Tobacco use and vaping in City of Salina Parks is the topic of an upcoming meeting.

The Salina Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will meet on Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. at the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 North Fifth Street, to discuss the use of tobacco products and vaping in City of Salina parks.

The public is encouraged to attend, and there will be an opportunity for public comment as part of the meeting agenda.

Masks are required to be worn upon entering the building and while seated. Seating will be arranged so that social distancing can take place during the meeting.


Tobacco use and vaping in City of Salina Parks is the topic of an upcoming meeting.The Salina Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will meet on Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. at the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 North Fifth Street, to discuss the use of tobacco products and vaping in City of Salina parks.The public is encouraged to attend, and there will be an opportunity for public comment as part of the meeting agenda.Masks are required to be worn upon entering the building and while seated. Seating will be arranged so that social distancing can take place during the meeting.

Parks Advisory Board to discuss use of tobacco, vaping in city parks

OSAWATOMIE -- Governor Laura Kelly, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism Secretary Brad Loveless, and others on Wednesday recognized recent improvements made to the Flint Hills Trail.

The group met at mile zero in Osawatomie to help cut the ribbon on recent improvements, including a new two-mile portion of the trail and a parking lot.

The 117-mile Flint Hills Trail State Park stretches from Osawatomie to Herington and passes through five counties and several communities along the way. The trail is built on an old rail corridor and is the seventh-longest rail-trail in America. The Flint Hills Trail generally follows the Santa Fe National Historic Trail route and was designated a state park in 2018. 

Find out more information about Flint Hills Trail at&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Flint-Hills-Trail">https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Flint-Hills-Trail</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602114794488.jpeg" alt="State officials and others cut the ribbon at mile zero of the Flint Hills Trail. Photo courtesy the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kdwpt/">KDWPT Facebook page</a>" />
 <figcaption>State officials and others cut the ribbon at mile zero of the Flint Hills Trail. Photo courtesy the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kdwpt/">KDWPT Facebook page</a></figcaption>
 </figure>OSAWATOMIE -- Governor Laura Kelly, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism Secretary Brad Loveless, and others on Wednesday recognized recent improvements made to the Flint Hills Trail.The group met at mile zero in Osawatomie to help cut the ribbon on recent improvements, including a new two-mile portion of the trail and a parking lot.The 117-mile Flint Hills Trail State Park stretches from Osawatomie to Herington and passes through five counties and several communities along the way. The trail is built on an old rail corridor and is the seventh-longest rail-trail in America. The Flint Hills Trail generally follows the Santa Fe National Historic Trail route and was designated a state park in 2018. Find out more information about Flint Hills Trail at&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Flint-Hills-Trail">https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Flint-Hills-Trail</a>.

State recognizes Flint Hills Trail improvements

Today is Thursday, Oct. 8, the 282nd day of 2020. There are 84 days left in the year. 

On Oct. 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire erupted; fires also broke out in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and in several communities in Michigan. 

In 1890, American aviation hero Eddie Rickenbacker was born in Columbus, Ohio.

In 1934, Bruno Hauptmann was indicted by a grand jury in New Jersey for murder in the death of the kidnapped son of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh. 

In 1945, President Harry S. Truman told a press conference in Tiptonville, Tennessee, that the secret scientific knowledge behind the atomic bomb would be shared only with Britain and Canada. 

In 1981, at the White House, President Ronald Reagan greeted former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon, who were preparing to travel to Egypt for the funeral of Anwar Sadat.

In 1985, the hijackers of the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro killed American passenger Leon Klinghoffer, who was in a wheelchair, and threw his body overboard. 

In 1997, Scientists reported the Mars Pathfinder had yielded what could be the strongest evidence yet that Mars might once have been hospitable to life. 

In 1998, the House triggered an open-ended impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton in a momentous 258-176 vote; 31 Democrats joined majority Republicans in opening the way for nationally televised impeachment hearings. 

In 2002, A federal judge approved President George W. Bush's request to reopen West Coast ports, ending a 10-day labor lockout that was costing the U.S. economy an estimated $1 to $2 billion a day. 

In 2005, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake flattened villages on the Pakistan-India border, killing an estimated 86,000 people. 

In 2014, Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States, died at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas 10 days after being admitted.

In 2017, Harvey Weinstein was fired from The Weinstein Company amid allegations that he was responsible for decades of sexual harassment. Vice President Mike Pence left the 49ers-Colts game in Indianapolis after about a dozen San Francisco players took a knee during the national anthem. 

In 2018, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees became the NFL's all-time leader in yards passing during a 43-19 win over Washington.

Ten years ago: Imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo won the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize, prompting a furious response from China. British aid worker Linda Norgrove, who'd been taken captive in Afghanistan, was killed during a U.S. special forces rescue attempt, apparently by a U.S. grenade. Gen. James Jones announced he was quitting as President Barack Obama's national security adviser. Albertina Walker, the Grammy-winning singer from Chicago known as the "Queen of Gospel," died at age 81.

Five years ago: Volkswagen's top U.S. executive, Michael Horn, offered deep apologies yet sought to distance himself from the emissions scandal enveloping the world's largest automaker, asserting before a congressional subcommittee that top corporate officials had no knowledge of the cheating software installed in 11 million diesel cars. Svetlana Alexievich, a Belarusian journalist and prose writer, won the Nobel Prize in literature. Chef Paul Prudhomme, 75, who'd sparked a nationwide interest in Cajun food, died in New Orleans.

One year ago: White House Counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to House leaders declaring that President Donald Trump would not cooperate with what the letter called an "illegitimate" impeachment investigation; Democrats responded that the letter was a clear reason to write an article of impeachment charging Trump with obstruction. Home in Vermont while recovering from a heart attack a week earlier, Bernie Sanders said he had no plans to abandon his Democratic presidential campaign, but that he might slow down from a frenetic pace that could have contributed to his health problems. Democrat Joe Biden unveiled an education plan that would make community and technical college free, and federal college loan programs more generous. Business executive Gregory Abbott and his wife Marcia were each sentenced to a month in prison for paying $125,000 to rig their daughter's college entrance exams.

Today's Birthdays: Entertainment reporter Rona Barrett is 84. Actor Paul Hogan is 81. Rhythm-and-blues singer Fred Cash (The Impressions) is 80. Civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson is 79. Comedian Chevy Chase is 77. Author R.L. Stine is 77. Actor Dale Dye is 76. Country singer Susan Raye is 76. TV personality Sarah Purcell is 72. Rhythm-and-blues singer Airrion Love (The Stylistics) is 71. Actor Sigourney Weaver is 71. Rhythm-and-blues singer Robert "Kool" Bell (Kool &amp; the Gang) is 70. Producer-director Edward Zwick is 68. Country singer-musician Ricky Lee Phelps is 67. Actor Michael Dudikoff is 66. Comedian Darrell Hammond is 65. Actor Stephanie Zimbalist is 64. Rock musician Mitch Marine is 59. Actor Kim Wayans is 59. Rock singer Steve Perry (Cherry Poppin' Daddies) is 57. Actor Ian Hart is 56. Gospel/rhythm-and-blues singer CeCe Winans is 56. Rock musician C.J. Ramone (The Ramones) is 55. Actor-producer Karyn Parsons is 54. Singer-producer Teddy Riley is 54. Actor Emily Procter is 52. Actor Dylan Neal is 51. Actor-screenwriter Matt Damon is 50. Actor-comedian Robert Kelly is 50. The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is 50. Actor Martin Henderson is 46. Actor Kristanna Loken is 41. Rhythm-and-blues singer Byron Reeder (Mista) is 41. Rock-soul singer-musician Noelle Scaggs (Fitz and the Tantrums) is 41. Actor Nick Cannon is 40. Actor J.R. Ramirez is 40. Actor Max Crumm is 35. Singer-songwriter-producer Bruno Mars is 35. Actor Angus T. Jones is 27. Actor Molly Quinn is 27. Actor/singer Bella Thorne is 23.

