BATON ROUGE, La. -- The following people recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

Meredith Galloway of Lindsborg at The University of Tulsa

Kristen Reed of Abilene at Washburn University

They are among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States and the Philippines. Its mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others."

BATON ROUGE, La. -- The following people recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.Meredith Galloway of Lindsborg at The University of TulsaKristen Reed of Abilene at Washburn UniversityThey are among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States and the Philippines. Its mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others."

Area students inducted into Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

Today is Thursday, May 21, the 142nd day of 2020. There are 224 days left in the year.

On May 21, 1927, Charles A. Lindbergh landed his Spirit of St. Louis monoplane near Paris, completing the first solo airplane flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 33 1/2 hours.

In 1471, King Henry VI of England died in the Tower of London at age 49.

In 1542, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto died while searching for gold along the Mississippi River.

In 1868, Ulysses S. Grant was nominated for president by the Republican national convention in Chicago.

In 1881, Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross.

In 1892, the opera "Pagliacci," by Ruggero Leoncavallo, premiered in Milan, Italy.

In 1910, a year-old Jewish settlement near the port city of Jaffa adopted the name Tel Aviv (Hebrew for "Hill of Spring").

In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean as she landed in Northern Ireland, about 15 hours after leaving Newfoundland.

In 1941, a German U-boat sank the American merchant steamship SS Robin Moor in the South Atlantic after the ship's passengers and crew were allowed to board lifeboats.

In 1972, Michelangelo's Pieta, on display at the Vatican, was damaged by a hammer-wielding man who shouted he was Jesus Christ.

In 1979, former San Francisco City Supervisor Dan White was convicted of voluntary manslaughter in the slayings of Mayor George Moscone and openly gay Supervisor Harvey Milk; outrage over the verdict sparked rioting. (White was sentenced to seven years and eight months in prison; he ended up serving five years and took his own life in 1985.)

In 1991, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated during national elections by a suicide bomber.

In 2018, Syria's military captured an enclave in southern Damascus from Islamic State militants after a monthlong battle, bringing the entire capital and its suburbs under full government control for the first time since the civil war began in 2011.

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama directed the government to set the first-ever mileage and pollution limits for big trucks and to tighten rules for future cars and SUVs. Citing overwhelming evidence that North Korea had sunk a South Korean warship, the Cheonan, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton warned the reclusive communist state of consequences.

Five years ago: Four Malaysian navy ships began searching for stranded boat people in the first official rescue operation since desperate migrants started washing up on Southeast Asia's shores. The Family Research Council said it had accepted the resignation of Josh Duggar in the wake of the reality TV star's apology for unspecified bad behavior as a young teen. (Duggar later admitted molesting five underage girls as a teenager, including two of his sisters, cheating on his wife and being addicted to pornography; those revelations led to the cancellation of the TLC show "19 Kids and Counting.")

One year ago: As directed by President Donald Trump, former White House Counsel Donald McGahn defied a subpoena from the House Judiciary Committee to testify; McGahn had been a key figure in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, describing ways in which the president sought to curtail the probe. Angered by the empty chair in the hearing room, a growing number of House Democrats pushed for impeachment proceedings against Trump. Sherpa mountaineer Kami Rita extended his record for successful climbs of Mount Everest, ascending the world's highest peak for a 24th time.

Today's Birthdays: Rhythm-and-blues singer Ron Isley (The Isley Brothers) is 79. Rock musician Hilton Valentine (The Animals) is 77. Musician Bill Champlin is 73. Singer Leo Sayer is 72. Actress Carol Potter is 72. Former Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., is 69. Actor Mr. T is 68. Music producer Stan Lynch is 65. Actor Judge Reinhold is 63. Actor-director Nick Cassavetes is 61. Actress Lisa Edelstein is 54. Actress Fairuza Balk is 46. Rock singer-musician Mikel Jollett (Airborne Toxic Event) is 46. Rapper Havoc (Mobb Deep) is 46. Rock musician Tony LoGerfo (Lukas Nelson &amp; Promise of the Real) is 37. Actor Sunkrish Bala is 36. Actor David Ajala is 34. Actress Ashlie Brillault is 33. Country singer Cody Johnson is 33. Actor Scott Leavenworth is 30. Actress Sarah Ramos is 29.

Thought for Today: "Being frustrated is disagreeable, but the real disasters of life begin when you get what you want." — Irving Kristol, American writer (1920-2009).

<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 21, the 142nd day of 2020. There are 224 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 21, 1927, Charles A. Lindbergh landed his Spirit of St. Louis monoplane near Paris, completing the first solo airplane flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 33 1/2 hours.On this date:In 1471, King Henry VI of England died in the Tower of London at age 49.In 1542, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto died while searching for gold along the Mississippi River.In 1868, Ulysses S. Grant was nominated for president by the Republican national convention in Chicago.In 1881, Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross.In 1892, the opera "Pagliacci," by Ruggero Leoncavallo, premiered in Milan, Italy.In 1910, a year-old Jewish settlement near the port city of Jaffa adopted the name Tel Aviv (Hebrew for "Hill of Spring").In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean as she landed in Northern Ireland, about 15 hours after leaving Newfoundland.In 1941, a German U-boat sank the American merchant steamship SS Robin Moor in the South Atlantic after the ship's passengers and crew were allowed to board lifeboats.In 1972, Michelangelo's Pieta, on display at the Vatican, was damaged by a hammer-wielding man who shouted he was Jesus Christ.In 1979, former San Francisco City Supervisor Dan White was convicted of voluntary manslaughter in the slayings of Mayor George Moscone and openly gay Supervisor Harvey Milk; outrage over the verdict sparked rioting. (White was sentenced to seven years and eight months in prison; he ended up serving five years and took his own life in 1985.)In 1991, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated during national elections by a suicide bomber.In 2018, Syria's military captured an enclave in southern Damascus from Islamic State militants after a monthlong battle, bringing the entire capital and its suburbs under full government control for the first time since the civil war began in 2011.Ten years ago: President Barack Obama directed the government to set the first-ever mileage and pollution limits for big trucks and to tighten rules for future cars and SUVs. Citing overwhelming evidence that North Korea had sunk a South Korean warship, the Cheonan, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton warned the reclusive communist state of consequences.Five years ago: Four Malaysian navy ships began searching for stranded boat people in the first official rescue operation since desperate migrants started washing up on Southeast Asia's shores. The Family Research Council said it had accepted the resignation of Josh Duggar in the wake of the reality TV star's apology for unspecified bad behavior as a young teen. (Duggar later admitted molesting five underage girls as a teenager, including two of his sisters, cheating on his wife and being addicted to pornography; those revelations led to the cancellation of the TLC show "19 Kids and Counting.")One year ago: As directed by President Donald Trump, former White House Counsel Donald McGahn defied a subpoena from the House Judiciary Committee to testify; McGahn had been a key figure in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, describing ways in which the president sought to curtail the probe. Angered by the empty chair in the hearing room, a growing number of House Democrats pushed for impeachment proceedings against Trump. Sherpa mountaineer Kami Rita extended his record for successful climbs of Mount Everest, ascending the world's highest peak for a 24th time.Today's Birthdays: Rhythm-and-blues singer Ron Isley (The Isley Brothers) is 79. Rock musician Hilton Valentine (The Animals) is 77. Musician Bill Champlin is 73. Singer Leo Sayer is 72. Actress Carol Potter is 72. Former Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., is 69. Actor Mr. T is 68. Music producer Stan Lynch is 65. Actor Judge Reinhold is 63. Actor-director Nick Cassavetes is 61. Actress Lisa Edelstein is 54. Actress Fairuza Balk is 46. Rock singer-musician Mikel Jollett (Airborne Toxic Event) is 46. Rapper Havoc (Mobb Deep) is 46. Rock musician Tony LoGerfo (Lukas Nelson &amp; Promise of the Real) is 37. Actor Sunkrish Bala is 36. Actor David Ajala is 34. Actress Ashlie Brillault is 33. Country singer Cody Johnson is 33. Actor Scott Leavenworth is 30. Actress Sarah Ramos is 29.Thought for Today: "Being frustrated is disagreeable, but the real disasters of life begin when you get what you want." — Irving Kristol, American writer (1920-2009).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- May 21

With the current restrictions placed over Saline County and surrounding counties, most graduations, end of year performances, and events have been canceled or postponed. Owner Tamara Howe and the staff at the Tamara Howe School of Dance are getting creative in making their end-of-year performance special and memorable for their families, even if it’s through a screen.

