SALINA —Just after 9a.m. Monday, Salina 9-1-1 received calls from Salina South High School staff advising a possible person with a firearm was at South High School, 730 E Magnolia, according to a media release from police.

The school immediately locked down, and the SHS School Resource Officer, who was already on scene began a coordinated response. Numerous Officers and Detectives from the Salina Police Department responded, as did law enforcement officials from the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Highway Patrol. The first Officers arrived at 9:15 AM and immediately began searching the school.

Simultaneously, officers began interviewing witnesses, staff, and reviewing surveillance video from the school. While on scene, Officers were made aware of a post by a student which showed the student with a gun, there were no threats attached to the picture.

 It was determined the post was made on April 3rd, 2025, and the photo was not taken at the school as is being reported on social media. This post was then shared with other students in a chat group. A student using a restroom on this date then heard a sound which they thought could possibly be a gun being “racked” and reported it to staff believing it was the student who made the post. 

It was determined from surveillance video, the student who made the post had not been in the restroom. The student who was observed leaving the restroom at the time was located and checked. This student indicated the sound was from him crushing a water bottle. The post made by the student is being investigated.

The investigation determined there was no firearm present or active threats.

The building clearing was completed at 10:12a.m. , and the school was released to the School Administration.

The Salina Police Department noted that parents responded and congregated in the parking lots, remaining calm and supportive. The staff and students secured themselves in the classrooms in which they were located, controlling their environments and allowing law enforcement to move swiftly to clear the enormous structure unobstructed. We applaud the staff, students, and parents for their conduct.

SALINA —On Monday morning, South High School administration received a report of a gun in the building, according to a media release from USD 305. 

The school immediately went into lockdown and alerted law enforcement. Salina Police, the Saline County Sheriff's Office, Kansas Highway Patrol and Salina Fire and Rescue responded and searched the building.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Law enforcement determined that the school is secure and that there was no weapon and that no shots were fired.

The police turned the building back over to administration. The South High School administration will determine any adjustments to the schedule that are needed.&nbsp; The school day will resume as usual.

"We appreciate the quick response from the Salina Police Department and first responders. They have determined that there was no danger."

The was a large number of parents and others on the west edge of Jerry Ivey Park waiting to get information about what was happening in the school. The street between the park and school grounds was shut down to traffic, as was a portion of Magnolia Road in front of the High School.

Check the Post for more details as they become available.

SALINA— Law enforcement are on the scene of an incident at South High School,&nbsp;730 E Magnolia Road, Salina.&nbsp; There are unconfirmed reports the incident involved a gun. The school was on lock down status 

“Police were alerted and are on site at this time and are in charge of the situation. Students and staff remain locked in classrooms," according to a message sent to parents.

USD 305 is expected to release more information as it becomes available.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police have not released details on their investigation.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Police update details on investigation at South High School

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Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Media's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Media Salina News Director Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with fascinating stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.

Available on all your favorite platforms, including&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/king-in-the-community/id1687185014">Apple podcasts,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/">Podbean</a>,<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZeCj4TK3kaOZEvgQaDlio">&nbsp;Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c78f2e2e-c714-4aaf-ad4c-4864a4038889">Amazon Audible</a>, TuneIn + Alexa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/king-in-the-community-5324914">Podchaser,</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/62430">Boomplay</a>.&nbsp;

No matter what streaming service you use, we've got you covered with engaging discussions and insightful interviews that will help you understand the issues that matter most to you.&nbsp; So why wait? Tune in to the "King in the Community" podcast today and discover a new way to stay connected.

For a full list of episodes<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/page/2/">&nbsp;click here</a>. Thanks for listening!

🎙The latest from 'King in the Community' with Nate King

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? 

Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. 

So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.

Salina Post news tip email address

Salina Post is thrilled to announce an exciting update - we are now accepting letters to the editor from our readers. We believe that our community's voices deserve to be heard, and providing a platform for open dialogue and constructive discussions is essential to a strong free press.&nbsp;

With the new letters to the editor offering, we aim to create a space where readers can express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas on a wide range of local topics that impact their daily lives.&nbsp;

Submitting a letter to the editor is simple. Just email your letter to <a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>

Ensure that your letter is concise and respectful. We value thoughtful and constructive discussions, so please make sure to present your arguments in a clear and coherent manner.