<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, Oct. 8, the 282nd day of 2020. There are 84 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Oct. 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire erupted; fires also broke out in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and in several communities in Michigan. On this date: In 1890, American aviation hero Eddie Rickenbacker was born in Columbus, Ohio.In 1934, Bruno Hauptmann was indicted by a grand jury in New Jersey for murder in the death of the kidnapped son of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh. In 1945, President Harry S. Truman told a press conference in Tiptonville, Tennessee, that the secret scientific knowledge behind the atomic bomb would be shared only with Britain and Canada. In 1981, at the White House, President Ronald Reagan greeted former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon, who were preparing to travel to Egypt for the funeral of Anwar Sadat.In 1985, the hijackers of the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro killed American passenger Leon Klinghoffer, who was in a wheelchair, and threw his body overboard. In 1997, Scientists reported the Mars Pathfinder had yielded what could be the strongest evidence yet that Mars might once have been hospitable to life. In 1998, the House triggered an open-ended impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton in a momentous 258-176 vote; 31 Democrats joined majority Republicans in opening the way for nationally televised impeachment hearings. In 2002, A federal judge approved President George W. Bush's request to reopen West Coast ports, ending a 10-day labor lockout that was costing the U.S. economy an estimated $1 to $2 billion a day. In 2005, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake flattened villages on the Pakistan-India border, killing an estimated 86,000 people. In 2014, Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States, died at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas 10 days after being admitted.In 2017, Harvey Weinstein was fired from The Weinstein Company amid allegations that he was responsible for decades of sexual harassment. Vice President Mike Pence left the 49ers-Colts game in Indianapolis after about a dozen San Francisco players took a knee during the national anthem. In 2018, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees became the NFL's all-time leader in yards passing during a 43-19 win over Washington.Ten years ago: Imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo won the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize, prompting a furious response from China. British aid worker Linda Norgrove, who'd been taken captive in Afghanistan, was killed during a U.S. special forces rescue attempt, apparently by a U.S. grenade. Gen. James Jones announced he was quitting as President Barack Obama's national security adviser. Albertina Walker, the Grammy-winning singer from Chicago known as the "Queen of Gospel," died at age 81.Five years ago: Volkswagen's top U.S. executive, Michael Horn, offered deep apologies yet sought to distance himself from the emissions scandal enveloping the world's largest automaker, asserting before a congressional subcommittee that top corporate officials had no knowledge of the cheating software installed in 11 million diesel cars. Svetlana Alexievich, a Belarusian journalist and prose writer, won the Nobel Prize in literature. Chef Paul Prudhomme, 75, who'd sparked a nationwide interest in Cajun food, died in New Orleans.One year ago: White House Counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to House leaders declaring that President Donald Trump would not cooperate with what the letter called an "illegitimate" impeachment investigation; Democrats responded that the letter was a clear reason to write an article of impeachment charging Trump with obstruction. Home in Vermont while recovering from a heart attack a week earlier, Bernie Sanders said he had no plans to abandon his Democratic presidential campaign, but that he might slow down from a frenetic pace that could have contributed to his health problems. Democrat Joe Biden unveiled an education plan that would make community and technical college free, and federal college loan programs more generous. Business executive Gregory Abbott and his wife Marcia were each sentenced to a month in prison for paying $125,000 to rig their daughter's college entrance exams.Today's Birthdays: Entertainment reporter Rona Barrett is 84. Actor Paul Hogan is 81. Rhythm-and-blues singer Fred Cash (The Impressions) is 80. Civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson is 79. Comedian Chevy Chase is 77. Author R.L. Stine is 77. Actor Dale Dye is 76. Country singer Susan Raye is 76. TV personality Sarah Purcell is 72. Rhythm-and-blues singer Airrion Love (The Stylistics) is 71. Actor Sigourney Weaver is 71. Rhythm-and-blues singer Robert "Kool" Bell (Kool &amp; the Gang) is 70. Producer-director Edward Zwick is 68. Country singer-musician Ricky Lee Phelps is 67. Actor Michael Dudikoff is 66. Comedian Darrell Hammond is 65. Actor Stephanie Zimbalist is 64. Rock musician Mitch Marine is 59. Actor Kim Wayans is 59. Rock singer Steve Perry (Cherry Poppin' Daddies) is 57. Actor Ian Hart is 56. Gospel/rhythm-and-blues singer CeCe Winans is 56. Rock musician C.J. Ramone (The Ramones) is 55. Actor-producer Karyn Parsons is 54. Singer-producer Teddy Riley is 54. Actor Emily Procter is 52. Actor Dylan Neal is 51. Actor-screenwriter Matt Damon is 50. Actor-comedian Robert Kelly is 50. The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is 50. Actor Martin Henderson is 46. Actor Kristanna Loken is 41. Rhythm-and-blues singer Byron Reeder (Mista) is 41. Rock-soul singer-musician Noelle Scaggs (Fitz and the Tantrums) is 41. Actor Nick Cannon is 40. Actor J.R. Ramirez is 40. Actor Max Crumm is 35. Singer-songwriter-producer Bruno Mars is 35. Actor Angus T. Jones is 27. Actor Molly Quinn is 27. Actor/singer Bella Thorne is 23.

Today in History -- Oct. 8

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for 26 state highway construction and maintenance projects in Kansas. 

The letting took place Sept. 16, 2020, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Pottawatomie County --&nbsp;75 C‑4938‑01 – Dyer Road (RS 536) beginning approximately 400 feet north of Rocky Lane, at the entrance to the Little Grill restaurant north through the horizontal curve, grading and surfacing, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kan., $520,963.63.

Riley&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑81 KA‑5919‑01 ‑ I‑70, from the Geary/Riley county line east to the Wabaunsee/Riley county line, pavement marking, 6.0 miles,&nbsp;Innovative&nbsp;Marking Systems Inc., Bluffdale,&nbsp;Utah, $588,472.65.

Wabaunsee&nbsp;County --&nbsp;99‑99 KA‑4744‑03 – Including the following routes K‑99, K‑138, K‑185, signing, 11.4 miles,&nbsp;Collins &amp; Hermann&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;Saint Louis,&nbsp;Mo., $52,500.80.

Wabaunsee&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑99 KA‑5920‑01 ‑ I‑70, from the Wabaunsee/Riley county line east to the end of the concrete east of the K‑30/I‑70/Windy Hill Road interchange, pavement marking, 19.4 miles,&nbsp;Innovative&nbsp;Marking Systems Inc., Bluffdale,&nbsp;Utah,&nbsp;$1,880,201.55.

Wyandotte&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑5628‑01 – I-70, overhead sign truss serial # 105S0069 over the ramp from westbound I‑70 located at the split to northbound I‑635 and southbound I‑635, signing,&nbsp;Fulsom&nbsp;Brothers, Inc., Cedar&nbsp;Vale,&nbsp;Kan., $143,143.00.

Wyandotte&nbsp;County --&nbsp;05‑105 N‑0677‑01 ‑ K‑5 (Leavenworth Road), from 78th Street to 63rd Street, grading and surfacing, 1.8 miles,&nbsp;Amino Brothers Company Inc., Kansas City,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$8,483,967.54.

Statewide --&nbsp;70‑106 KA‑4744‑04 ‑ I‑70, from the Geary/Riley county line east to the KTA Toll Plaza in Topeka, signing, 50.8 miles,&nbsp;Collins &amp; Hermann&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;St.&nbsp;Louis, Mo.,&nbsp;$3,370,000.00.

Statewide --&nbsp;106 TE‑0402‑06 ‑ Flint Hills Trail: from 17th Street east to South Lewelling Road in Osage City, special, 4.1 miles,&nbsp;Killough Construction&nbsp;Inc., Ottawa,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$1,113,919.93.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;181‑106 KA‑5916‑01 ‑ K‑181, from the K‑232/K‑181 junction east to the Russell/Lincoln county line, from the Russell/Lincoln county line east to the Lincoln/Mitchell county line and from the Lincoln/Mitchell county line north to the Mitchell/Osborne county line, milling and overlay, 36.5 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas&nbsp;Inc&nbsp;Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kan., $6,067,762.63.

Gove&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑32 KA‑5839‑01 ‑ I‑70, beginning 1 mile west of the east K‑23 Spur east for approximately 9 miles, rumble strip installation, 9.0 miles,&nbsp;Surface Preparation Technologies&nbsp;LLC,&nbsp;New Kingstown,&nbsp;Penn.,&nbsp;$155,727.20.

Norton&nbsp;County --&nbsp;36‑69 KA‑5810‑01 – U.S. 36, from the east U.S. 36/K‑383 junction east to the Norton/Phillips county line, surface recycle, 8.4 miles,&nbsp;Dustrol Inc.,&nbsp;Towanda,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$911,717.63.

Russell&nbsp;County --&nbsp;18‑84 KA‑3931‑01 ‑ K‑18, bridge #051 over Coon Creek located 0.36&nbsp;mile east of the east U.S. 281 junction, bridge replacement,&nbsp;L &amp;&nbsp;M Contractors Inc., Great&nbsp;Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$1,439,849.23.

Sherman&nbsp;County --&nbsp;27‑91 KA‑5809‑01 ‑ K‑27, from the K‑27/U.S. 24B junction north to the Cheyenne/Sherman county line, sealing, 16.6 miles,&nbsp;Heft&nbsp;and Sons LLC,&nbsp;Greensburg,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$628,267.50.

