Saline County closed today a section of Pleasant Hill Road for reconstruction.

According to information from the Saline County Road and Bridge Department, Pleasant Hill Road between Halstead Road and Burma Road was closed to through traffic today for road reconstruction. 

Weather permitting, the roadway will be opened by the end of the day Friday. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591043749908.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Saline County closed today a section of Pleasant Hill Road for reconstruction.According to information from the Saline County Road and Bridge Department, Pleasant Hill Road between Halstead Road and Burma Road was closed to through traffic today for road reconstruction. Weather permitting, the roadway will be opened by the end of the day Friday. Motorists are advised to allow a few extra minutes of travel time to reach their destinations. Local and emergency traffic will be provided access to private property within the sections of closed road at all times but only from the side upon which the property lies.

County closes part of Pleasant Hill Road for reconstruction

Steven Howe, a Republican from Salina, filed paperwork this morning with the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office to become a candidate for the Republican nomination for the 71st House District.

Howe will face incumbent Rep. Diana Dierks in the Republican primary.&nbsp; A Democrat,&nbsp;Jeffrey Zamrzla of Salina, also is running to represent the 71st House District.

“It is my desire to be a servant leader in Topeka for the people of the 71st District. I look forward to running a positive campaign that listens, encourages civility, and promotes a stronger Salina and Saline County,” Howe said.

Howe is currently a teacher and cross-country coach at Cornerstone Classical School and is also the co-owner of the Tamara Howe School of Dance located in Downtown Salina. Howe is an Elder at Christ the King Lutheran Church and is the Republican Committeeman for Precinct 20. Howe has served on several community boards including Salina Downtown, Inc. and the Salina Childcare Association.

Additionally, Howe has 14 years of public service experience when he worked on Capitol Hill and in Kansas for two members of Congress (Jerry Moran 2003-2010; Tim Huelskamp 2011-2017).

Howe and his wife, Tamara, are parents to four boys and are blessed to call Salina home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591039891016.jpeg" alt="Steven Howe. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steven Howe. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Steven Howe, a Republican from Salina, filed paperwork this morning with the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office to become a candidate for the Republican nomination for the 71st House District.Howe will face incumbent Rep. Diana Dierks in the Republican primary.&nbsp; A Democrat,&nbsp;Jeffrey Zamrzla of Salina, also is running to represent the 71st House District.“It is my desire to be a servant leader in Topeka for the people of the 71st District. I look forward to running a positive campaign that listens, encourages civility, and promotes a stronger Salina and Saline County,” Howe said.Howe is currently a teacher and cross-country coach at Cornerstone Classical School and is also the co-owner of the Tamara Howe School of Dance located in Downtown Salina. Howe is an Elder at Christ the King Lutheran Church and is the Republican Committeeman for Precinct 20. Howe has served on several community boards including Salina Downtown, Inc. and the Salina Childcare Association.Additionally, Howe has 14 years of public service experience when he worked on Capitol Hill and in Kansas for two members of Congress (Jerry Moran 2003-2010; Tim Huelskamp 2011-2017).Howe and his wife, Tamara, are parents to four boys and are blessed to call Salina home.

Howe announces candidacy for 71st House District seat

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department has reported another confirmed case of COVID-19.

The newest positive case is a male in his 50s who is recovering at home and has unknown exposure at this time, the health department noted.

Of the 28 confirmed cases in McPherson County, 25 have met recovery guidelines set forth by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and another remains hospitalized, the health department reported.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department has reported another confirmed case of COVID-19.The newest positive case is a male in his 50s who is recovering at home and has unknown exposure at this time, the health department noted.Of the 28 confirmed cases in McPherson County, 25 have met recovery guidelines set forth by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and another remains hospitalized, the health department reported.

McPherson County reports 28th case of COVID-19

Police are investigating the theft of an antique tractor late last week.

David Wells, 64, of Salina, reported that an approximate 1940 model Ferguson TE20 tractor that was gray in color was taken from a side lawn next to a storage building in the 400 block of North Seventh Street sometime between 8 a.m. Thursday and 5 p.m. Friday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

The tractor, valued at $2,500, had a flat, right-side rear tire, he added.

Police are investigating the theft of an antique tractor late last week.David Wells, 64, of Salina, reported that an approximate 1940 model Ferguson TE20 tractor that was gray in color was taken from a side lawn next to a storage building in the 400 block of North Seventh Street sometime between 8 a.m. Thursday and 5 p.m. Friday, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.The tractor, valued at $2,500, had a flat, right-side rear tire, he added.

Antique tractor stolen late last week

A Topeka man was arrested on suspicion of aggravated battery and aggravated burglary after an incident Sunday afternoon at a Salina motel.

Officers were sent to the Airliner Motel, 781 North Broadway Boulevard, at 4:30 p.m. Sunday for the report of a shooting, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. When they arrived, they were informed that persons who had occupied room 25 had left in a black Ford Mustang, he said.

An officer located the car headed southbound in the 300 block of North Ninth Street and pulled it over, Forrester explained. Inside were a 34-year-old Assaria woman and a 23-year-old Salina woman who had been shot in her back in the shoulder area, he explained. Her injury was non-life-threatening, he added.

The women reported that someone knocked on the door of the motel room. When the door was opened, an approximately 5'7" male was in the doorway and allegedly fired two shots into the room, one of which struck the Salina woman, Forrester said. The man then fled, he added.

Several witnesses described the man as wearing a white shirt and brown or maroon shorts, Forrester said. An officer in the area located the subject coming out of an alley in the 600 block of North 12th Street, he said.

The man, identified as Michael Haffner, 33, of Topeka, was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said.

According to Forrester, two 22 caliber shell casings were found at the scene.

The case remains under investigation, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591019285207.jpeg" alt="Michael Haffner. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Michael Haffner. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A Topeka man was arrested on suspicion of aggravated battery and aggravated burglary after an incident Sunday afternoon at a Salina motel.Officers were sent to the Airliner Motel, 781 North Broadway Boulevard, at 4:30 p.m. Sunday for the report of a shooting, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. When they arrived, they were informed that persons who had occupied room 25 had left in a black Ford Mustang, he said.An officer located the car headed southbound in the 300 block of North Ninth Street and pulled it over, Forrester explained. Inside were a 34-year-old Assaria woman and a 23-year-old Salina woman who had been shot in her back in the shoulder area, he explained. Her injury was non-life-threatening, he added.The women reported that someone knocked on the door of the motel room. When the door was opened, an approximately 5'7" male was in the doorway and allegedly fired two shots into the room, one of which struck the Salina woman, Forrester said. The man then fled, he added.Several witnesses described the man as wearing a white shirt and brown or maroon shorts, Forrester said. An officer in the area located the subject coming out of an alley in the 600 block of North 12th Street, he said.The man, identified as Michael Haffner, 33, of Topeka, was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said.Aggravated batteryAggravated burglaryAccording to Forrester, two 22 caliber shell casings were found at the scene.The case remains under investigation, he said.

Topeka man arrested after woman shot at Salina motel

Police are investigating the theft of a van from north Salina.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Curtis Fry, 58, of Salina, reported that his white 2000 Chevrolet Venture van was stolen sometime between 9:30 p.m. Thursday and 7 a.m. Friday while it was parked in the 1200 block of North Eighth Street. The van, valued at $2,000 had a T100 decal on the front drivers' side panel and a Kansas license plate of 797MXS, Forrester said.

