By RON WILSON Kansas State University

“I cannot see, but I have a vision.” That statement from a blind educator in Ethiopia might introduce a visionary program through which rural Kansans are helping encourage literacy halfway around the globe.

LeAnn and Stan Clark and Laurie Curtis shared the story of this innovative nonprofit organization known as Ethiopia Reads. They told about Jane Kurtz, the co-founder of Ethiopia Reads, who had grown up in Ethiopia where her father was a missionary pilot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jane moved back to the United States, married a Presbyterian minister, and became a children’s book writer. Several of her books drew on her years growing up in Ethiopia.

An Ethiopian refugee in the U.S. came across her books and was touched. He contacted Jane and encouraged her to develop literacy in Ethiopia and send children’s books there. That was the beginning of Ethiopia Reads.

Jane Kurtz received a grant from North Dakota Presbyterian churches to gather books and send them to Ethiopia. She and her husband later moved to be near his parents at Moundridge, where they met LeAnn Clark.

LeAnn had grown up in Chapman, where she met her future husband Stan. They both went on to K-State. He was an agricultural engineer, and LeAnn became a teacher in the rural community of Hesston, population 3,709 people. Now, that’s rural.

In 2004, LeAnn was president of the Kansas Reading Association. She wanted her organization to take on an international project. She found such a project when she met Jane and learned about Ethiopia Reads.

Laurie Curtis also joined in this effort. At the time, she was director of the Reading Specialist program in the College of Education at K-State. She is an international expert on literacy and early childhood education. Now retired, she serves on the board of Ethiopia Reads.

“Early literacy is almost nonexistent in Ethiopia,” Curtis said. “They need books to read in order to learn.” LeAnn and Stan Clark took on the task of gathering books to send to Ethiopia. They received donations of children’s books from schools, libraries, and individuals. They sorted and packaged the books. The organization raised funds to send a shipping container of books to Ethiopia.

Meanwhile, Curtis’ colleague, Jackie Spears wrote a grant to bring U.S. teachers to Ethiopia to teach reading skills. They found that the needs in Ethiopia were immense.

Children’s books were almost never present in homes. In the few libraries that existed, the librarian’s typical role was to be a gatekeeper to protect the books rather than helping kids read them. For example, the Americans stopped at one library in Ethiopia and asked where the children’s section was located. “Oh, we don’t have a children’s section,” was the response. “If we did, children might come in.”

Curtis set out to change that mindset and help people in Ethiopia enhance their children’s lives by developing a librarian training curriculum. LeAnn and Stan Clark continued to volunteer to gather, sort, label and ship books.&nbsp;

To date, Ethiopia Reads has started 80 public-, school- and mobile libraries serving 100,000 children annually. The organization has trained 450 librarians and teachers and has donated and distributed 200,000 Ethiopian- and English-language books to more than 350 schools in every region of Ethiopia. In the remote regions, the mobile libraries literally consist of horses carrying books in saddlebags or a book cart pulled by a donkey.

“Training of librarians is so important,” Curtis said. Ethiopia Reads has hosted several training conferences in Addis Ababa. In March 2020, some 170 people attended the Children’s Reading Summit. “A small but energetic Ethiopian staff manages all the Ethiopia Reads programs within the country,” Curtis said.

“We’ve met some amazing people, and we’ve had great community support,” LeAnn said. “We’re accepting books as well as monetary donations. I’m so proud of the way this organization works.”

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ethiopiareads.org/" target="_blank">www.ethiopiareads.org</a>.

We commend LeAnn and Stan Clark, Laurie Curtis, and all those involved with Ethiopia Reads who are making a difference by changing lives through childhood literacy. Their vision is coming true.

Audio and text files of Kansas Profiles are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprofile.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kansasprofile.com</a>. For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.

Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590949523072.jpeg" alt="An Ethiopia Reads horseback library. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>An Ethiopia Reads horseback library. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State University“I cannot see, but I have a vision.” That statement from a blind educator in Ethiopia might introduce a visionary program through which rural Kansans are helping encourage literacy halfway around the globe.LeAnn and Stan Clark and Laurie Curtis shared the story of this innovative nonprofit organization known as Ethiopia Reads. They told about Jane Kurtz, the co-founder of Ethiopia Reads, who had grown up in Ethiopia where her father was a missionary pilot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jane moved back to the United States, married a Presbyterian minister, and became a children’s book writer. Several of her books drew on her years growing up in Ethiopia.An Ethiopian refugee in the U.S. came across her books and was touched. He contacted Jane and encouraged her to develop literacy in Ethiopia and send children’s books there. That was the beginning of Ethiopia Reads.Jane Kurtz received a grant from North Dakota Presbyterian churches to gather books and send them to Ethiopia. She and her husband later moved to be near his parents at Moundridge, where they met LeAnn Clark.LeAnn had grown up in Chapman, where she met her future husband Stan. They both went on to K-State. He was an agricultural engineer, and LeAnn became a teacher in the rural community of Hesston, population 3,709 people. Now, that’s rural.In 2004, LeAnn was president of the Kansas Reading Association. She wanted her organization to take on an international project. She found such a project when she met Jane and learned about Ethiopia Reads.Laurie Curtis also joined in this effort. At the time, she was director of the Reading Specialist program in the College of Education at K-State. She is an international expert on literacy and early childhood education. Now retired, she serves on the board of Ethiopia Reads.“Early literacy is almost nonexistent in Ethiopia,” Curtis said. “They need books to read in order to learn.” LeAnn and Stan Clark took on the task of gathering books to send to Ethiopia. They received donations of children’s books from schools, libraries, and individuals. They sorted and packaged the books. The organization raised funds to send a shipping container of books to Ethiopia.Meanwhile, Curtis’ colleague, Jackie Spears wrote a grant to bring U.S. teachers to Ethiopia to teach reading skills. They found that the needs in Ethiopia were immense.Children’s books were almost never present in homes. In the few libraries that existed, the librarian’s typical role was to be a gatekeeper to protect the books rather than helping kids read them. For example, the Americans stopped at one library in Ethiopia and asked where the children’s section was located. “Oh, we don’t have a children’s section,” was the response. “If we did, children might come in.”Curtis set out to change that mindset and help people in Ethiopia enhance their children’s lives by developing a librarian training curriculum. LeAnn and Stan Clark continued to volunteer to gather, sort, label and ship books.&nbsp;To date, Ethiopia Reads has started 80 public-, school- and mobile libraries serving 100,000 children annually. The organization has trained 450 librarians and teachers and has donated and distributed 200,000 Ethiopian- and English-language books to more than 350 schools in every region of Ethiopia. In the remote regions, the mobile libraries literally consist of horses carrying books in saddlebags or a book cart pulled by a donkey.“Training of librarians is so important,” Curtis said. Ethiopia Reads has hosted several training conferences in Addis Ababa. In March 2020, some 170 people attended the Children’s Reading Summit. “A small but energetic Ethiopian staff manages all the Ethiopia Reads programs within the country,” Curtis said.“We’ve met some amazing people, and we’ve had great community support,” LeAnn said. “We’re accepting books as well as monetary donations. I’m so proud of the way this organization works.”For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ethiopiareads.org/" target="_blank">www.ethiopiareads.org</a>.We commend LeAnn and Stan Clark, Laurie Curtis, and all those involved with Ethiopia Reads who are making a difference by changing lives through childhood literacy. Their vision is coming true.Audio and text files of Kansas Profiles are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprofile.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kansasprofile.com</a>. For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.

Now That’s Rural: LeAnn Clark & Laurie Curtis, Ethiopia Reads

WICHITA – With warm weather arriving and states beginning to lift restrictions on non-essential travel, many families may have a vacation on their minds.  Road trips can offer a safe and budget-friendly opportunity to travel. Whether journeys reach near or far, plan with safety considerations should be included in trip preparations.

“The great American road trip is still one of the best ways to extend family bonding while exploring stateside destinations,” says Shawn Steward, AAA Kansas spokesman. “Regardless of where you’re headed, planning ahead ensures your travel experience will be both safe and enjoyable.”

AAA offers the following tips for planning a family road trip including a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306537&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">special map to navigate travel rules and restrictions</a>:

Remember Safety First: Don’t travel if you are sick&nbsp;or plan to travel with someone who is sick. Pack face masks, gloves and products to sanitize cars and surfaces for the trip. Plan to make as few stops as possible, but make sure to rest when drowsy or sleepy. Make sure everyone is restrained by seat belts or a child safety seat to prevent injury in case of a sudden stop, swerve or crash. Respect social distancing guidelines set by health officials.

Plan Ahead with A Trusted Travel Agent:&nbsp;Careful planning and preparation can make the difference between a well-enjoyed vacation and a travel nightmare. Leveraging the expertise of a travel professional has never been more important.With the list of AAA Approved and Diamond Rated Hotels, AAA travel experts can help you navigate the hotel recommendations based on acceptable cleanliness, comfort and hospitality for nearly 60,000 properties.&nbsp;You can also visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306536&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com/Diamonds</a>&nbsp;to find an inspector approved local hotel in the destination city that will meet your needs.