The Tamara Howe School of Dance (THSD) “Virtual Recital” performance experience will be Tuesday-June 1 via Zoom. Students will perform their recital dance, take a look back on the highlights and exciting moments throughout the year, and be celebrated! Costumes will be worn and hair and makeup will be done, just like the real show! Parents and families are encouraged to watch the show online and help participate in the technical elements of the show. Some have even created a “stage” in their home for their dancer!

Howe said, “Our end goal to our season was to finish strong and to create a fulfilling and memorable experience for our families. The dancers have been working for 10 weeks and we are excited to give them an opportunity to perform for family and friends. We teach dance, yes, but there’s something really big that we are teaching during this time. We are teaching our students about change and the ability to not only pivot turn in dance, but that we sometimes have to pivot in life too. Although so much has changed and so much is out of our hands, we have to focus on the future and give these children their opportunity to shine!"

THSD will also have an in person taping of their show June 13. During their Red Carpet Recital Experience, dancers will have the opportunity to perform their dance on the Stiefel Theatre stage complete with full lighting and sound. The dances will be professionally videotaped and will then have a special movie premiere event for families from the comfort of their own homes. Of course, the safety of their students, families and staff are at the forefront of any in-person performance and legal guidelines will be followed before any performance date is reached.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590029187924.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With the current restrictions placed over Saline County and surrounding counties, most graduations, end of year performances, and events have been canceled or postponed. Owner Tamara Howe and the staff at the Tamara Howe School of Dance are getting creative in making their end-of-year performance special and memorable for their families, even if it’s through a screen.The Tamara Howe School of Dance (THSD) “Virtual Recital” performance experience will be Tuesday-June 1 via Zoom. Students will perform their recital dance, take a look back on the highlights and exciting moments throughout the year, and be celebrated! Costumes will be worn and hair and makeup will be done, just like the real show! Parents and families are encouraged to watch the show online and help participate in the technical elements of the show. Some have even created a “stage” in their home for their dancer!Howe said, “Our end goal to our season was to finish strong and to create a fulfilling and memorable experience for our families. The dancers have been working for 10 weeks and we are excited to give them an opportunity to perform for family and friends. We teach dance, yes, but there’s something really big that we are teaching during this time. We are teaching our students about change and the ability to not only pivot turn in dance, but that we sometimes have to pivot in life too. Although so much has changed and so much is out of our hands, we have to focus on the future and give these children their opportunity to shine!"THSD will also have an in person taping of their show June 13. During their Red Carpet Recital Experience, dancers will have the opportunity to perform their dance on the Stiefel Theatre stage complete with full lighting and sound. The dances will be professionally videotaped and will then have a special movie premiere event for families from the comfort of their own homes. Of course, the safety of their students, families and staff are at the forefront of any in-person performance and legal guidelines will be followed before any performance date is reached.

Tamara Howe School of Dance to have virtual recital

Saline County Commissioners on Tuesday approved an agreement that is expected to help enhance the safety of county roads.

Commissioners approved an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation for the preparation of a local road safety plan through the state's High Risk Rural Roads program. The plan will serve as a guide for the Road and Bridge Department to improve safety on the roads in Saline County, according to information provided by the county. Saline County will only be responsible for 10 percent of the cost of the project, which amounts to $5,280.98, the county noted.

During the Tuesday meeting, commissioners also gave Rural Fire District No. 1 permission to apply for a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation to provide funding for the purchase of an outdoor warning siren. If purchased, the siren would be placed in Kipp, which currently does not have a siren, the county information noted. Rural Fire District No. 1 has spearheaded this project and has obtained donated funds from Great Plains Manufacturing to aid in the purchase of the siren, according to the county information.

Other business from Tuesday's Saline County Commission meeting includes the following, according to information provided by the county.

•Commissioners appointed Casey Morgan to the Board of Trustees for Rural Fire District No. 2. His term will be for three years, ending Dec. 31, 2022, at which time he will be up for re-appointment.

•Marilyn Leamer, human resources director, provided an update to commissioners. She noted the updates and modifications that were made to policies and the county’s health plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She also noted that the requirement for employees to have their annual physicals was extended to Aug. 31. Additionally, Leamer highlighted the vacant positions for which Saline County is hiring. 

•Rick Lamer, expo center director, told commissioners that since March 12, a total of 68 events were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He said that some events are scheduled in June but those will be contingent on the advancement to the different phases in the governor’s re-opening plan. Additionally, expo and weed staff have been busy with chemical sales and the application of chemicals on the county road right-of-ways. 

•Commissioners also heard a variety of funding requests from allocation agencies including the following.

Kim Norwood from the Tri-Rivers Fair Board asked commissioners for additional funds to help support the cost of an entertainment/concert event at the 2021 Tri-Rivers Fair. Last year Saline County allocated $20,000 for the TriRivers Fair.

Sheila Nelson-Stout from OCCK provided a brief overview of the many programs that OCCK provides. She noted that OCCK will be entering its 50th year of operation. OCCK is not asking for additional allocation of funds in 2021. Last year, Saline County allocated $207,900 for OCCK.

Emily Benedick from the North Central Regional Planning Commission spoke to commissioners about their many different programs that offer assistance to agencies and citizens in Saline County. Saline County has been a member of the

regional planning commission since 1972. Dues are $4,000 for the county and Benedick asked the commissioners for their continued involvement in the organization.

•During his weekly update, County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes told commissioners that the  911 advisory group met last week to discuss the Emergency Radio Communications Project. They reviewed the scores from the evaluation of the request for proposals and the oral presentation of the vendors. The scores were close and it was determined that another meeting will occur next week to determine a recommendation to be brought to the governing bodies.

Additionally, Smith-Hanes reported that the Kansas Department of Commerce announced $9 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding that is available for cities and counties to apply for in response to COVID-19. Cities and counties can apply for these funds to aid local businesses within those communities. Saline County will be applying. The application process does require a public hearing, which will be scheduled for next week.

During announcements, Commission Chair Robert Vidricksen discussed the teleconference that county, city, and community leaders had with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran last week. Each agency was able to speak to Moran about what was occurring in the county and express any concerns or needs to him.

Additionally, County Clerk Jamie Doss had several announcements regarding elections and voting. June 1 at noon is the filing deadline for anyone wishing to run for office. June 1 at noon also is the deadline for individual voters to claim their political party to be able to vote in the August 2020 primary election. 

