MANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture has been awarded $331,846 through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. 

Funds for the program are presented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Marketing Service to increase opportunities for specialty crops. According to the USDA, specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.” KDA has selected other recipients to further utilize the funds.

The following is a list of Kansas projects that will be funded by the grant.

Prairieland Market, Increasing Specialty Crops in Prepared Foods and Retail Sales at Prairieland Market, $42,655 (Saline County) —&nbsp;Through increased marketing, this project will expand community awareness of prepared foods and retail opportunities to consume local specialty crops that Prairieland Market in Salina will source from more than 12 local growers.

Extension Education Foundation, Promoting Specialty Crops in South Central Kansas through Growing Growers Learning Network, $68,312 (Sedgwick County) —&nbsp;The foundation will build upon previous successes of the Growing Growers program and create a Growing Growers Learning Network to provide quality learning experiences for new, beginning, and socially disadvantaged producers related to recommended business practices, best food safety practices, and developing quality sustainable business.

Kansas State University, Building Capacity for Education and Research Opportunities at K-State’s Willow Farm, $55,692 (Riley County) —&nbsp;K-State will establish the Willow Lake Student Farm as the premier small- to mid-scale diversified farm research and training center in the Midwest by improving&nbsp; the farm's infrastructure for hosting and teaching for-credit courses, workshops, field days, short courses, internships, and volunteer opportunities.

Kansas Department of Agriculture, Specialty Crop Conference Education Support, $35,732 (statewide) —&nbsp;KDA will financially assist Kansas specialty crop growers to attend a recognized conference on specialty crop growing techniques and industry to increase their knowledge base and develop a plan of action to implement new ideas into their operations.

Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association, Growing and Sustaining the Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association, $61,744 (statewide) —&nbsp;KSCGA will work to grow the reach of the association by: improving communication for specialty crop growers across the state, evaluating the current online/alternative marketing channels for specialty crops, upgrading the KSCGA member directory, and building a statewide Specialty Crop Growers Support Bureau.

Children First: Children First: CEO Kansas, Fresh Food Matters, $55,995 (Sedgwick County) —&nbsp;Children First: CEO Kansas will educate area students about the importance of growing and eating specialty crops through experiential learning in four learning gardens throughout the area. Further programs will include teaching adults how to prepare specialty crops in a teaching kitchen, as well as distribution of information cards throughout the area.

For more information including past recipients, visit the KDA Specialty Crop Block Grant web page at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FSpecialtyCrop&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C1f0540e8f49c44b4b8f108d866f309c8%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637372541949550206&amp;sdata=I31weMHwh%2FecQ%2Bl3KxgxQBVlOIU5I08%2BBrI2J3RYpB0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/SpecialtyCrop</a>.

MANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture has been awarded $331,846 through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Funds for the program are presented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Marketing Service to increase opportunities for specialty crops. According to the USDA, specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.” KDA has selected other recipients to further utilize the funds.The following is a list of Kansas projects that will be funded by the grant.Prairieland Market, Increasing Specialty Crops in Prepared Foods and Retail Sales at Prairieland Market, $42,655 (Saline County) —&nbsp;Through increased marketing, this project will expand community awareness of prepared foods and retail opportunities to consume local specialty crops that Prairieland Market in Salina will source from more than 12 local growers.Extension Education Foundation, Promoting Specialty Crops in South Central Kansas through Growing Growers Learning Network, $68,312 (Sedgwick County) —&nbsp;The foundation will build upon previous successes of the Growing Growers program and create a Growing Growers Learning Network to provide quality learning experiences for new, beginning, and socially disadvantaged producers related to recommended business practices, best food safety practices, and developing quality sustainable business.Kansas State University, Building Capacity for Education and Research Opportunities at K-State’s Willow Farm, $55,692 (Riley County) —&nbsp;K-State will establish the Willow Lake Student Farm as the premier small- to mid-scale diversified farm research and training center in the Midwest by improving&nbsp; the farm's infrastructure for hosting and teaching for-credit courses, workshops, field days, short courses, internships, and volunteer opportunities.Kansas Department of Agriculture, Specialty Crop Conference Education Support, $35,732 (statewide) —&nbsp;KDA will financially assist Kansas specialty crop growers to attend a recognized conference on specialty crop growing techniques and industry to increase their knowledge base and develop a plan of action to implement new ideas into their operations.Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association, Growing and Sustaining the Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association, $61,744 (statewide) —&nbsp;KSCGA will work to grow the reach of the association by: improving communication for specialty crop growers across the state, evaluating the current online/alternative marketing channels for specialty crops, upgrading the KSCGA member directory, and building a statewide Specialty Crop Growers Support Bureau.Children First: Children First: CEO Kansas, Fresh Food Matters, $55,995 (Sedgwick County) —&nbsp;Children First: CEO Kansas will educate area students about the importance of growing and eating specialty crops through experiential learning in four learning gardens throughout the area. Further programs will include teaching adults how to prepare specialty crops in a teaching kitchen, as well as distribution of information cards throughout the area.For more information including past recipients, visit the KDA Specialty Crop Block Grant web page at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FSpecialtyCrop&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C1f0540e8f49c44b4b8f108d866f309c8%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637372541949550206&amp;sdata=I31weMHwh%2FecQ%2Bl3KxgxQBVlOIU5I08%2BBrI2J3RYpB0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/SpecialtyCrop</a>.

Prairieland Market a 2020 Specialty Crop Block Grants recipient

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/author/tdaniel/">TREY DANIEL</a>

The announcement of a grand jury’s decision to indict one of the three police officers involved in the shooting death of 26-year-old emergency medical technician&nbsp;Breonna Taylor&nbsp;sparked another wave of protest for justice and racial equality around the nation.

Following last week’s announcement from Kentucky’s Attorney General&nbsp;Daniel Cameron, we have seen protests erupt in Chicago, Milwaukee, Seattle, Louisville and Washington, D.C., among other places.

Despite being a year that has been brutally unpredictable, 2020 has shown some promise through raw emotions over issues this country has been carrying for years. With a presidential campaign and historic demonstrations unfolding at the same time, the country’s youngest voters and activists are being pushed to weigh their role in politics and the nation’s attitudes and policies, trying to navigate the relative power of protest and electoral politics in real time.

In the long-awaited decision in Louisville, a grand jury indicted a former police officer on a charge of&nbsp;wanton endangerment&nbsp;for his actions the night Taylor was killed — none of the three officers involved in Breonna Taylor’s death was charged with her murder. The decision drew swift criticism from around the country, including demonstrators who sought murder charges and arrests for all three officers. Feeling outraged by the grand jury’s decision, many took to the streets to exercise their First Amendment freedoms.

For one generation, protest in America has taken on a whole new light. Generation Z — those born in the mid-1990s to early 2010s — grew up with endless school shootings, viral videos of police brutality, a political climate defined by the first Black president and Donald Trump.

This demographic is rapidly aging into the voting population. Gen Zs have also had an unprecedented ability to see politicians, athletes, celebrities and musicians use their platforms to freely express their First Amendment rights. Recently, the Emmys, normally known for celebrating television’s best and brightest stars, held its 2020 award ceremony. This year’s ceremony was marked by its focus on politics and social justice issues. Nominees used the event to highlight the upcoming election, ongoing protests and the injustice of police brutality.

And, if that is not enough evidence of the changing response in America, who can forget the historic strike that spread throughout the athletic world following the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisc.? The national protest motivated Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden to praise players for their “moral leadership.”

While 2020 has been a year full of controversies and challenges, it has also demonstrated a greater response by our country to unfavorable decisions. Protest is the spirit of the people freely expressing; it is like their religion, their source of strength in time of trouble. However, protest is more than dealing with issues or producing results. It is often a joyful experience, a vibrant affirmation of life and its possibilities in an appropriate aesthetic form. Protests have proven artistic. Speak with those involved with the March on Washington and discover a community in motion, in rhythm, swinging and swaying to the movement of life. The meaning of protest is not contained in mere words or actions, but in the history that created it. For the uninitiated, the best approach in interpreting this protest movement is to feel one’s way into the cultural and historical situations of its people.

History is created out of protest, and for some it is a soulful experience. To understand it is to know the being of a people who had to feel their way along the course of America, enduring the stresses and strains of human servitude, but not without a voice. It is this certainty that informs the thought of the Black protest. It is this inevitability that has a people willing to risk their freedom.

