An 85-year old Cedarhurst Senior Living resident in Salina, has broke the internet with his passion and engagement of teaching others on how to 'save energy, money and reducing your carbon footprint.' 

Dr. George Potts, aka "Energy Green Grandpa" is originally from Wichita, a Youtube star and educator that teaches others about the topic of 'climate change' and the conservation of money and energy in an entertaining, yet engaging way. Dr. Potts uses fun and entertaining Youtube videos, to inform homeowners on how they can save energy, money and reduce the 'carbon footprint' (total amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere from an individual).&nbsp;

Dr. Potts found his love for the biology/chemistry realm at an early age, where he spent quality time outside and interacting with nature. After he graduated high school, Potts attended Friends University (Wichita, KS) where he earned a Bachelor's in biological and chemical sciences in 1961. He then studied medicine at the University of Kansas School of Medicine until 1963. Furthermore, Potts went back to his hometown to earn a Master's in Science Education/Environmental Sciences (1970) at Wichita State University and where he also received his&nbsp;Secondary Education Certification back in 1964. After he received his teaching certification, he moved to Los Angeles where he landed his first teaching job as a biology, physics educator.

After his 3 year tenure in Los Angeles, he moved back to Wichita in 1967 where taught at Wichita North until '74 and then at Wichita South for a year. Moreover, Potts taught at&nbsp;Wichita Northeast Magnet High School from 1994-2000, after teaching at a few different Kansas universities.&nbsp;

With Potts' veteran teaching experience, he describes that this is something he has 'always wanted to do.'

"I have always enjoyed engaging with my students," said Potts. "Students learn by hands-on experiences and actively collecting and analyzing data. The best teachers are those who engage with their students."

Throughout Potts' time as an educator, he stated that he became 'concerned' of the fact that 'not many people are aware of the topic of climate change.' He described that he asked himself the question of, "how can I engage the public about informing them of climate change?"

After some time of reflection, Potts and with the help of his son Rolf Potts, thought of the idea to create a Youtube channel titled, "Energy Green Grandpa." His channel puts forth entertaining, yet helpful videos that benefit homeowners on how they can use their energy more efficiently and mitigate the amount of carbon dioxide molecules put in the earth's atmosphere.

"It seemed to me that not many people were aware of climate change," said Potts.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@EnergyGreenGrandpa-xp4zg">"Energy Green Grandpa"</a> consists of a wide range of about 5 minute long videos pertaining from, LED lightbulbs to renewable energy solutions. George handles research and scripting, while Rolf handles filming and editing.

“I love the research,” said George Potts. “It keeps me sharp and I’ve always been a reader, even as a little boy. I preferred a good book to playing outside.”

Not only does the "Energy Green Grandpa" help the public through Youtube, but he also is the program director of "Energy Green Community," which is designed for households/homeowners to become more efficient in their energy use. This program is meant to encourage homeowners to encourage others in a specific community to become "Energy Green" by applying the "22 Energy Saving Tips."

View those tips and information by clicking here:&nbsp;<a href="https://energygreengrandpa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Energy-Green-Household-1.pdf">https://energygreengrandpa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Energy-Green-Household-1.pdf</a>

According to Cedarhurst, Potts is 'showing no signs of slowing down.'&nbsp; Cedarhurst has stated that Potts 'love his space' and that he commented that its 'perfect for filming and the staff has been so supportive.' Potts has even shared his brochures and knowledge with fellow residents and sparking conversations about sustainability within the community.

For more information about Dr. George Potts or to visit the "Energy Green Grandpa" website, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://energygreengrandpa.com/">https://energygreengrandpa.com/</a>

🎥 Salina resident breaking the internet by educating others on 'climate change'

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📨 Sign up today for Salina Post's Noon News Update!

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

Beginning Wednesday, July 16, 2025, Smoky Hill Construction will continue working along Glen Avenue from Marymount Road to Beechwood Road. Pavement will be removed, existing utilities will be located, and a new water main will be installed. Eastbound Glen Avenue will be closed to traffic from Marymount Road to Beechwood Road. 

Northbound Marymount Road will be reduced to one-lane through Glen Avenue. The intersection of Glen Avenue and Aullwood Road will be closed to traffic. Access to adjacent properties will be maintained. Work is expected to last three weeks and be completed by August 6, 2025, weather permitting.

Appropriate barriers will be in place to ensure the safety of workers. Motorists may encounter minor delays and are encouraged to find alternate routes.

