&nbsp; Janice Cathleen Smith, 55, of McPherson, KS, passed away at 4:05 p.m., Thursday, July 23rd, suddenly, at her home. Janice was born in Monterey, California on May 6, 1965, a daughter of John Reed Williams and Judy (Thatch) Williams. Due to her dad in the military, Janice attended many schools all over the United States, and later got her GED from Emporia High School, Emporia, Kansas. She then received her Nurses Aide Certificate from Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson, Kansas. Janice was a homemaker and she took great pride in providing for her family in this manner. Through the years Janice worked at many different places as a cook and a laborer. Janice was a member of American Legion Auxiliary and V.F.W. Auxilary both of McPherson. Janice enjoyed playing pool, listening to music and singing right along, and spending time at the lake with family and friends. She loved her grandkids and always looked forward to their visits. Janice Cathleen Williams was united in marriage John Smith. This union was blessed with the birth of two sons, Bryan and Jason. Janice was blessed with love from Ray Anderson all heart and soul. She is survived by the love of her life off and on of about 20 years, Ray Anderson, McPherson; her children, Bryon Smith and his wife Jamie Smith, of Wichita, Kansas, Jason Smith and wife Kathleen, of McPherson, Kansas, Rachel Crothers, of Raymond, Kansas, Lindsey Anderson and significant other Nick Alexander, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Aaron Anderson, of McPherson, Kansas; her father, John Williams of Monterey, California; her brothers, Brad Williams, of Chicago, Illinois and Bryan Williams, of South Carolina; her 15 grandchildren; other relatives and many friends. Janice was preceded in death by her mom, Judy Williams and her first husband John Smith. A Celebration of Life will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Janice Smith memorial and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid, McPherson, Ks. 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Janice Cathleen Smith, 55, of McPherson, KS, passed away at 4:05 p.m., Thursday, July 23rd, suddenly, at her home. Janice was born in Monterey, California on May 6, 1965, a daughter of John Reed Williams and Judy (Thatch) Williams. Due to her dad in the military, Janice attended many schools all over the United States, and later got her GED from Emporia High School, Emporia, Kansas. She then received her Nurses Aide Certificate from Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson, Kansas. Janice was a homemaker and she took great pride in providing for her family in this manner. Through the years Janice worked at many different places as a cook and a laborer. Janice was a member of American Legion Auxiliary and V.F.W. Auxilary both of McPherson. Janice enjoyed playing pool, listening to music and singing right along, and spending time at the lake with family and friends. She loved her grandkids and always looked forward to their visits. Janice Cathleen Williams was united in marriage John Smith. This union was blessed with the birth of two sons, Bryan and Jason. Janice was blessed with love from Ray Anderson all heart and soul. She is survived by the love of her life off and on of about 20 years, Ray Anderson, McPherson; her children, Bryon Smith and his wife Jamie Smith, of Wichita, Kansas, Jason Smith and wife Kathleen, of McPherson, Kansas, Rachel Crothers, of Raymond, Kansas, Lindsey Anderson and significant other Nick Alexander, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Aaron Anderson, of McPherson, Kansas; her father, John Williams of Monterey, California; her brothers, Brad Williams, of Chicago, Illinois and Bryan Williams, of South Carolina; her 15 grandchildren; other relatives and many friends. Janice was preceded in death by her mom, Judy Williams and her first husband John Smith. A Celebration of Life will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Janice Smith memorial and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid, McPherson, Ks. 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Janice Cathleen Smith

By SHERMAN SMITH &amp; TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/07/23/medical-experts-dispute-claims-by-kansas-board-of-education-member/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas State Board of Education member Michelle Dombrosky confronted health secretary Lee Norman <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/07/22/kansas-board-of-education-blocks-gov-laura-kellys-plan-to-delay-k-12-classes/">during Wednesday’s meeting</a>
 to ask why his advice — to delay the start of school for three weeks — 
conflicts with the opinion of other medical experts in the state.

The board member from Olathe identified Children’s Mercy Hospital, the Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics,
 the Kansas Academy of Family Physicians and the University of Kansas 
Medical Center as organizations that offered this advice: “Get the kids 
back in school.”

None of those 
organizations expressed support or opposition before Wednesday’s meeting
 regarding Gov. Laura Kelly’s executive order, which would have delayed 
in-person instruction and activities at public and private K-12 schools 
until after Labor Day. Dombrosky opposed the governor’s order, which 
fell one vote short of approval as the state board voted 5-5.

“I’m just looking at 
Children’s Mercy. I’m just looking at pediatrics. And there’s a lot of 
them saying get the kids back in school,” Dombrosky said. “We should be 
listening to the doctors, not the politicians.”

Dombrosky didn’t respond 
to an email asking her to clarify her remarks. Medical experts, 
including Norman, agree that placing children in public schools is good 
for their well-being. The question is when is it safe to do so.

“You don’t have to 
convince me or other public health officials,” said Norman, secretary of
 the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “We very well 
recognize there are many things other than education — there are 
benefits for mental health and nutrition, all sorts of things. The 
motivation is absolutely to get kids back into school. No question about
 it. Just want to make sure it’s done safely.”

Kelly proposed the delay 
in response to a surge in coronavirus cases in some areas of the state. 
Board members who opposed the order preferred to give control to local 
school boards who can decide whether COVID-19 poses a threat in their 
area.

Lisa Augustine, 
spokeswoman for Children’s Mercy Hospital, said “the decision to resume 
in-person schooling should be made by the local school and school system
 in conjunction with the local health department.” However, Children’s 
Mercy didn’t share any advice with board members, Augustine said.

Other organizations more directly refuted Dombrosky’s comments.

Chad
 Johanning, president of the Kansas Academy of Family Physicians, said 
the organization supports physically reopening schools but only when it 
can be done safely. The organization has not counseled members of the board of education, he said.

“Delaying reopening and 
affirming the governor’s order during this recent increase in COVID 
cases will support the safe reopening of our schools,” Johanning said. 
“It is unfortunate that the AAFP position on reopening school is being 
spun politically to meet a political goal.”

Jill Chadwick, a 
spokeswoman for the University of Kansas Health System, said Dombrosky 
misunderstood or took out of context any statements made by the medical 
network’s experts.

“It needs to be made 
clear,” Chadwick said. “The University of Kansas Health System has not 
and will not take a position on the governor’s executive order.”

Mel Hudelson, executive director of Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics,
 said decisions about when to return to classrooms should be guided by 
public health agencies rather than politics. KAAP supports the efforts 
of KDHE, the agency led by Norman.

“Public health experts 
should tell us when the time is best to safely open school buildings, 
and educators and administrators should shape how we do it,” Hudelson 
said. “These decisions should take into account the spread of COVID-19 
in the state and the ability of school districts to adapt to make 
in-person learning safe.”

Thousands of public 
comments were submitted to the state Board of Education in advance of 
the vote. The written comments included insight of two Wichita-area 
pediatricians who endorsed Kelly’s recommendation to put off school for 
three weeks.

Paul Teran, a member of 
the pediatrics department at the KU School of Medicine in Wichita, said 
opening schools to 500,000 students and thousands of educators in August
 would be unwise.

“Delaying school reopening
 until after Labor Day will allow public health officials to have a 
better understanding of the viral transmission in our state and also 
give schools more time to prepare and implement measures that will 
improve student and staff safety,” Teran said.

