Late night showers and storms are possible for areas mainly northeast of Wichita overnight through early Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594940258412.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Late night showers and storms are possible for areas mainly northeast of Wichita overnight through early Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Wichita.

NWS: More late night, early morning storms possible over much of area

MANHATTAN — Thirty-four students from eight schools in Kansas have been awarded the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Kansas Agriculture Skills and Competencies Certificate. 

Of these, 32 were awarded the general certificate, nine were awarded the animal science certificate and one was awarded the plant systems certificate. High schools with students earning certificates include Andale, Buhler, Centre, Ellsworth, Holton, Marion, Prairie View, Republic County, and Wellington.

Students have completed requirements in the areas of classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experience (SAE) and FFA. They have demonstrated excellence in agricultural knowledge, career readiness and leadership development. Students must also maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher in all school courses to earn the certification.

“The criteria used to recognize these students represents more than just one specific exam, event, or activity on a single day but a culmination of successful involvement and achievement in multiple activities&nbsp;over four years of high school,” said John Clark, the agriculture education teacher at Buhler High School. “Students must be very well-rounded in a variety of requirements to achieve such a high honor and these students should be proud&nbsp;of their accomplishment of earning these certificates.”

KDA is committed to establishing a dynamic and well-equipped workforce that meets the diverse needs of the agriculture industry today. “We need skilled young people to operate high-tech machinery on our dairies, ranches and farms, and technical specialists to provide research in agronomy, technology and animal science fields,” said Kerry Wefald, KDA marketing director.&nbsp;“Kansas agriculture is growing, and the industry requires a well-equipped workforce to help support that growth in our great state. We are proud of these young adults.”

These certificates have been endorsed by several industry organizations and employers:

Kansas Animal Science Skills &amp; Competencies Certificate: Kansas Farm Bureau, Frontier Farm Credit and Triangle H.

Kansas Agriculture Skills &amp; Competencies Certificate: FFA Foundation, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Grain &amp; Feed Association and Kansas Livestock Association.

Kansas Plant Systems Skills &amp; Competencies Certificate: Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Wheat, Frontier Farm Credit, Harris Crop Insurance, Hummert International, Scott Cooperative Association, Milliken Ag Concepts, and Middle Creek Seed.

Applications for the Kansas Agriculture Skills &amp; Competencies Certificates are accepted each spring. To find more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2Fageducation&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cb89fa85229ae4d67bf3908d829923d4c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637305055532746831&amp;sdata=Hfhtg34T6gR1Y2rmZ%2B8NwHuU13GYZ6Rn1ltaRUbiKmI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/ageducation</a>.

Following is the complete list of students, as provided by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Kansas Agriculture Skills and Competencies Certificates

Kansas Plant Systems Skills and Competencies Certificates

Kansas Animal Science Skills and Competencies Certificates

MANHATTAN — Thirty-four students from eight schools in Kansas have been awarded the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Kansas Agriculture Skills and Competencies Certificate. Of these, 32 were awarded the general certificate, nine were awarded the animal science certificate and one was awarded the plant systems certificate. High schools with students earning certificates include Andale, Buhler, Centre, Ellsworth, Holton, Marion, Prairie View, Republic County, and Wellington.Students have completed requirements in the areas of classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experience (SAE) and FFA. They have demonstrated excellence in agricultural knowledge, career readiness and leadership development. Students must also maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher in all school courses to earn the certification.“The criteria used to recognize these students represents more than just one specific exam, event, or activity on a single day but a culmination of successful involvement and achievement in multiple activities&nbsp;over four years of high school,” said John Clark, the agriculture education teacher at Buhler High School. “Students must be very well-rounded in a variety of requirements to achieve such a high honor and these students should be proud&nbsp;of their accomplishment of earning these certificates.”KDA is committed to establishing a dynamic and well-equipped workforce that meets the diverse needs of the agriculture industry today. “We need skilled young people to operate high-tech machinery on our dairies, ranches and farms, and technical specialists to provide research in agronomy, technology and animal science fields,” said Kerry Wefald, KDA marketing director.&nbsp;“Kansas agriculture is growing, and the industry requires a well-equipped workforce to help support that growth in our great state. We are proud of these young adults.”These certificates have been endorsed by several industry organizations and employers:Kansas Animal Science Skills &amp; Competencies Certificate: Kansas Farm Bureau, Frontier Farm Credit and Triangle H.Kansas Agriculture Skills &amp; Competencies Certificate: FFA Foundation, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Grain &amp; Feed Association and Kansas Livestock Association.Kansas Plant Systems Skills &amp; Competencies Certificate: Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Wheat, Frontier Farm Credit, Harris Crop Insurance, Hummert International, Scott Cooperative Association, Milliken Ag Concepts, and Middle Creek Seed.Applications for the Kansas Agriculture Skills &amp; Competencies Certificates are accepted each spring. To find more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2Fageducation&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cb89fa85229ae4d67bf3908d829923d4c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637305055532746831&amp;sdata=Hfhtg34T6gR1Y2rmZ%2B8NwHuU13GYZ6Rn1ltaRUbiKmI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/ageducation</a>.Following is the complete list of students, as provided by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.Kansas Agriculture Skills and Competencies CertificatesAndale High SchoolLaura DollBuhler High SchoolTrenton ArheartKaden ArmbrusterSamantha BaldwinJackson BerningKody CarltonJordan ChildsConnor ComptonColt HahnGrace HickertTrenton MatneyMorgan Anne MillerHaley MillerAlex PapenfussPiper SchlatterSierra SherryCade TaylorEmma WilsonCentre High SchoolJensen RiffelHolton High SchoolDanni KlahrBridget KucanCailin ParksChristopher RoushMarion High SchoolPeyton EnseyCassandra MeyerPrairie View High SchoolBrock HeideJosephine TeagardenRepublic County High SchoolAlexis HansenHunter HartnerJena KuncEmma MorrisWellington High SchoolLuke McCombKansas Plant Systems Skills and Competencies CertificatesBuhler High SchoolJordan ChildsKansas Animal Science Skills and Competencies CertificatesAndale High SchoolAbbie SchwabBuhler High SchoolColt HahnGrace HickertTrenton MatneyMorgan Anne MillerPiper SchlatterSierra SherryCade TaylorWellington High SchoolTaima Graves

Area ag ed students awarded Kansas skills and competencies certificates

UPDATE: NWS heat indices map was added.

Heat advisories have been issued for counties in our area for Friday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a heat advisory  in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.

Heat index values of up to 106 are expected.

Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

Additionally, NWS in Topeka has issued a heat advisory in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.

Heat index values of 105 to 110 degrees are expected.

Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke to occur. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

UPDATE: NWS heat indices map was added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594939897381.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Heat advisories have been issued for counties in our area for Friday.The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a heat advisory in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.Marion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyHeat index values of up to 106 are expected.Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.Additionally, NWS in Topeka has issued a heat advisory in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.Clay County Cloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountyHeat index values of 105 to 110 degrees are expected.Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke to occur. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

NWS issues heat advisories for Friday afternoon, evening

The Live Well Saline County Coalition has been selected as one of 24 grantees for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS)&nbsp;second phase of Pathways to a Healthy Kansas initiative. 

This includes 12 returning communities that were selected in the initiative's first phase of grants.

