phals, Marshall’s campaign manager, called the ad “garbage” from a “dark money group out of the D.C. swamp.”Some
 big-name Kansas Republicans are endorsing Marshall in an attempt to 
head off a Kobach nomination. They include former Senator and 1996 
presidential nominee Bob Dole and Colyer, the former governor defeated 
by Kobach in the 2018 primary.“He (Marshall) is a candidate that
 I’m certain Republicans and all Kansans can get behind for the general 
election,” Colyer said in endorsing Marshall at a recent news conference
 in Topeka.Kansas Democrats believe a Kobach win in the August primary would boost their chances in November.That’s
 not entirely wishful thinking, said Michael Smith, an Emporia State 
University political scientist. He said if Kobach is the Republican 
nominee, the Senate race could play out much like the 2018 contest for 
governor.“A Democratic woman stressing moderate themes, health 
care and good government defeating Kobach in the general election, it 
happened in 2018 and it could happen again,” Smith wrote in a recent 
column for Kansas outlets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145252311.png" alt=" Barbara Bollier, a former Republican, is running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Credit Jim McLean" />
 <figcaption> Barbara Bollier, a former Republican, is running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Credit Jim McLean</figcaption>
 </figure>Bollier, the likely nominee and a retired doctor, who switched 
parties last year. Touting her moderate credentials and “ability to 
bridge partisan differences,” she raised more than $1 million during her
 first three months on the campaign trail.The people donating to
 her campaign, Bollier said, “want to see a change in the kind of 
leadership they have representing them in Washington.”“They’re tired,” she said, “of bickering.”Jim
 McLean is the senior correspondent for 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. You can reach him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/jmcleanks" target="_blank">@jmcleanks</a>&nbsp;or email jim@kcur.org.

 Kan. GOP wonders who can defend Senate seat it's taken for granted 

CLOUD COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday in Cloud County.

The Kansas Highway patrol reported a 2010 Chevy Traverse driven by&nbsp; Leo G. Becker, 42,&nbsp; Salina,&nbsp;was southbound in the driving lane on U.S. 81 six miles south of Concordia.

The vehicle struck a pedestrian in the roadway identified as Rex O. Young, 59, Concordia. The SUV came to a stop on the west shoulder.

Young was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. Becker was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574202193916.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOUD COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday in Cloud County.The Kansas Highway patrol reported a 2010 Chevy Traverse driven by&nbsp; Leo G. Becker, 42,&nbsp; Salina,&nbsp;was southbound in the driving lane on U.S. 81 six miles south of Concordia.The vehicle struck a pedestrian in the roadway identified as Rex O. Young, 59, Concordia. The SUV came to a stop on the west shoulder.Young was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. Becker was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man from Concordia struck and killed by SUV on U.S. 81 

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Recent obituaries

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

During a rescheduled meeting Wednesday the Salina City Commission acted on a request from Salina Arts &amp; Humanities to cancel the 2020 Smoky Hill River Festival.

The commission meeting was rescheduled from its regular time on Monday because of technical issues. The commission is meeting via teleconference until further notice in an effort to comply with social distancing guidelines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During Wednesday's meeting, Brad Anderson, SAH executive director, recommended that commissioners cancel the festival scheduled for June 11-14.

"As difficult as this is to say, it is more important at this time to set aside what our hearts desire and honor the beautiful spirit of the Smoky Hill River Festival by making this decision for the benefit of our entire community," Anderson said.

According to Anderson, "this is a time when our staff needs to explore new and creative ways for the arts to strengthen our spirits and give us hope as we work together to find solutions for the challenges that lie ahead."

Anderson noted that the festival brings together artists, performers, vendors, and guests from more than 30 states.

"As travel restrictions continue to be imposed, there's a significant likelihood that many of these people will not be able to attend the festival in June," Anderson told commissioners. "Projections by health and epidemiology professionals are suggesting the health impact will be felt over the next two to 20 months, making the feasibility of large gatherings such as the festival highly unlikely in less than three months."

Anderson said SAH staff had "explored options, discussed contingency plans, consulted with health officials, as well as city legal services and city management, before making this recommendation."

Anderson explained that it wasn't possible to delay the festival to  a later date "due to the complexity of coordinating 36 food vendors, 140 visual artists, more than 100 musicians and performers, let alone the 2,000 volunteers that we rely on to make the commitment to the festival and to make it the special celebration it is."

Each festival takes SAH staff approximately 14 months to plan, Anderson told the commissioners.

"We would prefer to be coordinating a very special 45th anniversary of the festival for 2021, as we learn more in the months ahead rather than trying to force something at a later date," he said.

Anderson told the commissioners that if they accepted SAH's recommendation to cancel the 2020 festival, the city would not incur approximately $200,000 worth of festival-related expenses, thus freeing up additional funding for the city in what could be fiscally tight times.

Anderson noted that the Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation had reimbursed the city for a number of deposits for musicians and performers.

