TOPEKA—Kansas Court of Appeals judges will hear appeals by videoconference Monday. The oral arguments will be&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/zyUwChW4XJbxPPc8eweAlBhT-07ZMloVqj0sgPAZV7g" target="_blank">livestreamed on YouTube</a>.

Chief Judge Karen Arnold-Burger is the presiding judge and is joined by judges David Bruns and Kim Schroeder for the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/zyUwChW4XJbxPPc8eweAlMMxhpVTWko-ZTavoW2WgKQ" target="_blank">July 13 docket</a>.

Ordinarily, Court of Appeals panels hear oral arguments in person. Through&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/zyUwChW4XJbxPPc8eweAlFXJbthIIbqWjYn_ecBDAnU" target="_blank">Administrative Order 2020-PR-076</a>, the Kansas Supreme Court has ordered all hearings be conducted remotely if possible.

On the Court of Appeals docket for 9 a.m. Monday is the following case from Ottawa County, according to summary information provided by the court.

Appeal No. 121,879:&nbsp;Ringneck Farms LLC v. Dr. Bradley Steuwe, Fried Enterprises LP, C&amp;W Ranch Ltd., Joel Wimer, and R.J. Fencing LLC

Ottawa County: Ringneck Farms alleged the defendants cut down a hedge row of over 100 trees without permission on Ringneck's property. Ringneck hired expert witnesses who were prepared to testify the replacement cost of the trees was over $1 million. Before the district court, the defendants argued that the only proper measure of damages was the value of the property before the trees were cut down versus after the trees were cut down. The district court agreed and barred Ringneck from presenting its expert witnesses' testimony. Subsequently, the district court granted summary judgment for the defendants because Ringneck was unable to prove damages. On appeal, Ringneck argues the district court erred when it barred the expert testimony because tree replacement cost can be a viable measure of damages in certain circumstances.

TOPEKA—Kansas Court of Appeals judges will hear appeals by videoconference Monday. The oral arguments will be&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/zyUwChW4XJbxPPc8eweAlBhT-07ZMloVqj0sgPAZV7g" target="_blank">livestreamed on YouTube</a>.Chief Judge Karen Arnold-Burger is the presiding judge and is joined by judges David Bruns and Kim Schroeder for the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/zyUwChW4XJbxPPc8eweAlMMxhpVTWko-ZTavoW2WgKQ" target="_blank">July 13 docket</a>.Ordinarily, Court of Appeals panels hear oral arguments in person. Through&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/zyUwChW4XJbxPPc8eweAlFXJbthIIbqWjYn_ecBDAnU" target="_blank">Administrative Order 2020-PR-076</a>, the Kansas Supreme Court has ordered all hearings be conducted remotely if possible.On the Court of Appeals docket for 9 a.m. Monday is the following case from Ottawa County, according to summary information provided by the court.Appeal No. 121,879:&nbsp;Ringneck Farms LLC v. Dr. Bradley Steuwe, Fried Enterprises LP, C&amp;W Ranch Ltd., Joel Wimer, and R.J. Fencing LLCOttawa County: Ringneck Farms alleged the defendants cut down a hedge row of over 100 trees without permission on Ringneck's property. Ringneck hired expert witnesses who were prepared to testify the replacement cost of the trees was over $1 million. Before the district court, the defendants argued that the only proper measure of damages was the value of the property before the trees were cut down versus after the trees were cut down. The district court agreed and barred Ringneck from presenting its expert witnesses' testimony. Subsequently, the district court granted summary judgment for the defendants because Ringneck was unable to prove damages. On appeal, Ringneck argues the district court erred when it barred the expert testimony because tree replacement cost can be a viable measure of damages in certain circumstances.

Kansas Court of Appeals to hear Ottawa County case on Monday

The City of Salina has temporarily reduced the schedule of its workforce in an effort to prepare for expected budget shortfalls due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Summer staffing for the Parks and Recreation Department was cut by 80 percent, which has resulted in noticeable changes within city parks, facilities and programs.

In an effort to assist with beautification efforts, numerous citizens have inquired about volunteer opportunities. The scope of opportunities includes picking up trash, weeding, maintaining flower beds and pots, and emptying and removing trash cans.

Additionally, mowing and trimming of parks will be considered and reviewed for volunteers who use their own equipment.

Individuals who are interested in volunteer opportunities should complete the volunteer form and waiver at <a href="http://www.salinaparks.com">www.salinaparks.com</a>. Alternatively, paper forms are available in the Salina Parks and Recreation Department office, room 100 in the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street.

Individuals who volunteer are strongly encouraged to social distance from park users and volunteers, stay home if sick, wash hands frequently, and wear a mask.

Ordinance No. 20-11034 mandates that face coverings are worn when individuals are in any public space where social distancing of six feet at all times is not possible.

For questions or concerns regarding this matter, contact the Salina Parks &amp; Recreation Department at (785) 309-5765.

The City of Salina has temporarily reduced the schedule of its workforce in an effort to prepare for expected budget shortfalls due to the COVID-19 outbreak.Summer staffing for the Parks and Recreation Department was cut by 80 percent, which has resulted in noticeable changes within city parks, facilities and programs.In an effort to assist with beautification efforts, numerous citizens have inquired about volunteer opportunities. The scope of opportunities includes picking up trash, weeding, maintaining flower beds and pots, and emptying and removing trash cans.Additionally, mowing and trimming of parks will be considered and reviewed for volunteers who use their own equipment.Individuals who are interested in volunteer opportunities should complete the volunteer form and waiver at <a href="http://www.salinaparks.com">www.salinaparks.com</a>. Alternatively, paper forms are available in the Salina Parks and Recreation Department office, room 100 in the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street.Individuals who volunteer are strongly encouraged to social distance from park users and volunteers, stay home if sick, wash hands frequently, and wear a mask.Ordinance No. 20-11034 mandates that face coverings are worn when individuals are in any public space where social distancing of six feet at all times is not possible.For questions or concerns regarding this matter, contact the Salina Parks &amp; Recreation Department at (785) 309-5765.

City offers information for persons interested in volunteering at parks

The Saline County Sheriff's Office is investigating a hit-and-run accident involving two Ford Mustangs in the far western part of the county.

Kyle Johnson, 27, of Ellsworth, told deputies that he was eastbound on Kansas Highway 140 (K-140), about a mile east of the Saline-Ellsworth county line, when he thought a silver Ford Mustang with dark blue stripes and personalized tag that also was traveling eastbound was going to pass him, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. Instead, the vehicle struck the left rear part of Johnson's green 1995 Mustang, causing it to spin across the road and roll once, coming to rest on its wheels, Soldan said.

The silver Mustang also spun off the road, but soon recovered and sped off eastbound on K-140, he added.

Although Johnson noticed the silver Mustang had a personalized license tag, he was not able to read it, Soldan explained.

