Two men were hospitalized after an argument over a puppy turned violent.

According to Salina Police Captain James Feldman, on Tuesday, May 6th officers arrived to a residence in the 700 block of N. 8th. Allegedly, a 34-year old man reported that him and his roomate identified as Jeramy Hassler, got into an argument over the care of puppy.

The 34-year old male stated that the argument became violent, when Hassler took him to the ground and started to impede his breathing by applying pressure to his neck. The man was able to grab a nearby rubber mallet and used it to strike Hassler in the head, which released himself.

Afterwards, the 34-year old man called police and upon arrival both men were transported to Salina Regional Health Center for minor injuries.&nbsp;

Further investigation determined that Hassler would be booked into the Saline County Jail for Aggravated Domestic Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574094885919.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTTwo men were hospitalized after an argument over a puppy turned violent.According to Salina Police Captain James Feldman, on Tuesday, May 6th officers arrived to a residence in the 700 block of N. 8th. Allegedly, a 34-year old man reported that him and his roomate identified as Jeramy Hassler, got into an argument over the care of puppy.The 34-year old male stated that the argument became violent, when Hassler took him to the ground and started to impede his breathing by applying pressure to his neck. The man was able to grab a nearby rubber mallet and used it to strike Hassler in the head, which released himself.Afterwards, the 34-year old man called police and upon arrival both men were transported to Salina Regional Health Center for minor injuries.&nbsp;Further investigation determined that Hassler would be booked into the Saline County Jail for Aggravated Domestic Battery.

Argument Over Puppy Turns Violent 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Three advocacy organizations filed a lawsuit Monday in Douglas County District Court challenging the Kansas Legislature’s attempt to “arbitrarily” reject advance ballots of voters if the mail system fails to deliver them by Election Day.&nbsp;

Kansas Appleseed, Loud Light and Disability Rights Center of Kansas are asking the court to find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb4/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 4</a>&nbsp;unconstitutional. Defendants are Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab and Douglas County Clerk Jamie Shew.

SB 4, which the Legislature passed this year, disqualifies any mail-in ballots not received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Previously, mail-in ballots were counted if they were postmarked by Election Day and arrived within three days later.

Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed SB4 but that veto was overturned in both chambers, with votes falling along party lines.

In a statement, the three advocacy organizations called SB 4 a “deliberate and unconstitutional assault on Kansans’ fundamental right to vote.”

“This reckless law carelessly disregards the realities of postal delivery delays, which will disproportionately harm rural, elderly, and disabled voters,” the statement said. “Furthermore, this law deliberately undermines the will of Kansas voters who have increasingly chosen to vote by mail in recent election cycles.”&nbsp;

In the lawsuit, the advocacy organizations make a point that Kansans have been voting by mail ever since the Civil War. In 2017, the Legislature recognized that mail-in ballots arriving late deprived voters of their right to vote, and they instituted the three-day grace period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During legislative debate on SB4, former Rep. Ann Mah, a Topeka Democrat, called the bill “pure partisan politics.” Statistics show&nbsp;<a href="https://elections-blog.mit.edu/articles/how-policy-influenced-partisan-divide-over-voting-mail" target="_blank">far more Democrats than Republicans use mail-in ballots</a>, and she noted the bill’s lack of funding for an education program that would inform citizens of the change.

More Democratic votes would be rejected than Republican votes, Mah said.

“If you make this change and do not fund an education program, you’re intentionally causing thousands of votes to be thrown out,” she said. “That’s voter suppression.”

The lawsuit said 32,000 mail-in ballots were received after Election Day in the 2020 general election during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the 2024 general election, 2,110 ballots arrived during the grace period.

In Douglas County, Shew said he rejected more than 200 ballots in the Aug. 6, 2024, primary for arriving after the grace period, even though they were postmarked in July, the lawsuit said.

“SB 4’s threat of disenfranchisement is particularly acute for some of Kansas’s most vulnerable populations,” the lawsuit said. “The elderly and Kansans with disabilities often have little to no choice but to vote by mail. And rural voters and voters who are temporarily out-of-state, such as many college students, will also be disproportionately affected because their mail is less likely to be delivered in a timely manner.”

The lawsuit said the state of Kansas mails its ballots just 20 days before elections, unlike other states that send them out 30-45 days in advance. Kansas ties with Iowa as the two states with the shortest turnaround time, the filing said.

SB4 is unconstitutional because it violates the equal protection clause that bans the state from arbitrarily rejecting voters’ ballots based on their geography and whether the post office did its job effectively, the lawsuit said.

“Its due process clause requires that Kansas establish adequate procedures to ensure that voters have a reliable, fair, and effective method to cast their ballots,” it said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720316487639.png" alt="A lawsuit filed May 5, 2025, is challenging a Senate Bill 4 that eliminated the 3-day grace period for mail-in ballots.-Post photo" />
 <figcaption>A lawsuit filed May 5, 2025, is challenging a Senate Bill 4 that eliminated the 3-day grace period for mail-in ballots.-Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Three advocacy organizations filed a lawsuit Monday in Douglas County District Court challenging the Kansas Legislature’s attempt to “arbitrarily” reject advance ballots of voters if the mail system fails to deliver them by Election Day.&nbsp;Kansas Appleseed, Loud Light and Disability Rights Center of Kansas are asking the court to find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb4/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 4</a>&nbsp;unconstitutional. Defendants are Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab and Douglas County Clerk Jamie Shew.SB 4, which the Legislature passed this year, disqualifies any mail-in ballots not received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Previously, mail-in ballots were counted if they were postmarked by Election Day and arrived within three days later.Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed SB4 but that veto was overturned in both chambers, with votes falling along party lines.In a statement, the three advocacy organizations called SB 4 a “deliberate and unconstitutional assault on Kansans’ fundamental right to vote.”“This reckless law carelessly disregards the realities of postal delivery delays, which will disproportionately harm rural, elderly, and disabled voters,” the statement said. “Furthermore, this law deliberately undermines the will of Kansas voters who have increasingly chosen to vote by mail in recent election cycles.”&nbsp;In the lawsuit, the advocacy organizations make a point that Kansans have been voting by mail ever since the Civil War. In 2017, the Legislature recognized that mail-in ballots arriving late deprived voters of their right to vote, and they instituted the three-day grace period.&nbsp;&nbsp;During legislative debate on SB4, former Rep. Ann Mah, a Topeka Democrat, called the bill “pure partisan politics.” Statistics show&nbsp;<a href="https://elections-blog.mit.edu/articles/how-policy-influenced-partisan-divide-over-voting-mail" target="_blank">far more Democrats than Republicans use mail-in ballots</a>, and she noted the bill’s lack of funding for an education program that would inform citizens of the change.More Democratic votes would be rejected than Republican votes, Mah said.“If you make this change and do not fund an education program, you’re intentionally causing thousands of votes to be thrown out,” she said. “That’s voter suppression.”The lawsuit said 32,000 mail-in ballots were received after Election Day in the 2020 general election during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the 2024 general election, 2,110 ballots arrived during the grace period.In Douglas County, Shew said he rejected more than 200 ballots in the Aug. 6, 2024, primary for arriving after the grace period, even though they were postmarked in July, the lawsuit said.“SB 4’s threat of disenfranchisement is particularly acute for some of Kansas’s most vulnerable populations,” the lawsuit said. “The elderly and Kansans with disabilities often have little to no choice but to vote by mail. And rural voters and voters who are temporarily out-of-state, such as many college students, will also be disproportionately affected because their mail is less likely to be delivered in a timely manner.”The lawsuit said the state of Kansas mails its ballots just 20 days before elections, unlike other states that send them out 30-45 days in advance. Kansas ties with Iowa as the two states with the shortest turnaround time, the filing said.SB4 is unconstitutional because it violates the equal protection clause that bans the state from arbitrarily rejecting voters’ ballots based on their geography and whether the post office did its job effectively, the lawsuit said.“Its due process clause requires that Kansas establish adequate procedures to ensure that voters have a reliable, fair, and effective method to cast their ballots,” it said.