I am encouraged more than ever — and know that now is the time that Americans must continue to organize around those issues they see as paramount. This energy can translate into a lasting movement for justice, one that extends beyond this election season. As they have before, as they were designed to do, the freedoms of the First Amendment have the power to change the American trajectory.

Trey Daniel is the education manager of the Georgia Rights, Responsibility, Respect Project, an education initiative of the Religious Freedom Center. His email address is:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tdaniel@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">tdaniel@freedomforum.org.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601690091265.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Freedom Forum" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Freedom Forum</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/author/tdaniel/">TREY DANIEL</a>The announcement of a grand jury’s decision to indict one of the three police officers involved in the shooting death of 26-year-old emergency medical technician&nbsp;Breonna Taylor&nbsp;sparked another wave of protest for justice and racial equality around the nation.Following last week’s announcement from Kentucky’s Attorney General&nbsp;Daniel Cameron, we have seen protests erupt in Chicago, Milwaukee, Seattle, Louisville and Washington, D.C., among other places.Despite being a year that has been brutally unpredictable, 2020 has shown some promise through raw emotions over issues this country has been carrying for years. With a presidential campaign and historic demonstrations unfolding at the same time, the country’s youngest voters and activists are being pushed to weigh their role in politics and the nation’s attitudes and policies, trying to navigate the relative power of protest and electoral politics in real time.In the long-awaited decision in Louisville, a grand jury indicted a former police officer on a charge of&nbsp;wanton endangerment&nbsp;for his actions the night Taylor was killed — none of the three officers involved in Breonna Taylor’s death was charged with her murder. The decision drew swift criticism from around the country, including demonstrators who sought murder charges and arrests for all three officers. Feeling outraged by the grand jury’s decision, many took to the streets to exercise their First Amendment freedoms.For one generation, protest in America has taken on a whole new light. Generation Z — those born in the mid-1990s to early 2010s — grew up with endless school shootings, viral videos of police brutality, a political climate defined by the first Black president and Donald Trump.This demographic is rapidly aging into the voting population. Gen Zs have also had an unprecedented ability to see politicians, athletes, celebrities and musicians use their platforms to freely express their First Amendment rights. Recently, the Emmys, normally known for celebrating television’s best and brightest stars, held its 2020 award ceremony. This year’s ceremony was marked by its focus on politics and social justice issues. Nominees used the event to highlight the upcoming election, ongoing protests and the injustice of police brutality.And, if that is not enough evidence of the changing response in America, who can forget the historic strike that spread throughout the athletic world following the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisc.? The national protest motivated Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden to praise players for their “moral leadership.”While 2020 has been a year full of controversies and challenges, it has also demonstrated a greater response by our country to unfavorable decisions. Protest is the spirit of the people freely expressing; it is like their religion, their source of strength in time of trouble. However, protest is more than dealing with issues or producing results. It is often a joyful experience, a vibrant affirmation of life and its possibilities in an appropriate aesthetic form. Protests have proven artistic. Speak with those involved with the March on Washington and discover a community in motion, in rhythm, swinging and swaying to the movement of life. The meaning of protest is not contained in mere words or actions, but in the history that created it. For the uninitiated, the best approach in interpreting this protest movement is to feel one’s way into the cultural and historical situations of its people.History is created out of protest, and for some it is a soulful experience. To understand it is to know the being of a people who had to feel their way along the course of America, enduring the stresses and strains of human servitude, but not without a voice. It is this certainty that informs the thought of the Black protest. It is this inevitability that has a people willing to risk their freedom.I am encouraged more than ever — and know that now is the time that Americans must continue to organize around those issues they see as paramount. This energy can translate into a lasting movement for justice, one that extends beyond this election season. As they have before, as they were designed to do, the freedoms of the First Amendment have the power to change the American trajectory.Trey Daniel is the education manager of the Georgia Rights, Responsibility, Respect Project, an education initiative of the Religious Freedom Center. His email address is:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tdaniel@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">tdaniel@freedomforum.org.</a>

FIRST 5: Breonna Taylor discussion at heart of national protests

There is a slight chance for showers in southeast Kansas on Saturday morning. Otherwise, temperatures will remain cool with highs in the upper 60s to lower 70s across central and eastern Kansas, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601691243420.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There is a slight chance for showers in southeast Kansas on Saturday morning. Otherwise, temperatures will remain cool with highs in the upper 60s to lower 70s across central and eastern Kansas, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

NWS: Temperatures in 60s and 70s across much of the state

OCCK Transportation is pleased to announce KANcycle bikes, the regional bike sharing program that serves north central Kansas is back up and running and bikes are available to be rented.&nbsp;&nbsp;KANcycle has been closed since the end of March because of COVID.

Riders can access the bikes through the use of the free Movatic app, which can be downloaded through the Apple or Google stores.&nbsp;&nbsp;Movatic manages all aspects of the bike-share program — from bikes and technology, to maintenance and fleet rebalancing. Each bike has a unique number which riders enter into the app to unlock the bike.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the rider returns the bike to a designated Movatic bike station, the rental ends and the bike is available for the next person to enjoy.

Riders join the program by signing up for annual memberships or pay-as-you-go.&nbsp;&nbsp;Annual memberships are $30 with trips under 1 hour being free, student annual memberships are $20 with trips under 1 hour being free, and pay-as-you-go is $1.50 every 30 minutes.

KANcycle, a program of OCCK Transportation, was started in June of 2019 with 80 bikes spread across 16 stations in eight counties with the following locations:

●North Ninth Street and West Hamilton Avenue, Salina. 

●South Seventh Street and West Walnut Street, Salina.

●Second&nbsp;and Rock Street, Minneapolis.

●Cloud County Community College, Concordia.

●Seventh&nbsp;and Washington, Concordia.

“We are so thankful for this new partnership with OCCK, Movatic and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas,” said Michelle Griffin, director of mobility management for north central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Bike sharing through KANcycle is a unique program that allows a new form of mobility for rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are committed to looking for programs that are innovative and beneficial to all residents.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601671043712.jpeg" alt="The KANcycle bicycles at the&nbsp;South Seventh Street and West Walnut Street location in downtown Salina. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The KANcycle bicycles at the&nbsp;South Seventh Street and West Walnut Street location in downtown Salina. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The bikes are back!OCCK Transportation is pleased to announce KANcycle bikes, the regional bike sharing program that serves north central Kansas is back up and running and bikes are available to be rented.&nbsp;&nbsp;KANcycle has been closed since the end of March because of COVID.Riders can access the bikes through the use of the free Movatic app, which can be downloaded through the Apple or Google stores.&nbsp;&nbsp;Movatic manages all aspects of the bike-share program — from bikes and technology, to maintenance and fleet rebalancing. Each bike has a unique number which riders enter into the app to unlock the bike.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the rider returns the bike to a designated Movatic bike station, the rental ends and the bike is available for the next person to enjoy.Riders join the program by signing up for annual memberships or pay-as-you-go.&nbsp;&nbsp;Annual memberships are $30 with trips under 1 hour being free, student annual memberships are $20 with trips under 1 hour being free, and pay-as-you-go is $1.50 every 30 minutes.KANcycle, a program of OCCK Transportation, was started in June of 2019 with 80 bikes spread across 16 stations in eight counties with the following locations:●North Ninth Street and West Hamilton Avenue, Salina. ●South Seventh Street and West Walnut Street, Salina.●Sunset Plaza, Salina.●Bill Burke Park, Salina.●Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina.●Second&nbsp;and Rock Street, Minneapolis.●Cloud County Community College, Concordia.●Seventh&nbsp;and Washington, Concordia.●19th&nbsp;&amp; M, Belleville.●28th&nbsp;&amp; N, Belleville.●City Building, Mankato. ●Eighth&nbsp;and Hersey, Beloit.●Thierolf Park, Beloit.●Courthouse Square, Lincoln.●Krizek Park, Ellsworth.●Douglas and Main, Ellsworth“We are so thankful for this new partnership with OCCK, Movatic and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas,” said Michelle Griffin, director of mobility management for north central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Bike sharing through KANcycle is a unique program that allows a new form of mobility for rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are committed to looking for programs that are innovative and beneficial to all residents.”