Johnson complained of minor injuries, but refused treatment, Soldan said. His car was towed, Soldan noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594310225119.jpeg" alt="Johnson's Mustang. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Johnson's Mustang. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>The Saline County Sheriff's Office is investigating a hit-and-run accident involving two Ford Mustangs in the far western part of the county.Kyle Johnson, 27, of Ellsworth, told deputies that he was eastbound on Kansas Highway 140 (K-140), about a mile east of the Saline-Ellsworth county line, when he thought a silver Ford Mustang with dark blue stripes and personalized tag that also was traveling eastbound was going to pass him, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. Instead, the vehicle struck the left rear part of Johnson's green 1995 Mustang, causing it to spin across the road and roll once, coming to rest on its wheels, Soldan said.The silver Mustang also spun off the road, but soon recovered and sped off eastbound on K-140, he added.Although Johnson noticed the silver Mustang had a personalized license tag, he was not able to read it, Soldan explained.Johnson complained of minor injuries, but refused treatment, Soldan said. His car was towed, Soldan noted.

Two Mustangs involved in hit-and-run accident Wednesday

Fire destroyed a farm implement and part of a field south of Salina late Wednesday afternoon.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies and firefighters were sent to the 2800 West Salemsborg Road at 5:03 p.m. Wednesday for the report of a field on fire.

Terry Lofdahl, of rural Smolan, had been baling hay when he noticed fire coming from the baler, Soldan said. Lofdahl was able to disconnect the tractor from the baler and escape the fire, Soldan added.

The 1997 Case 8465 Round Baler, valued at $4,000, was destroyed, Soldan said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594308690617.jpeg" alt="The baler was destroyed. Photo courtesy the Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The baler was destroyed. Photo courtesy the Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Fire destroyed a farm implement and part of a field south of Salina late Wednesday afternoon.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies and firefighters were sent to the 2800 West Salemsborg Road at 5:03 p.m. Wednesday for the report of a field on fire.Terry Lofdahl, of rural Smolan, had been baling hay when he noticed fire coming from the baler, Soldan said. Lofdahl was able to disconnect the tractor from the baler and escape the fire, Soldan added.The 1997 Case 8465 Round Baler, valued at $4,000, was destroyed, Soldan said.

Fire destroys baler, part of field southwest of Salina Wednesday

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Photos courtesy of Saline County Jail, if provided.

Charges:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor

Charges:&nbsp;Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Photos courtesy of Saline County Jail, if provided.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594301487089.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Name:&nbsp;Reynoso,Zyon KainCharges:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594301574660.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Name:&nbsp;Townsend,Davon LeshaneCharges:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor	Viol protection order; Abuse order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594301670134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Name:&nbsp;Cromwell,Teshawn DontayCharges:&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594301757004.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Name:&nbsp;Dixson,Chloe DorianCharges:&nbsp;Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

Saline County Jail Booking Activity – Thursday

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

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

Recent obituaries

Nominations are being sought for inductees into the 2020 class of the Salina Business Hall of Fame. 

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce established the Salina Business Hall of Fame in 2005 to honor prominent business leaders both past and present who have made extraordinary contributions to Salina, earned the respect of the Salina community, and exemplified the Free Enterprise System.

Nominations can be made by both chamber members and the general public. Nominees will be considered on the basis of several criteria,&nbsp; which include business excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, courageous thinking and action, inspiring leadership, community impact, positive role model, enduring accomplishments and local influence. Individuals nominated in previous years will be considered again this year. Nomination forms are available at the chamber office, 120 West Ash Street, or can be downloaded by clicking on the Hall of Fame quick link on the chamber’s <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org">website</a>. The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. Aug. 7.

A special task force will determine the inductees. The inductees will be honored at a special luncheon this fall. A portrait of each inductee will be displayed in the physical Business Hall of Fame, located at the chamber office.

Inductees in 2005 were H.D. Lee, William Graves, J.J Vanier, Al Schwan, and Charlie Walker. Inductees in 2006 were Alexander Campbell, M.J. Kennedy, Milton Morrison, Charles W. Shaver, and Roy Applequist. Inductees in 2007 were Oscar Seitz, Ralph Reitz, William Exline, Murray Wilson, and Lee Young. Inductees in 2008 were Dean Evans and Paul Junk. Inductees in 2009 were W.W. Watson, Whitley Austin, Verla Nesbitt Joscelyn, and Jack Vanier. Inductees is 2010 were Benjamin Aaron Litowich, Thomas Watson Roach and Mike Berkley. Inductees in 2011 were James R. Allen, William R. Geis, and Ben A. Sellers. Inductees in 2012 were William Phillips, Dick Brown, and George Frisbie. Inductees in 2013 were Ward Marshall and Karl Stutterheim. Inductees in 2014 were Charles R. Underwood and Charles E. Stevens, Jr. Inductees in 2015 were Frank Hageman, Baalis Kyger Smoot and Tom Pestinger. Inductees in 2016 were Herman H. Sudendorf, Rober J. Laujbengayer, and Sidney A. Reitz. Inductees in 2017 were Arthur M. Claflin, Dan Bolen, and Time Rogers. Inductees in 2018 were Milton Stiefel and Melvin and Marge Bergkamp. Inductees in 2019 were Earl Bane, Marshall Stanton, and Eugene and Margaret Logan.

Nominations are being sought for inductees into the 2020 class of the Salina Business Hall of Fame. The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce established the Salina Business Hall of Fame in 2005 to honor prominent business leaders both past and present who have made extraordinary contributions to Salina, earned the respect of the Salina community, and exemplified the Free Enterprise System.Categories for nominations include:Pioneer Award - 1858-1925Historic Award - 1926-1975Contemporary Award - 1976-presentNominations can be made by both chamber members and the general public. Nominees will be considered on the basis of several criteria,&nbsp; which include business excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, courageous thinking and action, inspiring leadership, community impact, positive role model, enduring accomplishments and local influence. Individuals nominated in previous years will be considered again this year. Nomination forms are available at the chamber office, 120 West Ash Street, or can be downloaded by clicking on the Hall of Fame quick link on the chamber’s <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org">website</a>. The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. Aug. 7.A special task force will determine the inductees. The inductees will be honored at a special luncheon this fall. A portrait of each inductee will be displayed in the physical Business Hall of Fame, located at the chamber office.Inductees in 2005 were H.D. Lee, William Graves, J.J Vanier, Al Schwan, and Charlie Walker. Inductees in 2006 were Alexander Campbell, M.J. Kennedy, Milton Morrison, Charles W. Shaver, and Roy Applequist. Inductees in 2007 were Oscar Seitz, Ralph Reitz, William Exline, Murray Wilson, and Lee Young. Inductees in 2008 were Dean Evans and Paul Junk. Inductees in 2009 were W.W. Watson, Whitley Austin, Verla Nesbitt Joscelyn, and Jack Vanier. Inductees is 2010 were Benjamin Aaron Litowich, Thomas Watson Roach and Mike Berkley. Inductees in 2011 were James R. Allen, William R. Geis, and Ben A. Sellers. Inductees in 2012 were William Phillips, Dick Brown, and George Frisbie. Inductees in 2013 were Ward Marshall and Karl Stutterheim. Inductees in 2014 were Charles R. Underwood and Charles E. Stevens, Jr. Inductees in 2015 were Frank Hageman, Baalis Kyger Smoot and Tom Pestinger. Inductees in 2016 were Herman H. Sudendorf, Rober J. Laujbengayer, and Sidney A. Reitz. Inductees in 2017 were Arthur M. Claflin, Dan Bolen, and Time Rogers. Inductees in 2018 were Milton Stiefel and Melvin and Marge Bergkamp. Inductees in 2019 were Earl Bane, Marshall Stanton, and Eugene and Margaret Logan.