The Centers for Disease Control also recommends that travelers clean and disinfect all high-touch hotel surfaces. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, remote controls, toilets, and sink faucets. Bring an EPA-registered disinfectant and other personal&nbsp;cleaning supplies.

Check Destination Business Operations/Local State Restrictions: AAA has a special online&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306535&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID-19 Travel Restrictions</a>map of the United States to help travelers keep track of the ever changing landscape of rules and regulations, paramount to ensuring a SAFE and fun-filled family vacation. Review the operational hours and protocols of destination attractions, rest stops and more along your travel route. Closures, stay-at-home orders and quarantine rules vary greatly across states, and even among various counties and cities within the states.

Prepare Your Vehicle: Due to stay-at-home orders, many vehicles may have not been driven in months. Prior to a road trip, check out your vehicle by taking it to a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306534&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">trusted repair facility</a>&nbsp;to perform maintenance such as battery, tire, brake and fluid checks. Be prepared for emergencies with a mobile phone and car charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a basic toolkit with reflectors or emergency flares, and drinking water and snacks for passengers. Families can also have puzzles, a charged iPad and books for kids to keep them entertained while in the car.

Limit Distractions: Keep attention on the road by pre-programing GPS devices and adjusting seats and mirrors before heading out. Allow a driver to remain focused safely on driving by enlisting the help of passengers. Don’t use handheld or hands-free cell phones while behind the wheel.

<a href="file:///C:/Users/ssteward/Documents/Kansas%20Press%20Releases/aaa.com/roadtrip" target="_blank">AAA.com/RoadTrip</a>&nbsp;is a free resource to help travelers find inspiration, explore destinations, plan the perfect route and get their vehicle road trip ready. &nbsp;AAA Travel is also offering&nbsp;Virtual Travel Events&nbsp;with expert road trip advice.&nbsp; Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306533&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA Virtual Travel Road Trip Events</a>&nbsp;to register for the free June 2nd or June 4th events.

About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 60 million members nationwide and nearly 347,000 members in Kansas. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.&nbsp;AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, non-profit corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306532&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306531&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590934779491.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy AAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy AAA</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – With warm weather arriving and states beginning to lift restrictions on non-essential travel, many families may have a vacation on their minds. Road trips can offer a safe and budget-friendly opportunity to travel. Whether journeys reach near or far, plan with safety considerations should be included in trip preparations.“The great American road trip is still one of the best ways to extend family bonding while exploring stateside destinations,” says Shawn Steward, AAA Kansas spokesman. “Regardless of where you’re headed, planning ahead ensures your travel experience will be both safe and enjoyable.”AAA offers the following tips for planning a family road trip including a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306537&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">special map to navigate travel rules and restrictions</a>:Remember Safety First: Don’t travel if you are sick&nbsp;or plan to travel with someone who is sick. Pack face masks, gloves and products to sanitize cars and surfaces for the trip. Plan to make as few stops as possible, but make sure to rest when drowsy or sleepy. Make sure everyone is restrained by seat belts or a child safety seat to prevent injury in case of a sudden stop, swerve or crash. Respect social distancing guidelines set by health officials.Plan Ahead with A Trusted Travel Agent:&nbsp;Careful planning and preparation can make the difference between a well-enjoyed vacation and a travel nightmare. Leveraging the expertise of a travel professional has never been more important.With the list of AAA Approved and Diamond Rated Hotels, AAA travel experts can help you navigate the hotel recommendations based on acceptable cleanliness, comfort and hospitality for nearly 60,000 properties.&nbsp;You can also visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306536&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com/Diamonds</a>&nbsp;to find an inspector approved local hotel in the destination city that will meet your needs.The Centers for Disease Control also recommends that travelers clean and disinfect all high-touch hotel surfaces. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, remote controls, toilets, and sink faucets. Bring an EPA-registered disinfectant and other personal&nbsp;cleaning supplies.Check Destination Business Operations/Local State Restrictions: AAA has a special online&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306535&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID-19 Travel Restrictions</a>map of the United States to help travelers keep track of the ever changing landscape of rules and regulations, paramount to ensuring a SAFE and fun-filled family vacation. Review the operational hours and protocols of destination attractions, rest stops and more along your travel route. Closures, stay-at-home orders and quarantine rules vary greatly across states, and even among various counties and cities within the states.Prepare Your Vehicle: Due to stay-at-home orders, many vehicles may have not been driven in months. Prior to a road trip, check out your vehicle by taking it to a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306534&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">trusted repair facility</a>&nbsp;to perform maintenance such as battery, tire, brake and fluid checks. Be prepared for emergencies with a mobile phone and car charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a basic toolkit with reflectors or emergency flares, and drinking water and snacks for passengers. Families can also have puzzles, a charged iPad and books for kids to keep them entertained while in the car.Limit Distractions: Keep attention on the road by pre-programing GPS devices and adjusting seats and mirrors before heading out. Allow a driver to remain focused safely on driving by enlisting the help of passengers. Don’t use handheld or hands-free cell phones while behind the wheel.<a href="file:///C:/Users/ssteward/Documents/Kansas%20Press%20Releases/aaa.com/roadtrip" target="_blank">AAA.com/RoadTrip</a>&nbsp;is a free resource to help travelers find inspiration, explore destinations, plan the perfect route and get their vehicle road trip ready. &nbsp;AAA Travel is also offering&nbsp;Virtual Travel Events&nbsp;with expert road trip advice.&nbsp; Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306533&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA Virtual Travel Road Trip Events</a>&nbsp;to register for the free June 2nd or June 4th events.About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 60 million members nationwide and nearly 347,000 members in Kansas. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.&nbsp;AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, non-profit corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306532&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8271%3a4-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=306531&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The great American road trip: AAA offers tips on traveling

Today is Sunday, May 31, the 152nd day of 2020. There are 214 days left in the year.

On May 31, 1921, a race riot erupted in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as white mobs began looting and leveling the affluent black district of Greenwood over reports a black man had assaulted a white woman in an elevator; hundreds are believed to have died.

In 1859, the Big Ben clock tower in London went into operation, chiming for the first time.

In 1889, some 2,200 people in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, perished when the South Fork Dam collapsed, sending 20 million tons of water rushing through the town.

In 1910, the Union of South Africa was founded.

In 1949, former State Department official and accused spy Alger Hiss went on trial in New York, charged with perjury (the jury deadlocked, but Hiss was convicted in a second trial).

In 1961, South Africa became an independent republic as it withdrew from the British Commonwealth.

In 1962, former Nazi official Adolf Eichmann was hanged in Israel a few minutes before midnight for his role in the Holocaust.

In 1970, a magnitude 7.9 earthquake in Peru claimed an estimated 67,000 lives.

In 1977, the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline, three years in the making despite objections from environmentalists and Alaska Natives, was completed. (The first oil began flowing through the pipeline 20 days later.)

In 1990, President George H.W. Bush welcomed Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev to Washington for a summit meeting. The situation comedy "Seinfeld" began airing as a regular series on NBC.

In 2005, breaking a silence of 30 years, former FBI official W. Mark Felt stepped forward as "Deep Throat," the secret Washington Post source during the Watergate scandal.

In 2009, Dr. George Tiller, a rare provider of late-term abortions, was shot and killed in a Wichita, Kansas, church. (Gunman Scott Roeder was later convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole for 50 years.) Millvina Dean, the last survivor of the 1912 sinking of the RMS Titanic, died in Southampton, England at 97.

In 2014, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, the only American soldier held prisoner in Afghanistan, was freed by the Taliban in exchange for five Afghan detainees from the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. (Bergdahl, who'd gone missing in June 2009, later pleaded guilty to endangering his comrades by walking away from his post in Afghanistan; his sentence included a dishonorable discharge, a reduction in rank and a fine, but no prison time.)

Ten years ago: Israeli commandos stormed six ships carrying hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists on an aid mission to the blockaded Gaza Strip; eight Turkish activists and one Turkish-American were killed aboard one vessel, with each side accusing the other of starting the violence. Al-Qaida announced that its No. 3 official, Mustafa al-Yazid, had been killed along with members of his family. (A U.S. official said al-Yazid was believed to have died in a U.S. missile strike.) Artist Louise Bourgeois, 98, died in New York. Chris Haney, 59, co-creator of the popular Trivial Pursuit board game, died in Toronto.

Five years ago: The U.S. Senate held an extraordinary Sunday session during which it failed to produce an 11th-hour deal to extend the National Security Agency's authority to collect Americans' phone records in bulk. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry broke his leg in a bicycle crash near Geneva, forcing him to return to the U.S. for treatment and to scrap the rest of a four-nation trip. Jim Bailey, 77, a singer-actor who transformed himself into such show biz legends as Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand and Peggy Lee during a career that spanned decades, died in Los Angeles. Harriette Thompson of Charlotte, North Carolina, a 92-year-old cancer survivor, became the oldest woman to finish a marathon as she completed the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in San Diego in 7:24:36.