Smith&nbsp;County --&nbsp;92 KA‑5918‑01 ‑ K‑8, from the U.S. 36/K‑8 junction north to the Nebraska state line; U.S. 36, from the Phillips/Smith county line east to the Jewel/Smith county line; K‑182, from the U.S. 36/K‑182 junction north to Bellaire (entire route); K‑191, from the geographic center of the contiguous United States east to the U.S. 281/K‑191 junction (entire route); K‑204, from the U.S. 36/K‑204 junction east to the west city limits of Smith Center (entire route); K‑248, from the old U.S. 36/K‑248 junction north to the U.S. 36/K‑248 junction (entire route); U.S. 281, from the east U.S. 36/U.S. 281 junction north to the Nebraska state line, milling and overlay, 66.2 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$10,439,835.86.

Woodson&nbsp;County --&nbsp;104 C‑4947‑01 – Bridge over South Big Creek located 10.7 miles north and 9 miles west of the U.S. 54/ U.S. 75 junction, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;B &amp; B Bridge Company&nbsp;LLC, St. Paul, Kan., $525,462.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;69‑106 KA‑1554‑02 – U.S. 69, from 3 miles north of the north Arma city limits to 950 feet north of the Crawford/Bourbon county line, grade, bridge and surfacing, 5.7 miles,&nbsp;Bob Bergkamp&nbsp;Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kan., $21,624,010.43.

Barton&nbsp;County --&nbsp;156‑5 KA‑5811‑01 ‑ K‑156, from the east K‑156/U.S. 56 junction northeast to the Barton/Ellsworth county line, surface recycle, 17.2 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$4,508,111.00.

Comanche&nbsp;County --&nbsp;17 KA‑5758‑01 ‑ K‑1, from the Kansas/Oklahoma state line north to the U.S. 160/K‑1 junction and U.S. 160, from the Clark/Comanche county line east to the Comanche/Barber county line, milling and overlay, 49.2 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$6,196,335.05.

Harper&nbsp;County --&nbsp;39 KA‑5821‑01 ‑ U.S. 160, from the Barber/Harper county line east to the U.S. 160/K‑14 junction and K‑2, from the north Anthony city limits north to the south U.S. 160/K‑2 junction milling and overlay, 26.1 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$4,235,318.49.

Kiowa&nbsp;County --&nbsp;54‑49 KA‑5801‑01 – U.S. 54, from the Ford/Kiowa county line east to 1 mile east of the east Greensburg city limits, milling and overlay, 16.7 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$2,681,091.85.

Pratt&nbsp;County --&nbsp;76 C‑4967‑01 ‑ Major collector roads in the northwest quarter of the county, signing, 53.0 miles,&nbsp;Mission&nbsp;Construction&nbsp;Co. Inc., St&nbsp;Paul,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$59,648.88.

Reno&nbsp;County --&nbsp;11‑78 KA‑3882‑01 ‑ K‑11, bridge #026 over Goose Creek located 6.32 miles north of the Kingman County line, bridge replacement,&nbsp;King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston,&nbsp;Kan., $1,460,469.92.

Reno&nbsp;County --&nbsp;61‑78 KA‑5889‑01 ‑ K‑61, at 8 locations beginning approximately 475 feet south of bridge #148 northeast to the west U.S. 50/K‑61 junction, guard fence, 9.2 miles,&nbsp;J &amp; J Contractors&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;Iola, Kan., $766,357.41.

Rice&nbsp;County --&nbsp;80 C‑4982‑01 ‑ Various routes in the western third of the county, pavement marking, 46.0 miles,&nbsp;Traffic&nbsp;Control&nbsp;Services&nbsp;Inc., Wichita,&nbsp;Kan., $205,252.81.

Rice&nbsp;County --&nbsp;04‑80 KA‑5808‑01 ‑ K‑4, from the Barton/Rice county line east to the Ellsworth/Rice county line, milling and overlay, 25.4 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$2,935,340.24.

Sedgwick&nbsp;County --&nbsp;235‑87 KA‑5599‑01 ‑ I‑235, located over southbound I‑235 at the ramp to I‑135, signing,&nbsp;Fulsom Brothers,&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;Cedar Vale, Kan.,&nbsp;$125,179.00.