Chamber seeks nominations for the Salina Business Hall of Fame

Due to the recent spike in confirmed COVID-19 cases in Saline County and the surrounding areas, and the recent mask orders, changes have been made to the Southeast of Saline graduation and prom plans scheduled for July 17 and 18.

Graduation will move to the more restrictive Option B on the graduation contingency plan, which will limit each graduate to four tickets for invited guests. Attendance will be by ticket only with no general admission to the public, Southeast of Saline noted in a news release. 

"Furthermore, those who are in attendance will be required to wear masks. Masks will be provided for the graduates. We regret having to make this adjustment but we are focused on providing these graduates with the recognition they deserve in the safest environment we can," the release explained.

It has also been decided that the prom and after-prom that were rescheduled for July 18 will be canceled and will not be rescheduled, according to the school.

Due to the recent spike in confirmed COVID-19 cases in Saline County and the surrounding areas, and the recent mask orders, changes have been made to the Southeast of Saline graduation and prom plans scheduled for July 17 and 18.Graduation will move to the more restrictive Option B on the graduation contingency plan, which will limit each graduate to four tickets for invited guests. Attendance will be by ticket only with no general admission to the public, Southeast of Saline noted in a news release. "Furthermore, those who are in attendance will be required to wear masks. Masks will be provided for the graduates. We regret having to make this adjustment but we are focused on providing these graduates with the recognition they deserve in the safest environment we can," the release explained.It has also been decided that the prom and after-prom that were rescheduled for July 18 will be canceled and will not be rescheduled, according to the school.

SES adjusts graduation ceremony, cancels prom

Today is Thursday, July 9, the 191st day of 2020. There are 175 days left in the year. 

On July 9, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was read aloud to Gen. George Washington's troops in New York. 

In 1755, British General Edward Braddock was mortally wounded as his troops suffered a massive defeat during the French and Indian War (he died four days later). 

In 1816, Argentina declared independence from Spain. 

In 1850, the 12th president of the United States, Zachary Taylor, died after serving only 16 months of his term. (He was succeeded by Millard Fillmore.) 

In 1918, 101 people were killed in a train collision in Nashville, Tennessee. The Distinguished Service Cross was established by an Act of Congress. 

In 1937, a fire at 20th Century Fox's film storage facility in Little Ferry, New Jersey, destroyed most of the studio's silent films. 

In 1943, during World War II, the Allies launched Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily. 

In 1947, the engagement of Britain's Princess Elizabeth to Lt. Philip Mountbatten was announced. 

In 1965, the Sonny &amp; Cher single "I Got You Babe" was released by ATCO Records. 

In 1974, former U.S. Chief Justice Earl Warren died in Washington at age 83. 

In 1982, Pan Am Flight 759, a Boeing 727, crashed in Kenner, Louisiana, shortly after takeoff from New Orleans International Airport, killing all 145 people aboard and eight people on the ground. 

In 1992, Democrat Bill Clinton tapped Tennessee Sen. Al Gore to be his running mate. Former CBS News commentator Eric Sevareid died in Washington at age 79. 

In 2004, a Senate Intelligence Committee report concluded the CIA had provided unfounded assessments of the threat posed by Iraq that the Bush administration had relied on to justify going to war. 

Ten years ago: The largest U.S.-Russia spy swap since the Cold War took place on a remote stretch of Vienna airport tarmac as planes from New York and Moscow arrived within minutes of each other with 10 Russian sleeper agents and four prisoners accused by Russia of spying for the West.

Five years ago: South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley relegated the Confederate flag to the state's "relic room" after the legislature passed a measure removing the flag from the grounds of the Statehouse in the wake of the slaughter of nine African-Americans at a church Bible study. The Obama administration said hackers had stolen Social Security numbers, health histories and other highly sensitive data from more than 21 million people, acknowledging that the breach of U.S. government computer systems was far more severe than previously disclosed. Saudi Arabia's Prince Saud al-Faisal, who had been the world's longest-serving foreign minister with 40 years in the post until his retirement earlier in the year, died at age 75.

One year ago: Billionaire H. Ross Perot, who ran for president as a third-party candidate in 1992, died at his home in Dallas; he was 89. A federal appeals court said President Donald Trump was violating the First Amendment any time he blocked a critic on Twitter to silence a viewpoint; the court warned that any elected official who uses social media for "all manner of official purposes" can't then exclude critics without violating free-speech protections. Actor Rip Torn, an Emmy winner for "The Larry Sanders Show," died at 88. The American League won its seventh straight baseball All-Star Game, 4-3 over the National League, as American League pitchers combined to strike out 16 batters.

