Today is Thursday, May 28, the 149th day of 2020. There are 217 days left in the year.

On May 28, 1912, the Senate Commerce Committee issued its report on the Titanic disaster that cited a "state of absolute unpreparedness," improperly tested safety equipment and an "indifference to danger" as some of the causes of an "unnecessary tragedy."

In 1533, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Cranmer, declared the marriage of England's King Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn valid.

In 1863, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, made up of freed blacks, left Boston to fight for the Union in the Civil War.

In 1908, British author Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond as well as "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," was born in London.

In 1918, American troops fought their first major battle during World War I as they launched an offensive against the German-held French village of Cantigny; the Americans succeeded in capturing the village.

In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt pushed a button in Washington signaling that vehicular traffic could begin crossing the just-opened Golden Gate Bridge in California. Neville Chamberlain became prime minister of Britain. In Nazi Germany, Volkswagen was founded by the German Labour Front.

In 1940, during World War II, the Belgian army surrendered to invading German forces.

In 1957, National League owners gave permission for the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants to move to Los Angeles and San Francisco.

In 1959, the U.S. Army launched Able, a rhesus monkey, and Baker, a squirrel monkey, aboard a Jupiter missile for a suborbital flight which both primates survived.

In 1964, the charter of the Palestine Liberation Organization was issued at the start of a meeting of the Palestine National Congress in Jerusalem.

In 1977, 165 people were killed when fire raced through the Beverly Hills Supper Club in Southgate, Kentucky.

In 1987, to the embarrassment of Soviet officials, Mathias Rust, a young West German pilot, landed a private plane in Moscow's Red Square without authorization. (Rust was freed by the Soviets the following year.)

In 2003, President George W. Bush signed a 10-year, $350 billion package of tax cuts, saying they already were "adding fuel to an economic recovery."

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama visited Grand Isle, Louisiana, where he personally confronted the spreading damage wrought by the crude gushing into the Gulf of Mexico from the BP blowout — and the bitter anger rising onshore. Suspected Islamist militants attacked two mosques packed with hundreds of worshippers from a minority sect in eastern Pakistan; at least 93 people were killed and dozens wounded. Gary Coleman, the former child star of the 1970s TV sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes," died at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo two days after suffering a brain hemorrhage; he was 42.

Five years ago: A federal grand jury indictment handed up in Chicago revealed that former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert had agreed to pay $3.5 million in hush money to keep an unidentified person silent about "prior misconduct" by the Illinois Republican. (Hastert later pleaded guilty to breaking banking law and was sentenced to 15 months in prison; prosecutors said the money was intended to conceal past sexual abuse against a student wrestler while Hastert was a high school teacher and coach.) For the second straight year, the Scripps National Spelling Bee ended with co-champions as Vanya Shivashankar and Gokul Venkatachalam were the last two standing.

One year ago: Sports Illustrated magazine was sold for $110 million to Authentic Brands Group, a company that specializes in managing fashion, entertainment and sports brands. A vicious storm tore through the western outskirts of Kansas City, spawning one or more tornadoes that injured at least 12 people. Novelist MacKenzie Bezos, who had finalized her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos earlier in the year, pledged to give away half her fortune to charity.

Today's Birthdays: Actress Carroll Baker is 89. Producer-director Irwin Winkler is 89. Basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West is 82. Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is 76. Singer Gladys Knight is 76. Singer Billy Vera is 76. Singer John Fogerty (Creedance Clearwater Revival) is 75. Country musician Jerry Douglas is 64. Actor Louis Mustillo is 62. Former governor and U.S. Rep. Mark Sanford, R-S.C., is 60. Actor Brandon Cruz (TV: "The Courtship of Eddie's Father") is 58. Country singer Phil Vassar is 56. Actress Christa Miller is 56. Singer-musician Chris Ballew (Presidents of the USA) is 55. Rapper Chubb Rock is 52. Singer Kylie Minogue is 52. Actor Justin Kirk is 51. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., is 49. Olympic gold medal figure skater Ekaterina Gordeeva is 49. Television personality Elisabeth Hasselbeck is 43. R&amp;B singer Jaheim is 43. Actor Jake Johnson is 42. Actor Jesse Bradford is 41. Actress Monica Keena is 41. Actress Alexa Davalos is 38. Actress Megalyn Echikunwoke is 38. Pop singer Colbie Caillat is 35. Actress Carey Mulligan is 35. Actor Joseph Cross is 34. Chicago Cubs pitcher Craig Kimbrel is 32.

Thought for Today: "The bravest thing you can do when you are not brave is to profess courage and act accordingly." — Corra May Harris, American writer (1869-1935).