Doss said her office is sending out a mailer to all active voters in Saline County. The mailer will include information concerning voting, voter registration, and requesting an advanced ballot for both the primary election in August and the general election in November. For voters who are not comfortable with physically going to a polling place, advanced ballots are a great option, she noted. For voter registration and election questions, contact the county clerk’s office at 309-5820.

Saline County Commissioners on Tuesday approved an agreement that is expected to help enhance the safety of county roads.Commissioners approved an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation for the preparation of a local road safety plan through the state's High Risk Rural Roads program. The plan will serve as a guide for the Road and Bridge Department to improve safety on the roads in Saline County, according to information provided by the county. Saline County will only be responsible for 10 percent of the cost of the project, which amounts to $5,280.98, the county noted.During the Tuesday meeting, commissioners also gave Rural Fire District No. 1 permission to apply for a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation to provide funding for the purchase of an outdoor warning siren. If purchased, the siren would be placed in Kipp, which currently does not have a siren, the county information noted. Rural Fire District No. 1 has spearheaded this project and has obtained donated funds from Great Plains Manufacturing to aid in the purchase of the siren, according to the county information.Other business from Tuesday's Saline County Commission meeting includes the following, according to information provided by the county.•Commissioners appointed Casey Morgan to the Board of Trustees for Rural Fire District No. 2. His term will be for three years, ending Dec. 31, 2022, at which time he will be up for re-appointment.•Marilyn Leamer, human resources director, provided an update to commissioners. She noted the updates and modifications that were made to policies and the county’s health plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She also noted that the requirement for employees to have their annual physicals was extended to Aug. 31. Additionally, Leamer highlighted the vacant positions for which Saline County is hiring. •Rick Lamer, expo center director, told commissioners that since March 12, a total of 68 events were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He said that some events are scheduled in June but those will be contingent on the advancement to the different phases in the governor’s re-opening plan. Additionally, expo and weed staff have been busy with chemical sales and the application of chemicals on the county road right-of-ways. •Commissioners also heard a variety of funding requests from allocation agencies including the following.Kim Norwood from the Tri-Rivers Fair Board asked commissioners for additional funds to help support the cost of an entertainment/concert event at the 2021 Tri-Rivers Fair. Last year Saline County allocated $20,000 for the TriRivers Fair.Sheila Nelson-Stout from OCCK provided a brief overview of the many programs that OCCK provides. She noted that OCCK will be entering its 50th year of operation. OCCK is not asking for additional allocation of funds in 2021. Last year, Saline County allocated $207,900 for OCCK.Emily Benedick from the North Central Regional Planning Commission spoke to commissioners about their many different programs that offer assistance to agencies and citizens in Saline County. Saline County has been a member of theregional planning commission since 1972. Dues are $4,000 for the county and Benedick asked the commissioners for their continued involvement in the organization.•During his weekly update, County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes told commissioners that the 911 advisory group met last week to discuss the Emergency Radio Communications Project. They reviewed the scores from the evaluation of the request for proposals and the oral presentation of the vendors. The scores were close and it was determined that another meeting will occur next week to determine a recommendation to be brought to the governing bodies.Additionally, Smith-Hanes reported that the Kansas Department of Commerce announced $9 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding that is available for cities and counties to apply for in response to COVID-19. Cities and counties can apply for these funds to aid local businesses within those communities. Saline County will be applying. The application process does require a public hearing, which will be scheduled for next week.During announcements, Commission Chair Robert Vidricksen discussed the teleconference that county, city, and community leaders had with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran last week. Each agency was able to speak to Moran about what was occurring in the county and express any concerns or needs to him.Additionally, County Clerk Jamie Doss had several announcements regarding elections and voting. June 1 at noon is the filing deadline for anyone wishing to run for office. June 1 at noon also is the deadline for individual voters to claim their political party to be able to vote in the August 2020 primary election. Doss said her office is sending out a mailer to all active voters in Saline County. The mailer will include information concerning voting, voter registration, and requesting an advanced ballot for both the primary election in August and the general election in November. For voters who are not comfortable with physically going to a polling place, advanced ballots are a great option, she noted. For voter registration and election questions, contact the county clerk’s office at 309-5820.

County OKs proposal for road safety plan agreement

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>.

Dickinson County reports third COVID-19 case

Following is Saline County's COVID-19 update for Wednesday.

The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional cases of COVID-19 to report today.

Saline County has had 28 cases. Out of the total number of cases, four citizens continue to be actively monitored and isolated and there have been two deaths. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation.

KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:

•A total of 8,539 cases with 178 deaths reported.

•There have been 62,664 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.

•The age range is 0 years to 100 years (median 42 years).

•In preparation for the upcoming 2020 elections, the Saline County Clerk’s Office is mailing information to all registered voters in Saline County. Included in their mailing is important information about voter registration and applications to receive a ballot by mail if voters wish to do so. Visit their website or contact their office for additional information or questions <a href="http://www.saline.org/departments/elections-office">www.saline.org/departments/elections-office</a> or 785-309-5820.

In addition, the Election Office is actively recruiting poll workers to work on Election Day. Those interested must be a registered voter in Saline County or a 16 or 17-year-old who is otherwise eligible to register to vote, except for not yet being of legal age.

•The City of Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center will reopen on Wednesday, June 3rd with several modifications to its operating hours and procedures. To see their full press release, visit

<a href="http://salina.ks.us/news/?FeedID=5777">http://salina.ks.us/news/?FeedID=5777</a>

Governor Kelly released her plans to move to Phase 2 of the Ad Astra Reopening Plan starting on Friday, May 22nd. All of the updated information has been uploaded to our website: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.

Here are the highlights in Phase 2:

•Mass gatherings of 15 or fewer individuals.

•All businesses/activities allowed in Phase 1 and 1.5 may continue to operate with outlined social distancing, mass gathering, and public health restrictions.

•Nail salons, barbershops, hair salons, tanning salons, tattoo parlors, and other personal service&nbsp; businesses where close contact cannot be avoided may continue to operate, but only for prescheduled appointments.

•Fitness centers and health clubs may continue to operate. In-person group classes will be allowed to begin with groups of no more than 15 individuals at a time. Locker rooms remain closed except for restroom facilities.

•Community Centers may open as long as they follow the mass gatherings and social distancing restrictions. Due to the high-risk population concerns, the Saline County Senior Center will remain closed; but meals on wheels will continue.

•Indoor leisure paces such as movie theaters, trampoline parks, theaters, museums, and bowling allies may open as long as they follow the mass gathering and social distancing restrictions.

•State-owned and operated casinos will be allowed to operate as long as they follow social distancing and mass gathering restrictions.

•Organized sports facilities, games, and sports practice may operate as long as they follow outlined mass gatherings and social distancing guidelines AND follow guidelines established by the Kansas Recreation and Park Association.

•In-person commencement or graduation ceremonies may continue to occur with no more than 15 individuals in a room, gymnasium, or facility at one time so long as 6-foot social distancing is maintained.

Under Phase 2 these are the things that are NOT allowed to take place:

•Opening of bars and night clubs.

•Outdoor and indoor large entertainment venues with a capacity of 2,000 or more.

•Fairs, festivals, carnivals, and parades.

•Swimming pools (other than backyard pools and those used for physical therapy or first-responder training).

•Summer camps unless they are a licensed child care facility.

Reopening Kansas comes by milestones, not on a timetable. Progress will be measured by monitoring our testing rates, COVID-19 hospitalizations, ability to contact trace, and the availability of personal protective equipment. Here’s what you can do to help reach reopening milestones:

•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings.

•Avoid socializing with large groups.

•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs.