The following project has been approved from the Aug. 19, 2020, letting.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;69‑106 KA‑4744‑01 – U.S. 69, U.S. 56 and U.S. 169; in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, signing, 9.7 miles,&nbsp;Fulsom Brothers, Inc., Cedar Vale, Kan., $298,035.46.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for 26 state highway construction and maintenance projects in Kansas. The letting took place Sept. 16, 2020, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastPottawatomie County --&nbsp;75 C‑4938‑01 – Dyer Road (RS 536) beginning approximately 400 feet north of Rocky Lane, at the entrance to the Little Grill restaurant north through the horizontal curve, grading and surfacing, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kan., $520,963.63.Riley&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑81 KA‑5919‑01 ‑ I‑70, from the Geary/Riley county line east to the Wabaunsee/Riley county line, pavement marking, 6.0 miles,&nbsp;Innovative&nbsp;Marking Systems Inc., Bluffdale,&nbsp;Utah, $588,472.65.Wabaunsee&nbsp;County --&nbsp;99‑99 KA‑4744‑03 – Including the following routes K‑99, K‑138, K‑185, signing, 11.4 miles,&nbsp;Collins &amp; Hermann&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;Saint Louis,&nbsp;Mo., $52,500.80.Wabaunsee&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑99 KA‑5920‑01 ‑ I‑70, from the Wabaunsee/Riley county line east to the end of the concrete east of the K‑30/I‑70/Windy Hill Road interchange, pavement marking, 19.4 miles,&nbsp;Innovative&nbsp;Marking Systems Inc., Bluffdale,&nbsp;Utah,&nbsp;$1,880,201.55.Wyandotte&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑5628‑01 – I-70, overhead sign truss serial # 105S0069 over the ramp from westbound I‑70 located at the split to northbound I‑635 and southbound I‑635, signing,&nbsp;Fulsom&nbsp;Brothers, Inc., Cedar&nbsp;Vale,&nbsp;Kan., $143,143.00.Wyandotte&nbsp;County --&nbsp;05‑105 N‑0677‑01 ‑ K‑5 (Leavenworth Road), from 78th Street to 63rd Street, grading and surfacing, 1.8 miles,&nbsp;Amino Brothers Company Inc., Kansas City,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$8,483,967.54.Statewide --&nbsp;70‑106 KA‑4744‑04 ‑ I‑70, from the Geary/Riley county line east to the KTA Toll Plaza in Topeka, signing, 50.8 miles,&nbsp;Collins &amp; Hermann&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;St.&nbsp;Louis, Mo.,&nbsp;$3,370,000.00.Statewide --&nbsp;106 TE‑0402‑06 ‑ Flint Hills Trail: from 17th Street east to South Lewelling Road in Osage City, special, 4.1 miles,&nbsp;Killough Construction&nbsp;Inc., Ottawa,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$1,113,919.93.District Two — North CentralStatewide ‑&nbsp;181‑106 KA‑5916‑01 ‑ K‑181, from the K‑232/K‑181 junction east to the Russell/Lincoln county line, from the Russell/Lincoln county line east to the Lincoln/Mitchell county line and from the Lincoln/Mitchell county line north to the Mitchell/Osborne county line, milling and overlay, 36.5 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas&nbsp;Inc&nbsp;Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kan., $6,067,762.63.District Three — NorthwestGove&nbsp;County --&nbsp;70‑32 KA‑5839‑01 ‑ I‑70, beginning 1 mile west of the east K‑23 Spur east for approximately 9 miles, rumble strip installation, 9.0 miles,&nbsp;Surface Preparation Technologies&nbsp;LLC,&nbsp;New Kingstown,&nbsp;Penn.,&nbsp;$155,727.20.Norton&nbsp;County --&nbsp;36‑69 KA‑5810‑01 – U.S. 36, from the east U.S. 36/K‑383 junction east to the Norton/Phillips county line, surface recycle, 8.4 miles,&nbsp;Dustrol Inc.,&nbsp;Towanda,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$911,717.63.Russell&nbsp;County --&nbsp;18‑84 KA‑3931‑01 ‑ K‑18, bridge #051 over Coon Creek located 0.36&nbsp;mile east of the east U.S. 281 junction, bridge replacement,&nbsp;L &amp;&nbsp;M Contractors Inc., Great&nbsp;Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$1,439,849.23.Sherman&nbsp;County --&nbsp;27‑91 KA‑5809‑01 ‑ K‑27, from the K‑27/U.S. 24B junction north to the Cheyenne/Sherman county line, sealing, 16.6 miles,&nbsp;Heft&nbsp;and Sons LLC,&nbsp;Greensburg,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$628,267.50.Smith&nbsp;County --&nbsp;92 KA‑5918‑01 ‑ K‑8, from the U.S. 36/K‑8 junction north to the Nebraska state line; U.S. 36, from the Phillips/Smith county line east to the Jewel/Smith county line; K‑182, from the U.S. 36/K‑182 junction north to Bellaire (entire route); K‑191, from the geographic center of the contiguous United States east to the U.S. 281/K‑191 junction (entire route); K‑204, from the U.S. 36/K‑204 junction east to the west city limits of Smith Center (entire route); K‑248, from the old U.S. 36/K‑248 junction north to the U.S. 36/K‑248 junction (entire route); U.S. 281, from the east U.S. 36/U.S. 281 junction north to the Nebraska state line, milling and overlay, 66.2 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$10,439,835.86.District Four — SoutheastWoodson&nbsp;County --&nbsp;104 C‑4947‑01 – Bridge over South Big Creek located 10.7 miles north and 9 miles west of the U.S. 54/ U.S. 75 junction, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;B &amp; B Bridge Company&nbsp;LLC, St. Paul, Kan., $525,462.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;69‑106 KA‑1554‑02 – U.S. 69, from 3 miles north of the north Arma city limits to 950 feet north of the Crawford/Bourbon county line, grade, bridge and surfacing, 5.7 miles,&nbsp;Bob Bergkamp&nbsp;Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kan., $21,624,010.43.District Five — South CentralBarton&nbsp;County --&nbsp;156‑5 KA‑5811‑01 ‑ K‑156, from the east K‑156/U.S. 56 junction northeast to the Barton/Ellsworth county line, surface recycle, 17.2 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$4,508,111.00.Comanche&nbsp;County --&nbsp;17 KA‑5758‑01 ‑ K‑1, from the Kansas/Oklahoma state line north to the U.S. 160/K‑1 junction and U.S. 160, from the Clark/Comanche county line east to the Comanche/Barber county line, milling and overlay, 49.2 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$6,196,335.05.Harper&nbsp;County --&nbsp;39 KA‑5821‑01 ‑ U.S. 160, from the Barber/Harper county line east to the U.S. 160/K‑14 junction and K‑2, from the north Anthony city limits north to the south U.S. 160/K‑2 junction milling and overlay, 26.1 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$4,235,318.49.Kiowa&nbsp;County --&nbsp;54‑49 KA‑5801‑01 – U.S. 54, from the Ford/Kiowa county line east to 1 mile east of the east Greensburg city limits, milling and overlay, 16.7 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$2,681,091.85.Pratt&nbsp;County --&nbsp;76 C‑4967‑01 ‑ Major collector roads in the northwest quarter of the county, signing, 53.0 miles,&nbsp;Mission&nbsp;Construction&nbsp;Co. Inc., St&nbsp;Paul,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$59,648.88.Reno&nbsp;County --&nbsp;11‑78 KA‑3882‑01 ‑ K‑11, bridge #026 over Goose Creek located 6.32 miles north of the Kingman County line, bridge replacement,&nbsp;King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston,&nbsp;Kan., $1,460,469.92.Reno&nbsp;County --&nbsp;61‑78 KA‑5889‑01 ‑ K‑61, at 8 locations beginning approximately 475 feet south of bridge #148 northeast to the west U.S. 50/K‑61 junction, guard fence, 9.2 miles,&nbsp;J &amp; J Contractors&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;Iola, Kan., $766,357.41.Rice&nbsp;County --&nbsp;80 C‑4982‑01 ‑ Various routes in the western third of the county, pavement marking, 46.0 miles,&nbsp;Traffic&nbsp;Control&nbsp;Services&nbsp;Inc., Wichita,&nbsp;Kan., $205,252.81.Rice&nbsp;County --&nbsp;04‑80 KA‑5808‑01 ‑ K‑4, from the Barton/Rice county line east to the Ellsworth/Rice county line, milling and overlay, 25.4 miles,&nbsp;Venture Corporation,&nbsp;Great Bend,&nbsp;Kan.,&nbsp;$2,935,340.24.Sedgwick&nbsp;County --&nbsp;235‑87 KA‑5599‑01 ‑ I‑235, located over southbound I‑235 at the ramp to I‑135, signing,&nbsp;Fulsom Brothers,&nbsp;Inc.,&nbsp;Cedar Vale, Kan.,&nbsp;$125,179.00.The following project has been approved from the Aug. 19, 2020, letting.Statewide ‑&nbsp;69‑106 KA‑4744‑01 – U.S. 69, U.S. 56 and U.S. 169; in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, signing, 9.7 miles,&nbsp;Fulsom Brothers, Inc., Cedar Vale, Kan., $298,035.46.

KDOT announces 26 approved September bids

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

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

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

Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

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

NWS: Salina sets high temperature record on Wednesday

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 298 total cases of COVID-19 in the county. 

Of that total, 268 cases have now met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have passed away, and two of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department reported.

Additionally, the health department is working to confirm medical records on four other deaths before listing them in the county's COVID-19 numbers.

Following is updated COVID-19 case data provided by the health department.

• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 24

• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 4

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 298 total cases of COVID-19 in the county. Of that total, 268 cases have now met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have passed away, and two of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department reported.Additionally, the health department is working to confirm medical records on four other deaths before listing them in the county's COVID-19 numbers.Following is updated COVID-19 case data provided by the health department.• Asymptomatic: 26• Cases with unknown exposure: 116• Cases 60 years old and above: 74• Cases 50-59 years old: 31• Cases 40-49 years old: 41• Cases 30-39 years old: 38• Cases 18-29 years old: 81• Cases under 18 years old: 33• Female cases: 155• Male cases: 143• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 24• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 4• Deaths: 1 (4 pending records)

McPherson County reports COVID-19 total up to 298

A Salina Presbyterian Manor essential health care worker tested positive this week for COVID-19 during the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing for the virus. The employee is in isolation and quarantined at home.

“Our top priority continues to be the safety of our residents and staff members,” said Jeanne Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s vice president for health and wellness and infection prevention. “Surveillance testing is just another tool in our toolbox to fight this virus.”

The employee last worked Sept. 27 and passed the pre-shift screening. The employee has not been on the schedule and had a point-of-care test on Sept. 29 that was negative. The individual then participated in the surveillance testing on Oct. 5, and the positive result was received Wednesday morning.

All employees who had direct contact with the positive employee during their last shift worked tested negative for the virus in Monday’s surveillance testing. No residents are showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.

Salina Presbyterian Manor reported that it notified the Saline County Health Department immediately after becoming aware of the positive test and will follow their direction for any additional steps needed. Families have been called to alert them to the positive case.

The employee will not be allowed to work until he/she meets Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) guidelines for when an employee may return to work. Under the current guidelines, symptomatic employees may return to work when at least 72 hours have passed since resolution of the employee’s fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and the employee’s symptoms have improved and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic positive employees will quarantine for 14 days. Upon the employee’s return to work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and restrictions.

Salina Presbyterian Manor encourage all staff members to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. The organization has been screening employees as they enter the community building for a shift and before employees have any direct contact with residents. They educate all staff to stay at home if they are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well.

A Salina Presbyterian Manor essential health care worker tested positive this week for COVID-19 during the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing for the virus. The employee is in isolation and quarantined at home.“Our top priority continues to be the safety of our residents and staff members,” said Jeanne Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s vice president for health and wellness and infection prevention. “Surveillance testing is just another tool in our toolbox to fight this virus.”The employee last worked Sept. 27 and passed the pre-shift screening. The employee has not been on the schedule and had a point-of-care test on Sept. 29 that was negative. The individual then participated in the surveillance testing on Oct. 5, and the positive result was received Wednesday morning.All employees who had direct contact with the positive employee during their last shift worked tested negative for the virus in Monday’s surveillance testing. No residents are showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.Salina Presbyterian Manor reported that it notified the Saline County Health Department immediately after becoming aware of the positive test and will follow their direction for any additional steps needed. Families have been called to alert them to the positive case.The employee will not be allowed to work until he/she meets Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) guidelines for when an employee may return to work. Under the current guidelines, symptomatic employees may return to work when at least 72 hours have passed since resolution of the employee’s fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and the employee’s symptoms have improved and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic positive employees will quarantine for 14 days. Upon the employee’s return to work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and restrictions.Salina Presbyterian Manor encourage all staff members to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. The organization has been screening employees as they enter the community building for a shift and before employees have any direct contact with residents. They educate all staff to stay at home if they are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well.