“It is very important that
 we get our students back into the school setting as soon as we can,” 
said Stephanie Kuhlmann, an associate professor of pediatrics at KU 
School of Medicine who practices medicine at Wesley Children’s Hospital 
in Wichita. “However, it is even more important that our students return
 to school in the safest manner and environment as possible.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595520945214.png" alt="Health secretary Lee Norman outlines the growing number of COVID-19 infections in Kansas during a news conference last week in which Gov. Laura Kelly announced her order to keep schools closed until after Labor Day. On Wednesday, Norman told board members that schools can't be safe islands in unsafe communities. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Health secretary Lee Norman outlines the growing number of COVID-19 infections in Kansas during a news conference last week in which Gov. Laura Kelly announced her order to keep schools closed until after Labor Day. On Wednesday, Norman told board members that schools can't be safe islands in unsafe communities. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH &amp; TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/07/23/medical-experts-dispute-claims-by-kansas-board-of-education-member/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas State Board of Education member Michelle Dombrosky confronted health secretary Lee Norman <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/07/22/kansas-board-of-education-blocks-gov-laura-kellys-plan-to-delay-k-12-classes/">during Wednesday’s meeting</a>
 to ask why his advice — to delay the start of school for three weeks — 
conflicts with the opinion of other medical experts in the state.The board member from Olathe identified Children’s Mercy Hospital, the Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics,
 the Kansas Academy of Family Physicians and the University of Kansas 
Medical Center as organizations that offered this advice: “Get the kids 
back in school.”None of those 
organizations expressed support or opposition before Wednesday’s meeting
 regarding Gov. Laura Kelly’s executive order, which would have delayed 
in-person instruction and activities at public and private K-12 schools 
until after Labor Day. Dombrosky opposed the governor’s order, which 
fell one vote short of approval as the state board voted 5-5.“I’m just looking at 
Children’s Mercy. I’m just looking at pediatrics. And there’s a lot of 
them saying get the kids back in school,” Dombrosky said. “We should be 
listening to the doctors, not the politicians.”Dombrosky didn’t respond 
to an email asking her to clarify her remarks. Medical experts, 
including Norman, agree that placing children in public schools is good 
for their well-being. The question is when is it safe to do so.“You don’t have to 
convince me or other public health officials,” said Norman, secretary of
 the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “We very well 
recognize there are many things other than education — there are 
benefits for mental health and nutrition, all sorts of things. The 
motivation is absolutely to get kids back into school. No question about
 it. Just want to make sure it’s done safely.”Kelly proposed the delay 
in response to a surge in coronavirus cases in some areas of the state. 
Board members who opposed the order preferred to give control to local 
school boards who can decide whether COVID-19 poses a threat in their 
area.Lisa Augustine, 
spokeswoman for Children’s Mercy Hospital, said “the decision to resume 
in-person schooling should be made by the local school and school system
 in conjunction with the local health department.” However, Children’s 
Mercy didn’t share any advice with board members, Augustine said.Other organizations more directly refuted Dombrosky’s comments.Chad
 Johanning, president of the Kansas Academy of Family Physicians, said 
the organization supports physically reopening schools but only when it 
can be done safely. The organization has not counseled members of the board of education, he said.“Delaying reopening and 
affirming the governor’s order during this recent increase in COVID 
cases will support the safe reopening of our schools,” Johanning said. 
“It is unfortunate that the AAFP position on reopening school is being 
spun politically to meet a political goal.”Jill Chadwick, a 
spokeswoman for the University of Kansas Health System, said Dombrosky 
misunderstood or took out of context any statements made by the medical 
network’s experts.“It needs to be made 
clear,” Chadwick said. “The University of Kansas Health System has not 
and will not take a position on the governor’s executive order.”Mel Hudelson, executive director of Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics,
 said decisions about when to return to classrooms should be guided by 
public health agencies rather than politics. KAAP supports the efforts 
of KDHE, the agency led by Norman.“Public health experts 
should tell us when the time is best to safely open school buildings, 
and educators and administrators should shape how we do it,” Hudelson 
said. “These decisions should take into account the spread of COVID-19 
in the state and the ability of school districts to adapt to make 
in-person learning safe.”Thousands of public 
comments were submitted to the state Board of Education in advance of 
the vote. The written comments included insight of two Wichita-area 
pediatricians who endorsed Kelly’s recommendation to put off school for 
three weeks.Paul Teran, a member of 
the pediatrics department at the KU School of Medicine in Wichita, said 
opening schools to 500,000 students and thousands of educators in August
 would be unwise.“Delaying school reopening
 until after Labor Day will allow public health officials to have a 
better understanding of the viral transmission in our state and also 
give schools more time to prepare and implement measures that will 
improve student and staff safety,” Teran said.“It is very important that
 we get our students back into the school setting as soon as we can,” 
said Stephanie Kuhlmann, an associate professor of pediatrics at KU 
School of Medicine who practices medicine at Wesley Children’s Hospital 
in Wichita. “However, it is even more important that our students return
 to school in the safest manner and environment as possible.”

Medical experts dispute claims by Kansas Board of Education member

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

My 35th&nbsp;birthday is this week. Though some women beyond their 20s don’t like to share their age, I have no problem admitting it. This birthday feels like the last of my “young person” milestones. I will legally be old enough to run for president of the United States of America. The moment doesn’t have the same anticipation of independence that came with acquiring the ability to work, drive, vote or drink. It is an aged and mellow satisfaction, born of the knowledge that I have reached the point where the Founding Fathers believed an individual had enough life experience to be able to lead the country.

Like many children, I dreamed about what it would be like to hold the highest office in the land, but as an adult, the idea actually seems pretty undesirable. The world of politics has become so divisive and cruel. It often feels like watching children in a schoolyard. There is name-calling, he-said she-said arguments, pouting when you don’t get your way, overreactions to perfectly normal disagreement, no filter of what is polite or helpful, and a strange occurrence where someone who isn’t like you becomes a monster. During a campaign season, it seems to become even worse. Between vilifying TV commercials, stacks of hateful postcards and a barrage of social media ads about the alleged evils of candidates, you have to have strong armor to weather it all. And don’t think this is just at the federal level, I see it in local races too. The craziest part of this is we do have people who answer the call to serve. In fact, I think most politicians are good people who feel compelled to serve and are trying to do what they think is best. These people endure harsh criticism and try their best to represent the interests of all their constituents, even the ones that just called them evil. So, as the horrific election season rolls on, I want to say thank you to the individuals at all levels who have raised their hands and are vying to serve as elected officials. I appreciate your willingness to serve despite all the negatives, like experiencing criticism no matter how good you are at the job. My attitude of gratitude is a product of a deeply held belief that you are a person who wants to make the world better. In addition to my heartfelt thanks, I offer a commitment to my fellow Americans who put themselves out there to serve: I will always do my best to be polite and treat you with respect, even if I disagree with you. I will listen openly to the information you share and be willing to provide my opinion and experiences with you in a civil manner. When you make a decision I don’t agree with, now or after being elected, I will do my best to temper my disappointment and seek to understand how you arrived at your conclusion. Most importantly, I will continue to look for the best in you not the worst.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherMy 35th&nbsp;birthday is this week. Though some women beyond their 20s don’t like to share their age, I have no problem admitting it. This birthday feels like the last of my “young person” milestones. I will legally be old enough to run for president of the United States of America. The moment doesn’t have the same anticipation of independence that came with acquiring the ability to work, drive, vote or drink. It is an aged and mellow satisfaction, born of the knowledge that I have reached the point where the Founding Fathers believed an individual had enough life experience to be able to lead the country. Like many children, I dreamed about what it would be like to hold the highest office in the land, but as an adult, the idea actually seems pretty undesirable. The world of politics has become so divisive and cruel. It often feels like watching children in a schoolyard. There is name-calling, he-said she-said arguments, pouting when you don’t get your way, overreactions to perfectly normal disagreement, no filter of what is polite or helpful, and a strange occurrence where someone who isn’t like you becomes a monster. During a campaign season, it seems to become even worse. Between vilifying TV commercials, stacks of hateful postcards and a barrage of social media ads about the alleged evils of candidates, you have to have strong armor to weather it all. And don’t think this is just at the federal level, I see it in local races too. The craziest part of this is we do have people who answer the call to serve. In fact, I think most politicians are good people who feel compelled to serve and are trying to do what they think is best. These people endure harsh criticism and try their best to represent the interests of all their constituents, even the ones that just called them evil. So, as the horrific election season rolls on, I want to say thank you to the individuals at all levels who have raised their hands and are vying to serve as elected officials. I appreciate your willingness to serve despite all the negatives, like experiencing criticism no matter how good you are at the job. My attitude of gratitude is a product of a deeply held belief that you are a person who wants to make the world better. In addition to my heartfelt thanks, I offer a commitment to my fellow Americans who put themselves out there to serve: I will always do my best to be polite and treat you with respect, even if I disagree with you. I will listen openly to the information you share and be willing to provide my opinion and experiences with you in a civil manner. When you make a decision I don’t agree with, now or after being elected, I will do my best to temper my disappointment and seek to understand how you arrived at your conclusion. Most importantly, I will continue to look for the best in you not the worst."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Keeping perspective in politics

&nbsp; Craig Ernest Applebee, 65, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away at 3:59 p.m., Thursday, July 16th, 2020 suddenly at his residence. Craig was born in McPherson, Kansas on September 11, 1954, a son of Robert A. and Margaret Yvonne (Folsom) Applebee. Craig attended Roosevelt grade school, McPherson Junior High School and graduated from McPherson High School, McPherson, Kansas in 1972. He then attended the Salina Police Academy, Salina, Kansas. He served in the U.S. Navy. Through the years Craig worked as a security officer for many agencies in Kansas. Craig enjoyed drawing, riding his Harley-Davidson, reading, crossword puzzles, listening to music and spending time with his friends and family. Craig Ernest Applebee was united in marriage to Gwen Rose Barnhart in McPherson, Kansas. The young couple established their first home together in Hutchinson. This union was blessed with the birth of two daughters, Elisa and Tiffany. He is survived by his daughters, Elisa Applebee, of McPherson, Kansas and Tiffany Hinson, of McPherson, Kansas; his siblings, Angie Applebee-Drew and her husband Ron Turner, of Omaha, Nebraska, Allen Applebee and his wife Darlene, of Lady Lake, Florida, Gary Applebee and his wife Rosemary, of Union, Mississippi and Kent Applebee and his wife Sharon, of Concordia, Kansas. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Christopher Stiles, Sebastian Applebee, Serena Hinson and a great-granddaughter, Sabrina Amburgey. Craig was preceded in death by his parents. No services at this time. Craig Applebee Memorial Fund and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid St., McPherson, Ks. 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Craig Ernest Applebee, 65, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away at 3:59 p.m., Thursday, July 16th, 2020 suddenly at his residence. Craig was born in McPherson, Kansas on September 11, 1954, a son of Robert A. and Margaret Yvonne (Folsom) Applebee. Craig attended Roosevelt grade school, McPherson Junior High School and graduated from McPherson High School, McPherson, Kansas in 1972. He then attended the Salina Police Academy, Salina, Kansas. He served in the U.S. Navy. Through the years Craig worked as a security officer for many agencies in Kansas. Craig enjoyed drawing, riding his Harley-Davidson, reading, crossword puzzles, listening to music and spending time with his friends and family. Craig Ernest Applebee was united in marriage to Gwen Rose Barnhart in McPherson, Kansas. The young couple established their first home together in Hutchinson. This union was blessed with the birth of two daughters, Elisa and Tiffany. He is survived by his daughters, Elisa Applebee, of McPherson, Kansas and Tiffany Hinson, of McPherson, Kansas; his siblings, Angie Applebee-Drew and her husband Ron Turner, of Omaha, Nebraska, Allen Applebee and his wife Darlene, of Lady Lake, Florida, Gary Applebee and his wife Rosemary, of Union, Mississippi and Kent Applebee and his wife Sharon, of Concordia, Kansas. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Christopher Stiles, Sebastian Applebee, Serena Hinson and a great-granddaughter, Sabrina Amburgey. Craig was preceded in death by his parents. No services at this time. Craig Applebee Memorial Fund and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid St., McPherson, Ks. 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Craig Ernest Applebee