•Check-in (via phone/letter/text/email) with friends and family who are isolated.

Help our community in slowing the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Following is Saline County's COVID-19 update for Wednesday.The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional cases of COVID-19 to report today.Saline County has had 28 cases. Out of the total number of cases, four citizens continue to be actively monitored and isolated and there have been two deaths. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation.KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:•A total of 8,539 cases with 178 deaths reported.•There have been 62,664 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.•The age range is 0 years to 100 years (median 42 years).Announcements:•In preparation for the upcoming 2020 elections, the Saline County Clerk’s Office is mailing information to all registered voters in Saline County. Included in their mailing is important information about voter registration and applications to receive a ballot by mail if voters wish to do so. Visit their website or contact their office for additional information or questions <a href="http://www.saline.org/departments/elections-office">www.saline.org/departments/elections-office</a> or 785-309-5820.In addition, the Election Office is actively recruiting poll workers to work on Election Day. Those interested must be a registered voter in Saline County or a 16 or 17-year-old who is otherwise eligible to register to vote, except for not yet being of legal age.•The City of Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center will reopen on Wednesday, June 3rd with several modifications to its operating hours and procedures. To see their full press release, visit<a href="http://salina.ks.us/news/?FeedID=5777">http://salina.ks.us/news/?FeedID=5777</a>Governor Kelly released her plans to move to Phase 2 of the Ad Astra Reopening Plan starting on Friday, May 22nd. All of the updated information has been uploaded to our website: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.Here are the highlights in Phase 2:•Mass gatherings of 15 or fewer individuals.•All businesses/activities allowed in Phase 1 and 1.5 may continue to operate with outlined social distancing, mass gathering, and public health restrictions.•Nail salons, barbershops, hair salons, tanning salons, tattoo parlors, and other personal service&nbsp; businesses where close contact cannot be avoided may continue to operate, but only for prescheduled appointments.•Fitness centers and health clubs may continue to operate. In-person group classes will be allowed to begin with groups of no more than 15 individuals at a time. Locker rooms remain closed except for restroom facilities.•Community Centers may open as long as they follow the mass gatherings and social distancing restrictions. Due to the high-risk population concerns, the Saline County Senior Center will remain closed; but meals on wheels will continue.•Indoor leisure paces such as movie theaters, trampoline parks, theaters, museums, and bowling allies may open as long as they follow the mass gathering and social distancing restrictions.•State-owned and operated casinos will be allowed to operate as long as they follow social distancing and mass gathering restrictions.•Organized sports facilities, games, and sports practice may operate as long as they follow outlined mass gatherings and social distancing guidelines AND follow guidelines established by the Kansas Recreation and Park Association.•In-person commencement or graduation ceremonies may continue to occur with no more than 15 individuals in a room, gymnasium, or facility at one time so long as 6-foot social distancing is maintained.Under Phase 2 these are the things that are NOT allowed to take place:•Opening of bars and night clubs.•Outdoor and indoor large entertainment venues with a capacity of 2,000 or more.•Fairs, festivals, carnivals, and parades.•Swimming pools (other than backyard pools and those used for physical therapy or first-responder training).•Summer camps unless they are a licensed child care facility.Reopening Kansas comes by milestones, not on a timetable. Progress will be measured by monitoring our testing rates, COVID-19 hospitalizations, ability to contact trace, and the availability of personal protective equipment. Here’s what you can do to help reach reopening milestones:•Stay home if you’re sick.•Wear masks in public settings.•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings.•Avoid socializing with large groups.•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs.•Minimize nonessential travel.•Check-in (via phone/letter/text/email) with friends and family who are isolated.•Wash your hands frequently.Help our community in slowing the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Saline County: No new COVID-19 cases to report today

The Texas Tenors are coming to Salina for a benefit performance!

Tony's Pizza Events Center and the ISIS Shrine announced that The Texas Tenors are scheduled to perform a benefit concert for the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children on Sept. 19 at 7:30 pm. 

This one-night-only performance will take place in the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall at Tony’s Pizza Events Center.

The Texas Tenors -- John Hagen, JC Fisher, and Marcus Collins -- are the most successful music group and third highest selling artist in the history of NBC's America's Got Talent! Since appearing on the show in 2009, they have released four studio albums, two PBS specials, four DVDs, and won multiple awards. Their most recent albums "Rise" and "A Collection of Broadway and American Classics" both debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Classical Chart.

These classically trained, versatile tenors have performed more than 1,400 concerts around the world including headlining shows in Las Vegas, China, and a 24-city tour of the United Kingdom. In 2019, they were honored to be included among the top 50 acts in the world, and the only vocal group from the United States invited to compete on NBC’s primetime series "America’s Got Talent: The Champions."

The Texas Tenors performance in Salina is a fundraiser for Shriners Hospitals for Children and is being brought to Salina by the ISIS Shrine. Since 1922, the mission of Shriners Hospitals for Children is to provide the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries, and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered, and collaborative care environment. They also provide for the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals and conduct research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and quality of life of children and families. This mission is carried out without regard to race, color, creed, sex, disability, national origin, or the ability of a patient or family to pay. The ISIS Shrine has been a viable part of the central and western Kansas communities since June 1887. The ISIS Shrine mission is to support

Shriners Hospitals or Children and to ensure all travel expenses of patients and families are covered, no matter the ability of the patient or family to pay.

Platinum VIP tickets are $117 each and include near-stage table seating, a meet and greet opportunity, a signed poster, two drink tickets, appetizers, and early entry. Gold VIP tickets are $89 each and include table seating and a signed poster. General admission tickets are $57 each.

Tickets for The Texas Tenors go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center box office, and online at <a href="http://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com">www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590011877288.jpeg" alt="The Texas Tenors. Photo courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center" />
 <figcaption>The Texas Tenors. Photo courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center</figcaption>
 </figure>The Texas Tenors are coming to Salina for a benefit performance!Tony's Pizza Events Center and the ISIS Shrine announced that The Texas Tenors are scheduled to perform a benefit concert for the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children on Sept. 19 at 7:30 pm. This one-night-only performance will take place in the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall at Tony’s Pizza Events Center.The Texas Tenors -- John Hagen, JC Fisher, and Marcus Collins -- are the most successful music group and third highest selling artist in the history of NBC's America's Got Talent! Since appearing on the show in 2009, they have released four studio albums, two PBS specials, four DVDs, and won multiple awards. Their most recent albums "Rise" and "A Collection of Broadway and American Classics" both debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Classical Chart.These classically trained, versatile tenors have performed more than 1,400 concerts around the world including headlining shows in Las Vegas, China, and a 24-city tour of the United Kingdom. In 2019, they were honored to be included among the top 50 acts in the world, and the only vocal group from the United States invited to compete on NBC’s primetime series "America’s Got Talent: The Champions."The Texas Tenors performance in Salina is a fundraiser for Shriners Hospitals for Children and is being brought to Salina by the ISIS Shrine. Since 1922, the mission of Shriners Hospitals for Children is to provide the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries, and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered, and collaborative care environment. They also provide for the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals and conduct research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and quality of life of children and families. This mission is carried out without regard to race, color, creed, sex, disability, national origin, or the ability of a patient or family to pay. The ISIS Shrine has been a viable part of the central and western Kansas communities since June 1887. The ISIS Shrine mission is to supportShriners Hospitals or Children and to ensure all travel expenses of patients and families are covered, no matter the ability of the patient or family to pay.Platinum VIP tickets are $117 each and include near-stage table seating, a meet and greet opportunity, a signed poster, two drink tickets, appetizers, and early entry. Gold VIP tickets are $89 each and include table seating and a signed poster. General admission tickets are $57 each.Tickets for The Texas Tenors go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center box office, and online at <a href="http://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com">www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com</a>.