Pathways to a Healthy Kansas is the largest community grant program ever funded by BCBSKS. Since the initiative began in 2016, BCBSKS has donated more than $11.7 million in grants and assistance to communities throughout Kansas. The Pathways program was created to inspire long-lasting, community-wide health and wellness in communities across Kansas.

“We are excited to recognize our second cohort of Pathways grantees,” said Matt All, president and CEO of BCBSKS. “We have been rooted in Kansas for over 75 years and have a commitment to our neighbors to strengthen the health of all Kansans. Through our Pathways initiative, we are making strides toward this goal by helping remove barriers to accessing healthy foods, increasing physical activity and preventing commercial tobacco use. We are thrilled to continue this program with our new Pathways grantees.”

The grant funding includes a coordination grant of $200,000 for each community. In addition, Saline County will have the opportunity to apply for non-competitive implementation grants amounting to $300,000, for a total of up to $500,000. 

Live Well Saline County has designated the Tammy Walker Cancer Center as the fiduciary agent and Daniel Craig, cancer outreach coordinator at Tammy Walker Cancer Center, will serve as the grant manager.

“The Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant will enable us to bring everyone together so rather than doing a lot of great individual programs and efforts we can work more collaboratively as a community,” Craig said. “Being part of the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas cohort will provide opportunities for us to learn from other communities and share things that have helped us be successful.”

The Pathways grant addresses the three behaviors of focus – physical activity, commercial tobacco prevention, and healthy eating – that reduce risk for serious health conditions though six areas of work, or pathways. The pathways include Community &amp; Social Context, Neighborhood &amp; Physical Environment, Food, Healthcare, Education, and Economic Stability, and strive to improve conditions that are the drivers of health in a community.

Live Well Saline County began in 2009 when a group of community members came together to identify ways to partner to address chronic disease prevention in Saline County. Live Well Saline County has active participants from a variety of organizations with a common interest in healthy living. 

The coalition is comprised of representatives from the following organizations: Tammy Walker Cancer Center, City of Salina, Salina Regional Health Center, Salina Family YMCA, Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina Area United Way, Saline County Health Department, CKF Addiction Treatment, K-State Research &amp; Extension Central District, and Prairieland Market. 

Live Well Saline County partners with many additional organizations in the community to implement programs to improve the health and well-being of the community.

The Live Well Saline County Coalition has been selected as one of 24 grantees for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS)&nbsp;second phase of Pathways to a Healthy Kansas initiative. This includes 12 returning communities that were selected in the initiative's first phase of grants.Pathways to a Healthy Kansas is the largest community grant program ever funded by BCBSKS. Since the initiative began in 2016, BCBSKS has donated more than $11.7 million in grants and assistance to communities throughout Kansas. The Pathways program was created to inspire long-lasting, community-wide health and wellness in communities across Kansas.“We are excited to recognize our second cohort of Pathways grantees,” said Matt All, president and CEO of BCBSKS. “We have been rooted in Kansas for over 75 years and have a commitment to our neighbors to strengthen the health of all Kansans. Through our Pathways initiative, we are making strides toward this goal by helping remove barriers to accessing healthy foods, increasing physical activity and preventing commercial tobacco use. We are thrilled to continue this program with our new Pathways grantees.”The grant funding includes a coordination grant of $200,000 for each community. In addition, Saline County will have the opportunity to apply for non-competitive implementation grants amounting to $300,000, for a total of up to $500,000. Live Well Saline County has designated the Tammy Walker Cancer Center as the fiduciary agent and Daniel Craig, cancer outreach coordinator at Tammy Walker Cancer Center, will serve as the grant manager.“The Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant will enable us to bring everyone together so rather than doing a lot of great individual programs and efforts we can work more collaboratively as a community,” Craig said. “Being part of the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas cohort will provide opportunities for us to learn from other communities and share things that have helped us be successful.”The Pathways grant addresses the three behaviors of focus – physical activity, commercial tobacco prevention, and healthy eating – that reduce risk for serious health conditions though six areas of work, or pathways. The pathways include Community &amp; Social Context, Neighborhood &amp; Physical Environment, Food, Healthcare, Education, and Economic Stability, and strive to improve conditions that are the drivers of health in a community.About Live Well Saline CountyLive Well Saline County began in 2009 when a group of community members came together to identify ways to partner to address chronic disease prevention in Saline County. Live Well Saline County has active participants from a variety of organizations with a common interest in healthy living. The coalition is comprised of representatives from the following organizations: Tammy Walker Cancer Center, City of Salina, Salina Regional Health Center, Salina Family YMCA, Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina Area United Way, Saline County Health Department, CKF Addiction Treatment, K-State Research &amp; Extension Central District, and Prairieland Market. Live Well Saline County partners with many additional organizations in the community to implement programs to improve the health and well-being of the community.

BCBS selects Live Well Saline County Coalition for Pathways program

The Kansas State High School Activities Association released a statement through twitter concerning the upcoming fall sports season.

The KSHSAA believes participation in school and school activities is critical for the students of Kansas and we strive to provide those opportunities for students this fall.

This Friday (7/17) the KSHSAA had planned to distribute considerations and guidance for all fall&nbsp;activities to take place starting August 17. With the announcement today (7/15) from Governor Kelly, we will not release any information Friday. Rather we will go back and look at models and plans that are in place with a delayed start and release information when appropriate.

The Kansas State High School Activities Association released a statement through twitter concerning the upcoming fall sports season.The KSHSAA believes participation in school and school activities is critical for the students of Kansas and we strive to provide those opportunities for students this fall. This Friday (7/17) the KSHSAA had planned to distribute considerations and guidance for all fall&nbsp;activities to take place starting August 17. With the announcement today (7/15) from Governor Kelly, we will not release any information Friday. Rather we will go back and look at models and plans that are in place with a delayed start and release information when appropriate.

KSHSAA releases statement concerning fall sports

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported three additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 101.

Following is the information from the health department concerning the most recent cases.

Positive case No. 99 is a symptomatic female in her 80s with known exposure and is recovering at home.

Positive case No. 100 is a symptomatic female in her 20s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.

Positive case No. 101 is a symptomatic male in his 20s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.

Of the 101 confirmed cases, 90 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines, the health department noted. Additionally, none of the current active cases are hospitalized and the county has reported no COVID-19 related deaths, the health department added.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported three additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 101.Following is the information from the health department concerning the most recent cases.Positive case No. 99 is a symptomatic female in her 80s with known exposure and is recovering at home.Positive case No. 100 is a symptomatic female in her 20s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.Positive case No. 101 is a symptomatic male in his 20s with unknown exposure and is recovering at home.Of the 101 confirmed cases, 90 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines, the health department noted. Additionally, none of the current active cases are hospitalized and the county has reported no COVID-19 related deaths, the health department added.

McPherson County reports three new COVID-19 cases; total at 101

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.

Smoky Hill Museum: A look back at the Indian Burial Pit

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the Fire On The Mountain Tour, featuring The Charlie Daniels Band and the Marshall Tucker Band, is officially canceled." That's the word from Tony's Pizza Events Center.

The tour was scheduled to stop at Tony’s Pizza Events Center on Nov. 19.