Lawsuit challenges ‘unconstitutional’ Kansas law cutting grace period for mail-in ballots

Candidate Doug Billings wants to implement DOGE framework in Topeka

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Conservative podcaster and MAGA enthusiast Doug Billings is the lone person to formally file as a candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination for governor in 2026.

Billings, not a household name in Kansas politics, said in an interview Monday that he was a reluctant candidate in a GOP field that could grow substantially as Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Senate President Ty Masterson, state Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, former Gov. Jeff Colyer, former Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte O’Hara and others make decisions to join the ballot or stay on the sideline. No Democrat has officially entered the race.

“The truth is, honest to God, I don’t want to run,” Billings said. “We need a strong conservative governor in that office. We need a politician who’s going to tell the truth.”

Billings, who worked in human resources before starting “The Right Side” podcast five years ago in Olathe, said he would implement at the state level the federal DOGE framework embraced by President Donald Trump and adviser Elon Musk. He said the state’s economy would flourish by cutting unnecessary spending and by diminishing income and businesses taxes, including the potentially unconstitutional property tax.

“Through the Kansas Department of Government Efficiency, I will root out fraud, waste and bureaucracy across state agencies,” he said.

Targets of his budget ax would include administrative costs in public schools, fraud in poverty and unemployment benefit programs, transportation project cost overruns, ill-advised economic development incentives and operational inefficiency in prisons. He vowed to scan state agencies large and small for waste.

Billings said his Catholic values required that he provide leadership in the movement to curtail abortion rights in Kansas. He would expand the state’s support for anti-abortion pregnancy resource centers and faith-based adoption agencies as well as enact policies reflecting a “shared commitment to the dignity of every human life.” At minimum, he said, the state ought to enact and enforce a law forbidding abortion after detection of a fetal heartbeat.

The Kansas Supreme Court declared a woman’s decision to terminate a pregnancy a fundamental right anchored in the Bill of Rights of the Kansas Constitution. In 2022, voters in Kansas rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have nullified the state Supreme Court’s opinion on abortion. Abortion remains legal in Kansas despite the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide.

Billings said he would strive as governor to restore Christian values that inspired the nation’s Founding Fathers and to breath new life into founding documents written by those men. He said school classes would start with a moment of private prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, which would reinforce “our unity under God.”

“Kansas must return to its roots as a society grounded in faith, morality and reverence for God,” he said. “Not as a theocracy, but as a republic that honors its Christian heritage with pride and conviction.”

He said his administration would be a bulwark against attempts to erode the “God-given” right to bear arms. He would oppose burdensome regulations, excessive fees and bureaucratic red tape that infringed on the ability of law-abiding citizens to possess firearms.

Diversity, equity and inclusion programs or “woke” agendas in K-12 schools would be eliminated to avoid advocacy for “divisive ideologies,” Billings said. The state should invest tax dollars in ways that supported decisions of parents to send their children to public, private or home schools, he said.

In terms of election security, Billings said he would order the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to launch inquiries into past election “irregularities” and decisions that undercut election fraud investigations.

Secretary of State Schwab, who said he would run for the GOP nomination for governor, has repeatedly contended Kansas elections were fair and accurate. However, Billings said “anyone telling you that we don’t have election integrity issues in Kansas is either vastly uninformed or is lying to you.”

“I will work to eliminate electronic voting machines, which are vulnerable to manipulation and erode public confidence,” Billings said. “In their place, I will implement watermarked paper ballots.”

In January, Schwab was the first Republican to confirm plans to seek the August 2026 nomination for governor. He was elected the state’s top election official in 2018 and won reelection in 2022. He served 14 years in the Kansas House representing an Olathe district. In March, Schwab said he had been diagnosed with cancer in the lung. He said the cancer was detected at an early stage and surgery would be relied on to combat the health threat.

Schwab said his campaign would concentrate on necessity of the state to bring property assessments and taxation under control. He expressed alarm the 2025 Legislature did little to moderate state property tax collections, despite bipartisan promises after the 2024 session to tackle the issue.

“When it came time to lead, both the governor and leadership came up short,” he said.

O’Hara, a former Johnson County Commission member and one-term Kansas House member, said in February that she would campaign for governor because it was time to have a “true, proven conservative” leading the Republican supermajority in the Legislature. She vowed to deal with wasteful state spending and “ludicrous corporate welfare” in the form of business subsidies, ban DEI in government institutions and “get schools back on track.”

“I cannot stand silent and watch small businesses and homeowners be destroyed through high property taxes or watch our children drown in the sewer of wokeism in our schools,” she said.