WICHITA – Travelers yearning for adventure, yet not ready or able to travel due to COVID-19 issues, can get a taste of what it would be like to be on an African safari via a LIVE one-time virtual event, hosted by AAA and Africa Travel. 

The event will feature a live “Safari Sundowner” experience, an African tradition of enjoying food and drinks at sunset, this one showcasing elephants from Jabulani Safari Lodge in South Africa.

Amy Short, Director of Strategic Partnerships at AAA and a co-host of the event, recognized the need for travelers to make meaningful connections with their dream destinations and created a series of events to provide a way for the exploration of exotic destinations from the comfort of home.

“Attendees will be able to sit back with their favorite refreshment, watch elephants in South Africa make their way homeward after a day on the reserve and listen to elephant rangers sharing their personal experiences with the elephants, all under the glow of sunset,” said Short.

While most dream of an African Safari, many travelers have not yet had the opportunity to experience one firsthand.&nbsp;During this virtual safari, Short says, “guests will be able to “meet” some of the elephants that call Jabulani home.”

The 45-minute live experience will be followed by time for participants to ask questions of hosts from both AAA and African Travel.AAA’s Travel Virtual Event Series Featuring Elephants from Africa is scheduled for July 22 at 9:30 a.m. CST. Registration is free and open to the public at&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8295%3e5-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=315727&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA Travel Events</a>.

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%3d8295%3e5-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=315726&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%3d8295%3e5-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=315725&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595267102141.jpeg" alt="AAA is offering a virtual safari. Photo courtesy AAA" />
 <figcaption>AAA is offering a virtual safari. Photo courtesy AAA</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – Travelers yearning for adventure, yet not ready or able to travel due to COVID-19 issues, can get a taste of what it would be like to be on an African safari via a LIVE one-time virtual event, hosted by AAA and Africa Travel. The event will feature a live “Safari Sundowner” experience, an African tradition of enjoying food and drinks at sunset, this one showcasing elephants from Jabulani Safari Lodge in South Africa.Amy Short, Director of Strategic Partnerships at AAA and a co-host of the event, recognized the need for travelers to make meaningful connections with their dream destinations and created a series of events to provide a way for the exploration of exotic destinations from the comfort of home.“Attendees will be able to sit back with their favorite refreshment, watch elephants in South Africa make their way homeward after a day on the reserve and listen to elephant rangers sharing their personal experiences with the elephants, all under the glow of sunset,” said Short.While most dream of an African Safari, many travelers have not yet had the opportunity to experience one firsthand.&nbsp;During this virtual safari, Short says, “guests will be able to “meet” some of the elephants that call Jabulani home.”The 45-minute live experience will be followed by time for participants to ask questions of hosts from both AAA and African Travel.AAA’s Travel Virtual Event Series Featuring Elephants from Africa is scheduled for July 22 at 9:30 a.m. CST. Registration is free and open to the public at&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d8295%3e5-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=315727&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA Travel Events</a>.About AAAAAA 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%3d8295%3e5-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=315726&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%3d8295%3e5-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=315725&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AAA to host live virtual safari at sunset with SA elephants

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (AP) — Daniel Lewis Lee, a condemned man and convicted murderer, was asked if he wanted to make a final statement from the execution chamber, with its institutional green-tiled walls and plate-glass interior window, moments before he too would die.

He did. He leaned his head up and we locked eyes.

“You’re killing an innocent man,” Lee said, looking directly at me.

Those were his last words. He said them to me.

Lee’s execution, one of two that I witnessed this past week at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, played out slowly, after painstaking hours of final, futile legal appeals, before prison officials administered a lethal injection and the federal government carried out capital punishment for the first time in almost two decades. A third execution came later in the week.

Before the lethal injection for Lee, there had been a lot of waiting. Prison officials searched me extensively each time I arrived, then sent me back to my hotel during the legal maneuvering, only to call me back to the maximum-security facility.

As part of a small group of other reporters, I was an official witness to Lee’s death, one that took place in the middle of a pandemic.

Lee, who was convicted of killing an Arkansas gun dealer, his wife and young daughter in the late 1990s, was scheduled to be executed Monday at 4 p.m. EDT.

But there would be a long wait as his legal appeals made their way to the Supreme Court. Along with other reporters, I was lodged inside a former bowling alley that was now a prison staff training center. It was guarded by heavily armed prison officers. We were all wearing blue surgical masks. Our temperatures were taken.

We could carry only identification into the prison as we loaded into two unmarked white vans that took us a short distance down “Justice Drive” to the penitentiary building for a security screening.

Inside, correction officers outfitted in full protective gear — N95 masks, face shields, gloves and paper gowns — told us we’d be going through the equivalent of a souped-up airport screening. They even took my glasses to X-ray them.

But then came another delay. Officials told us to grab dinner, so we did, then returned to the prison and waited. By midnight, all of us left again for our hotels nearby.

At 2:10 a.m. the Supreme Court ruled the execution could proceed. About a minute or so later, a Bureau of Prisons official was on the phone saying the execution was scheduled for 4:15 a.m.

We rushed back to the prison. The clock in the van read 4:16 when we hopped out and headed into the execution chamber.

Lee was already there — strapped to a gurney.

We were brought into a small witness room. There were plastic chairs facing the window, a notepad, a pen, small bottle of hand sanitizer and a single sanitizing wipe on each seat. A correction officer pulled the large metal door closed and a booming click echoed through the room. We were locked in.

The curtain was shut, but I could hear noises coming from the other side of the wall. We couldn’t make small talk. A man, albeit a convicted murderer, who was supposed to die soon could probably hear us.

We were all uncomfortable. A reporter next to me scribbled “legal issue?” on his notepad and gestured to me. “I guess so,” I replied.

There was no clock in the room. We lost track of how long we had been in there. Eventually someone asked if anyone knew what time it was. When a correction officer replied it was 6:10 a.m., there was a collective gasp of surprise.

At 7:46 a.m. the curtain began to rise slowly. By that time we’d been locked in the room with Lee just on the other side of the glass, strapped in, for nearly four hours.

There he was. His arms were strapped down and a light blue sheet covered most of his body. I was annoyed with one of the reporters who was moving around vying for a better view. Of a man’s death. It bothered me somehow, even though we were all there.

A U.S. marshal inside the room with Lee picked up a black phone hanging on the green tiled wall.

“This is the marshal inside the execution chamber,” he said. Washington headquarters was on the other end. The marshal asked if there were any legal impediments that would prohibit the execution. He listened, then said, “I understand there are no impediments.”

And then Lee said those last words, looking right at me.

He rested his head back down and the drug quickly did its deadly work. His lips turned blue. His chest stopped moving. He was pronounced dead.

I rushed back to my computer and filed my story.

It wouldn’t sink in until later that I had just watched a man die. My face was one of the last he saw. I’ve been a crime reporter for years, but this felt different. It was clinical. It was like watching someone go to sleep.

And there wasn’t much time to dwell on the experience, because another execution was scheduled for the next day.

Wesley Ira Purkey was convicted of kidnapping a 16-year-old girl from her Kansas neighborhood, raping and killing her in the late 1990s and also killing an 80-year-old.

But his time to die too was already delayed well into the evening. We arrived at the staff training center at 4 p.m. But this time we weren’t allowed to leave.

As the hours ticked by, everyone became more anxious, at times pacing in circles.

By 10 p.m., the Bureau of Prisons officials offered us peanuts and chips. They didn’t want to let us go back to the hotels because it would take too long to bring us all back through security.

Just before midnight came more food — Lunchables, dug out from a prison fridge somewhere.

At 2:45 a.m. — about 11 hours after we arrived — we were told to leave our electronics and loaded back into the vans. This time we stopped just outside of the execution chamber.