On July 6, the world was stunned to learn that Charlie Daniels, the fiery fiddle-playing icon, had passed away from a stroke. Daniels was 83 years old.

Rather than try to replace the venerable band leader, the tour has been cancelled out of respect for Daniels. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Daniels family and his band mates.

Tickets purchased by credit/debit through the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office will automatically be refunded within three to five business days. Tickets purchased with cash must be presented at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office in order to receive a refund. For additional questions call 785-826-7200.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594919365310.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center</figcaption>
 </figure>"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the Fire On The Mountain Tour, featuring The Charlie Daniels Band and the Marshall Tucker Band, is officially canceled." That's the word from Tony's Pizza Events Center.The tour was scheduled to stop at Tony’s Pizza Events Center on Nov. 19.On July 6, the world was stunned to learn that Charlie Daniels, the fiery fiddle-playing icon, had passed away from a stroke. Daniels was 83 years old.Rather than try to replace the venerable band leader, the tour has been cancelled out of respect for Daniels. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Daniels family and his band mates.Tickets purchased by credit/debit through the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office will automatically be refunded within three to five business days. Tickets purchased with cash must be presented at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office in order to receive a refund. For additional questions call 785-826-7200.

Fire On The Mountain Tour canceled after Charlie Daniels' death

Trooper Ben offers a cellphone tip. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:

Trooper Ben offers a cellphone tip. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fvideos%2F3151184308304045%2F&show_text=1&width=267" width="267" height="770" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

An important cellphone tip from Trooper Ben

BROOKVILLE -- A Salina man was injured in a one-vehicle accident just south of Brookville Wednesday evening.

Aaron Thrower, 36, of Salina, was traveling southbound at a high rate of speed in the 3600 block of South Brookville Road at approximately 7:40 p.m. Wednesday when the 2010 Lexus he was driving hit the railroad tracks hard and he lost control of the vehicle, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. The vehicle launched off the tracks and went off the road and into a stand of trees, Soldan said.

Thrower was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extracated, Soldan said. Thrower was transported by Salina EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with what were believed to be non-life-threatening injuries, Soldan added.

The case remains under investigation pending the return of the results of an alcohol test, at which time any requested charges will be determined, Soldan said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594912572922.jpeg" alt="The Lexus ended up upside down in a wooded area south of Brookville. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The Lexus ended up upside down in a wooded area south of Brookville. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>BROOKVILLE -- A Salina man was injured in a one-vehicle accident just south of Brookville Wednesday evening.Aaron Thrower, 36, of Salina, was traveling southbound at a high rate of speed in the 3600 block of South Brookville Road at approximately 7:40 p.m. Wednesday when the 2010 Lexus he was driving hit the railroad tracks hard and he lost control of the vehicle, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. The vehicle launched off the tracks and went off the road and into a stand of trees, Soldan said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594912933412.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thrower was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extracated, Soldan said. Thrower was transported by Salina EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with what were believed to be non-life-threatening injuries, Soldan added.The case remains under investigation pending the return of the results of an alcohol test, at which time any requested charges will be determined, Soldan said.

Salina man injured in one-vehicle accident just south of Brookville

Kroger, parent company of Dillons released new policy Thursday that will mandate masks in its stores beginning July 22.&nbsp; Their statement is below.

"With the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country—as America’s grocer—we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus," the statement said.

"Kroger’s most urgent priority throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been to provide a safe environment for our associates and customers while meeting our societal obligation to provide open stores, ecommerce solutions and an efficiently operating supply chain so that our communities have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials.

"As an employer, grocery provider and community partner, we have a responsibility to help keep our associates, customers and communities safe. According to the CDC, wearing a facial covering, combined with social distancing and frequent handwashing, has been scientifically proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask when shopping in our stores, joining our associates who continue to wear masks. We are taking this extra step now because we recognize additional precautions are needed to protect our country.

"We respect and acknowledge that some customers, due to medical reasons, may not be able to wear a mask (small children are exempt). We encourage those customers to consider an alternative option like a face shield or facial covering. If they’re unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, we request that they use our ecommerce services like pickup or delivery. To support all households during the COVID-19 pandemic, our grocery pickup service remains free (generally a $4.95 fee).

"We thank our associates and customers for partnering with us to slow down the spread of COVID-19."

Kroger, parent company of Dillons released new policy Thursday that will mandate masks in its stores beginning July 22.&nbsp; Their statement is below."With the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country—as America’s grocer—we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus," the statement said."Kroger’s most urgent priority throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been to provide a safe environment for our associates and customers while meeting our societal obligation to provide open stores, ecommerce solutions and an efficiently operating supply chain so that our communities have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials."As an employer, grocery provider and community partner, we have a responsibility to help keep our associates, customers and communities safe. According to the CDC, wearing a facial covering, combined with social distancing and frequent handwashing, has been scientifically proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask when shopping in our stores, joining our associates who continue to wear masks. We are taking this extra step now because we recognize additional precautions are needed to protect our country."We respect and acknowledge that some customers, due to medical reasons, may not be able to wear a mask (small children are exempt). We encourage those customers to consider an alternative option like a face shield or facial covering. If they’re unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, we request that they use our ecommerce services like pickup or delivery. To support all households during the COVID-19 pandemic, our grocery pickup service remains free (generally a $4.95 fee)."We thank our associates and customers for partnering with us to slow down the spread of COVID-19."

All Kroger stores to mandate masks starting July 22

Salina police are investigating the theft of two catalytic converters from pickups at an auto and truck repair business.

The incident occurred between 7 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. Wednesday at Oard's Auto and Truck Repair Services, 2259 Centennial, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. A Ford F250 pickup owned by OCCK, Inc., had been at the business to have some work done, Forrester noted. When OCCK personnel arrived to retrieve the pickup and started it, the exhaust was very loud, according to Forrester. A check revealed that someone had cut the catalytic converter off the pickup, he added.

Forrester explained that Oard's personnel checked the other vehicles on their property and found another Ford F250 belonging to Oard's that was also missing a catalytic converter.

Total loss was estimated at approximately $700, he noted.

Salina police are investigating the theft of two catalytic converters from pickups at an auto and truck repair business.The incident occurred between 7 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. Wednesday at Oard's Auto and Truck Repair Services, 2259 Centennial, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. A Ford F250 pickup owned by OCCK, Inc., had been at the business to have some work done, Forrester noted. When OCCK personnel arrived to retrieve the pickup and started it, the exhaust was very loud, according to Forrester. A check revealed that someone had cut the catalytic converter off the pickup, he added.Forrester explained that Oard's personnel checked the other vehicles on their property and found another Ford F250 belonging to Oard's that was also missing a catalytic converter.Total loss was estimated at approximately $700, he noted.

Catalytic converters stolen from two pickups at repair shop

It looks to be a lovely day, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita.

Morning scattered showers and thunderstorms will be likely in south-central Kansas this morning. As the afternoon progresses, the showers and thunderstorm activity will become more isolated and move into southeast Kansas, NWS reported. 

Afternoon highs will be seasonable or just a little below normal for this time of year, NWS noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594902983642.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It looks to be a lovely day, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita.Morning scattered showers and thunderstorms will be likely in south-central Kansas this morning. As the afternoon progresses, the showers and thunderstorm activity will become more isolated and move into southeast Kansas, NWS reported. Afternoon highs will be seasonable or just a little below normal for this time of year, NWS noted.