<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>Today is Thursday, May 28, the 149th day of 2020. There are 217 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 28, 1912, the Senate Commerce Committee issued its report on the Titanic disaster that cited a "state of absolute unpreparedness," improperly tested safety equipment and an "indifference to danger" as some of the causes of an "unnecessary tragedy."On this date:In 1533, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Cranmer, declared the marriage of England's King Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn valid.In 1863, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, made up of freed blacks, left Boston to fight for the Union in the Civil War.In 1908, British author Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond as well as "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," was born in London.In 1918, American troops fought their first major battle during World War I as they launched an offensive against the German-held French village of Cantigny; the Americans succeeded in capturing the village.In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt pushed a button in Washington signaling that vehicular traffic could begin crossing the just-opened Golden Gate Bridge in California. Neville Chamberlain became prime minister of Britain. In Nazi Germany, Volkswagen was founded by the German Labour Front.In 1940, during World War II, the Belgian army surrendered to invading German forces.In 1957, National League owners gave permission for the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants to move to Los Angeles and San Francisco.In 1959, the U.S. Army launched Able, a rhesus monkey, and Baker, a squirrel monkey, aboard a Jupiter missile for a suborbital flight which both primates survived.In 1964, the charter of the Palestine Liberation Organization was issued at the start of a meeting of the Palestine National Congress in Jerusalem.In 1977, 165 people were killed when fire raced through the Beverly Hills Supper Club in Southgate, Kentucky.In 1987, to the embarrassment of Soviet officials, Mathias Rust, a young West German pilot, landed a private plane in Moscow's Red Square without authorization. (Rust was freed by the Soviets the following year.)In 2003, President George W. Bush signed a 10-year, $350 billion package of tax cuts, saying they already were "adding fuel to an economic recovery."Ten years ago: President Barack Obama visited Grand Isle, Louisiana, where he personally confronted the spreading damage wrought by the crude gushing into the Gulf of Mexico from the BP blowout — and the bitter anger rising onshore. Suspected Islamist militants attacked two mosques packed with hundreds of worshippers from a minority sect in eastern Pakistan; at least 93 people were killed and dozens wounded. Gary Coleman, the former child star of the 1970s TV sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes," died at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo two days after suffering a brain hemorrhage; he was 42.Five years ago: A federal grand jury indictment handed up in Chicago revealed that former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert had agreed to pay $3.5 million in hush money to keep an unidentified person silent about "prior misconduct" by the Illinois Republican. (Hastert later pleaded guilty to breaking banking law and was sentenced to 15 months in prison; prosecutors said the money was intended to conceal past sexual abuse against a student wrestler while Hastert was a high school teacher and coach.) For the second straight year, the Scripps National Spelling Bee ended with co-champions as Vanya Shivashankar and Gokul Venkatachalam were the last two standing.One year ago: Sports Illustrated magazine was sold for $110 million to Authentic Brands Group, a company that specializes in managing fashion, entertainment and sports brands. A vicious storm tore through the western outskirts of Kansas City, spawning one or more tornadoes that injured at least 12 people. Novelist MacKenzie Bezos, who had finalized her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos earlier in the year, pledged to give away half her fortune to charity.Today's Birthdays: Actress Carroll Baker is 89. Producer-director Irwin Winkler is 89. Basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West is 82. Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is 76. Singer Gladys Knight is 76. Singer Billy Vera is 76. Singer John Fogerty (Creedance Clearwater Revival) is 75. Country musician Jerry Douglas is 64. Actor Louis Mustillo is 62. Former governor and U.S. Rep. Mark Sanford, R-S.C., is 60. Actor Brandon Cruz (TV: "The Courtship of Eddie's Father") is 58. Country singer Phil Vassar is 56. Actress Christa Miller is 56. Singer-musician Chris Ballew (Presidents of the USA) is 55. Rapper Chubb Rock is 52. Singer Kylie Minogue is 52. Actor Justin Kirk is 51. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., is 49. Olympic gold medal figure skater Ekaterina Gordeeva is 49. Television personality Elisabeth Hasselbeck is 43. R&amp;B singer Jaheim is 43. Actor Jake Johnson is 42. Actor Jesse Bradford is 41. Actress Monica Keena is 41. Actress Alexa Davalos is 38. Actress Megalyn Echikunwoke is 38. Pop singer Colbie Caillat is 35. Actress Carey Mulligan is 35. Actor Joseph Cross is 34. Chicago Cubs pitcher Craig Kimbrel is 32.Thought for Today: "The bravest thing you can do when you are not brave is to profess courage and act accordingly." — Corra May Harris, American writer (1869-1935).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- May 28

WICHITA — The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Fblood-donor-app.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962040356&amp;sdata=PaPi4aZ%2BC0J4uZppFWqbr%2F1%2B6wlTNPMwtoXOEWzARtY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962040356&amp;sdata=7DWlV6vcK%2Fs3JTqn6LMZB8JZ3SAIl1seqFie4t10rq4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30 percent after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.

All those who come to give through May 31 will receive a special Red Cross T-shirt by mail, while supplies last. And thanks to Amazon, all those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. (

Restrictions apply. Additional information and details are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2FTogether&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962070339&amp;sdata=b6y1yudH43MArbjXCfg6Fm1bIA2%2B%2FrTcQxtZtIctggo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/Together</a>.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services. “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop. We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”

It’s important to remember that red blood cells must be transfused within 42 days of donation and platelets within just five days. So, they must constantly be replenished. There is no known end date in this fight against coronavirus, and the Red Cross urgently needs the help of donors and blood drive hosts to ensure blood products are readily available for patients.

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Fdonate-blood%2Fdlp%2Fcoronavirus--covid-19--and-blood-donation.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962040356&amp;sdata=zWL0xV2pgMe5VTsBm0y1BoPJoWXUeM8kdkNJnvrSmJw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">additional precautions&nbsp;</a>– including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance. Donors are&nbsp;asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a&nbsp;face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;public guidance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upcoming blood donation opportunities through June 15

5/29/2020: noon - 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Main and Haynes

6/15/2020: noon - 6 p.m., St Bernard's Catholic Church, 911 North Kansas

6/5/2020: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, K-232 and Hwy 40

6/11/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Mankato Community Center, 214 North High

5/29/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 308 North Indiana

6/1/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 224 South Main

6/9/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Elim Lutheran Church, 405 N. Lincoln

5/28/2020: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., City of McPherson, 400 East Kansas Avenue

6/9/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Grace Crossing Church, 111 Cole Street

6/10/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Catholic Church, 117 East Vine

6/1/2020: 11:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Community Center, 200 Baird Street

5/31/2020: 12:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., The Temple, 336 South Santa Fe Avenue

6/2/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, 120 West Ash Street

6/2/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Church of the Cross, 1600 Rush Street

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Fgive.html%2Ffind-drive&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962050351&amp;sdata=f61Y3jHr%2Bu1cA0TZ8pI2V9CgidwliEEoyicFUveBmyU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">donate blood</a>. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®&nbsp;to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Frapidpass&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962050351&amp;sdata=corhTEp8AMOrJxoaNlDenSRrnozzHrVFS5TuOiw5DAU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the Blood Donor App.