The Texas Tenors coming to Salina for benefit concert

Work was to begin today on replacement of a gas line along South Street.

According to information released this afternoon by the City of Salina, today through June 12, Northern Pipeline Construction Company, on behalf of Kansas Gas Service, is scheduled to replace a gas line along South Street from South Fourth Street to South Eleventh Street. 

There will be no parking allowed on the north side of South Street during this time period. 

The South Eighth Street intersection will be closed on the north side of South Street Saturday and Sunday. 

Motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling in the active work area.

Work was to begin today on replacement of a gas line along South Street.According to information released this afternoon by the City of Salina, today through June 12, Northern Pipeline Construction Company, on behalf of Kansas Gas Service, is scheduled to replace a gas line along South Street from South Fourth Street to South Eleventh Street. There will be no parking allowed on the north side of South Street during this time period. The South Eighth Street intersection will be closed on the north side of South Street Saturday and Sunday. Motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling in the active work area.

Gas line being replaced along South Street

Exide Technologies has begun the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process.

Exide announced "a comprehensive strategy to best position its businesses in North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific to benefit its employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders across the globe. This strategy is designed to restore the company’s liquidity, which had deteriorated further as a result of the unprecedented global health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, while the Company pursues a sale of its assets," the company reported in a news release issued Tuesday.&nbsp;

To facilitate a value-maximizing sale of its North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific businesses and further advance ongoing discussions with potential buyers, the Exide and certain of its U.S. subsidiaries have filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.&nbsp;

The company has separately reached an agreement to sell its EMEA and Asia-Pacific business to an ad hoc group of its noteholders, subject to certain conditions outlined in the transaction documents, and subject to higher or better offers. This business is not included in the Chapter 11 proceedings and continues to operate as usual.

“Today’s actions are intended to position our businesses around the world for future growth and profitability while also providing the greatest benefit to our employees, customers, and other stakeholders,” said Tim Vargo, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Exide. “Our board of directors determined that, given the continued, unsustainable impact on our cost structure resulting from legacy liabilities in North America, and in light of the global economic COVID-19 slowdown that has amplified these pressures, a sale of our North American operations through a court-supervised process provides the best opportunity to continue delivering high-quality energy storage solutions and service to our customers.&nbsp;

“We believe this is an attractive business, and we are already advanced in a robust marketing process that includes active engagement with a number of potential strategic and financial buyers,” Vargo continued. “We are pleased with the interest to date and look forward to continued discussions about new ownership that will drive forward our businesses in North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific. I’d like to thank all of our employees for their unwavering commitment and hard work during this time of transition.”

Exide has obtained a commitment for debtor-in-possession (“DIP”) financing of $40 million from a group of lenders, including certain of its existing noteholders. Subject to Court approval, this DIP financing will provide sufficient liquidity to support ongoing operations in North America for the duration of the sale process and restructuring.&nbsp;

To ensure a smooth transition into Chapter 11, the Company filed with the Court a series of customary motions seeking to uphold its commitments to its valued employees, customers, and other stakeholders during the process. These “first day” motions include requests to continue to pay wages and provide benefits to employees in the normal course and otherwise operate the business as usual to facilitate the continued manufacturing and delivery of product to customers, without interruption. The Company is also filing a motion to initiate a competitive bidding process under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code, designed to achieve the highest or otherwise best offers, for the North American, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific businesses. &nbsp;

During the proceedings, Exide is committed to working collaboratively with the relevant local, state, and federal agencies to achieve an orderly transfer or sale of its non-operating properties in the U.S., including its former battery recycling facility in Vernon, California, and ensure they are maintained in a safe and responsible manner.&nbsp;

Capitalizing on the Strength of Operations in EMEA and Asia-Pacific&nbsp;

Separately, Exide has entered into a restructuring support agreement under which an ad hoc group of the Company’s noteholders would acquire its EMEA and Asia-Pacific business, subject to certain conditions outlined in the transaction documents, and subject to higher or better offers. The new owners intend to maintain continued employment of the Company’s workforce in these regions. The agreement includes a “go-shop” period with a bid submission deadline and auction to be held in early July 2020.&nbsp;

“We have been steadily growing revenue and market share in EMEA and Asia-Pacific over the past few years,” said Vargo. “As our lenders have learned more about this business, they were impressed by its growth trajectory, loyal customer base, and talented employees. Their increased support reflects their confidence in our capability to deliver consistent growth and profitability by bringing to market innovative technologies for energy storage across each business segment to benefit our customers. We are pleased to have found a new owner that is committed to supporting the next phase of growth of our business in these regions.”

As part of the agreement, the ad hoc noteholder group has provided additional liquidity of up to $75 million to ensure that business remains in a strong financial position during the adverse economic impacts created by the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;

Vargo continued, “The EMEA and Asia-Pacific business entered the current crisis in good financial health, and we have acted prudently throughout and, in some cases, have drawn on the support mechanisms made available by governments to mitigate the impact of the crisis and associated lockdown. The additional funding provided as part of this agreement will ensure that this business will emerge from the current crisis even stronger.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590006089659.jpeg" alt="The Salina Exide plant at 413 East Berg Road. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Exide plant at 413 East Berg Road. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Exide Technologies has begun the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process.Exide announced "a comprehensive strategy to best position its businesses in North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific to benefit its employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders across the globe. This strategy is designed to restore the company’s liquidity, which had deteriorated further as a result of the unprecedented global health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, while the Company pursues a sale of its assets," the company reported in a news release issued Tuesday.&nbsp;To facilitate a value-maximizing sale of its North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific businesses and further advance ongoing discussions with potential buyers, the Exide and certain of its U.S. subsidiaries have filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.&nbsp;The company has separately reached an agreement to sell its EMEA and Asia-Pacific business to an ad hoc group of its noteholders, subject to certain conditions outlined in the transaction documents, and subject to higher or better offers. This business is not included in the Chapter 11 proceedings and continues to operate as usual.“Today’s actions are intended to position our businesses around the world for future growth and profitability while also providing the greatest benefit to our employees, customers, and other stakeholders,” said Tim Vargo, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Exide. “Our board of directors determined that, given the continued, unsustainable impact on our cost structure resulting from legacy liabilities in North America, and in light of the global economic COVID-19 slowdown that has amplified these pressures, a sale of our North American operations through a court-supervised process provides the best opportunity to continue delivering high-quality energy storage solutions and service to our customers.&nbsp;“We believe this is an attractive business, and we are already advanced in a robust marketing process that includes active engagement with a number of potential strategic and financial buyers,” Vargo continued. “We are pleased with the interest to date and look forward to continued discussions about new ownership that will drive forward our businesses in North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific. I’d like to thank all of our employees for their unwavering commitment and hard work during this time of transition.”Exide has obtained a commitment for debtor-in-possession (“DIP”) financing of $40 million from a group of lenders, including certain of its existing noteholders. Subject to Court approval, this DIP financing will provide sufficient liquidity to support ongoing operations in North America for the duration of the sale process and restructuring.&nbsp;To ensure a smooth transition into Chapter 11, the Company filed with the Court a series of customary motions seeking to uphold its commitments to its valued employees, customers, and other stakeholders during the process. These “first day” motions include requests to continue to pay wages and provide benefits to employees in the normal course and otherwise operate the business as usual to facilitate the continued manufacturing and delivery of product to customers, without interruption. The Company is also filing a motion to initiate a competitive bidding process under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code, designed to achieve the highest or otherwise best offers, for the North American, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific businesses. &nbsp;During the proceedings, Exide is committed to working collaboratively with the relevant local, state, and federal agencies to achieve an orderly transfer or sale of its non-operating properties in the U.S., including its former battery recycling facility in Vernon, California, and ensure they are maintained in a safe and responsible manner.&nbsp;Capitalizing on the Strength of Operations in EMEA and Asia-Pacific&nbsp;Separately, Exide has entered into a restructuring support agreement under which an ad hoc group of the Company’s noteholders would acquire its EMEA and Asia-Pacific business, subject to certain conditions outlined in the transaction documents, and subject to higher or better offers. The new owners intend to maintain continued employment of the Company’s workforce in these regions. The agreement includes a “go-shop” period with a bid submission deadline and auction to be held in early July 2020.&nbsp;“We have been steadily growing revenue and market share in EMEA and Asia-Pacific over the past few years,” said Vargo. “As our lenders have learned more about this business, they were impressed by its growth trajectory, loyal customer base, and talented employees. Their increased support reflects their confidence in our capability to deliver consistent growth and profitability by bringing to market innovative technologies for energy storage across each business segment to benefit our customers. We are pleased to have found a new owner that is committed to supporting the next phase of growth of our business in these regions.”As part of the agreement, the ad hoc noteholder group has provided additional liquidity of up to $75 million to ensure that business remains in a strong financial position during the adverse economic impacts created by the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;Vargo continued, “The EMEA and Asia-Pacific business entered the current crisis in good financial health, and we have acted prudently throughout and, in some cases, have drawn on the support mechanisms made available by governments to mitigate the impact of the crisis and associated lockdown. The additional funding provided as part of this agreement will ensure that this business will emerge from the current crisis even stronger.”