NWS: Seasonable temperatures, bit of rain to the south

The&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation will temporarily close Interstate 135 (I-135) on Friday from mile marker 58-60 for demolition of the Avenue A bridge. 

The bridge is located approximately one-half mile south of the U.S. Highway 56 exit in McPherson County.

Northbound and southbound I-135 will close at 7 p.m. Friday. Southbound I-135 will reopen at 6 a.m. on Saturday and northbound I-135 will reopen by 7 p.m. Saturday, weather permitting.&nbsp; Traffic will follow the signed detour through McPherson via U.S. 56, Main Street, and Kansas Highway 61.&nbsp;

Dondlinger and Sons Construction Co. Inc. of Wichita is the primary contractor for this $2.3 million project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594858357404.jpeg" alt="Map courtesy KDOT" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation will temporarily close Interstate 135 (I-135) on Friday from mile marker 58-60 for demolition of the Avenue A bridge. The bridge is located approximately one-half mile south of the U.S. Highway 56 exit in McPherson County.Northbound and southbound I-135 will close at 7 p.m. Friday. Southbound I-135 will reopen at 6 a.m. on Saturday and northbound I-135 will reopen by 7 p.m. Saturday, weather permitting.&nbsp; Traffic will follow the signed detour through McPherson via U.S. 56, Main Street, and Kansas Highway 61.&nbsp;Dondlinger and Sons Construction Co. Inc. of Wichita is the primary contractor for this $2.3 million project.

I-135 to be closed in McPherson County for bridge replacement

TOPEKA&nbsp;– State Librarian Eric Norris announced Wednesday the 15th annual selection of Kansas Notable Books. 

The fifteen books feature quality titles with wide public appeal, written either by a Kansan, set in Kansas, or about a Kansas related topic.

“I am proud to present the 2020 Kansas Notable Book list. This year’s list covers a wide swath of our cultural and natural history,” said Eric Norris, State Librarian. “The rich array of works on this year’s list examine petroglyphs across the prairie and go on fantastical high seas adventures with pirates; explore the careers of academics, athletes, and aviators; and consider the importance of family from the viewpoint of a young Exoduster in the 1880s and as a world traveler in a present day small western Kansas town. This year’s list will both educate and entertain.&nbsp; I encourage every Kansan to contact their local public library and celebrate the artists and artistry of Kansas.”

A committee of librarians, academics, and historians nominated titles from a list of eligible books, and state librarian Eric Norris selected the final list. In 2006, the first Kansas Notable Books list was announced. Since then more than 200 books have been recognized for their contribution to Kansas literary heritage.

Kansas Notable Books is a project of the Kansas Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book is a program at the State Library of Kansas and the state affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book exists to highlight the state’s literary heritage and foster an interest in books, reading, and libraries.

For more information about Kansas Notable Books, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F2020KNB&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C67267ddba87d4068d8cc08d828e1a11b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304297729475882&amp;sdata=3%2FS3QBJ4FFJP2X0XeSGsjTj5folvuEYiVpQBj3N%2FFrE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://kslib.info/2020KNB</a>, call 785-296-3296, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.

Birds, Bones, and Beetles: The Improbable Career and Remarkable Legacy of University of Kansas Naturalist Charles D. Bunker  by Charles H. Warner&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;University Press of Kansas&nbsp;

A Constellation of Roses  by Miranda&nbsp;Asebedo&nbsp;(Manhattan)&nbsp;HarperTeen&nbsp;

Crumbled! (The Misadventures of&nbsp;Nobbin&nbsp;Swill)  by Lisa&nbsp;Harkrader&nbsp;(Tonganoxie)&nbsp;Yellow Jacket&nbsp;

Follow Me Down to Nicodemus Town  by A.&nbsp;LaFaye&nbsp;(Glen Carbon IL), illustrations by Nicole&nbsp;Tadgell&nbsp;(Oxford MA)&nbsp;Albert Whitman &amp; Company&nbsp;

Headwinds: A Memoir  by Edna Bell-Pearson&nbsp;(Overland Park)&nbsp;Meadowlark&nbsp;

The Healer's Daughter: A Novel  by Charlotte Hinger&nbsp;(Hoxie)&nbsp;Five Star Publishing&nbsp;

How to Be a Family: The Year I Dragged My Kids Around the World to Find a New Way to Be Together  by Dan&nbsp;Kois&nbsp;(Arlington VA)&nbsp;Little,&nbsp;Brown&nbsp;and Company&nbsp;

Journey to a Promised Land: A Story of the Exodusters (I Am America) by Allison&nbsp;Lassieur&nbsp;(Schenectady NY)&nbsp;Jolly Fish Press&nbsp;

Kansas City Chiefs Legends: The Greatest Coaches, Players and Front Office Execs in Chiefs History  by Jeff Deters&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;Deters&nbsp;Publications&nbsp;

A Perfect Silhouette  by Judith Miller&nbsp;(Overland Park)&nbsp;Bethany House Publishers&nbsp;

Petroglyphs of the Kansas Smoky Hills  by Rex C. Buchanan&nbsp;(Lawrence), Burke W. Griggs&nbsp;(Lawrence), Joshua L.&nbsp;Svaty&nbsp;(Ellsworth)&nbsp;University Press of Kansas&nbsp;

The Reckless Oath We Made: A Novel  by Bryn Greenwood&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;G.P. Putnam’s Sons&nbsp;

Steel Tide: A&nbsp;Seafire&nbsp;Novel  by Natalie C. Parker&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;Razorbill&nbsp;

The Topeka School: A Novel  by Ben Lerner&nbsp;(Brooklyn&nbsp;NY)&nbsp;Farrar,&nbsp;Straus&nbsp;and Giroux&nbsp;