One year ago: A longtime city employee opened fire in a municipal building in Virginia Beach, Virginia, killing 12 people on three floors before police shot and killed him; officials said DeWayne Craddock had resigned by email hours before the shooting. As he prepared for a three-day visit to Britain, President Donald Trump told the British tabloid The Sun that Boris Johnson would make an "excellent" prime minister; he also called Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, "nasty." Relentless flooding in the central U.S. inundated communities and damaged or spilled over levees on three major rivers in two states.

Today's Birthdays: Actor-director Clint Eastwood is 90. Singer Peter Yarrow is 82. Humanitarian and author Terry Waite is 81. Singer-musician Augie Meyers is 80. Actress Sharon Gless is 77. Football Hall of Famer Joe Namath is 77. Broadcast journalist/commentator Bernard Goldberg is 75. Actor Tom Berenger is 70. Actor Gregory Harrison is 70. Actor Kyle Secor is 63. Actress Roma Maffia is 62. Comedian Chris Elliott is 60. Actress Lea Thompson is 59. Singer Corey Hart is 58. Actor Hugh Dillon is 57. Rapper DMC is 56. Actress Brooke Shields is 55. Country musician Ed Adkins (The Derailers) is 53. TV host Phil Keoghan is 53. Jazz musician Christian McBride is 48. Actress Archie Panjabi is 48. Actress Merle Dandridge (TV: "Greenleaf") is 45. Actor Colin Farrell is 44. Rock musician Scott Klopfenstein (Reel Big Fish) is 43. Actor Eric Christian Olsen is 43. Rock musician Andy Hurley (Fall Out Boy) is 40. Country singer Casey James (TV: "American Idol") is 38. Actor Jonathan Tucker is 38. Rapper Waka Flocka Flame is 34. Actor Curtis Williams Jr. is 33. Pop singer Normani Hamilton (Fifth Harmony) is 24.

Thought for Today: "The future is no more uncertain than the present." — Walt Whitman, American poet (born this date in 1819, died 1892).

<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 Sunday, May 31, the 152nd day of 2020. There are 214 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 31, 1921, a race riot erupted in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as white mobs began looting and leveling the affluent black district of Greenwood over reports a black man had assaulted a white woman in an elevator; hundreds are believed to have died.On this date:In 1859, the Big Ben clock tower in London went into operation, chiming for the first time.In 1889, some 2,200 people in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, perished when the South Fork Dam collapsed, sending 20 million tons of water rushing through the town.In 1910, the Union of South Africa was founded.In 1949, former State Department official and accused spy Alger Hiss went on trial in New York, charged with perjury (the jury deadlocked, but Hiss was convicted in a second trial).In 1961, South Africa became an independent republic as it withdrew from the British Commonwealth.In 1962, former Nazi official Adolf Eichmann was hanged in Israel a few minutes before midnight for his role in the Holocaust.In 1970, a magnitude 7.9 earthquake in Peru claimed an estimated 67,000 lives.In 1977, the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline, three years in the making despite objections from environmentalists and Alaska Natives, was completed. (The first oil began flowing through the pipeline 20 days later.)In 1990, President George H.W. Bush welcomed Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev to Washington for a summit meeting. The situation comedy "Seinfeld" began airing as a regular series on NBC.In 2005, breaking a silence of 30 years, former FBI official W. Mark Felt stepped forward as "Deep Throat," the secret Washington Post source during the Watergate scandal.In 2009, Dr. George Tiller, a rare provider of late-term abortions, was shot and killed in a Wichita, Kansas, church. (Gunman Scott Roeder was later convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole for 50 years.) Millvina Dean, the last survivor of the 1912 sinking of the RMS Titanic, died in Southampton, England at 97.In 2014, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, the only American soldier held prisoner in Afghanistan, was freed by the Taliban in exchange for five Afghan detainees from the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. (Bergdahl, who'd gone missing in June 2009, later pleaded guilty to endangering his comrades by walking away from his post in Afghanistan; his sentence included a dishonorable discharge, a reduction in rank and a fine, but no prison time.)Ten years ago: Israeli commandos stormed six ships carrying hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists on an aid mission to the blockaded Gaza Strip; eight Turkish activists and one Turkish-American were killed aboard one vessel, with each side accusing the other of starting the violence. Al-Qaida announced that its No. 3 official, Mustafa al-Yazid, had been killed along with members of his family. (A U.S. official said al-Yazid was believed to have died in a U.S. missile strike.) Artist Louise Bourgeois, 98, died in New York. Chris Haney, 59, co-creator of the popular Trivial Pursuit board game, died in Toronto.Five years ago: The U.S. Senate held an extraordinary Sunday session during which it failed to produce an 11th-hour deal to extend the National Security Agency's authority to collect Americans' phone records in bulk. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry broke his leg in a bicycle crash near Geneva, forcing him to return to the U.S. for treatment and to scrap the rest of a four-nation trip. Jim Bailey, 77, a singer-actor who transformed himself into such show biz legends as Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand and Peggy Lee during a career that spanned decades, died in Los Angeles. Harriette Thompson of Charlotte, North Carolina, a 92-year-old cancer survivor, became the oldest woman to finish a marathon as she completed the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in San Diego in 7:24:36.One year ago: A longtime city employee opened fire in a municipal building in Virginia Beach, Virginia, killing 12 people on three floors before police shot and killed him; officials said DeWayne Craddock had resigned by email hours before the shooting. As he prepared for a three-day visit to Britain, President Donald Trump told the British tabloid The Sun that Boris Johnson would make an "excellent" prime minister; he also called Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, "nasty." Relentless flooding in the central U.S. inundated communities and damaged or spilled over levees on three major rivers in two states.Today's Birthdays: Actor-director Clint Eastwood is 90. Singer Peter Yarrow is 82. Humanitarian and author Terry Waite is 81. Singer-musician Augie Meyers is 80. Actress Sharon Gless is 77. Football Hall of Famer Joe Namath is 77. Broadcast journalist/commentator Bernard Goldberg is 75. Actor Tom Berenger is 70. Actor Gregory Harrison is 70. Actor Kyle Secor is 63. Actress Roma Maffia is 62. Comedian Chris Elliott is 60. Actress Lea Thompson is 59. Singer Corey Hart is 58. Actor Hugh Dillon is 57. Rapper DMC is 56. Actress Brooke Shields is 55. Country musician Ed Adkins (The Derailers) is 53. TV host Phil Keoghan is 53. Jazz musician Christian McBride is 48. Actress Archie Panjabi is 48. Actress Merle Dandridge (TV: "Greenleaf") is 45. Actor Colin Farrell is 44. Rock musician Scott Klopfenstein (Reel Big Fish) is 43. Actor Eric Christian Olsen is 43. Rock musician Andy Hurley (Fall Out Boy) is 40. Country singer Casey James (TV: "American Idol") is 38. Actor Jonathan Tucker is 38. Rapper Waka Flocka Flame is 34. Actor Curtis Williams Jr. is 33. Pop singer Normani Hamilton (Fifth Harmony) is 24.Thought for Today: "The future is no more uncertain than the present." — Walt Whitman, American poet (born this date in 1819, died 1892).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- May 31

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — A rocket ship designed and built by Elon Musk’s SpaceX company has lifted off with two Americans on a history-making flight to the International Space Station.

<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html#public">Click here</a>&nbsp;to watch additional coverage of the flight from NASA

The spacecraft took off Saturday afternoon from the same launch pad at Cape Canaveral, Florida, that was used during the Apollo missions to the moon a half-century ago. The flight ushers in a new era in commercial space travel and marks the first time NASA has launched astronauts from U.S. soil in nearly a decade. Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian rockets launched from Kazakhstan to take U.S. astronauts took and from the space station.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Despite more storms in the forecast, two NASA astronauts climbed into their capsule Saturday for a second attempt at a history-making ride into orbit aboard a rocket ship designed and built by Elon Musk’s SpaceX company.

<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html#public">Click here</a>&nbsp;to watch the launch&nbsp;

With the flight already delayed three days by bad weather, forecasters put the odds of acceptable conditions at 50-50 for the 2:22 p.m. CDT liftoff of the 270-foot Falcon 9 in what would be the first launch of astronauts into orbit by a private company.

Their destination: the International Space Station, 250 miles above Earth.

It would also be NASA’s first human spaceflight launched from U.S. soil in nearly a decade.

The mission unfolded amid the gloom of the coronavirus outbreak, which has killed over 100,000 Americans, and racial unrest across the U.S. over the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man, at the hands of Minneapolis police. NASA officials and others held out hope the flight would would lift American spirits.