Fry told police that he had lost keys to the van about a month ago, Forrester added.

Police are investigating the theft of a van from north Salina.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Curtis Fry, 58, of Salina, reported that his white 2000 Chevrolet Venture van was stolen sometime between 9:30 p.m. Thursday and 7 a.m. Friday while it was parked in the 1200 block of North Eighth Street. The van, valued at $2,000 had a T100 decal on the front drivers' side panel and a Kansas license plate of 797MXS, Forrester said.Fry told police that he had lost keys to the van about a month ago, Forrester added.

Police investigating van stolen from north Salina

BROOKVILLE -- No one was injured when a fire burned a pickup in Brookville Saturday morning.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies and Rural Fire District No. 3 personnel were sent to the 300 block of North Perry in Brookville at 10:41 a.m. Saturday for the report of a vehicle fire.

Daniel Chavez, 71, of Salina, was driving his 1985 Ford F250 pickup to a location in Brookville, Soldan said. Chavez reported that as he neared his destination, he noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. By the time Chavez exited the vehicle, the engine compartment was fully engulfed and the flames then spread to the passenger compartment, Soldan said.

Chavez told deputies that the pickup hadn't been running quite right shortly before the fire, Soldan added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591027923419.jpeg" alt="What's left of the pickup. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>What's left of the pickup. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>BROOKVILLE -- No one was injured when a fire burned a pickup in Brookville Saturday morning.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that deputies and Rural Fire District No. 3 personnel were sent to the 300 block of North Perry in Brookville at 10:41 a.m. Saturday for the report of a vehicle fire.Daniel Chavez, 71, of Salina, was driving his 1985 Ford F250 pickup to a location in Brookville, Soldan said. Chavez reported that as he neared his destination, he noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. By the time Chavez exited the vehicle, the engine compartment was fully engulfed and the flames then spread to the passenger compartment, Soldan said.No one was injured, he said.Chavez told deputies that the pickup hadn't been running quite right shortly before the fire, Soldan added.

Driver safely escapes pickup fire in Brookville

ABILENE -- The Memorial Health System Volunteer Corps (MHSVC) recently awarded scholarships to two 2020 Chapman High School graduates.

Shailynn Gfeller and Julie Rock have each been awarded a $500 scholarship. 

Gfeller will be attending Cloud County Community College this fall, and then plans to apply to the University of Kansas School of Medicine to become a pediatrician. 

Rock has been accepted to the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering at Kansas State University, and will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biological/agricultural engineering with a focus on biological systems, cell biology, immunology, and genetics. She then plans to apply to medical school. 

The Memorial Health System Volunteer Corps presents two scholarships annually to local high school seniors who have volunteered their time within the community and plan to pursue a career in health care.

ABILENE -- The Memorial Health System Volunteer Corps (MHSVC) recently awarded scholarships to two 2020 Chapman High School graduates.Shailynn Gfeller and Julie Rock have each been awarded a $500 scholarship. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590972737902.jpeg" alt="Shailynn Gfeller. Photo courtesy MHS" />
 <figcaption>Shailynn Gfeller. Photo courtesy MHS</figcaption>
 </figure>Gfeller will be attending Cloud County Community College this fall, and then plans to apply to the University of Kansas School of Medicine to become a pediatrician. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590972831969.jpeg" alt="Julie Rock. Photo courtesy MHS" />
 <figcaption>Julie Rock. Photo courtesy MHS</figcaption>
 </figure>Rock has been accepted to the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering at Kansas State University, and will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biological/agricultural engineering with a focus on biological systems, cell biology, immunology, and genetics. She then plans to apply to medical school. The Memorial Health System Volunteer Corps presents two scholarships annually to local high school seniors who have volunteered their time within the community and plan to pursue a career in health care.

MHS Volunteer Corps awards two scholarships



In the pandemic Flu of 1918, everyone who came down with that especially virulent strain of influenza seemed to have an equal chance of spreading it to others. But for other contagious diseases, some who are infected appear to be major spreaders of the disease, while others do not pass it on despite being in contact with others. Although we are not five months into this pandemic, researchers are finding a few patients spread the disease more than others. These are “superspreaders.”

In the May 22 issue of the journal&nbsp;Science, the article “Case clustering emerges as key pandemic puzzle” adds a third measure of disease severity and transmission.

The first was the fatality rate, or the proportion of patients who contract the disease who then die. In the best of COVID-19 cases, that number is 6–10 times higher than for the seasonal flu, and in the more elderly population in Italy, it was much higher.

The rate of reproduction ( R ) measures how contagious a disease is; it is the average number of new infections that occur from contact with an infected patient. For COVID-19, that number averages about three. And any number above one indicates that the disease will spread more rapidly.

Now epidemiologists are finding that for some COVID-19 patients, there is no transmission to others. But a few patients infect a much larger number. Thus the R value average hides this difference between patients who are not shedding the virus, and the superspreaders.

And yes, epidemiologists have a number for superspreading: the dispersion factor (k). This ranges from zero to one, with one indicating an even dispersion where everyone infected has an equal chance of transmitting the disease. In the flu pandemic of 1918 that started in Kansas, any person who came down with the influenza virus was equally likely to infect others. But this pandemic is different.

In May 12, the CDC released their analysis of a superspreading event at a church in Mount Vernon in the state of Washington. Sixty-one people assembled for choir practice including one who thought he was suffering a cold. He did not yet know he had COVID-19. “In the following weeks, 53 choir members got sick, three were hospitalized, and two died....”&nbsp; A choir has been shown to be a very effective way to spread the virus in the many invisible droplets that are widely spread during singing.

The&nbsp;Science&nbsp;report continues with data collected by the London School of Hygiene &amp; Tropical Medicine: nearly 800 cases from a Singapore dormitory, 56 cases from attending a Zumba class in South Korea, and 80 cases from a live music show in Osaka, Japan. All started with one or a few superspreaders.

Other serious coronavirus diseases also appear to be spread by select carriers.&nbsp; A 2005 paper in the journal&nbsp;Nature&nbsp;is cited where the highly fatal SARS coronavirus had a k of 0.16, indicating it was only transmitted by a few of those infected, but those few were highly contagious. While SARS was a coronavirus originating in bats that spread to humans via civet cats, MERS was the coronavirus that spread to humans via camels. MERS has an estimated k of 0.25, still transmitted in clusters but with a lower rate of superspreading.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The current estimate of k for the COVID-19 virus is 0.1 according to Adam Kucharski of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. He simplifies this as “Probably about 10 percent of cases lead to 80 percent of the spread.”

More research is needed into why some patients lead to far more contagion than others. Experts who have worked with the different Ebola and HIV point to the main reason for these transmission clusters is that SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) is spread by aerosol transmission. There are differences in each patient’s immune system. --And how many viruses are shed. –And for how long. &nbsp;

Chinese researchers traced 318 clusters and found only one was transmitted outdoors. A Japanese study likewise found “...that the risk of infection indoors is almost 19 times higher than outdoors.”