What Color Is Night?&nbsp; by Grant Snider&nbsp;(Wichita)&nbsp;Chronicle Books

To learn more about the State Library of Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C67267ddba87d4068d8cc08d828e1a11b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304297729475882&amp;sdata=cYYzO2%2B0utWIbOBq3qOmKtlCO%2Fvi3azh2OXjYdXV4Tc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kslib.info</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580494291851.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– State Librarian Eric Norris announced Wednesday the 15th annual selection of Kansas Notable Books. The fifteen books feature quality titles with wide public appeal, written either by a Kansan, set in Kansas, or about a Kansas related topic.“I am proud to present the 2020 Kansas Notable Book list. This year’s list covers a wide swath of our cultural and natural history,” said Eric Norris, State Librarian. “The rich array of works on this year’s list examine petroglyphs across the prairie and go on fantastical high seas adventures with pirates; explore the careers of academics, athletes, and aviators; and consider the importance of family from the viewpoint of a young Exoduster in the 1880s and as a world traveler in a present day small western Kansas town. This year’s list will both educate and entertain.&nbsp; I encourage every Kansan to contact their local public library and celebrate the artists and artistry of Kansas.”A committee of librarians, academics, and historians nominated titles from a list of eligible books, and state librarian Eric Norris selected the final list. In 2006, the first Kansas Notable Books list was announced. Since then more than 200 books have been recognized for their contribution to Kansas literary heritage.Kansas Notable Books is a project of the Kansas Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book is a program at the State Library of Kansas and the state affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book exists to highlight the state’s literary heritage and foster an interest in books, reading, and libraries.For more information about Kansas Notable Books, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F2020KNB&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C67267ddba87d4068d8cc08d828e1a11b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304297729475882&amp;sdata=3%2FS3QBJ4FFJP2X0XeSGsjTj5folvuEYiVpQBj3N%2FFrE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://kslib.info/2020KNB</a>, call 785-296-3296, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.2020 Kansas Notable BooksBirds, Bones, and Beetles: The Improbable Career and Remarkable Legacy of University of Kansas Naturalist Charles D. Bunker  by Charles H. Warner&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;University Press of Kansas&nbsp;A Constellation of Roses  by Miranda&nbsp;Asebedo&nbsp;(Manhattan)&nbsp;HarperTeen&nbsp;Crumbled! (The Misadventures of&nbsp;Nobbin&nbsp;Swill)  by Lisa&nbsp;Harkrader&nbsp;(Tonganoxie)&nbsp;Yellow Jacket&nbsp;Follow Me Down to Nicodemus Town  by A.&nbsp;LaFaye&nbsp;(Glen Carbon IL), illustrations by Nicole&nbsp;Tadgell&nbsp;(Oxford MA)&nbsp;Albert Whitman &amp; Company&nbsp;Headwinds: A Memoir  by Edna Bell-Pearson&nbsp;(Overland Park)&nbsp;Meadowlark&nbsp;The Healer's Daughter: A Novel  by Charlotte Hinger&nbsp;(Hoxie)&nbsp;Five Star Publishing&nbsp;How to Be a Family: The Year I Dragged My Kids Around the World to Find a New Way to Be Together  by Dan&nbsp;Kois&nbsp;(Arlington VA)&nbsp;Little,&nbsp;Brown&nbsp;and Company&nbsp;Journey to a Promised Land: A Story of the Exodusters (I Am America) by Allison&nbsp;Lassieur&nbsp;(Schenectady NY)&nbsp;Jolly Fish Press&nbsp;Kansas City Chiefs Legends: The Greatest Coaches, Players and Front Office Execs in Chiefs History  by Jeff Deters&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;Deters&nbsp;Publications&nbsp;A Perfect Silhouette  by Judith Miller&nbsp;(Overland Park)&nbsp;Bethany House Publishers&nbsp;Petroglyphs of the Kansas Smoky Hills  by Rex C. Buchanan&nbsp;(Lawrence), Burke W. Griggs&nbsp;(Lawrence), Joshua L.&nbsp;Svaty&nbsp;(Ellsworth)&nbsp;University Press of Kansas&nbsp;The Reckless Oath We Made: A Novel  by Bryn Greenwood&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;G.P. Putnam’s Sons&nbsp;Steel Tide: A&nbsp;Seafire&nbsp;Novel  by Natalie C. Parker&nbsp;(Lawrence)&nbsp;Razorbill&nbsp;The Topeka School: A Novel  by Ben Lerner&nbsp;(Brooklyn&nbsp;NY)&nbsp;Farrar,&nbsp;Straus&nbsp;and Giroux&nbsp;What Color Is Night?&nbsp; by Grant Snider&nbsp;(Wichita)&nbsp;Chronicle BooksTo learn more about the State Library of Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C67267ddba87d4068d8cc08d828e1a11b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304297729475882&amp;sdata=cYYzO2%2B0utWIbOBq3qOmKtlCO%2Fvi3azh2OXjYdXV4Tc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kslib.info</a>.

'Petroglyphs of the Kansas Smoky Hills' among Kansas Notable Books

A water fluoridation lawsuit is the topic of the next Community Health Seminar.

The seminar is scheduled for 7-8:30 p.m. July 23 in the Ashby House office building, 142 South Seventh Street. There is off-street parking on the north side of the building. The seminar is open to the public at no charge, however, donations will be accepted.

The seminar will take a look at "Health Freedom Groups Winning Water Fluoridation Lawsuit Against EPA," according to information from Deb and John Boesen, hosts of the seminar.

A water fluoridation lawsuit is the topic of the next Community Health Seminar.The seminar is scheduled for 7-8:30 p.m. July 23 in the Ashby House office building, 142 South Seventh Street. There is off-street parking on the north side of the building. The seminar is open to the public at no charge, however, donations will be accepted.The seminar will take a look at "Health Freedom Groups Winning Water Fluoridation Lawsuit Against EPA," according to information from Deb and John Boesen, hosts of the seminar.

Water fluoridation lawsuit topic of next Community Health Seminar

Today is Thursday, July 16, the 198th day of 2020. There are 168 days left in the year. 

On July 16, 1945, the United States exploded its first experimental atomic bomb in the desert of Alamogordo, New Mexico; the same day, the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis left Mare Island Naval Shipyard in California on a secret mission to deliver atomic bomb components to Tinian Island in the Marianas. 

In 1557, Anne of Cleves, who was briefly the fourth wife of England's King Henry VIII, died in London at age 41. 

In 1790, a site along the Potomac River was designated the permanent seat of the United States government; the area became Washington, D.C. 

In 1862, Flag Officer David G. Farragut became the first rear admiral in the United States Navy. 

In 1964, as he accepted the Republican presidential nomination in San Francisco, Barry M. Goldwater declared that "extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice" and that "moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue." 

In 1969, Apollo 11 blasted off from Cape Kennedy on the first manned mission to the surface of the moon. 

In 1973, during the Senate Watergate hearings, former White House aide Alexander P. Butterfield publicly revealed the existence of President Richard Nixon's secret taping system. 

In 1980, former California Gov. Ronald Reagan won the Republican presidential nomination at the party's convention in Detroit. 

In 1994, the first of 21 pieces of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 smashed into Jupiter, to the joy of astronomers awaiting the celestial fireworks. 

In 1999, John F. Kennedy Jr., his wife, Carolyn, and her sister, Lauren Bessette, died when their single-engine plane, piloted by Kennedy, plunged into the Atlantic Ocean near Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. 

In 2002, the Irish Republican Army issued an unprecedented apology for the deaths of "noncombatants" over 30 years of violence in Northern Ireland. 

In 2004, Martha Stewart was sentenced to five months in prison and five months of home confinement by a federal judge in New York for lying about a stock sale. 

In 2008, Florida resident Casey Anthony, whose 2-year-old daughter, Caylee, had been missing a month, was arrested on charges of child neglect, making false official statements and obstructing a criminal investigation. (Casey Anthony was later acquitted at trial of murdering Caylee, whose skeletal remains were found in December 2008; she was convicted of lying to police.) 

Ten years ago: Retired intelligence analyst Kendall Myers, the 73-year-old great grandson of Alexander Graham Bell, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for quietly spying for Cuba for nearly a third of a century from inside the State Department; his wife, Gwendolyn, was sentenced to 5 1/2 years. American sprinters who'd been stripped of their 2000 Olympics relay medals because teammate Marion Jones was doping won an appeal to have them restored.

Five years ago: A gunman unleashed a barrage of fire at a recruiting center and another U.S. military site a few miles apart in Chattanooga, Tennessee, killing four Marines and a sailor before he was shot to death by police; authorities identified the gunman as Kuwaiti-born Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez of Tennessee. A jury in Centennial, Colorado, convicted James Holmes of 165 counts of murder, attempted murder and other charges in the 2012 Aurora movie theater rampage that left 12 people dead.