“Maybe there’s an opportunity here for America to maybe pause and look up and see a bright, shining moment of hope at what the future looks like, that the United States of America can do extraordinary things even in difficult times,” NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said.

Veteran astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken pulled on their angular, white-and-black spacesuits with help from technicians wearing masks, gloves and black hoods that made them look like ninjas.

Before setting out for the launch pad in a gull-wing Tesla SUV — another Musk product — Behnken pantomimed a hug of his 6-year-old son, Theo, and said: “Are you going to listen to Mommy and make her life easy?” Hurley blew kisses to his 10-year-old son and wife.

SpaceX and NASA monitored the weather not just at Kennedy Space Center, where rain, thick clouds and the chance of lightning threatened another postponement, but all the way up the Eastern Seaboard and across the North Atlantic to Ireland. Waves and wind need to be within certain limits in case the astronauts have to make an emergency splashdown on the way to orbit.

Wednesday’s countdown of the rocket and its bullet-shaped Dragon capsule was halted at just under 17 minutes because of the threat of lightning.

Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian spaceships launched from Kazakhstan to take U.S. astronauts to and from the space station.

“I would be lying to you if I told you I wasn’t nervous,” Bridenstine said before the launch attempt. “We want to do everything we can to minimize the risk, minimize the uncertainty, so that Bob and Doug will be safe.”

President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence planned to return for the second launch attempt.

Because of the coronavirus, NASA severely limited the number of employees, visitors and journalists allowed deep inside Kennedy Space Center, and the crowd was relatively small, at a few thousand. At the center’s tourist complex, though, all 4,000 tickets were snapped up in a few hours.

The space agency urged people to stay safe and watch from home, and by NASA’s count, at least 1.14 million viewers followed the launch preparation online. But spectators also began lining the Cape Canaveral area’s beaches and roads. Signs along the main beach drag read, “Godspeed.”

Among the spectators was Neil Wight, a machinist from Buffalo, New York, who staked out a view of the launch pad from a park in Titusville.

“It’s pretty historically significant in my book and a lot of other people’s books. With everything that’s going on in this country right now, it’s important that we do things extraordinary in life,” Wight said. “We’ve been bombarded with doom and gloom for the last six, eight weeks, whatever it is, and this is awesome. It brings a lot of people together.”

NASA hired SpaceX and Boeing in 2014 to taxi astronauts to and from the space station, under contracts totaling $7 billion. Both companies launched their crew capsules last year with test dummies. SpaceX’s Dragon aced all of its objectives, while Boeing’s Starliner capsule ended up in the wrong orbit and was almost destroyed because of software errors.

As a result, the first Starliner flight carrying astronauts isn’t expected until next year.

NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley (left) and Robert Behnken (right) participate in a dress rehearsal for launch at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 23, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station.&nbsp; The launch is now scheduled for 2:22 p.m. CDT Saturday Credits: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — SpaceX pressed ahead with its second attempt to launch astronauts for NASA — a historic first for a private company — but more stormy weather threatened more delays.

<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html#public">Click here</a> to watch the launch

Elon Musk’s company came within 17 minutes Wednesday of launching a pair of NASA astronauts for the first time in nearly a decade from the U.S., before the threat of lightning forced a delay.

With more storms ahead, managers debated Friday whether to bump the next launch attempt from Saturday to Sunday to take advantage of slightly improved forecast at Kennedy Space Center.

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine tweeted that no decision was made, and they would reassess the situation Saturday morning.

At an earlier outdoor news conference, Bridenstine stressed the need for safety for astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken — no matter how many times it takes to launch them in a SpaceX Dragon capsule atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to the International Space Station.

“We cannot forget this is a test flight. This — is — a — test — flight,” he repeated. “We will go when everything is as safe as we can possibly make it.”

Forecasters put the odds of acceptable weather conditions Saturday at 50-50, with the outlook improving to 60% favorable on Sunday. Rain and clouds were the main concerns for both days.

Bridenstine said back-to-back tries would be tough on the launch team — and the astronauts — given that this is a test flight.

Hurley and Behnken, veterans of two space shuttle flights, have both faced launch delays before. In a tweet Friday, Hurley said his first shuttle flight was scrubbed five times for weather and technical issues.

“We’re ready for the next launch opportunity!” Behnken tweeted.

While NASA had urged spectators to stay home Wednesday because of the pandemic, prime viewing spots at area parks and beaches were packed. A weekend launch could draw even bigger crowds. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex reopened Thursday, after a 2 1/2-month shutdown, and within a few hours, all 4,000 tickets were snapped up for Saturday’s launch attempt.

President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence were planning to return Saturday to watch from inside Kennedy. The number of employees, journalists and guests allowed at the space center remained extremely limited because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Whether an attempt is made Saturday or Sunday, “There will be no pressure. We will launch when we’re ready,” Bridenstine said.

Liftoff on Saturday would be 3:22 p.m. EDT.

The last time astronauts launched to orbit from the U.S. was in 2011 when Atlantis closed out the 30-year space shuttle program. Hurley was on that mission as well.

Full Coverage:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/tag/SpaceX">Space Launch</a>

NASA hired SpaceX and Boeing in 2014 to get the ball rolling again — kicking off a commercial revolution for getting people to low-Earth orbit. In the meantime, NASA has spent billions of dollars to buy seats on Russian Soyuz capsules for U.S. astronauts, in order to keep the space station staffed.

Boeing’s first astronaut flight, on the company’s Starliner capsule, is not expected until next year.

Bridenstine offered high praise for Musk on Friday and all his personal touches:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/025ee5177966af18ed0a9898fe3d6e13">spiffy spacesuits</a>, Tesla rides to the launch pad, a color-coordinated rocket and capsule — and more.

Musk has brought “vision and inspiration” to the American space program, Bridenstine said. While there’s occasionally a little tension between NASA and SpaceX, “he gives me a commitment and he delivers on that commitment. That has happened every single time.”

The California-based SpaceX is also developing a rocket and spaceship designed to go to the moon and Mars.

On Friday, a prototype of its Starship exploded while undergoing a routine engine test at the company’s Texas site. The ship vented large amount of gases and was engulfed in a tremendous fireball.

SpaceX did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

NASA, which has a contract with SpaceX to develop Starship for its lunar landing program, has no problems going ahead with this weekend’s unrelated launch of astronauts from Cape Canaveral, agency spokesman Bob Jacobs.