While we appreciate and encourage diverse perspectives, we also have certain guidelines in place. Letters should be free from hate speech, name-calling or any form of discrimination. We believe in promoting a respectful and inclusive environment for all readers.

Our editorial team will review all submissions and select letters that align with our guidelines and contribute positively to the conversation. We may edit letters for clarity, grammar, and length, but we will strive to maintain the essence of your message.

We are excited about this new opportunity to amplify your voice and encourage you to take advantage of this platform.

So, whether you have a burning issue or an important message to share, we invite you to submit a letter to the editor. Let's come together, learn from each other, and build a stronger community through the power of words.

All letters must include the author's name. No anonymous letters to the editor will be published, but if you have a news tip or an issue you would like us to know about still reach out via email at newstips@salinapost.com

<a href="https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-editor/main">Information Courtesy University of Kansas Community Toolbox</a>

You feel strongly about an issue, and you want to let people know what you think. You believe you can even influence people to take some action if you speak your mind. But, you want to reach an audience larger than just your friends or your group membership. Letters to the editor can be an effective way to get the word out.

A letter to the editor is a written way of talking to a newspaper, magazine, or other regularly printed publication. Letters to the editor are generally found in the first section of the newspaper, or towards the beginning of a magazine, or in the editorial page. They can take a position for or against an issue, or simply inform, or both. They can convince readers by using emotions, or facts, or emotions and facts combined. 

Letters to the editor are usually short and tight, rarely longer than 300 words.

Using a few carefully placed letters, you can generate plenty of community discussion. You can also keep an issue going by preventing it from disappearing from the public eye. You can stimulate the interest of the news media and create more coverage for the matters you're working on. You can also send a "good news" letter to bring recognition to people who deserve it or acknowledge the success of an effort.

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

The Salina League of Women Voters held its 2024 General Election Forum on Oct. 20 at 1:30 in the Watson Room at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. 

Click the link above to watch the candidates answer questions from the media and the public. Candidates present at the forum included Senate District 24-John Baker, House District 69-Lori Blake, and Clarke Sanders; Saline County Commission District 2-Annie Grevas and Kathleen Malone Crouch.

Noticeably absent from the forum was State Senator J.R. Claeys, whose empty chair and name card can be seen on the far left of the table of candidates.&nbsp;

Check Salina Post for an article about the candidate's responses on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

Due to damages from Sunday's severe weather, the bridge and road south of Wilson, Kansas will NOT be open by Memorial Day, May 27.&nbsp;

According to the Ellsworth County Highway Department, a date has not been set for the road/bridge to reopen.&nbsp;

Plan an alternate route if you plan to travel in the area.&nbsp;

READ MORE<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">:&nbsp;🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

Cope Notes is a text message-based service that provides individuals with randomly timed messages that contain anything from psychology facts to exercises and journaling prompts. Every subscriber’s text sequence is unique so that no two users ever receive the same message at the same time. 

Each <a href="https://copenotes.com/">Cope Notes</a> text must first undergo a thorough review process by a panel of peer-support advocates and mental health professionals, in order to ensure that the messages will have a positive effect on the subscriber’s health. The ultimate goal of the service is to train the brain to disrupt negative thoughts and promote a more positive pattern of thinking.

"We believe in the importance of mental health. We want to ensure our residents have access to the resources they need to stay healthy and thriving," said Saline County Health Officer Jason Tiller. "In my own personal experience with Cope Notes, I have found that the right messages seem to come at exactly the right time. It was been an uplifting experience for me, and I am thrilled we get to continue this service to our residents."

In 2022, Saline County initially offered the service for free to 300 residents. Because of the overwhelming response and in an effort to provide the service to more Saline County residents, the program is being offered at a 50 percent discount, according to information from the county.