One year ago: Retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, who had unexpectedly emerged as the court's leading liberal, died in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at the age of 99 after suffering a stroke. The House voted to condemn what it called "racist comments" by President Donald Trump aimed at four congresswomen of color, despite Trump's insistence that he didn't have "a racist bone in my body." After years of silence on the case, federal prosecutors said they would not be bringing charges against a white New York City police officer in the 2014 chokehold death of a Black man, Eric Garner. A federal judge ordered singer R. Kelly to be held without bond, after a prosecutor warned that the singer accused of having sex with minors would pose an extreme danger to young girls if he were to be set free. HBO's "Game of Thrones" picked up a record-setting 32 Emmy nominations for its eighth and final season. South African musician Johnny Clegg, who had performed in defiance of apartheid, died at the age of 66.

Today's Birthdays: Former U.S. Attorney General Dick Thornburgh is 88. Soul singer William Bell is 81. International Tennis Hall of Famer Margaret Court is 78. College Football Hall of Famer and football coach Jimmy Johnson is 77. Violinist Pinchas Zukerman is 72. Actor-singer Ruben Blades is 72. Rock composer-musician Stewart Copeland is 68. Playwright Tony Kushner is 64. Actress Faye Grant is 63. Dancer Michael Flatley is 62. Actress Phoebe Cates is 57. Actor Paul Hipp is 57. Actor Daryl "Chill" Mitchell is 55. Actor-comedian Will Ferrell is 53. Actor Jonathan Adams is 53. College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Barry Sanders is 52. Actress Rain Pryor is 51. Actor Corey Feldman is 49. Rock musician Ed Kowalczyk (Live) is 49. Rock singer Ryan McCombs (Drowning Pool) is 46. Actress Jayma Mays is 41. Actress AnnaLynne McCord is 33. Actor-singer James Maslow is 30. Actor Mark Indelicato is 26. Pop singer-musician Luke Hemmings (5 Seconds to Summer) is 24.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, July 16, the 198th day of 2020. There are 168 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On July 16, 1945, the United States exploded its first experimental atomic bomb in the desert of Alamogordo, New Mexico; the same day, the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis left Mare Island Naval Shipyard in California on a secret mission to deliver atomic bomb components to Tinian Island in the Marianas. On this date: In 1557, Anne of Cleves, who was briefly the fourth wife of England's King Henry VIII, died in London at age 41. In 1790, a site along the Potomac River was designated the permanent seat of the United States government; the area became Washington, D.C. In 1862, Flag Officer David G. Farragut became the first rear admiral in the United States Navy. In 1964, as he accepted the Republican presidential nomination in San Francisco, Barry M. Goldwater declared that "extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice" and that "moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue." In 1969, Apollo 11 blasted off from Cape Kennedy on the first manned mission to the surface of the moon. In 1973, during the Senate Watergate hearings, former White House aide Alexander P. Butterfield publicly revealed the existence of President Richard Nixon's secret taping system. In 1980, former California Gov. Ronald Reagan won the Republican presidential nomination at the party's convention in Detroit. In 1994, the first of 21 pieces of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 smashed into Jupiter, to the joy of astronomers awaiting the celestial fireworks. In 1999, John F. Kennedy Jr., his wife, Carolyn, and her sister, Lauren Bessette, died when their single-engine plane, piloted by Kennedy, plunged into the Atlantic Ocean near Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. In 2002, the Irish Republican Army issued an unprecedented apology for the deaths of "noncombatants" over 30 years of violence in Northern Ireland. In 2004, Martha Stewart was sentenced to five months in prison and five months of home confinement by a federal judge in New York for lying about a stock sale. In 2008, Florida resident Casey Anthony, whose 2-year-old daughter, Caylee, had been missing a month, was arrested on charges of child neglect, making false official statements and obstructing a criminal investigation. (Casey Anthony was later acquitted at trial of murdering Caylee, whose skeletal remains were found in December 2008; she was convicted of lying to police.) Ten years ago: Retired intelligence analyst Kendall Myers, the 73-year-old great grandson of Alexander Graham Bell, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for quietly spying for Cuba for nearly a third of a century from inside the State Department; his wife, Gwendolyn, was sentenced to 5 1/2 years. American sprinters who'd been stripped of their 2000 Olympics relay medals because teammate Marion Jones was doping won an appeal to have them restored. Five years ago: A gunman unleashed a barrage of fire at a recruiting center and another U.S. military site a few miles apart in Chattanooga, Tennessee, killing four Marines and a sailor before he was shot to death by police; authorities identified the gunman as Kuwaiti-born Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez of Tennessee. A jury in Centennial, Colorado, convicted James Holmes of 165 counts of murder, attempted murder and other charges in the 2012 Aurora movie theater rampage that left 12 people dead. One year ago: Retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, who had unexpectedly emerged as the court's leading liberal, died in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at the age of 99 after suffering a stroke. The House voted to condemn what it called "racist comments" by President Donald Trump aimed at four congresswomen of color, despite Trump's insistence that he didn't have "a racist bone in my body." After years of silence on the case, federal prosecutors said they would not be bringing charges against a white New York City police officer in the 2014 chokehold death of a Black man, Eric Garner. A federal judge ordered singer R. Kelly to be held without bond, after a prosecutor warned that the singer accused of having sex with minors would pose an extreme danger to young girls if he were to be set free. HBO's "Game of Thrones" picked up a record-setting 32 Emmy nominations for its eighth and final season. South African musician Johnny Clegg, who had performed in defiance of apartheid, died at the age of 66. Today's Birthdays: Former U.S. Attorney General Dick Thornburgh is 88. Soul singer William Bell is 81. International Tennis Hall of Famer Margaret Court is 78. College Football Hall of Famer and football coach Jimmy Johnson is 77. Violinist Pinchas Zukerman is 72. Actor-singer Ruben Blades is 72. Rock composer-musician Stewart Copeland is 68. Playwright Tony Kushner is 64. Actress Faye Grant is 63. Dancer Michael Flatley is 62. Actress Phoebe Cates is 57. Actor Paul Hipp is 57. Actor Daryl "Chill" Mitchell is 55. Actor-comedian Will Ferrell is 53. Actor Jonathan Adams is 53. College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Barry Sanders is 52. Actress Rain Pryor is 51. Actor Corey Feldman is 49. Rock musician Ed Kowalczyk (Live) is 49. Rock singer Ryan McCombs (Drowning Pool) is 46. Actress Jayma Mays is 41. Actress AnnaLynne McCord is 33. Actor-singer James Maslow is 30. Actor Mark Indelicato is 26. Pop singer-musician Luke Hemmings (5 Seconds to Summer) is 24.

Today in History -- July 16

TOPEKA — Sixteen schools are joining the Kansans Can School Redesign Project as the Apollo II cohort, the fifth phase of the project.

The names of the schools and districts were announced during the Kansas State Board of Education meeting Tuesday. The announcement brings the total number of schools taking part in the Kansans Can School Redesign Project to 182 and the number of districts participating to 73.