O’Hara lost a 2024 reelection campaign for county commission to a Democrat after objecting to COVID-19 restrictions and opposing vaccination mandates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746542160693.png" alt=" Doug Billings, a conservative podcaster and MAGA champion, stands as the only formal candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination to find a replacement for term-limited Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2026. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Billings’ podcast)" />
 <figcaption> Doug Billings, a conservative podcaster and MAGA champion, stands as the only formal candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination to find a replacement for term-limited Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2026. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Billings’ podcast)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Candidate Doug Billings wants to implement DOGE framework in Topeka</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Conservative podcaster and MAGA enthusiast Doug Billings is the lone person to formally file as a candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination for governor in 2026.Billings, not a household name in Kansas politics, said in an interview Monday that he was a reluctant candidate in a GOP field that could grow substantially as Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Senate President Ty Masterson, state Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, former Gov. Jeff Colyer, former Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte O’Hara and others make decisions to join the ballot or stay on the sideline. No Democrat has officially entered the race.“The truth is, honest to God, I don’t want to run,” Billings said. “We need a strong conservative governor in that office. We need a politician who’s going to tell the truth.”Billings, who worked in human resources before starting “The Right Side” podcast five years ago in Olathe, said he would implement at the state level the federal DOGE framework embraced by President Donald Trump and adviser Elon Musk. He said the state’s economy would flourish by cutting unnecessary spending and by diminishing income and businesses taxes, including the potentially unconstitutional property tax.“Through the Kansas Department of Government Efficiency, I will root out fraud, waste and bureaucracy across state agencies,” he said.Targets of his budget ax would include administrative costs in public schools, fraud in poverty and unemployment benefit programs, transportation project cost overruns, ill-advised economic development incentives and operational inefficiency in prisons. He vowed to scan state agencies large and small for waste.Billings said his Catholic values required that he provide leadership in the movement to curtail abortion rights in Kansas. He would expand the state’s support for anti-abortion pregnancy resource centers and faith-based adoption agencies as well as enact policies reflecting a “shared commitment to the dignity of every human life.” At minimum, he said, the state ought to enact and enforce a law forbidding abortion after detection of a fetal heartbeat.The Kansas Supreme Court declared a woman’s decision to terminate a pregnancy a fundamental right anchored in the Bill of Rights of the Kansas Constitution. In 2022, voters in Kansas rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have nullified the state Supreme Court’s opinion on abortion. Abortion remains legal in Kansas despite the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide.<h2>God, guns, voting</h2>Billings said he would strive as governor to restore Christian values that inspired the nation’s Founding Fathers and to breath new life into founding documents written by those men. He said school classes would start with a moment of private prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, which would reinforce “our unity under God.”“Kansas must return to its roots as a society grounded in faith, morality and reverence for God,” he said. “Not as a theocracy, but as a republic that honors its Christian heritage with pride and conviction.”He said his administration would be a bulwark against attempts to erode the “God-given” right to bear arms. He would oppose burdensome regulations, excessive fees and bureaucratic red tape that infringed on the ability of law-abiding citizens to possess firearms.Diversity, equity and inclusion programs or “woke” agendas in K-12 schools would be eliminated to avoid advocacy for “divisive ideologies,” Billings said. The state should invest tax dollars in ways that supported decisions of parents to send their children to public, private or home schools, he said.In terms of election security, Billings said he would order the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to launch inquiries into past election “irregularities” and decisions that undercut election fraud investigations.Secretary of State Schwab, who said he would run for the GOP nomination for governor, has repeatedly contended Kansas elections were fair and accurate. However, Billings said “anyone telling you that we don’t have election integrity issues in Kansas is either vastly uninformed or is lying to you.”“I will work to eliminate electronic voting machines, which are vulnerable to manipulation and erode public confidence,” Billings said. “In their place, I will implement watermarked paper ballots.”<h2>Schwab, O’Hara</h2>In January, Schwab was the first Republican to confirm plans to seek the August 2026 nomination for governor. He was elected the state’s top election official in 2018 and won reelection in 2022. He served 14 years in the Kansas House representing an Olathe district. In March, Schwab said he had been diagnosed with cancer in the lung. He said the cancer was detected at an early stage and surgery would be relied on to combat the health threat.Schwab said his campaign would concentrate on necessity of the state to bring property assessments and taxation under control. He expressed alarm the 2025 Legislature did little to moderate state property tax collections, despite bipartisan promises after the 2024 session to tackle the issue.“When it came time to lead, both the governor and leadership came up short,” he said.O’Hara, a former Johnson County Commission member and one-term Kansas House member, said in February that she would campaign for governor because it was time to have a “true, proven conservative” leading the Republican supermajority in the Legislature. She vowed to deal with wasteful state spending and “ludicrous corporate welfare” in the form of business subsidies, ban DEI in government institutions and “get schools back on track.”“I cannot stand silent and watch small businesses and homeowners be destroyed through high property taxes or watch our children drown in the sewer of wokeism in our schools,” she said.O’Hara lost a 2024 reelection campaign for county commission to a Democrat after objecting to COVID-19 restrictions and opposing vaccination mandates.

Kansas podcaster seeks GOP gubernatorial nomination to copy Trump crusade at state level

SALINA — Police are investigating a reported accidental shooting in Salina.

Just after 6:30.m. Monday, police were dispatched to Salina Regional Health Center in reference a report of an accidental shooting, according to Salina Police Officer James Feldman.

Police made contact with a 25-year-old Salina man who had an apparent gunshot to his foot. 

Through the investigation it was learned the man had gone to the 1500 block of Osborne at about 6:00 AM to speak with a known associate. While outside, the two&nbsp; began verbally arguing when they bumped each other and a gun the second subject was holding went off and shot the man in the foot. 

Another associate of the injured man drove him to the hospital. He was admitted to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

SALINA — Police are investigating a reported accidental shooting in Salina.Just after 6:30.m. Monday, police were dispatched to Salina Regional Health Center in reference a report of an accidental shooting, according to Salina Police Officer James Feldman.Police made contact with a 25-year-old Salina man who had an apparent gunshot to his foot. Through the investigation it was learned the man had gone to the 1500 block of Osborne at about 6:00 AM to speak with a known associate. While outside, the two&nbsp; began verbally arguing when they bumped each other and a gun the second subject was holding went off and shot the man in the foot. Another associate of the injured man drove him to the hospital. He was admitted to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Salina police investigate reported accidental shooting

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;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hansen, Matthew Edwin Lloyd

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

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Navarro-Fields, Maliya Lee

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct, Distrib heroin/certain stim/fentanyl; &lt; 1 gram, Driving While Suspended, No Proof Of Insurance, Poss para w/intent to manuf/plant/cult, Poss of substance in KSA 65-4105(h), N/A No seat belt, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746533114284.png" alt="Hall, Ronnie Vallee" />
 <figcaption>Hall, Ronnie Vallee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hall, Ronnie ValleeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746533171484.png" alt="Hansen, Matthew Edwin Lloyd" />
 <figcaption>Hansen, Matthew Edwin Lloyd</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hansen, Matthew Edwin LloydREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746533262567.png" alt="Navarro-Fields, Maliya Lee" />
 <figcaption>Navarro-Fields, Maliya Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Navarro-Fields, Maliya LeeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct, Distrib heroin/certain stim/fentanyl; &lt; 1 gram, Driving While Suspended, No Proof Of Insurance, Poss para w/intent to manuf/plant/cult, Poss of substance in KSA 65-4105(h), N/A No seat belt, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746533344368.png" alt="Owens, Ashley Renee" />
 <figcaption>Owens, Ashley Renee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Owens, Ashley ReneeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 6

The City of Salina announced the acquisition of the Sculpture Tour Salina People's Choice Award winner, "Going Home," by distinguished artist Sondra L. Jonson. This exquisite bronze sculpture now enhances Salina’s public art collection.

"Going Home" has captured the hearts of many and will soon find its permanent residence at the Saline County War Memorial in Sunset Park, a symbolic and fitting environment to complement its subject matter. Currently, the sculpture can be visited at the Smoky Hill Museum, located at 211 W Iron Ave, Salina, KS. Please visit the museum front desk to enjoy this magnificent piece.

Smoky Hill Museum Hours Tuesday to Friday from 11 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM

On May 3rd, SculptureTour Salina unveiled 24 new sculptures during the UNwrap Party organized by the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Salina Downtown, Inc., and Visit Salina. Community members are encouraged to participate in a self-guided walking tour, where they can explore the sculptures and cast their votes for their favorite artwork in the People’s Choice Award program. Voting ballots can be found at mid-block crosswalks and various local downtown venues. The People’s Choice Award voting continues until December 31, 2025, allowing ample time to engage with these inspired works of art.

For needed accommodations, please call Amanda Morris at Salina Arts &amp; Humanities at 785-309-5770 between 8:00 a.m. - Noon and 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Every effort will be made to accommodate known disabilities. For material or speech access, please call at least five working days prior to the event.

Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, a department of the City of Salina, has served a unique role as an arts advocate and resource partner since 1966. The Smoky Hill River

Festival, Horizons Grants Program, Smoky Hill Museum, Arts Infusion Program in schools, Community Art &amp; Design, and Creative Connections are among the programs of Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, located at 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746528988072.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe City of Salina announced the acquisition of the Sculpture Tour Salina People's Choice Award winner, "Going Home," by distinguished artist Sondra L. Jonson. This exquisite bronze sculpture now enhances Salina’s public art collection."Going Home" has captured the hearts of many and will soon find its permanent residence at the Saline County War Memorial in Sunset Park, a symbolic and fitting environment to complement its subject matter. Currently, the sculpture can be visited at the Smoky Hill Museum, located at 211 W Iron Ave, Salina, KS. Please visit the museum front desk to enjoy this magnificent piece.Smoky Hill Museum Hours Tuesday to Friday from 11 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PMOn May 3rd, SculptureTour Salina unveiled 24 new sculptures during the UNwrap Party organized by the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Salina Downtown, Inc., and Visit Salina. Community members are encouraged to participate in a self-guided walking tour, where they can explore the sculptures and cast their votes for their favorite artwork in the People’s Choice Award program. Voting ballots can be found at mid-block crosswalks and various local downtown venues. The People’s Choice Award voting continues until December 31, 2025, allowing ample time to engage with these inspired works of art.For needed accommodations, please call Amanda Morris at Salina Arts &amp; Humanities at 785-309-5770 between 8:00 a.m. - Noon and 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Every effort will be made to accommodate known disabilities. For material or speech access, please call at least five working days prior to the event.Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, a department of the City of Salina, has served a unique role as an arts advocate and resource partner since 1966. The Smoky Hill RiverFestival, Horizons Grants Program, Smoky Hill Museum, Arts Infusion Program in schools, Community Art &amp; Design, and Creative Connections are among the programs of Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, located at 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina.

Smoky Hill Museum temporarily houses new People's Choice purchase 

Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/">Climate Resilient Cereals Innovation Lab</a>&nbsp;continues work after federal funding resumed earlier this month.

The innovation lab aims to help double the world's food supply by 2050 through crop production improvements for four of the world's most important cereals: sorghum, millet, wheat and rice. All four crops are grown in the United States, and more than 50% of sorghum is grown in Kansas.

"K-State's innovation lab is helping bolster American agriculture by creating crops that are resistant to drought and disease," said U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran. "I appreciate Secretary Rubio for recognizing the importance of the work being done at Kansas State University and supporting the continuation of this program. Kansans, Americans and individuals around the world face a brighter future due to the work being done at K-State to help feed the world."

The innovation lab collaborates with U.S. and international partners to advance the breeding of these cereal crops to be more resistant to heat, drought, insects and disease, with the goal of making farmers more prosperous.

"This work is vital to the success of American and international agricultural production," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/about/dalton.html">Timothy Dalton</a>, professor of agricultural economics and interim director of the innovation lab. "The work we are doing ultimately results in grains that are more tolerant to real-world challenges farmers are facing now."

Researchers are using the latest technologies — including phenotyping with uncrewed aerial drones, next-generation DNA sequencing and genotyping, AI-assisted crop modeling and simulations, and speed breeding — in projects around the world.

Dalton said the international partnerships allow for testing crops in conditions similar to U.S. farmers' current and forecast challenges. In Asia, rice varieties are studied for resistance to rice blast, a fungal disease. Through this work, new rice varieties will be available for farmers in the southern U.S. Wheat and sorghum yields will be improved through testing in some of the hottest and driest regions of the world bordering the Sahara Desert.

"We're searching for scientific advances to make crops stronger and food production more reliable and safer," Dalton said. "This makes farmers here in Kansas and in partner nations more prosperous and ready to meet global food needs far into the future."

The funding is for the collaborative, interdisciplinary research to improve these four crops. K-State's collaborative partners are the University of Florida, Texas A&amp;M University, Texas Tech University, Purdue University, Cornell University, Louisiana State University, Clemson University, and national agricultural research systems in Senegal, Ethiopia and Bangladesh.

"Thank you to Senator Moran and his team for their dedicated efforts in supporting and ensuring the continuation of this important research at Kansas State University," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "Advancing agricultural innovation and ensuring resilient crop production are critical priorities for global food and national security."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743088206929.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>K-STATE NEWS AND COMMUNICATIONS&nbsp;Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/">Climate Resilient Cereals Innovation Lab</a>&nbsp;continues work after federal funding resumed earlier this month.The innovation lab aims to help double the world's food supply by 2050 through crop production improvements for four of the world's most important cereals: sorghum, millet, wheat and rice. All four crops are grown in the United States, and more than 50% of sorghum is grown in Kansas."K-State's innovation lab is helping bolster American agriculture by creating crops that are resistant to drought and disease," said U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran. "I appreciate Secretary Rubio for recognizing the importance of the work being done at Kansas State University and supporting the continuation of this program. Kansans, Americans and individuals around the world face a brighter future due to the work being done at K-State to help feed the world."The innovation lab collaborates with U.S. and international partners to advance the breeding of these cereal crops to be more resistant to heat, drought, insects and disease, with the goal of making farmers more prosperous."This work is vital to the success of American and international agricultural production," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/about/dalton.html">Timothy Dalton</a>, professor of agricultural economics and interim director of the innovation lab. "The work we are doing ultimately results in grains that are more tolerant to real-world challenges farmers are facing now."Researchers are using the latest technologies — including phenotyping with uncrewed aerial drones, next-generation DNA sequencing and genotyping, AI-assisted crop modeling and simulations, and speed breeding — in projects around the world.Dalton said the international partnerships allow for testing crops in conditions similar to U.S. farmers' current and forecast challenges. In Asia, rice varieties are studied for resistance to rice blast, a fungal disease. Through this work, new rice varieties will be available for farmers in the southern U.S. Wheat and sorghum yields will be improved through testing in some of the hottest and driest regions of the world bordering the Sahara Desert."We're searching for scientific advances to make crops stronger and food production more reliable and safer," Dalton said. "This makes farmers here in Kansas and in partner nations more prosperous and ready to meet global food needs far into the future."The funding is for the collaborative, interdisciplinary research to improve these four crops. K-State's collaborative partners are the University of Florida, Texas A&amp;M University, Texas Tech University, Purdue University, Cornell University, Louisiana State University, Clemson University, and national agricultural research systems in Senegal, Ethiopia and Bangladesh."Thank you to Senator Moran and his team for their dedicated efforts in supporting and ensuring the continuation of this important research at Kansas State University," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "Advancing agricultural innovation and ensuring resilient crop production are critical priorities for global food and national security."

K-State lab resumes work on world's top crops

SALINA,— William Bohrer, Salina, is the recipient of the 2024-2025 Cash Hollistah Scholarship.&nbsp;

Bohrer, a senior at&nbsp;Salina Central High School, has a 4.0 GPA, and has been involved with the Salina Symphony&nbsp;and the Salina Art Center&nbsp;as an attendant and occasional teacher.&nbsp;

Bohrer, a member of Salina Central's Choraliers, is also the leader of Salina Central's drum corps.&nbsp;For the past two years, Bohrer has earned several awards for his&nbsp;drawings and 3-D designs at the regional Scholastic Art Awards program in Wichita. 

Bohrer will attend Wichita State University in the fall, pursuing degrees in Art &amp; Psychology.