KANcycle bikes open for business

Today is Saturday, Oct. 3, the 277th day of 2020. There are 89 days left in the year. 

On Oct. 3, 1995, the jury in the O.J. Simpson murder trial in Los Angeles found the former football star not guilty of the 1994 slayings of his former wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and Ronald Goldman (however, Simpson was later found liable for damages in a civil trial). 

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November Thanksgiving Day. 

In 1941, Adolf Hitler declared in a speech in Berlin that Russia had been "broken" and would "never rise again." 

In 1961, "The Dick Van Dyke Show," also starring Mary Tyler Moore, made its debut on CBS. 

In 1967, folk singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie, the Dust Bowl Troubadour best known for "This Land Is Your Land," died in New York of complications from Huntington's disease; he was 55. 

In 1970, the National Oceanic &amp; Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) was established under the Department of Commerce.

In 1974, Frank Robinson was named major league baseball's first Black manager as he was placed in charge of the Cleveland Indians.

In 1981, Irish nationalists at the Maze Prison near Belfast, Northern Ireland, ended seven months of hunger strikes that had claimed 10 lives.

In 2001, the Senate approved an agreement normalizing trade between the United States and Vietnam. 

In 2003, a tiger attacked magician Roy Horn of duo "Siegfried &amp; Roy" during a performance in Las Vegas, leaving the superstar illusionist in critical condition on his 59th birthday. 

In 2008, O.J. Simpson was found guilty of robbing two sports-memorabilia dealers at gunpoint in a Las Vegas hotel room. (Simpson was later sentenced to nine to 33 years in prison; he was granted parole in July 2017 and released from prison in October of that year.) 

In 2017, President Donald Trump, visiting Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, congratulated the U.S. island territory for escaping the higher death toll of what he called "a real catastrophe like Katrina;" at a church used to distribute supplies, Trump handed out flashlights and tossed rolls of paper towels into the friendly crowd. 

In 2018, the Federal Emergency Management Agency conducted its first-ever national wireless emergency alert test, causing electronic devices across the country to sound, with a message that carried the subject, "Presidential Alert." (Some people got as many as four alerts on their phones, while others didn't get any.) 

Ten years ago: Ruling-party candidate Dilma Rousseff, trying to become Brazil's first female leader, fell short of getting a majority of votes in presidential elections. (Rousseff prevailed in a runoff against her centrist rival, Jose Serra.) Angel McCoughtry had 18 points as the U.S. won gold at the women's basketball world championship with an 89-69 victory over the host Czech Republic.

Five years ago: Vice President Joe Biden, addressing the Human Rights Campaign dinner in Washington, threw his unequivocal support behind letting transgender people serve openly in the U.S. military; the Obama administration would lift a longstanding ban in June 2016. (In 2019, the Supreme Court upheld a Trump administration policy under which people who have undergone gender transition are barred from enlisting.) A U.S. airstrike on a Doctors Without Borders hospital in the northern Afghanistan city of Kunduz killed 14 staff and 28 patients and caretakers. Max Scherzer pitched his second no-hitter of the season for Washington, leading the Nationals over the NL East champion New York Mets 2-0 for a doubleheader sweep.

One year ago: The former special U.S. envoy to Ukraine, Kurt Volker, testified before House members for nearly 10 hours about what he said was turmoil within the State Department over President Donald Trump's push to investigate Joe Biden and his family; he said he was never pressured by Trump or others to have Ukraine conduct the investigation. Attorneys announced that MGM Resorts International had agreed to pay up to $800 million to families of the 58 people who died and to the hundreds who were injured when a shooter rained gunfire on country music fans from a high-rise Las Vegas Strip hotel in 2017. Gordon Caplan, the former chairman of a global law firm, was sentenced in Boston to a month in prison for paying $75,000 to rig his daughter's college entrance exam.

Today's Birthdays: Composer Steve Reich is 84. Rock and roll star Chubby Checker is 79. Actor Alan Rachins is 78. Former Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., is 77. Singer Lindsey Buckingham is 71. Jazz musician Ronnie Laws is 70. Blues singer Keb' Mo' is 69. Former astronaut Kathryn Sullivan is 69. Baseball Hall of Famer Dave Winfield is 69. Baseball Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley is 66. Civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton is 66. Actor Hart Bochner is 64. Actor Peter Frechette is 64. World Golf Hall of Famer Fred Couples is 61. Actor-comedian Greg Proops is 61. Actor Jack Wagner is 61. Actor/musician Marcus Giamatti is 59. Rock musician Tommy Lee is 58. Actor Clive Owen is 56. Actor Janel Moloney is 51. Singer Gwen Stefani (No Doubt) is 51. Pop singer Kevin Richardson is 49. Rock singer G. Love is 48. Actor Keiko Agena is 47. Actor Neve Campbell is 47. Actor Lena Headey is 47. Singer India.Arie is 45. Rapper Talib Kweli is 45. Actor Alanna Ubach is 45. Actor Seann William Scott is 44. Actor Shannyn Sossamon is 42. Rock musician Josh Klinghoffer (Red Hot Chili Peppers) is 41. Actor Seth Gabel is 39. Rock musician Mark King (Hinder) is 38. Actor Erik Von Detten is 38. Singer-musician Cherrill Green (Edens Edge) is 37. Actor Tessa Thompson is 37. Country singer Drake White is 37. Actor Meagan Holder is 36. Actor Christopher Marquette is 36. Actor-singer Ashlee Simpson is 36. Rapper A$AP Rocky is 32. Actor Alicia Vikander is 32. Actor Noah Schnapp (TV: "Stranger Things") is 16.

