From the City of Ellinwood...

&nbsp;As a part of the City’s clean up initiative the City will accept various items for disposal at the city public works maintenance shop located at 505 East Santa Fe.&nbsp; This drop off is available to city residents only.&nbsp; Signage will be posted where various items are to be placed.

HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS, PAINTS, INSECTICIDE, OR OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

¨&nbsp;Tires. Small pickup and car tires only.&nbsp; No rims or large tires.&nbsp; Tires should be left at the designated area south of the city shop.

¨&nbsp;Computers, televisions, monitors, microwaves, and other electronic material should be placed in the designated dumpster.

¨&nbsp;Iron and other metal products should be placed in the designated dumpster.

¨&nbsp;Appliances should be placed in the designated area.

¨&nbsp;All other household material should be placed in the designated dumpster

PLEASE PLACE ALL ITEMS IN THE PROPER CONTAINERS AND NOT ON THE GROUND.

Now is the time to clean up your property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590785388573.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Ellinwood...<h2>CITY-WIDE CLEAN-UP</h2>MAY 30TH—JUNE 7TH&nbsp;As a part of the City’s clean up initiative the City will accept various items for disposal at the city public works maintenance shop located at 505 East Santa Fe.&nbsp; This drop off is available to city residents only.&nbsp; Signage will be posted where various items are to be placed.HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS, PAINTS, INSECTICIDE, OR OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.Accepted items are as follows:¨&nbsp;Tires. Small pickup and car tires only.&nbsp; No rims or large tires.&nbsp; Tires should be left at the designated area south of the city shop.¨&nbsp;Computers, televisions, monitors, microwaves, and other electronic material should be placed in the designated dumpster.¨&nbsp;Iron and other metal products should be placed in the designated dumpster.¨&nbsp;Appliances should be placed in the designated area.¨&nbsp;All other household material should be placed in the designated dumpsterPLEASE PLACE ALL ITEMS IN THE PROPER CONTAINERS AND NOT ON THE GROUND.Now is the time to clean up your property.

City-wide cleanup in Ellinwood (May 30 - June 7)

Bat Cats Schedule First Pitch Banquet for June 5

The Center For Counseling-Mental Health Awareness Month

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588782177053.jpeg" alt="Publication1.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Publication1.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Rush County Fire District #3 Gun Raffle- Wednesday, July 1st

Catholic Charities COVID-19 HELPLINE

Now through June 30th you can Catch A FREE Ride anywhere in Barton
County with Sunflower Diversified Services and their General Transportation
Buses.

Call 620-792-77 97 and let them know where and when you need a
ride. The Sunflower Buses run from 5 am until 10 pm Monday-Friday and from 8 am
until 4 pm saturday and Sundays. First come, first served. Get a Free ride
anywhere in Barton County now through June 30th with Sunflower Diversified
Services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577130476400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Now through June 30th you can Catch A FREE Ride anywhere in Barton
County with Sunflower Diversified Services and their General Transportation
Buses.Call 620-792-77 97 and let them know where and when you need a
ride. The Sunflower Buses run from 5 am until 10 pm Monday-Friday and from 8 am
until 4 pm saturday and Sundays. First come, first served. Get a Free ride
anywhere in Barton County now through June 30th with Sunflower Diversified
Services.

Sunflower Diversified Services-Catch A Free Ride

The Covid-19 outbreak has changed our lives. Many schedules have been altered. Some positions have been furloughed. There’s no doubt the pandemic has forced some into desperate times. That’s why Eagle Communications and the United Way of Central Kansas have initiated a relief fund to help the those in serious need in our local community. If you’ve been blessed to have more than enough at this time, We’d encourage you to make a contribution to the United Way of Central Kansas. Through their 22 partner agencies, aid will be provided to our neighbors in need. 

Plus the first $5,000 contributed, will be matched. Robert &amp; Patricia Schmidt were the founders of Eagle Communications, and their foundation is offering this opportunity to help our local communities. 

To make a contribution by cash or check, mail to Eagle Communications at Box 609, or leave it in the drop box next the main door at the Eagle Media Center. For debit or credit card contributions, follow the link above. The United Way of Central Kansas and Eagle communications thank you for offering relief to the hardest hit in our communities and for Living United.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585671891797.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585671909444.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><center><a href="https://www.uwck.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=1"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585673368980.png"></a></center></div>The Covid-19 outbreak has changed our lives. Many schedules have been altered. Some positions have been furloughed. There’s no doubt the pandemic has forced some into desperate times. That’s why Eagle Communications and the United Way of Central Kansas have initiated a relief fund to help the those in serious need in our local community. If you’ve been blessed to have more than enough at this time, We’d encourage you to make a contribution to the United Way of Central Kansas. Through their 22 partner agencies, aid will be provided to our neighbors in need. Plus the first $5,000 contributed, will be matched. Robert &amp; Patricia Schmidt were the founders of Eagle Communications, and their foundation is offering this opportunity to help our local communities. To make a contribution by cash or check, mail to Eagle Communications at Box 609, or leave it in the drop box next the main door at the Eagle Media Center. For debit or credit card contributions, follow the link above. The United Way of Central Kansas and Eagle communications thank you for offering relief to the hardest hit in our communities and for Living United.