Employee at Salina Presbyterian Manor positive for COVID-19

BENNINGTON -- Ottawa County Fire District No. 4, headquartered in Bennington, celebrated the actions of a local student who was able to prevent a house fire with his quick actions and doing the right thing. 

 On the morning of Sept. 29, Clayton Shamburg, a 10 year-old fifth grader at Bennington Grade School, was riding his bike to school.  As he passed by a home on Nelson Street, he heard smoke detectors sounding inside.  

After finding that no one was home, he quickly notified his parents and through quick actions, they were able to contact the homeowner in time to prevent any damage. 

 It was later found that a dog inside had lit a stove burner directly underneath a pan of brownies.

According to Chief Mark Whitesell, “It’s our belief that, had the burner been left on, a kitchen fire would have eventually been ignited.  Clayton prevented a house fire by his quick actions that day.” 

 On Monday, Whitesell awarded Clayton a Certificate of Appreciation for his willingness to act.

District No. 4, along with other departments around the country, has teamed up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years —to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign works to educate everyone about  simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

“We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice-president of outreach and advocacy. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.” 

“The most important step you should take before making a meal is to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” said Whitesell. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”

Ottawa County Fire District No. 4 offers safety tips to keep you from having a cooking fire:

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.

• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.

• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.

• Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.

• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602111119373.jpeg" alt="Ottawa County Fire District No. 4 Chief Mark Whitesell presented Clayton Shamburg with a certificate recognizing his efforts to help prevent a house fire on Sept. 29. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Ottawa County Fire District No. 4" />
 <figcaption>Ottawa County Fire District No. 4 Chief Mark Whitesell presented Clayton Shamburg with a certificate recognizing his efforts to help prevent a house fire on Sept. 29. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Ottawa County Fire District No. 4</figcaption>
 </figure>BENNINGTON -- Ottawa County Fire District No. 4, headquartered in Bennington, celebrated the actions of a local student who was able to prevent a house fire with his quick actions and doing the right thing. On the morning of Sept. 29, Clayton Shamburg, a 10 year-old fifth grader at Bennington Grade School, was riding his bike to school. As he passed by a home on Nelson Street, he heard smoke detectors sounding inside. After finding that no one was home, he quickly notified his parents and through quick actions, they were able to contact the homeowner in time to prevent any damage. It was later found that a dog inside had lit a stove burner directly underneath a pan of brownies.According to Chief Mark Whitesell, “It’s our belief that, had the burner been left on, a kitchen fire would have eventually been ignited. Clayton prevented a house fire by his quick actions that day.” On Monday, Whitesell awarded Clayton a Certificate of Appreciation for his willingness to act.District No. 4, along with other departments around the country, has teamed up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years —to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.“We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice-president of outreach and advocacy. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.” “The most important step you should take before making a meal is to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” said Whitesell. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”Ottawa County Fire District No. 4 offers safety tips to keep you from having a cooking fire:• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.• Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Bennington boy recognized for efforts to prevent house fire

Following it the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.

Yesterday afternoon we were notified of an additional death of a Saline County resident related to COVID-19. We have 13 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Monday, October 5. The total for the county is now 859, with 103 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 744 that have recovered, and a total of 12 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 8 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●Mobile Device Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>

●Desktop Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 63,952 cases and 723 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

●The Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) announced a program to distribute Visible Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) available to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, their family members and/or personal caretakers. Learn more about how to request Visible PPE at <a href="http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/RS/Pages/PPEprogram.aspx">http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/RS/Pages/PPEprogram.aspx</a>.

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

●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill

●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution

●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

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/2020/10/1602110113778.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following it the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.Yesterday afternoon we were notified of an additional death of a Saline County resident related to COVID-19. We have 13 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Monday, October 5. The total for the county is now 859, with 103 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 744 that have recovered, and a total of 12 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 8 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>●Desktop Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 63,952 cases and 723 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Announcements:●The Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) announced a program to distribute Visible Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) available to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, their family members and/or personal caretakers. Learn more about how to request Visible PPE at <a href="http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/RS/Pages/PPEprogram.aspx">http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/RS/Pages/PPEprogram.aspx</a>.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●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: 1 additional death, 13 new COVID-19 cases

With a $5 million facility set to open in January, the Kansas Wesleyan Department of Nursing is looking to continue its positive momentum by adding new, gifted students to its ranks. 

To that end, a Nursing Scholarship Day will be held on the KWU campus Oct. 15.

All students are asked to pre-register online for the event. Everyone under consideration must possess a 2.8 GPA or better, whether they be a rising high school senior or a potential transfer student. Each student will be interviewed and evaluated for leadership and academic achievement. Multiple awards of varying sizes will be available.

“We are excited to launch our Nursing Scholarship Day,” said Janeane Houchin, Director of Nursing Education. “Our program has an incredible amount of momentum right now, and we look forward to introducing potential new students to the great things taking place at Kansas Wesleyan!”

Current plans call for the Nursing Scholarship Day to take place each October.

For more information or to pre-register, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/admissions" target="_blank">www.kwu.edu/admissions</a>.

With a $5 million facility set to open in January, the Kansas Wesleyan Department of Nursing is looking to continue its positive momentum by adding new, gifted students to its ranks. To that end, a Nursing Scholarship Day will be held on the KWU campus Oct. 15.All students are asked to pre-register online for the event. Everyone under consideration must possess a 2.8 GPA or better, whether they be a rising high school senior or a potential transfer student. Each student will be interviewed and evaluated for leadership and academic achievement. Multiple awards of varying sizes will be available.“We are excited to launch our Nursing Scholarship Day,” said Janeane Houchin, Director of Nursing Education. “Our program has an incredible amount of momentum right now, and we look forward to introducing potential new students to the great things taking place at Kansas Wesleyan!”Current plans call for the Nursing Scholarship Day to take place each October.For more information or to pre-register, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/admissions" target="_blank">www.kwu.edu/admissions</a>.

KWU announces Nursing Scholarship Day

The Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy was honored with a Certificate of Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). 

On Monday, KHP Superintendent Herman T. Jones received the certificate with Special Operations Commander Rob Keener, and CALEA Accreditation Manager Christi Asbe in attendance.

“The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to seek excellence in the delivery of public safety services by earning their initial CALEA Training Academy Accreditation award. The importance of having quality law enforcement training based on contemporary standards is essential to effectively serve the public,” said CALEA Regional Program Manager Timothy Baysinger. “On behalf of CALEA Commissioners and staff, I congratulate Colonel Herman Jones and the men and women of the Kansas Highway Patrol on this achievement.”

The Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy, located in Salina, is the first academy in the state of Kansas to achieve accreditation. Additionally, the academy is one of only three highway patrol academies across the United States that are currently accredited by CALEA.

The training academy began the CALEA accreditation process in January 2019. Accreditation assists in enhancing the KHP’s public safety services by implementing the best business practices for law enforcement. This increases accountability within the agency and to the public we serve. Throughout the process, the agency had to address topics such as evidence procedures and training, among others; hosted tours of facilities and equipment; and hosted a public comment session. In March, the training academy underwent an onsite assessment.

“The Kansas Highway Patrol is grateful to obtain this recognition from CALEA. Our agency’s personnel strive to provide quality training methodology that is contemporaneous and considered best practices in the law enforcement profession,” Jones said. “Although we have reached this achievement, our endeavor is to continuously serve with integrity and improvement.”&nbsp;

CALEA was created in 1979 as a credentialing authority. The purpose of CALEA is to improve delivery of public safety by maintaining a body of standards, developed by public safety practitioners, covering up-to-date public safety initiatives; establishing and administering an accreditation process; and recognizing professional excellence. There are five steps to the CALEA process, which include: Enrollment; Self-Assessment; On-Site Assessment; Commission Review and Decision; and Maintaining Compliance and Reaccreditation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602085226297.jpeg" alt="KHP Superintendent Herman T. Jones, left, KHP Special Operations Commander Rob Keener, and CALEA Accreditation Manager Christi Asbe. Photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>KHP Superintendent Herman T. Jones, left, KHP Special Operations Commander Rob Keener, and CALEA Accreditation Manager Christi Asbe. Photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy was honored with a Certificate of Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). On Monday, KHP Superintendent Herman T. Jones received the certificate with Special Operations Commander Rob Keener, and CALEA Accreditation Manager Christi Asbe in attendance.“The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to seek excellence in the delivery of public safety services by earning their initial CALEA Training Academy Accreditation award. The importance of having quality law enforcement training based on contemporary standards is essential to effectively serve the public,” said CALEA Regional Program Manager Timothy Baysinger. “On behalf of CALEA Commissioners and staff, I congratulate Colonel Herman Jones and the men and women of the Kansas Highway Patrol on this achievement.”The Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy, located in Salina, is the first academy in the state of Kansas to achieve accreditation. Additionally, the academy is one of only three highway patrol academies across the United States that are currently accredited by CALEA.The training academy began the CALEA accreditation process in January 2019. Accreditation assists in enhancing the KHP’s public safety services by implementing the best business practices for law enforcement. This increases accountability within the agency and to the public we serve. Throughout the process, the agency had to address topics such as evidence procedures and training, among others; hosted tours of facilities and equipment; and hosted a public comment session. In March, the training academy underwent an onsite assessment.“The Kansas Highway Patrol is grateful to obtain this recognition from CALEA. Our agency’s personnel strive to provide quality training methodology that is contemporaneous and considered best practices in the law enforcement profession,” Jones said. “Although we have reached this achievement, our endeavor is to continuously serve with integrity and improvement.”&nbsp;CALEA was created in 1979 as a credentialing authority. The purpose of CALEA is to improve delivery of public safety by maintaining a body of standards, developed by public safety practitioners, covering up-to-date public safety initiatives; establishing and administering an accreditation process; and recognizing professional excellence. There are five steps to the CALEA process, which include: Enrollment; Self-Assessment; On-Site Assessment; Commission Review and Decision; and Maintaining Compliance and Reaccreditation.