<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 Saturday, Oct. 3, the 277th day of 2020. There are 89 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Oct. 3, 1995, the jury in the O.J. Simpson murder trial in Los Angeles found the former football star not guilty of the 1994 slayings of his former wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and Ronald Goldman (however, Simpson was later found liable for damages in a civil trial). On this date: In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November Thanksgiving Day. In 1941, Adolf Hitler declared in a speech in Berlin that Russia had been "broken" and would "never rise again." In 1961, "The Dick Van Dyke Show," also starring Mary Tyler Moore, made its debut on CBS. In 1967, folk singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie, the Dust Bowl Troubadour best known for "This Land Is Your Land," died in New York of complications from Huntington's disease; he was 55. In 1970, the National Oceanic &amp; Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) was established under the Department of Commerce.In 1974, Frank Robinson was named major league baseball's first Black manager as he was placed in charge of the Cleveland Indians.In 1981, Irish nationalists at the Maze Prison near Belfast, Northern Ireland, ended seven months of hunger strikes that had claimed 10 lives.In 2001, the Senate approved an agreement normalizing trade between the United States and Vietnam. In 2003, a tiger attacked magician Roy Horn of duo "Siegfried &amp; Roy" during a performance in Las Vegas, leaving the superstar illusionist in critical condition on his 59th birthday. In 2008, O.J. Simpson was found guilty of robbing two sports-memorabilia dealers at gunpoint in a Las Vegas hotel room. (Simpson was later sentenced to nine to 33 years in prison; he was granted parole in July 2017 and released from prison in October of that year.) In 2017, President Donald Trump, visiting Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, congratulated the U.S. island territory for escaping the higher death toll of what he called "a real catastrophe like Katrina;" at a church used to distribute supplies, Trump handed out flashlights and tossed rolls of paper towels into the friendly crowd. In 2018, the Federal Emergency Management Agency conducted its first-ever national wireless emergency alert test, causing electronic devices across the country to sound, with a message that carried the subject, "Presidential Alert." (Some people got as many as four alerts on their phones, while others didn't get any.) Ten years ago: Ruling-party candidate Dilma Rousseff, trying to become Brazil's first female leader, fell short of getting a majority of votes in presidential elections. (Rousseff prevailed in a runoff against her centrist rival, Jose Serra.) Angel McCoughtry had 18 points as the U.S. won gold at the women's basketball world championship with an 89-69 victory over the host Czech Republic.Five years ago: Vice President Joe Biden, addressing the Human Rights Campaign dinner in Washington, threw his unequivocal support behind letting transgender people serve openly in the U.S. military; the Obama administration would lift a longstanding ban in June 2016. (In 2019, the Supreme Court upheld a Trump administration policy under which people who have undergone gender transition are barred from enlisting.) A U.S. airstrike on a Doctors Without Borders hospital in the northern Afghanistan city of Kunduz killed 14 staff and 28 patients and caretakers. Max Scherzer pitched his second no-hitter of the season for Washington, leading the Nationals over the NL East champion New York Mets 2-0 for a doubleheader sweep.One year ago: The former special U.S. envoy to Ukraine, Kurt Volker, testified before House members for nearly 10 hours about what he said was turmoil within the State Department over President Donald Trump's push to investigate Joe Biden and his family; he said he was never pressured by Trump or others to have Ukraine conduct the investigation. Attorneys announced that MGM Resorts International had agreed to pay up to $800 million to families of the 58 people who died and to the hundreds who were injured when a shooter rained gunfire on country music fans from a high-rise Las Vegas Strip hotel in 2017. Gordon Caplan, the former chairman of a global law firm, was sentenced in Boston to a month in prison for paying $75,000 to rig his daughter's college entrance exam.Today's Birthdays: Composer Steve Reich is 84. Rock and roll star Chubby Checker is 79. Actor Alan Rachins is 78. Former Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., is 77. Singer Lindsey Buckingham is 71. Jazz musician Ronnie Laws is 70. Blues singer Keb' Mo' is 69. Former astronaut Kathryn Sullivan is 69. Baseball Hall of Famer Dave Winfield is 69. Baseball Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley is 66. Civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton is 66. Actor Hart Bochner is 64. Actor Peter Frechette is 64. World Golf Hall of Famer Fred Couples is 61. Actor-comedian Greg Proops is 61. Actor Jack Wagner is 61. Actor/musician Marcus Giamatti is 59. Rock musician Tommy Lee is 58. Actor Clive Owen is 56. Actor Janel Moloney is 51. Singer Gwen Stefani (No Doubt) is 51. Pop singer Kevin Richardson is 49. Rock singer G. Love is 48. Actor Keiko Agena is 47. Actor Neve Campbell is 47. Actor Lena Headey is 47. Singer India.Arie is 45. Rapper Talib Kweli is 45. Actor Alanna Ubach is 45. Actor Seann William Scott is 44. Actor Shannyn Sossamon is 42. Rock musician Josh Klinghoffer (Red Hot Chili Peppers) is 41. Actor Seth Gabel is 39. Rock musician Mark King (Hinder) is 38. Actor Erik Von Detten is 38. Singer-musician Cherrill Green (Edens Edge) is 37. Actor Tessa Thompson is 37. Country singer Drake White is 37. Actor Meagan Holder is 36. Actor Christopher Marquette is 36. Actor-singer Ashlee Simpson is 36. Rapper A$AP Rocky is 32. Actor Alicia Vikander is 32. Actor Noah Schnapp (TV: "Stranger Things") is 16.

Today in History -- Oct. 3

JUNCTION CITY—A Kansas woman injured in an accident Thursday morning has died.

A Chevy Silverado driven by a 26-year-0ld struck Chieko Jeffries, 71, Junction City as she was crossing the road at the intersection of Highland Drive and Ash Street, according Junction City Police Lt. Cory Odell.

EMS transported Jeffries to Geary Community Hospital and then to the Salina Regional Trauma Unit where she later died. 

Police have not released the name of the driver. The case has been turned over to the county attorney's office for review.&nbsp;

JUNCTION CITY—A Kansas woman injured in an accident Thursday morning has died.A Chevy Silverado driven by a 26-year-0ld struck Chieko Jeffries, 71, Junction City as she was crossing the road at the intersection of Highland Drive and Ash Street, according Junction City Police Lt. Cory Odell.EMS transported Jeffries to Geary Community Hospital and then to the Salina Regional Trauma Unit where she later died. Police have not released the name of the driver. The case has been turned over to the county attorney's office for review.&nbsp;

Kansas woman dies after struck crossing road

Salina USD 305 today reported six new confirmed cases of COVID-19 at its facilities.

According to information on the district's COVID-19 Incidents page, the following were added today.

One positive test at Heartland Early Education

Those additions bring the total to 29 since the district began reporting cases on Sept. 3.

Salina USD 305 today reported six new confirmed cases of COVID-19 at its facilities.According to information on the district's COVID-19 Incidents page, the following were added today.One positive test at Heartland Early EducationOne positive test at Coronado ElementaryOne positive test at Sunset ElementaryOne positive test at Heartland Early EducationOne positive test at Heusner ElementaryOne positive test at Stewart ElementaryThose additions bring the total to 29 since the district began reporting cases on Sept. 3.

USD 305 reports six additional confirmed cases of COVID-19

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

There are 5 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County that have been identified since the Wednesday, September 30 report. The total for the county is now 781, with 166 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 604 that have recovered, and a total of 11 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 7 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID19 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 61,111 cases and 698 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</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 www.kdheks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601676370339.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.There are 5 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County that have been identified since the Wednesday, September 30 report. The total for the county is now 781, with 166 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 604 that have recovered, and a total of 11 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 7 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID19 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 61,111 cases and 698 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</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 www.kdheks.gov.

Saline County reports 5 new COVID-19 cases; 604 of 781 recovered

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today announced three additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 273. Additionally, the health department provided updated case data.

Following is information about the most recent cases, as provided by the health department.

●Positive case No. 271 is a symptomatic male in his 70s with unknown exposure.

●Positive case No. 272 is a symptomatic female in her 80s with unknown exposure.

●Positive case No. 273 is a symptomatic female in her 60s with unknown exposure.

Updated COVID-19 case data provided by the health department is as follows.

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

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

Additionally, 254 of the total 273 cases have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines and five active cases are hospitalized, the health department reported.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today announced three additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 273. Additionally, the health department provided updated case data.Following is information about the most recent cases, as provided by the health department.●Positive case No. 271 is a symptomatic male in his 70s with unknown exposure.●Positive case No. 272 is a symptomatic female in her 80s with unknown exposure.●Positive case No. 273 is a symptomatic female in her 60s with unknown exposure.Updated COVID-19 case data provided by the health department is as follows.●Asymptomatic: 26●Cases with unknown exposure: 109●Cases 60 years old and above: 69●Cases 50-59 years old: 31●Cases 40-49 years old: 35●Cases 30-39 years old: 35●Cases 18-29 years old: 77●Cases under 18 years old: 26●Female cases: 147●Male cases: 126●Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 24●Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 4●Deaths: 1Additionally, 254 of the total 273 cases have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines and five active cases are hospitalized, the health department reported.

McPherson County reports 3 new cases of COVID-19; case stats updated

When one pulls into the east parking lot at Tony's Pizza Events Center, there's now no doubt about where to find the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall.

A crew from Luminous Neon in Hutchinson today was installing a large Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall sign.

In January, the City of Salina announced a 10-year, $500,000 agreement with longtime local Salina business Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc., a subsidiary of Kubota. A part of that agreement was to name the former Heritage Hall the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall. 

The hall is approximately 18,000 square feet and is used as a multi-purpose room within the facility to host conventions, private events, and meetings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601667738792.jpeg" alt="The new Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall sign. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The new Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall sign. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When one pulls into the east parking lot at Tony's Pizza Events Center, there's now no doubt about where to find the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall.A crew from Luminous Neon in Hutchinson today was installing a large Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall sign.In January, the City of Salina announced a 10-year, $500,000 agreement with longtime local Salina business Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc., a subsidiary of Kubota. A part of that agreement was to name the former Heritage Hall the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall. The hall is approximately 18,000 square feet and is used as a multi-purpose room within the facility to host conventions, private events, and meetings.

A positive sign of the times

FALUN -- Two sheds and their contents, including about 20 chickens, were destroyed in a fire Thursday afternoon in Falun.

First responders were dispatched at 2:05 p.m. for the report of a shed fire, however, once they arrived, they discovered two sheds ablaze, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. The sheds and the residence belong to Bryce Wampler, Lindsborg, whose son, Ethan, lives at the residence, Soldan said. Both men had multiple items in the sheds, he added.

The first shed was a loss of $2,000; the loss of items in the shed was estimated at $1,000, Soldan said.

The second shed was was a loss of $5,000, with a loss of items estimated at $12,000, he said. 