Exide begins bankruptcy process

The Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center (SDRC) is scheduled to reopen on June 3 with several modifications
to its operating hours and procedures, resulting from expected budget
shortfalls due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the April safer-at-home order. 

•Wednesday through Friday, 8
a.m. to 4 p.m.

•Long
     lines are expected during the first few weeks. Please be patient as we
     work to process a higher than normal amount of recyclables.

•There
     may be two lines formed with separate trucks within the fenced-in area, one
     inside the building and one outside the building (on the north side) to
     help facilitate a larger number of customers.

•Motorists
     may be directed to turn left (south) when exiting the facility onto the
     gravel area to prevent traffic jams from the anticipated line of cars and
     the construction on North Street between Santa Fe Avenue and North Ninth
     Street.

•As
     the number of customers is reduced, staff may return to its normal
     operation of a single lane of traffic inside the building only and allow
     exiting in either direction.

•Plastic
     bags will no longer be accepted
     for transporting recyclables (paper, newsprint, plastic containers,
     aluminum, steel, cardboard, etc.). 

•Plastic
     bags will continue to be
     allowed for transporting shredded paper only.

•At about 3:45 p.m.
(Wednesday – Friday) and 11:45 a.m. (Saturdays, a staff member will walk the
line of customers, if any, and inform them the facility will be closing in 15
minutes.

•At 4 p.m. on weekdays and noon
on Saturdays, the gates will be closed. Anyone waiting in line outside the
gates will have to come back when the facility is opened again.

The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility
will remain closed for the time being. A separate announcement will be provided
to the public when it is reopened. &nbsp;

If you have any questions, please call General
Services at (785) 309-5750.

The Salina Drive-thru Recycling Center (SDRC) is scheduled to reopen on June 3 with several modifications
to its operating hours and procedures, resulting from expected budget
shortfalls due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the April safer-at-home order. Temporary hours of operation•Wednesday through Friday, 8
a.m. to 4 p.m.•Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noonVehicle traffic•Long
 lines are expected during the first few weeks. Please be patient as we
 work to process a higher than normal amount of recyclables.•There
 may be two lines formed with separate trucks within the fenced-in area, one
 inside the building and one outside the building (on the north side) to
 help facilitate a larger number of customers.•Motorists
 may be directed to turn left (south) when exiting the facility onto the
 gravel area to prevent traffic jams from the anticipated line of cars and
 the construction on North Street between Santa Fe Avenue and North Ninth
 Street.•As
 the number of customers is reduced, staff may return to its normal
 operation of a single lane of traffic inside the building only and allow
 exiting in either direction.Plastic bags•Plastic
 bags will no longer be accepted
 for transporting recyclables (paper, newsprint, plastic containers,
 aluminum, steel, cardboard, etc.). •Plastic
 bags will continue to be
 allowed for transporting shredded paper only.End-of-day gate closure•At about 3:45 p.m.
(Wednesday – Friday) and 11:45 a.m. (Saturdays, a staff member will walk the
line of customers, if any, and inform them the facility will be closing in 15
minutes.•At 4 p.m. on weekdays and noon
on Saturdays, the gates will be closed. Anyone waiting in line outside the
gates will have to come back when the facility is opened again.The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility
will remain closed for the time being. A separate announcement will be provided
to the public when it is reopened. &nbsp;If you have any questions, please call General
Services at (785) 309-5750.

City announces temporary hours for Drive-thru Recycling Center

An early morning pursuit has led to a police investigation after the vehicle, which was tagged incorrectly, was found abandoned in central Salina.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that at 3:20 a.m. today an officer observed a maroon Chrysler Sebring in the 100 block of Baker Street. The license plate on the car came back as belonging to a 1999 Buick Park Avenue, so the officer attempted a traffic stop at the intersection of South Broadway Boulevard and West Walnut Street, he explained.

The vehicle drove northbound on South Broadway Boulevard and then went east on State Street and jumped the railroad tracks at State Street and West Place, at which point a pursuit was initiated with speeds at approximately 50 mph, Forrester noted. The vehicle then went south onto North 11th Street at approximately 55 mph, he added.

Forrester reported that the vehicle then went down the alley between the 200 block of South 11th Street and the 200 block of South 12th Street, but due to the dust and debris being kicked up, the officer lost sight of the vehicle. A short time later, a Saline County Sheriff's deputy located the vehicle abandoned in the 400 block of South 12th Street with the keys in the console, Forrester explained. 

The vehicle was impounded and the investigation is ongoing, he noted.

An early morning pursuit has led to a police investigation after the vehicle, which was tagged incorrectly, was found abandoned in central Salina.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that at 3:20 a.m. today an officer observed a maroon Chrysler Sebring in the 100 block of Baker Street. The license plate on the car came back as belonging to a 1999 Buick Park Avenue, so the officer attempted a traffic stop at the intersection of South Broadway Boulevard and West Walnut Street, he explained.The vehicle drove northbound on South Broadway Boulevard and then went east on State Street and jumped the railroad tracks at State Street and West Place, at which point a pursuit was initiated with speeds at approximately 50 mph, Forrester noted. The vehicle then went south onto North 11th Street at approximately 55 mph, he added.Forrester reported that the vehicle then went down the alley between the 200 block of South 11th Street and the 200 block of South 12th Street, but due to the dust and debris being kicked up, the officer lost sight of the vehicle. A short time later, a Saline County Sheriff's deputy located the vehicle abandoned in the 400 block of South 12th Street with the keys in the console, Forrester explained. The vehicle was impounded and the investigation is ongoing, he noted.