Today's Birthdays: Actor-singer Ed Ames is 93. Former Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld is 88. Actor James Hampton is 84. Actor Richard Roundtree is 78. Singer Dee Dee Kenniebrew (The Crystals) is 75. Author Dean Koontz is 75. Football Hall of Famer O.J. Simpson is 73. Actor Chris Cooper is 69. TV personality John Tesh is 68. Country singer David Ball is 67. Business executive/TV personality Kevin O'Leary (TV: "Shark Tank") is 66. Rhythm-and-blues singer Debbie Sledge (Sister Sledge) is 66. Actor Jimmy Smits is 65. Actress Lisa Banes is 65. Actor Tom Hanks is 64. Singer Marc Almond is 63. Actress Kelly McGillis is 63. Rock singer Jim Kerr (Simple Minds) is 61. Actress-rock singer Courtney Love is 56. Rock musician Frank Bello (Anthrax) is 55. Actor David O'Hara is 55. Actress Pamela Adlon is 54. Rock musician Xavier Muriel is 52. Actor Scott Grimes is 49. Actor Enrique Murciano is 47. Rock singer-musician Isaac Brock (Modest Mouse) is 45. Musician/producer Jack White is 45. Rock musician Dan Estrin (Hoobastank) is 44. Actor-director Fred Savage is 44. Country musician Pat Allingham is 42. Actress Linda Park is 42. Actress Megan Parlen is 40. Rhythm-and-blues singer Kiely Williams (3lw) is 34. Actor Mitchel Musso is 29. Actress Georgie Henley is 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, July 9, the 191st day of 2020. There are 175 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On July 9, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was read aloud to Gen. George Washington's troops in New York. On this date: In 1755, British General Edward Braddock was mortally wounded as his troops suffered a massive defeat during the French and Indian War (he died four days later). In 1816, Argentina declared independence from Spain. In 1850, the 12th president of the United States, Zachary Taylor, died after serving only 16 months of his term. (He was succeeded by Millard Fillmore.) In 1918, 101 people were killed in a train collision in Nashville, Tennessee. The Distinguished Service Cross was established by an Act of Congress. In 1937, a fire at 20th Century Fox's film storage facility in Little Ferry, New Jersey, destroyed most of the studio's silent films. In 1943, during World War II, the Allies launched Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily. In 1947, the engagement of Britain's Princess Elizabeth to Lt. Philip Mountbatten was announced. In 1965, the Sonny &amp; Cher single "I Got You Babe" was released by ATCO Records. In 1974, former U.S. Chief Justice Earl Warren died in Washington at age 83. In 1982, Pan Am Flight 759, a Boeing 727, crashed in Kenner, Louisiana, shortly after takeoff from New Orleans International Airport, killing all 145 people aboard and eight people on the ground. In 1992, Democrat Bill Clinton tapped Tennessee Sen. Al Gore to be his running mate. Former CBS News commentator Eric Sevareid died in Washington at age 79. In 2004, a Senate Intelligence Committee report concluded the CIA had provided unfounded assessments of the threat posed by Iraq that the Bush administration had relied on to justify going to war. Ten years ago: The largest U.S.-Russia spy swap since the Cold War took place on a remote stretch of Vienna airport tarmac as planes from New York and Moscow arrived within minutes of each other with 10 Russian sleeper agents and four prisoners accused by Russia of spying for the West. Five years ago: South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley relegated the Confederate flag to the state's "relic room" after the legislature passed a measure removing the flag from the grounds of the Statehouse in the wake of the slaughter of nine African-Americans at a church Bible study. The Obama administration said hackers had stolen Social Security numbers, health histories and other highly sensitive data from more than 21 million people, acknowledging that the breach of U.S. government computer systems was far more severe than previously disclosed. Saudi Arabia's Prince Saud al-Faisal, who had been the world's longest-serving foreign minister with 40 years in the post until his retirement earlier in the year, died at age 75. One year ago: Billionaire H. Ross Perot, who ran for president as a third-party candidate in 1992, died at his home in Dallas; he was 89. A federal appeals court said President Donald Trump was violating the First Amendment any time he blocked a critic on Twitter to silence a viewpoint; the court warned that any elected official who uses social media for "all manner of official purposes" can't then exclude critics without violating free-speech protections. Actor Rip Torn, an Emmy winner for "The Larry Sanders Show," died at 88. The American League won its seventh straight baseball All-Star Game, 4-3 over the National League, as American League pitchers combined to strike out 16 batters. Today's Birthdays: Actor-singer Ed Ames is 93. Former Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld is 88. Actor James Hampton is 84. Actor Richard Roundtree is 78. Singer Dee Dee Kenniebrew (The Crystals) is 75. Author Dean Koontz is 75. Football Hall of Famer O.J. Simpson is 73. Actor Chris Cooper is 69. TV personality John Tesh is 68. Country singer David Ball is 67. Business executive/TV personality Kevin O'Leary (TV: "Shark Tank") is 66. Rhythm-and-blues singer Debbie Sledge (Sister Sledge) is 66. Actor Jimmy Smits is 65. Actress Lisa Banes is 65. Actor Tom Hanks is 64. Singer Marc Almond is 63. Actress Kelly McGillis is 63. Rock singer Jim Kerr (Simple Minds) is 61. Actress-rock singer Courtney Love is 56. Rock musician Frank Bello (Anthrax) is 55. Actor David O'Hara is 55. Actress Pamela Adlon is 54. Rock musician Xavier Muriel is 52. Actor Scott Grimes is 49. Actor Enrique Murciano is 47. Rock singer-musician Isaac Brock (Modest Mouse) is 45. Musician/producer Jack White is 45. Rock musician Dan Estrin (Hoobastank) is 44. Actor-director Fred Savage is 44. Country musician Pat Allingham is 42. Actress Linda Park is 42. Actress Megan Parlen is 40. Rhythm-and-blues singer Kiely Williams (3lw) is 34. Actor Mitchel Musso is 29. Actress Georgie Henley is 25.

Today in History -- July 9

The Kansas Highway Patrol is entered in the "Best Looking Cruiser Contest" sponsored by American Association of State Troopers. From the Kansas Highway Patrol Facebook page:

The Kansas Highway Patrol is entered in the "Best Looking Cruiser Contest" sponsored by American Association of State Troopers. From the Kansas Highway Patrol Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FkshighwayPatrol%2Fposts%2F3208794619186221&width=500" width="500" height="576" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

KHP entered in the 'Best Looking Cruiser Contest'

McPHERSON -- McPherson College has announced the names of students earning degrees and graduating from the college in May. 

The college honored the graduating class in the first-ever virtual commencement ceremony. A complete list of graduates and the ceremony is on the college website, <a href="https://www.mcpherson.edu/experiences/graduation/">https://www.mcpherson.edu/experiences/graduation/</a>.

Local and area students who earned degrees include the following.

Falun Kaleb Rogers, Bachelor of Science, Tech: Restoration Mngmt, cum laude Lincoln Brittni Harlow, Bachelor of Science, ID: Health Science Lindsborg Lori Friesen, Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry McPherson Kento Aizawa, Bachelor of Science, Mathematics, summa cum laude

Zackary Alexander, Bachelor of Science, Tech: Restoration Tech., magna cum laude

Rola Bwalya, Bachelor of Science, Biology, cum laude

Karley Clark, Bachelor of Science, Bus. Admin: Management

Lionel Ibonga, Bachelor of Science, Mathematics

Abigail Jantz-Allison, Bachelor of Science, ID: Health Science

Codi-Lane Jones, Bachelor of Science, ID: Health Science

Daniel Journey, Bachelor of Science, Tech: Restoration Tech., magna cum laude

Reed MacDougall, Bachelor of Arts, History

Gillian Martin, Bachelor of Science, Bus. Admin: Management

Killian Millner, Bachelor of Arts, Art: Graph Design Photog

Morgan Sechler, Bachelor of Science, Educ: Elementary Educ., summa cum laude

Stevie Stockham, Bachelor of Science, Educ: Elementary Educ., summa cum laude

Kaitlyn van Asselt, Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry, magna cum laude

Victoria Voyles, Bachelor of Science, Psych: Hlth &amp; Human Serv, summa cum laude Salina Joseph Isaacson, Bachelor of Arts, Communication&nbsp;&nbsp;

McPHERSON -- McPherson College has announced the names of students earning degrees and graduating from the college in May. The college honored the graduating class in the first-ever virtual commencement ceremony. A complete list of graduates and the ceremony is on the college website, <a href="https://www.mcpherson.edu/experiences/graduation/">https://www.mcpherson.edu/experiences/graduation/</a>.Local and area students who earned degrees include the following.Falun Kaleb Rogers, Bachelor of Science, Tech: Restoration Mngmt, cum laude Lincoln Brittni Harlow, Bachelor of Science, ID: Health Science Lindsborg Lori Friesen, Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry McPherson Kento Aizawa, Bachelor of Science, Mathematics, summa cum laude Zackary Alexander, Bachelor of Science, Tech: Restoration Tech., magna cum laude Rola Bwalya, Bachelor of Science, Biology, cum laude Karley Clark, Bachelor of Science, Bus. Admin: Management Lionel Ibonga, Bachelor of Science, Mathematics Abigail Jantz-Allison, Bachelor of Science, ID: Health Science Codi-Lane Jones, Bachelor of Science, ID: Health Science Daniel Journey, Bachelor of Science, Tech: Restoration Tech., magna cum laude Reed MacDougall, Bachelor of Arts, History Gillian Martin, Bachelor of Science, Bus. Admin: Management Killian Millner, Bachelor of Arts, Art: Graph Design Photog Morgan Sechler, Bachelor of Science, Educ: Elementary Educ., summa cum laude Stevie Stockham, Bachelor of Science, Educ: Elementary Educ., summa cum laude Kaitlyn van Asselt, Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry, magna cum laude Victoria Voyles, Bachelor of Science, Psych: Hlth &amp; Human Serv, summa cum laude Salina Joseph Isaacson, Bachelor of Arts, Communication&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local, area students earn degrees from McPherson College

ABILENE -- The Dickinson County Health Department on Wednesday reported four new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in the county to 18.