WICHITA — The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Fblood-donor-app.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962040356&amp;sdata=PaPi4aZ%2BC0J4uZppFWqbr%2F1%2B6wlTNPMwtoXOEWzARtY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962040356&amp;sdata=7DWlV6vcK%2Fs3JTqn6LMZB8JZ3SAIl1seqFie4t10rq4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30 percent after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.All those who come to give through May 31 will receive a special Red Cross T-shirt by mail, while supplies last. And thanks to Amazon, all those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. (

Restrictions apply. Additional information and details are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2FTogether&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962070339&amp;sdata=b6y1yudH43MArbjXCfg6Fm1bIA2%2B%2FrTcQxtZtIctggo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/Together</a>.)&nbsp;&nbsp;“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services. “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop. We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”It’s important to remember that red blood cells must be transfused within 42 days of donation and platelets within just five days. So, they must constantly be replenished. There is no known end date in this fight against coronavirus, and the Red Cross urgently needs the help of donors and blood drive hosts to ensure blood products are readily available for patients.Blood drive safety precautionsEach Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Fdonate-blood%2Fdlp%2Fcoronavirus--covid-19--and-blood-donation.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962040356&amp;sdata=zWL0xV2pgMe5VTsBm0y1BoPJoWXUeM8kdkNJnvrSmJw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">additional precautions&nbsp;</a>– including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance. Donors are&nbsp;asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a&nbsp;face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;public guidance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upcoming blood donation opportunities through June 15CLOUD COUNTYGlasco5/29/2020: noon - 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Main and HaynesELLSWORTH COUNTYEllsworth6/15/2020: noon - 6 p.m., St Bernard's Catholic Church, 911 North KansasWilson6/5/2020: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, K-232 and Hwy 40JEWELL COUNTYMankato6/11/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Mankato Community Center, 214 North HighLINCOLN COUNTYSylvan Grove5/29/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 308 North IndianaMCPHERSON COUNTYLindsborg6/1/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 224 South MainMarquette6/9/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Elim Lutheran Church, 405 N. LincolnMcPherson5/28/2020: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., City of McPherson, 400 East Kansas AvenueMoundridge6/9/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Grace Crossing Church, 111 Cole StreetOTTAWA COUNTYMinneapolis6/10/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Catholic Church, 117 East VineREPUBLIC COUNTYCuba6/1/2020: 11:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Community Center, 200 Baird StreetSALINE COUNTYSalina5/31/2020: 12:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., The Temple, 336 South Santa Fe Avenue6/2/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, 120 West Ash Street6/2/2020: noon - 6 p.m., Church of the Cross, 1600 Rush StreetAbout blood donationAll blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Fgive.html%2Ffind-drive&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962050351&amp;sdata=f61Y3jHr%2Bu1cA0TZ8pI2V9CgidwliEEoyicFUveBmyU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">donate blood</a>. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®&nbsp;to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2Frapidpass&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cjan.hale%40redcross.org%7Cef8d5f461be847b80a2d08d802420b46%7Cdd5b5d42c0d34ad2b5f160edb3af2771%7C0%7C0%7C637261829962050351&amp;sdata=corhTEp8AMOrJxoaNlDenSRrnozzHrVFS5TuOiw5DAU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the Blood Donor App.

Red Cross: Urgent need for blood donations as hospital demand rises

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

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

Recent obituaries

The Salina City Commission has a special meeting scheduled for Thursday morning.

Commissioners are scheduled to convene at 8 a.m. Thursday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, for a special meeting authorizing application of a Department of Justice grant for coronavirus emergency funding to be used by Salina Police and Fire departments.

In order to observe guidance restricting gatherings to 15 or less, the meeting will take place via telephone conference which can be viewed on Salina Media Connection via Cox Cable Channel 20 or online at <a href="http://www.salinatv.org">www.salinatv.org</a>. The meeting will also be broadcasted live on the City of Salina YouTube channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

Citizens who wish to address the city commission may provide public comments by dialing (785) 621-0800 and entering participant code 782956 followed by #.

If citizens wish to speak either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must dial *9 from their phones to alert the moderator, who will open the line.

To view the Salina City Commission agenda and packet, visit <a href="http://salina-ks.gov">salina-ks.gov</a> and select Salina City Commission Agenda and Packet within the Featured Items feed.

The Salina City Commission has a special meeting scheduled for Thursday morning.Commissioners are scheduled to convene at 8 a.m. Thursday in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, for a special meeting authorizing application of a Department of Justice grant for coronavirus emergency funding to be used by Salina Police and Fire departments.In order to observe guidance restricting gatherings to 15 or less, the meeting will take place via telephone conference which can be viewed on Salina Media Connection via Cox Cable Channel 20 or online at <a href="http://www.salinatv.org">www.salinatv.org</a>. The meeting will also be broadcasted live on the City of Salina YouTube channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.Citizens who wish to address the city commission may provide public comments by dialing (785) 621-0800 and entering participant code 782956 followed by #.If citizens wish to speak either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must dial *9 from their phones to alert the moderator, who will open the line.To view the Salina City Commission agenda and packet, visit <a href="http://salina-ks.gov">salina-ks.gov</a> and select Salina City Commission Agenda and Packet within the Featured Items feed.

City commission to meet Thursday morning to authorize grant app

Relatively warm and dry weather is favored across mid-America during the first days of June, according to the National Weather Service.

