The space shuttle Challenger soared spectacularly into orbit with a record crew of seven on an Earth-surveying mission that was to include the first space walk by an American woman, Kathy Sullivan. Sally Ride also was on the crew.

Kansas University political and debate experts predicted a lively verbal confrontation between President Ronald Reagan and Democratic challenger Walter Mondale. KU debate experts Donn Parson and Karlyn Kohrs Campbell were to be among the analysts.

City commissioners sought and got assurance from prospective owners of Kansas Public Service that local natural gas customers would be protected and treated fairly after the local utility was sold to Missouri Public Service Co. of Raytown, Mo. Involved was a strock transfer of about $4.7 million.

The chamber of commerce board voted to support the development of a downtown shopping mall and to oppose plans for a recently proposed “cornfield mall” south of town. The chamber supported Town Center Venture Corp., the chosen developer of record for the retail development.