KHP Training Academy receives CALEA accreditation

A 20-year-old Salina man with active warrants was arrested after attempting to flee from police Tuesday afternoon.

Officers observed William Donahue, Jr., in a silver Toyota Camry in front of a residence in the 100 block of South Third Street, at approximately 2 p.m. Tuesday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. Knowing that Donahue had multiple active warrants from Saline County District Court and Salina Municipal Court, the officers attempted to contact Donahue.

As they approached, Donahue drove the Camry through the driveway of 117 South Third Street, striking a 1967 Chevrolet pickup and a 2003 Buick LeSabre, causing approximately $2500 in damage to the two vehicles, Forrester noted. Donahue then climbed out of the driver side window and fled on foot through the backyard of the residence, he added.

According to Forrester, officers caught Donhue just east of Burger King, 418 East Iron Avenue, where he was taken into custody. 

Forrester reported that Donahue was arrested on the following active warrants and requested charges.

Aggravated escape from custody (Saline County)

Probation violation (Salina Municipal Court)

Failure to appear (Salina Municipal Court)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602083252628.jpeg" alt="William Donahue, Jr. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>William Donahue, Jr. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A 20-year-old Salina man with active warrants was arrested after attempting to flee from police Tuesday afternoon.Officers observed William Donahue, Jr., in a silver Toyota Camry in front of a residence in the 100 block of South Third Street, at approximately 2 p.m. Tuesday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. Knowing that Donahue had multiple active warrants from Saline County District Court and Salina Municipal Court, the officers attempted to contact Donahue.As they approached, Donahue drove the Camry through the driveway of 117 South Third Street, striking a 1967 Chevrolet pickup and a 2003 Buick LeSabre, causing approximately $2500 in damage to the two vehicles, Forrester noted. Donahue then climbed out of the driver side window and fled on foot through the backyard of the residence, he added.According to Forrester, officers caught Donhue just east of Burger King, 418 East Iron Avenue, where he was taken into custody. Forrester reported that Donahue was arrested on the following active warrants and requested charges.WarrantsProbation violation (Saline County)Failure to appear (Saline County)Aggravated escape from custody (Saline County)Probation violation (Salina Municipal Court)Failure to appear (Salina Municipal Court)Probation violation (Ottawa County)Requested chargesDriving while suspendedFelony interference with law enforcementFelony damage to property

Wanted Salina man arrested after attempt to flee from police

Sunny skies and warm weather will continue through the end of the week, with the potential of records being broken today. 

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, today will be the warmest with areas along the Interstate 70 corridor likely to approach record highs today. The temperatures will be little cooler but continued warm for Thursday and Friday, NWS reported.

There is the potential for some of the record highs to fall today, NWS noted. Chanute is the only location that will not have a chance to break a record, NWS added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602075577968.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sunny skies and warm weather will continue through the end of the week, with the potential of records being broken today. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, today will be the warmest with areas along the Interstate 70 corridor likely to approach record highs today. The temperatures will be little cooler but continued warm for Thursday and Friday, NWS reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602075609774.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There is the potential for some of the record highs to fall today, NWS noted. Chanute is the only location that will not have a chance to break a record, NWS added.

NWS: Sunny and warm continues with possibility of records today

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;

Cloud County Community College will be offering two Certified Medication Aide Update courses in October and November.

The October class will be on Oct. 16 and 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will be on the Concordia campus, 2221 Campus Drive in room SC105. Instructor will be Cindy Hyde, RN.

In November, the class will be offered on Nov. 13 and 14, also from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The class will be on the Concordia campus, also in SC105. Hyde will also be the instructor for this course.

For more information or to pre-register for the class, call JoDee Aldridge-Ball, CCCC Allied Health Coordinator, at 1.800.729.5101 or 785.243.1435, ext. 375, or by emailing <a href="mailto:jaldridge@cloud.edu">jaldridge@cloud.edu</a>.

Cloud County Community College will be offering two Certified Medication Aide Update courses in October and November.The October class will be on Oct. 16 and 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will be on the Concordia campus, 2221 Campus Drive in room SC105. Instructor will be Cindy Hyde, RN.In November, the class will be offered on Nov. 13 and 14, also from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The class will be on the Concordia campus, also in SC105. Hyde will also be the instructor for this course.For more information or to pre-register for the class, call JoDee Aldridge-Ball, CCCC Allied Health Coordinator, at 1.800.729.5101 or 785.243.1435, ext. 375, or by emailing <a href="mailto:jaldridge@cloud.edu">jaldridge@cloud.edu</a>.

CCCC to offer medication aide update courses

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

As my family is in the depths of the fall harvest season, the landscape all around us is beginning its annual preparation for winter. The colors surrounding our farm have begun their yearly transition and serve as a visual reminder that we have entered a new season: Fall. &nbsp; It’s as if overnight the leaves on the trees have yellowed, the morning air has become crisp, the sun sets earlier, the moon rises sooner and the fall crops around us continue drying down. &nbsp; The sights in town are reflections of this annual transition as well. The gorgeous mums now being prominently displayed at a greenhouse, the bright orange pumpkins lining the sidewalks at the grocery store, the newly posted signs advertising the latest seasonal coffee flavor and the school-aged children wearing sweatshirts or light jackets to school in the morning all serve as proof that fall has arrived. &nbsp; As we continue our fall harvest— while also sowing wheat — it’s easy to overlook these seasonal changes. While we hurry to move equipment to the next field, scurry out the door with meals to deliver to the crew or drive the kids out to the combine operator for goodnight kisses, it is possible to miss this annual transition while driving down the dirt roads on a mission. Nonetheless, the changes are occurring. &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that the Monarch butterflies briefly made a pit-stop in our area while migrating south. The Monarchs seem to have left, continuing their journey south.&nbsp; &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that my mother-in-law and I were planning our harvest meals menu, noting options needed to be cool and refreshing for the crew. We now discuss options that will warm them up. &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that the air conditioner was running to cool us down, whereas now we contemplate turning on the seat warmer every morning when climbing into a vehicle. &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that we’d go to sleep with open windows and the sounds of crickets and frogs. We now wake up with extra blankets wrapped around us. &nbsp; While I try to make mental notes of these changes daily — hoping I can bottle up this season — I know I’m also missing things I only realize once they no longer occur. I’ll tell myself that I have to be ready next year to see or smell or taste or hear an element of fall I missed. It happens every year. And every year I tell myself that I must be ready because it always seems like overnight it immediately becomes fall.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherAs my family is in the depths of the fall harvest season, the landscape all around us is beginning its annual preparation for winter. The colors surrounding our farm have begun their yearly transition and serve as a visual reminder that we have entered a new season: Fall. &nbsp; It’s as if overnight the leaves on the trees have yellowed, the morning air has become crisp, the sun sets earlier, the moon rises sooner and the fall crops around us continue drying down. &nbsp; The sights in town are reflections of this annual transition as well. The gorgeous mums now being prominently displayed at a greenhouse, the bright orange pumpkins lining the sidewalks at the grocery store, the newly posted signs advertising the latest seasonal coffee flavor and the school-aged children wearing sweatshirts or light jackets to school in the morning all serve as proof that fall has arrived. &nbsp; As we continue our fall harvest— while also sowing wheat — it’s easy to overlook these seasonal changes. While we hurry to move equipment to the next field, scurry out the door with meals to deliver to the crew or drive the kids out to the combine operator for goodnight kisses, it is possible to miss this annual transition while driving down the dirt roads on a mission. Nonetheless, the changes are occurring. &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that the Monarch butterflies briefly made a pit-stop in our area while migrating south. The Monarchs seem to have left, continuing their journey south.&nbsp; &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that my mother-in-law and I were planning our harvest meals menu, noting options needed to be cool and refreshing for the crew. We now discuss options that will warm them up. &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that the air conditioner was running to cool us down, whereas now we contemplate turning on the seat warmer every morning when climbing into a vehicle. &nbsp; It seems like it was only days ago that we’d go to sleep with open windows and the sounds of crickets and frogs. We now wake up with extra blankets wrapped around us. &nbsp; While I try to make mental notes of these changes daily — hoping I can bottle up this season — I know I’m also missing things I only realize once they no longer occur. I’ll tell myself that I have to be ready next year to see or smell or taste or hear an element of fall I missed. It happens every year. And every year I tell myself that I must be ready because it always seems like overnight it immediately becomes fall."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Immediately it becomes fall

Today is Wednesday, Oct. 7, the 281st day of 2020. There are 85 days left in the year. 