Additionally, approximately 20 chickens died in the blaze, Soldan said.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, he added.

Firefighters from Saline County Rural Fire District No. 2, Lindsborg, and Marquette responded to the fire, Soldan said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601654310764.jpeg" alt="The remains of the sheds burn Thursday afternoon in Falun. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The remains of the sheds burn Thursday afternoon in Falun. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>FALUN -- Two sheds and their contents, including about 20 chickens, were destroyed in a fire Thursday afternoon in Falun.First responders were dispatched at 2:05 p.m. for the report of a shed fire, however, once they arrived, they discovered two sheds ablaze, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. The sheds and the residence belong to Bryce Wampler, Lindsborg, whose son, Ethan, lives at the residence, Soldan said. Both men had multiple items in the sheds, he added.The first shed was a loss of $2,000; the loss of items in the shed was estimated at $1,000, Soldan said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601654508212.jpeg" alt="The remains of the sheds." />
 <figcaption>The remains of the sheds.</figcaption>
 </figure>The second shed was was a loss of $5,000, with a loss of items estimated at $12,000, he said. Additionally, approximately 20 chickens died in the blaze, Soldan said.The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, he added.Firefighters from Saline County Rural Fire District No. 2, Lindsborg, and Marquette responded to the fire, Soldan said.

Sheds, chickens destroyed in fire at Falun Thursday

Salina police are investigating the theft of multiple items from a storage shed at the Salina Family YMCA.

Sometime between Sept. 22 and Thursday, someone cut a lock off a shed on the YMCA property at 570 YMCA Drive and took the following items, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.

A straight shaft string trimmer valued at $540

Chainsaw/trimmer/shears parts valued at $680

Miscellaneous other accessories and tools

Total loss was estimated at $1,975, Forrester noted.

Additionally, whoever broke into the shed replaced the cut-off lock with another lock, he added.

Salina police are investigating the theft of multiple items from a storage shed at the Salina Family YMCA.Sometime between Sept. 22 and Thursday, someone cut a lock off a shed on the YMCA property at 570 YMCA Drive and took the following items, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.A straight shaft string trimmer valued at $540Chainsaw/trimmer/shears parts valued at $680A Stihl 16-inch chainsaw valued at $250A Stihl Pro Trimmer valued at $330Miscellaneous other accessories and toolsTotal loss was estimated at $1,975, Forrester noted.Additionally, whoever broke into the shed replaced the cut-off lock with another lock, he added.

Multiple items stolen from shed at YMCA

A Salina teen was arrested on multiple requested charges, including aggravated battery and damage to property after two incidents early Thursday morning.

A 51-year-old Salina man told police that he witnessed an orange car strike a white pickup at Crawford and Fairdale at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The white pickup drove off and the man pulled his 2007 Chevy Trailblazer in front of the orange car to prevent it from leaving, Forrester noted. 

The driver of the car, Michela Redmond, 18, of Salina, exited her vehicle, approached the Trailblazer, and allegedly began pulling on the rear driver side window that was open slightly until it broke, according to Forrester. The man exited his vehicle and Redmond allegedly began punching him repeatedly in the face, breaking his eye glasses, valued at $300, Forrester noted. 

The man got back in his vehicle and Redmond then got back in her vehicle and allegedly ran directly into the man's vehicle causing approximately $1,300 in damage to the front bumper. She then allegedly backed up and tried to run into his vehicle again, but he was able to back up to avoid the collision, Forrester explained. Redmond then fled the scene, he added.

According to Forrester, Redmond was located in the 700 block of Fairdale, driving a 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, and was arrested on the following requested charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601648104093.jpeg" alt="Michela Redmond. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Michela Redmond. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A Salina teen was arrested on multiple requested charges, including aggravated battery and damage to property after two incidents early Thursday morning.A 51-year-old Salina man told police that he witnessed an orange car strike a white pickup at Crawford and Fairdale at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The white pickup drove off and the man pulled his 2007 Chevy Trailblazer in front of the orange car to prevent it from leaving, Forrester noted. The driver of the car, Michela Redmond, 18, of Salina, exited her vehicle, approached the Trailblazer, and allegedly began pulling on the rear driver side window that was open slightly until it broke, according to Forrester. The man exited his vehicle and Redmond allegedly began punching him repeatedly in the face, breaking his eye glasses, valued at $300, Forrester noted. The man got back in his vehicle and Redmond then got back in her vehicle and allegedly ran directly into the man's vehicle causing approximately $1,300 in damage to the front bumper. She then allegedly backed up and tried to run into his vehicle again, but he was able to back up to avoid the collision, Forrester explained. Redmond then fled the scene, he added.According to Forrester, Redmond was located in the 700 block of Fairdale, driving a 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, and was arrested on the following requested charges.Aggravated batteryFelony damage to propertyBatteryDamage to property

Salina teen faces multiple requested charges after Thursday incidents

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

By KARISSA NIEHOFF Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations

BILL FAFLICK Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused everyone to hit the pause button on life. During the stoppage and forced time away from routines, many people have come to appreciate the important things in life – family, friends and faith among others.

Still, the loss of some routines and regular activities hurt worse than others, namely last spring when high school sports and performing arts were shut down. Millions of students, coaches, parents and fans quickly began to realize the privilege of involvement in these education-based programs in schools.&nbsp;

Now, slowly but surely, high school sports and performing arts are on their way back into schools in Kansas and across the country. While things are different – with social distancing, universal masking protocols in place – there is a resounding feeling of thankfulness that some degree of normalcy is returning.

As a result, this year’s celebration of National High School Activities Month will be like none other in the 40-year history of the event. Since 1980, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and its member state associations have promoted the values of high school activity programs during the month of October, but this year will be extra special.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kicking off the month-long focus October 4-10 is National Sportsmanship, Fan Appreciation and Public-Address Announcers Week.

Hopefully, one of the silver linings of the pandemic is that parents and other fans are more grateful for any opportunity to attend contests this year and positively support student participants. At this time last year, there were numerous incidents of inappropriate adult behavior at high school events – mostly directed at officials.&nbsp;

This year, in addition to being respectful of officials, being a good fan involves supporting participants by social distancing and wearing a mask. Attending a high school contest is even more of a privilege, and players, coaches and officials need positive and encouraging support.

The week of October 11-17 is National Performing Arts Activities and Local State High School Associations Week.

More than four million high school students are involved in speech, debate, music, band and theatre activities each year. And the results of an aerosol study conducted by the NFHS and 125 other organizations show that if schools are in session, these activities can be safely conducted by implementing a mitigation strategy focused on Masks-Distance-Time-Air Flow-Hygiene.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Competing on the debate team or playing in the marching band or acting on stage as a part of the theatre team help students develop critical-thinking skills. They also learn to be better communicators and tend to be good listeners – qualities that are essential for success in life and in their chosen careers.

This week is also set aside to recognize the 51 NFHS member state associations, which have been working overtime for the past seven months with state government, health and education leaders to outline a safe return to activities.

The week of October 18-24 is National Coaches, Advisors, Officials and Sponsors Week.

High school coaches are playing an even larger role this year in connecting with their athletes – whether that connection is virtual or in-person. In some situations, a coach may be the most significant mentor in a student-athlete’s life, so keeping that relationship intact is paramount. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The nationwide shortage of officials has been exacerbated by the pandemic as some officials have decided not to return. To help with this critical situation, the NFHS is continuing its #BecomeAnOfficial campaign. Individuals can get started on a career in officiating by clicking on the following link: www.highschoolofficials.com

The week of October 25-31 is National Community Service/Youth Awareness Week. Schools across the country need financial support from communities due to loss of revenue from the pandemic.