Relatively warm and dry weather is favored across mid-America during the first days of June, according to the National Weather Service.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590618124682.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

NWS: Warmer, drier weather to kick off June

Precision Electrical Contractors LLC. is now hiring full-time electricians to be based in the central Kansas area. Precision Electric specializes in Commercial and Industrial projects Including health care, education, manufacturing, food service and retail. Precision Electrical contractors is based in Salina, Ks and has been serving central Kansas since 2003.

Licensing and experience in the commercial electric field is preferred but not required. Must be a team player, performance driven and have job safety as a top priority. Precision Electric’s benefit package includes health and life insurance,&nbsp;paid vacation and holidays. A valid driver's license and pre-employment drug screening is required before employment. Apply on our website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecsalina.com/" target="_blank">www.PECSalina.com</a>&nbsp;EOE

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590618596619.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Precision Electrical Contractors LLC. is now hiring full-time electricians to be based in the central Kansas area. Precision Electric specializes in Commercial and Industrial projects Including health care, education, manufacturing, food service and retail. Precision Electrical contractors is based in Salina, Ks and has been serving central Kansas since 2003.Licensing and experience in the commercial electric field is preferred but not required. Must be a team player, performance driven and have job safety as a top priority. Precision Electric’s benefit package includes health and life insurance,&nbsp;paid vacation and holidays. A valid driver's license and pre-employment drug screening is required before employment. Apply on our website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecsalina.com/" target="_blank">www.PECSalina.com</a>&nbsp;EOE

No new cases of COVID-19 in Saline County; 1 case still isolated

Tornado warnings have been down this year in Kansas. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NWSWichita/">US National Weather Service Wichita Kansas</a> Facebook page:

Tornado warnings have been down this year in Kansas. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NWSWichita/">US National Weather Service Wichita Kansas</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNWSWichita%2Fposts%2F3550454644971191&width=500" width="500" height="447" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

NWS: Slower year so far for tornado warnings

The City of Salina shares information about electric bills and disconnections. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salina.ks.gov/">City of Salina</a> Facebook page:

The City of Salina shares information about electric bills and disconnections. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salina.ks.gov/">City of Salina</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalina.ks.gov%2Fposts%2F10157791631271339&width=500" width="500" height="351" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

City of Salina shares electric bill, disconnects information

The airline industry’s COVID-19 economic tailspin has also included operations at 1 Vision Salina. On May 20, 1 Vision president and CEO, Jim Sponder received good news from customer Endeavor Airlines that will stabilize the MRO’s Salina operations.

On Wednesday May 20, 1 Vision was visited by Greg Lambert, director of business administration, heavy checks, and planning at Endeavor Air, of Minneapolis, Minn. Endeavor is a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines. Up to 35 of Delta’s jets have been stored since March outside of Big Bertha at the Salina Regional Airport, and 1 Vision workers have been performing “storage tasks” on the planes. “Every 14 days, there are certain tasks required to be done on the aircraft in storage,” Lambert said.

He and other officials were in Salina to announce that 1 Vision will be receiving more business from Endeavor.

“We’ve worked with 1 Vision for several years,” he said. “Their ability to produce quality work on time has been a strength for us, and because of that, we are looking to send additional work to them.”

The visit was a great development for 1 Vision. “That’s a huge thing. It means a lot of fast growth for us,” Sponder said. COVID-19 has yet to thwart his plans of growing 1 Vision in Salina to 450 workers by next year.

“Our comeback has to do with how soon the public starts flying again,” Sponder said. Seven of the Delta jets stored in Salina were put back into service this month, Lambert said, and two more will be put back in service on May 29. That’s a “good sign,” Sponder said, and it might just build momentum.

“People in aviation will read up on this and it will get them to thinking about coming back,” Sponder said. “This could be a confidence builder, and it could help us bring in great talent (airframe and power plant mechanics) to the Salina area.”



1 Vision performs line maintenance, service checks, heavy checks, modifications, painting of the aircraft (interior and exterior) and components, sheet metal work, refurbishment, and fiberglass repair.

1 Vision is qualified and trained to perform maintenance on many fleet types including transport category aircraft. 1 Vision Aviation is a Part 145 FAA Repair Station and is also certified to work on Transport Canada aircraft.

Aircraft listed on 1 Vision’s operations specifications include the EMB 120, ERJ 135, ERJ 140, ERJ 145, B1900, 328 Jet, Dash 8, Q400, Saab 340, CRJ 200, CRJ 700, CRJ 900, and Challenger 600 aircraft.&nbsp;

Vision Aviation Salina occupies the 105,000 SF Hangar 959, “Big Bertha,” at the Salina Regional Airport.&nbsp;