In order to be considered for the project, districts must be able and willing to completely redesign one elementary and/or one secondary school around the vision, outcomes and the definition of a successful high school graduate&nbsp;(see background information at the end of release). Each district also must be willing to launch a new school redesign in the 2021-2022 school year and be willing to serve as a demonstration school/district for others in Kansas to study, learn and visit.

Seven of the 10 districts that are taking part in the latest phase, Apollo II, are new to the redesign project. Three of the school districts – Emporia Unified School District 253, Hutchinson USD 308 and Winfield USD 465 - already have other schools participating in earlier phases and are now adding new schools.

The schools, along with their districts, taking part in Apollo II are:

The State Board of Education in October 2015 announced a new vision for education in Kansas: Kansas leads the world in the success of each student. To help measure the success of the new vision, the board established five outcomes — social-emotional growth; kindergarten readiness; Individual Plan of Study (IPS); high school graduation rates; and postsecondary completion/attendance.

The board also defined a successful high school graduate as someone who has the academic preparation, cognitive preparation, technical skills, employability skills and civic engagement to be successful in postsecondary education, in the attainment of an industry recognized certification or in the workforce, without the need for remediation.

The Kansans Can School Redesign Project was announced in 2017 in support of Kansas’ vision for education – Kansas leads the world in the success of each student. The first seven school districts to take part in the first phase, Mercury 7, were announced in August 2017. The other cohorts include Gemini I, Gemini II and Apollo.

For more information about the Kansans Can Redesign Project, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/Communications-and-Recognition-Programs/Vision-Kansans-Can/School-Redesign" target="_blank">https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/Communications-and-Recognition-Programs/Vision-Kansans-Can/School-Redesign</a>.

TOPEKA — Sixteen schools are joining the Kansans Can School Redesign Project as the Apollo II cohort, the fifth phase of the project.The names of the schools and districts were announced during the Kansas State Board of Education meeting Tuesday. The announcement brings the total number of schools taking part in the Kansans Can School Redesign Project to 182 and the number of districts participating to 73.In order to be considered for the project, districts must be able and willing to completely redesign one elementary and/or one secondary school around the vision, outcomes and the definition of a successful high school graduate&nbsp;(see background information at the end of release). Each district also must be willing to launch a new school redesign in the 2021-2022 school year and be willing to serve as a demonstration school/district for others in Kansas to study, learn and visit.Seven of the 10 districts that are taking part in the latest phase, Apollo II, are new to the redesign project. Three of the school districts – Emporia Unified School District 253, Hutchinson USD 308 and Winfield USD 465 - already have other schools participating in earlier phases and are now adding new schools.The schools, along with their districts, taking part in Apollo II are:<ul>
 <li>Emporia Middle School, Emporia USD 253.</li><li>Village Elementary School, Emporia USD 253.</li><li>Walnut Elementary School, Emporia USD 253.</li><li>Central Heights High School, Wamego Unified School District 288.</li><li>Lincoln Elementary School, Hutchinson USD 308.</li><li>Wamego High School, Wamego USD 320.</li><li>Lincoln Elementary School, Clay County USD 379.</li><li>Marshall Elementary School, Eureka USD 389.</li><li>Marais des Cygnes Valley Elementary School, Marais des Cygnes USD 456.</li><li>Marais des Cygnes Valley Middle School, Marais des Cygnes USD 456.</li><li>Marais des Cygnes Valley High School, Marais des Cygnes USD 456.</li><li>Winfield High School, Winfield USD 465.</li><li>Lincoln Elementary School, Hays USD 489.</li><li>Flint Hills Primary School, Flint Hills USD 492</li><li>Flint Hills Intermediate School, Flint Hills USD 492.</li><li>Flint Hills Middle and High School, Flint Hills USD 492. </li>
 </ul>The State Board of Education in October 2015 announced a new vision for education in Kansas: Kansas leads the world in the success of each student. To help measure the success of the new vision, the board established five outcomes — social-emotional growth; kindergarten readiness; Individual Plan of Study (IPS); high school graduation rates; and postsecondary completion/attendance.The board also defined a successful high school graduate as someone who has the academic preparation, cognitive preparation, technical skills, employability skills and civic engagement to be successful in postsecondary education, in the attainment of an industry recognized certification or in the workforce, without the need for remediation.The Kansans Can School Redesign Project was announced in 2017 in support of Kansas’ vision for education – Kansas leads the world in the success of each student. The first seven school districts to take part in the first phase, Mercury 7, were announced in August 2017. The other cohorts include Gemini I, Gemini II and Apollo.For more information about the Kansans Can Redesign Project, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/Communications-and-Recognition-Programs/Vision-Kansans-Can/School-Redesign" target="_blank">https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/Communications-and-Recognition-Programs/Vision-Kansans-Can/School-Redesign</a>.

Clay County USD 379 school 1 of 16 joining Apollo II cohort

The Kansas Libraries CARES grant application is now open. 

The CARES grant is open from now until July 31, 2020. Funding for this grant comes to the State Library from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.&nbsp; This non-competitive grant is open to Kansas public libraries. Application and guidelines can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F1451%2FLSTA-CARES-Covid-19&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d6c20b1e7204c5fd96908d828f5204f%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304380560470032&amp;sdata=dipFSfkxI1R3Cfu1%2F9L9UghGLnpRwWIKI1CYAtsi06A%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://kslib.info/1451/LSTA-CARES-Covid-19</a>.

The purpose of the funding will be to help libraries address efforts to prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19. The application is relatively simple and the list of approved purchases is long and expansive.&nbsp; The State Library wants to make this process as easy possible. Libraries will be allowed to include purchases from April 21, 2020 through Sept. 30, 2020.

Please note, this application has an abbreviated grant timeline.

The application submission deadline will be July 31 at 5 p.m. CST.

•Sept. 30, 2020: Libraries should make every effort to expend the full amount awarded and according to grant guidelines by this date.

•Oct. 31, 2020: Libraries must submit documentation of purchase and complete a brief report via a form provided by the State Library of Kansas.

This grant opportunity for public libraries is made possible by the Institute of Museum and Library Services federal CARES Act.

For more information, visit the State Library of Kansas website:

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F1451%2FLSTA-CARES-Covid-19&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d6c20b1e7204c5fd96908d828f5204f%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304380560480021&amp;sdata=3OuSgE1qAruvSxdkClYkBsPEhpvuh8e6nG69FPigY9Q%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://kslib.info/1451/LSTA-CARES-Covid-19</a>

The Kansas Libraries CARES grant application is now open. The CARES grant is open from now until July 31, 2020. Funding for this grant comes to the State Library from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.&nbsp; This non-competitive grant is open to Kansas public libraries. Application and guidelines can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F1451%2FLSTA-CARES-Covid-19&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d6c20b1e7204c5fd96908d828f5204f%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304380560470032&amp;sdata=dipFSfkxI1R3Cfu1%2F9L9UghGLnpRwWIKI1CYAtsi06A%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://kslib.info/1451/LSTA-CARES-Covid-19</a>.The purpose of the funding will be to help libraries address efforts to prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19. The application is relatively simple and the list of approved purchases is long and expansive.&nbsp; The State Library wants to make this process as easy possible. Libraries will be allowed to include purchases from April 21, 2020 through Sept. 30, 2020.Please note, this application has an abbreviated grant timeline.The application submission deadline will be July 31 at 5 p.m. CST.Timeline:•July 31, 2020: Application Deadline•Aug. 2020: Funding Dispersed•Sept. 30, 2020: Libraries should make every effort to expend the full amount awarded and according to grant guidelines by this date.•Oct. 31, 2020: Libraries must submit documentation of purchase and complete a brief report via a form provided by the State Library of Kansas.This grant opportunity for public libraries is made possible by the Institute of Museum and Library Services federal CARES Act.For more information, visit the State Library of Kansas website:<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2F1451%2FLSTA-CARES-Covid-19&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d6c20b1e7204c5fd96908d828f5204f%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637304380560480021&amp;sdata=3OuSgE1qAruvSxdkClYkBsPEhpvuh8e6nG69FPigY9Q%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://kslib.info/1451/LSTA-CARES-Covid-19</a>

State library taking applications for CARES grant funding

The American Red Cross Pillowcase Project is going virtual.