The cash hollistah. scholarship, presented by Ad Astra Books &amp; Coffee House, is awarded to a graduating senior in central Kansas who show merit in the field of community enrichment through poetry, music, art or design. <a href="https://adastrabooksandcof.wixsite.com/thecashscholarship">Click here for</a> more information the scholarship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746468865545.png" alt="William Bohrer- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>William Bohrer- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSALINA,— William Bohrer, Salina, is the recipient of the 2024-2025 Cash Hollistah Scholarship.&nbsp;Bohrer, a senior at&nbsp;Salina Central High School, has a 4.0 GPA, and has been involved with the Salina Symphony&nbsp;and the Salina Art Center&nbsp;as an attendant and occasional teacher.&nbsp;Bohrer, a member of Salina Central's Choraliers, is also the leader of Salina Central's drum corps.&nbsp;For the past two years, Bohrer has earned several awards for his&nbsp;drawings and 3-D designs at the regional Scholastic Art Awards program in Wichita. Bohrer will attend Wichita State University in the fall, pursuing degrees in Art &amp; Psychology.The cash hollistah. scholarship, presented by Ad Astra Books &amp; Coffee House, is awarded to a graduating senior in central Kansas who show merit in the field of community enrichment through poetry, music, art or design. <a href="https://adastrabooksandcof.wixsite.com/thecashscholarship">Click here for</a> more information the scholarship.

Salina Central student recipient of the Cash Hollistah Scholarship

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor, Transporting an open container and Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Driving While Suspended, Failure to appear and No Proof Of Insurance

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Munson, Nico Robert Wolf

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Moreno Sanchez, Jose Angel

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor and Operate a MV w/o a valid license

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Millett, Alexandria Kaila Michelle

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;McCarter, Christopher Lee

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Theft of property lost or mislaid; Value less than $1,000

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746446881400.png" alt="Wagner, Amy Christine" />
 <figcaption>Wagner, Amy Christine</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Wagner, Amy ChristineREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor, Transporting an open container and Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746446941533.png" alt="Redmond, Diego Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Redmond, Diego Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Redmond, Diego JosephREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Driving While Suspended, Failure to appear and No Proof Of Insurance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746446995067.png" alt=" Munson, Nico Robert Wolf" />
 <figcaption> Munson, Nico Robert Wolf</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Munson, Nico Robert WolfREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746447053533.png" alt="Moreno Sanchez, Jose Angel" />
 <figcaption>Moreno Sanchez, Jose Angel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Moreno Sanchez, Jose AngelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor and Operate a MV w/o a valid license<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746447116283.png" alt="Millett, Alexandria Kaila Michelle" />
 <figcaption>Millett, Alexandria Kaila Michelle</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Millett, Alexandria Kaila MichelleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746447161567.png" alt="McCarter, Christopher Lee" />
 <figcaption>McCarter, Christopher Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;McCarter, Christopher LeeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746447206816.png" alt="Haden, Ryan Matthew" />
 <figcaption>Haden, Ryan Matthew</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Haden, Ryan MatthewREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Driving While Suspended<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746447255683.png" alt="Deckert, Jacob Lee" />
 <figcaption>Deckert, Jacob Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Deckert, Jacob LeeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Theft of property lost or mislaid; Value less than $1,000<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746447380507.png" alt="Askew, Richard Thomas" />
 <figcaption>Askew, Richard Thomas</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Askew, Richard ThomasREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 5

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A water task force meant to ensure the “precious resource is available for generations to come” received its first members this week.

The 16-member panel of Republican and Democratic legislators, state officials and a handful of appointees from both parties will craft policy changes in an effort to evaluate Kansas’ current and future water supply, funding efforts for water projects and potential impacts on the state’s economy.

Republicans announced their appointments Wednesday, which included an official from utility company Evergy, an environmental consultant and the manager of a public groundwater management district in northwest Kansas.

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican said these members are experts in the field with intricate understandings of water issues.

“Water is the essence of life, the foundation upon which Kansas thrives — sustaining our fields, fueling our communities, and nourishing our future — and truly runs through every decision we make, from agriculture to economic development,” Masterson said.

The task force was born out of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2172/" target="_blank">House Bill 2172</a>, which passed the Senate in March with unanimous bipartisan support and the House with eight Republicans voting against it. The bill had no opponents in committee hearings.

The task force’s water policy recommendations will begin with a preliminary report due by the end of January and end with a final report that must be submitted to the governor and the Legislature by the end of January 2027.

Within the next two months, the task force members must appoint people to a subgroup that would be responsible for modernizing the State Water Resources Planning Act.

The subgroup’s members must be attorneys, engineers, hydrologists, natural resource planners or others with experience with Kansas water issues, according to the legislation.

First passed in 1963 and revamped in the 1980s, the State Water Resources Planning Act and the State Water Plan guide Kansas water management, conservation and development efforts. With drought becoming increasingly apparent in western and central Kansas, including the depletion of the High Plains Aquifer, the task force will address the state’s current and future water needs.

A focus on agriculture and industry is especially important, said House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican.

“To say water is vital to Kansas agriculture, business, and communities would be an understatement, and the input from this Task Force will be key to ensuring this precious resource is available for generations to come,” he said in a Thursday news release.

Gov. Laura Kelly, in her own news release distributed upon signing the task force bill into law in April, said the task force enables lawmakers to evaluate risks to Kansas’ water quality and quantity through a funded, bipartisan group.

“Developing a comprehensive, long-term, and sustainable water program is long overdue and a significant step forward in ensuring Kansas’ water supply is preserved for generations to come,” she said.

Republican leadership’s appointees included three Republican legislators; Jared Morrison, director of Evergy’s water and waste programs; Kansas Chamber board chair Karma Mason; and Shannon Kenyon, the manager of Groundwater Management District No. 4 in northwest Kansas.

Democratic leadership on Tuesday appointed Josh Svaty, a former state legislator and former state agriculture secretary, and Heidi Mehl, the Kansas director of water and agriculture for the Nature Conservancy, an international environmental organization.