Central Kansas Relief Fund (Schmidt Foundation Matching up to $5,000 for United Way of Central Kansas)

We've heard some users have had issues with the stream on their devices.&nbsp; If you have problems with the stream, try <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009181829238">CLICKING HERE</a> to watch on Facebook Live.

Website:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendcatholic.com/">https://greatbendcatholic.com/</a> Giving Portal:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=tYgT1GfNxRUldiimjHMvOQjqB3jJUp6blsjs92DNbYHo-7YkZiNiYhc46uwjFenmums9tj3wI7okSf0MyMa8urfywW4nGAk_Gmf7iMLfMkI=&amp;ver=3">Click Here</a>

Prince of Peace Mass - 9AM<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-ywfAaaObuE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>We've heard some users have had issues with the stream on their devices.&nbsp; If you have problems with the stream, try <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009181829238">CLICKING HERE</a> to watch on Facebook Live. Website:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendcatholic.com/">https://greatbendcatholic.com/</a> Giving Portal:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=tYgT1GfNxRUldiimjHMvOQjqB3jJUp6blsjs92DNbYHo-7YkZiNiYhc46uwjFenmums9tj3wI7okSf0MyMa8urfywW4nGAk_Gmf7iMLfMkI=&amp;ver=3">Click Here</a>

Saturday Mass Livestream (5/30)

Bringing the Great Bend zoo to you

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post


















The Great Bend Recreation Commission has revised the summer program
guide several times over the past couple of months. Normally, the guide to
activities scheduled by the Rec Commission is finished in March.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced several revisions following closures and gathering
restrictions. 

GBRC is part of the Kansas Recreation &amp; Park Association that
already has guidelines established with moving forward with activities, classes
and sports. Great Bend Rec Aquatics Director Megan Hammeke says their events,
including baseball and softball, will look different but at least there will be
something.


"We will have signs posted," said Hammeke. "We know there will be things sadly missed but we rather have some ball than no ball."


For the foreseeable future, bleachers will be off limits for fans at baseball
and softball fields. Anyone wishing to watch the games will need to bring their
own seating. Hammeke says sunflower seeds will also be prohibited. These rules apply to all GBRC sponsored events and tournaments hosted at the ballfields. 

For a list of rescheduled and upcoming events and to enroll, visit <a href="https://greatbendrec.com/">greatbendrec.com</a>.

"You can click on the link for enrolling now and you can enroll your family for all our classes online," Hammeke said.


Enrollment for summer programs and swimming lessons begin June 1. The My
Backyard Playground on 18th Street will reopen June 1.





<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575321849499.jpeg" alt="For the time being, no access to bleachers and no sunflower seeds will be allowed at Great Bend Recreation Commission games." />
 <figcaption>For the time being, no access to bleachers and no sunflower seeds will be allowed at Great Bend Recreation Commission games.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend Post
















The Great Bend Recreation Commission has revised the summer program
guide several times over the past couple of months. Normally, the guide to
activities scheduled by the Rec Commission is finished in March.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced several revisions following closures and gathering
restrictions. GBRC is part of the Kansas Recreation &amp; Park Association that
already has guidelines established with moving forward with activities, classes
and sports. Great Bend Rec Aquatics Director Megan Hammeke says their events,
including baseball and softball, will look different but at least there will be
something.
"We will have signs posted," said Hammeke. "We know there will be things sadly missed but we rather have some ball than no ball."
For the foreseeable future, bleachers will be off limits for fans at baseball
and softball fields. Anyone wishing to watch the games will need to bring their
own seating. Hammeke says sunflower seeds will also be prohibited. These rules apply to all GBRC sponsored events and tournaments hosted at the ballfields. 
For a list of rescheduled and upcoming events and to enroll, visit <a href="https://greatbendrec.com/">greatbendrec.com</a>."You can click on the link for enrolling now and you can enroll your family for all our classes online," Hammeke said.
Enrollment for summer programs and swimming lessons begin June 1. The My
Backyard Playground on 18th Street will reopen June 1.

Great Bend Rec: No bleachers, no sunflower seeds at ballgames 

written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension Office

I just noticed that May was designated as Older American’s Month, so I’ll take advantage of the last day of the month to share some information from Erin Yelland, our Adult Development and Aging specialist at KSU. We are hearing a lot these days about how our seniors may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Let’s take a closer look and share some ways to combat this.

Loneliness is a feeling or experience that some people might have. It can occur when you do not have as much social interaction as you would like or even after a major life transition – such as divorce, death, a move, or even quarantine due to COVID19. Social isolation is when someone has little contact with other people on a regular basis.

So, what are some ways to combat loneliness and social isolation?

3) Connect with community groups, family members and friends.

Connecting can be difficult during COVID19 but here are some easy ideas. Pick up the phone and call your friends, step outside and chat with neighbors, mail a letter, connect via video calls, send silly pictures, and try to have fun from afar.