To sign up for Cope Notes, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001scLNLAEK27GI7j38iOkmbBLY7glKLN0Wy6uF_d-8TLam2TPUzrfQlc9LS5oNICbDRUIbIxFeAe9F9t_3cBzqfldl0v4T9wLfMfxV5qLVYcHiyw0WBSsZFYJWzG17ByUTXv2fd3MbRsZWmxNokDZI85TAvv_DybpQ8u3RGpTS-VoOBpVKw3mIuQf0KEWbdEz2&amp;c=e8h8gccDrdCcdY1GLzjAyWQ83iic1YREdFKlJQ0cHZXKLBBGRtWzSA==&amp;ch=qH131SvBWUOQqWkIzjrjNennoWrg5mcmyLAePutxO-lGfSWshstgHw==" target="_blank">this link&nbsp;</a>and enter code&nbsp;SACOHALF&nbsp;and your credit or debit card information.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Saline County continues to offer Cope Notes at 50-percent discount

Not seeing precipitation totals from your area after a rain or snow event? Consider becoming a CoCoRaHS volunteer.

"CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications," the organization noted on its website.

After rain, hail, or snow storms, CoCoRaHS volunteers take precipitation measurements. Those totals are then recorded on the CoCoRaHS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/StateDailyPrecipReports.aspx?state=KS">website</a>&nbsp;(Kansas reporting).

The precipitation totals are used by various organizations and individuals, including the National Weather Service, other meteorologists, hydrologists, emergency managers, insurance adjusters, farmers and ranchers, and, of course, Salina Post.

For more information about CoCoRaHS and its March recruiting efforts or to sign up as a CoCoRaHS volunteer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/marchmadness.aspx">click here</a>.

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

By ROSARIO MENDEZ Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC

What’s worse than a bogus charity? A bogus charity with a dishonest fundraiser. The FTC has sued and stopped dishonest charity fundraisers that&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/spot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers">called people</a>&nbsp;to get them to donate to fake charities. Some prey on your kindness and desire to help people impacted by weather emergencies or a disaster. But when you get a call from a charity fundraiser, how do you know the caller is telling you the truth?

Ask the caller specific questions.

What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities.

How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?

Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more questions to ask here.

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

After you’ve listened to the caller, hang up the phone and think about what they said. Then, go online and do your own research:

Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.

Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you.

See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, and Candid.

If you get a donation request in the mail, do some research online before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

If you get a donation request in the mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/charity">do some research online</a>&nbsp;before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/www.reportfraud.ftc.gov">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services, there are programs to help you stay connected.

During Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in encouraging those in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program.&nbsp; Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access health care, attend classes, find employment, and call for help in an emergency.

Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. Seven million Americans currently benefit from the program, including approximately 30,000 Kansans.

The Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Plan&nbsp; provides a monthly internet service discount of up to $30 and a one-time device discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet. According to FCC data, more than 20 million U.S. households are currently enrolled, including approximately 120,000 in Kansas.

Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline and at or below 200% for Affordable Connectivity Plan)&nbsp;or participation in certain assistance programs&nbsp;such as:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) •&nbsp; Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) •&nbsp; Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA) •&nbsp; Veterans Pensions &amp; Survivors Pension Benefit •&nbsp; Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance •&nbsp; Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families •&nbsp; Head Start Tribal Programs (income based) •&nbsp; Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in Affordable Connectivity Plan. Others may still qualify for the plan if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Are approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including the&nbsp;USDA Community Eligibility Provision.&nbsp; • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.&nbsp; • Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.&nbsp;

Due to higher income maximums, Affordable Connectivity Plan  also has the potential to help families that may not qualify for other types of assistance. The maximum income for a family of four to qualify for the&nbsp; program is&nbsp;$60,000 per year compared to $40,500 for Lifeline. Both Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Plan offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.

More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTEuODIzOTEwMjEifQ.SgutPMf7jc8B89ZmFqxVxA5ZBkjKYdszBMiWwbYC7oo/s/1510803030/br/225606126077-l" target="_blank">KCC’s website</a>.

Plans available to help Kansans unable to pay for phone, internet services stay connected

SALINA —A wanted Kansas felon is back in jail after running from a traffic stop in Salina.

Just before 11a.m. Sunday, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Ford Focus, in the 1600 block of S. 9th, due to an expired tag. The driver, later identified as 29-year-old&nbsp; Malachi Lageman of Salina, gave the officer with a false name. As the officer was checking the name, Lageman drove off. 

A vehicle pursuit was initiated. Speeds reached 70 miles per hour and went to the area of Sheridan and West Crawford where the Lageman abandoned the vehicle and ran.

Lageman was observed running in the 600 block of S. Phillips where officers were able to take him into custody.