The task force also will include three nonvoting members from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas Water Office and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746442435069.png" alt=" A dog keeps watch over an irrigated field in southwest Kansas, where farmers are facing increased pressure from state lawmakers to preserve groundwater in the quickly depleting Ogallala Aquifer. (Kevin Hardy/Stateline)" />
 <figcaption> A dog keeps watch over an irrigated field in southwest Kansas, where farmers are facing increased pressure from state lawmakers to preserve groundwater in the quickly depleting Ogallala Aquifer. (Kevin Hardy/Stateline)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A water task force meant to ensure the “precious resource is available for generations to come” received its first members this week.The 16-member panel of Republican and Democratic legislators, state officials and a handful of appointees from both parties will craft policy changes in an effort to evaluate Kansas’ current and future water supply, funding efforts for water projects and potential impacts on the state’s economy.Republicans announced their appointments Wednesday, which included an official from utility company Evergy, an environmental consultant and the manager of a public groundwater management district in northwest Kansas.Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican said these members are experts in the field with intricate understandings of water issues.“Water is the essence of life, the foundation upon which Kansas thrives — sustaining our fields, fueling our communities, and nourishing our future — and truly runs through every decision we make, from agriculture to economic development,” Masterson said.The task force was born out of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2172/" target="_blank">House Bill 2172</a>, which passed the Senate in March with unanimous bipartisan support and the House with eight Republicans voting against it. The bill had no opponents in committee hearings.The task force’s water policy recommendations will begin with a preliminary report due by the end of January and end with a final report that must be submitted to the governor and the Legislature by the end of January 2027.Within the next two months, the task force members must appoint people to a subgroup that would be responsible for modernizing the State Water Resources Planning Act.The subgroup’s members must be attorneys, engineers, hydrologists, natural resource planners or others with experience with Kansas water issues, according to the legislation.First passed in 1963 and revamped in the 1980s, the State Water Resources Planning Act and the State Water Plan guide Kansas water management, conservation and development efforts. With drought becoming increasingly apparent in western and central Kansas, including the depletion of the High Plains Aquifer, the task force will address the state’s current and future water needs.A focus on agriculture and industry is especially important, said House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican.“To say water is vital to Kansas agriculture, business, and communities would be an understatement, and the input from this Task Force will be key to ensuring this precious resource is available for generations to come,” he said in a Thursday news release.Gov. Laura Kelly, in her own news release distributed upon signing the task force bill into law in April, said the task force enables lawmakers to evaluate risks to Kansas’ water quality and quantity through a funded, bipartisan group.“Developing a comprehensive, long-term, and sustainable water program is long overdue and a significant step forward in ensuring Kansas’ water supply is preserved for generations to come,” she said.Republican leadership’s appointees included three Republican legislators; Jared Morrison, director of Evergy’s water and waste programs; Kansas Chamber board chair Karma Mason; and Shannon Kenyon, the manager of Groundwater Management District No. 4 in northwest Kansas.Democratic leadership on Tuesday appointed Josh Svaty, a former state legislator and former state agriculture secretary, and Heidi Mehl, the Kansas director of water and agriculture for the Nature Conservancy, an international environmental organization.The task force also will include three nonvoting members from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas Water Office and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Kansas water task force to gauge current and future supply, modernize policy

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—A Kansas man died in a small plane crash just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1946 Piper Fixed Wing aircraft piloted by&nbsp;Thompson, Ronnie D.&nbsp;Thompson, 77, Goddard, was flying from Lucas back to Wichita.

Witness told the patrol the plane went down for no apparent reason near 4th Road and Avenue D, two miles east of Kansas 232.&nbsp; Thompson was pronounced&nbsp; dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Parsons Funeral Home.&nbsp; The FAA and NTSB will investigate the incident.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—A Kansas man died in a small plane crash just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1946 Piper Fixed Wing aircraft piloted by&nbsp;Thompson, Ronnie D.&nbsp;Thompson, 77, Goddard, was flying from Lucas back to Wichita.Witness told the patrol the plane went down for no apparent reason near 4th Road and Avenue D, two miles east of Kansas 232.&nbsp; Thompson was pronounced&nbsp; dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Parsons Funeral Home.&nbsp; The FAA and NTSB will investigate the incident.

Kansas man dies in small plane crash

On May 5, 2025, Smoky Hill Construction will begin installing a new water main along Meadow Lane between Fairdale Road and Hilldale Road. The intersection of Meadow Lane and Fairdale Road and the intersection of Meadow Lane and Hilldale Road will be reduced to one lane traffic. Sections of Meadow Lane will also be reduced to one lane traffic during construction. This phase of the project is expected to last two months and be completed by June 30, 2025, weather permitting.

Appropriate barriers will be in place to ensure the safety of workers. Motorists may encounter minor delays and are encouraged to avoid work zones when possible.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746193335989.png" alt="Image cty of Salina" />
 <figcaption>Image cty of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>On May 5, 2025, Smoky Hill Construction will begin installing a new water main along Meadow Lane between Fairdale Road and Hilldale Road. The intersection of Meadow Lane and Fairdale Road and the intersection of Meadow Lane and Hilldale Road will be reduced to one lane traffic. Sections of Meadow Lane will also be reduced to one lane traffic during construction. This phase of the project is expected to last two months and be completed by June 30, 2025, weather permitting.Appropriate barriers will be in place to ensure the safety of workers. Motorists may encounter minor delays and are encouraged to avoid work zones when possible.For additional information contact the City of Salina Utilities Department at (785) 309-5725

New water main construction to begin Monday 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/29/kansas-medicaid-advocates-share-dire-forecast-of-potential-congressional-funding-cuts/">Kansas Reflector</a>

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a>TOPEKA — Analysis of potential congressional cuts to Medicaid indicated Kansas’ loss of nearly $350 million in the first year and more than $3 billion over 10 years could shrink coverage for vulnerable populations, escalate family medical debt and raise the risk of hospital closures.

Reductions in federal financing of Medicaid could lead to downsizing by 5% to 15% the number of Medicaid enrollees in Kansas and trigger a decline of 22% in Medicaid funding to hospitals in the state. Kansas has two-dozen rural hospitals at risk of immediate closure. Shrinking federal funding to Medicaid could add to the burden of uncompensated patient care and threaten hospitals operating on narrow margins.

The findings were in a report released Tuesday by REACH Healthcare Foundation and United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, both health-related philanthropies serving Kansans. The report incorporated analysis from Manatt Health, which provides strategic, policy and legal advisory services in the health care industry.

Impetus for the projections was upcoming debate in Congress on a goal of cutting $880 billion in federal spending on Medicaid in the next decade.

“The data is clear and deeply concerning,” said David Jordan, president and CEO of United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. “We will all pay the price — higher costs, increases in local taxes and less access to care — to offset these cuts. It’s critical that lawmakers, health care providers, advocates and the people of Kansas recognize the consequences before it’s too late.”

United Methodist Health Ministry Fund is a statewide foundation that has worked since 1986 to improve the health of Kansans.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program offering health coverage to lower-income Kansas children, seniors, people with disabilities and pregnant women. Medicaid enrolls 366,000 Kansans, including 31% of the state’s children. Medicaid supports four of seven nursing home residents in Kansas as well as one in four working-age adults in the state who have a disability, the report said.

There is interest among congressional Republicans in adopting a national work requirement for recipients of Medicaid. The Kansas Medicaid program, known as KanCare, doesn’t extend coverage to working-age adults regardless of income unless the recipient was a parent, caregiver or a person with a disability.

“Medicaid is the largest source of federal funds in Kansas and any cuts to the program will have severe economic and health impacts felt in every corner of the state,” said Brenda Sharpe, president and CEO of REACH Healthcare Foundation.

REACH is a charitable organization striving to improve access to quality, affordable care for uninsured and medically underserved residents of Johnson, Wyandotte and Allen counties in Kansas and Jackson, Cass and Lafayette counties in Missouri.