Whether as a participant, parent, coach, official, teacher, administrator, community supporter or general fan, millions are invested in the greatest education-based programs in the country – high school sports and performing arts. In Kansas, and throughout the rest of our nation, we encourage support of these programs more than ever during National High School Activities Month.&nbsp;

More information on National High School Activities Month is available on the NFHS website at <a href="http://www.NFHS.org/HSActivitiesMonth">www.NFHS.org/HSActivitiesMonth</a>.&nbsp;

By KARISSA NIEHOFF Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School AssociationsandBILL FAFLICK Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities AssociationThe COVID-19 pandemic has caused everyone to hit the pause button on life. During the stoppage and forced time away from routines, many people have come to appreciate the important things in life – family, friends and faith among others.Still, the loss of some routines and regular activities hurt worse than others, namely last spring when high school sports and performing arts were shut down. Millions of students, coaches, parents and fans quickly began to realize the privilege of involvement in these education-based programs in schools.&nbsp;Now, slowly but surely, high school sports and performing arts are on their way back into schools in Kansas and across the country. While things are different – with social distancing, universal masking protocols in place – there is a resounding feeling of thankfulness that some degree of normalcy is returning.As a result, this year’s celebration of National High School Activities Month will be like none other in the 40-year history of the event. Since 1980, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and its member state associations have promoted the values of high school activity programs during the month of October, but this year will be extra special.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kicking off the month-long focus October 4-10 is National Sportsmanship, Fan Appreciation and Public-Address Announcers Week.Hopefully, one of the silver linings of the pandemic is that parents and other fans are more grateful for any opportunity to attend contests this year and positively support student participants. At this time last year, there were numerous incidents of inappropriate adult behavior at high school events – mostly directed at officials.&nbsp;This year, in addition to being respectful of officials, being a good fan involves supporting participants by social distancing and wearing a mask. Attending a high school contest is even more of a privilege, and players, coaches and officials need positive and encouraging support.The week of October 11-17 is National Performing Arts Activities and Local State High School Associations Week.More than four million high school students are involved in speech, debate, music, band and theatre activities each year. And the results of an aerosol study conducted by the NFHS and 125 other organizations show that if schools are in session, these activities can be safely conducted by implementing a mitigation strategy focused on Masks-Distance-Time-Air Flow-Hygiene.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Competing on the debate team or playing in the marching band or acting on stage as a part of the theatre team help students develop critical-thinking skills. They also learn to be better communicators and tend to be good listeners – qualities that are essential for success in life and in their chosen careers.This week is also set aside to recognize the 51 NFHS member state associations, which have been working overtime for the past seven months with state government, health and education leaders to outline a safe return to activities.The week of October 18-24 is National Coaches, Advisors, Officials and Sponsors Week.High school coaches are playing an even larger role this year in connecting with their athletes – whether that connection is virtual or in-person. In some situations, a coach may be the most significant mentor in a student-athlete’s life, so keeping that relationship intact is paramount. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The nationwide shortage of officials has been exacerbated by the pandemic as some officials have decided not to return. To help with this critical situation, the NFHS is continuing its #BecomeAnOfficial campaign. Individuals can get started on a career in officiating by clicking on the following link: www.highschoolofficials.comThe week of October 25-31 is National Community Service/Youth Awareness Week. Schools across the country need financial support from communities due to loss of revenue from the pandemic.Whether as a participant, parent, coach, official, teacher, administrator, community supporter or general fan, millions are invested in the greatest education-based programs in the country – high school sports and performing arts. In Kansas, and throughout the rest of our nation, we encourage support of these programs more than ever during National High School Activities Month.&nbsp;More information on National High School Activities Month is available on the NFHS website at <a href="http://www.NFHS.org/HSActivitiesMonth">www.NFHS.org/HSActivitiesMonth</a>.&nbsp;

Celebrating return to play during National High School Activities Month

Do you have suggestions on how to interact with debt collectors? Sometimes they are reasonable and easy to work with, but others are rude and pushy. Your advice would be appreciated.

You’ll run into all sorts of collectors, no matter what kind of debt you have. Occasionally they&nbsp;are&nbsp;friendly and understanding, while others can be downright mean and nasty. Whatever their approach is, you have to keep in mind they’re all after one thing—your money.

Most&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/the-truth-about-debt-collectors" target="_blank">debt collectors</a>&nbsp;prey on a person’s emotions and lack of confidence. If you don’t know your rights, they can scare you by using bogus threats. Understand what I’m saying here, Paul. If you have debt, you have a legal and moral obligation to pay it. At the same time, you need to calmly and confidently control these kinds of conversations. You might have made some financial mistakes, but that doesn’t mean you should allow someone to abuse you.

When it comes to dealing with debt collectors, keep track of all the calls and emails. Write down the names of anyone you talk to and when they called. A record of all contact is important,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it will make it easier to report them if they violate the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. If the collector agrees to settle the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/-fair-debt-collection-practices-act0" target="_blank">debt,</a>&nbsp;get it in writing and keep the document as proof in case they “forget” they made the offer.

Also, be completely up to speed on your accounts. Know what you owe, who you owe, and have a record of all the payments you’ve made. Knowing the facts gives you the upper hand in any situation. Don’t be intimidated by debt collectors, either. Calmly explain your situation, the reason you’re behind on the debt, and how you plan to pay it off. Don’t get emotional and let yourself get drawn into an argument or shouting match. If they insult you, or yell or curse at you—yes, this happens sometimes—hang up immediately.&nbsp;

Financial troubles like debt can make every aspect of your life feel messed up. If you want to get back on track, start&nbsp;living on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.everydollar.com/guide-to-budgeting-dave-says" target="_blank">written, monthly budget</a>, and attack your debts using the debt snowball system. It’s not easy, and it takes discipline, hard work, and sacrifices, but it’s worth it!

<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Dave Ramsey Show, heard by more than 16 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596845065840.jpeg" alt="Dave Ramsey" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,Do you have suggestions on how to interact with debt collectors? Sometimes they are reasonable and easy to work with, but others are rude and pushy. Your advice would be appreciated.PaulDear Paul,You’ll run into all sorts of collectors, no matter what kind of debt you have. Occasionally they&nbsp;are&nbsp;friendly and understanding, while others can be downright mean and nasty. Whatever their approach is, you have to keep in mind they’re all after one thing—your money.Most&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/the-truth-about-debt-collectors" target="_blank">debt collectors</a>&nbsp;prey on a person’s emotions and lack of confidence. If you don’t know your rights, they can scare you by using bogus threats. Understand what I’m saying here, Paul. If you have debt, you have a legal and moral obligation to pay it. At the same time, you need to calmly and confidently control these kinds of conversations. You might have made some financial mistakes, but that doesn’t mean you should allow someone to abuse you.When it comes to dealing with debt collectors, keep track of all the calls and emails. Write down the names of anyone you talk to and when they called. A record of all contact is important,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it will make it easier to report them if they violate the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. If the collector agrees to settle the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/-fair-debt-collection-practices-act0" target="_blank">debt,</a>&nbsp;get it in writing and keep the document as proof in case they “forget” they made the offer.Also, be completely up to speed on your accounts. Know what you owe, who you owe, and have a record of all the payments you’ve made. Knowing the facts gives you the upper hand in any situation. Don’t be intimidated by debt collectors, either. Calmly explain your situation, the reason you’re behind on the debt, and how you plan to pay it off. Don’t get emotional and let yourself get drawn into an argument or shouting match. If they insult you, or yell or curse at you—yes, this happens sometimes—hang up immediately.&nbsp;Financial troubles like debt can make every aspect of your life feel messed up. If you want to get back on track, start&nbsp;living on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.everydollar.com/guide-to-budgeting-dave-says" target="_blank">written, monthly budget</a>, and attack your debts using the debt snowball system. It’s not easy, and it takes discipline, hard work, and sacrifices, but it’s worth it!Dave<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Dave Ramsey Show, heard by more than 16 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

DAVE SAYS: Handling debt collectors

Between Sept. 26-28, 2020, a vehicle was stolen from a warehouse in the 400 block of North Fifth Street, Salina. 

This vehicle was a 1968 bronze-colored Chevrolet Camaro SS with a Kansas tag of 188GAB. The estimated value of the vehicle is more than $30,000. 

If you have any information concerning these events or identification of the individual, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637), or visit <a href="https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org">https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org</a> to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name. 2020-27867. 1294.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601640789886.jpeg" alt="Photos of the stolen car courtesy Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>Photos of the stolen car courtesy Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>Between Sept. 26-28, 2020, a vehicle was stolen from a warehouse in the 400 block of North Fifth Street, Salina. This vehicle was a 1968 bronze-colored Chevrolet Camaro SS with a Kansas tag of 188GAB. The estimated value of the vehicle is more than $30,000. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601640846382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have any information concerning these events or identification of the individual, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637), or visit <a href="https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org">https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/salina.org</a> to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name. 2020-27867. 1294.