--<a href="https://www.salinaairport.com/">Salina Airport Authority</a>--

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590606458659.jpeg" alt="The 1 Vision hangar at the north end of the Salina Regional Airport. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The 1 Vision hangar at the north end of the Salina Regional Airport. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The airline industry’s COVID-19 economic tailspin has also included operations at 1 Vision Salina. On May 20, 1 Vision president and CEO, Jim Sponder received good news from customer Endeavor Airlines that will stabilize the MRO’s Salina operations.On Wednesday May 20, 1 Vision was visited by Greg Lambert, director of business administration, heavy checks, and planning at Endeavor Air, of Minneapolis, Minn. Endeavor is a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines. Up to 35 of Delta’s jets have been stored since March outside of Big Bertha at the Salina Regional Airport, and 1 Vision workers have been performing “storage tasks” on the planes. “Every 14 days, there are certain tasks required to be done on the aircraft in storage,” Lambert said.He and other officials were in Salina to announce that 1 Vision will be receiving more business from Endeavor.“We’ve worked with 1 Vision for several years,” he said. “Their ability to produce quality work on time has been a strength for us, and because of that, we are looking to send additional work to them.”The visit was a great development for 1 Vision. “That’s a huge thing. It means a lot of fast growth for us,” Sponder said. COVID-19 has yet to thwart his plans of growing 1 Vision in Salina to 450 workers by next year.“Our comeback has to do with how soon the public starts flying again,” Sponder said. Seven of the Delta jets stored in Salina were put back into service this month, Lambert said, and two more will be put back in service on May 29. That’s a “good sign,” Sponder said, and it might just build momentum.“People in aviation will read up on this and it will get them to thinking about coming back,” Sponder said. “This could be a confidence builder, and it could help us bring in great talent (airframe and power plant mechanics) to the Salina area.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590606780875.jpeg" alt="Inside the 1 Vision hangar. Photo courtesy Salina Airport Authority" />
 <figcaption>Inside the 1 Vision hangar. Photo courtesy Salina Airport Authority</figcaption>
 </figure>About 1 Vision Aviation Salina1 Vision performs line maintenance, service checks, heavy checks, modifications, painting of the aircraft (interior and exterior) and components, sheet metal work, refurbishment, and fiberglass repair.1 Vision is qualified and trained to perform maintenance on many fleet types including transport category aircraft. 1 Vision Aviation is a Part 145 FAA Repair Station and is also certified to work on Transport Canada aircraft.Aircraft listed on 1 Vision’s operations specifications include the EMB 120, ERJ 135, ERJ 140, ERJ 145, B1900, 328 Jet, Dash 8, Q400, Saab 340, CRJ 200, CRJ 700, CRJ 900, and Challenger 600 aircraft.&nbsp;Vision Aviation Salina occupies the 105,000 SF Hangar 959, “Big Bertha,” at the Salina Regional Airport.&nbsp;--<a href="https://www.salinaairport.com/">Salina Airport Authority</a>--

1 Vision Salina to receive more work from Endeavor Airlines

Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the economic impact felt by many, OCCK Transportation will continue free fares for all public transit services, including CityGo, 81 Connection, Paratransit and City of Abilene through the month of June.

Counties served include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Saline, Ottawa, Cloud, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Lincoln, Ellsworth, Osborne, Smith, McPherson, Marion, Dickinson, Clay.

Access to the Transportation office at 340 North Santa Fe Avenue is still limited to employees only until further notice.&nbsp;

Plans are in the works to re-open all public transportation services fully.&nbsp;&nbsp;A public announcement will be made when that happens.

Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the economic impact felt by many, OCCK Transportation will continue free fares for all public transit services, including CityGo, 81 Connection, Paratransit and City of Abilene through the month of June.Counties served include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Saline, Ottawa, Cloud, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Lincoln, Ellsworth, Osborne, Smith, McPherson, Marion, Dickinson, Clay.Access to the Transportation office at 340 North Santa Fe Avenue is still limited to employees only until further notice.&nbsp;Plans are in the works to re-open all public transportation services fully.&nbsp;&nbsp;A public announcement will be made when that happens.

OCCK Transportation extends free rides

Here's a dose of good news for today. The Abilene city manager provided the following uplifting update that was released to media this morning.

Friday afternoon we received a call from an Abilene citizen who wanted to pay individuals' past due/shutoff water bills.

The anonymous donation was for $2,000.

The act of kindness is something very positive that has come from something very unsettling in this pandemic.

The donor stated that he and his wife did not need the stimulus money they had received and wanted to do good with it.

This donation helped 41 local Abilene residents to become current on their water bills.

This kind gesture of Paying it Forward for those who may be struggling right now is something this staff has never seen happen in this magnitude before.

This is much appreciated by the City and by those who received funds.

Here's a dose of good news for today. The Abilene city manager provided the following uplifting update that was released to media this morning.Friday afternoon we received a call from an Abilene citizen who wanted to pay individuals' past due/shutoff water bills.The anonymous donation was for $2,000.The act of kindness is something very positive that has come from something very unsettling in this pandemic.The donor stated that he and his wife did not need the stimulus money they had received and wanted to do good with it.This donation helped 41 local Abilene residents to become current on their water bills.This kind gesture of Paying it Forward for those who may be struggling right now is something this staff has never seen happen in this magnitude before.This is much appreciated by the City and by those who received funds.Thank You! Whoever you are.

Abilene donor provides $2,000 to help others with water bills

Kansas Wesleyan University has announced&nbsp;important&nbsp;changes to its planned fall semester schedule. 

The university will be open and hold on-ground courses, as previously announced May 1. However, the university has set an earlier start and end date to the semester&nbsp;to help ensure best serving students.&nbsp;

The semester will now begin Aug. 10, eight days earlier than previously planned, and move-in dates will be Aug. 5 (new students) and Aug. 7 (returning students). Fall break will be cancelled and finals will end Tuesday, Nov. 24. The spring semester will remain unchanged, and will begin Jan. 12, 2021.&nbsp;

“We believe that this schedule change will give us the best approach to complete the semester on-ground, should COVID-19 cases increase once again this fall,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, President &amp; CEO of KWU. “Schools such as Notre Dame and Creighton have adopted very similar plans, and we believe more institutions will follow over the next 6–8 weeks. By making this decision early, we continue to put students first by giving them the ability to fully plan for the fall semester. We recognize the effects of the pandemic keep planning and implementation very fluid, and so, we remain in regular consultation with local health officials and continue to monitor for any changes to the situation.”

Kansas Wesleyan University has announced&nbsp;important&nbsp;changes to its planned fall semester schedule. The university will be open and hold on-ground courses, as previously announced May 1. However, the university has set an earlier start and end date to the semester&nbsp;to help ensure best serving students.&nbsp;The semester will now begin Aug. 10, eight days earlier than previously planned, and move-in dates will be Aug. 5 (new students) and Aug. 7 (returning students). Fall break will be cancelled and finals will end Tuesday, Nov. 24. The spring semester will remain unchanged, and will begin Jan. 12, 2021.&nbsp;“We believe that this schedule change will give us the best approach to complete the semester on-ground, should COVID-19 cases increase once again this fall,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, President &amp; CEO of KWU. “Schools such as Notre Dame and Creighton have adopted very similar plans, and we believe more institutions will follow over the next 6–8 weeks. By making this decision early, we continue to put students first by giving them the ability to fully plan for the fall semester. We recognize the effects of the pandemic keep planning and implementation very fluid, and so, we remain in regular consultation with local health officials and continue to monitor for any changes to the situation.”