The latest Dickinson County cases include the following, according to the health department.

All four persons are currently maintaining in-home isolation and are stable. All contacts are being notified and will monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms, the health department noted.

ABILENE -- The Dickinson County Health Department on Wednesday reported four new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in the county to 18.The latest Dickinson County cases include the following, according to the health department.A 43-year-old femaleA 73-year-old femaleA 79-year-old maleA 25-year-old maleAll four persons are currently maintaining in-home isolation and are stable. All contacts are being notified and will monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms, the health department noted.

Dickinson County reports four new cases of COVID-19

Kustom Kemps of America today announced on its Facebook page that the 40th Leadsled Spectacular has been canceled. 

The event was scheduled for July 23-26 in Salina's Oakdale Park.

Following is the post from the group's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/227007410727305/">Facebook page</a>:

Kustom Kemps of America today announced on its Facebook page that the 40th Leadsled Spectacular has been canceled. The event was scheduled for July 23-26 in Salina's Oakdale Park.Following is the post from the group's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/227007410727305/">Facebook page</a>:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594268922656.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KKOA cancels 40th Leadsled Spectacular

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported three additional confirmed cases of COVID-19.

The cases are as follows, according to the health department.

Positive case No. 86 is a symptomatic female in her 40s with known exposure and is recovering at home.

Positive case No. 87 is a symptomatic female in her 30s with unknown exposure and recovered at home.

Positive case No. 88 is a symptomatic female in her 50s with known exposure and is recovering at home.

Of the county's 88 total confirmed cases, 78 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines, the health department noted.  Additionally, no cases are hospitalized and the county has recorded no COVID-19 deaths, the health department reported.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported three additional confirmed cases of COVID-19.The cases are as follows, according to the health department.Positive case No. 86 is a symptomatic female in her 40s with known exposure and is recovering at home.Positive case No. 87 is a symptomatic female in her 30s with unknown exposure and recovered at home.Positive case No. 88 is a symptomatic female in her 50s with known exposure and is recovering at home.Of the county's 88 total confirmed cases, 78 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines, the health department noted. Additionally, no cases are hospitalized and the county has recorded no COVID-19 deaths, the health department reported.

McPherson County reports three new cases of COVID-19

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Larry R. Magaee, 52, Utica, Mississippi, was&nbsp; westbound on U.S. 56 just west of 7th Avenue.

The semi rear-ended a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Joseph&nbsp;Balikowa, 44, Tulsa, OK., who had slowed&nbsp;down to make a left turn.

The 2015 Freightliner, carrying a load of baby chicks&nbsp; then entered the ditch, overturned and caught fire.

EMS transported a passenger in the 2015 semi Lester D. Curry, 58, Utica, Mississippi, to Wesley Medical Center.

Magaee and Balikowa were not transported for treatment. Curry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594250929943.png" alt="Wednesday crash scene photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday crash scene photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Larry R. Magaee, 52, Utica, Mississippi, was&nbsp; westbound on U.S. 56 just west of 7th Avenue.The semi rear-ended a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Joseph&nbsp;Balikowa, 44, Tulsa, OK., who had slowed&nbsp;down to make a left turn.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594250882930.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2015 Freightliner, carrying a load of baby chicks&nbsp; then entered the ditch, overturned and caught fire.EMS transported a passenger in the 2015 semi Lester D. Curry, 58, Utica, Mississippi, to Wesley Medical Center.Magaee and Balikowa were not transported for treatment. Curry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

1 man hospitalized after semi carrying baby chicks crashes, burns

The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the following counties in our area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594264888809.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyEllsworth CountyJewell CountyLincoln CountyMitchell CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountySaline County

Most counties in our area under severe thunderstorm watch

Here's Saline County's COVID-19 update for Wednesday:

There are 17 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County that have been identified since the Monday, July 6 report. The total for the county is now 190, with 118 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department and 70 that have recovered. *KDHE is reporting 169 positives for Saline County, which is incorrect. The total for Saline County is 190.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 17,618 cases and 282 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

Saline County Board of County Commissioners met in a special meeting today at 3 pm to re-visit the mask mandate. Commissioners voted 3-2 (Commissioner White and Sparks dissenting votes) to pass a County Resolution that requires the wearing of masks or other face coverings in public spaces in Saline County beginning at 12:01 am on July 9th, 2020. This resolution mirrors the City of Salina ordinance that was passed by their governing body on Monday. See the full resolution on our website at www.saline.org/coronavirus.

Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:

•Stay home if you’re sick

•Wear masks in public settings

•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings

•Avoid socializing with large groups

•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs

•Wash your hands frequently

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>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594247006377.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here's Saline County's COVID-19 update for Wednesday:There are 17 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County that have been identified since the Monday, July 6 report. The total for the county is now 190, with 118 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department and 70 that have recovered. *KDHE is reporting 169 positives for Saline County, which is incorrect. The total for Saline County is 190.According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 17,618 cases and 282 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Saline County Board of County Commissioners met in a special meeting today at 3 pm to re-visit the mask mandate. Commissioners voted 3-2 (Commissioner White and Sparks dissenting votes) to pass a County Resolution that requires the wearing of masks or other face coverings in public spaces in Saline County beginning at 12:01 am on July 9th, 2020. This resolution mirrors the City of Salina ordinance that was passed by their governing body on Monday. See the full resolution on our website at www.saline.org/coronavirus.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:•Stay home if you’re sick•Wear masks in public settings•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings•Avoid socializing with large groups•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs•Wash your hands frequentlyOnly 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>.

Saline County reports 17 new COVID-19 cases; county total now at 190

UPDATE: THE STORY HAS BEEN UPDATED TO INCLUDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM THE MEETING, AS WELL AS THE FINAL COPY OF THE RESOLUTION.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

During a special Wednesday afternoon meeting, the Saline County Commission voted 3-2 to reverse its decision of nearly a week ago and approved a resolution requiring the wearing of face masks or other coverings to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

The resolution, which can be seen below, will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Thursday for the entire county. 

County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes provided a review of the resolution then under consideration and spoke a bit about Saline County's history in dealing with COVID-19.

"We have been at this since March. Saline County has been in a declared disaster since March 27," Smith-Hanes said. 

Smith-Hanes noted that the commission, during its Tuesday meeting, the commission "expressed a desire for uniformity between the city and the county and willingness to meet in a special meeting once a copy of the city ordinance was received."

The copy of the city ordinance was received on Tuesday after the county commission meeting, and according to Smith-Hanes, County Counselor Mike Montoya spent the evening writing a draft of a county resolution that paralleled the city ordinance. 

Smith-Hanes noted that the requirements in the county draft paralleled the requirements in the city ordinance. Those requirements can be seen below.