And we sat there for five hours. I dozed off for a bit in my seat.

Eventually, after Purkey’s legal avenues were exhausted, we were brought into the witness room. The curtain rose at 7:55 a.m. We were again looking into the execution chamber. The same officials were standing beside Purkey, his arms strapped down with black restraints. He apologized to the family of the teenage girl he killed and to his own daughter.

“I deeply regret the pain and suffering I caused to Jennifer’s family,” he said. “I am deeply sorry. I deeply regret the pain I caused to my daughter, who I love so very much. This sanitized murder really does not serve no purpose whatsoever. Thank you.”&nbsp;

I glanced over at his spiritual adviser — a Zen Buddhist priest who had sued the Bureau of Prisons to try to stop the execution because of fears over the coronavirus. He was wearing a mask under a face shield and appeared to be praying. I wondered if he was afraid he’d get the virus. I wondered if I would get the virus.

A few minutes later, Purkey was declared dead. The curtain came down.

In one week, I had spent more than 32 hours inside a prison. And watched two men die.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574950995361.png" alt="&nbsp;Wesley Purkey from Kansas was convicted of kidnapping and killing a 16-year-old girl before dismembering, burning and dumping her body in a septic pond. He also was convicted in a state court in Kansas after using a claw hammer to kill an 80-year-old woman who had polio." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Wesley Purkey from Kansas was convicted of kidnapping and killing a 16-year-old girl before dismembering, burning and dumping her body in a septic pond. He also was convicted in a state court in Kansas after using a claw hammer to kill an 80-year-old woman who had polio.</figcaption>
 </figure> By MICHAEL BALSAMOTERRE HAUTE, Ind. (AP) — Daniel Lewis Lee, a condemned man and convicted murderer, was asked if he wanted to make a final statement from the execution chamber, with its institutional green-tiled walls and plate-glass interior window, moments before he too would die.He did. He leaned his head up and we locked eyes.“You’re killing an innocent man,” Lee said, looking directly at me.Those were his last words. He said them to me.Lee’s execution, one of two that I witnessed this past week at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, played out slowly, after painstaking hours of final, futile legal appeals, before prison officials administered a lethal injection and the federal government carried out capital punishment for the first time in almost two decades. A third execution came later in the week.Before the lethal injection for Lee, there had been a lot of waiting. Prison officials searched me extensively each time I arrived, then sent me back to my hotel during the legal maneuvering, only to call me back to the maximum-security facility.As part of a small group of other reporters, I was an official witness to Lee’s death, one that took place in the middle of a pandemic.Lee, who was convicted of killing an Arkansas gun dealer, his wife and young daughter in the late 1990s, was scheduled to be executed Monday at 4 p.m. EDT.But there would be a long wait as his legal appeals made their way to the Supreme Court. Along with other reporters, I was lodged inside a former bowling alley that was now a prison staff training center. It was guarded by heavily armed prison officers. We were all wearing blue surgical masks. Our temperatures were taken.We could carry only identification into the prison as we loaded into two unmarked white vans that took us a short distance down “Justice Drive” to the penitentiary building for a security screening.Inside, correction officers outfitted in full protective gear — N95 masks, face shields, gloves and paper gowns — told us we’d be going through the equivalent of a souped-up airport screening. They even took my glasses to X-ray them.But then came another delay. Officials told us to grab dinner, so we did, then returned to the prison and waited. By midnight, all of us left again for our hotels nearby.At 2:10 a.m. the Supreme Court ruled the execution could proceed. About a minute or so later, a Bureau of Prisons official was on the phone saying the execution was scheduled for 4:15 a.m.We rushed back to the prison. The clock in the van read 4:16 when we hopped out and headed into the execution chamber.Lee was already there — strapped to a gurney.We were brought into a small witness room. There were plastic chairs facing the window, a notepad, a pen, small bottle of hand sanitizer and a single sanitizing wipe on each seat. A correction officer pulled the large metal door closed and a booming click echoed through the room. We were locked in.The curtain was shut, but I could hear noises coming from the other side of the wall. We couldn’t make small talk. A man, albeit a convicted murderer, who was supposed to die soon could probably hear us.We were all uncomfortable. A reporter next to me scribbled “legal issue?” on his notepad and gestured to me. “I guess so,” I replied.There was no clock in the room. We lost track of how long we had been in there. Eventually someone asked if anyone knew what time it was. When a correction officer replied it was 6:10 a.m., there was a collective gasp of surprise.At 7:46 a.m. the curtain began to rise slowly. By that time we’d been locked in the room with Lee just on the other side of the glass, strapped in, for nearly four hours.There he was. His arms were strapped down and a light blue sheet covered most of his body. I was annoyed with one of the reporters who was moving around vying for a better view. Of a man’s death. It bothered me somehow, even though we were all there.A U.S. marshal inside the room with Lee picked up a black phone hanging on the green tiled wall.“This is the marshal inside the execution chamber,” he said. Washington headquarters was on the other end. The marshal asked if there were any legal impediments that would prohibit the execution. He listened, then said, “I understand there are no impediments.”And then Lee said those last words, looking right at me.He rested his head back down and the drug quickly did its deadly work. His lips turned blue. His chest stopped moving. He was pronounced dead.I rushed back to my computer and filed my story.It wouldn’t sink in until later that I had just watched a man die. My face was one of the last he saw. I’ve been a crime reporter for years, but this felt different. It was clinical. It was like watching someone go to sleep.And there wasn’t much time to dwell on the experience, because another execution was scheduled for the next day.Wesley Ira Purkey was convicted of kidnapping a 16-year-old girl from her Kansas neighborhood, raping and killing her in the late 1990s and also killing an 80-year-old.But his time to die too was already delayed well into the evening. We arrived at the staff training center at 4 p.m. But this time we weren’t allowed to leave.As the hours ticked by, everyone became more anxious, at times pacing in circles.By 10 p.m., the Bureau of Prisons officials offered us peanuts and chips. They didn’t want to let us go back to the hotels because it would take too long to bring us all back through security.Just before midnight came more food — Lunchables, dug out from a prison fridge somewhere.At 2:45 a.m. — about 11 hours after we arrived — we were told to leave our electronics and loaded back into the vans. This time we stopped just outside of the execution chamber.And we sat there for five hours. I dozed off for a bit in my seat.Eventually, after Purkey’s legal avenues were exhausted, we were brought into the witness room. The curtain rose at 7:55 a.m. We were again looking into the execution chamber. The same officials were standing beside Purkey, his arms strapped down with black restraints. He apologized to the family of the teenage girl he killed and to his own daughter.“I deeply regret the pain and suffering I caused to Jennifer’s family,” he said. “I am deeply sorry. I deeply regret the pain I caused to my daughter, who I love so very much. This sanitized murder really does not serve no purpose whatsoever. Thank you.”&nbsp;I glanced over at his spiritual adviser — a Zen Buddhist priest who had sued the Bureau of Prisons to try to stop the execution because of fears over the coronavirus. He was wearing a mask under a face shield and appeared to be praying. I wondered if he was afraid he’d get the virus. I wondered if I would get the virus.A few minutes later, Purkey was declared dead. The curtain came down.In one week, I had spent more than 32 hours inside a prison. And watched two men die.___

One reporter, witness to two executions, haunting last words

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (AP) — The U.S. government on Friday put to death an Iowa chemistry student-turned-meth kingpin convicted of killing five people, the third execution by the federal government in a week.

<a href="https://apnews.com/a8ee04007265bdaa742add8a3b1e3362">Dustin Honken</a>, 52, who prosecutors said killed key witnesses to stop them from testifying in his drugs case, received a lethal injection at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana. Two others were also put to death during the week after a hiatus of nearly 20 years, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a494e22c8a4449118f7ee60963804f92">Wesley Purkey.</a>&nbsp;His lawyers contended he had dementia and didn’t know why he was being executed.

The first in the spate federal executions happened Tuesday, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/638826b00bba1b389756126e4cfae97a">Daniel Lewis Lee</a>&nbsp;was put to death for killing a family in the 1990s as part of a plot to build a whites-only nation. Lee’s execution, like Purkey’s, went ahead only after the U.S. Supreme Court gave it a green light in a 5-4 decision hours before.

Honken, who had been on death row since 2005, was pronounced dead at 4:36 p.m. The inmate — known for his verbosity at trial and for making a long statement of his innocence at his sentencing — spoke only briefly, neither addressing victims’ family members nor saying he was sorry. His last words were, “Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for me.”

Honken’s lawyer, Shawn Nolan, said his client was “redeemed” and had repented for his crimes. Honken was a devout Catholic who “cared for everyone he came into contact with” in prison, Nolan said.

“There was no reason for the government to kill him, in haste or at all. In any case, they failed. The Dustin Honken they wanted to kill is long gone,” Nolan said. “The man they killed today was a human being, who could have spent the rest of his days helping others and further redeeming himself. May he rest in peace.”

In a statement, Justice Department spokesperson Kerri Kupec said “just punishment has been carried out.”