Kansas Wesleyan announces new fall semester schedule

A spokeswoman for Exide Tech, said the notices provided “a possible scenario” but wouldn’t necessarily come to pass.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/dan-margolies">DAN MARGOLIES</a>

A maker of industrial and automotive batteries says it may have to lay off nearly 1,000 workers at its plants in Kansas City and Salina, Kansas, if a sale of the company falls through and it’s forced to close down its operations.

In notices it filed last week with the Kansas Department of Commerce, Exide Technologies says the plants’ closures could result in the layoffs of 223 workers in Kansas City and 765 in Salina.

The company, which is based in Milton, Georgia, sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware on May 19. It is seeking to sell the business and meantime continues to operate with $40 million in loans it received as part of the bankruptcy filing.

Melissa Floyd, a spokeswoman for Exide, said the layoffs were “a possible scenario” that might not come to pass.

“There are no impending layoffs or anything like that,” she said. “And in fact, there are folks who interested in acquiring our operating assets. So it’s a possible scenario, not likely, but it’s just part of this whole process where we have to send out these letters.”

Less than three years ago, Exide invested more than $35 million in a 180,000 square-foot plant in Platte County that makes components for its batteries. Because that plant employs fewer than 50 people, Exide was not required to file a notice for that plant with Missouri authorities under the Worker Adjustment &amp; Retraining Notification Act, or WARN Act.

The WARN Act is a federal law that requires employers to provide advanced notification to workers when they’re faced with a plant closing or mass layoff. It only applies, however, to facilities with 50 or more workers.

Exide’s Kansas City, Kan., plant makes industrial batteries for forklifts, trains and other large industrial applications. The Salina plant, one of the largest employers in that city, makes batteries for trucks, SUVs, cars, and lawn and garden applications.

The company operates in about 80 countries and employs around 8,000 workers worldwide. The Chapter 11 filing, however, only includes its North American operation, which accounts for about a third of its global workforce.

Floyd said the COVID-19 pandemic was a factor in the bankruptcy filing because it led to a slowdown in demand for Exide’s products.

“You don’t want to make more batteries than our customers are ordering,” she said.

This is the third time Exide, which traces its roots to 1888, has sought bankruptcy protection. It previously declared bankruptcy in 2002 and 2013.

Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KCUR</a>. He can be reached by email at <a href="mailto:dan@kcur.org">dan@kcur.org</a> or on Twitter @DanMargolies.

<h2>A spokeswoman for Exide Tech, said the notices provided “a possible scenario” but wouldn’t necessarily come to pass.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590006089659.jpeg" alt="The Salina Exide plant. Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Exide plant. Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/dan-margolies">DAN MARGOLIES</a>A maker of industrial and automotive batteries says it may have to lay off nearly 1,000 workers at its plants in Kansas City and Salina, Kansas, if a sale of the company falls through and it’s forced to close down its operations.In notices it filed last week with the Kansas Department of Commerce, Exide Technologies says the plants’ closures could result in the layoffs of 223 workers in Kansas City and 765 in Salina.The company, which is based in Milton, Georgia, sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware on May 19. It is seeking to sell the business and meantime continues to operate with $40 million in loans it received as part of the bankruptcy filing.Melissa Floyd, a spokeswoman for Exide, said the layoffs were “a possible scenario” that might not come to pass.“There are no impending layoffs or anything like that,” she said. “And in fact, there are folks who interested in acquiring our operating assets. So it’s a possible scenario, not likely, but it’s just part of this whole process where we have to send out these letters.”Less than three years ago, Exide invested more than $35 million in a 180,000 square-foot plant in Platte County that makes components for its batteries. Because that plant employs fewer than 50 people, Exide was not required to file a notice for that plant with Missouri authorities under the Worker Adjustment &amp; Retraining Notification Act, or WARN Act.The WARN Act is a federal law that requires employers to provide advanced notification to workers when they’re faced with a plant closing or mass layoff. It only applies, however, to facilities with 50 or more workers.Exide’s Kansas City, Kan., plant makes industrial batteries for forklifts, trains and other large industrial applications. The Salina plant, one of the largest employers in that city, makes batteries for trucks, SUVs, cars, and lawn and garden applications.The company operates in about 80 countries and employs around 8,000 workers worldwide. The Chapter 11 filing, however, only includes its North American operation, which accounts for about a third of its global workforce.Floyd said the COVID-19 pandemic was a factor in the bankruptcy filing because it led to a slowdown in demand for Exide’s products.“You don’t want to make more batteries than our customers are ordering,” she said.This is the third time Exide, which traces its roots to 1888, has sought bankruptcy protection. It previously declared bankruptcy in 2002 and 2013.Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KCUR</a>. He can be reached by email at <a href="mailto:dan@kcur.org">dan@kcur.org</a> or on Twitter @DanMargolies.

Exide may be forced to lay off 1,000 workers at KC, Salina plants

Police are investigating the theft of more than $4,800 worth of fishing equipment from a boat in north Salina.