The Pillowcase Project is a free preparedness program for children in grades 3 through 5. The program aims to increase awareness and understanding of natural hazards and teach safety and emotional coping skills, as well as preparedness. 

The program is scheduled for 4 p.m. Thursday.&nbsp;Additional classes will be held on Thursdays in July and August, using Microsoft Teams. 

Sign-up your 3rd through 5th graders now. Each child needs to have a computer with internet access. If you sign-up, an email with additional instructions will be sent to you, according to information from the American Red Cross. Please email <a href="mailto:KSOKPrep@redcross.org">KSOKPrep@redcross.org</a> to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594854828745.png" alt="Image courtesy American Red Cross" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy American Red Cross</figcaption>
 </figure>The American Red Cross Pillowcase Project is going virtual.The Pillowcase Project is a free preparedness program for children in grades 3 through 5. The program aims to increase awareness and understanding of natural hazards and teach safety and emotional coping skills, as well as preparedness. The program is scheduled for 4 p.m. Thursday.&nbsp;Additional classes will be held on Thursdays in July and August, using Microsoft Teams. Sign-up your 3rd through 5th graders now. Each child needs to have a computer with internet access. If you sign-up, an email with additional instructions will be sent to you, according to information from the American Red Cross. Please email <a href="mailto:KSOKPrep@redcross.org">KSOKPrep@redcross.org</a> to register.

Red Cross Pillowcase Project set for Thursday afternoon

Salina’s popular Comic Con returns to Tony’s Pizza Events Center this Saturday and Sunday. 

This year’s event will be held in the arena to allow for more space in-between vendors and to give guests plenty of room to practice social distancing.

Vendors will be on hand for attendees who want to buy, sell, and trade comic books, toys and pop culture memorabilia. In addition to vendors, costumed characters from 501st Legion, a Star Wars fan club will be on hand for photo opportunities, as well as replica cars from TV’s Supernatural and the Resident Evil video game series.

A cosplay (character costume) contest will be held each afternoon at 3 p.m. Saturday’s contest is for ages 14 and up; Sunday’s contest is ages 13 and younger. Cash prizes will be awarded for the best cosplay each day.

Outside of the events center, the American Red Cross will conduct a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All donors will receive a limited-edition Wonder Woman 1984 t-shirt courtesy of the American Red Cross, while supplies last.

New to the event this year are enhanced health and safety measures which Tony’s Pizza Events Center has put in place to keep its guests and staff safe:

• All staff members, vendors or performers will be temperature checked before being allowed to enter the building.

• All staff members will wear masks or face shields during events.

• All guests are required to wear masks, per City/County ordinance.

• Thorough disinfection of high-touch surfaces during the event.

• Line cues will display reminders to social distance from other guests.

• Concession stands now have plexiglass barriers between staff and guests.

“We want our guests and our employees alike to know that every precautionary measure we’ve implemented is to ensure their health and safety while they are at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center,” said Susan Trafton, Spectra’s General Manager at Tony’s Pizza Events Center. “Our goal is to always give our guests an enjoyable, straightforward, familiar—and above all, safe—experience.” 

The Salina Comic Con runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Saturday tickets are $10, and Sunday tickets are $8. Kids ages 8 and under are free with a paying adult.

Tickets for Salina Comic Con are available at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office, online at <a href="http://tonyspizzaeventscenter.com">tonyspizzaeventscenter.com</a>, or by calling 888-826-SHOW (7469).

In accordance with the guidance and recommendations set forth by the CDC and local health officials, we respectfully request that the following guests not attend events at Tony's Pizza Events Center:

• Guests who are feeling sick or experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms (including fever, cough and shortness of breath);

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594853874066.jpeg" alt="Salina Comic Con is set for this weekend at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, additional safety measures will be taken. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Tony's Pizza Events Center" />
 <figcaption>Salina Comic Con is set for this weekend at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, additional safety measures will be taken. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Tony's Pizza Events Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina’s popular Comic Con returns to Tony’s Pizza Events Center this Saturday and Sunday. This year’s event will be held in the arena to allow for more space in-between vendors and to give guests plenty of room to practice social distancing.Vendors will be on hand for attendees who want to buy, sell, and trade comic books, toys and pop culture memorabilia. In addition to vendors, costumed characters from 501st Legion, a Star Wars fan club will be on hand for photo opportunities, as well as replica cars from TV’s Supernatural and the Resident Evil video game series.A cosplay (character costume) contest will be held each afternoon at 3 p.m. Saturday’s contest is for ages 14 and up; Sunday’s contest is ages 13 and younger. Cash prizes will be awarded for the best cosplay each day.Outside of the events center, the American Red Cross will conduct a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All donors will receive a limited-edition Wonder Woman 1984 t-shirt courtesy of the American Red Cross, while supplies last.New to the event this year are enhanced health and safety measures which Tony’s Pizza Events Center has put in place to keep its guests and staff safe:• All staff members, vendors or performers will be temperature checked before being allowed to enter the building.• All staff members will wear masks or face shields during events.• All guests are required to wear masks, per City/County ordinance.• Thorough disinfection of high-touch surfaces during the event.• Line cues will display reminders to social distance from other guests.• Concession stands now have plexiglass barriers between staff and guests.“We want our guests and our employees alike to know that every precautionary measure we’ve implemented is to ensure their health and safety while they are at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center,” said Susan Trafton, Spectra’s General Manager at Tony’s Pizza Events Center. “Our goal is to always give our guests an enjoyable, straightforward, familiar—and above all, safe—experience.” The Salina Comic Con runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Saturday tickets are $10, and Sunday tickets are $8. Kids ages 8 and under are free with a paying adult.Tickets for Salina Comic Con are available at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office, online at <a href="http://tonyspizzaeventscenter.com">tonyspizzaeventscenter.com</a>, or by calling 888-826-SHOW (7469).In accordance with the guidance and recommendations set forth by the CDC and local health officials, we respectfully request that the following guests not attend events at Tony's Pizza Events Center:• Guests who are feeling sick or experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms (including fever, cough and shortness of breath);• Guests who have been diagnosed with, or believe to have contracted, COVID-19, unless no fever has been present for 72 hours (without use of medicine) and 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared;• Guests who have been in contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19 within the past 14 days; and• Guests who have traveled outside the state in the past 14 days.

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