COLUMBIA, S.C. — A group of students from a Columbia high school who clustered together, often without masks, during a week-long Grand Strand beach trip in early June returned to the capital city with COVID-19 infections, multiple sources told The State newspaper.

BIDEN EXTENDS WISCONSIN LEAD TO 8 POINTS ON EVE OF TRUMP VISIT

Progress is being made on the future location for O’Reilly Auto Parts. Brett Simmons, project manager with Springfield Builders, Inc., said the three existing structures are gone and crews will begin the process for the construction of the new 7,000 square foot building.

The American Legion Auxiliary, Independence, met June 9 at the post home with Windy Adams calling the meeting to order. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence was held for fallen troop members.

Wednesday evening dark smoke was seen billowing from about a half mile east of Independence city limits and many curious residents ventured in that direction, only to be turned away by emergency crews fighting flames from a SKOL railroad trestle bridge engulfed in dark, thick flames. Crews from all around assisted the Montgomery County Rural Fire Department, including CVR Resources out of Coffeyville and the Cherryvale Fire Department.

NEODESHA — Ever since schools were closed down at the end of March, people around Neodesha have been wondering if and when the Neodesha High School seniors would make the famous walk every other senior has made to receive their high school diploma. In recent news, USD 461, Neodesha, released information regarding the graduation ceremony.

COVID-19 has affected nearly every person on the planet. Locally, it has had a devastating impact on small businesses. According to Governor Laura Kelly’s executive order, barbers, hairdressers and beauticians were among those not considered essential workers and had to be closed for nearly three months. This has taken a toll on those operating small local shops.

SNOW CONES AND YEARBOOKS — Lauren Blackard accepts a snow cone from Haley Dunn as her mother, Minday, looks on. Cindy Beshears, top, assisted with making the sweet, cold treat while Cheri Jefferson waited to give Lauren her yearbook and class photo Wednesday afternoon. Jefferson School staff took the time to distribute yearbooks and hand out free snow cones to students. Taina Copeland