For additional information, please contact the City of Salina Utilities Department at (785) 309-5725.

City of Salina announces construction along Glen Avenue to Beechwood until August

In response to citizen concerns and in an effort to improve public safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, the City of Salina has implemented traffic sign changes near the Magnolia Road bridge over the Smoky Hill River.

The Magnolia Road bridge, located between Markley Road and the levee, has been identified as functionally obsolete due to its narrow width of just 24 feet from curb to curb. While there have been no reported crashes on or near the bridge in the past five years, the bridge’s limited width and vehicle speeds have prompted safety concerns from area residents.

To address these concerns, the City extended the 40 mph speed limit from the levee to east of the bridge and installed "Narrow Bridge" warning signs with a 30 mph advisory speed plaque before the bridge to alert drivers to the reduced width.

These adjustments are intended to increase driver awareness and promote safer travel through the area.

In addition to these short-term improvements, the City is also planning a significant infrastructure project for this section of Magnolia Road. 

In 2027/2028, Magnolia Road from Markley Road to the levee—including the bridge—will be widened, and a new sidewalk will be added, creating a safer and more accessible corridor for all users

Traffic sign changes implemented near Magnolia bridge over Smoky Hill River

SALINE COUNTY/GYPSUM - USD 306 Southeast of Saline has released their 2025 Summer newsletter for the public to view.

Compacted in the newsletter, you will find helpful information that includes:

Online enrollment that runs until August 2nd.

Events, camps and USD 306 contact information/directory.

List of Southeast of Saline Junior High 2024-2025 Spring Honor Roll.&nbsp;

List of Southeast of Saline High School 2024-2025 Spring Honor Roll.

Elementary School supply list for the 2025-2026 school year.

Junior High School supply list for the 2025-2026 school year.

High School&nbsp;supply list for the 2025-2026 school year.

To view the USD 306 Southeast of Saline&nbsp;2025 Summer newsletter, click <a href="https://apptegy-alerts-attachments-production.s3.amazonaws.com/c1574465-4776-408a-a5a1-75e3317e5540/Summer%202025%20Newsletter.pdf">here</a> to view the PDF file.

USD 306 releases 2025 Summer newsletter

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.

NAME:&nbsp;Eilrich, Jessica Coraleann

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Distrib. opiate/narc./stim.; 100g - &lt;1k 1000 ft sch.; Flee or attempt to elude; reckless driving

NAME:&nbsp;McMillian, Jahlen Patrick

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Peterson, Mariah Lynese

NAME:&nbsp;Stanley Townsend, Elizabeth Grace

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;VanBebber, Zachary Lynn

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Criminal use of weapons; Felony; Poss. of marijuana

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 16

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement continue to find drivers traveling far above the posted speed limit. Sometimes officers find even more.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop H, Southeast Kansas Master Trooper Bales was on his way to a training class when he stopped a car on Interstate 135 south of Salina.&nbsp; The driver was traveling 104mph. He was also accused of transporting an open container, Driving under the influence and did not have a driver's license.&nbsp;

KHP: Driver with no license stopped for 104 mph, accused of DUI

The Friends of the Salina Public Library, an organization of volunteer members that is dedicated to&nbsp;providing visible support for the Salina Public Library, will be holding a 'book sale' event this upcoming weekend.

The book sale will be held at the Salina Public Library (301 W. Elm) on the lower level,&nbsp;Saturday, July 19 from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm&nbsp;and Sunday, July 20 from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 3:00 pm.

Those attending Sunday can also purchase a book bag for $5.00.

Books, CD's, DVD's, records, cassettes, games, withdrawn library art books, old books, surprises and specially priced items will be available as well.&nbsp;

Cash or checks only for any desired purchases.

For more information about the&nbsp;Friends of the Salina Public Library, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/support/friends/">https://salinapubliclibrary.org/support/friends/</a>

Friends of Salina Public Library holding 'book sale' event July 19-20

Saline County Emergency Management

Saline County Emergency Management will be hosting a free, full-day Business Continuity Workshop designed to help business owners prepare for and recover from disaster.

From severe weather and power outages to cyber threats and insurance claims, this workshop will cover the real-world risks that can disrupt your operations—and how to build a plan to keep going.

'Lessons from the Andover Tornado,' presented by Keri Korthals, Butler County Emergency Management.