“That’s a test program. That’s why they test,” Jacobs said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590867040021.png" alt="Moments after lift off of the SpaceX rocket with 2 Americans on board -image courtesy NASA" />
 <figcaption>Moments after lift off of the SpaceX rocket with 2 Americans on board -image courtesy NASA</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — A rocket ship designed and built by Elon Musk’s SpaceX company has lifted off with two Americans on a history-making flight to the International Space Station.<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html#public">Click here</a>&nbsp;to watch additional coverage of the flight from NASAThe spacecraft took off Saturday afternoon from the same launch pad at Cape Canaveral, Florida, that was used during the Apollo missions to the moon a half-century ago. The flight ushers in a new era in commercial space travel and marks the first time NASA has launched astronauts from U.S. soil in nearly a decade. Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian rockets launched from Kazakhstan to take U.S. astronauts took and from the space station.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590866998389.png" alt="Lift off at 2:22 p.m. CDT Saturday -image courtesy NASA" />
 <figcaption>Lift off at 2:22 p.m. CDT Saturday -image courtesy NASA</figcaption>
 </figure>------CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Despite more storms in the forecast, two NASA astronauts climbed into their capsule Saturday for a second attempt at a history-making ride into orbit aboard a rocket ship designed and built by Elon Musk’s SpaceX company.<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html#public">Click here</a>&nbsp;to watch the launch&nbsp;With the flight already delayed three days by bad weather, forecasters put the odds of acceptable conditions at 50-50 for the 2:22 p.m. CDT liftoff of the 270-foot Falcon 9 in what would be the first launch of astronauts into orbit by a private company.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590865987717.png" alt="Astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken just 10 minutes ahead of the launch on Saturday -image courtesy NASA" />
 <figcaption>Astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken just 10 minutes ahead of the launch on Saturday -image courtesy NASA</figcaption>
 </figure>Their destination: the International Space Station, 250 miles above Earth.It would also be NASA’s first human spaceflight launched from U.S. soil in nearly a decade.The mission unfolded amid the gloom of the coronavirus outbreak, which has killed over 100,000 Americans, and racial unrest across the U.S. over the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man, at the hands of Minneapolis police. NASA officials and others held out hope the flight would would lift American spirits.“Maybe there’s an opportunity here for America to maybe pause and look up and see a bright, shining moment of hope at what the future looks like, that the United States of America can do extraordinary things even in difficult times,” NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said.Veteran astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken pulled on their angular, white-and-black spacesuits with help from technicians wearing masks, gloves and black hoods that made them look like ninjas.Before setting out for the launch pad in a gull-wing Tesla SUV — another Musk product — Behnken pantomimed a hug of his 6-year-old son, Theo, and said: “Are you going to listen to Mommy and make her life easy?” Hurley blew kisses to his 10-year-old son and wife.SpaceX and NASA monitored the weather not just at Kennedy Space Center, where rain, thick clouds and the chance of lightning threatened another postponement, but all the way up the Eastern Seaboard and across the North Atlantic to Ireland. Waves and wind need to be within certain limits in case the astronauts have to make an emergency splashdown on the way to orbit.Wednesday’s countdown of the rocket and its bullet-shaped Dragon capsule was halted at just under 17 minutes because of the threat of lightning.Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian spaceships launched from Kazakhstan to take U.S. astronauts to and from the space station.“I would be lying to you if I told you I wasn’t nervous,” Bridenstine said before the launch attempt. “We want to do everything we can to minimize the risk, minimize the uncertainty, so that Bob and Doug will be safe.”President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence planned to return for the second launch attempt.Because of the coronavirus, NASA severely limited the number of employees, visitors and journalists allowed deep inside Kennedy Space Center, and the crowd was relatively small, at a few thousand. At the center’s tourist complex, though, all 4,000 tickets were snapped up in a few hours.The space agency urged people to stay safe and watch from home, and by NASA’s count, at least 1.14 million viewers followed the launch preparation online. But spectators also began lining the Cape Canaveral area’s beaches and roads. Signs along the main beach drag read, “Godspeed.”Among the spectators was Neil Wight, a machinist from Buffalo, New York, who staked out a view of the launch pad from a park in Titusville.“It’s pretty historically significant in my book and a lot of other people’s books. With everything that’s going on in this country right now, it’s important that we do things extraordinary in life,” Wight said. “We’ve been bombarded with doom and gloom for the last six, eight weeks, whatever it is, and this is awesome. It brings a lot of people together.”NASA hired SpaceX and Boeing in 2014 to taxi astronauts to and from the space station, under contracts totaling $7 billion. Both companies launched their crew capsules last year with test dummies. SpaceX’s Dragon aced all of its objectives, while Boeing’s Starliner capsule ended up in the wrong orbit and was almost destroyed because of software errors.As a result, the first Starliner flight carrying astronauts isn’t expected until next year.___<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590841343573.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley (left) and Robert Behnken (right) participate in a dress rehearsal for launch at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 23, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station.&nbsp; The launch is now scheduled for 2:22 p.m. CDT Saturday Credits: NASA/Kim ShiflettCAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — SpaceX pressed ahead with its second attempt to launch astronauts for NASA — a historic first for a private company — but more stormy weather threatened more delays.<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html#public">Click here</a> to watch the launchElon Musk’s company came within 17 minutes Wednesday of launching a pair of NASA astronauts for the first time in nearly a decade from the U.S., before the threat of lightning forced a delay.With more storms ahead, managers debated Friday whether to bump the next launch attempt from Saturday to Sunday to take advantage of slightly improved forecast at Kennedy Space Center.NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine tweeted that no decision was made, and they would reassess the situation Saturday morning.At an earlier outdoor news conference, Bridenstine stressed the need for safety for astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken — no matter how many times it takes to launch them in a SpaceX Dragon capsule atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to the International Space Station.“We cannot forget this is a test flight. This — is — a — test — flight,” he repeated. “We will go when everything is as safe as we can possibly make it.”Forecasters put the odds of acceptable weather conditions Saturday at 50-50, with the outlook improving to 60% favorable on Sunday. Rain and clouds were the main concerns for both days.Bridenstine said back-to-back tries would be tough on the launch team — and the astronauts — given that this is a test flight.Hurley and Behnken, veterans of two space shuttle flights, have both faced launch delays before. In a tweet Friday, Hurley said his first shuttle flight was scrubbed five times for weather and technical issues.“We’re ready for the next launch opportunity!” Behnken tweeted.While NASA had urged spectators to stay home Wednesday because of the pandemic, prime viewing spots at area parks and beaches were packed. A weekend launch could draw even bigger crowds. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex reopened Thursday, after a 2 1/2-month shutdown, and within a few hours, all 4,000 tickets were snapped up for Saturday’s launch attempt.President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence were planning to return Saturday to watch from inside Kennedy. The number of employees, journalists and guests allowed at the space center remained extremely limited because of the coronavirus outbreak.Whether an attempt is made Saturday or Sunday, “There will be no pressure. We will launch when we’re ready,” Bridenstine said.Liftoff on Saturday would be 3:22 p.m. EDT.The last time astronauts launched to orbit from the U.S. was in 2011 when Atlantis closed out the 30-year space shuttle program. Hurley was on that mission as well.Full Coverage:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/tag/SpaceX">Space Launch</a>NASA hired SpaceX and Boeing in 2014 to get the ball rolling again — kicking off a commercial revolution for getting people to low-Earth orbit. In the meantime, NASA has spent billions of dollars to buy seats on Russian Soyuz capsules for U.S. astronauts, in order to keep the space station staffed.Boeing’s first astronaut flight, on the company’s Starliner capsule, is not expected until next year.Bridenstine offered high praise for Musk on Friday and all his personal touches:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/025ee5177966af18ed0a9898fe3d6e13">spiffy spacesuits</a>, Tesla rides to the launch pad, a color-coordinated rocket and capsule — and more.Musk has brought “vision and inspiration” to the American space program, Bridenstine said. While there’s occasionally a little tension between NASA and SpaceX, “he gives me a commitment and he delivers on that commitment. That has happened every single time.”The California-based SpaceX is also developing a rocket and spaceship designed to go to the moon and Mars.On Friday, a prototype of its Starship exploded while undergoing a routine engine test at the company’s Texas site. The ship vented large amount of gases and was engulfed in a tremendous fireball.SpaceX did not respond immediately to a request for comment.NASA, which has a contract with SpaceX to develop Starship for its lunar landing program, has no problems going ahead with this weekend’s unrelated launch of astronauts from Cape Canaveral, agency spokesman Bob Jacobs.“That’s a test program. That’s why they test,” Jacobs said.___

🎥 History: SpaceX rocket lifts off with 2 Americans

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 5p.m. Thursday, a Shawnee County deputy stopped a vehicle in the 4300 block of NW Button Road for a registration violation, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson. 

Through investigation at the scene, the driver and passenger&nbsp; identified as Nicole M. Langdon, 32, and&nbsp;Jessie L. Forgy, 36, both of Topeka were placed into custody and transported to the Law Enforcement Center for questioning. 

They were later booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Identity theft, Forgery, Possession of stolen property, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Making false information, No vehicle registration and No vehicle insurance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Forgy was also not wearing a seat belt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590764351527.png" alt="Langdon- photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Langdon- photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a traffic stop.Just after 5p.m. Thursday, a Shawnee County deputy stopped a vehicle in the 4300 block of NW Button Road for a registration violation, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson. Through investigation at the scene, the driver and passenger&nbsp; identified as Nicole M. Langdon, 32, and&nbsp;Jessie L. Forgy, 36, both of Topeka were placed into custody and transported to the Law Enforcement Center for questioning. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590764450847.png" alt="Forgy photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Forgy photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>They were later booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Identity theft, Forgery, Possession of stolen property, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Making false information, No vehicle registration and No vehicle insurance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Forgy was also not wearing a seat belt.

Sheriff: 2 arrested in Kan. for alleged forgery, ID theft

Today is Saturday, May 30, the 151st day of 2020. There are 215 days left in the year.

On May 30, 1989, student protesters in Beijing erected a "Goddess of Democracy" statue in Tiananmen Square (the statue was destroyed in the Chinese government's crackdown).

In 1431, Joan of Arc, condemned as a heretic, was burned at the stake in Rouen, France.

In 1883, 12 people were trampled to death in a stampede sparked by a rumor that the recently opened Brooklyn Bridge was in danger of collapsing.

In 1911, the first Indy 500 took place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway; the winner was Ray Harroun, who drove a Marmon Wasp for more than 6 1/2 hours at an average speed of 74.6 mph and collected a prize of $10,000.

In 1912, aviation pioneer Wilbur Wright, 45, died in Dayton, Ohio, of typhoid fever more than eight years after he and his brother, Orville, launched their first airplane.

In 1922, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., was dedicated in a ceremony attended by President Warren G. Harding, Chief Justice William Howard Taft and Robert Todd Lincoln.

In 1935, Babe Ruth played in his last major league baseball game for the Boston Braves, leaving after the first inning of the first game of a double-header against the Philadelphia Phillies, who won both games (Ruth announced his retirement three days later).

In 1937, ten people were killed when police fired on steelworkers demonstrating near the Republic Steel plant in South Chicago.

In 1943, during World War II, American troops secured the Aleutian island of Attu from Japanese forces.

In 1972, three members of the Japanese Red Army opened fire at Lod Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, killing 26 people. Two attackers died; the third was captured.