Commission Chair Robert Vidricksen clarified the difference between the county and city documents. He noted that while the city ordinance could not go into effect until it was published in the county newspaper of record, the county, because of state statute, uses resolutions that are not required to be published before they can go into effect.

Vidricksen then opened the meeting to public comment. A number of persons on both sides of the mask issue got up and spoke. 

Ben Pruitt, who ran an unsuccessful campaign for a city commission seat last fall, voiced his displeasure with the proposed resolution.

"I'm not a child. I'm an adult. We elected all of you to do us a job and not dictate what we need to do. You look around. You watch the media. They say this. They say that. Make your decision. The facts are there. Do the research, but don't forget who put you all in office. And if you seek to re-elect, to get re-election, its probably not going to be very good if you vote to pass this. We're not children. We're adults. Thank you," Pruitt said.

Later in the meeting Commissioner Jim Weese, responded to Pruitt's comment when he said, "As far as comments, the gentleman was right. Every year, either a city or county commissioner is up for re-election, and it is the ability then to change your board if a decision comes down that you don't like, and I am good with that."

LaNay Meier thanked the commissioners for considering the resolution and noted that the issue is not a political one.

"I want to emphasize that this is not a political matter in my opinion. I just want to say that I am so grateful that you are here reconsidering this and, of course, I hope that you will pass this ordinance," Meier said. "It takes a lot of wisdom and compassion and caring for our citizens, and working with the city is just a no-brainer. That was an excellent thought and it's just a terrific idea. I want to say that I do hope you will pass it, of course. It's the best thing we can do for our county, city, because in the big, big picture, we're all in this together and we need to care about one another and keep politics out of it."

Melissa Hendricks "strongly encouraged" the the commission to uphold its original decision to not mandate masks.

"From the beginning of the COVID season in March, the governor and you guys told us that the goal was to flatten the curve. We did that. To my knowledge, our hospital was not overrun by COVID cases, and neither were many hospitals throughout the state of Kansas. We began lifting restrictions over two months ago in May, and at that time, neither our governor, our city, nor our county thought it was necessary to mandate masks. From the beginning, we knew that we would see an increase in cases as restrictions were lifted. Our city allowed various sporting events to take place, which brought people here from all over the state. Do you not see the hypocracy in that? Why is anyone in this room surprised or shocked by the fact that that the number of cases have gone up?" Hendricks said.

"I've been told over and over again that if we all just wear a mask, the virus will go away. Kids can go back to school. When did eradication become the goal? To sit here and mandate masks two months after the onset of lifting the restrictions is like deciding to put a condom on after your wife is already pregnant. It's a naive way of thinking," Hendricks continued. "The fact is more and more people are recovering from this virus. My family and I do not have underlying health conditions or elderly, at-risk people to worry about. My husband has worked on the front lines for a critical infrastructure business this whole time. He has been in and out of hot-spot cities, countless homes and businesses, and all without a mask. He has not gotten sick and if he has, his immune system has fought it off and that is what it's supposed to do. I recognize and sympathize with those families that have underlying health issues or elderly, at-risk individuals. Those people should be taking precautions to keep themselves safe from this virus, just like they would with influenza or any other illness. Individuals should be given the right to choose what is right for themselves and their families when it comes to wearing masks."

Commissioner Monte Shadwick said he believed it was important that if the commission passed the resolution, that it include a provision to review the resolution on July 28 and then every two weeks after. 

"I think that businesses out there need some certainty. There will be businesses that decide not to open through this, and I think that they need to make decisions on when possibly it could happen. If it's when a vaccine becomes available, that could be next year," Shadwick said.

Shadwick's request was later incorporated into the resolution.

Commissioner Roger Sparks said that while he agreed with the resolution, he believed the issue was one of personal responsibility. Sparks questioned whether people exempted under the resolution, such as those "with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability" needed to have a doctor's letter.

"And what happens if a business does not like them? You know. What happens?" Sparks asked.

Sparks also raised a question about the definition in the resolution that masks could be improvised "from household items such as scarfs, bandanas, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels."

"Have these products all been verifed by medical or scientific professionals? We have face masks being sold out there that say right on them 'will not stop COVID-19.' My whole thing comes to is  it really a perception of safety or is this a psychological manipulation?" Sparks said.

Commissioner Mike White expressed concern that if the county enacted the resolution, it would prevent the other encorporated cities in the county from enacting their own ordinances concerning mask wearing. It was later pointed out that the cities would be able to pass their own ordinances, regardless of what Saline County passed.

Weese then asked Montoya whether the county resolution, if passed, would affect the City of Salina's ordinance. Montoya replied, "No."

"If this resolution would pass, would it negate the ability of the City of Assaria to pass an ordinance of lesser degree?" Weese asked. 

Montoya replied, that if a city is incorporated, its officials would  be able to pass an ordinance pertaining to the city.

Weese then asked Tiller whether the curve in the county had been flattened.

"It has been. We are starting to see an increase in the hospitalizations at Salina Regional," Tiller said.

Weese noted that there has been a lot of confusing information put forth concerning the CDC. He asked Tiller what the CDC currently was saying about the wearing of face masks.

"The CDC still recommends the wearing of masks," Tiller said, and then provided information about a number of CDC articles that discussed mask use.

Weese said that if the resolution is accepted, "the best would be lives might be saved and we might be able to keep our community open and not have to go back to a shutdown and such."

Vidricksen thanked all who attended the meeting and showed an interest in the topic. 

"I agree with whoever said if everybody would just do their part and would social distance or whatever it takes to keep themselves and anyone else safe, if we would all do that, but it appears to me that we're not doing that. And that's why we're in the situation we're in," Vidricksen said. "It was a prudent thing to do, I think, to come in and revisit this, and to give us time. The governor gave us no time what so ever for us to come up with a resolution on last Thursday or to be able to react. I understand why my fellow commissioners voted the way they did with the enforcement thing. I understand their comments today. I agreed with almost everything that's been said in here today other than do we wear 'em or don't we wear 'em, because, you know, there has to be a line in the sand there for me."

Vidricksen then discussed the difference between the city and the county.

"The city does not have a health officer. The county does have a health officer, and I'm going to take some direction from a health officer. I've had, oh probably 25 physicians call me or email me and suggest that I do one thing or another, and I can tell you, the vote was 24 to one to wear the mask. My vote will go in favor of the health department and their suggestion," he said.

Vidricksen then asked the commissioners whether they had any additional comments. 

"Well I would just like to say, as somebody that voted against it on Thursday, the fact is 85 percent of the county is going to be under this tomorrow whether we accept this or not," Shadwick responded. "My concerns yesterday were, I think there needs to be a level playing field between people within the city and in the rural areas and I think that there needed to be some consistency. I still don't like the governor's one that she mandated to us the other day. I think the city's is a little more thoughtful. So I'm going to be somebody that's in the unique position, that probably my business is now going to be boycotted by both groups."

Shadwick then moved that the commission adopt the resolution with and amendment in Section 6 that the commission would review the issue on July 28 and then every other Tuesday after that. Weese seconded the motion. 

The commission's vote was 3-2 in favor of adopting the resolution, with Sparks and White voting against the motion.