To register, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/g3fjnt4">https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/g3fjnt4</a>

Saline County to host free workshop that benefits business owners prepare and recover from natural disasters

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)&nbsp;

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can now enroll in the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (Grassland CRP). 

The sign-up runs from, July 14 - August 8, 2025.

Grassland CRP, offered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), is a voluntary working lands conservation program that enables participants to conserve grasslands while also continuing most grazing and haying practices.

Grassland CRP emphasizes support for grazing operations, plant and animal biodiversity, and grasslands and land with shrubs and forbs under the greatest threat of conversion.

“Through the conservation of America’s essential grasslands, Grassland CRP supports continued agricultural productivity while at the same time prioritizing private lands stewardship,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “By offering landowners the best of both worlds — economic viability and working lands preservation — Grassland CRP provisions support USDA’s commitment to Farmers First.”

CRP, USDA’s flagship conservation program, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. For four decades, CRP has provided financial and technical support to agricultural producers and landowners whose accepted acres are placed under contract for 10-15 years and who agree to voluntarily convert the land to beneficial vegetative cover to improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and support wildlife habitat. 

The American Relief Act, 2025, extended provisions for CRP through September 30, 2025.

Currently, more than 25.8 million acres are enrolled in CRP, with nearly 9.7 million acres in Grassland CRP. On May 12, FSA opened General and Continuous CRP enrollment for 2025. FSA is currently reviewing submitted offers and will announce accepted offers at a later date. Due to the 27-million-acre statutory cap, only 1.8 million acres are available for all CRP enrollment this fiscal year.

Landowners and producers interested in Grassland CRP should contact their local USDA Service Center to learn more or apply for the program before the Aug. 8 deadline.    

FSA helps America’s farmers, ranchers and forest landowners invest in, improve, protect and expand their agricultural operations through the delivery of agricultural programs for all Americans. FSA implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees. 

For more information, visit <a href="http://fsa.usda.gov">fsa.usda.gov</a>.

USDA officially opens enrollment for Grassland Conservation Reserve Program

A mobile home North West of Salina was completely destroyed due to a fire, as a man received 1st degree burns.

According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office on Monday, July 14th at around 5:30 pm, deputies received report about a house fire that occurred on 2625 N. Winchester Rd (N.W. of Salina). Sheriff deputies and Rural Fire District 3 immediately responded to the scene and extinguished the fire.

The residents were outside of the mobile home when the fire occurred.&nbsp;

Before the fire happened, the Sheriff's Office stated that the residents of the home 'had placed food on a barbecue grill in their backyard.' The residents then left the grill unattended for about 2 minutes and smelled a burning scent coming from the grill. When they came to check on it, the grill was in flames.

The fire from the grill then went towards the home and completely consumed it.

The residents were identified as Brian Bell (49), Lisa Bell (47) and two teenage boys (17 &amp; 13). Brian Bell received 1st degree burns to his forehead and was treated and released by Salina EMS. It was reported that Lisa Bell and the teenage boys did not receive any injuries.&nbsp;

Sheriff's Office stated, a cat that belonged to the residents went missing after the fire.

No loss of value was determined at this time.

Mobile home destroyed by fire in Saline County, man receives 1st degree burns

Local students listed among the over 500 Emporia State University graduates for the 2024-2025 school year.

The students who graduated that are from the local area of Salina/Saline County include students from Dickinson, Morris, Cloud, Mitchell, McPherson, Marion and Clay Counties who graduated include:

Lewis A Trotter of Abilene, Kansas, Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre .

Christine Daniell Wiegers of Beloit, Kansas, with a Education Specialist in School Psychology .

Evie M Johnson of Canton, Kansas, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre .

Kevin Claude Sage of Chapman, Kansas, Cum Laude with a B.S. in Business in Business Administration .

Dalton M Owen of Concordia, Kansas, Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Business in Business Administration .

Dom Noah Jackson of Gypsum, Kansas, Cum Laude with a B.S. in Education in Health and Physical Education and a minor in.

Rebekah Thompson of Gypsum, Kansas, with a Master of Science in Health, Physical Education &amp; Coaching .

Corbyn Dallas Jackson of Herington, Kansas, with a B.S. in Education in Physical Education .

Carrie Elizabeth Roe of Herington, Kansas, Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Education in Business .

Braedon Alec Mercer of Marion, Kansas, with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Leadership &amp; Recreation .

Marla "MO" Hawkinson of McPherson, Kansas, with a Master of Science in Elementary Education .

Emma Nicole Wilson of McPherson, Kansas, Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Education in Elementary Education .