With this type of medical detective work and research, an intelligent population can begin to resume life in a rationale and compassionate manner.



John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCK

In the pandemic Flu of 1918, everyone who came down with that especially virulent strain of influenza seemed to have an equal chance of spreading it to others. But for other contagious diseases, some who are infected appear to be major spreaders of the disease, while others do not pass it on despite being in contact with others. Although we are not five months into this pandemic, researchers are finding a few patients spread the disease more than others. These are “superspreaders.”In the May 22 issue of the journal&nbsp;Science, the article “Case clustering emerges as key pandemic puzzle” adds a third measure of disease severity and transmission.The first was the fatality rate, or the proportion of patients who contract the disease who then die. In the best of COVID-19 cases, that number is 6–10 times higher than for the seasonal flu, and in the more elderly population in Italy, it was much higher.The rate of reproduction ( R ) measures how contagious a disease is; it is the average number of new infections that occur from contact with an infected patient. For COVID-19, that number averages about three. And any number above one indicates that the disease will spread more rapidly.Now epidemiologists are finding that for some COVID-19 patients, there is no transmission to others. But a few patients infect a much larger number. Thus the R value average hides this difference between patients who are not shedding the virus, and the superspreaders.And yes, epidemiologists have a number for superspreading: the dispersion factor (k). This ranges from zero to one, with one indicating an even dispersion where everyone infected has an equal chance of transmitting the disease. In the flu pandemic of 1918 that started in Kansas, any person who came down with the influenza virus was equally likely to infect others. But this pandemic is different.In May 12, the CDC released their analysis of a superspreading event at a church in Mount Vernon in the state of Washington. Sixty-one people assembled for choir practice including one who thought he was suffering a cold. He did not yet know he had COVID-19. “In the following weeks, 53 choir members got sick, three were hospitalized, and two died....”&nbsp; A choir has been shown to be a very effective way to spread the virus in the many invisible droplets that are widely spread during singing.The&nbsp;Science&nbsp;report continues with data collected by the London School of Hygiene &amp; Tropical Medicine: nearly 800 cases from a Singapore dormitory, 56 cases from attending a Zumba class in South Korea, and 80 cases from a live music show in Osaka, Japan. All started with one or a few superspreaders.Other serious coronavirus diseases also appear to be spread by select carriers.&nbsp; A 2005 paper in the journal&nbsp;Nature&nbsp;is cited where the highly fatal SARS coronavirus had a k of 0.16, indicating it was only transmitted by a few of those infected, but those few were highly contagious. While SARS was a coronavirus originating in bats that spread to humans via civet cats, MERS was the coronavirus that spread to humans via camels. MERS has an estimated k of 0.25, still transmitted in clusters but with a lower rate of superspreading.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The current estimate of k for the COVID-19 virus is 0.1 according to Adam Kucharski of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. He simplifies this as “Probably about 10 percent of cases lead to 80 percent of the spread.”More research is needed into why some patients lead to far more contagion than others. Experts who have worked with the different Ebola and HIV point to the main reason for these transmission clusters is that SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) is spread by aerosol transmission. There are differences in each patient’s immune system. --And how many viruses are shed. –And for how long. &nbsp;Chinese researchers traced 318 clusters and found only one was transmitted outdoors. A Japanese study likewise found “...that the risk of infection indoors is almost 19 times higher than outdoors.”With this type of medical detective work and research, an intelligent population can begin to resume life in a rationale and compassionate manner.

John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities in 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

Education Frontlines: 'Superspreaders'

TOPEKA -- Austin Jensen, of Salina, earned a scholarship from the Gary &amp; Rebecca Heidrick Education Scholarship at Washburn University. 

This scholarship is awarded to deserving students in Washburn's education department for the 2020-2021 school year.

Washburn University awards millions of dollars in scholarships each year. Scholarships are based on student interests, career aspirations, community service and academic success. In addition to admissions and specialized scholarships, academic departments across Washburn offer a wide array of scholarship opportunities for new and continuing students. More information can be found at <a href="http://washburn.edu/scholarships">washburn.edu/scholarships</a>.

TOPEKA -- Austin Jensen, of Salina, earned a scholarship from the Gary &amp; Rebecca Heidrick Education Scholarship at Washburn University. This scholarship is awarded to deserving students in Washburn's education department for the 2020-2021 school year.Washburn University awards millions of dollars in scholarships each year. Scholarships are based on student interests, career aspirations, community service and academic success. In addition to admissions and specialized scholarships, academic departments across Washburn offer a wide array of scholarship opportunities for new and continuing students. More information can be found at <a href="http://washburn.edu/scholarships">washburn.edu/scholarships</a>.

Salina's Jensen earns Heidrick scholarship from Washburn

OCCK, Inc. is seeking Direct Support Professionals. These individuals are residential in their supported Living Department in the Salina, Beloit, and Concordia locations. Full time with benefits, EOE, drug testing.

This person will be coordinating services and provide Independent living skills. Training will be provided as needed. Need to be a compassionate and a problem solver.

Must be at least 18 years old with strong oral and written communication skills, math skills and valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. Must have the ability to work with a diverse group of people in a team setting. Various shifts available.

OCCK, Inc. is a not-for-profit, mission-based organization that has been providing services to people with disabilities since 1970. With regional offices throughout North Central Kansas. Help others and getting paid to do so. Apply at&nbsp;<a href="http://jobs.occk.com/careers//Careers.aspx?req=2019-2000-017&amp;type=JOBDESCR">http://jobs.occk.com/careers//Careers.aspx?req=2019-2000-017&amp;type=JOBDESCR</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576544829259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK, Inc. is seeking Direct Support Professionals. These individuals are residential in their supported Living Department in the Salina, Beloit, and Concordia locations. Full time with benefits, EOE, drug testing.This person will be coordinating services and provide Independent living skills. Training will be provided as needed. Need to be a compassionate and a problem solver.Must be at least 18 years old with strong oral and written communication skills, math skills and valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. Must have the ability to work with a diverse group of people in a team setting. Various shifts available.OCCK, Inc. is a not-for-profit, mission-based organization that has been providing services to people with disabilities since 1970. With regional offices throughout North Central Kansas. Help others and getting paid to do so. Apply at&nbsp;<a href="http://jobs.occk.com/careers//Careers.aspx?req=2019-2000-017&amp;type=JOBDESCR">http://jobs.occk.com/careers//Careers.aspx?req=2019-2000-017&amp;type=JOBDESCR</a>.

Today in History -- June 1

The Salina No. 60 Masons have announced that the organization has awarded scholarships to four Salina students.

Salina No. 60 has awarded scholarships to the following Salina students.

Ethan Brown ($2,500) to attend Kansas State University

Kaliyah Potts ($500) to attend Colby Community College

Mason Lundgrin ($500) to attend Neosha Community College

Sadie Farris ($500) to attend Hutchinson Community College

The Salina No. 60 Masons have announced that the organization has awarded scholarships to four Salina students.Salina No. 60 has awarded scholarships to the following Salina students.Ethan Brown ($2,500) to attend Kansas State UniversityKaliyah Potts ($500) to attend Colby Community CollegeMason Lundgrin ($500) to attend Neosha Community CollegeSadie Farris ($500) to attend Hutchinson Community College

Local Masonic group awards scholarships

HUTCHINSON — The nation’s top bulls and rising world-class cowboys, who buck up a storm on the pro rodeo circuit, will kick off the 2020 Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;

Tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. today (Monday) for the Nex-Gen Bull Riding Tour, which will deliver a night of adrenaline-pumping action starting at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand.&nbsp;

The tour features 30 of the toughest skilled bull riders from across the United States, who will go head to head against some of the fiercest animals in the business. The show begins with explosions and flames before the bravest cowboys deliver two hours of edge-of-your-seat entertainment.