"They probably stand to suffer the greatest potential losses at this point," Anderson said of the foundation.

"Staff is doing all they can to preserve resources and dollars that have already been expended by asking performers and artists to reschedule their activity until June of 2021," he said.

Anderson said that SAH staff had reached 100 percent of the city-contracted and outside-contracted performers. All but one of those contracted expressed a willingness to reschedule as late as June 2021.

Additionally, Anderson said that because of not knowing how COVID-19 will strike Salina, there also is the factor of not knowing how many staff and volunteers would be available to prepare the facilities and make the festival happen.

Commissioner Karl Ryan asked Anderson whether, if the situation would allow, some sort of event might still be held.

"If things aren't as bad as they seem, can we have some kind of festival in the park or some event, Festival Jam for a couple of days? Is there a fall back to allow the community to, if there's the opportunity to do so to have some kind of a gathering?" Ryan asked Anderson.

"That is part of our mission and operation, both through the festival and through Salina Arts &amp; Humanities," Anderson replied. "And yes, the short answer is if time and resources would allow having some kind of an event at a later time when we're allowed to gather."

Anderson said SAH was looking at ways it could use some of its resources to help support the education efforts that are taking place in people's homes because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

After a motion by Commissioner Trent Davis and a second from Commissioner Melissa Hodges, the Salina City Commission voted unanimously to cancel the 2020 Smoky Hill River Festival.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585176800132.jpeg" alt="2019 Smoky Hill River Festival photo courtesy&nbsp;Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>2019 Smoky Hill River Festival photo courtesy&nbsp;Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostDuring a rescheduled meeting Wednesday the Salina City Commission acted on a request from Salina Arts &amp; Humanities to cancel the 2020 Smoky Hill River Festival.The commission meeting was rescheduled from its regular time on Monday because of technical issues. The commission is meeting via teleconference until further notice in an effort to comply with social distancing guidelines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.During Wednesday's meeting, Brad Anderson, SAH executive director, recommended that commissioners cancel the festival scheduled for June 11-14."As difficult as this is to say, it is more important at this time to set aside what our hearts desire and honor the beautiful spirit of the Smoky Hill River Festival by making this decision for the benefit of our entire community," Anderson said.According to Anderson, "this is a time when our staff needs to explore new and creative ways for the arts to strengthen our spirits and give us hope as we work together to find solutions for the challenges that lie ahead."Anderson noted that the festival brings together artists, performers, vendors, and guests from more than 30 states."As travel restrictions continue to be imposed, there's a significant likelihood that many of these people will not be able to attend the festival in June," Anderson told commissioners. "Projections by health and epidemiology professionals are suggesting the health impact will be felt over the next two to 20 months, making the feasibility of large gatherings such as the festival highly unlikely in less than three months."Anderson said SAH staff had "explored options, discussed contingency plans, consulted with health officials, as well as city legal services and city management, before making this recommendation."Anderson explained that it wasn't possible to delay the festival to a later date "due to the complexity of coordinating 36 food vendors, 140 visual artists, more than 100 musicians and performers, let alone the 2,000 volunteers that we rely on to make the commitment to the festival and to make it the special celebration it is."Each festival takes SAH staff approximately 14 months to plan, Anderson told the commissioners."We would prefer to be coordinating a very special 45th anniversary of the festival for 2021, as we learn more in the months ahead rather than trying to force something at a later date," he said.Anderson told the commissioners that if they accepted SAH's recommendation to cancel the 2020 festival, the city would not incur approximately $200,000 worth of festival-related expenses, thus freeing up additional funding for the city in what could be fiscally tight times.Anderson noted that the Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation had reimbursed the city for a number of deposits for musicians and performers."They probably stand to suffer the greatest potential losses at this point," Anderson said of the foundation."Staff is doing all they can to preserve resources and dollars that have already been expended by asking performers and artists to reschedule their activity until June of 2021," he said.Anderson said that SAH staff had reached 100 percent of the city-contracted and outside-contracted performers. All but one of those contracted expressed a willingness to reschedule as late as June 2021.Additionally, Anderson said that because of not knowing how COVID-19 will strike Salina, there also is the factor of not knowing how many staff and volunteers would be available to prepare the facilities and make the festival happen.Commissioner Karl Ryan asked Anderson whether, if the situation would allow, some sort of event might still be held."If things aren't as bad as they seem, can we have some kind of festival in the park or some event, Festival Jam for a couple of days? Is there a fall back to allow the community to, if there's the opportunity to do so to have some kind of a gathering?" Ryan asked Anderson."That is part of our mission and operation, both through the festival and through Salina Arts &amp; Humanities," Anderson replied. "And yes, the short answer is if time and resources would allow having some kind of an event at a later time when we're allowed to gather."Anderson said SAH was looking at ways it could use some of its resources to help support the education efforts that are taking place in people's homes because of the COVID-19 pandemic.After a motion by Commissioner Trent Davis and a second from Commissioner Melissa Hodges, the Salina City Commission voted unanimously to cancel the 2020 Smoky Hill River Festival.