“Nearly three decades after Honken coldly ended the lives of five people, including two young girls, all in an effort to protect himself and his criminal enterprise, he has finally faced justice,” Kupec said.

After officials began administering the lethal injection, Honken began blinking his eyes and his fingers twitched. After several minutes his breathing became more labored. He turned increasingly ashen as blood drained from his face and hands. His hands gradually stopped twitching, and his breathing became shallower.

Honken was pronounced dead about 30 minutes after the process began — longer than the other two executions. An official with a stethoscope walked into the small death chamber, put his fingers on Honken’s neck to check for a pulse, listened for a heartbeat, then exited.

Seconds later, officials announced the time of death.

Honken, whose crimes struck at the foundation of the U.S. justice system, always seemed the least likely to win a reprieve from the courts. After the two previous executions were stopped and started amid back-and-forth legal maneuvering, Honken’s began almost on the minute it was scheduled.

While out on bond in his drugs case in July 1993, Honken and his girlfriend Angela Johnson kidnapped Lori Duncan and her two daughters from their Mason City, Iowa, home, then killed and buried them in a wooded area nearby. Ten-year-old Kandi and 6-year-old Amber were still in their swimsuits on the hot summer day when they were shot execution-style in the back of the head.

Their primary target that day was Lori Duncan’s then-boyfriend, Greg Nicholson, who also lived at the home and was also killed. He and Lori Duncan were bound and gagged and shot multiple times. Honken had recently learned Nicholson, a former drug-dealing associate, was cooperating with investigators and would likely testify against Honken at trial.

Lori Duncan didn’t know Nicholson was an informant and she wasn’t involved in drugs.

As the investigation into Honken continued, he killed another drug dealer working with him, Terry DeGeus, beating him with a bat and shooting him.

Honken had earlier informed the judge in his drug case that he would plead guilty at the end of July. But days after the still-undiscovered killings of Nicholson and the Duncans, he told the court he would stick to his not guilty plea.

A statement from the Duncan family said the execution provided a degree of justice and closure to the family.

The two young Duncan girls “never had a chance to grow up and share in the joys and sorrows of their life,” it said. “Their mother never got to see them having their first dance, first date or first walk down the aisle at their wedding.”

“We will continue to live with their loss,” it said. “However, this is a step toward healing of broken hearts and shattered lives.”

Investigators found the Nicholson and Duncan bodies only seven years after the killings, in 2000, after Johnson scrawled out a map showing a jailhouse informant where they were buried. DeGeus’ body was found a few miles from the wooded area.

Honken was considered so dangerous that the judge took the rare step of impaneling an anonymous jury. Other security measures included fitting Honken with a stun belt under his clothes to prevent him from trying to escape.

Johnson, Honken’s girlfriend, was convicted in a separate trial and sentenced to death. A judge later reduced her sentence to life behind bars.

In recent days, prison authorities permitted Honken to make his last calls to family and friends, according to Sister Betty Donoghue, a Catholic nun whom he called Wednesday.

On death row, Honken befriended Lee and knew his execution was called off one hour, then was back on another hour, Donoghue said.

“He was very upset with the way Danny died,” said Donoghue, who visited Honken regularly over the past decade.

Yet Donoghue, of the Sisters of Providence just outside Terre Haute, said she was startled by how calm Honken sounded over the phone.

“He was at peace. I was totally amazed,” she said. “He believed he would go to heaven. He is ready to meet his maker.”

At his sentencing in 2005, Honken denied killing anybody, but Donoghue said she never heard him say he was innocent.

Honken’s mother, brother and college-age daughter visited him in prison in recent days, she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595025298276.png" alt="Honken photo Mason City Police" />
 <figcaption>Honken photo Mason City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (AP) — The U.S. government on Friday put to death an Iowa chemistry student-turned-meth kingpin convicted of killing five people, the third execution by the federal government in a week.<a href="https://apnews.com/a8ee04007265bdaa742add8a3b1e3362">Dustin Honken</a>, 52, who prosecutors said killed key witnesses to stop them from testifying in his drugs case, received a lethal injection at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana. Two others were also put to death during the week after a hiatus of nearly 20 years, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a494e22c8a4449118f7ee60963804f92">Wesley Purkey.</a>&nbsp;His lawyers contended he had dementia and didn’t know why he was being executed.The first in the spate federal executions happened Tuesday, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/638826b00bba1b389756126e4cfae97a">Daniel Lewis Lee</a>&nbsp;was put to death for killing a family in the 1990s as part of a plot to build a whites-only nation. Lee’s execution, like Purkey’s, went ahead only after the U.S. Supreme Court gave it a green light in a 5-4 decision hours before.Honken, who had been on death row since 2005, was pronounced dead at 4:36 p.m. The inmate — known for his verbosity at trial and for making a long statement of his innocence at his sentencing — spoke only briefly, neither addressing victims’ family members nor saying he was sorry. His last words were, “Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for me.”Honken’s lawyer, Shawn Nolan, said his client was “redeemed” and had repented for his crimes. Honken was a devout Catholic who “cared for everyone he came into contact with” in prison, Nolan said.“There was no reason for the government to kill him, in haste or at all. In any case, they failed. The Dustin Honken they wanted to kill is long gone,” Nolan said. “The man they killed today was a human being, who could have spent the rest of his days helping others and further redeeming himself. May he rest in peace.”In a statement, Justice Department spokesperson Kerri Kupec said “just punishment has been carried out.”“Nearly three decades after Honken coldly ended the lives of five people, including two young girls, all in an effort to protect himself and his criminal enterprise, he has finally faced justice,” Kupec said.After officials began administering the lethal injection, Honken began blinking his eyes and his fingers twitched. After several minutes his breathing became more labored. He turned increasingly ashen as blood drained from his face and hands. His hands gradually stopped twitching, and his breathing became shallower.Honken was pronounced dead about 30 minutes after the process began — longer than the other two executions. An official with a stethoscope walked into the small death chamber, put his fingers on Honken’s neck to check for a pulse, listened for a heartbeat, then exited.Seconds later, officials announced the time of death.Honken, whose crimes struck at the foundation of the U.S. justice system, always seemed the least likely to win a reprieve from the courts. After the two previous executions were stopped and started amid back-and-forth legal maneuvering, Honken’s began almost on the minute it was scheduled.While out on bond in his drugs case in July 1993, Honken and his girlfriend Angela Johnson kidnapped Lori Duncan and her two daughters from their Mason City, Iowa, home, then killed and buried them in a wooded area nearby. Ten-year-old Kandi and 6-year-old Amber were still in their swimsuits on the hot summer day when they were shot execution-style in the back of the head.Their primary target that day was Lori Duncan’s then-boyfriend, Greg Nicholson, who also lived at the home and was also killed. He and Lori Duncan were bound and gagged and shot multiple times. Honken had recently learned Nicholson, a former drug-dealing associate, was cooperating with investigators and would likely testify against Honken at trial.Lori Duncan didn’t know Nicholson was an informant and she wasn’t involved in drugs.As the investigation into Honken continued, he killed another drug dealer working with him, Terry DeGeus, beating him with a bat and shooting him.Honken had earlier informed the judge in his drug case that he would plead guilty at the end of July. But days after the still-undiscovered killings of Nicholson and the Duncans, he told the court he would stick to his not guilty plea.A statement from the Duncan family said the execution provided a degree of justice and closure to the family.The two young Duncan girls “never had a chance to grow up and share in the joys and sorrows of their life,” it said. “Their mother never got to see them having their first dance, first date or first walk down the aisle at their wedding.”“We will continue to live with their loss,” it said. “However, this is a step toward healing of broken hearts and shattered lives.”Investigators found the Nicholson and Duncan bodies only seven years after the killings, in 2000, after Johnson scrawled out a map showing a jailhouse informant where they were buried. DeGeus’ body was found a few miles from the wooded area.Honken was considered so dangerous that the judge took the rare step of impaneling an anonymous jury. Other security measures included fitting Honken with a stun belt under his clothes to prevent him from trying to escape.Johnson, Honken’s girlfriend, was convicted in a separate trial and sentenced to death. A judge later reduced her sentence to life behind bars.In recent days, prison authorities permitted Honken to make his last calls to family and friends, according to Sister Betty Donoghue, a Catholic nun whom he called Wednesday.On death row, Honken befriended Lee and knew his execution was called off one hour, then was back on another hour, Donoghue said.“He was very upset with the way Danny died,” said Donoghue, who visited Honken regularly over the past decade.Yet Donoghue, of the Sisters of Providence just outside Terre Haute, said she was startled by how calm Honken sounded over the phone.“He was at peace. I was totally amazed,” she said. “He believed he would go to heaven. He is ready to meet his maker.”At his sentencing in 2005, Honken denied killing anybody, but Donoghue said she never heard him say he was innocent.Honken’s mother, brother and college-age daughter visited him in prison in recent days, she said.

Iowa meth kingpin is 3rd executed by US government this week

Today is Friday, July 17, the 199th day of 2020. There are 167 days left in the year. 

On July 17, 1944, during World War II, 320 men, two-thirds of them African-Americans, were killed when a pair of ammunition ships exploded at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine in California. 

