Good morning, Pullman.

School buses are back as students gear up for the new school year; drivers are reminded to stop when buses flash red lights or deploy their stop signs on two-lane roads, as illegal passing incurs a mandatory fine of ($500) per state law.

Washington State University has named interim dean Julie Akers as the permanent head of the College of Pharmacy in Pullman today.

Akers, who served for a year and is a WSU alum, takes over from Mark Leid after his five-year tenure.

Sen. Mark Schoesler finished a fruitful wheat harvest near Ritzville a few days ago — after long, hot days — and said agriculture is crucial for our state economy.

He noted his Senate work helps protect local farming interests.