Prior to being arrested, in an attempt to hide from officers, Lageman hid in a garage in the 600 of S. Phillips. It was later determined Lageman had taken the vehicle without permission from someone he knew who lived in the 700 block of S. 9th Street. The vehicle was valued at $3000. 

Police also found a&nbsp; handgun in the vehicle Lageman abandoned.

 Lageman is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Flee/Attempt to Elude, Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Interference with Law Enforcement, Felony Theft, Burglary (for hiding in the garage). Lageman also had an active warrant for Domestic Battery, Theft, Possession of Stolen Property (Firearm), and possession of an opiate.

Lageman has previous convictions that include theft, burglary, criminal threat, aggravated battery, criminal damage to property and domestic battery, according to the Kansas&nbsp; Department of Corrections.

Wanted Kansas felon jailed after running from traffic stop

SALINA—On Friday,&nbsp;an employee at L&amp;S Scott, 511 N. Santa Fe in Salina reported a box truck on the property had been entered sometime between March 25 and April 25, according to a media release from Salina Police.

Three American Bass Amplifiers, Four Kicker speakers, and an Auto Tech Bass were stolen from the vehicle. Total loss was valued at $7300.

Police: Amplifiers, speakers stolen from truck in Salina

SALINE COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol shared a story of appreciation for their effort to go above and beyond the call of duty.

"Every now and then, we receive a message that reminds us why we do what we do. On Sunday, we received the following from a family traveling across Kansas:"

“Trooper Van Buren helped us out today on I-70, about ten miles west of Salina. Our donut tire was funky, so he drove my husband to Walmart to have our new tire mounted — and when they got back, he put it on for us."

”This photo was taken during that moment," The KHP wrote.&nbsp; "We’re proud of Trooper Van Buren and all our troopers who go the extra mile to help others every day. Thank you to the traveling public for trusting us to be there when you need a hand."

KHP shares a story of gratitude: You Troopers are angels

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant and&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Flee or attempt to elude; reckless driving, Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant, Crim poss weapon by a convicted felon, Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000, Burglary; Non-dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Criminal use of weap;poss firearm w/restraining order, Domestic Battery: rude physical contact, Crim poss weap by felon; firearm not used in crime, Poss of stolen prop;Firearm &lt;$25,000 and Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 28

Rolling Hills Zoo proudly hosted a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. on April 26th for the new Drawings by Trent Family Room in honor of Trent Landreth. The event took place just south of the Overlook Restaurant, in the basement of Safari Station. Following the ribbon cutting, guests were able to meet Trent and attend a book signing in the Wildlife Museum lobby.

The Drawings by Trent Family Room is a thoughtfully designed space that prioritizes care and inclusivity. This quiet, sensory-friendly room offers a peaceful retreat for individuals and families who may experience sensory overload, providing a controlled environment to decompress and relax. In addition, the room will serve as a private lactation space for mothers who are breastfeeding or pumping.

Named in honor of Trent Landreth, the gifted artist behind Drawings by Trent, the Family Room features his remarkable animal artwork, creating a calming and welcoming atmosphere.

Trent, born in 1997 and diagnosed with classic autism at the age of two, discovered his passion for drawing as soon as he could hold a pen. Despite facing communication challenges, Trent expresses himself through his extraordinary animal illustrations. Because he does not part with his original drawings, a limited number of prints have been made available, allowing others to enjoy his unique and captivating art.

Drawings by Trent is dedicated to encourage families to help their children reach their full potential, educating communities on the value of individuals of all abilities, and inspiring everyone to recognize and utilize their own talents. By supporting Trent’s artwork, individuals not only celebrate his talent but also provide hope to families with similar experiences.

The Rolling Hills Zoo is honored to partner with Drawings by Trent to bring this meaningful space to life, reinforcing the zoo’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors.

Rolling Hills Zoo celebrates opening of the  drawings by Trent Family Room

Beginning Tuesday, April 29, the City of Salina Public Works Department will be replacing a section of roadway on Edison Place near Ohio Street. During this time, the access to Edison Place as well as one lane of south bound traffic on Ohio Street will be closed during repairs. Any traffic needing access to Edison Place will be detoured via Westchester Drive.

Weather permitting, repairs are expected to be completed within two to three days.