In 1717, George Frideric Handel's "Water Music" was first performed by an orchestra during a boating party on the River Thames (tehmz), with the musicians on one barge, and King George I listening from another. 

In 1862, during the Civil War, Congress approved the Second Confiscation Act, which declared that all slaves taking refuge behind Union lines were to be set free. 

In 1918, Russia's Czar Nicholas II and his family were executed by the Bolsheviks. 

In 1945, following Nazi Germany's surrender, President Harry S. Truman, Soviet leader Josef Stalin and British Prime Minister Winston S. Churchill began meeting at Potsdam in the final Allied summit of World War II. 

In 1962, the United States conducted its last atmospheric nuclear test to date, detonating a 20-kiloton device, codenamed Little Feller I, at the Nevada Test Site. 

In 1975, an Apollo spaceship docked with a Soyuz spacecraft in orbit in the first superpower link-up of its kind. 

In 1981, 114 people were killed when a pair of suspended walkways above the lobby of the Kansas City Hyatt Regency Hotel collapsed during a tea dance. 

In 1996, TWA Flight 800, a Europe-bound Boeing 747, exploded and crashed off Long Island, New York, shortly after departing John F. Kennedy International Airport, killing all 230 people on board. 

In 1997, Woolworth Corp. announced it was closing its 400 remaining five-and-dime stores across the country, ending 117 years in business. 

In 2007, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick was indicted by a federal grand jury in Richmond, Virginia, on charges related to competitive dogfighting. (Vick later admitted bankrolling the dogfighting operation and helping to kill six to eight dogs; he served 23 months in federal custody, the last 60 days in home confinement.) 

In 2009, former CBS anchorman Walter Cronkite died in New York at 92. 

In 2014, Eric Garner, an unarmed Black man accused of selling loose, untaxed cigarettes, died shortly after being wrestled to the ground by New York City police officers; a video of the takedown showed Garner repeatedly saying, "I can't breathe." (Garner's family received $5.9 million from the city in 2015 to settle a wrongful death claim.) All 298 passengers and crew aboard Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 were killed when the Boeing 777 was shot down over rebel-held eastern Ukraine; both Ukraine's government and pro-Russian separatists denied responsibility. 

Ten years ago: Federal authorities in Puerto Rico arrested alleged drug kingpin Jose Figueroa Agosto after a decade-long chase through the Caribbean. Thousands of gays and lesbians from around Europe marched through Poland's capital, Warsaw, to demand equal rights and more tolerance in the heavily Roman Catholic nation.

Five years ago: More than 1,000 people attended an interfaith service in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to mourn four Marines who had been shot to death at a reserve facility by a Kuwaiti-born gunman. A suicide bomber with the Islamic State group attacked a crowded marketplace in Iraq's Diyala province, killing 115 people.

One year ago: Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was sentenced to life behind bars in a U.S. prison. Prosecutors in Massachusetts dropped a case accusing actor Kevin Spacey of groping a young man at a resort island bar in 2016; the accuser had refused to testify about a missing cellphone that defense lawyers said would support Spacey's claims of innocence.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Donald Sutherland is 85. Rock musician Spencer Davis is 81. Sportscaster Verne Lundquist is 80. Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is 73. Rock musician Terry "Geezer" Butler is 71. Actress Lucie Arnaz is 69. Actor David Hasselhoff is 68. Rock musician Fran Smith Jr. (The Hooters) is 68. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is 66. Television producer Mark Burnett is 60. Actress Nancy Giles is 60. Singer Regina Belle is 57. Country singer Craig Morgan is 56. Rock musician Lou Barlow is 54. Contemporary Christian singer Susan Ashton is 53. Actor Andre Royo is 52. Actress Bitty Schram is 52. Actor Jason Clarke is 51. Movie director F. Gary Gray is 51. Singer JC (PM Dawn) is 49. Rapper Sole' is 47. Country singer Luke Bryan is 44. Actor Eric Winter is 44. Actor Mike Vogel is 41. Actor Tom Cullen is 35. Actor Brando Eaton is 34. Rhythm-and-blues singer Jeremih is 33. Actress Summer Bishil is 32. Actress Billie Lourd is 28. Actor Leo Howard is 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Friday, July 17, the 199th day of 2020. There are 167 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On July 17, 1944, during World War II, 320 men, two-thirds of them African-Americans, were killed when a pair of ammunition ships exploded at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine in California. On this date: In 1717, George Frideric Handel's "Water Music" was first performed by an orchestra during a boating party on the River Thames (tehmz), with the musicians on one barge, and King George I listening from another. In 1862, during the Civil War, Congress approved the Second Confiscation Act, which declared that all slaves taking refuge behind Union lines were to be set free. In 1918, Russia's Czar Nicholas II and his family were executed by the Bolsheviks. In 1945, following Nazi Germany's surrender, President Harry S. Truman, Soviet leader Josef Stalin and British Prime Minister Winston S. Churchill began meeting at Potsdam in the final Allied summit of World War II. In 1962, the United States conducted its last atmospheric nuclear test to date, detonating a 20-kiloton device, codenamed Little Feller I, at the Nevada Test Site. In 1975, an Apollo spaceship docked with a Soyuz spacecraft in orbit in the first superpower link-up of its kind. In 1981, 114 people were killed when a pair of suspended walkways above the lobby of the Kansas City Hyatt Regency Hotel collapsed during a tea dance. In 1996, TWA Flight 800, a Europe-bound Boeing 747, exploded and crashed off Long Island, New York, shortly after departing John F. Kennedy International Airport, killing all 230 people on board. In 1997, Woolworth Corp. announced it was closing its 400 remaining five-and-dime stores across the country, ending 117 years in business. In 2007, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick was indicted by a federal grand jury in Richmond, Virginia, on charges related to competitive dogfighting. (Vick later admitted bankrolling the dogfighting operation and helping to kill six to eight dogs; he served 23 months in federal custody, the last 60 days in home confinement.) In 2009, former CBS anchorman Walter Cronkite died in New York at 92. In 2014, Eric Garner, an unarmed Black man accused of selling loose, untaxed cigarettes, died shortly after being wrestled to the ground by New York City police officers; a video of the takedown showed Garner repeatedly saying, "I can't breathe." (Garner's family received $5.9 million from the city in 2015 to settle a wrongful death claim.) All 298 passengers and crew aboard Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 were killed when the Boeing 777 was shot down over rebel-held eastern Ukraine; both Ukraine's government and pro-Russian separatists denied responsibility. Ten years ago: Federal authorities in Puerto Rico arrested alleged drug kingpin Jose Figueroa Agosto after a decade-long chase through the Caribbean. Thousands of gays and lesbians from around Europe marched through Poland's capital, Warsaw, to demand equal rights and more tolerance in the heavily Roman Catholic nation. Five years ago: More than 1,000 people attended an interfaith service in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to mourn four Marines who had been shot to death at a reserve facility by a Kuwaiti-born gunman. A suicide bomber with the Islamic State group attacked a crowded marketplace in Iraq's Diyala province, killing 115 people. One year ago: Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was sentenced to life behind bars in a U.S. prison. Prosecutors in Massachusetts dropped a case accusing actor Kevin Spacey of groping a young man at a resort island bar in 2016; the accuser had refused to testify about a missing cellphone that defense lawyers said would support Spacey's claims of innocence. Today's Birthdays: Actor Donald Sutherland is 85. Rock musician Spencer Davis is 81. Sportscaster Verne Lundquist is 80. Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is 73. Rock musician Terry "Geezer" Butler is 71. Actress Lucie Arnaz is 69. Actor David Hasselhoff is 68. Rock musician Fran Smith Jr. (The Hooters) is 68. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is 66. Television producer Mark Burnett is 60. Actress Nancy Giles is 60. Singer Regina Belle is 57. Country singer Craig Morgan is 56. Rock musician Lou Barlow is 54. Contemporary Christian singer Susan Ashton is 53. Actor Andre Royo is 52. Actress Bitty Schram is 52. Actor Jason Clarke is 51. Movie director F. Gary Gray is 51. Singer JC (PM Dawn) is 49. Rapper Sole' is 47. Country singer Luke Bryan is 44. Actor Eric Winter is 44. Actor Mike Vogel is 41. Actor Tom Cullen is 35. Actor Brando Eaton is 34. Rhythm-and-blues singer Jeremih is 33. Actress Summer Bishil is 32. Actress Billie Lourd is 28. Actor Leo Howard is 23.

Today in History -- July 17

MANHATTAN – Teenagers who responded to a&nbsp;<a href="https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living" target="_blank">survey commissioned by the National 4-H Council</a>&nbsp;said that more than 7 in 10 kids between the ages of 13-19 are struggling with their mental health.

Perhaps of equal concern: The same survey indicates that teens are feeling more pressured to hide their feelings, rather than talk to a supportive adult.

“It’s not unusual for young people to report that they’re feeling distressed, anxious or depressed, but I do think what’s unique and probably troublesome around the National 4-H Council report is that the young people thought they couldn’t talk about the feelings they had,” said Elaine Johannes, an extension 4-H Youth Development specialist at Kansas State University.