Crimestoppers seeks tips about stolen 1968 Camaro

MANHATTAN — The works of an artist from Kansas who is considered to be one of the most prolific and innovative art deco ceramic sculptors of the 20th century will be featured in the next virtual exhibition offered by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beach.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University.

"Waylande Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse" will open online Tuesday, Oct. 13, at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beach.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">beach.k-state.edu</a>.&nbsp;This virtual retrospective expands on an exhibition organized by the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum at Alfred University in New York State and features 3D views of Gregory's art, film footage and interviews with specialists.

"Gregory's groundbreaking techniques enabled him to create monumental ceramic works, including his Fountain of the Atom for the 1939 New York World’s Fair — a tribute to atomic energy that earned the attention of Albert Einstein," said Elizabeth Seaton, Beach Museum of Art curator and the co-curator, with independent scholar Tom Folk, of the Gregory exhibition.

Born in the southeast Kansas community of&nbsp;Baxter Springs&nbsp;in 1905, as a young man Gregory designed architectural ornaments for the Missouri Theatre in St. Joseph and the famous Aztec Room in the Hotel President in Kansas City. His early development as a sculptor was shaped by study with prominent beaux arts figure Lorado Taft in Chicago. Soon after, Gregory became lead designer at Cowan Pottery in Ohio, known for its limited-edition table-top sculptures. He also became a professor at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan before settling in New Jersey in an art deco home he designed.

Gregory was known as one of the few ceramic artists of the pre-World War II era to address social and political concerns in his work.&nbsp;During the Great Depression, the Gregory produced ceramic sculpture and tile murals for the Works Progress Administration, including the depiction of a pony express rider for the Columbus, Kansas, post office. Gregory served as New Jersey’s director of WPA sculptural programs. During the 1940s and 1950s, he designed tableware, which sold at retail stores such as Bonwit Teller and Neiman Marcus. He died in 1971.

The virtual exhibition and both live and pre-recorded online events will be offered free by the Beach Museum of Art:

•&nbsp;Livestream lecture by Tom Folk, co-curator of "Waylande&nbsp;Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse,"&nbsp;at 5:30 p.m. Thursday.

• Virtual tour of the Waylande Gregory exhibition, led by Elizabeth Seaton, exhibition co-curator, at 1 p.m. Oct. 17. The tour is part of the Beach Museum of Art's Art in Motion Expo.

• "Innovations in Clay" is a livestream talk to be presented at 2 p.m. Oct. 17, by Nick&nbsp;Geankoplis, K-State assistant professor of art, as part of the Art in Motion Expo.

• "Waylande Gregory and the New York World's Fair," a livestream lecture by Robert W. Rydell, professor of American studies at Montana State University, will be at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 12.

• "Waylande Gregory and Cowan Pottery," a livestream lecture by Greg Hatch, curator and historian at the Cowan Pottery Museum, will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 18, 2021.

To take part in any of the related events, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beach.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">beach.k-state.edu</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601604085695.jpeg" alt="Waylande Gregory's "Flamingo Figure and Console Set" was made in 1930 while he was with Cowen Pottery in Rocky River, Ohio. The glazed earthenware, which is 14 x 15 x 11 inches, is part of a private collection. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>Waylande Gregory's "Flamingo Figure and Console Set" was made in 1930 while he was with Cowen Pottery in Rocky River, Ohio. The glazed earthenware, which is 14 x 15 x 11 inches, is part of a private collection. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>

MANHATTAN — The works of an artist from Kansas who is considered to be one of the most prolific and innovative art deco ceramic sculptors of the 20th century will be featured in the next virtual exhibition offered by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beach.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University."Waylande Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse" will open online Tuesday, Oct. 13, at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beach.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">beach.k-state.edu</a>.&nbsp;This virtual retrospective expands on an exhibition organized by the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum at Alfred University in New York State and features 3D views of Gregory's art, film footage and interviews with specialists."Gregory's groundbreaking techniques enabled him to create monumental ceramic works, including his Fountain of the Atom for the 1939 New York World’s Fair — a tribute to atomic energy that earned the attention of Albert Einstein," said Elizabeth Seaton, Beach Museum of Art curator and the co-curator, with independent scholar Tom Folk, of the Gregory exhibition.Born in the southeast Kansas community of&nbsp;Baxter Springs&nbsp;in 1905, as a young man Gregory designed architectural ornaments for the Missouri Theatre in St. Joseph and the famous Aztec Room in the Hotel President in Kansas City. His early development as a sculptor was shaped by study with prominent beaux arts figure Lorado Taft in Chicago. Soon after, Gregory became lead designer at Cowan Pottery in Ohio, known for its limited-edition table-top sculptures. He also became a professor at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan before settling in New Jersey in an art deco home he designed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601604284200.jpeg" alt=""Girl with Olive" is a 1932, glazed stoneware by Waylande Gregory. The work, 14 1/2 x 8 x 6 1/2 inches, is part of a private collection. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>"Girl with Olive" is a 1932, glazed stoneware by Waylande Gregory. The work, 14 1/2 x 8 x 6 1/2 inches, is part of a private collection. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>Gregory was known as one of the few ceramic artists of the pre-World War II era to address social and political concerns in his work.&nbsp;During the Great Depression, the Gregory produced ceramic sculpture and tile murals for the Works Progress Administration, including the depiction of a pony express rider for the Columbus, Kansas, post office. Gregory served as New Jersey’s director of WPA sculptural programs. During the 1940s and 1950s, he designed tableware, which sold at retail stores such as Bonwit Teller and Neiman Marcus. He died in 1971.The virtual exhibition and both live and pre-recorded online events will be offered free by the Beach Museum of Art:•&nbsp;Livestream lecture by Tom Folk, co-curator of "Waylande&nbsp;Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse,"&nbsp;at 5:30 p.m. Thursday.• Virtual tour of the Waylande Gregory exhibition, led by Elizabeth Seaton, exhibition co-curator, at 1 p.m. Oct. 17. The tour is part of the Beach Museum of Art's Art in Motion Expo.• "Innovations in Clay" is a livestream talk to be presented at 2 p.m. Oct. 17, by Nick&nbsp;Geankoplis, K-State assistant professor of art, as part of the Art in Motion Expo.• "Waylande Gregory and the New York World's Fair," a livestream lecture by Robert W. Rydell, professor of American studies at Montana State University, will be at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 12.• "Waylande Gregory and Cowan Pottery," a livestream lecture by Greg Hatch, curator and historian at the Cowan Pottery Museum, will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 18, 2021.To take part in any of the related events, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beach.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">beach.k-state.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Work by leading art deco sculptor, Kansan featured in new Beach exhibition

Today is Friday, Oct. 2, the 276th day of 2020. There are 90 days left in the year. 

On Oct. 2, 1944, German troops crushed the two-month-old Warsaw Uprising, during which a quarter of a million people had been killed. 

In 1869, political and spiritual leader Mohandas K. Gandhi was born in Porbandar, India.

In 1890, comedian Groucho Marx was born Julius Marx in New York.

In 1941, during World War II, German armies launched an all-out drive against Moscow; Soviet forces succeeded in holding onto their capital. 

In 1950, the comic strip "Peanuts," created by Charles M. Schulz, was syndicated to seven newspapers. 

In 1958, the former French colony of Guinea in West Africa proclaimed its independence.

In 1967, Thurgood Marshall was sworn as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court as the court opened its new term. 

In 1970, one of two chartered twin-engine planes flying the Wichita State University football team to Utah crashed into a mountain near Silver Plume, Colorado, killing 31 of the 40 people on board. 

In 1984, Richard W. Miller became the first FBI agent to be arrested and charged with espionage. (Miller was tried three times; he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, but was released after nine years.) 

In 2002, the Washington, D.C.-area sniper attacks began, setting off a frantic manhunt lasting three weeks. (John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo were finally arrested for killing 10 people and wounding three others; Muhammad was executed in 2009; Malvo was sentenced to life in prison.) 

In 2005, a tour boat, the Ethan Allen, capsized on New York's Lake George, killing 20 elderly passengers. Playwright August Wilson died in Seattle at age 60. Actor-comedian Nipsey Russell died in New York at age 87. 