Early Wednesday morning pursuit ends with car abandoned

Weather History for Wednesday, May 20, 2020, from the National Weather Service:

In 1957, an F4 tornado cut a track of near total devastation from Williamsburg, Kan., through the southeast suburbs of Kansas City. 

The track was 71 miles long and nearly one half mile wide. There 44 deaths and 531 injuries. Of these totals, 7 deaths and 31 injuries occurred in Kansas where many homes were leveled. In Missouri, 37 were killed and 500 more were injured. Most injuries and fatalities were in the Southeast Kansas City suburbs of Ruskin Heights and Hickman Mills where F5 damage may have occurred to housing developments and to some of the 15 stores at a shopping center. 

It was the worst weather related disaster to date in Kansas City. 

The most bizarre incident involved a small house that was destroyed. All that remained was a small table with a fish bowl on top. Reportedly, the fish continued to swim, apparently unconcerned.



Weather History for Wednesday, May 20, 2020, from the National Weather Service:In 1957, an F4 tornado cut a track of near total devastation from Williamsburg, Kan., through the southeast suburbs of Kansas City. The track was 71 miles long and nearly one half mile wide. There 44 deaths and 531 injuries. Of these totals, 7 deaths and 31 injuries occurred in Kansas where many homes were leveled. In Missouri, 37 were killed and 500 more were injured. Most injuries and fatalities were in the Southeast Kansas City suburbs of Ruskin Heights and Hickman Mills where F5 damage may have occurred to housing developments and to some of the 15 stores at a shopping center. It was the worst weather related disaster to date in Kansas City. The most bizarre incident involved a small house that was destroyed. All that remained was a small table with a fish bowl on top. Reportedly, the fish continued to swim, apparently unconcerned.

This Day in Weather History: F4 twister doesn't faze pet fish

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department reported this morning the county's 27th confirmed case of COVID-19.

The newest confirmed case is a female in her 20s with unknown exposure who is recovering at home but who has been residing out of state. 

"She is assigned to us because of her permanent address but does not have any general public contact in McPherson County," the health department noted in a news release.

According to the health department, 22 of the total confirmed cases have now met recovery guidelines set forth by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. One of the 27 remains hospitalized.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department reported this morning the county's 27th confirmed case of COVID-19.The newest confirmed case is a female in her 20s with unknown exposure who is recovering at home but who has been residing out of state. "She is assigned to us because of her permanent address but does not have any general public contact in McPherson County," the health department noted in a news release.According to the health department, 22 of the total confirmed cases have now met recovery guidelines set forth by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. One of the 27 remains hospitalized.

McPherson County reports 27th COVID-19 case

Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner reminds drivers of the importance of seat belts. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:

Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner reminds drivers of the importance of seat belts. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC/">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fvideos%2F665564957338762%2F&show_text=1&width=267" width="267" height="800" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

📹Trooper Ben: Set a positive example for children

If you're making plans for Memorial Day weekend, you might want to take note of the weather.

According to the National Weathe Service (NWS) in Wichita, the threat of thunderstorms will increase over the next several days. 

While it is not expected to rain all day, every day, most days will have at least some potential for thunderstorms, NWS noted. Some of those storms may be severe, with flooding also possible, NWS added. 

Updates will be provided when they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589979845319.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you're making plans for Memorial Day weekend, you might want to take note of the weather.According to the National Weathe Service (NWS) in Wichita, the threat of thunderstorms will increase over the next several days. While it is not expected to rain all day, every day, most days will have at least some potential for thunderstorms, NWS noted. Some of those storms may be severe, with flooding also possible, NWS added. Updates will be provided when they become available.

NWS: Chance for storms Thursday through holiday weekend

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

“We live in unprecedented times and need to take unprecedented measures.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this in the last two or three months. I know it is true, but I sure would like to go back to life before Covid-19. I know it’s wishful thinking, and soon we will be back to the new normal, whatever that will be. However, in the meantime things sure are unsettled.

We see that unease in agriculture too, and it worries me. One good thing is I think we have the general public’s attention.  There are some cracks in our food supply chain and consumers realize that agriculture cannot be taken for granted. That is good. We can do some good when it comes to the public’s awareness of where food on grocery store shelves comes from. But only if we do it in the right way.

We must think our actions through. If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that actions this minute can cause unintended consequences.

English writer G. K. Chesterton summed up the desire to make such changes in 1929 when he wrote, “There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.”

In short, fences don’t build themselves, and people generally don’t spend their time, energy and capital building a fence which has no purpose. Before you change something, you need to understand the reason it was put in place.

That is why I am proud to be part of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are an organization that is grounded in grassroots activism, and we represent all of agriculture. Just by our very nature we are not prone to falling for the issue of the day and a knee jerk reaction. At times it might be frustrating that our reaction time is slowed by the need to gauge the members and develop policy. However, in the end it helps us to think the issues through and make sound decisions.

It is my opinion that Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau will help lead us through this unprecedented time because we represent all farmers and ranchers and we work to be a unified voice. We have the attention of the consumer, and it is important we work in a coordinated effort to make them understand the importance of a strong and resilient food production system. We cannot be using up political capital we are gaining by fighting amongst ourselves.

I agree there are issues that have been highlighted by this crisis and they need to be discussed, but  now is not the time for those discussions. Right now, the fence in the road is how food makes its way from farms and ranches across the country to forks at dining room tables around the globe. This crisis has certainly highlighted some of the challenges on that route, but it’s also given us an opportunity.

I ask that each of us make the effort to share the story of how we are #stillfarming to provide the food to feed a hungry world. This is our time and our opportunity to make an impact; let’s make the most of it.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574091484634.jpeg" alt="Glenn Brunkow. Image courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow. Image courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher“We live in unprecedented times and need to take unprecedented measures.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this in the last two or three months. I know it is true, but I sure would like to go back to life before Covid-19. I know it’s wishful thinking, and soon we will be back to the new normal, whatever that will be. However, in the meantime things sure are unsettled.We see that unease in agriculture too, and it worries me. One good thing is I think we have the general public’s attention. There are some cracks in our food supply chain and consumers realize that agriculture cannot be taken for granted. That is good. We can do some good when it comes to the public’s awareness of where food on grocery store shelves comes from. But only if we do it in the right way.We must think our actions through. If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that actions this minute can cause unintended consequences.English writer G. K. Chesterton summed up the desire to make such changes in 1929 when he wrote, “There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.”In short, fences don’t build themselves, and people generally don’t spend their time, energy and capital building a fence which has no purpose. Before you change something, you need to understand the reason it was put in place.That is why I am proud to be part of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are an organization that is grounded in grassroots activism, and we represent all of agriculture. Just by our very nature we are not prone to falling for the issue of the day and a knee jerk reaction. At times it might be frustrating that our reaction time is slowed by the need to gauge the members and develop policy. However, in the end it helps us to think the issues through and make sound decisions.It is my opinion that Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau will help lead us through this unprecedented time because we represent all farmers and ranchers and we work to be a unified voice. We have the attention of the consumer, and it is important we work in a coordinated effort to make them understand the importance of a strong and resilient food production system. We cannot be using up political capital we are gaining by fighting amongst ourselves.I agree there are issues that have been highlighted by this crisis and they need to be discussed, but now is not the time for those discussions. Right now, the fence in the road is how food makes its way from farms and ranches across the country to forks at dining room tables around the globe. This crisis has certainly highlighted some of the challenges on that route, but it’s also given us an opportunity.I ask that each of us make the effort to share the story of how we are #stillfarming to provide the food to feed a hungry world. This is our time and our opportunity to make an impact; let’s make the most of it."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: The slow, steady course