Edison Place and Ohio Street pavement repair

HARVEY COUNTY —Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall is enjoying time away from Washington. On social media, he reported he stopped at Stinger Inc.,&nbsp;302 Dean Street in Burrton on Thursday.

Marshall wrote, "Thanks to the good folks at Stinger Inc. in Burrton for letting me drive their famous “Lamborghini of farming machines,” which takes hauling hay to the next level. She’s high-class machinery!"

The U.S. Senate returns to work at 3p.m. EDT on Monday.

Kan. U.S. Senator visits farm equipment manufacturer

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Uebelher, Christopher Joseph

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of hallucinogenic drug; 1 prior conviction

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Anguish, Brandon Alan

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Aggravated burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K, Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warran and Breach of privacy;install concealed camcorder

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 27

K-STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICE

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Adding lamb to the shopping list could liven up Spring meals, says Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee.

She notes that in many countries, lamb (a young sheep) is the major source of protein. In the United States, many think of lamb as a springtime food, but it can be enjoyed year-round.

Sheep are the oldest domesticated meat species, having been raised by humans beginning about 9,000 years ago in the Middle East.

“When shopping for lamb, look for meat that is fine textured and firm that has red coloring and white marbling,” Blakeslee said. Marbling is white flecks of intramuscular fat within the meat muscle.

The fat trim should be firm, white, and not too thick, she said. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards/lamb-grades-and-standards">USDA quality grades</a>&nbsp;are reliable guides.

There are five basic major (primal) cuts into which the lamb carcass is separated: shoulder, rack, shank/breast, loin, and leg.

“Packages of fresh lamb purchased in the supermarket will be labeled with the primal cut as well as the product, such as shoulder roast or loin chop,” Blakeslee said.

For more information on different cuts of lamb and how to cook lamb meat safely, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat-catfish/lamb-farm-table">USDA Lamb from Farm to Table.</a>

&nbsp; More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Food scientist suggests adding lamb to spring meals 

By CHELSI MEDVED <a href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/news/2025/04/07/kccto-partners-with-kansas-state-universitys-division-of-it-in-developing-statewide-directory-for-kansass-early-child-care-and-education-system/">K-State News Service</a>

MANHATTAN — Thanks to a partnership between&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kccto.org/">Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/it/">Division of Information Technology</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, early childhood professionals in Kansas will have access to a new statewide directory and professional empowerment portal.

The Division of Information Technology provided Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, or KCCTO — a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/earlychildhood/professionaleducation.html">K-State-sponsored project</a>&nbsp;that provides professional development and technical assistance to early childhood professionals across Kansas — with essential expertise and support in developing internal data systems to build the framework of a statewide early childhood workforce and training management system.

This collaboration has led to the development and launch of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.yourcape.org/">Career Advancement and Professional Empowerment, or Cape</a>, which will equip early childhood professionals with a powerful tool for tracking and managing their professional development throughout their careers.

"From the initial design to the near-completion of Cape, the K-State Division of IT has been a cornerstone of this project," said Patty Peschel, executive director of KCCTO. "Their technical expertise, problem-solving skills and tireless dedication to our mission made it possible to achieve something extraordinary in less than one year. Without them, this milestone would not have been within reach.

"Key features of Cape include personalized profiles, statewide tools and resources, and the ability to view and manage professional growth over time, all on a single, centralized platform.

Built on the Salesforce platform, Cape is uniquely adaptable to meet the specific needs of early childhood professionals in Kansas. Its scalable and customizable design ensures that the system can address current workforce demands while evolving to meet future needs.

&nbsp;"From the start, we knew that KCCTO needed more than just a system — they needed a long-term solution that could evolve with the early childhood workforce," said Sarah Mattocks, director of enterprise systems in K-State's Division of Information Technology. "Our team worked closely with KCCTO and state stakeholders to identify partners that could help turn a conceptual vision into a functional, user-friendly platform. Seeing Cape come to life has been incredibly rewarding. It's a testament to what's possible when technology and user needs align to create a solution that has a real, lasting impact on a critical workforce."

Cape had its soft launch with KCCTO in January and is set for its official debut in May 2025. With ongoing support from K-State's Division of Information Technology, Cape is positioned to remain a dynamic and innovative resource for years to come.