Give me a call for some excellent fact sheets from our Keys to Embracing Aging resources. I am happy to share.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141417887.jpeg" alt="Donna Krug" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug</figcaption>
 </figure>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension OfficeI just noticed that May was designated as Older American’s Month, so I’ll take advantage of the last day of the month to share some information from Erin Yelland, our Adult Development and Aging specialist at KSU. We are hearing a lot these days about how our seniors may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Let’s take a closer look and share some ways to combat this.Loneliness is a feeling or experience that some people might have. It can occur when you do not have as much social interaction as you would like or even after a major life transition – such as divorce, death, a move, or even quarantine due to COVID19. Social isolation is when someone has little contact with other people on a regular basis.So, what are some ways to combat loneliness and social isolation?1) Focus on your sense of purpose2) Maintain your sense of belonging3) Connect with community groups, family members and friends.Connecting can be difficult during COVID19 but here are some easy ideas. Pick up the phone and call your friends, step outside and chat with neighbors, mail a letter, connect via video calls, send silly pictures, and try to have fun from afar.Give me a call for some excellent fact sheets from our Keys to Embracing Aging resources. I am happy to share.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.

KRUG: Happy Older American’s Month

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Firefighters to gain experience with airplane fires during upcoming training" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/38ktk-de24e3?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Area firefighters to train for airplane fires in Hays

Agenda Meeting June
1, 2020 9:00 a.m. Until Close

B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. 

D. Consider Minutes of the May 26, 2020, Regular Meeting. 

E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the
discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After
being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any
organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. 

II. OLD BUSINESS
- Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard
at this time.

A. ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUND: Working Capital Grants:

-On May 18, 2020, the Commission, following a directive from
the Kansas Department of Commerce, determined that the EDRLF could be used as
grant funding. On May 26, 2020, the Commission tabled consideration of grants
for Hoisington Hospitality, LLC, dba Rodeway Inn and Suites, Hoisington,
Kansas, and Industrial Services of Kansas, rural Great Bend. Sue Cooper, Grant
Coordinator, will ask that the Commission consider those applications at this
time. There is $114,676.00 available for use. 

III. NEW BUSINESS -
All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.

A. COUNTY CLERK’S
OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes:

-Donna Zimmerman, County Clerk, will present a listing of
Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on
file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and
are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office. 

B. ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUND: Working Capital Grants:

-On May 26, 2020, the Commission set a deadline of noon,
Friday, May 29, 2020, to receive applications for the funds. Ms. Cooper will
present the remaining applications. 

C. GRANT AWARDS:
Kansas Health Foundation Healthy Community Initiative Health Equity Mini-Grant
to the Great Bend Senior Center:

-The Kansas Health Foundation awarded $18,908.00 to the
Great Bend Senior Center through a Healthy Community Initiative Health Equity
Mini-Grant. This project was a resident-led approach to address COVID-19
related food storage and preservation to respond to the increase in demand for
meal preparation and delivery services for the elderly in Great Bend,
Hoisington, Ellinwood and LaCrosse. The funds will be used to purchase food
preservation equipment such as refrigeration, freezers, shelving and
preparation areas at the Great Bend Senior Center. Ms. Cooper will ask that the
Commission authorize the pass through of funds to the Great Bend Senior Center.


D. SOLID WASTE
DEPARTMENT: Rebuild of the Caterpillar Model 826K Wheel Tractor Compactor by
Foley Equipment:

-In 2015, the Solid Waste Department purchased a Caterpillar
Model 826K Wheel Tractor Compactor from Foley Equipment. This essential piece
of equipment is used daily to reduce the amount of space needed for trash. At
this time, it is suggested that Foley be authorized to rebuild the power train,
recondition all cylinders, replace hydraulic hoses, reseal control values and
condition the lift yoke. Other work includes an update to the cab, air
conditioning and heating systems, replacing a broken compactor tip, new paint
and decals and updated cleaner bar and finger system. The work, which comes
with a three-year 5000 hour power train and hydraulic warranty, is estimated at
$359,852.00. Monies are available in the Solid Waste fund for this purpose.
Phil Hathcock, County Administrator, will provide details. 

E. SOLID WASTE: Phase
IV Cell Construction – Change Orders:

-Malm Construction has submitted change orders relating to
the construction of Phase IV at the Landfill. Mr. Hathcock will provide
details. 

IV. ENDING BUSINESS
– After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including
announcements, will be heard.

-Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission
will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions,
sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other
documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take
place throughout the day. 

B. APPOINTMENTS:
Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:
JUNE 1, 2020 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting

– Meeting as the Governing Body of Fire District No. 1 10:15
a.m. or following the close of the Fire District Meeting 

– Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer 

10:30 a.m. – Review of Values – Barb Esfeld, County
Appraiser 

11:00 a.m. – Replacement Vehicle and Reinvestment Grant
(Parent Project) – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director 

11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Phil Hathcock,
County Administrator, and Donna Zimmerman, County Clerk 

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m.
Sheriff Brian Bellendir is scheduled for June 4, 2020. 