These cowboys are competing for thousands in cash and prizes, along with the honor of being the Kansas State Fair Nex-Gen Bull Riding champion.

“It’s a fast-paced, high energy show,” said General Manager Robin Jennison. “These 140-pound cowboys will battle 2,000-pound bucking bulls. It’s been many years since we’ve had bull riding at the fair, and we’re excited to bring it back to the grandstand.”

Besides skilled cowboys, the event features three bullfighters, including Cade Gibson. A Texas native, Gibson grew up amid the rodeo scene and, in 2018, claimed the first-ever American Freestyle Bull Fighting world title at the AFB World Championship held in Uvalde, Texas.

World-traveling rodeo clown Matt Merritt, one of the best entertainers in the business, will keep crowds laughing. Known for his dancing skills, Merritt loves to create an atmosphere that's fun for the audience.

Mutton Bustin’ has all the makings in itself of being a real-life bull riding competition in miniature. With that in mind, the Fair moved the Kansas State Fair Mutton Bustin’ Championships to coincide with the bull riding tour. The mutton bustin’ semifinals begins at 6 p.m. The mutton bustin’ finals will take place before the bull riding finals. The Pretty Prairie Rodeo Association helps put on the annual event, which is sponsored by Continental Siding.

Bud Light Bull Pit seating is available for avid bull riding fans who want an up-close experience. These tickets offer premium seats, gate admission and one beverage ticket. The first 80 ticket purchasers will be offered a 30-minute, behind-the-chute experience before the performance. This experience includes demonstrations and an educational tour by the bullfighters. The Bud Light Bull Pit ticket price is $50 a person.&nbsp;

Grandstand reserved seating is $35 and includes gate admission. General admission tickets are $20 for adults 13 and older and $5 for children 6-12. Children 5 and under are free. General admission seating does not include gate admission.

Fair officials advise fairgoers to be cautious when purchasing tickets. Etix is the only authorized seller for fair tickets. Tickets can be purchased through Etix by visiting the Kansas State Fair’s website —<a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=uQqJcuAQ9xnusorCnTxucuXgkMXjTMxOzc3-2FerObpxBDFRwYlnmiU-2BcowA9iMdI8GJzEBUJkuiPXCPR0mO6cssLIZncFe-2BJzF0oE8xaXw-2Fsu6FcjCV-2Bn0oNatZCTSDy0eUI7CQ4z4UOLVb6tmdJPW1oj0pkAinraWxWnx7EqvFzgvaUnOguWDNxA4LzUPHf3mnaIXHp-2BsCScFNw-2FO1BgOfL85nHuUjj3CERwZ2x3GnQ-3DL6Un_t63W6VOpNaQzFln0mRpIPwKWfC8tUIiPKNeIQzfdtydzcb0gfM5hVzyP2NawZm234w-2Bnq2jRedWUt4CPMsqxo5k0NfsPuosDvSeATsLAup4VBYg4nqqe97fYzxASp44swv9a2ZwjO7PYy2W4qvkCqBTnFf31QhxBb-2FLC7Dod-2FaNkSJMpsTQ-2F79vusyCxD-2BOsZwiLcxxvtBno2VQTuE6t32vKa-2BZEVClMe-2FVBywnyTb2AlbUR7mj6P-2BHFO20czBexqDbfS0dUDnSTrrg9DVCAY-2FCogumFOLTUxRR2tsQDBQvTEyRRkG0knHyWfbuQg0-2FadBTYtcnRICkIx8ie-2Fb4N-2F7DNG5IIAxfxrOl703DJW8l011qUV0OY0fHt-2FzR3lpjNEUEnUDCHpbFdGckVpSRKnFIWppQOuEgB7ZkH38B5g-2BsWGfnpJI1IzeMq8z-2BvLmm3A2LT2BU-2Fbct5OSlc6gQd8w-3D-3D" target="_blank">&nbsp;kansasstatefair.com</a>. Also, tickets can be purchased by calling 620-669-3618.

The 2020 Kansas State Fair is Sept. 11-20. Fair officials are still finalizing the remaining Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand entertainment series. Following are the acts announced so far.

Tracy Lawrence and Logan Mize&nbsp;— 7:30 p.m. Sept. 15. Mize is an up-and-coming country star from Clearwater, Kan. His “Come Back Road” album has more than 150 million streams across all platforms and debuted at No. 2 on the Country iTunes chart. Other singles include “It Ain’t Always Pretty, "Can't Get Away from a Good Time,” "Better Off Gone” and “I Ain’t Gotta Grow Up.”&nbsp;&nbsp;One of country music’s truest traditionalists, Lawrence has sold more than 13 million albums and has charted 18 No. 1 songs. His singles that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 include "Sticks and Stones," "Alibis," "Can't Break It to My Heart," "If the Good Die Young," "Texas Tornado” and "Time Marches On." The most recent No. 1 was in 2007 with "Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” featuring Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw. Lawrence has 22 Top 10 hits, including “Better Man, Better Off,” “If the World Had A Front Porch,” “As Any Fool Can See” and "Paint Me a Birmingham." Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.&nbsp;

Newsboys with Adam Agee– 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16. Newsboys has defined Christian music since winning their first Dove award in 1995. Along the way, they’ve sold more than 10 million units and amassed eight gold certifications and 33 No. 1 radio hits. Among the chart-toppers are “Shine,” “It is You” and “He Reigns” from earlier years to more recent singles like “Born Again,” “Miracles” and “We Believe” and platinum-certified mega-hit, “God’s Not Dead.” Ticket prices start at $20.&nbsp;

38 Special— 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17. Spanning five decades, 38 Special helped write the classic rock soundtrack of the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Hold on Loosely” and “Caught Up in You.” Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.