In just 11 short weeks since its soft launch, Cape has already made a significant impact across Kansas, including more than 7,000 training enrollments and more than 4,000 Cape accounts created by users from 99 out of Kansas' 105 counties.

"KCCTO's commitment to outreach and engagement across all 105 Kansas counties aligns with and exemplifies the mission of our land-grant promise to drive economic prosperity for all Kansans, said Brad Behnke, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences. "This commitment to supporting early childhood professionals strengthens communities, empowers the workforce, and ensures better outcomes for children and families across the state.

"The project benefitted from the expertise, collaboration and unwavering commitment of many additional statewide partners and agencies through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.allinforkansaskids.org/">All In For Kansas Kids</a>&nbsp;collaboration, including Child Care Aware of Kansas and early childhood state agencies such as the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund, the Kansas Department for Children and Families, the Kansas State Department of Education, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which served as the state lead.

K-State partnership leads to statewide early child care and education directory

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas State men’s basketball team has been selected to play in the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic, which is set for Thursday, Nov. 20 and Friday, Nov. 21 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.

The Wildcats will be joined in the field by NCAA Tournament participants Mississippi State and New Mexico and recent College Basketball Crown winner Nebraska.

This year’s Hall of Fame Classic will mark the event’s 25th&nbsp;year of operation in Kansas City and will return to its traditional two-day, four-team bracketed format beginning on Thursday, Nov. 20 with the championship and third-place games set for Friday, Nov. 21. A complete bracket, along with ticket information, television details and game times, for the four-team tournament will be announced later.

K-State will be making its fourth appearance in the Hall of Fame Classic and the first since 2021. The Wildcats finished as the tournament runner-up in their first two visits, defeating No. 18 Gonzaga before losing to top-ranked Duke in 2010 and defeating Missouri before losing to No. 9 North Carolina in 2015. The team lost to No. 13 Arkansas and No. 14 Illinois in their most recent appearance in 2021.

Nebraska will be making its second appearance and first since 2018, while Mississippi State and New Mexico will be competing in the tournament for the first time.

K-State leads the all-time series with all three potential opponents, including 3-1 with Mississippi State, 4-2 with New Mexico and 128-94 with Nebraska. The Wildcats last met the Bulldogs in 2019, the Lobos in 2006 and Cornhuskers in 2023.

The Hall of Fame Classic was created by the Kansas City-based National Association of Basketball Classic (NABC) in 2001 as the Guardians Classic and was later known as the CBE Classic and CBE Hall of Fame Classic before being rebranded as the Hall of Fame Classic in 2017.

Last season, the Hall of Fame Classic was a single day competition with Utah State defeating Iowa, 77-69, and Wichita State defeating Saint Louis, 88-63.

More information on the Hall of Fame Classic can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://nabc.com/classic/" target="_blank">here</a>.

K-State to Play in 2025 Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City

(<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/06a96517-043e-4f49-9fd9-e3ba192a97e8?elinkdata=25839">BRACKET</a> | <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dff38548-106a-406a-b614-554e7e0251a6?elinkdata=25839">TOURNAMENT INFORMATION</a>) Kansas Conference Co-Champion Kansas Wesleyan is the No. 2 seed in the KCAC Baseball Tournament and will face No. 7 seeded Friends at 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday at Joe Becker Stadium in Joplin, Missouri in the tournament's first round.

Kansas Wesleyan earned a share of the KCAC title in 2025, marking the third straight regular season title for the Coyotes, a first in program history. The Coyotes finished with a 30-6 KCAC record, tying Oklahoma Wesleyan for the top spot in the conference standings. OKWU earned the No. 1 seed by winning the conference tiebreaker over KWU.

In the regular season series, the Coyotes swept the Falcons on February 28 and March 1.

KWU enters the tournament with a 35-13 overall record and posting a 30-6 KCAC mark, marking the first time in program history KWU has won 30-plus conference games in back-to-back seasons. KWU earned the No. 2 seed in the tournament after conference tiebreak rules were applied after KWU and Oklahoma Wesleyan tied for the KCAC Regular Season Championship.

Offensively, the Coyotes hit .302 as a team which ranks sixth in the KCAC. KWU's slugging average of .557 ranks fourth in the conference and KWU is third in the KCAC in total extra base hits, while leading the KCAC in triples with 16 and is fourth in home runs with 88. KWU ranks eighth in the NAIA in home runs.