B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or
proposals for initial consideration. 

C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Mondays
during regular business hours. 

D. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal
appointments related to County business at their discretion. 

E. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Monday,
June 8, 2020. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590786781281.jpeg" alt="The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/2W9bXq2. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793- 1800 for instructions." />
 <figcaption>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/2W9bXq2. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793- 1800 for instructions.</figcaption>
 </figure>Agenda Meeting June
1, 2020 9:00 a.m. Until Close I. OPENING BUSINESS: A. Call Meeting to Order. B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. D. Consider Minutes of the May 26, 2020, Regular Meeting. E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the
discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After
being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any
organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. II. OLD BUSINESS
- Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard
at this time. A. ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUND: Working Capital Grants: -On May 18, 2020, the Commission, following a directive from
the Kansas Department of Commerce, determined that the EDRLF could be used as
grant funding. On May 26, 2020, the Commission tabled consideration of grants
for Hoisington Hospitality, LLC, dba Rodeway Inn and Suites, Hoisington,
Kansas, and Industrial Services of Kansas, rural Great Bend. Sue Cooper, Grant
Coordinator, will ask that the Commission consider those applications at this
time. There is $114,676.00 available for use. III. NEW BUSINESS -
All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.
A. COUNTY CLERK’S
OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: -Donna Zimmerman, County Clerk, will present a listing of
Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on
file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and
are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office. B. ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUND: Working Capital Grants: -On May 26, 2020, the Commission set a deadline of noon,
Friday, May 29, 2020, to receive applications for the funds. Ms. Cooper will
present the remaining applications. C. GRANT AWARDS:
Kansas Health Foundation Healthy Community Initiative Health Equity Mini-Grant
to the Great Bend Senior Center: -The Kansas Health Foundation awarded $18,908.00 to the
Great Bend Senior Center through a Healthy Community Initiative Health Equity
Mini-Grant. This project was a resident-led approach to address COVID-19
related food storage and preservation to respond to the increase in demand for
meal preparation and delivery services for the elderly in Great Bend,
Hoisington, Ellinwood and LaCrosse. The funds will be used to purchase food
preservation equipment such as refrigeration, freezers, shelving and
preparation areas at the Great Bend Senior Center. Ms. Cooper will ask that the
Commission authorize the pass through of funds to the Great Bend Senior Center.
D. SOLID WASTE
DEPARTMENT: Rebuild of the Caterpillar Model 826K Wheel Tractor Compactor by
Foley Equipment: -In 2015, the Solid Waste Department purchased a Caterpillar
Model 826K Wheel Tractor Compactor from Foley Equipment. This essential piece
of equipment is used daily to reduce the amount of space needed for trash. At
this time, it is suggested that Foley be authorized to rebuild the power train,
recondition all cylinders, replace hydraulic hoses, reseal control values and
condition the lift yoke. Other work includes an update to the cab, air
conditioning and heating systems, replacing a broken compactor tip, new paint
and decals and updated cleaner bar and finger system. The work, which comes
with a three-year 5000 hour power train and hydraulic warranty, is estimated at
$359,852.00. Monies are available in the Solid Waste fund for this purpose.
Phil Hathcock, County Administrator, will provide details. E. SOLID WASTE: Phase
IV Cell Construction – Change Orders: -Malm Construction has submitted change orders relating to
the construction of Phase IV at the Landfill. Mr. Hathcock will provide
details. IV. ENDING BUSINESS
– After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including
announcements, will be heard. A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission
will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions,
sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other
documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take
place throughout the day. B. APPOINTMENTS:
Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:
JUNE 1, 2020 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Meeting as the Governing Body of Fire District No. 1 10:15
a.m. or following the close of the Fire District Meeting – Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer 10:30 a.m. – Review of Values – Barb Esfeld, County
Appraiser 11:00 a.m. – Replacement Vehicle and Reinvestment Grant
(Parent Project) – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director 11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Phil Hathcock,
County Administrator, and Donna Zimmerman, County Clerk THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m.
Sheriff Brian Bellendir is scheduled for June 4, 2020. V. OTHER BUSINESS: A. Discussion Items. B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or
proposals for initial consideration. C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Mondays
during regular business hours. D. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal
appointments related to County business at their discretion. E. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Monday,
June 8, 2020. VI. ADJOURN.

Monday Barton County Commission Meeting Agenda

It’s a two-minute recap of a few of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576531812170.jpeg" alt="Barton County chose to remove all gathering business restrictions this week." />
 <figcaption>Barton County chose to remove all gathering business restrictions this week.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of a few of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/az5j42nc/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Eagle Radio's News Week in Review

RENO COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 2p.m. Friday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford Focus driven by&nbsp; Mayer, Travis William Mayer, 35, Nickerson, was westbound on Kansas 14 four miles west of Nickerson.

The car crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2006 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; Jaret Taylor Frack, 42, Bel Aire.

Mayer was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to the&nbsp;Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center.

Frack was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

A crash has closed K-14/K-96 at Sego Road west of Nickerson.