UPDATE: City cancels 2020 Smoky Hill River Festival

Here is today's COVID-19 update from Saline County:

As of 5 pm, March 25th, 2020, Saline County has not had a confirmed positive case of COVID19. Just because no positive cases have been reported through our official channels, doesn’t mean that there isn’t a potential for a positive case to exist within our community. It is possible that a person hasn’t met the requirements for the testing set by KDHE and have been advised by their medical provider to self-quarantine. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.

Dr. Norman from KDHE conducted a press conference today. There are 126 positive COVID-19 cases in Kansas, which is an increase of 28 from yesterday. Dr. Norman addressed that he expects that the positive cases have a great potential to double in the next 3-4 days. This information is yet another reason for the citizens of Salina/Saline County to take this situation seriously. Just because it is reported that no positive cases are in Saline County, doesn’t mean that there aren’t people that are doing the right thing and self-isolating at home, monitoring their symptoms and communicating with their medical provider.

<a href="https://kdhe.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/05f4169dc6394aa98895072b94734134">https://kdhe.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/05f4169dc6394aa98895072b94734134</a>

We are aware of the other Counties that have instituted stay-at-home orders. Our County Health Officer’s position for not implementing one is simple; a stay-at-home order has an exhaustive list of exemptions of those trades that are considered essential. A stay-at-home order is not a game of how you can figure out how to get around the exemptions so that you can leave your home and do what you want. That is the wrong approach. We are asking you to stay-at-home voluntarily by heading the public health messages that are all over the State of Kansas and the U.S. and stay at home. If you must go out for essential things such as reporting to work or grocery needs, then do so; but observe the social distancing guidelines that are a proven epidemiological practice.

Testing in Saline County is being done, but does adhere to the testing guidelines set forth by KDHE and typically reserved for the sickest people. Commercial labs can do testing, and have been for a few days now, providing for more testing being completed each day across the State.

Testing must be authorized by a medical provider and approved through either KDHE’s lab or a commercial lab. Several common questions and their answers directly related to symptoms, testing for the virus and requirements for testing have been posted on our website at <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.

KDHE released interim guidance for Cosmetology, Barbering, Tanning, Tattoo shop establishments today:

Here is today's COVID-19 update from Saline County:As of 5 pm, March 25th, 2020, Saline County has not had a confirmed positive case of COVID19. Just because no positive cases have been reported through our official channels, doesn’t mean that there isn’t a potential for a positive case to exist within our community. It is possible that a person hasn’t met the requirements for the testing set by KDHE and have been advised by their medical provider to self-quarantine. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.Dr. Norman from KDHE conducted a press conference today. There are 126 positive COVID-19 cases in Kansas, which is an increase of 28 from yesterday. Dr. Norman addressed that he expects that the positive cases have a great potential to double in the next 3-4 days. This information is yet another reason for the citizens of Salina/Saline County to take this situation seriously. Just because it is reported that no positive cases are in Saline County, doesn’t mean that there aren’t people that are doing the right thing and self-isolating at home, monitoring their symptoms and communicating with their medical provider.•KDHE Kansas COVID-19 Map:<a href="https://kdhe.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/05f4169dc6394aa98895072b94734134">https://kdhe.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/05f4169dc6394aa98895072b94734134</a>We are aware of the other Counties that have instituted stay-at-home orders. Our County Health Officer’s position for not implementing one is simple; a stay-at-home order has an exhaustive list of exemptions of those trades that are considered essential. A stay-at-home order is not a game of how you can figure out how to get around the exemptions so that you can leave your home and do what you want. That is the wrong approach. We are asking you to stay-at-home voluntarily by heading the public health messages that are all over the State of Kansas and the U.S. and stay at home. If you must go out for essential things such as reporting to work or grocery needs, then do so; but observe the social distancing guidelines that are a proven epidemiological practice. Testing in Saline County is being done, but does adhere to the testing guidelines set forth by KDHE and typically reserved for the sickest people. Commercial labs can do testing, and have been for a few days now, providing for more testing being completed each day across the State.Testing must be authorized by a medical provider and approved through either KDHE’s lab or a commercial lab. Several common questions and their answers directly related to symptoms, testing for the virus and requirements for testing have been posted on our website at <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.KDHE released interim guidance for Cosmetology, Barbering, Tanning, Tattoo shop establishments today:•Establishments are asked to be extra vigilant in cleaning and disinfection.•Practicing alternate scheduling practices.•Practicing of good hygiene.•Screening questions that should be asked of clients before arriving to an establishment.•Working with your local municipality and local county health department on additional guidance.We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the spread of diseases by:• Staying at home if you are sick.•Washing your hands.•Covering your sneezes and coughs.•If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.