On Oct. 7, 1996, Fox News Channel made its debut. 

In 1910, a major wildfire devastated the northern Minnesota towns of Spooner and Baudette, charring at least 300,000 acres; some 40 people are believed to have died.

In 1916, in the most lopsided victory in college football history, Georgia Tech defeated Cumberland University 222-0 in Atlanta.

In 1954, Marian Anderson became the first Black singer hired by the Metropolitan Opera Company in New York. 

In 1960, Democratic presidential candidate John F. Kennedy and Republican opponent Richard Nixon held their second televised debate, this one in Washington, D.C. 

In 1982, the Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice musical "Cats" opened on Broadway. (The show closed Sept. 10, 2000, after a record 7,485 performances.)

In 1985, Palestinian gunmen hijacked the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro in the Mediterranean. (The hijackers shot and killed Leon Klinghoffer, a Jewish-American tourist in a wheelchair, and pushed him overboard, before surrendering on Oct. 9.) 

In 1991, University of Oklahoma law professor Anita Hill publicly accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of making sexually inappropriate comments when she worked for him; Thomas denied Hill's allegations. 

In 1992, trade representatives of the United States, Canada and Mexico initialed the North American Free Trade Agreement during a ceremony in San Antonio, Texas, in the presence of President George H.W. Bush, Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and Mexican President Carlos Salinas de Gortari. 

In 1998, Matthew Shepard, a gay college student, was beaten and left tied to a wooden fencepost outside of Laramie, Wyoming; he died five days later. (Russell Henderson and Aaron McKinney are serving life sentences for Shepard's murder.) 

In 2001, the war in Afghanistan started as the United States and Britain launched air attacks against military targets and Osama bin Laden's training camps in the wake of the September 11 attacks. 

In 2003, California voters recalled Gov. Gray Davis and elected Arnold Schwarzenegger their new governor. 

In 2004, President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney conceded that Saddam Hussein had no weapons of mass destruction as they tried to shift the Iraq war debate to a new issue, arguing that Saddam was abusing a U.N. oil-for-food program. 

Ten years ago: New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie canceled construction of a decades-in-the-making train tunnel between New Jersey and Manhattan, citing cost overruns that had ballooned the price tag from $5 billion to $10 billion or more. A toxic red sludge that had burst out of a Hungarian factory's reservoir reached the mighty Danube after wreaking havoc on smaller rivers and creeks.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama apologized to Doctors Without Borders for the American air attack that killed 42 people at its hospital in Afghanistan, and said the U.S. would examine military procedures to look for better ways to prevent such incidents. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that the federal government ran a budget deficit of $435 billion in the just-completed budget year, the smallest shortfall since 2007. Tomas Lindahl of Sweden, American Paul Modrich and Turkish-American scientist Aziz Sanca won the Nobel Prize in chemistry for showing how cells repaired damaged DNA — work that inspired the development of new cancer treatments.

One year ago: House Democrats issued subpoenas to Defense Secretary Mark Esper and acting White House budget director Russell Vought as part of the impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump. First lady Melania Trump called on the makers of e-cigarettes to stop marketing them to children, saying that they are addictive and dangerous. The New York Yankees completed a sweep over the Minnesota Twins in the American League Division Series and advanced to meet the Houston Astros for the league championship; it was the Twins' 16th straight loss in postseason games, tying the North American major sports record held by the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks.

Today's Birthdays: Retired South African Archbishop and Nobel Peace laureate Desmond Tutu is 89. Author Thomas Keneally is 85. Comedian Joy Behar is 78. Former National Security Council aide Lt. Col. Oliver North (ret.) is 77. Rock musician Kevin Godley (10cc) is 75. Actor Jill Larson is 73. Country singer Kieran Kane is 71. Singer John Mellencamp is 69. Rock musician Ricky Phillips is 69. Actor Mary Badham (Scout Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird") is 68. Rock musician Tico Torres (Bon Jovi) is 67. Actor Christopher Norris is 65. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma is 65. Gospel singer Michael W. Smith is 63. Olympic gold medal ice dancer Jayne Torvill is 63. Actor Dylan Baker is 62. Actor Judy Landers is 62. Recording executive and TV personality Simon Cowell is 61. Rock musician Charlie Marinkovich (formerly with Iron Butterfly) is 61. Actor Paula Newsome is 59. Country singer Dale Watson is 58. Pop singer Ann Curless (Expose) is 57. Rhythm-and-blues singer Toni Braxton is 53. Rock singer-musician Thom Yorke (Radiohead) is 52. Rock musician-dancer Leeroy Thornhill is 51. Actor Nicole Ari Parker is 50. Actor Allison Munn is 46. Rock singer-musician Damian Kulash is 45. Singer Taylor Hicks is 44. Actor Omar Miller is 42. Neo-soul singer Nathaniel Rateliff (Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats) is 42. Actor Shawn Ashmore is 41. Actor Jake McLaughlin is 38. Electronic musician Flying Lotus (AKA Steve Ellison) is 37. MLB player Evan Longoria is 35. Actor Holland Roden is 34. Actor Amber Stevens is 34. MLB outfielder Mookie Betts is 28. Actor Lulu Wilson is 15.