Regular traffic is being routed onto Sego Road and Fairview Road.

Truck traffic is being diverted onto 69th in Nickerson to U.S. 50.

Motorists should slow down and use caution through the area affected by the crash.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574024804866.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 2p.m. Friday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford Focus driven by&nbsp; Mayer, Travis William Mayer, 35, Nickerson, was westbound on Kansas 14 four miles west of Nickerson.The car crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2006 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; Jaret Taylor Frack, 42, Bel Aire.Vehicle 2, which was eastbound on K14.Mayer was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to the&nbsp;Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center.Frack was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.----------A crash has closed K-14/K-96 at Sego Road west of Nickerson.Regular traffic is being routed onto Sego Road and Fairview Road.Truck traffic is being diverted onto 69th in Nickerson to U.S. 50.Motorists should slow down and use caution through the area affected by the crash.

Update: Kansas man dies after crash with semi

Do and Don't: cloth face covering

<div><iframe title="Local extension district wheat field day to broadcast online" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/2g5db-de24c1?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Local extension district shifts wheat field day online

No sports? Let's dig out the classics from Eagle Radio.

This re-broadcast takes us to July 2016 as the Larned Indians American Legion Baseball team made it a clean sweep in the AA State Tournament in Fort Scott. The Indians secured the state championship with this win over Russell.

Listen to the broadcast below...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589303921013.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>No sports? Let's dig out the classics from Eagle Radio.This re-broadcast takes us to July 2016 as the Larned Indians American Legion Baseball team made it a clean sweep in the AA State Tournament in Fort Scott. The Indians secured the state championship with this win over Russell.Listen to the broadcast below...<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/pqinppb4/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

LISTEN: Larned Classic - State Legion Championship, 2016

From their social media post, St. John - Hudson USD 350 announced new coaches for football and boys basketball for the 2020-2021 school year.

Pending board approval, Danton Hilton will be the Tiger boys basketball coach and Justin Nusser was named the football coach.&nbsp;

Hilton served as an assistant coach with the basketball team last year and coached at Attica High School before that. He was part of Attica's state championship in 2016. Hilton's primary job is recreation director in the St. John community.

Nusser will also be hired as a PE and science teacher along with his football coaching duties. Nusser is a St. John graduate with experience teaching in Stafford and Plainville.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590780640538.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From their social media post, St. John - Hudson USD 350 announced new coaches for football and boys basketball for the 2020-2021 school year.Pending board approval, Danton Hilton will be the Tiger boys basketball coach and Justin Nusser was named the football coach.&nbsp;Hilton served as an assistant coach with the basketball team last year and coached at Attica High School before that. He was part of Attica's state championship in 2016. Hilton's primary job is recreation director in the St. John community.Nusser will also be hired as a PE and science teacher along with his football coaching duties. Nusser is a St. John graduate with experience teaching in Stafford and Plainville.

St. John Tigers announce new basketball and football coaches

Sat 5/306:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back - 2015 World Series - Game 2Sun 5/3112:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back - 2015 World Series - Game 3Tue 6/27:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back – Royals vs Chicago White Sox 2015Thu 6/47:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back – Royals vs Minnesota Twins 2015Sat 6/66:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back - Royals vs Detroit Tigers 2015Sun 6/712:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back - Royals vs Baltimore Orioles 2015Tue 6/97:00PM 1590KVGB/95.5FM – Royals Play Back – Royals vs Seattle Mariners 2015

Eagle Radio and Hull Broadcasting PBP Schedule

UNDATED (AP) — For a lot of minor league umpires, this is shaping up as a rough year. More and more, it's looking as if there won't be any minor league season because of the coronavirus pandemic. That means no income right now for the 236 umps who work everywhere from Triple-A ball down to the rookie leagues. And with no games, they're left without a significant way to improve their craft. That could force some of them to make their toughest call. Either wait until next spring to continue a career of umpiring or leave baseball and find another line of work.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have moved -- not actually, but legally. The Royals changed their legal home from Missouri to Delaware last fall during the process of the team’s sale from David Glass to a group headed by John Sherman. The switch was mentioned in court papers in a suit by minor leaguers against Major League Baseball. Kansas City Royals Baseball Corp., a Missouri corporation, became Kansas City Royals Baseball Club Inc., a Delaware corporation, on Nov 19. That corporation became Kansas City Royals Baseball Club LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Two-time NCAA all-around champion gymnast Maggie Nichols and Heisman Trophy runner-up Jalen Hurts are the Big 12 Athletes of the Year. That gives Oklahoma a sweep of the conference’s top individual awards for the third time in five years. It was the second time for Nichols to be honored as the Big 12′s top female athlete. Nichols also became “Athlete A” when she dropped her anonymity in 2018 to help others who were abused by former U.S. team doctor Larry Nassar speak up. Nichols competed at the elite level for USA gymnastics before arriving at Oklahoma in the fall of 2016 and winning 11 NCAA trophies. 