“They felt pressured to hide their feelings, to pretend they weren’t worried, and to deal with problems on their own. That’s unique.”

The National 4-H Council’s survey was conducted by The Harris Poll from May 4-14. There were 1,516 respondents; 230 of those were 4-H members, and 1,286 had never participated in 4-H.

<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H</a>&nbsp;state leader Wade Weber said the data indicate that 71 percent of the teens felt that they are misunderstood by an older person in their life; 67 percent said at times the pressure is too much for them to handle; and they are three times more likely to feel pressured to talk about their problems than they are to drink alcohol or do drugs.

“The National 4-H Council’s survey takes a temperature of what youth are talking about today,” Weber said. “I think it’s important to highlight those things because young people… are not finding ready-made pathways for them to talk about their problems with the adults who are very concerned about them. Those are the types of things that we are wanting to follow up on as a state 4-H program.”

Johannes said the current findings are very similar to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2019/02/20/most-u-s-teens-see-anxiety-and-depression-as-a-major-problem-among-their-peers" target="_blank">2019 study of mental health of teens</a>, conducted by the Pew Research Center. However, teens did report that the COVID-19 pandemic has increased their sense of loneliness and made it more difficult to connect with their support systems.

Teens, she said, may be reacting to the perception that adults also are distressed.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/05/07/a-third-of-americans-experienced-high-levels-of-psychological-distress-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak" target="_blank">The Pew Research Center reported in May</a>&nbsp;that 33 percent of Americans are experiencing greater psychological distress as a result of the global pandemic.

“I do think that is a factor in how the young people who responded to the (National 4-H Council) poll saying they were not comfortable talking about their own emotional health,” Johannes said. “I assume they are noticing that the adults probably don’t have the capacity to listen right now because we are struggling with our own emotional health.

“It’s this constellation of issues that really puts our young people at most risk, but also may make them more resilient.”

Other key findings from the National 4-H Council’s survey include:

71% of those surveyed say school work makes them feel anxious or depressed.

65% of those surveyed say uncertainty about the future makes them feel anxious or depressed.

Approximately 45% say that they try to ignore their feelings or spend more time alone when they are dealing with mental health issues.

46% of teens reported social media as their most common outlet for learning about coping mechanisms for mental health and 43% follow or support someone on social media who openly talks about their mental health issues.

82% of teens are calling on America to talk more openly and honestly about mental health issues in this country.

79% of teens surveyed wish there was an inclusive environment or safe space for people in school to talk about mental health. 70% wish their school taught them more about mental health and coping mechanisms.

While the survey brought out some grim statistics, Weber said it’s important that adults hear the message and respond in positive ways, rather than try to shield their children from life’s realities. He notes that 65 percent of teens also reported that they want their family members to talk with them more about their mental health.

“Exercise some courage; exercise some humility to be able to say we’re in a challenging time right now, but it’s an opportunity to hear one another and work toward solutions together,” he said. “Doing so will help us develop resiliency as a family unit and as individuals. It’s important that young people believe that they can disclose their problems while knowing that there are support systems in their lives that want to help them navigate those in a way that includes healthy coping mechanisms and practices.”

For parents, that may mean re-framing the challenges they are facing, according to Johannes.

“Change the language you’re using and the focus in such a way that we are representing resilience,” she said. “You can model resilience and use words that represent growing stronger. For example, instead of talking about deficits, risks and limits, talk about opportunities for the young person to discover their identity, and the social and emotional health they are building during this time of challenge.”

Weber added: “One of the things I would encourage along the way is the ability to be patient, purposeful and persistent. Because you can’t just turn around and say to a young person, ‘Okay dad has 30 minutes, what’s going on?’ That’s usually not the recipe for authentic conversation and sharing.

“But if you can give that 30 minutes, be with them, try and connect into their world, see the world through their eyes. The ability to empathize – not necessarily solve their problems – is a key first step in helping that connection to form.”

A full interview on this topic with Johannes and Weber is&nbsp;<a href="https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/soundlivingksu/SL-071020L.mp3" target="_blank">available online</a>.&nbsp;The National 4-H Council’s full report is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living" target="_blank">https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living</a>.

MANHATTAN – Teenagers who responded to a&nbsp;<a href="https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living" target="_blank">survey commissioned by the National 4-H Council</a>&nbsp;said that more than 7 in 10 kids between the ages of 13-19 are struggling with their mental health.Perhaps of equal concern: The same survey indicates that teens are feeling more pressured to hide their feelings, rather than talk to a supportive adult.“It’s not unusual for young people to report that they’re feeling distressed, anxious or depressed, but I do think what’s unique and probably troublesome around the National 4-H Council report is that the young people thought they couldn’t talk about the feelings they had,” said Elaine Johannes, an extension 4-H Youth Development specialist at Kansas State University.“They felt pressured to hide their feelings, to pretend they weren’t worried, and to deal with problems on their own. That’s unique.”The National 4-H Council’s survey was conducted by The Harris Poll from May 4-14. There were 1,516 respondents; 230 of those were 4-H members, and 1,286 had never participated in 4-H.<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H</a>&nbsp;state leader Wade Weber said the data indicate that 71 percent of the teens felt that they are misunderstood by an older person in their life; 67 percent said at times the pressure is too much for them to handle; and they are three times more likely to feel pressured to talk about their problems than they are to drink alcohol or do drugs.“The National 4-H Council’s survey takes a temperature of what youth are talking about today,” Weber said. “I think it’s important to highlight those things because young people… are not finding ready-made pathways for them to talk about their problems with the adults who are very concerned about them. Those are the types of things that we are wanting to follow up on as a state 4-H program.”Johannes said the current findings are very similar to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2019/02/20/most-u-s-teens-see-anxiety-and-depression-as-a-major-problem-among-their-peers" target="_blank">2019 study of mental health of teens</a>, conducted by the Pew Research Center. However, teens did report that the COVID-19 pandemic has increased their sense of loneliness and made it more difficult to connect with their support systems.Teens, she said, may be reacting to the perception that adults also are distressed.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/05/07/a-third-of-americans-experienced-high-levels-of-psychological-distress-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak" target="_blank">The Pew Research Center reported in May</a>&nbsp;that 33 percent of Americans are experiencing greater psychological distress as a result of the global pandemic.“I do think that is a factor in how the young people who responded to the (National 4-H Council) poll saying they were not comfortable talking about their own emotional health,” Johannes said. “I assume they are noticing that the adults probably don’t have the capacity to listen right now because we are struggling with our own emotional health.“It’s this constellation of issues that really puts our young people at most risk, but also may make them more resilient.”Other key findings from the National 4-H Council’s survey include:71% of those surveyed say school work makes them feel anxious or depressed.65% of those surveyed say uncertainty about the future makes them feel anxious or depressed.Approximately 45% say that they try to ignore their feelings or spend more time alone when they are dealing with mental health issues.46% of teens reported social media as their most common outlet for learning about coping mechanisms for mental health and 43% follow or support someone on social media who openly talks about their mental health issues.82% of teens are calling on America to talk more openly and honestly about mental health issues in this country.79% of teens surveyed wish there was an inclusive environment or safe space for people in school to talk about mental health. 70% wish their school taught them more about mental health and coping mechanisms.While the survey brought out some grim statistics, Weber said it’s important that adults hear the message and respond in positive ways, rather than try to shield their children from life’s realities. He notes that 65 percent of teens also reported that they want their family members to talk with them more about their mental health.“Exercise some courage; exercise some humility to be able to say we’re in a challenging time right now, but it’s an opportunity to hear one another and work toward solutions together,” he said. “Doing so will help us develop resiliency as a family unit and as individuals. It’s important that young people believe that they can disclose their problems while knowing that there are support systems in their lives that want to help them navigate those in a way that includes healthy coping mechanisms and practices.”For parents, that may mean re-framing the challenges they are facing, according to Johannes.“Change the language you’re using and the focus in such a way that we are representing resilience,” she said. “You can model resilience and use words that represent growing stronger. For example, instead of talking about deficits, risks and limits, talk about opportunities for the young person to discover their identity, and the social and emotional health they are building during this time of challenge.”Weber added: “One of the things I would encourage along the way is the ability to be patient, purposeful and persistent. Because you can’t just turn around and say to a young person, ‘Okay dad has 30 minutes, what’s going on?’ That’s usually not the recipe for authentic conversation and sharing.“But if you can give that 30 minutes, be with them, try and connect into their world, see the world through their eyes. The ability to empathize – not necessarily solve their problems – is a key first step in helping that connection to form.”A full interview on this topic with Johannes and Weber is&nbsp;<a href="https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/soundlivingksu/SL-071020L.mp3" target="_blank">available online</a>.&nbsp;The National 4-H Council’s full report is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living" target="_blank">https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living</a>.

Survey indicates 7 in 10 teens struggle with mental health

NEW YORK (AP) — Target, CVS Health and Publix Super Markets on Thursday joined the growing list of national chains that will require customers to wear face masks regardless of where cities or states stand on the issue.