In 2017, rock superstar Tom Petty died at a Los Angeles hospital at the age of 66, a day after suffering cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu, California. 

In 2018, President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking Christine Blasey (BLAH'-zee)&nbsp; Ford over her claim that she had been sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago; Trump also said it's a "very scary time for young men in America" who could be considered guilty based on an accusation.

Ten years ago: A coalition of progressive and civil rights groups marched by the thousands on the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., pledging to support Democrats struggling to keep power on Capitol Hill.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama said he wouldn't sign another temporary government funding bill after the current one expired Dec. 11, insisting that congressional Republicans and Democrats work out a long-term budget deal with the White House. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced his resignation, which President Obama reluctantly accepted. Former Panamanian President Eric Arturo Delvalle, 78, who was deposed in 1988 after challenging then-dictator Manuel Noriega, died in Cleveland, Ohio.

One year ago: House Democrats threatened to make White House defiance of a congressional request for testimony and documents potential grounds for an article of impeachment. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo acknowledged for the first time that he had been on the phone call in which President Donald Trump pressed Ukraine's president to investigate Democrat Joe Biden. Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders canceled campaign events "until further notice," a day after being treated for what his campaign later confirmed was a heart attack. A World War II-era plane with 13 people aboard crashed and burned at an airport near Hartford, Connecticut, after encountering mechanical trouble on takeoff; seven people were killed. A Dallas jury sentenced white former police officer Amber Guyger to 10 years in prison, a day after convicting her of murder in the killing of her Black upstairs neighbor; she said she had mistaken his apartment for her own.

Today's Birthdays: Retired MLB All-Star Maury Wills is 88. Movie critic Rex Reed is 82. Singer-songwriter Don McLean is 75. Cajun/country singer Jo-el Sonnier is 74. Actor Avery Brooks is 72. Fashion designer Donna Karan is 72. Photographer Annie Leibovitz is 71. Rock musician Mike Rutherford (Genesis, Mike &amp; the Mechanics) is 70. Singer-actor Sting is 69. Actor Robin Riker is 68. Actor Lorraine Bracco is 66. Country musician Greg Jennings (Restless Heart) is 66. Rock singer Phil Oakey (The Human League) is 65. Rhythm-and-blues singer Freddie Jackson is 64. Singer-producer Robbie Nevil is 62. Retro-soul singer James Hunter is 58. Former NFL quarterback Mark Rypien is 58. Rock musician Bud Gaugh (Sublime, Eyes Adrift) is 53. Folk-country singer Gillian Welch is 53. Country singer Kelly Willis is 52. Actor Joey Slotnick is 52. Rhythm-and-blues singer Dion Allen (Az Yet) is 50. Actor-talk show host Kelly Ripa (TV: "Live with Kelly and Ryan") is 50. Rock musician Jim Root (AKA #4 Slipknot) is 49. Singer Tiffany is 49. Rock singer Lene Nystrom is 47. Actor Efren Ramirez is 47. Rhythm-and-blues singer LaTocha Scott (Xscape) is 47. Gospel singer Mandisa (TV: "American Idol") is 44. Actor Brianna Brown is 41. Rock musician Mike Rodden (Hinder) is 38. Former tennis player Marion Bartoli is 36. Actor Christopher Larkin is 33. Rock singer Brittany Howard (Alabama Shakes) is 32. Actor Samantha Barks is 30. Actor Elizabeth McLaughlin is 27.

<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 Friday, Oct. 2, the 276th day of 2020. There are 90 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Oct. 2, 1944, German troops crushed the two-month-old Warsaw Uprising, during which a quarter of a million people had been killed. On this date: In 1869, political and spiritual leader Mohandas K. Gandhi was born in Porbandar, India.In 1890, comedian Groucho Marx was born Julius Marx in New York.In 1941, during World War II, German armies launched an all-out drive against Moscow; Soviet forces succeeded in holding onto their capital. In 1950, the comic strip "Peanuts," created by Charles M. Schulz, was syndicated to seven newspapers. In 1958, the former French colony of Guinea in West Africa proclaimed its independence.In 1967, Thurgood Marshall was sworn as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court as the court opened its new term. In 1970, one of two chartered twin-engine planes flying the Wichita State University football team to Utah crashed into a mountain near Silver Plume, Colorado, killing 31 of the 40 people on board. In 1984, Richard W. Miller became the first FBI agent to be arrested and charged with espionage. (Miller was tried three times; he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, but was released after nine years.) In 2002, the Washington, D.C.-area sniper attacks began, setting off a frantic manhunt lasting three weeks. (John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo were finally arrested for killing 10 people and wounding three others; Muhammad was executed in 2009; Malvo was sentenced to life in prison.) In 2005, a tour boat, the Ethan Allen, capsized on New York's Lake George, killing 20 elderly passengers. Playwright August Wilson died in Seattle at age 60. Actor-comedian Nipsey Russell died in New York at age 87. In 2017, rock superstar Tom Petty died at a Los Angeles hospital at the age of 66, a day after suffering cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu, California. In 2018, President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking Christine Blasey (BLAH'-zee)&nbsp; Ford over her claim that she had been sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago; Trump also said it's a "very scary time for young men in America" who could be considered guilty based on an accusation.Ten years ago: A coalition of progressive and civil rights groups marched by the thousands on the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., pledging to support Democrats struggling to keep power on Capitol Hill.Five years ago: President Barack Obama said he wouldn't sign another temporary government funding bill after the current one expired Dec. 11, insisting that congressional Republicans and Democrats work out a long-term budget deal with the White House. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced his resignation, which President Obama reluctantly accepted. Former Panamanian President Eric Arturo Delvalle, 78, who was deposed in 1988 after challenging then-dictator Manuel Noriega, died in Cleveland, Ohio.One year ago: House Democrats threatened to make White House defiance of a congressional request for testimony and documents potential grounds for an article of impeachment. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo acknowledged for the first time that he had been on the phone call in which President Donald Trump pressed Ukraine's president to investigate Democrat Joe Biden. Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders canceled campaign events "until further notice," a day after being treated for what his campaign later confirmed was a heart attack. A World War II-era plane with 13 people aboard crashed and burned at an airport near Hartford, Connecticut, after encountering mechanical trouble on takeoff; seven people were killed. A Dallas jury sentenced white former police officer Amber Guyger to 10 years in prison, a day after convicting her of murder in the killing of her Black upstairs neighbor; she said she had mistaken his apartment for her own.Today's Birthdays: Retired MLB All-Star Maury Wills is 88. Movie critic Rex Reed is 82. Singer-songwriter Don McLean is 75. Cajun/country singer Jo-el Sonnier is 74. Actor Avery Brooks is 72. Fashion designer Donna Karan is 72. Photographer Annie Leibovitz is 71. Rock musician Mike Rutherford (Genesis, Mike &amp; the Mechanics) is 70. Singer-actor Sting is 69. Actor Robin Riker is 68. Actor Lorraine Bracco is 66. Country musician Greg Jennings (Restless Heart) is 66. Rock singer Phil Oakey (The Human League) is 65. Rhythm-and-blues singer Freddie Jackson is 64. Singer-producer Robbie Nevil is 62. Retro-soul singer James Hunter is 58. Former NFL quarterback Mark Rypien is 58. Rock musician Bud Gaugh (Sublime, Eyes Adrift) is 53. Folk-country singer Gillian Welch is 53. Country singer Kelly Willis is 52. Actor Joey Slotnick is 52. Rhythm-and-blues singer Dion Allen (Az Yet) is 50. Actor-talk show host Kelly Ripa (TV: "Live with Kelly and Ryan") is 50. Rock musician Jim Root (AKA #4 Slipknot) is 49. Singer Tiffany is 49. Rock singer Lene Nystrom is 47. Actor Efren Ramirez is 47. Rhythm-and-blues singer LaTocha Scott (Xscape) is 47. Gospel singer Mandisa (TV: "American Idol") is 44. Actor Brianna Brown is 41. Rock musician Mike Rodden (Hinder) is 38. Former tennis player Marion Bartoli is 36. Actor Christopher Larkin is 33. Rock singer Brittany Howard (Alabama Shakes) is 32. Actor Samantha Barks is 30. Actor Elizabeth McLaughlin is 27.