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Former Georgetown guard Mac McClung has signed with Texas Tech following junior Davide Moretti's departure from the Red Raiders to play professionally at home in Italy. McClung had put his name in the transfer portal after removing it from consideration from the NBA draft. He has two seasons of college eligibility remaining after leading the Hoyas with 15.7 points a game this past season. He played in only 21 of Georgetown’s 32 games because of a right foot injury. 

CONCORD, N.C. (AP) — Chase Elliott reeled in Kevin Harvick with 27 laps remaining and closed out the win at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Thursday night. Elliott was charging hard on Harvick with about 35 laps remaining when he asked if he had enough fuel to make it to the finish. He stayed on the track and came away with his first Cup win of the season. Elliott shook off a pair of tough losses to finish about 2.2 seconds ahead of runner-up Denny Hamlin.

UNDATED (AP) — Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam says racing will be allowed to resume in the state without spectators. The governor says NASCAR will race at Martinsville Speedway on June 10, and that other forms of auto racing and horse racing also are cleared to resume. NASCAR was originally scheduled to make its first of two stops at Martinsville in early May, but the event was postponed because of the outbreak.

RENTON, Wash. (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks have added another option at running back by signing veteran Carlos Hyde to a one-year. Hyde is coming off the best season of his career after rushing for 1,070 yards and six touchdowns with Houston. It was his first 1,000-yard NFL campaign. Hyde’s addition is a significant move after leading rusher Chris Carson suffered a significant hip injury late last season. Coach Pete Carroll has indicated Carson should be healthy for the season.

CHARLOTTE, (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with free agent cornerback Eli Apple after losing free agent James Bradberry to the Giants. Apple has started 48 games during four NFL seasons but has never lived up to the billing of being the 10th overall selection in the 2016 draft out of Ohio State. He recorded 58 tackles and one forced fumble while starting 15 games for the Saints last season.

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. Education Department's Office for Civil Rights has found a Connecticut policy that allows transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports is illegal. The office says the policy violates Title IX, the federal civil rights law guarantees equal education opportunities for women, including in athletics. The ruling comes in response to a complaint filed last year by several female track athletes, who argued that two transgender runners who were identified as male at birth had an unfair physical advantage. The dispute also is the subject of a federal lawsuit.

UNDATED (AP) — For a lot of minor league umpires, this is shaping up as a rough year. More and more, it's looking as if there won't be any minor league season because of the coronavirus pandemic. That means no income right now for the 236 umps who work everywhere from Triple-A ball down to the rookie leagues. And with no games, they're left without a significant way to improve their craft. That could force some of them to make their toughest call. Either wait until next spring to continue a career of umpiring or leave baseball and find another line of work.SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have moved -- not actually, but legally. The Royals changed their legal home from Missouri to Delaware last fall during the process of the team’s sale from David Glass to a group headed by John Sherman. The switch was mentioned in court papers in a suit by minor leaguers against Major League Baseball. Kansas City Royals Baseball Corp., a Missouri corporation, became Kansas City Royals Baseball Club Inc., a Delaware corporation, on Nov 19. That corporation became Kansas City Royals Baseball Club LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.IRVING, Texas (AP) — Two-time NCAA all-around champion gymnast Maggie Nichols and Heisman Trophy runner-up Jalen Hurts are the Big 12 Athletes of the Year. That gives Oklahoma a sweep of the conference’s top individual awards for the third time in five years. It was the second time for Nichols to be honored as the Big 12′s top female athlete. Nichols also became “Athlete A” when she dropped her anonymity in 2018 to help others who were abused by former U.S. team doctor Larry Nassar speak up. Nichols competed at the elite level for USA gymnastics before arriving at Oklahoma in the fall of 2016 and winning 11 NCAA trophies. LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Former Georgetown guard Mac McClung has signed with Texas Tech following junior Davide Moretti's departure from the Red Raiders to play professionally at home in Italy. McClung had put his name in the transfer portal after removing it from consideration from the NBA draft. He has two seasons of college eligibility remaining after leading the Hoyas with 15.7 points a game this past season. He played in only 21 of Georgetown’s 32 games because of a right foot injury. CONCORD, N.C. (AP) — Chase Elliott reeled in Kevin Harvick with 27 laps remaining and closed out the win at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Thursday night. Elliott was charging hard on Harvick with about 35 laps remaining when he asked if he had enough fuel to make it to the finish. He stayed on the track and came away with his first Cup win of the season. Elliott shook off a pair of tough losses to finish about 2.2 seconds ahead of runner-up Denny Hamlin.UNDATED (AP) — Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam says racing will be allowed to resume in the state without spectators. The governor says NASCAR will race at Martinsville Speedway on June 10, and that other forms of auto racing and horse racing also are cleared to resume. NASCAR was originally scheduled to make its first of two stops at Martinsville in early May, but the event was postponed because of the outbreak.RENTON, Wash. (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks have added another option at running back by signing veteran Carlos Hyde to a one-year. Hyde is coming off the best season of his career after rushing for 1,070 yards and six touchdowns with Houston. It was his first 1,000-yard NFL campaign. Hyde’s addition is a significant move after leading rusher Chris Carson suffered a significant hip injury late last season. Coach Pete Carroll has indicated Carson should be healthy for the season.CHARLOTTE, (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with free agent cornerback Eli Apple after losing free agent James Bradberry to the Giants. Apple has started 48 games during four NFL seasons but has never lived up to the billing of being the 10th overall selection in the 2016 draft out of Ohio State. He recorded 58 tackles and one forced fumble while starting 15 games for the Saints last season.HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. Education Department's Office for Civil Rights has found a Connecticut policy that allows transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports is illegal. The office says the policy violates Title IX, the federal civil rights law guarantees equal education opportunities for women, including in athletics. The ruling comes in response to a complaint filed last year by several female track athletes, who argued that two transgender runners who were identified as male at birth had an unfair physical advantage. The dispute also is the subject of a federal lawsuit.