Chris Janson– 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18. Janson put himself on the country music map with his single “Buy Me a Boat,” in 2015. The chart-topping, double-platinum single received the iHeartRadio Music Awards Country Song of the Year in 2016 has had more than 82 million streams on Spotify. Other hits include “Drunk Girl,” “Fix a Drink,” “Power of Positive Drinkin’” and “Done.” “Good Vibes” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in October. Ticket prices start at $25.&nbsp;

Nelly with Willie Jones— 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19. Nelly, a diamond-selling, multi-platinum artist, has sold more than 22 million albums, ranking him as one of the best-selling rappers in America. His songs include “Ride Wit Me,” “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones” and “Country Grammar,” which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in June. Rising star Jones blends his country roots with R&amp;B and hip-hop influences. Recent singles include Whole Lotta Love,” “Bachelorettes on Broadway” and “Down For it.” Tickets are still available at $25 and $35.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Darci Lynne Farmer — 3 p.m. Sept. 20. Teen ventriloquist Darci Lynne Farmer hit stardom in 2017 after becoming one of the youngest contestants to ever win NBC’s America’s Got Talent.” Darci Lynne will be accompanied by her puppet friends: divaesque rabbit Petunia, shy and soulful mouse Oscar and a sarcastic old woman named Edna. Ticket prices start at $20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590971010310.jpeg" alt="Payton Fitzpatrick. Photo provided by Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>Payton Fitzpatrick. Photo provided by Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON — The nation’s top bulls and rising world-class cowboys, who buck up a storm on the pro rodeo circuit, will kick off the 2020 Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;Tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. today (Monday) for the Nex-Gen Bull Riding Tour, which will deliver a night of adrenaline-pumping action starting at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand.&nbsp;The tour features 30 of the toughest skilled bull riders from across the United States, who will go head to head against some of the fiercest animals in the business. The show begins with explosions and flames before the bravest cowboys deliver two hours of edge-of-your-seat entertainment.These cowboys are competing for thousands in cash and prizes, along with the honor of being the Kansas State Fair Nex-Gen Bull Riding champion.“It’s a fast-paced, high energy show,” said General Manager Robin Jennison. “These 140-pound cowboys will battle 2,000-pound bucking bulls. It’s been many years since we’ve had bull riding at the fair, and we’re excited to bring it back to the grandstand.”Besides skilled cowboys, the event features three bullfighters, including Cade Gibson. A Texas native, Gibson grew up amid the rodeo scene and, in 2018, claimed the first-ever American Freestyle Bull Fighting world title at the AFB World Championship held in Uvalde, Texas.World-traveling rodeo clown Matt Merritt, one of the best entertainers in the business, will keep crowds laughing. Known for his dancing skills, Merritt loves to create an atmosphere that's fun for the audience.Mutton Bustin’Mutton Bustin’ has all the makings in itself of being a real-life bull riding competition in miniature. With that in mind, the Fair moved the Kansas State Fair Mutton Bustin’ Championships to coincide with the bull riding tour. The mutton bustin’ semifinals begins at 6 p.m. The mutton bustin’ finals will take place before the bull riding finals. The Pretty Prairie Rodeo Association helps put on the annual event, which is sponsored by Continental Siding.To purchase ticketsBud Light Bull Pit seating is available for avid bull riding fans who want an up-close experience. These tickets offer premium seats, gate admission and one beverage ticket. The first 80 ticket purchasers will be offered a 30-minute, behind-the-chute experience before the performance. This experience includes demonstrations and an educational tour by the bullfighters. The Bud Light Bull Pit ticket price is $50 a person.&nbsp;Grandstand reserved seating is $35 and includes gate admission. General admission tickets are $20 for adults 13 and older and $5 for children 6-12. Children 5 and under are free. General admission seating does not include gate admission.Fair officials advise fairgoers to be cautious when purchasing tickets. Etix is the only authorized seller for fair tickets. Tickets can be purchased through Etix by visiting the Kansas State Fair’s website —<a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=uQqJcuAQ9xnusorCnTxucuXgkMXjTMxOzc3-2FerObpxBDFRwYlnmiU-2BcowA9iMdI8GJzEBUJkuiPXCPR0mO6cssLIZncFe-2BJzF0oE8xaXw-2Fsu6FcjCV-2Bn0oNatZCTSDy0eUI7CQ4z4UOLVb6tmdJPW1oj0pkAinraWxWnx7EqvFzgvaUnOguWDNxA4LzUPHf3mnaIXHp-2BsCScFNw-2FO1BgOfL85nHuUjj3CERwZ2x3GnQ-3DL6Un_t63W6VOpNaQzFln0mRpIPwKWfC8tUIiPKNeIQzfdtydzcb0gfM5hVzyP2NawZm234w-2Bnq2jRedWUt4CPMsqxo5k0NfsPuosDvSeATsLAup4VBYg4nqqe97fYzxASp44swv9a2ZwjO7PYy2W4qvkCqBTnFf31QhxBb-2FLC7Dod-2FaNkSJMpsTQ-2F79vusyCxD-2BOsZwiLcxxvtBno2VQTuE6t32vKa-2BZEVClMe-2FVBywnyTb2AlbUR7mj6P-2BHFO20czBexqDbfS0dUDnSTrrg9DVCAY-2FCogumFOLTUxRR2tsQDBQvTEyRRkG0knHyWfbuQg0-2FadBTYtcnRICkIx8ie-2Fb4N-2F7DNG5IIAxfxrOl703DJW8l011qUV0OY0fHt-2FzR3lpjNEUEnUDCHpbFdGckVpSRKnFIWppQOuEgB7ZkH38B5g-2BsWGfnpJI1IzeMq8z-2BvLmm3A2LT2BU-2Fbct5OSlc6gQd8w-3D-3D" target="_blank">&nbsp;kansasstatefair.com</a>. Also, tickets can be purchased by calling 620-669-3618.The 2020 Kansas State Fair is Sept. 11-20. Fair officials are still finalizing the remaining Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand entertainment series. Following are the acts announced so far.Tracy Lawrence and Logan Mize&nbsp;— 7:30 p.m. Sept. 15. Mize is an up-and-coming country star from Clearwater, Kan. His “Come Back Road” album has more than 150 million streams across all platforms and debuted at No. 2 on the Country iTunes chart. Other singles include “It Ain’t Always Pretty, "Can't Get Away from a Good Time,” "Better Off Gone” and “I Ain’t Gotta Grow Up.”&nbsp;&nbsp;One of country music’s truest traditionalists, Lawrence has sold more than 13 million albums and has charted 18 No. 1 songs. His singles that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 include "Sticks and Stones," "Alibis," "Can't Break It to My Heart," "If the Good Die Young," "Texas Tornado” and "Time Marches On." The most recent No. 1 was in 2007 with "Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” featuring Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw. Lawrence has 22 Top 10 hits, including “Better Man, Better Off,” “If the World Had A Front Porch,” “As Any Fool Can See” and "Paint Me a Birmingham." Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.&nbsp;Newsboys with Adam Agee– 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16. Newsboys has defined Christian music since winning their first Dove award in 1995. Along the way, they’ve sold more than 10 million units and amassed eight gold certifications and 33 No. 1 radio hits. Among the chart-toppers are “Shine,” “It is You” and “He Reigns” from earlier years to more recent singles like “Born Again,” “Miracles” and “We Believe” and platinum-certified mega-hit, “God’s Not Dead.” Ticket prices start at $20.&nbsp;38 Special— 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17. Spanning five decades, 38 Special helped write the classic rock soundtrack of the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Hold on Loosely” and “Caught Up in You.” Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.Chris Janson– 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18. Janson put himself on the country music map with his single “Buy Me a Boat,” in 2015. The chart-topping, double-platinum single received the iHeartRadio Music Awards Country Song of the Year in 2016 has had more than 82 million streams on Spotify. Other hits include “Drunk Girl,” “Fix a Drink,” “Power of Positive Drinkin’” and “Done.” “Good Vibes” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in October. Ticket prices start at $25.&nbsp;Nelly with Willie Jones— 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19. Nelly, a diamond-selling, multi-platinum artist, has sold more than 22 million albums, ranking him as one of the best-selling rappers in America. His songs include “Ride Wit Me,” “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones” and “Country Grammar,” which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in June. Rising star Jones blends his country roots with R&amp;B and hip-hop influences. Recent singles include Whole Lotta Love,” “Bachelorettes on Broadway” and “Down For it.” Tickets are still available at $25 and $35.&nbsp;&nbsp;Darci Lynne Farmer — 3 p.m. Sept. 20. Teen ventriloquist Darci Lynne Farmer hit stardom in 2017 after becoming one of the youngest contestants to ever win NBC’s America’s Got Talent.” Darci Lynne will be accompanied by her puppet friends: divaesque rabbit Petunia, shy and soulful mouse Oscar and a sarcastic old woman named Edna. Ticket prices start at $20.