In 1994, Mormon Church president Ezra Taft Benson died in Salt Lake City at age 94.

In 1996, Britain's Prince Andrew and the former Sarah Ferguson were granted an uncontested decree ending their 10-year marriage.

In 2002, a solemn, wordless ceremony marked the end of the agonizing cleanup at ground zero in New York, 8 1/2 months after 9/11.

Ten years ago: Joran van der Sloot, the prime suspect in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway in Aruba, was seen leaving a hotel room in Lima, Peru, where the body of 21-year-old Stephany Flores was found three days later. (Van der Sloot later confessed to murdering Flores, and is serving a 28-year prison sentence.) Dario Franchitti drove 199 nearly flawless laps, then got a huge break from a spectacular crash on the last lap to climb back on top of the open-wheel world with a win at the Indianapolis 500.

Five years ago: Vice President Joe Biden's son, former Delaware attorney general Beau Biden, died at age 46 of brain cancer. Former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley entered the Democratic presidential race.

One year ago: President Donald Trump said he was slapping a 5% tariff on all Mexican imports to pressure the country to do more to crack down on Central American migrants trying to cross the U.S. border. Louisiana's Democratic governor, John Bel Edwards, signed a ban on abortion as early as six weeks of pregnancy, making Louisiana the fifth state to enact a law prohibiting abortion when a fetal heartbeat is detected. (The laws have been blocked by court challenges.) Former Republican Sen. Thad Cochran of Mississippi died at the age of 81, just over a year after retiring. Israel's parliament voted to dissolve itself, sending the country to an unprecedented second snap election of the year, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a governing coalition. (Netanyahu and chief rival Benny Gantz announced a deal to form a coalition government in April, 2020, averting what would have been a fourth election in just over a year.) The Scripps National Spelling Bee ended in an eight-way tie. The Toronto Raptors beat the Golden State Warriors 118-109 in Game 1 of the NBA Finals in Toronto, the first NBA championship series game to be played outside the United States.

Today's Birthdays: Actress Ruta Lee is 85. Actor Keir Dullea is 84. Pro and College Football Hall of Famer Gale Sayers is 77. Rock musician Lenny Davidson (The Dave Clark Five) is 76. Actor Stephen Tobolowsky is 69. Actor Colm Meaney is 67. Actor Ted McGinley is 62. Actor Ralph Carter is 59. Actress Tonya Pinkins is 58. Country singer Wynonna Judd is 56. Rock musician Tom Morello (Audioslave; Rage Against The Machine) is 56. Actor Mark Sheppard is 56. Movie director Antoine Fuqua is 55. Actor John Ross Bowie is 49. Rock musician Patrick Dahlheimer (Live) is 49. Actress Idina Menzel is 49. Actor Trey Parker is 48. Rapper Cee Lo Green is 45. Rapper Remy Ma is 40. Actor Blake Bashoff is 39. Christian rock musician James Smith (Underoath) is 38. Actress Javicia Leslie is 33. Actor Jake Short is 23. Actor Sean Giambrone is 21. Actor Jared Gilmore is 20.

Thought for Today: "There are two statements about human beings that are true: that all human beings are alike, and that all are different. On those two facts all human wisdom is founded." — Mark Van Doren, American poet (1894-1972).

<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 Saturday, May 30, the 151st day of 2020. There are 215 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 30, 1989, student protesters in Beijing erected a "Goddess of Democracy" statue in Tiananmen Square (the statue was destroyed in the Chinese government's crackdown).On this date:In 1431, Joan of Arc, condemned as a heretic, was burned at the stake in Rouen, France.In 1883, 12 people were trampled to death in a stampede sparked by a rumor that the recently opened Brooklyn Bridge was in danger of collapsing.In 1911, the first Indy 500 took place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway; the winner was Ray Harroun, who drove a Marmon Wasp for more than 6 1/2 hours at an average speed of 74.6 mph and collected a prize of $10,000.In 1912, aviation pioneer Wilbur Wright, 45, died in Dayton, Ohio, of typhoid fever more than eight years after he and his brother, Orville, launched their first airplane.In 1922, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., was dedicated in a ceremony attended by President Warren G. Harding, Chief Justice William Howard Taft and Robert Todd Lincoln.In 1935, Babe Ruth played in his last major league baseball game for the Boston Braves, leaving after the first inning of the first game of a double-header against the Philadelphia Phillies, who won both games (Ruth announced his retirement three days later).In 1937, ten people were killed when police fired on steelworkers demonstrating near the Republic Steel plant in South Chicago.In 1943, during World War II, American troops secured the Aleutian island of Attu from Japanese forces.In 1972, three members of the Japanese Red Army opened fire at Lod Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, killing 26 people. Two attackers died; the third was captured.In 1994, Mormon Church president Ezra Taft Benson died in Salt Lake City at age 94.In 1996, Britain's Prince Andrew and the former Sarah Ferguson were granted an uncontested decree ending their 10-year marriage.In 2002, a solemn, wordless ceremony marked the end of the agonizing cleanup at ground zero in New York, 8 1/2 months after 9/11.Ten years ago: Joran van der Sloot, the prime suspect in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway in Aruba, was seen leaving a hotel room in Lima, Peru, where the body of 21-year-old Stephany Flores was found three days later. (Van der Sloot later confessed to murdering Flores, and is serving a 28-year prison sentence.) Dario Franchitti drove 199 nearly flawless laps, then got a huge break from a spectacular crash on the last lap to climb back on top of the open-wheel world with a win at the Indianapolis 500.Five years ago: Vice President Joe Biden's son, former Delaware attorney general Beau Biden, died at age 46 of brain cancer. Former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley entered the Democratic presidential race.One year ago: President Donald Trump said he was slapping a 5% tariff on all Mexican imports to pressure the country to do more to crack down on Central American migrants trying to cross the U.S. border. Louisiana's Democratic governor, John Bel Edwards, signed a ban on abortion as early as six weeks of pregnancy, making Louisiana the fifth state to enact a law prohibiting abortion when a fetal heartbeat is detected. (The laws have been blocked by court challenges.) Former Republican Sen. Thad Cochran of Mississippi died at the age of 81, just over a year after retiring. Israel's parliament voted to dissolve itself, sending the country to an unprecedented second snap election of the year, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a governing coalition. (Netanyahu and chief rival Benny Gantz announced a deal to form a coalition government in April, 2020, averting what would have been a fourth election in just over a year.) The Scripps National Spelling Bee ended in an eight-way tie. The Toronto Raptors beat the Golden State Warriors 118-109 in Game 1 of the NBA Finals in Toronto, the first NBA championship series game to be played outside the United States.Today's Birthdays: Actress Ruta Lee is 85. Actor Keir Dullea is 84. Pro and College Football Hall of Famer Gale Sayers is 77. Rock musician Lenny Davidson (The Dave Clark Five) is 76. Actor Stephen Tobolowsky is 69. Actor Colm Meaney is 67. Actor Ted McGinley is 62. Actor Ralph Carter is 59. Actress Tonya Pinkins is 58. Country singer Wynonna Judd is 56. Rock musician Tom Morello (Audioslave; Rage Against The Machine) is 56. Actor Mark Sheppard is 56. Movie director Antoine Fuqua is 55. Actor John Ross Bowie is 49. Rock musician Patrick Dahlheimer (Live) is 49. Actress Idina Menzel is 49. Actor Trey Parker is 48. Rapper Cee Lo Green is 45. Rapper Remy Ma is 40. Actor Blake Bashoff is 39. Christian rock musician James Smith (Underoath) is 38. Actress Javicia Leslie is 33. Actor Jake Short is 23. Actor Sean Giambrone is 21. Actor Jared Gilmore is 20.Thought for Today: "There are two statements about human beings that are true: that all human beings are alike, and that all are different. On those two facts all human wisdom is founded." — Mark Van Doren, American poet (1894-1972).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- May 30

Donna Kay (Timmermeyer) Noble of Republic, Kansas, passed away on May 27, 2020, in Hastings, Nebraska, at the age of 77.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donna was born on April 13, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas, to Lawrence and Pauline (Steinke) Timmermeyer, and had one brother, Lawrence (Larry) Timmermeyer. She attended St. Mary’s High School and continued to be a devout Catholic throughout her life.&nbsp;

Donna married Coyt A. (Butch) Noble in 1966. Married for 50 years, they loved to spend weekends at “the cabin”, boating, relaxing and spending time with friends and family. First and foremost, Donna was a loving and involved mother to her two daughters, Chris Noble-Urchell of Crown Point, Indiana and Amy Landgren of Hastings, Nebraska. Donna never missed a piano recital, band concert or sporting event. Donna was very involved in her Catholic church in the community and volunteered numerous hours teaching CCD, cooking for events, or simply volunteering her time.&nbsp;