Friday Sports Headlines

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have moved -- not actually, but legally.

The Royals changed their legal home from Missouri to Delaware last fall during the process of the team’s sale from David Glass to a group headed by John Sherman. The switch was mentioned Monday in a filing with the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals by Major League Baseball’s law firm in its defense of a lawsuit by minor leaguers claiming they are not being paid minimum wage.

Kansas City Royals Baseball Corp., a Missouri corporation, had been a defendant in the suit, which was filed in 2014. That company filed a certificate of conversion with the Missouri secretary of state on Nov. 19 to convert to Kansas City Royals Baseball Club Inc., a Delaware corporation. Then the newly named corporation converted to Kansas City Royals Baseball Club LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

Sherman’s group acquired 100% of Kansas City Royals Baseball Club LLC on Nov. 25, a deal thought to be valued at $1 billion. The LLC becomes a defendant in the suit.

An unopposed motion to substitute parties was filed by Proskauer Rose.

Many entities maintain a legal base in Delaware. The Royals have a Class A minor league team in Wilmington

“Corporate laws are much more universal in Delaware,” Royals spokesman Mike Swanson said.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have moved -- not actually, but legally.The Royals changed their legal home from Missouri to Delaware last fall during the process of the team’s sale from David Glass to a group headed by John Sherman. The switch was mentioned Monday in a filing with the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals by Major League Baseball’s law firm in its defense of a lawsuit by minor leaguers claiming they are not being paid minimum wage.Kansas City Royals Baseball Corp., a Missouri corporation, had been a defendant in the suit, which was filed in 2014. That company filed a certificate of conversion with the Missouri secretary of state on Nov. 19 to convert to Kansas City Royals Baseball Club Inc., a Delaware corporation. Then the newly named corporation converted to Kansas City Royals Baseball Club LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.Sherman’s group acquired 100% of Kansas City Royals Baseball Club LLC on Nov. 25, a deal thought to be valued at $1 billion. The LLC becomes a defendant in the suit.An unopposed motion to substitute parties was filed by Proskauer Rose.Many entities maintain a legal base in Delaware. The Royals have a Class A minor league team in Wilmington“Corporate laws are much more universal in Delaware,” Royals spokesman Mike Swanson said.

Not in Missouri anymore: Royals move legal home to Delaware

Panther Playback - 1982 Panther Football vs Garden City

TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) —&nbsp;Several hundred protesters rallied at the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Statehouse on Saturday to protest George Floyd's death in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/minnesota">Minnesota</a>&nbsp;with T-shirts and chants that recalled the 2017 case of a black man fatally shot by two white police officers in Topeka.

Organizers promised a peaceful protest and opened with prayer. The racially diverse crowd included children and older adults and held signs with slogans such as “I Can't Breathe" and “Stop Lynching Us.”

Floyd's death in Minneapolis sparked looting there and protests across the United States. Floyd, who'd been handcuffed, died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, pressed his knee into Floyd's neck for several minutes even after he stopped moving and pleading for air. Chauvin now faces murder and manslaughter charges.

Some protesters wore T-shirts saying, “Justice 4 Dominique White.” He was a 30-year-old Topeka resident fatally shot in September 2017 while running away from the two officers who'd stopped him to question him about shots being fired near a park. White had a gun in a pocket, and the local district attorney declared the officers' use of force justified, but White's family said video of the incident showed he wasn't a threat.

“Say his name! Dominique White!” the crowd chanted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590865128720.png" alt="Protest Rally at the Kansas Statehouse Saturday photo courtesy Steve Hageman, Black Lives Matter" />
 <figcaption>Protest Rally at the Kansas Statehouse Saturday photo courtesy Steve Hageman, Black Lives Matter</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) —&nbsp;Several hundred protesters rallied at the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Statehouse on Saturday to protest George Floyd's death in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/minnesota">Minnesota</a>&nbsp;with T-shirts and chants that recalled the 2017 case of a black man fatally shot by two white police officers in Topeka.Organizers promised a peaceful protest and opened with prayer. The racially diverse crowd included children and older adults and held signs with slogans such as “I Can't Breathe" and “Stop Lynching Us.”Floyd's death in Minneapolis sparked looting there and protests across the United States. Floyd, who'd been handcuffed, died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, pressed his knee into Floyd's neck for several minutes even after he stopped moving and pleading for air. Chauvin now faces murder and manslaughter charges.Some protesters wore T-shirts saying, “Justice 4 Dominique White.” He was a 30-year-old Topeka resident fatally shot in September 2017 while running away from the two officers who'd stopped him to question him about shots being fired near a park. White had a gun in a pocket, and the local district attorney declared the officers' use of force justified, but White's family said video of the incident showed he wasn't a threat.“Say his name! Dominique White!” the crowd chanted.