Target’s mandatory face mask policy will go into effect Aug. 1, and all CVS stores will begin requiring them on Monday. Publix Super Markets Inc., based in Lakeland, Florida, said that its rule will kick in on Tuesday at all 1,200 stores.

More than 80% of Target’s 1,800 stores already require customers to wear masks due to local and state regulations. Target will hand out masks at entrances to those who need them.&nbsp;

The announcements come one day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2efc9640fe70badfa6c8f6f5b3923f68">the nation’s largest retailer, Walmart,</a>&nbsp;said that it would mandate face shields for all customers starting Monday.

Starbucks, Best Buy, Kohl’s and Kroger Co. have also announced mandatory masks nationwide in recent days.

Retailers have hesitated to make masks mandatory nationwide out of fear of angering some customers over what, even in a pandemic, has become a political issue.

They have been reluctant to put employees in the position of becoming enforcers. Confrontations with customers and store employees have played out in multiple incidents caught on video.

It was difficult to enforce such rules even in states that mandate face masks. However, the recent surge of new virus cases — particularly in Florida, California, Texas and Arizona — has left them with no choice, retail experts say.

“To be clear, we’re not asking our store employees to play the role of enforcer, ” said Jon Roberts, the chief operating officer at CVS. “What we are asking is that customers help protect themselves and those around them by listening to the experts and heeding the call to wear a face covering.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590784947764.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Target, CVS Health and Publix Super Markets on Thursday joined the growing list of national chains that will require customers to wear face masks regardless of where cities or states stand on the issue.Target’s mandatory face mask policy will go into effect Aug. 1, and all CVS stores will begin requiring them on Monday. Publix Super Markets Inc., based in Lakeland, Florida, said that its rule will kick in on Tuesday at all 1,200 stores.More than 80% of Target’s 1,800 stores already require customers to wear masks due to local and state regulations. Target will hand out masks at entrances to those who need them.&nbsp;The announcements come one day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2efc9640fe70badfa6c8f6f5b3923f68">the nation’s largest retailer, Walmart,</a>&nbsp;said that it would mandate face shields for all customers starting Monday.Starbucks, Best Buy, Kohl’s and Kroger Co. have also announced mandatory masks nationwide in recent days.Retailers have hesitated to make masks mandatory nationwide out of fear of angering some customers over what, even in a pandemic, has become a political issue.They have been reluctant to put employees in the position of becoming enforcers. Confrontations with customers and store employees have played out in multiple incidents caught on video.It was difficult to enforce such rules even in states that mandate face masks. However, the recent surge of new virus cases — particularly in Florida, California, Texas and Arizona — has left them with no choice, retail experts say.“To be clear, we’re not asking our store employees to play the role of enforcer, ” said Jon Roberts, the chief operating officer at CVS. “What we are asking is that customers help protect themselves and those around them by listening to the experts and heeding the call to wear a face covering.”

List of national retail chains requiring masks is growing

TOPEKA -- The 47th Kansas Shrine Bowl is scheduled for Saturday in Topeka, and if you can't make the game, you can listen to it on KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM).

The all-star football classic is scheduled to kick at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Hummer Sports Complex, 2751 SW East Circle Dr S #1, in Topeka.

Local and area players scheduled to participate in the game include the following.

No. 12 Jackson Kavanagh, Salina High School Central

No. 14 Ty Garrett, Salina High School South

No. 60 Creighton Johnson, Beloit High School

No. 74 Eyann Zimmerman, Republic County High School

TOPEKA -- The 47th Kansas Shrine Bowl is scheduled for Saturday in Topeka, and if you can't make the game, you can listen to it on KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM).The all-star football classic is scheduled to kick at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Hummer Sports Complex, 2751 SW East Circle Dr S #1, in Topeka.Pregame on KINA will begin at 6:45 p.m.Local and area players scheduled to participate in the game include the following.No. 12 Jackson Kavanagh, Salina High School CentralNo. 14 Ty Garrett, Salina High School SouthNo. 60 Creighton Johnson, Beloit High SchoolNo. 74 Eyann Zimmerman, Republic County High School

Listen to the 47th Kansas Shrine Bowl on KINA

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice met for their first meeting Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DylmJgK8kuiU&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cd4fa028bae0f4393454108d8251538be%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637300120359291733&amp;sdata=vt8ORYrrKVWjSH3rjTglaZLVRXDynNEqpFgY764LN0c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to watch a replay of the meeting.

In a media release, Governor Kelly said, “This is not the first time a group like this has been convened to discuss the structural inequalities that exist in our country. But I believe this national moment has provided the Commission on Racial Equity and Justice, and the state of Kansas an opportunity to have an honest and informed conversation about the work that must be done.”

Co-chairs Dr. Tiffany Anderson, Superintendent of Topeka Public Schools USD 501, and Dr. Shannon Portillo, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs KU Edwards Campus &amp; School of Professional Studies, led the conversation in discussing the structure, schedule, and priority goals of the Commission.

“We had a robust discussion in our first meeting, outlining areas for inquiry and listening sessions,”&nbsp;Dr. Shannon Portillo, said.&nbsp;“I am looking forward to engaging with our community listening sessions, and ultimately developing a report for Governor Kelly’s administration to take action on.”

The Commission plans to meet biweekly, every other Thursday, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for July 23rd, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. The meetings will continue to be held virtually and streamed to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUChH3fB2PkiJjZlo55c9UH2Q%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cd4fa028bae0f4393454108d8251538be%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637300120359291733&amp;sdata=fJQxKTScrj4scj3PuJzDC7TcOMi8bqKHlomOVq5qvaA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Governor Laura Kelly’s YouTube page.</a>

Governor Kelly tasked the Commission with focusing their work first on law enforcement and policing in Kansas. Commission members discussed the following possible topics for the initial focus of their work:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC)

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training (KSCPOST)

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Former Commissions and reports (Federal &amp; Local)

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;School resource officers and policing in schools

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bail bonds

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;K-9 officers and dispute resolution

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualified immunity

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corrections officers

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recruitment, hiring, and decertification practices

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Police misconduct records

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594415416015.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly and members of her Commission on Racial Equality held their first meeting online this week." />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly and members of her Commission on Racial Equality held their first meeting online this week.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice met for their first meeting Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DylmJgK8kuiU&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cd4fa028bae0f4393454108d8251538be%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637300120359291733&amp;sdata=vt8ORYrrKVWjSH3rjTglaZLVRXDynNEqpFgY764LN0c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to watch a replay of the meeting.In a media release, Governor Kelly said, “This is not the first time a group like this has been convened to discuss the structural inequalities that exist in our country. But I believe this national moment has provided the Commission on Racial Equity and Justice, and the state of Kansas an opportunity to have an honest and informed conversation about the work that must be done.”Co-chairs Dr. Tiffany Anderson, Superintendent of Topeka Public Schools USD 501, and Dr. Shannon Portillo, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs KU Edwards Campus &amp; School of Professional Studies, led the conversation in discussing the structure, schedule, and priority goals of the Commission.“We had a robust discussion in our first meeting, outlining areas for inquiry and listening sessions,”&nbsp;Dr. Shannon Portillo, said.&nbsp;“I am looking forward to engaging with our community listening sessions, and ultimately developing a report for Governor Kelly’s administration to take action on.”The Commission plans to meet biweekly, every other Thursday, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for July 23rd, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. The meetings will continue to be held virtually and streamed to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUChH3fB2PkiJjZlo55c9UH2Q%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cd4fa028bae0f4393454108d8251538be%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637300120359291733&amp;sdata=fJQxKTScrj4scj3PuJzDC7TcOMi8bqKHlomOVq5qvaA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Governor Laura Kelly’s YouTube page.</a>Governor Kelly tasked the Commission with focusing their work first on law enforcement and policing in Kansas. Commission members discussed the following possible topics for the initial focus of their work:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC)•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training (KSCPOST)•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Former Commissions and reports (Federal &amp; Local)<ul>
 <li>The President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing</li><li>Forward Through Ferguson Police Reform</li><li>Kerner Commission</li><li>Other Kansas-specific reports</li>
 </ul>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;School resource officers and policing in schools•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bail bonds•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;K-9 officers and dispute resolution•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualified immunity•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corrections officers•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recruitment, hiring, and decertification practices•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Police misconduct records•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Police unions and contract negotiations•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Officer Residency requirements•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Social determinants of health in prisons•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debtors’ prisonsThe group discussed the methods of collecting data and reports for the Commission. National Governors Association, Governor’s staff, and stakeholders will be facilitating data and research for the work of the Commission.“Engaging with the public throughout the course of these meetings will be crucial to crafting recommendations and policies that are specific to Kansas, and to amplifying as many voices throughout the community as possible,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.The Commission plans to hold a number of virtual listening sessions with stakeholders and communities across the state. This includes, but is not limited to:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public Defenders•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Law Enforcement•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Community members who have engaged with the criminal justice system•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Spanish and other non-English-speaking communities•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Immigrant and refugee communitiesTo engage with the public, the Commission will be providing an email address, mailing address, constituent services line, and Twitter hashtag (#KansasCREJ). More information regarding how constituents can submit feedback and testimony will be made available next week.