On the mound, the Coyotes bring a KCAC best 4.79 ERA into Wednesday's game. KWU had a 1.46 WHIP (Walks + Hits per Innings Pitched), which ranks second in the KCAC. KWU ranks 21st in the NAIA in ERA and 25th in WHIP.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f9adfeef-a62f-4294-911b-1593d23da9a6?elinkdata=25839">Tyler Favretto</a> ranks third in batting average with a .423 average, which ranks No. 37 in the NAIA. He leads the KCAC and is second nationally in walks with 55. He ranks seventh in the KCAC in home runs with 14.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4e051518-4b2a-4130-a5c4-28933d36e03f?elinkdata=25839">Jacob Williamson</a> ranks sixth in the KCAC in home runs with 15, which ranks 32nd in the NAIA.

Reliever <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/55f9f23d-671f-4dcf-b57e-731f91fdfe47?elinkdata=25839">Ritter Steinmann</a> leads the KCAC with a 3.28 ERA in 49.1 innings pitched. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/18e75ab3-dd6b-4845-b389-917417eadc15?elinkdata=25839">Brett Maddock</a> is fifth with a 4.14 ERA in 87 innings. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f3fce77f-e422-420b-899f-64908f84cbc2?elinkdata=25839">Nathan Righi</a> ranks sixth I the KCAC in strikeouts with 72, while Maddock is ninth with 67.

Friends enters the KCAC Tournament with a 27-21 record overall and a 20-16 mark in the KCAC, tying for sixth with McPherson. McPherson won the tiebreaker with Friends, giving the Falcons the No. 7 seed in the tournament.

The Falcons rank fourth in the KCAC in batting average, hitting .319 as a team. Bernie Socarras ranks fifth in the KCAC in average at .417, Miles Hartman ranks second in the KCAC in walks with 37. Zeke Henson ranks 14th in the KCAC with 13 home runs.

Francisco Moscoso is fifth in the KCAC in strikeouts with 82, and ranks eighth in ERA at 4.33.

The winner of Wednesday's game will play on Thursday at 12:15 against the winner between Ottawa and McPherson. The loser will drop into an elimination game, playing at 9 a.m. on Thursday against the Ottawa vs. McPherson loser.

⚾️ KCAC Co-Champion KWU is No. 2 seed in KCAC Tournament, faces No. 7 Friends on Wednesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yordan Alvarez’s long home run backed a solid start by Hunter Brown as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 7-3 on Sunday in the series finale to avoid being swept.

Alvarez snapped Houston’s 26-inning scoreless streak, crushing Kris Bubic’s sinker 436 feet to center for a three-run homer and a 3-0 Astros lead in the third inning.

Brown (4-1), who allowed one run on seven hits and a walk with nine strikeouts over six innings, surrendered a lone hit in each of the first four innings but struck out seven while not allowing a runner past second.

Brown’s 28-inning shutout streak – fifth longest in franchise history – ended in the fifth inning on a two-out single by Jonathan India and an RBI double by Bobby Witt Jr.

Leading off the fifth, Chas McCormick doubled and scored on Jeremy Peña’s single. McCormick had three hits and scored three runs for the Astros.

Peña’s two-out, two-run double in the sixth extended Houston’s lead to 6-1. Peña collected three RBIs in his first game batting leadoff.

Yainer Diaz added a solo home run in the seventh.

Bubic (2-2) allowed four runs on five hits and three walks, striking out four in five innings.

India had a pair of singles and drove in a run while Witt extended his hitting streak to a career-best 19 games.

Isaac Paredes drew a four-pitch walk ahead of Alvarez’s three-run blast.

Alvarez, who led left-handed major leaguers with a .362 average against left-handed pitchers in 2024, hit his first homer of this season against a left-hander.

The Astros open a three-game homestand Monday against Detroit with Tigers RHP Jack Flaherty (1-2, 2.63 ERA) opposing RHP Ronel Blanco (2-2, 5.01).

Tuesday, the Royals begin a three-game series against the Rays in Tampa with Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (2-3, 3.90) against RHP Taj Bradley (2-1, 5.08).

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