As part of her commitment to&nbsp;rebuilding&nbsp;Kansas and the economy,&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly today&nbsp;announced the&nbsp;Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce to lead the state’s economic recovery. The taskforce is&nbsp;charged with leading Kansas forward in recovery from the far-reaching effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Recovery&nbsp;Office&nbsp;team will be responsible for the statewide distribution of significant CARES Act funding. A five-member executive committee will oversee the process,&nbsp;and the office will have a steering committee with&nbsp;an additional&nbsp;15 members&nbsp;who will form&nbsp;three subcommittees. The three subcommittees will focus on communication and engagement, finance and policy development and implementation and accountability.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The&nbsp;state’s&nbsp;recovery effort must serve&nbsp;urban and rural areas alike&nbsp;across the state,&nbsp;and all sectors of the economy,”&nbsp;Kelly said. “I am grateful that our team membership reflects these ideals, and I want to thank these leaders for their willingness to serve in such challenged times.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The health and economic challenges COVID-19 inflicted on our state truly are unprecedented – and we must use our collective talents to develop strategies to not only regain what we lost, but build a better, more inclusive and resilient economy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier&nbsp;this month, Governor Kelly announced&nbsp;she had selected&nbsp;Cheryl Harrison-Lee as the Recovery Office’s executive director and Lyle Butler as the chair.&nbsp;Harrison-Lee has more than 30 years of experience in strategic leadership positions in a variety of corporate, entrepreneurial, private and public environments, and Butler&nbsp;has years of experience working with the business community and economic development as the President and CEO&nbsp;of several local Chambers of Commerce, most recently retiring from the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Cheryl and Lyle&nbsp;understand the needs of local communities in Kansas,” Kelly said. “Their experience and dedication will be paramount during our state’s recovery effort and in the statewide distribution of CARES Act funding.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I look forward to working with these committees on a process that ensures transparency, equity and accountability, while leading Kansas’ recovery efforts from this challenging period in the world,” Executive Director Harrison-Lee said.&nbsp;

Other members of the&nbsp;SPARK Taskforce,&nbsp;appointed by the governor,&nbsp;include representatives of the business community, economic development and the Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; These&nbsp;taskforce members&nbsp;are:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Executive Committee&nbsp;&nbsp;

·Tom Bell,&nbsp;President and CEO, Kansas Hospital Association, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;

·Lyle Butler,&nbsp;President and CEO, Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce (retired, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589937527643.jpeg" alt="OCCK 's Shelia Nelson-Stout is part of&nbsp; the SPARK Taskforce. Photo courtesy OCCK" />
 <figcaption>OCCK 's Shelia Nelson-Stout is part of&nbsp; the SPARK Taskforce. Photo courtesy OCCK</figcaption>
 </figure>As part of her commitment to&nbsp;rebuilding&nbsp;Kansas and the economy,&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly today&nbsp;announced the&nbsp;Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce to lead the state’s economic recovery. The taskforce is&nbsp;charged with leading Kansas forward in recovery from the far-reaching effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Recovery&nbsp;Office&nbsp;team will be responsible for the statewide distribution of significant CARES Act funding. A five-member executive committee will oversee the process,&nbsp;and the office will have a steering committee with&nbsp;an additional&nbsp;15 members&nbsp;who will form&nbsp;three subcommittees. The three subcommittees will focus on communication and engagement, finance and policy development and implementation and accountability.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The&nbsp;state’s&nbsp;recovery effort must serve&nbsp;urban and rural areas alike&nbsp;across the state,&nbsp;and all sectors of the economy,”&nbsp;Kelly said. “I am grateful that our team membership reflects these ideals, and I want to thank these leaders for their willingness to serve in such challenged times.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The health and economic challenges COVID-19 inflicted on our state truly are unprecedented – and we must use our collective talents to develop strategies to not only regain what we lost, but build a better, more inclusive and resilient economy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier&nbsp;this month, Governor Kelly announced&nbsp;she had selected&nbsp;Cheryl Harrison-Lee as the Recovery Office’s executive director and Lyle Butler as the chair.&nbsp;Harrison-Lee has more than 30 years of experience in strategic leadership positions in a variety of corporate, entrepreneurial, private and public environments, and Butler&nbsp;has years of experience working with the business community and economic development as the President and CEO&nbsp;of several local Chambers of Commerce, most recently retiring from the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Cheryl and Lyle&nbsp;understand the needs of local communities in Kansas,” Kelly said. “Their experience and dedication will be paramount during our state’s recovery effort and in the statewide distribution of CARES Act funding.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“I look forward to working with these committees on a process that ensures transparency, equity and accountability, while leading Kansas’ recovery efforts from this challenging period in the world,” Executive Director Harrison-Lee said.&nbsp;Other members of the&nbsp;SPARK Taskforce,&nbsp;appointed by the governor,&nbsp;include representatives of the business community, economic development and the Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; These&nbsp;taskforce members&nbsp;are:&nbsp;&nbsp;Executive Committee&nbsp;&nbsp;·Tom Bell,&nbsp;President and CEO, Kansas Hospital Association, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;·Lyle Butler,&nbsp;President and CEO, Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce (retired, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·Senator Jim Denning,&nbsp;Vice President, Discover Vision Centers, Overland Park, Kansas;&nbsp;·Jill Docking, Senior Vice President, The Docking Group – Baird Financial, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·Alise&nbsp;Martiny,&nbsp;Business Manager, Greater KC Building and Trades Council, Shawnee, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Steering Committee&nbsp;&nbsp;·Natalie Haag, Attorney, Capitol Federal Savings, Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;·David Harwood, Senior Vice President, Terracon&nbsp;Consultants&nbsp;&amp; Chair,&nbsp;KANSASWorks&nbsp;State Board,&nbsp;Olathe, Kansas;&nbsp;·Senator Tom Hawk, Ranking Minority Member, Senate Ways and Means Committee, Manhattan, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·Representative Dan Hawkins, House Majority Leader, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;·Edward Honesty, Jr., President &amp; Chief Operating Officer, Best Harvest Bakeries, Kansas City, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;·Chuck&nbsp;Mageral, Proprietor, Free State Brewing Company, Lawrence, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;·David McCarty, Owner, McCarty Family Farms, Colby, Kansas;&nbsp;·Senator Carolyn McGinn,&nbsp;Chair, Senate Ways and Means Committee, Sedgwick, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·Shelia Nelson-Stout, President and CEO, OCCK, Inc., Salina, Kansas;&nbsp;·Neelima&nbsp;Parasker, President &amp; CEO,&nbsp;SnapIT&nbsp;Solutions, Overland Park, Kansas;&nbsp;·Jim Robinson, Partner, Hite Fanning &amp;&nbsp;Honeyman, Wichita, Kansas;&nbsp;·Secretary David Toland, Department of Commerce,&nbsp;Topeka, Kansas;&nbsp;·Representative Troy&nbsp;Waymaster,&nbsp;Chair, House Appropriations Committee,&nbsp;Bunker Hill, Kansas;&nbsp;&nbsp;·Representative Kathy Wolfe-Moore,&nbsp; Ranking&nbsp; Minority&nbsp; Member, House Appropriations Committee, Kansas City, Kansas.&nbsp;The final member of the taskforce will be a representative of the aviation industry and will be announced at a future&nbsp;date.&nbsp;Over the coming days and weeks,&nbsp;information on the Recovery Office&nbsp;and the SPARK Taskforce&nbsp;can be found at covid.ks.gov.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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