Donna is preceded in death by her parents, husband Butch in 2016, and brother Larry in 2017. She&nbsp;is survived by her daughters and their families:&nbsp; Chris Noble-Urchell, her husband Raymond Urchell and their children, Claire, Benjamin and Ian, as well as her daughter Amy Landgren, her husband Michael Landgren, and their children, Libby, Emma and Jake.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A memorial fund has been established in Donna’s name at the Swedish American State Bank in Courtland, Kansas. All donations will benefit St. George Catholic Church in Munden, Kansas.&nbsp;Swedish American State Bank, PO Box 350, Courtland, KS 66939

Donna’s wishes were for direct cremation. Friends may sign her book Thursday, June 4th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, Belleville, Kansas. A family graveside inurnment service will be held Friday, June 5th, 2020, at Lake Cemetery, rural Republic, Kansas with Father Henry Baxa officiating.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home of Belleville assisted the Noble family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590795324209.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donna Kay (Timmermeyer) Noble of Republic, Kansas, passed away on May 27, 2020, in Hastings, Nebraska, at the age of 77.&nbsp;&nbsp;Donna was born on April 13, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas, to Lawrence and Pauline (Steinke) Timmermeyer, and had one brother, Lawrence (Larry) Timmermeyer. She attended St. Mary’s High School and continued to be a devout Catholic throughout her life.&nbsp;Donna married Coyt A. (Butch) Noble in 1966. Married for 50 years, they loved to spend weekends at “the cabin”, boating, relaxing and spending time with friends and family. First and foremost, Donna was a loving and involved mother to her two daughters, Chris Noble-Urchell of Crown Point, Indiana and Amy Landgren of Hastings, Nebraska. Donna never missed a piano recital, band concert or sporting event. Donna was very involved in her Catholic church in the community and volunteered numerous hours teaching CCD, cooking for events, or simply volunteering her time.&nbsp;Donna is preceded in death by her parents, husband Butch in 2016, and brother Larry in 2017. She&nbsp;is survived by her daughters and their families:&nbsp; Chris Noble-Urchell, her husband Raymond Urchell and their children, Claire, Benjamin and Ian, as well as her daughter Amy Landgren, her husband Michael Landgren, and their children, Libby, Emma and Jake.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial fund has been established in Donna’s name at the Swedish American State Bank in Courtland, Kansas. All donations will benefit St. George Catholic Church in Munden, Kansas.&nbsp;Swedish American State Bank, PO Box 350, Courtland, KS 66939Donna’s wishes were for direct cremation. Friends may sign her book Thursday, June 4th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, Belleville, Kansas. A family graveside inurnment service will be held Friday, June 5th, 2020, at Lake Cemetery, rural Republic, Kansas with Father Henry Baxa officiating.Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home of Belleville assisted the Noble family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

Donna Kay (Timmermeyer) Noble

Salina Public Library, in partnership with St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church, will provide free grab-and-go lunches this summer. 

Pickup will begin Monday and run through July 31.&nbsp;

The lunches will be provided from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with priority for youth during the first half-hour. If supplies allow, free lunches for adults will be available after children are served. Lunches are first come, first served. The service will be available on the lawn on the northwest corner of the library, next to the drive for the book drop. In the case of inclement weather, lunch will be canceled. Patrons are asked to observe social distancing during pickup.

“When Pastor (Allen) Smith approached us about the library being a free lunch site, we knew immediately that this would be a perfect fit for us,” Lisa Newman, head of Youth Services, said. “During a normal year, we have hundreds of children and families visit us in the summer. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 crisis forced us to make some changes, and we are grateful St. John’s has been flexible and willing to make it work in whatever format possible.”

St. John’s makes the lunches and delivers them to the library. Meals will be packed in bags or containers to limit contact.

For more information, contact Heather Mettlen, youth services program coordinator, at (785) 825-4624, ext. 244, or <a href="mailto:youthservices.programs@salpublib.org" target="_blank">youthservices.programs@salpublib.org</a>.

Salina Public Library, in partnership with St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church, will provide free grab-and-go lunches this summer. Pickup will begin Monday and run through July 31.&nbsp;The lunches will be provided from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with priority for youth during the first half-hour. If supplies allow, free lunches for adults will be available after children are served. Lunches are first come, first served. The service will be available on the lawn on the northwest corner of the library, next to the drive for the book drop. In the case of inclement weather, lunch will be canceled. Patrons are asked to observe social distancing during pickup.“When Pastor (Allen) Smith approached us about the library being a free lunch site, we knew immediately that this would be a perfect fit for us,” Lisa Newman, head of Youth Services, said. “During a normal year, we have hundreds of children and families visit us in the summer. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 crisis forced us to make some changes, and we are grateful St. John’s has been flexible and willing to make it work in whatever format possible.”St. John’s makes the lunches and delivers them to the library. Meals will be packed in bags or containers to limit contact.For more information, contact Heather Mettlen, youth services program coordinator, at (785) 825-4624, ext. 244, or <a href="mailto:youthservices.programs@salpublib.org" target="_blank">youthservices.programs@salpublib.org</a>.

Local library, church partner on summer lunches

Today is Friday, May 29, the 150th day of 2020. There are 216 days left in the year.

On May 29, 1988, President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev opened their historic summit in Moscow.

In 1765, Patrick Henry denounced the Stamp Act before Virginia's House of Burgesses.

In 1914, the Canadian ocean liner RMS Empress of Ireland sank in the St. Lawrence River in eastern Quebec after colliding with the Norwegian cargo ship SS Storstad; of the 1,477 people on board the Empress of Ireland, 1,012 died. (The Storstad sustained only minor damage.)

In 1917, the 35th president of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, was born in Brookline, Massachusetts.

In 1943, Norman Rockwell's portrait of "Rosie the Riveter" appeared on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post.

In 1953, Mount Everest was conquered as Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tensing Norgay of Nepal became the first climbers to reach the summit.

In 1954, English runner Diane Leather became the first woman to run a sub-five-minute mile, finishing in 4:59.6 during the Midland Championships in Birmingham.

In 1973, Tom Bradley was elected the first black mayor of Los Angeles, defeating incumbent Sam Yorty.

In 1985, 39 people were killed at the European Cup Final in Brussels, Belgium, when rioting broke out and a wall separating British and Italian soccer fans collapsed.

In 1995, Margaret Chase Smith, the first woman to serve in both the House and the Senate, died in Skowhegan, Maine, at age 97.

In 1998, Republican elder statesman Barry Goldwater died in Paradise Valley, Arizona, at age 89.

In 2008, the Vatican issued a decree stating that anyone trying to ordain a woman as a priest and any woman who attempted to receive the ordination would incur automatic excommunication. Actor-comedian Harvey Korman, Emmy winner for "The Carol Burnett Show," died in Los Angeles at age 81.

In 2009, a judge in Los Angeles sentenced music producer Phil Spector to 19 years to life in prison for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson. Jay Leno hosted "The Tonight Show" on NBC supposedly for the final time, giving up his desk to Conan O'Brien. (After a stint in prime time, Leno returned to "Tonight" in March 2010, stepping down again in February 2014.)

Ten years ago: Dennis Hopper, the high-flying Hollywood wildman whose memorable career included an early turn in "Rebel Without A Cause" and an improbable smash hit with "Easy Rider," died in Los Angeles at age 74. Philadelphia's Roy Halladay threw the 20th perfect game in major league history, beating the Florida Marlins 1-0.

Five years ago: The Obama administration formally removed Cuba from the U.S. terrorism blacklist. Nigeria's new president, Muhammadu Buhari, was sworn in with a pledge to tackle the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram "head on." Veteran character actress Betsy Palmer, 88, died in Danbury, Connecticut.

One year ago: In his first public remarks on the Russia investigation, special counsel Robert Mueller said charging President Donald Trump with a crime was "not an option" because of federal rules, but he emphasized that the investigation did not exonerate the president. A 2-year-old girl was struck in the head by a foul ball off the bat of Chicago Cubs outfielder Albert Almora Jr. in a game against the Astros in Houston; an attorney for the girl's family later said she had suffered a skull fracture. (The Astros and other teams extended protective netting further down the left-field and right-field lines later in the season.) A San Diego hospital revealed that a baby girl had been born in December, 23 weeks and three days into her mother's pregnancy, weighing just 8.6 ounces; the girl, believed to be the world's tiniest surviving newborn, went home months later as a healthy infant weighing 5 pounds.