Manatt Health relied on computer modeling to produce one-year and 10-year projections for Medicaid based on the idea of reducing federal expenditures by $880 billion within a decade. The work by Manatt Health was released before Congress completed work on spending adjustments, but the assessment aligned with policy parameters, options and effective dates outlined by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020801947.jpeg" alt="REACH Healthcare Foundation and United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, health-related philanthropies serving Kansans, said potential cuts in federal spending on Medicaid could slash health coverage of low-income Kansans and threaten financially struggling hospitals.&nbsp; Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>REACH Healthcare Foundation and United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, health-related philanthropies serving Kansans, said potential cuts in federal spending on Medicaid could slash health coverage of low-income Kansans and threaten financially struggling hospitals.&nbsp; Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/29/kansas-medicaid-advocates-share-dire-forecast-of-potential-congressional-funding-cuts/">Kansas Reflector</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a>TOPEKA — Analysis of potential congressional cuts to Medicaid indicated Kansas’ loss of nearly $350 million in the first year and more than $3 billion over 10 years could shrink coverage for vulnerable populations, escalate family medical debt and raise the risk of hospital closures.Reductions in federal financing of Medicaid could lead to downsizing by 5% to 15% the number of Medicaid enrollees in Kansas and trigger a decline of 22% in Medicaid funding to hospitals in the state. Kansas has two-dozen rural hospitals at risk of immediate closure. Shrinking federal funding to Medicaid could add to the burden of uncompensated patient care and threaten hospitals operating on narrow margins.The findings were in a report released Tuesday by REACH Healthcare Foundation and United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, both health-related philanthropies serving Kansans. The report incorporated analysis from Manatt Health, which provides strategic, policy and legal advisory services in the health care industry.Impetus for the projections was upcoming debate in Congress on a goal of cutting $880 billion in federal spending on Medicaid in the next decade.“The data is clear and deeply concerning,” said David Jordan, president and CEO of United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. “We will all pay the price — higher costs, increases in local taxes and less access to care — to offset these cuts. It’s critical that lawmakers, health care providers, advocates and the people of Kansas recognize the consequences before it’s too late.”United Methodist Health Ministry Fund is a statewide foundation that has worked since 1986 to improve the health of Kansans.Medicaid is a joint federal and state program offering health coverage to lower-income Kansas children, seniors, people with disabilities and pregnant women. Medicaid enrolls 366,000 Kansans, including 31% of the state’s children. Medicaid supports four of seven nursing home residents in Kansas as well as one in four working-age adults in the state who have a disability, the report said.There is interest among congressional Republicans in adopting a national work requirement for recipients of Medicaid. The Kansas Medicaid program, known as KanCare, doesn’t extend coverage to working-age adults regardless of income unless the recipient was a parent, caregiver or a person with a disability.“Medicaid is the largest source of federal funds in Kansas and any cuts to the program will have severe economic and health impacts felt in every corner of the state,” said Brenda Sharpe, president and CEO of REACH Healthcare Foundation.REACH is a charitable organization striving to improve access to quality, affordable care for uninsured and medically underserved residents of Johnson, Wyandotte and Allen counties in Kansas and Jackson, Cass and Lafayette counties in Missouri.Manatt Health relied on computer modeling to produce one-year and 10-year projections for Medicaid based on the idea of reducing federal expenditures by $880 billion within a decade. The work by Manatt Health was released before Congress completed work on spending adjustments, but the assessment aligned with policy parameters, options and effective dates outlined by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

Kansas Medicaid advocates share dire forecast of potential congressional funding cuts

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Endangering a child

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Burr, Alan Virgil

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Hekele, Caleb Michael

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity, No Proof Of Insurance, Possess of firearm while under the influence and Speeding; maximum limits

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of property lost or mislaid; Value $1,000 to $25,000

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Morales, Carlito Luis

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Vaughns, Courtney Lashay

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Weathers, Miles Benmount

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746363554308.png" alt="Warren, Jessica Mari" />
 <figcaption>Warren, Jessica Mari</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Warren, Jessica MariREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Endangering a child<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746363599842.png" alt="Burr, Alan Virgil" />
 <figcaption>Burr, Alan Virgil</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Burr, Alan VirgilREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Viol protection order; Pre-trial order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746363665907.png" alt="Hekele, Caleb Michael" />
 <figcaption>Hekele, Caleb Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Hekele, Caleb MichaelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity, No Proof Of Insurance, Possess of firearm while under the influence and Speeding; maximum limits<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746363725608.png" alt="Lepon, Les Paul" />
 <figcaption>Lepon, Les Paul</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Lepon, Les PaulREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of property lost or mislaid; Value $1,000 to $25,000<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746363791857.png" alt="Morales, Carlito Luis" />
 <figcaption>Morales, Carlito Luis</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Morales, Carlito LuisREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743083458008.jpeg" alt="Vaughns, Courtney Lashay" />
 <figcaption>Vaughns, Courtney Lashay</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Vaughns, Courtney LashayREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746363884057.png" alt="Weathers, Miles Benmount" />
 <figcaption>Weathers, Miles Benmount</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Weathers, Miles BenmountREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 4

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas House Democrats are hitting the road this summer for their inaugural Fight Back Tour, a statewide initiative aimed at engaging directly with residents, addressing community concerns and sharing their legislative vision for the future.

The tour is set to kick off Thursday, May 29, in Topeka and will feature Democratic lawmakers traveling across Kansas to meet with constituents, highlight policy priorities and advocate for the rights and opportunities of working families.

“This tour is about showing up and fighting back against the extremism we’re seeing at all levels of government, but especially in Topeka,” said House Democratic Leader Brandon Woodard. “The Kansas House Democrats are committed to listening to Kansans who are not feeling heard right now and taking action.”

Throughout the summer, House Democrats will collaborate with local county parties, stakeholders and advocacy groups in each stop to facilitate conversations and build coalitions. The initiative aims to elevate voices from all corners of the state and ensure that lawmakers remain connected to the concerns of their communities.

Fight Back Tour Dates and Locations: May 29 – Topeka, KS June 5 – Wichita, KS June 6 – Newton, KS June 20 – Hutchinson, KS June 21 – Abilene, KS July 18 – Garden City, KS July 19 – Dodge City, KS July 24 – Pittsburg, KS August 15 – Hays, KS August 21 – Kansas City, KS August 28 – Leavenworth, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746330093886.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas House Democrats are hitting the road this summer for their inaugural Fight Back Tour, a statewide initiative aimed at engaging directly with residents, addressing community concerns and sharing their legislative vision for the future.The tour is set to kick off Thursday, May 29, in Topeka and will feature Democratic lawmakers traveling across Kansas to meet with constituents, highlight policy priorities and advocate for the rights and opportunities of working families.“This tour is about showing up and fighting back against the extremism we’re seeing at all levels of government, but especially in Topeka,” said House Democratic Leader Brandon Woodard. “The Kansas House Democrats are committed to listening to Kansans who are not feeling heard right now and taking action.”Throughout the summer, House Democrats will collaborate with local county parties, stakeholders and advocacy groups in each stop to facilitate conversations and build coalitions. The initiative aims to elevate voices from all corners of the state and ensure that lawmakers remain connected to the concerns of their communities. Fight Back Tour Dates and Locations: May 29 – Topeka, KS June 5 – Wichita, KS June 6 – Newton, KS June 20 – Hutchinson, KS June 21 – Abilene, KS July 18 – Garden City, KS July 19 – Dodge City, KS July 24 – Pittsburg, KS August 15 – Hays, KS August 21 – Kansas City, KS August 28 – Leavenworth, KS

Kansas House Democrats to hold inaugural Fight Back Tour

Minneapolis — Central Kansas Mental Health Center and the Ottawa County Health Department invite the public to Roots of Resilience: A Rural Mental Health Gathering on Saturday, June 7 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Minneapolis Public Library Meeting Room, 519 Delia Ave.