Some of feistiest bulls, toughest cowboys coming to state fair

LAWRENCE — Students in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Kansas received over $130,000 in awards and scholarships in recognition of superior academic, research and teaching performance.

The chemistry department usually honors its scholarship and award winners and those students earning chemistry degrees during its annual recognition ceremony in early May. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the 2020 event has been postponed indefinitely.  

Undergraduate scholarships and awards are presented to chemistry majors to recognize their remarkable academic and research achievement for AY19-20. Chemistry graduate students earned scholarships and awards to recognize their contributions in academics, research and/or teaching for AY19-20. With over $130,000 provided in scholarships and awards, this year marks the highest amount awarded in the past five years.

The chemistry department is able to offer these awards and scholarships due to the donations from alumni and friends, made through KU Endowment Association.

Kansas award recipients are listed below by county. A full list of winners is available online:

Hunter Schneider, Pittsburg, Talty Scholarship

Anton Barybin, Lawrence, Clark Bricker Scholarship

Ashley Borkowski, Lawrence, Adrienne Mitchell Scholarship

Alex Meier, Newton, Chemistry Scholarship Fund

Megan Hegarty, Leawood, Clark E. &amp; Ann Bricker Scholarship and Snyder Award

Alexandria Gambill, Lenexa, Barbara Schowen Scholarship

Eleanor Stewart-Jones, Mission, Wakarusa Valley ACS Award and Chemistry Scholarship Fund Award

Elaena Barney, Olathe, Roger Munsinger Scholarship

Madeline Devries, Olathe, Burton &amp; Cheryle MacKenzie Scholarship

Robert Castaneda, Overland Park, Reynold T. Iwamoto Scholarship

Emma Cosner, Overland Park, Leland &amp; Jill Weigel Scholarship

Thomas Finn, Overland Park, Kleinberg Award

Sarah Park, Overland Park, Walter Gubar Scholarship

Elaine Yeh, Overland Park, Owen Maloney Scholarship

Dane Brunner, Shawnee, Frank Newby Physical Science Award

Kaley Muir, Shawnee, Clark E. &amp; Ann Bricker Scholarship and Keynon Latham Opportunity Fund Award

Katherine Vander Laan, Westwood, Keith &amp; Dona Darlington Award

Seth Martin, Tonganoxie, Kristina May Paquette Scholarship

Ambrosee Wilkinson, Salina, Ralph E. &amp; Esther Weik Badgley Scholarship

Joseph Karnes, Derby, Charles &amp; Beatrice Kulier Scholarship

Braeden Huslig, Wichita, Leonard V. Sorg Scholarship

Thy Nguyen, Wichita, Burton &amp; Cheryle MacKenzie Scholarship and Alpha Chi Sigma Award

Riley Stegmaier, Wichita, James &amp; Sharon Elrod Scholarship and Gini Adams Research Award

Jon Super, Wichita, Frank Newby Physical Science Award

Remington Tee, Wichita, Dr. Bijan &amp; Mary Taylor Amini Scholarship

Jonah Stiel, Topeka, Floyd &amp; Ruth Fassnacht Memorial Scholarship

Jessica Bair, Sharon Springs, Adrienne Mitchell Scholarship

Wade Henke, Kansas City, Kristina May Paquette Scholarship

Anh-Dao Do, Kansas City, Dr. Bijan &amp; Mary Taylor Amini Scholarship.

LAWRENCE — Students in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Kansas received over $130,000 in awards and scholarships in recognition of superior academic, research and teaching performance.The chemistry department usually honors its scholarship and award winners and those students earning chemistry degrees during its annual recognition ceremony in early May. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the 2020 event has been postponed indefinitely. Undergraduate scholarships and awards are presented to chemistry majors to recognize their remarkable academic and research achievement for AY19-20. Chemistry graduate students earned scholarships and awards to recognize their contributions in academics, research and/or teaching for AY19-20. With over $130,000 provided in scholarships and awards, this year marks the highest amount awarded in the past five years.The chemistry department is able to offer these awards and scholarships due to the donations from alumni and friends, made through KU Endowment Association.Kansas award recipients are listed below by county. A full list of winners is available online:Crawford CountyHunter Schneider, Pittsburg, Talty ScholarshipDouglas CountyAnton Barybin, Lawrence, Clark Bricker ScholarshipAshley Borkowski, Lawrence, Adrienne Mitchell ScholarshipHarvey CountyAlex Meier, Newton, Chemistry Scholarship FundJohnson CountyMegan Hegarty, Leawood, Clark E. &amp; Ann Bricker Scholarship and Snyder AwardAlexandria Gambill, Lenexa, Barbara Schowen ScholarshipEleanor Stewart-Jones, Mission, Wakarusa Valley ACS Award and Chemistry Scholarship Fund AwardElaena Barney, Olathe, Roger Munsinger ScholarshipPatrick Connelly, Olathe, Dains AwardMadeline Devries, Olathe, Burton &amp; Cheryle MacKenzie ScholarshipRobert Castaneda, Overland Park, Reynold T. Iwamoto ScholarshipEmma Cosner, Overland Park, Leland &amp; Jill Weigel ScholarshipThomas Finn, Overland Park, Kleinberg AwardSarah Park, Overland Park, Walter Gubar ScholarshipElaine Yeh, Overland Park, Owen Maloney ScholarshipDane Brunner, Shawnee, Frank Newby Physical Science AwardKaley Muir, Shawnee, Clark E. &amp; Ann Bricker Scholarship and Keynon Latham Opportunity Fund AwardKatherine Vander Laan, Westwood, Keith &amp; Dona Darlington AwardLeavenworth CountySeth Martin, Tonganoxie, Kristina May Paquette ScholarshipSaline CountyAmbrosee Wilkinson, Salina, Ralph E. &amp; Esther Weik Badgley ScholarshipSedgwick CountyJoseph Karnes, Derby, Charles &amp; Beatrice Kulier ScholarshipBraeden Huslig, Wichita, Leonard V. Sorg ScholarshipThy Nguyen, Wichita, Burton &amp; Cheryle MacKenzie Scholarship and Alpha Chi Sigma AwardRiley Stegmaier, Wichita, James &amp; Sharon Elrod Scholarship and Gini Adams Research AwardJon Super, Wichita, Frank Newby Physical Science AwardRemington Tee, Wichita, Dr. Bijan &amp; Mary Taylor Amini ScholarshipShawnee CountyJonah Stiel, Topeka, Floyd &amp; Ruth Fassnacht Memorial ScholarshipWallace CountyJessica Bair, Sharon Springs, Adrienne Mitchell ScholarshipWyandotte CountyWade Henke, Kansas City, Kristina May Paquette ScholarshipAnh-Dao Do, Kansas City, Dr. Bijan &amp; Mary Taylor Amini Scholarship.