Today's Birthdays: Former Baseball Commissioner Fay Vincent is 82. Motorsports Hall of Famer Al Unser is 81. Actor Helmut Berger is 76. Rock singer Gary Brooker (Procol Harum) is 75. Actor Anthony Geary is 73. Actor Cotter Smith is 71. Singer Rebbie Jackson is 70. Movie composer Danny Elfman is 67. Singer LaToya Jackson is 64. Actor Ted Levine is 63. Actress Annette Bening is 62. Actor Rupert Everett is 61. Actor Adrian Paul is 61. Singer Melissa Etheridge is 59. Actress Lisa Whelchel is 57. Actress Tracey Bregman is 57. Rock musician Noel Gallagher is 53. Singer Jayski McGowan (Quad City DJ's) is 53. Actor Anthony Azizi is 51. Rock musician Chan Kinchla (Blues Traveler) is 51. Actress Laverne Cox is 48. Rock musician Mark Lee (Third Day) is 47. Cartoonist Aaron McGruder ("The Boondocks") is 46. Singer Melanie Brown (Spice Girls) is 45. Rapper Playa Poncho is 45. Latin singer Fonseca is 41. Actor Justin Chon (TV: "Deception"; "Dr. Ken") is 39. NBA player Carmelo Anthony is 36. Actor Billy Flynn is 35. Actor Blake Foster is 35. Actress Riley Keough is 31. Actor Brandon Mychal Smith is 31. Actress Kristen Alderson is 29. Actress Lorelei Linklater is 27.

Thought for Today: "What makes us discontented with our condition is the absurdly exaggerated idea we have of the happiness of others." — French saying.

<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 Friday, May 29, the 150th day of 2020. There are 216 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 29, 1988, President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev opened their historic summit in Moscow.On this date:In 1765, Patrick Henry denounced the Stamp Act before Virginia's House of Burgesses.In 1914, the Canadian ocean liner RMS Empress of Ireland sank in the St. Lawrence River in eastern Quebec after colliding with the Norwegian cargo ship SS Storstad; of the 1,477 people on board the Empress of Ireland, 1,012 died. (The Storstad sustained only minor damage.)In 1917, the 35th president of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, was born in Brookline, Massachusetts.In 1943, Norman Rockwell's portrait of "Rosie the Riveter" appeared on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post.In 1953, Mount Everest was conquered as Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tensing Norgay of Nepal became the first climbers to reach the summit.In 1954, English runner Diane Leather became the first woman to run a sub-five-minute mile, finishing in 4:59.6 during the Midland Championships in Birmingham.In 1973, Tom Bradley was elected the first black mayor of Los Angeles, defeating incumbent Sam Yorty.In 1985, 39 people were killed at the European Cup Final in Brussels, Belgium, when rioting broke out and a wall separating British and Italian soccer fans collapsed.In 1995, Margaret Chase Smith, the first woman to serve in both the House and the Senate, died in Skowhegan, Maine, at age 97.In 1998, Republican elder statesman Barry Goldwater died in Paradise Valley, Arizona, at age 89.In 2008, the Vatican issued a decree stating that anyone trying to ordain a woman as a priest and any woman who attempted to receive the ordination would incur automatic excommunication. Actor-comedian Harvey Korman, Emmy winner for "The Carol Burnett Show," died in Los Angeles at age 81.In 2009, a judge in Los Angeles sentenced music producer Phil Spector to 19 years to life in prison for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson. Jay Leno hosted "The Tonight Show" on NBC supposedly for the final time, giving up his desk to Conan O'Brien. (After a stint in prime time, Leno returned to "Tonight" in March 2010, stepping down again in February 2014.)Ten years ago: Dennis Hopper, the high-flying Hollywood wildman whose memorable career included an early turn in "Rebel Without A Cause" and an improbable smash hit with "Easy Rider," died in Los Angeles at age 74. Philadelphia's Roy Halladay threw the 20th perfect game in major league history, beating the Florida Marlins 1-0.Five years ago: The Obama administration formally removed Cuba from the U.S. terrorism blacklist. Nigeria's new president, Muhammadu Buhari, was sworn in with a pledge to tackle the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram "head on." Veteran character actress Betsy Palmer, 88, died in Danbury, Connecticut.One year ago: In his first public remarks on the Russia investigation, special counsel Robert Mueller said charging President Donald Trump with a crime was "not an option" because of federal rules, but he emphasized that the investigation did not exonerate the president. A 2-year-old girl was struck in the head by a foul ball off the bat of Chicago Cubs outfielder Albert Almora Jr. in a game against the Astros in Houston; an attorney for the girl's family later said she had suffered a skull fracture. (The Astros and other teams extended protective netting further down the left-field and right-field lines later in the season.) A San Diego hospital revealed that a baby girl had been born in December, 23 weeks and three days into her mother's pregnancy, weighing just 8.6 ounces; the girl, believed to be the world's tiniest surviving newborn, went home months later as a healthy infant weighing 5 pounds.Today's Birthdays: Former Baseball Commissioner Fay Vincent is 82. Motorsports Hall of Famer Al Unser is 81. Actor Helmut Berger is 76. Rock singer Gary Brooker (Procol Harum) is 75. Actor Anthony Geary is 73. Actor Cotter Smith is 71. Singer Rebbie Jackson is 70. Movie composer Danny Elfman is 67. Singer LaToya Jackson is 64. Actor Ted Levine is 63. Actress Annette Bening is 62. Actor Rupert Everett is 61. Actor Adrian Paul is 61. Singer Melissa Etheridge is 59. Actress Lisa Whelchel is 57. Actress Tracey Bregman is 57. Rock musician Noel Gallagher is 53. Singer Jayski McGowan (Quad City DJ's) is 53. Actor Anthony Azizi is 51. Rock musician Chan Kinchla (Blues Traveler) is 51. Actress Laverne Cox is 48. Rock musician Mark Lee (Third Day) is 47. Cartoonist Aaron McGruder ("The Boondocks") is 46. Singer Melanie Brown (Spice Girls) is 45. Rapper Playa Poncho is 45. Latin singer Fonseca is 41. Actor Justin Chon (TV: "Deception"; "Dr. Ken") is 39. NBA player Carmelo Anthony is 36. Actor Billy Flynn is 35. Actor Blake Foster is 35. Actress Riley Keough is 31. Actor Brandon Mychal Smith is 31. Actress Kristen Alderson is 29. Actress Lorelei Linklater is 27.Thought for Today: "What makes us discontented with our condition is the absurdly exaggerated idea we have of the happiness of others." — French saying.Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- May 29

The Salina Area United Way is hosting a children’s book drive Monday through June 12. 

Drop off new and gently used children’s books (birth through high school reading levels) at 210 E. Walnut, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“The Salina Area United Way’s summer reading program, Raising Active Wild Readers, will&nbsp;help children in Salina tackle two important issues this summer. Summer learning loss, which is the loss of academic skills that occurs when school is out, and access to books,” said Brenda Gutierrez, program director for the Salina Area United Way.

The Salina Area United Way is partnering with the USD 305 Summer Meal Service Program for the book distribution. After kids pick up their free Grab-and-Go lunch, their next stop can be for a free book. United Way staff will display books, and children, remaining in the vehicle, will read the book’s title or point to make their selection.&nbsp; Free book distribution days and locations will be determined following the book drive Monday-June 12.

For participants health and safety, SAUW will follow the CDC guidance for COVID-19. “We ask that you place books in a clean box or bag for drop off. There will be a book donation table just inside the door at 210 E. Walnut, Suite 100,” said Gutierrez. “Drop off times are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” Gutierrez added. 

All new and gently used books will set untouched for 72 hours before cleaning and sanitizing.

Join Salina Area&nbsp;United Way’s initiatives to improve early grade reading proficiency and to keep students on track for high school graduation, to be college or career ready.

For more information about Salina Area United Way, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.unitedwaysalina.org/" target="_blank">www.unitedwaysalina.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;contact Salina Area United Way at 785-827-1312.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590684028490.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Area United Way is hosting a children’s book drive Monday through June 12. Drop off new and gently used children’s books (birth through high school reading levels) at 210 E. Walnut, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday.“The Salina Area United Way’s summer reading program, Raising Active Wild Readers, will&nbsp;help children in Salina tackle two important issues this summer. Summer learning loss, which is the loss of academic skills that occurs when school is out, and access to books,” said Brenda Gutierrez, program director for the Salina Area United Way.The Salina Area United Way is partnering with the USD 305 Summer Meal Service Program for the book distribution. After kids pick up their free Grab-and-Go lunch, their next stop can be for a free book. United Way staff will display books, and children, remaining in the vehicle, will read the book’s title or point to make their selection.&nbsp; Free book distribution days and locations will be determined following the book drive Monday-June 12.For participants health and safety, SAUW will follow the CDC guidance for COVID-19. “We ask that you place books in a clean box or bag for drop off. There will be a book donation table just inside the door at 210 E. Walnut, Suite 100,” said Gutierrez. “Drop off times are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” Gutierrez added. All new and gently used books will set untouched for 72 hours before cleaning and sanitizing.Join Salina Area&nbsp;United Way’s initiatives to improve early grade reading proficiency and to keep students on track for high school graduation, to be college or career ready.For more information about Salina Area United Way, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.unitedwaysalina.org/" target="_blank">www.unitedwaysalina.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;contact Salina Area United Way at 785-827-1312.&nbsp;

Salina Area United Way organizes children’s book drive

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.

<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.