UPDATE: THE STORY HAS BEEN UPDATED TO INCLUDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM THE MEETING, AS WELL AS THE FINAL COPY OF THE RESOLUTION.By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostDuring a special Wednesday afternoon meeting, the Saline County Commission voted 3-2 to reverse its decision of nearly a week ago and approved a resolution requiring the wearing of face masks or other coverings to help stop the spread of COVID-19.The resolution, which can be seen below, will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Thursday for the entire county. County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes provided a review of the resolution then under consideration and spoke a bit about Saline County's history in dealing with COVID-19."We have been at this since March. Saline County has been in a declared disaster since March 27," Smith-Hanes said. Smith-Hanes noted that the commission, during its Tuesday meeting, the commission "expressed a desire for uniformity between the city and the county and willingness to meet in a special meeting once a copy of the city ordinance was received."The copy of the city ordinance was received on Tuesday after the county commission meeting, and according to Smith-Hanes, County Counselor Mike Montoya spent the evening writing a draft of a county resolution that paralleled the city ordinance. Smith-Hanes noted that the requirements in the county draft paralleled the requirements in the city ordinance. Those requirements can be seen below.Commission Chair Robert Vidricksen clarified the difference between the county and city documents. He noted that while the city ordinance could not go into effect until it was published in the county newspaper of record, the county, because of state statute, uses resolutions that are not required to be published before they can go into effect.Vidricksen then opened the meeting to public comment. A number of persons on both sides of the mask issue got up and spoke. Ben Pruitt, who ran an unsuccessful campaign for a city commission seat last fall, voiced his displeasure with the proposed resolution."I'm not a child. I'm an adult. We elected all of you to do us a job and not dictate what we need to do. You look around. You watch the media. They say this. They say that. Make your decision. The facts are there. Do the research, but don't forget who put you all in office. And if you seek to re-elect, to get re-election, its probably not going to be very good if you vote to pass this. We're not children. We're adults. Thank you," Pruitt said.Later in the meeting Commissioner Jim Weese, responded to Pruitt's comment when he said, "As far as comments, the gentleman was right. Every year, either a city or county commissioner is up for re-election, and it is the ability then to change your board if a decision comes down that you don't like, and I am good with that."LaNay Meier thanked the commissioners for considering the resolution and noted that the issue is not a political one."I want to emphasize that this is not a political matter in my opinion. I just want to say that I am so grateful that you are here reconsidering this and, of course, I hope that you will pass this ordinance," Meier said. "It takes a lot of wisdom and compassion and caring for our citizens, and working with the city is just a no-brainer. That was an excellent thought and it's just a terrific idea. I want to say that I do hope you will pass it, of course. It's the best thing we can do for our county, city, because in the big, big picture, we're all in this together and we need to care about one another and keep politics out of it."Melissa Hendricks "strongly encouraged" the the commission to uphold its original decision to not mandate masks."From the beginning of the COVID season in March, the governor and you guys told us that the goal was to flatten the curve. We did that. To my knowledge, our hospital was not overrun by COVID cases, and neither were many hospitals throughout the state of Kansas. We began lifting restrictions over two months ago in May, and at that time, neither our governor, our city, nor our county thought it was necessary to mandate masks. From the beginning, we knew that we would see an increase in cases as restrictions were lifted. Our city allowed various sporting events to take place, which brought people here from all over the state. Do you not see the hypocracy in that? Why is anyone in this room surprised or shocked by the fact that that the number of cases have gone up?" Hendricks said."I've been told over and over again that if we all just wear a mask, the virus will go away. Kids can go back to school. When did eradication become the goal? To sit here and mandate masks two months after the onset of lifting the restrictions is like deciding to put a condom on after your wife is already pregnant. It's a naive way of thinking," Hendricks continued. "The fact is more and more people are recovering from this virus. My family and I do not have underlying health conditions or elderly, at-risk people to worry about. My husband has worked on the front lines for a critical infrastructure business this whole time. He has been in and out of hot-spot cities, countless homes and businesses, and all without a mask. He has not gotten sick and if he has, his immune system has fought it off and that is what it's supposed to do. I recognize and sympathize with those families that have underlying health issues or elderly, at-risk individuals. Those people should be taking precautions to keep themselves safe from this virus, just like they would with influenza or any other illness. Individuals should be given the right to choose what is right for themselves and their families when it comes to wearing masks."Commissioner Monte Shadwick said he believed it was important that if the commission passed the resolution, that it include a provision to review the resolution on July 28 and then every two weeks after. "I think that businesses out there need some certainty. There will be businesses that decide not to open through this, and I think that they need to make decisions on when possibly it could happen. If it's when a vaccine becomes available, that could be next year," Shadwick said.Shadwick's request was later incorporated into the resolution.Commissioner Roger Sparks said that while he agreed with the resolution, he believed the issue was one of personal responsibility. Sparks questioned whether people exempted under the resolution, such as those "with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability" needed to have a doctor's letter."And what happens if a business does not like them? You know. What happens?" Sparks asked.Sparks also raised a question about the definition in the resolution that masks could be improvised "from household items such as scarfs, bandanas, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.""Have these products all been verifed by medical or scientific professionals? We have face masks being sold out there that say right on them 'will not stop COVID-19.' My whole thing comes to is it really a perception of safety or is this a psychological manipulation?" Sparks said.Commissioner Mike White expressed concern that if the county enacted the resolution, it would prevent the other encorporated cities in the county from enacting their own ordinances concerning mask wearing. It was later pointed out that the cities would be able to pass their own ordinances, regardless of what Saline County passed.Weese then asked Montoya whether the county resolution, if passed, would affect the City of Salina's ordinance. Montoya replied, "No.""If this resolution would pass, would it negate the ability of the City of Assaria to pass an ordinance of lesser degree?" Weese asked. Montoya replied, that if a city is incorporated, its officials would be able to pass an ordinance pertaining to the city.Weese then asked Tiller whether the curve in the county had been flattened."It has been. We are starting to see an increase in the hospitalizations at Salina Regional," Tiller said.Weese noted that there has been a lot of confusing information put forth concerning the CDC. He asked Tiller what the CDC currently was saying about the wearing of face masks."The CDC still recommends the wearing of masks," Tiller said, and then provided information about a number of CDC articles that discussed mask use.Weese said that if the resolution is accepted, "the best would be lives might be saved and we might be able to keep our community open and not have to go back to a shutdown and such."Vidricksen thanked all who attended the meeting and showed an interest in the topic. "I agree with whoever said if everybody would just do their part and would social distance or whatever it takes to keep themselves and anyone else safe, if we would all do that, but it appears to me that we're not doing that. And that's why we're in the situation we're in," Vidricksen said. "It was a prudent thing to do, I think, to come in and revisit this, and to give us time. The governor gave us no time what so ever for us to come up with a resolution on last Thursday or to be able to react. I understand why my fellow commissioners voted the way they did with the enforcement thing. I understand their comments today. I agreed with almost everything that's been said in here today other than do we wear 'em or don't we wear 'em, because, you know, there has to be a line in the sand there for me."Vidricksen then discussed the difference between the city and the county."The city does not have a health officer. The county does have a health officer, and I'm going to take some direction from a health officer. I've had, oh probably 25 physicians call me or email me and suggest that I do one thing or another, and I can tell you, the vote was 24 to one to wear the mask. My vote will go in favor of the health department and their suggestion," he said.Vidricksen then asked the commissioners whether they had any additional comments. "Well I would just like to say, as somebody that voted against it on Thursday, the fact is 85 percent of the county is going to be under this tomorrow whether we accept this or not," Shadwick responded. "My concerns yesterday were, I think there needs to be a level playing field between people within the city and in the rural areas and I think that there needed to be some consistency. I still don't like the governor's one that she mandated to us the other day. I think the city's is a little more thoughtful. So I'm going to be somebody that's in the unique position, that probably my business is now going to be boycotted by both groups."Shadwick then moved that the commission adopt the resolution with and amendment in Section 6 that the commission would review the issue on July 28 and then every other Tuesday after that. Weese seconded the motion. The commission's vote was 3-2 in favor of adopting the resolution, with Sparks and White voting against the motion.A copy of the resolution appears below.<figure>
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UPDATE: Saline County approves face covering resolution

LINCOLN -- The Lincoln County Health Department today confirmed a positive case of COVID-19.