Salina's Wilkinson among KU chemistry scholarship recipients

Plastic bags, proposed renovations to Dean Evans Stadium, and five executive sessions are among the many items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. Monday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. 

Because of COVID-19 concerns, the city commission meetings will take place via telephone conference until further notice. You can view the meetings on Access TV, either via Cox Cable Channel 20 or online at <a href="http://www.salinatv.org">www.salinatv.org</a> or at the City of Salina YouTube channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

To participate in the meetings, you will need to dial (785) 621-0800 and enter participant code 782956 followed by #.

If you wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, you MUST dial *9 on your phone. This will alert the moderator, who will open your line. 

Commissioners are scheduled to consider a request to proclaim June 6, 2020 as “National Gun Violence Awareness Day” in the City of  Salina. Cori North with Moms Demand Action Kansas Chapter, Salina Group is scheduled to read the proclamation. 

Commissioners also are to reconsider the restriction on the use of plastic bags to take recyclable materials to the Salina Drive-Thru Recycling Center (SDRC). At its May 11 meeting, the commission authorized the reopening of the SDRC with reduced hours. The authorization included the restriction on the use of plastic bags.

According to background information in the commission meeting packet for Monday, "the restriction of the use of plastic bags has met with public concern, especially since many of the customers have stored  6-8 weeks' worth of materials since the SDRC was closed. Staff does regret not having spoken up when this was discussed to voice concerns about this restriction. Utilizing bags is not much different than other containers, and plastic bags are definitely preferred over recycled materials showing up loose in car trunks and pickup beds, which does occur occasionally now."

The information noted that approximately 50 percent of the current SDRC customers use plastic bags to take recyclables to the SDRC and approximately 50 percent of those people reuse the plastic bags.

City staff is recommending that the plastic bag restriction be lifted.

Renovation proposal for Dean Evans Stadium

Commissioners also are being asked to consider a request from Salina Baseball Enterprises (SBE) to move forward with renovations to Dean Evans Stadium. The renovations are part of a larger request from SBE in 2019, for which the group proposed to raise $4 million in private funds and donations to help pay for improvements to Dean Evans Stadium, the East Crawford Recreation Area baseball and softball fields and facilities, and Bill Burke Park baseball and softball fields and facilities. SBE's $4 million would be matched by $4 million in city funds under the proposed agreement.

Although the city and SBE were working on the details for the proposed agreement, the project was put on hold during the March 25, 2020, commission meeting, due to city concerns about the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

SBE is now asking the city to move forward with renovations to Dean Evans Stadium only. This portion of the project would be totally funded by money raised by SBE, and is estimated to cost approximately $1.8 million, according to commission meeting packet information.

"They indicated that they are concerned that the potential of missing another year of construction progress could impact the community's ability to retain the 4A state baseball and softball tournaments in Salina," the commission meeting information noted.

Commissioners also have the following five executive sessions on the agenda for Monday.

•To discuss a specific economic development prospect.

•To discuss with environmental counsel for the Salina Public Entities and the city's legal counsel confidential mediation with representatives of the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers associated with pending litigation in U.S. District Court relating to the former Schilling Air Force Base environmental matter.

•To discuss with legal counsel legal considerations relating to specific points of negotiation raised by Saline County upon review of the draft of the expo center lease.

•To discuss with legal counsel legal consideration presented by the request of the Saline County Fair Association, Inc., for continued use of Tri-Rivers Stadium for future Tri-Rivers Fairs.

•To discuss with legal counsel a notice of claim filed by legal counse for Melissa Fullen, Matthew Fullen, and Beverly Fullen.

Other items on the city commission agenda for Monday include the following.

•Hear the first  reading  Ordinance  No.  20-11032  terminating  the  Lambertz  Addition/Kohl’s Tax Increment Financing Project Redevelopment District.

•Consider Resolution  No.  20-7837  authorizing  the  mayor  to  execute  an  amendment  to  the  transferee  agreement  with  JKSK  Corporation  regarding  the  construction  of  the  Barolo Grille. 

To view the entire Salina City Commission meeting packet (125 pages, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?startid=177362&amp;&amp;dbid=0">click here</a>.

Plastic bags, proposed renovations to Dean Evans Stadium, and five executive sessions are among the many items on the Salina City Commission agenda for Monday.The meeting is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. Monday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. Because of COVID-19 concerns, the city commission meetings will take place via telephone conference until further notice. You can view the meetings on Access TV, either via Cox Cable Channel 20 or online at <a href="http://www.salinatv.org">www.salinatv.org</a> or at the City of Salina YouTube channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.To participate in the meetings, you will need to dial (785) 621-0800 and enter participant code 782956 followed by #.If you wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, you MUST dial *9 on your phone. This will alert the moderator, who will open your line. Commissioners are scheduled to consider a request to proclaim June 6, 2020 as “National Gun Violence Awareness Day” in the City of Salina. Cori North with Moms Demand Action Kansas Chapter, Salina Group is scheduled to read the proclamation. SDRC and plastic bagsCommissioners also are to reconsider the restriction on the use of plastic bags to take recyclable materials to the Salina Drive-Thru Recycling Center (SDRC). At its May 11 meeting, the commission authorized the reopening of the SDRC with reduced hours. The authorization included the restriction on the use of plastic bags.According to background information in the commission meeting packet for Monday, "the restriction of the use of plastic bags has met with public concern, especially since many of the customers have stored 6-8 weeks' worth of materials since the SDRC was closed. Staff does regret not having spoken up when this was discussed to voice concerns about this restriction. Utilizing bags is not much different than other containers, and plastic bags are definitely preferred over recycled materials showing up loose in car trunks and pickup beds, which does occur occasionally now."The information noted that approximately 50 percent of the current SDRC customers use plastic bags to take recyclables to the SDRC and approximately 50 percent of those people reuse the plastic bags.City staff is recommending that the plastic bag restriction be lifted.Renovation proposal for Dean Evans StadiumCommissioners also are being asked to consider a request from Salina Baseball Enterprises (SBE) to move forward with renovations to Dean Evans Stadium. The renovations are part of a larger request from SBE in 2019, for which the group proposed to raise $4 million in private funds and donations to help pay for improvements to Dean Evans Stadium, the East Crawford Recreation Area baseball and softball fields and facilities, and Bill Burke Park baseball and softball fields and facilities. SBE's $4 million would be matched by $4 million in city funds under the proposed agreement.Although the city and SBE were working on the details for the proposed agreement, the project was put on hold during the March 25, 2020, commission meeting, due to city concerns about the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.SBE is now asking the city to move forward with renovations to Dean Evans Stadium only. This portion of the project would be totally funded by money raised by SBE, and is estimated to cost approximately $1.8 million, according to commission meeting packet information."They indicated that they are concerned that the potential of missing another year of construction progress could impact the community's ability to retain the 4A state baseball and softball tournaments in Salina," the commission meeting information noted.Executive sessionsCommissioners also have the following five executive sessions on the agenda for Monday.•To discuss a specific economic development prospect.•To discuss with environmental counsel for the Salina Public Entities and the city's legal counsel confidential mediation with representatives of the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers associated with pending litigation in U.S. District Court relating to the former Schilling Air Force Base environmental matter.•To discuss with legal counsel legal considerations relating to specific points of negotiation raised by Saline County upon review of the draft of the expo center lease.•To discuss with legal counsel legal consideration presented by the request of the Saline County Fair Association, Inc., for continued use of Tri-Rivers Stadium for future Tri-Rivers Fairs.•To discuss with legal counsel a notice of claim filed by legal counse for Melissa Fullen, Matthew Fullen, and Beverly Fullen.Other itemsOther items on the city commission agenda for Monday include the following.•Hear the first reading Ordinance No. 20-11032 terminating the Lambertz Addition/Kohl’s Tax Increment Financing Project Redevelopment District.•Consider Resolution No. 20-7837 authorizing the mayor to execute an amendment to the transferee agreement with JKSK Corporation regarding the construction of the Barolo Grille. •Hear an update on Fieldhouse Camp.•Hear an April 2020 financial update.To view the entire Salina City Commission meeting packet (125 pages, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?startid=177362&amp;&amp;dbid=0">click here</a>.