Luke James Gleason of Salina, Kansas, with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance and a minor in.

Ellie Grauerholz of Salina, Kansas, Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Education in Elementary Education .

Maddison J Craig of Wakefield, Kansas, Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Business in Business Administration .

For more information about Emporia State University, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://email.meritpages.com/ss/c/u001._-OPS4e3A9I_9r190n7YE4IEMQLe03DvzvPm0kZ3L6E/4i7/oDc2yQKRRdy0md3bizOI9w/h0/h001.VWSTZaFjs5GLmcMWEPMAAap4zLBUpGbH4qOGnzDeM7M">www.emporia.edu</a>.

Local county students among 2025 ESU graduates list, two from Salina 

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this morning that they have acquired infielder/outfielder&nbsp;Adam Frazier&nbsp;from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder&nbsp;Cam Devanney.

Frazier, 33, has played in 78 games (63 starts) for the Pirates this season, slashing .255/.318/.336 (60-for-235) with 17 walks, 10 doubles, 21 RBI and 22 runs scored. He’s batting .310 (27-for-87) with runners on base, including a .289 clip (13-for-45) with runners in scoring position.

He’s made starts at second base (47), left field (12) and right field (4) with the Pirates this year, and over the course of his 10-year Major League career, he’s appeared at every position except pitcher and catcher.

Frazier returns to Kansas City, where he spent the entire 2024 season and played in 104 games for the Royals, while reaching base safely in 46 of his 72 starts. He won Major League Baseball’s Electric Play of the Week Award for&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1785048515506315358" target="_blank">his play on April 26, 2024</a>&nbsp;in Detroit, where he robbed&nbsp;Parker Meadows&nbsp;of a home run at the right field fence, before throwing out&nbsp;Javier Báez&nbsp;at first base to turn the double play.

He’s spent most of his time playing second base, however, as his 673 games played as a second baseman since the start of 2019 are the 4th most in the Majors, behind only&nbsp;Ozzie Albies&nbsp;(749),&nbsp;Jose Altuve&nbsp;(715) and&nbsp;Marcus Semien&nbsp;(712). His .989 fielding percentage at second base during that span is tied for the 2nd-best rate in the Majors, trailing just Albies (.990).

Royals acquire Adam Frazier from Pittsburgh

ATLANTA (AP) — Kyle Schwarber was nervous.

He had played in Game 7 of the World Series, homered for the United States in the World Baseball Classic.

But he had never walked up to the plate in an All-Star Game swing-off.

“That’s kind of like the baseball version of a shootout,” he said after homering on all three of his swings, going down to his left knee on the final one, to overcome a two-homer deficit. That held up when Jonathan Aranda fell short on the American League’s final three swings, giving the National League a 4-3 swing-off win after a 6-6 tie Tuesday night in which it wasted a six-run, seventh-inning lead.

Schwarber earned the MVP award, going 0 for 2 with a walk as the NL won for the second time in its last 12 tries. He became the first non-pitcher MVP without a hit.

“It will be interesting to see where that goes,” said AL manager Aaron Boone of the New York Yankees. “There’s probably a world where you could see that in the future, where maybe it’s in some regular season mix. I wouldn’t be surprised if people start talking about it like that.”

Concerned about running out of pitchers in an era where no All-Star throws more than one inning,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-sports-new-york-mets-brian-snitker-38d3dc0ea869992ebcab83a4ef4c960b">Major League Baseball and the players’ association made the change in 2022</a>.

In baseball’s equivalent of soccer’s penalty-kicks shootout, the game was decided by having three batters from each league take three swings each off coaches.

Boone picked Brent Rooker, Randy Arozarena and Aranda on Monday, and Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts picked Eugenio Suárez, Schwarber and Pete Alonso for the NL. Because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eugenio-suarez-allstar-game-3a86937e6a6e74ade4399711717f1f9b">Suárez was hit</a>&nbsp;on the left hand by a fastball in the eighth inning, the NL turned to its alternate, Kyle Stowers.

Players from both teams stood outside their dugouts, some already in street clothes, jumping and shouting after each long ball from their side. Yankees coach Travis Chapman threw to the AL batters and Dodgers coach Dino Ebel to the NL hitters.

Rooker put the AL ahead by homering on his last two swings, and Stowers hit one. Randy Arozarena boosted the AL lead to 3-1.

Ebel had thrown BP to Schwarber two years ago at the WBC.

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