"The Lincoln County Health Department received notification today confirming a positive case of COVID-19 in an individual who lives in Lincoln County. The health department is calling identified contacts of the positive case. This person is in isolation at home," the health department noted in a news release.

In late June, the health department reported a confirmed case, however the person in question was temporarily living outside Kansas, had no Kansas contacts, and no exposure in Kansas. By July 1, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment had removed the person from Lincoln County's official COVID-19 count.

LINCOLN -- The Lincoln County Health Department today confirmed a positive case of COVID-19."The Lincoln County Health Department received notification today confirming a positive case of COVID-19 in an individual who lives in Lincoln County. The health department is calling identified contacts of the positive case. This person is in isolation at home," the health department noted in a news release.In late June, the health department reported a confirmed case, however the person in question was temporarily living outside Kansas, had no Kansas contacts, and no exposure in Kansas. By July 1, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment had removed the person from Lincoln County's official COVID-19 count.

Lincoln County reports COVID-19 case

The City of Salina is providing a mask sign pdf. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salina.ks.gov/">City of Salina</a> Facebook page:

The City of Salina is providing a mask sign pdf. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salina.ks.gov/">City of Salina</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalina.ks.gov%2Fphotos%2Fa.10153627179731339%2F10157926614231339%2F%3Ftype%3D3&width=500" width="500" height="654" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

City of Salina provides mask sign for businesses to print

Saline County has announced the closing of a section of South Holmes Road.

According to information from the Road and Bridge Department, South Holmes Road between East Schilling Road and East Water Well Road will be closed for an indeterminate amount of time to through traffic for replacement of a cross road drainage structure. 

Motorists are advised to allow a few extra minutes of travel time to reach their destinations.  Local and emergency traffic will be provided access to private property within the sections of closed road at all times but only from the side upon which the property lies.

Saline County has announced the closing of a section of South Holmes Road.According to information from the Road and Bridge Department, South Holmes Road between East Schilling Road and East Water Well Road will be closed for an indeterminate amount of time to through traffic for replacement of a cross road drainage structure. Motorists are advised to allow a few extra minutes of travel time to reach their destinations. Local and emergency traffic will be provided access to private property within the sections of closed road at all times but only from the side upon which the property lies.

County closes part of South Holmes Road for drainage structure work

Saline County Commissioners are expected to make their final decision on the 2021 budget at next week's meeting.

During their Tuesday meeting, the commissioners reviewed a draft of the 2021 budget and provided their recommendations based on County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes' recommendations, according to information provided by the county. Smith-Hanes "will take the commissioner’s recommendations and update the spreadsheet for next week’s meeting for the commissioners to make their final decisions on proceeding with publishing the budget," the county information noted.

Additionally, commissioners appointed a Coronavirus Relief Fund Advisory Committee to provide recommendations concerning $11,026,434 in funds the county is getting through the federal CARES Act. Nearly 20 people applied to be on the committee, the county noted. Persons appointed to the committee include the following.

Other commission business conducted Tuesday includes the following, according to the county.

Saline County Commissioners are expected to make their final decision on the 2021 budget at next week's meeting.During their Tuesday meeting, the commissioners reviewed a draft of the 2021 budget and provided their recommendations based on County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes' recommendations, according to information provided by the county. Smith-Hanes "will take the commissioner’s recommendations and update the spreadsheet for next week’s meeting for the commissioners to make their final decisions on proceeding with publishing the budget," the county information noted.Additionally, commissioners appointed a Coronavirus Relief Fund Advisory Committee to provide recommendations concerning $11,026,434 in funds the county is getting through the federal CARES Act. Nearly 20 people applied to be on the committee, the county noted. Persons appointed to the committee include the following.Tom BellKristin GunnDirk HutchinsonCharles RothPriscilla SmithMichelle BarkleyPhillip Smith-HanesOther commission business conducted Tuesday includes the following, according to the county.•The Saline County Sheriff’s Office was awarded the AAA Silver Award from the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation, Safety, and Technology. The sheriff’s office is one out of 13 sheriff’s offices in Kansas that received the award this year. The Saline County Sheriff’s Office has department policies on seatbelt usage, they participate in the S.A.F.E. (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program, they conduct dedicated seatbelt and DUI enforcement, and perform child seat safety checks. •Darren Fishel, Road and Bridge Department director, provided a bi-monthly update on the activities in his department. They have replaced 11 culverts and 456 road signs, completed 26 miles of edge wedging, and many projects associated with re-shaping ditches and roads. They are gearing up to work on the roads in Sundowner West, including building the road up, reshaping, and shaping/cleaning out the ditches.•Jason Tiller, Health Department director, provided an update on the COVID-19 situation. The Health Department has added three additional temporary staff to assist with disease investigation and contact tracing. Commissioners discussed the mandatory mask ordinance that the city commission passed Monday night. Staff had not seen the written ordinance at the time of the commission meeting, but a copy of it has been sent to the commissioners and county counselor for review. Commissioners reached a consensus that they are willing to review the city’s ordinance and have called a special meeting Wednesday at 3 p.m. in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, to determine if the county commission would be interested in issuing a mask mandate for all of Saline County that may mirror the city’s ordinance. Commissioners discussed the decisions that were made last Thursday with their action to not adopt the governor’s mandate. Commissioners are in support of mask use but saw many issues with the governor’s mandate when it came to enforcement, exemptions, and guidelines. •Commissioners approved the acceptance of four grants for Community Corrections:$901,072 Adult Comprehensive Plan Application and Budget Grant that covers the salary and benefits for 15 staff, 60 percent of facility costs, and costs for client services. This is an increase of $42,908 from last year.$157,253 Reinvestment Grant Renewal which is a grant that covers the partnership with CAPS to continue the services that they assist with providing to youth and their families.$244,026 Behavioral Health Grant that covers the cost for one high risk Intensive Supervision Officer, program provider, and recovery specialist that assists with client services such as mental health evaluations and treatment and substance abuse evaluations and treatment.$973,888 Juvenile Services Grant that covers programs for juvenile intake and assessment, juvenile intensive supervision, community case management, immediate intervention programs, court services incentives, and prevention funds.Additionally, commissioners met in three executive session:•One for attorney/client privilege regarding the expo center•One to discuss non-elected personnel•One for employee/employer negotiations