<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 Wednesday, Oct. 7, the 281st day of 2020. There are 85 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Oct. 7, 1996, Fox News Channel made its debut. On this date: In 1910, a major wildfire devastated the northern Minnesota towns of Spooner and Baudette, charring at least 300,000 acres; some 40 people are believed to have died.In 1916, in the most lopsided victory in college football history, Georgia Tech defeated Cumberland University 222-0 in Atlanta.In 1954, Marian Anderson became the first Black singer hired by the Metropolitan Opera Company in New York. In 1960, Democratic presidential candidate John F. Kennedy and Republican opponent Richard Nixon held their second televised debate, this one in Washington, D.C. In 1982, the Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice musical "Cats" opened on Broadway. (The show closed Sept. 10, 2000, after a record 7,485 performances.)In 1985, Palestinian gunmen hijacked the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro in the Mediterranean. (The hijackers shot and killed Leon Klinghoffer, a Jewish-American tourist in a wheelchair, and pushed him overboard, before surrendering on Oct. 9.) In 1991, University of Oklahoma law professor Anita Hill publicly accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of making sexually inappropriate comments when she worked for him; Thomas denied Hill's allegations. In 1992, trade representatives of the United States, Canada and Mexico initialed the North American Free Trade Agreement during a ceremony in San Antonio, Texas, in the presence of President George H.W. Bush, Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and Mexican President Carlos Salinas de Gortari. In 1998, Matthew Shepard, a gay college student, was beaten and left tied to a wooden fencepost outside of Laramie, Wyoming; he died five days later. (Russell Henderson and Aaron McKinney are serving life sentences for Shepard's murder.) In 2001, the war in Afghanistan started as the United States and Britain launched air attacks against military targets and Osama bin Laden's training camps in the wake of the September 11 attacks. In 2003, California voters recalled Gov. Gray Davis and elected Arnold Schwarzenegger their new governor. In 2004, President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney conceded that Saddam Hussein had no weapons of mass destruction as they tried to shift the Iraq war debate to a new issue, arguing that Saddam was abusing a U.N. oil-for-food program. Ten years ago: New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie canceled construction of a decades-in-the-making train tunnel between New Jersey and Manhattan, citing cost overruns that had ballooned the price tag from $5 billion to $10 billion or more. A toxic red sludge that had burst out of a Hungarian factory's reservoir reached the mighty Danube after wreaking havoc on smaller rivers and creeks.Five years ago: President Barack Obama apologized to Doctors Without Borders for the American air attack that killed 42 people at its hospital in Afghanistan, and said the U.S. would examine military procedures to look for better ways to prevent such incidents. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that the federal government ran a budget deficit of $435 billion in the just-completed budget year, the smallest shortfall since 2007. Tomas Lindahl of Sweden, American Paul Modrich and Turkish-American scientist Aziz Sanca won the Nobel Prize in chemistry for showing how cells repaired damaged DNA — work that inspired the development of new cancer treatments.One year ago: House Democrats issued subpoenas to Defense Secretary Mark Esper and acting White House budget director Russell Vought as part of the impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump. First lady Melania Trump called on the makers of e-cigarettes to stop marketing them to children, saying that they are addictive and dangerous. The New York Yankees completed a sweep over the Minnesota Twins in the American League Division Series and advanced to meet the Houston Astros for the league championship; it was the Twins' 16th straight loss in postseason games, tying the North American major sports record held by the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks. Today's Birthdays: Retired South African Archbishop and Nobel Peace laureate Desmond Tutu is 89. Author Thomas Keneally is 85. Comedian Joy Behar is 78. Former National Security Council aide Lt. Col. Oliver North (ret.) is 77. Rock musician Kevin Godley (10cc) is 75. Actor Jill Larson is 73. Country singer Kieran Kane is 71. Singer John Mellencamp is 69. Rock musician Ricky Phillips is 69. Actor Mary Badham (Scout Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird") is 68. Rock musician Tico Torres (Bon Jovi) is 67. Actor Christopher Norris is 65. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma is 65. Gospel singer Michael W. Smith is 63. Olympic gold medal ice dancer Jayne Torvill is 63. Actor Dylan Baker is 62. Actor Judy Landers is 62. Recording executive and TV personality Simon Cowell is 61. Rock musician Charlie Marinkovich (formerly with Iron Butterfly) is 61. Actor Paula Newsome is 59. Country singer Dale Watson is 58. Pop singer Ann Curless (Expose) is 57. Rhythm-and-blues singer Toni Braxton is 53. Rock singer-musician Thom Yorke (Radiohead) is 52. Rock musician-dancer Leeroy Thornhill is 51. Actor Nicole Ari Parker is 50. Actor Allison Munn is 46. Rock singer-musician Damian Kulash is 45. Singer Taylor Hicks is 44. Actor Omar Miller is 42. Neo-soul singer Nathaniel Rateliff (Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats) is 42. Actor Shawn Ashmore is 41. Actor Jake McLaughlin is 38. Electronic musician Flying Lotus (AKA Steve Ellison) is 37. MLB player Evan Longoria is 35. Actor Holland Roden is 34. Actor Amber Stevens is 34. MLB outfielder Mookie Betts is 28. Actor Lulu Wilson is 15.

Today in History -- Oct. 7

EMPORIA -- Emporia State University has received a grant from the Department of Education/ Rehabilitation Services Administration to train vocational rehabilitation professionals whose goals are to help individuals with disabilities prepare for and find meaningful work.

Through the grant, Emporia State's counselor education department will support students with tuition, training, and professional development. The grant begins immediately and will run through Sept. 30, 2025.

"The new grant award will allow ESU to graduate 22 qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors over the next five years," said Dr. Damara Goff Paris, associate professor and project director of the federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) grants at ESU.

Applicants who are accepted into the program will receive online instruction leading to a master's degree in clinical rehabilitation counseling.

The grant aims to address shortages in professional services for people needing rehabilitation services in the Midwest region. As one of the a few universities in the nation offering a fully online master's degree format in rehabilitation counseling, ESU's program aims to reach rural areas where it is difficult to access rehabilitation education and training.

The grant awarded is for $1,253,877, with $889,139 (71%) provided by federal funding through the U.S. Department of Education, and the remaining $364,688 (29%), provided by ESU.

Individuals interested in pursuing the master's degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling have until Nov. 13 to apply to be part of the Spring 2021 cohort through&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ls/click?upn=xJDCNNByO9BCtRQ9M-2B3qdBm9o3zGxMLV1hG-2F2f7-2F-2BwajUdc0kXmL0lg1w1Q6-2F7OTMssGhrP7Bt0SP6DhltMiR-2Fquri8cd18f9-2FT9V5vLpJM-3D3uXE_t63W6VOpNaQzFln0mRpIPwKWfC8tUIiPKNeIQzfdtycbwkjIh8pFgLtGGdDrUXdL7hsQxQ83U7ll2lZjYnw5VU8HexbSpdR5teFBMLx9EjRdiPZjchnk1-2BXMjFGjAuLoYzpTJmWIY9OqNRvw0Eg4wNAFWtCEf6zyvKKWGRmkgUbD5RJs-2BPd3q8xXDwuVcrR5y13UH38tpInByvXyqPkMvqtEIXR1utbocPoA41XCo-2FcTamT6LN2n0-2Bx8F625v6XpCrMFdGKxFob7RLb5X-2BtMPiYlplVEx7ueEQBVhdhy9-2BmEQAWlezt4HDid-2FiWIP387Xsbfsa3Fdjj57lqBsmZnnA-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.emporia.edu/counseloreducation</a>. Students from Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma have selection priority, however, interested parties from other states are highly encouraged to apply.

"This is the fifth grant our program has written, and the fourth grant that we have secured since 2014, bringing in over $4 million in funds to support students in our program over the past six years," Paris said. "The writing team who contributed to this grant competition were myself, Dr. Katrina Miller, and Dr. Danielle Nimako, with support from Sara Andres, our graduate administrative assistant."

EMPORIA -- Emporia State University has received a grant from the Department of Education/ Rehabilitation Services Administration to train vocational rehabilitation professionals whose goals are to help individuals with disabilities prepare for and find meaningful work.Through the grant, Emporia State's counselor education department will support students with tuition, training, and professional development. The grant begins immediately and will run through Sept. 30, 2025."The new grant award will allow ESU to graduate 22 qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors over the next five years," said Dr. Damara Goff Paris, associate professor and project director of the federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) grants at ESU.Applicants who are accepted into the program will receive online instruction leading to a master's degree in clinical rehabilitation counseling.The grant aims to address shortages in professional services for people needing rehabilitation services in the Midwest region. As one of the a few universities in the nation offering a fully online master's degree format in rehabilitation counseling, ESU's program aims to reach rural areas where it is difficult to access rehabilitation education and training.The grant awarded is for $1,253,877, with $889,139 (71%) provided by federal funding through the U.S. Department of Education, and the remaining $364,688 (29%), provided by ESU.Individuals interested in pursuing the master's degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling have until Nov. 13 to apply to be part of the Spring 2021 cohort through&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ls/click?upn=xJDCNNByO9BCtRQ9M-2B3qdBm9o3zGxMLV1hG-2F2f7-2F-2BwajUdc0kXmL0lg1w1Q6-2F7OTMssGhrP7Bt0SP6DhltMiR-2Fquri8cd18f9-2FT9V5vLpJM-3D3uXE_t63W6VOpNaQzFln0mRpIPwKWfC8tUIiPKNeIQzfdtycbwkjIh8pFgLtGGdDrUXdL7hsQxQ83U7ll2lZjYnw5VU8HexbSpdR5teFBMLx9EjRdiPZjchnk1-2BXMjFGjAuLoYzpTJmWIY9OqNRvw0Eg4wNAFWtCEf6zyvKKWGRmkgUbD5RJs-2BPd3q8xXDwuVcrR5y13UH38tpInByvXyqPkMvqtEIXR1utbocPoA41XCo-2FcTamT6LN2n0-2Bx8F625v6XpCrMFdGKxFob7RLb5X-2BtMPiYlplVEx7ueEQBVhdhy9-2BmEQAWlezt4HDid-2FiWIP387Xsbfsa3Fdjj57lqBsmZnnA-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.emporia.edu/counseloreducation</a>. Students from Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma have selection priority, however, interested parties from other states are highly encouraged to apply."This is the fifth grant our program has written, and the fourth grant that we have secured since 2014, bringing in over $4 million in funds to support students in our program over the past six years," Paris said. "The writing team who contributed to this grant competition were myself, Dr. Katrina Miller, and Dr. Danielle Nimako, with support from Sara Andres, our graduate administrative assistant."Emporia State University's Department of Counselor Education has a strong identity in the region, educating more than 560 rehabilitation counselors over a span of more than 50 years.The rehabilitation counseling master's degree program at ESU is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). In 1999, ESU was the first university in Kansas to move courses into the digital environment; by 2003 the rehabilitation counseling program had established an online presence, and the full rehabilitation counseling curriculum became available online in 2014.

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