A 71-year-old Salina man reported to police that sometime between 11 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday someone stole the following from a boat parked in his driveway in the 1300 block of North Front Street, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

A fishing rod with a Dallas reel valued at $140

Three silver Dallas reels valued at $300 each

A maroon tackle bag with black handles containing miscellaneous tackle valued at $1,500

A black tackle bag with gray handles containing miscellaneous tackle valued at $650

Police are investigating the theft of more than $4,800 worth of fishing equipment from a boat in north Salina.A 71-year-old Salina man reported to police that sometime between 11 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday someone stole the following from a boat parked in his driveway in the 1300 block of North Front Street, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.Five fishing rods valued at $200 eachA fishing rod with a Dallas reel valued at $140Two Mitchell reels valued at $300 eachThree silver Dallas reels valued at $300 eachA maroon tackle bag with black handles containing miscellaneous tackle valued at $1,500A black tackle bag with gray handles containing miscellaneous tackle valued at $650A trolling motor remote valued at $20

Police investigating theft of fishing equipment

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· 1st Shift Kitchen Lead· 2nd Shift Service· 2nd Shift Packers· 2nd Shift Wrapping Lead· 2nd Shift Machine OperatorsCheck 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.

K-State Polytechnic offers virtual UAS program for teens

The McPherson County Health Department has outlined the county's reopening steps. They are as follows.

Effective 12:01 a.m. today, the McPherson County Local Health Officer will be recommending residents of McPherson County follow the guidelines listed below, some of which are set forth in Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas and other relevant national and state-level guidance.

Disease spread, hospitalization rates, death rates and the ability to contact trace will be evaluated before recommending McPherson County moves to the next phase. Please be aware if local hospitals begin to be overwhelmed with COVID-19 related patients, the Local Health Officer will implement restrictive orders to support our healthcare infrastructure.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) travel-related quarantine mandate is still in effect and is mandated by McPherson County Health Department as well. An updated travel-related quarantine list can be found within the latest Case Update for McPherson County on <a href="http://mcphersoncountyks.us">mcphersoncountyks.us</a> or by checking the KDHE webpage at <a href="http://coronavirus.kdheks.gov">coronavirus.kdheks.gov</a>.

Questions can be submitted to McPherson County Health Department at 620-241-1753 or <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a>.

•Gatherings: no more than 15 individuals in a mass gathering where 6-foot social distance cannot be maintained between the individuals

If an event larger than the mass gathering restriction recommendation occurs, we ask that a plan to keep the event safe be submitted to McPherson County Health Department via email at <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a> or via phone at 620-241-1753

Masks are strongly encouraged in public settings

Maintain 6-foot social distance in both indoor and outdoor settings

High-risk individuals like those with underlying medical conditions should continue to stay home except for essential needs

Employees exhibiting illness should be required to stay home and encouraged to seek medical care as necessary

Avoid gatherings greater than 15 where social distancing protocols cannot be maintained and continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between workstations as employees are phased in

Minimize or avoid travel if it isn’t for medical, family, or business-related needs

KDHE travel-related quarantine mandates are still in effect for high-risk areas

K-12 facilities should continue to follow the guidelines of the Continuous Learning Plan developed by the Kansas State Department of Education

Higher education facilities should remain closed for in-person learning or events involving groups of more than 15 individuals Childcare facilities can continue operations pursuant to state and local regulations

The following activities and venues listed should not open during this phase:

Outdoor and indoor large entertainment venues with capacity of 500 or more

Fairs, festivals, carnivals and parades where people gather outside of their vehicles

Summer camps that are not part of a licensed childcare facility

Swimming pools that are not backyard pools or pools used for physical therapy and first responder training

Long-term care and healthcare facilities should follow the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Activities and venues not mentioned above can safely reopen if they:

Maintain 6 feet of distance between all individuals and groups that do not live together in the same residence

Follow cleaning and public health practices and comply with any additional sector specific guidance

Avoid groups larger than 15 where distance cannot be maintained (greater than 15 individuals can occupy a facility if capacity allows for individuals to maintain social distance of 6 feet)

Guidelines for activities and venues such as contact and non-contact sports, outdoor sports courts,&nbsp;playgrounds, outdoor pools, splash pads, museums, farmers markets, community gardens, outdoor restrooms, senior centers, gyms, fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, locker rooms/showers, meeting rooms, and golf, can be found on the Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA) website (<a href="https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf">https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf</a>). Recommendations given by McPherson County Health Department will align with the KRPA guidelines.

Businesses, activities and venues shall follow the mandates from their licensor

Phase 3: Begins no earlier than June 8, 2020

•Gatherings: no more than 45 individuals in a mass gathering where 6-foot social distance cannot be maintained between the individuals

Masks are strongly encouraged in settings where 6-foot distance cannot be maintained

Adhere to personal hygiene guidelines and remain home if ill

High-risk individuals with underlying medical conditions may resume public interactions but should practice social distancing and minimize exposure to situations where precautionary measures may be difficult

May begin reducing telework and start bringing employees back to work in office settings

Avoid gatherings greater than 45 where social distancing protocols cannot be maintained and continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between workstations as employees are phased in

K-12 facilities should continue to follow the guidelines of the Continuous Learning Plan developed by the Kansas Department of Education

Higher education facilities should remain closed for in person learning or events involving groups of more than 45 individuals

Childcare facilities can continue operations pursuant to state and local regulations