City agenda: Plastic bags, renovations, executive sessions

Weather History for Sunday, May 31, 2020, from the National Weather Service:

In 1985, many areas of the Lower Great Lakes were ripped apart by an outbreak of 41 tornadoes from Northeast Ohio to extreme southern Ontario, Canada. Eight were violent, one of which was an F5. Three are especially noteworthy. One was a violent F4 with a track 69 miles long and averaged 1.5 miles wide as it roared through Central Pennsylvania. At one point, the vortex reached 2.2 MILES WIDE. As it tore through a state forest, it obliterated around 90,000 trees. It was very fortunate that no towns were hit.

An F5 tornado, with a track 47 miles long and around one half mile wide, tore through extreme Northeast Ohio and Northwest Pennsylvania. It killed 18 and injured around 310. Although Northeast Ohio bore the brunt of the tornado's wrath where it tracked 33 miles and caused around $65 million damage, it nearly wiped Wheatland, Pennsylvania off the map. It is the only F5 tornado to have struck the Keystone State.

In Canada, one F4 tornado raced 67 miles and was around 1 mile wide. It passed about 25 miles northwest of Toronto and killed 4 people. In all, 76 people were killed and around 890 injured during this outbreak.

In 2015, a nasty May ended across the Southern Plains as severe thunderstorms producing hail that reached grapefruit-sized, destructive winds that reached close to 100 mph, numerous tornadoes, and torrential rains invaded these areas repeatedly. Most of Southern Oklahoma was overwhelmed by rainfalls from 15 to 25 inches that May, as well as much of North Texas. Durant was inundated by 24.42 inches which nearly doubled the May record of 12.57 inches set in 1982. Marietta's May total of 23.44 inches was just over double the record of 11.56 inches set in 1950, while monthly totals across Oklahoma City ranged from 19.48 to 23.10 inches in Norman.

No doubt, with such phenomenal rainfall, numerous rivers rose to the occasion with record stages reached at several locations. The most dramatic rises occurred in Central Texas on the 23rd and 24th where the Blanco River had soared to a record 40.21 feet at Wimberley, located 40 miles southwest of Austin, when the gauge was lost. A 31-foot rise occurred in 2 1/2 HOURS. The flash flooding in Wimberley was no doubt catastrophic. Around 300 houses were damaged or destroyed and despite a widespread rescue effort, several people drowned. The Norman, Oklahoma Forecast Office issued three Flash Flood Emergencies. Parts of I-35 had to be barricaded.

Initial reports were that 108 tornadoes struck Texas and Oklahoma. The most significant was the massive vortex that struck Van, Texas, located about 50 miles east of Dallas where two were killed, dozens injured, and around 30 percent of the town demolished on the evening of May 10th. Several houses vanished.

In 1941, thunderstorms swamped Burlington, Kan., with 12.59 inches of rain. This had established a 24-hour Kansas State rainfall record until June 22, 1967 when 13.53 inches swamped a volunteer weather station 3 miles west southwest of Woodruff, which is located in Phillips County.



Weather History for Sunday, May 31, 2020, from the National Weather Service:In 1985, many areas of the Lower Great Lakes were ripped apart by an outbreak of 41 tornadoes from Northeast Ohio to extreme southern Ontario, Canada. Eight were violent, one of which was an F5. Three are especially noteworthy. One was a violent F4 with a track 69 miles long and averaged 1.5 miles wide as it roared through Central Pennsylvania. At one point, the vortex reached 2.2 MILES WIDE. As it tore through a state forest, it obliterated around 90,000 trees. It was very fortunate that no towns were hit.An F5 tornado, with a track 47 miles long and around one half mile wide, tore through extreme Northeast Ohio and Northwest Pennsylvania. It killed 18 and injured around 310. Although Northeast Ohio bore the brunt of the tornado's wrath where it tracked 33 miles and caused around $65 million damage, it nearly wiped Wheatland, Pennsylvania off the map. It is the only F5 tornado to have struck the Keystone State.In Canada, one F4 tornado raced 67 miles and was around 1 mile wide. It passed about 25 miles northwest of Toronto and killed 4 people. In all, 76 people were killed and around 890 injured during this outbreak.In 2015, a nasty May ended across the Southern Plains as severe thunderstorms producing hail that reached grapefruit-sized, destructive winds that reached close to 100 mph, numerous tornadoes, and torrential rains invaded these areas repeatedly. Most of Southern Oklahoma was overwhelmed by rainfalls from 15 to 25 inches that May, as well as much of North Texas. Durant was inundated by 24.42 inches which nearly doubled the May record of 12.57 inches set in 1982. Marietta's May total of 23.44 inches was just over double the record of 11.56 inches set in 1950, while monthly totals across Oklahoma City ranged from 19.48 to 23.10 inches in Norman.No doubt, with such phenomenal rainfall, numerous rivers rose to the occasion with record stages reached at several locations. The most dramatic rises occurred in Central Texas on the 23rd and 24th where the Blanco River had soared to a record 40.21 feet at Wimberley, located 40 miles southwest of Austin, when the gauge was lost. A 31-foot rise occurred in 2 1/2 HOURS. The flash flooding in Wimberley was no doubt catastrophic. Around 300 houses were damaged or destroyed and despite a widespread rescue effort, several people drowned. The Norman, Oklahoma Forecast Office issued three Flash Flood Emergencies. Parts of I-35 had to be barricaded.Initial reports were that 108 tornadoes struck Texas and Oklahoma. The most significant was the massive vortex that struck Van, Texas, located about 50 miles east of Dallas where two were killed, dozens injured, and around 30 percent of the town demolished on the evening of May 10th. Several houses vanished.In 1941, thunderstorms swamped Burlington, Kan., with 12.59 inches of rain. This had established a 24-hour Kansas State rainfall record until June 22, 1967 when 13.53 inches swamped a volunteer weather station 3 miles west southwest of Woodruff, which is located in Phillips County.