This free community event is designed to spark open conversation, reduce stigma, and connect individuals in rural and farming communities with tools and resources for mental health and suicide prevention. Whether you're a farmer, rancher, business owner, parent, or neighbor, all are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion.

The event will feature inspiring presentations and a panel of local experts:

1:30 PM — “A Call to Action” with Isabelle Blackwood, Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLinK)

Nationally recognized youth advocate Isabelle Blackwood shares her powerful story and leadership in suicide prevention, especially in farming communities.

3:00 PM — "Weathering the Storm in Agriculture" with Rebecca McFarland, K-State Extension

Extension veteran and farm stress specialist Rebecca McFarland offers practical strategies for recognizing and managing stress in agricultural life.

Representatives from the Ottawa County Health Department, CKMHC, and NAMI will highlight local behavioral health services, prevention programs, and community supports.

Attendees that live in Ottawa and Lincoln counties will receive a $30 grocery card as a thank-you for participating. All are welcome, registration is encouraged but not required.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Gretchen Boyum at gboyum@ckmhc.org or call 785-515-6139.

Minneapolis — Central Kansas Mental Health Center and the Ottawa County Health Department invite the public to Roots of Resilience: A Rural Mental Health Gathering on Saturday, June 7 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Minneapolis Public Library Meeting Room, 519 Delia Ave.This free community event is designed to spark open conversation, reduce stigma, and connect individuals in rural and farming communities with tools and resources for mental health and suicide prevention. Whether you're a farmer, rancher, business owner, parent, or neighbor, all are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion.The event will feature inspiring presentations and a panel of local experts:1:30 PM — “A Call to Action” with Isabelle Blackwood, Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLinK)Nationally recognized youth advocate Isabelle Blackwood shares her powerful story and leadership in suicide prevention, especially in farming communities.3:00 PM — "Weathering the Storm in Agriculture" with Rebecca McFarland, K-State ExtensionExtension veteran and farm stress specialist Rebecca McFarland offers practical strategies for recognizing and managing stress in agricultural life.4:15 PM — Community Resource PanelRepresentatives from the Ottawa County Health Department, CKMHC, and NAMI will highlight local behavioral health services, prevention programs, and community supports.Attendees that live in Ottawa and Lincoln counties will receive a $30 grocery card as a thank-you for participating. All are welcome, registration is encouraged but not required.For more information or to RSVP, contact Gretchen Boyum at gboyum@ckmhc.org or call 785-515-6139.

Rural mental health gathering set for June 7, in Minneapolis

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+ and Operate a MV w/o a valid license

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Gantenbein, Eli Vincent

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal restraint, Domestic Battery: rude physical contact and Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;McCann, Braeden Paul

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Weis, Steven Howard&nbsp;

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Aggravated robbery, Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Driving While Suspended, Murder in the 2nd degree; Unknown circumstance, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746288235276.png" alt="Castruita, Mario" />
 <figcaption>Castruita, Mario</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Castruita, MarioREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+ and Operate a MV w/o a valid license<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746288286610.png" alt="Gantenbein, Eli Vincent" />
 <figcaption>Gantenbein, Eli Vincent</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Gantenbein, Eli VincentREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal restraint, Domestic Battery: rude physical contact and Viol protection order; Pre-trial order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746288334276.png" alt="McCann, Braeden Paul" />
 <figcaption>McCann, Braeden Paul</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;McCann, Braeden PaulREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746325526219.png" alt="Weis, Steven Howard" />
 <figcaption>Weis, Steven Howard</figcaption>
 </figure> NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Weis, Steven Howard&nbsp;REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Aggravated robbery, Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Driving While Suspended, Murder in the 2nd degree; Unknown circumstance, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 3

On April 26, members of the Smoky View 4-H club both competed in the Spring Beef Classic show at the Salina Fairgrounds, and hosted the concession stand to raise money for the club. 

Club members had to arrive early to prepare their animals, as well as to prepare food items that would be available for breakfast and lunch at the concession stand. Items offered included: breakfast burritos, cinnamon rolls, walking tacos, and pretzels with cheese.

Bristol Isaacson, 5th grader at Southeast of Saline and Smoky View member, enjoys working at the concession stand because, “I love to cook the ingredients and wrap up the breakfast burritos. It is a lot of fun!” Fundraising helps members learn new skills and the money raised helps the club fund activities throughout the year.&nbsp;

Four Smoky View club members participated in the beef show with their animals. They had to arrive early in order to bathe and groom their steers and heifers, as well as get themselves ready to enter the show ring. When asked about what he likes about caring for his steer, Gunner Cloyd, Smoky Valley 5th grader and Smoky View member, said, “washing and walking him. I also enjoy feeding him and getting him water.” 

There is so much time and energy that goes into taking care of these large animals to get them ready to show. Grace Cloyd, 7th grader at Smoky Valley and Smoky View member said, “I enjoy watching how much they grow.” These show animals can gain, on average, 400 pounds between their first weigh in, in March, to when they show at the end of the summer at the county fair.&nbsp;

Smoky View 4-H club members will be participating in the Tri Rivers Fair which starts July 31st.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746200146547.png" alt="Grace Cloyd showing her steer -submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Grace Cloyd showing her steer -submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Everett IsaacsonOn April 26, members of the Smoky View 4-H club both competed in the Spring Beef Classic show at the Salina Fairgrounds, and hosted the concession stand to raise money for the club. Club members had to arrive early to prepare their animals, as well as to prepare food items that would be available for breakfast and lunch at the concession stand. Items offered included: breakfast burritos, cinnamon rolls, walking tacos, and pretzels with cheese.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746200178346.png" alt="Photo - Smoky View Members in the concession stand from left to right: Bristol Isaacson, Blair Eppenbach, Hailey Isaacson, Camden Isaacson, Dean Isaacson, Everly Isaacson, Kenzie Isaacson, Everett Isaacson, Kora Swisher -submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Photo - Smoky View Members in the concession stand from left to right: Bristol Isaacson, Blair Eppenbach, Hailey Isaacson, Camden Isaacson, Dean Isaacson, Everly Isaacson, Kenzie Isaacson, Everett Isaacson, Kora Swisher -submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Bristol Isaacson, 5th grader at Southeast of Saline and Smoky View member, enjoys working at the concession stand because, “I love to cook the ingredients and wrap up the breakfast burritos. It is a lot of fun!” Fundraising helps members learn new skills and the money raised helps the club fund activities throughout the year.&nbsp;Four Smoky View club members participated in the beef show with their animals. They had to arrive early in order to bathe and groom their steers and heifers, as well as get themselves ready to enter the show ring. When asked about what he likes about caring for his steer, Gunner Cloyd, Smoky Valley 5th grader and Smoky View member, said, “washing and walking him. I also enjoy feeding him and getting him water.” There is so much time and energy that goes into taking care of these large animals to get them ready to show. Grace Cloyd, 7th grader at Smoky Valley and Smoky View member said, “I enjoy watching how much they grow.” These show animals can gain, on average, 400 pounds between their first weigh in, in March, to when they show at the end of the summer at the county fair.&nbsp;Smoky View 4-H club members will be participating in the Tri Rivers Fair which starts July 31st.&nbsp;

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