Kansas rally over George Floyd's death recalls Topeka case

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 4:30a.m. Thursday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to an alarm at a building in the 6300 block of NW 17th Street, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson. 

At the scene, a deputy found evidence of forced entry and heard movement inside. 

The deputy located and arrested the suspect identified as&nbsp; Danny W. De La O, 27, of Topeka. He faces requested&nbsp;charges of burglary, theft and criminal damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590765591405.png" alt="De La O photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>De La O photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have a suspect in custody.Just before 4:30a.m. Thursday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to an alarm at a building in the 6300 block of NW 17th Street, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson. At the scene, a deputy found evidence of forced entry and heard movement inside. The deputy located and arrested the suspect identified as&nbsp; Danny W. De La O, 27, of Topeka. He faces requested&nbsp;charges of burglary, theft and criminal damage to property.

Kansas deputy finds suspect at scene of business burglary 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 7-year-old boy and and his 6-year-old brother died in an unincorporated area east of Kansas City Friday when the older brother got access to a car and drove it, eventually losing control and driving off the road.

Sgt. Andy Bell, spokesman for the Missouri Highway Patrol, said the boys left a residence in the car, drove through a field and then onto a county road. The patrol's report on the crash says the 2007 Buick Lacross became airborne more than once before eventually landing on its roof and catching fire. The boys were pronounced dead at the scene about 4:20 p.m. Friday.

The Highway Patrol and Jackson County Sheriff's Department are investigating. Bell said the sheriff's office was looking into how the boys came to have possession of the car. A sheriff's department spokesman didn't immediately return a call for comment.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 7-year-old boy and and his 6-year-old brother died in an unincorporated area east of Kansas City Friday when the older brother got access to a car and drove it, eventually losing control and driving off the road.Sgt. Andy Bell, spokesman for the Missouri Highway Patrol, said the boys left a residence in the car, drove through a field and then onto a county road. The patrol's report on the crash says the 2007 Buick Lacross became airborne more than once before eventually landing on its roof and catching fire. The boys were pronounced dead at the scene about 4:20 p.m. Friday.The Highway Patrol and Jackson County Sheriff's Department are investigating. Bell said the sheriff's office was looking into how the boys came to have possession of the car. A sheriff's department spokesman didn't immediately return a call for comment.

7-year-old driver, younger brother die in KC crash

Image from Snap Chat of Memorial Day Weekend pool party

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. (AP) — Health officials said Friday that they were seeking to “inform mass numbers of unknown people” after a person who attended crowded pool parties over Memorial Day weekend at Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks tested positive for COVID-19.

Camden County Health Department said in a release that the resident of Boone County in mid-Missouri tested positive on Sunday after arriving at the lake area a day earlier. Officials said there have been no reported cases of the virus linked to coronavirus in residents of Camden County, where the parties seen in videos and photos posted on social media took place.

Because “mass numbers of unknown people” need to be notified, the officials released a brief timeline of the person's whereabouts last weekend, including stops at a bar called Backwater Jacks, a bar and restaurant that has a pool, as well as a dining and pool venue called Shady Gators and Lazy Gators.

Backwater Jacks owner Gary Prewitt said previously in a statement that no laws were broken, though the images appeared to show people violating Republican Gov. Mike Parson’s state order requiring social distancing.

Parson allowed businesses and attractions to reopen May 4, but the state order requires 6-foot social distancing through at least the end of May.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590412088066.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Image from Snap Chat of Memorial Day Weekend pool partyOSAGE BEACH, Mo. (AP) — Health officials said Friday that they were seeking to “inform mass numbers of unknown people” after a person who attended crowded pool parties over Memorial Day weekend at Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks tested positive for COVID-19.Camden County Health Department said in a release that the resident of Boone County in mid-Missouri tested positive on Sunday after arriving at the lake area a day earlier. Officials said there have been no reported cases of the virus linked to coronavirus in residents of Camden County, where the parties seen in videos and photos posted on social media took place.Because “mass numbers of unknown people” need to be notified, the officials released a brief timeline of the person's whereabouts last weekend, including stops at a bar called Backwater Jacks, a bar and restaurant that has a pool, as well as a dining and pool venue called Shady Gators and Lazy Gators.Backwater Jacks owner Gary Prewitt said previously in a statement that no laws were broken, though the images appeared to show people violating Republican Gov. Mike Parson’s state order requiring social distancing.Parson allowed businesses and attractions to reopen May 4, but the state order requires 6-foot social distancing through at least the end of May.

Partygoer at Lake of Ozarks positive for COVID-19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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