The McPherson County Health Department has outlined the county's reopening steps. They are as follows.Effective 12:01 a.m. today, the McPherson County Local Health Officer will be recommending residents of McPherson County follow the guidelines listed below, some of which are set forth in Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas and other relevant national and state-level guidance.Disease spread, hospitalization rates, death rates and the ability to contact trace will be evaluated before recommending McPherson County moves to the next phase. Please be aware if local hospitals begin to be overwhelmed with COVID-19 related patients, the Local Health Officer will implement restrictive orders to support our healthcare infrastructure.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) travel-related quarantine mandate is still in effect and is mandated by McPherson County Health Department as well. An updated travel-related quarantine list can be found within the latest Case Update for McPherson County on <a href="http://mcphersoncountyks.us">mcphersoncountyks.us</a> or by checking the KDHE webpage at <a href="http://coronavirus.kdheks.gov">coronavirus.kdheks.gov</a>.Questions can be submitted to McPherson County Health Department at 620-241-1753 or <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a>.Phase 2: Began May 22, 2020•Gatherings: no more than 15 individuals in a mass gathering where 6-foot social distance cannot be maintained between the individualsIf an event larger than the mass gathering restriction recommendation occurs, we ask that a plan to keep the event safe be submitted to McPherson County Health Department via email at <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a> or via phone at 620-241-1753•Individuals:Masks are strongly encouraged in public settingsMaintain 6-foot social distance in both indoor and outdoor settingsHigh-risk individuals like those with underlying medical conditions should continue to stay home except for essential needs•Employers:Telework is encouraged when possibleEmployees exhibiting illness should be required to stay home and encouraged to seek medical care as necessaryAvoid gatherings greater than 15 where social distancing protocols cannot be maintained and continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between workstations as employees are phased in•Travel:Minimize or avoid travel if it isn’t for medical, family, or business-related needsKDHE travel-related quarantine mandates are still in effect for high-risk areas•Educational Facilities:K-12 facilities should continue to follow the guidelines of the Continuous Learning Plan developed by the Kansas State Department of EducationHigher education facilities should remain closed for in-person learning or events involving groups of more than 15 individuals Childcare facilities can continue operations pursuant to state and local regulations•Activities and Venues:The following activities and venues listed should not open during this phase:Outdoor and indoor large entertainment venues with capacity of 500 or moreFairs, festivals, carnivals and parades where people gather outside of their vehiclesSummer camps that are not part of a licensed childcare facilitySwimming pools that are not backyard pools or pools used for physical therapy and first responder trainingSenior CentersLong-term care and healthcare facilities should follow the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)Activities and venues not mentioned above can safely reopen if they:Maintain 6 feet of distance between all individuals and groups that do not live together in the same residenceFollow cleaning and public health practices and comply with any additional sector specific guidanceAvoid groups larger than 15 where distance cannot be maintained (greater than 15 individuals can occupy a facility if capacity allows for individuals to maintain social distance of 6 feet)Guidelines for activities and venues such as contact and non-contact sports, outdoor sports courts,&nbsp;playgrounds, outdoor pools, splash pads, museums, farmers markets, community gardens, outdoor restrooms, senior centers, gyms, fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, locker rooms/showers, meeting rooms, and golf, can be found on the Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA) website (<a href="https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf">https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf</a>). Recommendations given by McPherson County Health Department will align with the KRPA guidelines.Businesses, activities and venues shall follow the mandates from their licensorPhase 3: Begins no earlier than June 8, 2020•Gatherings: no more than 45 individuals in a mass gathering where 6-foot social distance cannot be maintained between the individualsIf an event larger than the mass gathering restriction recommendation occurs, we ask that a plan to keep the event safe be submitted to McPherson County Health Department via email at <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a> or via phone at 620-241-1753•Individuals:Masks are strongly encouraged in settings where 6-foot distance cannot be maintainedAdhere to personal hygiene guidelines and remain home if illHigh-risk individuals with underlying medical conditions may resume public interactions but should practice social distancing and minimize exposure to situations where precautionary measures may be difficult•Employers:May begin reducing telework and start bringing employees back to work in office settingsEmployees exhibiting illness should be required to stay home and encouraged to seek medical care as necessaryAvoid gatherings greater than 45 where social distancing protocols cannot be maintained and continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between workstations as employees are phased in•Travel:Non-essential travel may resumeKDHE travel-related quarantine mandates are still in effect for high-risk areas•Educational Facilities:K-12 facilities should continue to follow the guidelines of the Continuous Learning Plan developed by the Kansas Department of EducationHigher education facilities should remain closed for in person learning or events involving groups of more than 45 individualsChildcare facilities can continue operations pursuant to state and local regulations•Activities and Venues:All activities and venues can safely reopen if they:Maintain 6 feet of distance between all individuals and groups that do not live together in thensame residenceFollow cleaning and public health practices and comply with any additional sector specificnguidanceAvoid groups larger than 45 where distance cannot be maintained (greater than 45 individualsbcan occupy a facility if capacity allows for individuals to maintain social distance of 6 feet)Long-term care and healthcare facilities should follow the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) but may begin to gradually introduce in-person visits. Screening measures and strict hygiene protocols for visitors should continue.Guidelines for activities and venues such as contact and non-contact sports, outdoor sports courts, playgrounds, outdoor pools, splash pads, museums, farmers markets, community gardens, outdoor restrooms, senior centers, gyms, fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, locker rooms/showers, meeting rooms, and golf, can be found on the Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA) website (<a href="https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf">https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf</a>). Recommendations given by McPherson County Health Department will align with the KRPA guidelines.Businesses, activities and venues shall follow the mandates from their licensor/sectorPhase Out: Begins no earlier than June 22, 2020•Gatherings: maintain social distance where applicable•Individuals: adhere to personal hygiene guidelines and remain home if ill•Employers: follow any sector specific guidelines that may be released•Travel: unrestricted•Educational Facilities: unrestricted unless sector specific guidelines are released•Activities and Venues: unrestrictedLong-term care and healthcare facilities should follow the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).Guidelines for activities and venues such as contact and non-contact sports, outdoor sports courts, playgrounds, outdoor pools, splash pads, museums, farmers markets, community gardens, outdoor restrooms, senior centers, gyms, fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, locker rooms/showers, meeting rooms, and golf, can be found on the Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA) website (<a href="https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf">https://krpa.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/2020/KRPA%20Support%20Guidelines%205.21.20.pdf</a>). Recommendations given by McPherson County Health Department will align with the KRPA guidelines.Businesses, activities and venues shall follow the mandates from their licensor